2013 Toyota RAV4

The 2013 Toyota RAV4 will be the fourth-generation RAV4 since 1994 and is an all-new model redesigned with the latest Toyota styling that’s sure to bring the RAV4 back on top of its class.

Updates

For the first time in the RAV4s history, the new RAV4 has a conventionally top-hinged tailgate (which can be power-operated for the Limited trim), over the awkward side swinging door that used to make it slightly inconvenient to users.

The 2013 RAV4 retains its predecessor's 104.7-inch wheelbase, but it is 2 inches shorter than the outgoing model (179.9 inches) and about an inch lower (65.4 inches). The 2013 Model is slightly wider, offering 72.6 inches of width versus the 2012 model's 71.5. The maximum passenger capacity drops from seven to five due to the third row being eliminated.

Under the Hood

For 2013 Toyota is no longer offering the 268-hp, 3.5-liter V-6 engine used for the previous model.

Instead it opted to bring back the base 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine instead. Expect this engine to produce 176 hp and 172 lb-ft of torque.

Front wheel drive models of the 2013 Toyota RAV4 is able to achieve EPA ratings of 24/31 mpg city/highway, improving on the 22/28 mpg rating for the outgoing model. Meanwhile the all-wheel-drive RAV4 gets 22/29 mpg, a slight improvement over the third-generation model.

Trims

The 2013 RAV4 will be available three trims: LE, XLE, and Limited.

The LE trim will come equipped with 17-inch steel wheels, a six-way manually adjustable driver's seat, power windows, power side mirrors, eight airbags, a rearview camera, Bluetooth, and 60/40 split/folding second-row seats.

Those who opt for the RAV4’s XLE trim get the above features, but also add on 17-inch alloy wheels and bucket seats with side bolstering.

At the top of the 2013 RAV4 lineup, the Limited model will equip your RAV4 with a leather-wrapped steering wheel, bigger 18-inch alloy wheels, a programmable power liftgate, and an eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat.

The RAV4 Limited will also offer heated front seats, as well as memory settings and power lumbar the driver's seat. The 2013 RAV4 Limited also adds on a more modern center console, featuring a standard 6.1-inch touch screen.

Conclusion

While the 2013 Toyota RAV4 faces more competition than ever in the market, we'd say the new model’s redesign will give it a nice edge over competitors.  We expect the RAV4 to maintain its place as a leader in the market.

For full pics of the 2013 RAV4 go to: http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10151203546191044.450045.311116776043&type=3

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2013 Toyota Corolla Vehicle Profile

The Toyota Corolla has always been the top choice for people looking to buy an inexpensive, fuel-efficient and reliable vehicle. For that reason it has sold more than 33 million since it was launched 40 years ago. 

What's New for 2013

 The Toyota Corolla is back for 2013,  receiving a few minor changes that include a revised grille and an upgraded audio system equipped with a touchscreen display for the upper trim levels.

Trims and Options

The 2013 Toyota Corolla comes available in three different trims: L, LE and S trim levels.

The base L model is standard equipped with full power accessories, keyless entry, 15-inch steel wheels, air-conditioning, a height-adjustable driver seat, a 60/40-split-folding rear seat, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, a trip computer and a four-speaker sound system with a CD player and an auxiliary audio jack.

The LE takes the features mentioned above, but take it a step further by adding 16-inch steel wheels, cruise control, heated mirrors, variable intermittent wipers,  steering wheel audio controls, a six-speaker sound system with a 6-inch touchscreen display, iPod/USB connectivity and Bluetooth audio streaming. 

The S trim takes it a step even further by adding a sport-look body kit, a rear spoiler, foglights, upgraded cloth upholstery and metallic interior trim.

The LE and S trims offer an available Premium package that adds a sunroof and upgraded wheels, as well as the Premium interior package for the Corolla LE which adds an eight-way power driver seat, automatic headlights, automatic climate control and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. 

Lastly, the 2013 Toyota Corolla also offers an available touchscreen navigation system equipped with satellite radio, voice control, and smartphone app integration through Toyota's Entune system.

Under the Hood

Every 2013 Toyota Corolla comes equipped with a 1.8-liter inline-4 that produces 132 horsepower and 128 pound-feet of torque. A five-speed manual transmission is standard and a four-speed automatic is optional. EPA-estimated fuel economy is 26 mpg city/34 mpg highway and 29 mpg combined with the automatic transmission and 27/34/30 with the manual.

Interior Design and Special Features

On the inside, the Toyota Corolla's controls are easy to see and simple to use. The seats are soft and comfy, and offer plenty of room for taller drivers, while the backseat also boasts decent room and a cushy bottom. It boasts 12.3 cubic feet of trunk space, average for the class, but the trunk is fit with a wide opening, which is particularly useful if you want to load up your groceries, suitcases, etc.

Safety

Standard safety features for the 2013 Toyota Corolla include front disk and rear drum antilock brakes, stability and traction control, front side airbags and side curtain airbags. 

In government crash tests, the Corolla received an overall score of four out of five stars, with four stars for overall frontal-impact safety and five stars for overall side-impact safety. In Insurance Institute for Highway Safety crash testing, the Corolla earned a top score of "Good" in the frontal-offset, side and roof strength tests.

Toyota Debuts New Furia Concept at 2013 North American International Auto Show

Last week, during the 2013 North American International Auto Show in Detroit, Toyota revealed a very intriguing concept called the Toyota Furia.

The exciting news to come out of this compact sedan concept is that it hints at the styling cues consumers can expect to see on the next-generation Corolla. The Furia concept came to be as a result of an exterior styling study by Toyota designers. It looks to build on the brand's product development priority to develop more dramatic and vividly designed vehicles.

When asked about the Toyota Corolla Furia concept, Bill Fay, Toyota Motor Groups vice president and general manager of the Toyota Division said: "The Corolla Furia Concept is an early indicator of where our compact car design may lead in the future…It blends a heightened emphasis on dramatic design and modern elements of high technology to generate curb appeal that will surprise a lot of people."

One look at this new design and you can definitely see the changes from the current Corolla model. The new Toyota Corolla Furia design includes a swept windshield, a sloped roofline and more prominent fender flares. It has an aggressively styled front fascia, with a blacked-out grille treatment that highlights a pair of sculpted front LED headlamps (and rear composite LED taillights) that add a sense of advanced technology to the Furia's exterior. The Corolla Furia Concept's wheel wells are equipped with Carbon fiber accents, rocker panels, and rear valance, which includes ornate metal exhaust outlet surrounds to add a sense of modern athleticism.

Toyota says that the Furia concept is designed around a theme of "Iconic Dynamism," which uses pure and simple surface elements to create a very distinct and stylish appearance in order to appeal to more youthful consumers. The Furia is Toyota’s edgier interpretation of a usually conservative compact sedan that displays a more stable, athletic stance with 19-inch allow wheels pushed to the vehicle's corners to help emphasize its long wheelbase.

Toyota Corolla Furia Concept Specs

Overall Length 4620 mm/ 181.9 inches

Overall Width 1805 mm / 71 inches

Overall Height 1425 mm / 56.1 inches

Wheelbase 2700 mm/ 106.3 inches

Wheels 19-inch aluminum alloy

What do YOU think?

The Furia concept definitely would add some “pizzazz” to the Corolla model, but what do you think? Is it too much for the Corolla’s generally conservative users or is it just what the car needs? 

Vehicle Profile: 2013 Toyota Venza

The Toyota Venza is back for 2013! This crossover was created to provide SUV capability with luxury car refinement. It delivers the perfect combination of performance, luxury, versatility and bold design.

What’s New?

For 2013, the already stylish Venza sports a refreshed front fascia with foglamps, new upper and lower grilles, and new taillamps. A new 19-inch wheel design and three new exterior colors – Attitude Black, Cypress Pearl and Cosmic Gray Mica – round out the visual changes.

Trims

The 2013 Toyota Venza (MSRP $27,700) is available in 3 different trims: LE, XLE and Limited.

The LE comes equipped with a Display Audio system with 6.1-inch touch-screen, Bluetooth® wireless technology and dual-zone climate control. An available Convenience Package adds a power liftgate and rear back-up camera. There is also a Preferred Package, which gives the Venza LE a panoramic glass roof and adds navigation and Entune® to the Display Audio system.

The Venza XLE offers a little more luxury with the addition of a leather-trimmed steering wheel, seats and shift knob, multi-stage heated front seats and the Display Audio system complete with Entune and navigation as standard equipment. An anti-theft system with alarm, the Smart Key System with Push-Button Start and the power liftgate with back-up camera are also standard on the XLE. The only option package available for the XLE is the Premium Package, which adds the panoramic glass roof and a JBL® audio system with 13 JBL Synthesis speakers including subwoofer.

The top Limited trim comes standard with the panoramic glass roof, Premium HDD Navigation with Entune and the JBL speaker system, and adds High-Intensity Discharge (HID) headlamps with LED daytime running lights.

All Venza trims are available with a choice of front-wheel drive (FWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD), and all models come equipped with a six-speed automatic transmission. LE and XLE models offer your choice of a 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 181 hp or a 3.5-liter V6 that puts out 268 hp. The Venza Limited is available exclusively with the V6.

Performance

Fuel economy for the FWD four-cylinder Venza is EPA-estimated at 21 mpg city/27 mpg highway, with the AWD model coming in at 20 mpg city and 25 mpg highway. V6 models return 19 mpg city/26 mpg highway for FWD and 18/25 for AWD.

For those of you looking to lug some stuff around, the 2013 Venza offers an optional Tow Prep Package for V6-equipped models, which provides a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 pounds. That is nearly the full weight of the Venza itself.

Safety

The 2013 Toyota Venza is equipped with Toyota’s Star Safety System™ which includes safety features such as Traction Control (TRAC) and Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) combined with advanced airbags. Antilock brakes (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA) and Smart Stop brake override technology (SST) are also included in the Star Safety System.

Conclusion

The 2013 Toyota Venza received substantial improvements in entertainment and connectivity from its predecessor, while remaining a comfortable, practical, and stylish pick for those who are not looking for a super rugged SUV.

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Vehicle Profile: 2013 Toyota 4Runner

The Toyota 4Runner is back for 2013!

This bad boy has the ability to seat up to seven and is offered in three available trims: the all around well-equipped SR5, the off-road-capable Trail and the luxury minded Limited.

Under the Hood

Every trim comes standard equipped with a 270-hp 4.0-liter V6 paired with a five-speed Electronically Controlled automatic Transmission with intelligence (ECT-i).

Drivetrain options for all 2013 models include rear-wheel drive (4x2), part-time four-wheel drive (4x4) and full-time multi-mode 4x4 with locking center differential. Fuel economy for the 4Runner has been EPA-estimated at 17 mpg city/22 mpg for 4x2 models, and 17 mpg city/21 mpg highway for 4x4s. New for 2013, the SR5 features a switch control for the transfer case, in place of a lever.

Trim Features

Limited trim models of the 2013 Toyota 4Runner come standard with an X-REAS suspension system that automatically adjusts to changing surfaces. The system also features a center control absorber that links the 4Runners shocks at opposite corners to reduce yaw and pitch (which would cause the vehicle to move side to side or dip forward otherwise). The benefit of the X-REAS system is that it makes the 4Runner Limited corner flatter and handle more predictably across uneven surfaces.

The 4x4 SR5 and Trail trims feature the two-speed, part-time four-wheel drive system with a neutral position, while the Limited comes with the full-time 4x4 system with the locking center differential.

The A-TRAC traction control system is standard on all 4x4 models and can send power to any one wheel in contact with the ground, making sure that power is not wasted on tires with little or no traction. Downhill Assist Control (DAC) and Hill-start Assist Control (HAC) are also standard systems on all 4x4-equipped 4Runner trims.

2013 4Runner buyers who opt for the Trail trim will have the option to upgrade to Toyota’s Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (KDSS), which is an optional upgrade that allows the 4Runner to dynamically disconnect its stabilizer bars for greater suspension travel, making the 4Runner better able to negotiate difficult terrain. Also for the Trail trim is standard equipped Crawl Control (CRAWL) which acts as a low-speed throttle control, making it easier for drivers to focus on steering through rough terrain. Lastly, the Trail trim is standard equipped with a Multi-Terrain Select system which lets the driver select differing levels of wheel slip to match terrain conditions.

The Limited trim for the 2013 Toyota 4Runner brings high levels of luxury equipment as standard features for your 4Runner including: Leather seats, a standard Audio Display system equipped with navigation and Entune^®, and dual-zone climate control. There is an available JBL^® premium sound system with 15 speakers for owners who desire more audio power.

To make the 4Runner more versatile, an available third-row seat provides seven-passenger capacity, and an available pull-out cargo deck allows you to more easily load cargo. No need to worry about how much your groceries weigh either, as the shelf can support up to 440 pounds.

Safety Features

The 2013 Toyota 4Runner is equipped with the Toyota Star Safety System^™, which includes Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) with traction control and Antilock Brakes (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) Brake Assist (BA) and Smart Stop Technology (SST).

To make sure the car protecting you is also protected, the 2013 4Runner comes with a five-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty. The 4Runner also comes standard with Toyota Care^®, which covers normal factory-scheduled maintenance and provides 24-hour roadside assistance for two years or 25,000 miles.

Conclusion

The 2013 Toyota 4Runner offers a little bit for everybody. Whether you want a rugged, a luxury or a well rounded SUV, the Toyota 4Runner will certainly be a crowd please. MSRP for 2013 Toyota 4Runner starts at $31,340.

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2013 Toyota RAV4 Revealed

Redesigned RAV4 Debuts at Los Angeles Auto Show

Toyota gave us a tease last week, letting us know that the 2013 RAV4 was coming better than ever. The company made good on its promise last week at the Los Angeles auto show, when the company officially unveiled the redesigned soft roader.

The 2013 RAV4 will be the fourth-generation RAV4 since 1994 and is an all-new model redesigned with the latest Toyota styling, in order to bring the RAV4 back on top of its class.

2013 RAV4

Under the hood, Toyota is no longer offering the 268-hp, 3.5-liter V-6 engine, opting to bring back the base 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine instead. Expect this engine to produce 176 hp and 172 lb-ft of torque.

Front wheel drive models of 2013 RAV4 are expected to receive EPA ratings of 24/31 mpg city/highway, improving on the 22/28 mpg rating for the outgoing model. Expect the all-wheel-drive RAV4s to achieve 22/29 mpg, a slight improvement over the third-generation model.

Trims

The 2013 RAV4 will be available three trims: LE, XLE, and Limited.

The LE trim will come equipped with 17-inch steel wheels, a six-way manually adjustable driver's seat, power windows, power side mirrors, eight airbags, a rearview camera, Bluetooth, and 60/40 split/folding second-row seats.

Those who opt for the RAV4’s XLE trim will add on 17-inch alloy wheels and bucket seats with side bolstering.

At the top of the 2013 RAV4 lineup is the Limited model, which will equip the vehicle with bigger 18-inch alloy wheels, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, a programmable power liftgate (for added convenience at the store), and an eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat. The RAV4 Limited will also offer heated front seats, and the driver's seat has memory settings and power lumbar. The 2013 RAV4 Limited also adds on a more modern center console, featuring a standard 6.1-inch touch screen.

Updates

In a break with tradition, the new RAV4 has a conventionally top-hinged tailgate for the first time (which can now be power-operated for the Limited trim), over the awkward side swinging door that used to make it slightly inconvenient to users.

The 2013 RAV4 retains its predecessor's 104.7-inch wheelbase, but it is 2 inches shorter than the outgoing model (179.9 inches) and about an inch lower (65.4 inches). The 2013 Model is slightly wider, offering 72.6 inches of width versus the 2012 model's 71.5. The maximum passenger capacity drops from seven to five via the elimination of the third row.

Conclusion

Since it was launched 18 years ago, Toyota has sold more than 4.5 million RAV4's in 150 countries.

While the 2013 Toyota RAV4 faces more competition than ever in the market, we'd say the new model’s redesign will give it a nice edge over competitors.  We expect the RAV4 to maintain its place as a leader in the market.

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Vehicle Profile: 2013 Toyota Tacoma

Luxurious and Tough to Match 

The Toyota Tacoma is back for 2013 adding new enhancements for this model year. The new upgrades for the 2013 Toyota Tacoma look to increase the refinement of the vehicle. Look for the Tacoma to also sport a refreshed look for added visual appeal.

What’s New?

The new upgrades for 2013 help to add new levels of comfort to the interior , thanks to the Tacoma’s new Limited Package, which adds some improved interior features like SofTex^®-trimmed heated seats, a leather-trimmed steering wheel with audio controls, a Display Audio System with Entune^™ and an auto-dimming rear-view mirror with a rear camera display.

The exterior updates for the Tacoma under the Limited Package include 18-inch chrome wheels, a chrome grille surround and fog lamps, while adding a chrome rear bumper, exterior mirrors and door handles.

What Stayed?

Some features from the Tacoma’s predecessor carried over from last year, including the many customization options.

The Toyota Tacoma offers three cab sizes, two engine choices, available 4WD and multiple performance packages, making this a very customizable vehicle depending on your needs. The 2013 Tacoma’s engine choices include a 159-hp 2.7-liter four-cylinder that can be mated to a five-speed manual or a four-speed automatic transmission. The 4.0-liter V6 produces 236 hp and comes paired with a six-speed manual transmission or a five-speed automatic.

Cabin options for the 2013 Toyota Tacoma include: a Regular Cab, Access Cab and Double Cab.

The Regular Cab and Access Cab models come standard with a 73.5-inch bed, while the Double Cab gets a shorter, 60.3-inch bed standard, though it does offer the longer bed as an option. Mileage estimates range from an EPA-estimated 21 mpg city/25 mpg highway for the Regular Cab 2.7-liter with the five-speed manual, to 16 mpg city/21 mpg highway for the 4.0-liter V6 4x4 Double Cab long bed with the five-speed automatic.

The 2013 Tacoma 4x2 Regular Cab features a Display Audio stereo with a 6.1-inch touch-screen, Bluetooth^® and USB capability. All Access Cab and Double Cab models get added features like power windows and locks. The Double Cab V6 models feature a more advanced version of the Display Audio system with seven JBL GreenEdge Synthesis speakers including a subwoofer.

Off Road and Safety

Looking to take this bad boy off into the dirt? Then you are looking for a little more capability than the standard 4x4 provides. If you are one of those drivers, Toyota offers the TRD Off-Road Package for V6 automatic models. The package includes Hill-start Assist Control (HAC), Downhill Assist Control (DAC) and a switch-activated locking rear differential. HAC controls the brakes on each wheel independently to stop the Tacoma from rolling backwards or sliding sideways when climbing a grade from a stop. DAC works by using engine braking and brake control to regulate downhill speeds.

The Tacoma, like all Toyota vehicles, features the Star Safety System^™, which includes Vehicle Stability Control, Traction Control, an Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Brake-force Distribution, Brake Assist, and Smart Stop brake override technology. Each Tacoma also comes equipped with six airbags. To keep your Tacoma in optimal running condition, the standard Toyota Care covers all scheduled maintenance for two-years/25,000 miles. Free 24-hour roadside assistance is also included with Toyota Care.

The 2013 Tacoma’s refreshed look and luxury features give it an overall nicer feel, while at the same time maintaining all of the power and favorite features from the previous models.

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Toyota Motors Develops New Collision Avoidance Assist System

System Effective in More Than 90% of Speed Ranges in Rear-end Collisions

Toyota City, Japan— You are on your commute home from work when you suddenly rear end a driver. In the words of Homer Simpson, Doh!

Research has shown that speeds between 40 km/h to 60 km/h during the time of a rear-end collision is the range in which most fatal and injury-causing accidents increase. In response to this, Two days ago, Toyota Motor Corporation (TMC) announced it had developed a Pre-collision System (PCS) with collision avoidance assist that is effective in helping mitigate even high-speed collisions.

The newly developed PCS uses a millimeter-wave radar to detect the risk of a rear-end collision with a vehicle ahead of you. The system works by sending a system warning to the driver via sound and display alerts advising the driver to brake when such a risk is detected.  When the driver applies the brakes, PCS enables deceleration of up to 60 km/h by increasing the vehicle’s braking force up to twice the force of what an  that of the average driver. 

One cool feature to this PCS system is that even If the brakes are not applied, automatic deceleration is possible at speed of 15 km/h to approximately 30 km/h.

Toyota’s research found that more than 90 percent of rear-end collisions occur when the difference in speed between the preceding and following vehicle is within 60 km/h, thus aiming to produce a brake assist system based on real-world collision data. Toyota’s new PCS will be able to achieve rear-end-collision reducing-effects at the highest level in the industry. 

On top of releasing this PCS system and in order to help eliminate fatal traffic accidents, Toyota Motors is also conducting research and development on individual onboard safety devices and systems based on its Integrated Safety Management Concept.

Toyota’s Integrated Safety Management Concept is TMC’s approach to safety that links each individual safety technology system equipped on vehicles together to increase overall vehicle safety.  Toyota Motors has been hard at work developing safer vehicles and technologies, as well as increasing its traffic-safety initiatives by participating in the development of traffic environments and participating in educational traffic-safety activities for drivers.

The new PCS was developed to be used in a wide variety of models, and is expected to be rolled out starting with soon-to-be-launched 2013 models.

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Vehicle Profile: 2013 Toyota Avalon

Avalon redesign aims to bring it back to the top of the class

It all began this year when Toyota began hinting plans to reveal a new vehicle at the New York Auto Show (Read at: http://newtoyotanews.blogspot.com/2012/03/toyota-to-debut-new-sedan.html). After much hoopla, Toyota revealed that the new sedan would come in the form of a new and improved version of the 2013 Toyota Avalon. The redesigned Avalon raised the bar on its predecessors with new styling and the introduction of the first full-hybrid in the segment.

What’s New?

So what’s new with the 2013 Avalon? Simply put, the new 2013 Toyota Avalon is shorter, lower, and less wide than previous models, and it features a brand new design created here in America, and featuring a smooth, sleek shape with muscular lines as well as a sporting profile. In addition to being designed in the U.S., the new Avalon is also assembled in the USA, at the Toyota Manufacturing Plant in Georgetown, Kentucky.

 Under the Hood

Under the hood, the standard Avalon has seen enhanced capability and fuel economy. Toyota’s go to engine, the 3.5-liter V6, now comes matched to a more responsive, and efficient, six-speed automatic transaxle. This all-aluminum engine is able to produce 268 HP, which allows the Avalon to go from 0 to 60 mph in less than seven seconds.

The 2013 model also sees the addition of three driver-selectable powertrain modes: “ECO,” “NORMAL” and “SPORT”.

In SPORT mode, the new Avalon sees an increase in its acceleration response, as well as enhanced steering feel. ECO mode maximizes the Avalon’s fuel efficiency by altering its throttle response and reducing the energy used by the air-condition system, allowing the Avalon to achieve an impressive 31 mpg highway estimate from the EPA. The 2013 Toyota Avalon has a city fuel efficiency rating of 21 mpg.

Looking to save money on the pump?

Looking for the best possible fuel economy? Then the all-new, segment-first full-hybrid Avalon is the way to go. Award-winning Toyota Hybrid Synergy Drive combines with the Avalon Hybrid’s reduced weight and more aerodynamic shape to deliver an EPA-estimated 39 mpg highway and 40 mpg city. The Avalon Hybrid features a 2.5-liter four-cylinder paired with a nickel-metal hydride battery pack. There is also a pair of electric motor/generators within the transaxle. 

The system has a total power output of 200 hp and has three separate driving modes: “EV,” “ECO” and “SPORT.” 

EV mode allows the Avalon to travel on pure electric energy for up to one mile at speeds up to 25 mph. This is especially useful for traveling through parking lots and residential areas. ECO mode uses the gasoline motor, but adjusts throttle response and climate control to help improve fuel economy. Sport mode, designed to take advantage of the dynamic characteristics of the Avalon, alters engine throttle and enhances steering feel.

 Safety

The Avalon comes with the Toyota Star Safety System™ and is standard equipped with Toyota Care. The Star Safety System includes a very impressive array of safety features including: Traction Control and Vehicle Stability Control combined with advanced airbags. Anti-lock brakes, Electronic Brake-force Distribution, Brake Assist and Smart Stop brake override technology are also included in the Star Safety System. While Star Safety protects you, the Toyota Care complimentary maintenance program provides free factory scheduled maintenance for two years or 25,000 miles.

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2013 Toyota Sequoia

The 2013 Toyota Sequoia is back for 2013 and it sounds like its going to be meaner than ever. Big news for the Sequoia for 2013 is that it will now discontinue its 4.6 liter V-8 engine from the available lineup.

Because of the discontinuation of the 4.6-liter V-8 from the lineup 2013, the Toyota Sequoia will now offer one engine for all the trims.

Out with the old

For those of you wondering, the 4.6-liter V-8 was the Sequoia’s base engine. It was able to produce 310 hp and 327 lb-ft of torque and can still be seen in the Toyota Tundra.

The incoming 5.7-liter engine, on the other hand, is rated at 381 hp and 401 lb-ft, and comes mated to a six-speed automatic transmission, as well as a very impressive towing capacity of 7400 pounds.

The 2013 Toyota Sequoia has been EPA rated at 13/18 mpg city/highway for the rear-wheel drive model and 13/17 mpg for the four-wheel drive. The more powerful engine hasn’t reduced the Sequoia’s fuel efficiency that much as the outgoing 4.6-liter was rated 14/20 and 13/18 mpg in two-wheel and four-wheel-drive trims, respectively.

In with the new

For the 2013 model year the Toyota Sequoia will also come equipped with a few new technical features. For example, the 2013 Sequoia will now offer a Blu-Ray rear seat entertainment system, making it Toyota’s first model to do so. Additionally, drivers can now maneuver the large SUV between lanes more safely thanks to an new available blind spot monitoring system.

Trims

The 2013 Toyota Sequoia is still offered in three trim levels: SR5, Limited, and Platinum.

The Platinum model, the top trim for the 2013 Sequoia, comes standard equipped with many impressive features including a navigation system, adaptive cruise control, a rear load-leveling air suspension, heated seats for second row passengers, and a very impressive premium 14-speaker sound system.

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2013 Toyota Matrix

Vehicle Overview

The 2013 Toyota Matrix is a compact hatchback that offers plenty of cargo room. It is offered in either a base trim or an S trim.

For 2013, the base model of the Toyota Matrix gets an upgraded CD player equipped with Bluetooth audio streaming, satellite radio and iPod connectivity. Those who opt for the S model will get an upgraded a stereo equipped with a 6.1-inch touch-screen.

Exterior and Features

The Matrix offers a modern look thanks to a bold looking front end that features thin wraparound headlights and a small grille. Overall the Matrix offers a very modern look combined with the sportiness that is brought by the vehicle’s hatchback.

Those that opt for the S trim can have their Matrix equipped with an optional Sport Package. This package beefs up the matrix by giving it 17-inch alloy wheels, front and rear underbody spoilers and a rear spoiler. Exterior features include: Daytime running lights, Heated power mirrors as well as available, moon roof fog lamps and your choice between 16- or 17-inch wheels

Interior

The 2013 Toyota Matrix fits up to 5 people, thanks to its front sport seats and a three-person rear 60/40-split bench seat. If you need extra cargo room, the backseat can fold down to add space. Interior features include: Front passenger seat folds down (S models), cruise control, power windows and locks, as well as available metallic interior accents

Under the Hood and Safety Features

Base models of the 2013 Toyota Matrix will come powered by a 1.8-liter four-cylinder mated either to a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission, but also offers a 2.4-liter four-cylinder with 158-hp and 162 pounds-feet of torque (Standard on The S model) which is teamed to either a five-speed manual or five-speed automatic transmission.

Every model of the 2013 Matrix is front-wheel drive, minus for the all-wheel-drive S trim, which comes specially equipped with a four-speed automatic. The base and front-wheel-drive S models come with a basic rear torsion beam suspension, while the all-wheel-drive S model gets a rear double-wishbone suspension.

Standard safety features on all 2013 Toyota Matrix models include Front side-impact airbags, Side curtain airbags, Active front head restraints, Antilock brakes Traction control, Electronic stability system.

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2013 Toyota FJ Cruiser

The 2013 Toyota FJ Cruiser is back with minimal changes for the new model year.

This year the FJ cruiser will see a new available color scheme for the Trail Teams Special Edition. Other changes include standard power outside mirrors with illuminated markers and a new Magma Red exterior color.

But the highlight for the new year is the Trail Teams Special Edition Package, which incorporates a standard Off-Road Package and features a new color, Cement Grey, replacing Radiant Red. The exterior gets a sportier look with black bumpers, front grille, and door handles, while the interior gets matching Cement Grey accents on the door trim, steering wheel, and fabric seat inserts.

Under the hood, the FJ Cruiser comes equipped with a cyclone pre-air cleaner designed to trap sand and dirt. Those who opt for the Trail Teams package will have give their FJ Cruiser better chassis performance thanks to trail-tuned Bilstein shock absorbers, a rear differential lock with Active Traction Control system, fuel tank, and transfer cases, skid plates, and rock rails, while the exterior gets 16-inch Toyota Racing Development (TRD) wheels mated to 265/75ZR16 All-Terrain tires from BF Goodrich.

The FJ Cruiser can be configured as 4×2 or 4×4 and will be powered by a 4.0-liter V6 engine able to produce 260-hp and 272 lb-ft of torque. Interior technology includes USB Port, iPod connectivity, and XM Satellite Radio Capability.

The 2013 FJ Cruise also offers a Convenience Package which adds cruise control, daytime running lights, a rear window wiper, and a spare tire cover, plus a rear backup camera--really a necessity if you plan to drive the FJ around town, or parallel-park.

Optional for the FJ Cruiser to increase towing capacity is a Class Four hitch receiver, making the vehicle capable of towing up to 5,000 lbs.

If you are looking to combine trail ability with fresh styling, then go for the Trail Teams Special Edition Package. It includes most of the above named extras plus body color-matched interior highlights, off-road lights, an aluminum shift knob and aluminum scuff plates. Lastly for 2013, the Trail Teams Package is newly offered in Cement Gray.

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Highlander,Tacoma and Tundra See Changes For 2013

For the 2013 model year Toyota has updated its truck and SUV line with trim and equipment upgrades. This year the Tacoma, Tundra each add a new trim level, with the Tundra receiving a new off-road oriented off-road trim. The 2013 Highlander Hybrid also sees some technology upgrades.

2013 Toyota Highlander Hybrid Changes

 

For 2013 every Highlander Hybrid models will come equipped with the Display Audio head unit with standard navigation and Entune. The hybrid models interior will also see an upgrade as it comes equipped with a Leather Premium Package instead of last year’s Leather Package. Every 2013 Highlander hybrid will include leather-trimmed heated seats, HomeLink, a power tilt/slide moonroof, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, and a leather-trimmed steering wheel.

For 2013 the Highlander Hybrid Limited model also adds rear automatic climate control, perforated leather seating surfaces, as well as a JBL Premium Audio system.

2013 Toyota Tacoma Changes

The 2013 Toyota Tacoma will add a new Limited package which adds a four-way adjustable driver’s seat, SofTex-trimmed heated front seats, variable-speed windshield wipers, metallic instrument panel trim, leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio controls, an auto-dimming rear-view mirror with rear camera display, exterior temperature gauge, and a Homelink universal transceiver.

2013 Toyota Tundra Changes

 

For 2013 the Tundra is back with the addition of a Platinum trim and a TRD Rock Warrior Special Edition package for 4×4 models. The Platinum trim, formerly a package on the Limited model, is now a stand-alone trim level.

The plush package includes a wood grain interior trim.and furnishes it with heated and ventilated front bucket seats, leather seating surfaces, a memory package, which includes two-position driver’s seat, exterior mirrors and steering wheel position memory, auto-dimming power-folding outside mirrors with turn signal indicators, navigation and a power tilt/slide moon-roof.

The TRD Rock Warrior package, for those that want a rougher truck, features Bilstein shock absorbers, Rock Warrior exterior graphic, 17-inch forged alloy wheels with LT285/70 R17 BF Goodrich T/A tires, fog lamps, privacy glass, an eight-way driver and four-way passenger adjustable black cloth bucket seats, and an auto-dimming rearview mirror with backup display and HomeLink.

The Rock Warrior package is also available on the Limited trim level, which includes all the comfort and convenience features of the premium trim with a more aggressive look

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