Archive for November, 2015

2015 Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro

Sunday, November 15th, 2015

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2015 Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro

Overview

The 2015 4Runner TRD Pro comes with the Trail Premium equipment, which is highlighted with special off-road tires, automatic headlights, a TRD-stamped aluminum front skid plate, Bilstein shocks, upgraded front springs, a higher ride height, a unique black front grille and TRD upgrades.

Safety Features

Standard safety features on the 2015 Toyota 4Runner include antilock disc brakes, stability and traction control, front seat side airbags, full-length side curtain airbags, front knee airbags and active front head restraints. Highlighting the safety equipment on the TRD is an off-road traction control system known as A-Trac that helps keep you moving on slippery terrain by redirecting engine torque to the wheel(s) that have traction and a rearview camera.

Safety Features

  • 4-wheel ABS
  • Front and rear head airbags
  • Dual front side-mounted airbags
  • Child seat anchors
  • Remote anti-theft alarm system
  • Emergency braking assist
  • Front and rear ventilated disc brakes
  • Rear door child safety locks
  • Daytime running lights
  • Engine immobilizer
  • Front fog/driving lights
  • Auto delay off headlamps
  • Dusk sensing headlamps
  • 2 front headrests
  • 3 rear headrests
  • Passenger airbag occupant sensing deactivation
  • Rear center 3-point belt
  • Turn signal mirrors
  • Stability control
  • Traction control
  • Rear height adjustable headrests
  • Tire pressure monitoring
  • First Aid Kit
  • Emergency Assistance Kit
  • TOYOGUARD Elite
  • TOYOGUARD Select
  • TOYOGUARD Select
  • TOYOGUARD Elite
  • TOYOGUARD Plus
Driving Impression

The Toyota 4Runner is a true off road vehicle, which can also serve as a daily driver. The rugged suspension and big tires create a hard ride and you can still maneuver on the road and off road. The 4Runner’s steering is very responsive in any driving condition.

The 4Runner’s V6 engine is adequate and the automatic transmission is smooth shifting. The 4Runner is fun and exhilarating to drive. 

Under the Hood

The Toyota 4Runner has a 4.0-liter V6 engine that produces 270 horsepower and 278 pound-feet of torque. The transmission is a five-speed automatic. My test drive TRD Pro had 4WD.

Mileage was acceptable at 18mpg (17 city/21 highway)

 

  • Engine & Performance
BASE ENGINE SIZE4.0 L CAM TYPEDouble overhead cam (DOHC)
CYLINDERSV6 VALVES24
VALVE TIMINGVariable TORQUE278 ft-lbs. @ 4400 rpm
HORSEPOWER270 hp @ 5600 rpm TURNING CIRCLE37.4 ft.

Inside

The interior of the 2015 Toyota 4Runner instruments and controls are well laid out and easy to use. The quality of the 4Runner’s interior is good using durable materials giving it a rugged appearance.

The 4Runners come with a touchscreen audio interface using Toyota’s Entune. suite,

The 4Runner accommodates 5 passengers comfortably. The seating is supportive and comfortable. The rear seat is reclining 40/20/40-split- configuration.

The 4Runner has excellent cargo space with 47 cubic feet of cargo room behind the second-row seats, and 89.7 cubic feet with all the rear seats folded down.

Below is a list of the many features found on my test drive: 

 

  • Multi-level heating driver seat
  • Multi-level heating passenger seat
  • 8 way power driver seat
  • Driver seat with power adjustable lumbar support
  • Height adjustable driver seat
  • Leatherette
  • Bucket front seats
  • Split-folding rear seatback
  • Reclining rear seats
  • Folding with storage center armrest
  • Rear ventilation ducts
  • Remote keyless power door locks
  • 4 one-touch power windows
  • Clock
  • Tachometer
  • Trip computer
  • External temperature display
  • Compass
  • Cruise control
  • Front and rear cupholders
  • Front and rear door pockets
  • Power steering
  • Universal remote transmitter (for garage door, security system, etc.)
  • Tilt and telescopic steering wheel
  • Audio and cruise controls on steering wheel
  • Rear view camera
  • Interior air filtration
  • Air conditioning
  • Leather and simulated alloy steering wheel
  • Turn signal in mirrors
  • Electrochromatic inside rearview mirror
  • Dual illuminating vanity mirrors
  • Element antenna
  • 8 total speakers
  • AM/FM stereo
  • Satellite radio w/real time traffic satellite radio
  • Auxiliary audio input and USB with external media control
  • 3 Months of provided satellite radio service
  • USB connection
  • Navigation with voice activation navigation system
  • Bluetooth wireless data link for hands-free phone
  • Real time traffic
  • Comfort
 

Outside

The 4Runner had a styling update for 2015, with new angles. My test drive was black-on-black TRD Pro model, which had no chrome. My test drive was highlighted with black wheels. The 4Runner has a new front, a higher stance, aggressive off-road tires and flat-black wheels,

Summary

If you are in the market for a large SUV then go to your local Toyota dealer for a test drive of the Toyota 4Runner.

Specifications

Exterior Measurements

WIDTH6 ft. 3.8 in. (75.8 in.) LENGTH15 ft. 11.3 in. (191.3 in.)
WHEEL BASE9 ft. 1.8 in. (109.8 in.)

Interior Measurements

FRONT HEAD ROOM38.6 in. FRONT HIP ROOM56.5 in.
FRONT LEG ROOM41.7 in. FRONT SHOULDER ROOM57.8 in.
REAR HIP ROOM55.7 in. REAR HEAD ROOM38.6 in.
REAR LEG ROOM32.9 in. REAR SHOULDER ROOM57.8 in.

2015 Lexus LS 460 AWD

Monday, November 9th, 2015

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2015 Lexus LS 460 AWD

Overview

The 2015, Lexus LS 460 features new software for its navigation system. Also new is the Lexus Enform Remote app enabling owners to control some vehicle functions through their smartphones and the rearview camera gains dynamic grid lines to assist you during parking. 

Safety Features

The 2015 Lexus LS 460 comes standard with antilock brakes, traction and stability control, front knee airbags, front side airbags, side curtain airbags, front and rear parking sensors and a rearview camera. Lexus Safety Connect, which includes automatic collision notification, an emergency assist button, enhanced roadside assistance and a stolen vehicle locator, is also standard on all LS 460 models.

Safety-related options include lane keeping assist, a blind spot warning system with rear cross-traffic alerts and adaptive cruise control with a pre-collision system that preps various vehicle systems when it detects a possible collision.

Safety Features

  • 4-wheel ABS
  • Front and rear head airbags
  • Dual front side-mounted airbags
  • Child seat anchors
  • Remote anti-theft alarm system
  • Emergency braking assist
  • Front and rear ventilated disc brakes
  • Rear door child safety locks
  • Daytime running lights
  • Engine immobilizer
  • Front fog/driving lights
  • High pressure washers headlamps
  • Auto delay off headlamps
  • Dusk sensing headlamps
  • Xenon high intensity discharge headlamp
  • 2 front headrests
  • 3 rear headrests
  • Passenger airbag occupant sensing deactivation
  • Rear center 3-point belt
  • Turn signal mirrors
  • Stability control
  • Traction control
  • Rear multi-adjustable headrests
  • Post-collision safety system
  • Adaptive headlights
  • Self-leveling headlights
  • Tire pressure monitoring
  • Emergency Service*
  • Airbag Deployment Notification*
  • Stolen Vehicle Tracking/Assistance*
  • Advanced Pre-Collision System w/All Speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control
  • Blind Spot Monitor w/Rear Cross Traffic Alert
  • Pre-Collision System w/All-Speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control

Driving Impression

The 2015 Lexus LS 460 is a very impressive car to drive and is ultra quiet on the highway. The V8 engine has impressive power and pick up when you push down the accelerator. The LS460 has an eight-speed automatic transmission, which shifts smoothly,

The steering is responsive and handles well in turns. I found the LS460 very impressive in maneuverability.

 

Under the Hood

The 2015 Lexus LS 460 AWD has a 4.6-liter V8 engine that produces 360 hp and 347 lb-ft of torque.

Fuel economy for the AWD LS460 is 18mpg (16/23).

 

  • Engine & Performance
BASE ENGINE SIZE4.6 L CAM TYPEDouble overhead cam (DOHC)
CYLINDERSV8 VALVES32
VALVE TIMINGVariable TORQUE347 ft-lbs. @ 4100 rpm
HORSEPOWER360 hp @ 6400 rpm TURNING CIRCLE38.8 ft.

 

Inside

The interior of the Lexus LS 460 is elegant, which features the use of high-end materials. Materials like supple leather and unique vinyl, which are highlighted with elegant stitching throughout the cabin. Accenting the cabin is Wood trim to make the LS460 a true ultra luxury vehicle.

Seat comfort, is outstanding in the front, with sculpted, multi-adjustable front bucket seats. The seats are supportive and there is plenty of room for 5 adults to sit comfortably.

Trunk space is ample can accommodate18 cubic feet.

Below is a list of the many features the Ls460 has for 2015:

Features

Interior Features

Front Seats

  • Multi-level heating passenger seat
  • 10 -way power passenger seat
  • 12 -way power driver seat
  • Passenger seat with power adjustable lumbar support
  • Multi-level heating driver seat
  • Driver seat with power adjustable lumbar support
  • Height adjustable driver seat
  • Height adjustable passenger seat
  • Leather
  • Bucket front seats
  • Folding with storage and pass-thru center armrest
  • Rear ventilation ducts
  • Hands-free entry
  • Reverse tilt dual mirrors provides curb view when vehicle in reverse
  • 4 one-touch power windows
  • Clock
  • Tachometer
  • Trip computer
  • External temperature display
  • Compass
  • Cruise control
  • Front and rear cupholders
  • Front and rear door pockets
  • Front seatback storage
  • Electric power steering
  • Universal remote transmitter (for garage door, security system, etc.)
  • Tilt and telescopic steering wheel
  • Audio and cruise controls on steering wheel
  • Rear view camera
  • Roadside Assistance*
  • Destination Download*
  • Interior air filtration
  • Dual zone climate controls – driver and passenger
  • Leather and wood steering wheel
  • Heated steering wheel
  • Turn signal in mirrors
  • Electrochromatic inside rearview mirror
  • Dual illuminating vanity mirrors
  • Memorized settings for 3 drivers
  • Memorized settings 3
  • Memorized settings includes steering wheel
  • 10 total speakers
  • Video monitor
  • DVD player
  • AM/FM stereo
  • Satellite radio w/real time traffic satellite radio
  • Speed sensitive volume control
  • Auxiliary audio input and USB with external media control
  • 1 subwoofer(s)
  • 3 Months of provided satellite radio service
  • Navigation with voice activation navigation system
  • Safety Connect telecommunications service
  • Bluetooth wireless data link for hands-free phone
  • Real time traffic

Outside

The LS 460 exterior is highlighted with the Lexus signature spindle wide grille, elevated hood and distinctive rear end. The styling of the LS460 definitely has the Lexus DNA, which makes this vehicle distinctive.

Summary

If you are in the market for a ultra luxury sedan then go to your local Lexus dealer for a test drive today. 

Specifications

Exterior Measurements

WIDTH6 ft. 1.8 in. (73.8 in.) HEIGHT4 ft. 10.3 in. (58.3 in.)
LENGTH17 ft. 1 in. (205 in.) GROUND CLEARANCE0 ft. 5.1 in. (5.1 in.)
WHEEL BASE10 ft. 1.7 in. (121.7 in.)

Interior Measurements

FRONT HEAD ROOM38.0 in. FRONT HIP ROOM55.4 in.
FRONT LEG ROOM43.7 in. FRONT SHOULDER ROOM58.5 in.
REAR HIP ROOM55.5 in. REAR HEAD ROOM38.0 in.
REAR LEG ROOM36.7 in. REAR SHOULDER ROOM56.4 in.

 

2015 Toyota RAV4 XLE

Monday, November 2nd, 2015

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2015 Toyota RAV4 XLE

Overview

For 2015, the Toyota RAV4 is unchanged with the exception of some new options and features. My test drive was a XLE, which had the new standard wheels.

Safety Features

Standard safety equipment on every 2015 Toyota RAV4 includes antilock disc brakes, a rearview camera, stability control, traction control, whiplash-reducing front head restraints, front-seat side airbags and full-length side curtain airbags. A driver knee airbag and a rearview camera are also standard equipment.

Safety Features

  • 4-wheel ABS
  • Front and rear head airbags
  • Dual front side-mounted airbags
  • Child seat anchors
  • Emergency braking assist
  • Ventilated front disc / solid rear disc brakes
  • Rear door child safety locks
  • Daytime running lights
  • Engine immobilizer
  • Front fog/driving lights
  • Auto delay off headlamps
  • Dusk sensing headlamps
  • 2 front headrests
  • 3 rear headrests
  • Passenger airbag occupant sensing deactivation
  • Rear center 3-point belt
  • Turn signal mirrors
  • Stability control
  • Traction control
  • Rear height adjustable headrests
  • Tire pressure monitoring
  • Remote Security System
  • First Aid Kit
  • VIP RS3200 Plus Security System
  • TOYOGUARD Elite
  • TOYOGUARD Select
  • TOYOGUARD Select
  • TOYOGUARD Plus
  • TOYOGUARD Elite

Driving Impression

Driving the Rav4 with the standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine is more than adequate and very fuel-efficient. The six-speed automatic transmission shifts smoothly and handles most road conditions well.

The steering was fairly responsive and the acceleration was good. My RAV4 was a FWD and handled well on the highway and in the city. 

Under the Hood

A 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 176 horsepower and 172 pound-feet of torque powers the 2015 Toyota RAV4. The average mileage was good at 26mpg (23-city/31 highway.

  • Engine & Performance
BASE ENGINE SIZE2.5 L CAM TYPEDouble overhead cam (DOHC)
CYLINDERSInline 4 VALVES16
VALVE TIMINGVariable TORQUE172 ft-lbs. @ 4100 rpm
HORSEPOWER176 hp @ 6000 rpm TURNING CIRCLE34.8 ft. 

Inside

The interior of the 2015 Toyota RAV4 features a streamlined and modern-looking dash. The RAV’s design and materials are little above average and the layout of controls is well thought out.

I found the seats supportive and was fairly comfortable. All the conventional controls in the 2015 RAV4 are easy to use and accessible.

The rear seat has enough room for 3 passengers. The rear seats were comfortable and have a recline adjustment.

The cargo area can accommodate 38.4 cubic feet behind the rear seats. With the rear seats down there is 73.3 cubic feet available. That’s one of the largest capacities in its class.

Below is a list of all the features, that came on my test drive:

  • Height adjustable driver seat
  • Cloth
  • Bucket front seats
  • Split-folding rear seatback
  • Reclining rear seats
  • Folding center armrest
  • Remote keyless power door locks
  • 1 one-touch power windows
  • Clock
  • Tachometer
  • Trip computer
  • External temperature display
  • Cruise control
  • Front and rear cupholders
  • Front and rear door pockets
  • Front seatback storage
  • Electric power steering
  • Tilt and telescopic steering wheel
  • Audio and cruise controls on steering wheel
  • Rear view camera
  • Interior air filtration
  • Dual zone climate controls – driver and passenger
  • Turn signal in mirrors
  • Dual vanity mirrors
  • 6 total speakers
  • AM/FM stereo
  • Satellite radio w/real time traffic satellite radio
  • Auxiliary audio input and USB with external media control
  • 3 Months of provided satellite radio service
  • USB connection
  • Bluetooth wireless data link for hands-free phone

Outside

The 2015 RAV4 has sharp crisp lines and has added a swing wing-up rear door instead of the swing-out design on previous versions.

Summary 

If you are in the market for a 5 passenger SUV then you should go to your local Toyota dealer for a test drive of the RAV4 

Specifications

Exterior Measurements

WIDTH6 ft. 0.6 in. (72.6 in.) HEIGHT5 ft. 7.1 in. (67.1 in.)
LENGTH14 ft. 11.9 in. (179.9 in.) WHEEL BASE8 ft. 8.7 in. (104.7 in.)

Interior Measurements

FRONT HEAD ROOM38.9 in. FRONT HIP ROOM54.3 in.
FRONT LEG ROOM42.6 in. FRONT SHOULDER ROOM57.3 in.
REAR HIP ROOM48.9 in. REAR HEAD ROOM38.9 in.
REAR LEG ROOM37.2 in. REAR SHOULDER ROOM55.4 in.