Toyota is renowned on a global scale for its innovation in the world of hybrid cars. The Toyota Prius, after all, is the hybrid that started it all. At Toyota of Orlando, we’re proud to offer multiple hybrid solutions to our customers who want to make the world a greener place every time they get behind the wheel. We have a pretty big lineup spanning both cars and SUVs that embrace a hybrid engineering system designed to cut down on emissions and boost fuel efficiency, but we’ve got news – things are about to get even better.

2021 brings Toyota Hybrid System II to Toyota of Orlando

As we’re sure you’ve heard, 2021 will both bring back the once-retired Toyota Venza and introduce an all-new Toyota Sienna to the market. These cars will be boasting more than just makeovers, though – both of them will also be showcasing a brand-new Toyota hybrid engineering system under the hood. We’ve got the scoop on how it differs from what’s currently in our Toyota hybrid cars so you can start considering whether or not you want to put one of these new and improved vehicles in your driveway.

Before we walk about the future, however, let’s talk about the present. As you know, Toyota of Orlando offers a wide lineup of Toyota hybrid cars. These cars use a full hybrid system; this means that the electric motor and internal combustion work together to power your hybrid car, but can also work independently to power your vehicle (i.e., you can drive on electric motor power alone). Other makes and models don’t always use this full hybrid system, relying on other types like a parallel or series system (neither of which is as efficient as a full hybrid system).

This type of Toyota hybrid engineering system has quite a few benefits. For starters, it greatly improves fuel efficiency, boosting it much higher than that of an Orlando Toyota that solely uses an internal combustion engine. Additionally, these eco-friendly cars cut down on emissions and use fewer natural resources, so you can rest easy that you’re making the world a greener place.

What will this new Toyota hybrid system have to offer?

So, what’s in store for you when the 2021 Toyota Venza and Toyota Sienna arrive at Toyota of Orlando? Here’s how the new Toyota hybrid engineering system will differ from the existing one:

• It’s more efficient and performance-driven than ever before thanks to new high-speed combustion technology
• It’s showcasing new nickel-metal hydride and lithium-ion batteries that are smaller and lighter than ever before, which means they can easily and comfortably be installed under the backseats (giving you more passenger and cargo space)
• It has a new power control unit that’s smaller and lighter, and it’s also been redesigned to lower the electrical loss by up to 10%
• The motor has a new rolling-coil structure with fewer wires and a newly developed magnetic steel; a new multi-axis system reduces the size and weight of the system in itself, which means your car will weigh less overall (and you’ll get even better fuel efficiency).

We can’t wait to see it in action at Toyota of Orlando! If you have questions or want to test drive one of our Orlando Toyota hybrids, call us. We’re open seven days a week at (407) 298-4500!

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Do you like to turn heads when you hit the road? If you’re the type of driver who wants a vehicle that’s anything but ordinary, you’re in luck – Toyota is officially adding two more models to its limited-time Nightshade Edition lineup. As of 2021, both the Orlando Toyota Avalon and Toyota C-HR will be available in this special edition model and will sport a darker, edgier look than any other models in the family.

Brand-new Nightshade Editions coming soon

We don’t have the exact details on these new Nightshade Edition Toyota models yet – it’s still up in the air since 2021 is a little ways off. We do know, however, that blacked-out accessory pieces are definitely in the picture and that the Avalon XSE is going to be retired after next year, so the Nightshade Edition might take its place for a while.

We can assume the general look and feel of these new Toyotas because there are other models up for grabs already. As of right now, you can find these edgy editions of the Toyota Tacoma, Tundra, Sequoia, Corolla, Corolla Hatchback, Highlander, and Camry. Let’s take a closer look at one of them so you can start setting expectations for the up-and-coming 2021 Toyota Avalon and Toyota C-HR.

What’s up with the 2020 Toyota Corolla Nightshade Edition?

If you haven’t had a chance to get your hands on the Orlando Toyota Corolla Nightshade Edition, it’s worth it to keep trying. Here are the main features this special model is showcasing:

• This model is based on the already sporty SE trim of this Orlando Toyota, giving it an automatic edge when compared to other trim-levels.
• It’s available on both the Corolla and Corolla Hatchback, giving you plenty of edgy options.
• It will showcase blacked-out exterior features including the door handles, exterior mirror caps, and lower fascias. Additionally, the Orlando Toyota Corolla Hatchback offers a blacked-out roof for serious contrast to the paint.
• This special edition vehicle will also feature black 18″ alloy wheels.
• It’s available in various special paint colors. The sedan model comes in white, silver, or black, while the hatchback comes in white, bronze, red, blue, or silver.
• Both models will be Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatible.

And it’s been reported that Toyota will have 10 Nightshade Edition models on the market (or at least in the works) by the end of this year.

And you can’t go wrong with both the Toyota Avalon and Toyota C-HR.  The Orlando Toyota Avalon is decked out with top technology and offers a sleek and sporty but luxurious way to get around town – no stuffy luxury car vibes here. The Toyota C-HR, on the other hand, is already edgy and exciting with its diamond-inspired looks and sporty handling. Adding the new nightshade elements to these models only takes them to a whole new level in terms of appearance.

Want more details? Call us today – Toyota of Orlando is open seven days a week at (407) 298-4500. You can also stop by and see us at 3575 Vineland Road!

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Are you trying to get your ride back into like-new condition but on a budget when it comes to car detailing supplies? We’re here to help! We offer affordable car supplies at our Orlando Toyota parts store, but we’re also here to share budget-friendly car cleaning hacks to get your ride into the best shape possible without having to break the bank. Check it out!

Easy hacks for car cleaning

Washing your car

We know that when you’re on a budget, the last thing you want to spend money on is car cleaning supplies like expensive auto soap. However, resist the temptation to use regular dish soap on your vehicle. The harsh chemicals in it can actually do more harm than good to your paint, so it’s best to instead mix some hair conditioner with water if you’re washing your car on the cheap. It’ll actually help your car repel water and give it a nice, shiny finish. Win-win!

Cleaning the interior

Sprays formulated for the interior of your car are nice, but not absolutely necessary to get things clean. A little bit of olive oil on a soft cloth can work wonders for plastics, vinyl, and SofTex inside the car. If you have fabric seats that you want to freshen up, you can use regular soap, water, and a sponge – just scrub, rinse with clean water, and let dry. If there’s a particularly tough stain in your car’s upholstery or carpet, our Orlando Toyota car care experts recommend using club soda or a baking soda/water mixture (1/4 cup baking soda and one cup warm water) to scrub it out.

Cleaning the windows 

It’s essential to clean your windows and windshield so you have a clear field of vision at all times. However, using ammonia-based cleaners like Windex can damage the glass and your tint job that you shelled out hard-earned bucks for. Instead, use white vinegar mixed with water as a cleaner, and use crumbled newspapers instead of paper towels (newspaper is stronger and doesn’t leave those little weird white things all over the window as you clean).

Removing stuck-on debris from the exterior

Bird poop and sap are notoriously hard to get off of car paint, but it’s an essential part of car cleaning if you want to avoid paint damage in the long run. Our Orlando auto service techs recommend spraying a little WD40 on the spot to remove the offending debris – the grease will help loosen it up so you can wipe it away.

Getting rid of bad smells

Does the interior of your Orlando Toyota smell like it’s seen better days? Get rid of offensive, lingering odors with baking soda. You can sprinkle it on the seats and carper, let it sit for a few hours, and then vacuum out. A small bag of charcoal under one of the seats is also a great odor absorber.

Let Toyota of Orlando help you get your car looking like-new again

Have more questions about budget-friendly car cleaning hacks? Call us today – Toyota of Orlando is open seven days a week at (407) 298-0001.

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Toyota has quite the heritage when it comes to sports cars with options like the Toyota Celica, Toyota Supra, Toyota 86, and a few other select models. And they’ve been busy offering new options to the market, too, with the introduction of the Toyota 86 (formerly known as the Scion FR-S) and the resurrection of the Toyota Supra. Additionally, the sporty Toyota Corolla hot hatch will also be hitting the market at some point in the near future, giving drivers who want a bit of an edge in their drive time tons of solutions to choose from.

Do you remember the Toyota 2000GT?

However, that’s not all – Toyota is introducing a whole new element to their sports car game by creating new parts for the iconic Toyota 2000GT sports car. Toyota of Orlando has the scoop!

The Toyota 2000GT was a limited-production sports car (only 337 were produced) that came onto the market in 1967 and sadly, left it in 1970. This sleek two-seater sports car was a beauty and boasted rear-wheel drive, a hardtop, and Gran Turismo design elements (think flowing lines, pop-up headlights, and an extremely low stance). It was instantly popular because of its eye-catching design and exciting performance – this fan-favorite had a longitudinally-mounted 2.0L straight 6 engine under the hood and could achieve speeds of up to 135 mph. It was a manual transmission and disc brakes, which made it even more exciting to drive, and actually set several speed and endurance records at the time AND came in third place at the Fuji 100o Kilometres race in 1967. An open-top version was even created for a James Bond movie (You Only Live Twice) – does it get much cooler than that?

You’ll soon be able to buy classic car parts at Toyota of Orlando

However, all good things much come to an end and thus, the Toyota 2000GT was retired in 1970 and unfortunately, never made it back into production. However, Toyota is about to SORT OF make amends for that egregious offense – starting this year, they’ll begin to introduce parts for this classic sports car onto the market.

If you don’t already own a Toyota 2000GT, then you’re kind of out of luck (sorry, but you can come test drive a Toyota Supra or Toyota 86 at Toyota of Orlando anyway!). However, if you’re the proud owner of this iconic Toyota, then good news! A line of new spare parts (parts that are no longer available)  is currently being created and manufactured for this vehicle, with orders opening up on August 1, 2020. You’ll be able to get information about ordering parts on the TGR website and the best news? They’ll be available at Toyota of Orlando and other Toyota dealers for purchase!

Have questions? Want to test drive the new Orlando Toyota 86 or take a peek at the Toyota Supra? Need car parts for any other vehicle? We’ve got you covered on all accounts. Call Toyota of Orlando today at (407) 298-4500 or stop by and see us at 3575 Vineland Road!

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Do you routinely use your car parking brake? This small but essential part plays an important role in your car’s day-to-day life and Toyota of Orlando is here to tell you how and why. Here are 5 things you should know about your parking brake before you hit the road so you can safely and effectively put it to work when you get behind the wheel.

What you should know about your car parking brake

#1: Your car parking brake can be a pedal OR a hand brake, depending on your car’s make and model. Be sure to locate and test it during your test drive. If it’s a hand brake, it’ll be located in between the driver and passenger seats, near your gear shifter. You operate it by pulling it up until it locks into place, and you release it by pushing the button on the end and pushing it back down. If it’s a foot brake, it’ll be on the driver’s side near the accelerator and brakes. You operate it by pushing it down until it sticks, and you release it by pushing down on the pedal and then letting go to release the brake.

#2: You should NEVER drive with the parking brake engaged. If you try it, you’ll immediately notice the resistance and remember to turn it off. However, don’t try to drive with it engaged for any reason – it can cause major issues with your braking system. It can wear down your brake pads quickly AND cause temperatures to rise quickly, resulting in you wearing down the linings in your brakes.

#3: It needs to be maintained. You won’t have to do much for it – really, you can just ask our Orlando auto service techs to check it when you bring your car in for service – but it is necessary to have it routinely checked and cared for, especially if you use it a lot OR if your car has been sitting idle for a while.

#4: You should engage your parking brake BEFORE you put your car in park. Many drivers put their vehicle in park and then engage the parking brake, but this actually causes the car to rock back slightly, putting weight on the transmission. Instead, once you’re in your parking spot you should keep your right foot on the brake pedal (and leave your car running) and engage the parking brake, and THEN shift the car into park.

#5: Your car parking brake will need to be adjusted. Just like you need your car brakes serviced (replacing brake lines, resurfacing rotors, etc.) you’ll need to ensure that your car parking brake routinely serviced to replace bad lines or get rid of any corrosion that accumulates.

Service this important part at Toyota of Orlando today

Have more questions? Want to schedule car parking brake service at Toyota of Orlando? We’ve got you covered. Call Toyota of Orlando’s service center seven days a week at (407) 298-0001. You can also visit us at 3575 Vineland Road, just off I-4 across from the Millenia Mall.

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When you climb into the driver’s seat of your car and turn the key in the ignition, you’re probably used to hearing the engine roar to life from the usual spot – in front of you, under the hood. However, did you know that putting the engine in the front is not always the norm? There are actually three different types of engine placements, and our Orlando Toyota engine experts are here to explain each of them and what they mean for your drive time in detail.

How do Toyota engine placements differ?

Type #1: Front-engine 

Front-engine Toyotas are definitely the most popular type of engine placement. In this configuration, you’ll find the engine in front of the front wheels of your Orlando Toyota and accessed by lifting the hood. Here are a few quick facts about this particular type of Toyota engine placement.

• This type of placement is the most common type and offers great traction and excellent control for the typical drive time. You’ll find it on Orlando Toyotas like our Corolla, Camry, Highlander, and more.
• It’s usually paired with front-wheel drive, which helps to enhance the handling aspect. You can, however, find this configuration paired with rear-wheel drive, like in our Orlando Toyota Supra or Tundra. However, because the engine is in the front and the power is coming from the back wheels, this can cause an imbalance that may leave you more likely to spin out.

Type #2: Mid-engine 

A mid-engine car definitely isn’t as popular as a front-engine car – in fact, that last time we saw a mid-engine Toyota in the U.S. was when we had the Toyota MR2 in our lineup at Toyota of Orlando. Here’s the breakdown of this type of placement, which situates the engine in the middle of the car in between the front and rear wheels.

• This type of configuration means that you have excellent balance (all the weight is in the middle) so cornering and handling are greatly improved (that’s why it’s popular for some sports cars). This can, however, mean that spinouts are unpredictable.
• This type of configuration also means you have less interior space in your car because the engine is literally where the cabin would be. These cars are typically just two-seaters with a front driver and passenger seat.

Type #3: Rear-engine 

A rear-engine car is pretty much a rarity at this point in time – you almost never see them. In this instance, the engine is in the back of the car where the trunk is usually located. Here are some quick facts:

• Most vehicles with this type of engine placement use rear-wheel drive. This translates to much higher acceleration than you’d expect.
• This high acceleration can also cause you to oversteer, and these types of vehicles can be difficult to control and drive in general.

Call Toyota of Orlando with engine questions today!

Have questions or want to test drive one of our Orlando Toyotas? Call us today! You can reach us seven days a week at (407) 298-4500.

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The Orlando Toyota Corolla is a pretty sporty-looking sedan; it always has been. It’s also great when it comes to performance – it’s quick, fun to drive, and fuel-efficient so you save money every time you hit the gas pump. However, Toyota is taking this best-seller to a brand new level with the introduction of the 2021 Toyota Corolla Apex Edition. This limited-edition Toyota will offer not only an even sportier design but also an upgraded performance that will make your drive time more exciting than ever before. Toyota of Orlando has the details.

What will the 2021 Toyota Corolla Apex Edition offer?

We’ll start with the basics – this special edition Toyota will only be available on the SE and XSE grades. It’ll start arriving at dealerships this fall, and only 6,000 will be produced so you better get your hands on one quick if you want to put it in the driveway. The SE will start at $23,230 and the XSE will start at $26,680.

Let’s talk about performance changes next. We already know that the original Toyota Corolla is fuel-efficient and sporty when it comes to hitting the road. Here’s what’s new on the limited Apex Edition:

• Both the SE and XSE grades of this limited-edition Orlando Toyota Corolla will have a 2.0L 4-cylinder under the hood that offers 169 horsepower and 151 lb-ft of torque for a little get-up-and-go.
• The SE model will have a six-speed manual gearbox, while the XSE will stick with the automatic CVT transmission. Only 120 manual models will be available out of the 6,000 total models produced.
• A new track-tuned suspension system has been introduced with new coil springs that lower the car by .6 inches. There are also increased spring rates, new shock absorbers with built-in internal rebound springs, and new jounce jumpers. This results in superior handling, stability, and steering response, as well as improved comfort for driver and passengers alike, as well as enhanced roll stiffness (which means way better cornering).
• This new Toyota also showcases revised Electric Power Steering and a Catback exhaust system.

Now let’s talk looks. The design of the 2021 Toyota Corolla Apex Edition has been enhanced to offer upgrades like:

• 18″ gloss black cast-aluminum wheels
• LED exterior lighting and smoked LED taillights
• Black mirror caps
• A redesigned front fascia and front spoiler
• A new body kit with side moldings and a rear diffuser, as well as new fog light covers (all of which help cut wind resistance)
• A 3.5″ stainless steel exhaust tip

And an interior decked out with premium SofTex and heated front seats.

Get more info on this special edition from Toyota of Orlando

As noted, this special-edition Toyota Corolla will be arriving at Toyota of Orlando this fall. We’ll be sure to keep you posted as to when it gets here, and remember – only 6,000 total are being produced, so don’t delay in getting behind the wheel! Call us today for more info at (407) 298-4500 ot stop by and chat with us. We’re open seven days a week at 3575 Vineland Road, just off I-4 near the Millenia Mall.

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Your car is a big investment – huge, really. For some people, it’s the next biggest investment they’ll make next to their home. That’s why it’s critical to maintain and service your vehicle on a routine basis and take good care of it. Not only will it get you where you need to go for a long time, but it’ll also retain its value and protect your investment. Routine car care is pretty simple to complete (especially if you let our Orlando auto service techs get you on a schedule and send you reminders), but you COULD be engaging in bad car care habits that can cost you money down the road. Here are some of the most common bad habits we see and why you should break them!

Don’t make these 5 car care mistakes

Bad habit #1: Trying to run on empty. 

Are you in the bad car care habit of letting your gas tank run dry pretty often? If you’re the type of person stops at the pump often to put in a few dollars at a time, stop. Keeping your tank full has benefits – like preserving your fuel pump and keeping it running cooler, which can save you big time repair costs. Filling your tank completely can also enhance your fuel efficiency because you’re making fewer trips to the gas station.

Bad habit #2: Shifting from reverse to drive too quickly. 

Some drivers get into the bad habit of shifting from reverse into drive too quickly, and this is bad for your transmission. You should wait until your car has come to a complete stop and THEN shift from reverse into drive, and vice versa.

Bad habit #3: Keeping the trunk full. 

Are you guilty of keeping all of your junk in the trunk? It’s time to clear things out. Keeping too much stuff in your trunk weighs your car down, which in turn can cause your fuel efficiency to take a dip. Additionally, too much weight in the back of your car can damage your suspension and brakes over time because your vehicle has to work harder to support the weight and bring you to a safe stop.  Make cleaning out your trunk part of your routine car care.

Bad habit #4: Hitting the gas too hard. 

If you have a tendency to put the pedal to the metal, you may want to curb it. Not only does this burn excessive amounts of fuel (and in turn, bring down your fuel efficiency and make you spend more on gas), it also puts your drivetrain through the wringer. It also makes your brakes work harder to bring you to a safe stop, which means more frequent brake pads replacement and brake service.

Bad habit #5: Not using your parking brake consistently. 

Most people think you only need to use your parking brake if you’re going to be parked on a hill. This is definitely not the case; using your parking brake every time you park can actually help save your brakes by better distributing the weight in your car.

Toyota of Orlando can help you build better car care habits

Have questions or need car care help? Call Toyota of Orlando today at (407) 298-0001.

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If you could get the chance to get behind the wheel of the Toyota MR2 again – albeit a slightly different iteration – would you take it? Well, you may get the opportunity soon(ish). Rumor has it that the much-loved Toyota MR2 may be making its way back onto the market in the upcoming decade and Toyota of Orlando is here to share the speculation. Buckle up – you may just get your shot to climb into the driver’s seat of this sporty two-seater after all.

Will this much-loved Toyota sports car make its way back to Orlando?

According to rumors swirling in the automotive world, the Toyota MR2 could be making its way back to Orlando in 2024. However, it’ll be a different type of vehicle – it’s expected that given Toyota’s push toward greener cars, it could be revived as a hybrid car or even an all-electric model. Here’s what’s been speculated so far:

• The next Toyota MR2 would be a ways out if it’s coming back to the market – we likely wouldn’t see it even revealed until 2023 or 2024.
• Akio Toyoda – the president of Toyota Motor Corporation – has spoken numerous times of his desire to have “three brothers” in the lineup (since there were three main sports cars in the 1980s). We’ve gotten the Orlando Toyota Supra back and the Toyota 86 is on the market (and could be in the place of the Toyota Celica), so it only makes sense that the Toyota MR2 is the next addition.
• It’s likely that some collaboration with another automaker will take place. Remember, both the Orlando Toyota Supra and Toyota 86 were collabs (with BMW and Subaru, respectively).
• There’s a high probability that in its efforts to make its lineup greener, Toyota would try to make the mid-engine sports car Toyota MR2 either hybrid or electric.

And that’s all we really can say for now… but we promise that the minute more information comes to light, we’ll share it!

The Toyota MR2: past and present

For now, we’ll give you a quick refresher on the basics of the Toyota MR2 and its history.

• The Toyota MR2 is a mid-engine, rear-wheel-drive sports car that has two seats – a driver’s seat and front passenger’s seat.
• It was on the market from 1994 – 2007 and spanned three generations of iterations.
• Although it was a sports car, it was economical and compact, not to mention fun to drive with its mid-engine placement.
• It had fully-independent MacPherson strut front and rear suspensions and showcased an inline-four engine that was transverse-mounted.
• The designers wanted to create a car that was fuel-efficient and fun, which evolved into this popular sports car.
• Some models were convertibles while others were traditional hard tops

We’ll keep you posted as more details come to fruition about this incredible news, but in the meantime, why not check out our current lineup of sports cars? You can see both the Toyota 86 and Toyota Supra in person today at Toyota of Orlando at 3575 Vineland Road, just off I-4 across from the Millenia Mall.

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If you’re someone who likes to have a unique spin on every aspect of their life, then Toyota is definitely the brand for you. Sure, we’ve got our fair share of economical mass production cars like the Toyota Corolla and Toyota Camry. However, did you know that we’ve also got a solid catalog of special edition models that are limited-production standouts? Today we’re giving you a catalog of the current special edition models available at our Orlando Toyota dealership so you can get an idea of the unique options waiting for you to slide into the driver’s seat.

Nightshade Special Editions

Go dark in this new limited-edition line up of special models. The Nightshade Edition is available in the Orlando Toyota Camry, Avalon, Corolla Hatchback, Corolla, 4Runner, and Sienna so there’s an option for everyone whether you want a sleek and sporty hatchback or a spacious family vehicle. All models include special blacked-out appearance enhancements that add a serious edge no matter which one you choose. Rumor has it that the Orlando Toyota C-HR will also be joining the lineup this year if you’re a fan of the cool crossover.

Hakone Edition 

If you like the Toyota 86 but want a model that stands out from the rest, consider the Hakone Edition. This limited-production model sports an eye-catching and exclusive green paint on the exterior and a sleek brown leather interior as well as a few other aesthetic upgrades that make it one of a kind.

Trail Editions 

If taking things off the pavement is your kind of drive time, then you’ll be excited to hear that Trail Editions of three popular Toyotas are coming to Toyota of Orlando at some point this summer. Not only do they have aesthetic upgrades, but these special limited-edition models will also showcase performance enhancements to make them off-road ready. You’ll find this special model available in the Toyota Tacoma, 4Runner, and Tundra lineups for a limited time.

Launch Edition

As if the revival of the iconic Toyota Supra wasn’t enough, Toyota decided to throw in a special edition model called the Launch Edition. This model will sport a new duckbill spoiler in the back, a brand-new paint color called Refraction, and exclusively designed wheels.

Anniversary Edition

Trying to go green AND stand out? Check out the special Anniversary Edition of the 2020 Toyota Prius! This limited-edition model celebrates 20 years of hybrid ingenuity and the life of the iconic Toyota Prius and showcases blacked-out aesthetic elements inside and out for a seriously sleek look (and the green performance you know and love).

Heritage Edition

The Toyota Land Cruiser is renowned all over the world for its ready-for-anything performance capabilities, and the Heritage Edition celebrates that. This special limited-run model takes it back to basics and makes your ride more off-road-ready with exclusive aluminum wheels, a Yakima roof basket, and other special enhancements.

Have questions about any of the special edition Orlando Toyotas OR any of our other models? Call us! Toyota of Orlando is open seven days a week at (407) 298-4500.

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