Thursday, April 4, 2013

Teen Vogue and Toyota Partner on Safe Driving Campaign to Help Educate and Empower Teenage Girls


New Research Shows Texting While Driving and Other Distractions Are Commonplace among Teen Girls

Teen Vogue and Toyota Launch 'Arrive in Style' Safe Driving Campaign 001


Teen Vogue and Toyota Launch 'Arrive in Style' Safe Driving Campaign 002


Teen Vogue and Toyota Present 'Arrive in Style' Teen Driving Program
Check out a behind-the-scenes tour of the shoot for "Arrive in Style," a teen driving campaign presented by Teen Vogue and Toyota. (video)
New York, NY, April 4, 2013 - In conjunction with Distracted Driving Awareness Month in April, Teen Vogue and Toyota announced today “Arrive in Style,” a safe driving campaign to raise awareness of the dangers of distracted driving among teenage girls and inspire them to make a mutual commitment with their mothers to drive safely.

While cars today are safer than ever, automobile crashes are the leading cause of death for teenagers. In 2010 seven teens between the ages of 16 and 19 died every day on average from motor vehicle injuries.[1]

“We are thrilled to partner with Toyota on this important initiative. When we saw the scary statistics around distracted driving, we knew this was a cause worth taking on,” said Jason Wagenheim, Teen Vogue Vice President and Publisher. “Teen Vogue’s influential young readers are the perfect ambassadors not only to participate in this initiative, but also to help build awareness and educate their peer groups on the importance of driver safety. Toyota, with the success of their ongoing work in this arena, is the ideal partner.”

Teen Vogue really shares our commitment to help keep teens safe, and with their reach and readership they’ve been a great partner to help amplify our longstanding efforts to empower teen girls to be safer drivers,” said Marjorie Schussel, Corporate Manager of Corporate Marketing for Toyota Motor North America (TMA).  “We also are excited to involve moms since our approach to teen safety has always included outreach to parents as well.”

The “Arrive in Style” campaign – developed in partnership by Teen Vogue, Toyota Motor North America and their ad agency of record, Dentsu America – launches this week and includes print, digital and social media elements that will run through February 2014. Kicking off with the May print edition of Teen Vogue, which hits stands this week, monthly advertorials will feature helpful tips and advice from Toyota on different safe driving topics.  The campaign will also include stories and online videos of Teen Voguereaders and their mothers about their commitment to driving safely, underscoring the special roles that mothers and daughters play in inspiring each other.

Extending into digital, the campaign will drive Teen Vogue’s audience to the “Arrive in Style” online hub,teenvogue.com/arriveinstyle. The site will feature Toyota’s Mutual Driving Agreement that mothers and daughters can e-sign and share via Facebook for a chance to win monthly prizes. In addition to signing the Agreement, teens can upload a photo on the microsite of them and their mom “air driving” for a chance to win a trip to New York City to be featured in the February 2014 issue of Teen Vogue.

Study Reveals Distracted Driving Is Pervasive Among Teen Girls

“Arrive in Style’s” unique approach of involving mothers is based, in part, on the recent study by Toyota and the University of Michigan Transportation Research Institute (UMTRI), which found a significant correlation between teen and parent driving behaviors, suggesting that parents are a major influence on a teen’s driving habits. 

“We know from our Study with the University of Michigan Transportation Research Institute that parents who engage in distracting driving behaviors more frequently have teens who engage in distracting behaviors,” said Dr. Tina Sayer, Toyota Collaborative Safety Research Center (CSRC) Principal Engineer and teen safe driving expert.  “It is critical for parents to talk to their teens about driving safety and to always be the drivers they want their teens to be.”

In conjunction with the launch of “Arrive in Style”, Toyota released new findings from the Study regarding driving behaviors of teen girls:

  • Sixty-two percent of teen girls report using a cell phone while driving (handheld and/or hands-free).
  • Nearly one in three girl teens (30 percent) reads a text or email once or more every time they drive. 
  • Almost a quarter of girl teens (23 percent) respond to a text once or more every time they drive.
  • Almost one in five (19 percent) of teen girl drivers report that they have extended conversations via text message while driving.
  • More than half (51 percent) of girls say they search for music on a portable music player, such as an iPod, while driving.
  • Twelve percent of girls report that they update or check social media, such as Facebook or Twitter, while driving.  
  • Seventy percent of teen girl drivers report they drive with two or three teen passengers and no adults in their car, whichis associated with a doubling of a driver’s risk of being killed in a crash, as compared to having no passengers.[2]

For additional findings from the Study, please visit www.toyota.com/csrc.

“Arrive In Style” is the latest initiative from Toyota that is designed to help keep teens safe on the road.  Toyota Driving Expectations (www.toyotadrivingexpectations.com) provides hands-on, real world defensive driving courses that go far beyond what is taught in standard driver education courses, while Toyota Teen Driver (www.toyotateendriver.com) offers free online teen safety resources to parents, teens, educators and schools.   The Toyota Collaborative Safety Research Center (www.toyota.com/csrc) works with leading North American Universities, hospitals, research institutions and agencies on research designed to better understand teen drivers’ risks and behaviors and identify effective recommendations to help keep them safe.

Wednesday, March 27, 2013

2014 Toyota High Lander Unveiled Today in New York



2014 Toyota Highlander 003


2014 Toyota Highlander 004


2014 Toyota Highlander 009


2014 Toyota Highlander 028


2014 Toyota Highlander 035


2013 New York Auto Show - 2014 Toyota Highlander Reveal 001
Bill Fay, Toyota Motor Sales group vice president and Toyota Division general manager, introduces the all-new third-generation 2014 Toyota Highlander at the 2013 New York International Auto Show, Wednesday, March 27, at the Javits Convention Center. Photo: Joe Polimeni
NEW YORK, March 27, 2013 - - The all-new third-generation 2014 Toyota Highlander mid-size SUV made its world debut today at the 2013 New York Auto Show.  

An all-new exterior design conveys both refinement and strength, complementing a new interior that will raise the bar in the mid-size SUV segment.  With three-row seating for up to eight, an array of standard features, a host of available in-cabin technologies, and increased cargo capacity, the new Highlander will offer a nuanced  balance of style, comfort and utility.  The total package is capped off with three powertrain choices: a fuel-efficient four-cylinder engine a powerful V6 with a new six-speed transmission that will produce excellent all-around capability, and a V6-powered Hybrid Synergy Drive powertrain for enhanced mileage and fewer emissions.

Sophisticated, Dynamic Exterior is Sleek and Strong
Sophisticated and dynamic, the new Highlander features a progressive silhouette, a lower roofline for improved aerodynamics, and sculptured side-door panels.  The exterior has grown in length by approximately three inches while width is increased one-half inch, conveying a sleek and strong appearance.

From the front, Highlander’s hood merges with a redesigned trapezoidal grille, wraparound headlamps and deeply chiseled fenders for a more aggressive appearance.

The length of the profile, from the front fenders to the rear quarter panels, boldly stands out with sculptured wheel wells at the corners, allowing for prominently protruding wheels.  The total package is capped off by a newly designed rear lift-gate with one-touch power open/close and driver selectable memory height settings, and taillights and bumper that exude style and strength.

Highlander’s body structure will include high-strength steel in the front pillars for increased rigidity.  Visibility has been improved through precise repositioning of the front A-pillars, while the size of the rear quarter glass has been increased to provide a wider view for driver and occupants.

Refinement is enhanced through improved noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) measures.  Interior noise reduction is achieved through a 30 percent expansion of silencing insulation materials in the floor areas.  Acoustic-type glass is used for the windshield to help reduce noise entering the cabin, and even the panoramic moonroof design works to help reduce wind noise, even when the moonroof is open.

Vibration is minimized through expanded coverage of the dash silencer, enhancements to body sealing, and the strategic placement of three hydraulic engine mounts.  Improvements in the exhaust layout have been made for additional noise and vibration reduction.

Premium Interior Design with Advanced Functionality
Toyota engineers raised the bar on interior design for the mid-size SUV segment by adding even more refinement and functionality to the new Highlander.   The 2014 model will offer a premium interior highlighted by increased spaciousness for up to eight people, and an array of standard comfort, convenience and technology features.

The new Highlander’s interior utilizes premium materials to offer an upscale experience, with most models featuring standard contrast seat stitching. All Highlanders will come equipped with a soft-touch instrument panel; and silver-painted, satin, and chrome-plated accents that are thoughtfully placed throughout the interior.  Wood-grain pattern trim can be found on the front dash and door trim for an added touch of elegance.  Premium fabrics, available smooth and perforated leather-trim seats, leather wrapped steering wheel and shift knob add to Highlander’s redesigned upscale interior.  The adoption of a high quality knit roof lining and available second-row sunshades add to Highlander’s refinement and comfort.

A new roll-top center console box with a dampened sliding door provides a comfortable armrest, or when fully opened is large enough to hold a large handbag.  All Highlanders will feature a newly designed in-meter-cluster Multi-Information Display.  Available ambient lighting around the front dash and doors add to the refined environment.

The second row offers bench-seating for three passengers or two captain’s seats featuring a collapsible tray with cup holders for added convenience.  Getting into the third-row is made easier with the addition of a one-step second-row sliding seat function that provides nearly three more inches of space for easier entry and exit to the third-row.  An overall interior width increase of 4.3 inches in the third-row and a standard recline function creates added comfort for up to three passengers.  Like the second-row bench, the third-row will be 40/60 split for added passenger and storage flexibility and convenience.  Rear cargo space behind the third-row has also increased by up to 34 percent for added storage.

Additional available convenience features include an Automatic High Beam System, Auto Cruise Control, Smart Key, driver’s seat memory, heated and ventilated front seats, heated second-row captain’s seats, and a heated steering wheel.

Improved Dynamic Performance, Handling, Efficiency
The new Highlander will be available in three powertrains.  A 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine is equipped with a variable intake manifold and dual Variable-Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i), which controls phasing on both the intake and exhaust camshafts to optimize torque and fuel efficiency. The 2.7-liter engine is teamed with a six-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission.

A 3.5-liter V6 is also equipped with dual VVT-i and a variable intake manifold. Acceleration and fuel efficiency are improved thanks to a new six-speed, electronically controlled automatic transmission (ECT) that offers selectable manual sequential shifting.

The Highlander Hybrid model’s Hybrid Synergy Drive system pairs the 3.5-liter V6 gasoline engine with a high-torque electric drive motor-generator for additional power and fuel efficiency.

The new Highlander will provide a more dynamic driving experience, with new technologies that include Dynamic Torque Control All-Wheel Drive (AWD), enhancements in suspension performance, and optimized electric power steering.  The spring rates and the shock absorbers have been optimally tuned to help enhance the vehicles handling characteristics.

Highlander will have a MacPherson strut front suspension, double-wishbone rear suspension, four-wheel disc brakes, 18-inch alloy wheels and available 19-inch alloys.

Highlander’s Dynamic Torque Control AWD system automatically shifts from front-wheel drive (FWD) to AWD when accelerating or when sensors detect wheel slippage.  The driver is able to view the torque-distribution settings on the meter display.

The Dynamic Torque Control AWD system continuously monitors and controls the torque transfer between the front and rear wheels via an electromagnetically controlled coupling positioned in the rear differential.

Front to rear torque distribution can vary from 100:0 to 50:50, with front-wheel drive (100:0) automatically engaged under normal driving conditions to help improve fuel consumption.

The Dynamic Torque Control AWD system uses information sent from various sensors (speed, steering angle and speed, throttle angle and yaw rate) to automatically govern the transmission of torque to the rear wheels, as required.

A sophisticated, high-speed interactive management system coordinates control of the Dynamic Torque Control AWD, Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) and Electric Power Steering (EPS) systems to enhance Highlander’s performance, handling and safety.

Advanced In-Cabin, Multimedia Connectivity
All new Highlanders come equipped with Toyota’s Entune™ multimedia system.  The Display Audio system with a 6.1-inch touchscreen with Bluetooth® and voice recognition is standard, while an eight-inch touchscreen system and Toyota’s Entune™ app suite with12 JBL speakers is also available.

The new Highlander will also offer an available Rear Seat Entertainment system with an RCA coaxial input terminal at the rear of the center console to allow external devices, such as gaming systems, to be connected.

Comprehensive Array of Safety & Convenience Features
All 2014 Highlander’s will have eight standard airbags.  Like every Toyota, Highlander will feature the standard Star Safety System™, which includes Enhanced Vehicle Stability Control, Traction Control, Electronic Brake-force Distribution, Brake Assist, an Anti-lock Braking System, and Smart Stop Technology.  All Highlander’s will also come equipped with a standard backup camera and Hill-start Assist Control.  All AWD models will have an AWD LOCK switch.

New available safety and convenience features include rear parking sonar, Blind Spot Monitor, Lane Departure Alert, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, and a Pre-collision System.   

All Highlanders are assembled at Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Indiana (TMMI) in Princeton, Ind. The all-new Highlander will reach dealer showrooms in early 2014.

2014 HIGHLANDER PRELIMINARY SPECIFICATIONS
POWERTRAIN
2.7-liter four-cylinder engine with VVT-i
Transmission: Six-speed ECT-i
Drive System:  Front-Wheel-Drive

3.5-liter V6 engine with VVT-i
Transmission: Six-speed ECT-i
Drive System: Front- and All-Wheel-Drive

Hybrid Synergy Drive with 3.5-liter V6 Engine and Electric Motor
Transmission: Electronically Controlled Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)
Drive System: All-Wheel-Drive

EXTERIOR DIMENSIONS (inches)
Overall Length: 191.1
Overall Width: 75.8
Overall Height: 68.1
Wheelbase: 109.8
Ground clearance: 8.0-inches
Wheels: 18-inch alloy wheels             
             19-inch alloy wheels (Limited)
Tire Size: 18-inch:  245/60R18 (LE and XLE)
               19-inch:  245/55R19 (Limited)

Towing Capacity: 5,000 lbs. (V6 only)

Seating Capacity: 7 or 8

Sunday, March 10, 2013

Congratulations to Matt Kenseth and the #20 Toyota for Winning the Kobalt Tools 400


Birthday boy Matt Kenseth held off Kasey Kahne to win Sunday's Kobalt Tools 400

LAS VEGAS — Matt Kenseth knows how to celebrate a birthday with style.
Sunday was a landmark day for the driver, who turned 41.
He took the lead under caution with a fuel-only pit stop and staved off a challenge by Kasey Kahne to win the Kobalt Tools 400 at Las Vegas Motor Speedway.
It was the first Sprint Cup victory in a Joe Gibbs Racing Toyota for the 2003 champion, who switched teams this season after 15 years with Roush Fenway Racing. The Cambridge, Wis., native has notched 25 victories in NASCAR's premier series.
RESULTS: Kobalt Tools 400
"Man, this is awesome," Kenseth said. "I just knew it. I feel really good about this group, and it's just the beginning.
"I was real nervous all day. (Kahne) had the best car. I was getting too tight and killing the right front, but I just had to stay in front of him."
Kenseth also became the third Sprint Cup driver to win a points race on their birthdays.
Cale Yarborough won twice on his March 27 birthday (in 1977 at North Wilkesboro Speedway and 1993 at Atlanta Motor Speedway). Kyle Busch won at Richmond International Raceway on May 2, 2009, his 24th birthday.
"I was kind of bummed about being 29," Kenseth joked, "but turing 29 feels pretty good."

Thursday, March 7, 2013

2013 FR-S Scion-Best Sports Car for the Money

The 2013 FR-S beat out its competition to earn the Best Sports Car for the Money from respected publication U.S. News & World Report. The annual award recognizes value, quality and critical acclaim across 21 vehicle categories.

To evaluate the FR-S, U.S. News & World Report judges looked at the sports coupe’s safety record, reliability and opinion from industry experts. Additionally, the expected five-year total cost of ownership and average vehicle price at the time of publication contributed to overall scores. The FR-S costs $25,255 MSRP with a six-speed manual transmission or $26,355 MSRP with a six-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters and Dynamic Rev Management technology.

“The Best Sports Car for the Money award is a testament to the incredibly fun and accessible sports car experience offered by the Scion FR-S,” said Scion Vice President Doug Murtha. “We are proud the FR-S continues to impress industry enthusiasts and drivers, while also representing the passion behind the Scion brand.”

The FR-S comes standard with 17-inch alloy wheels, a limited-slip differential and 2.0-liter flat boxer engine that produces 200 horsepower and 151 pound-feet of torque. Its distinctive lightweight design and impressive handling have built a following since its introduction last year.

Also winning awards were the Toyota Tacoma and Toyota Tundra, winning “Best Compact Truck for the Money” and “Best Full Size Truck for the Money” awards, respectively. It is the second year of top honors in a row for the Tacoma.

Toyota Prius the Most popular New Car in California Based upon New Vehicle Registrations

Toyota’s Prius-badged vehicles proved to be the most popular new vehicles with California drivers during the 2012 calendar year. According to R.L Polk, the Prius family cars (Prius Liftback, Prius v, Prius Plug-in, and Prius c) accounted for 61,893 vehicles registered in California, making Prius the No. 1 vehicle badge sold in the state. This continues the trend shown by the state’s consumers who are adopting gasoline-electric hybrid technology and putting more of these vehicles on the road.

“Consumers are drawn to the Prius vehicles because of the brand’s focus on efficiency,” said Bill Fay, group vice president and general manager of Toyota Motor Sales, Inc. “All four distinct Prius models offer outstanding fuel economy.”

Recently, editors of Cleanmpg.com tested the Ford C-MAX and the Prius v on a 365-mile-highway route at a steady cruise-control moderated speed. In this evaluation, the Prius v averaged 40.8 mpg and actually bested its EPA highway rating by 1.9 percent. On the same roads and using the same testing criteria, Cleanmpg.com editors stated that the Ford C-MAX averaged 35.5 mpg, which is short of its stated EPA rating by 24.4 percent.

Monday, March 4, 2013

Toyota providing more assistance for Superstorm Sandy recovery efforts



Toyota is providing 20 vehicles to organizations in the Northeast to help victims of Hurricane Sandy, which slammed into the East Coast in November.
The automaker is loaning 19 vehicles to the American Red Cross for one full year and giving a new 4Runner SUV to Saint Paul’s United Methodist Church in Bay Head, N.J., to aid in ongoing transportation and cleanup efforts.
These contributions are in addition to a $1 million donation made by Toyota last year to support Sandy relief efforts. At that time, the company donated five vehicles in support of recovery efforts.
“We understand the ongoing need for Hurricane Sandy relief ... four months after the disaster,” says Steve Haag, assistant general manager for Toyota’s New York region. “We want to honor those making an impact rebuilding their community after the devastation of Sandy.”
Nancy Orlando, regional CEO of the American Red Cross South Jersey Region, says the contributions from Toyota are greatly appreciated.
“American Red Cross disaster recovery efforts are ongoing across multiple states affected by Superstorm Sandy, including our efforts here in counties from the northern edge to the southern tip of New Jersey. We’re thrilled to have this fleet of Toyota vehicles, a generous donation that will enable the Red Cross to move manpower and resources more efficiently throughout affected regions.”



Wednesday, February 20, 2013

Toyota and Wyland Foundation to Launch Second Annual National Water Conservation Challenge

Toyota is continuing its partnership with Wyland Foundation to promote resource conservation and the importance of sustainability leading up to and throughout Earth Month in April.

  Founded by renowned marine artist Wyland, the Wyland Foundation brings attention to the importance of healthy oceans and waterways, aligning with Toyota’s commitment to global sustainability and environmental stewardship. The Wyland Foundation, in association with Toyota, will hold The National Mayor’s Challenge for Water Conservation throughout April and ask U.S. residents to sign an online pledge at www.mywaterpledge.comto conserve water and resources. Cities with the highest percentage of residents who make thecommitment are entered to win hundreds of environmentally friendly prizes, including a Toyota Prius c, water-saving fixtures and gift certificates. The challenge is also supported by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, National League of Cities, CH2M Hill's WaterMatch, Rain Bird Corporation, Lowe's Home Improvement stores and the U.S. Forest Service.

  New to the challenge this year is the Wyland Clean Water Mobile Learning Experience, a 1,000-square foot interactive exhibit which demonstrates the ways water shapes human lives. The traveling exhibit features interactive models – from an onboard running river to a 40-person theater with computer-controlled special effects – to explore the nation's complex relationship with its water resources.  Kicking off at the beginning of March, the tour will travel across the U.S., visiting schools and community events.

  "Toyota recognizes that global sustainability depends on partnerships with organizations like the Wyland Foundation to help share information in innovative ways,” said Michael Rouse, vice president of diversity, philanthropy and community affairs for Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A.  "We hope both the national pledge and the interactive exhibits build awareness around the value of environmental stewardship and the impact individuals can make.”

  For the first time, mayors and elected officials who participate in the National Mayor’s Challenge for Water Conservation can earn additional prizes for their residents if their cities win. A second prize drawing for a $1,000 Lowe’s shopping spree will be held among all participants, regardless if a city is among the six winning cities. Last year, residents who participated in the challenge pledged to reduce their water use by 4.7 billion gallons.

  “The additional support from Toyota and the cross-country educational tour will allow us to share the value of water conservation with even more residents this year,” said artist Wyland. “There is no city that managing water resources won’t touch in the future. These personal commitments and educational efforts are one piece of an important effort to save our waterways.”

Courtesy of Toyota

Friday, February 15, 2013

Toyota Unveils 2014 Redesigned Tundra Full-Size Pickup Truck at 2013 Chicago Auto Show

Tundra
Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc., unveiled the redesigned 2014 Tundra full-size pickup truck at a press conference at the 2013 Chicago Auto Show. 

  Tundra has been a quality leader with Toyota’s DNA of quality, dependability and reliability.  The industry has recognized Tundra with a myriad of awards over the last 12 years, including winning the J.D. Power Vehicle Dependability Study for seven years running in the Full-Size Pick Up segment. Not resting on its laurels, the 2014 Tundra will be redesigned, inside and out, representing the first major change since the launch of the current generation for the 2007 model year. 

  The redesigned Tundra continues to be a truck with true American roots that was once again engineered by Toyota Technical Center in Ann Arbor, Mich., and its new look designed by Calty Design Research centers in Newport Beach, Calif., and Ann Arbor.  Finally, Tundra continues to be assembled exclusively at Toyota Motor Manufacturing, in San Antonio, Texas.

  “Toyota prides itself on listening to its customers and the development of the 2014 American-born Tundra is a perfect example,” said Bill Fay, group vice president and general manager, Toyota Division.  “Tundra’s new exterior design and all-new interior were inspired by customer feedback requesting a more chiseled exterior and refined interior with improved driver ergonomics, and easy-to-use technology, giving customers more of what they want instead, in addition to what they need.”

  The 2014 Tundra will have a grade strategy consisting of the hard-working SR, volume-leading SR5, the well-appointed Limited, and two premium grades: “Platinum” and the all-new “1794 Edition.” The new 1794 Edition is a tribute to the ranch, founded in the year 1794, on which the Tundra plant is located in San Antonio.  Tundra is offered in three cab styles, two-door Regular Cab, four-door Double Cab and four-door CrewMax, all available in 4x2 and 4x4.     

  Significantly New, Unique Exterior Designs; Distinct Look for Each Grade
Inside and out, each grade embodies a specific theme through distinct designs that go beyond just badging.   

  The Calty design team set out to create a bold and powerful exterior to embody Tundra’s performance capability.  The all-new front design integrates the hood and grille for a chiseled and modern industrial image.  Designers increased the size of the front fascia and tightened up the surfaces and character lines to punctuate Tundra’s pulling power and wide stance.  The chrome grille has a taller, bolder look visually connecting the upper intake to the lower bumper. The front lower bumpers are now a three-piece design, allowing for grade differentiation and less expensive replacement parts.  In addition, the fenders and wheel wells have been squared-off for a wide and sturdy stance. 

  An all-new bed design helps carry the chiseled character lines all the way down the profile, leading to a rugged new bed and tail gate, with an integrated spoiler and “TUNDRA” stamped into the sheet metal, creating a one-piece forged look. The integrated spoiler in the deck helps with fuel efficiency, while the tail lamps express a tool-like quality to match the appearance of the body.  Like the front bumper, the rear bumper changes from one piece to three, for lower replacement costs.

  An All-new Spacious Interior; Each Grade With a Unique Identity
Calty’s design team worked closely with the product planners and Tundra engineers to develop an all-new bold interior focusing on styling differentiation between grades and improving the availability of features most important to truck buyers. The all-new interior variations are thematic and cater to a specific customer with a specific budget.  Ergonomic improvements include easier driver access to controls as the reach to the audio and HVAC controls was reduced by 2.6 inches. Large knobs have been retained so they can be operated with or without work gloves.  Overall passenger comfort was improved with an all-new front and rear (CrewMax) seat design and improved front seat ventilation. In addition, front seats have additional travel, and CrewMax rear seats can now be folded up for additional cargo carrying capability while maintaining a comfortable seating back angle. 

  The interior has a rugged, interlocked construction with an all-new instrument panel.  The meters feature 3-D metallic rings and individual gauges grouped in a clear, easy-to-see design with a center-mounted multi-information display screen.  The console design holds multiple storage areas for personal items and electronics plus additional padded surfaces and accent stitching in premium grades.  Both Double Cab and CrewMax will be available with a bench or bucket seats for the front row.

  The interior of the SR5 features a “professional gear” theme, with unique driver and passenger zones, metallic accents and bold contrasting fabric.  Most importantly, the all-new design uses premium surface treatments to enhance interior quality and durability.

  The Limited grade has an “active premium” image with leather seating surfaces matching soft-touch stitched door and console surfaces, and wood-style interior trims.  The Limited will be available with Black, Sand Beige and Graphite leather-trimmed interiors and will have standard auto HVAC controls.

  The Platinum grade has been completely redesigned for the next generation of personal use truckers.  It features perforated black leather-trimmed seats with double-stitched diamond plate leather, door and instrument panel inserts, and chrome seat and console accent badging for an upscale yet urban feel.  In addition, Platinum uses premium leather never before used on a Toyota truck and comes with many standard amenities, including a 12-speaker JBL audio system with Entune™, heated and ventilated front seats, navigation and Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross Traffic Alert.

  The 1794 Edition reflects a western lifestyle theme and includes exclusive premium saddle brown leather seating with embossed leather and ultra-suede accents.  Matching soft-touch materials also accents the shift console, the front and rear door trim, and the instrument panel.  Like the Platinum, the 1794 Edition includes an array of standard features that includes heated and ventilated front seats, JBL audio and Entune, navigation and Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross Traffic Alert.

  Three Engine Options Remain Among Segment’s Most Capable
Several enhancements have been implemented on the 2014 Tundra to improve performance.  Shock-absorber valving has been re-tuned to improve Tundra ride quality over harsh surfaces.

  Steering feel and straight line stability has been improved due to steering system improvements.  These improvements reduce the inputs from road variations and imperfections, resulting in improved straight line stability and less driver fatigue.

  Patented aerodynamic stabilizer fins are added to the outside surface of the rear tail lamp lens, and the outside mirror bases.  These patented “Aero-Fins” reduce the air turbulence along the sides of the vehicle resulting in improved straight-line stability during normal driving conditions and while towing.

Interior cabin noise is reduced from an improved design of engine compartment NVH treatments and innovative engineering to reduce sound transmission from the engine compartment to the vehicle cabin.

Tundra continues to offer three proven powertrains.  A 4.0-liter Dual Overhead Cam (DOHC) V6 is standard on Tundra Regular and Double Cab models and produces 270 horsepower and 278 lb.-ft. peak torque.  It is paired with a five-speed automatic transmission with uphill/downhill shift logic.

  The available 4.6-liter DOHC i-Force V8 offers 310 horsepower and 327 lb.-ft. of peak torque, and the 5.7-liter DOHC i-Force V8 produces 381 horsepower and 401 lb.-ft. of peak torque, in both gasoline and “Flex Fuel” variants.  Both V8’s come standard with a six-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission.  All Tundra engines feature an aluminum cylinder block and DOHC heads, along with Dual Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i) for a broad torque curve and optimized efficiency.

  The SR and SR5 grades will ride on 18-inch styled steel wheels, while the Limited, Platinum and 1794 Edition will ride on all-new 20-inch alloy wheels specific to each grade. 

  Tundra remains the only full-size pickup in the segment to adhere to the SAE J2807 towing standard.  When equipped with a tow package, Tundra has a maximum tow capacity of 10,400 pounds (4x2 Regular Cab).

  All 2014 Tundras Feature a Number of Segment Firsts
Tundras will feature a number of segment firsts, including a new Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross Traffic Alert, a standard back-up camera (viewed from the audio display screen), and standard Bluetooth.  Additional standard features include a 3.5-inch multi-information display in the gauge cluster.

  The Limited grade adds eight-way power driver seat, standard chrome door handles and outer mirrors, 20-inch alloy wheels and a deck rail system.

  The Platinum and 1794 Edition come standard with a 10-way power driver’s seat with memory and a four-way power passenger’s seat, both with heat and ventilation, power moonroof (CrewMax only), parking sonar, and Display Audio with Navigation, Entune and JBL.

  Toyota’s STAR Safety; Segment First Blind Spot Monitor with Cross Traffic Alert
The 2014 Tundra will be the first in its segment to be equipped with a standard backup camera on all grades, and the first truck in its segment to offer a Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross Traffic Alert (Platinum and 1794 Edition).

  All Tundra models will also feature the standard Toyota Star Safety System™ that includes Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Traction Control (TRAC), an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA), and Smart Stop (SST) brake override technology. 

  Smart Stop Technology is designed to automatically reduce engine power when both brake and accelerator pedals are pressed at the same time under certain conditions, helping the driver bring the vehicle to a stop.

  Tundra will be equipped with eight standard airbags including front seat-mounted side airbags, and front and rear Roll-sensing Side Curtain Airbags (RSCA) in all models, driver and front outboard passenger airbags with an Advanced Airbag System, and the segments only driver and front outboard passenger knee airbags.

  Additional safety features include manual headlamp leveling and standard LED Daytime Running Lights (Platinum and 1794 Edition).

  The redesigned 2014 Tundra will reach Toyota dealers in September.

 
2014 TUNDRA PRELIMINARY SPECIFICATIONS

  POWERTRAINS
4.0 Liter V6
270 H.P. @ 5600 RPM
278 lb-ft Torque @4400 RPM
5-Speed Automatic Transmission

  4.6 Liter V8
310 H.P. @ 5600 RPM
327 lb-ft Torque @3400 RPM
6-Speed Automatic Transmission.

  5.7 Liter V8
381 H.P.@ 5600 RPM
401 lb-ft Torque @ 3400 RPM
6-Speed Automatic Transmission

  DIMENSIONS (inches)

  Overall length:                  228.7 (Std Bed)

  Overall width:                   79.9

  Overall height:                  76.2

  Wheelbase:                      145.7 (Long Bed)

   
TRUCK BED DIMENSIONS (inches)

  Bed length                         78.7 (Std Bed)

  Bed width
(between wheel wells):     50.0

  Bed width
(wall-to-wall):                    65.0

  Bed depth:                         22.2

Courtesy of Toyota

Wednesday, February 6, 2013

2013 Chicago Auto Show

Cas

Dates

  • Public Show:  Saturday, February 9 through Monday, February 18
  • First Look for Charity:  Friday, February 8, 7:00 to 11:00 p.m.
  • Media Preview:  Thursday, February 7 through Friday, February 8. 

Location - McCormick Place, 2301 S. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago, Illinois, 60616.

Toyota will debut its redesigned 2014 Tundra at the Chicago Auto Show at 10 a.m. EST on Thursday, Feb. 7.

The new Tundra pickup will take its place on the company's 45,000-square-foot stand, which will be a mix of new products and concept vehicles. The all-new 2013 Toyota RAV4 will be on display, as well as the new Avalon.

The Toyota Corolla Furia Concept will also make an appearance. We saw the concept at the Detroit Auto Show earlier this month. Toyota says the aggressive looking concept previews a redesigned Corolla. Guests can play with the Toyota Fun-Vii concept, which allows visitors to change the concept's exterior color and pattern using their hands.

Check back with us for updates during the show!

Thursday, January 31, 2013

Toyota Prius was California's best-selling car in 2012

When almost a quarter-million Americans go out and buy one of the country's most fuel-efficient vehicles, a bunch of them are bound to be from California, right? The answer is yes, they are. USA Today reports that Golden State residents registered 60,688 Toyota Prius hybrids last year, making it the best-selling model in the state.

The newspaper, citing the California New Cars Dealers Association, added that the Prius outsold the No. 2 Honda Civic by about 3,500 units, or about the same number of Prius models that can be found roaming the streets of Silver Lake on a given day. All this isn't a total surprise, since the Prius led all model sales through the first three quarters of 2012.

Furthermore, Toyota as a whole accounted for more than one in five new California vehicles sold last year, while Honda accounted for about one in eight. Throughout the whole country, Toyota moved almost 237,000 Prius variants, including the standard Liftback, Prius Plug-In, C compact and V wagon versions. Do the math and it turns out Californians accounted for more than a quarter of all the Prius hybrids sold nationwide last year. Cowabunga.

Courtesy of Auto Blog Green

We have another great review from another happy customer! Thank you for your kind words.

"We are always pleased with the friendly people at Victor Valley Toyota Scion.They are always there to see if you need anything besides what you came for and do the work in a very timely manner. We love our Toyota Sienna and look forward to coming in for service soon again, not be cause of problems, just the routine stuff. Thank you." -Grumpy Old Man

Wednesday, January 23, 2013

Toyota and Cincinnati Children’s to Donate 10,000 Child Car Seats to Families In Need as Part of Child Passenger Safety Education Campaign

Did you know that three out of every four child car seats in the United States are not used or installed correctly? Or that almost 50 percent of children who are fatally injured in motor vehicle crashes were unrestrained? To address this alarming public health issue and encourage greater safety for child passengers, Toyota and Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center have teamed up to launch a national, online education campaign on Causes.com.  

The campaign builds on the success of Toyota’s and Cincinnati Children’s groundbreaking Buckle Up for Life child safety program in communities.

In recognition of everyone who participates in the campaign, Toyota will donate 10,000 child car seats to families in need.

“While cars and trucks today are safer than they’ve ever been, motor vehicle crashes are still the leading cause of death in the United States for children between the ages of one and 12,” said Patricia Salas Pineda, group vice president of National Philanthropy and the Toyota USA Foundation at Toyota Motor North America.  “Tragically, so many of these deaths and injuries could be avoided through the proper use of child car seats and seat belts.  We are pleased to be working with the visionary medical experts at Cincinnati Children’s to help empower parents and caregivers to make an even bigger difference in protecting young passengers, while also bringing thousands of new child car seats to families in need.”

“The goal of our partnership with Toyota has been to help keep as many children safe as possible and to educate families on the importance of properly buckling children up during every ride,” said Dr. Victor Garcia, founding director of Trauma Services at Cincinnati Children’s, professor of pediatric surgery and a co-founder of Buckle Up for Life.  “The campaign on Causes.com expands our ability to fulfill this vital mission and to reach even more people across America with information that saves lives.”


Courtesy of Toyota

Monday, January 21, 2013

Happy MLK Day!







Did you know... Stevie Wonder’s “Happy Birthday,” a straightforward tribute released in 1981, was instrumental in helping to establish the national holiday commemorating King’s birth?

Happy Martin Luther King Day!

Wednesday, January 9, 2013

Toyota Prius Named Best New Car Value

Toyota Prius has been named by Consumer Reports as the best overall value for the automotive dollar in its annual Best New-Car Value analysis.

The Prius has the right combination of performance, reliability and low estimated ownership costs of $.49 cents per mile — less than half that of the average car, to unseat the perennial pack leader Honda Fit. The Fit as has held the best new-car value title for the past four years.

In creating its annual Best and Worst New-Car-Value list, Consumer Reports mines its performance, reliability, and owner-cost data to calculate a value score for some 200 different vehicles ranging from small cars like the Prius to luxury sedans such as the BMW 750Li.

Toyota and Lexus models placed at the top of six of the 10 categories that Consumer Reports analyzed. The automaker’s hybrid cars, in particular, represent excellent values overall, with great fuel economy and reliability along with low depreciation working in their favor. Toyota hybrid models topped three of the categories and placed second, behind the non-hybrid version of the same model, in an additional category.

The scores were calculated based on the five-year owner cost for each vehicle, along with Consumer Reports road-test score and the organization’s own predicted-reliability. In short, the better a car performs in Consumer Reports road tests and reliability ratings, and the less it costs to own over time, the better its value. The five-year owner cost estimates factor in depreciation, fuel, insurance premiums, interest on financing, maintenance and repairs, and sales tax. Depreciation is by far the largest owner-cost factor.

Courtesy of CBS Detroit