2013 Toyota Avalon is the First in World to Offer Wireless Phone Charging

Wireless phone charging technology in the
2013 Toyota Avalon

 Toyota is once again leading the automotive pack when it comes to integrating technology and innovation as the 2013 Toyota Avalon will become the first vehicle in the world to offer wireless phone charging. That’s right, your phone will begin charging as soon as you put it down in your new Avalon. No fumbling for cords or worrying about if you have enough battery to last you until you get home; the Avalon will charge it for you, cord-free.

So how does it work? This “first in the world” technology is deceptively easy and simple. The lid of your Avalon’s electronics bin (or ebin) is fitted with a fancy schmancy unit that creates an electromagnetic field that triggers your phone’s charging system when you put your phone on the conveniently located ebin lid (right there in the middle console where everyone puts their phone anyway). All you have to do  is set it there and your phone starts charging. In fact, the ebin lid still moves up and down and is completely functional.

Check out the a video explaining more about the Qi wireless charging technology in the 2013 Toyota Avalon HERE.

“Pioneering the ability to charge with no wires or connectors by simply putting devices in the car console is an intuitive innovation which reflects Toyota’s continuing commitment to improve the consumer experience,” said Randy Stephens, chief engineer of Toyota Avalon. “We see wireless charging as an important feature that helps enhance the high-technology theme and consumer interface offered by Avalon Limited which is already equipped with three TFT color screens and Intellitouch controls.”

The Qi wireless technology charging won’t work for every phone. Phones must be Qi technology enabled, which may require that you buy an accessory (ie a sleeve or new back cover for the phone). No doubt as this wireless charging technology becomes more popular and widespread (but don’t forget the Toyota Avalon was the first!), more phone manufacturers will build Qi technology directly into the phones. 

This wireless phone charging technology is seriously cool and convenient for drivers. It’s amazing that Toyota Avalon engineers only started developing it in January or February of 2012! The technology is available in gas and hybrid 2013 Toyota Avalons.

2013 Toyota Avalon

“Toyota wants to provide drivers with the ultimate driving experience,” said Nathan Ayers of Burien Toyota. “The 2013 Toyota Avalon will be one of the best in its class and this wireless phone charging technology is just one reason and an example of what an incredible vehicle it is. I would encourage anyone to come down and test drive the 2013 Avalon.”

For your chance to see what all the buzz is about concerning the 2013 Toyota Avalon, including the Qi wireless charging technology, stop by Burien Toyota today! 

Toyota Furia Teaser: Flaming Hot

Teasers are fun. The official teaser Toyota put out about the Furia, though, will leave you wanting more. Now. What could be the next generation Corolla, if the teaser at the link below is any indication, the Furia will stand apart and stand out in this increasingly competitive market.

Here’s how you know the Toyota Furia will be a winner:

• Just the teaser of the Furia looks awesome (especially with the flames and rock music, but even without)
• If the Furia really is based on the Corolla, you know it will have fantastic gas mileage
• With a name like Furia and performance expectations high for sporty vehicles, you KNOW the Furia will hug corners and drive like a dream. And kick butt while doing it.

While we disagree with the below article’s assertion that Toyota has “been trying so hard to be cool lately” (because Toyota doesn’t need to try to be cool, am I right?), we definitely think the Toyota Furia will take “cool” to the next level. Check out the official trailer HERE and get excited about the future of Toyota.

If you can’t wait for the Furia, check out the top-selling vehicle the Furia is based on, the Toyota Corolla, at Burien Toyota HERE.

Before You Buy a Car for a Holiday Gift...

Before You Buy a Car for a Holiday Gift…

We all see the beautiful commercials of new cars topped with giant bows parked in the snowy driveways. Buying someone (or yourself) seems like the perfect gift, but before you take the plunge, there are probably a few things you want to consider.

•  If you are buying this car for your significant other, be sure it’s a car that they want…and not one that you want. Just like when you were younger and you wanted to buy your sibling a toy for your birthday that you really wanted so you could play with it. I suspect that buying someone a car just so you can drive it will go over about as well. Or not.
• Even if you are buying a car for yourself, be sure it fits your family situation. I recently talked to a sales person at a local dealership who said the used sports car we had just walked by only had 20,000 miles on it because his wife made him bring it back because it didn’t have seats in the back for their kids. If you have children (or pets), it may be important to have enough room for them.
• There are many great deals out there right now, but make sure you are realistic with what you can afford. While it might sound dreamy to give your significant other a car for zero down, don’t forget there will be hundreds of dollar payments from months/years after that. I’m not trying to suck out your holiday cheer, I’m just trying to preserve your relationship.
• While a surprise might sound romantic, unless you are the “Gift Whisperer” and/or have really done your homework, it’s probably best to include the person you are buying the car for…lest you get the wrong color or trim or entirely wrong car. L
• We have a saying in our house: go big or go home. How can you incorporate this into your auto-gift buying experience without buying more than you can really afford? Buy one trim above what they would probably expect. You can never go wrong with heated seats or that navigation system.

If you have any questions that you don’t want to ask the person you are buying the car for (because you’re afraid of ruining the surprise, etc.), feel free to talk your friendly and knowledgeable sales person at Burien Toyota!

Toyota is on Top of the World

Toyota looks like it will take over GM’s current title has world’s biggest automaker in 2012, after Toyota suffered major setbacks in 2011 due to the earthquake and tsunami in Japan that interrupted manufacturing and shipping. It looks like GM and Volkswagen are battling for second place.

According to this article, “The battle among the world's biggest carmakers comes as the industry is headed for a record year. Global 2012 sales will top 80 million cars and trucks for the first time…Toyota leads through the first three quarters, with 7.4 million units, compared with 6.95 million at GM, and 6.9 million at Volkswagen, including its Porsche line.”

“The fact that Toyota took over GM as the top automaker in the world doesn’t surprise us,” said Nathan Ayers of Burien Toyota. “The natural disasters that hit Japan in 2011 had real, global consequences. But Toyota has overcome and come out even better.”

Ayers attributes part of the rebound to the trust people have in the Toyota brand.

“Toyota is one of the most recognizable and trusted auto brands in the world,” Ayers said. “When you have vehicles like the Camry, Corolla and Tundra that people rush to buy new and used, you know you can’t keep Toyota down. And gas mileage is growing in importance to people, especially in the United States and here in the Seattle area where a gallon of gas is so expensive. The Toyota Prius is the industry leader in hybrid technology and best-selling hybrid in the world, so people trust it. People trust Toyota, so they come back and the refer their friends.

Burien Toyota is the Hybrid Headquarters of the Puget Sound area and your local Toyota experts. Whether you are looking for a new or used vehicle, Burien Toyota is the best place to go. Check out our inventory online or, even better, stop by and talk to one of our trusted sales staff so we can help you find the perfect vehicle for you!

Toyota Venza has High Tech High Beam Technology

It might be a small thing, but it’s annoying nonetheless: we just clicked on our high beams when a car comes around the corner coming towards you, so you have turn off your high beams, wait for the other car to pass, and then turn your high beams back on. Like I said, it's a small deal, but if you’re like me, you seriously weigh the odds of an oncoming car before turning on your high beams so you don’t have to endure the situation I described above.

Well, Toyota and the Toyota Venza, specifically, use technology to make the little things (like turning your high beams on and off) much simpler…making your driving experience that much better.

The Toyota Venza comes with automatic high beam technology that means it can sense an oncoming car, will dim your headlights automatically, and, as soon as the car passes you, turn the high beams right back on. Even more impressive, is that the Toyota Venza will dim the high beams if you approach a car from behind and then it will turn the high beams back on when the car in front of you turns off the road.

While a couple other non-Toyota models come with this feature, you have to manually turn it on when you get the car. With the Toyota Venza, you don’t have to do anything: it just works! And, really, who wouldn’t want this technology? So Toyota just made it simpler…again.

Check out the Toyota Venza inventory at Burien Toyota. Or, even better, stop by Burien Toyota to take one for a test drive and test out the technology yourself!

See the complete article by MSN.com here, including a short video highlighting the Venza’s high beam technology.

2013 Scion iQ Electric Car, Toyota Prius Top EPA Fuel Economy Lists

2013 Scion iQ 

The latest EPA Fuel Economy Guide may surprise some consumers: the 2013 Scion iQ electric vehicle beat out bigger brands like Honda and Ford to top the list for best gas mileage!

According to this article, “The Scion iQ EV was the most fuel efficient car overall and in its minicompact class, with miles per gallon equivalent of 121 combined, 138 city and 105 highway.”

The Toyota Prius topped the EPA list of vehicles that use gasoline or diesel: “In that list, the Toyota Prius was the most efficient with 50 mpg combined, 51 city and 48 highway.”

The Toyota Prius V also landed on that list for best gas mileage.

Prisus V

“The fact that the Scion iQ landed at the top of the list doesn’t surprise us,” said Nathan Ayers of Burien Toyota. “The Scion iQ is a really great electric vehicle, perfect for people who want an EV with style and incredible gas mileage. Scion isn’t as well-known as some of the bigger brands, so I think this new EPA report will remind people to look at Scions when they want to focus on getting good gas mileage.”

The Toyota Prius strengthens is reputation as a leader in fuel economy and giving drivers the best gas mileage in the industry.

“People have come to automatically associate the Toyota Prius with fantastic gas mileage,” Ayers said. “Burien Toyota is your hybrid headquarters for the Puget Sound area. We can answer all your questions by hybrid technology and help you find the perfect one for you. But one thing is for sure, when you get a Prius or any Toyota hybrid, you will get amazing gas mileage and a great experience by buying from Burien Toyota.”

The 2013 Fuel Economy Guide is published by the EPA and Department of Energy.

Read the complete article here, including information about how Consumer Report’s road tests of a couple Detroit-made hybrids fell about 10 mpg short of what they were claiming.

Commit to Coach T and Burien Toyota

Automobile advertising has brought us some interesting characters over the years. Toyota recently introduced a new classic with Coach T and  their sports themed television spots. Consumers are much smarter nowadays and don’t like to be ‘sold to’ a lot…unless they feel like they are being offered a college scholarship in the form of a Toyota Avalon, Toyota Camry, Toyota Corolla, Toyota Tundra, or Toyota Prius.

Coach T works his magic convincing a suburban working mom that she can run across the field (her yard) to cheers from her neighbors (“Mom, you hate the neighbors”) and that, while Coach T has “never been to actual Paris,” her driveway looks like a catwalk with the Toyota Avalon parked there (“Meow”). Turn it over to the assistant coach to list features like heated seats and the optional JBL sound system, and it feels like you can see yourself with Coach T as your captain and the Toyota Avalon taking you to a championship. 

See Burien Toyota's Avalon inventory here.

Oh, and the commercial where Coach T rides shotgun in a Toyota Tundra while Mike Ditka and Joe Gibbs ride in the backseat, is priceless. Who can sell the Tundra’s backup camera (in the rearview mirror) and towing capacity better than them? Especially while they’re encouraging the driver to rev the engine and giving him Ditka’s last piece of gum.

See Burien Toyota's Tundra inventory here.

Personally, I think Coach T’s pep talk to a young family looking to buy one of the several members of the Toyota Prius family was the best. “With great mileage comes great opportunity.” Truer words have never been spoken. And then there was the “M-P-G” chant that turned to baby tears of “joy.”

See Burien Toyota's Prius inventory here.

Coach T also has great advice for Eli Manning: “I would stick to QB my friend” as he tosses him the keys to the new Toyota Camry LE, which has 18 inch wheels, the EnTune System, navigation system and paddle shifters.

See Burien Toyota's Camry inventory here.

My favorite Toyota feature described in these commercials has to be “Open Table” described in the “Driveway” commercial where Coach T is trying to get a good driver to ‘commit’ to the Toyota Corolla (the parents of the recent graduate are overjoyed to hear he commits to the Toyota Corolla). The Open Table feature lets you make dinner reservations safely from your car!

See Burien Toyota's Corolla inventory here.

And if you need a reminder about how great the gas mileage is on the Toyota Corolla gets, Coach T informs a kid in Driver’s Ed (whose mom “says I need to keep my MPG up”) that its gets 34/43.

Check out all of these commercials and the star vehicles at www.Toyota.com/coachtoyota. For your chance to see them up close and personal (and possibly get an autograph), stop by Burien Toyota today and take the Toyota Avalon, Camry, Corolla, Hybrid, or Tundra for a test drive today!

Happy Holidays: Toyotathon is On at Burien Toyota

Tis the season for Happy Holidays and the terrific once a year Toyotathon deals! Nowhere are these deals better than at Burien Toyota.

But first, don’t forget to bring an unwrapped toy when you stop by to take advantage of one of these terrific deals because Burien Toyota is a drop-off location for Toys for Tots.

Now back to this money-saving message.

Interested in leasing a new 2012 Toyota Camry LE for just $209? (why wouldn’t you be) Here’s what else comes with this deal:

•  Get $1,000 TFS cash
• $209 per month for 24 months!
• The 2012 Toyota Camry LE gets 35 mpg
•  Only $1,599 is due at signing!

How does 0% APR on the 2012 Toyota Camry sound? (totally rhetorical…we know it’s great.)

•  Get 0% APR for 60 months
•  Includes the Toyota Care 2 year Maintenance Plan
• Still gets 35 mpg
• Excludes the Camry Hybrid

If you are interested in one of our remaining 2012 Toyota 4Runners, you can also get $1,000 TFS cash and our Toyota Care 2-Year Maintenance Plan.

How about some parts and service deals at Burien Toyota?

• Now, get a complimentary battery inspection and with any battery purchase, we'll install it at NO EXTRA CHARGE! PLUS you'll get $20 Toyota Bucks good toward your next service!
•  Most Value - Best Overall Value of any Full-Line Brand – IntelliChoice
•  Most Miles Per Gallon - Toyota Most Fuel-Efficient Full-Line Automotive Manufacturer – NHTSA
• Offer ends 12/31/12, so make your appointment today!

At Burien Toyota, we love the men and women of the military who served their country. So now through Jan. 7, 2013, active military and inactive reserve will get a $1,000 cash rebate that can be combined with Toyota cash back, APR financing or leases.

At Burien Toyota these are just some of our amazing deals on new and used vehicles, so come on down to see everything that we have to offer and take your favorite(s) for a test drive!

Toyota, Auto Industry 'Gaining Momentum'

Consumers are regaining confidence in the American economy and no one can tell better than the auto industry, which suffered greatly during the recession. But automotive companies, especially Toyota, are picking up steam as was announced by Toyota’s U.S. executive, Jim Lentz, at the L.A. Auto Show.

"The auto industry is gaining momentum," Lentz proclaimed Wednesday. "The forecast ahead looks even better."

Locally, Burien Toyota has noticed a pick-up in business, too.

“Absolutely people are buying cars, especially Toyotas,” said Nathan Ayers of Burien Toyota. “Things are still a little shaky for some people, so when people invest money in a new or used car, they want to know they are getting a good, quality car that will last a long time. That’s why Toyota is doing better then most other brands.”

According to this Detroit News article, “For example, Toyota's U.S. sales are up 30 percent this year through October and the automaker's market share has risen nearly two full percentage points following last year's production shortage as a result of a devastating earthquake and tsunami in Japan.

Ford Motor Co., General Motors Co. and Chrysler Group LLC sales have also jumped year-over-year, but to a lesser extent.”

And it’s not just Toyota’s executives that are optimistic: "I'm not sure I've ever seen the auto industry so upbeat," GM's Mark Reuss told CNBC's Phil LeBeau.

Ayers encourages anyone who is considering buying a car to do what is comfortable for them in their situation, but not to let any concerns about the auto industry scare them away from local dealerships like Burien Toyota.

“Toyota was never affected by the recession like some other companies were, so it only makes sense that Toyota would lead the pack in the recovery,” Ayers said.

If you are looking for a new or used car, come try Burien Toyota’s amazing, no-pressure customer service! Stop by today!

Kelley Blue Book: Toyota Has Best Resale Value

Toyota FJ Cruiser

The Toyota brand has long been known for its dependability and long-lived vehicles. Well, Kelley Blue Book recently awarded Toyota with the best non-luxury brand resale value award in its annual Kelley Blue Book Best Resale Value Awards! Additionally, the Toyota luxury brand, Lexus, won best resale value for the luxury brand!

This means that when you sell your Toyota, you will get more money than any other brand because the Toyota resale value is better than any other brand!

According to this New York Times article, “…the used-car pricing service, the average vehicle, no matter the brand, is expected to retain about 38.2 percent of its original value after five years, which means that a $50,000 new car today would be worth about $19,100 after five years.

The average Toyota, however, is expected to retain 44 percent of its original list price, while a Lexus is expected to retain 43.7 percent, Eric Ibara, director of residual consulting for Kelley Blue Book, said in a telephone interview.”

The awards are based on which cars are expected to retain the most value after 75,000 miles and/or a five year period…just about the time you may be considering selling your Toyota to make room for a newer model.

The vehicle that retained the most value after five years was the Toyota FJ Cruiser at 63 percent. In second place was the Toyota Tacoma, retaining 57 percent of its value.

“Combined, 12 Toyota and Lexus models received Best Resale Value Awards this year, and half of the Top 10 models were from either Toyota or Lexus.”

So what do you do now that much-respected Kelley Blue Book told the world about Toyota resale values? Check out the huge new and used car inventory of Burien Toyota. Or even better, head to Burien Toyota to test drive the Toyota that fits you knowing that it will have dynamite resale value down the road because of its high quality and reliability!

Self-Driving Cars to Overcome Dangers of Technology, Human Error

Much has been written about the self-driving cars that have recently been made legal in the state of California. What you may not know is that they have logged more than 250,000 driving miles…without a single incident.

That’s right; a perfect record.

Maybe like me, you were wary of the self-driving car at first. But, I was convinced of their inherent good and benefit to society when someone pointed out how they can give independence to people with disabilities and the elderly.

This article points out how the self-driving car can save those of us who willingly disable ourselves while we drive…with technology. We all know we do it: text, talk on the phone, check our emails on our phone, etc. If it’s not you, then it’s someone in a car around you, which could easily make you a statistic.

The self-driving car technology could save us from…our use of technology while we drive.

Imagine being able to tell your self-driving car to drive you home while you typed away at all those emails you didn’t get sent while in the office? Sounds dreamy, right?

“Oh, I’d totally get a self-driving car,” said Roger Herbaugh of the Seattle area. “I’d consider myself an early adopter and I work a lot out of my car, so it’d be nice to be able to do more worker safer as I traveled from client to client.”

The self-driving car can also save us from ourselves.

Imagine being able to tell your car to take you home after you’ve had one too many drinks or are so sleepy you could make a mistake? Self-driving cars could not only be independence-giving and convenient, they could also be life-saving.

“I’m not so sure about the technology right now,” said Douglas Harrington of Shoreline. “I did, however, just drive back from Eastern Washington after the Apple Cup and that’s a lot of boring road, so it would be nice to be able to put the car on a kind of autopilot. I was pretty tired after that Cougar victory, but I’m still not sure I’d feel comfortable sleeping while my car drove itself.”

This paragraph from the article sums up the issue nicely:

“Pioneers in the field estimate that driverless cars could save a substantial number of lives each year. These cars are immune to distractions caused by talking on cell phones, texting and checking emails, eating and drinking, grooming and shaving, reading and writing, watching TV or a video, adjusting the radio or CD player, checking the navigation system, watching the scenery, putting on make-up, fighting with passengers and disciplining children. They are also not impaired by alcohol, drugs, sleep deprivation and anger. They can react instantaneously and accurately. They always maintain the lane, use turn signals and never tailgate. They always respect red lights or stop signs. They keep detailed logs. They always remind you way before the time for refueling and maintenance service.”

What do you think? Are these arguments enough for you to jump behind the wheel of a self-driving car? What would it take to get you there?

Toyota Black Friday Event

The Big Event Returns for 2012

At Burien Toyota, customers can expect 0% Financing on 9 different new 2012 Toyota models AND get double their down from Toyota AND have $50 donated in their name to the United States Marine Corps' Toys for Tots Program - that's almost like having your cake & eating it too! ;-) Click Here for Details & Important Disclaimers.

Also expect:

And More . . . . or Click for Details.

Black Friday Event

• 1.9% apr available on Toyota Certified Used Vehicles
• 0% apr financing available on 9 different New 2012 Toyota models
• $189/mo Lease* offer on New 2012 Toyota Camry
• Over 338 New Toyota vehicles available to choose from at Burien Toyota
• 1-year, 15,000 mile Maintenance included on just about every used vehicle
• Free Tire Storage of your off-season tires (don't fuss & muss with your snow tires; let us store them for you!)
• Free Quarterly Health Checkup of your Toyota vehicle (shop & compare - we'll look at your check engine light issues for no charge, too!)
• Full-Service Tire Center: your 1-stop shop - we will not be undersold on tires; just put us on your shopping list!
• Buy 3 tires, get the 4th for $1 - details here
• Free New Owner Clinic, with lots of great information, service & maintenance education, discounts, coupons, yummy hors d'oeuvres & door prizes!
• Special Corporate Buying Programs & Fleet Services for numerous local companies
• Easy to get to: just 2 miles west of Sea-Tac Airport...complimentary airport shuttle

*Offer good on new 2012 Camry LE Model 2532, 2.5-liter 4-cylinder DOHC 16-valve dual VVT-I engine; remote keyless entry system with lock, unlock, trunk-release, panic and remote illuminated entry function; tilt/telescopic adjustable steering wheel with audio controls; cruise control; multi-adjustable power driver’s seat with adjustable headrest, seatback pocket and lumbar support; CFC-free air conditioning with air filter; AM/FM CD player with MP3/WMA playback capability, six speakers, XM Compatible (additional hardware and subscription required) and auxiliary audio jack; power windows and locks, plus much more! $189/Mo. – 36 Month Lease. Due at lease signing; includes $2161 Customer Down Payment + First Month’s Payment/$189 + $650 Acquisition Fee, +$500 TFS Lease Subvention Cash for a total of $3500 due at signing. $225 security deposit waived to qualified buyers subject to approved credit through Toyota Financial Services. Good on Tier I PLUS only. 36-month payments total $6,804. Excludes state and local taxes, tags, registration and title, insurance, $150 negotiable documentary service fee, and dealer charges. A $350 Disposition Fee is due at lease termination. Lease Factor .00001. Actual costs should be assessed at dealership and will vary based on individual customer. Closed-End Lease. Lease-end purchase option $13,660. Eligible accessory adds approved from Toyota Financial Services. The manufacturers suggested retail price for the new 2012 Camry LE Model 2532, vin #4T4BF1FK4CR253214 is $24,060. Includes destination charge, but excludes state and local taxes, tags, registration, title and insurance. Adjusted Capitalized Cost is $20,472 based on dealer participation. Other options and dealer charges extra. Lessee may be charged for excessive wear based on Toyota Financial Services standards for normal use and for mileage in excess of 36,000 miles at the rate of $0.15 per mile (low mileage lease). Your payment may vary depending on final price. Delivery must be taken from new 2012 dealer stock between 11/06/12 and 12/3/12 and is subject to availability. Available to qualified customers through Toyota Financial Services. Lease offer may not be combined with APR or cash back offers. Details and qualifications apply.
On Approved Credit, Matching down payment from Toyota Financial Services or trade equity up to $1,000 on any remaining new 2012 Toyota taken from dealer stock 11/23/12 - 11/26/12. Ends 11/26/2012. PHOTOS FOR ILLUSTRATION ONLY

Toyota Takes Top 3 in Consumer Reports Annual Reliability Ranking

Toyota rules the Consumer Report annual reliability rankings with Toyota Motor Co.’s Scion brand taking the number one spot on the list, followed by Lexus and Toyota. The Toyota Prius C received the best overall score of any car on the Consumer Report list!

“We are not surprised by this at all,” said Nathan Ayers of Burien Toyota. “Toyota brands have earned this recognition for reliability through years of creating high quality cars that people have come to count on. Consumers recognize that.”

Scion’s philosophy of creating cars “built by passion-not committee” has taken Scion to the top of the automotive industry. The small size of this Toyota brand allows it to design unique cars that can be personalized to the car-buyer. Attention to detail and this kind of personalization are just a couple reasons that people trust their Scions.

The Toyota Prius C is the smallest of the Prius family, but has made the biggest name for itself after earning  on top of the Consumer Report annual reliability rankings! The Prius C is perfect for getting around town and because it gets 53 mpg, you’ll be doing a lot of getting around. Despite the size of the Prius C, can comfortably fit four and “easy-to-assemble Swedish furniture.”

Toyota Prius C

“When people come to Burien Toyota looking for a hybrid, a lot of them haven’t heard of the Prius C,” Ayers said. “But after they take it for a ride and find out that it gets 53 miles per gallon, they often realize it’s the perfect car for them, especially if they do a lot commuting around Seattle, Tacoma and the entire Puget Sound area. Driving the Prius C makes gas prices a little less painful.”

And the fact that the Prius C starts at just under $19,000 doesn't hurt either.

According to the New York Times article, the Consumer Report ranking was based on “800,000 people submitting information on 1.2 million vehicles from the 2010 to 2012 model years.”

Come to Burien Toyota and Scion to see why Toyotas and Scions were named the most reliable cars and why the Toyota Prius C was named the best overall car by Consumer Report!

http://www.toyota.com/priusc/

http://www.scion.com/about/

http://www.nydailynews.com/autos/toyota-tops-consumer-reports-reliability-survey-article-1.1194707

Burien Toyota is the Best Place Buy Certified Used Cars, Trucks

At Toyota, our philosophy is “The best new cars make the best used cars” because we know that the better a product is made, the longer it will last. Toyota is known for designing and building long-lasting, quality cars, so, naturally, Toyota is the best place to come if you are looking for a used car or truck.

In fact, Burien Toyota can also help you if you’re looking for a Certified Used Hybrid vehicle, like the ever-popular Toyota Prius. All gas and hybrid vehicles go through an intense 160 point inspection before they can be declared “Toyota Certified,” so you can buy with confidence when you buy a used car or truck from Burien Toyota.

“We only want to sell the best used cars and trucks so, we have very specific standards before we even test the vehicle, like that a car must have fewer than 85,000 miles on it and we only sell current models plus six years back.” Nathan Ayers of Burien Toyota said. “After meeting those standards then we check 160 points to prove one point: Only the best vehicles get to be Toyota Certified Used Vehicles.”

This inspection includes:

•  Engine Compartment
• Steering System
• Transmission/Transaxle
• Braking System
• Frame, Structure, Underbody
• Interior Condition/Appearance
• Audio/Alarm Systems
• Instrument Panel and Electronic Systems
• Tires and Suspension Systems

Take a look at our certified used vehicle inventory here! 

Our Certified Used Hybrid candidates actually go through an even more demanding 174 point inspection to make sure that every aspect of that hybrid technology is in tip-top shape, so you can drive your low-emission hybrid home knowing you made a good decision.

See all our Toyota Certified Used Hybrids here! 

Not only do you get to drive away in your Toyota Certified Used car with confidence because you know it was built to last and endured a rigorous inspection, but you can be confident because you also get an exceptional coverage policy when you buy from Burien Toyota:

• 12 month/12,000-mile comprehensive warranty
• 7 year/100,000-mile Limited Powertrain Warranty
• 1 year of FREE roadside assistance
•  Every Toyota Certified Used vehicle comes with a FREE Carfax Vehicle History Report.
• All Toyota Certified Used vehicles purchased from Burien Toyota are also covered by our 1 year/15,000-mile maintenance program. 
• Toyota Certified Used Hybrids are additionally covered with an 8 year/100,000-mile Factory Hybrid Vehicle Battery Warranty.

The Toyota Certified Used Vehicle coverage plan is honored at more than 1,400 Toyota dealers in the United States and Canada, so you can travel knowing that we’ve got you covered.

For more information about buying a Toyota Certified Used Vehicle from Burien Toyota, go to our Certified Inventory information page, visit www.burienToyota.com,   or stop by the dealership today!

Burien Toyota Provides Award-Winning Service

There are a lot of places potential car buyers could go purchase a vehicle. But if you come to Burien Toyota, you won’t just find any vehicle; Burien Toyota will help you find the perfect vehicle for you and then provide amazing support after you drive it off the lot. Even after you buy a vehicle form Burien Toyota, we still take care of you with our award-winning service department and service!

When we talk to people about buying a Toyota hybrid vehicle, some people are a little concerned about maintaining this newer technology. With Burien Toyota behind you, there’s no need to worry whether you own hybrid or not.

“Our technicians are experts in hybrid technology,” said Nathan Ayers of Burien Toyota. “Hybrid technology is not as expensive or ‘mysterious’ as it was ten years ago. The ASE and Toyota Certified Technicians in our award-winning service department know what they’re doing and we can usually do it at lower price than “discount centers.” We are also your hybrid headquarters with the latest technologies and coolest accessories.”

Burien Toyota is also one of the only dealers in the Puget Sound area with a state-of-the art Collision Center! We know how to take care of you whether you bought your car from us or not because we know that accidents can happen. We are also home to the Genuine Toyota parts Center where you can get one-of-a-kind parts and accessories for all your vehicle needs.

Burien Toyota also provides FREE quarterly health check ups on your Toyota or Scion. Speaking of free, Burien Toyota will also store your snow or off-season tires for free, eliminating all kinds of hassle for you.

For you chance to see all that Burien Toyota can offer you with our incredible inventory of new and used vehicles, maintenance and service support, and more, come by Burien Toyota today!

Burien Toyota: Toyota Prius Headquarter South of Seattle

The Toyota Prius has set the standard for hybrid vehicles. It has sold more than double the units of any other hybrid vehicle. Why? Because the Toyota Prius is dependable, eco-friendly, driver-friendly and wallet-friendly.

The Toyota Prius hybrid has been around long enough to get any kinks worked out, so you know you are getting a quality Toyota vehicle when you purchase a Prius. And when you purchase your Prius from Burien Toyota, you know you will get a hassle-free experience!

But how do you start the process of buying your Toyota Prius from Burien Toyota (your headquarters for all hybrid technology and Toyota Prius experts)?

Toyota Prius V

Start by perusing the entire Toyota Prius inventory at Burien Toyota, including all new models like the awesome 2012 Toyota Prius C, and all pre-owned cars! There are four members of the Toyota Prius family: the Prius Liftback (the model you are probably most familiar with), the Prius V Wagon, the Prius C and now the Prius Plug-In. There is a Toyota Prius for everyone and with gas prices so high here in Western Washington, you can’t afford not to look at the Toyota Prius, which gets around 50 mpg!  

“We love to sell Toyota Priuses,” said Nathan Ayers of Burien Toyota. “People come in with high expectation but they don’t expect as many options as we have. With four models now, there’s really something for everyone and Burien Toyota is your hybrid headquarters with all the latest technology and accessories to make sure you are 100% happy and excited to drive your new Prius home.”

While the Toyota Prius Liftback model is plenty roomy (offering more legroom and cargo space than even the Toyota Camry, according to the New York Times), the Toyota Prius V is five inches longer and the cargo volume is more than 13 cubic feet larger. It is perfect for families who still want to be conscious of their environmental footprint and still get about 44 mpg!

Toyota Prius C

The newer Toyota Prius C is perfect for city commuters and urban dwellers. It’s fun to drive, easy to park and get’s 53 mpg in the city and 46 mpg on the highway. In fact, the Toyota Prius C tops the list of Consumer Reports most reliable cars for the 2012 model year! Just in case you need more convincing, build your own ToyotaPrius C right here.

“We know high gas prices really impact the budget, so what do you have to lose in coming to Burien Toyota and taking a Prius for a test drive?” Ayers said. “You will be impressed with how big the interior is and feels and, of course, the industry-leading gas mileage. Give us a call, stop by, take a Toyota Prius for a test drive!”

Come down to Burien Toyota today to test drive the best-selling hybrid in the industry: the Toyota Prius!

Burien Toyota, Chevrolet: Seattle Area Drop off Locations for Toys for Tots

Burien Toyota and Burien Chevrolet do much more than sell vehicles. Burien Toyota (or should we say “Toy-ota?”) and Burien Chevrolet are a part of the Burien community who have supported the community for many years. And while these dealerships do a lot to give back, it is now the time of year when many focus on the most vulnerable of our community: our community's children.

Burien Toyota and Burien Chevrolet dealerships are drop-off locations for nationwide Marine Corps Reserve’s Toys for Tots program. New and unwrapped toys can be dropped of at both of these locations through December 22.

“Here at Burien Toyota, we are involved in so many community programs, but Toys for Tots has to be one of our favorites,” said Nathan Ayers of Burien Toyota. “Maybe it’s because of the holiday season, maybe it’s because Toys for Tots is all about bringing joy to kids. It’s probably a combination of both. We love being a drop-off location knowing that we are making it easier for our community to give to kids who may not have a whole lot this holiday season. Together, we can make a difference to a lot of kids.”

Toys for Tots was founded in 1947 and has since become the “unchallenged leader in looking after America’s needy children at Christmas.” The program has collected and distributed more than 407,000,000 toys!

“Burien Toyota and Burien Chevrolet are proud to be a part of such storied program as Toys for Tots,” said Ayers. “Bring one toy, bring lots of toys. Either way, you will make some child’s Christmas a little be brighter.”

Toys can be dropped off at Burien Toyota from now through Dec. 22. The toys will then be collected and distributed to needy children by enlisting the help of local social welfare agencies and churches.

The Toys for Tots literature says it best: “Christmas is a time of joy, happiness, and goodwill. It is time of giving and helping those who are less fortunate then ourselves, especially impoverished children.”

Join Burien Toyota and Burien Chevrolet in helping our community’s children by dropping off a toy today!

Burien Toyota is located at: 15025 1^st Ave South, Burien, WA 98148

Burien Chevrolet is located at: 14400 1^st Ave South, Seattle, WA 98168

Major Rental Companies Agree Not to Rent Recalled Cars

In what can be declared as a “Good News!” moment and win for common sense, “major U.S. car rental companies have agreed to support legislation banning the renting of recalled vehicles.”

Most Americans may not realize that, while dealerships are barred from selling/reselling vehicles that have been recalled, rental car companies are still allowed to rent such recalled vehicles without fixing them. This had tragic consequences when the rental company Enterprise rented a recalled Chrysler PT Cruiser to Raechel and Jacqueline Houck who were killed when the car began leaking steering fluid, caught on fire and crashed into oncoming traffic. The PT Cruiser had been recalled for issues with the steering column but had not been fixed by Enterprise.

The rental car bill is named the Raechel and Jacqueline Houck Safe Rental Car Act of 2012, after the girls.

"We couldn't bring my daughters back so we had to go forward and we had to look at stopping this unsafe and disastrous process," Kelly Houck, mother of the girls, said.

Enterprise is one of the major car companies that is now supporting the legislation to ban car companies for renting recalled vehicles. Other car companies include Hertz, Avis Budget, and Dollar Thrifty.

“I had no idea rental car companies could rent you a recalled car,” said Andrew Miller of Puyallup, a frequent business traveler. “That’s really scary. That’s really scary that they could do that and customers really would have no idea that they are driving a potentially unsafe car. At least if you own the car, you get notified of the defect. If you’re just renting the car, you don’t know there’s a problem and you are still behind the wheel. This legislation should have happened sooner, if you ask me.”

One of the sponsors of the bill, Senator Barbara Boxer of California, said car companies would implement the necessary policies before the bill was actually passed, which should happen during the lame-duck session after the presidential election.

According to one article, “The new Senate bill would require that rental companies ground a recalled vehicle no later than 24 hours after the rental company gets the recall notice. Rental companies will have up to 48 hours for recall that include more than 5,000 vehicles in their fleet.”

David Strickland, administrator of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, said in a statement that the agreement was "a major win for safety on our roadways and in our communities."

Burien Toyota commends these rental car companies and legislators for doing the right thing and encourage everyone else to follow suit and endorse this legislation.

http://www.travelweekly.com/Travel-News/Car-Rental-News/Car-rental-companies-agree-not-to-rent-recalled-vehicles/

http://www.freep.com/article/20120928/BUSINESS01/309280063/Car-rental-companies-to-support-legislation-on-recalls

Innovation Drives Toyota

This is the last article of our “Toyota in Action” series and it focuses on innovation. Really, you could say everything in the previous articles about Toyota operations, dedication to community, the people of Toyota, improvements in safety, and efforts to preserve the environment illustrates Toyota’s dedication to continually improve itself and the world around us.

Whether it’s developing programs to teach communities how to properly restrain their children, developing and implementing the Star Safety System in all vehicles, or developing environmentally friendly manufacturing processes and products, the spirit of innovation is what really drives Toyota.

The Toyota Production System Support Center (TSSC) supports 20 community and non-profit organizations around the country “using TPS to help improve their operations, extend their reach and increase their impact.” One of these organizations is Herman Miller, which uses the Toyota Production System (TPS) to make its operations more efficient and flexible. Toyota uses creativity, efficiency and innovation to make a difference to many different people.

Another way Toyota is being innovative is by partnering up with Tesla Motors to develop and manufacture electric vehicles like the new all electric Toyota RAV4.

“In total, Toyota has invested $50 million in Tesla. Working side-by-side with Tesla is just one example of Toyota’s emphasis on supporting environmentally sensitive mobility, and developing advanced technology vehicles to meet the needs of our consumers today — and tomorrow.”

Toyota is also partnering with Microsoft to make your car smarter and your drive more efficient.

“Integrating technology inside your car can mean much more than just connecting your smart phone. It can also improve your gas mileage and help the environment, which is why Toyota is partnering with Microsoft to develop the next generation of in-car technology. The partnership will create a new system that doesn’t just give our drivers access to entertainment and navigation features, but also will allow you to better manage energy consumption inside and outside of your car — while you drive, when the car is charging, and even in your home.”

Ok, ok. We could exhaust you with all the ways that Toyota is innovative and write pages with examples of the results of Toyota’s innovation. Instead, check out the rest of the Toyota in Action series blog articles or go to www.ToyotainAction.com and be sure to stop by www.burientoyota.com.

Toyota Dedicated to Preserve the Environment

This is part of our six-part Toyota in Action series. See our previous articles on Toyota operations, Toyota’s community involvement, how Toyota makes driving safer and the people of Toyota.

When you think of Toyota vehicles, you may think of the current quintessential Toyota: the Toyota Prius. The Toyota Prius has set the standard and blazed the trail of environmentally friendly hybrid vehicles. The Toyota Prius as earned many environmental awards, but Toyota’s dedication to the environment is more than just one vehicle. It’s the way Toyota does business.

“Protecting the environment is a commitment that affects all our operations — from the efficient, environmentally sensitive vehicles we design, to the emphasis we place on sustainable business, manufacturing and building practices across our company.”

While more than 1 million Toyota hybrid vehicles have been sold in the United States since 2000 (3 million have been sold globally) and there are 11 hybrid models on the road, Toyota is also committed to making sure the manufacturing process is as low-impact as possible. Ten Toyota plants in North America have earned Leed Certification (https://new.usgbc.org/leed) awarded by the U.S. Green Building Council. This means that Toyota’s plants implement improved strategies “for better environmental and health performance. Some aspects of these standards include energy consumption, water consumption and the incorporation of low-impact building materials.” 

“Protecting the environment is one of the most important things we can do as a company. We make it a cornerstone of our business – from the actions we take to reduce the environmental impact of our products to the environmentally sensitive practices we employ to build, distribute and sell them.”

In fact, it’s not just the manufacturing plants that are working hard to protect the environment: 18 dealerships across the country have also achieved Leed Certification. 

The reason Toyota cares so deeply about the environment is because of the affect it could have on future generations. And who else cares more about future generations than educators? That’s why Toyota teamed up in the Institute of International Education and the Bren School of Environmental Science and Management “to better prepare teachers to advance environmental stewardship and global connectedness in their classrooms, schools and across their communities. Each year, the program sends educators overseas for 2-3 week study tours in countries at the forefront of innovative solutions to environmental challenges.”

Since the program began in 1998, more than 600 teachers have been sent to Japan, the Galapagos Islands and Costa Rica. Teachers who traveled to South Africa in 2011 were able to teach their students what they were learning in South Africa using social media-based virtual technology provided by Toyota. Teachers came home with more knowledge and more passion that they were able to instill in their students and a future generation.

Toyota is dedicated to the environment by doing what it can on and off the road. Toyota didn’t hesitate to assist the World Wildlife Fund preserve the Galapagos Islands and working with the Ecuardorian to develop more sustainable and renewable energy sources for this incredible ecosystem. From the islands in the Pacific Ocean to New York City where Toyota has planted 500,000 trees of the 1 million it pledged to plant, Toyota works with local and worldwide organizations to make the world a little better for our children.

Toyota’s dedication to the environment is all about looking to the future, providing educational opportunities and applying new technology to make a difference. Check it out:

http://www.toyotainaction.com/environment/story/imagining-new-ways-to-drive-dc

“At Toyota, we believe the best way to have an impact on the environment is to have as little impact as possible. That’s why our environmental commitment is built into everything we do — from innovative fuel technologies to supporting a range of "green" initiatives to a drive for zero waste in our plants.”

For more information about what Toyota is doing to make positive impact on the environment, go to www.toyotainaction.com/environment. 

Toyota is Dedicated to Making Drivers, Passengers Safer

This is part of our six part Toyota in Action series. See our previous articles on operations, community, and the people of Toyota.

Safety is generally one of the biggest concerns of car buyers when they are considering buying a new automobile. Studies have shown that fewer people are dying in car collisions and the biggest reason is because cars are built smarter and safer. Toyota is dedicated not just to building safer cars, but also educating teens and parents about safer driving and investing in the future of safety technology.

Of course, when people think of automobile safety, they think of safe cars. Here are some of the highlights from Toyota’s automobiles:

• 100% of new Toyotas are equipped with the new Star Safety System and Smartshop Brake Override Technology, the first full-line manufacturer to do so.
• There are six advanced safety features in the Star Safety System: Vehicle Stability Control, Traction Control, Anti-Lock Brake System, Electronic Brake-Force Distribution, Brake Assist, and Smart Stop Technology.
• Toyota invests $1 million per hour into research and development to create safer cars

While many automakers, including Toyota, tout great safety measures that prevent injury when a collision occurs, Toyota also invests in programs that prevent collisions and serious injuries, including teen driving programs like the Toyota Driving Expectations (TDE) and Toyota Teen Driver (TTD). Toyota knows that getting a driver’s license is an exciting rite of passage for teens, but the first year of driving is also the most dangerous. Parents want their children to be safe, so in addition to these teen driving programs, Toyota has listed a few tips to help parents with teen-driver safety:

• Be the driver you want your child to be. Parents are the first and best driving instructors, role models who lead by example.
• Insist that your teen always wear a seat belt. Peer pressure or image consciousness must never take a backseat to safety.
•  Educate your teen to avoid distractions and limit all secondary activity – which includes not just texting and cell phone use but eating while driving, bringing pets into the vehicle, and other outside elements that might interfere with keeping one’s eyes on the road.
•  Restrict teen passengers, whether friends or relatives. For every additional teen passenger in the car, chances increase for the creation of distractions that could lead to accidents.

5.       Set expectations with your teen for safe driving by developing together a “driving contract” that outlines expected behaviors, consequences, and rewards. For an example of what such an agreement might look like, visit http://toyotateendriver.discoveryeducation.com/parents.cfm#mta.

In addition to teen safety programs, Toyota has also teamed up with Cincinnati Children’s Hospital and Medical Center to create a child restraint education program called Buckle Up For Life. The founding director of Trauma Services at the hospital noticed a disturbing trend: that African-American and Hispanic children were three to four times more likely to suffer serious injury or death in an automobile collision. One of these children was Reyna Hernandez who had to re-learn to walk after being thrown from a car because she was not wearing a seat belt. Reyna overcame her injuries and is now a doctor supporting Buckle Up For Life. Watch this video on Reyna’s experience and Buckle Up For Life:

http://www.toyotainaction.com/safety/story/reyna-hernandezs-story

Three out of four car seats are installed incorrectly; Toyota thinks that is too many. Toyota cares about the future of all children and believes that all children should ride safely. Buckle Up For Life is focused on educating parents and guardians in African-American and Hispanic communities about the importance of properly using and installing car seats and other child safety technology.

To Toyota, safety isn’t just about making its own cars safer; the goal of Toyota is to improve automotive safety as a whole. As a result, Toyota invested $50 million to launch the Collaborative Safety Research Center that is “devoted to spurring the advancement of automotive safety in North America based on the three pillars of collaborative research, accident data analysis, and outreach…” Safety information discovered at the CSRC is available to the entire auto industry.

“By partnering with leading North American universities, hospitals, research institutions, federal agencies, and other organizations, CSRC is working to reduce traffic fatalities and injuries on America’s roads by better understanding the complex dynamics between vehicle, driver, and traffic environment. The Center's current focus is on protecting children, teens and seniors — the three most vulnerable groups on the road. Together with our ever-growing team of partners, including our Charter Partners at The University of Michigan, Virginia Tech, and The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, we're examining ways to reduce driver distraction, studying the effectiveness of an electronic coaching and monitoring system for teen drivers, and creating a national crash surveillance system focused on child occupants of vehicles-- with more programs and partners to come.”

So whether it is behind the scenes in research and education or utilizing Toyotas six-point Star Safety System into all new automobiles, you know that Toyota is dedicated to keeping their drivers and passengers, and all drivers and passengers, safer.

For more information about Toyota’s dedication to safety, go to www.ToyotainAction.com or www.toyota.com/safety.