Toyota Trucks Recognized by MSN Autos as Most Fuel-Efficient in 2013

There are many benefits to owning a pickup truck, they are great for pulling, hauling and are more than capable of tackling the outdoors and heading off-road. But, on the downside, trucks aren’t known for their fuel-efficiency. Luckily, fuel-efficiency in trucks is improving and Toyota is leading the charge and MSN Autos has named the Toyota Tacoma the most fuel-efficient truck of 2013.

The Toyota Tundra and Tacoma 4WD also made the list. All three trucks are available at Toyota Scion of Concord in Concord, North Carolina.

The Tundra is Toyota’s full-size pickup option, and comes in three different trims: CrewMax, Double Cab, and Regular Cab. The Regular Cab and Double Cab come standard with a 4.0-Liter 270-horsepower V6 and a 5-speed transmission, while the CrewMax comes with a 4.6-Liter 310-horsepower V8.

The Tacoma, which is in the compact pickup category, comes with four trims: Regular Cab, Access Cab, Double Cab, and X-Runner. The Regular Cab, Access Cab, and Double Cab all come standard with a 2.7-liter 159-horsepower 4-Cylinder, while the X-Runner comes standard with a 4.0-liter 236-horsepower V6.

If you are interested in a pickup truck, stop in at Toyota Scion of Concord today and take a look at our new and used Toyota Trucks, as well as our full line of Toyota and Scion cars, trucks, and SUVs.

Toyota Named “Best Global Green Brand 2013” for Third Straight Year

In a study conducted by Interbrand to rank the top “Green Brands” globally, Toyota has earned the top spot for a third straight year. A number of factors go into the rankings, but Toyota’s nod to the top spot comes in large part to their great selection of hybrid vehicles including the Prius. Toyota takes pride in building environmentally safe vehicles, and Toyota of Concord in Concord, North Carolina is proud to offer these vehicles to their customers.

Along with the popular Prius models, other hybrid models include stylish sedans such as the Camry Hybrid and Avalon Hybrid, and spacious SUVs such as the RAV4 EV, and Highlander Hybrid. Toyota makes finding a hybrid vehicle easy by offering a number of options to fit the needs of anyone.

Toyota of Concord is proud to offer environmentally safe vehicles. Stop in today and take a look at our Toyota cars, trucks, and SUVs and ask us about our hybrid selection!

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!

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!

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!

2013 Toyota Rav4: Stylish and Versatile

Have you ever had to choose between space, and fuel efficiency? If so don’t fret, these decisions are a thing of the past thanks to the versatile new 2013 Toyota Rav4, available at Toyota of Concord.

The Rav4 is all new for 2013, and with 31 est. mpg highway it is quickly becoming a top SUV choice for those who need a little extra room. Combining the comfort and drivability of an SUV with the fuel efficiency of a sedan, the Rav4 also has ample cargo space, making room for 38.4 cubic feet of cargo while the back seats are upright. With the fold-flat second row seats down, the Rav4 is able to hold 73.4 cubic feet of cargo. Also available on the 2013 Rav4 is a power lift gate, making it easy to open when loading groceries or luggage.

The Reliable and Fuel-Efficient Toyota Rav4

If you’re more interested in comfort when purchasing an SUV, the Rav4 has available dual zone climate control, 8-way power adjustability with memory function and power lumbar support, and reclining rear seats. Also available is the smart key system, which allows you to unlock doors and the lift gate, and start the car with the push of a button.

And don’t forget, Toyota’s are among the most reliablevehicles on the road!

Stop in today and let us show you the 2013 Rav4, and the rest of our new care lineup. Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook to get the latest news.

We look forward to speaking with you!

Forbes Honors 2012 Toyota RAV4, Matrix as Best Compact Crossover SUVs

2012 Toyota RAV4

Ever-increasing fuel prices and concern for the environment have pushed the ubiquitous minivan and lumbering SUVs to the back of the line, behind the smaller, cushier crossover SUV. Forbes studied this shift, then released a list of top ten compact crossover SUVs, featuring both the 2012 Toyota Matrix and Rav4 as winners.

Compact crossover SUVs combine the passenger and cargo capabilities of an SUV with the fuel economy and style of a car. They are different from larger SUVs because instead of being built on a truck platform, they typically ride on car-like chassis. More than 58 models are classified as compact crossovers, so landing two Toyota models in the top ten is no small feat. The list was compiled by Forbes using Total Car Score data.

Forbes gives the RAV4 credit for pioneering the crossover movement. Even with a redesign on the horizon, the RAV4 has still held up well to up-and-coming competitors. Working it its favor are the distinctions of an available V6 engine and 7-passenger capacity. Fuel economy averages 24 mpg combined city/highway with the four-cylinder engine and 24 combined mpg for the V6. The MSRP ranges from $22,650 to $28,650, depending on selected trim levels and options. The Total Car Score for the 2012 Toyota RAV4 is 79.71, in an average class score of 74.43.

Forbes seemed skeptical that the 2012 Toyota Matrix was actually a crossover, attributing the classification to the fold-flat rear seats. The Matrix is a hatchback based on the Corolla platform, and is available with all-wheel drive. It has two available four-cylinder engine options, which return either 24 or 28 combined city/highway mpg for fuel economy. Various trim levels and options put the MSRP between $18,845 and $21,715. The Total Car Score for the 2012 Toyota Matrix is 74.89.

To experience the 2012 Toyota Matrix, RAV4, or any other Toyota that might suit your driving needs, visit Toyota Scion of Concord online or in person near Charlotte, North Carolina. Follow on Facebook and Twitter for the latest news and updates on your favorite Toyota vehicle.

2012 Toyota Tacoma, Tundra Win in Kelley Blue Book Study

2012 Toyota Tacoma

Kelly Blue Book rated the 2012 Toyota Tundra and 2012 Toyota Tacoma top in their segments in the latest KBB Cost to Own Awards. The Cost to Own evaluation goes beyond the purchase price of the car to estimate what the actual costs would be over five years of ownership.

The Cost to Own analysis includes factors such as out-of-pocket expenses like insurance, fuel, repairs, maintenance, state fee, and financing. Depreciation is also a factor, which is determined by the loss in the value of the car from its value after five years of ownership compared to the initial price of the car.

Why should buyers care about ownership costs? If a buyer is considering two similarly-priced models, the cost of ownership should be considered as well. In the long term, it could save the driver thousands of dollars.

While Toyota is often praised for its reliable, affordable compact cars, it was the trucks that were the stars in the cost of ownership study.

The 2012 Toyota Tacoma (regular cab) was awarded Best in Class in the Mid-size Pickup Truck category in the Kelley Blue Book evaluation. With estimated out-of-pocket expenses of $22,847 and depreciation of $9,481, the five-year cost to own a Toyota Tacoma is $32,328. This puts it above other mid-sized pickups like the Nissan Frontier and Chevrolet Colorado.

The lowest cost-to-own Full-size Pickup Truck category was won by the 2012 Toyota Tundra (regular cab). With estimated out-of-pocket expenses of $27,482 and depreciation of $15,561, the five-year cost to own a Toyota Tundra is $43,043. Not faring so well in the same category were the Ford F-150, Chevrolet Silverado, and GMC Sierra.

To test drive a 2012 Toyota Tundra, Tacoma, or any other Toyota model, visit Toyota Scion of Concord today. We are happy to supply the Charlotte area with new and pre-owned Toyota vehicles and many other used cars. Follow us on Facebook and Twitter for the latest news and updates on all things Toyota or Scion.

All-New 2013 Scion FR-S Available at Toyota of Concord

2013 Scion FR-S

Toyota of Concord is excited to introduce the brand-new 2013 Scion FR-S.  The 2013 FR-S is the latest addition to the Scion family and finally provides enough performance to match the sporty styling synonymous with the Scion brand. 

What catches most enthusiasts’ eyes is the sporty, sleek exterior of the new Scion FR-S.  The 2-door coupe features an aerodynamic design that not only will turn heads, but increases performance.  The sports car styling extends to the interior of the car where a pair of racing seats provides enough lateral support to keep the driver in place while accelerating around tight turns.

The sporty coupe appearance of the 2013 Scion FR-S is backed up by its performance, as well as its efficiency.  Powered by a 2.0-liter boxer 4-cylinder engine, the FR-S is able to generate 200 horsepower and 151 lb.-ft. of torque.  This power allows the FR-S to go from 0-60 mph in just 6.6 seconds. The impressive performance of the FR-S does not sacrifice fuel efficiency.  The 2013 FR-S is able to return 34 mpg highway and 30 mpg city.

If you’re interested in learning more about the all-new 2013 Scion FR-S, or in scheduling a test drive stop by Toyota of Concord near Charlotte, NC today. You can also view our inventory of other new Toyota and Scion vehicles on our web site, and follow us on Facebook for updates.

Toyota of Concord Congratulates Toyota 100 Cars for Good Finalists

Toyota has announced the finalists in the second annual Toyota 100 Cars for Good competition, which awards 100 new Toyota vehicles to 100 nonprofit organizations over 100 days.

The 500 finalists were evaluated by a panel of independent experts in areas of corporate social responsibility and philanthropy. They represent a wide range of services, including animal welfare, education, environment, arts, health, veterans’ affairs and public safety.

Finalists will be provided with a digital video camera, training toolkit and online advertising credits courtesy of Toyota, to raise awareness of their organizations and attract voters to their 100 Cars for Good campaign. Each finalist will make a video explaining how the new vehicle will help their community efforts, and the videos will be featured on Toyota’s Facebook page at www.100carsforgood.com.

Voting for the winners of Toyota 100 Cars for Good begins May 14 and continues through August 21.  Five organizations will be featured each day on Toyota’s Facebook page. A winner is chosen each day based on popular vote, and the four runners-up each day receive a $1,000 grant from Toyota.

The winning organizations have their choice of a Camry Hybrid, Highlander SUV, Prius v hybrid, Sienna minivan, Sienna Mobility or Tundra full-sized pickup, whichever new Toyota they believe best suits their needs. Toyota Financial Services will also provide a six-year, 100,000-mile powertrain warranty will also be provided for each vehicle.

Toyota of Concord was proud to participate in last year’s Toyota 100 Cars for Good contest by presenting new vehicles to two deserving local non-profits. This year, finalists from North Carolina include A Child’s Place of Charlotte, Adult Day and Health Care Services in Matthews, Bridge II Sports in Durhan, MedicForce in Almond, and project hope consulting Inc. in Charlotte. We congratulate the finalists and encourage you to vote for your favorite worthy organization.