2013 Toyota Highlander

Vehicle Overview

Offered in front- and all-wheel-drive form, the Toyota Highlander crossover returns for the 2013 model year with a four-cylinder or V-6 engine. The Toyota Highlander offers three rows for seating and can seat up to seven people comfortably.

Additions for 2013

For the 2013 model year the Toyota Highlander will now offer a new Plus trim level. This trim has all of the base Highlander's features as well as lift-up rear glass window, fog lights, a backup camera, black roof rails, easy-clean fabric upholstery and a Display Audio system. 

Exterior

The exterior to the 2013 Toyota Highlander offers Chrome accents on the rocker panels, as well as 17-inch alloy wheels for the base and SE trims. The Limited trim level adds chrome roof rails on the Highlander, as well as 19-inch wheels.

Exterior features for the 2013 Highlander include standard variable intermittent windshield wipers, as well as an Optional moon roof and power lift gate.

Interior

The inside of the 2013 Toyota Highlander comes with a standard third-row seat that is able to fold into the floor in a 50/50 split. The second-row bench features a removable center seat that is packed in a compartment below the front-seat center console converting the second row into two individual seats with a center aisle or removable a center console. Both seats can recline and are adjustable forward and back. The passenger-side seat has a walk-in feature to allow easier access to the Highlander’s third-row.

Other interior features include: a Standard tilt/telescoping steering wheel, an optional three-zone automatic air conditioning, Standard fabric upholstery ( with leather optional), Standard CD stereo with MP3 jack, an Optional rear entertainment system and an Optional touch-screen navigation system

With the second and third rows folded down the Highlander is able to hold 95.4 cubic feet of maximum cargo volume.

Under the Hood

Under the hood, the 2013 Toyota Highlander is standard equipped with a 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine, with the option for 3.5-liter V-6. Four-cylinder models come with front-wheel drive, while V-6 engine gives drivers the choice between front- or all-wheel drive. The four-cylinder engine is able to produce 187 horsepower and 186 pounds-feet of torque, while the V-6 engine makes 270 hp and 248 pounds-feet of torque

Safety

Standard safety features for the 2013 Toyota Highlander include: side curtain, side impact and driver’s knee airbags, Antilock brakes, an Electronic stability system and Active front head restraints.

The 2013 Toyota Highlander will also be available as a hybrid. More details on the hybrid coming soon!

Like what you read? Then follow us on twitter at @jerrystoyota and @JerrysItsAboutU for updates on all of our blogs, videos and vehicle comparisons.

Want more Toyota? like us on Facebook at http://facebook.com/jerrystoyota

Vehicle Preview: 2013 Toyota Camry

Intro

The Toyota Camry is one of the best-selling vehicles in the Toyota lineup. For the 2013 model year the Toyota Camry will see a few redesigns, offering several upgrades in the look, interior and features. As always the 2013 Camry will provide consumers with a roomy and comfortable interior and a great set of features.

Under the Hood.

The 2013 Toyota Camry will offer two versions of the gas-electric Camry Hybrid. Both Hybrid engines on the 2013 Toyota Camry will be mated to a 6 speed automatic transmission that will also allow manual type gear control via a floor shift lever.

The new 2013 Toyota Camry is available in four trim levels L, LE, SE and XLE

The all-new 2013 Toyota Camry will offer two available engines. The first is a 2.5-liter 4 cylinder engine that is able to produce 178 horsepower and 170 pound-feet of torque. The 4 cylinder engine gets an EPA-estimated 25 mpg city/35 hwy/28 combined. The second choice is a 3.5-liter V6 engine that is likely to remain at 268 horsepower and 248 pound-feet of torque. Expect the V-6 to be available for the 2013 Camry SE and XLE models in place of the four-cylinder. Fuel economy for the V6 engine is an impressive 21/30/25

The 2013 Toyota Camry offers 16-inch diameter wheels on the L and LE models, 17-inch on XLE versions and on four-cylinder SE models, and 18-inch on V-6 SEs.

Features and Safety

Features on the 2013 Toyota Camry includes a new upgraded Web-based Entune system which features an integrated smartphone suite for Pandora music streaming, search engine services Bing, radio streaming and real-time traffic. The 2013 Camry also comes equipped with Bluetooth, and iPod/USB input.

Standard safety features include ABS brakes with stability and traction control, blind-spot monitoring system, brake assist, and ten standard airbags (including front and rear seat side airbags as well as full length curtain side airbags and knee airbags for both driver and passenger). 

Prices on the 2013 Toyota Camry will range from $ 22,055 to $ 24,775.

Like what you read? Then follow us on twitter at @jerrystoyota and @JerrysItsAboutU for updates on all of our blogs, videos and vehicle comparisons.

Want more Toyota? like us on Facebook at http://facebook.com/jerrystoyota

Vehicle Preview: 2013 Toyota Prius V

The 2013 Toyota Prius V is back this year, and fans will be pleased to know that it shouldn’t see many changes from its 2012 predecessor. The beauty of the 2013 Prius V is that it has a similar basic design and powertrain used in the current Toyota Prius, yet takes it one step further by making it bigger and more cargo friendly.

The 2013 Prius V will be available in three models: Two, Three, and Five.

Those who buy the Five model will have the option for an Advanced Technology Package that adds on the following features: an upgraded navigation system, a panoramic sunroof, parking assist, Toyota's adaptive cruise control, Pre-Collision system, and the Entune infotainment system.

The 2013 Prius V is powered by 1.8-liter gasoline engine combined to a battery-powered electric motor that pushes out 134 combined horsepower. Just like the original Prius, the 2013 Prius V is able to run on one or both of its power sources, providing drivers with a balance between acceleration and fuel economy.

No plug-in charging station is required for the 2013 Prius V. It is stocked with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) that makes the car perform like an automatic.

Safety features on all 2013 Prius V include traction control, ABS, an antiskid system, curtain-side airbags, and front-side airbags. As always, every Toyota comes with Toyota’s Complimentary Maintenance Plan, Toyota Care.

The 2013 Prius V will be one of the first Toyota vehicles to use its new Entune multimedia system.

Toyota’s Entune multimedia system works with your smartphone to provide Prius drivers and passengers with Internet-search capability. Need to find information on your favorite restaurant or check movie times? Just check your Entune. Need to check out the score to the game? Just check out your Entune! The Entune system is even capable of reading text messages aloud, allowing drivers to focus on the road.

The 2013 Prius V comes standard with keyless access and engine start. It also offers an optional panoramic sunroof.

Keep checking back for a more detailed review of the 2013 Prius V. Once we get our hands on one you’ll be the first to know!

Like what you read? Then follow us on twitter at @jerrystoyota and @JerrysItsAboutU for updates on all of our blogs, videos and vehicle comparisons.

Want more Toyota? like us on Facebook at http://facebook.com/jerrystoyota

Vehicle Preview: 2013 Toyota RAV4

 

The Toyota RAV4 has remained one of our favorite small SUV’s in the market. Its responsiveness and roomie interior makes it one of our usual top choices to bring to our events. For the 2013 model year Toyota announced a complete redesign for the RAV4, and we cannot wait to have one in our hands.

So what can you expect from the 2013 Toyota RAV4?

We don't expect it to grow much in size or look radically different. The Toyota RAV4 seems to have found the perfect balance of size and maneuverability, and after all if the shoe fits wear it, right?

For the 2013 Model year expect to see sharper creases and some chunky styling cues from the FJ Cruiser and Toyota's trucks. Under the hood, expect to RAV4 to come equipped with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder and 3.5-liter V6 engines as a carry-over from last year. The current 2.5-liter returns 28 mpg on the highway, so look for the new four-cylinder to reach towards the 30 highway mpg line.

While we have heard rumblings of a hybrid RAV4 at some point, one confirmed report is that for the 2013 model year we will see the return of the RAV4 EV.

The RAV4 EV is powered by batteries and some powertrain components from Tesla Motors. Expect the second-generation RAV4 EV to see a range of about 100 miles. The last RAV4 EV was released in 2004.

The 2013 Toyota RAV4 EV will go on sale late this year however the non-electric RAV4 is coming soon. Keep checking back for a full review of the 2013 Toyota RAV4, including specs, driving impressions and car battles as it becomes available.

Like what you read? Then follow us on twitter at @jerrystoyota and @JerrysItsAboutU for updates on all of our blogs, videos and vehicle comparisons.

Want more Toyota? like us on Facebook at http://facebook.com/jerrystoyota

Toyota Camry Tops Cars.com Most American Cars List

Cars.com voted on the top 10 Most American of all vehicles and once again, the Toyota Camry has been picked as the most American of all cars. The choice was made due to the Camry having more U.S. sourced parts, U.S. production and higher U.S. sales.

This marks the fourth-straight year that the Toyota Camry has topped the "American-made" survey. This year, the Ford F-150 came at a close second but in the end, Toyota, Honda and General Motors took eight of the 10 spots on the list.

"When people think about buying an 'American' car, they might just think automatically of the Detroit Three," said Patrick Olsen, editor in chief at Cars.com. "In reality, this classification isn't as cut and dry as it used to be."

So without further ado here are the 10 most American vehicles and where they're made as voted by Cars.com:

1. Toyota Camry, Georgetown, Ky., and Lafayette, Ind.
2. Ford F-150, Dearborn, Mich., and Claycomo, Mo.
3. Honda Accord, Marysville, Ohio
4. Toyota Sienna, Princeton, Ind.
5. Honda Pilot, Lincoln, Ala.
6. Chevrolet Traverse, Lansing, Mich.
7. Toyota Tundra, San Antonio
8. Jeep Liberty, Toledo, Ohio
9. GMC Acadia, Lansing
10. Buick Enclave, Lansing

What do you think of this list? Let us know!

Like what you read? Then follow us on twitter at @jerrystoyota and @JerrysItsAboutU for updates on all of our blogs, videos and vehicle comparisons.

Want more Toyota? like us on Facebook at http://facebook.com/jerrystoyota

2013 Toyota Avalon Confirms Hybrid

When we reported the unveiling of the 2013 Toyota Avalon in April (Check it out at http://newtoyotanews.blogspot.com/2012/04/2013-toyota-debuts-new-avalon-at-new.html), Toyota had not revealed powertrain details for it, leading many to speculate the original 268 hp 3.5 liter V-6 engine would carry over. There were also rumblings of the possibility of a Hybrid engine being in the works.

Well ladies and gentlemen; we can now report that Toyota has confirmed a hybrid version of the 2013 Avalon is scheduled for production, coming in the form of a 154-hp, 153-lb-ft 2.5-liter Atkinson Cycle I-4 engine, capable of making the 2013 Avalon able to reach 140 hp and 200 lb-ft of torque combined.

The 2013 Toyota Avalon Hybrid’s fuel economy is EPA rated to reach 39/40 mpg city/highway and 40 mpg combined. The regular 3.5-liter V-6 engine gets 21/31 mpg city/highway and 25 mpg combined rating.

The engine will be powered by two electric motor-generators. One of the electric motor generators will start the gas engine and charge the batteries and the other functions as a traction motor and a regenerative braking unit. There is also a 244.8-volt nickel-metal hydride battery pack behind the rear seats. The combined output of the gas engine and electric motor has been rated at 200 hp.

The 2013 Toyota Avalon’s hybrid system will offer three hybrid modes: EV, ECO and Sport.

EV mode allows the vehicle to run exclusively on electric power for up to one mile at 25 mph or less under certain conditions. ECO mode improves the Avalon’s efficiency by reducing the gas engine’s throttle response and HVAC output. Finally, Sport mode enhances the Avalon’s throttle response and steering feel.

Those interested in buying a 2013 Toyota Avalon will have the choice between a 3.5-liter V-6 and the hybrid drivetrains when the car goes on sale later this year.

Like what you read? Then follow us on twitter at @jerrystoyota and @JerrysItsAboutU for updates on all of our blogs, videos and vehicle comparisons.

Want more Toyota? like us on Facebook at http://facebook.com/jerrystoyota

What Would YOU Do?

Let’s face it; most contests that come up give you the feeling of “well this is a scam”. However every once in a while, as seen by the huge Mega Millions pot that hit Maryland this year, a contest comes up that makes you say: “You know? I actually have a chance!”

Well ladies and gentlemen this summer Jerry’s Auto Group created a contest that will make you feel just that. Starting June 1^st and running until Labor Day (September 3^rd) Jerry’s is hiding keys in their primary market area and giving clues as to their location. Those who find the winning keys are then entered to win at a wrap up event hosted by Jerry’s Auto Group (For more info on the contest visit http://newtoyotanews.blogspot.com/2012/05/jerrys-auto-group-announces-car-give.html)

The two cars that are available to win are the 2012 Scion iQ and the 2012 Chevrolet Cruze, which made us start thinking: If we were to win these cars what we would do with them? The following ideas came to mind.

Try The Scion iQ’s Turning Radius and Parallel Parking Skills

We have all seen the commercials for the Scion iQ showing off its impressive turning radius as well as its ability to be parked in virtually any parking spot. (if you haven’t seen this check it out at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FFg5xPmrCv4&feature=relmfu and http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0-dxD_ygD9Y )



The first thing I would do is find an empty lot and show off my iQ’s turning radius to my friends. The Scion iQ has a turning radius of 12 feet, making it possible to complete even the tightest turns. Another test for this radius would be performed during U-Turn attempts at tight interceptions. Something tells us that the iQ will be able to pull a U-turn in even the tightest intersections.

After showing off the iQ’s impressive turning radius I would move directly into attempting to recreate the parallel park job seen at the commercial (though seeing as I am not a trained driver I would be going much slower, and the two cars would be cones….I don’t want to ruin my baby ).

The one terrible thing about living in Baltimore will actually come in the handiest for the parallel park job test. As we all know finding street parking in the Baltimore area is almost impossible. Hate when you drive by a spot that you know you would fit in had the person there parked 5 inches forward? Well with the Scion iQ you don’t have to worry about that. The 2012 Scion iQ is about 120 inches long, making it easy to fit in all of those hard to park areas. Look out Baltimore parking, prepare to be defeated.

Take the Sonic on a romantic road trip!

A few weeks ago I made a post via social media asking our followers what they would do if they won a car and one answer really stood out to me. One person said that they had always wanted to be able to take a road trip across the 50 states in the U.S, and that is a dream that I have shared for many years.

 

Now realistically speaking we are aware that the Chevy Sonic will not be ideal for a full family road trip, so instead we came up with a better idea: A romantic getaway for our significant others!

If you are, or have been, in a relationship you know that every couple dreams of that romantic getaway, away from work, stress and everything else that makes vacations necessary. Many couples hope for it, and most are never able to fulfill their dream due to lack of funds, unreliable vehicles, etc. However, winning a brand new car takes the stress of wondering whether your car will break down on the side of the road out of your dream vacation.

The 2012 Chevy Sonic is the perfect vehicle for a romantic getaway.  It is comfortable, it is spacious and the 1.8-liter model with the automatic transmission can get 25 mpg city/35 mpg highway and 28 mpg combined. 35 MPG Highway means you will save your money at the pump so you can spend it on your sweetheart; it is a win-win if I ever saw one.

Another reason why this would be the perfect road trip vehicle is because the 2012 Chevy Sonic is simply a fun car to drive! It offers light steering and it quickly reacts during turns. It even drives well on trails, making this a fun car to take to your getaway, wherever it may be.

Turn garage into entertainment center

While this is one that doesn’t specifically relate to what you would do with the car, it does relate to what having the car can do for you!

Take a look at the size of a one car garage and compare it to the diminutive size of the 2012 Scion iQ; Catch my drift?

The Scion iQ is so tiny (its only about 120 inches long) that it offers its owner the ability to use that garage for something better and more entertaining. This could be a perfect place to create your “man cave”, a good work area or even your own personal work out zone.

If I had my dream garage it would have the following.

1)    Big Screen T.V (Flat screen to save room ;o))

2)    Man Couch or Recliner Man Chair

3)    Video game system (PS3 or Xbox 360) to use for entertainment, DVD play and Netflix direct stream purposes.

4)    My Scion iQ

See? Entertainment made easy!

Cruise Europe with the iQ

If anybody has been to Europe you know that European streets were not made for most average sized vehicles to go in. After reading how our friends at Google used the Scion iQ to cruise the streets of Belgium (find it at http://blog.autoshopper.com/articles/3409/Google-Uses-Toyota-iQ-For-Street-View-On-Narrow-Belgian-Roads/) I figured, why not fulfill a lifelong fantasy of traveling the old continent?

The Scion iQ would be the perfect car to travel around in Europe. It is fuel efficient, It’s easy to maneuver in Europe’s busy streets and it is the perfect size to make it anywhere. If I could choose one car to have during a European road trip, this would certainly be it!

So What Would YOU Do?

So now that you have read my ideas I would like to hear from you. What would you do if you won a 2012 Chevy sonic or a 2012 Scion iQ?

Like what you read? Follow us on Twitter at @jerrystoyota and @jerrysitsaboutu for blog updates

For more information on Toyota products including pictures, videos, car battles and specials like our Facebook at http://facebook.com/jerrystoyota