Introducing the First 2020 Corolla Hybrid
The popular Toyota Corolla is getting even better. The first Corolla Hybrid will arrive in the spring of 2019 with all the updates of the all-new 2020 Corolla along with a hybrid powertrain. This sedan will come with the latest Safety Sense suite of advanced safety systems, new technology, and special hybrid badging. 
The Powertrain
The Corolla Hybrid will get the same Hybrid Synergy Drive system as the Prius. This includes a power-split transaxle with two motors that work alongside a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine. A nickel-metal hydride battery pack will charge the electric motors and combined the system will produce 121 horsepower. All the Corolla models will come with front-wheel drive and have Normal, Eco, and Sport driving modes to choose from. The Corolla Hybrid will also have an EV mode that will allow the driver to use pure electric power for short distances. Read the rest of this entry »
The warmer weather that comes with spring on Long Island makes it the perfect time to get outside and get some fresh air. In West Islip and the surrounding areas, there are some wonderful parks where you can take a walk, watch the kids play, or just relax on a bench. Check out these West Islip-area parks this spring.

Image “Unknown” by terryballard, used under CC BY 2.0
Argyle Park
Argyle Park in nearby Babylon offers some pretty views of the pond with a nice loop walk that winds its way around the main lake. This is a dog-friendly park and there is also a playground for the kids. There are always lots of ducks and geese around to see, and you might even see a swan out on the lake. The paved walking surface is nice and level, making it a good place for all levels of walking and running. Read the rest of this entry »
Best Places to Bring the Kids Near West Islip
If you are looking for a way to keep the kids entertained, there are plenty of family-friendly activities in the West Islip area. Whether you want to stay inside or spend the day outside in the fresh air, there are events and activities for the whole family. Here are some of the best places to bring the kids near West Islip.

Image “Unknown Name” by crazbabe21, used under CC BY 2.0
Monster Mini Golf
Turn a game of mini golf into an experience at Monster Mini Golf. This facility is a state-of-the-art indoor mini-golf course complete with monster attractions. The 18-hole course features monster-themed decor and animated monsters along the way, and the whole course runs under black lights, so everything is illuminated. Once you finish playing a round of golf, there is also a gaming arcade complete with lots of prizes. Bring the kids for an afternoon of fun on a rainy day or host a birthday party in one of the private event rooms. Read the rest of this entry »
The RAV4 Hybrid received some significant upgrades for 2019 just like the regular RAV4. This compact SUV has a spacious interior, comes with the latest safety technology, and takes everything you love about the RAV4 and makes it better. Here is everything you need to know about the 2019 RAV4 Hybrid.
The Trim Levels
The 2019 model comes in four different trim levels. The base level LE starts the lineup with 17-inch wheels, LED headlights, and roof rails. It also has daytime running lights. Bumping up to the XLE adds extra safety technology and the option for the Weather package. This adds automatic windshield wipers with a de-icer. Stepping up again to the XSE gets you 18-inch black painted wheels, two-tone exterior paint, and the option for the Technology package. The Limited trim sits at the top of the lineup with 18-inch chrome wheels. Read the rest of this entry »
3 Toyota Hybrids Worth Considering
As the conservation of our planet is no longer an option but a priority, it is the responsibility of every person to reduce his/her carbon footprint. One of the most effective ways to do so is to invest in a hybrid vehicle. Not only does a hybrid car produce far less CO2 emissions, but will also save you on fuel. Toyota offers a whole range of hybrid models, ranging from compact sedans to full-size SUVs. Here is some info on three Toyota hybrid models.
- Camry Hybrid
The 2019 Camry Hybrid boasts impressive fuel efficiency, respectable performance, and loads of modern technology. You’ll get strong acceleration from its powertrain that consists of a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and electric motor, paired with variable automatic transmission, producing 176 horsepower and 163 pound-feet of torque. Thanks to the Camry Hybrid’s Independent MacPherson strut front suspension and sophisticated multi-link rear suspension, you’ll also enjoy a smooth ride both on and off the road.
The Camry Hybrid features a lot of modern technology. Apple CarPlay compatibility, for instance, is now a standard feature and so is the Toyota Safety Sense suite, which includes a pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, lane departure alert, automatic high beams, and dynamic radar cruise control. You could also opt for available features such as a head-up display, a bird’s-eye view camera, and Wi-Fi. Read the rest of this entry »
5 Reasons to Rely on Toyota Safety Sense
The majority of car accidents are caused by vehicle-on-vehicle collisions, traffic lane departures, and limited night visibility. Toyota has taken these statistics into consideration during the development of its Toyota Safety Sense (TSS) package, which is a suite that consists of advanced safety and driver-assist technologies. What really impresses is that most new Toyota vehicles

feature this safety suite as standard equipment. Here is some more info on the different technologies included with the TSS suite.
- Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection
The pre-collision system with pedestrian detection is designed to minimize the rate of potential collisions with other vehicles actually materializing. This technology uses an in-vehicle camera and a radar sensor to detect when a frontal collision is possible or likely. It then alerts the driver with audio and visual alerts, and if the driver doesn’t respond, automatically applies the brakes in order to reduce speed and hopefully avoid a frontal collision, or at least minimize the severity of the impact. Read the rest of this entry »
How to Wear a Seat Belt During Pregnancy
Although it may seem cumbersome and uncomfortable to wear a safety belt during pregnancy, you should most definitely not avoid doing so. If you wear the safety belt correctly, you’ll endure minimum discomfort and it will in no way harm the baby. Moreover, wearing a safety belt could potentially save both you and your baby’s lives in the event of a car accident.
Apart from these all-important factors, the law requires everyone to buckle up. A few exemptions from wearing a safety belt do exist. If you’re, for instance, supervising a learner driver, or driving a delivery truck that travels no more than 50 meters between stops, you are exempt. But, as a pregnant woman, you’ll only be excused from wearing a safety belt if a doctor decides that you’re not required to wear one based on medical grounds. If this is the case, you’ll have to produce a certificate when stopped by traffic officers.
Here is some more valuable information regarding safety-belt usage during pregnancy. Read the rest of this entry »
3 Best Toyota’s for College Students
What the average college student requires from a car is affordability, fuel efficiency, and loads of modern technology. As most young students are not that experienced behind the wheel, a car that offers advanced safety and driver-assist features is also advisable.
- Yaris
With an MSRP of $15,450, the 2019 Toyota Yaris is most definitely affordable. It also offers good estimated fuel-economy ratings of 32 mpg in the city and 40 mpg on the highway, so you won’t end up spending all your pocket money on fuel.
The Yaris boasts impressive performance, safety, and modern tech for its low price. Its 1.5-liter engine, which is good for 106 horsepower and 103 pound-feet of torque, will give you respectable power, while the MacPherson strut front suspension and a torsion beam rear suspension will afford you a smooth ride and sharp handling.
Standard safety gear featured with the Yaris includes dynamic stability control, a traction control system, brake assist, electronic brake-force distribution, and an anti-lock brake system. The Yaris also boasts a standard low-speed pre-collision system. A standard infotainment system, consisting of a 7-inch display, a backup camera, six speakers, a USB port, and Bluetooth, is also offered with the Yaris. Other convenient standard equipment includes push-button start and a 60/40 split-folding rear seat. Read the rest of this entry »
Is the 2019 Prius c the Best Hybrid Commuter Car?
Over the past few years, hybrid and electric cars have constantly grown in popularity. A pioneer of the industry, Prius has always been popular with environmentally-conscious drivers and continues to be a big hit today, more than 20 years after the first model was launched. Qualities such as comfort, fuel efficiency, technology, and safety all make the 2019 Prius c the perfect car for commuters everywhere. 
Excellent Fuel Efficiency
Aside for lessening the burden on the environment, 2019 Prius c’s hybrid technology has another major upside: it is very fuel-efficient. Its conventional gasoline engine works together with the battery to combine for a decent 99 horsepower, more than enough for city traffic and everyday commute. EPA ratings show that the Prius can drive up to 48 miles with a single gallon of gas, an excellent range for a car this spacious.
Comfort and Technology
Although gas consumption is significantly lower than similarly-sized and even smaller gas-powered cars, the Prius c is also big enough to comfortably fit four adults. It’s also very pleasant to drive around town or on longer commutes, due to its great drivability, solid braking, and responsive steering. Although it’s equipped with low rolling resistance tires for extra efficiency, the Prius c manages to cancel out exterior noise and vibration.
Although it’s a compact car, you wouldn’t know it by just looking at the interior. The seats are comfortable and the space inside doesn’t feel cramped, even when it’s full. The 17.1 cubic feet behind the seats are more than enough for things like groceries and even a very large suitcase. If you don’t need the passenger space, the two back seats fold, making way for an impressive cargo space. Read the rest of this entry »
Get Out Into Nature at These 4 Places in West Islip
No matter how busy and artificial modern life gets, people will always feel the need to reconnect with nature. Although West Islip, New York is close to one of the most densely populated areas in the world, there are plenty of great opportunities to escape the concrete jungle and get reacquainted with your natural roots.
- Gardiner County Park
If you live in or around West Islip and you’re looking for a place nearby where you can take a peaceful long hike or take your dog out for a walk, you should look no further than Gardiner County Park. Residing south of the Montauk Highway and initially owned by the Gardiner family, this 231-acre public park is the ideal place to spend an afternoon. You’ll probably encounter people just like you, who are out on nature hikes or just enjoying the breathtaking scenery.
Although you’ll be in a natural environment, you can still enjoy a picnic and The Parks Department will supply you with the setting and tools you need to enjoy a day out with friends and family. Restrooms are also present throughout the park, giving you just enough of civilization to properly and safely enjoy the natural landscape. Read the rest of this entry »



