We’re giving away a brand new 2012 Camry to one lucky winner and one to a friend of their choosing.

Every Camry has a story. Yours could start Sunday, February 5th.

All you have to do is visit the link below to enter for a chance to win.You can enter once a day, every day from now until Sunday, February 5th — on that day you can enter twice. You can enter online or Shazam the commercial one last time when it airs live on television.

We’ll call the potential winner by the end of the day. Remember to tell your friends to enter. If they win, they might pick you to win too.

What are you waiting for? Visit Toyota of Washinton's page to enter for a chance to win and share your Camry story to see how you’re connected to nearly 7 million Camry drivers. The Effect might surprise you.

NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. Open to legal residents of the 50 United States & DC, 18+ years of age and not a minor.
Sweepstakes ends 2/5/12 at 10 pm ET. Data charges may apply. To enter online and for full Official Rules, visit http://toyota.com/camryeffect/dealer/bb69bf4b2e516a88a3dbe2942ef49c49. Void where prohibited.

Monday Maintenance Tip! Extend the Life of Your Tires.

It's time for your Monday Maintenance Tip. Extend the life of your tires with careful driving. Be sure to observe posted speed limits, avoid fast starts, stops, and turns. It is also wise to avoid potholes and objects on the road. Try not to run over curbs or hit the tire against the curb when parking. And, of course, don’t burn rubber. Hope everyone had a great weekend! 

Have you ever had a Camry? Check out The Camry Effect to share your story with the world.

Reader Review of the Week: 2012 Toyota Highlander Hybrid

Courtesy of Cars.com

"Family of Four" from Los Angeles was in search of the perfect family vehicle — something that was easily maneuverable, versatile and fuel efficient. The family settled on the 2012 Toyota Highlander Hybrid for its comfortable, quiet ride and superb fuel economy. For all the reasons why Family of Four chose the Highlander Hybrid over the likes of the Honda Pilot and Lexus RX, continue reading below.

"We purchased the '12 Highlander Hybrid because we were looking for a vehicle that could haul our family with two kids comfortably around town, get decent mileage for a daily 80-mile round-trip commute (with traffic), have the capacity to accommodate a third row of our kids' friends, and have all-wheel drive for ski trips to the local mountains. There really wasn't any other vehicle that came close to fulfilling all these criteria.

"The Highlander Hybrid is very comfortable and extremely quiet. There is very little wind or road noise at highway speed. Being able to scoot around in complete silence in all-electric mode (up to 30 mph) in a vehicle this size is impressive. We were amazed by the peaceful nature of the cabin. However, as a taller individual (6 feet tall), I feel that the seat could have some more thigh support for long drives, but otherwise, no complaints for the cabin.

"The hybrid powertrain is terrific. It is totally seamless between the gas and dual-electric motors, and we are averaging 28 mpg with everyday driving over the past 4,000 miles (as advertised). Range is approximately 400 miles between fill-ups. The added bonus is that it runs on regular unleaded gas, which further reduces fuel costs. For an all-wheel-drive vehicle of this size, this is quite a feat when you consider we are often transporting four to six people and their gear. We use the Econ mode to buffer the accelerator a bit for improved efficiency in stop-and-go driving.

"We mainly compared this to the Pilot EX-L AWD. However, the Pilot is larger and while this gives it more interior room, it was too big for my wife to handle comfortably for short errands around town and parking quickly. In addition, getting less than 20 mpg in the city was not appealing. The Lexus RX 450h will give you a similar hybrid all-wheel-drive powertrain as the Highlander Hybrid, but it is smaller and there is no third-row seat.

"Overall, we are extremely happy with our purchase and feel lucky to have gotten our vehicle. Due to the tsunami in Japan, production of the Highlander Hybrid was apparently shut down for several months (it is the only Highlander made in Japan), but it is now back in dealerships."

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Toyota Prius C: Global Hybrid Could Become Most Important Prius

Courtesy of Motor Trend

Toyota rushed a cut-rate version of its current Prius into development when Honda announced a sub-$20,000 price for the Insight a couple years ago, but the loss-leader never came to production. Turns out the incremental costs involved with adding crank windows and the like to the Prius weren't recoverable, and anyway, there was no need to worry. Insight sales provided no serious competition.

The Prius C, like its bigger brother, is a full Synergy Drive hybrid, not a mild hybrid like the Honda.

If the midsize Prius hatchback is an alterna-Camry, the Prius C is an alterna-Corolla, a good fit for world markets where compacts are more popular. Establishing the Prius worldwide as a hybrid icon first will make it easier to sell the Prius C in Europe and elsewhere. The bottom line: Globally, the C likely will become Toyota's most important Prius.

With a 157.3-inch overall length to the standard Prius' 176.4, on a 5.9-inch-shorter wheelbase with 1.8-inch-lower height, the Prius C combines a 1.5-liter DOHC four with Hybrid Synergy Drive. Toyota expects better than 50-mpg city fuel mileage on the EPA cycle to make it the highest of any non-plug-in model.

Toyota promises lots of kit "at an attractive price," including Bluetooth connectivity, steering wheel audio controls, and nine airbags standard. Toyota's Entune infotainment, with connection to Bing, OpenTable.com, and movietickets.com, will be optional. Entune also offers real-time weather, traffic, gas station prices, stocks and sports, voice recognition, music streaming, and e-mail/text-to-speech capabilities. The ultimate fuel-saver might be sitting in the car and playing with all this connectivity instead of driving it. The Prius C will go on sale in the U.S. in the first half of 2012.

Car Service Tip of the Day!

You will improve your car’s fuel economy by having the air filter replaced regularly. It is recommended that the air filter be replaced at every car service or every other service. Come in to have your air filter changed today and breathe easier tomorrow.

Toyota Secures Sponsorship of NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series Event in Englishtown, N.J.

Via Toyota Racing

NHRA announced today that Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A. has expanded its participation in NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing by becoming the title rights sponsor of the event at Old Bridge Township Raceway Park in Englishtown, N.J. The 43rd annual Toyota NHRA SuperNationals will be held May 31 through June 3.
“Toyota is proud to expand its NHRA involvement with this title sponsorship initiative,” says Les Unger Toyota National Motorsports Manager.
In addition to becoming the sponsor of the Englishtown event, Toyota will have an advertising presence in the ESPN2 broadcasts of NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing with commercial inventory, an in-show sponsored feature, and race ticker. Toyota will also increase its national footprint in the sport and expand its on-site display visibility at various races.
“Toyota’s increasing involvement in NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing is a clear indicator of the return on investment at both the league and team level,” said Tom Compton, president, NHRA. “Toyota has a proven track record around sponsorship activation and to have their involvement as an event rights sponsor of one of the most prestigious stops on the NHRA Full Throttle Series is very exciting.”
Toyota’s involvement in NHRA began in 2002 with the arrival of the Celica-bodied Funny Car. The manufacturer’s first win came two years later, in February 2004 at the O’Reilly Auto Parts NHRA Winternationals presented by Super Start Batteries at Auto Club Raceway in Pomona. The program has since risen to new heights; in the past three years Toyota-sponsored cars have earned multiple NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series victories in Top Fuel and Funny Car, as well as the NHRA Top Fuel Full Throttle world championships in 2010 and 2011. In 2008, Cruz Pedregon won the NHRA Full Throttle Funny Car world championship in a Toyota Camry Solara.
Currently, Toyota sponsors three Top Fuel teams and three Funny Car teams. Al-Anabi Racing, Don Schumacher Racing, and Morgan Lucas Racing will field top fuel dragsters for drivers Khalid alBalooshi, Shawn Langdon, Morgan Lucas, Brandon Bernstein, and Antron Brown. Cruz Pedregon Racing, Tony Pedregon Racing and Kalitta Motorsports participate in the Funny Car class. An all-new 2012 Toyota Camry Funny Car body will feature four drivers including: Cruz Pedregon, Jeff Arend, Tony Pedregon, and 2012 Automobile Club of Southern California Road to the Future Award candidate Alexis DeJoria.

Congratulations to the 2012 Toyota Tacoma, the winner of PickupTrucks.com's Midsize Shootout.

Courtesy of cars.com

This shootout put seven midsize pickups through head-to-head testing to determine which was the top truck in the segment. The Tacoma took the title because of its refined ride, interior quality and great value. Overall, the Tacoma not only outperformed the other six trucks, but also had the fewest sacrifices or compromises feature-wise.

Quiz Time!

What was the first inflatable tire made out of?

A. rubber

B. latex

C. silicone

D. leather

Two Worlds - Toyota Camry

This driver's story would definitely be an impressive entry to The Camry Effect.  Have you shared your story yet?

Have you shared your Camry story?

Have you shared your Camry story yet? Toyota is planning on announcing some very exciting news regarding The Camry Effect so don't miss out on your opportunity to be a part of this awesome campaign!

Toyota Prius c Completes the Prius Family of Vehicles

Courtesy of Toyota Pressroom

Following the U.S. debut of the all-new 2012 Prius c at the 2012 North American International Auto Show here, Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc., plans to bring this dynamically styled, five-door hatchback to market in March of 2012, and introduce Toyota’s Hybrid Synergy Drive to the subcompact segment.

 

The letter “c” represents “city” in the Prius c name. Designed to function as an urban-friendly vehicle with an engaging driving experience, hatchback utility, and a city fuel economy rating of 53 mpg, Prius c offers the highest city mpg rating of any vehicle without a plug.  The all-new Prius c joins the Prius Family, which includes the third generation Prius Liftback, the versatile new Prius v and the Prius Plug-in Hybrid, which will debut in early 2012.

Beginning with the first generation fourteen years ago, over two million Prius units have been sold worldwide. Prius remains the world’s premier eco-vehicle brand, and has made great strides establishing consumer trust in hybrid technology.  With Prius c, Toyota will make the market’s most proven hybrid technology available to subcompact car shoppers with a starting MSRP below $19,000.    

 

Unique Place in the Prius Family

A gateway product into the Prius Family, the new Prius c will find favor with younger shoppers seeking a smartly designed, fuel-efficient subcompact car packing advanced drivetrain and in-car technology. The Prius c will offer engaging driving dynamics with superior urban maneuverability. When the 2012 Prius c arrives in showrooms this spring, the all-new hatchback will offer:

• The highest rated city fuel economy estimate of any vehicle without a plug*; 53 mpg in the city, and 46 mpg on the highway, for a combined rating of 50 mpg
• The most accessible Prius will feature a starting MSRP below $19,000 with proven hybrid powertrain and premium technology
• A premium subcompact car experience thanks to a wide array of available convenience and advanced in-car electronics features, including a standard 3.5-in. full color TFT multi-information display, hands-free phone capability, USB port with iPod® connectivity, and available Display Audio system with Navigation and Entune™

The scale of the all-new Prius c becomes apparentwhen compared to the familiar proportions of the midsize Prius Liftback. The Prius c is smaller and lighter than its midsize Prius stable mate with 19.1 inches less length (157.3 vs. 176.4 inches OAL) and 542 lbs. less weight than the Prius Liftback (2,500 vs. 3,042 lbs.).  In adapting the Hybrid Synergy Drive to the smaller Prius c platform, each of the system’s major components  were re-designed to reduce weight, scale, and improve efficiency.  

 

	OAL	OAH	OAW	Wheelbase	Curb weight
2012 Prius	176.4 in.	58.7 in.	68.7 in.	106.3 in.	3,042 lbs.
2012 Prius c	157.3 in.	56.9 in.	66.7 in.	100.4 in.	2,500 lbs.

Four Grades with Generous Standard Equipment

The Prius c will be available in four trim levels offering desirable features, equipment, and enhanced capability giving consumers a compelling value proposition. Prius c provides many standard features such as automatic climate control, tilt-telescopic steering wheel with audio, climate, Multi-Information Display and Bluetooth® hands-free controls, and remote keyless entry with illuminated entry among a long list of standard equipment.

 

Efficient Packaging

The Prius c’s effective packaging design strategically locates key drivetrain components within the chassis to help optimize interior space and handling.  The compact gasoline engine, transaxle and power-control unit are optimally placed within the vehicle to help enhance weight distribution and lower the center of gravity.  In addition, the hybrid battery and fuel tank are positioned together beneath the rear seat, ideally distributing their mass within the wheelbase to improve weight distribution to help enhance handling. By locating the battery and fuel tank below the rear seat, the Prius c is able to offer 104 cu. ft. of interior volume (87.4 cu. ft. passenger volume, 17.1 cu. ft. cargo volume).

Prius c Hybrid Synergy Drive Propulsion

The Prius c’s Hybrid Synergy Drive system integrates the operation of components that include a gasoline engine, an electric motor within a Continuously Variable Transaxle, a nickel-metal hydride battery, a power control unit (inverter), a DC-DC converter, a step-up converter and a hybrid control computer. The hybrid control computer governs the seamless application of gasoline engine and electric power depending on driving demands and selected drive mode.   

 

	Gasoline Engine	Engine Output	Electric Motor Output	Total System Output
Prius	1.8-liter, four-cylinder, Atkinson cycle with VVT-i	98 hp@5200 rpm 105 lb.-ft.@4000 rpm	80 hp (60 kW)	134 hp (100 kW)
Prius c	1.5-liter, four-cylinder, Atkinson cycle with VVT-i	73 hp@4800 rpm 82 lb.-ft@4000 rpm	60 hp (45kW)	99 hp (74 kW)

The Prius c relies on a SULEV (Tier 2 Bin 3) rated 1.5-liter in-line, four-cylinder gasoline engine that utilizes an Atkinson cycle to increase efficiency. This engineproduces 73 horsepower and 82 lb.-ft. of torque, contributing to a total hybrid system output of 99 hp.    

 

The Prius c’s hybrid system utilizes a 144-volt nickel-metal hydride battery pack that has been located under the rear passenger seat, near the center of the vehicle, and low in the chassis to help improve the center of gravity.

Prius c offers three distinct drive modes: Normal, Eco, and EV mode.  Eco mode reduces overall energy consumption by governing climate control and throttle to improve vehicle efficiency. Under certain conditions, the EV mode allows the Prius c to be driven solely by electric power for a short distance (under 1 mile) while remaining below 25 mph.     

 

Vehicle Structure – Improved Handling and Safety

The Prius c’s body structure makes extensive use of lightweight, high-strength steel to help reduce vehicle mass and improve fuel economy. The strategic use of high-tensile-strength steel contributes to the vehicle’s ability to absorb and disperse impact energies helping enhance occupant safety. The high level of torsional rigidity afforded by the Prius c body structure allows the suspension to be more optimally tuned for ride and handling.

Suspension and Steering for Enhanced Handling

The front suspension uses a Macpherson strut design, and the rear rides on a tuned torsion beam. The coil-spring and shock-absorber characteristics of the Prius c have been tuned to enhance handling, flat turning, and smooth ride comfort.  Prius c is available with 15- or 16-inch wheel-and-tire combinations.  The 15-inch wheels are available in steel with wheel cover for base model or in aluminum alloy for elevated trim levels. Prius c models equipped with the available 16-inch aluminum alloy wheels enjoy enhanced handling thanks to a faster steering ratio (2.28 turns lock to lock), which helps quicken the vehicle’s dynamic response.

 

Youthful Exterior and Interior Design

The Prius c exterior design helps project a fun, youthful attitude for this all-new addition to the Prius family, while offering excellent aerodynamic performance. Extensive aerodynamic features were engineered into the Prius c to help achieve a 0.28 coefficient of drag. Adding character to this subcompact, the Prius c’s lower-body styling is wider below the beltline, featuring sculpted rear flares to help express a sturdy, athletic stance that communicates a more agile driving experience.

The Prius c’s available exterior colors include vibrant hues that are unique and expressive. The available colors for Prius c include three new colors – Habanero, Moonglow, and Summer Rain Metallic – along with Blue Streak Metallic, Absolutely Red, Black Sand Pearl, Magnetic Gray Metallic, Classic Silver Metallic, and Super White. 

The Prius c interior design seeks to create a space that is futuristic yet passenger friendly.  Using black as a basic interior color, the door trim, seat surfaces, and instrument panel feature treatments in lighter colors to help create contrast.

 

Display Audio and Connectivity with Entune^®

The 2012 Prius c will offer three audio system configurations. A base audio system features either four or six speakers, depending on the model, and includes AM/FM CD player with MP3/WMA playback capability, auxiliary audio jack, USB port with iPod^® connectivity, hands-free phone capability, phone book access, and music streaming via Bluetooth^® wireless technology. 

The Display Audio with Navigation and Entune™ has six speakers and augments capability with a 6.1-inch touchscreen, SiriusXM™ Satellite Radio capability (with 3-month trial subscription to XM Select package), HD Radio™ with iTunes^® tagging, and advanced voice recognition. Toyota’s Entune™ multi-media system functions through select smart phones’ interface that brings applications such as Bing and Pandora^® to the vehicle audio display. It also features real time information such as traffic, weather, fuel prices, sports, and stocks.     

 

Standard Safety Features

The Prius c is equipped with nine airbags strategically located to help protect the driver and passengers in the event of certain types of accidents.  The new 2012 Prius c, like allToyota models, is equipped with the standard Star Safety System™, which includes Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Traction Control (TRAC), Anti-lock Brake System (ABS), Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA), and Smart Stop Technology (SST).   

Toyota Reveals NS4 Advanced Plug-In Hybrid Concept

Courtesy of Toyota Pressroom

Toyota Motor Sales revealed the NS4 advanced plug-in hybrid concept vehicle at the 2012 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit. The NS4 signifies Toyota’s vision for future mobility with a focus on connectivity and the human interface.

Toyota engineers were challenged to design a new mid-sized concept for potential global market introduction by 2015. The NS4 concept is a dedicated plug-in hybrid, separate from the Prius family, designed with future mobility requirements in mind.

“In this digital age, cars are becoming another spoke in the wheel of our electronic connectivity,” said Jim Lentz, TMS president and chief operating officer. “NS4 demonstrates Toyota’s take on the human connection to the car with technology that considers both emotional and rational relationships, person-to-car and car-to-society.”

NS4’s advanced powertrain targets a next-generation Hybrid Synergy Drive plug-in system featuring reductions in component size and weight with improved overall fuel economy, better acceleration and longer all-electric range, while maintaining a short charge time.

Sleek, Futuristic Styling
The NS4 concept signals a new styling direction for the Toyota brand aimed at creating an emotional connection with consumers. NS4 styling lines reflect a new take on the aerodynamics of the modified triangle, with a low height and cabin-forward tilt. The distinctive open trapezoid grille is accented by a floating lower spoiler and wing-like daytime running lights wrapping around to a sculpted fender. Rear lamps wrap around the sides of the vehicle to quarter sections layered into blistered fenders, while the rear lamp wings create a sharp edge and the effect of a rear spoiler.

The A-pillars are ultra thin for improved driver visibility while maintaining roof
crush integrity. The roof line profile, lift back design and powered swan-wing doors create greater accessibility and efficient functionality.

Increased Connectivity
Traditional vehicle development cycles average four years, but this is rapidly changing in the digital age. Vehicles have become another communication hub in the connected-consumers lifestyle and automakers must integrate the latest technologies into their product offerings. In fact, connected vehicles are the third-fastest growing technological device, behind smartphones and tablets.

Toyota has formed special alliances with technology leaders such as Microsoft, Intel and Salesforce to explore the creation of seamless vehicle interfaces with emerging technologies. These alliances will help ensure Toyota is at the forefront of this emerging sector of the automotive market.

The NS4 concept’s Human-Machine Interface (HMI) provides a user interface built around a multi-touch screen with the look and feel of a smartphone. The simple, intuitive operation conveys information quickly while minimizing distractions and maximizing driver awareness. The multimedia and vehicle-controls enhancement also will direct air conditioning, audio, battery-charge and navigation functions. The HMI system is even capable of “learning” driver preferences and habits to anticipate driver responses in specific environments and situations. This concept represents a truly connected vehicle, offering the latest technology in a responsible and convenient package.

State-of-the-Art Safety Features
The NS4 introduces a next generation Pre-Collision System (PCS) with lane departure, rear-end and pedestrian collision avoidance technologies designed to predict collisions under certain circumstances and help avoid them. This PCS uses millimeter-wave radar and stereo cameras mounted on the front of the vehicle to detect and react to lane departure, pedestrians and other vehicles. In addition, the system emits near-infrared beams to enhance PCS recognition at night. This driver assistance feature helps to avoid collisions with other vehicles, road-side obstructions, and pedestrians by applying the brakes and manipulating steering.

The current generation PCS, available in certain Lexus and Toyota vehicles, is designed to identify certain objects directly in the road ahead. If PCS determines that a collision is imminent, the brake assist system is placed in standby mode, a warning is displayed and a buzzer sounds. If PCS determines that a collision is unavoidable, the system still will alert the driver via a warning light, warning display and buzzer, apply the brakes and automatically retract the driver and front passenger seatbelts.

Adaptive Driving Beam (ADB) headlights help prevent vision-impairing glare to oncoming drivers and pedestrians. Using a camera mounted behind the front grille and partial shielding inside the headlights, this feature allows drivers to maintain near-high beam illumination to improve nighttime visibility.

The pop-up hood structure automatically raises the rear of the hood to increase the space underneath, helping to reduce pedestrian head injuries caused by a collision with the front of the vehicle, within certain speed ranges. This innovation is the result of testing and verification using both conventional crash-test dummies and Toyota’s Total Human Model for Safety (THUMS) virtual model.

Using sub-millimeter wave radar, the Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) is designed to detect a vehicle in the adjacent lane and visually alerts the driver using visual indicators placed in the upper dash.

Four new glass technologies are integrated into the windshield and front triangle, door, and rear windows to improve driver visibility, gas mileage and electric driving mode mileage efficiency:

• Hydrophobic coating – Fluorine coated glass causes rain drops to form into semispherical shapes for improved visibility and rain drop elimination (also used on the roof solar panel)
• Anti-fog film – High performance resin material with anti-fogging characteristics and increased durability
• High ultraviolet (UV) absorbing inner-layer – Removes 99 percent of harmful UVA and UVB rays
• Anti-solar film with radio-wave transparency – Reduces the internal vehicle temperature and improves electronic device functionality

Inner and outer rear view mirrors have been replaced with cameras that provide the driver with a panoramic rearward view. The rearward image is displayed on a dedicated dashboard mounted screen above the navigation screen and provides a wider view than conventional rear view mirrors. The rearward panoramic camera view working in combination with the Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM) system enhances driving visibility.

“The continued success of our conventional hybrid vehicles has laid strong groundwork for market acceptance of future advanced technologies,” said Lentz. “NS4 demonstrates Toyota’s ongoing commitment to enhancing the safety, efficiency, and convenience of future mobility for people everywhere."

Legendary Toyota Land Cruiser Receives Significant Enhancements for 2013

Courtesy of Toyota Pressroom

The legendary Toyota Land Cruiser recently celebrated its 60th anniversary since its original launch in Japan and has remained constant in Toyota’s U.S. model lineup for more than 50 years.

Land Cruiser has evolved over time from a basic four-wheel-drive utility vehicle in its early years to an upscale eight-passenger sport utility vehicle (SUV) sold in 188 countries. Yet, this iconic vehicle has retained a loyal following as it remains true to its off-road heritage with uncompromising go-anywhere capability.

For the 2013 model year, Land Cruiser receives exterior and interior styling enhancements. Additionally, Land Cruiser will now come with all features as standard equipment, including new driving performance features, and an array of significant safety and convenience features. Among the many popular features that were formerly available as options, but are now standard, are rear-seat DVD entertainment system, color-keyed rear spoiler, rain-sensing windshield wipers, center-console cooler box, headlamp cleaners, leather-trimmed steering wheel, multi-information display, voice and Bluetooth® hands-free controls, leather-trimmed shift lever and heated second row seats. Toyota’s Premium Hard Disk Drive (HDD) Navigation with Entune multi-media system and JBL® audio is also standard.

Exterior Design
The 2013 Land Cruiser receives refreshed exterior styling that includes an updated front grille and headlamps with HID low-beams. Additional new features include LED Daytime Running Lights, chrome side molding, redesigned outer side mirrors and tail lamps. The design continues to convey an "Advanced and Rugged" theme with enlarged front and rear fenders. The new grille and headlamps maintain Land Cruiser's steady and confident appearance, while the hood flows gracefully into the grille and beltlines.

Character lines in the front, the area around the rear door handles, and the back door panels suggest strength. Foam-filled A-pillars and a “bifacial” molding between the windshield and the body both help reduce wind noise.

Underbody panels behind the front bumper and extending under the engine, and behind the rear wheels, are designed to protect the engine and transmission and to help the vehicle traverse rocky terrain smoothly. These underbody panels also smooth the airflow under the vehicle to help minimize drag and turbulence.

Land Cruiser is available in seven exterior colors, including Pearl White, which is new to the palette. Additional colors include Classic Silver Metallic, Magnetic Gray Metallic, Salsa Red Pearl, Sonora Gold Pearl, Amazon Green Metallic and Black.

Interior Design
Complementing the freshened exterior, Land Cruiser receives an updated interior available in either Sandstone or Black. Additional refinements include perforated leather trim with ventilated front seats, a higher gloss wood grain finish, brighter silver instrument panel ornamentation, chrome-plated air registers and updated meter-cluster lighting. New interior convenience features include a Multi-terrain Monitor with front, side or rear selectable views; a new Multi-information Display; an Eco Driving Indicator light and zone display; a heated steering wheel; Dynamic Radar Cruise Control; an additional power outlet (DC 12V) at the rear of the center console; and a rear cargo deck power outlet that has been changed to AC 120V from AC 115V.

Land Cruiser seats up to eight, with three-across seating in the second and third rows. The instrument panel features a set of bright Optitron gauges with white illumination. Beneath these gauges, a multi-informational display shows gear selection, odometer, tripmeter, fuel consumption, individual tire pressures and cruising range. The vehicle's center console features a gate-type shifter with sequential-shift-mode operation, the parking brake, center-console cooler box, USB port and cup holders.

The passenger-side second-row seat features a one-touch tumble mechanism for easier third-row ingress and egress. The second-row seats slide forward and aft 4.1 inches for more passenger comfort and cargo storage versatility. The second row also provides the Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) child seat attachment system.

Performance
The Land Cruiser’s 5.7-liter V8 DOHC engine produces 381 horsepower at 5,600 rpm and 401 lb-ft of torque at 3,600 rpm. Ninety percent of peak torque is available at just 2,200 rpm, helping make it an outstanding tow vehicle. The Land Cruiser uses regular-grade (87 AKI) gasoline and is ULEV-II certified.

The V8's advanced dual independent Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i) system controls valve timing and overlap on both the intake and exhaust valves, which helps to optimize power, fuel efficiency and emissions. The Acoustic Control Induction System (ACIS) switches the length of the intake tract in two stages, based on RPM and throttle angle, to improve torque across the engine speed range. Stainless steel exhaust manifolds flow into a full stainless steel exhaust system. A water-cooled oil cooler helps control oil temperature while towing.

The Land Cruiser’s six-speed automatic transmission is designed to handle high torque while performing with luxurious smoothness. Fourth gear is direct drive, and both fifth and sixth gears are overdrive ratios. The transmission's control unit estimates road conditions to select the appropriate gear ratio for the vehicle's speed and driving conditions. A sequential shift mode allows the driver to select gears manually.

Capability, Handling and Ride
The Land Cruiser’s body-on-frame construction provides rugged durability in extreme driving conditions, plus impressive towing capability and ride isolation characteristics. The front of the frame features a three-stage crush structure, so frame damage to other areas of the vehicle is minimized in the case of frontal impact.

The Land Cruiser’s high-mount double-wishbone front-suspension system uses gas-pressure shock absorbers, a hollow stabilizer bar, and coil springs. This system provides a high level of off-road driving capability and suspension control while maintaining outstanding on-road driving comfort. Approach and departure angles are 30 degrees and 20 degrees, respectively. At the rear, the reliable and proven four-link, coil-spring with lateral-rod format provides a long suspension stroke and also features gas-pressure shock absorbers and a hollow stabilizer bar.

The Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (KDSS) adjusts the lean resistance provided by the front and rear stabilizer bars. KDSS may reduce maximum body-sway angle by as much as 50 percent to help enhance both on-road handling response and off-highway capability. By using hydraulic cylinders acting on each stabilizer bar and linked by a pressure-sensing valve, KDSS reduces the degree of sway stiffness provided by the stabilizer bars in response to changing road conditions and driver inputs.

In off-road driving situations, KDSS allows the wheels on each axle to move with a larger degree of side-to-side independence, helping to minimize any tendency for wheel lift. During cornering, when both front and rear cylinders are compressed, no fluid is flowing in the system, and the stabilizer bars work conventionally to help reduce body lean. When an uneven surface is encountered, one compressed cylinder causes fluid to flow between the front and rear cylinders, allowing the stabilizer bars to move freely. This action increases wheel articulation and travel, and it also helps to equalize wheel loading. By allowing the stabilizer bars to disengage in certain situations, the nominal stiffness of the bars can be notably increased, thereby reducing body lean and improving handling without negatively affecting ride comfort or off-road performance.

New on Land Cruiser is a Multi-terrain Select system that dials in wheel slip control to match the terrain. In loose terrain such as mud and sand, more-than-normal wheel slip is permitted, allowing wheel-spin to work in the vehicle’s favor. On bumpy moguls, or solid rock, wheel slip is minimized and the system acts more like a limited slip differential. The Mogul setting is for any extremely uneven terrain, such as V-ditches, slopes, and ridges, uphill or down.

Land Cruiser rides on P285/60 R18 mud-and-snow steel-belted radial tires mounted on new 18 x 8.0-inch aluminum alloy wheels with a high-gloss finish (including a full-size spare). The brake system employs 13.4-inch ventilated discs with four-piston calipers up front and 13.6-inch ventilated discs at the rear. Variable gear ratio power-assisted rack-and-pinion steering requires just 3.1 turns lock-to-lock. Gear ratio is set larger around the steering center and smaller around the end position.

The lightweight, compact transfer case provides full-time four-wheel drive with a low-range 2.618:1 ratio for traversing challenging driving surfaces, such as steep inclines. The system uses a TORSEN® limited-slip locking center differential to distribute power 40:60 front-to-rear, directing more power to the wheels with the best grip should slippage occur. Traction control (TRAC) employs both brake and throttle intervention to help control wheel spin. Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), with a cut-off switch, helps maintain directional control during cornering.

A new five-speed CRAWL Control with an Off-Road Turn Assist feature helps make traversing difficult terrain easier. With the transfer case shifted into low range, CRAWL Control regulates engine speed and output (along with braking force), to propel the vehicle forward or in reverse at one of five low-speed settings. This allows the driver to maintain focus on steering over extremely rough level ground or steep grades, without having to also modulate the throttle or brake pedals. The Off-Road Turn Assist feature pulses the rear corner brakes to help the vehicle make sharper turns when maneuvering through tight quarters on rugged terrain. CRAWL Control with Off-Road Turn Assist includes Downhill Assist Control (DAC), which is designed to augment the low-speed descending ability of low-range by helping to hold the vehicle to a target speed with practically no driver intervention. Hill-start Assist Control (HAC) provides additional control for off-road driving by helping to keep the vehicle stationary while starting on a steep incline or slippery surface.

For towing convenience, the Land Cruiser has a towing connector and sub-wiring harness to connect a commercial trailer-brake controller. New for Land Cruiser is a Trailer Sway Control that uses the Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) to help counteract handling forces applied to the truck in an effort to minimize the impact of trailer sway.

Safety
The Land Cruiser utilizes welded high-strength sheet steel, especially in the A-, B-, C- and D-pillars, and in the rocker area to increase rigidity and reduce weight. The B-pillars are designed to help absorb side impacts and help dissipate into the rest of the body structure.

For driver and passenger peace-of-mind every Land Cruiser is equipped with the Safety Connect™ telematics system.

Available by subscription (first year of service is included in the new vehicle purchase price), the Safety Connect telematics system offers four safety and security features: Automatic Collision Notification, Stolen Vehicle Location, Emergency Assistance Button (SOS), and enhanced Roadside Assistance, which adds GPS data to the already-included warranty-based Toyota roadside service.

In case of either airbag deployment or severe rear-end collision; Automatic Collision Notification is designed to automatically call the response center. If the response agent cannot communicate with the occupants, the agent can contact the nearest emergency-services provider to dispatch assistance.

Pushing the “SOS” button can summon help in an emergency and for a wide range of roadside assistance needs. If a Land Cruiser equipped with Safety Connect is stolen, the system can help local authorities locate it.

Like all Toyotas, the Land Cruiser comes standard with the STAR Safety System™. A new, four-wheel multi-terrain anti-lock braking system (ABS) automatically selects the optimal ABS profile to provide the most suitable brake force for on- and off-road driving surfaces. Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) balances braking forces between the front and rear brakes, while Brake Assist (BA) provides auxiliary force to assist the driver during emergency braking. Active Traction Control (A-TRAC) helps maintain traction during acceleration by controlling engine output and braking forces to the wheel, distributing the drive force that might have been lost to the wheels and tires that have traction. VSC (with a cut-off switch) helps maintain directional control during cornering by manipulating engine torque and individual wheel-braking influence if it detects tire slippage.

Land Cruiser features 10 standards airbags: driver and front passenger dual-stage advanced airbags; driver and front passenger knee airbags; front- and second-row seat-mounted side airbags; and three-row roll-sensing side curtain airbags with a roll-sensing cutoff switch.

A direct tire pressure monitor system (TPMS) helps to alert the driver to severe pressure drops in any of the tires, including the full-size spare. A parking sonar system uses ultrasonic sensors on the front and rear bumpers to sense obstacles.

All eight seating positions feature three-point seatbelts. Active headrests on the driver and front passenger seats move up and forward almost instantly in the event of certain rear-end collisions to help reduce the distance between the occupant's head and the headrest. An available advanced seatbelt system is designed to retract the front seatbelts when the brakes are suddenly applied or when tire slippage is detected by the VSC system. New for Land Cruiser is a Pre-Collision System designed to detect other vehicles and obstacles in its path and help optimize the restraining performance of the front passenger seatbelts if a collision is imminent.

Entune™
Land Cruiser will come standard with Toyota’s new Premium HDD Navigation system with Entune™ and JBL®. The system includes an eight-inch touch/spilt-screen with an integrated backup camera display, AM/FM CD player with MP3/WMA playback capability, 14 JBL speakers including subwoofer, SiriusXM™ Satellite Radio capability (includes three-month trial subscription to XM Select Package); HD Radio™ with iTunes® Tagging, USB port with iPod® connectivity and control, vehicle information, hands-free phone capability, phone book access, advanced voice recognition, and music streaming via Bluetooth® wireless technology.

Toyota’s new Entune multimedia system leverages the mobile smartphone to provide a richer in-vehicle experience with fully integrated access to navigation, entertainment and information services.

Toyota Entune debuts the Land Cruiser’s first-ever support for engaging mobile apps, such as Bing, OpenTable, and movietickets.com, along with accessing useful travel-related services, such as live weather, traffic, fuel information (location and price), stocks, and sports. Entune brings one of the largest selection of music options available to a vehicle, including iHeartRadio’s 750+ stations, and Pandora’s personalized music service (access to Entune services is complimentary for three years).

The audio systems combined with Entune feature an advanced conversational voice recognition system that helps the driver to stay focused on the road by eliminating the need to memorize thousands of voice commands.

Comfort and Convenience
With 28 total air vents, the four-zone climate control system is designed to bathe occupants in comfortable air -- even during extreme heat -- rather than simply projecting streams of cool air at them. For extreme cold situations, the Land Cruiser’s auxiliary Positive Temperature Coefficient (PTC) heater warms air instantly by passing it over an electrically heated ceramic element. The system also includes a micro-dust and pollen filter, and seven-level blower control.

The Land Cruiser comes luxuriously equipped, with standard features that include rear privacy glass, Smart Key keyless entry with push-button start that allows the driver to unlock or start the vehicle without inserting a conventional key; anti-theft security system; engine immobilizer; cruise control; power moonroof; auto-dimming rearview and side mirrors; HomeLink® universal garage-door/gate opening system; steering wheel-mounted audio controls; heated, power front seats with driver's memory; and power tilt and telescopic steering column with memory.

Toyota's Auto Show Exhibit Focuses on Future of Transportation

Courtesy of Toyota Pressroom

The future of transportation at Toyota will be firmly on display at the upcoming North American International Auto Show (NAIAS).

Toyota’s 30,000-square-foot exhibit will be a blend of new products bound for dealerships and concept vehicles that could pave the way for new vehicles and promising technologies. Among the headliners at the exhibit is a pair of vehicles debuting during Media Days at NAIAS. On Jan. 10, Toyota will unveil the NS4, an advanced plug-in hybrid concept vehicle. The news conference will feature the premiere of this concept vehicle as well as the North American debut of the Prius c hybrid. The Prius c will go on sale in 2012 and is the fourth member of the Prius “family” of hybrid vehicles. All four vehicles will be on display in a special “Prius Family Zone” in the exhibit.

Along with the NS4, a pair of other concept vehicles will also be featured in the “Technology Zone” of Toyota’s exhibit, after bowing at the Tokyo Motor Show last month. They include the FCV-R and Fun-Vii. The FCV-R is a fuel cell sedan concept with the “R” standing for Reality and Revolution. The Fun-Vii has been engineered to be able to connect wirelessly with the infrastructure and surrounding roads. The “Vii” is an abbreviation for Vehicle, interactive, internet. The Technology Zone also includes a cut-away vehicle and 3D cockpit display. Both displays convey future safety and convenience technologies presently being studied by Toyota for potential use in the next decade.

Toyota’s renowned Star Safety System will also be on display in the exhibit. Toyota’s standard safety equipment can be experienced interactively via a driving Safety Simulator.

In all, Toyota will have 30 cars, trucks and SUVs on display at the auto show. Traditional window stickers have been replaced by iPads mounted near each vehicle for pricing and options exploration. Product specialists will also utilize iPads and an on-site kiosk to demonstrate the features of Toyota’s new Entune multimedia system, now available on many 2012 models.

There are a few specialty vehicles available in the display, among them a Camry pace car for the 2012 Daytona 500, a Toyota Tundra pickup emblazoned with graphics from DC comics/apparel and a Prius Project Concept Bike – engineered and constructed with Prius’ innovative qualities in mind.

“This year’s exhibit is about where we’re heading as an automaker,” said Ruslan Polinovsky, Auto Show Engagement Manager at Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc. “Visitors will not only see our award-winning cars and trucks but vehicles that show our environmental and technological leadership.”

The exhibit was designed and constructed by Michigan-based George P. Johnson.

2012 Camry & the Pittsburgh Penguins!

Be sure to stop by and experience this exciting event.
Featuring a special guest appearance from the 2012 Toyota Camry!

We kick it off with the Rangers vs Penguins showdown on the 6th, featuring two members of The Ice Crew who will be on the scene starting at 6:00 PM on the 6th! Then we'll heat up the ice with a face off against the Devils on the 7th. In the final match on the 10th, The Penguins suit up against the Senators and send them back to Washington D.C.

We will be taking entries to win an autographed penguins jersey.

There will also be giveaways for people who fill out a survey.

And there will be an opportunity to sit inside the new 2012 Camry which is the official vehicle of the penguins.

Don't miss the on ice display between the second and third period!

Click here for more information.

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Toyota works on recycling hybrid batteries

Courtesy of Plasticsnews.com

Forget those fears that hybrid and electric vehicles will result in landfills full of dead batteries.

When Toyota hybrid battery packs reach the end of their lives, every piece is recycled. And it’s all because of a program launched a year ago by Toyota Motor Sales U.S.A. and its dealers.

Moreover, service departments can use the battery-handling process to help sell new vehicles to used-Prius owners.

Nickel-metal hydride battery packs for EVs and hybrids are expected to last seven to 10 years and 150,000 to 300,000 miles depending on how the vehicles are driven, said Gary Smith, Toyota corporate manager of product quality and service support.

The California Air Resources Board requires the packs to last 150,000 miles, “but that’s not a magic number for us,” Smith said.

Few Toyota hybrids are near that mileage, but Smith expects the number to climb soon. About 500 battery packs expire each month. Toyota hybrids became truly popular with the launch of the second-generation Prius in 2003, meaning the rate of Toyota hybrids with high mileage will increase soon. About 1.3 million Toyota hybrids are in use.

When a hybrid battery starts to wane, a light on the vehicle instrument panel is illuminated, and the power to the wheels is reduced, Smith said.

When a dealership reports a dying battery pack, Toyota sends a reusable shipping container for the pack, which is loaded into the container and sent to recycling specialist Kinsbursky Bros. in Anaheim, Calif., Smith said. The packs weigh 100 to 150 pounds, so they can be shipped by UPS.

Kinsbursky breaks down the battery pack, removing the most valuable components -- the nickel and a few rare-earth elements. The battery modules are shorted out to remove the electric current, the electrolyte is decanted and the nickel is sent to a smelter outside the tough regulatory climate of California. The resulting smelt typically is turned into stainless steel used to make refrigerator doors. The shells around the pack are recyclable. The plastic housing is shredded and reused.

Kinsbursky can also recycle lithium ion batteries, which are replacing nickel-metal hydride batteries in many EVs and hybrids.

Typically when the hybrid battery nears the end of its life, vehicle owners are ready to get a new car anyway. A new battery pack retails for $2,589, slightly less than the cost of an engine rebuild. And while Toyota is trying to drive down the cost of a new pack, the replacement cost tends to push the decision for a trade-in. As a result, the dealer can install a new battery pack for a used car he can resell.