Akio Toyoda’s latest project is a mystery wrapped in speculation. The two-seater sports car will be on display at the Tokyo Auto Salon next month without any teaser images or information about its identity.

Toyota has been playing coy with social media hints, suggesting that this could be an MR2 revival or something entirely new. Toyota’s chairman is known for his love of fun cars and motorsports heritage, making enthusiasts wonder what he’s got in store.

The GR Yaris M concept was previously shown at the Tokyo Auto Salon last year as a potential testbed for the G20E engine. This 2.0-liter turbocharged unit could power future Toyota sports models or even revive classic names like MR2 and Celica.

With Akio Toyoda’s history of bringing back beloved classics, such as the Supra after its brief hiatus, fans are excited to see what this mid-engine car will bring. Could it be a new era for Toyota’s sporty offerings?

This mystery project is a testament to Akio Toyoda’s legacy of bringing fun cars back into Toyota’s lineup. Fans can’t wait to see what this mid-engine marvel will bring when it finally makes its debut next month.

The post Toyota Chairman’s Mysterious Mid-Engine Sports Car Revealed Soon appeared first on Auto Global News – Global Car News & Reviews.

The fifth-generation Land Cruiser normally has 8.3 inches of ground clearance in its stock configuration but gains an extra seven inches thanks to Kuhl Racing’s custom suspension lift kit. This modification significantly enhances the vehicle’s off-road capabilities by allowing it to tackle rough terrain with ease.

With a set of 22-inch Verz DDR03 wheels, this Land Cruiser is fitted with massive 37-inch Yokohama Geolander M/T G003 tires that provide excellent traction and stability on challenging surfaces. These large rubber components are complemented by pipe fenders designed to prevent damage from rocks or other obstacles during off-road excursions.

Kuhl Racing also outfits the vehicle with several protective features, including front and rear bumper protectors and a skid plate to safeguard critical engine components against rock strikes. Additionally, it comes equipped with a roof carrier for carrying camping gear or additional supplies when venturing into remote areas.

Completing its off-road package is an impressive 40-inch LED light bar mounted on the front grille along with two rear wings—one attached above and one below the liftgate—for improved visibility during night-time driving conditions. While no powertrain modifications are mentioned, Toyota’s standard LC250 model already boasts a powerful hybrid system producing 326 horsepower.

While the Kuhl Racing Blocker Series Iron Build won’t be available for purchase anytime soon, it showcases what’s possible when pushing the boundaries of an already capable off-roader like the Toyota Land Cruiser.

The post Kuhl Racing’s Custom Land Cruiser Debuts with Off-Road Upgrades appeared first on Auto Global News – Global Car News & Reviews.

The new teaser from Gazoo Racing comes just weeks after renewed speculation around an MR2 revival. The company’s chairman Akio Toyoda often uses social media posts as a way to gauge public interest and test reactions before making official announcements.

Toyota has been expanding its GR lineup, which now includes the front-engined supercar GR GT alongside the 86 sports car and two three-cylinder hatchbacks for different markets. A mid-engine model would fit nicely into this range as a more affordable yet performance-focused option compared to existing models.

The timing of the teaser is significant given Toyota’s history at Tokyo Auto Salon, where it has used past shows to unveil major concepts that later turned into production vehicles. For example, last year’s show featured previews for what would become the GR GT supercar.

The upcoming reveal at Tokyo Auto Salon will provide more clarity on whether this new mid-engined sports car represents the long-awaited return of the MR2 or if it’s part of Toyota’s ongoing efforts to expand its GR lineup with unique offerings.

The post Toyota GR Teases New Mid-Engined Sports Car for Tokyo Auto Salon appeared first on Auto Global News – Global Car News & Reviews.

The Neo86 package brings back the nostalgic look of the AE86 Trueno, including pop-up headlights and widened fenders. The styling kit is set to hit the market soon after its debut at Tokyo Auto Salon 2026.

Result Japan’s kit includes a functional flat hood with pop-up headlights, reminiscent of the original car’s distinctive features. A black bumper houses yellow indicators and fog lamps, giving it an unmistakable late-twentieth-century vibe.

The Neo86 also showcases widened front and rear fenders emphasized by glossy black bolt-on extensions. It adds a chin spoiler and matching side skirts to complete its retro profile. The demo car wears black and white livery with eight-spoke alloy wheels, directly referencing the AE86’s original design.

Despite these changes, Result Japan has ensured that the body retains smooth curves typical of the Toyota 86 platform while adding a ducktail spoiler at the rear along with aftermarket LED taillights. Twin exhaust pipes are framed by a reshaped bumper to enhance its overall theme.

Result Japan’s Neo86 styling kit offers a way for Toyota GR 86 owners to pay homage to the AE86 Trueno while retaining modern performance capabilities. It brings back nostalgic elements without compromising on contemporary design.

The post Result Japan Rolls Out AE86-Inspired Kit for Toyota GR 86 at Tokyo Auto Salon appeared first on Auto Global News – Global Car News & Reviews.

Elon Musk isn’t one to shy away from big announcements. He boldly declared at the start of this year that his company’s SUV, the Tesla Model Y, was the world’s best-selling car in 2025. But while it sounds impressive, there aren’t any numbers backing up this claim yet.

According to preliminary reports by several analysts, the Toyota RAV4 might actually be leading with over a million registrations globally. The Model Y is expected to come third with around one million units sold, which would represent an 12.7% drop from previous years’ sales figures.

The Tesla Model Y has been on top for two consecutive years now after becoming the first electric vehicle ever to do so in 2023. But will it hold onto its crown this year? We won’t know until all the data is analyzed and published by industry experts later this month.

While Musk’s declaration might sound exciting, we need concrete evidence before jumping on board with his claims. For now, let’s wait for those definitive reports to come out so everyone can see exactly how these cars stacked up against each other in 2025.

In the end, we all want to know who really came out on top in 2025. Until then, let’s keep an open mind about these claims and wait for the official data before making any final judgments.

The post Is the Tesla Model Y Really World’s Best-Selling Car in 2025? appeared first on Auto Global News – Global Car News & Reviews.

The 2026 Toyota HiLux is a bit of an enigma. Is it really new, or just another iteration? The answer lies somewhere in between. While there are noticeable changes on the outside with its bold grille and sleeker lines, much of what made the previous generation great remains intact.

Inside, the cabin feels more modern thanks to updated materials and a better-looking dashboard. But for some buyers, the rear seat space is still a bit cramped. And let’s not forget about that tricky-to-use infotainment system; it’s definitely an area where Toyota could improve.

The mechanical underpinnings of this HiLux are largely unchanged from its predecessor. The same solid feel and reliable performance you’ve come to expect remain, but the addition of mild-hybrid technology means better fuel efficiency for those long hauls out in the bush. It’s a welcome change that doesn’t compromise on power or towing capacity.

One thing is clear: Toyota knows its market well here in Australia. The HiLux has been king of utes for years, and this latest update shows they’re not planning to let up anytime soon. Whether you need it for work on the farm or just want a reliable vehicle that can handle anything life throws at you, the new HiLux is definitely worth considering.

In the end, while there are some notable updates and improvements in the 2026 Toyota HiLux, it’s still very much a familiar friend. If reliability and ruggedness top your list of must-haves for an SUV, you can’t go wrong with this latest version.

The post 2026 Toyota HiLux: An Update or a New Model? appeared first on Auto Global News – Global Car News & Reviews.

When you climb into the 2026 Toyota HiAce today, one thing becomes clear: there are no major changes. It’s still got that familiar feel and reliable performance we’ve come to love over the years. But does this mean it’s standing still while others move forward?

Ford has introduced its new Transit Custom with a sleeker design and more advanced tech features, making it tempting for those looking for something fresh. And let’s not forget about Volkswagen’s Transporter, which now comes packed with innovative options like adaptive cruise control.

But Toyota isn’t completely ignoring the market demands. The HiAce has received some updates to its infotainment system and added a few creature comforts inside the cabin. It’s just that these changes are subtle – more of a pat on the back for loyal customers rather than something revolutionary.

The real question is, does this new model have what it takes to compete? For many HiAce fans out there who prioritize reliability over cutting-edge tech, they probably won’t be disappointed. But if you’re in the market for that next big thing, Toyota might not tick all your boxes.

In the end, if you’re a fan of Toyota’s long-standing reputation for reliability and practicality, this year’s model is still worth considering. Just know that there are other vans out there vying to be your new best friend on wheels.

The post Toyota HiAce Gets Some Love, But Can It Keep Up? appeared first on Auto Global News – Global Car News & Reviews.

The Toyota Hilux has been around since 1968, but now it’s getting a modern makeover with an electrified heart. The new model boasts a robust design that stands out from the crowd.

With its powerful motor producing 196 horsepower and a range of up to 257 km on mixed driving cycles, this pickup is ready for both city streets and rural roads. It’s not just about power; it also comes packed with features like heated seats, LED lights, and an impressive touchscreen.

The Toyota Hilux Electric offers two versions: Légende and Lounge. The Légende starts at €69,000 while the top-of-the-line Lounge version will set you back by €72,500. Both come with a robust list of standard features including alloy wheels, running boards, and advanced safety systems.

Toyota plans to expand its Hilux lineup further in 2026 with a mild hybrid option and hydrogen fuel cell models coming soon after. This shows Toyota’s commitment to offering versatile options for every driver’s needs.

The Toyota Hilux Electric signals a bold new chapter for this legendary pickup. It’s not just about going green; it’s also about pushing the boundaries of what an everyday workhorse can do.

The post Toyota Hilux Electric Priced from €69,000 in France appeared first on Auto Global News – Global Car News & Reviews.

One of my biggest gripes with this car has always been its driving position. The new GR Yaris AT8 attempts to address these issues by integrating a digital dashboard and adjusting seat height, but it still feels too high for such an agile vehicle.

The redesigned center console integrates the infotainment screen into the dash panel, improving visibility and functionality despite being less aesthetically pleasing in photos. The new layout makes controls easier to access while driving.

While the automatic transmission adds paddle shifters behind the steering wheel, they’re made of basic plastic but serve their purpose well enough for enthusiasts looking to engage with the car’s performance capabilities manually.

The price point remains a sticking point despite these incremental improvements. At $72K, it doesn’t offer enough value over its manual sibling or other competitors in the market. It’s hard to justify this cost when there are more affordable alternatives available that still deliver on driving dynamics and technology features.

In conclusion, while the new GR Yaris AT8 offers some improvements over its predecessor, it still doesn’t live up to expectations when considering its price tag and overall value proposition in today’s market.

The post Toyota GR Yaris AT8: Worth the $72K Price Tag? appeared first on Auto Global News – Global Car News & Reviews.

One standout story from this year is the unveiling of the Toyota RAV4. The latest iteration builds upon the strengths of its predecessor, offering improved fuel efficiency and a more refined cabin experience. Buyers are excited about the new model’s enhanced connectivity features and advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS).

The Mazda CX-5 also made waves this year with its updated design language and technological upgrades. Fans of the previous generation will notice sleeker lines and an interior that feels both modern and familiar, thanks to Mazda’s commitment to intuitive user interfaces.

Hyundai’s Santa Fe Hybrid took home top honors at Drive Car of the Year 2025, a testament to its impressive performance in various categories. The model’s hybrid powertrain offers a balance between fuel economy and driving dynamics that sets it apart from competitors. Its spacious interior and thoughtful design elements make it an ideal choice for families.

Another significant development was Australia’s new road safety regulations mandating AEB systems on all new vehicles starting in 2025. This move reflects the growing importance of technology in enhancing vehicle safety, a trend that’s been gaining momentum over recent years.

In conclusion, 2025 was a year marked by significant advancements in automotive technology and design. As we look ahead to future trends, it’s clear that sustainability, connectivity, and driver assistance systems will continue to shape the industry landscape.

The post Top Car Stories of 2025: Toyota, Mazda, and Hyundai Take the Lead appeared first on Auto Global News – Global Car News & Reviews.