While the Orlando Toyota Land Cruiser is a pretty amazing vehicle, you can’t deny that it’s been a while since it was updated in terms of appearance. While it gets upgrades for technology every single year as well as slight appearance modifications, it hasn’t been redesigned for quite some time. That COULD be about to change – and Toyota of Orlando has the scoop on what the 2020 Toyota Land Cruiser may be bringing to our dealership when it’s released.

What will the 2020 Toyota Land Cruiser bring to the table?

If a new Toyota Land Cruiser is being unveiled, it might make its big debut at the Tokyo Auto Show in November – it’s pure speculation up until that point (unless Toyota makes a formal announcement). Why would it be such a big deal? Well, the current model – the 200 series – has been around since 2006. As noted, it’s gotten some refreshes and upgrades, but essentially it’s the same model. If a new 300 series were to hit the market, it would certainly bring big changes to this polished SUV.

We don’t know much so far – like we said, it’s a lot of hope and speculation – but we do know that the new model would likely retain the body-on-frame construction for maximum comfort, as well as possibly swap out the current V8 engine for a twin-turbo 3.5L V6 engine that’s currently found in the Lexus LS 500. Other than that, it’s up in the air, but all signs are pointing to a major redesign on the horizon.

See this Orlando Toyota SUV in person today

But what makes the Orlando Toyota Land Cruiser such a much-loved option that one model can stretch almost 14 years without significant upgrades? Here are some of the highlights the current model has to offer:

• Off-road capabilities like multi-terrain select, CRAWL Control, four-wheel drive, and Active Traction Control as well as a Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System and towing capabilities of up to 8,100 lbs.
• A sleek interior decked out with perforated leather trim and cool wood-grain accent trim
• Seating for up to 8 with an additional 16.1 cubic feet of cargo space. Plus, the second and third row seats fold flat to give you plenty of space if you need it.
• An Entune Premium JBL Audio System  with a 9″ touchscreen, Bluetooth wireless streaming, HD Radio, Sirius XM Satellite Radio, and 14 JBL speakers
• A rear-seat DVD entertainment system with two individual 11.6″ screens and wireless headphones
• The Smart Key System on all doors and a Push Button Start
• Toyota Safety Sense P, the Star Safety System, and Safety Connect Services
• A four-zone automatic climate control system with pollen filtration mode
• A multi-terrain monitor with front, side, or rear views

And so much more.

Whether you wait for the 2020 model or decide to drive one home today, Toyota of Orlando can get you behind the wheel! Come check out the new Toyota Land Cruiser in person at 3575 Vineland Road, just off I-4 near the Millenia Mall. You can also call us for info and to set up an appointment at (407) 298-4500.

 

 

 

 

 

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When most people hear “exhaust system“, they typically just think of the tailpipes that stick out from under the back of their car. While they’re not totally wrong, there’s a lot more to the system than just the pipes in the back. Your exhaust system is integral to your car’s performance and also to preserving our planet. That’s why it’s important to not only maintain and repair it, but also to monitor it for any possible issues so you can take care of them as soon as possible. Check out some of the most common issues you’ll see with this important system and how to spot them below.

Troubleshoot your car’s exhaust system

Issue #1: Bad fuel efficiency 

Have you noticed your ride’s fuel efficiency suddenly dropping? This can be caused by an issue with the exhaust – if you’re losing power and acceleration, your car will try to overcompensate for it and end up using more gas. Bring it to Toyota of Orlando for an inspection ASAP.

Issue #2: A tailpipe that’s loose, rattling, or noticeably hanging down 

Can you actually see your car’s tailpipe hanging lower than it should, or do you hear it rattling when your ride is in motion? This can cause major damage to the rest of the system so don’t ignore it – let our techs reattach it properly so it can do its job.

Issue #3: Noises coming from the engine 

Do you hear strange hissing or tapping noises coming from under the hood? This can signify a leak in your car’s exhaust system – usually having to do with the manifold gasket. It’s not a quick fix you can take care of at home, so visit Toyota of Orlando to get it handled by our experts.

Issue #4: Gas odor inside the car’s cabin 

Do you keep getting whiffs of gasoline inside the cabin of your ride? Not only is this extremely bad for your health, but it also signifies that you have a major leak somewhere in your system. Do not delay bringing your car in – a gasoline leak can lead to carbon monoxide poisoning and be fatal for you and your passengers.

Issue #5: A burning smell in the engine bay

Your car’s exhaust system stretches all the way from your engine through the undercarriage to the tailpipes – that’s a lot of ground to cover. If you have an issue with the gaskets in the system, exhaust fumes can build up and actually start to burn any plastic wiring components. This leads to a burning smell and even possible smoke down the road. Get it fixed right away!

Issue #6: Reduced acceleration and power 

Does it feel like your car is working overtime to get you where you need to go? If you notice that you have to push harder to get it to accelerate at a normal rate or that it loses power, it’s time for a service appointment to get to the bottom of things.

Schedule Orlando auto service today

Think you need Orlando auto service to get your exhaust system in order? Call us today to schedule at (407) 298-0001.

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School is back in session here in Orlando, which means traffic has definitely picked up and school zones are up and running again. While some drivers may think that all they have to do while driving in a school zone is slow down for a minute or two, there’s actually a good deal more to it than that. Check out our Orlando Toyota tips for safely driving in a school zone whether you’re headed back to class or not.

7 tips for taking on driving in school zones

#1: Slow down and anticipate lower speeds: School zones have lower speed limits to up the safety factor. You should slow down to the speed indicated on the road signs and also be sure to factor these lower speeds into the time you allow for your daily commute so you’re not late.

#2: Do away with all distracted driving. Put away your phone, stop fiddling with the radio, and save the breakfast for your desk. When driving in a school zone, you should be totally focused on the road and what’s going on around your Orlando Toyota. There are a lot of pedestrians, cars, and bicycles to watch out for.

#3: Be prepared to stop suddenly. With kids crossing the streets, bicycles making their way to class, and drivers pulling into the dropoff loop, you should be ready to come to a sudden stop without any notice… which is why we said to get rid of the distractions.

#4: Watch for pedestrians and crossing guards. School zones are very pedestrian heavy between students and crossing guards. Be on the lookout for them – scan the road and the sidewalks and look both ways before pulling through a stop sign to ensure no one is in the crosswalk. Be sure you always yield!

#5: Watch road signs. Pay close attention to the road signs so you know where school zones start and end and the speed and other rules you should abide by when driving in them.

Learn the rules of the road with Toyota of Orlando before you get behind the wheel

#6: Don’t pass the school bus. Don’t pass the bus in a school zone! They’re likely going the speed that you should be going and since they’re so large, it’s hard to see around them and anticipate other cars, bicyclists, and pedestrians. Plus, they’ll probably be stopping at the school for dropoff anyway. Similarly, don’t pass a stopped car on the road – see what’s going on first. They could be unloading passengers.

#7: Don’t block the crosswalks. Don’t block the crosswalks when driving in a school zone (or anytime, really) if you find yourself coming to a stop. Crosswalks are the safe way for kids to cross the street and get to campus.

And keep in mind that traffic WILL be heavier during back to school, especially as everyone gets back into the swing of things. Leave yourself extra time so you don’t feel the need to speed or drive aggressively to make it to your destination on time.

Want more back to school safety tips for driving in school zones? Call Toyota of Orlando today! We’re happy to help and we’re open seven days a week at (407) 298-4500.

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The weekend is here! As usual, the weather will be unpredictable – we may be called the Sunshine State, but Florida definitely gets its fair share of rain, especially in the summer. You can plan for the beach or the parks, but it’s always good to have a backup plan in case storm clouds start to gather. Toyota of Orlando has gathered a little list of contingencies for you – check it out!

#1: Orlando Science Center: The Orlando Science Center is great for kids and adults alike (and you can feel good that you’re doing something entertaining AND educational). You’ll find four stories of permanent exhibits about animals, energy, space, and more. There’s also an IMAX theatre, as well as traveling exhibits that stick around for a few months and then swap out.

#2: Dave and Buster’s: Dave and Buster’s is a sports fan’s dream. You can catch sports games on huge screen TVs, order food, have a few brews (just remember to find a DD or an Uber home), and soak up the atmosphere. If you’re not into watching sports, amuse yourself by playing the dozens of arcade games, shuffleboard, pool, or basketball located there. (Save your tickets and get prizes, too!)

#3: Bowling: Hit the bowling alley this weekend – you’ve got tons of options spread throughout the city of Orlando. Some of our favorites include Splitsville Luxury Lanes in Disney Springs and King’s Dining and Entertainment on I-Drive. Both serve great food as well as cocktails and whether you’re a novice bowler or a pro, you’ll love the atmosphere at both alleys.

#4: SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium: This beautiful aquarium is located on I-Drive so if it’s rainy, you can hole up inside and wander the interactive exhibits (there’s even a playground for the kiddos). If it’s sunny, take your time in the aquarium and then head out to I-Drive to explore the restaurants and other attractions, like Madame Tussaud’s.

#5: K1 Speed: Need a little thrill in your weekend but worried rain might throw a wrench into things? Check out K1 speed! This indoor go-kart track will let you get your adrenaline rush, and you can also relax in one of the spacious lounges, check out the racing memorabilia on display, or grab a snack from the snack bar. Who cares about the rain?

#6: Monkey Joes: Looking for a way to get your little ones to expend some energy when the weather isn’t conducive to the park or playground? Head to one of the Monkey Joes locations here in Orlando, where they can run around on the huge indoor bounce house playgrounds and you can relax in the cafe. There’s even an arcade for slightly older kids.

Rain or shine, you’ve got the weekend covered… and don’t forget that we’re open no matter the weather outside! Toyota of Orlando is conveniently located just off I-4 near the Millenia Mall at 3575 Vineland Road.

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Are you a fan of the Toyota FJ Cruiser? This much-loved Orlando Toyota SUV had quite the run – it was introduced into the market back in 2003 and was a popular option until it was discontinued by Toyota in 2014. Off-roaders and commuters alike loved it for its versatility, its reliable and durable performance, and its unique style (it was a throwback to the original FJ40). If you miss this fan favorite, then you’re in luck… it’s rumored that a new model that’s similar MAY be coming to fruition in Japan in the year 2020!

 

What is the Toyota TJ Cruiser?

Back in 2017, the Toyota TJ Cruiser was teased as a concept car at the Tokyo Motor Show. As we all know, concepts sometimes lead to nothing – sometimes, they’re just cool ideas but never make it onto the production line. Not with the Toyota TJ Cruiser. This part-SUV, part-minivan solution is supposedly hitting the market overseas in 2020, and Toyota of Orlando has the scoop on what it’ll offer when it arrives.

The exterior of the new Toyota TJ Cruiser is boxy but slightly reminiscent of the beloved Toyota FJ Cruiser. The interior seats 4, with a fold-down rear seat AND passenger seat so you can easily maximize your cargo space. However, some rumors indicate that a third-row bench seat will be an option. While the two front doors open regularly, the two back doors are sliding (like the Orlando Toyota Sienna).

What about performance? So far, we know that the engine compartment opens in the opposite direction of all other Toyotas (kind of like a semi-truck). However, instead of having a V6 engine like the FJ, the new Toyota TJ Cruiser will offer a hybrid power train (similar to what the Toyota Prius brings to the table). A 1.8L powertrain and 2.0L 4-cylinder engine will likely be under the hood, which means this futuristic model will offer incredible fuel efficiency.

When will it actually arrive in Japan, though? According to a recently published article from a Japanese vehicle journalism site, Toyota has made the decision to unveil the production model (not the concent model) at the Tokyo Motor Show this October, and then roll it out of production in December for it to be sold in 2020.

We don’t know that this car will ever make it to the US, but it WILL be built on the TNGA platform, which many production Toyotas are being built on. We’d welcome it at our Orlando Toyota dealership but we’ll have to play the waiting game and see!

Explore hybrids AND SUVs at Toyota of Orlando today!

In the interim, however, we’ve got plenty of options for you. If you’re looking for a hybrid, explore our models! You can also test drive SUVs like the Toyota 4Runner, Toyota Sequoia, Toyota Highlander, and more!

Schedule your appointment today – call (407) 298-4500, or swing by 3575 Vineland Road, just off I-4 near the Millenia Mall to see our entire inventory.

 

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Hurricane season is in full swing! It looks like Tropical Storm Dorian might take a swing at us (although you never know, it could go wide and leave us with a nice, dry Labor Day Weekend). Either way, we do live in the Sunshine State, which means we’re prone to hurricanes every year from May 1 – November 30. We figured now was a good a time as any to brush up on hurricane safety – particularly, evacuating. Check out our Orlando Toyota tips below.

6 tips to consider when evacuating a hurricane

Tip #1: Gas up in advance. There’s nothing worse than sitting at a gas station with 5 people ahead of you while the storm clouds build in the distance. And the lines only get worse as the storm gets closer – gas up now so you don’t have to worry about it before you get out town. That way you can stop once you’re clear of the hurricane’s path and top off the tank in your Orlando Toyota.

Tip #2: Know what to pack. What should you take when you evacuate a hurricane? Our Orlando Toyota dealership recommends bringing important documents, photographs, chargers, all medications you might need, cash, and supplies for your pets. You’ll also want to bring changes of clothing for everyone and snacks and drinks. Don’t forget a paper map in case you lose service, as well as a basic first aid kit.

Tip #3: Have a final destination in mind. Know where you’re going. If the hurricane is anticipated to be a bad one, you won’t be the only one getting out of town. Book a hotel or locate a shelter before you leave town so you know exactly where you’re going and have a definite place to stay when you arrive.

Tip #4: Make sure four-legged friends are welcome. When you book a hotel, choose a shelter, or ask a friend if you can crash with them, be sure that your four-legged friends are welcome, too. You should NEVER leave your pets home alone in a hurricane – no excuses.

Get your car prepped and ready at Toyota of Orlando

Tip #5: Ensure your car is ready to get out of town. Your Orlando Toyota should be gassed up in the event you decide to evacuate, but you also want to ensure it’s in good enough condition to hit the highway. Make sure you’re caught up on auto service like oil changes, coolant checks, tire inspections, and a battery inspection before you take on the open road.

Tip #6: Check traffic before you head out. Before you actually evacuate, check traffic on your route. If a lot of people are of similar mind when it comes to evacuating, then the roads could be clogged. Checking before you leave your house will give you the option of searching for alternate, less crowded routes to get out of town. It can save you both time and gasoline.

Whether you decide to stay put or head out of town this hurricane season, Toyota of Orlando has you covered. Schedule your auto service at our Toyota service department or call us for more tips at (407) 298-0001.

 

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We all know how messy the car can get in a matter of hours, especially if you’re carting kids around town. However, the mess can actually be more than just annoying to look at. Crumbs can attract bugs and other pests, things rolling around can become hazard if you’re in an accident, and spills are more likely – all of which can bring down the resale value of your ride, too. Toyota of Orlando is here with 6 simple car care tips to keep your ride decluttered all year long.

Decluttering your ride is part of car care

Tip 1: Remember that less is more. We know you want to be prepared for all eventualities, but do you REALLY need three different jackets in your car in case you get cold in the restaurant? Try to pare down what you do keep in your car so you’re prepared for everything, but don’t overdo it when it comes to supplies.

Tip 2: Go through your stuff periodically. Make it a point to go through your car supplies periodically. Has that snack expired or busted open so it’s now stale? Has your charging cord frayed so that it’s almost unusable? Is it summer now so you can stash the winter boots you have in the trunk back in your closet? Routinely organizing your belongings and swapping out what you don’t need will help your car stay clutter-free.

Tip 3: Get to know your ride. Does your Orlando Toyota have any secret storage spots that you haven’t yet discovered? Give it a search to see if you’re missing out on under-seat or under-floor storage spaces where you could store things you don’t use often.

Tip 4: Decide how and where to store things logically. Do you REALLY need to keep an extra pair of shoes in the front seat with you? Store things that you need at hand (like charging cords, insurance and registration, etc.) near you, but store less-used items a little further out of reach. For example, keep the sunscreen and extra diapers in the backseat, but stash your roadside emergency car care kit under the floor in the trunk or cargo area.

Tip 5: Have a trash can on hand. Keeping a trash can or trash bag in your car will MAJORLY cut down on clutter – you won’t be tempted to stuff your empty coffee cup into the door cupholder and leave it there for a week.

Detail your Orlando Toyota routinely to keep clutter low

Tip 6: Clean your car routinely. A big part of car care and keeping your ride decluttered and high in value is cleaning it regularly! Make sure you vacuum and wipe surfaces on a routine basis, as well as treat any stains that pop up and empty the trash.

Need to shop for cleaning supplies or want to schedule a car detailing? Call our car care experts at Toyota of Orlando today – we’re open seven days a week at (407) 298-0001!

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The automotive world is getting hyped – the Tokyo Motor Show is fast approaching, and we can’t wait to see which new Toyotas are unveiled when it finally arrives! Everyone knows that auto shows are the prime time to release new models, upcoming events and initiatives, and cool concept cars that may or may not make it into actual production. Toyota of Orlando is here with the scoop – check out what’s rumored to be unveiled at this year’s Tokyo Motor Show, taking place from October 24 – November 4!

 

See Toyota of Orlando’s take on rumored unveils this fall

The Toyota TJ Cruiser

We’ve written about the rumored Toyota TJ Cruiser before – this modernistic SUV is a part-SUV, part-minivan spinoff from the much-loved Toyota FJ Cruiser. It’s supposed that it MIGHT go into production after being officially revealed at the Tokyo Motor Show and could even make its way to the US. What do you think – do you want to see this interesting new Toyota on our lot?

The Toyota FT-4X

This new Toyota crossover has four doors AND four-wheel drive, making it a versatile option for drivers from all walks of life. It’s utilitarian with a high degree of adaptability and off-road-friendly features like low range and four-wheel drive, as well as cool add-ons like a multi-hatch that opens in two different directions and a “wet zone” where you can store muddy boots and damp wetsuits. Honestly, out of all the concepts, we think this one is the coolest and would love to see it at Toyota of Orlando eventually.

A redesigned Toyota 86 

Toyota has been talking a lot about a “performance trio”, with the all-new Toyota Supra and the Toyota 86 being the first two members. However, before they introduce the third, they want to amp up the existing Toyota 86 with a new platform and possible engineering upgrades. Additionally, it’ll still be a collaboration with Subaru so the popular BRZ will also see changes in its near future.

The GRMN Toyota Supra 

We’ve seen the new Toyota GR Supra up close and personal right here at Toyota of Orlando. However, the GRMN model is a possible new sub-model will be lighter and will include an upgraded suspension and additional new engineering features to take performance up to a new level. We look forward to seeing what it has to offer!

However, that’s not all we’ll see at the Tokyo Motor Show. The show, which takes place biennially, will showcase new and upcoming models and concepts from not only Toyota, but also other Japanese automakers like Honda and Subaru (we like to scope the competition). Plus, new technology and features are also usually unveiled, giving us a glimpse into the future of automobiles.

Test drive existing new Toyota models NOW

Stay tuned for updates – Toyota of Orlando has got you covered! We’ll be reporting back with news from the show after it takes place but in the meantime, test drive the new Toyota 86 or check out the Toyota Supra in person. We’re open seven days a week at 3575 Vineland Road, just off I-4 near the Millenia Mall.

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When it comes to your car’s transmission, how knowledgeable do you feel? Most drivers are intimidated by this very important car part – after all, there’s a lot of bells and whistles involved. In fact, most people can tell you that transmissions come in manual or automatic, but that’s about as far as their knowledge extends.

What are the most common car transmission issues?

Whether you’re an expert or a novice when it comes to this essential part, it’s important to know how to spot trouble with it. Your car transmission is absolutely essential when it comes to keeping your car up and running so you want to be able to immediately identify AND fix any issues that may arise as quickly as possible. Check out these four common issues we often see with this VIP part.

1) Burning smell: A burning smell coming from under the hood can indicate trouble – specifically, that you’re low on transmission fluid or you’re using the wrong type. However, the best way to pinpoint the issue is to let our Orlando auto service experts take a look at it so they can ensure it’s not something else going on in the engine bay.

2) Grinding or vibrating gears: Whether you’re shifting your car manually or it’s automatically doing the shifting itself, the shift should be pretty seamless. In fact, if you’re used to driving the vehicle, you may not even notice the shift between gears at all. However, if you feel your car vibrating or grinding when it shifts, you’ve definitely got transmission issues going on. Don’t ignore this telltale sign!

3) Delayed response when your car is in gear: Does it feel like your car takes a minute to respond – or maybe doesn’t respond at all – when you’re changing gears or moving into park, reverse, and drive? This delayed or missing response indicates a clear problem with this important car part. Bring it to Toyota of Orlando for service as soon as you can.

4) Leaking transmission fluid: This one should be pretty easy to spot – transmission fluid is usually reddish in color, so if you see a puddle underneath your ride it’s pretty indicative that you’ve got a leak in this system. However, a leak means that your system will soon run out and that can lead to much bigger and more expensive issues to deal with. Bring your car into our Toyota of Orlando service center so our techs can find the leak, repair it, and replace the missing fluid.

Leave the repairs to our Orlando Toyota service experts

Another thing to keep in mind is that this part is pretty complex – like we said, lots of bells and whistles. If you’re not well-versed with what’s going on under the hood, then you should avoid trying to make DIY repairs (that could potentially cost you even more money) and leave it to the experts.

Bring your ride in today! Toyota of Orlando’s service center is open seven days a week at 3575 Vineland Road, just off I-4 near the Millenia Mall. You can also call to schedule an appointment ahead of time at (407) 298-0001.

 

 

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Everyone wants to be a better defensive driver. This skill, after all, can help prevent accidents and collisions from ever happening (rather than you reacting to an accident or collision WHILE it’s happening, ending up with damage to your car and possible injury to you and your passengers). It’s an important driving habit to cultivate, but even your driving can only go so far. In order to be the best defensive driver possible, you need to make sure that your car is up for the job. Toyota of Orlando’s service center techs are here with tips – consider scheduling these four types of car maintenance to take the safety of your drive time up a notch.

What car care can make you a better defensive driver?

#1: Tire rotations and inspections. 

In order to be a good defensive driver, you need tires that you can depend on. This means they need to be filled to the proper PSI and have enough traction to sufficiently grip the road, even in slick conditions like rain, ice, or snow. You also want them to be in good physical condition so you’re not prone to a blowout. That’s why our techs at Toyota of Orlando highly recommend getting on a car care schedule for your tires. You’ll want to check the PSI regularly, as well as get tire rotations and inspections as needed.

#2: Headlight checks. 

You need your headlights to light your way, but did you know you also need them to make yourself more visible to other drivers? Your headlights should be turned on in the rain and snow as well as from dusk to dawn to make you a better defensive driver. Let our techs check them out – they can replace burnt-out bulbs and broken casings, as well as offer headlight restoration if your lights are looking a little hazy from age.

#3: Brake service. 

You ALWAYS want to be able to bring your car to a safe and efficient stop (whether you’re trying to improve your defensive driver skills or not). That’s why it’s so important to schedule routine brake service at Toyota of Orlando! Our techs will gladly inspect your entire brake system, replace worn-out brake pads, fix or replace worn rotors, add brake fluid, and take care of any other maintenance or repairs you need to keep your brakes in the best shape possible.

#4: Wiper replacement. 

Your windshield wipers are essential for ensuring you have a clear field of vision even in the worst of weather, but they do wear out. Part of being a responsible driver is ensuring that you replace them as needed. Our Orlando auto service techs are happy to inspect them for you and let you know when you’re due for a new set; then you can shop in our parts store for the right pair for your budget AND drive time needs.

Schedule your car maintenance at Toyota of Orlando

Ready to improve your defensive driver skills? Call Toyota of Orlando today at (407) 298-0001 to schedule your test drive, or stop by to talk to one of our techs at 3575 Vineland Road, just off I-4 near the Millenia Mall.

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