Toyota has most Consumer Reports top models by category

Toyota models snared "top pick" designations in five of 10 vehicle categories in the Consumer Reports annual auto issue, on sale March 6, and announced today.

CR named the redesigned Camry hybrid the best "Family Sedan" -- not the whole Camry line, just the hybrid. Toyota updated the gas-electric drivetrain

CAPTION

By Consumer Reports

for the 2012 model, making it quicker and smoother, and is offering it on a lower price model, so buyers can get one a bit less than $30,000. For buyers who can't afford that tariff, the Hyundai Sonata was top pick for "Affordable Family Sedan" at about $21,000.Our Test Drive column about the 2012 Camry re-do took special note of the hybrid model.

 The CR bouquet comes shortly after Toyota took significant honors in a recent J.D. Power and Associates quality report card. Toyota still is nearly delirious after that one, having been battered so long by bad news -- safety recalls, earthquake/tsunami devastation in Japan that caused worldwide product shortages, floods in Thailand that dried up supplies of computer chips used in auto computers.

 CR's criteria for naming top picks include ranking at or near the top of their category on overall road test scores, average or better predicted-reliability ratings in CR's subscriber survey and high performance in government or crash tests. Here are the magazine's top models in 10 vehicle categories:

 FAMILY SEDAN: Toyota Camry Hybrid. In addition to its impressive 38 mpg overall fuel economy, other high points include a comfortable ride; a roomy, quiet, cabin; fairly quick acceleration;
and for 2012, a nicer interior and somewhat crisper handling (although the Camry is still no sports sedan).

 SPORTY CAR: Ford Mustang. The heart of this iconic sports car has always been its strong acceleration and rumbling V8 power. But now there's more to the Mustang than power. Agile
handling, a decent ride, comfortable front seats, and very good fit and finish make the current version an inviting package. The Mustang delivers good fuel economy (22-24 mpg) for its class.

 SMALL SUV: Toyota RAV4. With a four-cylinder engine, the RAV4 delivers some of the best gas mileage in its class (23 mpg). The spirited V6 version accelerates as quickly as many sports sedans and gets only 1 mpg less than the four-cylinder model.

 AFFORDABLE FAMILY SEDAN: Hyundai Sonata. CR chose the four-cylinder Sonata as a more affordable alternative to the Camry Hybrid. The Sonata provides a roomy, well-equipped cabin, supple ride, nimble handling, and thrifty 27 mpg overall, for just a little bit more money than many small
sedans.

 FAMILY HAULER: Toyota Sienna V6. The Sienna fits the bill nicely for families looking for a comfortable, roomy interior, plenty of features, and the ability to carry up to eight people. Among its high points are lively performance, decent fuel economy (20 mpg), and a comfortable ride, although the
handling is rather lackluster. It's the only minivan that has at least average reliability.

 SPORTS SEDAN: Infiniti G. The G37's agile handling, blistering acceleration, and comfortable, well-crafted interior make it one of CR's highest-scoring sedans. The G is on this list for the sixth straight year. The less expensive but equally inviting G25 isn't as quick, but gets 24 mpg
overall, 3 more than the G37.

 GREEN CAR: Toyota Prius. The Prius sets the standard for fuel efficiency, practicality, and affordability with its overall 44 mpg. Its roomy interior, comfortable ride, and hatchback versatility make it easy to live with. The 41 mpg of the new Prius V wagon easily tops its class.

 SMALL CAR: Subaru Impreza. Redesigned for 2012, the all-wheel-drive Impreza is a well-rounded roomy sedan with nimble handling and a compliant, absorbent ride that rivals some luxury sedans. Fuel economy of 27 mpg overall is impressive for an AWD car.

 PICKUP TRUCK: Chevrolet Avalanche. The Avalanche provides the best combination of utility and versatility of any pickup CR has tested. Its unified bed and cab help give it a steady, comfortable ride, and the cabin is quiet. Its overall mpg is 14.

 FAMILY SUV: Toyota Highlander. The refined, comfortable, and quiet Highlander has consistently ranked near the top of its class in CR's road-test scores and has had above-average
reliability. The V6 version delivers a decent 18 mpg overall, and the Highlander Hybrid model tops all SUVs at 27.

By James R. Healey USA TODAY 

Peace Arch Toyota Presents

2008 BMW 335i Convertible

The best hardtop convertible yet?

The BMW 3-series is without question one of our favorite cars, reigning on our yearly 10Best Cars list for the past 16 years. The current and much-praised, fifth-generation E90 version is no doubt the best, and is among the most rewarding cars to drive at any price. For 2008, and to no one's surprise, BMW is adding a convertible version, just as the company has for the past 20 years.

But, this is BMW's first foray into the expanding, hardtop-convertible parade. Other notable features are a much-improved, rapid-shifting six-speed automatic; special reflective leather to keep the seats cool (up to 30 degrees cooler than conventional leather) when the top is down; and, of course, the spectacular 300-hp twin-turbo inline-six that was introduced in last year's 335i coupe..

Changes from convertible to coupe in 23 seconds

Hardtop convertibles offer numerous advantages over their soft-top competitors, including coupe-like quietness and excellent visibility when the top is up. BMW reports that the rear side windows have grown 30 percent in the new 3-series convertible, while overall visibility is up 38 percent. To our eyes, visibility out of the convertible is essentially equivalent to that of the coupe.

But how does it drive?

Has chopping the roof and adding weight spoiled the 3-series? Most definitely not. If anything, it's just a touch less-edgy than the stiffer and lighter 335i coupe and sedan, but the convertible still dances up a twisty mountain road in a way that will satisfy the enthusiast.

The surprisingly linear, 300-hp 3.0-liter direct-injection twin-turbo six barks with a satisfactory, very un-turbo-like snarl and is the least compromised turbo engine we've ever driven. Naturally it doesn't feel quite as strong as in the coupe; BMW predicts the convertible's 0-to-60-mph times will be 0.2-second slower than comparable coupe's. We blasted to 60 mph in 4.9 seconds in a 335i manual coupe, so that would put a manual 335i convertible at 5.1 seconds, and an automatic at 5.3. Still not exactly what you'd call slow.

While enthusiasts will probably prefer the standard six-speed manual transmission, opt for the new ZF six-speed automatic and the engine's boosted nature is concealed even more, to a point that it's basically indiscernible. BMW claims this new transmission shifts up to 40-percent quicker than other automatics, and even though it's a conventional automatic with a torque converter its shift times are approaching those of automated manuals, such as BMW's SMG. To us, this new automatic is up there with the Jaguar XK's tranny as among the best; both of which are far better than the clunky SMG. And who wouldn't want satisfying, right-now shifts without the bumbling between gears that happens with SMG? Wide-open-throttle upshifts happen with a reassuring kick approaching that of automated manuals.

As far as the 3-series' convertibleness is concerned, we did over a hundred miles with the top down, optional wind blocker in place, and windows up. If there's any degradation to structural rigidity with the top down, it's minimal, and even at 80 to 85 mph the cabin is reasonably quiet. Perhaps better, we were able to stay warm with outside temperatures in the low- to mid-40s.

Other 3-series traits remain: Terrifically comfortable seats, with optional power bolster adjustment (you must try these); properly weighted and responsive steering that's among the best; and a ride-handling balance its competitors would kill for.

BY DAVE VANDERWERP

See our 2008 BMW 338i Convertible along with the rest of our  Pre-Owned Inventory at Peace Arch Toyota in South Surrey / White Rock



Tundra offers quiet power and solid stance

 

The double cab drives very well, has lots of room and keeps most road noise on the outside

LOOKS
 Three models and six configurations available here; regular cab, double cab, and crew max. The regular cab is offered with a long box in a 4x2 and 4x4 versions; the double cab is available in 4x2 and 4x4; and the crew max only available as a 4x4 and 4x4 Limited. When Toyota redesigned the Tundra in 2007 it not only became a full-sized truck, it became the first Toyota truck to have towing capabilities of up to 10,000 lbs. Some of the styling cues came from the Tacoma but much of the body design was direct from a concept vehicle.

IN THE CAB
The front driver's seat is an avail-able eight-way power adjustable with 10-way power adjustable available on Limited models. The passenger front seat is a four-way power adjust-able. All seat configurations are avail-able in leather and include heated and ventilated front seats on the Limited models. The dash layout is clean and the gauges are easy to see. Other cabin amenities include AM/ FM stereo with MP3/WMA capability, auxiliary input jack, four speakers and satellite-radio ready.

 SAFETY FIRST
The Tundra is equipped with dual front airbags, front row side torso air-bags, and rollover sensing side curtain airbags for both the front and rear rows. Other standard safety features include vehicle stability control, traction control and anti-lock brakes.

POWER
Two engines available are with this truck: a 4.6-litre i-force 32 valve DOHC engine that produces 310 horsepower and 327 lbs.-ft of torque: and a 5.7-litre i-force 32 valve DOHC that boasts a whopping 381 horse-power and a gear crunching 401 lbs.-ft of torque. The variable valve timing Sequential multi-port electronic fuel injection helps keep the fuel economy manageable.
The sole transmission is a 6-speed automatic with manual mode and tow/haul mode.

PUMP FREQUENCY
4.6 Litre engine
15.0/10.4 L/100 km (city/high-way)
5.7-litre engine 15.8/11.0 L/100 km (city/high-way)
WARRANTY SUPPORT
Basic 36 months/ 60,000 km
Powertrain 60 months/100,000 km
Corrosion perforation 96 months/ unlimited km

ROADWORTHY
My tester for the week was the Tundra double cab and I found it had plenty of leg room in the back. The truck drives very well, the cab is quiet and is designed and built to eliminate most of the road noise. The engine is quiet and powers this large truck around with ease.

VERDICT
Overall the truck performed well and I enjoyed the drive. I like the styling and the stance. You can easily see everything around you and it makes you more aware of any dangers.

Call Peace Arch Toyota for more information 1-800-417-7707.

 By Ian Harwood, The Province

If it looks like a Camry...

 

 

Popular sedan sticks with Toyota's time-honored formula

The reason the Toyota Camry has been North America's favourite family sedan for donkey's years is simple -- it has done everything expected of it well.

No, it does not stand out in any particular area. But when the family needs to get from A to B, it does it in style, holding five adults realistically and with the trunk space needed to accommodate their luggage (15.4 cubic feet).
The new Camry sticks to Toyota's time-honored formula -- although some will suggest this is to the detriment of the latest version.

First, no one is going to mistake the seventh-generation Camry for anything other than a Camry. This means a rather staid look that's more about packaging what's on the inside than it is about giving the exterior look any real visual punch.


The toe-the-line style is a surprising move given Buick's radical reinvention, some sweet-looking entrants from Hyundai and Kia, and competitors on the near horizon -- the next-generation Ford Fusion is a stunner and there's a new Honda Accord on the way. Any and all would dearly love to grab a Camry customer.

There are no quibbles with the new interior style, which is upscale and inviting to the eye. The materials are very good, as is the overall comfort and quietness and, with the exception of a couple of anomalies, the layout is first-rate. It's obvious Toyota spent a great deal of time getting it right.

The front seats are very accommodating (sadly, be prepared to pay if you want them heated), there are no blind spots to speak of and there is enough rear-seat legroom the Camry qualifies as limo-like -- the sculpted nature of the front seatbacks adds 45 millimetres of knee room to an already spacious ride.


The anomalies are minor but out-of-step nonetheless.

First, the audio-control module on the left side of the steering wheel looks like an afterthought, which runs contrary to an otherwise integrated execution.

The second anomaly is just plain odd. Look at the centre stack and it's not immediately obvious that the top-of-the-line Camry XLE arrives with a standard navigation system as there is no button to push. Rather, one has to push the App button, tap the map icon on the touch-sensitive screen and then confirm one will obey the rules of the road and drive accordingly. Only then does the map appear. The methodology transforms what was a one-step operation into a chore.


Where Toyota needs to be taken to task is under the hood. With the exception of an extra gear in the manumatic transmission, the Camry's motivation carries over from the previous generation. The test car arrived with the base 2.5-litre four-cylinder. It puts out 178 horsepower and 170 pound-feet of torque and it doesn't sound overly thrashy in the process.

While the numbers are far from outstanding, there is enough at the driver's right foot to deal with the cut and thrust of a morning commute, including passing a slower car when the need arises. The tester trotted to 100 kilometres an hour in just more than nine seconds and managed the more important 80-to-120-km/h dash in six seconds. Loading the car up with passengers does blunt the edge, but it's not enough to fret over.

The four-cylinder is also remarkably good on gas, given the size of the car it is moving -- a test average of 9.2 litres per 100 kilometres was much better than I expected. All of this stated, the four-cylinder engine does make the up-level 268-hp V6 an important option if you're shopping for more than acceptable.

The new transmission works very nicely and showcases the engine in its best light. However, there is yet another anomaly. Whenever the manual mode is selected, the gearbox downshifts from sixth gear to fourth -- without regard for speed. Invariably, this puts it in the wrong gear, which forces the driver to manually correct an automated move.

Why is there an automatic function in the manual mode? It makes no sense whatsoever and effectively renders the manual side redundant for me.
When it comes to ride quality, the Camry is a Japanese Buick. It takes a mighty gnarly bit of road to get the suspension to feed any jostling back to the passengers. In this regard, the Camry is first-rate.

The flip side sees the overall setup being a little too soft to provide any real sense of handling. Certainly, the amount of roll is limited to a handful of degrees and the feedback afforded by the electrically assisted steering is all it should be, but the overall driving sensation does not spur the driver onward to the next set of sweeping curves.

In fairness, a big part of the mushy feel/feedback came down to the snow tires the test car was wearing. They allowed the Camry to slip into understeer long before it would otherwise.

So, carping aside, is the Toyota Camry about to lose its favourite status? I think not. The quibbles are, in the grand scheme of things, minor in nature and not enough to put a dent in the Camry's popularity.

Peace Arch Toyota has an excellent selection of 2012 Camry's in stock now. To book a test drive please call 1-800-417-7707.

By: By Graeme Fletcher

Updated: February 24, 2012

 

 

There is a lot more to leasing than just a low interest rate!

 Why a vehicle's resale value matters

Leasing is returning to Canada in ways we haven’t seen since the financial crisis and that means many new-car consumers are looking with urgency at resale values.

After all, if you lease, you are essentially renting a car. The rental payment is based on how much value that new ride will lose in the future. In other words, your payment is based in large part on what that vehicle will be worth two, three, four years down the road. Resale values matter, obviously.

"When deciding on a new car or truck, consumers often search for a model offering the best loan rate or the richest incentives that lower the sticker price,” says Kathy Ward, CEO of Canadian Black Book. “But not taking vehicle depreciation into consideration – the single greatest cost of vehicle ownership – can lead to a costly surprise at trade-in time.”

 Canadian Black Book has just released its annual 2012 Best Retained Value Awards, an annual roster of passenger cars and light trucks that have led the market in holding their value. And like rival ALG, which has also just released its 2012 Canadian Residual Value Awards, the winners in retained value are Japanese cars and trucks.

 In the CBB world, Toyota, Lexus, Subaru and Honda combined to place first in 11 of 17 CBB vehicle classes, while European auto makers took home four. Chrysler took home three and there was one tie. Ward says the CBB awards help shoppers scope out vehicle that deliver excellent value for money – because these vehicles retain value the best. For consumers, CBB has an excellent consumer website that allows visitors to research present values for used vehicle as well as obtain the projected future value of a new vehicle today (canadianblackbook.com).

 This year’s CBB story is once again largely about Toyota and its Lexus luxury brand. Toyota earned five first-place finishes, four second-place and one third-place. Lexus took two firsts and one second. Meanwhile, the Subaru Outback has either won or tied for first in the mid-size car category for three years running.

 Japanese auto makers performed equally well in ALG’s latest awards. Subaru received the Mainstream Brand award for the third consecutive year and Japanese models won 14 of the 19 individual vehicle segments. Subarus as a group are projected to retain 40.8 per cent of their value after four years, far ahead of the mainstream average of 33.7 per cent. On the luxury side, Nissan’s luxury brand, Infiniti, won the ALG brand awards by being projected to retain 45.2 per cent of their value after three years.

 CBB and ALG approach the resale story in different ways. The Black Book people based their awards strictly on past performance in the marketplace, relying heavily on auction data and other similar indicates. ALG uses auction data also, but also relies heavily on a number of other factors to predict where values are going in the future.

 “Residual value is a complete indicator of value, taking into account quality, durability and brand desirability,” said Geoff Helby, regional director of ALG Canada. A key element that helps ALG make its value predictions revolves around the perceived quality of vehicles and brands, as determined by consumers. ALG also takes into account macroeconomic indicators such as housing prices and employment levels.

 Toyota’s performance in the CBB honours might be a surprise to some, given Toyota’s sales were down substantially in 2011 and the company has been busy rebuilding brand strength in the wake of a number of recall issues. But auto analyst Dennis DesRosiers had another take.

 “It’s interesting that while new-vehicle sales figures may show Toyota lagging behind North American models, the retained value awards tell another story,” said DesRosiers. “The Toyota Tundra and Tacoma models, for example, have won Best Retained Value in the Full-size Pickup and Small Pickup categories for three consecutive years although we typically think of North America as the top builder of trucks.”

 Overall, though, this year’s awards from both ALG and CBB show a remarkable consistency over time. If you plan to lease, it seems, what’s past is prologue.

Jeremy Cato 

Globe and Mail Update

Published Wednesday, Feb. 22, 2012 5:00AM EST

Roll Up The Rim to win a Camry Hybrid

Great selection of 2012 Toyota Camry's at Peace Arch Toyota, Surrey B.C.

Toronto, Ontario – Forty Canadians will be the lucky owners of Toyota Camry Hybrid vehicles in the latest Tim Hortons Roll Up The Rim To Win contest, which runs from now until May 20, 2012.
The contest includes 40 top prizes of a 2012 Camry Hybrid XLE.

“We’re delighted to join forces with Tim Hortons for a seventh consecutive year,” said Stephen Beatty, managing director of Toyota Canada. “At the conclusion of this year’s contest, we’ll have given away a total of 250 Toyota vehicles since first becoming involved in the promotion.”

The Camry Hybrid will be featured on the Roll Up The Rim To Win cups, as well as in television, radio, and outdoor and in-store advertising.

Toyota Customers Loyal Despite Recalls, Study

This is not news to Peace Arch Toyota, but it is nice to see it in print.

If you think a little recall can keep a company like Toyota down, you’d be wrong. Even with the slew of recalls in 2009, the setbacks have had “little to no impact” on how consumers see Toyota.


At least that’s what a study released by North Carolina State University found. Researchers first looked at the used car market to see how factors that had nothing to do with the recall, like promotions, marketing campaigns and new models could impact sales. Then, they studied the average prices for specific used models to determine how much Toyota owners were willing sell their vehicle for and how much used-car buyers would be willing to pay for them.

The results found that even though Toyota received a lot of press surrounding the recalls, it really didn’t have an effect on what consumers were willing to pay for a Toyota vehicle. In fact, the average price of vehicles that were affected by the recall only declined by about two percent when compared to unaffected vehicles.

This study highlights the importance of a well-established reputation. When the university did a similar study of Audi vehicles recalled in 1986 due to similar acceleration issues, researchers found an average price slide greater than 16 percent over a six month period.

2012 TOYOTA YARIS: Fun and frugal

 

 

It isn't fine dining -- it's great fast food

 

As much as I love my job, being a food critic would be pretty cool, too. Just imagine all the amazing meals that fellow Free Press writer Marion Warhaft has enjoyed.

Culinary delights from all corners of the globe served up in Winnipeg's hottest restaurants. Spicy Thai food, gourmet pizza, prime cuts of beef cooked to perfection -- it's enough to make a guy choose a new calling.
That said, I'm betting even with all the amazing restaurants Marion reviews, every now and then she longs for a quick cheeseburger to fill the gap.

I suppose being an auto writer really isn't all that different. Sure it's a total riot tooling around town in shiny new exotic vehicles from around the world but, the truth is, sometimes I just want to get through the week in the automotive equivalent of a cheeseburger. No bells, no whistles, no exorbitant price tag, just a nice little car that is easy on the eyes, comfortable and economical.

The good folks at Toyota may not like my analogy, but the reality is the new 2012 Toyota Yaris isn't fine dining. Sure, you can dress it up with bacon, add a side of fries, maybe even some cole slaw. But, at its root, the new Yaris is essentially the car equivalent of a cheeseburger.

And in my opinion, nobody cooks it up better than Toyota.

Our tester was a 2012 Yaris LE hatchback with a base price of $15,890. The 4-speed automatic transmission added an additional grand, while the convenience package, complete with air conditioning, power windows, cruise control and keyless entry, added another $1,100. This brought the total MSRP of our tester to a very reasonable $17,990.

The list of standard features is impressive and includes vehicle stability control, traction control, electric power steering with a tilt wheel, 15-inch wheels, AM/FM CD with MP3 player, four speakers, Bluetooth capability, audio auxiliary input jack and even USB audio input. You can also get important trip data, such as average fuel consumption, outside temperature and more, at your fingertips with the multi-information display.

On the road, the little Yaris feels like a bigger car, and the engine, although it certainly works hard at highway speed, runs smoothly and pulls hard. I especially liked the predictable handling and found the brakes to be top-notch. In the past, I've compared driving these subcompact cars to the invigoration one feels when driving an all-terrain vehicle or even a snowmobile. Liberating is the best way to describe the overall driving impression; the Yaris is not weighted down with a bunch of unnecessary options and the spirited handling proves this.

From the curb, it looks remarkably similar to the larger Toyota Matrix. Angular lines and large exterior lights blend in nicely with the sharp body lines.

The interior is best described as minimalistic. Nothing too fancy here, but the use of high-quality plastics with a grained finish is pleasing to both the eyes and the touch.

The controls for the audio system and HVAC are also easy to reach and can be operated with gloves on. Despite its small engine, the cabin heated up quickly and the seats were firm but comfortable, even when climbing in on a frigid morning. One feature that caught me off guard was the massive single wiper blade that clears the windshield with authority.

Our five-door hatchback tester featured a fairly roomy rear seat that would be more than adequate for kids and comfortable enough for large adults on short jaunts. The rear luggage area is a full 14.5 centimetres longer than the previous Yaris hatchback model, with a hatch door opening that's two cm wider. Combined with a 60/40 split folding rear seat, there's plenty of room for your gear -- and more room to get it in and out. Safety features include an industry-leading nine airbags.

The 2012 Yaris is available in three models, the three-door CE hatchback, five-door LE hatchback and the sporty five-door SE hatchback.

Overall, I was thoroughly impressed with the newly designed Yaris; it feels good on the road, looks great and is amazing on fuel. Although it's a new model, there's a spirited dose of the DNA that made small Toyota cars of the past so appealing.

If first impressions are any indication, the new Yaris looks poised to live up to the current advertising campaign that boasts "Epic Reliability."

Article by  By: Paul Williamson / Changing Lanes
 willy@freepress.mb.ca

 

Prius "c" finance and lease rates available at Peace Arch Toyota

The all-new 2012 Prius c will arrive at Peace Arch Toyota next month and to maximize the success of its launch we are pleased to provide advance notice of the March finance and lease programs. The newest addition to the Prius family will launch with a starting price of just $20,950!  That is the lowest MSRP for any hybrid model in the country while providing the industry’s best hybrid fuel economy! The 2012 Prius c launches with 60 month low kilometer lease payments under $300, making this “fun to drive” vehicle both competitive and affordable!

*Estimated low kilometer lease and bi-weekly finance payments based on 2012 Prius c “A” suffix, $0 down payment

If you would like to pre-book a test drive please email us at sales@peacearchtoyota.com   or call us at 1-800-417-7707.

Toyota wins two ecoEnergy awards – strengthening its fuel-efficiency leadership as the Tacoma wins for the second straight year and the Prius v, the newest Prius on the market, wins in its first year on the market

Toyota continues to lead as the automotive manufacturer with the most fuel efficient passenger car fleet in Canada

 

(TORONTO) – For the second consecutive year, Toyota’s high-powered Tacoma pick-up truck has won an ecoENERGY Award from Natural Resources Canada’s Office of Energy Efficiency, confirming the 2012 Tacoma’s status as the most fuel-efficient in its class. In addition, the all-new 2012 Prius v claimed the title as most fuel-efficient station wagon, making it 12 straight years that a Prius has won an ecoENERGY Award.

 

“Toyota continues to set the benchmark for fuel efficiency, and we will keep investing in innovative ways to strengthen our leadership,” said Mr. Seiji Ichii, President and Chief Executive Officer, Toyota Canada Inc. “Along with safety and performance, fuel efficiency is a key part of our commitment to delivering superior value to Canadian drivers.”

 

Toyota Tacoma 4X2 Access Cab – most fuel-efficient pick-up

Toyota has re-affirmed its commitment to the truck segment with significant updates to the 2012 Toyota Tacoma. The 4X2 Access Cab is a high-quality force of nature with an engine as powerful as it is fuel-efficient. It was named ecoENERGY pickup truck champion for a combined fuel efficiency of 8.9L/100 km (10.0L/100 km city, 7.7L/100 km highway). The 2012 Tacoma’s engine, which boasts a Tier 2 Bin 5 Emissions Rating, has a towing capacity of 3,500 lbs. (1,587 kg) and comes with Toyota's Star Safety™ System, an innovative and versatile bedrail utility system, and a steely interior that’s roomy and rugged, with an authentic tough-truck feel.

 

Toyota Prius v – most fuel-efficient station wagon

The 2012 Prius v delivers the best fuel efficiency of any SUV, crossover or wagon in the market today, at a combined fuel efficiency rating of 4.6L/100km  (4.3L/100 km city, 4.8L/100 km highway), plus it has a 66 per cent reduction in smog-forming emissions compared to the average new vehicle. Its versatile interior seats five adults comfortably, with sliding second-row seats that recline up to 45 degrees. At the same time, a fold-flat front passenger seat and 60/40 split folding rear seat make it easy to convert Prius v into a cargo hauler, with up to 971 L of space for stuff.

Toyota wins three 2012 Canadian Residual Value Awards

Peace Arch Toyota is pleased to announce Toyota has won three awards for residual value for 2012.

Toyota’s three Residual Value Awards were for the Toyota Camry in the Mid-size Car category, the Toyota Tacoma in the Mid-size Pickup segment and Toyota Tundra in the Full-size Pickup category.

These vehicles are most likely to retain the highest percentage of their original price in Canada after a conventional retail lease within their segments. When added to the three U.S. vehicles that won for 2012, Toyota has won a total of six residual value awards in North America.

The annual (ALG) Residual Value Awards recognize automakers’ outstanding achievements in producing vehicles that demonstrate the ability to retain the highest percentage of their original price after a three-year period.

Awards are given in 19 vehicle categories and two brand categories (mainstream and luxury). This year’s awards are based on 2012 model year vehicles.

 “Toyota Canada is committed to delivering value to its customers yearly,” noted Tony Wearing, Senior Managing Director, Toyota Canada Inc. “Helping Canadians further their dollar is of utmost importance to us, and we are proud that ALG has recognized the value in these vehicles. Canadians can feel confident knowing that their quality, dependable and reliable Toyota will deliver a high resale value.”

 “The redesigned Camry hits at the right time in this highly contested segment,” said Geoff Helby, Canada Regional Director for ALG. “The new Camry’s enhanced design combined with improved driving dynamics and interior styling are welcome changes to a consistent segment leader.”

Regarding the award won by the Tacoma, Helby said: “With few competitors remaining and a long-standing tradition of near-zero incentives, the Tacoma takes home the Canadian RVA in the Mid-size Pickup segment for the second consecutive year. Preserving much of the capability of light-duty full-size pickup trucks, the Tacoma appeals to fuel-efficiency-minded buyers, even while entering the eighth year of its current generation.”

In addressing the Tundra, Helby explained: “For its latest generation of full-size pickup, Toyota decided to go straight at the domestics in terms of size and capability, but it’s the Tundra’s dependability and value that help it to stand out among the segment. Add to that a strategy of low incentives compared to the segment average, and it’s no mystery that the Tundra has the strongest retention of any full-size truck for the third year in a row.”

2012 Toyota Tacoma 4x2 Access Cab SR5 at Peace Arch Toyota

The Ford Ranger is dead! Long live the Toyota Tacoma! Yes, the Ford Ranger died a long but not painful death. Even though it survived nearly 20 years without any significant changes, the Ranger still picked up good sales every year. However, the time had come for the plug to be pulled.

Coinciding with the death of the legendary Ranger is the physical rejuvenation of its biggest foe, the Tacoma. Back in 2005, the Toyota took the top spot in the US from Ford as best-selling compact truck. Even though the Ranger bowed out of the No. 1 position, it hung on to the second step of the podium. The next-best seller was the Nissan Frontier, itself outsold two to one by the Tacoma.

Old school but good
As a long since out-of-the-closet fan of pickups, in their respective segments, my faves have forever been the full-size Ford F150 and the compact Tacoma. As I ponder my rating of the truck in this review, I find myself confronted with the fact that I like the Tacoma more for what it isn't than what it is.

What the 2012 Toyota Tacoma is not is modern and refined. What the Tacoma is not is meant to be a showcase for technology or for creature comforts. The Tacoma is what the wicker chair is to the La-Z-Boy. And I'm very fond of it.

The Toyota Tacoma has a reputation for being tough, robust, and pretty much the most dependable product the Japanese giant has in its massive stable. This, the Tacoma is. It also has a long history that goes way back to the first Land Cruisers from the early 1950s. What those trucks were capable of was what made them legends in their own time. The Tacoma carries on that lineage.

Ingredient upgrade needed
Unfortunately, that fact that the Tacoma stays true to its roots is what hurts it, or rather, me. In actuality, the only negative aspect of this Tacoma is the available 4-speed automatic transmission.

The 2012 Toyota Tacoma's base engine is a 2.7L 4-cylinder that develops 159 hp and 180 lb-ft of torque. A 236-hp 4.0L V6 is available. Despite sounding and running exactly like a 4-cylinder engine from the ’70s, the 2.7L has plenty of heart and gets the job done. With it comes a 5-speed manual transmission as a 2x4 or 4x4. For an appalling $1,000 extra, Toyota will hand over the 4-speed automatic.

Although the box may be as tough as the rest of the truck, it not only robs the 2.7L power-wise, but it increases fuel consumption. On acceleration or passing, the poor mill tries as best as it can to make things happen but the transmission drops 2,000 rpm between first and second and will not kick-down unless you kick it. I think Toyota should give the buyer a $1,000 discount if they opt for the 4-speed.

Article by ....  Mathieu St-Pierre

Toyota’s 100 Cars for Good Program Returning in 2012

Following on from its well received “100 Cars for Good” program last year, Toyota announced at the Chicago Auto Show that it would be returning for 2012.

The program will run over the course of 100 days, with Toyota awarding 100 vehicles to 100 non profit organizations in the US. In order to determine which non profits receive the cars, Toyota has organized a public voting pole on its corporate Facebook page, with the winners selected based on the highest number of votes.

Non profits interested in participating in the program can register online, beginning March 12, with the enrollment process lasting for two weeks or until 5,000 applications have been received. From these, an independent judging panel, whose members specialize in the fields of philanthropy and social responsibility will select 500 finalists. These finalists are then invited to submit videos showing how the addition of a new vehicle would help them in their work. Each of the videos will be posted on the Toyota 100 cars website. From there, beginning in May, voters will then select the 100 winners over the course of 100 days.

“At Toyota, we appreciate what a big difference a new car can make for organizations working to improve lives and strengthen communities across the country,” remarked Michael Rouse, Toyota’s vice president of philanthropy and community affairs. “Over the last 20 years, Toyota has contributed more than half a billion dollars to nonprofits throughout the U.S. and  100 Cars for Good allows us to build on that commitment in important, new ways by making the public an integral part of these efforts and harnessing the power of social media to expand awareness and galvanize support for organizations that are having such a tremendous impact in neighborhoods nationwide.”

Peace Arch Toyota....Pinnacle Award Winning Dealer

Our sincere thanks.

Peace Arch Toyota has won the 2011 Toyota Pinnacle Award for customer satisfaction. 

Our mission is to provide extraordinary customer service.  This dedication to customer service has resulted in Peace Arch Toyota receiving the 2009 Pinnacle Award and placing third of 34 dealers in 2010. 

The Pinnacle Program awards are given to Toyota dealers who demonstrate outstanding customer service and provide customers with an exceptional purchase and vehicle servicing experience.

Peace Arch Toyota offer's Oil Changes for Life

At Peace Arch Toyota we value you as a customer. With that said we offer a program for $599 for Oil Changes for Life. Once purchased for as long as you own your vehicle your oil changes are paid for.

Visit us for up to four oil changes per year. If you drive 20,000 kilometers per year you would qualify for two oil changes but if you drive 30,000 kilometers per year you would qualify for four oil changes per year. It doesn't matter if you purchased your vehicle at Peace Arch Toyota you can still take advantage of this program.

If you haven't purchase oil for life yet feel free to discuss it with a Service Advisor the next time you are in.

For more information please contact oilforlife@peacearchtoyota.com

Next Toyota Avalon Will Meet or Beat Fiat 500 33-MPG Rating

Last month, Toyota alluded to the possibility that an Avalon Hybrid was in the works, claiming that a car under development would have “more space than a BMW X5, faster than a Volkswagen TDI and higher MPG than a Fiat 500.”

And now we pretty much have confirmation that the vehicle Toyota Division Group Vice President and General Manager Bob Carter was speaking about is the upcoming Avalon that will most definitely be employing the use of a hybrid system. Toyota executives at the National Automobile Dealers Association Convention promised that the all-new Avalon will “meet or beat” the 33-mpg combined rating of the Fiat 500.

Set to make its debut at the 2012 New York International Auto Show, the new Avalon Hybrid would be a huge improvement over the current 20-mpg city, 29-mpg highway offered in this generation Avalon. Chances are, Toyota will reach for their system seen in the Camry Hybrid that has 200-hp and a 41-mpg combined rating.
Toyota also announced at the event that they intend to release 19 new models (including the Avalon) in 2012 alone.

Peace Arch Toyota is excited to be able to offer their customers this unique luxury hybrid in the near future.

[Source: Detroit Free Press]

The iconic hybrid, refreshed and better than ever: 2012 Prius offers the lowest MSRP in its history

Starting at a remarkable $25,995,  $1,805 less than 2011 model, the 2012 Prius is equipped with $766 worth of extra features as standard, including: all season floor mats, back monitor and display audio with USB input and Bluetooth connectivity.
 

Offering an updated interior and exterior with styling that packs plenty of advanced convenience and innovative technology features, there is a Prius for everyone in one of the four well-equipped trim levels.
 
“When Canadians think incredible fuel efficiency they think hybrid, and when they think hybrid, they think Prius,” said Tony Wearing, Senior Managing Director, Toyota Canada Inc.  “With over 23,000 Prius vehicles already sold in Canada, the updated 2012 Prius proves that there’s never been a better time to join the Prius family and enjoy the many performance and cost benefits of advanced hybrid technology. 
 

With a choice of available options packages Canadians can enjoy:
 
·        The 2012 Toyota Prius with Moonroof: Upgrade Package: $29,245 MSRP is $2,620 less than equivalent 2011 model, and now includes a navigation system.
 
·        The 2012 Toyota Prius withTouring Package: $29,550 MSRP is $2,315 less than equivalent 2011 model, and now includes a navigation system.
 
·        The 2012 Toyota Prius with Technology Package: $34,080 MSRP is $3,315 less than equivalent 2011 model, with similar features.
 
The 2012 Toyota Prius is now on sale at Peace Arch Toyota.

Toyota Planning Life-Sized Monopoly Ride Expereince At Chicago Auto Show

Toyota‘s display at this year’s Chicago Auto Show is going to fun. That’s because the automaker is teaming up with Hasbro to bring the Toyota Hybrid MONOPOLY Ride Experience to show visitors.

A mini road course based on the Monopoly board game will be set up, which will take up 30,000 square feet of space. Professional drivers will take auto show visitors on a ride through an eco-friendly course inspired by the Monopoly game board. And don’t worry about being stuck with the lame shoe game piece – you’ll be driven along the course in either a Prius V wagon, a Camry Hybrid or a Highlander Hybrid. Along the way, players will learn about the features of Toyota hybrid vehicles, as well as take in iconic Monopoly landmarks and meet the Mr. Monopoly character.

“By incorporating design elements from the game into the Toyota Hybrid MONOPOLY Ride Experience, we are able to present the Toyota Hybrid Synergy Drive experience in a fun and unexpected way,” said Keith Dahl, Toyota’s National Engagement Marketing Manager. “This exhibit really gives fans of the game an innovative way to interact with our hybrid vehicles.”

The 2012 Chicago Auto Show takes place February 8 to 19, and if you get a chance to go, it sounds like it’ll be worth your time to drop by Toyota’s game display.

At Peace Arch Toyota we say "bring it to the Vancouver Auto Show".  (I don't like our chances)

The Toyota Corolla has long been the best-selling car of all time, but now it holds an even more impressive title: the world’s best selling vehicle

That may sound the same at first, but the “vehicle” list includes trucks, of which Ford has been selling plenty since it first introduced the F-Series line of trucks in 1948. Back in 2007 the Corolla surpassed the VW Beetle to become the world’s best selling car, and has since quietly moved ahead of the Ford truck line, with sales figures totaling 37.5 million. That’s 2.5 million ahead of the F-Series, an indication that the little Toyota has been in the lead for quite some time.

As for the Beetle, it’s slipped to fourth at 23.5 million units, being surpassed by its sibling, the Golf with 27.5 million units sold. In fifth place is the out-of-production Ford Escort, with 20 million units sold.

See below for a full list of the world’s best selling vehicles:


1. Toyota Corolla (1966-current), 37.5 million
2. Ford, F-150 Series Pick-up (1948-current), 35 million
3. Volkswagen Golf (1974-current), 27.5 million
4. Volkswagen Beetle (1933-current), 23.5 million
5. Ford Escort (1968-2000), 20 million
6. Honda Civic (1972–current), 18.5 million
7. Honda Accord (1976–current), 17.5 million
8. Ford Model T (1908–1927), 16.5 million
9. Volkswagen Passat (1973-current), 15.5 million
10. Chevy Impala (1958–current), 14 million

The first year for the Corolla was 1966. Peace Arch Toyota began in 1966.

Check out the Peace Arch Toyota ad from  May 20,1970.

This ad features the 1970 Corolla

Toyota is recalling 427 2011 RAV4 models because the side-curtain airbags that might not deploy

According to the notice, a propellant with incorrect specifications was used in the airbag inflator. In certain instances that can cause one or both of the devices to fail.
The vehicles included in the recall were made between November 24 and December 11 of last year. As recalls go, this is a pretty small one but interestingly enough, Honda issued an almost-identical recall for the same issue in their Accords and Crosstours today.
It seems the same supplier, Autoliv Americas, does business with both Honda and Toyota. Owners can expect to be contacted by mail if their vehicle is among the affected group.
Peace Arch Toyota will notify any customers who are affected by this recall.

Toyota Canada Inc. launches into 2012 with best January in history

18 % year-over-year increase for Toyota, Lexus and Scion  

 
TORONTO, Feb. 1, 2012 /CNW/ - Toyota Canada Inc. (TCI) started the year off with a record-setting 10,660 sales in January.

 "We are proud to report TCI's best January in history, and we thank our customers. Our new 2012 models, including the Toyota Camry, Toyota Yaris Hatch, the all-new Prius v and the updated Tacoma, continue to be popular with Canadians," said Tony Wearing, Senior Managing Director, Toyota Canada Inc. "We're also looking forward to bringing Canadians 18 more new or refreshed vehicles in the coming months."

 Camry remains #1 for third straight month since launch

Toyota sales highlights for January 2012 (vs. January 2011)

• Total Toyota sales: 9,565 (up 17.2%)

• Toyota car sales: 4,965 (up 13.4%)

• Yaris Hatch sales: 476 (up 188.5%)
• Prius/Prius v sales: 263 (up 176.8%)
• Camry/Camry Hybrid sales: 1,007 (up 168.5%), leads intermediate sedan segment for third month in a row
• Toyota truck sales: 4,600 (up 21.6%) 
• RAV4 sales: 1,428 (up 34.5%)
• Venza sales: 791 (up 33.2%)
• Tacoma sales: 512 (up 22.8%)
• Sienna sales: 693 (up 18.7%)
• 4Runner sales: 234 (up 16.4%)
• Toyota hybrid sales: 501 (up 143.2%)

Lower Prices on 2012 Corolla's at Peace Arch Toyota

(TORONTO) – The Corolla returns in 2012 to deliver reliability, excellent fuel efficiency, safety and exceptional value. With the 2012 models, Canadian drivers can enjoy better-than-ever Corolla value as Toyota Canada adds standard equipment to all trim levels while dropping the MSRP on most – including Canada’s most popular model, the Toyota Corolla CE with Enhanced Convenience Package.
Highlights for 2012
 
·        The Corolla CE with Enhanced Convenience Package receives $648 worth of upgrades for 2012, including a six-speaker audio system with steering wheel-mounted controls, Bluetooth capability and heated seats – even as the MSRP drops on this popular model by $500, to $17,945.
 
·        The MSRP on the Corolla CE with Convenience Package drops by $535 while adding an upgraded six-speaker audio system with integrated Bluetooth and steering wheel-mounted audio controls.
 
·        The Corolla S receives a new audio system, while the MSRP drops by $360, to $20,455. The Corolla S with Moonroof Package now includes automatic headlamps, automatic climate control and seats with color contrast stitching, while the Corolla S with Leather and Moonroof Package now features the Smart Key System with Push Button Start.
 
·        The Corolla XRS is now available in a single, fully-equipped version. Compared to last year’s equivalent model, this top-line Corolla now feature automatic headlamps and automatic climate control as standard features and leather seat surfaces, while the MSRP drops by $170 to $24,840.
 
·        The Corolla LE receives the biggest suite of updates – more than $1,400 worth, including Bluetooth, moon roof and heated seats – for a modest increase in MSRP of $325 to $20,990.
 
·        The Corolla LE and Corolla S receive new Navigation packages. The Corolla S Navigation package starts at $25,110 and features Leather and Moonroof package plus Bluetooth Steering Wheel Controls, Display Audio with Navigation, 6.1-inch display audio, SMS and email-to-speech recognition, phonebook and streaming audio, XM satellite radio and display of artist, song and art for connected iPod. The LE starts at $24,740 and features the premium package plus the features listed above. 
 
“The Toyota Corolla story has always been a story about value, ,” said Tony Wearing, Senior Managing Director, Toyota Canada Inc. “In 2012 on average, we have added $490 worth of new equipment to the 2012 Corolla lineup, while delivering an average reduction in the MSRP of $320. What has never changed is the enduring value that Corolla represents – delivering reliability, comfort, quality and retained value that makes Corolla one of the most popular vehicles on Canadian roads today.”
 
The 2012 Toyota Corolla CE, Corolla LE and Corolla S models are powered by a 132-horsepower, 1.8-litre 4-cylinder engine with Dual Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (Dual VVT-i) that delivers performance and efficiency. For even more impressive performance, the 2012 Corolla XRS is fitted with a 158-horsepower, 2.4-litre 4-cylinder engine with Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i). 
 
Driving confidence is assured with responsive steering and a smooth ride. Electric power steering is quick and precise at all speeds, while boosting fuel efficiency and reducing maintenance costs. Up front, Corolla’s MacPherson struts are optimized to reduce vibration while a light, compact torsion beam suspension holds the rear. Both feature coil springs and are enhanced with stabilizer bars, while the XRS model’s suspension benefits from road-hugging sport-tuning for fun-to-drive handling and agility.
From its impact absorbing structure to advanced active and passive safety systems, every 2012 Toyota Corolla is engineered to help prevent accidents, and to protect driver and passengers if an incident occurs, offering peace of mind to drivers and passengers, including the standard equipped Toyota Star Safety System.



Pricing and availability
The 2012 Toyota Corolla is now on sale at Canadian Toyota Dealers. The Corolla CE carries a manufacturer’s suggested retail price starting at $15,450; the suggested starting price for the Corolla LE is $20,990; The Corolla S starts at a suggested $20,455; and the Corolla XRS carries an MSRP starting at $24,840.

Prius "C" Coming soon to Peace Arch Toyota

Toyota Prius c Completes the Prius Family of Vehicles

• Highest rated city fuel efficiency of any vehicle without a plug
• Introduces proven hybrid powertrain at MSRP below $21,000
• Wide array of available convenience and premium technology
DETROIT, Michigan, Jan.10, 2012 - Following the U.S. debut of the all-new 2012 Prius c at the 2012 North American International Auto Show, Toyota Canada Inc. plans to bring this dynamically styled, five-door hatchback to market in March of 2012, and introduce Toyota's Hybrid Synergy Drive to the subcompact segment.
The letter "c" represents "city" in the Prius c name, designed to function as an urban-friendly vehicle with an engaging driving experience, hatchback utility, and a combined fuel consumption rating of 3.7 L/100 km, Prius c offers the lowest L/100 km rating of any vehicle without a plug. The all-new Prius c joins the Prius Family, which includes the third generation Prius liftback, the versatile new Prius v and the Prius Plug-in Hybrid, which will debut in 2012.

Beginning with the first generation fourteen years ago, over two million Prius units have been sold worldwide. Prius remains the world's premier eco-vehicle brand, and has made great strides establishing consumer trust in hybrid technology. With Prius c, Toyota Canada will make the market's most proven hybrid technology available to subcompact car shoppers with a starting MSRP below $21,000. Call Peace Arch Toyota in the South Surrey White Rock area to learn more about this exciting new arrival

Peace Arch Toyota
3174 King George Blvd
Surrey  British Columbia
Canada V4P 1A2