Toyota’s Highlander and the Muppets teams ready for joyride

All- new film Muppets’’ Most Wanted’’  hits theaters on March 21, 2014.

Everybody’s favorite gang is on a mission to “unborify” Terry Crews, the actor of Brooklyn Nine-Nine and Everybody Hates Chris fame in the Toyota’s new commercial for the all-new 2014 Toyota Highlander.

Toyota is teaming up with Disney to promote the launch of its redesigned Highlander mid-sized crossover, starting with a 60-second Super Bowl in a video entitled Joyride. The broadcast debut will be during Super Bowl XLVIII on Sunday, February 2.

 “Our game-day spot shows how Toyota Highlander puts the ‘fun’ in function,” said Jack Hollis, vice president of Toyota Division Marketing at Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A. , Inc. “Toyota vehicles are built to last and can even endure the most boisterous Muppets, a former

NFL player as well as a center console full of chickens.”

But without giving too much away, the Muppets will use their over-the-top personalities to teach ex-NFL player and TV personality Terry Crews a thing or two about unborifying his lifestyle as they borrow his sweet and fun-ctional Toyota Highlander. The video features humorous hijinks, dancing and surprises a console full of chickens and of course, an original song.

Spacious seating for eight human passengers, or for a dozen Muppets. The new Toyota Highlander has plenty of room for everything, except for boring.

 “We’re always game for a wild ride,” said Kermit the Frog, who makes a special appearance in the campaign, “as long as Animal’s not driving. He doesn’t quite get the whole concept of brakes.”

 Crew’s who played six years in NFL as defensive end/linebacker, is known for his roles and appearances on television shows such as “The Newsroom,” “Arrested Development”  and films “The Expendables” franchise, “Bridesmaids” and “The Longest Yard.”

 “It’s truly an honor to be a part of this wild ride with Toyota and the Muppets,” said Crews.”The Toyota Highlander is the perfect vehicle to teach my character how to loosen up and have some fun. Be prepared for some laughs on game day.”

In addition to the commercial, the Muppets will be providing real-time updates as they travel to the big game in their Toyota Highlander on February 2. Fans are invited to chat live with the Muppets on game day by tweeting @Toyota or using #NoRoomForBoring.

All the activities, broadcasting the video and social media were developed in partnership with Saatchi & Saatchi LA, Conill and 360i. “Joyride” will air during the second quarter of the game. Preview of the commercial:

The film takes entire Muppets gang on a global tour where they find themselves accidentally involved in an international crime caper. Also starring Ricky Gervais, Ty Burrell and Tina Fey.

 “We all grew up with Kermit and the Muppets, and that makes Toyota’s collaboration with Disney very special for us,” said Hollis. “The two brands share a focus on delighting guests, and this allows us to take them along on a fun ride.”

“We’re excited to work with Toyota for the first time,” said Don Gross, vice president, promotions The Walt Disney Studios. “The Muppets’ classic mix of high energy and heart matches perfectly with Toyota’s spirit of adventure, and Kermit, Gonzo and the whole gang look forward to many zany road trips.”

Toyota Indiana Prepares for Hybrids and Exports, The Start of the all - new 2014 Highlander

More than 600 jobs by end of 2014

Hoosier pride was felt profound and large. Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Indiana this morning celebrated the start of production of the all – new 2014 Highlander.

The area citizens and TMMI team members have much to celebrate. The popular midsize SUV is responsible for $430 million further investment and more than 600 jobs at the Princeton automotive plant.

“Automotive manufacturers and suppliers around Indiana are putting their expansion plans into gear, creating jobs and more opportunities in every corner of the state,” said Indiana Lieutenant Governor Sue Ellspermann. “With Toyota’s launch of production for the new Highlander right here in the Hoosier State, we are witnessing an economy driving forward. From our world-class workforce to our low cost of doing business, Indiana proves daily that it is a state that works for automotive manufacturing.”

Westboro Toyota Highlander Inventory

The plant in Princeton builds a gas version of the Highlander and will begin producing the hybrid version early next year. The new born Highlanders will find their new homes in Russian and Australian regions as TMMI spreads its export reach.

This export business allows for better application of the Indiana plant, and helps capitalize on the improving North American and global auto market.

2014 new Highlander features

-  All-new exterior with 3rd row seating for up to eight,

-  Increased cargo capacity,

- Three power train choices: a fuel efficient four cylinder engine, a powerful V6 with a new six-speed transmission, and a V6 - powered Hybrid Synergy Drive,

-  Entune Audio with Bluetooth phone and streaming music and touch – screen display,

-  Integrated backup camera,

-  STAR safety System, includes Enhanced Vehicle Stability Control, Traction Control, 

   Anti – Lock Brake System, Electronic Brake – Force Distribution, Brake assist and

   Smart Stop Technology,

-  Adjustable height power rear liftgate and flip – up rear hatch window, and

- Eight – way power driver seat.

“The all-new Highlander is a dynamic, stylish SUV and its quality craftsmanship and the fact that it will be exported to the Russian and Australian markets is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our team members.” Bafunno said.  “This really is a milestone for our entire team,”
 

Sheila Showalter, Quality Assurance team leader, couldn’t agree more. “When I started here 16 years ago, I was one of 1,300 team members in the West Plant and we were only building the Tundra.  It is exciting to be a part of something this big.”
 

Representing a $4.2 billion investment, TMMI directly employs about 4,500. By the end of 2014, Toyota will directly employ 4,700 team members. This plant also produces the Sequoia full size SUV and Sienna minivan.

Check out Westboro Toyota Highlander inventory