The newest Toyota recall affects approximately 106,000 Prius hybrids globally built from 2001 to 2003 for a fault with the electric power steering system. The Japanese automaker said the voluntary action affects around 52,000 Prius models sold in the United States. “If the steering wheel is repeatedly and strongly turned to the full-lock position, there is a possibility the nuts securing the pinion shaft in the steering gear box assembly may become loose,” Toyota said in a statement. The company added that if the owner leaves the condition uncorrected, over time they will gradually notice significant increased steering effort when making a left turn.
The all-new Prius V five-seater minivan isn’t due to arrive in U.S. showrooms until this fall, yet Toyota is already looking into the development of a larger model capable of seating seven passengers as well as carrying their luggage, according to Bob Carter, Toyota Division general manager. The larger Prius won’t be based on the Japanese market Prius Alpha nor the European specification Prius+, both of which pack a retractable third row of seats into the Prius V’s cargo area.
The Sienna will be offered in five trim levels, the Sienna grade, LE, XLE, Limited and for the first time the SE trim. The new SE offers revised bodywork, "Altezza" style clear tail lamps, 19-inch wheels, firmer suspension and revised steering tuning for a sportier ride. All-wheel-drive is only available with the V6 engine on the LE, XLE and Limited model trims.
The previous 3.5-liter 2GR-FE continues, but for the first time the Sienna offers a four cylinder, the 1AR-FE. An Electric Power Steering (EPS) system replaces the previous hydraulic power steering system. Toyota expects EPA-estimated mileage figures of 19 mpg city/24 mpg highway for models powered by the 4-cylinder engine, 18 mpg city/24 mpg highway for 2WD V6 models ,and 16 mpg city/22 mpg highway for AWD models. An optional tow package for V6 models is rated to tow 3,500 pounds (1,600 kg).
* Engine: 3.5 L DOHC 24-valve Dual VVT-i V6 - 2GR-FE * Output: 266 hp (200 kW) at 6200 RPM and 248 ft·lbf (336 N·m) at 4700 rpm (SAE Net) * Transmission: 5-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission with Intelligent Grade-Logic Control (ECT-i) * MPG: EPA Estimated 23 MPG Highway, 17 MPG City (2WD), and 21 Highway, 16 City (AWD). * Drivetrain: Front wheel drive, all wheel drive available on LE, XLE, XLE Limited (CE in Canada) * Turning Diameter: 36.8 ft (11.2 m)
