Prime Mover: Toyota Maxes Out Tech and Style in the World's Best-Selling Hybrid to Create the 2017 Prius Prime

• Ultra-efficient Prius with Plug-in Hybrid Powertrain
• Manufacturer-estimated 120 MPGe
• Available in 50 States
• Techno-wonder with Available 11.6-inch Multimedia HD Display, Head-up Display and Wireless Phone Charging
• A Total Package in Every Aspect, Adding Up to Great Value

If there’s electricity in the air at the 2016 New York International Auto Show, it’s probably coming from the Toyota display, where the world’s hybrid vehicle leader has unveiled the new Prius Prime, an ultra-efficient model with a plug-in hybrid powertrain. “Prime” means best, making it the perfect name for one of the most technologically advanced, best-equipped Prius in the model’s history.

The Prius Prime’s manufacturer-estimated 120 or above MPGe (miles per gallon equivalent) is expected to be the highest MPGe rating of any Plug-in Hybrid.* It also represents a substantial 26-percent enhancement over its predecessor, a result of greater battery capacity and an improved hybrid system. In hybrid mode, the Prius Prime is targeting a hybrid MPG equal to or better than the Prius liftback.

The 2017 Prius Prime combines an electrifying design with an even more capable electric powertrain than the previous-generation Prius Plug-in Hybrid. The Prius Prime is expected to offer an estimated two times the electric range of the previous model -- 22 miles  – meeting the daily commuter distance of over half of U.S. drivers,  and drive at speeds up to 84 mph without leaving EV mode.

As parsimonious with fuel as the Prius Prime may be, it drives with the same verve as the standard new-generation Prius hybrid, one result of the new high-strength platform and double-wishbone independent rear suspension.

Prius Prime adds even more premium touches and exclusive tech features compared to the all-new Prius hybrid, including its available 11.6-inch, HD central multimedia screen with standard navigation and available full color head-up display. “Prime” also describes the vehicle’s available advanced safety technology, Toyota Safety Sense™ P. This multi-feature advanced active safety suite, bundles the Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection and Automatic Braking; Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist; Full-Speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control with full stop technology and Automatic High Beams.  Blind Spot Monitor and Rear Cross Traffic Alert are also available for additional peace of mind.

All 2017 Prius hybrid models come standard with eight supplemental restraint system airbags, including multi-stage driver and front passenger front airbags; driver and front passenger side airbags; full-length curtain airbags; a driver knee airbag, and a front passenger seat cushion airbag.
 
Electrifying Design Cheats the Wind … and the Scales 
If the 2017 Prius Prime looks like the future, it was purely intentional on the designers’ part. The new-generation Prius Prime is 2.4 inches longer, 0.6 inches wider and about an inch lower than its predecessor. The growth boosts cargo room over its predecessor and gives the Prius Prime a road-hugging stance.

The wind-cheating body and its high-strength/low weight structure are critical factors in the Prius Prime’s astoundingly low energy consumption. Its coefficient of drag is expected to be among the lowest for production sedans. Automatic grille shutters help reduce drag by closing when airflow to the radiator is not needed.

Yet the Prius Prime is no aero jellybean. It’s chiseled profile and edgy character lines seem to dare the wind to stand in its way. Energy-conserving quad LED headlights glow like diamonds cutting the night, and LED rear combination lamps leave an unforgettable nighttime signature. Driver visibility remains excellent, aided by a full-width aero glass panel over the rear spoiler and a standard backup camera.  The distinctive aero rear window is eye-catching and adds to its slipstream character.

While giving the new-generation Prius models more features, Toyota kept vehicle weight in check by using aluminum for the hood, carbon fiber on the rear hatch, and by using high-tensile strength steel in other parts of the structure.  In fact, the lightweight carbon fiber rear hatch makes opening and closing almost effortless.
 
EV or Hybrid? Both.
The Prius Prime will please anyone who wants to reduce trips to the gas pump, and it would make a great road trip car, too. The Prius Prime will allow drivers to stay in EV mode in more situations, helping to enhance vehicle range on one tank of fuel.  You can plug it in, gas it up, or both.  On one 11.3-gallon tank of regular-grade gasoline and a full electric charge, the 2017 Prius Prime anticipates a class-leading estimated total driving range of over 600 miles (Toyota recommends making occasional stops to refuel and recharge yourself and passengers).
 
Mechanical Genius
Both the standard Prius hybrid and the Prius Prime are powered by Toyota’s Hybrid Synergy Drive powertrain, which seamlessly combines the output of the gasoline engine and electric motor through a planetary-type continuously variable transmission.  The biggest difference is that the Prius Prime can be plugged in at home to recharge its larger 8.8kWh battery pack.

In Hybrid mode, the Prius Prime can run on the gasoline engine or electric motor alone or a combination of both. Even when not running in EV mode, the Prius Prime will automatically rely more on its electric capability in situations where it is more efficient than running the gasoline engine, especially in urban and suburban driving and during shorter trips.

The Prius Prime will also feature a Toyota-first dual motor generator drive system, using both the electric motor and the generator for drive force, helping to boost acceleration performance.  Regenerative braking recaptures electrical energy under deceleration and braking and stores it in the battery, which helps to reduce fuel consumption.

Even better, there’s no special equipment for home charging.  Just use the supplied cord and the Prius Prime takes approximately 5.5 hours using a standard household outlet.  Charging takes less than half the time with a 240V source.    
 
Efficiency Expert
Not to be overshadowed by all the electrical magic, the Prius Prime’s gasoline engine also plays a starring role in that efficiency. The 1.8-liter Atkinson-cycle, 4-cylinder engine – the same as in all 2016 Prius hybrid models – earns a groundbreaking 40 percent-plus thermal efficiency. Most modern automobile engines reach about 25-30 percent. Myriad details throughout the hybrid powertrain contribute to the efficiency, including an exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system with a cooler, smaller, lighter, quieter hybrid system water pump and an exhaust heat recirculation system that speeds engine warm-up.
 
Looks Marvelous, Feels Marvelous
The Prius Prime looks and feels far from frugal on the inside, where a four-seat cabin layout, with center console running front to back, looks more like a high-end luxury coupe. Practicality remains ever present, however, with standard 60/40 folding rear seatbacks. It’s a quiet cabin, too, thanks to the sound-insulating laminated windshield and front door glass and the optimized aero shape that helps keep wind noise where it belongs – outside.

The Prius Prime coddles the driver and passengers with standard heated front seats, an automatic climate control system, and available SofTex® synthetic leather trimmed seats. The climate control system is quieter, thanks to an electric compressor, and it’s smarter, focusing airflow only to areas where occupants are seated in order to help maximize fuel economy and comfort.  The climate control system can also operate without the engine on, with a heat pump that allows the system to cool or heat the cabin while driving in EV mode.   The driver can activate the remote air conditioning system with an available key fob or smartphone app to cool the interior before entering the cabin. 
           
High Tech, Low Effort
The centrally mounted gauge panel, a Prius hallmark since the model’s inception, appears to float above the dashboard. The panel features dual 4.2-inch full-color TFT (thin film transistor) multi-information displays, and the driver can change their content by using steering wheel controls.
 
The display provides a multitude of readouts for hybrid energy information and more, and the driver can choose how much information to view.  Want to cut the cord? With available wireless cell phone charging for Qi-compatible devices, just place your Qi-compatible devices on the console pad to charge it wirelessly.
 
Multimedia Mogul
Sound and vision inside the Prius Prime likewise meet the standard of “prime.” Toyota equipped this top Prius with its top Entune® multimedia system and made it all accessible through a new and exclusive 11.6-inch HD tablet display. The navigation graphics look simply stunning, and intuitive touch controls make operation a snap.

Prius Prime will also offer an exclusive suite of Prius Prime Apps, allowing you to remotely manage your vehicle’s charging schedule and status, locate charging stations, track and compare your eco driving score with others on social media, remotely control the vehicle’s climate system, and more – all from your smartphone.  It’s advanced eco at your fingertips.

An available Entune™ Premium JBL® Audio system with Integrated Navigation and App Suite puts 10 JBL GreenEdge™ speakers in six locations for sonic bliss. The Entune™ Multimedia Bundle includes AM/FM cache radio (letting you pause songs and play later), HD Radio™, HD Radio™ predictive traffic and Doppler weather overlay, SiriusXM® Satellite Radio with 3-month complimentary SiriusXM All Access trial and Gracenote® album cover art.

Of course there’s a USB 2.0 port with iPod® connectivity and control, plus advanced voice recognition and hands-free phone capability, phonebook access and music streaming via Bluetooth®. For iPhone users, Siri® Eyes Free mode adds yet another in-car assistant.

The Entune™ App Suite adds yet more music sources, including Slacker Radio, iHeartRadio and Pandora® as well as Destination Search, MovieTickets.com, OpenTable®, Facebook Places, Yelp™ plus real-time traffic, weather, fuel prices, sports and stocks. Access to Entune® services is subscription-free.
 
Built-in Parking Valet
In the urban jungle, where hunting for a prime parking space is a sport, the Prius Prime wins. Available Intelligent Parking Assist (IPA) uses ultrasonic wave sensors to size up a parallel parking space and then, when activated by the driver, can steer the car into it. The system can also reverse the Prius Prime into perpendicular spaces and automatically steer it out of a parallel space.

When the way forward gets narrow, such as in a parking garage, the system’s Intelligent Clearance Sonar provides visible and audible warnings if the driver gets too close to obstacles on the vehicle’s sides.

The 2017 Prius Prime will begin arriving in Toyota showrooms in late fall.

Milestones and Memories: Toyota Marks Corolla’s 50th Anniversary

• World’s all-time best-selling car partners with actresses Gina Rodriguez and Hannah Simone to share Corolla memories
• Toyota unveils limited 50th Anniversary Special Edition Corolla with unique features
• Refreshed 2017 Corolla gets new safety and technology features

Actress Gina Rodriguez drove her Corolla cross-country to Hollywood to follow her dreams. Actress Hannah Simone learned to drive inside her dad’s pristinely kept Corolla. With more than 43 million vehicles sold over the last 50 years, the Toyota Corolla has been a part of more people’s lives than any car ever manufactured. To celebrate the Corolla’s status as the world’s all-time best-selling car and the important role it has played for millions of drivers, Toyota today launched the Corolla 50th Anniversary campaign – a year-long effort showcasing how the Corolla has powered more memories, milestones and moments than any car in the world.

Always focused on providing quality and style in one economical package, the first Corolla went on sale in Japan in November 1966, and came to the U.S. in 1968. The car proved to be an instant success, helping transform Toyota’s global reach and more than doubling its total annual production from 480,000 to 1.1 million vehicles from 1965 to 1968. Just in time for the Corolla’s 50th anniversary celebration, the 2017 Toyota Corolla receives a refreshed look and new features, including available Toyota Safety Sense-P technology and a standard back-up camera on all models. The 2017 Corolla XSE and 50th Anniversary Special Edition are on display at the New York International Auto Show.

Exceptional and Everyday Stories  
Corolla may be the world’s best-selling car of all-time, but for Rodriguez and Simone it represents fun memories and personal adventures. Each shared their humorous stories through a partnership with BuzzFeed, encouraging other Corolla drivers to do the same with the hashtag #Corolla50. The actresses’ videos and other Corolla 50th anniversary content will be featured atcorolla50.toyota.com, a website dedicated to celebrating the Corolla’s 50-year heritage, driver stories and user-generated content tagged #Corolla50. The site also features a sweepstakes with the opportunity to win a 2017 Corolla. See corolla50.toyota.com for rules and information.

“I’ll always have a special place in my heart for my Corolla that helped me move from New York to Los Angeles,” Rodriguez said. “My Corolla meant so much to me because it held all the memories of my struggle and taught me strength early on. Happy 50th Corolla, and thanks for always having my back.”

Another influential voice who also began his career with a Corolla was none other than Akio Toyoda, president and CEO of Toyota Motor Corporation. A used 4-door Corolla GT captured his heart in the 1980s when he was fresh out of college.

“My used 4th generation Corolla 1600 GT was like a best friend to me. I shared my youth with it! That car showed me the joy of driving. It represented freedom, fun and first forays in the business world,” Toyoda said.  “Not only did my Corolla influence me and my own path, but this vehicle— supported by fans and customers—helped transform Toyota as a company around the world.”

The Corolla’s influence on Toyota is a result of its global reach and scale. From the start in 1966, Toyota planned to build 30,000 Corollas a month when at the time monthly production was only 50,000 vehicles total. But Corolla was an instant hit. Success in the U.S. helped global sales reach 1 million just four years after launch, and by 1970, Corolla was already the second best-selling import in the country.

Today, Toyota sells approximately 1.5 million Corollas globally a year. Workers around the world assemble Corollas at 16 plants worldwide, including at Toyota’s plants in Blue Springs, Miss. (since October 2011), and in Cambridge, Ontario, Canada (since November 1988).

Contributing to its success, the Corolla has continued to evolve over five decades. Its first version ushered in new technologies like the MacPherson strut suspension, a compact engine with a five-bearing crankshaft, two-speed wipers and back-up lights. Drivers over the years fell in love with a variety of models from family-friendly sedans, the three-door "liftback" E50 and sports coupé E51, the fun-to-drive AE86 and all-new, sportier 11th generation Corolla. Fans can see representations from all 11 generations and create Corolla stories to share at corolla50.toyota.com.

New Look for Today’s Drivers
The 2017 Corolla gets exciting updates to match the styles and on-the-go needs of today’s drivers. All Corolla vehicle grades have available Toyota Safety Sense-P, which is a host of safety features including:

• Pre-collision system with pedestrian detection function
• Dynamic radar cruise control
• Lane departure alert with steering assist function
• Automatic high beams

Drivers can feel confident the 2017 Corolla is a smart choice for their lifestyles. Standard features now include a back-up camera, bi-LED headlamps on L, LE and LE Eco grades, complex-LED standard on SE, XSE and XLE grades and a redesigned, upgraded interior, including audio enhancements focused on comfort and convenience. A more aggressive front grille and two new exterior colors give Corolla a modern look to match the spirited driving experience.

The newest Corolla will remain a standout in its segment with roomy rear seats, standard Bluetooth, and Entune Audio, available Entune Audio Plus with Connected Navigation (Scout® GPS Link App) or available Entune Premium Audio with Integrated Navigation and App Suite. Both the Entune Audio Plus and Entune Premium Audio systems move from a 6.1-inch screen to a 7-inch screen for 2017. Even after 50 years, the newest Corolla delivers against drivers’ needs wherever and whatever they are.
 
50th Anniversary Special Edition
Based on the sporty 2017 Corolla SE, the 50th Anniversary Special Edition package reflects Corolla’s continuous commitment to driver happiness. The custom package of features brings in exclusive details to celebrate the love this car earns around the world. Just 8,000 will be sold in the U.S.

The model includes:

• 17” Alloy Wheels with Dark Gray Inserts and Machine Finish
• 7-inch High-Resolution Touch-Screen
• Entune Audio Plus with Connected Navigation (Scout® GPS Link App)
• Color 4.2-inch TFT Multi-Information Display
• Smart Key system with push button start
• Complex-LED Headlamps
• Black mixed media seats with Black Cherry contrast stitching
• Black interior with Black Cherry contrast stitching on steering wheel, shift boot and center armrest
• Black cherry accented dash panel and door trim
• 50th Anniversary Edition floor mats
• 50th Anniversary Edition exterior badge
• Available Moonroof

Available in three exterior colors – exclusive color Black Cherry, Classic Silver, Blizzard Pearl – the special edition will be available beginning in Fall 2016.
 
Continuing Corolla Celebration
The New York International Auto Show gave Corolla a kickoff to a year that will continue to celebrate the love of its drivers. In June, a restored 1970 Corolla will crisscross the country from San Rafael, California to Moline, Illinois in the Great Race.  And all year, Toyota will continue to hold up drivers’ stories as the true measure of Corolla’s success.

For more information about Corolla history, visit www.toyota-global.com/showroom/vehicle_heritage/corolla/.
 

Toyota Will Make Automated Braking Standard on Nearly Every Model and Trim Level by End of 2017

Toyota Safety Sense Packages to be Standard Equipment Four Years Before NHTSA Industry AEB Target

Advanced automatic safety technology that was once available on only the most expensive new vehicles is about to be included as standard equipment on almost every Lexus and Toyota model and trim level in the United States. Announced today at the New York Auto Show, Toyota will begin to include the Lexus Safety System+™ and Toyota Safety Sense™ packages, anchored by automatic emergency braking (AEB), on almost every new vehicle by the end of 2017.
 
The announcement marks a major commitment by Toyota to help save lives and reduce highway injuries.  Making Lexus Safety System+™ and Toyota Safety Sense™ standard equipment on almost every model by the end of 2017 will make AEB technology widely available four years ahead of the 2022 industry target announced last week by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).
 
“At Toyota, we are committed to creating better ways to move for everyone,” said Jim Lentz, CEO of Toyota Motor North America. “High-level driver assist technologies can do more than help protect people in the event of a crash; they can help prevent some crashes from ever happening in the first place. We are proud to help lead this industry in standardizing these systems and bring automated braking to our customers sooner rather than later.”
 
Already available as a low-cost option on a broad range of Lexus and Toyota vehicles, Lexus Safety System+™ and Toyota Safety Sense™ are designed to help address three key areas of driver assistance: preventing or mitigating frontal collisions – including pedestrians; helping keep drivers within their lane; and enhancing road safety during nighttime driving. Technologies include Toyota’s Pre-Collision System, Lane Departure Alert, and Automatic High Beams.
 
Twenty-five out of thirty Lexus and Toyota models will include Lexus Safety System+™ or Toyota Safety Sense™ as standard equipment.  Model-specific target dates for offering these advanced, active safety packages as standard equipment will be announced at a later date. Models that will not offer the systems standard by the end of 2017 include Lexus GX, Toyota Mirai, 4Runner, and 86 (jointly developed with Subaru), and Scion iA (developed by Mazda).  Mirai and Scion iA currently provide pre-collision including AEB as standard equipment.
 
ABOUT TOYOTA SAFETY SENSE
 
The Toyota Safety Sense™ C (TSS-C) package features three proprietary active safety technologies and combines a camera and laser beam for enhanced performance and reliability. The package can help prevent or mitigate collisions in a wide range of vehicle speeds.
 

• Pre-collision System (PCS) – Vehicle Detection

PCS uses a camera and laser beam to detect the vehicle ahead.  When the system determines there is a possibility of collision, it prompts the driver to take evasive action and brake by using an audio and visual alert. These alerts operate when the vehicle’s speed is between approximately 7 to 87 miles-per-hour.  If the driver notices the hazard and brakes, the system may provide additional braking force using Brake Assist *3. If the driver does not brake in a set time, and the system determines that the possibility of a frontal collision with another vehicle is extremely high, the system may automatically apply the brakes, reducing speed by approximately 19 mph *1 in order to help the driver reduce the impact and in certain cases avoid the collision. The operational range of PCS covers speeds at which at least 80 percent of rear-end collisions occur (i.e. relative speeds of between approximately 7 – 50 mph). 

• Lane Departure Alert (LDA)

LDA uses a camera to detect visible white and yellow lane markings in front of the vehicle and the vehicle’s position on the road. If the system determines that the vehicle is starting to unintentionally deviate from its lane, the system alerts the driver with an audio and visual alert. When the alerts occur, the driver must check the surrounding road situation and carefully operate the steering wheel to move the vehicle back to the center part of their lane.

• Automatic High Beam (AHB)

AHB4 is a safety system designed to help drivers see more of what's ahead at nighttime without dazzling other drivers. When enabled, Automatic High Beams uses an in-vehicle camera to help detect the headlights of oncoming vehicles and tail lights of preceding vehicles, then automatically switches between high and low beams as appropriate to provide the most light possible and enhance forward visibility.

 
Toyota Safety Sense™ P combines a camera and millimeter-wave radar for enhanced performance and reliability. In addition to the three active safety technologies included in the Toyota Safety Sense™ C package, the Pre-collision System offered with this package also includes a pedestrian detection function. Toyota Safety Sense P also offers Radar Cruise Control functionality.  (see below) TSS-P enhances the Pre-Collision System by enhancing speed ranges/speed reduction capability for potential collisions with a preceding vehicle and adding a Pedestrian Detection function, enhances LDA by adding a Steering Assist function on certain models, and adds Dynamic Radar Cruise Control.
 

• Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Pre-collision function – Vehicle and Pedestrian Detection

Vehicle Detection

PCS uses millimeter-wave radar and a camera to help detect the vehicle ahead of the vehicle.  When the system determines there is a possibility of collision it prompts the driver to take evasive action and brake, by using an audio and visual alert. These alerts operate when the vehicle’s speed is between approximately 7 miles-per-hour and the vehicle’s top speed.  If the driver notices the hazard and brakes, the system may provide additional braking force using Brake Assist*3. If the driver does not brake in a set time and the system determines that the possibility of a frontal collision with another vehicle is extremely high, the system may automatically apply the brakes, reducing speed in order to help the driver reduce the impact and in certain cases avoid the collision. For potential collisions with vehicles, the enhanced PCS system included with the TSS- P package operates at relative speeds of between 7 miles-per-hour and the vehicle’s top speed, reducing speed by approximately 25 mph*2.

Pedestrian Detection

In certain conditions, the PCS system with the TSS-P package may also help to detect pedestrians. The in-vehicle camera of PCS detects a potential pedestrian based on size, profile, and motion of the detected pedestrian. If PCS determines that the possibility of a frontal collision with a pedestrian is high under certain conditions, it prompts the driver to take evasive action and brake by using an audio and visual alert, followed by Brake Assist*3. These alerts operate when the vehicle’s speed is between approximately 7 and 50 miles-per-hour.  If the driver does not brake in a set time and the system determines that the risk of collision with a pedestrian is extremely high, the system may automatically apply the brakes, reducing speed in order to help the driver reduce the impact and in certain cases avoid the collision. The PCS included with the TSS-P package may operate automated brake for potential collisions with a pedestrian when vehicle speeds are between 7-50 mph, and may reduce vehicle speed by up to 19 mph*1.

• Dynamic Radar Cruise Control

On highways, TSS-P equipped vehicles include Dynamic Radar Cruise Control 5 functions similar to conventional “constant speed” cruise control in that its helps vehicles travel at a consistent speed set by the driver, but this system adds a vehicle-to-vehicle distance control mode which assists the driver by adjusting vehicle speed (within a set range) to help maintain a pre-set distance to a preceding vehicle when the preceding vehicle is traveling at a lower speed. By using a forward-facing camera and millimeter-wave radar to monitor a preceding vehicle merging into or out of the lane, Dynamic Radar Cruise Control helps maintain smooth acceleration and deceleration while driving.

• Lane Departure Alert (LDA) with Steering Assist function

In addition to the alert function of LDA found in TSS-C vehicles, TSS-P equipped vehicles with Electronic Power Steering assist (EPS) will feature a Steering Assist function. When equipped and enabled, if the system determines that the vehicle is on a path to unintentionally depart from its visibly marked lane, the system will provide small corrective steering inputs to the steering wheel for a short period of time to help the driver keep the vehicle in its lane.

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Toyota's Debut of 2017 Highlander Mid-Size SUV to Showcase Significant Performance Updates

• Newly Developed Direct Shift 8-Speed Automatic Transmission
• New 3.5-liter Direct Injection V6 Boosts Horsepower/Helps Increase MPG
• New Available Stop and Start (S&S) Engine System
• Standard Toyota Safety Sense
• New Sportier SE Gas Model; Hybrid Trim Expands to Four Grades
• Refreshed Exterior Styling

Toyota will be debuting the significantly enhanced 2017 model year Highlander mid-size sport utility vehicle (SUV) on Wednesday, March 23 at the upcoming New York International Auto Show.  The popular Highlander, receives an array of new and updated equipment and technology, inside and out, including a new Direct Shift 8-speed (8AT automatic transmission).

Highlander is a no-compromise mid-size three-row SUV that brings together the best in style, technology, comfort, capability, and safety. Its exterior design conveys both refinement and strength, which complements a refined interior that sets a high bar in its segment. The third- generation model, now entering its fourth year, offers room for up to eight, a choice of three powertrains and six model grades, including a new sporty SE model. The Highlander Hybrid adds two new grades, (LE and XLE) to its existing lineup of Limited and Platinum models for a total of four. All Highlander Hybrid models will continue to be all-wheel drive (AWD). The six Highlander gas models will continue to be (LE, LE Plus, XLE, SE, Limited and Limited Platinum) available in both front-wheel and AWD. It all adds up to the ideal family vehicle.

Greater Level of Performance
Performance will be enhanced in the 2017 Highlander gas models with the addition of the new Direct Shift 8AT (automatic transmission) that will be paired with a new 3.5-liter V6 Direct Injection Engine. The new transmission is more compact and will provide more transmission efficiency through its 8-speed gear range. The 8AT (Automatic Transmission) will be standard on all V6 Highlander gas models.

The new 3.5-liter Direct Injection V6 Engine will be available on all Highlander gas models and standard on all Hybrid grades. The new engine will generate significantly more horsepower, provide enhanced fuel efficiency, and deliver a more direct driving feel by expanding the lock up range.
 

In addition to Highlander, the new Direct Shift 8AT (automatic transmission) and 3.5-liter V6 Direct Injection Engine powertrain will be equipped in the 2017 model year Toyota Sienna van.

In an effort to help conserve fuel, Highlander V6 models (excluding LE) will come standard with a new Stop and Start Engine System (S&S). While driving the Highlander, the S&S allows the engine to shut off when the vehicle comes to a complete stop and restarts when the driver lifts their foot off of the brake pedal.

The standard powertrain on Highlander 4x2 LE gas models will remain the 2.7-liter 4- cylinder paired to a 6-speed automatic transmission. All Highlander Hybrid models will continue to receive the electronically-controlled continuously variable transmission (CVT).

Updated Luxury Look and Feel
The 2017 Highlander and Highlander Hybrid will receive tasteful styling enhancements that will continue to turn heads. The changes start with a new upper and lower front grille design for  all grades. Each grade will be distinguished by different grille finishes that will also carry into the headlamp housing. The grille on all LE, LE Plus and XLE grades will receive a silver painted finish, while Limited and Platinum grades will receive a painted chrome finish. From behind, the rear taillights will receive a sleeker redesign. A chrome trim garnish will also be added on the rear bumper of Limited and Platinum models.

Highlander will receive three new exterior colors, including Celestial Silver Metallic, Toasted Walnut Pearl, and, exclusively on the new SE, Salsa Red Pearl.

Interior updates include a new brown leather interior that will be available on the Limited Platinum grade. Charging personal devices will be more efficient as all Highlanders will add four USB ports for a total of five.

For those looking for a Highlander with all the bells and whistles but require added passenger seating, the premium Limited and Limited Platinum grades will offer buyers the choice of second-row captain’s chairs (providing seating for seven), or second-row bench seats that will expand capacity to eight people.

Sporty New SE Grade
For a touch of sportiness, Highlander will now be available in the new SE model. It starts on the outside with unique 19-inch aluminum alloy wheels, tuned suspension for a sportier ride, and a sporty dark paint treatment to the front grille, which is also incorporated into the headlamp housings and roof rails.
 

Inside, the SE will stand apart from all other Highlander models with unique black leather- trimmed seats with silver stitching and pattern seat inserts, a black front tray, and matching dash and door inserts.

Toyota Safety That Makes Sense
The 2017 Highlander will come standard with Toyota Safety Sense P (TSS), a new multi- feature advanced safety package anchored by automated pre-collision braking. TSS bundles cutting edge safety technologies including Pre-Collision System (with Forward Collision Warning and automatic emergency brake), Lane Departure Alert, Automatic High Beams, Pedestrian Pre- Collision System and Dynamic Radar Cruise Control.

The Pedestrian Pre-collision System (PCS) uses a camera and radar to detect objects ahead of the vehicle. When the system determines there is a possibility of collision it prompts the driver to brake with an audio and visual alert. If the driver notices the hazard and brakes, the system provides additional braking force. If the driver fails to brake in a set time, the system automatically applies the brakes, reducing speed in order to prevent or mitigate the collision.

Lane Departure Alert (LDA) uses a camera to detect visible lane markings. If the system determines that the vehicle is starting to deviate from the lane, LDA alerts the driver and will provide steering assist to help get the vehicle back into its lane.

Automatic High Beam (AHB) helps enhance forward visibility during nighttime driving. It uses a camera to detect the headlights of oncoming vehicles and the tail lights of vehicles ahead, and then automatically switches between high beams and low beams so as not to dazzle other drivers.

The Highlander XLE grade will also adopt blind spot monitor as standard equipment.

 
To help make parking easy and safe, the 2017 Highlander Limited Platinum grade will come standard with a Bird’s Eye View Camera with Perimeter Scan. This Toyota technology employs four cameras that are mounted on the front, the side mirrors and rear of the vehicle to project a panoramic view of the vehicle’s surroundings on the central touch display monitor. The system offers drivers assistance when parallel parking, and when pulling in and out of parking spaces. The Bird’s Eye View Monitor system also debuts a Toyota-first feature called Perimeter Scan, which provides a live rotating 360-degree view around the vehicle, helping the driver to see potential obstacles.

Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Indiana (TMMI) in Princeton, Ind., which employs 5,300 American workers, assembles all Highlanders and exports them to 12 countries.

The 2017 Highlander and Highlander Hybrid will begin arriving at Toyota showrooms in the fall of 2016.

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Toyota Puts the Vroom in Safety Education Program Aimed at Putting Kids in the Driver's Seat

Driving habits, good or bad, begin to form long before a driver can reach the gas pedal and as early as when a child’s car seat is turned to face front. So, to learn what it means to be a safe driver, passenger and pedestrian, Kentucky tots are taking the wheel. 

Safety City, a free, safety education program for second and third graders, combines classroom instruction with student driving experiences that simulate the real world. Toyota is helping power the program with a $49,000 donation toward the purchase of ten kid-sized electric cars. The new cars will replace an aging fleet that dates back to Safety City’s inception in 1990.  

“Early education is critical,” said Lisa Conley, Safety City’s executive director. “The purchase of these cars allows us to continue to give young students a meaningful, hands-on experience to help them develop a foundation of safe habits that will be so important in the future.”

Safety City is a partnership between Eastern Kentucky University and the Lexington Police Department, serving more than 2,000 local students each school year. By offering classes on topics like Traffic and Pedestrian Safety and Seatbelt Use, students who complete the program are equipped with knowledge to help them be safer in their community, today and tomorrow.

“Two of EKU’s signature programs are public safety and education, making Safety City a natural partnership for the University,” said Dr. Michael Benson, president, Eastern Kentucky University. “We are honored to have a role in educating the police officers who patrol our streets, and we also take great pride in joining the effort to teach future drivers the rules of the road.”  

For Toyota, supporting Safety City is second nature. “We believe everyone deserves to be safe, and we want to be a part of helping keep people safe, on and off the road,” said Wil James, president of Toyota’s Kentucky plant.  “That’s a priority for us, and it’s why we’re investing in programs like Safety City.”

"So many children have grown up with fond memories of Safety City. The program helps build a positive connection between the community, officers, and the work we do as an agency," said Chief Mark Barnard, Lexington Police. "Toyota's investment in Safety City will go a long way in creating lasting experiences that will stick with students for years to come."

“There’s nothing more important than keeping our children safe,” said Mayor Jim Gray, Lexington. “Safety City makes learning about traffic safety fun. We thank Toyota Motor Manufacturing Kentucky, Eastern Kentucky University and Lexington Police for making it possible.”

Safety City is open 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday-Friday, by appointment only, and is located at 1160 Red Mile Place in Lexington, KY. To schedule a trip, visit http://safetycity.eku.edu/scheduling-your-visit.

Toyota’s investment in Safety City reflects a broader commitment to advancing automotive safety in Kentucky and across North America.  By supporting programs like Alive at 25, a partnership with Kentucky State Police and the National Safety Council, developing comprehensive initiatives like Toyota TeenDrive365 (www.TeenDrive365.com) to inspire parents and teens to be safe drivers together, and working to develop and share life-saving technologies through Toyota’s Collaborative Safety Research Center in Ann Arbor, Mich., Toyota is working across the map to benefit everyone on the road. 

For more information on Toyota’s safety initiatives, visit http://www.toyota.com/usa/safety.

Wearable Mobility Device for the Blind and Visually Impaired Being Developed by Toyota

You might think Toyota is just about developing and manufacturing some of the best vehicles in the world, but Toyota is about so much more. Here is an example of how Toyota develops technology designed to advance mobility and improve quality of life. Here at Burien Toyota, we're proud to be part of such a company.

Mobility is empowering. That’s why Toyota is working to develop a wearable device for the blind and visually impaired that will help them do more with greater freedom, independence and confidence. Called Project BLAID, it reflects the company’s commitment to enrich lives by advancing the freedom of mobility for all.
 
The device will help fill the gaps left by canes, dogs and basic GPS devices by providing users with more information about their surroundings. Worn around their shoulders, it will help users better navigate indoor spaces, such as office buildings and shopping malls, by helping them identify everyday features, including restrooms, escalators, stairs and doors.
 
The device will be equipped with cameras that detect the user’s surroundings and communicate information to him or her through speakers and vibration motors. Users, in turn, will be able to interact with the device through voice recognition and buttons. Toyota plans to eventually integrate mapping, object identification and facial recognition technologies. 
 
“Project BLAID is one example of how Toyota is leading the way to the future of mobility, when getting around will be about more than just cars,” said Simon Nagata, Executive Vice President and Chief Administrative Officer, Toyota Motor North America. “We want to extend the freedom of mobility for all, no matter their circumstance, location or ability.”      
 
“Toyota is more than just the great cars and trucks we build; we believe we have a role to play in addressing mobility challenges, including helping people with limited mobility do more,” said Doug Moore, Manager, Partner Robotics, Toyota. “We believe this project has the potential to enrich the lives of people who are blind and visually impaired.”
 
As part of Project BLAID, Toyota is launching an employee engagement campaign that invites team members company-wide to submit videos of common indoor landmarks. These videos will subsequently be used by Project BLAID developers to “teach” the device to better recognize these landmarks.
 
For a preview, visit TheToyotaEffect.com to access a short video, equipped with audio descriptions, which showcases a young man, who is blind, testing an early-stage version of the device.
 
The Toyota Effect is an ongoing campaign that highlights how Toyota collaborates with other companies, non-profit organizations and others to have a positive impact on people, society and the environment. Previous videos have highlighted how Toyota shares its manufacturing expertise to help nonprofits and small businesses have a greater impact, as well as a unique partnership with Yellowstone National Park to provide zero emissions power to a remote ranger center using old hybrid car batteries.