THE FUN BUTTONS
IMPROVE YOUR DRIVER SKILL AND ENJOYMENT LEVELS WITH THE PRESS OF A BUTTON
There’s nothing quite like the sensation of being connected to your vehicle and feeling how it responds to your inputs. This is one of the main reasons Toyota has engineered the following powertrain functions into its vehicles … but there is also more to it than that.
THE IMT BUTTON = PERFECT SHIFTING
IMT stands for Intelligent Manual Transmission, the Toyota term for rev matching. When activated, this function calculates the engine speed that will make for perfect engagement of your next gearshift and adjusts the engine speed accordingly.
During downshifting, the engine-control unit “blips” the throttle, much like a skilled racing driver would in performing a heel-and-toe manoeuvre. The advantages of the system include smooth and rapid gearshifts, and less wear on the clutch components.
THE POWER BUTTON = POWER WHEN YOU NEED IT
The power mode (PWR) button makes it easier for the driver to access the full performance potential of their vehicles. Internal combustion engines: this is done by altering the accelerator-pedal calibration to increase its sensitivity. Although the function does not increase the peak output gures, it results in a more sporty and responsive drive.
Hybrid powertrains: in hybrid applications, the PWR mode calls upon the full capability of both the internal-combustion engine as well as the electric powertrain to provide enhanced acceleration prowess.
Although this power function increases the fun factor when driving, it also increases safety during overtaking, meaning you’ll spend less time in the opposite lane facing oncoming tra c.
ECO MODE = THE FUEL SAVER
In these tough economic times, fuel economy is increasingly becoming a key characteristic of any vehicle. By selecting economy mode (ECO) in your Toyota, you will be getting the most out of every drop of fuel. This mode reduces the accelerator pedal’s sensitivity and even optimises the gearshift points and air-conditioning system where appropriate. Of course, driving style still has the greatest in uence on fuel economy, but at least ECO mode plays its part.