Our goal at North Hills Toyota is to make YOUR experience nothing but the best whether you are buying a new or pre-owned vehicle or servicing your current vehicle. For more than a decade, North Hills Toyota has provided products and prices with a no-hassle professional approach to the Pittsburgh area and plan on doing so for many years to come.
In addition to offering a hybrid powertrain, the new Avalon features a stunning design, improved dynamic performance, a greater degree of refinement, and a highly spacious, comfortable interior experience with an abundance of outstanding convenience technologies.
Powerful, Efficient V6 Engine
The 2013 Avalon will feature a proven 3.5-liter, DOHC V6 engine coupled with a six-speed automatic transaxle, which has been enhanced to offer more responsive and efficient performance. The all-aluminum six-cylinder engine will produce 268 horsepower and 248 lbs. ft. of torque, which will propel the new sedan to 60 mph in under seven seconds. Compared to the previous-generation Avalon, this 2013 powertrain combination offers improved fuel economy, performance, superior shift feel and response, with upgraded drivability and quietness.
This enhanced powertrain’s programming has been updated to offer ECO, NORMAL, and SPORT Modes. The ECO mode prioritizes fuel efficiency by reducing power application at lower speeds and reducing energy consumed by the air-conditioning system. The SPORT Mode provides increased acceleration responses though altered engine control unit (ECU) programming, and it offers a more direct and responsive EPS programming to enhance steering feel.
In addition, the new transaxle is equipped with a numerically lower differential gear drive ratio (3.23), designed to help improve fuel economy. The V6-powered 2013 Avalon achieves an EPA-rated 25 mpg combined (21 city/ 31 hwy).
The transmission operation has been made more efficient and responsive with the adoption of a flex-start control feature lock-up clutch. With lock-up control, the transmission’s torque converter fully engages at a lower RPM during standing starts to improve acceleration response and help suppress unnecessary engine revolutions. The new transmission is also kept at an optimal temperature with an automatic-transmission fluid warmer, helping enhance efficiency.
The multi-mode automatic transmission console shifter offers a D range and can be moved into an S-mode gate, which allows manually operated sequential shifting using the console shifter or available (Touring and Limited models) steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters. The gear can be selected by moving the shifter up to (+) position or lower using the (-) position to experience highly responsive shifts. By using the paddles or in S-range, the transmission uses a quick responding shift-logic that includes throttle blipping for downshifts. The gear changes and range-of-gear selections are displayed in the color multi-information display.
Avalon Adds Toyota Hybrid Synergy Drive
For consumers seeking a premium mid-size sedan with excellent fuel economy ratings and an environmental message, the new Avalon features a full power-split hybrid system. Coupled with reductions in vehicle weight and improvements in aerodynamics, the Avalon Hybrid is expects to achieve impressive fuel economy ratings. The 2013 Avalon incorporates the latest advances in Toyota Hybrid Synergy Drive technology, building upon Toyota’s 14 years of hybrid-development experience. The Avalon Hybrid features a 2.5-liter, Atkinson-cycle, four-cylinder engine, a 244.8-volt nickel-metal hydride battery pack, and a pair of electric motor/generators within the transaxle. A power-control unit located in the engine compartment houses an inverter, a DC-DC converter, a step-up converter (raises voltage to a maximum of 650 volts) and the hybrid-drive ECU, which governs the seamless operation of electric-motor power application and regenerative braking. The power control unit relies on liquid cooling to maintain an efficient temperature.
The Avalon Hybrid achieves a total system output of 200 horsepower and offers three unique modes of operation: EV, ECO and SPORT. The Avalon Hybrid models achieve an EPA-rated 40 mpg in the city, and a 39 mpg on the highway for a combined 40 mpg EPA-rating.
The 2013 Avalon Hybrid offers an EV mode that, under certain conditions, allows the vehicle to operate solely on electric propulsion. EV mode can be engaged, provided other conditions are correct, for up to one mile at speeds up to 25 mph, providing an all-electric option that is convenient in residential areas or parking garages.
The ECO drive mode engages the gasoline motor, but reduces throttle response and HVAC output to help improve overall efficiency. The SPORT Mode takes full advantage of the new Avalon’s dynamic character, improved chassis, and enhanced suspension by altering the engine’s throttle response and enhancing steering feel.
The Avalon’s hybrid’s battery pack is comprised of 204 cells and is located in the vehicle trunk behind the rear seats, while still providing ample trunk space. The scroll casing for the battery cooling system’s blower fan has been designed to produce extremely quiet and efficient airflow, helping reduce interior noise and elevating refinement. The power-control unit, located in the engine bay, houses the inverter, DC-DC converter.
The efficient hybrid transaxle in the new Avalon contains two high-output electric motor/generators, a power-split device, an open differential and the final drive ratio. Motor/Generator 1 (MG1) is used to start the gasoline engine and generate the energy that is returned to the battery to power the system. Motor/Generator 2 (MG2) is primarily responsible for electric drivetrain propulsion and regenerative braking. The hybrid vehicle transaxle also incorporates a flywheel-damper design that helps reduce noise and vibration during engine engagement.
Captivating Styling with a Spacious, Luxurious Interior Experience
The new 2013 Avalon is the product of a North American-focused design and engineering effort. The new sedan’s striking exterior and luxurious interior design was conceived by a youthful, talented team at the Calty Design Research Inc., facilities in Southern California and Michigan.
The car’s engineering development was led by a passionate and dedicated group based at Toyota Technical Center in Ann Arbor, Mich. Continuing a North American focus, the 2013 Avalon will be assembled at the award-winning Toyota Motor Manufacturing Kentucky (TMMK) facility in Georgetown, Ky.
True to the future product mission set forth by Toyota Motor Corporation President Akio Toyoda, the new Avalon’s more stylish, bold, sporty exterior design and luxurious interior styling are matched by an enhanced dynamic package, a combination that foreshadows the more compelling and passionate nature of future Toyota products.
*Courtesy of Toyota USA Newsroom
Courtesy of Digital Trends
V2H, or vehicle-to-home, systems could turn the car in your driveway into a backup generator.
Future cars will be getting most of their energy from wall sockets, which means that more electricity will be drawn from the grid. However, that does not mean that tomorrow’s car will be just another energy-sucking appliance. Toyota is testing a system that will allow its Prius plug-in hybrid to power a house.
The Prius plug-in can recharge its batteries through an outlet, like a fully electric car, but it still has a gasoline engine for backup power. Toyota reckons that this engine can also generate electricity for a Prius owner’s house during power outages or periods of peak load.
An inverter converts the DC used by the Prius’ electric motor into AC for household use. Software allows the car, house, and charging stand to monitor the flow of current back and forth. The company estimates that a Prius with a fully charged battery and a full tank of gas can power the average Japanese house for four days.
Toyota says this new system will produce greener electricity by drawing it from the grid (or gas tank) at the best times. “With this new method, low-carbon electricity generated from regional or home solar generators, or low-cost late-night electricity, can be stored in a vehicle’s drive battery and then used to supply power to the household during peak consumption times,” the company said in a statement.
Toyota also said that V2H (vehicle-to-home) systems like the one being developed for the Prius could power emergency shelters during a disaster.
The company will begin testing the Prius V2H system in 10 Japanese homes by the end of 2012. If the test is successful, Toyota could move on to developing apps that would allow homeowners to control the flow of power between their cars and houses with smart phones.
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Courtesy of Toyota Pressroom
Toyota today announced the first 25 winners of the Toyota 100 Cars for Good program, a national philanthropic program that is awarding 100 cars to 100 nonprofits over the course of 100 consecutive days. Winners are selected each day through public voting on Facebook at www.100carsforgood.com.
DC Scores
| Washington, DC | May 14, 2012 |
Cincinnati Zoo
| Cincinnati, Ohio | May 15, 2012 |
Lehmi County Humane Society
| Salmon, Idaho | May 16, 2012 |
Pibbles & More Animal Rescue
| Ridgewood, New York | May 17, 2012 |
Recycled Doggies, Inc.
| Cincinnati, Ohio | May 18, 2012 |
Hope for Paws Animal Rescue
| Los Angeles, California | May 19, 2012 |
The Dream Center
| Los Angeles, California | May 20, 2012 |
SPCA International's Operation Baghdad Pups
| New York, New York | May 21, 2012 |
Petfinder Foundation
| Tucson, Arizona | May 22, 2012 |
Together We Rise
| Chino, California | May 23, 2012 |
The Children’s Lunchbox
| Anchorage, Alaska | May 24, 2012 |
All Hands Volunteers
| Carlisle, Massachusetts | May 25, 2012 |
Detroit Dog Rescue | Grosse Pointe Woods, Michigan | May 26, 2012 |
Fences for Fido
| Portland, Oregon | May 27, 2012 |
Central Vermont Humane Society
| East Montpelier, Vermont | May 28, 2012 |
Operation Blankets of Love
| Granada Hills, California | May 29, 2012 |
Kristie’s Foundation
| Anaheim, California | May 30, 2012 |
K9 Services German Shepherd Rescue, Inc.
| Middleburg, Florida | May 31, 2012 |
Animal Aid, Inc.
| Oakland Park, Florida | June 1, 2012 |
Clark County Community Services
| Winchester, Kentucky | June 2, 2012 |
Shore Hearts Golden Retriever
| Lanoka Harbor, New Jersey | June 3, 2012 |
Special Olympics Illinois
| Normal, Illinois | June 4, 2012 |
Last Chance Ranch
| Quakertown, Pennsylvania | June 5, 2012 |
Rikki’s Refuge
| Rapidan, Virginia | June 6, 2012 |
Feed My Sheep
| Gulfport, Mississippi | June 7, 2012 |
Winning organizations can choose from the following vehicles: Camry Hybrid, Highlander SUV, Prius v Hybrid, Sienna minivan, Sienna Mobility or Tundra full-sized pickup. A six-year, 100,000-mile powertrain warranty will also be provided for each vehicle, compliments of Toyota Financial Services.
Nowadays, many drivers have roadside assistance services that will come fix your flats, but it's always smart to know how to change a flat yourself. Because it's a fairly common occurrence, car manufacturers have tried to make the tire change process one that virtually anyone can do.
It's a good idea to get your car serviced before heading out on a road trip. Part of the checkup should include a look at the tires.
Look for any unevenly worn spots, or skimpy tread. If the tires are iffy, invest in new ones. You'll need them eventually anyway, and it's better to start out on a trip with new tires than have a blow-out in the middle of nowhere.
Even if you're not heading on a trip, you should familiarize yourself with the tools you'll use in the event of a flat tire. Most cars come equipped with a simple jack and lug wrench, as well as a spare tire. Check your owner's manual if you aren't sure how to access these items.
Pull out the jack and the tire, and make sure the tire is in good shape. If your spare is flat, get it fixed.
It only takes a few minutes to make sure you have all the tools, and you'll save yourself a big headache later if you find yourself on the side of the road with a flat.
Besides the crucial jack, wrench, and spare tire, you might also want to consider placing these tools in your trunk to make a tire change much easier and more comfortable:
Follow these simple steps to fix the problem and be on your way in no time:
Once in a while, a tire isn't completely destroyed when it goes flat. If the flat is caused by a nail or other sharp object, and you can't or don't want to change your tire on the side of the road, you may be able to give yourself a few miles of leeway by using a flat-fix type spray.
Simply follow the manufacturer's directions. In ideal situations, the spray foam will allow you to at least find a close off-ramp and pull into a service station or a rest stop before you have to change your tire.
Courtesy of DMV.org
Amazement Square from Lynchburg, VA and Last Chance Ranch from Quakertown, PA are finalists today for the 100 Cars for Good program! Voting is opened now to 11:59 p.m. ET. Please make sure to take a few minutes to vote.
Courtesy of Kelley Blue Book
The c is the smallest member of the growing Prius family, which includes the familiar hatchback that is synonymous with hybrids, a larger wagon, and a plug-in model. The budget-friendly c offers up to 53 mpg in city driving, seating for five, and more cargo space than its subcompact dimensions might suggest. It all adds up to make Prius c the perfect choice for those seeking a practical, inexpensive, stylish way to save fuel.
Prevent Engine Overheating
Pay Attention To Tires
Courtesy of Car-Use.net