Toyota Offers Bluetooth on 15 Models

Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc. currently offers integrated Bluetooth® hands-free wireless systems in 15 models and will make it available on the all-new 2009 Venza when it goes on sale this fall.

With more states enacting laws that prohibit driving while talking on handheld cell phones, the Bluetooth® hands-free systems connection between certain Toyota models and most Bluetooth®-enabled mobile phones provide an easy wireless solution. Built into optional Toyota onboard DVD navigation and JBL audio systems, the technology provides users with convenient hands-free phone capabilities.

Bluetooth® hands-free systems are available on Toyota RAV4, Corolla and Matrix models with a JBL audio unit. The system is also available on Toyota 4Runner, Highlander, Highlander Hybrid, Land Cruiser, Sequoia, Sienna, Tundra, Avalon, Camry, Camry Hybrid, Prius, and Solara models with the JBL audio unit or DVD navigation system.

The available DVD navigation and JBL audio systems enable the driver to make and receive hands-free phone calls on most compatible Bluetooth® equipped cell phones via the vehicle's built in microphone and speakers. There is no need to connect any interface cables between the phone and the vehicle. Owners simply need to register the phone by "pairing" to the system.

Due to differences in the quality of various handsets and Bluetooth® chip programming, phone functionality levels may differ by cell phone. The customer typically can enjoy the following Bluetooth® hands-free benefits on Toyota models:

-- Integrated phone operation utilizes built-in microphone and audio speakers.

-- One touch call answering via the steering-wheel control or the navigation screen.

-- Automatic audio mute when receiving or making a call.

-- Place a call from an outgoing or the incoming call log (up to five most recent calls -- on DVD navigation system only).

-- Voice command functions also allow the driver to make or receive calls.

Owners can refer to the LetsTalk Web site at toyota.letstalk.com for a listing of compatible phones and functionality.

Solar-Powered Toyota Prius To Be Sold in 2009

With the rapidly rising cost of fuel, just driving a hybrid may not be enough to alleviate the burden on your wallet anymore. Going just a little greener is Toyota, because word is that the Japanese automaker will start selling a version of the Prius hybrid equipped with solar panels starting next year.

This has not yet been confirmed by Toyota itself, but the news does come from the Nikkei, a respected business paper in Japan. The next-generation Toyota Prius, which may or may not feature a complete redesign, will be offered with solar panels lining the roof. These panels will be sourced from Kyocera and they will provide some power to the air conditioning system.

No, the solar panels won't drive the wheels, but they could improve fuel economy by taking care of secondary needs like air conditioning. No word on whether the solar Prius will be sold outside of Japan.

Nissan 370Z Could Be Offered with Beefy V8 Engine

The assumption was that the upcoming Nissan 370Z would get the same 3.7L V6 engine as its recent Infiniti G37 counterpart. What about people who want a little more grunt to go with their Japanese sports car? Not everyone can afford the asking price of the fantastic Nissan GT-R, so a V8-powered version of the 370Z just could be the ticket.

According to Best Car magazine of Japan, Nissan is planning on selling at least two versions of the Nissan 370Z coupe. The first would likely get the same V6 as the Infiniti, but a high performance version could get outfitted with a V8. Best Car did not mention exactly which eight-cylinder was being considered, but pundits are looking toward the company's 4.5L unit. A bent eight, according to Nissan's Chief of Production, is a distinct possibility.

To provide even more of a performance boost, the new Nissan 370Z will be about 220 pounds lighter than the current model. Buyers will choose between a six-speed manual and a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.