You’re driving down I-74, heading back from a weekend at the coast, when suddenly your dashboard lights start chiming at you and light up. What’s happening? Are they telling you of an impending disaster, or are they just gentle reminders and nudges for car maintenance?
The trouble is, once you’ve been driving for years, you forget the importance of indicator lights, or what they could mean. Or you buy this car, then that, then another, and you forget that certain brands have different icons or symbols from the previous vehicles you owned. So, it seems a good idea to us, here at Mount Airy Toyota, to review some of the basics as well as look at a few indicator symbols that are unique to particular vehicles we have on our lot.
Dashboard indicator lights—maybe not the most exciting things about your vehicle, but they are actually rather essential to the overall function of it. And the indicator lights aren’t just about functions your vehicle performs. They also help you make decisions about maintenance needs, they give you information so that you can make the best decisions (your speedometer and gas gauge both do this) and, of course, they also warn you of critical issues you need to deal with.
Let’s look at some key indicator lights on Toyota’s line of vehicles, which uses many of the shared symbols across the industry, and consider their importance.
Standard Indicator Lights
ABS: The anti-lock braking system’s indicator light tells you there is a malfunction with either the ABS system or with the Brake Assist system (if equipped). This should be considered an indication of a critical issue that needs to be attended to straight away. If your ABS indicator comes on, be sure you safely navigate it to the nearest mechanic or, better still, call a tow truck—you don’t want your braking system to give out, and end up causing an accident!
Charging System: This indicator light will notify you of a malfunction in the vehicle’s charging system. But what does that mean? Obviously, since it looks like a battery, it can imply that your vehicle’s battery isn’t recharging properly, whilst you drive. It can also indicate an electrical issue with your car, which could mean a short in the wiring or could spell damage for things like your alternator or other system motors (windows, windshield wipers, etc.). Obviously check the battery charge, if you have a reader for that, but definitely take your vehicle in for service.
Cruise Control Indicator: This one is straight forward: your cruise control is on. Though that seems a no-brainer, if you are ever out on the highway and have turned it on, then stepped on the gas to pass someone, it’s important to check your dashboard to see if the cruise control system is still engaged. Most, but not all vehicles (especially older ones), will disengage the cruise control features if you step on the brakes; but if you step on the gas, it may only let you speed up and then default the car’s speed to the cruise control settings previously established. It’s always safer to check and ensure whether or not the system is still engaged, after manually controlling the gas pedal.
Electric Power Steering: This one certainly ranges among the most important indicators, because if you have a malfunction with your Electric Power Steering (EPS) system, you could quite obviously end up in a car accident. It’s so important to visit your dealer straight away if this indicator comes on.
Headlight: This indicator informs you when you have the headlights, parking lights, taillights, license plate, or instrumental panel lights on. Pretty straight forward, right? Well, this is also the light you need to look for on the dashboard when shutting off your car and putting your keys away, because no one wants to come back to a car that has a dead battery as a result of leaving the headlights on. (Also, this light won’t illuminate if only the Daytime Running Lights are on.)
High-beam Headlight Indicator: Driving from a woodsy, country house and getting on the main highway? Suddenly car after car flashes their high-beams at you, and you start to get annoyed until you look down at your dashboard. There’s that indicator light on, for your high beams, and you realize you had them on when navigating dark country roads—that’s fine, there. But turn them off in well-lit places or on highways, because those lights can be blinding at night (that’s part of the point, so that you can see in very dark areas). The other drivers will thank you.
Malfunction Indicator (Engine): This is, of course, the big one! If this turns on, there is some malfunction in the engine control system, the throttle control system (for manual transmission vehicles), or the automatic transmission control system (for automatic transmission vehicles). Go directly to the dealer; do not pass “GO!” and do not collect $200. If you don’t go directly to your dealer when this light pops on, you might really damage your engine and pay far more than $200 to restore it.
Low Fuel Level Warning Light (with buzzer): How many times do you look at the gas gauge and promise yourself as it hovers at half a tank, then slips just below, and then flirts with a quarter of a tank, that you will stop and get gas? And still you forget—until this light pops on and beeps at you. Now, you only have a range of 20-30 miles left (depending on the make and model of your vehicle) to locate a gas station and avert the walk of driver’s shame: gas can in hand, slogging it one mile to the next Citgo. Best advice: whenever you flirt with a one-quarter tank, just go and fill up. It’s all-around the smartest way to avoid a totally preventable, highly-irritating scenario!
Tire Pressure Warning Light: How many times have you ignored this one? Following the same train of thought with the low fuel level light, we tend to keep telling ourselves that we will put air in the front right tire, the left rear tire, this upcoming Saturday morning when we have more time, or next Tuesday when we pop by Costco. But every time we drive on a tire with lowered pressure, we are making our tires work harder to keep us on the road (there’s a reason they have grooves in the tires—to create grip) and we are speeding up the time when they will finally go bald. These sort of lights seem easily dismissed, because they don’t strike panic like the “check engine” light can, but low tire pressure means replacing costly tires all the sooner and it means poor gas mileage performance. Just get yourself in the habit of filling up your tires when low (and checking their pressure regularly with a cheap pressure gauge, hung from a key fob). It’s just the smarter way to go!
Brake System Warning Light (with buzzer): If this comes on, pull over safely, bring the vehicle to a complete stop, and call your dealer immediately. (Don’t forget you have a parking brake if you are in a situation where you’ve lost your brakes. If so, stop accelerating and try to drive off to the shoulder of the road and make use of your auxiliary braking systems.) Do not ignore this light, ever! This is a life or death light, and indicates either low brake fluid (more easily corrected by simply adding more) or a malfunction in the brake system (which your dealer needs to fix).
“Smart” Indicator Lights (on newer vehicles):
Lane Departure Alert (LDA) Indicator: As cars get smarter, we will see new indicator lights added to our dashboards, like the LDA indicator light. This is a good thing, such new additions, but it means we need to learn what they mean. So, the LDA indicator light tells the drive when she might depart from a lane. If you are on a highway or freeway, with white and yellow lines, the LDA system recognizes these lines with camera sensors; if you begin to float or stray from your lane, the system will beep at you. This sort of system, with its indicator light, is the wave of the future and promises us far smarter driving. That’s a good thing!
BSM Outside Rearview Mirror Indicator: The Blind Sport Monitor (BSM) system provides two services to you, the driver: It can assist the driver in making a decision when to change lanes and, paired with the Rear Cross-Traffic Altert (RCTA) function, it can alert a driver when it’s safe (or not) to back up. This feature can be turned on and off in many of the vehicles that come equipped with it, and it uses the cameras positioned around the body of the vehicle to read and sense the other cars and objects around it. Safer driving, in future, will mean smarter driving, and the BSM and RCTA functions are part of the wave of future “smart” driving.
Dynamic Radar Cruise Control: Using more cameras and sensors, this system will automatically adjust acceleration and deceleration, as well as, stop the vehicle, when you have the car in cruise control mode. That means your car will read and respond to the speeds and behaviors of cars around it, on the road. Such a feature means we have redundancy built into our driving: sure, we can manually adjust all of these things, but if we have a system that can act as a back up, so we have a safer buffer in our driving decisions, what’s not to like? Again, safer driving in the future will come from smarter features like the Dynamic Radar Cruise Control function. Smarter driving is safer driving, and at Mount Airy Toyota, safety is always our number one concern.
Here at Mount Airy, we are excited about the future in driving. Prototypes and innovative designs in the car’s dashboard mean we will see more and more digital dashboards with numerous smart features. The infotainment screens we are getting used to will be child’s play, compared to the rich, digital LED screens that will be virtual cockpits in cars of the future. Your future dashboard will have apps, connect seamlessly to your smartphones, be attached to satellite GPS and interface with GPS systems like Waze, providing dynamic feedback and real-time adjustments—all on your digital dashboard. The more car companies can put into our dashboard, so that we aren’t relying on our phones’ little screens for navigation and information, the better! And it will the digital dashboard, enriched with numerous functions, that will be the future driver’s main interface for interacting with autonomous-driving vehicles.
Sure, there will still be a steering wheel in the car, but the main way to master your car will be through touchscreens and voice commands. We are on the verge of a revolution in vehicles and driving habits, and Mount Airy will be there for you in future, as such cars roll off the line and onto salesfloors.
We would make a significant wager that more people dislike shopping for car insurance than like it. The very premise of insurance is weighing “what if” scenarios versus probability statistics like some kind of mind-boggling word problem in an upper-level math class you never wanted to take in the first place. How do you make sure you’re protected but not overpay for what you don’t need? How do different state laws impact your coverage? What if your needs change?
We get it.
Whether you’re buying car insurance for the first time, are considering making changes to your policy after buying a new car, or just want to shop around to see what deals are available, we at Mount Airy Toyota have put together a few tips we hope will help you.
What is auto insurance?
Auto insurance is a contract between you and an insurance company to protect you against financial loss in the event of an accident or theft. You pay a premium, and in exchange the insurance company agrees to pay your losses as outlined in your policy.
Auto insurance provides coverage for:
- Property– such as damage to or theft of your car
- Liability– your legal responsibility to others for bodily injury or property damage
- Medical– the cost of treating injuries, rehabilitation, and sometimes lost wages and funeral expenses
Policies are generally issued for six-month or one-year timeframes and are renewable.
What is a premium?
The premium is the amount you pay for an auto insurance policy. Insurance premiums for different types of insurance are determined using a diverse set of statistics and factors, such as age, health, credit rating, field of work, driving history, and geographic location. Your driving record will have the largest impact on your insurance premium. Premiums are paid in regular installments, such as monthly, quarterly, or semi-annually. Car insurance premiums may have discounts if paid in certain ways, such as in a lump sum or via automatic bank draft. Always ask insurance carriers whether they offer any such discounts.
Who is covered under an auto insurance policy?
An auto insurance policy follows a car — not a driver. For example, if someone borrows your car (whether for a few hours or a few years), that person is using your insurance policy. Laws do vary a bit from state to state. For example, a few states (Kansas, Michigan, New York, Virginia, and Wisconsin) do not allow you to exclude a driver from your policy. So in those states, if your spouse has a string of DUIs, he or she will be factored in to your premium costs. However, maybe you have a young driver in the household who only is allowed to drive one particular car — let’s pretend that car isn’t the new Toyota Supra you’ve got parked in the garage. That young driver could have his or her own policy and not be an insured driver on the adult/family policy thus potentially saving money. If you habitually lend your car to someone, whether that person is a relative or boyfriend, consider adding that person as a covered driver on your policy. And make a point to remember that if that person gets into an accident or has a DUI, it will be reflected in your insurance policy. Be sure to inquire about these kinds of situations with every insurance carrier providing you with a quote.
What is the law in North Carolina?
North Carolina Motor Vehicle Law requires that Automobile Liability coverage be continuously maintained. The minimum coverage requirements are $30,000 Bodily Injury for each person, $60,000 total Bodily Injury for all persons in an accident, and $25,000 for Property Damage. Motor Vehicle Law also requires Uninsured/ Underinsured Motorists coverage. Auto insurance policies with the minimum Bodily Injury and Property Damage limits are required to include Uninsured Motorists coverage. Policies with limits greater than the minimum must provide combined Uninsured/Underinsured Motorists coverage.
What is Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist coverage?
Uninsured Motorists (UM) Coverage will provide protection when an uninsured driver, who is at-fault, injures you or another covered individual. It also provides property damage coverage.
Underinsured Motorists (UIM) Coverage will provide protection when an underinsured driver, who is at fault, causes injury to a covered individual. An underinsured driver is one whose limits of liability are less than your UIM limits, and not enough to cover the losses of the people the underinsured driver injures in an at-fault accident.
What is GAP Insurance?
Guaranteed Auto Protection insurance is the difference between the actual cash value of a vehicle and the balance still owed on the financing. For example, let’s say you financed a car for $25,000. Over time you paid off $2,000 of the loan. Then you had an accident. It may be the case that while you still owe $23,000 on your car, its actual cash value is only $19,000 — a $4,000 gap. If you have gap insurance, it can help you cover the $4,000 gap between what you owe on your loan and what your car is worth, after your deductible.
GAP insurance only covers damage to your vehicle, not other property or bodily injuries resulting from an accident. A GAP policy will not cover your deductible. It is only used in the event of a total loss from a covered accident, not for mechanical repairs. GAP coverage is mainly used on new and used small vehicles and heavy trucks that are being leased or on which payments are being made. Several insurers sell GAP insurance including Allstate, State Farm, Progressive, and AAA, although it may be called loan/lease gap coverage, or new car replacement coverage.
What is the best way to shop for car insurance?
Most states have a buyer’s guide for auto insurance to get you started. Consider what your needs will most likely be — are you a commuter in work traffic or a Sunday driver? Are you towing farm equipment or carting the family to soccer practice?
Consider using the following resources to narrow down which companies you’ll want to ask for a quote:
- Consumer Reports Car Insurance Buying Guide
- NC Department of Insurance: A Consumer’s Guide to Automobile Insurance
Also consider whether you have access to any discounts through special memberships. Various professional, civic, and recreational organizations offer discounts, such as American Business Women’s Association, Mary Kay, National Federation of Federal Employees, AARP, and BJ’s Wholesale Club. (Remember that there are discounts to be had for multi-car coverage, bundling policies such as homeowners or renters, and various programs such as driver monitoring.)
You may also wish to look for a local agent to be your primary point of contact. Independent agents can offer policies from several insurance companies while providing you with personal service. This way no matter if you stick with one insurance carrier for years or make a change whenever your personal situation changes, you have greater continuity in terms of an agent who knows you and your needs.
What’s the best way to compare car insurance policies?
Comparing the fine print details of policies can get overwhelming fast. Remember that coverage is often sold with a per-person and total-per-loss-maximum amount. For example, 100/300/50 coverage means you have coverage of $100,000 bodily injury liability insurance per person, $300,000 total bodily injury liability insurance per accident, and $50,000 property damage liability per accident. In North Carolina the minimum is 30/60/25.
Decide what kind of deductible you want, i.e. $500 or $1,000. Decide whether you want things like towing and labor coverage, or if you don’t need it because you already belong to an organization like AAA. Be clear about what you need covered, whether it’s one car or two cars, or one car and a motorcycle and a golf cart and an RV (bundles bring discounts).
Once you can get quotes to be as “apples to apples” as possible, then you can determine which quotes are worth pursuing further. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and have your agent run numbers on a few different configurations, like changing the deductible, paying in a lump sum vs. monthly, or scraping optional add-ons like rental reimbursement coverage. It’s an agent’s job to work with you to find the best options!
How do I keep my insurance premiums from going up?
Drive safe. In North Carolina speeding 10 mph or less over a speed limit under 55 mph can result in a 30-percent rate increase. Speeding 10 mph or less over the speed limit at 55 mph or higher will increase rates by 45-percent. Passing a stopped school bus can result in an 80-percent increase. Aggressive driving may raise your rates by 195 percent, while a DUI or racing brings a whopping 340-percent rate increase.
Also know that certain cars cost more to insure than others. The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety, a nonprofit research organization funded by auto insurers, collects data on insurance claim frequency and insurance cost per vehicle. In a given year, insurance companies make claim payments of roughly $900 on average per vehicle. Some vehicles get into more accidents, and some have higher payouts for each accident. As it turns out, many of the cars that are most expensive to insure are large or midsize luxury vehicles, while the least expensive to insure are small to midsize SUVs. Published in USA Today in 2018, the data for 575 vehicles of 2014-2016 model years revealed that among the most expensive to insure are the following:
25. Kia Forte
24. Mercedes-Benz C class four-door 2WD
23. Nissan Versa
22. Nissan Sentra
21. Lexus IS 350 four-door 2WD
20. Audi A4 four-door 2WD
19. Land Rover Range Rover Sport four-door 4WD
18. Infiniti Q50 four-door 4WD
17. Dodge Dart
16. Kia Rio
15. Nissan Maxima
14. Scion tC
13. Chrysler 200 2WD
12. Scion iA
11. Ford Mustang two-door
10. Lexus GS 350 four-door 2WD
9. BMW 4 series two-door 2WD
8. Audi A7 four-door 4WD
7. Dodge Challenger
6. Kia Optima hybrid
5. Dodge Charger 2WD
4. Scion FR-S
3. Mitsubishi Lancer 2WD
2. Mercedes-Benz S class four-door LWB 2WD
1. Tesla Model S four-door electric 4WD
Of course there are also the 25 cheapest vehicle models to insure. We weren’t surprised to see Toyota on this list.
25. Toyota Sequoia four-door 4WD
24. Chevrolet Traverse four-door 4WD
23. GMC Acadia four-door 2WD
22. Ford Edge four-door 2WD
21. Ford F-150 SuperCab 4WD
20. Toyota 4Runner four-door 4WD
19. Ford F-250 SuperCab 4WD
18. Subaru XV Crosstrek 4WD with Eyesight
17. Mini Countryman 4WD
16. Honda Odyssey
15. Honda CR-V four-door 4WD
14. Honda Pilot four-door 2WD
13. Nissan Leaf electric
12. Chevrolet Corvette convertible
11. Subaru Legacy 4WD with Eyesight
10. Volvo XC60 four-door 2WD
9. Ford Expedition four-door 2WD
8. Acura MDX four-door 2WD
7. Mazda CX-5 four-door 2WD
6. Jeep Wrangler two-door SWB 4WD
5. Subaru Forester four-door 4WD with Eyesight
4. GMC Canyon crew cab 4WD
3. Chevrolet Silverado 1500 4WD
2. Acura RDX four-door 2WD
1. Subaru Outback 4WD with Eyesight
No matter what kind of car you are considering buying, new or used, Mount Airy Toyota can help find what’s right for you. We know you have several decisions to make, but rest assured that shopping with us is always a good one! Come visit us at 508 N. Andy Griffith Parkway in Mount Airy, N.C. We’re open from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Saturday. Plus you can always find us online at mountairytoyota.com or give us a call to schedule a test drive at 336.786.2118.
First manufactured in 1997 and introduced worldwide in 2000, the Toyota Prius was a car that appealed to a distinct subset of consumers: green-minded folks open to new car technology who put value on fuel economy and reliability. Once a dowdy little subcompact with a stubby nose and an under bite, the Prius has evolved into something you probably didn’t see coming. That is unless you pay attention to foreign car markets.
Four years after being released in Toyota’s home country of Japan, an all-wheel-drive Prius is finally hitting the U.S. this month. The 2019 Prius AWD-e comes as one of the most fuel-efficient all-wheel-drive-equipped passenger cars available with estimates of 52 miles-per-gallon city / 48 miles per-gallon-highway / 50 mpg combined.
The all-new Prius is so impressive, Motor1 had to say something about it: “Even with two decades of hybrid dominance, it finally took an AWD version to make the Prius an interesting drive. And this time it has nothing to do with its looks.”
Beyond interesting, early 2019 Prius AWD reviews, like this one from Cnet’s Roadshow, have even tossed around words like fun and drift:
To give me an idea of how the AWD-e system works, Toyota set up a small handling course in Kohler, Wisconsin, consisting of a 6 percent grade and a chicane, both of which were covered in fresh snow. There’s no drama as the 2019 Prius stops halfway up the grade and accelerates from a standstill — moderate throttle application is met with the whir of the electric motor doing its business, and that’s it. No muss, no fuss.
On the chicane, however, the AWD Prius feels pretty darn lively. Not knowing when the system will activate the rear motor means the tuchus wiggles arrive suddenly, but not in a way that makes the car feel unstable or anything. It’s just a little excitable, and judicious throttle application can, in fact, get a little bit of a drift going on. I’ll even go so far as to say it feels fun in the snow.
By comparison, the front-wheel-drive Prius feels a little more stable on the chicane. Having all the power go through the front wheels means that the rears will just follow suit all day long, with no ability to move under their own power. I wasn’t allowed to take the FWD Prius up the 6 percent grade for comparison, and while I feel confident that a running start will get the car up a hill like this just fine, it’s definitely easier to tackle in the AWD variant.
On the roads in Sheboygan and Kohler, both Prius variants feel nearly the same. On cold, dry roads, the extra boost from the rear motor doesn’t change how the vehicle acts when accelerating from a stop — and again, it never engages over 43 mph, so both cars drive exactly the same at highway speeds. It’s not a system that’s supposed to be felt at all times, so in that sense, it works exactly as Toyota’s engineers intended, offering extra peace of mind but only when necessary.
Toyota’s press release for the 2019 Prius AWD-e doesn’t use the word horsepower even once. Instead they mention the car’s “ultra-low 0.24 coefficient of drag,” “electronically controlled planetary-type continuously variable transmission,” and “ultra-low internal friction and efficient combustion” that “exceeds 40 percent thermal efficiency, which is among the highest in the world for a gasoline engine.” This is the kind of talk you won’t hear about Ram trucks or GMC SUVs.
Here are a few undeniable facts on the 2019 Prius AWD-e:
- The 2019 Prius AWD-e is redesigned with a new consumer in mind: the active adult who wants a bit of cool factor with their hybrid car.
- The AWD-e will offer available Genuine Toyota Accessory cargo crossbars for roof rack attachments. Think carrying bikes, kayaks, snowboards, or a cargo carrier. Inside there’s 62.7 cu. ft. of carrying space with the standard 60:40 split rear seatbacks lowered, which is more than most full-size sedans and some small SUVs.
- The standard Entune Audio system for AWD-e models includes the Entune Multimedia Bundle: 6.1 in. touch-screen display, AM/FM CD player, 6 speakers, auxiliary audio jack, one USB 2.0 port with iPod connectivity and two 2.1-amp USB charge ports, advanced voice recognition, Bluetooth hands-free phone capability, phone book access and music streaming, Siri Eyes Free, and an integrated backup camera display. The Limited grade comes standard with the Entune Premium JBL Audio with Integrated Navigation and App Suite, with a large 11.6” HD multimedia display.
Note that the 2019 Prius does come as both a FWD and AWD in various trim configurations. On all 2019 Prius models, the driver’s door Smart Key System, and the Push Button Start and remote illuminated entry come standard, as does Toyota Safety Sense P (TSS-P), a comprehensive bundle of active safety features including:
- Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection (PCS w/ PD), Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist (LDA w/ SA), Automatic High Beams (AHB), and Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC). All models have been updated with piano black accents around the shifter, on the steering wheel, and on the center console cover plus two additional 2.1 USB ports, an enlarged Qi wireless phone-charging tray to accommodate larger phones, and a standard heated steering wheel on XLE, XLE AWD-eand Limited models.
- There also are two new colors for 2019: Supersonic Red and Electric Storm Blue.
The 2019 Prius AWD-e is expected to come in around the same as the 2019 Toyota Camry Hybrid‘s starting MSRP of $28,150. The FWD 2019 Prius has manufacturer-projected fuel economy estimates of 58 mpg city / 53 mpg highway / 56 mpg combined on the L Eco grade, while the LE, XLE and Limited have projected fuel economy ratings of 54 mpg city / 50 mpg highway / 52 mpg combined. The base front-wheel-drive L Eco trim starts under $25,000. AWD LE and XLE models will run closer to $30,000. All-wheel drive is not offered for the Limited trim, which is priced just over $33,000. For comparison, the 2019 Prius C, a hatchback, starts at $21,530. The 2019 Honda Insight LX starts at $22,930. The 2019 Nissan Leaf S starts at $29,990.
The 2019 Prius comes with Toyota’s 36-month/36,000 mile basic new-vehicle warranty, which applies to all components other than normal wear and maintenance items. A 60-month warranty covers the powertrain for 60,000 miles and against corrosion with no mileage limitation. The hybrid-related components, including the HV battery, battery control module, hybrid control module and inverter with converter, are covered for 96 months/100,000 miles.
The Prius also comes standard with ToyotaCare, a complimentary plan covering normal factory-scheduled maintenance for two years or 25,000 miles, whichever comes first. For Prius, the complimentary 24-hour roadside assistance is extended to three years (over the standard two years on other models).
Overall, Toyota’s lineup for 2019 is extensive. Whether or not a Prius is right for you, there’s several Toyota vehicles from which to choose:
$15,450 starting
32/40 est MPG
$18,700 starting
28/36 est MPG
$19,990 starting
30/38 est MPG
$21,530 starting
48/43 est MPG
$23,845 starting
29/41 est MPG
$28,150 starting
51/53 est MPG
$35,500 starting
22/32 est MPG
$36,500 starting
43/44 est MPG
$58,500 starting
67/67 est MPG
$26,455 starting
21/28 est MPG
$31,115 starting
19/27 est MPG
$25,550 starting
18/22 est MPG
$31,420 starting
15/19 est MPG
$20,945 starting
27/31 est MPG
$25,500 starting
26/35 est MPG
To be released spring 2019
$31,330 starting
21/27 est MPG
$36,970 starting
30/28 est MPG
$34,910 starting
17/21 est MPG
$48,700 starting
13/17 est MPG
$84,765 starting
13/18 est MPG
Also on the horizon at the 2019 Nightshade editions of the Camry and Highlander. The Camry will sport black 18-inch wheels, a black spoiler, black window molding, black mirror caps, a black shark fin, black door handles, and black exterior Toyota emblems. It will comes in Midnight Black Metallic, Celestial Silver, and Super White. The Highlander follows suit with 19-inch black wheels, black lug nuts, and black headlights and fog lamps. The Highlander drops this month in a limited run of 5,000 available in Midnight Black Metallic, Predawn Gray Mica, Salsa Red Pearl, and Blizzard Pearl. The 4Runner Nightshade, available in Midnight black Metallic, Magnetic Gray Metallic and Blizzard Pearl, is out now.
Don’t forget to check out our new vehicle specials available at Mount Airy Toyota, as we are still clearing 2018 stock to welcome these new 2019 models to the lot. You’ll also find great deals in our pre-owned inventory that includes certified Toyotas and other manufacturer trade-ins. We can work with you to value your trade and get you behind the wheel of something new. We invite you to explore our offers and incentives, learn more about our military and college grad. rebates, and schedule a test-drive.
Come visit Mount Airy Toyota at 508 N. Andy Griffith Parkway in Mount Airy, NC. We’re open from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Saturday. You can always find us online at mountairytoyota.com or give us a call at 336.786.2118.
Do you travel with your pet? At Mount Airy Toyota, we love our four-legged companions. Whether you’re headed to the dog park, vet’s office, or further on down the road, check out these great accessories to make the ride more enjoyable for you both.
This trash can-on-the-go is designed with keeping your car’s interior fresh in mind. The silicon holder attaches to the exterior of your car with super strong magnets, so that, in the event there’s not another trash can nearby for your tied-off waste after a walk, you can stash away the mess until you find a more suitable receptacle. Be advised that the magnets are not designed to withstand the buffeting wids from high-speed driving, so unless you want to experience a justified act of road rage, don’t drive down the highway with a can full.
Auto Grass
Is your dog the worst back seat driver? Keep Fido off the center console with this silicon mat that feels weird to most paws. The soft spikes of grass won’t hurt, and you won’t have to use a traditional horizontal screen to keep all four feet in the back seat.
Use your vehicle’s regular seatbelt buckles to provide a secure harness that prevents Fido from jumping out the door when it’s opened or climbing in the front seat while you’re driving. This click in tether of seatbelt material clicks in and has a rotating carabiner that prevents getting tangled.
WeatherTech Mats, Protectors & Barriers
Sturdy, custom-fit design makes WeatherTech mats a superb addition to any vehicle — whether you have a pet or not! WeatherTech offers floor mats, trunk mats, seat back protectors, back seat protectors (for first, second, and third row seating), as well as pet barriers for behind second or third row seats, and pet ramps.
Chilly Dog Boyfriend Dog Sweater
You don’t need a boyfriend for your best friend to put on this classy grey sweater with a dashing red stripe around the collar. Any dog would be proud to wear this sweater that limits the “cute” while also controlling some of all the shedding inside the car. Plus it’s wool, so your hound will stay warm wherever your adventures take you.
Don’t be boring! Molly Mutt’s seat covers are versatile and available in a variety of patterns. Machine washable, the covers have adjustable straps and non-skid backing. Plus you can add embroidery to personalize the cover for your pooch in particular.
Ramps take up lots of room. Instead get these folding stairs built on a sturdy metal frame that rests on your vehicle’s tailgate. The stairs are easy to unfold and fold back up for quick storage, and they will support dogs up to 100 lbs.
Chances are that Fluffy likes car rides much less than Fido. You can still bring along the feline spirit with these funky air fresheners. There are corgi butts and French bulldogs too, or you can get a customized freshener painted to look like your Frenchie, Golden Retriever, Maltese, Pomeranian, Shiba Inu, or shorthaired cat.
If you’re the kind who tends to forget a fast food cup about half full of melted ice and watered down soda in the cup holder until the paper cup finally gives way and leaks, you need car coasters. Consider these tribal kitties as your cup companions.
Headed on a road trip? Pack this collapsible litter box with you, scoop out waste immediately after use, then simply toss the whole thing when the trip is over.
Perhaps a long ride in a carrier isn’t necessary so long as kitty has some sunshine and a view. This bed suction cups onto any glass — like an RV window — that’s at least 30 inches by 14 inches.
If your furry friend is ready to ride in something new, come see us at 508 N. Andy Griffith Parkway in Mount Airy or give us a call at 336.786.2118.
What is Toyotathon?
It’s more than just a sale.
Inventory levels and factory incentives come together to create the ultimate buying time at Mount Airy Toyota. It is your best chance to drive away in a brand new RAV4, Tacoma, 4Runner, Camry, Corolla or other Toyota of your dreams.
How big of a deal is Toyotathon? We’re not the only ones talking about it:
But the fact of the matter is that these Toyotathon deals WON’T last.
Our inventory already has been moving fast.
Let’s take a look around the lot before you consider throwing away your shot this Toyotathon season.
New 2018 Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro Double Cab 5′ Bed V6 4×4 AT 4WD
STOCK T1900
VIN 5TFCZ5AN1JX159211
4×4, Back-Up Camera, Satellite Radio, iPod/MP3 Input, Bluetooth, CD Player, Trailer Hitch, Aluminum Wheels, Keyless Start, Dual Zone A/C, Heated Leather Seats, MP3 Player, Privacy Glass, Steering Wheel Controls, Lane Departure Alert, Rear Parking Assist Sonar. Cavalry Blue exterior and Black interior features a V6 Engine with 278 HP at 6000 RPM*.
“The Tacoma TRD Pro is almost boundlessly capable. It’s also entertaining and presumably reliable, because Tacomas are and always have been, so it’s an easy truck to recommend on its merits alone.” — The Drive
The TRD Pro more than just an off-road truck. It’s a truck designed to go over, through, and beyond with absolute swagger. It’s a truck that inspires confidence. And this truck looks good coming and going.
This truck is one of only two TRD Pro Double Cab 5’ Bed V6 4×4 AT models left in stock!
Save $1,002 now at Mount Airy Toyota.
$45,949
See our entire new Tacoma inventory.
New 2019 Toyota Avalon Touring
STOCK T1672
VIN 4T1BZ1FB3KU002684
Navigation, Sunroof, Heated Seats, Back-Up Camera, Premium Sound System, Satellite Radio, iPod/MP3 Input, Onboard Communications System, Aluminum Wheels, Keyless Start, Dual Zone A/C, Rear Spoiler, Steering Wheel Controls, Child Safety Locks, Heated Mirrors, Blind Spot Monitor with Lane Change Assist Brownstone exterior and black interior with touring trim features a V6 Cylinder Engine with 301 HP at 6600 RPM*.
“The redesigned 2019 Toyota Avalon bridges the gap between the Camry and its pricier Lexus sibling, the ES 350. This latest fifth-generation model makes all of the expected improvements over its predecessor with more features, stronger performance, added refinement and more efficient engines.” — Edmunds.com
Sleek, shiny, sporty, the Avalon Touring is the family car that doesn’t feel like a dud. You’ll enjoy the spacious cabin, large navigation/entertainment display, ample storage, ability to climb mountains and pass with confidence.
This Avalon is the only touring model left in stock!
$43,164
See our entire new Avalon inventory.
New 2018 Toyota 4Runner SR5 Premium 4WD with Navigation
STOCK T1891X
VIN JTEBU5JR8J5592223
Heated Seats, CD Player/MP3 Player, Entune Prpemium Audio with Navigation, Sunroof, Onboard Communications System, Alloy Wheels, Tow Hitch, 4×4. Classic Silver Metallic exterior and Black Graphite interior, SR5 Premium trim features a V6 Engine with 270 HP at 5600 RPM*.
“The 4Runner’s 270-horsepower V6 is a marvelous engine, delivering ample power for passing, merging and towing… Off-road, Toyota’s 2018 4Runner SUV exhibits amazing capabilities. Its narrow body and up to 9.6 inches of ground clearance make it easy to move through rugged trails.” — Kelley Blue Book
Toyota’s motto is “Let’s go places,” and indeed you will in this 4Runner for which “classic” even describes its paint job. Get out there and explore. Don’t just cross intersections — cross streams! The 4Runner is the fun you’ve always wanted with the reliability you need.
This is one of only two SR5 Premium 4WD models left in stock.
Save $2,210 now at Mount Airy Toyota!
$39,395
See our entire new 4Runner inventory.
New 2018 Toyota Camry Hybrid XLE CVT
STOCK T1731
VIN 4T1B21HK4JU507276
Heated Leather Seats, Dual Zone A/C, Keyless Start, Back-Up Camera, iPod/MP3 Input, Bluetooth, Chrome Wheels, Remote Truck Release, Steering Wheel Controls, Child Safety Locks. Galactic Aqua exterior and Black interior, Hybrid XLE trim, and a 4-Cylinder Engine with 208 HP at 5700 RPM*.
“The Camry has received a major overhaul, including a new platform, more aggressive styling, and vastly improved driving dynamics… Inside and out, the new XLE gives off a premium vibe foreign to Camrys of yore. Built on Toyota’s New Global Architecture (TNGA), the 2018 Camry rides on a 2.0-inch-longer wheelbase and is about an inch and a half longer, an inch lower, and three-quarters of an inch wider. The resulting proportions and elegantly sloping roofline give it a more substantial, upscale look.” — Car and Driver
This is the only Camry Hybrid XLE left in stock!
Save $3,740 now at Mount Airy Toyota!
$35,085
See our entire new Camry inventory.
STOCK T1910X
VIN 2T3ZFREV4JW487232
Back-Up Camera, iPod/MP3 Input, Bluetooth, CD Player. Rear Spoiler, MP3 Player, Privacy Glass, Keyless Entry, Child Safety Locks, LED illumination package, with Magnetic Gray Metallic exterior and Black interior features a 4-cylinder engine with 176 HP at 6000 RPM*.
“The RAV4 is a smart buy for shoppers surveying the highly competitive compact SUV segment. It aligns with Toyota’s well-established reputation for reliable, high-value vehicles, and it is a practical and appealing choice for families or adults with an active lifestyle.” — US News & World Report
The RAV4 was the best-selling non-pickup vehicle in the US in 2017 — that many people can’t be wrong. Known for its ability to appeal across age ranges, the RAV4 offers SUV capabilities with smaller, crossover-style practicality.
This is one of eight LE FWD RAV4 models left in stock!
Save $3,426 now at Mount Airy Toyota!
$22,977
See our entire new RAV4 inventory.
New 2019 Toyota Corolla SE CVT
STOCK T1874
VIN 5YFBURHE7KP871486
Back-Up Camera, iPod/MP3 Input, Bluetooth, CD Player, Aluminum Wheels Rear Spoiler, Remote Trunk Release, Keyless Entry, Child Safety Locks, Steering Wheel Controls with Classic Silver Metallic exterior and Black interior features 4-cyclinder engine with 132 HP at 6000 RPM*.
“Toyota’s Corolla built its reputation by offering great value for the money, solid fuel economy and industry-leading quality. It retains these attributes for 2019 while also adding a great package of safety features.” — Kelley Blue Book
If you want a car that you can buy now and drive into the ground years and years and hundreds of thousands of miles into the future, a Corolla is incredibly hard to beat. It’s the kind of car that you wouldn’t hesitate to buy for your teenager, college kid, commuter, or grandparents. And while the Corolla used to be rather innocuous, the 2019 has style.
This is one of only two Corolla SE CVT models left on the lot!
Save $2,437 at Mount Airy Toyota now!
$19,471
See our entire new Corolla inventory.
Toyotathon specials don’t stop there! There are offers on all Toyotas depending on model and year, which may include special financing and lease options in addition to available college grad and military rebates.
A bonus to Toyotathon is that we receive new trade ins that we also want to sell quickly! If you’re looking for a used car, check our inventory daily so you won’t miss out, or — better yet — call us or come in to talk to one of our experiences sales agents so that when what you want comes on the lot, you’ll be among the first to know.
Our used car inventory right now includes:
Pre-Owned 2013 Ford Taurus 4dr Sdn SEL FWD
Oxford White, 77,908 miles, $10,465
Pre-Owned 2011 Toyota RAV4 FWD 4dr 4-cyl 4-Spd AT Ltd
Classic Silver Metallic, 120,705 miles, $11,987
Certified Pre-Owned 2016 Toyota Camry 4dr Sdn I4 Auto SE
Cosmic Grey Mica, 33,849 miles, $16,578
Certified Pre-Owned 2018 Toyota Camry LE Auto
Blue Crush Metallic, 31, 464 miles; $18,683
Pre-Owned 2017 Buick Envision FWD 4dr Essence
Chili Red Metallic, 53,000 miles, $21,743
Certified Pre-Owned 2017 Toyota Sienna LE FWD 8-Passenger
Predawn Gray Mica, 44,925 miles, $21,745
Pre-Owned 2015 Lexus IS 250 4dr Sport Sdn RWD
Black, 44,319 miles, $24,956
Pre-Owned 2010 Ford Super Duty F-450 DRW 4WD Crew Cab 172 Lariat
Oxford White, 94,966 miles, $28,941
Certified Pre-Owned 2017 Toyota Tacoma SR5 Double Cab 5′ Bed V6 4×2 AT
Barcelona Red Metallic, 9,899 miles, $29,487
Pre-Owned 2016 Toyota Highlander AWD 4dr V6 XLE AWD
Blizzard Pearl, 56,506 miles, $29,987
Certified Pre-Owned 2016 Toyota Tundra 4WD Double Cab 5.7L FFV V8 6-Spd AT SR5 4WD
Radiant Red, 61,464 miles, $31,995
Pre-Owned 2017 Chevrolet Suburban 4WD 4dr 1500 LT 4WD
Jet Black, 51,364 miles, $35,984
Pre-Owned 2017 Toyota Tacoma TRD Sport Double Cab 5′ Bed V6 4×4 4WD
Silver Sky Metallic, 7,897 miles, $35,995
Perhaps you’re looking to trade in your vehicle. Go ahead and get started on the process so that you know more about your buying power. You can value your trade and applying for financing online.
We look forward to seeing you at Mount Airy Toyota. Come find us at 508 N Andy Griffith Pkwy., Mount Airy, NC 27030, visit us online at mountairytoyota.com, or call us at 336.786.2118. Our staff and our customers come from parts all around the area. From Winston-Salem to Galax, Boone to Statesville — drivers from across the region come to Mount Airy Toyota to find the service and selection they need. We pride ourselves on earning our customers trust and repeat business. We want you to not only buy your next car from us but all your next cars! Our sales team is available from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and our parts and service departments are open from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday and 7:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday.
Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook and Twitter too!
You have seen them out on the road, possibly owned one, and very likely have ridden in a Toyota Camry before, whether getting a ride from a family member, friend, or ride-sharing service —want to know how we know this? It is because the Toyota Camry is the best-selling sedan for the past 15 years in the United States.
The year of 2018 was no different for the steady Toyota Camry sales, and brought on the redesigned, stunning 2018 Toyota Camry, which reworked the sedan that America knows and loves from bumper to bumper. Here at Mount Airy Toyota, we can assure you that if you’re considering purchasing a 2018 Toyota Camry, you’re making the right choice.
Why is it smart to buy a Toyota Camry?
The reviews and ravings about the Toyota Camry speak for themselves, but we can cover the highlights. The Toyota Camry is one of the best vehicles in the midsize car class, and for good reason. It’s a blend of practicality and dependability, alongside an edgy, sportier look outside and inside with great, new standard features across the levels. The sportier look blends into the driving experience as well, delivering an athletic, agile drive that will transform all your previous thoughts about the Camry.
The Camry still has the best combination of quality and value in its class, which is why US News Car Rankings named it their 2018 Best Midsize Car for the Money.
What are the trim levels and features?
Ranging from the least expensive, but far from truly basic L trim to the most expensive, all-out XSE trim, you will find the Camry that fits your wants and needs.
According to cars.com, the most important features per trim level are as follows:
Standard features (L trim level, $24,380 with destination):
- 203-hp, 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine
- Eight-speed automatic transmission
- 16-inch wheels
- Manual air conditioning
- Backup camera with fixed backup lines
- Bluetooth
- Cloth seating
- Six-way manually adjustable driver’s seat; six-way manually adjustable front passenger seat
- Adaptive cruise control (over 25 mph)
- Single USB port
- Tilt/telescoping steering wheel
- 7-inch touchscreen with Siri Eyes Free, Google voice controls, iPod connectivity and Scout GPS smartphone application compatibility to port navigation from your phone to the touchscreen
The LE trim level ($24,885) adds:
- 17-inch alloy wheels
- Eight-way power-adjustable driver’s seat
- 60/40 split-folding backseat
- Overhead console with map lights and sunglasses storage
- Anti-theft alarm
The SE trim level ($26,085) adds:
- Single-zone automatic climate control
- Sport SofTex-trimmed front seats (faux leather/cloth combination)
- Leather-trimmed steering wheel with paddle shifters
- 18-inch black alloy wheels
- Performance-tuned shock absorbers
- Performance-tuned springs
- Performance-tuned stabilizer bars
- Rear spoiler
The XLE trim level ($29,335) adds:
- Standard suspension
- Regular steering wheel without paddle shifters
- Dual-zone automatic climate control with backseat vents
- Blind spot monitoring system
- Three USB ports
- Backup camera with dynamic predictive backup lines
- Seven-inch high-resolution gauge cluster display with vehicle vitals and options
- Leather-trimmed upholstery
- Eight-way power passenger seat
- Heated front seats
- Adaptive cruise control (all speeds)
- Eco, Normal and Sport modes
- Proximity keyless entry with push-button start
- HomeLink
The XSE trim level ($29,885) adds:
- 19-inch black alloy wheels
- Performance-tuned shock absorbers
- Performance-tuned springs
- Performance-tuned stabilizer bars
- Steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters
- Smoked headlights and taillights
- Rear spoiler
- Dual-exiting exhaust with quad tips
The optional 301-hp V-6 engine on the XLE ($35,285) or XSE ($35,835) adds:
- Panoramic glass roof with power tilt/slide moonroof
- Qi-compatible wireless smartphone charging
- Head-up display
- 8-inch touchscreen
- JBL stereo
Efficient. Enjoyable. Excellent.
The trim levels of the 2018 Camry deliver different experiences, each that are far from boring. Many argue that the biggest changes to the 2018 Camry happened underneath the hood, with the new structurally enhanced chassis. The new design philosophy delivers architecture that uses ultra-high-tensile steel and unique construction techniques to improve rigidity, meaning that the vehicle is now literally strengthened from the ground-up. You can feel the difference during your driving experience, where handling and steering responsiveness, ride quality, and noise control are all seriously improved.
Engine options across all trim levels are new to the Camry, including the base 2.5-liter-four-cylinder engine with an eight-speed automatic transmission, as well as the optional 3.5-liter V-6 engine with D-4S direct fuel injection, and an eight-speed automatic transmission.
The Camry Hybrid meets 52-MPG EPA, with 208 total system horsepower from its 2.5-liter four-cylinder gas engine with a single electric motor. This Hybrid model provides a smooth switch between all-electric and batter-assisted driving, especially in Sport mode. The battery pack for the Camry Hybrid improves weight distribution to aid handling, and improves acceleration from boosted electric power, providing a ride equivalent to a traditional transmission with the hybrid efficiency of fuel economy.
Depending on the trim level, the LE has a lithium-ion pack, offering an extra six miles per gallon compared to higher trim levels, while the SE and XSE have a nickel-metal hydride that offers higher performance despite a heavier setup.
The new rear suspension in the 2018 Camry delivers an overall more composed ride-and-handling mix, particularly over bumpy roads.
Not only redesigned, but styled for 2018.
What’s new in the Toyota Camry? Well honestly, almost everything. The 2018 brought innovative new design and overhaul, making the most exciting Camry ever made. From outstanding fuel economy, the option of going Hybrid, to standard features, there’s a lot of to love about the 2018 Camry.
Upon first glance at the 2018 Camry, there are noticeable changes from previous models. The Camry has undergone a pretty drastic styling makeover. The first aspect that stands out to the observer is the updated color palette with a two-tone black roof and sleeker overall body shape, creating a more attractive and aggressive profile and provides better aerodynamics. The Camry’s body is actually lower, wider, and longer than prior models, and the wheelbase have grown 1.9 inches.
The interior matches the exterior, using high-quality materials throughout, with an attractive and functional design. You will find soft touch materials on the dash, console, and door trim, as well as accent stitching on the front and rear seats. Tasteful design and light leather brings the interior together into a modern, airy style.
Like previous models, the 2018 Camry seats five people, with roomy and supportive seats and a great, quiet cabin. Drivers over 6 feet tall will find more than enough head, shoulder and leg room in the vehicle, especially in the driver’s seat where there is a great wheel-to-pedals ratio.
The intuitive infotainment system is a crowd pleaser, with bright menus and good overall performance. The SE model offers a wireless charging dock, which is a feature you’re also a newer smart phone user. You also cannot forget about the cargo space either; the Camry offers about 15 cubic feet of trunk space, which is plenty for a dozen shopping bags or your luggage as you travel between cities.
Talk to me about safety.
Safety is a major selling point for those interested in a Camry. The Toyota Camry strikes a perfect balance between safety and cutting edge technology. It is important to note that every trim level of the 2018 Camry includes the Toyota Safety Sense Package. This package includes forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking and pedestrian detection, lane departure warning with lane keep assist, and high-speed adaptive cruise control.
The Camry toggles accordingly between high beams and low beams, detected by a windshield camera during nighttime driving that detects headlights and taillights of preceding vehicles. The 2018 Camry is an IIHS Top Safety Pick+ when equipped with LED headlights.
Everything aims to improve safety, as well as comfort in this vehicle, such as the re-styled dashboard and lowered beltline to improve outward visibility. The increased chassis, as mentioned previously with the Camry built from the ground-up, and increased body strength has led to improved occupant protection in an offset front of head-on collision. The Toyota Safety Sense Package bundles innovative features designed to protect you and your passengers from harm at no additional cost.
Who is the 2018 Camry marketed for?
Unlike the a powerful truck or minivan, the Camry is adaptable and does not fit into cookie-cutter market segment. It rides and drives as a shockingly sporty vehicle, with sharp steering and strong brakes, making it fun and exciting to drive. However, the Camry is also enjoyable and functional for its passengers, due to plenty of room in the front and back with both sets of seats engineered for improved ergonomics and increased foot room. The 2018 Camry also has an outstanding reliability rating of 4.5 out of 5, meaning this car will last throughout whatever phases of life you need it to.
Is it a family car?
For years, families have remained loyal to the mid-sized sedan for its commitment to affordable and reliable transportation. While Toyota always follows through on their guarantee for excellence, the 2018 Camry is not simply a reiteration of previous Camry models. The 2018 is a new level of refinement and driving experience
According to IIHS vehicle ratings, the 2018 models include 2 rear seating positions with complete child seat attachments (LATCH), with 1 additional seating position with a tether anchor and the ability lower anchors from other seating positions. These anchors are easy to find, not too deep in the seat, and easy to maneuver around, making the Camry easily accessible for travelling with children in car seats.
Our customers are our family, here at Mount Airy Toyota, and this is a car we would absolutely feel safe and confident watching our family drive off in. The 2018 Camry is easily one of the most well rounded cars in its class, not to mention that it’s easy to drive, fuel-efficient, loaded with technology, and so customizable between the multiple trim levels.
Why buy from us?
We, as well as our customers, love to brag on our excellent sales staff. Our staff has been with the dealership for years, and are not only well-versed in their field, but with our Mount Airy locale. Mount Airy Toyota has an award winning service department with excellent Google Rankings. After your purchase, you can rest assured that you have dealership with a service team behind you for any tune-ups your car might need.
Why buy now?
We know the holiday commercials can seem far off, but the season is upon us! Placing a shiny red bow on your family’s new vehicle is not an impossible dream. In fact, around the holidays, and particularly, at the end of the year is the best time to buy a vehicle!
Your timing can actually save you thousands this November! End of the year sales are in full swing, and the holiday season is kicking off this Black Friday with deals you can’t turn down! Outgoing models like the 2018 Camry are hitting especially sweet deals this time of the year, as it’s time to bring the 2019 models into the lot.
What about resale value?
It’s always smart to be in the know about the long-term value of your car. We all have experienced the feeling of driving off the lot with a new car and knowing it has dropped thousands in value. But, did you know that the 2018 Camry is rated #1 for resale value? Whether in a few years you’re looking to upgrade or ready for a change, the Camry retains its value, carrying on the Camry legacy of reliability, longevity, and popularity for years to come. In fact, check out our pre-owned Camrys available now!
Come visit Mount Airy Toyota in Mount Airy, NC, shop online at mountairytoyota.com, or call 336.786.2118.
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Michael Brinegar, better known as Mr. B here at Mount Airy Toyota, knows customer service. In fact, he’s written the bible on it — at least when it comes to car sales. He keeps notes to help him remember not just what kind of cars each customer has purchased over the years but their special occasions like birthdays. He emphasizes that he’s there for his customers even long after the sale has closed, always providing his customers with his personal cell phone number and email address. He keeps tabs on himself too, setting personal goals and tracking his success.
That success has led to being on top. Michael joined the Mount Airy Toyota team in 2016. In 2017 he was named a “Toyota PRO” (Professional Retail Outstanding Salesperson) — one of the top 10 percent of salespeople in the Southeast Toyota Region who also is Toyota Certified. That year he sold 215 vehicles. That year he sold 215 vehicles. With another month left in 2018, he’s already beaten his own record.
“I’m a blessed man,” Michael says. “I’m a blessed man in this business, I have good clientele.”
Michael fondly remembers a young boy along with his family buying a car. The boy knew about Michael’s “car bible” and asked what number where they going to be. In their case, they were number 198.
Another family has racked up several numbers, purchasing 11 vehicles from Michael.
“Be fair, honest, treat people as you want to be treated,” Michael says. “Imagine you are on the other side of the desk.”
Michael wasn’t always a salesman. Self-described as an “old country boy,” Michael was born and raised in Sparta, N.C. His previous career was in the music industry. He performed and recorded Southern Gospel music professionally for 14 years. In his free time now, you’ll still find him playing and writing music. He plays the guitar, bass, piano, and drums.
He and his wife had four children — one of whom is a Marine — and are now grandparents to four. Four is a bit of a magic number for the couple. They also have four dogs — three Jack Russell Terriers and a French Bulldog.
Michael started selling cars in 2015 and has only ever sold Toyotas. It’s a brand in which he believes — he drives a Camry and his wife drives a RAV4. Dealership owner, Scott McCorkle, asked him to join the Mount Airy Toyota team in 2016.
“Some of the best people I’ve ever met in my life I’ve met at this dealership,” Michael says. Team members get to know one another, respect one another, and help one another. Their family dynamic carries over to how they treat their clients.
Michael enjoys taking the time to find the vehicle that meets a customer’s needs and budget, whether it’s new or used and whether they come in knowing exactly what they want or with no real idea at all.
“It does my heart good at night to know I helped someone,” Michael says. “When a repeat or referral customer says, ‘Here’s Michael and I trust him,’ it feels good!”
Come meet Michael at Mount Airy Toyota! We’re open Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. at 508 N. Andy Griffith Pkwy in Mount Airy, N.C. You can also reach us online at mountairytoyota.com or call us at 336.786.2118. We look forward to seeing you!
Look on the road these days and you’ll see a lot of one thing and not a lot of another – SUVs vs. sports cars. Buyers have driven away from small, cramped, and low and toward spacious seating with a view from a higher vantage point. At least for the traditional consumer, having room for the family and all their things, or perhaps the crew of friends and all their dogs, has made SUVs more popular than ever before. Toyota’s recent release of the C-HR and its upcoming release of the 2019 RAV4 are strong contenders in a crowded market.
Toyota has long earned love and loyalty for its RAV4, 4Runner, Highlander, Landcruiser, and Sequoia models. This year brought the introduction of the crossover C-HR, which was designed to fit a particular niche missing from the traditional Toyota lineup: something to bridge the gap between the SUVs, sedans, and compact cars. Edmunds named the C-HR as one of the Best Small SUVs for 2018.
Those who remember the Toyota FJ Cruiser will recognize the signature white roof available on the C-HR with a Radiant Green Mica, Ruby Flare Pearl, or Blue Eclipse Metallic body. Its body styling is edgier than typically seen from Toyota, in part because the C-HR carried over from the maker’s now defunct Scion brand.
The C-HR’s comes with push-button start, a 7-inch touch screen, 4.2-inch information display for the driver, auto-dimming rear view mirror, electric parking brake, and folding mirrors. Walk up to your C-HR with smart key technology and once you touch the door handle, the mirrors will unfold and display an illuminated logo on the ground. These lights complement the car’s halogen headlines, LED daytime running lights, and sculpted taillights.
However, Toyota shoppers will have noticed a lack in connectivity across the line. There’s no Apple CarPlay or Android Auto currently available, but this tech is expected to be added in 2019.
What else is coming from Toyota in 2019? The fifth-generation RAV4. The RAV4 was the bestselling non-pickup in the US in 2017. It was last redesigned in 2013. The new model will feature Dynamic Torque Vectoring All-Wheel Drive with rear Driveline Disconnect, meaning that the engine can not only direct available power to the rear wheel, it can pick the wheel that has the most traction. When all-wheel drive no longer is needed, the system disconnects and reverts to front-wheel drive. Partnered with the Toyota New Global Architecture platform, which Toyota started using 2015 with the Prius, the result is a vehicle built to go further and do more.
“The implementation of the TNGA platform allows RAV4 to adopt the charisma of a bolder and tougher SUV, but in a package that is lower and wider,” writes Toyota. “The longer wheelbase and wider front and rear tracks provide a stable, confident driving platform. For off-road prowess, the shorter front and rear overhangs will aid in RAV4’s ability to overcome rugged terrain.”
To be released in winter 2018 (soon!), the RAV4 will come in three versions: the premium Limited, rugged Adventure grade, or stylish XSE Hybrid that will be available spring 2019. On the Limited edition, standard features include a front-row moonroof and 8-way power-adjustable driver’s seat with memory and 2-way lumbar support, plus a newly-designed 7-inch Multi-Information Display (MID) and, for the first time in a Toyota vehicle in North America, a Digital Display Rearview Mirror. Options include ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, a panoramic moonroof, and hands-free liftgate.
With the expected arrival of the 2019 RAV4, our specials at Mount Airy Toyota on the 2018 RAV4 are better than ever. From the XLE to the LE to the SE, you’ll find saving of up to $3,799 on select models. In fact, there’s savings to be had on every Toyota model now through the end of the year. Plus our pre-owned vehicles also are marked down.
Toyotathon is on at Mount Airy Toyota. Come visit us at 508 N. Andy Griffith Pkwy. in Mount Airy, NC, visit us online at mountairytoyota.com, or give us a call at 336.786.2118.
1957 — the BJ-era Land Cruiser rolled into civilian life as the FJ25 Cruiser setting up Toyota to expand across foreign markets. The FJ25 had working doors, roll-down windows, and air conditioning, and its military design made it unique. It was innovative for its time, having been manufactured in such a way that it could be produced for either right- or left-hand driving. The Land Cruiser evoked the rough and tumble maneuverability and look of the all-American Jeep but appealed to those who wanted something new and different.
At Mount Airy Toyota, we can’t wait for the 2019 Land Cruiser to be released. Expected to hit the market later in 2019, the Land Cruiser will be, as it has been, a classic.
If you want to strike out on a long, cross-country adventure; if you want to climb up mountains and roll over deserts; if you want to ride astride a myth, a legend of a vehicle, the Land Cruiser is what you’ve been searching for.
Think khaki-clad photographers stalking the elusive white rhino. Think camping in the deserts of Arizona. Think scouting trips in the Adirondacks. Think Bear Grylls. The 2019 Land Cruiser is your ticket to adventure and breath-taking views.
Or maybe you’re taming the parking lot jungle, navigating soccer mom terrain, and scouting for the hottest new place to have dinner. The steering wheel is heated and wrapped in leather, the read-seat DVD entertainment system features two 11.6-inch screens, and the standard 14-speaker JBL Synthesis audio system include an 8-inch subwoofer and a 605-watt amplifier.
“Of course, nobody buys a Land Cruiser because it has a touchscreen and can cool your pants through its leather seats. There are plenty of choices that can do that while offering a more sumptuous and compliant ride,” writes Kirill Ougarov for Automobile Magazine. “No, the special sauce here is the Range Rover-level capability that comes with it—highlights include full-time 4WD, crawl control, locking limited-slip center differential, the suspension’s ability to disconnect the anti-roll bars, and the Multi-Terrain Select system.”
The Details
What will power all that adventure, all that thrill-seeking? A 5.7-liter, V-8 engine with 381 horsepower, driving the all-wheel drive with 8-speed automatic transmission. That includes 401 lb.-ft of torque.
Toyota has 60 years of global adventure backing its design for the 2019 Land Cruiser. The 2019 Land Cruiser has maintained its sturdy body frame from 2008, tried and true, made of a high-tensile steel ladder frame to ensure durability and reduced flex. The independent front suspension has sway bars built in, which keep the vehicle from swaying too much in tight turns or twists. In fact, the Land Cruiser has an independent double-wishbone suspension system, to ensure each wheel moves independently but in unison with the others, for maximal control. But it does not sacrifice wheel articulation in the process. Rough terrain is no match for its fantastic maneuverability and control on the road, and off.
The Land Cruiser offers Standard Crawl Control (CRAWL), which assists the driver in controlling acceleration and baking on difficult terrains. You can go off-roading and be assured you can control your Land Cruiser at low speed, on rough terrain, without fear of safety concerns. Tighter turning radiuses becomes possible, with CRAWL, when navigating rugged terrains.
And Multi-terrain Monitor helps you cut a path of adventure, cuing your Land Cruiser for whatever landscapes beckon you. That system collects the feeds from all the vehicle’s exterior cameras. A simple press of a button toggles between views, so that backing-up or continuing onward doesn’t come with any surprises.
Multi-terrain Select is an innovative system that controls wheelspin and brake lockup, so driving performance stays on point and remains optimal at all times. No matter the kind of surface you’re driving on, Multi-terrain Select responds nicely, keeping you in control of your adventure.
Part of the safety features include powerful LED lighting, so that whether on high or low beams, you have strong and bright lights to help you guide your way into the unknown. LED fog lights will turn on in the event of unfavorable weather. You can adventure far and near without the worry of safety getting in the way.
The Land Cruiser sports features from the Toyota Safety Sense suite: pre-collision warning system, automated emergency brakes, and adaptive cruise control are some of its many offers. Off-roading on rough terrain has never been safer.
The traction control system in place can handle any terrain you put your Land Cruiser on, so get ready to push its limits. And its safety features are on point: emergency braking is standard, along with blind-spot monitors. Whether out in the wild or braving the city streets, Toyota has you covered for power, drive features, and safety.
The interior’s onboard electronics and dashboard has all the bells and whistles you seek. There are several exterior cameras to aid in backing up (front, side, and rear views) and a 9-inch screen loaded with Toyota’s Entune infotainment system. 14 JBL speakers immerse you in sound and the Entune App Suite along with Integrated Navigation ensure great navigation, smooth tunes, connectivity options and beautiful sound.
The interior is wrapped in leather, and heated and ventilated seats come standard. There is four-zone climate control with 28 vents throughout the cabin ensure you can keep a controlled environment. The Land Cruiser even includes Positive Temperature Coefficient, which is a system that heats air quickly in the cabin for very cold days.
“All-day seat comfort and a quiet ride are two of the Land Cruiser’s strongest points. Considering its capabilities off-road, this Toyota is surprisingly comfortable on the road,” reports Edmunds.com.
The dashboard sets many controls at your fingertips. A high-resolution screen and intuitive controls onboard set you up for a successful, comfortable journey. These are just some among the many other luxury touches that maintain a high-level creature comforts.
The cabin has two rear-seat DVD screens connecting the entertainment system throughout the SUV. And the entertainment can be personalized for each of passengers. The two 11.6 inch screens have great picture quality along with the latest movies, TV shows and game at your fingertips.
The tried-and-true Land Cruiser has held its field among the high-end, large-class, rough-and-ready SUVs. It rivals the Range Rover and can match the luxury of a Lexus. It brings forward a long legacy of 60 years of off-roading, adventuring abroad, and maintaining the spirit of a pioneer. That 60 year legacy will push forward into the future as the 2019 Land Cruiser revs on, blazing a trail for years to come.
Look for the Land Cruiser and other Toyota SUVs at Mount Airy Toyota. Visit us online at mountairytoyota.com or call us at 336.786.2118.
The next time you wake up in the morning, head into the kitchen, and pop a piece of bread in the toaster, you’re going to think of two things that might surprise you — Mount Airy and Toyotas.
The small North Carolina town and the Japanese auto maker share an interesting connection when it comes to browned bread. As industrialism re-aligned the American food chain with sliced bread in every kitchen, Toyota exported its first automobile to the U.S. Twenty years later, Mount Airy — home to Mount Airy Toyota — became known as the Toaster Capital of the World.
A Short History of Toast
Toasters, first invented in Scotland in 1893, took quite a few years to catch on in domestic life. General Electric built the first toaster for the home in 1909, but toasters’ signature pop-up feature didn’t come along until 1909. What really turned up the heat on the toaster market was sliced bread. First sold in 1928 as “the greatest step forward in the baking industry since bread was wrapped,” the new-fangled, pre-sliced loaves gave way to the saying “greatest thing since sliced bread.” Wonder Bread took a big hunk out of the bread basket when the company started marketing pre-sliced bread nationwide in 1930.
World War II marked a turning point for sliced bread. Officials banned sliced bread in 1943 as a wartime conservation measure. The ban coincided with a 10-percent increase in flour prices and a presumed shortage of wax paper, which was wrapped around sliced bread to keep it from drying out. Americans were distraught, and a letter that appeared in the New York Times drove the issue home:
“I should like to let you know how important sliced bread is to the morale and saneness of a household. My husband and four children are all in a rush during and after breakfast. Without ready-sliced bread I must do the slicing for toast—two pieces for each one—that’s ten. For their lunches I must cut by hand at least twenty slices, for two sandwiches apiece. Afterward I make my own toast. Twenty-two slices of bread to be cut in a hurry!”
After the war, as rationing had passed and pre-made, pre-packaged foods were a sign of prosperity, bread boomed. “Most consumers happily ate six slices of industrial white bread a day during the 1950s,” according to a Salon article from 2012. Compare that to today’s gluten-free menus and burgers wrapped in lettuce!
Six slices of bread a day gave way to a demand for mighty little toasters designed for each and every home, so in the late 1950s, the Proctor Electric Company served up a thoroughly modern plant built specifically to produce electric automatic toasters in a tiny town called Mount Airy.
During the initial excavation phase of the plant, a large Native American burial ground was found on the site, according to the Mount Airy Museum of Regional History. Newspaper accounts of the day report that archeologists believed the graves to be between 300-600 years old. Sadly, there was no oversight to protect these grounds and an open invite to “hunt relics” was even issued to the community at large.
Mount Airy’s toasters shipped out across the nation. Just two years after the plant opened, it produced its 1,000,000 toaster. Close to 50 models were manufactured at the site and sold under the brand names of Sears, Montgomery Ward and Universal. In 1960, Proctor Electric Company merged with the Silex Corporation, and later with Hamilton Beach. A case study issued by the North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources in 1995 reported that Hamilton Beach-Proctor-Silex was the world’s largest manufacturer of toasters and toaster ovens. The company’s Mount Airy facility employed 1,000 people and produced 35,000 toasters per day. By 1998 the plant was closed.
Not that toasters have fallen out of style. From early models with two slots, to four-slotted models with a variety of settings, to novelty toasters that brand an image of Hello Kitty or Darth Vader, toasters continue to be a kitchen staple. Whether for breakfast pastries or waffles, bagels or strudels, wheat bread or white, the toaster is a reliable friend.
Toyota’s Toaster Connection
Just as Wonder Bread began selling sliced bread in the 1930s, Toyota started producing cars. A division of the Toyoda Automatic Loom Works was devoted to manufacturing automobiles in 1993. Toyota Motor Co. was established as an independent and separate company in 1937.
The changed economic and industrial landscape of the 1950s brought about the toaster craze and the first Toyota to be sold in the United States.
There’s a saying in the automotive business — that certain cars look like “a toaster on wheels.” Toyota’s now defunct sister brand, Scion, was one of the champion makers of toaster cars with its Scion xB, introduced in 2004.
“The original xB is perhaps the most gleefully rational car design to come out in the past decade, and somehow that basic, unassuming design manages to be fun as well,” wrote Jason Torchinsky in Jalopnik.
In 2007 the second generation xB, rounded out the five-door hatchback’s boxy corners. Improvements earned the xB a Top Safety Pick from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety for six years in a row. With a host of customizable looks and out-of-the-box boxy design, the xB appealed to a younger car buying market. Kia — a company with abysmal ratings in the mid-2000s — saw an opportunity. The Soul rolled out in 2009 complete with dancing hamsters who earned Nielsen’s most effective automotive ad award two years in a row. The term “toaster car” even has been attributed to Kia Motor’s chief designer’s 12-year-old daughter.
The xB was discontinued in 2015 and, along with the Toyota Matrix, was replaced by the Scion iM. However, the Scion brand as a whole was scrapped and the iM turned into the Toyota Corolla iM for 2017.
Toyota has plans to develop a new box on wheels. These “e-Palettes” are described as “fully-automated, next generation battery electric vehicle[s] designed to be scalable and customizable for a range of Mobility as a Service businesses.” Or in other words, cute cargo containers. The e-Palettes conception includes partnerships with Amazon, Pizza Hut, and Uber. Might a roving, autonomous box deliver breakfast with a side of toast? We’ll see, as Toyota hopes to release the vehicles in time for the 2020 Olympics in Tokyo.
Mount Airy and Toyota Today
Though our town may no longer be the Toaster Capital of the World, we have other interesting claims to fame. Our address of 508 North Andy Griffith Parkway, Mount Airy, NC heralds the birthplace of Andy Griffith and his friendly town of Mayberry. Our dealership, Mount Airy Toyota, is Surry County’s flagship dealer with an award-winning sales team. In fact, you Mayberry well find our selection and service is even better than sliced bread.
