Concept Car Of The Day: 1999 Toyota XYR - AllCarIndex
Toyota used the Detroit Motor Show to unveil the exciting XYR sports coupe, a lightweight high-performance concept vehicle styled by Toyota’s CALTY Design Centre in Newport Beach, California.
An all-new aluminium alloy 1.8-litre twin-cam engine powered the front-wheel drive XYR. The engine employed an all-new VVTL-i induction system to produce 180 horsepower at 7,600 rpm. The system provided an exceptional blend of power, fuel economy, and reduced emissions over a broad rpm range.
The aggressively styled XYR rode on a 2590mm wheelbase and weighed in at only 1,140 kg. Suspension was fully independent, featuring MacPherson struts up front and double wishbone suspension at the rear, with 17-inch wheels, low profile tyres and disc brakes all round.
The interior of the XYR was designed to convey the look, feel, and simplicity-of-operation of a race car cockpit. Instrumentation was large and legible, controls were simple and easy to operate, and the sports seats were heavily bolstered for good lateral support.
The XYR was one of two vehicles unveiled by Toyota at that year’s Detroit show that were aimed specifically at young new car buyers. The second was a unique-to-the-U.S.A. saloon version of the new Yaris hatchback called ‘ECHO’ in the States. Both offered a strong conceptual indication of future Toyota products aimed at establishing an impression and a lasting connection with younger drivers.
The TOYOTA XYR CONCEPT SPECIFICATIONS were impressive, with details on the engine, drive system, suspension, brakes, steering, tyres, wheels, and dimensions. The XYR was a groundbreaking concept vehicle that showcased Toyota's commitment to innovation and performance.
