Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Next-gen Toyota Prius spied inside and out]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/24/next-gen-toyota-prius-spied-inside-and-out/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/24/next-gen-toyota-prius-spied-inside-and-out/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/24/next-gen-toyota-prius-spied-inside-and-out/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2015 Toyota Prius hybrid prototype caught testing in camouflage

Toyota has built itself into the industry's standard-bearer when it comes to hybrids, and it isn't going to let the poster child for gas-electric vehicles get stale on the market. These spy shots captured in California are our first good look at the next-generation Prius, which could come to market wearing a 2015 model year designation.

Even though it looks like Toyota may have blown its annual camouflage budget on this mule, we can clearly see that it will have the same iconic half-moon design that has been with the car since 2003. If so, this goes against reports from last year that suggested the car would be getting a different look inspired by the 2013 NS4 Concept. Although, this could also indicate that the Prius family will continue to grow - adding a new sedan - to the existing Prius C, Prius V and Prius Plug-In lineup.

These spy shots also give us an indication as to what the interior will look like, with a more stylish three-spoke steering wheel and an instrument panel design that sort of reminds us of a BMW. On the other hand, all the tape, cobbled together pieces and lack of space for a center stack display screen has us thinking this isn't what the final product will resemble.

As for what will be powering the 2015 Prius, we hear that updated versions of the current electric system and engine will be employed, but it will carry over the nickel metal hydride batteries found in today's model. Still no word on the rumored possibility of all-wheel-drive system, either. In addition to a new design and updated powertrain, it sounds like production of the next-generation Prius could be making a move to the US, joining the line at Toyota's Tupelo, MS plant.

Next-gen Toyota Prius spied inside and out originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 24 May 2013 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2015 toyota priushybridspy shotstoyotatoyota priusFri, 24 May 2013 16:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20583374/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/24/next-gen-toyota-prius-spied-inside-and-out/20583374/article-detail.xml 20583374 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/2015-toyota-prius-spy-shots-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/2015-toyota-prius-spy-shots-628.jpg <![CDATA[Toyota Prius line may not reach 2013 sales target]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/22/toyota-prius-line-may-not-reach-2013-sales-target/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/22/toyota-prius-line-may-not-reach-2013-sales-target/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/22/toyota-prius-line-may-not-reach-2013-sales-target/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


2013 Toyota Prius C

2012 was a good year for the Toyota Prius line, the hybrid that started it all moving 236,659 units, being the best-selling model in California for the year and the Prius C (pictured) being deemed the most reliable car of 2012 by Consumer Reports. Then 2013 happened, and gas prices dropped more than expected, and people haven't been buying the little hybrids like they used to.

A report in Bloomberg says Toyota set 250,000 units as the Prius family's sales target for this year, but hits like the double-digit drop in year-on-year performance in February have helped lower 2013 sales by 8.4 percent compared to 2012, making the objective "a challenge" to reach. The declines in Prius sales come even as hybrid sales overall were up in the first couple of months this year, including sales of other Toyota and Lexus hybrids. Jim Lentz, Toyota's North American chief, said the Prius target would be adjusted if necessary.

Toyota Prius line may not reach 2013 sales target originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 22 Apr 2013 14:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hybridhybrid salesprius salestoyotatoyota priusMon, 22 Apr 2013 14:15:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20546288/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/22/toyota-prius-line-may-not-reach-2013-sales-target/20546288/article-detail.xml 20546288 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/prius-sales-target_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/prius-sales-target.jpg <![CDATA[NHTSA investigating 561k Toyota Prius hybrids for possible steering shaft defect]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/25/nhtsa-investigating-561k-toyota-prius-hybrids-for-possible-steer/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/25/nhtsa-investigating-561k-toyota-prius-hybrids-for-possible-steer/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/25/nhtsa-investigating-561k-toyota-prius-hybrids-for-possible-steer/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2007 Toyota Prius - front three-quarter view, blue

The Detroit News is reporting that the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration will investigate some 561,000 Toyota Prius models for potentially defective steering shafts. The affected hybrid models are from the 2004-2009 model years. The story indicates that NHTSA is weighing whether or not to grant a defect petition, which claims that Toyota incorrectly assembled the hatchback's steering linkage.

As of this writing, there is no recall. However, a recall based on the Prius steering shaft would be the third related to steering issues for the model since 2006. Seven years ago, Toyota recalled 170K Prius models for potential cracking of the intermediate shafts, and in November of 2012, the automaker recalled 670K units to replace the steering shaft extension assembly.

We'll be monitoring NHTSA's signals to see if this investigation turns into a full-fledged recall. For now, stay tuned.

NHTSA investigating 561k Toyota Prius hybrids for possible steering shaft defect originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 25 Feb 2013 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2004 toyota priusnational highway traffic safety administrationnhtsapriusrecalltoyotatoyota safetyMon, 25 Feb 2013 11:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20476276/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/02/25/nhtsa-investigating-561k-toyota-prius-hybrids-for-possible-steer/20476276/article-detail.xml 20476276 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/07priusloc2hi12_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/07priusloc2hi12.jpg <![CDATA[Toyota recalls slew of models for possible airbag calibration defect]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/28/toyota-recalls-slew-of-models-for-possible-airbag-calibration-de/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/28/toyota-recalls-slew-of-models-for-possible-airbag-calibration-de/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/28/toyota-recalls-slew-of-models-for-possible-airbag-calibration-de/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,



Toyota is recalling sixteen models from the 2009 to 2013 model years over a potential issue with passenger seat airbag calibration. In spite of the large number of different Toyotas covered by the recall, just 3,235 units are included. These were vehicles installed with accessories like leather seat covers and headrest DVD systems by Southeast Toyota Distributors, and during the modifications the passenger seat occupant sensor system might not have been calibration tested. If the sensors aren't set up properly, the passenger airbag might not work as it should.

Affected models include: Avalon, Camry, Camry Hybrid, Corolla, 4Runner, FJ Cruiser, Highlander, Highlander Hybrid, Prius, Prius V, Rav4, Sequoia, Sienna, Tacoma, Tundra and Venza. Scroll down for the relevant model years for each.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration indicates that the recall will begin this month. Southeast Toyota will inform owners, at which time they can take their Toyotas to dealers for testing and repair. The complete bulletin from the NHTSA with more information is below.

Continue reading Toyota recalls slew of models for possible airbag calibration defect

Toyota recalls slew of models for possible airbag calibration defect originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 28 Jan 2013 13:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>4RunnerAvalonCamryCamry HybridCorollaFJ CruiserHighlanderHighlander HybridNational Highway Traffic Safety AdministrationnhtsaPriusPrius VRAV4recallSequioaSiennaTacomatoyotaTundraVenzaMon, 28 Jan 2013 13:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20439997/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/01/28/toyota-recalls-slew-of-models-for-possible-airbag-calibration-de/20439997/article-detail.xml 20439997 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/toyotacamryrecall_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/toyotacamryrecall.jpg <![CDATA[Toyota to name Prius developer Uchiyamada its next chairman?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/23/toyota-to-name-prius-developer-uchiyamada-its-next-chairman/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/23/toyota-to-name-prius-developer-uchiyamada-its-next-chairman/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/23/toyota-to-name-prius-developer-uchiyamada-its-next-chairman/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Takeshi Uchiyamada, Toyota executive - headshotA report in Japan's Nikkei newspaper cited by Automotive News claims that the father of the Prius, Takeshi Uchiyamada, will take the role of chairman at Toyota. Currently Toyota's vice chairman, Uchiyamada joined the automaker in 1969, and in 1994 became the chief engineer of the Vehicle Development Center that birthed The Hybrid to Rule Them All. He said of it, "When we started, the purpose wasn't to do a specific car project. It was to make a vehicle suitable for the 21st century." A specialist in vehicle noise, vibration and harshness, Uchiyamada's leadership on the Prius helped continue his quiet run to the top of the company; he remains a huge fan of hybrids, but has been reticent about the place of electric vehicles in the current marketplace.

If the move is confirmed - it might happen as soon as this year, according to Reuters - Uchiyamada would replace Fujio Cho, Toyota's chairman for the past six years, who would move to an advisory role. Cho spent seven years overseeing Toyota's manufacturing operations in Kentucky as well as spearheading manufacturing efforts in Texas, France and China. Company president Akio Toyoda would maintain day-to-day charge of Toyota.

Toyota to name Prius developer Uchiyamada its next chairman? originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 23 Jan 2013 09:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chairmanfujio chopriustakeshi uchiyamadatoyotatoyota chairmanWed, 23 Jan 2013 09:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20435632/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/01/23/toyota-to-name-prius-developer-uchiyamada-its-next-chairman/20435632/article-detail.xml 20435632 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/takeshiuchiyamada_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/takeshiuchiyamada.jpg <![CDATA[Car thieves avoiding Toyota Prius]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/21/car-thieves-avoiding-toyota-prius/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/21/car-thieves-avoiding-toyota-prius/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/21/car-thieves-avoiding-toyota-prius/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2011 Toyota Prius

The National Insurance Crime Bureau has taken a closer look at how often car thieves target the Toyota Prius. As it turns out, the most popular hybrid on US roads has a very low theft rate, and when it does get stolen, law enforcement are quick to return the machine to its rightful owners. All told, 2008-2012 Prius models saw a theft rate of one in 606 vehicles compared to one in 78 for all models on the road from the same model year period. Just 2,439 Prius hybrids were stolen in the US between September 4, 2000 and June 30, 2012.

Not surprisingly, California holds the dubious honor of taking the lion's share of those thefts, with 1,062. Florida took second place with 127, followed by New York, Washington and Texas. Toyota has sold 1.2 million Prius models in the US, which means the vehicle constitutes more than half of all hybrid vehicles on the road today. You can take a look at the full NICB press release below for more information.

Continue reading Car thieves avoiding Toyota Prius

Car thieves avoiding Toyota Prius originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 21 Nov 2012 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>grand theft autonational insurance crime bureaunicbpriusthefttoyotavehicle theftWed, 21 Nov 2012 16:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20385818/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/11/21/car-thieves-avoiding-toyota-prius/20385818/article-detail.xml 20385818 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/2011-toyota-prius-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/2011-toyota-prius-628.jpg <![CDATA[Next Toyota Prius to get electric all-wheel drive]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/19/next-toyota-prius-to-get-electric-all-wheel-drive/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/19/next-toyota-prius-to-get-electric-all-wheel-drive/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/19/next-toyota-prius-to-get-electric-all-wheel-drive/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2011 Toyota Prius front 3/4

If rumors are to be believed, big changes are in store for the next Toyota Prius. UK outlet Auto Express recently spoke with a Toyota engineer who leaked details concerning the development of the popular hybrid's successor. According to that engineer, "The next Prius will redefine the hybrid as we know it."

The forthcoming Prius will be constructed on a new C platform, good for a 70-kilogram (153-pound) reduction in weight. The car's current 1.8-liter engine will be modified, and the electric motor and power inverter will be downsized. But, according to the Auto Express source, it will deliver more power. It will also be more fuel efficient - which we kind of assumed - however, the source is claiming 90 miles per gallon fuel economy (on the UK cycle, we imagine, so something closer to 75 mpg here). If true, that's definitely impressive.

While the standard Prius will get these drivetrain changes, the plug-in version will remain largely the same. That said, both models will receive an electric motor that drives the rear wheels, as part of an e-4WD system. According to the source, Toyota would be, "targeting snowy areas" and said that the rear wheels will be driven at speeds "up to 37 mph." Interestingly enough, Toyota will stick with nickel-metal hydride battery for the Prius, with lithium-ion fitted for the plug-in model.

All of this new drivetrain technology is set to come with a change in design philosophy for the Prius. The wedge shape synonymous with the Prius will be ditched in favor of a sleeker design, moving the A-pillar backwards. This design is not supposed to effect aerodynamics or overall functionality.

It's hard to argue with the success of the Prius in its current design and drivetrain layout, but with many new hybrids nipping at the heels of the Prius' dominance, it seems like a good a time as any for Toyota to raise the bar once again for environmentally conscious driving.

Next Toyota Prius to get electric all-wheel drive originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 19 Nov 2012 09:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hatchbackhybridlithium-ionnickel-metal hydrideplug-in hybridpriustoyotaMon, 19 Nov 2012 09:14:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20381204/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/11/19/next-toyota-prius-to-get-electric-all-wheel-drive/20381204/article-detail.xml 20381204 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/01-2011-toyota-prius_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/01-2011-toyota-prius.jpg <![CDATA[Toyota recalling 670k Prius models in US, 2.77 million vehicles worldwide [UPDATE]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/14/toyota-recalling-2-77-million-vehicles-for-water-pump-steering/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/14/toyota-recalling-2-77-million-vehicles-for-water-pump-steering/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/14/toyota-recalling-2-77-million-vehicles-for-water-pump-steering/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



Automotive News reports Toyota is recalling a total of 2.77 million vehicles worldwide for faulty water pumps and steering system issues. A total of 670,000 of those are 2004-2009 Prius hybrids sold in the US. Those vehicles are headed back to the dealer, where technicians will inspect the intermediate shaft in the steering column for deformed splines and replace the shaft if necessary. Around 350,000 of those same models will also be inspected for a faulty electric water pump. In some cases, the motor driving the pump could stop, causing the electric motor to overheat and stop functioning while being driven.

Toyota has not received any reports of accidents as a result of either problem, and says the inspections and replacement work should be completed in around one hour.

The recalls also affect 496,000 vehicles in Europe and a further 1.5 million in Japan. All told, the steering shaft recall covers 10 models worldwide, including the Corolla and Wish models manufactured in Japan between 2000 and 2009. Five models are affected by the water pump recall, though we're still waiting for confirmation from Toyota as to which they are. You can read the full Toyota press release below, covering the US-spec Prius issues, for more information.

UPDATE: We've heard back from Toyota about the two recall issues reported on this morning, and have a bit of clarification on the models in question, worldwide, now.

Prius is the only model affected by the water pump issue. As we indicated earlier, the faulty water pump could cause the electric motor to shut down, which then causes the ECU to shut down the gasoline engine, as well.

The other nine models affected by the steering shaft issue (which is unrelated to the water pump issue) are mostly Japanese Domestic Market vehicles: Allex, Avensis, Corolla, Corolla Feilder, Corolla Run X, Corolla Spacio, Isis, WiLL VS and Wish.

We also have a breakdown of the number of vehicles affected by both recalls, by world market. 670k in the US, 1.5 million in Japan, 15k in Canada, 496k in Europe, 3,800 in China, 35k in Oceania, 1,500 in the Middle East and a total of 12,600 in "other" regions.

Continue reading Toyota recalling 670k Prius models in US, 2.77 million vehicles worldwide [UPDATE]

Toyota recalling 670k Prius models in US, 2.77 million vehicles worldwide [UPDATE] originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 14 Nov 2012 08:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>corollapriusprius recallrecallsteering recalltoyotatoyota prius recalltoyota recalltoyota steering recalltoyota water pump recallwater pumpwater pump recallWed, 14 Nov 2012 08:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20379618/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/11/14/toyota-recalling-2-77-million-vehicles-for-water-pump-steering/20379618/article-detail.xml 20379618 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/2007-toyota-prius-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/2007-toyota-prius-628.jpg <![CDATA[How Sandy (may have) set 17 plug-in hybrids on fire]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/05/how-sandy-may-have-set-17-plug-in-hybrids-on-fire/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/05/how-sandy-may-have-set-17-plug-in-hybrids-on-fire/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/05/how-sandy-may-have-set-17-plug-in-hybrids-on-fire/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Fisker Karma sedans burned at port

Can Hurricane Sandy's flood waters be blamed for the fiery destruction of 16 Fisker Karmas and a Toyota Prius? On Halloween we guessed saltwater had somehow led to a short circuit that overheated the cars' batteries and fire, which may be exactly what happened.

"We can't be certain exactly what happened at the port," Russell Datz, a Fisker spokesman, tells the New York Times Wheels blog. "But we think being submerged in 13 feet of saltwater had something to do with it."

Toyota spokeswoman Cindy Knight tells Wheels that the Prius likely went pyro because "saltwater got into the electrical system." Saltwater, as you probably know, is highly conductive and when it comes into contact with something like an electric car's battery, could cause a short circuit and a fire.

Daniel Abraham, chemical scientist at Argonne National Laboratory, gave the blog a more technical explanation. Salts in the water break into positive and negative ions that act as conductors and could have connected the batteries' positive and negative terminals. Next came a short circuit and then, possibly, a fire.

No one so far thinks the Karma batteries' lithium cores were to blame. Even though lithium will burn on contact with water, the metal used in hybrid batteries is pretty well protected and isn't likely the source of the fires.

So still no official cause of the fires, but an investigation is ongoing.

How Sandy (may have) set 17 plug-in hybrids on fire originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 05 Nov 2012 16:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fiskerfisker karma firehurricane sandyhybrid firekarmakarma firepriusprius firetoyotatoyota prius fireMon, 05 Nov 2012 16:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20370873/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/11/05/how-sandy-may-have-set-17-plug-in-hybrids-on-fire/20370873/article-detail.xml 20370873 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/fisker-karma-port_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/fisker-karma-port.jpg <![CDATA[Toyota looking to alter Prius styling]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/05/toyota-looking-to-alter-prius-styling/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/05/toyota-looking-to-alter-prius-styling/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/05/toyota-looking-to-alter-prius-styling/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Love it or hate it, the Toyota Prius might be the most recognizable car on the road these days with its slippery, wedge-like design. Originally used to optimize aerodynamics, the unique shape of the second-generation Prius quickly made the car an icon, so Toyota kept the same basic look on the latest, third-gen model. According to an interview with Chris Hostetter, group vice president for strategic planning of Toyota Motor Sales USA, in Bloomberg, Toyota might be looking to alter the Prius' signature shape in the name of increasing sales across the model's lineup.

It sounds like a replacement for the current model is still at least a year away, but the next design could be a stark departure from the Prius we know today. While there is no indication as to what direction Toyota could take, the report does rehash the Toyota NS4 Concept sedan that was displayed earlier this year in Detroit. Whatever it looks like, the next Prius will certainly be tasked with not only keeping existing hybrid customers interested but also drawing in new ones as well.

Since growing the Prius to include the Plug-In, C and V, sales have almost doubled this year with 200,114 Prius-branded cars sold in the US through October. Bloomberg says that on a global scale, the four models accounted for almost 700,000 units through September eclipsing the previous Prius record of 509,399 units sold back in 2010. With Toyota expecting the Prius to be its top-selling car by the end of the decade, this recent trend could easily continue upward for the with a more mainstream design.

Toyota looking to alter Prius styling originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 05 Nov 2012 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>designns4 conceptpriustoyotaMon, 05 Nov 2012 14:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20370493/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/11/05/toyota-looking-to-alter-prius-styling/20370493/article-detail.xml 20370493 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/2012-toyota-prius-plug-in-fd_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/2012-toyota-prius-plug-in-fd.jpg <![CDATA[Tekked-Out Prius, Rowdy Camry round out Toyota's SEMA offerings]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/01/tekked-out-prius-rowdy-camry-round-out-toyotas-sema-offerings/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/01/tekked-out-prius-rowdy-camry-round-out-toyotas-sema-offerings/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/01/tekked-out-prius-rowdy-camry-round-out-toyotas-sema-offerings/#commentsFiled under: , ,



From the same Dream Build Challenge that brought the DragQouia to the SEMA Show, NASCAR stars Clint Bowyer and Kyle Busch also got involved with the competition hoping to win $50,000 for their respective charities. Instead of building trucks like their NHRA counterparts, Bowyer had a Prius built for the contest while Busch stuck with a car he's very familiar with, the Camry.

Bowyer's Tekked-Out Prius is probably about as cool-looking as a Prius can get with its lowered stance, custom body kit, side cameras replacing the door mirrors and black-and-blue paint job matching the car's techie persona. Inside is where most of the mods took place with a totally redone interior including new fabrics throughout (including leather and Alcantara) and plenty of cabin tech such as the 17-inch touchscreen computer built into the passenger side of the instrument panel. Bowyer's charity of choice is the Emporia Community Foundation which goes to benefit Bowyer's hometown of Emporia, Kansas.

Named after Busch's apparent alter-ego (Rowdy Burns from Days of Thunder), the Rowdy Camry shows how mean a midsize Toyota can look with styling upgrades like a wide body kit, rear diffuser with integrated exhaust outlets and a ram air hood. The blacked-out Camry also has a lowered suspension and rides on staggered-width 18-inch wheels, and it was was built for the Kurt Busch Foundation. Scroll down for more information about both of these cars.

Continue reading Tekked-Out Prius, Rowdy Camry round out Toyota's SEMA offerings

Tekked-Out Prius, Rowdy Camry round out Toyota's SEMA offerings originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 01 Nov 2012 19:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>camryclint bowyerkyle buschpriusrowdy camrysemasema 2012tekked-out priustoyotaThu, 01 Nov 2012 19:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20368352/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/11/01/tekked-out-prius-rowdy-camry-round-out-toyotas-sema-offerings/20368352/article-detail.xml 20368352 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/000-toyota-prius-tekked-out-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/000-toyota-prius-tekked-out-628.jpg <![CDATA[Autonomous car support subject of political attack ad]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/14/autonomous-car-support-subject-of-political-attack-ad/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/14/autonomous-car-support-subject-of-political-attack-ad/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/14/autonomous-car-support-subject-of-political-attack-ad/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Driverless car political ad in Florida

It's election time and auto bailouts are not the only thing politicians are talking about. Down in Florida, one group has connected a candidate's support for automated car testing to, well, nothing. And that makes him evil.

The Committee to Protect Florida has taken Rep. Jeff Brandes (R-Fla.) to task for proving automated cars did not operate by "witchcraft" instead of working on other things in the St. Petersburg area. The commercial attempts to instill fear in the program and make it sound like these machines are running amok on Florida's streets. (Note the sound effects at the end of the video.)

The attack ad features a Toyota Prius running a stop sign and nearly hitting an older woman using a walker as the narrator goes on about how silly these newfangled machines might be. Then the commercial flashes the question, "Will Driverless cars REALLY stop for pedestrians?"

Maybe. And if they don't, everyone should blame Jeff Brandes.

Scroll down to watch the 30-second spot.

Continue reading Autonomous car support subject of political attack ad

Autonomous car support subject of political attack ad originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 14 Aug 2012 19:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>automated carcampaign addriverlessdriverless carpoliticalpriustoyotaTue, 14 Aug 2012 19:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20300656/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/08/14/autonomous-car-support-subject-of-political-attack-ad/20300656/article-detail.xml 20300656 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/081412-automated-car-becomes-poltical-ad_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/081412-automated-car-becomes-poltical-ad.jpg <![CDATA[These are the best-selling cars in wealthy zip codes]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/09/these-are-the-best-selling-cars-in-wealthy-zip-codes/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/09/these-are-the-best-selling-cars-in-wealthy-zip-codes/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/09/these-are-the-best-selling-cars-in-wealthy-zip-codes/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

2012 Mercedes-Benz E-Class

Perhaps the most frustrating thing about being mired in the 99% is that due to the prevalence of reality-distorting TV and the booming personal security business, we really have no idea what it's like to be Mitt Romney, Donald Trump or one of the Koch brothers. At least in the olden days, we plebs could point and stare, mouths agape as the robber barons rode through city streets in their jewel-encrusted carriages. But today? Good luck catching a glimpse of Trump's platinum-dipped Maybach or the plutonium-burning hovercrafts that the Koch's use to fly to their secret Tea Party Illuminati meetings.

What's that? Rich people buy their cars at dealerships just like we do?

Yep, and according to a new study from TrueCar, Mr. and Mrs. Moneybags don't go in for luxury models nearly as completely as you'd think. TrueCar has released a list of the top 10 most popular cars in the wealthiest zip codes in the U.S. and, shockingly enough, half the vehicles on it are mainstream models from Toyota, Honda and Volkswagen.

As you would expect, a Mercedes-Benz is indeed at the top of the list, but note that it's the E-Class rather than the S-Class. Runner-up was the BMW 3 Series, just ahead of the C-Class. Fourth place went to the Lexus RX, and fifth to the Toyota Prius. Then the real commonplace models take over, with the Volkswagen Jetta in sixth, the Honda CR-V and Accord in seventh and eighth, and the Toyota Camry taking ninth. The BMW X5 wraps up the list in 10th place.

What this tells us is that the rich are clearly not stupid, choosing to buy the same sorts of vehicles that the rest of us do, models with good reputations for quality and value. Either that or they're paying their servants in cars.

Continue reading These are the best-selling cars in wealthy zip codes

These are the best-selling cars in wealthy zip codes originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 09 Aug 2012 10:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3 seriesaccordbmwc-classcamrycr-ve-classhondajettalexusmercedespriusrxtoyotatruecarvolkswagenwealthyx5Thu, 09 Aug 2012 10:45:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20296093/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/08/09/these-are-the-best-selling-cars-in-wealthy-zip-codes/20296093/article-detail.xml 20296093 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/2012-mercedes-benz-e350-fd_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/2012-mercedes-benz-e350-fd.jpg <![CDATA[Toyota Prius Solution: When you're dead, you can't pollute]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/03/toyota-prius-solution-dead-cant-pollute-onion/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/03/toyota-prius-solution-dead-cant-pollute-onion/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/03/toyota-prius-solution-dead-cant-pollute-onion/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

toyota prius solution

Let's make this clear from the get-go: we know this is satire, courtesy of The Onion. Of course, like all good comedy, the idea for the new, fictional Toyota Prius Solution model contains a grain of truth. After all, if you aren't alive, you really can't add to the world's environmental problems any more. Any questions?

Obviously a riff on the whole "Pious" side of the Prius-driver stereotype as well as taking blind environmentalism to its logical extreme, the Prius Solution manages to put a bloody twist on the Prius "family" branding that the automaker has been promoting since early 2010. It's kind of gross, so you've been warned.

That said, anyone who's been punctured backbone-to-sternum also can't work to solve world's environmental problems, but that's a discussion for another time. Enough talk. Check out the video below.

Continue reading Toyota Prius Solution: When you're dead, you can't pollute

Toyota Prius Solution: When you're dead, you can't pollute originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 03 Aug 2012 20:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>priusprius solutionthe oniontoyotatoyota prius solutionFri, 03 Aug 2012 20:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20293162/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/08/03/toyota-prius-solution-dead-cant-pollute-onion/20293162/article-detail.xml 20293162 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/toyota-prius-solution-628_thumbnail.png http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/toyota-prius-solution-628.png <![CDATA[Autoblog Podcast #288]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/26/autoblog-podcast-288/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/26/autoblog-podcast-288/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/26/autoblog-podcast-288/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Tesla Model S, Toyota and BMW partnership, 2013 Chevrolet Malibu pricing, Acura RLX

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Episode #288 of the Autoblog Podcast is here, and this week, Chris and Dan are joined by Test Fleet Manager Steven Ewing to chat about 2013 Chevrolet Malibu pricing, expanding BMW/Toyota partnerships, the Tesla Model S and the Acura RLX. Your questions and comments power the end of the 'cast, and for those of you who hung with us live on our UStream channel, thanks for taking the time. We've embedded our Q&A module after the jump for you to scroll through and follow along, too. Thanks for listening!

Autoblog Podcast #288:



Topics:

In the Autoblog Garage:
2012 Toyota Prius PHEV
2012 Honda CR-V
2013 Hyundai Genesis Coupe 3.8 R-Spec


Hosts: Dan Roth, Chris Shunk, Steven Ewing
Runtime: 01:20:07
Get the podcast
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Email: Podcast at Autoblog dot com

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Continue reading Autoblog Podcast #288

Autoblog Podcast #288 originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 26 Jun 2012 16:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>autoblog podcastautoblog podcast 288cr-vfeaturedgenesis coupemalibumodel spriusprius phevrlxtesla model s sedantoyota bmw partnershipTue, 26 Jun 2012 16:20:00 ESTAutoblog Podcast #288Autoblog01:20:07 http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20266597/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/06/26/autoblog-podcast-288/20266597/article-detail.xml 20266597 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/podcastlivev2stamp_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/podcastlivev2stamp.jpg <![CDATA[<i>Star Wars</i> Prius commercial uses famous droids to sell Toyota's plug-in]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/01/star-wars-prius-commercial-uses-famous-droids-to-sell-toy/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/01/star-wars-prius-commercial-uses-famous-droids-to-sell-toy/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/01/star-wars-prius-commercial-uses-famous-droids-to-sell-toy/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

c3po r2d2 prius plug-in

Help us, plug-in cars, you're our only hope.

In his original deal with Fox for the first Star Wars movie, George Lucas famously kept the licensing rights for himself. That deal - unusual at the time - has resulted in a huge pile of cash for the filmmaker and the ability for his iconic characters to appear on a seriously uncountable pile of merchandise, hawking everything from the 1977 Toyota Celica to today's Volkswagen Passat (to name just two car-related ones). The latest? The space-age Toyota Prius Plug-In.

Like many odd commercial pairings, this one was intended for the Japanese market. Translation of the ad done by friends of Green Car Reports says that everyone's favorite droids keep their know-it-all/ignorance-is-bliss dynamic in full effect. For example, when C-3PO first sees the plug-in hybrid's J1772 connector, he asks R2D2 if it's the little droid's charger. Goldenrod then asks, "You wanna recharge too?" To which R2 replies in his regular beeps and blorts and 3PO says, "Okay, me too!" They then have a discussion about range anxiety, which makes us wonder if Toyota is hinting that the next-gen Prius will come with Twin Ion Engines.

But you want to see this all yourself, right? Go ahead and do so for the next 30 seconds down below.

Continue reading Star Wars Prius commercial uses famous droids to sell Toyota's plug-in

Star Wars Prius commercial uses famous droids to sell Toyota's plug-in originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 01 Jun 2012 14:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>c-3p0c3podroidgeorge lucaspriusprius adprius phevprius plug-inprius plug-in hybridr2-d2r2d2star warstoyotatoyota commercialtoyota priusvideoFri, 01 Jun 2012 14:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20249605/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/06/01/star-wars-prius-commercial-uses-famous-droids-to-sell-toy/20249605/article-detail.xml 20249605 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/c3p0-r2d2-prius-plug-in-2_thumbnail.png http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/c3p0-r2d2-prius-plug-in-2.png <![CDATA[Cars.com calls out <i>Consumer Reports</i> over Toyota Prius C verdict]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/01/cars-com-calls-out-consumer-reports-over-toyota-prius-c-v/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/01/cars-com-calls-out-consumer-reports-over-toyota-prius-c-v/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/01/cars-com-calls-out-consumer-reports-over-toyota-prius-c-v/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2012 Toyota Prius C

Cars.com has evidently taken issue with a Consumer Reports video review featured on Autoblog advising consumers that they would be better off buying a used "regular" Prius instead of a 2012 Prius C.

Consumer Reports shouldn't have passed on recommending the Prius C, Cars.com argues: "CR's low testing scores for the Prius C stand in stark contrast to our impressions of the hybrid."

Indeed. Cars.com gushes over the tiny hybrid, saying it might even pick the C over the regular Prius. Furthermore, in attempt to poke CR just a little more, Cars.com notes that used Prius prices are the highest they've been in six months, so looking for a deal there might not make for smart consumer advice.

In a final twist, Cars.com says it didn't name the Yaris-based C as one of its Best Bets, in part, because it relies on Consumer Reports reliability surveys as one metric to qualify any vehicle as a Best Bet. The 2013 C doesn't have enough data to say how reliable it will ultimately be.

Cars.com calls out Consumer Reports over Toyota Prius C verdict originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 01 Jun 2012 13:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 prius ccars.comconsumer reportspriusprius cvideoFri, 01 Jun 2012 13:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20248791/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/06/01/cars-com-calls-out-consumer-reports-over-toyota-prius-c-v/20248791/article-detail.xml 20248791 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/13-2012-toyota-prius-c-fd-opt-opt1_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/13-2012-toyota-prius-c-fd-opt-opt1.jpg <![CDATA[2013 Toyota Prius C doesn't get much love from <i>Consumer Reports</i>]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/29/2013-toyota-prius-c-doesnt-get-much-love-from-consumer-repor/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/29/2013-toyota-prius-c-doesnt-get-much-love-from-consumer-repor/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/29/2013-toyota-prius-c-doesnt-get-much-love-from-consumer-repor/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Consumer Reports' 2012 Toyota Prius C road test - screencap

Consumer Reports has panned the 2012 Toyota Prius C in a new video review that urges car shoppers to get a used regular Prius over the new baby model, "it's a much better car overall," said Mike Quincy in the review.

The problems Toyota ran into in creating the Prius C appear to be in making it cheaper, according to Consumer Reports. The list of adjectives during the video review included: "lackluster," "hard plastic," "cheap materials," "dead steering" and "slow."

Toyota may see those words as misplaced modifiers compared to the glowing recommendations the larger mainstream Prius has received in its decade-long Synergy drive to becoming the eco-poster child for hypermiling greenies out to save the Earth and ride in California HOV lanes with a single person aboard. (HOV access for most gas-electric hybrids has been discontinued in the Golden State.)

While the Prius C may start at $18,995, its price climbs quickly and its value does not, Consumer Reports said. A new regular Prius starts at $24,000.

However, the bad news from Consumer Reports hasn't hurt Prius C sales, which began in April. During its first month, Toyota sold 4,782 Prius C models, outpacing the other Prius variant, the family-minded Prius V, as well as the subcompact Yaris, which donates its platform for the Prius C.

Scroll down to watch Consumer Reports' full Prius C video review or read more at the source link.

Continue reading 2013 Toyota Prius C doesn't get much love from Consumer Reports

2013 Toyota Prius C doesn't get much love from Consumer Reports originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 29 May 2012 16:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 toyota prius cconsumer reportsgreenpriusprius ctoyotavideoTue, 29 May 2012 16:56:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20246865/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/29/2013-toyota-prius-c-doesnt-get-much-love-from-consumer-repor/20246865/article-detail.xml 20246865 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/2012-toyota-prius-c-consumer-reports-20120529_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/2012-toyota-prius-c-consumer-reports-20120529.jpg <![CDATA[Toyota Prius now third-most-popular car in the world... sort of]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/29/toyota-prius-now-third-most-popular-car-in-the-world-sort-of/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/29/toyota-prius-now-third-most-popular-car-in-the-world-sort-of/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/29/toyota-prius-now-third-most-popular-car-in-the-world-sort-of/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2012 Toyota Prius - front three-quarter view, maroon

Think you're seeing more Toyota Prius models on the road these days? Well, you are.

Automotive News is reporting that all those increased Prius sales in the U.S. and Japan (see here and here and here and here etc.) have turned the Prius into the world's third-best-selling car model for the first three months of 2012. During the first quarter, the Prius sold 247,230 copies around the world. The only cars that sold more during that time were the Toyota Corolla (300,800) and the Ford Focus (277,000).

There's an asterisk on the Prius' figures: much of that new success is due to the fact that there are a brace of new Prius models, namely the C, V and Plug-in - that have expanded the line, with the C being the "car of the moment in Japan," according to Automotive News. Sales in the U.S. were up 42 percent in the first quarter. The new models and the increased sales make up what AN calls a "Prius surge," one that could be capacity constrained in the States. AN writes that the sales pace could reach 250,000 units, but Toyota only has 220,000 units assigned to the market. More vehicles have been ordered, a Toyota exec says, but whether or not they arrive is uncertain. After last year's production issues, though, this is the good kind of problem to have.

Toyota Prius now third-most-popular car in the world... sort of originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 29 May 2012 13:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 toyota priushybrid salespriusprius cprius plug-inprius salesprius vtoyotatoyota priustoyota salesTue, 29 May 2012 13:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20246702/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/29/toyota-prius-now-third-most-popular-car-in-the-world-sort-of/20246702/article-detail.xml 20246702 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/2012-toyota-prius-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/2012-toyota-prius-628.jpg <![CDATA[IIHS crowns three new Top Safety Picks [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/17/iihs-crowns-three-new-top-safety-picks/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/17/iihs-crowns-three-new-top-safety-picks/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/17/iihs-crowns-three-new-top-safety-picks/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,



The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety has crowned two sedans and a hatchback as Top Safety Picks: the 2013 Chevrolet Malibe Eco, 2012 Hyundai Azera and 2012 Toyota Prius c. The redesigned 2013 Malibu joins its 2012 model-mate as a Top Pick, and the 2013 earned a good side impact rating even without its optional side airbags.

The Prius c also has siblings that have won the award, the Prius and Prius v. The Azera had been rated in a few earlier tests, but in completing the testing regime with good marks all 'round it earned the accolade. The Top Pick moniker is given to vehicles that score "Good" in the IIHS's front, side, rollover and rear-impact tests.

Have a look below for video of the Malibu and Prius c going through their side-impact exams.

Continue reading IIHS crowns three new Top Safety Picks [w/video]

IIHS crowns three new Top Safety Picks [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 17 May 2012 09:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 hyundai azera2012 toyota prius c2013 chevrolet malibu2013 chevrolet malibu ecoazerachevrolethyundaiiihsInsurance Institute for Highway Safetymalibupriusprius cTop Safety PicktoyotaThu, 17 May 2012 09:27:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20239069/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/17/iihs-crowns-three-new-top-safety-picks/20239069/article-detail.xml 20239069 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/malibuecoiihs_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/malibuecoiihs.jpg -1 2