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Since 2000, the Toyota Prius has been the benchmark for hybrid engineering in the United States. It's continued its run for the past 16 years as the highest-selling hybrid of all time, and 2017 looks bright. The car doesn't get a huge overhaul or makeover this year, but it does gain a few extra features coupled with the efficiency you've come to know and love. If you're wanting to upgrade to the latest model or looking to become more eco-friendly in your travels, look no further than the 2017 Toyota Prius. 1. The Efficient Engine For most people, the hyper-efficient engine is the No. 1 reason to buy the Prius. This year's engine is an upgraded version of the prior year, offering the best fuel economy yet. Under the hood, the Prius sports an Atkinson-cycle 1.8-liter engine paired with a permanent-magnet synchronous electric motor to power the front axle. Together, this powertrain provides 121 horsepower and up to 105 pound-feet of torque. It goes from zero to 60 in 10.5 seconds, while topping out at an impressive 115 mph. Fuel economy is better than ever in the 2017 Prius, with the base model offering 54 miles per gallon (mpg) in the city and 50 mpg on the highway. If you want even better mileage, opt for the Eco trim, which provides you with a whopping 58 mpg in the city. more 2. Top-Notch Safety Features If safety is a main concern, the Prius delivers on all fronts. It comes standard with Toyota's Star Safety System, which is a six-feature suite that includes amenities such as vehicle stability control, traction control, and anti-lock brakes. For the extra cautious, the Prius has several available active safety features geared toward preventing accidents rather than softening the blow when they occur. Available safety specs are blind spot monitor, rear cross-traffic alert, and rain-sensing windshield wipers. All trim levels come with an integrated backup camera, providing wide-angle views for perfect parallel parking and reversing. When you bring all these features together, it comes as no surprise that the Prius received the coveted five-star safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. 3. Stellar Tech Specs The Prius is perhaps one of the best cars on the market for the self-proclaimed tech guru. Standard tech features on the 2017 Prius include Qi-compatible wireless charging, which eliminates the need for wires and cords in the front seats; a smart key, push-button ignition for easy starting; a color Heads-Up Display, which projects your RPMs and speed right on the windshield; and Toyota Entune for seamless smartphone integration. Other options that make your driving experience even better include the smart-flow climate control system, which ensures you're always comfortable regardless of the outside weather. In addition, the enhanced parking support system makes sure you never hit a car when backing into a spot. When it comes to hybrid vehicles, the 2017 Prius proves it's still the premier name in the industry. All you need to do is try one for yourself. https://www.flickr.com/photos/janitors/27202878773/sizes/l Image via Flickr by Janitors

Toyota is one of the leading car designers in the world. The company consistently improves on earlier designs by adding updated technology to enhance performance. New features make Toyota an industry leader in functionality, performance, and comfort. USB Ports Most smartphones and tablets rely on USB-powered chargers to recharge. Normally you'd have to buy a separate specialty plug in order to charge your phone using what was once the cigarette lighters in your car. However, new Toyota models have built-in USB ports where you can plug in any device that uses a USB cord to charge without buying a separate specialty charger. more Voice Recognition In order to stay focused when driving in a world full of technology, it's critical to be able to tell your car what you want it to do. If you want to text someone, you should never do so while driving. That is unless you can do it hands-free using voice recognition. You can tell your car to call your friends using your connected smartphone or to find the nearest gas station if you need to refuel. Bluetooth-Enabled Phone Book Since the invention of smartphones, address books, and palm pilots, we haven't had the need to remember phone numbers in a long time. So when it's time to dial your favorite aunt to tell her you're 10 minutes away from her house using your car's console, it would be inconvenient to have to pull out your phone first to figure out the number to dial. The Bluetooth-enabled phone books make it easy to look up the numbers without needing your phone first. Entune™ Premium Audio System The Entune™ Premium Audio System has quickly become a customer favorite. Much like your favorite tablet or smartphone, this system has downloadable apps so you can customize your experience with your car's console. If you love listening to radio stations from around the country or already subscribe to an app-based audiobook service, you can enjoy access from your car without draining your smartphone battery. Built-In Navigation The 2017 Toyota models come with built-in navigation so you always know where you're going, even if you don't own a separate GPS system or smartphone. The larger screen and built-in voice recognition make it easy to see the directions clearly without fumbling with your phone. Many customers prefer the built-in navigation system to aftermarket versions. Smart Key System Toyota's Smart Key System allows you to open car doors with the touch of a handle, instead of having to dig through your purse to find your key. As long as you're carrying your key in your pocket or purse, you'll be able to open your car doors or trunk without the key. The Smart Key System also allows you to start the car without using the physical key. Discover more on Toyota's website about the in-car technology that sets it apart from other car manufacturers. You'll learn how Toyota's new features enhance the performance and luxury of its vehicles. If you're in the market for a new car, Toyota offers some of the best features available. Image Via Pixabay

If you're a dedicated Toyota enthusiast, you are already aware that Toyota will soon be releasing the 2017 Toyota Avalon. Many car critics eagerly await the new release, which promises to impress consumers and experts alike. Though the 2017 edition has yet to be released to the public, details about this vehicle are slowly being leaked. Priority Toyota wants you to stay in-the-know, so we've compiled a list of trim levels that will be available for the 2017 Avalon. Specs on the Limited 2017 Avalon Trim Level The exterior of the Avalon has undergone some cosmetic changes in the 2017 Limited model. The headlights, tail lights, and turn signals will be LED, giving it a modern edge. The front grille has redesigned fog lights and a central air intake. The Limited also offers an updated interior. The inside color is a sleek light gray accented by gray stitching, giving the car a futuristic, high-end feel. Despite the aesthetic changes to the interior, there will be no structural differences to the engine in the 2017 Limited trim. The Avalon retains its 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 268 horsepower and 248 lb-ft of torque. The engine isn't impressively powerful, but it is enough for the purposes of this ride. The Avalon keeps the 6-speed transmission with paddle shifter. more Specs on the XLE Touring 2017 Avalon Trim Level The Touring package is heavily anticipated by the car community. The 2017 trim edition keeps all the components of luxury from its predecessors, but it also remains affordable to the average consumer. Standard features include an updated touch screen display, sensors for the car's blind spots, a built-in navigation system, and crash sensors. It is expected that the XLE Touring will offer redesigns such as a touchscreen with heightened sensitivity, swipe controls, improved lighting on the dash panel, a better braking system, and a folding backseat. The exterior of the Touring is coated in Attitude Black Metallic paint, complementing the 18-inch compound, painted, and machine-completed wheels. The headlights will be HID and the car will also sport LED Daytime Running Lights. The interior is upgraded with a blue trim around the dashboard and a back console. The blue trim also accents the calfskin-bordered seats. Specs on the Hybrid 2017 Avalon Trim Level As the name suggests, the 2017 Hybrid has a much different engine setup than the Limited. The Hybrid contains a 2.5-liter petrol-based engine attached to an electric motor that drives the ECVT gearbox. This dual design allows the Hybrid to conserve fuel and gives the consumer a highly efficient means of transportation. Toyota manufacturers understand that drivers need help in getting the most efficiency out of their Hybrids, so they've made sure to give internal support to the Hybrid. The Hybrid boasts a Multi-Information Display, allowing the driver to choose between ebb-and-flow and normal efficiency. The driver is also able to use the display to select between Sport Mode and 18 ECO markers while being presented with information on separation to discharge, EV, and car vitality. Image Via Toyota.com

Although Toyota doesn't have the same collector's appeal as some of the classic American or European cars, it does have a number of models over the years that are worthy of being put in the discussion. However, the reasoning behind the lack of inclusion into the collector car market isn't necessarily a bad thing. When other automakers were making huge gas-guzzling cars, Toyota was building economical vehicles and working on efficient manufacturing practices. Even with this commitment, it's still churned out its fair share of exotic vehicles. Here are just a few you wished you owned. 1. 1967 "Open-Top" Toyota 2000GT Whether you love the over-the-top gadgets, the villains, the cars, or the women, there's something about James Bond that embodies adventure. In 1967's "You Only Live Twice," Bond, played by Sean Connery, is only seconds from assassination until the famed 2000GT, piloted by the Bond Girl Aki, comes by to save him. She then leads the henchmen on a chase, until they're picked off the road by a helicopter with a giant magnet. Although the 2000GT was available in Japan as a hardtop, the convertible, or open-top, version was never released to the public and only two are still in existence. Aside from fetching a record $1.15 million dollar price at auction, this car is also said to be the most recent Bond, Daniel Craig's, favorite. more 2. 1977 FJ40 Land Cruiser Although the FJ40 was manufactured from 1960 to 1984, the 1977 version receives accolades for its looks and superior off-road capability. The hardest part of finding this one, whether at an auction or through a private seller, is that most are in such poor condition that even a full rehab will never recoup the money for the owner. However, if you can find someone who's willing to do the work you can find one of these models like new, although it'll cost you a pretty penny. Although blue book values peg the value of the FJ40 somewhere between $5,000 and $25,000, many have started to fetch nearly $100,000. With such a premium on the 1977 version of the Land Cruiser, it's still unknown whether it's a fad, but you may want to purchase one now or wait a few years to see if the demand cools. 3. 1992-1998 Supra Mark IV It's almost impossible to narrow the most collectible model of the Supra Mark IV to a single year, so this list includes them all. During this time span, fewer than 8,000 of these models were produced, and many of them never made their way to America. What makes this version special is not only its superior looks, but also its 320-horsepower twin-turbo V6. With this monster under the hood, the Supra ramped up to 60 mph in around 5 seconds, depending on the model year. Prices on this beast vary, but the one from "The Fast and the Furious" sold for $185,000 in 2015. You'll need some serious cash to take one of these Toyotas home with you, but once you get behind the wheel, you'll understand why they're so coveted. So pinch your pennies or cross your fingers that you find a bargain. You'll need luck on your side.   Image via Flickr by Sicnag

Toyota introduced its infotainment system, Entune, in the 2012 Toyota Prius v. Since then, Toyota has continued to improve the system, making it more useful for drivers. It has a lot to offer and comes standard on a number of Toyota vehicles. Basic Features Entune is an integrated telematics and multimedia navigation system that runs through the central display touchscreen. It uses satellite data to offer real-time sports scores, weather, stocks, and traffic information. The system can also pull location data based on satellite positioning to provide local fuel prices, allowing you to find the cheapest station and save money at the pump. To access this data, you must have a current subscription to SirusXM satellite radio. more Smartphone Integration Another major selling point of the Entune system is that if offers smartphone integration. To connect your phone, start by downloading the Entune app from the App Store (iOS), Google Play Store (Android), or Blackberry World. The app is free, but its use requires a cellular data plan. When connected to a smartphone via Bluetooth, Entune provides access to various apps and a web browser. You can also stream music through your phone's data connection from music services including XM Satellite Radio, iHeartRadio, and Pandora. Another benefit of syncing your phone with the system is that you can then use the voice-activated controls to make calls or do other tasks. It also allows you to personalize the system for your specific needs and access Toyota Safety Connect. This additional system within Entune gives both the driver and passengers access to vehicle safety information, collision information, roadside assistance, stolen vehicle tracking, remote diagnostics, and communications. Navigation Another extra feature that you can add to the Entune Suite is the Scout GPS Link app. It is available on Toyota vehicles model year 2016 and newer and includes Entune Audio Plus. This system uses the data plan through your Android phone or iPhone to provide turn-by-turn directions and map information on the touchscreen display. With this helpful system, you don't have to punch in the address on your phone or try to view the map on a small screen. It's easier to use and see on the display within the dashboard. Siri Eyes Free Distracted driving is very dangerous, and taking your eyes off the road even for a second to glance at your phone can lead to an accident. Siri Eyes Free helps prevent you from looking down at the phone screen because it offers voice-controlled options like sending a text, having one read to you, or making a phone call. This service requires a connected iPhone that is compatible with the system. Once you connect your phone, press the button on the steering wheel with a picture of a phone off the hook. Hold the button until you hear the familiar beep and tell Siri exactly what you need. Entune makes driving safer and more enjoyable with access to all different types of information and tools. Image via Flickr by Brian Bilek

Toyota is phasing out its Scion vehicles, but the sporty, sleek FR-S is getting a brand new name and is staying around for interested buyers. The 2017 Toyota GT is a flashy car that is attracting a lot of attention. Exterior Restyling It may look familiar to fans of the Scion model, but the Toyota GT, also known as the Toyota 86, has a few new features to show off. Toyota showcased the vehicle at the New York Auto Show earlier this year. It includes new exterior features like updated LED turn signals and headlamps, a modified bumper, and a grille that aligns with other vehicles in the Toyota lineup. On the rear of the car, you will notice a brand new look that includes a differently shaped bumper and LED tail lamps to complement the other LED lighting aspects on the front. The headlamps also incorporate the "86" logos, near the fenders, and a number of other elements throughout the interior and exterior stylings tie in the "86" theme. more Improved Handling No sports car is complete without improved driving features that make it more fun to take out on the road. The 2017 Toyota GT will have a four-cylinder 2.0-liter engine beneath its hood that is capable of producing 196 pound-feet of torque and 205 horsepower. This marks a slight increase in both categories over the previous output capability from the engine that was in the Scion. Toyota will pair this engine with a six-speed manual transmission as a standard feature, or buyers can choose to upgrade to a six-speed automatic transmission. The automatic transmission includes paddle shifters on the steering wheel. This car will also showcase an improved chassis and shock absorbers to provide a better transient response when out on the road. Sleek Interior Toyota designers also made some major improvements to the inside of the vehicle. "Grandlux" materials help create a soft and comfortable interior, which is quite an upgrade from the previously used plastics. The seats in the car also have a more stylish and softer feel, complemented by silver stitching. The steering wheel hub also shows off the name of the vehicle, 86. Showcase in Formula Drift Toyota also announced that it would feature the new 86 model in Formula Drift with drivers Ryan Tuerck and Ken Gushi defending Toyota's title in the 2015 Manufacturers' Championship. The event will also showcase the new features of the 2017 Toyota 86, with series champion Frederic Aasbo also appearing at Formula Drift. Interested buyers should expect to see this stylish new vehicle on dealership lots by fall 2016, so keep an eye out if you're looking to buy a new sports car. This 2017 Toyota 86 is a great option among those who want to drive something different but love the reliability and functionality of cars within the Toyota lineup. Be sure to make a plan to take one out for a test drive as soon as it becomes available in your area. Image via Flickr by Iawo

Since taking the automotive world by storm in 2000, the Prius has taken strides to offer an array of efficient hybrid vehicles. However, none look as promising and exciting as the Prius Prime. Shedding the original Prius appearance with a bit more flash and flair, the Prius Prime makes a concerted effort to make the entire hybrid experience more visually stunning, as well as more fun to drive. If you're looking for the ultimate hybrid experience, the Prime is a car that you need on your radar. Here's a glance at all that the new Prime has to offer. Plug-In Capabilities The Prime ushers in a new era of Prius by becoming the first in the family to include a plug-in option. Unlike its siblings, the Prime uses a larger battery and more powerful motors to go further on battery power. Using a normal, 120-volt home outlet, the Prime charges in just 5.5 hours, but using a public, 240-volt charging station gives it a full charge in just 2.5 hours. On a full battery, the Prime goes up to 22 miles, but when coupled with the gasoline portion of the engine, it travels 600 miles on a single tank. According to EPA estimates, this gives the Prime and miles per gallon (mpg) equivalent of 120. With these capabilities, the Prime is the perfect commuter car in electric mode, while the hybrid option gives you an affordable road trip machine. more Sleek Exterior Design Many consumers argued that the original Prius had looks only a mother could love. On the other hand, the Prius Prime means you don't have to compromise between aesthetics and fuel economy. While this four-door sedan has shades of the original Prius, it's more similar to gasoline-powered compacts. To add to the exterior appeal, the Prime adds LED headlamps and tail lights, a more striking front fascia, an integrated spoiler, and a carbon fiber liftgate. The body is also crafted out of high-strength steel and aluminum, providing a lightweight design that aids in aerodynamics and fuel efficiency. Brilliant Interior Features Another superior aspect of the Prime is a lavish interior that offers more features than just about any plug-in hybrid on the market. This includes technologically advanced specs like a USB port, Bluetooth connectivity, voice recognition, and Siri Eyes Free, which provides hands-free and eyes-free coordination with your iPhone. If you want a visually impressive experience, you can add an 11.6-inch display screen for a few extra bucks. Other amenities include dual-zone climate control, a 4.2-inch instrument display cluster, and a full readout to show how efficient you're driving. Safety-Conscious Like the original Prius, the Prime has tons of safety-active features, which help avoid accidents before they happen. This includes Toyota Safety Sense P, which adds pre-collision detection with pedestrian recognition, automatic braking, dynamic cruise control, and lane-keeping assist. For the novice parallel parker, the Prime offers Intelligent Parking Assist, which guides your car into even the tightest spaces. With the Prius Prime, Toyota enters into a new age of hybrid capabilities. Whether the Prime becomes a success remains, but with its features, styling, and fuel economy, it looks poised to create quite a stir in the hybrid market. Photo by M 93: „Dein Nordrhein-Westfalen“ | Licensed under cc BY 2.0

The summer is the quintessential season to take the perfect road trip. You get to see new places, make new friends, and forget about the workaday world, even if it's only for a weekend. However, you also need a car that complements the trip, rather than detracts from it. The Toyota Sienna is just that vehicle. Don't let it's label as a minivan deter you. With surprisingly striking exterior styling and a plethora of features, the Sienna is an amazingly versatile vehicle that's ideal for your summer excursion. To prove this point, Toyota even took the opportunity to send two Sienna's on a road trip around the country, showcasing their abilities as the ultimate road trip vehicle. Here's just a few more reasons why the Sienna is the most awesome road trip car. 1. Efficiency and Performance Minivans of the past typically haven't been economic nor performance worthy, yet the Sienna provides both aspects in bulk. Under the hood, this minivan sports a peppy 266-horsepower, 3.5-liter V6, capable of a 7.6-second zero-to-60 time, as well as a top speed of 113 miles per hour. It's not that you need to go that fast or spin your tires, but just knowing that it's an option is a mental boon. From an efficiency standpoint, the Sienna churns out up to 25 miles per gallon (mpg) highway and up to 18 mpg in the city. With this surprising mix of performance and efficiency, the Sienna is in a category all its own. more 2. Amazing Interior Specs One thing that the Sienna does far better than any other minivan on the market provides an amazing amount of interior amenities. Some of these include a dual moonroof, leather seating, steering wheel-mounted controls, a visually stunning instrument cluster, and a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system. If you're planning on packing tons of gear or bringing a crew, the Sienna holds up to eight passengers or carries up to 150 cubic feet of cargo space. With these specs and a roomy interior, you'll ride to your destination and back in absolute comfort. 3. Top-Notch Technology and Entertainment Although the journey is half the fun, sometimes there are long stretches of road with little in the way of entertainment. With the Sienna, however, this is far from problematic. By adding in the available Blu-Ray entertainment system, all passengers can watch a film over the audio system or by using their headphones. If music is more your thing, you can upgrade to the 10-speaker JBL premium audio system, which is even better with SiriusXM satellite radio. You won't have to worry about hearing the same song twice, and you can pick a station to personalize your trip. For the directionally challenged, the Sienna has an available navigation system which will keep you from wandering on a road to nowhere or prevent a detour through a rough part of town. Don't spend this summer's road trip in a car that lacks features, reliability, and versatility. Instead, hop into the driver's seat of a 2016 Sienna. With this minivan, you'll remember your next road trip forever. Photo by TimOve | Licensed under cc BY 2.0

Now that summer is officially underway many people will hit the highway for a family road trip. We don't want you to find yourself stranded on the side of the road, when you should be enjoying quality time with family, so follow these 5 essential summer road trip car care tips and it'll be smooth sailing to your summer destination! Squealing or vibrating brakes can not only be an annoyance, but that can also mean your braking capabilities are not optimal. Low tread on your tires can be dangerous in wet weather conditions, and no one wants to sit through a road trip without AC! And just like you, your engine needs to stay cool during the hot summer months and long hours on the road. You also want to be prepared in the event of an emergency, having an emergency kit, first aid kit and spare tire in your trunk is essential. Remember that at Priority Toyota Chesapeake, we are here for all of your vehicle service needs. Brakes, tires, AC system checks, engine coolant and much more. Give us a call today at 757-366-5000 and schedule an appointment today. You can also schedule your vehicle maintenance on our website by clicking here. As an added bonus we have a tire special going on right now - buy 3 tires and get the 4th tire for $1. Plus, eligible tires purchased at your Toyota dealership come with 24-month tire road hazard coverage. You just can't beat that. Check out all of our current service and parts specials today! *tire offer: Toyota and Scion vehicles only. Run flat tires excluded. Must present coupon when order is written. Plus tax & shop supplies. Not valid with any other offer Must be installed at time of purchase. Valid only at participating Toyota Tire Center dealers. Buy three tires at the Toyota suggested retail price. Get the fourth for $1.00. Fourth tire must be of equal or lesser value. Prior sales excluded.

Think that customization and performance modifications are just for the fast and furious? Think again. Toyota offers a variety of ways to personalize your RAV4, and most of them are not only affordable but also easy to install. Plus, with these upgrades like remote start and advanced HomeLink® technology, your crossover SUV gets one step closer to luxury. Below we've compiled some of the coolest and best ways that you can transform your RAV4. Bird's Eye View Camera What's better than a rear-view camera? One with a 360-degree view. The Toyota RAV4's Bird's Eye View Camera allows you to see nearby objects while also helping you to get in and out of those tiny parking spots with ease. This available system is complete with Perimeter Scan, an innovative technology feature that shows a live, rotating 360-degree view of your surroundings when parked. more Remote Engine Starter It's time to elevate the comfort of your RAV4, and thanks to the available remote engine starter you can do just that. With the press of just one button, your air conditioner, heater, defroster, and defogger will automatically turn on to the pre-set temperatures and settings. The quick and easy three-step sequence using the remote key fob will turn on your RAV4 engine, allowing you to step into a pre-cooled or heated cabin. Plus this available system is easily integrated with keyless entry and existing factory security. Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist Drive safer with Toyota's available Lane Departure Alert (LDA). Helping you to stay in your lane, LDA is designed to detect the painted lane markings on the roadways and will alert you if you start to veer out of your lane. With a subtle yet audible beep and a flash of light on the instrumental panel, LDA alerts you to take action. Coupled with Steering Assist, this system will keep both you and your RAV4 safe in your lane with gentle corrective steering assistance when needed. HomeLink® with Frameless Rearview Mirror Do you want your RAV4 to help you stay connected and stylish? The available integrated HomeLink® system allows that and much more. With this upgrade, you can open and close your garage door, while controlling your front gate and home security system, from inside your RAV4. Plus the available frameless rearview mirror will add a whole new modern touch while giving you a new space to store your sunglasses. Trailer Hitch, Roof Rack & Cargo Carrier Add a little sporty muscle to your RAV4. Perfect for hauling thousands of pounds with ease, a RAV4 hitch is great for hauling bikes, cargo carriers, and trailers. If you're looking for even more room, a roof rack and cargo carrier will do the trick. These RAV4 accessories will allow you to bring just about everything you may need while saving you interior room for you and your passengers. With all the endless ways to customize, Toyota certainly makes it both fun and easy to turn your RAV4 into one that's uniquely yours. Photo by JesusAbizanda | Licensed under cc BY 2.0

Throughout the year, there are an array of festivals in Chesapeake, Virginia. These festivals range from food-focused events to crafts, music, and more. With such a vast diversity, it is easy to say there is a festival for everyone. Therefore, which ones do you plan on visiting? The following five are the greatest festivals to attend. Revolutionary Beer Fest Start the summer off right by going to the Revolutionary Beer Fest on June 11, 2016. Grab your adult friends and head over to Chesapeake City Park, where you will find more than 15 breweries serving beer and pairing with local food trucks. This adult-only event starts at noon and goes until 5 p.m. Tickets start at $35, but for $75, you can get the VIP ticket that includes dinner and exclusive beer tasting. more Celebration Freedom Everyone loves a big Fourth of July party, and you need to go to the Celebration Freedom event to experience it. However, this year, the party starts on July 3, 2016, at the Chesapeake City Park. This festival includes entertainment, music, children's activities, and more. Then end the night by watching the fireworks explode in the sky above. There is no entry fee, but parking in the area is $5. Symphony Under the Stars The Symphony Under the Stars is a local tradition here in Chesapeake. This year Bagley Stage, the Virginia Symphony Orchestra will be performing on Sept. 4, 2016. The area opens at 6 p.m. with food vendors and silent auctions to visit. The concert starts at 7 p.m., so be sure you bring your blanket or lawn chairs and find a spot before the show starts. This event is completely free, and there is no charge for parking. Great American Food Fest Before you know it, October 5 will be here and so will the Great American Food Fest. From 3-7 p.m. come on down to Chesapeake City Park, where you will find one of Chesapeake's largest outdoor events. For just $30 in advance or $40 at the door, you can try a variety of great food, including clam chowder, barbecue, fried fish, and more. Plus, you can pick from several craft beer or mixed drink options. Waterways Heritage Days Every year during the second weekend of October, you can come out to the two-day event celebrating Waterways Heritage Days. This event takes place at several locations, including Great Bridge Lock Park and Historic Battlefield Park. Here you will find several exhibits detailing the wonderful history of the area. Vendors bring crafts, food, and more to showcase their talents, as well as share a part of history with you. This event is free, and there are shuttles available to transport you to and from the different sites. Now that you know why these festivals are the greatest, it is time that you plan to attend one or more of them. You can read reviews, hear from friends, or even see things on the news about each of these, but until you experience them yourself, you won't truly know how great they are. Don't put it off — you'll be glad you went. Photo by WXRob | Licensed under cc BY-SA 2.0

Once you decide the 2016 Toyota Corolla is the car for you, the next step is to choose a trim package. Trim refers to the different feature configurations available for this model. The Corolla offers four main trims designated as the L, LE, LE Eco, and S. The features you get with your new car are based on the trim level you purchase. Learning more about the available trims is a critical part of researching a car before you buy it. Get to know the Toyota Corolla and its trims, so you shop smart when the time comes to purchase. The Base Model For the Corolla, the base model is the L series. It comes with the standard features and is the least expensive of the trims. With an L, you get 15-inch steel wheels, power accessories, and air conditioning. The tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel makes the interior more comfortable and roomy. The steering wheel has onboard auxiliary controls as well, for easy access. The interior provides a six-way adjustable driver's seat and four-way front passenger seat with a 60/40 split folding rear seat. You have full access to Toyota's Entune audio system complete with a 6-inch touchscreen, voice controls, six speakers, CD player, and an auxiliary audio jack. more The LE The next trim level up is the LE model. With the Corolla LE, you buy 16-inch alloy wheels instead of the 15-inch steel ones that come with the standard L. You also add heated mirrors, automatic climate control, and a rearview camera along with keyless entry, cruise control, and metallic cabin accents. The LE series sports the Toyota Entune Plus audio system that offers satellite and HD radio to the entertainment options, too. You can get the Scout GPS link app that provides smartphone navigation on the Corolla's touch-screen display. The LE Eco The LE Eco upgrades your purchase further by adding a more efficient engine and transmission to the package. This model comes complete with a 132 horsepower and 128 foot-pound torque engine and Toyota's Valvematic variable valve timing. The Eco provides 15-inch steel wheels as well, but they have low-rolling-resistance tires for more gas efficiency. As an added bonus, the Eco has a rear spoiler and enhanced aerodynamics. The interior options for the LE Eco are the same as what you get with the LE. If you opt for the LE Premium package, however, you add an eight-way power driver seat, heated front seats and SofTex vinyl upholstery. The S The "S" in this trim level stands for "sport." With this model, you get many of the same features you see in the LE trim, but with some cosmetic upgrades that make the car sportier. They include unique wheel covers, color-keyed mirrors with signal repeaters, a chrome exhaust tip, a leather-wrapped steering wheel with paddle shifters, sports instrumentation, and a trip computer. A rear spoiler is standard with this trim, too. Deciding on a Toyota Corolla doesn't mean you finish making choices. Figure out what features best suit your needs and then pick the trim level that has them. Photo by katerha | Licensed under cc BY 2.0