2007 Toyota Yaris Sedan Review

Available as a 4-door sedan or a 2-door hatchback, the 2007 Yaris is Toyota's subcompact replacement for the Echo. The Yaris price, 34/40 MPG fuel economy, good looks, and respectable performance specs, make it great basic transportation. Toyota engineered the Yaris with a rigid frame and soundproofing features to give it a more comfortable ride than its price suggests.

The Toyota Yaris comes with a 106 hp 4 cylinder engine coupled to a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic transmission. Safety features include optional ABS, front seat side-impact airbags and side curtain airbags for head protection. Comfort comes in the form of deeply contoured seats and easily accessible, intuitive cabin controls and overall attention to detail.

Standard on the 2007 Toyota Yaris are: air conditioning, power steering, power front disc brakes, tilt steering wheel, four-way adjustable front seats, intermittent wipers, rear center headrest, driver and front passenger vanity mirrors, front and rear cup holders, driver side glove compartment, two passenger side glove compartments, digital clock, UV glass, folding rear seat, tonneau cover, map light. You'll also appreciate the options available on the 2007 Yaris including remote entry and power windows, locks, and mirrors.

Toyota engineers made every effort to dispel the myth that a car in Yaris' price range will not be well-built or fun to drive. On the road, the Toyota Yaris exhibits a smooth ride, even at 80 mph. The car shifts smoothly and responds admirably throughout the driving range. The Yaris should stand up well in its segment, including Honda Fit, Nissan Versa, and Kia Rio.

2007 Toyota Yaris Hatchback Review

Available as a 4-door sedan or a 2-door hatchback, the 2007 Yaris is Toyota's subcompact replacement for the Echo. The Yaris price, 34/40 MPG fuel economy, good looks, and respectable performance specs, make it great basic transportation. Toyota engineered the Yaris with a rigid frame and soundproofing features to give it a more comfortable ride than its price suggests.

The Toyota Yaris comes with a 106 hp 4 cylinder engine coupled to a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic transmission. Safety features include optional ABS, front seat side-impact airbags and side curtain airbags for head protection. Comfort comes in the form of deeply contoured seats and easily accessible, intuitive cabin controls and overall attention to detail.

Standard on the 2007 Toyota Yaris are: a/c, p/s, power front discs, positionable steering wheel, deluxe front seats, fold-down rear seat, and tonneau cover. You'll also appreciate the options available on the 2007 Yaris including remote entry and power windows, locks, and mirrors.

Toyota engineers made every effort to dispel the myth that a car in Yaris' price range will not be well-built or fun to drive. On the road, the Toyota Yaris exhibits a smooth ride, even at 80 mph. The car shifts smoothly and responds admirably throughout the driving range. The Yaris should stand up well in its segment, including Honda Fit, Nissan Versa, and Kia Rio.

2007 Toyota Tundra Review

If you are looking for a truck with strength, stamina, and hauling capacity, the 2007 Toyota Tundra may be the pickup truck for you. Tundra is a full-size pickup truck which offers three trim levels: Regular Cab, Double Cab, and Crew Cab to carry all your equipment and your crew to the job and back. The 2007 Tundra runs with a 4.0 liter V6 that stirs up 236 hp @5200 rpm and 266 lb.-ft. torque. It also offers 4.7 and 5.7 V8 power to those whose needs outstrip common sense, or who require extra towing power. Standard on this truck is a 5-speed transmission with overdrive, or optional 6-speed automatic.

Looking for creature comforts, well the new Tundra is there with nice fabric seats, unless you require leather trimmed buckets, adjustable headrests, and vinyl flooring or real carpet. Tundra is no slouch when it comes to standard equipment either. Just look at this list: power adjustable mirrors, tailgate assist, rail caps, chrome steel rear bumper, and power sliding rear window. The 2007 Tundra is a truck that is engineered with the operator and the job in mind. For 2007, the Toyota Tundra offers optional items that make your truck even more enjoyable to drive, such as: bucket seats, multifunction rear mirror, temp gauge for the transmission, and 6-disc in dash CD changer.

Imagine all the possible mishaps that can happen to you or your truck and you realize that safety is a paramount consideration. Toyota thinks so too, and accounts for that with the following safety features: a tire pressure monitoring system that alerts you when your rubber has a leak, traction control, ABS, front passenger cutoff switch, and child protection safety system. The 2007 Tundra is a joy to drive with great handling and excellent ride. Interior room in the Tundra is generous, enabling workers to keep on tool belts and head gear when riding.

All of this provides ample evidence that the 2007 Toyota Tundra is every bit as worthy of the title of full-size work truck as its competitors with Detroit nameplates. Everything about this truck lives up to the name, including having all knobs, handles, and storage conform to use with a gloved hand. Having your office in your truck is easier than ever with storage compartments that look more like a file cabinet than a map cubby. Look for the Tundra to step up to the other trucks in its segment and spit right in their eye.

2007 Toyota Tacoma PreRunner Review

The 2007 Toyota Tacoma is a mid-size pickup truck that comes in the following trim levels: Regular Cab, Access Cab, Double Cab, and X-Runner. The 2007 Regular Cab truck comes standard with a 2.7 liter 4-cylinder engine which develops 159 hp @ 5200 rpm with 180 lb.-ft. torque @3800 rpm. The 2007 Access Cab and Double Cab Pre-Runner are set up with a 2.7 liter 4-cylinder engine or optional 4.0 liter v6 which creates 236 hp @ 5200 rpm, with 266 lb.-ft. @4000 rpm. All models are connected to a standard 5-speed manual transmission with overdrive, with a 6-speed optional on some models.

The bed of the 2007 Tacoma, 6-foot long on most models, has an inner shell of reinforced composite material. The outer panels, compartments, and removable tailgate are all steel. All external grille and details are black plastic. Some models come with black overfenders, skid plates, fog lamps, and mudflaps. The Tacoma has evolved into a tough, durable work truck that looks good no matter how dirty it gets. Standard on most trucks are cloth front fold-forward seats, bulkhead storage, and full carpeting. Optional choices on the 2007 Toyota Tacoma include 16 or 17-inch alloy wheels, variable-slip differential, and Daytime Running Lights.

An advanced front and passenger airbag system is a key component of the safety system on every Tacoma. Along with that, you can expect your Tacoma to have 4-wheel anti-lock brakes, a child restraint system, and power window lock-out. We are impressed that, over the years, the Tacoma has matured into a more road worthy, safe, and durable truck, with improved protection for its passengers.

The fuel efficient 4-cylinder engine powering the Tacoma boasts 23 mpg city, 28 mpg highway. At home on the street or offroad, the 2007 Toyota Tacoma is engineered to handle most off-road driving situations. Safe driving habits are always recommended. The Toyota Tacoma drives nicely and cruises comfortably. Even with its higher stance, it handles well on twists and turns. Sporty models such as the X-Runner can be great fun off-road.

2007 Toyota Tacoma Review

The 2007 Toyota Tacoma is a mid-size pickup truck that comes in the following trim levels: Regular Cab, Access Cab, Double Cab, and X-Runner. The 2007 Regular Cab truck comes standard with a 2.7 liter 4-cylinder engine which develops 159 hp @ 5200 rpm with 180 lb.-ft. torque @3800 rpm. The 2007 Access Cab and Double Cab Pre-Runner are set up with a 2.7 liter 4-cylinder engine or optional 4.0 liter v6 which creates 236 hp @ 5200 rpm, with 266 lb.-ft. @4000 rpm. All models are connected to a standard 5-speed manual transmission with overdrive, with a 6-speed optional on some models.

The bed of the 2007 Tacoma, 6-feet long on most models, has inner shells of reinforced composite material. The outer panels, compartments, and removable tailgate are all steel. All external grille and details are black plastic. Some models come with black overfenders, skid plates, fog lamps, and mudflaps. The Tacoma has evolved into a tough, durable work truck that looks good no matter how dirty it gets. Standard on most trucks are cloth fold-forward front seats, bulkhead storage, and full carpeting. Optional choices on the 2007 Toyota Tacoma include 16 or 17-inch alloy wheels, variable-slip differential, and Daytime Running Lights.

An advanced front and passenger airbag system is a key component of the safety system on every Tacoma. Along with that, you can expect your Tacoma to have 4-wheel anti-lock brakes, a child restraint system, and power window lock-out. We are impressed that, over the years, the Tacoma has matured into a more road worthy, safe, and durable truck, with improved protection for its passengers.

The fuel efficient 4-cylinder engine powering the Tacoma boasts 23 mpg city, 28 mpg highway. At home on the street or off-road, the 2007 Toyota Tacoma is engineered to handle most driving situations. Safe driving habits are always recommended. The Toyota Tacoma drives nicely and cruises comfortably. Even with its higher stance, it handles well on twists and turns. Sporty models such as the X-Runner can be great fun off-road.

2007 Toyota Sienna Review

The 2007 Toyota Sienna is a minivan which offers 4 trim levels, the Sienna CE, LE, XLE, and Sienna Limited. All vehicles ship with a 3.5 liter V6 that pumps out 266 hp @ 6200 rpm and 245 lb.-ft. torque @4700 rpm. A 5-speed automatic transmission is standard on the Sienna, which is front wheel drive, with all wheel drive available on the non-base models. With an enhanced powerplant and seating for seven or eight, the 2007 Sienna is just about the ideal minivan.

Two second row seating modules are available, one for 7-passenger models and another for 8-passenger models, as well as cruise control, and an item called a conversation mirror in its overhead console. It's really a good idea for parents who need to be vigilant of the goings-on in the rear seats. It allows the driver or front passenger to "spy" on the kids in the back through an innocuous-looking convex mirror, without having to swivel the head around.

There are plenty of storage areas in the Sienna including ones to hold maps, coins, sunglasses, CDs, bottles, and stun gun. The 2007 Toyota Sienna comes with extra stereo output jacks, automatic door locks, and a digital quartz clock.

The 2007 Toyota Sienna boasts some of the most widely praised safety features in the automobile industry. The interior of the Sienna would look like a padded cell if all of the airbags were to inflate simultaneously. The Sienna comes with front passenger and driver airbags, and side curtain airbags for the back seats. With beefy steel body panels and front and rear crumple zones, the Sienna is a study in applied metallurgy. Indispensable to safety is the tire pressure monitoring system, the theft inhibitor engine disabler system, and the sliding door locks.

The exterior of the 2007 Toyota Sienna is as well-conceived as the interior, with stylish matching paint to the handles, dent guards, and bumper. All minivans need a roof rack and this one you will use someday, probably for the holiday tree, the rubber raft, or for the in-laws. For the AWD Sienna they are: 18 mpg city and 23 mpg highway. Toyota looks like it is back to being a contender in the minivan segment with upgrades to the 2007 Sienna that put it right back near the top.

2007 Toyota Sequoia Review

The 2007 Sequoia is Toyota's largest SUV with seating for eight and comes in two trim levels, the SR5 and Limited. Both are powered by a 4.7 liter V8 which provides 273 hp @5400 rpm and 314 lb.-ft. torque @3400 rpm. The transmission in the Sequoia is a 5-speed automatic with overdrive.

The interior of the Toyota Sequoia offers abundant room and marvelous comfort touches, including front captain chairs that are fully adjustable, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, fully automatic climate control, ten speaker sound system, and full instrumentation. All this adds up to Sequoia catering to your every need and whim. If that is not enough, the 2007 Sequoia also offers as optional equipment a 6-disc CD player, and DVD navigation system. We were also impressed with the power rear window, lit entry system, ample map illumination, and the 12v accessory power supply.

A quick walk around the 2007 Sequoia reveals well-designed external packaging that comes with colored fender extensions, tinted glass, rear darkened privacy glass, and generously large mudflaps. Toyota has engineered a vehicle which stands as a fortress for the protection of its occupants with an almost inexhaustible list of safety features. Confirm this for yourself by noting the anti-lock brakes, pitch and yaw control, flip-over triggering curtain airbags, child seat belt rings, and front crumple zone. How many vehicles do you know of that offer 3-point seat belts in all eight of the seats? As if this were not enough, the 2007 Toyota Sequoia comes with optional daytime running lights, an anti-theft ignition device, and side-impact door beams.

Both the 2WD and the 4WD versions of the Toyota Sequoia boast the same fuel economy numbers, 15 mpg city and 18 mpg highway. The Sequoia is enjoyable to drive, with surprising agility and quickness. The big SUV corners well and absorbs all but the largest bumps with minimum noise. Toyota is gambling with the 2007 Sequoia's increase in size, hoping that consumers will still want a non-midget SUV despite the gluttonous, usurious behavior of EXXON, et al.

2007 Toyota RAV4 Review

The 2007 Toyota RAV4 is a small-to-midsize SUV that is capable of seating seven. The RAV4 comes in three trim levels, base, Sport, and Limited and is powered by a standard 2.4 liter 4-cylinder engine which offers 166 hp @6000 rpm and 165 lb.-ft. torque @4000 rpm or an optional 3.5 liter V6 which offers 269 hp @6200 rpm and 246 lb.-ft. torque @4700 rpm. This year's RAV4 increases in length by about a foot and sports a new safety feature, the Hill-start Assist Control which holds the vehicle for a few seconds while facing uphill, preventing the vehicle from rolling backward. It should be a great help to parallel parking on steep San Francisco hillsides.

The 2007 RAV4 comes standard with fabric-trimmed seats or optional leather on the Limited. In addition, Toyota has installed cruise control, an adjustable steering wheel, remote keyless entry, air conditioning, a highly visible instrument array, and power windows as standard. We like the stylish rear spoiler and high positioned stop lamp.

Toyota lives up to its commitment to safety by equipping all of its RAV4s with traction control, ABS, stability control, tire pressure monitoring, driver and front passenger airbags, 4-wheel disc brakes, side impact door beams, child seat restraint rings, and front crumple zone. The ride is sporty, especially when the RAV4 is equipped with the V6. All driving parameters are optimal, with handling crisp and responsive.

Driving the 2007 Toyota RAV4 will be less of a burden on the environment than some of the larger SUVs Toyota makes, with fuel economy in the good range. The 4-cylinder 2WD RAV4 gets 24 mpg city 30 mpg highway, while the 4-cylinder 4WD RAV4 gets 23 mpg city 30 mpg highway. The 6-cylinder 2WD RAV4 gets 22 mpg city 29 mpg highway while the 6-cylinder 4WD RAV4 gets 21 mpg city 28 mpg highway.

2008 Toyota Prius Review

For the coming model year the base price of the 2008 Toyota Prius has fallen to $20,950 with the Touring edition selling for $23,220. Producing 110 horsepower in its gas-electric combo mode, the Prius will make the zero to 60 jump in 10.2 seconds, more than respectable for a hybrid just pushing the limit of a designation as "mid-sized."

Technically, the Prius is a four-door family sedan with room for five. There are three available trim levels (Base, 4-Door Liftback, Touring), all powered by a 1.5-liter I4 hybrid engine with a variable automatic transmission with overdrive. Overall combined fuel efficiency stands at 55 mpg, but start-and-stop city driving could return as high as 80 mpg. Long the dean of hybrid automobiles, the Prius puts out 89 percent fewer emissions than average vehicles, a rating which actually exceeds the Super Ultra Low Emission Vehicle standards.

Standard features on the Prius include power rack and pinion steering and a tilt steering column. All wheel anti-lock brakes with electronic brake assist and brake force distribution are present. Traction control, a full array of air bags including those in the head curtain position for the front and rear side, the LATCH sysem for child safety seats, child safety door locks on the rear doors, and keyless entry on a multi-function remote are all included.

The base upholstery on the 2008 Toyota Prius is cloth with the front seats being dual reclining buckets. The rear seat is a 60/40 bench that splits and folds. The 201.6-volt nicel-metal hydride battery is located in the trunk, but there is still underfloor storage available in the cargo area. An AM/FM combo unit with six speakers and a CD player is standard.

2008 Toyota Matrix Review

Under the hood, both trim levels of the 2008 Matrix are the same. They come equipped with a 126 horsepower, 1.8 liter DOHC 4-cylinder engine that provides 122 pounds/feet of torque at 4200 rpm. The standard transmission for either version of the car is a five-speed manual, but both are available with an optional four-speed automatic as well. (The manual gets better fuel efficiency, of course.). Neither trim level comes with either anti-lock brakes or any kind of stability or traction control as a standard feature, but all those systems are available as upgrades across the line. There is no option for four-wheel drive on either trim.

Cosmetically, the 2008 Toyota Matrix XR is a bit nicer than the base model, but most of the differences are in subtle details. For example, on the XR the door handles, rocker panels, and side mirrors are colored to match the body of the car, while on the base model they are black, and the XR also has an option for body-colored underbody spoilers in the front and back. Likewise, both trims come with 16-inch steel wheels, with an available upgrade to alloy, but only the XR has an option for 17-inch alloy wheels. For that matter the powered moon roof is only available on the XR as well.

Inside the Toyota Matrix, both trims come with four-way adjustable front seats (driver and passenger) and a front passenger seat that folds flat, for ease in transporting long objects. The back seat is a fairly standard 60/40 split bench. Both models come with an array of gauges, including monitoring systems for the airbags and tire pressure, but power door locks are optional, and only the XR has an option for power windows.

Safety features on the 2008 Toyota Matrix include an engine immobilizer and front airbags for both the driver and front passenger, but side impact bags of any kind are available only as optional upgrades on both models.

2007 Toyota Land Cruiser Review

The 2007 Toyota Land Cruiser is a large-size SUV that seats 8 and offers just one trim level, the base model. Powering the 2007 Land Cruiser is the same powerplant that pushes it luxury counterpart, the Lexus LX470, a 4.7 liter V8 which provides 265 hp @5400 rpm and 310 lb.-ft torque @3400 rpm. Its transmission is a 5-speed automatic with overdrive. The vehicle is mounted on a massive 9-rung ladder frame.

The leather-wrapped steering wheel houses the audio controls. A power sunroof and Homelink transceiver are overhead. The Land Cruiser also sports a keyless remote system, cruise control, and numerous storage compartments. The Land Cruiser's seats are leather-trimmed and fully automatic. Although the Toyota Land Cruiser is not lacking much in the way of amenities, there are a few aftermarket accessories that will make sense of an already pampered life. Who can do without a rear seat DVD entertainment system or a cargo mat to keep your antiques from soiling the cargo area.

The 2007 Toyota Land Cruiser is a large-size SUV that comes with all the segment-leading safety features available including: ABS, traction control, stability control, and a tire pressure monitoring system. For 2007, the Land Cruiser is equipped with front airbags, a theft deterrent system, child safety belt attachments, and daytime lights. Massive side impact door beams are standard on the new Land Cruiser.

It is not the purpose of the 2007 Toyota Land Cruiser to save the environment, just to propel people through it stylishly. The fuel economy numbers for this vehicle reflect this single vision: 13 mpg city and 17 mpg highway. For comfort and attention to detail, Toyota can take the Land Cruiser to the bank. It has a luxurious ride and handles well. Toyota dealers are expecting a brisk sales season.

2007 Toyota Highlander Hybrid Review

The keyword for the 2007 Toyota Highlander is "sophisticated." The Highlander is a car-based 7-passenger SUV which is offered in 5 trim levels, Base, Sport, Limited, Hybrid, and Hybrid Limited. A 2.4 liter 4-cylinder engine which produces 155 hp @5700 rpm and 162 lb.-ft. torque @ 4000 rpm is standard on the base model. A 3.3 liter V6 producing 215 hp @ 5600 rpm and 222 lb.-ft. torque @ 3600 rpm runs the Sport and Limited and is optional on the base. A 3.3 liter V6 producing 208 hp @ 5600 rpm and 212 lb.-ft. torque @4400 rpm powers the two Hybrid models in conjunction with a 165 hp electric motor which develops 247 lb.-ft. torque @ 0-1500 rpm.

All models of the Highlander offer standard power windows, remote keyless entry, cruise control, digital quartz clock, and overhead panel with map illumination. A third seat makes 7-passenger seating possible. Many options are available on the Highlander including a rear seat DVD entertainment system, navigation system, heated seats, and power moonroof.

The Highlander is a family SUV and Toyota takes extra care ensuring the safety of its occupants. Traction control, anti-lock brakes, and stability control are part of an integrated safety system Toyota has developed. Look for the tire pressure monitoring system, front and rear crumple zones, and side-impact door beams to play a major role in your family's safety in the 2007 Highlander.

With good highway coordination and handling, body roll in the Highlander is surprisingly negligible. The big SUV is easy to drive but seems to labor on acceleration from a stop. Depending on the model, fuel economy spans a range from marginal to good. Gas mileage is 22 mpg city, 28 mpg highway for the 4-cylinder, 19 mpg city, 25 mpg highway for the V6, and 32 mpg city, 27 mpg highway for the hybrid.

2008 Toyota Highlander Review

The 2008 Toyota Highlander, offered in three trim levels plus a hybrid, represents the second generation of this mid-sized SUV. Like its relative the RAV4, it has grown a bit for this model year, and is now about three inches wider and four inches longer than last year's model.

With a starting MSRP of $27,300 for the base level (Sport and LTD trims are $29,950 and $32,700 respectively), the gasoline Highlander comes standard with a 3.5 liter 270 horsepower V6 engine, providing 248 lb/ft of torque, and matched with a five-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel-drive is the default, but four-wheel-drive is available. If the optional tow package is added, the Highlander has a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds.

Inside the car, the 2008 Toyota Highlander offers a choice of seating for five or seven, with bucket seats in front and captain's chairs in the second row, which also features Toyota's new "Center Stow" seat for the middle position - it's not a cushy captain's chair, but it can be removed when not in use. Seating for seven is achieved with a third-row seat that holds two, and can be folded into the floor. Available options for in-cabin comfort and convenience include keyless entry and remote start-up technology, as well as a navigational system, leather upholstery, and a six-CD stereo system, as well as an entertainment system with a nine-inch flip-down screen for the back rows.

The Highlander's safety features have been expanded, and now include a standard seven airbags, including knee protection for the driver, and side curtain bags for all three rows of passengers. An electronic stability control system is standard, and the hood and front fenders are now designed to buckle if one should hit a pedestrian, but the rearview camera is an optional upgrade.

The 2008 Toyota Highlander is classified as an ultra-low emissions vehicle (ULEV) and has estimated fuel efficiency of 18 - city/24 highway for the 2WD version and 17/23 for the 4WD. A hybrid option is also available and will be reviewed separately.

2008 Toyota FJ Cruiser Review

The rugged 2008 Toyota FJ Cruiser SUV is designed to appeal to those of us with Hummer lust and no pocketbook to match. Slightly boxy with a big front nose and a molded rear end over squared wheel wells, the SUV is available in three trims (4x2, 4x4 MT, and 4x4 AT.) The FJ Cruiser carries an MSRP range of $22,545 to $24,135.

Technically we're talking about a four-door sport utility vehicle with room for five, but the Cruiser is a bit more than that. The base model has a 4-liter V6 under the hood equipped with a five-speed automatic transmission and producing 239 horsepower. Expect to get about 16 miles to the gallon driving around town and 20 out on the road. In theory the FJ Cruiser is a "mid-sized" SUV, but one with a commanding profile and more than enough interior room for any task or trip you want to tackle.

The list of standard features is pretty sweet -- side airbags mounted in the front seats, curtain bags on the side with technology to detect rollovers, and a system to monitor pressure in the tires. Inside look for an AM/FM/CD combo with MP3 and WMA capability playing over six speakers. The cabin air conditioner is filtered and there are two heating ducts in the rear -- a nice extra for colder climates.

Toyota chose material for all the seats that is water repellent. The back seat splits and fold on the conventional 60/40 arrangement. When it's down you pick up about 66 cu. ft. of storage space and the floor is covered in rubber making clean-ups a breeze. All the locks, including the one for the tailgate, are powered as are the windows. (The back window is a flip-up hatch as well.)

Drivers who opt for the Off-Road Package on the 2008 FJ Cruiser will pick up a system for active traction control, rear differential lock on models with the five-speed automatic transmission, and Bilstein shock absorbers front and rear. The P265/75R16 BF Goodrich tires are perfect for mud and snow and look tough on the 16" alloy wheels. Add privacy glass, cruise control, a sensor for backing up, a rack on the roof, powered mirrors, and a metallic shift knob and you're not just off-road, you're off-road with style. (Added instrumentation with this package includes outside temp, inclinometer, and compass.)

2008 Toyota Corolla Review

Representing the ninth generation of the popular car, the 2008 Toyota Corolla is available in three trim levels, the CE, S, and LE, as well as a special 20th Anniversary Edition designed solely for the Canadian market.

All trim levels of the Corolla come with the same engine, a 1.8 liter, 126 horsepower DOHC 4-cylinder providing 122 pounds/feet of torque at 4200 rpm. All come standard with a five-speed manual transmission with overdrive, and all all have an optional upgrade to a four-speed ECT (electronically controlled) automatic transmission with overdrive. Anti-lock brakes are available only as an option, across the line, while vehicle stability and traction control systems are available options only on the S and LE trims.

Cosmetically, the exterior of the 2008 Toyota Corolla is not dissimilar to the Camry, just scaled down. It comes standard with 15-inch steel wheels, but aluminum wheels are available as an upgrade on the LE edition. The head lights are halogen, with smoked lenses on the S trim, and the tail lights are actually partly mounted inside the trunk lid. The S also has fog lamps, a front spoiler, and side rocker panels that match the body color.

Inside the Corolla, the relatively long (102.4 inches) wheelbase for a compact provides a little extra room for back seat passengers, and prevents the rear wheel wells from protruding uncomfortably far into the back doors. Front passengers won't feel cramped, either, unless they're unusually tall. While the Corolla technically seats five, and provides a middle seat belt in the back seat, which can fold down in a 60/40 split, a long trip with three adults in the back would be a bit tight.

Other features of the 2008 Toyota Corolla include a heavy-duty defroster for the rear window, front and back cup holders, CFC-free air conditioning, and an inside light for the trunk. The standard AM/FM radio/CD player comes with four speakers in the CE, and six in the S and LE trims. Safety features include airbags, and pressure monitoring systems for the oil and tires.

The 2008 Toyota Corolla's fuel efficiency is estimated at 28 mpg in the city and 37 mpg on the highway with the manual transmission, and 26/35 with the automatic. These numbers are the same for all trims.

2007 Toyota Camry Solara Review

The 2007 Toyota Camry Solara is a 2-door coupe that ships in 4 trim levels, the base Coupe, Sport Coupe, SLE Coupe, and the SE Convertible. All versions of the Solara are powered with a standard 2.4 liter 4-cylinder engine that pumps out 155 hp @ 6000 rpm and 158 lb.-ft. torque @ 4000 rpm. As an option, all models are available with a 3.3 V6 that blasts out 210 hp @6000 rpm and 220 lb.-ft. torque @ 3600 rpm. A new convertible in the stable for Toyota will make buyer choices a bit more interesting.

The 2007 Toyota Camry Solara has wonderful aerodynamic styling and offers many features that add to its sporty appeal including standard integrated fog lamps, and luscious LED rear lights. Carrying over onto the interior are sporty styling cues such as power windows, cruise control, and futuristic instrumentation. Add the security of a remote keyless entry system and power automatic door locks and you have a fully mature driving system. Toyota even installed standard a 60/40 split fold-down rear seat for added utility.

A sport coupe such as Solara demands concomitant safety features consistent with its performance specs. Any performance vehicle such as the 2007 Solara should have standard anti-lock brakes, traction control, and stability control. Advanced airbag systems such as that found on the Solara have a proven track record of saving lives and minimizing serious injuries. The addition of side curtain airbags has been very helpful in preventing injuries in side-impact collisions. Covering all the bases with the tire pressure monitoring system and the theft preventing engine immobilizer put the 2007 Camry Solara in great shape for just about any highway situation.

The fuel economy specs for the 2007 Toyota Camry Solara show 24 mpg city and 34 mpg highway for models with the manual transmission. The 4-cylinder models with automatic transmission report 25 mpg city and 34 mpg highway, while the 6-cylinder models with automatic transmission achieve 21 mpg city and 29 mpg highway. The Solara is an enjoyable car to drive with alert performance and capable handling. Its quiet road presence should make it a favorite for those who cherish the serenity of a country drive with the top down.

2007 Toyota Avalon

The 2007 Avalon is Toyota's luxury flagship 4-door sedan. It ships in 4 trim levels, the XL, Touring, XLS, and the Avalon Limited. All models come with a 3.5 liter 24-valve V6, producing 268 hp @6200 rpm and 248 lb.-ft. @4700 rpm. The Avalon shifts smoothly through an electronically controlled 5-speed automatic transmission. You can expect a high level of quality in the exterior details, such as color-keyed bumpers, and dual exhaust pipes.

The interior of the 2007 Toyota Avalon is quite comfortable with its audio and climate controls mounted on a manually adjustable steering wheel. Look for a very convenient center console with cup holders and map cubby. A glance forward to the dash reveals a highly functional display, including trip information, temperature, and interior climate control. How many times will you thank Toyota for including an anti-lockout feature coupled with its multifunction remote keyless system and power door locks. All your convenience needs are met with the Avalon, including a digital quartz clock.

Safety features are in abundance in the 2007 Avalon, starting with 4-wheel disc brakes with ABS, driver and front airbags, front and rear side curtain airbags, a driver's knee airbag, and tire pressure monitoring system. Special child safety equipment is included, like the child proof rear door locks and rear seat anchors for your child seat. Add to that, a convenient interior trunk release for those wild Las Vegas nights.

The 2007 Toyota Avalon lives up to its promise of a premium quality car, with comfort, styling, performance, and safety to equal or surpass any American sedan. You will not go broke as you fly down the highway either, with mileage estimates of 22 city, 31 highway. Priced competitively, there are still many other options that can stir your flight of fancy including a moonroof, a voice activated DVD navigation system, and anti-theft system. The 2007 Avalon leaves one relaxed and refreshed after a long drive, as it fulfills its promise of a quiet and comfortable ride.

2007 Toyota 4Runner Review

The 2007 Toyota 4Runner, a 4-door SUV capable of seating seven, comes in three trim levels, SR5, Sport Edition and Limited. Drive train on the 4Runner begins with a 4.0 liter V6 that grabs 236 hp @ 5200 rpm, 266 ft.-lb. torque @ 4000 rpm, and a 4.7 liter V8 that ponys up 260 hp @ 5400 rpm, 306 lb.-ft. torque. Standard transmission for the 4Runner is a 5-speed automatic with overdrive. The 2007 4Runner plans to show that it can keep right up with the toughest SUVs in the pack.

The interior of the new 4Runner is thoughtfully configured, with ample storage, roomy passenger areas, and comfortable seating. Standard equipment on the 4Runner includes: hillstart and downhill assist, skid plates, 60/40 split bench, rear seat armrests with cupholders, and power door locks. For a go-anywhere, do-anything vehicle, the 2007 4Runner is admirably equipped to handle the comfort and convenience needs of its passengers. Add the following optional features to completely trick out your new SUV: 6-disc CD changer, rear seat DVD system, two level net cargo system, auto dim rear view mirror, and 115 AC outlet.

Charging over mountain tops and through riverbeds, safety is something that is engineered into every square centimeter of the new 4Runner, like Traction Control, ABS, side impact front and rear door beams, child protection door locks and seat belt anchors, and daytime running lights. Everything on the 2007 Toyota 4Runner is engineered carefully and purposely to provide a safe and pleasurable driving experience.

Performance is another important feature the Toyota 4Runner has thoroughly implemented. 4Runner produces, through its standard V6 or optional V8, a confident level of passing power. Keeping in mind its truck based frame, the 2007 4Runner commands a surprisingly agile feel on the road. Cornering is crisp without appreciable lean, while the suspension absorbs most bumps and vibrations. You will not be too surprised at the fuel economy of the 4Runner, with 18 mpg city and 22mpg highway for the V6 and 17mpg city and 20 mpg highway for the V8. Some private owners are disappointedly reporting lower than stated fuel economy results.

2008 Toyota Camry Hybrid Review

The 2008 Toyota Camry Hybrid is a four-door, five-passenger sedan with a base price of $25,200. Equipped with a 2.4-liter I4 hybrid-engine (with variable speed automatic transmission), the Camry promises to return as much as 40 miles per gallon in town where "start and stop" driving takes maximum advantage of the hybrid technology and approximately 38 out on the road.

Largely a carry-over from 2007, the year of its introduction, the Camry offers a larger and heavier alternative to the popular Toyota Prius. The hybrid Camry has more than respectable "get up and go," making the jump from zero to sixty in 7.7 seconds. In its place in the overall Camry line, the Hybrid is the most full-featured with luxury options including a navigation system, moonroof, leather upholstery, and heated seats in the front.

The safety features are impressive including a full array of airbags (front, side-impact, curtains both front and rear, and a knee bag for the driver.) Systems are in place for monitoring tire pressure and vehicle stability and the Camry is equipped with anti-lock brakes, brake assist, and brake-force distribution.

The 2008 Camry Hybrid offers the same spacious interior as its predecessor. Expect dual zone temperature control, a quick-start system, MP3 playback, and more than adequate cargo space. (No room is sacrificed to the hybrid system's battery.) If you've driven a Camry in the past, things won't feel that different behind the wheel of the hybrid. If you like the idea of a "green" car but the Prius just looks too small, the Camry hybrid is an excellent alternative with the same great Toyota technology in place.

2008 Toyota Camry Review

The Camry has long been Toyota's most popular offering, and even though the model was completely updated last year, the 2008 Toyota Camry has been rolled out with a few minor changes, and a price increase of $100 for each version.

The 2008 Camry is offered in four trim levels, the base model, LE, SE, and XLE. All come standard with a 158 horsepower 2.4 liter 4-cylinder DOHC engine that provides 161 pounds-feet of torque. All but the XLE come standard with a 5-speed manual transmission, while the default transmission for the XLE is a 5-speed automatic, which is available as an option on the other three trims. As well, there are V-6 editions of the top three trims, which come powered by a 268 horsepower, 3.5 liter DOHC V-6, mated with a 6-speed automatic transmission that has electronically controlled overdrive. This configuration is new for this model year.

While the electronic stability control system is only available as an optional feature on the 2008 Toyota Camry, traction control is standard, and other safety features include a total of seven airbags, among them a knee bag for the driver, and full-length curtain and side-impact bags for the front seat. The expected anti-lock braking system, tire pressure monitoring functionality, and daytime running lights are all present as well, as is an engine immobilization system, which is standard across all trims, and includes an additional alarm on the XLE.

Inside the 2008 Camry, all trims have power windows and door locks, air conditioning, and a basic AM/FM Radio/CD player, standard, but an upgraded stereo system by JBL adds Bluetooth technology, and a DVD-based navigational system is available also.

Estimated fuel efficiency for the 2008 Toyota Camry is 21 mpg in the city/31 on the highway, with the four-cylinder engine, or 19 / 28 with the V-6. The base model has a starting MSRP of $18,570.