Toyota updates Connected Services suite

TOYOTA has unveiled an extensive update (version five) to its Connected Services technology suite that arrives this week as standard equipment on its new Corolla Cross – and will be progressively rolled out on new and updated models as they arrive in Australia.

The app-based services bundle provides owners with vehicle information and remote-control features that may be accessed from a smartphone or tablet, and includes features relating to safety, security, and convenience, including the ability to lock and unlock the doors, start the engine, and activate the headlights or climate control.

Offered as a complimentary service for the first 12 months of ownership, the program is thereafter subscription based with three packages available.

The first, dubbed Toyota Essentials, remains free of charge throughout the warranty period (five years) with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity as standard, SOS emergency call, automatic collision notification, and remote access to vehicle details including fuel level, odometer reading, distance to empty, and door and window status.

Mid-tier Toyota Connect +, which is available from $9.95 per month, adds stolen vehicle tracking, the ability to remote lock/unlock the doors and boot, engine start and climate control activation, notifications of when the vehicle is being used by another driver, driving insights (which Toyota says help to support both safe and economical driving), and access to recent trip and vehicle location data.

Finally, and separately, top-tier Toyota Connected Multimedia allows owners full access to the available suite of technology offerings from $12.50 per month. These include connected navigation, ‘Hey Toyota’ voice assistant, connected trip and multimedia profiles, adding navigation and trip settings for up to three drivers.

Toyota said seven models are already available with the initial released of its Connected Services (version four) system including Camry, Fortuner, Granvia, HiAce, HiLux, LandCruiser 300 Series, and Yaris Cross. These models receive three years’ complimentary access to the technology, and like the system available on Corolla Cross will continue to be supported by the basic Toyota Essentials service thereafter.

An optional subscription fee of $4.95 per month after the initial complimentary period allows access to stolen vehicle tracking and status connect technologies.

Toyota Australia said that since its introduction, Toyota Connected Services has helped police agencies nationally to recover more than 30 stolen vehicles.

"Our new Toyota Connected Services are designed to provide an even better driving experience with an array of technologies focused on making ownership even easier, safer and more enjoyable," said Toyota Australia vice president of sales, marketing and franchise operations, Sean Hanley.

More information about Toyota Connected Services is available here.