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All-New Camry XLE Hybrid Wins NADAguides’ Car of the Month Award for September

2011-09-23T17:15:00.000-04:00

The 2012 Toyota Camry XLE Hybrid has received the NADAguides Car of the Month Award for September as the NADAguides indicates it “demonstrates quality of engineering in overall design inside and out. The NADAguides analytical team was impressed with the Camry’s improved fuel efficiency, highly advanced multimedia system, class-leading safety and easy handling.”

As a Car of the Month award winner, the 2012 Toyota Camry is a contender against 10 other vehicles for the NADAguides Car of the Year award. The winner of this award will be announced at the Los Angeles Auto Show in November.

All-New Camry’s MSRP Is Lowest in Model’s History When Adjusted for Inflation

2011-08-26T17:41:00.000-04:00

Edmunds.com’s Auto Observer has put together an interesting chart showing that the MSRP for the all-new Camry makes it the lowest-inflation-adjusted MSRP in the model’s 22-year history.

Click Here to view the Chart.

Toyota, Lexus Earn Most Slots Among Automakers on ‘Best Cars for Families’ List

2011-08-26T17:39:00.001-04:00

Toyota and Lexus captured seven of the 20 places on the U.S. News list of “2011 Best Cars for Families” – more than any other manufacturer. The seven models are: Toyota Highlander, Highlander Hybrid, Prius, Sequoia and Venza, and Lexus LX and RX 350. Honda and Acura together were a close second with six slots on the list. Ford was a distant third with three. Hyundai, Nissan/Infiniti and Volvo each had one.

To read the article, please Click Here

2012 Toyota Camry Shaping Up To Have Highest American Content

2011-08-26T10:13:00.002-04:00

According to Toyota, the gasoline version will have a market-leading 92-percent North American-sourced parts. Content for the 2012 Toyota Camry Hybrid—with its Japan-sourced battery pack and drive components—will be 59. But since the window-sticker percentages are calculated on a 'carline' basis, that still calculates to an estimated combined AALA figure of 89 percent for the 2012 Camry lineup.

To read more about the Camry parts origin and other vehicles parts origins Click Here.

Toyota Reveals All-New Yaris Sized Right for Fun and Function

2011-08-19T11:29:00.001-04:00

The all-new 2012 Toyota Yaris arrives in dealerships this fall with sporty styling, outstanding safety features and improved fuel economy. From its smart interior design and quiet, refined passenger cabin to its responsive driving dynamics, this Yaris answers car-shoppers’ demands for a no-compromise vehicle.

“There is a lot of excitement in the subcompact category today, but the all-new 2012 Toyota Yaris is at the top of the list when it comes to combining value and fuel economy with style and fun,” said Bob Carter, Toyota Division group vice president and general manager. “Today’s young, price-conscious shoppers want the complete package that the new Yaris offers: room for their friends and gear, along with a strong list of standard convenience and safety features.”

The new Yaris will be offered in three grades, with the entry-level L and value-packaged LE editions available either as a three-door liftback or five-door liftback. The sport-tuned SE is available only as a five-door. Standard equipment levels have been improved across all grades while simplifying options to make it easier for customers to find the car they want at an affordable price.

The base MSRP will range from $14,115 for the L grade three-door liftback with a five-speed manual transmission to $17,200 for the SE grade five-door liftback with a four-speed automatic transmission.

To read the full article and to see photos Click Here

Toyota, Lexus, Cadillac Tie for Top Spot in Customer Satisfaction Index

2011-08-18T11:16:00.001-04:00

Signaling their resurgence, Toyota and Lexus tied with Cadillac for the top spot in the annual American Customer Satisfaction Index’s (ACSI) ranking of automakers by brand. Toyota was the only non-luxury brand in the top five on the list.

Toyota, Lexus and Cadillac each scored 87 out of a possible 100 points, followed by Lincoln and Mercedes-Benz at 86. Buick and Honda tied for sixth with a score of 85. Rounding out the top 10, Volkswagen, Nissan and Ford each scored 84.

Toyota made the largest gain of any automaker, improving three points while Lexus improved two and Cadillac one. ACSI Managing Director David VanAmburg told the San Antonio Express News that Toyota’s performance shows the automaker has overcome negative publicity about last year’s recalls. “Toyota and Lexus took a downturn as a result of the damaging recalls last year,” he said. “But a year out, we thought they were bound to bounce back, and they did.”

To read the full Bloomberg Article: Click Here

Toyota, Tesla to Begin Producing RAV4 Electric Vehicle at Toyota Canada Plant in 2012

2011-08-08T12:14:00.001-04:00

Toyota and Tesla Motors Inc. announced today that their jointly-developed RAV4 EV battery-electric vehicle will be assembled at Toyota Motor Manufacturing Canada, Inc. (TMMC) in Woodstock, Ontario, beginning in 2012.

The vehicle will be assembled on the same line as the gasoline-powered RAV4, which “will streamline and simplify the production process and guarantee the highest level of quality control, “said TMMC Chairman Ray Tanguay.

Tesla will produce the electric powertrains at its facility in Palo Alto, Calif., and ship them to TMMC for final assembly into the vehicle.

Click Here to read more

Toyota Used Vehicles: The ‘Better Alternative’ Says CBS Money Watch

2011-08-08T12:12:00.001-04:00

CBS Money Watch has identified “5 Used Cars to Avoid” and “5 Better Alternatives.” No Toyota, Lexus or Scion model made the list to be avoided (whew!), but three out of the five “better alternatives” are Toyota products – 4Runner, Sequoia and Siehttp://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gifnna. That’s consistent with the motto of Toyota Certified Used Vehicles: “The best new cars make the best used cars.”

Click here to read the CBS Money Watch report.

Toyota #1 on Interbrand’s ‘Best Global Green Brands’ List for 2011

2011-08-08T12:10:00.000-04:00

Toyota earned the top spot in Interbrand’s 2011 ranking of the “Best Global Green Brands,” the New York-based brand consultancy company announced today. Tohttp://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gifyota ranked first on the list of the top 50 brands, based on consumer and expert evaluations, for its efforts to achieve a sustainable society and the success of the Prius hybrid vehicle.

3M ranked 2nd followed by Siemens, Johnson & Johnson and Hewlett-Packard. Rounding out the top 10, Volkswagen was 6th, Honda was 7th, followed by Dell, Cisco and Panasonic. Other automakers on the list were Hyundai, 11th; BMW, 12th; Mercedes Benz, 16th; and Ford, 20th.

Click Here to read an Interbrand Interview with Toyota Motor Corporation’s Riki Inuzuka, managing officer, Corporate Planning Division and Research Division.

Camry Named ‘Most American’ Car by Cars.com

2011-06-27T16:17:00.003-04:00

Toyota Camry is the “Most American” Car for the third consecutive year in Cars.Com’s annual “American-Made Index,” which ranks vehicles based on the percentage of their parts that are produced domestically, where they are assembled and how many are sold to U.S. buyers.
In addition to grabbing the top rank, Toyota captured two other spots in the top 10 – Sienna came in at No. 6 and Tundra at No. 9. General Motors also had three vehicles on the list. Honda held two spots in the top 10, while Ford and Chrysler each held one.
"Despite the disaster in Japan, and General Motors usurping Toyota as the world's largest automaker, we're not surprised to see the Camry in the number one position again," said Cars.com Editor in Chief Patrick Olsen. "The Camry remains an incredibly popular vehicle, and higher total sales require a higher number of U.S. factory workers and a larger number of U.S. suppliers – all of which contribute to Toyota's ranking."

Click Here to See the Rankings and Read the Full Press Release.

Toyota hiring 3,000 to 4,000 temp workers in Japan

2011-06-24T10:20:00.001-04:00

Toyota said it will hire 3,000 to 4,000 temporary workers in Japan to be ready for a recovery in vehicle production as automakers bounce back from the March 11 earthquake and tsunami.

Toyota Motor Corp. will start recruiting the factory workers in July, as production is now gradually recovering and expected to surge by October, company spokesman Shigehiko Okamura said Tuesday.

Production at Toyota and other Japanese automakers dived after the disaster because of a shortage of key parts from suppliers in the northeastern region devastated by the magnitude-9.0 quake.
Click Here to Read More

Gazoo Racing and Toyota Create Funky, MR2-Based Sports Hybrid Concept II, Debut it at the ‘Ring

2011-06-24T10:08:00.004-04:00

Toyota has teamed up with the guys at Gazoo Racing to create a unique MR-2 based sports hybrid.
The re-skinned mid-engine Concept II looks like the result of a one-night stand between a Lotus Evora and a TVR, with funky air scoops and aggressive-looking, blacked-out lighting clusters punctuating smooth expanses of sheetmetal. The 19-inch wheels indeed look pulled straight off of an Evora, while the headlights almost look like a Tesla roadster’s taillight units. The Concept II improves upon the Concept I in the powertrain department, boasting a 245-hp, 3.5-liter V-6 engine that powers the rear wheels paired with a single electric motor that powers the front. Gazoo Racing claims that the total system output is 295 hp, and its weight for the Hybrid Concept II—despite its rather small footprint and featherweight MR2 underpinnings—is “less than 3300 pounds.” The GRMN Sports Hybrid Concept II will be on display at the Nürburgring this weekend during the 24-hour race.

Click Here to read the full article.
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Scion FR-S Sports Coupe Concept

2011-04-21T15:51:00.006-04:00

Scion unveiled its rear-wheel drive FR-S sports coupe concept Wednesday at the 2011 New York International Auto Show. You can watch the reveal, see the pictures and read the press release by visiting sciondimension.com

Toyota Launches ‘Hope for Japan’ Digital Campaign

2011-03-31T12:53:00.003-04:00

The thoughts and prayers of Toyota’s North American associates and team members continue to be with the people of Japan. As an additional way to convey this sentiment, Toyota has launched “Hope for Japan,” a website where visitors can contribute to the American Red Cross relief efforts and share a personal message of hope. We encourage you to visit the site and show your support at http://www.toyotasupportforjapan.com"/

Toyota Motor Sales Wins More Awards Than Any Other Automaker in Vehicle Dependability Study

2011-03-17T17:15:00.001-04:00

Toyota Motor Sales captured seven segment awards, the most of any automaker in the 2011 J.D. Power and Associates Vehicle Dependability Study. Toyota had five first-place finishes: 4Runner, Prius, Sienna, Tacoma and Tundra. Lexus had one: RX. Scion had one: xB.

Among nameplates, Lexus ranked second and Toyota ranked fifth. Both brands moved up one slot in the annual rankings, which measure owner satisfaction with their vehicles in the past 12 months after three years of ownership. The rankings are based on the number of problems reported per 100 vehicles. The lower the number of reported problems, the higher the ranking.

Lexus owners surveyed reported 109 problems per 100 vehicles, improved from 115 last year, while Toyota owners reported 122 problems, improved from 128 last year. Both ranked well above the industry average of 159 problems per 100 vehicles as well as above the premium average of 141 problems per 100 vehicles. Scion moved up to 22nd from 30th, with 166 problems, an improvement 201 last year.

Lincoln ranked first with 101 problems per 100 vehicles. Hyundai ranked 10th, Honda, 11th; Ford, 12th; Chevrolet, 16th.

Click Here to read more.

Toyota Dominates Consumer Reports’ 10 Top Picks

2011-02-28T18:10:00.001-05:00

The Detroit News reported today that Toyota captured three of Consumer Reports’ 10 top picks in the consumer magazine’s annual rating, leading all automakers.

Prius was selected as the top “green” car for the eighth consecutive year; RAV4 was chosen as the Best Small SUV; and Sienna was named the best Family Hauler.

To learn more, click on this article from the Detroit News Click Here

Government: No Electronic Flaws in Toyotas

2011-02-08T14:50:00.003-05:00

WASHINGTON -- The Obama administration's investigation into Toyota safety problems found no electronic flaws to account for reports of sudden, unintentional acceleration and other safety problems. Government investigators said Tuesday the only known cause of the problems are mechanical defects that were fixed in previous recalls.

The Transportation Department, assisted by engineers with NASA, said its 10-month study of Toyota vehicles concluded there was no electronic cause of unintended high-speed acceleration in Toyotas. The study, which was launched at the request of Congress, responded to consumer complaints that flawed electronics could be the culprit behind Toyota's spate of recalls.

Click Here to read the full article!

Jim Lentz Paints Bright Future Ahead for Auto Dealers At National Convention

2011-02-07T15:56:00.003-05:00

Toyota Motor Sales President/COO Jim Lentz told dealers attending the annual National Automobile Dealers Association convention this weekend that the future of the auto industry is very bright and urged them to do a better job working with two rising consumer groups: women and Hispanics. We believe 2011 is just the beginning of a tremendous new growth period for our industry, Lentz told about 5,000 dealers who came to the opening session in San Francisco. In fact, we see a very bright future ahead for all of us. Lentz cited strong U.S. population growth, aging cars, high scrappage rates and the fact that cars are more affordable now than at most times in the preceding quarter century.

To take full advantage of that growth however, he told dealers, the auto industry has to do a better job managing online relationships and taking care of the needs of women, who have $200 billion dollars of purchasing power, and Hispanics, who spent an estimated $40 billion last year to buy new vehicles. That's where a lot of growth is in the future, he noted.

To read his full speech, please CLICK HERE

Toyota and Lexus Dominate IntelliChoice's™ Value of Year™ Awards

2011-02-07T15:37:00.002-05:00

Seven Toyota vehicles and four Lexus models took the top spots in IntelliChoice's 2011 Best Overall Value of the Year awards, which were announced Saturday at the 2011 National Automobile Dealers Association convention. With their combined 11 top honors, Toyota and Lexus won over half of the 21 total awards.

IntelliChoice determines the winners of the awards based on the top vehicles in 21 categories that represent the best overall value. Each winner is determined by analysis of ownership costs, including depreciation, maintenance, repairs, fuel, fees, financing and insurance.

Toyota Segment Winners
Passenger Car: Prius
Premium Passenger Car: Avalon
Compact Crossover/Wagon: RAV4 four-cylinder
Minivan: Sienna
SUV: 4Runner
Compact Pickup:Tacoma
Full-Size Pickup: Tundra

Lexus Segment Winners
Premium Compact Passenger Car: IS 250
Premium Convertible: IS 250C
Premium Crossover/Wagon:RX 350
Premium Full-Size SUV: GX 460

To read the news release, please CLICK HERE

Federal Judge Wants First Toyota Sudden-Acceleration Trial Held in 2013

2011-01-19T15:55:00.001-05:00

The federal judge overseeing the roughly 400 lawsuits against Toyota Motor Corporation for wrongful death, personal injury or lost vehicle value involving claims of unintended sudden acceleration said he wants the first case to be tried in early 2013.

U.S. District Judge James Selna in Santa Ana, Calif., said he expects all pre-trial discovery to be completed in 2012, clearing the way for trials to begin in 2013. Selna asked plaintiffs attorneys to be prepared to select so-called bellwether cases to be tried before him. He did not specify which type of case would go first.

Commenting on this latest development, Toyota spokeswoman Celeste Migliore said: We are pleased that the court has established a clear schedule for selecting bellwether cases and trial dates within 2013. Toyota has worked hard to ensure that these cases move forward quickly and efficiently.

GM and Chrysler Conducted More Recalls Than Toyota in 2010, Says NHTSA

2011-01-19T15:51:00.002-05:00

While Toyota recalled more vehicles than any other automaker in 2010, it ranked only third among automakers for the total number of recalls it conducted, according to an annual statistical report by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

Toyota conducted 17 recalls involving a total of 6,741,288 vehicles last year, NHTSA reported. By contrast, General Motors conducted 22 recalls affecting 4,027,280, and Chrysler conducted 18 recalls involving 1,623,120.

Ford and Nissan each conducted 16 recalls affecting 626,026 and 2,090,921 vehicles, respectively, and Honda conducted 14 recalls involving 2,289,928 vehicles.

GM's recalls included two recalls of roughly 70,000 vehicles each for sticking accelerator pedal and floor mat entrapment "the same reason for Toyota's two largest recalls. GM's largest recalls involved 1.3 million vehicles recalled for heated washer module may ignite and a fire may occur and 1.1 million vehicles recalled for sudden loss of power steering assist could occur.

Kelley Blue Book Says Toyota's Residual Values Remain Strong

2011-01-19T15:40:00.002-05:00

Despite the recalls, Toyota's residual values remained strong in 2010, Kelley Blue Book concludes in a report released today. Entitled, Toyota: One Year Later, the study notes that other factors such as "the economy, product cycles and gas prices" impacted the company more than the recalls.

The recalls did influence the opinions of new-car shoppers, and overall purchase consideration was down, along with market share. However, Kelley Blue Book says Toyota has taken action to repair its image and return as robust as ever.

Overall, Toyota's values navigated the gauntlet of the recall well, with little lasting effects on its residual values, the study concludes.

Key findings include:

-- Recalls had little impact on Toyota's used-car values, which generally performed in line with the rest of the used-car market.

-- Camry outperformed the mid-size segment, dropping 0.3 percent versus an overall segment drop of 2.1 percent.

-- Overall, the Toyota brand experienced only a minor 0.3 drop, enabling Toyota to maintain its second-place brand residual standing behind top brand Subaru for the 2011 model year.

To read the full report, please go Click Here

Toyota Reveals Prius Family of Vehicles at North American International Auto Show

2011-01-11T12:10:00.002-05:00

Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc., unveiled the Prius family of vehicles today at the 2011 North American International Auto Show. In addition to the current third-generation Prius and Prius Plug-in Hybrid Vehicle (PHV), the new Prius v mid-size hybrid-electric vehicle and the Prius c Concept vehicle joined the iconic hybrid brand, broadening the appeal of Prius to all ages and lifestyles.

With the expansion of the Prius family, a new evolution of vehicles will further increase the acceptance of hybrids with Prius™ same core values of high fuel economy, low emissions, proven technology and environmental stewardship.

The Prius mid-size liftback has accounted for more than 955,000 sales in the U.S. since it was introduced in 2000. The third-generation Prius, which reached dealerships in June 2009, has continued the hybrid's heritage of exceptional fuel economy and low emissions, while becoming the third-best selling Toyota passenger car in the U.S.

*Prius v: Versatility for Young, Active Families

The new Prius v, with expressing the vehicle's versatility, it will meet the needs of growing families with active lifestyles while providing the same attributes traditionally found in the Prius DNA. It will share the current generation Prius platform and Hybrid Synergy Drive technology. Featuring a compact exterior yet spacious interior, the Prius v will feature over 50-percent more interior cargo space than the current Prius.

Despite the spaciousness of a family friendly mid-size vehicle, the Prius v is expected to receive an estimated EPA fuel economy ratings of 42 mpg city, 38 mpg highway and 40 mpg combined, which could make it the best fuel economy ratings of any SUV, crossover, or wagon on the market. It will also emit 66-percent fewer smog-forming emissions than the average new vehicle.

Prius v will be one of the first Toyota's with the Entune multimedia system. For the first time ever in an automobile, this innovative new system leverages the mobile phone to provide a richer in-vehicle experience with fully integrated and wireless upgradeable navigation, entertainment and information services.
- The 2012 Prius v will go on sale in late summer 2011.

*Prius c Concept: Small city centric Hybrid Vehicle

While the current Prius has ushered hybrid technology into the mainstream, and the Prius v will provide the additional room and versatility for active families, compact shoppers are interested in a smaller hybrid at an entry price point and with superior fuel economy. The Prius c Concept, with c representing a city-centric vehicle, will appeal to young singles and couples who want an eco-sensitive, high-mileage, fun-to-drive Prius.

This dynamic vehicle with urban appeal will pursue outstanding fuel efficiency in a compact package, while also providing a surprisingly spacious interior. It will include many advanced technology features, including some offered on the current Prius.

Prius c Concept is the inspiration for an additional Prius family member that will come to market in the first half of 2012 and is expected to be the most value-oriented hybrid in the U.S. market with the highest mileage of any cordless hybrid.

Prius Plug-In Vehicle: the Best of Both Worlds Since its initial launch 10 years ago, one of the Prius main efficiencies has been a hybrid system with its own on-board recharging system that never needed to be plugged in to take people where they wanted to go. With the addition of new technology and shifts in the market, the Prius Plug-in Hybrid is the family member that represents the best of both worlds the superior fuel economy of the Prius with added EV driving capability.

Depending on driving conditions, Prius Plug-in can be driven approximately 13 miles on battery power at speeds up to 60 mph. Its compact Lithium-ion battery provides less weight and a quicker recharging time, taking three hours on 110 volts and 1.7 hours on 220 volts. It can be topped off anytime with a convenient short charge.

After the EV power is depleted, the Plug-in performs like an economical third-generation Prius, which is the most fuel efficient mid-size hybrid vehicle in America. Unlike pure EVs, it will be a seamless transition for consumers, with the only difference from a regular Prius is that it can be plugged in at convenient intervals.

Currently, more than 150 Lithium-ion-battery powered Prius Plug-ins are part of a demonstration program in several U.S. cities. The program's goal is to demonstrate plug-in technology, educate and inform the public, evaluate performance, and better understand the benefits to future customers. This will help pave the way for an on-sale target in the first half of 2012.

When it comes to market, the Prius Plug-in will represent the most eco-sensitive and advanced choice within the Prius brand of products.

To Learn More: Please CLICK HERE

2010 Results: Toyota #1 in Retail Sales, Lexus #1 in Luxury Market, Scion Youngest Brand

2011-01-05T09:54:00.002-05:00

While Toyota Motor Sales (TMS) today reported annual sales of 1,763,595 vehicles that were flat compared to CY 2009 on a daily selling rate basis, Toyota retained the retail sales crown, Lexus remained the luxury sales leader and Scion was the youngest brand in the industry, with a median age of 29.

New Years is typically a time for reflection and anticipation and that's never been more true for us at Toyota Motor Sales, said Don Esmond, senior vice president of Automotive Operations, during a conference call with journalists. We are coming off what was arguably the most challenging time in our 53-year history. And I know I've never headed into a new year with as much excitement and anticipation as we are headed into 2011.

Now I know the common perception is that Toyota has been reeling this year as a result of those recalls, he added. But, in fact, the final results include some remarkable accomplishments any company would love to report.

In addition to winning the sales titles, Esmond noted that Camry was the best-selling passenger car in America for the ninth time, and Corolla, Tacoma and the Lexus RX all repeated as segment sales leaders.

Toyota also was the industry leader in certified used vehicle sales, setting a new company record of more than 315,000 and a single-year industry record as well.

Looking ahead, the company is forecasting an industry sales increase of about one million units to 12.5 million in 2011 and 13.7 in 2012. And at Toyota, we expect to outperform the industry, said Esmond. He cited the loyalty of Toyota owners to the brand, the return of strong conquest numbers on trade-ins (55-58 percent), consumer perceptions of quality and value, and the introduction of several new products.

And that's just the start, he continued, noting that 2011 will bring a new member of the Prius family, the new Scion iQ, the new Lexus CT 200h hybrid and the introduction of the Toyota Entune System.

To read the press release posted on the Toyota USA Newsroom, please Click Here

Meet the Newest Member of the Prius Family

2010-12-29T10:01:00.009-05:00

On January 10, 2011, Toyota will unveil the newest member of the Prius family at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit.

The New 2012 Prius is said to be in Toyota showrooms early this coming summer. The new Prius will be a plug-in Hybrid, the first of its kind for Toyota. Stay tuned for your exclusive inside sneak peek from DARCARS Toyota.

To view DARCARS current Prius inventory Click Here

New Front-Door Glass Virtually Eliminates Harmful Ultraviolet Penetration

2010-12-22T15:27:00.001-05:00

In what is believed to be a world first, Toyota Motor Corporation has announced that it will begin using car-front door glass that reduces ultraviolet (UV) penetration by approximately 99 percent. TMC estimates the resulting sunburn protection is equivalent to wearing gloves while driving. The new glass will be used in the new Vitz scheduled to go on sale in Japan later this month.

Windshields, which use laminated glass, can reduce UV penetration by approximately 99percent by inserting a UV-blocking film between two sheets of glass in the laminating process. Car-door windows, on the other hand, generally use single-piece tempered glass that is often imbued with a UV-absorbing material to achieve approximately 89% UV protection. Getting the UV-reduction performance of door-window glass closer to 100% requires the use of UV absorption technologies. The interior side of the door-window glass to be used in the new Vitz has been surfaced with a high-performance UV-absorbing film to achieve approximately 99% UV-reduction performance.

Toyota Has Two New Claims to Fame

2010-12-22T15:16:00.001-05:00

"Toyota is the most fuel-efficient major automotive manufacturer"

Source: Based on NHTSA Final Industry MY09 CAFÉ data for Toyota Motor Sales

Toyota Prius is 66 percent cleaner for smog-forming emissions than the average new car on the road.
Source: TMS commissioned a study by Sierra Research to establish the emissions of the average new car on the road for the next several years. Toyota can now provide emission comparisons for ALL of our vehicles vs. the average new car on the road.

Toyota, Lexus, Scion Earn 8 Top SafetyPick™ Awards

2010-12-22T14:54:00.002-05:00

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) today announced that eight Toyota, Lexus and Scion vehicles were among 66 winners of Top Safety Pick awards for 2011.

Responding to the announcement, Toyota said it is pleased to have received eight IIHS Top Safety Picks for 2011, which we believe is reflective of our ongoing commitment to developing safe and reliable vehicles for our customers.

The eight winners are: Toyota Avalon, Corolla, Highlander, Sienna and Venza; Lexus RX, and Scion tc and xB. Only two automakers had more winners: Hyundai/Kia and Volkswagen/Audi each had nine. Sienna was the only minivan to make the list.

Top Safety Pick awards recognize vehicles that do the best job of protecting people in front, side, rollover and rear crashes based on good ratings in IIHS tests. Winners also must have available electronic stability control, a crash avoidance feature that significantly reduces crash risk.

Check Out Toyota's New YouTube Videos

2010-12-17T11:10:00.008-05:00

Watch Grandmaw do the worm!

Sweaters!

Toyota Regains Top Spot for Most-Considered Brand

2010-12-14T13:36:00.002-05:00

According to the latest Kelley Blue Book www.kbb.com Market Intelligence Brand Watch™ study, embattled automaker Toyota has regained the top spot as the most-considered auto brand among new-car shoppers. To read more about the kbb.com study and to see how other brands compare follow the link below.
Click Here to Read More

Toyota Dominates Forbes List of Most Reliable Vehicles

2010-12-10T15:39:00.000-05:00

Five Toyota and Lexus vehicles made the Forbes list of 10 cars that will make it past 200,000 miles. The Five are Toyota Yaris, Sienna, FJ Cruiser and Tundra (V-6) and the Lexus LX. That's half of the entire list, no other brand came close to that. Rounding out the list were Ford Fusion Hybrid, Ford Flex, Honda CR-V, Acura RL, and Porsche Boxster.

To read the Forbes story, please Click Here

Toyota Shareathon

2010-12-06T10:06:00.010-05:00

Toyota has created a targeted and concentrated program to encourage consumers to spread the word about Toyotathon. During Toyota Shareathon interested consumers will be encouraged to spread the word about Toyotathon via Twitter. A lucky 2,000 people will be rewarded with the opportunity to earn a $500 prepaid debit card, assuming they purchase a new Toyota during the defined promotional period. Follow the link below for more information.

Click Here for more information on Toyota Shareathon

Toyota to Demo Prius Plug-In Hybrid Vehicles in New York City

2010-12-02T12:04:00.002-05:00

New York, NY (December 2, 2010) – Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc announced today that New York City will join the company’s U.S. Prius Plug-in Hybrid vehicle (PHV) demonstration program. Five new Prius Plug-in Hybrid vehicles (PHVs) will be used on city streets as part of Toyota’s partnership with the New York City Department of Transportation (NYCDOT) and the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey.

Click Here to Read the full article

Meet Anna, a customer from DARCARS Toyota!

2010-11-24T11:27:00.009-05:00

Report Highlight: Toyota’s Environmental Record, Progress in North America

2010-11-22T14:07:00.001-05:00

Toyota today released its 10th annual North American Environmental Report, highlighting the company’s progress over the last fiscal year, ending March 31, 2010.

“Toyota is fully committed to sustainability across our operations,”
said Dian Ogilvie, senior vice president and chief environmental officer at Toyota Motor North America. “In addition to developing technologically advanced,fuel efficient vehicles, we consider the environmental, social and economic consequences of everything we do.”

To read the press release, please visit the Toyota USA Newsroom Click Here

To read the full report, please Click Here

Toyota Unveils 100-Mile Range, RAV4 EV Demonstration Vehicle

2010-11-22T13:58:00.000-05:00

Today, Toyota debuted the second-generation Toyota RAV4 EV powered by Tesla at the Los Angeles Auto Show. A total of 35 vehicles will be built for a demonstration and evaluation program through 2011, aiming at market arrival of a fully-engineered vehicle in 2012. The fully-engineered vehicle will have a target range of 100 miles in actual road driving patterns, in a wide range of climates and conditions.

The vehicle is the first product of a relationship between Toyota and Tesla Motors. The Toyota Motor Engineering and Manufacturing North America (TEMA) Technical Center in Michigan led the development. Tesla was responsible for building and supplying the battery, as well as other
related parts.

Toyota also incorporated Tesla’s streamlined, quick-action approach to development, which Toyota engineers refer to as“fast and flexible.”

The new development model helped reduce development time without compromising
product quality.

To read the press release posted on the Toyota USA Newsroom, Click Here

Toyota, Honda Vehicles Earn 6 of Top 10 Federal Fuel-Economy Slots for 2011

2010-11-04T13:25:00.002-04:00

Toyota and Honda captured six of the U.S. governments top 10 Fuel Economy ratings for 2011, the Environmental Protection Agency and Energy Department announced today. Toyota Prius had the top rating at 51 mpg city/ 48 mpg highway. Ford, the only Detroit-based automaker to have a vehicle in the top 10, placed second with the Fusion Mercury Milan and Lincoln MKZ hybrids. Honda placed third with the Civic and Insight Hybrids and fourth with the CR-Z Hybrids.

To view the EPA chart please Click Here

Toyota Retains Retail Sales Crown; Lexus Sales Increase in October

2010-11-04T13:16:00.003-04:00

Toyota Motor Sales (TMS) today reported October sales of 145,474 vehicles, a decrease of 0.9 percent from the same period last year on a daily selling basis (DSR). On a raw volume basis, unadjusted for the 27 selling days in October 2010 compared to the 28 days in October 2009, TMS sales were down 4.4 percent from last October. However, year-to-date, TMS sales were up 1.4 percent on a DSR basis.

Toyota Division Group Vice President and General Manager Bob Carter said that Toyota remained the industry retail sales champ, selling more new cars and trucks to individual consumers than any other brand. In addition, Camry retained its position as the No. 1 selling passenger car again, he said, and the new Highlander and Scion tC models were off to strong starts, up 50 and 112 percent, respectively, for the month.

Carter also pointed out that October marked the first time in many months that sales growth was faster on the retail side than the fleet side, and that truck sales topped 52 percent of the industry total, the highest level in a long time. He said both indicators point to stability in the retail market and that is a good sign for the industry.

Lexus Group Vice President and General Manager Mark Templin noted that Lexus sales were not only up, but half of all new vehicle sales were to customers new to the brand. For October, the Lexus Division posted sales of 21,091 vehicles, up 12.2 percent over the same month last year.

Sales of light trucks, which include pickups, minivans and SUVs, were up in both divisions, compared to last October, with Toyota up 22.0 percent and Lexus up 17.6 percent.

To read the press release, please Click Here

To view the sales chart, please Click Here

Toyota Dominates Consumer Reports Reliability Survey and Recommendations

2010-10-26T17:02:00.004-04:00

Toyota dominated the highly respected Consumer Reports Annual Car Reliability Survey with 17 Toyota, Scion and Lexus vehicles being ranked as “most reliable” and 12 making the “recommended” list, more in both categories than any other automaker. Overall, Scion ranked No. 1 in the survey, with the Toyota and Lexus nameplates ranking in the top 9.

The reliability findings are based on responses to a survey this spring of 1.3 million vehicles owned or leased by Consumer Reports magazine or web site subscribers. Its recommendations are based on the reliability survey rankings and vehicle tests conducted by the magazine. Consumer Reports said safety was a main focus of the vehicle tests this year.

The report is one of the most highly anticipated by consumers and is the third most influential factor in choosing a new vehicle after “brand loyalty”and “family/friends,” according to a recent survey.

Five TMS vehicles were ranked most reliable and scored the highest in their category: Yaris, FJ Cruiser, Lexus LX, Sienna (V6 FWD) and the Tundra V6.

To read Consumer Reports news release on the survey, click below:
Click Here to View News Release

Consumer Reports Reinstates Recommendations on Eight Recalled Toyotas

2010-10-26T16:52:00.006-04:00

Consumer Reports announced today that it is reinstating the recommendations for eight Toyota models that were recalled in January. “We believe that Toyota has
adequately addressed the problem of unintended acceleration and that its new vehicles on sale now are fundamentally safe,” the consumer organization said in a blog on
its web site. The move means the Avalon, Camry, Corolla, Highlander, Matrix, RAV4,
Sequoia and Tundra are all now on the Consumer Reports “recommended list”. The move coincides with the strong performance of Toyota, Scion and Lexus products on Consumer Reports Annual Car Survey (see story below).

To read the blog, please click the link below:

Click Here To View Blog

Toyota Brake Fluid Recall Vehicles Updated

2010-10-25T15:58:00.002-04:00

The October 20 Fast Facts story on the brake fluid recall inadvertently left out model years for the Toyota Highlanders involved in the action. Model years 2004-2006 Non-Hybrid Highlanders are affected.

To review the recall please click below:
Click Here

NHTSA Complaints About Toyota Are Now Lower Than Some Other Automakers

2010-10-25T15:33:00.002-04:00

An Edmunds.com analysis of NHTSA complaint database shows that complaints per 100,000vehicles in September were lower for Toyota than many of the seven largest-selling automakers. The report goes on to point out, “Although Toyota makes us a majority of the complaints composition today, most of this was due to the extensive media coverage earlier on.” According to a chart published by Edmuds.com in the article, Chrysler had 5.3 complaints per 100,000 vehicles in September, Nissan, had 4.9, Hyundai had 3.1, GM had 2.8 and Ford and Toyota were tied at 2.7. Honda had the lowest complains at 2.2 per 100,000 vehicles. “All automakers have received an increased number of complaints for all types of problems with their cars,” said Edmunds.com Analyst Panee Segal.

To Read More, Click Here

1. NHTSA Chief Calls Toyota’s Quick Action on Brake Fluid Recall “Fantastic”

2010-10-25T14:44:00.004-04:00

David Strickland, head of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has singled out Toyota this week for improvements on safety matters and its quick action on Wednesday’s brake fluid recall. During an interview with The Detroit News, Strickland citied a change in how Toyota approaches defects and said the automaker is “working very hard to be a better company going forward.” Separately, Strickland told Bloomberg that Toyota found the brake-fluid flaw on its own with no prompting from NHTSA, adding, “They notified the agency [NHTSA] as soon as they knew, which is fantastic, and they took affirmative action, which is the right thing to do.”

Strickland also praised all automakers for moving faster on recalls. According to The Detroit News, automakers have recalled about 15 million vehicles in about 500 separate campaigns this year, a number that’s on pace to hit the highest number of vehicles called back since 2005.

To read The Detroit News article, Click Here

New Toyota Prius Minivan

2010-10-14T11:57:00.012-04:00

Toyota posts a teaser Image of the New Prius Minivan

Click Here For More Info

2010 Toyota Camry Stuck-Throttle Brake Test

2010-03-17T13:49:00.002-04:00

Can you use the brake pedal to stop a car in the midst of unintended acceleration?

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Toyota: Overcoming Bad Press - CNBC.com

2010-03-17T13:47:00.000-04:00

Toyota: Overcoming Bad Press - CNBC.com

Official investigation of runaway Prius begins to answer questions — Autoblog

2010-03-16T11:16:00.000-04:00

Official investigation of runaway Prius begins to answer questions — Autoblog

Theodore H. Frank: I am not afraid of my Toyota Prius | Washington Examiner

2010-03-13T11:26:00.000-05:00

Theodore H. Frank: I am not afraid of my Toyota Prius | Washington Examiner

Toyota Hybrid Horror Hoax

2010-03-13T10:34:00.002-05:00

Exploring an overblown media frenzy.

"On the very day Toyota was making a high-profile defense of its cars, one of them was speeding out of control," said CBS News--and a vast number of other media outlets worldwide. The driver of a 2008 Toyota Prius, James Sikes, called 911 to say his accelerator was stuck, he was zooming faster than 90 miles per hour and absolutely couldn't slow down. READ MORE

ABC admits tinkering with Toyota story: U.S. media+

2010-03-13T10:30:00.000-05:00

ABC admits tinkering with Toyota story: U.S. media+