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Thursday, November 29, 2012
Wednesday, November 28, 2012
Tuesday, November 27, 2012
Toyota Named Best Resale Value Brand for 2013 by Kelley Blue Book
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 USA Newsroom
Monday, November 26, 2012
Car Safety Tip: Avoid Distractions
Many states in the U.S. have passed laws that ban the use of cell phones while driving. The reason is the number of deaths attributed to this seemingly harmless activity: 2,600 deaths nationwide every year, by some estimates. In fact, those numbers may actually be too low, due to the continued rise in cell phone use behind the wheel. If you think that talking and texting while driving isn't a big deal, consider this: One researcher compared the reaction time of a 20-year-old driver talking on a cell phone to that of a 70-year-old driver. What's more, working a cell phone behind the wheel can delay reaction times by as much as 20 percent.
It isn't just cell phones that cause distractions, however. Eating, applying makeup, fiddling with electronic devices or interacting with passengers also diverts a driver's attention in potentially deadly ways. Perhaps the best advice on driving distractions came from rocker Jim Morrison: "Keep your eyes on the road, your hands upon the wheel."
Courtesy of: How Stuff Works
Wednesday, November 21, 2012
Hey guys, receive a voucher for a butterball turkey with a vehicle purchase this Thanksgiving!
Normal 0 false false false EN-US X-NONE X-NONE MicrosoftInternetExplorer4 Normal 0 false false false EN-US X-NONE X-NONE MicrosoftInternetExplorer4 There are 9 different Toyota models with 0.0% APR financing for up to 60 months AND $0 Out of Pocket lease specials with approved credit.
Click here for more information.
Monday, November 19, 2012
Car care tip - Don’t let your car run low on fuel!
Most of today’s vehicles have fuel-injected engines that rely on in-tank electric pumps that use gas to cool and lubricate its components. Driving your fuel-injected engine frequently on fumes could cause hundreds of dollars in repairs, and leave you stranded on the side of the road. A good rule of thumb – keep the fuel level above a quarter tank to keep your car running well, and to avoid running out of gas!
Courtesy of: The Christian Science Monitor
Tuesday, November 13, 2012
Radical New Toyota Prius in the Pipeline
It's been some 15 years since Toyota launched the first Prius with the tag line "Just in time for the 21st century." While it's commonplace now, back then, the Prius was at the cutting edge of the hybrid revolution. Toyota followed up with a parade of hybrids, expanding the use of its fuel-efficient tech to its luxury Lexus lineup as well as building a brand around the Prius.
Now, with nearly every carmaker pinching some of the hybrid pie, Toyota looks to be planning a radically different approach for the next Prius, as we recently learned from an anonymous source close to Toyota in this exclusive interview. Here's what our source said is in store for the next-generation Prius.
Q: When can we expect the next Prius?
A: It was originally scheduled for a late 2014 launch, but the global financial crisis delayed our advanced development of the car, so it's now due around spring 2015.
Q: Considering that most of today's cars take just 3 years to develop from the product planning stage to production, that sounds like an abnormally long gestation period. What's up?
A: We started with development of the next-generation THS (Toyota's Hybrid Synergy Drive) system. As you know, the present Prius went on sale in 2009 with a model life of 6 years. So you could say that our R&D of the new car is not that far behind. However, the all-new THS system was being developed separate from the next Prius, in a totally different department. That means that we can't move on the Prius until the new THS system is ready.
A: We started with development of the next-generation THS (Toyota's Hybrid Synergy Drive) system. As you know, the present Prius went on sale in 2009 with a model life of 6 years. So you could say that our R&D of the new car is not that far behind. However, the all-new THS system was being developed separate from the next Prius, in a totally different department. That means that we can't move on the Prius until the new THS system is ready.
Q: You are saying that the specifications of the new THS have just been finalized and that the new Prius is well underway?
A: Yes, I suppose you could say that. It's just that, well, there are various complications. You see, a number of basic THS patents will expire in 2013. That's not to say that some other carmaker can pick up the ball immediately and get to where we are. Conversely, when we launch the new THS system, we will once again jump ahead of the competition.
A: Yes, I suppose you could say that. It's just that, well, there are various complications. You see, a number of basic THS patents will expire in 2013. That's not to say that some other carmaker can pick up the ball immediately and get to where we are. Conversely, when we launch the new THS system, we will once again jump ahead of the competition.
Q: So the next Prius will be the first model to employ the all-new THS system?
A: As it turns out, a couple of new hybrid models will be launched in 2015, but the Prius will most probably be the first as it is nearing completion now.
A: As it turns out, a couple of new hybrid models will be launched in 2015, but the Prius will most probably be the first as it is nearing completion now.
Q: That's what we'd like to hear. Can you please explain the development concept in more detail?
A: Putting it plainly, the concept is this: "Getting back to the basics of the original Prius." The current model is selling well (in the U.S. and Japan at least) thanks to the eco-boom and high gas prices. But when we launched the original model with the catch-cry of "just in time for the 21st century," our main sales point was being ahead of the curve and offering the most advanced technology. We were able to do what no other carmaker could do - mass-produce the world's first hybrid. But today, Nissan and Honda as well as many foreign brands also have hybrids, so it's not rare anymore. Hybrids are selling like hotcakes, especially in Japan.
A: Putting it plainly, the concept is this: "Getting back to the basics of the original Prius." The current model is selling well (in the U.S. and Japan at least) thanks to the eco-boom and high gas prices. But when we launched the original model with the catch-cry of "just in time for the 21st century," our main sales point was being ahead of the curve and offering the most advanced technology. We were able to do what no other carmaker could do - mass-produce the world's first hybrid. But today, Nissan and Honda as well as many foreign brands also have hybrids, so it's not rare anymore. Hybrids are selling like hotcakes, especially in Japan.
Q: Are you saying that the image of the Prius that Toyota originally wanted to build, and the one that is selling so well today, has lost direction?
A: I wouldn't say that. If the truth be known, Prius sales only really took off after we launched the second generation. If we check out the buyer breakdown back then, we saw lots of forward thinkers in the mix, like scholarly types, wealthy businessmen, and those with a strong creative edge. Today, however, the vast majority of customers [in Japan] for the current Prius are senior citizens looking for a reasonably priced car with class-leading fuel economy. Our job with the next Prius is to try to regain the interest of customers from our second-generation car.
A: I wouldn't say that. If the truth be known, Prius sales only really took off after we launched the second generation. If we check out the buyer breakdown back then, we saw lots of forward thinkers in the mix, like scholarly types, wealthy businessmen, and those with a strong creative edge. Today, however, the vast majority of customers [in Japan] for the current Prius are senior citizens looking for a reasonably priced car with class-leading fuel economy. Our job with the next Prius is to try to regain the interest of customers from our second-generation car.
Q: So by employing an all-new THS system, you hope to bring those customers back to the showroom? Will you aim for huge sales again with the new Prius?
A: THS will be important, but big sales are not our main aim. We plan to focus buyer attention on the slightly smaller and cheaper Aqua, the model below the Prius [in Japan], while overseas, the next Prius will be crucial. In fact, our sales target is roughly the same as the current model. But like the first two Priuses, the next Prius will employ the most advanced technology we have, and while delivering class-leading economy, it will redefine the "hybrid" as we know it.
A: THS will be important, but big sales are not our main aim. We plan to focus buyer attention on the slightly smaller and cheaper Aqua, the model below the Prius [in Japan], while overseas, the next Prius will be crucial. In fact, our sales target is roughly the same as the current model. But like the first two Priuses, the next Prius will employ the most advanced technology we have, and while delivering class-leading economy, it will redefine the "hybrid" as we know it.
Q: Tell us more.
A: The design will change significantly, the most radical of which will be the lowering of the hood and waistline. The hood height will drop in height by at least 90 mm [3.5 inches] and it will lose its characteristic wedge shape. The A-pillar will retreat backwards while the roof line will be pushed forward by around 500 mm [19.5 inches] with two aims: 1) to improve aerodynamics and 2) to improve the overall look.
A: The design will change significantly, the most radical of which will be the lowering of the hood and waistline. The hood height will drop in height by at least 90 mm [3.5 inches] and it will lose its characteristic wedge shape. The A-pillar will retreat backwards while the roof line will be pushed forward by around 500 mm [19.5 inches] with two aims: 1) to improve aerodynamics and 2) to improve the overall look.
Q: And to achieve that effect, the THS unit must be downsized considerably.
A: Yes, that's right. But these significant revisions were made possible thanks to an all-new platform as well.
A: Yes, that's right. But these significant revisions were made possible thanks to an all-new platform as well.
Q: Correct me if I'm wrong, but the current Prius employs the so-called "new MC" mass-produced platform, which is also employed on models from the European Auris to the Corolla to Japan-spec Alphard minivan. That level of versatility means that it still has the potential to lose even more weight. Right?
A: Yes, that's right. We are developing our next generation "C" platform as part of our Toyota New Global Architecture [TNGA] strategy. The top of the range model that will sit on this new platform will be the Prius, which by the way will shed over 150 pounds. And the new THS system means that the engine mounts will be very different to the current car's setup as well.
A: Yes, that's right. We are developing our next generation "C" platform as part of our Toyota New Global Architecture [TNGA] strategy. The top of the range model that will sit on this new platform will be the Prius, which by the way will shed over 150 pounds. And the new THS system means that the engine mounts will be very different to the current car's setup as well.
Q: So the four main revisions on the new Prius will be the totally new styling, lower curb weight, a new more compact hybrid system, and a lower center of gravity? Is that about the extent of it?
A: Yes. The body size will change very little to the current car and maintain the present 106-inch wheelbase. Front overhang will decrease by just under 2 inches thanks to the smaller powertrain and hybrid system. But as I said before, the overall styling will change considerably, but it will still be recognizable as a Prius.
A: Yes. The body size will change very little to the current car and maintain the present 106-inch wheelbase. Front overhang will decrease by just under 2 inches thanks to the smaller powertrain and hybrid system. But as I said before, the overall styling will change considerably, but it will still be recognizable as a Prius.
Q: Yeah, by doing away with that "one-motion" wedge-shaped styling, the car's overall look will change radically. And dare I say, make it more stylish.
A: That's right. By lowering the height of the hood, we are not only improving its aerodynamic efficiency, but we are also responding to the demands of the U.S. market. Q: Huh?
A: Our research tells us that many Americans think the current Prius' waistline is too high and its shape too "wedgy." They say it does not look sleek enough. We are being told to give the next model a sleeker, lower profile. And that's exactly what is going to happen. Q: Any other design hints?
A: The central part of the roof will be the highest section of the car, and the further you go back, the narrower the car will become. By that I mean that the car silhouette from the B-pillar aft will not be that different to the current model.
A: That's right. By lowering the height of the hood, we are not only improving its aerodynamic efficiency, but we are also responding to the demands of the U.S. market. Q: Huh?
A: Our research tells us that many Americans think the current Prius' waistline is too high and its shape too "wedgy." They say it does not look sleek enough. We are being told to give the next model a sleeker, lower profile. And that's exactly what is going to happen. Q: Any other design hints?
A: The central part of the roof will be the highest section of the car, and the further you go back, the narrower the car will become. By that I mean that the car silhouette from the B-pillar aft will not be that different to the current model.
Q: I see. And what about the car's utility?
A: The new version will get a more luggage space, which translates to space for 4 golf bags in Japan. Because of that revision, we are switching rear suspension from the current torsion beam setup to a new double wishbone construction, which will improve the car's all-round stability.
A: The new version will get a more luggage space, which translates to space for 4 golf bags in Japan. Because of that revision, we are switching rear suspension from the current torsion beam setup to a new double wishbone construction, which will improve the car's all-round stability.
Q: Can you tell me anything more about the new THS system?
A: As I mentioned, several patents will expire in 2013, so several new technologies have been developed to replace those. The current 2ZR-FXE engine will be significantly modified, while the inverter and motor will be downsized but deliver more power. Q: And what about the batteries?
A: Ah, yes. We will continue to offer NiMH batteries as well as the lithium-ion variety. I know you'd expect by now that we upgrade all cars to Li-ion, but to tell the truth, our engineers have found that NiMH batteries actually manage power delivery better when it comes to intensive consumption and recharging of electricity.
A: As I mentioned, several patents will expire in 2013, so several new technologies have been developed to replace those. The current 2ZR-FXE engine will be significantly modified, while the inverter and motor will be downsized but deliver more power. Q: And what about the batteries?
A: Ah, yes. We will continue to offer NiMH batteries as well as the lithium-ion variety. I know you'd expect by now that we upgrade all cars to Li-ion, but to tell the truth, our engineers have found that NiMH batteries actually manage power delivery better when it comes to intensive consumption and recharging of electricity.
Q: Really? So that's why the changeover to Li-ion is taking longer than expected? By the way, we haven't really spoken about fuel efficiency targets yet. Can you give me an idea of what to expect?
A: OK. The lower hood height and roof height are both aimed at improving aerodynamics and mileage, which we expect to clear 40km/L. That's about 90 miles/gallon, which is about 20 percent better than the current car's 70 miles/gallon. [Note: Expect mileage in the U.S. car to improve from 50 mpg to at least 60 mpg combined.]
A: OK. The lower hood height and roof height are both aimed at improving aerodynamics and mileage, which we expect to clear 40km/L. That's about 90 miles/gallon, which is about 20 percent better than the current car's 70 miles/gallon. [Note: Expect mileage in the U.S. car to improve from 50 mpg to at least 60 mpg combined.]
Q: That's a significant improvement. But what about the Prius PHV that has just been launched in Japan?
A: Given the initial high cost of the PHV and the fact that we don't foresee great advances in electric charging infrastructure in the near future, we don't expect that specification to have made significant strides by 2015. For your information, a PHV version will be launched at the same time as the next Prius, which as you may have guessed is slated for a 2015 debut.
A: Given the initial high cost of the PHV and the fact that we don't foresee great advances in electric charging infrastructure in the near future, we don't expect that specification to have made significant strides by 2015. For your information, a PHV version will be launched at the same time as the next Prius, which as you may have guessed is slated for a 2015 debut.
Q: What kind of performance can we expect from the PHV?
A: In EV mode, it will have a maximum speed of around 62 mph while its range in EV mode will be around 22 miles. As far as mileage goes, we have heard that it will be rated at 112 mpg in Europe with CO2 of 49g/km.
A: In EV mode, it will have a maximum speed of around 62 mph while its range in EV mode will be around 22 miles. As far as mileage goes, we have heard that it will be rated at 112 mpg in Europe with CO2 of 49g/km.
Q: Will the drivetrain stay the same?
A: Good question. Actually, the next Prius will be the first model to get 4WD. The rear wheels will be driven by a motor in what we call an e-4WD system. Targeting snowy areas, the rears will operate up to 37 mph. Above that speed, it becomes a purely front-wheel drive car. Overall, it sounds like a huge leap forward is in store for the Prius. It can't come soon enough, as European hybrids, EVs, U.S. range-extenders, and even Mazda's new Skyactiv technology are all looking to cut into Toyota's hybrid dominance. A new Prius that looks sleeker and sportier, and with improved handling and better mileage? This total redefinition cannot come quick enough.
A: Good question. Actually, the next Prius will be the first model to get 4WD. The rear wheels will be driven by a motor in what we call an e-4WD system. Targeting snowy areas, the rears will operate up to 37 mph. Above that speed, it becomes a purely front-wheel drive car. Overall, it sounds like a huge leap forward is in store for the Prius. It can't come soon enough, as European hybrids, EVs, U.S. range-extenders, and even Mazda's new Skyactiv technology are all looking to cut into Toyota's hybrid dominance. A new Prius that looks sleeker and sportier, and with improved handling and better mileage? This total redefinition cannot come quick enough.
Thursday, November 8, 2012
Tuesday, November 6, 2012
Folks, check out this certified used '12 Camry LE. A beautiful car!
Come in for a test drive or call (877) 468-3022 for more info!
Monday, November 5, 2012
Winter car care tip: Time for a tune-up!
If you haven’t taken your car to the shop for a while, now is the time to do so. A tune-up will help keep your car running longer and may save you money by detecting potential problems early.
Courtesy of: Allstate
Thursday, November 1, 2012
Toyota Celebrates 35 Years of Research and Development in the United States
Toyota Technical Center (TTC), a division of Toyota Motor Engineering and Manufacturing North America, Inc., will celebrate its 35th Anniversary with team members and executives this week at locations in Michigan, Arizona and California.
Toyota Technical Center (TTC) has been the driving force behind Toyota's North American engineering and research & development (R&D) activities since 1977. Headquartered in Michigan, TTC has R&D facilities in Ann Arbor, Saline, Plymouth and Livonia. In California,
TTC has R&D facilities in Gardena and Torrance and operates the Toyota Arizona Proving Ground near Phoenix.
TTC has major vehicle development responsibility for Avalon, Sienna, Tundra, Tacoma, Venza and RAV4 EV. The 2013 Avalon and 2012 RAV4 Electric Vehicle are the latest vehicles to have been engineered at TTC.
In 2011, TTC established the Collaborative Safety Research Center (CSRC) to complement its advanced research activities. CSRC has committed $50 million towards safety related research. As of September 2012, CSRC has partnered with 16 universities, agencies and research institutions on 26 projects to help advance auto safety research across the industry.
Giving Back to Our Community
To mark the 35th anniversary, TTC Team Members selected 10 non-profit organizations in their communities, and Toyota is donating a total of $35,000 to these agencies. Additionally, TTC donated a total of $12,500 to the six fire departments that serve their communities.
Amanda Uhle, Executive Director of 826Michigan, an after-school tutoring program and one of the recipients, commented: “We are honored and delighted by this gift. I remain so grateful for Toyota’s partnership and community support over the years. It means the world to us!”
Another recipient was Packages from Home, Judy Hayes-Packing Coordinator. “Thank you for your generous contribution in support of our military,” she said. “This is our 4th year partnering with Toyota to send packages to our Troops. It has been a great experience!"
Courtesy of: Toyota USA Newsroom
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