Some of the Best Bells and Whistles Can’t Be Seen or Heard

Some of the Best Bells and Whistles Can’t Be Seen or Heard

• Advanced Pre-Collision Safety System Helps Driver Avoid Accidents in 2014 Lexus LS Luxury Flagship Sedan
• Available Night-Detection Capabilities Help Driver Recognize Stationary and Moving Objects
• LS Brought to Full Stop at Low Speeds

TORRANCE, Calif., (Nov. 27, 2013) – Sometimes things just come out of nowhere when driving on the road.  Drivers may not see an obstacle, but the Lexus LS available Advanced Pre-Collision System (A-PCS) is designed to detect it and bring the car to a full stop.

The LS flagship luxury sedan models have offered bold styling, superior craftsmanship and dynamic handling for nearly 25 years. Now, as the LS embarks on its third decade in the premium luxury category, it blends modern refinement with advanced technology and safety options.

Available safety enhancements include the Advanced Pre-Collision Safety (A-PCS) system with collision avoidance assist. This system is designed to assist the driver in avoiding or mitigating collisions with vehicles and pedestrians under a wide range of city and highway speeds, by day or night.

A-PCS includes a system that combines information from millimeter wave radar, near infrared projectors and a stereo camera to help sense a wide range of obstacles with by day or night.  Because some pedestrian collisions occur after dark, the A-PCS night detection capabilities are key enhancements to the effectiveness of this system.  The system provides enhanced recognition logic for analyzing images from stereo cameras.  The system helps detect moving, as well as stationary pedestrians.

If A-PCS determines that the possibility of a collision is high, the system triggers or activates:

• A warning light and buzzer;
• Brake Assist (BA) to increase braking force when the driver presses the brake pedal;
• Steering assist via Variable Gear Ratio Steering (VGRS) to help improve the vehicle’s response;
• Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) to stiffen the dampers to help control nose drive;
• Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM) system to help increase vehicle control during an evasive maneuvers.

At speeds lower than 24 miles per hour, this technology helps the LS to avoid accidents by automatically bringing the LS to a full stop if the driver does not take any corrective actions.

A-PCS is designed to help reduce the crash speed and damage in certain frontal collisions only.  This system is not a substitute for safe and attentive driving.  System effectiveness depends on many factors.  These available advanced technology bells and whistles may be silent, but they can help assist LS drivers day or night.

Family Fun at a Price That Won't Make You Run

Family Fun at a Price That Won't Make You Run

Family Values: All-New 2014 Toyota Highlander Pricing Starts Under $30K

---

TORRANCE, Calif., November 20, 2013 - - Families dig value.  The all-new third-generation 2014 Toyota Highlander mid-size SUV adds more standard features and technologies, providing an excellent all-around value, starting under $30,000.  

The all-new Highlander is a no-compromise mid-size sport utility vehicle (SUV) that brings together the best in style, technology, comfort, capability, and safety.  Its exterior design conveys both refinement and strength, and complements a totally redesigned interior that will raise the bar in its segment.

New Grade Strategy
Highlander will be available in four well-equipped grades: LE, LE Plus, XLE and Limited.  Each will offer both front-wheel (FWD) and all-wheel-drive (AWD).  Every AWD model will include standard Dynamic Torque Control.
         
All Highlanders feature a 3.5-liter V6 engine and new six-speed electronically-controlled automatic transmission that offers selectable manual sequential shifting.  The LE grade is also available in a 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine.

Who Needs Options?
The value of the new Highlander shines through looking at the list of standard equipment.  In fact, both the LE and LE Plus grades are mono-spec, offering great content, with no complicated packages to order.

The LE grade comes standard with 18-inch alloy wheels, Entune Audio with Bluetooth^® phone and streaming music, an integrated backup camera, seating for eight with second- and third-row 60/40 split fold-flat seats, air conditioning, heated side mirrors with turn signal indicators, smart storage compartments like an extra-large roll-top center console, an in-dash shelf with easy access to power and USB ports, a windshield wiper de-icer, and much more.

The standard equipment parade continues on the LE Plus grade with standard fog lights, an adjustable-height power rear liftgate and flip-up rear hatch window, eight-way power driver seat with lumbar support, Entune Audio Plus with XM & HD radio, three-zone automatic climate control, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift  knob.  Like the LE, the LE Plus is mono-spec.

The XLE grade adds standard smart key with push button start, leather-trimmed seats with heated front seats, Chromtec^®roof rails and a tilt-slide moonroof, second-row integrated sun shades, Entune Premium Audio with Navigation, App Suite with an eight-inch touch screen display, anti-theft system, Homelink^®,and a 5,000 lb. towing capacity.  Options include seating for seven with second-row captain’s chairs, and a rear-seat Blu-ray^® DVD entertainment system.

The Limited grade adds standard 19-inch Chromtec^® alloy wheels, LED daytime running lights, blind spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alert, rear parking sonar, seating for seven with second-row captain’s chairs, perforated leather-trimmed seats, heated and ventilated front seats and memory settings for the driver seat and side mirrors, four-way power passenger seat, and Entune Premium JBL Audio with Navigation and App Suite.

Options include a Panoramic Moonroof, heated steering wheel, and heated perforated leather second-row captain’s chairs.  An optional Driver Technology Package includes:

• Safety Connect (includes Emergency Assistance, Stolen Vehicle Locator, Roadside Assistance and Automatic Collision Notification. Available by subscription),
• Pre-Collision System with Dynamic Radar Cruise Control,
• and Lane Departure Alert with Automatic High Beam Headlights.a Driver Technology Package (includes Safety Connect, Pre-Collision System with Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, Lane Departure Alert with Automatic High Beam headlights), rear-seat Blu-Ray DVD entertainment system and the Platinum package.

The Highlander Limited also offers a new Platinum package that includes the Driver Technology Package, panoramic moonroof, heated steering wheel, and heated second-row captain’s chairs.

Comprehensive Safety
All 2014 Highlander’s will have eight standard airbags.  Like every Toyota, Highlander will feature the standard Star Safety System™, which includes Enhanced Vehicle Stability Control, Traction Control, Electronic Brake-force Distribution, Brake Assist, an Anti-lock Braking System, and Smart Stop Technology.  All Highlander’s will also come equipped with a standard backup camera and Hill-start Assist Control.  All AWD models will have an AWD LOCK switch.

Highlander will also come standard with Toyota Care, a complimentary plan covering normal factory-scheduled maintenance and 24-hour roadside assistance for two years or 25,000 miles, whichever comes first.

Value Pricing
The manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) for the new Highlander LE will range from $29,215 for the LE FWD four-cylinder to $43,590 for the Limited AWD V6 with the Platinum package.  Prices for the all-new 2014 Highlander take effect with the start of production in early December.

Highlander MSRP’s do not include the Delivery, Processing and Handling (DPH) fee of $860.  The DPH for Southeast Toyota (SET) and Gulf States Toyota (GST) may vary.

All Highlanders are assembled at Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Indiana (TMMI) in Princeton, Ind.

The family fun begins in early January 2014 when the all-new Highlander begins arriving at Toyota dealers.


2014 Highlander Pricing

Model	Grade	Engine	Drivetrain	13MY MSRP ($)	14MY MSRP ($)	MSRP Difference ($)	MSRP Change (%)
6942	LE	L4	FWD	$29,020	$29,215	$195	0.7%
6946	LE	V6	FWD	$30,395	$30,520	$125	0.4%
6948	LE	V6	AWD	$31,845	$31,980	$135	0.4%
6947	LE Plus	V6	FWD	$31,850	$32,740	$890	2.8%
6949	LE Plus	V6	AWD	$33,300	$34,200	$900	2.7%
6951	XLE	V6	FWD	$34,560	$36,040	$1,480	4.3%
6953	XLE	V6	AWD	$36,010	$37,500	$1,490	4.1%
6954	LTD	V6	FWD	$37,950	$39,640	$1,690	4.5%
6956	LTD	V6	AWD	$39,400	$41,100	$1,700	4.3%
6955	LTD Plat.	V6	FWD	N/A	$42,130	N/A	N/A
6957	LTD Plat	V6	AWD	N/A	$43,590	N/A	N/A

All prices listed above exclude the Delivery, Processing, and Handling (DPH)

It’s All About the Residuals: 8 Toyota Models Win 2014 ALG Residual Value Awards

It’s All About the Residuals: 8 Toyota Models Win 

2014 ALG Residual Value Awards

LOS ANGELES (Nov. 18, 2013) — In Hollywood, they say it’s all about the residuals.  If you own a Toyota, the same might be said for the car in your driveway. 

On the eve of Tinsel Town’s automotive event of the season, Toyota models were awarded 8 Residual Value Awards from ALG, the industry benchmark for residual values and depreciation data.

The annual ALG Residual Value Awards recognize automakers’ outstanding achievements for vehicles that are predicted to retain the highest percentage of their original price after a conventional three-year period.  Awards are given in 24 vehicle categories and also for the two brands with the highest overall predicted residual values among all mainstream and all premium vehicles.

Toyota “thanked the academy” for 8 model-level awards, more than any other auto brand.  Toyota models taking home awards included: 

• Avalon – Fullsize Car
• Prius C – Alternative Fuel Vehicle
• Highlander – Midsize Utility Vehicle - 3-Row
• Sequoia – Fullsize Utility Vehicle
• FJ Cruiser – Off Road Utility Vehicle
• Tacoma – Midsize Pickup
• Land Cruiser – Premium Fullsize Utility Vehicle

 
“Toyota combines its reputation for rock-solid reliability with very restrained use of incentive support and fleet sales across its lineup,” said Eric Lyman, vice president of editorial for ALG.  “With this strong foundation, Toyota vehicles are always near the top of their segments with regard to residuals.”

“We pride ourselves on offering the highest quality products at a great value to our customers,” said Bill Fay, Toyota group vice president and general manager.  “With some of the best residual values in the industry, Toyota customers can sleep at night knowing that they have made a sound investment.”

Award winners are determined through careful study of the competition in each segment, historical vehicle performance and industry trends.  Vehicle quality, production levels relative to demand, and pricing and marketing strategies represent key factors that impact ALG’s residual value forecasts.

Toyota Pledges $500,000 to Support Relief Efforts in the Philippines

Toyota Pledges $500,000 to Support Relief Efforts in the Philippines

American Red Cross and other Non Profit Organizations to Receive Funds
Company Will Match Employee Donations

NEW YORK (Nov. 14, 2013) – Toyota today announced a $250,000 donation to the American Red Cross to support relief efforts for victims of Super Typhoon Haiyan in the Philippines. Today’s announcement – along with a previously announced pledge of 10 million Philippine pesos – brings Toyota’s total contributions to nearly $500,000 USD. In addition, Toyota will match employee contributions to the American Red Cross and other non-profits doing relief and recovery work in the region.

Commenting on the donation, Jim Lentz, CEO of Toyota’s North America Region, said, “On behalf of Toyota, we express our sincere condolences to the families affected by Typhoon Haiyan in the Philippines and surrounding areas. Thanks to the generosity of our associates and team members, Toyota’s giving will go even further to help families in need.”

Fresh trades

3H50200 09 HONDA PILOT UP LX 4WD BLUE AUTO 6 45038 22,998 21,991

3H50194 12 HYUNDAI SONATA SD GLS SILVER AUTO 4 37284 16,998 15,991

3T50176 2012 Toyota Sienna LE

Mileage: 26,972 Silver Sky Metallic

Toyota Certified Used Vehicle

Market Price: $25,995

Buy now for only: $24,971!

4T40301A 2011 CHEVROLET MALIBU LT SILVER  AUTO 4 CYL 57,850 MILES,  MARKET VALUE: $16,995 SALE PRICE:$15,491

3T401856A 2010 HIGHLANDER SUPERWHITE AUTO 60,400 MILES SUNROOF, 

MARKET VALUE $24,995 SALE PRICE $23,971

3T50177 2012 CAMRY LE Hybrid Cypress Pearl  21,850 miles! 

 TOYOTA CERTIFIED! MARKET VALUE: $23,995 SALE PRICE: $22,931

Scion FR-S Repeats SEMA Win as Hottest Sport Compact

Scion FR-S Repeats SEMA Win as Hottest Sport Compact

TORRANCE, Calif., (Nov. 5, 2013) – It’s back again for the win. Judges today named the Scion FR-S the Hottest Sport Compact for the second year at the 2013 Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) Show in Las Vegas. Last year marked the first appearance of the FR-S at SEMA.

The award goes to the hottest ride in the enthusiast market, as demonstrated by the SEMA Show exhibitors and industry experts who feature the car at the event. SEMA organizers estimated this year’s show would host about 130,000 automotive specialty product professionals from more than 130 countries.

“We’re honored to take home the Hottest Sport Compact award two years in a row, reflecting fans’ continued excitement around the FR-S,” said Scion Corporate Manager Dave Harbuck. “Whether here at SEMA or out on the road, the FR-S is a true enthusiast’s car. The power and possibilities for personalization inspire our owners to take this car to new levels.”

Scion brought four customized FR-S vehicles to SEMA this year, in addition to an xB and three tCs competing in the Scion Tuner Challenge. The four FR-S builds range from a racing prototype capable of putting out more than 750 horsepower to a music-themed entry from renowned DJ and producer Steve Aoki.

The rear-wheel-drive FR-S is known for its lightweight design, impressive performance and affordability. It comes standard with a 2.0-liter flat boxer engine capable of producing 200 horsepower and 151 pound-feet of torque.

Fresh acquisitions!

3H50198  2010 MAZDA CX9 AWD Leather, Sunroof, Navigation BLACK AUTO 58,395 miles $22,991

3H50133A 2007 SAAB 9-7X  5.3l V8 AWD   BLACK AUTO 138,709 miles  NAV, DVD $9,971

Toyota | Tundra Melds Artistry with Taste of Texas

Toyota | Tundra Melds Artistry with Taste of Texas

West Coast Choppers’ Jesse James Creates Mobile, 

High-End BBQ Inspired by Chef Tim Love

LAS VEGAS (Nov. 4, 2013) – After a pull on the handcrafted stainless steel drawer, onlookers will imagine the steak sizzling. West Coast Choppers owner Jesse James drew inspiration from Texas restaurateur Tim Love to build an 8-foot combination KitchenAidÒoven and white oak chopping block that extends from the Toyota Tundra truck bed. The Tundra will be on display at the SEMA Show in Las Vegas.

James and his team aimed to keep the authenticity of the Tundra, while adding high quality details to enhance the Texas barbecue theme. A Texas Longhorn and the defiant “Come and Take it” slogan can be seared into meat on the custom iron oven grates, and the phrase “West Coast Choppers Texas Barbecue” further customizes the build. Two WEATHER GUARDÒside coolers help keep meat at safe temperatures while traveling, and stainless steel compartments store individual condiments. The team also lifted the truck 4 inches and added a more rugged look through matching black fender flares, N-FAB nerf steps and Method Race Wheels. Additional featured items include General Tires, a Camburg suspension and OPTIMAÒbatteries to keep power flowing.

“We didn’t want anything silly. We wanted a high-end look to go along with the fully serviceable chef’s kitchen,” James said. “Nothing is visible until you slide out the stovetop from the back. It came out great.”

James’s West Coast Choppers established its reputation as a motorcycle manufacturing facility in the early 1990s, later featured on the “Motorcycle Mania” series and “Monster Garage” on the Discovery Channel. The brand gained international fame and celebrity clientele.

Love is owner of multiple Texas restaurants including Lonesome Dove Western Bistro, Woodshed Smokehouse and the White Elephant Saloon. He is known for his innovative grilled, roasted, braised and slow-cooked meals and Texas inspiration.

“I love experimenting with new, fun ways to share my cooking, and this Tundra encompasses that spirit,” Love said. “The Texas details and quality craftsmanship will get any fan excited to see what we can create.”

ALV Award-Winning Toyota 4Runner Takes Active Lifestyle Enthusiasts on the Ride of Their Lives

ALV Award-Winning Toyota 4Runner Takes Active Lifestyle Enthusiasts on the Ride of Their Lives

Rugged, go-anywhere exterior design and authentic off-road heritage help Toyota 4Runner win Best Value Off-Road Vehicle for active lifestyles

TORRANCE, Calif. (Nov. 4, 2013) – Up a steep hill, through a rocky riverbed and across a sea of other off-road adventures, the redesigned 2014 Toyota 4Runner proved its value at the 10th annual Active Lifestyle Vehicle (ALV) awards program, taking home the title of Best Value Off-Road Vehicle. As an authentic off-road vehicle that is also comfortable on the road, the 2014 4Runner features a rugged, go-anywhere exterior, authentic off-road heritage and impeccable agility – creating the perfect mix for those seeking an active lifestyle.

Carspondent.com started the Active Lifestyle Vehicle of the Year program nine years ago with two objectives in mind: to recognize the cars and trucks that best meet the needs of people with active lifestyles, and to provide automakers with a better understanding of what features people who run, cycle, swim or maintain an active lifestyle in any other fashion, find necessary for their vehicle.

Commenting on the 4Runner’s off-road capability, one of the participating athletes said “the vehicle does all the work for you.  It’s almost like it can feel what the road is doing and it adjusts automatically.”

For nearly three decades, the 4Runner has been a stalwart for off-roading enthusiasts seeking a mid-size SUV with the ability to handle bumps along the way. The redesigned 2014 4Runner added a new exterior design and interior refinement, providing more comfort and convenience without sacrificing its hallmark performance capability and excellent value – all of which contribute to those living an active lifestyle. Currently in its fifth-generation, the 2014 4Runner continues to be one of the few, fully capable mid-size SUVs.

The 4Runner combines its rugged body-on-frame construction with a comprehensive suspension technology that yields optimal off-road capability with a smooth ride and comfort more often associated with crossovers.

The 2014 4Runner is available in three grades: a well-equipped, value-driven SR5; top-of-the-line Limited; and a Trail grade for those who want maximum off-road capability. Optional third-row seats on SR5 and Limited allow for up to seven passengers. The 2014 4Runner also offers the choice of a rear wheel 4x2, part-time 4x4 or a full-time multi-mode 4x4 with a locking center differential. All models are equipped with a powerful 4.0-liter, 270-horsepower V6 teamed to a five-speed ECT-i automatic transmission, and are among  the few vehicles that continues to offer a transfer case.

Many “vehicle of the year” programs focus on various aspects of vehicle performance, but the Carspondent.com Active Lifestyle Vehicle of the Year program is more concerned with how much the vehicle enhances an athlete’s performance. The vehicles are evaluated by former and current athletes to assess how they perform in water, with ease of loading, and even upholstery cleaning. To qualify for the competition, and to adhere to Carspondent.com’s important safety standards, active lifestyle vehicles must meet certain criteria to be considered. Vehicles must include antilock brakes, side curtain airbags and electronic stability control. Judges include journalists, runners, cyclists, adventure racers, skiers and race car drivers.

For those seeking their next adventure in life, the Toyota 4Runner will take them there – wherever that may be.

Toyota Growth is Steady with Nearly 9 Percent Sales Increase in October 2013

Toyota Growth is Steady with Nearly 9 Percent Sales Increase in October 2013

All-new Tundra up almost 23 percent; All-new Avalon posts triple-digit gains for eighth month in a row

October 2013 Sales Chart

TORRANCE, Calif. (Nov. 1, 2013) – Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc., today reported October 2013 sales results of 168,976 units, an increase of 4.8 percent over October 2012 on a daily selling rate (DSR) basis.  On a raw-volume basis, unadjusted for 27 selling days in October 2013 versus 26 selling days in October 2012, TMS sales increased 8.8 percent from the year-ago month.

Toyota Division posted October 2013 sales of 146,257 units, up 4 percent year-over-year on a DSR basis.   Volume-wise, Toyota division sales increased 8 percent over October 2012.

“Consumers showed resiliency in October with steady auto sales despite headwinds caused by the government shutdown,” said Bill Fay, Toyota division group vice president and general manager.  “The growth in the auto industry continues to play a leading role in the economic recovery, and Toyota is on track for a strong close to the year.”

Lexus reported October sales of 22,719 units, a 10.2 percent increase on a DSR basis and a 14.5 percent increase on a raw volume basis, both year-over-year.

"Industry growth is being driven by new products, and we have two of the hottest new models on the market today - the new IS and GX SUV," said Jeff Bracken, Lexus group vice president and general manager.  "And as we move into November and December, traditionally two excellent months for Lexus, we're poised to close out the year with strong sales."

Other Highlights:

• All-new Corolla posts sales of 23,637 units
• All-new Avalon posts triple-digit gains for eighth month in a row
• Camry posts sales of almost 30,000 units
• TMS hybrids retain more than half of the market with sales of nearly 23,800 units
• Prius family records sales of 15,623 units
• All-new RAV4 increases 60.8 percent with a best-ever October
• Sienna up 10.1 percent with sales of more than 8,500 units
• Toyota division pickups post sales of more than 22,000 units
• All-new Tundra up almost 23 percent
• All-new Lexus IS up more than 68 percent
• Lexus LS up more than 26 percent
• Lexus ES is volume car leader with sales of nearly 6,000 units
• Lexus RX up more than 15 percent with sales of almost 8,000 units

*Note:  Unless otherwise stated, all figures reflect unadjusted raw sales volume