Your Toyota dealer near Philadelphia wants to make sure you know how to keep yourself and your pets safe in the car. Follow these tips to improve safety and lower the likeliness of injury.
Tip #1: Never Let the Dog Sit in Your Lap
This is probably the most important tip you’ll ever hear about dogs and driving safety. Having a dog in your lap is a big distraction. They want to look out the window, which blocks your access to controls, and they want to lick you in the face, which means you can’t see anything but dog tongue.
Perhaps even more scary is what happens during an accident. An airbag explodes with so much force that it could literally kill small dogs.
Tip #2: Get a Crate for Large Dogs
If you have a large dog, get a vehicle that can hold a suitable crate. SUVs work well because they often have large cargo areas in the back.
Secure the crate so that it doesn’t move around. Bungee cords work well.
Make the crate comfortable with blankets and toys. That way, your dog won’t mind riding back there without you.
Tip #3: Get a Safety Belt for Your Dog
It probably sounds a little silly, but there are safety belts made specifically for dogs. They’re actually harnesses that attach to the car’s safety belt. When connected, they prevent the dog from moving around much. It’s a great way to keep a dog under control even when she wants to hop around the car.
How to Find a Great Driving Teacher
Your Toyota dealer in the Trenton area wants to make sure you choose a great driving teacher so you can make smart choices on the road. Try these tips. They could help you avoid 
sketchy instructors and find the best teachers in your area.
Tip #1: Don’t Worry About Coupons
It’s a bad sign when a driving instructor always has coupons in the paper. Really good instructors don’t need coupons. They have waiting lists of people who can’t wait to experience their tutelage.
Don’t let a cheaper price sway you. You need good instruction, not a coupon.
Tip #2: Ask Your Friends and Relatives for Recommendations
People love to talk about their experiences. If your cousin had the best experience with a driving instructor, he’s probably happy to tell you all about it. If your old college friend’s son had a miserable time, then he will definitely fill you in on the details.
Pay attention and keep notes. If one instructors gets a lot of positive remarks, that’s the person for you.
Tip #3: Find a Professional Instructor
Some driving instructors operate out of tiny offices. That’s not a big deal. A lot of small businesses do this to save money. The problem comes when they can’t offer you good customer services. If the receptionist chomps on gum while “trying” to answer your questions, it’s best to find someone else.
Look for someone who treats clients respectfully and has their records in order. Otherwise, you’re dealing with people who can’t really help you.
Toyota Dealer Reviews the 2012 Matrix Hatchback
Your Toyota dealer near Philadelphia recommends test driving the 2012 Matrix hatchback if you want to experience a fun car with plenty of pep and a lot of cabin space. The hatchback 
design isn’t right for everyone, but the Matrix has proven itself useful for a wide range of buyers.
Quick Facts About the 2012 Toyota Matrix Hatchback
- Comes in L and S trim levels
- Lets you choose between two four-cylinder engines
- Stability and traction control are standard
- Bluetooth is an option on both models
- Has a flat load floor that makes it easier to move cargo
Engines for the 2012 Toyota Matrix Hatchback
The Matrix L, which is considered its base model, comes with a 1.8-liter four-cylinder that can give you 132 hp. If you want a larger engine, opt for the S model. It comes with a 2.4-liter four-cylinder. The 2.4-liter ups the performance to 158 hp and 162 lb-ft.
This might not sound like a lot of power, especially to people who are used to driving larger vehicles. The Matrix, however, is a lightweight car. Either engine gives you plenty of get-up-and-go. You might even describe it as a peppy car.
Safety Features for the 2012 Toyota Matrix
Everyone worries about safety on the road. The Matrix will not disappoint you. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety gives the hatchback its higher ratings in two types of crash tests.
It comes standard with antilock disc brakes, stability control, traction control, and active head restraints. If you get in an accident, you’re well protected.
Your Pennsylvania Toyota dealership takes a look at the 2012 Highlander hybrid SUV to help you decide whether it might suit your needs. If you want the space and convenience of an 
SUV, but you don’t want to stop at the gas station once a day to fill up, then this could be the right vehicle for you.
Quick Facts About the 2012 Highlander Hybrid
- It comes in two trim levels
- Both trims have the same engine: a 3.5-liter V6 hybrid
- All-wheel drive is standard
- Satellite radio, iPod, and Bluetooth are all standard
- Gets 28 mpg in the city and on the highway
- Has a lot of safety features
What Power the 2012 Toyota Highlander Hybrid?
Hybrid vehicles use a combination of electric and gas-powered engines. The 2012 Highlander’s gas engine is a 3.5-liter V6. It also has three electric motors that contribute to the SUV’s performance. When you put the engines together, they churn out 280 hp.
What does that mean for you? For starters, it means that the Highlander can catapult you from zero to 60 mph in less than 7.5 seconds. Who said hybrids didn’t have great performance?
How Safe is the 2012 Highlander?
Government crash tests give the 2012 Toyota Highlander an overall four out of five stars. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety gives the hybrid SUV its highest ratings in side-impact and frontal-offset tests.
In other words, the vehicle is quite safe.
If you want an SUV that is a little kinder to the environment but doesn’t skimp on performance, give the 2012 Highlander a test drive.
Hatfield Toyota Reviews the 2012 4Runner
Hatfield Toyota recommends the 2012 4Runner for anyone interested in off-road adventures. If you like to leave the pavement behind, this could be the perfect SUV for you.
Quick Facts About the 2012 4Runner
- Comes in three trim levels
- All models have a 4.0-liter V6
- Standard features include iPod input, satellite radio, and Bluetooth connectivity
- Third-row seat is an option
What Makes the 2012 4Runner Such a Good Off-roader?
The 2012 4Runner comes with a lot of features that help it excel in off-road environments. All models come with a traction control system that puts most traction control to shame. They also have hill-descent control, hill-hold, and a spare tire that is actually the size of a regular tire (rather than one of those annoying donuts that you can barely use on a paved surface).
Depending on which version you get, four-wheel drive also helps you conquer trails and shallow streams.
What’s the Engine Like?
All 2012 4Runners come with a 4.0-liter V6. That gives you 270 horsepower and 278 lb-ft of torque that will come in handy no matter where you go. It also lets you tow up to 5,000 pounds.
The acceleration depends on which version you get. A rear-drive 4Runner can hit 60 mph in just over seven seconds. The 4X4 Trail model is a little slower: it clocks in at about 8.2 seconds.
While you might like that this SUV can move so quickly, chances are that you’re more interested in how it performs on the trail. In that environment, you won’t find a vehicle that gives you more satisfaction.
Between kids, pets, the environment and – let’s face it – ourselves, our cars can get dirty quickly. Keeping your car clean can protect the exterior, reduce maintenance costs and increase resale value. Here are some tips from your Pennsylvania Toyota dealership to keep your car clean.
Everyday Tips to Minimize Clutter
Keep your car clutter-free by making make a rule that whatever you bring in, you take out. This will ensure your car is free of fast-food wrappers, sporting equipment or anything else that falls into the “I’ll get it later” category. Use toddler-friendly products to minimize snack and drink spills. Also, tuck away a trash bag in your car for garbage, wet clothes or muddy sports equipment.
A Good Wash on the Outside
Keep your car’s exterior car clean to minimize damage caused by salt, dirt and other elements. If washing it yourself, do it in a shaded area. Rinse your car first to remove loose dirt. Use a mild liquid soap and a clean wash mitt, then clean section by section, starting from the top. Also, make sure to rinse off your mitt before putting it back in the water. Use a separate mitt for tires. When finished, give the car another rinse and dry it.
A Good Cleaning on the Inside
Clean your car’s interior to help keep it looking new. Start by shaking out the floor mats and vacuuming them. Then vacuum the seats and car floor. Move the front seat back to so you can clean underneath. Clean the dash and doors with an electrostatic dust cloth and then wipe them with an all-purpose cleaner and an old towel. Clean windows inside and out.
Hatfield Toyota Offer Advice on Test Drives
You’ve found a car you like and now it’s time to get behind the wheel and take it for a spin. But what should you be looking for? Hatfield Toyota can help you understand how to get the most out of your test drive.
Do Your Homework
Before going to the car dealership do some preliminary research to determine what type of car you’re looking for. Narrow down your choices by determining your needs and what features you’ll require in your new car. And, of course, consider the price.
Is the Car a Good Fit?
Before taking the test drive, sit in the car. Think about how the seat feels. Are the controls within reach for you? Also, check the rearview mirror and side mirrors to make sure you have clear visibility.
Think About How the Car Handles
When you take the car out be sure to drive the exact model you’re looking for. Different engines and options can alter the way a car drives so you’ll want to make sure to drive the model you want to ensure it’s the right one for you. Be aware of how the car feels and how it sounds. See how it handles turns and how the accelerator and brakes react. How does it drive on a bumpy road? And don’t forget about the sound system. Bring your iPod or MP3 player along to test out the sound.
Take Your Time
When you complete your test drive take some time to let it soak in. If you’re considering other cars, test them out as well so you can make a solid comparison. Buying a car is a big decision and you want to make the right one.
Toyota Dealer Offers Tips for New Drivers
As parents, we always want to keep our kids safe and when it comes to driving, the stakes are even higher. Establishing safe habits for new drivers is essential and literally could be a life 
saver. Here are some tips from your Toyota dealer in the Trenton area to help keep your new driver safe.
Set a Good Example
Despite whether they want to admit it, our kids look up to us and follow the examples we set. If they see you texting while driving, searching through iPod playlists and eating meals behind the wheel, they’ll think it’s OK. Be aware of your driving habits and the message you’re sending out.
Give Your Teen a Lot of Practice
When driving with your new driver, be sure to practice in a variety of settings. They’ll need to learn how to drive day and night and in inclement weather. It’s also important to practice both local and highway driving so your new driver will be more comfortable in those situations.
Ensure Your Teen Gets Enough Sleep
Well-rested drivers are more alert and have better response times. Teens are busy with school, sports and friends and often don’t get as much sleep as they should. Stay in tune with your teen to help prevent a dangerous situation for not only him or her, but for other drivers on the road.
Establish a Zero-Tolerance Policy
It’s important for all drivers to understand that drinking or doing drugs and getting behind the wheel of a car is a dangerous combination. Although your teen surely knows this already it’s a good idea to reinforce it. And, again, practice what you preach.
2013 Venza Available at Toyota Dealer
The Venza is a stylish and versatile 5-door crossover with a focus on comfort. It comes in three models to fit your needs: the LE, XLE and the Limited. Get to know the 2013 Venza at 
your Toyota dealer near Philadelphia.
Power and Performance in the 2013 Venza
The LE and XLE models come with a 181 hp, 2.7-liter 4-cylinder engine. The Limited comes standard with a 268 hp, 3.5-liter V6 engine. All models come with a 6-speed automatic transmission and the 2013 Venza has a rating up to an EPA-estimated 21/27 mpg city/highway. Front-wheel drive is standard in the Venza but all models have an all-wheel drive option available.
A Versatile and Comfortable Interior
The 2013 Toyota Venza seats five passengers comfortably. It also touts versatility, with rear seats that can fold flat with the simple touch of a lever. When the rear seats are folded down, the Venza has more than 70 cubic feet of cargo space. The 60/40 rear seats can recline to bring added comfort to back-seat passengers. The 2013 Venza also has dual-zone climate control with rear air vents, cruise control and a holder for you iPod/MP3 player.
Safety Features
Safety takes a front seat in the 2013 Toyota Venza. The crossover has front and rear crumple zones to help ease the impact of a collision and advanced seatbelts for the driver’s and front passenger’s seats that limit force and have adjustable anchors for a more comfortable and secure fit. Other features include traction control, anti-lock brakes and Smart Stop Technology.
Toyota gave the Avalon a bit of a makeover for 2013, giving it some sleeker and updated features inside and out that are earning many praises. The largest of Toyota’s sedans comes in 
seven models, including three hybrid model choices. Your Pennsylvania Toyota dealership has the updated 2013 Avalon waiting for you.
Power and Performance in the Avalon
The 2013 Toyota Avalon is more aerodynamic than its predecessor. It has 268 hp from a 3.5-Liter V6 engine. The hybrid has a 2.5-Liter 4-Cylinder engine supplemented by an electric motor. Don’t let the 4-cylinder engine fool you because this hybrid can get to 60 mph in 8.2 seconds. For fuel economy, the 2013 Toyota Avalon has an EPA-estimated 21/31 mpg city/highway, while the hybrid version has an EPA-estimated 40/39 mpg city/highway.
The Avalon’s Luxury Interior
The interior of the 2013 Toyota Avalon is both visually appealing and comfortable. It has plush leather seats and wood-grain-style interior trim. You’ll get dual-zone or three-zone climate control depending on the model you choose. There’s also an eBin with outlets for your electronic devices. The Avalon also offers plenty of room throughout, providing an incredibly comfortable ride for you and your passengers.
Safety Features in the 2013 Toyota Avalon
Avalon comes standard with 10 airbags – the most in its class. There are three-point seatbelts in all seating positions, energy-absorbing crumple zones, side-impact door beams and a LATCH system to help keep smaller passengers safe. A backup camera system is standard in all but the base Avalon XLE model.
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