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Don't miss out on an opportunity to save $THOUSANDS on a used vehicle! 1 Day Only: Saturday, May 1st at Toyota of Wallingford. Prices on over 2 million dollars in used inventory from cars, trucks, to suvs in all makes and models from Toyota, Scion, BMW, Ford, Nissan, Mazda, Chevrolet and more will be slashed! We have several cars that are not listed in our online inventory that will be also be available for this 1 day event! Cars as low as $99.00! Inventory Reduction Sale! Gates open at 9:00 AM. Be here early for best selection!

Source: Insurance Institute of Highway Safety

 

The Scion xB and Toyota Corolla bring to seven the number of small cars consumers have to choose from that earn the Institute's highest safety designation. To qualify for Top Safety Pick, a vehicle must earn the highest rating of good in the Institute's front, side, rollover, and rear impact tests and be equipped with electronic stability control.

The xB and Corolla are the first Toyota models to earn Top Safety Pick since the Institute tightened the criteria to win by adding the new rollover test for 2010.

To earn a good rollover rating, a roof has to support the equivalent of 4 times the vehicle's weight compared with the current federal standard of 1.5. In the Institute's test, the xB's roof withstood a force equal to 6.8 times the car's weight. The Corolla's roof supported 5.1 times the car's weight.

Read more about the Institute's rollover test here: http://www.iihs.org/ratings/roof/information.html

The xB and Corolla also earned the 2009 Top Safety Pick award.

"Top Safety Pick recognizes the vehicles that afford buyers the best overall protection in common crashes," says Institute president Adrian Lund. "With more top performers, there's no reason to buy a small car with less than stellar crash test ratings."

Check out our Toyota Corolla Inventory


Check out our Scion XB Inventory

Another Toyota Tundra Monster Truck is on the Monster Jam circuit joining Pat Summas Thrasher thanks to Toyota of Wallingford. Kyle Chandler of Chandler Motorsports in Berwick Maine does his high flying car crushing performances in a 2007 Toyota Tundra body!


Kyle Chandler
DRIVER INFORMATION
Driver name: Kyle Chandler
Residence: Berwick,Maine
Birthplace: Dover, New Hampshire
Date of birth: July 30, 1980
Years competing: 2 years
Marital status: Married
Children: None - 2 dogs
DRIVER HISTORY
Kyle began at the age of 11 racing go carts. He then moved onto stock cars, then mud trucks and mud skippers, "ride trucks" that he would ride around in at shows and lastly he moved onto the race trucks. At the beginning of his career he started out driving for someone else, before purchasing a truck of his own. At the age of 20, he started driving his first truck. Prior to that he was an automotive technician, but once he got his own truck, he became a full time driver and works only part time as an auto technician. His goal for the upcoming season is to make it to the World Finals, while keeping his truck in one piece. So far in his career, Kyle's favorite career highlight was his 1st show in Pennsylvania for USHRA, not too long ago. He also enjoys racing against the American Guardian and Bad News because they have the most fun off the track helping each other out, and he says they are good competition. On the road, his favorite stop is at the Tampa Stadium because there is a lot of room and a huge crowd. He differs from all the other drivers because he has a style that makes his parents and wife nervous. The advice he has to give to others is stay in school, get an education and if that's what you want to do?follow your dreams.
FUN FACTS
Favorite food: Steak and cheese sandwiches
Favorite color: Red
Type of music you listen to: Country
Favorite song: None
Hobbies: Racing and Dog Training
Superstitions? None
Favorite movie: Days of Thunder
Favorite TV show: Dukes of Hazzard
The plug in Prius that many of you have been asking about may soon be a reality at Toyota of Wallingford sooner than we think.

Straight from AutoBlog:
 by Sebastian Blanco

It's been two-and-a-half years since we last got behind the wheel of a plug-in Toyota Prius. The name is the same, but today's plug-in Prius is a totally different vehicle, and it was high time to see what changes Toyota has made to their plug-in hybrid (PHEV) in its ongoing effort to slowly get the car ready for the U.S. market.

Back in late 2007, the prototype had a NiMH battery pack and the converted vehicle was based on the second-generation model. The new fleet of PHEV Priuses in San Diego this week as part of Toyota's Sustainable Mobility Seminar are converted 2010 third-generation models, featuring upgraded lithium-ion packs.

Toyota has brought the PHEV Prius fleet to the U.S. to begin a two-year test and monitoring period. The vehicles are equipped with transmitters from Qualcomm that record not only driver behavior, but also how often the car is plugged in. We'll have more information soon with technical details about the mules and an explanation of Toyota's plans to test and sell the long-awaited plug-in hatchback for 2012. But before then, we wanted to grab some seat time.

The short version is that driving a plug-in Prius is almost exactly like driving a standard one, except that it remains quieter for a longer period as the engine is off more often (during short distances) thanks to a larger battery pack and improved all-electric performance. Acceleration, handling, braking - everything feels awfully familiar. Make the jump to find out more, including how you can now go up to 64 mph without using a single drop of fuel.

Sixty-four mph was the highest speed we managed to achieve while staying in pure EV mode, and it turns out that most of our two, 10-mile loops were completed using battery power (we managed 70 percent on the highway loop, then 83 percent on the city loop when we started with a full pack). The newest PHEV Priuses have a maximum all-electric range of around 13-14 miles, compared to the seven miles in the plug-in version of the second-gen Prius.

In the new models, driving on all-electric power is indicated by a green car image that says "EV" in the driver information screen (see below). If the engine kicks in, then this picture turns to a simple, empty outline. This is useful, because when you're traveling at highway speeds, you can't always tell when the engine turns on. When you're driving in quiet locations, then the engine is noticeable, but other than that, the EV light is your only signal that you've moved from electrons to dead dino-juice.


This all reinforces the impression that the new plug-in Prius is just a more advanced version of the regular car you can buy today. You start the car the same way (but now the button is a nice blue color) and shift and steer just like always. The plug-in even has three driver-selectable modes - Eco, Power and Standard - that are similar to the options in the third-gen Prius (there, though, the choices are Eco, Power and EV).

The main feature of Eco mode in the new PHEV Prius is that the pedal becomes more physically difficult to depress, and so the throttle is opened at a smoother rate during acceleration. In practice, this makes the go pedal less responsive, which will annoy anyone who wants to speed away from a red light - an unlikely scenario for the average plug-in Prius owner. In any case, when you really push the pedal down, then the charge/power bar moves all the way into the red on the right side of the screen. This is a visual cue that should be quite familiar to anyone who drives a standard 2010 Prius. Noticing a trend?



Except for the few seconds it takes to plug and unplug the car each day, the current version of the PHEV Prius is the regular Prius, just with better fuel economy. How much fuel does it use? As with all plug-ins, the answer depends on how far you drive each day. For us, on our short routes, the info screens in our test cars read 99.9 mpg. If we had driven much further, we would undoubtedly have seen a serious decrease as we exceeded the car's EV range, but we imagine drivers can expect to get mpg numbers easily in the upper 50s on most days. Thanks, batteries. By the way, those cells take around three hours to top off from a standard 110 outlet and each vehicle comes with a chargre unit that plugs into a standard outlet and feeds the car juice through a J1772 connector.

What else is different about these cars and the regular 2010 Prius? Well, these models have the PHEV-specific blue mica metallic paint color, the trunk floor is raised up about two inches (see here) to make room for an extra 220 pounds of batteries and there are some cooling vents under the back seat. The batteries are in one pack, but are divided into three modules. One module is for the standard hybrid system, while two are dedicated to the EV drive. We don't quite understand why Toyota felt the need to separate the pack into three parts, but asking some questions about this setup is one of many things at the top of our list once we get to spend some time with an engineer. Stay tuned for that, and more.
Toyota has recently announced it has created a new "SMART" business process to investigate customer reports of unintended acceleration in Toyota vehicles in the United States.  This process will utilize existing product engineers, field technical specialists and specially trained technicians to investigate customer claims. 

SMART stands for "Swift Market Analysis Response Team" and will be used to contact customers within 24 hours of receiving a complaint about unintended acceleration.  They will arrange for a comprehensive on-site vehicle analysis.  As part of the SMART program, dealerships will utilize structured business processes and materials to address owners' concerns or reported experiences with unintended acceleration.

"As Toyota's President Akio Toyoda told Congress in February, we are committed to listening to our customers even more intently and addressing their concerns even more promptly.  Our multi-tiered SMART approach is just one of the many steps we are taking to make sure that Toyota sets an even higher standard" said Steve St. Angelo, Toyota chief quality officer for North America.

"There has been a great deal of confusion, speculation and misinformation about unintended acceleration in the past several weeks. We believe judgments should be based on reliable evidence, and our SMART business process is there to help provide information upon which such judgments can be made. As we did in two recent, much-publicized cases in San Diego, California and Harrison, New York, we will continue to work in close partnership with law enforcement agencies and federal regulators with jurisdiction over accidents whenever requested," St. Angelo said.

The size and configuration of each SMART team will vary based on the specific circumstances of each report and vehicle involved, and will incorporate engineering and product experts from across Toyota's North American operations, including:

-    Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc. (TMS) in Torrance, California
-    Toyota Motor Engineering and Manufacturing North America (TEMA) in Erlanger, Kentucky and Toyota Technical Center (TTC) in Ann Arbor, Michigan
-    Toyota Regional Sales Offices
-    Lexus Area Sales Offices
-    Private Distributors

Toyota has provided dealers in the United States with the information they need to assist vehicle owners with concerns about unintended acceleration and to arrange a SMART evaluation. The information includes guidance on how to help owners, ranging from those with concerns about their vehicle to those who report experiencing unintended acceleration and were involved in an accident.

Detailed information and answers to questions are available to customers at the Toyota Customer Experience Center at 1-800-331-4331.
Toyota has been ranked 36th by DiversityInc in their recent publication's tenth annual diversity survey.  Toyota has moved up 4 positions from #40 last year and competed against 449 other companies in this year's survey.  DiversityInc gathers data from a detailed survey and rates the companies based on the results.  The following strengths are shared by the top 50 companies: CEO Commitment, Human Capital, Corporate and Organizational Communications, and Supplier Diversity.

Dian Ogilvie, Senior Vice President and Chief Diversity Officer at Toyota Motor North America said "At Toyota, we believe continued growth toward a more inclusive culture is necessary for business success.  We thank DiversityInc for recognizing our efforts and pledge to continue to strive for diversity in every aspect of our business."

"Toyota clearly recognizes that a diverse workforce changes the character and culture of a company for the better.  The fact that Toyota moved up in our annual survey, in a very competitive environment, underscores their commitment to diversity management as a driver of business goals" added Luke Visconti, CEO of DiversityInc.

Toyota has plans to keep their company moving up the DiversityInc's list in the 2010 survey and continues its commitment to diversity in the workplace.

Toyota April Incentives Announced

Toyota announced the new incentives for April after finishing up a great March! 0% financing and great lease deals continue! CLICK HERE to check them out!


All-New 2011 iQ and tC Unvieled at NY Auto Show


NEW YORK (March 31, 2010) - A New Dimension of Scion was unveiled today with two new production vehicles - the all-new 2011 iQ premium micro-subcompact and the second-generation 2011 tC sports coupe - at the New York International Auto Show.  The tC is scheduled to arrive in dealerships later this fall, while the iQ will go on sale in early 2011.
 
"Scion prides itself on being an innovative brand with a lineup of iconic vehicles that set automotive trends," said Jack Hollis, vice president of Scion.  "The iQ will define the premium micro-subcompact segment as the choice for new urbanites who want clever transportation without a sacrifice in style or new features."
 
"The all-new tC features styling that is both refined and aggressive, appealing to a sports coupe owner who wants to make a bold statement.  The tC has had the youngest median age buyer in the industry, and with more power, superior driving dynamics, and increased fuel efficiency, that should remain the case with the new tC as well."
  
iQ Defines Premium Micro-Subcompact
Meeting the needs of a new trendsetting generation of urban drivers, the iQ succeeds at taking big ideas and concentrating them into a small package.  Made possible by intelligent and functional packaging, the iQ is a small car that offers the functionality and comfort that drivers expect from a car twice its size.
 
The iQ's profile, defined by a strong and high beltline, glides from the large, stout headlamps, up the A-pillar, across the roof and wraps around the rear, emphasizing the iQ's geometric shape. Side mirrors with integrated turn signals accent the clean design. 
 
The rear emphasizes the vehicle's modern style.  Trapezoidal lines run toward the wheels, from the hatch to the bumper's rear diffuser-like accent, creating a substantial presence. With a 78.7-inch wheelbase and a unique suspension design - consisting of MacPherson struts up front, and a torsion beam rear suspension - the three-door hatchback can deftly maneuver through city traffic.  In addition, its overall length of only 120.1-inches, width of 66.1-inches, and short front and rear overhangs create a confident stance that still allows the iQ to fit into virtually any urban parking scenario.
 
Engineering innovations like a compact air-conditioning unit, inverted front-mounted differential, and electronic power-steering system with compact steering column, all amount to significant decreases in front-end length.  In addition, the iQ is equipped with a flat gas tank housed beneath the floor that reduces rear overhang.
 
The iQ's functional "3+1" seating equates to the world's smallest four-passenger vehicle.  With the driver's and front-passenger's seats being slightly off set, this innovative seating arrangement allows for one adult behind the front passenger and a child, small package, or pet behind the driver.  A first for Scion, extra-slim front seat backs are utilized to provide rear passengers with ample legroom.  The rear seats are extremely versatile, featuring a 50/50 split and the ability to fold flat, creating enough storage to accommodate up to two golf bags.
 
The iQ is small in size but large on safety.  Active safety features include Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), an anti-lock brake system (ABS) with Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA) and Traction Control (TRAC).
 
The iQ will come standard with 10 SRS airbags, including the world's first rear-window curtain airbag.  Other airbags include driver- and front-passenger airbags; driver- and front-passenger seat-mounted side airbags; side curtain airbags; driver- and front-passenger knee airbags; and a Scion-first driver seat-cushion airbag.
 
The 2011 iQ is equipped with a 1.3-liter, four-cylinder engine that produces over 90 horsepower and features the latest dual VVT-i, which allows it to be impressively efficient, providing a broader powerband yet requiring less fuel and generating fewer emissions.
 
The iQ's engine is combined with a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) that helps deliver smooth acceleration and excellent fuel efficiency.  The iQ will be rated as an Ultra Low Emission Vehicle (ULEV-II), and it is expected to achieve a combined fuel economy in the high 30s, comparable to similar vehicles that feature less passenger and cargo capacity.
 
The iQ comes standard with a six-speaker audio system and is available with multiple audio head units for various degrees of audiophiles.  All iQs will be outfitted with USB and auxiliary ports, allowing personal devices to be easily integrated into the car.  Steering-wheel-mounted controls command the audio system to adjust volume and shuffle through music sources such as CD, AM/FM, auxiliary input, or a library from your iPodŽ or other USB device.
 
All-New tC Sports Coupe Adds Power, Performance
Launched in 2004, the tC quickly became Scion's top-selling vehicle, at the same time attracting the youngest buyer in the entire industry.  Six years later, the second-generation tC emerges with an aggressive new look, increased driving performance, and a more premium feel.
 
Enhanced performance is accomplished in the second-generation tC with an all-new 2.5-liter inline four-cylinder engine with dual VVT-i that generates 180 horsepower, 19 more than the previous model, and 11 additional lbs.-ft of torque.  In addition to increases in power, the new engine delivers an increase in fuel economy all while lowering emissions.  Performance is further improved and heard through a new intake manifold design and a sport-tuned exhaust system that delivers a bold and aggressive sound.
 
The tC features two all-new transmissions: the six-speed manual transmission has improved shift-feel and adds to the car's already fun-to-drive character, and a new six-speed automatic gains two gears along with sequential-shift.
 
The 2011 tC enters its second-generation riding on a new platform, including a specially tuned MacPherson strut front-suspension and a double-wishbone rear-suspension that rides lower than the previous model.   Larger 18-inch aluminum-alloy wheels are wrapped in wider tires, giving the tC a broader stance and elevated handling characteristics.  The new model also comes standard with larger 16-inch disc brakes on all corners.  A new performance-tuned electronic power-steering system provides the driver a confident feel that is more in-tune with the road.  The elements brought together in the new chassis result in a premium performance that expands the tC into a new dimension of driving enjoyment.
 
The all-new design of the 2011 tC projects a bolder and more aggressive stance.  Important design cues like the helmet-inspired cabin shape were adopted from the Calty-designed Scion FUSE concept, which was unveiled at the 2006 New York Auto Show.  The protruding fender flares amplify its wider, lower stance and are aggressively complemented by a sleek front grille and projector headlamps.  The shape of the rear taillights flow cleanly into the overall shape of the trunk.
 
Inside, a driver-focused cockpit starts with a sporty new three-spoke steering wheel that features a flat bottom and a new shape that offers a confident grip.  Front seats feature robust bolsters that provide secure positioning while still offering spaciousness and comfort.  The instrument-panel, gauge cluster and center-console all face inward in a V-shape, making controls easily accessible.
 
Overall, the cabin has been lengthened for a more comfortable passenger experience with increased versatility.  Utility is enhanced with reclining rear seats that split 60/40, providing more storage capacity.  The panoramic moonroof remains standard in the new tC.
 
The new tC comes standard with an AM/FM/CD/USB audio system that features eight speakers.  As with all Scion models, steering-wheel-mounted controls allow the driver to easily navigate through all of their music.
 
The new tC is also reinforced with key safety features and is expected to achieve top safety ratings.  In addition to standard Anti-lock Brakes (ABS), the new tC also gains standard Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), traction control (TRAC), Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist (BA).  Active front-headrests and eight airbags are also standard, including both driver and front-passenger knee airbags.
 
SCION iQ and tC
PRELIMINARY SPECIFICATIONS
 
2011 SCION iQ
POWERTRAIN       
Engine:    1.3-liter, 4-cylinder with Dual VVT-i    
Drivetrain:  Front-wheel drive   
Transmission:  Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)
 
DIMENSIONS (inches)
Overall Length: 120.1      
Overall Width:    66.1       
Overall Height: 59.1        
Wheelbase:  78.7     
Seating Capacity: 4   
  
2011 SCION tC
POWERTRAIN  
Engine:    2.5-liter, 4-cylinder with Dual VVT-i 
Drivetrain:  Front-wheel drive
Transmission:  6-speed M/T or 6-speed A/T with Sequential-Shift
 
DIMENSIONS (inches)
Overall Length: 174.0
Overall Width:    70.7
Overall Height: 55.7   
Wheelbase:  106.3
Seating Capacity: 5
 
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