Don't forget, our Facebook contest for a brand new TV ends TODAY!

Click here to "Like" our page and fill out the entry form under the "Enter to Win" tab. Who knows, you could be the lucky owner of a brand new 46'' flatscreen TV! Good luck to you all!

Gonzalo, we appreciate you taking the time to leave us this excellent review!

"Taking care of my wife's car over the phone. Is priceless." - Gonzalo C.

See more reviews of our dealership by clicking here.

Guess who didn't make it into the Toyota Hall of Fame...Jay Mohr, Bill Bellamy, and JB Smoove!

Time is running out to enter our drawing for a flatscreen TV!

"Like" our Facebook page, then visit the "Enter to Win" tab and fill out the entry form. Two easy steps and you will be one step closer to the prize! Click here to get started.

Start your new year off right with a brand new LCD flatscreen TV!

We are giving away a 46'' TV to one of our lucky Facebook fans! Be sure to "Like" our page and then fill out the entry form found under the "Enter to Win" tab! It is the holidays, folks, so be sure to spread the word! Click here to get started.

This concept car from Toyota shows off the fun nature and innovative spirit of the brand!

Start 2013 out on the right foot by getting behind the wheel of the new RAV4!

 

2013 Toyota RAV4 gets priced in the U.S.

 

The 2014 Toyota RAV4 is now available for order in the United States, where the model can be bought from 24,145 USD, for the LE entry-level version.

After it was officially presented to the public during the 2012 Los Angeles Auto Show, the 2013 Toyota RAV4 is being placed into the spotlights once again, this time with the Japanese based automaker announcing its price list in the United States. According to the car manufacturer, the new Toyota RAV4 is now available for order in the U.S., where the entry-level LE version can be bought from 24,145 USD, while the top of the line Limited starts at 29,255 USD.

The 2013 Toyota RAV4 will be powered by the 2.5 liter four-cylinder engine, mated to a six-speed automatic transmission, which is quite different from the 2012 Toyota RAV4, getting the 3.5 liter V6, along with a five-speed automatic transmission. All versions of the 2013 Toyota RAV4 will get the same engine under their hood and the model will be available in three trim levels, the LE, the XLE and the Limited, with the 2013 RAV4 XLE starting from 25,135 USD, shipping included. Standard features found on the new RAV4 include the 6.1-inch display audio unit with rearview camera, color-keyed door handles, color-keyed rear spoiler and 17-inch steel wheels. The model will go on sale in January.

 

Courtesy of In Auto News

Time is running out on our exclusive Facebook contest, so fill out your entry form now!

We will be giving away a 46'' LCD Flatscreen TV just in time for the new year. Click here to "Like" our Facebook page, then head over to the "Enter to Win" tab and fill out the form for your chance at this amazing prize. Don't forget to share this with your friends, the more the merrier!

Just the thing to spice up your Thursday afternoon...

Toyota racing fans rejoice...the brand is partnering with NASCAR for 2 events this spring!

Toyota Sponsoring Two NASCAR Races at Richmond International Raceway in 2013

Buckling up for two days of NASCAR excitement, Toyota and Richmond International Raceway announced today multi-year race entitlements, beginning with the April 26-27, 2013 doubleheader weekend at America’s Premier Short Track. The weekend features the Toyota Owners 400 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race and the ToyotaCare 250 NASCAR Nationwide Series race.
 
“This partnership allows us to align with a premium brand that has been supporting NASCAR for nearly a decade,” said RIR President Dennis Bickmeier. “These multi-year entitlements will allow Richmond International Raceway to continue delivering the high-quality events our fans have enjoyed for 60 years. To put on these NASCAR spectacles, we require two core ingredients: the fans and the sponsors – both of which drive our business and allow us to provide top-notch events.”
 
“Exclusive title sponsorship of the NASCAR Sprint Cup and Nationwide Races at Richmond International Raceway provides Toyota with unique opportunities in terms of activation with fans and spectators throughout the weekend," commented Keith Dahl, Toyota national manager-Engagement Marketing and Motorsports.

Toyota has a rich history at Richmond International Raceway. The auto manufacturer has seven NASCAR Sprint Cup Series wins (Kyle Busch, four; Denny Hamlin, two; Clint Bowyer, one) and five NASCAR Nationwide Series top finishes (Kyle Busch, two; Denny Hamlin, two; Kurt Busch, one), and has served as the Official Pace Car at RIR.
 
Toyota made its NASCAR debut in 2004 when it became the first new engine manufacturer to compete full-time in one of NASCAR’s top three levels of competition in more than 50 years, when it entered the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series. In 2007, Toyota entered the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series and NASCAR Nationwide Series by debuting the Camry in both series.
 
The Camry is built at Toyota manufacturing facilities in Georgetown, Ky., and Lafayette, Ind., and has been the best-selling car in America for 10 straight years, and 14 of the past 15. The 2013 NASCAR season will feature the introduction of the new 2013 Camry race car with an updated and more unique identity.
 
Tickets for the Toyota Owners 400 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race and the ToyotaCare 250 NASCAR Nationwide Series race went on sale last Friday, Dec. 7.

 

Courtesy of Toyota USA Newsroom

Don't miss out on your chance to enter our drawing for a flatscreen TV!

Click here to "like" our Facebook page, then fill out the entry form under the "Enter to Win" tab. Pass the word along so that your friends can have a shot at the prize, too! Good luck to all!

A huge thanks goes out to this customer for leaving us an awesome review!

"I've never bought a car before, and Mike Calvert Toyota made it a largely painless experience." - Customer

There is so much more to this amazing review, click here to see it all.

Going holiday shopping this weekend? You can drop off toy donations at our dealership!

Together we can help Toys for Tots in their quest to deliver holiday cheer to underprivileged children. All it takes is a little help from our community...we can help make the holidays special for everyone!

Did you miss out on the RAV4's debut at the LA Auto Show? See what everyone has been talking about!

How would you like the chance to win a new 46'' LCD flatscreen TV?

Click here to head over to our Facebook page. Make sure you "like" our page and then fill out the form under our "Enter to Win" tab. Don't forget to share this with your friends so that they can have a shot at the TV as well!

Just when we thought that Toyotathon couldn't get any better!

 

Toyota Centers Second Annual Shareathon on Twitter

With Twitter and social media at the center of the campaign, Toyota Motor Sales USA launched its second annual Shareathon program Monday.

Customers can tweet about their plans to buy or a lease a new Toyota during Toyotathon and earn a $500 prepaid debit card.

Building on the success of last year’s program, the automaker highlighted this year’s Shareathon includes an additional reward program for those who rally their followers to retweet the original message.

Each retweet can increase the debit card amount by $50, up to a maximum of $500 from these retweets for a total of $1,000.

Through Dec. 21, shoppers who register online at www.toyota.com/shareathon, tweet a scripted Shareathon message and then purchase or lease a new Toyota vehicle on or before Jan. 3, 2012 will be eligible for a certificate and unique coupon code redeemable for a $500 prepaid debit card.

Participants will then have 48 hours to encourage their followers to retweet the initial message.

As an added bonus, OEM officials mentioned those followers who retweet the message will be entered to win a 2011 Prius from Toyota.

Beginning at 11 a.m. EST on each day of the program, the company explained certificates will be available to the first 140 people who register on the site and tweet about their plans to get a new Toyota during Toyotathon.

After the new vehicle is purchased, officials indicated each participant will need his or her unique coupon code and VIN to receive the prepaid debit card.

Participants must submit for redemption no later than Jan. 31.

In addition to enabling users to register for the program, officials think the Shareathon site will also generate interactive visualizations tracking the original tweets and their subsequent retweets.

Users can see the journey of their tweets — as well as the tweets of others — mapped out in circular graphs in which each point represents a retweet with color-coding to distinguish original retweets from second- and third-generation retweets.

“This year Shareathon not only rewards shoppers for tweeting about their plans for a new Toyota, but is also a fun and unique way for us to engage their friends and followers,” stated Kimberley Gardiner, national digital marketing and social media manager for Toyota.

“Last year’s Shareathon was such a huge success that we decided to add an incremental element to expand the social footprint and impact of the program,” Gardiner continued.

Toyota stressed the Shareathon promotion is separate from any existing incentive programs that may currently be in place.

For official rules and to learn more, visit www.toyota.com/shareathon or .

 

Courtesy of Auto Remarketing

This pre-owned Sienna is the perfect vehicle to fit the whole family...and some friends!

This 2011 Toyota has very low mileage and is in superb condition. It also has a long list of amenities, like keyless entry, a back-up camera, satellite radio, and privacy glass. Click here to request more information or schedule a test drive.

Don't let Toyotathon pass you by, come on in and check out our amazing specials!

Is your vehicle in need of a tire rotation? We have got the perfect deal for you!

Click here to print out our coupon for a tire balance and rotation, with a complimentary brake inspection, all for $39.95! Call us now to schedule your appointment.

Toyotathon, the biggest sales event of the year, is in full swing at our dealership!

We have Toyotathon savings and incentives on a huge selection of vehicles, including the 2013 Corolla. Click here to see the three offers that we have going on this vehicle, whether you are looking to lease or own.

The all new 2013 Toyota Avalon has arrived at out dealership!

Do you want to see what has everyone so excited? Come on in and test drive a brand new Avalon for yourself!

Get here early on Black Friday for great deals and discounts, plus a chance to win a FREE flat screen TV!

That's right, folks, we have a flat screen up for grabs! To be entered in a drawing for the TV, purchase any NEW Toyota by 5pm this Friday, November 23rd. After the drawing, we will alert the winner on Facebook. Also, we will have deals going on all day on all of our vehicles, so be sure to make this a stop on your Black Friday shopping trip!

If you have been thinking about purchasing a 2013 Scion FR-S, now is the time!

We have two Scion FR-S 2013's currently in stock. They are available with manual transmission, and they come in two desirable colors, Lava and Asphalt. These will go quick, so please call Normal 0 false false false EN-US X-NONE X-NONE MicrosoftInternetExplorer4 713-558-8291 to schedule an appointment.

Take a look back at the excitement leading up to SEMA in the Toyota Racing Dream Build Challenge!

This 2011 Toyota Highlander is a must see, but hurry, it will go quick!

This pre-owned SUV has 4WD and plenty of safety features. To check out all of its extras, like privacy glass and keyless entry, click here.

Toyota proves that talking cars are not just for science fiction!

Toyota Tests Cars That Communicate with Each Other

Toyota Motor Corp. is testing car safety systems that allow vehicles to communicate with each other and with the roads they are on in a just completed facility in Japan the size of three baseball stadiums.

The cars at the Intelligent Transport System site receive information from sensors and transmitters installed on the streets to minimize the risk of accidents in situations such as missing a red traffic light, cars advancing from blind spots and pedestrians crossing the street. The system also tests cars that transmit such information to each other.

In a test drive for reporters Monday, the presence of a pedestrian triggered a beeping sound in the car and a picture of a person popped up on a screen in front of the driver. A picture of an arrow popped up to indicate an approaching car at an intersection. An electronic female voice said, "It's a red light," if the driver was about to ignore a red light.

The 3.5 hectare test site looks much like the artificial roads at driving schools, except bigger, and is in a corner of the Japanese automaker's technology center near Mount Fuji in Shizuoka Prefecture, central Japan.

Toyota officials said the smart-car technology it is developing will be tested on some Japanese roads starting in 2014. Similar tests are planned for the U.S., although details were not decided. Such technology is expected to be effective because half of car accidents happen at intersections, according to Toyota.

Managing Officer Moritaka Yoshida said Toyota sees preventing collisions, watching out for pedestrians and helping the driving of the elderly as key to ensuring safety in the cars of the future.

"We offer the world's top-level technology," he told reporters.

All automakers are working on pre-crash safety technology to add value to their cars, especially for developed markets such as the U.S., Europe and Japan. But the strongest sales growth is coming from emerging markets which are eventually expected to show more interest in safety technology.

Toyota also showed a new feature that helps the driver brake harder to prevent bumping into the vehicle in front. Toyota officials said drivers often fail to push hard on their brakes in such situations because they get into a panic.

Toyota has also developed sonar sensors that help drivers avoid crashing in parking lots. One system even knows when the driver pushes on the gas pedal by mistake instead of the brakes, and will stop automatically.

Rear-end collisions make up 34 percent of car accidents in Japan, comprising the biggest category, followed by head-on collisions at 27 percent.

Cars that stop and go on their own, avoiding accidents, are not pure science fiction, experts say.

Alberto Broggi, professor at the University of Parma and an expert on intelligent transportation systems, said the idea of the accident-free cars is "very hot," and probably within reach on some roads within several years.

"I'm sure we will arrive to such a technology even if I don't know when exactly," he said.

 

Courtesy of Sci-Tech Today

First comes a clay sculpture, then comes the sleek and stylish Toyota Avalon!

Following these car care tips can help you extend the life of your Toyota!

Drive with care everyday

• Do not race your car’s engine during start-up.This is a quick way to add years of wear to your engine, especially if it’s cold outside.
• Accelerate slowly when you begin your drive.The most wear to the engine and drive train occurs in the first ten to twenty minutes of operation.
• Warming the engine by letting it idle in the driveway is not a smart idea.The engine doesn’t operate at its peak temperature, resulting in incomplete fuel combustion, soot deposits on cylinder walls, oil contamination, and ultimately damaged components.
• Put less strain on your engine and automatic transmission by shifting to neutral at red lights. Otherwise, the engine is still working to push the car even while it’s stopped.
• Avoid driving at high speeds and accelerating quickly, especially when it’s very hot or very cold outside. Such driving behavior will result in more frequent repairs.
• Extend the life of your tires with careful driving. Observe posted speed limits. Avoid fast starts, stops, and turns. Avoid potholes and objects on the road. Don’t run over curbs or hit the tire against the curb when parking. And, of course, don’t burn rubber.
• When turning your steering wheel, don’t hold it in an extreme right or left position for more than a few seconds. Doing so can damage the power-steering pump.
• Consolidate your short driving trips. Most of the wear and tear — as well as the pollution your car generates — takes place in the first few minutes of driving. Doing several errands at once, during low traffic hours if possible, will keep your engine happier longer.

 

Courtesy of Reader's Digest

The winner has been crowned in the Toyota Racing Dream Build Challenge!

Kyle Busch and ‘Rowdy Edition’ Camry Win

All the votes are counted and the fans have spoken: Kyle Busch and his track-inspired black-on-black "Rowdy Edition" Camry have won the Toyota Racing Dream Build Challenge.

Busch's efforts earned a check from Toyota for $50,000 that goes to his chosen charity for the competition, the Kyle Busch Foundation. Toyota made the announcement today at the SEMA Show with the help of TV racing commentator and Top Gear USA host, Rutledge Wood, master of ceremonies for the event.

"My wife's going to have a lot of Christmas gifts to get again this year," said Busch. "The kids at the Kyle Busch Foundation are going to love that. We appreciate Toyota's support, everybody that's been a part of this program, all my friends here, all my competitors that we had to go up against and my friends at Detroit Speed for building such as awesome piece. I'm really looking forward to seeing Ed put this out on the road."

"Every one of the Dream Build Challenge teams delivered in a big way," said Toyota Marketing Communications and Motorsports Vice President Ed Laukes. "You couldn't ask for a more diverse, creative and exciting group of vehicles. The drivers and teams should be proud."

As Toyota Motor reported, the competition began two months ago, when Toyota announced the friendly contest among four of its top racing drivers—each competing for his or her favorite charity. Along with Busch, fellow Toyota NASCAR driver Clint Bowyer and NHRA pilots Alexis DeJoria and Antron Brown each assembled teams to create their own dream build vehicles. The result was four spectacular and completely unique builds that have caught the attention of fans and auto enthusiasts everywhere.

The build process was documented extensively on the Dream Build Facebook page where anyone could follow team progress via photos and video and vote for their favorites, with opportunities to win great prizes along the way. The Grand Prize is a Dream Race Trip to the winner's choice of either a NASCAR or NHRA race event. The winner will be announced at a later date.

 

Courtesy of Financial Channel

If you have been looking for the perfect pre-owned truck, look no further than this Tacoma!

With 4WD, brake assist, and off-road tires, you can take your new truck anywhere! Click here to learn about its low mileage and other features.

Everyone has great things to say about the 2013 Toyota Avalon, especially Martha Stewart!

Toyota is bringing two different concepts of the 2013 Avalon to the SEMA show in Las Vegas

New Toyota Avalons Built for SEMA Take Divergent Paths Toward Similar Goals

Toyota's recently introduced 2013 Avalon is set to enter the market this fall with a radically new design that moves the styling needle distinctly toward passion and excitement. To demonstrate the possibilities of the new premium mid-size sedan, the company created two new concepts that are scheduled to bow on Oct. 30 at the SEMA Show in Las Vegas.

"The new Avalon is an attractive target for performance enhancement," said Toyota Engagement Marketing and Motorsports National Manager Keith Dahl. "Tuners always want to get their hands on a great new design with strong enthusiast appeal."

2013 Avalon TRD Edition
With performance firmly in their wheelhouse, Toyota Racing Development (TRD) created a concept that builds on the strength of the new car's inherently sporty styling and dynamics by taking each a couple of steps further without losing the "sweet spot."

Using the 3.5-liter V6 gasoline-powered Avalon, TRD added one of its signature supercharger systems to bump engine power and torque substantially while maintaining smooth driveability. The cleanly integrated design also fits neatly in the Avalon engine bay.

Handling is enhanced with a spring/shock package that lowers the car about one inch to improve body control and steering response. Stiffer rear subframe bushings and modified steering characteristics also enhance control while increasing road feel. Sticky Michelin Pilot Super Sport tires on custom 19-inch wheels complete the handling picture. Braking power is substantially upgraded with a TRD Big Brake kit sporting six-piston front and four-piston rear calipers on large cross-drilled spiral-vane rotors.

Exterior changes build on the Avalon's already sporty nature with two-tone custom paint, a color-keyed grille and tinted taillights with clear lenses. Dual exhaust with polished mufflers and custom tips finish the look.

The TRD Edition Avalon also gets a major interior upgrade with gradient-design perforated leather seating plus red accent piping and stitching. Custom instrument and door panels are also leather covered, again with red stitching. And to make sure the music is as memorable as the driving, TRD installed a thumping JBL GreenEdgeTM surround-sound audio system with 15 speakers and two trunk-mounted 500W amplifiers.

TRD EDITION SPECIFICATIONS

Engine

• TRD supercharger incorporating Eaton Gen 6 TVS rotor assembly

Drivetrain

• Six-speed automatic transmission

Suspension and Brakes

• Cold-rolled steel coil springs that lower vehicle approximately one inch front and rear
• KYB gas-pressured mono-tube shocks with custom valving
• Stiffer rear subframe bushings
• Modified steering assist, damping and hysteresis characteristics
• Brake calipers: Front six-piston; rear four-piston with patented bolt-in bridges
• Brake rotors: Front 380 X 32 mm; rear 345 X 28 mm cross-drilled with patented spiral-vane design

Exterior

• 19-inch custom wheel design with three-stage paint
• 225/40R19 Michelin Pilot Super Sport tires
• Two-tone custom paint scheme
• Tinted taillights with clear inner and outer lenses
• Custom color-keyed grille
• Dual exhaust with high-polished mufflers and custom tips

Interior

• Graduated perforated leather with red piping and stitching
• Black technical knit headliner
• Custom door panels and instrument panel with black leather and red accent stitching
• JBL GreenEdgeTM surround sound system with 15 speakers
• Two trunk-mounted JBL 500W GTI D-class amplifiers

2013 SEMA Avalon HV Edition
The Avalon HV Edition is based on the all-new Avalon Hybrid which shares the same essential body and chassis design with its V6-powered sibling. And like the TRD Edition, the HV highlights the potential of the new car, but with a noticeable nod to hybrid efficiency in its presentation.

Bright white primary and electric blue accent colors outside speak to ambitions for a cleaner environment. The theme extends to exterior details such as hybrid-blue headlights, tail- lights and turn signals, plus a color-keyed custom grille.

The bright white and blue theme also enhances the Avalon's already contemporary interior design with blue-silver metallic leather and white perforated leather seat inserts, as well as crisp blue stitching and dashboard accents. Multi-color hybrid instrument panel and rear console interior lights are also featured. And a 15-speaker JBL GreenEdgeTM surround-sound audio system cranks up the music volume and quality.

Not to be outdone by its SEMA sibling, the HV gets a similar suspension, brake and tire package to ensure responsive handling and firmer body control. Wheels are also the 19-inch variety but with a unique design.

Starting Oct. 30, both of these new and unique Avalons can be seen along with seven other custom-built Toyota vehicles in the Toyota display booth (#24801) located in Central Hall at the 2012 SEMA Show.

HV EDITION SPECIFICATIONS

Engine and Drivetrain

• Toyota Hybrid Synergy Drive

Suspension and Brakes

• Cold-rolled steel coil springs that lower vehicle approximately one inch front and rear
• KYB gas-pressured mono-tube shocks with custom valving
• Stiffer rear subframe bushings
• Modified steering assist, damping and hysteresis characteristics
• Brake calipers: Front six-piston; rear four-piston with patented bolt-in bridges
• Brake rotors: Front 380 X 32 mm; rear 345 X 28 mm cross-drilled with patented spiral-vane design

Exterior

• 19-inch custom wheel design with three-stage paint
• 225/40R19 Michelin Pilot Super Sport tires
• Hybrid blue taillights with clear inner and outer lenses
• Hybrid blue front turn signal and headlight assemblies
• Custom color-keyed grille
• Dark chrome ring badge with custom blue hybrid accent

Interior

• Blue silver metallic leather with white perforated leather seat inserts
• White technical knit headliner
• Custom door panels and instrument panel with embossed white leather and blue accent stitching
• JBL GreenEdgeTM surround sound system with 15 speakers
• Hybrid instrument panel and rear console interior lights (multi-color)

 

Courtesy of Toyota Newsroom

Our online scheduler makes it easy to book a service appointment with our expert technicians

Regular maintenance is essential to keeping your vehicle running at its best. Click here to see how easy it is to schedule your appointment.

The Toyota Venza passes an All Wheel Drive Traction Test with flying colors!

Get a great deal on this pre-owned 2010 Toyota Corolla that is priced to sell!

With low mileage and tons of safety features, this Corolla is a purchase you can feel great about. Click here to see all of its awesome features.

Toyota continues to raise the bar when it comes to creating alternative energy and reducing emissions

Toyota Powers-Up First of its Kind Stationary Fuel Cell

Furthering its commitment to alternative energy and the environment, Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc. (TMS) activated today a new 1.1-megawatt hydrogen fuel cell generator on the Torrance headquarters campus.

The fuel cell will supply approximately half of the electricity for six headquarters buildings during peak demand, while producing zero emissions. Designed and built by Ballard Power Systems, the proprietary Proton Exchange Membrane (PEM) stationary fuel cell is the largest PEM fuel cell of its kind. The fuel cell is powered by hydrogen gas fed directly from a pre-existing industrial hydrogen pipeline, also a first for this technology. This direct power source allows Toyota to reduce utility grid electricity usage during peak power demand. The same hydrogen pipeline also supplies a hydrogen filling station adjacent to the TMS campus used to fuel Toyota's and other manufacturers fuel cell hybrid vehicle fleets.

'Supporting alternative energy sources like hydrogen supports Toyota's overarching commitment to lessen our impact on the environment and drive forward innovative technology,' said Bob Daly, TMS senior vice president. 'Not only will this new hydrogen fuel cell generator reduce the environmental footprint of our headquarters campus, but it showcases the power and potential of hydrogen as a fuel source.'

At 1.1 MW, the clean energy fuel cell system on average provides enough power for about 765 homes, twice the capacity of Toyota's existing solar panel system on campus. It is expected to reduce CO2 emissions by 3.3 million pounds during summer peak period operating hours, the equivalent to taking 294 cars off the road a year.

The Toyota Fuel Cell Hybrid Vehicle - Advanced (FCHV-adv) is also powered by PEM fuel cell technology. PEM technology is uniquely suited for stationary applications as it provides quick power availability vs. a long 'warm up' period prior to power generation.

Hydrogen within the dedicated pipeline is provided by Air Products and created from natural gas reformation. To mitigate emissions from the reformation process, hydrogen used on Toyota's campus will be offset with the purchase of landfill generated renewable bio-gas. Operation of the stationary fuel cell creates zero air emissions.

Electricity generated by the fuel cell fuel is expected to save Toyota approximately $130,000 a year in reduced energy purchased from Southern California Edison.

'Our partnership with Toyota demonstrates the flexibility and positive impact fuel cell technology can have for high volume companies,' said Paul Cass, Ballard Power Systems vice president, operations. 'The clean energy fuel cell system provides forward-thinking companies a way to manage peak energy demand or continuously meet power needs.'

Additional project funding was provided by Sustainable Development Technology Canada and California's Self-Generation Incentive Program.

 

Courtesy of Equities

With Halloween just around the corner we wanted to brush up on some fun facts!

1. Because the movie Halloween (1978) was on such a tight budget, they had to use the cheapest mask they could find for the character Michael Meyers, which turned out to be a William Shatner Star Trek mask. Shatner initially didn’t know the mask was in his likeness, but when he found out years later, he said he was honored.
2. The first Jack O’Lanterns were actually made from turnips.
3. Halloween is the second highest grossing commercial holiday after Christmas.
4. The word “witch” comes from the Old English wicce, meaning “wise woman.” In fact, wiccan were highly respected people at one time. According to popular belief, witches held one of their two main meetings, or sabbats, on Halloween night.
5. 
     Samhainophobia is the fear of Halloween.
6. Fifty percent of kids prefer to receive chocolate candy for Halloween, compared with 24% who prefer non-chocolate candy and 10% who preferred gum.
7. The owl is a popular Halloween image. In Medieval Europe, owls were thought to be witches, and to hear an owl's call meant someone was about to die.
8. According to Irish legend, Jack O’Lanterns are named after a stingy man named Jack who, because he tricked the devil several times, was forbidden entrance into both heaven and hell. He was condemned to wander the Earth, waving his lantern to lead people away from their paths.
9. The largest pumpkin ever measured was grown by Norm Craven, who broke the world record in 1993 with a 836 lb. pumpkin.
10. Stephen Clarke holds the record for the world’s fastest pumpkin carving time: 24.03 seconds, smashing his previous record of 54.72 seconds. The rules of the competition state that the pumpkin must weigh less than 24 pounds and be carved in a traditional way, which requires at least eyes, nose, ears, and a mouth.

Courtesy of Random Facts

This catchy tune will you have you humming along as you welcome the fourth member of the Prius family!

This brand new 2012 Toyota 4Runner is a perfect for everyday errands or unexpected roadtrips

With 4 Wheel Drive and Traction Control, you will be able to take this 4Runner on any adventure! Click here to see the rest of the amazing feature that this Toyota has to offer.

We all watched the Tundra tow the Endeavour, now find out what it took to make it happen!

How a 2012 Toyota Tundra Towed an Icon

Late Friday night, near two local icons — the notorious 405 Freeway and popular snack spot Randy’s Donuts — another icon hitched a ride to its new home. For most of the way from LAX to the California Science Center, the Space Shuttle Endeavour was going to ride on a modified version of a NASA overland transporter. According to collectspace.com, this rig had originally been used to take the Shuttles from the plant where they were built in Palmdale, California, to Edwards Air Force Base.

 

For this Shuttle’s journey, the transporter would be driven by four robotic vehicles. Overseeing it all was a guy operating a joystick used to steer all four as he walked alongside the Shuttle. There was one problem, though: the weight of the four robotic vehicles plus the Endeavour, approximately 650,000 pounds, was going to be too heavy to cross the Manchester Bridge. The California Science Center would have to figure out another way.

The Tundra in question was a bone-stock CrewMax with a 6.5-foot bed and the 381-horsepower, 5.7-liter V-8, rolling off the same line in San Antonio, Texas, as all Toyota Tundras do. This Tundra used the company’s A-TRAC system and four-wheel drive to provide the traction the truck  would need to move the Shuttle from a stop; of course, the Toyota came equipped with the tow package. Toyota had done tests ahead of time with a higher amount of weight than the Shuttle/transporter combo, and it did well there.

Sitting on Manchester Boulevard, ready to roll, there was still plenty of prep work to complete before the tow began. By the time press and VIPs arrived, the Shuttle had been disconnected from the robotic dollys and waited for its connection to the back of the Tundra, where it would be towed not with a gooseneck or fifth-wheel, but with a regular-size steel hitch. The power was disconnected at Randy’s — there would be no donuts for onlookers — and there were portable lights near and on the bridge to illuminate the move. Power lines had been raised to ensure the immense Shuttle wouldn’t snag them. Light poles and signals were rotated out of the way. Hordes of fans stood along the streets in anticipation of this event.

The dollys were so heavy they had to go over the bridge one at a time. They went over first. Then, after Toyota got video crews and GoPro video cameras set up, there were a couple of tests, and the truck was ready. Despite what people may think, this was a bone-stock Tundra. No, it was not pushed from behind. No, it did not have the advantage of going downhill. Stunt driver Matthew McBride was behind the wheel, and it was not his first time in that seat. If you recall the Tundra ad where the truck is being tested on uphill spiraling ramp in the Mojave Desert, McBride was the driver there as well.

So how did the Tundra do it? By going really, really slowly. The truck was set to take the Shuttle over the bridge at 2.5 mph, in 4-Lo. We had heard it would take about 7 minutes for the pair to get to the other side. But from our vantage point (and admittedly without a radar gun), it looked like the Tundra hauled the Endeavour faster than that.

Cheers of “USA! USA! USA!” could be heard from the crowd as the Tundra and Endeavour crossed the bridge. After hours of anticipation on this evening, and weeks of planning, the bridge crossing was over in the blink of an eye. Once it had completely crossed, the 405 reopened, Randy’s was ready to start making donuts again, and the Shuttle would be reconnected to the robotic dollys and go on the final 9 miles of its final journey. (video by Jim Gleason)

 

Courtesy of Motor Trend

Toyota made history this weekend as the Tundra successfully transported the iconic Endeavour!

Watch history unfold as the Toyota Tundra tows the Space Shuttle Endeavour!

Click here to watch the countdown, view a tour of the shuttle, and track the progress at The Tundra Endeavour's website!

There are only two days left until the Toyota Tundra takes on the job of a lifetime!

This white hot 2011 Dodge Charger SE is a must see!

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The clock is ticking for ambitious car builders in the Toyota Racing Dream Build Challenge

Teams Hustle to Complete their Builds on Time for the Toyota Racing Dream Build Challenge

Customizing a vehicle can often be broken down into a series of tasks that can then be scheduled and executed—at least until the clock runs out. Then all bets are off. And so it goes for the Toyota Racing Dream Build Challenge teams with time to complete their ambitious builds coming to a close in about two weeks, just before voting begins on October 20. And just like a race car, these one-off rides must be ready to go when the green flag drops.

Kyle Busch's "Rowdy Edition" Camry is "getting close." Busch's team at Detroit Speed has extensively reworked the Camry's body with strong fender flares, a NASCAR-style splitter and front and rear belly pans to direct airflow under the car. All of these parts have been custom designed and fabricated by hand—a painstaking and time-consuming process. More recently, the team has been scrambling to finish custom interior touches with completely redone seats and a custom electronic entertainment package.

Getting a complex collection of custom-built electronics to work seamlessly in his "Tekked-Out Prius" seems to be keeping Clint Bowyer's RKM Performance Center team awake into the wee hours. It's loaded with hi-tech gadgets like side-view cameras that replace the mirrors, 45 feet. of fiber optic interior lighting and a 16-speaker stereo with six crossovers and dual amplifiers. Then there's the suspension which has dropped the Prius "lower than a Sprint Cup car." And, there’s certainly no lack of team spirit as their build will sport no less than 364 copies of the Toyota logo.
Alexis DeJoria's Pre-Runner Tundra concept has her Racer Engineering team working on virtually every aspect of the truck. Long-travel suspension (20 inches in the rear), an elaborate custom roll cage wrapped in leather, and a TRD-supercharged engine are all part of her design to make a serious off-road tool. The team is also squeezing in a JBL audio system and a specially-built fuel cell. It’s all more than enough to keep them busy right up to the due date.

Some builds are more ambitious than others, and Antron Brown's “DragQuoia” is a big concept that's challenging its capable builders. The "family dragster" idea means that whatever they do has to leave room for the family to ride safely and comfortably. And they're doing quite a lot. For starters, the Motorsports Technical Center team is lopping more than 2,000 lbs. off the factory curb weight. A TRD blower and nitrous coax the 5.7-liter V8 to pump out more than 650 hp for those "quick" runs to the supermarket. Massive 21.5-inch wide rear tires put the power to the ground, which in turn need big fender mods—inside and out—to keep the hot rubber bits contained in the wheel wells. Fortunately, Junior will have a comfortable perch in the back to view the scenery rushing by, secured with his own five-point racing harness. And between runs, he can watch his favorite DVD on the seat-back media player.

Every one of the Dream Build vehicle teams has the chops and experience to deliver for their driver. The simple question on delivery day may come down to this: Which team will be the least sleep deprived.

All four of the Toyota Racing Dream Build Challenge vehicles will be unveiled at the Toyota display during the company's press conference on October 30 at the 2012 SEMA Show. Fans can vote for their favorite team beginning on October 20 and may vote once per day through October 29.

 

Courtesy of Toyota Pressroom

Getting in a wreck is a real hassle, but not at our Collision Center!

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Toyota takes pride in giving America's heroes jobs

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The Radically New 2013 Toyota Avalon

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A little over two weeks is all that's left until the Tundra tows Endeavour! Get an astronaut's perspective of what it's like to blast off into space.

Don't miss out on the great deals we're offering on our Facebook page!

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Toyota will make more than 1 million hybrids this year

"Meet the new boss. Same as the old boss."

The Who lyric seems apropos, given the news that Toyota may double its hybrid-vehicle production this year and will maintain that sales level for the next three years as it expands both the number of hybrid models it offers and sales efforts to markets throughout Asia.

The world's largest hybrid-vehicle maker will "well surpass 1 million units" sold in 2012 and will exceed that 1-million-hybrid annual sales level for 2013 through 2015, Toyota said in a statement Monday. Toyota also plans to debut no fewer than 21 new hybrid models during the next three years.

Toyota's 2001 hybrid sales were hampered by an earthquake and tsunami that struck Japan in March 2011. It has doubled U.S. sales this year compared to last year. Through August, the company sold more than 221,000 hybrids in the U.S., including more than 199,000 Prius hybrids. Domestic sales have been helped by Toyota's expansion of the Prius line to include compact (Prius C), wagon (Prius V) and plug-in hybrid variants. Toyota also sells hybrid versions of the Camry and Highlander.

 

Courtesy of green.autoblog.com

Congratulations to Andrew in the service department for this great review from a satisfied customer!

"Great service! will certainly come back to Mike Calvert for servicing my Prius! Thank you Andrew in the service center! You're a life-saver!" - R. S.

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Car Care Tip: Use a toothbrush to clean hard to reach crevices

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Get a paint brush and a toothbrush. These are the two best tools for accessing hard-to-reach cracks, crevices and corners. The paint brush is great for reaching into deep locations. Vacuum with one hand as you brush those hard-to-reach locations, and you'll quickly clean up tricky spots. Leave both brushes in your glove compartment, so you'll have them when you stop by your local car wash and vacuum emporium.

 

Courtesy of cartalk.com

We could tell you all day how great the Camry is, but it's better to hear it from Camry owners!

In need of a rental car? We're your destination!

Why should I choose Toyota Rent a Car of Houston instead of another rental company?
Our name gives the best reason of all... we rent only Toyota vehicles and at competitive prices. As a brand that represents quality, know that your rental vehicle will have those same characteristics that you look for when you buy. Don't settle just because it is a rental.

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In need of a rental car? We're your destination!

Why should I choose Toyota Rent a Car of Houston instead of another rental company?
Our name gives the best reason of all... we rent only Toyota vehicles and at competitive prices. As a brand that represents quality, know that your rental vehicle will have those same characteristics that you look for when you buy. Don't settle just because it is a rental.

Visit our website for more details. 

Toyota confirms that the Auris will not be a replacement for the Matrix

A replacement for the Toyota Matrix is indeed long overdue, but according to Automotive News, a successor to the Japanese automaker's tall hatchback won't be found in the new 2013 Auris hatchback.

Hiroya Fujita, chief engineer of the Matrix and the Japanese-spec Corolla, says that Toyota has no plans to offer the Auris in the United States, citing that demand for hatchbacks in the U.S. is still too weak. (Or is it?) Automotive News reports that Fujita declined to comment on a replacement for the Matrix, which still rides on the old MC platform that has underpinned the last three generations of Corolla models.

A brand new Corolla is in the pipeline for the U.S., but with no certain future for the Matrix in sight, AN suggests that Toyota's larger five-door may simply die.

 

Courtesy of autoblog.com

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Check out the Tundra as it prepares to tow the Space Shuttle Endeavour

Toyota Tundra to Tow Space Shuttle Endeavour on Last Leg of Journey to the California Science Center

Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc. (TMS) announced today that the Toyota Tundra full-size pickup truck is slated to tow the space shuttle Endeavour during its final journey to the California Science Center on October 13, 2012, where it will go on permanent display. The Endeavour will travel a total of 12 miles from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) on city streets to the Science Center, with the Tundra towing the last quarter mile.

Tested extensively prior to the announcement, the 2012 Tundra is slated to safely tow the 300,000 pound historic artifact down Bill Robertson Lane in Exposition Park, near downtown Los Angeles, on the final leg of its journey. Endeavour will be towed using a stock 2012 Tundra CrewMax 1/2–ton pickup, identical to models currently found in Toyota dealerships, with no additional modifications made to increase towing capacity or generate more power. The Tundra CrewMax is equipped with Toyota’s powerful 5.7L V8 engine, producing a maximum tow capacity of 10,000 lbs. TMS has done extensive testing and worked with The Sarens Group, a heavy lifting and engineered transport company, to develop a dolly specifically for hauling the Endeavour.

“There is no larger or more recognizable icon of the U.S. space program’s success than the shuttle, and to have it towed by the Toyota Tundra is not only an incredible example of the capabilities of the truck, but an honor to be part of history,” said Ed Laukes, TMS vice president of marketing communications. “The entire journey is something the world will be watching, and gives us a chance to prove that the ‘overbuilt’ Tundra is built to do any job – even tow the space shuttle.”

Participation in the transportation of the shuttle is part of an ongoing partnership between TMS and the Science Center in an effort to provide support and awareness of the space program and continuing education of the public through exhibits and programs. Toyota currently has a Tundra truck on display in a Science Center exhibit demonstrating the physics of leverage. The tow Tundra will replace the existing Tundra and will be on display after the Endeavour exhibit opens on October 30, 2012.

At the end of the Endeavour’s 12 mile journey from LAX to the Science Center, a “finish-line” celebration at Exposition Park is planned for the evening of October 13, as the shuttle arrives at the Science Center, allowing the public to witness the finale of this historic voyage.

 

Courtesy of pressroom.toyota.com

On this 11th anniversary, we honor those who lost their lives in that senseless tragedy.

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Coach T recruits for Toyota Corolla and Camry: "Driver's Ed"

Congratulations to our Team on Receiving These Outstanding Reviews!

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Toyota seriously considering sporty Avalon

Like its Cressida ancestor, Toyota's Avalon has long focused on easy living comfort and value over sex appeal. Conservative sheetmetal, a cushy ride, space to spread out and general ease-of-use have historically made the brand's largest sedan popular among the elderly. But the new 2013 Avalon brings with it markedly more expressive styling that suggests Toyota is no longer content to cater to the end-of-life demographic. This shift away from a more traditional value set to edgier design and content is one the entire large non-premium sedan segment seems to be embracing – witness the newly upscale 2014 Chevrolet Impala, as well as the sculpted flanks of the 2012 Hyundai Azera and Ford Taurus.

The 2013 model's noticeably svelter sheetmetal, with its bolder front end and flowing greenhouse announce Toyota's intent, but it's features like a Sport mode and paddle shifters that really telegraph the Avalon's newfound vigor and more aspirational mission. And Toyota officials tell Autoblog that the already-shown V6 and hybrid models are just the beginning – a stand-alone sport model is also under serious consideration.

According to Randy Stephens, the model's chief engineer, a trio of Avalon concepts is headed to SEMA this October, with two of them having been completed internally – unusual for Toyota. The pair of concepts conceived in-house will have a performance bent, with at least one featuring an off-the-shelf supercharger from the company's TRD parts bin in Australia (the same forced-induction setup used in the Lotus Evora S). The house-built Avalons are said to not be as outrageously styled as most SEMA vehicles tend to be, in large measure because Toyota plans to weigh public opinion with an eye toward a production run.

When asked if a sportier production Avalon model would be similar to the current Camry model's SE trim, Stephens quickly and decisively said, "No. It has to be more real." By "more real," Stephens means that a hotter Avalon would have to actually offer augmented performance. A production supercharged model? Highly unlikely. A performance tune of the Avalon's 2GR-FE 3.5-liter V6 (268 horsepower, 248 pound-feet of torque) is more plausible, along with a reworked suspension and appropriate visuals. With the 2013 model's switch to electric power steering, it would also be easy to remap the wheel's turn-in and weight.

The Georgetown, Kentucky-built Avalon hits dealers this fall in both standard and hybrid flavors. If given the green light, a performance will probably take another couple of years.

 

Courtesy of autoblog.com

This weekend is your last chance to get 0% for 60 months on Camrys!

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A big thanks to John for writing a great review for our body shop on Yelp!

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Next-generation 2014 Toyota Corolla caught testing in U.S.

Given the level of competition in the compact segment, these recent spy photos show that Toyota is getting serious with its next-generation Corolla. As the second-best-selling nameplate in the world, the last few Toyota Corolla redesigns have been rather minor, but based on these pictures, the new car will get much more competitive styling.

The boxy lines of the current Corolla seem to be replaced with a sportier look that includes a sloped hood and a shorter decklid borrowing design cues from new cars like the 2013 Toyota Avalon and 2012 Toyota Camry. From what we can see of the front end, the headlights have a rounded, scalloped shape similar to the new Avalon while the taillights match the L-shaped design of the Camry. The car pictured here appears to be a higher trim level, with what appear to be HID headlights, fog lights and possibly even LED taillights. Like the outside, the interior of this test mule is heavily cloaked with camouflage, but we can make out the new three-gauge instrument cluster that replaces the current car's two-gauge layout, and this upscale model includes chrome trim around the edges.

In terms of powertrain changes, an updated version of the 1.8-liter four will likely bring more power and better fuel economy, and big changes should come to the transmission. A six-speed automatic should replace the aging four-speed used in the current Corolla, and there's speculation a continuously variable transmission could be offered. Since a 40-mpg EPA highway rating has become the de facto standard in the compact sedan segment, we expect vastly improved fuel economy numbers from whatever new powertrain Toyota drops in this car.

Production of the 2014 Toyota Corolla is expected to begin during the second quarter of 2013, so we wouldn't be surprised to see this car on display at the L.A. Auto Show or Detroit Auto Show.

 

Courtesy of autoblog.com

This cute bright red 2010 Corolla is priced right, keeping you and your wallet happy.

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Check out Team Toyota as they hit the beach!

This 2007 Tundra is a smokin' deal, there's no better work truck solution!

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