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The 2020 Toyota Avalon seeks to revitalize the large sedan class. Through impressive power levels, style, and lists of exciting features, the new Avalon is the pinnacle all other sedans should aspire to. Here's a look at what the 2020 Avalon has to offer you: Unparalleled Style The first thing you may notice about the 2020 Toyota Avalon is its surprisingly sharp style. Its exterior appearance does a fantastic job of updating the traditional sedan style and bringing it to the modern era. From its blacked-out front fascia full of sharp, modernist angles to the available chrome-tipped quadruple exhaust in the rear, the Avalon doesn't shy away from making a statement on the road. As you move up through the Avalon's list of trims — the XLE, Limited, XSE, TRD, and Touring — you'll get more access to more exterior features. The Touring's sequential turn signals are Vegas-inspired eye-catchers. The sporty TRD's 19-inch allow wheels and red-painted brake calipers give the Avalon a racer's atmosphere. Whichever trim you choose, you can expect a sedan dripping in expertly engineering style. more Smart Tech To bring the sedan into the 2020s, Toyota has given each model access to top-notch tech. Every Avalon comes standard with a center-stack-mounted touch screen that turns your sedan into another smart device at your disposal. Connect your phone to your Avalon's screen to play your favorite podcasts and albums, access navigation, have your text messages read aloud to you, and more, using only your voice to command it. The Avalon experience continues even when you're out of the vehicle. You can connect a compatible smartwatch to your Toyota to locate your Avalon, lock its doors, and start its engine to ready the cabin on a cold winter morning. Move over, James Bond. Thrilling Power Other sedans often make you work your way through trim levels to access powerful engines. That isn't so with the 2020 Avalon. Every gasoline-exclusive 2020 Avalon punches out 301 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque with a 3.5-liter V-6 engine. There is also a hybridized Avalon available that produces a city-ready combined 215 horsepower through a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and electric motor combo. What changes as you move through the trims is the Avalon's access to performance-enhancing upgrades. For the most able-bodied sedan, opt for the all-new Avalon TRD trim, which gives you enhanced brakes, a sport-tuned suspension, paddle shifters, and more. Interior Allure Luxury-minded sedan drivers will do well with the Avalon Touring. A quick scan around the cabin reveals real wood inlays, unique two-tone stitching on leather-trimmed upholstery with microsuede inserts, and aluminum accents. The cockpit's elegantly chiseled design completes the Avalon's premium atmosphere and puts everything you need to make the most of your travels within ergonomic reach. In short, the Avalon's personality was designed with one thing in mind — to impress you and anyone you invite into your sedan. Come experience the 2020 Toyota Avalon firsthand at Smart Toyota in Madison, Wisconsin. Once you see and feel what the Avalon has to offer, it's difficult to settle for anything less.

With so many people worried about being in public, it's a wonder that more people haven't picked up hiking. If you're looking for a great hiking trail in the Madison, Wisconsin, area, here are a few you should check out. Picnic Point Marsh Loop Trail The 2-mile Picnic Point Marsh Loop Trail is an easy hike right in Madison's Shorewood Hills. This trail is flanked nearly completely by Lake Mendota, offering great lakeside views to one side and forest on the other. Its location makes it one of the more popular hikes in the city, but if you avoid peak times, it can be a great escape. Since it's a loop trail with only an 88-foot elevation gain, this is a great trail for beginners and families. more Devil's Lake Segment of the Ice Age National Scenic Trail On the other side of the hiking difficulty spectrum, the Ice Age National Scenic Trail will make you work for your progress. The entire trail is 1,200 miles long, but if you're looking for a good section hike near Madison, check out the Devil's Lake Segment. This part of the greater trail is 13 miles long, beginning near the intersection of County Highway DL and 113 and ending at the southern border of Parfrey's Glen State Natural Area. With an elevation gain of nearly 2,000 feet, you'll want to bring out the hiking boots for this trek. UW-Madison Arboretum Trails If you have an ecological and zoological interest in hiking, head to the University of Wisconsin-Madison Arboretum. Over 17 miles of trails in this protected area will take you through a wildly interesting display of Wisconsin's many ecosystems and terrains, from prairies and wetlands to savannas and woodlands. The trails are made up of fairly easy-going footpaths and boardwalks that allow visitors to immerse themselves in Wisconsin's natural environments. Holy Wisdom Monastery Trails That's right; the Holy Wisdom Monastery near the northwest shore of Lake Mendota is a worthy hiking destination. The monastery has a focus on natural preservation, which has left visitors with about 4 miles of trails to walk. These nature trails are great for the leisurely hiker looking for a bit of serenity away from the city. Lake Monona Loop Also known as the Capital City Trail, Lake Monona Loop is 13.8 miles long and right in Madison's backyard. As its name suggest, the trail loops around Lake Monona in downtown Madison, offering great cityscape and waterfront views. If you're looking for a paved path to get in a good trail run, the Lake Monona Loop is a great option. With the lake to one side and beautiful residences on the other, this loop is the perfect city-bound trail. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or you just want to get out of the house for a little while, each of these Madison-area hikes is well worth the visit. Cross each off your hiking bucket list to start experiencing everything Wisconsin's natural beauty has to offer. Image by Yinan Chen from Pixabay

Oh, the horror! On a brutally steamy summer day, you leave the cool confines of your workplace and make the long, sweltering walk across a shoe-meltingly hot parking lot. You open your car door and the blast of heat that emanates forth nearly knocks you out. You pause for a moment and contemplate just how toasty your seat is, not to mention your steering wheel. With a bit of trepidation, you take the plunge and inch into the vehicle. Hot! Hot! Hot! No worries, though. You know your air conditioner will kick in in no time. You crack your window to allow the heat an escape route and wait. And wait. You hold your hand near the air vent questioningly as sweat starts to form on your brow. Why isn’t there cool air flowing? You turn some knobs and flick some switches, and still nothing. The slowly awakening horror is suddenly upon you. THE A/C IS BROKEN!!! Is this an unavoidable cosmic joke, or could you have taken some preventative measures to help assure this didn’t happen? Jim Ward, Service Manager at Smart Motors in Madison, says there are many steps one can take to avoid such a sticky situation. “Wisconsinites know how important it is to winterize their vehicles, but often they neglect to ‘summerize’ them, too,” Ward says. “While some things can easily be done by the owner, there are also somewhere a service professional comes in handy.” more Ward says it is wise to have a service technician thoroughly inspect your vehicle’s HVAC (heating, ventilating, and air conditioning) system at least once a year. Often you can request this service in conjunction with another service such as an oil change. Typical A/C service consists of the following steps: A visual inspection of hoses, lines, seals, and other components for leaks as well as inspect ing the drive belt for cracks or damage. A check of pressures to test operation, refrigerant charge, and outlet temperatures. If the system is found to be low on refrigerant, a leak test is performed to find the source of the leak. Keep in mind that if your vehicle is leaking refrigerant, it is damaging the ozone layer. A/C service should also include a check of the compressor’s drive belt and tension. These measures should be enough to get you comfortably through the heat, but Ward says his team is trained to offer additional measures that will help your car stave off the heat of the street. Additional procedures that either the vehicle owner or service technician can perform are: Check the level and strength of the coolant. A low coolant level may allow your engine to overheat. Make sure the coolant reservoir is filled to the proper level. Wait until the engine has cooled to check the level inside the radiator. If low, add a 50/50 mixture of the specified coolant and water. Make sure the cooling fan works. The electric cooling fan should come on when the air conditioner is turn ed on to MAX. No fan may mean a defective fan motor, relay, or electrical problem. Battery evaluation. Batteries are lasting longer than they used to but the key with a battery evaluation is in the testing which gives both the available cold-cranking amps vs. what the battery is rated for and the second is a batt ery health check which indicates potential battery life and can often predict a battery failure before there are symptoms. Hot weather is actually harder on batteries than cold weather because it increases the rate of evaporation of the liqui d electrolyte inside the battery. Change the oil. Replacing old dirty oil with fresh oil can increase the lubrication protection for your engine. Check or replace the windshield wipers. Natural rubber wiper blades have a limited life of a year or less. Sun exposure, extreme heat, and cold all age the rubber and cause it to become hard and brittle. Check t ires. Check the tire for wear, uneven wear, age cracks, or damage. Check the i nflation pressure in all the ti r e s, including the spare. Underinflated tires make the tires run hot and increase the risk of a blowout. Lastly, Ward says there are a few steps that vehicle owners can do themselves to stay cool: Wax the body. Your vehicle’s body should be waxed or sprayed with some type of protectant to help shield the paint from the ultraviolet rays from the sun, and summer smog in urban areas. Keep your cool. Buy a sunshade for the windshield to reflect light so the interior doesn't get so hot if the vehicle is parked in direct sunlight. Also, close the sunroof sunshade, and leave the windows cracked so hot air can escape. This can lighten the cooling load on the air conditioner when the vehicle is first started, and prevent you from getting a hot seat or burning yourself on hot interior surfaces. Protect yourself. Wear a hat and sunscreen, and carry a bottle of water in the car in case you get stuck for a long period of time in traffic or have a break-down on a hot day. Ward says these precautions should be enough to keep you and your vehicle cool. Of course, bad things happen at the absolute worst time, but taking some simple preventative measures should drastically lower the risk of them happening to you. About Smart Motors Smart Motors was founded in 1908 by O.D. Smart and is one of the nation’s oldest automotive dealerships, is the midwest's largest hybrid dealer and Wisconsin’s #1 volume Toyota dealer. Located at 5901 Odana Road, Smart Motors is Wisconsin’s only two-time President’s Cabinet Award recipient from Toyota Motor Sales for superior customer service & sales volume.  For more information visit www.smartmotors.com. Image by Oskars Zvejs from Pixabay

If you love to read or you're looking for a unique gift for a friend or family member, you should visit some bookstores to browse and find interesting material from your favorite authors. Here are some of the best places where you can find your next summer read in Madison, Wisconsin. The Book Deal At The Book Deal, you can find more than 20,000 used books in over 60 genres. It's a great place to find a new book, CD, DVD, graphic novel, or vinyl record at a bargain price. You can turn in your old books for store credit, and they'll come to your home or office and pick up large collections for free. Teachers and other educators get 10% off everything in the store, and you'll get a free book when you sign up for their rewards program. For every book The Book Deal sells, they give one away to a local student. It's their goal to encourage reading and increase literacy by making books affordable for everyone. They're open for appointments Thursday through Saturday from noon to 4 p.m., and you can shop for books online. more Mystery to Me Mystery to Me specializes in mystery novels, but they sell other books as well. If you like mysteries, this store is a great place to visit a book club. The Bilingual Book Club meets on the fourth Thursday of every month at 6 p.m., and it reads and discusses books in English and Spanish in alternating months. The Mystery to Me Book Club happens on the fourth Wednesday of each month at 6 p.m., and it covers mystery books. Mystery to Me also hosts many events with writers and journalists. You can meet some great writers and learn more about writing so that you can start creating your own book. This bookstore is open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m on weekdays. It closes at 5 p.m. on Saturday and at 4 p.m. on Sunday. A Room of One's Own This fun book store offers reading material about everything from antiques to technology to psychology. They also have children's books, graphic novels, textbooks, and study aids for college students, toys, gifts, e-books, and audiobooks. A Room of One's Own donates books to many local organizations that help students, and many book clubs use their convenient, free community room for their meetings. You can place orders online and then pick up your books any day between noon and 4 p.m. 20th Century Books At 20th Century Books, you can find new and used comic books, science fiction, mystery, fantasy, and more. You can also buy their books online. This book store is open from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and it opens at noon on Sunday. Reading a great book is a fun way for you to learn new things and use your imagination to explore new worlds. No matter which genre you prefer, you can find a fascinating read at one of these excellent stores. Image by Foundry Co from Pixabay

The 2020 Toyota C-HR compact crossover SUV is ideal for commuting, and its unique look makes it easy to spot in parking lots. It has a variety of appealing features to make trips more fun for drivers and passengers, and you can choose LE, XLE, or Limited trim levels. Keep reading to learn more about this attractive, affordable vehicle's coolest characteristics. A Sporty Style The 2020 C-HR has a sporty, agile look and LED headlights that curve around the sides of the hood. The thin upper grille has a chrome Toyota emblem in the center, and the lower grille is large and angular. There's also a rear spoiler, aerodynamic underbody panels, 17-inch wheels, a rear windshield wiper, and heated power side mirrors. C-HR stands for Coupe High-Rider, and the subtle rear door handles next to the roof make it look like a coupe. You can add puddle lights, power-folding side mirrors, automatic high beams, rain-sensing windshield wipers, 18-inch wheels, and fog lights. You can also choose a black or white roof with many body colors. The optional adaptive front lighting system points the headlights where you need them to improve visibility when you travel on hills or around turns. more A Luxurious Interior The interior is comfortable, and it comes with plenty of impressive features. You'll get dual-zone automatic climate control, navigation, an 8-inch touch screen, voice recognition, a 12-volt power outlet, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, a cargo cover, and an auto-dimming rearview mirror. Other standard features include keyless entry, SiriusXM satellite radio, folding rear seats, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and a 4.2-inch driver information display. You can select push-button start, an eight-way power driver's seat, and heated leather front seats. With the XLE, a black interior with blue accents that wrap around the dashboard and the doors is available. Outstanding Performance This SUV's 2.0-liter, four-cylinder engine offers 144 horsepower and 139 pound-feet of torque. It comes with front-wheel drive, power steering, and an independent suspension for a smooth, maneuverable ride. The continuously variable automatic transmission has Normal, Sport, and ECO driving modes, and the C-HR gets 27 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway. Excellent Safety The 2020 Toyota C-HR's safety and driver assistance features will make driving less stressful and help you protect your passengers. This SUV comes with lane departure warning, a rearview camera, lane-keeping assistance, forward collision warning, adaptive cruise control, pedestrian detection, hill start assistance, automatic emergency braking, and advanced front airbags that activate with different levels of force depending on the severity of an accident. Stability control, traction control, a security system with an engine immobilizer, and free maintenance and roadside assistance for two years or 25,000 miles are standard as well. Blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert is optional. To learn more about the C-HR and take it for a test drive, visit Smart Toyota. We have an extensive inventory, and we're happy to answer all of your questions. Come see us Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., Friday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., or Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Madison, Wisconsin, has a variety of delicious coffee shops where you can grab a quick snack, relax with friends, or get some work done on your laptop. Keep reading to learn about some of Madison's favorite coffee shops. Indie Coffee Time Magazine called Indie Coffee one of the best coffee shops in the United States in 2015, and it's a popular place for delicious teas, lattes with nondairy options, drip coffee, and more. Their coffees are made to order by expert baristas, and the collection of artwork on the walls salutes Madison's independent music scene. There's a spacious back patio, and Indie Coffee's excellent waffles come with a variety of toppings, including chocolate chips, strawberries, and whipped cream. They make granola, muffins, croissants, and bread fresh every day, and they offer a variety of local microbrews for people who don't feel like coffee or tea. This shop is open every day from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. more Michelangelo's Coffee House Michelangelo's Coffee House makes quality coffee its top priority, and it's a comfortable place to relax. It buys small batches of beans from independent farmers and it makes its own peanut butter bars. There's also a variety of delicious sandwiches and desserts. Michelangelo's Coffee House is open every day from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m., so it's a great place to get some caffeine before work or late at night. Ancora Coffee This business in Madison has cafes on University Avenue and King Street, and it offers organic fair-trade coffee and a delicious brunch menu. Try the Mint Cold Brew with mint syrup and a splash of cream or the Blackberry Sage Latte with blackberry syrup, espresso, milk, and sage syrup. The Pistachio Vanilla Zombie has white espresso, vanilla syrup, milk, and pistachio syrup. For breakfast or brunch, you can enjoy the Honey Bacon Biscuit with a fried egg, chives, bacon, cheddar, and Sriracha honey. The Sausage Jalapeno sandwich comes on an English muffin with sausage, a scrambled egg, blueberry jalapeno jam, arugula, and gruyere. Vegetarian sausage is available, and the Strawberry Pecan salad has parmesan cheese, strawberries, pecans, dried cranberries, red onions, and honey balsamic dressing. Ancora Coffee is open from 6:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. on weekdays, and they open at 7 a.m. on weekends. Cool Beans Coffee Cafe This trendy coffee house has a comfortable interior with a fireplace, wood floors, plush chairs, and large windows that provide lots of natural light. There's a children's play area inside and a sandbox outside, so your kids can have fun while you enjoy your coffee. Try the Turtle Mocha with macadamia nut, chocolate, and caramel syrup or the White Cloud with white coffee, white chocolate, macadamia nut, cinnamon, and steamed milk. There's also an espresso shake with milk, whipped cream, ice cream, and espresso. Cool Beans Coffee Cafe is open on weekdays from 6:30 a.m. to 9 p.m., and it closes at 3 p.m. on Saturdays. For some great coffee, try out these excellent Madison coffee shops. Whether you want to relax or grab a quick drink, you can find a place for coffee you'll love. Image by Free-Photos from Pixabay

The 2020 Toyota Sequoia three-row SUV is versatile and practical, and it's ideal for a scenic road trip or a family vacation. It's also great for camping and exploring off-road. You can choose SR5, TRD Sport, Limited, Platinum, or TRD Pro trim levels. Keep reading to learn more about this appealing vehicle's best features for traveling. A Distinctive Style The 2020 Sequoia has a boxy profile with curved corners, heated power side mirrors, a sculpted hood, automatic LED headlights, and rectangular upper and lower grilles. It also comes with fog lights, a spoiler, puddle lights, a windshield wiper de-icer, privacy glass, a roof rack, 18-inch wheels, and running boards. Its unique look makes it easy to find in a parking lot, and you can add 20-inch wheels, a power liftgate, and power-folding side mirrors with turn signals. The TRD Pro has large Toyota lettering on the upper grille instead of the Toyota symbol and black aluminum wheels for a rugged appearance. It also has a power rear window and an aluminum skid plate that protects the underside of the vehicle from off-road obstacles. more Great Performance This SUV's speed-sensing power steering makes maneuvering at any velocity easy. It can navigate tough trails, and the independent suspension creates a smooth, comfortable ride. The 5.7-liter V-8 engine gives 381 horsepower and 401 pound-feet of torque. It uses a six-speed automatic transmission with tow/haul and manual modes, and it can pull up to 7400 pounds. Four-wheel drive is available, and the TRD Sport has performance-tuned shocks. Choose the Platinum for an adaptive variable suspension that responds to changing conditions. This trim also comes with Comfort, Sport, and Normal driving modes. A Luxurious Interior The Sequoia can carry eight people, and it has a variety of luxurious features. The dashboard has plenty of user-friendly buttons and knobs, and folding the second- and third-row seats will give you up to 120.1 cubic feet of cargo space. This vehicle comes with three-zone climate control, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, Amazon Alexa, a 7-inch touch screen, sunshades for the rear windows and the power moonroof, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and 16 cup holders. You'll also get a power driver's seat, keyless entry, two USB ports, push-button start, and a 4.2-inch driver information display. Several driver assistance features make long trips easier, including lane departure alert, adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, pedestrian detection, lane change assistance, blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, braking assistance, front and rear sonar parking assistance, and trailer sway control. You can add a 9-inch rear entertainment system with a Blu-ray player, a remote, two sets of wireless headphones, and a 120-volt power outlet. Other options include voice recognition, a 14-speaker sound system with a subwoofer and an amplifier, heated and cooled leather front seats, and navigation. The Platinum trim level comes with attractive wood accents and memory settings for the front seats. To learn more about the 2020 Sequoia and try it for yourself, visit Smart Toyota. We offer an extensive inventory, and we can help you decide which vehicle is right for you.

Madison is known for a few key things; it's the capital city of Wisconsin and is the home of the University of Wisconsin. However, it's also a place that houses a number of unique and fascinating attractions. Check out these unusual spots to learn more about the city and its history. Lamp House The Robert M. Lamp House, also known as Lamp House, is a unique structure in the heart of the city's downtown area. Many Madison residents don't realize that a Frank Lloyd Wright-designed home sits in their midst, as it's one of Wright's forgotten designs. If you can find it, you'll see some of the hallmarks of the famed architect's traditional style. It stands out in the neighborhood because of its blocky style and bold red accents that surround the windows. The home isn't open to visitors, although you can drive or walk by to see it in person. more L.R. Ingersoll Physics Museum The L.R. Ingersoll Physics Museum is located on the campus of the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Two science professors at the university came up with the idea for the museum in the early 20th century, and when it opened in 1918 it was the first museum in the country to focus specifically on physics. It is named for one of its founding professors, Leonard R. Ingersoll, and showcases exhibits designed by the faculty and constructed by the students in the school's science department. Each exhibit provides a hands-on experience of a physical concept, so it's appealing to both children and adults. Admission is free and guided tours are available for groups. Elvis Karate Fight Plaque The Elvis Karate Fight Plaque sits in an area of Madison where “The King” once broke up a fight. After arriving in the city to perform a show, Elvis was being chauffeured in a limousine. At the corner of East Washington Avenue and Highway 51, two men were fighting on the street. Elvis had his driver stop the car and he got out to stop the fight. A bystander recalls that Elvis took a karate stance and threatened to take both of the fighters on, effectively ending the fight. A crowd of fans gathered when news traveled that he was there, and Elvis waved to the crowd and went on his way. Lost City Forest Lost City Forest is also within Madison's city limits, located on the southeast corner of the arboretum on the University of Wisconsin campus. In the 1920s, Madison was growing quickly, resulting in a need for more housing. The Lake Forest Land Company planned to construct a new housing development in this area, only to find that the marshy land was sucking up foundations and other components needed for sturdy homes. The plans were abandoned, leaving behind a forested area in the middle of the city. Both visitors to the city and long-time residents will enjoy spending some time at these unique Madison attractions. This weekend, make a plan to get out and explore the city. Image by Karen Arnold from Pixabay

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. more 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. more 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. more 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. more 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