Buying a New Family Vehicle in 2022? Here’s How You Can Land the Ideal Model!

January 13, 2022 · 9 min read

It's a new year, and you're thinking now is the time to invest in a new vehicle for your family. If you've ever bought a car before, you understand how difficult and stressful it can be. You must consider affordability, reliability, engine power, the sound system, and many other factors. When you have family, you have to think about their needs, which makes car buying all the more challenging. Along with ensuring everyone can ride comfortably in the vehicle, you have to prioritize safety, durability, and entertainment features (for the kiddos, of course). The good news is that Toyota offers more family-friendly options than any other automaker. Below, Mount Airy Toyota goes through some of the brand's top family vehicles and gives you seven tips for how to get your dream car!

Top Toyota Models for Families

Each of these Toyota models will keep adults and kids alike safe and happy on the road. Consider the details to determine the best one for your family!Toyota Sienna The Toyota Sienna is a minivan, but it has the vibe of an SUV. This van blends in with the automaker's SUVs via a flat hood, roof rack, and well-pronounced body sides. The Sienna comes with a hybrid powertrain, which provides above-average fuel economy. 2022 sees the new Woodland Edition, which comes with standard all-wheel drive, a 0.6-inch lift kit, and many accessories to add convenience.Toyota HighlanderWhen it comes to mid-size SUVs, it's hard to find something more attractive, comfortable, and practical than the Toyota Highlander. This vehicle offers tons of features and various configurations, making it one of the most versatile three-row SUVs in its class. The Hybrid Bronze Edition is new for 2022 and comes in either Wind Chill Pearl or Cement exterior paint. It features 18-inch bronze wheels and many other bronze design elements. Toyota VenzaAfter a lengthy hiatus, Toyota brought back the Venza in 2021. This compact hybrid crossover will comfortably seat five people and comes standard with all-wheel drive. Aside from its sleek appeal, the Venza shines in its superb fuel economy and quiet demeanor. If you find the 4Runner and RAV4 a little hard-edged, you will appreciate the softly rounded and shapely body of the Venza. It also provides a luxurious cabin with premium materials.

Toyota Camry The 2022 Toyota Camry is much more performance-based and boldly styled than its predecessors, but it remains one of the most family-family sedans on the market. It comes with a range of powertrain options so that drivers can choose the setup that meets their needs. Toyota slightly modified the exterior paint options for the Camry for 2022; now, non-TRD grades are available in Edge White. Additionally, Camry Hybrid buyers can now add the Nightshade appearance package.Toyota RAV4The Toyota RAV4 is one of—if not the—most efficient and practical compact SUVs in its segment. And its resale value is unmatched. If you have a smaller family looking for adventure, this could be the vehicle for you. The 2022 model year sees minor updates, such as restyled headlights and the new Calvary Blue exterior color. XLE, Premium, Limited, Adventure, and TRD Off-Road grades now come with standard LED fog lamps. Toyota SequoiaAs Toyota's largest SUV, the three-row Sequoia is built on the same frame as the Toyota Tundra. It provides stronger acceleration than many of its rivals and an impressive list of standard driver-assistance technologies. This is an excellent vehicle if you want lots of space for seating and cargo without going up to a minivan.

7 Practical Steps to Acquiring Your Dream Car

Many of us hope to drive our dream car someday. If you think now is the time to pursue the vehicle your family has been longing for, there are things you can do to help you realize your dream.Even if you are not ready financially to purchase a new car, it doesn't mean you have to wait years before acquiring one. Much of it comes down to establishing a realistic goal, creating a budget, saving money, and exploring all of your options. Here are seven steps to help you prepare: 1. Set a Goal When trying to determine how to buy a new vehicle, your first and most crucial step will be to choose the specific model you want. That model will be your goal, and it must be a clearly defined goal if you are to obtain it. 2022 Toyota Highlander

And when we say model, we mean the grade, features, and other specifics. You must have a set-in-stone price to shoot for so that you can make your plan around it. For example, the base 2022 Toyota Highlander L starts at $35,205, while the Platinum grade starts at $47,560. And if you add packages and features, it will increase the price more.Don't be unrealistic about the amount you will be willing to spend, or you may set yourself up for failure. Consider every detail about your dream vehicle, and be realistic about your investment. All new vehicles lose value over time (unless vintage or antique), so factor in depreciation as you set your goal. 2. Create a Budget Once you have decided on a specific model and grade, it's time to create a budget that will direct your steps. Consider your monthly income, expenses, and how much you are willing to put aside for a new vehicle. As you develop your budget, don't leave out maintenance, fuel, insurance, and other expenses. Ideally, you will leave a little padding in your budget for these costs before purchasing the vehicle. Once you have written out a budget that will help you achieve your goal and account for your other bills and life necessities, you will need to stick to it like glue. This will require you to practice self-discipline but will likely get easier once you get into the rhythm of saving money.3. Cut Expenses One practical way to attain your dream car faster is to find expenses in your budget that you can cut. Of course, you will not want to compromise your family's health, safety, and quality of life. But you might be surprised by how you can live comfortably while eliminating specific costs.Also, adopt a different mindset and attitude towards spending. For example, before you make a non-essential purchase, ask yourself if you could better use the money toward your car budget. And when you're shopping for groceries, electronics, or any other types of products, put extra effort into comparing prices at various retailers.4. Open a Savings Account Many families benefit from keeping a glass jar to save money because it allows you to see the money you're saving, which can motivate you to stay focused on your goals. However, it requires you only to save cash. Besides the jar, the bank is still a safe place to store your funds. Open a savings account at your local bank so that you can efficiently allocate money from your paychecks, transfers, and other methods. See if any account options will earn you high interest, and think about opening a passbook account that makes it more difficult to withdraw funds.

Note that even if you already have a savings account, you can benefit from opening a separate one for your vehicle budget.

5. Start Investing If you already have a certain amount of money on loan, but it isn't enough to land your new vehicle, consider investing a portion of it as you carry out your budget. There are many ways to invest 10% to 20% of loaned money and receive a healthy ROI. You just want to ensure the ROI will be more than what you pay each month for the loan and interest. Investing can expand your horizons and multiply your money. If you play your cards right, you may even have more money than you hope for when it comes time to purchase your new car. 6. Finance Your New Vehicle If you wish to buy a vehicle before having all the money saved up, you might consider financing. Mount Airy Toyota offers financing to rival any dealership in the industry. And we will go out of our way to make the process as painless as possible for you! Moreover, we always have a range of exceptional deals on our models to help you save on the final price. Other financing options (e.g., bank loans, pay-day loans, car title loans, etc.) are worth exploring. Know, however, that these modes often provide a fraction of the funds necessary for a vehicle purchase. And if you commit to a loan with a higher amount, you could pay high monthly interest, meaning you would need to ensure that it would not put your family in a precarious financial situation.7. Lease Your New Vehicle While owning a vehicle may be your dream, leasing could allow you to get one sooner. Not only does leasing come with lower monthly payments, but you don't have to worry about repair costs, and you will save money on maintenance. Another perk of leasing a new vehicle is that you will be guaranteed to have the most up-to-date features because cars typically do not lease for longer than three years. And if you use the vehicle for your business, you may be able to deduct the entire lease payment from your taxes. You can also save money if you don't have a business because most states tax you on the "usage" portion of a lease rather than the total price of the vehicle.Furthermore, dealers will lease some models with no money down. Even if there are upfront fees, they can typically be included in your monthly payment. On the other hand, most new vehicle purchases require you to make a 20% down payment to obtain a car loan with favorable rates.If you are interested in leasing a vehicle, we can quickly set you up at Mount Airy Toyota!

Don't Forget Maintenance

As previously mentioned, it's critical to account for the costs of maintenance, insurance, repairs, and other expenses when buying a new vehicle. Many buyers opt for a used car because they think it will save them money. While this turns out to be accurate at times, it can end up costing you much more in car maintenance over the long haul if you get a lemon.

Remember that you must pay for fuel, oil changes, and other recurring costs.

And if you run into significant problems with your engine, transmission, or other critical components, your maintenance costs can stack up fast. Many factors play into the cost of car ownership, including brand, geographic location, miles driven, and quality of repairs. Each year, AAA reports the cost of ownership for each type of new vehicle driven 15,000 miles. Here are the most recent numbers broken down by category:• Small Sedan — $7,114• Hybrid— $7,736• Electric — $8,320• Small SUV — $8,394• Medium Sedan — $8,643• Minivan — $10,036• Medium SUV — $10,265• Large Sedan — $10,403• Pickup— $10,839

Conclusion

If you are inspired to get a new vehicle for your family, you have plenty of Toyota models to choose from. Consider the models above as you seek the ideal car for your family's needs and wants. And keep the above tips in mind for setting a goal, setting a budget, saving money, and investing.Moreover, don't count out the prospect of financing or leasing your new vehicle. If you want more information, browse our wide selection of Toyota models, or learn about our financing and leasing opportunities, contact Mount Airy Toyota today!

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Jan 29, 2024 in Sienna

Minivans are the sexy new car of 2024, and the Toyota Sienna is the one to buy!

Minivans are the sexy new car of 2024, and the Toyota Sienna is the one to buy! With the emergence of the SUV, many thought the days of the minivan were numbered. But the family van has proven itself true in the midst of the continual surge of sport utility vehicles and crossovers and has done so by finding the perks that make life easier when toting around children and friends (automatic sliding doors for one!) Toyota is all about making driving easier and more enjoyable. Among the many options of minivans out there today, Toyota has taken big strides in creating a modern, sexy driver…and it happens to be a minivan. One important aspect of the new Toyota Sienna minivan, one that sets it apart from the others in its class, is that all new models come as hybrid only. Since there has been so much success with hybrid vehicles–especially Toyota hybrids–they figured why not? And it’s doubtful anyone will disagree with them for this, especially since Toyota has also expanded its hybrid warranty. Now, any Sienna model from 2020 forward will receive a 10-year battery warranty from first use or 150,000 miles, whichever comes first. Going from an 8-year warranty or 100,000 miles to this is a bold move. A sign of confidence in the power, performance, and longevity of Toyota’s hybrid battery. The Sienna is also one of the only minivans to come in all-wheel-drive, which is a pretty distinguishing factor if you think about it. Why wouldn’t you want the option for an all-wheel-drive minivan? Imagine getting stuck on an icy driveway or a muddy, washed-out road—with kids in tow! The Toyota Sienna is truly a game-changer for minivan drivers mostly because it doesn’t feel or drive, or even look, like a traditional family van. The Sienna is sporty, cool, and futuristic. Something fun everyone. Impressive Features The all-new, 2024 Toyota Sienna comes packed with all the modern, useful features. This gallery of goods is best experienced, but you can get the gist of how impressive these are in the descriptions that follow: Hands-Free Power Sliding Side Doors and Liftgate. Whether it's a kid or a pet or groceries, there always seems to be someone or something keeping you from being able to open or shut a sliding door to the van. Automatic sliding doors have been around for a little while now, so not too impressive there–but, did you know the Sienna has motion-activated auto doors? Simply wave your foot or give a low air-kick and the door will open. You can even close it the same way. Now, that’s impressive. Front and Rear Parking Assist with Automatic Braking. When parking is tight and you need a little assistance, allow the Sienna’s Parking Assistant to help by providing you with both audio and visual notifications. Don’t let the pressure of parking keep you from perfect symmetry. Let the Sienna do its thing (it also uses auto braking in case there is something behind you that you can’t see. They thought of everything.) Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert. The 2024 Sienna comes with blind spot monitoring, a standard among newer vehicles these days, as it alerts you to when a car is approaching from the next lane. What the new Sienna has in addition to this safety feature is a rear cross-traffic alert, which alerts you of any vehicles approaching when you are in reverse. Four-Zone Climate Control. When inside a van full of people, some like it hot while others like it cool–then there’s that one in the back who can never be satisfied. Using the Sienna’s four-zone climate control allows passengers to control their own air by setting a temp to his or her liking. Toyota knows how to keep everyone happy, even grumpy pants in the back seat. Remote Connect. Using your phone, you can control certain aspects of your new Sienna. Start and stop the engine; lock or unlock the doors; you can even monitor the vehicle’s overall status through a free app. This is a great way to keep up with the health of the van so you never have to worry about an unwanted surprise. WI-FI Connect. Your vehicle can now easily turn into an internet hotspot. By enabling WI-FI Connect, 4G internet pops up, ready to use. A total of 5 devices can use the internet while you drive down the road without any lag time. On longer road trips, this is a great way to save phone plan data and battery power, and all it takes is the flip of a switch. Android Auto Compatibility. Every new Sienna comes with the Android Auto suite, which allows you to display your phone’s apps on the touchscreen display. This means you can play your favorite songs, receive driving directions, and make calls and texts all with simple voice commands so you never have to take your eyes off the road. As far as driving performance goes, the new Sienna wins again. No matter the trim level you choose, each is powered by the same 245-horsepower 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine—in conjunction with a 5-speed automatic transmission and electronic power steering. And though the new Sienna does come with a powerful V-4, its gas mileage is still at an impressive 36mpg city and 36mpg highway. This is thanks to that hefty hybrid battery. Besides the all-wheel-drive capability and high-level driving performance, the Sienna has something else to offer: extra space. Inside the cabin, there is plenty of storage with a double glove box, a wide tailgate (for easy loading of bulky or awkwardly shaped objects), and a flat and low floor, which makes it easy for children to enter and exit. Most impressive, and most beneficial to those scenic road trips, is the quality of the interior. The new Sienna contains larger display screens, making navigation and interaction with the vehicle even easier than before. The wide sweeping dash allows for optimal room for all passengers—including the driver. And there are three rows of seating and separate climate controls ensuring comfort for even the most difficult to please. There is even the option for fine leather upholstery throughout, making this van as luxurious as possible. The key to enjoying the open road begins with the vehicle. It must keep everyone comfortable and happy for sometimes hours on end—especially if you get turned around and a bit lost. The Sienna is one of the best and innovative minivans out today. The 2024 lineup has a sharp look with LED lights and a modern front grille design. It sits atop a finely tuned suspension made for hauling and pulling, and easy riding. There is a newer, sexier generation of minivans on the market these days, and the 2024 Sienna is leading the charge. Don’t waste your time looking at anything else when the best is right here. Come visit us at Mount Airy Toyota today and see the impressive features of America’s favorite minivan firsthand.

Toyota RAV4 - America’s favorite SUV for its stylish looks, resale value, fantastic features, solid performance, unmatched reliability, eco-friendly fuel economy.

Aug 01, 2024 in Auto News by Mount Airy Toyota

Why the Toyota RAV4 Rules America - It's America’s Favorite SUV

If you've been on the road lately, chances are you've seen a Toyota RAV4 zipping past or parked in every other driveway. Have you ever wondered why this compact SUV is everywhere? It's not just a coincidence—the Toyota RAV4 has become America's best-selling SUV for many reasons. From its sleek design and impressive fuel efficiency to its reliable performance and family-friendly features, the RAV4 has something for everyone. Below, Mount Airy Toyota explains why this powerhouse on wheels has captured the hearts (and garages) of so many drivers nationwide. History Rundown of the Toyota RAV4 The Toyota RAV4, short for "Recreational Activity Vehicle: 4-Wheel Drive," debuted in 1994 and revolutionized the automotive market by pioneering the compact crossover SUV segment. The innovative vehicle was designed to combine the benefits of an SUV (e.g., higher visibility, increased cargo capacity, off-road capability) with a car’s fuel efficiency and handling. The first-generation RAV4 launched in Japan and Europe before making its way to North America in 1996; it was an instant hit. It featured a unibody construction, a front-wheel-drive layout (with optional all-wheel drive), and a modest yet efficient 2.0-liter engine. This combination appealed to a wide range of consumers, from urban dwellers looking for practicality to outdoor enthusiasts needing a versatile ride. As the RAV4 evolved, Toyota continued to innovate. The second generation came out in 2000 with a larger body and more powerful engine options. By the time the third generation emerged in 2005, the RAV4 had grown in size and offered a third-row seat option, which made it even more family-friendly. The fourth generation, which appeared in 2013, marked a significant shift in design and technology. It showcased a sleeker aesthetic, better safety features, and enhanced fuel efficiency. The introduction of the RAV4 Hybrid in 2016 catered to the growing demand for eco-friendly vehicles, solidifying its position as a market leader. The fifth and current generation, launched in 2018, takes the RAV4's legacy to new heights. It boasts a rugged design inspired by Toyota’s off-road heritage, advanced tech features, and a suite of driver-assistance systems. The RAV4 Prime is a plug-in hybrid variant demonstrating Toyota’s commitment to sustainability and innovation. From its inception to its current status as a best-seller, the Toyota RAV4 has relentlessly adapted to consumer needs and market trends. By all appearances, it will remain a beloved choice for drivers across the globe—for many years to come. Flawless Design, Features for Days The Toyota RAV4 perfectly blends style, comfort, and technology, making it a top choice for a wide range of drivers. Let’s break down what makes the RAV4’s design and features so compelling: Exterior Design Sleek and Modern: The RAV4’s exterior design harmonizes ruggedness and sophistication. Its bold front grille, sharp LED headlights, and sculpted body lines give it a dynamic, unmistakable presence on the road. Rugged Appeal: The RAV4 Adventure and TRD Off-Road models offer higher ground clearance, all-terrain tires, and unique styling cues that distinguish them from the rest of the lineup. Versatility: The RAV4’s design is not just about looks. Features like roof rails and an available hands-free power liftgate make it easy to load up for a family trip, a weekend getaway, or any other journey. Interior Comfort Spacious Cabin: Inside, the RAV4 offers ample space for passengers and cargo. Generous legroom and headroom allow five to sit comfortably, so it’s ideal for families and carpoolers. Premium Materials: Toyota has upped the ante with high-quality materials and finishes. Options like SofTex-trimmed seats and a panoramic moonroof add a touch of luxury. User-Friendly Technology: The RAV4 is packed with tech features that enhance the overall driving experience. Among other things, the standard Entune 3.0 system includes a 7-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa compatibility. Safety Features Toyota Safety Sense 2.0: Standard across all trims, this suite of advanced safety features includes the Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist, and Dynamic Radar Cruise Control. Blind Spot Monitoring: This feature is available on higher trims and helps drivers stay aware of their surroundings; it reduces the risk of collisions when changing lanes. Rear Cross-Traffic Alert: This handy feature enhances overall safety by alerting drivers to approaching vehicles when backing out of parking spaces. The RAV4’s design and features transcend aesthetics and comfort—they yield a versatile, safe, and enjoyable driving experience. The SUV is designed to meet needs and exceed expectations, whether you’re navigating city streets or exploring off-the-beaten-path trails. Check out our inventory of new RAV4 models at Mount Airy Toyota! A Reliable Performer Performance and reliability are two areas where the RAV4 genuinely shines. Here’s why: Engine Options and Performance Specs The RAV4 offers a variety of engine choices to suit different driving preferences. The standard gas engine is a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder that delivers a solid 203 horsepower, providing plenty of get-up-and-go for everyday driving. It’s responsive and smooth, making your daily commute or weekend road trips a breeze. For those looking to go green, the RAV4 Hybrid matches the same 2.5-liter engine with an electric motor for a combined 219 horsepower. It’s not just about power, though—the hybrid offers impressive fuel efficiency, which means fewer stops at the gas station. The plug-in hybrid variant (RAV4 Prime) is a game-changer; a whopping 302 horsepower makes it the most powerful RAV4 ever. Plus, it offers up to 42 miles of electric-only driving range and is ideal for short commutes and errands around town. Fuel Economy Fuel efficiency is one of the most important factors for drivers these days, and the RAV4 doesn’t disappoint. The standard RAV4 gets an EPA-estimated 28 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway, while the hybrid model kicks it up a notch with an EPA-estimated 41 mpg in the city and 38 mpg on the highway. You’ll save money and reduce your carbon footprint! Toyota’s Reputation for Reliability To buy a Toyota is to buy peace of mind. These vehicles are known for their durability and longevity. In fact, seeing a RAV4 with well over 200,000 miles still running strong is quite common. Thanks to Toyota’s reliable engineering and expert service centers like Mount Airy Toyota, maintenance costs for the RAV4 are typically lower than average. And Toyota gives you a fantastic warranty to keep you covered. Driving Experience The RAV4 isn’t just reliable—it’s fun to drive. The suspension system is tuned for comfort and smooths out bumps to make every ride enjoyable. If you regularly navigate challenging weather or seek off-road adventures, the RAV4 offers several all-wheel drive options that enhance traction and stability. In a nutshell, the RAV4’s performance and reliability make it a standout choice in the crowded SUV market. Power, efficiency, and peace of mind will have you feeling really good about your purchase! 3 Ways the RAV4 Appeals to Drivers The Toyota RAV4 has captured a broad spectrum of the market, appealing to various demographics with its versatile offerings. Here’s a look at what makes it so attractive: 1. Affordability and Value for Money One key reason the RAV4 is so popular is its competitive pricing. It arguably balances cost and features better than any other vehicle, which makes it accessible to a wide range of buyers. Starting at a reasonable price, it provides excellent value with standard features like advanced safety systems, a user-friendly infotainment setup, and a comfortable interior. Toyota’s renowned reliability and affordable maintenance further enhance its appeal. 2. Target Demographics The RAV4’s versatility means it appeals to a diverse group of drivers. The spacious interior and ample cargo space make it a practical choice for families. Toyota Safety Sense provides peace of mind for parents, while the Adventure and TRD Off-Road models offer rugged capabilities and all-terrain performance for outdoor enthusiasts. Meanwhile, eco-conscious drivers are drawn to the Hybrid and Prime models for their excellent fuel efficiency and reduced environmental impact. Daily commuters also appreciate the RAV4's comfortable ride, fuel efficiency, and tech-savvy features. 3. Comparison with Competitors The RAV4 shines in the convoluted compact SUV segment; the Honda CR-V, Mazda CX-5, Ford Escape, and other rivals don’t hold a candle. It combines reliability, fuel efficiency, and a comprehensive suite of standard safety features to keep an edge year after year. The availability of hybrid and plug-in hybrid variants also sets it apart, catering to the growing demand for eco-friendly vehicles. Moreover, the RAV4’s resale value remains strong, so it’s a stellar long-term investment. The RAV4’s Future Is Bright Despite its consistent success, the Toyota RAV4 isn’t resting on its laurels. Toyota is constantly looking ahead to keep the compact SUV at the forefront of the game. Here’s a glimpse into what the future holds for this popular model: Upcoming Models and Features New Trims and Editions: Toyota is always adding fresh trims and special editions—such as the RAV4 Woodland Edition with a trail-tuned suspension—to keep things exciting. You can expect other new variations with unique features and design elements to cater to evolving tastes and preferences. Enhanced Technology: Future RAV4 models will likely boast tech upgrades, including even more advanced driver-assistance systems and infotainment options. Think upgraded navigation systems, better connectivity, and more intuitive interfaces. Improved Hybrid Options: Toyota is expected to refine its hybrid offerings to meet the growing demand for green vehicles. In the next few years, we might see battery enhancements that yield better performance and longer electric ranges for the RAV4 Hybrid and Prime models. Toyota’s Plans for Innovation and Sustainability Advanced Safety Features: Toyota has always been committed to pushing the envelope on safety. Future RAV4s will likely provide new, cutting-edge technologies via the Safety Sense suite to make driving safer and more secure. Sustainability Initiatives: As part of its broader sustainability goals, Toyota plans to introduce more eco-friendly features. This could mean further improving fuel efficiency and releasing new hybrid or electric variants. Off-Road Capabilities: Expect Toyota to continue improving the RAV4’s off-road prowess through the Adventure and TRD Off-Road models; they’ll be even more capable of tackling rough terrain. Final Thoughts The Toyota RAV4 has become America’s favorite SUV for many good reasons. Its stylish looks and fantastic features achieve form and function like no other in its class. You can always count on its solid performance and unmatched reliability, making it a top pick for families, adventurers, and eco-friendly drivers. Toyota's dedication to innovation and sustainability means the RAV4 will get even better over the years. Whether you need a dependable ride for your daily commute or an adventure-ready vehicle for your weekend getaways, this compact SUV has your back. See for yourself why the RAV4 is so popular—head over to Mount Airy Toyota for a test drive!

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