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A white Toyota 4Runner driving thought the mountains.

2019 Toyota Models Ready for Winter Driving

Winter can be tough, especially in the northern parts of the country. Don't be afraid of what the season will bring this year when you get behind the wheel of one of Toyota's well-equipped vehicles. Here are four 2019 Toyota models that are winter ready. 2019 4Runner As Toyota's top off-roading vehicle, the 2019 4Runner is loaded with capabilities that make it totally ready for driving through winter storms and snowy streets. Opt for the TRD Pro trim level for the most capability. Features like the multi-terrain select system give you total control as you take on wet or snowy roads. This system has four different driving modes to choose from; each adjusts the braking pressure and engine throttle for ideal traction in each situation. Mode options go from light to heavy with the turn of a dial. 2019 Highlander The 2019 Toyota Highlander is ideal for winter roads and inclement weather thanks to its available dynamic torque-control all-wheel-drive system. Engine power is perfectly distributed between the front and rear wheels, while braking is distributed between the left and right wheels for total grip and control. Exterior features like puddle lights and automatic high beams light the way as the days get shorter. The available smart entry system will detect when you're approaching the vehicle and turn on puddle lights on the bottom of the side mirrors. Automatic high beams turn off when approaching an oncoming vehicle to keep the dark roads safer. 2019 Sequoia With the space, power, and performance featured in the 2019 Sequoia, you can have peace of mind as you take the entire family out for a drive in the winter. A 5.7-liter V-8 engine gives you 381 horsepower and 401 pound-feet of torque for plenty of power to get through deep snow. Multi-mode four-wheel drive lets you choose among four-wheel drive low and high ranges and two-wheel drive. When you don't need traction, stay in two-wheel drive for better fuel efficiency. When you need to engage the Torsen limited slip differential, turn on four-wheel-drive easily. Bring along up to seven passengers or fold down the rear seats for 120.1 cubic feet of cargo space. You'll even be able to haul your favorite toys through bad weather with 7,400 pounds of towing capacity and trailer sway control. No matter what precious cargo you have on board or in tow, the 2019 Sequoia will keep it safe. 2019 Land Cruiser The 2019 Land Cruiser combines space and off-road capability for a Toyota model that's ready to take everybody out for a winter adventure. A multi-terrain monitor shows your surroundings on a 9-inch navigation screen so you can see any upcoming obstacles. The Cruiser's limited-slip differential sends power to the wheels with the most grip in each situation. Come by Smart Toyota today to see our selection of new Toyota vehicles that are ready to take on the winter weather. Our staff will be happy to show you our most equipped vehicles and get you out for some test drives. Image used with permission via toyota.com / cropped from original

An incredible looking cheese plate.

Experience These Cheese Shops in Madison WI

Wisconsin is a state with plenty to offer for tourists and locals alike. It's the birthplace of Harley Davidson and home to some of the best and most diverse breweries in the country, but nothing symbolizes what the state has to offer better than its famous cheese. With around 60 artisan makers and over 600 different types of cheese, it's an enthusiast's dream. Here are the places around Madison, Wisconsin, where you can get the finest cheese. Fromagination This classic-looking shop with a European feel was opened back in 2007 by a local cheese lover who wanted to showcase the wonderful local cheesemaking traditions. Visitors not only get to fill their bags and stomachs with diverse and incredibly tasty dairy products but are also taken on a journey of discovery. They get to see where and how everything is made but also learn about the people who make all those delicious Midwestern treats. The vast variety of cheese types means that not only is there something here for everyone, but you may also discover new favorites among the cheeses that you haven't tried yet. Fromagination has cheese that's made out of cow, goat, or sheep milk, as well as other varieties such as cheddar cheese or traditional Dutch Gouda cheese. They also haven't forgotten about lovers of smelly cheese, with a nice selection of aromatic delights. L'Etoile Restaurant Aside from places where you can buy cheese to eat at home, restaurants that cook delicious meals using local farm-produced ingredients also should not be missed. L'Etoile is a perfect example of such a place. This charming restaurant uses over 200 local suppliers for their meat, fruits, vegetables, and of course, dairy products. L'Etoile is proud to offer many different types and flavors of cheese produced by local artisan cheese makers, having established many fruitful relationships over the years. The restaurant's bar offers cheese plates for anyone to try, featuring styles and flavors such as nutty cave-aged cheeses, creamy blues, or fresh chèvres. The Speckled Hen Inn If you're in a hurry you stop by a cheese shop and if you have some time you visit a cheese-oriented restaurant. However, for a truly authentic Wisconsin cheese tasting experience, it's best that you spend at least one night in a local bed and breakfast. The Speckled Hen Inn is a great place for that and, aside from the charming guest rooms and breathtaking natural décor, they're also famous for their delicious breakfast exclusively made with locally grown ingredients. Everything is local or homemade, from the fresh eggs delivered by the Inn's own hens to the fresh fruit and vegetables grown in their garden. Obviously, this includes a wonderful variety of cheeses produced by the area's very own skillful artisans. Wisconsin's history and traditions make it a wonderful place to live and to visit. However, you can't say you have fully experienced what the state has to offer until you try some of the many different types of delicious locally produced cheese, so get out there in a vehicle from Smart Motors Toyota and experience all of the beautiful cheese that Wisconsin has to offer.   “ Cheese” via Flickr by Steam Pipe Trunk Distribution Venue. Used with permission via CC BY 2.0 / cropped from original

An empty pier on Lake Mendota near the Memorial Union.

Explore the Lakes of Madison, WI

Madison Lakes to Explore People in and around Madison, Wisconsin, are blessed with plenty of natural and man-made local attractions that provide hours of fun for the entire family. One of those local attractions is the Madison Chain of Lakes, where people can enjoy fun outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, or swimming, among many others. Lake Mendota With almost 26 miles of shoreline, Mendota is the largest lake in the area and the eight largest in all of Wisconsin. Although it generates plenty of traffic around it thanks to the many attractions it provides, the lake has managed to maintain its natural look and feel, providing the perfect escape from the busy and noisy city life. If fishing is one of your hobbies this is one of the best places to catch fish in the entire state, with walleye, northern pike, and big smallmouth bass all available. Over the years the place's reputation as an excellent place for fishing has constantly grown, up to the point where the local Department of Natural Resources had to enforce regulations to help sustain the fish population. Despite that, it's still the go-to place for anglers in the area. Lake Monona Madison's second largest lake is also usually calmer than Mendota, making it accessible for more water activities. Fishing is also a viable option and its well-developed shores offer great trails for runners and bikers. It also carries a sad story, being the place where soul singer Otis Redding died in an airplane accident when he was on route to perform in Madison. Lake Waubesa Offering a beautiful natural setting only minutes away from downtown Madison, Waybesa is a popular destination. It has a surface area of a little over 2,000 acres and offers locals a beautiful public beach as well as boating opportunities. It also hosts many lake homes and the trails around it provide great adventures for cyclists. Lake Wingra Almost entirely surrounded by woods, Lake Wingra is uniquely beautiful and offers plenty of things to enjoy. Next to the lake, you'll find the University of Wisconsin – Madison Arboretum and Henry Vilas Park and Zoo, while water sports lovers can rent kayaks, canoes, or stand-up paddleboards from shops nearby. The nearby scenery offers a serene landscape and yoga classes are held here in the summer. Lake Kegonsa The most Southern of the area's five lakes, Kegonsa is a 3,200-acre lake that's mostly surrounded by houses and farmland. The best place for visitors is its northeast shore, where Lake Kegonsa State Park can be found. Much less populated and crowded than the other lakes, Kegonsa is a perfect place for visitors that want to completely get away from all the stress and noise of modern life and get reacquainted with everything Mother Nature has to offer. From fishing to watersports, runs, bike rides, or simply nature watching, each of the five lakes around Madison provides a different experience for tourists and locals. Only a short drive away in an incredible vehicle from Smart Motors Toyota, they offer countless opportunities for entertainment, exploration, and relaxation for anyone who visits them. The dealership is located in Madison near Sun Prairie & Middleton. “ Short Walk Off a Log Pier” via Flickr by Phil Roeder. Used with permission via CC BY 2.0 / cropped from original

The Capitol building in downtown Madison WI at night.

Free Things to Do in Madison, WI

The Madison, Wisconsin area is full of fun activities and events for visitors of all ages. The best part is that Madison also has a ton of free entertainment, allowing you to stay active with the family without breaking the bank. Whether you live in or around the Madison area, make sure to check out some of the best free activities you can enjoy. University of Wisconsin-Madison Arboretum The arboretum is over 1,200 acres of woodlands, savannahs, prairies, gardens, wetlands, and ecological communities showing all the beauty that the Madison area has to offer. Visitors are free to explore the area, and there are over 20 miles of trails that can be used for hiking and biking in the nice weather and skiing and snowshoeing when the snow begins to fall. Madison Museum of Contemporary Art The Madison Museum of Contemporary Art offers free admission for visitors to get in from the cold and enjoy some amazing works of art or just take a stroll to find a little inspiration. The museum was designed by world-renowned architect Cesar Pelli and is known for its multiple learning opportunities for all ages and learning levels. You can enjoy various exhibits, film screenings, and special events throughout the year. Wisconsin State Capitol You can learn a little about the history of the area and enjoy the beautiful design of the historic Wisconsin State Capitol. The building is the only one in the United States with a granite dome. It's home to the state Legislature, the office of the Governor, and the state Supreme Court. You can enjoy free tours of the building to get an up-close view of the beautiful marble architecture and ornate mosaics. Kids in the Rotunda With free shows running every Saturday through April, the Kids in the Rotunda is held in the Overture Center for the Arts and offers free programs and performances designed for both children and their families. There are so many activities and shows to see such as magicians, dancers, a theater troupe, local and diverse musicians, storytellers, and jugglers. Madison Public Library The Madison Public Library has free admission all year-round, and you can also get a library card for free to check out books and use the computers. The library is designed to be family friendly with special unique reading nooks and The Bubble, which is an artist's studio where your kids can let loose and allow their imagination to soar. UW-Madison Geology Museum Another Madison area museum that offers free admission throughout the year is the University of Wisconsin-Madison Geology Museum. The museum is filled with unique geological displays such as meteorites, rocks, minerals, and even a fluorescent display. Children can also learn while enjoying dinosaur and fossil exhibits. The museum offers both self and guided tours as well as storytelling times. Keep your kids active when the cold weather comes without having to stretch your budget by enjoying one or more of the free activities that the Madison area has to offer.   “ Madison” via Flickr by Spiterman. Used with permission via CC BY-ND 2.0 / cropped from original

An American Farmer's Market.

Farmers' Markets in and near Madison WI

Although nowadays you can find any type of food you want by simply visiting your local supermarket, there's something uniquely satisfying about getting them directly from those who grow them. Farmers markets are a growing business in the United States because more and more people want to get locally-grown, organic food. Here are the best places in and around Madison, Wisconsin, where you can get your food directly from the people who grow it. Eastside Farmers' Market Arguably the finest weekday farmers' market in Madison, Eastside Farmers' Market is open every Tuesday from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m., from April 24th to Oct. 30th. There's also a winter market, available between Nov. 6th and Dec. the 18th. From the moment it opened back in 2002 in Madison's Central Park, this farmers' market has been entirely run and managed by its own vendors and has delivered fresh food to the people on the east side of Madison. There's a wide variety of vendors and you can get anything from naturally grown and fed meat, to honey, cheese, mushrooms, and of course plenty of fruit and vegetables from local farms. There's even a bakery, selling naturally-leavened, long-fermented breads made out of locally grown ingredients. El Mercadito De Centro Right in the parking lot of the Centro Hispano, you will find this special farmers' market run by the local Latino community. It's a different experience compared to other farmers' markets, being similar to the mercaditos you usually find in Latin America. They're open every Sunday from June 13th to Sept. 29th. It's also an entertaining experience for the entire family, with live cooking demonstrations, dance and musical performances, as well as fun activities for children. They also show family movies in Spanish every month, with subtitles available. If you're looking to buy natural, locally grown food but also have a fun Sunday afternoon, this is the perfect setting. Dane County Farmers' Market Located on the Capitol Square, this is reportedly the largest producer-only farmers' market in the entire U.S.A. Open all year round, this is where you'll find a huge variety of fruit, vegetables, cheese, meats, and different specialty products from over 275 local vendors. Aside from its size, what makes this farmers' market special is that there's no reselling allowed, meaning that the person sitting behind the stand who's selling you the food is the same person who grew it. You'll get first-hand knowledge of the food you buy by asking questions about it directly to the person that's most qualified to answer them. It also creates a special connection between local growers and the Madison community. In these industrialized and globalized times, everyone needs certain things in their lives to keep them grounded and connect them with the local community. Farmers' markets do exactly that, connecting local producers to the people who enjoy the fruits of their labor. It's a win-win situation, where producers can get the reward for their hard labor throughout the year and the community can enjoy fresh, natural, and delicious foods. Image via Pixabay by bogitw. Used with permission via CC0 1.0 / cropped from original

A blue 2019 Toyota C-HR XLE outside someones home.

5 Reasons to Choose the 2018 Toyota C-HR XLE Premium

Over the years, Toyota has been on the lead, assembling top-notch cars. The Toyota brand enjoys the preference of a vast majority due to its complete package of style and strength in its new compact High Rider crossover. The C-HR premium brand, first launched in 2018, features an athletic stance and agile handling that makes it a unique and outstanding brand. Here are five reasons to choose the 2018 Toyota C-HR XLE Premium. Interior Comfort and Convenience The C-HR Premium interior is generally stylish. Behind its steering wheel is a 4.2-inch color multi-information display that shows data such as the trip mileage, total mileage, and the outside temperature. Its 6-way driver seat and 6-way passenger seat include Height Adjustment and Manual Recline that provide more convenience. Once inside, you are further surrounded by model soft-touch comforts such as a satin-plated shift knob and leather-trimmed steering wheel. It is needless to worry about the hot summers and cold winters as the vehicle's dual-zone take cares of it all. Safety The 2018 C-HR XLE Premium model features a Toyota Safety Sense P (TSS-P) package which has numerous features such as lane-departure alert, pedestrian detection pre-collision system, dynamic radar cruise control for full speed range, and automatic high beams. Its cluster LED daytime running lights, and projector-beam halogen headlights create a pathway of light that covers a great distance, making your driving convenient and safe at any time of the day. The model also has features like a blind spot monitor, lane-keeping assist, electronic stability control, integrated turn signal mirrors, and child safety locks to further your safety while on the road. Technology The C-HR Premium has Entune 3.0 software housed in the 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system.  This Entune software features Apple CarPlay support and Bluetooth streaming, enabling it to funnel sound through six speakers. Moreover, the technology employed in this model also features an HD radio, auxiliary audio jack, phonebook access, and hands-free phone capability that collectively make your driving encounter full of fun. Don't forget that its Bluetooth wireless technology enables you to stream music while driving. Mechanical The vehicle has a wide array of mechanical features that make it suitable for your needs. First is the presence of a Continuous Variable Transmission (CVT), an automatic transmission that can seamlessly change through a range of useful gear ratios. Even with a varying output speed, the CTV enables the input shaft to retain the angular velocity. Additionally, the model features single stainless steel exhaust, rear and front anti-roll bars, Gas-pressured shock absorbers, and battery rundown protection among other unique mechanical features. Exterior The exterior of the 2018 C-HR XLE model is as good as its interior. Just right below the cargo area, a compact spare tire is mounted. The tire enables you to replace a wheel in case of deflation while on the road. It also has fully galvanized steel panels and variable intermittent wipers. Its clear coat paint makes it so beautiful and attractive. Collectively, the interior, safety, technological, mechanical, and exterior features make the 2018 Toyota C-HR XLE Premium an outstanding model. Look no further. At only $24,360 starting MSRP, you can drive a 2018 C-HR Premium vehicle with these unique features. Image used with permission via toyota.com / cropped from original

A black and white image of someone getting a relaxing massage.

3 Feel Good Places for a Relaxing Spa Experience in Madison

Madison is a beautiful place to call home, thanks to its scenic views and community-oriented atmosphere. Even so, life in this Wisconsin city can get stressful at times, just like it can anywhere else. For times such as those, you should consider letting all your stress fade away during a nice spa day. In the city, you'll find quite a few different options for your spa day, with each of them offering a memorable experience that's sure to leave you feeling relaxed and satisfied. Check out these three feel-good places for a relaxing spa experience in Madison, and learn more about each location. 1. Hand & Stone Massage and Facial Spa Open seven days a week to reservations and walk-ins alike, the Hand & Stone Massage and Facial Spa just might be your go-to location for stress relief and relaxation. They offer massages, facials, and spa treatments that will have you looking and feeling your best. You can even find a couple's massage here, as well as a one-hour pumpkin facial special offer available for a limited time in the fall. When you step inside this spa, you'll notice the welcoming atmosphere right away. The entire experience is uniquely tailored to your individual needs. Your time starts with a medical questionnaire to ensure you stay safe, followed by a one-on-one consultation with a professional massage therapist. Once your needs have been established, your personalized spa experience will begin, and you're always free to make requests for alterations at any time. 2. Indulge Spa When you stop by Indulge Spa, you'll enter a world that's designed to nurture both your health and your beauty. While you can find common services like massage therapy and skin care here, Indulge Spa also offers body and nail treatments for that extra bit of relaxation. You can always be sure your treatment is up-to-date with all the latest trends. The atmosphere at Indulge Spa is designed to invigorate all your senses, give you a harmonizing experience, and to elevate the mental clarity so many often lack in their everyday lives. Treatments here are specially crafted for the individual to maximize both the mind and body benefit, leaving you feeling fresh and more beautiful than ever before. Balancing the mind and body is the mission at Indulge Spa, and they always deliver. 3. The Haven Spa Since 2003, The Haven Spa has been a comforting getaway from the hustle and bustle of Madison. With a focus on comfort and safety since its inception, this spa has proven itself to be an excellent choice for people looking for a relaxing experience — especially if it's their first time going to the spa. You'll find a variety of services here, including massage therapy, facials, and even waxing and eyelash extensions. The professional massage team has years of experience customizing their services to clients' unique needs. Using Phytoceane for facial services and other techniques that have been proven to be effective, you'll be well on your way to renewed health and well-being. If you're looking for a relaxing retreat in Madison, any of these spa experiences will help you purge the stress from your body and put you on the path to wellness. And if you need a reliable and relaxing way to get to the spa, come to visit us at Smart Motors Toyota, and we'll help you find the stylish and comfortable vehicle that fits you and your lifestyle. We proudly serve customers throughout the greater Madison area, including Middleton, Sun Prairie, and beyond. “ Massage 21 b/w” via Flickr by Kirsty Topping. Used with permission via CC BY-ND 2.0 / cropped from original

A white 2019 toyota tundra driving down a dusty road.

4 Features You'll Appreciate in the 2019 Toyota Tundra

Anything that looks good is worth showing off. The end of 2018 is fast approaching, and the 2019 Toyota Tundra model is keenly beckoning potential buyers. The model provides an excellent example of the word 'tough.' Properly equipped Tundras have overbuilt drivetrain and 5.7-liter V-8 engines, enabling them to haul over 10,000 lbs. With Toyota's different grades such as the 1794 Edition and Tundra Premium, you can tow all this cargo in style and with ease. True strength endures, and Toyota once again proves it. To keep a forward match, Toyota's 2019 Tundra model has some advanced features that you will appreciate. Interior In both crew-cab and extended-cab Tundras, there is plenty of space that can comfortably accommodate five to six passengers. Its SR5 model has air conditioning with pollen and dust air filter to keep your drive comfortable. The front passenger and the driver have their surrounding temperature adjusted thanks to the single temperature setting. Virtually all the Tundra models have 60/40 split fold-up rear seats, and TFT Multi-Information Display with Odometer that collectively adds to your comfort while in the vehicle.  Front and rear bottle and cup holders keep your drinks in position as you drive. Safety The 2019 Toyota Tundra's safety system includes traction control, brake assist, vehicle stability control, smart stop technology, and an anti-lock brake system with electronic brake-force distribution. Many models also include integrated backup cameras. Its 3-point seatbelts are available for all seating positions. For additional safety and convenience, the model has driver-side emergency locking retractor and emergency/automatic locking retractors on all passenger seatbelts. It is also notable that the driver and front passenger seatbelt pretensioners inhibit force limiters. The 2019 Toyota Tundra also features a modern anti-theft system with Glass Breakage Sensor, engine immobilizer, and an alarm. No more worry for the safety of your truck once parked. Technology Most Tundra versions have a 7-inch touchscreen armed with an HD radio, voice recognition, CD player, USB and auxiliary ports, Siri Eyes Free,  and satellite radio, making them techno-savvy and trendy. The brand's higher trims feature embedded navigation with weather and traffic updates. They also have a JBL audio system with 12 speakers that enable you to enjoy some cool background music. Performance The 2019 Toyota Tundra engine is either 4.6-liter Aluminum i-Force V-8 or 5.7-liter Aluminum V-8 with DOHC 32-Valve Cylinder heads. It features an electronic ignition system with Toyota Direct Ignition (TDI). Advanced models of Toyota Tundra also have heavy-duty alternators and heavy-duty batteries for better performance. The vehicle further has 6-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission with intelligence, downhill/uphill shift logic, and sequential shift mode. Being a Low Emission Vehicle II with a standard stainless steel exhaust system, the 2019 Toyota Tundra is a top performer. In conclusion, the 2019 Toyota Tundra comes in six trims. With as little as $31,420; you can drive home the SR model of Tundra. Alternatively, if additional features such as 18-inch forged BBS wheels, standard sunroof, and LED daytime running lights matter to you, you can dig deeper into your pocket and drive home the Tundra TRD Pro at $49,645. Between these two extremes lie four other models. Visit Smart Toyota today to browse our current Tundra inventory! We proudly serve drivers throughout the Madison, WI area, including Middleton, Sun Prairie, and beyond. Image used with permission via toyota.com / cropped from original

A sign saying "Welcome Great Pumpkin" posted in a pumpkin patch.

The Stage is Set for Halloween Happenings in and Around Madison

Halloween is getting closer and closer, and the city of Madison, Wisconsin, is more than prepared for this exciting holiday. As a kid, Halloween plans were easy to come up with. All you did was go trick-or-treating, but as someone older, you have a lot of options for how you want to spend that spooky night. Here's a look at some of the best Halloween happenings in and around Madison. Screamin' Acres If you're a fan of haunted houses, Screamin' Acres might be exactly what you've been looking for. There are five distinct attractions here that are sure to fill you with thrills and chills. The Slaughter Haus is the most brutal experience, as you navigate the shop of a deranged butcher. Crawl Space puts you in some tight situations that may leave more claustrophobic visitors running the other way. For a more visual experience, The Last Resort puts you in contact with some of the most interesting — and most twisted — personalities around. Meanwhile, the Side Effects experience offers a 3-D journey that will show you a new definition of weird. Finally, for one night only, the Screamin' Acres experience can be enjoyed with just a simple flashlight to light your way during their Blackout event on Nov. 3. Freak Fest Nothing offers an experience quite like a music festival, and Freak Fest manages to blend the best parts of Halloween and music together in one spectacular event. For six hours, you can enjoy over 15 artists, both local and national, playing across three different stages until about 1:30 in the morning. You'll find this music festival happening on State Street on Saturday, Oct. 27. State Street has become particularly popular due to the numerous bars and restaurants located there, but ever since the festival's inception in 2006, State Street has taken extra safety precautions for Halloween night. With plenty of security and a prohibition on weapons, you can enjoy the music worry-free. Chamber of Horrors The Chamber of Horrors at Thunder Ridge Mansion has been a staple of the Wisconsin haunted house scene for 11 years, and this is its final season. You can be sure these scare experts are going out with a bang, so don't miss out on anything this Fall River attraction can offer. While there will be plenty of scares, you can also take pleasure in knowing that this entire attraction is benefiting the local Fall River Chamber of Commerce, which helps local commercial and civic interests. Experiencing this haunted house is best when you don't know what to expect. Just know that the Chamber of Horrors has been voted to be the best haunted attraction in southwestern Wisconsin more than once. Are you brave enough to venture through this house of agony and madness to face the undead that await? You can embark on your journey every Friday and Saturday in October. The Halloween season offers unique attractions you won't find any other time of year in and around Madison, Wisconsin. Whether you're looking to be scared at a haunted house or just dance the night away at a music festival, this city has more than enough to make your Halloween the best one yet.   “ The Halloween Spirit” via Flickr by JD Hancock. Used with permission via CC BY 2.0 / cropped from original

Two 2018 Toyota Camry's parked in a grassy field.

Check Out the 4 Awesome New Features of the 2018 Camry

The Camry remains one of Toyota's top-selling cars. The 2018 model, however, looks much different than the Camry you are probably familiar with. It is redesigned and boasts new features that are worth exploring. Power The 2018 Toyota Camry has three new engine choices. The standard choice is a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with 206 horsepower. You can upgrade for a little more power to the available 2.5-liter four-cylinder with 208 horsepower. For maximum power, opt for the available 3.5-liter V-6 engine that kicks out 301 horsepower. There is also a hybrid option available. The changes do not stop with the engine. You are also likely to notice an increased performance when compared to previous models, due to a tighter chassis and new double-wishbone style suspension. A brand-new eight-speed automatic transmission is also featured in all 2018 Camry trim levels. The SE and XSE trim levels get an added sporty performance with upgraded leather paddle shifters. Exterior Design The 2018 Camry does not only sport a new engine setup, but also an upgraded exterior. The entire body frame is different — lower to the ground and longer than it was before. The exterior also boasts new, sleek lines that run throughout the length of the body, as well as a larger front grille. This new exterior design does not only improve the overall look of the car, but it also gives it an upgraded aerodynamic performance. Interior Design The interior of the 2018 Toyota Camry has taken on a bolder look. You can opt for the bright Tarantino red soft-touch leather seats for a unique look that makes a statement. The rest of the interior is designed with leather and wood accent points. The 2018 Camry did hold onto one of its most appealing features though — its spaciousness.  This large sedan can handle up to 15.1 cubic feet of cargo space and also features additional storage compartments throughout the interior of the cabin. The 2018 Camry stays current with the latest technological advancements, offering a 7-inch Bluetooth-capable Entune 3 system. This touch-screen infotainment system gives the driver easy access to the vehicle's most important controls. There is also an 8-inch Entune 3 system available. Safety Toyota has made it a point to offer standard safety features in all of its newer cars. The 2018 Toyota Camry comes standard with 10 interior airbags, anti-lock brakes, adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking, and lane departure warning. The brighter LED headlights improve visibility, while also giving the Camry a more modern look. Optional safety upgrades include blind spot monitoring, rear cross traffic warning system, and a 360-degree camera system. The advanced clearance sonar feature continually monitors the area surrounding the Camry. If a potential collision is identified, it can activate the brakes, bringing you to a stop much sooner. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has already rated the 2018 Toyota Camry as one of its top safety picks. With more powerful engine choices, a luxury interior, and a stylish design, the Toyota Camry refresh is quite impressive. Come by Smart Toyota today to test-drive the popular 2018 Toyota Camry.   “ 2018 Toyota Camry Lunch-Ride-Drive “ via Flickr by Carsfera.com. Used with permission via CC BY-ND 2.0 / cropped from original

A beautifully laid farm-to-table buffet service.

4 Unbeatable Farm to Table Dining Experiences in Madison

Farm-to-table dining is a trending food experience that uses only the freshest ingredients to create a delicious meal. The thriving local farming industry in Madison, Wisconsin, makes this a great place to try some of the best farm-to-table dining experiences. 1. Graze Graze has successfully created a unique dining experience that pairs the high culinary expectations of New York City-inspired meals with the fresh ingredients that can only be found in a small farming town. Graze is also community-focused, aiming to provide Madison locals with a comfortable and welcoming spot to gather and enjoy good food together. Because of this, many of the menu items are family-style, allowing you to try multiple flavors and share with your neighbors. Be sure to try the Dill Pickle Deviled Eggs, the Pork Buns, or the Beet and Walnut Burger. Graze is also willing to incorporate any dietary restrictions or preferences. 2. Old Feed Mill Old Feed Mill is just a short drive outside of Madison and offers diners a unique country-inspired menu that is sure to remind you of your favorite home-cooked meals. Most of the ingredients are sourced from local farmers and the bread is baked daily on the premises. Just a few of the must-try items on the menu include a Tender Pot Roast, Cider Roasted Chicken, and Chicken Pot Pie. Make sure you save room for dessert. The Old Feed Mill bread pudding is made with fresh honey wheat bread, topped with raisins, walnuts, and a rich warm caramel sauce. 3. Merchant Madison Merchant Madison has a simple goal: to provide the locals of Madison with fresh ingredients, simple cooking, and American-inspired craft cocktails. This casual farm-to-table restaurant works directly with local Madison farmers to create a menu that is simple, yet delectable. You are also able to buy any of the liquor, wine, and beer displayed on their drinks menu at their liquor store and enjoy it at home. Their new American menu includes items like the Pan Seared Mahi-Mahi and Steak Frites. Come by on Tuesday nights for Cheap Date Night. For just $40, diners can order two entrees, a full bottle of wine, and a dessert to share. On Saturdays, Merchant Madison serves farmer's market-fresh brunch until 3 p.m. 4. Harvest Harvest is a lovely American-Italian restaurant that also collects all of its ingredients from local farmers. They have won many awards, including a top award for Wisconsin farm-to-table restaurants. The menu is constantly changing in order to offer ingredients and dishes that are fresh and in season. Just a few of the items that you will find on the menu include the Pan Seared Scallops and the Vegetarian Seared Artichoke. Dessert is a must at Harvest, and it includes delectable items such as Orange Chiffon Cake or Carandale Farm Persimmon Ice Cream. Harvest is only open for dinner, opening at 5:30 p.m. until close every day of the week and they are closed on all major holidays. Experience some of the best farm-to-table restaurants in Madison, WI. With fresh ingredients and constantly changing menus, each of these restaurants is sure to provide you with a memorable dining experience. “ Farm to Table TERRA – Presented by snow peak. “ via Flickr by mujitra. Used with permission via CC BY 2.0 / cropped from original

The interior of a 2018 Toyota Avalon.

Why You'll Love the 2018 Avalon's Interior

As the winner of the 2018 best large car for the money by U.S. News and World Report, the 2018 Toyota Avalon provides you with a relaxing ride thanks to a comfortable interior. Each of the five available trim levels (XLE, XLE Plus, XLE Premium, Touring, and XLE Limited) come with their own comfortable amenities, so keep reading to learn more about the Avalon's interior. Luxury Features The 2018 Toyota Avalon provides you with many luxurious features. The XLE trim comes with dual-zone climate control, while the XLE Plus gives you additional light via a moonroof. The XLE Premium provides you with memory settings for the driver's seat, so if more than one person regularly drives the car, you can set the seat to automatically resume to your preferred location. The XLE Limited trim has tri-zone automatic climate control. Seating The heart of the Avalon's interior is its seating and high-quality craftsmanship. Toyota updated the interior and added contours to the 2018 models. It also features side bolsters to keep you secure in the seat when rounding sharp corners. The 2018 Avalon comes standard with leather upholstery and heated front seats. You also get an eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat and four-way power-adjustable front passenger seat. The top-line XLE Limited features a variety of upgrades, including perforated leather seats, ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, a 10-way power-adjustable driver's seat, and eight-way power-adjustable passenger seat. Space Comfortably seating five people, the Avalon affords plenty of space to stretch your legs, whether you're in the front or back seats. Those riding in the front enjoy 42.1 inches of legroom, while those in the back receive 39.2 inches of legroom. The sloping roofline also gives enough headroom for taller back-seat passengers. In addition to interior space, the vehicle affords plenty of cargo space as it boasts about 16 cubic feet of space. A power trunk comes standard, and you can easily load and remove items from the rear, thanks to the vehicle's low, wide opening. Technology The Avalon's base XLE comes with an attractive suite of user-friendly technological features. The infotainment system includes a 7-inch touch-screen display, eight-speaker audio system, Bluetooth connectivity, Siri Eyes Free, and HD radio. You can link your compatible smartphone to the vehicle to send messages and use the navigation system. The XLE Plus adds onto the standard features and includes an upgraded nine-speaker audio system. The mid-range XLE Premium gives you wireless charging for smartphones and the Entune App Suite, which lets you have quick access to apps such as iHeartRadio, OpenTable, and Pandora. While the Touring doesn't add special technology features, the XLE Limited comes with an 11-speaker JBL audio system. The 2018 Toyota Avalon includes interior amenities that make you feel like you're driving an expensive luxurious car without spending a fortune. No matter which trim you select, you'll find the interior comfortable, high-tech, and spacious. To learn more about the Avalon, or to schedule a test drive, reach out to the professionals at Smart Toyota. Image used with permission via toyota.com / cropped from original

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