We’re throwing shade over at Toyota of Orlando━Nightshade that is. The time has come for the Toyota Corolla and Toyota Corolla Hatchback lineup to introduce the special Nightshade Edition for the 2020 model year. With a grand total of six vehicle options, already including the 4Runner, Camry, Sienna, and Highlander, darkness has taken hold of the Toyota family.
Popular Orlando Toyota Sedan Goes Dark
They say it’s all in the details. Already a great option on our lot with its sleek interior, bold exterior, and new grade strategy, the 2020 Toyota Corolla sedan will now offer the same modern look, now in Nightshade. Production will be kicking off this fall on this all-new special edition. Blacked-out accents will now be an available option when purchasing the SE grade.

- This sleek Nightshade Edition of the 2020 Toyota will include features like blacked-out badging, door handles, and window trim.
- The grille will be trimmed with black, as well as the side heated power mirrors, side rocker panels, and 18” alloy wheels.
- In the back, the sedan will also be expected to include a black spoiler and low diffuser area.
- To round it all out, the roof will be adorned with a black shark fin antenna that will act as the cherry on top of this jaw-dropping edition.
The available colors of this popular sedan will include super white, classic silver metallic, and black sand pearl. This limited edition offer will be expected to have an MSRP of $22,750.
Toyota Corolla Hatchback gets the Nightshade Treatment
Last year, the 2019 Toyota Corolla Hatchback made its grand debut as a sporty new addition to the family. It rocked our dealership from the start with its option for a fun Blue Flame exterior and 18” alloy wheels. Now the hatchback will also come in the Nightshade Edition for an even more modern look. Similarly to the sedan, the Nightshade package will soon be available on the hatchback SE grade.

- This special edition of the hatchback will include multiple blacked-out features.
- With its exterior door handles, capped side mirrors, and brand badging all darkened, the hatchback is set to look sleeker than ever.
- This edition will also offer black rockers surrounding the lower perimeter of the vehicle, as well as dark 18” alloy wheels, fabric interior, and inner headlamp frames.
- The blackened shark fin antenna and two factory spoilers will round out this sporty package.
The Nightshade Edition of the sporty hatchback will be expected to have an MSRP of $22,290. Available exterior colors for this 2020 Toyota will include super white, classic silver metallic, and midnight black metallic.
It’s time to get a luxury vehicle without the luxury price tag. This hot ticket item won’t be here next year, so be sure to get your hands on this edition while you can! Give us a call at (407) 298-4500, check us out online at www.ToyotaofOrlando.com, or stop by Toyota of Orlando at 3575 Vineland Rd just off I-4 near the Millenia Mall to learn more today.
The Toyota Tacoma has been a fan favorite for decades running. This versatile truck is loved by consumers because of its adaptability, its sporty style, and its aptitude for both work AND play, on and off the road. 2020 is bringing upgrades to this already-incredible truck, and our Orlando Toyota dealership has the details! Here are 10 things we think you’ll love when you get behind the wheel sometime later this year.

Meet the new 2020 Toyota Tacoma
1) Toyota Safety Sense P will be standard on every single model. This means drivers will have High-Speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, Lane Departure Alert with Sway Warning, Automatic High Beams, and Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection at their fingertips.
2) Every model will also receive a new multimedia system with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa compatibility, Sirius XM Satellite Radio, Bluetooth, and more.
3) Almost every new 2020 model will feature a new grille and new wheels. For example, the TRD Sport model will showcase 17″ wheels while the Limited bumps up to 18″ wheels.
4) The TRD Pro model will come standard with 4WDemand part-time 4-wheel drive, as well as electronically-controlled locking rear differential and transfer case. It’ll also boast Rigid Industries fog lights for added visibility on dark trails.
5) All V6 models of this Orlando Toyota truck will come with the Tow package, which includes an automatic transmission fluid cooler, engine oil cooler, Trailer Sway Control, 4 & 7 pin converter, a Class IV receiver hitch, and 130-amp alternator.
6) The new TRD Pro model will also feature highlights like a Panoramic View Monitor and Multi-terrain Monitor, which can help you get a better grasp of your surroundings AND even see under your vehicle to avoid obstacles in your path.
7) The 2020 Toyota Tacoma Limited is getting appearance upgrades with new 18″ wheels, LED headlights and daytime running lights, a redesigned grille, and chrome taillamp inserts.
See what upgrades this Orlando Toyota is bringing to the lot later this year

8) The TRD Off-Road model isn’t getting forgotten, either. It’ll get a new front grille with LED fog lights, as well as tech upgrades like Passenger Smart Key Entry and a multi-terrain monitor. You’ll also find that it’s showcasing TRD-tuned Bilstein shocks and locking rear differential.
9) The base model of the 2020 Toyota Tacoma, the SR, will showcase an updated 7″ touchscreen audio system, while the SR5 and up get 8″ screens.
10) You’ll have two engine choices – a 2.7L DOHC 4-cylinder engine with 159 horsepower and 180 lb-ft of torque, or a 3.5L V6 with 278 horsepower and 265 lb-ft of torque.
AND this new Orlando Toyota will be about as customizable as it gets. You’ll find that it’s available in six models – the SR, SR5, TRD Sport, TRD Off-Road, TRD Pro, and Limited – and 30 different configurations in the 2020 model year!
We’ll keep you posted as to its arrival date at Toyota of Orlando – follow us on social media for updates. You can also come test drive the 2019 Toyota Tacoma model so you can see what it’s like behind the wheel – visit us at 3575 Vineland Road, just off I-4 near the Millenia Mall.
Here at Toyota of Orlando, we know we sell the best of the best when it comes to cars. We know that Toyotas are globally appreciated for their safety, their reliability, their unbeatable performance records, and their cutting-edge technology for both safety and convenience. However, we’re probably biased. It’s a good thing Consumer Reports agrees with us, right?

Which new Toyotas are top 10 placeholders?
The organization recently released their 10 Best Cars of the Year list for 2019 and Toyota took four of the 10 categories without even batting an eye (and let us also point out that no other make managed to snag more than one category with the exception of Subaru, which claimed two). Toyota of Orlando has the scoop on why our new Toyotas are dominating when it comes to the best cars on the market this year – check it out.
Here are the four categories that Toyota won:
- Large Car, Toyota Avalon Hybrid
- Subcompact Car, Toyota Yaris
- Hybrid/Electric Car, Toyota Prius
- Midsized Car, Toyota Camry Hybrid
And the victories were hard fought. After all, Consumer Reports doesn’t designate a car as one of the best 10 in the nation lightly. It takes into consideration four main categories – safety, road-test performance, owner satisfaction, and predicted reliability. All vehicles on the list were required to have certain features, including automatic emergency braking. The reviewers also looked at factors like fuel efficiency, convenience, braking, handling, and comfort inside the cabin. Additionally, Consumer Reports examined each car’s score when it comes to government and insurance company crash tests.
Toyota also had to edge out the competition to claim these four spots. More than 50 cars were tested by Consumer Reports and the organization also analyzed data from Auto Survey, which collects information on close to 470,000 vehicles. In their words, the vehicles that are chosen to be the top 10 “set the standard for the industry”.
See each of these new Toyotas in person at Toyota of Orlando
So, what does each of these new Toyotas have to offer? Here’s a quick rundown of the four that snagged top 10 spots.
- Toyota Avalon Hybrid: This is a hybrid model of the luxurious original Toyota, a sedan renowned for its comfortable interior, top technology, sleek style, and polished features.
- Toyota Yaris: If you want a new Toyota that’s efficient, sporty, and fun, then the Orlando Toyota Yaris is your solution. It’s available in both sedan and liftback models and gets 30/37 mpg to save you big bucks at the gas pump.
- Toyota Prius: The hybrid that started it all. This new Toyota is best known for kicking off the hybrid car revolution and is a fan favorite due to its innovative technology both inside the cabin and under the hood. Plus, its performance is as green as it gets.
- Toyota Camry Hybrid: This model is the hybrid version of our best-selling classic – the Toyota Camry. It’s renowned for its sophistication, quiet and comfortable cabin, and incredible performance capabilities across the nation.
Have questions about these top 10 cars or want to take any and all of them for a test drive? Call us today – Toyota of Orlando is open seven days a week at (407) 298-4500!
6 tools to have if you do DIY car maintenance
Are you a fan of taking matters into your own hands when it comes to car maintenance? Some people are confident with the workings under the hood and like to take a DIY approach when it comes to caring for your car. However, if you’re going to get serious about maintaining your ride, you need to have the right tools to do it. We sat down with some of our Toyota certified techs here at Toyota of Orlando to find out exactly what you should be investing in for an exceptional DIY car maintenance experience.

Toyota of Orlando’s recommendations for DIY car care
Tool #1: A headlamp and a work light
You want the best possible lighting when you’re doing DIY car maintenance. A good work light can illuminate your workspace, but you should also invest in a headlamp. This will keep you hands-free and lend light when you’re trying to get down into the nooks and crannies of the engine.
Tool #2: An air compressor
If you’re going to be using power tool, you definitely want to invest in an air compressor. It’ll power the tools much more efficiently and make your DIY car maintenance that much easier. On top of that, an air compressor can be used to inflate tires.
Tool #3: A stubby screwdriver
Things can get tight under the hood and sometimes, normal tools just can’t get the job done. Our Orlando auto service techs recommend investing in a set of stubby screwdrivers or at least one or two. It’s shorter than a normal screwdriver but still gives you the control you need.
Don’t attempt your own car maintenance without these tools
Tool #4: Extension bars for your socket wrenches
You’ll definitely make use of your socket wrenches when doing DIY car care but sometimes, it can be tricky to get them down into the engine where you need to use them. Invest in extension bars for these wrenches – they can give you length when you need it to get down into the engine, and socket swivels will ensure you have more flexibility.
Tool #5: A quality jack stand
If you’re going to be working under your car then you’ll need to jack it up. However, you need to do so safely because using just anything to prop your car up can end in serious injury. Buy a high-quality jack stand for ensured safety and avoid a hydraulic stand – they have higher failure rates and can be more dangerous.
Tool #6: A multimeter
A multimeter measures power, currents, and resistance of different parts of your car. Additionally, you can test the voltage of your battery with it to see if you’re due for a replacement.
Not sure where to shop for these tools? Call Toyota of Orlando’s parts center! We can point you in the right direction and also answer car maintenance questions that you might have. You can reach us 7 days a week at (407) 298-0001. Our Orlando Toyota service center is conveniently located at 3575 Vineland Road, just off I-4 near the Millenia Mall.
What’s the coolest car accessory you’ve ever seen?
When it comes to accessorizing your car, you’ve got a lot of options. Whether you want car accessories for performance, appearance, entertainment, or convenience, the choices are seemingly endless (and you can get a lot of them right here at Toyota of Orlando). However, some drivers take it pretty far when it comes to accessorizing their rides. What’s the coolest car accessory you’ve ever seen? Check out some of these interesting finds we’ve stumbled upon and decide if it’s time to break out the credit card and take your car up a notch.
1) Rooftop tent
If you’re into camping but not so much into dirt, bugs, and creepy-crawlies, then check out a rooftop tent for your ride. These incredible tents can be fitted to almost any vehicle and you just need a ladder to climb up. Some come outfitted with a comfy mattress and you can add additional “living” space by hanging an annex below the roofline for changing, hanging out, and eating.
2) 3D DIY molding for the interior
Sick of the so-so color scheme inside of your car? Check out 3D DIY automobile molding by Geekercity. You can trim out the interior of your car with pops of color of your choice and really take the style up a notch. However, you can also use it on the exterior if you want to add some excitement to your drive time.
3) Crystal embellishment ring for push button start
If you like a little bling in your life, why not start with the interior of your car? You can add a crystal embellishment ring to your push button start so you have a little sparkle in your life every time you start your engine.
4) Portable jump starter
There’s nothing more inconvenient than a car that won’t start… even if you carry jumper cables, you still have to wait around for another car to give you a jump and get you going. Why not take that element out of the equation? You can now purchase a portable jump starter that will give your car enough juice to get to a mechanic and you use it just like you would normal jumper cables.
5) Smart wheel steering wheel cover
Everyone likes steering wheel covers – they protect your steering wheel from dirt, sunlight, and wear and tear. But this car accessory takes things up a notch by actually using intelligence to help prevent distracted driving. It fits any steering wheel and uses sensing technology to encourage drivers to keep their hands on the wheel and stay focused – it’s a great buy for teen drivers.
6) ZipGripGo
Have you ever found yourself stuck in sand, snow, or mud with nothing to give you traction in sight? Store ZipGripGo in your trunk – it’s a car accessory that fastens around your car’s tire to give it traction in slippery situations and get you out.
Want to shop car accessories for your ride? Call Toyota of Orlando at (407) 298-0001 and ask for our parts department!
Toyota working on moon buggy
Just when we thought Toyota couldn’t get any cooler…
They start building a MOON BUGGY. Yup, you heard us right. The automotive giant who’s renowned across the planet is now working on taking their technology into space, collaborating with a space agency in Japan to create a moon buggy.
Toyota of Orlando has the scoop on the Toyota lunar rover
The moon buggy, which is slated to come to fruition in 2029, will be a fuel-cell-powered electric lunar rover. It can carry two people and travel thousands of miles on one charge; additionally, those two people will be able to survive without space suits on while inside the moon buggy. This is big new for astronauts, who typically can’t be outside of the space station or shuttle without their suits on.
Here’s what our Orlando Toyota dealership knows about the new Toyota moon buggy so far:
- Toyota has signed on to work with JAXA, a Japanese space agency, on the project. Toyota had been looking into the possibility of building a lunar rover in 2018, but this week an agreement was signed to speed up the process and get the ball rolling.
- It will hopefully be launched into space in 2029, heading straight to the surface of the moon for major exploration in the 30’s.
- It will be about 20 feet long and 17 feet wide, or the size of 2 minibuses (with a cabin that’s about 140 square feet).
- The moon buggy will be manned and have pressurized cabins to allow for the removal of spacesuits.
- They would be used to explore and use the lunar surface.
- The vehicles will be fuel-cell and solar powered since they can travel a lot further than battery-powered cars without recharging. Toyota is estimating that each moon buggy will have a range of 6,200 miles per charge.
- The range is important – in the past, moon buggies had a very short range and had to return to the moon lander each night to refuel. Typically, astronauts could only get around 22 miles out of the performance.
- This lunar rover will be more like an RV for the astronauts. They can explore and work but then also eat and sleep inside of it, which means they can range further since they won’t have to return to a base point every night.
- The rover will actually land independently on the moon before the astronauts arrive, and will travel independently to meet them at a predetermined destination.
All in all, this collaboration means one big thing – living on the moon is closer than we thought and more of a possibility than ever before. Thoroughly exploring the surface of the moon will allow us to better understand what living conditions would be like and plan more accurately for humans to take the plunge.
Want more info on the Toyota moon buggy or any of the other amazing technology up for grabs on our Orlando Toyota cars? Call us today – Toyota of Orlando is open seven days a week at (407) 298-4500.
2021 Toyota Sienna spotted
The Orlando Toyota Sienna has been a family favorite for some time now. It’s efficient, spacious, convenient, and as safe as it gets… and on top of that, it’s been dubbed the “swagger wagon” for its seriously sleek style. However, it looks like the next generation of this Toyota minivan is about to offer even more – photos of the 2021 Toyota Sienna were recently taken as it hit the road for a test drive, and we’ve got the details.
What will the 2021 Toyota Sienna have to offer?
Judging from the photos, it looks like the already spacious Orlando Toyota Sienna will be packing even more of a punch when it comes to interior room after its redesign. The test vehicle had a longer AND wider wheelbase, and some are surmising that it’s sitting on the new TNGA platform that Toyota has steadily been infusing into the lineup. TNGA stands for Toyota New Global Architecture, and this new principle is being applied to each and every vehicle that Toyota produces. Here are the five principles that TNGA encompasses:
- Driving quality (a satisfying drive time)
- Comfort (so you want to keep driving)
- User-friendliness
- Pride of ownership
- Security (working toward a better society)
Find out what we love about this Orlando Toyota minivan

We can’t wait to see what the new 2021 Toyota Sienna has to offer – from the photos, all we can really tell is that it will be bigger. However, if you’re in the market for a new family vehicle NOW, we highly recommend the 2019 model. It’s spacious, stylish, and teched out; check out some of our favorite features yet!
- It’s affordable, first of all. The starting MSRP for this Orlando Toyota is just $31,315.
- It comes in seven different models so you’ll have plenty of choices, and you’ll also be able to seat up to 8 inside depending on the model you choose.
- It’s decked out with a powerful but efficient 3.5L V6 engine – it gets 296 horsepower and 263 lb-ft of torque, but still manages a money-saving 19 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway.
- The 2019 Toyota Sienna offers an incredibly versatile interior. Seats fold flat and stowaway to create maximum cargo space, and you’ll also love the option of comfortable and functional captain’s chairs in the second row.
- Each model comes standard with Toyota Safety Sense P, and Advanced Airbag System, and the Star Safety System to give you the security you need no matter where your busy life takes you. You’ll also find safety tech like a bird’s eye view camera, four LATCH points for car seats, Safety Connect Services, and a Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross Traffic Alert up for grabs.
- Staying connected is easy in this minivan – you’ll have features like navigation, Bluetooth, HD radio, Sirius XM Satellite Radio, and more at your fingertips.
Don’t wait – get your hands on this incredible new Toyota today at Toyota of Orlando. We’re open seven days a week at 3575 Vineland Road, just off I-4 near the Millenia Mall. You can call to schedule your test drive at (407) 298-4500.
5 car wash tips to get your car ready for summer
Summer is on its way! Spring has definitely sprung here in Central Florida – the weather is warming up, the skies are blue, and it’s time to hit the road and head to the beach, the trails, the springs, and more. However, you want to ensure that your car is not only prepped and ready, but also that it looks good for the drive. If you’re a DIY type of driver who likes to tackle car care in their own driveway, check it out – here are 5 car wash tips to help you get your ride like-new in a matter of minutes.

Car wash like a pro in your own driveway
Tip #1: Use the right products.
It’s essential to use the right products when you’re conducting a car wash. Using the wrong soap – like dish soap – can actually strip the wax off of your car AND dull the shine and paint. On top of that, the wrong product can even damage your clear coat or paint and leave you susceptible to rust. Pick the right products, and if you’re not sure which is best for your car, ask our Orlando Toyota parts store. We keep plenty of car wash products in stock and can point you in the right direction.
Tip #2: Don’t wash in the sun.
It’s tempting to work on your tan while you wash, but don’t do it. The key to a clean car is keeping it thoroughly wet while you’re washing, soaping, and rinsing. If you wash in the direct sunlight, it’s likely that water will dry quickly in certain areas and leave you with annoying water spots. Wash in the shade or try to wash your car in the early morning or early evening when the sun isn’t so harsh. If all else fails, just make sure to keep the entire car wet while you wash.
Tip #3: If you drop something on the ground, don’t use it again.
If you drop your sponge, don’t pick it up and use it again. Chances are that even if you rinse it off, sand or dirt particles will still be stuck on it. If you proceed to use it, the sand or dirt can actually cause tiny scratches in the clearcoat or paint. Keep an extra sponge and cloth handy!
Tip #4: Dry with microfiber.
When drying your car – which you’ll want to do by hand so you don’t get water spots – opt for a microfiber towel. Other fabrics can be abrasive on your car’s paint and they’re not as good when it comes to absorption. Shop our Orlando Toyota parts store for microfiber options.
Tip #5: Top it off with a coat of wax.
Finish off your car wash with a fresh coat of wax 3-4 times a year. Wax will protect your paint and keep it shiny, saving you time and money in the long run. Just remember not to wax your car in direct sunlight, either.
Shop Toyota of Orlando’s parts store for supplies
Want more car wash tips or need supplies? Call Toyota of Orlando today! You can reach us seven days a week at (407) 298-4500.
How to deal with a cracked windshield
It’s happened to so many of us – you’re cruising down the highway, enjoying the lack of traffic and the fact that you may just make it to work on time when something flies up and hits your windshield. You may not even see it – you just hear a sharp popping noise and suddenly, you’re staring at a crack in the windshield. While it may not be an emergency that you have to pull over and deal with that very second, it is an issue that needs to be fixed so it doesn’t lead to bigger problems down the road. Toyota of Orlando’s body shop is here to explain the ins and outs of cracked windshields and what to do about them.

The ins and outs of a cracked windshield
It’s tempting to just ignore a cracked windshield, especially if the crack or chip is small and isn’t right in the middle of your field of vision. Who has time to bring their car into a body shop for repairs and who wants to pay for them if the damage isn’t large or noticeable?
This is a bad idea.
First of all, it’s illegal to drive with a cracked windshield in the state of Florida. If a police officer pulls you over, you can be ticketed. If the damage is bad enough, your car can even be towed – all of this is explained in statute 316.610, where it states that it’s illegal to operate a vehicle that’s unsafe or a danger to other drivers. You’ll save yourself time, money, and stress if you just deal with the crack yourself and get it fixed.
Another reason you should never ignore a cracked windshield is that no matter how small the crack, it’s still a crack. And that means that it’s affecting your windshield’s structural integrity. The chances of the crack or chip growing larger are high and then it becomes very dangerous for you to get behind the wheel. It’s best to contact your local Orlando body shop and deal with the issue while it’s still small and more manageable.
Here’s the good news – because there’s a statute deeming it illegal to drive with a cracked windshield, there’s also a Florida statute stating that auto insurance companies must repair or replace a cracked windshield with zero deductible… in other words, for FREE.
Let our body shop help you get back out on the road
So what should you do? Our Orlando Toyota body shop recommends that the moment you see a crack appear in your windshield, you call your insurance company and report the claim. You can work with them to schedule a time and place to have your windshield either repaired or replaced, depending on the severity and size of the crack. They can even send someone out to do it while you’re at work! It’s that simple and remember – it’s 100% free through your auto insurance.
If you have questions, call our body shop today! Toyota of Orlando is conveniently located at 3575 Vineland Road, just off I-4 near the Millenia Mall, and you can reach us at (407) 298-6006.
The New York Auto Show is set to kick off this Friday – April 19 will unveil a host of new vehicles, both production and concept. We can’t wait to see what this iconic show brings to the forefront of the auto industry, especially since Toyota will be revealing two all-new models to the public. Here are the two new Toyotas you should be on the lookout for during this exciting automotive show.
Which new Toyotas will be unveiled at the end of this week?
#1: 2020 Toyota Yaris Hatchback
The 2020 Toyota Yaris Hatchback is taking things to a new level in the hatchback world. This new Toyota promises a new 1.5L 4-cylinder engine with direct and high compression fuel injection as well as a Sport driving mode and new MacPherson Strut front suspension and torsion beam rear suspension. You’ll also love the new look it’s bringing to the table. It has a “cab rearward” focus, which means it sits lower and has a sportier and more aggressive stance. It’s also showcasing a new lower front grille and new LED headlights, daytime running lights, and fog lights, as well as 16″ alloy wheels and a chrome tailpipe. This Orlando Toyota will further bring brand new paint colors to complement its refreshed design and turn heads with a sleek new interior that mixes sportiness with sophistication. And did we mention that thanks to its new design, this Orlando Toyota is more spacious than ever?

#2: 2020 Toyota Highlander
We don’t know much about this new Toyota SUV. Last week Toyota introduced a pretty amazing concept video that showcased what it could look like through “augmented reality”. The Orlando Toyota Highlander hasn’t been redesigned since 2014, so it’s definitely due for a refresh and we can’t wait to see what Toyota has in mind. From what we can tell, the new design looks similar to the old one but has a more aggressive rear and looks to be a little more sculpted in terms of exterior lines and curves. We also can guess that it’ll still offer a 3.5L V6 engine under the hood as well as a go-green hybrid model for drivers who are eco-conscious. Additionally, we know it’ll still be a 3-seater that’s dedicated to a seamless blend of style AND family-friendliness, and that it’ll be out in the end of this year for you to drive home.
The New York Auto Show is a big deal, and not just because these exciting new Toyotas are going to be unveiled. More than 1,000 new cars, trucks, SUVs, and minivans will be debuted at the show from automakers all over the world. Both up-and-coming production models AND futuristic concept models are featured, and the show will run for nearly 10 days to give everyone a glimpse of the wide variety of vehicles. And the best part? It’s open to the public – which means YOU can check out these new Toyotas in person.
Follow Toyota of Orlando to learn more about these 2020 models
For more information on the 2020 Toyota Yaris Hatchback and 2020 Toyota Highlander, follow Toyota of Orlando on social media! You’ll get our latest breaking news and updates at our Instagram and Facebook, or you can call (407) 298-4500 for more information.

