Thursday, June 30, 2016

The Toyota Mirai, Toyota's car of the future

 

  At first glance, the Toyota Mirai has an aggressive stance that may come across as intimidating to some.  As you circle the hydrogen fuel-cell car, the lines and styling soften to reveal a tail end that would blend in among a sea of cars caught in traffic.


  The driving experience is just as confusing as the exterior. It feels like an oxymoron. One one hand, you're driving a production version of a hydrogen car. On the other hand, it feels more like a Camry, which isn't necessarily a bad thing. Not every car that moves away from tradition is going to be a Model S and not every driver needs Ludicrous mode. What most of us want is a vehicle that will get us to work every day, comfortably. In that respect, the Mirai is mostly there. 


  The interior of the Mirai is comfortable with tech and styling cues taken from Toyota's Lexus luxury line. It's a commuter that feels smarter and a more solid frame construction that a grocery getter. All in all, the Toyota Mirai sits between the Honda Accords, Toyota Camrys and Chevy Malibus of the world. But thanks to the fuel cell technology under the hood, the price tag has a heavy number...$57,700.  Thankfully though, like the hybrid and electric vehicles, it is eligible for federal tax credits.

You can shop our current Toyota inventory while you wait for the Mirai at www.smarttoyotaquadcities.com 

Wednesday, June 1, 2016

Be a Race Car Driver in Toyota's New Camry

Some grew up dreaming of being  astronauts. Some wanted to be firefighters. Others wanted to race car drivers. Well, now that dream is achievable in Toyota's new Camry. It's not your grandmother's Camry. It is the Camry as seen in NASCAR. What is so different about this vehicle from the rest of the Camry models? Well, 700 horsepower being sent to the rear wheels by a huge V8 engine and six-speed manual transmission.

Built with a two-door Solara skeleton with the Camry sedan's nose and tail detailing, it also features classic Camry features such as the integrated tubular roll cage, a full leather interior, and the high tech Toyota sound systems all within.
Unfortunately, we are not entirely sure it is legal to drive. And even if it is, would you buy it for its asking price on ebay of $159,000? If you have $159,000 to spend, the dream of being a race car driver can happen now. If you don't, the dream still awaits.

With all that said, the normal Camry is no slouch. In fact, Toyota keeps making it better and better. Starting at just over $22,000, there is no better value for your money. With a range of 35 miles per gallon and 4 cylinder engine, it is not as powerful as its racing counterpart, but it at least has four doors. 

For your Toyota Camry, be sure to shop with us at Smart Toyota of Quad Cities.