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A look at the stunning 2020 Toyota Supra GR.

The 2020 Toyota GR Supra Brings Power and Beauty Together

With such confident looks, it's no wonder the 2020 Toyota GR Supra continues to make headlines ahead of its fifth-generation run. After a 21-year hiatus, the two-door coupe returns to the stage with plenty of sporty panache and unwavering fortitude. Here's a look at the all-new Toyota GR Supra and how it effectively blends beauty and power into one exceptional package. Inspiration From the Past The first Supra appeared more than 40 years ago. Known as the A40, this model along with the 1980s-inspired A60, served as starting points for the next level of Supra blueprints. In fact, the 2020 edition features a turbocharged engine, an element first introduced in the third-gen A70. Meanwhile, a rear spoiler with protruding wing carries over from the fourth-gen A80. The GR Supra also builds on styling cues found on the Toyota FT-1 Concept Car, the most notable being a double-bubble roof line. more A Fearless Facade The 2020 GR Supra comes in three dapper trims: the 3.0, 3.0 Premium, and Launch Edition. The third in line is limited to 1,500 models and offers exclusive matte-black wheels and red mirror caps. It's also available in three exclusive dual-tone paints, including Absolute Zero White, Nocturnal Black, and Renaissance Red 2.0. Eight additional shades, including Downshift Blue and Nitro Yellow, are expected to drop this fall. Chief Supra engineer Tetsuya Tada also had a good idea of which elements would make his latest creation shine. Aside from the bold color choices, you'll notice innovative features such as a wide front grille with triple-niche design and flowing hood with dual air ducts. The front also straps in a pair of slender, jewel-like LED headlights, while the rear opts for a flared spoiler and sharp overhangs. Rounding out this unique ensemble is a fluid fastback roof and signature two-door setup. Spunky Engine Specs The GR Supra runs with a 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine and a twin-scroll turbocharger. Combined with an automatic transmission, this coupe earns 335 horsepower and 365 pound-feet of torque. It also reaches a top speed of 155 mph with an acceleration rate of 0 to 60 mph in 4.1 seconds. Want a throttle uplift? Sport-Mode comes standard to give you more of an energetic feel right from the get-go. The engineering team also placed the engine further back and in a lower position than before. What this does is bring the weight distribution to a balanced 50/50 percentage. Toss in an adaptive suspension and Michelin Pilot Super Sport tires, and you have the right equipment to easily dominate alternating terrain. A Modern Interior Finish Inside the 2020 Toyota GR Supra is a lavish setup with all the bells and whistles. A three-spoke steering wheel offers convenient audio and phone controls, while a gorgeous pair of Alcantara seats let you find the ideal fit for your frame via power-adjustable settings. And resting at the center of it all? An iDrive infotainment system with 6.5- or 8.8-inch touch screen. The 3.0 Premium further slips in leather-trimmed seats, while the Launch Edition adds a unique number badge and the signature of Toyota CEO Akio Toyoda. An alluring design. A dedicated powertrain. You won't find one without the other in the all-new 2020 Toyota GR Supra. If you want to find more updates or get notified when they become available, contact your friends at Smart Motors Toyota and let the pros keep you informed. Image used with permission via toyota.com / cropped from original

food truck in madison

4 of The Best Food Trucks You Have to Try in Madison!

You see food trucks on the streets wherever you go, but for some reason, maybe you've never tried them, even though they smell amazing. With the large number of food truck options in Madison, it's easy to be overwhelmed by where you should start. Don't worry because we've got you covered. Below is a list of food trucks you can't miss. 1. The Rodeo Wagon The Rodeo Wagon is the only rodeo-themed food truck in Madison, and it's a delight to eat their food. It began as a single cart in 2016 on Capital Square and has since grown into a fully-developed catering service. The menu has a little bit of everything, even though they specialize in southern food. Recently, their chefs studied in New Orleans to add new meals to their selection. The Trio Jambalaya, one of their most sought-after dishes, combines their custom seasoning with "hearty andouille sausage, ham, veggies and a trio of peppers over rice, topped with a whole crawfish." more 2. Pickle Jar If you eat at the Pickle Jar, you're in for a treat. All American food makes up the majority of the menu, and if you run into them in the morning, they even have breakfast options. The Pickle Jar prides itself on using locally sourced, sustainable ingredients and making their food from scratch. Their lunch time offering of BBQ meals will have your mouth salivating before you're even able to make a decision about which one you want to eat. If you've never tried the Pickle Jar before, order the Bama Brisket to take your taste buds to new heights. 3. Toast Toast may have a simple name, but don't let that fool you. Paninis are the specialty of this husband-and-wife run food truck, and they are delicious. You may be thinking that paninis aren't enough to build a brand, but you are mistaken. What most people view as a quick and easy sandwich to make, Toast turns into art. The couple has won multiple first place ribbons for their savory paninis, and if that wasn't enough, they're also committed to excellent customer service. You can find Toast near the UW Madison campus. 4. Frannie's Franks You've not had a hotdog until you've eaten one of Frannie's Franks. With a variety of options to put into a bun, Frannie's should always be first on the list when you want some comfort food.  With brats, polish dogs, and huge array of sandwiches, there's something for everyone at Frannie's. After you've chosen your perfect meal, like the Turkey Brat with ketchup, mustard, and onions, you'll be sure to leave with a smile. Food trucks are becoming as common to see as buses around Madison, and we're loving it. The added options they provide are a welcome change from traditional restaurants, and they're perfect for people who need a quick bite on the go. In addition to grabbing some delectable meals, patronizing the food trucks is also a great way to support local businesses, so find one of these trucks today! A01_3939 via Flickr by Nao Okawa. Used with permission via CC BY 2.0 / cropped from original

A silver 2019 Toyota Sequoia.

Highlander vs. Sequoia: Which 2019 SUV Should You Choose?

When you're thinking about getting a new SUV from Toyota, you have several great options to choose from, including the Highlander and Sequoia. The 2019 Toyota Highlander is a midsize SUV with plenty of good looks, and the 2019 Toyota Sequoia is a full-size SUV that comes with all the features you need. Learn more about these two vehicles so you can decide which one is right for you. Exterior Style On the outside, both the Highlander and Sequoia have excellent style and features. The Highlander comes standard with automatic headlights, daytime running lights, LED taillights, heated and power-adjustable side mirrors with built-in turn signal lights, and privacy glass on the rear windows. Choose the Sequoia and you'll enjoy standard features that include heated and power-adjustable side mirrors, a power tilt and slide moonroof, and LED headlights, taillights, fog lamps, and daytime running lights. more Spacious Interior Inside both SUVs, you'll find plenty of room to comfortably fit the entire family. The Highlander and Sequoia both come standard with seating for up to eight people. The Highlander also offers optional seating for seven. Additionally, the Sequoia comes standard with other impressive features that help make the drive more comfortable, including automatic three-zone climate control, easy-clean fabric seats, and a leather-trimmed steering wheel. Advanced Technology The Toyota Highlander and Sequoia each offer different multimedia systems to help keep everyone entertained on the road. Both vehicles come standard with an infotainment system that includes a 6.1-inch touch-screen display, iPod connectivity, and hands-free calling, phone book access, and music streaming using Siri Eyes Free and Bluetooth. The Highlander also has an available infotainment system with an 8-inch touch-screen display. Additionally, a rear seat entertainment system that includes a 9-inch display, wireless remote, and two wireless headphones is an optional feature on the upper Highlander trim levels and a standard feature on the top-of-the-line Sequoia Limited trim. Power and Performance When you're ready to hit the road, the Highlander and Sequoia offer all the power and performance you need. The Highlander comes standard with a 2.7-liter engine that produces 185 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. It's also available with a 3.5-liter V-6 engine that delivers 295 horsepower and 263 pound-feet of torque or with a hybrid engine. Every Sequoia model comes with a 5.7-liter V-8 engine that offers 381 horsepower and 401 pound-feet of torque. Safety Features When you're searching for an SUV that comes with some of the latest safety features, you'll love what you find inside the 2019 Toyota Highlander and Sequoia. Both vehicles come standard with a rearview camera and Toyota Safety Sense, which includes a pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, dynamic radar cruise control, lane departure alert, and automatic high beams. Additionally, the Sequoia comes standard with a blind spot monitor with lane change assist, rear cross traffic alert, and front and rear parking assist sonar. Now that you know more about the similarities and differences between the 2019 Toyota Highlander and 2019 Toyota Sequoia, when you come in to see us at Smart Motors Toyota you'll have an easier time deciding which SUV is right for you.   “ Image” used with permission via toyota.com / cropped from original

A beautiful day by the lake in Madison, WI.

5 Parks in Madison, WI You Cannot Miss This Spring

When the weather warms up and winter gives way to spring, it's time to get outside and start enjoying the pleasant temperatures. Fortunately, you'll find several places around Madison, Wisconsin, where you can appreciate the great outdoors. When you're ready to get back outside, make plans to check out one of these can't-miss Madison parks. more Olin Park Located on the shores of Lake Monona, Olin Park offers an excellent variety of activities for everyone to enjoy. If you're looking to play some sports, the park has a baseball diamond and soccer field. You can take a stroll on the walking paths, go for a jog on the trail, ride your bike around the park, or let the kids burn some energy at the park's playground. Or, if you're interested in doing nothing at all, you can simply relax on the beach. The park also offers one of the best views of downtown Madison. Owen Conservation Park Owen Conservation Park is a 96-acre park that's perched on a hilltop overlooking Madison's west side. It was once the farm of University of Wisconsin professor Edward T. Owen. However, today oak savannas and prairies have started to reclaim the land. As you head out on the 3 miles of trails in the park, you'll enjoy an ever-changing landscape of shaded forests and open fields filled with wildflowers. You can even stop by the park's ponds to see what type of wildlife you can spot. Westmorland Park Westmorland Park is a neighborhood park with several interesting activities to enjoy. You can play a game at the tennis courts, basketball court, volleyball court, or softball field. Kids love the large playground in the park, and the rock garden is a fun place to take a stroll. The reservable shelter has a working fireplace that brings some rustic charm to any get-together. In the winter, strap on your ice skates and take a spin around the rink. Governor Nelson State Park The 422-acre Governor Nelson State Park sits on the shores of Lake Mendota. On most days, you can enjoy a unique view of the Wisconsin State Capitol from the park. Popular activities available include swimming, boating, fishing, and picnicking. If you travel further into the park, you'll also find more than 8 miles of hiking trails. You can even view some Native American effigy mounds when you head out on the Woodland Trail. Lake Kegonsa State Park Perhaps one of the area's best-kept secrets is Lake Kegonsa State Park. This 342-acre park is situated on Lake Kegonsa and offers swimming, fishing, boating, seasonal camping, hiking, and cross-country skiing. The park also offers sand volleyball courts and horseshoe pits, and you can rent volleyballs and horseshoes at the park office. The playground is always a popular spot with the kids, and the beach is the perfect place to relax in the sun or build a sand castle. No matter what type of outdoor activity you enjoy, you're sure to find it when you check out these parks around Madison this spring.   “ A sunny day in Madison” via Flickr by vlachmore. Used with permission via CC BY 2.0 / cropped from original

A pair of 2019 Toyota Sienna's being packed for a trip.

5 Reasons the 2019 Toyota Sienna Is the Perfect Family Vehicle

When you're thinking about getting a new vehicle that's great for the entire family, consider the 2019 Toyota Sienna. With good looks on the outside and plenty of great features inside, it's easy to see why the Sienna is the perfect option for every family. Bold Exterior The outside of the 2019 Toyota Sienna features a bold and modern look that everyone in the family will enjoy. For convenience, the Sienna comes standard with automatic headlights, power-adjustable side mirrors, and a windshield wiper de-icer. To add a little extra style to the vehicle, it also comes standard with privacy glass on the rear windows, a rear spoiler with LED taillights, and a roof-mounted shark-fin antenna. more Space for Everyone When it comes time to load up the family in your 2019 Sienna, you'll have room for everyone with seating for up to eight people. The versatile interior of the Sienna also makes it easy to carry a combination of large cargo and people. The Split & Stow third-row seat lets you fold half of the seat into the storage area to give you a flat space for cargo while leaving the other half up for a passenger. Plus, thanks to the 40/20/40 split-folding second-row seat, you can create the perfect combination of passenger and cargo space. Great Technology The Toyota Sienna comes with plenty of excellent technology that everyone will enjoy. The Entune 3.0 infotainment system comes standard with a 7-inch touch-screen display, Apple CarPlay, Siri Eyes Free, and Bluetooth wireless technology for voice recognition controls, music streaming, and hands-free calling. Plus, the available dual-view rear seat entertainment system will keep backseat passengers happy with its 16.4-inch display, remote, two wireless headphones, and SD card and HDMI inputs. Excellent Safety Features Since you'll be driving your family in the 2019 Sienna, safety is a top concern. That's why you'll be pleased to know the Sienna comes with plenty of outstanding safety features. In fact, every Sienna comes standard with a rearview camera, tire pressure monitoring system, and Toyota Safety Sense, which includes dynamic radar cruise control, a pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, automatic high beams, and lane departure alert with steering assist. The Sienna also comes available with front and rear parking assist sonar and a blind spot monitor with rear cross traffic alert. Plenty of Power When you're ready to take the family out on a road trip, you know the Toyota Sienna has the power you need to get you to your destination. Every Sienna comes with a 3.5-liter V-6 engine that works with an eight-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission to generate 296 horsepower and 263 pound-feet of torque. Since you never know what type of weather conditions you'll face when you're on the road, the Sienna is also available with all-wheel drive. Whether you're interested in a rear seat entertainment system for the kids or plenty of exciting power for yourself, you'll discover several great features on the 2019 Toyota Sienna that make it the ideal family vehicle for you. Image used with permission via toyota.com / cropped from original

A colorful plate full of decorated Easter cookies.

5 Things to Do During Spring Break in Madison, WI

The snow is starting to melt and the flowers are beginning to bloom. That can only mean one thing: spring break is almost here. Who says you have to go to a tropical location to have fun during spring break? Instead, check out a few of these exciting things to do around Madison, Wisconsin. 1. Cookie Decorating Class If you're looking for something fun and different to do this spring break, consider signing up for the spring cookie decorating class at Cookies by Kate. You'll get to learn all the tips and tricks on making perfectly decorated cookies. During the class, you'll have a chance to decorate eight spring-themed sugar cookies. You'll also get a lovely box to take home your cookies and show off your creations. more 2. Springtime Macarons Class You can really take your baking skills to the next level this spring break when you sign up for the springtime macarons baking class at delecTable. Even though these sweet treats only require four ingredients, the way you put those ingredients together is crucial. Certified Master Baker Punky Egan will walk you through each step of the process so you can learn how to make these delightful French treats. When you're done, you'll get to leave with a chocolate ganache and Swiss meringue buttercream macaron. 3. Girl Wonderful T-Shirt Decorating Whether you have a young girl looking for something to do over spring break or you and your friends want to create something fun, everyone will have a great time at the T-shirt decorating event with Revel and Girl Wonderful. When you sign up, you'll get to choose which Girl Wonderful T-shirt you want to decorate. Options include everything from "Girl Strong" to "Girl President." You can then spend the morning embellishing your shirt with fabric paint, sequins, gems, and other trims. 4. I Love the '90s Bash For the over 21 crowds, the I Love the '90s Bash is a bar crawl that will make you remember why this decade was so awesome. When you sign up, you'll get a color-changing cup to hold your drinks and a slap bracelet that will instantly bring back some of your best childhood memories. On the day of the bash, make sure you dress up in your best '90s gear as you enjoy drink specials at participating bars and partying with the top hits from the '90s. 5. Downtown Madison Spring Wine Walk During the Downtown Madison Spring Wine Walk, you'll have a chance to check out the shops and businesses in downtown Madison as you taste a variety of wines. The event has several sip stops on the walk. Be sure to stop by each one with your commemorative wine glass to sample the wine and see what's available. Plus, don't forget to join the after party for your chance to win some great prizes. Whether you want to make something amazing or have a good time with friends, you'll find something fun to do during spring break when you check out these top events around Madison.   “ Easter Sugar Cookies” via Flickr by JL7978. Used with permission via CC BY-SA 2.0 / cropped from original

3 variations of the 2019 Toyota Yaris.

3 Reasons You'll Love Driving a 2019 Toyota Yaris

Sedans are among the most popular car classes for a good reason. They're easy to drive and feature a surprisingly large amount of interior space. Additionally, these cars are efficient and come loaded with a multitude of exciting features that are sure to excite any kind of driver. While there are quite a few great sedans on the market, the new 2019 Toyota Yaris offers a unique driving experience you won't find anywhere else. Being behind the wheel of this sedan is simply fun and brings joy to every driving experience. Here are three reasons you'll love driving a 2019 Toyota Yaris. more Responsive Performance One of the best aspects of a reliable sedan is drivability, and the Yaris more than delivers on that front. When you look at the tires, you may not imagine it has high grip limits, but the handling is very responsive and fun. Additionally, the steering response itself is notable for being predictable and even entertaining. The engine itself is powerful enough to handle most drives outside of a racetrack. Couple that with its enhanced steering capability, and you can get where you need to go without issue, whether you're in the city or on the highway. Even the brakes are enhanced more than you might think, not only to improve performance but safety as well. Advanced Technology Inside the Yaris, you'll have access to some of the best automotive technology on the market. The dashtop screen allows you to access the advanced infotainment system controlling several of the Yaris' features. If you'd rather not have to deal with a touchscreen, the Yaris also includes a button and knob controller for a classic yet refined analog and digital combination. While the standard brakes are impressive in their own right, the Yaris' technology also extends to quite a few driver assistance features. Among the most impressive is the forward collision warning with automatic braking. With this, the Yaris constantly scans the area in front of you and can apply the brakes automatically if an imminent collision is detected. You can drive with peace of mind like never before. Interior Style and Comfort While the people you pass won't get a good look inside your Yaris, the interior is the aspect you'll deal with the most. Fortunately, the Yaris' interior is remarkably stylish with a stitched leather-look complemented by sleek modern surfaces and designs. Additionally, all the most important features are easily within reach, so the layout is utilitarian as well. The act of driving itself is exceedingly comfortable, thanks to the supportive and soft seats. With good adjustability and high-quality materials, you can drive comfortably, even on trips spanning hours and hours. Road and tire noise is also reduced inside, so you can enjoy a peaceful environment when behind the wheel. You'll find plenty more reasons to love driving the 2019 Toyota Yaris, and they all can be experienced when you get behind the wheel yourself. To see all the latest models, head to Smart Toyota, and explore the best of the best. Image used with permission via toyota.com / cropped from original

A dad having fun with his kids sliding down a snowy hill on an inner-tube.

4 Fun Winter Activities in Madison, WI

Rather than dread the winter weather and stay cooped up inside, get out an enjoy some fun! There are a ton of great options for exciting winter activities in and around Madison, Wisconsin. If the weather is really unbearable, there are also some indoor activities that are just as fun. Here are four winter-friendly activities worth checking out. more Tour Some of Madison's Museums If you're looking for some family fun, the Madison Children's Museum is full of cool exhibits and hands-on learning opportunities for all ages. Check out Stair Trek, their tour of the universe starting from the earth's core and reaching out to the cosmos. Winter Wonder Weeks are a great way to celebrate the season at the museum. The Wisconsin Historical Museum in Madison's Capitol Square is a great place to learn about the area you love. Beginning with the native people groups of Wisconsin and stretching to twentieth-century urbanization, the exhibits tell an enthralling story. Other interesting museums in Madison include the Madison Museum of Contemporary Art, the Chazen Museum of Art, and the Wisconsin Veterans Museum. Go Sledding Various parks around Madison have great sledding hills. Take a snowy day off and do some park hopping looking for the best hill. Bring your own sled, and enjoy the ride. You can even find a guide to the best sledding hills around the area online. Some of the parks even offer concession stands and warming houses so you can recharge for the next winter adventure. Hit the Slopes Winter resorts are readily available in the Madison area and beyond. Just 30 minutes to an hour drive outside of the city in various directions will bring you to many different ski areas. Whether you're an avid skier or snowboarder, or if you're just looking for a place to go tubing, you'll have plenty of great options. Resorts like Devil's Head, Alpine Valley, and Cascade Mountain offer tons of runs for all different skill levels and plenty of rental options for those without their own gear. These places are also great for weekend getaways with lodging on site and nearby, as well as restaurants and relaxation areas. Tyrol Basin and Blackhawk ski area are smaller places for winter sports but offer just as much chance to enjoy slope time. Go Ice Skating Thanks to the cold temperatures in the Madison area, many outdoor parks offer ice skating. Bundle up, put on your skates (or rent a pair) and enjoy some charming outdoor fun. Skating on a frozen pond offers beautiful views that you just can't get at an indoor rink. Because outdoor ice skating rinks need the cooperation of cold temperatures, be sure to double check that a rink is open before attempting to skate. Don't forget to make sure you're behind the wheel of a winter-ready vehicle while enjoying the Wisconsin weather. At Smart Toyota, we have a great selection of new vehicles ready to take on the snow.   “ Snow & Fun” via Flickr by Jean de la Tête. Used with permission via CC BY-ND 2.0 / cropped from original

The plug-in model of a new Toyota Prius.

Explore These Toyota Hybrid Models

When you're looking for fuel efficient, dependable, and environmentally conscious vehicles, Smart Motors Toyota has you covered no matter what kind of lifestyle you live. From compact cars to full-size SUVs, Toyota offers hybrids of all shapes and sizes. Here are five great Toyota hybrids. Prius c The 2019 Toyota Prius c comes in two trim levels, the L and the LE, both featuring a hatchback design. This hybrid model really focuses its design and function around fuel efficiency. Drivers can choose between ECO and EV mode while driving for their preferred efficiency. EV mode allows for fully-electric driving as far as one mile, and ECO mode manages the use of other systems like the A/C to deliver optimal efficiency. more Camry Hybrid If you're looking for a hybrid with a little more space and features, the 2019 Camry Hybrid offers both. This sedan is spacious and comes with top-notch features even at the base trim level. The base, LE trim, comes with an eight-way power driver's seat and a smart key with a push-button start. Upgrade to the SE for a sportier look and some other bonus features or the XLE for the top of the trim levels. XLE drivers will enjoy an 8-inch touch screen with the Entune 3.0 infotainment system. Prius Prime Toyota's 2019 Prius Prime is a hybrid that acts as an electric car. You can charge a Prius Prime at a charging station, but it also takes fuel. Trims include Plus, Premium, and Advanced. This hybrid sedan is seriously advanced with perks like a remote climate control system featured in the base trim level. Step up to the Premium level for several technology upgrades like wireless device charging and an 11.6-in high-definition multimedia display. The top trim adds a head-up display, LED fog and accent lights, and much more. Mirai Want a future vehicle now? The 2019 Toyota Mirai is a fuel cell electric vehicle that is fully powered by hydrogen. This vehicle has no emissions other than water, so it's completely harmonized with the environment. Unfortunately, the Mirai and their filling stations are only currently available in California, but hopefully, they will be expanding soon. The interior is just as impressive as it has capabilities with intelligent touch controls for the infotainment system and climate control plus wireless charging and a fully digital instrument panel. When you're behind the wheel of a Toyota Mirai, you'll feel like you've traveled to the future. Highlander Hybrid With the 2019 Highlander Hybrid, Toyota lets you have your cake and eat it too! You can get all the size and space you want from an SUV without sacrificing efficiency. Available trims include the Hybrid LE, XLE, and Limited. Every trim level includes Toyota's Safety Sense P system, making this an ideal family car. You'll be able to seat up to eight people comfortably in the 2019 Highlander Hybrid, or put all of the seats down and enjoy 83.7 cubic-feet of cargo space. This beast of a hybrid can even tow up to 3,500 pounds! Stop by Smart Toyota and check out our great selection of hybrid Toyota models. Get behind the wheel for a test drive, and you may just find your next car.   “ Toyota Prius Plug-In Hybrid (XW50)” via Flickr by Ya, saya inBaliTimur. Used with permission via CC BY-ND 2.0 / cropped from original

A lady named Pip skiing in the mountains.

4 Best Places to Ski Near Madison, WI

Madison, Wisconsin is a beautiful place to live and visit throughout the year, but during the colder parts of the year, ski enthusiasts love this area for its powdery magic. Here are four of the best places to ski near Madison. Cascade Mountain Head to Cascade Mountain for a family-friendly slope experience. Just under a 45-minute drive north of Madison, this spot has tons of options for winter activities. Kids ski for free, so don't miss this opportunity for savings. With 47 runs and 12 lifts, the whole family will stay well-entertained. Tubing and snowboarding are also options. Stay at one of the nearby hotels or resorts and make a whole weekend of it. At the tech shop on the mountain, you'll find great service, equipment, and you can give your skis some serious care with their tuning service. more Devil's Head For a ski-loving getaway to remember, Devil's Head resort is open all year and is one of the most popular places for winter sports in the state. Book an overnight package with someone special for a fun and romantic vacation or bring the whole family along. Several restaurants and bars are open regularly at the resort so you can always grab a bite or enjoy some downtime. On-site lodging is available with various room options, or you can rent out a condo for a home away from home. Those who are more daring will love Sidewinder Park, a terrain park on the mountain with more than 35 features and several 500 vertical feet jumps. Those who are newer to skiing can benefit from the lessons offered through the resort's ski and ride school. Lessons are available for adults and children alike. Tyrol Basin Another great option for skiers near Madison is Tyrol Basin Ski and Snowboard Area, just 40 minutes west of Madison. Exciting events take place at Tyrol Basin throughout the year, like their annual Brewfest and many different ski and snowboard races. Enter a race for a fun challenge or just enjoy the show as a spectator. Lessons are available if you want to gain confidence on your skis, and you can get season passes so the slopes are always ready for you. Equipment rentals are affordable, so don't be afraid if you're totally new to the sport. Kids five and under always ski for free, and there are many other pricing specials available, so be sure to check their website when planning a visit. Alpine Valley A little further from Madison, Alpine Valley Ski Resort is about an hour drive east toward Lake Michigan. Here you'll find a fully loaded resort for fun throughout the year. Their beautiful alpine lodge is just at the base of the mountain, offering beautiful views of the slopes and easy access for days full of skiing. This resort is great for adult trips and family vacations and anyone who loves to ski. Don't stay trapped inside all winter just because it's cold, get out and enjoy the snow! Once you're tearing up the slopes, you'll forget all about the shorter days and low temperatures.   “ Pip Skiing” via Flickr by Mr Moss. Used with permission via CC BY 2.0 / cropped from original

A couple standing outside their 2019 Toyota CH-R.

The C-HR: Why It's a Compact Crossover Worth Considering

If you're looking a new crossover SUV that's stylish, sleek, and sporty, give the 2019 Toyota C-HR a look. This compact SUV combines an exciting interior with invigorating performance and top-of-the-line technology. Here are just a few reasons to give the C-HR a test drive on your next trip to a dealership. Bold Exterior One look at the C-HR and you'll instantly understand what the engineers were going for: a bold, sporty exterior where every detail was considered and focused on. Every bevel and curve of the 2019 C-HR's body give the SUV a sleek and speedy look. Even the rims feature a chiseled razor design that complements the overall sharpness of the body. The 18-inch alloy wheels are light and nimble but don't disappoint when it comes to delivering power to the pavement. more Exhilarating Performance It's not just about looks with the new C-HR. The bold attitude is carried over to the drivetrain, which delivers an exciting performance each time you get behind the wheel. The 144-horsepower engine delivers plenty of power for the compact body, and the auto/manual transmission allows you to choose between letting the transmission work automatically or rowing your own gears. There are several considerations to the suspension and tuning that help deliver a more exciting drive. Gas-pressurized shocks, front coil springs, and four-wheel independent suspension deliver a smooth performance regardless of road conditions. Speed-sensitive steering adjusts sensitivity based on how fast you're traveling. Standard Toyota Safety Sense All trim three trim levels on the 2019 Toyota C-HR come with Toyota's suite of driver assistance features. There are different tiers that include different features. The 2019 C-HR comes standard with the TSS-P set of features. This includes forwarding collision and pedestrian detection. Not only does this groundbreaking technology alert you of a potential front-end collision, but TSS-P also alerts you to potential pedestrian collisions. If the system detects an imminent collision, it will automatically apply braking pressure to help reduce damage or injury. Other amazing features on TSS-P consist of automatic high-beams, and lane departure warning with correction assistance. One of the most impressive features included with Toyota Safety Sense is dynamic cruise control, which alters the speed of your cruising to maintain a safe distance between you and the vehicle in front of you. Luxurious Interior With an exterior like the C-HR, you need an interior to match it. Thankfully, this 2019 compact SUV doesn't disappoint. The satin-plated shifting knob and available leather upholstery add a luxurious flair to the interior, and dual-zone climate control keeps everyone comfortable on longer excursions. Vivid Entertainment Tech You'll find that the 2019 C-HR includes plenty of great entertainment technology, as well. The Entune audio system is equipped with excellent features, such as wireless phone connectivity and Apple CarPlay compatibility. There's so much to love about the new Toyota C-HR. The unique exterior styling makes it a superb choice for anyone looking to stand out from the crowd and arrive in style. Take a test drive today or view our amazing online inventory at Smart Motors Toyota in Madison, WI. Image used with permission via toyota.com / cropped from original

A lovely display with flowers and a heart tied with string bearing a note saying 'i love you'.

Romantic Madison, WI Places for Valentine Getaways 2019

With Valentine's Day just around the corner, it's important to have your romantic getaway planned well in advance. Soon, all of the top spots will be booked, and you definitely don't want to be scrambling at the last minute to book a reservation. If you're now looking to make reservations to celebrate this day of love, here are a few of the top spots around Madison, Wisconsin. more Get Your Hotel Squared Away ASAP When it comes to hotel reservations around Valentine's Day, sooner is always better than later. There are several romantic hotels around, so try to book one of these if you can. The Buckingham Inn in Madison is the perfect quiet and romantic spot to center your Valentine's holiday around. Each suite features some of the most sought-after amenities, including luxury towels and toiletries, local chocolates, bathrobes, an HDTV, and a large bathtub. These rooms are perfect for snuggling up together on a romantic vacation. Every morning, you'll experience a fresh, delicious homemade breakfast that includes yogurt, fruit, and a sweet or savory entree. For an even more pastoral-feeling approach to your romantic getaway, check in at the Speckled Hen Inn. Your window will greet you with the pleasant sights of nature, which usually entails snow around February, and you may even see some farm animals. The Valentine's Day breakfast special includes a delicious three-course breakfast from the dates of February 8-18. Each room includes complimentary snacks and cotton bath linens, and some rooms have large tubs with jets. Restaurant Reservations If you don't need a hotel, that's excellent news. However, there are still a few things that need to be handled in order to pull off the perfect Valentine's Day. Making your restaurant reservations well ahead of time is sage advice. Take care of it now, and you won't have to sweat about it later. Here are a few restaurant ideas to complement your romantic evening. Chez Nanou is a delightful and romantic French Bistro. Here you'll be served a menu created by two amazing French chefs. All the food is excellent and authentic. If available, try the beef bourguignon or cassolettes gratinees. End your meal with some amazing lavender creme brulee. Anyone looking to break out of the typical mold of a romantic French restaurant or upscale steakhouse will want to make their way over to Forequarter. This rustic eatery uses fresh, local ingredients to prepare unique dishes that will create a lasting memory on your palate. The mustard ricotta dumplings with shiitake mushroom broth are flavorful and irresistible. Plan a Trip to the Spa Treat yourselves to a relaxing massage or spa treatment. There are several area spas to choose from, but Rejuvenation Spa is one of the top options. It offers plenty of spa treatments in your choice of duration, including standard massages, Aveda stone fusion massages, chakra massages, and Thai massages. The earlier you plan your Valentine's Day activities, the more fun you'll have and the less stress you'll encounter when trying to find a reservation. Remember these spots once you start making plans. Image via pixabay by pixel2013. Used with permission via Pixabay License / cropped from original

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