New Year's is Here: Westboro Toyota's Look Back at 2011 and the Road Ahead for 2012

Happy New Year everyone! The ball hasn’t dropped yet, but with New Year’s Eve less than 24 hours away, Westboro Toyota knows the excitement is building and that in about 36 hours we’ll bid adieu to 2011 and welcome in 2012 with a bang.

With New Year’s upon us, it’s that time of year again: to reflect on where we’ve been and set our sights on the horizon ahead.

2011 was a great year for us here at Westboro Toyota and for Toyota in general.

• We welcomed new Priuses to the family – the Prius V, the Prius C, which is set to hit the showroom in 2012, and the Prius Plug-In Hybrid, joined the third generation Prius’ fam.

• Toyota earned more accolades from Vincentric's 7th Annual Best Value in America awards, which rate vehicles based on cost of ownership according to factors including depreciation, fuel, insurance, opportunity cost, financing, maintenance, taxes and state fees, and repairs, for the 2011 model year, in total capturing 10 awards to lead all auto manufacturers!

• The all-new 2012 Toyota Camry, with a sleek redesign, rolled onto the showroom floor, making the 2012 Camry the seventh generation inception of America’s most beloved sedan.

• As we do every year, Westboro Toyota ran a number of great promotions for our customers – from Toyotathon, with $0 down, $0 maintenance fees, and 0% financing to Dunkin Donuts gift cards for booking service online, to deals galore on service.

For 2012, Westboro Toyota’s New Year’s resolution is to continue offering exceptional service and deals for our customers. You’ll still get live pricing on our new Toyota vehicles, and be sure to regularly check our website for deals on Toyota-certified and certified-pre-owned vehicles, too.

2012 is going to be an exciting year for us. We’ve already showed you the brand-new redesigned Camry, and very soon the Prius C will be making its debut here.

Welcome 2012, and to all of your customers, may you have a happy, healthy and prosperous New Year!

Westboro Toyota’s Last-Minute Gift-Giving Ideas!

Hanukkah is here and Christmas is just days away. If you’re not done with your shopping—and we must admit, we’ve got a few last-minutes goodies we still need to pick up—why not consider giving the gift of great service!

At Westboro Toyota, we offer gift cards that can be used toward vehicle service, including routine maintenance like oil changes and tune ups, to car detailing and remote starters.

Right now we’re running some great specials to keep those winter “sleds” of yours in tip-top shape, like $59.95 for cabin air filter replacement, $50 off (per axle) on brake work, and a $34.95 quick oil filter change. Visit Westboro Toyota to download the coupons to cash in on these and more great deals. Plus, you’ll get a free $10 Dunkin Donuts gift card when you schedule your factory-recommended maintenance online, and did we mention that we've also got a Meet or Beat coupon, as in we'll match or beat an local Toyota dealerships' service coupons!

And, if you’re in the market to buy a gift card, give us a call at 508.621.2224 or stop by our showroom. And happy holidays everyone!

Tweet, Tweet! Toyota’s Shareathon Going on Now—Your Chance to Bank up to $1,000 on a Prepaid Debit Card

Right now, Toyota Shareathon is going on. That means for the second year in a row, you can earn up to $1,000 on a prepaid debit card just for tweeting about your plans to buy a new Toyota. Not too shabby!

Here’s how it works:

1) Register online now through Dec. 21 at Toyota;

2) tweet a scripted Shareathon message; and

3) buy or lease a new Toyota on or before Jan. 3, 2012.

Follow those three steps and you’ll be eligible for a $500 prepaid debit card. Plus, Toyota Shareathon is offering an additional reward of up to $500. For every retweet your post gets in the 48 hours following your tweet, you’ll earn $50 up to $500, so you could bank up to $1,000 on that prepaid debit card! That’s all for just giving a shout out about the fabulous new Toyota you’re about to buy or lease. Oh, and your followers who retweet your message will be entered to win a 2011 Prius, hello!!

There is a slight catch: Certificates for the prepaid debit cards are available to the first 140 individuals who sign up on each day of the program. Best bet—log on at 11 am EST when the registration for each day begins to snag your reward certificate. Also, once you buy your new Toyota (and we hope that you’ll do that right here at Westboro Toyota), you need to show proof of your unique coupon code and the VIN for your new vehicle to receive the prepaid debit card by Jan. 31, 2012.

So, let’s recap:

Sign up now through Dec. 21 for Shareathon (don’t forget: you must be one of the first 140 registrants for the day to earn your $500 prepaid debit card certificate);

• tweet to your heart’s content about the super cool Toyota you’re about to buy (maybe it’s a Rav 4, a Tundra, a Camry or a Prius Hybrid – the list of great Toyota vehicles goes on);

• come down to Westboro Toyota now through Jan. 3 to purchase your new vehicle (just a reminder, too, Toyotathon is going on right now and that means we’ve got a slew of brand-new 2011 and 2012 models, from the Camry, the Prius, the Venza, the Corolla, the Avalon, the FJ Cruiser, the 4 Runner, the Highlander, the Tundra, the Tacoma, the Sienna, the Matrix and the Rav 4, available with $0 down, $0 maintenance fees, and 0% financing!); and

• reap the reward a brand-new Toyota has to offer you for 2012 and the reward of a free $500 (or up to a $1,000) prepaid debit card!

Toyotathon going on now at Westboro Toyota!

It’s the most wonderful time of the year. That’s right…It’s Toyotathon here at Westboro Toyota!

Come down to check out a slew of brand-new 2011 and 2012 models, from the Camry, the Prius, the Venza, the Corolla, the Avalon, the FJ Cruiser, the 4 Runner, the Highlander, the Tundra, the Tacoma, the Sienna, the Matrix and the Rav 4, which you are available $0 down, $0 maintenance fees, and 0% financing.

We’re pretty sure not even Santa can deliver deals like these from the North Pole. Check these out:

2011 Prius II for only $22,341 – you’ve just got to check out the car with the highest EPA fuel economy of any vehicle; it gets 51/48 mpg, which we know would give Rudolph and the rest of the reindeer gang a ride for their money! (auto model #; 1223; stk #34484)

2012 Prius V III for just $27,223 – get a load of this dashing hybrid, which, too, gets a whopping 51/48 mpg. (model #1245; stk #38888)

2011 Corolla LE for just $15,874 – a 1.8L, 4-cyl automatic engine that gets 28/35 mpg—sugar plum sweetness! (auto model #1838; stk #34941)

2012 Camry LE for only $20,588 – a 6-speed automatic featuring a 2.5L, 4-cyl engine: talk about an affordable mid-size sedan for your whole family of elves!(auto model #2532, stk #34822)

2011 Rav4 4x4 for just $22,267 – a 2.5L 4-cyl engine, 4-speed automatic—oh what fun it is to ride in this awesome (compact SUV) sleigh, hey! (auto model #4432; stk #34985)

2012 Highlander 4x4 with third row for only $30,153 – check out this, the most dependable midsize multi-activity vehicle for the three years in a row–ho, ho, ho and way we go! It’s a 3.5L, V6 5-speed automatic, too. (auto model #6948; stk #34474)

2011 Venza AWD for just $25,347 – it’s got the highest possible frontal and side crash test ratings in its class; makes sense that it was the IIHS’ Top Safety Pick for 2011. Also, Intellichoice has called it a best bet for retaining its value. Way safer than Santa's sleigh! (auto model #2820; stk #34958)

And this is just the tip of the Toyotathon iceberg! Check out our live pricing on these and other top-selling vehicles, like the Toyota Tundra, Tacoma, Sienna, Avalon and Matrix. Why not give yourself the gift of a brand-new Toyota this holiday season!

Congratulations Toyota Prius: You’re 2012’s Best Green Car to Buy

That’s the title the Toyota Prius has been awarded by GreenCarReports.com, and with 2011 practically in the rear-view mirror, 2012 is indeed shaping up to be a big year for Prius.

In naming the Toyota Prius the Best Green Car to Buy for 2012, GreenCarReports reviewers took into account the fleet of Prius’ new technologies, their practicality and their environmental impact, using TheCarConnection’s ratings to help them evaluate the eligible vehicles—all mass-marketed, environmentally conscious vehicles priced under $60,000.

Stop by Westboro Toyota to check out the new Prius line, which recently expanded to become a family of four: from the third-generation Prius liftback, the Prius v, the Prius Plug-in Hybrid and the Prius c.

The new Prius v provides a perfect marriage for a mid-size (it’s super versatile with more cargo space than 80 percent of small SUVs on the road today and has got the fuel efficiency everyone’s come to love with the Toyota Prius). And, the Prius Plug-In Hybrid also gets some of the best gas mileage on the market today!

The Prius Liftback isn’t too shabby, either—it gets an EPA-estimated 50 mpg combined (51 city mpg/ 48 highway mpg) rating.

For those looking to really push the gas consumption envelope, you've gotta check out the Prius Plug-in Hybrid. With seating for five, this car is expected to achieve a 87 MPGe (miles per gallon equivalent) in combined driving and 49 MPG in hybrid mode!

Looking for a youthful subcompact vehicle that gets exceptional gas mileage? Then, the Prius c may be for you. It gets better than 50 mpg in the city—the highest city mpg of any non-plug-in vehicle, Plus, the Prius c provides a spirited, peppy and technologically infused ride.

The Prius c and the Prius Plug-in should be hitting the showroom floor in Spring 2012, and we can’t wait! We've also got many Prius models in stock right now. Check out our live pricing on those.

Congrats again Toyota Prius. And congrats, too, to all of you Prius owners out there. Share with us what you love best about your Toyota Prius!

Westboro Toyota's Black Sale Now Through End of Month: Way Better than a One-Day Black Friday Extravaganza!

Can you believe Black Friday is almost here? Talk about a fall that went by at warp speed with the punch and power of a Toyota Tundra! Seems like forever ago that we were digging out from and powering back up following the October Nor’Easter. What’s the forecast for this long weekend? Temps in the high 60s at last check: We’ll take it! Maybe we have good ’ol Tom Turkey to thank for the fair-weather November temperatures that are blanketing the New England these days.

Speaking of Tom Turkey, it’s time for all of us to reflect on what we’re most thankful for—it’s also time for some of the best deals of the year. Nothing says tradition like polishing off a 25-pound bird with all the fixings and the pie—oh the pie!—and settling in for a day of parades and football on the high-def big screen, and waking up at the crack of dawn the day after for the shopping extravaganza of the year.

We know that Black Friday, as fun and steeped in tradition as it may be, can be a stressful day—whether you’re shopping for a gift or shopping for yourself. How can you fit in all the places you need to get to for the rock-bottom deals you just gotta get in on? That’s one of the reasons we offer competitive live pricing all year long. And, this Thanksgiving season we’re not just having a Black Friday sale: We’re pulling out all the stops with our Toyota Black Sale, which is going on now through the end of the month and features $0 down, 0% financing (for qualified buyers) and $0 maintenance fees.

Stop by on your way home from work tomorrow – we sure hope you’re taking a half-day and beating the pre-Thanksgiving traffic rush! Or, come on down on Black Friday, all weekend long or early next week to check out the great deals Westboro Toyota is offering right now on brand new Toyotas – from the Avalon, the Camry, the Rav4, the Tacoma, the Prius, the Highlander, the Matrix, the Sienna, the 4Runner, the Tundra, the Corolla, the FJ Cruiser, the Sequoia and the Venza.

And, have a happy and safe Thanksgiving Holiday everyone!

Best Resale Value: Just One More Reason to Buy a Toyota

When you’re buying a new car, resale value might not be at the forefront of your mind. But, knowing just how well a vehicle will do on the resale front is very important.

The bad news is that vehicles generally depreciate in value—that’s a fact we can’t ignore. But, there’s plenty of good news for Toyota owners! Recently, Toyota was named the top brand for Kelley Blue Book’s 2012 Best Resale Value Awards. The awards are based on projections from the Kelley Blue Book® Official Residual Value Guide, which is determined by a skilled staff of automotive analysts. The projections are based on current vehicle data, sales data, market conditions for each vehicle, competition within vehicle segments, expectations of the future economy and the combined experience of Kelley Blue Book’s residual analysts.

Here at Westboro Toyota, we can’t say we’re all that surprised. We’ve known all along that seeing our customers drive away in a brand-new or certified pre-owned Toyota makes sound financial sense.

Want some examples? Well, we got ’em:

The Toyota Camry has been the best-selling car in America nine years in row, and for the past 13 years, it’s taken top honors for best resale value for a mid-size sedan!

The Toyota Tacoma compact pickup truck and FJ Cruiser mid-size sport utility vehicle (SUV) were also named Best Resale Value award winners in their respective vehicle categories this year. They were also among the top 10 vehicles for best resale value—nice going Tacoma and FJ Cruiser!

The bottom line: The awards honor vehicles expected to maintain the greatest proportion of their original list price after five years of ownership. So what are you waiting for? Get in here and peruse our wide selection of reasonably priced new and certified pre-owned Toyotas. Can’t go wrong knowing that if you decide to sell or trade-in your Toyota in the first five years you’ll be poised to get top dollar!

And before we sign off for the day, we thought it bears mention that Westboro Toyota makes it super easy for you to appraise your vehicle. Why not get your free trade-in value report from Kelley Blue Book today?

Turn Up the Volume! 2012 Toyota Corolla Includes Audio Upgrades Worthy of Making the Top 40

Westboro Toyota thought 2011 was a big year for the Corolla when many refreshing styling enhancements were made, but Toyota has not disappointed in delivering new features for 2012 that are sure to please loyal Corolla owners and those who haven’t owned one before but are seeking an affordable, reliable, and comfortable ride—and who doesn’t want that?!

The new 2012 Toyota Corolla drives home the beloved model’s commitment to value. In the base L grade model, you’ll find color-keyed power side mirrors, power windows with driver’s auto-down, power door locks and remote keyless entry. Opt for the LE grade and you’ll be riding in style on 16-inch wheels and enjoying steering wheel audio controls. Go with the S model and you’ll see a double-stitched accent to the seats.

Amped Up Audio Technology Standard With 2012 LE & S Models

Here’s where the new Corolla really pumps up the volume, though. The 2012 Toyota LE and S grades come with a standard audio system featuring an AM/FM/CD player, including MP3/WMA playback, a USB port that enables iPod® connectivity, and an auxiliary jack to accommodate other music players. Drivers will also enjoy the Bluetooth® hands-free phone capability and audio streaming. Best of all, auto-sound leveling adjusts the volume in response to ambient noise.

Of course we can’t talk about the 2012 Corolla without mentioned the Toyota Star Safety System, featuring Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Traction Control (TRAC), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist. The Corolla also is equipped with standard Smart Stop Technology brake-override system, plus it comes with a two-year/25,000-mile Toyota Care complimentary maintenance plan—can’t beat that!

Stop by Westboro Toyota to check out the all-new 2012 Toyota Corolla. Better yet, take one out for a test drive. With this week’s spring-like temperatures (and boy do we deserve the warm weather reprieve after that Oct. 29 Nor’Easter that buried us in snow and wreaked havoc on our power grids), it’s a great time to take a spin with the windows down and the tunes cranking, so you can see for yourself the quality of the new audio system in the LE and S models.

Westboro Toyota Wants to See Local Teen Win $20,000 Prize for Their Safe-Driving Tips!

Attention parents with high-school (driving age) kids: $20,000 is up for grabs for an award-winning video demonstrating safe-driving tips!

If you’re got kids who are about to get their driver’s licenses or have just passed the Registry of Motor Vehicles test, congratulations to them, and to you for instilling in them safe-driving techniques and for educating them on the rules of the road.

Learning how to and actually driving safely is priceless, but now there’s also a $20,000 purse that’s up for grabs for a teen driver who can demonstrate just how safe a driver they are.

Toyota is going to award $20,000 to a high school student who demonstrates how he or she would encourage safe driving among his or her peers. The Toyota Teen Driver Video Challenge gives kids the chance to create a unique two-minute video on how they avoid distractions so they stay safe behind the wheel.

Toyota, in partnership with Discovery Education, which produces and distributes high-quality digital resources in easy-to-use formats in all core-curricular subject areas, will award one lucky (and well-spoken teen who’s got a positive and unique message) with a $20,000 grand prize. Ten finalists’ videos will appear on Toyota Teen Driver and Toyota’s corresponding Facebook page when fans can vote for their favorite to determine the first-place winner. The two-minute video, which will be judged on the creativity expressed in the video and the uniqueness of the content, is due to Toyota Teen Driver by Feb. 16, 2012.

The top place finisher isn’t the only one to take home a prize. Each of the remaining nine finalists will each receive $1,500. Not to shabby for showing a commitment to safe driving!

If you’ve got kids in grades 9 through 12—or you have friends or family members with kids in those grades—spread the word! Wouldn’t it be great if tons of teens from the Metrowest area submitted their videos?

Attention local law enforcement officers and educators, too: The first-place winner will also get a free Toyota Driving Expectations event for their community, a program designed by Toyota to help young drivers develop safe driving habits through a unique combination of interactive hands-on sessions and behind-the-wheel defensive driving exercises. He or she will also receive a virtual driving simulator that his or her school can keep and a $5,000 grant to help implement their action plan at their school. The second-place winner will also be awarded a virtual driving simulator for their school to keep and a $1,500 grant.

Please spread the word through your local community about these great benefits that are available with the winning submission! And, tell everyone you know to like Westboro Toyota on Facebook and to follow Westboro Toyota on Twitter – as you know we regularly provide updates there on super cool contests like this one, special service, maintenance, and financing deals and live pricing available at our dealership, plus other news you can always use!

Don’t forget, too, that when your teen is ready for his or her own set of wheels, come down to Westboro Toyota. We’ve got a slew of reliable and safe pre-owned and brand-new Toyota vehicles to fit your budget.

Trick or Treat: Westboro Toyota’s Got Deals Galore for Your Goody Bag This Halloween

Happy Halloween everyone! OK, so we’re a few days early, but it’s never too early to play what we like to call Westboro Toyota’s Trick or Treat Game. Ready? Here we go:

Trick or treat? You can buy a brand new 2011 Prius II, which has the highest EPA rated fuel economy of any vehicle for just $22,541.

Treat! Stop by Westboro Toyota to check out our best-selling brand of hybrid vehicles so you can learn for yourself what all the environmentally friendly buzz is about, and even take this fuel-efficient goody out for a test drive if you'd like! (VVT-i Model #1223, stk #34467)

Trick or treat? You can buy a brand new, 3.5L, V6, 6-speed automatic Toyota Camry XLE for $5,034 off the msrp that gets 22/33 mpg.

Treat! Drive off in the best selling car in America, which by the way has got the highest possible frontal and side crash test ratings in its class. (Model # 2554, stk # 34142)

Trick or treat? You can lease a brand-new, 4 cylinder, 4-speed automatic Toyota Corolla LE that gets 28/35 mpg for as little as $229 per month with $0 down and 0% financing if you qualify.

Treat! And what a great one at that—the sales tax and dealer fees are already rolled into the monthly payment on this the best-selling car of all time. (Model # 1838, stk 34689)

Trick or treat? You can get an oil change plus a free tire rotation and a 21-point inspection for the low, low price of $34.95.

Treat! You guessed it! We aim to please with our service and our prices. Cost may be a bit more depending on the Toyota model and if synthetic oil is used. Just be sure to print your coupon, which cannot be combined with another offer, and present it when the service order is written. Visit Westboro Toyota to download this deal now!

Trick or treat? You’ll get a free $10 Dunkin Donuts gift card when you schedule your factory recommended maintenance online.

Treat! Get a cup of joe, a box of donuts or munchkins, maybe even a pumpkin muffin, on us when you book your service using Westboro Toyota’s Online Service Scheduler (applicable for 5K, 15K and 30K intervals).

Trick or treat? Westboro Toyota will slash 50 bucks off brake work per axle on your Toyota model.

Treat! You’re getting the hang of this! Just be sure to print your coupon, which cannot be combined with another offer, and present it when the service order is written. Visit Westboro Toyota to download this deal now!

Trick or treat? You can purchase a new car battery for your Toyota for as little as $59.95 plus tax.

Treat! Plus, we’ll throw in a free battery test and service. Just be sure to print your coupon, which cannot be combined with another offer, and present it when the service order is written. Visit Westboro Toyota to download this deal now!

So this Halloween, why not stop by Westboro Toyota for a treat of your own!

Brand-New 2012 Toyota Prius v Coming Soon to Westboro Toyota!

It’s almost here: the day when the brand-new 2012 Toyota Prius v shipment will arrive, and Westboro Toyota can’t wait to show off the new Prius v hatchback to you!

This is an especially exciting time because it’s the first time the Prius v will roll onto the showroom floor—it’s the newest member of the Prius family and we’re so happy to welcome it with open arms!

Got an active lifestyle and need room for the whole family? No problem! The Prius v has oodles of cargo space—heck, it’s got more cargo room than 80 percent of small SUVs on the market today, wow!

Equipped with Toyota’s Hybrid Synergy Drive, the Prius v wins in the fuel-economy department, too—getting 42 mpg (combined city and highway). It’s got the highest fuel efficiency of any crossover, SUV or wagon on the market today—now that’s superb.

The Prius v comes in three models, the Two, the Three and the Five. No matter which Prius v you buy, you’ll be surrounded by a wealth of standard comfort and convenience. Some of its notable gadgets include:

• a new 6.1-inch Display Audio system with integrated backup camera;

• Bluetooth® and USB port;

• 16-inch alloy wheels with wheel covers;

• single-dial climate control, EV/ECO/Power modes;

• driver door Smart Key System;

• instrument panel with driver feedback that displays Toyota’s Star Safety System™ (this includes the Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA), Enhanced Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Traction Control (TRAC) and Smart Stop Technology);

• 60/40 split sliding and reclining rear seat; and

• comfortable driver seating with power lumbar support and much more.

With the Prius v Three you’ll get the Entune1™ multimedia system, which includes SiriusXM™ Satellite Radio with a 90-day trial subscription, HD Radio® with iTunes® Tagging and text-to-speech with programmed and customizable test responses.

If you opt for the Prius v Five, you’ll enjoy SofTex-trimmed seats, three-door Smart key, 17-inch alloy wheels, LED headlamps, fog lamps and more.

Pricing on the Prius v Two is priced around $26,000, and the Prius v Five tops out around $30,000. With gas prices back on the rise, isn't it time for you to consider the all-new Prius v?

Take an Elegant and Comfortable Ride in the Apple of Toyota’s Eye

Avalon—a word with Welsh origin meaning apple. And here we are, smack dab in the middle of apple-picking season. That said, we thought it was a perfect time to give you a sneak peek at the all-new 2012 Toyota Avalon, which will be here in our Westboro Toyota showroom before you know it.

The 2012 Toyota Avalon will take you for a luxurious, elegant and comfortable ride. You may recall that 2011 brought about a redesign for the beloved Avalon, and this year’s design remains sleek, offering a unique combination of full-size room with understated luxury.

The 2012 Toyota Avalon is balanced in performance and fuel economy. With a 268-horsepower V6 engine and a six-speed automatic transmission, it's got impressive acceleration power and great fuel-burning results, with an EPA highway estimate of 29 MPG. It’s even certified as an Ultra Low Emission Vehicle! So, in addition to riding in luxury, you’ll be doing your part to treat the environment kindly.

The Avalon is a standout for its class, with two grades available: Avalon and Avalon Limited. No matter which grade you select, you’ll be treated to a leather-trimmed interior, eight-way power driver’s seat, back-up camera, dual zone automatic climate control with air filtration, moon roof and 17-inch alloy wheels.

The Avalon Limited also features heated and cooled front seats, an eight-way front passenger’s seat with lumbar support, driver’s seat cushion extension, rain-sensing windshield wipers and Smart Key. If music is your thing, consider upgrading to a JBL Synthesis sound system—which is sure to delight the most discerning music lover.

Definitely plan on stopping in soon once the 2012 Toyota Avalon hits our showroom floor. We’ll bet you’ll be impressed by its spaciousness and amenities, all details that enhance the driving experience and passenger comfort. Some notable attributes that all of you techies will appreciate include:

• Bluetooth® hands-free phone and music streaming technology to the audio system from a compatible device;

• SiriusXM® satellite radio capability (with a 90-day trial subscription to SiriusXM Select Package);

• a nine-speaker audio system offering excellent sound quality (the Avalon Limited grade features a standard 12-speaker, 660-watt JBL Premium Synthesis audio system with enhanced two-coil sub-woofer); and

• USB and 1/8-inch auxiliary connections for iPod®.

Don’t forget to check out the DVD navigation system, too, which features easy search and address input functionality. There’s a new display for road icons and points of interest, as well as a keyboard screen arranged in the same way as a personal computer.

The 2012 Avalon also features a rear-view monitor function that includes on-screen back-up guides that help you back into parking spaces or driveways.

There are many color and trim choices from which to choose as well. For the exterior, you can choose from Zephyr Blue Metallic, Cypress Pearl, Sizzling Crimson Mica, Cocoa Bean Metallic, Blizzard Pearl, Classic Silver Metallic, Magnetic Gray Metallic, Black and Sandy Beach Metallic. With the Avalon grade you get the choose among three leather-trimmed interior colors: ivory, light gray and black. If you opt for the Limited grade, black Bordeaux is an option, as well as ivory and light gray.

Yup, this is one polished apple that we’re proud to call a member of Toyota's fleet of high-quality vehicles!

New Season, New Beginnings!

Isn’t it great when something’s fresh, like a brand-new Toyota that rolls off Westboro Toyota’s lot for the first time!

New represents a beginning, a start, a promise, a dream. Last year around this time, die-hard Boston Bruins fans were probably wishing their beloved team would achieve what seemed impossible. But, come June the team had in fact exceeded everyone’s expectations by taking home the Stanley Cup—a dream the team and its fans chased for nearly 40 years.

Last night, our Stanley Cup-winning Bruins hoisted their championship flag to the rafters, so we can forever be reminded of the players’ great achievement last spring. While we’ll forever be proud of the team’s dedication and drive to win the Stanley Cup, after all the pomp and circumstance was done it was time to get down to the business of opening a new chapter.

So what if the Bruins lost 2-1 in the home opener against the Philadelphia Flyers? That doesn’t matter. Last night was all about celebrating the past as well as the new season—a new beginning. Here at Westboro Toyota, we’re all about celebrating new things, too.

Did you know we’re the new sponsor for the Shrewsbury Youth Hockey Learn to Play Hockey Program? Best of luck young skaters with your new season on the ice!

And those of you who regularly read our blog (and we hope that’s all of you!) know that we recently celebrated the release of the all-new redesigned 2012 Toyota Camry. Talk about a great car. It’s sleek, it’s modern, and it’s right here at 271 Turnpike Rd (Route 9 West in Westboro) for all of you to check out.

The redesigned 2012 Camry isn’t the only thing new. Sure, we’ve always offered competitive pricing, but did you know that right now you can buy a brand-new Toyota 2011 Corolla LE (Auto Model # 1838, stk 34654) for as little as $239 a month—that includes dealer fees and the sales tax! Also new at Westboro Toyota, you can get a $10 Dunkin Donuts gift card just for scheduling your factory-scheduled maintenance. Visit our website for details on these deals and more.

When Columbus sailed the ocean blue in 1492 he for sure had his sights set on a new and exciting horizon. With the Columbus Day weekend upon us, what new thing are you looking forward to? Visit us on Facebook to share your thoughts with us.

And, have a happy and safe Columbus Day weekend everyone!

7th Generation Toyota Camry Hits Westboro Toyota Showroom Floor

Westboro Toyota is pleased to report that we’ve got several brand-new 2012 Toyota Camrys in stock! Things are abuzz here in the showroom as you can probably imagine. After all, this is the first opportunity for many folks to get up close and personal with the newly redesigned, seventh generation Camry.

The design may be new, but certain things remain constant: The 2012 Camry continues Toyota’s longstanding tradition of being a reliable, high-performance vehicle that’s got tremendous value.

We’ve currently got several 2012 Toyota Camry LE and SE models in stock. All are four-door automatics featuring a 4-cylinder engine with a 2.5 L displacement. They get competitive gas mileage: 25 mpg city and 35 mpg highway. Currently, we’ve got 2012 Camrys in stock in SuperWhite, Black, Attitude Black Metallic, Magnetic Gray Metallic and Classic Silver Metallic—giving you a lot of options to choose from.

Stop by our showroom at 271 Turnpike Road (Route 9 West) in Westboro to get all your questions about the all-new Camry answered and to test drive one so you can see for yourself what makes this, the seventh generation Toyota Camry, so special.

Cast Your Vote for Which Nonprofit Deserves Toyota's Support

During the Sunday Night Football halftime show on Sept. 25, Toyota will air its “Halftime Hand Off: A Rally for Causes” on NBC. Toyota will award $150,000 to deserving sports-related non-profit organizations based on a public vote.

We’re proud that Toyota is carrying on the philanthropic spirit of its “100 Cars for Good and Ideas for Good” programs, both community efforts designed to aid organizations that use sports as a vehicle for change. In partnership with Causes.com, Toyota will pre-select eligible non-profit organizations to participate in the program. Each week, four organizations will be profiled on Toyota’s Facebook page and fans can vote for the charity they feel is most deserving of support. The organization receiving the most votes each week will receive a $10,000 donation from Toyota. They also will be featured during the following week’s halftime show segment.

Don't neglect to cast your votes for deserving non-professional sports associations and sports-related charities.

Westboro Toyota knows firsthand just how important community support is, especially for youth-based sports programs. We’re a proud sponsor of the Starhawks Youth Hockey Team, and we’d like to take this opportunity to give a special shout out to our team: We wish you, your coaches, and your families all the best this season. Skate hard, play fair, and have fun!

It Bears Mention: Prius Is a Crowd Favorite

… And by crowd we’re not limiting our discussion to humans! How could we after news broke last week about a family vacationing in Lake Tahoe, California, that awoke to find an 800-pound bear inside their 2002 Toyota Prius.

The bear, who apparently clawed his way into the vehicle, must have become panicked, because he started honking the horn and thrashing around in an attempt to make a gracious exit—our guess, he realized there wasn’t any food in the vehicle and decided to move on in search of another “fast food” outlet. Insistent on getting out, the bear moved the gear shift into neutral, causing the vehicle to roll down a hill and into a neighbor’s lawn.

Interestingly, none of the Prius’ windows were harmed during the bear’s escapade, which one can only surmise means this isn’t the first time the bear was breaking and entering. Can Westboro Toyota really blame him, though: The Toyota Prius is the most popular hybrid in America. Maybe he just wanted to see what all the buzz is about.

Turns out, too, this isn’t the only bear with an affinity for Toyotas. Last summer, a brown bear found his way into a Toyota Corolla. Black or brown, these bears deep down must be green. After all, the Prius and the Corolla are both efficient gas-consuming machines in their own right!

What Effect Has Your Toyota Camry Had on You?

Thirty years ago Toyota introduced the Camry. Since then 9 million drivers have made it a part of their lives. If you’re one of the 6.8 million people in the United States who owns a Toyota Camry today, you know firsthand that it’s roomy, comfortable, and dependable, so much so that it’s been named the best-selling car in the country year after year. Statistics are great, but Westboro Toyota knows what really counts is what your Camry means to you.

We’re proud to announce the launch of Camry Effect, an online forum where you can tell your story, upload photos of you and your Camry, post videos, and share information and experiences with other Camry lovers. You’ll also get the chance to participate in Toyota surveys. Accessing Camry Effect is a snap—just log in through your Facebook or Google gmail account and you’re good to go.

Each Toyota Camry owner has got a story, and Westboro Toyota wants to hear yours—from those first dates and the late-night snack runs to those unforgettable, once-in-a-lifetime family trips…whatever your destination, we’re inviting you to share with us, and the world, your journey on Camry Effect.

Give it a spin!

Back to school means back to safety basics

Happy September! It’s not officially fall yet, but given the cool breeze that blew through following Tropical Storm Irene, it sure did feel like it. Yup, excursions to the apple orchards are within our sights with Labor Day, the unofficial end of summer, just days away.

Another sure sign that the dog days of summer will soon be a speck in the rear-view is that large, bright, yellow thing on the horizon. No, not talking about the big ’ol sun in the sky. It’s all of those school buses that are back on the roads for the 2011-12 school year that’s got us thinking.

What’s on our mind? Why safety, of course. From little ones, teens and all those tweens in between, this week students of all ages are getting back to the academic grind. That means it’s especially important to mind the speed limit and pay extra close attention to those flashing school bus lights. Even when no bus is around, kids could dart out into traffic, so be at the ready to apply those brakes as needed.

Your brakes are arguably the most important mechanical part of your vehicle. What are some sure signs it could be time for new ones? If you hear squealing or squeaking get it checked. Also, if you feel a pulsating sensation when you apply them that could be a sign that the rotors need attention. And, if you need to push your foot very close to the floor to get your vehicle to slow down, don’t ignore that symptom, which is a very serious sign that your brakes are in need of repair.

Normal wear and tear is to be expected and replacement of your brake pads is inevitable. The frequency of the pad replacement depends on a number of factors, including your driving habits. If you commute in bumper-to-bumper traffic regularly you may need to replace the brake pads more frequently than someone who primarily cruises on the highway during non-peak hours.

When you bring your vehicle in to be serviced at Westboro Toyota, we will assess just how “healthy” your brakes are. Don’t forget that you can book your appointments online – it’s fast and it’s simple.

Smart Stop Technology

Westboro Toyota is pleased to report that Toyota is the first full-line manufacturer to offer Smart Stop Technology (SST) as standard equipment in all 2011 Toyota models. SST, an advanced braking technology, reduces engine power when both pedals are pressed at the same time under certain conditions. SST intervenes when the accelerator is depressed first and the brakes are applied firmly for longer than one-half second at speeds greater than five miles per hour.

With normal driving conditions, SST isn’t noticeable. But, when you’re parked or stopped on a hill it is. It doesn’t engage if the brake pedal is depressed before the accelerator pedal, which allows a vehicle starting on a steep hill to safely accelerate without rolling backward. That’s peace of mind we can all use.

So, with the start of the school year now underway, remember: Get those brakes checked. And, exercise those defensive driving skills especially in the morning and afternoon when the kids are piling on and off the school bus. And, have a safe Happy Labor Day weekend!

Are you ‘entune’?

Did you know that when you purchase select Toyota models, like the 2012 Camry Hybrid XLE, you’ll get three years of complimentary access to mobile applications and services that most smartphones offer?

With Entune™, drivers’ ability to access their favorite mobile apps is just a click away. Simply connect the smartphone to the wireless, voice-recognition software, and you can be in tune with many favorite mobile apps, like Bing, iHeartRadio, OpenTable ®, MovieTickets.com, and Pandora. Users can also “entertune” themselves by accessing sports scores, getting updates on how their stocks are doing, checking traffic delays and weather, and comparing fuel prices.

This “infotainment” gadget is worth checking out once select 2012 models hit the Westboro Toyota showroom floor soon.

Only four more days until the all-new 2012 Toyota Camry is unveiled!

Westboro Toyota is super ecstatic to announce that the brand-new, redesigned 2012 Toyota Camry will be unveiled in less than a week!

It’s a first-of-its-kind reveal that Toyota Motor Corp. is undertaking, with a presentation you can view live via the Web at 1 p.m. EDT on Aug. 23. On that day, visit Toyota to participate in this unique event.

Following the unveiling, Bob Carter, group vice president and general manager for Toyota Division, will be hosting a TweetChat via Twitter at 4 p.m. EDT so you’ll have the opportunity to ask questions about the newly designed Camry (use Twitter hashtag #CamryLive to pose questions during the TweetChat).

And, of course, we'd love to have you come down here to Westboro Toyota to find out just what the 2012 Camry has to offer. The all-new 2012 Camry and Camry Hybrid are set to hit our showroom this fall and we can’t wait: They’re loaded with technologically advanced features, contemporary designs inside and out, improved performance and fuel efficiency and refined ride and handling.

‘Backseat Driver’ app puts kids in the driver’s seat for roadway entertainment

Those of you who regularly read our blog or visit our website know that Westboro Toyota is all about technology – putting Live Pricing, online service and maintenance scheduling and Kelley Blue Book appraisals, to name a few, at your fingertips. We strive to make your buying and servicing experiences a smooth ride and now Toyota Motor Corp.’s ToyToyota is giving your passengers a creative way to enjoy their ride, too!

A new ToyToyota iPhone app lets kids simulate the driving experience from the backseat of your Camry, Pruis, Corolla, Rav 4, or other Toyota model. “Backseat Driver” gives iPhone users the chance to steer their vehicle (called “My Car”) clear of another one (called “Papa Car”), which uses the iPhone’s GPS functionality to mimic the route mom and dad are really taking in the front seat. Keeping a safe distant from Papa Car isn’t the only object of the game. Users also try and catch icons associated with the real-life landmarks they’re passing by. With the points earned from catching those icons, players can cash in to customize their cars. Players also can share their car designs and the routes they’ve traveled on Twitter.

And, while we’re on the subject of cars and kids, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s Child Passenger Safety Week will take place September 18 – 24. Visit NHTSA for dates and locations in our area when certified child passenger safety technicians will be on hand to inspect car seats and provide hands-on advice free of charge.

Blue Is the Color of Money on Your Trade-In!

Want to know how much green you can get for your trade-in? Check out Westboro Toyota’s Kelley Blue Book interactive tool. The process is simple, you just need to:

1) Identify your vehicle by year, make, model and trim;

2) plug in your mileage and zip code;

3) select which options your vehicle comes with and its current condition; and

4) provide your contact information so we can get your customized trade-in report out to you right away.

Kelley Blue Book is the trusted source for prices, values and expert and consumer reviews on new and used cars. Before buying or selling your next car, use our Kelley Blue Book tool to find out what your car is worth and what’s a reasonable price to expect for any new or certified used car or truck you’re thinking about buying. It’s quick, it’s easy and it’s just one more way Westboro Toyota strives to make your shopping experience easy and enjoyable.

Also, now’s a great time to trade in your car or truck. You don’t want to miss our new car specials, going on right now. Deals abound on brand new 2011 Toyota Corollas, Camrys, Rav 4s, Siennas, Camry Hybrids, and more. Check out our live pricing for more details.

All Charged Up: RAV4 EV Coming Soon to Westboro Toyota

It’s coming: an EV (electronic voltage) version of a Toyota favorite—the Rav 4! Recently, Toyota Corporation set the record straight, debunking myths swirling out there in media land that the RAV4 EV would only be marketed to fleet and car-sharing programs. Not so, thankfully.

Westboro Toyota is very pleased to report that the 2012 RAV4 EV will “definitely be sold to the general public,” Toyota announced this week. That means it’s only a charge, ship, and roll—into the showroom—away from being on sale right here at Westboro Toyota.

We’re super proud that Toyota is the only manufacturer bringing two battery electric vehicles to market in 2012—the Scion iQ EV joins the RAV4 in earning this distinction. Don’t forget, too, that the first ever plug-in hybrid Prius is coming in 2012, too—what an exciting year 2012 is shaping up to be!

Toyota, in its truly innovative style, first produced an EV version of the RAV4 back in 1997. Powered by a nickel-metal hydride battery pack, it averaged about 95 miles on a single charge. About 1,500 vehicles were sold or leased in the United States, and more than half of those are still zooming around on their electric charge today.

The new RAV4 EV, with its powerful electric motor with Lithium-ion (Li-ion) battery pack, is a zero-emission vehicle (commonly referred to as a ZEV) that can get about 100 miles on a single charge. (Translation: We could depart our showroom here at 271 Turnpike Road in Westboro and zip into Boston and all the way back and still have 40 or so miles worth of charge!) It will also feature a weightier electric powertrain, but that won’t affect the pep you’re accustomed to during acceleration.

What else can you expect from the RAV4 EV?

• Distinct styling changes, including a new front bumper, grille, head lamps, fog lamps, and 18-inch alloy wheels • Custom seat trims for the interior, as well as multimedia dash displays, push-button shifter and dashboard meters

• Mega cargo area—we’re talking around 73-cubic-foot cargo area with the rear seats folded down, sweet!

Stay tuned to our website for updates on when to expect the RAV4 EV in our Westboro Toyota showroom. We just can’t wait to show it off to you!

Count On Our Complimentary Maintenance

Toyota is all about safety and dependability, and Westboro Toyota is proud of that. That’s why we offer complimentary, worry-free maintenance for two years with the purchase or lease of every new Toyota. That means for the first two years or 25,000 miles, whichever comes first, you’ll be covered.

You might be wondering just how far our complimentary maintenance goes. Check out what’s covered—quite an impressive list, and we think you’ll agree:

24-Hour Roadside Assistance—Been locked out of your care? Need a flat tire changed, a jump start or to have vehicle fluids delivered ? Need an unexpected tow after a fender bender? With the Toyota Care 24-hour roadside assistance, you’re covered.

Toyota Care Scheduled Factory Maintenance—Our factory-trained team of service professionals will change the oil and filter, perform a lubrication check of key chassis parts, rotate your tires and perform a 19-point inspection (we’ll get to those 19 points in just a minute!). We’ll also keep a complete history of maintenance visits and we’ll even send you reminders so you don’t inadvertently skip a maintenance service.

19-Point Inspection—sounds almost like a 21-gun salute, and it is: to your new Toyota. Westboro Toyota wants to be sure to identify any potential issues before they cause any sort of part failure. We understand the importance of preventative maintenance, which will help keep your Toyota in tip-top shape for years to come.

The inspection is divided into two parts: the fluid inspection and replenishment and the visual inspection. During the visual inspection, Westboro Toyota’s trained service professionals will evaluate your Toyota’s air filter, system hoses, drive belts, axle boots, shock absorbers and suspension, PCV valve (if applicable), cooling system, exhaust system and muffler, tire wear, tire pressure, and windshield wipers.

The fluid inspection and replenishment phase includes the following: brake master cylinder, clutch master cylinder, transmission, differential, coolant, windshield washer, power steering and transfer case (if applicable).

Speaking of fluids, in these the doggiest days of summer, be sure to drink plenty of water and stay out of the sun during the peak hours of 10 am to 2 pm. Be kind to your Toyota, too. When not cruisin’ with the A/C cranked, park it in the shade!

Grads and Military Men & Women: Get Great Deals on New Toyotas!

If you’re a recent college graduate or an active member of the U.S. military, Toyota offers some great rebates that could put you in a brand new Toyota. Westboro Toyota is here to answer all your questions about rebates, financing and special offers (give us a call at 888.274.0849), but in the meantime consider the following:

Toyota offers a $500 rebate for all active duty military personnel toward the purchase of a new Toyota when you finance through Toyota Financial Services. If you are on current active duty with the Air Force, Army, Marines, Navy, National Guard or Coast Guard you may be eligible for the rebate pending credit approval and verifiable proof of military status or active service at the time of purchase, i.e., leave and earning statement and military identification card.

Also, school may be out, but recent college graduates may be eligible for a $1,000 rebate toward the purchase or lease of a new Toyota Camry (except the Hybrid model), Corolla, Matrix, RAV4, Tacoma or Yaris through Jan. 3, 2012, pending credit approval and proof of current or future employment within 120 days of the purchase date. To be eligible for the Toyota College Graduate Finance Program, you:

• must have graduated from an accredited two- or four-year college, university or registered nursing-degree program during the last two years or graduate from such a school/program within the next six months; or

• be enrolled in an accredited graduate degree program or have received a degree from an accredited graduate program during the last two years.

Westboro Toyota wants to thank all our military service men and women for their dedication and hard work. And, congratulations to all of you recent college graduates. Those of you who are in school this summer working to finish up your degree, check out Toyota’s scholarships webpage. There’s a lot of free money to be had!

Hot summer deals sizzle at Westboro Toyota

Westboro Toyota’s hot summer deals are just as sizzling as the scorching temperatures outside. But, hey what can you expect? It’s July in New England and Westboro Toyota aims to please by bringing super summer savings to our customers.

We’ve got a number of specials going on right now that you don’t want to miss. Check these out:

• Brand new 2011 Toyota Camry LE: The 6-speed automatic Camry, which was recently named the Most-American Car by Car.com for the third straight year and features a 2.5 liter/4-cylinder engine, may list for $23,494, but Westboro Toyota wants to see you drive away in it for just $19,761 (model #2532, stk #33885). A new 2011 Camry for under $20,000 – you might be able to beat the summer heat by escaping into the A/C, but you sure can’t beat that price!

• Brand new 2011 Toyota Rav4 4X4: Toyota’s compact crossover 4-speed automatic SUV, which lists for $24,475 and features a 4-cylinder/2.5 liter engine, is available at Westboro Toyota for you to ride away in for just $23,227 (model #4432, stk 33662).

• Brand new 2011 Toyota Tacoma: Load up all your summer gear, like your jet ski, your tent and your grill for just $29,457 (model #3544, stk 33771) and hit the open road in Toyota’s compact pickup. The 6-speed automatic Tacoma, which lists for $34,061 and features a 3.5 liter/ V-6 engine, is ranked #1 in its class by U.S. News & World Report.

• Brand new 2011 Toyota Venza AWD: The Venza was named one of the top 10 affordable midsize SUVs for 2011 by U.S. News & World Report and it’s no wonder why. With a list price of $29,978, the 6-speed automatic Venza, which features a 2.5 liter/ 4-cylinder engine, is on sale at Westboro Toyota for just $26,128 (model #2820, stk 33585).

• Brand new 2011 Toyota Yaris: The 5-door hatchback Yaris, 4-speed automatic with its 1.5-liter/4-cylinder engine, lists for $17,082, but come down to Westboro Toyota where the price has been rolled down to just $15,571 (model #1462, stk 33498).

• Brand new 2011 Toyota Tundra: With the sizzling temperatures outside, we can all use a little arctic intervention! Drive away in Toyota’s full-size double cab 4X4 pickup truck, which made U.S. News & World Report’s top five for 2011, and head for the beaches or the mountains for some rough and rugged summertime fun. The 6-speed automatic Tundra, which has a 5.7 liter/V-8 engine and lists for $36,898, is on sale for just $31,522 (model #8341, stk 33231).

Visit WestboroToyota.com for details on these hot summer deals and more – like the specials we’re running on the 2011 Toyota Highlander and the Toyota Avalon. Better yet, come down to our showroom at 271 Turnpike Road in Westboro (Route 9 West) to check out these “summa sizzlas” for yourself. And, stay cool, it’s a scorcher out there!

Happy Birthday America, and Congrats to Our American-Made Camry

With the 4th of July right around the corner, it’s just about that time to take in breathtaking fireworks displays and enjoy barbeques with family and friends. Independence Day is an important piece of our heritage and a living reminder of the resiliency, resolve and pride Americans share.

As we celebrate the birth of this great nation, we here at Westboro Toyota want to also pay homage to our own American icon: the Toyota Camry. Named the “Most American Car” for the third consecutive year, our Camry beat out a slew of competitors in Car.com’s annual American-Made Index.

The index ranks which vehicle is “most American” by the percentage of parts made right here in the United States, where the vehicles are assembled, and how many are sold to buyers domestically. The index can be a helpful tool to refer to when you’re shopping for a new car, truck or SUV because given today’s global economy, it’s not always easy to tell “how American” a vehicle really is.

Westboro Toyota is proud that the Toyota Camry has come in first place for the past three years. We want to recognize the Toyota Tundra, made in Princeton, Ind., and the Sienna, manufactured in San Antonio, Texas, which also made the Index’s 2011 top 10 list.

Many may be surprised to discover that the Camry coveted the top spot given the disastrous earthquake and tsunami that devastated parts of Japan earlier this year. But, the fact is that the Camry is such a popular vehicle here in the States that Toyota relies heavily on U.S.-based factory workers and suppliers to manufacture high-quality parts and the vehicles themselves. Incidentally, the two towns where the Camrys we all drive are assembled carry Colonial-era names: Georgetown, Ky., and Lafayette, Ind. (coincidence…perhaps not!).

American-made products have always been a symbol of excellence. They bring jobs and prosperity to our nation as a whole. The Camry has become a symbol of such excellence, and the results of the American-Made Index are a win-win for Toyota suppliers, Toyota factories and you, our loyal Westboro Toyota customers.

Congrats Camry, and Happy 235th Birthday America. And, from all of us here at Westboro Toyota, we hope you and your families have a happy and safe 4th of July!

Hello Summer: Hello Open Road!

June 21 marked the day we’ve all been waiting for given the long and harsh 2010/11 winter. It’s hard to believe just a mere four months ago we were shoveling snow off our roofs so they wouldn’t collapse under the weight of massive quantities of snow and ice that Mother Nature so graciously dumped on us.

But enough snow talk. Summer is officially here and when we think Solstice, we tend to think road trip, too. Hallejhiah! The time is here to load up the trunk, pile in the kids, and head for the beaches off the New England coast, to the White Mountains, or even further.

Summer is a time to explore the open road, kick back, and relax, and regardless of your destination, your Toyota can get you where you want to go. Here are some tips we at Westboro Toyota recommend to make summer drive time as fun and relaxing as it should be.

Travel at non-peak hours if possible. Summer is the time for roadway construction, so you’re bound to hit some bottlenecks in your travels, but if you on traveling before or after the morning and afternoon rush, you’ll be more likely to sail through those construction zones without all that much idling.

Speaking of idling, it wastes fuel—something given the current price of gas, none of us want to do! If you find yourself stuck in traffic—and we certainly hope you don’t—it’s better to turn the engine off if you’re not going to be moving forward anytime soon. Also, don’t rev the engine, as this, too, is a gas guzzler.

Turning the engine off isn’t the only way to conserve gas. For instance, you also can improve fuel economy by following these simple steps:

Drive the speed limit. If the maximum posted speed is 65 mph, don’t go over that. Driving the speed limit is safer than speeding, which we do not recommend. Plus, it allows you to drive without the worry that you’ll be tagged by a state trooper’s radar gun and pulled over—talk about a summer road trip bummer). And, driving no more than 65 mph can save you about 20 percent in amount of fuel used.

Clean out that trunk. Toyotas have great cargo space, but the added weight of anything you put there means lower fuel economy because the engine has to exert more power to pull the extra load.

Cruise when you can. Cruise control allows your Toyota to consistently deliver fuel to the engine. Giving the engine a steady flow of gas is far better than the alternative.

Don’t over-accelerate. Gunning the gas pedal can lower your miles per gallon by more than 30 percent—ouch!

Maintain ideal tire pressure. If your tires aren’t inflated to the proper psi, this presents a danger to you as the driver, your passengers, and other vehicles on the road. Tires and brakes are a vehicle’s crucial safety mechanisms. Poor tire pressure adversely affects your car, truck, or SUV’s ability to corner and brake, as well as its overall stability on the road. Under-inflated tires also may cause additional fuel loss—you can wave bye to about 3 percent of gas as the result of poor tire pressure.

Before embarking on your summer jaunts, come on in to Westboro Toyota for a quick filter oil change. We’ll rotate your tires and perform a 21-point inspection, both complimentary with the oil change, for the low price of $34.95 plus tax. Visit http://westborotoyota.com/Specials.aspx and scroll down to the offer to print your coupon today.

Above all, have a safe, sun-filled, and fantastic summer. After this past winter, we all for sure deserve it!

Congrats to Our Boston Bruins: How Far Westboro Toyota & the Black, Yellow and White Have Come Since '72

Thirty-nine years in the making. Congratulations from all of us here at Westboro Toyota to our Boston Bruins for overcoming what to those outside the ring of Beantown fandom may have seemed insurmountable—winning a Game 7 not once, not twice, but three times in the same postseason, not to mention while away from the comfort of the Garden’s home ice! It’s the first time it went down just like this in NHL history and we’re proud to say our Bruins did it.

It’s hard to fathom that nearly four decades have passed since Bruins greats Bobby Orr, Phil Esposito and Derek Sanderson embraced the coveted Stanley Cup. But, seeing the emotion and excitement on the faces of current stars, including standouts Patrice Bergeron, Brad Marchand and Tim Thomas, shows us that unadulterated pride is timeless.

Sure, Causeway Street and the Boston Garden looked a lot different back in ’72, which coincidentally is the year we established Westboro Toyota. The elevated central artery cut the city of Boston virtually in half. Life was different, too. Gas prices hovered around 36 cents per gallon. Toyota’s fleet included the Carina, the Celica, the Corolla, the Corona, and the Crown. Cars had a boxy style featuring wood paneling and shag carpets dominated interiors. Bill Gates formed Traf-O-Data, a computer company that strived to read raw road data and create reports for traffic engineers—a far cry from the Microsoft of today.

In the more than 14,200 days that have past since the Cup last resided here, we’ve witnessed and been a part of so much history in the making. We’ve seen the political and economic landscape of this country and countless others shift in ways that before may have seemed unimaginable. With the birth and explosive growth of the Internet over the past 10-plus years, we’ve gained 24/7 connectivity to the world at large—not to mention we’ve found a way to plug in our cars, too!

Gas prices are now about 10 times what they were back then. Big Dig tunnels have replaced the monstrosity of the Central Artery, marrying North Station to the North End, as it should be. Toyota has since retired many of its classics, only to reinvent itself with so many sleek and beloved models, like the Camry, the Prius Hybrid, the Rav4, the Matrix, and the Highlander, just to name a few. Have you checked out Toyota’s concept models lately (http://www.toyota.com/concept-vehicles/)? Pretty impressive technology that’s light years away from the AM radio of the 1970s.

Yes, times have changed, but some things never will. Today, hard-core and fair-weather fans alike in the city of Boston and across our state will be decked out in their black, gold and white, beaming with a renewed sense of pride and adoration for what the Bruins and the rest of our revered sports teams have accomplished.

Did you know that Wednesday’s win makes this the 7th championship title we’ve won in the past 10 years? Rock on Bruins, Patriots, Red Sox, and Celtics and rock on fans. To the next 40 or so years—I wonder what our Toyotas will look like then!

Toyota Owners: You’ve Got a Friend!

Sure you love your Toyota, you doesn’t! Now you can connect with your like-minded Toyota “friends” online.

Toyota Motor Corporation is rolling out “Toyota Friend.” which will link owners to us here at Westboro Toyota and Toyota headquarters. The private social network will be chock full of information on Toyota products and services. You’ll also get tips on how to properly maintain your Toyota model(s).

For those of you who have opted to go electric, with a model like the Prius Hybrid, Toyota Friend can send you an instant alert to your smart phone, tablet PC or other mobile device letting you know that your electric (EV) or plug-in hybrid (PHV) battery is running low on juice.

Plus, if you’ve ever forgotten that it’s time to renew your inspection sticker, Toyota Friend can make sure that never happens again. It will be able to notify you once you’re up for re-inspection and automatically link you to Westboro Toyota so you can set up your service appointment.

If you’re already familiar with Facebook—and even if you’re not—Toyota Friend should be a snap to use. You’ll be able to mark conversations as private or share them with your Toyota Friends, Facebook friends and Twitter followers. You’ll also be able to invite your family and friends to join Toyota Friends through those sites.

Toyota is teaming up with Salesforce.com, which specializes in cloud computing, to bring you Toyota Friend, which will initially launch in Japan with the 2012 rollout of the EV and PHV models.

Free Flip Video with any Prius

Westboro Toyota is giving away a FREE Flip Video with the purchase of any new 2011 Prius! Click here to view live pricing on a new 2011 Prius!

10 More Reasons Toyota is Number One!

Toyota earns more accolades from Vincentric's 7th Annual Best Value in America awards for the 2011 model year. In total Toyota captured 10 awards to lead all auto manufacturers - a total doubling the second-place brand and representing almost one fourth of the total awards distributed.

Vincentric's Best Value awards rate vehicles based on cost of ownership according to factors including depreciation, fuel, insurance, opportunity cost, financing, maintenance, taxes and state fees, and repairs.

Among the 10 awards Toyota received the distinguished honor of the brand level award for the passenger car segment. Additionally, Toyota took home nine model-specific awards, including:

• 4Runner – SUV, Mid-Size (third year in a row)
• Avalon – Large (six-time winner)
• Camry Hybrid – Mid-Size Hybrid Sedan
• FJ Cruiser – SUV, Compact
• Highlander Hybrid – SUV, Mid-Size Hybrid
• Land Cruiser – SUV, Mid-Size Premium (fourth year in a row)
• Prius – Compact, Advanced Fuel Technology (six-time winner)
• Tacoma – Compact Pickup (seventh year in a row…more than any other vehicle)
• Venza – Crossover, Mid-Size (two-time winner)

Vincentric, LLC is a privately held automotive data compilation and analysis firm headquartered in Bingham Farms, Mich. The company provides data, knowledge, and insight to the automotive industry by identifying and applying many aspects of automotive value. Using Vinbase™, its comprehensive, proprietary cost-of-ownership database, Vincentric measures and analyzes the overall cost of owning and operating vehicles and its impact on the value provided to buyers.

Find out more reasons that make Toyota Number One at westborotoyota.com.

Toyota Gives Away 100 Cars in 100 Days

Toyota Corporate announced today that it will give away 100 cars in 100 days as part of a new philanthropic effort. The cars will be given to deserving non-profit and charitable organizations as seen fit by the public.

Toyota is offering fans a chance to vote for deserving non-profits on the company's Facebook page.

Registered 501c(3) non-profit organizations can apply on the Facebook page to be considered for the contest starting on March 7. Public voting for the winning charities will commence on May 9 and continue for 100 days, awarding one non-profit a new car each day through August 16.

Voters can place one vote per day each day of the contest. Check out Toyota's Facebook page today to submit a non-profit and stay up to date on the latest news from the contest!

Announcing the Plural of Prius!

The votes are in and the Plural of Prius has been named! Check out this fun video to see the new Plural of Prius:

NHTSA/NASA Study Affirms Toyota Safety

In a March, 2010 study by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHSTA) engineers analyzed the Toyota electronic throttle control (ETC) system for possible vulnerabilities resulting in unexpected acceleration. Teaming with the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) to conduct these tests, the NHSTA recently released reports stating that neither agency found any electronic cause or vehicle-based cause to large throttle openings that can cause unexpected acceleration.

Read the full report from the NHSTA and NASA here.

In response to these reports Steve St. Angelo, Toyota’s Chief Quality Officer for North America, said the following in an official press release:

“Toyota welcomes the findings of NASA and NHTSA regarding our Electronic Throttle Control System with intelligence (ETCS-i) and we appreciate the thoroughness of their review. We believe this rigorous scientific analysis by some of America's foremost engineers should further reinforce confidence in the safety of Toyota and Lexus vehicles. We hope this important study will help put to rest unsupported speculation about Toyota's ETCS-i, which is well-designed and well-tested to ensure that a real world, un-commanded acceleration of the vehicle cannot occur."

Read more about Toyota's response here.

Kelley Blue Book Says Toyota’s Residual Values Remain Strong

Despite the recalls, Toyota’s residual values remained strong in 2010, Kelley Blue Book concludes in a report released today. Entitled “Toyota: One Year Later,” the study notes that other factors – such as the economy, product cycles and gas prices – impacted the company more than the recalls. 
  
The recalls did influence the opinions of new-car shoppers, and overall purchase consideration was down, along with market share. However, Kelley Blue Book says Toyota has taken action “to repair its image and return as robust as ever.” 

“Overall, Toyota’s values navigated the gauntlet of the recall well, with little lasting effects on its residual values,” the study concludes. 

Key findings include: 

• Recalls had little impact on Toyota’s used-car values, which generally performed in line with the rest of the used-car market. 
• Camry outperformed the mid-size segment, dropping 0.3 percent versus an overall segment drop of 2.1 percent. 
• Overall, the Toyota brand experienced only a minor 0.3 drop, enabling Toyota to maintain its second-place brand residual standing behind top brand Subaru for the 2011 model year. 

Read the full report here. 

Prius Goes Plural

Become a part of the Prius family with four exciting models available from now through 2012.

3rd Generation Prius

The Prius that started it all is now on its third generation and is more fuel efficient than ever. The 50-mpg 3rd Gen Prius uses a larger battery and a unique Power Split Device to gain more efficiency during acceleration, cruising, and braking than typical hybrid engines.

Prius V

The newest Prius set to debut this summer, the Prius V offers 50% more cargo room than the 3rd Generation Prius, sliding and reclining rear seats, and an available infotainment system with Entune.

Prius C Concept

The sporty Prius C Concept will offer more fun in a Prius model at the most affordable price in the Prius family. The Prius C - coming early 2012 - will also feature a higher MPG than the 3rd Gen Prius.

Prius Plug-In Hybrid

Also available in early 2012, the Prius Plug-In Hybrid will offer electric-only driving in addition to an anticipated 50-mpg hybrid drive. Compatible with a standard 110V household plug, the Prius Plu-In Hybrid will fully charge in only three hours.

Find out more about the Prius Family here.

View live pricing on a new Toyota Prius at Westboro Toyota here.