Toyota compact trucks return in 2010!!!

sparkyy · #1 (**permalink**) 12-31-2007, 01:09 PM

The upper photo shows Toyota's new A-BAT compact truck concept (Lower one is a Dodge for comparison). Built on the same wheelbase (113") as the 1986 Toyota compact trucks, this is Toyota's latest compact truck concept. The new generation Tacoma has gone mid-size and expensive, and Toyota no longer offers a compact truck in America. Well, it looks like this is their answer.

The concept A-BAT (Advanced Breakthrough Aero Truck) pickup features unibody construction, hybrid drivetrain, and a Chevy Avalanche style truck bed. It will be about the size of a RAV4 SUV. I posted 2 of the concepts below. I actually like the lower 2006 black Dodge Rampage concept, but the upper Toyota with "Ridgeline" styling cues really misses the mark in my opinion.

What's your opinion members?

Burger Steak & Eggs · #2 (**permalink**) 12-31-2007, 02:17 PM

Yes, in these times of high fuel costs, a smaller truck is badly needed, but the Ridgeline is not the best basis for styling. They should have used the last of their own compact trucks to pattern from, and perhaps streamline and modernize them a bit more. Last but not least, offer a regular cab option.

tacocrazy · #3 (**permalink**) 12-31-2007, 02:30 PM

I don't really like it, but I have never really liked many new vehicle styles until they have "grown on me"
I don't think it really even looks like a truck. My taco is a truck!

utreux · #4 (**permalink**) 12-31-2007, 04:17 PM

the first word that popped in my head when i saw the A-BAT wasn't truck.

it was more like "WTF?"

tammikm · #5 (**permalink**) 12-31-2007, 04:18 PM

they are both hideous!

Rogue Hunter · #6 (**permalink**) 12-31-2007, 04:53 PM

Yeah, I'm thinking, it's just as well I didn't wait. I doubt that one would grow on me!

tundraboy27909 · #7 (**permalink**) 12-31-2007, 08:26 PM

I thought that I read somewhere that Toyota was looking at this concept for the Scion line. Kind of makes more sense as a Scion than a Toyota.

ThirdHorseman · #8 (**permalink**) 12-31-2007, 09:50 PM

It's just a concept...it will look much better when it's adapted to a more mainstream style.

lelandstanford · #9 (**permalink**) 12-31-2007, 09:50 PM

It's not a truck. It's Toyota's version of Honda Element - cargo space + a bed.

It will not have the duty rating or ruggedness of old Hilux nor will be significantly cheaper than current Tacoma.

I think the idea of A-BAT is just another venue for Toyota to bring in a personalized weekend hauler to the market (read Scion).

jtsailjt · #10 (**permalink**) 01-01-2008, 09:55 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by utreux

the first word that popped in my head when i saw the A-BAT wasn't truck.

it was more like "WTF?"

Funny, because that's exactly what popped into my head too when I saw it. WTF?! For something as small and ugly as that to ever develop much interest, it better get at least 30mpg so at least it would have ONE redeeming feature. To me, it looks like something halfway between the Ridgeline and an old Subaru Baja on steroids and I never managed to warm up to either of those. In fact, every single time I've ever seen either of these vehicles, the first things that popped into my head was "what a fugly vehicle and I wonder why anyone would buy one," or more succinctly, WTF?

jdeaton · #11 (**permalink**) 01-01-2008, 11:01 AM

thats no more of a truck than that subaru baja thing is

sparkyy · #12 (**permalink**) 01-01-2008, 12:48 PM

I am really curious to check out the 6-speed automatic Mahindra (India manufactured) compact turbo-diesel truck when it arrives later this year. Except for the new Tundra, it appears Toyota is in no hurry to offer America high torque, high mileage turbo-diesel engines like they offer in other parts of the world. Here are some Mahindra specs, and you can find out more here:

PickupTruck.Com - Interview with John Perez CEO of Global Vehicles USA

* New Diesel Technology offers Competitive Advantage
* Clean Burning Diesel Technology developed by Bosch,
* 6 Speed Automatic Transmission
* 60,000 Mile Bumper to Bumper Warranty
* 28-35 mpg Fuel Ecconomy (est)
* HIgher Gauge Steel than Other Vehicles in its Class
* USB port on Stereo
* Shift on-the-fly 4 Wheel Drive

lelandstanford · #13 (**permalink**) 01-01-2008, 01:37 PM

For those who don't need towing or offroad, Daihatsu Gran Max is an excellent choice.

2008 Daihatsu Gran Max minibus and pickup

Burger Steak & Eggs · #14 (**permalink**) 01-01-2008, 02:39 PM

I think those can work over here, but stay away from them for the first few years at least. Remember Hyundai in the mid '80s. I will pass on being the western "beta tester".

Also they need more stylists born after 1960.

sparkyy · #15 (**permalink**) 01-01-2008, 08:03 PM

I think the "no friils" truck styling is rather attractive. I think they will succeed in the marketplace because of the modern 30 mpg turbo-diesel drivetrain, decent pricing, and generous factory warranty.