Auto news and reviews from Car Buyer's Notebook.com: Toyota Archives

August 15, 2008

Toyota Highlander to Feature All-New Four-Cylinder Engine

Capable Performance Plus Outstanding Fuel Efficiency Equals Excellent Value

TORRANCE, Calif.-- Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc., announced today that the 2009 Highlander mid-size sport utility vehicle (SUV) will offer an all-new, powerful yet fuel-efficient 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine. When it arrives at dealerships in mid-to-late January, the new Highlander powerplant will be among the best mid-size SUVs in the areas of performance, fuel economy and value.

The new 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine will generate an impressive 187 horsepower at 5,800 RPM and 186 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,100 RPM on regular 87 octane fuel. A dual exhaust manifold will help achieve exceptional low-end torque and maximize its power output. In addition to its performance output, the Highlander equipped with the new four-cylinder will be EPA-rated as an Ultra Low Emission Vehicle (ULEVII) and is expected to be among the leaders in fuel efficiency in the gas mid-size SUV segment. Official EPA fuel efficiency ratings will be announced closer to launch.

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August 13, 2008

Design Points Of The 2009 Toyota Venza

Torrance, CA - The 2009 Toyota Venza, scheduled to go on sale later this year, is the first example of Toyota's new direction in passenger car design combining elegance, innovation, comfort and utility.

"We wanted to create something entirely different," said Kevin Hunter, president of Toyota's Calty Design Research in Newport Beach, Calif., and Ann Arbor, Mich. "Not an SUV, not a wagon, not a coupe and not a sedan. We aimed for a more road-focused vehicle and sporty direction."

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August 12, 2008

Toyota Weighs Export of U.S. Vehicles

Toyota Motor Corp. is exploring whether to export its U.S. pickup and sport-utility vehicles to other countries. Toyota, like rivals Ford Motor Co. and General Motors Corp., is finding it difficult to sell the larger vehicles as gas prices hover near the $4 mark.

Automotive executives say there has been a fundamental shift away from the vehicles and that sales will never return to the levels they once reached. Tundra sales have dropped 15% through July 31, and production of both vehicles was idled last week due to rising inventories. Toyota, which imports about 30% of the vehicles it sells in the U.S., joins a growing list of companies that are considering exporting products given the weak dollar.

August 9, 2008

Toyota Reports 28% Fall in Profit

TOKYO -- Toyota said Thursday that its fiscal first-quarter profit plummeted 28 percent and stuck to its forecast that full-year profit with fall for the first time in seven years as it faces more problems from the weakening U.S. market.

Toyota Motor Corp., which had been riding on the success of its fuel-efficient cars, has consistently posted growing profit since it started reporting under U.S. accounting standards. And there's no previous comparable data that shows its annual profit has ever fallen.

Weak U.S. Truck Sales Hurt Toyota Net

TOKYO -- Slumping U.S. sales of pickup trucks and sport-utility vehicles contributed to a 28% drop in Toyota Motor Corp.'s net profit for its fiscal first quarter, even as demand soared for its more fuel-efficient models.

Income for Japan's No. 1 auto maker by sales volume was also battered by a stronger yen, which reduces the value of overseas earnings, as well as higher material costs and losses from vehicle leasing in the U.S.

August 7, 2008

Toyota Earns 11 Awards in 2008 Dependability Study

Torrance, CA - Toyota and Lexus models have earned 11 segment awards out of a possible 19 in the 2008 J.D. Power and Associates Vehicle Dependability Study, more than any other manufacturer for the third consecutive year.

The VDS is one of many vehicle surveys which continue to consistently rank Toyota and Lexus at the top of their respective studies.

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August 6, 2008

Toyota Awards $500,000 to IIT Academy

Chicago -- The Center for Strategic Competitiveness at Illinois Institute of Technology (IIT) Stuart School of Business is pleased to announce that it has received a generous $500,000 grant from the Toyota U.S.A. Foundation to support the Academy for Future Leaders in Science and Technology.

The Academy, scheduled to launch in the summer of 2009, invites talented, but often under-served high school students, aged 16-18, from the metropolitan Chicago area to attend a summer-long science and technology education and internship experience at IIT's university campus.

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August 5, 2008

Toyota Announces Prices for 2009 RAV4 SUV

TORRANCE, Calif. -- Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc., announced manufacturer's suggested retail prices (MSRP) today for the 2009 RAV4 compact sport utility vehicle (SUV).

Equipped with numerous enhancements for 2009, the average MSRP for the RAV4 will increase by $224, or 0.9 percent. The 2009 RAV4 will begin arriving at Toyota dealerships in early September.

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Toyota Unit Cuts Staff Amid Weak U.S. Sales

TOKYO -- A production unit of Toyota Motor Corp. said Tuesday it laid off about 800 contract workers in June and August to reduce production of vehicles bound for North America, as car sales in the U.S. continue to slump.

However, a spokesman at Toyota Motor Kyushu Inc. said it will rehire 500 contract staff in the autumn or afterward to prepare to increase output, indicating it expects the production adjustment to end in several months. Toyota last week cut its U.S. sales projection for this year to 2.44 million vehicles from its previous plan of 2.64 million.

Nissan Murano, Volkswagen Tiguan Rated 'Very Good' in New Tests

YONKERS, N.Y. -- The new Volkswagen Tiguan and redesigned Nissan Murano achieved "Very Good" overall scores - and outpointed some of their competitors - in Consumer Reports' tests of compact and midsized, two-row sport-utility vehicles for the September issue.

The Tiguan and Murano were part of a group of six vehicles including the Infiniti EX, Land Rover LR2, Volkswagen Touareg 2, and Jeep Grand Cherokee that were tested. Prices-as-tested for the vehicles ranged from $35,479 for the Tiguan to $43,350 for the Touareg.

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August 3, 2008

Toyota Announces Prices for 2009 Yaris Subcompact

TORRANCE, Calif. -- Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc., today announced manufacturer's suggested retail prices (MSRP) for the three fuel efficient 2009 Toyota Yaris subcompact models.

MSRPs will range from $12,205 for the three-door Liftback Base model to $15,880 for the Sedan S model when the vehicles hit dealerships later this summer.

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August 1, 2008

Toyota Reports July Sales Drop 18.7%

Torrance, CA - Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc., today reported July sales of 197,424 vehicles, a decrease of 18.7 percent from last July, on a daily selling rate basis.

The Toyota Division posted July sales of 175,242 units, a decrease of 17.9 percent from last July. The Lexus Division reported July sales of 22,182 units, a decrease of 24.6 percent from the year-ago month.

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July 30, 2008

U.S. Sales to go Down in '08, Toyota Predicts

Toyota Motor Corp. expects its annual U.S. auto sales to fall for the first time in 17 years, reflecting a severe downturn that sideswiped its Tundra pickup and other big vehicles.

The troubles in the U.S. auto market led Japan's biggest carmaker to cut its overall sales forecast for 2008, but Toyota said on Monday that it still expects to sell more vehicles worldwide this year than it did in 2007 because of solid demand in emerging markets.

Chrysler, GM and Nissan are Tops in Online Search Visibility

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. -- iCrossing, a global digital marketing company, today announced the findings of the Vertical Visibility Index: Automotive, the first in a series of studies analyzing the paid and natural search media visibility leaders within specific industry verticals.

iCrossing found that Chrysler, GM and Nissan North America are doing the best job of taking a synergistic search engine marketing approach, with the highest scores for combined visibility. Ford leads for natural search visibility and Hyundai has the greatest paid search visibility for the keyword set analyzed.

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July 27, 2008

Toyota announces price increase for 2009 Prius

The base MSRP gas-electric Prius Hybrid will range from $22,000 for the Standard grade to $24,270 for the Touring grade.

The overall average price for Prius will increase $500, or 2.2 percent.

Toyota announces price increase for 2009 Scion xD

The manual transmission 2009 Scion xD will have an MSRP of $14,650, reflecting an increase of $100, or 0.7 percent.

The automatic transmission model will be $15,450 representing an increase $100, or 0.7 percent.

Toyota announces price increase for 2009 Camry and Camry Hybrid

The 2009 Toyota Camry sedan will receive an MSRP adjustment reflecting an increase of $225, or 1.0 percent.

The base MSRP will range from $19,145 for the Camry four-cylinder with a five-speed manual transmission to $28,695 for the XLE V6 with a six-speed automatic.

The gas-electric Camry Hybrid will receive a price adjustment increase of $500, or 1.9 percent. The new MSRP will be $26,150.

Toyota announces price increase for 2009 Matrix

A price adjustment for the 2009 Toyota Matrix will increase its MSRP by $100, or 0.5 percent.

The base MSRP will range from $16,290 for the 4x2 Standard grade with a five-speed manual transmission to $21,950 for the 4x2 XRS with a five-speed automatic.

Toyota announces price increase for 2009 Corolla

The 2009 Toyota Corolla sedan will receive a price adjustment increase of $100, or 0.6 percent.

The base MSRP will range from $15,350 for the Base grade with a five-speed manual transmission to $20,050 for the XRS grade with a five-speed automatic transmission.

Toyota announces price increase for 2009 Sienna minivan

The base MSRP for the 2009 Toyota Sienna van will range from $24,540 for the seven-passenger front-wheel-drive CE grade to $37,865 for the all-wheel-drive XLE Limited.

The average base MSRP for Sienna will increase $100, or 0.4 percent.

Toyota announces price increase for 2009 Highlander

The base MSRP for the 2009 Toyota Highlander mid-size SUV will range from $27,600 for the Base front-wheel-drive model with a V6 engine and five-speed automatic transmission to $34,520 for the Limited four-wheel-drive V6 with a five-speed automatic.

The overall average MSRP for Highlander will increase by $47, or 0.2 percent. The base MSRP for the gas-electric Highlander Hybrid will range from $34,700 for the two-row, four-wheel-drive with intelligence base model to $41,020 for the three-row, four-wheel-drive with intelligence Limited. The overall average MSRP for the Highlander Hybrid increases by $518, or 1.4 percent.

Toyota announces price increase for 2009 4Runner

The base MSRP for the 2009 Toyota 4Runner SUV will range from $28,640 for the 4x2 SR5 V6 to $39,360 for the 4x4 Limited V8.

On average the MSRP for the 2009 4Runner increases by $225, or 0.7 percent.

Toyota announces price increase for 2009 Land Cruiser

For 2009, the Toyota Land Cruiser full-size SUV adds factory privacy glass on the rear side and quarter windows as standard equipment. The base MSRP for the Land Cruiser will be $64,755, representing an increase of $655, or 1.0 percent.

Toyota announces price increase for 2009 FJ Cruiser

The 2009 FJ Cruiser Sport Utility Vehicle (SUV) adds driver and front passenger active headrests, roll-sensing curtain airbags, a VSC cut-off switch, front map light, and a driver-side vanity mirror as standard equipment.

The FJ also adds three new colors -- non-metallic Black, Silver, and Iceberg White with all-white monochromatic finish. The base MSRP for the FJ Cruiser will range from $23,320 for the 4x2 V6 with a five-speed automatic transmission to $24,910 for the 4x4 V6 automatic. Overall, the price of the 2009 FJ Cruiser increases by $275, or 1.1 percent.

Toyota announces price increase for 2009 Avalon

The 2009 Toyota Avalon full-size sedan adds to its value with additional standard equipment that includes driver and front passenger active headrests, Brake Assist, traction control, Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), and a satellite radio ready color-keyed SDARS antenna and prewire.

The base MSRP for Avalon will range from $27,845 for the XL grade to $35,185 for the premium Limited grade. Overall, Avalon prices will increase $520, or 1.7 percent.

July 23, 2008

Toyota Expands Yaris Line for 2009

TORRANCE, Calif. -- Toyota is adding a five-door Liftback to its popular, fuel-efficient Yaris subcompact model line for 2009.

The versatile new five-door Yaris joins the three-door Liftback and four-door Sedan, making Yaris the only model line in its segment to offer a full complement of three body styles. Toyota projects 130,000 Yaris sales for calendar year 2009, with the new five-door accounting for about a third of those. Yaris five-door will begin arriving in dealerships in August.

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Toyota Announces Management Changes

TORRANCE, Calif. -- Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc. announced management promotions for its Toyota and Lexus divisions.

The following executive assignments are effective immediately:

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July 18, 2008

Toyota Launches Research Effort On Corporate Energy Efficiency

Washington, DC -- The Pew Center on Global Climate Change and Toyota are pleased to announce the launch of a new research project to document and communicate best practices in corporate energy efficiency strategies.

The project's goal is to educate corporations on the most effective methods to reduce energy use and related greenhouse gas emissions, while addressing the market and internal barriers many corporations face in implementing these strategies.

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Toyota Awards Grant to Support Environmental Volunteers' Science Programs

Palo Alto, CA - Environmental Volunteers (The EV), a 36-year-old science education non-profit, announced today that it has been awarded a 3-year grant of $146,250 from the Toyota USA Foundation, the largest corporate grant in EV history, to support its environmental science programs at 60 schools in Santa Clara and San Mateo counties.

The EV trains hundreds of volunteers to deliver approximately 500 hands-on science programs to more than 10,000 elementary school students annually. Information about the EV's science programs is available at www.EVols.org.

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July 16, 2008

Report: Toyota to Cut 2008 Global Sales Target

TOKYO -- Toyota Motor, in a close race with General Motors for the title of the world's top automaker, will lower its global sales target as U.S. demand slumps, a newspaper said today.

The Japanese auto giant plans to forecast global sales of 9.5 million vehicles this year, down from a previous estimate of 9.85 million, the Yomiuri Shimbun said in its evening edition, quoting unnamed company sources. The downward revision was mainly due to a slump in sales of large vehicles in the United States amid soaring fuel prices, while sales were also down in Europe and Japan, the top-selling Japanese daily said.

July 12, 2008

Toyota Offers Bluetooth Hands-Free System On 15 Models

Torrance, CA -- Toyota currently offers integrated Bluetooth hands-free wireless systems in 15 models and will make it available on the all-new 2009 Venza when it goes on sale this fall.

With more states enacting laws that prohibit driving while talking on handheld cell phones, the Bluetooth hands-free systems connection between certain Toyota models and most Bluetooth-enabled mobile phones provide an easy wireless solution.

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July 11, 2008

Toyota Brings Mobile Hybrid Experience to Hybridfest 2008

MADISON, Wis. -- Toyota is bringing its nationwide tour called "Highway to the Future: Mobile Hybrid Experience," to Hybridfest 2008 in Madison, Wis., on July 19-20th as part of the Dane County Fair.

The tour is designed to provide consumers with a firsthand opportunity to experience automotive hybrid technology and learn what they can do to make a difference in the environment.

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July 10, 2008

Toyota to Build Prius in U.S.

ERLANGER, Ky. -- Toyota is responding to changes in consumer demand and improving the production efficiency and stability of its North American operations by adjusting production mix at three plants. The changes include the addition of the Prius hybrid sedan to its North American lineup.

The changes are as follows:

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Toyota to build Prius in Mississippi

Toyota Motor Corp. today revealed that it has scrambled its manufacturing plans to produce fewer light trucks and more hybrid cars in the United States.

Toyota said it will build the hot-selling Prius hybrid at its Tupelo, Miss., factory in late 2010, scrubbing a plan to make the next-generation Highlander crossover there. Instead, the Highlander will be added to Toyota's underutilized truck plant in Princeton, Ind.

July 9, 2008

Toyota Donates $50,000 To Kentucky Natural Lands Trust

Georgetown, KY - Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Kentucky, Inc. (TMMK) has awarded a $50,000 grant to the Kentucky Natural Lands Trust (KNLT) to support the Save Kentucky's Hemlock Project.

The project is focused on saving hemlock trees that have become the target of the Hemlock Wooly Adelgid, an insect that feeds on the needles of the hemlock and can cause death to the trees within three to five years.

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Toyota Foundation Awards $312,176 To Support MSU Math And Science Initiative

Bozeman, Montana -- The Toyota USA Foundation has awarded $312,000 to Montana State University's College of Engineering to support Teaching Engineering Applications in Math and Science (TEAMS), an innovative program designed to enhance teaching of K-12 math and science in and around Montana's Native American communities.

Through Teams, MSU will partner with one middle school on each of Montana's seven Native American reservations and one middle school bordering each.

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July 8, 2008

Toyota Matrix Sponsors Asian American Film Fest

TORRANCE, Calif. -- The Toyota Matrix is the official vehicle sponsor of the 31st Asian American International Film Festival (AAIFF), running July 10 through July 19, 2008.

The festival takes place in New York City, and reaches an audience of more than 25,000 during the eight days. Proudly known as "The First Home to Asian American Cinema," the AAIFF was the nation's first festival dedicated to screening works by media artists of Asian descent and about the Asian community.

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Honda's Flexibility Shows Widening Gap Over Toyota

As the average U.S. price of regular gasoline has risen 39 percent in a year -- to $4.10 a gallon, according to the AAA motor club -- Honda's flexible North American factories have been running at full tilt.

Japan's second-biggest automaker is shifting production from trucks to automobiles to keep up with surging demand for fuel-efficient vehicles, while larger Toyota is closing its San Antonio plant for 14 days between now and the end of October to reduce output of Tundra pickups.

It might take Toyota a year or more to convert the truck plant to auto production, said Michael Robinet, an analyst with automotive consulting firm CSM Worldwide Inc. in Northville, Michigan. Toyota's pickups, unlike Honda's, don't share basic design structures with its cars.

July 7, 2008

Toyota to Add Solar Panels to Some Prius Hybrids

TOKYO -- Toyota Motor Corp plans to install solar panels on some Prius hybrids in its next remodeling, responding to growing demand for "green" cars amid record-high oil prices, a source briefed on the matter said on Monday.

The panels, supplied by Kyocera Corp would be able to power part of the air-conditioning on high-end versions of the gasoline-electric Prius, the source said. "It's more of a symbolic gesture," said the source, who asked not to be identified. "It's very difficult to power much more than that with solar energy."

Toyota is due to launch the third-generation Prius next year. But solar power is not seen as a viable solution to power cars. Solar panels are expensive due to rising silicon prices and storing energy is difficult, the source said. It was unknown how much the solar panels on the new Prius cars would cost, or how many solar-mounted versions Toyota would build.

July 1, 2008

Toyota Reports June Sales Down 11.5%

TORRANCE, Calif. -- Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc., today reported half-year sales of 1,240,086 vehicles. For the month of June, TMS recorded sales of 193,234 units, a decrease of 11.5 percent from last June, on a daily selling rate basis.

The Toyota Division posted June sales of 172,981, down 10.3 percent from last June. The Lexus Division reported June sales of 20,253 units, a decrease of 21.1 percent from the year-ago month.

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June 30, 2008

Ford Waits as GM, Toyota Take Lead on Plug-In Hybrids

Ford Motor Co., under pressure to trim its reliance on trucks, said it's taking a measured approach on plug-in hybrid vehicles by letting rivals assume the risk of marketing the new technology.

"If customers aren't buying them, we're not making them," Ted Miller, Ford's senior manager of energy storage, said in an interview [last week]. "If there's going to be a true plug-in hybrid market, we're going to be there. It's just that that's a huge commitment to actually go to production."

That tack may force the world's third-largest automaker to play catch-up if plug-ins such as General Motors Corp.'s Chevrolet Volt concept can be built in high volume. The chief hurdle is a rechargeable battery for extended electric-only use. GM and Toyota Motor Corp., the biggest automakers, are racing to introduce a vehicle able to recharge from household electrical sockets in 2010. Ford has a test fleet of 20 plug-in sport-utility vehicles, without a target date for selling them.

June 28, 2008

Toyota Brings Mobile Hybrid Experience to Olympic Swim Trials

OMAHA, Neb. -- As U.S. Olympic swimming hopefuls, their families and fans plunge into the excitement of the Olympic swimming trials in Omaha next week, Toyota will be doing its part to make sure that all in attendance have a good experience.

At the Qwest Center Omaha on June 29 through July 6, swimmers will be treated to special amenities in the Toyota Energy Zone lounge.

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June 27, 2008

Toyota's Kentucky Plant Announces Grant Support To United Way of Kentucky

Georgetown, KY -- Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Kentucky, Inc. (TMMK) has awarded four grants to Kentucky United Ways across the Commonwealth totaling nearly $200,000 in support of education programs that focus on early childhood development.

The four agencies receiving the grants include United Way of Southeastern Kentucky/Hazard-Perry County Community Ministries, Inc., in Hazard, Ky.; United Way of Southern Kentucky in Bowling Green, Ky.; United Way of Pennyrile in Hopkinsville, Ky.; and United Way of Paducah-McCracken County in Paducah, Ky. All donations will provide seed money for new sustainable programs.

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Toyota's Donation Enhances Environmental Education at Great Smoky Mountains

GATLINBURG, Tenn. -- Toyota and Great Smoky Mountains National Park have partnered to foster environmental education through Toyota's contribution of $1 million and three hybrid vehicles to America's most visited national park.

In support of raising environmental awareness, the donation will enhance and develop a variety of new science education initiatives for K-12 students, teachers and families to encourage careers in science and service-learning opportunities.

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Toyota Announces American Manufacturing and R&D Appointments

ERLANGER, Ky. -- Toyota Motor Corporation (TMC) announced the following North American appointments today:

-- Mr. Tetsuo Agata was appointed president and chief operating officer of Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing North America, Inc. (TEMA) and was promoted to senior managing director of TMC.

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June 26, 2008

Toyota Kentucky donates $50,000 to help build school

Georgetown, KY -- Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Kentucky, Inc. (TMMK) made a $50,000 grant donation to the Center for Quality People & Organizations (CQPO) during a check presentation at the Toyota plant today.

The donation came after an application was submitted to help fund construction of a Project Based Learning Center on the campus of Scott County High School.

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June 24, 2008

Toyota Announces Field Organizational Changes

TORRANCE, Calif. -- Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc. today announced organizational changes at its Toyota and Lexus field offices. The following assignments are effective immediately:

Kevin Cour, general manager, Lexus Eastern area, is appointed to general manager of Toyota Division's New York region, filling the position previously held by the late David Fleming. Cour will be responsible for directing sales, service, parts, marketing and customer relations activities for Toyota dealers in the New York region. Cour will report to Jim Colon, vice president, sales, Toyota Division.

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Toyota May Cut U.S. Sales Goal

Toyota may cut its 2008 sales target as higher gasoline prices reduce demand in the U.S. Meeting the company's forecast of selling 2.64 million vehicles in the U.S., its biggest market, this year will be difficult, Executive Vice President Tokuichi Uranishi said at a shareholders meeting in Toyota City, Japan today.

The company will review its overall target next month, he said. Toyota's lead in fuel-efficient cars hasn't been sufficient to shield it from a slump in U.S. sales of larger vehicles.

The company has cut production of Tundra trucks twice because of a 22 percent drop in sales of large pickups including Ford Motor Co.'s F-150 and General Motors Corp.'s Chevrolet Silverado through May this year.

June 23, 2008

Toyota Donates $200,000 to to Aid Cedar Rapids Flood Victims

Torrance, CA - Toyota Financial Services (TFS), in partnership with Toyota Motor Sales, announced today that it is donating $200,000 and two utility vehicles to the American Red Cross to support relief efforts in the Cedar Rapids flood areas.

TFS, which has had a large Call Center in Cedar Rapids since 1991, presently has almost 600 associates who reside in the local area. The Center services Toyota customers who have financed or leased a vehicle through a dealer and TFS, and it additionally supports customers who have purchased Toyota automobile payment and vehicle protection plans.

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June 22, 2008

Toyota Facility Receives Highest Safety Status in California

ONTARIO, Calif. -- Toyota North American Parts Center California (NAPCC), the automotive warehouse parts operation in Ontario, Calif. that supports accessory and replacement parts business for Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc., announced today that it has achieved Voluntary Protection Program (VPP) Star status, the highest level of safety and health management bestowed from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration in California (Cal/OSHA).

The honor marks the first time an automobile company in the U.S. has been recognized with VPP Star status.

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June 20, 2008

Toyota truck sales floundering

Toyota Motor Corp. is likely to struggle to make money at its two truck plants in the U.S. this year, a consulting firm said, underscoring the toll slumping sales of trucks and sport-utility vehicles are taking on auto makers of all stripes.

The company is still likely to generate substantial profits in North America, thanks to booming sales of cars such as the Camry sedan and the Prius hybrid. But until recently Toyota had hoped an expansion into trucks would boost its bottom line in the U.S.

Wednesday, Toyota said it is slowing production at two of its truck plants in North America, in San Antonio, Texas, and Princeton, Ind., in a second such move to adjust the pace of work.

June 19, 2008

Toyota Linked to Sweatshop Abuses

NEW YORK -- Today the National Labor Committee (NLC) is releasing a 65-page report, "The Toyota You Don't Know" documenting serious human rights violations by the Toyota Motor Company, which will disturb most Americans.

"Celebrities like Julia Roberts, Leonardo DiCaprio, Brad Pit, Bill Maher and others have led the way in turning Toyota's Prius into a symbol of concern for our environment," said Charles Kernaghan, director of the NLC, "We hope that these same celebrities will now also challenge Toyota to improve its respect for human and worker rights. As a start, Toyota should cut its ties to the Burmese dictators and end the exploitation of foreign guest workers trafficked to Japan."

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June 17, 2008

Toyota Struggles to Keep Up With Hybrid Battery Production

TOKYO - Toyota Motor Corp. is struggling to keep up with booming demand for hybrid vehicles because it is unable to make enough batteries that are key parts in the hit "green" cars, a senior executive said Monday.

The crunch on battery production is likely to stay for the rest of the year, as new lines can't be added to boost production until next year, said Toyota Executive Vice President Takeshi Uchiyamada, who oversees production at Japan's top auto maker. "Hybrids are selling so well we are doing all we can to increase production," he said.

Toyota May Shift Plants from Trucks to Cars

TOKYO -- Toyota may convert truck assembly lines in the United States to meet demand for fuel-efficient cars, says the automaker's global manufacturing chief. The automaker could add unibody vehicles to truck plants or convert a truck line to car production, said Executive Vice President Takeshi Uchiyamada.

"Because of the declining sales of the Tundra and SUVs and the resulting decrease in the rate of operation of the lines producing those vehicles in the United States, we may consider a change in structure to enhance the rate of operation," Uchiyamada said here last week.

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Prius owners go plug-in with aftermarket mod

Soon drivers will be able to get at least double the gas mileage of a Toyota Prius hybrid, thanks to a spate of new aftermarket kits that convert any car into a plug-in electric vehicle. But they'll have to pay upwards of $10,000 to do so.

A123Systems, an automotive technology company and battery supplier based in Watertown, Mass., is now taking orders on its Web site for a Hymotion L5 conversion kit, which turns a Toyota Prius into a plug-in electric car. The kit works with Prius model years 2004 through 2008 and adds a special, range-extending lithium-ion battery to the Prius' existing drivetrain.

June 16, 2008

Toyota Donates $200,000 to Aid Cedar Rapids Flood Victims

TORRANCE, Calif. -- Toyota Financial Services (TFS), in partnership with Toyota Motor Sales, announced today that it is donating $200,000 and two utility vehicles to the American Red Cross to support relief efforts in the Cedar Rapids flood areas.

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June 14, 2008

Toyota Announces Prices for 2009 Tacoma Pickup

TORRANCE, Calif. -- Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc., announced manufacturer's suggested retail prices (MSRP) today for 2009 Tacoma pickup trucks, which range from $15,170 to $27,075.

Tacoma greatly enhances its overall value with the addition of several new features. All Tacoma models will now feature Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), and Traction Control (TRAC) as standard equipment, making Tacoma the latest model to feature Toyota's STAR Safety system consisting of Anti-Lock Brakes, Electronic Brake Force Distribution, Brake Assist, VSC, and TRAC.

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Toyota To Display Plug-In Prius at Congressional Caucus

NASHVILLE, Tenn. -- Toyota will display a prototype plug-in Prius hybrid at Legislative Plaza on Monday, June 16, during a field hearing on electric drive vehicles called for by the Congressional TVA Caucus.

The prototype Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) enhances the high fuel economy and ultra-low emissions of the popular Toyota Prius production hybrid model with an expanded Nickel-Metal-Hydride battery pack that can be charged by plugging into a standard household electrical outlet.

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June 13, 2008

Toyota Goes Fashion Forward

NEW YORK -- Toyota along with the help of Essence Magazine launched their IFLOOKSCOULDKILL.COM campaign in New York on June 11.

The event consisted of an electrifying fashion show by Alexis Phifer of Ghita, a thrilling musical performance by Grammy-nominated recording artist Keyshia Cole and spinning by DJ Beverly Bonds.

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Toyota Claims Best Fuel Economy

TORRANCE, Calif. -- Through advances in engine design and hybrid technology, Toyota has a wide selection of fuel-sipping cars and the best overall average fuel economy of any full-line manufacturer.

With gas prices at an all-time high, Toyota has seven models with EPA-rated highway fuel economy of 30 miles per gallon (mpg) or higher such as the four-cylinder Camry, Camry Hybrid (counted as separate model), Solara, Corolla, Matrix, Yaris and Prius. America's favorite hybrid, the Toyota Prius, is the company's highest-mileage vehicle with an EPA highway rating of 45 mpg.

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June 8, 2008

Toyota sponsors environmental exhibit

Washington, D.C. -- The Cool Globes: Hot Ideas for a Cooler Planet exhibit, featuring more than 30 larger-than-life globes that depict simple solutions to global warming, has opened at the United States Botanic Garden (USBG).

The globes, designed by local, national and international artists, will be on display May 23 - October 13, 2008 as part of the USBG's "One Planet-Ours!" exhibition on sustainability.

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June 5, 2008

Best Selling Pickups in the United States for May 2008

Pickup truck sales dropped 36.1% in the U.S. in May, and as they say, that's gonna' leave a mark.

For the year to date pickup sales are down 21%, with only the Toyota Tundra selling more than last year [8.5%].

Even with plant idlings and closings, it's becoming pretty obvious there is overcapacity in the market, and we wouldn't be surprised if one of the manufacturers pulls out or shuts down pickup truck production altogether.

Best selling pickups trucks for May 2008:

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Top Selling Minivans in the Unites States for May 2008

The minivan segment saw sales drop 16.6% in May, with Chrysler holding on to two of the top three spots, thanks in part to their gas rebate plan.

Of particular note was the 80% drop in Hyundai Entourage sales, that one can only hope was due to a supply problem -- point being, this is a bad time to be getting into the minivan business, as Volkswagen is about to find out.

The top 8 best selling minivans in the United States for May 2008:

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Toyota and Lexus Garner Key Awards In J.D. Power Quality Study

Torrance, CA -- Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc., and Toyota Engineering and Manufacturing, North America (TEMA) today garnered key awards in the 2008 J. D. Power and Associates Initial Quality StudySM, announced at a press conference in Detroit.

Toyota improved by eight problems per 100 (PP100) and two ranking positions over last year. Tied for fourth place among all industry nameplates, Toyota was the best-performing full-line nameplate and best- performing non-premium nameplate in the 2008 IQS.

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Report: Initial Auto Quality Improves Considerably

WESTLAKE VILLAGE, Calif. -- Initial quality in the automotive industry has improved significantly in 2008, with substantial gains demonstrated by nearly three-fourths of the 36 ranked nameplates, according to the J.D. Power and Associates 2008 Initial Quality Study (IQS) released today.

Overall quality improves to 118 problems per 100 vehicles (PP100) in 2008, down from 125 PP100 in 2007.

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Report: Mercedes Plant Receives Award for Top Quality

LONDON -- The Mercedes-Benz Sindelfingen, Germany, plant receives the Platinum Plant Quality Award, while two other German plants also receive awards, according to the J.D. Power and Associates 2008 U.S. Initial Quality Study(SM) (IQS) released today.

The Mercedes-Benz assembly plant in Sindelfingen, Germany, receives the Platinum Plant Quality Award for producing vehicles yielding the fewest defects and malfunctions.

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June 4, 2008

Top Selling Crossovers in the United States for May 2008

With total SUV sales down 19.5% in May, not even the crossover segment was able to escape unscathed -- the smaller ute/station wagon category was also down 5%, as consumers decided they didn't even want mini-SUVs over more fuel efficient cars.

Besides the usual suspects a couple vehicles did well in consumers' quest for smaller wagons, including the Dodge Journey, Nissan Rogue and Subaru Forester. Also of note is that GM placed both the GMC Acadia and Saturn Vue in the top 15, which is good news for that new platform, and for the parent company that suffered a big blow for the month.

After the jump, the top 15 best selling crossovers for May 2008:

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Top Ten Best Selling Cars in the United States for May 2008

American consumers voted with their wallets at car dealerships in May, and overwhelmingly chose fuel efficient cars over trucks and SUVs, by the highest margin in recent history. Nearly 60% of vehicles bought were cars, while bigger vehicles dropped to 43% of purchases.

There was big news in the battle for the best selling car, as the Honda Civic pulled in front of Toyota's Camry and Corolla, with the Nissan Altima taking its usual fifth spot behind the Honda Accord.

But even the domestics did well in this new reality environment, as Chevy posted three best sellers to the top ten, and Ford had two, with the Focus that has been doing well, but also with the Fusion sedan that had its best sales month ever.

Top Ten Best Selling Car in the United States for May 2008:

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June 3, 2008

Toyota Reports May Sales Down 7.9%

TORRANCE, Calif. -- Toyota today reported May sales of 257,404 vehicles, a decrease of 7.9 percent from last May, on a daily selling rate basis.

"The all-new Corolla really found its stride this month," said TMS President Jim Lentz. "Launched amid soaring fuel prices and economic uncertainty, Corolla strikes a sweet spot for buyers seeking refinement in addition to fuel efficiency and affordability."

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Hyundai Elantra Tops Toyota Corolla in Small Sedan Test

YONKERS, N.Y. -- After testing a group of compacts and subcompacts, Consumer Reports judged the Hyundai Elantra SE best with an "Excellent" overall road test score. But three other compact cars, Subaru Impreza, Toyota Corolla and Ford Focus, also achieved "Very Good" ratings in a report on gas-saving sedans published in the July issue.

The Corolla achieved a very impressive 32 mpg overall in Consumer Reports' real-world fuel economy tests. That's among the best gas mileage CR has seen in a conventional gasoline-powered car with an automatic transmission. Only the smaller Honda Fit (32 mpg) and Toyota Yaris (33 mpg) subcompacts do as well or better.

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May 31, 2008

Toyota may build Prius in the United States

Toyota may be considering building the Prius hybrid at a California plant the company shares with General Motors, according to a published report in the Tokyo Shimbun.

The Tokyo Shimbun said major parts for the Prius would be shipped to the NUMMI plant in Fremont, California, where the vehicle would be assembled. Set up in 1984, NUMMI, or New United Motor Manufacturing Inc., produces the Corolla Matrix and Pontiac Vibe.

May 30, 2008

Toyota Supports Latino Education

Torrance, CA -- Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., a proud supporter of the TELACU Education Foundation, is serving as presenting sponsor of the organization's annual scholarship awards dinner for the second consecutive year.

This important partnership is part of Toyota's commitment to community, diversity, education, environmental programs and safety.

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May 29, 2008

Cadillac Tops 2008 Vehicle Satisfaction Awards

TUSTIN, Calif. -- A study released today by noted automotive consulting firm AutoPacific, Inc. summarizes the results of its 2008 model year vehicle satisfaction research. AutoPacific's Vehicle Satisfaction Award (VSA) is an industry benchmark for objectively measuring how satisfied an owner is with their new passenger car or light truck.

In a year that promises to be the toughest in a decade, owner-based awards like AutoPacific's Vehicle Satisfaction Award will help customers make their purchase decisions.

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May 28, 2008

Toyota Offers Low APR on Used Tundra and Sequoia

Toyota has announced a 2.9% APR offer on Certified Used Tundra pickups and Sequoia SUVs, through July 31, 2008. Loan terms up to 66 months are available.

May 27, 2008

Video: 78 miles an hour in a bass boat

When we traveled to the 2008 Bassmaster Classic to get a look at Toyota's Bass fishing sponsorship activities, we got the chance to go on a bass boat to watch the fisherman close up.

Even though it was late February it was pretty warm out, and thought people were making fun of the city boy when they told us to wear extra jackets and were even offered a full face motorcycle helmet to wear. Why would we need all that stuff, just to look silly?

The answer came in part to another question -- we were also wondering why these bass boats had such big engines. Our first, incorrect, assumption, was that it was a boys and their toys thing.

The answer, though, is that competitive bass fishing often occurs on large bodies of water, and given time constraints, the fishermen have to be able to get from one spot to another in a hurry. Like 78 miles an hour kind of a hurry.

So it turns out that those big engines do go real fast, and at top speed in an open boat, it also gets real cold in a hurry. And the wind coming at your face at that speed could be painful -- if we weren't wearing that full face helmet.

There was a little bit of funnin' at my expense when our guide opened the throttle, but we were like Ricky Bobby, screaming [inside the mask], "I wanna go fast!"

After the jump: Links to stories from the Bassmaster Classic.

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Toyota to issue own credit card

Toyota has announced plans to introduce a Toyota-branded credit card in the fall of 2009. The card will have a bonus plan, that lets consumers accrue points through purchases, which can in turn be swapped for discounts on car purchases or for parts and maintenance.

May 24, 2008

Toyota Announces One-Year Diversity Apprenticeship

Torrance, CA -- Toyota Motor Sales, Inc. (TMS) and Michael Waltrip Racing (MWR) have joined forces to offer a one-year apprenticeship to a deserving diversity graduate of Toyota's Technician Training and Education Network (T-TEN) program.

The selected diversity candidate will be relocated to North Carolina and placed in a technical position within the MWR organization, directly involved with the teams' NASCAR participation.

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May 21, 2008

Toyota Prius -- a brand unto itself

Consider Toyota's happy problem: much like the Xerox brand became synonymous with photocopying, the Prius now equals "hybrid" in consumers' minds.

The Prius is so successful as a stand alone vehicle that Toyota is having a hard time gaining traction for their preferred brand name, Hybrid Synergy Drive, which is how they market their Camry and Highlander hybrid models.

This happy problem may lead Toyota to create new vehicles under a Prius model line, such as a wagon or two door model, according to Jim Lentz, the company's president of U.S. operations. In an Automotive News interview, Lentz said Toyota may consider new Prius models after 2010, when the existing car is due for a redesign.

This means Prius might take off as a sub-brand the way Scion has, especially if gas prices stay high enough to cement Americans' move into smaller, more fuel-efficient vehicles. But the Scion brand was a deliberate business move to create a new product line, whereas the Prius has taken on a life of its own -- not a bad problem to have.

Toyota Names Erik Kirkhorn State Government Affairs Director

Washington, DC -- Erik Kirkhorn has been named director of State Government Affairs for Toyota Motor North America, it was announced today.

"Erik's experience and knowledge on many of the policy issues at the state level make him an ideal choice to direct our activities," said Josephine Cooper, Toyota's group vice president of Government and Regulatory Affairs.

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May 15, 2008

Worldwide Prius Sales Top 1 Million Mark

Tokyo -- Toyota announced today that worldwide cumulative sales of the Toyota Prius—the world's first mass-produced gasoline/electric hybrid vehicle—have passed the 1 million mark, with approximately 1,028,000 units sold as of the end of April this year.

Currently, Prius sales are robust in more than 40 countries and regions, particularly in Japan and North America. Nearly 60%, or 591,600 Priuses have been sold in North America.

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May 13, 2008

Toyota Awards Huron Watershed $100,000 for Bioreserve Project

Ann Arbor, MI -- The Huron River Watershed Council (HRWC) is announcing major support from Toyota Motor North America, Inc. and the Toyota Technical Center (TTC) in the amount of $100,000 for the Bioreserve Project.

Building on the fundraising efforts made through Liz Swims the Huron, HRWC has secured a total of $230,500 towards the project total of $250,000, which include; $43,000 in donations from individuals to Liz Swims The Huron; $5,000 from Keybank; $65,000 from Community Foundation of SE Michigan; $7,500 from Visteon; $7,000 from Speckhard-Knight Charitable Foundation and $3,000 from TCF Bank.

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May 12, 2008

2008 Fuel Economy Guide Available for Download

The EPA has issued a comprehensive PDF guide to fuel economy of all 2008 vehicles, which you can download by right-clicking here.

In today's gas market, buyers are more sensitive than ever about buying cars that get good mileage, and more important, they want the government ratings to be as accurate as possible -- nobody wants to buy a vehicle that gets 10% worse mileage in the real world than the sticker rating.

To address this situation, the EPA has started using an updated test to assign more accurate MPG ratings to new vehicles, and you can learn about that by watching the video in this post.

May 10, 2008

Toyota Awards $1 Million in Scholarships to 100 High School Seniors

SAN ANTONIO -- Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc., (TMS) rewarded 100 high school seniors with $1 million in college scholarships for their commitment to education and community service at an awards banquet tonight.

The winners, who make up the 12th class of Toyota Community Scholars, were chosen from a pool of more than 8,000 students nationwide nominated by their schools. To be eligible, students must be proven leaders both in the classroom and in their communities.

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May 9, 2008

One million hybrids on American roads

In December 2007, an auto dealership employee somewhere in America handed a new owner the keys to the one millionth hybrid vehicle sold in this country. In that month, industry sales of 30,892 hybrids brought the cumulative total to 1,012,442 units.

This event occurred a month after Toyota recorded the sale of its 500,000th hybrid in the United States, and only a few months after Toyota Motor Corporation reached the one-million-unit mark in global production of hybrid vehicles.

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Toyota Mobile Hybrid Experience Events

Toyota's traveling display and demonstration of environmentally preferable transportation will be on the road in 20 states between May and September.

It will visit events ranging from the Albany Tulip Festival to the Boston Harborfest, and from the International Festival of Arts & Ideas in New Haven to the Minnesota State Fair.

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Toyota Sponsors Health and Endurance Events

Toyota participates as sponsor or co-sponsor of triathlons and swimming, running and cycling events. Hybrid Synergy Drive, which is at the heart of all Toyota hybrid vehicles and exemplifies health, well-being and environmental awareness, is associated with the company's participation in all these endurance events.

Swimming events include the Mutual of Omaha Swimvitational, which is part of the Toyota Grand Prix Series, and the 2008 U.S. Olympic Swim Trials.

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May 8, 2008

Toyota Announces Year-End Financial Results

Tokyo - Toyota Motor Corporation (TMC) today announced operating results for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2008.

On a consolidated basis, net revenues for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2008 totaled 26.29 trillion yen, an increase of 9.8 percent compared to the last fiscal year. Operating income increased 1.4 percent to 2.27 trillion yen, and income before income tax, minority interest and equity in earnings of affiliated companies was 2.44 trillion yen. Net income increased 4.5 percent to 1.72 trillion yen. All of these figures marked record results.

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Toyota announces price increase for 2008 Highlander

TORRANCE, Calif. -- Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc., announced new manufacturer's suggested retail prices (MSRP) for the 2008 Highlander, effective mid- to late May 2008.

The Highlander midsize SUV gas model posts a price increase of $200, or 0.7 percent, and will carry a new base MSRP of $27,500; and the hybrid model posts an increase of $500, or 1.3 percent, and will have a new base MSRP of $34,200.

Toyota MSRPs do not include a delivery, processing and handling (DPH) fee of $660 for passenger cars and $685 for light trucks. DPH fee for vehicles distributed by Southeast Toyota (SET) and Gulf States Toyota (GST) may vary.

Toyota announces price increase for 2008 Tundra

TORRANCE, Calif. -- Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc., announced new manufacturer's suggested retail prices (MSRP) for the 2008 Tundra, effective mid- to late May 2008.

In the full-size truck category, the 2008 Tundra increases by $100 and will carry a new base price of $22,390, an increase of 0.3 percent. Pricing for 2008 Sienna increases by $100, or 0.4 percent, and will have a new base MSRP of $24,440.

Toyota announces price increase for 2008 Land Cruiser

TORRANCE, Calif. -- Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc., announced new manufacturer's suggested retail prices (MSRP) for the 2008 Land Cruiser, effective mid- to late May 2008.

MSRP increases by $900, or 1.4 percent, for the all-new 2008 Toyota Land Cruiser, with a new base price of $64,100.

Toyota announces price increase for 2008 4Runner

TORRANCE, Calif. -- Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc., announced new manufacturer's suggested retail prices (MSRP) for the 2008 4Runner, effective mid- to late May 2008.

The 2008 4Runner carries a new starting MSRP of $28,415, which represents an increase of 1.3 percent, or $400.

Toyota announces price increase for 2008 FJ Cruiser

TORRANCE, Calif. -- Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc., announced new manufacturer's suggested retail prices (MSRP) for the 2008 FJ Cruiser, effective mid- to late May 2008.

The 2008 FJ Cruiser MSRP increases by $500, or 2.1 percent, with a new base MSRP of $23,045.

Toyota announces price increase for 2008 RAV4

TORRANCE, Calif. -- Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc., announced new manufacturer's suggested retail prices (MSRP) for the 2008 RAV4, effective mid- to late May 2008.

The 2008 RAV4 compact SUV price increases by $250, or 1.1 percent, and will receive a new base MSRP of $21,500.

Toyota announces price increase for 2009 Camry

TORRANCE, Calif. -- Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc., announced new manufacturer's suggested retail prices (MSRP) for the 2009 Camry, effective mid- to late May 2008.

The only 2009 model year Toyota vehicle to receive a price adjustment is the Toyota Camry. The gas model increases $200 or 0.9 percent and carries a new base MSRP of $18,920. The hybrid model, which was introduced as a 2007 model in late 2006, increases by $300 or 1.1 percent and carries a new base MSRP of $25,650.

Toyota announces price increase for 2008 Avalon

TORRANCE, Calif. -- Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc., announced new manufacturer's suggested retail prices (MSRP) for the 2008 Avalon, effective mid- to late May 2008.

The 2008 Avalon will post a new base MSRP of $27,325, an increase of $250, or 0.8 percent.

Toyota announces price increase for 2008 Camry Solara

TORRANCE, Calif. -- Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc., announced new manufacturer's suggested retail prices (MSRP) for the 2008 Camry Solara, effective mid- to late May 2008.

The 2008 Camry Solara coupe and Solara convertible increase by $250 or 0.9 percent and gain new base MSRPs of $20,180 and $27,440, respectively.

Toyota announces price increase for 2008 Yaris

TORRANCE, Calif. -- Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc., announced new manufacturer's suggested retail prices (MSRP) for the 2008 Yaris, effective mid- to late May 2008.

The base MSRP for 2008 Yaris sedan will receive a new price of $12,425, an increase of $200, or 1.6 percent. The 2008 Yaris liftback will list a new base MSRP of $11,550, an increase of $200, or 1.7 percent. The MSRP for the 2008 Prius will carry a new base price of $21,500, an increase of $400, or 1.8 percent.

May 6, 2008

Toyota Announces Million Dollar Donation to Everglades National Park

HOMESTEAD, Fla. -- Toyota today announced a contribution of more than $1 million dollars and five vehicles to Everglades National Park to support environmental education programs.

The donation will benefit more than 10,000 students annually via a number of initiatives including day program field trips and camping trips for grade school students; the K-12 Miccosukee Indian School program; in-park teacher workshops for day and camping programs; in-park special programs for other school groups and student organizations; and in-school teacher workshops.

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Volkswagen Rabbit Ranked Best in Test of Affordable Hatchbacks

YONKERS, N.Y. -- The Volkswagen Rabbit emerged as Consumer Reports' top-rated affordable hatchback following tests of six vehicles for the June issue. The Rabbit outpointed CR's previously top-rated hatchback, the Mazda3.

"With agile handling and a versatile, well-finished interior, the Rabbit feels solid and is a pleasant car to drive," said David Champion, senior director of Consumer Reports' Auto Test Center in East Haddam, Connecticut. "The Rabbit has commendable fit and finish, a versatile interior, and agile handling."

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May 4, 2008

Top twenty best selling small cars for April 2008

Americans rediscovered cars in April 2008, with small cars in particular accounting for nearly one in five of all vehicles sold in an otherwise down month.

Toyota had four vehicles in the top twenty, General Motors had three; Nissan, Hyundai and Kia had two apiece. And Dodge has a hit with the Caliber, which made the list at number 9.

With people paying nearly $4 per gallon of gas nationwide, it appears that the free market has achieved what environmentalists have been clamoring about for years -- to conserve fuel by buying smaller vehicles.

The top twenty best selling small cars for April 2008:

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Top ten best selling crossovers for April 2008

Overall, pickups and SUV sales were down 17.4% in April and are down 13.5% for the year to date. The one bright spot is the crossover and small wagon category, which was down 0.4% for the month but has edge up 1.9% for the year.

In general, crossover utility vehicles are built on car platforms, while traditional SUVs are built on truck frames. CUVs are smaller, lighter and get better gas mileage than big SUVs -- one way to think of them is that they are really modern station wagons, but shorter and with a higher profile.

This months list of the top ten selling crossovers features three vehicles from General Motors, and two each from Ford and Toyota. Also of note, the new Nissan Rogue made the list at number ten.

The top ten best selling crossovers for April 2008:

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Top ten best selling cars for April 2008

With gas prices at record highs in the U.S., consumers are buying cars in greater percentage than light trucks and SUVs, a reversal of a long-term trend.

In April, 52.6% of vehicles sold were cars, a gain of 5.2% over the same month last year.

Of particular note is that both General Motors and Toyota both notched three cars apiece in the top ten.

The top ten best selling cars for April 2008:

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Toyota recalls 90,000 Highlander SUVs

Toyota Motor Corp. plans to recall about 90,000 Highlander sport utility vehicles in the United States.

The Japanese automaker wants to fix a problem that could prevent the seat belt in a third-row seat from securing a rear-facing child seat.

Toyota spokesman Bill Kwong said Friday the company had issued a stop sale of the 2008 Highlander SUV and hybrid version with third-row seats to retrofit changes to the seat belt.

May 2, 2008

Toyota Reports April Sales Down 4.5%

TORRANCE, Calif. -- Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc., today reported April sales of 217,700 vehicles, a decrease of 4.5 percent from last April.

"Smaller vehicles are going over big," said TMS President Jim Lentz. "With oil prices at record levels, compact cars and hybrids continue to lead the way."

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May 1, 2008

Wisconsin Toyota Dealers Offer Brewers Fans a Shot at Miller Park

MILWAUKEE -- Dozens of lucky Brewers fans will see their team play in unparalleled comfort and with an unsurpassed view from the Tundra Territory section in Miller Park -- thanks to the ball club's new partnership with Wisconsin Toyota Dealers.

Between now and July 11, fans can visit their local Wisconsin Toyota dealer to enter a drawing to win a 4-pack of tickets to a Brewers game in the month of July, with seating in the new section.

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April 29, 2008

High Tech Spark Plugs Adds 3 MPG to Prius Economy

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. -- Recent tests performed at Enerpulse, Inc. demonstrate that its newly released product, Pulstar improved fuel economy on 2005 and 2007 Toyota Prius hybrid vehicles by 6% - 8%, or approximately 3 miles per gallon.

These results were on vehicles that already get over 50 miles per gallon of gasoline. In addition to the impressive fuel economy improvements in the Toyota Prius, an acceleration test (from 40 to 80 miles per hour) was conducted, which resulted in improved acceleration of 5% as compared to the factory-installed spark plugs.

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April 28, 2008

Toyota Announces $5 Million Grant To National Park Organizations

Washington, D.C. -- Toyota today announced a $5 million contribution in support of five National Parks and the National Park Foundation to enhance environmental leadership and educational programs at parks around the country. The company also will donate 23 vehicles to the National Parks.

Some of the funds may be used by the local fundraising partners such as Everglades National Parks for matching Federal funds as part of the National Park Centennial Challenge program highlighting the 100th anniversary of the National Park Service in 2016.

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April 25, 2008

Toyota joins effort to plant a million trees in NYC

New York, NY -- MillionTreesNYC, a public-private partnership between the New York City Department of Parks & Recreation and New York Restoration Project (NYRP) to plant and care for one million new trees in New York City by 2017 today announced a new supporter in its mission to improve New York City's environment.

Toyota has signed a three-year $1.4 million sponsorship with MillionTreesNYC that will support tree planting, public education and community outreach activities - all aimed at getting every New Yorker involved in tree planting and stewardship activities.

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Toyota Launches Literacy Program in Oakland

Oakland, CA -- Toyota today announced that four Oakland elementary schools will be among the newest sites for its successful Toyota Family Literacy Program (TFLP).

TFLP - the first nationwide program of its kind to focus on the needs of Hispanic and other immigrant families - is coordinated by the National Center for Family Literacy (NCFL), the country's leading advocate for family literacy.

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April 22, 2008

Lithia Toyota of Abilene Earns Company President’s Award

ABILENE, Texas -- Lithia Toyota of Abilene, TX has won Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc.’s prestigious President’s Award for outstanding sales and service. This is the 1ST time the dealership has won this coveted award.

The President’s Award pays homage to Toyota dealerships throughout the U.S. that achieve high standards of performance in all facets of the automotive dealer profession, including vehicle and parts sales, service and customer satisfaction.

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Lithia Toyota of Medford Earns Prestigious President’s Award

MEDFORD, Ore. -- Lithia Toyota of Medford, OR has won Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc.’s prestigious President’s Award for outstanding sales and service. This is the 13th time the dealership has won this coveted award.

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April 21, 2008

Hybrid Vehicle Registrations Leap 38%

SOUTHFIELD, Mich. -- Nationwide registrations for new hybrid vehicles rose to 350,289 registrations in 2007 - a 38 percent increase from 2006, according to R. L. Polk & Co. The Toyota Prius continued to lead the segment with 179,178 total new registrations - 51.2 percent of hybrid market share.

"Auto buyers are benefiting from new hybrid launches, and fleecing of old models that didn't work. There is a lot of excitement being generated within the industry as manufacturers adjust plans to adapt to consumer demand," said Lonnie Miller, director of Industry Analysis at Polk.

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April 20, 2008

ESPN Pit Reporter Wins 2008 Toyota Pro/Celebrity Race

LONG BEACH, Calif. -- It was billed as "the fast and the famous" and it lived up to expectations, as ESPN pit reporter Jamie Little held off NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series Champion Mike Skinner by .324 seconds in race-modified Scion tCs to take the checkered flag first in the 32nd Annual Toyota Pro/Celebrity Race. Skinner is a repeat winner in the Pro Category.

"When you interview a winning driver after the race, they always tell you how they just try to get through that last lap," gushed Little. "Well, now I know exactly what they're talking about."

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April 18, 2008

Lexus Announces Environmental Challenge Winning Projects

GRAND PRIZE WINNERS

"The Dream Team" - W.R. Farrington High School, Honolulu, Hawaii:
This team of eight students focused on educating people around the world about the benefits of renewable energy sources such as wind turbines, solar panels, fuel cells, and hydropower.

Continue reading "Lexus Announces Environmental Challenge Winning Projects"

Lexus Awards More Than $1 Million in Grants and Scholarships

Torrance, CA -- Student teams in Jersey City, N.J., and Honolulu, Hawaii, will be celebrating this Earth Day. Not only have they done their part to protect the planet, they've also emerged as the two $75,000 grand-prize winners in the Lexus Environmental Challenge, a national competition designed by Lexus and Scholastic to educate and empower teens to think big about possible solutions that could make a positive impact on the environment.

Continue reading "Lexus Awards More Than $1 Million in Grants and Scholarships"

April 17, 2008

Lexus Puts Spectators Behind the Wheel of an IS-F at the Toyota Grand Prix

TORRANCE, Calif. -- While professional race car drivers display their skills on the famed Toyota Grand Prix of Long Beach (TGPLB) street circuit, spectators can test their high-speed driving talents without even wearing a helmet.

Lexus will offer race fans attending this year's TGPLB (April 17-20) the opportunity to get behind the wheel of the all-new Lexus IS F high-performance sport sedan while experiencing Sony's Gran Turismo(TM) 5 Prologue. Released on April 15, Gran Turismo 5 Prologue is Sony Computer Entertainment America's newest driving simulator for PLAYSTATION3.

Continue reading "Lexus Puts Spectators Behind the Wheel of an IS-F at the Toyota Grand Prix"

April 15, 2008

Toyota Wins 2008 Energy Star Sustained Excellence Award

Erlanger, KY -- The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has awarded Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing North America, Inc., with a 2008 ENERGY STAR Sustained Excellence Award in recognition of its continued leadership in protecting our environment through energy efficiency.

TEMA's accomplishments were recognized at an awards ceremony in Washington, D.C. on April 1, 2008.

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Ken Gushi's Scion Reaches Top 16 At First Formula Drift Appearance

Torrance, CA -- In their first race together, the RS*R Scion tC drift car and driver Ken Gushi overcame early mechanical problems to make the Top 16 in Formula DRIFT's Streets of Long Beach competition on April 12. Scion was the first import original equipment manufacturer (OEM) to make the Top 16 in its first Formula DRIFT event.

During practice on April 11, Gushi and the RS*R Scion tC were faced with a broken axle which the RS*R team quickly remedied to get the drift car back on the track for afternoon runs.

Continue reading "Ken Gushi's Scion Reaches Top 16 At First Formula Drift Appearance"

April 11, 2008

Scion Announces 2009 Prices For tC

Torrance, CA -- Scion announced manufacturer's suggested retail prices (MSRP) today for the 2009 model year tC sports coupe. The tC will arrive at dealerships in May.

The sporty 2009 tC also carries over with one change, updated seat fabric. Prices for both the automatic and manual transmission remain the same as the 2008 models.

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Scion Announces 2009 Prices For xB

Torrance, CA -- Scion announced manufacturer's suggested retail prices (MSRP) today for the 2009 model year xB urban utility vehicle. The xB will arrive at dealerships later this month.

After a major model change in 2008, the xB carries over with only a change in exterior color. Stingray Metallic replaces Nautical Blue Metallic.

Continue reading "Scion Announces 2009 Prices For xB"

LeaseTrader Releases Its Top-10 Index for March

MIAMI -- LeaseTrader.com, the company that helps consumers with car lease transfers, announces its monthly Index for March, with the BMW 3 Series again topping the list of America's most preferred leased vehicle.

The BMW 3 Series continues to top the LeaseTrader.com Index mostly because of its combination of performance, price and affordability.

Continue reading "LeaseTrader Releases Its Top-10 Index for March"

April 10, 2008

Toyota Updates Showroom at Memphis Ball Park

MEMPHIS, Tenn. -- Toyota will update its home base this season at the Memphis Redbirds' AutoZone Park: a redesigned three-car showroom packed with interactivity for the 2008 baseball season.

The showroom in the Toyota Center will offer fans the bonus of seeing the automakers' all-new products and advanced automotive technology up close before, during, and after games. Different cars, trucks or SUVs are on display every month.

Continue reading "Toyota Updates Showroom at Memphis Ball Park"

Toyota Announces Safety Recall on Select '03 and '04 Corolla and Matrix

Torrance, CA -- Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc., will launch a safety recall with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) involving approximately 539,500 Corolla and Matrix vehicles sold in the U.S.

On certain 2003 and 2004 model year Corolla and Matrix vehicles equipped with power windows, the driver and front passenger door glass bolts may loosen and come off, causing the door glass to separate from the window regulator. Vehicles that are equipped with manual windows are not involved in this campaign.

Continue reading "Toyota Announces Safety Recall on Select '03 and '04 Corolla and Matrix"

Eagle Ottawa Receives Top Award From Toyota

AUBURN HILLS, Mich. -- Eagle Ottawa, the world's largest supplier of automotive leather, received a coveted Excellent Value Improvement Award from Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing North America, Inc. (TEMA) at the company's Annual Supplier Business Meeting and Awards Ceremony held in Covington, Kentucky on March 4.

The awards recognize those suppliers who exceeded the company's expectations in the following areas: Launch Performance, Technology, Supplier Diversity, Value Improvement and Quality.

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April 6, 2008

Toyota Lease Deals For April

Toyota is offering the following lease deals for April:

2009 Toyota Corolla Lease -- $169 per month for 36 months with $1,699 due at lease signing.

2009 Toyota Matrix Lease -- $189 per month for 36 months with $2,199 due at lease signing.

Continue reading "Toyota Lease Deals For April"

April 5, 2008

April Toyota Rebates Available at CurrentAutoRebates.com

Toyota is offering up to a $1,500 rebate or 0%-2.9% financing on the 4Runner SUV, up to a $2,750 rebate or 0% financing on the Tundra pickup and a $500 rebate or low APR financing on the Camry.

Programs end 4/30/08.

If you would like to research current auto rebates for all make and models for sale in the United States, check out CurrentAutoRebates.com, a fabulous service that allows you to check up on all rebate programs through a handy PDF report. The service is free and available now!

April 3, 2008

Chrysler Statement on Jim Press' Toyota Slap

Editor's note: Jim Press said when he was at Toyota, "the Japanese government paid for 100% of the development of the battery and hybrid system that went into the Toyota Prius." That got Toyota's panties in a bunch. What follows is Chrysler's backpedaling:

There have been several news reports today concerning statements made by Chrysler LLC Vice Chairman and President Jim Press on battery development for hybrid vehicles. First of all, Press was not speaking negatively of Toyota.

In a recent interview, he referenced the close cooperation between the Japanese government and Japanese industry. He said the Japanese government strongly supported R & D (research and development) investment in battery development, and the Prius and other Japanese models benefited from that investment in industry.

Continue reading "Chrysler Statement on Jim Press' Toyota Slap"

April 1, 2008

Toyota Reports March Sales Down 3.4%

TORRANCE, Calif. -- Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc., today reported March sales of 217,730 vehicles, a decrease of 3.4 percent from last March.

The Toyota Division posted March sales of 192,791, a decrease of 2.9 percent from last March. The Lexus Division reported March sales of 24,939 units, a decrease of 6.9 percent from the year-ago month.

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Toyota Establishes Research Institute in North America

Ann Arbor, Michigan -- Toyota Technical Center a division of Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing North America, Inc., today announced the establishment of the Toyota Research Institute of North America (TRI-NA).

Toyota plans to spend $100 million during the next four years on advanced research activity in North America and will utilize existing facility space at the Toyota Technical Center Ann Arbor campus.

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Toyota Awards $1.48 Million to National 4-H Council

Chevy Chase, MD -- In an effort to support over 1.3 million kids participating in environmental science programs nationwide, Toyota today presented National 4-H Council with a $1.48 million grant for 4-H's strong science, engineering and technology programming.

Presented this morning during the 2008 National 4-H Conference, the grant will help 4-H introduce Exploring Your Environment, a new multi-tiered environmental curriculum specifically focusing on promoting the organization's water conservation programs.

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March 31, 2008

Toyota Gives $550,000 to Science Classrooms Nationwide

TORRANCE, Calif. -- Toyota Motor Sales U.S.A., Inc. recognized 78 science teachers from across the country this weekend with $550,000 in grants via the Toyota TAPESTRY: Grants for Science Teachers program at the National Science Teachers Association (NSTA) National Conference on Science Education in Boston, Mass.

Continue reading "Toyota Gives $550,000 to Science Classrooms Nationwide"

Continental Receives Top Award from Toyota

AUBURN HILLS, Mich. -- Continental, a supplier of advanced automotive components, received an Excellence Award in the area of Supplier Diversity from Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing North America, Inc. (TEMA) at the company's Annual Supplier Business Meeting and Awards Ceremony held in recently Covington, Kentucky.

This marks the fifth consecutive year that Continental has received this award.

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March 30, 2008

2009 Toyota Venza

Designed specifically for the U.S. market, the 2009 Toyota Venza was designed to combine the styling of a sedan with the utility and heightened ride of an SUV.

The Venza will feature a 268 horsepower, 3.5 liter V6 engine or a 2.7 liter four cylinder, for those that want increased fuel efficiency.

Both power plants will be combined with a six-speed sequential shit automatic transmission.

Goodyear Tires Selected for 2009 Toyota Corolla and Matrix

AKRON, Ohio -- A variety of tires from The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company have been selected as original equipment fitments for several models of the popular Toyota Corolla and Matrix.

The 2009 Corolla and Matrix will come standard with the following Goodyear tires, depending on the specific vehicle model: P195/65R15 Eagle LS-2; P205/55R16 Eagle RS-A; P215/45R17 Eagle RS-A; and P215/45R18 Eagle F1 All Season.

Continue reading "Goodyear Tires Selected for 2009 Toyota Corolla and Matrix"

March 27, 2008

Kentucky High School Teachers Get Toyota Factory Tour

WASHINGTON -- The Japan Automobile Manufacturers Association (JAMA) will sponsor the first Green design workshop tomorrow for Kentucky high school teachers at Toyota Motor Manufacturing in Georgetown, Kentucky.

The one day meeting and auto factory tour is designed to give teachers the tools to encourage innovative student thinking about solutions to community and global environmental challenges.

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March 26, 2008

Toyota Announces Five-Year Alliance With Audubon Society

NEW YORK -- The National Audubon Society and Toyota today launched TogetherGreen, a nationwide Audubon program to fund conservation projects, train environmental leaders, and offer volunteer opportunities to significantly benefit the environment.

A $20 million Toyota grant -- the largest Audubon has received in its 103-year history -- will fund TogetherGreen for five years, enabling Audubon to expand the scope and reach of its internationally-known conservation programs.

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March 24, 2008

2009 Toyota Yaris

When it was introduced to the U.S. in 2007, the Toyota Yaris was coming off a successful run in Europe and Asia, and the vehicle has just been redesigned for the 2009 model year, after proving that Americans will buy super small cars.

Rising gas prices have helped vehicles like the Yaris gain popularity, as it gets 29 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway. Thanks to its affordable entry level sticker of only $12,950, the Yaris is proving popular with younger folks and first-time car buyers.

March 23, 2008

Oddsmaker Picks Drew Lachey, Jamie Little as Toyota Celebrity Race Favorites

LONG BEACH, Calif. -- Drew Lachey, the smooth- stepping second-season winner of Dancing With the Stars, and NASCAR pit reporter Jamie Little are among Las Vegas gaming expert Anthony Curtis' celebrity picks to give the pros some heat in the Toyota Pro/Celebrity Race on Saturday, April 19, part of the 34th annual Toyota Grand Prix of Long Beach.

Curtis has sized-up how the stars of film, television and sports will fare in this historic, 10-lap race for charity, which is conducted in race-ready Scion tCs on a 1.97-mile street circuit through the downtown streets of Long Beach in Southern California.

Continue reading "Oddsmaker Picks Drew Lachey, Jamie Little as Toyota Celebrity Race Favorites"

March 21, 2008

Toyota Creates Arbor Day Facebook App

Nebraska City, Neb.– The Arbor Day Foundation and Toyota announced today that they have partnered to create a new Facebook application called Tree Planter. With the Tree Planter application, users can plant real trees in forests across the country - without even leaving their computer.

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March 19, 2008

Scion Hako Coupe to Debut in New York

Torrance, CA -- Scion will unveil an all-new concept vehicle, the Hako Coupe, at the 2008 New York International Auto Show.

The sporty interpretation of the box concept was developed by Tokyo Design Division which studied global, youth-inspired trends.

Continue reading "Scion Hako Coupe to Debut in New York"

March 18, 2008

Local Dignitaries, Toyota ExecsTo Attend Dedication of New Toyota/Scion Dealership

CRYSTAL LAKE, Ill. -- A number of local dignitaries and Toyota executives will be in attendance Wednesday, March 19 for the formal dedication of Pauly Toyota/Scion, Chicagoland's newest Toyota dealership.

The 51,491-square-foot dealership is located near the intersection of Route 31 and Rakow Road, in picturesque Crystal Lake. Principal Owner Mike Pauly constructed the state-of-the-art facility to replace his 15-year-old dealership, located a mere two miles away.

Continue reading "Local Dignitaries, Toyota ExecsTo Attend Dedication of New Toyota/Scion Dealership"

Corvette Still #1 Most Requested Vehicles to Lease

CINCINNATI -- Automobile Consumer Services, Inc. (ACS), has released a list of the top 10 most requested vehicles from its popular auto leasing website www.LeaseCompare.com.

Information was collected during the second half of 2007 from more than two million lease quote requests.

Continue reading "Corvette Still #1 Most Requested Vehicles to Lease"

March 11, 2008

Toyota Celebrity Race Draws the Fast and the Famous

LONG BEACH, Calif. -- An eclectic roster of stars of film, television and sports will strap into brand new race-ready Scion tCs to vie for the checkered flag in the world's longest-running, most successful celebrity racing event: the Toyota Pro/Celebrity Race on Saturday, April 19, part of the 34th annual Toyota Grand Prix of Long Beach.

The field of 18 is revved up for competition in this historic, 10-lap race for charity on a 1.97-mile street circuit through the downtown streets of Long Beach in Southern California.

Continue reading "Toyota Celebrity Race Draws the Fast and the Famous"

March 9, 2008

March Toyota Rebates Available at CurrentAutoRebates.com

Toyota is offering up to a $2,500 rebate or 0%-1.9% financing on the Tundra pickup, a $1,000 rebate on the Tacoma pickup and a $199 a month lease on the Camry. Low interest financing is also available.

Programs end 3/31/08.

March 8, 2008

Toyota Launches Unusual Warranty Extension for 1995-2000 Tacoma Pickups

Torrance, CA -- Toyota Motor Sales (TMS) U.S.A., Inc. will launch a Customer Support Program to extend warranty coverage on certain 1995 through 2000 model year Tacoma truck frames.

Toyota has received reports regarding a small number of Tacoma vehicles exhibiting excessive corrosion of the frame, causing perforation of the metal. The frames of some vehicles may not have adequate corrosion protection.

Continue reading "Toyota Launches Unusual Warranty Extension for 1995-2000 Tacoma Pickups"

March 5, 2008

Scion to Reveal Coupe Concept at 2008 New York Auto Show

TORRANCE, Calif. -- Scion will unveil an all-new concept vehicle, the Hako Coupe, at the 2008 New York International Auto Show. The sporty interpretation of the box concept was developed by Tokyo Design Division which studied global, youth-inspired trends.

The Scion press conference will take place on Wednesday, March 19 at 3:15 PM ET in the Special Events Hall in Javits Convention Center.

Continue reading "Scion to Reveal Coupe Concept at 2008 New York Auto Show"

Tax Credits for Hybrid Cars

The deadline for filing taxes is right around the corner, and if you purchased a hybrid vehicle in 2007, the following list can tell you what type of tax credit you can expect to receive on your 2007 return.

Thanks to the Energy Policy Act of 2005, certain hybrid and alternative-fuel vehicles can earn credits of up to $4,000. To be eligible for the Energy Policy Act of 2005, vehicles have to fall into one of four categories: fuel cell, advance lean burn technology, hybrid or alternative fuel. Currently, the only mass-market cars that qualify are hybrids and one alternative-fuel car, the Honda Civic GX.

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Toyota Driving Program Battles Teen Crash Fatalities

NEW YORK -- Teenage drivers are involved in fatal traffic accidents at more than twice the rate of the rest of the U.S. population, and motor vehicle crashes still remain the leading cause of death among teens.

Committed to battling these statistics, Toyota is continuing its hands-on, national teen and parent advanced driving skills program, "Toyota Driving Expectations," in 2008.

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Toyota Announces Scheduled Retirements

TORRANCE, Calif. -- Toyota Motor Sales U.S.A., (TMS) Inc. today announced the following scheduled retirements:

Dave Illingworth, senior vice president and chief administrative officer, will retire effective January 1, 2009. Spanning nearly three decades, Illingworth's career with TMS boasts an assortment of key senior-management assignments across a breadth of Toyota and Lexus business units.

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Asbury Auto Group Acquires Toyota/Scion Dealer in Roswell, Georgia

NEW YORK -- Asbury Automotive Group, Inc., one of the largest automotive retail and service companies in the U.S., today announced that it has acquired Toyota of Roswell (Georgia), which generates approximately $100 million in annual revenues from its Toyota and Scion franchises.

The dealership will be re-branded Nalley Toyota of Roswell and Nalley Scion of Roswell. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

Continue reading "Asbury Auto Group Acquires Toyota/Scion Dealer in Roswell, Georgia"

March 4, 2008

Toyota Recognizes Top Suppliers for 2007

ERLANGER, Ky. -- Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing North America, Inc. (TEMA) has announced award-winning North American suppliers for 2007.

The awards recognize those suppliers who exceeded the company's expectations in the following areas: Launch Performance, Technology, Supplier Diversity, Value Improvement and Quality.

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March 3, 2008

Toyota Subsidiary to Open Plant in Mississippi

TROY, Mich. -- Toyoda Gosei North American Group announced its plan to establish a new automotive parts manufacturing plant, located in Batesville, Mississippi.

The plant is being established to develop interior and exterior plastic automotive components for the Toyota Motor Manufacturing Mississippi, Inc. (TMMMS), set to begin production in 2010.

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Toyota Sales Down 6.6% in February

TORRANCE, Calif. -- Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc., today reported February sales of 182,169 vehicles, a decrease of 6.6 percent from last February.

"Spurred in part by rising fuel prices, Toyota's fuel-efficient models and hybrids, the mainstay of our lineup, continue to show strength," said TMS President Jim Lentz.

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February 27, 2008

Toyota Manufacturing Recognizes Top Volunteers

Princeton, IN -- Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Indiana, Inc. (TMMI) recognized Team Members for their annual volunteer efforts during a Team Member Volunteer Program (TMVP) reception on Monday, Feb. 25.

A total of 175 team members logged 20,870 volunteer hours in 2007, an increase of 6,000 hours from 2006. Because of these team members' efforts, area non-profit organizations will receive a total of $28,950 in grant money from the Team Member Volunteer Program incentive plan.

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Toyota Announces Diversity Scholarship

Princeton, IN -- Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Indiana (TMMI) announced Wednesday a donation for an annual diversity scholarship, valued at $5,000, to be awarded to a University of Evansville student.

The diversity scholarship is a result of TMMI's strong commitment to diversity and education. The scholarship was established in October to honor National Diversity Month.

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February 26, 2008

Bassman Kevin Vandam: The Toyota Tundra Saved My Life

"This is how we roll around the country right here," said Kevin Vandam at the side of his Toyota Tundra pickup, a day after placing third in the 2008 Bassmaster Classic.

Vandam, already a two-winner Classic winner, is on his second Tundra in two years, after putting 45,000 miles on a 2007 model.

It was in that '07 model that Vandam learned about the real-world value of all the effort Toyota put into engineering their new-generation Tundra.

"The power is impressive, but probably the thing that impresses me the most is the way it stops. I might not be here if I was in something else," he said.

"Last year I was driving through Chattanooga and I saw a dump truck cut a car in two, right in front of me. I had to brake -- we were running 65 -- and then steer around the debris in the road," Vandam said. "That's the closest call I've ever had on the road. "

Vandam is a member of the Toyota Fishing team, which you learn more about by clicking here.

Video: Terry "Big Show" Scroggins on why he loves his Toyota Tundra pickup

Terry Scroggins counts on his Toyota Tundra pickup to transport him to and from America's biggest bass fishing tournaments. After all, he has to get to the show.

Scroggins is a member of the Toyota Fishing team, which you learn more about by clicking here.

Pro Bass Angler Dave Wolak Thrives in a Toyota Tundra

Dave Wolak is on his third Toyota Tundra pickup truck at the beginning of his fourth year as a professional bass angler, so he's gotten to know the vehicle intimately -- especially since the Tundra does triple duty as a tow vehicle, tackle store and home away from home.

While professional anglers are just starting to earn a pretty good living plying their trade on the water, guys like Wolak definitely work for a living -- driving themselves and their boats around the country from event to event for months at a time -- which means they have to carry all their gear, fishing supplies and clothes inside the cabin and bed of their trucks.

While the comfortable cabin makes life easier for Wolak, his biggest concern is the truck's performance -- as in its ability to tow a bass boat, that typically weigh close to 2,000 pounds. "I like a lot of the little features in the Tundra, but the bottom line is the truck performs."

"When I'm towing a boat I need the power to pass somebody on the highway, drive up a ramp," Wolak said. "The truck has to drive comfortable without shifting down on me, if you have a less powerful motor than the Toyota, it's screaming because it's always downshifting."

Wolak is a member of the Toyota Fishing team, which you learn more about by clicking here.

February 24, 2008

Alton Jones Wins $7,500 From Toyota for Winning Bassmaster Classic

Greenville, S.C. -- Alton Jones, who's just won a $500,000 check for winning the 2008 Bassmaster Classic, also picked up a tidy $7,500 check from Toyota's brand new contingency program.

Jones qualified for the extra reward because he recently purchased a 2008 Sequioa SUV, making him eligible for Toyota's contingency program, which rewards owners of either the SUV or the Tundra pickup when they win a certified fishing tournament.

By recording a three day catch of 49 pounds, 7 ounces, Jones won the Bassmaster, earning him the Toyota check. Jones becomes the very first winner under the program, just launched in December.

Cliff Pace, who came in second to Jones at the Bassmaster, also qualified for a $2,500 contingency payout, as he is the proud owner of a Tundra pickup. Pace recorded a three day weight total of 44 pounds, 5 ounces.

At the weigh-in and award ceremony, Pace made his props to Jones, saying, "If I had to lose to anybody, it would be Alton, for a lot of reasons. I look up to a lot of these guys. Alton is one of the guys I look up to because he's paid his dues."

Toyota Launches First-Ever Tow-vehicle Contingency Program

Toyota continues moving forward with their support of competitive bass fishing by launching the Toyota Trucks Bonus Bucks program. It is fishing’s first ever national tow-vehicle based contingency program for anglers fishing in Bassmaster affiliated events.

Tournament anglers who drive a 2007 or newer Tundra or Sequoia as their tow-vehicle will be eligible for considerable amounts of bonus money at the weigh-in this year if they are registered in the Toyota Trucks Bonus Bucks program.

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Toyota's Big Presence at the 2008 Bassmaster Classic

Toyota is making big moves with its full-size Tundra pickup, delivering its first-ever true competitor to Detroit's big boy haulers.

In order to get the word out, they're going straight to the source with a variety of lifestyle marketing measures, one of the most effective being their sponsorship of some of the world's leading bass anglers, in the form of the Tundra Fishing Team, all of whom are competing at this weekend's Bassmaster Classic.

We're on hand in Greenville, South Carolina, where the event is being held at nearby Hartwell Lake, and will have more information and interviews with some of the anglers after the event comes to a close.

What impresses us most so far, is the way Toyota is integrating the Tundra with the event, but mostly with the anglers and support crews that make it possible to get the boats in the water. By using this approach -- showing folks not only their support for the sport, but also demonstrating how their truck can get the job done, it appears that Toyota is making a very smart marketing investment -- taking the truck where people live, as opposed to just showing them shiny advertising.

February 13, 2008

Best Selling Crossovers in the U.S. -- January 2008

The crossover segment is one of the few bright spots in the new vehicle sales reports, with January 2008 sales up 15.1%. As we've pointed out, much of that increase comes at the expense of minivan sales, which were down 18.3% last month.

While crossovers appear to be just small SUVs, they differ from the traditional ute by being built on unibody frames, just like cars, as opposed to being like trucks, which are body on frame construction. In other words crossovers are either tall cars or reconfigured station wagons. But most people call them SUVs. Because they look like one.

Bottom line, consumers are buying more of them because they get better gas mileage, typically handle more like cars, thus being easier to drive than big SUVs. Though we think it's more of a generational shift -- the SUV had its day and is giving way to a new trend.

The best selling crossovers for January 2008 are as follows:

Continue reading "Best Selling Crossovers in the U.S. -- January 2008"

Best Selling Pickups in the U.S. -- January 2008

Pickup truck sales were off 5% in January 2008, with 126,490 units sold, versus 133,159 sold last January.

The Ford F-150 is still number one, but the Chevy Silverado is gaining ground, all the while the Toyota Tundra is chewing up the segment by selling nearly double the numbers of vehicles compared to last year.

The best selling pickups in the U.S. for January 2008 are as follows:

Continue reading "Best Selling Pickups in the U.S. -- January 2008"

Toyota Launches Literacy Program in Burien/Seattle

Seattle, WA -- Toyota today announced that three Seattle elementary schools will be among the newest sites for its successful Toyota Family Literacy Program (TFLP).

TFLP – the first nationwide program of its kind to focus on the needs of Hispanic and other immigrant families – is coordinated by the National Center for Family Literacy (NCFL), the country's leading advocate for family literacy.

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February 11, 2008

Automotive Hall of Fame Announces 2008 Distinguished Service Recipients, 2007 Industry Leader

DEARBORN, Mich. -- The Automotive Hall of Fame yesterday announced its 2008 Distinguished Service Citation Recipients.

The Automotive Hall of Fame's oldest recognition, initiated in 1940, the Distinguished Service Citation recognizes an individual who has significantly improved the industry or their respective organizations. A recipient is either currently employed in the industry or recently retired.

2008 Distinguished Service Citation recipients are:

Continue reading "Automotive Hall of Fame Announces 2008 Distinguished Service Recipients, 2007 Industry Leader"

February 6, 2008

Toyota 1/X Concept Debuts At 2008 Chicago Auto Show

Chicago, IL -- The Toyota 1/X concept vehicle made its North American debut today at the 2008 Chicago Auto Show. Developed by Toyota Motor Corporation, the Toyota 1/X compact hybrid offers a glimpse into the next era of automotive technological design.

The Toyota 1/X redefines from its very roots the idea of what it means to be environmentally considerate. Pronounced 1/Xth, the name is derived from its vehicle mass, fuel consumption and emissions output, each totaling a fraction of that of other vehicles in its class.

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Toyota Adds Urban Runner Package to 4Runner Sport Edition

CHICAGO -- The 2008 Toyota 4Runner midsize sport utility vehicle (SUV) with an all-new Sport Edition Urban Runner Package will make its debut at the 2008 Chicago Auto Show.

Adding a new dimension in style, value, and upscale luxury to the capable SUV, the Urban Runner Package delivers an extraordinary value with a manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) of $1,760 over the Toyota 4Runner Sport Edition 4WD V6's base price of $32,600.

Continue reading "Toyota Adds Urban Runner Package to 4Runner Sport Edition"

February 5, 2008

Best Selling Minivans in the U.S. -- January 2008

The best selling minivans in the United States for January 2008 are led by Toyota, in first place, with the Chrysler Town & Country coming in at #2, Honda Odyssey at #3 and the Dodge Grand Caravan at #4.

Chevy came in fifth and Kia put up respectable numbers for the #5 position, with Nissan falling to #6 and Hyundai barely registering at #8.

The best selling minivans in the U.S. for January '08 are as follows:

Continue reading "Best Selling Minivans in the U.S. -- January 2008"

Top Ten Best Selling Cars in the U.S. -- January 2008

The top ten best selling cars in the United States for January 2008 are led once again by Japanese automakers, taking up the top five positions. General Motors has four vehicles on the list, rounded out by the Ford Focus, in the #10 slot.

The top ten best selling cars in the U.S. for January '08 are as follows:

Continue reading "Top Ten Best Selling Cars in the U.S. -- January 2008"

February 4, 2008

Toyota to Plant 20,000 Trees Through Arbor Day Foundation Partnership

IRVINE, Calif. -- Toyota Material Handling, U.S.A., Inc. (TMHU), through its partnership with the Arbor Day Foundation, today announced that 20,000 trees -- one for every 8-Series lift truck sold in 2007 -- will be planted in national forests damaged by fire or other natural causes.

The company also announced an expanded commitment to the Foundation in 2008. TMHU will donate one tree for every Toyota lift truck delivered in 2008, which the company estimates to be about 30,000 trees based on 2007 figures.

Continue reading "Toyota to Plant 20,000 Trees Through Arbor Day Foundation Partnership"

One Hundred Toyotas to Be Given Away to Promote National Safety

PORT ORANGE, Fla. -- First Alert System Text (FAST), a state-of-the-art text message system which alerts citizens about emergencies, has announced that beginning January 30, 2008 they will give a new Toyota to 100 individuals throughout the U.S.

This 100 car giveaway is the first in a series of events to promote the kickoff of the nation's premier cell phone based emergency alert notification system. Winners will be selected from new subscribers to the National Emergency Alert Network.

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NYC Car Service Using Hybrid-Only Camry and Lexus Vehicles

NEW YORK -- NYC Green Car, a luxury car service committed to only using hybrid vehicles, announced today that is has launched service in New York City.

Although some New York car services have hybrid vehicles in their fleet, NYC Green Car believes it is the first car service in the city committed to only using hybrid cars. The fleet consists of Toyota Camry and Lexus cars; the company does not use Toyota Prius vehicles, which it deems too small for corporate customers.

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February 3, 2008

Toyota Sequoia Super Bowl Ad -- Big Wheel Fun

The Super Bowl ad for the Toyota Sequoia is clever -- using visuals from the famous Big Wheel race to convey a sense of fun for their own version of big wheel fun -- the Sequoia SUV.

Kinetic music and images, with only a hint of the vehicle at the end might make for better entertainment than sales value, though.

Toyota's Winter Special Halftime Ads

I don't like these ads from Toyota because the graphic for Winter special, looks too much like a Christmas season ad.

Since I'm confused, I therefore ignore the ads.

Corolla Badger Ad -- Superbowl Funny

The Toyota Corolla Super Bowl ad with the J. Peterman dude doing the voiceover [we think] was funny, while drawing attention to the high quality of the vehicle.

A guy is put inside the car with sleeping [ferocious] badgers that will "gnaw his face off" if they wake up. And actors then proceed to shoot a cannon, without disturbing the critters, until the dude's cellphone goes off.

Manages to draw a little attention to the Corolla, while entertaining. All in all, more fun than effective, in terms of actually selling cars.

February 2, 2008

Current Auto Rebates Has All the Updated Rebates!

With auto sales down 4.3% in January 2008, many automakers are increasing the rebate and incentive offers they have on the hoods of their vehicles.

Yet keeping track of all the rebate programs can be difficult work, which is why we began publishing Current Auto Rebates, the Internet's first document that lists every rebate program for every vehicle for same in the United States.

This 13-page PDF makes it easy for you to look up rebates on any model you're interested in, and even allows you to contact your local dealer who will give you a free price quote on the ride of your choice.

Since rebate programs can change several times per month, you may want to sign up for free updates to the publication -- when we update the document you'll get an email from us letting you know a refreshed version is available for you to download.

And if someone you know is currently shopping for a new vehicle, you may want to download a copy and email it to them -- they'll thank you for doing so!

Toyota Presents $50,000 to Baltimore Boys & Girls Club

Baltimore, MD -- It didn't take long for word to spread in the 400-family public housing community that a long-awaited after-school program was moving in.

Before officially opening their doors yesterday, Baltimore's newest Boys & Girls Club at Brooklyn Homes had already attracted a devoted group of teens who were spending their afternoons and weekends cleaning, painting and encouraging their friends to join.

Continue reading "Toyota Presents $50,000 to Baltimore Boys & Girls Club"

February 1, 2008

Toyota Reports January Sales Down 2.3%

TORRANCE, Calif. -- Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc., today reported January sales of 171,849 vehicles, a decrease of 2.3 percent from last January.

"On the retail front, consumers are sitting in the catbird's seat, with falling interest rates and a competitive market giving rise to showroom values," said Jim Lentz, TMS president. "On the product front, the migration toward passenger cars dovetails nicely with February's launch of the all-new Corolla and Matrix."

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January 31, 2008

2009 Toyota Matrix: Redesigned For Improved Performance

Torrance, CA -- The Toyota Matrix, the sporty five-door vehicle that helped redefine the concept of a crossover utility vehicle, has been redesigned for the 2009 model year to offer performance that matters for driver enjoyment.

"The Matrix concept was based on blending the functionality of an SUV, the style, image and performance of a sports car with the affordability of a subcompact sedan," said Tim Morrison, Toyota Division corporate marketing manager. "For 2009, it's all that, and more. It may have the body of a five-door hatch, but it comes with the soul of a two-door sports car."

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2009 Toyota Corolla: The Tenth Generation

Torrance, CA -- Originally launched in Japan in 1966, Corolla first arrived in America in 1968 to instant success. For nearly four decades, Corolla has been synonymous with Toyota quality, style and value, earning a distinction as one of the most trusted cars in America.

Over that span more than 30 million Corollas have been sold worldwide, making it one of the best-selling cars of all time.

"Nearly 40 years after the Corolla was introduced to American drivers, the 2009 Corolla will continue to offer the quality and value for which the brand has long been known," said Tim Morrison, Toyota Division corporate marketing manager.

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January 30, 2008

The Great Rebate War of 2008: Pickups Fire the First Shot

Even though auto execs are swearing that 2008 won't be a year of big rebates, the economic forecast suggests reality may force their hand before the summer selling season.

In just the first month, we are already seeing significant rebates being offered; regular readers already know about our new publication, Current Auto Rebates that lists all rebates for every make and model.

After sales results for January are posted, we will probably see even more money being placed on the hood, but for now, consider the amounts that pickup makers are already floating -- the lowest is GMC with $2,000 for the Sierra, then Toyota with $2,500 for the Tundra. Ford and Chevy are pretty moderate, but mah god Nissan and Dodge are giving away five and six grand respectively.

In our view, there is going to be a great rebate war in 2008, and as you can see from the list below, pickups have already established a beachhead.

January Rebates for Pickup Trucks:
-- Ford F-150: $2,500 or low APR
-- Chevy Silverado: $3,250 or $1,750 and low APR
-- Dodge Ram: $6,000 or $2,500 and low APR
-- Toyota Tundra: $2,000 or low APR
-- Nissan Titan: $5,000 or low APR
-- GMC Sierra: $2,000 or low APR

With Home Prices Dropping, Car Prices Are Sure to Follow

It's accepted wisdom now that overall auto sales will drop in 2008. This is seen as a function of the housing bust, during which as much as 20% of new car purchases were funded by residential real estate profit, home equity cashouts and the general euphoria in real estate related industries.

Now that home prices are dropping -- and will continue to do so until they fall in line with median income -- we believe the average new vehicle transaction price will drop as well. If houses can fall 10%-30% in value, why not cars?

In November we ran a story from Comerica Bank stating the average transaction price of a new vehicle was $29,024. Our projection is this number will fall below $25,000, perhaps in 2009 if not this year, for several reasons:

1. Less money to spend. The option of taking cash out of a home to finance a new purchase is gone. The psychology of spending "free money" to buy a luxe ride will give way to folks actually having to make the payment out of their own pocket. And with many people paying even more for housing due to adjustable rates, they will choose cheaper rides.

2. Gas prices. While $3 a gallon gas isn't as draconian as five bucks, it will have an effect over time. People are already choosing more efficient crossovers and smaller SUVs over the big buses, and V8s are going out of favor. Look for more people to choose V6s in cars and for four-cylinders to pick up in popularity.

3. Negative equity. A greater percentage of folks are upside down in their cars, and have been rolling their balances into new loan agreements. To catch up, their new purchases will have to be cheaper and it's going to take years to eat away at the balance.

4. New frugality. In a tough economy, the value of money becomes more dear. People will start thinking twice about how much money they spend. They will choose cheaper cars, perhaps with more options, but the luxe-marques are in for a rough ride.

5. New wage structures. The Detroit car companies have made big headlines with their new labor deals, that allow them to replace higher paid union workers with new hires at a lower wage scale. The higher wages translated into higher sticker prices; the lower wages will allow for slimmer price hikes and even reductions.

6. Battle for fewer consumers. Don't let the tough talk fool you. As fewer cars are sold throughout 2008, the rebate war will kick into full swing -- and spiffs will help bring down the average transaction price.

This last reason is why we launched Current Auto Rebates, a site that publishes all the rebates for every model in a single PDF file, to make bargain hunting that much easier.

January 28, 2008

2009 Toyota Matrix Pricing Announced

The Toyota Matrix helped redefine the concept of a crossover vehicle, and has been redesigned for the 2009 model year.

Development of the 2009 Matrix focused on greater exterior coupe-like styling with enhanced interior utility and improved dynamic performance. The result is a sporty shape that has a wider, lower stance than the current model, but contains room for five people to ride in comfort. The Matrix has rounded rear windows and continuous character lines that run from the front grille to the A-pillar.

Continue reading "2009 Toyota Matrix Pricing Announced"

2009 Toyota Corolla Pricing Announced

Nearly 40 years after the Corolla was introduced to American drivers, an all-new, 10th generation 2009 Corolla will continue to offer the quality and value for which the brand has long been known.

The new Corolla with an all-new body that delivers increased interior and luggage room, more power, more economical engines and an all-new chassis and suspension.

The Corolla will come in five grades – Standard, LE, XLE, the sporty S, and the performance-driven XRS.

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Toyota Announces Special Edition FJ Cruiser

The special FJ Cruiser Trail Teams Edition will feature the first-ever monotone white roof and body with black trim pieces, which set the FJ Trail Teams edition apart from the rest.

Additional exterior features include black front and rear bumper end caps and front grille surround, and black exterior mirrors and door handles. Trail Teams badges have been added to the rear door and glove box.

Continue reading "Toyota Announces Special Edition FJ Cruiser"

January 27, 2008

2008 Toyota Tundra Rebates Available at Current Auto Rebates.com

The 2008 Toyota Tundra has a $3,000 rebate or 0%-3.9% financing available; program ends 2/4/08. The 2008 Toyota Tundra base price -- $22,290.

Click here to get your free 2008 Toyota Tundra price quote!