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Despite the name, the Great Dismal Swamp of Virginia and North Carolina is a beautiful wetlands and wildlife refuge that covers 112,000 acres. It is the largest remaining piece of a habitat that once filled southeastern Virginia. Hampton Roads residents and vacationers from across America come to the Great Dismal Swamp to enjoy this unique ecosystem and have fun doing all kinds of activities like these. Hiking and Biking The Great Dismal Swamp has more than 80 miles of hiking and biking trails, including dirt, gravel, and boardwalk paths. The trails start at the five entry points to the refuge, but they mostly stick to the northern side of the park. If hiking is too slow or too tiring but you don't own a bicycle, you can rent one at a shop before you enter. However, you should remember that going off the paths is not allowed, for safety reasons and to keep the wildlife of the refuge safe from human activity. more Drive to Lake Drummond If you want to experience the Great Dismal Swamp from the comfort and security of your vehicle, or if you don't have enough time to hike or bike the miles of trails between the Railroad Ditch entrance and Lake Drummond, you can get a driving permit from the ranger station and go on a driving tour of the refuge. The lake's water is very brown but also surprisingly pure thanks to the way peat soil leaches its color into the lake water, making it a very unusual sight. Watch the Wildlife The wetlands of southeastern Virginia are home to hundreds of species of wildlife, and you have a good chance of seeing something even if you never stray from the beaten path. Deer, coyotes, bobcats, otters, and black bears call the Great Dismal Swamp home, and birdwatchers have identified over 200 species that either nest in the swamp full-time or move through during the annual migrations. If you prefer butterflies, you can find over 80 species growing there or passing through the area during summer. Hunting and Fishing Hunting days and permits are limited in the Great Dismal Swamp, but if the population is high for white-tail deer or black bears, the rangers open hunting season for a week or two in October and November. You can also take a non-powered boat on Lake Drummond either by driving it in from the west or paddling down the canal to the east. If you have a Virginia freshwater fishing license, you can drop your line in the lake to fish for crappie, yellow perch, flier, chain pickerel, and catfish. With so much land to explore and so many animal species to discover, the Great Dismal Swamp is a fun place for the thousands of visitors who come through every year. Just make sure you know the rules before you go and stick with them during your visit, because keeping the swamp clean ensures that it will still be there when you want to bring along your kids and your grandkids. Image via Flickr by deveion acker

There are few dining options quite as romantic as a waterfront restaurant. Even in a place like Chesapeake, Virginia, there are restaurants you can go to enjoy a waterfront meal with a special someone. Whether you're celebrating your anniversary or going on a first date, a romantic view always helps. Here are four waterfront restaurants that are great for romantic meals in and around Chesapeake. Amber Lantern Restaurant The Amber Lantern Restaurant is located at 5532 Bainbridge Point. It is the quintessential romantic waterfront dining experience that overlooks the Elizabeth River. Treat yourself to delicious filet mignon, fresh seared ahi tuna, crab stuffed shrimp, or a rack of lamb. In addition to high end dinners, the Amber Lantern Restaurant is known for its decadent desserts including its tiramisu strip cake, coconut cream bomb cake, and lemon berry mascarpone cake. more Lockside Bar & Grill If your idea of a romantic meal involves less fine dining and more fresh seafood and access to a full bar, Lockside Bar & Grill is a restaurant worth checking out. It is located just off of the Elizabeth River at 200 Battlefield Boulevard West, Suite 13. In addition to dinner, Lockside Bar & Grill serves high quality breakfast and brunch favorite perfect for savoring on a lazy and romantic weekend morning with your partner. Consider choosing an order of banana pancakes or a spinach and feta omelet. The Barking Dog The Barking Dog might not be what some people consider romantic because it serves up casual American food like burgers, hot dogs, and French fries. However, the views of the waterfront from the restaurant's expansive windows are breath taking and cannot be matched by any of the other locations on this list. It's technically a short drive away in neighboring Hampton, Virginia. Since it's a more cost effective romantic dining option, you can probably make a few dates here. Passion the Restaurant At Passion the Restaurant you can enjoy an elegant and refined meal created by an award winning chef. You can try a variety of options from its extensive menu to celebrate your romantic special occasions. Start with an appetizer like the cheese plate, the truffle mac & cheese, or a mini rack of lamb. For dinner, try the Applewood Bacon & Maytag Filet Mignon or the Virginia Crab Cakes. For dessert, order the White Chocolate Bread Pudding, the Tri-Brulee, or one of the seasonal flavors of home made ice cream and sorbet. Once a week, there is half priced wine night where you can choose your favorite wine from the wine list for a great price. The restaurant is located at 1036 Volvo Parkway. These are just some of the great restaurants in Chesapeake that are worth checking out for your next romantic date. Most of these restaurants offer a great selection of food, wine, and, in some cases, locally brewed craft beer. For many couples, these restaurants become their go-to spots to celebrate romantic occasions and birthdays. Image via Flickr by Katja Hasselkus https://www.flickr.com/photos/hasselkus-pr/13560854924/sizes/l

Getting your driver's license for the first time is exciting, whether you're 16 years old or 30. It's also a bit scary. Here are five tips for new drivers about to embark on the road alone for the first time. These tips will keep you safe and less nervous about the new driving adventures that await. Avoid High Risk Situations There are some situations that are more high risk than others. For instance, driving during a thunderstorm or at night is much more dangerous than driving in dry weather in the light. Plan your first solo drives during ideal weather conditions and time of day to improve your sense of confidence before you go out on your own. There's no reason to make it more difficult or daunting than it needs to be. more Practice Driving Before you head out on the road for the first time, practice driving around an empty parking lot, with a driving teacher, or with a friend or family member. If there are certain aspects of driving that you don't completely feel comfortable with, it's okay to spend extra time practicing. For instance, if you don't feel comfortable parallel parking, it's much better to practice parallel parking around your home rather than downtown where you might hit other cars. Avoid Rush Hour Traffic Rush hour traffic can be difficult for even the most experienced of drivers. There are more drivers on the road and more instances of road rage. When you go for your first drive, plan it for a low traffic time where you won't feel pressured or stressed out because of the traffic conditions. During the day when everyone's at work or early on a weekend morning is typically great times for reduced traffic levels. Take it Slow While driving on your own can be exciting, it's a good idea to spread out the fun. Your first drives should be short and to places near you that you're comfortable traveling to. You don't want to worry about how to get to places in a new city, even with a GPS, during your first few drives. After a year of driving or so, you'll feel more than confident traveling to new places. For now, just focus on driving where you'll feel the most relaxed. Learn Cardinal Directions For all new drivers, it's important to learn where North, South, East, and West are relative to where you're driving. Memorize the names of the city or town nearest to you in each of these directions. Also, if you live where there are other landmarks, such as a beach coast, memorize its location, too. That way, whenever you're out, you'll know you've gone too far if you see one of these places on a nearby road sign. Congratulations for taking the first step toward a long and rewarding lifetime of driving. It's a great skill to have. By using these tips, staying safe, and taking your time, you'll be able to travel virtually anywhere in your car. https://www.flickr.com/photos/sundazed/2936063407/sizes/l Image via Flickr by Katy Warner

Driving on a highway can be intimidating, particularly, if you're only used to driving on city or small neighborhood streets. There are more cars traveling at even higher speeds. This can lead to more serious car accidents. Use these tips to stay safe while driving on the highway. Stay on the Right If you're uncomfortable speeding with other cars on the highway, it's okay to stay in the slow lane on the right. Just make sure that you're driving the speed limit and don't impede traffic by going too slow. If you don't feel comfortable driving the posted speed limits (or speed minimums) on the highway, it might be a good idea to drive an alternative route that skips the highway all together. more Take Turns If you need to merge, let the other car go and then go after them. Take turns with other drivers on the road whenever possible. If there seems to be traffic ahead, avoid honking your horn. Cars usually slow down for a reason, there might be a car accident or a disabled car off to the side of the road. Be patient and eventually the traffic will clear up. There's no reason to frustrate yourself or to develop road rage toward the other drivers. They're in the same situation that you are. Avoid Highway Traffic There are certain times of the day when there's a higher chance of encountering highway traffic. For instance, rush hour getting to and from work can be a predictable source of traffic. If at all possible, try to avoid driving on the highway during this time. Even leaving thirty minutes before or after these times can help you stay safer on the highway just due to the fewer number of cars on the road. Turn Off Distractions Driving with your cell phone is extremely dangerous. Some automotive manufacturers have even toyed with the idea that cell phones would become non-operational when the car is set to drive. Do what you can to not use your cell phone while driving. Even a few seconds to check out a text message or an email is long enough to put you and the other drivers on the highway in danger. If you have to use your cell phone, pull over to a safe place and use it. Use Your Mirrors When driving on the highway, it is especially important to use your rear view and side mirrors before switching into a lane. Because of the higher density of cars on the road, the fast speeds, and the poor driving habits of others, it's critical to make sure that it's safe to merge or switch into a different lane before you do. Using your mirrors is a great way to ensure that it's safe to go. Driving on highways is a great way to save time and to travel anywhere you want to go. Many of the major highways systems in the United States even have rest stops you can use along the way. Use these tips to make your highway travels even safer. https://www.flickr.com/photos/primejunta/83753072/sizes/o/ Image via Flickr by Petteri Sulonen

You can find a variety of great bars in Norfolk. While there are a lot of bars, the best bars for the most fun are themed bars. Norfolk has several themed bars that stand out from the rest in terms of creativity, authenticity, and enjoyability. If you are interested in finding a great bar, here are the 3 best themed bars in Norfolk. Grace O'Malley's If you want the best themed bar in Norfolk, nothing beats an Irish pub. Irish pubs are the standard for themed bars and bars in general. They often have the liveliest atmosphere, as well as the best food and drinks. Grace O'Malley's is the best Irish pub in Norfolk. It is known for its food and high quality drinks. Customers rave about the fun that they have at Grace O'Malley's. On holidays, Grace O'Malley's goes the extra distance to make them exciting by having house specials and specialty drinks. It's also a great place to reserve for special events. Grace O'Malley's also hosts music and comedy acts nearly every night, so it is the perfect bar to spend your Friday and Saturday nights in. more Elixa Elixa is another great themed bar option in Norfolk. It is themed after a rustic upscale American bar featuring a long of wood and rod iron appointments. It has the feel of being in an upscale popup bar that will be gone the next day. However, Elixa never leaves and you can always return for more fun. The atmosphere is very relaxing which makes it easy to unwind at the end of a long day. You can grab a table or take a seat at the bar for a drink. The food options are exceptional including options that you usually cannot get in a bar. The drink selection is extensive as well which is great for pairing. If you are looking for a place to unwind in either a laidback or slightly fancier atmosphere, Elixa is the place that you want to try first. The Birch The Birch reminds many people of an old neighborhood bar that you would find on the street corners. It is not fancy, but it isn't a mess either. The Birch is the appropriate level of laid back that everyone enjoys. You can find a large selection of beers including craft beers from all around. The selection and quality will have you coming back for new options for a long time. One of the best parts about The Birch is the food options. It offers a variety of options including cheese plates to pair with your drink. If you are looking for a new bar experience, the perfect bar is waiting for you in Norfolk. The themed bars are a great setting for family and friends nights, or to unwind after a stressful day. Since Norfolk is full of great themed bars, you should get out and try as many as you can find. There are great bars in Norfolk for you to discover. https://www.flickr.com/photos/stuart_spivack/3351433581/sizes/l Image via Flickr by stu_spivack

Concept models offer a fascinating insight into where leading automakers think the market will be headed in future years. Often exhibiting top-notch technology that may or may not exist yet, the concept models from Toyota are triumphs of design. We've listed our top five favorite concept models from Toyota that we hope to see on the road soon. FT-1 Sleek and aggressive, the FT-1 Concept is designed for the track. It's body hugs the ground and is molded for maximum aerodynamic performance, without sacrificing aesthetics. This concept vehicle draws from Toyota's race car past yet embodies Toyota's vision of racing's future. The design lines of the FT-1 are clearly tied to the track. Shark-like mouths vent the air from under the hood, equipped with additional fans to keep the roaring engine cool. The interior is all understated leather with pops of red of a competitive, sporty feel. more Kikai The Kikai has a decidedly steampunk feel, with style and body lines that harken back to early 20th century vehicles, but with upgraded tech more at home with science fiction. Carefully chosen cutaways reveal the inner workings of the engine, displaying the arms and springs that power the vehicle to turn them from simple machine components to part of the overall vehicle aesthetic. Instead of the typical side-oriented driver's seat, the Kikai has the driver placed squarely in the middle, with a window between the feet that shows the passing road and the vehicle's wheels. S-FR A play on the Scion build, the S-FR is modular yet sleek, designed to be a consumer-friendly roadster with a racing lean. The modular styling is a nod to the auto designs of the 1970s, but the overall vehicle has been updated and designed enough not to create an overly vintage feel, but rather an homage from the future. The vehicle would run off a six-speed manual for the true racing driving experience. Concept-i One of the more modular and surprising vehicles put out by Toyota's concept car team, the Concept-i is pod-shaped with gull-wing doors for a hyper-stylized, science fiction feel. This little car may be strange looking, but it's an embodiment of the shift the auto industry is taking towards autonomous vehicles. Self-piloting, the Concept-i is guided by an interface Toyota has dubbed Yui. This AI system works to create a customized, comfortable, and safe driving experience for its handler. For example, if the Yui system senses the driver getting distracted, it speaks to engage the driver again with the road and keep them attentive. FCV Plus Exhibiting futuristic fuel cells, the FCV Plus is a futuristic concept vehicle that utilizes a hydrogen fuel cell stack that turns hydrogen into electricity to power the engine. Each of the wheels has its own individual electric engine to add an extra power boost, plus they eliminate the need for drive axles that would take up extra space in the vehicle. As a result, the FCV is surprisingly roomy despite its compact frame. These five vehicles are just a small sample of the concept cars that Toyota has developed. With futuristic details and superb styling, we hope to see these cars headed towards the market soon! Image via Toyota.com

Toyota's Avalon has been a popular vehicle since it's inception, taking on the already flooded full-sized sedan market and carving out a niche for itself. The 2017 model takes this dependable legacy and builds on it, thrilling loyal customers and winning new fans. We've listed our top five things you'll adore about the 2017 Avalon to get you excited about this fantastic vehicle. Comfort If there's anything that can be said about the 2017 Avalon it's that it's insanely comfortable. With deep comfortable seats that are at once plush and supportive, long trips are a breeze. Neither driver nor passenger should feel cramped or uncomfortable, no matter where they're sitting in the cabin. All of the 2017 Avalon trims come with buttery soft leather, a definite improvement over scratchy upholstery seats. The front seats come standard with heating for those chilly winter months and, for drivers who regularly have backseat passengers, there are optional rear row warmers for a luxurious backseat experience. more Styling The 2017 Avalon has a wide, aggressively styled grille, which is often the first thing viewers notice about this vehicle. Newly styled for 2017, the body lines of the Avalon are consistent with auto trends. Curving wheel wells add a streamlined appearance while the overall design of the vehicle manages to merge aerodynamic sleekness while still staying an elegant yet uniquely stylized sedan. Ride As a full-sized sedan, the Avalon manages to use its weight to its advantage. The Avalon's ride is incredibly smooth. A perfectly tuned suspension keeps the car hugging the road on tight turns. Its steering system is tight enough to perform beautifully in both the city and on the highway, while still maintaining a comfortably weighted feel. Another positive for the Avalon's ride is how quiet the cabin remains, even at top highway speeds. Special engineering keeps the acoustics to a minimum for an improved ride experience. Power The Avalon is powered by a V6 engine that gets a whopping 268 horsepower. This massive engine is sure to impress both commuters and speed junkies alike. This additional power makes navigating all driving conditions easier than ever since the Avalon has impressive pickup. Despite its large engine, the Avalon still gets a respectable fuel economy. The vehicle can get up to 21 miles to the gallon in the city and 30 on the highway, which is impressive for its class and size of vehicle. Technology A 7-inch touchscreen comes standard with every 2017 Avalon model. This screen is equipped with Toyota's excellent Entune interface, which keeps all the vehicle's information and entertainment just a finger touch away, not to mention the navigation system. The screen is expertly fitted into the dashboard to create a streamlined and intuitive layout. Besides this infotainment system, the 2017 Avalon also has Bluetooth for handsfree calls and a voice control system. The vehicle also features some impressive safety technology such as adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warnings, lane-departure warnings with intervention, and automatic pre-collision braking. These are just five of the reasons you'll love the new 2017 Avalon, but to see what really impresses you, go test drive one and see what makes this one of the most exciting sedans of 2017. Image via Toyota.com

Living in Norfolk, Virginia, comes with many great perks. One of them is getting to enjoy the many events in and around the city. Here are some of the best events coming to Norfolk in May. Spring Town Point Virginia Wine Festival Located at Norfolk's downtown waterfront at Town Point Park, the Spring Town Point Virginia Wine Festival returns for the 11th year on May 6–7. Open from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. both days, come to try some new wines and enjoy the live music. Admission with a tasting ticket is $40 on Saturday and $35 on Sunday. You can also splurge and get a VIP Tasting Ticket, which gives you access to the VIP Lounge. If you get a reserved table, you and seven other guests will get into the festival and have a table reserved just for you. Each tasting ticket includes a souvenir glass. For those that want to attend without tasting, the cost is $25 on Saturday and $20 on Sunday. more Veer Local Music Awards Festival For the past five years, Veer Magazine has celebrated the talent of local musicians with music awards. Norfolk Festevents has teamed up with Veer Magazine to bring those awards to life. The winning bands will be brought together on May 11 from 6 to 11 p.m. to show why they deserved the accolades. It will be a great night of music, dancing, and fun. Spring Street Fair On Saturday, May 13, the Smartmouth Brewing Co. is hosting a Spring Street Fair to benefit the Chesapeake Bay Foundation. From noon until 7 p.m., you can listen to live bands, grab some grub from food trucks, and try 20 taps. There will be carnival-style games and prizes to win as well. These classic games include beer bottle ring toss, dunk tank, duck pond, and beer can alley. The fair will be at 1309 Raleigh St. in Norfolk and there's no admission fee. Virginia Beer Festival On May 20–21 is the Virginia Beer Festival. Located at Town Point Park in Norfolk, this festival highlights beers from local breweries. In addition to locals, there will be breweries from all over the country, from California to Wisconsin to New York. In addition to great food and brews, enjoy live music at the venue. Saturday features Anthony Rosano and the Conqueroos, a blues group, and Sunday features Brackish Water Jamboree, a group that plays bluegrass country. Daily entry with tasting tickets cost between $25 and $40. This includes a 6-ounce souvenir glass and complimentary samples of more than 150 beers. Those 12 to 20 years old (or those not wishing to taste) can purchase a general admission ticket for $20. Anyone under 12 is free. Premium tickets can also be purchased for exclusive benefits that include a private seating area, exclusive beer tasting, light food, private bathrooms, and a culinary expert that pairs deluxe food with beer. Where will you be this May? Pick one or all of these events to liven up your spring. https://www.flickr.com/photos/shreveportbossier/6035430355/sizes/l Image via Flickr by Shreveport-Bossier: Louisiana's Other Side

All-New 2018 Toyota C-HR The All-New 2018 Toyota C-HR will be arriving soon and we wanted to give you a first look into the amazing details of this new crossover addition to the Toyota family. So, what is in a name? For the C-HR, it means Compact or Coupe High-Rider. Coming in two trim levels, the XLE starting at $22,500 MSRP and the XLE Premium starting at $24,350 MSRP, promise to make every turn of the wheel pure excitement. Let's take a closer look at key features of the 2018 C-HR. Exterior The C-HR's exterior is diamond-like styling meets sporty city driving. With a very distinctive style and rebellious spirit, every detail will shine. Equipped with standard 18-in. vortex style sport alloy wheels, halogen headlights and taillights with unique cluster LED Daytime running lights, the C-HR will turn heads. Also standard, a cantilevered, aerodynamic rear spoiler and C-pillar rear door handles. For those who are ready to color outside the lines, there are available unique R-Code color designs. This paint treatment option gives you additional colors including a contrasting roof color to ensure you never blend into the crowd. Interior The interior of the C-HR further accentuates the diamond-inspired look and feel and includes standard soft-touch, leather-trimmed steering wheel, and satin-plated shift knob.  And if you like it cool and your friend likes it warm, you are covered with standard dual-zone automatic climate control. Not to mention the available driver/passenger heated seats. The C-HR comes standard with an auto-dimming rearview mirror with an integrated backup camera to help you make all the right moves. The hatch opens to reveal a large cargo area and boasts 60/40 split rear seats to allow for even more storage. Standard Toyota Safety Sense P™ (TSS-P) and Safety The Toyota Safety Sense P suite offers a host of key safety features to help keep you and your loved ones safe on the road. It also includes full-speed range dynamic radar cruise control, pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, standard lane departure alert with steering assist, and automatic high beams. Plus the all-new 2018 Toyota C-HR comes standard equipped with 10 airbags and the Star Safety System. Ask one of our Sales Consultants to provide you with full details on these amazing safety features. Technology The C-HR is also packed with cutting-edge tech and the performance that you are craving. Available with Smart Key System and Push Button Start, you'll never waste time looking for your keys. And then there are the Available Toyota C-HR puddle lights when you want to make an entrance. When you approach the C-HR XLE Premium with your Smart Key fob and touch the door handle sensor, the power mirrors will fold out and display an illuminated C-HR logo on the ground. What! You'll also experience the standard 4.2" color multi-information display, as well as, the standard 7-in. touch-screen display that controls your in-vehicle entertainment. Performance Now let's talk performance in the all-new 2018 Toyota C-HR. Toyota engineers have raised the bar with this 2.0-liter 4-cylinder Dynamic Force engine the provides a perfect blend of performance and fuel economy (manufacturer-estimated 27/31 MPG). With a sport-tuned suspension and advance Continuously Variable Transmission and Shift Mode (CVTi-S) the ride will be smooth and precise. And don't forget to test out the Sport mode inspired by race cars for lively acceleration. So are you ready for the all-new 2018 Toyota C-HR? Contact us by phone, email or in person today for expected arrival date. 757-213-5000 Image via Toyota.com

Norfolk Naval Station is a fascinating area with a long history. Whether you're visiting a loved one on base or you're just exploring the area, there's plenty to do near the Norfolk Naval Station. We've listed our top four favorite spots to visit that are sure to be a hit for residents and tourists alike. Take a look at our list and start planning your next trip today! Battleship Wisconsin The Battleship Wisconsin is a must-see location for military buffs and casual visitors alike. An Iowa-class warship, the battleship was launched in 1943 and was decommissioned in 1991 after serving in World War II, Korea, and the Gulf War. This ship is a fantastic example of American craftsmanship and is a stunning piece of history. more Visitors are welcome aboard to take a tour of the Battleship Wisconsin and learn more about its fascinating history and service. It currently serves as a museum dedicated to preserving the history of American military efforts and is still owned by the Navy. If need be, the ship can be returned to active duty, which adds an extra level of interest for visitors who want to see what an actual battleship is like. Hermitage Museum and Gardens The Hermitage Museum and Gardens is a picturesque destination in Norfolk that is a popular spot for weddings. The grounds are home to beautiful gardens and a well-preserved historic home. The home was built in the early 1900s and was home to a private family before becoming a part of the Smithsonian Affiliations program. Spanning approximately 5,000 years, the art collection housed at the Hermitage is impressive, to say the least. There is also an arts program available for those who are interested in taking art classes, plus twelve acres of gardens that visitors are welcome to wander. Norfolk Botanical Gardens These impressive botanical gardens span 175 acres and are the perfect place to spend a sunny afternoon. Whether you're just looking for a bit of exercise or you're an avid gardener, the Norfolk Botanical Gardens have something for everyone. There are 52 individual gardens within the larger acreage, and the gardens are home to one of the largest collections of azaleas, camellias, roses, and rhododendrons in the United States. For little ones, the gardens recently unveiled their World of Wonders section, which includes a 3-acre children's garden where kids can learn about plants and animals. Virginia Zoo Another popular spot for the young and young at heart, the Virginia Zoo is a fun and educational destination for all. Spread over 52 acres, the zoo was opened in 1900 and continues to be a favorite spot for both residents and visitors to the area. Come learn more about fascinating animals like giraffes and lions, or learn more about local wildlife. There are more than 500 animals housed in the zoo, and the Virginia Zoo is committed to the well-being of all its residents. There's also a train on site on which you can get excellent views of the wildlife and give your feet a break. These are just a few of the fun activities near the Norfolk Naval Station. Be sure to check out each of these locations' websites for information on special events! https://www.flickr.com/photos/madmiked/229773887/sizes/l Image via Flickr by Mike Durkin

A great family vehicle goes above and beyond to protect the driver and passengers with the latest safety technology. It should keep them safe and comfortable, while also starting at an affordable price and making every gallon of fuel stretch as far as possible. In these ways and others, the 2017 Toyota RAV4 is a superb crossover. To learn more, read on to see some of the best family-friendly aspects of this popular model. Practical Exterior While the RAV4 has an eye-catching and assertive exterior, the real value for families comes from the practical features. Available LED headlights, tail lights, and daytime running lights give the RAV4 far better visibility, both for the driver looking ahead and for nearby vehicles and pedestrians. Seeing and being seen is crucial in responding to dangers, and the RAV4 has just what drivers need in a convenient and affordable package included on most models. There are even automatic high beams that switch off or on depending on whether another driver is at risk of being blinded. Some models also include a hands-free power liftgate, making it far easier to lower the height of the floor. This makes big grocery trips, moving days, road trips, and other loading challenges less of a hassle. more Safety Sense P The 2017 RAV4 comes with one of Toyota's most comprehensive active safety packages yet: Toyota Safety Sense P. For example, many Toyota models have included Lane Departure Warnings, but the new steering assist feature detects the lane marking on the road and provides gentle, corrective steering that makes it harder to veer out of your lane unintentionally. Auto safety isn't just about avoiding other cars, which is why the Safety Sense P system also comes with a Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection. This system constantly monitors the way ahead with radar signals that can detect the profile of a pedestrian, flashing a warning to the driver and even automatically braking if they don't respond in time. Efficient and Exciting The non-hybrid RAV4 earns up to 23 mpg city and 30 mpg highway, very competitive for its class. These ratings come from a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with up to 176 horsepower and 172 pound-feet of torque. This well-balanced and responsive powertrain is further polished by an available all-wheel drive configuration with Dynamic Torque Control, which constantly adjusts the torque delivered to each of the wheels based on the pressures they face at any given second. One of the most helpful features for fuel efficiency and convenience is Dynamic Cruise Control. This advanced radar system detects the speed of the car ahead and maintains a set distance, adjusting the speed and even stopping entirely as needed. This lets you sit back and relax while the RAV4 gets through stop-and-go traffic with peak efficiency. We hope you consider the RAV4 for your next crossover, as its collection of features suits families particularly well. If you'd like to know more about the RAV4 from 2017 or prior years, contact us by phone, email, or in person today. Image via Toyota.com

Years ago, the Toyota Prius was a watershed hybrid vehicle that people weren't sure about. Now hybrids are well established in the automobile market, and the Prius has expanded into a family of four different models. Read on to learn the key differences between the most recent editions of each of these Prius hybrids. Prius The modern Prius is a sharply designed and techy mid-size car with 54 mpg city and 50 mpg highway, but today the model excels in every other aspect as well. The full Toyota Safety Sense P package comes standard, adding extra convenience technology like all-speed dynamic cruise control. LED headlights and taillights make the Prius hard to miss, and the interior comes packed with a 4.2-inch multi-information display, a 7-inch touch-screen infotainment system, and more. It's also more comfortable and engaging to drive than ever, thanks to a new cabin design and suspension. more Prius V The Prius V is a family-sized version of the Prius with a total of five or seven seats and 34.3 cubic feet of cargo space. In terms of fuel economy, it earns 43 mpg city and 39 mpg highway — terrific ratings compared to seven-seat non-hybrid crossovers. The seats are easily folded over to make room for large items or extra cargo, and there are generous sunken cargo areas that let you store a few extra items. Roadtrippers might want to opt for the available double panoramic moonroof and heated, eight-way adjustable power-lumbar seats. Prius C The Prius C is an ideal match for city drivers and those who prioritize mobility. As the opposite of the V, the C is a compact car with the same attitude and attractive design as the other models, plus a stellar 48 mpg city and 43 mpg highway. The model starts very affordably, giving drivers room to upgrade with two-toned interior fabric, a moonroof, and touch tracer functionality for the multi-information display. Prius Prime The Prius Prime is a plug-in hybrid model with up to 55 mpg city and 53 mpg highway. Like the standard Prius, the Prime is a mid-size car that excels in city and highway environments. It also boasts up to 22 miles of range through electric power only, meaning you could make short, frequent trips around the neighborhood and keep recharging at home without using a drop of gas. The Prime is an affordable and smart option for drivers who can accommodate a plug-in charger in their garage. It also has some technology unavailable anywhere else, such as the 11.6-inch tall HD multimedia screen. There are more Prius models than ever, so more and more drivers have a chance to try one that fits their style. All of them come with LED exterior lighting, an advanced Toyota Entune system, a multi-information display, Toyota Safety Sense, and more. Contact us today if you have any questions about the current options and features on any of the models above. We can also schedule test drives with any models from our inventory that catch your eye. Image via Toyota.com