The hybrid vehicle market continues to grow in the United States each year. As a brief refresher, hybrid vehicles combine more than one method of propulsion. The typical hybrid combines a gasoline or diesel engine with an electric motor. The hybrid concept benefits drivers by reducing fuel consumption, and it benefits the environment with lower carbon dioxide emissions. Toyota is a leader in hybrid models, and the Japanese manufacturer’s hybrid range spans sedans to SUVs. This article discusses several Toyota hybrid options for the 2021 model year. 

Corolla Hybrid

Image used with permission via toyota.com

The Toyota Corolla is a household name in the compact car class that has traveled roads all over the world since its initial release back in 1966. Gracing Toyota dealerships for over five decades, the Corolla’s most recent evolution sees its current lineup embrace the hybrid vehicle movement. Starting with performance, the 2021 Toyota Corolla hybrid has an EPA-estimated 52 mpg on city and highway roads combined. This fuel economy rating is the highest ever for a Corolla. 

The Corolla Hybrid is also an extremely enjoyable vehicle to drive. Its sporty road stance is low and wide. The impressive suspension system and Hybrid Power mode combine to make this hybrid a joy to ride. Power Mode increases the throttle response for a more exciting driving experience. 

Every 2021 Toyota Corolla hybrid comes with a suite of excellent active safety features designed for maximum protection. The suite, named Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, includes a pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, dynamic radar cruise control, and lane departure alerts. 

Prius Hybrid

The 2021 Toyota Prius Hybrid is another great option if you’re in the market for a new compact car. Where the Corolla excels with a sporty drive and impressive style, the Prius has better fuel economy and a more spacious interior. The most fuel-efficient configuration of the 2021Prius has EPA-estimated ratings of 58 mpg on city roads and 53 mpg on the highway for a combined total of 56 mpg. 

The Toyota Prius set the initial standard for hybrid vehicles when it was first introduced all the way back in 1997. Its initial launch to the Japanese market made the Prius the first mass-market hybrid vehicle. The worldwide launch of the Prius followed in 2000, and it is still regarded by many as the standard that hybrid cars are measured against.

If you want to get a roomy sedan that has enough space to regularly transport large loads, the Prius gives you 50.7 cubic feet of space with the second row folded down. Even with the second row not folded, the trunk of the Prius is incredibly roomy for a compact car, boasting 27.4 cubic feet of space for your things. Another exciting feature is the electronic all-wheel-drive, which gives you excellent control via four-wheel traction at speeds up to 43 mph. 

Camry Hybrid

The Toyota Camry is a wide-bodied midsize car that has been in production since 1982. Reliability, handling, and a slew of technology features mark the Camry out as an ideal option in the family-sedan segment. The LE trim level provides the best fuel economy rating of the 2021 Camry hybrid’s available trim levels with an EPA-estimated 52 mpg on city and highway roads combined. 

In terms of technology features for the driving experience, the Camry comes with a nifty four-mode drive switch system. You can alternate between EV, ECO, Normal, and Sport driving modes at the flick of a switch. The Sport driving mode increases throttle response, while the ECO mode adjusts throttle input to maximize efficiency. The unique exterior silhouette features a muscular build and chiseled surfaces that ensure a sport-inspired style. 

A hybrid energy monitor, Wi-Fi Connect, and a remote vehicle monitor are three of several advanced technology features on the Camry hybrid. The remote vehicle monitor is an especially underrated feature that lets you easily identify your Camry in a crowded parking lot. 

Highlander Hybrid

Moving away from the compact and midsize car classes and into the SUV class, the 2021 Toyota Highlander is an excellent hybrid option if you prefer midsize crossover SUVs. The Highlander first appeared back in the 2001 model year, and it has remained an ever-popular option since. SUV hybrids tend to have lower fuel efficiency than sedans — however, the Highlander’s EPA-estimated figure of 36 mpg on city and highway roads combined is still impressive. 

The Highlander has a four-mode driving switch that is similar to the Camry’s but with the addition of a Trail mode that gives added traction to all-wheel-drive modes. Speaking of all-wheel-drive, you can buy your Highlander Hybrid with a front-wheel-drive powertrain or an all-wheel-drive one.  

An enormous 12.3-inch touch screen provides an amazing display with which you can access the Highlander’s bundle of technology features. Expect Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and even Amazon Alexa compatibility for the latest in smartphone and voice technology integrations. The powerful 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine outputs 243 horsepower in combination with two electric motors. The Highlander has enough room for eight people in its three rows. 

Venza Hybrid

Last but not least, the 2021 Toyota Venza is another solid hybrid option in the SUV class. In fact, the Venza is another midsize crossover SUV, which puts it in the same market as the Highlander. The Toyota Venza is the more budget-friendly option of the two SUVs; its fuel efficiency is slightly better than the Highlander’s at 39 mpg on city and highway roads combined. 

The Venza has seating for up to five people across its two rows, and it is less powerful than the Highlander. All-wheel drive is standard on the Venza, but it’s a premium upgrade with the Highlander. Overall, the Toyota Venza is a better hybrid option if you don’t need three rows and you’d prefer the higher fuel economy rating. 

That rounds up the main hybrid Toyota vehicles for 2021. Hopefully, this post provided some insight on the hybrid vehicle best suited to your needs. If you’re ready to make a purchase, you can check out our range of new Toyota vehicles for sale today. 

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Summer is only a few short months away, which means it’s almost time to get your boat out of storage and get back out on the water. If you’re looking for a reliable and fuel-efficient SUV to tow your boat, you can’t go wrong with the Toyota RAV4. Although larger Toyota SUVs and trucks, such as the Tacoma or the 4Runner, have the power to haul heavier loads, if you just want to take your fishing boat or your small motorboat to the lake, you can easily tow it with the RAV4.

How Much Can The RAV4 Tow?

When equipped, the 2021 RAV4 can tow up to 3,500 pounds. This is plenty of power for towing a small boat. If you need to haul a full carload of people and gear while towing, the Adventure and TRD Off-Road trims have the power to tow up to 3,500 pounds while hauling up to a 1,090-pound payload. The several RAV4 trim levels have various towing capacities. The entry-level RAV4 can tow up to 1,500 pounds, which is enough for a smaller, lighter boat. 

The RAV4 Hybrid is also capable of towing light loads. It has a 2.5-liter four-cylinder gas engine and two electric motors that together put out 219 horsepower. All-wheel drive comes standard with one of the electric motors powering the front wheels and the other designated for the rear wheels. A CVT works with the powertrain for quick and efficient acceleration. Add the trailer hitch, and this hybrid RAV4 can tow up to 1,750 pounds.

The RAV4 lineup also includes the Prime. This model is a plug-in hybrid with a four-cylinder gas engine and three electric motors. The Prime’s combination of gas and electric power generates 302 horsepower, and it’s capable of towing up to 2,500 pounds. 

What Makes The RAV4 Perfect For Towing?

Image via Flickr by Jeffrey Beall

A long list of features and equipment make the RAV4 perfect for towing, but what sets it apart from many other small SUVs is its fuel-efficiency even with a full load. The reason for the excellent combination of towing power and fuel efficiency is the RAV4’s engine and performance features. 

The regular RAV4 comes with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder gas engine with DOHC D-4S injection with dual variable valve timing. It generates 203 horsepower and gets 184 pound-feet of torque. Front-wheel drive comes standard, but all-wheel drive is available for any trim level, making it capable of tackling some rough terrain if you need to bring your boat to a remote area. 

The RAV4 lets you choose from several driving modes: Sport, Eco, and Normal. In the higher trims, you can use the Multi-Terrain Select dial to choose the mode that gets you the most traction for the road conditions. With just the twist of a dial, you can select between mud and sand, rock and dirt, snow, and normal. When activated, the system can detect slipping and regulate the wheel spin by automatically adjusting the throttle and brakes.

The multi-link rear suspension helps deliver a smooth ride and provides the driver with the confidence they need when pulling a trailer. The suspension enhances handling and offers more control by working with the RAV4’s natural body rigidity to keep it steady over any road surface.

What Do The Adventure And TRD Trim Levels Offer?

The Adventure trim is one of the best RAV4 models for towing. It comes with Toyota’s Dynamic Torque Vectoring all-wheel-drive system, which can disconnect the rear axle when needed to improve fuel economy. This off-road model also gains hill descent control, fender flares, 19-inch split five-spoke alloy wheels, multi-LED headlights with chrome bezels and automatic high beams, and LED daytime running lights. The Adventure also has integrated fog lights, LED taillights, and heated power-adjustable side mirrors with integrated turn signals.

The TRD Off-Road has the towing power of the Adventure, but it adds even more off-road features to make it more capable when the terrain gets rough. This model has Toyota’s TRD-tuned independent MacPherson strut front suspension with a stabilizer bar and multi-link rear suspension with a stabilizer bar. It also comes with Flaken all-terrain tires and a height-adjustable power liftgate. All-wheel drive comes standard with the TRD Off-Road, and this trim has 8.6 inches of ground clearance, which is more than all the other trims and models.

What Are Some Available Features That Enhance Towing Performance?

Toyota offers a variety of features that will help with the RAV4’s towing performance. Extras such as active cornering assist, power-assisted ventilated 12-inch front disc brakes, and ventilated 11.1-inch rear disc brakes with the Star Safety System are available, depending on the trim. You can also get a trailering wishbone-style multi-link rear suspension that provides a more stable towing experience.

What Are The RAV4’S Safety Features?

Safety is always important when you’re behind the wheel, but it’s even more critical when you’re towing. The 2021 RAV4 comes loaded with active and passive safety features, including many driver aids that assist you in staying alert and aware of what’s around you when you’re out on the road. 

Some standard safety features for the 2021 RAV4 include lane-keep assist, lane-departure warning, and lane-trace assist. The lane-trace assist keeps the RAV4 centered in the lane and works even over curvy roads. You also get forward collision warning, pedestrian detection, and a road sign recognition system. An automatic emergency braking system works with the forward collision warning feature to help stop the RAV4 when a collision is imminent, and automatic high-beam headlights automatically transition between high and low beams.

If you’re looking for a capable SUV that can tow a small boat, but you also want to maximize fuel efficiency, the Toyota RAV4 will get the job done. Don’t wait for summer to get here. Stop by Panama City Toyota and test drive the latest RAV4 Adventure, TRD Off-Road, or even the hybrid model. You’ll love the ride and its capabilities. Contact us to schedule your test drive today!

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Tired of cooking but don’t feel like going out? Plenty of Panama City restaurants offer takeout meals you can enjoy in the comfort of your own home. Whether you’re in the mood for locally-caught seafood, a savory pasta dish, or a flame-broiled filet, you’re sure to find it in the area.

Thomas Donut And Snack Shop

Image via Flickrby wuestenigel

Don’t let the name fool you. While Thomas Donut is known for its sweet breakfast treats, this Panama City staple has a variety of items on its menu. In addition to its huge donut selection, this laid-back eatery offers pizzas, chicken sandwiches, hot dogs, chicken salad sandwiches, and more. Dozens of different donut flavors, including cinnamon twist, lemon-filled, and old-fashioned sour cream cake, are available for you to choose from.

There’s no need to call ahead. Just walk right up to the counter and place your order. In the busy summer months, long lines often form, especially in the morning, so time your visit accordingly. Located directly across the street from the gulf in the dazzling Laguna Beach community, Thomas Donut’s hours vary seasonally, making it a good idea to check its Facebook page before you go.

Uncle Ernie’s Bayfront Bar And Grill

Located on the bay in Panama City’s historic St. Andrews, Uncle Ernie’s serves a variety of seafood, chicken, and steak dishes. Simply give them a call to place your to-go order. Choose from an extensive menu that features several appetizers, soups, salads, entrees, and dessert choices. A lunch menu is available from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., and a children’s menu is available for kids 12 and under.

If you ever decide to dine in, Uncle Ernie’s has an abundance of covered outdoor seating in addition to its indoor dining space. Ceiling fans provide a nice breeze during the hot summer months, and you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of St. Andrews Bay while you dine. Uncle Ernie’s is open seven days a week from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Bayou Joe’s

Overlooking Panama City’s beautiful Massalina Bayou, Bayou Joe’s is a local favorite and one of the area’s best-kept secrets. The laid-back eatery overflows with Old-Florida charm and serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. To order your takeout meal, just give them a quick phone call. Meals are made to order, and vegetarian and gluten-free menus are available upon request. Choose from sandwiches, seafood baskets, salads, and more.

While it won’t affect your takeout order, you might be interested to know that when you dine in at Bayou Joe’s, you’ll enjoy your meal on a covered dock that extends over the water. What’s more, Bayou Joe’s has installed underwater glow lights beneath the dock that attract a variety of fish and other sea creatures, making dining in, especially at night, a unique and interesting experience.

Bayou Joe’s is closed on Tuesdays, and its hours may vary seasonally, so check the website before making your meal plans.

Capt. Anderson’s Restaurant And Waterfront Market

Capt. Anderson’s, which opened its doors in 1967, serves some of the area’s best seafood and steaks. Located in Panama City Beach near the Thomas Drive Bridge, this waterfront restaurant is an easy drive from both Panama City’s downtown area and many popular hotels and resorts.

Go to the Capt. Anderson’s website to order online and choose either delivery or curbside pickup. Traditional, gluten-free, dessert, and children’s menus are available. Start your meal with an appetizer, such as Capt. Anderson’s famed shrimp cocktail or the seared jumbo sea scallops. Continue with a main course of fresh seafood, poultry, or steak, and finish up with a decadent dessert. Pasta, salad, and soups are available as well. Look for menu items marked with a star; they are Capt. Anderson’s classic dishes, the most popular items on the menu.

If you choose to pick up your order, several parking spaces reserved for online orders are conveniently located near the restaurant’s entrance. Arrive a little early and spend some time strolling the boardwalks surrounding the restaurant and watching the fishing charters come in. Capt. Anderson’s opens at 4:30 p.m. for dinner and is closed on Sundays, but its hours are subject to change seasonally.

Firefly

Firefly is a restaurant and sushi bar specializing in locally-caught seafood, prime cuts of steak, fresh sushi, and artisan pizzas. Winner of a multitude of awards, including the Florida Trend’s Golden Spoon Award and the Best of the Bay Award, Firefly makes ordering dinner online a breeze. Simply navigate to the website and order from their to-go menu.

Choose from a range of appetizers, including fried calamari, tuna stuffed jalapenos, and jumbo lump crab cakes. For your main course, choose from an assortment of poultry, seafood, pork, and steak entrees. Firefly also features an extensive sushi menu, and a kid’s menu is provided as well.

If you ever feel like dining in, reservations are recommended but not required. Just give them a call if you’d like to reserve a table. Located in Panama City Beach’s Shoppes at Edgewater, Firefly opens at 5:00 p.m. for dinner daily.

Chewie’s Kitchen

Locally-owned and operated, Chewie’s Kitchen specializes in soups, salads, and sandwiches. Order online from Chewie’s website and opt for pickup or delivery. Note that delivery orders will incur a delivery fee.

Chewie’s is a casual eatery featuring a variety of savory toasted sandwiches, such as their turkey ranch melt and grilled buffalo chicken club. Choose from several salad options, including Greek, Italian, and Caesar, that all come with housemade dressing. For dessert, try a piece of homemade Key Lime pie or fried cheesecake. The children’s menu features classic childhood favorites like grilled cheese sandwiches, chicken fingers, and grilled chicken strips.

Located near Thomas Drive, Chewie’s is open for lunch and dinner and is closed on Tuesdays.

We hope Panama City Toyota’s recommendations for the best restaurants for takeout in the area are helpful. Did we miss one of your favorites? Need more options? If so, please contact us and let us know. We’ll be sure to add to our list!

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Spanning multiple generations and almost 40 years of production, the Toyota Camry is a ubiquitous car on American roads. The Camry is a mid-size car best suited to the needs of single people, couples, and small families. Characterized by Toyota’s unending dedication to innovation and feature-packed vehicles, the 2021 Camry is well worth considering if you’re in the market for a new car. This article overviews the trim levels, power, style, technology, and safety features in the 2021 Toyota Camry.

Trim Levels (Exterior)

Image used with permission via toyota.com

For 2021, there are five distinct trim levels to choose from in the Toyota Camry when you visit your local dealership. The L trim used to be the base level trim, but that has been discontinued for the 2021 model year. The base trim level is now the LE trim. The exterior features on the LE include LED Daytime Running Lights, LED taillights with black accents, a stylish dark gray front grille, a sliding moonroof, and 17-inch alloy wheels.

The next trim level, the SE, enhances the exterior with a black front grille that has a sport mesh insert, color sport side rocker panels, 18-inch black machined-finish alloy wheels, an exhaust with dual chrome tips, and a color-keyed rear spoiler. The XLE trim reverts back to a dark gray front grille but this time with chrome accents. Other exterior features of note on the XLE include 18-inch dark gray machined-finish alloy wheels and a chrome-finish exhaust.

The XSE trim level has LED headlights with suave black accents, a gloss-black front grille, 19-inch gloss-black wheels, and a dual exhaust with quad chrome tips. Rounding the trim levels off is the TRD, which comes with a matte-black center cap with red TRD logo, gloss-black pedestal rear spoiler, TRD gloss-black front splitter, side aero skirts, and a cat-back dual exhaust with polished stainless steel tips.

Power And Performance

The Camry comes with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 203 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. The standard engine has EPA-estimated fuel economy ratings of 28 mpg on city roads, 39 mpg on the highway, and a combined average of 32 mpg. The engine comes paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Available all-wheel drive provides better traction and control in challenging weather conditions.

There is another engine option available to Camry owners who opt for the TRD trim level. This more powerful engine reflects the TRD’s sporty exterior and it generates impressive power ratings of 301 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque. The TRD’s engine is a 3.5-liter V-6 with dual injection technology. The dual injection provides improved efficiency and raises the peak torque levels the car can reach. The transmission system paired with the V-6 engine is an 8-speed automatic. You get a combined fuel economy rating of 25 mpg on city and highway roads.

Interior

All base models come with front air conditioning, a backup camera, fabric-trimmed front seats, linear dark interior trim, and a 4.2-inch driver information display. The information display shows you an odometer, outside temperature, fuel economy and trip information, average fuel economy, distance to empty, and more.

At higher trim levels, you can expect a range of different interior improvements that include an 8-way power-adjustable driver’s seat with power lumbar support, aluminum sport pedals, leather-trimmed front seats with seatback pockets, and a leather-trimmed steering wheel. The highest TRD trim gives you two cup holders in the front, and two bottle holders in both the front and rear of the vehicle for extra convenience. The TRD also comes with a black leather shift knob with red stitching and TRD logo.

Infotainment

Toyota has consistently delivered top-quality infotainment over the years, and the 2021 Camry is no exception. Even at the base LE trim level, you can expect a 12-volt auxiliary power outlet, a USB-C charge port, a 7-inch touchscreen, and an audio system with six speakers.

The Camry’s infotainment package features impressive integrations with popular services, such as Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and even Amazon Alexa. The Alexa integration lets you harness the power of Amazon’s proprietary voice assistant technology.

All trims come with access to the Toyota app, which lets you check up on your vehicle’s health. Another great feature of the Toyota app is that it gives you remote vehicle control, meaning you can use the app to find your Toyota in a crowded parking lot, start the engine, or lock the doors remotely. Simply download the app, sign in with your owner’s credentials, and you can get started using it.

Safety Features

All 2021 Toyota Camry models see the debut of the new Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+ system. This suite of advanced driver assistance tools provides a plethora of features that enhance the safety of your car. New to the latest version of Safety Sense are enhancements to the functionality of two core tools within the suite.

The first tool you’ll see improvements in is the forward-collision warning system. While older versions of the forward collision warning system could only detect vehicles in front, the newer version can identify a bicyclist or pedestrian in both daytime and low-light conditions. You’ll also get alerts when making a left-hand turn at an intersection if there are pedestrians, vehicles, or drivers oncoming.

Full speed range dynamic radar cruise control lets you drive at a preset speed. This dynamic cruise control also uses vehicle-to-vehicle distance control to ensure you maintain a safe distance between your car and the vehicle in front of you.

Aside from Safety Sense 2.5+, the other safety features on the Camry are impressive in their depth. The available blind-spot monitoring system notifies you with rear cross-traffic alerts about vehicles approaching from either side. A high-tech panoramic bird’s eye view camera is available to ensure you get in and out of tricky situations safely and with maximum visibility of your surroundings. Rounding things off to protect you and your passengers if a collision occurs are the ten airbags inside the Camry.

That wraps up this deep dive into the 2021 Toyota Camry. Now that you know about this mid-size car’s exciting range of features, contact us at Panama City Toyota and check out our range of new Toyota vehicles for the latest prices.

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One of the reasons why the 2021 Toyota RAV4 is such a popular SUV is because of its refined and roomy cabin. Besides offering comfortable seating, this compact crossover is equipped with a long list of interior features to give you and your passengers a pleasant and enjoyable ride. It comes in six trim levels to appeal to the needs of different buyers, including the base LE, XLE, XLE Premium, Adventure, TRD Off-Road, and the range-topping Limited. It also has five hybrid models available. Take a closer look at the interior of the 2021 Toyota RAV4.

Build Quality And Styling

Image used with permission via toyota.com

While it isn’t a luxury SUV, the 2021 Toyota RAV4 definitely looks and feels like one on the inside. This crossover’s cabin is solidly built and features modern styling and an abundance of top-quality materials. It’s a well-organized space with a wide dashboard, an easy-to-reach touch screen, and multiple cup holders and trays.

The RAV4’s interior becomes more refined and attractive as you go up the trim ladder. Each trim has a distinctive color scheme that sets it apart from other SUVs. The Adventure spices things up with bright orange accents, while the Limited looks handsome and posh with an eye-pleasing combination of dark and gray colors and mocha-colored accents. Some models feature contrast stitching to add a touch of sophistication.

Dimensions

Despite its compact size, the Toyota RAV4 has a surprisingly spacious interior that can accommodate up to five people. It offers a total passenger volume of 98.9 cubic feet, which is one of the largest in its segment. Up front, you and your front passengers can stretch out with 41 inches of legroom, 37.7 inches of headroom, 57.8 inches of shoulder room, and 54.3 inches of hip room.

Unlike many other small crossovers that have cramped back seats, this RAV4 can keep your rear passengers happy with 37.8 inches of legroom, 39.5 inches of headroom, 56.4 inches of shoulder room, and 47.7 inches of hip room. Even tall adults will feel comfortable back there.

Cargo Space

If you need to transport large items on a regular basis, the 2021 Toyota RAV4 is a great option. This crossover has 37.6 cubic feet of storage space behind the rear seats. If you opt for the XLE, XLE Premium, or Limited, storage is nearly the same, at 37.5 cubic feet. Regardless of trim level, you’ll get 69.8 cubic feet of cargo space if you fold down the rear seats. Few compact SUVs have a larger cargo area than the RAV4. Also, loading cargo into this crossover is a breeze, thanks to its low floor.

Comfort And Convenience

The seats in the Toyota RAV4 aren’t only roomy, but they’re also well-cushioned and extremely supportive. They’re specially designed to provide a relaxing ride even on long-distance trips. The base model of this SUV features cloth upholstery with SofTex-trimmed surfaces and a six-way power-adjustable driver’s seat with lumbar support.

For better comfort and convenience, you can choose a higher trim to open up a wide array of available features. These features include synthetic-leather upholstery, an eight-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, a memory driver’s seat, heated and ventilated front seats, heated rear outboard seats, a heated and leather-wrapped steering wheel, dual-zone automatic climate control, push-button start, proximity keyless entry, a panoramic moon-roof, and a 7-inch digital instrument cluster.

Tech Features

Another appealing aspect of the 2021 Toyota RAV4 is its generous list of infotainment features. This SUV is fitted with an advanced infotainment system that’s easy to use and responsive. The touch-screen display has an intuitive interface, crystal-clear graphics, and well-placed digital buttons. If you want to adjust audio and climate settings the old-fashioned way, you can use the physical knobs on the center stack, which are within easy reach of the driver.

Standard infotainment features in this Toyota SUV include a 7-inch touch-screen display, a USB port, a Wi-Fi hot spot, a six-speaker sound system, Bluetooth, satellite radio, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa. To upgrade your in-vehicle experience, opt for available features such as an 8-inch touch-screen display, four additional USB ports, an 11-speaker JBL audio system, navigation, and wireless device charging.

Driver-Assistance Systems

Other than basic safety features such as air bags and a LATCH system, the new Toyota RAV4 also comes with a great selection of driver-assistance technologies. These features monitor your driving behavior and surroundings and provide alerts or assistance when necessary to help you avoid accidents.

The RAV4 comes standard with automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, forward-collision alert, pedestrian monitoring, lane-departure alert, lane-tracing assistance, lane-keeping assistance, road-sign recognition, a rearview camera, and automatic high-beam headlamps. You won’t find so many standard active safety features in most other compact crossovers.

If you want to make your SUV even safer, you can get available features such as blind-spot detection, rain-sensing windshield wipers, rear cross-traffic warning, front and rear parking sensors, and a surround-view parking camera system.

Ride Experience

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 also features a well-tuned suspension that enables it to deliver a smooth and comfortable ride in most situations. This SUV does an excellent job of soaking up bumps, railroad tracks, and potholes, so you and your passengers will feel minimal jostling in the cabin. In addition, it shows impressive agility and body control when it’s negotiating acute corners and twisty roads, resulting in a steady and confident ride. The RAV4 is also quiet and serene on the inside as its body has been specially designed to reduce road and wind noises.

Besides having one of the best interiors in its class, the 2021 Toyota RAV4 also impresses in every other department, from performance to fuel efficiency. With its excellent reliability and generous basic and powertrain warranties, this SUV can help you save a lot on repair costs down the road. Overall, it offers better value for money than most of its rivals. If you’re wondering whether the Toyota RAV4 is the right SUV for you, don’t hesitate to stop by Panama City Toyota for a test drive. Contact us today to make an appointment. 

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Your brakes are arguably the most critical safety equipment on your Toyota. You should have your brake system inspected regularly. A typical brake inspection takes less than 30 minutes and will cover your brake pads, drums or rotors, brake pedal, calipers, pistons, master cylinder, brake lines, and yes, your brake fluid. 

With all the different parts that go into your brake system, the brake fluid makes it all work. Too little brake fluid affects your ability to stop. Corroded brake fluid will have the same detrimental effect. Water in your brake fluid has a negative impact as well. So how do you know when it’s time to change your brake fluid? Let’s take a closer look at your brakes and what you need to do to keep them working, including when to change your brake fluid.

How Do Brakes Work?

Image used with permission via toyota.com

Most people’s understanding of how their brakes work consists of pressing the brake pedal to make the car stop. But it’s a much more complex system than that. Your brakes are a series of parts, some mechanical and some hydraulic. When you press the brake pedal, this mechanical process activates the hydraulic element. 

Pressing the brake pedal pressurizes the brake fluid, pushing it through the brake lines to the calipers. The calipers squeeze the brake pads onto the rotors or drum sides to slow your vehicle. Your brake pads often wear out first, long before any other part of your brake system. It would be best to have your brake pads inspected once a year or every 2-3 oil changes. Your brake pads will last from 1-3 years, depending on factors like load, driving habits, and temperature.

Your brake fluid remains in a sealed system and theoretically could last many years. However, there are ways your brake fluid can become compromised. Water in your brake lines can do several nasty things. One, it lowers the brake fluid’s boiling point, and in a high-heat application like braking, this can reduce your stopping power. Brake fluid needs to have a high boiling point. Otherwise, it will vaporize. Once vaporized, the vapors are much more compressible than the brake fluid, lessening the hydraulic force you need and ultimately failing to stop your car.

Two, water corrodes metal, causing it to rust. Rust flakes and this flaking debris causes damage to the other parts through which it flows. If the lines feeding your brake calipers become clogged, you lose stopping power. Your brake system’s master cylinder can also clog, or worse, begin to rust. Replacing your brake fluid regularly will prevent these situations from occurring.

What Is Brake Fluid?

Brake fluids today are hydraulic fluids made from a glycol-ether base. Some brake fluids are hygroscopic, which in layman’s terms means they absorb moisture from the air. Glycol-based brake fluid will begin to absorb moisture when exposed to air. Even in a sealed system like your car’s brakes, water penetrates through microscopic pores found in rubber hoses, gaskets, and seals. Areas of excessive rainfall and high humidity often cause moisture problems in brake fluid.

Your brake fluid must maintain a consistent thickness, known as viscosity. The viscosity of your brake fluid must be constant in extreme temperatures. Newer vehicles with anti-lock brakes, stability control, and traction control systems are affected more by reduced viscosity because these systems have more ways for moisture to enter. Brake fluid manufacturers add corrosion inhibitors to counter water’s potential intrusion, but you shouldn’t rely on them.

How Do You Know Your Brake Fluid Need Replacing?

You can’t always tell simply by driving your car and pressing the brakes. However, when you press the brake pedal, you should feel consistent pressure. This pressure should feel the same when you start driving on a cold morning as when you’ve been driving for hours in the high summer heat. 

If your brake fluid’s compressibility has increased, you will notice more travel of your brake pedal when stopping. The force required of your caliper pistons and master cylinder to stop your car remains the same, but because the fluid’s compressibility is higher, you need more force which translates to more brake pedal travel. If you experience an increase in brake pedal travel, you should have your brakes inspected immediately. Because your brake system was engineered to be consistent, it’s much easier to detect a change. Your brake pedal should never travel to the floor, or bottom out. 

It would be best if you periodically had a qualified technician test your brake fluid for moisture, viscosity, and contaminants. Brake fluid should be light brown, beige, or even clear in some cars. You can open your brake fluid reservoir located on top of your brake system’s master cylinder to get a good look at your brake fluid. A murky brown color indicates old or corroded fluid, and you should have your brake fluid tested as soon as possible.

How Often Should You Change Your Brake Fluid?

No hard rule exists, per se. Most manufacturers recommend replacing your brake fluid between 20,000 and 40,000 miles, or every two years, although a few say never. Check your owner’s manual for your specific vehicle’s requirements. 

Testing for moisture and copper content in your brake fluid will give you a more accurate timeline. Copper corrodes faster than other metals. A simple test strip can tell you how much copper your brake fluid contains. When copper levels reach 200 parts-per-million, you should replace your brake fluid. When moisture levels reach 3.5% or higher, you should replace your brake fluid. Our technicians will test for moisture and copper when inspecting your brake system.

At Panama City Toyota, we understand the importance your brake system represents, to you, your family, and those around you. That’s why we include a brake inspection as part of our Express Maintenance service. Our factory-trained technicians are experts at testing and identifying problems with your brake system. You can schedule service online or give us a call. Our pit crew-inspired approach will have you in and out and back to your busy life in no time.

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If you’re in the market for a compact sedan or hatchback with great gas mileage, an impressive range of safety features, and styling options to make your car stand out, the 2021 Toyota Corolla could be just what you’re looking for. Whether you’d prefer to opt for the Corolla’s base trim or make a statement with the new and sporty Corolla Apex sedan, this compact car offers you plenty of options to choose from. Let’s take a look at some of its most important features.

Engine And Performance

Image via toyota.com

The 2021 Corolla is powered by a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine that’s capable of producing 139 horsepower. The base engine is paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), which ensures a smooth ride around town.

The Corolla’s larger engine offering is a 2.0-liter inline-four that generates 169 horsepower. It comes as standard in the Corolla’s hatchback models and in the higher sedan trims. If you choose a vehicle with the larger engine, you can opt to pair it with a CVT or a six-speed manual transmission.

Both engines make the Corolla a fuel-efficient vehicle. The smaller 1.8-liter engine is good for 30 mpg in the city and 38 mpg on the highway, while the larger 2.0-liter inline-four increases your gas mileage in the sedan to 31 mpg in the city and 40 mpg on the highway.

Toyota is also making the Corolla available this year as a hybrid vehicle. The hybrid includes two electric motors alongside the 1.8-liter engine. While the combined 121 horsepower this setup can generate may not strike you as remarkable, what does stand out is the Corolla hybrid’s gas mileage. At 53 mpg in the city and 52 mpg on the highway, the Corolla hybrid is right for you if efficiency is your top priority.

Interior And Infotainment

The Corolla has room for five people in both its sedan and hatchback versions. Front-seat passengers can enjoy over 42 inches of legroom, while the 34 inches available to second-row passengers is still reasonable for a compact car. Families will be happy to know that the two outer rear seats feature two sets of LATCH connectors for installing child seats.

The Corolla’s standard upholstery is cloth. You can choose from three colors for your interior styling: black, gray, or macadamia. For a touch more luxury, you can upgrade to synthetic leather upholstery and heated front seats in the higher trims.

When it comes to cargo storage, you’ll find 13.1 cubic feet of space in the trunk. If you’re planning on transporting more than just the weekly groceries, you can fold down the back row of seats to create some more space.

To keep your passengers entertained while you’re on the go, the Corolla is equipped with a 7-inch infotainment screen, a wireless hot spot, and six-speaker stereo as standard. Toyota’s Entune infotainment system also lets you display your phone on the screen thanks to Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. An 8-inch touch screen is available as an upgrade, along with wireless device charging and a 7-inch driver display. Finally, you can also upgrade to a premium stereo for a better listening experience.

Safety And Driver Assistance

The Toyota Safety Sense system contains a large number of useful features to help you stay safe whether you’re driving around town or taking to the highway. The Corolla’s forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking systems can help you respond rapidly to potential dangers, while standard pedestrian detection provides an additional layer of security. When you’re on the highway, adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, and lane departure warning are sure to come in handy.

You can choose to add additional safety features, including blind spot monitoring and a rear cross traffic alert. To give you a bit of extra help when you’re behind the wheel, you can also add a navigation system.

Corolla Trims

The Corolla sedan is sold in five trim levels for 2021: the L, LE, SE, XLE, and XSE. If you’d rather have the hatchback, you can choose between the SE and XSE trims.

With a starting retail price of $19,825, the base L trim is equipped with plenty of convenient features, including Bluetooth connectivity, two USB ports, and satellite radio. Moving up to the LE trim gets you remote keyless entry and automatic climate control for more comfort once you’re inside. In addition, the LE features an additional USB port and the larger 8-inch infotainment touch screen.

If you’d like a more sporty ride, the SE trim could be for you. It’s equipped with the larger 2.0-liter engine for some extra power and features front sports seats and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. The SE trim is also available in the Nightshade edition for those of you who enjoy some unique styling, including black wheels and grille. The SE Apex, which Toyota is only selling in limited numbers, is aimed at drivers looking for a higher-performance ride. It features tuned-up suspension and a more aggressive-looking front end.

Step up to the XLE trim and you can take advantage of some extra comfort in the cabin. That’s thanks to leather upholstery, a power adjustable driver’s seat, and heated front seats. On top of that, don’t forget to check out the moonroof and the 7-inch driver display, which allows you to keep an eye on your Corolla’s performance while you’re on the road. The XLE is powered by the 1.8-liter engine. If you’d rather combine the XLE’s luxury interior with the more powerful 2.0-liter engine, try upgrading to the range-topping XSE trim, which offers just that.

So, now you know a little more about the 2021 Corolla. We hope we’ve been able to answer your questions about this excellent compact car. But if you’d like to learn more, we’re here to help. Contact our auto sales team at Panama City Toyota today to experience our professional service and friendl

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If you’re looking for a stylish midsize three-row SUV, the 2021 Toyota Highlander should be at the top of your list. Offered in L, LE, XLE, XSE, Limited, and Platinum trim levels, the Highlander presents an upscale, spacious, and versatile interior with state-of-the-art technology.

Versatile Passenger And Cargo Capacity

Image via Toyota Pressroom

The 2021 Toyota Highlander, as can be seen at Panama City Toyota, seats up to eight people when equipped with the second-row bench seat, or seven with the available second-row captain’s chairs. The Highlander’s refined V-6 engine and compliant suspension ensure a smooth, comfortable, and quiet ride, making even the longest journeys a pleasure.

With a full passenger load you get 16 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third-row seats to stow all your gear. Folding the third row flat gives you 48.4 cubic feet of storage. When you’ve got more gear than people, you can fold the second-row seats flat for a massive 84.3-cubic-foot cargo area. Six cargo tie-down hooks ensure that your load stays in place. Limited and Platinum models feature a hands-free power tailgate for convenient access to your cargo when you’ve got your hands full. If you need to haul even bigger loads, the Highlander can tow a trailer of up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped.

Ensuring there’s a place for everything, the Highlander has clever storage solutions, including a soft-touch in-dash split-level shelf, a 15-liter soft-touch roll-top center console with a removable utility tray, and an overhead console with sunglasses storage. To keep beverages safely stowed, you have eight cup holders and four bottle holders located throughout the cabin.

Modern Sophisticated Cabin

Inside the L trim, you’ll find premium fabric upholstery with an eight-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, a four-way manually adjustable passenger seat, a 60/40 split, sliding, and reclining second-row bench, and a 60/40-split reclining third row.  The three-zone automatic climate control features a separate second-row control panel and second-and third-row vents to ensure a comfortable temperature for passengers in all three rows.

Interior features include a tilting and telescoping steering column, a conversation mirror, two 12-volt power outlets, auto up and down power windows with jam protection, and power door locks with a shift-linked automatic lock and unlock safety feature. A 4.2-inch color multi-information display in the instrument cluster provides details such as fuel economy, average speed, cruising range, a cruise control guide, and telephone information. The steering wheel has illuminated controls for the multi-information display, audio, Bluetooth hands-free phone, voice command, dynamic radar cruise control, lane departure alert, and lane steering assist.

LE models add a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, while the XLE offers a touch of extra luxury with chrome door handles, simulated leather upholstery, a 10-way power driver’s seat, a four-way power-adjustable front passenger seat, and second-row fold-down captain’s chairs with foldable inboard armrests. You also get a 7-inch multi-information display, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, second-row sunshades, and a center console with Qi-compatible wireless smartphone charging.

The all-new sporty XSE trim features an exclusive two-tone interior and subtle ambient lighting. This model also offers the option of a red and black leather-trimmed interior and red accent stitching across the instrument panel. Stepping up to the Limited trim gets you luxurious leather front and second-row seats, driver’s seat memory, heated and ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel, ornamental dash trim, faux wood door trim, and stylish metal front doorsill scuff plates. 

For charging and powering up your gadgets, you have a center console-mounted 120-volt power outlet, while for added security, a cargo area tonneau cover hides your gear from prying eyes. The top-of-the-range Platinum trim adds upscale features such as heated second-row seats.

Connectivity And Entertainment Technology

Image via Toyota Pressroom

For keeping you and your passengers connected and entertained on the road, the Highlander features the latest audio and multimedia technology. The infotainment system includes Amazon Alexa compatibility, Bluetooth wireless technology for audio streaming and hands-free phone capability, and five USB ports. Control of the system is via the 8-inch touch screen which also shows images from the integrated backup camera with projected path.

The standard Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility seamlessly connects your smartphone to the multimedia system so you can make calls, send and receive messages, get directions, and listen to your music. With Wi-Fi Connect enabled, your Highlander becomes a Wi-Fi hot spot with 4G connectivity. Up to five devices can be connected to enable you to access your favorite apps. With the six-speaker sound system, you get SiriusXM satellite radio that offers a wide range of entertainment with over 200 channels to choose from. 

Limited models add an integrated dynamic navigation system, an integrated rearview camera with dynamic grid lines, and a premium 1200-watt JBL audio system with Clari-Fi. With its 11 speakers and surround sound, you’ll experience phenomenal concert hall-quality sound. You also get Driver Easy Speak which uses a microphone in the overhead console to amplify the driver’s voice and broadcast it through the rear speakers.

The Platinum trim offers a digital rearview mirror and a 10-inch head-up display that includes a speedometer, road sign assist, navigation, and on the hybrid model, the hybrid system indicator. It also has a 12.3-inch touch screen and a bird’s eye view camera with dynamic grid lines that includes a perimeter scan, a curb view, and a 360-degree overhead view in low-speed drive and reverse.

Driver Assistance Technology

The Highlander comes standard with the Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+ suite of driver assistance technologies to help keep your family safe. It includes full-speed range adaptive cruise control, lane tracing assist, lane departure alert with steering assist, a pre-collision system with low-light pedestrian detection, road sign assist, and automatic high beams. 

The Star Safety System features enhanced vehicle stability control, traction control, an anti-lock braking system, electronic brake-force distribution, brake assist, and smart stop technology. Safety Connect is also standard and offers automatic collision notification, emergency assistance, enhanced roadside assistance, and a stolen vehicle locator.

For a closer look at all of the striking features of the 2021 Highlander, contact Panama City Toyota today to arrange a test drive.

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Whether you’re looking for a work truck or a truck to haul your toys to the weekend getaway destination, Toyota has two great trucks to choose from in the 2021 lineup. If you’re looking to add a truck to your garage, definitely check out these options from Toyota. You may want to consider your primary use for your future truck as you compare towing capacity, interior space, and power. Panama City Toyota invites you to take a look at the 2021 Toyota Tacoma vs. the 2021 Toyota Tundra.

Available Trims

Image via Flickr under CC BY 2.0 by Jacob Frey 4A

Both the Tacoma and the Tundra have a boxy, beefy exterior that screams “truck” and appeals to drivers everywhere. While the Tacoma tends to give off a rugged and sporty feel, the Tundra emits a high-end, luxurious feel. The Tacoma rolls in on either 16-inch, 17-inch, or 18-inch wheels, depending on the trim level. Tundra starts off with 18-inch wheels with 20-inch wheels available on several trims.

The 2021 Toyota Tacoma is available in six different trim levels, the SR, SR5, TRD Sport, TRD Off-Road, Limited, and TRD Pro. Standard rear-wheel drive is found on most trims, with an available option of part-time four-wheel drive on some trims. You can get the Tacoma in a regular cab, Access Cab (extended cab), or Double Cab (crew cab) and in either a 5-foot or 6.1-foot bed option.

You can get the 2021 Toyota Tundra in six trim levels as well. These trims are the SR, SR5, Limited, Platinum, 1794 Edition, and TRD Pro. Optional four-wheel drive is available over the standard rear-wheel drive on all trims. The Tundra is also available as a regular cab, Access Cab, or Double Cab, but with three bed sizes available, depending on trim. Options for bed length include 5.5-foot, 6.5-foot, and 8.1-foot.

Interior Features

Tacoma’s base model has a 7-inch touch screen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto to keep your passengers entertained along the way. It also offers three USB ports and a Wi-Fi hot spot as standard features. You can upgrade to an 8-inch touch screen and add a leather-wrapped steering wheel, wireless charging pad, a sunroof, leather upholstery, and a JBL audio system complete with navigation as you move up in trim levels. You can also add several packages to the Tacoma starting with the SR5, including a Technology package and a Dynamic Navigation package.

You get the same 7-inch touch screen infotainment system connected to Apple CarPlay and Android Auto in the base model of the Tundra.  Move up to the Limited and beyond in order to add dual-zone automatic climate control, leather-trimmed seats, heated front seats, the upgraded JBL audio system with navigation, and black leather seating. You can add packages starting with the SR5 again, such as the Premium Audio with Navigation that adds a USB media port and two USB charging ports.

Fuel-Efficiency And Performance

If you’re looking for a vehicle that gives you more time on the road, then the 2021 Tacoma would be your pick. The Tacoma has two engine options, depending on trim level, each paired with a six-speed transmission. The automatic transmission is standard with a six-speed manual transmission available on several trims. The standard 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine provides you with 159 horsepower and 180 pound-feet of torque. When you upgrade to the available 3.5-liter V-6 option, it delivers 278 horsepower and 265 pound-feet of torque.

In comparison, the only engine option is a 5.7-liter V-8 paired with a six-speed automatic transmission on the Tundra gets you 381 horsepower and 401 pound-feet of torque. If you’re looking for a little more power, then the Tundra is the right choice for you.

Towing Capacity

When it comes to hauling a work trailer, camper, boat, or even heavy-duty machinery to a job site, you need to have enough power to make it happen. Here’s where the 2021 Tundra stands out. The Tundra can tow up to 10,200 pounds when properly equipped, thanks to the integrated tow hitch and TripleTech frame. The standard Tacoma can tow up to 3,500 pounds in comparison. If you add the Towing Package to the Tacoma, the towing capacity moves up to 6,800 pounds.

Safety Features

Toyota knows how important it is to get you to your destination safely, and they offer safety and driver-assistance features to help make that happen. Standard on both trucks and all trims are safety features such as vehicle stability control, anti-lock brake system, electronic brake-force distribution, smart stop technology, and brake assist. The Toyota Safety Sense P (TSS-P) includes forward collision mitigation, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control, all standard. These along with the strong frame and advanced air bag system help keep you better protected on the road.

The Dynamic Navigation package on the Tacoma adds rear parking sensors and the Technology package adds a blind-spot monitor. Starting with the Tacoma TRD Sport, you can add the Advanced Technology package that offers a 360-degree camera system. You can get front- and side-view cameras added to the TRD Off-Road. The Limited includes blind-spot monitor, rear parking sensors, and the 360-degree camera as standard features. With the TRD Pro, you get the Multi-Terrain monitor that includes both front-and side-view cameras and a blind-spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alert as standard features.

Tundra starts with the same basic standard safety features as the Tacoma, but at the base model it adds automatic high beams. Adding the Convenience package to the Tundra will get you a blind-spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alert.

In the end, both of these trucks are a great choice for your next vehicle. The decision to make is whether you want more fuel efficiency or power and towing capacity. If you’d like to see either of these two in person, contact us at Panama City Toyota to talk to one of our friendly, knowledgeable team members. They’d be happy to answer any questions you may have, give you a tour of our showroom, and even get you set up for a test drive. 

Panama City Toyota

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Hybrid and electric vehicles are becoming increasingly popular as drivers recognize the many advantages they bring. From excellent fuel efficiency to a comfortable and environmentally friendly ride, Toyota’s range of hybrids for 2021 have a lot to offer. Let’s take a look at some of the advantages you can enjoy if you purchase a hybrid Toyota.

Tremendous Fuel Economy

Image via Flickr under CC BY 2.0 by Rutger van der Maar

One of the biggest benefits you’ll get from a hybrid vehicle is much better gas mileage. While a traditional gas-powered vehicle stands out if its gas mileage is between 35 and 40 mpg, most of Toyota’s 2021 lineup of hybrids can manage more than 40 mpg combined.

The Prius Prime tops the list for fuel efficiency with its impressive 54 mpg combined for city and highway driving. The Prius Prime can also drive for up to 25 miles solely on electric power. You can recharge your battery in about five hours if you use a 120-volt power outlet, or just over two hours with a 240-volt socket.

The Toyota Avalon Prime’s battery is even bigger than the Prius Prime’s. You’ll be able to drive for 42 miles on electric-only power in the Avalon Prime. Fuel economy is still strong at a combined 44 mpg.

Powerful Engines

One of the misconceptions about hybrid and electric cars is that they lack power. But you only need to take a look at Toyota’s 2021 hybrid lineup to see how wrong this is.

The RAV4 Prime is equipped with two electric motors and a 2.5-liter inline-four that can generate 302 horsepower. That’s enough power to shift this small SUV from 0 to 60 in around 5.7 seconds, which is faster than many gas-powered vehicles.

The five-seater Avalon Prime features a 2.5-liter V-4 engine with two electric motors that produce a combined 215 horsepower. The Avalon’s power train is paired with a continuous variable transmission to give you a smooth ride, and ensure a seamless transition between electric and gas power.

Even the Prius Prime, which has the smallest engine of Toyota’s hybrids, generates 121 horsepower from its 1.8-liter V-4 engine and two electric motors. The Prius Prime also gets a continuous variable transmission.

Affordable Options

If you’re shopping for a vehicle on a modest budget, there’s no reason to be put off of a Toyota hybrid due to the price tag. While vehicles with all-electric driving capabilities like the Prius Prime and RAV4 Prime cost a bit more, the RAV4 Hybrid and Prius provide you with cheaper alternatives. Take a look at the RAV4 Hybrid with a starting price of just over $28,000, which makes it competitive with many non-hybrid SUVs.

Even though you won’t have the benefit of all-electric driving in the RAV4 Hybrid or Prius, you can still take advantage of some excellent fuel economy. For example, the Prius manages a combined 52 MPG, while the RAV4 Hybrid is good for 41 mpg in the city and 38 mpg on the highway.

Comfortable Interiors And Exciting Infotainment

The Prius Prime features seating for five, with plenty of room in the front and rear rows for tall passengers. Child seating is also well catered for with two complete sets of LATCH connectors on the outside rear seats and a tether anchor for the middle seat. When it comes to cargo storage, you’ll find over 19 cubic feet of space behind the second row, which is good for the hybrid and electric vehicle class. If you think you’ll need more space, try the Toyota Prius instead of the Prius Prime. The Prius has over 27 cubic feet of space behind the second row.

The Prius Prime’s standard infotainment system includes a 7-inch screen, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a six-speaker audio system. You can upgrade to a larger 11.6-inch screen and wireless device charging for a little more convenience.

The RAV4 Prime gives you the extra cabin and cargo space you’d expect from any SUV. With 33.5 cubic feet of space behind the second row and over 63 cubic feet with the second row folded down, you’ll have lots of room to transport your weekly groceries or larger items. The RAV4 Prime’s seating is comfortable for adults wherever they’re sitting, and you can even upgrade to synthetic leather upholstery if you want to add a touch more luxury.

The RAV4 Prime’s infotainment system includes an 8-inch screen, five USB ports, a six-speaker stereo, and wireless hotspot. Optional upgrades include a 9-inch screen and an 11-speaker premium stereo.

The compact Avalon Hybrid has 16 cubic feet of storage and comfortable seating for up to five passengers. First-row passengers get either synthetic leather or genuine leather upholstery, which adds to the cabin’s luxury feel. In the rear row, you can install child seating using LATCH connectors on the outer seats. As for infotainment, the base system includes a large 9-inch screen, eight-speaker stereo system, and a wireless hotspot.

Strong Safety Features

All of Toyota’s hybrid vehicles have a great selection of standard and optional safety features to give you added peace of mind while you’re behind the wheel. Standard features throughout the lineup include forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control.

There are also additional add-ons for extra safety. For example, the three-row Highlander Hybrid features a 360-degree parking camera system and a parallel park assist to help you maneuver this mid-sized SUV into a tight parking spot.

We hope our rundown of the great advantages open to owners of a 2021 Toyota hybrid vehicle has helped you in your search for a new car. Were we able to deal with all of your questions or concerns? Is there anything about any of Toyota’s hybrid options you’d like to learn more about? If so, don’t hesitate to get in contact with our team of auto experts today. Here at Panama City Toyota, we can’t wait to get you behind the wheel of one of our excellent hybrid cars or SUVs.

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