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2025 toyota rav4 hybrid

What Makes the 2025 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid One of the Best Eco-Friendly SUVs?

The 2025 Toyota RAV4 is a precision-engineered, ruggedly capable compact SUV, designed with sporty performance and everyday utility in mind. Peppy, Efficient Powertrain The beating heart of the RAV4 Hybrid is a 2.5-liter Dynamic Force 4-cylinder engine paired with an electronically controlled continuously variable transmission. Electric drive motors at the front and rear complete a hybrid powertrain that delivers a spirited 219 net combined hp through the standard electric all-wheel drive drivetrain. This advanced powertrain configuration is as efficient as it is powerful. EPA estimates have the RAV4 Hybrid rated for 41 mpg in the city, 38 mpg on the highway, for 39 mpg combined. Intelligent Driving Engineering Five distinct drive modes allow you to tailor the RAV4 Hybrid's driving dynamics for optimized performance in different conditions or to simply give you the ride you're in the mood for. Choose between ECO, EV, TRAIL, SPORT, and NORMAL modes to enjoy the perfect RAV4 Hybrid experience for your needs. Striking Design The chiseled body of the RAV4 Hybrid projects a rugged aggressiveness not always found with modern compact SUVs, while also boasting unmistakable refinement. Standard 17-inch 5-spoke alloy wheels on the base-tier Hybrid LE trim grant the vehicle an athletic stance, while its black hexagon-patterned bar front grille, flanked by LED headlights, serves up a distinctive, instantly identifiable front fascia. The overall profile of the vehicle is crafted to maximize the performance of the 219-hp hybrid powertrain. Aerodynamic underbody panels with vortex generators, front and rear wheel spats, active grille shutters, and an integrated rear spoiler all serve to create a sleek and efficient body. Couple this intelligent underbody design with up to 8.1 inches of ground clearance, and you have a nimble compact SUV able to comfortably tackle uneven terrain. Elegant, Practical Interior The cabin is comfortable and spacious, with a 6-way adjustable driver's seat and 4-way adjustable passenger seat as standard. Rear passengers are assured comfort too, thanks to a roomy 37.8 inches of legroom and available heated seats on higher trims. The demands of modern life mean SUVs need to be as adept at moving cargo as they are passengers. With 37.6 cubic feet of cargo volume in the rear and a maximum cargo volume of a cavernous 69.8 cubic feet on offer courtesy of the RAV4 Hybrid's 60/40 split reclining fold-flat rear seat, you have the space to tackle any task, from getting the groceries to loading up for a weekend adventure. Ready to experience the RAV4 Hybrid for yourself? Contact Balise Toyota in West Springfield, MA today and arrange a test drive.

2018 Toyota C-HR

Get Behind the Wheel of the 2018 Toyota C-HR

If you want the best and newest vehicle around, it's time to check out the 2018 Toyota C-HR. This brand new crossover offers a variety of fun features, it's stylish, and it's already turning heads. Check out what makes the Toyota C-HR your next new vehicle. Stylish Exterior The beautiful lines and unique styling of the 2018 C-HR offer a look unlike anything else you'll find on the market. The low profile is not what you'd expect from a crossover, but it works well with the overall look and feel. You can choose between nine different exterior color options, allowing you to customize your new vehicle how you want. You'll get amazing exterior features, as well, such as color-keyed sport front and rear bumpers and aerodynamic rear fins with a rear spoiler.  The C-HR vortex-styled 18-inch sport alloy wheels are fun and unique, helping the overall look of the car come together. Under the Hood When you're choosing a vehicle it's good to know what it has under the hood. The 2018 Toyota C-HR offers a 2.0-liter four-cylinder DOHC 16-valve engine with Valvematic technology. This engine gets 144 horsepower and 139 pound-feet of torque. The engine works with a continuously variable transmission with intelligence and shift mode to give you a comfortable drive every time you hit the road. This crossover offers normal, sport, and ECO driving modes. In addition, you'll get an independent MacPherson strut front suspension and double-wishbone rear suspension to help keep your ride as smooth as possible. Interior Features Your new C-HR offers outstanding interior features to keep you comfortable and entertained throughout your drive. You'll get dual-zone automatic climate control as a standard feature. The six-way adjustable driver's and front passenger's seats allow you to get positioned just right. The entertainment system features a 7-inch touchscreen display, six speakers, a USB port, and Aha radio compatibility. The Bluetooth wireless technology allows for voice recognition, as well as phone access and music streaming. As an optional feature you can get the Smart Key System allowing for push button start, remote keyless entry system, and remote illuminated entry. Safety Features Have peace of mind wherever you drive with the safety features that come standard and available in the C-HR. This vehicle comes standard with Toyota Safety Sense P, which features a pre-collision system, lane departure alert, steering assist, pedestrian detection, dynamic radar cruise control, and automatic high beams. There are ten air bags throughout the vehicle to help keep you safe. If there are children in the car, you'll appreciate the child protector rear door locks and the LATCH system for child safety seats. Optional safety features include a blond spot monitor and rear cross traffic alert. When you're considering a new car for yourself or the family this year, make sure to check out the newly redesigned 2018 Toyota C-HR. You'll get a smooth ride, a spacious cabin, and all the features you want. If you're still not sure, schedule a test drive today to find out more about the C-HR and how it fits in your life. Image via toyota.com

2017 Toyota Prius

Comparing the 4 Prius Models

If you've already decided you want to get a Prius, that's great. However, now you have to choose between the Prius, Prius c, Prius v, and Prius Prime. Each of these models has a number of benefits that you'll love, though not all are right for every person. Prius The Prius offers seven trim levels — One, Two, Two Eco, Three, Three Touring, Four, and Four Touring. The One, which is the base-level trim starts at a base MSRP of $23,475. The Four Touring starts at a base of $30,015. This is a mid-size sedan, offering room and seating for up to five. You'll get a 1.8-liter four-cylinder aluminum DOHC 16-valve VVT-i engine. The Prius gets an overall hybrid system net power of 121 horsepower. You'll also see up to an EPA-estimated 58 miles per gallon city and 53 mpg highway, depending on the trim level you choose. Prius c When choosing the Prius c, you can select the One, Two, Three, or Four trims. The One starts at a base MSRP of $20,150, while the Four starts at $24,965. This is the smallest of the Prius options. It has a hatchback style on all trim levels. There is seating for five, though four fit more comfortably in the Prius c. In this model, you'll get a 1.5-liter aluminum DOHC 16-valve VVT-i engine, which gets 99 hybrid system net horsepower. Even though the Prius c is smaller than the Prius, it gets slightly lower gas mileage, with an EPA-estimated 48 mpg city and 43 mpg highway. Prius v If you need the most space possible in your Prius, consider the four trims of the Prius v. Choose between the Two, Three, Four, or Five. The Two starts at a base MSRP of $26,675, while the Five starts at $30,935. This model looks a lot like the standard Prius, though it has an enlarged trunk area for more cargo. You'll get a 1.8-liter aluminum DOHC 16-valve VVT-iengine offering 134 hybrid system horsepower. With seating and room for five, the Prius v offers great fuel efficiency for the family, with an EPA-estimated 43 mpg city and 39 mpg highway. Prius Prime The Prius Prime offers efficient and optimized technology as a plug-in hybrid vehicle. It is available in three trim levels — Plus, Premium, and Advanced. The Plus trim starts at a base MSRP of $27,100, while the Advanced starts at a base MSRP of $33,100. The sedan is stylish and offers room for five. You'll get a 1.8-liter four-cylinder aluminum DOHC 16-valve VVT-i engine, which offers a combined system power of 121 horsepower. In hybrid mode, this car gets an EPA-estimated 55 mpg city and 53 mpg highway. However, the EPA-estimated MPGe is 133 miles. There are so many possibilities and options when you're choosing a Prius. No matter which model you choose, you'll save money at the gas pump, enjoy your drive, and get a vehicle full of outstanding tech features. Come in and check out the different Prius models today, and schedule a test drive of your favorites. Image via Dealeron

Walking in Park

The 4 Most Beautiful Outdoor Spots Near West Springfield

If you're looking for somewhere to get outside and enjoy the weather, West Springfield and the surrounding area offer a number of great outdoor spots. Check out the parks, green spaces, and more around the city this spring and summer. You may be surprised at the variety of options you can find. Robinson State Park Right outside of West Springfield you'll find Robinson State Park. The park is located at 428 North St. in Feeding Hills. Daily parking costs $8 for MA-licensed vehicles or $10 for non-MA vehicles. With over 800 acres of land, there's something for everyone at Robinson State Park. There are over 20 miles of trails for hikers, bikers, and horseback riders. Other activities in the park include fishing, canoeing, swimming, and more. With options for everyone, this is a great option for families, friends, or to visit by yourself. There are picnicking areas, so bring along a lunch to make your day even more enjoyable. Chicopee Memorial State Park Another beautiful outdoor spot around West Springfield is Chicopee Memorial State Park. Parking is $8 for MA vehicles or $10 for non-MA vehicles. The park features 575 acres and includes a beautiful 25-acre pond. With options for group day use, you can find something for everyone here. There are accessible beaches, biking and hiking trails, picnic spots, and swimming spots. Sometimes during the weekends or on holidays, Chicopee Memorial State Park hits their allowable capacity, so make sure if you're planning the day at the park you get here early. Balise Scion Skate Park Located off of Morton Street in West Springfield, you'll find Balise Scion Skate Park. This park opened in 2007 and was made possible by a donation from BALISE. The only wheeled devices allowed at the skate park are skateboards and in-line skates. Keep in mind that this is a non-supervised area, so it's important to skate at your own risk and wear proper protective equipment, such as helmets, elbow pads, and knee pads. Balise Scion Skate Park is open from 9 a.m. to dusk every day and is free to the public. However, skating when it is wet or rainy is prohibited. Garden Plots The West Springfield Park and Recreation Department, working alongside the Department of Public Works, offers residents 16-foot by 20-foot garden plots in Mittineague Park. Plots are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Only one plot is available per person or family unit, and those not planted before June 5 will be reassigned. Garden space is $25 for the season for residents or $30 for non-residents of West Springfield. This is a great option for anyone looking to spend some time outside regularly throughout the spring and summer. Make the most of the warm months this year by exploring the beauty of the outdoor spaces around West Springfield. Whether you're heading out for a one-day adventure or you're planning a garden for the summer, these spots around the area allow you to get out and enjoy everything that nature has to offer. Image via pixabay.com

Italian Food

Where to Eat in Springfield, MA

No matter what you're hungry for, you'll find something amazing to eat in Springfield. The food here is outstanding, and with a huge variety of options, you'll always have something new to try. Take some time to check out the best restaurants in the city with your family, friends, or significant other tonight. Frigo's Located at 90 William Street in Springfield, Frigo's is one of the local favorites. They are option Monday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Tuesday through Saturday 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. With 65 types of pasta, 25 Italian deli meats, and 75 different cheeses, Frigos has what you need to satisfy your Italian craving. With nearly 30 different sandwiches on their menu, you can get just about anything you want. They also offer prepared food that you can pick up and take home, such as chicken Franciase or eggplant parmesan. Grab some specialty cheese or olive oil while you're here, as well. Eat If you're in the mood for some comfort food, check out Eat at 609 Page Blvd in Springfield. They are open Monday through Saturday from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. and offer some of the best breakfast and lunch options around. For breakfast, grab a three-egg omelet, a breakfast sandwich, or Belgian waffles. The lunch menu offers options such as foot-long hot dogs, specialty sandwiches, and hamburgers. Food is all fresh and made to order, and the staff is friendly. The prices are extremely reasonable here, with entrees priced under $10. Chef Wayne's Big Mamou Head to 63 Liberty Street in Springfield for Chef Wayne's Big Mamou. This restaurant is open Monday through Thursday 11 a.m. to 8:30 p.m., Friday 11 ..m. to 9:30 p.m., Saturday noon to 9:30 p.m., and Sunday 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. You'll love the Cajun food offered here, with appetizers such as Louisiana fried oysters, Bourbon Street corn bread, and crab cakes Natchitoches. Entrees include Chicken Mississippi, shrimp-n-sausage jambalaya, and Bayou meat loaf. Don't forget dessert, such as sweet potato pie, deep dish bourbon pecan pie, or classic New Orleans bread pudding with whiskey sauce. Theodore's Booze, Blues, & BBQ If you want delicious BBQ, look no further than 201 Worthington St in Springfield. Here you'll find Theodore's Booze, Blues, & BBQ. The restaurant is open Monday through Friday 11 a.m. to 2 a.m., Saturday 5 p.m. to 2 a.m., and Sunday 4 p.m. to 2 a.m. Start your meal with corn fritters, burnt ends, or deep fried pickle spears. Bar-b-que options include beef brisket, pulled pork, hot links, or half a chicken. Sides such as garlic mashed potatoes, sweet potato fries, collard greens, and corn bread are all available. You can also choose any of their rib combos. Whether you want comfort food or something to spice up your mouth, check out the amazing restaurants around Springfield. These delicious meals are great for any time of the year, and offer a variety of breakfast, lunch, and dinner options. Whether you're heading out for a special occasion or just because, you'll love the food you find. Image via pixabay.com

Washing Car

4 Car Care Products You Can DIY

Keeping your car clean and in good condition is a big job that can get expensive quickly. Although you should take your car to the dealer for a once-over and regular maintenance several times a year, there are also some money-saving tricks you can do at home to keep your vehicle in good condition. Here are some car care products you can DIY. Window Cleaner While you can always use any old window or glass cleaner on your car's windows and windshield, there are some household products you can turn into window cleaners if you don't have Windex handy. You can get rid of streaks and spots on your windshield by using cola. Just pour some over the surface, and the bubbles in the soda will work away at the grime. Just make sure to put a towel down at the base of the glass to protect the paint, and make sure to clean it thoroughly when you finish, so it doesn't leave a sticky syrup behind. Stain Remover You can also get rid of stubborn stains on car upholstery by using household items. Mix equal parts of vinegar and water in a spray bottle, and spray the concoction on the stain. Let it sit for a while, then take a wet cloth and blot it. This solution also works on your chrome rims. Just spray it on your wheels and work it in using a sponge or cloth. Make sure to give it a few minutes and then rinse it off. Repeat a few times on stubborn dirt stains. Tire Cleaner Use a mixture of baking soda and water to clean your tires. Use just enough water to form a paste with the baking soda, and then work it into the tires using a scrub brush. Let it sit on the tires for a few minutes before using a hose to rinse it off. You can also use baking soda to get rid of odors inside the car. Just sprinkle some on the seats and the floor mats, and let it sit for at least a few hours or even overnight. After it has worked its magic, you can vacuum it up. Carpet Cleaner Baking soda can clean all kinds of surfaces in your vehicle. You can also mix it with vinegar and water to form a paste that will get tough stains out of the carpets. Use a toothbrush or scrub brush to work it into the carpet, and wait for it to dry. Once it is completely dry, just vacuum it up, and the stains will disappear. You can repeat the process if needed for tougher, ground-in stains. There is no reason to spend a bunch of money on cleaning products when you can create your own right at home. Most of the products you need are already in your closet, or they are inexpensive and easy to find at the grocery store. Image via pixabay.com

Flower Garden

Best Springfield Parks to Explore This Spring

Spring is a great time to get outside and enjoy the fresh air. Winters in Massachusetts are cold, and many areas see not only inches but feet of snow. Most of the area parks stay open through the winter, but when the temperatures start to rise and the snow starts to melt, it's fun to head to a local park to enjoy the nice weather. Here are some of the best Springfield Parks to explore this spring. Stanley Park Stanley Park is a large park in Westfield that is open year-round and is free to the public. It covers more than 300 acres and includes beautiful gardens, fields for a variety of sports, pavilions for picnics, and walking and hiking trails. A natural spring-fed duck pond is home to ducks, fish, and swans. Sit on one of the benches along the shore, or walk around the pond to take it all in. There is also a wildlife sanctuary at Stanley Park. The managed trails feature native trees, flowers, and plant life as well as birds and other wildlife. All the trails are well-marked, and you can get a map to follow if you want to explore. Forest Park Springfield is home to Forest Park, one of the largest municipal parks in the United States. It has plenty of open space, a playground for the kids, and several picnic areas with outdoor grilling. Head to Forest Park to play on the soccer field, the football field, or the tennis court, or sit on the sidelines and watch a game. This is also home to the Forest Park Zoo, which has monkeys, birds, large cats, and other animals. Other fun features of Forest Park include America's first swimming pool, which originally opened in 1899, ponds to walk around, and an exhibit featuring ancient dinosaur tracks. You can get to the park by the entrance on Sumner Avenue or Trafton Road, or you can enter from Route 5 and the Longmeadow Line. The Dr. Seuss Sculpture Garden If you want a different kind of park to explore, the Dr. Seuss National Memorial Sculpture Garde n at the Springfield Museums is a great place to spend the afternoon. This garden celebrates Dr. Suess in the city where he was born. His wife partnered with the Museums to create the special garden after his death in 1991. Here, you'll find a sculpture of Dr. Seuss himself, along with some of his most memorable characters. Visit Horton Court where you'll find Sam-I-Am serving up his green eggs and ham and Horton the Elephant. Make sure to look closely at his trunk though. The clover blossom holds a tiny ball that represents Whoville. These are some of the parks and places that are fun to explore in the Springfield area in the spring. Pack a lunch and your good walking or hiking shoes, and get outside with the family to enjoy the nice New England weather. Image via pixabay.com

2017 Toyota Prius V

Does a Prius V or Prius C Suit You Better?

The Toyota Prius is the most popular alternative fuel vehicle on the market today. For more than 10 years the Prius lineup included just one vehicle, but over the past few years, Toyota has added several new versions. The Prius v and the Prius c are now part of the family. Here is some information about both so you can choose the one that suits you best. The Exterior From the outside, the Prius v and the Prius c are very different. The Prius c is the smallest vehicle in the lineup, and it comes only in a hatchback body style, but it has an edgier design. The Prius v is the model's larger version and has enough room for both passengers and cargo. The Prius v's exterior design looks different from the other models because it gets rid of the arched shape to make room in the back for the larger cargo area. The Prius v has more than 34 cubic feet of cargo space, and the Prius c has 17.1 cubic feet of cargo space. Interior Inside the Prius v, you'll find soft and comfortable SofTex trimmed seats that are lighter than genuine leather. This model comes with an eight-way power adjustable driver's seat and the Smart Key system with a push button start. The rear seats in the v have a power recline and sliding feature to maximize the amount of space in the vehicle. The Prius c features a fun two-toned fabric upholstery and the option to add a moonroof. Technology Choose the Prius c or the v for a premium Entune audio system that comes with integrated navigation. It also features app integration so you can use mobile apps such as Pandora and Open Table while on the go. Both models have a high-resolution touch-screen display, and they come with Bluetooth connectivity. The Prius c adds a touch tracer display that features a duplicate image of the steering wheel controls on the Multimedia display so you can see the buttons without having to take your eyes off the road. Safety The Prius v comes with seven air bags, and the c comes with nine. The v also adds whiplash-injury-lessening front seats. These seats have a special design that helps reduce the motion differential between the passenger's head and torso in a rear-end collision, minimizing injury during the crash. The Prius c's design includes crumple zones that help absorb energy in the event of a crash. Fuel Efficiency Both models are extremely fuel-efficient. You can get up to 48 miles per gallon on the Prius c and 43 miles per gallon in the Prius v. The biggest difference between these two vehicles is the size and the amount of cargo space. If you need more room, whether for people or gear, the Prius v is your answer. If you want a smaller footprint, then the Prius c is the one for you. Image via Dealeron

Spelling of Children

4 Shops for Baby Gear in Springfield

Whether you are expecting your first child and are starting to collect baby gear or you already have children and they need more stuff, you can find it in the Springfield area. The town has a good combination of local boutiques where you can find one-of-a-kind items and larger stores where you can get everything you need in one stop. Here are four shops where you can find baby gear in Springfield. Once Upon A Child Once Upon A Child in West Springfield buys and sells gently used kids items. They sell all kinds of gear from name brand clothing to shoes and toys. This is a great place to go to stock up on almost anything. You'll find clothes from Gap, Old Navy, and Gymboree, and the shop carries clothes and footwear for all seasons. You can also find gear such as high chairs, booster seats, swings, bouncy chairs, and even potty seats for potty training. You'll find Once Upon A Child on Riverdale Street in West Springfield. Hurley's Children's Cottage Located just outside Springfield on Boston Road in Wilbraham, Hurley's Children's Cottage is another store that buys and sells used children's items. Here you can find a huge selection of clothes and shoes in great condition. Everything is clean and well-organized so you can easily find what you need. Hurley's also sells toys, blankets, and gear at a fraction of the original cost. Toys R Us Head to the Toys R Us in Haymarket Square to stock up on all your baby gear. This large chain store offers everything from clothes to strollers, toys, and more. If you are just getting started in parenthood and need to buy staples such as a car seat, this is a good place to go. Toys R Us has a variety of child safety seats and booster seats, as well as other crucial items you need to keep your baby safe and happy. You can also register at Toys R Us so your friends and family can help you get what you need. Ask a store employee for information about setting up a gift registry for a baby shower. Toy Orchard Toy Orchid is a small toy store on Boston Post Road in Wilbraham. The owners are friendly and helpful. This is a great place to go when you want to find a special gift or toy for your child or a birthday present for a friend's child. You can explore two floors filled with toys and games, and when you find what you're looking for, the staff will gift wrap it for you. Browse through the shelves of plush toys, educational toys, and toys that encourage imaginative play. There is even a room in the back that you can book for birthday parties. Getting ready for a new baby is an exciting time, but it requires a lot of purchases and preparation. Stop by one of these shops to get some of your baby gear. Image via pixabay.com

2017 Toyota Highlander

4 Must-Have Car Features for Retirees

As a retiree, you've already spent a lot of your life working in challenging situations. You need your car to provide a stress-free and comfortable experience that allows you to enjoy your retirement in style. Fancy technological gadgets or features are much less important than a car that is safe, comfortable, and clutter-free. If you are a retiree or senior citizen in the market for a new motor vehicle to enjoy your retirement in, keep reading to find out about four of the most helpful features you should seek out. Comfort You need to find a car that has a fully adjustable driver's seat. Comfort is of paramount importance, and you don't want to risk exacerbating existing injuries or strains due to poor posture in the car. You should look for a car that you feel comfortable sitting in, and testing any prospective vehicles out before you commit to buying them is vital. You should also make sure that the material of the driver's seat feels cushioned enough to sit on for extended periods without causing any discomfort. Safety The list of safety features included as standard with modern cars grows with each model year, and some of them are less useful than others. Senior drivers should be searching for safety features such as a rear backup camera, which displays an image of what is lurking behind your car on a screen on the dashboard. The rear backup camera is incredibly handy in case you don't have the flexibility to constantly turn your head to check for any cars or objects behind you when driving in reverse. Clutter-free controls Modern cars tend to be manufactured with a lot of emphasis on providing a plethora of controls to drivers that can be difficult to navigate. If you're in the market for a new car as a retiree, you'll want a vehicle that minimizes clutter on the dashboard and provides larger, more accessible controls to alter settings such as air conditioning and radio stations. Changing the basic settings should not require effort; you're looking for a hassle-free driving experience and having easy access to controls plays a huge part in providing a good driving experience. Varied color choices Despite the importance of minimizing superfluous technological features and clutter inside the car, like anyone else in the market for a new car, you still want something that looks good. Modern cars should be available in a variety of different colors, so you can choose one that best suits your tastes and needs. Impaired night vision tends to affect older people frequently, so finding your car at night time in a busy parking lot can be a real challenge if you choose a dark-colored car. Now that you have a better idea of what to look for in a new car as a senior citizen, the next step is to pay a visit to your local dealership, find a vehicle you like, and take it out on a test drive. Make sure you bargain for the best deal possible! Image via Dealeron

scenery

The Ultimate Daytrip in Springfield, Massachusetts

Springfield is a large city with a plethora of interesting activities and attractions to keep both locals and tourists alike busy. Hoop City— as Springfield is also known — is also the original home of basketball, one of the world's most popular sports. Whether you actually only have a day to visit Springfield, Massachusetts, or you're simply looking to inform yourself of the best attractions that this New England city has to offer, keep reading for a lowdown on the ultimate day trip in Springfield. Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame There is no better way to start a day trip around Springfield than paying a visit to Hoop Hall's Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. The museum contains more than 40,000 feet of basketball history for you to learn about, and you can easily pass two or three hours there. The gorgeous building is itself worth paying a visit to for its distinctive basketball-shaped design that invokes the spirit of the game upon viewing it. There are even skills challenges and shooting contests to partake in, making this place one of Springfield's premier fun-filled tourist attractions. Forest Park After you've had your fair share of basketball-themed fun, you can make your merry way over to Forest Park on Summer Avenue to take in some exquisite natural scenery. Forest Park is perfect for a casual stroll, and if you're hungry, it is worth bringing some takeaway food and sitting down to have a picnic by the lake. The tranquility of this location and the picturesque surroundings make Forest Park one of Springfield's most enjoyable natural attractions. Make sure you dedicate at least an hour of your time to enjoy the park; it'll be worth every second. Springfield Armory National Historic Site Springfield is a great city for history buffs, and the Springfield Armory is by far the best example of the amazing historical sites to be found in the city. Now a museum, the armory was utilized by the United States Armed Forces for over 200 years as a source of precision engineered weapons and other firearms. Weapons made at Springfield Armory were used in every way from the time of the American Revolution until the Vietnam War, so there is an incredible amount of history to explore. You can find the Springfield Armory Historic Site at One Armory Square. Dr. Seuss National Memorial Sculpture Garden Finish off your ultimate day trip in Springfield by visiting this sculpture garden on Edwards Street. The garden provides numerous great photo opportunities, and it makes for a relaxing way to unwind after a long day of taking in Springfield's other important attractions. You can spend 30 to 45 minutes at this fun garden that celebrates the quirky characters created by one of America's most famous writers and artists, who was born in the city of Springfield back in 1904. The attractions here offer a great representation of what Springfield has to offer, and combining them into a day trip will make for an exciting and satisfying snapshot of the best attractions in The City of Firsts. Image via pixabay.com

2017 Toyota Camry

3 Reasons to Test Drive the 2017 Toyota Camry

If you're looking to buy a new car, dedicating the time to take a given vehicle out on a test drive is a big commitment. You need to be sure that there's a good chance you'll love the vehicle before scheduling a test drive in it. The 2017 Toyota Camry is one such vehicle that you should definitely consider taking out on a test drive. Originally manufactured as a compact car in 1982, the Toyota Camry has developed into one of the most reliable and smart mid-size sedans on the market. Keep reading for the lowdown on the 2017 Toyota Camry and why you'll love it. Superb Performance The Toyota Camry comes with two engine options, each of which offers superb performance in what is a competitive class of cars. The standard engine is a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 178 horsepower and 170 lb-ft of torque. An upgrade is available that amps up the power with a V6 engine that delivers 268 horsepower and 248 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are paired with a six-speed automatic transmission that shifts smoothly and efficiently every time. The less powerful engine is steady and brilliantly reliable. The more powerful V6 takes these attributes and adds a real sense of power to the vehicle. Easy Infotainment Car manufacturers have been developing increasingly complex infotainment systems in the last few years that can be difficult to get to grips with, but the 2017 Toyota Camry's Entune system is incredibly easy to use. The 6.1-inch touchscreen is crystal clear and simple to navigate through its options. The Entune system comes with Bluetooth connectivity and, at more expensive trim levels, you can avail of features such as satellite radio and music streaming apps. There is also an available wireless charging pad for your smartphones or other devices, and a USB port is included as standard. The Toyota Camry offers that desirable combination of simplicity and in-depth features with its in-car entertainment. Comfortable Interior Even though the Toyota Camry looks good from the outside, the interior is where it shines. The Camry's interior could best be described as comfortably spacious. The large intuitive buttons and knobs that control the air conditioning and other important functions are all easy to identify and don't require much stretching to reach. A snug fabric trim is included on the seats as standard that holds up to scrutiny even on long distance trips, providing an exceptional level of comfort at all times. A classy leather trim is included in the more expensive XLE Camry for an added level of luxury. There are over 38-inches of headroom and 38.9-inches of legroom for rear seat passengers, which are best-in-class figures. There are eight cup holders on board, all within an arm's reach, meaning you can easily sip your favorite beverage without any sense of awkwardness. Overall, the effort that has gone into developing an incredibly comfortable and roomy interior is evident from the moment you first step into the car. Now that you've read about all the reasons you'll love this vehicle, the next step is to see if the experience matches this and take the 2017 Camry on a test drive. Image via Dealeron

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