The future of Toyota and Lexus: Ch-Ch-Ch-Changes
In order to become the world's largest automaker you need a gameplan, and Toyota's apparently got one. AutoWeek has peered into its crystal ball and consulted each one of its inside sources to chart the changes at Toyota and Lexus over the next five years. Here's what they foresee for the Japanese juggernaut minus vehicles that have recently been introduced or substantially redesigned.
TOYOTA
- Prius – Redesign for 2010 or 2011 with plug-in capability, still odd looking
- Corolla – Redesign delayed until 2008 to combat Honda Civic and Mazda3
- Matrix – Redesign after Corolla in 2009, destination vehicle for Scion owners
- Camry Solara – Killed after 2008, coupe could return by 2010
- Supra – Not going to happen, all rumors to the contrary false
- Sienna – Redesign for spring 2009 with hybrid version
- Highlander – Redesign for 2008 on larger Avalon platform
- FT-SX – New large crossover for 2008 similar to Chrysler Pacifica
- Tundra – 2007 model arrives in January, heavy-duty versions possible
- Sequoia – Redesigned for 2008 on new Tundra platform
- Land Cruiser – Reengineered version arrives in 2008
[Source: AutoWeek]
LEXUS
- IS250/350 – Coupe variant for 2008 (What about the IS500?)
- LS460 – 2007 model about to bow with LS600hL hybrid version
- SC430 – Redesign in mid-2007 to compete with BMW 6-Series
- LF-A – Arrives late 2007, early 2008 with 500-hp V8
- RX350/400h – Redesign in early 2008 to compete with larger Acura MDX
- JX470 – For mid-2007 built off GS platform to compete with Infiniti FX35/45
- Small crossover – RAV4-based luxury mini-ute being considered
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