All posts tagged toyota

Five Of The Best Cars To Consider For Your Ultimate Road Trip

by Carsurfer Admin on 2016/08/24 in Auto Buying Tips with Comments Off on Five Of The Best Cars To Consider For Your Ultimate Road Trip

Whether you’re doing some soul searching this summer or a much awaited family vacation, the right car makes sure you get from point A to point B at the most comfortable and safest means possible. If you plan on renting or buying a new vehicle soon, read on further as we discuss the top choices for the ultimate road trip experience.

Volkswagen Golf

If you are highly concerned about gas bills adding up during your travel, a fuel-efficient car like the 2015 Volkswagen Golf SportWagen TDI is a suitable option. For a base price of $21,000, you get a 150-horsepower turbocharged engine with clean direct-injected diesel. You’ll also get your money’s worth with a 12-way power driver seat and smart air conditioning system.

Mitsubishi Outlander

If you want to travel in style but is also with company, the 2016 Mitsubishi Outlander is one of the few choices large enough to accommodate both needs. The third row can be unfolded to cater for more passengers or left flat to load cargo. The car also provides an optional back-seat entertainment system with its 9-inch monitors and an auxiliary input from which you can listen.

Toyota Rav4

A brand staple in any top list, Toyota has been offering the market a slate of high-end, innovative vehicles bred for the road. This is something embodied by the 2016 Rav4, a front-wheel drive sports utility vehicle with 6-speed AT transmission and powered by a 4-cylinder with dual VVT-i engine. It makes for a good SUV on the road because of the roomy interior for passengers and cargo, but keep in mind it does not have any engine upgrade options. If this is the vehicle that will work best for you, check out Milton Ruben Toyota for some of the best prices.

Subaru Legacy

When it comes to safety, few brands can compete with Subaru. The 2016 Subaru Legacy is a good choice for the ultimate road trip experience. It combines powerful hardware with its 2.5-liter 175-horsepower engine and software with its Starlink system, which connects all your messages, apps, and travel updates in one easy-to-access smartphone app.

Chrysler Town & County

Although slightly pricier than the other choices on this list, at $30,000, the 2015 Chrysler Town & County definitely commands such price. The car comes with three rows o seating for large families or group of friends. Air bags, power lift gate, and a rearview camera are all included with the model.

Take your pick from these five top car choices for long road trips. These vehicles will all have pros and cons, so be sure you know what features you are prioritizing.

Urban Thinking: Best Compact Cars for Surviving City Life

by Carsurfer Admin on 2016/01/22 in Auto Buying Tips with Comments Off on Urban Thinking: Best Compact Cars for Surviving City Life

A big, full-size SUV can be hard to maneuver in busy metropolitan areas, and urban dwellers need a small vehicle that does not burn a lot of fuel. Here are some of the best compact vehicles for surviving city life.

Fiat 500 Abarth

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The Fiat 500 Abarth for is for the commuters who desire an extra measure of performance. Featuring Fiat’s exclusive Multi-Air technology, the hatchback’s turbocharged engine produces a satisfying 160 horsepower. Meanwhile, a sports-tuned suspension enables the 500 Abarth to deliver sports car-like handling. The vehicle’s race-inspired styling makes it even more appealing. In terms of gas mileage, drivers can average up to 34 mpg.

Honda Fit

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The Fit is a fun-to-drive hatchback that offers a lot of versatility and tends to sell very fast. The car’s quick-revving engine makes it a joy to drive on an everyday basis, and although the Fit may look small, it actually offers a family-sized interior. If you need to transport extra cargo, the rear seats can be easily folded down.

Nissan LEAF

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With a maximum driving range of more than 100 miles, the Nissan LEAF is an ideal electric vehicle. Drivers can cruise around the city without spending any money on fuel. When attempting to park in a tight spot, the LEAF’s tiny size will certainly come in handy. The best part is that Nissan offers a convenient home-charging system. Up to five people will be able to tag along for the ride.

Toyota Prius C

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Over the past few years, the Toyota Prius C has become very popular. The urban vehicle’s combined gas mileage of 50 mpg will intrigue a lot of drivers, and an Entune audio system provides constant entertainment. Owners will definitely appreciate the Prius C’s low cost of maintenance.

Honda CR-Z

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This is one of the few hybrid vehicles that actually offer a manual gearbox. The sporty two-seater is perfect for the people who don’t need to haul around a family. Honda’s renowned Vtec technology helps the CR-Z’s hybrid engine to develop an exciting 130 horsepower. If you desire a quick burst of performance, you can press the nifty Sport Plus button. Exotic paint colors such as Milano Red and Aegean Blue make the CR-Z stand out from the crowd.

Every vehicle on this list is perfect for navigating the urban jungle. However, only you can decide which automobile best suits your particular lifestyle. For low cost or used options, don’t forget to check out the Autobank of Kansas City to see tons of different models.

Which Models Will Stand the Test of Time? 5 Cars that Are Known to Last The Longest

by Carsurfer Admin on 2014/04/16 in Auto Design with Comments Off on Which Models Will Stand the Test of Time? 5 Cars that Are Known to Last The Longest

When it comes to choosing a car, most drivers want something reliable, durable, and something they can drive for the next 7 or 8 years. When you’re trying to find a car that will stand the test of time, consider factors like durability, design, and mileage. With that in mind, check out these five models that are proven to last and are top consumer picks.

Toyota Corolla Eco

The Toyota Corolla comes highly recommended  not only because it’s a great mid-size car but also due to the good mileage it offers. A new Corolla can get 42 mpg on the highway and 30 mpg in city driving. Corollas are known to excel in the durability department and can go strong for 200,000-300,000 miles or more when properly cared for. The maintenance cost of a Corolla is not overly expensive, making it one of the top picks for those who want a car to stick with them through the years.

Subaru Impreza

The Subaru Impreza station wagon is another great choice for a long-lasting car that has gotten high consumer ratings. It offers 36 mpg on the highway and 27 mpg in the city. This car can also go well over 200,000 miles and is known for its solid engine. Regular low-cost maintenance will keep it going, and the Impreza is a consumer favorite because it holds up well overall. When you don’t have to pay a ton in maintenance costs, its much easier to care for your car on a more regular basis.

Volkswagen Passat

If you watched the 2014 Superbowl, you might remember a fun little commercial done by Volkswagen boasting that VW has the most cars on the road over 100,000 miles—obviously a VW needs to make this list of most durable cars. Passat owners are happy with this zippy little model that sticks with them through thick and thin, lasts through their kids’ childhood, and accompanies them on countless family road trips. Volkswagen cars enjoy long lives for many reasons, the actual structure of the car being one major contributor. Engineers use laser seam welding to create a stronger frame for the car, and hot wax flooding is used to keep the car from corroding too fast.

Honda Accord

Another good option when you’re looking for longevity is the Honda Accord. It’s built well, and with routine maintenance will “go the distance” so to speak. Accords are notable for interiors that stay intact and keep a nice look as well. Their mileage isn’t too shabby either, with 34 mpg on the highway and 24 mpg in the city. They frequently last up to 300,000 miles, making them a reliable and obvious choice for plenty of consumers.

Toyota Prius

This is one of the top picks today for longevity and economy. The Prius goes an incredible 51 mpg on the highway and 48 mpg in the city, making it extremely fuel efficient. It can last for 300,000 miles with the proper care and maintenance. However, the battery is guaranteed to last at least 8-10 years, or 100,000 to 150,000 miles before needing replacement. As you can see, one of the keys to a long-lasting vehicle is easy and inexpensive maintenance, both of which the Prius can offer you.
These are five of the top vehicles to keep in mind when you’re shopping for a ride that will give you the longest service with minimal upkeep and maintenance. Some people enjoy trading in for a new model every year or two, but many people want to find a car they like and stick with it for as long as possible. If you’re the type of driver that wants to use a vehicle for all it’s worth before purchasing a new one, make sure you make the right choice from the beginning. Choosing a car that has proven it’s ability to stand the test of time, but that has also won a place in the hearts of consumers will ensure that you have a better chance of keeping the car throughout the years and getting your moneys’ worth for it.

AUTHOR BIO: This article was written by Dixie Somers, a freelance writer who loves to write for business, finance, women’s interests, and technology. Dixie lives in Arizona with her husband and three beautiful daughters. Information for this article was provided by the auto professionals of National Transmission, who specialize in red deer transmission repair.

About the 2014 Toyota Tacoma Access Cab

by Carsurfer Admin on 2013/11/04 in Toyota with Comments Off on About the 2014 Toyota Tacoma Access Cab

The small pickup truck market has steadily shrunk since the 1990s as shoppers choose larger trucks that offer more power, higher payloads, tremendous towing capabilities and fairly competitive fuel mileage. Mitsubishi, Isuzu, Chevrolet, Ford and Dodge have left the market with only Toyota and Nissan remaining.

The Toyota Tacoma controls two-thirds of the small pickup truck market, fielding regular and extended cab models including the Access Cab, a truck with two standard doors and dual, large rear hinge access doors. Its the middle model in the Tacoma line up, priced from $20,515 and sold in 4×2, 4×4 and PreRunner configurations.

Engines and Transmissions

The standard engine with the 2014 Toyota Tacoma is a 2.7-liter inline four cylinder, a 16-valve motor with direct fuel injection. This engine makes 159 horsepower at 5,200 rpm and 180 foot-pounds of torque at 3,800 rpm. It measures 3.74 bore by 3.74 stroke and has a 9:6-to-1 compression ratio. A five-speed manual transmission is standard; a four-speed automatic transmission is available.

Buyers can also choose a 4.0-liter V-6 engine, a 24-valve motor that is also outfitted with direct fuel injection. This engine makes 236 horsepower at 5,200 rpm and 266 foot-pounds of torque at 4,000 rpm. It measures 3.70 bore by 3.74 stroke and has a 10.0-to-1 compression ratio. A six-speed manual transmission is standard; a five speed automatic transmission is available. 

Technical Information

The Access Cab is a 4×2 model or it can be equipped with part-time 4×4. It comes with a coil spring independent double wishbone suspension up front and a leaf spring rigid suspension in the rear. This model has rack-and-pinion power steering, ventilated front disc brakes, leading-drum brakes in the rear, and is outfitted with standard 15-inch steel wheels.

Optional wheels include 15- and 16-inch styled steel wheels, and 17- and 18-inch alloy wheels. All season tires are standard; mud & snow rated tires are also available. This truck is equipped with an anti-lock brake system, electronic braking distribution, brake assist, stability control, and traction control. 

Vehicle Dimensions

The Toyota Tacoma Access Cab sits on a 127.4-inch wheelbase and measures 208.1 inches long, up to 70.3 inches tall and as much as 74.3 inches wide. It comes equipped with a 6-foot bed.

This model has a ground clearance of 7.9 to 9.1 inches. Its payload ranges from 1,255 to 1,500 pounds. Standard towing capacity is 3,500 pounds. Choose the optional V-6 tow prep package and that limit pushes up to 6,500 pounds. The Tacoma is outfitted with a 21.1-gallon fuel tank and is rated as high as 21 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway, and as low as 15 mpg in the city and 19 mpg on the highway. Regular grade gasoline is recommended.

Key Features

The Toyota Tacoma Access Cab comes equipped or has available the following exterior features: mud guards, an engine skid plate, variable speed wipers, fog lights, bed tie downs, and a full spare tire.

Inside, Toyota equips this model with air conditioning, fabric-trimmed front seats, fold up rear seats with under seat storage, power windows and power door locks, LED-illuminated gauges, a tilt and telescopic steering wheel, rear seat heat vents, two 12-volt outlets, two bottle holders up front, and up to five cup holders.

An Entune audio system is standard across the model line. The multimedia package features an AM/FM/CD player. a 6.1-inch touchscreen, iPod connectivity, hands-free phone access, voice recognition, Bluetooth wireless technology, and an auxiliary jack. An upgraded package with SiriusXM satellite radio is available as are navigation and app suite package upgrades.

Tacoma Considerations

The Toyota Tacoma made its debut in 1995, but Toyota has been building trucks for decades. The previous model was simply known as "Pickup." 

Several special equipment packages are available including SR5, TRD Off-Road, TRD Sport Package and a Limited package. Equipment upgrades include a front tow hook, a 115-volt outlet, chrome grille surround, upgraded seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, an integrated backup camera a and special graphics. Chrome cladding, color-keyed bumpers and heated front seats are among the other available upgrades.

Photo courtesy of Toyota.

Author Information
Harrison Plamer is a professional blogger that provides information on CDL truck driving and owner operator truck driving jobs. He writes for BestDriverJobs.com, the best place to find a truck driving job nationwide.