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Toyota NZ to introduce connected vehicles for smarter, safer journeys
Toyota Connected Services is coming to New Zealand, firstly in the sixth generation RAV4.
Toyota is bringing connected vehicle capabilities to New Zealand beginning with the sixth generation RAV4 arriving in early 2026 and the new generation Lexus ES sedan later in 2026.
Toyota Connected Services will offer an advanced suite of smart technologies designed to simplify everyday life and provide a new layer of driver interaction, control, safety and security to vehicles. Only Toyota vehicles fitted with an active Connected Services system will provide Connected Service. 1
Toyota Connected Services in New Zealand will include SOS emergency call and automatic collision notification in case of an accident, and stolen vehicle tracking. Toyota has been working on this technology for some time for customer safety and to enhance the ownership experience. The system will give peace of mind to the driver on a 24/7 basis. 1,3,4,5
As well as safety features, Toyota Connected Services will offer a range of convenience functions for the driver and passengers which are accessible via the myToyota Connected app. Remote functions include vehicle start, lock/unlock and climate control management. Customers can also access vehicle insights including their tyre pressure, odometer, distance to empty, vehicle locator, and notifications on unlocked doors and open windows. 1,2
The new generation RAV4 will be Toyota New Zealand’s first vehicle to offer our latest multimedia system, which features a bigger and better-looking display, a customisable home screen and common function widgets, and faster and smarter voice recognition as well as many other features.
Toyota NZ Assistant Vice President, Albertus Mulder, says the goal with Toyota Connected Services is to deliver an enhanced ownership experience via better voice controls, integrated services and a mobile application that provides access to useful vehicle-related information and services.1
“Toyota Connected Services and the latest multimedia update changes the way a customer interacts with their vehicle. Not only does it provide a completely new emergency response system, but it gives the owner access to far more information through quick, voice activated controls and a better display screen while at the wheel as well as vehicle information and controls via an app when away from the vehicle,” he says.
Toyota’s latest multimedia update includes new features designed with customers in mind, while also showcasing Toyota’s emphasis on continuous improvement and quality.
The new RAV4 equipped with Toyota’s latest multimedia system will have a 10.5-inch or 12.9-inch centre display (depending on the grade) with enhanced graphics and a customisable home screen with widgets for quick access to key functions. A new voice agent will be able to answer questions such as “Hey Toyota, what’s my travel time” or “Hey Toyota, lower the temperature”. Cloud-based navigation will provide more accurate maps and traffic information.1
“Our customers always come first and our Connected technology exists to enhance the customer experience. Customers who may be concerned about the privacy of their data can be rest assured that we take this seriously.” Albertus says.
The Toyota Connected system does not access the owner’s mobile data plan, it will use the inbuilt DCM’s (Data Communication Module) data plan, however, when using the myToyota Connect app on a mobile device, an owner’s mobile data may be used.
Automatic collision notification alerts Toyota’s emergency call centre if the vehicle detects a serious collision, even if the driver is unable to place the call. The vehicle’s built-in sensors are designed to trigger this notification. The call centre can also direct emergency services to the vehicle's location if required. Assistance can also be manually requested by a vehicle occupant via the SOS button. 1,3,4
If the vehicle is reported stolen, stolen vehicle tracking may assist in locating the vehicle. Upon receipt of a police report, the emergency call centre can be requested by the vehicle owner to pass details of the vehicle's location to the police to assist with efforts to recover the vehicle. 5
Toyota Connected Services gives enhanced navigation and trip management services such as access to cloud-based maps, and weather information. Drivers will also be able to use their phone to select a destination and send their journey to their connected vehicle. 1
Individual connected features will be grouped into product bundles and offered to customers with complimentary trial periods before transitioning to a paid subscription model. Customers can opt out of selected connected services if they desire. 1,2
The core safety features such as SOS emergency call and automatic collision notification are expected to remain complimentary services. 2,3,4
Disclaimers:
1. Combined App & Features Reference:
Functionality and features depend on an active 4G/5G-enabled DCM (available until the 4G/5G network sunset, depending on the DCM fitted to the vehicle), compatible device and app installation/connection, mobile data (at user’s cost), GPS signal strength, New Zealand mobile network coverage, enabled push notifications, third-party information, and other factors outside Toyota’s control, which can limit system functionality. Mobile data usage is at the user’s cost. Features vary by vehicle model and subscription choice and may be subject to change.
2. Reference to Complimentary Periods
Different complimentary periods apply depending on the package and enabled DCM. Fees apply thereafter. Features depend on 4G/5G enabled DCM (available until 4G/5G sunset, depending on the applicable DCM fitted to the vehicle), third party information, GPS signal strength, New Zealand mobile network coverage, compatible device, mobile data (at user’s cost), enabled push notifications and other factors outside Toyota’s control which can limit functionality of system and may be subject to change.
3. SOS Safety Feature
Driver assist feature only. Not a substitute for safe driving practices. Not available outside New Zealand, if service disabled or terminated, or after 4G/5G sunset. Only operates if vehicle’s SOS button is pressed and vehicle ignition is on. Dependent on 4G/5G enabled DCM, GPS signal strength, mobile network coverage, emergency response centre capabilities and other factors outside Toyota’s control which can limit the ability or functionality of system.
4. Automatic Collision Notification
Driver assist feature only. Ignition must be on. Not a substitute for safe driving practices. Not available outside New Zealand, if service disabled or terminated, or after 4G/5G sunset. Only activates if vehicle’s DCM detects airbag deployment or impact sensor notification. Dependent on 4G/5G enabled DCM, GPS signal strength, mobile network coverage, operational related components and other factors outside Toyota’s control which can limit the ability or functionality of system.
5. Stolen Vehicle Tracking
Not available outside New Zealand, if service disabled or terminated, or after 4G/5G sunset (depending on the applicable DCM fitted to the vehicle). Dependent on sufficient battery power, 4G/5G enabled DCM, GPS signal strength, mobile