Blog

If you are looking to purchase or lease a hybrid, the new 2015 Prius is the top pick from Toyota of Dothan. Toyota has led the way in hybrid technology for years, with the Prius being at the forefront. Owning a Prius is a great way to help reduce the carbon footprint while saving money. Owners not only save money at the pump but additionally, with the car’s unheard of longevity track record, many owners are able to drive their Prius’s for ten year or more. Here is peek at the top features and options for the new 2015 Prius. Amazing gas mileage coming in at 51mpg city and 50mpg highway Roomy interior with seating for up to five Ample cargo space with 60/40 folding rear seats for additional cargo room Seat back pocket storage Cup holders Power adjusted driver seat with lumbar support Illuminated vanity driver and front passenger mirrors Multi informational display that shows current fuel economy and distance until empty Hands free connectivity with voice command AM/FM/CD radio system with MP3 capabilities ABS braking system Multi airbag system Vehicle traction and stability control Back up camera Tire pressure monitor Child safety locks Adjustable head rests Power one touch windows Smart key entry with push button start USB Ports Map lights Moon roof To check out the new 2015 Toyota Prius and these great options, make an appointment or stop by your Ft. Rucker Toyota dealer today. Great lease and financing rates are currently available.

Driving safely in inclement weather requires extra precautions, additional time and extreme patience. Toyota of Dothan wants you know how to safely drive in bad weather. Here are some top tips to follow. Slow Down: When the weather is bad you will need more time to reach your destination. Take it slow especially on over passes, bridges and exit ramps as they tend to get slick quicker. Additionally, give cars ahead of you extra room so you have more than enough space to stop if needed. Avoid Distractions: While you should always pay attention to the road and avoid distractions, it becomes even more critical to do so during inclement weather. Keep off your cell phone, program your GPS before hitting the road, don’t eat or drink and don’t turn around to talk to people in the back. Stay Alert To Changing Road Conditions: Keep focused on the road and stay alert to changing conditions. Watch for icy spots, snow covered areas, flooded roadways and flying debris during windy weather. Additionally, stay tuned to your local radio station for updates. Use Your Lights: When the weather is bad, use your lights. This helps to increase your visibility and to give other drivers on the road a better chance of seeing you. Low beams or fog lights are your best options when driving in rain, snow, sleet or fog. Prepare Your Vehicle Before Your Leave Home: If the weather is really bad it is best not to travel at all, but if you must be prepared. Update your emergency road kit, make sure you wiper blades and defrost are working and take along any additional emergency supplies you might need like non perishable food and water.

Road side assistance plans offer great benefits to drivers. Whether you drive locally, travel across the country or anywhere in-between, a road side assistance plan is recommended by Toyota of Dothan. Here is a closer look at what is typically offered in a road side assistance plan. What Is Covered In A Basic Road Side Assistance Plan Your basic road side assistance plan typically offers 24/7 coverage for your basic road side assistance needs. This usually includes changing of a flat tire, delivery of gas, jump start to your car’s battery and lock out assistance. Additionally, local towing is usually included in a basic plan. Additional Coverage Found In Some Road Side Assistance Plans Road Side service plans can include a variety of additional coverage options. Benefits of enhanced plans usually include long distance towing. Trip interruption expenses while your vehicle is being serviced, like an overnight in a hotel and meals, are often included. Other benefits may include trip planning assistance and free road maps. Discounts on hotels, car rentals, theme parks and restaurants are also perks of some road side assistance plans. Choosing A Road Side Assistance Plan That Is Right For You Prices and benefits of road side assistance plans very. Before purchasing a road side assistance plan you should determine your needs and then compare plans and prices to decide which one is right for you. If you only travel near home then a basic plan may be a perfect fit. If you do a lot of traveling, a more comprehensive plan may be a better choice.

Sending your teen driver off in a car alone is very nerve-racking. You do a great job teaching your teen the rules of the road and important safety habits, but what you cannot control is other drivers and the unexpected.  Wouldn’t you want to know that the car you choose for your teen would protect your teen when you cannot?  The IIHS recommends pre-owned Toyotas from Toyota of Dothan for your teen. Benefits of Buying Toyotas One phrase is transforming safety in the auto industry: Star Safety System™. In 2010, Toyota began making the system standard in ALL models.  The system is comprised of essential safety technologies: ABS, stability control, traction control, brakeforce distribution and brake assist. Best Midsize Cars: 2012 and Newer Toyota Camry and Toyota Prius The collection of 2014 Toyota Camry sedans on the lot is plentiful and affordable. Pricing for the sedans ranges from $19K to $22K. The CARFAX 1-owner sedans are Toyota Certified, backed by a warranty, and the recipients of the 2014 IIHS Top Safety Pick Award.   The 2012 Toyota Prius is priced below $18K, and the 2013 Toyota Prius Three features a price below $22K.  The 1.8-liter engines under the hood are coupled with hybrid electric motors to maximize efficiency.  According to the EPA, the fuel economy rating for the hybrids is 51/48 mpg, which has the potential to save consumers $4750 in fuel costs over five years.  Both the 2012 and 2013 Toyota Prius hybrids are IIHS Top Safety Picks.

Have you heard the term ‘paddle shifter’ recently?  If you have been shopping for a car online, chances are you have.  A few Toyota vehicles are equipped with the feature, but what is it and how does it work.  Toyota of Dothan explains paddle shifters. What are Paddle Shifters? Paddle shifters are ideal for drivers who like to have a little more control over their speeds and RPMs.  Manual transmission are still very popular options for drivers, and many high performance vehicles features standard transmissions.  Paddle shifters capture the essence of the manual transmission, but without all of the work.  Paddle shifters are generally located on the back of the steering wheel, on either the left or right side.  The shifters are hand-operated and permit the driver to choose between ‘drive’ mode and ‘manual’ mode.  Drive does not require shifting.  Manual mode gives the driver the ability to shift either up or down.  The shifters are usually a minus paddle on one side for downshifting, and a plus paddle on the opposite side for upshifting. How do I Use Paddle Shifters? Not all designs are the same, but many work similarly.  With the car in ‘drive,’ you just drive as you would with an automatic.  If you downshift or upshift when the car is in drive mode, the transmission will adjust accordingly, but only temporarily.  If you want to take complete control of shifting, you have to switch the manual operation mode, which allows you to control the RPM at which the gears are changed.

More and more manufacturers are offering SUVs and crossovers with three rows; however, some back seats are a little more compact that others.  If you are shopping for a vehicle with 3 rd -row seating, consider the passengers you will transport in the back. You may not always be transporting kids; adults need a comfortable place to sit, too.  You can pack everyone into a Toyota with 3 rd -row seating. 2001 Toyota Sequoia SR5 If you are on a budget, the’01 Toyota Sequoia SR5 is in excellent choice.  The price for the large 8-passenger SUV is less than $10,000, and it is loaded with many of your favorite features. The 4.7-liter V8 under the hood is coupled with a rear-wheel drive drivetrain to produce 240 hp and 12/16 mpg.  Features in the SUV include engine immobilizer, airbags, power outlet, AM/FM radio, all-season tires, automatic headlights, and ABS. 2015 Toyota Highlander FWD The 2015 Toyota Highlander is the number one Affordable Midsize SUV, according to US News.  The SUV also earned a 5-star safety rating from NHTSA, and a 2015 Best Buy Award from KBB.  Toyota designed the Highlander to address your driving needs and budget concerns.  The Highlander SUV with a 2.7-liter inline-4 produces 185 hp and averages 20/25 mpg.  If you upgrade to the FWD 3.5-liter V6, you will benefit from 270 hp and a 19/25-mpg fuel economy rating. 2015 Toyota Sienna 8-passenger FWD The 2015 Toyota Sienna is a 2014 IIHS Top Safety Pick+, a title awarded to only two minivans in 2014.  The family minivan features a 3.5-liter V6 with a 6-speed automatic and a front-wheel-drive drivetrain.  The hp rating is 266 at 6200 RPM, and the fuel economy rating is 18/25 mpg. The available trim levels are the LE and the XLE.  The XLE takes comfort one-step further with leather seating.

The gas prices have been relatively painless, but as American drivers, we know better than to get too comfortable with the low prices.  We are in the midst of a crazy travel season, and there is no better way to manage your fuel expenses than with a credit card. Choose a credit card that can be used anywhere and offers money back when you are at the pump. Toyota of Dothan discusses ways you can use a credit card to save cash on gas. What are Gas Rewards Cards? Gas rewards cards are credit cards that offer you more flexibility and better rates.  When you fill up at the gas pump, you will notice that many stations have credit card applications right on the top of the pump, but those may not be the best way to go.  Many credit cards offer cash-back rewards for fuel. Gas rewards cards are regular credit cards that offer a variety of incentives: sign-up bonuses, cash-back options, gas rebates, and rotating bonuses. What are the Benefits of a Gas Rewards Card? One of the biggest benefits of owning a gas rewards card is versatility.  The cards are not limited to specific gas station; they can be used anywhere VISA, MasterCard, AmEx or Discover are accepted, depending on the type of card you choose.  Additional benefits include: Cash back bonuses Can be accepted at any gas station throughout the US Receive rewards on more than fuel Many cards do not have an annual fee Balance transfer options Lower APR than traditional gas-company-exclusive credit cards Many cards so not have required gas spending amounts for bonuses and rewards User is not responsible for unauthorized purchases Easier to manage fuel costs on a weekly, monthly, and annual basis Some cards offer more rewards points when users shop with specific retailers

The IIHS recently released a press release about the minivans on the market and their safety ratings.  The IIHS tests revealed that many popular models, that carry thousands of families on the roads, did not fare well in safety tests, but the Sienna was not one of them.  The 2015 Toyota Sienna at Toyota of Dothan excels where the competition falls short in IIHS safety tests. IIHS Crash Test Results According to the IIHS, three out of the five minivans evaluated received poor results in a crucial safety test—small overlap front. The small overlap front test is designed to mimic a common impact when the front corner of a car collides with another vehicle, a utility pole or a tree.  The vehicle travels at 40 mph before the collision.  A majority of the impact it directly in front of the steering wheel.  After completing the test, the IIHS looked at dummy injuries and the damage done to the vehicle.  The IIHS reports that one minivan’s structure collapsed completely around the driver, and another minivan’s damage was so extensive that the Institute referred to it as “off the scale.”  The most common injuries included damage to the hip and thigh, and the lower leg and foot. 2015 Toyota Sienna Results According to the IIHS, the Sienna earned a 2014 Top Safety Pick + Award, an award given to only two minivans.  According to the IIHS, the Sienna minivan earned good ratings in four tests, an acceptable rating in the crucial small overlap front evaluation, and an advanced rating for its front crash prevention system.

If you're a parent, the day is going to come, whether you like it or not. That child is going to turn 16 and start asking for a car. There are some things your Toyota of Dothan wants parents to consider when buying a teenagers first car. Decide Who is Buying the Car Are you, the parent, buying the car? Will the teen buy the car? Is it a shared effort? Most financial experts agree that the teenager should have at least some investment into the vehicle. Ownership, at a price, breeds responsibility. Make that decision before you start the conversation with your son or daughter, however. Your portion, if any, is YOUR decision. Safe, Not Sporty Your new driver is probably going to want something sporty-- and fast. You probably prefer to put them in your parent's car. The best option is probably somewhere in the middle. A mid-size sedan will typically get decent gas mileage and will be solid and safe. Engine Size Think four cylinders here. There is enough power to do everything that needs to be done- get from point A to point B safely- and not enough power to be a temptation. No matter how responsible your child is, a big powerful engine is a big no-no! Consequences Right From the Start Set the rules. Let them know what type of behavior is NOT allowed. For example, don't put on makeup while you're driving. Don't eat while you’re behind the wheel. Keep the music at a decent volumes- and save the earbuds for later. Above all, no drinking and driving. Let them know you will always come and pick them up if they are impaired. Most importantly, determine the consequences for breaking the rules before the rules are broken-- and stick to it!   This is just the beginning of the considerations before your teen buys their first car. It's a big step- help them make it a wise one.

Look no further! Take it from your Toyota of Dothan, you want to see the Venza- a midwifed SUV that keeps it stylish, while offering the versatility of an SUV. You’ll look twice at the new features and be plenty happy about how she looks headed down the road. Style, perks, cargo space- the 2015 Toyota Venza covers all the bases. Safety First! Toyota of Dothan Knows What You Need! Toyota is known for their Star Safety System- and it comes on every new Toyota you buy! From the traction control to the brake assist, Smart Stop technology and more, you’re safety is important to us.   Six different safety systems come standard on your new Venza- which will give you peace of mind as you’re hauling your most precious cargo to school. More safety features include a rearview camera, blind spot mirror and first- and second-row curtain airbags to make sure every move you make is a safe one. But We LOVE the Options! You’ll love the options like heated mirrors, leather seats with memory and heat, as well as a leather steering wheel with audio controls, keyless entry and a navigation system as well. Just because you’re driving an SUV doesn’t mean you need to forfeit luxury. The exterior looks sharp as well, with the 19” Alloy wheels and automatic headlights that dim on their own when a car approaches 1000 feet, as well as daytime running lights.

One of the top-recommended mini vans from Edmunds is the 2015 Toyota Sienna. Toyota of Dothan  has this van in the five-door, eight passenger LE FWD model ready for you to drive home today. This year’s model has an updated, family friendly interior that you’re whole family will love.   One of the most frustrating parts of driving a van full of kids is trying to be heard over all the noise. Well, perhaps the new Sienna was designed by a soccer mom, because the Easy Speak feature uses a built-in microphone to send your voice through the speakers in the back of the van. No more hollering to be heard- just speak in your normal voice and even the teenagers will hear you. The Sienna Changes are Inside! The exterior of the new Sienna looks just like last year’s model, but open the door and take a look inside to see the upgrades.  The interior has been upgraded with higher quality materials, which makes a world of difference to the feel of the cabin.  One of the most appreciated changes is the movement of the control knobs for the climate control and the entertainment system. They are now conveniently located in a cluster some three inches closer to the driver. The dash is now padded and the wood trim looks like, well, like wood, not cheap plastic. The interior has some other changes as well. The Entune entertainment system is much more user friendly, including the ability to swipe the screen, much like your phone

We know as your family grows, you need a vehicle that grows with you. You want something that fits your family, but you're not ready to move into the mini van world. Check out the Toyota Highlander, the AWD vehicle that can take you where you want to go! It looks great headed down the highway and can go off-road at the flip of a switch. The Toyota Highlander is at Toyota of Dothan, waiting for a test drive. This is NO Mini Van The 2015 Highlander seats up to eight, but this is no mini van! With a sleek car-like look, you're styling, even when you haul the kids to soccer practice. Choose between a 4-cylinder, V6 or a hybrid engine for the power and fuel economy you need. With three seats, and the ability to tow up to 5000 pounds, you can haul whoever and whatever you need to. The V6 engine is the preferred choice, giving basically the same fuel economy as the 4 cylinder, with a lot more power, as well as the option for all wheel drive. Here's Your Highlander Perks If you're looking for perks, look no further. The Highlander has options including 2 nd row heated captains seats, if you don't need the 3 rd row option. You'll love the lane departure warning system, panoramic moon roof and Driver's Easy Speak, which amplifies the driver's speaking voice to be heard better throughout the vehicle.   The 2015 Toyota Highlander is a step above the mini van! Who says you have to sacrifice style for space?