Best Used Toyotas for Your Graduate’s First Car

Graduation is a big milestone—and what better way to celebrate than by helping your grad find their first car? Whether they’re commuting to a new job or just need something reliable for errands and weekend adventures, a used Toyota is a smart, safe, and stylish choice. At Spartanburg Toyota, we’ve got a great selection of used Toyotas that fit both your grad’s lifestyle and your budget. Here are a few top picks to get you started:

Toyota Camry

If you're searching for a car that checks all the boxes, a used Toyota Camry might be the one. It's a mid-size sedan with enough space for college gear, work supplies, or weekend road trips. Many recent models come with handy features like a backup camera, LED lights, and Bluetooth—so your grad can stay connected without getting distracted. The Camry is known for its smooth ride and dependable performance, making it a go-to choice for new drivers.

Toyota Corolla

Another great option is a used Toyota Corolla. It’s a little smaller than the Camry, which makes it easier to park and navigate around Spartanburg—perfect for young drivers gaining experience on the road. Depending on the model year, you might find safety features like lane departure alerts, adaptive cruise control, and cross-traffic warning. Plus, with excellent fuel efficiency, the Corolla helps stretch those dollars even further at the pump.

Toyota RAV4

If your grad prefers an SUV, the used Toyota RAV4 is a fantastic pick. It offers the elevated ride height and cargo space of an SUV without being too bulky for new drivers. Many newer models include Toyota Safety Sense, a suite of features designed to help avoid accidents and keep the vehicle centered in its lane. Look for options with smartphone integration too, so they can keep in touch while driving—hands-free, of course.

With split-folding rear seats and available roof racks, the RAV4 also makes packing up for college, moving apartments, or road-tripping with friends a breeze.

Find Your Used Car In Spartanburg

Helping your graduate find the right used car doesn’t have to be stressful. At Spartanburg Toyota, we’re here to make the process simple and rewarding. With plenty of reliable, feature-packed used Toyotas on the lot, you’ll be able to choose a vehicle that gives both you and your grad peace of mind. Come visit us today to browse our used inventory, learn more about warranty options, and even ask about trading in your current vehicle to save more on the perfect first car.

Make The Best Choice For You Between The New Toyota Corolla and the New Toyota Camry

Between the new Toyota Camry and the new Corolla, it's hard to make a bad choice. Both vehicles have long been favorites among drivers for their reliability, fuel efficiency, and stylish design. But if you're trying to find the right Toyota car near Spartanburg, we're here to help! In this blog, we'll compare the new Camry features with the new Corolla features to assist you in making the best decision for your needs. 

Exterior Design and Style 

When it comes to exterior design, both the Camry and Corolla have their unique flair. 

Toyota Camry's Bold Look 

The Toyota Camry is known for its bold and sporty appearance. The newest model features sharp lines, a wide stance, and an aggressive front grille that gives it a modern look. If you want a car that makes a statement on the road, the Camry might be your choice. 

Sleek Simplicity of the Toyota Corolla 

The Toyota Corolla, on the other hand, offers a sleek and simple design. It's perfect for those who prefer a more understated look. The Corolla's exterior is elegantly designed, with smooth contours and a sophisticated grille. This model is ideal if you want a stylish yet subtle presence. 

Interior Comfort and Technology 

Both the Camry and Corolla offer comfortable interiors packed with the latest technology, but there are differences to consider. 

Spacious Camry Cabin 

The Camry provides a spacious and comfortable interior. There's ample legroom for both front and rear passengers, making it an excellent choice for families or those who often have passengers. The Camry also boasts a high-quality interior finish, giving it a more luxurious feel. 

Compact Yet Cozy Corolla 

While the Corolla is slightly more compact, it doesn’t skimp on comfort. The seats are designed for support, and the cabin is thoughtfully arranged to maximize space. If you’re looking for a car that’s easy to maneuver with a cozy interior, the Corolla might be perfect for you. 

Performance and Handling 

Performance is a crucial factor for many car buyers. Let's see how the Camry and Corolla stack up. 

Powerful Camry Performance 

The Toyota Camry is known for its robust performance. It offers several engine options, including a potent V6, which provides a thrilling driving experience. The Camry handles smoothly on highways and city streets, making it a versatile option for various driving conditions. 

Efficient Corolla Performance 

The Corolla is celebrated for its fuel efficiency. It’s equipped with an efficient engine that offers excellent gas mileage, perfect for long commutes or city driving. While it may not have the same power as the Camry, the Corolla makes up for it with its economical and reliable performance. 

Safety Features 

Safety is a top priority for Toyota, and both the Camry and Corolla are equipped with impressive safety features. 

Advanced Safety in the Camry 

The Camry comes with Toyota Safety Sense, a suite of advanced safety features. This includes a pre-collision system, lane departure alert, and adaptive cruise control. The Camry's safety features are designed to keep you and your passengers safe on the road. 

Corolla's Comprehensive Safety System 

The Corolla also includes Toyota Safety Sense, ensuring a safe driving experience. It offers similar features to the Camry, such as automatic high beams and road sign assist. Whether you choose the Camry or Corolla, you can feel confident in your car's safety capabilities. 

Price and Value 

Cost can be a deciding factor when choosing between the Camry and Corolla. 

Camry's Premium Price 

The Camry typically comes with a higher price tag due to its larger size and more powerful engine options. However, it offers great value for those who prioritize performance and luxury features. 

Budget-Friendly Corolla 

The Corolla is usually more budget-friendly, making it an excellent choice for first-time buyers or those looking for an economical vehicle. Despite its lower price, the Corolla does not compromise on quality or features. 

Built for Your Everyday Adventures 

Choosing between the new Toyota Camry and new Corolla truly comes down to your personal preferences and needs. If you value performance, space, and a more luxurious feel, the Camry might be the right choice. However, if you prioritize fuel efficiency, a lower price, and a compact design, the Corolla could be perfect for you. 

Shop For Your New Toyota in Spartanburg Today

Visit Spartanburg Toyota today to test drive both models and see which one feels right for you. Whether you're searching for a Toyota Camry near Greenville or a Toyota Corolla in Greenville, you’re sure to find the perfect fit with our Toyota dealership in Spartanburg. Plus, get a good deal with our new Toyota specials every month! Happy car shopping! 

Which Toyota SUV is Best for Your Family? 

You and your family need a new vehicle, one that’s big enough to seat several people comfortably and stash car seats and supplies while also capable of handling all types of terrain. Toyota SUVs near Greenville have what you’re looking for, and now it’s time to check out the highlights so you can make the right decision for your next set of wheels.  

2024 Toyota Highlander 

Grab the key fob to the new Toyota Highlander if you need a third row of seats to accommodate all members of your family, including the ones who are still in diapers and the furry, four-legged ones. This SUV offers seven-passenger seating, or eight-passenger seating if you choose the Hybrid LE model. With three-zone automatic climate control, everyone can adjust the temperature to their liking, whether they’re sitting in the backseat or riding shotgun. Your passengers can also stash their beverages in the 14 cupholders and bop along to the music playing from the standard six-speaker sound system. 

While behind the leather-wrapped steering wheel of the Highlander, the 18-inch wheels will transport you and your loved ones to your destination. The towing capacity is a maximum of 5,000 pounds, so you can also hitch a trailer to the SUV before you set out on the road. Don’t forget to attach other large belongings to the roof rails and take in the fresh air blowing from the power moonroof. The 2.4-liter, 4-cylinder turbo engine will do the rest, cranking out 275 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. With front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive available, the Highlander is a stylish, reliable choice for everyday commutes with the family. 

2024 Toyota RAV4 

There’s no shortage of outdoor adventures to be had in the Carolinas, so you and the adrenaline lovers in your family will need an SUV that can handle whatever obstacles stand in your path. That’s where the new Toyota RAV4 comes in the picture. Its 2.5-liter, 4-cylinder engine operates with an 8-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive, allowing you to remain stable and shift gears when the road gets bumpy. In the TRD Off-Road configuration, you can alternate driving modes to navigate mud, sand, dirt, and even snow with ease, as well as manage your speed when cruising down a rolling hill.  

The RAV4 is a compact SUV with five-passenger seating, so it’s ideal for smaller families. However, there’s no need to pack light. Flick on the cargo area light and split and fold the rear seats to make more room for all your stuff. 

2024 Toyota 4Runner 

The new Toyota 4Runner is the perfect blend of adventure and family-friendliness. Climb behind the heated steering wheel, rest your head against the active head rest, and allow the 20-inch alloy wheels, exclusive to the Limited model, to get you where you want to go, regardless of the terrain. The mud and snow tires are prepared to clear your path after Mother Nature does her thing. Plus, the 4.0-liter, V-6 engine powers the SUV to keep you moving forward. 

With five-passenger seating across two rows, you can invite children and cousins with you for a comfortable ride. The premium 15-speaker audio system with a subwoofer and amplifier will have you feeling every treble of your favorite tunes. Another option is to fold the second-row seats to reveal a whopping 89 cubic feet of cargo space. Don’t forget about the roof racks and 5,000-pound towing capacity so you can bring almost everything you own for your road trip. 

Select the Perfect SUV for Your Family at Spartanburg Toyota

Invite your family to come along as you visit a Toyota dealership in Spartanburg and find the SUV that’s perfect for everyone you love. While you’re there, ask our team about our specials so you can save money on vehicle maintenance and spend more time making family memories that will last a lifetime. 

 

Get ready to experience the next level of Toyota's renowned family SUV in the all-new 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander. Designed to accommodate larger families and provide unmatched versatility, the three-row Grand Highlander is ready to redefine the way you embark on family adventures. Let's delve into what makes the 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander a true game-changer in the world of SUVs and afterwards, view our new 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander inventory and schedule a test drive here near Greenville!

1. Bold and Captivating Design: The 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander boasts a commanding presence on the road with its bold and captivating design. The front grille, flanked by striking LED headlights, exudes confidence and modernity. The longer wheelbase and extended body create an even more substantial and sophisticated appearance. With its distinctive character lines and available 20-inch alloy wheels, the Grand Highlander stands out in a crowd, making a lasting impression.
2. Spacious and Comfortable Interior: Step inside the 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander, and you'll be greeted by a refined and spacious interior designed to accommodate up to eight passengers. Premium materials and meticulous attention to detail elevate the cabin's ambiance, creating a sense of luxury and comfort. The versatile seating configurations and ample legroom in all three rows ensure everyone can stretch out and enjoy a relaxing ride, even on long journeys.
3. Advanced Technology Features: Toyota has equipped the 2024 Grand Highlander with the latest technology to enhance your driving experience. The infotainment system features a large touchscreen display, offering seamless smartphone integration through Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. An available rear-seat entertainment system keeps passengers entertained during trips, making the journey as enjoyable as the destination. Toyota's advanced suite of safety features, including Toyota Safety Sense™ 2.5+, provides peace of mind for you and your loved ones. (Plus, you'll have more protection the minute you leave out lot with our complimentary Exclusive Lifetime Warranty!)
4. Performance and Capability: The 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander offers an array of powerful and efficient powertrain options to suit different driving needs. The V6 engine delivers responsive acceleration and impressive towing capacity, making it a capable companion for hauling trailers or boats. With available all-wheel drive, the Grand Highlander ensures confident handling and stability, even in adverse weather conditions or off-road adventures.
5. Family-Focused Convenience: Toyota understands that families need convenience features to simplify their daily lives. The Grand Highlander offers a hands-free power liftgate, making loading and unloading groceries or gear a breeze. The available panoramic moonroof creates an open and airy atmosphere, giving passengers a sense of freedom during their travels. Thoughtful storage solutions, such as underfloor storage and multiple USB ports throughout the cabin, cater to modern family needs.

Upgrade To Your New Highlander Today!

Interested? We thought so! At Spartanburg Toyota, our team is ready to help in any way we can. From constantly offering new Toyota specials to save you big to giving you top-dollar on your trade-in, our goal is to get you behind the wheel fast and easy! Get pre-approved today and then come visit us here in the Upstate!

If you find yourself with a free evening or weekend and you’re trying to figure out what to do, you might want to put Spartanburg, SC on your list! This great city has great restaurants, stores, and an incredible aesthetic. However, like in most big cities, parking can be a bit of a pain.

As a Spartanburg resident, you know that parking downtown can be hard to come by, especially on weekends. With street parking as one of only a few options available to you, it's simply an unavoidable part of your life behind the wheel. So, if you have to park on the street, you may as well stay safe. Below are some basic things every Spartanburg Toyota driver can do to ensure the safety of their vehicle when parking on the street.

Getting A Handle On Street Parking in Spartanburg

Having to parallel park on a busy street can certainly be nerve-wracking. In fact,  parallel parking is something that many drivers struggle with, but it’s still an important skill to master. So, how comfortable are you with parallel parking? More importantly, can you parallel park? Because if the answer to either of these questions is no, you may want to just pony up the twenty-or-so bucks required to gain access to an oversaturated parking garage. However, if you have the mettle to take on the tall task of parallel parking on a busy city street, keep reading. 

Simple Tips

• Pay attention to the street signs: A common joke among big-city drivers is street signs are something that should be simple to interpret but, oftentimes, they’re not. With differing messages, time restraints, and symbols all coexisting on the same small rectangular sign, parking legally on the street can require some focus and mental fortitude. Take your time, read the signs and ensure that you won't be returning to a freshly booted vehicle.
• Park under street lights, not tree branches: If possible, it's always a good idea to park your car in a well-lit area. In general, the more visible your car is, the safer it will be. On the other hand, parking under trees should be avoided whenever possible. Trees shed debris with rain and wind and, on occasion, come down completely in severe weather. Not to mention bird poop is rather annoying, especially with a convertible.
• Fold in side mirrors: One of the easiest ways to protect your car when parking on the street is by simply folding in your driver-side side mirror. This prevents an irresponsible driver from passing too close to your parked car, clipping off your mirror, and continuing on with their day, leaving you with the bill for repairs.
• Take or hide your things and lock up: On average, over 80,000 unlocked cars are stolen yearly. That's right, unlocked cars. So, while this may seem like an obvious tip, it is an important one. Lock your car, take your keys with you and be sure that no valuables are visible to people passing by and peeking in. Make sure potential thieves are not interested in your car or anything inside it.
• Hey Siri, drop a pin: People are forgetful. We forget our keys, our phones, our wallets. Heck, sometimes we forget whether or not our kids are in the backseat. We also, on occasion, forget where we park. Prevent this issue by dropping a pin on your maps app before you leave your ride behind. Then, when you're ready to return, simply pull up the pin and find your ride in no time.

Save Up For These

• Car wash: Getting your car washed about every two weeks is a great way to make sure your car looks presentable. Beyond that, it shows would-be thieves that you pay attention to your vehicle. Oftentimes, car thieves target vehicles that look neglected. The idea here is that they will have more time after the theft to do with the car what they want before the owner even notices it's gone. So, protect your car's exterior appearance and show people you care about your ride with frequent washes. 
• Snow cover: A snow cover or car blanket protects your car from all elements. Whether that's snow, hail, tree debris, or bird droppings, a cover is a great way to protect your ride and prevent passersby from seeing what's inside.
• Sunshade: Over time, constant exposure to the sunlight will cause fading and cracks on your dash and other areas of your interior. A sunshade is a great way to protect your car's interior and prevent potential thieves from seeing something worth stealing in your car.
• Catalytic converter shield: This may sound like an unnecessary precaution, but when you consider the fact that an experienced thief can steal a catalytic converter in about two minutes, that $350 shield is looking a lot better than a $2,000+ converter.

Check Out Spartanburg Stress-Free

With more and more people moving to major metropolitan areas each year, parking in areas like Dayton is getting harder and harder to find, while inventory for car thieves has never been higher. However, if you follow these steps, you can rest easy knowing that you've done all you can to protect your car while it's parked on the street.

What was thought to be a once-in-a-lifetime trip became reality this past March thanks to Mobile Meals and their Scotland Land Cruise! Every year, the incredible team at Mobile Meals transforms their venue to resemble a cruise ship and takes sponsors and attendees around the world! This year, we went to Scotland and got to enjoy some incredible photography, Scottish food, and good ol’ highland fun! The event saw 600 guests, including sponsors like ourselves and volunteers, all in an effort to raise funds to further the goals of Mobile Meals. We all got to enjoy the Emcee News7 Anchor Mr. Gordon Dill and danced along to music from Back 9 Band. There were also over 100 auction items donated by local businesses and generous individuals.  And it was a huge success! We raised nearly $160,000, all of which will go towards feeding seniors throughout Spartanburg City and the surrounding County. 

Mobile meals has been helping the people of Spartanburg County since 1977 and started out serving 25 meals with only 15 volunteers. Now, they serve over 2,000 residents annually, with 150 volunteers offering their help every day and service 19 counties across North and South Carolina. Their recipients include emergency pantries, soup kitchens, senior programs, homeless shelters, and low-income daycare centers. 

We were so happy to be sponsors this year and look forward to sponsoring them again next year when they take us to a Spain destination! Check them out and see how you can help support their mission at https://www.mobile-meals.org/ today.

Type 1 Diabetes is an issue that hits home for us at Spartanburg Toyota, which is why we’re proud to be supporters of this year’s JDRF Gala in Greenville, South Carolina. More than 1.6 million Americans are currently living with T1D, including Spartanburg Toyota’s very own Jared Back, and often struggle with rising costs of insulin. The Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation works every day to not only raise funding for T1D research, but advocates on behalf of those living with T1D for lower insulin costs, as well as providing much-needed education and support.

Their goal for their 2022 JDRF Gala is to raise $500,000 which will all go towards the research to help prevent type 1 diabetes, improve the lives of those living with T1D, and ultimately find a cure! This Gala is also in honor of Loraine and Marc Smith, hosted by Megan Heidlberg, the co-host of “Your Carolina with Jack and Megan” on WSPA-TV. Because this is an issue that is personal to us at Spartanburg Toyota, we often sponsor events with the JDRF including the 2021 One Walk which raised over $125,000, and a golf tournament that’s coming up later this year. 

If you would like to attend the 2022 JDRF Gala, you can find more information and reserve tickets right here. Join us as we show our support for those diagnosed and living with type 1 diabetes on Saturday, May 14th, 2022 at Fluor Field at the West End in Greenville, South Carolina!

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