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There's no way around it. Buying a new car requires a major investment, even when you choose budget-friendly vehicles. You can, of course, recoup some of that money by selling your car before buying a new one. If that's your plan, then you should consider purchasing one of these three Toyota vehicles with great resale values. Tacoma The Tacoma is a midsize truck that Toyota completely redesigned for 2016. Kelley Blue Book estimates that its resale value is nearly 73 percent after three years and 62 percent after five years. If you buy a Tacoma for $23,300 (its MSRP), then you can expect to sell it for about $17,000 in three years. That means you actually only spend $6,300 for three years of use. Avalon Kelley Blue Book gives the 2016 Toyota Avalon its Best Resale Value Award. It doesn't predict exactly how much you can get when you sell the vehicle in a few years. Past models, however, have retained their values better than most four-door sedans. Highlander Winner of the 2016 Five-Year Cost to Own Award goes to the Toyota Highlander, a midsize crossover SUV that's been around for more than 15 years. The newest model comes loaded with features that will make it an attractive option for pre-owned buyers a few years from now. With its strong V6 engine, 19-inch wheels, and luxurious interior features, it won't go out of style anytime soon. While it's always difficult to predict which vehicles will retain their values, these three models are almost guaranteed to help you lower your overall expenses. Image provided by Shutterstock

While the RAV4 is one of the most popular SUVs offered by Toyota, there are still some interesting features many people don't know about it. Keep reading to learn a few more facts about this fun and capable SUV. There's a Hybrid Version The RAV4 Hybrid comes with a 2.5-liter, four-cylinder hybrid engine. Like other hybrids, the RAV4 gets excellent fuel economy with an EPA-estimated 34 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway. The RAV4 Hybrid also comes with all-wheel drive capabilities. Softer Redesigned Interior Toyota listened to customer complaints about the hard plastic used on the inside of the RAV4 and redesigned the new 2016 model to include a softer inside. Not only do the luxurious trim and soft-touch materials look and feel great, they're also 55 percent more sound deadening than previous materials. Bold Exterior Look The RAV4 takes the bold lines of an SUV to a completely new level. Designers created a stylish front end and side panels for a clean and sharp look. They also added a durable rear bumper that's available with a silver-painted garnish so the vehicle will look just as good in the back as in the front. Finally, you can get the unique S-Code paint treatment on the RAV4 SE and enjoy silver-painted accents on the fenders, side lower trim, and front and rear bumpers for a refined style. Get behind the wheel of a RAV4 so you can learn even more about the new features on this SUV. Image provided by Shutterstock

Toyota is the most fuel-efficient automotive manufacturer, according to data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. With vehicles that earn an estimated 30 miles per gallon (mpg), Toyota is the go-to brand for drivers who want an economical automobile with optimum fuel efficiency. Here are three Toyota models that offer great fuel economy. Prius Introduced to consumers worldwide in 2000, the Toyota Prius has saved American consumers over 1.4 billion gallons of fuel and $3.8 billion in fuel costs. The 2016 Prius model runs on a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine that earns 54 city mpg and 50 highway mpg. Those who opt for the Prius Two Eco trim can benefit from an impressive 58 mpg in the city. Camry The Toyota Camry and Camry Hybrid rank high on the list of fuel-efficient vehicles by drivers who consider gas mileage a top priority. The 2016 Camry offers up to 25 city mpg and 35 highway mpg, while the 2016 Camry Hybrid offers up to 43 city mpg and 39 highway mpg. Both trims are ideal for drivers who commute daily and need a reliable vehicle that won't break the bank. Yaris Available as a three-door or five-door liftback, the Yaris is Toyota's most affordable vehicle. This subcompact car is powered by a 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine that generates up to 30 city mpg and 37 highway mpg in its 2016 release. Drivers who choose the Yaris benefit from Toyota's standard Star Safety System and desirable fuel economy in one affordable package. When shopping for a fuel-efficient vehicle, consider purchasing a Hybrid or newer Toyota model, both of which feature the latest technologies that help improve gas mileage. Image provided by Shutterstock

Located right in the heart of the Great Appalachian Valley, Lehigh Valley is home to major points of interest that make this area ideal for short, scenic road trips. Go for a drive to check out the three following Lehigh Valley hot spots. Bowman's Wildflower Preserve This beautiful 134-acre preserve is home to over 800 species of plants native to Lehigh Valley. Wander among endless hills of wildflowers, or take a guided tour to learn more about the region's plant life. Bring a picnic lunch to enjoy in the preserve, located at 1635 River Road in New Hope. From Allentown, take I-78 E. toward Quakertown and continue on PA-309 S. toward New Hope. Delaware and Lehigh National Heritage Corridor This historic pathway once carried natural resources from Wilkes-Barre to Philadelphia. Spend the afternoon at a river town such as New Hope, or plan for a longer stay in Bethlehem, where you can enjoy fine dining and arts in the town's historic district. From Allentown, take I-476 N. toward Scranton, then take exit 105 toward Wilkes-Barre. Delaware River Valley Scenic Byway This 34-mile breathtaking scenic byway follows Route 29 along the Delaware River between Trenton and Frenchtown, where you can view lush farmland, countryside, and historic landmarks. Take a hike on the seven-mile Tekening hiking trail, overlooking part of the Delaware River, or explore the river itself by going fishing for pickerel, bass, and muskellunge. While driving along on your adventure, don't hesitate to stop and ask locals about their favorite areas in Lehigh Valley. You might just discover unique points of interest that aren't available on a map. Image provided by Shutterstock

Year after year, Toyota earns five-star overall safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, which makes this brand ideal for motorists intent on keeping their families safe. Toyota also equips its vehicles with the latest tech features, satisfying family members of all ages on daily commutes and road trips. Check out the following three family-friendly Toyota vehicles. Corolla The Toyota Corolla sedan earned the NHTSA's five-star overall safety rating for its 2014, 2015, and 2016 models. The 2016 Corolla features extra backseat space so rear passengers can relax comfortably, as well as standard tech features that include Bluetooth and USB. Sienna Just like the Corolla, the Toyota Sienna minivan earned the NHTSA five-star overall safety rating for its most recent three models. The 2016 release tows up to 3,500 pounds and seats up to eight passengers. Available leather seating and dual moonroof enhances family outings, while flexible seating is easily configurable at a moment's notice to accommodate extra cargo. Sequoia Available in three trim levels, the Toyota Sequoia seats up to eight, with the option to choose second-row captain's chairs for smaller families who want comfort. The vehicle offers up to 120.1 cubic feet cargo room, as well as power reclining third-row seats, available in the Platinum and Limited trims. All Toyota models come equipped with the standard Star Safety System so you and your family members will ride in style without sacrificing safety. Talk to your local Toyota dealer today to learn more about family-friendly vehicle options. Image provided by Shutterstock

Whether you're heading out for a romantic date or a night out with friends and family, Allentown offers multiple fine dining and restaurant options. Next time you visit Allentown, check out the following three restaurants worth adding to your bucket list. Cali Burrito Escape from Eastern Pennsylvania for the evening and enjoy the laid-back surfer vibe at Cali Burrito, where you can eat healthy breakfast burritos, rice bowls, tacos, and quesadillas made from fresh ingredients. Cali Burrito has a no lard and no MSG policy, and allows customers to bring their own beer to complement their meals. The restaurant is at 3104 Hamilton Blvd. in Allentown. Hummus House Located at 1502 W. Chew St., Hummus House is a deli-style restaurant that specializes in Middle Eastern cuisine. Share a hummus pita pizza with friends, or indulge in one of several authentic family recipes made from scratch using quality wholesome ingredients. When you've finished your meal, stick around to take advantage of free Wi-Fi to the backdrop of eclectic background music. Henry's Salt of the Sea Seafood lovers will enjoy their time spent at this French-inspired seafood restaurant and bar. Also known as the "Culinary Ballet," Henry's Salt of the Sea is known for its signature dishes that include Broiled Sea Scallops, Lobster Francaise, and "Henry VIII," comprised of petite filet mignon with sautéed lump crabmeat. Venture down to 1926 W. Allen St. to experience France by way of Allentown. After finishing your meal, head down to the city's longtime ice cream parlor Ice Cream World for dessert, or refuel with a cup of coffee at Hava Java. Image provided by Shutterstock

The Toyota Corolla is the best-selling car in automotive history, according to sources at Wall Street and Edmunds.com, and continues to improve with each passing year. The 2016 release introduces several new technology features that enhance the driving experience for both drivers and passengers. Check out the following four tech features available in the 2016 Toyota Corolla. Backup Camera The backup camera offers a clear view from the rear when backing up or navigating into small, tight spots. Activated when driving in reverse, the backup camera improves safety for occupants and pedestrians, and comes standard on the Corolla's LE, LE Eco, and S trims. Bluetooth The Corolla's built-in Bluetooth technology allows occupants to make phone calls and stream music without being connected by wires. Drivers who take advantage of Bluetooth can manage their personal and business affairs hands-free so they can stay focused on the drive ahead. USB Port Plug your mobile device into the Corolla's USB port to access your favorite music playlists, and to charge your phone or tablet on longer road trips. The USB port is at the center of the Corolla's dash and is easily accessible for the driver and front-seat passenger. Entune Audio The Entune Audio feature is available with an eight-inch touchscreen, from which you can manage AM/FM radio, CD player, iPod connectivity, voice recognition, and more. This feature is standard on the L trim, while all other trims come standard with Entune Premium Audio with Integrated Navigation and App Suite, which includes Sirius Satellite Radio and HD Radio. Visit your local Toyota dealer to learn more about the latest tech features available on the 2016 Corolla. Image provided by Shutterstock

Every new Toyota model comes standard with a suite of safety features known as Toyota's Star Safety System. Together, these safety systems help prevent crashes, protect passengers, and make the road safer for motorists and pedestrians. Take a look at the following three safety features included in Toyota's latest 2016 models. 1. Anti-Lock Brake System Toyota's anti-lock brake system helps you regain control of your vehicle when one or more of its wheels loses traction. The system detects when a wheel moves more slowly than its counterparts after applying brakes, and rapidly pulses the brake for that wheel until it matches the speed of all other wheels. When skidding over ice or water, Toyota's anti-lock brakes keep you and all passengers safe. 2. Smart Stop Technology This feature automatically reduces engine power when you press the brake and accelerator pedals at the same time. In the event your travel mug, purse, or another object gets trapped and lodged under the brake pedal, Smart Stop Technology slows your vehicle to prevent an accident. 3. Electronic Brake-Force Distribution As part of the anti-lock brake system, this feature reduces brake pressure on wheels carrying less weight than their counterparts when you suddenly hit the brakes. The brake-force distribution system re-balances weight appropriately, so you can stay upright and in control when losing traction. Other safety features that make up the Star Safety System include Traction Control, Brake Assist, and Vehicle Stability Control. Available safety features on most 2016 Toyota models include Blind Spot Monitor, Lane Departure Alert, and Backup Camera. Image provided by Shutterstock

If you’re thinking about buying a Toyota or you just drove yourself home in your new Toyota you may be wondering about the brand. You probably know Toyota is a Japanese manufacturer, but here are 5 fun facts about Toyota you probably don’t know: A Corolla is Sold Every 37 Seconds Toyota Corolla sells on average every 37 seconds since 1966. This model alone has sold more than 40 million vehicles. Best Resale Value If you want to buy a vehicle that will give you a decent payout when you sell it a few years later, Toyota is the brand to look at. Used Toyota’s have some of the best resale values of all used vehicles, particularly the Land Cruiser and Prius hybrid. One Million Dollars Per Hour Toyota is always researching the future of automobile technologies. The manufacturer spends one million dollars per hour on research and development – amounting to over $9 billion per year. No other automobile manufacturer spends as much on research and development than Toyota. Top Selling Car in the Country For 12 years in a row, the Toyota Camry won the U.S. Sales Crown, making it the top selling car in the United States. 5. First Mass Produced Hybrid Vehicle The Toyota Prius was the first mass produced hybrid vehicle, which was launched in 1997. Prius reached its goal of selling one million hybrid vehicles in 2012.

Most drivers do everything they possibly can to avoid a car accident, but statistically – most drivers will find themselves involved in a car accident at some point in time. Not only are car accidents inconvenient but they can cause expensive damages to your vehicle, possible traffic tickets, injuries, and liability issues. If you are involved in a car accident, there are several things you should never do - including the following: Drive away from the accident: even if there are no damages involved in the car accident, you must never just drive away from the scene. You have to check on any other drivers and people involved, exchange car insurance information, and even report minor fender benders to law enforcement. Not doing these things is considered a crime. Skip calling the police: even if no one was hurt in the car accident and you and any other drivers involved have decided it’s a minor incident that doesn’t need to be reported – you must call the police after a car accident. You can’t be sure the other drivers have up to date insurance coverage. You can’t be sure the other driver doesn’t have active arrest warrants. You can’t be sure the other parties involved in the accident won’t go to the hospital later with injuries they say come from the accident. Always get a police report documenting the car accident as protection for yourself. Blame the other driver or admit fault: never yell at the other driver(s) and blame them for the accident even if it was their fault.  Keep calm and ask them if they are alright instead of getting angry that they caused a car accident – even if it was their fault.  Also, never admit that you did anything wrong after a car accident as this is the same as legally admitting liability for the accident which could result in law suits and other penalties.

If you want to enjoy an evening of live music Allentown offers a variety of local spots for date night or a night out with friends. Grab a drink and some dinner, or just sit back and enjoy the music at some of our favorite live music venues: Strange Brew Tavern 1996 S 5 th St Come earlier in the evening for a relaxing and mellow experience or for dinner, or come in later with a date for live music and a more adventurous experience. Godfrey Daniels Coffee House 7 E 4 th St Godfrey Daniels is your typical old school coffee house featuring folk music. The sound is exceptional for a small venue, and you’ll find people of all ages enjoying the beverages and live music. ArtsQuest Center 101 Founders Way An upstairs music venue modeled after the World Café Live in Philly. ArtsQuest offers an outside deck, an area for VIP seating, and even meeting spaces that you can rent if needed. Allentown Symphony Association, Inc 23 N 6 th St This building has been beautifully restored, and despite the “symphony” name, you’ll find a large variety of musical acts playing at this venue. Drinks and food are also available. Grain 536 Hamilton St Stop in for drinks and stay for the music. The venue is long and narrow, but offers a comfortable place to sit and stay awhile. Sands Event Center 77 Sands Blvd A larger music venue offering well-known performers, free parking and good visibility from any seat in the house.

Coca-Cola Park in Allentown is available year-round for corporate events, wedding receptions, family reunions, and casual picnics or buffets with accommodations for groups of 50 to 3,000 people. Catering Coca Cola Park offers a variety of menus for your Lehigh Valley social events and corporate meetings and provides full service catering. Your event will be stress free as the expert event planners at Coca-Cola Park attend to all of the details for your event for you. Event Examples The park has hosted small and large events for socializing, business, and weddings. Examples include: Retirement parties Family reunions Award banquets Bar & Bat Mitzvah’s Sweet Sixteen parties Holiday parties Business training sessions Company picnics Job fairs Weddings Engagement parties Bridal parties Bachelor parties Rehearsal dinners Accommodations Meeting space and group areas are assigned based on the size of your party: NACCI Printing Meeting Room: Groups of 30-80 people Boar’d Room: Groups of 10-30 people PPL Picnic Patio: Large groups up to 500 people, outdoor location AT&T Plaza: ideal for trade shows, fundraiser walks, 5K’s, etc Coordinated Health Club Level: Groups of 50 up to 250 people IronPigs Game-Related Outings For birthday parties, company outings, and other events related to the IronPigs games, or for group tickets to the games, please call our group sales representatives at (610) 841-7447.