Toyota to reveal GT86 convertible concept
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Toyota has produced a concept previewing a possible convertible version of the GT86 sports car. The FT-86 Open will debut at the Geneva auto show next month and is likely to go into production.
Toyota's chief engineer for the rear-wheel drive sports machines, Tetsuya Tada, told Automotive News Europe in 2011 that the GT86 was originally engineered to be turned into a convertible. "The decision as to whether we make one depends how it sells, but if you ask me whether there will be one, I would say, 'yes'," Tada said.
Last year 4,809 GT86 coupes were sold in Europe following its launch in June.
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Toyota envisions its i-Road concept as an alternative to a bike rental in large cities. |
Also on Toyota's Geneva stand will be a new two-seat electric concept called i-Road. Styled in Japan, the concept seats the passenger behind the driver to create a narrow, city-friendly vehicle.
According to a spokesman, the car is Toyota's vision of "final-mile" personal transport that could be rented from stands located around cities in much the same way as bicycles are now.
Next to the two concepts, Toyota will display the new RAV4 for the first time in Europe ahead of the medium SUV's sales start in the region.
In addition, Toyota luxury brand Lexus will show the all-new IS mid-sized premium car following its world debut at the Detroit auto show in January. The third-generation IS will be sold with either a V-6 gasoline engine or a gasoline-electric hybrid powertrain. No diesel variant will be offered.
You can reach Nick Gibbs at nick.gibbs@btinternet.com.
