Toyota,Tesla to reveal electric Rav4 next week

It's been nearly two years since Toyota announced its collaboration with Tesla Motors to bring an electric version of the RAV4 to market in 2012. We first saw what the vehicle might be like through a demonstration prototype unveiled at the 2010 L.A. Auto Show.

Toyota now is preparing unveil its fully engineered Rav4 EV at the 26th World Electric Vehicle Symposium and Exposition next Monday.

The one tease we have of the new electric Rav4 is the badge on the door near the rocker panel (above). Later this year, Toyota will begin production of the jointly developed EV at its Woodstock plant in Ontario, where the current Rav4 is built.

Toyota paid Tesla about $100 million to supply the Rav4 EV's powertrain, including the battery, motor, gearbox and power electronics. Toyota says the Rav4 EV's range could reach about 100 miles, which is what most carmakers quote for their EVs before EPA testing that typically dials that back a bit.

There's no word yet if the Rav4 EV is based off a new Rav4 design or the current vehicle, which has been on the market for nearly six years now.

 

Courtesy of USA Today

Tweaks add to luster of popular Toyota Camry

No car in America outsells the Toyota Camry. So when the Japanese automaker turned its design attention toward a seventh generation of the high-volume midsize sedan, the results were more subtle than a creeping shadow.

The 2012 Camry has the same dimensions of length, width and wheelbase of its predecessor with new materials trimming 150 pounds from the overall weight. There is a slightly different profile with a more raked windshield and freshened taillights being the most noticeable alterations.

Inside, though, is another story. It’s hard not to be impressed by the new leather dashboard that has a layered effect with full-length flap and pronounced stitching. Very classy. The instrument panel is new, and a 6.1-inch touchscreen absorbs many functions.

All Camrys now have a 60/40 split/folding rear seat that enhances a 15.4 cubic foot trunk. Rear seat passengers also gain a bit more legroom from past models.

The base engine is a 178-horsepower, 2.5-liter 4-cylinder that teams with a 6-speed automatic transmission to offer quick-start response and adequate performance in all operations. For those desiring a V-6 engine, a 268-horsepower, 3.5-liter should do the trick.

Camrys come in L, LE, XLE and SE trims. Prices start at $21,955 for an L and extend to $29,845 for an XLE with a V-6 engine. The SE comes with a sport-tuned suspension. There is also a hybrid version that is treated separately.

I tested the XLE with a 4-cylinder engine that started at $24,725. With a power sunroof, power front seats, dual-zone automatic climate controls, heated power mirrors, fog lights, alloy wheels and 17-inch tires on top of the L and LE features, this was a well-equipped car. Three extensive option packages brought leather interior, navigation, push-button start, back-up camera and Toyota’s Entune multimedia system that links a smartphone to dining and entertainment options via the touchscreen.

Among the keys to the Toyota Camry’s success has 
been that it can be many things to many people.

While it may not be the perfect car, it’s proven good enough to be No. 1.

Toyota 100 Cars for Good: Carolina Canines for Service

Carolina Canines for Service in Wilmington, North Carolina, uses the Toyota Sienna Mobility they won to help partner talented service dogs with disabled individuals who need their help. These dogs can help do many tasks people take for granted, including going up stairs, opening doors and even doing the laundry.

To find out more and learn how to help, visit http://www.caninesforservice.org

Toyota Prius plug-in hybrid - Charged up about our latest test car

The one Prius every hardcore green-car enthusiast has been waiting for, the Prius plug-in hybrid, has finally arrived at dealerships. And we just took delivery of ours.

The Prius hybrid seemed such a natural for additional electric-only capability that aftermarket plug-in conversions have been available for at least five years. In fact, we had our previous-generation Prius converted back in 2008. Now, at last, Toyota is offering its own, bona fide in-house plug-in version. We've also driven its precursor, Toyota's experimental Prius plug-in back in 2010.

Prices start at $32,000 for the factory-built plug in, as opposed to $25,565 for a comparable regular Prius. The Advanced trim line model we bought featured a pre-collision system, navigation, and a power driver seat. The sticker price came to $40,285—a $9,720 premium over the highest trim conventional Prius. That's comparable to what you'd pay for a Chevrolet Volt, but the federal tax credit for the Prius plug-in is only $2,500, as opposed to $7,500 for the Volt and other pure EVs. It does qualify for driving in HOV (High Occupancy Vehicle) lanes, as do other hybrids, in some areas. So far, it's available only in 14 mostly Northeastern and West Coast states.

The plug-in version uses a lithium-ion battery in place of the Prius's regular nickel-metal hydride battery. The plug-in is designed to run as a pure electric for 11 miles and then revert to regular Prius operation, which combines electric and gas operation. But if you thought you'd be using electricity exclusively for 11 miles, you'd soon discover that's not the case. As soon as you press the throttle farther than about a third of its travel, the internal combustion engine kicks in and you're using fuel. So, unlike the Volt, the Prius plug-in is never an unequivocal EV, even for the portion that's supposed to be gas-free.

A button that displays HV-EV can lock out (reserve) the EV portion in case, say, you're on the highway and you want to save the EV driving for downtown. We've nudged the car up to 60 mph on electric propulsion alone as long as we kept a light touch on the throttle pedal. Braking and coasting creates regenerating power that racks up "credit" miles for EV use.

Charging takes an hour and a half using a 240-volt supply and three hours on 110 volts, according to Toyota. We haven't established a pattern yet, but as soon as we start commuting in it regularly we'll report what we find. The EPA rates the Prius plug-in at 95 mpg equivalent in its electric mode and 50 mpg once it operates as a regular hybrid. That works out to some 2.8 miles per kilowatt hour of electricity in the EPA's method of reckoning, which is about par for the course among electric vehicles to date.

Other than the added purchase price, trade offs for the plug-in include the hassle (or joy) of plugging-in, and the substitution of the spare tire with a repair kit that includes a compressor. In terms of driving, it benefits from the same comfortable ride and relatively spacious interior.

The Prius plug-in's natural competitors are the "extended range" gas/electric Volt, the pure-electric Nissan Leaf, and upcoming Ford Focus electric. We suspect some EV enthusiasts will be disappointed at the plug-in's relative eagerness to turn its engine on, but Toyota's conservative ways have resonated with many consumers in the past. Clearly, the consumer will have an increasing number of choices as more electrified choices roll out.

University Motors Collision Center

Did you know that University Motors has their own collision center? If you've been involved in a collision, our premiere body shop will repair your vehicle and get you back on the road in no time. Our body shop works with most insurance plans to make the process as easy as possible for you. From dings, dents and scratches to damage from a fender bender or major collision, we have the equipment and experience to return your vehicle to its prime. Our state of the art paint mixing equipment and paint booth also provide the perfect finishing touch to any body work. Stop in for a free collision estimate or call or email us to schedule your collision appointment!

Toyota Prius v adds size, depth to the hybrid line

What, the question could be asked, is Toyota getting at with its latest incarnation of the Prius? The gas-electric hybrid sedan that offers exceptional mileage, surprising space and eco-friendly 
characteristics has made a mark in this country for more than a decade.

Evidently we didn’t know all that a Prius could be. So for 2012 Toyota has added a “v” version, which is categorized as a wagon and primarily adds even more space to the framework.

The “v” stands for versatility. In case you are wondering what more there is to the Toyota Prius v, Wheels editor Jimmy Dinsmore and freelance automotive writer David Mikesell are here with some answers.

JIMMY: This was my first time behind the wheel of a Prius. I’ve seen the original Prius sedan on the road (heck, you can throw a rock in any direction and hit one). The Prius v has a better look to it than the original. It is six inches longer, 3.3 inches higher and 1.1 inches wider. It’s bigger and, for me, that’s good. I found the original Prius sedan to be too squatty. Not so with the Prius v, as it looks more like a station wagon, but still with that same Prius look. Dave, did you find the bigger size affected the way the Prius drove?

DAVE: Like a middle-aged man’s expanding waistline — hey, I’m taking a shot at myself here — the Prius v is 230 pounds heavier than the sedan. Where this comes into play is in performance and mileage. The 1.8-liter 
 4-cylinder gas engine and battery-powered electric motor propels the v from 0-60 mph in 10.4 seconds, an increase in time of more than a half-second for the sedan. Spry, it’s not. The plus is that the standard all-out Power mode can be switched to all-electric EV mode for speeds of 25 mph or less for a short distance or to ECO mode to lessen throttle response and air conditioning. Still the EPA mileage ratings, while impressive at 44 mpg city and 40 mpg highway, fall short of the Prius’ 51 mpg city and 48 mpg highway.

JIMMY: You said it wasn’t spry, and truer words have never been written. But, the Prius v does manage to get out of its own way on the highway. Once at a speed, it maintains its performance well. The ride is comfortable, and obviously very quiet. I found the turning radius of the Prius v to be especially wide, considering it still isn’t a big vehicle. In this regard, it performed very much like a station wagon.

DAVE: Where the Prius v stands out is in the amount of space available for cargo. There’s so much space that Toyota says it ranks in the upper quarter of mid-size wagons and compact sport-utility vehicles. There is 34.3 cubic feet of space behind the back seats compared to 21.6 feet for the Prius sedan. With the split/folding rear seat down (it also slides 7.1 inches fore and aft) and the front-passenger seat folded there is 67.3 cubic feet of space.

JIMMY: My tester came fully loaded with the advanced technology package (and additional $5,500). With this you get a 7-inch touch screen and backup camera, a USB port for device connectivity, a parking guidance system and a panoramic view moonroof (does not open). And, the best part is access to Toyota’s Entune system. Connect your smart phone and enjoy all that Entune provides including Pandora radio. You can also get live traffic updates, sports scores and even local fuel prices (not that you need that in this fuel-sipper).

DAVE: The Prius v comes in trims named Two, Three and Five (no Four yet, unlike the Prius c, which is a story for another time) with prices starting at $26,400 — more than 10 percent beyond that of the Prius. The Three gets a navigation system and satellite radio and starts at $27,165 while the Five checks in at $29,900. I drove the latter with its accompanying heated vinyl seats, fog lights, LED headlights, universal garage door opener and 17-inch tires in place of 16-inchers.

JIMMY: I studied Latin for six years in high school and college. Prius is a Latin word that means “first or prior.” You can take the translation a step further and say it means ahead of its time. And that certainly applies to the Prius, which is iconic among the hybrid vehicles. While the Prius may not be a vehicle for everyone, the Prius v is definitely a vehicle to consider for those looking to save on fuel costs and still have enough room for living.

Jimmy Dinsmore is Wheels 
Editor for Cox Media Group Ohio and Dave Mikesell is a freelance automotive reviewer based in
Indianapolis. Across Generations looks at similar vehicles from two different perspectives.

 

 

Courtesy of Middletownjournal.com

Toyota Working On Mood-Sensing Cars

We may soon be able to drive cars that will know if we’ve had a rough day or whether we’re about to fall asleep behind the wheel.

That’s the premise of new mood-sensing technology Toyota is working on in an effort to build safer cars.

We first brought you details on the technology back in 2006 but since then it has been built into a working model that can identify the emotional state of a driver and react if necessary.

Some of the actions the system can take include producing more safety reminders if the driver seems distracted or even directly controlling a vehicle either by braking or steering to avoid an obstacle.

An angry driver, for example, could be alerted of a potential hazard such as a child crossing the road much earlier than a driver who is in a calm or neutral state. Additionally, the system can detect which direction the driver is facing so could warn of a hazard located in the opposite direction that the driver is looking in.

The technology works by using sensors that take readings from 238 separate points all over the driver’s face and calculates the emotion from them all equally. This means that it will work even if a driver’s face is partially covered, such as when he or she is wearing sunglasses. The technology is even being enhanced so that it can recognize what a driver is doing, such as looking at their phone or controlling the radio, and then offer to help so that the driver can stay focused on the road.

Speaking with What Car?, one of the technology’s lead developers at Toyota, Jonas Ambeck, explained that the technology is still in its infancy though we could see some elements of it in Toyota’s cars in around six years.

Toyota 100 Cars for Good: Camp Casey

Camp Casey in Detroit uses the Toyota Tundra they won to tow Moe the horse, to visit and brighten the days of children with cancer. These "Horsey House Calls" bring smiles to children with cancer throughout Detroit, and Camp Casey hopes the Tundra will help move them toward their goal of becoming a nationwide organization.

Prius c: Toyota’s new`gateway’ to hybrid efficiency

Touted as the “gateway to the Prius family,” Toyota introduces its new  2012 Prius c subcompact with a $18,960 starting price. This compares to the standard Prius Liftback’s $24,000 base MSRP. 

Four grades — labeled One, Two, Three and Four — are offered with the top-line model having a $23,230 starting price. The Prius c, with “c” representing “city,” is designed to be an urban-friendly vehicle that will appeal to younger consumers. 

It’s smaller than the midsize Prius Liftback — 19.1 inches shorter and 542 pounds lighter. Toyota boasts the Prius c has the “highest-rated fuel economy estimate of any vehicle without a plug.” Its estimated fuel-economy rating is 53 miles per gallon city, 46 mpg highway and 50 mpg combined. These figures fit real-world conditions, with the test vehicle, driven roughly 70 percent on the highway, getting between 49-51 mpg. 

Like its larger sibling, the Prius c is propelled by Toyota’s Hybrid Synergy Drive system, basically consisting of a gasoline engine, electric motor with continuously variable transaxle and a nickel-metal hydride battery. The gas engine is a 1.5-liter four-cylinder, producing 73 horsepower and 82 lb.-ft. of torque. Teamed with the electric motor, total hybrid system output is 99 horsepower. 

Acceleration is respectable, with hard throttle coaxing a soft whirring sound. Steering is responsive and ride quality is good, albeit on the firm side. 

The Prius c can be operated in three drive modes: Normal, Eco and EV mode. In Eco mode, climate-control operation is minimized and throttle control regulated to boost vehicle efficiency. Selecting EV mode allows the Prius c to be driven via electric power only for just under a mile.　 

Keeping tabs on the hybrid system’s energy flow and fuel consumption can be accomplished via a multi-information screen in a display atop the dash. “Training” the driver to operate the vehicle in an eco-efficient manner is an ECO Score display, providing feedback on driving habits. Fuel-consumption history also can be checked on the screen. 

Automatic climate control, tilt-telescopic steering wheel and remote keyless entry are among the base model’s standard features. The Prius c Two, base priced at $19,900, provides upgrades such as a six-speaker audio system, 60/40-split fold-down rear seat, center console with armrest and storage compartment, and a hard cargo-area cover. 

Technology, featuring improved audio and connectivity, is the advantage with the Prius c Three, which ups the base price to $21,635. Added is a Display Audio System with navigation and Entune that’s linked to a 6.1-inch touchscreen. Also included are Sirius XM Satellite Radio capability; HD Radio with iTunes Tagging; USB port with iPod connectivity and control; vehicle information with customizable settings; and advanced voice recognition. The Display Audio System also provides updates on hybrid system energy flow and trip information. 

A visual pop comes with the Prius c Four model, which adds 15-inch, eight-spoke alloy wheels, integrated foglamps and color-keyed heated power outside mirrors. Sixteen-inch, eight-spoke alloy wheels are optional. 

In base form the Prius c has a sleek, aerodynamic look and impressive 0.28 coefficient of drag number. Shortly past the stopping point of the steeply raked expansive windshield and A-pillars, the roof takes a steep slant to a body-colored rear roof spoiler. The body widens below the beltline and is muscled-up with sculpted rear fender flares. 

Eye-popping colors add to the flair of the spunky-looking hatchback. The test car is painted a bold orange-ish Habanero — one of nine available colors. 

Inside, designers created a fresh, stylish two-tone treatment. Black is the basic color and is paired with a contrasting color — mainly gray. The dashboard is clean and modern looking with an interestingly framed center stack and artsy arching lines crisscrossing the facing on the passenger side. 

Seats are firm, and front legroom and headroom (even with the optional moonroof) are generous. For a subcompact, rear headroom and legroom also are surprisingly good. 

Protecting passengers are nine standard airbags. 

Your thoughts on Toyota’s more-affordable Prius model?

 

Courtesy of Top Down Auto Blog

Toyota brings back the "100 Cars for Good" program for 2012!

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[[posterous-content:pid___0]]Toyota is bringing back the ‘100 Cars for Good’ program!   For the second straight year, Toyota is working with Facebook to honor organizations across the county for their hard work and dedication.  Toyota will be awarding 100 vehicles to 100 Nonprofit organizations over the course of 100 days!  Help promote a local Nonprofit you know and allow them to be awarded for all the good they do year round.  Here’s how: 

·         An independent panel of judges will now select 500 finalists from Facebook.  Each finalist will have to submit a video that explains how a new Toyota vehicle will help their mission in the greater good

·         Public voting will then begin in Monday, May 14^th with the 500 finalist that were selected.  Every day thereafter, for 100 days, 5 Nonprofits will be featured on the Toyota USA Facebook page and members of the public will vote for their favorite.  The winner will then choose out of 6 2012 Toyota models they wish to have.

Make sure you stay posted for updates! You can help change the lives of many when you vote.

 

The Sensational New 2013 Toyota Avalon Makes World Debut at the 2012 New York International Auto Show

Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A. revealed the all-new 2013 Avalon premium mid-size sedan today at the 2012 New York International Auto Show. The new Avalon is re-conceived for the premium mid-size sedan segment with a progressive and emotionally styled exterior design.

When it arrives to dealerships late this year, the new Avalon will offer improved dynamic performance, a greater degree of refinement, and a highly spacious, comfortable interior experience with an abundance of outstanding convenience technologies.

The new 2013 Avalon is the result of a North American-focused design and engineering effort. The new sedan’s dramatic exterior and interior design was conceived by a youthful and talented team at the Calty Design Research Inc. facilities in Southern California and Michigan. The car’s engineering development was principally led by a passionate and dedicated group based at Toyota Technical Center in Ann Arbor, Mich. Continuing a North American focused theme, the 2013 Avalon will be assembled at Toyota’s facility in Georgetown, Ky. True to the future product mission set forth by Toyota Motor Corporation President, Akio Toyoda, the new Avalon’s more stylish, bold, sporty exterior design and luxurious interior styling are matched by an enhanced dynamic package, a combination that foreshadows the more compelling and passionate nature of future Toyota products.
 
Enhanced Avalon Dynamics
In addition to its stunning design, numerous structural and chassis improvements were made to the new Avalon to enhance the ride quality, straight-line stability and handling. The body structure gains improvements in torsional rigidity thanks to additional and strategically placed welds, improved body bracing, and high-strength steel in key areas in order to provide a stiffer chassis and optimize suspension performance. The new Avalon suspension relies on MacPherson struts with advanced valving and rebound springs to balance handling and agility with ride comfort. Coil spring rate and front and rear sway bar stiffness was increased from the current model to help improve body control and body roll. The Avalon’s electric power steering (EPS) system has been tuned to help deliver enhanced controllability and vehicle agility while also realizing superior linear stability.

The new Avalon offers three distinct drive modes that help tailor dynamic performance to the driver’s needs. The drive modes - Normal, Eco, and Sport -are made available through driver-selectable switches. In Sport mode, throttle response is enhanced and steering effort is weighted from center to offer a sportier character. Eco changes throttle response and A/C power usage to help improve fuel economy. Steering-wheel mounted paddle shifters help provide a sportier drive while in the D or S Mode, where the revised throttle helps improve shift response to help maximize engine power and vehicle performance.

Dynamic Exterior Styling
The new Avalon’s dynamic exterior styling defines a sleek and expressive profile that helps communicate a sense of motion for the vehicle even when it is at rest. The beltline has been lowered to accentuate a strong stance. Compared to its predecessor, the new Avalon is a bit more compact yet displays better proportions with a longer, sloping roofline, flared front fenders, and reduced front and rear overhangs, lower vehicle height, and reduced body-to-tire gap. New 17-inch and 18-inch alloy wheel and tire combinations fill the wheel well to enhance the vehicle’s dynamic exterior expression.

Key exterior design elements include the square Double-eye PES (Projector Ellipsoid System) headlamps with HID (High-Intensity Discharge)and elegant DRL (Daytime Running Lights) feature available that provide excellent night time visibility while helping define a narrower, more taut and muscular exterior expression. A wider, more assertive grille design provides a bolder front perspective. At the rear, high-performance LED combination tail lamps are adopted which are more integrated with the revised rear-body styling. The dual rear tailpipe outlets further the more cohesive design theme.

Modern Interior Experience
Design elements enhancing comfort, convenience and technology help create the luxurious experience that will prove tempting to buyers of the next Avalon. The 2013 Avalon offers a modern, spacious, premium interior highlighted by abundant rear seat legroom, while featuring a myriad of available features. Beyond mere dimensions, the new Avalon’s interior design enhances the cabin’s sense of spaciousness and comfort. The front seat’s hip point has been lowered by 10 millimeters (0.4 inches) to help create improved headroom. The new power front seat design with increased side bolstering is more supportive and offers an expanded range of downward adjustment. In addition, the structural components of the sunroof and the headliner design have been optimized to help increase the cabin’s roominess. A concave dash panel design, located in front of the passenger, helps create an expansive feeling. While the rear overhang has been reduced by 1.7 inches, the luggage compartment capacity is 16.0 cubic feet, an increase of 1.6 cubic feet as compared to the outgoing model.

The Avalon’s premium interior attains a high level of refinement by reducing wind, engine and road noise inside the cabin. The resultant interior is even significantly quieter and more comfortable than the current Avalon and it creates an ideal environment to enjoy conversation, music or Toyota’s available multimedia system, Entune™. Sound absorbing materials have been strategically placed around the cabin and body structure while not inhibiting a reduction in overall vehicle weight. The windshield and front side-glass panels utilize acoustic glass that helps control sound intrusion into the cabin. Reductions in wind noise have been realized by optimizing exterior shape, specifically cowl and louver sealing, outer mirror shape and position, and wiper-blade position, which have all been developed to dramatically reduce wind noise generation. Exterior gaps and steps have also been minimized to reduce wind noise around the door glass areas.

The new Avalon’s interior utilizes premium materials and a high degree of craftsmanship to offer an upscale experience. Rich, supple leather trims the steering wheel, shift knob, and seat upholstery helping add visual and tactile appeal. Hand-crafted, decorative stitching is adopted for the steering wheel, and soft-touch materials on the dash panel and door trim elevate the vehicle’s sense of tactile luxury. Smoked chrome-metallic accents are applied to the instrument panel, center console, door panel, and steering wheel surfaces to help add distinction and exceptional feel. Available push-button controlled soft white ambient lighting illuminates key regions of the interior to help convey the sense of luxury. The new Avalon’s center console includes a convenient console tray that is ideal for the storage of electronic hand held devices. The new Avalon’s console area is equipped with a USB port, AUX input terminal and three 12-volt power outlets to help facilitate device interface and charging.

The new Avalon will offer innovative technologies such as advanced capacitive touch switches with positioning and sensitivity that makes them ideal for vehicle system controls. Other premium in-car technologies include three color display screens that support the multi-information display, the audio/navigation interface, and the climate control panel. An easy to use Display Audio system with 6.1 inch touchscreen is standard on the new Avalon; while a JBL Synthesis Premium Audio system, HDD Premium Navigation with 7” screen, dynamic radar cruise control, heated and cooled front seats, heated rear seats, and a three-zone air conditioning system are also on the list of available features and equipment.

Safety
Like all Toyota models, the new Avalon will feature Toyota’s Star Safety System™ standard, which includes Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Traction Control (TRAC), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist, and Smart Stop Technology brake-override system.

The new Avalon helps to prioritize occupant safety with a best-in-class10 airbags system. A Pre-collision system is also available that is designed to “sense” an impending frontal collision and can help mitigate damage. A variable ratio brake pedal is adopted that varies the initial and final pedal effort ratios to help realize excellent brake pedal feel.

In addition to a rearview monitor, Avalon offers an available Blind Spot Monitoring system which is designed to help detect vehicles behind the outer mirrors and to help alert drivers in addition to a new Rear Cross Traffic Alert system (RCTA) that can alert drivers of cross traffic when they are backing up.

 

Courtesy of Toyota Media

0% APR for 60 months on a 2012 RAV4

In the market for a new car? Then you'll probably want to take a look at this new 2012 RAV4, which you can get right now at 0% APR for 60 months! This offer only lasts through April though, so you better get down here soon.

 

The Sensational New 2013 Toyota Avalon Makes World Debut at the 2012 New York International Auto Show

NEW YORK, (April 5, 2012) – Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A. revealed the all-new 2013 Avalon premium mid-size sedan today at the 2012 New York International Auto Show. The new Avalon is re-conceived for the premium mid-size sedan segment with a progressive and emotionally styled exterior design.

When it arrives to dealerships late this year, the new Avalon will offer improved dynamic performance, a greater degree of refinement, and a highly spacious, comfortable interior experience with an abundance of outstanding convenience technologies.

The new 2013 Avalon is the result of a North American-focused design and engineering effort. The new sedan’s dramatic exterior and interior design was conceived by a youthful and talented team at the Calty Design Research Inc. facilities in Southern California and Michigan. The car’s engineering development was principally led by a passionate and dedicated group based at Toyota Technical Center in Ann Arbor, Mich. Continuing a North American focused theme, the 2013 Avalon will be assembled at Toyota’s facility in Georgetown, Ky. True to the future product mission set forth by Toyota Motor Corporation President, Akio Toyoda, the new Avalon’s more stylish, bold, sporty exterior design and luxurious interior styling are matched by an enhanced dynamic package, a combination that foreshadows the more compelling and passionate nature of future Toyota products.

Enhanced Avalon Dynamics
In addition to its stunning design, numerous structural and chassis improvements were made to the new Avalon to enhance the ride quality, straight-line stability and handling. The body structure gains improvements in torsional rigidity thanks to additional and strategically placed welds, improved body bracing, and high-strength steel in key areas in order to provide a stiffer chassis and optimize suspension performance. The new Avalon suspension relies on MacPherson struts with advanced valving and rebound springs to balance handling and agility with ride comfort. Coil spring rate and front and rear sway bar stiffness was increased from the current model to help improve body control and body roll. The Avalon’s electric power steering (EPS) system has been tuned to help deliver enhanced controllability and vehicle agility while also realizing superior linear stability.

The new Avalon offers three distinct drive modes that help tailor dynamic performance to the driver’s needs. The drive modes - Normal, Eco, and Sport -are made available through driver-selectable switches. In Sport mode, throttle response is enhanced and steering effort is weighted from center to offer a sportier character. Eco changes throttle response and A/C power usage to help improve fuel economy. Steering-wheel mounted paddle shifters help provide a sportier drive while in the D or S Mode, where the revised throttle helps improve shift response to help maximize engine power and vehicle performance.

Dynamic Exterior Styling
The new Avalon’s dynamic exterior styling defines a sleek and expressive profile that helps communicate a sense of motion for the vehicle even when it is at rest. The beltline has been lowered to accentuate a strong stance. Compared to its predecessor, the new Avalon is a bit more compact yet displays better proportions with a longer, sloping roofline, flared front fenders, and reduced front and rear overhangs, lower vehicle height, and reduced body-to-tire gap. New 17-inch and 18-inch alloy wheel and tire combinations fill the wheel well to enhance the vehicle’s dynamic exterior expression.

Key exterior design elements include the square Double-eye PES (Projector Ellipsoid System) headlamps with HID (High-Intensity Discharge)and elegant DRL (Daytime Running Lights) feature available that provide excellent night time visibility while helping define a narrower, more taut and muscular exterior expression. A wider, more assertive grille design provides a bolder front perspective. At the rear, high-performance LED combination tail lamps are adopted which are more integrated with the revised rear-body styling. The dual rear tailpipe outlets further the more cohesive design theme.

Modern Interior Experience
Design elements enhancing comfort, convenience and technology help create the luxurious experience that will prove tempting to buyers of the next Avalon. The 2013 Avalon offers a modern, spacious, premium interior highlighted by abundant rear seat legroom, while featuring a myriad of available features. Beyond mere dimensions, the new Avalon’s interior design enhances the cabin’s sense of spaciousness and comfort. The front seat’s hip point has been lowered by 10 millimeters (0.4 inches) to help create improved headroom. The new power front seat design with increased side bolstering is more supportive and offers an expanded range of downward adjustment. In addition, the structural components of the sunroof and the headliner design have been optimized to help increase the cabin’s roominess. A concave dash panel design, located in front of the passenger, helps create an expansive feeling. While the rear overhang has been reduced by 1.7 inches, the luggage compartment capacity is 16.0 cubic feet, an increase of 1.6 cubic feet as compared to the outgoing model.

The Avalon’s premium interior attains a high level of refinement by reducing wind, engine and road noise inside the cabin. The resultant interior is even significantly quieter and more comfortable than the current Avalon and it creates an ideal environment to enjoy conversation, music or Toyota’s available multimedia system, Entune™. Sound absorbing materials have been strategically placed around the cabin and body structure while not inhibiting a reduction in overall vehicle weight. The windshield and front side-glass panels utilize acoustic glass that helps control sound intrusion into the cabin. Reductions in wind noise have been realized by optimizing exterior shape, specifically cowl and louver sealing, outer mirror shape and position, and wiper-blade position, which have all been developed to dramatically reduce wind noise generation. Exterior gaps and steps have also been minimized to reduce wind noise around the door glass areas.

The new Avalon’s interior utilizes premium materials and a high degree of craftsmanship to offer an upscale experience. Rich, supple leather trims the steering wheel, shift knob, and seat upholstery helping add visual and tactile appeal. Hand-crafted, decorative stitching is adopted for the steering wheel, and soft-touch materials on the dash panel and door trim elevate the vehicle’s sense of tactile luxury. Smoked chrome-metallic accents are applied to the instrument panel, center console, door panel, and steering wheel surfaces to help add distinction and exceptional feel. Available push-button controlled soft white ambient lighting illuminates key regions of the interior to help convey the sense of luxury. The new Avalon’s center console includes a convenient console tray that is ideal for the storage of electronic hand held devices. The new Avalon’s console area is equipped with a USB port, AUX input terminal and three 12-volt power outlets to help facilitate device interface and charging.

The new Avalon will offer innovative technologies such as advanced capacitive touch switches with positioning and sensitivity that makes them ideal for vehicle system controls. Other premium in-car technologies include three color display screens that support the multi-information display, the audio/navigation interface, and the climate control panel. An easy to use Display Audio system with 6.1 inch touchscreen is standard on the new Avalon; while a JBL Synthesis Premium Audio system, HDD Premium Navigation with 7” screen, dynamic radar cruise control, heated and cooled front seats, heated rear seats, and a three-zone air conditioning system are also on the list of available features and equipment.

Safety
Like all Toyota models, the new Avalon will feature Toyota’s Star Safety System™ standard, which includes Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Traction Control (TRAC), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist, and Smart Stop Technology brake-override system.

The new Avalon helps to prioritize occupant safety with a best-in-class10 airbags system. A Pre-collision system is also available that is designed to “sense” an impending frontal collision and can help mitigate damage. A variable ratio brake pedal is adopted that varies the initial and final pedal effort ratios to help realize excellent brake pedal feel.

In addition to a rearview monitor, Avalon offers an available Blind Spot Monitoring system which is designed to help detect vehicles behind the outer mirrors and to help alert drivers in addition to a new Rear Cross Traffic Alert system (RCTA) that can alert drivers of cross traffic when they are backing up.

 

Courtesy of Toyota Media

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Toyota Sets Prius Sales Record on Bigger Lineup, Gas Prices

Toyota Motor Corp. (7203)’s U.S. sales of Prius hybrids reached a record in March and in the first quarter, propelled by higher gasoline prices and two new models.

Toyota, the largest seller of gasoline-electric autos, sold 28,711 units in March of the Prius “family,” now comprising a plug-in Prius and c subcompact, the original hatchback and v wagon, the company said today in an e-mailed statement. Prius sales surged 54 percent from a year ago, and topped the previous monthly best of 24,009 set in May 2007.

First-quarter sales for the world’s best-selling alternative powertrain car keeps Toyota on track to meet a goal of 220,000 Prius sales in the U.S. this year, up from 136,463 in 2011. The vehicle accounts for half of U.S. hybrid sales. A shortage of the car last year due to Japan’s earthquake and tsunami cut industrywide deliveries to about 273,000 units from about 275,000 a year earlier, according to data compiled by Bloomberg.

“At this pace, and with the recovery in the U.S. economy, Toyota’s target for Prius sales looks fairly doable,” said Takashi Aoki, senior fund manager at Mizuho Asset Management Co. in Tokyo.

Toyota’s American depositary receipts fell 0.5 percent to $86.22 at the close of trading in New York.

First-Quarter Record

First-quarter Prius sales were 60,859. The model’s best previous quarter was April-June 2007, said Celeste Migliore, a spokeswoman for the company’s U.S. sales unit in Torrance, California.

“Toyota’s move to raise the price of their bigger Prius models is a good sign that the company is trying to make the models more profitable, too,” Aoki said, citing the carmaker’s planned $150 price increase for the v wagon model.

Hybrid sales typically track the cost of gasoline, rising in line with pump price increases. Regular grade gasoline cost an average of $3.92 (3AGSREG) a gallon on April 2, up from $3.28 at the end of last year, according to AAA’s Daily Fuel Gauge.

“Fuel economy remains a top purchase consideration among consumers, and we are pleased with the continued response to Toyota’s lineup,” Bob Carter, group vice president of U.S. sales, said in an e-mail yesterday.

The original Prius hatchback and the Prius c are rated as delivering an average of 50 miles (80 kilometers) per gallon in combined city and highway driving by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. The Prius v wagon averages 42 mpg and the plug-in Prius, able to go as far as 15 miles on electricity alone, is rated as getting 95 mpg-equivalent when drivers frequently recharge the lithium-ion battery pack, according to the EPA.

The Toyota City, Japan-based company today reported combined sales of Toyota, Lexus and Scion models of 203,282 vehicles from a year ago, a 15 percent increase, matching the average estimate of seven analysts surveyed by Bloomberg News.

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