Author Archive for Tim Esterdahl
Associate Editor Tim Esterdahl is a married father of three who enjoys all things automotive including wrenching on his collection of old pickups. He also plays an absurd amount of golf. Like really absurd.
Review: 2016 Toyota RAV4 Limited Adds More Style, Quieter Cabin Still Lacks Pop
When it comes to compact SUVs, the Toyota RAV4 stands out in many people’s minds due to its reliability and size. Yet, Toyota aims to expand this view with an upgraded exterior, improved interior and a hybrid option. All of these additions help increase the appeal of the 2016 Toyota RAV4, but borrowing a turbo-charged engine from Lexus would go a long way to really improve the SUV.
Toyota’s CEO Jim Lentz Talks About Companies Future and Oil Prices Affecting Decisions
Periodically Toyota’s communications team interviews executives and other individuals, journalists simply don’t have access to. Here is a great example of these interviews with CEO Jim Lentz. While he doesn’t share any shocking, breaking news items, I think his discussion on oil prices and the change in consumer behavior is spot on and is part of the reason why he has been cautious when he talks about spending more resources on truck development. Sure, trucks are hot right now, but what happens in 5 years which is about the time frame for when a new production facility could come online. Will trucks still be hot? If only we had a crystal ball.
Toyota North America Region Chief Executive Officer Jim Lentz talks with team members at Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Indiana (TMMI) in July 2013.
Toyota/Lexus News May 13, 2016
Here is the weekly dose of Toyota/Lexus for May 13, 2016.
Toyota, Lexus News Recap – May 13, 2016
April 2016 Truck Sales – Tacoma on Fire, Tundra Holds Steady
Another month of sales results for 2016 and a similar story. Once again, Toyota Tacoma sales grow while the Tundra treads water and was even out sold by the Chevy Colorado.
The Toyota Tacoma continues to sell well, while the Tundra holds steady.
Toyota Signs Off-Road Racing Superstar BJ Baldwin
Adding to their roster of well-known drivers, Toyota added off-road racing superstar BJ Baldwin on May 7, 2016 in front of a large crowd of AMA Supercross fans. Baldwin is known for twice winning the Baja 1000 without a second driver and a successful #Recoil video franchise among other accomplishments. Toyota also revealed a new Tundra TRD Pro Trophy truck.
