Tuesday, October 30, 2012

We loved reading about your recent purchase with us, Kelli! Thanks for leaving such great feedback!

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Kelli G.
Littleton, CO
Oct 29, 2012
"Just bought our second vehicle from here in August and I was very pleased by our experience and had to ask myself why I didn't go there first.

We went to three other Toyota dealers in Denver earlier that week/weekend all of which played a hard up-sell game, dragged their feet and wasted our time, (one even got us to the point where we signed papers and put a deposit on a car and then called us 30 minutes after we left only to be told that it was no longer available). After all this I called Mountain states the next day when I saw they had the vehicle I wanted on their lot. I told the internet manager over the phone that we were previous buyers and that I knew what I was willing to pay for the vehicle. He gave me a quote within 2 minutes over the phone and said that because we were returning customers that he would give us a good deal. He sure did it was $900 less than what we were going to pay the day prior for the same car at another dealership that jerked us around for 5 hours. This was even on a vehicle that was in high demand and hard to find.

So when it came to actually getting the car, I told him that I only had two hours to get everything done and he said they could make it happen. 2 hours later all the paperwork was completed and I had my car with no up-sell or time wasted!

Thanks Mountain States. You will definitely be getting our business again when we need another car and thanks for respecting me as a female buyer!"

Check out more reviews like Kelli's on our Yelp profile!

Toyota produces 25 millionth North American-built vehicle

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Toyota celebrated the 25 millionth vehicle manufactured in North America today at a ceremony at its Georgetown, Ky. plant coinciding with the start of production for the all-new 2013 Avalon.  The milestone vehicle – a Classic Silver Hybrid Avalon – represents 26 years of manufacturing, a direct investment of nearly $24 billion in North American operations and 365,000 jobs created in the U.S.

"Toyota's 25 millionth vehicle signifies the tireless work of thousands of Toyota team members, hundreds of North American supplier partners, and great dealers giving their best every day," said Steve St. Angelo, executive vice president of Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing North America, Inc.  "We continue to evolve as a company thanks to their commitment to build the best vehicles in the market."

Wil James, president of Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Kentucky, Inc., the company's largest manufacturing operation in North America, emceed the event. "This is a pivotal time in Toyota's history," James said to an enthusiastic crowd of manufacturing team members. "What better way to cap off 26 years of manufacturing excellence than with the all-new Kentucky- built Avalon, a shining example of what our customers have to look forward to in the future."  

Kentucky Governor Steve Beshear and University of Kentucky Men's Basketball Coach John Calipari also addressed the audience. Toyota's Georgetown plant employs approximately 6,600 and builds the Camry, Camry Hybrid, Avalon, Venza, and manufactures 4-cylinder and V6 engines. Toyota's North American production includes 12 models representing 70 percent of U.S. sales.

"We thank the millions of customers, some of the finest team members in the world, hundreds of excellent North American suppliers and our outstanding dealers who have supported us in reaching this milestone," said Bill Fay, group vice president & general manager, Toyota Division, Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc.

All-New 2013 Avalon

Toyota's 25 millionth vehicle, the all-new, North American designed and engineered 2013 Avalon, comes equipped with either a powerful V6 gasoline powertrain or  Toyota's proven Hybrid Synergy Drive. The efficiency offered by the new hybrid model will help the all-new premium mid-size sedan achieve excellent fuel economy with an EPA-rating of 40 mpg combined.

In addition to offering a hybrid powertrain, the new Avalon features a stunning design, improved dynamic performance, a greater degree of refinement, and a highly spacious, comfortable interior experience with an abundance of outstanding convenience technologies.

Source: Sacramento Bee

Monday, October 22, 2012

Thanks so much for leaving this excellent review, Mike! We hope you are loving your new SUV!

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Mike R.
Brighton, CO
Oct 19, 2012
"My wife went to Mountain States Toyota to look for some used 7 passenger SUV's. Keith Barnes was the salesperson that helped her, and he was very helpful and responsive. He was very professional and not at all pushy. We felt very comfortable during the entire process. The vehicle that we wanted was being looked at by 2 other parties. I was still able to get a small discount, due to an earlier conversation 2 days prior with Keith. I did not ask for this discount, but since we talked about it previously, he got it anyway. When making the actual purchase I worked with Francios on the financing. I was already pre-approved through my credit union, but they were able to match. While I was discussing terms with my wife, Francios was trying to get me a better interest rate than what was already agreed upon.

Working with Keith and Francios truly proved to me that the customer is the most important aspect, and not money. I will purchase more vehicles through Keith and this dealer!"

Read more of our great reviews on Yelp!

Did you watch the meteor shower on Saturday? If not, there's always another chance!

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Tuesday, October 16, 2012

Toyota Tundra Makes History Towing Space Icon

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A Toyota Tundra half-ton pickup truck without any special modifications successfully towed the space shuttle Endeavour and custom-built dolly -- a combined weight of nearly 300,000 pounds -- across a bridge spanning the nation’s busiest freeway on Friday night, Oct. 12. The tow was a result of a 20-year partnership between Toyota and the California Science Center to raise awareness of the space program and continue public education through exhibits and events.

The shuttle’s 12-mile route over city streets to its new home at the California Science Center includes one passage over the 405 Freeway. The Tundra assisted in the transport of the Endeavour as it journeyed over the Manchester Boulevard Bridge—an area that required a lighter tow mechanism than other portions of the route for weight distribution purposes. Toyota did extensive testing and worked with the Sarens Group, a heavy lifting and engineering transport company, to develop a dolly to move the Endeavour over the bridge.

“We’ve partnered with the California Science Center since the early '90s as part of our ongoing commitment to inspiring youth in the fields of engineering, innovation and future technology, and we are honored to lend our support for this historic event,” said Michael Rouse, vice president of community affairs and philanthropy for Toyota.

The model selected was a stock 2012 Tundra CrewMax 4x4 with Toyota’s 5.7-liter iForce V8, producing 381 horsepower. All Tundra trucks are produced exclusively at Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Texas in San Antonio. The truck used to tow the Endeavour was purchased from a Southern California Toyota dealer, with no modifications or special equipment added for the tow.

The Tundra was piloted by longtime Toyota professional driver Matt McBride. Riding along was Garrett Reisman, one of the astronauts aboard the orbiter when it traveled to the International Space Station in 2008. From start to finish, it took about five minutes to cross the bridge.

“I’m honored to be part of the space shuttle Endeavour’s final mission to the California Science Center,” said Garrett Reisman, an engineer and former NASA astronaut. “I appreciate Toyota’s support in helping bring this space icon home to the Southern California community.”

The Science Center has a popular working exhibit utilizing a Tundra that demonstrates the physics of leverage. The Tundra used to tow the shuttle will replace the existing truck when the Endeavour exhibit opens on Oct. 30, 2012.

Source: Toyota

Monday, October 15, 2012

Tips for Pedestrian Safety

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Failure to yield the right-of-way and driver inattention/distraction are the main contributing factors in pedestrian crashes. Follow these basic safety tips to prevent pedestrian-vehicle crashes.

Tips for Drivers:

  • Watch for and anticipate pedestrians — especially in urban areas, around schools and colleges.

  • Drive at safe speeds — pedestrians can be difficult to see, especially in bad weather or at night.

  • It’s the law to stop for pedestrians in a crosswalk, even if it’s not marked — stop far enough back so drivers in other lanes can also see the pedestrian in time to stop.

  • Do not block crosswalks while stopped, and don’t pass other vehicles stopped for pedestrians.

  • When turning, drivers often have to wait for a "gap" in traffic. Be aware that while watching for that gap, pedestrians may have moved into the driver’s intended path.

  • Be especially attentive around schools and in neighborhoods where children are active.

Tips for Pedestrians:

  • Don't count on drivers paying attention — make eye contact with motorists. Continue to be alert and check for vehicles when walking in a crosswalk.

  • Be predictable — cross or enter streets where it’s legal to do so.

  • Use sidewalks where provided — where no sidewalks are provided, it is usually safer to walk facing traffic.

  • Make it easy for drivers to see you — dress in light colors and wear retro-reflective material. Carry a flashlight when it’s dark.

  • Alcohol and drugs can impair your ability to walk safely, just like they do a person's ability to drive.

  • Use extra caution when crossing multiple-lane, higher speed streets.

Source: Minnesota Department of Public Safety

We just got an awesome DealerRater review! Kudos to Robert on a satisfied customer!

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lcline7
Denver, CO
Oct 14, 2012
"Robert DeGrassa was wonderful to work with. Very knowledgeable, and spent time with me for my needs. I have never had a good experience at a car dealership and I've bought a lot of cars. I was very impressed with him and the dealership. A wonderful experience. My sister bought a car through him and all I heard was " I couldn't go anywhere else" because Robert DeGrassa was the best. Now I know what she means."

Read more of our reviews on DealerRater!

Thursday, October 11, 2012

Toyota Presents: The Tundra Endeavour - Born in America

We just got an awesome review from Hollie on Yelp! Thanks so much for sharing your experience with us. We love to hear all of your feedback!

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Hollie P.
Lafayette, CO
Oct 10, 2012
"After being hit in my car, and my car totaled I was back to looking for a new car. I had loved my car and didn't even know where to begin. I searched many dealerships, most promising me good deals and then slowly adding more and more on to the price tag as we test drove the car and my interest increased. I was so fed up by shady dealerships and feeling like I was being scammed because I didn't know much about cars. As soon as I went to Mountain State Toyota I knew they were different. They offered me assistance without hassle or pressure. They gave me a good deal for my new car and didn't tack on any hidden fees or unexpected charges. I have since been back for every checkup/ oil change and routine maintenance. Eric the Service Manager is always helpful, and honest. Other dealerships I have dealt with always tried to get me to do other service repairs that weren't needed. Eric never does that. I always feel like he is looking out for my best interest and the interest of keeping my car on the road as long as possible."

Read all of our Yelp reviews HERE!

Tuesday, October 9, 2012

Thanks so much for sharing your thoughts with us, Geral! Props to the entire team on a satisfied customer!

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Geral H.
Dallas, TX
Oct 08, 2012
"I purchase a new car or truck every year, Huffines and the gentlemen I listed are the best , they tell you a price and it is the best around. They are very professional and polite.
I will continue to support Huffines Dodge Jeep with my business. Oh yes the wholesale parts guys are great too."

Read more great reviews on our DealerRater page!

Scion’s ‘What Moves You’ Campaign Highlights Unique ‘Scion Story’ in New Chapter of Brand’s Evolution

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Scion announced the launch of its brand campaign “What Moves You” featuring its own unique “Scion Story.” The campaign launched in September and continues with targeted high-profile broadcast, print, online and out-of-home placements next week.

“The recent introductions of the FR-S sports car and the premium micro-subcompact iQ have expanded Scion’s target audience. While these new products have successfully increased awareness of the lineup, many people have only a vague understanding of Scion’s uncommon brand attributes,” said Doug Murtha, Scion vice president. “With this in mind, the ‘What Moves You’ campaign is the first of several important initiatives designed to better familiarize consumers with the brand.

“People know that Scion makes iconic vehicles that are built with the highest level of quality, but they might not know what Scion stands for and what makes it unique. We’re truly proud to showcase the brand’s story in the new campaign, to clearly tell people who we are, what we support and more importantly, what moves us.”

Appearing prominently on the brand’s website, The Scion Story describes the colorful automotive brand’s history and plainly spells out its core beliefs. For example, it states, “We know that we are not the biggest car brand and we don’t want to be. What we do want is to provide a unique and better alternative that is right for today’s new car buyers.” This story describes Scion’s goal of offering quality cars that owners will want to personalize, with a simple purchase process that is enjoyable, and details the brand’s support of emerging talent in the art, music, design and automotive enthusiast realms.

“Since the brand launched nearly 10 years ago, Scion has had an affinity for the creative arts that has resulted in helping more than 1,700 artists follow their passions,” added Owen Peacock, Scion national marketing and communications manager. “Our support of emerging artists is and always has been a cornerstone of the brand, and we bring that to light by featuring them and their personal stories as key parts of the campaign.”

Specifically, the “What Moves You” campaign incorporates Scion creative partners, their stories of what moves them and how Scion has supported them to achieve their goals. The broadcast spot features Scion collaborators like artist Neil Krug, automotive designer Troy Sumitomo, professional racing driver Michele Abbate, and musician Prince Terrence and his band Hussle Club.

Source: Toyota

Two more great Yelp reviews! Thanks so much for sharing your feedback. Congrats to the whole team on a job well done!

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Gina M.
Littleton, CO
Oct 08, 2012
I leased my car with Mountain States Toyota and have not had any problems at all in the 2 1/2 years I have been working with them. From the leasing experience, to the scheduled maintenance, each visit has been top-knotch!

I was in the neighborhood and decided to pop by to see if I could have my oil changed (I live about 20 miles away) --- I didn't have an appointment and asked Romny Ames if they could fit me in. Romny was super friendly and said it was no problem and that they would be able to help me out while I waited.
In no time at all, my oil was changed, my car was washed and I was out the door!
Romny was professional, helpful, and courteous and I would not hesitate to make the drive back up to Mountain States for my next service call and would definitely consider doing business with them again once my lease is up! Thank you!

Read more Yelp reviews here!

Monday, October 8, 2012

Our Monday driving tip this week is to turn your lights on during the day!

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A Canadian study from 1994 found that people who drive with their headlights on during daylight hours have an 11 percent decreased risk of being in an accident with another automobile.

Tuesday, October 2, 2012

Toyota's Ultimate Smartphone Accessory: A Mini-Car

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Toyota is demonstrating a new single-seater concept car at this year's Ceatec electronics show that works as a giant extension of the driver's smartphone.

The company's "Smart INSECT" vehicle has a pad in its dashboard for mobile handsets, from which it syncs online services while also providing wireless charging. It is billing the electric car as a networked device that will support users on the road much the way their phones do when they are on foot.

 

The INSECT, whose name stands for "Information Network Social Electricity City Transporter," is packed with features now commonly found on phones and tablets. As a potential driver approaches its front, the car uses facial recognition to identify them, and the individual can then use voice and gesture controls to make queries or open the door and trunk.

Toyota's concept can communicate with its driver's home while on the road, checking whether the front door is locked or the settings of the air conditioning. The car has a large LCD display above the steering wheel that also shows information from the smartphone it is synced to.

"This car is based on the concept of connecting people, cars, and homes. It was developed by an IT engineer and has technologies such as telematics built in," said Yuji Amano, a group manager at Toyota.

The car links into to the "Toyota Smart Center," a platform that connects electric and hybrid cars with buildings and power companies, with the goal of making everything more efficient.

By accessing users' smartphones, Toyota will also gain access to information about its customers beyond their driving habits.

"The car uses data gathered from customers' actions to predict what they will do and suggest information to them," said Amano.

"One example might be in navigation, where the system uses what the user has done so far to suggest a destination."

Another example is advertising. In a demonstration, the INSECT takes a young woman to her favorite convenience store, then suggests a new snack that has recently gone on sale.

The car is based on Toyota's Coms personal electric vehicle, which sells in Japan for about $9,000. The Coms can reach speeds of 60 kilometers per hour, and can drive for about 50 kilometers on a six-hour charge.

The Ceatec show, Japan's largest consumer electronics exhibition, runs in Makuhari, just outside of Tokyo from Tuesday through Thursday.

Source: Computer World

Two more awesome reviews on Yelp! Kudos to the entire team!

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Joe S.
Denver, CO
Oct 01, 2012
"The Service Director, Jeff and Assistant Service Manager, Mike worked with me on a very expensive after warranty repair. The repair was completed on time. Mountain States impressed me as being very competent in technically difficult repairs."

Giuliano H.
Littleton, OH
Oct 01, 2012
"If there was an option for more stars I would give them to these guys. The best car shopping experience I've ever had. No pressure, no trying to push you more services and warranties.

This is a customer-oriented dealer and they demonstrate it. Big thumbs up for the service, attention and professionalism demonstrated by Felix Warwas, Jacob Morin and David Cadena, who made it possible for me to bring home the car I wanted with no hassle."

Read more reviews HERE!

Monday, October 1, 2012

Traveling with kids? Here are 5 great tips for using a booster seat!

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Five good booster seat habits:

  • Use a booster seat correctly in a back seat every time your child rides in a car.
  • A booster seat uses no harness. It uses the vehicle's lap and shoulder belts only. Be sure the safety belt is properly buckled.
  • Booster seats are not installed tightly. They sit on the vehicle seat; the child buckles the lap and shoulder belt and wears the safety belt like you do. Never use only the lap belt.
  • Use the vehicle's lap and shoulder belts on every booster seat. Never place the shoulder belt under the child's arm or behind the child's back.
  • Be sure all occupants wear safety belts correctly every time. Children learn from watching you.

Source: She Knows