Nope, it’s not a new niche started by Toyota to rival BMW’s Sport Activity Coupes. Toyota’s first-ever Sports Utility Cruiser is actually what it says on the tin, a cruiser. It’s a boat! For some reason the Japanese car maker is giving the marine business another try with the new Ponam-31.
According to Toyota, they figured they have all the facilities to make a small boat, so they say what the hell, let’s do it. As with their cars, Toyota Ponam-31 is an affordable one, costing just ¥29,700,000 (around £170,000).
Suitable for fishing expeditions and cruising, Toyota Ponam-31 features a 31-foot high-strength aluminium hull and is powered by two, 3.0-litre direct-injection diesel engines derived from the Land Cruiser Prado. Also inspired by cars is the rear deck rail which evokes the look of a car spoiler.
Offering comfortable accommodation for up to 12 people, Toyota boat can be specified with technology features such as Toyota Drive Assist (a pilot support system) and Toyota Virtual Anchor System, which is an automatic piloting control system that holds the boat in position or maintains the heading of the bow.
