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A Tacoma is a compact pickup truck that was originally introduced by Toyota in 1995. A decade after the first model was created, it received the "Truck of the Year" award from Motor Trend Magazine. Since then, Toyota has modified the body style twice to improve its handling and make it more appealing to consumers. Customers can select between four models: SR5, TRD Sport, TRD Off-Road, and Limited. There are many reasons to drive a Toyota Tacoma. High Safety Ratings When it comes to driving, one of the first things that customers want to know is how the vehicle ranks in safety. In a crash test, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration gave the Toyota Tacoma a four-star overall safety rating, with five-star ratings in passenger side barrier and rear seat, side barrier and pole. The truck has a four-wheel anti-lock brake system, child seat anchors, stability and traction control, and tire pressure monitoring for maximum safety. It also has very responsive steering and strong braking capacity for immediate stops. more Comfortable Interior For many truck drivers, comfort isn't the most important feature, since this type of vehicle is typically more focused on utility and function. However, the Toyota Tacoma combines the best of both worlds, with high-quality interior materials that provide a more comfortable ride. It also comes standard with a premium sound system, which includes smartphone integration, a large touch screen, Bluetooth capacity, and a rearview backup camera. If you prefer the luxurious feel of leather, that is also an optional upgrade. Top-Notch Performance A Toyota Tacoma has a standard four-cylinder engine with the option to upgrade to a V-6 engine for maximum power. With an automatic transmission, the Tacoma has an estimated fuel efficiency of 19/23 miles per gallon, which is similar to the efficiency of other trucks in the class. The V-6 engine drops the numbers only slightly to 16/21 city/highway. Simplified Towing On the V-6 engine model, customers can upgrade to the tow package that includes a class IV tow hitch, oil and transmission coolers, stronger battery, trailer sway control, and more. With this added upgrade, the Toyota Tacoma can tow as much as 6,500 pounds with no problem. Even without the tow package, the spacious 73.5-inch cargo bed simplifies the process of toting around equipment, supplies, and anything else you need to take with you in the truck. Improved Exterior The changes between newer and older models aren't huge, but they do improve the overall look and feel of the truck. An upgraded grille and new headlights look appealing from the front, while the rear end of the truck features a new shape. It also has revised wheel arches and sleeker lines, which drivers will appreciate. Whether you are looking for a functional pickup to drive to and from a construction site or a sturdier vehicle that will handle well in snowy and icy conditions, the Toyota Tacoma is a great choice within the compact pickup department. Its features make it easy to handle while providing the stability that truck drivers need.   Image via Toyota

Maryland's mountains, forests, and fields are all terrific fodder for a scenic journey through the state, but coastal drives have a charm all their own, and these are the three best ones for anyone living in Maryland. Chesapeake Country National Scenic Byway The first ever nationally designated scenic byway in Maryland, this 85-mile path takes about two to three hours to drive, but for a full experience of the eastern side of the Chesapeake Bay, we recommend planning a weekend with a few hotel stops in the cities that interest you most. The basic path begins in Stevensville, makes a backwards C route to Rock Hall, and then back a ways and north all the way to Chesapeake City. First, you may want to check out the serene beaches of Terrapin Nature Park before you leave Kent Island. Stop by the visitor venter as you leave Stevenson, if you want more ideas of where to stop. The drive on MD 18 and MD 213 will take you to Kent Narrows, and then Church Hill, known for its beautiful vineyards. Moving along 213, you'll cross Chester River Bridge and reach Chestertown, eventually Georgetown, and finally Chesapeake City, home to historic districts, calm canals, and horse-drawn carriage tours. more Cape to Cape Cape to Cape is a 120-mile north to south three state drive, starting in Cape Henlopen in Delaware, cutting down along the Atlantic coast of Maryland, and ending in Chincoteague at the easternmost part of Virginia. Along the journey, you'll see Photo by jcantroot | Licensed under cc BY 2.0

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The 2016 RAV4 Hybrid brings the number of Toyota hybrid models to eight (plus six more in the Lexus luxury division). The RAV4 Hybrid is a no compromise vehicle aimed at active young couples who put high fuel economy at the top of a priority list that also includes utility, style, versatility and capability. The fuel economy estimates are expected to be high, as Toyota anticipates to receive EPA ratings of 34 mpg city / 31 mpg highway / 33 mpg combined for both 2016 RAV4 Hybrid models. The RAV4 Hybrid comes in two premium grades: XLE and Limited. The RAV4 gas version comes in four grades: LE, XLE, Limited and the new SE.

Driving a Toyota Prius is a good way to save on gas while lessening your environmental impact. However, some car shoppers aren't sure whether the Prius is the right choice based on the way they drive, which typically includes shorter distances more often. Efficient Driving Capacity Not only does a Toyota Prius offer better efficiency than other cars, it actually shows you how efficiently you are driving. Monitors on the display indicate the present mileage per gallon, along with how much energy you are saving by accelerating more gently or applying the brakes. It is easy to know exactly how efficient your car is when you can hear it switch to the electric motor. more Improved Fuel Capacity in the City Unlike most cars, which have better gas mileage on the highway, a Toyota Prius actually gets better mileage when driving shorter distances, such as between home and work within a city. When you press the brake, the motion actually creates more electricity that is then reused when the car accelerates quickly or is driving at lower speeds. Some estimates show that a Prius can go an estimated 50 miles per gallon or more in the city, even in stop-and-go traffic. Quiet and Smooth When you drive a Prius, you might not even realize that it's running when you are making your way around town. Between all the city noises, from horns honking to sirens blaring, it is nice to have a vehicle that doesn't make as much noise. It is almost silent when running on the electric motor and is still fairly quiet when the gasoline motor engages. Save Money As a city-dweller, you probably have a lot of extra expenses, so it's nice to cross one off your list. A Toyota Prius typically doesn't require a state emissions test, although certain states have different requirements. Similar to other Toyota vehicles, the Prius is also very durable and won't require a lot of maintenance. This is especially appealing to those living in bigger cities who often don't have time for lengthy repairs. Stay Warm A lot of people who live in bigger cities reside in apartments or buildings for multiple families, which results in more frequent street parking. On a cold winter morning, you often have to wait for quite awhile before your car warms up and feels comfortable. The Prius stores coolant in an insulated container, which keeps it warm for as long as 72 hours. As a result, your car will warm up almost as soon as you turn the key in the ignition. A Toyota Prius is very appealing to those who want to reduce their impact on the environment while still being able to get around easily. With these benefits, it is the ideal option for residents of cities around the world. It provides the opportunity to save money and energy, get optimal gas mileage even when stopping and going on a daily commute, and stay warm and toasty when driving in colder temperatures.   Image via Toyota

Clear skies and open roads practically beg you to hop into your car and head out of town. Maryland offers no shortage of diverting parks that make a day trip or weekend getaway well worth the drive. Natural wonders, historic adventures, cultural fun, and day hikes await, all within the Maryland state lines. Natural Wonders Journey to Assateague Island, whose mystical and untouched beauty draws visitors here to admire the untouched shores of this barrier island. Daily the wind whips across its sandy dunes, marshes, and the waves which crash against its shores. Yet, visitors come here to catch a glimpse of Assateague Island's famed wild horses. As a National Seashore, the park's rangers offer guided tours of its natural wonders. Pitch a tent and stay overnight in one of several campgrounds on the island. more Historic Adventures The national anthem traces its origins to the bombs bursting over the ramparts of Fort McHenry during the War of 1812. Francis Scott Key penned this notable song as an ode to the American's heroic defense against the British and the enduring spirit of America. Come and tour this famous star-shaped battlement. This notable National Monument and Historic Shrine lies near the Inner Harbor of Baltimore. Cultural Fun If you're looking for culture, head straight to Glen Echo Park. This site was launched as a National Chautauqua Photo by swallowedtail | Licensed under cc0 1.0

Did you know that the weather and the climate where you live impacts the type of oil that you should use when you get your Suitland Toyota oil changed? Many Suitland people ask how often they should change the oil in their Toyota. Our Suitland service department professionals can help you determine how often your Toyota needs to have the oil changed. One of the things we can help you determine is whether or not your driving habits would be considered normal or severe. Driving in certain conditions means that you may need to change the oil in your Toyota more or less often. Going to be driving in especially warm or cold weather, either in Suitland or out of the MD area? Make sure you tell your oil change technician. This can affect the type of oil the staff at Passport Toyota will put in your Toyota.

At the 2016 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS), Toyota is displaying a research vehicle based on the Mirai fuel cell vehicle which is equipped with satellite communications technology from Kymeta, a U.S.-based company that is the world

If you've considered switching over from your regular old car to a new hybrid model, now is a better time than ever before! Toyota has a number of hybrid models that are stylish, fuel-efficient, and easy on your wallet. In case you needed any other reasons to switch to a hybrid, here are just a few things to love about the Toyota hybrid cars. They're Sleek and Stylish From the classic Prius to the extra-large Highlander, Toyota has the sleek, sophisticated, and stylish design down in all of their models, and their hybrid models are no exception. There's the smaller Prius C, which gets an EPA-estimated 53 MPG in the city. Its small frame makes getting in and out of tight downtown parking a breeze. The newest take on the classic Prius is the Prius Plug-In, which offers a similar build to the classic model, but gets an estimated 95 MPG when running in electric mode. Toyota's beautifully designed Camry, Avalon, and Highlander also have hybrid versions. more They Get Great Gas Mileage Like we mentioned before, the Prius models get excellent gas mileage, and the addition of an electric model only ups the ante. But even the sedans offer fuel economy not found on their standard counterparts. For example, the 2016 Avalon touts an estimated 21 MPG in the city and 31 MPG on the highway; but the Avalon Hybrid MPG estimates are 40 and 39, respectively. Similar improvements can be seen on the Camry Hybrid, which boasts estimates of 43 MPG city driving and 39 MPG on the highway (compared to 25 and 35 MPG, respectively, on the standard model). There's Room for the Family Need something a little roomier than a Prius or a sedan, but still want a hybrid? The Toyota line-up features the Highlander Hybrid, which has seating for up to eight people. This SUV gets an estimated 27 MPG in the city and 28 MPG on the highway, which is an improvement on its standard counterpart's fuel economy (the standard Highlander gets about 20 MPG city driving and 25 on the highway). The Price Tag is Competitive Investing in a hybrid vehicle will, of course, come with a higher price tag than purchasing a standard car. But probably not as high of a price tag as you think! The smallest Prius model starts at just over $19,500. The Camry Hybrid comes in at just under $27,000 starting MSRP, while the standard Camry starts at just over $23,000 MSRP--not much of a difference when you factor in things like fuel efficiency and lower emissions. With its impressive line-up of hybrid vehicles that ranges from the smaller Prius that's great for urban commutes to a new take on the classic sedans, like the Camry and the Avalon, to the family sized Highlander Hybrid, Toyota gives its customers plenty of reasons to switch to a hybrid car. If you're ready for something stylish, easy on your wallet, and better for the environment, there's never been a better time to buy a Toyota hybrid.   Image via Toyota

The Scion $0 Drive-Off Lease Event

The nation's capital is the epicenter of the U.S. is many ways. As the seat of government, Washington D.C. is home to many important government sites and inspiring monuments. Abundant fun can be found in Washington that doesn't cost a penny, from fascinating museums to the arts, culture, and wonders of the natural world. Myriads of Museums The city's pride and joy lies in its world-class museums, spanning every discipline and interest. Experience the sobering history of the Holocaust at the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum, or the rich culture of North America's native peoples at the National Museum of the American Indian. All of the 19 branches of the Smithsonian branches are free, containing fascinating wonders from Dorothy's ruby slippers to Kermit the Frog and the Hope Diamond. more Fun in the Great Outdoors Washington D.C.'s temperate climate makes it an ideal locale for outdoor exploration year-round, but particularly in spring. During this time the city beckons travelers from near and far to experience its blossoming cherry trees during the Cherry Blossom Festival. The famous cherry trees erupt in sprays of delicate pink, lining the Tidal Basin which empties into the nearby Potomac River. The Tidal Basin is a beautiful place to stretch your legs and enjoy the idyllic view of the Jefferson Memorial, reflecting in the waters below, which is also free to visit. If you are looking for more lush flora to enjoy, hop in the car and head to the U.S. Botanical Gardens to take advantage of its free admission and ever-evolving natural displays. Washington for Little Ones Washington sheds its serious side at the National Zoo, where visitors can observe over 400 species amidst the pleasant surroundings of the animal habitats. Be sure to visit the zoo's youngest resident, Bei Bei the baby panda, who was born in 2013. You can literally stay from sunup to sundown, as the zoo is open from 6AM to 6PM. You can also take your little ones to fly kites on the National Mall, watching them fly nearly as high as the obelisk of the Washington Memorial. Spend Time at the Mall You'll find an afternoon's worth of wonder at the Washington Mall, where a must-see array of free attractions awaits. The Vietnam War Memorial and the World War II Memorial will inspire you to contemplate the nation's legacy and future, or ascend the steps of the Lincoln Memorial and stand where Martin Luther King, Jr. once delivered his famous "I Have a Dream" speech. Catch a Free Show Fill up on free culture at the Kennedy Center Millennium Stage. Free performances take place here daily at 6PM. The venue's eclectic lineup spans everything from classical choral and instrumental works, to rock, world fusion, jazz, soul, and gospel. The National Gallery of Art also hosts Sunday evening concerts on a first-come basis. Seating begins at 6PM, and the series runs twice monthly from May to October. You'll be sure to find something in the nation's capital to amaze you, inspire you, or teach you something new at a variety of institutions and landmarks. Photo by Thad Zajdowicz | Licensed under cc0 1.0

The available Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (KDSS) in the 4Runner Trail facilitates extended wheel travel at slow speeds for greater off-road capability and stability. On pavement, KDSS provides a nimble sporty handling feel by reducing body lean when cornering. The Limited adds comfort through the standard and exclusive X-REAS suspension, which automatically adjusts the damping force of shocks when driving over bumpy surfaces or when cornering. A center control absorber cross-links the shock absorbers on opposite corners of the vehicle, substantially reducing pitch and yaw by offsetting opposing inputs.