Blog

Starting with the 1936 Stout Scarab, minivans have been the face of family commuting for generations for their large amount of space, convenience features, and larger body styles. Today we have SUVs and larger sedans in addition to minivans to accommodate families and their needs on the road. Today, in the realm of Toyota, we have the Toyota Sienna which sports modern and unique features that you can't find in most other Toyota vehicles that separate it as a family vehicle from other vehicles in the lineup. But, do you remember the Toyota Previa? Aptly named from the Spanish and Italian words that translate to "preview" in English, the Toyota Previa was meant to preview technologies to be used in future minivans. Today at Toyota of Clermont we're chronicling the pre-Sienna Toyota minivan and how it paved the way for family vehicles. Paving the Way for the Future of Minivans The Toyota Previa preceded the Toyota Sienna with a run from 1990 to 1997 in the United States. However, the "eggvan" is still in production in Japan and Australia. What makes this minivan unique is the unique mid-engine structure and occasionally used supercharged gasoline and turbocharged diesel engines. Here are a few features that made the Previa unique: The Clermont Toyota Previa offered a driver's side airbag, third brake-light, and dual airbags standard from 1993 to 1994. It was the first minivan to offer a passenger airbag standard. From 1992 to 1997 cam equipped with a swivel feature and optional middle-row captain's chairs. Outside of the U.S., the Previa offered an ice-maker/fridge that could also be used as a beverage heater. Optional dual moonroof The Clermont Toyota Previa was the first van to pass all U.S. safety standards. While the Previa created a preview landscape for minivans of the future, like the Clermont Toyota Sienna, the initial design had a few drawbacks during its production that, sadly, were never improved upon during the North American production. While the mid-engine layout provided several benefits to the Clermont Toyota Previa, like better access to spark-plugs, it made it difficult to perform a tune-up. Mechanics would need to take out the floor panels in order to perform a tune-up. An additional crash test revealed that, while the Previa passed all safety tests, the minivan had a host of issues when it came to a offset frontal crash. Namely, unstable cabin structure, upward moving steering column, and lab belt tearing. The large body design afforded a significant amount of room, but that combined with the diesel or turbocharged engine options yielded below average fuel-efficiency. The typical Clermont Toyota minivan model averaged about 18 mpg city and 21 mpg highway. Drive a More Modern Ride at Toyota of Clermont While the Toyota Previa was discontinued, it paved the way for modern minivans and family vehicles and you can still find some of the iconic features of this vintage minivan in modern Toyota models like the Toyota Sienna. Come check this iconic family vehicle out at Toyota of Clermont today! We're open seven days a week and you can find us at 16851 State Road 50.

It's finally Friday (yay!) and it's time to celebrate the final arrival of the weekend after a long week. While there are definitely a number of great things to do this weekend around Clermont, sometimes you need to get away for a little while. There are the theme parks, different cities, and new restaurants and shops that you've never visited before. But, with the weather being so nice this weekend, it's the perfect time to go the beach! Florida is truly home to the best beaches around and they're right in our backyard (unless you live in Clermont, in which case it's all lakes)! If you're not sure which beach to visit this weekend, Toyota of Clermont is here with a guide to the best beaches you should visit to soak up the sun. The Best Beaches You Should Visit This Weekend New Smyrna Beach If you're looking for an amazing beach that you don't have to drive far to get to, New Smyrna Beach is an excellent option. First, you can park directly on the beach which keeps things super convenient (but, maybe a tad sandy). The sand is powder white and hard packed and perfect for making sand castles. Being right on the space coast, the waves are a tad rougher than the gulf beaches, but that doesn't mean you can't catch a wave or two on a surf board. When you're finished with the beach, feel free to wander around the village for a cold beverage or a ice cream cone. Siesta Key Beach Rated as the one of the best beaches in the U.S., Siesta Key Beach in Sarasota is a Florida favorite. It's a far drive from Clermont, but it's well worth it. The sand is a white powder that feels amazing beneath your feet and the delicate waves are inviting. The warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico are soothing for swimmers and there are several nearby restaurants and attractions for everyone. Clearwater Beach Staying at number one on the best beaches in the U.S. list, Clearwater Beach is located just outside of Tampa and St. Pete. This beach stretches for three miles and features fine white sand and a beautiful pier. The water is largely shallow which makes it a perfect spot for families. The pier features nighttime festivities and beautiful sunset views. St. Augustine Beach A beach town with so much history and a shoreline perfect for pictures, St. Augustine Beach is undoubtedly one of the best beaches you can visit this weekend. The delicate sand is great for laying out and flat shoreline make skimboarding and other water sports a breeze. When you're finished catching some rays of sunshine, feel free to wander to St. Augustine's historical landmarks, like the iconic lighthouse (we hear it might be haunted). Daytona Beach Just up the street from New Smyrna, and home to NASCAR, Daytona Beach is another great beach for convenience and great waves. You can park right along the expansive shoreline and enjoy the waves and soak up some sun. Have a great weekend everyone, soak up some sun, and always wear sunscreen!

Are you sick of riding around in a ride that just doesn't have the entertainment capabilities you really want? We get it - technology today makes listening to music, checking navigation, and scoping traffic easier than ever from the driver's seat. Commandeering an older car without those capabilities can get frustrating, especially when it comes to playing the music you want. However, there's a remedy in sight - upgrading your audio system to get it where you want it to be. But where do you start? Check out Toyota of Clermont's quick guide to upgrading this essential car part below. Where do you start when upgrading your audio system? Step #1: Do your research. You don't want to throw just any product into your car, and you want to make sure whatever you choose is tailored to your audio system needs. Ask yourself what your audio priorities are - do you want a clearer sound? More bass? More infotainment capabilities? Make a list of your wants and then find the equipment that can best satisfy them. You also need to be aware of the work that this project will entail - if you're not comfortable with getting your hands dirty, then you may want to visit our Clermont Toyota service center to get help from our parts and service specialists. You also need to plan to buy audio system parts in a way that's conducive to your budget. Step #2: Choose a new head unit or receiver. Your first purchase when upgrading your audio system should be a new head unit or receiver. This part will allow you to upgrade infotainment capabilities like navigation, Bluetooth streaming, Satellite Radio, and more. Plus, it'll help you decide which speakers you want for your upgraded system. Step #3: Find the right speakers. Before you choose speakers, count how many are in your car. The number can vary pretty widely - we see anywhere from 4-14 in our Clermont Toyotas depending on the system. You may want to replace all of them or you may just want to replace a few depending on your budget. Our pro tip? Start at the front of the car (where you sit) and work your way back so you notice the improvements every time you get behind the wheel. Let Toyota of Clermont point you in the right direction Step #4: Consider an amplifier. After you've figured out how many speakers you need and which ones you want, it's time to invest in an amplifier. This part is essential to your audio system - your new speakers will require more power than your old ones, and you don't want to drain your battery every time you turn up the jams. An amplifier will ensure that your speakers get the power you need without taking a toll on your Clermont Toyota's performance. Start with a four-channel amplifier and move up from there with additional channels depending on how many speakers you need. Step #5: Explore the possibility of a subwoofer. You may also want to invest in a subwoofer for your new updated system. This part pumps up the bass in your ride. Just keep in mind that it's a pretty large speaker - you'll likely need trunk space to house it. Want to start shopping audio system parts or get some expert advice? Call Toyota of Clermont today at (352) 404-7001!

When selecting your new Clermont Toyota vehicle, there are many options you can choose from to make sure that your new ride is exactly the way you want it to be. Some vehicles offer major exterior options like different bumpers and headlights, you can change your interior upholstery materials, tech features, safety features, engine type, the options are limitless. One thing you may or may not have considered along your car buying journey is the type of drivetrain being used in your vehicle. If you're wondering what that is, think about the acronyms, FWD, 4WD, AWD, and RWD. These all inform the driver which wheels on your vehicle are used to propel your vehicle forward. Most come equipped with front and rear wheel drive, but what if you're thinking you need all-wheel drive? Lucky for you, Toyota of Clermont is here to inform you of what all-wheel drive and tell you if you actually need it for your new ride! What is All-Wheel Drive? At this point, you may be wondering what distinguishes all-wheel drive from other drivetrains. For one, all-wheel drive uses all four wheels on your Clermont Toyota vehicle for power and forward motion while front and rear wheel only use two (either the front and the back). The other drivetrain similar to AWD would be four-wheel drive. This drivetrain uses larger and more heavy-duty components in order to provide more power to your vehicle's wheels while all-wheel drive sends constant power to all the wheels, but not in such excess that 4WD does. We get it, it's pretty confusing as to the exact difference between the drivetrains. Essentially, AWD powers your Clermont Toyota car's wheels constantly and is used mainly on luxury vehicles while 4WD provides extra power, can adapt to different terrain, and is often found on off-roading type vehicles, like the Toyota 4Runner. Do You Need All-Wheel Drive on Your Vehicle? Luckily, if you're a native Clermont resident and don't plan on moving to a place where it snows, you most likely won't need to use all-wheel drive on your vehicle. The reason being is that most vehicles are able to get by only using two wheels as that provides enough grip and traction on surfaces that rarely see any type of treacherous conditions. While it does rain frequently in Florida, two wheel drive will be sufficient in keeping your vehicle on the road. Driving somewhere with more rain or snow definitely makes having AWD on your vehicle seem like a good idea, but truthfully its not always necessary. Conditions like these always requires drivers to be alert, aware, and more cautious. Whether or not your Clermont Toyota car is equipped with all-wheel drive, if you're not careful when driving in these conditions you may wind up running into some issues and your drivetrain won't be enough to help. Plus, AWD equipped vehicles are often more expensive than two wheel drive vehicles. All in all, all-wheel drive is ideal for those who need peace of mind from their vehicles, but not necessary, even for those who live in places that experience inclement weather. Ready to get behind the wheel of your new ride or have more questions about all-wheel drive? Come check out your new ride or ask one of our auto service experts any questions at Toyota of Clermont! We're open seven days a week and located at 16851 State Road 50.

Fuel-efficient technology and alternate sources of fuel are taking over the auto industry year after year. Today we have fully-electric vehicles, hydrogen powered vehicles are being studied and developed by Toyota, and hybrid vehicles are getting better and better and more accessible to drivers everywhere. While Toyota began producing hybrids back in 1997 with the introduction the Toyota Prius, Clermont Toyota hybrid vehicles now come in several different shapes, sizes, models, and all with different features that make them unique. If you're someone who has been a long fan of hybrids or someone who's looking to make the switch to a more fuel-efficient and environmentally-friendly vehicle, you might be a tad overwhelmed by all the options available to you or maybe you don't know where to start on your journey to purchasing one. Either way, Toyota of Clermont is here with an easy guide to make buying your new Toyota hybrid vehicle easy! How to Shop for a Toyota Hybrid Vehicle Before shopping for a Clermont Toyota hybrid vehicle, there are a few things you should consider to be a more informed buyer: Hybrid cars are more fuel-efficient than their internal combustion engine counterparts. They use a combination of electric powered drivetrain and small internal combustion engine. They don't have a significant cost difference than a typical gasoline car regarding maintenance, but they do come at an initially higher sticker price. Clermont Toyota hybrid cars are not fully-electric, but they draw a lot of electric power and use that power at lower commuting speeds and then gasoline at higher speeds. While the Prius began the hybrid craze back in the 90s, today there are several new models of hybrid that cover sedans and now SUVs. Here are a few Toyota hybrid models that you can find on our lot at Toyota of Clermont that might interest you: 2019 Toyota Camry Hybrid The Toyota Camry is one of the world's most popular sedans and the hybrid model increases its beloved fuel efficiency while maintaining the same style and convenience features many drivers love. The Camry hybrid clocks in at 52 combined mpg and even includes an EV mode that allows drivers to use solely electric power to drive for a short period of time. 2020 Toyota Corolla Hybrid For the first time ever, the Clermont Toyota Corolla hybrid brings amazing fuel efficiency (EPA estimated 52 combined mpg). 2019 Toyota Avalon Hybrid With an estimated combined 44 mpg, the Toyota Avalon is not only completely redesigned inside and out, but it includes a plethora of new features that will excite drivers behind the wheel of this all-new ride. 2019 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid Redesigned, powerful, and ultra fuel-efficient! The Toyota RAV4 hybrid sports 41 mpg highway and even more power than its internal combustion engine counterpart. This model also includes an EV mode. 2019 Toyota Highlander At 30 mpg highway, the Toyota highlander hybrid takes fuel efficiency to a whole new level with a large SUV. Even with a hybrid engine, the Clermont Toyota Highlander still muscles 306 net horsepower.   Ready to get behind the wheel of your next green ride? Come check out your new Toyota hybrid vehicle right here at Toyota of Clermont! We're located at 16851 State Road 50 and open seven days a week!

When it comes to buying a first car - whether it's your first vehicle purchase or you're looking for a drive time solution for your new teen driver - there are a lot of options to consider. You want something affordable, safe, and reliable, but you also want something somewhat stylish and with enough technology to keep the driver happy. How can you possibly find that mix AND stay within a tight budget? Get behind the wheel of the new 2019 Toyota Yaris, of course. This much-loved sedan is a great starter car and Toyota of Clermont is here to tell you precisely why. Why is the Toyota Yaris such a great first car? First, let's talk about the price - the 2019 Toyota Yaris starts out at just $15,450. This means it's super-affordable for you OR your teen driver, but since 80% of all Toyotas are still out on the road 20 years later, you can also count on a lifetime of performance from it. It's also exceptionally fuel-efficient, getting 30/39 mpg to ensure that your stops at the pump will be few and far between and when you do have to stop, it won't cost an arm and a leg to fill the tank. What else makes this Clermont Toyota such a great purchase for first-time buyers? Here are some of the other things we love about the 2019 Toyota Yaris: Safety tech is on point. You can rest easy whether you or your new teen driver will be behind the wheel. You'll have features like a low-speed pre-collision system, an Advanced Airbag System with 6 airbags, a tire pressure monitoring system, and 3-point seatbelts for all seating positions. Plus, you'll find an Active Safety System engaged every time you drive with features like Brake Assist, Traction Control, Dynamic Stability Control, and more. You'll even have a first aid kit at your disposal for convenience. It's tech-driven despite its affordable price tag. The Clermont Toyota Yaris has a 7" touchscreen interface for the audio system and gives you connectivity to Aha Radio, Sirius XM Satellite Radio, Bluetooth streaming, Stitcher, and iPod connectivity. You'll also find an integrated backup camera in the mix, as well as two USB 2.0 ports for connectivity and charging and integrated navigation to give you turn-by-turn directions to your destination. Automatic climate control keeps you comfortable inside the cabin, and you'll find a higher degree of efficiency thanks to a Smart Key System with push-button start. It's even stylish. You may think that for the price you're paying, you won't get much in terms of style. The Clermont Toyota Yaris comes through in spite of its affordability, offering highlights like a rear spoiler, 16" alloy wheels, LED headlights and daytime running lights, fog lights, and a multitude of eye-catching paint colors. The interior offers a sleek leatherette trim with cool metallic accents and sport bucket front seats. And there are three models to choose from, so you can find the right Toyota Yaris for your preferences. Test drive one at Toyota of Clermont today Want more information or want to schedule your test drive? Call Toyota of Clermont today! We're open and this 2019 Toyota is waiting on our lot for you to get into the driver's seat. You can reach us 7 days a week (352) 404-7000, or swing by and see our selection in person at 16851 State Road 50, just off the Florida Turnpike.

If you're like us, you're likely thinking it's finally Friday and this week seemed to drag on forever. But, now that the weekend is finally here, you're probably also trying to drum up a list of things to do near Orlando to maximize your time off. Luckily there's always a lot to do in the Clermont area on the weekends and there's always something for everyone to enjoy. If you're in the process of narrowing down your gameplan for weekend and looking for fun things to do, check out these five fun things to do near Orlando this weekend and celebrate the arrival of Friday! There's Always Something to do in the Clermont Area 1) German Fest Hosted by Orlando German American Club of Central Florida When: Friday from 5 - 10 pm and Saturday from noon - 10 pm Where: 381 Orange Lane, Winter Park Area Happening on Friday and Saturday this weekend, the German Fest is hosted by the Orlando German American Club of Central Florida and features oktoberfest like festivities. From 5 to 10 pm on Friday and noon to 10 pm on Saturday, enjoy German styled amenities like music, drinks in a beer garden, Schuhplattler (music and dance) performances, and plenty of food! Purchase your tickets online for this event near Orlando and take advantage of special prepay pricing. Also, you can upgrade your ticket to a VIP package that includes several exclusive amenities you won't want to pass up. 2) Movieola Screening of Wall-E When: Friday from 6 - 10 pm Where: Lake Eola, Downtown Orlando area Everyone's favorite Earth cleaning robot is being screened under stars at the beautiful Lake Eola on Friday! Bring a blanket and some lawn chairs and arrive early to get the best view. This event happening near Orlando is also complete with activities before the movie and food vendors for those who get hungry. This is a must for your things to do list! 3) Freddy vs Michael When: Friday at 7 pm Where: Gods and Monsters Vault 5421 (5421 International Drive) Horror movie icons Freddy Krueger and Michael Myers are frightening but tonight they're being celebrated with a free event at Gods and Monsters with a free event you won't want to miss. Themed drinks, movies, and music are only a few things to expect from this gathering of horror movie geeks. There will also be a raffle held at 11:30 pm with great prizes to choose from. 4) Orlando Shakes Presents Richard II When: Friday - Sunday, times vary Where: 812 E Rollins St Need a little dose of Shakespeare to liven up your weekend things to do list? Look no further than Orlando Shakes' production of Richard II. This play is part of Shakespeare's Fire and Reign series that chronicles the events of the Hundred Years' War and Wars of the Roses. Purchase your tickets online and enjoy the show going on all weekend! 5) Independent Bookstore Day When: Saturday, all day Where: Writer's Block Bookstore, Winter Park If you have a local independent bookstore near Orlando that you shop at, Saturday is the day to celebrate them! Independent Bookstore Day celebrates local book stores and small businesses that help to enrich our communities with literacy and good books. Writer's Block Bookstore will be hosting a celebration and you should definitely include this on your things to do list for this weekend! In Clermont and the Orlando area, there's always something going on! Make sure to check out as many events as you can and enjoy your weekend!

Does shopping for car parts confuse you? You're not alone - a vehicle is a complex object and if you don't understand all the ins and outs of how it operates, it can be pretty intimidating to buy the components to keep it running. However, you're in good hands with Toyota of Clermont. We have skilled parts specialists at our dealership who can help you choose, locate, and order/purchase the right car parts for your ride. We also have a fully stocked parts store onsite for you to browse. And to top it all off, we've gathered answers to some of the most commonly asked questions when it comes to auto parts. Start building your parts knowledge below! What do you need to know about car parts before you start shopping? Question #1: What's the difference between OEM and Aftermarket parts? OEM stands for Original Equipment Manufacturer - these parts are made by the manufacturer that makes the car. For example, Toyota makes Toyota parts. These parts are designed by the manufacturer specifically for the makes and models they offer. Aftermarket parts, on the other hand, are designed by non-manufacturer companies. When you use aftermarket car parts, you'll want to check that they're compatible with your car and also that they don't void any warranties or lease agreements that you might have on the vehicle. Question #2: Where can I buy OEM parts? Toyota of Clermont! We're a retailer of Toyota parts, making your life easy. Come in and shop our store or chat with one of our specialists to place an online order for the car parts you need. Question #3: Where can I buy aftermarket parts? You can buy aftermarket parts a lot of places - the internet, auto shops, etc. Just make sure you buy from a reputable seller and always ask if there are any warranties available. And don't forget to check compatibility, your existing warranties, and your lease agreement if you have one. Question #4: Can I buy used car parts for my vehicle? Technically, yes. Do we recommend it? No. Buying used parts isn't a smart investment, in our opinion. Yes, they're cheaper. But they've already gone through wear and tear on another vehicle which means they'll likely need repairs or wear out faster than a new part, costing you more money. Is it worth it long-term? Question #5: What should I do with my old parts when I'm done with them? You can't just throw old parts in the trash - it's not that simple. If you need to get rid of old or damaged parts, try selling them back to a parts dealer or parts shop, selling them for scrap metal, or if all else fails, recycle them. Let Toyota of Clermont help you find and purchase the right parts for your ride Want some assistance when it comes to shopping and ordering Toyota parts? Or maybe you just need an expert opinion. Either way, contact Toyota of Clermont today! You can reach us seven days a week at (352) 404-7001.

The introduction of the new 2019 Toyota RAV4 garnered a lot of attention for its captivatingly good looks, incorporation of all-new features, and new capabilities. New Toyota SUVs continue to take the streets by storm and its easy to see why. They sport the perfect amount of space. performance, luxury, and capability that a driver could ever need. A favorite among the Toyota of Clermont family has always been the iconic Toyota Highlander. Bigger than its RAV4 sibling, this new Toyota SUV is packed with excellent features and gives drivers and their families an unforgettable driving experience. With third row seating, this vehicle is here to carry whoever and whatever you may need wherever you need to go. Fans of this iconic SUV, it's time to celebrate because the 2020 Toyota Highlander will be coming to Toyota of Clermont soon! Check out the details right here before it arrives to the dealership. What's New on the 2020 Toyota Highlander The 2020 model year is set to be a year of amazing new models from Toyota and we're excited to what gets parked  on our lot here at Toyota of Clermont. For the 2020 Toyota Highlander, we're ecstatic and can't wait for it to arrive. Luckily, we don't have to wait very long either! The gasoline powered new Toyota is set to be released in December of this year and the hybrid model in February of next year. When the Highlander redefined the midsize SUV by using a unibody structure that wasn't truck based, it set a new standard for family vehicles. Now in its fourth generation, the only way to go is up and this new Toyota is here to take things up a notch. Here are some of the new features you can expect to see in this Clermont new Toyota SUV: A sophisticated and cutting edge new exterior design that emphasizes clean lines and seamless flow (the platform is designed from Toyota New Global Architecture). Drivers will have the choice between a V6 internal combustion engine or a new hybrid powertrain. The gasoline powered model will get an EPA estimated combined 22 mpg and the hybrid version will get 34 combined mpg. The hybrid drivetrain model will get a combined 240 horsepower and feature Normal, Sport, and Eco drive modes and an EV mode that will allow drivers to pilot their vehicles using only electric power for a short time and distance. Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 with safety features like Pre-Collision system with pedestrian detection, full-range dynamic range cruise control, lane departure alert with steering assist, and more. The new Toyota Highlander will be available in five trim levels including: L, LE, XLE, Limited, and Platinum. The hybrid powertrain will be offered on all trim levels except for L. 20" rims are an available option on the Platinum trim level. Paint color options include: Blizzard Pearl, Celestial Silver Metallic, Midnight Black Metallic, Magnetic Gray Metallic, Moon Dust, Ruby Flare Pearl, Blueprint, and Opulent Amber. Increased leg room for third row seating. Optional AWD, even on the hybrid model! Luxurious interior features like a 12.3" touch screen interface and Qi wireless charging. And much more! Welcome the 2020 Toyota Highlander Coming Soon While it seems far away, December and the 2020 new Toyota Highlander will be at Toyota of Clermont soon! Stay up to date with latest info on this iconic SUV and shop for your next hot new ride today. We're located at 16851 State Road 50 and open seven days a week!

Crossover SUVs are taking the streets by storm in recent years and it's easy to see why. They're they perfect balance between sedan and large sized SUV. They have ample space in the cabin for up to five people, have great fuel efficiency, iconic looks and styles, and provide an all-around excellent driving experience. It's no wonder more and more people are turning to crossover SUVs year after year for their next ride. If you're looking to make the switch or get another SUV, you're likely left debating between a few different makes and models currently on the market. Today, at Toyota of Clermont, we're comparing our favorite Toyota RAV4 to the Honda CR-V. Both are excellent options for your next vehicle, but which one will come out in this edition of car cage match? Read on to find out! The Toyota RAV4 vs. The Honda CR-V The Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4 are both excellent options when it comes to selecting your next crossover SUV. Both present excellent safety features, sporty engineering, good looks, and comfortable interior designs and features. But, when it comes time to sign on the dotted line, which should you choose? Here are a few things to make picking between these two Clermont Toyota cars a little easier: Exterior Looking at both options, it's clear to see some obvious aesthetic differences between the Clermont Toyota RAV4 and the Honda CR-V. The Toyota RAV4 features more of a muscular and angular front bumper with an aggressive stance and gaze. The Honda CR-V opts for a more rounded look towards the lower half of the front bumper, but features angular headlights. Moving along the sides of the body, the CR-V flows well towards the back where you'll find high taillights and nice dual exhaust tailpipes with a chrome surround. The Clermont Toyota RAV4 continues to angular and muscular aesthetic along the sides and rounds out the back with a more compact looking rear end with dual exhaust tailpipes that sit below the alternate paint colored bumper. The Verdict: There is no clear winner for this category. It all depends on your personal style and taste! Engineering These two crossover SUVs feature different engineering and various levels of power. The Clermont Toyota RAV4 uses a naturally aspirated 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that gives off 203 horsepower and 184 lb./ft. of torque. It also gets an EPA estimated 26 mpg city and 35 mpg highway. There Toyota RAV4 has a hybrid model as well that features more power and better fuel efficiency. The Honda CR-V uses a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine that gets 184 horsepower and 180 lb./ft. of torque. While there's no hybrid option, there is a downsized 1.5-liter engine version that's also turbo-charged and gets 190 horsepower and 179 lb./ft. of torque. The Verdict: Between these two Clermont Toyota crossover SUVs, the Toyota RAV4 takes the cake. Interior and Technology Cabin comfort and tech are important things to consider when shopping for a new Clermont Toyota crossover SUV, so let's see how the Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V stack up. The Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V both feature streamlined interior designs that allow for optimal access to features for both the passengers and driver. This aspect is really up to the driver's preference as far as which one's superior. However, the Honda CR-V does feature a larger amount of interior space with 39.2 cubic feet in the trunk (compared to the RAV4's 37.5 cubic feet). When it comes to tech, the Toyota RAV4 features a standard 7-inch touchscreen head unit with a six-speaker sound system and an advanced infotainment system. Higher trim models feature an 8-inch display with an 11-speaker JBL sound system and other features like Qi wireless charging and five USB ports. The Honda CR-V uses a five-inch dash-board embedded touch-screen display with a standard four-speaker sound system. Higher trim levels offer a 7-inch display with a six speaker sound system. The Verdict: When it comes to space, the CR-V takes the cake. But, when it comes to tech and convenience, it's the Clermont Toyota RAV4 crossover SUV that wins! Safety The Clermont Toyota RAV4 crossover SUV features standard stability and traction control systems (called the Star Safety System) along with an advanced airbag system and Toyota Safety Sense P. The safety suite features systems for pre-collision, lane departure warnings, automatic high beams, and dynamic cruise control. This all comes standard, regardless of trim level. The Honda CR-V features standard traction control and stability systems as well and an advanced airbag system. However, the CR-V doesn't include systems like lane-keeping assist, auto high beams, and adaptive cruise control across all trim levels. The Verdict: If you're looking for the highest level of safety without paying extra for it, the Toyota RAV4 is your car! Pricing Now for the most important number of your decision, what's the price? The Clermont Toyota RAV4 crossover SUV is priced at an MSRP of $25,500 and a maximum trim level price of $33,500. The Honda CR-V starts with a lower MSRP of $24,350, but the top trim level price is set at $34,150. The Verdict: While the Honda CR-V starts at a lower price point, it doesn't include several great standard safety and interior features that the RAV4 does. Plus, the Toyota RAV4's highest trim level price is lower than the CR-V's. So, it's safe to say that the RAV4 wins this one!   We can show you the facts all day, but at the end of it all, what matters is how you feel from behind the wheel. So, come see for yourself which vehicle is right for you! Test drive the new Toyota RAV4 crossover SUV at Toyota of Clermont today. We'll make sure you pick the right ride that you'll love driving mile after mile. Visit us at 16851 State Road 50 seven days a week!

When it comes to car care, are you a bit baffled by what goes on under the hood? You're not the only one. Plenty of people are unnerved by the inner workings of their car and would prefer to pass the keys off to someone more experienced. However, even that can be anxiety-inducing - how do you know if they're really on your side and are going to give you the best advice AND pricing to keep your car in the best shape? Toyota of Clermont wants to help by educating you when it comes to what's under the hood. We've answered five common car care questions and you can explore the information below. What do you want to know about car care? Question #1: Can I switch from conventional oil to synthetic? What about synthetic to conventional? Yes - most of the time. Some drivers like to use conventional oil because it's what they're accustomed to and because it's cheaper than synthetic (but doesn't last as long). Other drivers lean toward synthetic because it burns cleaner, lasts longer, and some swear it even improves performance. You can choose whichever you like as long as your car doesn't call for a specific type of motor oil. Ask our car care experts - some cars HAVE to use synthetic oil and using conventional could damage them. Question #2: Should I pay more attention to my owner's manual, my technician, or my instrument panel when it comes to routine car service? You should always pay the most attention to your instrument panel in your car. The warning lights illuminate for a reason, after all. Next, listen to your car care technician. When they're working on your car at Toyota of Clermont, they'll do a multi-point inspection to look for any other issues and can advise you as to which services you need and when. Finally, use your owner's manual as a backup reference for a car care schedule. Question #3: Are winter tires really necessary? Not all the time, but sometimes, yes. If you're a resident in the southern United States, chances are your all-weather tires will suit you just fine throughout the winter. If you live in a colder climate that sees heavy snow, extreme cold, and lots of ice, then you need to schedule a car care appointment to change out your tires. Winter tires are better suited to extreme cold and are more pliable in these conditions, giving them better traction. Question #4: Do I have to replace my timing belt? YES. There's no getting around it - we know that it's expensive, but it's totally necessary. Your timing belt ensures that everything is running smoothly under the hood and if it gives out, you could face a whole host of other issues. Additionally, did you know that if it breaks while the car is in motion, it can damage other parts of your engine? Visit Toyota of Clermont for this car care appointment today. Question #5: Will using premium gasoline improve my fuel efficiency? Nope. This is a common myth. Using premium gasoline won't improve any aspect of your car's performance. In fact, you only need it if your car specifically calls for it. Save yourself some money at the pump! Schedule your car's service at Toyota of Clermont Have more car care questions? Think it's time to schedule service for your ride? Call Toyota of Clermont today at (352) 404-7001.

If you live near Orlando or in the Clermont area, you’ve likely noticed the rise of local craft breweries! In fact, there’s now an ale trail dedicated to experiencing all the different local spot for great craft beer. There are more than enough to try to make for a great weekend experiencing local craft beer and the people who make it. To help streamline your experience, Toyota of Clermont has compiled a list of the top 5 best ones to visit. While this is a fun weekend activity, please remember to never drink and drive and always have a designated driver to help you get home safely! Have you tried these Local Craft Breweries? 1) Orlando Brewing When it comes to beer, Orlando Brewing knows how to make it good! This local craft brewery has been around since 2006 and is home to a variety of organic hand-crafted beers that are packed with flavor for every palette. They offer free educational tours to help guests learn about what goes into their beer along with various taproom events like live music and pet adoptions. It’s located right in south downtown Orlando, only a short drive from Clermont, and will rock your world! 2) Ocean Sun Brewing Listed at number 1 on Yelp, Ocean Sun Brewing is located on Curry Ford Road (in what’s now known as the Hourglass District) and is the best destination for good times, awesome people, and even better beer. With a constantly rotating tap and a huge variety of traditionally styled beers, there’s something for everyone, including your four-legged friends and kids! The open, pet, and kid friendly atmosphere is perfectly accented with board games, TV, darts, and cornhole! Make sure to ask for a tour of the brewery if you want to know more about how your beer made it to your glass and stick around for all the events always going on! 3) Ten10 Brewing Co The Mills district near Clermont is an iconic neighborhood with a lot of flavor and personality. Ten10 Brewing Co is an absolute local craft brewery essential you have to try! They have a great selection of in-house brewed beers (each with unique and, frankly, awesome names) along with several delicious food offerings. Make sure to take a growler home for a little slice of beer heaven right in your home. 4) Ellipsis Brewing With an impressive sixteen beers on tap, you’ll be hard pressed to find a local craft beer you don’t like at Ellipsis! Located right off Lee Vista Boulevard, near Orlando, this brewery sports a spacious and naturally lit atmosphere that you can’t find everywhere. This local craft brewery and taproom features a 7,500 square foot brewery and friendly staff. 5) Dead Lizard Brewing Company While the name is a little unorthodox, it’s as unique as beer and atmosphere of this local craft brewery and you can’t find that anywhere. Dead Lizard Brewing is located right near our sister dealership, Toyota of Orlando, and features twelve beers of tap. This local craft brewery near Clermont has wicked cool style and bold flavor. Wherever you venture this weekend, be safe, be careful, and have fun!