Tuesday, June 26, 2012

Toyota Avalon to get 40 mpg hybrid powertrain!

Toyota's remorseless drive to maintain its largest-by-far share of the global hybrid vehicle market continues apace.

The latest vehicle to add a hybrid variant is the all-new 2013 Toyota Avalon, the large, luxurious, mid-size front-wheel drive sedan sold only in North America.

The 2013 Toyota Avalon Hybrid follows the model set by its competitors the Buick LaCrosse and Lincoln MKZ by offering either a hybrid four-cylinder powertrain and a more powerful non-hybrid V-6 alternative.

The new luxury sedan will set a new bar for fuel efficiency, though: Toyota says the EPA will give the 2013 Avalon Hybrid a combined rating of 40 mpg.

That's 1 mpg higher than the outgoing 2012 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid, and far higher than the mild-hybrid Buick LaCrosse with eAssist, which is rated at 29 mpg.

The new hybrid Avalon model uses a 154-horsepower, 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine tuned to run on the more efficient Atkinson cycle, paired to the latest generation of Toyota's Hybrid Synergy Drive system.

That hybrid-electric power unit contains two motor-generators that can add additional torque to complement the engine output, recharge the battery pack using regenerative braking, and power the car away from rest up to speeds of 25 mph under light-load conditions for up to 1 mile.

Total powertrain output is 200 horsepower, and the driver can select among three drive modes--EV, Eco, and Sport--as well as the standard mode. "EV" mode lets the driver direct the car to operate only electrically, when quiet operation is desired.

Eco dials down the performance and the heating and ventilation, for better fuel efficiency. Sport does the opposite, allowing faster acceleration and quicker steering response when sportier performance is needed.

The engine and hybrid package is similar to that used in hybrid versions of the new 2012 Toyota Camry, which are rated at 41 mpg combined for the Camry Hybrid LE model and 40 mpg combined for the Camry Hybrid XLE.

Befitting the Avalon's role as the largest and most muffled model in the Toyota lineup, the company notes that it has a new, quieter design for the fan that blows cooling air over the nickel-metal-hydride battery pack located at the front of the trunk floor.

The hybrid transaxle also incorporates a new flywheel-damper that smooths the engagement of the engine when it is switched on.

The other engine for the 2013 Avalon is a 268-hp, 3.5-liter V-6 paired to a six-speed automatic transmission.

Dimensionally, the new Avalon is slightly smaller in length, width, and height than the 2012 model it replaces. It sits on the same 111-inch wheelbase, and Toyota has shaved a bit more than 100 pounds from the car compared to its predecessor--which should help fuel efficiency.

The 2013 Toyota Avalon is built in Georgetown, Kentucky; the full lineup of new Avalons will go on sale later this year.

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Courtesy of Fox News

Monday, June 25, 2012

Thursday, June 21, 2012

How to Use The Camry Commute App

Check out what our customers have to say about us!

"I had a wonderful shopping experience. There were no high pressure sales tactics used. My wife and I found our salesman very courteous, we recommend purchasing your next vehicle from Valley High Toyota" -Happy Scion Owner

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Tuesday, June 19, 2012

First 25 Winners Announced for Toyota 100 Cars for Good Program

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Toyota today announced the first 25 winners of the Toyota 100 Cars for Good program, a national philanthropic program that is awarding 100 cars to 100 nonprofits over the course of 100 consecutive days. Winners are selected each day through public voting on Facebook at www.100carsforgood.com.
Each day through August 21, five nonprofit organizations will be profiled on the 100 Cars for Good Facebook page. Registered Facebook users are able to vote once daily for the nonprofit they think can do the most good with a new vehicle. The organization with the most votes at the end of the day wins a new Toyota vehicle. The four runners-up each receive a $1,000 cash grant from Toyota.
“We are delighted to announce the first 25 winners of the Toyota 100 Cars for Good program,” said Jim Lentz, president and chief executive officer of Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc. “Toyota created the 100 Cars for Good program because we appreciate what a big difference a new car or truck can make for organizations working to improve lives and strengthen communities across America. It’s been very gratifying to put the public in the ‘driver’s seat’ to select the winning organizations. 100 Cars for Good has also allowed Toyota to build on more than half a billion dollars of support the company has provided to nonprofits throughout the United States. We wish all of this year’s finalists the best of luck.”
The first 25 100 Cars for Good winners represent a cross-section of important local causes, including providing nutritious meals to kids, helping communities struck by natural disaster and alleviating the suffering of abandoned, abused or injured animals.

The first 25 winners in Toyota’s 100 Cars for Good program are:

 

DC Scores

Washington, DC
May 14, 2012
Cincinnati Zoo

Cincinnati, Ohio
May 15, 2012
Lehmi County Humane Society

Salmon, Idaho
May 16, 2012
Pibbles & More Animal Rescue

Ridgewood, New York
May 17, 2012
Recycled Doggies, Inc.

Cincinnati, Ohio
May 18, 2012
Hope for Paws Animal Rescue

Los Angeles, California
May 19, 2012
The Dream Center

Los Angeles, California
May 20, 2012
SPCA International's Operation Baghdad Pups

New York, New York
May 21, 2012
Petfinder Foundation

Tucson, Arizona
May 22, 2012
Together We Rise

Chino, California
May 23, 2012
The Children’s Lunchbox

Anchorage, Alaska
May 24, 2012
All Hands Volunteers

Carlisle, Massachusetts
May 25, 2012
Detroit Dog Rescue
Grosse Pointe Woods, Michigan
May 26, 2012
Fences for Fido

Portland, Oregon
May 27, 2012
Central Vermont Humane Society

East Montpelier, Vermont
May 28, 2012
Operation Blankets of Love

Granada Hills, California
May 29, 2012
Kristie’s Foundation

Anaheim, California
May 30, 2012
K9 Services German Shepherd Rescue, Inc.

Middleburg, Florida
May 31, 2012
Animal Aid, Inc.

Oakland Park, Florida
June 1, 2012
Clark County Community Services

Winchester, Kentucky
June 2, 2012
Shore Hearts Golden Retriever

Lanoka Harbor, New Jersey
June 3, 2012
Special Olympics Illinois

Normal, Illinois
June 4, 2012
Last Chance Ranch

Quakertown, Pennsylvania
June 5, 2012
Rikki’s Refuge

Rapidan, Virginia
June 6, 2012
Feed My Sheep

Gulfport, Mississippi
June 7, 2012


Winning organizations can choose from the following vehicles: Camry Hybrid, Highlander SUV, Prius v Hybrid, Sienna minivan, Sienna Mobility or Tundra full-sized pickup. A six-year, 100,000-mile powertrain warranty will also be provided for each vehicle, compliments of Toyota Financial Services.


The 500 finalists, from which the 100 winners are ultimately selected, were certified by an independent panel of judges who are experts in the fields of philanthropy and corporate social responsibility.

Courtesy of Toyota Media

Monday, June 18, 2012

Untitled

Hey everyone, check out this great tip in keeping your car battery at its best!

Summer can be harder on your battery than winter, due to the impact on temperature on the chemicals. Have the battery tested, and be proactive in buying a replacement.

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Tuesday, June 12, 2012

Thank you for letting us know how we are doing!

"Valley-Hi Toyota has always treated us with respect. They have fast service, see Dave in service he is the best." -David

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Monday, June 11, 2012

Huck Finns Jubilee 2012

Happy Monday, fans! We would like to help support the local community this Father's Day weekend for the Huck Finn Days at Mojave Regional Park in Victorville.

The Father's Day weekend event becomes an escape into a new summer, where families pack the camper with kids, banjos and fishing poles. Mark Twain Live, a Route 66 Car Show and the California State Arm Wrestling Championships are just the beginning. See you all there!

 

We love customer feedback!

"Great service. Free car wash through them if you want, but I usually get the awesome detailing work they do. Their oil changes are quick and they have free transport to wherever you need to go and free pickup once you car is done." -John H.

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Thursday, June 7, 2012

NEW OWNER APPRECIATION DINNER

This event is for all new owners who bought cars between April and June of 2012. The event night is Thursday July 26th from 5:30-8:00 pm at the dealership. RSVP is required by June 30th. To RSVP call Evelyn at 760.962.9507 or email at ebrown@valleyhi.com.

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Wednesday, June 6, 2012

Here is a great Summer car care tip: Protect car paint from the sun!

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Paint does more than make your vehicle look great. It’s also the first line of defense against rusted body panels. Of course, the best way to protect the paint is to park the car in a garage. If that is not possible, park in the shade or purchase a car cover. The sun’s ultraviolet rays break down paint and cause it to fade. No one wants a dull ride!

Tuesday, June 5, 2012

Three Toyota Models Selected as Best Family Cars of 2012

TORRANCE (June 5, 2012) – Three Toyota models have been selected as among the Best Family Cars of 2012 by Parents magazine and Edmunds.com. This is their fifth annual list, which will appear online today and on newsstands June 12.

 

Toyota earned picks across three categories including Prius v in the high-mileage category; Camry in the sedan category and the Sienna minivan in the large vehicle category. Vehicles considered were evaluated on a number of criteria important to families including safety, fuel economy, and kid-friendly features, as well as ride comfort, styling and handling. 
“We’re proud to have several Toyota models on the list of best family cars for the fifth year in a row,” said Bob Carter, group vice president and general manager, Toyota Division. “Families know they can always depend on Toyota for safety, quality and durability, but they also recognize the importance of the convenience and technology features in our vehicles that help make their lives easier.”
In the high-mileage car category, the editors chose vehicles with more than 40 miles per gallon on the highway and offering safety features and modern conveniences. As a new member of the Prius family this year, the Prius v was cited for its stable ride and ample cargo space and was praised for its versatility and standard technology features including the Entune® mulitmedia system and a hands-free smart key, which unlocks the driver’s side door as you approach the door handle. 
The 2012 Camry was highlighted as a best pick in the sedan category.  Completely redesigned for 2012, the all-new seventh generation Camry was chosen for its updated styling, convenient technology including Entune, excellent fuel economy, quiet ride and ample trunk space. The Camry is America’s best-selling car, and as an IIHS Top Safety Pick for 2012 it is extremely popular with families. 
Rounding out the best family cars in the large vehicle category is the Sienna minivan, chosen for its flexible configurations to fit every type of trip, family and cargo combination. The Sienna was completely redesigned in 2010, catering to traditional family van needs while also meeting growing demands for more responsive driving characteristics, contemporary styling and onboard entertainment technology.  With state-of-the-art features and rewarding driving dynamics, the Sienna is a vehicle that families of any size will find satisfying to drive.  
The Sienna is manufactured at Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Indiana, Inc. while the Camry is built at Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Kentucky, Inc.
“Toyota has a long history of satisfying the automotive needs of American families,” said Scott Oldham, editor-in-chief, Edmunds.com. “The Sienna minivan, the redesigned Camry and the all-new Prius v hybrid are leaders in their respective segments, offering America’s families the spacious, fun, fuel-efficient and reliable transportation they need.”

 

Courtesy of Toyota Media