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For the last few years, the Toyota RAV4 has become more popular among drivers that prefer SUVs over other car options. The Toyota RAV4 offers a combination of the right features with good performance and affordability. That makes it the right option if you want a smaller SUV for daily driving. If you think you could see yourself with a small SUV instead of a car, here are four things to love about the new 2018 Toyota RAV4. The Adventure Trim Package One of the first things that you'll notice about the 2018 Toyota RAV4 is there is a wide range of packages to choose. The one that stands out the most is the 2018 Toyota RAV4 Adventure package, which gives it a new look and many of the features that you will want for off-road adventures. It comes with rubber floor mats that are weather resistant and easy to clean. The exterior gets a new paint job options with a distinctive hood strip. There is an optional tow package as well that will let you tow up to 3,500 lbs. It has many upgraded components to give you better performance no matter what you come across. more Toyota Safety Sense P (TSS-P) Another standout feature of the RAV4 is the Toyota Safety Sense P (TSS-P) package that comes standard on many of Toyota's newer vehicles. It is a collection of safety features such as Toyota's Lane Departure Alert system that also has steering assist, which can help you stay in your lane. You'll also get access to many of Toyota's driverassist technologies like the Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, which manages your cruise controls speed so that it can react to traffic in your lane and adjust your speed automatically. Driver Modes You'll also like the fact that the RAV4 comes with a drive mode selector that lets you modify its performance. It comes with an Eco mode that improves fuel efficiency while still giving you a comfortable ride and a Sport mode that focuses on higher performance. If you are driving the RAV4 hybrid, there is an EV mode as well that lets you run on battery power as long as there is not a need for the gas engine. Integrated Navigation Another feature that you will like is the integrated navigation options. You can choose from two sound system options for the best quality, and both options come with integrated navigation. You have a choice between two Entune systems with different speaker configurations. The navigation system is easy to use and can easily replace a standalone unit or your cell phone with better results. Toyota's RAV4 is a taking a step forward with a redesigned interior, exterior, and features list. If you are looking for a smaller SUV that can combine the performance of a sedan with the versatility of an SUV, the RAV4 is one of the best choices available. The best way to see if it is a good fit for you is to test drive it yourself. Visit Priority Toyota of Chesapeake to test drive the RAV4 and see how it can change your driving experience for the better.   Image via toyota.com

Experts say that the Toyota Tacoma is like an edgy teenager, full of energy, adventure, and character, but not quite as sophisticated as its full-sized brother. Its best known for its off-road abilities and trail-ready package, featuring rugged equipment. The Tacoma provides flexibility with multiple powertrain options and various body configurations. It also has a reputation for outstanding safety features, at a practical price. We at Priority Toyota Chesapeake are impressed with the 2018 Toyota Tacoma, and we think you will be too. This is everything you need to know about the 2018 Toyota Tacoma. Trim Options The Tacoma is best when taken on the road less traveled, and the TRD Off-Road model was made for adventurous types like you. With either a five- or six-foot bed, and a double cab, it easily seats four large guys. It's perfect for camping and fishing trips into the mountains. It is equipped with a standard 3.5-liter V-6 engine and a six-speed automatic. Other standard equipment on the TRD Off-Road includes an electronically locking rear differential, tough and smooth off-road shocks, and an intuitive 7.0 infotainment center with touchscreen. more Infotainment Center The 2018 Tacoma has the same infotainment system as it did in the previous year model. The Entune system features navigation, a USB port, one 12-volt outlet, Bluetooth connectivity, and voice commands. Safety Where the 2018 Tacoma really stands out is with its impressive list of safety features. The NHTSA gave it four out five stars for an overall safety rating. It was also rated as good on all crash tests. It has a long list of standard safety features to keep you and your loved ones safe on the road. The safety package includes automatic emergency braking (AEB), adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, pedestrian detection, and the convenience of automatic high beams. There's still more, such as the lane departure warning alerts, blind-spot warning, and rear cross-traffic alert, which is available only on the Sport model and higher. Exterior Toyota gave the 2018 Tacoma some minor cosmetic updates which vary, depending on the specific trim. The SR and SR5 have stylish new grills. The TRD Sport and TRD OffRoad come with a cool looking mesh grille, while the popular Limited has a new satinchrome looking grill. Toyota also introduced some new paint colors, like Midnight Black, which somehow makes it look even tougher than it already is. The bed of the hearty truck is ready for the worst sort of weather because it's made completely of composite material, which will keep it free of rust. Everyone loves the new 2018 Tacoma, and just one test drive and you'll understand why. We invite you to the dealership to check one out personally. It handles nicely and is everything you expect from a good truck. From the roomy interior to the extraordinary safety features, to the 7.0 infotainment touchscreen, it's a solid truck and a great value. We even have some great financing options available that make it easy to own your very own.   Image via toyota.com

Now that we're in the thick of winter, it's important to make sure you have a vehicle that can withstand harsh temperatures and snow. If your current car's lackluster in this area, consider upgrading to the 2018 Toyota 4Runner. There are a number of reasons why the 4Runner's the perfect vehicle for tackling whatever the winter season throws at you. Four-Wheel Drive On the 4Runner, you'll have two choices of four-wheel drive. If you choose a higher trim level, such as the SR5 4WD and TRD Off-Road models, you'll get part-time fourwheel drive with Active Traction Control for extra power when you need it. On the Limited 4WD trim, you'll get a full-time four-wheel-drive system with Active Traction Control and Torsen limited-slip center differential with locking feature. more What does all this mean for you? With four-wheel drive, you'll be able to tackle icy roads, unplowed roads, and slippery slush with ease. Just flip the switch, and you'll have complete control over the terrain before you. Safety Features for the Cold One of the biggest problems with the cold is how it drains the air out of your tires. They could be completely full, but one night of sub-freezing temperatures can cause them to drop to dangerously low levels. Thanks to the Tire Pressure Monitor System in the 2018 4Runner, you'll know right away whether or not your tires are safe to drive on. You'll get an immediate alert to fill your tires with air before you hit the road. Toyota also includes its ToyotaCare package with every 4Runner. This is a no-cost maintenance plan that lasts for two years or 25,000 miles and includes 24-hour roadside assistance. If you do happen to break down in the middle of a snowstorm, Toyota has you covered. Interior Luxuries Chilly temperatures make it a pain to get into your freezing car. Luckily, the 4Runner comes with heated and ventilated front seats with the Limited trim, so you'll be warm and toasty in just a few minutes. Plus, leather upholstery on certain trims makes it much easier to wipe away melted snow and salt from the interior. You'll be able to keep an eye on the outside temperature with ease thanks to the Multi-Information Display, which also includes information on the average fuel economy, distance to empty, and time. If you've frozen your hands when clearing off your windshield, use the voice command controls and Bluetooth hands-free phone option while giving your fingers a chance to warm up. Exterior Additions Each trim of the 4Runner exudes the tough ruggedness you need to survive winter. However, the vehicle also comes standard with mud-and-snow tires to give you more traction on slick or icy roads. You'll also get a full-size spare tire mounted under the body of the car just in case you get a flat while stuck in the snow. Surviving the winter doesn't have to be a challenge when you switch to the 2018 Toyota 4Runner. Instead, enjoy taking to the roads without fear thanks to the many valuable features in this vehicle.   Image via toyota.com

Six Trim Levels The 2018 Toyota 4Runner is available in six trims, starting at $34,410 for the base SR5 and escalating to $42,675 for the TRD Pro. All trims are powered by a 4.0-liter V-6 engine with an output of 270 horsepower and 278 pound-feet of torque and have a five-speed automatic transmission. If you're an occasional off-roading enthusiast, you can happily get by with the lower trims. You do have the option to give them a bit of extra muscle by adding TRD Pro accessories, available to non-TRD Pro vehicles. more Excellent Off-Road Credentials There's no denying that Toyota intentionally built the 4Runner for the off-road. You can effortlessly tackle the roughest terrain without worrying about the underbody taking knocks. First, there are 9.6 inches of ground clearance. Second, skid plates underneath the vehicle protect the engine, front suspension, and fuel tank. The Limited trim comes with X-REAS Sport Enhancement Suspension and bigger 20inch wheels. If you're a serious off-roader, choose one of the TRD trims. TRD trims come standard with four-wheel drive and a low-range transfer case. They also feature push-button locking rear differential, crawl control, and multi-terrain select. The TRD Pro bumps it up further with all-terrain tires, Bilstein shocks with rear remote reservoirs, and TRD-tuned springs. Great for the Long Road The Toyota 4Runner is just as great to take on the long road. All 4Runners feature eight-way power-adjustable heated front seats. The Limited trim adds ventilation to the front seats plus driver seat memory. The SR5 and Limited trims offer an available third row, bringing seating capacity up to seven. As for towing capacity, all 4Runners can comfortably tow up to 5,000 pounds — enough to haul a trailer or small boat. There's at least 47.2 cubic feet of cargo space and second-row seats fold down for extra room. All trim levels also have the option of a sliding rear cargo deck with underfloor storage. To reach cargo easily, the 4Runner is the only SUV in its class to offer the power rear glass feature. With the push of a button, you can lower the rear window, making it easy to grab small items from the cargo area. Technology to Aid Your Journey Those who plan to do a lot of traveling in their 4Runner will love the Entune App Suite. It offers apps such as Yelp, Facebook Places, Open Table, and Destination Search that can find shops, attractions, and restaurants near your destination. Traffic and weather updates, navigation, and fuel price information are also all at your fingertips. In addition, the backup camera display makes it easy to hitch your trailer and keep an eye on it for trailer sway. The Toyota 4Runner is durable, spacious, and ideal as an off-road vehicle. This is a fearless SUV that's ready to tackle any expedition you take it on. Image via www.toyota.com

For many people, buying a new car is a stressful process. It doesn't help that there are plenty of car-buying myths floating around out there that pass along bad information. Before you head to your dealer to purchase your next vehicle, check out some of these common car buying myths and learn the truth behind each one. Buy Your Car at the End of the Month Some buyers think if they wait until the end of the month to buy their car, a dealership that's looking to reach a sales target will be willing to accept a lower than normal offer. However, that's assuming it hasn't already reached its target or there was even a target to begin with. In this case, the deal you get at the end of the month will be same one you get at the beginning of the month. more Don't Finance at the Dealer In this myth, car buyers think they can get a better financing deal than what the dealer offers. However, they forget that the dealer has access to a large network of banks. Therefore, while it doesn't hurt to come to the dealer with a financing offer in your back pocket, you should see what financing the dealer offers, because you might end up getting a better one. Shop When the Weather is Bad The idea behind this myth goes like this: if it's raining or snowing, everyone else will stay home because they don't want to deal with the bad weather. Then the dealership will be more likely to make a good deal due to low sales. However, if everyone follows this advice, the dealership will actually be crowded on a rainy day. Instead, shop whenever it's convenient for you. Don't Mention Your Trade-in Until the Last Minute Waiting until the last moment to mention you have a trade-in is so pervasive, dealers actually have a name for it: parachuting the trade. While buyers think they can negotiate a better price for their new car if they don't tell the dealer they're trading in their old car, they're actually just complicating the deal and extending the amount of time they have to spend in the dealership. Instead, research how much your trade-in is worth before you go so you know if you're getting a good deal. Additionally, tell the dealer right away so someone can inspect your trade-in while you're negotiating. Don't Mention You're Getting a Lease Until the Last Minute Similar to parachuting the trade, some people think that waiting until the last minute to tell the dealership that they want to lease a vehicle will get them a better deal. However, just like before, this is another tactic that will only add hours to the time they spend at the dealership. There are so many lease specials available, you might find one that gives you a better deal than just leasing the vehicle based on a low purchase price. With this information, you now know the truth behind these common car-buying myths and you're ready to get your next new vehicle. https://www.flickr.com/photos/statefarm/7979444605/sizes/l Image via Flickr by State Farm

A great activity for summer is kayaking. It gets you out on the water and into the fresh air. Plus, you get to see an entirely different view of the area from the water, and maybe you will even see some wildlife. That said, where do you go kayaking? Check out these five best places to go kayaking near Chesapeake — they won't disappoint Buckroe Beach and Park On First Street South in Hampton, Virginia, you will find Buckroe Beach and Park. This is a great place to take your kayak out on the water while looking back at the white, sandy shore. This park is rarely crowded, and it offers a beautiful picnic area, a place for kids to play, and restrooms. However, do not bring your furry friends with you, as pets are not welcome. more Sandy Bottom Nature Park Sandy Bottom Nature Park, also in Hampton, offers a perfect place for kayakers to spend a few hours. While you are in the water, keep watching for wildlife, as it is likely you'll see turtles and other animals. However, if you don't see anything while paddling, stop by the visitors' center and check out some snakes. If you want to make a weekend of it, stay at the campground. Alternatively, if you only have the day, bring a picnic and enjoy walking the trails as well as kayaking. Stumpy Lake In 2012, a new kayak launch was built for a Virginia Beach Lake. Off of Indian River Road in Virginia Beach, you will find Stumpy Lake and their relatively new kayak launch. Although you are in the city, it feels as if you are miles away from it all. Here kayakers enjoy exploring the calm, fresh water and watching for wildlife. You don't have to worry about any motorized boats creating waves, as only non-motorized boats are allowed. Chesapeake Bay One of the greatest treasures in Virginia is the Chesapeake Bay. Not only is this area filled with a distinguished history, but visitors are often treated with views of swimming dolphins. You can make this experience even better by taking your kayak out into the bay in hopes to catch a glimpse of the dolphins. Watch for other wildlife as well, because this area of the world has many interesting animals to see. Hoffler Creek Wildlife Preserve Another excellent area to kayak as well as to see some wildlife is the Hoffler Creek Wildlife Preserve in Portsmouth, Virginia. Here you can rent a kayak if you don't own one, and explore a new and exciting world of kayaking. Wooded areas surround the place and it is home to many animals. Expect to see many water birds. If you are up for more adventure, explore the hiking trails around the preserve and see other wildlife that may not have been near the water. As you can see, you have many places to go kayaking in near Chesapeake. Now that you know where to go, grab your kayak and head out for an adventure. Photo by Vanerpaddel | Licensed cc BY 2.0

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

Whether you like breakfast or not, most people can agree that brunch is a great meal to share with friends and family. It is not a meal you have to eat early in the day like breakfast, and it is not limited to just breakfast food. Plus, it is typically a meal that you take the time to enjoy, possibly with a cocktail in hand. But where do you go for such an outstanding experience? You need to visit one of these best brunch restaurants in Chesapeake. D'cracked Egg D'cracked Egg is a locals' favorite, and by the name of it, you would think it was the eggs that everyone loves. However, the most raved-about item on the menu is their sweet potato pancakes. Ask anyone who has tried them and he or she will say, "They are the best pancakes I have ever had!" On Saturday or Sunday, stop by and try the buffet where you can sample many items off the menu and also order a couple of eggs just the way you like them. more The Egg Bistro Another locals' favorite is The Egg Bistro on Kempsville Road. Here you will find various brunch choices, including the beloved Blue Crab Benedict. If you prefer something a little more lunch-like, try the Caprese Panini — it will melt in your mouth. If you would like a cocktail, try something off the mimosa menu. Top your meal with a great dessert from the ever-changing menu. Make sure you show up early on Saturday and Sunday because this place gets busy fast. Nix Restaurant There is something to be said for that classic diner nostalgia, and that is what you find when you enter the Nix Restaurant on American Legion Road. But don't be fooled by the appearance, because the food here is better than any diner around. It is definitely classified as comfort food and not health food, but every item on the menu is incredibly tasty. Stop by any day of the week, from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m., to enjoy a classic brunch meal. Handsome Biscuit If you are looking for a unique place for brunch, try the Handsome Biscuit. Located on Colonial Avenue, this restaurant has a menu like no other. For example, one of the favorite items you can order is the Hella Fitzgerald. This meal consists of fried chicken, bacon, and cheddar cheese all on a biscuit and smothered in spicy gravy. Alternatively, there are several other breakfast sandwiches that all come in a sweet potato biscuit. Although there are many tables outside, there are only a few tables inside, so plan accordingly if it is cold or rainy. Don't forget to end your meal with the biscuit pudding and leave happy, full, and smiling. Although breakfast may not be your thing, brunch most definitely is after seeing what all these fine restaurants have to offer. Call a friend or family member and make a date to enjoy brunch this week at one of the best brunch places in Chesapeake. You'll be happy you did. Photo by _SoFie | Licensed under cc BY-ND 2.0