For the next generation

JAPANISE automotive leaders Toyota launched the new Zelas sports coupe model at a ceremony at Bahrain City Centre.

The launch by Ebrahim K. Kanoo, the distributor of Toyota and Lexus in the Kingdom, took place in the presence of company officials and mall visitors who greeted the new model with eager anticipation.

According to officials, the Zelas has been designed to meet the demands of the younger generation of drivers. Speaking at the launch, Toyota and Lexus brand manager Ayman Shehadeh said: "The new Toyota Zelas has been specifically designed to transform the driving experience of young people and make them feel they are sitting behind the wheels of a true and pure sports car.

"The Zelas will exceed the expectations of Bahrain's youth as it has a very aggressive design and was made to be easily personalised," he added.

Toyota representatives also claim that the model's styling and features redefine its segment to meet the desires of the evolving sports coupe buyers thanks to its styling and new technologies. The Zelas is designed to be a high-impact sports coupe with simple and unique elements. The exterior design projects a bolder, more aggressive stance than previous Toyota models, but one of its boldest design features is the sleek cabin shape with wrap-around window graphics that add to its sporty profile

The interior of this sporty, two-door coupe is worth noting, the front cabin design provides a driver-centered cockpit and entry and exit for rear passengers has been made easier with a walk-in lever located at shoulder level on the front seats.

However, the really impressive features are under the bonnet. The 178 horsepower, 2.5-litre inline four-cylinder engine offers the latest in lightweight technology, including Dual Variable Valve Timing with intelligence. The Zelas offers drivers the choice of two all-new six-speed transmissions. The manual transmission features direct and precise shifts, while the automatic boasts sequential shifting.

Safety features for the new model include eight SRS airbags for the driver, front passenger and rear seats. It also comes standard with Anti-lock Brakes and Electronic Brake-force Distribution. Additional standard equipment includes Brake Assist, Vehicle Stability Control, a brake override system and as if that's not enough, the front seats now have an innovative active head rest system. When a rear collision is detected, they move upward and forward to meet occupant's heads to help reduce the effect of whiplash.

The Toyota Zelas comes in seven colours; Super White, Silver Metallic, Gray Metallic, Cement Gray Metallic, Black, Blackish Red Mica and Dark Blue Mica.

Prices start from BD9,900. For further information about the new Toyota Zelas, contact the Toyota showroom on 17730730.