Tire Safety Week is June 2 through June 8th

There are a number of things you can do for your tires to not only keep them healthy longer, but also to keep them safer. This is extremely important because tire blowouts could lead to accidents or costly repairs.
Since this week is National Tire Safety Week and we care about the safety of our customers, we here at Toyota Scion of Concord have put together a list of tips to help you maintain your tires.

1. Check your tire pressure and inspect tires frequently
It is often suggested to check your tire pressure at least once a month, but it never hurts to check more often, and while you’re down there – check for abnormal wear or damage.\

2. Rotate tires every 5-6,000 miles, or according to the owner’s manual
By rotating tires you can even out the tread wear, helping the tires to achieve maximum tread life.

3. Maintain proper balance and alignment
An out-of-balance tire could be detected by thumping and other unusual noises, and misalignment may be detected by “pulling” in a certain direction and uneven wears on a tire. Both can lead to ruined tires, and much costlier repairs.

4. Do not overload, or overheat, your tires
The load capacity, or maximum weight your tire can handle, can often be found in the manual, or in the same area where the tire pressure recommendations are found. The tire can be “heated up” by driving too fast, carrying too much weight, rough roads, and under-inflation.

5. Replace tires when required
There are a number of indicators suggesting your tires should be replaced, which can be detected by the tread of the tires.
When tires are replaced, it is important to get tires in a pair or complete sets to maintain balance and not disrupt steering. Tires should also be chosen based on the driving environment.

If you have questions about your tires, need a rotation, need an alignment, or need all new tires, please stop in today at Toyota of Concord and speak with our excellent service department!

Please be safe, and check those tires!

Toyota Giving Back: 2013 Prius Plug-In Challenge

In light of recent allegations towards some automakers for overreaching fuel economy claims, Toyota, who has faced little if any scrutiny, is setting out to get the word out about their fuel-efficient and green Prius line while giving back. Taking place in New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut is the 2013 Prius Plug-in Challenge.

2013 Prius Plug-in

Participants in the Prius Plug-in Challenge will be loaned a Prius Plug-in for 30 days, and will drive it for no less than 500 miles, or 75 per week. At the end of the thirty days, the team that achieves the best overall fuel economy will win the challenge and receive a $2,500 donation toward their organization. Second place in the challenge will receive a $1,000 donation, while third place gets $500.

The 2013 Prius Plug-in receives an estimated combined 95 MPGe or 50 MPG depending on if you use the electric or hybrid mode.

To learn more about the fuel-efficient Prius, or any other vehicle in our full line of Toyota cars, trucks, and SUVs, stop in at Toyota of Concord today! Don’t forget to check us out on the web at www.toyotaofconcord.com.

Toyota Vehicles Among Best for Families According to Kelley Blue Book

Kelley Blue Book recently put together their “10 Best Family Cars” list. Toyota landed two cars on the list, the 2013 Toyota Prius v and the 2013 Toyota Avalon. Both vehicles are exceptional cars, and both are available at Toyota Scion of Concord in Concord, North Carolina.

2013 Prius v

Features such as safety, passenger room, comfort, and value were considered.

The Prius v offers 50 percent more cargo space than the regular Prius while still maintaining great fuel-efficiency with an estimated 50 to 42 mpg. When you combine space, efficiency, and Toyota reliability, you get a great family car.

2013 Toyota Avalon

The 2013 Toyota Avalon is a luxurious and spacious sedan that offers many features that are sought after in a family car, but also a sense of style. Thanks to its reliability, you don’t have to worry about a breakdown on those long family road trips – and you will spend less on gas!

If you’re in the market for a great family vehicle, stop in at Toyota Scion of Concord today! We have a full line of Toyota and Scion cars, trucks, and SUVs and are sure to have the perfect vehicle to fit your needs!

See you soon!

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!

Sporty New Scion FR-S Named Best Sports Car for the Money

 The 2013 Scion FR-S, Toyota’s sporty 200 horsepower coupe, was named “Best Sports Car for the Money” by U.S. News & World Report. The annual award is based on a vehicles value, quality, and critical acclaim in 21 different categories. Toyota Scion of Concord is excited for the arrival of these fun and reliable sports cars.

The overall score for the FR-S, which was a 9.1/10, was based on six categories: Critics’ rating, performance, exterior, interior, safety, and reliability. Ultimately, the FR-S was given the title of “Best Sports Car for the Money” because it has the best combination of cost and positive reviews.

The FR-S comes standard with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine and six speed transmission and what it lacks in horsepower in comparison to the Nissan 370Z and the Ford Mustang, it makes up for in handling and maneuverability. The FR-S also features better safety ratings than most vehicles in its class.

Make sure to stop in today and ask us about the arrival of the 2013 FR-S, and don’t forget to follow us on Facebook!

We look forward to hearing from you!

The Car Named "Best Sports Car for your Money",
The 2013 Scion FR-S

Front View - 2013  Scion FR-S

Rear View - 2013 Scion FR-S

Best Family Cars of 2012 Include Three 2012 Toyota Models

Three 2012 Toyota models among best vehicles for families

For the fifth year, Parents magazine and Edmunds.com have collaborated to compile a list of the year’s Best Family Cars. Several factors were considered, including safety (every vehicle on the list is equipped with antilock brakes, electronic stability control, and a minimum of six air bags), gas mileage, perceived value, and kid-friendliness.

In the Sedan category, the 2012 Toyota Camry was praised for its space, comfort, and sure handling. It won points for the spacious back seat, with enough room for taller adults and cumbersome car seats. Total seating capacitiy is 5 passengers, including 3 car seats. Other positive attributes are convenient technology (Entune, standard USB jack and Bluetooth capability, available backup camera), excellent fuel economy (21 city/35 highway), quiet ride, and ample trunk space. The 2012 Toyota Camry is an IIHS Top Safety Pick.

The 2012 Toyota Prius V was honored in the High-Mileage category, for which vehicles must achieve 40 mpg highway.  The Prius V boasts mileage of 44 city/40 highway, while providing the cargo space of a small SUV – enough room for a travel crib and luggage. With total seating capacitiy of 5 passengers, including 3 car seats, the rear seats slide forward and back in two sections to accommodate differing heights, and they also recline. Modern conveniences include standard backup camera, USB jack, Bluetooth capability, touch-screen audio system, and a hands-free smart key that unlocks the driver's side door as you approach. The 2012 Toyota Prius V is also an IIHS Top Safety Pick.

The 2012 Toyota Sienna earned accolades in the Large Vehicle category chosen for its flexible configurations and engine options. Standard second-row seating is oversized captain’s chairs that slide forward and back and recline, but seating capacity can be boosted to eight with the optional bench seat. However, the last 2 rows can also fold down for hauling furniture or other large items. Traveling perks include a three-zone climate system, one-touch power windows, deep door pockets, and spacious glove boxes. Options include a four-cylinder or V6 engine and all- or 4-wheel drive, and available power lift-gate and backup camera. The 2012 Toyota Sienna is also an IIHS Top Safety Pick.

All three of these Best Family Cars of 2012 and many other Toyota models are available today at Toyota of Concord near Charlotte, NC. Stop by today for a test drive, on your own or with the family in tow, to find the one that best fits your needs.

NHRA Four-Wide Nationals at ZMAX Dragway

The NHRA Four-Wide Nationals, the greatest spectacle in drag racing, kicked off today at ZMAX Dragway at Charlotte Motor Speedway.

This one-of-a-kind event is held at the only four-lane concrete drag strip in the world. NHRA’s Top Fuel, Funny Car and Pro Stock categories go four-wide in races that make two-lane dragging look like a suburban carpool.

Toyota of Concord is a proud supporter of car and racing culture and is excited to be in the heart of such exciting action!

2007 Toyota Prius Hybrid - IntelliChoice ranked Best Overall Value of the Year

Toyota first introduced its gasoline/electric hybrid Prius for 2001, following close on the launch of the Honda Insight. The current Prius made its debut for the 2004 model year. For 2007, a Touring Edition joins the Prius model lineup and the car receives additional standard safety equipment. The four-door 2007 Toyota Prius hybrid has great appeal with car-buying consumers because of its excellent fuel economy, brisk road manners and reasonable price tag.

The Prius has a gasoline-fueled internal combustion engine with an electric motor. Electric power runs the car until the first 12mph, after which the gasoline engine takes over. When the car is stationary or cruising, the gasoline engine can be turned off. The Toyota Prius never needs to be plugged in to a power source and functions just like any other regular family car. Interiors are comfortable for four adults and come standard with the most contemporary convenience features available in other vehicles.

IntelliChoice ranked Prius the Best Overall Value of the Year with an EPA-estimated combined city/highway 55 miles per gallon and an Advanced Technology Partial Zero Emission Vehicle (AT-PZEV) rating. Well-accommodated with standard features like Push Button Start, cruise control, keyless entry, power door locks and windows, and a liquid crystal multi-information display, the 2007 Toyota Prius offers great value for a great price, especially for the environment-conscious customer.

Explore the Prius Hybrid at Toyota of Concord, Speedway Blvd, Concord, North Carolina 28027.
For more information call 704-979-7700.

http://www.toyotaofconcord.com/New-Inventory.aspx