Richmond Toyota Blog

Toyota Slowly Stepping Forward

2010-03-04T17:00:00Z

A few months ago, millions of drivers considered Toyota the gold standard for automobiles, with quality and reliability you could practically take for granted. Then came mysterious gas-pedal problems, claims of deadly "sudden acceleration" incidents, and the global recall of more than 8 million vehicles. Toyota's sales may have plunged, but the automaker still has droves of both loyal customers, and new customers who have not lost faith in the vehicles they have come to love.

Toyota will recover; sooner or later the company will regain control and get back on the pavement. It may even end up a better company than before. Meanwhile, Toyota automobiles could be a smart buy, with dealers forced to offer discounts and other incentives to move merchandise sullied by the scandal. While the recent safety problems are serious, media hype has created the impression that every Toyota is dangerous and that simply is not true. It is certainly concerning that deaths have been linked to issues with the cars, and discouraging that complaints over sticking accelerators have been logged for over a few years. Overall, however, Toyota has drawn far fewer complaints than most competitors, which is consistent with its once sterling reputation. Of 18 Toyota vehicles, seven rank in the top three in their category in the U.S. News Best Car and Truck rankings, including the Avalon sedan, Sienna minivan, Sequoia SUV, and Venza crossover. Consumer Reports named the Toyota Prius one of its 10 "Best Picks" for 2010, despite a recall involving brakes. To win back customers and alleviate safety concerns, Toyota is taking steps to gain back its customers. They will pick up and return some recalled cars, so worried owners don't have to drive to the dealership. Toyota is also offering rental cars or rides to work to some owners getting their cars fixed. And CEO Toyoda has said that the company must start paying more attention to customers.

Top Carpool Features

2010-02-25T16:33:00Z

Whether you are thinking of starting a family in the near future, have toddlers creeping towards school age years, or have already reached into the world of carpooling, having the right vehicle simply makes life easier. It is important to note that good carpooling vehicles are not limited to minivans, although the modern minivan goes to great lengths to make your life convenient. Parents have a lot to consider when they shop for a vehicle. The first rule of thumb for choosing any car is always the same: Separate what you want from what you truly need. So many consumers are wooed into buying something they don’t need. Below are some important criteria for choosing the best vehicle for carpooling with kids.

The Need for Extra Space: The fact is kids require a lot of gear, whether it’s the diaper bag, the strollers, or the hockey bag or bike. If you have multiple children in car seats it is important to remember this will take up extra space as well. Look for plentiful cargo space, second-row legroom and sliding second-row seats. Minivans, such as the top-rated Toyota Sienna, are still the most practical choice here, but there are plenty of other options, particularly crossover vehicles.

Safety Features are Key: For some reason carrying your kids, or others kids in you car motivated the need for the best safety. While large SUV have a higher likelihood of rollover and smaller cars are no match for larger on, minivans and crossovers are a good middle ground. They are not as likely to roll over, but because they are larger and higher up off the ground provide more protection than small cars. Look for cars with comprehensive safety features and excellent crash test scores — particularly in side-impact crashes, the kind most likely to injure backseat passengers. Also look for rearview cameras, excellent visibility front and rear, and good stopping distances. Note that all vehicles sold in the U.S. will be required to have electronic stability control — a critical safety feature — as standard equipment by 2012.

Convenience a Top Priority: The bottom line with family cars is this: what vehicle will make getting in and out, strapping car seats and seatbelt, storing and organizing, and loading and unloading the easiest. Carmakers within the last decade have come up with brilliant ideas to make busy family life easier. Look for easy entry and exit captain's chairs that allow you to access the third row. Anything that helps you avoid juggling keys while getting the herd home — power rear hatches, push-button and/or remote start — can be a huge help. Minivans' with powered sliding door options make them one of the best choices for their segment, as they make just about everything easier with younger children.

Keep it Clean: Kids can be messy, you go through mud season, beach season, and in some places slush and snow season. All of this tracks dirt into the car no matter what you do. Cheerios, food wrappers and crayons end up between the seats and ground into the floor mats. Not only is it annoying to live with, it may even lower the resale value. To keep your carpooling ride intact, look for darker, stain-resistant fabrics, or leather, which is easier to clean. Often optional, washable cargo areas and rubber floor mats can save your car's carpets.

Toyota's Stand at the 2010 Geneva Motor Show

2010-02-18T15:10:00Z

Toyota will unveil to the public the production-ready Toyota Auris HSD hybrid at the 2010 Geneva Motor Show in March. In addition, they will show the face-lifted RAV4. The company's show stand will also feature the European premiere of the Toyota FT-86 sports car.

The Auris HSD (for Hybrid Synergy Drive) goes into production in late spring at Toyota's U.K. plant in Burnaston and will be sold across Europe. Toyota reiterated that it plans to offer hybrid versions of its entire model range by the early 2020s. It is unclear whether the Auris HSD will make it to the states any time soon. The freshened RAV4 gets a new front-end design and an upgraded interior. Toyota said a companion model for North America, built in Canada, will arrive later this year for model year 2011.

2011 Toyota Avalon - A Redesign for the Sedan

2010-02-11T15:37:00Z

Toyota has announced that the Toyota Avalon will be redesigned for the 2011 model year. The elegant and comfortable Avalon features a distinctive new exterior style, along with a restyled interior with new technology and improved materials. Introduced at the 2010 Chicago Auto Show, the Avalon has dynamic and expressive lines, and an infusion of comfort, safety and technology advancements that enrich the driving experience.

Upgraded equipment and technology features, such as a touch-screen navigation system with real-time traffic, and Bluetooth hands free phone capability with music streaming to the audio system are among the improvements that enhance the 2011 Avalon’s excellent blend of spaciousness, comfort and technology. Toyota needed some good news, and the introduction of the new Avalon is nothing but that. For 2011, the restyled Avalon to project an elegant, outgoing presence. A wider, more substantial grille ties into state-of-the-art projector headlamps, working with a broad, undisturbed front hood to suggest a lowered center of gravity and emphasize the Avalon’s wide stance. The redesigned 2011 Avalon will begin arriving at Toyota dealerships nationally in spring
2010.

Toyota Statement on Recall

2010-02-05T03:50:00Z

The Following is a statement from Toyota in response to comments by Transportation Secretary LaHood on Feb. 3, 2010.

We appreciate Secretary LaHood’s clarification of his remarks today about Toyota’s recall for sticking accelerator pedals. We want to make sure our customers understand that this situation is rare and generally does not occur suddenly. In the rare instances where it does occur, the vehicle can be controlled with firm and steady application of the brakes.

Our message to Toyota owners is this – if you experience any issues with your accelerator pedal, please contact your dealer without delay. If you are not experiencing any issues with your pedal, we are confident that your vehicle is safe to drive.

Nothing is more important to Toyota than the safety and reliability of the vehicles our customers drive. Our entire organization of 172,000 North American employees and dealership personnel is working around the clock to fix the accelerator pedals for our customers.

Toyota Motor Sales USA, Inc.

Corporate Communications Contacts:
310 468 5297
310 468 7359

Toyota Recall Announced

2010-01-26T19:20:00Z

Toyota Motor Sales has announced it would recall approximately 2.3 million vehicles to correct sticking accelerator pedals on specific Toyota Division models. This action is separate from the on-going recall of approximately 4.2 million Toyota and Lexus vehicles to reduce the risk of pedal entrapment by incorrect or out of place accessory floor mats. Approximately 1.7 million Toyota Division vehicles are subject to both separate recall actions.

“In recent months, Toyota has investigated isolated reports of sticking accelerator pedal mechanisms in certain vehicles without the presence of floor mats,” said TMS Group Vice President Irv Miller. “Our investigation indicates that there is a possibility that certain accelerator pedal mechanisms may, in rare instances, mechanically stick in a partially depressed position or return slowly to the idle position. Consistent with our commitment to the safety of our cars and our customers, we have initiated this voluntary recall action.”

Toyota’s accelerator pedal recall is confined to the following Toyota Division
vehicles:
•   2009-2010 RAV4,
•   2009-2010 Corolla,
•   2009-2010 Matrix,
•   2005-2010 Avalon,
•   2007-2010 Camry,
•   2010 Highlander,
•   2007-2010 Tundra,
•   2008-2010 Sequoia

The condition is rare, but can occur when the pedal mechanism becomes worn and, in certain conditions, the accelerator pedal may become harder to depress, slower to return or, in the worst case, stuck in a partially depressed position. Toyota is working quickly to prepare the correction remedy. In the event that a driver experiences an accelerator pedal that sticks in a partial open throttle position or returns slowly to idle position, the vehicle can be controlled with firm and steady application of the brakes. The brakes should not be pumped repeatedly because it could deplete vacuum assist, requiring stronger brake pedal pressure. The vehicle should be driven to the nearest safe location, the engine shut off and a Toyota dealer contacted for assistance. Toyota owners who have questions or concerns should contact the Toyota Customer Experience Center at 1-800-331-4331.

2011 Sienna to Feature Available Auto Access Seat

2010-01-19T19:11:00Z

Toyota displayed an innovative Auto Access Seat, designed for use in the all-new 2011 Toyota Sienna minivan, for the first time at the 2010 North American International Auto Show in Detroit. Toyota is the first automaker in North America to offer a factory-installed, rotating, power ascending/descending lift-up seat. Designed internally, the Auto Access Seat will offer a new level of comfort and convenience to anyone who may need assistance getting in or out of a vehicle.

Factory installed at the Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Indiana (TMMI) assembly plant, the Auto Access Seat offers consumers a seamless purchase-process alternative to the current aftermarket installation method, which requires the consumer to purchase their vehicle and then have it modified by an aftermarket supplier. The Sienna minivan equipped with the Auto Access Seat will offer a much needed transportation solution for the caregivers of an elderly parent or spouse with a walking disability, a disabled veteran, or for the parents of child with a disability.

The Auto Access Seat features a one-touch operation and benefits from the all-new Sienna’s spacious interior and wide-opening sliding doors. A seat-mounted ingress/egress switch and a wireless remote control allows for easy and flexible seat operation. The seat rotates 90 degrees and can be lowered to within 19 inches of the ground to further facilitate easier passenger transfers at the exact height required.

Unveiled: The Toyota FT-CH Dedicated Hybrid Concept

2010-01-12T16:26:00Z

Toyota has unveiled the FT-CH dedicated hybrid concept at the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit. The FT-CH is a concept that meets Toyota’s strategy to offer a wider variety of full hybrid choices to its customers, in addition to the introduction of plug-in hybrids (PHVs) and battery electrics (EVs) in model year 2012, and hydrogen fuel cell vehicles (FCHVs) in 2015 in global markets. The CH stands for compact hybrid as in compact class and it’s a concept that can best be defined by comparing it with the mid-size class Prius. The FT-CH captures the spirit and functionality of a car that thrives in the inner-city environment; sized right to be nimble, responsive and maneuverable. Compared to the Prius, it is 22 inches shorter in overall length, yet loses less than an inch in overall width. In spite of its compact external dimensions, FT-CH was designed for maximum passenger comfort and interior roominess, with an imaginative sense of style. Lighter in weight and even more fuel efficient than Prius, the concept specifically targets a lower price point than Prius, thus appealing to a younger, less-affluent buyer demographic. In the early 2010s, Toyota plans to sell a million hybrids per year globally, a majority of those in North America. To accomplish this, Toyota will launch eight all new hybrid models in the USA over the next few years. These will not include next generation versions of current hybrids; instead, they will be all new dedicated hybrid vehicles, or all new hybrid versions of existing petrol engine models. Toyota also plans to introduce plug-in hybrids (PHVs) and battery electrics (EVs) to global markets in 2012, and hydrogen fuel cell vehicles (FCHVs) in 2015.

Toyota Truck Racing: High hopes for 2010

2010-01-01T16:22:00Z

In 2008, the No. 51 Billy Ballew Motorsports Toyota Tundra team – anchored by superstar driver Kyle Busch – finished third in the owner standings. This year, again with Busch as the central figure, the No. 51 team came home second in owner points. But Busch announced last week that he is running his own Truck Series program in 2010. Nevertheless, Ballew is confident in Aric Almirola, who didn’t join the team this year until June and will be a full-time driver for the team in 2010 if everything goes according to plan. And if everything falls into place, Ballew believes it’s realistic to be thinking championship.

The stats were pretty impressive for the whole team in 2009. Busch led the Truck Series in wins, with seven from his 15 starts in the No. 51 Tundra, up from three wins in 11 starts with the team in ’08. He had 11 top fives this year, up from four in ’08. But Busch was only part of the story in the No. 51 this year, as a total of five different drivers combined to score 3,886 points, coming up just 73 points short of the owner’s title. It was a strong season for Ballew’s No. 15 team as well.

If there was one race that was the highlight for Billy Ballew Motorsports, it had to be that Talladega race, where Busch took the victory and Almirola came home second to give Ballew his first 1-2 finish as an owner. In the end 2009 was the best year ever for Billy Ballew Motorsports. It will definitely be different in 2010, when Ballew finds his team’s Tundras racing against those from Kyle Busch Motorsports. A protégé of Busch’s, Ickler will follow his mentor to the new program as well. But Ballew only wishes Busch well for deciding to operate his own program. Whoever comes out on top it will be an exciting year for Toyota Truck Series performances.

Estimates for 2010: A 17% Increase in Production

2009-12-27T04:09:00Z

Toyota Motor Corp. expects a 17 percent increase in its 2010 global production, excluding units Daihatsu and Hino Motors, from this year to about 7.5 million units. The move comes as recovery signs of the economy emerge. In comparison to other years, the numbers are at a level similar to Toyota's output in 2005 and represents a decline of one million units from 2007. A Toyota spokesman said the company had informed its suppliers of its plans for production for next year, but the figure was still a rough estimate. He added that Toyota would announce a finalized forecast as soon as it was compiled, most likely in January.

Toyota Announces Pricing for 2011 Sienna

2009-12-23T00:09:00Z

Toyota has released pricing details for the 2011 Toyota Sienna minivan and as expected it will indeed start lower than the 2009 model. Whereas the cheapest version of the current model rang in at $24,600, the newly available four cylinder allows Toyota to offer the significantly upgraded '11 model at a starting price of just $24,260 plus delivery. For consumers, any money saved is good news.

The Toyota Sienna offers great road manners, clever use of space, smart safety and infotainment features. The SE trim steps up to this stiffened, carbon-fiber trimmed with the asking price up to $30,550, while the range-topping Limited with AWD starts at $39,770.

When Siennas start reaching dealerships next February, V6 models will only be available initially, with the four-cylinder base Sienna and LE joining the lineup in April, along with the SE. It looks like the V6 will add between $1,250 and $3,555 to the price of the base Sienna and LE, the only models available with the Venza's four-banger. In fact, the four-cylinder LE undercuts the V6 base Sienna by a few bucks.

If you are ready to trade in your used car lexington, the new Sienna may be just the right vehicle for you. For any families, or drivers who need plenty of passenger space and convenience features, the Sienna minivan stays towards the top of the competition. All wheel drive is available on LE, XLE and Limited models with a premium of $2,230, $2,340, and $1,270 respectively, over the front-wheel drive versions.

Toyota Announces Safety Recall on 2000 through 2003 Tundra Frame Rear Cross-Member

2009-12-21T04:38:00Z

Certain 2000 through 2003 model year Tundra vehicles operated in cold climate areas with high road salt use, may exhibit excessive corrosion on the frame rear cross-member. In the worst case, the spare tire stowed under the truck bed may become separated from the rear cross-member. Spare tire separation will create a road hazard for following vehicles and increase the likelihood of a crash.

Eventually, excessive corrosion of the rear cross-member may also affect the functionality of the rear brake line at the proportioning valve. If this occurs, it can lead to the loss of the rear brake circuits which will increase vehicle stopping distances and the risk of a crash. Beginning in December 2009 through early 2010, owners of the involved vehicles will receive a Safety Recall notification via first class mail asking them to take their vehicles to a Toyota dealer for an initial inspection of the rear cross-member. During this inspection, the rear cross-member including the surrounding components such as, the brake line at the proportioning valve (which is mounted on the cross-member assembly) will also be inspected. Based upon the inspection, Toyota will do one of the following at no charge:

*If there is no significant corrosion of the rear cross-member assembly or the rear brake line at the proportioning valve, owners will be notified of that fact and requested to subsequently bring their vehicle back to the dealership so that a corrosion-resistant compound can be applied to the rear cross-member. Toyota will notify the owner when the corrosion-resistant compound is available.

or

*If significant corrosion is detected such that the rear cross-member can no longer safely support the spare tire and replacement components are available, the cross-member assembly will be replaced. In the event replacement components are not available, a temporary solution, such as the removal of the spare tire and securing it to the truck bed, will be performed until parts are available. Read a complete report from Toyota for more details.

Scion Introduces Limited Producion Model

2009-12-07T17:16:00Z

Scion displayed its latest limited-production vehicle, the 2010 xB Release Series 7.0 (xB RS 7.0) in the Scion booth at the Los Angeles Auto Show, Dec. 2-13, 2009. The xB RS 7.0 will begin arriving in dealerships this month.

The xB RS 7.0 comes fitted with a four-piece DAMD body kit including front and rear lower lips along with side skirts. The xB comes exclusively painted in a distinctive color appropriately named Murasaki, which means "purple" in Japanese.

One of the most distinctive features of the xB RS 7.0 is the TRD sport muffler that exits out the center of DAMD rear lip. The exhaust system features twin double-walled tips and is specifically designed in conjunction with the DAMD rear lip to give the xB a sporty appearance and a sound that can only be found on this particular Release Series. To complete the stylish exterior, the xB RS 7.0 is equipped with TRD lowering springs that bring the ride height down over an inch and offer sporty handling. A color-keyed rear spoiler will be available as an option.

The interior of the xB RS 7.0 features exclusive black fabric seats with color-tuned highlights that complement the car's exterior. The sides of the driver and front passenger lower seat cushions are embroidered with the "RS" logo. The driver is also treated to a leather-wrapped RAZO GT Formula Spec shift knob that delivers a sporty feel.

Only 2,000 units of the xB RS 7.0 will be built, and each vehicle comes with a unique, individually numbered stainless-steel badge. The xB RS 7.0 model will carry a manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) of $18,320 with a manual transmission, and $19,270 with an automatic transmission. A limited supply of the available color-matched rear spoiler will be available to xB RS 7.0 owners and carries a MSRP of $320, not including installation.

Happy Thanksgiving - Drive Safe

2009-11-26T17:00:00Z

Happy Thanksgiving!

We all know this is one of the busiest times of year for car travel. And with the economy, more and more Thanksgiving travelers are opting for getting to their destination by road.

The majority of Thanksgiving travelers leave for their destinations on Wednesday or Thursday. From Wednesday morning on, the roads will get increasingly crowded, until later on in the day Thursday, when families are likely to be sharing their Thanksgiving meal together. If you want to avoid the crowds, take Wednesday off and leave on Tuesday evening or Tuesday afternoon. The return trip is just as busy for road travel. Many people who visit their families on Thanksgiving either leave for home on Thursday night, or stay for the weekend and return on Saturday or Sunday. If you want to avoid traffic on your return trip, the best time to leave is Friday. While many make their journey home on Friday, some wait until Saturday or Sunday.

When you plan your departure time for the Thanksgiving holiday, think about the major cities that you'll be traveling through. Try to time your route so that you're not driving through a major city during rush hour. Many cities have alternate freeway routes that skirt around the city, and often are less crowded. These can still have plenty of traffic on them during rush hour, so try to time your driving time for the middle of the day or late in the evening. So, just remember, be prepared for traffic backups and drivers that may have a rather short temper. If you are patient than in all likelyhood, others will be too.

Be Prepared for Winter

2009-11-23T03:54:00Z

As winter is approaching, it is critical to get your vehicle ready for those cold and sometimes slippery conditions before that first storm hits. It is important for both car maintenance and safety. Here are some important tips to follow in this process

Winter Tires: If you live in an area that gets snow and ice, winter tires are key for safe driving. While winter tires are superior, at least make sure your vehicle has all weather tires. Winter tires are designed specifically to stand up to below freezing temperatures, and their tread can handle snow. Another important step is to monitor the tire pressure on a regular basis as temperature drops can affect tire pressure.

Basic Equipment: You will need a snowbrush and an ice scrapper. Other tools suited for unpredictable winter conditions include a collapsible shovel, a well-stocked emergency kit and a set of jumper cables. It is also a good idea to always keep a blanket and a flashlight in your car. A set of tire chains can be handy if you will be traveling through the mountains in snowy weather.

Windshield Clarity: If you are stuck in a snowstorm, even a rainstorm, especially in the darkenss, it is imperative to have good wipers and plenty of windshield fluid. Ensure that your wipers have a clean wipe across the windshield.

Fluids Checks: Beofre it gets to cold out, make sure your vehicle’s fluids are at the right level. This includes oil. Brake fluid, and coolant.

Battery and Electrical Systems: Cold weather is a vehicle's electrical system enemy -- especially the vehicles battery. Combine this with the increased power demands of defrosters, windshield wipers and heating systems, and a car battery really has to be ready to meet the brutal winter challenge. A well-insulated cabin offers much needed shelter from frigid winter winds, so ensuring your heating system is functioning properly should be a top priority. Run your heating system to ensure its operation before the actual time of need. Also check the window defroster system by testing the defroster strips in the windshield and rear windshield using a voltmeter.

Four Wheel Drive: Another way to ensure driving safety in adverse weather conditions, is to choose a model with 4WD, the Toyota FJ Cruiser, chief rival to the Jeep Columbia Wrangler, is an excellent option and has the choice of either 2WD or 4WD. The FJ earned Good results in the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety's frontal-offset and side-impact crash tests.

2010 Prius: No Longer Just About Fuel Efficiency

2009-11-12T17:32:00Z

It is not likely that anyone has disputed the Prius' excellent fuel efficiency, as far as getting people from one place to the other with minimal environmental impact, the Prius has always done it pretty well. But with increasing competition from a number of automakers rolling out hybrids, Toyota knew they had to make the Prius more than just about gas mileage. So the 2010 model does that. Its cabin is better, its design is better, and its performance is better. Under the hood, the Prius now includes the latest iteration of HybridSynergy Drive, which operates more efficiently than ever. The basic architecture has not changed and includes an electronically variable transmission that acts as the power split device and a pair of electricmotor/generators to provide drive torque and kinetic energy recovery.

The internal combustion engine remains a four-cylinder running on the Atkinson cycle to optimize its thermodynamic efficiency. However, the displacement has grown from the previous 1.5 liters to 1.8 liters,which has dual benefits. When the driver actually needs extra power in order to merge onto a freeway or complete a passing maneuver, the propulsive force is now readily available.For the first time, U.S. Prius buyers now have an EV button available that sometimes allows the driver to force the car into electric drive mode.

To the right of the EV button is the ECO button. Like the similarly labeled switch in the new Insight, this one moderates the driver's commands before sending them to the various powertrain elements. The ECO mode essentially applies a slow filter to everything, smoothing responses to avoid the sort of sudden transient reactions that cause increased fuel consumption.For those times when you need just a bit more get up and go such as merging onto a crowded freeway, to the right of the ECO switch sits the Power button. This one does the opposite of the ECO switch and speeds up throttle responses.

As for the suspension, it actually has some roll control now, and the whole car feels tighter than ever. The interior of the Prius now has a much more modern appearance than before with the high center console sweeping down from the dash between the front seats. The new Prius is headed in the right direction as far as appealing to the mass of consumers who want a regular, modern car, with the bonus of super efficiency.

A New Fad in the Autoworld: Subcompacts

2009-10-31T19:59:00Z

The sub compact car was a popular vehicle of the past. Yet, in the last decade their popularity has faded out, being first replaced by the wave of SUVs, and then the fairly new crossover segment, more convenient than ever family cars, and full sized sedans that offer more value. However as current gas prices inch forward and with future prices looking uncertain more people are buying small, fuel-efficient cars. There has been a lot of activity in the segment recently. Toyota has introduced the Yaris, along with its competitors, the Hyundai Accent, Kia Rio, and Fit. And as we speak, more and more automakers are committing their time and efforts in the small car segment.

Having a car in the sub-compact market makes sense for a variety of reasons. It targets young, first time buyers, and gets them introduced to the brand. If their experience is good they'll stick with the brand as they grow up and move to a larger vehicle. Toyota, actually got their start in the sub-compact car market. Small cars also provide a safety net during economic downturns. If gas prices rise unexpectedly, those with small fuel efficient cars can breathe a little easier.

Another reason the small car is coming back is that the subcompact cars of 2010 are not the econo cars of the past. In fact, they offer respectable performance. The Toyota Yaris has 106 horsepower which may not sound like much, but tipping the scales at only 2315 lbs, it has a power-to-weight ratio close to that of the 220 horsepower Hummer H3. And these cars can carry just about anything. With the rear seats up these vehicles can fit decent amount of cargo. For most manufacturers, having competitive sub-compact cars has grown the business and created brand loyalty.

Future Techology of the Present

2009-10-24T02:55:00Z

Top Technologies of Today

The auto industry is filled with new technologies. Every year we are introduced to a possible glimpse of the future. Some technologies never make it beyond concept cars. But many not only make it into production, but over time become the norm. Here are a few that are gaining in popularity by the year.

Touch-Screen Dashboards

Carmakers are beginning to replace analog dials and controls with touch-screen displays. They were used in nearly every electric or hybrid vehicle unveiled at this year's auto shows. Some vehicles, such as Chrysler's 200C EV Concept, in fact have no analog controls. Touch screen dashboards are quickly becoming the norm and may be further proof that knobs, buttons and other "hard" controls are an endangered interface.

Bioplastics

Bioplastics contain varying amounts of organic materials such as corn, kelp or soy and are increasingly being used in automobiles as a ‘green’ alternative. Bioplastics are still plastic, though they contain less petroleum and result in a lower carbon footprint for automakers. The current environmental vulnerability of bioplastics, which can degrade when exposed to moisture and sunlight, makes them a better fit for interior components. But as researchers experiment with new organic compounds and more durable manufacturing techniques, analysts expect bioplastics to gradually replace traditional plastics, possibly even replacing today's door panels and other exterior components with a more sustainable alternative.

Clean Diesels

Diesels have recently overcome a common thought of dirty emissions. The new breed of diesels, commonly known as ‘clean diesels’, are much improved from diesel models of the past. Although this type of powertrain is very popular overseas, diesels seemed to be a dying breed in the US, at least for passenger cars. Yet, as of this year, Audi, BMW, Mercedes and Volkswagen are all selling clean diesels stateside, and other automakers are developing models meant to be sold in the States. Clean diesels may hold a strong place in the future of green cars.

The Evolution of EPA Mileage Ratings

2009-10-13T16:54:00Z

As more and more alternative fuel technologies enter the automotive world, the EPA is scrambling to find a way to produce realistic fuel consumption numbers. All vehicles on sale in the US have a mileage rating, set by the EPA, available. But cars that are still in development or even concept stages can only estimate what they will get. EPA fuel economy ratings are designed to give prospective owners an idea of relative fuel cost in real-world driving as well as a way of comparing various models on equal ground. The ratings are listed in the EPA’s annual Fuel Economy Guide, at fueleconomy.gov, or on the window sticker of any new vehicle; they’re also used in figuring an automaker’s corporate average fuel economy (CAFE) and in assessing a gas-guzzler tax on some vehicles. But because vehicles like the Volt are still in development stages, they have not yet gotten the EPA’s rating.

In the tests, vehicles are driven under controlled conditions in a laboratory using a dynamometer—described by the EPA as a treadmill for cars. The dynamometer accounts for things like drag and air resistance, and temperature, humidity, and even barometric pressure are all accounted for. Nearly all vehicles are tested by the manufacturers according to strict stipulations, with full test results sent to the EPA; then the EPA confirms between 10 and 15 percent of the results annually at its National Vehicles and Fuel Emission Laboratory in Ann Arbor, Michigan. The two basic test cycles, City and Highway, have been run in much the same way for decades. The City test represents low-speed and stop-and-go driving, with a cold start, a top speed of 56 mph, and an average of just 20 mph, with 23 stops over 11 miles. Maximum acceleration is an extremely gentle 3.3 mph/second though. The Highway test, is intended to replicate free-flow highway driving, with an average speed of 48 mph and a top speed of 60 mph over 10 miles, with no stops and no idling.

Over the years the two sets of test numbers have been adjusted a couple of times to better match the numbers seen in real-world driving. Most recently, in 2008, along with a new fuel economy label for new cars, three new tests were added—High Speed, AC, and Cold Temp—to bring City and Highway estimates more in line with what a high percentages of drivers could obtain in real-world driving. Regulators decided to use the new five-cycle tests to recognize that there are different effects in different types of vehicles. The new fuel economy tests will have slightly more impact lower-power vehicles and smaller-displacement engines suffering bigger hits because of the AC test, for instance.

From 2008 until 2011, as the new tests are being phased in, manufacturers can choose from performing all five of the new tests to yield revised City and Highway figures, or adjust their figures from existing tests using a set of equations. From the 2011 model year on, manufacturers will be required to run all five test cycles, so don’t be surprised if the numbers change a bit next year, too. Most major automakers have phased in the new method for some but not all of its vehicles this year.

The 2010 4Runner is Here!

2009-09-30T16:55:00Z

The new 2010 Toyota 4Runner has arrived!

The MSRP for the all-new 5th generation 4Runner will range from $27,500 for the SR5 grade 4x4 with a four-cylinder engine to $39,800 for the Limited grade 4x4 equipped with a V-6 engine. Interestingly, the MSRP of the most popular selling 4Runner, the SR5 4x4 V-6, will remain the same as the previous generation at $30,915, even though it receives more than $1,700 in added equipment. The 4Runner "Trail" has an MSRP of $35,700. The three trims vary in features. 4Runner SR5, the most affordable of the bunch gets Homelink universal transceiver technology, in-key remote keyless entry, and a multi-information display. Next up is 4Runner Trail, which is designed specifically for more rugged terrain. It gets locking wheel differential, multi terrain select, Crawl Control, a rear locker, 8 way power driver’s and 4 way power passenger’s seats, and a bunch of other cool stuff. The 2010 4Runner Limited, the top of the line, has a leather trimmed interior, 20-in alloy wheels, and a dual zone automatic digital climate control.