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Walkaround
Our Nordic Blue Metallic T100 SR5 test vehicle greeted us with a refreshing and unmistakably Toyota front grille and bumper configuration. The center-mount chrome grille was backed by black crack-resistant plastic and flanked by dual halogen headlamps and wraparound amber side marker lamps, both covered by crack-resistant plastic lenses. The chromed front bumper was centered vertically and horizontally on the front facade and displayed integrated amber turn signal lamps. Aerodynamics include a large black air dam underneath the bumper and rounded front fenders flowing back to the most distinguishing characteristics of the T100 SR5s profile: boldly flared fenders with wheel openings that reflect truly inventive use of the designer's curve. That flaring and unique curvature are carried through to the rear fender treatments. Standard, monochromatic, styled aluminum wheels, chromed wheel opening lips and bold, raised-letter Toyota T100" chrome insignia complete this pickup's eye-pleasing appearance. Our T100 SR5s cargo box was covered by a standard vinyl liner as was the detachable tailgate. A chrome bumper includes provision for a light-duty tow hitch. Rear mud flaps are standard."
Interior Features
Sliding in through the seemingly oversized door opening, it became apparent that Toyota has gone out of its way to avoid the boxy, klutzy look and feel of more conventional truck designs. The instrument panel and dashboard were curved and flowed smoothly to the windshield. Analog speedometer and tachometer displays were easily readable through the steering wheel and were flanked by temperature, fuel, oil pressure and battery gauges.Alongside, perfectly contoured armrests stretch nearly the full width of the doors and feature strategically placed finger inserts for easy door opening and closing. The power door locks and power side view mirror controls of our fully equipped T100 SR5 were positioned on the front of the driver-side armrest. The same level of thoughtful placement applies to all of the controls as well as the bevy of map pockets and storage compartments. This includes the reasonably sized covered compartment in the fold-down center armrest of the 60/40 contoured bench seat. Seats are comfortable and on the firm side, with good lumbar support and integral contoured headrests. Visibility all around is excellent. Map, entry/exit and overhead lighting is ample and nice positioned. Under way, the virtual absence of wind noise pays tribute to the quality of soundproofing and interior materials as well as to the integrity of the design and manufacture of the T100 SR5. The capacious box affords 49.2 inches between the wheel wells so, yes, it will consume the benchmark 4-by-8 panel. Loading can be a two-tier affair and as mentioned earlier, the cargo box and tailgate are protected by a standard factory-installed liner The detachable gate also features an outside locking handle so lads can push right up against the inside of the tailgate without impeding opening.
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