The Supra is coming back. Everybody clap your hands.
A Little History
Toyota launched the Supra in 1978 and it had a good run until 2002. Its design was derived from Toyota’s Celica, but in 1986 the A70 Supra was launched and distinguished itself from the earlier Supra version. Toyota’s race car designs go all the way back to the 2000GT.
We saw the first generation A40, from ‘78-’81, followed by the A60 second generation that ran until 1986. The A70 hit the roads from 1986-1993, and its final run, the A80 and its fourth generation, saw the streets from 1993-2002. That was the last we saw of the Supra—until now. The fifth generation is on its way, and it will be all we could hope for.
The good news is, the new Supra will debut to the public in February 2019 in Daytona, where we will see what Toyota has landed on with its design, its capabilities, and its final look. We got a peek of the Supra at the Geneva Motor Show, but that was just that—a peek. NASCAR’s Daytona race will show us what the Supra can really do. The racecar we will see at Daytona will translate into a driveable sports car for America in 2019. Let’s look at what’s coming.
Supra Racing
Unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show in March 2018, and in partnership with BMW, Toyota’s GR Supra Racing Concept racecar was modeled on the 2014 FT-1 concept. But what we can all drive (the 5th generation Supra, proper) will launch in its newest form in the Spring. The Supra still has as much mystery attached to it as what we do know. Details are going to be a surprise, but we can confirm that a four-cylinder will be available along with 6-cylinder, as one would expect for a sports car. And Toyota may offer a manual option on the Supra, in addition to automatic transmission.
In Madrid, Road & Track along with the Australian Car Advice asked assistant chief engineer Masayuki Kai about a manual transmission model. Kai told them “It purely depends on the reaction of the market.”
So for those stick-shift enthusiasts that really want to put that horsepower to good use, we can only hope that we get that manual transmission. Kai assured that “If, for example, U.S. customers are demanding strongly that Supra needs a manual-transmission car, then we will plan for it.” For those longing for the versatility and full control of a manual transmission, we can only hope that Toyota finds in the American market a solid demand for the stick.
What’s Coming Next
They’ve been teasing America with the possibility of a new Supra for a few years now, but we are going to see it, finally. And it’s going to be a sexy revision of what they had years ago. We will see a new model with sleek lines, a low-to-the-road ride, and 225 to 320 horsepower. It will have a tighter, smaller frame (length at 172.4 inches, 73 inches in width, and standing 50.8 inches high) with a low center of gravity. Lower, in fact, than most of the other sports cars on the market. As a matter of fact, its center of gravity is lower than the Lamborghini Aventador. The only thing out there lower that the upcoming Supra, for its CG, is the Porsche 911 GT3 RS.
The Supra will weigh almost 3,300 pounds and have a 97.2 inch wheelbase. With a pronounced nose and a ducktail spoiler, the Supra will breeze through air resistance and make for a dynamic driving experience. It has a 50:50 weight distribution. All in the package of a stiff A90 chassis.
It will have rear-wheel drive, a great bonus from the collaboration between BMW and Toyota. Since 2012, the two companies have worked together to work on things like rear-wheel drive in sports cars, lithium batteries, and revamped engines. And the Toyota Supra will come out blazing as a brilliant product of this collaboration. Those wheels will be driven by a turbocharged, 3.0 liter, inline-six engine. And the price? Around $40,000 for a smooth, zippy ride.
They are taking the vintage Supra of the late 1990s and revamping it. To hype up our sneak peek, they camouflaged it in their test drive reveal. The 5th generation of the Supra, when first revealed at its test drive, looked to battleships of the First World War for its camouflage design inspiration. Dan Beckett, Head of Art at Toyota Europe, said: “During our research we looked at the dazzle camouflage applied to battle ships in the First World War. The effect of these bold, intersecting geometric patterns was not to hide the boat’s existence but disguise its shape and even the direction it was facing.” The trick that the camouflage played on the eyes hid from us all that the Supra’s shape and design will promise, but we will soon see it in its full glory.
Beckett continues, “But we also drew inspiration from the Toyota Gazoo Racing livery, which uses large black-and-red trapezoidal shapes set on a white background. And the most recognizable visual cue in motorsport—the waving chequered flag.” The response on social media and among Supra fans has been to ask for a camouflage paint option, when the Supra becomes available in 2019 to the masses.
And Supra enthusiasts, who have moaned the loss of the model in 2002, can only cheer at its return. The Supra, historically, has been a more affordable sportscar positioned in contrast to the more expensive Italian rivals. So, the Supra’s return fills in a gap missing in the car market—and its one that needs to be filled. And though it will debut to the public in 2019, it may not be available for purchase until 2020.
Those few privileged enough to test drive the protoype in Madrid have issued glowing reports. Botchi Santos at motioncar.com reports, “The Supra felt divine on all these roads. A quick spring to 240 km/h was indeed jail-baiting, but to my defense, I was simply keeping up with the general speed of traffic on the highway.” Think of it: divine driving. Speed, ease of driving, a responsive wheel—all things we value in a sports car.
Santos still owns as 1996 Supra—a targa-top, twin turbo 6-speed model 2JZ-GTE engine—so what he says next should make us all really take note: “Neither does it feel like my Supra, which is heavy and somewhat sluggish in comparison. It feels alert, responsive and playful, without being frisky, edgy and nervous. You know it has your back.” The fifth generation Supra will squeal past its predecessor with ease and speed.
Santos wraps it up nicely when he offers: “If there’s one thing you should keep in mind when considering the MKV Supra, it’s that you shouldn’t think of it as a reboot. Instead, think of it as a reset.”
Though they wrapped the Toyota Supra in camouflage when we first saw it, the reveal at Daytona in a few months is going to be worth the wait. At Mount Airy Toyota, we are ready.
It’s not too often the case that someone hears the words “Toyota Corolla” and thinks, “Ohhh, exciting!” Long known as an entry-point to the car-maker’s reputation for reliability, the Corolla is the oldest name in Toyota’s current inventory, aside from the Land Cruiser. There have been close to 45 million Corollas sold worldwide — thus it is ubiquitous exactly because it is the most popular car line in history. But what was once a quiet, innocuous little sedan has gotten a tune up.
“With the 2019 Toyota Corolla Hatchback, the carmaker fashions a substantial reminder that a small car with a rear hatch and a little attitude can be immensely appealing,” writes Kelly Blue Book.
Once known as the iM, the brand new Corolla Hatchback is designed to be fun to drive. The 168 hp engine with 155 lb-ft of torque features 6-speed Intelligent Manual Transmission with close-ratio gears down low for acceleration and taller gears up top for better fuel economy. The ground-hugging body is mounted on MacPherson struts in front and a trailing-wishbone rear suspension for better control and less body roll. Disc brakes, all-season tires, and active cornering assist add punch to the overall stop and go.
A hatchback in and of itself has greater capabilities than a sedan. It’s more flexible in terms of what it can carry, provided more vertical trunk space without the restrictive back window shelf of a sedan. The 2019 Corolla Hatchback has 17.8 cubic ft. of cargo volume — the standard 2018 and 2019 Corolla sedans offer only 13.0 cubic ft. and compared to SUVs on the market now the 2018 Mazda CX-3 has a cargo volume of only 12.4 cubic ft.
Another Corolla Hatchback cool factor is its wearable connectivity. Got a smartwatch? Why not use it to locate your vehicle, lock or unlock the doors, or even start the engine — features perfect for warming up the engine before work on a cold, mountain day. Of course, there are also available heated seats and an available 8-speaker, 800-watt sound system to make the ride even more fun.
“The main creature comforts of the Corolla have been admirably handled. The interior feels good, with no demerits or obviously cut corners. Road noise is commendably attenuated, and the Corolla is comfortable even for 6-foot adults with a little meat on their bones,” reports Digital Trends.
Toyota doesn’t sacrifice fun for function. The 2019 Corolla Hatchback comes with Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, which includes a pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, lane-departure alert, and even road sign assist, which uses an intelligent camera to detect speed limit signs, stop signs, and yield signs and display feedback on the multimedia screen.
“Overall, the 2019 hatchback model is a pleasantly surprising piece of work, roomy, premium and loaded with great features,” reports AutoGuide.
The 2019 Toyota Corolla Hatchback is just rolling out to dealer lots now — late summer 2018 — but if you’re eager to build your own, Mount Airy Toyota can make that happen. Give us a call at 336.786.2118 to discuss available features and, if a new car isn’t quite what you’re looking for, we can find the right used vehicle for you.
“When a man carries a gun all the time, the respect he thinks he’s getting might really be fear. So I don’t carry a gun because I don’t want the people of Mayberry to fear a gun. I’d rather they respect me.” — Andy Taylor
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Sometimes we long for small towns and more simple times. Back when we knew our neighbors and all the town’s comings and goings, bake sales and talent shows were big events and we could count on meeting a friend at the grocery or hardware store. Nostalgia conjures up a place not unlike Mayberry — that fictional town where Mount Airy-native Andy Griffith was born and raised and where, for nearly 30 years now, a festival celebrates bygone days.
Mayberry Days, held Sept. 24-30 in historic Mount Airy, is a family-oriented festival featuring a parade, live music, comedy shows, a slew of contests including pie-eating, pork chop sandwich-eating, and a checkers tournament, educational lectures, Andy Griffith movies, and special guests from the Mayberry show. It’s about as wholesome as you can get.
As an expression of gratitude to the local community, Mount Airy Toyota is an annual festival sponsor. Be sure to look for Mount Airy Toyota at the festival — you may even see one of our cars in the parade. The parade is a festival highlight with appearances from esteemed luminaries including the Pickle Queen, Potato Queen, and Pork Princess, a marching band, vintage squad cars, and a cow wearing shoes.
Want to get in on some of all the action? Consider the apple peeling competition, which harkens back to an episode of The Andy Griffith Show in which Andy peels an apple in one long, curly strip. If you’re hungry, enter the pork chop sandwich-eating competition and try to beat the record of eight. Know-it-alls will want to be part of the trivia contests, while those with a nine-iron on their shoulder can play in the Mayberry Days Golf Tournament (aka The Emmett).
Take in a show at the Historic Earle Theater, an old-time music hall and stage that’s been entertaining folks since 1938. Throughout the year, the theater features exhibits, an audio-guided tour, lessons, and workshops. During Mayberry Days, you can catch comedy from The Mouth of Mayberry, John Floyd, on stage, reminisce with Memories of Elvis, and join in a discussion about “Murder in Coweeta County,” a 1983 film about a true crime in which Griffith takes a turn playing the villain to Johnny Cash’s sheriff. On Sept. 28 the theater welcomes the best in bluegrass and Americana for the Beyond the Blue Ridge series, and on Dec. 29 there will be a dance.
For a full schedule of Mayberry Days activities as well as tickets and competition registration, visit surryarts.org/mayberrydays.
While you’re in town, come on by the dealership and visit us too. We’ve got great specials on new and used cars plus military and college discounts. You can find us at 508 North Andy Griffith Parkway, online at mountairytoyota.com, or just give us a call at 336.786.2118. We’ll be happy to take you out for a test drive or, if you find yourself in a bind, ring up our service department and we’ll make any needed repairs. You might even go ahead and watch “Barney’s First Car” to get you in the automobile shopping mood.
The heat of summer can do a number on your car, and at Mount Airy Toyota we know that higher temperatures outside mean a greater demand for nice, cool air conditioning inside. While every service appointment includes a multi-point inspection, chances are that you will be the one to notice if your AC isn’t working like it should.
The first automotive air conditioning was invented in 1939 and was offered as a factory-installed option in 1940. It took almost 30 years though for air conditioning to really catch on — by 1969 only half of all new cars sold had it. We hope some of the folks in Mount Airy had one of the few cars with air conditioning back in July 1954 when the local weather station off Bluff Road measured the Surry County’s highest temperature on record at 105 degrees. The highest temperature ever recorded in the month of August was 103 degrees in 1930, according to the North Carolina Climate Office.
You may remember air conditioning units once used freon. Researchers found that the refrigerant damaged the ozone, and consequently it was banned from use in all cars made after 1996. However, air conditioning still works essentially the same way by using refrigerant in gaseous and liquid forms to cool the air and remove humidity.
There are three main parts to a typical vehicle’s air conditioning: the compressor, condenser, and evaporator.
Compressor: A belt attached to the engine’s crankshaft drives the compresser, which is a pump. The pump draws in gaseous refrigerant and forces it out to the condenser.
Condenser: As the refrigerant moves from the compressor to the condenser it passes through a small reservoir containing desiccants. You’ve probably seen little packets of desiccants in new shoe boxes or purses. The desiccant does the same thing it does in that shoe box or purse — removes moisture. The refrigerant then enters the condenser as a pressurized gas, which creates heat. Air flowing around the twisting tubes of the condenser cools the refrigerant down until it forms a liquid again.
Evaporator: The evaporator is located inside your vehicle’s cabin rather than the engine compartment. Liquid refrigerant enters the evaporator and the heat of the car turns it back into a gas. A fan blows over the evaporator coil, blowing cool air into the car.
Note that hybrid vehicles do not operate quite the same way as traditional vehicles. Those like the hybrid Avalon, Camry, Highlander, Mirai, Prius and RAV4 (yep, there are hybrid versions of the Highlander and RAV4) use an electric compressor that relies on power from car’s high-voltage battery. Never try to work on a hybrid vehicle’s air conditioning without training! (And speaking of the Prius, if you haven’t seen the new 2018 Prius Prime, you really should. It has a 640-mile total driving range and you can charge it at home with a standard outlet.)
While it will take any car some time to cool down after being parked in the hot sun, you should pay attention to whether or not your AC is coming out cold and fast. Do you notice that cold air isn’t coming out of the vents with much force? Is the air not very cold at all?
If you notice one of these problems, schedule a service appointment to have your air conditioning checked. You may also want to take us up on one of our service center coupons which may include discounts on oil changes, batteries, tire rotation, and touch-up paint. You can reach our service department at 336.786.2118 and find us at 508 N. Andy Griffith Pkwy. in Mount Airy, N.C.
It was June 6, 1933 when the nation’s first drive-in movie theater opened. Originally called “park-in” theaters, the notion of moving going in an automobile came from Richard Hollingshead, a movie fan and a sales manager at his father’s company, Whiz Auto Products, in Camden, N.J. It was the worst year of the Great Depression and yet it was the first year for the Mount Airy Toyota car brand.
According to the History Channel, Hollingshead’s mother struggled to sit comfortably in traditional movie theater seats. He dreamed up the drive-in theater as a solution and tinkered with the concept in his home driveway, before earning a patent in May 1933 and opening Park-In Theaters, Inc. with an initial investment of $30,000. (As a sidenote: Toyota didn’t release its first car until 1936.)Going to the movies was something at least relatively affordable for young folks and families.
“Advertising it as entertainment for the whole family, Hollingshead charged 25 cents per car and 25 cents per person, with no group paying more than one dollar,” the History Channel writes on its blog.
With the price of inflation, that single dollar amounts to about $18 today.
Drive-in movie theaters may be responsible for helping drive the ability to listen to music in your car today. RCA developed the first in-car speaker in 1941.
By 1949, Hollingshead’s patent was overturned, and drive-in theaters gained enormous popularity all over the country.
“The popularity of the drive-in spiked after World War II and reached its heyday in the late 1950s to mid-60s, with some 5,000 theaters across the country,” writes the History Channel. “Drive-ins became an icon of American culture, and a typical weekend destination not just for parents and children but also for teenage couples seeking some privacy.”
Two of the smallest drive-ins in the 1950s were Highway Drive-In in Bamberg, S.C., which had room for 50 cars, and Twilight Drive-In in Nakina, N.C., which had room for 60 cars. In comparison, theaters in Michigan and Texas held 3,000. Mount Airy once even had its own drive-in, the Bright Leaf, that opened in 1955 and held 300 cars.
Today there aren’t many drive-in theaters left, but just about an hour away, in Eden, N.C. is one of the remaining few. The Eden Drive-In has been open since 1949. There’s parking for 200 cars, and visitors still pick up the movie’s audio on their FM radios. A little more than an hour in the opposite direction and across the Virginia border is Park Place Drive-In, which also features a miniature golf course and ice cream shop.
We think that a trip to the drive-in is a great way to get the family together whether it’s in a 2018 Sienna or 4Runner, or perhaps just a trip for two in an all new, 86 or Tacoma.
Can’t make it to the drive-in but still want a bit of cinema history? Mount Airy’s Earl Theatre was one of the premiere sites for Gone With the Wind in 1939 and Andy Griffith used to go to movies there as a child.
Toyota’s C-HR Wins Top Safety Ratings as Eye-Catching New Addition to the Crossover Market
Need to tote around 1,500 venti Starbucks cups or 150 bowling balls? Have we got the compact SUV for you!
Toyota C-HR Unveiled at LA Auto Show
Some cars are more visually distinctive than others. At Mount Airy Toyota, we have the brand new 2018 Toyota C-HR on the lot, and we can’t stop looking at it.
This coupe high rider (hence the C-HR name) is Toyota’s new entry to the crossover/small SUV category. It’s a vehicle that’s not a sedan, not a wagon, and not for heading off road. But when it comes to running around town with a little more height to your undercarriage, the C-HR is rated at 27 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway, which beats the RAV-4, Ford Escape, and Mazda CX-3 while being on par with the Honda CR-V. There’s rumor of a hybrid C-HR engine in 2019.
The C-HR seats five and has folding back seats with a 60/40 split. Folding down the seats gives 36.4 cubic feet of space – enough to hold more than 1,500 venti Starbucks cups or 150 bowling balls, if you’re in to that kind of thing.
The C-HR 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.
“The C-HR is smaller and more affordable than the RAV4. In fact, it was originally developed for Toyota’s now-defunct Scion brand, which largely explains the C-HR’s flamboyant styling and sporty handling. These two key attributes, along with the extensive list of standard safety features, are the main reasons to consider the C-HR in our opinion,” writes Cameron Rogers of Edmunds.
Edmunds named the C-HR as one of the Best Small SUVs for 2018.
The C-HR comes with Toyota Safety Sense suite, which includes integrated turn signal mirrors, pre-collision alert with pedestrian detection, lane departure warning, lane assist, automatic high beams, and adaptive cruise control plus a rearview camera as standard features. We love the standard hill start assist, which is great for mountain driveways. Rear cross traffic alert and blind spot monitoring are optional. The C-HR earned a five-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Transportation Safety Board and one of the highest predicted reliability ratings in its class: a 4.5 out of five from J.D. Power.
Because the C-HR is, above all else, a Toyota, and Toyota’s are built to last.
“It’s taken for granted that a Toyota will work for decades without costing too much or breaking a lot,” writes Dan Roth of Forbes.
Reliability is underappreciated until one is left standing on the side of the road in the middle of nowhere. Plus the C-HR, like all Toyotas, comes with Toyota Care – a free program that provides 24-hour roadside assistance for 2 years and unlimited miles as well as covers normal factory scheduled service for 2 years or 25,000 miles, whichever comes first.
Like the Nissan Juke, Subaru Baja, and Pontiac Aztec before it, the C-HR is unique. Marketing materials call it: “Distinctive Diamond … matchless, sexy, muscular and edgy.” The suspension system was designed for a sporty ride, according to Toyota deputy chief engineer Hiro Koba, a race car enthusiast; however, the C-HR takes 11 seconds to go 0 to 60 and 18.4 seconds to do the quarter-mile. It’s got a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with 144 horsepower and a continuously variable transmission (CVT). Note that a CVT technically doesn’t have gears which is why drivers don’t feel shifts like in a normal car. Instead RPMs run higher for acceleration, lower for cruising.
So is the C-HR fun to drive? It depends on who you ask.
“Driving the C-HR is a surprise,” Roth writes. “It’s stiff and solid, the steering is precise, and the ride is controlled. Careful suspension tuning included laps at the famous-to-car-people Nürburgring race track, where all the best Continental sports cars turn their wheels. Whatever secret sauce imparted by a racetrack in southwestern Germany and Deputy Chief Engineer Hiro Koba’s obsessive efforts has paid off.”
All C-HRs come wearing 18-inch wheels inside 225/50R-18 all-season tires with “Vortex” styling.
The C-HR engine may not have the most pull for passing – plus the car weighs 300 pounds more than an all-wheel drive Mazda CX-3 – but what it lacks in acceleration it makes up for in cornering.
“It really does handle tight turns quite nicely, with little body roll and excellent control,” writes Scott Evans of MotorTrend.
After all, a car with so much edge isn’t going to roll. How edgy? Toyota put the C-HR’s rear door handles at the top of the door – no little kiddos creeping into the backseat of this thing! That said, the backseat will indeed hold a baby’s car seat, if you decide to intentionally put one there.
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. Full body colors selections include the blue and red plus Black Sand Pearl, Magnetic Grey Metallic, Silver Knockout Metallic, and Blizzard Pearl. Clear coat paint protection for the hood and doors is an option.
On the lot right now at Mount Airy Toyota, we have three CH-Rs: one in Blizzard Pearl, one in Silver Knockout Metallic, and one with the special R-Code paint treatment in Blue Eclipse. Both XLE Premium models, the cars have smart key, push button start. There’s just something cool about push button start – it’s like launching a rocket into space.
The C-HR’s other technology includes 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.
Inside the leather-trimmed steering wheel, dual zone climate control, and six-way adjustable, heated seats, enrich the C-HR’s environment. The C-HR does not offer leather seats.
What the C-HR lacks in features – there’s no Apple CarPlay or Android Auto – it looks to make up for next year. A Toyota exec has said the 2019 C-HR will get Apple CarPlay when it arrives in a few months, according to The Torque Report. The connectivity is supposed to be added to other Toyota models – including the Avalon, Corolla, and RAV4 – as well.
Come to Mount Airy Toyota to test drive this C-HR in Blue Eclipse Metallic.
The C-HR comes in under $25,000. On our lot, the three premium models run $24,385, $23,885, and $23,275 with the savings specials currently offered including a financing offer and $500 bonus cash, which expires in early July. Schedule a test drive and calculate payments on our website to get started on bringing a brand new C-HR home with you.
The C-HR is the kind of car that isn’t designed for everybody but may be designed just for you.
“This hodgepodge of parts and pieces is a genre-bender that can warp your face into a smile,” writes Roth.
If the C-HR turns out not to be the SUV for you, Mount Airy Toyota has plenty else from which to choose. We have new and used Highlanders, RAV4s, 4Runners, and more. Need a sedan, four wheel drive, or a truck? We’ve got that covered too.
Call us today at 336.786.2118 or come by 508 N. Andy Griffith Parkway, Mount Airy, N.C. 27030.
Toyota is revving up their crossover vehicle game with some snazzy upgrades for 2019! Mount Airy Toyota has the very popular and loved 2017 Toyota RAV4 on their lot but you haven’t seen anything yet. The 2017 RAV4 has become quite a popular vehicle for Toyota. With the new car buying trends leaning towards crossover vehicles, 2019 is going to be a game changer for Toyota and Mount Airy Toyota can’t wait to have the new model on their lot.
The Toyota RAV4 is known for its excellent pricing which is second to none. The Toyota RAV4 is one of the most cost effective crossover vehicles with sport energy and SUV style. In addition to the unbeatable price, the 2019 model will have some wonderful new upgrades and additions including:
Power: Rumor has it that the next generation Toyota RAV4 will be geared up with power. The 2019 Toyota RAV4 is expected to have a 4-cylinder engine and a six-speed transmission. The engine and power that the new 2019 Toyota RAV4 is predicted to be similar to the 2018 Toyota Camry. Both vehicles are increasing their ability to hit 60 mph in a quick and timely manner. The 2019 Toyota RAV4 is expected to have 176 horsepower and 172 pounds per feet of torque.
Fuel Efficiency: The Toyota RAV4 Hybrid vehicle will definitely be returning in 2019. The vehicle will likely move from a 6-clinder engine to a 4-cylinder engine. Hybrid vehicles are most known for their excellent fuel economy; Toyota is making all versions of the next generation Toyota RAV4 better in gas millage. The vehicle will carry less weight, have a new air-liquid intercooler, and a new exhaust and suspension system. These improvements will all work together to provide better gas millage in the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid.
Off-Roading Capabilities: These features are still yet to be fully determined but the 2019 Toyota RAV4 is expected to have some new and upgraded off-roading capabilities. The vehicle is designed to be a sporty outdoor vehicle that is made for both family and work occasions but also has a wild and adventurous side. The SUV style car will have the capability to ride off-road for an exciting thrill.
The release of the 2019 Toyota RAV4 is undetermined at this time but this next generation vehicle still has a while before it will be released. In the meantime, Mount Airy Toyota encourages you to check out the 2017 Toyota RAV4 or the newest Toyota crossover, the 2018 Toyota C-HR.
By: Grayson Collins
CCP Web Design
Mount Airy Toyota’s Thomas Williamson and His Personal Toyota Tundra!
Thomas Williamson is the General Sales Manager at Mount Airy Toyota. He enjoys being able to work for the best Toyota dealership in the southeast. Thomas is a truck lover and drives his own Toyota Tundra. With a passion for cars, a love for trucks, and kind heart to help others, working in the car industry is the perfect fit for him.
Working with Scott McCorkle
Thomas has worked in the automotive industry for a couple of decades and has experienced many different environments. Before joining Scott McCorkle, Thomas worked at a Chevrolet dealership. He has been working with Scott McCorkle for three years and recently moved from Mount Airy Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram, also owned by Scott McCorkle, to Mount Airy Toyota in November.
Thomas enjoys working with Scott McCorkle and values the different experiences he has gained from working at many different dealerships and with a lot of different people. He says that Scott McCorkle is the hardest working and the most involved dealer he has ever worked with. Mr. McCorkle owns several dealerships but works hard to stay involved with each one. Thomas enjoys weekly calls and monthly meetings with Scott McCorkle. Thomas says that Scott McCorkle is, “very straightforward, honest, and fair; he really takes care of his customers and that is why I was drawn to working for him.”
Thomas’s Family
Thomas Williamson loves his new position at Mount Airy Toyota. It has given him the opportunity to work with two of his sons. Thomas is happily married and has three kids and one grandchild. Working in management for the automotive industry runs in the family: Ryan Williamson works as the Business Manager and Josh Williamson works as the Finance Manager at Mount Airy Toyota.
Being a part of the car industry for many years has given Thomas the opportunity to drive many different vehicles. Thomas says, “Our top vehicle is Toyota Camry, it is a classic sedan vehicle that is well known and loved.”
Thomas appreciates the classic Toyota Camry but his real love is his love for trucks.
The Toyota Tundra
Thomas’s favorite vehicle is the Toyota Tundra. He has his own personal Toyota Tundra that he drives and loves it, “I love the exterior design of the Toyota Tundra it gives the truck a bold look that I love, and it has excellent towing capability.”
The Exterior
The Toyota Tundra has a bold exterior which is what differentiates it from other trucks. The new 2018 Toyota Tundra has a new Toyota Racing Development (TRD) Sport style. Toyota has a special in-house team that is dedicated to making sure every TRD vehicle is made ready to hit the roads. The new style includes:
New HoneyComb-Style Grille- The grille of a truck says a lot about the vehicle and the person who drives it. The new TRD Sport’s Honeycomb-Style Grille will not disappoint.
LED Headlights- These lights are brighter and more effective than any model before. With Daytime Running Lights, it gives the truck an aggressive look and feel.
Sport-Tuned Suspension- The new suspension has TRD front and rear sway bars and Bilstein dampers. These neat aspects work to help the truck preform with excellence and give you a smooth ride and great turns.
Towing and Hauling
The Toyota Tundra at Mount Airy Toyota has it all. This truck is made for both work and play with an excellent payload and towing capabilities. The 2018 Toyota Tundra is built for towing and hauling. Whether you are hauling a trailer for landscaping or towing a boat for vacation, this vehicle will help you with its ability to tow up to 10,000 pounds. The Toyota Tundra’s towing abilities are professional-grade with features like:
A Combination Meter- Staggered, outboard-mounted shocks, and a heavy-duty TripleTech frame. The truck also has a combination meter that features a voltmeter, coolant temperature, fuel, and engine oil pressure gauges.
38-Gallon Fuel Tank- Be prepared for long hauls with the 38-gallon tank. Don’t waste time filling up the tank every day, this tank will last longer for longer trips and less time at the pump.
TOW/Haul Mode- The Toyota Tundra has a 4-/7-pin connector in the rear bumper, this makes it easy for you to hook up a compatible trailer and go. The TOW/HAUL Mode holds lower gears longer for increased throttle, pulling power, and engine braking.
The interior
Trucks are usually all about how the exterior looks and how the truck performs. So many brands forget how important and valuable a nice, luxurious, and comfortable interior is when finding the perfect truck. The engineers of the Toyota Tundra had comfort and luxury in mind when they developed the interior of the 2018 Toyota Tundra in addition to exterior and performance features. From comfortable seats to plenty of space, they nailed it with these features:
Platinum Interior– The inside of the Toyota Tundra is as bold and striking as the outside. With the Platinum CrewMax seating, every trip can be relaxing and comfortable AND stylish.
CenterConsole– The optional center console comes standard with the available front bucket seats. With the center console, you will have a covered storage compartment and a 12V auxiliary power outlet right within your reach.
Fold-Up Rear Seats– To provide more space in the back seat, both the Double Cab and CrewMax fold up. This setup allows for more room than folded down seats provide and is an easy way to load cargo into the truck.
Thomas Williamson loves his Toyota Tundra and would love to help you find the right Toyota vehicle for you. The Toyota Tundra is the best fall truck on the market. With a bold exterior, strong towing capabilities, and a comfortable and spacious interior, truck lovers can’t resist the Toyota Tundra. For more information on the Toyota Tundra visit Thomas and his crew at Mount Airy Toyota or give the store a call at [di_dealer_option phone_sales=“”].
By: Grayson Collins
CCP Web Design
Every year there are new car buying trends to look forward to and follow. New obsessions to read and research about. And if you haven’t been in the car buying market in a while, things have definitely changed from even just a few years ago. For instance, you can expect to see larger vehicles nowadays. Even the compact sedans are built on bulkier frames. You will find plenty of technology incorporated to make the driving experience more entertaining and productive and hands-free. You will also see a determination to fulfill the consumers’ desire for the perfect ride. Needless to say, 2017 is a highly innovative year for the vehicle industry, and at Mount Airy Toyota we have just what everyone is talking about these days.
So you need a new vehicle, and you might even have an idea of what you want. But before you begin your research, test-driving, and budgeting, it’s a good idea to find out what some of the biggest buying trends are so far this year. This can help you narrow down which vehicle will be best fit for you by finding those aspects that have become the big selling elements to today’s hottest vehicles. Whether it’s about saving gas, hands-free connectivity, or even smaller and newer versions of your favorite vehicles, new trends are always being set.
Recently, The Washington Post did a piece providing a watch list of key car-buying trends. Here are a few to look out for this year:
1. It’s Electric!
Hybrid and electric vehicles are being made at a rate higher than ever. This really is no surprise, seeing how much money and energy is being saved by those who choose to drive a car you can plug in. Who is creating these non gas-guzzlers? At the top of the list, is the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid. With cool new features and a bit more pep in its step, the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid might be this year’s hottest energy-saving vehicle. With all this manufacturing of electric cars, it must mean the demand is pretty high for them, right? Well, not exactly. At least not yet.
Even though electric and hybrid vehicles are not selling any more than they did a few years ago, there is a reason to believe the market will rise drastically. This is due to the fact that these types of cars are only getting better: they can drive longer distances, they have more power, and they are roomier, more comfortable than ever before. Electric just might be the way to go if you are mostly concerned with saving money at the gas pump. At Mount Airy Toyota, we have plenty of environmentally friendly vehicles. There is the Toyota Camry Hybrid, Toyota Avalon Hybrid, and the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid!
2. Revamping the Classics. Every year you can expect to see new renditions on the stalwart vehicles, such as Camrys and Corollas. But this year, you can expect a bit more.
Toyota has big plans for their best selling sedans. In both the Camry and the Corolla there is sure to be more technology, more comfort, and even more power. And, as always, at a great low price.
3. Big Data. To give some idea as to how much of a role technology plays within modern vehicles, the Department of Transportation recently mandated that all new vehicles must be able to “talk” with one another electronically by the year 2020. The hope is that better communication between vehicles will reduce accidents and fatalities for everyone on the road.
The high priority of technology being built into our cars is no surprise. Over the past five years especially, we have seen a huge influx in technological advances. We can connect our phones to our cars, enabling us to speak and text without moving a finger or taking our eyes off the road. We can also communicate with our cars to know when something is wrong or when our next oil change is needed. The possibilities are simply endless, and this year we are sure to see some of the most impressive advancements ever.
4. The Crossover Phase Continues. Surely you’ve seen the most recent car craze on the road: an SUV-like vehicle built on top of a car frame. It’s a great idea. It gives car drivers a feel of something bigger but is great on gas and easy to maneuver. It looks like this new type of vehicle is sticking around a bit longer.
In addition to updates on the already best-selling crossover, the Toyota RAV4, Toyota has come out with an all-new crossover, the 2018 Toyota C-HR. What’s great about the influx in the creation of crossovers is that small families have an affordable option besides a minivan. Whereas before it was the SUV or the family-van, now there is a third option that perfectly brings in the best of both worlds: comfort and a ruggedness for everyone.
5. Self-Driving Cars.
So, this is happening. No one is quite sure when it will be in effect, but most believe it will be a gradual process and won’t be complete yet for years. But, just because they are not here now, does not mean they aren’t trending. As a matter of fact, autonomous vehicles seem to be the most popular topic amongst those interested in automobiles. And this is probably because we are already beginning to see tiny elements in modern vehicles, which take the (human) driver somewhat out of the equation.
This past year there have been numerous driver-assist technologies incorporated into vehicles, especially in Toyotas. In most Toyota vehicles there are now sensors designed to alert you when you drive too close to another vehicle, or merge from your lane. The steering wheel will even begin to correct itself in some situations, giving you time to adjust and then take over. Pretty smart, huh? We even have cameras that can give a clear view of the back, sides, front, and top of your vehicle to keep you aware of all your surroundings. And if something comes into view, like a vehicle merging towards you, the car is sure to let you know. Makes you wonder if we’ll be having full-blown conversations with our vehicles in the future. Anything is possible.
Regardless of which trends are important to you and which are not, we are sure to have what you’re looking for at Mount Airy Toyota. We have the best selections of both used and new vehicles, and we are extremely excited to talk with you about all the innovative features on our sedans, crossovers, and SUVs. There has never been a better time to buy a new vehicle at Mount Airy Toyota. Stop in and test-drive something trendy and new today.
Celebrate your Independence Day in style with a new Toyota RAV4. This 4th of July, Mount Airy Toyota is having a big sale on one of our favorite SUVs and we want to find the one that fits you. Why the RAV4? Well, it is one of America’s bestselling SUVs. And, this year it is bigger, better, and more fun than ever. Whether you are heading to the mountains, the beach, or staying in town this 4th of July, make the new 2017 Toyota RAV4 your method of transportation.
When RAV4s began showing up on the roads in the early 1990s, they were compact and made with little pizazz. But they were made well and you could, and still can, find a Toyota RAV4 clucking along with over 300,000 miles under its belt. Breaks, tires, maybe a timing belt had to be changed, but that’s to be expected. The guts were still intact and operating as they should. Something you just don’t see in many vehicles made today. The 2017 Toyota RAV4 keeps its respected stamina and adds a tougher looking exterior, more comfortable interior, and showcases some impressive performance. Toyota’s RAV4 has only gotten better with time, and this year we find one with a bit more pluck and intuitive design than its predecessors.
Performance
The RAV4 does something that just about no other compact SUV maker would dare attempt: RAV4 comes with a hybrid version. That’s right, there are two big choices to make before you go through all the features and add-ons. Do you want a hybrid or gas? And the answer to this mostly depends on the level of performance you need. But which one is more powerful? You will be surprised.
Let’s begin with the non-hybrid. The 2017 RAV4 comes with a 2.5-liter, inline-4 engine that has up to 176-horsepower. Oh, and it gets great gas mileage. It offers an all-wheel-drive system, which has electric controls that tell the rear wheels when to kick in, so that they are not needlessly running every time you go for a spin. On the road, the RAV4 is as smooth as ever and fun to drive. And with the inline-4, you get a little extra boost. The RAV4 hugs sharp turns and scoots in and around town like a pro.
Now for the hybrid. Believe it or not, this version actually has more power than the base, gas model. This electric-gas powered machine operates with a 2.5-liter, 4-cylinder engine. And it has up to 194-horsepower! The engine is paired with a Hybrid Synergy Drive System, which helps the vehicle to know when and when not to use gas. The RAV4 hybrid also comes with all-wheel-drive, and gives the same smooth, sweet ride as its gas-only counterpart.
Safety
In terms of safety, Toyota has made many improvements in the 2017 Mount Airy Toyota RAV4. And not that they were bad before. RAV4s have always scored high in this department, but the newest version seems to get it perfect. The 2017 model has what Toyota calls, “Toyota Safety Systems.” This combination of safety mechanisms makes the RAV4’s safety ratings soar with forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking (just in case your foot can’t make it to the brake pedal in time), lane-departure alert, adaptive cruise control, automatic high beams, and pedestrian pre-collision. Not bad, huh? And there are plenty more.
You don’t have to take our word for it. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) gave the 2017 RAV4 its highest safety scores, plus Top Safety Pick for this year. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration also gave the compact SUV high ratings, further proving the RAV4 to be a stalwart leader in a continually growing family of crossover vehicles.
The 2017 RAV4’s line of safety features include a total of eight airbags, a rearview camera, a surround-view camera, plus the impressive safety systems previously mentioned. And what better peace of mind to have this 4th of July than knowing you are driving around with some of the most high-tech safety features made.
Comfort
RAV4s, even the old ones, have never lacked in the area of comfort. And this year it just gets better. At the new Platinum trim level you can now opt for all the usual upgrades, plus a heated steering wheel. You can also get Toyota’s SofTex upholstery, which has the look and feel of leather but comes at a fraction of the cost. But no matter which trim level of RAV4 you choose, you will be comfortable. The driver’s seat sits perfectly upright, but still manages to cradle and keep you comfy. You have a perfect view of the road, everything is at arms length, yet somehow you feel as though you are somewhat reclining. It’s nice. Really nice.
All entryways and exits are easily accessible, and it offers plenty of cargo space with a section below the floor, and a liftgate. Whereas the RAV4 of old could truly be considered a small, crossover vehicle, the 2017 model leans more towards the end of medium/large SUV. And this shift greatly helps in way of space and comfort. With a smooth, quiet ride, soft interior lighting, and soft-touch materials throughout, you can’t beat the new RAV4.
Features
Toyota has turned the RAV4 into one of those vehicles that can come with a seemingly unlimited number of features to add or alter. This is a good thing, as you can end up driving away with something truly tailored to you. But it does take some time to figure out exactly what you want. That’s why it’s a great idea to come down to Mount Airy Toyota where we can help you through the process of picking out your perfect RAV4.
Here are just a few of the features offered with the 2017
RAV4:
Interior LED Lighting.
Toyota’s Infotainment System.
Dual-Zone Automatic Climate Control.
Paddle Shifters.
A Unique Front Bumper and Grille Design.
Power Everything.
JBL Speakers.
Entune App Connectivity.
And there are so many more. You can use hands-free calling and texting. Can even use the OpenTable app to make dinner reservations while on the way to the restaurant! The possibilities become endless the more car companies are able to connect our vehicles with our smartphones. And Toyota seems to be one of the carmakers leading the way.
Fuel Economy
One of the greatest things about driving a crossover SUV is that they know how to conserve fuel without losing power in performance. The 2017 RAV4 gets around 23 miles per gallon in the city and 30 mpg on the highway. Not bad at all. Especially with the power this thing has. What this equates to is a family-fun sport utility vehicle that requires less trips to the gas station. And, if you go for the RAV4 hybrid, there is even better fuel economy.
Toyota seems to think of it all, performance, safety, comfort, and fuel economy. Those are the big ones for any vehicle, and the RAV4 gets top marks on every one. So why wait any longer? Start deciding on your RAV4 today so you can take it out with friends and family this 4th of July in Mount Airy, NC.
