Hello everyone! It’s Fred Marks again, General Manager of Classic Toyota, continuing my monthly feature on our Toyota blog. This time around we’re going to be taking a look at some recent announcements from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). With new 2011 model year lineups on the way, the NHTSA has already announced which vehicles will be among those rated under the safety agency’s brand new 5-star safety ratings program. Not surprisingly, several Toyota models from your Gurnee dealership made the cut – find out which ones after the jump!

According to the NHTSA, the new form of safety testing will not be compatible with previous year’s. While this may lead to some difficulty in immediate comparisons, in the long-run the safety ratings will make vehicle-to-vehicle comparisons much easier for the average customer.

Of the 55 vehicles being rated under this new model of testing, 10 are Toyota models, including the Toyota RAV4, Prius, Corolla, and Camry. These Toyota cars will be among the first tested under the new system. According to NHTSA Secretary Ray LaHood, the new standards make for a “more rigorous 5-star ratings program.” Likewise, LaHood says, “This new testing program significantly raises the safety bar for all vehicle manufacturers and will provide consumers with a great deal more safety information about the cars and trucks they want to buy.”

If you feel like the NHTSA sounds vaguely familiar, it may be because their 5-star crash testing program has been the industry standard for safety for consumers. The new change is a risky move, changing what consumers have come to know and trust, but the NHTSA feels strongly that their new ratings will give an even more detailed and accurate understanding of a vehicle’s safety.

At Classic Toyota, we are certainly in support of easier and more accessible understanding of safety. As shoppers looking for used cars, Libertyville Toyotas, and great service have come to know, Classic Toyota puts safety first. Go ahead and take a look at the list of included Toyota models below, and please feel free to contact Classic Toyota about any Toyota questions you may have.

List: http://www.leftlanenews.com/nhtsa-releases-new-crash-test-details.html

Ah, the Toyota Avalon.  It’s a solid choice from Toyota and it gets the job done.  According to Toyota’s facts and figures, the average age of someone who drives an Avalon is 64.  That’s not to say that you have to be this age to own one, but the design is catered to a more conservative driver, one who craves a comfortable sedan versus one of the used cars Kenosha drivers may choose.  Let’s take a look at what the 2011 model will get you.

Comfort!  You’ll certainly find this if you purchase a 2011 Avalon.  The seats have thick padding and if you’re riding in the backseat, those will even recline a bit for you.  Can you say nap?  There is also a lot of legroom and the floor of the car has quality carpeting, should you opt to take your shoes off, as most of us will during a longer road trip.

The 2011 Avalon can be purchased at your Gurnee dealership in several different trims:  the XLS, Basic, and Limited.  The XLS and Basic run you around $35K and the Limited is priced around $38K.  The base Avalon and Limited models have wide angle fog lamps, LED lamps, sliding moonroof, and high solar energy absorbing glass that come standard.  If you want to up the ante, the Limited comes with a nice stereo system with a six disc CD changer, an MP3 player, XM radio, Bluetooth connectivity, iPod docking station, hands free phone capability, and more.  Features that will for sure make your drive go by quickly!

Most importantly, safety features galore can be found across the board in the 2011 Avalon models.  Toyota’s Star Safety System now comes standard and it includes Vehicle Stability Control, Brake Assist, Traction Control, ABS System, and Electronic Brake-force distribution.  You’ll also find an anti theft system, plenty of front and side impact airbags, and much more. Ensuring a safe driver and passengers is of the utmost importance at Toyota.

Head to Classic Toyota for your used cars, Kenosha drivers. Visit your Toyota dealership today and test drive the Avalon.  If you crave comfort, a smooth ride, and a classy interior and exterior design, the Avalon might be the perfect car for you!

Good news for Toyota.  Early results from a recent inquiry by the U.S Department of Transportation represent a positive step towards restoring Toyota’s enduring reputation as a provider of used cars Kenosha consumers can trust.  The Wall Street Journal recently named industry insiders in a report that claims human error may have been to blame for the majority of sudden-acceleration accidents involving Toyota vehicles.

The Journal report couldn’t come at a better time for Toyota Motor Corp., which is busy fielding numerous lawsuits by Toyota plaintiffs involved in unintended-acceleration related accidents.  The onslaught of litigation has led to a series of recalls, including the 2010 Toyota Prius due to questions about its electronic throttle system.  Industry insiders told the Wall Street Journal that preliminary findings by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration indicate that in many cases drivers experienced sudden-acceleration because they mistakenly slammed on the gas pedal instead of the brakes.

As part of an ongoing federal investigation, the NHTSA has also been responding to cases in which Toyota drivers allege that their brakes failed after an undesired acceleration.  After the provision of reading devices by Toyota, the NHTSA has been reviewing data recorders from dozens of Toyota vehicles involved in such incidents.  According to the Journal, initial data indicates that at the time of most of these crashes the breaks were not engaged and the engine throttles were open.  Contrary to the plaintiffs’ claims, it appears the drivers either accidentally stepped on the gas or had not engaged the breaks in time to prevent the accident.

Toyota has persistently denied that failures in their computer systems are to blame for accidents related to sudden acceleration.  They cite their own internal investigation – separate from the NHTSA’s – which coincides with the early findings of the government’s current investigation.

This is welcome news for the 2010 Prius, one of several Toyota models recalled due to electronic issues with its anti-lock braking systems.  Though the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has yet to release a final report on the issue, these revelations certainly signify a positive step towards restoring the Prius’ reputation as a Toyota Kenosha drivers can rely on.

Toyota has revamped a few of their models to entice car drivers to take a new look at these vehicles. The automaker hopes to bring in both new and current Toyota customers to see these cars for what they really are, attractive, safe and efficient. A local Toyota Gurnee dealership agrees Toyota has made a wise move in changing up the look of a few of their models to bring car buyers back for a second look. In the current economic climate, car buyers need this fresh take on a name they know to be dependable.

The Toyota Avalon is a full size luxury sedan that has been on the market since 1994. Toyota has decided to improve on the Avalon for the 2011 model year by turning it into a modern, stylish luxury automobile. The Avalon has undergone a full on makeover both inside and out. This stunning vehicle now boasts a 3.5 liter V6 engine working on a six speed automatic transmission capable of 268 horsepower. The 2011 Avalon has new LED taillights as well as a ton of internal technology including Bluetooth.

While the minivan might seem antiquated to some, it is still the top choice of many and Toyota hopes to bring the trend back by updating the 2011 Sienna. Minivans allow for optimal space and comfort and the Sienna is no exception. To keep up with the market the 2011 Sienna comes with a range of engines from a 2.7 liter, 4 cylinder, 187 horsepower, to a 3.5 liter V6 with 266 horsepower. The exterior has been updated as well to make the Sienna more attractive and current. Car buyers can decide between five levels of trim as well as front or all wheel drive. Sienna used cars Kenosha dealers are eager and excited for the updated model to hit the market and stimulate Sienna popularity.

These two updated models are just a small piece of what Toyota has in store for 2011. Both these vehicles are extremely affordable for everything they offer. The 2011 Avalon is priced right around $32,245 while the Sienna sits at $24,260. Visit your local Gurnee dealership to find out more about these two automobiles or any other Toyota vehicle.

People sometimes think buying a used car is a bad thing.   Many used or “preowned” cars found on the lots of your Toyota Kenosha dealership are in great condition, don’t have a ton of miles on them, and come at a great price.  But, like most things in life, some used models are great, and some, well, not worth your time and money! 

A recent article I found on our ever so useful world wide web compiled a list of the best and worst used cars.  The list was based on J.D. Power and Associates Vehicle Dependability Study and reviews by owners received by US News and World Report.  The list covers vehicles manufactured mainly for the 2007 car year, and some before or after that date.  But, all the cars listed are from the same generation time frame.

Lucky for your used cars Libertyville dealer, one Toyota model made the list of one of the best used car options- the Toyota Prius.  Let’s check out some of the features that make this a good choice when test driving a potential purchase.  This model made it’s debut in the auto world in 2001 and has amazing fuel economy.  It is reported that the highway mpg is around 41 gallons, but some drivers have found it’s even better than that!

Overall, this car has received many accolades not only for fuel economy, but for it’s roomy interior, performance, and styling, just to name a few.  It’s a four door model than can comfortably fit 5 passengers.  A 2007 Prius, for example, gives passengers more elbow room than in the original model.  There is also ample cargo space for a car of this size.  A friend who owns one was able to easily stow her stroller, a few suitcases and infant eating chair in the back on a trip to grandma’s house!

Moreover, the Prius accelerates and handles well.  You get a continuously variable transmission that makes for a nice ride.  The base engine is a 1.5 liter, I-4 that provides 76 HP.   Certainly not a sports car by any means, but after all, you’re not opting for a Prius for that reason.  You would choose one because it’s an overall great ride at a comfortable price, plus it’s easier on the environment!

Come and check one out at your Toyota Kenosha dealership today.

Hello everyone! It’s Fred Marks again, General Manager of Classic Toyota, continuing my monthly feature on our Toyota blog. Today I’m happy to announce that Toyota has been given a completely clean bill of health! Recently, U.S. regulators have not been able to find any electronic defects in Toyota Motor Corp vehicles. Dealerships of Waukegan used cars, as well as the rest of Toyota Motor Corp., are thrilled about this news since our company has been even more dedicated to ensuring the safety on all Toyota vehicles since the recall.

Some members of Congress believe that it was in fact the engine electronics that led to our major recall program. If you’re not aware, we had to recall over 8 million vehicles all around the world due to sudden acceleration problems and gas pedal issues. However, since then, Toyota, as well as government regulators, will be putting in more research towards the study of electronics to help advance vehicle technology. The goal, of course, is to make sure such problems never happen again. Toyota has always been committed to customer satisfaction and care, but our number one priority is safety.

Since the recall, Toyota automobiles have undergone more testing in addition to other evaluations and critiques. Dan Smith of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration says on this matter, “We have not actually been able to find a defect of electronic-throttle-control systems”.

This confirms what we have been saying since the beginning of our brand: Toyota offers the best and safest vehicles available. We are in fact pleased that more electronic studies are being conducted since we are extremely committed to safety and always interested in learning more ways to make Toyota vehicles safer for all of you.

At your local Toyota dealership, we offer the highest quality new and used cars. Waukegan, Libertyville and Kenosha drivers or interested Toyota customers should contact (877) 216-7474, or stop by the Classic Toyota dealership. I’ll be in touch again soon. Meanwhile, read the other Classic Toyota blog posts for more Toyota news and information. We hope to see you soon!

The world’s largest automaker, Toyota Motor Corporation, recently purchased a $50 million stake in Tesla Motors. The automotive companies continue to invest in electronic and environmentally friendly features and will team with Tesla Motors who are the only automaker to build and sell highway capable EV vehicles.

Toyota is not the only player making purchases, the counterpart in their business deal Tesla bought a closed Toyota joint-venture plant in California with the intention of building Model S among other vehicles.

Toyota has been under recent pressure because of competitors Nissan and General Motors investments in the United States electronic car segments.

Recent U.S. market regulations have influenced automotive companies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and increase fuel efficiency. Toyota, whose cars are sold at Waukegan used car dealers, is responding responsibly to these regulations and thus far have gone with the grain, which has helped assuage the negative image following their massive recalls.

Both parties will likely benefit from these deals, Toyota will dodge political turmoil by not shutting down the Nummi plant which would result in the termination of hundreds of jobs. Instead Toyota will be offering an electric vehicle with a low investment cost.

Also in on the action is Daimler AG, the world’s second largest luxury vehicle producer who invested in Tesla about a year ago. Their $50 million investment will ensure a supply of battery packs for a fleet of electronic Smart minicars. Although their intial investment was reduced by $2.5 million the partnership still continues.

The revival of the Nummi plant will create roughly 1,000 jobs according to California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger. Nummi has been out of commission since April and now close to 90 percent of former workers have been rehired. In addition, they plan on hiring fifty new employers each month.

Before the plant closed there were close to 5,000 workers, all which were represented by the United Auto Workers union.

President Barack Obama has pushed for an increase in investment in electronic car technology and has the intention of getting 1 million plug-in hybrids and electric cars on U.S. roads by 2015.

Toyotas sold at your local used cars Libertyville location will soon begin to look a little more green then in the past.

Unless you know someone who knows someone, chances are you will just have to wait around like all the rest of the plebeians to get a taste of the Toyota Prius plug-in set to go on sale in 2012.  While everyone takes a minute to manically scroll through their PDAs (didn’t that Toyota Kenosha dealer say he’d owe you a major if you bought that ’98 Avalon from him?), let it be known you’re really gonna need to know a guy because Toyota Motor Sales has announced they will be loaning only 150 of the Prius plug-in prototypes to various organizations around the country.

The plug-in Prius will still use gasoline, but it arrives with a stronger lithium-ion battery pack that can be recharged in the living room or at the office.  On a full charge, the plug-in Prius is supposed to be able to run 13 miles and it should be able to reach highway speeds of up to 60 mph in the electric-only mode.  The increased all-electric cruising range and its top speeds and, uh, it being a plug-in, distinguish it from the conventional hybrid.  For longer travel, the Prius will revert to standard hybrid mode, so this really is the best of both worlds.  Did you ever hear back from that Toyota Kenosha dealer?

The purpose of TMS’s charity, beyond a nice marketing boost, of course, is for these 150 vehicles to serve as a mass test drive.  You know, so the plug-in upon official release doesn’t immediately end up in a lot full of used cars in Waukegan.  All of these prototypes Toyota sends out will be equipped with data retrieval systems that will measure and watch the activities critical to the functioning of the vehicle, such as how often it is charged, where it is charged, and its all EV driving range.  So, perhaps letting others have first run at it is in fact good news if you don’t see yourself as the guinea pig type, but Toyota did recently present the Silicon Valley Leadership Group with the first three vehicles and those guys (and gals) are smart.  Chances are probably pretty good you won’t be finding the Prius plug-in in a Waukegan used cars lot anytime in the near or distant future.

Wrigley Field means a variety of things to different people.  To veracious Cubs fans it stands for their undying belief in their beloved team, good times with good friends, and refreshing summer ale.  To people who are lucky enough to have it part of their community, it is a true and beautiful landmark.

The ballpark was built in 1914 and was originally known as Weeghman Park.  It is the second oldest ballpark in major league baseball behind Fenway Park in Boston, which was built in 1912.   No wonder community members are so drawn to protecting and preserving this historical ballpark.

Toyota will soon have a hand in helping to preserve and protect Wrigley Field thanks to a sign permit that has been approved on May 25^th.  However, this approval did not come easily.  It was with the support of Alderman Tom Tunney that the sign became possible.  At a prior buildings committee hearing, Tunney’s view on installing the Toyota sign was not viewed in a positive light as he stated it would not be “in keeping with the character of the neighborhood or the spirit of the landmarks”.  Even though there is both current community support and objection, in the big picture, the Toyota sign is a blessing in disguise for the historically famous ballpark.  It may even remind you of the super friendly salesman from the Gurnee Toyota Dealership that sold you your recent eco-friendly Prius.

The 360 square-foot sign will not block any of the views from the rooftop clubs in the outfield location.  While it may give props to the automaker and dealerships, such as Toyota Kenosha, the main reason for its placement is to bring in much needed revenue.  The sign may create as much as $2.5 million annually to help preserve and maintain Wrigley Field.  This should make all Cubs fans smile, as it will help prevent hikes in ticket prices or food items, allowing them to continue to support their team without having to pay more.

The approval does come with a catch, and that is the Cubs cannot install any additional outfield signs that can rise above the existing bleachers until June 2014.  What does this mean for Wrigley Field at this moment?  Well, a red illuminated Toyota sign will be placed about 40 feet above the left field bleachers.  If the entire City council approves the actual Toyota sign coming up on June 9^th, then a sign most likely will be installed and visible to all within days after the city’s okay.

With the recent woes some Toyota drivers have experienced in recent months, one might think traffic would be way down at your Classic Toyota dealership!  This is definitely not the case, based on sales numbers for May 2010.  Let’s see what the company is reporting.

Comparing May 2010 with May ’09 sales, the amount of cars sold was up 6.7 %.   The top Toyota Kenosha model to be sold was the Camry and Camry Hybrid combining for 29,295 units.  Following that model was the Corolla, the gas-electric Prius, and finally the Avalon.  This was the breakdown for the Toyota Passenger Division.

For the light trucks part of Toyota, the RAV4 Compact SUV led the way with 54,133 going to the hands of excited drivers.  After that, you get combined Highlander and Highlander Hybrid sales of 6,691 units.  The Tundra full-size truck and the Tundra mid-size also did very sell.  Some of these were likely sold at your used car Waukegan Toyota store!  The Sienna mini-van saw sales up 49% versus May 2009!

Toyota is very committed to making sure all of their “problematic” vehicles were fixed right so loyal customers will continue to come back for more!  They are putting safety, reliability, and service and quality at the top of their list of importance.  They want to continue to be at the top of brand loyalty lists for many years to come!

If you head out to Classic Toyota right now, what might you find in stock?  There are many new and used car Waukegan models to check out.  For example, the models named in this article as being top sellers can be found.  They come with great amenities and an affordable sticker price.

If you have never driven a Toyota Kenosha model before, now is your chance.  See why Toyota is one of the top brands in the business!