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Crossover SUVs are very popular among car buyers, boasting impressive functionality and capability. The compact crossover segment is fairly crowded, but one model that's worth looking at is the 2020 Toyota RAV4. 1. Quiet, Comfortable Cabin One of the most appealing aspects of the 2020 Toyota RAV4 is its cabin. The seating area has enough room for up to five, and even taller passengers will feel comfortable in the second row of seating. The RAV4 is also quiet, giving you and your passengers a more comfortable ride, even at high speeds. It comes in six trim levels, so you can choose the features you want at a price you can afford. Standard interior features include single-zone manual climate control, cloth upholstery, manually adjustable front seats, and in-dash storage trays. Tech equipment includes a six-speaker sound system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration, satellite radio, a Wi-Fi hot spot, and a 7-inch touch screen. With the higher trim levels, you can get additional luxurious features, such as faux leather upholstery, wireless charging, a premium audio system, an 8-inch touch screen, heated seats, ambient lighting, up to five USB ports, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and a heated steering wheel. 2. High-End Safety Comes Standard Every 2020 RAV4 also comes equipped with an appealing suite of safety features designed to protect you and your passengers. This suite, called Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, includes a pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, full-speed range dynamic radar cruise control with road sign assist, lane departure warning with steering assist and lane tracing assist, and automatic high beams. Blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and front and rear parking assist with automated braking are available on the higher trim levels as well. 3. Efficiency and Performance The standard engine in all six trim levels of the RAV4 is a 2.5-liter four-cylinder unit, which pumps out 184 pound-feet of torque and 203 horsepower. It's an efficient engine that responds well when you accelerate, yet returns impressive fuel economy estimates. Front-wheel drive comes standard on all but the Adventure and TRD Off-Road, which come with Toyota's AWD system. You can also upgrade any of the other models to include all-wheel drive. Toyota also makes a hybrid version of the RAV4 for those who want to save even more at the pump. 4. Visual Appeal The outside of the 2020 RAV4 shows off sporty styling elements that make this SUV even more appealing. Even the base model comes equipped with LED headlights, taillights, and daytime running lights, 17-inch steel wheels, automatic high beams, power-adjustable and folding side mirrors, low-profile black roof rails, and dual chrome exhaust tips. As you move through the higher trims, you can get additional options to make this SUV even more stylish and functional. Some of these include mudguards, rain-sensing wipers, a height-adjustable power-operated liftgate with jam protection, roof rack crossbars, a panoramic moonroof, and heated side mirrors with integrated turn signal indicators. At Smart Toyota, we have a selection of 2020 Toyota RAV4 models available for you to test drive. Stop by and check out this stylish crossover to see how it stacks up against others in the segment. Image used with permission via toyota.com / cropped from original

If you're planning a trip to the capital city of Wisconsin, you're probably looking for somewhere to stay during your visit. Madison is home to a number of appealing hotels, each offering a wide range of amenities to keep you comfortable. 1. The Madison Concourse Hotel and Governor's Club Located less than a block from Capitol Square, the Madison Concourse Hotel and Governor's Club is a great place to stay if you want to be in the heart of downtown. Many of the rooms offer views of the capitol building. Guests who upgrade to stay in the rooms on the upper three floors get access to the Governor's Club, which includes an evening happy hour and daily breakfast. Each spacious room includes free wireless internet access, a mini-fridge, a coffee maker, and a flat-screen TV. For the ultimate in relaxation, upgrade to a room with a Jacuzzi or whirlpool tub. Additional amenities include an indoor pool and hot tub, restaurant, and a complimentary airport shuttle. 2. DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Madison When you stay at the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Madison, you'll be within walking distance of the shopping and dining options on State Street. It's about a mile from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and offers free shuttle service to several top attractions within 2 miles of the property. In-room amenities include microwaves, complimentary Wi-Fi, and coffee makers. Parking is free, while guests also have access to a fitness center, open 24 hours a day. If you're a Badgers fan, be sure to enjoy at least one meal at the hotel restaurant. It is themed around the local university's mascot and serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. You can also upgrade your stay to include access to the breakfast buffet, which is also served in the restaurant. 3. The Edgewater For an upscale stay, book a room at The Edgewater, a boutique hotel located in downtown. It is next to the university campus and within walking distance of Capitol Square. The hotel also sits at the edge of Lake Mendota, which is visible throughout many common areas and guest rooms. Each luxurious room features well-appointed decor elements, a spacious bathroom with a spa shower, and a plush bed to help you rest and relax. The Edgewater is also known throughout Madison for its spa and wellness facilities. Guests can enjoy a pampering facial, massage, or body treatment at the spa, stay active at the onsite fitness center, or even change their look with a visit to the beauty salon. 4. Courtyard Madison East For an affordable stay, check out Courtyard Madison East. This property is close to the East Towne Mall and the University of Wisconsin. Guests can dine at the onsite restaurant, which serves breakfast, dinner, and cocktails, or head to one of the nearby restaurants. Additional amenities include a fitness center, an indoor swimming pool, and complimentary airport shuttle service. Each room has a flat-screen TV, free Wi-Fi, a microwave, and a fridge. Whether you're looking for a luxurious, upscale property or sticking to a tight budget, you can find a hotel in Madison that suits your needs. Image via Pixabay by Grungly. Used with permission via Pixabay License / cropped from original

If you're shopping for a new SUV, add the 2020 Toyota Highlander Hybrid to your list of models to test drive. This crossover checks all the boxes — it's stylish, eco-friendly, and reasonably priced. Take a look at a few of the reasons you should consider this vehicle for your needs. 1. Incredible Efficiency When looking into SUVs, you may soon find that many of the models in the crossover segment aren't very efficient. But you don't have to sacrifice efficiency for the convenience and functionality of a crossover SUV. Instead, you can get a hybrid model like the 2020 Toyota Highlander Hybrid. This vehicle features a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that works with two or three electric motors, depending on whether you opt for front-wheel or all-wheel drive. The combined output is 243 horsepower and the powertrain works with a continuously variable transmission. According to estimates, the 2020 Highlander Hybrid returns an average of 35 miles per gallon combined. The Limited trim level gets slightly lower efficiency, with the highway estimate coming in at 34 mpg. However, those numbers are quite impressive for a three-row crossover. The non-hybrid version of the Highlander comes in at 21 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway for a combined estimate of 34 mpg. 2. Upscale Interior Within the cabin of the 2020 Highlander Hybrid, you'll find a spacious seating area with room for up to eight, although all models but the base come standard with captain's chairs that takes the seating capacity to seven. Standard cabin features include cloth upholstery, tri-zone automatic climate control, soft-touch materials, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, and six cargo hooks. On the tech side, the base model comes with a six-speaker sound system with an 8-inch touch screen, satellite and HD radio, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration, and four USB ports. For a more luxurious ride, check out the higher trim levels. You can get features like leather upholstery, faux wood trim, ambient interior lighting, heated front-row and second-row seats, power-adjustable seats with adjustable lumbar support, a heated steering wheel, ventilated front seats, and an auto-dimming rearview mirror. Additional options include wireless device charging, a premium audio system, navigation, and a 12.3-inch touch screen. 3. High-End Safety Features All trim levels of the 2020 Toyota Highlander Hybrid come standard with Toyota's Safety Sense 2.0 suite, which includes active safety features to protect you and those around you on the road. The suite includes a pre-collision warning system with automatic braking and pedestrian detection, full-speed range dynamic radar cruise control with road sign assist, a rearview camera, cyclist detection, automatic high beams, lane tracing assist, and lane departure warning with steering assist. Additionally, the Highlander Hybrid comes with blind spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert as standard. Options include front and rear parking assist with automatic braking and a bird's eye view camera system. If you're interested in this crossover SUV, visit Smart Toyota to get behind the wheel. We have a selection of Highlander Hybrid models available for you to test drive, and we can answer any questions you may have about the vehicle. Image used with permission via toyota.com / cropped from original

Whether you use your truck for work or play, Toyota trucks have the power and amenities you need to get the job done. Read on to compare two of Toyota's hardest-working trucks, the 2020 Tacoma and the 2020 Tundra. Cab and Bed Options The 2020 Toyota Tacoma trim packages include the SR, TRD Sport, TRD Off-Road, Limited, and TRD Pro. All Tacoma models are available with a variety of cab and bed options. The Tacoma extended cab features half-size rear-hinged doors and a 6-foot bed. The Tacoma crew cab includes two rows of regular doors and a 5- or 6-foot bed. The 2020 Toyota Tundra trim packages include the SR, SR5, Limited, Platinum, 1794 Edition, and TRD Pro. On the Tundra models, both the extended and crew cab features two rows of regular doors. The Tundra extended cab is available with a 6.5-foot or 8.1-foot bed, while the Tundra crew cab is only available with a 5.5-foot bed. Infotainment Both truck lineups include many modern infotainment features. The Tacoma SR includes a 7-inch touch screen display, while all other Tacoma and Tundra models bump up to an 8-inch display. Both truck lineups include Bluetooth connectivity, voice recognition, USB ports, Amazon Alexa compatibility, Android Auto, and Apple CarPlay. High-end models of both the Tacoma and Tundra include premium audio systems, integrated navigation, and dynamic voice recognition. Engine Engine options for the Tacoma include a 159-horsepower 2.7-liter I-4 engine and a 278-horsepower, 3.5-liter V-6 engine. The SR and SR5 engines are paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission, while all others are built with a 6-speed manual transmission. The Tundra lineup includes one engine, a 381-horsepower, 5.7-liter V-8 engine paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. In both truck lineups, the SR and SR5 models are equipped with rear-wheel drive, while all other models are four-wheel drive. Performance Fuel efficiency is much higher in the Tacoma than the Tundra. The Tacoma has an EPA-estimated fuel efficiency rating of 18 mpg in the city and 22 mpg on the highway. The larger Tundra is slightly lower, with a fuel economy of 13 mpg in the city and 18 mpg on the highway. The payload capacity for the Tacoma varies from 1,105 pounds (TRD Sport) to 1,685 pounds (SR and SR5). The Tundra payload maximum varies from 1,560 (TRD Pro) to 1,730 (SR5 with the 8.1-foot bed). The Tacoma's maximum towing capacity varies from 3,500 pounds (I-4 engines) to a max of 6,600 pounds (V-6 models). The maximum towing capacity for the Tundra varies from 9,200 pounds (TRD Pro 4x4) to 10,200 pounds (SR5 with rear-wheel drive). Both trucks are equipped with a standard towing package that includes a receiver hitch, 4- and 7-pin connector, supplemental coolers, and trailer sway control. The Tundra also includes a tow/haul mode switch and an integrated brake controller. Both the Tacoma and Tundra lineups include off-road TRD models. The Tundra TRD Pro offers a longer bed option, but both include heavy-duty shocks and skid plates. The Tacoma is more nimble when driving off-road thanks to its smaller size and standard off-road tech. The Tacoma is equipped with crawl control, a locking rear differential, and multi-terrain select. The Toyota Tundra does not currently come with crawl control, but it was recently announced that this feature will be available on the 2022 Toyota Tundra TRD PRO. Shop the Toyota Tundra & Toyota Tacoma Trucks in Madison, WI To check out the Tacoma and Tundra for yourself, head over to Smart Toyota. Our experienced staff can help you find the perfect truck for you. We proudly serve drivers throughout the greater Madison, WI area, including Sun Prairie, Middleton, and beyond. Image used with permission via toyota.com / cropped from original

Are you struggling to find something to do over spring break or the summer that will keep your kids occupied? Fortunately, there are plenty of fun-filled destinations in Madison, Wisconsin, that both kids and parents alike can enjoy. Check out some of our favorite fun-filled destinations and get ready for an afternoon to fly by. Henry Vilas Zoo The Henry Vilas Zoo was founded in 1904 when William and Anna Vilas donated 50 acres of land to the city in honor of their son Henry. Today, the Henry Vilas Zoo is one of only a few free admission, community-supported public zoos in the country. The zoo is home to 115 species of animals, from African lions to meerkats, giraffes, and rhinoceros. Visit the Big Cats exhibit, which mimics habitats you'd see in the wild, and the Tropical Rainforest Aviary. The zoo takes its commitment to sustainability and conservation seriously and has LEED-certified buildings. Kids will love special educational programs like Breakfast With the Animals or Snooze at the Zoo, a public sleepover for families featuring animal presentations and behind-the-scenes activities. Madison Children's Museum On a cold or rainy day when you have to be indoors, a visit to the Madison Children's Museum is just the thing to keep everyone occupied. The museum offers families the opportunity to move and play, learn, and engage with inspiring and imaginative exhibits. Visit the Bakke Art Studio, where kids can create masterpieces, from weaving to sculpture and drawing. With Stair Trek: Core to Cosmos, you can take an interactive journey from the Earth's core to the outer limits of the universe. The exhibit features the playful voices of children from the Madison community describing the smells, sounds, and experiences of each of these environments. The museum hosts around 200,000 visitors each year, including 300 school groups and hundreds of educational programs. Olbrich Botanical Gardens Spend a day strolling the paths and taking in the beautiful sights of the 16 acres of the Olbrich Botanical Gardens. The Bolz Conservatory, built in 1991, is a glass pyramid filled with over 650 tropical plants native to regions around the world that bloom year-round, surrounded by free-flying birds and a bubbling waterfall. Visit the Thai pavilion, or "sala," a gift from the government of Thailand and the University of Wisconsin-Madison's Thai Chapter of the Wisconsin Alumni Association. Explore the Sunken Garden, built like a traditional English garden, and the Rose Garden, featuring more than 700 varieties. Babcock Hall Dairy Store For a treat and a one-of-a-kind experience, visit the Babcock Hall Dairy Store. Founded in 1951, the store currently offers 23 flavors of award-winning cheeses made on-site under the guidance of Gary Grossen, Master Cheesemaker, and featuring ice cream flavors such as salted caramel toffee and grapefruit mango sherbet. Visit the second-story observation deck overlooking the on-site dairy plant to take a guided tour and learn how the Babcock Hall Dairy Store makes cheese and ice cream. Kids will get a kick out of these exciting destinations in Madison. Check them out today. Image v via Pixabay by pasja1000 Used with permission via Pixabay License / cropped from original

Whether you're looking to take your family on your next great adventure or down the street to soccer practice, the 2020 Toyota Highlander will get you there. Read on to learn more about why U.S. News & World Report says the 2020 Toyota Highlander "offers a great predicted reliability rating, a sizable cargo hold, and a gentle ride." Fun-Filled Interior The 2020 Toyota Highlander's premium interior offers features that are fun for drivers and passengers alike. An available 12.3-inch touchscreen display has Apple CarPlay compatibility, Android Auto, and an all-access three-month trial Sirius XM subscription. The available JBL with Clari-fi audio system delivers phenomenal surround-sound with 11 speakers with high-quality engineering. A center console with Qi-compatible wireless smartphone charging capabilities allows you to charge your devices with ease on the go. Roomy third-row seating provides seating in the vehicle for up to eight with plenty of legroom for everyone. High-Design Exterior Contoured lines and a chiseled shape give the 2020 Highlander's exterior a unique, eye-catching design. The Highlander's all-new design in 2020 includes 20-inch wheels available on the Limited and Platinum models, and stylish LED headlights come standard. Families will love the convenience of the available hands-free power rear liftgate; with the Smart Key fob in your pocket, simply wave your foot under the rear bumper when your hands are free to load up groceries or sports gear and hit the road. Safety Features The 2020 Toyota Highlander's safety features are designed to give you and your family peace of mind. Toyota Safety Sense is a set of safety features designed to protest you and your passengers, including the pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, dynamic radar cruise control, and lane departure alert. Also included is the new road sign assist, which is designed to detect signs such as stop and speed limits, and display them on the MID. The available digital rearview mirror takes advantage of a rear camera to offer a wider field of vision with the flip of a switch. The 2020 Highlander also features available dynamic navigation, providing you with up-to-date mapping data and routes to get to your destination on time. Seamless Everyday Performance The 2020 Toyota Highlander offers performance that makes it fun to drive while delivering a consistently exceptional driving experience. The Highlander's advanced 3.5-liter V-6 engine gets an impressive 295 horsepower and 263 pound-feet of torque, and has a towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds. The available Highlander Hybrid all-wheel drive offers an estimated best-in-class EPA estimated 35 miles per gallon combined. The Toyota New Global Architecture Platform creates smooth handling and a comfortable, confident drive. Available Dynamic Torque Vectoring all-wheel drive improves stability and responsiveness. All-wheel drive models also feature multi-terrain select, with four modes to improve traction in a wide variety of environments: normal, snow, rock & dirt, and mud & sand. Ready to check it out in person? Stop by and visit us at Smart Motors, Wisconsin's Toyota Dealer, to give the 2020 Highlander a test drive today. Image used with permission via toyota.com / cropped from original

Visiting our local recreation areas is a great way to connect with nature and each other. Whether you prefer the land or water, there is something for everyone near Madison. Read on to learn about several Madison-area parks that are perfect for enjoying the great outdoors. Capital Springs Recreation Area The Capital Springs Recreation Area covers almost 2,500 acres and is a great place to enjoy the outdoors with friends and family. The park is home to an 18-hole disc golf course and six miles of hiking trails. Bicyclists can enjoy the Capital City State Trail. Capital Springs includes a huge off-leash dog park with parking and trails to enjoy with your pup. If you enjoy the water, Lake Waubesa and Mud Lake offer opportunities for boating, canoeing, kayaking, and fishing. In the winter, cross-country skiers can enjoy several groomed trails. If you have family members with disabilities, be sure to check out the Jenni and Kyle Preserve in Capital Springs. The Preserve is a unique area with specially modified play areas, shelters, and trails. The Preserve is one of the few places for those with disabilities to enjoy fishing, thanks to its modified beaches and trails. Capital Springs offers a large number of individual campsites that include electricity. Rustic group campsites for up to 20 people are also available. Pheasant Branch Conservancy With over 160 acres of natural grasslands, the Pheasant Branch Conservancy is a great place to enjoy the outdoors with family and friends. The Conservancy includes open water, springs, prairies, and wooded areas. You can take in the many scenic overlooks while walking, hiking, and biking on the unpaved trails found throughout the park. Several trails are groomed in the winter months for cross-country skiing. Thanks to its varied landscapes, the Conservancy is a great place to go birdwatching as well. The Conservancy is dedicated to making the outdoors accessible to all. Those with disabilities can reserve an outdoor, all-terrain wheelchair perfect for taking out on the trails. Many volunteers are on hand to answer questions about the park and its animals. Special educational programs include Conservancy Days (every third Tuesday of the month) and Tunes on Tuesday (featuring local musicians). Lake Kegonsa State Park Lake Kegonsa State Park offers lots of outdoor activities. The park includes 96 family campsites, including two designated for those with disabilities. Group campsites capable of holding up to 20 people are also available. The park's five miles of trails are perfect for hiking or biking. Water activities include kayaking, canoeing, sailing, and fishing. The park includes a designated swimming beach with bathhouse. Those with furry friends can enjoy the trails, camping areas, and special pet swim area. For picnics, check out the five picnic areas, each with its own shelter, sand volleyball pit, and horseshoe area. In the winter months, you can enjoy cross-country skiing, ice fishing on Lake Kegonsa, and sledding. Spending time in nature is good for the body and soul. The next time you need a little nature time, check out the many amenities available at these Madison parks.     “ Sunset at Lake Kegonsa” via Flickr by ofthebeautyallaround. Used with permission via CC BY-SA 2.0 / cropped from original

Toyota created a legendary car in the past that is now making a big comeback this year, and it is the 2020 Toyota GR Supra. True Supra fans may question the new Supra's performance when considering the Supra models of old, but you can rest assured that it has more than earned its sports car stripes. Let's explore some of the key features and specs of the 2020 GR Supra. Did Someone Say Power? One might think that a sports car needs to have V-8 power to stand out from the crowd, but this assumption couldn't be more wrong as the 2020 GR Supra proves with its powerful new engine. A 3.0-liter twin-scroll single turbo DOHC 24-valve inline-6 engine is responsible for propelling this car from zero to 60 in only 4.1 seconds. This is impressive and more readily understood when you learn that this engine produces an incredible 335 horsepower and an even more impressive 365 pound-feet of torque. Power distribution is considered to be just as, if not more, important as the power itself. Toyota addresses this premise with an eight-speed automatic transmission that is anything but ordinary. It is lightweight, compact, strong, and strategically placed with the GR Supra's overall center of gravity in mind. The internal components of this ZV 8HP eight-speed transmission are designed to take that 365 pound-feet of torque and seamlessly transfer it to the rear wheels, sending the maximum amount of power to the road. Yes, you did read that right; the 2020 GR Supra is also rear-wheel-drive, making for the ultimate driving experience. The combination of engine and transmission that Toyota has devised gives the GR Supra acceleration and power you can feel. Performance The 2020 GR Supra is more than just raw power; it has been designed to deliver exceptional performance. For starters, it has been engineered to have an almost perfect weight balance by distributing its weight to all the right areas. This has been accomplished by positioning the engine and transmission as low in the car as possible, along with the powertrain being moved as far back as possible. This design effectively keeps the car's center of mass where it should be and drastically improves the GR Supra's performance and handling. Other performance-based engineering that has gone into the GR Supra includes a wide platform chassis, adaptive variable suspension, available Brembo brakes, forged alloy wheels, and an electronically controlled rear differential. You can own the road in the 2020 GR Supra. Interior Design and Tech The interior of the GR Supra is designed with the driver as the focus with sports seats that are deeply bolstered, console-mounted knee padding, an 8.8-inch digital driver's display, a head-up display, a sport steering wheel, a Supra Command dial, Supra Connect, and Qi-compatible wireless charging, just to name a few of its great amenities. This sports car is loaded with modern conveniences, and don't forget about the 10 cubic feet of cargo space in the trunk. This space may not be huge, but it makes the Supra perfect for a weekend getaway. Stop by your local Toyota dealer today and learn more about the 2020 Toyota GR Supra. Image used with permission via toyota.com / cropped from original

Getting outdoors to go camping makes for an awesome weekend getaway. There are some vast camping areas where you can enjoy tent, trailer, or RV camping near Madison, Wisconsin. Let's explore a few of the best places you can camp out this weekend in the local area. 1. Mendota County Park Camping in Mendota County Park is an enjoyable experience for the whole family. You will find that this park has a 5-unit boat camping area and a 30-unit campground. Every campsite has a 30-amp electrical hookup, but you would need to supply an extension cord for hooking up an RV. Campers have access to amenities such as bathrooms, showers, an unsupervised swimming area with an accessible swimming ramp, two shelter facilities, play equipment, volleyball courts, and a shallow launch. The launch is suitable for canoes, small boats, and kayaks. Mendota County Park has something for all ages and you can make reservations. Book your next weekend excursion at Mendota County Park. 2. Crystal Lake RV Resort and Campground If you're searching for a memorable camping experience that has more to offer than you could imagine, Crystal Lake RV Resort and Campground is the place for you. You can choose to stay in the on-site rentals that include cabins, an A-frame, and yurts, or you can reserve a seasonal site. If you're looking to camp, there are overnight RV sites and rustic tent campsites as well. Activities and events take place throughout the year, such as themed weekends, that will keep you and your family entertained. If that isn't enough, you can go swimming or boating, eat at the restaurant and bar, rent a golf cart or a boat, go fishing, or sit around the fire making s'mores. There are plenty of recreational activities to keep you busy, or you can just sit back and relax, the choice is yours. When planning to visit Crystal Lake RV Resort and Campground, it is always best to book your reservations in advance, as campsites, rentals, and seasonal sites go fast. 3. Viking Village Campground If you're more into "glamping" than rustic tent camping, Viking Village Campground is where you want to go. Though tent camping isn't permitted by itself, you can use a tent along with a camper. There are no pull-through campsites, and only one vehicle is allowed per site unless others are approved at the office. You may also have a boat if room permits. The campground offers 71 campsites, and it is located in the majestic countryside that surrounds Stoughton, Wisconsin. Playing some challenging golf courses and access to four of Wisconsin's most beautiful lakes are just a couple of the varied recreational activities you will have access to while on-site. You and your family are sure to enjoy your stay at this outdoor haven. These are just three of the many places you can camp near Madison, Wisconsin. Check out these locations or find the perfect place for you and your family in the surrounding area. There's a whole outdoor world to explore in Madison, so get out there and find the best spot to set up camp. Image via Pixabay by Pexels. Used with permission via Pixabay License / cropped from original

"What is a safe car for my teen driver?" With so many choices out there, parents can become a bit overwhelmed when it comes time to choose a vehicle for their teenager. Whether you're buying new or used, critical factors when making a decision of such magnitude are price, efficiency, and safety. This is where the 2020 Toyota Prius comes into play, as it is affordable, the epitome of efficiency, and one of the safest sedans on the road today. Let's take a closer look at what makes the Prius a good car, and suitable for your teen driver. Affordability The 2020 Toyota Prius isn't the most expensive vehicle on the market, but it's not the cheapest either with a starting MSRP of $24,325. Though you may not want to spend this much on a car for your teen driver, you will be getting more bang for your buck with the Prius than any other sedan available. It's worth every penny you spend and returns it to you in the form of safety and fuel efficiency. Efficiency When you hear the word hybrid, the first vehicle you think of is most likely the Prius. With the 2020 year model in play, Toyota's beloved hybrid now has four generations under its belt. Toyota must have known that it was starting a revolution of highly efficient cars when it first introduced it, and it still stands as one of the most economical automobiles to ever be created. The 2020 Prius can get up to 58 mpg in the city and 53 mpg on the highway, so you don't have to line your teen driver's pockets with gas money every week. Toyota Prius Safety Features The safety of your teen driver is of the utmost importance and Toyota does its best to set your mind at ease when they're behind the wheel of the Prius. It can help reduce the anxiety that's inherent with having teen drivers in the family. Federal and independent safety testers alike have ranked it high in regards to its overall safety and its available safety features. The 2020 Prius protects your teen driver with available safety features that include a color head-up display, intelligent clearance sonar with intelligent parking assist, a blind-spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alert, an integrated backup camera, eight air bags, enhanced vehicle stability control, traction control, anti-lock brakes, electronic brake-force distribution, brake assist, smart stop technology, an adaptive front-lighting system, and auto-leveling headlights. This list of safety features makes for a great start when it comes to keeping your teen safe on the road. Have you added this car to your list of possible vehicles for your teen? If not, keep in mind that it also comes with ToyotaCare at no extra cost. This covers all factory scheduled service for 25,000 miles or up to two years, depending on which comes first. ToyotaCare also gives you three years of 24-hour roadside assistance with the Prius, ensuring that your teen driver is covered no matter the time of day or night. Shop the Toyota Prius in Madison, WI Today Ultimately, it will be up to you to teach your teen the ins and outs of safe driving, but the 2020 Toyota Prius gives them an advantage with all of its available safety features. Stop by Smart Toyota today in Madison, WI and let your teen test drive one. We proudly serve drivers throughout the greater Madison area, including Sun Prairie, Middleton, and beyond. Image used with permission via toyota.com / cropped from original

Breakfast is thought of as the most important meal of the day, and there are plenty of places in Madison, Wisconsin, to satiate your hunger. Everyone has their own unique taste, and with a little exploration of the local area, you're sure to find a favorite breakfast spot. Here are three eateries where you can stop in for a great breakfast. 1. Crema Cafe This restaurant provides a casual atmosphere where you can find unique sandwiches and breakfast dishes. Each menu item uses thoughtfully sourced ingredients that are sure to excite your taste buds. Crema Cafe serves breakfast and lunch, and the menu consists of real fruit smoothies, a full espresso drink menu, and an excellent in-house bakery. For breakfast, you can indulge on menu items such as lake edge eggs and hash, farmer's scramble aged cheddar, breakfast burger housemage, sweet potato hash, blueberry oat pancakes, crema oatmeal baked, along with many more delicious items to choose from. 2. Marigold Kitchen If you're looking for food that is creative and healthy, you have located the right place. Marigold Kitchen is an upbeat urban restaurant situated in the heart of downtown. Founded in 2001, Marigold Kitchen works hard to serve its customers the best possible breakfast, brunch, and lunch in the Madison area. Only the finest local ingredients are used to prepare daily items that include fresh-baked pastries, made from scratch soups, bottomless cups of coffee, and creative espresso drinks. For breakfast, you can choose from different pancakes, French toast, eggs, omelets, Marigold breakfast burritos, chilaquiles, avocado toast, duck confit hash, and much more. 3. Short Stack Eatery No matter what time it is, you can get breakfast at Short Stack Eatery. Grab a menu, get in line, order and pay, choose a table, display your number, sit tight, help yourself to drinks and anything else you may need, and finally, relax so you can enjoy your meal. You will be able to choose from menu items that are categorized as sweet eats, savory eats, and sides. From these three categories, you have the option to order assorted pancakes, pecan streusel French toast, pulled pork and cheesy grits, corned beef hash, Cajun biscuits and gravy, eggs benedict, breakfast burrito, breakfast sandwich, eggs, breakfast potatoes, bacon, ham, three-cheese grits, and other indulgent selections. If you decide to visit the Short Stack Eatery on Saturday or Sunday morning, be prepared to wait. However, everyone in Madison knows, the wait is totally worth it. When you choose this eatery, you're helping to support your local community. These are only a few of the best breakfast eateries to try in the area. Finding a place to grab breakfast in Madison, Wisconsin, is as simple as driving around the block. There's no reason for you to miss the most important meal of the day and there are plenty of places to explore along the way as you search for your favorite breakfast spot. Each of this places is sure to keep you coming back for more. Image via Pixabay by Free-Photos. Used with permission via Pixabay License / cropped from original

If you've got people to haul and adventures to have, there are plenty of reasons why you'll love driving the Toyota 4Runner. It offers everything you could want from a sporty SUV, including a capable performance, roomy cabin and cargo hold, and high-tech connectivity features. Here are four reasons you'll love driving a Toyota 4Runner. 1. Road-Trip-Friendly Features Ready to pack up the entire family and head out on a memory-making quest? The Toyota 4Runner is equally prepared, with roomy seating and a cavernous cargo hold. The SR5 and Limited trim models come standard with seating for up to seven passengers. The other 4Runner trim models offer seating for five. The cargo hold is ready for all of your weekend bags and camping gear, with up to 47.2 cubic feet behind the rear seats. Fold the rear seats down, and you can even roll out a couple of sleeping bags in the 4Runner's 89.7 cubic feet of maximum cargo space. 2. Off-Road Adventure With its powerful V-6 and capable performance, the 2020 Toyota 4Runner is ready for action. Every trim model features the same engine: a 4.0-liter V-6 that makes 270 horsepower and 278 pound-feet of torque. The SR5 and Limited trims are available two-wheel drive, but all other 4Runner trim models come standard with trail-ready four-wheel drive. More than just traction-boosting performance, gear, though, the 4Runner comes standard with an impressive range of performance features. Skid plates protect this SUV's undercarriage from the elements. Foglights cut through the gloom when you're traveling off-grid. The trick power-sliding rear window gives your road trips an extra-rugged feel. The TRD Off-Road trim model adds even more trail-ready features. The locking rear differential increases precision on rocky or otherwise complicated terrain. Use the Multi-Terrain Select settings for enhanced performance in different off-road settings. If you've got mountains to scale, the crawl control function comes in handy. 3. All the Latest in Smartphone Connectivity These days, you can't escape your smartphone — and you probably don't even want to. Luckily, the 4Runner makes it easy to stay safely connected. New for 2020, a cutting-edge infotainment system includes Android Auto and Apple CarPlay smartphone integration. Use these features to access smartphone apps from the 4Runner's central touch screen. You can even press a button on the steering wheel and call up your phone's sophisticated voice controls, making it even easier to stay focused on the road ahead. 4. Safety Comes Standard Every Toyota 4Runner trim model comes standard with the Toyota Safety Sense bundle of safety aids. The pre-collision system with pedestrian detection has the potential to pull you up short of danger. Other standard features include lane departure warning and automatic high beams. The adaptive cruise control system automatically adjusts your speed according to traffic flow, helping you remain a safe distance from the vehicle in front of you. The Toyota 4Runner is an excellent choice for a wide range of drivers, especially those who crave off-road performance and a family-friendly cabin. But this SUV also puts a major emphasis on technology, giving you all the latest in infotainment and safety aids. You'll love driving the 4Runner because it's the total package. Image used with permission via toyota.com / cropped from original