Here's a great Christmas Playlist!

To help get you in the Christmas spirit, here's a great playlist from Spotify! If your looking to liven up your office or work commute, try out some of these holiday hits. What are some of your favorite holiday songs?     If you still have car shopping on your holiday to-do list, be sure to stop by our Raleigh dealership and take a new car for a test drive. Happy Holidays!

Rank 'Em: Christmas Movie Edition

In honor of the holiday season, here's a fun little activity. How would you rank these classic Christmas movies? Share your answers in the comments below.

• Elf
• A Christmas Story
• Home Alone

Happy Holidays from everyone at Fred Anderson Toyota!

The Tacoma Can Help Tackle Your Christmas Tree Needs

As the holiday season reaches its peak, we are all busily tackling our to-do lists. From shopping for gifts to preparing for parties, there's certainly much to accomplish. But one of the tasks that is near the top of almost everyone's list is getting a Christmas tree. If you're still searching for the perfect tree, don't forget your Toyota Tacoma.

With its V6 engine, large truck bed and easy lower and lift tailgate, the Tacoma is the perfect truck to help you transport your tree safely and securely.

If you're in need of a new Toyota truck to help with your holiday tasks, be sure to stop by our Toyota dealership and take one for a test drive!

The Top Three Things Teens Should Know About Driving

It is considered one of the many rights of passage into adulthood. As children enter their teenage years, many can't help but count down  the days until they get their first car. But before your teen gets behind the wheel, make sure they know these three important things about driving:

• What to do when you're stopped by a police officer: When (or if) you get pulled over, don't panic. Just safely pull to the side of the road, turn off the car, roll down the window and keep your hands visible. Don't make any sudden moves or argue with the officer.
• How to deal with a flat tire: They are practically unavoidable. If you blow a tire, pull completely off the road. Then call roadside assistance and let that person change the tire. If you have a spare and know how to change the tire, make sure you are out of traffic and in plain sight of oncoming traffic before changing it yourself.
• What to do when the "check engine" light comes on: If there is any change in the car's performance, any mechanical noises, smoke from the tailpipe or electrical smells, stop the car and call for assistance. If there are none of these symptoms, take the car to a dealer and let them diagnose the problem.

These tips will definitely help keep your teen safe on the road. If it's time for him or her to get their first new car, visit our Toyota dealership and take one for a test drive today!

Want to Save Gas? Plan Trips Accordingly.

We all lead busy lives. Most weekdays seem like there aren't enough hours in the day and weekends are just as hectic. From an endless list of errands to numerous meetings around town, finding the time to think about fuel efficiency can be a difficult task. But don't worry, we're here to help.

If you want to try increasing your car's fuel efficiency, we recommend taking a few extra minutes to plan out your trips. For instance, try reducing the miles you drive by running all your errands in one trip. If you need to make a run to the grocery store and pick up the kids after soccer practice, don't make separate outings. With a little bit of foresight, you'll be stretching your fuel economy in no time!

A well-oiled car is another way to save gas. Be sure to take advantage of our service specials if your Toyota needs a tune up.

Feature Focus: 4Runner Towing Capacity

Today's Feature Focus introduces us to the new 2014 Toyota 4Runner and its amazing towing capacity. If you're looking for a new Toyota, we definitely recommend looking at the 4Runner.

For those who enjoy venturing into some of nature’s toughest ranges, the new 4Runner is so strong, you'll never have to leave everything behind again. The 2014 4Runner can tow up to 4,700 lbs. and adheres to SAE J2807, the standard for tow ratings set by the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE). This awesome feature makes this Toyota SUV the perfect travel companion.

So if you're in the market for a new Toyota, be sure to visit our Raleigh Automotive Dealership and take one for a test drive!

Feature Focus: LED Daytime Running Lights

For today's Feature Focus, we're highlighting an awesome exterior design feature for the 2014 Toyota Venza. The next time you're looking at purchasing a new vehicle, be sure to check out the LED Daytime Running Lights on the Toyota mid-size crossover SUV.

The Venza's Limited Daytime Running Lights create an eye-catching profile while cruising around at night, and while driving to the office during the day. These stylish LED headlights ensure you'll be well-equipped for the road and be seen by everyone.

If you want to see this cool feature in person, stop by our Raleigh dealership and take a Venza for a test drive today!

Origin Story: Kicking the Tires

If you have ever gone car shopping, you've undoubtedly heard the phrase "kick the tires." Many of us have participated in this car-buying tradition, but where did this ritual come from?

The story begins in the early 20th century. Tires on early automobiles were made of thin rubber and were sometimes of poor quality. While looking for a new vehicle a prospective buyer might kick the tires to see how thick they were or if they would deflate. And so the tradition began.

Vehicles have evolved a lot since the early years of the automobile, but you can still find shoppers testing out the tires as they cruise the dealership.

If you're looking to test drive a new Toyota, check out our current selection on our website and stop by the dealership today!

The Toyota Land Cruiser is Anything but Ruff

If you're a proud dog owner, you might want to consider getting a new Toyota. In a recent article, Jalopnik named the Toyota Land Cruiser as one of the 10 best cars for dog owners. Its cargo space and comfortable interior can easily accommodate canines of any size. So whether you prefer a Great Dane or a Chihuahua, the Toyota Land Cruiser will help solidify your spot as your dog's best friend.

Be sure to stop by our Toyota dealership and take a new Land Cruiser for a test drive today. We're here to help!

Throwback Thursday: Classic Car Show Edition

This week, we were scrolling through some amazing photos from the ninth annual Japanese Classic Car Show. There were some great photos of some vintage Toyota models and we thought we'd share our favorite pic with you for Throwback Thursday. Toyota has an amazing history and it's great to take a look back and see these classics and the impact they still have today in the automotive world.

If you want to check out some of the new Toyota models, visit our Toyota website and stop by the dealership for a test drive!

Feature Focus: 2014 Corolla SofTex Seats

Our first Feature Focus is highlighting the SofTex Seats in the new 2014 Corolla. Many car shoppers go through great lengths to find the most comfortable ride for their new car. Well, look no further than the new Toyota Corolla. SofTex seats blend science and luxury with leather-like, water- and stain-resistant support for any and all road trips.

This interior feature is available on LE Premium, LE Eco Premium and S Premium.

If you're in the market for a new Toyota Corolla, be sure to head over to our Toyota website to see available models and visit our Raleigh, NC dealership today!

Tailgating this Season? Use a Venza.

The 2013 football season is in full swing and fans across the country are spending their weekends hanging out at the stadium with family and friends. If you're one of those who are tailgating this year, be sure to pick the Toyota Venza as your vehicle of choice.

The Venza was chosen by Bankrate.com as one of the top 10 vehicles for tailgate parties this fall. With enough room to comfortably seat five and all of your tailgating supplies, this Toyota will help make your party a success.

If you're looking for a new Toyota to recharge your tailgate festivities, be sure to visit our Raleigh Toyota Dealership.

Toyota is a Must Have at Any Tailgate Party

As Labor Day approaches, that can only mean one thing. College football is back! And as football fans across the country flock to their favorite stadiums, many are anxious to get ready for all of the fun tailgating festivities.

If you're planning your tailgate game plan for the upcoming season, don't forget to bring along your trusty Toyota! The Tundra, Tacoma or 4Runner are excellent vehicles to help ensure your tailgate party is a complete success.

Don't have a Toyota? Be sure to head over to our Raleigh Dealership to take one for a test drive!

The Hybrid-R Concept is Ready for Debut

If you've been waiting for a hybrid that can hold its own on the race track, the wait is almost over. Toyota is set to debut its new Hybrid-R concept at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show next month.

According to the New York Daily News, The Hybrid-R will have a 400 hp motor that is based on the technology used in the Toyota TS030, which competed in the latest Le Mans 24 Hours race.

While we don't have any race-ready Toyota concepts, we still have a number of great models available. Visit our Toyota website to learn more or stop by to take one for a test drive!

Getting to know the Avalon: Exterior

For today's blog entry, we're learning more about the new exterior of the 2013 Toyota Avalon. From its Quadrabeam halogen headlights to its slide moonroof with sliding sunshade, there's a lot to like about this sleek Toyota sedan.

The 2013 Avalon is taking Toyota in an exciting new direction. The automaker took a completely new approach to create the purest expression of driving possible.

If you haven't already, be sure to stop by Fred Anderson Toyota and take one of our new Avalons for a test drive! We have a number of great models available.

Maintenance Monday Tip: How to Fix Your Flat Tire

Mondays can be a bit rough. But spending a Monday dealing with a flat tire on your Toyota is down right dreadful. If you need help alleviating a bad case of the Mondays the next time your gets a flat tire, remember this Maintenance Monday tip.

If you think your tire may have an air leak, check to see if you find a screw, nail or any other kinds of debris sticking out of the tire. If you don't find anything, fill a squirt bottle with a vegetable base soap and water solution or tire manufacturer approved leak detector liquid. Then inflate the tire and spray the entire tire with your bottle full of cleaner.

As the cleaner runs down the tread of the tire, you should notice a small volcano-like eruption of bubbles right where your puncture lies. Once you've identified the leak, be sure to get the damaged tire replaced as soon as possible.

For tire repairs and other automotive service needs, don't forget to schedule your next service appointment online on our dealership website.

Toyota is Adding Some Fun to Your Sidewalk Commute

Toyota isn't just innovating your trips on the road. The automaker just announced that they're beginning testing on their Segway-like Winglet in Japan.

The Winglet is a two-wheeled vehicle that works similar to the popular Segway and is said to go six miles between charges.

To learn more about this new Toyota vehicle, head over to Autoblog. If four wheels are more your speed, take a look at the new Toyota models on our Toyota dealership website.

Your Favorite Organization Could Win a New Toyota!

Whether it's through volunteering at your local hospital or donating to your favorite charity, helping others in need is an excellent way to support your local community. There are many ways to become more philanthropic in your town, and Toyota is here to help.

In an effort to promote the importance of philanthropy, Toyota is beginning its third year of the 100 Cars for Good program. This philanthropic program invites the public to select 100 worthy organizations nationwide that will receive a Toyota vehicle.

If you know of a worthy organization, please encourage them to apply for this amazing program. Up to 2,500 applications will be accepted between 7/22/13 to 8/5/13, so apply as soon as possible.

To apply and learn more about 100 Cars for Good, visit www.100carsforgood.com.

SpongeBob SquarePants + 2014 Highlander = An Awesome Custom Toyota

Everyone loves SpongeBob SquarePants. Both children and adults alike spend countless hours huddled in front of the TV watching the adorable cartoon character. 

While he may live in a pineapple under the sea, SpongeBob can now also be found on your favorite Toyota SUV.

Nickelodeon and Toyota are making this the best summer ever for SpongeBob fans with the creation of the first SpongeBob SquarePants-inspired vehicle. 

To learn more about this custom 2014 Toyota Highlander, visit the Toyota Pressroom.

Worldwide Prius Sales Top 3-Million Mark

Toyota Motor Corporation (TMC) announces that as of the end of June, worldwide cumulative sales of the iconic Prius gasoline-electric hybrid vehicle passed the 3-million mark.

In 1997, TMC launched the Prius, which was the world’s first mass-produced hybrid passenger car. The second generation followed in 2003, and the third generation in 2009. From the first to third generation, TMC greatly reduced the cost of the hybrid system by two-thirds while improving the EPA-estimated ratings for combined driving by nearly 22 percent. In addition, TMC applied for 1,261 patents relating to the third-generation Prius, achieving progress worthy of the Prius name (derived from a Latin word meaning “to go before”).

Since the development of the first-generation Prius, TMC has positioned hybrid technology as a core technology required for the development of various types of environment-friendly vehicles and has placed emphasis on the development and production of core components such as motors, inverters, batteries and electronic control units (ECUs), giving rise to substantial investment in Japan.

TMC will continue to conduct R&D and invest in facilities in Japan for the development of hybrid and other cutting-edge technologies and achieve sustainable growth by deploying these Japan-developed technologies across the globe.

In the fiscal year ending March 2014, TMC expects to spend a consolidated 890 billion yen (790 billion yen unconsolidated) on environmental technology development, as well as on strengthening new platform and major component development.

In the same period, TMC also plans to make consolidated capital expenditure investments of 910 billion yen (up seven percent year-on-year), with 440 billion yen invested in Japan (up nine percent year-on-year).

Investments in R&D infrastructure include a new R&D facility (651 hectares) and the Powertrain Development and Production Engineering Building (a 12-story structure with a total floor area of 100,000 m²) in Toyota City, Aichi Prefecture, that will serve as a next-generation powertrain development base, as well as the Aerodynamics Laboratory (capable of producing winds of 250 km/h) located in the Honsha Technical Center.

Future capital investments by consolidated subsidiaries include an investment by Primearth EV Energy Co., Ltd. (PEVE) for expanding battery production capacity at its Omori Plant in Kosai City, Shizuoka Prefecture.

Courtesy of Toyota Pressroom 

Toyota reveals new customizable Camatte57s kid-friendly concepts

Toyota plans to follow up last year's kid-friendly Camatte concept with two new versions: the Camatte57s and Camatte57s Sport. Like the original Camatte, the two new concepts will make their debut at the International Tokyo Toy Show.

Not much has changed with these two new Camatte models. Like their predecessor, they both feature detachable body panels (the count is up to 57), a 1+2 seating array and reconfigurable pedals that allow children to operate the gas and brakes while Mom or Dad steers. What is new is an open-top roadster design that even eschews doors in favor of easier ingress/egress. They look like something a tourist would rent to get around a Hawaiian island, though we dig the distinct personalities of each model's design.

Both cars are all-electric, though Toyota hasn't provided any other specifications, like what makes the Sport model sporty besides its more aggressive body panels and silver, black and red color scheme. That's just as well, as neither concept, like the original Camatte before them, is street legal.

And in case you're wondering from where Toyota conjured these concepts' odd name, "Camatte" is the Japanese for word for "care." According to the automaker, it's intended to signify both caring for others and caring for cars, while the lone 's' at the end of each name stands for "touch," and the number corresponds to the number of body panels.

Courtesy of Autoblog.com

Shuttle-hauling Tundra finds permanent home in science exhibit

The idea of lifting a full-size pickup truck completely off the ground by hand might seem as likely as, say, said pickup truck towing a 150,000-pound space shuttle, but... hurray, physics! The same Toyota Tundra that towed the Space Shuttle Endeavour to its final resting place at the California Science Center is now on permanent display there as an exhibit that shows how a lever works.

Like all levers, this exhibit uses a fulcrum allowing people other than Superman to lift the 5,625-pound pickup (plus an extra 1,000 pounds for the rig). That's almost as impressive as the Tundra pulling 17 times its rated towing capacity back in October. Regardless, Toyota is once again cashing in on the publicity stunt and visitors to the science center get a live demonstration of a simple machine – we call that a win-win.

Courtesy of Autoblog.com

Here’s your Car Care Tip of the Week: Empty Your Pockets fans!

The average guy spends 67 minutes each day behind the wheel. A thick wallet in your back pocket raises one hip above the other, twisting your spine and straining your lower back. Plus it can put pressure on your sciatic nerve, a common source of lower-back pain.

Toyota Donates $250,000 to Oklahoma Tornado Relief Efforts

Toyota announced a $250,000 donation to support relief and rebuilding efforts for victims of the tornado that hit Moore, Oklahoma and the greater Oklahoma City area on May 20.  Funds will be allocated to immediate response and for mid-to-long term needs in the areas of food, small business revitalization and home rebuilding.  Toyota will also match employee contributions.

“On behalf of Toyota, we express our sincere condolences to everyone impacted by this devastating tornado. Our thoughts are with the affected families as they work to rebuild their lives,” said Latondra Newton, group vice president of philanthropy and chief diversity officer.

Courtesy of Toyota Pressroom 

Toyota and National Center for Family Literacy Launch $10 Million Initiative

Toyota and the National Center for Family Literacy (NCFL) are launching Toyota Family Learning, a six-year initiative that will create a new model for literacy by expanding it beyond the walls of the classroom and into homes and communities. This new initiative will engage families in learning together both online and offline, incorporating digital elements launching later this year, including a website, mobile app, social media and more. Today, the first phase of Toyota Family Learning goes live: a grant program for communities to fund new family mentor and service learning programs targeting vulnerable families.

Five organizations will be awarded a three-year, $175,000 grant, in addition to a wide range of NCFL training and communication support, learning items and materials. Fifteen grants will be awarded over the course of the six-year initiative. Schools, libraries and community-based organizations that provide services to families are eligible to apply. Submissions are being accepted now through June 24 at www.toyotafamilylearning.org. Submissions will be evaluated on a number of factors, including strength of existing services, commitment from community partners, and strength and innovation of proposal. Grant recipients will be notified in July.

“The vision for Toyota Family Learning is to become a modern-day movement for families learning together and this grant program launch is the first of many steps we’ll be taking in the coming months and years to make that vision a reality,” said Sharon Darling, president and founder, NCFL. “The components of this initiative are all rooted in increasing Parent and Child Together (PACT) Time® that is so critical to improving family literacy.”

“For over 20 years, we’ve been proud and humbled by our partnership with NCFL, which has helped more than one million families learn and grow together,” said Patricia Salas Pineda, group vice president of National Philanthropy and the Toyota USA Foundation at Toyota Motor North America. “We’re excited to build on this with the new Toyota Family Learning initiative and look forward to seeing how local community organizations will help expand our work beyond the classroom and into homes and communities.”

This new initiative is the latest in Toyota’s long-standing support of NCFL’s mission to advance family learning and literacy. Since 1991, Toyota has been a strategic partner to NCFL, providing more than $36 million to fund 256 literacy programs nationwide and impacting more than 1 million families. Program highlights include:

• Toyota Family Literacy Program: brings parents and children from immigrant families together in a classroom to learn and engage with culturally relevant programming.

• Toyota Teacher of the Year award: annually recognizes individual educators for their efforts to improve literacy among learners of all ages. The winner receives a $20,000 grant to implement his or her classroom project.

• Toyota Families in Schools: establishes learning services in schools and engages parents and at-risk students aged 5 to 12 years old by providing academic and home-life support.

Courtesy of Toyota Pressroom 

Toyota’s Prius v and Avalon on Kelley Blue Book’s List Of 10 Best Family Cars

The editors of Kelley Blue Book selected the 2013 Prius v and the 2013 Avalon for their list of 10 Best Family Cars. The list is compiled annually by KBB.com editors to highlight vehicles that address unique family specifications and situations, and offer innovation.

“Our annual list is aimed at helping families find the right ride and always include something for everyone, with a special nod to what is new,” said Jack R. Nerad, executive editorial director and executive market analyst for Kelley Blue Book’s KBB.com.

Kelley Blue Book’s KBB.com editors offer these thoughts on the two Toyota models:

2013 Toyota Prius v
“Let's say you love Toyota vehicles and want the exceptional fuel economy of a hybrid, but the standard Prius just isn't big enough. Then consider the 2013 Prius v, which comes jam-packed with all the Prius-ness you crave while also offering roughly 50 percent more cargo space. Yes, plus-sizing the Prius cuts combined fuel economy from 50 mpg to 42 mpg, but among family-friendly vehicles the Prius v remains a mileage champ.”

2013 Toyota Avalon
“Renowned for its spacious interior quarters, abundance of luxury features and sofa-soft ride, the fully redesigned Toyota Avalon can now add "high style" to its list of highlights. In addition, laudable fuel economy coupled with an exemplary reputation for reliability and quality, make the 2013 Avalon a smart buy for today's value-conscious family.”

Courtesy of Toyota Pressroom 

1967 Toyota 2000GT most expensive Asian car ever sold at $1.2M

Toyota's agelessly beautiful 2000GT has been sold by RM Auctions for $1.16 million, making it the new record holder for the most expensive Asian car ever sold. As always, rarity played a big factory in driving up the price; just 351 2000GT models were built, and only 62 left-hand-drive cars (like this one). The classic Toyota, standout member of Texas car-collector Don Davies' paddock, was originally a US-delivery car that spent time in a collection back in a Japan before returning to Texas just a short time ago. The car last sold in March of 2011, for just $650,000.

Enthusiasts will recognize the 2000GT as perhaps the most heralded Japanese classic of all time. Sometimes referred to as Japan's first supercar, the 2000GT boasted a 150-horsepower, dual overhead cam, 2.0-liter straight-six engine; a five-speed manual transmission; and a reported top speed of over 135 miles per hour.

RM described this record-setting example as, "the finest and most authentic 2000GT to come to market in recent years."

Courtesy of Autoblog.com

Scion celebrates first 10 years with special edition models

As the story goes, Toyota's Scion brand was imagined up in someone's basement and then came to fruition in 2003 as a youth-oriented brand with a focus on delivering unique vehicles with an equally unique retail experience. A decade later, the brand has grown to five models, which will each be commemorated starting in June with a new Scion 10 Series edition.

In varying quantities, Scion will be offering the FR-S, tC, iQ, xB and xD with an exclusive package that will all come in the Silver Ignition exterior color. Aside from the paint, these cars will also receive Scion badges on the front and rear that are backlit with blue LEDs that illuminate when the car is unlocked. Silver seat belts and a solar-powered illuminated shift knob will help distinguish the interiors of these cars, but the iQ, xB and xD will stand out further from the outside with darker alloy wheels.

In total, just 10,000 Scion 10 Series models are planned, and each will be identifiable with a sequentially numbered badge inside the car. The redesigned 2014 tC will get the most of the special-edition models with 3,500 units, while other new models like the FR-S and iQ will be restricted to just 2,500 units and 900 units, respectively. The original Scion, the xB, will get 2,100 Scion 10 Series models, and the xD will round out the 10,000-unit run with 1,000 models being produced.

Courtesy of Autoblog.com

2013 Stagecoach Country Music Festival Sets the Stage for 2014 Toyota 4Runner Reveal

Toyota will stage the world debut of the redesigned 2014 4Runner mid-size SUV on Saturday, April 27 at 1:15 p.m. PDT at the 2013 Stagecoach Music Festival in Indio, Calif., near Palm Springs.  The event marks the automaker’s first-ever public reveal at a major music festival.

The Toyota 4Runner, now in its fifth generation, has been in the Toyota SUV lineup for nearly three decades and continues to be one of the few fully capable SUVs available in its segment.  The 4Runner combines rugged body-on-frame construction with suspension technology that yields ride comfort more often associated with car-based platforms.  4Runner is available in a variety of configurations and in three models: a well-equipped SR5, top-of-the-line Limited, plus a Trail grade for amazing off-road capability.

Returning for its seventh year as presenting sponsor of Stagecoach, California’s premier country music festival, Toyota will kick off the three-day event with vintage circus-themed fan experiences followed by the unveiling of the 2014 4Runner.  The reveal takes place on a unique Toyota stage and will be hosted by SiriusXM™ radio personality, Buzz Brainard with a very special performance by chart-topping country recording artist, Dierks Bentley.

As part of the reveal celebration, Toyota invites fans to enter a sweepstakes from April 22-29 for a chance to win one of six guitars autographed by Dierks Bentley. Information and official rules can be found on the Toyota USA Facebook page.

Courtesy of Toyota Pressroom

2013 Toyota Tacoma TRD Sport

"Oh yeah, Toyota still makes the Tacoma." Admit it, that's what you just said to yourself. It's a perfectly natural reaction, but the Tacoma has been quietly anchoring its segment for years, outselling every other compact pickup without making too much of a fuss. Toyota hasn't neglected the Tacoma – it was updated in 2012 with a revised nose and interior as the most noteable changes.

In a world awash with high-value fullsize pickups all vying for your attention, the Tacoma still charms more than a few buyers.

Driving Notes

• The size of the Tacoma is nice. While fullsize trucks can feel a bit like the automotive equivalent of relaxed-fit jeans, the Tacoma does the Goldilocks "just right" thing for my purposes.
• The 4.0-liter V6 and five-speed automatic combo is just as thirsty here as a larger truck would be, returning 18 mpg in my hands.
• The interior was updated for 2012 too, getting water-resistant seat fabric with the TRD Sport package, along with black center console and door trim.
• The classic Toyota small-pickup traits remain. You sit low to the floor with your legs splayed out a bit, just like you always have, and the steering is tight and direct. Keep your boot out of it, and the V6 and five-speed auto are smooth operators, too.

Courtesy of Autoblog.com

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

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.

“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 Vogue readers 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. 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, which is associated with a doubling of a driver’s risk of being killed in a crash, as compared to having no passengers.

“Arrive In Style” is the latest initiative from Toyota that is designed to help keep teens safe on the road.  Toyota Driving Expectations provides hands-on, real world defensive driving courses that go far beyond what is taught in standard driver education courses, while Toyota Teen Driver  offers free online teen safety resources to parents, teens, educators and schools.   The Toyota Collaborative Safety Research Center 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.

Courtesy of Toyota Pressroom 

Don't Forget About Our Service Coupons!

While spring is the season for cleaning your house, don’t forget to make sure your Toyota is in tip-top shape too! Go to our “Offers” tab to take advantage of our great service coupons!

Offers - http://on.fb.me/WxmpmY

New, Sportier 2014 Scion tC Debuts at New York International Auto Show

Scion revealed the new 2014 tC sports coupe at the New York International Auto Show, showing off a sporty new look, upgraded interior and an enhanced driving experience for the brand’s top-selling vehicle.

“The sustained success of the tC, which accounts for 40 percent of all Scions ever sold, challenged designers to enhance the 2014 sports coupe in ways that keep it exciting to today’s drivers without losing its core appeal,” said Doug Murtha, Scion vice president.  “The outstanding result is a 2014 tC with a sportier style and driving experience that will thrill buyers and hold its unique spot in the marketplace.”

Aggressive Look with New Exterior Design and 18-Inch Wheels
The 2014 Scion tC is defined by more assertive styling, starting from the front with distinctive new headlamps and an all-new hood that extends lower toward a more open, muscular grille with an embedded tC logo. The new upper- and lower-grille treatments are bordered by LED accent lighting.

Beneath the rear bumper, a new black-out valance features an FR-S style, lower-center trim piece and lower perimeter reflectors; new advanced LED tail lamps complete the picture. New 18-inch alloy wheels with 225/45R18 tires carry the aggressive character through to the car’s profile. Standard on the tC, the wheels feature a premium dark gray finish, contrasted by eye-catching machined-spoke surfaces.

The tC will be available in seven exterior paint colors, including two new additions, Absolutely Red and Blue Streak Metallic.

Upgraded Materials and Scion Standard Display Audio Enhance Interior
The 2014 Scion tC’s cabin adds new technology, additional convenience features and upgraded materials. The tC will be the first model in the family to come with the all-new Scion Standard Display Audio, featuring a 6.1-inch LCD touchscreen. The system will be incorporated into all 2014 Scion models, making Scion the industry’s first non-luxury brand to feature a touchscreen audio system as standard equipment across its entire lineup. The new audio system comes equipped with features that Scion drivers will enjoy, including Bluetooth^® compatibility, HD Radio™ Technology and steering wheel-mounted controls.

The new base audio system will be joined by an available, all-new Scion BeSpoke Premium Audio system featuring Aha™.  This upgraded system includes full navigation, as well as the ability to connect compatible smart phones through Aha to access 30,000 free audio stations, including Scion’s own signature station featuring a lineup of its 17 music channels.  In addition to audiobook stations, sports, news and entertainment, the Aha service utilizes location–based services like Yelp and TripAdvisor, and integrates most of the popular social media applications, all at a great value for consumers.

Added convenience features for the 2014 tC include auto-off headlamps and an auto-up and down driver's window. The interior is upgraded with premium materials and lighter color fabric on the seats and the headliner.

Sportier Automatic Transmission and Enhanced Dynamic Handling
Getting there will be more than half the fun in the 2014 tC. Its 2.5-liter, four-cylinder engine delivers 179 horsepower at 6,000 RPM, and it is available either with a six-speed manual transmission or an updated six-speed automatic that can change gears nearly twice as fast as the previous model for both upshifts and downshifts. The automatic transmission now features Dynamic Rev Management technology, adopted from the FR-S, which quickly blips the engine to match its revs to gear ratios on downshifts, limiting driveline shock and adding to the visceral experience of driving the car.

Handling is enhanced by making modifications to stabilizer bar hardware, optimizing the shock absorbers, and by increasing the body rigidity with additional spot welds. Driving enthusiasts will also appreciate the retuned electronic power steering that provides a more engaging response. Together, these changes help the new tC to deliver a sportier, fun-to-drive experience behind the wheel. The 2014 Scion tC will arrive in dealerships in June.

Limited-Production Scion 10 Series Models Celebrate Scion’s 10^th Anniversary
In 2003, the first Scion xA and xB vehicles heralded the launch of the Scion brand, which was designed to bring new buyers into the Toyota family and appeal to emerging, younger drivers. The brand has accomplished both, and today it is recognized as having among the youngest median age drivers in the industry. Since its introduction, 75 percent of Scion owners have been new to the Toyota family.

“The Scion 10 Series celebrates 10 years of the brand’s passionate approach, iconic products and success inviting a new, younger buyer to the Toyota family,” Murtha said. “Scion heads into its second decade revved up by a strong product line that continues to stand out on the road.”

To celebrate Scion’s 10^th anniversary, Scion will launch a limited-production version of each vehicle in its lineup called Scion 10 Series. Every Scion 10 Series car will be painted a premium color: Silver Ignition. The anniversary message continues when the driver enters the car to see the Scion name illuminated on the dash before fading to reveal the number 10. The unique models will number a total of 10,000 vehicles, which will begin arriving in dealerships in June.

Other stand-out features include silver seat belts, a solar-powered illuminated shift knob and an LED Scion locator badge that lights up when the car is unlocked. Each vehicle also carries a sequentially numbered interior badge. The xB, iQ, and xD will feature unique alloy wheels in a graphite finish.

The Scion 10 Series FR-S also comes equipped with HID headlamps with integrated LED daytime running lamps, dual automatic climate controls and a smart key with push-button start ignition.

Courtesy of Toyota Pressroom 

Maintenance Monday Tip: Cleaning Your Car's Interior

When cleaning your car's interior, fire up the air compressor and blow dirt from the nooks and crannies of your car's floor onto the middle of the carpet, where you can easily vacuum it up. Stiff brushes also loosen dirt from the carpets and upholstery. If you've got leather seats, use a conditioner with aloe.

Courtesy of Popular Mechanics

Toyota Announces 2013 Corolla LE and S Special Edition Models

Toyota Motor Sales has announced two 2013 Corolla Special Editions that will offer consumers appealing equipment at an attainable price point.

The 2013 Special Edition Corollas will offer unique standard features in two grade levels, LE and S. The LE Special Edition offers equipment targeted at consumers who value comfort and convenient entertainment, including 16-inch alloy wheels, Display Audio with Navigation and Entune™ (three-year subscription), Power and heated Beige leather-trimmed seats, Special Edition floor mats and exterior badging, and a unique Black Currant Metallic exterior color.

The sporty Corolla S Special Edition will provide youthful styling along with 17-inch alloy wheels, Display Audio with Navigation and Entune™, Sport fabric seats coordinated with a unique Hot Lava exterior color, and Special Edition floor mats and exterior badging.

A total of 7,500 Corolla special edition vehicles (2,250 LE and 5,250 S) will be manufactured during a two-month period beginning in April at Toyota Motor Manufacturing Canada (TMMC). The Corolla Special Editions arrive at dealerships in late April. 

Courtesy of Toyota Pressroom

All-New 2014 Next-Generation Toyota Highlander Mid-Size SUV to Make World Debut at 2013 New York Auto Show

Toyota will stage the world debut of the all-new 2014 Highlander mid-size SUV at a press conference at the 2013 New York Auto Show.

The press conference will be held on Wednesday, March 27, at 9:10 a.m. Eastern Time in the Galleria Level Four at the Jacob Javits Center.

Courtesy of Toyota Pressroom

St. Patrick's Day is this Sunday

Just because it's St. Patrick's Day doesn't mean you should push your luck! Have fun and be sure you have a designated driver. 

Eight best features inside the 2013 Toyota RAV4

Toyota has done more with the redesigned RAV4 than take the spare tire off the back. On sale now in its fourth generation, the 2013 Toyota RAV4 has lost its available V6 engine, gained a new six-speed automatic transmission and added some features inside.

Here are the RAV4 interior features we think you should know about:

1. The front seats have a slim back to enhance rear knee room.

2. A backup camera and 6.1-inch center display are standard.

3. The seats are comfortable. Bump up to the XLE for side bolstering, and then to the Limited for synthetic leather trim.

4. Cargo space has improved in this new two-row-only set-up. Space is up 1.2 cubic feet to 38.4 cubic feet behind the rear seats, and with the rear seats folded down there is 73.3 cubic feet. The comparable 2012 Honda CR-V measures in at 37.2 cubic feet with seats up, 70.9 cubic feet with seats down.

5. A manual tilt/telescope steering column comes standard.

6. Steering wheels are either wrapped in urethane plastic (base LE and mid-grade XLE) or leather (Limited trim), and feature controls for audio and Bluetooth.

7. The second row has a 60/40 split, folds down and reclines.

8. The Sport button below the radio controls, which noticeably firms up the steering, changes shift points and improves throttle response.

Courtesy of Autoweek.com

Kudos to Larry for providing outstanding customer service

"Go and ask for Larry Zievis. I have been to many other dealerships that focus on the hard sell and closing fast. I went in first last October, it was late and they were about to close but Larry took the time to speak with us and learn our needs." - marchantmiller

Click here to read this review and many more on DealerRater.

Scion FR-S Named Best Sports Car for the Money by U.S. News & World Report

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 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.

Courtesy of Toyota Pressroom 

We Are Collecting Items for Troop Care Packages

We are working with members in our community to collect items for care packages for our troops overseas. If you would like to help us collect items for our troops, please drop them off at our dealership.

Here is a list of items that we are collecting:

Care / Share Package Items for Soldiers

General Items

• Snacks and non-perishable food items, particularly tuna kits, beef jerky, canned fruit, dried fruit, nuts and other healthy snacks
• Undershirts (white, short sleeve)
• Socks (bootcut, black, green, or white)
• Cigarettes, Copenhagen and Skoal
• Single-use cameras (disposable style)
• Pre-sweetened flavored beverage mixes
• Letters of support (letters from you, from children, or from your business, office, school, or other organization in support of our troops)
• Phone Cards

Food and Snack Items
Pork and pork by-products are not allowed to be shipped to most Middle East combat locations. Please send non-perishable foods only. Single-serving package sizes are preferred; large packages won't stay fresh and are harder to ship. If you can stuff it in your pocket and it's not going to spoil or melt during the summer season, it's a good thing to send!

• Gum, Lifesavers, Mints (blister pack gum is best because of the intense heat)
• Fruit: individual serving size cans of fruit, dried fruit
• Nuts, sunflower seeds, peanuts, trail mix
• Power bars, protein bars, nutritional bars
• Beef jerky, beef summer sausage (non-perishable; labeled USDA Beef)
• Single-serving bags of snacks, crackers, chips, snack mixes
• Pop Tarts, cereal bars, "milk & cereal" bars, granola bars
• Ramen Noodles, Cup-O-Noodles serving cups
• Ravioli and other canned ready-to-eat meals (canned or styrofoam single serving are best)
• Tuna lunch kits (includes foil pouch of tuna, crackers, and condiments in each single-serving kit)
• Canned sardines, smoked oysters
• Torengos® nacho-style chips and canned nacho cheese dip
• Jalapeño Velveeta® and crackers
• Taco Bell® Sauce Packets
• Seasoning salts, flavoring salts

Beverage Items
We cannot ship liquids. However, they do need flavors to add to the drinking water provided to them. Please send pre-sweetened or sugar-free flavoring mixes in small or single-serving packages. During the colder months, hot beverages are in great demand. Please do not send glass jars.

• Coffee, coffee mixes, tea
• Hot cocoa mix
• Lemonade mix, Kool-Aid mix, Tang, Iced Tea mix
• Gatorade mix (powdered only)
• Crystal Light (or other brand) "On The Go" flavor packets (these come in a box of several sleeves of flavoring that can be added to a 16-20 oz. water bottle; see photo to the right)
• Sweetener, sugar and creamer packets for coffee

Recreational Items

• Frisbee, Nerf Footballs, Hacky Sack, Tennis Balls
• Deck of cards
• Hand-held games
• Gameboy Advance games
• Movie DVDs (new or used; original only)
• Music CDs (new or used; original only)
• Paperback books, novels (new or used)
• Magazines (new or used, but fairly current)
• Portable DVD Players
• Portable CD Players
• Board Games

Clothing
Color of underclothing and socks is not as important as 100% cotton. Send fingerless gloves and stocking caps during winter months only.

• Cotton socks
• Underwear and T-shirts
• Military-green cotton boot socks (try military surplus stores)
• Sunglasses, goggle-style sunglasses, goggles

Communication Items

• Small cassette player and small cassette tapes
• Disposable cameras
• Envelopes, paper, pens
• Small pads of paper
•  Notebooks (a size they can keep in a pocket and keep dry)
• Drawing pads
• Small, blank journals
• Blank holiday cards (Christmas, Easter, Valentines, Birthday, Anniversary) that they can fill out and send back home to their family and friends
• Personal Supply Items
• Batteries (AA are most requested, then AAA)
• Cigarettes, chew, cigars
• Tactical Duct tape: military green, tan or black
• Electrical tape
• Super glue
• 72" Bootlaces (brown or tan preferred)
• Leatherman All-in-One Tool (see photo)
• Flashlight with a red lens
• Quart-size, 1- and 2-gallon ziploc plastic bags
• Sheets - for those at a base
• Small travel pillow or inflatable pillows
• Disposable, instant hand warmers (during the winter months only)

Foot Care Items
Foot care is critical and the demand for quality products is very high. Be sure that all items are in the original, sealed packages.

• Cotton socks, black, green, or white
• Boot liners/insoles
• Odor eaters for boots
• Lotrimin AF or Tinactin for athletes foot (tubes of ointment or cream, or the bottle of drops; please do not send the aerosol spray type)
• Medicated Foot Powder, Medicated Foot Swabs
• Moleskin (for pads on sore feet, you'll find it with Dr. Scholls type things at Wal-Mart or drug stores)

Personal Care Items
Lip balm is in high demand in desert areas. The lipstick-style tubes that you apply directly to your lips are preferred over the "tub" style. Eye drops are to relieve dry eyes; please avoid sending eye drops designed to remove redness as those will increase dryness and irritation caused by sand and storms in a desert climate.

• Sunblock, Aloe Vera
• Throat Lozenges
• Gum, Lifesavers, Mints
• Eye Drops (to relieve dry eye, not redness)
• Blistex, Chapstick, Carmex (in stick-tubes rather than tubs)
• Aspirin, Motrin, Tylenol, Pain Relievers
• Saline spray/drops for sensitive nasal passages
• Q-tips
• Eyeglass wipes
• Jock itch spray
• Laundry soap tablets

Body Wipes and Hand Sanitizers
When the Soldiers are out in the field, facilities for showering and taking care of personal hygiene are infrequent and in many locations non-existent. Portable-sized packages of non-alcohol based baby wipes are in high demand for these Soldiers.

• Baby wipes for personal hygiene
• Waterless soap
• Liquid body wash
• Liquid hand sanitizers
• Disposable hand sanitizing wipes

Toiletry Items
Toiletries are not in as high a demand as they once were; however, we do have units at forward operating bases that still need the toiletries listed below:

• Toothpaste (in hard-side tubes rather than traditional tubes)
• Toothbrushes
• Nail clippers
• Shampoo
• Deodorant
• Liquid bodywash soap, liquid anti-bacterial soap (liquid is easier to use than bar soap)
• Waterless soap
• Lotion
• Disposable razors
• ShaveMan™ Battery Powered Shaver, Mach3 Razors, and replacement blades
• Kleenex (travel-size packets) 

  Thanks for all your support as we help those who are proudly serving our country!