A panel meets at a Consumer Financial Protection Bureau symposium. As President Donald Trump seeks to weaken or eliminate the federal consumer watchdog agency, some states are considering how they can beef up their own protections against unfair business practices. (Photo by Bryce Spivey/Consumer Financial Protection Bureau via Flickr)

Illinois state Sen. Mark Walker already was working on legislation to bolster the state’s protections for consumers. But now that President Donald Trump has attacked the federal government’s consumer watchdog, Walker said it’s even more important for Illinois to act.

Walker, a Democrat, sponsored a bill to bolster the state’s existing bank regulator to help fill the void left by weakening of the federal Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, which Trump and billionaire Elon Musk have targeted for elimination.

Congress created the independent agency in 2010 in response to fallout of the Great Recession, when many people lost their homes, jobs or savings. It takes up individual consumer complaints, aims to protect against unfair banking practices and helps educate consumers. Weeks into Trump’s second term, the administration shuttered the bureau’s office, dropped pending cases against companies and ordered employees to stop work.

“The urgency is much higher now,” Walker said. “They apparently closed the doors and put everyone on leave. And I think it’s become critical now that we figure out exactly what we do to respond to these kinds of issues that consumers in Illinois have.”

Walker says the state attorney general and the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation have expertise in enforcing consumer protections. His bill, modeled after a previous successful effort in California, would give more authority to the state regulator to enforce state and federal consumer laws. But Illinois leaders already face a $3.2 billion budget deficit and are bracing for federal cuts to social service funding.

“It’s a matter of where it is on the set of priorities, some of which are a little bit hard to predict,” he said.

Experts say the uncertain future of the federal agency puts more pressure on state attorneys general and state financial regulators. Even though states have broad latitude in enforcing federal financial protections, advocates say they lack the might of the federal regulator. And partisan politics, along with existing budget shortfalls, means consumer enforcements will likely vary widely across the states.

The Trump administration has offered conflicting accounts about its plans for the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau.

In a court filing, the White House has said it doesn’t plan to kill the agency. But on Feb. 7, Musk posted an image of a headstone and the epitaph “CFPB RIP” on his social media platform X. Musk has expressed interest in adding a digital payment system to X — a financial product that the CFPB had said before Trump took office that it would regulate. Days after Musk’s post, the administration ordered employees to stop most work and fired dozens.

In the Oval Office on Feb. 10, Trump told reporters he planned to eliminate the bureau, which he said “was set up to destroy some very good people.”

“That was a very important thing to get rid of. And it was also a waste. I mean, number one, it was a bad group of people running it. But it was also a waste.”

Trump’s moves against the CFPB have been challenged in court, by agency employees, advocacy organizations and the city of Baltimore. In February, 23 states and the District of Columbia asked a federal judge in the Baltimore case to issue an injunction blocking the administration from defunding the bureau. Those states argue they will suffer irreparable harm by losing the CFPB’s processing of consumer complaints, data collection and distribution of money to harmed consumers.

‘A national emergency’

Since its inception, the bureau says it has returned more than $21 billion to millions of defrauded American consumers. The agency has helped consumers repair inaccuracies on credit reports, required banks to lower overdraft fees and set limits on credit card late fees.

Just months before the Great Recession began in late 2007, Elizabeth Warren, a Harvard Law professor at the time, proposed creation of a new federal agency to protect Americans from risky mortgages and overpriced credit products. Now a Democratic U.S. senator representing Massachusetts and a former presidential candidate, Warren last week said the agency “has been sidelined, but it is not dead.”

At a Thursday confirmation hearing, she grilled Jonathan McKernan, Trump’s pick to lead the agency. McKernan, a former member of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. board, said he would follow and enforce federal consumer laws, but said the agency has of late overreached its authority and is not accountable to Congress or the White House.

Warren questioned how he could effectively operate the agency if Trump wants it killed.

“It kind of feels like you’ve been lined up to be the number one horse at the glue factory,” she said.

During the hearing, news broke that the CFPB had just dropped at least four enforcement lawsuits, including one that accused Capital One of bilking customers out of more than $2 billion in interest.

An analysis by Democratic staff on the Senate Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs found an 80% drop in the number of consumer complaints the agency directed to companies since Feb. 3, when the Trump administration initiated a stop work order and fired critical staff.

“It’s a national emergency,” Massachusetts Attorney General Andrea Joy Campbell said at a forum Warren hosted earlier in the week before the Senate confirmation hearing to discuss weakening of the CFPB.

Campbell, a Democrat, said her office is focused on affordability issues and consumer protections, but she said some states are “stepping away wholeheartedly” from that work.

“It’s not consistent — what we’re doing in Massachusetts — in every single state across the country,” she said. “So you will have elders and veterans and other consumers who are left out without anyone to fight for them on their behalf, with no resources and weapons to fight back.”

Conservative groups such as The Heritage Foundation have criticized not only the reach of the CFPB but also its unique funding mechanism. While other agencies such as the Securities and Exchange Commission must seek congressional spending approval, the CFPB derives its funding directly from the Federal Reserve system.

At his confirmation hearing, McKernan said the agency needs to be refocused on its mission and made more efficient and more accountable to elected officials.

He said consumers must have a way to redress bad actors in the economy, but also that the billions the agency has returned to consumers is not evidence of its achievement.

“I don’t think we should evaluate the success of the CFPB based on dollar numbers or enforcement count,” McKernan said. “That’s like evaluating an official based on the number of fouls he calls during the game.”

What states can do

Just before Trump took office, the CFPB issued guidance on how states could strengthen their own consumer protections.

In a 34-page document, the agency underscored previous guidance giving states authority to enforce federal rules. And it noted that Congress explicitly gave states power to enact more aggressive local protections — though federal rules take precedence with some regulations regarding national banks.

“Federal law should be a floor, not a ceiling, for the protection of consumers,” the report said.

In December, the nonprofit Consumer Federation of America issued a slate of 10 policy recommendations for state leaders to ensure their residents “enjoy vital protections regardless of changes in federal policy.” Those included banning so-called junk fees, prohibiting the inclusion of medical debt on credit reports and outlawing “bait-and-switch” auto sales practices in which consumers are misled about the full cost, terms or availability of cars.

“They have the power to enforce federal law. Just because federal law is not being enforced in D.C. doesn’t mean it can’t be enforced by states,” said Lauren Saunders, associate director of the National Consumer Law Center, a nonprofit consumer advocacy organization.

She said conservative states have traditionally put less emphasis on consumer protection — a partisan divide she expects to see grow as the federal government pulls back.

“States have resource limits as well,” she said. “They can’t be everywhere and can’t cover every issue. So you just tend to have a lot more uneven protection when you’re relying totally on states.”

The National Association of Attorneys General did not respond to questions by publication time. Neither did the office of Kansas Attorney General Kris Kobach, who leads the Republican Attorneys General Association.

Without a strong CFPB, banks and other financial institutions could find themselves wading through disparate state rules and enforcement efforts, said Horacio Mendez, president and CEO of the Woodstock Institute, an Illinois-based nonprofit research and advocacy group focused on fair lending and financial systems.

A former bank executive, Mendez said there are legitimate debates about the structure of CFPB. But he said tearing down the bureau is not in the best interest of consumers or businesses, which can be harmed by the abusive practices of their competitors.

Some banks may eventually pressure the federal government if they start facing various state rules and actions, he said.

“It’s really just putting the burden on states to pick up the slack, and then on national businesses to try to work within this fragmented state-by-state regulatory environment,” Mendez said. “It’s really not efficient. If anything, it actually increases costs and complexity for everybody.”

Blue states worry about resources

Without a federal backstop, Mendez said he’s “all in” on the proposed Illinois legislation to expand the authority of the financial regulators.

“We’ve got to have some cop on the beat.”

Currently, the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation is only empowered to enforce specific state rules, said spokesperson Chris Slaby. The department has relied on the federal agency for staff training, information sharing and data collection.

“While IDFPR may be able to shift some priorities, it does not have the staffing or funding to replicate the CFPB,” Slaby said in a statement.

In a statement to Stateline, California Democratic Attorney General Rob Bonta’s office said it had long taken a “complementary” approach to the federal agency’s work.

“However, the sudden gutting of the CFPB leaves no oversight over large, national banks and credit unions, guts oversight of payday lenders, the mortgage markets, and credit reporting agencies — among many others — and rapidly and substantially increases the burden on state agencies to protect consumers,” the statement said.

In 2020, California Democratic Gov. Gavin Newsom signed a dozen bills aimed at boosting consumer protections. The state added more investigators and attorneys and created the Department of Financial Protection and Innovation — characterized as California’s version of the CFPB.

State agency spokesperson Mark Leyes said the department was “steadfast” in its commitments regardless of potential changes in Washington.

But state Sen. Monique Limón, a Democrat who sponsored some of that legislation, said Californians will have one fewer option for lodging complaints if the federal agency is crippled. That will likely increase demand on the state regulator.

And while California has some of the strongest protections and is well positioned to investigate consumer complaints, she said, it does not have the resources to fill the void of the federal agency: “Even if that’s the desire, it can’t.”

Stateline is part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. Stateline maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor Scott S. Greenberger for questions: info@stateline.org.

GET THE MORNING HEADLINES.

SUBSCRIBE

The January Round Table Meeting brought together thought leaders, farmers, innovators, and decision-makers from across the food and agriculture value chain to tackle some of the industry’s most pressing challenges. As we closed the meeting, we turned our focus to a topic that continues to shape the future of agriculture: biotech acceptance among key stakeholder groups. 

Through an engaging and interactive event storming session, participants explored the perspectives of producers, regulators, consumers, and investors. Each group shared unique insights, identified challenges, and brainstormed actionable solutions to build trust and drive innovation in biotechnology. 

In this blog post, we’ll break down the key takeaways from the discussion, highlighting both the obstacles and opportunities ahead. 

Producers: Championing Innovation and Access 

The producer discussion highlighted the challenges and opportunities faced by producers when it comes to biotech acceptance:

• Information and Education: Producers need access to clear, consistent information across the value chain to make informed decisions.
• Adoption of Innovation: Ensuring traits and technologies are accessible at reasonable costs is critical for adoption.
• Consumer-Centric Traits: Producers want to see more biotech traits developed that directly benefit consumers, creating stronger alignment across the food system.
• Cost Reductions: Biotech solutions must also address the bottom line for producers.

Proposed Solutions for Producers: 

Efforts should focus on developing accessible innovations, providing educational support, and aligning product development with consumer demand. 

Regulators: Bridging Science and Policy

The regulator discussion revealed the critical role regulators play in shaping biotech acceptance and how current challenges can be reframed into opportunities:

• New Administration, New Opportunities: A shift in the political administration opens doors for resetting regulatory approaches and fostering new collaborations.
• Better Storytelling for New Products: Biotech innovations with tangible benefits—especially those connected to producers—offer compelling stories that can resonate with policymakers and the public.
• Breaking the Litigation Cycle: Regulation often stems from fear rather than science, perpetuating a cycle of litigation and mistrust.

Proposed Solutions for Regulators:

1. Voting and Education: Engaging policymakers and educating them on science-based regulation are critical first steps.
2. Collaboration: Building stronger connections among businesses, government, consumers, and advisory groups can help align priorities. Farm Foundation can play an active role in fostering these partnerships.
3. Regulatory Reform: Streamlining FDA processes and addressing outdated regulatory hurdles can pave the way for innovation.

Consumers: Shifting Perceptions Through Education and Benefits 

The group discussing consumer perspectives highlighted a gap between biotech advancements and consumer understanding:

• Misinformation and Lack of Education: Many consumers receive conflicting or inaccurate information about biotech products, leading to confusion and mistrust.
• Perceived Lack of Benefits: Consumers feel biotech advancements have largely been producer-focused, with limited visible advantages for them.
• Health Concerns: Human health remains a key focus, with some consumers wary of biotech’s potential impact.
• The Power of Partnerships: Collaboration with organizations and the amplification of collective voices can build trust and credibility.
• Innovation for Consumers: Biotech has the potential to create exciting new products that directly benefit consumers, such as healthier or more sustainable food options.

Proposed Solutions for Consumers:

1. Education Campaigns: Leverage influencers, social media, and in-store experiences like product tastings to dispel myths and share success stories.
2. Engaging Youth: Develop interactive games or resources through programs like FFA and 4-H to educate younger generations about GMOs and biotech innovations.
3. Consumer-Centric Traits: Focus on developing biotech traits that resonate with consumer priorities, such as nutrition, sustainability, or affordability.

Investors: Fueling Innovation Ecosystems 

The investor discussion zeroed in on the financial and structural needs to support biotech innovation:

• Capital Access: Long-term funding models, such as 15-year funds or farmer angel networks, are essential to sustain biotech development.
• Regulatory Streamlining: Investors need clarity and predictability in the regulatory process to confidently back biotech ventures.
• Strengthening Partnerships: Enhanced collaboration between universities, startups, and industry players can accelerate the innovation pipeline.
• Consumer-Focused Tools: Developing tools for growers that directly benefit consumers can increase market demand for biotech products.

Proposed Solutions for Investors:

1. Encourage Collaboration: Foster partnerships between public and private sectors, as well as between universities and startups, to create a thriving innovation ecosystem.
2. Regulatory Education: Streamline regulatory processes and keep investors informed about ongoing progress in both their specific areas of work and the broader biotechnology regulations to minimize uncertainty and improve decision-making.
3. Long-Term Investments: Create funding mechanisms that align with the extended timelines often required for biotech innovation and adoption. 

Advancing Biotech Acceptance Together 

The January Round Table Meeting’s closing session highlighted a critical truth: advancing biotech acceptance requires a collective effort. From producers navigating innovation access, to regulators striving for science-based policy, to consumers seeking clarity and benefits, and investors fueling the innovation ecosystem—each stakeholder group brings unique perspectives and challenges to the table. 

What became abundantly clear during the discussion is that collaboration is not just beneficial; it’s essential.

By bridging gaps between groups and fostering mutual understanding, we can create a future where biotech innovations are not only accepted but embraced for their ability to transform agriculture, enhance sustainability, and improve lives. 

At Farm Foundation, we are committed to serving as a convener and catalyst for progress. Whether it’s educating policymakers, engaging consumers, or fostering partnerships between universities, startups, and industry leaders, we aim to ensure that every voice is heard and every challenge met with actionable solutions. 

Together, we grow stronger—and with that strength, we can unlock the full potential of biotechnology for the betterment of society. 

The post A Collaborative Look at Biotech Acceptance  appeared first on Farm Foundation.

Farm Foundation, an accelerator of practical solutions for agriculture, has announced its 2025 Agricultural Scholars recipients. This annual program is sponsored in partnership with the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Economic Research Service (ERS). Five graduate students were selected to join the program for inspiration and training in agricultural policy, commodity market analysis, agricultural finance, and other applied fields. This is the 6th cohort since the program began in 2020.

The program includes events and projects conducted throughout the year, including a mentorship with an ERS senior analyst, a research project, and participation in ag-focused forums and meetings, such as the USDA Ag Outlook Forum, AAEA’s Annual Meeting, and Farm Foundation Round Table meetings.

“This is just an incredible group of students,” says Program Manager Jenna Wicks. “Thanks to ERS’ continued generous partnership we are able to create a year of landmark opportunities for these program participants which will set them on rare footing as they enter their careers.”

The 2025 Agricultural Scholars are:
Isaac Albores, Virginia Tech
Isaac is currently a graduate research assistant at Virginia Tech, pursuing an M.S. in Agricultural and Applied Economics with a research focus on commodity market analysis. His current research examines agricultural commodities’ price dynamics and market volatility under varying market conditions and shocks.

Ivy Mackereth, West Virginia University
Ivy is a third-year student in the Natural Resource Economics Ph.D. Program at West Virginia University (WVU). Ivy’s research focuses on applications of big data in addressing economic issues in agriculture, food, and natural resources that affect local communities.

Caroline Roeder Helle, Montana State University
Caroline is a second-year Applied Economics M.S. student in the Department of Agricultural Economics and Economics at Montana State University. Her research focuses on maximizing the economic and ecological sustainability of working lands (lands managed for ecosystem services and agriculture).

Josh Strine, Purdue University
Josh is a second-year Ph.D. student in Agricultural Economics at Purdue University. Josh’s research focuses on agricultural finance and farm management. Since starting his Ph.D. program, he has researched the agricultural job market, agricultural lending, and crop prices.
Kelsey Vourazeris, Arizona State University
Kelsey is a Ph.D. student in Business Administration (Agribusiness) at Arizona State University’s W. P. Carey School of Business. She is dedicated to advancing knowledge and innovation in the field of Agricultural Economics, with a specialized focus on food supply chain resilience.

For more about each of the 2025 Agricultural Scholars and to learn more about the program at https://www.farmfoundation.org/programs-overview/agricultural-scholars/

The post Farm Foundation® Announces 2025 Agricultural Scholars appeared first on Farm Foundation.

Additional Promotions Also Announced

Farm Foundation, an accelerator of practical solutions for agriculture, is pleased to announce that Timothy Brennan has been selected as their vice president of programs and strategic impact, a new role reflecting the increased emphasis on prioritizing work with clearly defined impact.  

“Tim brings both breadth and depth to this role,” said Farm Foundation President and CEO Shari Rogge-Fidler. Brennan, who comes from an Ohio farm family and maintains his own hobby farm south of Chicago, joined Farm Foundation nearly 12 years ago to manage external relations. Brennan previously served in a variety of externally facing roles at the University of Chicago and Northwestern University.  Brennan also currently serves as the co-chair of the Chicago Wilderness Growing with Agriculture Green Vision Goal which seeks to bring conservationists and farmers together to protect and improve land in the states surrounding Lake Michigan.  

“As Farm Foundation continues to build on our past and expand our programs at our new Innovation and Education Campus (IEC) at our farm just outside of Chicago, Tim’s experience in fundraising, innovation, and coalition building makes him ideally suited for this role” said Rogge-Fidler.   

“I am thrilled for this opportunity,” Brennan said.  He goes on to say that “the Innovation and Education Center allows us to bring our programs and projects to life in new and exciting ways. Even though we are a 91-year-old organization, we have the spirit and drive of a start-up that fosters an exhilarating, enabling environment focused on real-world impact.” 

Additional Promotions Announced

Two additional promotions will bolster the next chapter of growth and impact at Farm Foundation.  Morgan Craven has been named as the director of programs and events, and Dr. Amanda L. Martin has been designated the new senior director of external relations.  

Craven came to Farm Foundation in 2015 as the events manager, then moved into the senior manager of events role before her latest promotion. Prior to joining the Farm Foundation team, Morgan served as the conference and events manager at Trinity Christian College and as a premium hospitality game-day staff member for the Chicago Bears NFL team. Craven also worked at various Hilton brand properties furthering her hospitality experience. She holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of North Carolina, Wilmington, in recreation, sports leadership, and tourism management. 

Martin joined the team in 2022 and has an extensive career in agriculture and higher education. Working within the colleges of agriculture at Auburn University and Louisiana State University, Martin most recently served as an assistant dean at LSU. Prior to making the move to Farm Foundation, Martin worked with the executive team at the American Egg Board. She earned her Ph.D. in Higher Education Administration at Louisiana State University and holds master’s and bachelor’s degrees from Southern Illinois University Carbondale in Agribusiness Economics. She currently serves as one of ten members selected to the National Agriculture Future of America Alliance Advisory Council. 

For over 90 years, Farm Foundation has been a pioneering force in agriculture, consistently leading the charge in developing ideas and fostering conversations that champion farmers and the agricultural community. In 2022, Farm Foundation took a bold step forward by becoming place-based, acquiring a century farm to deepen the understanding and experience of farming. This farm, alongside the Innovation and Education Center, will serve as the national headquarters for the organization.  

With this strategic addition, the latest innovations in agriculture, conservation, and technology will have a dedicated space to be showcased, allowing Farm Foundation to collaborate with stakeholders across the food and agriculture sectors in advancing the people and ideas that will shape the future. Rather than functioning as a tourist attraction or a research facility, this farm will provide agriculture leaders with authentic on-farm experiences through new programs. 

The Farm Foundation Innovation and Education Center (IEC) was officially opened on September 28^th with a public celebration that included food tasting stations, high-tech agriculture demonstrations and site tours.  The IEC is a state-of-the-art facility supporting a variety of uses, including gathering program participants to collaborate, community building, and engagement. There are also conservation projects, a variety of crops, and historic buildings on the campus.  

The post Farm Foundation Announces New Vice President of Programs and Strategic Impact appeared first on Farm Foundation.

The 2024 USDA ERS/Farm Foundation Agricultural Scholars recently completed their cohort year, presenting their capstone projects at the U.S. Department of Agriculture to USDA Economic Research Service staff during the second week of September.  

The group of 20 Ag Scholars presented on topics ranging from utility-scale solar energy, to labor markets, supplemental irrigation, and food loss and waste practices.  

After their presentations, the students met with USDA Deputy Under Secretary for Research, Education, and Economics Sanah Baig, USDA Chief Economist Dr. Seth Meyer, and met with the House and Senate Ag Committees.  

At the end of the week, the Ag Scholars also attended the September World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates (WASDE) Lockup. 

The 5th cohort’s productive year connected the students with their field of study in a deeply meaningful way and forged connections across the industry that will serve them well as they continue to develop as leaders.  

The post 2024 Ag Scholars Present Research at USDA appeared first on Farm Foundation.

• 

How to Jump-Start a Hybrid Car Battery

Just like traditional gas-powered vehicles, a hybrid car battery can be jump started when the battery is discharged. Jump-starting your hybrid shouldn’t stray too far from the process of their gas engine counterpart, though the same amount of caution should be taken.

Please note your jumper cable connectors should not be touching unless they are fully disconnected.

• Park your vehicle on a flat and dry surface
• Turn the vehicle off alongside all electrical components including the headlights and radio
• Place the positive jumper cable clamp (+) colored red on the positive battery terminal of your discharged hybrid battery or positive jump post
• Place the positive clamp on the positive terminal of the functioning car battery
• Place the negative battery (-) colored black on the negative terminal of the functioning car battery
• Place the negative clamp on the negative battery terminal of the dead battery or negative jump post
• Start the engine of the vehicle with the functioning battery and lightly press the accelerate for about five minutes
• Start the engine of your hybrid with the discharged battery
• Remove the negative clamp from the previously-dead battery
• Remove the negative clamp from the functioning battery
• Remove the positive clamp from the functioning battery
• Remove the positive clamp from the previously-dead battery

What Causes a Hybrid Battery to Die?

While it may be difficult to narrow down the exact cause of your hybrid battery dying, there are a few main culprits that tend to pop up:

• Loose battery terminals can cause a discharged battery in both gas and hybrid vehicles. In order to avoid this, inspect your battery terminals when your Toyota is turned off.
• Extremely cold temperatures can negatively affect the 12-volt battery by slowing down battery chemistry
• Parasitic draw happens when something electric, like a cabin light being left or a door not being closed all the way, drains your car battery.

If you’re having constant issues with your Toyota hybrid battery, schedule a service appointment with us at our Toyota service center in Madison. If you have any questions or need more information about caring for your hybrid car battery, contact us online at Smart Toyota.

About Smart Motors

Founded in 1908 by O.D. Smart, Smart Motors is one of the nation’s oldest automotive dealerships, the Midwest’s largest hybrid dealer, Wisconsin’s Largest Toyota Certified Used Vehicle dealer and one of Wisconsin’s largest volume new Toyota dealers. Located in Madison, Smart Motors is Wisconsin’s only two-time President’s Cabinet Award recipient from Toyota Motor Sales for superior customer service & sales volume.

The post How to Jump-Start Your Hybrid appeared first on Smart Toyota Blog.

The Toyota RAV4 Hybrid allows you to expand your automotive experience, combining gas and electric power while retaining the signature Toyota reliability you know and love. A huge part of why you can continue to depend on Toyota vehicles is performance, which the RAV4 Hybrid surely delivers.

The 2023 RAV4 Hybrid features Electronic On-Demand All-Wheel Drive, providing all-weather capability and confident on-road driving dynamics. This system utilizes a dedicated electric drive motor to automatically supply power to the rear wheels for instant improvement in traction, letting you explore new grounds.

The all-wheel drive system is perfect for the city and suburbs as well, providing added peace of mind through inclement weather. 

More 2023 RAV4 Hybrid Performance Highlights

The RAV4 Hybrid packs a punch with 219 combined net horsepower for great acceleration through highway speeds. Along with an EPA-estimated rating of 41 miles per gallon in the city, you can retain efficiency, as well.

Enjoy a variety of drive modes behind the wheel to tailor your experience on or off-road:

• Normal Mode: utilizes both gas and electric to keep you going
• Eco Mode: helps increase fuel efficiency by reducing acceleration levels
• EV Mode: pulls power from the battery to maximize efficiency for short distances
• Sport Mode: provides a boost in acceleration
• Trail Mode: helps manage traction when in off-road settings

Those interested in enhanced power and acceleration should consider the RAV4 Hybrid SE and XSE models, featuring a sport-tuned suspension, tauter shock absorbers and springs.

Are you looking to try out the new RAV4 Hybrid for yourself? Schedule a test drive with us at our Madison, WI dealership. If you have any questions about hybrid vehicles or Electric On-Demand All-Wheel Drive, contact us online at Smart Toyota.

About Smart Motors

Founded in 1908 by O.D. Smart, Smart Motors is one of the nation’s oldest automotive dealerships, is the mid-west’s largest hybrid dealer, is Wisconsin’s Largest Toyota Certified Used Vehicle dealer and one of Wisconsin’s largest volume new Toyota dealers. Located in Madison Wisconsin, Smart Motors is Wisconsin’s only two-time President’s Cabinet Award recipient from Toyota Motor Sales for superior customer service & sales volume. More about Smart Motors.about Smart Motors.

The post Does the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid Have 4-Wheel Drive? appeared first on Smart Toyota Blog.

If you’re prioritizing passenger and cargo space while wanting to maintain performance, choosing a new Toyota SUV with third row seating is a great way to go. With select models featuring third-row seating, you can get the capability you crave, while at the same time, bringing everyone and everything along for the ride.

From reliability to comfort and style, these Toyota SUVs with third-row seating tick all the necessary boxes, so you can cruise throughout Madison and far beyond without a second thought.

Toyota SUVs with Third-Row Seating

2023 Toyota 4Runner

Blazing trails with power and style, that’s the ever capable 2023 Toyota 4Runner. In addition to a third row, the Toyota 4Runner features Smart Key System with Push Button Start, Toyota Safety Sense P, as well as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. In the world of rugged off-road SUVs, the Toyota 4Runner has been a long-standing icon. With the release of the 2023 Toyota 4Runner, Toyota continues to uphold its reputation for crafting durable, adventurous vehicles that can conquer any terrain. The latest iteration of this beloved SUV brings together enhanced performance, advanced technology, and a refreshed design, making it an irresistible choice for both off-road enthusiasts and everyday drivers seeking a touch of adventure in their lives. 

2023 Toyota Highlander

Consider the new Toyota Highlander for your next SUV, with the third row of seating providing seating for up to eight passengers. Along with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, you can have peace of mind on every drive. At first glance, the 2023 Highlander exudes confidence with its striking design. Sculpted lines and a prominent grille give it an assertive stance while maintaining an aura of sophistication. LED headlights and taillights not only enhance visibility but also contribute to its modern aesthetic. Step inside, and you’ll be greeted by a refined interior that exudes comfort and luxury. Premium materials and meticulous attention to detail create an atmosphere that rivals high-end vehicles. With spacious seating for up to eight passengers, the Highlander ensures that every journey is enjoyed in utmost comfort. Toyota has never been shy about embracing technology, and the 2023 Highlander is no exception. Whether it’s daily commuting, weekend getaways, or hauling cargo, the 2023 Highlander adapts to your lifestyle with ease. Fold-flat rear seats provide impressive cargo space, perfect for larger items. And with a towing capacity that rivals many trucks, this SUV is ready for adventure, whether you’re towing a camper or a boat.

2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid

Identical to its gas-powered counterpart, the Toyota Highlander Hybrid seats up to eight across three rows of seating. In a world increasingly focused on sustainability and efficiency, the automotive industry continues to evolve and adapt to meet the demands of eco-conscious consumers. The 2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid stands as a prime example of this evolution, seamlessly combining cutting-edge technology, comfort, and eco-friendliness in a single package. This hybrid SUV boasts an advanced hybrid powertrain that combines a fuel-efficient gasoline engine with an electric motor, allowing for an impressive blend of power and efficiency. With its intelligent energy management system, the Highlander Hybrid optimizes power distribution, seamlessly switching between the gasoline engine and electric motor to deliver a smooth and efficient driving experience. This not only translates to fewer stops at the fuel pump but also contributes to reduced carbon emissions—a win-win for both drivers and the environment. The 2023 Highlander Hybrid’s exterior design exudes elegance and modernity. Its sleek lines and aerodynamic profile not only enhance its visual appeal but also contribute to improved fuel efficiency. Signature LED headlights illuminate the road ahead while lending the vehicle a distinctive look that’s instantly recognizable. As the automotive landscape continues to change, the 2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid emerges as a shining example of innovation and sustainability. It’s a vehicle that embraces the needs and desires of today’s drivers, offering a seamless blend of performance, comfort, and eco-consciousness. 

2023 Toyota Sequoia

In the world of full-size SUVs, the Toyota Sequoia emerges as a true powerhouse, blending rugged durability with modern sophistication and of course, three rows of seating. With its revamped design, enhanced features, and unwavering performance, the Sequoia continues to make a bold statement in the ever-evolving automotive landscape. Step inside the Sequoia, and you’re greeted with a spacious and luxurious cabin that comfortably accommodates up to eight passengers. Premium materials and meticulous craftsmanship are evident throughout, providing a sense of refinement that elevates the driving experience. With available features like heated and ventilated seats, a panoramic moonroof, and advanced infotainment options, the Sequoia ensures that both driver and passengers travel in style and comfort. The 2023 Sequoia embraces modern technology, offering a range of features designed to keep you connected and safe on the road. The intuitive infotainment system includes a large touchscreen display with smartphone integration, allowing you to access navigation, entertainment, and communication with ease. Advanced driver-assistance features such as adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking provide an extra layer of safety and peace of mind. Whether you’re navigating city streets or embarking on an off-road escapade, the Sequoia is more than just an SUV—it’s a symbol of reliability and adventure rolled into one. 

2024 Toyota Grand Highlander

Discover the much-anticipated 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander. This extraordinary SUV harmonizes Toyota’s renowned reliability and elegance with the capaciousness and opulent attributes expected from a premier vehicle. With a commanding and vigorous exterior design, the Grand Highlander commands attention on the road, captivating onlookers at every turn. Its contemporary appeal is accentuated by sleek LED headlights and the iconic Toyota grille, while its refined contours and aerodynamic silhouette augment its efficiency and prowess. Meticulously crafted using upscale materials, the spacious cabin guarantees a top-tier driving experience for all occupants. Accommodating up to eight passengers with generous legroom across all three rows, the Grand Highlander offers unparalleled adaptability and luxury, whether embarking on long voyages or navigating daily commutes. Packed with cutting-edge technology and safety enhancements, encompassing an intuitive infotainment system, advanced driver-assistance mechanisms, and a panoramic sunroof, this SUV seamlessly blends convenience, entertainment, and assurance. Whether maneuvering urban streets or embarking on outdoor escapades, the 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander stands as the impeccable companion, delivering exceptional performance, unmatched dependability, and a hint of opulence in every single drive.

If you’re interested in a Toyota SUV with third-row seating, schedule a test drive with us at our Madison dealership or visit us in person for a closer look. If you have any questions about our Toyota SUVs or potential financing options, be sure to contact us at Smart Motors Toyota.

About Smart Motors

Founded in 1908 by O.D. Smart, Smart Motors is one of the nation’s oldest automotive dealerships, is the mid-west’s largest hybrid dealer, is Wisconsin’s Largest Toyota Certified Used Vehicle dealer and one of Wisconsin’s largest volume new Toyota dealers. Located in Madison Wisconsin, Smart Motors is Wisconsin’s only two-time President’s Cabinet Award recipient from Toyota Motor Sales for superior customer service & sales volume. More about Smart Motors.

The post Which Toyota SUV has Third Row Seating? appeared first on Smart Toyota Blog.

The post Which Toyota Car Is Best In Snow? appeared first on Smart Toyota Blog.

Vehicle winterization – whether this will be your first winter in Wisconsin, or you’re born and raised in cheese-country, it’s something every Wisconsinite must prepare for. The morning temperatures are dipping below freezing, highs are lucky to break freezing, accumulating snow will soon be piling up, but have you winterized your vehicle? Thankfully, most of us only need to brave these elements for brief periods at a time, usually as long as it takes to go from a heated building to one’s vehicle and back into another heated sanctuary. But if the freezing temps, gusty winds, and icy snow in the Madison area are hard on you for the few moments you’re out, think about the brutal beating your car takes.

Your vehicle may have been sitting out for hours. The last thing you want to do is trudge over the frozen landscape, reach your vehicle, turn the key in the ignition, and – oh no! – all you hear is a hideous series of click-click-clicks, groans, and exhausted whirs. The engine isn’t turning over. Why didn’t you winterize your ride!?

Luis Roman, Assistant Service Manager at Smart Motors in Madison, says there’s no time like the present to start getting your vehicle in shape for the unpredictable winter season. He says every year he is asked by multiple people what the most important factors are when preparing a vehicle for the challenges winter can pose. And with the Farmers’ Almanac predicting a snowy winter with colder than normal temperatures, it is probably a good idea to take note of the winterization check list he shares with others.

“The top item on any vehicle winterization list is fairly obvious,” he says. “It’s having a quality, fully charged, and undamaged BATTERY.”

Roman says it takes more power to start a car in the winter because battery power decreases as the temperature drops. If your battery is already having problems, your risk of breaking down or becoming stranded increases. It is recommended to have a battery with at least the vehicle manufacturers CCA rating, most hybrids will have 12 volt batteries under 400 CCA which are fine for that application

The second and third items on Roman’s list are TIRES and BRAKES. Thankfully the cold doesn’t necessarily harm these components, but it doesn’t hurt to make sure they are in the best condition to handle the hazards of winter driving. He says most drivers don’t think about their tires until they have to swerve or brake suddenly – often with serious consequences. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, about nine percent of vehicle crashes are tire-related and could be prevented with proper tire maintenance.

“All-season tires are what I recommend to most drivers,” says Roman. “They’re great for people with short commutes and little reason to veer far from the beaten path.” According to Roman, all-season tires are also very convenient, as they don’t need to be swapped out with any other set of tires seasonally.

“When people need to commute to and from work from a rural area, I almost always say they should go with snow tires,” says Roman. “They can swap out with their regular tires in early November or so. And having two sets of tires puts less wear and tear on both pairs, so you can have them for quite a long while.”

Top Five Best Winter Tires

• Michelin X-Ice Xi3
• Bridgestone Blizzak WS90
• Dunlop Winter Maxx WM02
• General AltiMAX Arctic
• Continental Winter Contact TS830

Shop for tires for your for your vehicle.

The fourth item on Roman’s list is WINDSHIELD WIPER BLADES. He says that there are blades specifically made for winter driving, and they could really be a lifesaver.

“You really never know what winter is going to throw at you, so it’s best to be prepared,” he says. “It could be freezing rain, wintery mix, wet snow, or the car in front of you splashing your windshield with the dirty, salty slush on the road. Windshields really take a beating in the winter.”

The amount of debris that could potentially block your view needs to be cleared for you to be able to navigate the winter roads safely. Roman says he constantly hears about harrowing journeys drivers make with bad wipers that just smear the slush around instead of clearing it off the windshield. Or there are the wipers that don’t make contact with the windshield at all! These wipers need to be replaced for your safety and for the safety of others.

“Wiper blades are inexpensive, and many people can install them themselves,” he says. “So please check yours before the snow flies. The last thing you want to do is drive blind.”

Roman says there are a few other items that you might want to have a professional check for you before winter is in full swing:

What Should I Have My Mechanic Inspect On My Car Before Winter?

• The cooling system – Your automotive service technician can tell you what antifreeze should be used and the appropriate coolant-to-water ratio to avoid potential freezing.
• Belts, hoses, spark plugs, wires and cables – While they can go bad at any time, if they do in the winter, you could be stuck in the cold for an unfortunately long period.

“These areas might seem small compared to the engine or fuel intake system, but without the small things aiding the large items, your vehicle will not function properly,” he says.

Aside from vehicle winterization, Roman says for safety reasons all motorists should have a cell phone and a phone charger handy, and drivers shouldn’t let their gas go much below a half tank in the wintertime, either. Plus he recommends keeping a worst-case-scenario-kit in your vehicle, filled with the following items:

What Items Should I Keep In My Car During Winter In Wisconsin?

• A blanket
• Several heavy duty garbage bags: Can be a makeshift rain coat; keep your clothing off the wet ground when changing a tire, or to collect wet items.
• A shovel
• Kitty Litter – which can help aid in traction
• Jumper cables or a battery-powered portable booster
• Flashlight or emergency light
• First aid kit
• Food
• Jack and spare tire: Know how to use them — practice if necessary.

About Smart Motors

Smart Motors was founded in 1908 by O.D. Smart and is one of the nation’s oldest automotive dealerships, is the mid-west’s largest hybrid dealer and one of Wisconsin’s largest volume Toyota dealers. Located at 5901 Odana Road, Smart Motors is Wisconsin’s only two-time President’s Cabinet Award recipient from Toyota Motor Sales for superior customer service & sales volume. For more information, check out their history.

The post Tips & Advice For Winterizing Your Car, Truck, Or SUV In Wisconsin. appeared first on Smart Toyota Blog.