Toyota Recalling 106,000 Prius Hybrids Globally Over Steering Wheel Issue

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.

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Toyota Mulling a Larger Hybrid Minivan than the Prius V with Seating for Seven

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.

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Lotus puts Toyota's Venza on a Strict Diet

Lotus just released a concept based on the Toyota Venza where the goal was to trim the fat, ultimately reducing CO2 emissions. Officially, the project was meant to showcase a "viable mass reduction strategy" on two representative models: a 2017 near-term version and a 2020 long-term version.

Comparing the Lotus Venza versus the off-the-lot Toyota Venza, overall mass was reduced by as much as 38% on the 2020 (minus power train) at only a 3% increase in component costs. The 2017 model's mass reduction was 21%. All this was done using processes and tech that should be available and affordable by 2020.

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Toyota Preparing Venza Projects for SEMA Show

Toyota’s SEMA show stand in Las Vegas this November will host the debut of two customized versions of the Venza crossover. Beginning with Five Axis’ Venza AS V, it features a complete bodykit with new front and rear bumpers as well as slightly wider fenders and 20-inch alloy wheels. One of the most prominent features on the Venza AS V will be the integrated stow-away rack system created by Magna Car Top Systems that can transport a variety of items like bicycles and skis. -Continued

Second up is the SportLux Venza by Street Image that sports a bodykit and new alloy wheels. Interior modifications include the upgraded black/burgundy leather treatment and an upscale navigation unit that is equipped with a full entertainment system. Furthermore, Street Image says that it will also upgrade the engine as well as the braking and suspension systems.