What the Toyota Configurator Does
Toyota's online configurator is a tool on Toyota's website that lets you build a vehicle step-by-step, choosing the model, color, interior, features, and packages you want. As you make choices, the configurator shows you the price, updates the image of the vehicle, and displays which options are available together. At the end, you can save your configuration, print it, email it to a dealer, or use it as a starting point for a purchase conversation.
The configurator does not place an order or lock in a price. It is a planning tool that helps you understand what a specific vehicle costs and what combinations of features are possible before you contact a dealer or visit a showroom.
Key Takeaways
- The Toyota configurator is found on Toyota's official website under the "Build and Price" or similar section for each model year.
- You choose the model, trim level, exterior color, interior color, wheels, and optional packages in sequence, and the price updates after each choice.
- Some options are mutually exclusive — for example, you cannot add certain packages to certain trim levels — and the configurator will gray out unavailable choices.
- Once you finish building your vehicle, you can save the configuration, email it to a dealer, or print it to bring to a dealership.
- The price shown is the manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) and does not include taxes, fees, or dealer discounts.
Finding the Configurator on Toyota's Website
Go to Toyota's main website and look for a button or link labeled "Build and Price," "Configure Your Vehicle," or "Build Your Toyota." This link is usually on the homepage or in the main navigation menu. Click it, and you will be taken to a page where you can select which model you want to configure — for example, Camry, RAV4, Corolla, or Highlander.
If you cannot find the link, search for "[Model Name] Build and Price Toyota" in your web browser. The configurator is free to use and does not require you to create an account, though some dealers may ask for your email address if you choose to send your configuration to them.
Step-by-Step: Building Your Vehicle
Step 1: Select the model year and body style. The configurator will show you the current model year available. Some years may have multiple body styles — for instance, the RAV4 comes in standard and hybrid versions. Choose the one you want.
Step 2: Choose your trim level. Trim levels determine the base features and price. A LE trim is usually the entry-level option with fewer standard features, while a Limited or Platinum trim includes more comfort and technology features. The configurator shows what comes standard with each trim.
Step 3: Pick exterior color. The image of the vehicle updates as you select each color. Some colors may have an upcharge beyond the base price. The configurator will show this additional cost clearly.
Step 4: Select interior color and material. You will choose between options like black, gray, or tan, and materials like cloth, synthetic leather, or genuine leather. Leather and premium materials typically cost more.
Step 5: Select wheels. Standard wheels come with the trim you chose. Upgrade wheels are usually offered in sets and will increase the price. The image updates to show your wheel choice.
Step 6: Add optional packages and features. This is where you can add technology packages (like navigation or safety features), comfort packages (heated seats, sunroof), or individual options. The configurator will show which packages are compatible with your trim level. Some high-end features may only be available on higher trims.
Step 7: Review the final price and configuration. The configurator displays the total MSRP, a breakdown of what you chose, and an image of your configured vehicle. This is your chance to go back and change anything before saving or sharing.
Understanding Price and Availability Restrictions
The price shown in the configurator is the manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP). This is what Toyota recommends dealers charge, but it does not include taxes, registration fees, documentation fees, or dealer-specific charges. The actual price you pay at a dealership may be different based on dealer discounts, incentives, or your location.
Some options cannot be combined. For example, if you choose a certain package, the configurator may gray out conflicting options or show a message explaining why a choice is not available. This prevents you from building an impossible vehicle. If you want a feature that appears unavailable, try changing your trim level or removing a conflicting package — the configurator will show you what becomes available.
Availability also depends on the model year and current production. If a color or option shows as unavailable, it may mean that option is not being produced for that model year, or it may be on backorder. A dealer can tell you whether something can be special-ordered.
Saving and Sharing Your Configuration
Once you finish building your vehicle, the configurator offers several options. You can save the configuration to your device by taking a screenshot or using your browser's print-to-PDF feature. You can also email the configuration directly to a Toyota dealer — the configurator will ask for the dealer's zip code or let you select from nearby dealers, then send them your build details.
Some configurators let you create an account and save multiple configurations so you can compare different builds later. Check whether this option is available on the Toyota website version you are using.
Bring your saved configuration to a dealership when you visit. It gives the sales team a clear picture of what you want and makes the conversation faster. Dealers can also use it to check real-time inventory, see if they have your exact configuration in stock, or discuss how long a special order would take.
What the Configurator Cannot Do
The configurator is a planning tool, not a shopping tool. It does not show you which vehicles are actually in stock at nearby dealerships, and it does not let you purchase directly. You cannot reserve or hold a vehicle through the configurator — you must contact a dealer to do that.
The configurator also does not account for dealer incentives, rebates, or financing offers, which change frequently and vary by location and credit profile. A dealer can discuss current incentives with you once you visit or call.
Finally, the configurator shows only standard and commonly available options. If you are interested in rare colors, discontinued packages, or dealer-installed accessories, ask a dealer directly — they may have options not listed in the configurator.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the price in the configurator include delivery and taxes?
No. The price shown is MSRP only. It does not include destination charges (delivery from the factory), taxes, registration, title, or dealer fees. Your actual out-of-pocket cost will be higher. A dealer can give you a full quote that includes all fees.
Can I order a vehicle directly from the configurator?
No. The configurator is for planning and comparison only. To order or purchase, you must contact a Toyota dealer. You can email your configuration to a dealer through the configurator, or print it and bring it to a showroom.
What if the color or option I want is grayed out?
Some options are not available with certain trim levels or packages. Try changing your trim level or removing a conflicting package to see if your desired option becomes available. If it remains grayed out, that option may not be produced for that model year. A dealer can tell you whether it can be special-ordered or when it might be available again.
Can I save multiple configurations to compare them?
Most Toyota configurators let you save configurations by email or screenshot. Some allow you to create an account and store multiple builds. Check the configurator interface for a "Save" or "My Builds" option. If you do not see one, take screenshots of each configuration so you can compare them later.
How long does it take to get a vehicle I configured if it is not in stock?
That depends on the dealer and current production schedules. A dealer can tell you whether your exact configuration is in stock, and if not, how long a special order typically takes. This can range from a few weeks to several months depending on the model and current demand.