2012 Toyota Camry Wins Back Top Spot, Releases New Sport Edition

2012 Toyota Camry

While the Toyota Camry celebrates taking the top spot at the top-sellling vehicle in the country for the first half of 2012, prospective Camry buyers can celebrate by ordering the limited-time, special edition Toyota Camry SE Sport Limited.

Experian Automotive reported this week that the Camry reclaimed the best-selling title this year, selling 209,000 units, after slipping to number two last year amid recall issues and supply shortages caused by Japan’s tsunami.

This announcement came just after Toyota began a limited production of the Toyota Camry SE Sport Limited edition, which will only be built until early November, 2012.

The Camry SE Sport Limited adds 18-inch alloy wheels with a smoked finish, and eight-way power driver seat, power tilt/slide moonroof, and a 6.1-inch touch-screen monitor with navigation and Entune to the regular Camry SE trim. Features found in the regular SE trim, including enhanced suspension and steering, leather-wrapped steering wheel, and power shifters, are also present in the SE Sport Limited.

The Toyota Camry SE Sport Limited is powered by a 2.5L four-cylinder engine, delivering 178 horsepower and 170 lb-ft of torque. The engine is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. Available colors include Attitude Black, Barcelona Red, and Blizzard Pearl, all with a choice black or ash interior color.

For details about the new Toyota Camry SE Sport or any other Toyota vehicle, visit Toyota Scion of Concord online or in person near Charlotte, NC today. Our sales staff will be happy to answer any questions and help you choose the right new Toyota or other used car for your needs. You can also follow us on Facebook and Twitter for other exciting news about Toyota product offerings.

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.