2014 Highlander arrives at Berlin City Toyota!

Still in the wrapper!

Mike Wyman photobombing...

Almond Interior

2nd row captain's chairs

Highlander Limited Platinum V6 AWD

VIN .............: 5TDDKRFH6ES005639

MECHANICAL & PERFORMANCE
3.5L DOHC V6 Engine with Dual VVT-i
6-Spd Auto Trans; 5,000-lb Tow Capacity
Front Independent McPherson Strut &
Rear Double Wishbone Suspension
Power Assisted 4-Wheel Disc Brakes
19" Chromtec Wheel w/P245/55R19 Tires
Temporary Spare Tire on 18" Wheel
Hill-Start & Downhill Assist Control
SAFETY & CONVENIENCE
Star Safety System: incl Enhanced Veh
Stability Ctrl, Traction Ctrl, Anti-Lock
Brake System, Elec Brake-Force Distrib,
Brake Assist & Smart Stop Technology
8 Airbags: Dr & Fr Pgr Adv Airbag Sys,Dr
& Fr Pgr Seat-Mounted Side, Dr Knee, Pgr
Seat-Cushion & 3-Rw Side Curtain Airbags
Blind Spot Monitor w/Rr Cross Trfc Alert
Whiplash Injury Lessening Front Seats
Smart Key; Alarm & Engine Immobilizer
LATCH-Lwr Anchors & Tethers for Children
Child Protector Rear Door Locks
EXTERIOR
Auto On/Off Hdlghts; Fog Lights; LED DRL
Folding Htd Pwr Side Mirrors w/Pud Lamps
Priv Glass-Rr Side, Qtr & Hatch Windows
Chromtec Roof Rails; Smoked Headlamps
Adj Pwr Liftgate w/Flip-Up Rear Window
Power Tilt/Slide Moonroof with Sunshade
INTERIOR
Seating for 7;Perf Lthr Htd/Vnt Fr Seats
8-way Pwr Memory Driver Seat w/Lumbar,
4-way Pwr Psgr Seat, 2nd Row Captains &
3rd Rw 60/40 Split Fld-Flat Seats w/Recl
Integrated 2nd Row Side-Window Sunshades
Backup Camera w/8" disp; Rear Pkg Sonar
Entune Prem JBL w/8" Touch Screen: Nav,
AM/FM/CD/MP3/USB/AUX, HD & XM Radio-sub
reqd, Bluetooth Phone/Music, App Suite
4.2" Color Nav-Linked MID; Homelink
Wood-Grain Trim; 3-Zone Auto A/C, Lthr
Steering Whl w/Audio, Phone, Voice Ctrls
Roll-Top Console/Arm Rest, In-Dash Shelf
50 State Emissions  .........................
Platinum Package:  ..........................
Includes Driver Technology Package  .........
(Safety Connect, Pre-Collision System  ......
with Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, Lane  ....
Departure Alert with Automatic High Beam  ...
Headlights), Panoramic Moonroof, Heated  ....
Steering Wheel, Heated Perforated Leather  ..
Second-Row Captain''s Chairs  ................
Destination Charge ..........................: $  860.00
Total .......................................: $  44450.00

Toyota Fuel Cell Concept Sedan Debuts at 2014 Consumer Electronics Show

Toyota Fuel Cell Concept Sedan Debuts at 2014 Consumer Electronics Show

TORRANCE, Calif., (Dec. 18, 2013) – Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc., will debut the FCV, a sedan based fuel cell vehicle, at the 2014 Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas.  The reveal will feature the North America debut of the concept vehicle as well as an introduction to the fuel cell “test mule”, which logged thousands of miles during rigorous quality and durability testing on U.S. roadways.  Toyota’s news conference will be held Monday, January 6 at 1:00 PM at the Mandalay Bay Conference Center.  

2014 Toyota Highlander Review

Toyota 2013 North American Environmental Report - Water Savings Infographic (PDF)

Call for Nominations: Toyota Family Teacher of the Year Award

Call for Nominations: Toyota Family Teacher of the Year Award

Winner Will Receive $20,000 to Support Best Practices in Family Engagement 

LOUISVILLE, Ky.  (December 11, 2013) –Know a teacher that deserves an “A+” for engaging parents, children and educators in the learning process? Nominate them for the Toyota Family Teacher of the Year Award and the chance to win $20,000 for their school or non-profit program.

The National Center for Families Learning, together with long-standing partner Toyota, today announces a call for the nation’s best teachers in engaging families in education.

As awareness and recognition of the vital role the family plays in learning development grows within the education community and beyond, the Toyota Teacher of the Year award has evolved in its 17th year to become the Toyota Family Teacher of the Year Award. In the spirit of celebrating and encouraging that vital role, NCFL and Toyota will honor a teacher’s school or program that exemplifies bringing families into the education process with a $20,000 prize to further efforts engaging parents, children and teachers in learning together. Eligible teachers can engage families in schools or other non-profit community organizations serving an educational purpose.

Whether through a creative use of technology or a novel approach to intergenerational engagement, every nominee will be a catalyst for improving how families learn together. This year, NCFL and Toyota will also give thanks to a second prize winner for exemplary work with a $5,000 award, double the amount of previous years.  The winners will be announced in February at the Families Learning Summit & National Conference on Family Literacy 2014 to be held in Washington, D.C.

Eligible family educators:

• Are exceptional at engaging families in their school or community-based organization; formal teaching credentials not required
• Use and champion innovative intergenerational approaches to help parents and children learn together
• Have a demonstrated record of success
• Have exciting ideas to expand and strengthen their family engagement efforts
• Serve communities and families with high literacy and socioeconomic needs
• Would be successful at communicating successful practices to educators and families across the nation

How to apply:
To recognize a teacher’s role in engaging parents and students positively with a school or program to improve student achievement, use this online nomination form. Nominations will be accepted through January 10, 2014.
 

Toyota Financial Services Helps Customers Survive the Mean Streets of Potholes, Nails, Blowouts, and Other Dreaded Road Hazards

Toyota Financial Services Helps Customers Survive the Mean Streets of Potholes, Nails, Blowouts, and Other Dreaded Road Hazards

The Tire & Wheel protection plans backed by the Toyota name will launch Dec. 9

TORRANCE, Calif. (Dec. 09, 2013) – It’s that time of year again when rain, snow and freezing temperatures conspire to create more potholes. Combine that with hazards such as, nails, glass, and tree branches, and the nation’s roads and highways become true obstacle courses. It’s no wonder millions of flat tires occur every year in the U.S.

To help take the pain out of unexpected tire and wheel damage, Toyota Financial Services /Lexus Financial Services (TFS/LFS) is set to launch its newest vehicle protection product – Tire & Wheel Protection, a plan built and backed by the strength of Toyota and Lexus.

Benefits include*:

• Tire replacement (no plugs and patches, customers get a new tire for a qualifying claim – even for run flat tires and aftermarket tires)
• An option for cosmetic wheel repair to take care of minor wheel scuffs¹
• Wheel replacement (when damage to the wheel prevents a seal between the tire and wheel)
• No limit to the number of claims
• An option for paintless dent repair and windshield repair²
• Towing Reimbursement (up to $100)
• Related costs for Labor and fees
• One time transferability of benefits should the covered vehicle be sold to a private party

“We’ve all had that moment when we hit a pothole, scraped up against a curb, or even had an unexpected blowout. With our new Tire & Wheel protection plan, we hope we can make life a little easier for our customers by offering an option that will help protect them against the high costs of replacement,” said Jim Miller, National Manager of Product Development. “We are confident that customers will see our plan is priced competitively and provides what we believe is better coverage and service than non-Toyota repair or replace plans.”

To administer the TFS/LFS Tire & Wheel program, TFS has partnered with Safe-Guard Products International, the industry leaderin tire and wheel protection products.

By purchasing the TFS/LFS Tire & Wheel protection plans, customers don’t need to worry about delaying costly replacement or repair and risking further tire damage.

According to the trade publication Modern Tire Dealer, the average price of a passenger tire in the U.S. increased 57% from 2006 to 2012.  The publication’s research showed thatthe average cost for a new tire on a passenger vehicle in the U.S. is $126.16, and for a light truck, the cost is $179.15.

Toyota Indiana Launches the 2014 Highlander; Prepares for Hybrids and Exports

Toyota Indiana Launches the 2014 Highlander; Prepares for Hybrids and Exports

Popular SUV responsible for $430 million investment and more than 600 jobs by 2014 end
 

2014 Highlanders roll down the production line at Toyota’s Indiana plant in December 2013.

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A 2014 Highlander is staged for inspection at TMMI. All Toyota vehicles go through a rigorous inspection process.
 

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2014 Highlanders roll down the production line at Toyota’s Indiana plant in December 2013.

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A Toyota team member drives a right-hand drive Highlander off the line at Toyota's Indiana plant in December 2013. This vehicle is bound for the Australian market, where it’s known as a Kluger.

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Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Indiana 2014 Toyota Highlander b-roll

PRINCETON, Ind. (Dec. 5, 2013) – Hoosier pride was felt deep and wide on the plant floor of Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Indiana this morning as the company celebrated the start of production of the all-new 2014 Highlander.

TMMI team members and area citizens have much to celebrate, as the popular midsize SUV is responsible for $430 million additional investment and more than 600 jobs at the Princeton automotive plant.

“Automotive manufacturers and suppliers around Indiana are putting their expansion plans into gear, creating jobs and more opportunities in every corner of the state,” said Indiana Lieutenant Governor Sue Ellspermann. “With Toyota’s launch of production for the new Highlander right here in the Hoosier State, we are witnessing an economy driving forward. From our world-class workforce to our low cost of doing business, Indiana proves daily that it is a state that works for automotive manufacturing.”

The Princeton plant builds a gas version of the Highlander and will begin producing the hybrid version early next year.  Highlanders born in Indiana will find new homes with drivers in the Russian and Australian regions as TMMI expands its export reach.

Highlander export business allows for better utilization of the Indiana plant, and helps capitalize on the improving North American and global auto market.  In addition to the new jobs created at the Indiana plant, this project increases opportunities and jobs for Toyota’s North American supply base.

2014 new Highlander features 

• All-new exterior with three-row seating for up to eight,
• Increased cargo capacity,
• Three power train choices: a fuel-efficient four-cylinder engine, a powerful V-6 with a new six-speed transmission, and a V-6-powered Hybrid Synergy Drive,
• Entune Audio with Bluetooth phone and streaming music and touch-screen display,
• Integrated backup camera,
• STAR Safety System, includes Enhanced Vehicle Stability Control, Traction Control, Anti-Lock Brake System, Electronic Brake-Force Distribution, Brake assist and Smart Stop Technology,
• Adjustable height power rear liftgate and flip-up rear hatch window, and
• Eight-way power driver seat.

“The all-new Highlander is a dynamic, stylish SUV and its quality craftsmanship and the fact that it will be exported to the Russian and Australian markets is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our team members.” Bafunno said.  “This really is a milestone for our entire team,”

Sheila Showalter, Quality Assurance team leader, couldn’t agree more. “When I started here 16 years ago, I was one of 1,300 team members in the West Plant and we were only building the Tundra.  It is exciting to be a part of something this big.”

Representing a $4.2 billion investment, TMMI currently employs about 4,500.  By the end of 2014, Toyota will directly employ 4,700 team members.  The Princeton plant also produces the Sequoia full-size SUV and Sienna minivan. 

Toyota Motor Sales No. 1 Retail Manufacturer in November 2013

Toyota Motor Sales No. 1 Retail Manufacturer in November 2013

All-new RAV4 up nearly 57 percent; All-new Avalon posts triple-digit gains for ninth month in a row

TORRANCE, Calif. (Dec. 3, 2013)– Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc., today reported November 2013 sales results of 178,044 units, an increase of 5.9 percent over November 2012 on a daily selling rate (DSR) basis.  On a raw-volume basis, unadjusted for 26 selling days in November 2013 versus 25 selling days in November 2012, TMS sales increased 10.1 percent from year-ago month.

Toyota Division posted November 2013 sales of 152,433 units, up 5.5 percent year-over-year on a DSR basis. Volume-wise, Toyota division sales increased 9.7 percent over November 2012.

"Industry sales in November picked up after Thanksgiving, contributing to the best sales pace of the year," said Bill Fay, Toyota division group vice president and general manager. "Showroom traffic surged over the holiday weekend for Toyota, indicating good momentum that we expect to continue through the end of the year and into 2014."

Lexus reported November sales of 25,611 units, an 8.4 percent increase on a DSR basis and a 12.7 percent increase on a raw volume basis, both year-over-year.

"December is traditionally one of the best sales months of the year for luxury car brands, and we're off to an early start with sales up 35 percent over the Thanksgiving weekend," said Jeff Bracken, Lexus group vice president and general manager. "With great product availability and financing options, Lexus dealers are positioned with the best programs of the year."

Other Highlights:

• Avalon posts triple-digit gains for ninth month in a row
• Camry tops 30,000 units and is segment leader
• All-new Corolla posts sales of 22,434 units
• TMS hybrids retain more than half of the market with sales of more than 24,000 units
• Prius family records sales of 16,129 units
• Highlander up nearly 22 percent with sales of more than 11,500 units
• All-new RAV4 up nearly 57 percent with a best-ever November
• Toyota division trucks up 16 percent with 72,000 units
• All-new Tundra up almost 21 percent topping sales of 10,000 units
• All-new Lexus IS sales doubled to nearly 4,000 units
• Lexus ES is volume car leader with sales of nearly 6,300 units
• Lexus RX posts sales of almost 9,500
• Lexus GX posts best month of the year with sales up 70 percent

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

Toyota Baja California Celebrates 10 Years of Manufacturing Excellence

Toyota Baja California Celebrates 10 Years of Manufacturing Excellence

$10,000 and Three Toyota Trucks Donated to Local Charities 

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2012, 2013, 2014 Toyota Tacoma

Baja Calif., Mexico (Dec. 2, 2013) – Commemorating 10 years since breaking ground Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Baja California (TMMBC) donated $10,000 (USD) today to the Boys and Girls Club of Tecate and three Toyota trucks to local nonprofit partners, including:
 

• Cruz Roja Mexicana (Red Cross), Tijuana
• Dirección de Bomberos (Fire Brigade), Tijuana
• Desarrollo Integral de La Familia (Children’s Foundation), Tecate

 
Team members, suppliers and special guests at the Tijuana home of the Toyota Tacoma midsize pickup truck celebrated with their local community. Tacoma has been named one of the best cars for the money for outstanding quality and good value by US News & World Report.
 
“The dedication of our Mexico team has contributed to the facility’s manufacturing excellence,” said Osamu “Simon” Nagata, president of Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing North America, Inc. “Their efforts strengthen our vision of building great trucks, while contributing to the local community and supporting economic development in the region.”
 
Toyota Motor Manufacturing de Baja California (TMMBC) represents over $180 million (USD) with capacity to build 57,000 Tacomas and 200,000 truck beds per year. Last October, Toyota announced it would increase TMMBC’s capacity to 63,000 annually starting mid-2014.  This increase will create more than 50 jobs bringing total TMMBC employment to 1,180.

“Demand for trucks is strong and TMMBC’s product is making a unique contribution
to Toyota’s competitiveness,” said Joe DaRosa, TMMBC president.  “Thanks in part to team members’ spirit and can-do attitude we are well positioned to meet next year’s capacity increase.”
 
 
TMMBC Milestones:
 

Date	Milestone
2002	Toyota Baja California site announcement
2003	Groundbreaking ceremony
2004	Capacity increase: 30,000 trucks,  180,000 Tacoma decks
2005	Line off ceremony
2006	Capacity increase: 50,000 trucks, 200,000 Tacoma decks
2010	1 millionth unit  production (includes trucks and truck beds)
2013	Capacity increase: 57,000 trucks
2014	Capacity increase: 63,000 trucks