Toyota Soarer
Encyclopedia
The Soarer made its first appearance at the 1980 Osaka International Motor Show with the name "EX-8", and the Z10 series Toyota Soarer was produced from February 1981 to December 1985, with 2.0L, 2.8L or 3.0L DOHC I-6 variants. The first generation Soarer debuted with a rear-wheel drive configuration based on the A60 Supra. It boasted numerous technological items, such as touchscreen computer controlled air conditioning climate control (on all models excepting base models which featured standard fan/heater controls), digital speed and tachometer display using LED (that were differentiated between models), among other electronic features.
The suspension utilized Macpherson type front struts with trailing arm type IRS in the rear. The vehicle also came with self-diagnosis maintenance reminders.
There were a number of different engines available.
Early M-TEU powered MZ10s were different in some regards to later MZ10s. Some of the difference are listed below.
The Z10 series Toyota Soarer was honored as Japan's Car of the Year
for the 1981-1982 model years.
The MZ12 was equipped with the following features:
The styling of the second generation Soarer is similar of that of the X80 series Cressida, Mark II, Chaser and Cresta. The Soarer shared its platform with the newly introduced A70 series Supra.
In 1988, TOM'S
released a limited model package named the C5. The 7M-GTE in the Tom's C5 Soarer saw the power upgrades similar to those seen in the Turbo-A Supra of the same year.
In April 1989 a limited 500 unit production of the Aerocabin version was also available. This came with only 2 seats and an electric folding roof. The Aerocabin came with the same specs as the GT-Limited and were only available with the 7M-GTE engine, 4sp automatic transmission, tan leather interior and pearl paint.
In 1988 Soarer Z2 got restyling -grill and rear taillights changed and minor interior changes (climate control, dash). Other than that engines were improved:
Also from that time, M-series engines got oil squirters to cool pistons.
Unlike the A70, the Z20 did not pick up the 2.5L twin turbo 1JZ-GTE. However all models built from May 1989 including the Aerocabin did have a revised crossmember making the 1JZ-GTE conversion easier.
The following table provided courtesy of www.z20soarer.org/forums.
division outside of Japan, Toyota commissioned its California design studio Calty
to develop a new luxury coupe. In 1991, this vehicle debuted in the U.S. as the Lexus SC 300/400. In the same year, the third generation Toyota Soarer debuted in Japan as the Z30 series, replacing the Z20 series in that market. The Z30 series Soarer shared the body and key components with the Lexus SC, but featured different interior features, powertrain configurations, and other performance enhancements.
This new Soarer continued some of the features that Toyota had pioneered on the earlier models, such as digital dash instrumentation and integrated car systems control via the in-dash EMV touchscreen. For example, it was now one of the first cars in the world to feature factory GPS navigation via cd-rom, continuing the Toyota/Lexus tradition of not only equalling but surpassing the established luxury brands in price, quality and features. It had a luxury feel to it, yet the 2.5GT twin turbo model in particular was truly a very powerful sports car as well. Not surprising though, given its 1JZ-GTE engine was used for the MKIII Supra as well. Although the chassis is more akin the MKIV Supra with suspension, brakes, drivetrain, and engine pieces interchangeable for the most part.
The Toyota Soarers made from the years 1991-2000 were offered with a 4-speed automatic transmission
for all models. In addition, the JZZ30 Soarer could be had with a 5-speed manual transmission
. All models were available with a Torsen
torque-sensing differential. Unlike their US Lexus equivalents however, the 30-series Soarer lineup never received a 5-speed automatic, and only the six cylinder versions received variable valve timing (VVTi) engines, in 1996. Also, the UZZ30 (equivalent to the Lexus SC400) was only sold from 1991 to 1993, and the JZZ31 (equivalent to the Lexus SC300) was not introduced to the Japanese market until 1994.
Styling-wise, the Soarer received only minor changes to (e.g. rear lights, front grille and front/rear bumpers as well as the addition of side-skirts) during its 9-year production run, a testament to the original design.
Starting in 1997, the Soarer was used as a high speed patrol car in multiple Japanese prefectures, using the 2.5GT trim with a 5-speed manual transmission.
The JZZ30 was powered by the 2.5 litre 1JZ-GTE
turbocharged engine. Initially featuring two identical small turbos running together (unlike the sequential twin turbo systems of the Supra and Mazda RX-7, for example), it officially produced 206 kW and 363 newton metre of torque at 4800 rpm. This was in keeping with the Japanese Manufacturers' advertised power limit agreement, however real-world power outputs were somewhat higher. In August 1996 the engine received Toyota's variable valve timing system (VVTi) and in conjunction with a single, more efficient turbocharger, produced much better high and mid-range torque (in fact, 378 newton metre at just 2400 rpm - see The Toyota JZ Engine Guide below) while still producing the "official" 206 kW of power and better fuel economy.
The JZZ31 was powered by the 3 litre 2JZ-GE
engine which initially produced 165 kW at 5800 rpm and 285 newton metre of torque at 4800 rpm. Like the JZZ30 the engine also received Toyota's VVTi system in 1997 which increased output to 169 kW at 6000 rpm and 304 newton metre at 4000 rpm while simultaneously improving fuel economy. While the SC300 in the US market became a popular Lexus for performance upgrades due to its shared engine with the MKIV (JZA80) Supra, the JZZ31 Soarer was somewhat overlooked since unlike the SC300 it was never offered in manual gearbox form and had neither the performance appeal of the turbocharged JZZ30 nor the luxury and equipment of the UZZ31/32 models.
However with the increasing cost (and slowing sales) of the V8 Soarer GT-L models in the mid-late '90s, the JZZ31 would remain in production along with the JZZ30 until the end of the 30 Series in 2000.
The UZZ30 series Soarer was used as the base vehicle for the Lexus SC400 exported into the United States, although to satisfy local markets, a comprehensive listing of luxury options were offered. Local Japanese Soarers all came with an electronic dashboard which used an internal mirror to display the dashboard holographically. It really is a beautiful design and has stood the test of time, yet this was never offered on a USA spec model. These cars came with a standard dash layout comprising round dials and lit needles similar to the LS400 Lexus.
The UZZ31 and UZZ32 Soarers were the luxury GT versions of the range, with substantially more features and equipment than the 6 cylinder models and the Lexus SC300/400. The EMV (Electro Multi Vision) touchscreen system which was pioneered in the Z10 and Z20 Soarers was again available and provided a screen with television, GPS navigation, diagnostics, car computer, reversing camera and touch control of all functions of the climate control and sophisticated 7-speaker (with subwoofer) balanced-signal audio system with 12-disc CD stacker and digital signal processing.
Both models and the base-spec UZZ30 were powered by Toyota's acclaimed 1UZ-FE
quad-cam all-alloy 4 litre V8. While producing marginally less power and torque than the turbocharged JZZ30 (191 kW at 5400 rpm, 353 newton metre at 4600 rpm) the V8, called the 4.0GT-L was renowned for its smoothness and refinement. Although receiving a minor update in 1995 which improved responsiveness and bumped outputs to 195 kW / 363 newton metre, production of the V8-equipped Soarers ended before the powerplant received VVTi which substantially increased outputs in the Lexus SC400 and other models. However, supercharged and turbocharged modifications are becoming increasingly common given the strength and durability of the engine, and power outputs up to double the factory levels are being seen on internally-standard engines.
The UZZ31 featured a driver-adjustable air suspension system that had two settings for both ride height and damper stiffness. The air 'bag' pressure was controlled by an electric pump mounted at the front of the car. Also featured on the UZZ31 series were a host of electronic goodies including automatic headlights, speed-sensitive wipers, electric controlled and heated seats with two-position memory, electronic collapsible steering column with memory, reversing camera, cabin air purifying system, touch screen TV with 12 stack CD player, touch screen SatNav, and a full on board computer diagnostic system which would output to the TV display unit.
The UZZ32 was the top of the line 30 series featuring all of the options available on the UZZ31 but with the added feature of four wheel steering and a complex hydro-pneumatic, computer-controlled active suspension system. This did away with conventional springs and anti-roll (stabiliser) bars in favour of hydraulic struts controlled by an array of sensors (such as yaw velocity sensors, vertical G sensors, height sensors, wheel speed sensors, longitudinal and lateral G sensors) that detected cornering, acceleration and braking forces. The system worked well and gave an unusually controlled yet smooth ride with no body roll. However, the additional weight of the system affected straight-line performance somewhat so a re-mapped ECU was introduced to allow better 'off line' performance. The car was costly to produce and at close to 8million Yen in 1995, expensive to buy. As a result, only 873 UZZ32's were made and are now collectors items in the UK and Australia. The UZZ32 Soarer became the second shortest production run model for Toyota following the 2000GT in the late 60's.
since 2001. The Z40 series Soarer 430SCV featured a hardtop which could fold into the boot of the car, in the fashion of the contemporary Mercedes-Benz SL. The coupe was equipped with the 3UZ-FE VVTi (variable valve timing) 4.3 litre V8 motor, as was available in the Lexus LS 430 luxury sedan. It produced 208 kW and 430 newton metre of torque. This enabled the coupe to accelerate from a standstill to 62 mph (99.8 km/h) in 6 seconds. The shared body style of the Z40 series Soarer/SC 430 was developed by Toyota designers at design studios in France and Japan. Compared with the Z30 series, some observers generally considered the fourth generation a retreat in visual style due to its more compact and top heavy appearance. As a result it had lost the long sleek look previously seen and admired greatly in the Z30 series models.
With the Z40 series Soarer, design and production synergies
culminated in the development of a single shared design configuration for both the Soarer and Lexus models, unlike the previous generations. The rise of Lexus as Toyota's premium worldwide marque also contributed to the design focus on the Lexus model configuration rather than a separate Toyota-branded series of Soarer coupes. On July 26, 2005, Lexus was introduced in Japan with the 2006 SC 430 TSOOH in its lineup. The debut of Lexus and the SC 430 coincided with the conclusion of Toyota Soarer sales.
The suspension utilized Macpherson type front struts with trailing arm type IRS in the rear. The vehicle also came with self-diagnosis maintenance reminders.
There were a number of different engines available.
- GZ10=1G-EU, 1G-GEU
- MZ10=M-TEU
- MZ11=5M-GEU
- MZ12=6M-GEU
Early M-TEU powered MZ10s were different in some regards to later MZ10s. Some of the difference are listed below.
- Later MZ10s had a water to air intercooler
- Later MZ10s had an oil and water cooled turbo (as opposed to the oil cooled only turbo in the early MZ10s)
The Z10 series Toyota Soarer was honored as Japan's Car of the Year
Car of the Year Japan
The annual Car of the Year Japan award, also known as Japan Car of the Year , is given to newly released or redesigned vehicles released to the Japanese car buying market from November 1 of the previous year to October 31 of the current, and each award spans two calendar years. The award has been...
for the 1981-1982 model years.
The MZ12 was equipped with the following features:
- ABS
- Cruise Control
- 7 way adjustable (driver only) leather seats
- Toyota Electronically Modulated Suspension (TEMS)
- Digital Automatic climate control
- Audible Warning messages
- Electro multivision display (CRT type display), GT LTD Only
Z20 series (1986–1991)
The Z20 series Toyota Soarer was produced from January 1986 to April 1991, and was available in several variants.The styling of the second generation Soarer is similar of that of the X80 series Cressida, Mark II, Chaser and Cresta. The Soarer shared its platform with the newly introduced A70 series Supra.
In 1988, TOM'S
TOM'S
is a factory supported racing team and tuner of Toyota and Lexus vehicles. The name stands for Tachi Oiwa Motor Sport. Their head office is located in Tokyo, Japan. They are currently heavily involved with Super GT racing and Formula 3 racing...
released a limited model package named the C5. The 7M-GTE in the Tom's C5 Soarer saw the power upgrades similar to those seen in the Turbo-A Supra of the same year.
In April 1989 a limited 500 unit production of the Aerocabin version was also available. This came with only 2 seats and an electric folding roof. The Aerocabin came with the same specs as the GT-Limited and were only available with the 7M-GTE engine, 4sp automatic transmission, tan leather interior and pearl paint.
In 1988 Soarer Z2 got restyling -grill and rear taillights changed and minor interior changes (climate control, dash). Other than that engines were improved:
- 1G-GTEU 180 -> 157 kW
- 7M-GTEU 230 -> 179 kW
Also from that time, M-series engines got oil squirters to cool pistons.
Unlike the A70, the Z20 did not pick up the 2.5L twin turbo 1JZ-GTE. However all models built from May 1989 including the Aerocabin did have a revised crossmember making the 1JZ-GTE conversion easier.
The following table provided courtesy of www.z20soarer.org/forums.
| model code | chassis code | grade | year | engine | transmission | weight (kg) | turbo | notes | |
| GZ20 | HCMEE | 2.0 VZ | 1986.1-1987.12 | 1G-EU | W57 5 speed M/T | 1300 | N/A | 87.1- +10 kg | |
| HCPEE | A42DL Toyota A transmission Toyota Motor Corporation's A family is a family of automatic FWD/RWD/4WD transmissions built by Aisin-Warner. They share much in common with Volvo's AW7* and Aisin-Warner's 03-71* transmissions, which are found in Suzukis, Mitsubishis, and other Asian vehicles.A = Aisin AutomaticSecond last digit... 4 speed A/T |
1310 | |||||||
| HCMGE | 2.0 VX | 1986.1-1988.12 | W57 5 speed M/T | 1320 | 88.1- +20 kg | ||||
| HCPGE | A42DE Toyota A transmission Toyota Motor Corporation's A family is a family of automatic FWD/RWD/4WD transmissions built by Aisin-Warner. They share much in common with Volvo's AW7* and Aisin-Warner's 03-71* transmissions, which are found in Suzukis, Mitsubishis, and other Asian vehicles.A = Aisin AutomaticSecond last digit... 4 speed A/T |
1330 | |||||||
| HCMGK | 1989.1-1991.4 | 1G-FE | W57 5 speed M/T | 1350 | ESC Electronic stability control Electronic stability control is a computerized technology that may potentially improve the safety of a vehicle's stability by detecting and minimizing skids. When ESC detects loss of steering control, it automatically applies the brakes to help "steer" the vehicle where the driver intends to go... |
||||
| HCPGK | A42DE Toyota A transmission Toyota Motor Corporation's A family is a family of automatic FWD/RWD/4WD transmissions built by Aisin-Warner. They share much in common with Volvo's AW7* and Aisin-Warner's 03-71* transmissions, which are found in Suzukis, Mitsubishis, and other Asian vehicles.A = Aisin AutomaticSecond last digit... 4 speed A/T |
1360 | |||||||
| HCMVF | 2.0 GT | 1986.1-1991.4 | 1G-GEU | W55 5 speed M/T | 1330 | 87.1- +10 kg, 88.1- +30 kg and ESC Electronic stability control Electronic stability control is a computerized technology that may potentially improve the safety of a vehicle's stability by detecting and minimizing skids. When ESC detects loss of steering control, it automatically applies the brakes to help "steer" the vehicle where the driver intends to go... |
|||
| HCPVF | A42DE Toyota A transmission Toyota Motor Corporation's A family is a family of automatic FWD/RWD/4WD transmissions built by Aisin-Warner. They share much in common with Volvo's AW7* and Aisin-Warner's 03-71* transmissions, which are found in Suzukis, Mitsubishis, and other Asian vehicles.A = Aisin AutomaticSecond last digit... 4 speed A/T |
1340 | 89.1- A340E 4 speed A/T | ||||||
| HCMVZ | 2.0 GT-TWIN TURBO | 1G-GTE | W57 5 speed M/T | 1400 | Twin CT-12 | 87.1- +10 kg and ESC Electronic stability control Electronic stability control is a computerized technology that may potentially improve the safety of a vehicle's stability by detecting and minimizing skids. When ESC detects loss of steering control, it automatically applies the brakes to help "steer" the vehicle where the driver intends to go... , 88.1- +20 kg |
88.1- W58 5 speed M/T | ||
| HCPVZ | A340E 4 speed A/T | 1420 | |||||||
| HCMZZ | 2.0 GT-TWIN TURBO L | 1988.1-1991.4 | W58 5 speed M/T | 1430 | ESC Electronic stability control Electronic stability control is a computerized technology that may potentially improve the safety of a vehicle's stability by detecting and minimizing skids. When ESC detects loss of steering control, it automatically applies the brakes to help "steer" the vehicle where the driver intends to go... |
||||
| HCPZZ | A340E 4 speed A/T | 1450 | |||||||
| MZ20 | HCMZZ | 3.0 GT | 1987.1-1991.4 | 7M-GTE | R154 5 speed M/T | 1490 | CT-26 | 87.1- +20 kg, 88.1-+ 20 kg, 89.1- +10 kg | |
| HCPVZ | 1986.1-1991.4 | A340E 4 speed A/T | 1470 | ||||||
| HJPVZ | 3.0 GT AEROCABIN | 1989.4 | A340E 4 speed A/T | 1610 | Limited run of 500 units | ||||
| HCMZZ | 3.0 GT LIMITED | 1987.1-1991.4 | R154 5 speed M/T | 1520 | 87.1- +20 kg | 88.1- +10 kg | |||
| HCPZZ | 1986.1-1991.4 | A340E 4 speed A/T | 1500 | ||||||
| MZ21 | HCMZZ | 1987.1-1991.4 | R154 5 speed M/T | 1520 | Air suspension | ||||
| HCPZZ | 1986.1-1991.4 | A340E 4 speed A/T | 1520 | ||||||
| ESC Electronic stability control Electronic stability control is a computerized technology that may potentially improve the safety of a vehicle's stability by detecting and minimizing skids. When ESC detects loss of steering control, it automatically applies the brakes to help "steer" the vehicle where the driver intends to go... (optional) = +10 kg, Sunroof (optional on all models except the aerocabin)= +20 kg |
|||||||||
Z30 series (1991-2000)
In 1990, following the successful launch of its upscale LexusLexus
is the luxury vehicle division of Japanese automaker Toyota Motor Corporation. First introduced in 1989 in the United States, Lexus is now sold globally and has become Japan's largest-selling make of premium cars. The Lexus marque is marketed in over 70 countries and territories worldwide, and has...
division outside of Japan, Toyota commissioned its California design studio Calty
Calty Design Research
Calty Design Research Incorporated is a Toyota design studio established in 1973. They have two facilities: one in Newport Beach, California and another in Ann Arbor, Michigan. Calty's primary focus is exterior styling...
to develop a new luxury coupe. In 1991, this vehicle debuted in the U.S. as the Lexus SC 300/400. In the same year, the third generation Toyota Soarer debuted in Japan as the Z30 series, replacing the Z20 series in that market. The Z30 series Soarer shared the body and key components with the Lexus SC, but featured different interior features, powertrain configurations, and other performance enhancements.
This new Soarer continued some of the features that Toyota had pioneered on the earlier models, such as digital dash instrumentation and integrated car systems control via the in-dash EMV touchscreen. For example, it was now one of the first cars in the world to feature factory GPS navigation via cd-rom, continuing the Toyota/Lexus tradition of not only equalling but surpassing the established luxury brands in price, quality and features. It had a luxury feel to it, yet the 2.5GT twin turbo model in particular was truly a very powerful sports car as well. Not surprising though, given its 1JZ-GTE engine was used for the MKIII Supra as well. Although the chassis is more akin the MKIV Supra with suspension, brakes, drivetrain, and engine pieces interchangeable for the most part.
The Toyota Soarers made from the years 1991-2000 were offered with a 4-speed automatic transmission
Automatic transmission
An automatic transmission is one type of motor vehicle transmission that can automatically change gear ratios as the vehicle moves, freeing the driver from having to shift gears manually...
for all models. In addition, the JZZ30 Soarer could be had with a 5-speed manual transmission
Manual transmission
A manual transmission, also known as a manual gearbox or standard transmission is a type of transmission used in motor vehicle applications...
. All models were available with a Torsen
Torsen
Torsen is a type of differential used in automobiles. It was invented by American Vernon Gleasman and manufactured by the Gleason Corporation. Torsen is a contraction of Torque-Sensing...
torque-sensing differential. Unlike their US Lexus equivalents however, the 30-series Soarer lineup never received a 5-speed automatic, and only the six cylinder versions received variable valve timing (VVTi) engines, in 1996. Also, the UZZ30 (equivalent to the Lexus SC400) was only sold from 1991 to 1993, and the JZZ31 (equivalent to the Lexus SC300) was not introduced to the Japanese market until 1994.
Styling-wise, the Soarer received only minor changes to (e.g. rear lights, front grille and front/rear bumpers as well as the addition of side-skirts) during its 9-year production run, a testament to the original design.
Starting in 1997, the Soarer was used as a high speed patrol car in multiple Japanese prefectures, using the 2.5GT trim with a 5-speed manual transmission.
Z30 series Soarer models
| model | year | engine | power (kW) | torque (Nm) | turbo | transmissions | notes |
| JZZ30 | 1991-96 | 1JZ-GTE (2.5 L I6) | 206 kW | 363 newton metre | twin parallel | manual, auto | |
| 1997–2000 | 1JZ-GTE (2.5 L I6), VVT-i VVT-i VVT-i, or Variable Valve Timing with intelligence, is an automobile variable valve timing technology developed by Toyota, similar in performance to the BMW's VANOS. The Toyota VVT-i system replaces the Toyota VVT offered starting in 24 December 1991 on the 5-valve per cylinder 4A-GE engine. The... |
206 kW | 378 newton metre | single | manual, auto | ||
| JZZ31 | 1994-96 | 2JZ-GE (3.0 L I6) | 165 kW | 285 newton metre | none | auto | equivalent to Lexus SC300 |
| 1997–2000 | 2JZ-GE (3.0 L I6), VVT-i | 169 kW | 304 newton metre | none | auto | equivalent to Lexus SC300 | |
| UZZ30 | 1991-93 | 1UZ-FE (4.0 V8) | 191 kW | 353 newton metre | none | auto | equivalent to Lexus SC400 |
| UZZ31 | 1991-97 | 1UZ-FE (4.0 V8) | 191/195 | 353/363 | none | auto | airbag suspension, "EMV" TV/touchscreen system |
| UZZ32 | 1991-96 | 1UZ-FE (4.0 V8) | 191/195 | 353/363 | none | auto | active suspension, four-wheel steering, "EMV" TV/touchscreen system |
JZZ30 Soarer
The JZZ30 was the only model sold continuously from the introduction of the 30 series in 1991 until production ceased in 2000. As the sportiest model in the range it was also the only one available with a manual transmission. Like other models in the range there were two different equipment grades available, the base GT-T and the better-equipped GT-TL which added electric seats, wood trim, cruise control and Toyota's TEMS electronic damper adjustment to the list of standard features.The JZZ30 was powered by the 2.5 litre 1JZ-GTE
Toyota JZ engine
The Toyota JZ engine family is a series of inline-6 automobile engines. A replacement for the M-series inline-6 engines, the JZ engines were 24-valve DOHC engines. The JZ engine was offered in 2.5 and 3.0 litre versions.-1JZ:...
turbocharged engine. Initially featuring two identical small turbos running together (unlike the sequential twin turbo systems of the Supra and Mazda RX-7, for example), it officially produced 206 kW and 363 newton metre of torque at 4800 rpm. This was in keeping with the Japanese Manufacturers' advertised power limit agreement, however real-world power outputs were somewhat higher. In August 1996 the engine received Toyota's variable valve timing system (VVTi) and in conjunction with a single, more efficient turbocharger, produced much better high and mid-range torque (in fact, 378 newton metre at just 2400 rpm - see The Toyota JZ Engine Guide below) while still producing the "official" 206 kW of power and better fuel economy.
JZZ31 Soarer
While the Lexus SC300 was available from the start of the new series' US introduction in 1991, the equivalent Japan-market Soarer model — the JZZ31 — was not introduced until 1994, where it became the new base model Soarer.The JZZ31 was powered by the 3 litre 2JZ-GE
Toyota JZ engine
The Toyota JZ engine family is a series of inline-6 automobile engines. A replacement for the M-series inline-6 engines, the JZ engines were 24-valve DOHC engines. The JZ engine was offered in 2.5 and 3.0 litre versions.-1JZ:...
engine which initially produced 165 kW at 5800 rpm and 285 newton metre of torque at 4800 rpm. Like the JZZ30 the engine also received Toyota's VVTi system in 1997 which increased output to 169 kW at 6000 rpm and 304 newton metre at 4000 rpm while simultaneously improving fuel economy. While the SC300 in the US market became a popular Lexus for performance upgrades due to its shared engine with the MKIV (JZA80) Supra, the JZZ31 Soarer was somewhat overlooked since unlike the SC300 it was never offered in manual gearbox form and had neither the performance appeal of the turbocharged JZZ30 nor the luxury and equipment of the UZZ31/32 models.
However with the increasing cost (and slowing sales) of the V8 Soarer GT-L models in the mid-late '90s, the JZZ31 would remain in production along with the JZZ30 until the end of the 30 Series in 2000.
UZZ30, UZZ31 and UZZ32 Soarer
The UZZ30 was introduced in Japan as the 'base' model of the V8 powered 30 series lineup. Fitted with the same 4.0 litre quad cam V8 as the UZZ31/32, it benefited in the performance stakes due to its considerably lighter weight. The UZZ30 used a standard Tokiko coilover suspension setup, basic stereo system, manual steering column, and very few electronic aids. Velour fabric seats were standard with leather as an option. No power or memory seats were available. As the car was substantially lighter due to the exclusion of all the 'luxury fruit' they are a considered a driver's car, with good power, handling and braking.The UZZ30 series Soarer was used as the base vehicle for the Lexus SC400 exported into the United States, although to satisfy local markets, a comprehensive listing of luxury options were offered. Local Japanese Soarers all came with an electronic dashboard which used an internal mirror to display the dashboard holographically. It really is a beautiful design and has stood the test of time, yet this was never offered on a USA spec model. These cars came with a standard dash layout comprising round dials and lit needles similar to the LS400 Lexus.
The UZZ31 and UZZ32 Soarers were the luxury GT versions of the range, with substantially more features and equipment than the 6 cylinder models and the Lexus SC300/400. The EMV (Electro Multi Vision) touchscreen system which was pioneered in the Z10 and Z20 Soarers was again available and provided a screen with television, GPS navigation, diagnostics, car computer, reversing camera and touch control of all functions of the climate control and sophisticated 7-speaker (with subwoofer) balanced-signal audio system with 12-disc CD stacker and digital signal processing.
Both models and the base-spec UZZ30 were powered by Toyota's acclaimed 1UZ-FE
Toyota UZ engine
The Toyota UZ engine family is a 32-valve quad-camshaft V8 piston engine series used in Toyota's luxury offerings and sport utility vehicles. Three basic versions have been produced, the 1UZ-FE, 2UZ-FE, and 3UZ-FE...
quad-cam all-alloy 4 litre V8. While producing marginally less power and torque than the turbocharged JZZ30 (191 kW at 5400 rpm, 353 newton metre at 4600 rpm) the V8, called the 4.0GT-L was renowned for its smoothness and refinement. Although receiving a minor update in 1995 which improved responsiveness and bumped outputs to 195 kW / 363 newton metre, production of the V8-equipped Soarers ended before the powerplant received VVTi which substantially increased outputs in the Lexus SC400 and other models. However, supercharged and turbocharged modifications are becoming increasingly common given the strength and durability of the engine, and power outputs up to double the factory levels are being seen on internally-standard engines.
The UZZ31 featured a driver-adjustable air suspension system that had two settings for both ride height and damper stiffness. The air 'bag' pressure was controlled by an electric pump mounted at the front of the car. Also featured on the UZZ31 series were a host of electronic goodies including automatic headlights, speed-sensitive wipers, electric controlled and heated seats with two-position memory, electronic collapsible steering column with memory, reversing camera, cabin air purifying system, touch screen TV with 12 stack CD player, touch screen SatNav, and a full on board computer diagnostic system which would output to the TV display unit.
The UZZ32 was the top of the line 30 series featuring all of the options available on the UZZ31 but with the added feature of four wheel steering and a complex hydro-pneumatic, computer-controlled active suspension system. This did away with conventional springs and anti-roll (stabiliser) bars in favour of hydraulic struts controlled by an array of sensors (such as yaw velocity sensors, vertical G sensors, height sensors, wheel speed sensors, longitudinal and lateral G sensors) that detected cornering, acceleration and braking forces. The system worked well and gave an unusually controlled yet smooth ride with no body roll. However, the additional weight of the system affected straight-line performance somewhat so a re-mapped ECU was introduced to allow better 'off line' performance. The car was costly to produce and at close to 8million Yen in 1995, expensive to buy. As a result, only 873 UZZ32's were made and are now collectors items in the UK and Australia. The UZZ32 Soarer became the second shortest production run model for Toyota following the 2000GT in the late 60's.
Z40 series (2001-2005)
The 40 series Soarer model was largely identical to its Lexus equivalent, sold outside Japan as the Lexus SC 430Lexus SC
The Lexus SC is a personal luxury coupé that was retailed by Lexus, and built from 1991 through 2010. It features a front engine, rear-wheel drive design and seating for up to four passengers. The first generation SC debuted as the V8-powered SC 400 in 1991, and the I6-powered SC 300 was added in...
since 2001. The Z40 series Soarer 430SCV featured a hardtop which could fold into the boot of the car, in the fashion of the contemporary Mercedes-Benz SL. The coupe was equipped with the 3UZ-FE VVTi (variable valve timing) 4.3 litre V8 motor, as was available in the Lexus LS 430 luxury sedan. It produced 208 kW and 430 newton metre of torque. This enabled the coupe to accelerate from a standstill to 62 mph (99.8 km/h) in 6 seconds. The shared body style of the Z40 series Soarer/SC 430 was developed by Toyota designers at design studios in France and Japan. Compared with the Z30 series, some observers generally considered the fourth generation a retreat in visual style due to its more compact and top heavy appearance. As a result it had lost the long sleek look previously seen and admired greatly in the Z30 series models.
With the Z40 series Soarer, design and production synergies
Synergy
Synergy may be defined as two or more things functioning together to produce a result not independently obtainable.The term synergy comes from the Greek word from , , meaning "working together".-Definitions and usages:...
culminated in the development of a single shared design configuration for both the Soarer and Lexus models, unlike the previous generations. The rise of Lexus as Toyota's premium worldwide marque also contributed to the design focus on the Lexus model configuration rather than a separate Toyota-branded series of Soarer coupes. On July 26, 2005, Lexus was introduced in Japan with the 2006 SC 430 TSOOH in its lineup. The debut of Lexus and the SC 430 coincided with the conclusion of Toyota Soarer sales.