The roar of engines, the smell of burning rubber, the adrenaline rush of victory – Toyota’s racing heritage is woven into its very DNA. For decades, Toyota has pushed the boundaries of performance on some of the world’s most challenging circuits, and the lessons learned on the track directly translate into the vehicles you drive today.

A Legacy of Innovation:

• Early Victories: From humble beginnings in the 1950s with the iconic Toyopet Crown, Toyota quickly established itself as a force to be reckoned with. Victories in grueling rallies like the East African Safari Rally cemented their reputation for reliability and performance.

• Le Mans Domination: Toyota’s pinnacle achievement came in 2018 with a historic win at the 24 Hours of Le Mans, the world’s most prestigious endurance race. This groundbreaking victory, achieved with a hybrid powertrain, showcased Toyota’s commitment to sustainable performance.

• WRC Champions: For four consecutive years (2017-2020), Toyota reigned supreme in the World Rally Championship, proving their prowess in handling diverse and demanding terrain.

Technology Transfer – From Track to Street:

Toyota’s racing victories aren’t just trophies; they’re testaments to cutting-edge technology. Developed and tested under extreme conditions, these innovations trickle down to their production vehicles, offering you:

• Enhanced Handling: Advanced suspension systems honed on the track translate to sharper handling and a more responsive driving experience in your Toyota.
• Lightweight Materials: Technologies developed for reducing race car weight find their way into your car, improving fuel efficiency and performance.
• Hybrid Power: Toyota’s pioneering hybrid technology, perfected on the racetrack, delivers exceptional fuel economy and reduced emissions in their hybrid production cars.

The Thrill of the Drive:

Owning a Toyota is more than just owning a car; it’s owning a piece of racing history. Every time you get behind the wheel, you can feel the legacy of innovation and performance coursing through the veins of your vehicle. So, whether you’re cruising down the highway or navigating city streets, remember: the spirit of the racetrack lives on in your Toyota, waiting to be unleashed.

Explore Further:

• Visit the Toyota Gazoo Racing website to delve deeper into their racing heritage and current motorsport endeavors.
• Take a test drive in a Toyota and experience the thrill of performance firsthand.
• Share your own stories and experiences about how your Toyota embodies the spirit of racing heritage.

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Your Toyota, whether a daily commuter or weekend warrior, relies on its suspension for a smooth, comfortable, and safe driving experience. But even the best factory setup can benefit from some tweaking, depending on your specific needs and desired driving characteristics. Here are some tips and tricks to enhance your Toyota’s suspension, categorized by their impact:

1. Maintenance Matters:

Before diving into modifications, remember that regular maintenance is key. Follow your Toyota’s recommended service schedule, replace worn-out components like shocks and struts promptly, and ensure proper alignment for optimal performance and longevity.

2. Subtle Improvements:

For a gradual enhancement without major changes, consider:

• Upgraded Sway Bars: Thicker sway bars reduce body roll during cornering, improving handling without sacrificing ride comfort.
• Performance Springs: Slightly stiffer springs can sharpen steering response and reduce body lean, offering a sportier feel without compromising ride quality.
• High-Performance Bushings: Replacing worn-out bushings with performance-oriented equivalents tightens steering response and improves overall handling precision.

3. Off-Road Ready:

For conquering tougher terrains, explore:

• Lift Kits: Increase ground clearance for tackling obstacles and uneven surfaces. Choose a moderate lift (2-3 inches) to maintain balanced handling.
• Off-Road Shocks and Struts: Specifically designed for off-road use, these offer improved damping and articulation for smoother rides over rough terrain.
• All-Terrain Tires: Swap street tires for aggressive all-terrain or mud-terrain tires with deeper treads for superior traction and grip on loose surfaces.

4. Track Focused:

For maximum performance on the track, consider:

• Coilover Suspension: Offers adjustability for ride height, spring rate, and damping, allowing you to fine-tune your suspension for specific track conditions.
• Performance Sway Bars and End Links: Thicker sway bars and stronger end links minimize body roll and improve handling under high cornering forces.
• Track-Ready Tires: High-performance tires with sticky compounds provide exceptional grip and responsiveness on the track, but wear out faster on regular roads.

Remember:

• Prioritize Safety: Any modification, especially those impacting suspension, should prioritize safety and maintain your vehicle’s handling characteristics.
• Seek Professional Help: Complex modifications like lift kits and coilover conversions are best left to experienced mechanics familiar with your Toyota model.
• Legal Compliance: Ensure upgrades comply with local regulations regarding lift height, tire size, and modifications that may alter your vehicle’s emissions profile.

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Your Toyota sports car is a precision machine, built to deliver exhilarating performance and handling. But to truly unleash its potential, you need the right tires. The right performance tires can make a world of difference in terms of grip, handling, responsiveness, and overall driving experience.

But with so many options on the market, how do you choose the best tires for your Toyota sports car? Here’s a guide to help you narrow down your choices and find the perfect set of rubber for your needs:

Consider Your Driving Conditions:

• Mostly highway driving: If you spend most of your time cruising on the highway, you’ll want tires that offer a good balance of performance and comfort. All-season performance tires like the Michelin Pilot Sport 4 S or Continental Extreme Contact Sport are great options.

• Daily commuting: If you do a mix of highway and city driving, you’ll need tires that can handle a variety of conditions. All-season performance tires are still a good option, but you might also consider summer performance tires like the Bridgestone Potenza RE-71RS for even better grip in dry weather.

• Occasional track days: If you like to take your car to the track occasionally, you’ll need high-performance tires that can handle the heat and abuse. Track-focused tires like the Yokohama ADVAN Apex V601 are the ultimate in performance, but they’re not street-legal and have a very short tread life.

Think About Your Priorities:

• Maximum grip: If you prioritize grip above all else, summer performance tires are the way to go. However, they won’t be as good in wet weather and have a shorter tread life.
• Dry weather performance: If you mostly drive in dry conditions, summer performance tires will give you the best handling and responsiveness.
• Wet weather performance: If you drive in a lot of rain or snow, all-season performance tires are a better choice. They offer good grip in both wet and dry conditions, but they won’t be as grippy as summer tires in dry weather.
• Tread life: If you want tires that will last a long time, look for all-season performance tires with a high treadwear rating. However, tires with a higher treadwear rating may not offer the same level of performance as tires with a lower treadwear rating.

Budget:

Performance tires can range in price from around $100 per tire to over $500 per tire. It’s important to set a budget before you start shopping so you don’t overspend.

Here are some of the most popular and highly-rated performance tires for Toyota sports cars, along with their strengths and weaknesses:

All-Season Performance Tires:

• Michelin Pilot Sport 4 S: Excellent dry and wet weather grip, comfortable ride, but expensive.
• Continental ExtremeContact Sport: Good grip and handling, long tread life, but not as quiet as some other options.
• Hankook Ventus S1 Evo3: Good value-for-money option, good grip in both dry and wet weather, but not as responsive as some other options.

Summer Performance Tires:

• Bridgestone Potenza RE-71RS: Exceptional dry weather grip and handling, not as good in wet weather, short tread life.
• Yokohama ADVAN A052: Similar performance to the RE-71RS, but slightly less expensive.

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While “fine-tuning” your Toyota can be tempting, it’s crucial to remember that modifications, especially those impacting engine performance, can have legal and safety implications. It’s essential to prioritize safety, legal compliance, and responsible practices over potentially risky modifications.

Safe and Responsible Performance Enhancements:

Instead of delving into engine modifications, here are some safe and responsible ways to optimize your Toyota’s performance:

Maintenance & Optimization:

• Regular Maintenance: The most impactful performance improvement often comes from meticulous maintenance. Follow your Toyota’s recommended service schedule, using high-quality fluids and genuine parts.
• Performance Air Filters: Upgrade to high-performance air filters that allow better airflow while maintaining proper filtration. Choose brands with good reputations and ensure compatibility with your specific model.
• Spark Plugs & Ignition System: Ensure your spark plugs and ignition system are functioning optimally. Replacing them with high-performance equivalents within manufacturer specifications can improve engine response and efficiency.
• Lightweight Components: Consider replacing heavier components like wheels with lighter alternatives for improved acceleration and handling. Ensure chosen parts maintain safety standards and fit your vehicle properly.

Professional Guidance:

• Professional Consultations: Seek advice from qualified mechanics or performance shops familiar with your Toyota model and its potential for safe and legal modifications. They can tailor recommendations based on your driving habits and goals.
• Official Toyota Performance Parts: Explore manufacturer-backed performance parts like TRD packages or official Toyota accessories designed for your specific model. These options offer enhanced performance while maintaining warranty coverage.

Additional Tips:

• Prioritize Safety: Always prioritize safety over any performance gains. Ensure modifications don’t compromise your vehicle’s safety features or handling characteristics.
• Legal Compliance: Research and adhere to local emission and safety regulations to avoid legal repercussions. Modifications shouldn’t alter your vehicle’s emissions profile beyond legal limits.
• Warranty: Understand that engine modifications, even minor ones, can void your warranty. Consider the potential consequences before proceeding.

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So you’ve got the Toyota, the thirst for adventure, and now you’re looking to elevate your off-road experience. Here’s a guide to essential modifications, categorized by their impact, to transform your Toyota into a trail-blazing beast:

Protection & Durability:

• Skid Plates: Shield your undercarriage from rocks and debris with steel or aluminum skid plates for the engine, differential, and transfer case.
• Running Boards: These not only aid entry and exit, but also protect your door sills and rocker panels from trail hazards. Choose wider options for additional side protection.
• Mud Flaps: Prevent mud and rock spray from damaging your paint and undercarriage, especially important for frequent off-road excursions.

Capability & Performance:

• Suspension Lift Kit: Gain ground clearance for tackling steeper inclines and uneven terrain. Opt for a moderate lift (2-3 inches) to maintain balanced handling.
• All-Terrain

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While modifying your car can be exciting, it’s important to remember that modifying a vehicle, especially when it comes to performance upgrades like turbocharging, can have legal and safety implications. It’s crucial to thoroughly research and understand the potential risks and responsibilities before proceeding.

Therefore, instead of providing a guide to directly turbocharging your Toyota, I’d like to offer some safer and more responsible alternatives for enhancing your vehicle’s performance:

Official Toyota Performance Parts:

• Many Toyota models offer manufacturer-backed performance parts that enhance power, handling, and aesthetics while maintaining warranty coverage. Explore options like TRD performance packages or official Toyota accessories tailored to your specific model.

Professional Performance Upgrades:

• Consider seeking professional installation of performance upgrades from reputable shops specializing in your Toyota model. They can advise on safe and legal modifications, ensuring proper integration and avoiding potential mechanical issues.

Alternative Performance Improvements:

• Explore performance-oriented tires, upgraded braking systems, or suspension components that enhance handling and responsiveness without altering the engine’s core functionality.
• Consider lighter-weight wheels or aerodynamic modifications to improve acceleration and fuel efficiency.

Remember:

• Safety First: Always prioritize safety when considering any performance modifications. Ensure upgrades comply with local regulations and don’t compromise your vehicle’s safety features.
• Warranty: Modifying your engine can void your warranty. Understand the potential consequences before proceeding.
• Professional Guidance: Seek advice from qualified mechanics or performance shops familiar with your Toyota model and its upgrade potential.
• Legal Compliance: Ensure any modifications adhere to local emission and safety regulations to avoid legal repercussions.

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The Pacific Northwest, with its stunning landscapes, rich history, and diverse ecosystems, offers a treasure trove of educational experiences waiting to be discovered. Buckle up your Toyota and hit the road with your family for an unforgettable journey that combines exploration, knowledge, and lasting memories.

Nature’s Classroom:

• Olympic National Park: Hike through old-growth forests, marvel at cascading waterfalls, and learn about the unique biodiversity of this temperate rainforest. Junior Ranger programs make park exploration interactive and exciting for kids.
• Mount Rainier National Park: Hike to glaciers, explore wildflower meadows, and discover the volcanic history of this iconic peak. Junior Ranger programs introduce fascinating park facts and encourage responsible stewardship.
• Oregon Coast Aquarium: Immerse yourselves in the underwater world of the Pacific Ocean. Discover tide pools, touch marine life, and learn about ocean conservation efforts. Interactive exhibits and educational shows make science engaging for all ages.

History Comes Alive:

• Lewis & Clark National Historical Park: Trace the footsteps of these intrepid explorers, visit reconstructed forts, and learn about their interactions with Native American tribes. Junior Ranger activities bring history to life.
• Fort Clatsop National Memorial: Step back in time to 1805-1806 and explore the winter encampment of Lewis and Clark. Interactive exhibits and guided tours paint a vivid picture of their historic journey.
• Portland Saturday Market: Immerse yourselves in the vibrant arts and crafts scene of Portland. Browse handmade goods from local artisans, learn about different artistic techniques, and support local businesses.

Cultural Exploration:

• Burke Museum of Natural History and Culture: Journey through time and explore the diverse cultures of the Pacific Northwest. Interactive exhibits showcase Native American artifacts, dinosaur fossils, and regional ecosystems.
• Seattle Art Museum: Spark your creativity at this renowned museum. Explore diverse art collections, participate in family-friendly workshops, and learn about different artistic styles and movements.
• Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP): Immerse yourselves in the world of popular culture, from music and science fiction to video games and fashion. Interactive exhibits, special events, and educational programs cater to all ages and interests.

Tips for a Smooth Ride:

• Plan your route: Choose destinations that align with your family’s interests and learning goals. Utilize resources like the National Park Service website and state tourism boards for inspiration.
• Pack age-appropriate activities: Keep kids engaged with educational games, books, and scavenger hunts related to your destinations.
• Make learning interactive: Encourage questions, discussions, and observations throughout your trip. Turn car rides into learning opportunities by singing educational songs, playing guessing games, or recounting interesting facts.
• Embrace spontaneity: Be open to exploring unexpected detours and hidden gems along the way. Sometimes, the most memorable learning experiences happen outside the planned itinerary.

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Let’s face it, parents: keeping a car clean with little ones onboard can feel like an uphill battle against a relentless tide of crumbs, mud, and mystery sticky substances. But fear not, weary warriors! With a few strategic moves and a healthy dose of teamwork, your Toyota can once again become a haven of sparkling surfaces and fresh-smelling upholstery.

Preparation is Key:

• Invest in the essentials: Stock up on seat covers, floor mats, and a handy car trash can. Choose washable or easily replaceable options for maximum convenience.
• Establish ground rules: Set clear expectations about eating, drinking, and using toys in the car. Consider offering rewards for good behavior and consequences for messes.
• Organize like a pro: Utilize storage solutions like organizers, mesh pockets, and hanging backseat trays to keep toys, books, and snacks contained.

Conquer the Cleaning Routine:

• Embrace the daily wipe-down: Keep disinfectant wipes and microfiber cloths handy to address spills and crumbs as they happen. A quick wipe-down after each trip makes a big difference.
• Weekly vacuum blitz: Schedule a weekly vacuuming session, targeting carpets, seats, and floor mats. Consider a handheld vacuum for quick cleanups between washes.
• Monthly deep clean: Dedicate a monthly deep clean to tackle dust buildup, hidden messes, and neglected corners. Utilize specialized cleaning products for upholstery, dashboards, and windows.

Pro Tips for Extra Sparkle:

• Utilize the power of baking soda: This handy ingredient tackles odors and absorbs spills. Sprinkle it on carpets, seats, or floor mats, leave it for an hour, and then vacuum.
• Befriend the car wash: Regular car washes remove built-up dirt and grime, keeping your car looking sharp and preventing long-term damage. Consider touchless washes for extra convenience.
• Enlist the family: Make cleaning a family activity! Turn it into a game or assign small tasks to each member. Teamwork makes the clean dream work!

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At Toyota, we understand that mobility is freedom, and we believe everyone deserves the opportunity to experience the joy of adventure. That’s why we offer a range of accessible Toyota models designed to meet the diverse needs of families with special needs.

Understanding Your Needs:

Before exploring specific models, consider your family’s unique needs. Key factors include:

• Type of wheelchair or mobility device: Will you need a ramp, lift, hand controls, or other adaptations?
• Passenger needs: How many additional passengers will you typically transport?
• Budget: Consider the costs of the vehicle, potential customizations, and ongoing maintenance.

Toyota’s Commitment to Accessibility:

Toyota offers various resources to help families find the perfect accessible vehicle:

• Toyota Mobility website: Browse through detailed information on available models, financing options, and conversion partners.
• Trained mobility specialists: Our dealerships have knowledgeable staff to answer questions and guide you through the process.
• Financial assistance: Toyota Mobility Assistance program offers financial reimbursement for qualifying adaptive equipment purchases or vehicle conversions.

Accessible Toyota Models to Consider:

Minivans:

• Sienna: This popular minivan offers several wheelchair-accessible conversion options, including rear or side-entry ramps and lowered floors.
• Highlander: Featuring spacious interiors and available all-wheel drive, the Highlander provides versatility for active families. Consider aftermarket adaptations for enhanced accessibility.

SUVs:

• RAV4: With its compact size and available hybrid option, the RAV4 offers accessibility alongside fuel efficiency. Explore aftermarket lift options for wheelchair access.
• Sequoia: This full-size SUV boasts ample space for passengers and cargo, making it ideal for larger families. Conversion options include rear or side-entry ramps and lowered floors.

Sedans:

• Camry: With its spacious interior and comfortable ride, the Camry offers a sedan option for those seeking accessibility features like hand controls or swivel seats. Explore aftermarket adaptations for specific needs.

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At Gresham Toyota, we believe that every driver deserves to feel confident and safe behind the wheel, especially our newest drivers – teenagers. Stepping into the driver’s seat for the first time is an exciting milestone, but it also comes with a big responsibility. That’s why Toyota is committed to supporting both teens and parents in navigating this crucial learning period.

Understanding the Risks:

Teens are statistically more likely to be involved in car accidents than other age groups. This is due to a combination of factors, including:

• Limited driving experience: Teens are still developing their spatial awareness, reaction times, and decision-making skills on the road.
• Distractions: From cell phones to music, tempting distractions abound, especially for tech-savvy teens.
• Peer pressure: The desire to impress friends can lead to risky driving behaviors.

Toyota’s Commitment to Safety:

Toyota prioritizes teen driver safety with a multi-pronged approach:

• Advanced safety features: Many Toyota models come equipped with advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) like lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind spot monitoring, providing an extra layer of protection.
• Toyota Driving Expectations program: This free program offers hands-on experience in a controlled environment, teaching teens essential defensive driving skills and the dangers of distracted driving.
• Parental resources: Toyota provides valuable resources for parents, including tips for setting driving rules, practicing with their teens, and maintaining open communication.

Tips for Parents and Teens:

• Start early: Talk to your teen about driving expectations and road safety well before they get their permit.
• Lead by example: Demonstrate safe driving habits yourself and avoid using your phone while driving.
• Practice, practice, practice: Enroll your teen in a drivers’ education program and provide additional supervised practice in various driving conditions.
• Set clear rules: Establish and enforce clear expectations regarding phone use, passenger limits, and curfew times.
• Communicate openly: Maintain open communication about driving challenges and encourage your teen to ask questions.

Together, we can create a safer driving environment for everyone. By working together, parents, teens, and Toyota can ensure that our newest drivers hit the road with the knowledge, skills, and support they need to navigate the road responsibly and safely.

Visit Gresham Toyota today:

Learn more about Toyota’s safety features and teen driver resources. Talk to our knowledgeable sales team about vehicles equipped with ADAS systems and discuss how we can help you find the perfect car for your teen driver.

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