2007 Toyota Blade (premium JDM Toyota Auris)

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The Toyota Auris hatchback has been given a new Corolla Axio-like front end to match the tastes of the Japanese market and is now in sale in Japan as the Toyota Blade, positioned as a premium hatchback. The Japanese market Toyota Blade is equipped with the 2AZ-FE 2.4 litre DOHC VVT-i engine, similiar to the unit in our local Toyota Camry 2.4. Imagine all that torque at low to medium speed RPM in a small hatch like the Toyota Blade. That’s 165 horsepower at 6,000rpm and 224Nm of torque at 4,000rpm. The Toyota Auris is also sold in Japan, but is positioned lower in the product range and only comes with either a 1.5 litre or 1.8 litre engine.

While the engine in our Camry is matched to a 5-speed auto, in the Toyota Blade it is equipped with a Super CVT-i gearbox, offering virtually unlimited ratios in automatic mode, but users who want the enjoyment of seeing the revs rise and fall like normal cogs will be able to shift between 7 virtual pre-defined gears by selecting the Super CVT-i gearbox’s Sports Sequential Shiftmatic mode.

The standard Toyota Blade sends all that power through the front wheels, but you also have the option of equipping the Toyota Blade with all wheel drive for an average of extra 200-250K yen. Toyota targets to sell about 3,000 units of the Toyota Blade a month in the Japanese market.

More photos and extra details from Toyota about the new Toyota Blade for the Japanese market after the jump.

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VEHICLE OUTLINE, Source: Toyota News Releases

Highly Advanced Vehicle Design

– Based on the Toyota-brand design philosophy “Vibrant Clarity,” the unique exterior attracts those who see it by evoking an energetic feeling that conveys a sense of powerful driving performance and high status, while the interior arouses a sense of fun for those on the inside with high quality and style.

Exterior

– Deeply sculpted body structure and innovative headlight design create an exterior that conveys the advanced nature of the Blade.

– The front view expresses high status through a three-dimensional structure that accentuates the center, deep bumper openings, a grille that achieves different perspectives of strength and depth with each bar, and L-shaped headlights.

– The low center of gravity and the characteristic silhouette of the hatch door create a side view that imparts the Blade’s vitality.

– The rear view features a wide and expansive shape and distinctive elongated combination taillights that convey stability and an air of status.

– High-quality paint produces a lustrous finish in body colors that highlight the presence and vigor of the exterior.

Interior

– The interior seeks luxury and an exceptional tactile experience.

– The suede-like leather on the door trim and instrument panel enclosure as well as the titanium finish center cluster panel and ornamentation generate a particular sense of high quality.

Enhanced Equipment that Seeks Exceptional Passenger Comfort

– The seats provide comfortable seating with a good fit and feature a combination of real leather and Alcantara®*1, which is a leading international brand of suede-like artificial leather that pays meticulous attention to the quality of its feel in the pursuit of the high-quality touch of leather (G grade). This delivers not only functionality, but also a stylish and comfortable space.

– A four-spoke steering wheel covered with the highest-quality leather used on Toyota brand vehicles is standard on all vehicles in the series.

– The gentle illumination emanating from the large ceiling light employing three LEDs (indirect illumination) create a stylish atmosphere (G grade).

– A sliding eight-way multi-adjustable power driver’s seat (G grade) with a seat cushion that has separate height adjustments for its front and rear and a seamlessly variable reclining seatback is aimed at offering an optimal seating position.

– The main controls, including the gear-shift lever, have been concentrated within easier reach of the driver’s seat to enhance operability and functionality.

– An excellent package created through the adoption of a newly developed platform allows for a spacious cabin and relaxing flat-surfaced legroom in the rear, while also achieving superb handling.

– The rear seats, equipped with a reclining function, have backrests that fold in a 60/40 split and a single-motion tilt-down mechanism that allows both the seat cushions and the backrests to easily fold and stow away, creating an expansive and flat cargo space.

– An automatic air-conditioner with a pollen-removal mode filters out pollen, dust and other impurities from the air. An additional air conditioning vent is incorporated at the top of the center instrument cluster to enhance comfort throughout the vehicle. G grade vehicles feature fully automatic independent temperature controls for the driver’s and passenger’s side and also adopts Plasmacluster Ions®*2, an air-cleaning technology, which fills the cabin with refreshing air characterized by an optimal ratio of positive and negative ions.

– The Smart Entry & Start System employs a key that does not need to be pulled out to lock and unlock the doors, as well as a push button for starting the engine.

– The advanced Intelligent Parking Assist system, optional on G grade vehicles with a navigation system (manufacturer’s option), supports steering operations when parallel parking and backing into a parking space. Ultrasonic sensors installed on the front of the vehicle detect other parked vehicles and based on the results estimate the physical dimensions of a vacant parking space and set the target parking position.

– The HAC (Hill-start Assist Control) function prevents the vehicle from rolling backwards when starting up on a hill and allows for smooth acceleration.

Outstanding Cruising Performance that Provides Comfortable Driving

– The 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine achieves high torque at low and medium speeds combined with smooth acceleration performance at high speeds for ample power as well as excellent fuel efficiency.

– The newly designed suspension adopts a newly developed double wishbone-type in the rear for outstanding handling, superior cruising stability, and a comfortable ride at all speeds and on all road surfaces.

– A fuel-saving Super CVT-i (Continuously Variable Transmission-intelligent) which contributes to a smoother driving experience is combined with a highly responsive, seven-speed Sports Sequential Shiftmatic transmission that provides the feel of a manual transmission, thereby greatly heightening the “fun to drive” quotient.

– A high-rigidity body construction also contributes to ensuring brisk handling, cruising stability and riding comfort.

– The four-wheel large-diameter disk brakes provide excellent braking performance and feature superior control with a high-quality braking feeling.

– Road noise and engine noise have been reduced by the optimal distribution of vibration-controlling, sound-absorbing and sound-blocking materials, delivering a quiet cabin space on par with that of a high-class sedan.

Safety and Environmental Performance at the Top of its Class

– Enhanced safety equipment provides peace of mind.

– The VSC (Vehicle Stability Control) and TRC (Traction Control) systems, SRS side and curtain shield airbags, and a driver’s seat SRS knee airbag come standard on all vehicles in the series.

– The GOA (Global Outstanding Assessment) construction has been further evolved to create an advanced collision-safety body structure. During collision tests under stricter-than-normal standards, the speed was set at 55km/h, and the vehicle was subjected to omni-directional, vehicle-to-vehicle collision tests with a vehicle up to the 2-ton range. Through the use of a body that effectively absorbs collision impact by diffusing it throughout its structure, Toyota satisfied all independent targets for survival space and occupant injury.

– The pedestrian-injury-lessening body structure has been evolved to further reduce pedestrian head injuries, pursuing a class-top level of protection.

– The front-seat structures are based on the WIL (Whiplash Injury Lessening) concept and come with stronger seat frames and greater backrest give. They were designed based on analyses using THUMS (Total Human Model for Safety), incorporating a structural design that reduces stress on the neck during low-speed rear impact.

– All vehicles in the series have been certified as having emissions levels 75% lower than the 2005 standards under the Japanese Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport’s Approval System for Low-emission Vehicles. Two-wheel-drive vehicles also achieve the Japanese 2010 fuel efficiency standards specified by the Japanese Law Concerning the Rational Use of Energy.

– Eco-VAS (Eco-Vehicle Assessment System)—Toyota’s original comprehensive environmental impact assessment system—was implemented to achieve the overall reduction of environmental impact throughout the vehicle’s entire lifecycle as efficiently as possible. Environmental targets were set in the vehicle development stage and a life cycle assessment was carried out, aiming to reduce CO2 emissions and other atmospheric pollutants, not just during the use stage, but also through all stages of the vehicle’s life, from manufacture to disposal.

– A review of the materials, processing methods and adhesives used for interior parts resulted in a reduction in the amount of VOCs (volatile organic compounds) used, thereby also reducing the discomforting odors emitted from such compounds.

– An Eco Drive Indicator lights up when the vehicle is being efficiently operated to raise the driver’s awareness of environmentally considerate driving and contribute to higher fuel efficiency.

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Paul Tan

After dabbling for years in the IT industry, Paul Tan initially began this site as a general blog covering various topics of personal interest. With an increasing number of readers paying rapt attention to the motoring stories, one thing led to another and the rest, as they say, is history.

 

Comments

  • monomania (Member) on Dec 30, 2006 at 3:27 am

    let me be the 1st to comment on this REAL BEAUTY… nuff said

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 3 Thumb down 0
  • carenthusiast (Member) on Dec 30, 2006 at 3:36 am

    this looks much better than Toyota Auris!

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 1 Thumb down 0
  • miracle (Member) on Dec 30, 2006 at 4:19 am

    very nice.will it be released in m'sia?

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 0 Thumb down 0
  • miracle (Member) on Dec 30, 2006 at 4:29 am

    very nice

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 0 Thumb down 0
  • mystvearn (Member) on Dec 30, 2006 at 4:46 am

    Looks fine, but not sure if this design will make heads turn…IF this was release this year, or last year I still could not tell if its new or old.

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 0 Thumb down 0
  • kendo (Member) on Dec 30, 2006 at 4:55 am

    previous teh sexy

    CIVIC 3 doors

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 0 Thumb down 0
  • iguanaa (Member) on Dec 30, 2006 at 10:56 am

    ..unique I must say…but as for the looks..well..it is a very personal thing…it's all a matter of taste…

    ..btw..any of you guys watched the movie "Conffesion of Pain"…if I'm not mistaken…Chapman Tho drives a Toyota Auris…can't really recall…if any of you guys are going to watch it…pls try and pay a little bit more attention…and let us know….:)

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 0 Thumb down 0
  • iguanaa (Member) on Dec 30, 2006 at 10:58 am

    …just a little bit more to add…from the side it does look very similiar to the Caldina GT4..which is also a 4 door sports coupe…

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 0 Thumb down 0
  • renyeo (Member) on Dec 30, 2006 at 4:13 pm

    Its a JDM so not for export or Malaysian sale.

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 0 Thumb down 0
  • technik (Member) on Dec 30, 2006 at 5:26 pm

    iguanaa,

    the car chapman drove if not mistaken is Prius Hybrid! Others correct me if i'm wrong.

    cheers.

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 0 Thumb down 0
  • Joe Ooi (Member) on Dec 30, 2006 at 5:28 pm

    If export to Malaysia, Yaris already near to RM 100K, this one, ahemmmmm, check NAP ……….. suck!!!!!!!!!!! My guessing is easily exceed RM 200K!

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 0 Thumb down 0
  • xg9 (Member) on Dec 30, 2006 at 5:58 pm

    just watch and drools guys… watch and drool…

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 0 Thumb down 0
  • aesthari (Member) on Dec 30, 2006 at 6:37 pm

    I like the Auris' style better, but with a 2.4l engine with 4WD in a small hatch like this…. gotta be FUN all the way.

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 0 Thumb down 0
  • nmh (Member) on Dec 30, 2006 at 8:21 pm

    toyota trying hard to beat nissan versa…dun worry toyota coz nissan versa is ugly enuf (but the concept is demn cool)

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 0 Thumb down 0
  • transformer (Member) on Dec 30, 2006 at 9:20 pm

    its blend between the Corolla Hatch and the Caldina!

    conclusion: nothing to drool much…

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 0 Thumb down 0
  • albagmane (Member) on Dec 30, 2006 at 11:41 pm

    love the rear LED lights… very futuristic and concept looking… it will look much more better if in a sporty version…

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 0 Thumb down 0
  • motorhead (Member) on Dec 31, 2006 at 6:22 am

    My jaw dropped… just look at it's features…. so manylah… took some time to read them….

    toyota memang best!

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 0 Thumb down 0
  • neurra (Member) on Dec 31, 2006 at 11:43 am

    paul, a bit off topic but heard there's gonna be a price hike real soon.. any intel on that?

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 0 Thumb down 0
  • protonGL (Member) on Dec 31, 2006 at 11:49 am

    plain and blunt ,,

    more spirited look with mazda 3

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 0 Thumb down 0
  • topgunthang (Member) on Dec 31, 2006 at 6:19 pm

    only thing that caught my eye was the optional 4wd or awd

    maybe we gonna get some 4wd celicas soon or its replacement.

    interesting….even though its still a corolla.

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 0 Thumb down 0
  • tokmoh (Member) on Dec 31, 2006 at 9:53 pm

    The front eyes are sooooooo Mercedes CLS. The back reminds me a bit of Renault Megane.

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 0 Thumb down 0
  • sunlamp (Member) on Jan 01, 2007 at 1:23 am

    Regular members here…

    Apart commenting on external appearance.

    To be No.1 Car maker, Toyota must address every market aspect.

    Example Leuxs go for the high end models against BMW, Mercs…. etc

    In this case, the business point of view

    This blade which has a high specs is the answer against VW GOLF.

    Don't you guys think so…?

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 0 Thumb down 0
  • sunlamp (Member) on Jan 01, 2007 at 1:38 am

    Back to the basic and orginal point of view

    P1 born is out to serve the basic usage of Malaysian in the country.

    P2, i don't know but the quality counts if biz is concerns.

    For biz people out there.

    No wayang wayang management PLEASE.

    No say BOLEH on low quality, lousy productions out from the factory QC.

    Malaysian do have standard but need people to comments and don't listen the management is xxxxxx?

    Boleh is over use in this land, just like "sorry". whats the point?

    Prove and SHOW the sincereity……….

    CHEAP and Reliable car is the KEY word for people on this land.

    Dont waste time any more….

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 0 Thumb down 0
  • eeheng (Member) on Jan 01, 2007 at 4:27 am

    this car is so nice looking.

    but i felt so sad for the new toyota corolla that wont come to malaysia.

    because of toyota japan give a target to toyota malaysia that must sell over 900k toyota new cars on 2006 only will have new cars on 2007, but sadly, toyota malaysia just reach 8xxk cars… :(

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 0 Thumb down 0
  • aliBaPa (Member) on Jan 01, 2007 at 3:30 pm

    it looks nice, it looks luxury.

    but i'm sick looking at them.

    do we have even more creative design.

    i think nowadays people just want you to know their taste instead of their wealth.

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 0 Thumb down 0
  • i have blade…nice n powderful car..

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 2 Thumb down 0
  • Martin Enosa on Feb 27, 2014 at 11:42 pm

    Awesome car to drive, especially when overtaking slower cars.
    Don’t like the fact that you can’t listen to the radio unless the engine is on.
    Still love the car.

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 0 Thumb down 0
    • Graham on Apr 25, 2014 at 3:15 am

      I have a 2007 Toyota Blade.The radio can be operated in accessory mode with the engine off. Cheers.

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 1 Thumb down 0
  • I love this car I bought a 2011 model myself, However my left headlamp got damaged, is there anywhere that I can source it, to get it to Jamaica

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 0 Thumb down 0
  • Angel on Oct 10, 2022 at 9:59 am

    Where can I get these front lights

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 0 Thumb down 0
 

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