When it comes to buying a hybrid, you may feel limited. After all, there are a lot more gasoline-powered options out there than green cars. However, the 2018 Toyota Prius c has arrived at Toyota of Orlando and we think this sporty and compact hatchback is a perfect drive time solution. Don’t believe us? See what it has in store for you this year.

The 2018 Toyota Prius c is eco-friendly and fuel-efficient, sure. What hybrid isn’t? But this car packs a much bigger punch than just performance, also bringing the latest and greatest technology and edgy style to the table as well. Check out some of our favorite features on this new Orlando Toyota.

You’ll love getting into the driver’s seat of the new 2018 Toyota Prius c

Style: This green car is compact, sporty, and has edgy features that put it in front of the pack when it comes to appearance. You’ll love bright paint colors like Tide Pool Pearl, Tangerine Splash Pearl, and Moonglow to turn heads wherever your drive time takes you. The 2018 model of the Toyota Prius c also showcases stylistic highlights like a rear spoiler, 16″ 8-spoke alloy wheels, LED headlights, fog lights, and a sleek and sophisticated SofTex interior (it’s a durable, leather-like material).

Technology: Lots of people assume that Toyota hybrids only really have the best technology under the hood. However, this Orlando Toyota is well-rounded when it comes to having the latest and greatest features. It offers tech like Entune Premium Audio with integrated navigation, a backup camera, the Smart Key System with a push button start, and the Entune App Suite. Entertainment technology is also tops, bringing you features like Sirius XM Satellite Radio, Bluetooth wireless streaming, and iPod connectivity via a USB 2.0 port.

Performance: One of the biggest highlights of signing the dotted line for a new 2018 Toyota Prius c is definitely the performance. This green car cuts down on smog-forming emissions and also manages a staggering 48/43 mpg, so fuel costs are next to nothing. You’ll also enjoy your drive time with features like seating for five and 17.1 cubic feet of cargo space, Toyota Safety Sense P, and a Vehicle Proximity Notification System. Plus, you’ll feel good about doing your part for the planet every time you get behind the wheel.

Affordability: Owning the 2018 Toyota Prius c is incredibly feasible thanks to the aforementioned fuel efficiency, but you’ll also love the price tag. The starting MSRP for this compact hybrid is just $20,630.

See what owning a hybrid car is all about at Toyota of Orlando

And that’s just the tip of the iceberg. We can’t get enough of this city-friendly compact hatchback, and we think it’ll be love at first sight for you, too. Why not get behind the wheel and see for yourself? You can take a test drive today to see just how green your commute can get.

Schedule your appointment now – call us at (407) 298-4500, or stop into Toyota of Orlando. We’re open seven days a week until 10pm for your convenience and we’re located just off I-4 near the Millenia Mall at 3575 Vineland Road.

Posted in New Toyota | No Comments »

When it comes down to horsepower and torque, which one matters the most? Which should you be more concerned about when purchasing a new vehicle? Toyota of Orlando is here to break down these performance qualities so you know exactly what they are, how they work, and why they’re important. Then you can get shopping for the perfect new Toyota.

First, let’s get into the definitions. Horsepower is a unit used to measure power. Scientifically speaking, it’s equal to 550 lb-ft per second. In car ownership terms, it’s the amount of power that the new Toyota you’re shopping can produce via the engine. Torque is a little more complex, but to break it down into simple terms related to car performance, it’s a measure of turning power in the engine. In essence, it’s the muscle of the vehicle.

• Why is horsepower important? Basically, it’s what makes your car go fast. Horsepower translates to acceleration which is why it’s such an important element in race cars and high-performance vehicles. Additionally, the more a car weighs the more horsepower it needs to get going (and the lighter the car is, the faster it’ll hit high speeds, especially when paired with high horsepower). Horsepower allows you to accelerate rapidly to your desired speed; without it, you’ll be going nowhere fast.
• Why is torque important? Torque is like a “muscle” in the car, as mentioned above. It’s especially important if you want to tow or haul heavy items as it’s the force that allows you to do so. You can have all the horsepower you want in a vehicle but if you don’t have torque, you won’t be able to move a heavy load.

Obviously, these two forces work hand-in-hand to give you maximized performance. But which one is more important to you when you’re shopping our new Toyotas at Toyota of Orlando? Here are some things to consider before making a decision:

• Horsepower translates to quickness. If you want a fast car that’s fun to maneuver and could even be capable of the track, then you want a car with high horsepower to get you where you need to go. An example? The new Toyota 86. It has a 2.0L 4-cylinder engine that puts out 205 horsepower. Combine that with rear-wheel drive and you’ll be able to easily satisfy your need for speed.
• Torque means towing. If you want to tow a heavy load or haul a lot in your bed, you definitely want the torque to make it happen. A great example of a torque-heavy vehicle is the new Toyota Tundra. This powerful truck gets 401 lb-ft of torque so you’re able to tow up to 10,000 pounds without batting an eye.

Having trouble deciding which performance factor is more important? Call Toyota of Orlando today at (407) 298-4500. Our sales specialists can answer any questions and set up a test drive for your next ride today.

Posted in Toyota of Orlando's Tips | No Comments »

The New York International Auto Show has officially kicked off and we can’t wait to see what new cars and concept vehicles Toyota has to unveil over the course of the show. However, they’ve already started things off with a bang – the all-new 2019 Toyota Corolla Hatchback has been revealed, and we can’t wait to get our hands on this super-sporty and teched-out option. Toyota of Orlando’s got the scoop on what it will have to offer!

Meet the newest addition to the Orlando Toyota family

First things first – when will this hot new ride be available for purchase? Toyota is forecasting that it’ll hit dealership lots this summer and be available in two trim-levels (SE and XSE), so we’ll be sure to keep you posted as to when it’ll arrive at Toyota of Orlando. Now let’s talk more about the specs it’s going to be showcasing so you can decide if you want to climb into the driver’s seat.

Everyone loves the original Orlando Toyota Corolla – it’s a sporty sedan that screams youth and offers great fuel efficiency and a reliable performance. The 2019 Toyota Corolla, however, takes style to a new level and then some.

• It’s sophisticated and sleek, offering a lower and wider wheelbase and a redesigned front with a rounded hood nose and a new grilled.
• New LED headlights and taillights increase the sporty edge that this hatchback offers and you’ll be able to choose from a variety of alloy wheels ranging from 16″ – 18″.
• The car is designed with new materials (Toyota Super Olefin Polymer & Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) to make it extremely lightweight and allow it to sit at a steeper angle.
• A new paint color, Rival Blue, will join the lineup of already eye-catching hues available.
• You’ll also love edgy details like chrome diffusers and adaptive front lighting systems.
• The interior showcases high-gloss materials paired with matte materials and combination leather to create a plush but minimalist design theme.

The 2019 Toyota Corolla Hatchback is sportier and more performance-driven than ever

Let’s talk tech. The 2019 Toyota Corolla Hatchback showcases major upgrades like:

• Dual zone climate control
• Entune 3.0 with an 8″ touchscreen audio system
• Smart Key System with Push Button Start
• HD Radio with weather and traffic
• Sirius XM Satellite Radio
• Scout GPS navigation
• USB 2.0 port with iPod connectivity
• A JBL 8-speaker audio system
• Dynamic voice recognition
• Bluetooth wireless streaming
• A 7″ multi-information display
• Electronic parking brake
• Siri Eyes Free

And top safety technology like Toyota Safety Sense and Lane Tracing Assist.

What about performance? This new Orlando Toyota is lightweight and sporty, which translates to great fuel efficiency. On top of that, you’ll love getting behind the wheel thanks to features like:

• A new TNGA 2.0L 5-cylinder engine with six-speed manual transmission
• Dynamic shift CVT for more power
• Sport-tuned suspension
• A lower center of gravity for more maneuverability
• D-4S fuel injection system

All in all, it’s an impressive mix of components. We don’t have information about pricing yet, but we should relatively soon as we expect this car’s imminent arrival!

Want more information? Call Toyota of Orlando today at (407) 298-4500!

Posted in New Toyota | No Comments »

Are you due for a tire replacement? We know – those are probably the last two words you want to hear. Tires aren’t inexpensive and replacing one means you’ll have to invest a little bit of money into your ride. However, having reliable and safe tires is imperative for your drive time for your safety, performance, and efficiency. Toyota of Orlando is here with 4 surefire signs you’re due for a tire replacement – see what our Orlando auto service techs have to say about it.

Do you REALLY need a tire replacement?

Sign #1: You’re losing tire pressure regularly. 

Do you find yourself having to add air to your tires on a constant basis because they’re losing pressure? This isn’t normal, just FYI. Your tires do lose a little pressure over time just because of wear and tear or when the weather fluctuates from hot to cold, but you shouldn’t have to regularly fill just one tire due to low pressure levels. If you find yourself in this situation, you’re likely due for a tire replacement.

Sign #2: There’s significant physical damage to the tire. 

Have you gotten into a collision, run into a curb, ran over something sharp, or otherwise seriously damaged your tire? Sometimes you can fix a flat by plugging a nail hole or slapping a patch on, but tears, large punctures, bubbles or blisters, or sidewall separation usually call for a replacement so you don’t have a blowout on your hands in the near future.

Sign #3: Your car is vibrating while in motion. 

Do you feel your vehicle vibrating when you hit the road? Vibrations can be caused by a number of issues, but tires are a top culprit to this drive time problem. If there’s something wrong with the tire then it throws the rest of them out of balance, and this can cause uncomfortable vibrations. Bring your car to our Orlando Toyota service center to have our techs check it out and see if a tire replacement will solve the issue.

Sign #4: The tread is too low. 

There’s no fixing low tread – you can’t patch it or plug it to make it grow back. Tread is essential for traction and when your tire’s tread gets too low, you lose control over your vehicle. The best way to check if the tread is too low is to do the penny test. Stick a penny into the tread with Abe Lincoln’s head down. If you can see the top of his head, your tread is way too low and it’s time for a tire replacement.

Bring your ride to Toyota of Orlando for any and all tire-related services

Luckily for you, our Toyota of Orlando service techs can help you quickly spot and take care of a tire replacement, AND we offer exceptional service specials and price matching on tires. Don’t wait – bring your car into our state-of-the-art service center today! We’re conveniently located just off I-4 near the Millenia Mall at 3575 Vineland Road.

Posted in Toyota Service | No Comments »

What is true cost to own?

It’s undoubtedly a phrase you’ve heard before, especially if you’re researching cars. However, do you know what it really means or how it applies to you? Toyota of Orlando is here to explain exactly what true cost to own is and why it’s important to factor into your car shopping process.

Learn how to calculate true cost to own

True cost to own is just what it sounds like – what it REALLY costs to own a car. Most drivers assume that when budgeting for a new ride, they really just need to worry about setting aside money for a down payment and then the monthly car payment if they’re going to finance the vehicle. There’s a lot more to it than that! Take a closer look at exactly what you need to budget for besides the monthly payment when planning to get behind the wheel for a new ride.

• Fuel costs: How much will it cost to keep your car gassed up every month? Some vehicles are more fuel-efficient than others – for example, the Orlando Toyota Prius gets much higher efficiency than the Toyota Tundra. Be sure to calculate how much it’ll cost you to keep your car running or the fuel costs could be the part of the equation that just doesn’t add up.
• Insurance: It’s illegal (and dangerous!) to drive a vehicle without insurance. In fact, you can’t buy a car without insurance most places! But how much will it cost you to insure your new ride? Rates will vary based on whether it’s new or used, your financing, your neighborhood, and your prior driving habits. It’s always smart to call around and get an idea of how much insurance will run you so you can add it to your true cost to own.
• Depreciation: Cars depreciate – there’s no getting around it. You can lose 20-30% of the value of a new car just driving it off the lot. While this may not affect your monthly costs, it WILL affect how much money you get for the vehicle if you decide to sell or trade in a few years down the road. Be sure to pick a car that holds its value well, and do what you need to do to keep the resale value high.
• Routine car maintenance: How much will it cost to keep your car running in tip-top shape? Take a look at the recommended maintenance schedule for the car you’re considering and calculate the cost of oil changes, tire rotations and balancing, brake service, and any other routine car care the vehicle will need. And don’t forget to have a small sum set aside for unforeseen repairs!
• State fees: You have to pay to register your car yearly – driving without it is illegal. Calculate how much it’ll cost to register your car and factor it into your overall budget on a yearly basis.

Toyota of Orlando can help you calculate costs

Ready to shop? Toyota of Orlando is ready to get you into the driver’s seat. To schedule a test drive or get more information about the true cost to own of a particular car on our lot, call us today! We’re ready and waiting at (407) 298-4500.

Tags: owning a car, true cost to own
Posted in Toyota of Orlando's Tips | No Comments »

If you’ve ever made a big purchase – a car, a motorcycle, a boat, etc. – you’ve probably heard the term “vehicle depreciation” bandied about. But what does it mean, and more specifically, what does it mean for your investment? Toyota of Orlando is here to explain vehicle depreciation and how you can counteract it to hold onto the resale value in your next ride.

Why should you worry about vehicle depreciation?

Here’s the bottom line: when you buy a car, it depreciates. Simply put, this means that it loses value over time because of the wear and tear you put it through. Most cars lose 15-35% of their value in the first year (!!) and then up to 50% or more in the next three. This affects your car’s resale value and in turn, affects how much money you’ll get when you sell or trade it in down the line. Some vehicles depreciate less quickly than others; for example, Toyotas are renowned in the automotive world for holding their value well and getting you more bang for your buck as they age in comparison to other makes and models.

How can you keep your Orlando Toyota’s value high?

So, how can you combat vehicle depreciation? Here are some quick Orlando Toyota tips to help you retain the existing value in your vehicle and get the money you deserve when you sell or trade in down the line.

Tip #1: Do your research. Find out which makes and models hold value the best and base your final purchase on that data.

Tip #2: Stay on top of auto service. Keep your car on a routine car maintenance schedule at Toyota of Orlando for things like oil changes, tires rotations, etc., and be sure to take care of repairs as quickly as possible. A well-maintained car will hold its value and depreciate less than one that misses maintenance appointments on the regular.

Tip #3: Watch your mileage. You bought the car to drive it, sure. But cars with more miles on them depreciate faster! Keep your mileage at a reasonable number to try and retain some of the resale value already built into your ride.

Tip #4: Consider elements like size, paint color, and fuel efficiency. These elements may or may not be important to you, but they definitely affect vehicle depreciation. Larger cars that cost more upfront tend to lose their value than smaller, more affordable models. Additionally, you should choose neutral paint colors when shopping because those are more desirable to future shoppers down the road. And finally, choose something fuel-efficient – the more economical a car is with fuel, the more desirable it’ll be to a future buyer.

Tip #5: Buy for your climate. All-wheel drives are popular in climates with lots of snow and ice, but they aren’t as in-demand in climates like Florida where we don’t see much besides rain. Think about where you live and where you might sell or trade-in before you buy.

Want a trade-in appraisal or need to get on a routine car care schedule? Call Toyota of Orlando today – we’re open seven days a week for your convenience at (407) 298-4500.

Posted in Toyota of Orlando's Tips | No Comments »

When you shop for a used car, you want to know where it’s been before you decide where it’s going. Information about its life before it ended up in your test drive can help you make an informed decision about whether or not it’s the right car for you. This is where a used car history report comes into play – our Orlando Toyota dealership highly recommends requesting one before you purchase any pre-owned vehicle.

What is a used car history report?

A used car history report gives you pertinent information about that particular vehicle’s past. Not only can it help you fact-check certain characteristics of the vehicle (like accident damage or mileage), it can also give you a clearer idea of how the car was cared for and maintained by previous owners. Reports like CarFax – which we offer on every used car at Toyota of Orlando – can give you a more sound peace of mind when it comes to buying something pre-owned. Explore these four reasons why we think it’s a good idea to request one of these reports before you sign the dotted line!

1) Car maintenance records

You should always take a look at the previous car maintenance before you buy a pre-owned vehicle. If the vehicle has been routinely maintenanced and cared for, you’re less likely to deal with performance issues and auto repairs in the future. Routine auto service also extends the life of a vehicle, as well as the parts inside of it, ensuring that your car still has plenty of miles left to go before it has to be retired.

2) Mileage

Sure, you can see the mileage on the car’s odometer. But if you’re purchasing a pre-owned vehicle from a private seller, there’s always the chance that the odometer has been tampered with to lower the mileage and make the car more attractive to potential buyers. Cross-check the mileage on the car with the mileage on the used car history report to ensure everything lines up. If it doesn’t, then walk away!

3) Previous owners 

How many previous owners has the vehicle had before it found its way to you? The higher the number, the more probability of issues. Usually, when a car swaps hands often it’s less likely to have been routinely serviced and more likely to have been in an accident or two. That’s why you want to carefully inspect the CarFax report to look for information about accidents and auto service.

4) Car accidents and repairs 

You always want to know if a vehicle has been in an accident – it can lower the resale value as well as lead to residual auto repairs that need to be made (by you). However, not all owners will tell you about accidents the car has been in. Check the report and also be on the lookout for any major auto repairs that could be the result of an accident or may have warranties attached to them – you’ll want copies of the warranties.

Request your CarFax today at Toyota of Orlando

Ready to shop? Come on down to Toyota of Orlando – we’re open seven days a week at 3575 Vineland Road, just off I-4 near the Millenia Mall!

Posted in Used Cars | No Comments »

When it comes to car care, what goes on under the hood is a mystery to some people. That’s why it’s important to bring your ride in for routine car maintenance at our Orlando auto service center and let the professionals take care of it. However, it never hurts to have knowledge on your side so you can make educated decisions about what’s best for your ride. Toyota of Orlando is busting the top five car maintenance myths for you so you can feel more confident about your ownership!

Myth #1: You need to schedule an oil change every 3,000 miles. 

False. With new oils and new technology, your car can actually run longer than 3,000 miles. In fact, some synthetic oils can last up to 10,000 miles before needing a change. Here’s the caveat, though – if you’re using traditional motor oil, you very well could need an oil change ever 3,000 – 5,000 miles. Let our Orlando Toyota service techs point you in the right direction depending on your car’s performance, the type of oil you use, and the general condition of your motor.

Myth #2: Premium fuel is better for your car. 

False. If your car requires premium fuel, then yes, you should absolutely use it. You can find this information in your owner’s manual. However, if your car is fine with regular unleaded then that’s what you should put in the gas tank. Using premium won’t improve your car’s performance or make the engine function any more efficiently; it’ll really just put a bigger hole in your wallet. Stick to what your car needs!

Myth #3: You can wash your car with any type of soap. 

False. Did you know that using soaps like dish soap or laundry detergent can actually damage your car’s paint over time? They strip the wax finish off because the chemicals in them are harsh. Instead, use a specially-formulated soap for your car, which can get things nice and clean without stripping the protective wax off. Our Orlando auto parts techs can help you pick the one that best fits your needs and your budget.

Myth #4: You need to warm your car up before you hit the road. 

False. A lot of people actually believe this one, but it’s just not true. It’s better to hit the road without idling to “warm things up” because driving will actually warm your car up better than just sitting there, even when it’s cold out. You may want to let your car get a few miles on the odometer before gunning it or taking to the highway, but you don’t need to wait for your car to warm up in the morning before you take off.

Myth #5: Once you jump your car battery, you don’t need to replace it. 

False – sometimes. For the most part, if your car battery needs a jump then there’s an issue that’s preventing it from doing its job… and it most likely needs to be replaced. In fact, most of the time when you jump your car it’s wisest to go straight to a car maintenance center to have the voltage checked and the battery replaced. If you stop somewhere and turn your car off, chances are you’ll have to have it jumped again. Save yourself the hassle!

Need to schedule Orlando car maintenance today? Call (407) 298-0001!

Posted in Toyota Service | No Comments »

Driving can be a hassle, even when you’re behind the wheel of a reliable new Toyota. We get it! Orlando is jam-packed with traffic, it’s hot most of the year, and realistically, most of us would rather be sitting on the beach or parked in front of Netflix instead of battling I-4. However, Toyota of Orlando is here to make the situation a little more tolerable. Check out these 10 driving hacks to make your day-to-day commute that much easier!

Use these driving hacks to simplify your commute

#1: Drop a pin where you park your car. There’s nothing more annoying than not being able to remember where you parked, especially when it’s hot and you’re in a rush. When you park your Orlando Toyota, drop a pin on your iPhone and you’ll have no trouble finding your way back to it.

#2: Get the hot air out of your ride fast. Sliding into a stifling hot car after a long day of work is miserable. Get the hot air out fast – use this driving hack! Simply unroll the passenger side front window and then open and close your driver’s side door repeatedly – it’ll push the hot air out the window.

#3: Know what exit sign positions mean. Unsure as to which side of the highway your exit is on? Just look at the signs. If the sign is on the right, the exit is on the right. If it’s on the left, the exit is on the left.

#4: Learn how to gauge unfamiliar mechanics. If you get stuck with a roadside emergency and can’t make it to Toyota of Orlando, chances are you’ll be visiting a mechanic you’re unfamiliar with. Make sure they aren’t scamming you – choose a part of your car that you know is in good condition and ask them if there’s anything wrong with it.

#5: Stay in your lane. When you’re stuck in a traffic jam, just stay in your lane (as frustrating as it may be). Studies show that constantly changing lanes in a traffic jam won’t really get you anywhere faster.

#6: Keep your hands cool. Sick of burning your hands on a hot steering wheel every afternoon? Turn your wheel 180 degrees after you park so only the bottom gets heated by the sun – the top will be nice and cool when you turn it back.

#7: Download the right apps. Phone apps can be a lifesaver (as long as you don’t use them WHILE you’re driving). We suggest apps like Waze, which can serve as navigation and also alert you to accidents, as well as music and podcast apps for entertainment, weather apps to check the weather on your route, and a gas station finder app for convenience.

#8: Clean up after your four-legged friends. This driving hack is Mr. Toyota approved! Use a rubber squeegee to quickly and efficiently get pet hair off your seats (instead of taking the time to vacuum) so you’re not sneezing your way to work.

Shop driving hack supplies at Toyota of Orlando!

Want more tips or need to shop for supplies to make your drive time simple and efficient? Call Toyota of Orlando today – we’re open seven days a week at (407) 298-4500.

Posted in Toyota of Orlando's Tips | No Comments »

When it comes to oil changes, most people just know that they need to schedule one when the oil light comes on or when their mechanic sends them a reminder. However, did you know that you can actually choose the type of oil that goes under the hood to best suit your needs and your budget? There are four main types of motor oil available and Toyota of Orlando is here to explain each one of them. That way, you can decide which is best for your car next time you need to schedule an Orlando oil change.

What type of motor oil is best for your car?

Type 1: Conventional 

Conventional or regular motor oil used to be the most common type used in cars. It’s also the cheapest. However, it works best for drivers who have vehicles with simple engine systems and routine driving styles. Additionally, this type of oil has a shorter lifespan than synthetic. So while it may save you money in the short run, synthetic may save you more money overall. With this type of oil, you’ll typically need an oil change every 3,000 to 5,000 miles.

Type 2: Synthetic 

Synthetic oil is what our Orlando Toyota service techs recommend to most customers. While its price tag is a bit higher than conventional, it lasts much, much longer. In some cases, it can last up to 10,000 miles without a problem! This type of oil is chemically engineered (as opposed to being made from natural fossil fuels) and thus provides a cleaner performance with less residue. It also handles cold and hot weather extremes better and in some cases, can even improve your car’s performance overall.

Type 3: Synthetic Blend

This is exactly what it sounds like – a blend of synthetic and conventional motor oils. It’s less costly than a full synthetic oil but still gives you a longer life and cleaner performance with less buildup than a conventional oil. It’s sort of the happy medium if you can’t choose between the two oils mentioned above and is great for towing and hauling in addition to withstanding cold weather well.

Type 4: High Mileage 

High mileage motor oil is specifically designed for older cars that have a lot of miles on them – specifically, over 75,000 miles. It has a different viscosity so it helps older cars perform better; it prevents oil leaks, helps to keep engine compression where it should be, and also prevents oil burnoff. If you drive a late-model car or have a newer one with lots of miles, then this is the perfect choice for you.

Schedule your quick oil change at Toyota of Orlando

Ready to schedule an Orlando oil change? Don’t put off this very important service. Call us today at (407) 298-0001 or swing by 3575 Vineland Road, just off I-4 near the Millenia Mall. We’re open seven days a week for your convenience and have great auto service specials waiting to save you money.

Posted in Toyota Service | No Comments »