5 Tips for Driving Safely in the Rain

 Here in Western Washington, we're used to the rain. We have to learn to play, work, and drive in the rain because life can't stop when we get some (more) of that liquid sunshine. But it's important not to become complacent while driving in the rain and to remember a few important key tips to keep you driving safely on your way.

Here are 5 things you can do to driver more safely in our rainiest seasons:

Prepare Your Vehicle

Make sure your windshield wipers work or replace them if needed. Make sure you are able to defrost your vehicle so you can see clearly out all the windows. Replace any head or tail lights as necessary and keep plenty of gasoline in your tank. If you aren't 100% confident in your vehicle, give us a call to make an appointment with our service department!

Don't Drive Through Standing Water

You see the signs and hear the warnings: don't drown, turn around. Already this rainy season we have been hit with a couple serious rain storms that have left many roads underwater. Do NOT try to drive through water on the road or go around signs blocking roads. It isn't worth the risk to your life or your vehicle. It seems that no matter how many times we read/hear the warnings, there are always people who ignore them and require rescuing by first responders.

Slow Down

If you've been driving for any length of time, you know the terror that comes from hydroplaning, which occurs when your car is driving a high rate of speed and goes on top of standing road water...and results in you losing control of your vehicle. Sometimes it is difficult to see where there might be standing water on the road, so it's a good idea to slow down no matter what. Driving slower also makes it so your vehicle can slow down without sliding/skidding on the wet road, which has less traction.

Don't Use Cruise Control

It's tempting to use your vehicle's cruise control option whenever you can, but it is important NOT to use it when driving in the rain. Why? The cruise control will keep your wheels turning at the same speed no matter what is happening...even if you hit standing water. Instinctually, we can feel when our vehicle goes over standing water and, hopefully, can slow down quickly enough that the vehicle stops hydroplaning and we regain control. Or if we feel the water is suddenly slippery, we can instantly slow down by taking our foot off the gas a little. When we use cruise control, it is always full-steam ahead.

Use Headlights

Even in the middle of the day, using your headlights makes your vehicle easier to see in the rain. Those dark rain clouds and reflections off the rain/wet road can make it difficult for you to see...and for people to see you! Help prevent someone from turning out in front of you at the last minute or stepping off the curb in front of you by turning on your headlights any time it starts raining.

Holiday Drink Recipe: The Christmas Margarita

Almost everyone loves Christmas...and almost everyone loves a margarita, but people don't usually think of margaritas as a Christmas drink. The cooks at A Couple of Cooks have solved this problem with their recipe for the Christmas Margarita drink!

You don't have to wait until sunnier weather or that tropical vacation to enjoy a margarita and we're pretty sure any party guests will appreciate an excuse to have a margarita during the holiday season. Because it's a Christmas Margarita!

This what you need to make your own Christmas Margaritas for a gathering or just for yourself while you watch Hallmark movies:

• 100% cranberry juice
• Tequila (use blanco or reposado)
• Cointreau
• Fresh lime juice
• Simple syrup or maple syrup

Get detailed directions on their website and check out some more of their holiday recipe ideas!

Zero Emissions in Style: 2022 Toyota Mirai Pricing Announced

 

• Striking, Elegant Sedan Built on Premium RWD Platform

• Up to EPA Estimated 402 Miles of Range on XLE grade

• Up to $15,000 of Hydrogen Fuel Included with Mirai Purchase or Lease

With an advanced powertrain, striking coupe-like design and a luxury interior that’s loaded with technology, the 2022 Toyota Mirai brings the future to drivers today. Recognized by Ward’s Automotive as a 10 Best Engine and Propulsion Systems winner for 2021, and starting at $49,500*, the 2022 Mirai is Toyota’s premium zero emission, rear-wheel drive fuel-cell electric vehicle (FCEV). Expected to arrive at Toyota dealerships this December, the 2022 Mirai brings drivers luxury car design and performance, while emitting nothing but water.

Mirai means "future" in Japanese, which is the perfect name for a car that fits into a strategy that also includes Toyota’s current and future hybrids and upcoming battery electric vehicles (BEVs), like the recently announced bZ4X. This second-generation Mirai brings a stunning design that doesn’t quit, more engaging driving performance and an increased zero emission range of 402 EPA-estimated miles range on the Mirai XLE (previous EPA rating of 312 miles), a nearly 30% increase over the first-generation model.

The Mirai is built on the rear-wheel drive GA-L platform, creating a mid-size luxury-sport sedan with a bold stance accentuated by standard 19-inch alloy wheels. The second-generation Mirai’s more powerful fuel cell system provides a more engaging driving experience than its pioneering predecessor. The RWD configuration also allows for increased hydrogen storage compared to the first-gen, front-wheel drive Mirai.

Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+ is standard on the 2022 Mirai to help avoid collisions or mitigate their impact with emergency automatic braking. The system includes:

• Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection (PCS w/PD) with intersection support and emergency steering assist
• Full-Speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC)
• Lane Departure Alert
• Lane Tracing Assist (LTA)
• Automatic High Beams
• Road Sign Assist (RSA)

In addition to TSS 2.5+, Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross Traffic Alert is standard on the 2022 Mirai.

FCEV: Making Electricity from Hydrogen

An FCEV is a “plug-less” electric vehicle. There’s no need to charge a big battery. Instead, the FCEV driver simply fills the tank with hydrogen, which only takes about 5 minutes.

With an FCEV, the fuel is non-toxic, compressed hydrogen gas rather than liquid gasoline. As it did with the first-generation Mirai, Toyota will include up to $15,000 of complimentary hydrogen with a purchase or lease.

An FCEV generates its own electricity onboard from hydrogen, with water as the only emission. A fuel cell system combines stored hydrogen with oxygen from the air, and a chemical reaction that produces electric current, and water, which drops out of a hidden vent pipe beneath the car.

Electricity generated by the Mirai’s fuel cell and the regenerative braking system is stored in a lithium-ion battery. Pressing the accelerator pedal yields immediate flow of electric power from the fuel cell and/or battery to the rear-mounted AC synchronous electric motor, which drives the rear wheels.

Electric “Supercharger”

An electric air compressor pressurizes the intake air, and a water-cooled intercooler reduces the temperature of the compressed air before it enters the FC stack. A water-cooled oil cooler integrated with the air compressor helps maximize efficiency.

The intake system is designed to mitigate noise, which is virtually unnoticeable to occupants. By necessity, the intake air for the fuel cell must be purified. And so, an electrostatic air cleaner element captures ultra-fine particles (Particulate Matter 2.5), and a charcoal filter removes chemical substances.

Electrifying Design, Slippery Aero

The second-gen Mirai design conveys a sense of motion with a long-hood, sweeping roofline and short rear deck rendered in a practical four-door sedan package. The overall effect is that of a single metal form sculpted into a bold shape. The five exterior colors offered help the Mirai make a dramatic statement: Black, Oxygen White, Supersonic Red, Hydro Blue and Heavy Metal.

Wheelbase, height, length and width were all increased over the first-generation, front-wheel drive Mirai. Weight increased by just 176 lbs., yet weight distribution improved to near 50:50, and the center of gravity is lower to significantly enhance handling agility.

Sleek Details

The second-gen Mirai introduced a new lighting signature for a Toyota sedan, with long, narrow headlights that sweep rearward into the fenders. Available in XLE and Limited, all Mirai models are equipped with auto-leveling bi-beam LED headlights, multi-LED front and rear turn signal indicators, Daytime Running Lights (DRL) and clearance lights. The LED side marker lamps are etched with the Mirai logo.

A thin LED taillight panel spans the car’s width, tapered in the center, and creates a unique nighttime signature with three distinct gradation lines. Color-keyed heated power-folding outside mirrors feature turn signal indicators, defrosters, blind spot warning and puddle lights.

The Mirai’s 0.29 coefficient of drag is the result not only of the body’s shape, but a slew of bumper-to-bumper aero details, such as windshield wipers that retract to a lower position when not in use. The wipers show the kind of detail Toyota infused to raise comfort and convenience to a higher level in the Mirai: They feature direct-spray washer fluid arms, and, when in use, operate more quietly thanks to slower speed at the reversing point.

Comfort and Tech: Above and Beyond

Exacting craftsmanship and high tech give the Mirai comfort that’s above the ordinary. The headliner, for example, integrates an infrared reflective layer on the roof-facing surface to block that part of the light spectrum, helping reduce heat buildup inside the cabin. That also reduces electrical load on the air conditioning system. A layer of Thinsulate™ within the headliner also helps to block heat as well as provide additional sound damping. The side windows are UV-protected and water-repellent.

The Mirai XLE grade features SoftTex- trimmed and heated, power-adjustable front seats (8-way for driver, 4-way for passenger). The Limited steps up to perforated SoftTex-trimmed heated and ventilated front and rear seats, including an 8-way power front passenger seat.

The Limited interior is available in dramatic two-tone color schemes: white and brown or black. LED ambient lighting includes eight driver-selectable colors and blue footwell illumination. The Limited grade’s standard digital rear-view mirror with a HomeLink® transmitter in the Limited can be switched from conventional to digital modes. The latter relays an expansive camera view from behind the vehicle and can also brighten the nighttime image.

For rear seat passengers in the Limited, digital touch switches on the rear of the center console operate the audio and climate controls and the available panorama roof’s power sunshade. The Limited features available manual sunshades for the side windows and a power shade for the rear window.

Dual Digital Displays

Both Mirai grades employ an 8-inch color TFT LCD digital gauge cluster and a 12.3-inch touchscreen multimedia display. Within the 8-inch gauge cluster, a 4.2-in. multi-information display includes an ECO drive indicator that helps the driver to maximize fuel efficiency by providing acceleration guidance and assigning a score on economical driving. Hydrogen fuel level and remaining range are always shown.

The 12.3-inch display provides easy access for the driver or front passenger, and the multimedia, climate control and navigation content can be toggled from left and right. Both model grades come standard with a Dynamic Navigation three-year trial and Premium Audio playing through 14 JBL® speakers, including subwoofer. The system features the latest in-demand connectivity tech, including Bluetooth® wireless technology, Android Auto™, Apple CarPlay®, Amazon Alexa compatibility and SiriusXM® with 3-month All Access trial.

The 12.3-inch display also relays imagery from the Bird’s Eye View Camera with Perimeter Scan, Overhead 360-Degree View in drive and reverse and Curb View (standard on Limited and available for XLE).

Luxury Car Chassis

The high-strength GA-L platform with sophisticated multilink suspension provides the foundation for superb handling agility and an exceptionally smooth, quiet ride. Laser screw welding and adhesive structure bonding, proven on many other Toyota and Lexus models, are among the construction techniques used to give the Mirai a truly premium feel on the road.

Active Cornering Assist engages the stability control to reduce understeer in certain cornering situations. Hill Start Assist Control, standard for both grades, allows smooth, safe takeoffs from stops on hills.

Electric power steering delivers quick response, with a tight 38.6-ft. turning circle for easy maneuverability. Both the XLE and Limited grades are equipped with 19 x 8-inch alloy wheels and 235/55R19 all-season tires. The Limited offers optional 20 x 8.5-inch turbine-style Super Chrome alloy wheels with 245/45ZR20 tires.

Two-Grade Model Strategy

The Mirai XLE comes well equipped with standard SofTex-trimmed seating featuring heated, 8-way power driver and 4-way power passenger seats, dual-zone automatic climate control with remote feature, Smart Key System remote keyless entry system with trunk-release, panic button and remote illuminated entry, auto-leveling LED headlamps, LED front interior reading lights, Toyota Premium Multimedia system with navigation and 14 JBL speakers, Qi wireless charger, power tilt/telescoping steering wheel, auto-dimming rearview mirror and electronic parking brake.

Connected Services include Safety Connect® with 1-year trial, Service Connect with 10-year trial, Remote Connect with 1-year trial, Wi-Fi Connect with up to 2 GB within 3-month trial and Destination Assist with 1-year trial. (See toyota.com/connected-services and toyota.com/audio-multimedia for details.)

As an option, the XLE offers the Advanced Technology Package that includes Bird’s Eye View Camera, Front and Rear Parking Assist with Automated Braking and Front Seat Foot Illumination.

The Mirai Limited grade makes those features standard, along with ventilated front seats, heated rear seating, three-zone automatic climate control (two-zone in front, one-zone in rear with separate digital control panel), ambient lighting and a panorama roof, which features fixed glass panels and a power sunshade.

Fuel Cells: Back to the Future

Fuel cell technology pre-dates the automobile by half a century. In 1838, a Welsh physicist combined hydrogen and oxygen in the presence of an electrolyte and produced an electric current, though not enough to be useful. By the 1960s, the technology was being used in America’s Gemini and Apollo spacecraft, where it provided crews with both electricity and water from stored hydrogen and oxygen.

Fuel cells had been studied for the automotive sector, but the technology only recently became practical and cost-effective. Toyota began its fuel cell development around the same time as its original Prius nearly 25 years ago, and the Mirai shares technology from the company’s hybrid program.

Toyota developed the solid-polymer electrolyte fuel cells used in the first- and second-generation Mirai models. To help foster FCEV proliferation, the company has released over 5,000 of its patents, royalty-free.

It is a scalable technology that can be made small enough to power a phone or large enough to power a building, or anything in between. For example, Toyota installed fuel cell powertrains in a fleet of class-8 semi-trucks that are rated for a maximum 80,000-pound load. These big rigs have been used for moving freight in and around the Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach, California.

Hydrogen can be produced from a variety of domestic resources. The goal of the Hydrogen Council, for which Toyota is a founding member, is to use decarbonized hydrogen for transportation such as that produced from bio-resources or renewable electricity via electrolysis by 2030.

Mirai Pricing*

The 2022 XLE grade has a starting MSRP of $49,500. An Advanced Technology Package, which includes Bird’s Eye View camera, front and rear Parking Assist with Automated Braking and front seat foot illumination, can be added for $1,410.

The Limited grade has a starting MSRP of $66,000, with optional 20-inch Super Chrome Alloy wheels available for an additional $1,120.

Both the XLE and Limited grades have a Special Color price of $425 for Oxygen White, Heavy Metal, Supersonic Red and, exclusive to the Limited, Hydro Blue.

Each Mirai comes with up to $15,000 of complimentary hydrogen.

An extended ToyotaCare maintenance plan, good for three years or 35,000 miles, is included with the vehicle. Other owner benefits include roadside assistance for three years (unlimited miles), an eight-year/100,000-mile FCEV warranty on key fuel cell electric vehicle components, a complimentary rental experience for up to 21 days during the first three years of ownership and much more.

* MSRP excludes Toyota Dealer Processing and Handling (DPH) Fee of $1,025 (DPH subject to change).

Toyota Motor Credit Corporation to Provide Consumer Financing Solutions for Great American Outdoors Group

Toyota Motor Credit Corporation (TMCC) announced the entry into a letter of intent with Great American Outdoors LLC, the parent company of Bass Pro Shops, Cabela’s and the White River Marine Group—makers of such legendary boat brands as Tracker, Ranger, Mako, Hatteras and others. This agreement will expand Toyota’s relationship with Bass Pro Shops and Cabela’s to include offering financial services for the company’s boats, all-terrain vehicle products and other mobility products. Starting in May 2022, Bass Pro Shops Financial Services expects to provide inventory financing for Bass Pro Shops and Cabela’s, its affiliates and authorized independent dealers. Over time, the services are expected to expand to include consumer financing and voluntary protection products and services.

“With this agreement, our commitment to improving the customer experience now extends to every aspect of boat and vehicle ownership,” says Johnny Morris, founder and leader of the Great American Outdoors Group. “Our new agreement with Toyota gives our customers and industry leading independent dealer network access to the world’s best financing options, backed by decades of integrity and service. What excites us the most, however, is further aligning with Toyota, a truly world class company with truly world class, genuine people.”

“We couldn’t be happier to grow our business with Bass Pro Shops and Cabela’s, recognized as North America’s premier outdoor and conservation company,” said Mark Templin, president of TMCC. “We’ve developed a comprehensive suite of proprietary financial services products, exceptional customer service capabilities and best-in-class solutions that are attractive to brands who recognize the need to harness technology and a customer-first mindset in support of growing their brand loyalty, retention and profitability.”

A Longstanding Partnership

In 2020, Toyota and Bass Pro Shops and Cabela’s announced the renewal of their longstanding partnership for an additional five years, which will lead the brands into 20 years of collaboration together. Toyota is the Official Vehicle and Mobility Category Partner of Bass Pro Shops and Cabela’s, and is proud to partner with a brand that aligns with Toyota’s brand ethos, “Let’s Go Places.”  In similar style, at Bass Pro Shops and Cabela’s, “Your Adventure Starts Here” helps customers connect with the outdoors through the gear, apparel and expertise they need.  Visit the Toyota Newsroom for more information on the Toyota-Bass Pro Shops and Cabela’s history including the new private label relationship.

Revealed: The All-New, All-Electric Toyota bZ4X

 

• bZ4X arrives at U.S. dealers in mid-2022
• Manufacturer-estimated range of up to 250 miles per charge for XLE FWD
• New AWD system packaged in a sleek SUV design
• Spacious, techy interior with abundant legroom
• Furthering Toyota’s global commitment toward carbon neutrality

Toyota’s all-electric bZ4X made its U.S. production model debut today. As a leader in electrification, Toyota’s introduction of bZ4X represents the first of a global series of battery-electric vehicles to be introduced under the global “Toyota bZ” brand umbrella. Once the rubber hits the road, bZ4X will have a manufacturer-estimated range of up to 250 miles for XLE front-wheel drive models.

“With zero emissions and an exhilarating drive, the bZ4X is hitting the market at just the right time as we expand our already comprehensive electrified product lineup,” said Mike Tripp, vice president, Toyota Marketing. “As a human-centered company, Toyota remains committed to offering customers a diverse portfolio of products to meet their individual needs and move us toward a carbon neutral future.”

bZ4X joins an extensive lineup of Toyota electrified vehicles that, in total, accounts for more than 24% of Toyota’s total U.S. sales volume. These include hydrogen fuel cell electrics, hybrids, plug-in hybrids and battery electric vehicles. Toyota envisions a future in which carbon neutrality is achieved through the practical marketization of a portfolio of products with advanced, alternative-fuel and zero-emission powertrain technologies.

Toyota plans to expand to around 70 electrified models globally by 2025. This future lineup will feature 15 dedicated BEVs, including seven carrying the bZ (Beyond Zero) brand moniker. This diverse portfolio of electrified products will help propel Toyota toward its goal of carbon neutrality by 2050.

Hi-Tech and Emotional, Both Inside & Out

Based on the design theme “hi-tech and emotional,” the all-new, all-electric SUV offers styling that is as bold and modern as the vehicle itself. The front view of the bZ4X has an aero-dynamic design, and the curved shape of the front bumper expresses a certain uniqueness from other vehicles. The large hammerhead shark-like shape that runs from the hood to the top of the headlamps gives bZ4X a sleek silhouette. The rear design exudes a powerful stance, thanks to the combination lamps, rear hatch and bumper’s trapezoidal theme that extends all the way to the tires.

The futuristic, edgy styling extends to the interior with premium finishes resulting in a distinctive look. With every detail purposefully engineered to create a sense of connection, it offers a driver-centric design that makes you feel like you’re one with the car. The unique instrument panel and precision-placed MID screen expands the vehicle’s feeling of space, while also helping to keep driver’s sight lines up and on the road. Soundproofing glass and wind-noise reduction features create a quiet refuge from the world outside.

With the roominess one would expect from an SUV, the bZ4X interior offers a spacious and relaxing seat for passengers. The accessible USB ports (A and C) offer power and connection points in convenient locations. The panoramic roof provides a feeling of openness and brings the outside environment into the vehicle. Passengers will feel pampered, with abundant legroom for front and rear seats as well as copious side-to-side space in the rear.

Intuitive, Focused Driving with Off-Road Performance

The bZ4X offers the off-road performance you’d expect from a capable SUV, coupled with the smooth and fun driving performance inherent in an all-electric vehicle.

Built on the BEV-dedicated e-TNGA platform, a first for Toyota, the bZ4X achieves impressive driving performance thanks to the high-capacity Lithium-Ion battery pack placed flat under the floor, which gives it a low center of gravity. Impressive handling is due in part to the battery cross-framing structure, which adds to overall vehicle rigidity. The adoption of a lightweight body structure partially made of high tensile steel, as well as the enhancement of frame components around the battery pack and the forward and rear suspension also contributes to the agile responsiveness of bZ4X. In addition, a redesigned accelerator pedal creates a smoother feel when accelerating and decelerating coupled with an intelligent throttle with slip suppression to provide impressive control on slippery roads. And, when you combine that with a new AWD system with X-MODE®, an available standout feature for bZ4X and a Toyota first, you get an exhilarating, yet comfortable, driving experience suited for everything from daily driving to light off-roading. Another impressive feature of the AWD system is Grip-Control, which leverages motor drive characteristics to achieve capable off-road performance – exceeding expectations at every turn.

The engineering team also focused on features that maximize energy-saving and cruising range for year-round driving (particularly in winter settings). In addition to aerodynamic design choices and body weight reduction efforts, the following systems and equipment were adopted to reduce energy consumption, especially power used for heating in cold climates:

• Heat pump system for both heating and air-conditioning
• Seat and steering wheel heaters
• Front-seat radiant foot-and-leg heater (first for Toyota)

Performance + Peace of Mind

Determined to offer performance that also focuses on safety and peace of mind, Toyota aimed to develop a BEV that offers many years of satisfied ownership. This includes the consideration of overall driving range, particularly in cold climates, and targeting a battery capacity retention of 90% after 10 years of ownership.

In terms of battery safety, Toyota added many measures to help ensure cell integrity was protected. A non-conductive coolant runs through separated flow channels to maintain optimal battery temperature. The battery pack housing is designed to withstand a collision from any angle due to its frame and cross-bracing design.

bZ4X will be the first to feature the latest Toyota Safety SenseTM safety package (TSS 3.0). This system has been improved by expanding the detection range of the millimeter wave radar and monocular camera. Toyota has enhanced the performance of each function and added new functions to assist in normal driving conditions. For example, the Pre-collision system has been improved to offer Low-Light Cyclist Detection, Daytime Motorcyclist Detection and Guardrail Detection. Also, lane recognition is enhanced to add improved functionality while in Lane Tracing Assist mode.

The goal of TSS is to help prevent accidents, further reduce traffic fatalities and injuries and ease the burden on drivers.

Intuitive Tech

The bZ4X is loaded with intuitive tech features. Owners will enjoy a user interface that offers interaction through sight, touch and voice. With a Drive Connect trial or subscription, the bZ4X offers navigation that uses map information from the cloud to obtain traffic information and parking space availability in real time. Digital key gives owners the ability to lock, unlock and start the vehicle with a tap of a smartphone. Designed to make life more convenient, digital keys can also be handed over between smartphones, making it easy for family and friends to borrow and lend vehicles remotely. Other features of the trial subscription include BEV specialized services such as charging station info, driving support info and vehicle driving range.

Other notable features include:

• Over-the-air (OTA = wireless) software updates: Software updates to improve performance are also possible for Toyota Safety Sense and the multimedia system without needing to visit a dealership
• Compatible with high-output chargers worldwide (capable of 80% charge within one hour)

Safety for the Environment

By strengthening measures to help prevent and detect signs of battery failure, and introducing new technologies, the bZ4X adopted a design and a multiple monitoring system that is intended to provide safety and security of the vehicle’s battery system.

This includes:

• A meticulous production process that helps eliminate contamination of battery components and ensures battery durability
• Redundant monitoring of battery voltage, current and temperature designed to detect signs and occurrence of abnormal heating to help prevent overheating
• Utilization of a high-resistance coolant circulation system, which can help prevent fire from short circuits even if there is leakage of the battery’s liquid coolant
• Integration of the high-capacity battery pack within the floor of the body frame structure designed to protect in the event of a collision

The bZ4X will go on sale in mid-2022. To stay up to date on bZ4X, visit the bZ4X upcoming vehicle page here: www.toyota.com/upcoming-vehicles/bZ4X.

Main Specifications (Preliminary US Spec.)

Redefining a New Era: A Look Back at the Toyota RAV4’s Last 25 Years

 When the RAV4 made its debut 25 years ago, it helped redefine a new era.

The RAV4 was unveiled as a concept car at the 1989 Tokyo Motor Show, and when it arrived in the United States as a production model in 1996, the small crossover set off on a journey to become one of the most influential vehicles in modern history. As not only one of the segment leaders, but also a segment disrupter, the RAV4 continues to embody what a crossover was designed for — providing drivers with the perfect blend of space and efficiency.

In the past two and a half decades, the RAV4 has helped create a whole new category of vehicles, and it’s also become one of Toyota’s top sellers. To celebrate 25 years, we sat down with Amy Chao, senior marketing planner at Toyota Motor North America, to share the history of the compact SUV and what makes the RAV4 so special.

Amy Chao, senior marketing planner, TMNA

When the RAV4 debuted in the United States in 1996, what was going on in the market? What made it so revolutionary?

Chao: The RAV4 was born in an era dominated by body-on-frame SUVs, which at that time, were very utilitarian and leaned heavily on truck-based roots. They were road rough, got poor fuel economy, and were not mainstream products. That means that a unibody SUV like the RAV4 was a crazy idea at the time. The idea of a vehicle that combined the refined driving characteristics of a car, the cargo capacity of a wagon, and the high seating position and ground clearance of an SUV was certainly revolutionary.

Consumers defined “SUV” with vehicles like the 4Runner, the Ford Explorer or the Jeep Grand Cherokee. It was different for us to come to the market with this product that was significantly lighter, smaller, and what was at the time considered a quirky body style. People didn’t really know what to think of it.

The RAV4 was a game changer for the SUV market. When did people realize it was going to be such an industry disrupter?

When it was released in the U.S. in 1996, the RAV4 was released with options, like a two- or four-door version, a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic, and front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. That made it very different from the current offerings — and so it was met with some skepticism. Not only did people not really know what to think, but they also didn’t know how big of a market shift it was about to create.

Then in 1997 it was named Automobile of the Year by Automobile Magazine. That’s really when consumers and other auto manufactures started to take notice and realize that there was about to be a shift to what we now call the small SUV market. By 2017, the RAV4 outsold Camry for the first time ever and became number one volume vehicle for Toyota — something the Camry held forever. In 2019, RAV4 achieved the highest sales of any SUV in a given calendar year.

What are some of the features that allowed the RAV4 to continue to be so popular?

I think there’s a lot of reasons that we’ve shown some really strong sales over the last 25 years. Customers love that they can get a higher seating position, the all-weather capability of an SUV, but at the same time, not feel like they’re driving something too big. The fuel economy is much closer to a sedan than a traditional SUV, so it allows for lower operating costs. And the interior packaging is really efficient — it’s a great blend of the interior size and the exterior footprint.

It’s designed to tackle everything from driving around the city, or in the suburbs, or actually taking on something outdoors. For example, in the current environment we’re in, we’re seeing a lot more people that want to go out and explore and take their vehicles off-road. I think it’s that blend that really appeals to everybody.

The RAV4 is obviously not the same vehicle today as it was 25 years ago. How has it evolved over the years?

It’s been a delicate balance over the last 25 years, trying to figure out the perfect vehicle size, engine performance, fuel economy, styling, all-weather capability and cargo capacity. We’ve definitely experimented over the years. We quickly learned that a two-door SUV with manual transmission was not going to be a hit. At one point, we introduced a third row but determined people prefer extra cargo room instead.

In terms of successes, we’ve had continued innovation with powertrains over the years. The RAV4 pushed the envelope when we debuted the hybrid powertrain in 2016 and continues to have success in the segment with the introduction of the RAV4 Prime in 2020. As consumers continue to change, we continue to evaluate what works and experiment a little. We’ve had some bumps along the road, but I think we’re getting it right.

Tell us about the hybrid options. Toyota has been working on the hybrid for a while. What’s different about it now?

Today, there’s still a lot of change in the industry. There’s often a misunderstanding about what hybrids and plug-in hybrids actually are. It was really important for us to get it right because, as you know, hybrid plays a huge part in our lineup. In the current market, customers have the choice of gas, hybrid or the plug-in hybrid powertrain, so they have the power to choose what works for their lifestyle. One size doesn’t necessarily fit all so we need to find the right fit for every customer.

Now we’re providing this vehicle that is fun to drive, provides great gas mileage and is at the right price point. We think that we’ve accomplished that, and I think the proof of that is now the RAV4 has become the number-one-selling hybrid in the U.S.

What’s next for the future of crossovers? Where do you see the future of the RAV4?

As a segment, the growth shows no signs of slowing down and new competitors continue to join the market. Typical to Toyota, I think we will continue to evolve and move the needle as a leader in the industry. I think crossovers in general will become greener, will have higher tech, and more features. We know that there’s a lot of great things coming down the line for the RAV4. We’re going to continue to innovate and push the boundaries in the segment so we can continue to be the best-selling vehicle in its class.

Visit Burien Toyota Managers at Seattle Auto Show Career Fair!

Burien Toyota will be looking for its next team members and future team members at the 2021 Bright Future Career Fair at the  November 13-14 at Lumen Field!

Stop by the Toyota of Burien booth at the Career Fair any time during the weekend to meet some of our managers to talk about possibilities for your future. We are CURRENTLY looking to hire for several different level technicians, lube technicians, and a Service Advisor.

Sponsored by the Washington State Auto Dealers Association and the Seattle International Auto Show, the Bright Futures Career Fair will host 20 dealerships from across Western Washington, provide scholarship information, access to the College Planning Network to discuss training opportunities, and potential career opportunities.

The Bright Futures Auto Show is open to high school and college students. All attendees will get information from each dealership and get free access to the Seattle International Auto Show floor! Stop by to see what your future career could look like!