Three New Toyota Models You Must Test Drive

Although the entire lineup of Toyota family sedans, sport utilities and compact cars are among the most reliable, safe, and fuel efficient vehicles on the road today, there are three all-new Toyota models for 2012 that really stand out, making them “must drive” vehicles.

2012 Toyota Camry Hybrid

An all-new design for 2012, the Toyota Camry Hybrid is not only 26 percent more fuel efficient that the previous generation Camry Hybrid, but it’s also the most fuel efficient family sedan in its class. Returning 43 mpg city, 39 mpg highway and 41 mpg combined, the Camry Hybrid sips fuel while still boasting a total output of 200 hp between its 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and the legendary Toyota Hybrid Synergy Drive system made famous on the iconic Toyota Prius.

The seamless transition from electric to gasoline power in the Camry Hybrid is almost undetectable, making you forget you’re driving a vehicle with two different propulsion systems. At stoplights, the Camry Hybrid is silent, as the gasoline motor shuts off, and during initial acceleration, the Camry Hybrid is all electric – an addicting sensation unlike any gasoline-powered vehicle.

If you’ve never driven a hybrid before, make your first experience either a Toyota Camry Hybrid or the next “must drive” car on our list.

2012 Toyota Prius V

The V stands for “versatility”, and the legendary Toyota Prius adds a new member to its hybrid family. The 2012 Toyota Prius V is perfect for growing families who need up to 60 percent more cargo space yet still want to drive one of the most fuel efficient cars in America. How fuel efficient? The EPA rates the 2012 Prius V at 44 mpg city, 40 mpg highway and 42 mpg combined.

Because of its larger size, the Prius V has a stable and composed feel on the freeway, but still retains the same nimble characteristics of the traditional Prius with refined electric steering that helps navigating through cramped parking lots a breeze.

And like the original Prius, the Prius V includes advanced technology that’s also quite functional. Features like adaptive cruise control, an automated parallel-parking system and a pre-collision safety system make driving more enjoyable and safer.

Quite simply, there’s no other vehicle on the road today besides the 2012 Prius V that can deliver the same amount of eco-friendly technology, 40+ mpg performance and 34 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats. That’s why the 2012 Prius V is a “must drive” on our list.

2012 Toyota Yaris

Completely redesigned for 2012, the Toyota Yaris represents the ultimate in a budget-conscious, value-packed compact car that delivers features and driving manners more substantial than its dimensions would indicate.

The Yaris has grown almost two inches in wheelbase and three inches in total body length which has not only improved the ride quality of the Yaris, but has opened up cabin and cargo space. The three-door hatchback offers 15.3 cubic feet of space with rear seats up, a 64 percent improvement over the previous generation Yaris. Although it’s grown a bit, the Yaris still remains a compact car that maneuvers through huge cities with ease and can fit in to virtually any parking space.

Another big change for the Yaris is the instrument cluster, which used to be located dead center in the dashboard above the stereo controls. For 2012, the Yaris features a more traditional and attractive instrument cluster in front of the steering wheel with stereo and HVAC controls found in the center stack.

But what makes the Yaris a “must drive” is the way this lightweight 2,300-pound car strikes a balance between a zippy compact and an economical fuel miser. With its small-yet-sprite 1.5-liter four-cylinder pumping out 106 hp through the front wheels, the 2012 Yaris returns as much as 38 mpg highway and 30 mpg city.

All three of these machines represent the continued Toyota commitment to safety, quality, value and fuel efficiency. So stop by Acton Toyota today and get behind the wheel of one or all of these new, “must drive” Toyota models. You’ll be glad you did.