This website uses cookies
We have placed cookies on your device to provide an optimal user experience.
Loading...

Toyota Soarer Z40, 4 generation 04.2001 - 07.2005

4 generation
(Z40) 04.2001 - 07.2005
CBA-UZZ40, UA-UZZ40
4 generation
Open
In 2001, the Toyota Soarer model underwent major changes, turning into a four-seater car with a metal convertible top, which is controlled by an electric drive. Thanks to such a roof, Soarer moved into the class of so-called coupe-convertibles. Its top is folded and laid out using 10 electric motors in 25 seconds. In terms of size, the car is fully adapted to the standards of the Japanese market. Outside of Japan, the fourth Soarer was known as the Lexus SC430 - he got an 8-cylinder engine with a capacity of 4.3 liters, which is similar to the Toyota Celsior powertrain, combined with a 5-speed automatic.
 When developing a new car, the designers tried to make the car as sporty and elegant as possible, endowing it with high aerodynamic characteristics (drag coefficient Cx = 0.29). But, when compared with the predecessor, it is noticeable that the more voluminous and shorter body of the machine made it a little heavier, so the name “soaring”, according to some critics, is already less suitable for it than for the Z30 series. However, the car is still distinguished by a wealth of interior decoration, a very rich configuration, and most importantly - a combination of the advantages of a coupe and a convertible. The equipment includes natural wood panels and leather trim in a combination of different colors, Mark Levinson audio system with 9 speakers and a 6-disc CD changer, full-position power seats, dual-zone climate control, and a remote key. But instead of the digital tidy, which the former Soarer was famous for, the usual analog is installed.

 Under the hood of the Toyota Soarer, there is a naturally aspirated VU-shaped 8-cylinder 3UZ-FE engine with a working volume of 4.3 liters (4293 cm3), a DOHC design and with a variable valve timing system VVT-i. It develops a maximum power of 280 horsepower at 5600 rpm and a maximum torque of 430 Nm at 3400 rpm. The engine is connected to a five-speed automatic transmission with an intelligent adaptive control system AI-SHIFT, which is able to adapt to the characteristics of the road conditions and the manner of controlling the driver. Fuel consumption (AI-98 gasoline) is declared at 11.8 liters per 100 km. It should be noted that the 3UZ-FE engine is the final version of the V8 UZ series. It is highly reliable, although it requires strict attention to the timing (when the belt breaks, the valve bends), the electronic throttle ETCS-i, the cooling system.

 The Toyota Soarer suspension design retains its previous type: fully independent on double wishbones. Front and rear of the car installed disc brakes (front ventilated). The coupe was equipped with sports tires of size 245 / 40ZR18, while for the first time, the so-called “off-road” tires with RunFlat technology were offered as an option for Soarer, which allow you to continue driving after a puncture, but due to more rigid sidewalls reduce overall comfort. The dimensions of the car are 4515 x 1825 x 1355 mm (L x W x H), compared with the previous generation, the car has become shorter by 385 mm, 20 mm wider and 5 mm higher. The track at the convertible from the previous 1520 mm in front and behind increased to 1550/1530 mm, the turning radius remained at the same value of 5.4 m. The wheelbase size decreased to 2620 mm, which is 70 mm shorter than the predecessor base. So you do not have to expect space in the back - unless the passengers are children. The trunk of Toyota Soarer has a volume of only 135 liters - a significant part of the rear space is reserved for the roof mechanism. Fourth generation Toyota Soarer standard safety systems include dual front airbags and side airbags integrated in the front seats, ABS anti-lock braking system with EBD brake force distribution, TRC traction control and VSC stability control, tire pressure warning light, seat belts with pretensioner and force limiter. The car body meets the strict requirements of crash tests and reliably protects riders from impacts from all sides.

 Toyota Soarer is magnificent externally and internally, but among its minuses, owners sometimes note a feeling of insufficient body rigidity, which manifests itself on the bumps - this feature of many open-top cars can be solved by installing struts. There are problems with the top mechanism, which are often solved by simple lubrication. In general, according to various experts, Toyota Soarer 430SCV and Lexus SC430 are recognized as one of the best among cars of this type in terms of reliability and cost of maintenance. Soarer was produced until 2005, when the official opening of Lexus dealerships in Japan took place, and an updated Lexus SC430 was offered for buyers in exchange.