Though the 2017 and 2018 Toyota RAV4 models share some features in common, such as their 2.5-liter I4 engine, the new model has undergone some exciting changes. If you're on the fence about which vehicle you want, consider these three features that are worth the upgrade. Bolder New Exterior The 2018 shares some exterior features in common with the 2017 model, so it isn't a total overhaul. However, you'll enjoy bigger wheels (18-inch black alloy wheels compared to the 2017's 17-inch steel wheels), a higher ground clearance, and an upgraded underbody cladding that is only available if you go with the 2018 RAV4. Safety Features The 2017 RAV4 is a Top Safety Pick+ from the Insurance Institute on Highway Safety. The 2018 is equipped with the same cutting-edge features that helped the 2017 reach this acclaim. All 2018 models also come standard with trailer sway control and hill-start assist. Moreover, all trims of the 2018 RAV4 crossover add Toyota's pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, lane departure alert, auto high beams, and dynamic radar cruise control. Toyota Safety Sense P is standard on all 2018 editions. The Adventure Trim Toyota has introduced a new Adventure trim exclusive to the 2018 RAV4. As the name suggests, this trim is suited to outdoor exploration. It has the option of either an automatic limited-slip differential front-wheel-drive or a dynamic torque all-wheel-drive configuration. These three features make the newer RAV4 an obvious choice for many drivers. If you still need some convincing, visit Bennett Toyota Allentown to test drive both year models and see which you prefer. Image via Flickr by automobileitalia
2 Places to Celebrate Mother's Day in Allentown
With Mother's Day just around the corner, it's time to plan a celebration for the most important woman in your life. No matter what she loves to do, eat, or drink, you'll find the perfect venue for Mother's Day in Allentown. Fegley's Allentown Brew Works Not every mom is a wine drinker, so if your mom prefers a bottle of suds, take her to Fegley's Allentown Brew Works. This local craft brewery has one of the best brunch spreads in the city, offering breakfast favorites, lunch entrees, mouthwatering desserts, and award-winning beers. Brunch runs from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., and if you arrive early, you can even break your mom's sage advice to never drink before noon. Bell Gate Farm Normally reserved for wedding and classy events, Bell Gate Farm opens its doors to the public for a Mother's Day Feast. On May 13, treat mom to a serene rural setting and some of the best food she's ever tasted. The smorgasbord includes a waffle bar, donuts, fresh fruit, granola, a carving station with black forest ham and top sirloin, salad, smoked salmon, and more. Top it off with a mimosa for a complete meal, and don't forget the coffee at the end. The brunch starts at 11 a.m. Tickets are $65 for adults, $32.50 for children ages 3 to 12, and free for kids under 3. With all this delicious food, you won't want to miss it. Wherever you decide to spend Mother's Day in Allentown, you're in for a memorable occasion with the woman who's number one in your life. Image via Flickr by donnierayjones
2 Kid-Approved Day Trips in Allentown
If you're having little luck prying the kids away from video games, the television, or an electronic device, you aren't alone. The age of instant gratification has made it more difficult to keep kids entertained, and parents must often play the bad guy when they intervene. However, your kids won't balk at day trips in the exciting city of Allentown. For a fun-filled family adventure, check out a few of these suggestions. Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom Searching for a thrill? Let the kids go wild at Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom. Open the first weekend in May until Labor Day, Dorney Park has 200 acres of games, rides, and entertainment. The park has 47 rides in total, including family rides, giant roller coasters, a massive water park, and more. If the kids are driving you crazy, head to the Dodgem bumper cars to let off some aggression. Tickets are $39.99, but discounts and deals are readily available throughout the season. America on Wheels Museum The days of playing with Hot Wheels and Matchbox cars might be over, but if your child loves watching car chase scenes, playing racing games, or watching dad work on the car, take them to the America on Wheels Museum. Covering 23,000 square feet, the museum showcases 75 classic automobiles, motorcycles, bicycles, and trucks. The museum has winter and summer hours, so check ahead to see when it's open. Tickets are $10 for adults, $8 for seniors, and $6 for children 6 to 16. Whether you want a day of heart-pumping thrills or an auto education, you can find it all in Allentown. Image via Flickr by ToriaURU
Commuters Will Love These Toyota Vehicles
Do you spend a lot of time on the road? If so, you need a safe and reliable vehicle you can count on to get you going every morning. Check out these three Toyota vehicles perfect for commuters, and some of their most compelling features. Camry The Camry is a midsize car that starts at $23,495. It has excellent fuel economy for its class: 29 miles per gallon in the city and 41 on the highway. The new 2018 Camry has undergone an exterior redesign and now features an aggressive front grille, among other sporty features. Prius The new Toyota Prius is one of the most economical vehicles you can own, making it a fantastic choice for commuters looking to save at the pump. The 2018 edition is a midsize car and is available in seven trims. The base model has a starting MSRP of $23,475, and the new Prius gets up to 58 miles per gallon in the city and 53 on the highway. Avalon If you want a more comfortable commute that's a bit roomier, the Toyota Avalon is a wonderful pick. The Avalon is a luxury vehicle, so it offers a more premium driving experience than others in the Toyota lineup. An upgraded interior with Ultrasuede material and an available real wood trim are two of its most compelling features. The Avalon starts at $33,500. These are just three of the many models Toyota produces that are excellent for commuters. Check out these vehicles and others at Bennett Toyota of Allentown and take your favorites for a test drive today. Image via Flickr by yuseokoh
Best Sushi Restaurants in Allentown
From complex rolls of several ingredients to a straight-up hunk of raw fish known as sashimi, sushi has become one of the country's most popular foods. It's healthy, perfect for a quick, delicious meal, and a break from the ordinary. Whether you're in the mood for a California roll or you just want to try something different, check out these sushi restaurants in Allentown. Oishi Japan If you're going to start your Allentown sushi tour off right, you may as well go to the largest and arguably the most popular sushi restaurant in the city. At Oishi Japan, you can choose from dozens of sushi and sashimi options, including their selection of over two dozen rolls. The tuna avocado cucumber roll is a top seller, and the Philadelphia roll made from salmon, cucumber, and cream cheese is heavenly. Lily Sushi Another highly praised choice for sushi in Allentown is Lily Sushi, but unlike Oishi, Lily leans more toward traditional sashimi and bento boxes. You can still go with a sushi roll, but their yellowtail, red snapper, and Spanish mackerel is amazing. If you're hungry or want some more variety, go with a bento box. Bamboo Asian Cuisine & Sushi Bar With Thai, Japanese, and other influences, Bamboo Asian Cuisine is an Asian fusion experience unlike any other. While you could opt for pad thai or General Tso's chicken, dive into their 24 sushi roll choices for a culinary delight. For a taste of the Far East that's sure to leave a long impression, grab your appetite and get to these sushi hot spots. Your taste buds will thank you. Image via Flickr by jronaldlee
- A Guide to the 2018 Toyota 86
Responsible for carrying the sports car platform for the entire Toyota lineup, the 2018 86 has its work cut out. However, one look at this sporty coupe, and you're convinced that it's every bit as awesome as its competitors. Loaded with tons of features and spectacular style, the 2018 Toyota 86 is ready to burn some serious rubber. Pure Power If you have an insatiable need for speed that never seems to end, the 2018 Toyota 86 should quell your urge with ease. The 86 boasts a powerful, 2.0-liter, inline-four-cylinder that packs 200 horsepower with the six-speed automatic transmission and 205 horsepower with the six-speed manual. These configurations power the rear wheel drive, enabling the 86 to ramp up to 126 mph with a 0-60 time of just 7.7 seconds. GT and GT Black Last year's 86 came with only one standard trim and a special edition model, so drivers will be excited that the addition of the GT and GT Black provide a bit more depth. Inside, these trims provide heated sports seats and dual-zone climate control, so you're always comfortable. Silver-contrast stitching and leather-trimmed surfaces add another element of luxury and style. For a unique aesthetic, the GT Black provides a mishmash of matte-black and gloss-black exterior trims that brilliantly pair with the 17-inch, twisted metal alloy wheels. With the eclectic mix of power and style, the 86 proves that Toyota still has the ability and the know-how to craft an excellent sports car. The only thing it still needs is you behind the wheel. Image via Flickr by FotoSleuth
Upcoming Summer Events in Philly
Summer in Philly is filled with all sorts of events, from family-friendly festivals to adult-only events. Here are our top three favorite upcoming summer events in Philly. Blue Cross RiverRink Summerfest Running from Memorial Day to Labor Day, Blue Cross RiverRink Summerfest is one of the longest-running festivals of the season and is super popular among residents and visitors alike. Entrance to the event is free, and patrons can enjoy roller skating, mini-golf, games, and festival games with pay-as-you-go tickets making it a super affordable and family-friendly event popular with all ages. Philly Beer Week This year is the eleventh annual Philly Beer Week, which celebrates the breweries of Philadelphia. Running for 10 days, this event includes a range of different functions. Beer enthusiasts can catch lectures on brewing techniques and history, or check out any of the many special tastings. Multiple restaurants host beer pairing dinners during this week, and it's a great way to learn more about local beer. The week runs from June 1-10. Wawa Welcome America! Celebrating America's independence, the Wawa Welcome America! festival is held from June 28–July 4 and features a range of exciting free events during this multi-day party sponsored by Wawa. Enjoy patriotic parades, block parties, outdoor concerts, museum days, and so much more. Be sure to catch one of the breath-taking firework displays! Philly has tons of exciting events happening all summer long, and these three are a great place to start when planning out your summer. Image via Flickr by Rupert Affen
The 3 Best Coffee Spots near Allentown
Whether you're looking to hang out with friends, kick back and relax, or just have a quick caffeine boost, coffee shops are a popular destination for many Americans. Here are our favorite coffee spots near Allentown to help you get your fix. Coffee House Without Limits Coffee House Without Limits is a cozy cafe in the historic 10th Ward. They offer a variety of drinks beyond coffee, including teas and espresso-based beverages, plus lots of vegan and vegetarian options. The owners work hard to get most of their products from local vendors, and they regularly host community-driven art events, like poetry workshops and open mic nights. The cafe is located at 707 N. 4th St. Suite 101. Only street parking is available. Hava Java Run by a local family, Hava Java is a fun spot to grab some fresh coffee and maybe catch some performances during their regular weekly open mic nights. Cozy and intimate, it has a steady stream of regulars thanks to its laid-back vibe and delicious drinks. The cafe can be found at 526 N. 19th St. South Mountain Cycles and Cafe A short distance outside of Allentown, in the neighboring town of Emmaus, is South Mountain Cycles and Cafe. All of the dairy and coffee products used in this stylish coffee shop are organic, and the cafe has strong community ties. It's a great place to hang out with friends and enjoy a handcrafted drink or just pick up your morning cup. The cafe's address is 337 Chestnut St. Next time you're craving a great cup of coffee, check out one of these three spots! Image via by keso s
How to Prep Your Toyota for Summer
Summer can be brutal on your vehicle, with soaring temperatures putting more strain on your car than normal. Here are two ways you can prep your Toyota for summer. Check Your Air Conditioner During the summer, your air conditioner will have to work extra hard to keep up with a comfortable temperature. With climate control at a premium, having a functional air conditioner can not only keep you comfortable but also save you a lot of frustration. Plus, if you have little ones in the car, high temperatures can be dangerous. Run your air conditioner for a few minutes to check for any abnormal smells or sounds. You may also want to check and clean out any filters. If you find anything concerning, reach out to a professional to get it fixed to ensure you have a fully functioning air conditioner once the heat hits. Inspect Your Radiator Your radiator is responsible for keeping your engine cool. During the summer, high temperatures can easily lead to an overheated engine and cause breakdowns. You'll want to make sure that your fluid levels are appropriately high in the reservoir and that the fluid is clear, not cloudy. The hoses should also be checked for any cracks or leaks. Radiator issues can be easy to miss during the winter but can cause massive problems once the radiator has to start working harder. If you notice any issues, get it checked out immediately. These two preparation steps are a great way to start getting your vehicle ready for summer to ensure that it can easily handle the heat. Image by GrandMaster1004
Fun Date Ideas in Allentown
Planning a fun date is a great way to spend time with your significant other while getting out and about. Here are our favorite date ideas in and around Allentown. Pines Dinner Theater Pines Dinner Theater is a great unique date idea and is also a fun way to support your local Allentown arts community. Enjoy a delicious full-course dinner while watching a fun, themed play, ranging from Broadway favorites to interactive murder mysteries. The food is country-themed, and the shows are always changing, making each visit a new experience. Pines Dinner Theater is located at 448 N. 17th St. Lehigh Valley Wine Trail Covering eight different locally owned vineyards and wineries, the Lehigh Valley Wine Trail is a great way to spend some time with your significant other and learn more about the region while enjoying incredible local wines. It's possible to cover the trail in a weekend, making it a popular getaway date idea. Tastings at the wineries are all under $5, and the tasting rooms usually open around 10 a.m. Becky's Drive-In Get ready for a trip back in time. Becky's Drive-In is a vintage style drive-in movie theater that is a popular date spot for couples across Lehigh Valley. It serves up delicious ballpark-style foods (the chili dogs are a must-try), and regularly screens both classic favorites and blockbuster hits. Be sure to get there early so you can get a good spot! The theater is located at 4548 Lehigh Dr. in Walnutport. These three destinations make for super fun and unique date ideas! Image via Flickr by Gabriela Gordon
Breaking Down the 2018 C-HR Trim Levels
Uniquely stylized with tons of sporty flair, the 2018 C-HR is a fun and distinctive crossover SUV. Its equipped with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with a maximum horsepower capping out at 144. Its engine gets the crossover admirable gas mileage, EPA rated at 29 miles per gallon, mixed. There are two main trim levels for this affordable crossover, and we've created this small guide to help differentiate between the XLE and XLE Premium C-HR trims. XLE Starting at $22,500 MSRP, the XLE is the base model for the C-HR. It comes loaded with tons of features, including both entertainment and active safety technology. It's equipped with a 7-inch infotainment touchscreen with Bluetooth handsfree capabilities. Remote unlocking and locking is also standard, along with adjustable driver modes, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and a rearview camera. Other safety features include traffic-adapting cruise control, lane departure warning with intervention, and forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking. XLE Premium An upgrade to the XLE Premium trim costs a small price bump, bringing the MSRP up to $24,350. This upgrade gets you extra features, with the exterior largely unchanged. The XLE Premium boasts keyless entry and ignition, heated lumbar-adjustable front seats, and power folding mirrors. It also adds on a blind-spot monitoring active safety system with rear cross-traffic alert. It includes all of the features of the previous trim to provide drivers with an excellent range of trims. The C-HR is fun to drive and has plenty of features to please modern, budget-conscious drivers. Image via Flickr by Janitors
All About Toyota Safety Sense-P
The Toyota Safety Sense-P package is loaded with safety features to help improve the driving experience for all. Here's a small guide to this innovative technology group. Pre-Collision System The Pre-Collision system uses specialized radar detectors to respond to sudden slowdowns or obstacles in front of your car. It alerts the driver to these potential issues and, in the case of an emergency, can apply the brakes automatically. It can also detect moving pedestrians. This system is super handy in city driving situations where obstacles can appear without warning. Lane Departure Alert Using an alert system, Lane Departure Alert lets the driver know if they begin crossing into another lane when their turn signal isn't activated. This helps encourage mindful driving and can prevent accidental drifting. This system can be disabled if desired with a simple button push. Automatic High Beams This system uses a camera to track head or tail lights of other vehicles on the road at night to toggle between high and regular beam headlights. Automatic high beams will kick on if there are no other cars in the area that could be affected by it, providing extra visibility. Dynamic Radar Cruise Control Dynamic radar cruise control is one of the most popular active safety features available. It uses radars to measure the distance between your vehicle and the one before it to adjust the set cruise control speed and keep your vehicle a safe distance away. This improves the safety of using the cruise control system on long drives. These four systems are the key features of Toyota's Safety Sense-P package. Image via Flickr by Ivan Rigamonti