Toyota: 2003 Sydney Motor Show

Prius: While the just-launched Kluger was flying the AWD flag for Toyota, it was the Japanese marque's second-generation Prius that attracted most attention.

Revised pricing of the '04 Prius, now available at a reduced $36,990 - which includes it's hybrid petrol/electric engine generating a not-insignificant 82kW of power - will no doubt attract a wider range of buyers looking to stay clean and green.

Shown with the i-Tech pack at the Sydney Motor Show, this hi-tech upgrade adds passive safety features of front seat side SRS airbags and curtainshield airbags, vehicle stability control, Bluetooth hands-free mobile telephone compatibility, a next-generation DVD-based touch-screen satellite navigation and premium JBL audio system.

The premium audio system includes 6-CD in-dash multi-changer, cassette player and nine speakers.

The automated rear-parking function was a sight for sore eyes, and anyone who dislikes reverse and/or parallel parking will be psyched about this new technology.

Kluger: Not entirely enthralling, the Toyota Kluger is nonetheless a potential winner in the company's updated range.

The car-based SUV, has a seven-seat capability and delivers strong performance and while offering passenger car interior noise levels and ride comfort.

Three models will be offered when the Kluger goes on sale on November 6th, all with 3.3-litre VVTi-equipped quad camshaft V6 engines, five-speed electronically controlled transmissions, constant all-wheel drive and long-travel four-wheel independent suspension.

Toyota representatives also reckon the Kluger is one of the quickest six-cylinder all-wheel drive wagons in Australia, with zero to 100km/h acceleration in 8.1 seconds. Its 3.3-litre V6 delivers 172kW at 5600rpm and 328Nm of torque at 3600rpm.

Two all-wheel drive control systems are used, depending on model grade and options. Entry level CV and mid-grade CVX have a viscous coupled centre limited slip differential and limited slip rear differential.

Top-of-the-range Grande has electronic AWD control, using the electronics of its vehicle stability control and traction control systems.

Safety equipment includes driver and front passenger SRS airbags and ABS anti-skid brakes with electronic brake force distribution and Brake Assist on all models.

All seating positions have a three-point seat belt and adjustable head restraint.

Front-seat side SRS airbags and curtain-shield airbags are standard equipment on Grande and optionally available (with VSC and TRC) on CVX grade.

CV has five-seat capacity, with the option of a third-row seat, while the more expensive CVX and Grande have seven-seat capacity and the second and third-row seats can be folded almost flat if not required. Prices start at $43,990.

FINE-S Concept: Toyota's hybrid theme continued when it uncovered its conceptual FINE-S hydrogen fuel-cell/electric concept car.

The environmentally-friendly model highlights Toyota's breakthroughs in the immediate and longer-term future of hybrid technology.

The FINE-S concept vehicle features a hybrid hydrogen fuel-cell/electric drive train, combined with a low centre-of-gravity and an individual wheel torque control system for optimum handling.

The futuristic high-performance look of the FINE-S is designed to demonstrate that its fuel-cell technology can be installed in a variety of vehicle types, shapes, and sizes.

"The FINE-S and new Prius are part of Toyota's ongoing research into environmentally-friendly cars and trucks," Toyota Australia's Scott Grant said. "The pair exemplify Toyota's future direction - hence the innovate theme in Sydney."

The theme is further emphasised by Toyota's FXS concept car which will also be on display at the Sydney Motor Show from October 16 to 26. The FXS features a 4.3-litre V8 driving the rear wheels, race-style double wishbone suspension and a futuristic blue-lit centre console.

Rick Bates and Damien Long will appear regularly at the Toyota exhibit over the shows 10 days to sign posters and to chat to show goers. Rick Bates will also highlight the capabilities of LandCruiser 100 Series, LandCruiser Prado, Kluger, HiLux 4X4 and RAV4 models on the Motor Show's four-wheel-drive track.