Toyota and Wyland Foundation Partner to Encourage Resource Conservation Throughout Earth Month

Toyota kicks off Earth Month by expanding its partnership with the Wyland Foundation to encourage residents nationwide to preserve our natural resources by taking an online pledge to conserve water. Toyota’s support of the Wyland Foundation, a non-profit founded by renowned environmental, marine artist Wyland, is part of the automobile company’s long-standing commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship.

This year, Toyota will support the Wyland Foundation to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the Clean Water Act as the organization hosts the National Mayor’s Challenge for Water Conservation, March 30 – April 30. With support from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the campaign challenges mayors nationwide to inspire their residents to conserve natural resources by taking a free, online pledge to save water. Participants in the city that registers the most pledges within the Challenge dates will be eligible to win a variety of prizes, including the new Toyota Prius c, which has an EPA-estimated city fuel economy rating of 53 miles per gallon. To take the free online pledge, visit www.mywaterpledge.com.

"An integral part of Toyota's commitment to sustainability is building strategic partnerships with organizations such as the Wyland Foundation, which for years has been running innovative programs that focus on environmental education," said Michael Rouse, vice president of philanthropy and community affairs for Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A. "Both Toyota and the Wyland Foundation are passionate about educating and inspiring people of all ages about the importance of environmental stewardship. We hope that the possibility of winning a new Prius c Hybrid vehicle will motivate even more people to get involved."

“With a shared goal of promoting environmental stewardship, we are excited to continue working with Toyota on our Earth Month initiatives,” said artist Wyland. “With great support from partners like Toyota, we are able to expand the Mayor’s Challenge to even more cities this year, and generate awareness about the importance of conservation to protect our environment both for today and the future.”

This year also marks the second anniversary of Toyota and Wyland’s Earth Month Heroes, a Southern California program that recognizes 30 exemplary citizens who find ground-breaking ways to work toward sustaining a healthy planet. The Wyland Foundation, Toyota and regional broadcast partner KCBS / KCAL will make donations of $250 on behalf of the Earth Month Heroes to deserving organizations in Southern California, with a $1,000 grand prize donation, to support local conservation efforts. For the full list of Earth Month Heroes, visit www.wylandfoundation.org, starting April 1.

To kick off both the National Mayor’s Challenge for Water Conservation and Earth Month Heroes program, the Wyland Foundation and Toyota will host an event on March 30 at The Americana Brand in Glendale, Calif. with environmental artist, Wyland. Open to the public, Wyland will paint a marine life mural with attendees that will later be displayed in Anthropologie at The Americana. Additional support was provided by the U.S. Forest Service, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), Waterpik, Rain Bird, Lowe's and Sterling Plumbing.

In addition to its support of the Wyland Foundation, Toyota engages the public through a variety of environmental initiatives and activities as part of the company’s commitment to impactful environmental stewardship. One of Toyota’s key environmental initiatives is TogetherGreen™, a five-year program funded by a $20 million Toyota grant to the National Audubon Society that aims to inspire people to take action to improve the health of the environment. For the past 14 years Toyota has also partnered with the National Environmental and Education Foundation (NEEF) to support National Public Lands Day (NPLD), held annually in September, and is the largest, hands-on volunteer event to improve and enhance public lands. Recently the partnership expanded to include “Every Day” grants to community-based organizations.

The all-new Prius c is designed to function as an urban-friendly vehicle with an engaging driving experience and hatchback utility. With a city fuel economy rating of 53 mpg, Prius c offers the highest city mpg rating of any vehicle without a plug. The Prius c joins the Prius Family, which includes the third generation Prius Liftback, the versatile new Prius v and the Prius Plug-in Hybrid, which will debut in early 2012.

Courtesy of ToyotaPressroom

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Toyota to unveil 'all-new' sedan at N.Y. auto show

Toyota Motor Corp. will unveil an "all-new" sedan next week at the New York auto show that likely will be a replacement for the full-sized Avalon.

Dealers who saw a preview of the car last year said Toyota called it the Avalon successor that is due this fall.

One dealer said the sedan represents a dramatic styling change for the brand.

Toyota has previously declined to comment on future plans and spokesmen weren't immediately available for comment today.

A teaser sketch of the vehicle released today shows fastback styling similar to the coupe-sedan lines of the Volkswagen CC, Audi A7 and Mercedes-Benz CLS.

In a statement, Toyota called the sedan's styling "elegant yet athletic."

The sedan is one of 19 new or redesigned U.S. models coming from the Toyota, Lexus and Scion brands this year. The automaker is trying to rebound from two years of declining sales due to the unintended-acceleration recall crisis in 2010 and the Japanese earthquake and tsunami in 2011.

The Avalon has been Toyota's mainstay full-sized sedan since 1995, when it replaced the Cressida as the brand's top-line vehicle. Sales of the car, now in its third generation, have tapered off as the segment has slumped.

Last year, the Avalon accounted for 28,935 U.S. sales -- less than a third of the peak of 104,078 reached in 2000. This year's demand is up 76 percent through February.

The debut will take place at 10:30 a.m. EDT on April 5, Toyota said.

Courtesy of AutoNews

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Today is your last day to provide a submission for the Toyota 100 Cars For Good Program! Be sure you don't miss the opportunity to participate in this amazing event!

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Spitzer Toyota Monroeville - (5) Star Review on DealerRater

• The experience that my husband and I had at Spitzer Toyota this evening was outstanding!
  Our salesman ,Chris, was very friendly and easy going. He was very patient and made us feel very comfortable in the showroom as we waited to sign the paperwork(this process can take awhile). Chris was very upfront and honest with us the entire time. He did not pressure us into anything, but instead helped us to get the specific vehicle we wanted to take home today. There were several others interested in the same vehicle all day...it was such a great deal!!!
  Our finance manager, Kelly, was amazing. She helped put us in the vehicle that we so badly wanted to get today. She worked extremely hard to quickly get the financing done for our purchase and at a cost that was comfortable for us. She did not push any unnecessary products, but instead explained which options would be best for us and why. No SURPRISE costs! She explained everything, answered all questions, and gave great advice for future purchases.
  The sales manager ,Rob, took the time to introduce himself, speak with us and was extremely friendly. The entire atmosphere of this dealership is like none I have ever been to in the past.
  I would recommend this dealership and its employees to anyone who is looking for a relaxed, no pressure, honest, friendly and overall great experience when purchasing your next new or used vehicle. Thanks again Chris and Kelly!!! -brian1429

Scion Announces Pricing for Its 2013 FR-S Sports Car

Scion today announced pricing for its 2013 FR-S compact rear-wheel drive sports car. The FR-S starts with a manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) of $24,200 when equipped with a six-speed manual transmission, and $25,300 when equipped with a six-speed automatic transmission that features paddle shifters and rev-match technology. The high-performance coupe is the fifth model to join the Scion family and will go on sale this spring.

“Scion’s goal was to create an affordable sports car that true driving enthusiasts could enjoy,” said Jack Hollis, Scion vice president. “We accomplished that goal with the FR-S starting under $25,000…a total home run! Add in Scion’s complimentary Scion Service Boost, our no-haggle no-hassle Pure Price, and Scion’s network of about 1,000 dealers, and the FR-S is a grand slam.”

Pure Balance
The FR-S, which stands for Front-engine, Rear-wheel drive, Sport; is Scion’s definition of an authentic rear-wheel-drive sports car with exceptionally balanced performance and handling, compelling style, flexible utility and surprising fuel efficiency.

The FR-S is a true “scion,” born into a lengthy history of Toyota performance cars and motorsports. During planning and development, it was most inspired by the AE86 generation of the Corolla, better known as the Hachi-Roku, meaning “8-6” in Japanese. The AE86 was a front-engine, rear-wheel-drive coupe that was lightweight and well balanced, making it a solid choice for driving enthusiasts.

Inspired by the AE86, the FR-S is designed around the core goal of achieving “Pure Balance.” The balance begins with the strategic use of the world’s only flat boxer engine in a front-engine, rear-wheel drive configuration. The engine’s compact size and flat shape allow it to be mounted mid-ship and extremely low, giving the car a dynamically favorable front-to-rear weight ratio of 53:47 and a low center of gravity comparable to some exotic supercars.

The FR-S’s 2.0-liter, naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine is the result of a joint development between Toyota and Subaru. The partnership begins by combining Subaru’s newly developed, horizontally opposed engine and Toyota’s cutting edge D-4S injection system that incorporates both direct and port injection. The D-4S system, partnered with a high 12.5:1 compression ratio, results in an impressive 200 horsepower and 151 pound-feet of torque.

The flat-four mates with either a six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic transmission. The manual offers quick, precise shifts with a short-throw; while the automatic features aggressive up shifts and sporty rev-matched down shifts that are initiated by steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters. Power is transferred to the pavement via a standard Torsen® limited-slip differential.

The idea of “Pure Balance” is further realized by the FR-S’s lightweight design and compact size. The combination allows the car to be quick and nimble into and out of corners, with dynamic maneuverability and confident handling. The coupe’s weight is kept to a minimum by utilizing a lightweight aluminum hood, a solid roof, and by featuring a trunk design instead of a hatchback.

The FR-S’s low weight is matched with a dynamically tuned suspension setup consisting of MacPherson struts up front and a double wishbone system in the rear. Lightweight 17-inch alloy wheels and ventilated disc brakes are standard on all four corners.

Powerful Exterior Design
The fierce exterior of the FR-S is a solid reflection of its inner power. The profile, inspired by the Toyota 2000GT, reveals a hood and roof-line that is remarkably sleek and low, giving it an aerodynamic shape that channels air cleanly over to the top. The low stance continues to exaggerate the coupe’s menacing face, which is made up of sharp lines, a wide mouth and angular headlights that house the projector-beam halogen lamps. The aggressive front fenders protrude upward and boast the iconic ‘86’ piston emblem, which highlights the car’s AE86 heritage as well as its unique new boxer engine. The rear fascia sits low and wide, with aerodynamic lower treatments that surround the sporty dual exhaust system. LEDs illuminate the edgy taillights, while center-mounted backup lights finish the muscular design.

The FR-S will be available in seven colors including Raven, Asphalt, Hot Lava, Argento, Ultramarine, Firestorm and Whiteout.

Performance-Focused Interior
The FR-S’s interior includes a 2+2 seating configuration that is designed with both form and function in mind. The front seats feature deep bolsters and are mounted extremely low and are comfortable yet assertive, while the rear seat folds down flat, creating flexible space. The car will come standard with FR-S badged floor mats. The large center-mounted tachometer is the focus of the three-gauge cluster and features a programmable shift-indicator, informing the driver of the engine’s vitals. Speed is monitored by both digital and analog gauges. The FR-S features a sporty leather-trimmed steering wheel that has both tilt and telescopic adjustment.

The FR-S will come standard with an eight-speaker AM/FM/CD/USB 300-watt maximum output Pioneer™ audio system. Standard features also include HD Radio™ technology and Bluetooth® connectivity that allows both hands-free phone connection as well as streaming audio capability.

Sports Car Performance with Excellent Safety Features
FR-S comes standard with six airbags, including dual-stage advanced driver- and front-passenger airbags, front-seat-mounted airbags and side-curtain airbags.

Like all Scions, FR-S features the Star Safety System that includes Traction Control (TRAC), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Enhanced Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Brake Assist (BA), an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), and Smart Stop Technology (SST).

The delivery, processing and handling (DPH) fee for all Scion models is $730 and is not included in the MSRP. DPH fee for vehicles distributed by Southeast Toyota (SET) and Gulf States Toyota (GST) may vary.

Warranty and Complimentary Scion Service Boost
Like all Scion models, the FR-S is covered by a 3-year/36,000-mile comprehensive warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty. The FR-S will come standard with Scion Service Boost, a complimentary plan covering normal factory-scheduled maintenance for two years or 25,000 miles, whichever comes first, and two years of 24-hour roadside assistance.  

Scion FR-S Preliminary Specifications

Length			166.7 in.
Width			69.9 in.
Height			51.2 in. (not including antenna base)
Wheelbase			101.2 in.
Track		Front	59.8 in.
		Rear	60.6 in.
Seating capacity			4
Engine	Total displacement		1,998 cc
	Type		Horizontally opposed four-cylinder, D-4S injection, DOHC
	Bore × stroke		86 × 86 mm.
	Maximum output		200hp @ 7,000 rpm
	Maximum torque		151 lb.-ft. @ 6,600 rpm
Transmission			6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic with paddle shifters
Driveline			Rear-wheel drive
Suspension		Front	MacPherson struts
		Rear	Double wishbone
Brakes		Front	Ventilated Disc
		Rear	Ventilated Disc
Tires		Front	215/45R17
		Rear	215/45R17
Fuel tank			13.2 gallons
Fuel			Premium Unleaded           Courteys of ToyotaPressroom

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Toyota Giving 100 Cars to 100 Nonprofits -- Less Than One Week Left to Apply

Time is running out for nonprofits to apply for Toyota’s 100 Cars for Good program, which will be giving 100 cars to 100 nonprofits over the course of 100 days. Winners of these vehicles will be selected through public voting on Facebook.

 

Applications will close in less than one week – at 12:00 pm PT on Monday, March 26 or once 5,000 applications have been received, whichever comes first. Complete information is available at www.100carsforgood.com.

 

See a short video about 100 Cars for Good  
Access 100 Cars for Good logo and photos 

How 100 Cars for Good Works: 

 

• An independent panel of experts will identify 500 finalists from the applications received. Finalists will be notified in April. Registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations and non-profit Native American or Alaskan tribes with sovereignty are eligible to apply.

• Beginning on Monday, May 14, the public will be able to vote on Facebook for the organizations they think should win a new car at www.100carsforgood.com. (This links to a special 100 Cars for Good Facebook page.)

• Five finalist organizations will be profiled each day for 100 consecutive days. Whichever nonprofit has the most votes at the end of the day will win a vehicle.

• Finalists will be eligible for one of six Toyota models.  The four runners up every day will each receive a $1,000 grant from Toyota.

• Jim Lentz, President and Chief Operating Officer of Toyota Motor Sales, commented, “At Toyota, we appreciate what a big difference a new car or truck can make for organizations that are doing so much to improve lives and strengthen communities across America. Over the past 20 years, Toyota has contributed more than half a billion dollars to nonprofits throughout the U.S. 100 Cars for Good allows us to build on that commitment in new ways, putting the public in the ‘driver’s seat’ as we work to help community organizations broaden their impact.”

Helping Nonprofits Build Digital Marketing and Social Media Skills:

 

• 100 Cars for Good is also an opportunity for Toyota to help nonprofits develop or expand their digital marketing skills. As part of this commitment, the company will provide every finalist with a digital video camera, training toolkit and free online advertising credits to help support their 100 Cars for Good campaign.

• Molly Reeser, Executive Director of Detroit’s Camp Casey, one of last year’s 100 Cars winners noted, “In addition to a new truck, Toyota gave us the training and resources we needed to get more sophisticated about social media marketing for the long-term. This has had a real impact, with our ‘likes’ on Facebook jumping five-fold very quickly.”

Courtesy of ToyotaPressroom

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New Fuel Efficient Models Help Strengthen Toyota's Industry Leading Fuel Efficiency

As drivers endure the steady ascent of fuel prices nationally, Toyota, the most fuel-efficient full-line auto manufacturer in the United States, has strengthened its portfolio of efficient cars with five recently introduced vehicles that offer an average combined fuel economy of 44 mpg.  

The Scion iQ (EPA rated 37 mpg combined), Camry Hybrid (EPA rated 40.5 mpg combined average for LE and XLE trim levels), and Prius v (EPA rated 42 mpg combined) all arrived to market in late 2011. The Prius Plug-in (EPA rated 50 mpg combined and 95 MPGe), featuring extended electric range, is making its way to first customers in the 15 launch states, and the Prius c (EPA rated 50 mpg combined) will be on sale nationally March 12.

These new vehicles represent a broad range of leading-edge drivetrain and engineering technologies that help them achieve a high level of efficiency. Hybrid Synergy Drive, extended electric vehicle range, generous use of lightweight high-strength steel, a focus on aerodynamics, and the use of efficient Continuously Variable Transmissions are among the features that help these new vehicles attain a high level of fuel efficiency. 

These five new models arrive to market with Toyota already enjoying a 12-percent improvement in Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) and a 10-percent improvement in U.S. truck CAFE over the past five years. Toyota remains committed to a long-term plan to bring a portfolio of advanced technologies to market, including hybrid, battery electric and hydrogen-powered vehicles.

According to the EPA class summary found on U.S. Department of Energy’s www.fueleconomy.gov website, Toyota offers several models that achieve 2012 Best-in Class fuel economy EPA ratings (excluding Plug-in Hybrid and pure EV vehicles).  The Prius c leads the EPA’s compact classification with 50 mpg combined. The Prius Liftback’s combined 50 mpg leads the EPA’s midsize category, and the midsize station wagon class is led by the 42 mpg combined offered by the Prius v.  These segment classifications are determined by the EPA’s measurement of a vehicle’s interior volume.

Toyota and Scion branded vehicles also represent six of the site’s Top 10 EPA-rated Fuel Sippers for 2012 (excluding PHEV or pure EV products), and occupy four spots in that list’s top five.  Toyota family vehicles found on the U.S Department of Energy’s Fueleconomy.gov Top Ten EPA-rated Fuel Sippers include: 

• 2012 Prius c (ranked 1^st, 53 city, 46 hwy)
• 2012 Prius (ranked 2^nd, 51 city, 48 hwy)
• 2012 Prius v (ranked 4^th, 44 city, 40 hwy)
• Toyota Camry Hybrid LE (ranked 7^th, 43 city, 39 hwy)
• Toyota Camry Hybrid XLE (ranked 8^th, 40 city, 38 hwy)
• 2012 Scion iQ (ranked 10^th, 36 city, 37 hwy)

Prius was named the Best Overall Value of the year (Passenger Car category) for 2012 by IntelliChoice. Prius continues to be the world’s best-selling fuel-efficient vehicle, with more than 3.5 million vehicles sold worldwide.  Since its U.S. introduction in 2000, Prius – when compared to the average car – has saved American consumers an estimated $2.93 billion in fuel costs*, 1.1 billion gallons of gas* and 16.1 million tons of CO2 emissions*.

* Based on average EPA estimated combined mpg rating of Prius versus all MY 2001 to 2011 cars, 10,000 miles/year, and average U.S. gas prices including taxes. Fueleconomy.gov. Actual mileage may vary. US Energy Information Administration

Courtesy of ToyotarPressroom

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Toyota Giving 100 Cars to 100 Nonprofits in 100 Days

Do you know a nonprofit that could make great things happen with a new car? At 12:00 pm ET/9:00 am PT today (Monday), applications will open for Toyota’s 100 Cars for Good, a major national philanthropy program in which the automaker is giving away 100 cars to 100 nonprofits over the course of 100 days. Winners will be selected each day through public voting on Facebook. 

Application materials and complete information on the program are available at www.100carsforgood.com. 

• 100 Cars for Good video
• 100 Cars for Good logo and photos

“At Toyota, we appreciate what a big difference a new car or truck can make for organizations that are doing so much to improve lives and strengthen communities across America,” said Jim Lentz, President and Chief Operating Officer of Toyota Motor Sales. “Over the past 20 years, Toyota has contributed more than half a billion dollars to nonprofits throughout the U.S. 100 Cars for Good allows us to build on that commitment in new ways, putting the public in the ‘driver’s seat’ as we work to help community organizations broaden their impact in neighborhoods nationwide.”

Applying for the 2012 100 Cars for Good Program

• Registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations and non-profit Native American or Alaskan tribes with sovereignty can apply online at www.100carsforgood.com beginning on Monday, March 12. This address will link to the 100 Cars for Good Facebook page.

• 100 Cars for Good applications will be open for two weeks (until Monday, March 26 at 11:59 am PST]), or until 5,000 applications are received.  From this group, 500 finalists will be selected and certified by an independent panel of experts.  Finalists will be notified in April.

• Each finalist will then submit a short video and explanation on how a new vehicle would help further its work.  Both will be featured on the 100 Cars for Good site.

• Public voting on the finalists will begin on Monday, May 14 at www.100carsforgood.com with five organizations up for consideration each day for 100 consecutive days.

• The four runners up each day will each receive a $1,000 grant from Toyota.

• Finalists will be eligible for one of six Toyota models, including the Camry Hybrid, Highlander SUV, Prius v hybrid, Sienna minivan, Sienna Mobility or Tundra full-sized pickup.

• A six-year, 100,000-mile powertrain warranty will also be provided for each vehicle, compliments of Toyota Financial Services.

Making a Lasting Impact in Communities Nationwide

This is the second consecutive year for Toyota’s 100 Cars for Good program.  100 Cars for Good is the first Toyota initiative to engage the public in determining how its corporate philanthropic donations will be awarded.  Vehicles from the first year of the program – which were awarded to nonprofits in 31 states and the District of Columbia – are making a significant difference across the country, including for:

• The Community Soup Kitchen of Morristown, NJ, which can now pick up donations of food that used to be turned away due to a lack of transportation, allowing it to provide meals and food to even more people in need;

• Camp Casey, a program near Detroit that provides horseback riding visits for kids with cancer that is now able to expand its reach to families in other parts of the state; and

• Washington, DC’s Aleethia Foundation, whose new minivan enables it to transport wounded veterans recovering at the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center to much needed social nights away from the hospital.

Teresa Connolly, Executive Director of New Jersey’s Community Soup Kitchen, which was awarded a Toyota Sienna in last year’s program, commented, “Toyota’s donation was a game changer for us, making it possible to significantly expand our food programs at a time of extraordinary need. This ability to serve more people and to bring greater awareness to our mission simply wouldn’t have happened without Toyota.”

More than Just Cars – Nonprofit  Finalists Build Digital Marketing and Social Media Skills

As part of the 100 Cars for Good program, Toyota will provide every finalist with a digital video camera, training toolkit and free online advertising credits to help them create or expand their presence in social media and other digital platforms. The nonprofit finalists can use these resources for their 100 Cars campaign and can continue to build on them after the program.

Molly Reeser, Executive Director of Detroit’s Camp Casey, one of the 2011 100 Cars recipients,  noted, “In addition to a new truck, Toyota gave us the training and resources we needed to get more sophisticated about social media marketing for the long-term. This has had a real impact, with our ‘likes’ on Facebook jumping five-fold in very short order.”

Courtesy of ToyotaNewsroom

Penguins punish Bruins for ninth straight victory

By the time Sunday's showdown at Consol Energy Center was complete, Boston defenseman Zdeno Chara had been pounded into submission and four of his teammates had departed with injuries.

The Penguins beat the Big, Bad Bruins at their own game in a 5-2 victory. In fact, they've beaten lots of good teams at their own games lately, now having won nine straight.

"We can play different types of games against different opponents," Penguins coach Dan Bylsma said.

Against the Bruins — viewed by many as the league's most physical team — the Penguins didn't back down, but initiated contact from the game's opening minutes.

The Penguins' target was the biggest man on the ice, Chara, who towers at 6-feet-9. He was knocked down twice by right wing James Neal and twice by left wing Chris Kunitz. Other Penguins, notably left wing Matt Cooke, walloped Chara, who was a game-worst minus-3, throughout the contest.

"You've got to be physical against him," said right wing Arron Asham, who gave the Penguins a 1-0 lead 3:24 into the first period.

"Our goal was to chip it in his corner and try to hit him. It's tough when a guy's... seven feet tall and 260 pounds. You don't see him on the ice very often, but he was on the ice four or five times today. It takes a lot out of a big guy."

Neal found himself in the penalty box early in the first for a shot against Chara, but the Penguins hardly altered their formula. They continued to punish Chara — the Penguins have allowed two power-play goals since Jan. 31, so the risk of a penalty wasn't about to stop them— throughout the contest, and in the final minutes, the Bruins had the look of a fatigued team. The offensive surge they displayed in the second period was gone during the final 20 minutes.

"It was like body shots in boxing," Asham said. "Eventually a guy is going to wear down. We were trying to chop him down slowly. The guys did a great job."

The Bruins played Saturday afternoon at home against Washington and had their chances for a comeback wounded when four players — defenseman Johnny Boychuk, center Patrice Bergeron, center Max Sauve and defenseman Adam McQuaid — left for portions of the game with injuries. Boston produced a dominant stretch in November and December, going on a 21-3-1 run, but has played indifferent hockey since and is perhaps showing signs of playing into June last season.

The Bruins are 16-15-2 since Jan. 1.

The Penguins, conversely, are on a 21-4-1 run and looked fast and fresh throughout. Their ability to physically control Chara was further evidence that Bylsma's system is clicking and that the Penguins are controlling all facets during their winning streak.

"When we're playing well," right wing Craig Adams said, "we're finishing our checks. Anyone who is out there as often as Chara, you want to be physical. He can be so dominant. With him, it's more volume of hits. Not too many are going to affect him. He can just be so dominant."

The Penguins' flurry of shots to the Bruins' captain finally took their toll.

Neal, Kunitz, Asham, right wing Pascal Dupuis and defenseman Matt Niskanen scored for the Penguins. Center Evgeni Malkin took the NHL scoring lead with three assists.

Goalie Marc-Andre Fleury continued his stellar play by stopping 34 of 36 shots.

"This is big," Fleury said. "Our team just has so much confidence right now."

This game, however, was a team effort. And the Penguins' goal was to physically disrupt the Bruins at every opportunity.

Knowing they can beat the league's best teams in every possible way — being tough against the physical Bruins, winning a 2-0 struggle with the defensive-minded Rangers and winning a 6-4 shootout with the high-flying Flyers during the past month — is giving them as much confidence as the fact that they've won nine straight.

And they could be welcoming captain Sidney Crosby back into the lineup Thursday in New York for a showdown with the conference-leading Rangers.

"We've got a special group here," Asham said. "We can play a rough game. We can play a finesse game. We'll play any way."

Courtesy of PittsburghLive

CAPTION THE PHOTO: Share your best title with us, fans! Looks like this guy could use a ride with about three more wheels, what car do you think he would look best in?

Toyota teases 2013 Venza, set for debut in New York

With all the exciting news coming out of Geneva, you'll have to excuse us for snickering just a little bit when we saw this press release. Yes, the Venza is as deserving of a mid-cycle refresh as any other vehicle, though it appears from this teaser that whatever tinkering Toyota has done will prove itself superficial at best.

As is typical these days, this crossover-ized Camry is getting some revised front and rear lighting, and what we would guess will be minor modifications to the front fascia. We can see from the picture that the grille looks to be a bit smaller and those are surely LED's in the new headlights.

New 19-inch wheels and three new colors are probably going to matter less to buyers than the fact that "value has been enhanced" by making more features standard. This might help address our biggest complaint when we test drove the Venza back in 2009 – that's it's just too darn expensive for what you get.

 

Courtesy of AutoBlog

You'd be hard-pressed to find an athlete more deserving of a statue than Mario Lemieux. Today, the Pittsburgh Penguins unveiled one depicting Lemieux, one of hockey's all-time greats and the team's co-owner, in front of Consol Energy Center.

Thank you to the author of this review for sharing their feedback with us! Great work team, keep it up!

Spitzer Toyota Scion - (5) Star Review on DealerRater

• Our experience at Spitzer started off a little rocky with an unprofessional salesman. We were ready to walk away from the agreed upon deal but the new Sales Manager, Jim Christ, was very understanding of our concerns and offered to make things right. Kristy saved the deal by finding us the desired car in a timely fashion. James Howard delivered the car to us and was very friendly and knowledgeable about our Highlander. I would gladly buy another car from James in the future. -woodcrest2

Toyota has most Consumer Reports top models by category

Toyota models snared "top pick" designations in five of 10 vehicle categories in the Consumer Reports annual auto issue, on sale March 6, and announced today.

Last time one brand so-dominated the catgory picks was Honda in 2003, CR says, noting that no Hondas won "top pick" status this year. It's the second time in the past three years that honda has been conspicuous by its absence.

CR named the redesigned Camry hybrid the best "Family Sedan" -- not the whole Camry line, just the hybrid. Toyota updated the gas-electric drivetrain for the 2012 model, making it quicker and smoother, and is offering it on a lower price model, so buyers can get one a bit less than $30,000. For buyers who can't afford that tariff, the Hyundai Sonata was top pick for "Affordable Family Sedan" at about $21,000.

Our Test Drive column about the 2012 Camry re-do took special note of the hybrid model. You can read that Test Drive column here.

The CR bouquet comes shortly after Toyota took significant honors in a recent J.D. Power and Associates quality report card. Toyota still is nearly delirious after that one, having been battered so long by bad news -- safety recalls, earthquake/tsunami devastation in Japan that caused worldwide product shortages, floods in Thailand that dried up supplies of computer chips used in auto computers.

CR's criteria for naming top picks include ranking at or near the top of their category on overall road test scores, average or better predicted-reliability ratings in CR's subscriber survey and high performance in government or crash tests. Here are the magazine's top models in 10 vehicle categories:

FAMILY SEDAN: Toyota Camry Hybrid ($29,052). In addition to its impressive 38 mpg overall fuel economy, other high points include a comfortable ride; a roomy, quiet, cabin; fairly quick acceleration;
and for 2012, a nicer interior and somewhat crisper handling (although the Camry is still no sports sedan).

SPORTY CAR: Ford Mustang ($28,880 to $43,880). The heart of this iconic sports car has always been its strong acceleration and rumbling V8 power. But now there's more to the Mustang than power. Agile
handling, a decent ride, comfortable front seats, and very good fit and finish make the current version an inviting package. The Mustang delivers good fuel economy (22-24 mpg) for its class.

SMALL SUV: Toyota RAV4 ($24,405 to $30,328). With a four-cylinder engine, the RAV4 delivers some of the best gas mileage in its class (23 mpg). The spirited V6 version accelerates as quickly as many sports sedans and gets only 1 mpg less than the four-cylinder model.

AFFORDABLE FAMILY SEDAN: Hyundai Sonata ($21,800). CR chose the four-cylinder Sonata as a more affordable alternative to the Camry Hybrid. The Sonata provides a roomy, well-equipped cabin, supple ride, nimble handling, and thrifty 27 mpg overall, for just a little bit more money than many small
sedans.

FAMILY HAULER: Toyota Sienna V6 ($35,810). The Sienna fits the bill nicely for families looking for a comfortable, roomy interior, plenty of features, and the ability to carry up to eight people. Among its high points are lively performance, decent fuel economy (20 mpg), and a comfortable ride, although the
handling is rather lackluster. It's the only minivan that has at least average reliability.

SPORTS SEDAN: Infiniti G ($34,225 to $37,225). The G37's agile handling, blistering acceleration, and comfortable, well-crafted interior make it one of CR's highest-scoring sedans. The G is on this list for the sixth straight year. The less expensive but equally inviting G25 isn't as quick, but gets 24 mpg
overall, 3 more than the G37.

GREEN CAR: Toyota Prius ($26,750 to $28,217). The Prius sets the standard for fuel efficiency, practicality, and affordability with its overall 44 mpg. Its roomy interior, comfortable ride, and hatchback versatility make it easy to live with. The 41 mpg of the new Prius V wagon easily tops its class.

SMALL CAR: Subaru Impreza ($21,345). Redesigned for 2012, the all-wheel-drive Impreza is a well-rounded roomy sedan with nimble handling and a compliant, absorbent ride that rivals some luxury sedans. Fuel economy of 27 mpg overall is impressive for an AWD car.

PICKUP TRUCK: Chevrolet Avalanche ($47,435). The Avalanche provides the best combination of utility and versatility of any pickup CR has tested. Its unified bed and cab help give it a steady, comfortable ride, and the cabin is quiet. Its overall mpg is 14.

FAMILY SUV: Toyota Highlander ($38,578 to $47,255). The refined, comfortable, and quiet Highlander has consistently ranked near the top of its class in CR's road-test scores and has had above-average
reliability. The V6 version delivers a decent 18 mpg overall, and the hybrid model tops all SUVs at 27.

Details on Consumer Reports' Top Picks for 2012, Automaker Report Cards, Best and Worst list and other key findings are available in the April issue of ConsumerReports on newsstands March 6 or at the magazine's website here.

Consumer Reports says its tests include more than 50 individual tests on every vehicle, including evaluations of braking, handling, comfort, convenience, safety and fuel economy.

Roughly 6,000 miles of general driving and evaluations are racked up on each test car during the testing process. CR buys all its test cars anonymously from dealers.

 

Courtesy of USAToday

On this day in 1962 Wilt Chamberlain scored 100 points in a single game. Is there a moment in sports history you wish you could have witnessed?

Toyota’s 2012 Prius v: Right product, right time

If there was a wish list for cars, one that would be right up there–at least for us at Automobile Journal – is a hybrid powered wagon.

    Think about it.

     Wagons are cool theses days, whether you’re talking about a new one or classic one built in the sixties. And hybrids? Also cool. And standing to get cooler by the second as gasoline prices head for new heights unseen by any of us in our worst nightmares. Can you believe $5 a gallon? Believe it. Ask any hapless Californian.

      Given all of the above, Toyota may have outdone itself with its new 2012 Prius v, a wagon-like model  that does it all: Haul, get darned good gas mileage, and it’s mighty comfortable to boot. And it’s one of the smoothest, silkiest hybrid systems in the market–much more pleasant to drive than some of the other hybrids we’ve piloted.

     Base price for this car is $29,990, and for that, you get an awful lot of  standard equipment.

      It includes the SULEV (hybrid synergy drive system), alloy wheels, independent front suspension, the Toyota Star Safety system that includes traction control, stability control, ABS, electronic brake force distribution, brake assist and smart stop technology, whiplash injury lessening seats, and electric power steering.

    There’s also a full array of other power assisted equipment, Toyota’s fantastic Entune system (more about that later) navigation, 60/40 split sliding/reclining fold-down rear bench seat with armrest and adjustable headrests,and center console with armrest, storage and tray.

     And there’s plenty more besides, including heated front seats and  single dial climate controls.

But watch yourself with the ordering list.  By the time an advanced technology package that included a wide array of highly desirable equipment like Navi with Entune, advanced parkingn guidance system, a cool panoramic moonroof and other items was added, the bottom line was a hefty $36,555. 

      That’s a lot of bread, although we will say that our experience with the car clearly showed it’s worth every penny–if you’ve got it.

    Toyota says the new Prius v, with “v”  expressing the vehicle’s versatility, will “meet the needs of growing families with active lifestyles while providing the same attributes traditionally found in the Prius DNA.  It shares the current generation Prius’ platform and Hybrid Synergy Drive technology.  Featuring a compact exterior yet spacious interior, the Prius v will feature over 50-percent more interior cargo space than the current Prius.”

    The exterior styling has many of the same elements you’ll  find in the sedan, including the roofline that is mostly an extended version of  what you see on the sedan, traingular headlights, and a similar front end design.

      Overall, Automobile Journal’s reaction to the styling is that it’s attractive, and not all that different from the sedan. It’s sort of like an elongated sedan, which isn’t a bad thing at all in our estimation.

 Toyota’s definitely aiming the Prius v at families with economy and hybrid practicality in mind.  Here’s what they are saying:

“Inside, the Prius v emphasizes overall proportion with spaciousness and flexibility for active families.  Comfortable interior space and good visibility has been assisted by a high seating position, ample head room, and an impressive 38-inch couple distance, providing generous rear legroom.  A low, wide-opening rear hatch reveals 34.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, making it the most spacious dedicated hybrid vehicle on the market and better than some compact SUVs.” 

     As we mentioned earlier, the Prius v has room for five, and the rear seat is particularly comfy for long trips. 

     The headrests hit you just right, and there’s plenty of stretchout room, too. And since the rear seat reclines up to 45 degrees and slides too, it’s especially cool for a nap for passengers en route to their destination.

      The 60/40 split, folding rear seats present four different seat arrangements that provide excellent usability for passengers and luggage, while a fold-flat front-passenger seat allows for extremely long cargo.

 Also available, and a Toyota-first, is a resin Panoramic View moonroof with power retractable sun shades that provides an open atmosphere in the cabin with a 40-percent reduction in weight as compared to conventional glass roofs of the same size, and heat insulation performance.

     We had one on our tester, and it really made the car feel airy and sunny, with fantastic views of   rare blue Pittsburgh skies for everyone aboard. We loved it!

       Up front, instrument-panel controls, including a single-dial air-conditioning control and a center-mounted digital combination meter, provide an advanced look and user-friendly command. 

It takes some getting used to the single control; you have to slide sometimes and turn other times, and it’s counter-intuitive. Definitely takes some getting used to.

 The driving controls – including the Push Button Start, parking switch, electronic shift lever, and driving mode selection – are distinguished by silver trim.

     The Prius v is rated at 44/40 miles per gallon, with an annual estiumated fuell cost of $1,321 based on 15,000 miles driven annually with gas priced at $3.70 a gallon.

    Toyota promises  that it will also emit 66-percent fewer smog-forming emissions than the average new vehicle.

  Four driving modes (Normal, Power, Eco and EV) satisfy a variety of road conditions and driver preferences.  A Smart Key System with Push Button Start, an electronic shift lever, Hill Start Assist Control (HAC), and a back-up camera are standard. 

 Available options include energy-efficient LED headlamps, Dynamic Radar Cruise Control with a Pre-Collision System (PCS), and Advanced Parking Guidance System.

For a high level of safety, there are seven airbags, a high-strength cabin and an energy-absorbing body structure with impact beams, cross members and leg absorption pads.  New driver and front-passenger seat design helps lessen possible whiplash injury during a collision.

Now about Toyota’s Entune multimedia system.  The system uses the mobile phone to provide a richer in-vehicle experience with fully integrated and wireless upgradeable navigation, entertainment and information services.

Using the system you can link into support for engaging mobile apps, such as Bing, OpenTable,  and movietickets.com,  along with accessing useful travel-related services, such as live weather, traffic, fuel information (location and price), stocks, news and sports.

     We found the system to be pretty easy to use, and certainly way more usable than Ford’s confusing and complex MyTouch system.

      In addition, Toyota says, “Entune brings the largest selection of music options available to a vehicle, including iheartradio’s 750+ stations, Pandora’s personalized music, the driver’s personal songs from portable media players and iPods (via USB or Bluetooth audio streaming), and more than 170 stations from XM satellite radio.”

The release adds, “Featuring a best-in-class, advanced conversational voice recognition system that helps the driver to stay focused on the road, Toyota Entune eliminates the need to memorize thousands of voice commands and helps reduce driver distraction.”

Entune will also allow for audio read-back and replay capabilities for text messages, with the ability to respond by pre-set “Quick Reply Messages.”

Prius v will combine Entune with a standard Display Audio system which will include HD Radio with iTunes tagging for future purchase; XM radio, weather, sports, stocks and local fuel pricing; Bluetooth hands-free phone and wireless audio; and full iPod integration including music and video.

     So how was the Prius v for everyday life?

      Great. It’s got a nice, urban friendly size which was perfect for crowded Pittsburgh, and the hybrid system feels pretty sprightly. OIf coursek kthere’s the unusual shifting pattern and gar shift to contend with, but if you’ve driven Priuses before, you’ll be ready for it.  The rest of us will take some time–expect a few false moves in shifting before you finally get accustomed to it.

    The only thing that the Prius v can be said to lack is just a bit more of a sporting flavor to it. It’s pretty sedate as a rule. But who cares? We sure didn’t because it has so many other things about it that we found it pretty appealing.

    It’s still a cool car to drive, and it sure is the right product–at the right time.

Courtesy of AutomobileJournal