The 2012 Toyota Camry Hybrid debuted at your Northbrook Toyota dealership with a few subtle changes that manage to make it even more irresistible than its predecessor. Slight design tweaks for the exterior, new styling and features inside and improved driving dynamics make the Camry Hybrid a top choice for Chicago residents looking to lighten their carbon footprint.

Exterior

Aside from the hybrid badges, the Camry Hybrid Chicago residents now have to choose from is barely distinguishable from the gas-powered model, which is a good thing. A new chrome grille and newly designed headlights are the most significant changes this year’s Camry Hybrid received. Other minor changes have resulted in a sleeker, more athletic appearance that won’t disappoint.

Interior

The inside of the 2012 Toyota Camry is where the most notable design changes occurred and include the use of more upscale materials throughout. Brushed aluminum accents, lavish stitching above the redesigned dash and a leather-wrapped steering wheel create a luxurious appeal not expected in a car priced similarly to the Camry Hybrid. An upgraded audio system comes standard at your Northbrook Toyota dealer and can be added to Toyota’s new Entune multimedia system.

Improved Driving Dynamics

Thanks to the more extensive use of high-strength steel, the Camry Hybrid Chicago drivers have to choose from is now quicker and more fuel efficient thanks to its lighter weight. The results of reducing the Camry Hybrid’s weight so significantly enable it to go from 0 mph to 60 mph in a swift 7.4 seconds and allow it to achieve a combined EPA estimated fuel economy of 41 mpg. A revised suspension makes for a smooth ride and enhanced electric steering allows for a more responsive drive.

Vincentric, a firm providing data to the automotive industry, recently released the results of its eighth annual Best Value in America awards. Toyota took top honors after being named best overall brand for passenger cars and earning 13 Best Value awards. With its Best Passenger Car Brand award and 13 Best Value awards, Toyota walked away with the most awards out of any other automaker considered.

Vincentric’s Best Value award winners are chosen based off a number of various cost factors, including taxes and fees, depreciation, fuel consumption and financing. Of Toyota’s 13 Best Value Awards, four won in the Hybrid segment. Other notable award winners took top honors in the SUV, minivan and pickup truck segments.

SUV

The Toyota 4Runner claimed a Best Value award in the midsize SUV segment. This marks the fourth consecutive year the 4Runner has earned Vincentric’s praise, and it’s easy to see why. The 4Runner boasts best-in-class fuel economy and significantly lower ownership costs than other vehicles in the midsize SUV segment. Paired with a super low depreciation rate, this makes the 4Runner an obvious choice for the midsize SUV Best Value Award.

Minivan

The Sienna won its third Best Value award in the minivan segment, despite fierce competition. The low initial cost of the Sienna got its foot in the door, but its low depreciation and low insurance costs sealed the deal. Lower-than-average repair costs also contributed to the Sienna’s Best Value award.

Pickup Truck

The Toyota Tacoma won Vincentric’s Best Value award in the Compact Pickup segment. This is the eighth year the Tacoma has won the Best Value award, meaning it is the only vehicle to win this segment’s award since Vincentric began the Best Value in America awards. The Tacoma’s best-in-class fuel economy, segment-leading depreciation rates and lower-than-average maintenance costs have been attributed to the Tacoma’s high-value status.

Those of us who went to the Chicago Auto Show earlier this year got to see the latest and the greatest from Toyota, including the 3^rd generation Prius. Toyota has sold over one million Prius models in the U.S. since its debut in 2000 making it the best-selling hybrid in America. With the number of automakers now manufacturing hybrids, it makes you wonder why the Prius the one hybrid vehicle Chicago residents continue to flock to despite such a competitive market.

So what does the Toyota Prius have that other hybrid vehicles don’t? Everything you’d want in a hybrid vehicle without any of the drawbacks. Of the many advantages the Prius has over other hybrids, these three can be attributed to the success of America’s favorite hybrid.

Fuel Economy

One of the best advantages the Prius has over the competition is fuel economy. Sure most hybrids achieve decent gas mileage, but none of them deliver fuel efficiency like the Prius. With fuel economy ratings of 53 mpg in the city and 46 mpg on the highway, the Prius is the most fuel efficient hybrid on the market. Particularly for Chicago residents who are enduring the nation’s highest gas prices, the Prius is an eco-friendly step in the right direction.

Performance

The performance of the Toyota Prius is another one of its strong points and distinguishes it from the competition. The Prius is powered by a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine that works with an electric motor to deliver more than adequate power to keep up with fast-moving traffic. Sharp handling and a rigid body allow drivers to enjoy a smooth, confident ride at high speeds and when taking tight turns.

Space

Many automakers have found that cutting fuel economy means cutting space, but Toyota isn’t one of these automakers. The Prius is a frontrunner when it comes to passenger space, cargo capacity and versatility. Ample of head and legroom for five passengers makes the Prius a rare exception to the hybrid car segment. Whether Northbrook drivers opt for the base model’s fabric seats or upgrade to leather upholstery, plenty of cushioning and supportive designs make for a comfortable, sturdy ride.

Though the RAV4 was expected to debut for the 2012 model year fully redesigned, it arrived at your Northbrook Toyota dealer largely untouched from its predecessor. The versatility, number of trim levels and long list of options of previous RAV4 models have attracted a broad market of consumers and have made it a favorite among Chicago residents. With these qualities still in tact for 2012, the RAV4 is sure to remain a favorite among consumers.

Base

The Base RAV4 is ideal for those looking simply for an everyday use vehicle. It’s powerful yet fuel efficient, spacious yet lively and notably affordable considering its standard features. A 2.5-liter four cylinder engine delivers 179 horsepower but still manages to achieve fuel economy ratings of 22 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway. Standard features on the Base model include Bluetooth, iPod connectivity, full power accessories and a tilt and telescoping steering wheel.

Sport

A sport-tuned suspension and a few styling tweaks distinguish the Sport trim from the Base. 18-inch alloy wheels, color-keyed bumpers and privacy glass are some of the standard features that create a sporty, stylish appearance. Chicago new RAV4 drivers can also opt for the Appearance Package which adds stainless steel exhaust tips, heated outside mirrors with turn-signal indicators and chrome accents.

Limited

The Limited RAV4 introduces a slew of amenities and accessories that come standard at your Northbrook Toyota dealership. Keyless entry/ignition, a roof rack and a leather-wrapped steering wheel are among the features that come standard with the Limited trim. The Limited RAV4 is offered with the Premium Plus Value Package which adds leather upholstery, a power sunroof and heated front seats.

Particularly for residents of Chicago who are enduring the highest gas prices in the nation, opting for a greener car is becoming more and more appealing by the day. Luckily, there is no shortage of hybrid cars Chicago residents have to choose from, but which ones are the safest? Industry experts, consumers and simple research will likely guide you to the same automaker: Toyota.

In addition to being the industry leader when it comes to hybrid vehicles, Toyota also sets the bar when it comes to safety. Of the many eco-friendly vehicles Chicago consumers have to choose from, the following Toyota models rank among the safest in the hybrid car segment.

Toyota Camry Hybrid

In addition to its excellent fuel economy ratings of 43 mpg in the city and 39 mpg on the highway, the Toyota Camry Hybrid comes standard with a long list of safety features. Standard safety features include antilock brakes with brake assist, traction control, electronic brake-force distribution and a tire pressure monitoring system. The Camry Hybrid also comes with 10 airbags which is significantly more than other vehicles in its class. These features plus a number of others earned the Camry Hybrid top safety scores in both government and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety testing.

Toyota Highlander Hybrid

In many cases, bigger vehicles are safer than smaller cars, and the Toyota Highlander Hybrid is no exception. What makes the Highlander stand out from other vehicles are various safety features, such as a driver’s knee airbag, that not often found in other vehicles in its class. Other safety features include traction control, hill assist and Toyota’s Smart Stop throttle override technology.

Toyota Prius V

Toyota has remained an industry leader when it comes to hybrid technology and the Prius V is the latest and greatest version of America’s favorite hybrid. In addition to a slew of standard safety equipment including stability control, antilock disc brakes and traction control, the Prius V is offered with a long list of optional equipment as well. Optional equipment Northbrook residents can choose from includes Toyota’s Safety Connect system, a pre-collision safety system and an automated parallel-parking system.

For months now we’ve been hearing about escalating gas prices and the potential of costs skyrocketing to as much as $5.00/gallon by this Memorial Day. $5.00/gallon for gas is a scary thought, even scarier, us Chicago residents are currently paying more at the pump than any other drivers nationwide. Whether it be upping your frequency on the el or forking over the cash at the gas station, we all know what the rising gas prices mean for us, and it’s not exactly ideal. But what do these increases mean for automakers like Toyota?

For Toyota, an industry leader in sustainable mobility, increasing gas prices might mean big sales. The Toyota Prius, the world’s first mass-produced hybrid gas-electric vehicle, is practically synonymous with eco-friendly technology and is the best-selling hybrid in America. Since its debut at your Chicago used Toyota dealer just three years ago, there have been over 1 million units sold in the U.S. alone. So how much will increasing gas prices have on the Prius? Just last month, Prius sales were up 54% compared to the same time last year which made last month the best-selling record for Toyota’s fuel frugal darling.

The Prius isn’t the only eco-friendly model that will likely improve Toyota sales due to soaring gas prices. The Camry Hybrid, a gasoline-electric version of the best-selling sedan on the market, is also an option for those looking to save money at the pumps. The Camry Hybrid delivers a performance similar to the conventional Camry but achieves fuel economy ratings of 43 mpg in the city and 39 mpg on the highway.

Other Toyota Models like will likely experience in increase in sales due to increased gas prices include the Highlander Hybrid and other variations of the traditional Prius including the all new Prius V. There are a good handful of non-hybrid Toyota models that are also likely to experience sales increases thanks to their hybrid-like gas mileage. The Toyota Yaris, RAV4 and Avalon are additional Toyota models that are sure to help Northbrook residents at the gas pumps.

When it comes to buying a family car, most consumers are looking for a model with a wide range of responsibilities. Whether dropping the kids off at school or taking the family on a road trip, family vehicles need to be safe, spacious, efficient and everything in between. To help Northbrook residents looking for a family hauler, TotalCarScore.com compiled a list of the top 10 family vehicles. Toyota dominated the list with these three models being recognized as the best of the best when it comes to family cars.

Toyota Camry Hybrid

The Toyota Camry Hybrid landed the #1 spot on TotalCarScore.com’s list thanks to its performance and efficiency. For the 2012 model year, the Camry Hybrid got a revised Synergy Drive system which enhanced performance and power and increased fuel efficiency by 30%. Hauling the kids all around town won’t cost you an arm and leg at the gas pumps with the Camry Hybrid’s improved technology which results in fuel economy ratings of 43 mpg in the city and 39 mpg on the highway.

Toyota Sienna

The Sienna landed on the best family cars list thanks to three qualities: space, safety and performance. Northbrook residents have the flexibility of a 7-passenger or 8-passenger Sienna, both of which offer ample space for passengers and their luggage. The Sienna scored well in government crash tests and was named a Top Safety Pick in insurance tests. Of particular interest to Chicago residents who have to endure harsh winters and icy roads, the Sienna is the only minivan on the market to offer all-wheel drive. The V6 engine that is offered with the Sienna delivers a surge of power not typically found in minivans which is another contributor to its status as one of the best family vehicles on the market.

Toyota Prius

One of the more obvious benefits of the Prius for the family driver is its class-leading fuel economy. Driving the kids around all day won’t empty your wallet with a combined fuel economy rating of 42 mpg. More than efficiency, the 2012 model year brings some changes to the Prius that make it even more appealing for the family driver. Chicago 2012 Prius dealers now offer the Prius V, an all new wagon-based model of the traditional Prius. The Prius V offers the same exceptional fuel economy of the standard hybrid but in a more spacious body.

Toyota’s RAV4 is a compact crossover that has been a favorite among Chicago residents since it first debuted in 1996. Toyota’s ability to combine the assets of an SUV and sedan without any of the drawbacks allow Chicago 2012 RAV4 drivers to enjoy the best of both worlds. Of everything the RAV4 has to offer, these qualities sit at the top of the car’s long list of accolades.

Interior Space

For those that think that ample passenger and cargo space means having to sacrifice drivability and gas mileage, the RAV4 will prove you wrong. The RAV4 seats seven passengers, has a maximum cargo capacity of 73 cubic feet and still manages to deliver the drive performance and fuel efficiency of a sedan.

Standard Safety Features

Safety is probably one of the few qualities every car buyer can agree on. Chicago 2012 RAV4 drivers can be assured of their safety with the RAV4’s long list of standard safety features which includes electronic brake-force distribution, smart stop technology, anti-lock brakes and traction control.

Class-Leading Fuel Economy

The RAV4 boasts some of the best fuel economy ratings of any car in its class. The base model offered at your Northbrook Toyota dealer comes with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that delivers more than adequate power without compromising gas mileage. Rated at 22 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway, the RAV4 is an ideal choice for Chicago residents and other city dwellers looking to save money at the pumps.

Versatility

Whether Northbrook residents are looking for a family hauler, car to commute to and from work with or just an everyday vehicle, chances are there’s a RAV4 to fit your needs. Three trim levels and a number of options packages cater to any driver no matter what their needs may be.

Drive Performance

The RAV4 delivers a well-rounded drive performance sure to please the adventurous driver as much as the family driver. The car’s taut suspension makes for a more than capable off-road experience while its responsive electric-assist steering make for pleasant everyday driving.

Lightening your carbon footprint with the car you drive doesn’t always mean opting for a hybrid. Many gasoline powered cars deliver fuel economy similar to or better than some hybrids. For Chicago drivers looking to endure escalating gas prices with something other than a hybrid, these are the cars to check out.

Toyota Yaris

The Toyota Yaris comes standard at your Northbrook Toyota dealership with a 1.5-liter four cylinder engine paired with a five-speed manual transmission. At 106 horsepower, the Yaris delivers ample power but still manages to achieve hybrid-like gas mileage. With fuel economy ratings of 29 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway, the Yaris will help Northbrook residents save money at the pumps.

Toyota Corolla

For those dreading the thought of gas prices reaching $5.00/gallon in Chicago, 2012 Toyota Corolla dealers have the car for you. The newest Corolla debuted this year boasting fuel economy numbers of 27 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway. Despite achieving stellar gas mileage, the Corolla still delivers a powerful performance and plenty of interior space.

Toyota RAV4

In addition to proving that non-hybrid drivers can achieve hybrid-like gas mileage, the Toyota RAV4 also proves that you don’t have to get a compact sedan to achieve good fuel efficiency. The compact SUV comes standard at your Northbrook Toyota dealership with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine good for 179 horsepower. Despite its strong power, the fuel efficiency of the RAV4 is uncompromised. Rated at 22 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway, the RAV4 is one of the most fuel efficient vehicles of its size.

For Chicago residents looking to lighten their carbon footprint, opting for the Toyota Camry Hybrid is always a good idea. But with these three points in mind, now might be the best time to opt to go green with the Camry Hybrid.

Better Fuel Economy

Particularly for Chicago residents and other city dwellers, the gas mileage of their vehicles can have a substantial impact on their bank accounts. While the fuel economy of last year’s Camry Hybrid was impressive, to say the least, 2012’s model gets even better gas mileage. Thanks to an upgraded regenerative braking system, now Chicago 2012 Toyota Camry Hybrid drivers will achieve a 10 mpg gain in city driving than 2011 Camry Hybrid drivers. The improved braking system results in an EPA-estimated 41 mpg combined fuel economy rating making 2012 the best year yet for the Camry Hybrid.

Soaring Gas Prices

Gas analysts are predicting fuel prices to hit an all-time high come the summer time and unfortunately for us Chicago residents, we’re going to see the worst of it. So what exactly does the forecast of the worst year for gas prices entail? It could be as much as $5.00/gallon making now the best time to opt for a car as fuel efficient as the 2012 Toyota Camry.

More Power

Despite the improvement in fuel economy, this year’s Camry Hybrid achieves more power than last year’s model. The car comes standard at your Northbrook Toyota Camry dealer with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine. Paired with the power delivered from the car’s electric motor, the Camry Hybrid delivers class-leading power rated at 200 horsepower.