Toyota has developed two new automatic transmissions―the 8-speed Direct Shift-8AT and the 10-speed Direct shift-10AT. For both, various measures were taken to minimize energy loss and heighten transmission efficiency. Gear tooth surfaces were processed using a new technique for a lower coefficient of friction when the gears engage, and the configuration of the friction material used inside the clutch was optimized to reduce clutch torque loss by approximately 50 percent during rotation (compared to a conventional 6-speed transmission). These and other efforts resulted in achieving one of the worlds best transmission efficiencies*3. The new automatic transmissions are more comp and lighter than comparative conventional transmissions, lowering a vehicles fuel requirements. And their lower center of gravity results in both improved straight-driving stability and better cornering stability.\r
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Furthermore, widened gears and a newly developed high-performance comp torque convertor combine for a broader gear lockup range. The resulting quick and smooth response to accelerator pedal operation creates an as desired direct driving feel.\r
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In the case of the Direct Shift-10AT, even though the number of gears has been increased to 10 (compared to eight gears in the case of the Direct Shift-8AT), the use of close-ratio gears optimizes the range of use of each gear, particularly in the low-to-mid speed range. The resulting smooth gear changes, which are among the worlds quickest*3, create a rhythmical and comfortable sensation that is suitable for a premium rear-wheel-drive vehicle.\r
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Through such measures, fundamental vehicle performance in prical driving situations ranging from driving around town to driving on the highway has been improved to a degree that drivers can distinctly experience. Smooth response to accelerator pedal operation enables as desired vehicle departure and, in overtaking maneuvers, it allows lag-free and rhythmical acceleration that meets driver expectations, even in cases of sudden and heavy accelerator pedal use.\r
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New 2.5-liter Direct-injection, Inline 4-cylinder Gasoline Engine\r
Toyota has named its new line of internal-combustion power plants Dynamic Force Engines. To bring out the new engines potential to the fullest, their basic structure was completely rethought using TNGA, and their overall structure and configuration were wholly innovated to achieve high-level driving and environmental performance. Work will continue to make the new engines even more advanced.\r
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The new engines employ high-speed combustion technology and a variable control system. They also achieve greater thermal efficiency, resulting in high output, due to a reduction in energy losses associated with, among others, exhaust and cooling systems and the movement of mechanical parts. Their lineup includes a 2.5-liter engine that has one of the worlds best thermal efficiencies*3―40 percent when used in gasoline-powered vehicles and 41 percent when used in hybrid vehicles (HVs). This new, thoroughly reconsidered and greatly evolved engine features numerous new technologies, such as technologies for minute control that make it highly responsive and allow it to generate ample torque at all speeds.