Toyota Crown Takes Center Stage at New York Fashion Week

 

New York Fashion Week, the pinnacle of style and sophistication, welcomed an exciting collaboration this year as Toyota partnered with acclaimed designer Christian Siriano for a dazzling showcase. Known for his boundary-pushing creativity and refined elegance, Siriano brought his signature flair to a runway experience that celebrated the intersection of fashion, luxury, and innovation.

Christian Siriano, a trailblazing member of the Council of Fashion Designers of America, has a reputation for turning heads and breaking molds. His collaboration with Toyota began in 2023 with a partnership that included custom content for Vogue and a one-of-a-kind Met Gala dress inspired by the Toyota Prius. This year, the partnership seamlessly aligns with the bold vision of the Toyota Crown Family, delivering an experience that captivates the senses and elevates the everyday.

“I was really inspired by the idea of futurism and modern technology – namely the movement, lines and craftmanship shared between fashion and auto design,” said Siriano. “Reminiscent of the perfect red dress or car – the backdrop this season was designed as a glamorous yet neutral setting for a collection that is rich in texture and color.”

For his recent New York Fashion Week show, Christian Siriano drew inspiration from the Toyota Crown to design a striking runway backdrop that showcased his Fall/Winter 2025 Collection – a celebration of confidence and individuality. The Crown took center stage, draped in a stunning arrangement of red florals by renowned florist Pejy Kash, whose work has been featured in Vogue, BRIDES, and The New York Times.

More than just a visual statement, the Crown reflected the spirit of the collection—bold, sophisticated, and uniquely captivating. With its all-wheel drive and unmistakable design, the Crown served as statement showcasing that style and functionality go hand in hand. This collaboration also hints at an exciting future aligning the designer’s fearless creativity with Toyota’s vision of innovation and elegance. Together, they aim to redefine what it means to stand out, both on the runway and on the road.

“At Toyota, we strive to push boundaries and embrace bold design – principles that align perfectly with Christian Siriano’s visionary approach to fashion,” said Kaitlin Pedersen, Media Analyst, Toyota Motor North America. “This collaboration is a testament to the seamless connection between automotive and fashion design, where movement, confidence and individuality take center stage. We’re thrilled to continue our partnership with Christian and explore new ways to inspire through creativity and innovation.”

Toyota's Anime Adventure: How 'GRIP' Showcases Innovation

Toyota has always been at the forefront of innovation, not only in automotive engineering but also in engaging with diverse audiences through creative mediums. A prime example of this is Toyota's original anime series, "GRIP," available on the official Toyota USA YouTube channel. This high-octane series seamlessly blends thrilling storytelling with Toyota's cutting-edge vehicle designs, showcasing the brand's commitment to staying ahead of trends and resonating with a global audience.

"GRIP": Merging Animation with Automotive Excellence

"GRIP" is an original anime series that combines heart-pounding action, adrenaline-fueled races, and a battle between the human spirit and computer control. The series features Toyota's performance vehicles, such as the GR Corolla, highlighting their capabilities in dynamic and engaging narratives. By embracing the popular medium of anime, Toyota connects with a younger, tech-savvy audience, demonstrating the brand's adaptability and forward-thinking approach.

Innovative Storytelling Reflecting Toyota's Vision

The series delves into themes of human versus machine, echoing Toyota's real-world exploration of advanced technologies in vehicle design. Episodes showcase characters pushing the limits of performance, much like Toyota's engineers strive to enhance vehicle capabilities. This narrative reflects Toyota's dedication to innovation while maintaining the reliability and quality the brand is known for.

Engaging a Global Audience Through Cultural Trends

Anime has become a global phenomenon, transcending cultural boundaries. By producing "GRIP," Toyota taps into this widespread appeal, engaging viewers worldwide and reinforcing the brand's global presence. This initiative exemplifies how Toyota stays on top of cultural trends, integrating them into marketing strategies to build deeper connections with diverse audiences.

A Tradition of Dependability Meets Modern Innovation

While "GRIP" showcases Toyota's innovative spirit, it also emphasizes the brand's commitment to dependability. The vehicles featured in the series are not just high-performance machines; they embody Toyota's renowned reliability. This blend of excitement and trustworthiness assures customers that Toyota's cutting-edge designs are built upon a foundation of quality and durability.

Experience "GRIP" and Toyota's Vision

To witness this fusion of animation and automotive excellence, explore the "GRIP" series on Toyota's official YouTube channel. Each episode offers a glimpse into Toyota's innovative approach to storytelling and vehicle design, reflecting the brand's commitment to pushing boundaries while delivering the dependable performance customers expect.

By embracing contemporary mediums like anime, Toyota not only entertains but also showcases its forward-thinking philosophy, ensuring it remains a leader in both the automotive industry and global culture.

Driven by Community: How Engagement Strengthens Our Customers and Supports Toyota’s Work

Toyota is a mobility company, but we’re about more than cars. We also strive to be a thoughtful partner in the community.

This is why the community engagement and dealer relations team at Toyota is dedicated to utilizing powerful, effective, and creative ways of fostering meaningful, supportive relationships with the customers and communities that drive our work. Two recent examples show Toyota’s community engagement in action.

Kickstarting the Careers of Future Leaders
Having a professional headshot and a high-quality resume can provide a tremendous boost to young people’s confidence and increase their chances of landing a job. The Toyota Career Kickstart at Thurgood Marshall College Fund’s DevCon was designed to help attendees walk away with both.

For 175 college freshmen and sophomores, flashing brilliant smiles and dressed for success, Toyota provided complimentary headshots at this inaugural professional development event held last June in Atlanta, Georgia. A total of 65 resumes were reviewed and critiqued, and 175 resumes were uploaded to Toyota’s career database, giving students the opportunity to be connected to potential jobs and internships.

Thurgood Marshall College Fund intentionally focused DevCon on first- and second-year students from Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) after recognizing a gap in professional development opportunities for this age cohort. The fund’s goal is to empower the next generation of leaders by leveraging an early talent model.

Toyota is proud to partner with organizations like Thurgood Marshall College Fund that help our company build a diverse talent pool that ultimately benefits our customers.

Inspiring and Educating Young Minds
When youth have opportunities to use their creativity in new and engaging ways, powerful things can happen.

Which is why Toyota partnered with Brotherhood Sister Sol (BroSis) to offer a Toyota Mini Makers experience to 53 young innovators ages 8- to12-years old. BroSis is a nonprofit organization based in Harlem, New York, that works to educate and empower youth to create opportunities for themselves and their communities.

The Mini Makers workshop gave young people a hands-on opportunity to explore the exciting world of automotive design and engineering by assembling their own model car.

From the time the junior makers arrived and donned their custom hardhats and red coveralls, to the moment they proudly displayed their model cars, they were immersed in a world of creativity and learning. Guided by Toyota, each junior maker learned about craftsmanship, how their constructed vehicle works, and the joy of building something with their own hands.

By collaborating with organizations like BroSis, Toyota can help to fuel young people’s enthusiasm for learning while creating pathways to bright futures in automotive industry careers.

Toyota Tacoma Named Truck of Texas

 

Tacoma is the first Midsize Pickup Truck to Win the Top Honor at the Texas Auto Writers Association Annual Truck Rodeo

The all-new, fourth-generation Toyota Tacoma was awarded the title Truck of Texas by the Texas Auto Writers Association (TAWA) at their 31st annual Texas Truck Rodeo event. It is the first time a midsize pickup truck has earned Truck of Texas. This marks the third time in four years a Toyota pickup has taken the top award at the Truck Rodeo, with the full-size Tundra earning the honors in 2022 and 2024.

TAWA awarded the all-new Lexus GX 550 the other top award at the Truck Rodeo: SUV of Texas. It also voted on category and technical awards at the media drive event. Tacoma earned Midsize Truck of Texas, while the GX 550 is Midsize SUV of Texas. Toyota’s Wireless Trailer Camera received the Best Towing Technology award, and the Best Driver Assist or Safety Feature went to Toyota’s Safety Sense 3.0.

“After being the most popular midsize pickup in the U.S. the last 20 years in a row, it’s great to see the all-new Tacoma be presented Truck of Texas,” said Dedra DeLilli, Toyota vice president – Vehicle Marketing and Communications. “We are honored that TAWA recognized the Tacoma as the first Truck of Texas from a segment other than full-size pickup.”

The new generation Tacoma debuted in the spring of 2023 with two new powertrains, including the i-FORCE MAX hybrid powertrain, with a total system output of up to 326 horsepower and a whopping 465 lb.-ft. of torque, a 75 percent increase in torque compared to the previous generation V-6 powered truck. Designed by Calty Design Research in California, engineered by TMNA R&D in Ann Arbor, and assembled for North America, Tacoma offers 11 unique grades to fit various lifestyles and customer needs. The new Trailhunter grade builds upon Toyota’s legendary off-road and overlanding credibility with purpose-built engineering and robust components.

The Baja-inspired TRD Pro debuted the segment-first IsoDynamic Performance Seat for enhanced off-road driving control and comfort, while the first-ever Trailhunter grade is a factory-developed overlanding rig built from the ground up with the latest integrated off-road equipment from ARB, Old Man Emu, and RIGID.

TAWA’s annual Texas Truck Rodeo brings together journalists to evaluate automakers’ latest trucks and SUVs on an off-road course and a street drive. The fall event was held at Eagles Canyon Raceway in Decatur, Texas. Vehicles from the world’s top manufacturers were evaluated on interior, exterior, value, performance, and personal appeal.

“The Truck of Texas award is prestigious and competitive, and the Tacoma has truly earned the title,” said TAWA President Cory Fourniquet. “The Tacoma impressed our members with its diverse grades and new powertrains.”

TAWA is a Texas-based nonprofit association for automotive journalists promoting professionalism and quality in journalism for more than two decades. TAWA has grown to become one of the most influential and recognized automotive journalist associates in the U.S. The group produces two annual events – Texas Auto Roundup and Texas Truck Rodeo – that allow members to experience vehicles from various manufacturers in one place, at one time.

For more information on the Toyota Tacoma, visit the Toyota Newsroom.

Igniting the Spark of STEM Learning: How Driving Possibilities is Inspiring Students in Arizona, North Carolina, Georgia and Mississippi

Imagine if every day at school, students could expand their sense of what’s possible for their futures, show confidence and excitement for the new skills they are building, and prepare to pursue the career opportunities of tomorrow.

Additionally, imagine if every student were surrounded by the supports they need to make sure nothing prevents them from learning.

This is the vision that’s currently being activated across the nation through the Toyota USA Foundation’s Driving Possibilities, Toyota’s signature STEM education and community engagement initiative funded in part by Toyota Motor North America (TMNA) and Toyota Financial Services (TFS).

Inspired by a model developed at the West Dallas STEM School, Driving Possibilities is now up and running in eight additional U.S. locations where Toyota has facilities. The effort builds on decades of collaboration between Toyota and these communities.

All Driving Possibilities locations have similar goals, but when it comes to accelerating effective STEM learning and strengthening tomorrow’s workforce, there is no one-size-fits-all approach.

At each site, Toyota USA Foundation works closely with local school districts, institutions of higher learning and nonprofit organizations to tailor Driving Possibilities to the unique attributes and aspirations of the communities served.

The Foundation was excited to launch four new Driving Possibilities locations in 2024: Chandler, Arizona; Greensboro, North Carolina; Atlanta, Georgia; and Blue Springs, Mississippi. Read on to discover the innovative and inspiring work underway in these communities!

Driving Excitement for STEM Careers

In Arizona, the Driving Possibilities team learned that lack of awareness was a key reason why many students in the Chandler Unified and Tempe Elementary school districts were not pursuing careers in STEM industries. “Students either had inconsistent STEM learning experiences, or they didn’t know what STEM is and what types of careers are available to them,” explains Jeannie Bailey, Driving Possibilities program manager.

Additionally, teachers in both districts were spending significant amounts of classroom time addressing students’ basic needs rather than building foundational skills. Some schools lacked access to supportive services for students; others weren’t fully utilizing available services because of coordination challenges.

To help students see a future for themselves in the careers of tomorrow, Driving Possibilities is collaborating with Arizona partner schools to integrate STEM-based lessons, projects, and programs into the existing curricula. The program is also funding professional development for teachers, who play an essential role in guiding students’ exploration and curiosity.

To address basic needs and ensure classroom time can be focused on learning, Driving Possibilities teamed up with local nonprofits to establish community resource centers on school campuses. Resource centers make it possible for students and families to access things like food, vision screenings and therapy appointments, right within the walls of their school. Many services are available during and after school hours, and some also on weekends.

Another exciting highlight is the show of support from Arizona team members, who built and delivered over two thousand STEM kits to local students—demonstrating that Driving Possibilities is truly an all-hands effort.

Sparking Family Engagement
Liberty, North Carolina, will soon be home to Toyota’s first-ever North American battery plant. In nearby Greensboro, students have access to a strong STEM high school, but new learners often come in underprepared due to lack of STEM exposure in middle school.

To address this challenge, Driving Possibilities is working with Guilford County Schools, and Jackson Middle School specifically, to boost hands-on learning, teacher professional development and on-campus supports for middle school students and their families.

Family engagement is another area of focus, as families can be a critical source of support and motivation for students. “When family members have a deeper understanding of STEM careers, it can help build the student’s excitement as well,” says Erika Doolittle, Driving Possibilities program senior manager.

To make an even greater impact in North Carolina, Driving Possibilities is also developing a collaboration with Asheboro City Schools in Randolph County.

Lifting Barriers to Learning

In Georgia’s Fulton County School district, 100 percent of students in the eight identified schools are socioeconomically disadvantaged, a number that had profound implications for Driving Possibilities. “In talking with the communities, it became clear that before we could focus on preparing students to thrive in STEM, we had to look at basic needs,” says Destiny Whitaker, a Driving Possibilities senior analyst.

Driving Possibilities funding allowed more families to receive access to free food, counseling and other essential services coordinated by the district’s SAFE (Student and Family Engagement) centers. Another local partner, the Fulton Education Foundation, was instrumental in finding new resources to support the work—for example, by creating a partnership with the online styling company Stitch Fix to provide students with free, high-quality clothing.

With expanded resources for basic needs in place, the Georgia team is now incorporating STEM elements into the program. One creative offering is Kennesaw State University’s iTeach Maker Bus—a mobile learning space that offers experiential STEM activities and literally meets students where they are. “We found that bringing resources like the Maker Bus directly to communities is a real need. Families shouldn’t have to go out of their way to access STEM,” Whitaker says.

Translating Opportunity

In Mississippi, the Driving Possibilities team is working closely with the Lee County and Pontoctoc City school districts to enhance STEM teaching and reduce mobility barriers to STEM access. Overall learnings will also be shared with partners in Union County, where Toyota leads programs such as the 4T Academy.

In Pontoctoc City, where the number of English Language Learners (ELL) has nearly doubled in the past year, educators identified the need for additional language supports prior to tackling STEM. In response, Driving Possibilities is supporting the Newcomer Path—an intensive language acquisition program that helps ELL students develop the skills they need to pass required assessments in Biology, U.S. History, English II, and Algebra I.

“Students who do not pass those assessments do not graduate high school. The Newcomer Path will provide support to our students and their families as they contribute to our community while they acquire soft skills, industry certifications and exposure to career pathways, to which they would otherwise not have access,” says Danielle Schwartz, a Driving Possibilities senior analyst.

The Newcomer Path is expected to support more than 117 students in the 2024-2025 school year, empowering them to pursue innovative learning opportunities like those offered by Driving Possibilities.

A Limitless Road Ahead
There’s more to come as Toyota USA Foundation continues to roll out the Driving Possibilities initiative to additional U.S. communities. To learn more, visit https://toyotaeffect.com/key-initiatives/driving-possibilities/.

Toyota Launches ‘You Can’t Stop My Drive,’ A New Campaign Focused on Acknowledging and Celebrating Black Men through the Power of Mobility

Toyota has proudly lifted the wraps on its newest national brand campaign, “You Can’t Stop My Drive,” which celebrates the shared optimism for a progressive future, focused on Black men. Toyota’s 2025 campaign aims to reinforce its emotional connection with Black men by spotlighting mobility as a transformative influence in their daily lives.

The aim of “You Can’t Stop My Drive” is to help reshape public perceptions of Toyota among Black males. The brand is actively engaging younger buyers by highlighting mobility as more than just transportation, but a mindset and tool for an empowered and obtainable future. The new campaign represents a shift in tone that challenges Toyota to speak to the target in a bolder, more reflective and authentic way.

“I have a lot of heart for this consumer. In them, I see a younger version of myself. The confidence, the drive, the refusal to back down or alter their sense of expression,” said Corey D. Seaton, Burrell Communications group VP-group creative director. “We worked tirelessly to honor these men, injecting their bold and unflinching energy into every aspect of this campaign–music, copy, voice over, performances. We are more than thrilled with the outcome.”

The automaker echoed that sentiment. “We at Toyota are truly excited to embark upon this journey with our valued customers and the Black community, celebrating mobility as one of the key anchors of their progress and achievement,” said Mike Tripp, group vice president of Toyota Marketing. “Through this campaign, we want Black men to feel seen, valued, heard and appreciated by our brand, fostering a genuine emotional connection that goes beyond just our vehicles,” he added.

The new brand campaign taps into what’s at the forefront of Black men’s minds—the power of their unique culture, the impact of their experiences, their personal passions and how all intersect with mobility. The effort underscores Toyota’s on-going commitment to supporting the community’s desire to manifest new realities and create a progressive future together. It prominently features the voices of Toyota GR Cup racer Westin Workman and fashion influencer Devan on Deck. NBA star Damian Lillard also lends his iconic voice to the campaign’s content, further amplifying the message.

Toyota Unveils ‘You Can’t Stop My Drive’

• Westin Workman, GR Cup Racer: As a rising star in Toyota’s racing program, Workman embodies the determination and forward-thinking mindset that defines the campaign.
• Devan on Deck, Style and Fashion Influencer: Known for his unique approach to merging style and purpose, Devan on Deck connects with younger audiences, sharing how mobility fuels self-expression and progress. His contributions include Instagram Stories, branded stills and creative digital content.
• Damian Lillard, NBA Superstar: Lending his iconic voice to all of the campaign storytelling elements, Lillard—also a Toyota dealership owner himself—underscores the power of mobility as a means of breaking barriers and achieving dreams.

Together, these influencers showcase the multifaceted ways in which mobility drives success, self-discovery and life-changing optimism. Toyota’s “You can’t Stop My Drive” champions the intangible element of movement to uplift individuals and communities.

Five Things To Know About the All-New 2025 Toyota 4Runner

Toyota’s all-new 2025 4Runner is raising the bar in more ways than one. Living up to its rich legacy, the sixth-generation model delivers on performance, durability and premium amenities that have made it a front-runner in the company’s SUV lineup for the past four decades.

Designed in Michigan by the CALTY Design Research (CALTY) studio, the iconic off-roader is ready to take customers on their next adventures with the 2025 model year. From rugged terrains to smooth pavement, the all-new 4Runner is up for the challenge.

Here are five things to know about the 2025 Toyota 4Runner.

Striking A Balance 
The all-new 4Runner is stylish in every sense of the word and in a class all its own.

Designers reimagined the legacy “wrap over” quarter glass and the vehicle’s classic roll-down rear window, which were standout features with the first and second generations.

Designers blended modern sophistication while retaining 4Runner’s authenticity – qualities that loyal customers have grown accustomed to. The second-row tumble seats also help increase the 4Runner’s interior versatility and maximize cargo floor usage.

Built To Perform
The 2025 4Runner is built on Toyota’s TNGA-F global truck platform, which is shared with Tacoma, Land Cruiser, Tundra and Sequoia. This strong platform utilizes a high-strength boxed, steel-ladder frame and features a multi-link coil rear and double wishbone front suspension.

These features add strength and improve the comfort of the ride for passengers, even those seated in the available third row.

The all-new 4Runner’s standard models (SR5, TRD Sport, TRD Sport Premium, TRD Off-Road, TRD Off-Road Premium and Limited grades) boast an i-FORCE turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 278 horsepower and 317 lb-ft. of torque paired to an 8-speed automatic transmission.

That kind of performance lays the groundwork for taking customers on adventurous journeys like heading to campgrounds for the weekend or taking a scenic drive through winding roads to witness the majesty of beautiful groves. The standard i-FORCE engine puts the pedal to the metal for an unforgettable ride.

Pump Up the Power
For adventurers who want an electrified powerful performance, the i-FORCE MAX 2.4-liter turbocharged hybrid powertrain delivers. The all-new 4Runner provides up to 326 net combined horsepower and 465 lb.-ft. of torque and includes an 8-speed automatic transmission and up to 6,000-lb. towing capacity to help customers go harder than before.

This amped-up engine is available on the TRD Off-Road, TRD Off-Road Premium and Limited grades and comes standard on the TRD Pro, Trailhunter and Platinum grades. It’s a powerful powertrain offered on 4Runner and makes it the ideal vehicle for navigating rugged terrains and exploring the backcountry.

Ready for Off-Roading
Whether you’re driving over unpaved surfaces like dirt, sand, gravel, or other natural elements, the all-new 4Runner Trailhunter grade will help drivers tackle the roads. Built for overlanding, the Trailhuner iteration comes standard with integrated off-road equipment from ARB®, Old Man Emu® and RIGID Industries®.

It’s outfitted for epic excursions in a way that enables customers to traverse rugged terrains with ease.

Simply put, these features help make the boldest off-road excursions seamless, fun and, of course, adventurous.

New Grade, New Frontier
Amenities like the latest Toyota Audio Multimedia and Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 features are standard on all 2025 4Runner grades.

The all-new 4Runner expands its grade offering to provide customers with more choices. There are nine grades available, including SR5, TRD Sport, TRD Sport Premium, TRD Off Road, TRD Off Road Premium, Limited, Platinum, TRD Pro and the aforementioned Trailhunter.

All grades are praiseworthy and the Platinum grade is a first for the 2025 4Runner. It offers a luxury experience that surpasses expectations for many SUVs. That’s because its exterior and interior features grab attention at every turn. With its sleek, black exterior and can’t-miss styling elements, it embodies luxury and refinement without compromising its traditional DNA. The Platinum grade is a premium choice for those who enjoy going out for a night at the opera just as much as camping out in the woods. It’s the best of both worlds thanks to its impressive capabilities and stylish design.

What’s more, the heated second-row seats and automatic rain-sensing wipers elevate the entire journey.

Overall, no matter customers’ performance or style preferences, the all-new 2025 4Runner has something for just about everyone. It exemplifies the company’s philosophy of continuous improvement. The beloved SUV nameplate is the perfect blend of the future while including some classic elements from the past.