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Whether you are planning an apple picking adventure or preparing for a weekend road trip to visit friends, the 2015 Toyota Highlander is an ideal crossover sports-utility vehicle for all of your family’s adventures! Drivers will likely be excited to learn that the 2015 Toyota Highlander includes a long list of convenient features, a comfortable interior, and an authoritative powertrain. more The 2015 Toyota Highlander is available in five trim levels: LE, LE Plus, XLE, Limited, and Limited Platinum. Automatic headlights, heated exterior mirrors, a rear spoiler, and 18-inch alloy wheels are all standard on the 2015 Toyota Highlander LE. Inside the 2015 Toyota Highlander LE, drivers and passengers can relax in the spacious cabin that is outfitted with a six-speaker audio system, a rearview camera, and a 6.1-inch central touchscreen. Alternatively, the 2015 Toyota Highlander XLE comes standard with roof rails, a sunroof, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, and a navigation system.   Underneath the hood, the 2015 Toyota Highlander LE is equipped with a 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 185 horsepower and 184 pound-foot of torque. With the four-cylinder engine paired to the six-speed automatic transmission, the 2015 Toyota Highlander delivers an EPA-estimated 20 miles per gallon in the city and 25 miles per gallon on the highway. All other trim levels of the 2015 Toyota Highlander come standard with a 3.5-liter V6 engine that pumps out 270 horsepower and 248 pound-foot of torque.   If you are interested in learning more about the practical features available on the 2015 Toyota Highlander, please stop in to your local Classic Toyota dealership, which is conveniently located in Waukegan, Ill. While in our showroom, drivers are invited to check out our wide selection of new and pre-owned Toyota vehicles, including a certified Toyota Highlander. Waukegan customers can also contact our experienced and professional team to schedule a test drive and get behind the wheel of a 2015 Toyota Highlander today!

Hello everyone! Fred Marks here continuing my monthly blog series, True Marksmanship. If ever you needed more proof that the Toyota brand is a leader in the world of efficiency innovations and technology, the latest update from the iconic automaker should do the trick. Can you imagine the 2014 Toyota Prius being 10 percent more efficient? Or the Toyota Camry Hybrid. This is what Toyota hopes will result from their newly developed semiconductor chip, made from the the hardest materials in nature (after the diamond, of course). more The silicon carbide (SiC) power semiconductor was developed for use in automotive power control units, and theoretically has superior characteristics to other types, including one-tenth the electrical power loss and ten times the drive frequency. In addition, Toyota predicts the new chips will reduce the size of current automotive power control units by approximately 80 percent. These are momentous developments, especially when you consider the fact that Toyota has already achieved a 5 percent improvement in fuel efficiency using these chips. It plans to have the chips in test models by the end of the year, and aims to bring it into commercial production by 2020. As a Toyota dealer in Waukegan, we understand how important such developments are to our customers. They represent how committed the Toyota brand is to delivering an efficient line of vehicles that is affordable, easy on the environment, and outfitted with the latest innovations from the industry. If the Prius family is any indicator, this commitment is strong. And with the introduction of these new carbide semiconductor chips, the Toyota line only promises to get better.

As any Toyota dealership in Waukegan can tell you, the Toyota brand has long been a positive influence in the North American market. For years, the company has made efforts to keep production here in the states, create jobs, and contribute to the communities in which it operates. Now, the folks at Toyota recently announced that a new headquarters in North Dallas, Texas will become their base for North American operations. This is welcome news for a variety of reasons. First, it is a sign that the Toyota brand is prospering here in the United States. Second, this move undoubtedly means the creation of more jobs for American workers. more The move means that, over the course of the next three years, the three separate branches of Toyota operations in the United States (manufacturing, sales and marketing, and corporate operations) will relocate to a brand new campus in Plano, Texas. Nearly 4,000 employees will be affected by this move, in one way or another. Toyota also announced that it will expand the Toyota Technical Center (TTC) in Michigan as part of an increased investment in engineering capabilities and will support future growth in product development. As part of an ongoing commitment to the communities in which it operates, Toyota has also announced a $10 million philanthropic commitment to the communities in California and Kentucky, which will provide continued funding for local non-profits and community organizations in these states over a five-year period beginning in 2017. While we certainly love to report about new arrivals like the 2015 Toyota Camry, we are always pleased to report on the health and expansion of the Toyota nameplate. We know that this kind of expansion translates into an even better experience for our customers.

As a Toyota dealership, we pay close attention to the health and well being of the nameplate. Luckily, in recent years, it has been mostly good news, with April sales yet the latest example. Earlier this week, Toyota Motor Sales (TMS) posted April 2014 U.S. sales 199,660 units, a staggering 9 percent compared to April 2013 (based on a daily selling rate). And, little surprise, it was the Toyota Camry once again leading the way. more Indeed, the 2014 Toyota Camry enjoyed a 20 percent increase in April 2014 sales, thanks to sales of 38,000 units. The Corolla joined the Camry at the head of the pack, having posted a 20-percent increase in April sales thanks to nearly 30,000 units sold. Other highlights included: Toyota division trucks increase just under 16 percent RAV4 posts best-ever April, with 19,000 units sold FJ Cruiser sees 508 percent sales increase All-new Highlander sales increase 28 percent 4Runner sales increase 64 percent Toyota pickups sales increase more than 13 percent All-new Tundra sales increase 24 percent Tacoma posts sales of nearly 14,000 units, a 7-percent increase It is one thing to post solid sales increases for a given month out of the year; it is an entirely different thing to do it consistently, and often in the double-digits. This is the kind of consistent success that characterizes the Toyota nameplate in recent years, yet more evidence of this carmaker's strong commitment to quality automobiles. The proof is in the pudding, so make sure to head in to the dealership to see all that we have in stock. Until you get a chance to do so, our online inventory is always available, the place to see up-to-date information on all the stellar vehicles we currently have in stock.

If you are looking for used cars in Waukegan, there is plenty of good news for you in the recent Consumer Reports release. The editors at announced their list of the best used vehicles for the 2004-13 model years, a list that is dominated by Toyota vehicles. The list identifies vehicles for their reliability and low cost of ownership, characteristics that can be used to describe nearly every vehicle in the Toyota family. We are certainly excited to see so many Toyota vehicles named to this list, as it underscores the high value of our inventory of used Toyota cars. more In total, eleven vehicles on the list come from Toyota. This includes the top used sedans between $15,000 and $20,000 category, in which the 2011-2012 Toyota Camry and 2010-11 Toyota Camry Hybrid were recognized. In selecting these vehicles, CR cited superior fuel economy, impressive reliability and a comfortable overall ride. In the small cars less than $10,000 category, the Toyota Prius (2004-2007) and Toyota Matrix were recognized for their practical features and superb fuel economy. And don’t forget about SUVs—CR recognized the Toyota Highlander for its potent combination of performance, creature comforts and overall dependability.   As this report indicates, you can rest assured that you are making the decision when you purchase a Toyota vehicle, whether it is the pre-owned Toyota Prius or the 2014 Toyota Matrix. For years now, Toyota vehicles have been recognized for their reliability, an important characteristic that is underscored by the naming of eleven Toyota vehicles to this prestigious Consumer Reports list.

The year is in full swing, which means it is time for the 2014 Consumer Reports Top Picks. In this ongoing, widely respected survey, the best models in 10 different categories are identified. Top Picks must score highly in the test, have an average or better reliability rating, and perform adequately in crash or rollover tests conducted by the government or insurance industry. The results? The Toyota brand scored 72 and tied for fourth overall. And the 2014 Toyota Prius, for the 11th straight year, was named the Top Pick in the Green Car category. more As a Toyota dealership serving Kenosha, we know what the 2014 Toyota Prius brings to customers. We see a vehicle that combines affordability, practicality, and fuel efficiency in a way that few competitors can Starting with an EPA-estimated 44 mpg overall, which is fantastic fuel economy for any five-passenger, non-plug-in vehicle. Pair the great fuel economy with the roomy interior and hatchback versatility, and you have an all-around car that meets modern driving needs, day in and day out.   It is eleven years that the Toyota Prius has been available in our Toyota dealership in Waukegan, and eleven years that it has earned "Top Pick" status in the annual Top Picks. This kind of consistency represents the leadership role that Toyota automakers have taken in the automotive industry when it comes to fuel efficiency. Everyone looks to the Toyota brand and the ever-popular 2014 Toyota Prius for the latest and greatest innovations in fuel economy and practicality. There is no better testament than this year's model, which takes the same formula that has kept the Toyota Prius relevant for so long and pushes it a step further. Toyota customers expect these things and are never disappointed.

For years, Toyota has remained a cornerstone of the minivan category. The nameplate has continued to innovate, including the latest and greatest in terms of safety, technology and efficiency. The 2014 Toyota Sienna continues this tradition, including All-Wheel Drive, something that no other minivan sold in the United States can offer. Here are some more details. more All-Wheel Drive comes in handy for family drivers, especially when paired with a 3.5-liter V6 engine, good for 266 horsepower, which comes standard on every trim level. This means all-terrain control, and sufficient power to get the job done with a full load, whether it is merging, passing or climbing up the hill. What’s more, the 2014 Toyota Sienna gets an EPA-estimated 18 mpg city / 25 highway, which means fewer stops at the pump. Inside, the new Toyota Sienna features versatile seven- or eight-passenger configurations that allow you to fit a lot of people, a lot of things or an eclectic combination of both. No matter who is riding along, they will be entertained thanks to an available Entune® Multimedia and Split-Screen Rear Seat Entertainment System. If you’re looking for the 2014 Toyota Sienna in Chicago, you know that a minivan isn’t complete without strong safety features. The Sienna features the Toyota Star Safety System™, which includes Anti-lock Brakes (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA), enhanced Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Traction Control (TRAC), and Smart Stop Technology (SST). And this robust safety package is just part of what sets the Toyota Sienna apart from its competitors.

Since its introduction, the Toyota Prius family has led the industry in new directions in terms of efficiency and green technology. The market responded, with more and more drivers opting to spend more time enjoying a dependable, versatile automobile without having to think about the price tag on their next tank of gas. Evidently, the shift is global: Toyota Prius sales recently surpassed 3 million units worldwide. more Since its birth in 1997, the Toyota Prius has expanded significantly. It now includes the Toyota Prius, Prius c, Prius Plug-in and the 2013 Toyota Prius v. Across the board, the Prius family is comprised of fuel-sipping vehicles, each catered toward a specific driving experience. It's no wonder then that so many people around the world have found what they need with the Prius family. In as much as the Prius family has expanded to include four members, so too have its members evolved to meet the needs of the modern driver. The Prius v, for example, features a dynamic interior with flexible seating and cargo options, as well as integrated touchscreen navigation, so that it can handle all that a busy lifestyle might throw at it. Apparently, the trend isn't limited to Chicago: 2013 Toyota Prius v sightings are becoming more and more common all around the world. If you're in the market for that Prius that you've always wanted, be sure to check out our online inventory for all that we currently have in stock. You can see photos, vehicle-specific information, and even get in touch with one of our representatives to arrange for a test drive. We're confident that you'll soon see why the Prius family has sold over 3 million units worldwide.

Hello everyone! Fred Marks here continuing my monthly blog series dedicated to the latest news from Toyota. This month I'd like to welcome the spring season with a dynamic vehicle that is built to do it all. The 2013 Toyota Venza gives you all of the versatility of a mid-size crossover SUV, including ample storage options and modern technology, while still giving you the safety and efficiency that the Toyota nameplate is known for. I'm especially excited about this model and all that it offers our customers, especially given the change in season that will soon come to the city of Chicago. more The active lifestyle requires an all-around vehicle that can perform in a variety of situations. Whether it is a busy weekend, a trip out of town or dealing with inclement weather, the 2013 Toyota Venza is equipped with the features you need to keep up your ever-changing schedule. Key Features: Exterior refresh, including new headlights, grilles and chrome enhancements Standard 2.7-Liter 4-Cylinder engine good for 181 horsepower Available 3.5-Liter V6 engine good for 268 horsepower 70.2 cu. ft. of cargo space Hill Start Assist Control (HAC) Available All-wheel drive Star Safety System™, including Enhanced Vehicle Stability Control, Traction Control, Anti-lock Brake System, Electronic Brake-force Distribution, Brake Assist and Smart Stop Technology®. The spring is always an exciting time here at Classic Toyota. We always look forward to welcoming new customers and introducing them to our dynamic line of vehicles. As any new car dealer in Waukegan knows, spring brings with it a certain business and bustle that calls for a vehicle that can meet the challenge daily, whatever it may be. This year, that vehicle is the 2013 Toyota Venza.

Anyone with a driver’s license knows how dangerous the roads can sometimes be. As a driver, weather and road conditions, signage and the rules of the road give you enough to worry about as it is. Add to that the sometimes-hectic dynamics of all the other drivers on the road and you’ve got a situation that requires a high level of skill to be navigated safely. This is especially true in Waukegan. Dealerships like us then, are grateful for the Toyota Teen Safe Driving Program, now in its tenth year of furnishing young people with the skills they need to drive safely each time they take to the roads. more To date, Toyota Driving Expectations has benefited approximately 30,000 teens and parents thanks to annual events held in Torrance, California (May 4-5 at Toyota headquarters), Denver (May 18-19 at Bass Pro Shops) and San Antonio (June 8–9 at Toyota Texas Plant). The 2.5-hour program teaches young people defensive driving skills, crash avoidance and the perils of distracted driving. For the people that can’t make it to one of these three events, Toyota has also made driving resources available for free online at ToyotaTeenDriver.com. Additionally, the program has worked over the years to establish teen driving assemblies in high schools and dealerships across United States to reach as broad an audience as possible with the message of safe, smart driving. The Toyota line of vehicles, with top safety picks like the 2013 Toyota Sienna, prides itself on the principles of safe driving for the entire family. Naturally, we’re thrilled about the ongoing success of the Toyota Driving Expectations program. It represents our nameplate’s sustained commitment to driving safe no matter which vehicle you choose.

Sales numbers are in for March and it’s clear that Toyota is continuing its upward trend. With the help of key models like the 2013 Toyota Avalon, the Toyota Division saw March 2013 sales 182,152 units,, a 3.1 percent increase (in terms of daily selling rate basis) compared to the same month last year.  Quarter 1 numbers are in as well, and combined sales across all divisions made Toyota the number 1 retail nameplate in the country. more I’ve already mentioned the impressive performance of the all-new 2013 Toyota, which saw March sales of 6,982 units, a 109.9 percent increase compared to the same month last year. Yet the Avalon wasn’t alone; it joined a solid list of Toyota vehicles that are in high demand: Corolla: 31,423 units (11.1 percent improvement) RAV4: Sales of nearly 16,500 units Tacoma and Tundra: Improved 21.2 and 7.9 percent, respectively Sienna: 12,062 units (17.8 percent increase) 4Runner: 4,609 units, (13.4 percent increase) The theme for quarter 1, 2013 is simple: provide our customers with a dependable, safe and affordable line of vehicles that won’t disappoint no matter which model you drive off the lot. If you’re looking for crossover dynamism, we’ve got you covered. If you’re looking for some of the best fuel-efficiency on the market today, we’ve got that too. Whatever your driving needs in Kenosha, Certified Toyota dealerships like us will be happy to help you find the right vehicle. In the meantime, be sure to peruse our online inventory, which includes photos, vehicle specifications and pricing information. If so inspired, you can even make an appointment for a test drive. We look forward to hearing from you. Happy spring!

Even though the weather might be saying otherwise, spring is on its way and with it all of the activity synonymous with warmer weather. The house needs fixing, the yard needs updating the kids need a ride to practice. Thankfully, the 2013 Toyota Tacoma is well equipped to help you meet all of the business that accompanies the coming of spring. Here is an overview of the versatile truck that is ready to help you spring into action this year. more The reason that the Toyota Tacoma has remained a popular choice for so many years is its toughness: it's a truck built to handle even the most challenging road conditions, from unpredictable Midwestern weather to a cab full of passengers and a bed full of cargo. Yet the Tacoma is also equipped with all of the modern innovations that the contemporary driver has come to expect, from passenger comforts to new technology. Here is an overview of some of the features that you have to look forward to in the 2013 Toyota Tacoma. Vehicle Overview: Available 4.0L V6 engine good for 236 horsepower 4WDemand allows driver to switch between 2WD and 4WD depending on the situation Durable SofTex ® seat material and heated seats Steering wheel-mounted controls Auxiliary input for mobile devices In-mirror backup camera Star Safety System ™ including six standard airbags As challenging as the weather has been lately, we promise that spring will eventually come. And when it does, you can rest assured that the 2013 Toyota Tacoma will be there to help you through the transition. If you're in the market for a new truck in Waukegan, new car dealers like us will be happy to show you all that the Tacoma, as well as the rest of the Toyota line, have to offer you. We look forward to hearing from you!