Blog

Should you warm up your car? Does warming up your car actually help? During the winter most people think it is a good idea to warm their vehicles up before they head out for the day. With remote start vehicles becoming more popular than ever, the trend of warming up your vehicle has as well, because it just takes the push of a button. While warming up your vehicle may be convenient so you don't have to deal with driving in a cold car, this can affect the overall health of your vehicle. Here are a couple of ways how this affects your vehicle and the environment. more Engine Life Warming up your vehicle can actually shorten the life of your engine, by letting your vehicle idle in the cold you are actually stripping away oil from the engine's pistons and cylinders each time you do this. While you may wonder where this myth came from since it's not true, it's because it was once based on facts. Jake Scheafer the Service Director at Smart Motors' says before cars and trucks were equipped with fuel management systems, they relied on carburetors and simpler fuel system management which did need significant time to warm up. He also stated "Vehicles manufactured post-1980 have fuel management systems designed to heat up the engine fairly quickly. Under normal wintertime circumstances, idling your car or truck for about 30 seconds is all it takes to get the engine above 40 degrees; ideal for typical operation.” Environmental Harm While warming your vehicle up may make your drive a little more comfortable, it can add to more damage to the environment. Idling your vehicle releases harmful chemicals, gases, and other toxins into the air. This contributes to regional haze, depletion of the ozone, and global climate change. Idling your vehicle burns way more gas than just starting it and every gallon of gas burned produces more than 20 pounds of greenhouse gases. Avoiding Damage to Your Engine If you are worried about harming your engine and the environment but you still want your vehicle to be warm you should know that most new vehicles warm up fast. “Vehicles manufactured post-1980 have fuel management systems designed to heat up the engine fairly quickly. Under normal wintertime circumstances, idling your car or truck for about 30 seconds is all it takes to get the engine above 40 degrees; ideal for typical operation,” said Jake Scheafer. Schaefer says that unless the outside temperatures are extremely frigid, drivers should start their vehicle, get out and walk around it to remove any obstructing snow or ice, get back in and start driving as usual. Driving the vehicle, he says, is a much quicker way to warm up an engine without causing it damage. "Of course, if it’s very cold out, you should wait until your defrost starts blowing warm air,” he warns. “You don’t want to compromise your safety by peeking through a tiny clear spot you’ve managed to make in your windshield.” Another thing to be careful about is accelerating too fast the first few moments you are driving. This can add unwanted strain to your bearings and flood the combustion chamber with gas, which in turn will take miles off your engine's life. This is why it is a good idea to take the first couple of miles on the slower side and not rev your engine too much. If you are worried that you've already done damage to your engine or you just need maintenance done on your vehicle, come visit our Service Center at Smart Motors Toyota in Madison, WI, and our Toyota trained technicians can help. We proudly serve drivers throughout the greater Madison area, including Sun Prairie, Middleton, and beyond. Image by Pexels from Pixabay

Drivers and critics are raving about this year's new Toyota Corolla. With customizable design options, incredible remote and in-car connectivity, and hybrid models that optimize fuel economy and maximize fuel efficiency, the 2021 Toyota Corolla is certainly a favorite this year. more 1. Commanding and Sophisticated Design Options There are so many different trims to choose from for your 2021 Corolla, each with its own unique style. This way, you can choose the car that best represents you. The 2021 Corolla SE Nightshade Edition is as sophisticated as it comes. With black accenting like the blacked-out wheels and grille, the Nightshade is for anyone who wants their ride to scream refinement and power. The 2021 Corolla SE Apex Edition and XSE Apex Edition are great trims for those who love a sporty design. They come with a black roof, black mirror caps, and a black-and-bronze body kit. The 18-inch black flow-formed aluminum wheels and rear diffuser accents really add a sophisticated touch to this trim's athletic physique. 2. Stay Connected on the Go! Your 2021 Corolla is prepared to keep you informed and communicating on the go. That's why you get Android Auto and Apple CarPlay standard with any trim. Then you have access to phone calls, messages, navigation, and more important apps from your phone, right on your 8-inch center display touch screen. For a hands-free experience, you can connect to Amazon's Alexa. She can do anything from playing your favorite album, accessing your in-home systems, and more! There's a three-month free trial for Sirius XM when you invest in a 2021 Corolla. You get access to radio stations across the country anywhere. You can listen to almost any music on the go! Your sound experience just keeps getting better, because you also have an available sound system with nine 800-watt JBL speakers. 3. Incredible Hybrid Features The 2021 Corolla Hybrid LE is a great trim option for anyone who prioritizes cutting back on fossil fuel emissions or just loves to save big at the gas station. The Hybrid LE trim is one of Toyota's most impressive hybrid vehicles to date. It has an EPA-estimated rating of 52 combined miles per hour, which is higher than any other previous Corolla model. There truly are no fallbacks when you're investing in a 2021 Corolla Hybrid LE. This impressive car doesn't sacrifice fuel efficiency and economy for power and strength. You get a Hybrid Power Mode, which instantly increases your Hybrid Corolla's throttle with the push of a button. 4. Impressive Remote Connectivity With the Toyota App, you can access the available Remote Connect system. This app on your compatible smartphone lets you access information about your car, like its location and fuel level. You can even manage some of your 2021 Corolla's controls. This means that you can lock and unlock its doors, start the engine remotely, and more just by pressing a button on your smartphone. You don't even have to be located near your vehicle! Call us now at Smart Motors Toyota to find out more about the fantastic 2021 Corolla or schedule a test drive! Our dealership proudly serves drivers throughout the greater Madison, WI area, including Sun Prairie, Middleton, and beyond.

If you're looking to buy a new pickup truck this year, instead of looking at traditional trucks, consider a new Toyota Tacoma. You'll be amazed at all the features owners love about the 2021 Toyota Tacoma. Its Four-Wheel-Drive Capabilities The single feature that Toyota Tundra owners love about their truck is its off-road capabilities. The Toyota Racing Development (TRD) models are ideal for driving over even the rockiest of trails and perfect for playing in the mud. The 16-inch wheels are designed to take you over difficult terrain with ease, and the standard locking rear differential ensures you'll never get stuck in a mud bog or ditch when you're out blazing new trails or tackling a snowstorm. more Its In-Cab Technology When you're out hitting the off-road trails, it's nice to have in-cab technology to keep you entertained. All Tacomas come standard with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a modern infotainment system, and a WiFi hotspot that's available with an additional subscription. The power-adjustable driver's seat will ensure your comfort as you're conquering hills and crawling over boulders. You can also keep your gadgets charged with the various USB and other ports available on the dashboard and in the center console. Its Standard Safety Features Of course, you want to keep yourself and your passengers as safe as possible when you're both on- and off-road, and the Toyota Tacoma offers the most standard safety features in its class. You'll find a forward-collision warning system, automated emergency braking, a lane-departure warning system, and adaptive cruise control, among other features, all standard on any model Tacoma you buy. You won't find these features on other trucks without paying more for an upgraded vehicle. Its Complimentary Maintenance Every new Toyota Tacoma comes with a complimentary maintenance package for the first two years or 25,000 miles, whichever comes first. You'll get free oil changes, tire rotations, and multi-vehicle inspections when you bring your truck in at the manufacturer-recommended intervals. Additionally, you also have access to free roadside service for the first two years of ownership as well (there is no mileage limit for this perk), which will give you free tows, free tire changes, and free fuel. Its Towing and Payload Capacity You definitely want a truck that can handle towing and hauling, because otherwise, what's the point of a truck? The new Tacoma can tow up to 6,800 pounds if you have the rear-wheel-drive model or 6,500 pounds if you have the four-wheel-drive model. You'll also be able to haul whatever you need in either its five-foot or six-foot bed. However, the two-wheel-drive models can only tow 3,500 pounds, so go for the 4WD, if you plan to tow a lot. Its Fuel Economy Trucks have never been known for their fuel economy, but the Toyota Tacoma gets better-than-average miles per gallon. It will get 18 miles per gallon in the city and 23 miles per gallon on the highway, which falls in the middle of the pack for its class. Trucks may never be environmentally friendly, but you could do much worse than the Tacoma. This year is the perfect year to get the truck you need. The Toyota Tacoma is an excellent choice for a mid-size pickup truck. Visit Smart Motors Toyota and test drive the brand new Toyota Tacoma today! We proudly serve drivers throughout the greater Madison, WI area including Middleton, Sun Prairie, and beyond.

Did you know there are over 200 hiking trails near Madison, WI? Many of them are close to the city, ensuring that you can always get out and experience natural beauty. 1. Lake Monona Loop This popular trail is appropriate for walking, jogging, and cycling. The main pathway runs alongside the lakeshore, but there are plenty of side trails to keep the journey fresh. Along the way, you pass by Monona Terrace, designed by Frank Lloyd Wright. Olin Park is also accessible from the trail, a great place to catch your breath while you take in the view of Madison's skyline. Another fun stop along the loop is Olbrich Park where you can kick off your sneakers and run on the sandy beach. more 2. Devil's Lake State Park The park's 29 miles of trails are sure to challenge all levels of hikers. Beginners will enjoy the easy trail leading down to the base of the bluff. On hot days, a grotto awaits those who want to cool off. More experienced hikers will want to climb the bluffs. These rocky trails can be challenging and steep, but the views that await are some of the most rewarding in the region. Just remember that trails are not maintained during the winter and to use extra caution. 3. Lower Yahara River Trail This 2.5-mile trail connecting Madison to McFarland is scenic. The path begins as a paved one and winds through woodlands, farmlands, and prairies. Wildlife enthusiasts should be on the lookout for eagles, cranes, and other waterfowl. The path soon reaches the longest pedestrian and cyclist boardwalk bridge in the state. Constructed alongside the railroad track, this boardwalk bridge crosses the northern shore of Lake Waubesa. The trail ends at the village of McFarland, where hikers can replenish at one of the many local eateries. 4. University of Wisconsin-Madison Arboretum The University is known for conservation and reconstruction and visitors can see some of their efforts on the 1200 acre grounds. Start with the visitor's center to learn about what the University does. Then pick from 17 different trails that wind through various types of terrain. Visitors can hike through woodlands, wetlands, and savannas all while observing native plants and wildlife. It is not uncommon to see owls, turkeys, and squirrels. While the main road can be crowded, you can have many of the smaller side paths to yourself. 5. Ice Age Trail This trail is wonderful to visit in all seasons, especially during the winter when folks enjoy cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.  The entire trail spans 1,200 miles, but there is a 3-mile segment near Madison. Steeped in history, the trail follows the edge of where a prehistoric glacier once existed.  Nowadays, the only evidence left behind is the region's lakes, river valleys, and hills. After a long hike, there's nothing better than driving comfortably home. If your car isn't getting the job done, consider a new or used Toyota. Stop by Smart Toyota today and test drive one of our many exciting models. Come and experience our award-winning service today. We proudly serve drivers throughout the greater Madison, WI area, including Sun Prairie, Middleton, and beyond.

If you're looking for a car that will fit all of your kids, their friends, and the family dog comfortably, you know that your options are typically gas-guzzling and inefficient. Today, you no longer have to sacrifice efficiency and economy for space. The 2021 Toyota Sienna has it all, with a roomy interior, impressive amenities, and the leading fuel efficiency of its class. At Smart Toyota, we want to show you why the Sienna is the best minivan today. Basics About the 2021 Toyota Sienna The first edition of this minivan was the 1998 Toyota Sienna. Today, the Sienna is one of the United States' most popular minivans. All Siennas are hybrids, which makes the Sienna a fantastic choice for those who want to save big on gas. more Pricing There are five different Sienna trims available for you to select from. The most expensive and luxurious Sienna is the Platinum, which has stylish 20-inch wheels and a starting MSRP of $49,900. The Limited also has amazing features, like hands-free dual power sliding doors. It starts at $46,700. The XSE has a sportier look with 20-inch dark wheels and starts at $42,000. The most basic models of the Sienna seat eight while the other trims seat seven. The XLE has a power tilt moon roof and starts at $39,750. The classic model, the Sienna LE is still equipped with impressive features and technologies. It starts at $34,460. Incredible Features of 2021's Best Minivan Class-Leading Gas Mileage for Fuel Efficiency The 2021 Sienna with take you the farthest for the least amount of gas money. No other minivan has better gas mileage than Toyota's Sienna. With an impressive EPA-estimated combined rate of 36 miles per gallon, you are sure to save your money in the long run with this investment. Amazing Amenities to Keep Your Kids Happy! With four distinct climate zones, everyone can find the temperature that's right for them. The driver's seat, front passenger seat, second row, and third-row each have their own controllable microclimate to keep everyone content. To occupy your kids on those long road trips to Grandma's house, we've got your back with the available 1080p HD Rear-Seat Entertainment Center. Instead of flicking Cheerios at your head for entertainment, your kids can watch their favorite movies. Impressive Connectivity You can now download the Toyota App to access Remote Connect. This way, you don't need to fish your keys out of your pocket to lock your doors, start the engine, and more. Inside the Sienna, you can connect your smartphone with Apple CarPlay or Android Auto to bring your communication seamlessly into your command center. You even have access to Amazon Alexa for a hands-free experience, and an available Wi-Fi hotspot to get internet access on the road. With innovative technology, the best fuel-efficiency available in a minivan, and much more, the 2021 Sienna is a great family vehicle. Do you want more information about this economical, spacious automobile? Then look no further! Visit us at Smart Toyota today!

In Madison, WI winter can bring extreme weather conditions, like freezing temperatures, icy roads, and snowstorms. Although this weather can cause road conditions to be bad, something else you need to worry about is your car battery discharging and the issues jump-starting your vehicle can bring. more Why Does My Car Need a Jump Start? Car batteries become discharged more often in the winter because the colder temperatures affect your vehicle in a couple of ways. First, when your car battery is cold it doesn't have as much power as a battery that is at normal temperatures. Second, the oil in your car gets colder, and while oil doesn't freeze, it gets thicker the colder it gets, and thick oil makes it harder to turn over in the engine. Both can make starting your car difficult, which can in turn drain your battery. Most of the time a discharged battery can be recharged and work just fine, but you need to recharge the battery in a timely manner. If not done in time, a discharged battery can freeze and you will be unable to recharge it, which will ruin your battery. This issue can occur in traditional cars as well as hybrid cars, but while most people know how to jump-start a traditional vehicle, most people don't realize hybrid cars, like the Toyota Sienna, Camry hybrid, and Prius, for example, require different precautions to jump or receive a jump. How to Jump-Start a Hybrid Vehicle: Don't use your hybrid vehicle to jump-start other vehicles too much, this can damage your vehicle's electrical system. Apply your parking brake and turn off your headlights and interior lights Turn off the hybrid system and remove your key Open your hood, the fuse block cover, and the exclusive jump-starting terminal cover Connect the positive clamp (red) jumper cable to the exclusive jump-starting terminal Connect the negative clamp (black) to a solid, stationary, unpainted, metallic point of the vehicle with the discharged battery If the booster battery is installed in another vehicle, make sure the vehicles aren't touching and all unnecessary lights are off Whenever you are boosting a vehicle, use a battery of matching or higher quality Allow the discharged battery to rest with the jumper cables connected for 5 minutes. Then, run the engine in the vehicle that is boosting at about 2,000 RPM with the gas pedal lightly depressed Start the hybrid system and make sure the "ready" light is on Disconnect the negative cable and then the positive cable How to Jump-Start a Traditional Vehicle: Park the booster vehicle close, but not touching the vehicle that needs to be jumped Begin by clamping one end of the positive jumper cables (red) to the positive battery terminal (labeled +) of the discharged vehicle Connect the other end of the positive cable (red) to the positive battery terminal (labeled +) on the booster vehicle Connect one end of the negative jumper cable (black) to the negative battery terminal on the booster car (marked -). Then take the other end of the negative jumper cable (black) and attach it to an unpainted metal surface on the engine of the discharged vehicle Start the discharged car and let the two vehicles idle for a few minutes Once the discharged vehicle is started and running smoothly, disconnect the cables in the reverse order that you connected them Drive the recharged car to somewhere safe before shutting off the engine in case the battery happens to die again Visit Our Madison, WI Service Center for More Help Knowing how to jump your vehicle correctly can prevent damage to your vehicle and prevents you from harming yourself. While car batteries becoming discharged is one of the problems winter weather conditions can bring, it can also bring other problems to your car. If you have any other vehicle problems or need to winterize your vehicle, come visit our Service Department at Smart Toyota in Madison, WI and our certified-trained technicians can help with all your service needs. We proudly serve customers throughout the greater Madison area, including Middleton, Sun Prairie, WI, and beyond. Image by StockSnap from Pixabay

A visit to the Wisconsin State Capitol can now be scheduled. Groups of ten or more can set up a tour of the historic building, and we've listed a few things to keep in mind. 1. Keep up With City Covid-19 Guidelines The highlights are that cloth masks are required indoors, feeling sick is a reliable sign that you should stay home, and public water fountains and restrooms are closed. These city guidelines are subject to change, so check before you head out. more In addition to making sure you know the requirements, make sure your group does too. Regardless of personal views, the rules will need to be followed. Don't be the group that's asked to leave for breaking them. 2. Keep an Eye Out for Fossils Several naturally occurring fossils can be found in and around the capitol building. From starfish to gastropods, you won't want to miss these ancient artifacts in the halls. To be exact, there are eight fossils. How many can you find on your tour? You don't need to worry about missing any, because your guide will know exactly where they are. 3. Pictures Are Allowed Art and beauty fill the grounds. A picture lasts forever, so take one! Take as many as you like and show off to your friends and family who miss the trip. You may be tempted to relive your college Intro to Photography class when capturing images of the iconic statues and architecture. Pictures are allowed, but if you don't want to run out of space, you may need to have a spare memory card. There's nothing more frustrating than being halfway through your tour when you get the 'low memory' alert. 4. Ask Questions The guides are trained to answer any and all questions you might have. If you're curious about something it's their job to know. Keeping questions to yourself means you're going to be left unsatisfied with your experience, and your guide underutilized. If you're looking for things to ask about, there are decorative pediments on all four sides of the building. A fire destroyed most of the building, but most of the library was saved. You can ask about the restoration that took 24 years to complete. There's so much history here that an endless supply of questions can be found with minimal research. 5. Show up in Style Nothing says VIP visitor like pulling up in a gorgeous car. The best way to accomplish this is with a brand new one, with that new car sheen. If you are looking for a vehicle that will impress or just need an upgrade, then head down to Smart Motors, the Toyota Dealer of Wisconsin, to pick up your new car. An arrival that will impress is waiting for you!

Purchasing a Toyota means you're the proud owner of a vehicle that is built to last while delivering the smoothest most enjoyable ride possible. And when it comes time to bring your car in for service, the trained professionals at Smart Toyota are there to make sure you and your car get the VIP treatment you both deserve. Our mission is simple, to ensure your car runs as perfectly as it did the day you drove it off the lot. Courtesy Oil Changes more At Smart Toyota, you're more than just a customer, you are a valued member of the Toyota community. And to show our appreciation, Smart Toyota gladly offers complimentary oil changes on new car purchases for the first two years/25,000 miles. Getting your oil changed at the appropriate time reduces harmful friction between your engine's moving parts, allowing your Toyota to run optimally. We only supply your vehicle with high-quality motor oil that helps to remove impurities while it lubricates. Brake Service Your brakes should function flawlessly at all times for obvious reasons, and there is no better place to have your brakes serviced than at Smart Toyota in Madison, WI. Our trained Toyota technicians will help determine how safe your brakes are, as well as the surrounding components such as brake rotors. This level of expertise can help save you money in the long run by spotting and preventing potential wear and tear signs before they occur. Tire Service Your tires are what connect your vehicle to the road and having tires that properly grip the road is monumentally important for the safety of you and your passengers. Our specialized technicians will give you a full analysis of your tires and current tread level and inform you of whether or not it is time to change them. You can also count on tire rotation, pressure, and balancing as part of this very important service. Smart Toyota Certified Parts All cars need a new part once in a while and this also applies to a great car like your Toyota. If you need a part replaced, your first and only destination should be your authorized Smart Toyota dealership. Aftermarket parts are not put through the same rigorous testing and certification process that Toyota's are. This means when things go wrong with an aftermarket part, there is no one to hold accountable. Friendly and Professional Team At Smart Toyota, we pride ourselves on building strong relationships with loyal customers. When you bring your vehicle in for service, you'll be met with a level of courtesy and professionalism that reminds you that you made the right choice by purchasing a Toyota from us. Whether you're meeting with a salesperson, manager, or service technician, you'll be greeted with a smile and a genuine desire to exceed your expectations. There are plenty of reasons why you should trust us with an investment as important as your vehicle. If you want to join this amazing community, visit Smart Motors Toyota today to view our incredible selection of new and certified pre-owned Toyota vehicles!

Winter in Wisconsin It’s mating season, and Wisconsinites know what that means. From now until December, deer and other wild animals will be out in droves, oblivious to their own safety. It’s that time of year when at any given moment, a deer will come bolting out of nowhere and strike your vehicle with full force. It’s an unfortunate experience and one that is getting costlier. more According to the State of Wisconsin Department of Transportation, there were 18,414 deer-vehicle collisions reported in 2019. That’s three times as many as alcohol-related crashes. From mid-October through November, nearly 7,000 deer-vehicle accidents occur in the state. Less dense foliage, higher animal activity levels, and an earlier setting sun collectively result in nearly 150 accidents per day during the seasonal peak. With more than 400 personal injuries on an annual basis. A Costly Collision and Who To Trust With Your Vehicle Ask anyone who has hit a deer and they’ll all agree that there's really no such thing as a “minor” deer-vehicle crash. Deer Collision Repair Costs “When a deer smacks into your car, they collide with significant force,” says James Anderberg, manager at Ball Body Shop, 2225 Eagle Drive in Middleton, a division of Smart Motors. He says the average hit can cost between $2,500 and $6,000 with some smash-ups resulting in a total loss. And to make matters worse, these costs are going up. Anderberg says the features that are currently on vehicles to help keep drivers and passengers safe are one of the reasons repair costs are on the rise. Wondering if hitting a deer might total your car? “Deer commonly take out the hood, grille, air conditioning condenser, the radiator, fan assembly, and front inner structure components,” Anderberg says. “But more and more, we’ve had to replace sensors, cameras, and other high-tech safety features.” Anderberg says some auto manufacturers are said to be refining collision-warning systems to help alert drivers to deer. “For now, though, there’s not a front crash prevention system that is calibrated to recognize deer or other animals,” he says. State Farm Insurance says the national reported cost per claim from hitting a deer rose 6 percent to more than $4,100 from about $3,900 in 2014 and then rose to $4,341 in 2018. And while a driver’s comprehensive insurance coverage should absorb these costs. Many drivers elect not to carry comprehensive and therefore have to pay out of pocket. Anderberg acknowledges that the situation is unfortunate. But, he assures Ball Body Shop has the expertise required to fix any deer crash incident. Tips to Avoid Deer-Vehicle Collisions Always use caution when driving - especially at dusk and into the evening hours. When light levels are low animals are more active. Complacency equals negligence. Stay alert, focused, and pay attention – be aware of the landscape and your environment. Deer generally travel in small groups. If one crosses the road, odds are there are others nearby that might attempt crossing. Watch for and recognize deer crossing signs. Sometimes it makes sense to hit the deer. This might sound callous, but if the choice comes down to hitting a deer or swerving over the centerline, hitting the deer will cause less damage. It also reduces mortality rates. Be a speed limit driver, higher speeds reduce reaction times - going the speed limit increases travel safety. Keep your lights, brakes, and tires well maintained for optimal performance. Buckle up, don't tailgate, and remember to slow it down. Prepare for the unexpected. To prevent an accident in the first place, Anderberg recommends avoiding high-density areas where deer congregate after dark. Rural and suburban roads with zig-zagging stretches, long straightaways, uphill corners, sharp curves, dense culverts, and low lighting can all overlap. These can create dangerous choke-points where accidents may occur. About Ball Body Shop Ball Body Shop, the official body shop of Smart Motors, opened its doors in 1950. They provide the Madison area with customized, cost-effective auto-body services to all domestic and imported vehicle makes. Ball Body Shop has been voted “Best Body Shop” by the readers of Madison Magazine over the years. Ball Body Shop is located at 2225 Eagle Drive, Middleton WI. Phone #: 608.831.5944.

Toyota has a long-standing reputation for building reliable, fuel-efficient cars, and the 2020 Toyota Camry Hybrid is a perfect example of that. With a wide range of features and backed by Toyota's rock-solid warranty it gets you maximum value out of your dollar. Key Features of the 2020 Toyota Camry Hybrid more Value Starting at just $28,430 MSRP, the Camry Hybrid is worth every penny. It is super efficient at the gas pump, getting you 53 miles per gallon on the highway and 51 mpg when driving in the city. It comes with a warranty that is just as valuable, with a battery warranty good for 10 years or 150,000 miles. You also get a limited warranty good for three years or 36,000 miles, and a power train warranty that covers you for 5 years or 60,000 miles. Performance The Camry Hybrid features a 2.5 Liter four-cylinder engine with dual injection, getting you 176 horsepower at 5700 rotations per minute, and 163 foot-pounds of torque at 5200 rpm. It features Mcpherson strut front suspension and Independent rear suspension for a silky-smooth ride. The electric motor gives you 650 volts of pure power, for a net output of 208 horsepower. An electronically controlled continuously variable transmission is included for smooth, efficient gear shifting. Electric power steering means you don't have to muscle through the turns, ensuring an effortless drive. Power-assisted front brakes give you a smooth, quick stop every time. Modern Interior and Stylish Exterior The various trim levels of the Camry give you different levels of luxury. The base model features 16-inch rims, LED taillights and accents, power mirrors, and a dark front grille. Inside, you'll find a dual-zone climate control system and a seven-inch touchscreen for accessing apps and media. The driver's seat is power-adjustable, with cloth upholstery. The SE is the next step up and features dual chrome exhaust tips and a spoiler. The wheels are 18 inches for an extra bit of style. The XLE is the top of the line, featuring a bright metallic grille, and upgraded headlights. The exhaust is chrome-tipped, and the wheels have a silver finish to make them a little flashier. Inside you'll find all leather seating matched with a leather-wrapped steering wheel. Natural wood trim accents are included, as is ambient lighting to get the mood just right. The seats are also heated to keep you nice and cozy on cold winter drives. Tech features include an eight-inch touch screen, wireless charging for your devices, and an auto-dimming rearview mirror. Safety As you would expect from a modern Toyota vehicle, the Camry Hybrid features a whole host of safety features. These include stability control, traction control, and anti-lock brakes. Driver-assist features include a pre-collision warning with automatic emergency braking and blind-spot monitoring. Give us a call at Smart Motors and test drive the Camry Hybrid today. For ten years we've been Wisconsin's leading Toyota seller, and we'd love to have you stop by and give us a try.

Lately, it's been a little hard trying to connect with nature outside of watching a David Attenborough documentary or playing Animal Crossing: New Horizons. With fall weather making the days comfortably cool, perhaps it's time to visit the Olbrich Botanical Gardens and experience nature in person. A Brief History of the Olbrich Botanical Gardens Intended as a way to preserve public access to Lake Monona from increasing residential development, Michael B. Olbrich began purchased the land around Starkweather Creek with plans to build an expansive park and municipal garden center. Sadly, Olbrich did not live to see his idea into action. In 1952, Madison Park Commission began work on creating the Botanical Gardens. Today there are 16 acres filled with multiple outdoor gardens as well as a conservatory that houses a tropical paradise year-round. more The Outdoor Gardens The Olbrich Gardens has 16 acres of outdoor garden displays. Each garden area has been designed to showcase the beauty of each plant as well as delight the senses of those who walk through them. Every season hosts a breathtaking display; whether its bulbs in the spring, annuals, and perennials during the summer, mums and swaying grasses in the fall, or evergreens dusted with snow in the winter. Don't forget to visit the Thai Pavillion while you're there: a gorgeous structure that was a gift from the Thai Government and one of only four located outside of Thailand. The Bolz Conservatory Even in the dead of winter, you can still see exotic plants in full bloom and bask in the tropical environment within the conservatory. Free-flying birds and, during certain parts of the year, butterflies flit throughout the glass enclosure. Banana plants, vanilla producing orchids, and coffee bearing shrubs mingle with carnivorous plants and waterfalls. Hours of Operation, Admission Fee, and Other Information During October, the outdoor gardens and the conservatory are open from 12:00 pm to 6:00 pm Sunday through Saturday. Starting November 1, both are open from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm Sunday through Saturday. The outdoor gardens are free of charge, though donations are always appreciated. The conservatory charges $6.00 but has free admission for those that are 5 years and younger or if they are Olbrich Botanical Society members. New procedures have been introduced to help keep staff and guests safe and to ensure proper physical distancing in accordance with the CDC and Wisconsin Department of Health. It's never a bad idea to call ahead or visit their website to see the current procedures and guidelines since they are always subject to change. While you're in the area, stop by Smart Motors Toyota and test drive a car. We're happy to help you find a new or used car that will fit your needs. We're also the only official Toyota Rent A Car provider in the Madison, Wisconsin area. Our hours are Monday through Thursday from 9:00 am to 8:00 pm, Friday from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm, and Saturday from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm.

It's no secret that Madison loves coffee. You can hardly turn a corner without finding a cafe, bakery, restaurant, or coffeehouse that offers you your caffeine fix. We all have our favorites, but if you've been looking for a new spot to try, we've got a few you should check out. Grace Coffee Co. (417 State St) This quaint and comfy shop is a local favorite that's currently serving up seasonal treats like pumpkin cardamom chai latte. The place has a very relaxed vibe and excellent pour-over coffee that is a must-taste-to-believe. The açaí bowls come highly recommended, as well. Finca Coffee (2500 Rimrock Rd, Ste 105) Though its location is kind of off the beaten path, it is most certainly worth the trip. Finca, in Central America, is Spanish for farm--which is where it all begins for Finca Coffee. They use direct fair trade practices to purchase directly from farms in El Salvador and bring it here to share their culture with their customers directly. more Ledger Coffee Roasters (3241 Garver Green, Ste 140) Incredible coffee!” “Delicious coffee,” “...extra special...delectable and unique.” “Love, love, love this place!” As a staple of the Garver Feed Mill, Ledger Coffee Roasters specializes in precisely prepared small-batch coffee that is roasted locally in town, and we think the reviews say it all. “Their coffee is SO delicious!” We could go on, or you could just go and try it for yourself. Bradbury's (127 N Hamilton St) An adorable little coffee shop/ breakfast joint, Bradbury's provides great customer service and has amazing coffees that are strong and creamy. They offer a flavor-of-the-day, usually from Ruby roasters, and every blend is simply delicious. Free WiFi and Apple-pay are also available. Crave Coffee & Donuts (604 University Ave) While the gourmet donuts are most famous here, without the high-quality coffee they wouldn't be the same. Created fresh for you with excellent barista service, this place is going to make your day a little brighter, for certain. Fair Trade Coffee House (418 State St) Just a few blocks down from the Capital Square and Overture Center, Fair Trade Coffee House is serving up fair trade certified coffee and espressos. Every barista has been trained to pull perfect shots in your triple espresso and they can steam the milk perfectly for an extra dry cappuccino. They put in extra effort here and you will notice the difference. Rusty Dog Coffee (3244 Progress Rd) Founded in 2013, Rusty Dog Coffee is a small, local craft coffee roaster that is owned and operated by three good friends and their families. Their coffee is always fresh and never artificially flavored. Their coffee can be found all around town at a variety of restaurants, retailers, and other local businesses, but you can swing by and pick up some to bring home while you're out and about during your day. As a premier Wisconsin Toyota dealer, we have a wide selection of both new and used vehicles--all that have great cup holders for your coffee. We're located in Madison, WI and proudly serve drivers throughout the Middleton and Sun Prairie areas. Visit Smart Motors Toyota today to find a great vehicle that can get you to all the coffee spots your heart desires.