Battery Check

Before outdoor temperatures dip towards freezing, be sure to have your car’s battery tested and inspected. More energy is required to crank the engine on cold days. If the battery has become weak, it’s only a matter of time before your vehicle fails to start.

Modern car batteries are typically rated to last between three to five years. The best approach is to replace an older unit ahead of time. You’ll definitely appreciate the extra peace of mind.

Heater Inspection

When Old Winter Winter arrives, you’ll rely on your car’s HVAC system to keep the cabin warm and toasty. The heater needs to be performing at its best. If it begins to blow out cool air, there’s a definite problem.

A low level of engine antifreeze tends to be the most common cause of trouble. You could be dealing with a slow leak, which should be repaired as soon as possible. A bad thermostat that has failed in the open position will also result in your heater not working.

Tire Check

Cold conditions can cause tire pressure to drop. This is why Toyota experts advise checking the pressure at least once a month. Tires not inflated to the recommended psi often wear down sooner than expected. Even worse, they provide less traction on slick road surfaces. Your vehicle’s braking distance will be longer than usual.

Heavily worn tires should be replaced before winter kicks into full gear. Although high-quality tires may cost more, you will appreciate the improved handling and control.

Oil Check

Most Toyota owners recognize the importance of getting timely oil changes. This important maintenance item can extend the life of your vehicle by thousands of miles. However, selecting the correct type of motor oil is just as critical. Using the wrong oil can lead to several different problems, including increased engine wear and leaks.

Too thick of an oil grade makes it difficult for the engine to turn over on frigid mornings. This ultimately puts extra strain on the car’s starter and battery. Your Toyota service technician may suggest switching to an oil specially formulated for winter use.

Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid

If you have a big family, take a look at the all-new Grand Highlander Hybrid. This three-row SUV’s extra space gives everyone the freedom to stretch out. Up to eight people can climb inside. Its versatile cargo area also allows you to pack a lot of extra gear.

With a combined EPA fuel economy rating of 36 mpg, the Grand Highlander Hybrid is definitely worthy of a weekend adventure. Its hybrid powertrain also develops a healthy 245 horsepower, thus enabling you to enjoy a responsive performance. In the event that you decide to venture off the beaten path, this SUV’s available AWD system will help ensure optimum traction.

Toyota Prius

For good reason, the redesigned Toyota Prius remains one of today’s most popular hybrid cars. Because of this eco-friendly hatchback’s superb fuel efficiency and proven reliability, it’s great for daily commuting. An elevated level of performance also makes the latest Prius more engaging to drive than ever before. Fortunately, harmful exhaust emissions are still kept to a minimum.

Although the Prius is built for supreme efficiency, it now looks especially sporty. This car’s smooth curves and sharp details promise to attract a lot of attention. The new Prius also gives you quite a few cool exterior colors to choose from, including Supersonic Red and Reservoir Blue.

Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid

The new Corolla Cross Hybrid is one of the hottest compact SUVs on the market. It’s perfect for drivers who enjoy weekend getaways. You’ll love the Corolla Cross Hybrid’s fuel-efficient powertrain. According to the EPA, it can return a combined 42 mpg on regular gas. With 196 horsepower on tap, this SUV also packs more than enough muscle for you to have some serious fun.

While the Corolla Cross Hybrid is a pleasure to drive on the street, it also has an adventurous side. Electronic On-Demand All-Wheel Drive comes standard, thus enabling you to go further into the wilderness. You will also appreciate this crossover’s 8.0 inches of ground clearance.

Performance

All three of these pickup trucks can deliver a strong performance. The Tacoma comes standard with a proven 2.7-liter, four-cylinder engine. It develops a competitive 159 horsepower and 180 lb-ft of torque. Drivers who need more muscle for towing can upgrade to a 3.5-liter, Atkinson-cycle V6 engine with direct injection. Output increases to an impressive 278 horsepower and 265 lb-ft of torque.

In contrast to the Chevrolet Colorado and the Ford Ranger, the Tacoma can be equipped with a six-speed manual transmission. This exclusive feature appeals to drivers who enjoy rowing through the gears. They will have complete control over the shifting.

Another big advantage for the Toyota Tacoma is its reputation for being remarkably bulletproof. Toyota engineered this truck to last for years to come. Regarding long-term reliability, both the Ford Ranger and the Colorado are a step below the Tacoma. Whether running errands or taking a long road trip, you can trust the Tacoma to deliver a dependable performance. You can drive with additional peace of mind.

Off-Road Capabilities

The Chevy Colorado and the Ford Ranger are rugged enough for trail use. Nevertheless, it’s hard to rival the Tacoma’s legendary off-road capabilities. Several adventurous features are available.

Crawl Control technology helps you conquer challenging terrain by automatically modulating the throttle and brakes on five low-speed settings. Another available upgrade is Toyota’s Multi-Terrain Monitor. At the press of a button, this feature allows you to check your surroundings for potential obstacles. Some other upgrades for the Tacoma include high-performance Bilstein shocks, an electronically locking rear differential, and heavy-duty skid plates.

Safety Features

Regardless of where you go, safety should always remain a top priority. The Toyota Tacoma lets you and your passengers experience a safe drive. Toyota Safety Sense P comes standard on the Tacoma. It gives you several advanced safety technologies, including Dynamic Radar Cruise Control and a Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection. To get adaptive cruise control on the Ranger and the Colorado, you must pay extra. Yet another big advantage for the Tacoma is its standard front knee airbags, which give occupants greater protection.

Advanced All-Wheel-Drive Systems

The base Toyota RAV4 gives you access to an optional AWD system, which automatically seeks to improve traction when encountering slippery conditions. It’s perfect for most excursions. However, an even more advanced Dynamic Torque Vectoring AWD system is featured on the ultra-rugged TRD Off-Road trim. You’ll appreciate the extra grip upon approaching more challenging terrain.

The RAV4 Hybrid also gives you access to all-wheel drive. This is good news for folks who are seeking extra fuel savings. Toyota’s available Electronic On-Demand AWD system transforms the SUV into a more capable adventure machine.

Rugged Features

When it comes to venturing off the beaten path, the RAV4 ranks among the best small SUVs in its class. With up to 8.6 inches of ground clearance, it can easily topple most obstacles. There are also plenty of rugged features available.

Models equipped with all-wheel drive benefit from Multi-Terrain Select. This system is designed to optimize traction on different surfaces. Choose between MUD & SAND, ROCK & DIRT, SNOW, and NORMAL driving modes. Available all-terrain tires and an engine oil cooler aid the RAV4’s ability to dominate rough landscapes.

If you need enhanced capabilities, look no further than the RAV4 TRD Off-Road. It comes equipped with an exclusive TRD-tuned suspension, thus giving you greater control on more daunting trails. Meanwhile, skid plates provide an extra barrier of protection against debris.

Strong, Responsive Engines

Most drivers will be more than happy with the performance of the RAV4’s standard four-cylinder engine. It develops a competitive 203 horsepower. This is enough muscle to confidently ascend hills and churn through mud-soaked trails. The RAV4 can also tow up to 3,500 pounds when equipped with all-wheel drive. You can haul your favorite toys, including ATVs and small boats.

Rated to develop a combined 219 horsepower, the RAV4 Hybrid is also a solid performer. You can take the scenic route while saving extra at the pump. Another option is the exciting RAV4 Prime. Its plug-in hybrid powertrain develops a staggering 302 horsepower. Look forward to experiencing blistering acceleration.

Fuel-Saving Hybrid Powertrains

The Grand Highlander’s available 2.5-liter, four-cylinder hybrid engine enables you to enjoy enhanced fuel efficiency. It also develops a competitive 245 horsepower, which is more than enough muscle for the needs of most families. Whether you’re running daily errands or taking a holiday road trip, you’ll be able to save extra at the pump. Fuel economy tops out an EPA-estimated 36 mpg combined. Few three-row SUVs in the class are as frugal. When you want to achieve peak fuel efficiency, simply switch to the SUV’s Eco Mode. Meanwhile, activating the Sport Mode allows you to experience a more responsive performance.

If you need more muscle, look no further than the Grand Highlander’s available Hybrid MAX engine. It’s rated to generate a combined 362 horsepower and 400 lb-ft of torque. Expect acceleration to be especially strong. Even with the extra brawn under the hood, drivers can still look forward to getting up to an EPA-estimated 27 mpg combined. You can also take advantage of the Grand Highlander Hybrid MAX’s more formidable 5,000-pound towing capacity. From fishing boats to travel trailers, you can confidently transport these with ease.

Adventurous Features

Don’t underestimate the Grand Highlander Hybrid MAX’s ability to take your family on an epic adventure. The Electronic On-Demand AWD system enables you to venture off the beaten path more confidently. When the system detects slippery conditions, it automatically seeks to improve traction. Trail Mode further enhances the SUV’s ability to conquer the great outdoors. Choose from Mud & Sand, Rock & Dirt, Snow, and Normal settings.

The Grand Highlander Hybrid MAX offers a Full-Time Electronic AWD system. It gives you outstanding control over rugged terrain. The system also aids straight-line stability and acceleration.

Eco-Friendly Features

Families looking to go green will love this SUV’s eco-friendly features. The Grand Highlander Hybrid is a low-emissions vehicle, which means you can lower your carbon footprint. A Hybrid System Indicator comes standard on the hybrid models. By keeping you aware of important hybrid information, the system helps you to drive more efficiently.

Towing and Payload Capacity

The Toyota Tacoma gives you two bulletproof engines to choose from. A 2.7-liter, four-cylinder engine comes standard. It develops a competitive 159 horsepower and 180 lb-ft of torque, thus enabling you to tow up to 3,500 pounds. You can also take advantage of the pickup truck’s 1,685-pound maximum payload capacity.

Towing Features

When behind the wheel of the Toyota Tacoma, you can trust its modern towing features to boost your confidence. With the truck’s available Tow Package comes Trailer-Sway Control. In the event that your load begins to shift or the wind kicks up, this feature effectively applies brake pressure at individual wheels and manages engine torque. You’ll appreciate the enhanced stability.

If you are towing heavier cargo, underhood temperatures can rise. To help prevent overheating, Toyota offers the Tacoma with a beefed-up cooling system. An engine oil cooler, a power steering cooler, and a transmission fluid cooler help protect your pickup’s critical components.

Another important upgrade is the Tacoma’s available class IV towing receiver hitch. This feature is perfect for drivers transporting hefty items, such as boats and heavy-duty equipment. It evenly distributes the added weight.

Off-Road Features

If you are passionate about outdoor adventure, the Toyota Tacoma will exceed your expectations. It gives you access to a slew of rugged upgrades. While this truck performs well with its traditional rear-wheel-drive setup, an available 4X4 system greatly improves traction when encountering slippery ground.

Remember, there are even more upgrades available. Designed with five low-speed settings, Crawl Control helps you safely navigate more challenging terrain by automatically modulating the throttle and brakes. Meanwhile, high-performance Bilstein shocks help absorb the impacts of the trail. Some other goodies include a Multi-Terrain Monitor, Goodyear Wrangler off-road tires, protective skid plates, and an electronically locking rear differential.

Spacious Interiors

No matter your family size, Toyota has a family-friendly car to meet your requirements. For smaller families, the midsize Toyota Camry, Prius V, and RAV4 offer spacious seating for up to five passengers. If you’re looking for something with more seating, the Highlander will give you seating for up to seven, and the Sienna van will give you seating for up to eight passengers. The Camry offers 13.1 cubic feet of trunk space, making it the perfect investment for families looking for a great combination of spacious seating and cargo space in a smaller compact vehicle. The Prius V offers 67 cubic feet of cargo space, while the Highlander offers up to 84.3 cubic feet of cargo space.

Family-Oriented Features

Every Toyota model is perfectly crafted with a family-oriented mindset. You can enjoy standard Android Auto and Apple Carplay compatibility with the help of advanced technology like dynamic navigation, so you always get where you need to go. Getting the whole family into the car is a real breeze with remote keyless entry. Its integrated Wi-Fi will allow your whole family to stay connected for those long road trips. Even its integrated backup camera will help you maneuver safely no matter how many passengers you have in the back.

Advanced Safety Features

Thanks to Toyota’s rear occupancy alert, you are constantly reminded to check your rear seats when turning your ignition off. Every Toyota vehicle comes with the standard Toyota Safety Sense 3.0. This includes advanced safety technology systems like roadside assist, lane trace assist, dynamic radar cruise control, and even proactive driving assist. One of its most notable features is a pre-collision system with pedestrian detection that will help to reduce engine power and apply the brakes whenever an unexpected pedestrian enters the roadway in front of you.

With dynamic radar cruise control, you can always ensure that your vehicle will stay at a safe distance from those in front of it when it is set on cruise control. With lane tracing assist and lane departure alert warnings, you can ensure you never unexpectedly travel out of your lane and into harm’s way. Toyota’s road sign assist provides a heads-up display so drivers can clearly see upcoming road signs and navigate accordingly.

Innovative Powertrain

The all-new 2024 Toyota Tacoma starts the fourth generation with its i-Force Max powertrain technology. It features a turbocharged 2.4L 4-cylinder engine that produces a whopping 278 horsepower and 317 lb per foot of torque. The hybrid max ups the ante with 326 horsepower and 465 lb per foot of torque. Now, every off-road adventure becomes a chance for your all-new Tacoma to show off its high-performance features.

Adventurous Trim Models

In 2024, Toyota Tacoma buyers will find eight different options to choose from. These include the SR, SR5, TRD PreRunner, TRD Sport, TRD Off-Road, Limited, TRD Pro, and Trailhunter. The TRD PreRunner is a blast from the past, being redesigned to meet the needs of the 2024 driver. Tacoma’s newest trim style is the Trailhunter. This truck is designed with off-road adventuring in mind. From its 33-inch Goodyear rugged tires to its steel-reinforced bumper and extra two inches of ground clearance, the Trailhunter is a must-see for any Toyota truck enthusiast.

XtraCab Cargo Space

Available on the SR, SR5, and TRD PreRunner models, the XtraCab feature provides more cargo space for those with hauling on their minds. This option provides an extra rear cabin, a lockable storage container, and even a flat workspace on the back of the passenger seat. The XtraCab models are available with both five and six-foot bed configurations.

Portable Speaker Technology

The Tacoma comes with various advanced technology features that will surely turn your truck into a luxury ride whenever you feel the need. One of its most notable features is its portable JBL Flex audio speaker on the front dash. Simply remove the speaker and enjoy listening to your tunes when out on an adventure. It can last six hours on one charge and can be submerged in three feet of water without stopping.

Driver Assist and Safety Features

The all-new 2024 Toyota Tacoma comes standard with Toyota Safety Sense 3.0. This offers safety features like lane tracing assist, road sign assist, and pedestrian crossing detection. You’ll love Tacoma’s 3D multi-terrain view monitor, panoramic view monitor, and trailer camera.

Toyota Sequoia

The Sequoia is Toyota’s full-size SUV offering. Its SSR5 i-Force Max Twin Turbo V6 hybrid engine features a maximum towing capability of 9,520 pounds and a payload rating of 1,730 pounds. The Platinum model is at the lower end of the Toyota Sequoia spectrum, however, it offers a maximum towing capacity of 9,310 pounds and a payload rating of 1,520 pounds.

Toyota Grand Highlander

The Toyota Grand Highlander stands out as a powerhouse in the SUV segment, showcasing remarkable towing capabilities that elevate your driving experience. This model features a max towing capacity of 3,500 on the hybrid powertrain engine, while the Hybrid Max powertrain and gas engines can have a max towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds.

Toyota RAV4

The Toyota RAV4 is your off-road adventurer that features TRD off-road capabilities, dynamic torque vectoring all-wheel drive, and Multi-Terrain selection. The 2.5L 4-cylinder hybrid models feature an impressive maximum towing capacity of 1,750 pounds, while its standard gas 2.5L 4-cylinder engine models feature a towing capacity of 1,500 pounds. Its payload rating ranges from a low of 1,065 pounds to 1,240 pounds.

Toyota 4Runner

The Toyota 4Runner has been a long-time favorite for many SUV lovers. Its Smart Key System and Push Button Start alongside Toyota Safety Sense make this vehicle easy and safe to run. Across all its model trims, you’ll find a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds with the 4Runner. Its payload ratings fluctuate from a low of 1,495 pounds to a high of 1,700 pounds, depending on the specific trim model you choose.

Toyota Highlander

The Toyota Highlander is designed to be outstanding, and it features a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 pounds for its hybrid editions and 5,000 pounds for its gas models. Its payload capacity ranges from 1,517 to 1,715 pounds depending on the specific model you purchase.

Toyota Highlander L

The base model Toyota Highlander L offers a great mix of fuel efficiency and useful technological features. Like all Toyota models, it features Toyota Safety Sense to ensure the safest ride for you and your passengers. Other notable features of this model include LED headlights, push-button start, three-zone climate control, and a 5,000-pound towing capacity.

• 2.4L 4-Cylinder Turbo Engine @ 265 HP
• Seating for 8
• Fuel Efficiency 22 city/29 highway

Toyota Highlander LE

The Toyota Highlander LE provides some stark upgrades over the L model. These include LED fog lights, a height-adjustable power liftgate, Bling Spot Monitoring, a leather-trimmed shift knob and steering wheel, and a Rear Cross-Traffic alert. This model is currently available in AWD.

• 2.4L 4-Cylinder Turbo Engine @ 265 HP
• Seating for 8
• Fuel Efficiency 22 city/29 highway

Toyota Highlander Hybrid LE

The Toyota Highlander Hybrid LE brings all the great upgraded features that the LE model offers, just with a hybrid motor. This model provides better fuel efficiency than the standard LE. However, its towing capacity is limited to 3,500 pounds.

• 2.5L Hybrid Engine @ 243 HP
• Seating for 8
• Fuel Efficiency 36 city/35 highway

Toyota Highlander XLE

The Toyota Highlander XLE model brings the saying ‘ride in style’ to the marketplace. It features upgraded 18-inch alloy wheels that are machine-finished. It has a 7-inch color LCD display, auto-dimming rearview mirror, sliding moonroof, and Qi-compatible wireless charger. Unlike the other LE and L models, the XLE only seats seven passengers.

• 2.4L 4-Cylinder Turbo Engine @ 265 HP
• Seating for 8
• Fuel Efficiency 22 city/29 highway

Toyota Highlander Hybrid XLE

For those who love the upgrades on the XLE model but desire a more fuel-efficient vehicle, the Toyota Highlander Hybrid XLE is right up your alley. Apart from higher fuel economy, this model features a 10-way power adjustable seat with five useful USB ports.

• 2.5L Hybrid Engine @ 243 HP
• Seating for 8
• Fuel Efficiency 36 city/35 highway

Toyota Highlander XSE

The Toyota Highlander XSE features 20-inch alloy wheels that are machine-faced to provide a sportier look. You’ll love its twin-tip exhausts, black roof rails, chrome-finished lower spoiler, rear lower bumper, aggressive-looking mesh front grille, and sport-tuned independent MacPherson front strut suspension with a stabilizer bar.

• 2.4L 4-Cylinder Turbo Engine @ 265 HP
• Seating for 7
• Fuel Efficiency 22 city/29 highway

Toyota Highlander Bronze Edition

If you want to stand out, the Toyota Highlander Bronze Edition can be the ideal choice. It features 18-inch alloy wheels that are bronze-colored. You’ll love its SofTex-trimmed seating with bronze-colored stitching. This model also features a unique illuminated front door sill metal scuff plate with a bronze finish.

• 2.5L Hybrid Engine @ 243 HP
• Seating for 7
• Fuel Efficiency 36 city/35 highway

Toyota Highlander Limited

The Toyota Highlander Limited comes standard with 11 JBL speakers with 1200W. With its premium radio setup alongside its sleek exterior, this ride is one that you’ll love taking down the road. It features 20-inch chrome-finished wheels.

• 2.4L 4-Cylinder Turbo Engine @ 265 HP
• Seating for 8
• Fuel Efficiency 22 city/29 highway

Toyota Highlander Hybrid Limited

If you want to enjoy all the great features of the Highlander Limited, just with better fuel economy, then the Toyota Highlander Hybrid Limited is perfect for you. This model not only features better fuel efficiency, but it has leather-trimmed front seats that are both heated and ventilated. This model does feature a slightly lower towing capacity of 3,500 pounds.

• 2.5L Hybrid Engine @ 243 HP
• Seating for 7
• Fuel Efficiency in 36 city/35 highway

Toyota Highlander Platinum

This top-of-the-line Toyota Highlander Platinum model features a 12.3-inch touchscreen display with a Bird’s Eye View Camera with dynamic grids. Its power panoramic view moonroof, sunshade, and one-touch open and close capability will be sure to please.

• 2.4L 4-Cylinder Turbo Engine @ 265 HP
• Seating for 7
• Fuel Efficiency 22 city/29 highway

Toyota Highlander Hybrid Platinum

The Toyota Highlander Hybrid Platinum has all the excellent features that come with the Platinum edition, just with better fuel economy. This model features 20-inch alloy wheels, a JBL audio system, and heated second-row captain’s chairs.

• 2.5L Hybrid Engine @ 243 HP
• Seating for 7
• Fuel Efficiency in 36 city/35 highway