Akio Toyoda is the man. More specifically, he's the man now in charge of Toyota, which in Japan pretty much makes you the biggest of the big shots.
He introduced the Toyota FT-86 concept today and it was pretty clear that although he also introduced a plug-in Prius and an electric iQ, the new FT-86 sports car was his favorite.
In fact, Toyoda actually went out of his way at the press conference to note his fondness for the FT-86. He said, "Toyota used to build fun cars like this, cars like the Supra, and it makes me sad that we don't anymore."
How's that for a little show of enthusiasm from the man in charge?
More photos after the break.
Ed Hellwig, Lead Senior Editor, Inside Line
dougtheeng says:
07:20 AM, 10/21/09
I like it a lot.
zoomzoomn says:
07:44 AM, 10/21/09
If Toyota brings this and the new Japan market only Mark X to the U.S. as Scion models they could put that division back on the map and give it a real place in Toyota's grand scheme of things. Scion badly needs a reason to live (read models worth buying).
stingray454 says:
08:00 AM, 10/21/09
Nice looking car, and I haven't said that about a Toyota in I can't remember when. The only thing that concerns me is they're calling it a "concept." Hopefully the production version won't be watered down to a blah mobile.
I like the new man in charge - I think some exciting product will come from Toyota under his direction, which will be a refreshing change for the better. Of course if they get too exciting, Consumer Reports will stop recommending them.
cino_iconic says:
09:09 AM, 10/21/09
They should offer 2 engine on this car.With 2.0L, this car will be the new Hachiroku(AE86). and with 3.0L this car will be the new Supra. However, Toyota need to make it a lightweight sport car.
felonious says:
09:40 AM, 10/21/09
I'm a huge fan of Mr. Toyoda. He is delivering on his promises.
thefuture1 says:
11:25 AM, 10/21/09
First i would like congratulate Akio Toyoda for bring back excitement to the Toyota line-up. The Ft-86 looks great and i cant wait to till the production model is released.
hondacura4 says:
03:56 PM, 10/21/09
Let me get this straight. Toyota, the mother of all things boring is building a sports car....and a (Lexus) super car while Honda's most exciting product is a 6 speed MT 2 seat hybrid. My have things changed.