Details about two of the most popular members of the Toyota lineup were recently announced for the 2012 model year, with the automaker releasing information about MSRPs and upgrades to the Toyota Prius and Toyota RAV4.

Toyota’s best-selling hybrid, the Prius, receives a fairly deep refresh for 2012. On the base model, designers introduced a restyled front fascia, revised tail lamps, nifty new 15-inch wheel covers, LED daytime running lamps, and some notable increases in standard content, too. The biggest change? The addition of Toyota’s Display Audio sound system, boasting a big 6.1-inch screen, USB port, Bluetooth functionality for hands-free calling and music streaming, and more. Uplevel Prius models share the same design enhancements and now feature Toyota’s Entune connectivity and infotainment setup, navigation, a rearview camera system, an eight-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, and, on the Prius Four and Fiv, a high-efficiency, eight-speaker JBL GreenEdge sound system.

Many options are available as well, including the Prius’ first head-up display, which projects key vehicle information onto the windshield in front of the driver, helping to eliminate the need to take his/her eyes off the road.

The starting price of the 2012 Toyota Prius—expected to go on sale in January—is $23,015 for the entry version. It’s a fairly moderate change that reflects Toyota’s decision to hold cost increases to 2 to 4.3 percent depending on the model.

And the price of admission to the RAV4 family advances by an even smaller amount. The base MSRP of the entry model is now $22,650, reflecting an increase of .8 percent; all other models see price bumps of less than that, with the RAV4 Limited benefiting from a .5 percent reduction in its MSRP. Despite this, all RAV4 models get a new audio system that includes—as a standard feature—Bluetooth wireless technology for hands-free calling/online music streaming.

The automaker’s Display Audio sound system is available as well on the RAV4 Limited, and features both Entune and navigation. Toyota also will continue to offer both two- and four-wheel-drive powertrains in the RAV4, along with the only third-row seating in its class.

The 2012 Toyota RAV4 is on sale now.

Building on a proven track record of sales success in this country, the 2012 Toyota RAV4 and 2012 Toyota 4Runner will receive minor changes for the new model year, but the news should be of major interest to audiophiles: Both versatile Toyotas receive notably upgraded audio options, including, on some models, the automaker’s innovative Entune services.

For the RAV4, long among the country’s most popular crossovers, all 2012 models will pack a revised sound system that now includes standard Bluetooth technology, enabling features like hands-free phone capabilities, phone book access and wireless music streaming. The RAV4 Limited also will offer Toyota’s new display audio setup, which includes a navigation system, complimentary 90-day subscription to XM Satellite Radio, HD Radio with iTunes tagging, text-to-voice functionality and the Entune suite of connectivity services.

The latter allows drivers to synch their smart-phones to the vehicle using either Bluetooth technology or a USB cable, and then provides easy access to a comprehensive collection of top mobile apps and data services, including:

• Pandora Internet radio
•  The Bing search engine
•  iHeartRadio
• MovieTickets.com
• OpenTable
• Up-to-date information about local fuel prices, sports scores, stock quotes, traffic and weather
• Entune also incorporates a sophisticated voice-recognition program and, perhaps best of all, access to most of those apps and services is complimentary for three full years.

The 4Runner body-on-frame SUV, which already included a trial XM subscription and Bluetooth compatibility across all models, adds the display audio system—including Entune—as a standard feature on Limited models and as an option on other trim levels. Automatic running boards are new options on the 2012 4Runner SR5 and Trail models, too.

For more information about the 2012 Toyota RAV4 and 4Runner, talk to you local Toyota dealer today.

Leveraging a recent investment of $147 million that also created some 240 new jobs here in the U.S., the latest addition to Toyota’s engine facility in Huntsville, Ala., is now operational. Notably, the start of this expanded production came in the same year in which Toyota Motor Manufacturing Alabama (TMMAL) is celebrating a decade of manufacturing success.

“Toyota has been a reliable and dedicated partner in strengthening relationships with the Alabama communities where their associates live and work,” said Alabama Governor Robert Bentley. “Now, ten years later, TMMAL has made a major economic impact in this region. TMMAL is an enduring, reliable and dedicated partner in building healthy communities in Alabama which can, in turn, strengthen our nation and our world.”

The added jobs and investment at TMMAL are being used to build the fuel-efficient four-cylinder engines used in American-made vehicles like the Toyota Camry, Highlander, RAV4, Sienna and Venza. In addition, the plant also builds V6 and V8 engines for the Toyota Tundra and Tacoma pickups, along with the Toyota Sequoia SUV. Which makes the plant the only Toyota facility in the world currently building all three engines.

“TMMAL’s team members’ focus on quality, safety and outstanding commitment to continuous improvement and team work is second-to-none,” said Toyota Motor Corporation Executive Vice President and Representative Director Atsushi Niimi. “Engines now produced in Huntsville will go into eight Toyota models assembled in North America, furthering our commitment to localizing production. And by adding four-cylinder engines to TMMAL’s mix, we will be better prepared to react to changes in market demand.”

As Toyota continues to develop high-efficiency transportation solutions for U.S. drivers, the automaker recently marked a number of key milestones in support of its electric vehicle (EV) programs

First, Toyota confirmed that the all-electric model of the RAV4 crossover, designed in conjunction with noted EV maker Tesla, will be produced at the same facility now manufacturing the standard RAV4 in Woodstock, Ontario, Canada. (Tesla will build the electric powertrains, including battery, motor, gearbox and power electronics, at its plant in Palo Alto, Calif., then ship them to the Woodstock facility for final assembly.) The RAV4 EV is expected to have an all-electric, emissions-free driving range of about 100 miles and go on sale to the general public in 2012.

“The Tesla-Toyota joint development team has agreed that building the vehicle at the Woodstock plant on the same line as the gasoline-powered RAV4, will streamline and simplify the production process and guarantee the highest level of quality control,” said Ray Tanguay, chairman of Toyota’s Canadian operations. “This is a great example of Toyota’s determination to collaborate with companies with leading-edge technology.”

Toyota also announced that it had approved Leviton as an official electrical vehicle supply equipment (EVSE) solutions provider. In this role, Leviton will offer charging units for both customers and Toyota dealerships, as well as help manage a certified installation team and an extensive customer service center for the automaker.

“Through our relationship with Leviton, customers will have access to a full-service EVSE provider that supplies a high level of customer service along with products that integrate easily into their homes and complement Toyota’s plug-in hybrid and electric vehicle offerings,” said Rick LoFaso, Toyota Motor Sales’ corporate manager of passenger-car marketing.

Which brings up an important point: According to Toyota Madison, the Leviton technology is compatible with the 2012 Toyota Prius Plug-in as well as the RAV4 EV. The Prius Plug-in—also slated to go on sale to the public next year—will be capable of approximately 13 miles of driving on pure electricity alone. Then, if its battery is depleted, the vehicle can go hundreds of more miles while relying on the same kind of hybrid technology that powers the standard Prius, delivering the same stellar EPA numbers. Recharging can take as little as 1.5 hours with a 220-volt charging unit or about 3 hours using a standard 110-volt outlet.

Consider it another example of how Toyota is charging into the future by bringing new technology to the market today.

According to a Los Alamos, New Mexico used Toyota dealer, Toyota is preparing to launch an all-electric version of its popular RAV4 crossover vehicle. In lieu of developing the electric drivetrain in-house, Toyota partnered with EV sports car maker Tesla. In return, Telsa will learn valuable knowledge about manufacturing from Toyota.

Easton, MD used Toyota dealer confirms the RAV4 EV is still just a prototype. AutoWeek had the opportunity to climb behind the wheel. Generally, the RAV4 EV was found to be quick off the line with a top speed of about 100 miles per hour. Innovative packaging of the batteries allowed Toyota to keep the luggage space unencumbered in back. Like the standard RAV4, there’s still plenty of room for five.

AutoWeek did note that that regenerative braking was a bit too aggressive, and it slowed down the car almost as soon as they lifted their feet off of the accelerator. But, Toyota promises that this will be dialed in on the production model.

To see the all-new RAV4 EV prototype in action, check out the video below.

Tesla has officially forged a $60 million deal with Toyota to develop electric powertrain components for a battery-powered RAV4. Boston Toyota Dealers said that testing of a RAV4 EV has already begun, and Tesla will officially supply components such as the battery, power electronics module, electric motor, gearbox and software for the production version of this new electrified crossover.

According to the filing with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission:

On October 6, 2010, Tesla Motors, Inc. (“Tesla”) entered into a Phase 1 Contract Services Agreement (the “Agreement”) with Toyota Motor Corporation (“TMC”) for the development of a validated powertrain system, including a battery, power electronics module, motor, gearbox and associated software, which will be integrated into an electric vehicle version of the RAV4. Pursuant to the Agreement, based on preliminary specifications, TMC will pay Tesla approximately $60 million for the development services to be provided by Tesla. The parties will mutually agree to the final specifications, deliverables and payment amounts and schedule within 60 days of the execution of the Agreement. This amount will be paid in various installments during the term of the Agreement.

With components from Tesla secured, the RAV4 EV should be ready to hit showrooms as early as 2012. Since testing of the vehicle has already commenced, a glimpse of the RAV4 EV prototype may also be available at the L.A. Auto Show in November.

* * *

Read more Ford news on this blog. Subscribe for the latest.

Recently, Toyota and Tesla execs announced that two EV prototypes were being jointly developed. It has now been confirmed that one of these prototypes, which feature EV drivetrains from Tesla and Toyota platforms, will include a RAV4 model that could be production ready by 2012.

The two prototypes are being worked on by Tesla and will be delivered to Toyota by the end of the month. Toyota reportedly plans to test both prototypes rigorously to ensure the vehicles are performing to Toyota’s standards.

“With an aim to market the EV in the United States in 2012, prototypes will be made combining the Toyota RAV4 model with a Tesla electric powertrain. Tesla plans to produce and deliver a fleet of prototypes to Toyota for evaluation within this year. The first prototype has already been built and is now undergoing testing,” said Toyota in a statement.

If the electrified RAV4 model becomes a reality, it will be the second RAV4 to feature an electric drivetrain. The original EV debuted in the late 1990s and was available for lease, but many units were eventually sold and about 800 are still in use today. Aside from the original RAV4 EV, Toyota has naturally become synonymous with hybrid technology and this new partnership with Tesla promises to push the development eco-friendly technology even further.

Toyota added, “TMC has, since its foundation in 1937, operated under the philosophy of “contributing to society through the manufacture of automobiles,” and made cars that satisfy its many customers around the world. TMC introduced the first-generation Prius hybrid vehicle in 1997. The company also plans to introduce EVs into the market by 2012.”

* * *
Follow the latest Toyota news right here on this blog.

Toyota has been consumed by negative press lately, but that doesn’t mean their vehicles have lost their competitive edge. The Toyota RAV4 in particular has remained one of the most successful compact crossovers since its introduction in the mid 1990s and continues to dominate the segment that it helped establish.

Wanting to continue its segment leadership, Toyota recently debuted the 2011 RAV4 ahead of the 2010 Geneva Motor Show. With its freshened design, wider stance, and more luxurious accommodations, the 2011 Toyota RAV4 is more sophisticated than ever before.

Interior design has dramatically improved, with higher quality seating surfaces and even more available features, including Toyota’s Easy Flat seating system for to make loading cargo even easier. While the improvements to the 2011 RAV4 have provided a more sophisticated look and feel, it’s important to note that Toyota has retained the RAV4’s renowned practicality and functionality.

If you ask any Toyota Dealer Bloomington, they’ll tell you that the RAV4 is a solid compact crossover offering – and it truly is. But the slew of new crossovers on the market keep competition heated. Honda Ball sees the CR-V in much the same light, where it’s high-value option for consumers, but lacks the glitz of newer models coming down the pipeline, such as the Nissan Juke. That’s why any update and infusion of sophistication to the RAV4 is a welcomed addition.

The updated 2011 Toyota RAV4 will head to US showrooms later this year. Find additional photos and details below.

* * *

Read more Toyota news on this blog. Subscribe now for updates.

When it was launched back in 1994, the Toyota RAV4 essentially started the compact crossover segment. For those who didn’t want or couldn’t afford a large, bulky SUV, the Toyota RAV4 provided the flexibility many car buyers were after in a compact package. Since the RAV4’s launch, it has grown in price, size, and power, but it still provides an attractive package that has helped it remain a strong seller.

After years of competitors springing up to take on the RAV4, Toyota decided to take a dramatically different route with the latest model. The third-generation, which was initially released in 2006, is larger than ever before, with the availability of third row seating, which was desired by Tustin Toyota visitors and many consumers who wanted more space in a small package. The current Toyota RAV4 is also more powerful, as it now offers a powerful V6 engine option.

Despite being larger and heavier, the Toyota RAV4 remains as fun to drive as the original if not more so. This is aided by Toyota’s use of advanced systems such as an automatic limited-slip differential, electronic on-demand 4WD, hill start assist, and downhill assist control. Toyota Monroe believes that all of these systems coupled with the RAV4′s suspension and chassis provide the RAV4 with amazing traction and comfort on road or off.

Powering the Toyota RAV4 is the base 2.5-liter four cylinder engine which produces 179 horsepower and 172 lb ft of torque. Buyers can also opt for the powerful 3.5-liter V6 engine that delivers an impressive 269 horsepower and 246 lb ft of toque. The available V6 power increase was what drew in many new buyers to Los Angeles Toyota dealers following the third generation redesign. Engines are mated to either a four-speed automatic or a smooth shifting five-speed auto.

With an EPA estimated 19 mpg city and 27 mpg on the highway, the Toyota RAV4 is certainly not a gas guzzler, yet can still haul ample cargo and passengers with ease. With features such as XM satellite radio, Bluetooth connectivity, and even a DVD navigation system, the Toyota RAV4 has options and accessories that make it highly customizable to the specific features a driver may be interested in.

It’s no surprise why the Toyota RAV4 remains a popular model for growing families according to Toyota Albuquerque. With the versatility, security, and comfort that the RAV4 delivers to the driver and passengers, the RAV4 will likely continue its role as the ideal family hauler. Plus, with outstanding reliability and strong residual resale values, the Toyota RAV4 is still a great value when compared with many of its competitors.

* * *

For a full review of the new Toyota RAV4 and much more, look to Toyota in the News.