Thursday, September 27, 2012
Wednesday, September 26, 2012
Time to get those brakes changed? For a limited time only North Hills Toyota is offering a special to our Fans and Followers.
Normal 0 false false false EN-US X-NONE X-NONE
Time to get those brakes changed? You're in luck! For a limited time only North Hills Toyota is offering a special to our Fans and Followers. Click on the link and claim your service coupon today! http://bit.ly/OUPAbu
Tuesday, September 25, 2012
Monday, September 24, 2012
Toyota's Ultimate Fishing Tundra Build Underway for SEMA
Knowing that two heads, or in this case five, are usually better than one, Myers also solicited ideas from the Toyota Tundra Pro Angler team of Kevin VanDam, Terry "Big Show" Scroggins, Mike Iaconelli and Gerald "G-Man" Swindle, an accomplished group of anglers who also know a thing or two about fishing rigs.
Myers, who owns North Carolina-based CS Motorsports, then turned his team loose on a 2012 Tundra CrewMax. Toyota's brawniest full-size pickup has towing and payload capacities that make short work of hauling a pro bass fishing boat and gear, so Myers turned the lion's share of his attention on enhancing the bass fisherman's life.
Says Myers, "it will have a bed-area tackle storage system that looks like a Bass Pro Shop aisle. It'll have tackle, reels, rods and even a refrigerator." For an extra-handy touch, Myers and his team are making all the gear in the bed easily accessible by utilizing an automatic, motorized delivery system.
Looking to enhance comfort and entertainment, the CS Motorsports crew replaced the rear bench with bucket seats and custom-built a fiberglass console that stretches from the dash to the rear cab wall and includes built-in video monitors and subwoofers. Both front doors receive custom panels that will house extra speakers and video monitors to play fishing videos and display Navionics lake-mapping options.
Outside, the beefy Tundra gets a TRD Big Brake Kit and a 12-inch suspension lift—a little extra insurance against muddy bogs and steep lakeshore boat launches. A custom roof rack with special LED lighting and fishing rod storage will also be installed, along with a specially-designed grille to set off the styling of this unique rig.
Leaving no lake un-fished, Myers' team couldn't resist adding a TRD supercharger and exhaust system. The extra power and torque will be appreciated for the likely extra load from a successful day of fishing.
This unique Tundra will be on display at the 2012 SEMA Show alongside several other custom Toyota vehicles, including those from the Toyota Racing Dream Build Challenge . The four Dream Build cars and trucks are being individually created by four of Toyota's top racing drivers: Kyle Busch and Clint Bowyer from NASCAR, plus Antron Brown and Alexis DeJoria from NHRA.
Voting for the winner of the Toyota Racing Dream Build Challenge will open on Oct. 20 and will continue through Oct. 29. The final vehicle builds will be unveiled—and the winning driver and charity announced—during Toyota’s press conference at the SEMA Show in Las Vegas on Oct. 30.
*Courtesy of Toyota USA Newsroom
Thursday, September 20, 2012
Wednesday, September 19, 2012
We are pleased to offer you the convenience of online scheduling for your service appointments!
Just follow the four easy steps to search our service availability in real-time, 24hours a day. Then immediately make and confirm your appointment without picking up the phone. Follow the link to set your appointment today! http://bit.ly/UqsErf
Tuesday, September 18, 2012
2013 Toyota Sienna Adds New Standard Amenities
Designed specifically with North American customers in mind, the current-generation Sienna, introduced for the 2011 model year, was primarily designed by Toyota’s Calty Design Research, developed at Toyota Technical Center in Ann Arbor, Mich., and is assembled at Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Indiana.
For the 2013 model year, most grades of the Sienna gain new amenities and refinements. The popular LE grade adds a standard three-zone automatic climate control system. The system features a cabin air filter, along with individual temperature settings for the driver, front passenger and rear-seat passengers. The rear passengers have a separate digital control panel.
The 2013 Sienna Limited and XLE gains a standard Blind Spot Monitor, and this feature is now also available as a stand-alone option on the SE grade. A standard acoustic windshield is also new on Limited and XLE models.
Design
The Toyota Sienna conveys a distinctive presence in the family van segment. Its sculpted shape yields a coefficient of drag (Cd) of .306, which is low for the class and a major factor in providing a quiet interior and admirable fuel economy. Distinctive window shapes and sliding door tracks hidden within the side window frames complement the sleek profile.
The Sienna interior features upscale quality and elegance, yet every element is logical and functional. The distinctive swept shape of the dashboard makes the spacious cabin feel even roomier. The seat designs add flexibility and roominess, while central climate and audio controls are integrated into a single graphic element.
Power and Efficiency
The Sienna’s standard 3.5-liter V6 generates 266 horsepower at 6,200 rpm, with EPA-estimated mileage ratings of 18 mpg city/25 mpg highway (16 mpg city/23 mpg highway on AWD models). Dual Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i), roller rocker arms and an Acoustically Controlled Induction System (ACIS) optimize torque across the engine speed range. The powerful engine is matched with an electronically controlled six-speed automatic transmission with sequential shift that provides a smooth gearshift feeling and quiet performance. The Sienna can tow a trailer up to 3,500 pounds.
Electronic Power Steering (EPS) and a wide stance help deliver a solid, direct on-road feel. Aerodynamic under-body elements also contribute to Sienna’s dynamic performance.
Entune™ Multimedia System
Sienna will offer the Toyota Entune™ multimedia system with Navigation on LE, SE, and XLE grades. Entune is a collection of popular mobile applications and data services, with three years of complimentary access. Once a smart phone is connected to the vehicle using Bluetooth wireless technology or a USB cable, Entune’s features are operated using the vehicle’s controls, or for some services by voice recognition. Entune offers mobile apps for Bing™, iHeartRadio, MovieTickets.com, OpenTable®, and Pandora®. Entune data services include a fuel price guide, sports scores, stocks, traffic and weather.
Models and Features
The 2013 Sienna is available in five grades: Sienna grade, LE, SE, XLE and Limited. All-wheel-drive is available on LE, XLE and Limited models. The value-driven Sienna grade and popular LE are equipped with a wide array of standard features that include cruise control, Daytime Running Lights with manual on/off feature, tri-zone air conditioning, six- or eight-way-adjustable driver’s captain’s chair, power windows with auto up/down and jam protection, AM/FM CD player with four speakers, XM compatibility, auxiliary input jack, power door locks, remote keyless entry, and three 12V outlets, among other amenities.
The Sienna LE model is upgraded with even more standard features including three-zone automatic climate control (new for 2013), eight-way power driver’s seat, four-way power front passenger seat, dual power-sliding doors and power rear liftgate, an eight-way power driver seat with power lumbar support, electrochromatic rearview mirror with integrated Homelink™, multi-information display with backup camera, rear window sunshades, AM/FM/MP3 CD player, integrated SiriusXM® satellite radio capability with 90 day trial subscription, auxiliary audio jack, USB port with iPod® connectivity, hands-free phone capability and music streaming via Bluetooth®, and steering wheel audio controls.
The XLE builds on the LE, adding features such as leather-trimmed seats, tilt/slide moonroof, anti-theft system with engine immobilizer, and heated front seats. Select optional XLE equipment includes a 10-speaker JBL® premium sound system with voice-activated DVD Navigation and Panorama rear camera with integrated back-up guides, XM® NavTraffic capability with 90 day trial subscription, rear-seat Dual View Entertainment system, rear sonar, Smart Key, and an auxiliary audio jack and USB port with iPod connectivity.
The Sienna Limited offers top-of-line luxury in a family van. The standard equipment list is extensive, including a second-row Lounge Seating and a power 60/40 Split & Stow third-row seat, front and rear parking sonar, Smart Key that also operates on both sliding doors, Safety Connect™, and independently powered, slide opening dual moonroofs. Select options include those available on the XLE, plus HID auto high-beam auto-high beam headlamps, rain-sensing wipers, and Pre-Collision System (PCS) with Dynamic Radar Cruise Control.
Sporty SE
The Sienna SE is designed for those who appreciate an even sportier design with responsive performance. The front shows a bolder appearance, while the side skirting visually lowers the vehicle and hugs the standard 19-inch alloy wheels. Smoked taillights make a distinctive statement. The Sienna SE sits lower on a sport-tuned suspension, for even sharper handling, and it comes with exclusive instrumentation and unique interior colors and trim. New for 2013, the SE gains chrome-accented outside door handles.
Interior Versatility
Sienna’s open field of view creates an airy, roomy ambiance throughout the cabin. A conversation mirror, integrated into the sunglass case in the overhead console, allows comfortable visual contact with rear seat passengers. The third-row passengers can see forward more easily. Numerous storage bins, cupholders and cargo spaces are placed in convenient locations.
Both seven- and eight-seat cabins can be configured for a full contingent of passengers, a load of cargo, or a mix of both. In seven-seat cabins, the second row captain chairs can slide 23 inches, moving to the rear to create legroom for the tallest passengers and easier ingress and egress; or they can be moved forward close to the front seats to make it easy to reach a child passenger, while also allowing easy access for third-row passengers.
A sliding center console on the XLE all-wheel-drive and Limited grades can be shared between the front seats and second row passengers. The illuminated console slides into the second row area to provide convenient access for both rows.
For even more passenger comfort, there is standard second-row Lounge Seating on the Limited grade, which includes leg and foot support. Second-row captain chairs on all grades have dual armrests, and a one-motion release mechanism facilitates seat removal.
On eight-passenger models, the second row seats offer added versatility and convenience. The second-row center seat can be removed and stowed in the left side of the rear-storage area.
When the center seat is stowed, a cupholder and storage tray is revealed. The eight-passenger interior can easily be converted for seven passengers.
The second-row seats also feature a Tip Up and Long Slide feature, allowing them to slide forward and back on extended rails, making more room for passengers or cargo. All second-row seats, regardless of configuration, move out of the way with one touch to gain easy access to the third-row seats.
The 60/40 Split and Stow third-row seat folds flat with one motion, with the Limited front-wheel drive model receiving a power feature. With the third-row seat in use, there is enough storage for five golf bags or four large suitcases. Four handy grocery hooks, with two in the back and two in the second-row seatbacks, add storage convenience. With the third-row seat stowed and the second-row seat removed, the cargo area is approximately eight feet long and four feet wide, providing up to 150 cubic feet of available space.
A wide rear door and wide side doors, a low floor height and one-touch second-row seats make it easy and convenient to load the Sienna. Sliding the second-row seats all the way to the rear creates a walk-in aisle, making it easier to enter, exit, install a child seat, or place a child in a seat.
Innovative Technologies
The available rear-seat Dual View Entertainment Center uses two displays side-by-side to create a seamless 16.4-inch widescreen image from a single source. The system can split the screen into two individual screens, each with input from separate sources. Used as a single screen, it can be easily seen from the third row, and it can be operated from any seat via remote control.
Used as two screens, the system can accommodate the preferences of two separate passengers who might want to play a video game or watch a second DVD simultaneously via auxiliary inputs. Other upgrades include the Panorama Camera rear monitor with a 180-degree view and on-screen back-up guides to help drivers to back into parking spots or driveways.
Safety
The standard Blind Spot Monitor on XLE and Limited grades uses sub-millimeter wave radar designed to detect vehicles in the driver’s blind spots. When the system detects a vehicle in the adjacent lane, it alerts the driver using indicators on the side mirrors. If the turn signal is on when the there is a vehicle in the blind spot of the driver’s intended lane, the indicator on the corresponding mirror will flash. New for 2013, the system incorporates a cross traffic alert, which can be especially helpful when backing out of a driveway or parking slot.
The standard Toyota Star Safety System™ equips the 2013 Toyota Sienna with Anti-lock Brakes (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA), enhanced Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Traction Control (TRAC), and Smart Stop Technology (SST). Enhanced VSC coordinates the Anti-lock Brake System (ABS), Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist with Traction Control (TRAC) and Electric Power Steering (EPS).
A Pre-Collision System (PCS) with pre-collision seatbelt system is an available option on the Limited grade, as is the latest in advanced vehicle control technology, Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM). The VDIM system coordinates brake control with engine output and steering inputs, allowing all the control and safety systems to cooperate seamlessly. Unlike reactive traction systems, VDIM operates proactively. During normal driving, the system works smoothly to enhance control even before the vehicle reaches its limits.
Seven airbags are standard equipment, including dual-stage front and seat-mounted side airbags for the driver and front passenger, plus a segment-first driver’s side knee airbag. Side curtain airbags cover the length of the cabin, from the front seats to the third row. Active headrests are used in both front seats to help reduce the possibility of whiplash in a collision.
The Safety Connect™ telematics system comes with a one year complimentary trial subscription on Sienna Limited and is optional on XLE. Safety Connect offers four safety and security features: Automatic Collision Notification, Stolen Vehicle Location, Emergency Assistance Button (SOS), and Roadside Assistance.
Automatic Collision Notification is designed to automatically call a response center in case of airbag deployment or a severe rear-end collision. If a response agent cannot communicate with the occupants, the agent can contact the nearest emergency-services provider to dispatch assistance. Pushing the in-vehicle “SOS” button allows drivers to reach the response center to request emergency help as well. If a Sienna equipped with Safety Connect is stolen, agents can work with local authorities to help locate and recover the vehicle once a stolen vehicle report is filed.
Limited Warranty
Toyota’s 36-month/36,000 mile basic new-vehicle warranty applies to all components other than normal wear and maintenance items. Additional 60-month warranties cover powertrain for 60,000 miles and corrosion with no mileage limitation.
*Courtesy of Toyota USA Newsroom
Monday, September 17, 2012
Been putting off buying new parts? Well now is the time to replace those old and/or broken parts! North Hills Toyota is offering deals on wiper blades, batteries, filters and more!
Thursday, September 13, 2012
Wednesday, September 12, 2012
Toyota Tundra to Tow Space Shuttle Endeavour on Last Leg of Journey to the California Science Center
Tested extensively prior to the announcement, the 2012 Tundra is slated to safely tow the 300,000 pound historic artifact down Bill Robertson Lane in Exposition Park, near downtown Los Angeles, on the final leg of its journey. Endeavour will be towed using a stock 2012 Tundra CrewMax 1/2–ton pickup, identical to models currently found in Toyota dealerships, with no additional modifications made to increase towing capacity or generate more power. The Tundra CrewMax is equipped with Toyota’s powerful 5.7L V8 engine, producing a maximum tow capacity of 10,000 pounds. TMS has done extensive testing and worked with The Sarens Group, a heavy lifting and engineered transport company, to develop a dolly specifically for hauling the Endeavour.
“There is no larger or more recognizable icon of the U.S. space program’s success than the shuttle, and to have it towed by the Toyota Tundra is not only an incredible example of the capabilities of the truck, but an honor to be part of history,” said Ed Laukes, TMS vice president of marketing communications. “The entire journey is something the world will be watching, and gives us a chance to prove that the ‘overbuilt’ Tundra is built to do any job – even tow the space shuttle.”
Participation in the transportation of the shuttle is part of an ongoing partnership between TMS and the Science Center in an effort to provide support and awareness of the space program and continuing education of the public through exhibits and programs. Toyota currently has a Tundra truck on display in a Science Center exhibit demonstrating the physics of leverage. The tow Tundra will replace the existing Tundra and will be on display after the Endeavour exhibit opens on October 30, 2012.
At the end of the Endeavour’s 12 mile journey from LAX to the Science Center, a “finish-line” celebration at Exposition Park is planned for the evening of October 13, as the shuttle arrives at the Science Center, allowing the public to witness the finale of this historic voyage.
The tow program was developed in partnership with Saatchi & Saatchi LA (SSLA), the agency of record for TMS, and the Science Center, and serves as a unique way to demonstrate Tundra’s capabilities and towing capacity. In collaboration with SSLA and Science Center, TMS has developed a host of online resources and activities that provide behind-the-scenes videos, photos, activities for children and information about the Tundra Endeavour project and can be found at www.toyota.com/TundraEndeavour beginning September 17th. Visitors can share content, sign up for email alerts and participate in re-Tweeting information that will help contribute money to the California Science Center for further development of exhibits and displays.
*Courtesy of Toyota USA Newsroom
Tuesday, September 11, 2012
Monday, September 10, 2012
Toyota Maintains Industry-Leading Fuel Economy by Putting Cars on a Diet and 2013 Avalon Will Be Lightest in Segment
Avalon Chief Engineer Randy Stephens and his development team at Toyota Technical Center (TTC) in Ann Arbor, Mich., worked toward a goal of making Avalon lighter, yet more rigid, to help improve overall driving performance. As a result, the new 2013 Avalon is 110 lbs. lighter than the 2012 model, tipping the scales at 3,461 lbs. compared to 3,571 for the 2012 model. When it arrives at dealerships later this year, the 2013 Avalon and will be the lightest-weight vehicle in the premium mid-size segment.
“Our target was to dramatically improve all aspects of dynamic performance,” Stephens explained, “Especially in the areas of fuel efficiency, handling and performance.”
Engineering for weight reduction requires examination of all elements of vehicle design and componentry to achieve weight targets and requires collaboration from vehicle design teams to isolate and address a variety of potential weight-loss areas during development. Following this process, the team was able to achieve significant mass reduction in several key areas like body structure, seat structure and wheel design.
It proved to be a challenge, however, due to the weight penalty imposed by equipment necessitated by increased regulations, improved performance targets and added customer features. With each design engineering group’s agreement, mass targets were set and carefully managed to control the overall vehicle target.
Dave Katarzynski, Program Manager of Avalon Vehicle Development offered this insight, “We established two main mass targets early in development: lowest mass among competitors (mass vs. vehicle size) and reduction of one inertia weight class rank. As part of each design engineering group's agreement, mass targets were set for each group. The groups then managed their part by part mass to keep their target and help control the overall goal. Hundreds of mass reduction ideas were tracked throughout development and periodic reviews checked status.”
The importance of mass reduction as a means of improving fuel economy, vehicle dynamics and enhancing the driving experience of the new Avalon was a major consideration, and that is where Stephen Provost, Manager, Ride and Handling, came in.
“Less mass makes Avalon more responsive and engaging near handling limits,” he explained. “Also, with less mass, less tire width is needed to reach competitive grip levels. The smaller width helps minimize drag losses to help enhance fuel economy, too.”
With the Toyota’s engineering mantra of weight reduction in place, lower vehicle weights are achieved utilizing revised lighter weight materials for vehicle construction.
Rob McConnell, Principal Engineer, Body Shell and Exterior Plastics, said, “Through the installation of a higher class of high performance polypropylene resin (more fluid), we were able to decrease the general thickness of the front and rear bumpers, resulting in a decrease in mass, aiding in achieving improved fuel economy. Also, by adopting a higher content of high-strength steel in the pillars and rocker panels, we were able to conserve mass while maintaining crash performance targets.”
Generous weight reduction of 263 lbs. is also evident in the midsize Camry Hybrid from previous generation to current model (3,680 lbs. for 2011 Camry Hybrid vs. 3,417 lbs. for 2012 model), and despite increased length and width, the new 2013 Avalon Hybrid still enjoys a weight advantage over the smaller, previous generation 2011 Camry Hybrid. Though the 2011 Camry Hybrid and the 2013 Avalon Hybrid both include the Hybrid Synergy Drive hardware (electric motors, battery, power control unit, etc.), the new 2013 Avalon model still weighs 87 lbs. less than the smaller 2011 Camry Hybrid (3,593 lbs. for 2013 Avalon compared to 3,680 lbs. for 2011 Camry). The 2013 Avalon offers a combined 40 mpg EPA-rating while the 2011 Camry Hybrid was EPA-rated at 33 mpg combined. This is as much a testament to engineering weight reduction into the vehicle structure as it is to powertrain developments that reduce component mass and overall friction in the name of efficiency.
Tin Bui, a Toyota engineer in charge of Avalon fuel economy and road load development said, “To improve the vehicle's fuel economy we focused on reducing the vehicle's resistance which lowers the engine's effort and fuel consumption. One resistance area we worked on is reducing the vehicle's weight. With reduced vehicle weight, there is less resistance to accelerate the vehicle. Lower vehicle weight also reduces the vehicle's tire rolling resistance allowing it to roll more freely.”
One reason Toyota enjoys success with consumers is because of the brand’s focus on producing highly fuel efficient vehicles. In fact, in the U.S. market, Toyota is the most fuel efficient full-line manufacturer offering a vehicle lineup that includes the Prius family (Prius, Prius Plug-in, Prius v, and Prius c) boasting an average combined fuel economy rating of 48 mpg. In addition, the popular Camry sedan offers a 33 mpg average combined fuel economy rating across its models. By the end of 2012, the premium mid-size Avalon Hybrid sedan, that employs many weight-savings engineering tactics, will arrive to market with a combined 40 mpg rating, and offer consumers another highly efficient option.
*Courtesy of Toyota USA Newsroom
Thursday, September 6, 2012
Tuesday, September 4, 2012
Toyota Motor Sales Reports 40 Percent Increase in August Sales
The Toyota Division posted total August sales of 164,283 units, an increase of 42.0 percent on a DSR basis from August 2011. On a raw volume basis, Toyota Division sales were up 47.5 percent from the year-ago month. “The auto industry continued to outperform the general economy in August,” said Bill Fay, Toyota group vice president and general manager. “The driving force behind our growth continues to be strong consumer response to the new models we’ve launched over the past twelve months and the added value those vehicles represent.” The Lexus Division reported total sales of 24,237 units in August 2012, up 28.9 percent from August 2011 on a DSR basis. Volume-wise, Lexus Division sales were up 33.9 percent compared to the same period last year. “Virtually every Lexus model enjoyed a significant sales increase in August,” said Tim Morrison, Lexus vice president of sales and dealer development. “With a strong Labor Day weekend, and our newly launched products leading the way, the momentum continues into September.” Toyota Division Toyota Division light trucks recorded August sales of 71,200 units, an increase of 47.9 percent compared to the same month last year. Light truck sales were again led by the RAV4 compact SUV and Tacoma mid-size pickup truck, with monthly sales of 15,685 and 12,193, respectively. Highlander and Highlander Hybrid reported combined sales of 11,441 units, and the Tundra full-size pickup reported sales of 11,347 units. Scion posted August sales of 7,722 units, up 111.6 percent on a volume basis over August 2011. The tC sports coupe led the way with sales of 2,378 units, up 113.5 percent, while the newly launched FR-S sports car reported sales of 1,913 units. The xD five-door urban subcompact posted sales of 1,004 units, and the xB urban utility vehicle posted August sales of 1,879 units. The all-new iQ premium micro-subcompact posted monthly sales of 548 units. Lexus luxury utility vehicles recorded sales of 10,213 units, up 31.4 percent over August 2011. Lexus light truck sales were led by the RX and RX Hybrid luxury utility vehicle, which posted combined August sales of 8,628 units. The GX 460 mid-size luxury utility vehicle reported sales of 1,071 units, while the LX luxury utility vehicle recorded sales of 514 units. *Courtesy of Toyota Newsroom USA
Toyota Division passenger cars recorded combined monthly sales of 93,083 units, up 47.2 percent from August 2011. Passenger car sales were led by Camry and Camry Hybrid with combined sales of 36,720 units, and Corolla reported August sales of 24,311 units. The Prius family of vehicles posted August sales of 21,111 units.
Lexus Division
Lexus reported passenger car sales of 14,024 units, up 35.7 percent from August 2011. The ES 350 entry luxury sedan and the first-ever ES Hybrid led Lexus passenger car sales with combined sales of 7,557 units, while the IS luxury sports sedan reported sales of 2,369 units. The CT 200h premium hybrid compact posted sales of 1,472 units.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)