Toyota

2010 Toyota Prius

The 3rd generation Prius Hybrid. More of a good thing!

Some say imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, with the 3rd generation of the now ubiquitous Prius, Toyota has created a segment that uses the distinctive and efficient constant radius crescent shape as the definitive hybrid design element other car companies are copying.

Imagine being in an auto show in 1980 envisioning what a futuristic four door sedan should look like in 2010. The Toyota Prius may in fact, come close to that vision. Everything part of the Prius’ design is either function or efficiency driven. The body lines and shape are tight and angular, creating a slippery .025 drag coefficient in wind tunnel testing. There are unique aerodynamic enhancements to the front-lower bumpers as well as the rear tail light lenses. A major, yet almost unnoticeable change with the exterior design from generation 2 was the top of the roof curve which was shifted further back along the roof line in order to give rear passengers better ease of entry as well as rear seat headroom. Not to mention, the rear hatch has a longer and shallower angle as well. The rear half of the roof is fitted with solar power cells that convert solar energy to electric power, enough to run interior vent fans. What a super idea! Simply press a button on the left of the dash and when the panels have enough solar energy, ambient air is vented throughout the car. The pre-production prototype this writer drove also had the optional remote A/C operation. Press “A/C” on the key fob and the car’s air conditioning system will operate for up to three minutes. Time it right and you can walk out to a car that’s cooled after hours in the sweltering heat.

Inside you instantly notice the futuristic, clean, spacious look of the cabin. The center console is divided by a “flying buttress” giving plenty of under center dash storage. The controls are well thought out and intuitive to use. There is a small knob that is actually the gear selector, adding to the high-tech, and futuristic theme of the whole car. Just forward and right of the gear selector are three push buttons that give the driver individual operation modes that they wish to use. ECO mode is default, giving best overall economy by reducing accelerator and A/C strength. To the left is EV Mode. This gives the option of, under certain conditions, to drive up to one mile at 25 MPH or less only on electric power. (Great for late night covert driving operations… read. Your son getting home unnoticed after curfew) Far right button is the POWER setting, which gives full authority of the throttle and max A/C capabilities. This setting gives the driver the most performance as we found out later in the week.

Don’t think that just because it’s a hybrid the Prius is a slouch, in our unscientific stop light test we happen to come across an eager older gentlemen driving a mid 80’s Mercedes-Benz 190E 2.3 16V sports sedan. He looked over at me and I knew he wanted to see what the Prius had under the hood. I smiled at the silver haired gentleman and discretely selected the Power mode, we were ready for the stop light challenge. Green light and off we went; pretty much dead even up to 30-35 MPH, the 190E huffed and puffed and by the time we hit 50 MPH he was barely a half car ahead of me. Holy Battery Connectors Batman! The Prius held its own against a sport sedan. Impressive!

When driving a car such as the Toyota Prius one can’t help but to feel more efficient. I for one, worked hard at driving smoother, trying to squeeze better fuel economy on every trip and to increase the average MPG. We saw a best of 49.5 MPG during our stint with the Prius, definitely the best mileage I have ever had in any car.
The 2010 Toyota Prius, a smooth, efficient and comfortable futuristic sedan available now.

The Essentials:

• MSRP range: $22,000.00-$27,300.00
• Fuel Economy (Observed): 47 MPG
• Engine: 1.8 liter 4 cylinder / Permanent magnet electric motor. 134 HP combined.
• Popular options: Navigation, roof solar panel, Bluetooth connectivity, Smart key, Homelink, remote A/C system
• Visit: www.toyota.com

2009 Toyota Venza

By: Juan G. Robbin

The perfect definition of a crossover!
Toyota Venza (2009)

The all-new-for-2009 Toyota Venza is exactly what you would expect from a modern and efficient crossover. The Venza hits all of the key selling points right in the bulls’ eye when it comes to comfort, use of space and visibility.

The shape is a mix between a traditional station wagon and SUV. The front styling has good presence with a grill and headlights that are different from the rest of the Toyota model range. The dramatically angled front windshield offers an elegant design element, offering excellent visibility available from the front seats. Looking at the rear of the Venza, there is an SUV-like rear side glass design sloping downward creating the angled shape of the rear hatch. One of the most distinctive items on the Venza, are the beautifully sculpted optional 20” wheels. These fill up the wheel wells perfectly in addition to making the Venza look modern and contemporary. What did we like most? How easy it is to get in and out of the front seats. This comfort item is made possible by the seat height over the ground as well as the lower door contour design that lets a person get closer to the car frame and the seat before getting in or getting out. It is one of those subtle yet noticeable things that make life with the Venza a more pleasant experience.

Inside the Venza’s cabin you are greeted with a spacious, modern looking interior, showing off a different design and feel from that of previous Toyota models yet not giving up any of the renowned Toyota quality. The top of the dash is made out of a modern looking grooved plastic that is both nice to look at and functional, minimizing the glare from the large windshield. There are well thought off cup holders that have a secret cooled storage compartment below the sliding panel. This is pretty nifty for keeping water bottles chilled. There is a high-center multi function display that show average fuel economy, miles to empty, chronometer and other niceties, all presented in excellent graphic quality. One thing that is apparent in the Venza, is the amount of Lexus technology which includes the touch screen multi-function display and switchgear among other gee-wiz items in its design.

Front seats are noticeably comfortable; with power adjust as well as heating. Rear seats are 60/40 split and offer good space for two, snug for three. There is a cavernous rear cargo area which is well appointed and detailed, offering a removable sliding privacy shade that gives peace of mind from prying eyes when leaving anything on board. An optional center roof-mounted DVD player with wireless headphones is available, definitely a nice touch for long trips with the little ones.

The powerful 6 cylinder engine feels right at home in the Venza. It’s smooth and fast in response, even with a full load. Fuel economy and range are good, with 20 MPG consistently possible and over 300 miles between fill ups being the norm. Ride and suspension feel, even with the 20” optional wheels and tires is excellent. We did notice a bit more than usual road and wind noise at highway speeds, but still within comfortable limits.
The 2009 Toyota Venza is exactly what a crossover should be with none of the bad habits of an SUV.

The Essentials

MSRP: $27,800.00 MSRP (As tested): $37,485.00
Fuel Economy: (Observed): 19.7 MPG
Engine: V6, 3.5 liter,
Popular Options: 20” wheels, center mounted DVD system, heated seats, premium package, voice activated touch screen multi-function display
Visit: www.toyota.com

2009 Toyota Matrix

By: Juan G. Robbin

Quality blended with versatility and practicality
Toyota Corolla Matrix XRS (2009)

Redesigned and all new-for 2009, the Toyota Matrix has evolved into a comfortable and practical vehicle that is a great fit for most uses. Its size makes it easy to maneuver in an urban environment, while giving you the feeling of being in a spacious yet compact crossover style car. In fact, the Matrix is one of the pioneers of the crossover segment.

The use of space inside has been optimized by the redesign of the seats and interior. Once seated in the comfortable sports inspired front seats you are instantly drawn to the center dash, which feels as if it’s floating rather than being anchored to the floor. All of the controls are exactly where you would naturally expect them to be, so much so that one can find most of them without even looking. Bravo Toyota! There are numerous storage areas and cubby holes throughout, including a nice flat compartment within the glove box.
Driving the Toyota Matrix gives the feeling of being in a tight, well engineered stable vehicle. There is nothing that makes it outstanding performance wise, but it wasn’t designed to be a high performance vehicle either. The whole package works well together, such as excellent interior ergonomics, good all around visibility and direct, yet subtle feedback from its steering and suspension. Ride is quiet and comfortable; however, we did notice that the engine does get a bit noisy when accelerating, especially at highway speeds.

Rear seat is comfortable, with good ventilation and leg room. A fifth person fits but elbow room would be a bit tight. Rear cargo area is large, convenient and expandable by folding of the rear 60/40 split seats.

With its modern styling, comfortable interior and Toyota quality, the all-new-for 2009 Matrix is definitely worth a closer look.

The Essentials

MSRP: $21,850.00 MSRP (As tested): $24,759.00
Fuel Economy (Observed): 21 MPG in mixed driving
Engine: 4 cylinder, 2.4 liter, 158 HP
Popular Options: Remote keyless entry, sunroof.
Visit: www.toyota.com

2008 Toyota Tundra CrewMax

By: Juan G. Robbin

Smooth, powerful and comfortable. Could this be the perfect full-sized pickup truck?
Toyota Tundra 4X4 Crewmax 5.7 liter Limited (2008)

After 885 miles of urban and highway driving, the Toyota Tundra Crewmax left us convinced of its excellent capability and extraordinary comfort for a full sized pickup truck.

This is a massive truck in size and capacity, yet easy to live with in an urban environment. Sure, the typical pickup truck ride height is there but so are the nice to have features like power everything, including full sized display rear back-up camera, GPS navigation system, climate control and enough storage areas throughout the cabin that would make even a pack rat envious.

The doors are huge and so is the space inside. Rear 60/40 split seats have fore-aft and seat back angle adjustments that will make anyone comfortable. Leg room is limo-like and there are rear ventilation vents that together with window privacy tints, make the rear seating area a comfortable place to be even on a long trip. Yes, this is a pickup truck.

Driver and passenger seats have a commanding position, reachable through easy to use fixed full length step running boards. Controls, displays and appointments are typical Toyota, that is to say, first rate quality and function. The instrument cluster has a center multi-function display that has easy to read numbers that include trip odometer, average MPG, miles to empty, instant economy and timer. Buttons for these functions are big and easy to reach, located on the side of the instrument panel.

Starting the engine on the Tundra gives you an instant reminder this is a big truck with a big, brawny V8 motor under its hood. Wheel turning radius is car-like and backing up into a parking spot or hitching up a trailer is a breeze thanks to the backup camera and large center display. Acceleration is brisk, especially for a vehicle of this size. However, there is a price to pay for having a full sized pickup truck with a big V8 engine, fuel economy. We averaged 15.1 miles to the gallon in mixed driving and that’s being smooth on the accelerator pedal. Pulling a trailer or having a lead foot will bring that average into credit card melting territory. Toyota, where is a diesel or a hybrid engine for the Tundra? Either of these types of engines would be a marriage made in fuel economy heaven.

If you want a vehicle with pickup truck capability and car-like comfort, then the Toyota Tundra 4X4 Crewmax 5.7 liter Limited merits strong consideration.

The Essentials

MSRP: $42,070.00 MSRP (As tested): $46,196.00
Fuel Economy (Observed): 15.1 MPG
Engine: V8, 5.7 liter, 381 HP
Popular Options: DVD Navigation with rear back-up camera and JBL upgraded sound system. Running boards, 20” alloy wheels.
Visit: www.toyota.com

2008 Toyota Highlander Limited

By: Juan G. Robbin

Smooth, efficient and perfectly sized.
Toyota Highlander Limited 4X4 SUV (2008)

The Toyota Highlander Limited is a mid-sized sport utility that feels more like a car based crossover than a typical SUV vehicle. All-new-for-2008, the 2nd generation Highlander is roomier, larger, quieter and more capable that its replacement.

Being the Limited version, there are noticeable upgrades and options that include full leather, wood finish, navigation, Bluetooth technology, upgraded sound system, rear a/c system plus other options. The Highlander is incredibly quiet and silky smooth, giving you comfort all around regardless of the length of time you are in the vehicle.

Interior is comfortable, with an excellent layout. Controls for the sound system and A/C are large and easy to find and use. Ergonomics work perfectly in the Highlander. Appointments, switches and controls are where you would naturally imagine them to be. The center dash is a bit overwhelming at first, but after a few minutes getting acquainted, they become intuitive to use. Dash details are well thought off and complete, including a fuel economy/Average MPG indicator that helps you get maximum fuel economy when accelerating. We liked the numerous cubby holes and spaces to keep all of the everyday items one seems to bring along when you drive. Rear seat is comfortable, with a flat floor, reclining capability and dual a/c vents emanating from the center console. There is a third row of seats that stows flat, giving ample cargo room. This row is good for kids but tight for adults, specially getting in and out of it. Rear backup camera that shows the image on the multi-function display is a super comfort and safety feature. So no excuses for a sloppy parallel parking job
Why have a full sized SUV when the Toyota Highlander Limited gives you everything one needs in a vehicle, plus the fuel economy that makes you smile every time you fill up the fuel tank.

The Essentials

MSRP: $34,150.00 MSRP (As Tested): $38,846.00
Fuel Economy (Observed): 20.5 MPG
Engine: V6, 3.5 liter, 270 HP
Popular options: Navigation package with voice activation. Luxury package.
Visit: www.toyota.com

2008 Toyota Highlander Limited Hybrid

By: Juan G. Robbin

Smooth, efficient, with everything you need in a family vehicle.
Toyota Highlander Limited Hybrid 4WD (2008)

The Toyota Highlander Hybrid Limited is a mid-sized sport utility that feels more like a car based crossover than a typical SUV vehicle. All-new-for-2008, the 2nd generation Highlander is roomier, larger, quieter and more capable that the original version.

Starting from a full stop you feel as if you are being pushed along by an invisible hand, followed by a slight shudder as the engine comes online. You can see everything that is happening with the engine and electric motors right on a small screen situated on the center dash between the a/c vents. There is a serene, effortless feeling as you drive along at highway speeds. The Highlander is incredibly quiet and silky smooth, giving you comfort all around regardless of the length of time you are in the vehicle.

The ECON drive mode helps you boost fuel economy by smoothing out the throttle response, thus reducing acceleration. This driving option is activated by a switch located in the center console. Next to the ECON switch there is an EV switch that allows you, under certain speeds and conditions, to drive by electric mode only. This feature is excellent for slow, urban stop-and-go traffic.

Interior is comfortable, with an excellent layout. Controls for the sound system and A/C are large and easy to find and use. Ergonomics work perfectly in the Highlander. Appointments, switches and controls are where you would naturally imagine them to be. Dash details are well thought off and complete, including a fuel savings indicator that helps you get maximum fuel economy when accelerating. We liked the numerous cubby holes and spaces to keep all of the everyday items one seems to bring along when you drive. Rear seat is comfortable, with a flat floor and dual a/c vents emanating from the center console. There is a third row of seats that stows flat, giving ample cargo room. This row is good for kids but tight for adults, specially getting in and out of it. Rear backup camera that shows the image on the multi-function display is a super comfort and safety feature.

Why have a full sized SUV when the Toyota Highlander Hybrid Limited gives you everything one needs in a vehicle, plus the fuel economy that makes you smile every time you fill up the fuel tank.

The Essentials

MSRP: $39,950.00 MSRP (As Tested): $41,793.00
Fuel Economy (Observed): 26 MPG
Engine: V6, 3.3 liter, 270 HP
Popular options: Navigation with voice activation. Luxury package.
Visit: www.toyota.com