2012 Toyota Tarago Gets Price Cut, New Automatic Transmission

Toyota Australia has given its ageing Tarago people-mover a boost this week, bringing the cost of entry below $50,000 and adding a new automatic transmission.

For 2012, the 2.4 litre four-cylinder GLi and GLX models get a six-speed auto as standard, bringing the spec in-line with the 3.5 litre six-cylinder six-speed variants.

The new transmission reduces the four-cylinder engine's fuel consumption from 9.5 l/100km to 8.9 l/100km.

The four-cylinder GLI also gets a $3500 price cut to $48,990 - matching its price at launch in March 2006, despite a higher level of standard equipment, including seven airbags, stability and traction control, and brake assist.

The price cuts continue with $2000 off the four-cylinder GLX, $2300 off the V6 GLi and $1300 off the top-shelf V6 Ultima.

All Tarago models are now equipped with Toyota's multi-function Optitron instrument display in the dash, and push-button start is also standard across the range for 2012. V6 GLX and Ultima models also benefit from keyless Smart Entry.