Throwback Thursday is here! Check out this 1970's Corolla commercial.

Click here for a sneak peek at the Toyota Furia Concept!

Merry Christmas from all of us at Toyota.

It’s Christmas! And in the spirit of the occasion, we’d just like to say thank you for your support this year, from all of us here at Toyota.

So to all of you who have left comments, read and shared our stories and joined us on Facebook and Twitter, Merry Christmas. We hope the year has been as much fun for you as it has for us.

 

With 2013 fast approaching, we’ve got even more to look forward to, with a new look blog that will make it even easier for you to stay up to date with all the latest news and new developments.

We’ll also be launching a brand new community section that will allow you to get even closer to all that we do. It’ll be packed full of advice, behind the scenes interviews, details of our local activities and most importantly of all, your stories too.

As always, we love to hear your thoughts on our cars, so don’t stop sending us your thoughts. Here’s to 2013, let’s hope it’s the best yet.

 

Thanks to our great customers for the amazing reviews.

"I know I went to the best place. My rep morris rhodes was extremely professional, knowledgeble, and helpful. I would highly recommend him to others."-Teach1

Click here to read what they have to say.

What's your favorite thing about the Toyota Entune system?

Toyota Won't Build Sub-Compact Crossover.

Toyota might be nixing the Matrix next year after two generations of building the Corolla-based hatchback.

Toyota is thinking about discontinuing the car for the U.S. market, although it will remain in Canada.

It isn’t clear when Toyota will stop selling the Matrix, but the Corolla, along with several other vehicles, is due for a redesign next year.

More details should be available soon so stay tuned as we will keep you posted.

Courtesy of House of Japan

Car maintenance tips!

• Use the grade of motor oil recommended by your car's manufacturer. Using a different motor oil can lower your gasoline mileage by 1% to 2%.

• Keep tires properly inflated and aligned to improve your gasoline mileage by around 3.3%.

• Get regular engine tune-ups and car maintenance checks to avoid fuel economy problems due to worn spark plugs, dragging brakes, low transmission fluid, or transmission problems.

• Replace clogged air filters to improve gas mileage by as much as 10% and protect your engine.

• Combine errands into one trip. Several short trips, each one taken from a cold start, can use twice as much fuel as one trip covering the same distance when the engine is warm.

Courtesy of the US Department of Energy

It's throwback Thursday friends! Click here to watch this great Toyota Commercial from the 1980's.

There's nothing better than getting or giving a new car for Christmas! With these specials you'll be able to make it happen.

Click here for our specials.

Toyota Leadership In Vehicle Quality And Reliability Confirmed By Germany TUV For Third Consecutive Year.

Toyota is the most successful brand in the 2013 TÜV Report. In the latest edition of the report released today by Germany's leading technical inspection agency - TÜV, no less than 29 Toyota models were placed in the Top 50 most reliable cars across the various age categories, 20 Toyota models taking Top 10 positions and the Prius the number one spot in the category for vehicles aged four to five years.

Brussels, Belgium - Among the two to three years old vehicles category, Toyota vehicles dominated the field with 4 models among the top 10, the Avensis, the Prius, the Yaris and iQ.

The Toyota Prius showed the lowest defect rate of the category of four-to five-year old vehicles, closely followed by the Auris and Corolla in positions three and four.
Across older age categories, the Verso, and the RAV4 models also feature strongly in this year report.

Toyota has already been leading previous year’s reports from TÜV. This renewed excellent performance provides further evidence of the high reliability and long-term durability of Toyota vehicles.

First published four decades ago, the annual report by the TÜV has become a helpful guide to customers by showing long-term reliability and overall quality of vehicles available on the market today.

The majority of all mandatory technical inspections in Germany are carried out through the various bodies of the TÜV organisation. The 2013 TÜV Report is based on some 8.1 million vehicles inspected by the TÜV between July 2011 and June 2012.

Courtesy of House of Japan

Don't Drive Drowsy!

A study conducted by researchers at Virginia Tech reported that 20 percent of all accidents have sleepiness as a contributing factor. If a driver is tired enough to actually fall asleep while driving, the results are predictable. Even on a relatively straight highway, a sleeping driver will eventually drift off the road. Trees, utility poles, ravines and bridge abutments turn this into a deadly scenario -- and that doesn't even take other cars into account.

You might think a few yawns are nothing to worry about, but just being a little drowsy is enough to increase your risk of getting in an accident. Responses can range from dozing off for a few seconds at a time to simply "zoning out" and losing all focus on the road. At highway speeds, one or two seconds of inattention can lead to disaster.

The solution is simple: Get a better night's sleep! Make sure you get a solid eight hours of sleep, not just on the night before a long drive, but on a regular basis. Failure to get enough sleep every night builds a sleep deficit that can leave you drowsy and unable to focus. If you're driving and feel the least bit groggy, take action immediately. Don't think you'll get any kind of warning before you fall asleep, or that you can fight it off. People can move from drowsy to sound asleep without warning. If this happens to you, have a friend take over behind the wheel, find a rest area where you can catch a few hours of sleep or take a break until you're feeling more alert.

Courtesy of How Stuff Works

Toyotathon has been saving people money for 34 years! Come by today and be one of those people we've helped save.

Hi friends! We have a great special going on right now you don't want to miss.

Click here to redeem.

Toyota Donates $300,000 to the Michigan Science Center

Toyota Technical Center (TTC), a division of Toyota Motor Engineering and Manufacturing North America, Inc., announced a $300,000 donation to the Michigan Science Center.

 “The Michigan Science Center offers the perfect vehicle for exposing and engaging children in the areas of science, technology, engineering and math at an early age,” said Jeff Makarewicz, TTC executive and Michigan Science Center board member. “Toyota is proud to be able to support the reopening of the center and play a part in creating and inspiring the next generation of engineers and scientists.”

 The donation is intended to provide support for the reopening of various attractions and the Michigan Science Center’s five theaters including the Toyota Engineering Theater. The Toyota Engineering Theater presents multi-dimensional video profiles of engineers and their education, lifestyle, work day, services and products. It will help visitors make the connection between everyday life and groundbreaking research, new inventions and scientific discoveries. 

Courtesy of Toyota Newsroom.

Check out The Tundra Endeavour Tweet Drive and help raise money for the Endeavour’s new home with a goal of $500,000!

We are almost there with $403,850 already raised!  Toyota will donate $50 to the California Science Center for every tweet sent using the “Share with Twitter” button! To find out further information, please click here.

Toyotathon is so awesome even just saying it is fun!

A round of applause goes out to Toyota for winning Kelley Blue Book's Best Resale Value Brand Award for a second time in a row!

Toyota has earned Kelley Blue Book’s KBB.com Best Resale Value Brand Award for the 2013 model year.  This is the second year in a row that Toyota has received the Best Resale Value Brand Award from KBB.com, and it has received this top honor in three of the last four years.

In achieving the award for the top brand, Toyota earned six Best Resale Value Awards for specific 2013 model year vehicle categories   In addition, four Toyota models (FJ Cruiser, Land Cruiser, Tacoma and 4Runner) earned spots on KBB.com’s 2013 Best Resale Value: Top 10 Cars list.

 “We are thrilled that KBB.com has selected Toyota for its Best Resale Value Brand award, and we appreciate Kelley Blue Book’s efforts to help increase consumer awareness as to the importance of resale value when purchasing a car“, said Bill Fay, Group Vice President and General Manager of Toyota division.

2013 KELLY BLUE BOOK BEST RESALE VALUE BY VEHICLE CATEGORY:

FULL-SIZE CAR:	Toyota Avalon
MID-SIZE SUV/CROSSOVER:  FULL-SIZE SUV/CROSSOVER:	Toyota FJ Cruiser Toyota Sequoia
MID-SIZE PICKUP TRUCK: FULL-SIZE PICKUP TRUCK:	Toyota Tacoma Toyota Tundra
MINIVAN/VAN:	Toyota Sienna

 
Since vehicle depreciation (or loss of value) is typically a car buyer’s primary expense during ownership, these awards, like all of KBB.com’s new and used vehicle information, are designed to help consumers make more informed car-buying decisions.
 
Kelley Blue Book’s Best Resale Value Awards are based on projections from the Kelley Blue Book^® Official Residual Value Guide, determined by a skilled staff of automotive analysts.  These prestigious awards honor vehicles expected to maintain the greatest proportion of their original Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) after five years of ownership.  Low-volume vehicles and vehicles with a MSRP of more than $60,000 are excluded from award consideration, except in the luxury and high-performance categories.

Courtesy of Toyota Newsroom

There's something for everyone here!

Check out our deal of the day specials here.

The 2013 Toyota Avalon is so fabulous that it is guaranteed to make your neighbors very jealous.

We have a brand new offer exclusive to our followers!

Click here to print out.

Click here to read the latest on Toyota's development of a Collision Avoidance Assist System.

Toyota Motor Corporation (TMC) announces that it has developed a Pre-collision System (PCS) with collision avoidance assist that is effective in helping mitigate even high-speed collisions.

The newly developed PCS uses millimeter-wave radar to detect the risk of a rear-end collision with a preceding vehicle, with the system warning the driver via sound and display alerts to prompt braking when such a risk is detected. When the driver applies the brakes, PCS enables deceleration of up to 60 km/h by greatly increasing the braking force up to twice that of the average force applied by drivers. If the brakes are not applied, automatic deceleration of 15 km/h to approximately 30 km/h is possible.

More than 90 percent of rear-end collisions occur when the difference in speed between the preceding and following vehicle is within 60 km/h.TMC aimed to develop a system based on real-world collision data, and has, with its newly developed system, achieved rear-end-collision reducing-effects at the highest level in the industry. The new PCS was developed to be used in a wide variety of models, and is to be rolled out starting with soon-to-be-launched models.

To contribute to the elimination of traffic accident fatalities and injuries—the ultimate goal of a society that values mobility—TMC is conducting research and development on individual onboard safety devices and systems based on its Integrated Safety Management Concept, an approach that gives direction to safety technology and vehicle development. TMC is pressing forward with the development of safer vehicles and technologies and is intensifying its wide-ranging traffic-safety initiatives by participating in the development of traffic environments and conducting educational traffic-safety activities.

Courtesy of Toyota Newsroom

"Like" this if you or someone in your family has served or is currently serving in our armed forces. We cannot thank them enough!

We know you've been eyeing our Prius! Now's the time to get yours.

Click here for more details.

"Like" if your Toyota gives you swagger!

Happy November Friends! The start of a new month means new savings!

Click here to print out your coupons.

Congratulations to Chris Basselgia for winning the Scion FR-S Tuner Challenge!

With a unique color and a supercharger under the hood, custom-car builder Chris Basselgia of Lebanon, Pa., won Scion’s FR-S Tuner Challenge, announced yesterday at the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) show in Las Vegas.

In its eighth year, the Scion Tuner Challenge is a custom car competition in which three builders received a stock 2013 FR-S, a $15,000 budget and three months to build and accessorize. Independent car show judging company Global Judging evaluated the three entries, and the winner earned a $10,000 grand prize.

On Wednesday, the FR-S was named Hottest Sport Compact at the 2012 SEMA Show, granted to the year’s best vehicle for specialty equipment add-ons and industry inspiration.

Basselgia’s entry was named “Minty FReSh” for its green hue and effort to enhance the clean lines of the FR-S with luxury and supercharged driving functionality. Enhancements included a lip kit, spoiler, custom leather interior and audio system.

“The Minty FReSh entry builds fantastically on the core appeal and sports car intention of the FR-S with each impressive custom piece,” said Steve Hatanaka, Scion auto shows and events manager. “All three Scion Tuner Challenge participants added an extra level of originality and class to the first-time SEMA appearance for the FR-S. Every Scion owner imagining the possibilities should look to these entries for inspiration.”

Second place went to the entry “Carbon Stealth FR-S” by John Toca of Chicago, and third place went to the entry “FR-S GT” by Daniel Song of Orange County, Calif.

After long hours in the garage, the first place finish was welcome news to Basselgia.

“I approached this challenge with the goal to build something unique, functional and what I would want to drive,” Basselgia said. “The FR-S was an excellent canvas to showcase quality and workmanship, and I’m thrilled to have won the competition.”

For detailed specifications on each of the FR-S Tuner Challenge cars including the winner, please visit

Courtesy of http://bit.ly/VQYUBT

Toyota Racing Dream Build: Vehicles Revealed for Charity!

Stop by tomorrow Nov. 1st for our FREE credit seminar! Details below.

Let us help you celebrate the beggining of a new month by helping you better understand your credit. TOO and CPM will be uniting forces to answer all of your credit needs. All you have to do is come by tomorrow at 6:30pm! Click here for more details and to RSVP.

So much is happening tomorrow at Toyota of Orangburg you're not going to want to miss this!

Don't forget to stop by on October 31st for our Halloween Family Fun Day! Click here to learn more!

Stop by this Wednesday from 6-9 pm! There will be a live auction with many great items donated by our community. The best part is all the proceeds go to the Breast Health Center at the Regional Medical Center in Orangeburg!

We will also be having a trunk or treat, where all kids in costume will receive candy. Make sure to have the best costume though because there's going to be a contest with prizes to the winners. And if that's not enough : Red Hour will be providing live music for the event.

 

Click here to RSVP.

If you are debating on whether you should buy or lease watch this video!

This 2012 Tundra is Priced to Drive.

Don't let this chance slip you by. Click here for more details!

Click here to check out Bowyer's final product: The "Tekked-Out Prius".

Fresh from his third NASCAR Sprint Cup victory of the season on Saturday in Charlotte, Clint Bowyer finds himself neck-deep in another chase – to win the Toyota Racing Dream Build Challenge. Bowyer, currently fourth in the Sprint Cup Chase, is vying for victory in the vehicle-modification build competition and pinning his hopes on his “Tekked-Out Prius.” He and his team have turned the world’s most popular hybrid into a model of ultra-high-tech interactivity.

Bowyer, whose Prius was modified under his direction by RKM Performance Center in Mooresville, N.C., believes that taking the high technology for which the Prius is already famous to extremes will pave the way to victory.

“When you think of a hot rod, you don’t think of a Prius,” Bowyer said. “A young, sophisticated global thinker meets a connected, socially conscious traveler – that’s the theme of the Tekked-Out Prius.”

The RKM Performance crew performed major electronic modifications on the Prius, starting with a 17-inch custom touch screen with built-in Windows 7 computer, two ASUS 12-inch tablets, and a side-view camera system that replaces the factory mirrors. A staggering 45 feet of fiber optic lighting and a thumping 16-speaker JBL audio system with two amplifiers and six crossovers brighten the mood inside of the sinister-looking black-on-black Prius.

The interior also received major luxury touches with custom leather and suede upholstery, imported German carpet and electric blue stitching accents.

As a racer, Bowyer wanted the Prius to have some attitude, so a set of Megan Racing springs and shocks bring the hi-tech hybrid down "lower than a Sprint Cup car," according to Bowyer, while it rolls on a set of custom EVOD wheels.

The competition will be intense. Bowyer and his Prius are facing big efforts from fellow NASCAR driver Kyle Busch, who is creating a “Rowdy” edition Camry; NHRA Funny Car driver Alexis DeJoria and her modified Tundra Prerunner; and NHRA Top Fuel points leader Antron Brown, who is modifying a Sequoia for maximum speed.

Each is competing for the Toyota Racing Dream Build Challenge title and a $50,000 check from Toyota to the driver’s chosen charity. A win by Bowyer will benefit the Emporia Community Foundation, which provides services and support to improve the quality of life in Bowyer’s home town, Emporia, Kan., and its surrounding counties.

Voting will open on Oct. 20 and will continue through Oct. 29. Fans will be able to vote once per day on the Toyota Racing Facebook page, where they can also enter to win prizes, including a Toyota Racing “Dream Trip,” which will be given away to one lucky fan.

The final vehicle builds will be unveiled during a press conference at the Toyota display at the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) show in Las Vegas on Oct. 30 at 11 a.m. local time. Fans will be able to tune in live to watch the entire press conference on the Toyota Racing Facebook page or LiveStream.com/Toyota and see the winner announced in real time.

Courtesy of http://bit.ly/QTrIY5

Don't neglect your anti-lock brakes! Click here for what to do.

Care for anti-lock brakes
An anti-lock brake system is sensitive to moisture, which can ruin the expensive ABS pump and rot the brake lines from the inside. Since brake fluid attracts moisture, it should be “bled” or purged at least every three years, or as specified in your owner’s manual.

Courtesy of http://bit.ly/SyEdYP.

Watch the Toyota Tundra accomplishing it's mission here!

This just in: We're having a tire sale!

Click here for all the details.

The Toyota Racing Dream Build Challenge is now offering a chance for fans to win too!

The Toyota Racing Dream Build Challenge, which will be making charitable donations totaling $100,000, is giving fans a chance to win too. For 10 days, fans not only get to help their favorite drivers, builds and charities win, they also have opportunities to win prizes themselves.

From Oct. 20 - 29, fans can log in to www.toyotaracingdreambuild.com to vote for their favorite Dream Build Challenge team and register to win the Toyota Racing Dream Trip Grand Prize. Fans can feel good casting their votes to help the winning charity take home $50,000, with second place receiving $25,000, third place $15,000 and fourth $10,000, and they can register for their own opportunity to win daily prizes in the sweepstakes.

The Grand Prize will feature an exclusive race experience, and the winner can select from either a NASCAR or NHRA race event.

The NASCAR edition of the Dream Race Trip will include two grandstand tickets, two NASCAR Hot Passes and a $1,500 American Express gift card. NASCAR's Hot Passes give fans up-close exposure to the team garages and pre-race activity during "hot" times at the track.

If an NHRA race is preferred, the Grand Prize will feature two general event tickets for select NHRA races with driver pit hospitality access, event parking and a $1,500 American Express gift card. The winner will also have an opportunity for a meet and greet with one or more Toyota racing driver(s).

Additionally, once per day during the voting period, a fortunate fan will take home a $100 American Express gift card. Daily winners can also be featured on the Toyota Racing Dream Build Challenge home page at their discretion.

Courtesy of http://bit.ly/R2ZNbS

Click here for some tips on keeping your Toyota looking as good as new.

EXTERIOR CLEANING TIPS

• Routinely wash and polish the exterior with a high-quality car wash soap. (Never use dish detergent to wash your car; it can strip off wax and damage the finish.)
• Wash your car in the shade. This keeps your car cool while you work, reducing water spots.
• Rinse first and wash from the top down.
• Use a clean terry cloth towel for washing and drying.
• Washing your car is not the same as cleaning the paint. Cleaning and polishing the paint removes oxidation, smoothes the surface, and restores shine.

Courtesy of http://bit.ly/OCo6NS.

Watch this inspiring video on the Toyota Tundra: Born in America.

Specials coming your way!

Don't forget to take advantage of our amazing Facebook Specials before the end of the month! Click here to check them out.

Were you able to tune in to HSN on Sunday? If not read this!

Toyota introduced its all-new Avalon Hybrid and its hybrid vehicle lineup into millions of living rooms across America on Sunday, Oct. 7, with a “Discover Toyota” showcase that aired on multichannel retailer HSN at 12 noon, 4 p.m. and 9 p.m. EDT.

Toyota is the first auto manufacturer to appear on HSN in the more than 30 years since it was founded.

Auto experts Micah Muzio of KBB.com and Tara Weingarten of Vroomgirls.com, joined HSN's well-known hosts Marlo Smith and Brett Chuckerman to give HSN viewers an inside look at Toyota’s hybrid vehicles, including the Prius Family, Camry Hybrid, Highlander Hybrid and the all-new Toyota Avalon Hybrid.
Both the all-new Avalon and Avalon Hybrid were designed, engineered and manufactured in America.

Toyota extended an exclusive offer to HSN’s audience to register, either by calling HSN or visiting a Toyota/HSN custom site to receive a $1,000 gas card or HSN Kash upon purchasing a Toyota hybrid in the next 90 days. The site will remain live through Nov. 5.

To enhance viewers’ experience, the corresponding Toyota/HSN site featured a variety of Toyota activities, including videos, a quiz and a Toyota-themed game. Fans earned points for playing to win prizes and enter a sweepstakes for a chance to win the all-new Avalon Hybrid.

“HSN has a really loyal and engaged base of viewers, so it was a natural partner to help us expose our growing lineup of hybrids to people across the country,” said Ed Laukes, vice president of marketing communications and motorsports at Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc. “We got such an enthusiastic response from HSN’s viewers and fans, so we’ll continue to push the envelope on how we help people discover Toyota.”

After introducing the Prius in 2000, Toyota expanded its hybrid lineup to incorporate hybrid versions of popular Toyota models. Toyota has now sold nearly 75 percent of all hybrids in America.

Courtesy of http://bit.ly/VLPlbK

Here's a tip on an easy way to improve fuel economy

Lose the Junk
Every 100 pounds you remove improves economy by 1 to 2 percent, so clear our your trunk and your backseat before you leave home. Both of them are preferable to a loaded-down roof rack, however, which can fuel economy by as much as 5 percent.

Courtesy of http://bit.ly/QNuY9t

We would like to thank Victoria for her great review!

To read it and more click here.

"He made me feel comfortable throughout the whole visit and I ended up buying a 2012 Corolla."

Who do you think has the better chance of winning the Toyota Hall of Fame: Bill Bellamy or JB Smoove?

Check out what October just brought in!

A new month comes along with new specials! Click here to find the car that's right for you.

Find out what the Toyota USA Foundation is doing for our communities

The Toyota USA Foundation today announced more than $1.3 million in new grants to support innovative K-12 math, science, engineering and environmental science education programs, with a focus on programs that serve diverse and underserved communities. These new grants, combined with the more than $3.8 million in multi-year commitments, total to more than $5 million that the Toyota Foundation has disbursed to nonprofit organizations this year.

Toyota USA Foundation grant decisions place a high priority on programs that value diversity, incorporate inter-disciplinary learning and are built around “real-world” classroom applications. In addition, the Foundation focuses on innovative and cost-effective programs that help students and educators develop their abilities.

The new 2012 grant recipients are:  

• American Indian Science and Engineering Society, Food for Thought- Feeding Young Minds with STEM Enrichment offers fun, interactive workshops to motivate and excite young students about science.

• American University, Lab2Class offers an accelerated training process for midcareer scientists who want to shift into the teaching profession.

• California State University Bakersfield Foundation, Families for STEM aims to increase the number of students from diverse backgrounds who are entering and successfully graduating from STEM fields.

• Colorado Seminary, University of Denver, Kids Play Math will expand the development, implementation, and teacher training for Kids Play Math, a bilingual, research-based computer game system designed to teach mathematics skills to children.

• Fremont Education Foundation, Education, Challenge, Inspire will build on the Foundation’s efforts to provide math and algebra teaching kits for California teachers, as well as calculators and science lab equipment for fourth- through eighth-grade students.

• Mills College, Lesson Study will train elementary school teachers through an innovative Japanese teaching strategy to improve mathematics instruction.

• Mobile Area Education Foundation, Engaging Youth through Engineering will train STEM educators in southwest Alabama to expand and reform STEM curricula to additional schools.

• O’Neill Sea Odyssey, Community Oceanography Program will provide 750 youth and 25 teachers with an ocean field trip, hands-on restoration projects and in-class curriculum to improve student understanding of ocean science and environmental conservation.

For additional information about these and other grants from the Toyota USA Foundation, please visit: http://bit.ly/O3etoy

“We are proud to support these organizations and educational institutions, and to help further the important work they are doing to help our country’s young people excel in mathematics, science, engineering and environmental science,” said Patricia Salas Pineda, group vice president of national Philanthropy and the Toyota USA Foundation at Toyota Motor North America. “Toyota is deeply committed to supporting the next generation of America’s leaders in these critical fields, and we look forward to seeing each of these programs – and the students and teachers they serve – make an even bigger impact in the years ahead.”

“This grant from the Toyota USA Foundation provides the opportunity to advance our mission and dedication to high quality STEM education for students in Washington, DC” says Sarah Irvine Belson, Dean of American University’s School of Education, Teaching & Health. “Toyota’s support will help us increase the number of middle school and high school science teachers in diverse communities and encourage more students to pursue science-based careers.”

Over the past 20 years, Toyota and the Toyota USA Foundation have contributed nearly $600 million to nonprofits across the United States.
 

Courtesy of http://bit.ly/SBrVPV

We have an announcement!

Happy Monday Friends! Our Facebook Contest for the "Free Oil Changes for a Year" has ended. A winner has been chosen so stay tuned for the announcement!

Does JB Smoove have your vote for the Toyota Hall of Fame or can you do better?

Surprise Savings!

Now that we have matched you up with a great car, take a look at the great service specials we are offering! Click here for further details.

2013 Toyota FJ Cruiser Adds New Cement Grey Trail Teams Special Edition Model

The Toyota FJ Cruiser, which uniquely melds the brand’s off-road performance legacy with distinct heritage design in a modern SUV, rolls into 2013 with a new color scheme choice for the high-capability Trail Teams Special Edition. Even with its considerable off-road capability, the FJ Cruiser offers comfortable everyday usability and Toyota reliability.

The Trail Teams Special Edition Package incorporates a standard Off-Road Package and features a new color, Cement Grey, which replaces Radiant Red. With the optional Class Four receiver hitch, the FJ Cruiser can pull a trailer up to 4,700 pounds (per SAE, J2807 regulations), enough to take the fun with it, such as a pair of watercraft, a powerboat, dirt bikes or even a racecar.

On pavement or off, the 2013 FJ Cruiser offers convenient audio and connectivity features. New for 2013, the FJ Cruiser gains standard power outside mirrors with illuminated markers, and a new Magma Red exterior color.

Trail Teams Special Edition
The 2013 FJ Cruiser Trail Teams Special Edition sports a monotone Cement Grey exterior and projects a tough, slightly menacing look, accentuated by black bumpers, front grille and door handles. Matching Cement Grey accents on the door trim, steering wheel and fabric seat inserts complement the exterior styling.

The Trail Teams’ styling compliments its off-road capability. Under the hood, a cyclone pre-air cleaner (standard on all models) is effective at trapping sand and dirt, while being easy to clean. The Trail Teams package beefs up chassis performance with trail-tuned Bilstein® shock absorbers; rear differential lock and the Active Traction Control (A-TRAC) system; engine, fuel tank and transfer cases; skid plates; rock rails; plus Toyota Racing Development (TRD) alloy wheels and BF Goodrich 265/75R16 All-Terrain tires with wheel locks.

The Trail Teams Edition also preps the FJ Cruiser’s body and interior for serious off-road driving. The power-side mirrors feature Illumination markers, and the auto-dimming rear-view mirror integrates a backup-camera monitor. The water-resistant seats, rubber-type floor and rear deck make it easy to clean the “trail” out of the Trail Teams Edition, while 12V,DC/120W and 120V,AC/400W outlets enable the driver to keep “plugged in” to civilization when necessary. New TRD aluminum doorsill scuff plates stand up to wear and mud; and an aluminum shift knob and transfer case knob add to the rugged interior design.

In addition, the Trail Teams Edition comes ready for road and trail with a “floating ball” type multi-information display, remote keyless entry, cruise control, rear privacy glass and rear wiper. The final touch is a Trail Teams exterior badge.

Performance and Efficiency
The FJ Cruiser is powered by DOHC, 4.0-liter V6 engine that specifies regular-grade fuel. This powerful, responsive V6 incorporates dual independent Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i = variable phasing for both the intake and exhaust cams) and produces 260 horsepower and 271 lb.-ft. of peak torque. The broad torque curve facilitates easy cruising on or off-road. The FJ Cruiser meets the stringent LEV II/Tier 2 Bin 5 emissions certification.

The 2013 FJ Cruiser is available in 4x2 or 4x4 configurations. The 4x4 offers a choice between a six-speed manual transmission and an electronically shifted five-speed automatic transmission; the 4x2 model is equipped exclusively with the five-speed automatic. The automatic transmission varies the shifting pattern based on road conditions and driver input.

A Flex Lock-Up feature allows the clutch in the torque converter to maintain a half-engaged position, enhancing fuel efficiency and increasing the lock-up clutch's operational range. The driver can manually shift the automatic transmission using a console-mounted, gate-type shift lever. The gearshift position is also displayed in the instrument panel.

Capability, Handling and Ride
The FJ Cruiser's two-speed transfer case provides a 2.566 low range. With the manual transmission, the transfer case uses a TORSEN® limited-slip center differential with a locking feature and distributes the engine's power 40:60 under most driving conditions. The TORSEN unit varies power distribution as needed, based on steering angle and wheel slippage. In the Lock position, the differential switches to a 50:50 power distribution.

The 4x4 FJ Cruiser with the automatic transmission employs a part-time four-wheel drive system with a 3.727:1 rear differential ratio and provides a 33.76:1 crawl ratio. With the manual transmission, the front and rear differential ratio is a lower 3.909:1 for a crawl ratio of 41.84:1, an attribute that helped the FJ Cruiser traverse California's famed Rubicon Trail.

An electronic-locking rear differential is standard with the manual transmission and optional with the automatic transmission. The ring gears in the 4x4 FJ Cruiser's front and rear differentials measure eight inches. The 4x2 model comes standard with a virtual automatic limited-slip differential, provided and operated by an advanced traction-control system to enhance traction of both rear wheels in slippery driving conditions.

Toyota engineered the FJ Cruiser for serious trail driving capability. Its tough, wide stance is based on a boxed steel ladder-braced frame to which the welded steel body is mounted. Skid plates for the engine, transfer case (4x4 models only) and fuel tank are standard. Double-wishbone independent front suspension offers 7.87 inches of wheel travel for outstanding suspension articulation. Its geometry is optimized for excellent road feel and ride comfort.

The solid rear axle uses a four-link coil-spring suspension system with a lateral rod, tubular shock absorbers and a stabilizer bar. This system provides 9.1 inches of wheel travel. The four-wheel disc brake system uses ventilated 12.6-inch front and 12.3-inch rear rotors. The FJ Cruiser employs a variable-ratio, hydraulically assisted rack-and-pinion steering system. Standard wheels are 17-inch steel with P265/70 R17 tires; aluminum-alloy wheels are available.

With the FJ Cruiser's standard 32-inch tires, ground clearance is 9.6 inches (8.7 inches for 4x2 models). Approach and departure angles are 34 degrees and 31 degrees, respectively, for the 4x4 model, and 32/30 for the 4x2. Maximum towing capacity with the optional Class Four receiver hitch is 4,700 pounds.

Safety
The FJ Cruiser’s comprehensive standard safety package includes front seat-mounted side airbags, and first- and second-row roll-sensing side curtain airbags. A front driver and passenger Advanced Airbag System deploys based on impact type and severity.

Additionally, the FJ Cruiser is equipped with active headrests for the front seats. In certain rear collisions, a cable-actuated mechanism in the active headrest moves the headrest upward and forward to help limit the movement of the occupant's head. The LATCH child-restraint system secures child seats.

As with all Toyota models, the FJ Cruiser is standard equipped with Toyota's STAR Safety System™ that includes Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Traction Control (TRAC), an Antilock Brake System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA) and Smart Stop Technology (SST), Toyota’s brake override system. The roll-sensing side-curtain airbags can detect a potential rollover and signal the VSC system to help reduce a lateral skid. In addition, the rollover sensor can signal the standard seat-mounted side airbags and side curtain airbags to deploy.

Exterior Design
With styling cues reminiscent of Toyota's famed FJ40 4x4 utility vehicle, sold in the U.S. from 1960 to 1983, the FJ Cruiser conveys a capable, contemporary spirit. The original FJ40, which during its production life served around the world as the safari and expedition vehicle of choice, is today a sought-after collectable.

Heritage-design features include a front grille with two round, five-inch headlights, reminiscent of the FJ40’s frontal styling; the hood and fender contours; and a rear-mounted and exposed full-size spare tire with an off-center license plate mount.

The FJ Cruiser’s side access doors open 90 degrees in clamshell fashion for easy rear-seat ingress and egress. Additionally, a swing-up glass hatch is incorporated into the side-hinged rear door. The glass hatch opens independently of the rear door and helps accommodate longer items. The angular wheel arches open to provide maximum clearance for the FJ Cruiser's large 32-inch tires at full suspension deflection. The arches are edged by flexible fender flares that resist damage during trail driving and also from opening doors of adjacent parked vehicles. Three wiper arms provide nearly complete coverage of the wide windshield.

Interior Designed for Rugged Wear and Comfort
The FJ Cruiser's interior combines a heritage-inspired design with the comfort and convenience of a modern Toyota SUV. The dash is bordered by upper and lower tubular forms, which frame rectangular-shaped flat panels. Large control knobs provide easy grip, even when wearing gloves. The standard full gauge package – including speedometer, tachometer, amp meter, temperature gauge and fuel gauge – uses round, black-white dials for enhanced visibility. Switches for major functions, including climate and audio controls, and the optional locking rear differential, are mounted in the center dash panel within easy reach for the driver.

The driver’s seat is eight-way adjustable, while the front passenger seat offers four-way adjustment. Seating materials are not only water-repellant, but also provide excellent ventilation. The seating fabric is backed by a special breathable resin coating, which helps it to shed liquids and make cleanup easier. Even the stitched seams of the seat covers are treated with sealant to prevent liquids from penetrating. The FJ Cruiser's floor surfaces are covered with an easy-to-clean rubber-like material.

The rear seatback is split 60/40, with folding (removable) bottom and back cushions that convert to a nearly flat cargo floor. The rear cargo area is equipped with cargo-net hooks, multipurpose grocery-bag hooks and sturdy, floor-mounted cargo tie-down anchor points. A 120-volt accessory power outlet is available.

Comfort and Convenience
The FJ Cruiser’s long list of standard features includes air conditioning, power windows and door locks, water-resistant seats, tilt steering wheel, four cup holders and two bottle holders, rear-window defogger, rear-door-mounted full-size spare tire, front- and rear-tow hooks, and mudguards.

An available Convenience Package includes keyless entry, cruise control, power side-view mirrors with illumination markers, daytime running lights, rear privacy glass, rear window wiper and a spare tire cover. This package also includes a rear backup camera integrated with an auto-dimming rear-view mirror.

The FJ Cruiser can be upgraded further with comfort amenities without compromising its rugged capability. Available features include a floating ball type multi-information display (compass, inclinometer and temperature gauge); JBL Premium Audio system; a 120V AC power outlet; 17-inch alloy wheels; leather-wrapped steering wheel with integral audio controls and cruise-control function; metal-colored shift lever; and interior door-trim inserts keyed to the vehicle's exterior color.

Toyota dealers offer a catalog of available accessories, including auxiliary driving lights, rock rails, roof rack, brush guard, taillight guards, sport exhaust system, receiver hitch and harness, wind deflector with off-road lights, a cargo mat and all-weather or carpeted floor mats.

High-Capability Audio and Connectivity
The standard audio system in the 2013 FJ Cruiser includes an AM/FM CD player with MP3/WMA playback capability, six speakers, XM Radio (includes 90-day trial subscription), auxiliary audio jack, USB port with iPod® connectivity, plus hands-free phone capability and music streaming via Bluetooth® wireless technology. The steering wheel integrates audio system and Bluetooth controls for added ease of use. A 10-speaker JBL® premium audio system, including sub woofer, is optional (standard on Trail Teams Special Edition).

Limited Warranty
Toyota’s 36-month/36,000 mile basic new-vehicle warranty applies to all components other than normal wear and maintenance items. Additional 60-month warranties cover the powertrain for 60,000 miles and corrosion with no mileage limitation. Toyota dealers have complete details on the limited warranty.

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2013 Toyota Sienna Adds New Standard Amenities

The Toyota Sienna family van offers enhanced value for 2013 with new additions in most model grades. The four-cylinder engine has been discontinued, leaving the popular 266-horsepower, 3.5-liter V6 as the sole powertrain. The roomy and versatile Sienna is the first vehicle in its class to offer an all-wheel drive option.
 

Designed specifically with North American customers in mind, the current-generation Sienna, introduced for the 2011 model year, was primarily designed by Toyota’s Calty Design Research, developed at Toyota Technical Center in Ann Arbor, Mich., and is assembled at Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Indiana.

For the 2013 model year, most grades of the Sienna gain new amenities and refinements. The popular LE grade adds a standard three-zone automatic climate control system. The system features a cabin air filter, along with individual temperature settings for the driver, front passenger and rear-seat passengers. The rear passengers have a separate digital control panel.

The 2013 Sienna Limited and XLE gains a standard Blind Spot Monitor, and this feature is now also available as a stand-alone option on the SE grade. A standard acoustic windshield is also new on Limited and XLE models.

Design

The Toyota Sienna conveys a distinctive presence in the family van segment. Its sculpted shape yields a coefficient of drag (Cd) of .306, which is low for the class and a major factor in providing a quiet interior and admirable fuel economy. Distinctive window shapes and sliding door tracks hidden within the side window frames complement the sleek profile.

The Sienna interior features upscale quality and elegance, yet every element is logical and functional. The distinctive swept shape of the dashboard makes the spacious cabin feel even roomier. The seat designs add flexibility and roominess, while central climate and audio controls are integrated into a single graphic element.

Power and Efficiency

The Sienna’s standard 3.5-liter V6 generates 266 horsepower at 6,200 rpm, with EPA-estimated mileage ratings of 18 mpg city/25 mpg highway (16 mpg city/23 mpg highway on AWD models). Dual Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i), roller rocker arms and an Acoustically Controlled Induction System (ACIS) optimize torque across the engine speed range. The powerful engine is matched with an electronically controlled six-speed automatic transmission with sequential shift that provides a smooth gearshift feeling and quiet performance. The Sienna can tow a trailer up to 3,500 pounds.

Electronic Power Steering (EPS) and a wide stance help deliver a solid, direct on-road feel. Aerodynamic under-body elements also contribute to Sienna’s dynamic performance.

Entune™ Multimedia System

Sienna will offer the Toyota Entune™ multimedia system with Navigation on LE, SE, and XLE grades. Entune is a collection of popular mobile applications and data services, with three years of complimentary access. Once a smart phone is connected to the vehicle using Bluetooth wireless technology or a USB cable, Entune’s features are operated using the vehicle’s controls, or for some services by voice recognition. Entune offers mobile apps for Bing™, iHeartRadio, MovieTickets.com, OpenTable^®, and Pandora^®. Entune data services include a fuel price guide, sports scores, stocks, traffic and weather.

Models and Features

The 2013 Sienna is available in five grades: Sienna grade, LE, SE, XLE and Limited.  All-wheel-drive is available on LE, XLE and Limited models. The value-driven Sienna grade and popular LE are equipped with a wide array of standard features that include cruise control, Daytime Running Lights with manual on/off feature, tri-zone air conditioning, six- or eight-way-adjustable driver’s captain’s chair, power windows with auto up/down and jam protection, AM/FM CD player with four speakers, XM compatibility, auxiliary input jack, power door locks, remote keyless entry, and three 12V outlets, among other amenities.

The Sienna LE model is upgraded with even more standard features including three-zone automatic climate control (new for 2013), eight-way power driver’s seat, four-way power front passenger seat, dual power-sliding doors and power rear liftgate, an eight-way power driver seat with power lumbar support, electrochromatic rearview mirror with integrated Homelink™, multi-information display with backup camera, rear window sunshades, AM/FM/MP3 CD player, integrated SiriusXM^® satellite radio capability with 90 day trial subscription, auxiliary audio jack, USB port with iPod^® connectivity, hands-free phone capability and music streaming via Bluetooth^®, and steering wheel audio controls. 
 

The XLE builds on the LE, adding features such as leather-trimmed seats, tilt/slide moonroof, anti-theft system with engine immobilizer, and heated front seats.  Select optional XLE equipment includes a 10-speaker JBL^® premium sound system with voice-activated DVD Navigation and Panorama rear camera with integrated back-up guides, XM^® NavTraffic capability with 90 day trial subscription, rear-seat Dual View Entertainment system, rear sonar, Smart Key, and an auxiliary audio jack and USB port with iPod connectivity.
 

The Sienna Limited offers top-of-line luxury in a family van. The standard equipment list is extensive, including a second-row Lounge Seating and a power 60/40 Split & Stow third-row seat, front and rear parking sonar, Smart Key that also operates on both sliding doors, Safety Connect™, and independently powered, slide opening dual moonroofs.  Select options include those available on the XLE, plus HID auto high-beam auto-high beam headlamps, rain-sensing wipers, and Pre-Collision System (PCS) with Dynamic Radar Cruise Control.

Sporty SE

The Sienna SE is designed for those who appreciate an even sportier design with responsive performance. The front shows a bolder appearance, while the side skirting visually lowers the vehicle and hugs the standard 19-inch alloy wheels. Smoked taillights make a distinctive statement. The Sienna SE sits lower on a sport-tuned suspension, for even sharper handling, and it comes with exclusive instrumentation and unique interior colors and trim. New for 2013, the SE gains chrome-accented outside door handles.

Interior Versatility

Sienna’s open field of view creates an airy, roomy ambiance throughout the cabin. A conversation mirror, integrated into the sunglass case in the overhead console, allows comfortable visual contact with rear seat passengers. The third-row passengers can see forward more easily. Numerous storage bins, cupholders and cargo spaces are placed in convenient locations. 

 Both seven- and eight-seat cabins can be configured for a full contingent of passengers, a load of cargo, or a mix of both. In seven-seat cabins, the second row captain chairs can slide 23 inches, moving to the rear to create legroom for the tallest passengers and easier ingress and egress; or they can be moved forward close to the front seats to make it easy to reach a child passenger, while also allowing easy access for third-row passengers.
 

A sliding center console on the XLE all-wheel-drive and Limited grades can be shared between the front seats and second row passengers. The illuminated console slides into the second row area to provide convenient access for both rows.

For even more passenger comfort, there is standard second-row Lounge Seating on the Limited grade, which includes leg and foot support. Second-row captain chairs on all grades have dual armrests, and a one-motion release mechanism facilitates seat removal.

On eight-passenger models, the second row seats offer added versatility and convenience.  The second-row center seat can be removed and stowed in the left side of the rear-storage area. 

When the center seat is stowed, a cupholder and storage tray is revealed. The eight-passenger interior can easily be converted for seven passengers.

The second-row seats also feature a Tip Up and Long Slide feature, allowing them to slide forward and back on extended rails, making more room for passengers or cargo. All second-row seats, regardless of configuration, move out of the way with one touch to gain easy access to the third-row seats.

The 60/40 Split and Stow third-row seat folds flat with one motion, with the Limited front-wheel drive model receiving a power feature. With the third-row seat in use, there is enough storage for five golf bags or four large suitcases.  Four handy grocery hooks, with two in the back and two in the second-row seatbacks, add storage convenience. With the third-row seat stowed and the second-row seat removed, the cargo area is approximately eight feet long and four feet wide, providing up to 150 cubic feet of available space. 
 

 A wide rear door and wide side doors, a low floor height and one-touch second-row seats make it easy and convenient to load the Sienna.  Sliding the second-row seats all the way to the rear creates a walk-in aisle, making it easier to enter, exit, install a child seat, or place a child in a seat. 

Innovative Technologies

The available rear-seat Dual View Entertainment Center uses two displays side-by-side to create a seamless 16.4-inch widescreen image from a single source. The system can split the screen into two individual screens, each with input from separate sources. Used as a single screen, it can be easily seen from the third row, and it can be operated from any seat via remote control.

Used as two screens, the system can accommodate the preferences of two separate passengers who might want to play a video game or watch a second DVD simultaneously via auxiliary inputs. Other upgrades include the Panorama Camera rear monitor with a 180-degree view and on-screen back-up guides to help drivers to back into parking spots or driveways.

Safety

The standard Blind Spot Monitor on XLE and Limited grades uses sub-millimeter wave radar designed to detect vehicles in the driver’s blind spots. When the system detects a vehicle in the adjacent lane, it alerts the driver using indicators on the side mirrors. If the turn signal is on when the there is a vehicle in the blind spot of the driver’s intended lane, the indicator on the corresponding mirror will flash. New for 2013, the system incorporates a cross traffic alert, which can be especially helpful when backing out of a driveway or parking slot.
 

The standard Toyota Star Safety System™ equips the 2013 Toyota Sienna with Anti-lock Brakes (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA), enhanced Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Traction Control (TRAC), and Smart Stop Technology (SST). Enhanced VSC coordinates the Anti-lock Brake System (ABS), Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist with Traction Control (TRAC) and Electric Power Steering (EPS).

A Pre-Collision System (PCS) with pre-collision seatbelt system is an available option on the Limited grade, as is the latest in advanced vehicle control technology, Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM). The VDIM system coordinates brake control with engine output and steering inputs, allowing all the control and safety systems to cooperate seamlessly.  Unlike reactive traction systems, VDIM operates proactively. During normal driving, the system works smoothly to enhance control even before the vehicle reaches its limits.

Seven airbags are standard equipment, including dual-stage front and seat-mounted side airbags for the driver and front passenger, plus a segment-first driver’s side knee airbag. Side curtain airbags cover the length of the cabin, from the front seats to the third row. Active headrests are used in both front seats to help reduce the possibility of whiplash in a collision.

The Safety Connect™ telematics system comes with a one year complimentary trial subscription on Sienna Limited and is optional on XLE. Safety Connect offers four safety and security features: Automatic Collision Notification, Stolen Vehicle Location, Emergency Assistance Button (SOS), and Roadside Assistance.

Automatic Collision Notification is designed to automatically call a response center in case of airbag deployment or a severe rear-end collision. If a response agent cannot communicate with the occupants, the agent can contact the nearest emergency-services provider to dispatch assistance. Pushing the in-vehicle “SOS” button allows drivers to reach the response center to request emergency help as well. If a Sienna equipped with Safety Connect is stolen, agents can work with local authorities to help locate and recover the vehicle once a stolen vehicle report is filed.

Limited Warranty

Toyota’s 36-month/36,000 mile basic new-vehicle warranty applies to all components other than normal wear and maintenance items. Additional 60-month warranties cover powertrain for 60,000 miles and corrosion with no mileage limitation. 

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The 2012 Toyota Sienna is here at Toyota of Orangeburg

This minivan is fantastic! It's the 2012 Toyota Sienna. This is a vehicle you want to see. Make sure you visit us and enjoy a test drive. Click here to learn more about the Sienna.

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Toyota Reveals New Tagline "Let's Go Places"

Toyota announced an engaging new tagline today, "Let's Go Places," reflecting the company's commitment to more exciting products and the promise that customers are invited to take part in shaping Toyota's future. The new theme, which represents the vision of Toyota Motor Corporation President, Akio Toyoda, was revealed today at the Toyota National Dealer Meeting in Las Vegas.

"Let's Go Places" evokes the forward-looking and optimistic momentum of Toyota in America. It invites consumers on a journey to see new places, discover new possibilities and dream big dreams together with Toyota. "Let's Go Places" begins today to engage consumers to discover Toyota and will debut nationally on December 31, 2012, as part of the campaign for the radically new Avalon, the embodiment of Toyota's new direction. "Let's Go Places" replaces the previous Toyota tagline "Moving Forward."

"'Let's Go Places' speaks to the evolution of Toyota and our commitment to leading through innovation, enriching lives and connecting with customers in new ways they define," said Bill Fay, group vice president and general manager, Toyota Division. "It is energetic, aspirational, inclusive and very versatile. The phrase conveys a dual meaning of physically going places and taking off on an adventure, while also expressing optimism and the promise of exciting innovation that enriches people's lives. It allows our associates, customers, dealers, and suppliers to interpret it in ways that are most personally relevant to them."

"Let's Go Places" emphasizes the thrill of innovation for a better way to live and drive, and delivers on that promise in a variety of ways - from seven, exciting all-new or updated Toyota and Scion vehicles in 2013, to unique community-giving programs such as 100 Cars for Good, to partnerships like Toyota's Personal Branding Initiative to assist veterans in translating their military skills into employment opportunities.

The new tagline is the result of extensive research and collaboration with longtime partners Saatchi & Saatchi, Dentsu America, Conill, Burrell, Intertrend, and Grieco Research.

Beginning in 2013, "Let's Go Places" will be integrated into all of Toyota's national and regional advertising, engagement, communications and digital across all segments.

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Kudos to our staff for providing great customer service

"Shareef greeted me and treated me with outstanding customer service when I purchased my 2012 Sienna. Going from my already great '05 Camry to the new ' grandma ' wagon was a pleasant experience. For the exact color and features I wanted, he was able to have the new Sienna on the lot within hours. I have been so pleased with the quality and features of the new Toyota Sienna." -- cocockrell

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The 2012 Toyota Prius Five is the real deal

At first glance, it appears that the 2012 Toyota Prius hasn’t changed much and there isn’t really much new to report with the Japanese hybrid. But after inspecting the four-door sedan further, there are a number of changes that have been made to the third-generation car. We first need to look at the current market and where the first hybrid vehicle is today.

The Toyota Prius made its launch 15 years ago and continues to be the best-selling hybrid in the world. It continues to lead the pack with its 50 mpg combined fuel economy as the most fuel-efficient gas-powered passenger car available in the U.S. today.

It’s a bit of a surprise, but the EPA considers the Prius to be a midsize car, and the five-passenger sedan is so practical, it is used as a taxi in many cities around the globe. And since 2000, Toyota has sold over one million Prius models in the U.S. It’s hard to argue with the kind of success that Toyota has had with the Prius.

New upgrades for 2012

For 2012, the five-passenger hybrid gets a number of upgrades. Outside, the new Prius gets a minor refresh with updated headlamps and tail lamps, plus a new front fascia and bumper. While this week we are testing the Prius Five, the other models actually get more updates for 2012.

The Prius Two adds new 15-inch wheel covers and standard LED Daytime Running Lights (DRL). The Prius Three now features a standard three-door Smart Key entry system, and the Prius Four gets standard auto on/off headlamps. The Prius Four also adds new SofTex-trimmed seats and an eight-way power adjustable driver’s seat.

New Technology inside

The biggest news for the 2012 Prius is the audio/infotainment system that has been added to the Prius Two, Three and Four models. The Prius Two, features a new 6.1-inch touch-screen system with an AM/FM CD player unit that offers MP3/WMA playback capability with six speakers, a USB port for iPodconnectivity, auxiliary input jack, Bluetooth and audio streaming. Toyota says the display also provides vehicle information and allows the driver to customize vehicle settings.

The top-of-the-line Prius Five ($29,805) that we are testing this week came with the optional Advanced Technology Package ($4,320). It includes the Premium HDD Navigation System, Head-up Display, Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, Pre-Collision System and Lane Keep Assist. The Pre-Collision System retracts the front seatbelts and applies the brakes when the sensors determine that a crash is unavoidable. Although a bit annoying, the Lane Keep Assist can help the driver stay within the lane.

A Prius Sport Package

One notable option on the 2012 Prius includes a PLUS Performance accessory package that gives the otherwise boring Prius a sporty demeanor with better handling. The package comes from Toyota Racing Development (TRD) and starts with a seven-piece aerodynamic kit that gives the Prius an aggressive and lower-profile stance. The body kit also reduces the hybrid’s coefficient of drag, but no figures have been released as to any increase in fuel mileage.

The sport package also includes lightweight seventeen-inch forged alloy wheels that are wrapped with low profile 215/45R17 tires with a custom offset which increases track width for better stability at high speeds. The ride height is lowered by using track-tuned lowering springs which lower the vehicle 1.1 inches in the front and 1.3 inches in the rear. The overall effect of the sport package enhances steering response and improves the cornering ability. A tuned rear sway bar is added to reduce body lean for flatter cornering.

While the 2012 Toyota Prius would never be considered a sports sedan, the PLUS Performance package would certainly help give the hybrid a sporty feel. What hasn’t changed, is the Prius is still powered by the fuel-efficient 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine coupled to an electric motor for a combined output of 134 horsepower. The 2012 Toyota Prius gets an EPA estimated 51/48 city/highway fuel mileage rating.

Along with its fuel efficiency, four-door hatch practicality, and now additional technology and upgrades, consumers have more reasons to buy the popular hybrid.

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Take part in Toyota's Nationwide Clearance Event

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Sgt. Dakota Meyer and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce National Chamber Foundation’s Hiring Our Heroes Program to Assist Veterans in Job Searches

Toyota Motor Sales U.S.A., Inc. announced a partnership with Medal of Honor recipient Sgt. Dakota Meyer and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce’s National Chamber Foundation as part of an ongoing initiative to support returning troops and veterans making the transition from military to civilian jobs.   Sgt. Meyer, the first living Marine in three decades to receive the Medal of Honor, will be appearing at various Hiring Our Heroes job fairs around the country to meet with veterans and help them understand the importance of personal branding and how to translate military skills to future employers.

 

Toyota, Hiring Our Heroes and Sgt. Meyer recognized an existing void in the veteran job market and the need for skill translation tools to bridge the gap between military credentials and civilian job descriptions.    Working in unison to develop personal branding collateral, today will mark the beginning of distribution of those materials at 400 job fairs around the country.

 

Speaking at a job fair for veterans at Quantico Marine Base, Don Esmond, Senior Advisor, Toyota Motor Sales, Inc. and former Marine, said “The U.S. is currently facing an unemployment rate for post 9-11 veterans of more than 12%, which has the potential to increase as troops return home from overseas. We believe the Personal Branding Initiative is an important step forward in addressing this challenge because it helps veterans translate their military experience into marketable skills. Toyota is honored to be partnering with Sgt. Dakota Meyer and Hiring Our Heroes and we pledge our full support to the program.”  

 

As a former Marine sniper, Sgt. Meyer has first-hand knowledge and experience of the challenges facing military veterans as they try to acclimate and integrate into civilian life after their turn of duty.   Working closely with Toyota and Hiring Our Heroes, he will be offering his unique insights to the tools being developed, as well as speaking about the importance of personal branding.   Sgt. Meyer will be appearing at numerous job fairs around the country to help spread awareness to the U.S. veteran community.

 

“I was a sniper in the U.S. Marine Corps, so I understand firsthand how hard translating a military skill to a civilian skill can be.  Toyota understands the gap that exists when veterans apply to jobs and face specific challenges in matching future employers job descriptions,” said Sgt. Dakota Meyer. “Our country has been served by the people that make up the best employees – where qualities like loyalty, commitment and hard work are not only required, but honored. Since my return from service, I’ve been very passionate about doing what I can to help veterans. I believe this partnership with Toyota and the Hiring Our Heroes will take those efforts to the next level. I’m excited to be involved and look forward to spreading the word to veterans across the country.” 

 

Toyota’s partnership with Hiring Our Heroes will include prominent displays at job fairs around the country, as well as the ongoing development and promotion of personal branding materials that have been collaboratively developed.   Toyota will also have a seat on the Veterans Employment Advisory Council (VEAC) in the Chairman’s Circle, the highest level that a brand can participate with the U.S. Chamber.

 

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Full review of the 2013 RAV4 EV!

 

The 2013 Toyota RAV4 EV is the most advanced Alpha prototype electric vehicle we've ever driven. Or maybe it's a poster child for the 21st Century automotive industry where all sorts of new things are being tried, like when old-school automakers and ambitious start-ups find common purpose in rushing an all-electric crossover to market in two years. Or maybe it's the end result of a decade-long process of getting the Japanese automaker to bring back its popular – by EV standards, anyway – first-gen RAV4 EV for the new era of electric cars? It is, of course, all of these things, and that's what makes the RAV4 EV such an interesting vehicle: It not only offers surprisingly good performance on the road, it can also tell you some compelling stories as you jump from 0-60 in seven seconds. In a CUV. With an easy-to-achieve 100-mile range.

Most compelling, perhaps, is that the RAV4 EV is a real electric crossover with a real on-sale date. Namely, $49,800 (before any tax credits) and late summer 2012. Of course, the problem, aside from the hefty price, is that this CUV will only be available – initially, anyway – in four major California markets: Sacramento, San Francisco Bay Area, San Diego and Los Angeles/Orange County. Since the RAV4 EV will go on sale in The OC (don't call it that), it made sense that Toyota brought journalists to Newport Beach for some time behind the wheel. If you're not interested in the technical details or the three story lines we saw represented, here's all you need to know. When we first put the RAV4 EV into Sport driving mode, our honest reaction was to say out loud: "Holy crap!"

The second-generation RAV4 EV isn't really the second-generation at all. Toyota stopped making the original RAV4 EV in 2003 and there hasn't been much work done (publicly, at least) since then. In fact, it is unlikely that the 2013 version would have come to pass had Akio Toyoda, the president and CEO of Toyota Motor Corporation, and Tesla Motors CEO Elon Musk not announced in May 2010 that they would work together on electric vehicles, with the RAV4 EV being named as the candidate vehicle in July.

"People love SUVs and their current moral dilemma is the need for occasional versatility at the expense of everyday fuel economy."

As we noted in our Quick Spin of an early RAV4 EV prototype last year, the project is a rush job. We saw the first prototype at the LA Auto Show in November and the first demonstration program vehicles were on the road in February 2011. The frenetic pace doesn't mean that Toyota was first to bring an EV to the current market, just that the company was very clearly not interested in waiting any longer to offer something without a tailpipe.

It also happens to be an EV unlike anything else on the market. As Greg Bernas, chief engineer in the product development office (PDO) at the Toyota Technical Center (TTC), put it, "For us, the RAV4 was the obvious choice. We knew there was a void in the product offering in the market, and the RAV4, we felt, fit that void perfectly. Also, people love SUVs and their current moral dilemma is the need for occasional versatility at the expense of everyday fuel economy. Not so with the RAV4 EV."

Since the summer of 2010, then, Toyota and Tesla engineers have worked to adapt the Silicon Valley powertrain into a RAV4 V6. After deciding that Toyota would be in charge – originally, each thought the other would lead the development – the engineers started with a current-gen internal combustion-powered RAV4 and got to work. Snagging the long-in-the-tooth model means that, when the new version of that vehicles arrives, possibly later this year, the electric version will retain the older styling. Right now, the EV has new exterior features that identify it as having rejected the gas-burning engine – things like a markedly different front fascia and grille, unique mirrors, light fixtures, a rear spoiler, as well as EV badging all around.

The aero tweaks give the RAV4 EV a cD of .30, which Toyota points out is more like a sedan than your average CUV.

All of the exterior's zero-emission chrome doesn't hide the fact that this is still a RAV4, it's just that this is a significantly more aerodynamic RAV4. Those mirrors, for example, are styled after the Camry that's sold in Korea and reduce the coefficient of drag by 1.1 percent. The rear spoiler? A 2.5-percent improvement. The smoother underbody, which is possible thanks to there being a battery there instead of a lot of mufflers and whatnot? An 8.2-percent improvement. All together, the aero tweaks give the RAV4 EV a cD of .30, which Toyota points out is more like a sedan than your average CUV. When asked why these sorts of little improvements were not added to the gas-burning RAV4, Toyota's Sheldon Brown, the executive program manager in the TTC's PDO department, said that it's not so simple. The underbody panels, for example, didn't need to be designed to deal with a hot exhaust pipe and so you can't just use the same plastic and shape on the ICE RAV4. The mirrors and rear spoilers, though? Those seem easy enough to use no matter what the powertrain, so we'll keep our eyes open when the new model appears.

But the lesson here is clear: Make the vehicle as slippery as you can and the range will thank you for it. When Toyota unwrapped the RAV4 EV, it was proudly "powered by Tesla," and based on all of the discussions we had with Toyota representatives about the 100-mile-plus range of the RAV4 EV – thanks in large part to Tesla's 41.8-kWh battery – Toyota is still proud of the benefits it received out of the deal.

The RAV4 EV uses the same AC induction motor as the Model S with a different gear set.

Does Tesla or Toyota come out the winner from this partnership? It's unclear. Sure, there's a case to be made that they are both winners, but if we had to guess, it kind of feels like Tesla might be getting the better deal. Toyota, which is also working on other cars with plugs – namely the all-electric Scion iQ EV (coming soon) and the Prius Plug-in (now available) – has learned about a different way to integrate a battery and how to develop an electric powertrain for a large vehicle. The RAV4 EV weighs 4,032 pounds, after all, compared to the ICE RAV4's range of 3,360 to 3,699 pounds, depending on trim level and engine, and weight kills efficiency. The aero tweaks, powertrain enhancements and low-rolling resistance P225/65R17 all-season tires all work together here to make up that difference.

Tesla, too, learned something about making an electric CUV – the RAV4 EV uses the same AC induction motor as the Model S with a different gear set, for example, and the two companies jointly filed patents on the battery structure design to make the pack fit into the ICE platform – but when you look at the overall picture for the two firms, Tesla has more to gain. The company is currently developing the Model X CUV, which shares the Tesla Vehicle Platform with the Model S, and this is why we can look at the RAV4 EV as a sort of stealth test bed for the Model X, that we can see the RAV4 EV as a weird alpha prototype. The official line is that this is not the case. Christina Ra, Tesla's senior manager of communications, told us that since the Model X is, like the Model S, built from the ground up to truly leverage the EV powertrain, "It's safe to say that the experiences of developing Model S and RAV4 EV were very different – and both very successful – for Tesla. Model X development will follow suit more closely to Tesla's experiences with Model S."

But the evolution of the Model X is a story for another time. Today, the focus is on the RAV4 EV, and what it's like behind the wheel. As we said, "Holy crap."

Click over to Sport mode, where the dash turns red and the top speed climbs to an impressive and illegal 100 mph, and you won't notice the noise.

Those were the words of my driving companion for the day, Autoblog writer Michael Harley (who is more used to testing 500-horsepower gas-guzzling supercars than electric CUVs) uttered the first time he engaged Sport mode and accelerated. His words don't mean the RAV4 EV – with a motor that has a maximum output of about 115 kW, or around 154 horsepower – was as quick as a supercar, but the 0-30 miles per hour performance certainly exceeded the expectations of a veteran road tester not used to the instant torque of an electric vehicle.

That is, at least in Sport mode, with its 273 pound-feet. In Normal mode where the 0-60 time drops to 8.6 seconds, max torque falls to 218 lb-ft and top speed is 85 mph, people would likely assume it was just a surprisingly powerful ICE CUV if you didn't tell them the car was electric. A quiet one, with just a hint of road noise in the rear, but nothing that's overly bothersome or that can't be overcome by turning up the radio. Click over to Sport mode, where the dash turns red and the top speed climbs to an impressive and illegal 100 mph, and you won't notice the noise. Shift from D to B for extra braking power – which brings back the enthusiastic regen of the prototype – and it might just be the most fun you can have using just one foot, outside of a Tesla-branded vehicle, of course. The front-wheel drive RAV4 EV uses blended braking, with regenerative brakes to capture energy and hydraulic brakes that kick in when the force required to stop the CUV exceeds the ability of the regen brakes. When in D, this is all transparent and feels like an ICE vehicle.

The truth is, the RAV4 EV can almost be too fast. We managed to keep it roughly at the speed limit – mostly because we were boxed in by southern California traffic on the highway – but we heard multiple reports from other drivers who were shocked to realize they were going over 90 mph. The quiet smoothness of the RAV4 EV easily hides this. This is why we're pretty sure that Toyota would sell more of these if it lets people test the Sport mode out for themselves. Well, it would if the beancounters had any faith in this EV (they don't), but we'll get into that below.

If you're prone to range anxiety, then "max range" is your comfort number.

From the test drive position, the RAV4 EV steals from the Prius (the shifter is lifted from the third-gen hybrid model) and like many modern vehicles that have gone on a knob-diet, it has lost tactile input devices in favor of a touchscreen (for navigation, music and apps) and capacitative touch switchgear (HVAC controls). As much as we like what these screens show us, we still feel that physical buttons beat touchscreens any day of the week, any hour of the day. Also, the smudge-loving glossy panels to either side of the screen need to go. Even with these complaints, the new center stack does wonders to update the look of the inside of the RAV4; the ICE model's interior has been around since 2005, a painfully long time in such a hot segment.

Toyota has done something interesting with the "miles to empty" display, and that is to give you two numbers. The first, the one you'll use most of the time, is how many miles you'll be able to go if you keep up your current driving style and HVAC settings. The second, the one you'll never use until you really, really need it, is the "max range." That is, if you turned off the A/C or heater and drove like there's an egg under the acceleration pedal, how far could you go? If you're prone to range anxiety, then this is your comfort number.

These two numbers give rise to two differently shaded circles on the navigation map screen when you ask the vehicle how far you'll be able to drive. After you select between one-way and round trip, the screen shows you a rough estimate of just how far away you could end up from where you currently sit. If your destination is in that target area, especially in the lighter, inner circle, start driving and don't worry about range, emissions or finding time to gas up.

Official EPA estimates are not out yet, but the RAV4 EV appears to be a true 100-mile electric vehicle.

It can be kind of fun to play with this map and the HVAC settings to see how much your range changes based on how quickly you want to get hot or cold. There are four HVAC modes: Normal, Eco Lo, Eco Hi and off. Off gives you max range and Normal the least. The two Eco modes split the middle, and we were perfectly comfortable with Eco Hi (the more efficient of the two) during our drive.

So, how much range is in the battery? We started our drive with a full battery and the max range read 155 miles. We then proceeded to run around The OC (don't call it that) on a day with temperatures in the high 70s with the air conditioner on Eco Hi and spent most of the time in Sport mode – why wouldn't we? – and, after 40.5 miles in the city, highway and going up and down hills, our max range was still 92 miles. The EcoCoach said we scored a poor 68 out of 100, and our "keep driving like this" range estimate was just under 70 miles. Official EPA estimates are not out yet, but based on our limited testing, the RAV4 EV appears to be a true 100-mile electric vehicle.

Toyota will warranty the battery for eight years, 100,000 miles.

It can be, at least. On top of the driving modes and the HVAC modes, Toyota also offers two charging modes, standard and extended. Toyota has partnered with Leviton to offer a 40-amp home charging station (lower amperage versions are also available) for $1,590 installed, but the RAV4 EV does not have a DC fast charging option. Standard charging, which is what Toyota recommends people use most of the time and only charges the pack to 35 kWh full, should get a 92 mile-range estimate from the EPA. This will take as little as five hours when using a 40-amp, 240-volt system. Extended uses the whole 41.8 kWh and would get 113 miles from the EPA, taking six hours to fully charge. Lower output charging stations will obviously extend this time, and with a regular 120-volt home outlet, it would take over 44 hours to fill an empty battery. As for the RAV4 EV's final EPA range number, it will be a blend of these two modes. No matter which mode you charge in, Toyota will warranty the battery for eight years, 100,000 miles. Both the standard and extended mode use the 10 kW on-board charger.

Aside from the expected smartphone apps, the Chevrolet Volt and the Nissan Leaf both have a little charging indicator light on the dashboard, visible from outside the car. On the RAV4 EV, this light is located in the tinted window above the charging post, which itself is above the passenger side rear wheel. Toyota uses two lights to lights to indicate what the status is:

a. Left light blinking: charging is zero to 50 percent complete
b. Left light on, right side blinking: charging is 50 to 99 percent complete
c. Both lights on: charge complete
d. Both lights blinking: charging malfunction

Did we mention there's a smartphone app?

Which brings us to the big picture. A decade ago, Toyota was selling a RAV4 EV that was based on the gas-powered RAV4, got around 100 to 120 miles of range and had a top speed of 78 mph. 450 of those vehicles are still around. We've been in them. Owners love them and have been asking the company for years to offer them again, even though the old RAV4 EVs still work great. Around 2,000 hand raisers have already said they'd like to know more about the 2013 RAV4 EV.

Rear cargo space is unchanged at 73 cubic feet behind the front row with the rear seats folded down.

Today, Toyota is getting ready to sell an electric CUV with almost the exact same specs as the one from 2002. Sure, so much has been updated and changed that it's not entirely logical to call this the "second-gen" model, but there it is. Plus, some of specs that everyday drivers care about are similar to the current ICE RAV4, too. Rear cargo space, for example, is unchanged at 73 cubic feet behind the front row with the rear seats folded down. The RAV4 EV seats five and there is even that little extra cargo cubby in the floor behind the rear wheels.

If we're right that this is going to be a popular EV, then Toyota is going to need to revamp its production plans. Right now, the agreement with Tesla is for 2,600 vehicles over three model years. If this were to really take off, Toyota will have to sit down with Telsa and see if it's possible to build more. And Tesla's already busy with ramping up Model S production, getting ready for the Model X and more.

"Will the RAV4 EV help us meet our compliance requirements? Absolutely. Did we create a barebones EV just to earn credits for the mandate? Absolutely not."

For whatever reason – and it probably has more to do with how much money will be lost on each one sold than anything else – Toyota is being conservative with its sales approach, trying to target the exact same high-earners, green-minded in California that have already been bombarded by ads for the Leaf and Volt. Toyota calls its sales plan "measured and focused." Sure, the CUV offers more room than either of those vehicles, but why the initial sales markets don't include CUV-happy green places like Seattle or Portland mystifies us. Bill Fay, group vice president and general manager of Toyota Division at Toyota Motor Sales, says Toyota had four goals to fill with the RAV4 EV program. Three are vague, feel-good items: "environmental leadership," "develop a unique electric vehicle" and to fulfill the Toyota-Tesla partnership. The fourth, though, is telling: to meet Toyota's California zero-emissions vehicle mandate. He said, "Some people have called the RAV4 EV nothing more than a compliance car... will the RAV4 EV help us meet our compliance requirements? Absolutely. Did we create a barebones EV just to earn credits for the mandate? Absolutely not."

Unlike when the new RAV4 EV was unveiled in May, Toyota representatives were a bit more open to the idea that 2,600 might be the starting point, not the ending number, and we heard a lot of things like, "We're still going to find out what the market for EVs is," and that the initial response is a "positive first step." It seems wasteful for Toyota and Tesla to spend all this money and engineering effort on just 2,600 electric vehicles, and it will be tremendously interesting to see how the market reacts to the first real all-electric CUV of the 21st Century.