Toying around

PITSTOP

Toyota is all set to unveil new versions of two their important models at the upcoming Frankfurt Motor Show.

The original Yaris was designed and built to suit European tastes (although it is also sold in Latin America and Africa, among other places), and has been a consistent performer in the sales charts "" indeed, since its launch in 1999, it has been Toyota's best-selling European model.

The new Yaris, again designed at ED2, Toyota's European design studio, will aim to build on its predecessor's success and offer higher levels of comfort, quality and safety. Sales are expected to begin in January 2006.

The RAV4, which pioneered the soft-roader SUV segment 11 years ago, will be seen in its third generation in Frankfurt. It has been the best-selling 4x4 in Europe for the last four years, and the new model will (what else?) have more power, better interiors and more advanced technology. The RAV4 will be launched in the UK in spring 2006. And no, we won't get to see either model in India.

Three's company

TVS released a trio of new models at a function yesterday in Mumbai. The Victor Edge, a virtual clone of the original Victor, sports new decals, colour schemes and name badges.

The 124.8cc engine is in a slightly lower state of tune, putting out 9.2 bhp at 7500 rpm, but produces more torque (1 kgm at 6000 rpm) than the older Victor. TVS also claim better mid-range power and better ride and handling.

The Star City, an upgrade to the popular Star, sports a new headlight faring, new decals and new colours. Both mudguards are now made of plastic rather than metal, and switchgear has been upgraded as well. The bike gets a Keihin carburettor and roller-rocker arm followers, which should improve mileage, while peak power and torque remain the same.

The Scooty Pep Plus also gets new decals, plus a fluorescent key slot and a mobile phone charging point below the dashboard. The bored out engine now produces 87.8cc and 5 bhp at 6000 rpm, while modifications have been carried out in the variator.

Needle roller bearings have been added onto the rocker arms for better efficiency. The older models will continue to be available in TVS' line-up.