Toyota introduces Limited Edition Corolla Altis

Off late Toyota has been launching limited edition of its vehicles in India. The latest limited edition from Toyota is Corolla Altis limited edition. To remind our readers, Toyota earlier launched a limited edition Corolla Altis named Aero. Last month Toyota launched Aero edition of its MPV Innova. 

As most of the manufacturers launch limited edition of top end models, Toyota this time has done other way round. The limited edition of Corolla Altis is available in base Petrol and Diesel variants. The Corolla Altis limited edition gets following additional features -

New distinctive grill
Reprofiled rear combination lamps
Mildly modified rear bumper
Limited Edition badge
5.8 inch touchscreen audio system with Bluetooth connectivity
New four spoke steering wheel
Key less entry

All this features adds essence to the otherwise bare base petrol and diesel variants of Toyota Corolla Altis. The limited edition Corolla Altis marks 10 years anniversary of Corolla in India.

Distinctive Grill

Dashboard – Touchscreen and 4 spoke steering wheel

The new limited edition Toyota Corolla Altis is priced at Rs. 11.45 lakh for base petrol and Rs. 12.84 lakh for base diesel variant respectively (all prices ex-showroom, Mumbai).

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Toyota launches Innova Aero Edition

     Feeling the heat from its competitors, Toyota today launched a special edition of Innova MUV called ‘Aero Edition’. To remind you, couple of days back Nissan launched its Evalia MPV which is competitively price and surely going to eat Innova’s market share. The special Aero Edition comes with cosmetic upgrades and two new colour shades - Super White & Silver Mica Metallic.

     This is the second special edition of Innova by Toyota. Toyota earlier last year had launched a special edition of Innova named ‘Crysta’. The ‘Aero Edition’ is based on Innova GX which is available in both Euro 2 and 3 versions. Toyota recently launched an Aero edition of its Corolla Altis sedan. 

     The Cosmetic upgrades in ‘Aero Edition’ includes - body coloured side skirt, roof spoiler, dual tone front lip-spoiler and a rear bumper spoiler. The Innova Aero Edition is priced at Rs. 12.30 lakh (ex-showroom, New Delhi).

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Toyota Camry History

Nomenclature

Toyota Camry has been a highly successful vehicle in Toyota’s history. The story of Camry dates back to 1982 when the first generation Camry was launched. The name “Camry” has no meaning in the English dictionary, as it is derived from the Japanese word “Kanamuri”, which means “Crown”. Toyota incorporated this name in expectation that it would take the leadership in the mid-size passenger car market of the 80s, which it did rightly so. At present in 2011, the CAMRY has become one of Toyota’s most famous models, with a total of more than 14 million vehicles sold in more than 100 countries.

Birth of the Camry

Till late 70s and early 80s the mid-size passenger car market had rear wheel drive cars mainly dominated by Americans, Chevrolet Impala Ford Mustang were the famous cars then. These cars were not only big but were also fuel guzzlers. In around 1977, fuel restrictions and the second oil crisis, prompted automobile manufacturers worldwide to develop a compact front-engine, front-wheel drive (FF) vehicles. Toyota took this opportunity and started developing a FF car using all its technologies. The focus was mainly on the quality, durability and reliability and the result was the Camry, highly acclaimed around the world.

Generations of Camry

1^st Generation - 1982 to 1986

The first generation Camry was sold from 1982 to 1986 setting a standard in the mid-size passenger cars. The first gen Camry was built with reduced weight with front-engine front-wheel drive propeller shafts. The highlight of this car was impressive interiors and good driving dynamics.

2^st Generation – 1986 to 1991 

The 2nd generation set out to sweep away any tones of novelty and establish a world-class family sedan.

3^st Generation – 1991-1996 

The 3^rd generation Camry now had to compete with European brands such as BMW and Mercedes Benz which saw an opportunity and made refinements to create pioneering FF entry into the luxury sedans. But the 3^rd gen Camry had an advantage of smooth ride and a silent cabin.

4^th Generation – 1906 to 2001

Due to collapse of Japanese bubble economies, Japanese domestic market shifted towards light sport utility vehicle. A stronger yen allowed North American built Camry to realise its full potential.

5^th Generation –2001 to 2006

The 5^th generation Camry was designed to establish a new global benchmark and to suit the needs of the North American market. Features included a stylish new design, enhanced tactile quality and enlarged dimensions.

6^th Generation – 2006 to 2012

The 6th Gen Camry was developed with a concept of creating global benchmark for mid size sedans with a key word "Rejuvenation" It offered 3 defining selling points - A stylish design with spacious interior, outstanding safety performance, & refined driving dynamics. The aim of the 6th generation was to rejuvenate the brand and capture a younger audience.

Source: Toyota India Website

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Toyota Etios Liva gets beige interiors

     Toyota has upgraded its Etios Liva hatchback with beige interiors. Now the dashboard and door pads get beige treatment adding little bit of premium feel to the car.

     It has almost a year since Toyota launched the Etios Liva hatchback and as everyone expected the car to compete against the market leader Swift, it could not live up to the expectations. The main let back of the Etios twins was their shoddy interiors. The dashboard looked no better than a Alto and customers turned away with its looks thought it was built by a Toyota. Toyota has responded to the customer feedback with beige interiors which will please B Segment car buyers. 

     Though Toyota is responding to customer feedback we feel it lost a good opportunity with Etios in India. We guess the Japanese underestimated the Indian customer sentiment of buying a car thinking that, a not so good looking car with a good quality reputation of Toyota can sell well in spite of pricing it high. Hyundai has set a classic example of understanding the buyer’s sentiment. Off late Hyundai has launched some good looking cars in India and in spite of high price of ownership experience people are making a beeline to own a Hyundai. Verna, i20 and Eon are no better than its competitors but still well because of its design and functionality. We hope Toyota gets good market analyzer in India.

Picture Source: Indianautosblog

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New Toyota Camry launched in India, priced at Rs. 23. 8 Lakhs

     Toyota Kirloskar Motor Ltd. today launched the 7th Generation Camry in India priced at Rs. 23.8 lakh ex-showroom, New Delhi. The new Camry was spied some days ago while undergoing test run on Bangalore roads.

     Unlike the last generation Camry, the 7th Generation Camry will be assembled in India. The rupee depreciation and duty increase prometed Toyota to assemble the car in India. Toyota’s Bidadi plant becomes the 10th plant to manufacture the legendary Camry.

     The Camry has been a highly successful vehicle for Toyota. The Camry was first launched in Japan way back in 1982 and made its Indian debut in 2002. Since then 6500 units of Camry has hit Indian roads. Worldwide over 14 million Camrys has been sold and along with Corolla, Camry constitutes 60% of total Toyota sales.

     The major makets for Camry is the US and Middle East followed by Japan and Australia. However, the Camry could not make good sales in India, thanks to its high price. With the price of around Rs. 30 lakh, Camry lost its pace to Mercedes C Class, BMW 3 Series and Audi A4. Indian customers preferred German luxury brands rather than bland and bulky looking Camry. But things might change now as the Camry is assembled in India and hence will cost less compared to the previous model.

     The new Camry is powered by a new 2.5 liter petrol engine which produces 181 Ps @ 6000 rpm of power and 233 Nm @4100 rpm of torque. The engine is mated to a 6 Speed Automatic gearbox (Sequential shift). The new engine is more powerful and fuel efficient than the old 2.4L petrol engine. Currenty Toyota has no plans to launch a diesel powered Camry in India.

     The Camry is offered in 4 colour shades - Beige metallic, Attitude black, White pearl crystal shine and Silver metallic. Test drives and booking for the car begin from today at all Toyota dealerships.

New Toyota Camry Specifications & Features

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Toyota launches ‘Liva TRD Sportivo’ Limited Editon

     Celebrating the first anniversary of Etios Liva, Toyota Kirloskar Motor Ltd. has launched a Limited Edition variant of its Liva hatchback named ‘ Liva TRD Sportivo. Only 1200 units of Liva TRD Sportivo will be on sale. Bookings for the car have been started and will go on sale till October this year.

     The Liva TRD Sportivo is available in both petrol and diesel variants. The petrol model costs Rs. 5,23,692/- and diesel is priced at Rs. 6,32,281/- (all prices ex-showroom New Delhi). The Limited Edition Liva comes in two colour options – White and Ultramarine Blue.

The Liva TRD Limited Edition sports the following new features

1. TRD Designed Sporty Package - The Front Bumper Spoiler , Aerodynamic Side Skirt, Two-Tone Rear Bumper Spoiler and Two-Tone roof spoiler is designed by TRD,  Japan. This Aero package gives a distinct look and sporty appeal to the vehicle.

2. Smoked Alloy Wheels - Specially designed for the limited edition - the 15”-Alloy Wheels are given a “Gun-Metal” finish and it provides an aggressive and sporty look to the car.

3. Roof Ornament and Body Side Graphics - Enhances the overall exterior appeal of the Limited Edition.

4. Limited Edition Branding - The Limited edition is branded as “TRD Sportivo”. A high quality Chrome badge on the boot lid symbolizes Toyota Racing Development’s sporty appeal.

5. New Seat Fabric with “TRD Sportivo” logo and Silver Shift Knob

Enhance the interior appeal and adds a touch of “sportiness” to the interiors.

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All new Toyota Camry spied testing in India

     The next generation Toyota Camry which was showed at the Auto Expo 2012 was spied testing near Bangalore. Toyota hopes to regain the lost battle ground in the D+ segment with the launch of then the new Camry. The new Camry will be assembled at Toyota’s plant near Bidadi.

     The new Camry will be powered by a 2.5 Liter 4 cylinder DOHC 16 valve Dual VVT-i petrol engine. The engine pumps out 178 Bhp @ 6000 rpm. However the 268 Bhp 3.5 Liter V6 will not come to India.

Engine capacity and fuel options: 2.5 liter VVTi petrol
Transmission: 6-speed manual
Power: 178 HP at 6000 rpm
Torque: 230 Nm at 4100 rpm
Expected launch date: 14th march 2012
Expected price: Rs 17 to 21 lakh 

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Toyota to launch eight new compact models in emerging markets

     Japanese automotive giant Toyota Motor Corporation, seems to be bullish on the emerging markets like India, Brazil and China. It has plans to launch eight new compact models by the next 3 years and wants to account its 50% sales through these emerging markets.

     Toyota is currently the largest automobile manufacturer in the world. With strong competition from General Motors and Volkswagen, Toyota looks at emerging markets to create volumes to stay at the top.

     Toyota recently showed three compact car concepts at the 12^th Beijing Auto Show. The eight new models planned will be based on these concepts. The Toyota Dear Qin which is global strategic concept with its futuristic styling could change the Toyota’s design philosophy which till now was bland and boring. The production version of the models will look closer to the concept to stay in tune with the global design trends.

Having seen the success with its Etios series, Toyota is planning to ramp Etios production at its second plant at Bidadi from 1.2 lakh to 2.1 lakh units by early 2013. Expect Toyota to launch new cars in India on Dear Qin concepts very soon. 

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Toyota sells 1 lakh unit of Etios and Etios Liva in India

     Toyota Kirloskar Motor Ltd has annunched that it has sold 1 lakh units of Etios and Etios Liva cars in Inida. Etios series – sedan and Liva hatchback are cars aimed at mass volume market in India and Toyota feels it has achieved an important milestone.

     Toyota Etios sedan was launched in December 2010 and the Liva hatchback was launched in June 2011. Etios sedan sold 50,157 units in financial year 2011-12 to become the third largest selling car in its segment. 

     The Etios sedan and Liva hatchback were launched in petrol variants initially. After 6 months of launch, diesel variants came into the market which actually boosted the sales. The increasing petrol prices prompted customers to go for a diesel car and the long waiting period of Swift made Etios the obvious choice. The renowned Toyota quality and refined engine has played positive for the company in its first mass market venture. 

Sandeep Singh, Deputy Managing Director, Marketing, TKM added -

“We are delighted to touch the One Lakh mark. The number reflects how the Etios family has grown and how Etios and Etios Liva has become a household brand in India. Customers have owned and appreciated the vehicles and we are constantly incorporating their feedback to be able to serve them better. This is a small yet very important milestone in this large project that will place TKM on a higher pedestal in the global operations of Toyota.” Source: Wheelsunplugged

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Next Generation Toyota Innova launch by 2014

     According to sources Toyota is planning to launch a latest version Innova in India by the year 2014. Toyota in its vehicle policy has a product life cycle concept which ranges between 8 to 10 years. Since Innova is 7 years old after its launch in 2005, it is nearing the end of its product life cycle and hence need a replacement to stay competitive in the market. 

This is just an illustrated picture and not the original Innova 2014 

     In an emerging market like India, new launches are happening in a short span of time and a product life cycle of 8 to 10 years will be too long. Toyota will keep this aspect in the mind and reduce its product life cycle to launch latest models to stay in the competition. Like the old Swift which was a good looking vehicle underwent phasing out and gave way for the latest model which looks even better. No wonder the Swift is currently ruling the Indian car market.

     Toyota is expected to increase the length of the next generation Innova to create more space for the third row passengers. The interior trim, quality and design will improve to offer more space for the occupants. A new powerful engine is also expected for the new model. However there is no news of a Hybrid option, but Toyota will sure keep an option of Hybrid for its new Innova in future.

Picture source: Wheelosphere

Next Generation Innova 2014: What to expect?

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Toyota Corolla Altis on road Price in Bangalore

All prices wef & as of 17th March 2012 at Ravindu Toyota Bangalore

Toyota Corolla Altis Petrol on road Price in Bangalore


Toyota Corolla Altis 1.8J Petrol on road Price in Bangalore – Rs. 13,67,586/-


Toyota Corolla Altis 1.8G-MT Petrol on road Price in Bangalore – Rs. 16,06,401/-


Toyota Corolla Altis 1.8G-AT Petrol on road Price in Bangalore – Rs. 17,55,868/-


Toyota Corolla Altis 1.8GL Petrol on road Price in Bangalore – Rs. 17,78,377/-


Toyota Corolla Altis 1.8VL Petrol on road Price in Bangalore – Rs. 19,12,610/-


Toyota Corolla Altis Diesel on road Price in Bangalore


Toyota Corolla Altis DJ Diesel on road Price in Bangalore – Rs. 14,89,400/-


Toyota Corolla Altis DG Diesel on road Price in Bangalore – Rs. 17,29,976/-


Toyota Corolla Altis DGL Diesel on road Price in Bangalore – Rs. 18,85,102/-


Note: Prices prevailing at the time of delivery will be applicable irrespective of booking date.

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Toyota car dealers in Bangalore

Nandi Toyota (3S - Sales, Service & Parts Outlet)

Motor World Ltd, Sy 6/1,

6/1,Thalaghattapura,

Kanakpura Main Road,

Bangalore - 560 062

Phone : 91-080- 4043-1111

Fax : 91-080-2204-1100

Nandi Toyota Website

Nandi Toyota (3S - Sales, Service & Parts Outlet)

Motor World Ltd.

Onyx Center, #5, Museum Road,

Bangalore 560 001

Phone : 91-80-40381111

Fax : 91-80-40381100

Nandi Toyota Website 

Nandi Toyota (Body Paint Outlet)

Motor World Ltd.

Municipal No: 372/344/269,

Survey No: 69/5, Bommanahalli,

Bangalore-560068

Phone : 91-80-4909-1111

Appointment : +91-80-30276666

Helpline : +91-9845071693

Nandi Toyota Website 

Ravindu Toyota (3S - Sales, Service & Parts Outlet)

No 25, Chord Road

Rajajinagar Industrial Suburb

Opp. Iskon Temple

Bangalore-560022

Phone : 91-80-3011-1600

Fax : 91-80-3011-1611 / 1612

Appointment : 91-80-3011-1601 to 603

Helpline : +91-98451-96251

Ravindu Toyota Website

Ravindu Toyota (1S - Sales Outlet)
Vaswani Victoria

#30, Victoria Road, Bangalore-560 025

Phone : 91-80-4114-5115 / 2557-7201 to 205

Fax : 91-80-4114-5005

Ravindu Toyota Website 

Ravindu Motors Pvt Ltd. (1S - Sales Outlet)

No: 80/3, Bellandhur Village - Post.

Varthur Hobli, Marathahalli Ring Road,

Bangalore  - 560037

Phone : +91-80-30440000

Fax : +91-80-30440020

Helpline : +91 98451-96251

Ravindu Toyota Website 

Viva Toyota (3S - Sales, Service & Parts Outlet)

Viva Magna wheelers Pvt. Ltd.

Sy No.171/1, Hunasamaranahalli Village,

Jala Hobli, Bangalore North Taluk,

Bangalore-562157

Phone : +91-80-30553101

Fax : +91-80-30001005

Appointment : +91-80-30553151

Helpline : +91-80-30553100

Viva Toyota (2S - Service & Parts Outlet)

No 552/512, Maruti Nagar,

Kogilu Main Road, Yelahanka

Bangalore – 560064

Appointment : +91-80-30001050/1/2/3

Helpline : +91-7483080001

Viva Toyota (1S - Sales Outlet)

#30, Pride Quadra,

Bellary Main Road,

Hebbal, Bangalore – 560024

Phone : +91-80-30001000/1/2/3 / +91-99000-35300

Fax : +91-080-3000-1005

Appointment : +91-80-30001050/1/2/3

Helpline : +91-7483080001

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Toyota Innova and Fortuner facelift India launch at Auto Expo 2012

     Toyota will launch the facelifted Innova and Fortuner at the Auto Expo 2012. The facelifted Innova and Fortuner were spied testing on Bangalore roads few days ago. The Innova facelift includes changes in the headlamps, front bumper, grill and tail lamps. The head lamps are sharper now which extends further to the fenders. However there will be no change in the mechanicals. In the Fortuner again you see some cosmetic changes in the front and rear. The only change will be an addition of automatic transmission 4x2 variant.

     With these changes, Toyota wants to keep Innova and Fortuner look fresh to compete with new MUV/ SUV launches. Of late Toyota is feeling the heat from competitors especially from Mahindra. Mahindra launched XUV500 with a surprising price which is 5-6 lakh cheaper than the Fortuner.  With Chevrolet Maruti and Nissan coming up with new MUVs, the Innova dominance is put to test. But since Innova has proved its mettle it will be difficult for any new vehicle to compete with it. 

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2012 Toyota Camry spied in India

     If you think we are mentioning about the US spec Camry, you are wrong. Toyota is testing its next generation global model Camry in India. The spy pictures of the 2012 Camry was taken near Toyota’s plant in Bidadi, outskirts of Bangalore.

     The 2012 Camry looks very similar to the current model from its dimensions. However there will be some changes in the front and rear in the form of redesigned head and tail lamps, bumper and the grill. Interiors have also been tweaked to stay with the time.


     Expect the 2012 Camry to reach Toyota dealers by August 2012. We feel Toyota should come up with new pricing and marketing strategies to push Camry sales in India. The current Camry is priced too high and no wonder we see very little Camrys on Indian roads.


     Currently Toyota is focusing on positioning the Etios and Etios Liva in a suitable position as the segments they are in area already crowded. Since the B+ and entry level C segment is the most happening one, Toyota will divert its all attention on Etios twins rather than thinking much about Camry.

Picture Source: Indianautosblog

2012 Toyota Camry

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Toyota to export Etios and Etios Liva to South Africa from India

     Japanese automotive giant Toyota Motor Corporation will start exporting its Etios and Etios Liva cars to South Africa from India. The Etios concept was conceptualized keeping in mind the requirements of developing markets of which India was the main one. Hence Toyota maintains in Eitos ad campaigns saying “World’s First, India First”. The Etios exported from India will have little technical modifications to suit the local requirements in South Africa. Only petrol variants of Etios cars will be exported from India. 

     Toyota which has associated with Kirloskar Motors in India manufactures Etios and Etios Liva from its second plant which is situated next to the main plant at Bidadi, near Bangalore. The current production capacity of second plant is 80,000 untis which will be increased to 1,20,000 untis by 2012 and 2,10,000 units by 2013. The sheer volume speaks about Toyota’s seriousness about making Etios cars. 

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Toyota Etios and Etios Liva diesel launched in India

     Toyota has launched diesel variants of Etios and Etios Liva in India. The Etios and Etios Liva diesel prices starts from Rs 6.44 lakh and 5.54 lakh respectively (ex-showroom, New Delhi). Both Etios and Etios Liva diesel is powered by 1.4L D-4D engine.

     The 1.4L D-4D diesel engine powering the Etios and Etios Liva is the same one which propels Toyota’s bigger sedan Corolla Altis. But the engine used in Etios and Etios Liva has no Variable Geometry Turbo, but instead has a Fixed Geometry Turbo. Toyota has done so reduce the cost and increase the fuel efficiency of Etios and Etios Liva. According to Toyota, the Etios siblings deliver 23.57 Kmpl, certified by ARAI.




     The Etios sedan is available in 3 variants - D, VD and top-of-the-line VXD where as Etios Liva is available in 2 variants – GD and GD(SP). All the models available have Airbags, EBD and ABS as a standard feature.

Toyota Etios Liva Diesel Specficationns

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Toyota Etios user experience and complaints

     We came across the website myetios.com where in Etios owners have expressed their views and complaints. The author of the website Mr. Munish Ahuja in his article points out the cost saving factor of Toyota by not having a water gasket on the doors leads to lots of problems. Firstly there is chance of water leakage when it rains and Mr. Munish says, the absence of the gaskets will makes it convenient for insects, cockroaches, ants, spiders and lizards to get inside the vehicle as soon as the door is opened. A good thought which Toyota did not think. Secondly these gaskets will reduce the noise and vibrations inside the cabin, so without the gaskets Eitos is not quite enough as it should have been. Mr. Munish has demonstrated the vibrations of Etios in his video as well.

     Apart from the views of the author, there is lot of comments posted on the site. We feel the site is a must visit for not just Etios owners but to all who are planning to buy a car, not necessarily the Etios. Such user experience website will help the car buyers in making good decisions.

Source: myetios.com

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Toyota introduces Innova Crysta Limited Edition

     Toyota has intruded a Limited Editon version of its popular MUV Innova, named as Innova Crysta. Only 1000 units of Innova Crysta will be produced and sold. The Innova Crysta commands a premium of Rs. 1 lakh compared to top of the line V variant.

The Limited Edition Innova Crysta has following new features:


Smoked Alloy wheels
Body Graphics
Rear Roof Spoiler
Muffler Cutter
Dual Tone leather seat cover
Dark wood panel
Floor mats

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Toyota Etios diesel on test run, will be launched in September

     Toyota is already testing the Etios diesel in India. The recent AutocarIndia magazine has a picture of Etios diesel testing somewhere in Kerala. The Etios diesel is expected to be launched in September this year which is the time when the car sales will be on a high in India.

     Toyota Etios diesel will be powered by the same 1.4L diesel engine which also powers the Corolla Altis. The difference is, the diesel engine in Etios will not have variable turbo geometry, which means the Etios diesel will have power of 75 Bhp as compared to 87 Bhp of Corolla Altis. With 75 Bhp of power, the Etios diesel will have sufficient power to drive the car as Etios is much lighter than the Corolla diesel.


     The Etios diesel will be mainly tuned for fuel efficiency more than the performance and about the performance, who cares now as the fuel prices are rocketing. The Etios diesel will be priced Rs. 1 lakh more than the petrol model. After the launch of Etios diesel, Toyota will also launch the Etios Liva diesel soon.

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2012 Toyota Camry spied undisguised

     The 2012 Toyota Camry has been spied undisguised by KGP Photography. The new Camry was shot when it was out for a commercial.


     The 2012 Camry looks fresh with new exterior design. The head and tail lamps are sharper and remind us about the Honda’s futuristic design. However the grill looks to be very familiar with earlier Toyotas.

Source: Autoblog

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