Tag Archives: Toyota’s

Motorsport

1976 Toyota Chinook Pop-Top Camper: A Cool Way to Travel

The Toyota Chinook was a recreational vehicle made by Toyota in the 1970s. Created by Chinook Motor Coach, this compact camper featured a fiberglass shell built on a sturdy Toyota truck chassis. Around 15,000 of these campers were produced by Toyota and Chinook, but now, nearly 50 years later, they have become quite rare.

This particular 1976 Toyota Chinook, which is showcased on Bring A Trailer, has been recently refurbished. While maintaining its 1970s decor, it has been updated with new brick-patterned wallpaper, woodgrain flooring, and a foldable Naugahyde sofa bed. It has also been equipped with modern features like solar panels, a hidden Porta-Potti, and a backup camera.


ToyotaUk

The All-New 2024 Toyota Tacoma Makes Big Screen Debut in “Blue Beetle”

  • Multiple Generations of Tacoma, including a bespoke 2024 Tacoma, designed by Toyota’s CALTY Design Studio, are featured in Warner Bros. Pictures’ film “Blue Beetle”
  • Tacoma’s versatility and legacy are showcased throughout the fun-filled DC Super Hero film
  • Tacoma is the best-selling mid-size pickup for last 18 years

PLANO, Texas (August 25, 2023) – After the recent unveiling of the highly anticipated 2024 Tacoma, Toyota joined forces with DC’s newest Super Hero in his debut film, “Blue Beetle,” which premiered in theaters last week. The action-packed movie, known for its heart and humor, features different generations of the Tacoma as Jaime Reyes, the main character, undergoes a transformation after encountering an ancient piece of alien technology called the Scarab. This technology turns Jaime, a college graduate, into the hero known as The Blue Beetle.

Throughout the film, Jaime, along with his entire family, relies on their beloved 3rd generation Toyota Tacoma. The Tacoma, lovingly called the “Taco,” is particularly cherished by Jaime’s Uncle Rudy, played by George Lopez. Witness how the Blue Beetle, his family, and their trusty Tacoma conquer various challenges. Additionally, keep an eye out for a cameo appearance by the All-New 4th generation Tacoma.

To bring a unique design and paint job to the film, Toyota’s design and engineering teams worked closely with DC. Their collaboration resulted in a distinctive 2024 Tacoma design, harmoniously blending with the new Tacoma’s overall look.

Tacoma trucks have a history in Hollywood, as the 1985 Toyota SR5 Xtra Cab was prominently featured in the 1980s film “Back to the Future.” Furthermore, the first-generation Tundra made an appearance in “Terminator 3: Rise of the Machines,” and that year witnessed the sale of 600 T3 Special Edition Tundras.

The 2024 Tacoma represents the latest version of this renowned off-road 4×4, offering an available i-FORCE MAX hybrid powertrain that boasts up to 326 horsepower and 465 lb-ft. of torque. This new truck not only showcases a rugged style but also provides multiple powertrain options, 4×4 capability, and the latest safety and tech features. The 2024 Tacoma’s lineup also introduces the Trailhunter grade, specially engineered to be the ultimate overlanding vehicle. Expect to find the all-new 2024 Tacoma in dealerships by the end of the year.

About Toyota:

Toyota (NYSE:TM) has been a part of the cultural fabric in the U.S. for more than 65 years, and is committed to advancing sustainable, next-generation mobility through our Toyota and Lexus brands, plus our nearly 1,500 dealerships.

Toyota directly employs more than 49,000 people in the U.S. who have contributed to the design, engineering, and assembly of more than 33 million cars and trucks at our nine manufacturing plants. By 2025, Toyota’s 10th plant in North Carolina will begin to manufacture automotive batteries for electrified vehicles. With more electrified vehicles on the road than any other automaker, Toyota currently offers 24 electrified options.

Through its Driving Possibilities initiative, the Toyota USA Foundation has committed $110 million to create innovative educational programs within, and in partnership with, historically underserved and diverse communities near the company’s 14 U.S. operating sites.

About “Blue Beetle”:

From Warner Bros. Pictures comes the feature film “Blue Beetle,” marking the DC Super Hero’s first time on the big screen. The film, directed by Ángel Manuel Soto from a screenplay by Gareth Dunnet-Alcocer, based on characters from DC, stars Xolo Maridueña in the title role as well as his alter ego, Jaime Reyes.

Recent college grad Jaime Reyes returns home full of aspirations for his future, only to find that home is not quite as he left it. As he searches to find his purpose in the world, fate intervenes when Jaime unexpectedly finds himself in possession of an ancient relic of alien biotechnology: the Scarab. When the Scarab—called Khaji-Da—suddenly chooses Jaime to be its symbiotic host, he is bestowed with an incredible suit of armor capable of extraordinary and unpredictable powers, forever changing his destiny as he becomes the Super Hero Blue Beetle.

A Warner Bros. Pictures Presentation, a Safran Company Production, “Blue Beetle” is now in theaters only and is distributed worldwide by Warner Bros. Pictures.

ToyotaUk

Toyota Indiana Celebrates First-Ever Grand Highlander with the Announcement of a Multimillion-Dollar Community Investment

Toyota’s Driving Possibilities Commits Up to $11.1 Million to Local Schools and Organizations to Prepare Youth for the Careers of Tomorrow

PRINCETON, Ind. (Aug. 2, 2023) – Toyota Indiana today celebrated the start of production of the first-ever Grand Highlander, an all-new three row SUV. In 2021, Toyota announced an $803 million investment in Indiana to produce two all-new SUV’s. First up, the 2024 Grand Highlander, featuring the latest technology, a spacious, adult-sized third row, and plenty of cargo space for family adventures.

Today’s announcement also included a five-year, multimillion-dollar commitment to help create limitless possibilities for Indiana schools. The Toyota USA Foundation announced Driving Possibilities grants of up to $11.1 million to prepare students for future science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) careers. Driving Possibilities focuses on PreK-12 education to ensure all students have access to rewarding careers, including opportunities in the auto industry. The initial funds will be distributed through Evansville-Vanderburgh School Corporation, North Gibson School Corporation, Building Blocks and Youth First Inc. to provide access to quality PreK education, resources to support student mental health, multi-language learning, and hands-on STEM programs for students and teachers.

“Toyota is always looking to the future, by introducing new products like the Grand Highlander, and innovative community initiatives like Driving Possibilities,” said Toyota Indiana president, Leah Curry. “Driving Possibilities sets the foundation for powerful learning experiences to prepare area students for future STEM careers.”

“Today is another Toyota Terrific day for the state as they roll out their first Grand Highlanders down the production line,” said Governor Eric J. Holcomb. “And not only that—we also celebrate Toyota’s continued contribution in early learning programs, which will further help strengthen investments we’re making across the state and set the stage for some of our youngest Hoosiers to pursue a future in STEM.”

In 2022, the Toyota USA Foundation announced Driving Possibilities, a $110 million national, career readiness and community engagement initiative, launched to prepare youth for the careers of tomorrow. It is a unique approach that brings together educators, local and national nonprofits, and communities to create limitless possibilities for all. With efforts across the PreK-12 education continuum, the program is the largest and most comprehensive in Toyota’s history. The initiative is funded by Toyota USA Foundation, Toyota Motor North America (TMNA), and Toyota Financial Services (TFS).

“Our goal is to increase awareness of future STEM careers while helping build sustainable programs in the communities where our Toyota team members live and work,” said Tellis Bethel, group vice president of social innovation, Toyota. “It’s exciting to see the expansion of Driving Possibilities near our Toyota Indiana plant with up to $4.2 million in the first year and more in years to come.”

About Toyota

Toyota (NYSE:TM) has been a part of the cultural fabric in the U.S. for more than 65 years, and is committed to advancing sustainable, next-generation mobility through our Toyota and Lexus brands, plus our nearly 1,500 dealerships.

Toyota directly employs more than 49,000 people in the U.S. who have contributed to the design, engineering, and assembly of more than 33 million cars and trucks at our nine manufacturing plants. By 2025, Toyota’s 10th plant in North Carolina will begin to manufacture automotive batteries for electrified vehicles. With more electrified vehicles on the road than any other automaker, Toyota currently offers 24 electrified options.

To help inspire the next generation for a career in STEM-based fields, including mobility, Toyota launched its virtual education hub at www.TourToyota.com with an immersive experience and chance to virtually visit many of our U.S. manufacturing facilities. The hub also includes a series of free STEM-based lessons and curriculum through Toyota USA Foundation partners, virtual field trips and more. For more information about Toyota, visit www.ToyotaNewsroom.com.

About Toyota Financial Services

Toyota Financial Services (TFS) is the brand for finance and related products for Toyota in the United States, offering retail auto financing and leasing through Toyota Motor Credit Corporation (TMCC) and Toyota Lease Trust. TFS also offers vehicle and payment protection products through Toyota Motor Insurance Services (TMIS). The company services Lexus dealers and customers using the Lexus Financial Services brand.

As of March 31, 2022, TFS employed approximately 3,700 team members nationwide, and had assets totaling over $135 billion. It is part of a worldwide network of comprehensive financial services offered by Toyota Financial Services Corporation, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Toyota Motor Corporation.

About Toyota USA Foundation

The Toyota USA Foundation is a charitable endowment created to support education programs serving preK through 12th-grade students and their teachers in the United States, with an emphasis on science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). For more information about the Toyota USA Foundation, visit www.toyotaeffect.com/impact.

To learn more about Toyota’s $110 million dollar commitment to Driving Possibilities, visit ToyotaEffect.com for the latest information.

ToyotaUk

Which Toyota Electric Vehicle is Right for You?

Toyota recognizes the importance of electric vehicles (EVs) in the future of transportation. However, they understand that different drivers have different needs. That’s why Toyota’s Beyond Zero Vision is committed to providing a wide range of low and zero emissions vehicles to meet the diverse needs of customers.

In the following video overview, you will discover the various EVs available in Toyota’s lineup. Each vehicle has its own unique features and capabilities, allowing you to choose the one that best suits your lifestyle and requirements.

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2024 Toyota Land Cruiser Returns to its Origin

  • The Toyota Land Cruiser is making a comeback in North America after a three-year break.
  • The SUV stays true to its heritage as a durable off-roader and will be more affordable, with a starting price in the mid-$50,000 range.
  • It is powered by a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder hybrid engine that produces 326 horsepower and 465 lb.-ft. of torque.
  • The 2024 Land Cruiser features a 12.3-inch touchscreen with the latest Toyota Audio Multimedia system and a Multi Terrain Monitor.
  • The First Edition grade, limited to 5,000 units in North America, comes with special design features and off-road equipment.
  • All models come standard with Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, a suite of active safety features.

SALT LAKE CITY, Utah (August 1, 2023) – The Toyota Land Cruiser, an off-road icon and Toyota’s longest-running nameplate, is returning to North America for the 2024 model year. After its introduction in 1958, the Land Cruiser has evolved over time and now it is making a comeback with its rugged origin intact. This new model is designed to be a high-quality off-roader at a more accessible price point, appealing to a wider range of customers who love backcountry adventures.

Built on the TNGA-F global truck platform, the 2024 Land Cruiser is exclusively available with a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder hybrid engine, called the i-FORCE MAX, that delivers 326 horsepower and 465 lb.-ft. of torque. Compared to its predecessor, the new Land Cruiser is slightly smaller and narrower, making it more nimble on the trails. It also features off-road technology that is found in the latest Toyota trucks. The Land Cruiser will initially be offered in a limited First Edition grade, which includes special design elements and off-road equipment. Only 5,000 units will be produced for the North American market.

The 2024 Land Cruiser will be manufactured in Japan and is scheduled to arrive in the U.S. in the spring of 2024. The starting price will be in the mid-$50,000 range, with the exact pricing to be announced closer to the on-sale date.

Back to its Origin

The Land Cruiser has a rich history dating back to its introduction in the U.S. market in 1958. Over the years, it has gone through various transformations, from the iconic two-door models to the fully loaded 200 Series. Now, with its return to the North American market, the Land Cruiser maintains its heritage while offering a more affordable option for customers.

The new Land Cruiser is built on the TNGA-F platform, which provides a rigid chassis thanks to the use of high-strength steel. Compared to the previous generation, it is slightly smaller and narrower, making it more capable off-road. The design of the new Land Cruiser is inspired by its original form, with round LED headlights and a heritage grille reminiscent of the early models.

The Land Cruiser is equipped with a double-wishbone front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension, providing improved handling and comfort. It features a full-time four-wheel drive system with a center locking differential and an electronically controlled two-speed transfer case. The vehicle also comes with a range of off-road features, including Multi-Terrain Select, CRAWL Control, and a Multi-Terrain Monitor.

i-FORCE MAX Hybrid Standard

All Land Cruiser models come standard with the i-FORCE MAX hybrid powertrain, which combines a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine with an electric motor. The system produces a total output of 326 horsepower and 465 lb.-ft. of torque. The Land Cruiser also features a full-time four-wheel drive system with several off-road capabilities, such as a rear differential lock and advanced traction control.

An Off-Road Icon

The Land Cruiser has always been known for its off-road capabilities, and the 2024 model is no exception. It comes with a range of features designed to enhance its performance off the beaten path. These include a front stabilizer bar disconnect, improved approach and departure angles, increased ground clearance, and rock rails and skid plates for added protection. The Land Cruiser also offers a Multi-Terrain Select system, which allows the driver to adjust the traction control and throttle response depending on the terrain.

A Connected Cruiser

The 2024 Land Cruiser comes with a range of connectivity and convenience features. The 1958 grade features an 8.0-inch touchscreen, while the Land Cruiser grade comes with a 12.3-inch touchscreen and an available 14-speaker JBL premium sound system. Both grades support wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. The Land Cruiser also offers various safety features, including blind spot monitoring, rear cross traffic alert, and Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, which includes several advanced driver-assistance systems.

Simple Grade Structure

The Land Cruiser will be available in three grades: Land Cruiser 1958, Land Cruiser, and the limited First Edition. All models come with a range of standard features, and an available premium package adds additional luxury and convenience options. The Land Cruiser will be offered in seven exterior colors, including two two-tone options with a Grayscape roof.

Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 Standard

All 2024 Land Cruiser models come standard with Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, a suite of advanced safety and driver-assistance systems. This includes features such as pre-collision detection, lane departure alert with steering assist, adaptive cruise control, lane tracing assist, and road sign assist.

Beyond Zero Vision

The 2024 Land Cruiser is part of Toyota’s commitment to a carbon-neutral future. It is one of the many electrified vehicles offered by Toyota, with a focus on hybrid technology. Toyota currently offers 16 electrified models, including hybrids, plug-in hybrids, and fuel cell vehicles.

Limited Warranty

The 2024 Land Cruiser is covered by Toyota’s standard warranty, which includes a 36-month/36,000 mile basic warranty, a 60-month powertrain warranty, and an 8-year/100,000 mile warranty for hybrid-related components. Toyota also offers two years of complimentary maintenance and roadside assistance through ToyotaCare.

Cars

Ranking of the Most Fuel Efficient Hybrid SUVs

The 2023 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid is considered one of the most fuel-efficient options among hybrid SUVs. It has a starting price of $31,225 and combines a 40-mpg fuel efficiency rating, according to EPA estimates. This rating is based on achieving approximately 41 mpg in the city and 38 mpg on the highway. The RAV4 Hybrid is equipped with a 2.5L Dynamic Force 4-cylinder engine, along with front and rear electric motors, resulting in a combined power output of 219 horsepower. It offers an 8- or 10.5-inch touchscreen for selecting options and features a voice command system activated with the phrase “Hey, Toyota.” Additionally, the 2023 RAV4 Hybrid is compatible with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM radio. Some models also come with a JBL Premium Audio system featuring 11 speakers placed in nine different locations, including a subwoofer.

The 2023 RAV4 Hybrid includes a range of convenient features such as Qi wireless charging, a brake hold function, and heated or ventilated front seats. In terms of safety, this hybrid SUV is equipped with a pre-collision system that includes pedestrian detection and automatic emergency braking. It also has automatic high beams in certain conditions, lane departure alerts with steering and lane-tracing assist, adaptive cruise control, and road sign assist.

The interior of the 2023 RAV4 Hybrid offers ample space, with 41 inches of legroom in the front seats and 37.8 inches in the second row. The second-row seats are designed with a 60/40-split folding feature. With the seats positioned upright, the vehicle provides 37.5 cubic feet of cargo space. The fuel tank has a capacity of 14.5 gallons, and the maximum towing capacity stands at 1,750 pounds.

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Toyota Auto Insurance Expands to Colorado, Georgia and Oregon

Toyota’s premier auto insurance product continues its national rollout

PLANO, Texas (July 10, 2023) – Toyota Auto Insurance, the automaker’s branded insurance product, is now available to customers residing in the states of Colorado, Georgia and Oregon. Introduced to select markets in 2021, Toyota Auto Insurance offers customers quality, customizable coverage at affordable rates. Now, Toyota Auto Insurance customers in the Centennial State, the Peach State and the Beaver State will be able to receive an immediate upfront discount and may be able to save even more with good driver, good student, or multipolicy discounts.*

Toyota Auto Insurance offers consumers a quick, easy and flexible policy purchase process via Toyota’s state-of-the-art mobile app, call center agents, participating Toyota dealerships and the ToyotaAutoInsurance.com website. The insurance may be applied to both Toyota and non-Toyota vehicles in a customer’s household.

“We’re excited to continue our rollout of Toyota Auto Insurance, expanding our reach to even more customers,” said Rob Spencer, Toyota Insurance President. “We look forward to offering our customers in Colorado, Georgia and Oregon exceptional value and top-tier service to enhance their Toyota ownership experience.”

Currently, Toyota Auto Insurance is available in Arizona, California, Colorado, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Missouri, Ohio, Oregon, South Carolina, Tennessee and Texas. Toyota Auto Insurance customers benefit from more than 90 years of insurance insights, knowledge, and award-winning claims support—all provided by Toggle, part of Farmers Insurance®.

Interested customers can visit ToyotaAutoInsurance.com to obtain a quote and purchase insurance. Customers may also call (877) 249-0086 with any questions.

*Coverage options and discounts vary by state.

About Toyota Insurance

Toyota Insurance is a brand name of Toyota Insurance Management Solutions USA, LLC (TIMS), an independent licensed insurance agency specializing in Property & Casualty insurance offerings, partnering with top insurance companies to allow customers to choose the best options for their needs. TIMS is a Delaware-domiciled limited liability company with its principal place of business at 7600 Windrose Avenue, Suite G240, Plano, TX 75024, USA. In California, TIMS operates under the name Toyota Insurance Management Solutions, LLC and license number 0L46875. For information about Toyota Insurance, please visit www.toyotainsurance.com.

About Toggle®

Toyota Auto Insurance is underwritten by Toggle Insurance Company in Arizona, Colorado, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Missouri, Ohio, Oregon, and Tennessee, by Mid-Century Insurance Company in South Carolina, Farmers Texas County Mutual Insurance Company in Texas, and 21st Century Casualty Company in California (#3134-4, domiciled in California). Toggle is a new kind of insurance company backed by the stability of Farmers®️, with over 90 years of experience delivering best in class service and claims. Founded in 2018, Toggle is reimagining the insurance industry by creating unique products and embedded experiences for today’s modern consumers and brands. The company offers fully digital insurance solutions and provides customers and brand partners with simple, affordable, and highly customizable products to fit their needs. For more information, visit www.gettoggle.com.

Cars

9 Awesome Toyotas Everyone Forgets About

One of the most interesting and impressive Toyotas that often goes unnoticed is the Mega Cruiser. It can be considered as the Japanese version of the Hummer. Initially designed for military purposes, the Mega Cruiser quickly gained popularity among civilians. Measuring over 16 feet long and 7 feet wide, this truck had enough space for six people and could carry up to 1,650 pounds of cargo. Due to its impressive capabilities, it was commonly used as a remote rescue vehicle. Emergency services also developed several units for their operations. However, many buyers were drawn to the Mega Cruiser simply because it was the largest and most capable off-road truck ever produced by a Japanese manufacturer.

Although the Mega Cruiser was officially sold only in Japan, it can now be found in various international markets where all-terrain trucks are highly sought after. Russia, Australia, and the United States are among the most common countries where these trucks are exported. However, owning one does not come cheap. When it was first launched in 1995, the Mega Cruiser had a price tag equivalent to $233,000 in today’s money. Even today, when they occasionally appear for sale, they can still command a similar price. Production of this SUV continued until 2001, and a total of just over 100 civilian Mega Cruisers were manufactured during that time.