2014 Toyota Tundra – First Look

Leave a comment

Image

Ask most truck buyers why they bought the truck they have and it usually comes down to one or two reasons. If you’re financially stable enough to be picky, the number one reason is brand loyalty, which usually begins early on in life. Depending on where you live, the second reason someone buys the truck they do is because it’s designed and built in the good ol’ US of A. This is good news for the Ford F-150, Chevrolet Silverado, and Ram 1500, but not so much for the Toyota Tundra. But then you remember that not only was the Tundra designed, engineered, and styled, in the United States, it’s also assembled in that Mecca of U.S. truck consumption: Texas.

The Toyota Tundra truly has Dual Citizenship.  This is an exciting time to be a CarGuy like myself.  I can’t wait for these trucks to hit the lot (Expected to arrive in Late August).  Stay up to date on the latest information by following me on Twitter & Facebook, or visit www.EASTTXCARGUY.com.  

Best Mobile Apps for Car Emergencies

Leave a comment

Image

If you’re unfortunate enough to be involved in a car emergency, your first priority will always be the safety of your passengers, other drivers, and anybody else that may be involved. While you may instinctively reach for your phone to call for emergency assistance, you should also remember that your smartphone could come in handy in other ways. Here are five apps you may want to consider downloading to your smartphone that could be very useful during an emergency.

C.A.R. – Car Accident Report – FREE

If you’re involved in a car accident, once you have ensured that nobody is hurt, you should also ensure that you’ve recorded all the relevant details required in the event that you need to make an insurance claim. Car Accident Report can help you do just that. The user interface has been designed to be as simple as possible, even under stressful conditions, and it allows you to capture audio, photos, drawings, and texts, all of which can be e-mailed in a single report afterwards.

RepairPal: Auto Repair Expert – FREE

If you run into a mechanical problem with your car, it can be very unsettling, particularly if you have no experience or knowledge of what could be the problem. That’s when you might want to turn to RepairPal, which has a host of different features. Find a repair shop, get roadside assistance, or even get expert advice about a potential issue before you get back behind the wheel.

iWrecked – Auto Accident Assistant – FREE

iWrecked works like C.A.R. by providing a one-stop shop for all the information and support that you might need in the event of an accident, with some additional useful tools. You can find a taxi company nearby to get you home or to get you to the repair shop. You can also store images and information for an unlimited number of vehicles.

Gas Cubby Lite – FREE

It’s always important to be able to track your gas mileage, not only to ensure that you get the best value for money, but also to make sure you have enough to make the distance! Gas Cubby helps you track and chart gas mileage, gas price, gas expenses, and service expenses. It also helps you track vehicle maintenance requirements to ensure that you don’t go past a critical interval.

Car Care & Roadside Emergencies – FREE

A breakdown could be a nuisance or could be very dangerous, so it’s incredibly important to diagnose the problem quickly and work out whether you can fix it or whether you need to call for assistance. That’s when you might want to turn to Car Care & Roadside Emergencies. Whether it’s changing a tire, jump-starting a battery, or dealing with an overheated engine, this app can help you sort out the problem quickly and safely.

Toyota Reveals Redesigned 2011 Avalon at Chicago Auto Show

Leave a comment

• Distinctive New Styling Offers a Modern, Upscale Appearance
• “Travel Avalon Class” with Segment’s Only Reclining Rear Seat and Overall Comfort
• Modern Technologies Provide Comprehensible Convenience
 
CHICAGO (February, 10, 2010) – Toyota introduced the boldly redesigned 2011 Avalon today at the 2010 Chicago Auto Show.  Evoking a time when travel was sophisticated, elegant and comfortable, the new Avalon possesses a distinctive new exterior style while offering a restyled interior rich with premium touch points and practical new technologies.
 
Even with numerous refinements inside and out, the Avalon remains true to the idea that comfort is honest and uncomplicated, and “Traveling Avalon Class” is rich in simple, familiar pleasures.
 
The new 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.
 
“The Avalon has long been appreciated by smart, conscientious consumers who recognize quality materials and the beauty of detailed craftsmanship,” said Bob Carter, group vice president and general manager, Toyota Division, Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A.  “The changes made for 2011 will allow us to build on our position in the premium large car segment.  The competition does not stand still, and neither do we.”
 
Restyled at Calty Design Research in Newport Beach, Calif., the Avalon is assembled at Toyota Motor Manufacturing Kentucky (TMMK), a “zero landfill” facility that also assembles the Camry, Camry Hybrid, and Venza.  It was also developed at the Toyota Technical Center (TTC) in Ann Arbor, Mich.
 
Dynamic New Exterior
For 2011, Calty 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 new headlamps, which combine multi-reflector halogen high beams with halogen or HID low beams, utilize light pipes to create a signature, night-time appearance.  The front fog lamps, now integrated into a trapezoidal front bumper, provide a wider angle of illumination.
 
Viewed from the side, the 2011 Avalon is enhanced by additional use of chrome trim, redesigned rocker panels, and glare-resistant outer mirrors with integrated turn signals.  New 17-inch wheels on the Limited grade feature a 10-spoke design with a mirror finish.
 
At the rear of the car, identification is cleanly defined by a single Avalon logo located above the license plate.  Dual-exhaust pipes are integrated into the cutaway trapezoid shape of the lower bumper for a modern image.  Taillights have been reshaped to reduce turbulence at the rear, helping to create a lower coefficient of drag.  The new lights integrate stop, turn and side marker lighting functions in one combined lamp.  Unique LED light pipes with dark aluminized sides and both clear and red lenses project a modern appearance.
 
Spacious Interior Built For Comfort
For 2011, a new interior has been designed with a contemporary style.  The new interior remains generously spacious and elegant, fitted with comfortable seating and thoughtfully integrated amenities.  Coordinated colors and rich wood-grain materials were carefully chosen to convey an optimistic attitude and modern essence.
 
Standard leather-trimmed front seats and seatbacks on the Limited are fitted with ventilation systems and an enlarged perforation area to help keep them cool.  Interior seats feature thicker stitching, which provides an elegant accent to the interior design.  Active front headrests are also standard.
 
The rear seating area is configured to seat three passengers comfortably, with ample legroom and reclining rear seats, unique in the segment.  The rear headrests have also been reshaped and enlarged for better support, and a convenient flip-down center armrest provides storage when the middle seat is not in use.
 
A power rear sunshade, deployable via a one-touch lever, filters direct sunlight coming through the rear window.  The sunshade, which helps to protect rear seat passengers from unwanted light and heat, automatically detracts when the driver selects reverse gear.
 
A new instrument panel incorporates visually attractive and highly readable Optitron gauges that use graduated white illumination with white pointers.  They are set inside smoked lenses and deep chrome rings that add depth and a sense of luxury.
 
The steering wheel includes controls for Bluetooth hands-free phones, the audio system, climate system, and the information center.
 
Technology-Enriched Environment
A comprehensive infusion of technology was designed into the new interior to ensure an enriched environment, with enhanced function and connectivity.
 
New standard equipment includes Bluetooth® hands-free phone and music streaming to the audio system from a compatible device, XM® satellite radio (subscription required), and both USB and 1/8-inch auxiliary connections for iPod® and other audio devices.  Each of the three available audio systems can control iPods seamlessly using switches located on the steering wheel and display track information stored in the device.
 
Toyota’s latest DVD Navigation system has a newly adopted database and now has easier search and address input functionality.  The Navigation system also offers new displays for road icons and points of interest, and a keyboard screen arranged in the same way as a personal computer. 
 
The Avalon grade’s standard nine-speaker system offers exceptional sound quality, while the Limited grade features a standard 12-speaker, 660-watt JBL Premium Synthesis audio system with enhanced two-coil sub-woofer.  The system uses 12 speakers and a 12-channel digital amplifier to deliver profoundly rich, full sound to all seats of the vehicle.
 
A rear-view monitor function is standard in the rear-view mirror or with the navigation system.  The rear-view-mirror image includes on-screen back-up guides that help drivers to back into parking spots or driveways.
 
Performance and Efficiency Combined
Avalon’s exceptional combination of ample horsepower and excellent fuel economy offers one of the best overall dynamic performances in the large sedan segment.
 
The 2011 Avalon is powered by a 24-valve, dual-overhead cam 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 268 horsepower at 6,200 rpm.  The engine is equipped with the latest dual VVT-i electronic valve-control mechanism that provides a broader powerband, while requiring less fuel and generating fewer emissions.  It is mated to a multi-mode six-speed automatic transmission.
 
The 2011 Avalon is an Ultra Low Emission Vehicle (ULEV), EPA-estimated to deliver 20 mpg in the city, 29 highway, and 23 combined, as good as or better than any V6 model in the segment.
 
A roadworthy mix of fine ride quality and accurate driving control is delivered by the Avalon’s MacPherson strut suspension, which uses coil springs at all four corners.  Rack-and-pinion steering combines with front-wheel-drive and optimized steering gear for a natural handling feel.
 
Simple Comforts Throughout
A dual-zone climate control system has nine air-flow modes for more precise control of interior climate, and a clean-air filter removes dust and pollen.  Doors use three stop positions instead of two for easier entrance and exit.  A lockable glove box has a pneumatic-door damper and inner box illumination.  The front-console box has a sliding armrest that moves 4.7 inches front to rear, able to accommodate a wide range of driver positions.  The elegantly stitched top is padded with a double density cushion material for softness.  Inside, there is a 12-volt outlet in addition to the USB and auxiliary audio terminals.
 
Safety is Standard
The new Avalon’s occupant-safety strategy includes use of extensively tested energy absorbing structures, protective side impact beams and overhead structure, advanced belt systems and active front headrests as standard equipment.  Avalon will also have a redesigned accelerator pedal assembly and a brake override system.
 
Seven airbags, including a front knee bag for the driver, and front side curtain airbags for both rows, are also standard.  Toyota’s standard Star Safety System includes Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), anti-lock braking system (ABS) with Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist, and TRAC traction control system.  TRAC and VSC functions can be disengaged if the driver needs to free the vehicle if stuck in mud or snow.
 
A full-size spare and alloy wheel is standard.  Each wheel has its own pressure sensor to warn if tire pressure drops, providing the driver with an early warning to find a safe place to change a tire.
 
Simplified Packaging
The 2011 Avalon will be available in two grades when it arrives in showrooms in the spring of 2010, Avalon and Limited.  Both grades will be well equipped with standard equipment like eight-way leather-trimmed power driver’s seats, back-up camera, dual zone automatic climate control with air filtration, moonroof and 17-inch alloy wheels.  Limited will have additional standard equipment, such as an eight-way passenger’s seat with lumbar support, driver’s seat cushion extension, rain-sensing wipers, Smart Key and cooled leather seats.  Avalon grade can be upgraded with features like a JBL Synthesis sound system and heated front seats, while Navigation is optional for both grades.
 
Color and Trim
Avalon will be available in nine exterior colors including three new colors: Zephyr Blue Metallic, Cypress Pearl and Sizzling Crimson Mica.  Additional colors include Cocoa Bean Metallic, Blizzard Pearl, Classic Silver Metallic, Magnetic Gray Metallic, Black, and Sandy Beach Metallic.  Avalon grade will be mated to three leather-trimmed interior colors: Ivory, Light Gray, and Black.  Limited grade receives Ivory, Light Gray, and Black Bordeaux trims with accent-color trim on the vertical surfaces.
 
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.  Toyota dealers have complete details on the limited warranty.
 
The redesigned 2011 Avalon will begin arriving at Toyota dealerships nationally in spring 2010.
 
###

Toyota Debuts New Auto Access Seat for Third-Generation 2011 Sienna at North American International Auto Show

Leave a comment

DETROIT (Jan. 11, 2010) – Toyota will display 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.
 
Once inside, the Auto Access Seat occupant can utilize reclining and slide switches located on both sides of the seat.  This allows operation of up to four inches of slide travel and reclining of up to 24 degrees.  The auto-recline feature also allows for safe head clearance through the door frame during entry and exit.  The compact design of the seat also provides ample legroom for third-row passengers.
 
The Auto Access Seat is equipped with a number of safety attributes, including an audible beep when the seat is in operation, and a park-shift interlock feature that prevents seat operation if the vehicle is not in the “Park” position.  A sliding door sensor allows the seat to operate only when the sliding door is completely open.  Two audible beeps will warn the user of a partially open sliding-door condition, or if the seat is not fully stowed when the door close button is pressed.  A manual retraction function allows the seat to be retracted fully in the event of a vehicle power failure.
 
The Auto Access Seat also features obstruction-detection programming, which notifies the operator with two audible beeps and halts seat operation.  The seat will retract when an obstruction is met to facilitate easier removal of the object.
 
Additional safety features include Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) to properly secure any iso-fix style child safety seat.  The Auto Access Seat meets all Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS).
 
The Auto Access Seat will be available on Sienna LE and XLE models.  The seat fabric matches the vehicle interior fabric and has a stain- and odor-resistant treatment.  The seat is vinyl trimmed on the XLE model to better match the XLE grade interior style and allows for easier passenger transfer.
 
Consumers will benefit from Toyota quality, durability, and reliability with the new Auto Access Seat system.  The seat-operating mechanism is link-driven, allowing enhanced durability and a more quiet operation than chain-driven systems.  The Auto Access Seat has a lift capacity of up to 330 lbs., making it useful for people of all sizes or those who carry specialized medical equipment.  Owners will also enjoy the convenience of having the seat system serviced at their local Toyota dealership, which comes with a comprehensive three-year/36,000 mile factory warranty.
 
Toyota’s Auto Access Seat will be available when the new third-generation Sienna goes on sale in February 2010 (dealer order may be required).
 
Toyota will also display a new wheelchair-accessible Sienna Rampvan converted by BraunAbility at the Detroit show.  With an automatic side-entry ramp, 10-inch-lowered floor, 56-inch-tall side-door opening and removable front seats; wheelchair users can choose to ride in the center of the van, the front-passenger position, or even drive from their chair.  This state-of-the-art conversion takes full advantage of the innovative features of the all-new Sienna and will be available in the second quarter of 2010.  BraunAbility is the leading manufacturer of accessible wheelchair vans and wheelchair lifts.