I was looking at some non-US Toyota cars and noticed the Toyota Caldina

3S-GTE (made since 1998)
2.0L turbocharged
260@6000 239@4400 awd 4spd auto
3260lbs (Im assuming no A/C)

It looks like a Matrix but is actually based on the Avensis platform, which also serves as the Scion tC's platform.
The Matrix/Vibe are actually part of the Corolla family.

It's sold in Japan so it should pass US emmissions. Im thinking shouldnt Toyota sell a rwd 5spd version, in the Scion tC??

 

Looks pretty good to me, like those gauges.

 

they had a prototype at the So.Cal Carson Toyota meet last year. I was able to snag a few pics heheh
right hand driven too

 

i want caldina and mark II here in US
I WANT IT NOW!! i had 3S-GT engine before and loved it

 

you know i would be so happy so see these on the roads in US instead of "toyota avalon"

 

and of coz this is my favourite

 

The latest Crown looks like the 06 GS.
So what's going to happen to the Artisto?

 

Aristo would be Lexus GS in japan too i believe

 

Toyota will introduce the Lexus line to the Japanese market in the very near future. This shows Toyota's commitment to bring a new level of luxury within their own domestic market without sacrificing their own identity.

It's quite funny how you guys are wishing that Toyota will bring this model and that model to the US, while the good folks down in Japan are clambering to remove all their "toyota" badges and slap on the much-heralded "Lexus" logo.

The grass IS always greener on the other side, eh?

 

The grass IS always greener on the other side, eh?

i know, stupid JDM fad... jk

 

Kinda makes you wonder who the heck they're surveying in those research studies on what Americans want. I don't know about you but I can't think of too many people who'd prefer a front-wheel-drive minivan/box/truck/car-hybrid over a rear-wheel-drive ultra-modern and ultra-efficient sedan/wagon.

 

I really like that caldina.
Looks very practical.
Why don't they sell that outside of Japan?!

 

they do sell it outside japan, i used to live in myanmar (south east asia country) and i used to drive older caldina with diesel engine. it was nice tho.

 

that what i was talking with my friend today. ppl in japan remove their toyota emblems and put lexus
ppl in US debadges their lexus/acura and put toyota/honda on it

oh here is the funny one " those who put lexus emblem on scion xA and xB" haha
it's not a joke, i've seen so many

 

Did you use to own an MR2?

I'm guessing judging from the transversly mounted motor, it can either be awd or fwd. Dont think rwd is possible, but hey it's still all good.