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The Toyota 4Runner has been one of the most popular SUVs on the market for decades, and the 2023 model year promises to continue that tradition. While there aren't any significant changes to the 4Runner for 2023, some notable updates and improvements should make it an even better choice if you're looking for a capable and reliable SUV. Read below as our team at Longo Toyota in El Monte, California, explores some of these upgrades to help you decide if the new model is right for you. The 2023 Toyota 4Runner: Exterior 2023 Toyota 4Runner The 2023 Toyota 4Runner retains the rugged and boxy design that has become the model's trademark, but there are a few tweaks to the exterior that help freshen up the look. Toyota has updated the front fascia with a new grille design featuring a mesh pattern instead of the previous horizontal bars. It has also redesigned the headlights with a slimmer profile and new LED lighting elements. The result is a front end that looks more modern and aggressive. Another update to the exterior is the addition of a new color option. Lunar Rock is a new shade that replaces the outgoing Army Green, and it's a welcome addition to the lineup. This grayish-green hue perfectly complements the 4Runner's rugged style and should be a popular choice among buyers. Finally, the 2023 4Runner comes with a new set of 18-inch wheels that feature a black finish and a unique design. These wheels give the SUV a more premium look, and they're a nice touch if you want a vehicle with a little extra style. The 2023 Toyota 4Runner: Performance Under the hood, the model's same tried-and-true 4.0-liter V-6 engine powers the 2023 Toyota 4Runner. It produces 270 hp and 278 lb-ft of torque, which is plenty for most driving situations. The engine pairs with a five-speed automatic transmission, which delivers strong acceleration and a smooth driving experience. One area where the 4Runner excels is off-road capability. It comes standard with four-wheel drive and has high ground clearance, making it a great choice if you like to venture off the beaten path on the trails near El Monte. The TRD Off-Road and TRD Pro trims take things further with additional off-road features, such as a locking rear differential, crawl control, and skid plates. As for fuel efficiency, expect the new 4Runner to get around 16 mpg in the city and 19 mpg on the highway. The 2023 Toyota 4Runner: Interior Inside, the 2023 Toyota 4Runner sees a few updates as well. The most notable change is the addition of a new infotainment system. The previous system was a bit outdated, so the new one is a welcome improvement. It features a larger touch-screen display (up from 8 inches to 9 inches) and supports both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The interface is also much more user-friendly, with more intuitive menus and better response times. Another update to the interior is the addition of a standard Wi-Fi hotspot. It's a great feature for anyone who wants to stay connected on the go and handy if you've got kids who need to stay entertained on long road trips. One thing that hasn't changed is the 4Runner's spacious and comfortable cabin. There's plenty of room for five passengers, and the cargo area is one of the largest in its class. The rear seats fold flat to create even more space, and plenty of clever storage solutions are throughout the cabin. And if you select one of the two-row 4Runner models, there's an optional pull-out cargo deck, making loading heavy items much more manageable. The 2023 Toyota 4Runner: Safety Safety features are essential when choosing a vehicle like the 4Runner that can take on challenging terrain. Luckily, the 2023 Toyota 4Runner has a wide range of safety features. These include adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking, and automatic high beams. There are also a few new safety features for 2023, including rear cross-traffic alerts and blind-spot monitoring, which come standard on all but the base SR5 trim. With all these features, you'll have peace of mind as you head out for your next adventure. The 2023 Toyota 4Runner: Trims and MSRPs Finally, the 2023 Toyota 4Runner comes in several different trim options, which makes it easier to select a version with your desired features at your preferred price. The available trims, with their respective MSRPs, are as follows: The 2023 Toyota 4Runner SR5: $39,555. The 2023 Toyota 4Runner TRD Sport: $42,415. The 2023 Toyota 4Runner SR5 Premium: $42,615. The 2023 Toyota 4Runner TRD Off-Road: $43,400. The 2023 Toyota 4Runner Off-Road Premium: $45,980. The 2023 Toyota 4Runner 40th Anniversary Special Edition: $47,120. The 2023 Toyota 4Runner Limited: $48,790. The 2023 Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro: $54,020. If you're looking for a great combination of off-road abilities and price, we highly recommend the TRD Off-Road trim level. It doesn't necessarily have the same power or performance as the higher-level trims, but it's still competent and more affordable. Explore the 2023 Toyota 4Runner at Longo Toyota If you want a capable off-road vehicle that still delivers plenty of comfort and reliability for daily use, it's hard to go wrong with the 2023 Toyota 4Runner. With its spacious interior, powerful performance, and advanced technology, you'll surely love all it offers. To learn more about the 2023 4Runner, or to take it out for a test drive, please contact Longo Toyota in El Monte, California. Here at Longo Toyota, we're dedicated to helping our customers find the best vehicle for their needs. We'd be happy to answer any questions you may have about the 4Runner or show you one of our other new vehicles that may better fit your needs. We also offer several online tools to make your shopping experience easier, such as the ability to get pre-approved for financing or check your vehicle's value with our trade-in evaluation tool. Finally, be sure to check out our latest specials for more ways to save on your next vehicle.

Tire maintenance is a vital part of car ownership because your tires are the only contact that your vehicle has with the road. Did you know that driving around in your Toyota with low tire pressure could potentially put your safety in jeopardy? You'll be at an increased risk of experiencing a tire blowout, and if it just so happens to occur while you're driving down the highway, you could lose control of your car and get into an accident. Fortunately, you should be able to avoid this scenario thanks to your Toyota's Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS). This system is specifically designed to let you know when you don't have enough air in your tires so that you can fill them up as soon as possible. It's important to know how this system works so that have a better understanding of how it'll help you when you're behind the wheel of your Toyota. The team at Longo Toyota of El Monte, California, has put together this guide to help you understand the features of your Toyota's TPMS. Read on to find out how the Toyota TPMS is designed to keep you safe Monitors the Tire Pressure in Each of Your Toyota's Tires Toyota by Peter Riley is licensed with CC BY-ND 2.0 From pretty much the moment that you start up your Toyota, your vehicle's TPMS is up and running. It monitors all four of the tires on your Toyota and checks to see how much air is in each of them. The system has a series of sensors that keeps tabs on things such as the temperature of the air in your tires to determine whether or not they need to be filled with more air. Without the TPMS, you wouldn't know if your tires were ever running low on air. This could result in you driving around in a car, truck, or SUV that isn't getting the kind of gas mileage that it should. It could also result in you damaging your car's tires and possibly even getting into an accident because of them. Alerts You If Your Toyota's Tires Are Low on Air Most of the time, your Toyota's Tire Pressure Monitoring System is going to be running in the background and won't have to alert you about anything. But if your Toyota's tires are running low on air, the system will advise you as to what's going on. How will it do this? Well, there's a TPMS warning light, which is also commonly referred to as a TPMS warning light. It'll light up on your dashboard if your TPMS ever senses that you need air in one or more of your vehicle's tires. You might not necessarily need to pull over at the exact moment that you see your TPMS warning light turn on. But you should make checking your tire pressure and adding air to your tires a top priority. You don't want to get stuck riding around in a Toyota that has low tire pressure for too long as it can put you and your passengers at risk. Allows You To Add Air to Your Toyota's Tires Once you see your TPMS warning light turn on, it'll stay on until you do something about it. That should serve as a constant reminder that you need to add air to your tires. There's always a chance that the temperature outside could increase and cause your tire pressure to rise on its own, but when your car gets to the point that the TPMS warning light turns on, it's often a clear indication that one of your tires is dangerously low on air. What To Do If Your Toyota's TPMS Warning Light Doesn't Turn Off After you add air to your Toyota's tires, the light should turn back off for you. At least, that's what it's supposed to do. There are, however, some instances in which your Toyota's TPMS warning light might turn on and then not turn back off. This sometimes happens to Toyota owners after they have a tire rotation done or replace the tires on their cars. If this ever happens to you, you'll need to manually reset the TPMS warning light yourself. You can do this by: Starting your Toyota and letting the engine run Pressing and holding down the Reset button that's usually positioned on the instrumental panel that's on the right of the steering wheel in most Toyotas Releasing the Reset button after the TPMS warning light blinks three times Allowing your Toyota to run for a few more minutes before turning it off and completing the Reset process Starting your Toyota again and checking to see if all this led to the TPMS warning light turning off As long as you take each of these steps, you should be able to turn your TPMS warning light off and keep it off. But if you see that the light is still on, it could be a sign of more serious trouble. In this case, you'll need to arrange to take your Toyota down to a local service center so that they can try and establish the cause of the problem. A factory-trained technician will be able to figure it out in no time for you. Reach Out to Us To Schedule Service for Your Toyota Are you experiencing trouble with your Toyota? Whether the TPMS warning light won't go off or you suspect there might be something else going on, Longo Toyota or El Monte, California, can help you out. We can inspect your TPMS and other aspects of your car to find out what the problem is. If you'd like to make an appointment for your Toyota at our service center, contact us today so that we can get you on the schedule and get an explanation as to why your TPMS isn't working. We also have a wide variety of new and used vehicles for sale for when you're ready to move on to your next ride.

Although many automotive manufacturers now focus on developing SUVs and crossovers, the classic sedan is still popular with drivers. Its unique blend of comfort, storage space, and driving pleasure is still inspiring new generations of auto enthusiasts, and that's not likely to change any time soon. Toyota understands this and plans to constantly improve the models that made it a household name, including the Camry. Is a New Generation Coming Soon? 2023 Toyota Camry Although there's no official timeframe for the release of the next Toyota Camry generation, experts say it's likely to happen sometime in 2024 or 2025 at the latest. While Toyota is currently keeping all information about the next Camry private, the huge interest behind the model has led many automotive publications and enthusiasts to speculate on how it might look. The best lead we have so far is the 2023 Toyota Prius, the first model showcasing Toyota's next-generation design. Now in its fifth generation, the new Prius is still one of the best eco-friendly cars on the market but has taken a step away from its neutral-looking design. Its new interior and efficient powertrains are big steps forward, but the most striking difference is its new exterior. Built on  Toyota's TNGA-C platform, which enthusiasts hope to see in the next Camry, the Prius is sleeker and sportier than ever. Next Heir To The Crown Another place we can look to for inspiration regarding the next Toyota Camry generation is the 2023 Toyota Crown. This large sedan is brand new to the American market, and its design manages to be both sporty and elegant. Some of the elements we may see on the next Camry are the simple design lines, curved headlights, large lower front bumper, and spectacular-looking full-width rear LED light bar. Overall, it's likely that the future Camry model will be a smaller version of the Crown, which would be ideal for many car buyers. The Current Version Is Far From Outdated While we probably have to wait one or two more years for the newly designed Camry, the current design is still very much in fashion. Each of its six available trims brings new style and design elements, with even the base version being a testament to Toyota's dedication to quality exterior design. Some of the most exciting-looking exterior features for each trim are: LE Although this is the current Camry generation's standard version, you wouldn't know it by looking at it. Its dark gray front grille immediately catches the eye, while the Bi-LED headlights and LED daytime running lights with an automatic on/off feature are both stylish and practical. Although it comes with standard 16-inch steel wheels, buyers can choose to upgrade to 18-inch dark gray or black machined-finish alloy wheels or even 19-inch matte bronze, matte black, or gloss black styles. SE The next trim adds some elements that were only available as options for the base version, such as the 18-inch wheels, which come as standard. This is the ideal trim for those who want a completely unique Camry, as it introduces the special Nightshade version with unique styling elements. An all-black exterior trim enhances the Camry's elegance and gives it a more aggressive look. The added spoiler on the trunk also boosts its sportiness, while the 19-inch bronze-painted wheels are a surprise element that makes the whole car stand out. XLE The Camry's XLE trim is largely aimed at buyers who want a sedan that's more elegant than sporty. The dark gray front grille with chrome accents sets the tone for the entire design, which also includes elements like side mirrors and door handles that match the car's color, a chrome-tip exhaust, and a subtle shark-fin radio antenna. XSE This trim brings together all the exciting design elements from previous styles while adding a few of its own. Its 19-inch wheels and gloss-black grille give it a sporty vibe, with the dual-exhaust system being both aesthetically pleasing and more suited to the four-cylinder, 206-horsepower engine. It also features an aggressive rear spoiler that can either be black or in the same color as the rest of the vehicle. TRD As you would expect, the top trim is also the most spectacular looking. Its gloss-black front grille with a sport mesh lower grill insert is sure to attract attention, while the black window trim and black side mirrors do a great job of making it look more powerful. It's also easy to distinguish from other trims thanks to its matte-black center cap featuring a large red TRD logo and the TRD gloss-black pedestal rear spoiler. Other unique styling elements are the TRD cat-black dual-exhaust system with polished stainless steel tips, side aero skirts, TRD gloss-black front splitter, and rear diffuser with red pin-striping. A History of Spectacular Designs Besides looking at other Toyota models and the current Camry to guess what the future generation will look like, it may also be worth studying the Camry's excellent design track record. The first model was launched internationally in 1982 as a replacement for the Corona and set design standards for many other car brands in the 1980s. It was Toyota's first compact car, making its release a pivotal moment in the Japanese carmaker's history. Its second generation was a little longer and wider, also featuring a larger trunk. It also offered a wagon version in addition to the sedan. The Camry's success meant that Toyota started building them in the U.S. from 1988 onwards. This led to an upswing in its popularity, and the following years and decades made way for constant style improvements. These included new models and alternative shapes, such as the coupe and convertible. The current Camry is in its eighth generation, first introduced in 2018. With the current Camry model still going strong, deciding between buying it and waiting for the new version is a tough decision. Visit us at Longo Toyota in the El Monte area to test the former and see if it fits your desires.

Whether you're visiting Los Angeles for the first time or you've lived here your whole life, there's much to do and explore in this great city. When you're here in the spring or summer, you can take advantage of the warm weather to visit a beach, take a hike, or watch a ballgame. Here are some of the top attractions to visit in Los Angeles. Santa Monica Pier Image by Matthew LeJune is licensed with Unsplash License A trip to the Santa Monica Pier is an experience in itself. The iconic boardwalk includes amusement park rides, arcade games, street performers, and tasty treat carts. Ride the Pacific Park Ferris wheel for stunning views of the Southern California coastline, or take a spin on the pier's historic merry-go-round. There's even a trapeze school on the pier if you want to try something new. Underneath the pier, you can visit the Heal the Bay Aquarium, home to over 100 species like moray eels, jellyfish, and swell sharks. You can also fish on the pier, with a bait and tackle shop available. While the pier can be busy, it's also fun to walk along the boardwalk and simply enjoy the ocean air and warm breeze. Treat yourself to a hot dog, cotton candy, or milkshake while you people-watch in this fun, bustling environment. Location: 200 Santa Monica Pier, Santa Monica Hours: 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily Getty Villa Museum Take a trip to ancient Rome when you visit the Getty Villa Museum, part of the Getty. The museum building recreates the appearance of a Roman country home, complete with peaceful gardens and a 450-seat outdoor theater. The art on display in the museum spans the Neolithic and Bronze Ages in ancient Greece to the height of the Roman Empire. Two floors of galleries include sculptures, jewelry, portraits, and even a Roman-era mummy. Outside the museum, you can explore four gardens on the grounds. Plants and herbs in the gardens are the same ones grown in the ancient Mediterranean. Open-air spaces, tranquil fountains, and a reflecting pool offer quiet places for contemplation and reflection. Plus, you'll enjoy sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean. Location: 17985 Pacific Coast Highway, Pacific Palisades Hours: 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Wednesday through Monday. Closed on Tuesday Griffith Observatory For the best views of Los Angeles, don't miss a chance to visit Griffith Observatory. The free observatory offers exhibits, shows, and telescopes for you to explore the cosmos. Walk through the Ahmanson Hall of the Sky to learn more about the relationship between the sun, moon, and Earth, or explore a scale model of the solar system outside the observatory. Each day, the observatory hosts various programs, like a Tesla coil demonstration and a planetarium show. If possible, it's worth visiting the Griffith Observatory at sunset for stunning views of the glittering Los Angeles landscape. You can use the free public telescopes to gaze up at the stars. Before the sun sets, the observatory is also the perfect place for a view of the iconic Hollywood Sign. Location: 2800 E. Observatory Road, Los Angeles Hours: Noon to 10 p.m. Tuesday through Friday and 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Closed on Monday Hollywood Sign Speaking of the Hollywood Sign, it's a must-do attraction in Los Angeles, whether it's your first time visiting or you're a native Angeleno. The sign, originally erected in 1923, has come to symbolize the city's status as the entertainment capital of the world. Located in Griffith Park, the Hollywood Sign is visible from 10 to 15 miles away, but it's worth getting an up-close look at this iconic landmark. There are three hiking trails you can take to get to the sign, ranging in length from 3 to 6 miles. Two of the three trails are rated as easy, while the third one is best for more experienced hikers. Make sure you bring plenty of water for your hike, especially in the summer months. Once you summit, you'll be directly above the sign, enjoying a bird's-eye view of the city below. Location: Griffith Park on Mount Lee Hours: Hiking trails open from sunrise to sunset daily Venice Beach You won't be bored with a trip to Venice Beach, one of the top destinations in Los Angeles. You can relax on the sandy beach or go fishing along the pier. Stroll along the 2-mile boardwalk to grab some food or watch the street performers. Visit the Venice Beach Recreation Center to play a pickup basketball game or check out the Muscle Beach Venice gym, where professional bodybuilder and former Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger used to frequent. Venice Beach also has a world-famous waterfront skate plaza, biking paths, and play areas. If you need a break from the crowds, you can check out the Venice Canals. The city's founder, Abbot Kinney, designed the canals to represent those in Venice, Italy. You can take a leisurely walk or pose for the perfect photo-op on one of the bridges. Location: 1800 Ocean Front Walk, Venice Hours: Open daily from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. October through April and 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. May through September Dodger Stadium What's a better spring or summer pastime than catching a ballgame at Dodger Stadium? Home to the Los Angeles Dodgers, the stadium has a celebrated history as the third-oldest ballpark in Major League Baseball. Murals adorn the sides of the stadium to honor its 60th anniversary and the great Jackie Robinson. When you're not watching the game, you can also wander through memorabilia exhibits, including the Legends of Dodger Baseball display. On game days, you can take a tour before the first pitch and watch the Dodgers' batting practice. Even if you can't catch a game, you can still visit the stadium on a 90-minute tour. The tour allows you to go onto the field, visit the Centerfield Plaza, view the 2020 World Series trophy and other team awards, and sit in the Vin Scully Press Box for a full-stadium view. Location: 1000 Vin Scully Ave., Los Angeles Hours: Check the website for team schedule and tour times Now you know more about six of the top attractions to visit in Los Angeles in the spring and summer. What's on your must-do list in LA? Did we miss one of your favorite attractions? Contact us and let us know so we can add it to our list. Like the Hollywood Sign and Dodger Stadium, Longo Toyota has a long history in the Los Angeles area, and we're proud to share our local knowledge with others.

When you think about hybrid vehicles, which kind of vehicle pops into your head first? There's a good chance the Toyota Prius just came to mind — and for good reason. The Toyota Prius has been the best-selling hybrid vehicle in the U.S. since being unveiled in the early 2000s. Toyota clearly hit a home run out of the park with the Prius. But despite this, Toyota has been slow to come around to creating electric vehicles (EVs). The automaker did announce a $30 billion EV plan back in late 2021, but the company also just revealed they're already going to be giving that plan a "reboot" of sorts and possibly moving in a different direction. So, what are Toyota's plans for EVs now? Find out below so that you can see what Toyota has in store as far as EVs are concerned. Toyota Is Relaunching Its First Electric SUV Close-up of an electric car charging station with a car plugged in by Ivan Radic is licensed with CC BY 2.0 Toyota launched its very first electric SUV, the 2023 Toyota bZ4X, in 2022. That alone should've been a cause for celebration for Toyota regarding EVs. But the bZ4X got off to a rocky start, as it was subjected to a recall and a stop-sale almost immediately due to faulty wheel hub bolts. And while it's back on the market now, Toyota estimates that only 10,000 bZ4Xs will be sold by the time everything is all said and done. This has been a little bit discouraging for Toyota. But with the early bZ4X issues behind it, Toyota seems to have learned a thing or two from the bZ4X's launch and will be prepared for the next iteration of it. It also appears that Toyota will proceed with the launch of the Lexus RZ 450e, which is a crossover EV that was designed and built by Toyota. Toyota Is Studying Its Existing EV Platforms When Toyota announced that the company would be making a big push to release more EVs in the future, they got a lot of people excited by unveiling 16 prototype EVs to the world. This included everything from an electric pickup mockup to a Compact Cruiser EV mockup. But it sounds like many of these prototypes might never see the light of day. Toyota has decided to put the development of about 30 EVs on hold for the time being while it looks into its existing EV platforms further. The company is expected to get a report back on these EV platforms sometime this year, and it'll use that report to decide which EV platforms are worth pursuing and which need to be scrapped. This is a big part of the reason why so much uncertainty exists when it comes to Toyota's EV plan right now. Toyota Is Celebrating Its Hybrid Successes While Toyota's EV plan has apparently struggled to get off to the strong start that the company was hoping for, Toyota has been quick to point out that it continues to enjoy massive success within the hybrid space. Only 10,000 bZ4Xs have been sold thus far. But the company announced that it sold more than 500,000 hybrids and plug-in hybrids in 2022 alone. Because of this, it shouldn't come as a huge surprise to hear that Toyota isn't going to abandon its hybrids anytime soon. The Prius, in particular, continues to be a top seller for Toyota, which is why the automaker decided to completely redesign the 2023 Prius so that it could keep on capitalizing on it. Toyota Is Preparing To Unveil Its New Plan to Suppliers The good news for those anxiously anticipating the release of more Toyota EVs is that they shouldn't have to wait too long to see what the company has in store. Toyota is scheduled to hold a so-called supplier summit sometime soon, during which the company will talk to its suppliers about its reworked EV plan. This should provide suppliers and the rest of the world with some insight into where Toyota is going to take things next when it comes to EVs. The simple fact that Toyota is even holding this supplier summit should demonstrate that the automaker realizes it needs to get more aggressive with manufacturing EVs. It'll be interesting to see what the company's spokespeople have to say during this summit. It's going to paint a much clearer picture of what's to come for Toyota and its EV plan. Toyota Is at a Crossroads When It Comes to EVs For now, Toyota doesn't seem to have a surefire plan for which EVs it's going to release or when they're going to come out. But if nothing else, Toyota appears to be angling to get more EVs out on the road fast. Whether these EVs are the same ones they were working on a couple of years ago or not remains to be seen. But there should be some exciting news on the horizon for those interested in buying Toyota EVs. It's clear that Toyota isn't going to let its fellow automakers get a head start on EV production. Stay Tuned To See Which EVs Toyota Has in Store Toyota might not have too much to offer yet in terms of EVs. But you can get your hands on plenty of fuel-friendly vehicles, such as the aforementioned Toyota Prius or even the Toyota Mirai, which runs on hydrogen. You can also keep your eyes peeled for additional news about which EVs Toyota will have in stock soon. It shouldn't be long before Toyota has EVs listed alongside all the other new vehicles in its lineup. Would you like to keep tabs on which EVs Toyota has coming soon? Longo Toyota in El Monte, California, will keep you in the loop moving forward. We'll also help you secure a test drive if you're interested in any of the other Toyota models that are available now. Contact us to set up a test drive or to ask us any questions you might have about the latest Toyotas.

If you're looking to purchase a vehicle in California, one thing that could trip you up is the choice between leather and cloth seats. Most mainstream vehicles come standard with cloth upholstery and offer leather seats as an option, while luxury models are often fitted with leather upholstery on every trim. The type of seats you choose not only affects the look of your vehicle's interior, but it can also have an impact on your driving and car ownership experience. To make the right decision between leather and cloth upholstery, let's take a look at how they compare in the following departments: Cost 2023 Toyota Camry Red Leather Interior An obvious disadvantage of leather upholstery is that it's more expensive than cloth. Most non-luxury cars, SUVs, and trucks that have leather seats get them as part of a package that includes other options as well. Choosing leather can potentially cost you thousands of dollars more, depending on its quality and the additional options that come with the specific trim level. In any case, the starting prices of vehicles with leather seats are typically higher than those of cars offering cloth seats. Maintenance and Cleaning Keeping your car clean can be a nightmare, especially if you have kids. If you prefer seats that are easier to clean, you are probably better off choosing leather. Leather seats aren't as porous as fabric ones, making it easier to wipe up spills and vacuum crumbs that accumulate on them. However, the opposite is true when it comes to maintenance. The interior materials of your vehicle will deteriorate over time, but it's possible to protect the surfaces of your cloth seats without compromising their aesthetic value by using seat covers. In contrast, putting covers over leather seats can make them less visually appealing. Additionally, you need to apply a special leather cleaner to these seats several times a year to keep them in peak condition. Climate When you're choosing between leather and cloth seats, you have to take your local weather conditions into consideration. A vehicle with a black leather interior may look nice and upscale, but it can be incredibly uncomfortable on hot summer days, as it can quickly gather heat when exposed to direct sunlight. Also, when it gets extremely hot, you have to be prepared to deal with leather burns. Cloth seats are cooler and won't burn your skin, making them a better choice for drivers who live in hot climates. The upholstery type doesn't make much of a difference in cold weather. Despite the fact that leather can make your seats feel chilly, many cars with leather seats also have seat warmers. Fabric seats also do a good job of keeping you warm in cold temperatures, and they can sometimes be equipped with heaters. Aesthetic Appeal Leather is generally acknowledged as being a more elegant material than cloth. While fabric upholstery can look as stylish and sporty as its leather counterpart, it's difficult to match the overall attractiveness of the hand-stitched leather of luxury cars. Genuine leather seats may lack certain design elements found on some cloth seats, such as fun designs, colors, and patterns, but most people who can afford real leather are fine with that. Furthermore, vehicles with cloth upholstery often have less appealing interior surfaces. Although this isn't always the case, cloth seats are mostly offered on lower trim levels that prioritize cost-saving measures, thus reducing aesthetic value in more areas of the cabin than just the seats. As impressive as leather is, it's important to note that a vehicle doesn't necessarily need it to be appealing. Resale Value If you intend to sell or trade in your car in the future, you should know that leather upholstery doesn't always ensure a higher resale value. A used vehicle with a well-maintained interior can fetch several thousand dollars more than a neglected one. This means the additional value you might get from your leather seats depends on whether their surfaces are in good condition. In most cases, if your car is fitted with leather seats, it’ll likely have other desirable features that may help increase the resale value more than the leather itself. Comfort Both leather and cloth seats can be equally comfortable. However, luxury vehicles are often associated with comfort, and they mostly have some kind of leather seating. As mentioned before, leather can lead to uncomfortable situations, as it can heat up quickly and further warm the interior, so you and your passengers may have to wait until the air conditioner cools everything down. Aside from the weather, it can be said that the comfort factor is somewhat similar to the resale situation. By itself, leather upholstery doesn't really affect the overall comfort of a vehicle. Are Leather or Cloth Seats the Right Choice for You? It can be difficult to say for sure whether leather or cloth is a better choice for you. Looking at the main factors — comfort, climate, cost, cleaning, and maintenance — cloth upholstery seems to have the upper hand in more areas. However, that doesn't mean leather should take a back seat to fabric, as many people think that the luxurious look, feel, and smell of real leather are worth the additional cost. On the other hand, some drivers may prefer cloth seats because they're allergic to leather or have children who may damage their expensive leather seats. Therefore, the choice between leather and cloth seats really depends on your personal needs and preferences. Carefully weighing the pros and cons of the two materials can help you make a more informed decision. If you're shopping for a vehicle in El Monte, California, come on down to Longo Toyota to explore our extensive selection of new and used vehicles. Serving El Monte, Pomona, Anaheim, Compton, Pasadena, Glendale, and Los Angeles, our dealership offers a wide array of cars, SUVs, minivans, and pickup trucks to cater to the budgets and lifestyles of drivers from all walks of life. Whether you prefer cloth or leather seats, you'll have no trouble finding a model on our lot that fits you perfectly. Browse our new cars for sale and used suvs for sale now and contact us to schedule a test drive.

Are you looking to preserve the condition of your Toyota vehicle? Instead of getting your maintenance done at a subpar auto shop, you can sign up for a prepaid maintenance plan directly through Toyota. Below, you can learn about the different prepaid maintenance plans and why you should consider them. Benefits of a Toyota Prepaid Maintenance Plan 2023 Toyota Tundra ToyotaCare is a reliable no-cost maintenance and roadside assistance plan, but it's only available for brand-new Toyota vehicles. When you get one of the manufacturer's prepaid maintenance plans, you can protect your vehicle even if it's already been in use for a while. One of the most enticing aspects of a prepaid plan is that you get to lock in the current rates for maintenance services. Over the years, the costs of specific services may increase at surprising rates. With a prepaid maintenance plan, you don't have to fall victim to these price hikes. Instead, you can receive the service for the cost it was when you initially signed up for the plan. Another benefit of getting a prepaid maintenance plan through Toyota is the ability to maintain your vehicle's performance and safety. Certified technicians who specialize in Toyota vehicles will always be working on your car, so you can bring it in for service with peace of mind. Get ToyotaCare Plus When ToyotaCare Expires While every new Toyota vehicle comes with ToyotaCare— which provides coverage for up to two years of 25,000 miles — you can get extended coverage with ToyotaCare Plus. This prepaid maintenance plan offers protection for up to 45,000 miles or four years from the first date of use, whichever comes first. Toyota classifies the date of first use as whenever your vehicle is first put into service. Eligibility for ToyotaCare Plus ToyotaCare Plus is meant for car owners who no longer qualify for ToyotaCare, but these car owners still have specific eligibility requirements to meet. Firstly, an interested customer needs to have less than 31,000 miles on their vehicle's odometer. Their vehicle also has to be within 37 months of the first use date. Otherwise, Toyota won't allow the customer to sign up for the ToyotaCare Plus prepaid plan. What Do You Get With the ToyotaCare Plus Plan? The ToyotaCare Plus prepaid maintenance plan comes with comprehensive maintenance and roadside assistance services. You'll receive complete coverage of factory-recommended maintenance for your necessary services at 20,000, 35,000, 40,000, and 45,000 miles. One of these included services is an engine oil and filter change. By performing this service, certified technicians with specific training in Toyota vehicles will help improve your engine efficiency, increase your fuel efficiency, and prolong the lifespan of your engine. These technicians will also perform a tire rotation to ensure all your tires receive even amounts of wear and tear as you drive your vehicle. Other included maintenance services are vehicle fluid refills and cabin air filter replacements. For any replacement, Toyota technicians always use genuine Toyota parts to ensure they're compatible with your vehicle. Still, Toyota technicians will perform multi-point inspections following each service to ensure your vehicle is in working order. If they detect anything abnormal during this inspection, they can diagnose the problem and provide an effective and affordable solution. Note that each Toyota vehicle has different factory-recommended services and interval requirements. Depending on the model you have, a Toyota employee can help you determine what kind of maintenance schedule and frequency is right for your vehicle. While the maintenance services are an important part of ToyotaCare Plus, you can also note the roadside assistance services that it offers. No matter what day of the week it is or what hour of the day it is, Toyota roadside crew members are available to assist you in the event your vehicle stops working. If someone else is driving your vehicle and you aren't present, they can still use your ToyotaCare Plus plan to seek assistance. A few of the roadside assistance services that Toyota offers under this plan include battery jump-starting and emergency fuel delivery. If you've locked yourself out of your vehicle, you can also call the Toyota roadside crew for lockout protection services. They can come to your rescue with tire replacements, towing, or winching services. Note that as far as towing goes, the roadside crew will tow your vehicle to the nearest Toyota dealership or the Toyota dealership of your choice if it's within 25 miles of the closest location. Consider Getting Toyota Service Care After four years or 45,000 miles with your Toyota vehicle, you won't be eligible for ToyotaCare Plus anymore. However, that doesn't mean you have to go without a prepaid maintenance plan. You can sign up for the Toyota Service Care prepaid maintenance plan. This plan lasts for two years and doesn't account for mileage, so you can put as many miles on your vehicle as you'd like. Once you purchase this plan, coverage begins immediately. At the end of the two-year period, you can renew your plan as long as your vehicle identification number (VIN) doesn't have any other active prepaid plan attached to it. Toyota doesn't limit the number of times you can renew your plan, so you can always have this plan for as long as you own your vehicle. The benefits of this plan in terms of maintenance and roadside assistance services are the same as they are in the ToyotaCare Plus plan, so you can benefit from access to consistent support from qualified technicians. If you aren't already the proud owner of a Toyota vehicle, you can head over to Longo Toyota in El Monte today. Here, you can browse our available inventory of new and certified pre-owned Toyota vehicles. One of our sales agents will be happy to discuss the benefits of different vehicles so you can find the one that suits your preferences. Upon finding the perfect vehicle, you can sign up for the appropriate maintenance plan so you can protect your investment for the long term.

El Monte, California, is only about 20 minutes from downtown Los Angeles and has plenty of fun indoor and outdoor activities for kids and adults. Here are some of the best weekend activities in the area. The Whittier Narrows Nature Center 1 Whittier Narrows Nature Center, South El Monte by The Fun Chronicles is licensed with CC0 1.0 At the Whittier Narrows Nature Center, you can enjoy nature in the heart of the city. It's in South El Monte, about 10 minutes away from El Monte. The National Audubon Society started this nature center in 1939, and the County of Los Angeles Department of Parks and Recreation acquired it in 1970. It covers 400 acres and is ideal for enjoying the sunrise or sunset. The Whittier Narrows Nature Center is next to the San Gabriel River and the Whittier Narrow Dam. It also has four lakes that act as winter sanctuaries for migrating waterfowl. There's also a picnic area and an equestrian area. You can explore this place's many trails on your own or participate in one of the regular excursions led by guides. On guided walks, you can borrow a pair of binoculars. The area is excellent for hiking or bird watching, and many trails are accessible for people with wheelchairs or strollers. More than 300 bird species inhabit this park, including the protected white-tailed kite, the California gnatcatcher, and the endangered Least Bell's vireo. You can also see American kestrels, turkey vultures, red-tailed hawks, and over 250 plant species. Location: 1000 Durfee Road., South El Monte Hours: Tuesday through Sunday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. The American Military Museum People often call the American Military Museum “Tankland” because of its wide range of tanks, military choppers, buses, and other equipment. It has more than 180 exhibits that date from 1933 to the present. Some highlights include an M-47 Patton medium tank, an M551 Sheridan light tank, and an M5A1 Stuart light tank. Along with military vehicles from World War II, the Korean War, the Vietnam War, and more, you can see old photographs, weapons, first-hand narratives from veterans, uniforms, and many other interesting items. This museum opened in 1962, designed to honor veterans and active members of the military. You can explore it at your own pace or sign up for a guided tour. Admission is free for kids under 5 years old, and it's only $1 for children from 5 to 9 years old and $3 for those from 10 to 16 years old. Adults pay $5, and veterans and people 65 or older pay $4. The museum doesn't accept cash, but you can use your credit or debit card. Since most exhibits are outdoors, it's closed when it's raining or the ground is muddy. Location: 1918 Rosemead Blvd., South El Monte Hours: Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The Huntington People often call the Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens the “Huntington” for short. All these attractions are part of a large complex in San Marino, about half an hour from El Monte. Visiting it is a great way to spend part of your weekend. The Huntington Library is available for people 18 and older for independent research. It has more than 11 million items, including medieval manuscripts, photographs, maps and atlases, early hand-printed books, and information about the history of California and the history of science, medicine, and technology. Appointments for research are required. The Huntington Art Museum has more than 45,000 art and historical artifacts from Europe, Asia, and the United States. It has many galleries, and the exhibits change often. Seeing everything takes at least a few hours, and this place displays many different art forms and styles. One of the most famous paintings at this museum is The Blue Boy. British painter Thomas Gainsborough created the portrait of a young boy wearing dashing blue attire in 1770. Henry and Arabella Huntington bought it in 1921 for $728,000. At the time, it was the highest amount ever paid for a painting. Here are some of The Huntington Botanical Gardens’ many absorbing, beautiful gardens: California Garden Australian Garden Camellia Garden Herb Garden Japanese Garden Chinese Garden Jungle Garden Subtropical Garden Lily Ponds Ranch Garden Palm Garden Shakespeare Garden Rose Garden Desert Garden It has many endangered and rare species and covers about 130 acres. It also contains more than 83,000 plants and a variety of sculptures and fountains. There's a conservatory with a 16,000-square-foot greenhouse and a plant lab where you can design a leaf quilt. The greenhouse also has a bog with many carnivorous plants. Location: 1151 Oxford Road, San Marino Hours: The Huntington is open every day except Tuesday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Capacity is limited, so weekend reservations are required and strongly recommended for weekdays. The Montebello Barnyard Zoo The Montebello Barnyard Zoo is in Montebello, about 20 minutes away from El Monte. It's ideal for kids; you and your family can ride a pony, a tractor, or a merry-go-round. On weekends, your children can ride all three for $16 per child. However, you need to bring your own helmets to ride the ponies. General admission is $7, and there's a petting zoo where you can feed and pet ponies, donkeys, goats, and sheep. You can also see many other animals and a pond with lots of ducks. Drinks and snacks are for sale, and you can mine for stones and get a fun glitter tattoo as well. After you try these fun activities, you can enjoy one of the many restaurants in the area. Location: 600 Rea Drive, Montebello Hours: Wednesday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and weekends from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. These are only some of the fun things you can do during a weekend in the El Monte area. Did we miss any of your favorite activities? Contact our Longo Toyota dealership and let us know which places you like to visit most. We would love to check them out as well.

Just like air filter replacements, tire rotations, and transmission fluid top-offs, wheel alignment is an essential part of car maintenance. Below, you can learn more about this service and why it's important to stay up-to-date with it. What Is Wheel Alignment? 2023 Toyota Corolla Hybrid Wheel alignment involves the assessment and adjustment of the vehicle's suspension. This aspect of car maintenance is different for each car, as the maintenance technician's job is to return the vehicle's suspension and steering components back to the manufacturer's original specifications. After a vehicle receives this service, its wheels are once again in proper alignment with the body's centerline. A maintenance technician can determine which kind of wheel alignment is best for your vehicle. Most larger SUVs and trucks require a thrust alignment. On the other hand, smaller passenger vehicles can typically benefit from a traditional four-wheel alignment. What Causes Your Wheels To Get Out of Alignment? Here are some common reasons your wheels may go out of alignment: You Got New Tires As a vehicle owner, you may install new tires at any point for various reasons. If you experience a flat tire while driving, you'll have to get a new permanent tire to replace the temporary donut tire. You may also choose to get new tires if you want a performance upgrade, greater aesthetic appeal, or added height for your vehicle. Whatever the reason may be for new tire installation, this process can create the need for wheel alignment services. You Got Replacements for Suspension Parts When you get replacements for suspension parts, it's important to have a wheel alignment done. Any replacement of a suspension part can alter the angle of your wheels and tires. It's also important to consider a wheel alignment if you have any of your current suspension components adjusted. Your Vehicle Has Hit a Curb or Been In a Fender-Bender Any time your vehicle receives a jolt due to hitting an object, whether it be a curb or another car, its wheels may become misaligned. This misalignment of the wheels usually occurs at higher speeds, but any kind of unexpected bump or jostle can create the need for wheel alignment services. Your Vehicle Hasn't Had a Wheel Alignment in Over a Year Wheel alignment is a service that your vehicle can benefit from at least once a year. If you can't remember the last time your wheels have been aligned, it's likely time for you to get this service done. Once you do, you can make an effort to return for the same service at least once every year. How To Tell If Your Wheels Are Out of Alignment The above reasons may indicate that your vehicle is overdue for a wheel alignment. However, you might not have had any of the above events happen. Or, you might have hit a curb and not thought anything of it after it happened. If you're unsure whether you need a wheel alignment, you can be on the lookout for these physical signs that your vehicle needs this service: Your Vehicle Tends to Pull to the Left or Right Think about how you drive your vehicle. Do you feel as if you're constantly trying to bring your vehicle back into the center of your lane? If your vehicle tends to pull to the left or right, it's likely that it needs a wheel alignment. Your Steering Wheel Is Crooked Picture yourself driving down a narrow country road in your vehicle's current condition. If you're driving on a straight path but the steering wheel is slightly crooked, you may need a wheel alignment. Even if the steering wheel's crookedness isn't extreme, it's better to get your vehicle checked out rather than allow the problem to get worse. Your Steering Wheel Behaves Abnormally After You Complete a Turn Picture yourself coming out of a tight turn with your vehicle. Think about what the steering wheel does. In a vehicle with ideal alignment, the steering wheel returns to its center position with some effort and guidance by your hands. In a vehicle with poor alignment, one of two extremes may occur. The steering wheel may abruptly return to its center with no effort, or you may have to use excessive force to get it centered once again. In any case, it's best to take your vehicle in for a wheel alignment service. There's Excessive Wear on Your Tires You can also do a physical inspection of your tires to determine if your vehicle may benefit from wheel alignment. Check each tire individually for excessive wear and tear. Be sure to look at the outside and inside of each tire. If one or more tires have noticeable damage, your vehicle may be due for a wheel alignment. Note that tire damage is only a potential indicator of the need for a wheel alignment. Your tires may just be old, or you may be due for a tire rotation. Regardless of the cause, it's important to visit a qualified auto service center so a reputable technician can diagnose the problem. Wheel Alignment Creates a More Comfortable Ride When your wheels are properly aligned, you may experience a more comfortable ride. Misaligned wheels can cause tires to degrade, meaning that you may feel vibrations in the steering wheel. If you want to focus on your driving without worrying about every little bump and jolt you feel, consider getting your tires aligned. Improve Fuel Efficiency With Wheel Alignment Properly aligned wheels help a car operate with minimal effort. If your wheels are out of place, your car will have to work harder to get where you want it to go. You can save money at the gas pump in the long term and improve fuel efficiency when you seek a wheel alignment for your car. Wheel Alignment Reduces Wear and Tear on Your Tires Misaligned wheels place uneven pressure on each of your vehicle's tires. The heightened resistance between the driving surface and the tire causes your vehicle to work harder. As a result, you may notice uneven wear and tear on your tires. Not only does this create an uncomfortable driving experience, but it can also increase the chances of a blown-out tire when driving. Now that you know more about the importance of wheel alignment, you can schedule this service with our technicians at Longo Toyota. We invite you to contact our team with any questions you have so you can h

The new Toyota RAV4 makes a powerful first impression anywhere you take it, thanks to its striking shape and vivid two-tone color options. There is much to admire about the interior as well, from the color options to its connectivity and comfort features. Our Longo Toyota dealership can guide you toward the best Toyota trim level and options for you. Whenever you're ready to buy or lease one of our models, please get in touch with us to get started. Check out our overview of the Toyota RAV4's impressive interior. RAV4 Interior Comfort and Style 2023 Toyota RAV4 The sophisticated exterior styling of the RAV4 matches a practical but premium interior, with superbly finished surfaces and tactile rubber. Stripe-pattern wrapping is present on several of the door handles and knobs, as well as the dash and door tops. Automatic climate control and remote keyless entry come standard, along with other common features in all new Toyota vehicles. Advanced ambient lighting, dual-zone automatic climate control, and push-button start are all available or standard features on the right trim level. All the front seats are comfortable and accommodating for adult passengers. The second row's three seats will also fit adults comfortably. Electrically adjustable front seats are included in every vehicle, starting with the Excel model. The 2023 Toyota RAV4's optional heated front and rear outboard seats will keep everyone warm. If you choose the PHEV, or plug-in hybrid electric vehicle, the rear seats can have heated or ventilated settings. Shop Our Inventory of New Toyota RAV4 Safety, Lighting, and Viewing Features Regarding safety, Toyota provides two full sets of Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) connectors and a tether anchor for the RAV4's rear outboard seats. These LATCH connectors allow for the installation of child safety seats. They are the most trusted, commonly adopted form of child seat connector. Also, the Toyota RAV4 interior includes a standard front passenger airbag system, a total of eight multi-stage airbags to protect the driver and front passengers. The rear passengers are equally protected, and a rear seat reminder can help ensure you don't forget anything when leaving your vehicle. Depending on your trim level, you may have access to advanced Toyota Safety Sense driver assistance features, such as road sign assist and full-speed dynamic cruise control. You get a good view of the road and the side from any seat, and it's easy to settle inside the RAV4's interior. The sensors and rearview cameras are helpful guides for parking, and the optional panoramic glass top offers a view of the expansive sky. Last but not least, LED room lights and door switch illumination make it easier to see at night. RAV4 Interior Dimensions The latest generation of the RAV4 offers 37.5 cubic feet of space behind the second row. That can expand to 69.7 cubic feet when folding down all available seats. You and up to four passengers will have plenty of room, with a passenger volume of 98.9 cubic feet and a total interior volume of 136.4 cubic feet. Its interior seating dimensions include legroom of 41.0 inches up front and 37.8 inches in the back, shoulder room of 57.8/56.4 inches in the front and back, and 54.3/47.7 inches of front and rear hip room. These numbers add up to one of the roomiest SUVs of its size. Seating Material Options and Colors The interior color and material options for your new 2023 Toyota RAV4 will depend on the trim level you select. While the XLE Premium and above trim levels come with SofTex leatherette, the LE and XLE have cloth-trimmed seats. There are two color options for all three: Black or Nutmeg, and Ash is an additional choice for the upper two. Starting with the XLE Premium, Toyota adds a leather-wrapped wheel. While the TRD can only be outfitted in Black, the Adventure's seating options include Mocha or Black. The Limited adds Nutmeg and Ash as additional options but does not include Mocha. All told, you're sure to find the right combination of material and color, plus all the other details, to create the perfect Toyota RAV4 interior. Cargo and Loading On top of the Toyota RAV4's many benefits, the interior is simple to load from the back or front. Just fold down the 60/40-split back seats and loading or unloading becomes even more convenient. A manual liftgate appears standard, but depending on the trim levels and packages you choose, you could get a RAV4 with a power liftgate. Some are even hands-free, great for loading while your hands are full. Equally valuable is a range of small-item storage compartments around the cabin. There are two cupholders in each row of seats and several little bins around the console to help store small objects. Larger goods can fit in the glovebox and armrest cubby, and water bottles can be kept in the door pockets. Passengers can store their cell phones or tablets in the seatback map pockets. Infotainment Features The new infotainment system for the RAV4 has a modern design, up-to-date programming, and a straightforward screen arrangement. The tactile controls beside the screen also help you perform everyday functions, such as controlling the radio. Standard features include an 8-inch touch screen, a 7-inch digital instrument cluster with an analog tachometer, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, navigation, a virtual assistant, a Wi-Fi hotspot, satellite radio, a six-speaker stereo, Bluetooth, and three USB ports. A 10.5-inch touch screen, a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster, a subwoofer-equipped JBL 2 Premium Audio audio system, wireless device charging, two additional USB ports, and a 120-volt household power outlet are available as options. Shop for a New Toyota in El Monte Now that you have an overview of the Toyota RAV4's interior, why not browse our inventory and take the next steps on an available model that interests you? Get pre-approved, schedule test drives of one of our used SUVs for sale, and more from the convenience of home or anywhere you like, all thanks to the Longo Toyota website and our experienced team.

If you're searching for a dependable, fuel-efficient compact ride, there's a good chance the Toyota Corolla is at the top of your list. This venerable Japanese import is a long-time favorite of drivers who value affordability, practicality, and Toyota's legendary reliability. But which Corolla trim is right for you? Two of the most popular trims are the Corolla LE and SE. Both are excellent choices, but some key differences may sway your decision. On the one hand, the LE trim offers excellent value for the budget-minded shopper. In addition, it boasts a few more perks over the entry-level L variant, including factory options to dress up the exterior. On the other hand, the SE trim is the value leader of the Corolla lineup. It pairs exceptional performance with tasteful interior and exterior upgrades. Plus, unique edition models like the Nightshade and Apex ensure you can stand out from the crowd. Let's pit these two hotly contested trims head-to-head in a series of categories to see which one comes out on top and is worthy of your hard-earned dollar. Browse Our Inventory of New Toyota Corolla Pricing 2023 Toyota Corolla LE As Toyota's economy sedan option, the entire Corolla lineup offers a very attractive price point. And, even its most costly Apex trim will only set you back around $26,665 MSRP — making it one of the least expensive cars in the class. So, when it comes to pricing, both the LE and SE trims are great value propositions. However, the LE pulls ahead with a starting MSRP of $21,970 — several hundred dollars less than the SE's $22,260 MSRP. This makes the LE an unbeatable bargain for anyone on a strict budget. But then again, the SE trim has exclusive edition models that may be worth the extra cash. Performance On the performance front, the SE trim is a clear winner. It comes standard with Toyota's 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine. This mill packs 169 horsepower and 151 lb-ft of torque — enough to outrun the LE trim's 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine that is good for 139 horsepower and 126 lb-ft of torque. The SE trim also has a sport-tuned exhaust, sport suspension, and refined steering, making it the ideal choice for those wanting to take their morning commute up a notch. Both trims come with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), which helps to maximize fuel economy. An optional six-speed manual transmission is also available on the SE trim. Although throttle response is sharper with the manual, both transmissions offer smooth shifts and responsive acceleration. And thanks to the potent 2.0-liter engine, the SE trim has a zero to 60 time of only 8 seconds, making it an excellent pick for thrill-seekers. Fuel Economy Fuel economy is a significant factor for many Corolla shoppers, so comparing the two trims' efficiency ratings would only be fair. The LE trim averages an impressive 30 mpg in city driving, 38 mpg on the highway, and 33 mpg combined. Meanwhile, the SE trim can save even more fuel with its improved engine. It scores up to 31 mpg in city driving, 40 mpg on the highway, and 34 mpg combined. That's a slight but noteworthy 2 mpg bump in the SE trim, which is welcome news for those who rack up a lot of miles. Interior and Exterior There's relatively little difference between the LE and SE trims regarding interior and exterior features. Both come standard with a six-way power driver's seat, remote keyless entry, and a six-speaker audio system. Additionally, both trims have 60/40 split-folding rear seats, automatic climate control, and premium black cloth upholstery. The SE trim offers a bit more refinement with a leather-trimmed steering wheel, premium sports seats with sport fabric inserts, and LED daytime running lights. Outside, the SE trim has a few more bells and whistles than the LE. It comes with black accents, alloy wheels, and a sporty black and bronze front lip spoiler — great for styling up your ride. In addition, high-grade LED headlights, a sport mesh dark grille, and chrome exhaust tips give the SE trim an even more stylish look. The LE trim does have a few factory options to dress up the exterior, but you'll have to pay extra for those. Infotainment and Connectivity This is another area where the LE and SE trims are nearly identical. Both come with an 8-inch touch screen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa compatibility. Wi-Fi and Bluetooth integration are also standard. The SE trim does give you access to a few more entertainment options, like a nine-speaker JBL sound system. Overall, the LE and SE trims offer great connectivity features, so you won't be missing out on anything with either of them. Safety The Toyota Corolla is a safe car, no matter which trim you choose. The LE and SE trim come standard with the Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 suite of driver-assistance features, including lane departure warning, lane-keeping assist, electronic stability control, and driver monitoring alert. In addition, optional features like a blind-spot monitor and rear cross-traffic alert are available on both trims. It's a tie in the safety department, so you can feel extra secure with either Corolla model. Which Corolla is Right for You? The Toyota Corolla LE and SE trims are both great options for those who want to get the most out of their Corolla experience. But all things considered, it's hard not to recommend the SE trim. You get performance upgrades, improved fuel economy, and a ton of interior and exterior upgrades for only a few hundred dollars more. But, of course, the LE trim is still an excellent choice for those who don't need all the bells and whistles. Either way, you can rest assured that you will get a reliable, sporty, and safe car. Longo Toyota of El Monte, California, is your one-stop shop for all things Toyota. From getting pre-qualified for auto financing to taking a test drive and choosing the right trim. We make it easy to drive away in your dream car. And not only do we offer great prices on new Toyota cars, but we also have a variety of used and certified pre-owned vehicles to choose from. Contact us or visit us today to experience the Longo difference. We look forward to helping you find the perfect Toyota for your needs.

Picture this: it's a beautiful California day, and you're out for a drive when you suddenly catch a whiff of something terrible. It smells like something died in your car. No matter how often you clean your car, there always seems to be a lingering odor that won't go away. Whether it's a musty odor from last night's takeout, the smell of cigarette smoke from the previous owner, a wet dog smell that's been in your car since you've had it, or just general wear and tear, getting rid of odors from your vehicle can be a tricky endeavor. Bad odors in cars are all too common, but fear not — you don't have to live with them. With the right products, some elbow grease, and some patience, you can get your car smelling fresh and clean in no time. Here are some tips for removing unwanted odors from your car and preventing them in the first place: Surface Cleaning With a White Vinegar and Water Solution Image by Christian Wiediger is free to use under the Unsplash License The acidic nature of vinegar helps neutralize odors, and when mixed with water, it's a great natural cleaning solution for hard surfaces, such as your car’s dashboard and plastic mats. It's also strong enough to cut through built-up grime and grease. Mix equal parts of white vinegar and warm water, adding more vinegar if needed. Dip a cloth in the mixture and wring it out, then wipe down all hard surfaces. This should help reduce any musty or mildew smells. A subtle vinegar smell will linger, so open the windows and let the car air out. Vacuuming Upholstery and Carpets Most odors will be trapped in your car's upholstery, mats, and carpets. Vacuum them regularly to remove dirt, pet hair, dust, and debris that can accumulate over time and cause odors. Take out all the mats, floor liners, and car seats, and vacuum them thoroughly using a hose attachment. Be sure to vacuum all the crevices, especially around the edges of car seats and door panels. Vacuum the carpets and remove any lingering pet hair stuck in the fibers. Vacuuming will help reduce odors and keep your car smelling fresh. Using Baking Soda and Charcoal To Absorb Odors Baking soda and charcoal are both great natural odor absorbers. Sprinkle a thin layer of baking soda on the floor mats, car seats, and other fabric surfaces (avoid leather upholstery and anything else easily damaged by baking soda). Let it sit for at least 15 minutes before vacuuming. Charcoal can also help absorb odors. Place several pieces of charcoal in a shallow dish and leave them in the car overnight to help reduce any unwanted smells. Using Essential Oils and Air Fresheners Essential oils can be surprisingly effective at helping to reduce odors in your car. The scent of essential oils helps mask the bad odors and leaves your car smelling fresh. Place a few drops of essential oil on cotton balls or pieces of tissue paper and place it strategically around your car. Air fresheners are also a good option for getting rid of odors. Different types are available, from sprays to plug-ins and scented clips. Just be sure to use air fresheners sparingly — too much scent can be overwhelming. Treating Persistent Odors With Odor Eliminators and Bombs If you're dealing with persistent odors, some more specialized options are available. Car odor eliminators are specially formulated to absorb bad smells and help prevent them from returning. They come in solid blocks, sprays, or gels that you can apply directly to fabric surfaces. Odor bombs are another option for getting rid of bad smells. They come in various scents and contain activated charcoal, baking soda, and other natural odor neutralizers. Place one in your car for several hours or overnight to help reduce any lingering odors. Replacing Air Filters or Deodorizing the AC System If you're dealing with odors coming from the air vents, you may need to replace the air filters or deodorize the AC system. Replacing air filters will help remove any dirt, dust, or debris causing bad smells. You can also use an odor-removing spray specifically designed for car air vents. Spray it around the vents and fan speed settings, then let it sit for a few minutes before turning the AC system back on. This should help reduce any musty or mildew smells from the vents. Calling a Professional If none of this works, it may be time to call in a professional. Professional car odor removal services are available to help get rid of even the most stubborn odors. Professionals use specialized techniques, ozone treatments, and powerful deodorizing agents to eliminate any persistent smells from your car. Prevention Tips As the saying goes, “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” Here are some tips for preventing odors from occurring in the first place: Clean spills immediately: Spills are one of the top causes of odors in cars. Clean up any spills right away to help prevent smells from settling in and becoming harder to get rid of Vacuum regularly: Regularly vacuuming helps remove dirt, dust, and debris that can accumulate over time and cause bad odors Keep windows open: Letting fresh air in can help reduce odors. Always open your car’s windows and doors whenever possible to let in some fresh air Use air fresheners sparingly: Air fresheners can be great for eliminating bad smells, but too much scent can be overwhelming. Use them sparingly and only when necessary Avoid smoking in your car: Cigarette smoke is one of the most difficult odors to eliminate. Stop smoking in your car, or if you do, open the windows and air it out afterward Place a moisture absorber inside your car: Moisture can cause bad smells, so make sure to place a moisture absorber inside your car to help keep it smelling fresh At Longo Toyota in El Monte, we understand how important it is to keep your car smelling clean and fresh. We hope these tips help you eliminate any odors in your vehicle and keep it smelling great. And if you're due for an upgrade, be sure to check out our extensive selection of new and used vehicles, including used suvs for sale, financing options, and more. Be sure to contact us or give us a call with any questions or to schedule a test drive. We look forward to hearing from you.