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There's a lot of buzz circling regarding the release of 2020 vehicles. One particularly bright spot is the 2020 Toyota Highlander. There's been a lot of smoke and mirrors regarding information, however, the picture is becoming clearer. Here is a quick overview of everything we know about the all-new Highlander. Speculation Regarding A Revamp The Highlander has been an excellent full-size SUV. The three rows of seating make it easy and convenient to carry lots of passengers or haul plenty of cargo. An abstract sketch recently released may indicate that the 2020 Highlander is getting a refreshed look for 2020. The marketing department has gone out of its way to give the Highlander an increased presence around where the New York Auto Show will be taking place. That kind of ad spending can only mean one thing. Invasion. Invasion of a whole new look that is. Why It's Time To Upgrade The 2019 Highlander had tons of excellent features, trims, and engine configurations. It has seven unique trim levels and two engine options. Pair that with the wide range of entertainment features incredible safety specifications and you have a very attractive full-size SUV. One reason Toyota may be looking to re-imagine the Highlander is the rise of competition. Several new full-size SUVs have hit the road since the last Highlander redesign. The Atlas by Volkswagen and Ascent by Suburu have disrupted the market quite a bit. Hyundai and Kia also have new third row SUVs and Ford just released a redesigned Explorer. There's too much going on in the three tow SUV world to not make a move. Everything We Know About the 2020 Toyota Highlander Now that we've looked at why it's time for a new Highlander, it's time to unveil everything we know about the all-new 2020 Toyota Highlander. At the end of April, Toyota officially pulled back the curtain on what the new Highlander will bring to the table and the changes are modern, drastic, and far-reaching. The Front of the new Highlander features a sleek and modern honeycomb grille design with thin headlights. The model shown included fog lamps, but we don't know if they'll be available on all trims, or just higher levels. Chrome accents complete the front of the SUV. Along the side, a chiseled body helps bring the Highlander to a more modern point from a design perspective. The rear profile reveals an upper spoiler lip and a smooth overall design. There aren't any hard edges, but the new Highlander doesn't appear to be too soft either. The framework is moving to Toyota's new global system, as many expected it to. Black bodyside cladding and a silver or chrome rock guard help keep the salt and gravel away from vehicles' most vulnerable areas and mechanical components. The 2019 Highlander had 19-inch wheels across the board, while the new release has options for both 18 and 20-inch varieties. At least one engine configuration will offer up 295 horsepower and 263 pound-feet of torque. It will be able to tow up to 5,000 pounds. There's a lot to be excited about in regards to the 2020 Highlander. Connect with Smart Motors Toyota in Madison, WI. for more updates and information regarding its model year release. Image used with permission via toyota.com / cropped from original

Summers in Wisconsin can come and go quickly. It's important to make sure you squeeze the maximum amount of fun out of every opportunity you get. This July, there are dozens of events you can attend to help you achieve your wildest summertime dreams. If you're unsure of just how much is going on in Madison this year, here's a quick guide. 1. Fourth of July Celebration and Festival You can't have a list of the best Fourth of July events without throwing an Independence Day event near the top of the list. Kick off your July with a fun-filled community festival and a fireworks show in the evening. The Monona Community Festival celebrates everything that makes summer a special time of the year. Events and attractions at the festival include arts and crafts tents, carnival games, food and beer tents, live entertainment, and a fireworks display. Those brave enough can enter the wife carrying tournament. There's no better way to start your July then heading over to the Monona Community Festival. 2. Wisconsin Wild Things Camp Those with little ones between the grades of one and three can spend July 8 through 12th at this exciting day camp. If your kids love the outdoors, the Wisconsin Wild Things camp is the perfect experience. Each day they'll explore all kinds of area wildlife from furry critters to tiny insects. This day camp will give them an outlet to explore and give you a little bit of R&R for the week. 3. Concerts at McKee Every third Monday of the month in June through August, you can catch a free concert held at McKee Farms Park. Grab a spot and enjoy exciting live music and munch on your favorite entrees from several local food carts. Slide Food Cart and Taqueria MariMar are both wildly popular options. The picnic begins at five p.m. and music beginning at six. Headliners will hit the stage an hour later at seven p.m.. Admission is free so it's a great way to enjoy all the community has to offer and spend some time in the more tolerable summer evening weather. 4. Two Awesome Art Fairs, One Awesome Day There are two art fairs held in mid-July. If you have the time, try to hit it both the Art Fair on the Square and the Art Fair off the Square (yes, those are the names!). The Art Fair off the Square is held on Martin Luther King Boulevard and features collections from over 140 local artists, designers, craft makers and more. There will be opportunities to purchase food as well. This event is held on July 13th and 14th. The Art Fair on the Square is held on Capitol Square on July 14 and 15th. Madison offers dozens upon dozens of exciting events in July. Some of them are recurring weekly events while others you only have one chance to catch. No matter what you decide to attend this summer, make sure you're getting all the fun and excitement you deserve.   “ Fireworks” via Flickr by bayasaa. Used with permission via CC BY 2.0 / cropped from original

The 2019 Sienna has the graceful design elements of a Toyota coupled with the family-friendly charisma of a minivan. From the tried-and-true powertrain to the flexible seating arrangements, you'd be hard-pressed to find a model more fitting for a road trip. Here's what makes the all-new Toyota Sienna a top choice for families. Exceptional Performance The Sienna runs with a 3.5-liter V-6 engine and eight-speed automatic transmission. This setup, along with a towing prep package, provides just enough oomph for you to haul up to 3,500 pounds. The minivan also gets a respectable highway output. In fact, it earns up to 24 mpg in all-wheel drive and 27 mpg in front-wheel drive. It does so while producing an ultra-low amount of carbon dioxide emissions, which helps you raise your eco-friendly footprint. Cozy Cabin Feel The Toyota Sienna is offered in several attractive trims. The base L and top Limited seat up to seven across three spacious rows. The LE, SE, and XLE, on the other hand, can fit between seven and eight passengers comfortably via a pair of removable captain's chairs in the second row. The LE and XLE also feature an available Auto Access Seat for a distinct versatile finish. It power rotates up to 90 degrees and ensures a smooth and effortless transfer for those who need a little extra help getting in and out. You won't feel cramped in the slightest, no matter which Sienna you choose. Each trim offers more than 60 inches of shoulder room from front to back, plus an additional 150 cubic feet of cargo space behind the front seats. Toss in an adjustable third row and you'll never have to sacrifice passenger comfort for a place to put your luggage. Convenient Accessories The 2019 Sienna comes with a generous supply of functional features. The dual sliding rear doors with available jam protection are equal parts practical and protective, whereas the tilt and telescopic steering column make it easy to adjust the wheel to your ideal height. What about the temperature settings? You can fine-tune these yourself across all three rows thanks to tri-zone climate control and rear HVAC ducts. You can also take advantage of optional doodads such as black roof rails for a secure cargo haul or a power moonroof with slide and tilt capabilities. Or consider splurging on a decked-out multimedia bundle. This includes everything from a 7-inch Entune touch display with smartphone streaming to a Blu-ray entertainment system with 16.4-inch dual monitors and wireless headphones. Five-Star Safety The 2019 Toyota Sienna brings you the best safety features available for a family minivan. Side-curtain airbags ensure full rollover protection across all three rows. The rear child seat anchors are also great for keeping the kids strapped in so they don't shift around during the trip. You'll find advanced features such as pre-collision monitoring and lane departure alert up for grabs. Both come standard as part of the Toyota Safety Sense package. If you're on the search for a family minivan, put your faith in the 2019 Toyota Sienna. From head to toe, this vehicle has all the makings of a trustworthy companion. Image used with permission via toyota.com / cropped from original

We know that Madison always gets compared to Milwaukee, but there's no need for that! Both cities are great in their own right, and you won't struggle to create memorable experiences in each one. Today, we're going to talk about the fun experiences Madison has to offer. 1. Explore a Museum Although Madison isn't huge, it's stuffed full of great museums. Whatever your interests, you'll be able to find one that will satisfy your cultural craving. The Madison Museum of Contemporary Art (MMoCA) is a visitor favorite. The sculpture garden on the roof can't be missed, and they frequently host a variety of events that are open to the public. If you've experienced enough art recently, you may want to try out the Wisconsin Historical Museum or the Geology Museum. The National Mustard Museum is a particularly fun choice. 2. Watch the Badgers If you live in Madison, you know that the UW-Madison Badgers are a big deal and that their games can often turn into an event for the entire day. If braving the crowds to attend the game isn't for you, you may be interested in watching from a bar with other fans. Regent Street is home to many bars that air the Badgers' games, and fans say that the atmosphere can sometimes be even more fun than actually going in person. 3. Attend a Food Festival Madison is well known for its love of food and drink so, of course, it hosts a bunch of festivals that are dedicated to filling people's stomachs. Bratfest, which takes place Memorial Day weekend, can always be counted on to have excellent entertainment and, like you would expect, to sell a ton of brats. If you love beer, Great Taste of the Midwest is the festival for you. Although it's difficult to get tickets, the large selection of craft beers is worth the effort if you do. Another option is Yum Yum Fest, which appeals to upscale foodies and raises money for charity each year. 4. Support the Performing Arts Madison has a robust performing arts community. The Overture Center for the arts hosts 10 different companies alone, and that's not all Madison has to offer. Nationally touring comedians frequent the Comedy on State club, and when famous comedians aren't available, open mic nights on Wednesdays are a fun way to spend an evening. Alternately, if you're not in the mood for jokes, Wednesday evenings during the summers are when the Wisconsin Chamber Orchestra plays concerts on Capitol Square. Attendees are invited to bring picnic blankets and relax while listening to the soothing sounds of a stunning orchestra. This list is just a taste of what Madison has to offer. State Street, the Capitol, and The Majestic Theater are other fabulous options that are worth exploring. Don't miss your chance to see as much of the city as possible. However you spend your time in Madison, you're sure to get a unique experience that you won't soon forget. Street Food Festival via Flickr by StateofIsrael. Used with permission via CC BY-SA 2.0 / cropped from original

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. 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

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." 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

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. 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

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. 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

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. 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

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. 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

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. 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

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. 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