The Toyota Crown Jewel: Toyota Reimagines a Legend for the Discerning Driver

The Toyota Crown, a name synonymous with sophistication and automotive excellence in Japan for over six decades, is poised to redefine itself for the American driver. The 2025 Crown arrives with a bold and distinguished presence, boasting a comprehensive redesign that seamlessly blends progressive technology with undeniable luxury.

A Crown for Every Taste

The 2025 Toyota Crown isn’t a one-size-fits-all proposition. Toyota offers a variety of trim levels, each meticulously crafted to cater to a discerning clientele. Drivers seeking a touch of sportiness will gravitate towards the Nightshade edition, distinguished by its blacked-out exterior accents and 18-inch wheels. For those who prioritize comfort and technology, the XLE, Limited, and Platinum grades offer a progressively luxurious experience.

Powertrain Prowess

Regardless of the trim level selected, every 2025 Crown delivers a captivating driving experience. Toyota equips the Crown with two distinct hybrid powertrain options: the tried-and-tested Toyota Hybrid System (THS) and the exhilarating Hybrid MAX. The THS prioritizes efficiency, achieving an impressive 41 combined miles per gallon, making it ideal for commuters and eco-conscious drivers. The Hybrid MAX, on the other hand, caters to those who crave a spirited driving experience. This innovative powertrain cranks out a staggering 340 horsepower and 400 lb-ft of torque, ensuring that every journey is an exhilarating adventure.

Technological Triumph

The 2025 Crown isn’t merely a luxurious cocoon; it’s a technological marvel. Toyota equips every Crown with a suite of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) designed to enhance safety and provide a more relaxed driving experience. These features include lane departure alert, blind spot monitoring, and automatic emergency braking. The Platinum grade boasts an additional jewel in its technological crown: a standard head-up display that keeps vital information within the driver’s line of sight.

A Luxurious Haven

The interior of the 2025 Crown is a testament to Toyota’s commitment to unparalleled comfort and refinementHeated steering wheels and heated and ventilated front seats come standard across all trims, ensuring year-round comfort. Higher-end trims boast sumptuous leather upholstery and a plethora of thoughtful amenities, transforming every drive into a first-class experience.

The Crown Competing in the Luxury Sedan Arena

The 2025 Crown enters a competitive segment brimming with established players. Here’s a quick comparison of the Crown against some of its key rivals:

Feature2025 Toyota CrownLexus ESAcura TLXGenesis G80
Starting MSRPNot yet announced$42,000$38,000$42,000
Horsepower (max)340 (Hybrid MAX)203-302272-355300-420
MPG (combined)41 (THS)40-4426-3223-32
Standard Driver AssistLane departure alert, Blind spot monitoring, Automatic emergency brakingYesYesYes

The Crown Legacy

The 2025 Toyota Crown represents the culmination of over six decades of automotive excellence. It’s a car meticulously crafted for those who appreciate the finer things in life. With its captivating design, robust performance, and unparalleled comfort, the Crown is poised to reclaim its position as a leader in the luxury sedan segment.

In Conclusion

The 2025 Toyota Crown is a compelling proposition for discerning drivers who seek a car that seamlessly blends luxury, technology, and performance. With its distinctive design, innovative powertrains, and opulent interior, the Crown is a testament to Toyota’s commitment to engineering excellence. Whether you prioritize efficiency, performance, or pure comfort, there’s a 2025 Crown waiting to be discovered.

The 2024 Toyota RAV4 Prime: Power, Efficiency, and Innovation

Discover the perfect blend of power, efficiency, and innovation in the all-new 2024 Toyota RAV4 Prime. As a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV), it offers an unparalleled driving experience that sets new standards in the automotive industry.

Unmatched Performance

The 2024 Toyota RAV4 Prime boasts an impressive 302 horsepower, making it one of the most powerful vehicles in its class. Its plug-in hybrid system combines a high-capacity battery and an efficient gas engine, delivering a stunning 0-60 mph in just 5.7 seconds.

Exceptional Battery Range

With an estimated 42-mile all-electric range, the RAV4 Prime allows you to commute daily without using a single drop of gasoline. Plus, its regenerative braking system helps recharge the battery while you drive, further extending the range.

Charging Made Easy

Charge your RAV4 Prime at home using a standard 120V outlet or upgrade to a 240V Level 2 charger for faster charging times. Additionally, take advantage of the thousands of public charging stations available nationwide for convenient charging on the go.

Stylish and Functional Design

The 2024 RAV4 Prime’s bold exterior features LED headlights, 19-inch alloy wheels, and dual-tone paint schemes that turn heads wherever you go. Inside, enjoy a spacious and comfortable cabin with heated front seats, a panoramic moonroof, and soft-touch materials.

Advanced Technology

Stay connected with the RAV4 Prime’s state-of-the-art infotainment system, featuring an 8-inch touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa compatibility. The available 9-inch touchscreen offers an even more immersive experience.

Safety First

Toyota’s commitment to safety is evident in the RAV4 Prime’s standard Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+ (TSS 2.5+) suite. This includes features such as Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist, and Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control.

Eco-Friendly Driving

The 2024 RAV4 Prime’s PHEV system significantly reduces tailpipe emissions, making it an eco-friendly choice for environmentally conscious drivers. Plus, its Electronic On-Demand All-Wheel Drive (AWD) ensures excellent fuel efficiency without compromising performance.

Trim Levels

The RAV4 Prime is available in two trim levels: SE and XSE. The SE offers ample standard features, while the XSE adds sporty upgrades like sport-tuned suspension, unique exterior accents, and paddle shifters.

Comparison with Competitors

Feature2024 Toyota RAV4 PrimeFord Escape PHEVHonda CR-V Hybrid
Horsepower302221212
Electric Range (miles)4237N/A (Hybrid)
0-60 mph (seconds)5.77.87.6
Starting Price (USD)$39,500 (est.)$33,140$28,500

Conclusion

The 2024 Toyota RAV4 Prime offers an unbeatable power, efficiency, and style combination. Its impressive performance, advanced technology, and eco-friendly driving capabilities make it the perfect choice for those seeking a cutting-edge, sustainable vehicle. Experience the future of driving today with the all-new RAV4 Prime.

The 2024 Toyota Hilux Champ is Built for Business

Calling all truck enthusiasts, business owners, and budget-conscious drivers! Toyota has unveiled a game-changer in the pickup truck segment – the 2024 Toyota Hilux Champ. This no-frills workhorse prioritizes affordability, durability, and functionality, making it the perfect companion for getting the job done.

Unbeatable Price Tag

Let’s address the elephant in the room – the price. The Hilux Champ pickup truck starts at a remarkably low ฿459,000 Thai baht, which translates to a staggering $13,065. That’s significantly cheaper than most basic pickup trucks, making it an attractive option for businesses and individuals seeking a reliable work vehicle without breaking the bank.

Engine Options for Every Need

The Hilux Champ caters to diverse needs with three engine choices:

  • A 2.0-liter gasoline engine – ideal for everyday tasks and known for its fuel efficiency.
  • A 2.7-liter gasoline engine – perfect for those requiring more power for hauling heavier loads.
  • A 2.4-liter turbodiesel engine – the go-to option for maximum torque and towing capability, especially beneficial for commercial use.

Built to Last: Rugged Design and Functionality

The Hilux Champ boasts a robust ladder-frame chassis, proven to endure demanding terrains and harsh working conditions. It’s available in three body configurations: short-bed single cab, long-bed single cab, and long-bed deck. This versatility allows for customization based on your specific needs, whether you require maximum cargo space or prefer a more compact footprint.

Focus on Functionality over Frills

The interior of the Hilux Champ reflects its utilitarian nature. It prioritizes functionality over comfort, featuring vinyl seating, a fan for ventilation, and essential storage compartments. This minimalist approach translates to lower costs and easier maintenance – ideal for those who prioritize practicality over creature comforts.

Who is the Hilux Champ For?

The Hilux Champ is the ideal vehicle for:

  • Businesses: From construction companies to landscaping services, the Hilux Champ’s affordability, durability, and cargo capacity make it a budget-friendly choice for commercial fleets.
  • Farmers and ranchers: The Hilux Champ’s toughness and towing capability make it a reliable partner for hauling equipment and agricultural supplies.
  • Budget-minded drivers: The Hilux Champ delivers exceptional value for those seeking a dependable and affordable pickup truck for everyday tasks or weekend adventures.

A Global Debut?

While the Hilux Champ is currently only available in Thailand, its impressive features and competitive price tag have generated international interest. Rumors suggest that Toyota might introduce the Hilux Champ, potentially under a different name, to other emerging markets in Southeast Asia and beyond.

The Final Verdict

The 2024 Toyota Hilux Champ is a refreshing change in the pickup truck landscape. It prioritizes what truly matters – affordability, durability, and functionality. Whether you’re a business owner, a farmer, or a budget-conscious driver, the Hilux Champ offers a compelling proposition. With its unbeatable price tag and practical design, this no-nonsense truck will find a loyal following wherever it roams.

How the 2024 Toyota Prius Prime Plug-in Hybrid Can Save You Money

The Toyota Prius has been the poster child of hybrid cars for over two decades, offering drivers a fuel-efficient and eco-friendly alternative to conventional gas-powered vehicles. But what if you could go even further with your green driving habits and enjoy the benefits of an electric and hybrid car in one?

That’s the promise of the 2024 Toyota Prius Prime, the plug-in hybrid version of the popular Prius. The Prius Prime lets you drive on pure electric power for up to 44 miles and then seamlessly switches to its hybrid engine when the battery runs low. This way, you can reduce your gas consumption and emissions while still having the flexibility and convenience of a hybrid car.

But how does the Prius Prime compare to other plug-in hybrids on the market, and is it worth the extra cost over the regular Prius? I’ll take a closer look at the features, performance, and value of the 2024 Toyota Prius Prime and show you why it might be the best choice for your next car purchase.

What is a Plug-in Hybrid and How Does It Work?

A plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) is a type of hybrid car that can be plugged into an external power source to charge its battery and use its gas engine to generate electricity. Unlike a regular hybrid car, which can only drive a short distance on electric power, a plug-in hybrid can drive for longer distances on battery power alone, depending on the size and capacity of its battery.

The main advantage of a plug-in hybrid is that it can reduce your fuel consumption and emissions significantly, especially if you drive mostly in the city or have a short commute. You can also save money on gas and maintenance and qualify for federal and state tax credits and incentives for buying an electric vehicle.

The main drawback of a plug-in hybrid is that it is more expensive than a regular hybrid car and requires access to a charging station or an outlet to recharge its battery. You also need to plan your trips carefully, as you may run out of battery power before reaching your destination or a charging station.

What Makes the 2024 Toyota Prius Prime Different from Other Plug-in Hybrids?

The 2024 Toyota Prius Prime is not the first or the only plug-in hybrid on the market, but it has some unique features and advantages that make it stand out from the crowd. Here are some of the key differences and benefits of the Prius Prime:

  • It has a longer electric range than most plug-in hybrids. The Prius Prime has a manufacturer-estimated EPA-estimated all-electric driving range of up to 44 miles, which is more than double the range of most plug-in hybrids, such as the Honda Clarity Plug-in Hybrid (28 miles), the Hyundai Ioniq Plug-in Hybrid (29 miles), and the Ford Escape Plug-in Hybrid (37 miles). This means you can drive longer and farther on electric power, and use less gas and produce less emissions.
  • It has a higher fuel efficiency than most plug-in hybrids. The Prius Prime has a combined fuel economy rating of 52 MPG when running on its hybrid engine and 127 MPGE when running on its electric motor. MPGe stands for miles per gallon equivalent and measures how far a car can travel on the amount of energy in one gallon of gas. The Prius Prime’s fuel efficiency is higher than most plug-in hybrids, such as the Honda Clarity Plug-in Hybrid (42 mpg/110 MPGe), the Hyundai Ioniq Plug-in Hybrid (52 mpg/119 MPGe), and the Ford Escape Plug-in Hybrid (41 mpg/102 MPGe). This means you can save more money on gas and reduce your carbon footprint.
  • It has a more powerful and responsive performance than the previous Prius Prime. The 2024 Prius Prime has a total system output of 220 horsepower, a significant increase from the previous model’s 121 horsepower. The Prius Prime also has a faster acceleration, going from 0 to 60 mph in 6.6 seconds, compared to the previous model’s 10.2 seconds. The Prius Prime’s performance is comparable to or better than some of its plug-in hybrid rivals, such as the Honda Clarity Plug-in Hybrid (212 horsepower, 7.7 seconds), the Hyundai Ioniq Plug-in Hybrid (156 horsepower, 8.9 seconds), and the Ford Escape Plug-in Hybrid (221 horsepower, 8.7 seconds). This means you can enjoy a more fun and exhilarating driving experience without compromising on efficiency or eco-friendliness.
  • It has a sleeker and more futuristic design than the regular Prius. The 2024 Prius Prime has a more streamlined and aerodynamic shape than the regular Prius, with a lower and wider stance, a longer and sharper nose, and a shorter and higher tail. The Prius Prime also has a distinctive front grille, LED headlights and taillights, and 19-inch alloy wheels. The Prius Prime’s design is more appealing and attractive than the regular Prius, and it also improves its performance and efficiency by reducing air resistance and drag.

How Much Does the 2024 Toyota Prius Prime Cost and What Features Does It Offer?

The 2024 Toyota Prius Prime comes in three trim levels: SE, XSE, and XSE Premium. The base price of the Prius Prime starts at $32,975 for the SE, $36,225 for the XSE, and $39,670 for the XSE Premium. The prices do not include the destination charge of $1,025 or any taxes, fees, or incentives.

The Prius Prime offers a variety of features and options, depending on the trim level. Here are some of the highlights of each trim level:

  • SE: The SE is the entry-level trim of the Prius Prime, but it still comes with plenty of standard features, such as:
    • Top-mount Multi-Information Display (MID) with indicators and 7-in. LCD display
    • Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert (RCTA)
    • 8.0-in. Toyota Audio Multimedia display with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa compatibility
    • Toyota Safety Sense 2.5 (TSS 2.5), which includes Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection (PCS w/PD), Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist (LDA w/SA), Lane Tracing Assist (LTA), Automatic High Beams (AHB), Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC), and Road Sign Assist (RSA)
    • Smart Key System on driver’s door with Push Button Start
    • Heated front seats with fabric trim
    • 60/40 split fold-down rear seats
    • Qi-compatible wireless smartphone charging with charge indicator light
    • LED Daytime Running Lights (DRL) and LED taillights
    • 15-in. alloy wheels and 195/65R15 tires
  • XSE: The XSE is the mid-level trim of the Prius Prime, and it adds some more features and options to the SE, such as:
    • 19-in. alloy wheels and 195/50R19 tires
    • SofTex®-trimmed front seats with 8-way power-adjustable driver’s seat
    • Color Head-Up Display (HUD) with speedometer, navigation, and Hybrid System Indicator
    • Adaptive Front-Lighting System (AFS) with auto-leveling headlights
    • LED fog lights and accent lights
    • Rain-sensing variable intermittent windshield wipers
    • Power tilt/slide moonroof with sliding sunshade
    • Auto-dimming rearview mirror with HomeLink® universal transceiver
    • Power liftgate with jam protection
    • Available Premium Package, which includes 12.3-in. Toyota Audio Multimedia touchscreen display, 8-speaker JBL® Premium Audio including amplifier, and fixed glass roof
  • XSE Premium: The XSE Premium is the top-of-the-line trim of the Prius Prime, and it includes all the features and options of the XSE, plus the Premium Package as standard.

How Much Can You Save with the 2024 Toyota Prius Prime?

The 2024 Toyota Prius Prime can help you save money and the planet in several ways. Here are some of the main ways you can benefit from owning a Prius Prime:

  • You can save money on gas. The Prius Prime can run on electric power for up to 44 miles, which means you can avoid using gas for most of your daily trips. Even when you run out of battery power, the Prius Prime still has a high fuel efficiency of 52 mpg, which means you can go farther on less gas. According to the EPA, the Prius Prime has an annual fuel cost of $650, based on 15,000 miles of driving, 55% city and 45% highway, and a gas price of $2.65 per gallon. This is much lower than the average annual fuel cost of $1,400 for a new vehicle and $1,050 for a new hybrid vehicle. Over five years, you can save up to $3,750 on gas with the Prius Prime, compared to a new vehicle, and up to $2,000 compared to a new hybrid vehicle.
  • You can save money on maintenance. The Prius Prime has a low maintenance cost thanks to its reliable and durable hybrid system, which reduces the wear and tear on the engine and other components. The Prius Prime also comes with ToyotaCare, a no-cost maintenance plan that covers normal factory scheduled service for two years or 25,000 miles, whichever comes first, and 24-hour roadside assistance for three years, unlimited mileage. According to Edmunds, the Prius Prime has a five-year total cost of ownership of $30,749, which is lower than the average of $36,470 for a new vehicle and $32,723 for a new hybrid vehicle. Over five years, you can save up to $5,721 on maintenance with the Prius Prime, compared to a new vehicle, and up to $1,974, compared to a new hybrid vehicle.
  • You can save money on taxes and incentives. The Prius Prime qualifies for a federal tax credit of up to $4,502, depending on your tax situation and the battery capacity of the vehicle. The Prius Prime may also qualify for state and local incentives, such as rebates, discounts, HOV lane access, and free parking, depending on where you live and register your vehicle. You can check the availability and eligibility of these incentives at https://www.afdc.energy.gov/laws/. These incentives can help you lower the upfront cost of buying a Prius Prime, and make it more affordable and competitive than a regular hybrid or a gas-powered vehicle.
  • You can save the planet by reducing your environmental impact. The Prius Prime can help you reduce your greenhouse gas emissions and your dependence on fossil fuels, by using more renewable and clean energy sources. The Prius Prime emits only 80 grams of CO2 per mile, which is much lower than the average of 381 grams of CO2 per mile for a new vehicle, and 211 grams of CO2 per mile for a new hybrid vehicle. The Prius Prime also uses only 0.6 barrels of oil per year, which is much lower than the average of 10.3 barrels of oil per year for a new vehicle, and 5.7 barrels of oil per year for a new hybrid vehicle. By choosing the Prius Prime, you can help combat climate change and air pollution, and contribute to a more sustainable and healthy future for yourself and others.

How do you charge the 2024 Toyota Prius Prime, and how long does it take?

One of the main questions that potential buyers of the Prius Prime may have is how to charge the battery and how long it takes. The good news is that charging the Prius Prime is easy and convenient, and you have several options, depending on your needs and preferences.

The Prius Prime has a standard 120-volt charging cable, which you can plug into any regular household outlet. This is the simplest and most accessible way to charge your Prius Prime, but it is also the slowest. It takes about 12 hours to fully charge the Prius Prime’s battery using a 120-volt outlet, which may not be ideal if you need to charge your car quickly or frequently.

If you want to speed up the charging process, you can opt for a 240-volt charging station, which you can install at your home or use at a public charging station. A 240-volt charging station can fully charge the Prius Prime’s battery in about 2.5 hours, which is much faster and more convenient than a 120-volt outlet. However, a 240-volt charging station may require additional installation costs and permits, and it may not be available everywhere.

Another option to charge the Prius Prime is to use its hybrid engine, which can generate electricity and replenish the battery while you drive. This is a handy feature that allows you to extend your electric range and save gas, without having to plug in your car. However, this option may not be as efficient or eco-friendly as using an external power source, as it still consumes some gas and produces some emissions.

The best way to charge the Prius Prime depends on your driving habits and preferences. If you drive mostly short distances and have access to a 240-volt charging station, you can maximize your electric driving and minimize your gas usage. If you drive longer distances and have access to a 120-volt outlet, you can still enjoy some electric driving and save some gas, but you may need to plan your charging schedule beforehand. Suppose you drive in mixed conditions and have no access to a charging station. In that case, you can still benefit from the hybrid engine and its regenerative braking system, which can help you optimize your fuel efficiency and performance.

How do you drive the 2024 Toyota Prius Prime, and what modes does it have?

The 2024 Toyota Prius Prime is designed to offer you a smooth and comfortable driving experience, with a range of modes and features that you can customize to suit your needs and preferences. Here are some of the main modes and features that the Prius Prime has:

  • EV Mode: This is the default mode of the Prius Prime, which allows you to drive on pure electric power for up to 44 miles, as long as the battery has enough charge. This mode is ideal for city driving and short trips, as it can help you save gas and reduce emissions. You can also switch to EV Mode manually by pressing the EV Mode button on the center console if you want to use electric power at any time.
  • HV Mode: This is the mode that the Prius Prime automatically switches to when the battery runs low or when you need more power, such as when you accelerate or climb a hill. This mode uses both the electric motor and the gas engine to power the car, and it can help you maintain a high fuel efficiency of 52 mpg. You can also switch to HV Mode manually by pressing the HV Mode button on the center console if you want to save some battery charge for later use.
  • EV Auto Mode: This is a mode that the Prius Prime automatically switches to when it detects that you need more power than the EV Mode can provide, such as when you exceed a certain speed or when you demand more acceleration. This mode uses both the electric motor and the gas engine to power the car, but it prioritizes the electric power over the gas power, as long as the battery has enough charge. This mode can help you optimize your performance and efficiency, without compromising on your electric driving. You can also switch to EV Auto Mode manually by pressing the EV Auto Mode button on the center console if you want to let the car decide the best power source for you.
  • ECO Mode: This is a mode that you can activate by pressing the ECO Mode button on the center console, regardless of the other modes. This mode adjusts the throttle response and the climate control system to reduce energy consumption and increase the car’s fuel efficiency. This mode can help you save gas and extend your range, but it may also reduce the responsiveness and comfort of the car.
  • Power Mode: You can activate this mode by pressing the Power Mode button on the center console, regardless of the other modes. This mode increases the throttle response and the car’s power output to enhance the acceleration and performance of the car. This mode can help you enjoy a more sporty and exhilarating driving experience, but it may also increase gas consumption and reduce the car’s fuel efficiency.

How do you buy the 2024 Toyota Prius Prime, and where do you find it?

Suppose you are interested in buying the 2024 Toyota Prius Prime. In that case, you can visit the official Toyota website at https://www.toyota.com/priusprime/ to learn more about the features, specifications, and prices of the Prius Prime. You can also use the website to build and customize your own Prius Prime, compare it with other models, and find a dealer near you.

The 2024 Toyota Prius Prime is expected to be available in the US market in late 2023 or early 2024, depending on the supply and demand. The Prius Prime may also be available in other markets, such as Canada, Europe, Japan, and Australia, but the availability and prices may vary depending on the region and the regulations.

Conclusion

The 2024 Toyota Prius Prime is a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle that offers the best of both worlds: the efficiency and eco-friendliness of an electric car and the flexibility and convenience of a hybrid car. The Prius Prime can drive on pure electric power for up to 44 miles and then switch to its hybrid engine when the battery runs low, giving you a combined range of over 600 miles. The Prius Prime also has a high fuel economy of 52 mpg and 127 MPGe, a powerful and responsive performance of 220 horsepower and 6.6 seconds from 0 to 60 mph, and a sleek and futuristic design that improves its aerodynamics and aesthetics.

The Prius Prime can also help you save money and the planet by reducing your gas consumption and emissions, lowering your maintenance and ownership costs, and qualifying you for tax credits and incentives. The Prius Prime is easy and convenient to charge, with several options to choose from, and it offers

The 2024 Toyota Sienna: A Fuel-Efficient and Feature-Rich Hybrid Minivan

The minivan segment has long been dominated by the Honda Odyssey and the Chrysler Pacifica, but the 2024 Toyota Sienna is ready to challenge them with its distinctive styling, class-leading fuel economy, and spacious cabin. The Sienna is the only minivan that offers a hybrid powertrain as standard, delivering up to 36 mpg in the city and on the highway. It also has the option of all-wheel drive, which is rare among minivans. The Sienna can seat up to eight passengers, or seven with the available second-row captain’s chairs, and has plenty of room for cargo. The Sienna also has many standard features, including a 9-inch touchscreen, a wireless charger, a power liftgate, and a suite of driver-assistance technologies. The Sienna is available in six trim levels, ranging from the base LE to the luxurious Limited, and has a starting price of $37,185.

What’s New for 2024?

The Sienna hybrid minivan was redesigned for the 2023 model year, so there are not many changes for 2024. The main difference is the addition of the XSE Premium trim, which slots between the XSE and the Limited. The XSE Premium adds leather seats, power front seats with memory, a power tilt-and-telescopic steering wheel with memory, heated side mirrors, puddle lamps, and orange accent stitching. The XSE Premium also comes with a JBL sound system, a 360-degree camera system, and a rear-seat entertainment system. The XSE and the Woodland trims also get darker wheels, and the LE and XLE trims get darker headlights.

How Does It Drive?

The Sienna is powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and two electric motors that produce a combined output of 245 horsepower. The power is sent to the front wheels through a continuously variable transmission (CVT) or to all four wheels with an additional electric motor on the rear axle. The Sienna is not a fast or sporty vehicle, but it has enough power for most driving situations. The engine can be noisy under hard acceleration, and the CVT can make it a drone. The Sienna has a smooth and comfortable ride thanks to its independent suspension and adaptive dampers. The steering is light and responsive, and the brakes are strong and regenerative. The Sienna has three driving modes: Eco, Normal, and Sport, which adjust the throttle response, steering effort, and suspension stiffness. The Sienna also has an EV mode, which allows it to run on electric power only for short distances at low speeds.

How Spacious Is It?

The Sienna hybrid minivan has a roomy and versatile interior, with three rows of seats that can accommodate up to eight people or seven with the optional second-row captain’s chairs. The front seats are supportive and comfortable and offer a good view of the road. The second-row seats are also spacious and adjustable and can slide forward and backward, recline, and fold down. The third-row seats are easy to access, thanks to the wide sliding doors and the tip-up function of the second-row seats. The third-row seats can also fold flat into the floor, creating a large cargo area. The Sienna has a total cargo capacity of 101 cubic feet behind the first row, 75.2 cubic feet behind the second row, and 33.5 cubic feet behind the third row. The Sienna also has many storage spaces throughout the cabin, including a large center console, a shelf on the dashboard, door pockets, cup holders, and seatback pockets.

What Features Does It Have?

The Sienna comes with a generous list of standard features, as well as some optional ones. The base LE trim includes:

  • A 9-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa compatibility
  • A six-speaker sound system with satellite radio and USB ports
  • A wireless charger for compatible devices
  • A 7-inch digital instrument cluster
  • A 4.2-inch multi-information display
  • A power liftgate
  • Dual-zone automatic climate control
  • Cloth seats
  • Keyless entry and push-button start
  • LED headlights and taillights
  • 18-inch alloy wheels

The Sienna also comes with a comprehensive set of driver-assistance features, such as:

  • Forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking and pedestrian detection
  • Adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go capability
  • Lane departure warning with lane-keeping assist and road sign recognition
  • Automatic high beams
  • Blind spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert

The higher trim levels add more features, such as:

  • A power sunroof
  • Leather seats
  • Heated and ventilated front seats
  • Heated second-row seats
  • Power front seats with memory
  • A power tilt-and-telescopic steering wheel with memory
  • A heated steering wheel
  • Tri-zone automatic climate control
  • A 10-inch head-up display
  • A 12.3-inch touchscreen
  • A JBL sound system with 12 speakers
  • A 360-degree camera system
  • A rear-seat entertainment system with 11.6-inch screens
  • A digital rearview mirror
  • A kick-activated sliding doors and liftgate
  • LED fog lights and daytime running lights
  • 19- or 20-inch alloy wheels

How Safe Is It?

The Sienna has not been crash-tested by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) or the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) as of this writing, but it is expected to perform well, given its solid structure and advanced safety features. The Sienna also has a five-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty, a three-year/36,000-mile basic warranty, and a 10-year/150,000-mile hybrid component warranty.

How Does It Compare to the Competition?

The Sienna faces tough competition from other minivans, such as the Honda Odyssey, the Chrysler Pacifica, and the Kia Carnival. The Odyssey is the best-selling minivan in the U.S., and offers a smooth ride, a spacious and flexible interior, and a strong V6 engine. The Pacifica is the only minivan offering a plug-in hybrid option, a stylish design, a luxurious cabin, and a user-friendly infotainment system. The Carnival is the newest entrant in the segment and boasts a bold look, a powerful V6 engine, and a versatile interior with a reclining second-row lounge seat.

The Sienna has advantages over its rivals, such as its hybrid efficiency, available all-wheel drive, and generous warranty. However, it has some drawbacks, such as its noisy engine, fixed second-row seats, and polarizing styling. The Sienna is a good choice for buyers who value fuel economy, reliability, and safety. Still, it may not be the best choice for those who prefer more power, flexibility, and refinement.

The Bottom Line

The 2024 Toyota Sienna is a hybrid minivan that combines style, efficiency, and versatility. It has a spacious, comfortable interior with plenty of standard tech and driver-assistance features, but the hybrid powertrain lacks power and refinement. The Sienna is available in six trim levels, ranging from the base LE to the luxurious Limited, and has a starting price of $37,185. The Sienna is a good option for minivan buyers who want to save gas, but it may not be the best option for those who want more performance, flexibility, and elegance.

The new Toyota Yaris Cross compact crossover SUV

Among the most expanding sectors of the market, the B-class SUV is certainly one of the hardest fought. Consumers are asking for compact crossovers capable of combining the dimensions suitable for city driving with an off-road style, and the manufacturers are happy to satisfy them.

Based on the same platform used for the latest generation of the Yaris, the Toyota Yaris Cross proves to be a decidedly city-appropriate crossover. The merit is the particularly small size of the car body. The length measures 4 meters and 18 cm, while the width and height respectively reach 177 cm and 168 cm. The 256 cm wheelbase is identical to that of the Yaris.

Toyota Yaris Cross

Despite the close relationship with the Yaris, the style centre of the Japanese company has created a specific look for the Toyota Yaris Cross. The lines used for the car body are particularly squared starting from the front where a very high nose stands out adorned with thin and sharp headlights that integrate well with the various ribs on the bonnet. The side view further appreciates the design made muscular by the well-highlighted wheel arches, while in the rear one, the realization of the headlights that seem to project out of the rear of the car is surprising.

Compared to the exterior, the interior of the Toyota Yaris Cross appears to be much more traditional and the merit is all of the clean and fluid lines on the dashboard. At the centre of the same is the cantilever monitor dedicated to the infotainment system, while the greater height compared to the Yaris is to the advantage of passengers who can enjoy a decidedly airy interior. Unfortunately, we note the lack of the sliding rear sofa which would have guaranteed even greater roominess for the occupants.

The Toyota Yaris Cross will be equipped with two engines: a petrol and a hybrid. In both cases, the starting point will be the 1.5 equipped with a CVT gearbox and available both with two and four-wheel drive, but in the electrified version the traction on the four wheels will be guaranteed not by a transmission shaft but by the presence of an electric motor. positioned on the rear axle.

Toyota Yaris Cross

The Toyota opened orders for the Yaris Cross. The new Japanese B-class SUV, of which the price list has not yet been released, will be delivered starting from September.