Tag: corolla cross

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Texas Toyota

Is Buying a Car in 2022 Worth It?

iStock/deepblue4you
iStock/deepblue4you

With the COVID-19 Pandemic coming to a close, consumers are once again demanding a large supply of new vehicles. One that cannot yet be fulfilled by the world’s manufacturers due to a massive shortage of semiconductors with no end in sight.

This shortage has dealerships all over the country scrambling to find a way to put customers behind the wheel of a new vehicle. With the ongoing shortage and rising prices, you may be wondering if now is the right time to buy a new vehicle at Toyota of Abilene, and this blog just may help you decide.

At Toyota of Abilene, the shortage isn’t stopping them from stocking the Abilene, TX area’s best selection of new, pre-owned and certified pre-owned Toyota vehicles. Whether you’re looking for a new or pre-owned vehicle, Toyota of Abilene has plenty of options for you to choose from. Don’t let the shortage hold you back, stop by and see why Toyota of Abilene is Abilene’s favorite Toyota dealer today!

Rising Prices, Dwindling Inventory

As the world slowly returns to form after the COVID-19 Pandemic, the global supply chain is struggling to keep up after such a long period of disruption. Back in 2020, with the world at the height of the pandemic, factories all over the world shut down to stop the spread, while subsequently stopping the production of goods.

During the global shutdown, inventory began to pile up on dealership lots all throughout the United States. With each passing day, the cost of insurance and interest on this sitting inventory totaled in the hundreds of thousands, causing dealership owners a slight panic. This time of uncertainty and panic was not here to stay long, as a bigger problem awaited dealership owners in the near future.

Fast forward a year to 2021, dealerships throughout the U.S. are struggling to keep up with demand for inventory as manufacturers struggle to produce new vehicles. This struggle is largely due to a semiconductor shortage that was sparked by the worldwide lockdowns that took place during the pandemic. With factories shut down and semiconductors not being made, new vehicles ceased to be produced and vehicle manufacturers found themselves struggling to fulfill dealership orders.

In response to the growing supply chain issue, dealerships began to turn their focus toward to used vehicle market, encouraging customers to sell their used vehicles or complete trade-ins. With used vehicles more desirable than ever and equipped government-backed stimulus checks, consumers throughout the United States flocked to dealerships to trade in their old vehicles in favor of new ones.

The rush by dealerships to find ways to supplement the shortage of new vehicles only further exacerbated that shortage, leaving dealerships in a pickle. Now dealerships have droves of customers clamoring to trade-in their vehicles, with no new vehicles to sell those customers, resulting in long waiting lists and disgruntled customers.

With this shortage, you may be wondering if now is the right time to start the search for a vehicle. The answer here at Toyota of Abilene is a resounding, YES! Despite the supply chain issues and a shortage of new vehicles, there has never been a better time to trade in your old vehicle in favor of purchasing a new one. Keep reading to find out why!

The Time Is Now

If you’re wondering if it’s a smart idea to buy a car in 2022, the answer is YES! Now, you may be doubting that because of what you just read above…but fear not! There truly has never been a better time to buy a new car, truck or SUV — and here are some reasons why.

Interest Rates

One of the biggest reasons you should be buying a car right now is because of the incredibly low-interest rates that are available. Right now, banks are loaning out money at record-setting rates in attempts to reinvigorate the struggling, post-pandemic economy. With rates as low as 0.99% APR available, it’s a no-brainer to buy a new vehicle right now as rates like this aren’t typically available.

If you want the best interest rates on the widest selection of new and pre-owned Toyota vehicles, stop by Toyota of Abilene located in Abilene today!

Your Car Is Worth More Than Ever Before

Yeah, you read that right…your old car is worth more than ever before thanks to the shortage of new inventory. Typically, all cars begin depreciating the moment they leave the dealership lot. However, in this whacky post-pandemic economy, some vehicles have actually gained value as they aged.

As dealerships all over the country make a push to purchase used vehicles and increase trade-ins, the value of used vehicles has increased astronomically. That means there has never been a better time to purchase a new vehicle, as your trade-in is worth more than its ever been. If you’ve been tossing around the idea of buying a new car, you’ll want to act now before the value of your used car plummets back to pre-pandemic prices and you lose out on thousands.

You can get the best value for your used car, truck or SUV at Toyota of Abilene located in Abilene, TX. At Toyota of Abilene, they have the Abilene area’s best selection of new and pre-owned Toyota vehicles, so stop by and check out their inventory today!

Customize Your New Vehicle

Due to the semiconductor shortage, chances are you will be waiting on a new vehicle to be built and shipped to the United States before you buy it. This wait may seem like nothing but a hassle when in reality it is the best thing that could happen. Wondering why it’s the best thing that could happen? Keep reading to find out why!

While it may not seem ideal to buy a car that hasn’t yet been built, there are some advantages to doing so. A car that hasn’t been built yet means you can tailor to fit your exact needs and specifications. That means you can forego features you won’t use and add features you may not have been able to find on a specific trim of that vehicle. With the added flexibility that comes with ordering a new Toyota vehicle, it truly makes right now better than ever to buy a new vehicle.

Stop by Toyota of Abilene located in Abilene to place an order for your new Toyota vehicle today!

Reasons You Should Avoid Buying a Car in 2022

This blog would not be complete without a good counterargument. So, let’s talk about a few reasons why you may want to avoid buying a new car, truck or SUV in 2022.

Seemingly Endless Waiting Lists

One good reason to avoid purchasing a new or pre-owned vehicle in 2022 is the waiting game. Let’s face it, nobody wants to spend their hard-earned money on a vehicle they have to spend months waiting for. However, the reality of this post-pandemic world is filled with long waiting lists for new vehicles of all shapes and sizes.

If you’re considering purchasing a new car, truck or SUV, make sure to inquire about the average waiting time at your dealership of choice. Another thing to keep in mind is delays do happen, especially with the rampant issues in the global supply chain. That being said, if you place an order for a new vehicle, be prepared to be patient.

Patience is a virtue they say, and if it’s a virtue that escapes you, perhaps its best to look into a pre-owned vehicle instead. If a pre-owned vehicle is something you would consider, Toyota of Abilene has plenty of them to choose from at their Abilene location — stop by today!

Record-High Prices

An unfortunate consequence of the vehicle shortage has been the steep rise in the prices of new vehicles. With incredibly high demand and constrained supply lines, the cost of new vehicles is rising to record highs in a staggeringly short amount of time. Many new vehicles are flying off of dealership lots, sometimes for prices above the manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP).

Although interest rates are at all-time lows, it still may be wise to refrain from purchasing a new car, truck or SUV in 2022 thanks to the rising cost of new vehicles. If you want to save money and can keep driving your current vehicle, it just may be best to wait out this influx of pricing on new vehicles.

Fewer Options

Yet another drawback to purchasing a new vehicle during this shortage is the lack of available options. Due to the semiconductor shortage, vehicle manufacturers are opting to only produce certain types and trims of vehicles, leaving less variety to choose from. This is being done in an effort to keep profits where they need to be while dealing with a constrained supply of vehicles and parts.

During this shortage, you run the chance of walking onto a dealership lot and not being able to find a vehicle to fit your wants or needs. Many vehicles that are being produced right now are coming loaded with options and features, which increases the cost and makes them less appealing to budget-conscious consumers.

If you’re considering purchasing a new vehicle in these times, keep in mind that you may not get exactly what you want in a vehicle. This can be prevented with a little patience, all you have to do is simply wait out this global semiconductor shortage which should be over soon. Getting the vehicle of your dreams is still possible despite the worldwide shortage of vehicles, so don’t lose hope!

The Answer Is

Now that both sides to the argument have been made, the answer to the question “Is Buying a Car in 2022 Worth It” still remains a resounding yes. This is because the power is still in the hands of the consumer, even with the reduced supply of new and pre-owned vehicles. Consumers are more powerful than ever in the post-pandemic world, and it’s because struggling companies need every dollar they can get. Keep this in mind when shopping for your next vehicle, whether it’s new or pre-owned.

If you’re still reading and have realized that now is better than ever to buy a new vehicle, then stop by Toyota of Abilene located in Abilene, TX today! At Toyota of Abilene, they stock the Abilene, TX area’s biggest selection of new, pre-owned and certified pre-owned Toyota vehicles and sell them at the best prices. Get the best deal on your next Toyota vehicle by shopping at Toyota of Abilene located in Abilene today!

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New Toyota Vehicle

Toyota of Abilene’s Top Tips for First-Time Car Buyers.

A happy couple at Toyota of Abilene
A happy couple at Toyota of Abilene

Purchasing your very first vehicle can be exciting, however, that excitement can quickly turn to confusion if you’re not prepared ahead of time. Confusion and uncertainty when shopping for a new vehicle can lead to poor, uninformed decisions, that ultimately end up costing you money. Avoid that confusion and uncertainty by reading this list of top tips for first-time car buyers before you hit the lot!

Once you read through this fantastic list of tips, come on down to Toyota of Abilene to use your new knowledge to shop for your new vehicle.

First-Time Car Buying Tips

Figure Out Your Budget

As with most things in the world, setting a budget is one of the most important things to do first before you make any other decisions. Defining your budget makes it easier to narrow down what vehicles you can afford, preventing you from falling into the trap of stretching too far for a vehicle you can’t afford.

Before you settle on a budget for a new car, make sure to evaluate your monthly living expenses and determine from there what you can afford monthly for a vehicle. Remember to include estimates for car insurance, fuel, and vehicle maintenance in this budget, because owning a vehicle is a lot more than a monthly payment.

Once you’ve figured out what you can afford, the hard part is done, now it’s time to start the fun by searching for the right vehicle at Toyota of Abilene.

List Your Needs

Now, this may seem like the first thing to do when you’re ready to buy a new car, but without a budget in mind, many “wants” become “needs”, skyrocketing the cost of the vehicle. Define your vehicle needs by taking into consideration your occupation, daily commute, and even things like the weather around where you live.

All of these factors not only determine what kind of vehicle you will need but also influence just how much maintenance the vehicle will need as well. Living in a snowy climate may mean you need a set of winter and summer tires, whereas living in a hot, dry climate means you’ll need to pay more attention to your fluids, hoses, and belts.

After you define your needs and budget, it’s time to find dealers that carry vehicles you may want. Make your choice easier by picking from the gigantic selection of new and pre-owned Toyota vehicles available here at Toyota of Abilene, located in Abilene, TX.

Research Time

Now that you have a solid idea of what your needs are and a clear budget in mind, it’s time to start researching what vehicles are available to you. Hop online and check out sites like Cars.com, KBB.com, or Autotrader.com to get a listing of all the vehicles in your area, with filters for makes, models, and features. The best option is to visit the website of local dealerships, like Toyota of Abilene, so you can see the most up-to-date inventory information.

During your research, be sure to check out consumer reviews and reports about the vehicle you have in mind. While everyone’s experiences and reviews are different, it is a great idea to at least see if there are any common experiences or trends shared amongst owners of the vehicle you like. Finding a vehicle and having a wealth of information about that vehicle has never been easier, so take advantage of it when searching for your next vehicle.

Is a new Toyota vehicle what you’re looking for? Take a look at our vast inventory of new Toyota vehicles available online and in-store here at Toyota of Abilene, located in Abilene, TX.

Time for a Test Drive

After you decide on the perfect vehicle for you, get out there and take one for a test drive! Test driving a vehicle is one of the most important steps in a purchase, as it really gives you a taste of what owning that particular vehicle is like. While you’re test driving, make sure to get comfortable as if it was your vehicle, and drive a route similar to your daily commute for the best comparison.

When you’re making a big purchase like this, it’s important to make sure the vehicle “fits” all aspects of your lifestyle. Certain dealerships may even allow you to drive the vehicle home for a short period of time, so you can see how it fits in your garage or parking space. Make choosing the perfect vehicle easier, test drive as many vehicles as you can before you decide on one.

If you’re looking for a Toyota vehicle, shop here at Toyota of Abilene and ask your sales professional about an extended test drive. Finding the perfect Toyota vehicle is simple when you’re choosing from our huge inventory here at Toyota of Abilene.

Figure Out Financing

Financing a vehicle tends to be when first-time car buyers get confused, as it can be a detail-heavy process. As a first-time car buyer, it’s important to not get flustered, just ask questions when you’re confused and remember the finance professional is there to help you. Keep in mind that you’re simply agreeing upon how much money you’re borrowing, and how quickly you’ll be paying it back, including interest. If you keep this in mind, financing is a lot less confusing as a first-time car buyer.

If you have your eyes set on a Toyota vehicle here at Toyota of Abilene, our in-house financing professionals will help you every step of the way. At Toyota of Abilene, we work with a variety of auto lenders to make sure you get the best financing possible for your new Toyota vehicle. Choose from the best selection of Toyota vehicles, and the best lenders, only available here at Toyota of Abilene in Abilene, TX.

Drive Home Happy

The most important step in buying a car for the first time is to make sure you drive home happy. After all of your online research and in-person test drives, you should feel comfortable signing on the dotted line, knowing that not only are you getting the best deal but also the perfect vehicle for you. Unlike most purchases, you can’t return a vehicle, so ensuring that you love the vehicle before you sign is highly recommended.

Guarantee that you’ll drive home a happy first-time car buyer, by purchasing your vehicle here at Toyota of Abilene. At Toyota of Abilene, we offer the widest selection of Toyota vehicles, a top-notch team of sales professionals, and the best financing options available in Abilene, TX. There is no better place to be a first-time car buyer than at Toyota of Abilene, located in Abilene, TX. 

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New Toyota Vehicle

New for ‘22, the Toyota Corolla Cross

The all-new 2022 Toyota Corolla Cross, coming soon!

Proudly assembled in the United States, the all-new Toyota Corolla Cross is ready to hit dealership lots soon, arriving this October. Based on the best-selling Corolla, the all-new Corolla Cross is an affordable all-wheel-drive small crossover, with class-leading safety features and performance. Arriving in October, the value-priced Corolla Cross lineup will soon be available at Abilene’s favorite Toyota dealer, Lithia Toyota of Abilene. 

The All-New 2022 Toyota Corolla Cross

An SUV adaption of the world’s best-selling car ever, the Toyota Corolla, the all-new 2022 Toyota Corolla Cross looks to carry on the historic Corolla name while making a history of its own. Available in both front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel-drive (AWD), the Corolla Cross will provide peak performance attached to a 169-horsepower 2.0-liter Dynamic Force Engine. High-quality performance isn’t all the Corolla Cross has to offer, it also comes with large cargo space to fit all of life’s adventures.

The all-new Corolla Cross will be assembled at the new Mazda Toyota Manufacturing plant in Huntsville, Alabama, a facility that’s capable of pumping out up to 150,000 Corolla Cross models each year. Are you ready for your new Toyota Corolla Cross? Stop in at Lithia Toyota of Abilene located in Abilene, TX, to preorder your new Corolla Cross today!

Affordable Luxury from Tip-to-Tail

Ultra-versatile and spacious, the Corolla Cross will be available in three high-quality trim lines, the L, LE, and XLE. The well-designed Corolla Cross boasts a beautiful, yet sleek exterior design with its black grille and body accents, perfectly balancing aggressive looks and sensible design. Continuing it’s sleek and sporty look, the Corolla Cross has LED lighting in both the front and rear, with a sporty spoiler and a variety of wheel options available. With many options spanning the three trim levels, here is a quick look at what is available on the all-new Toyota Corolla Cross:

  • Wind Chill Pearl ($425 extra-color cost)
  • Celestite
  • Sonic Silver
  • Jet Black
  • Barcelona Red Metallic
  • Cypress
  • Blue Crush Metallic

Alongside its spacious interior, the Corolla Cross will also offer many of the same desirable features as its sedan and hatchback counterparts, keeping you and your passengers safe and connected. Toyota’s all-new model will come standard with heating and air conditioning vents for rear-seat passengers, with available dual-zone climate control and a power moonroof. The Corolla Cross’ spacious new interior will be available in the following colors:

  • L: Fabric-trimmed seats in Light Gray
  • LE: Fabric-trimmed seats in Light Gray or Black
  • XLE: SofTex®-trimmed seats in Macadamia/Mocha or Black

If you desire an upgraded interior with features like a 10-way power-adjustable driver’s seat with lumbar support and heated seats, you’ll have to bump up to the XLE model which also includes a rear-center armrest with two cupholders.

The Corolla Cross won’t be short on space, with 60/40-split folding rear seat standard on all trim levels for maximum cargo space. Accessing your Corolla Cross’ roomy cargo space will be a breeze with the available power liftgate with height adjustability.

Stay adventure-ready with available accessories such as a roof rack with crossbars, an activity mount for things like bicycles, a tow hitch, and even all-weather floormats. Order your all-new Toyota Corolla Cross and accessories at Lithia Toyota of Abilene located in Abilene, TX.

Big Power in a Small Package

Not short on power nor excitement, the Corolla Cross comes standard equipped with Toyota’s Dynamic Force four-cylinder, 2.0-liter, 169-horsepower engine. The small but mighty four-cylinder engine is mated to a CVT transmission with a physical first gear, creating an efficient yet exhilarating driving experience with every mile driven.

Capable of towing up to 1,500 lbs, the Corolla Cross will take you to your waterfront adventures with its ability to tow a trail and personal watercraft. True adventure begins when you get behind the wheel of the 2022 Toyota Corolla Cross.

Available with AWD, the Corolla Cross takes advantage of Toyota’s Dynamic Torque Control system, capable of directing up to 50% of power to the rear wheels when needed, being completely disengaged when not needed. Effectively operating in FWD in most instances, the Corolla Cross is able to get great fuel economy, with the AWD model getting 30 combined MPG.

In addition to its incredible powertrain, the Corolla Cross boasts a fully independent suspension system on AWD models, while the FWD models feature a brand-new torsion beam system in the rear. Making for a smooth, comfortable ride with sporty capability and ultimate safety.

Small yet mighty, the all-new Toyota Corolla Cross is built to take you anywhere. Stop in today at Lithia Toyota of Abilene located in Lithia, TX, to preorder your all-new Toyota Corolla Cross.

Stay Connected

The 2022 Corolla Cross makes staying connected simple with its Apple Car Play and Android Auto-enabled touchscreen multimedia system. Available on the L trim in a 7” touchscreen with the LE and XLE featuring an 8” touchscreen, the Corolla Cross’ multimedia system is sure to keep passengers entertained, even on the longest of trips.

Keeping your devices charged has never been easier, with all Corolla Cross models coming standard with a USB media port, with the LE and XLE models offering wireless charging and two rear passenger USB charging ports.

Corolla Cross will be available with Audio Plus multimedia with Remote Connect and a nine-speaker JBL sound system, making road trip playlists that much better with crystal clear audio. Hands-free driving is made possible with the available Amazon Alexa option, putting Amazon’s digital assistant in the virtual front seat with you. A standard three-month SiriusXM Platinum subscription will be part of the other connected features.

If you opt for the top XLE trim, you’ll receive the 7” multi-information display which displays a variety of vehicle and systems information.

Here is a standard list of features broken down by trim line:

L Grade:

  • 7” Multimedia Display
  • 4.2” MID
  • Apple CarPlay®, Android Auto™ and Amazon Alexa
  • SiriusXM® trial
  • Rear HVAC Vents
  • TSS 2.0
  • Remote Keyless Entry
  • Two USB ports
  • LED headlights and taillights
  • 17″ Steel wheels with silver wheel covers

LE Grade – L features plus:

  • 8″ Multimedia display
  • Qi-wireless charging
  • Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
  • 17″ alloy wheels
  • Roof rails
  • Smart Key with Push Button Start
  • Leather wrapped steering wheel
  • Auto climate control
  • Three USB ports
  • Color-keyed heated power outside mirrors with turn signals

XLE Grade – LE features plus:

  • 18” alloy wheels
  • 7” MID
  • SofTex®-trimmed seats
  • 10-way power driver seat with lumbar
  • Heated front seats
  • LED DRLs and fog lights
  • Rear Cross-Traffic Brake
  • Front and Rear Parking Assist with Automatic Braking
  • Dual zone climate control
  • Rear folding armrest with two cup holders
  • Leather shift knob
  • Tonneau cover

Options:

  • LE:
    • Audio Plus with JBL® 9-speaker system
    • Moonroof package
      • Moonroof
      • Tonneau cover
  • XLE:
    • Audio Plus with JBL® 9-speaker system
    • Convenience Package
      • Moonroof
      • Power rear liftgate
    • Adaptive Front Lighting System with auto-leveling

Sensible Safety

As always, modern safety is a top priority for Toyota with the all-new Corolla Cross. All trim levels will come standard with Toyota Safety Sense, a suite of advanced active safety features combined with Toyota’s STAR Safety System, providing safety and peace of mind to every driver. All trim levels will come standard with nine airbags throughout the cabin, protecting every passenger.

Advanced safety features like Blind Spot Monitoring and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert will be standard on the LE and XLE trim levels, with Front and Rear Parking Assist with Automatic Braking will only be standard on the XLE.

Toyota stands by safety, protecting their customers by equipping all trim levels with Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 and Toyota’s STAR Safety System, here is a breakdown of what all is included:

Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 includes:

  • Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian and Cyclist Detection (PCS with PD)
  • Lane Departure Alert (LDA) with Steering Assist
  • Lane Tracing Assist (LTA)
  • Road Sign Assist (RSA)
  • Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC)
  • Automatic High Beams (AHB)

The Toyota STAR Safety System includes:

  • Enhanced Vehicle Stability Control (Enhanced VSC)
  • Traction Control (TRAC)
  • Anti-lock Brake System (ABS)
  • Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD)
  • Brake Assist (BA)
  • Smart Stop Technology (SST)

With such a wide array of standard safety features and advanced safety systems, Toyota aims to keep its customers safe behind the wheel while providing an exhilarating driving experience. The 2022 Corolla Cross is packed full of great safety features, preorder your Corolla Cross today at Lithia Toyota of Abilene located in Abilene, TX.

Toyota Guaranteed

Toyota takes pride in their build quality, backing every new Toyota up with a 36-month/36,000-mile basic new-vehicle warranty that covers all components except wear and tear and maintenance items.

The 2022 Corolla Cross will also come standard with ToyotaCare, which covers normal factory-scheduled maintenance for 24-months or 25,000 miles, free of charge. Toyota will also be including two years of Roadside Assistance, regardless of mileage. These complimentary plans not only are convenient for the customer, but they inspire confidence in the customer, who knows Toyota always has their back.

Stop in at Lithia Toyota of Abilene located in Abilene, TX, today to order your all-new 2022 Toyota Corolla Cross.

Categories
Toyota News

A Toyota Milestone; 50 Million Corollas Sold.

Toyota's praised family of Corolla vehicles.
Toyota's praised family of Corolla vehicles.

After 12 generations and 55 years of production, the 50-millionth Corolla has been sold, marking a major milestone for not only Toyota but the automotive industry as a whole. Introduced to the U.S. in the spring of ‘68, the Toyota Corolla was relatively unknown to American consumers but quickly grew to be the world’s top-selling car. Known for its reliability, the Corolla earned the trust and confidence of its owners, slowly forming a long list of lifelong followers with every car sold.

Generations of Reliability

With the first Corolla rolling onto U.S. shores in 1968, Toyota immediately began to make a name for themselves amongst automakers. The first-generation Corolla was a simple, clean, yet refined design, available in coupe, four-door sedan, and two-door wagon models, with its reliability, truly paving the way to popularity. Experiencing immediate success in the U.S. market, Corolla quickly became the poster child for value and reliability in its class, while also growing to be one of Toyota’s biggest assets.

Following the massive success of the first-generation Corolla, Toyota continued with the Corolla name and has produced over 50 years’ worth of ultra-reliable vehicles. Offering more comfort, convenience, and performance with each new generation, the Corolla further solidified itself as one of the best value and most reliable vehicles in existence. Such value, performance, and safety are hard to resist, resulting in millions of Corolla owners, spanning multiple generations of a family.

As sales continued to soar, the 1973 Oil Embargo was enacted and resulted in a major fuel crisis with long lines and sky-high prices at the pump. Fuel became so expensive that fuel rationing had to be put into effect, casting fear and doubt in millions. That fear and doubt led those millions to the Corolla and its fantastic fuel efficiency, further popularizing the Corolla and carrying Toyota even closer to the top.

In the mid-80s Toyota sales had skyrocketed due to their heroic performance during the Oil Embargo, leading Toyota to build a U.S. plant for Corollas. This move to the U.S. not only increased vehicle reliability, but consumer confidence as well because Americans love anything made in the United States. With such success in producing vehicles in the U.S. Toyota has continued to manufacture vehicles there, opening up the Toyota Motor Manufacturing Mississippi, Inc. (TMMS) in 2011 which is home to Corolla production. Recently Toyota has even joined forces with Mazda and built a manufacturing plant in Huntsville, Alabama which will be the home of the all-new Toyota Corolla Cross, Toyota’s all-new crossover SUV.

Onward and Upward

After over 50 years and 50 million Corollas sold, Toyota isn’t ready to stop there. With big plans for future generations of Corolla, Toyota is sure to stay at the top of its class as it plans to continue pumping out the ultra-reliable Corolla. As mentioned, for 2022 Toyota will be releasing the Corolla Cross, a highly anticipated crossover SUV that is sure to dominate its market. The Corolla lineup is a proud family of vehicles, boasting a variety of models including sedans, a hot hatchback, hybrids, and the upcoming Corolla Cross.

Seeing its latest refresh in 2019, the Corolla is ready to keep delighting families and making memories by offering updated models to fit the modern customer. Reviving the hatchback, the 2019 refresh of the Corolla was a huge hit among Toyota enthusiasts and even earned newly loyal fans. It’s no secret that in modern times Toyota continues to be a leader and innovator, with generations of loyal customers clinging on to their every move.

Not ready to stop at 50 million Corollas sold, Toyota has its sights set on the future, aiming to put even more cars in America’s driveways as the years go on. Toyota is a leader in offering stylish, safe, efficient, and dependable vehicles that are ready to help write endless chapters in your adventure story. With the Corolla Cross coming in 2022, Toyota is ready yet again to shake up the automotive industry and forge new precedents with its foray into small compact crossover SUVs that are affordable.

Thank You

As Toyota continues to make cars, they want to take time to reflect upon the journey and thank their millions of customers. With 50 million Corollas sold, Toyota is ready to carry on into the future, making memories and traveling millions of miles along the way. Become a part of the Toyota family today, stop in at Lithia Toyota of Abilene to check out our fantastic selection of Corollas and other Toyota models. Everyone has a Corolla story, what’s yours? Share your Corolla story by using #MyCorollaStory on your social media.

Categories
Toyota News

2022 Toyota Corolla Cross Makes U.S. Debut and Expands Corolla Lineup

2022 Toyota Corolla Cross Makes U.S. Debut and Expands Corolla Lineup

For more than 50 years, Corolla has been synonymous with dependability, fuel efficiency, safety and value – and today, Toyota is evolving the series even further. Based on the ever-popular Corolla sedan, the all-new 2022 Corolla Cross, which made its U.S. debut today, is the bold compact crossover you didn’t know you needed until now.

“Our loyal customers love the quality, durability and reliability that has helped make Corolla the best-selling nameplate in history,” said Lisa Materazzo, group vice president of Toyota Marketing.  “With the all-new Corolla Cross we are building upon that foundation and offering more versatility and fun to adapt to their evolving lifestyles.”

Available in front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD), the compact SUV maximizes the inherent potential of the high-strength TNGA-C platform and a 169-horsepower, 2.0-liter Dynamic Force Engine, enabling the all-new model to achieve high-quality performance, a comfortable ride and outstanding spaciousness. What’s more, the surprising cargo capacity gives it the versatility to accommodate life’s adventures.

Well-Appointed, Yet Powerful

Spread across three grades – L, LE, and XLE – the versatile design of the Corolla Cross is spacious, modern, powerful and high-quality. From an engineering perspective, the 2022 Corolla Cross offers an approachable exterior as well as a higher line-of-sight thanks to the TNGA-C platform. Key design cues include a distinctive black grille flanked by LED lighting with black body accents – giving the entry SUV a confident stance. And from the rear, the design elements continue, with an integrated rear spoiler and LED lighting. Wheel options range from 17-inch steel on L to 18-inch alloy on XLE.

Inside, Corolla Cross’ spacious interior shares many similarities with its sedan and hatchback siblings. The all-new model can be outfitted with a power moonroof, as well as either single- or dual-zone automatic climate control, with all grades featuring standard heating and air conditioning vents for rear seat passengers.

SofTex-trimmed seating is also available, as is a 10-way, power-adjustable driver’s seat with lumbar and heated front seats.

In back, storage space can be maxed out thanks to the 60/40-split folding rear seats that come standard on all grades, while XLE models also include a center armrest with two cupholders. And to make access to the roomy cargo area even more convenient, the Corolla Cross has an available power liftgate with height adjustability.

Corolla Cross will also be available with accessories that expand its capability including a roof rack with crossbars, an activity mount for carrying items, such as bicycles and all-weather floormats.

Small But Mighty

Who says a crossover has to feel small? The Corolla Cross is equipped with the mighty 2.0L Dynamic Force engine and Direct Shift CVT from Corolla sedan’s sportier “S” grades. That means a punchy 169 horsepower and a physical first gear that provides a truly engaging driving experience, all while providing exceptional efficiency.

Corolla Cross’ suspension also plays a role here, as it’s fully independent for all-wheel-drive models, while front-wheel-drive vehicles feature a brand-new torsion beam system in the rear.

Additionally, every Corolla Cross is capable of towing up to 1,500 lbs.

And for those who choose AWD, Toyota’s clever Dynamic Torque Control system can direct up to 50% of power to the rear wheels when it’s needed – and disengages completely when it’s not. This feature helps Corolla Cross maintain great fuel economy estimates – another strong suit for this powertrain – with an estimated 32 combined MPG for the FWD model and an estimated 30 combined MPG for the AWD model.

Connected and Charged Up for the Long Drive

Inside Corolla Cross, advanced technology does not disappoint. This includes an available 7-inch Multi-Information Display with a digital instrumentation layout and an available 8-inch multimedia touchscreen. The ease of use and vast range of in-car entertainment and connected functionalities, including standard compatibility for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, will be sure to keep passengers occupied. Mobile devices will stay topped off through wireless charging (standard on LE and XLE), or through the conveniently located USB media port. LE and XLE grades offer two USB charging ports for rear seat passengers, welcoming all devices along for the drive.

The available Audio Plus multimedia with Remote Connect and a nine-speaker JBL® sound system is the perfect complement to a road trip playlist. And when it’s time to turn on the tunes, Amazon Alexa connectivity keeps Amazon’s digital assistant just a question away. Other connected features include a standard three-month SiriusXM All Access trial subscription to more than 300 channels accessible throughout the country.

Safety

True to Toyota form, modern safety is key for Corolla Cross. That’s why all grades come standard with both the Toyota Safety Sense suite of advanced active safety systems, as well as Toyota’s signature STAR Safety System.

Blind Spot Monitor and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert come standard on LE and XLE, while Front and Rear Parking Assist with Automatic Braking is standard on XLE. And nine airbags are mounted throughout the cabin to help protect occupants.

Source Article: https://pressroom.toyota.com/2022-toyota-corolla-cross-makes-u-s-debut-and-expands-corolla-lineup/