Guests couldn't wait to try out the new Toyota Fortuner when Toyota Jamaica Limited unveiled it and new pick-ups at the Jamaica Pegasus Hotel, Knutsford Boulevard, New Kingston on Tuesday. - WINSTON SILL/FREELANCE PHOTOGRAPHER
THE PEOPLE of Jamaica and Japan have a lot of things in common and yes, one of them happens to be the love for Toyotas.
Well, that love affair got a little deeper on Tuesday July 12 when Toyota Ja. Ltd. launched two of its latest automobiles at the Jamaica Pegasus Hotel in New Kingston. The 2005 Hilux pick-up and the new Fortuner sports utility vehicle drew the oohs and aahs from the gathering as they emerged from the red sheets that had covered them for most of the evening.
"I am really glad to receive all of you to share the unveiling of Toyota's newest lines. The Hilux, which is totally newly developed as the next generation Toyota pick-up truck and the Fortuner, Toyota's new line of SUV," said managing director of Toyota Ja. Hideo Matsuura.
So it was with a puff (or rather many puffs) of artificial fog that the autos were unveiled. There were three of them to view; a double cab and single cab Hilux and a Fortuner.
COMFORTABLE RIDE
So what makes these models different? Apart from a more sleek design and more leg room (especially with the Hilux in comparison to its ancestors) the vehicles are more fuel efficient, and give a quieter, more comfortable ride. Furthermore, all the elements of a modern auto are in both, from the dual airbags and anti-lock braking system to the keyless entry; all of which was explained by Ramon Contreras of Toyota America's Miami office.
Now everyone wanted to at least sit in the vans, even just for a few minutes to get the new car smell I suppose or probably because that's the closest they think they'll get to one. But Scotia sales representatives, fresh of their 'Wheels' shows were ready to help you finance your new ride.
