Kelley Blue Book Names Toyota as Brand with Best Resale Value

It isn’t something that everyone considers when buying a new car, but resale value should always be considered when purchasing a new vehicle. Don’t you want to get as much as possible out of your vehicle when you trade it in or sell it for a newer model five years down the road?

The 2013 FJ Cruiser

If you said yes, Toyota is far and away the manufacturer for you.

In its annual “Best Resale Value” awards, Kelley Blue Book named Toyota the best overall brand. Not only did Toyota win the Best Brand category, but in Kelley Blue Books’ “Top Ten” list, which names the top ten overall models, Toyota took four of ten spots, including the top overall vehicle with the FJ Cruiser.

KBB also named the top vehicle in respective categories. Of the twenty-two categories, Toyota vehicles won six – the Avalon won for Best Full-Size Car, the FJ Cruiser won Best Mid-Size SUV/Crossover, the Sequoia won Best Full-Size SUV/Crossover, the Tacoma won Best Mid-Size Pickup Truck, the Tundra won best Full-Size Pickup truck, and the Sienna won the category for Best Minivan.

If driving a stylish, reliable vehicle that retains its value sounds good to you, stop in and see us!

Redesigned for 2014: The All-New Toyota 4Runner

The versatile 4Runner has a history of being a durable and rugged off-road capable SUV, and for 2014 it is receiving a facelift that better fits its persona. Whether you need a vehicle capable of hauling your kids to school or to getaway for a camping trip, the 4Runner is a great option. Toyota Scion of Concord is excited for the arrival of the reinvented 4Runner.

The 2014 4Runner features a new grille and headlamps that give it a more rugged look. With three trims to choose from, you can decide between 17-inch or 20-inch alloy wheels, and eight different color options.

On the inside, there are a number of optional features for the 4Runner. You can have a leather wrapped steering wheel, leather shift knob, and Soft Touch door trim, giving you a luxurious feel on the inside. Another great feature is an automatic dual-zone climate-control system, giving you the ability to keep all of your passengers warm or cool on trips.

2014 4Runner

The 4Runner comes with a five-speed automatic transmission and a 270-hp 4.0-liter v6 engine. You can choose between rear wheel two-wheel drive, a part time four-wheel drive, or a full-time multi-mode four-wheel drive with a locking center differential.

If you’re interested in the redesigned 4Runner, stop in at Toyota Scion of Concord today and speak with one of our knowledgeable sales staff. We offer a full line of Toyota and Scion’s, and are positive we can find just the right vehicle for you! Also, don’t forget about our exceptional service department, ready to meet any of your service needs!

Thanks for reading; we look forward to speaking with you!

Tips to Cut Down on Distracted Driving

April is Distracted Driver Awareness month, and we here at Toyota Scion of Concord wanted to give our wonderful customers some pointers on how to stay safe on the roadways. Not only does distracted driving account for a high percentage of accidents on the roadways, but a distracted driver is 23 times more likely to get into an accident – yikes!

We owe our business to you, the customer, and it is our hope that every one of our customers will stay safe on the roadways, so below is our list to stay focused on the road.

1.       Download an app! (Before getting on the road, of course)

·         There are a number of apps, such as AT&T’s DriveMode, tXtBlocker, and “Drive First” by Sprint that can block texting and other distracting features on your phone to cut down on distractions.

2.       Eat First

·         We understand that sometimes in your busy lifestyle you have to grab a bite on the go, but it is a distraction. Plan out your meals and try to squeeze a bite in before hitting the road.

3.       Set a playlist

·         Searching for a station, shuffling through an iPod, or fumbling through CDs are all huge distractions that can take your eyes off of the road for far too long. Try to set a playlist, or pick a CD before driving.

4.       GPS

·         Set your destination before you take off, or if you must change your destination, use voice control options so that you are able to quickly say your destination and keep your eyes to the road ahead.

5.       For parents: make sure your children are occupied and buckled up

·         If you are a parent, you know what we are talking about. Make sure the portable DVD player and snacks are ready to go before hitting the road, it could make the difference in arriving safely with your precious cargo!

These are just a few things that can be done to be safer on the roadways, and it is up to you to make a change and commit to staying focused.

Stop in and let us show you the technology Toyota is implementing to cut down on distracted driving!

We look forward to seeing you, and stay safe!   

5 Million Hybrids and Counting, Toyota is Proud to Stay Green

Since 1997, Toyota has led the way in Hybrid Car technology. In ’97 the Prius was one of a kind, but 13 years of innovation has led to Toyota offering multiple hybrid options, as well as a number of electric vehicles. Each of these vehicles is environmentally friendly, and is available at Toyota Scion of Concord.

Toyotas hybrid lineup includes the Camry Hybrid, Avalon Hybrid, Highlander Hybrid, and the Prius.

Three of the four hybrids in the Toyota lineup receive over 40 MPG*, while the Highlander Hybrid reaches 28 MPG*, which is very impressive for a sport utility vehicle. Not only are these vehicles fuel-efficient and environmentally friendly, they are also some of the most reliable vehicles on the road.

In honor of Earth Day, and the amount of money these wonderful vehicles will save you in gas, stop in at Toyota Scion of Concord today and ask about our full line of hybrid cars and SUVs. Toyota is committed to stay green, and we here at Toyota Scion of Concord are more than happy to offer these great vehicles!

Happy Earth Day!

*EPA Estimates

Scion Celebrates 10 Years with Special Edition Models

In celebrating its 10^th year on the market, Scion is set to release five special edition models. The exclusive “Scion 10 Series”, named for its 10^th anniversary, will be available on the FR-S, tC, iQ, xB and xD. The announcement was made during the 2013 New York Auto Show, and the special edition Scion’s will hit dealership’s in June 2013.

The special edition models will all come in a unique Silver Ignition paint, with solar-powered illuminated shift knobs, LED locator badges that light up when the car is unlocked, silver seat belts and interior badges. In addition to these features, the xB, iD and iQ models will feature unique wheels with a graphite finish, and the FR-S has HID headlamps with integrated LED daytime running lamps, dual climate control and a push-button starter.

There will only be 10,000 units produced, most of which will be tC’s.

If the special edition Scion 10 Series sounds like something that you would be interested in, make sure and stop in at Toyota Scion ofConcord and ask how you can get your hands on one! Our sales staff is eager to speak with you about the special edition Scion’s as well as our full line of new and used Toyota’s and Scion’s.

We look forward to speaking with you!

The 2013 Scion FR-S, one of the top sports cars of the year!

The All New Highlander Crossover, Revealed at the New York Auto Show

This week in New York City the most highly attended auto show in the United States is happening. With nearly every car manufacturer in attendance, it is difficult for vehicles to stand out.  This was not the case for the redesigned 2014 Toyota Highlander Crossover.

The new Highlander is 3 inches longer than the previous model, making it more comparable in size to other multi-passenger SUVs such as the Dodge Durango, Mazda CX-9 and Nissan Pathfinder.  The 2014 Highlander comfortable seats seven or eight people compared to six or seven in the previous year model.  Another added benefit of increasing the size of the Highlander is more storage space behind the third row seats, which Toyota says is 34% larger than previous models.

The Highlander will however keep a few things from the old model, including the standard 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine with six speed automatic transmission. Also carrying over is the optional 3.5-liter V-6 engine with all-wheel-drive.

Unfortunately, the 2014 Highlander will not be released until early 2014.

If the 2014 Highlander Crossover sounds like a vehicle for you, make sure and check with the our staff here at Toyota Scion of Concord about when it will be headed to dealerships! Also, stop in or give us a call and ask about our full line of Toyota and Scion cars, trucks, and SUVs.

We hope to see you soon

Have You Considered “Going Green”?

With gas prices on the rise and talk of global warming and pollution becoming more prominent, many people are looking for more environmentally clean and fuel efficient vehicles. One such vehicle, the 2013 Toyota Avalon Hybrid, was recently named “Best Green Car” at the Atlanta International Auto Show, and is available now at Toyota Scion of Concord.

The Toyota Avalon, named "Best Green Car"

The Toyota Avalon, newly remodeled for 2013, is a stylish and luxurious sedan. The Hybrid version has a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that produces less waste and improves fuel-efficiency to give it a combined 40-mpg. With the Avalon’s 17-gallon fuel-tank, it has a range of over 600 miles per full tank of gas.

Also widely renowned for its “green” implications is the Toyota Prius. The Hybrid Prius is capable of getting nearly 50 combine miles per gallon by combining a gasoline engine with a clean, quiet electric motor. Capable of being powered by either the electric motor or gasoline engine alone, or both combined, the Prius is as fuel efficient as they come. Also, on the greener side of things, the Prius is certified as an Advanced Technology Partial Zero Emission Vehicle.

The Avalon and the Prius are not the only Hybrid vehicles by Toyota. There are eight in all, including the Pruis c, Prius, Camry Hybrid, Prius V, Prius Plug-in, Avalon Hybrid, Highlander Hybrid, and the Rav4 EV. All of these vehicles are fuel efficient and dependable, and are great picks for anyone looking to save money and gasoline as well as be more environmentally friendly.

Stop in today and take a look at our wonderful line of hybrid vehicles, as well as our full line of new and used Toyota and Scions. Also, don’t forget to like us on Facebook!

We look forward to seeing you!

J.D. Powers and Associates Top Cars in Dependability Available at Toyota Scion of Concord

According to a recent study, consumers are now driving their cars longer than ever; nearly six years on average. This is a result of a number of things, including the stifling economy, the perception that newly redesigned cars are less reliable, as well as better warranties.

With consumers keeping their vehicles longer, it is more important than ever to purchase a vehicle that is reliable, and will not cost a fortune in repairs.

J.D. Powers and Associates named the Toyota Prius the
most dependable vehicle. 

Toyota, known for its reliability, ranked as one of the highest companies on J.D. Power and Associates dependability list. The Prius, which is also known for its outstanding fuel-efficiency, ranked as the number one most dependable vehicle, and Toyota overall was well under the industry average for problems per one hundred cars.

If dependability in your new vehicle is important to you, look no further. We have a variety of options that combine reliability, fuel-efficiency and style, so stop in at Toyota Scion of Concord today and take a look at our new line of Toyotas and let our knowledgeable sales staff explain the benefits of driving a Toyota. Also, check our website for an update inventory, or give us a call at 704-979-7700, we look forward to speaking with you.

We hope to see you soon!

Details of 2014 Toyota Tundra Shared by Toyota of Concord

2012 Toyota Tundra

Toyota of Concord is excited to share details of the 2014 Toyota Tundra, revealed at last week’s Chicago Auto Show.

The 2014 Toyota Tundra will be available in five trim levels: SR, SR5, Limited, Platinum and 1794 Edition. Cab styles will include the Regular Cab with two doors, the Double Cab with four doors, and the CrewMax with four doors. All cab styles are available as 4x2 or 4x4 models. Engine options include a 4.0L V6, 4.6L V8, and 5.7L V8.

The new Toyota Tundra gets a more industrial look by integrating the hood with the taller, bolder chrome grille, and squaring off the fenders and wheel wells to give the truck a wider stance. The new exterior design continues to the bed, with a deck spoiler and a stamped “Tundra” badge on the tailgate. Both the front and rear bumpers are now composed of three pieces to lower replacement costs.

Inside the 2014 Tundra, every truck gets a new instrument panel, more comfortable seats and improved ventilation. Many other improvements are trim-specific and include premium surface treatments, new leather options, bold contrasting fabrics, chrome accents, and upgraded audio and infotainment options.

Follow Toyota of Concord on Facebook to get all the latest news on the 2014 Toyota Tundra, and stop by our Toyota dealership near Charlotte to see the current line of Toyota cars, trucks, and SUVs. Our helpful staff is happy to explain all the options and help you find the perfect new car!

Great Deals on Used Cars at Toyota of Concord near Charlotte

Save money on used cars at Toyota of Concord

For an unbeatable deal on a used car in North Carolina, check out the pre-owned car specials at Toyota of Concord near Charlotte.

Toyota of Concord has a huge inventory of used cars available for immediate test drive, and they also have access to many other cars available for transfer from other area Hendrick Auto Group dealerships.

For buyers on a budget, Toyota of Concord currently offers a selection of vehicles under $10,000.

Included in these affordable specials is a 2007 Honda Fit (Stock #1949A) at the special internet price of $8,995. This Milano Red, Sport Trim Honda Fit with a manual transmission is the perfect car for a new driver, commuter, or anyone who values fun and fuel efficiency. This car had one previous non-smoking owner and comes with a clean CARFAX report.

Another bargain at Toyota of Concord is a 1998 Dodge Dakota Club Cab pickup (Stock #230540A). Don’t let the age concern you. This sport truck is clean, in great condition, has less than 67,000 miles on the odometer, and has been serviced here in the Toyota of Concord service department.

Deals like this don’t last, so prices and availability are subject to change. To see these and many other excellent used car choices, or new Toyota favorites like the 2013 Camry, Corolla, Venza, and many more, visit Toyota of Concord near Charlotte. We have a car for every lifestyle and budget, and our sales and finance teams work together for complete customer satisfaction.

We look forward to seeing you!

New Toyota Camry Specials for Charlotte Area Drivers

Specials for the 2012 Toyota Camry,
Toyota Scion of Concord near Charlotte

Toyota Scion of Concord has special limited-time offers for anyone looking for a new Toyota Camry near Charlotte, NC.

Right now, buyers can get $2000 off MSRP on any new 2012 Toyota Camry, and 0% financing with approved credit for 60 months.

The Toyota Camry was redesigned for 2012, receiving improvements to almost every area, from updated engine options to improved technology interfaces to a modified suspension that improves driving dynamics. What remains the same is the Toyota commitment to safety, earning the 2012 Camry top scores in IIHS tests, and best-in-class fuel economy.

The 0% financing offer expires on January 31, 2013, so don’t waste any time. Browse our inventory online, call 704-979-7700 to speak to a member of our sales team, or come to Toyota Scion of Concord today. We’re easy to find, conveniently located on I-85 at the Concord Mills Exit.

We look forward to serving you!

*Excludes tax, tag, registration, title and $549 dealer fees.

Toyota Prius Named Best Commuter Car by Forbes

Toyota Prius, on Forbes list of best commuter cars

Forbes recently compiled a list of the Best Cars for Commuters for 2013, and Toyota of Concord is proud, but not at all surprised, to announce that the Toyota Prius scored high marks.

Forbes broke their list down into five categories: short commute, long commute, carpool, winter commute and summer commute. They also narrowed the pool of cars by selecting those from the list of Recommended Cars by Consumer Reports and those that scored well in Consumer Union reliability and crash tests. Finally, they examined fuel economy, capacity, and range.

The Toyota Prius was a winner in the Long Commute category, the category in which fuel efficiency played a starring role. According to TrueCar.com editor Brandy Shaffels, commuters “traveling longer distances may be focused on saving money with a car that gets better mileage or, considering the amount of time they spend in their cars, they might prefer to sacrifice some miles per gallon for more comfort.”

The Toyota Prius rises to the challenge, offering fuel economy of 51 city/48 highway/50 combined mpg and almost 600 miles between fuel stops. Forbes said this is a great asset because it cuts the time needed for filling up out of the commuting time, and it could allow drivers to save money on the fuel they do buy by allowing them greater flexibility in shopping around for the lowest gas prices.

More commuting advice from the Aaron Gold in the About.com Guide to Cars advised drivers that “if you mostly commute solo or with one other person, avoid big vehicles like SUVs and minivans — you’re wasting a lot of fuel hauling around all that steel and empty space. Best to commute in something smaller and save the big car for family trips.”

If you are in the market for a new commuter car, Toyota of Concord is happy to help you explore the Forbes favorite Toyota Prius. Check out what we have to offer online, call our sales team at 704-979-7700 with any questions, or stop by our Toyota dealership near Charlotte for a test drive. We look forward to seeing you!

Toyota Avalon in Running to Replace Lincoln Town Car

2013 Toyota Avalon

As the limousine industry bids farewell to the Lincoln Town Car, many other cars, including the Toyota Avalon, are in line to get a piece of the livery market.

Gary Kessler, CEO of Cary International, the world’s largest livery company, recently addressed the issue with the Detroit News. “We’re clearly at a watershed event. There isn’t a clear replacement for the Town Car. But the more people who are in this space, the more that is going to raise the bar on the vehicles from which we can choose.”

Carey said that more than 85% of his fleet is still represented by the Town Car, but as older models are phased out, a new option will have to be available to take their place. Carey has done much research into what should come next, and Toyota believes the 2013 Avalon has what it takes.

While the Toyota Avalon has never entered the livery market in the United States, it has long been a leader of the class in Japan. In an effort to secure a spot in the emerging American market, Toyota has developed a new livery edition of the Avalon. The all-black Avalon has leather interior, rear climate controls, and heated rear seats, among other amenities.

Bill Fay, head of Toyota Motor Sales USA, said, “The vehicle seems to really fit in with what the livery people want and need. It’s kind of a new opportunity for us. We’re kind of almost sticking our toe in the water here.”

Check out the luxury of the new Toyota Avalon for yourself at Toyota of Concord near Charlotte. Our sales team is ready to answer any questions you have about the Avalon and its many features, as well as pricing and availability. We invite you to browse our inventory online, visit our Charlotte area Toyota dealership in person, or call 704-979-7700 for assistance.

Thank you for a great 2012, and we look forward to serving you in 2013!

Toyota Prius Among Most-Searched Cars of 2012

2012 Toyota Prius

Car buyers walk into dealerships equipped with more knowledge and information than ever before, thanks to online reviews and resources. This is especially true for Toyota Prius buyers, since the car was number 2 in the most-searched vehicles of 2012 on Autoweek.com.

Autoweek.com editors said the Toyota Prius “continues to be one of the best hybrids on the market, thanks to the automaker’s experience and continuous improvements to the car.”  They also praised its spacious interior, unexpected in a car of such small stature.

The 2012 Prius has a 1.8L engine and an electric motor that work together to produce excellent fuel economy, at 51/48 city/highway mpg. The hybrid powertrain is paired with an automatic continuously variable transmission.

Other standout features of the Toyota Prius include a digital information center with an energy monitor, distance-to-empty estimate, and current fuel economy. There is also an available navigation package that includes DVD navigation, backup camera, XM satellite radio with NavTraffic, and an eight-speaker audio system. The 2013 Toyota Prius is also a Top Safety Pick of the IIHS.

Continue to research the Toyota Prius on the Toyota of Concord web site, or call our Charlotte area dealership at 704-979-7700 with any questions for our knowledgeable sales team. We also invite you to visit us for a test drive to experience everything the Prius family has to offer.

Toyota FJ Cruiser, Tacoma on Best Off-Road List

Toyota FJ Cruiser among best off-road vehicles of 2012

Every car wants to be the best on the road, but the Toyota FJ Cruiser and Toyota Tacoma are proud to make the list of Edmunds.com Best Off-Roaders of 2012.

The FJ Cruiser is a standout in the Toyota lineup, breaking the mold of sensible and predictable with its unique style and character. This mid-sized SUV combines a quirky appearance and off-road capabilities to make it unlike any other vehicle in its class, while still offering the dependability drivers expect in a Toyota.

The FJ Cruiser is as fun to drive as it is to look at, with its powerful 4.0L V6 engine and easy handling. The strong chassis and available locking rear differential take it off-road as smoothly as it drives the city streets.

The Base FJ Cruiser is equipped with an automatic transmission, four-wheel drive, stability control, and traction control to help keep the handling in check even on rough terrain. Tech features like Bluetooth, iPod integration, and satellite radio combine modern convenience with the rugged utility.

The 2012 Toyota Tacoma takes versatility off-road with its wide variety of body, cab, and powertrain configurations.

Available in various combinations, the Tacoma offers a five- or six-foot bed, and three different cab styles. In addition to the Regular Cab, the Access Cab features rear-hinged doors on an extended cab, and the Double Crew Cab offers four front-hinged, full-sized doors on a crew cab.

Standard features of the Toyota Tacoma include a 2.7L four-cylinder engine with an automatic transmission. Stability and traction control help drivers navigate rough terrain, while side curtain airbags provide extra safety assurance.

Toyota of Concord has the FJ Cruiser and the Tacoma in stock for test drive near Charlotte today, though we recommend keeping them strictly on the road for the trial run. If you have any questions about these models or any other new Toyota, feel free to contact us online or call our Toyota dealership in Concord at 740-979-7700

2013 Toyota Rav4 Revealed at LA Auto Show

2012 Toyota Rav4,
available near Charlotte at Toyota of Concord

Toyota of Concord near Charlotte is excited to release details of the 2013 Toyota Rav4, recently unveiled at the 2012 Los Angeles Auto Show.

Since its release in 1995, the Rav4 has been a staple of the Toyota line, constantly pushing the envelope and making advancements to the market segment they helped create. And for 2013, they have pulled out all the stops, adding a wide variety of features and enhancements to make the 2013 Rav4 the best and brightest model they have ever introduced.

The new 2013 model is the most visually appealing Rav4 Toyota has released. Toyota has also made a large variety of design changes to improve the vehicle’s performance as well, including moving the spare tire under the cargo gate, allowing for a rear liftgate, as opposed to the previous side mounted door. This allows for a more aerodynamic design, a feature displayed in the overall design, reducing drag and helping increase fuel economy.

While making changes to the design, Toyota is still sure to keep the features that made the Rav4 one of a kind, including the All-Wheel Drive capability and Dynamic Torque Control, which shifts the car from Rear-Wheel Drive to All-Wheel Drive when the vehicle detects wheel slippage, providing better traction for a better drive.

While the 2013 Rav4 is not yet available, Toyota of Concord is pleased to offer the 2012 Rav4 with a wide variety of financing options to ensure you can drive away happy in your brand new Toyota. The 2012 Toyota Rav4 was rated one of 2012’s the Best Cars for the Money by U.S. News, as well as achieving an overall ranking of 2 out of 20 on their list of Affordable Compact SUVs. Stop by our Toyota dealership near Charlotte or call 704-979-7700 for information or to schedule a test drive.

Toyota Venza, Prius V Offer Most Space for Stuff

2012 Toyota Venza - class-leading cargo capacity

‘Tis the season for jingle bells, snowmen, and stuffing your car with a load of loot that makes Santa ashamed of the hauling capacity of his sleigh. Edmunds.com recently studied the versatile segment of wagons and hatchbacks to determine which offered the most cargo room to deliver the goods to all the nice boys and girls on your list.

Hatchbacks and wagons were chosen because they can accommodate packages of widely varying shapes and sizes. The also offer easy loading and unloading through wide openings and lower floors than most trucks and SUVs, as well as being easier to park and maneuver in crowded mall parking lots.

Rankings were determined by the available cargo space, measured in cubic feet, when all seats were in position. Confirming our opinion that a new Toyota should be at the top of all Christmas lists, Toyota cars claimed two of the top ten spots.

The 2012 Toyota Prius V tied for first place, with 34.3 cubic feet of cargo space. In addition to its hauling abilities, Edmunds.com reviews also praised the 2012 Prius V for its excellent fuel efficiency of 44/40 city/highway mpg. It also offers increased passenger room when compared to the standard Toyota Prius. The 2012 Prius V received the highest possible ratings from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety as well.

Number five on the list is the 2012 Toyota Venza, offering cargo space that measures 30.7 cubic feet. According to Emdumds.com, the 2012 Venza “avoids the apparent arrogance of an SUV, the stigma of a minivan and the ambivalence of a crossover; it simply works.” The Venza is equipped with many design features that maximize its interior space and offers many other trim-specific options. The 2012 Venza is available with a four-cylinder or V6 engine and offers front-wheel or all-wheel drive options.

For more information, or to test drive the Prius V, the Venza, or any other Toyota model you’d like to see wearing a big red bow in your driveway, visit Toyota Scion of Concord near Charlotte or call 704-979-7700. Our sales team and finance department are busy little elves, working to make sure everyone is happy on Christmas morning.

2013 Toyota Yaris Offers New Audio and Safety Options

Toyota recently released the 2013 Toyota Yaris, available again in three-door or five-door hatchback models. However, the Tech Audio Package is now standard on all 2013 Yaris models. 

The 2013 Yaris keeps all the fun, dynamic, fuel-efficient qualities that made previous model years so successful. However, the Tech Audio Package adds upgraded music and connectivity that are sure to appeal to the latest generation of drivers. 

The six-speaker AM/FM/CD stereo plays MP3/WMA CDs. The system provides sound enhancement for MP3s and the auxiliary jack allows connection of other musice devices. A USB port with iPod connectivity is also included with the package, as well as SiriusXM Satellite Radio capabilities. Bluetooth connectivity allows for phonebook access, music streaming, and hands-free phone options.

The 2013 Toyota Yaris is available in three trim levels, all equipped with a 1.5-liter, 16-valve, four-cylinder DOHC engine offering 106 hp and 103 lb.-ft. of torque. All models are offered with a four-speed electronic automatic transmission, with a five-speed manual transmission available on L and SE models.

As always, safety is a top Toyota priority. The 2013 Yaris is equipped with the Toyota Star Safety System, including anti-lock brakes, traction control, stability control, and brake assist. In addition, the Yaris also makes its 2013 debut with Smart Stop Technology, the new brake override system, and Whiplash Injury-Lessening. WIL is the Toyota front seat structure that supports the spine to reduce neck injuries in rear-end collisions. Nine standard airbags increase passenger safety.

To see the 2013 Toyota Yaris, visit Toyota of Concord near Charlotte. We have several different models available for test drive. Browse our inventory online, or call 740-979-7700 to speak to our sales team. We are happy to answer any questions about the new Yaris or any other vehicle of interest. With our excellent selection of new Scion and Toyota vehicles, as well as a huge inventory of quality used cars, we are sure you’ll find a car you love at Toyota of Concord.

2013 Toyota Avalon in Running for Best Car to Buy 2013

2013 Toyota Avalon

The Car Connection, a car review site whose contributors drive more than 300 cars so you don’t have to, has released their nominees for the Best Car to Buy 2013, and the Toyota Avalon is on the list.

To determine the Best Car to Buy 2013, The Car Connection narrowed the field to thirty eligible vehicles. Eligibility requirements included a base price of under $50,000, availability to be road tested before December 1, 2012, and ability to be purchased before April 30, 2013. Vehicles that meet those requirements are then given scores in areas of safety, performance, styling, features, comfort and utility, and a “green rating” that considers fuel economy.

According to The Car Connection, “the remaining cars, trucks, and crossovers include some of the best vehicles we’ve tested in our careers at High Gear Media, with some true historical milestones among them.” One of those elite vehicles is the 2013 Toyota Avalon.

The Car Connection review of the 2013 Avalon praised Toyota for allowing the Avalon to break out of its formerly conservative shell, with a flowing body design that strikes the perfect balance of relaxed but a little sporty. The car is actually smaller than previous models, but reviewers found the interior to have a more spacious feel, with quality materials, comfortable seating, modern instrument technology, and overall attention to detail.

Reviewers were most impressed with the performance of the new Toyota Avalon. The V6 model sets a high standard, becoming “quicker and more responsive in every way” than older models. However, most notable is the Avalon Hybrid, whose performance rivals that of the V6 Avalon, with slightly slower acceleration, but with a “level of refinement that might even fool some traditional Avalon shoppers.”

The Car Connection scored the 2013 Toyota Avalon as follows (all scores out of 10): Interior/Exterior – 8, Performance – 8, Quality – 9, Safety – 9, Features – 8, Fuel Economy – 9.

Final winners of The Car Connection’s Best Car to Buy 2013 will be announced on December 10, but you don’t have to wait. You can test drive a 2012 Toyota Avalon, and many other new Toyota cars, today at Toyota ofConcord near Charlotte. We can help you decide for yourself which Toyota is the best car for you to drive in 2013!

Toyota Brands Sweep Consumer Reports Reliability Rankings

Toyota FJ Cruiser among top models in Consumer Reports reliability survey

In another not surprising but still newsworthy report about reliable cars, Toyota brands took the top three spots in the Consumer Reports latest reliability survey, with Scion at number one, Toyota in second place, and Lexus in third.

The 2012 Annual Auto Survey conducted by Consumer Reports was based 800,000 responses from their subscribers about 1.2 million vehicles over the last year. Consumer Reports uses that feedback to predict the future performance of new cars by each brand currently on the market.

This is a repeat for the Scion brand, which also took the top spot in last year’s survey. However, Toyota moved up four places this year, taking the number two spot held by Lexus last year and bumping that brand to number three.

Toyota had 27 different models in the survey and of those, 16 earned the highest reliability ranking in their respective classes. Top finishers included the Toyota Camry hybrid, Venza, FJ Cruiser, Sequoia, Sienna, Tacoma, and Tundra, as well as the Scion xD and Lexus RX. The Toyota Prius C hybrid took the top spot overall.

"We're pleased with the findings, which reflect actual customer experience, not just reviewer opinion. The results also show how challenging it is to meet ever-higher customer expectations of new technology and in-car connectivity," said Jim Lentz, chief executive of Toyota Motor Sales USA Inc.

Toyota Scion of Concord has a huge selection of Toyota and Scion vehicles available for test drive today at our dealership near Charlotte. While the Toyota family of cars is unsurpassed in reliability, the Toyota Certified Pre-Owned program offers extra assurance when buying a used car. Call or visit Toyota Scion of Concord for help in determining the perfect new or used vehicle for your needs.