Lithia Toyota of Abilene

Blog

Three Moving Tips for National Moving Month

Carton moving boxes. New house boxes with personal stuff, cardboard boxes with pot plant, books and lamp flat vector illustration. Moving box with things

May is National Moving Month, marking the beginning of peak moving season in the United States. Moving can be more than a hassle, but also a new adventure! Follow our great tips for a safe, successful, and stress-free move!

Prep Ahead

Moving can seem daunting, but with some prep and planning, it’s a manageable adventure. Having an inventory list isn’t just great for moving but for insurance purposes as well. Write down your belongings, the amount (for multiple things such as cups), and which box they’ll be in. A checklist will ensure everything is packed, that nothing fragile is packed under heavy items, and save you time by numbering boxes instead of naming them.

Another great way to prep ahead is to Marie Kondo your home – donating, throwing away, and sorting items to lighten your load. Moving is some of the best times to reassess what you have and find things you thought were lost. Decluttering, sorting, and packing as far ahead as possible makes sorting a fun and easy chore that can make a move much more manageable.

Invest In Moving Equipment

Speaking of packing, don’t wait to run to the store to stock up on boxes, box cutters, markers, packing tape, paper towels, and garbage bags. That’s not the only thing on the equipment list, however. Buying, renting, or borrowing a furniture dolly, furniture pads or covers, and tie-down straps or rope for an easier move can make the process easier if not safer. Don’t risk injuries due to improper equipment or lifting.

Transportation

Everything’s packed, but how are you getting from point A to point B? Movers are always an option, but the average cost of moving a home can range between $2,000 and $4,000. Unless you’re moving for a new position that offers a relocation package, that’s not feasible for many households.

One of the biggest traditions is calling your friends and family, buying them a drink and some pizza, and getting to work packing a rented truck and your car – but what if you could save the money on the rental as well? A well-equipped car can hold a surprising amount of cargo. Some 2024 SUVs even have upwards of 144 cubic feet! Add in a roof rack, towing hitch, stowing seats, and more features to maximize your space, and your move becomes a lot more affordable.

Upgrading for National Moving Month

Upgrading to a new car with more cargo has more benefits in the long run than a move. Did you know that people move around 11 times on average during their lives? Moving isn’t an if, it’s a when. Make sure you’re ready with plenty of space! The 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid and 2024 Toyota 4Runner are some of the best new models out there, with great features, ample cargo space, and efficient mileage for everyday driving and long-distance moving.

This National Moving Month, visit Toyota of Abilene and get yourself a spacious, dependable car to cruise through one of the top three most stressful life events a person can experience in their lifetime. Our team can help you choose the vehicle that’s right for you right now and for many years to come!

Recommended Posts

The Complete Guide to Toyota Hybrids

Toyota builds more hybrid vehicles than almost any other automaker on the road today, and the lineup now stretches from the budget-friendly Corolla Hybrid all the way to the 437-horsepower Tundra i-FORCE MAX. That's a lot of ground to cover, and no two of these hybrids are built for the same driver. At Toyota of Abilene, we get asked constantly which hybrid actually makes sense for a given lifestyle, so we put together this guide to break down every hybrid Toyota currently sells, organized by body style, along with which model wins in categories like price, size, range, and towing. more Sedans Toyota Corolla Hybrid The Corolla Hybrid is Toyota's smallest and most affordable hybrid sedan, with pricing starting at approximately $25,000. It returns an EPA-estimated 53 mpg city and 46 mpg highway on front-wheel-drive models, making it one of the most efficient and least expensive ways into a new Toyota. Toyota Camry Every 2026 Camry is a hybrid, available in front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive with up to 232 net combined horsepower. Pricing starts at roughly $29,600, and the front-wheel-drive LE is EPA-estimated at up to 51 mpg combined, the highest cited figure of any conventional hybrid Toyota currently sells. Toyota Crown The Crown is a raised, premium sedan sold with two very different personalities. XLE, Limited, and Nightshade grades use the standard hybrid system with 2.5-liter power, standard all-wheel drive, and an EPA-estimated 41 mpg combined. The Platinum grade swaps in Hybrid MAX, a turbocharged setup good for 340 net combined horsepower and 400 lb-ft of torque, at the cost of dropping to roughly 30 mpg combined. Pricing starts around $42,300. Toyota Mirai The Mirai isn't technically a hybrid, it's a hydrogen fuel-cell electric vehicle, but it's worth mentioning here since Toyota groups it with its other electrified sedans. It produces zero tailpipe emissions and is rated around 76/71 MPGe city/highway, with pricing starting near $51,800. Fuel cell vehicles are best suited to areas with hydrogen fueling infrastructure. Hatchbacks Toyota Prius The Prius remains Toyota's efficiency flagship. The base front-wheel-drive grade is EPA-estimated at an outstanding 57 mpg combined, the best fuel economy figure of any model in this guide. Pricing starts in the neighborhood of $28,500 to $29,700 depending on the source and trim. Toyota Prius Plug-in Hybrid Formerly known as Prius Prime, the Prius Plug-in Hybrid adds a larger battery and a charging port. The SE grade is EPA-estimated at 52 mpg combined with roughly 44 miles of all-electric range and 127 MPGe combined when running on battery power. Pricing starts around $33,800 to $35,000. This is the right pick for anyone who can charge at home or work and wants to run errands on electricity while keeping full gas-engine range for road trips. Compact Crossovers and SUVs Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid Sitting between the Corolla Hybrid sedan and the RAV4, the Corolla Cross Hybrid offers a higher seating position, standard Electronic On-Demand all-wheel drive, and 196 net combined horsepower. It returns a manufacturer-estimated 42 mpg combined, with pricing starting around $29,600. Toyota RAV4 Hybrid Toyota's best-selling model is now hybrid-only. The redesigned RAV4 produces 226 horsepower in front-wheel drive or 236 horsepower with all-wheel drive, is the first Toyota to get the newest Toyota Safety Sense 4.0 suite, and starts at roughly $31,900. It's the standard-bearer for compact SUV buyers who want cargo space and higher ground clearance without giving up strong fuel economy. Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid The plug-in version of the RAV4 uses a larger battery than the outgoing model for extended electric range, with DC fast charging available on certain grades. Pricing runs well above the standard RAV4 Hybrid, with the top XSE plug-in grade starting near $48,700. This is the pick for someone who wants SUV utility with the option to commute on electricity alone. Toyota Crown Signia The Crown Signia is a hybrid-only crossover with wagon-like proportions, aimed at buyers who want a raised seating position and upscale styling without stepping into a truck-based SUV. Pricing starts around $44,500. Three-Row and Larger SUVs Toyota Highlander Hybrid Highlander Hybrid comes in XLE, Limited, and Platinum grades, all with standard Electronic On-Demand all-wheel drive. It seats up to seven standard, or eight with the optional second-row bench, and is rated at a manufacturer-estimated 35 mpg combined. Pricing starts around $48,000. Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid The Grand Highlander is the larger, roomier alternative to the Highlander, with up to 97.5 cubic feet of cargo space and seating for seven or eight. The standard 2.5-liter hybrid is rated at a manufacturer-estimated 34 mpg combined and starts around $45,200. Buyers who want more performance can step up to Grand Highlander Hybrid MAX, which jumps to 362 horsepower and a 5,000-pound tow rating, though combined fuel economy drops to roughly 27 mpg. Toyota 4Runner i-FORCE MAX The redesigned 4Runner's i-FORCE MAX hybrid powertrain produces 326 horsepower and 465 lb-ft of torque from a turbocharged 2.4-liter engine, and comes standard on TRD Pro, Trailhunter, and Platinum grades. Pricing for the hybrid starts around $44,700. This is a capability-first hybrid built for trail driving, not a fuel-economy competitor to RAV4 or Prius. Toyota Land Cruiser Every 2026 Land Cruiser sold in the U.S. is a hybrid, using the same 326-horsepower, 465 lb-ft i-FORCE MAX system as the 4Runner, paired with full-time four-wheel drive, locking differentials, and Multi-Terrain Select. It's EPA-estimated at 23 mpg combined and starts around $57,900. Land Cruiser prioritizes durable off-road hardware over fuel economy. Toyota Sequoia Every 2026 Sequoia uses Toyota's twin-turbo V6 i-FORCE MAX hybrid system, producing 437 horsepower and 583 lb-ft of torque, with towing capacity up to 9,520 pounds. Pricing starts around $65,000. Sequoia is the biggest, most powerful, and most capable SUV in Toyota's hybrid lineup. Minivan Toyota Sienna Every 2026 Sienna is a hybrid, and it's the only hybrid-exclusive minivan in its class. It produces 245 net combined horsepower, seats seven or eight depending on configuration, and is EPA-estimated at up to 36 mpg combined on front-wheel-drive models, good for an estimated range of roughly 648 miles per tank. All-wheel drive is available, and every properly equipped Sienna can tow up to 3,500 pounds. Pricing starts around $42,400. Trucks Toyota Tacoma i-FORCE MAX Tacoma's i-FORCE MAX hybrid produces 326 horsepower and 465 lb-ft of torque, is standard on TRD Pro and Trailhunter and available on TRD Sport, TRD Off-Road, and Limited, and includes a standard 2,400-watt AC power supply in the cabin and bed for camping or job-site use. It's EPA-estimated at 23 mpg combined, and pricing starts around $47,000. Toyota Tundra i-FORCE MAX Tundra's i-FORCE MAX pairs a twin-turbo V6 with an electric motor for 437 net combined horsepower and 583 lb-ft of torque, the same output as Sequoia. Toyota lists a maximum towing capacity of up to 12,000 pounds for the Tundra lineup, the highest of any Toyota hybrid. Hybrid Tundra pricing runs well above the base gas truck; exact starting price depends heavily on cab, bed, and trim, so it's worth speaking with our sales team for a specific configuration. Which Toyota Hybrid Is the Best? It Depends on What You Need Best fuel economy: The Prius leads the entire lineup at an EPA-estimated 57 mpg combined. If maximum miles per gallon is the only priority, this is the answer. Best for long-distance and road-trip driving: The Camry offers nearly Prius-level efficiency (up to 51 mpg combined) with a roomier cabin, a bigger trunk, and a more comfortable ride for hours behind the wheel. For families who need three rows on a long trip, the Sienna's estimated 648-mile range per tank is hard to beat. Cheapest: The Corolla Hybrid, starting at around $25,000, undercuts every other hybrid Toyota sells, including the Prius, by a meaningful margin. Biggest and most spacious: Among SUVs, the Sequoia is the largest and most capable, with three rows and serious towing muscle. Among cars, the Crown and Camry offer the most interior room in the sedan lineup. Best towing capacity: The Tundra i-FORCE MAX tops the lineup at up to 12,000 pounds, ahead of the Sequoia's 9,520 pounds. Most horsepower: Tundra and Sequoia i-FORCE MAX are tied at 437 net combined horsepower, the highest output of any Toyota hybrid. Best off-road capability: Land Cruiser, with full-time four-wheel drive and locking differentials, edges out the 4Runner i-FORCE MAX for dedicated trail use, though both share the same 326-horsepower system. Best for charging at home: The Prius Plug-in Hybrid and RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid are the only two models that let you drive on electricity alone for daily errands while keeping full gasoline range for longer trips. Best for families needing three rows: Grand Highlander Hybrid offers the most cargo and passenger flexibility among midsize SUVs, while the Sienna remains the most fuel-efficient way to move seven or eight people. Find Your Match at Toyota of Abilene With this many hybrids to choose from, the right one really does come down to how you drive. Whether that's a daily commute that rewards every extra mile per gallon, a family that needs three rows and real towing capacity, or a truck that has to work as hard as you do, we have a hybrid built for it. Stop by Toyota of Abilene or contact our sales team to test drive any of the models above and get current pricing for the trim that fits your budget.

Red 2023 Toyota Tundra on Gulf Freeway, Interstate 45 (1-45) in Houston, Tx

The Revival of Bold Colors in Cars - A New Era of Automotive Hues

On International Color Day, we honor the vibrant shades that make our world truly dazzling. Today, though, we’re shifting gears from nature’s hues to the automotive spectrum. Cars—those once monotonous machines—are now embracing color like never before. Gone are the days when white, black, silver, and gray dominated the roads. The automotive world is now buzzing with vibrant oranges, yellows, greens, and blues. It’s as if the rainbow finally decided to rev up the engine! What’s driving this colorful transformation, and which vehicles are at the forefront of this trend? A Flashback to the Glory Days of Colorful Cars Bright car colors aren't new. In the 1920s, cars boasted vibrant shades like two-tone blues, fiery reds, and dazzling greens, thanks to paint innovations from companies like General Motors and DuPont. These cars weren’t just transportation—they were rolling art. By the 1930s, metallic paints even used real fish scales, creating colors like "Fish Silver Blue." Over time, practicality and global events dulled the color palette. From the muted tones of the Great Depression to Henry Ford’s famous line—“Any customer can have a car painted any color that he wants so long as it is black”—cars shifted to safer, more subdued shades. Today, grayscale still dominates, with white, black, gray, and silver consistently topping the charts. Why? It’s practical, good for resale, and, let’s face it, a little boring. Why Colors Are Making a Comeback The tide is turning. Younger generations are pushing carmakers to add more personality to their palettes. Drivers no longer want to blend into a sea of neutral tones—they’re craving self-expression, and car manufacturers are finally listening. From sleek oranges to retro greens, vibrant car colors are making a comeback, helping drivers stand out and add joy to their ride. A bold color can turn an ordinary car into something exciting. Plus, rare shades like yellow and green often have higher resale value. Exciting Car Colors and Models to Watch Here’s where things get really fun. Automakers are introducing shades that not only turn heads but redefine car paint as high art. Here are some of the most exciting standout models of 2025 cementing this trend: 1. Toyota Prius Prime – Maximum Yellow Toyota is proving that hybrids don’t have to be dull with the Prius Prime’s bold "Maximum Yellow." Bright, energetic, and unapologetically loud, this shade shouts personality and eco-conscious confidence from every angle. It’s a color for drivers who crave attention while making sustainable choices. 2. Chevrolet Corvette – Hysteria Purple Metallic For those who want their ride to exude luxury and power with a splash of creativity, Chevrolet’s Corvette in “Hysteria Purple Metallic” is perfection. This deep, rich purple sparkles under the sun, making it a statement piece for adrenaline junkies with style. 3. Toyota Supra – Stratosphere Blue The Toyota Supra has always been about speed and sleek design. Add “Stratosphere Blue” into the mix, and suddenly its reputation gets a vibrant upgrade. This shimmering blue suggests calm and control mixed with a sense of limitless possibility. 4. Chevrolet Camaro – Panther Black Matte While black isn’t typically described as “bold,” the Chevrolet Camaro’s “Panther Black Matte” challenges convention. Its matte finish transforms a classic color into a modern, edgy masterpiece. For those who want understated drama, this one’s for you. 5. Toyota Tundra – Solar Octane The Toyota Tundra is rugged and reliable, designed for tough terrains and endless adventure. Now it’s also … neon orange? Yep. The “Solar Octane” option ensures this truck is impossible to miss, radiating an infectious energy that matches its performance. 6. BMW XM – Urban Green BMW’s “Urban Green” for the XM model nostalgic nods to earthy tones without being dull. It's perfect for drivers who want to evoke nature while exuding sophistication on city streets. A strong yet calming green, this shade balances urban chic with outdoor flair. Why Car Colors Are More Than Just Looks Car colors are more influential than you might think. Vibrant hues are gaining popularity for several reasons. They allow drivers to express themselves and stand out, while bold colors reflect cultural trends like optimism and individuality. Rare colors like yellow or green often have higher resale value, and iconic car colors create lasting memories—think of your favorite childhood car. Was it red, blue, or green? These colors leave an impression. A New Era of Color on the Road International Color Day celebrates how vibrant hues bring life to the world around us. This love for bold colors is even shaping car design, as automakers embrace creativity and individuality with exciting new palettes that make every drive extraordinary. From the energizing yellows of the Toyota Prius to the rugged fun of the Toyota Tundra, 2025 is the year to break free from dull grays and choose a car that reflects your personality. What color will you pick for your next car? Visit Toyota of Abilene to explore our lineup of colorful Toyota vehicles. Test drive a car that stands out and delivers exceptional safety and value. Find your perfect match—new or certified pre-owned —at Toyota of Abilene today!

Toyota_2025-Corolla-Cross_Hybrid_XSE_WindChillPearl

Head-to-Head: 2025 Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid vs. 2025 Subaru Crosstrek – Which Subcompact SUV is Your Perfect Match?

In the competitive subcompact SUV class, the 2025 Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid and 2025 Subaru Crosstrek shine as top choices. Both vehicles cater to various lifestyles and feature standout qualities, making them favorites among small SUV buyers and crossover enthusiasts. Whether you're after off-road adventure, impressive fuel efficiency, or ample cargo room, both the Corolla Cross Hybrid and the Crosstrek offer great value. This in-depth comparison examines their unique advantages to help you choose the perfect fit for your needs. Performance & Powertrains Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid The Corolla Cross Hybrid blends efficiency and performance with its hybrid powertrain. Utilizing a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine and electric motor, it generates a combined rating of 196 horsepower. With an EPA-rated fuel economy of 45/38/32 mpg (city/highway/combined), the Corolla Cross Hybrid makes a compelling case for buyers prioritizing superb gas mileage. The hybrid system means quieter operation during low speeds, enhancing its appeal for urban drivers. Subaru Crosstrek The Subaru Crosstrek offers versatility with two engine variants. The base and Premium trims are powered by a 2.0-liter engine, producing 152 horsepower, while the Sport, Limited, and Wilderness trims get a more powerful 2.5-liter engine with 182 horsepower. While this doesn’t scream power, it’s satisfactory for commuting or light adventuring. Pair this with Subaru’s renowned all-wheel drive (AWD) standard on all trims, and the Crosstrek is ready for most terrains. While fuel economy isn’t its strongest suit, the Crosstrek delivers a respectable 27 mpg city/34 mpg highway in its base configuration. Interior Features & Cargo Space Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid On the inside, the Corolla Cross Hybrid balances simplicity with functionality. Its dashboard features an intuitive 8-inch touchscreen and includes Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, plus SiriusXM as standard. The cabin’s materials are durable rather than luxurious, which aligns with its affordability. When it comes to cargo space, the Corolla Cross offers an impressive 24 cubic feet behind the back row or even more when the seats are folded flat, letting road-trip aspirations become reality. Subaru Crosstrek The Crosstrek comes with an equally practical yet slightly rugged interior. Higher trims offer leather-trimmed seating and a larger 11.6-inch touchscreen in Sport models and up. Standard features include wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Subaru pulls ahead with utility and space, offering 20 cubic feet of cargo area with the seats up, which expands to 55 cubic feet when folded down. While slightly more interior space than the Corolla Cross isn’t a massive difference, it does benefit drivers with a greater need to transport gear or luggage frequently. Safety and Driver Assistance On the safety front, both vehicles are neck-and-neck, reflecting high standards across the subcompact SUV market. Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid The Corolla Cross Hybrid comes with Toyota Safety Sense, a robust suite of driver assistance features including adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, automated emergency braking, road sign detection, and automatic high-beam assist. Toyota’s reputation for delivering affordable yet reliable safety equipment ensures that even hybrid trims provide confidence on the road. Subaru Crosstrek Subaru counters with the EyeSight driver-assistance system, which is also standard. Features like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, automated emergency braking, and a rearview camera ensure attentiveness during your drives. Though the IIHS and NHTSA have consistently given positive safety feedback to both rivals, Subaru’s off-road assist modes provide extra security for adventurers tackling uneven paths. Value & Pricing If price is a deciding factor, the Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid keeps slightly more money in your wallet with a starting MSRP of $28,395. Meanwhile, the Subaru Crosstrek begins at $27,115, but the trims offering AWD-standard capabilities and engine upgrades can quickly push that figure to around $33,000 for premium options like the Wilderness trim. Which Subcompact SUV Fits You Best? Both the 2025 Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid and the 2025 Subaru Crosstrek make a solid case on their own. Choose the Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid if fuel efficiency, tech-forward simplicity, and cargo space are your priorities. Opt for the Subaru Crosstrek if adventure-ready AWD, smoother handling on rugged terrain, and spacious versatility align more with your lifestyle. But why take our word for it? See for yourself the comfort and quality that Toyota can offer. Visit Toyota of Abilene to test drive the 2025 Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid today and experience the feeling behind the wheel firsthand! We have a variety of new 2025 Toyota Corolla Cross available to choose from and experts to make the buying process a breeze! We look forward to seeing you at Toyota of Abilene in Taylor County!

Service Directions