Tuesday, July 31, 2007

Automotive News Toyota ist Redesigned in Japan

Automotive News Toyota ist Redesigned in Japan

Automotive News Toyota ist Redesigned in Japan

which shared sheet metal with the now-discontinued Scion xA — was launched in Japan in May 2002. The five-door hatchback shares its underpinnings with the Toyota Yaris. The redesigned ist (pronounced "east") is pitched to "second-generation Baby Boomers" in the Japan domestic market. The Scion xD in North America, like the rest of the Scion lineup, is aimed at roughly the same demographic, Gen-Y buyers in their early to middle 20s.

Although sheet metal is shared between the two cars, there are differences in grilles, interiors, powertrains and other hardware. The ist offers a choice of 1.5- and 1.8-liter four-cylinder engines. The 1.5 is coupled with a continuously variable automatic transmission, while the 1.8 comes with a conventional four-speed automatic. Buyers can opt for front- or four-wheel drive. Side airbags, side curtains and active headrests are standard.

Prices in Japan start at $13,998.

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