2018 Toyota CH-R

Toyotas upcoming subcompact hatchback, the coupe high-rider (C-HR), has a novel exterior design that makes one wonder what its purpose is. Not that its incoherent, its just so unlike any of the status quo body styles- in a good way. Its unique expression is a refreshing step in a new direction for Toyota that’s expected to appeal greatly to a vast demographic.

Toyotas global designers expounded on an interesting theme that works brilliantly for the high rider: “Distinctive Diamond”. Toyota wanted to borrow the exquisiteness and strength that the precious gem evokes. Designers translated these traits into physical form by dynamically sculpting a muscular and edgy body that still effortlessly emanates luxury. The name “coupe high-rider” is quite fitting in the sense that the body has meticulously defined curves of the likes that have never been seen on an SUV before.

The C-HR comes equipped with an economical 2.0 L 4 cylinder that produces 144 horsepower and 140 lb-ft of torque. Although this isn’t quite the recipe for a performance car, it is expected to get good gas mileage and may actually surprise you with its deft responsiveness. Deputy Chief Engineer Hiro Koba, a diehard racer at heart, made it his mission to take the C-HR to the famed Nurburgring to ensure that the ride would be as exhilarating as the body was uncanny.

The unique CH-R is expected to arrive at Toyota dealers this spring, so it could be seen on the streets any day now. If you’d like to receive updates on Toyotas new CH-R, visit our site here.

The Toyota Mirai

Toyota has an innovative and clean vision for the future. This vision is slowly coming to fruition through Japans government-sponsored “hydrogen economy” initiative. Toyota in particular believes that fuel cells will take the place of all batteries to power zero emission cars from now to 2050. The Toyota Mirai, still just blossoming, is the conceptual catalyst of the hydrogen economy initiative and Toyotas vision of a cleaner future.

The Mirai, Toyotas sole zero emission vehicle, is now in its second year. After its initial release in 2016, the Mirai was awarded the 2016 World Green Car award at the New York International Auto Show.

“Just as Prius changed the world nearly 20 years ago, the hydrogen-powered Mirai is ready to make history. With a range of over 300 miles per tank, a refueling time of under five minutes, and emissions that consist only of water vapor, Mirai is leading the world toward a more sustainable future.” –Bill Fay, group vice president and general manager of the Toyota Division, at the NYIAS

The 2017 Mirai gets its power from a 114-kilowatt (153-horsepower) fuel cell under the front seats, which sends electricity to the electric motor that drives the front wheels. Some energy can also be supplied by the 1.6-kwh nickel-metal-hydride battery pack, which provides short boosts of energy when maximum power is needed, since fuel cells operate at a more steady output level. The electricity pushing the Mirai begins with the hydrogen tanks. Hydrogen travels from the tanks to the fuel cell stack where it undergoes a chemical reaction that encompasses the oxygen in the air. This creates the electricity, and the only byproduct from this process—water.

Safety is just as primary a concern as efficiency for the Mirai. The prototypes endured millions of miles of road testing and track evaluation, as well as rigorous in-house crash testing and more than 10,000 miles of extreme climate testing. The Mirai is also now equipped with Toyotas Star Safety System, a Pre-Collision system, Safety Connect, and Lane Departure Alert.

The Mirais sales are unfortunately limited to areas offering hydrogen refueling stations, hence they will only be available in the US within certain areas of California this year. You can visit our site here for updates/more information on the Toyota Mirai.

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2017 Toyota Highlander

The ever proud Toyota Highlander has consistently been one of the top choices in the SUV market since its initial debut, sporting an excellent balance in design quality and performance, as well as strong reliability and a solid resale value. The Highlander has received numerous upgrades this year and happily remains one of the best family sized vehicles on the market.

The available all new 3.5 L V6 paired with the new and improved Direct Shift 8 speed automatic transmission offer the perfect blend of power and efficiency. The Highlander was awarded an Ultra Low Emission Vehicle rating, clocking it around 27 mpg; quite impressive for its size and power. This years available options are quite tempting, including a 5,000-lb towing capacity, the new Stop and Start Engine System (enhancing the already notable fuel efficiency), and Dynamic Torque-Control- All-Wheel Drive for optimum control on the road.

The new front fascias prominent gloss-black grille accurately portrays the strength and prowess lurking behind. The overall aggressive exterior design is done well and actually works for this years Highlander. The interior boasts silencing insulation and acoustic-type glass to reduce cabin noise. Theres room to comfortably seat eight, or to seat seven with optional second row captains chairs. The reclining third row seats fold down flat for optimal cargo space and easy loading.

The highlander offers the Star Safety System; a suite of six active safety controls including Enhanced
Vehicle Stability Control, Traction Control, Anti-lock Brake System, Electric Brake-force Distribution, Brake Assist, and Smart Stop Technology. The Advanced Airbag System has 8 airbags with Roll-sensing Side Curtain Airbags for all rows.

The Entune Multimedia Bundle integrates an 8-in. high-res touch screen display, navigation, SiriusXM Satellite Radio, and a plethora of popular apps. Another cool feature in the Highlander is the three-zone automatic climate control, offering separate control panels for each cabin space.

The 2017 Toyota Highlander has a lot to offer this year. Combine the multitude of standard features with its reliable reputation and stellar value retention and it’s a stark victor for its class. Schedule a test drive or get updates on the new Highlander here.

Toyotas 86

The Scion FR-S was a breath of fresh air for sports car for enthusiasts and low budget thrill seekers alike during its rousing arrival in 2013. The acclaimed FR-S may have lost its platform in Scions ill-fated descent, but just as beautiful foliage remerges from ash, the 2017 Toyota 86 surfaces in a renewed wake of performance and style.

The Toyota 86 is powered by a potent 2.0 L 4 cylinder engine. Its paired with a close ratio 6 speed transmission that features a manual shift mode and comes standard with steering wheel mounted paddle shifters for maximum driving control and pleasure. The engine has an impressive output of 205 horsepower and generates 156 lb-ft of torque. The sport tuned suspension features revised spring rates and updated shock components to produce sharp turns and sturdy grip- great for carving corners with speed and precision. The versatility of this retuned suspension shines while comfortably gliding through the city.

Toyotas new 86 happily retains its strong, sporty hereditary traits such as its short stature, elongated hood and short rear. The front fascia has been given a lift and has been granted a slightly more aggressive grille that enhances the aero dynamicity and curb control on sharp turns. The interior of the 86 is just as distinct. The dash is clean and forthright, the seats are deeply bolstered and sunken to keep you in place, and the entire cabin is laden in subtle, masculine accents that impart a dramatic yet tranquil environment.

If you’re looking for a thrilling driving experience in a car that’s easy to drive and affordable, the 86 would be a stellar mate for you. One test drive and you’ll be wrapped around her little steering wheel for good. Get more information- or schedule a test drive- at our site here.

Toyota Tundra Recalls

               Toyota is recalling 73,000 of their 2016 and 2017 Toyota Tundra pickup trucks. All affected models are equipped with a rear bumper steps and reinforcement brackets made out of resin. The problem is within the resin itself. If the Tundra is involved in a collision that affects a rear corner of the truck, the resin may be damaged without the owner knowing there is a problem. And the next time someone tries to use the step, it could break and they could be injured.

                In order to remedy the issue, Toyota will replace the resin reinforcement brackets with steel ones. The rear bumper tread covers will also be replaced. The steel bracket should eliminate the issue. Toyota says affected owners will receive notifications by first-class mail starting in the middle of February, so the recall should start sometime after that.

                Additionally, Toyota has added another 543,000 vcehicles in the US to the Takata Airbag recall. Toyota announced the following models to be added to the list: the 2008-2009 Scion xB; 2009 and 2012 Corolla and Corolla Matrix, 2007-2009 and 2012 Toyota Yaris, 2012 4Runner and Sienna and various versions of Lexus made between 2006-2012.

                Takata uses the chemical ammonium nitrate to cause a small explosion designed to inflate the air bags in a crash. At least 16 people have been killed worldwide and about 180 have been injured. More than 100 million vehicles involving 17 automakers have been recalled worldwide. Because of the scope of the recalls, the replacements are going to take years.

                  Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-800-331-4331. You can schedule your service recall with us here at Smart Toyota. And while your vehicle is being fixed take a look at our inventory and contact us today to schedule an appointment.

A Prime Example of Hybrid Excellence

Toyota is the world leader when it comes to selling hybrid vehicles. And what do you do when you the best? You make yourself better. That is just what Toyota is doing with their second generation of the Prius.

                The new 2017 Toyota Prius Prime, which was released to dealerships in November, is now less expensive, better looking and more fuel efficient that the first-generation.  While running on full electric mode, the Prime can run for 25 miles. That isn’t quite as good as the Chevy Volt, which can run for 53 miles on just the battery, but the Prime surpasses the Volt when it comes to combined gas mileage with 54mpg to volt’s 42mpg. On a full tank of gas and a full battery charge, the Prius Prime can travel a total of 640 miles.

                The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety hasn’t yet tested the Prime for crashworthiness. The nonprofit group tests plug-in models separately due to structural and weight differences from the standard model. The regular Prius hybrid has earned the institute’s highest designation of Top Safety Pick+.

                The Prime seats four passengers and has more headroom than the previous model. It has a lower, wider stance and a more elongated body that creates a sleeker silhouette. Equipped with a rearview camera and a USB power are standard for the Prime. With Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity coming in the near future

                The Prius Prime starts at $27,100 and is eligible for $4,500 in federal tax credits. Check out our inventory of great hybrid vehicles and contact us now to take yours home today!

Toyota Recalls

Toyota released information on a new round of recently and it affects some of their more popular cars.

The first is on their brand new 20117 Toyota 86. And it affects a total of 94 cars. Those cars affected use an actual key to start the car versus have a push button ignition.  The problem relates to the key. During predelivery service, the automatic transmission key interlock may not be properly connected. If it's not properly connected, an owner may be able to remove the key while the car is in a gear other than park. This doesn't present a safety concern on the road, but it may cause owners to leave the vehicle in an incorrect gear, which can lead to roll-aways, crashes and injuries.  Toyota will be notifying all 94 owners by first-class mail in January. Upon returning the cars to dealerships, technicians will inspect the ignition key interlock. If necessary, they'll connect the interlock and that should solve the problem.

Toyota is also recalling 12 model year 2016 Avalon, and 2017 Camry vehicles manufactured August 3, 2016, to September 12, 2016. The front passenger knee air bag module may have been attached to the lower instrument panel with incorrect fasteners. If the air bag was installed with incorrect fasteners, the fasteners may become loose over time, affecting the air bag deployment and increasing the risk of injury.

Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the fasteners, and if necessary, replace the instrument panel brace and body bracket and reattach the air bag assembly, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin in December 2016.

Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-800-331-4331. You can schedule your service recall with us here at Smart Toyota. And while your vehicle is being fixed take a look at our inventory and contact us today to schedule an appointment.