The world's most popular hybrid took home Decisive Magazine's Urban Green Vehicle of the Year award. This Prius is like none other; it can run on strictly electricity for 15 miles. Charging the car at a max of three hours using a standard 120 volt outlet provides a driving range equivalent of 87 miles per gallon. The expected overall EPA rating for the Prius will be 49 mpg. Toyota has sold over 1 million Priuses in the U.S. since it first debuted 10 years ago.

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Toyota Motor Corporation (TMC) signed a memorandum of understanding today with Intel Corporation to begin joint research on next-generation in-vehicle multimedia systems* that would replace current navigation systems.

The joint research with Intel, experienced in information communication technologies, will target appropriate methods of providing information to drivers through in-vehicle systems, as well as information technologies that would enable seamless communication between on-board information systems and nearby information systems.

The amount of information exchanged between cars and drivers is expected to increase due to expanding demand for traffic information, destination searches, radar cruise control and other driving support functions. In response, Toyota and Intel will conduct research on vehicle-driver interfaces that do not interfere with driving.

With Wi-Fi and other various data transmission methods constantly improving, Toyota and Intel will research communication technologies to improve connectivity between cars and widely used information equipment, such as smartphones.

Furthermore, the two companies will research connectivity technologies and effective ways to seamlessly integrate cars with other aspects of people’s lives, including homes.

*In-vehicle systems that provide the user with a multitude of information. Beginning with in-vehicle radio and evolving to current-generation navigation systems, integration with smartphones, home appliances and other energy management systems is expected to be the next stage of evolution for the technology

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Toyota and Discovery Education have announced a contest to encourage teenagers to drive safely. The contest has students (grades 9-12) create 2-minute videos and post them to the Toyota Teen Driver Facebook page to be voted on in February. The top prize is $20,000 with the following nine finalists receiving $1,500 each. The program will try to get teens to understand the dangers of the road, and how they can make driving a safer experience for all.

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The 2011 SEMA Show will be the scene for the debut of the Oakley Surf Tacoma. From the coast of Baja to the cold water of Santa Cruz, Calif., the Oakley Surf Tacoma has the ability to live at the beach and go anywhere in search of mega waves. Australian surfing pro Tom Whitaker will be on hand to talk about the Oakley Surf Tacoma at a press conference in the Toyota exhibit at the SEMA Show on Nov. 1at 10 a.m. Pacific Time.

Built using a rugged Toyota Tacoma 4x4 pickup equipped with a V6 engine and TRD supercharger that generates 304 horsepower, the truck was customized by Smithbuilt to be a Surfing Big Wave Assault Machine.  Additional performance modifications include a Flowmaster stainless steel exhaust, an Icon stage 3 lift kit, Billet top A arms, new leaf springs for added height, a new front coilover system, and Walker Evans 17 x 8 bead lock wheels with a flat black finish mounted to BF Goodrich 285/75-17 all-terrain tires.
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Toyota will debut the most rugged Tacoma yet. The unveiling will take place in Las Vegas at the annual Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA). The limited edition pickup is called the Tacoma TRD|X Baja Series. “The limited-edition TRD T|X Baja Series adds another chapter to Toyota’s truck legacy by offering a new level of capability for off-road enthusiasts,” said Bob Carter, VP and GM of Toyota Division.

Some of the features on the new Baja include: Unique Baja Series graphics, Hill-Start Assist and Downhill Assist Control technologies, an upgraded suspension featuring 60-mm Bilstein race shocks with TRD coil springs at the front, and 50-mm piston-style Bilstein shocks at the rear

Find out more at the dealership today!

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Leaked images of the smallest car in the Prius lineup have emerged. The Prius has always been a mid-level vehicle, so it's refreshing to see the brand expand to the entry-level market. The smallest Prius is a hatchback and has a sleek appearance that is bound to wow consumers. Check out some images of the Prius C!

Click here to view the entire article, plus more images.

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Timing Belt Special.
Toyota recommends that your car's pensioners, idlers, belts and seals be inspected and or repaired at 60,000 miles.

• Replace timing belt
• Inspect crankshaft seal
• Reset engine timing
• Inspect pulleys & tensioner
• Reset engine idle speed
• Inspect water pump
• Inspect camshaft seal

4 CYL
$149.95 + tax       

6 CYL
$199.95 + tax

V-8's
$349.95 + tax

One per customer. May not be used in conjunction with any other specials. may not be used on previous charges. Toyota vehicles only. Good at Toyota Place only. Expires 11-30-11.

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The 2012 models of the popular Toyota RAV4 and 4Runner won't be getting major overhauls, but will have updated audio systems. Both vehicles will offer Toyota’s new display audio setup, which includes a navigation system, complimentary 90-day subscription to XM Satellite Radio, HD Radio with iTunes tagging, text-to-voice functionality and the Entune suite of connectivity services.  

Stop texting while driving, tune into iHeartradio or Pandora and enjoy your ride to work courtesy of Toyota's newest audio installation.  Check out Toyota Place today for more information.

Click here to view the entire story.

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The 2012 Toyota Sienna is no ordinary mini van. The Sienna has added a number of comfortable and convenient features to go along with its unique exterior styling. In 2011, Toyota made improvements to the popular van. It remains the only van to offer an all-wheel-drive option.

Time to decide which one is better for your family: the 265-horsepower V6 or the I-4 that produces 187-horsepower?

Click here to read the entire article on the Toyota Sienna.

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Known as the one of the best SUVs for towing, the 2012 Toyota Sequoia has added new safety features geared at protecting drivers and their cargo.

New to the Sequoia is a blind spot monitoring system and Trailer Sway Control, which is meant to counteract handling forces acting on the vehicle in an effort to minimize the impact of trailer sway. The V8 powered Sequoia now has a 7,400-lb. towing capacity along with some aesthetic additions like a moonroof, retraceable sunshades, and an Auto-dimming electrochromic rear-view mirror among others.

Click here to view the entire story on the New Sequoia.

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If it isn't broken, don't fix it! That's Toyota's thinking behind the announcement that the 2012 Toyota Avalon will arrive with no changes from the 2011 model.

The Avalon rivals any luxury sedan with the features in the Limited class. Options for a JBL Synthesis sound system, satellite navigation, and rain-sensing windshield wipers are accompanied by the most luxurious seats you will find across the automobile spectrum; the front seats are heated/cooled and have an eight-way front passenger's seat with lumbar support.

Not only does the Avalon pack in a 3.5-liter V6 that produces 268 horsepower, it also is a certified Ultra Low Emission Vehicle that averages 29 mpg highway.

This is a calling to all those interested in luxury, paying less for gas, and protecting the environment. So come on down and ask us about the Avalon!

Click here to view the whole story on the Toyota Avalon.

Check out Toyota Place today for more information.
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If it isn't broken, don't fix it! That's Toyota's thinking behind the announcement that the 2012 Toyota Avalon will arrive with no changes from the 2011 model.

The Avalon rivals any luxury sedan with the features in the Limited class. Options for a JBL Synthesis sound system, satellite navigation, and rain-sensing windshield wipers are accompanied by the most luxurious seats you will find across the automobile spectrum; the front seats are heated/cooled and have an eight-way front passenger's seat with lumbar support.

Not only does the Avalon pack in a 3.5-liter V6 that produces 268 horsepower, it also is a certified Ultra Low Emission Vehicle that averages 29 mpg highway.

This is a calling to all those interested in luxury, paying less for gas, and protecting the environment. So come on down and ask us about the Avalon!

Click here to view the whole story on the Toyota Avalon.

Check out Toyota Place today for more information.
• Call toll-free: 1-888-352-5533
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What better place to introduce the Toyota Tacoma TRD than at the 2011 Texas State Fair? Hardcore off-road enthusiasts, your truck has arrived. Building off of its Baja racing heritage, the Tacoma features plenty of heavy duty gear like an electronically-controlled locking differential, TRD off-road package with Bilstein race shocks and an increased ride height of two inches, BF Goodrich T/A KO tires and bead-lock style wheels. “The limited edition TRD T|X Baja Series adds another chapter to Toyota’s truck legacy by offering a new level of capability for off-road enthusiasts,” said Bob Carter, group vice president and general manager, Toyota Division.  

Click here to view the entire story on the Toyota Tacoma TRD TX Baja series.

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Futuristic or modern marvel? The 2012 Toyota Prius v can fit any array of admirable labels. How does it compare to its utmost incredible reviews?

Well, for starters, the Prius v has a range of 500 miles utilizing its hybrid engine to net 44 mpg city and 40 mpg highway. This isn't your '80s station wagon; the v stands for versatility, and that versatility shows throughout the vehicle. There's similar cargo volume as some SUVs, namely the Honda CR-V, Ford Escape, and Chevrolet Equinox.  

When you're looking for a new Prius, just look to Tron; build on the old and move to a new extremely high-tech sequel with the Prius v.

Click here to view the entire article on the 2012 Prius v.


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While Toyota’s lineup continues to offer an assortment of crossovers and SUVs, the Venza still delivers a unique combination of sportiness and versatility. For 2012, the Venza will also get a new three-model grade line to give customers even more to choose from.

Buyers will be able to get the 2012 Toyota Venza in either LE, XLE, or Limited grades. The LE and XLE models are available with all powertrain combinations including four-cylinder, V6, front-wheel drive (FWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD). The range-topping  Venza Limited comes with the V6 engine only, but offers the choice of front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive configurations.

What isn’t changing is the Venza’s fresh, modern design, which was the creation of Toyota’s Calty Design studios in Newport Beach, Calif., mad Ann Arbor, Mich. With the same footprint as a midsize sedan, it offers loads of interior space for passengers, while still offering plenty of maneuverability. Additionally, buyers will also appreciate the Venza’s SUV attributes, such as cargo space, towing capability and available all-wheel drive traction.

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The Prius brand is expanding and adding new models to the lineup. Starting next year, the extended Prius V wagon, the Plug-in Prius and the smaller bargain-priced Prius C will roll out to our lot giving customers a choice between body styles.

“Offering the popular car in something more than a well-priced hatchback seems like a no-brainer win-win for consumers and Toyota,” de la Cuesta said.

Click here to view the entire article about the Prius lineup.

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2012 Toyota Camry pricing analysis by The Truth About Cars. If you're considering a new family sedan, you may want to read this article which compares pricing on all the different 2012 Camry models.

Click here to view the entire pricing analysis article.

At the annual Green Drive Expo, Toyota showcased one of the newest additions to the Prius hybrid family, the Prius plug-in. This new model will give customers more options when it comes to fuel-efficient transportation.

The Prius plug-in will join the popular third-generation Prius Liftback and the new Prius v. What sets the plug-in model apart will be its incredible fuel economy, a manufacturer-estimated 87 MPGe (miles per gallon equivalent) in combined driving and 49 MPG in hybrid mode.

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Wearing the same sophisticated and 100 percent new sheet metal as the gas-only model, the 2012 Toyota Camry Hybrid sets a fresh benchmark for fuel-economy among mid-size hybrid sedans, delivering an EPA estimated 43 mpg city/39 mpg highway/41 mpg. That’s an improvement of more than 30 percent as compared to the 2011 model—and it now tops the performance of the Ford Fusion Hybrid, Hyundai Sonata Hybrid and Kia Optima Hybrid as well.

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Toyota has once again decided to show the sumptuous FT-86 II Concept, this time at the Frankfurt Motor Show. Although the sports car can been shown at five different shows, it remains technically a concept.

According to Toyota, the car on display in Frankfurt is “lighter, faster and sportier” than the concept cars that came before it, but aside from the new orange paint job, the only noticeable difference are a pair of red Brembo brake calipers behind those alloy wheels.

Although Toyota enthusiasts would undoubtedly like to see a production version they can actually drive, the FT-86 II Concept is nevertheless a stunning vehicle. While we wait patiently for Toyota to show a production model, check out the teaser video the automaker put together.

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Offering a strong combination of fun and functionality, the 2012 Toyota Yaris lineup is slated to debut this fall with bold new styling, outstanding safety features and improved fuel economy of up to 38 mpg highway—all at an MSRP that starts at just $14,115.

But the Yaris is packed with features despite that high-value price, including more than $1,000 worth of additional content that wasn’t on the 2011 base model. All grades of the 2012 Yaris boast standard equipment like electric power steering, power-assisted front disc brakes, power door locks, air conditioning, halogen headlamps, an AM/FM/CD/USB sound system and nine airbags. Also standard: Significantly more cargo room. Thanks to its new, slightly larger exterior proportions, the interior of the 2012 Yaris delivers 64 percent more cargo volume in its three-door configuration and 68 percent more as a five-door.

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The 2012 Toyota Tacoma may be slightly more expensive than the 2011 model, but it’s loaded with more content than the outgoing model.

The refreshed Tacoma will carry a base price of $16,875, which puts it just $510 higher than the 2011 Tacoma. For that sum, buyers can get a Regular Cab 4×2 equipped with a 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine and five-speed manual transmission.

A V6-powered Tacoma will set buyers back as little as $22,760 with the five-speed automatic transmission. For those that demand four-wheel drive, a four cylinder (Regular Cab, five-speed manual) model will cost $20,725.

For 2012, the Tacoma will top out at $27,835, which gets you the V6-powered Long Bed Double Cab with a five-speed automatic transmission.

The 2012 Toyota Tacoma goes on sale at Toyota Place this month.

Check out Toyota Place today for more information.
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The Toyota Tacoma, still the best-selling compact pickup truck in the U.S. market by a wide margin, offers a restyled exterior look and a redesigned, upgraded interior in all models for 2012. New changes add comfort, usability and audio/infotainment performance.

Toyota sold more than 106,000 Tacoma models for 2010, outselling its nearest competitor by nearly two-to-one. For 2012, Tacoma shows a fresh face with a redesigned hood, grille, headlamps and front bumper, among other changes. Inside, customers will find a new center-instrument panel design with a revised gauge cluster, along with a new steering wheel. A redesigned center stack adds new air conditioner/heater controls and power point locations.

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Even as it worked to recover from this spring’s disasters in Japan, Toyota continued its campaign to ready a new wave of high-efficiency electrified vehicles for the marketplace—and those efforts appear to have paid off. Akio Toyoda, president of the Toyota Motor Corporation, recently visited this country to speak at this year’s national Toyota dealer meeting, and he told attendees that the launches of the Prius c, Prius plug-in hybrid, RAV4 electric vehicle and Scion iQ electric vehicle all remain on schedule, with no delays expected.

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When the all-new Toyota Prius v debuts this fall, it will mark a significant efficiency breakthrough for the industry, and not just because it will boast more cargo room than a Chevy Equinox while still achieving EPA marks of 44 mpg city/40 mpg highway/42 mpg combined. The newest member of the Prius family also will offer a revolutionary audio setup that—much like the vehicle itself—delivers both increased performance and decreased power consumption. This new JBL GreenEdge sound system, from global audio leader Harman, leverages technologies first introduced in the Lexus LFA supercar and will be a premium option on the 2012 Prius v.

“GreenEdge-enabled HARMAN audio systems provide strong benefits, ranging from reduced system weight to reduced energy consumption—which can translate into enhanced fuel efficiency or extended EV range—plus higher sound pressure levels and greater dynamic response for superior in-car audio enjoyment,” said Sachin Lawande, HARMAN’s chief technology officer and co-president of the company’s automotive business.

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Hybrid vehicle leaders Toyota and Ford have just announced a new partnership that will lead to the development of advanced hybrid trucks and SUVs. Although the two automakers have worked independently on their own rear-wheel drive hybrid systems, they will collaborate in an effort to bring greater efficiency to truck and SUV customers without sacrificing capability.

Not only will Ford and Toyota collaborate on next-generation hybrid powertrain systems, but the automakers will also work to standardize telematics platform standards, helping bring more Internet-based services and useful information to consumers globally.

“This agreement brings together the capability of two global leaders in hybrid vehicles and hybrid technology to develop a better solution more quickly and affordably for our customers,” said Derrick Kuzak, Ford group vice president, Global Product Development. “Ford achieved a breakthrough with the Ford Fusion Hybrid, and we intend to do this again for a new group of truck and SUV buyers – customers we know very well.”

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This is the definitive list to end all 100 Greatest Cars lists. You'll never have to read another list, and this list is absolutely, scientifically, precisely and transcendently correct. That is until we have a few more PBRs.

Greatness, for the reason of this list, is defined by a vehicle's direct, significant contribution to American automotive culture. That does not mean that a car had to actually have been sold in America, but that its legend changed how other cars are seen in its shadow. Some of the choices here are actually racecars.

So it's a biased list in favor of cars that enthusiasts love, but it also acknowledges those everyday cars that have shaped our lives.

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The all-new 2012 Toyota Yaris arrives in showrooms this fall with fresh, sporty styling and a bevy of new safety features. The latest Yaris also boasts improved fuel economy that should satisfy the demands of most subcompact car buyers.

Although Toyota retained the model’s modest exterior dimensions, the 2012 Yaris has a smartly-designed interior that delivers roominess and refinement. Buyers will also love the Yaris’ responsive driving dynamics.

Toyota didn’t want the Yaris to be just another frugal subcompact. Engineers and designers wanted to create a no-compromise vehicle, and successfully delivered on that promise. Under the hood is a potent 1.5-liter, 16-valve, four-cylinder DOHC engine equipped with variable valve timing with intelligence (VVT-i), producing 106 horsepower and 103 pound-feet of torque. All Yaris L, LE and SE models are available with a new four-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission, featuring a more compact, lighter-weight design and reduced friction for greater fuel efficiency.  A sportier, smooth-shifting five-speed manual transmission is also available on L and SE models.

The suspension on the Yaris has also been re-tuned for a better ride and improved driving feel. Standard tire size has also been increased to 15-inches to satisfy that goal, along with giving the car and edgier look.

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Whether you regularly shuttle groceries in a Corolla or haul heavy gear in a Tundra, Genuine Toyota Accessories can help you handle everyday tasks with more ease and efficiency.

Backed by Toyota’s New Vehicle Limited Warranty¹ or Accessory Warranty, Genuine Toyota Accessories not only help you make your vehicle more “you,” they may also help maintain or improve your vehicle’s resale value. And, unlike aftermarket accessories, Genuine Toyota Accessories are engineered for a custom fit to your specific Toyota, not a generic fit that may cause you problems during your ownership experience.<< MORE >>

Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc. announced manufacturer’s suggested retail prices (MSRP) for the all-new 2012 next-generation Yaris subcompact. Also announced were MSRPs for the 2012 Tundra full-size pickup truck, Sequoia large sport utility vehicle (SUV) and Sienna van.

The Yaris liftback enters its second-generation with an all-new redesign. The new Yaris will again offer the Toyota Star Safety System as standard equipment and an array of enhancements including a new SE model with an enhanced tuned suspension. Complete details for the new Yaris will be announced in the near future.

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Safety is a top priority at Toyota. The automaker’s Star Safety System — a bundle of numerous safety features — is already standard on every vehicle it sells. Now, the automaker is preparing its  latest safety innovation: active steering.

Some cars feature technology that applies the brakes when a danger is identified in the vehicle’s path. This technology is helpful to avoid collisions with other vehicles or even pedestrians (when it works properly), but Toyota’s active steering system goes a step further and actually steers your car away from danger.

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Toyota has joined other automakers in endorsing a White House plan to raise fuel economy standards to 54.5 mpg by 2025 while reducing greenhouse gas emissions to 163 grams per mile.

“I am pleased to be in Washington today to demonstrate Toyota’s unyielding commitment to this important process.  The long-term objectives of this program are very ambitious, and we intend to meet the challenge,” said Jim Lentz, President and COO of Toyota Motor Sales, USA.
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President Obama is announcing tough fuel-economy standards starting in the 2017 model year, requiring automakers to average 54.5 miles a gallon.
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In further recognition of its commitment to satisfying customers—in this case, those with young children—Toyota put three members of its current lineup on the recently released “Best Family Cars of 2011” list, created by the team at Parents.com. To develop its rankings, the website partnered with Edmunds.com, a premier provider of online information for today’s auto shoppers, to rate vehicles based on factors like fuel efficiency, handling, safety and ability to haul both kids and cargo.

Gaining high marks in all areas was the iconic Toyota Prius—the top-selling hybrid in the world—which was named a “Best Family Car” in the Eco-Friendly category. And while it certainly helps that the Prius can achieve EPA ratings of up to 51 mpg city/48 mpg highway/50 mpg combined, Parents.com also lauded the car for conveniences like a “smart key” that can automatically unlock the vehicle even if the driver’s hands are full, a sliding armrest, and a flat cargo area that can be easily accessed using the Prius’ rear liftgate.

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In 2012, Toyota expects at least 16,000 sales of the new Prius Plug-in. Toyota spokesman, John Hanson, told Bloomberg News that the new model will be a strong seller and that Toyota is prepared to deliver regardless of demand.

The Prius Plug-in will have an electric-only range of at least 13 miles and it will return about 50 miles per gallon in city and highway driving. It will also have a base price that’s less than the Chevrolet Volt and the all-electric Nissan Leaf. However, it will be priced slightly higher than the standard Prius model, which begins at $23,520.
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Currently, there are many infotainment technologies creeping their way into vehicle cabins. The latest technologies include hands-free communications, as well as heads-up displays and other graphic interfaces that provide data on driving conditions or give drivers greater control over in-car systems.

One vehicle concept recently introduced by Toyota shows what near-future technologies could do to provide a sense of play, exploration and learning for passengers. Developed by Toyota Motor Europe and the Copenhagen Institute of Interaction Design (CIID), Toyota’s “Window to the World” concept includes touch-screen glass that enables passengers to view distant objects up-close and learn more about the environment that’s outside the vehicle’s windows.
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If you find your self living anywhere where it gets pretty hot in the summer, you'll want to know what locals know about summer car safety. Having the right items--and never having the wrong items--in your vehicle will make driving in the heat a much safer and enjoyable experience.

If you ever park outside during the summer months, your car will heat up quickly. Heat coming in through the windows is absorbed by the interior, and the glass acts as an insulator. The temperature in your car get up to 200 degrees, depending on the temperature outside, the kind of vehicle you have, and how long it has been in the sun.

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At its recent annual dealer conference in Las Vegas, Toyota announced that it will launch the Scion iQ electric car in 2012. The electric car will take on a slew of new electrified vehicles, including the Nissan Leaf, Mitsubishi i, Chevrolet Volt, and Ford Focus Electric.

Toyota is already the dominant brand when it comes to hybrids, thanks to its Prius line. However, the addition of the Scion iQ will give its youth-oriented brand a much needed jump into the all-electric vehicle market.

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The Toyota Prius is the top non-luxury hybrid in the 2011 Hybrid Scorecard compiled by the Union of Concerned Scientists. The Prius beat Honda’s Civic Hybrid and Insight for the coveted top spot to become the cleanest, most fuel-efficient vehicle available.

The organization praised the Toyota Prius for “delivering a more than 40 percent reduction in global warming pollution compared with its closest conventional models.”

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The Toyota Prius, the best-selling hybrid in America, is known for impressive fuel economy and not performance. But for those that want a thrilling ride and high mileage, Toyota’s all-new PLUS Performance Package may be the perfect option.

Developed by Toyota Racing Development (TRD), PLUS enables Prius drivers to benefit from aggressive styling and improved handling. Best of all, the package doesn’t impair the hybrid’s renowned fuel economy.

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For the 2011 model year, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) raised the bar for vehicles trying to qualify as Top Safety Picks, implementing new, more rigorous guidelines for its analysis of rollover crash protection. As a result, today’s IIHS standards are so high that full-size crew-cab pickups like the Dodge Ram, Chevrolet Silverado, Nissan Titan and GMC Sierra didn’t make the cut in the latest round of IIHS testing—but the Toyota Tundra crew cab did.

The Tundra crew cab became a 2011 Top Safety Pick by posting the best possible scores in the IIHS roof-strength evaluation, as well as testing for side-, front- and rear-impact protection, and also offering electronic stability control (standard on Toyota’s award-winning pickup). That important safety technology is a key component of the Toyota Star Safety System that helps add further peace of mind to the Tundra ownership experience; other features of the system include anti-lock brakes, electronic brakeforce distribution, brake assist, traction control and a full complement of airbags. In fact, the Tundra was the first full-size pickup sold in the U.S. to offer front seat-mounted side and roll-sensing side-curtain airbags in all models—which also pack standard driver and front-passenger knee airbags as well.

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Toyota received a combined four segment awards in the 2011 J.D. Power and Associates Initial Quality Study (IQS), which was just released this week. Toyota’s luxury arm, Lexus, was honored as the as the highest ranking nameplate in the industry, while the Toyota Division moved up 14 positions to place seventh.

This year’s study revealed that Toyotas had 16 fewer problems per 100 vehicles, enabling the brand to return to the top 10 among all nameplates.  Models that improved their scores from last year’s study included the Corolla, Prius, Tacoma, Tundra, Venza, RAV4, and Sequoia.

Lexus continued to shine in the annual study, as the brand has ranked highest in the IQS study in 13 of the last 22 years. Lexus also captured four segment awards in this year’s study, more than any other premium brand.  These awards include the Lexus ES 350 for Entry Premium car; the Lexus GS for Midsize Premium Car; the Lexus GX 460 for Midsize Premium Crossover/SUV; and the Lexus LS 460 for Large Premium Car.

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The Toyota Prius is the most fuel-efficient, mass-produced hybrid vehicle currently available in the U.S. Since its release, its popularity has been staggering, and the latest third-generation model has only fueled demand even further. The Prius name has become synonymous with hybrid technology over the years, which is why Toyota decided to expand the Prius lineup with a plug-in model and a larger MPV variant.

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Summer can be tough on cars, especially during high temperatures when heat can destroy batteries and stress the cooling system and tires. As a precaution, these vehicle components should be checked periodically during summer to help avoid breakdowns and car problems, according to the Car Care Council.

Excessive heat and overcharging shorten the life of a battery. Heat causes battery fluid to evaporate, which then damages the internal structure of the battery. A malfunctioning component in the charging system, usually the voltage regulator, allows too high a charging rate, which will eventually destroy a battery.

To get the most life out of a battery, the council recommends having the electrical system checked to make sure it is charging at the correct rate. If your car's battery is the type that needs to be topped off, check it often, especially in hot weather and add distilled water if necessary. Keep the top of the battery clean. Dirt can become a conductor, which drains battery power. If corrosion accumulates on battery terminals, it becomes an insulator and inhibits the current flow.

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Congratulations, college grads! You hit the books, passed the exams and now it's time to celebrate. Toyota and Toyota Financial Services want to honor your accomplishment with one of the most competitive college grad rebates in the marketplace -- $1000 toward one of our six new Toyota models.1

Want the highlights?

Which vehicles can I choose from?

Eligible vehicles include a new 2011 Camry (except hybrid model), Corolla, Matrix, RAV4, Tacoma or Yaris. Vehicles must be purchased or leased through your Toyota dealer and Toyota Financial Services.

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Motorists caught between quick-lube chains' and automakers' guidelines on when to get an oil change may finally catch a break.

The largest chain, Jiffy Lube, is ditching the long-held one-size-fits-all mantra that oil should be changed every 3,000 miles. Instead, it says, franchisees will combine customer information on driving habits and the recommendations from their car's owner's manual for types of driving, from light to "severe," to come up with a specific schedule for that customer.

The system, which uses a kiosk with a computer to access a database of manufacturer guidelines, has been in testing for several months.

"We're showing them on a screen (what) a manufacturer recommends," says Jiffy Lube CEO Stu Crum. He says 47% of the customers at participating locations opted for the severe-driving schedule, with plans to get oil changed an average of every 3,502 miles. "Customers are choosing oil-change schedules that indicate they will return regularly."

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Toyota’s TAPESTRY Grant Program was established to recognize excellent and creativity in science education. Recently, Toyota announced a group of 50 U.S.-based educators that will receive $500,000 in grants from the program.

For more than 20 years, the Toyota TAPESTRY Grants for Science Teachers Program has strived to enhance science education for students. Even amid troubles facing the nation’s schools, the program continues to get students excited about science.

“It’s extremely rewarding to support exceptional teachers who bring quality science education to our children,” said Michael Rouse, vice president of philanthropy, Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc. “The Toyota TAPESTRY program was built on the vision of recognizing such teachers and supporting their efforts to improve science learning opportunities for children. Over the past 21 years, we’ve had the opportunity to turn that dream into reality.”

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Even though Toyota is currently the world leader in hybrid sales, with more than 1 million Toyota Prii sold in the U.S. alone, the company remains committed to exploring other new ways to motivate the automobile industry, including hydrogen fuel-cell vehicles. And those efforts continued recently when Toyota helped open the country’s first hydrogen fueling station to be fed directly from an active industrial hydrogen pipeline.

The facility, developed through a collaboration between Toyota, Air Products, Shell Oil, California’s South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD) and the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), is located near Toyota Motor Sales’ West Coast campus and will provide hydrogen for both Toyota’s fuel-cell demonstration program and that of other automakers operating in the Los Angeles area.

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Once again showcasing its unique combination of high fuel-efficiency and high quality, the Toyota Highlander Hybrid went up against two redesigned rivals—the VW Touareg TDI and Ford Explorer—in recent testing by the automotive experts at Consumer Reports. The bottom line: The Highlander topped both competitors, thanks to an “Excellent” score in the CR’s road tests.

Unsurprisingly, the fuel-sipping Toyota also posts better EPA lines than the other two, even taking into consideration the Touareg’s diesel powerplant. The Highlander Hybrid is EPA-certified to achieve 28 mpg city/28 mpg highway/28 mpg combined—that’s 8 mpg higher than the Ford in terms of combined fuel-efficiency ratings, and 6 mpg better than the VW. And remember, the Highlander achieves that performance even though it’s configured with four-wheel drive to offer the kind of capabilities drivers expect from an SUV.

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Plug In America, the nation’s leading plug-in vehicle advocacy organization, is eager to help accelerate plug-in vehicle adoption. To help get more attention to electric vehicles, the group created a video that compares EVs to later-1980s cell phones.

According to the video, plug-in vehicles of today are what cell phones were in 1987; new, and exciting, but unfortunately a long way from being accessible. The organization wants consumers to keep demanding plug-in vehicles, and the infrastructure to go along with them. Only then will plug-in vehicles make a dent in the market; and, more importantly, a dent in our world.
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