If you’re in Hatfield, make sure to try some tasty Greek cuisine while in town. Here are the top three to pick from.

Opa Gyros

Rated highly for its service and value, Opa Gyros will start your meal with free pita bread and olive oil. You can then choose a traditional Greek salad, lemon potatoes, and more. Their Lamb Souvlaki and Spanakopita plate are both popular choices among regular customers. A variety of gyros are available as well, and you can always order baklava for dessert to top the meal off.

Yanni’s Gyros

For authentic Greek food, visit Yanni’s Gyros. Many people even say it tastes better than the food they’ve had in Greece! They have affordable prices and large portions, which their customers rave about. Try the stuffed tomatoes and grilled octopus while you’re there. They have traditional meat dishes such as a lamb kabob, but also have seafood and vegetarian options available.

Zoes Kitchen

If you’re craving Greek food but also trying to eat a bit healthier, Zoes Kitchen has what you need. They put a unique twist on their food, such as their Power Grain Bowl with tzatziki, lentils, and quinoa, or their Chicken Salad and Fruit Plate meal. Chicken and beef kabobs are offered in addition to salmon and shrimp kabobs. The Hummus and Salad plate can be split as an appetizer or made into an entree for one person.

From Greek salads to gyros to spanakopita, there is no shortage of Greek food in Hatfield.

Image via Flickr by rayb777

If you’re looking for a new car, it can be tough to decide between the 2018 RAV4 and C-HR. Here are three of the main differences to help you decide.

Safety

The RAV4 has eight air bags, including air bags for the driver and front passenger’s knees. This is compared to the C-HR that has 10 air bags in total. Other than that, they are similar when it comes to safety, as both vehicles have the Toyota Safety Sense with Lane Departure Alert and automatic brake if it senses a future collision.

Performance

If you prefer urban travel, the C-HR is more tailored for this with a 144-horsepower engine and a CV automatic. It can also be switched to manual by changing the mode. The fuel economy is rated at 31 miles per gallon on the highway and 27 miles per gallon in the city. The RAV4 has a 176-horsepower engine and was designed to combine fuel and power economy. It is rated at 30 miles per gallon on the highway. The RAV4 adventure model makes it easier to take the car off road, as this 4×4 is the most capable version of the RAV4 yet.

Aesthetics

The RAV4 has six different editions. Overall, the RAV4 is bigger than the C-HR and has more cubic feet. The vehicle has a sporty look to it on the outside, but many features inside that families will love. The C-HR is both a muscular utility hatchback and a sporty coupe.

Visit us at Peruzzi Toyota to see our inventory!


Image via Flickr by YLegrand

2019 Toyota Avalon

The Toyota Avalon has long been a go-to choice for those wanting a little luxury wrapped in Toyota reliability. The 2019 model has gotten a significant upgrade, it’s first redesign in six years. Expect a sleeker, more modern image, updated interior touches and a more powerful engine – just for starters.

The sporty exterior of the Avalon has always been appealing, but the 2019 model features a larger front grille and narrower front headlights that give it an even more dynamic presence.

While it’s always been Toyota’s biggest sedan, the 2019 Avalon has gotten even larger. Yet the ride doesn’t suffer from the change in design: Toyota’s powerful, upgraded V6 engine (with a hybrid version available), advanced performance technology and active variable suspension creates a smooth driving experience that rivals any other luxury vehicle. Plus, you can expect top-of-the-line safety technology: automatic high-beams, adaptive cruise control, automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection, lane-departure warning, and lane-keeping assist are all standard.

Now, we move on to the up-to-date interior, where the 2019 Toyota Avalon really shines. Available touches like real wood, microsuede, genuine cowhide and aluminum trim surround you and your passengers in luxury. For the first time, Toyota will offer Apple CarPlay compatibility; a 14-speaker JBL sound system is standard.  And with the Entune 3.0 infotainment system, drivers can now connect with Amazon Alexa through Remote Connect. This will allow you to do everything from opening your garage doors (assuming your home is smart-wired), to remote-starting your car, checking the weather at your destination – and a thousand other things. Opting for the Entune system also means you get a high-powered Verizon Wi-Fi hotspot and wireless charging for your devices.

The 2019 Toyota Avalon is truly a step up in the marriage of practicality and luxury. And you can experience it firsthand at Peruzzi Toyota when it arrives at our dealership later this year. If you can’t wait that long and you’re looking for a new Toyota vehicle immediately, take a look at Peruzzi Toyota’s selection of over 300 new Toyota vehicles including the 2018 Avalon. If you’re interested in a used vehicle, Peruzzi Toyota also has a huge selection of over 500 pre-owned vehicles available to residents of the Bethlehem, PA and Allentown, PA areas. Visit Peruzzi Toyota at 2601 Bethlehem Pike in Hatfield, PA to lean more or contact us today to schedule a test drive.

Toyota and Amazon Alexa Connectivity

“Alexa, do [fill in the blank]….” These words are increasingly common in homes across America. But thanks to the tech experts at Toyota, this popular voice-command tool is now being integrated into the automaker’s 2018 and 2019 models. It’s currently on display at Peruzzi Toyota.

Alexa – the wildly-popular cloud-based assistant from Amazon – is routinely used to do everything from turning on the lights to finding a particular song for a dinner-party playlist. Now, that same functionality is being included in Toyota models (that have the Entune 3.0 App Suite), so that drivers can easily access her many skills from right behind the wheel.

The inclusion of Amazon Alexa in Toyota offers drivers a whole new range of options. Besides obvious choices like finding a certain kind of radio station or music while on the road, or updating the weather where you’re headed to, the connection extends even further. The technology can offer directions, nearby restaurant options (and directions on how to get there) and much more.  And let’s not forget home: you can set reminders for the mundane like taking out the trash, or – if your home is smart-wired – have Alexa open your garage doors or turn the lights off in the living room.

Alexa – with her thousands of skills– can also remotely start your car or lock your doors. That’s just for starters.

It’s like having the world’s best assistant, one who will be anywhere you need them to be and can handle many things instantly. Toyota is leading the industry in integrating this powerful tool into automotive technology, so head over to Peruzzi Toyota to see how it all works – and discover how Alexa can make your time behind the wheel even more convenient and productive. If you’re interested in finding a vehicle that’s compatible with Alexa, take a look at Peruzzi Toyota’s collection of over 300 new Toyota vehicles available for purchase or lease. At Peruzzi Toyota, we also have over 500 pre-owned vehicles in stock for residents of the Allentown, PA and Bethlehem, PA areas. Visit us at 2601 Bethlehem Pike in Hatfield, PA or contact us to schedule a test drive today!

Toyota Highlander Safety

 

Sure, Toyota’s 2018 Highlander (available at Peruzzi Toyota) is one of the best-looking, best-performing SUVs on the road – but it has the added bonus of also being one of the safest.

From runs to the grocery store to long road trips, any journey will be better, knowing that you’re surrounded by some of the top safety technology available today. In fact, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety named it a Top Safety Pick.

While nothing is a substitute for an alert, responsible driver, the 2018 Toyota Highlander offers a full range of award-winning features that provide a powerful safety assist. The Pre-Collision System alerts you to impending crashes – and includes Pedestrian Detection. On the highway, the Lane Departure Alert system lets you know if you’re drifting, while Steering Assist will make small course corrections to help get you back on track.

Dynamic Radar Cruise Control maintains your speed, as well as a safe distance from other cars. But in case of the worst happening, the 2018 Highlander comes with a full suite of driver and front passenger side airbags, knee protection plus Whiplash-lessening seats.

Most importantly, the 2018 Toyota Highlander performed so well in crash tests, that it achieved the highest rating possible (5 stars) from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

Want to know more? Stop by Peruzzi Toyota to see for yourself how style and safety blend beautifully in the 2018 Highlander. If you’re interested in a different Toyota model, Peruzzi Toyota also has a huge selection of over 300 new Toyota vehicles in stock including SUVs, trucks, hybrids and much more. If you’re looking for a used cars, check out Peruzzi Toyota’s selection of over 500 pre-owned vehicles from every major manufacturer. Visit us at 2601 Bethlehem Pike in Hatfield, PA to take a test drive of the new 2018 Highlander or see everything else we have in stock!

Give Your Car a Spring Cleaning

 

You’ve washed windows, cleaned out closets and generally given your home a good spring cleaning. Now, what about your “other” home:  your car? Use these tips from Peruzzi Toyota to give your ride a fresh start.

First off, schedule an appointment with a trusted mechanic, like the ones at Peruzzi Toyota. They’ll check your belts and hoses, fluid levels and do an oil change. They’ll also check your air conditioning, to ensure that it works when you need it.

Now, using a soft cloth, give your car a thorough wash and wax. Get into the various cracks and crevices where winter grime can accumulate, giving wheels and hubcaps a little extra attention. You should also tighten any loose lug nuts and check tire pressure.

Check under the hood for any debris and remove it. Winter weather really does a number on your windshield wiper blades, so give them a look and replace them if needed.

Onto your car’s interior. Wipe down the console with a damp cloth, avoiding any electrical outlets. Clean out cup holders (which can get really grungy) and all other compartments that need some tidying up. Finally, give the mirrors and windows a good shine.

Between rock salt, mud and leaves, carpet and upholstery take a beating during the winter. Wipe down the seats with a damp, soft cloth and use an upholstery cleaner if necessary. Vacuum carpeted areas. Then, if things are really stained, rent a carpet-cleaning machine.

Finally, open your trunk and clean out all those things that tend to accumulate. Ensure that your spare tire is ready to go and also, that your emergency kit is up to date.

Now, you’re ready to hit the road with both confidence in your car — and pride! If in addition to your spring car cleaning, you’d like to get some spring car maintenance done, bring your vehicle in to Peruzzi Toyota for a tune up. Peruzzi Toyota’s service department will look over your car and let you know which services we recommend. If the cleaning and maintenance necessary for your vehicle are too much to keep up with, and you’d rather get a new vehicle, Peruzzi Toyota has a great selection of over 280 new Toyota vehicles in the Allentown and Bethlehem areas available for purchase or lease. Peruzzi Toyota also has a large selection of nearly 500 pre-owned vehicles available for purchase. Visit Peruzzi Toyota today at 2601 Bethlehem Pike in Hatfield, PA or give us a call at 877-545-2111.

How to Test a Car's Battery

 

The average car battery lasts about four years, depending on different factors. Want to see how yours is holding up? It’s a good idea to test your car battery before any big road trip – or, if you’ve had your vehicle awhile and want to know what’s up. This is especially critical if your car isn’t starting up right away.

Rule of thumb? According to the mechanics at Peruzzi Toyota, a twice-a-year review is optimal. So here’s how to give it a check-up.

  • First off, test your battery on a warm day (70F or higher). You’ll be doing a load test with a voltmeter. A digital version will give the most accurate reading.
  • To start, your vehicle’s engine should be off. And just to be extra-safe, wear goggles and rubber gloves to avoid any potential issues with battery acid.
  • Now, connect the Red/Positive test lead of the voltmeter to the battery’s positive terminal; connect the Black/Negative test lead to the negative terminal.
  • If the voltage reads “12.4+” or above, you’re good. (“100” or “75”% will also do).
  • To complete the process, remove the negative terminal first.

Bottom line:  a good battery is under four years old. It will easily hold a charge of 12.4 volts or more, and easily returns to a working state.

But if things are a little dodgy, it’s a smart move to get a new a battery. The experts at Peruzzi Toyota can help you out with a quick, easy install. Visit our Toyota service center to learn more about how we can help you with battery testing or battery replacement. If you’re looking for a new vehicle, look no further than Peruzzi Toyota’s huge selection of nearly 300 new Toyota vehicles available for purchase or lease near Allentown, PA and Bethlehem, PA. If you’re looking for something less expensive or from a different brand, Peruzzi Toyota also has an inventory of nearly 500 pre-owned vehicles available for purchase in Hatfield, PA. Visit us today at 2601 Bethlehem Pike in Hatfield, PA or give us a call at 877-545-2111 to learn more or schedule an appointment.

How to Change Your Oil Filter

 

You’ve probably heard that oil is the lifeblood of your vehicle. When it gets dirty, your engine suffers, that’s why regular oil changes are recommended. An essential step in the process is swapping out the old oil filter for a new one. Because otherwise, what’s the point? When it comes to removing and replacing the filter, here are a few tips, courtesy of Peruzzi Toyota.

Start by running the engine for a few minutes, so that any contaminants circulate. Shut off the engine and engage the parking brake. Locate the oil drain plug underneath your car, and place a pan or basin big enough to catch all the oil beneath it. Loosen the plug with a wrench, then remove it by hand. Allow all the oil to drain out, then replace the drain plug.

Now, tackle the oil filter. It will be filled with hot oil, so make sure the basin is in place to catch it. Loosen the old filter by turning it counterclockwise with an oil filter wrench, then removing it by hand.

You can find the correct filter for your vehicle by checking your owner’s manual or asking at the automotive parts store. Before you install it, rub a little clean oil around the rubber gasket; this will help ensure a solid fit. Screw the new filter onto the engine block by hand, being careful not to over-tighten it (a half to three-quarters of a turn should do the trick). A too-tight filter can crack and leak.

Using the recommended viscosity and using a funnel, pour in all but one quart of the new oil. Replace the cap, and run the engine to let it circulate. Turn off the car and check for any leaks (fix them as needed). Wait a few more minutes, then use a clean dipstick to check the oil level. Continue adding oil a little at a time, until it reads “full” (wiping the dipstick in between each check).

Dispose of your old oil and oil filter at your nearest oil recycling center. Any questions? The expert mechanics at Peruzzi Toyota are ready to help. Visit our Toyota service center for help with changing oil or any other maintenance task your vehicle requires. If you’re looking for a new vehicle instead, look no further than Peruzzi Toyota’s huge selection of nearly 300 new Toyota vehicles available for purchase or lease near Allentown, PA and Bethlehem, PA. If you’re looking for something less expensive or from a different brand, Peruzzi Toyota also has an inventory of nearly 500 pre-owned vehicles available for purchase in Hatfield, PA. Visit us today at 2601 Bethlehem Pike in Hatfield, PA or give us a call at 877-545-2111 to learn more or schedule an appointment.

Visiting a winery is a great way to spend an afternoon. You can often learn about the winemaking process, taste some wine, and at some places, get good food to go with it. Here are some Pennsylvania wineries worth a visit.

Stone & Key Cellars

Stone & Key Cellars produces delicious wines along with cider and mead. Head to the tasting room and order a flight so you can taste several of the products and find your favorite. This winery does not serve food, but you are welcome to bring your own, and if you go on a Friday you’ll get to listen to live music or take part in trivia night.

Boyd’s Cardinal Hollow Winery

Head to Cardinal Hollow Winery for some unique jalapeño wine. The main winery and the Lahaska location open every day for wine tastings so you can try the unique jalapeño wine along with all their others. The tasting room has over 25 wines to try, and samples are just $1 each. For just $30 you can taste all the wines and take home a souvenir glass. Just make sure you set aside two hours if you want to do this.

Sand Castle Winery

Sand Castle Winery in Erwinna, Pennsylvania, is just a 40-minute drive from Hatfield. They offer a variety of different experiences including a tasting, tour, and gourmet picnic platter. You’ll get a tour of the cellar along with wine tasting paired with a platter of cheeses and specialty charcuterie.

Enjoy an afternoon at one of these local wineries and find your new favorite wine.

Image via Flickr by Shinya Suzuki

 

Toyota has several crossover SUVs in their lineup, and with many different sizes and options available, there is one to fit every driver and their lifestyle. Here are some of the reasons to love a Toyota crossover.

The RAV4

The RAV4 is a compact SUV with room for up to five passengers, excellent fuel economy, and advanced safety features. The trims range from a basic vehicle to a plush crossover with all the latest technology. The 2018 model year comes with the option for the new Adventure trim, which has extra ground clearance and more off-road utility.

The Highlander

The Toyota Highlander is the crossover for those who need more space. This eight-passenger vehicle is great for families who need comfortable seats, plenty of USB ports in the cabin, and a powerful V-8 engine. The Highlander comes standard with the Safety Sense-P suite of safety features including forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and automatic high beams.

The Sequoia

The three rows of seats and 7,400-pound tow rating makes the Sequoia a great vehicle for large families on the go. The 5.7-liter V-8 engine gets the large crossover up and going quickly and smoothly, and the four-wheel drive is capable of getting you places many other large SUVs can’t go. The Sequoia also comes with the Safety Sense-P suite of safety technology for a vehicle you can trust to keep you safe.

With so many vehicles to choose from, there are a lot of reasons to love a Toyota crossover.

Image via Flickr by Greg Goebel