The Toyota 4Runner has long been a top contender in the SUV class. The 4Runner’s quality design speaks for itself; sturdy build, a powerful engine and functional features lend to a quiet interior and comfortable drive. As your Gurnee dealership, we are proud to offer the 2012 4Runner SR5, a powerful SUV that gives drivers the ultimate adventure car. This sturdy SUV can take on any terrain in any conditions, giving you the peace of mind that comes with knowing you drive a Toyota. .

What’s most remarkable about the 4Runner is its profoundly smooth drive experience. Enhanced coil-spring front and rear suspension eats up bumps and obstacles so that passengers inside don’t have to. That way, the people inside the cabin can get comfortable in fabric-trimmed seats and take advantage of ample passenger space and a variety of convenient features.

2012 Toyota 4Runner SR5: Features & Specifications

• 4-liter V6 engine, 270 horsepower
• EPA-estimated 17 mpg city, 23  highway
• Auxiliary audio input
• DVD navigation system with integrated backup display
• Entune^™
• Star Safety System^™

The 4Runner is full of unique and innovative cargo space. The center-console storage box includes a coin organizer and holders for tissue and pens. There are ten cup holders placed throughout the cabin for everyone’s convenience. A sliding rear cargo deck with under-floor storage provides more than enough space for active, family lifestyles as well.

In Kenosha, Certified Toyota dealerships like Classic Toyota are thrilled to be able to offer customers the 2012 4Runner SR5. This SUV is great for active lifestyles with functional needs. The 4Runner complements an already solid line of convenient, fuel-efficient vehicles from Toyota. Come in and find yours today!

After a major redesign last year, the Toyota Sienna continues to prove that it’s the premier import minivan on the American car market today. Unique to the minivan segment, the 2012 Sienna is available with an efficient four-cylinder engine that achieves the affordable efficiency and sufficient performance that American families have come to expect. The four-cylinder option gives drivers a more affordable package, though the 2012 Sienna is also available with a V6 engine as well. Find out why, among new and used cars, Gurnee drivers choose Sienna.

Though the four-cylinder minivan is unique to the Toyota line, it is hardly the sole characteristic that makes the Sienna special. The 2012 Sienna gives drivers the choice between a four-cylinder and six-cylinder engine (both front-wheel drive), as well as 7-passenger or 8-passenger seating depending on their needs. The 3.5-liter V6 is good for 266 horsepower, 244 foot-pounds of torque and an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 18 mpg city / 25 mpg highway.

 The 2012 Toyota Sienna (4-cylinder)

• 2.7-liter engine
• 187 horsepower / 186 foot-pounds torque
• Six-speed automatic transmission
• EPA-estimated 19 mpg city / 24 mpg highway

The availability of a four-cylinder option is noteworthy for two reasons: it’s more affordable and therefore available to wider customer base. The money you save on the engine can also be redirected toward some of the new features and enhanced functionality that make the Sienna top-dog in the minivan category.

The Sienna makes stowing cargo and loading passengers easy with available dual power sliding side doors and a power lift gate with jam protection. Inside, three-zone climate control and an available premium entertainment system will keep the kids comfortable and placated during those long rides where driver concentration is a priority. And because safety is always at a premium on the road, the 2012 Sienna comes with the Star Safety System that includes Enhanced Vehicle Stability Control, ABS, Smart Stop technology, Driver and front, passenger, front seat-mounted side, driver’s knee and all-row side curtain airbags.

It’s safe, it’s efficient and affordable, and it’s the only minivan to be offered with a four-cylinder engine option. There are plenty of reasons why the Sienna is the top import minivan among new and used cars. Kenosha drivers can count on Classic Toyota to help them find the 2012 Sienna that is right for them and their families.

Hello everyone! It’s Fred Marks again, General Manager of Classic Toyota. I am excited to continue my monthly feature on our Toyota automotive blog.  This past month has been all about Toyota’s top sellers like the Prius, Corolla and Camry. The latter, a longtime cornerstone in our line, has been significantly updated for 2012 – I’m sure you’ve heard all about it. If not, Toyota has recently announced a robust marketing campaign that will make sure everyone knows about the 2012 Toyota Camry’s imminent release.

“It’s Ready. Are You?”

This is the slogan accompanying the unveiling of the 2012 Camry. The slogan will headline a wide-ranging marketing campaign breaking ground in five major marketing areas: broadcast, print and digital, social media, out of home and consumer experiences. The folks upstairs at Toyota Motor Co. recently released details about the scope of each of these exciting marketing strategies to all new car dealers. Waukegan, here is what you need to know:

• Social media: Camry Effect allows U.S. Camry drivers to connect friends, tweet their experiences and post progress on their Facebook pages. Now you can share what you love so much about your Camry
• Broadcast: Six TV spots during popular broadcasts like NBC’s Sunday Night Football, Two and a Half Men and the Toyota Halftime Report during next year’s Super Bowl.
• Consumer experiences: The Toyota Drive Center national ride and drive tour is one of 125 opportunities for people to test drive the 2012 Camry.
• Print: The 2012 Camry will appear in publications like TIME, Business Week, Oprah and People.
• Out of home: Outdoor and digital billboards will be prominent, including a spot in Times Square.

All of these advertising mediums are designed to build awareness about the key features, both ongoing and new, that will burnish the Camry’s position as America’s best-selling car. And I don’t say that last phrase frivolously: 90% of all Camrys sold in the past decade and a half are still on the road today. Here’s why:

Highlights and New Features: 2012 Toyota Camry

• 43 city mpg (LE)
• Premium HDD Navigation
• JBL GreenEdge Audio System
• Enhanced space with redesigned cup holders
• Available 3.5-liter V6 DOHC 24-valve VVTi-engine: 268 horsepower / 248 lb-ft of torque
• Paddle shifters
• Eco Drive display
• Available Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) and Backup camera
• Star Safety System
• Tire Pressure Monitor System

Given this list of impressive new innovations and features, it’s clear the success of the Camry in the U.S. will continue. Each year, Toyota and your Gurnee dealerships strive to keep the Toyota line at the forefront of efficient, practical and safe driving. The 2012 Camry is a testament to this philosophy.

Interbrand -  a keystone international brand consultancy – has recently issued its annual report of the top 100 global brands. Once again, Toyota has been voted the #1 global automotive brand, taking the #11 overall spot. Interbrand ranks brand-strength using three core criteria: financial performance, role of brand in purchase decision and likelihood that brand strength will contribute to future earnings for the company. Despite recent adversity, Toyota has continued to excel in these three categories.

A couple of key events in the past few years have challenged Toyota Motor Company (TMC) and its new car dealers. Waukegan knows that, in 2012, TMC responded swiftly and effectively to a series of recalls that threatened to tarnish the Toyota name. This year, the effects of global economic downturn on the car industry were intensified when a tsunami ravaged Japan, temporarily crippling much of Toyota’s production capacity. In both situations, however, Toyota persevered and emerged stronger than before. As a result, brand value has jumped 6%.

This is largely due to to Toyota’s revamped focus on safety, quality control and environmentally conscious technology. Since the recalls, Toyota and its engineers have personally responded to and resolved thousands of service calls and complaints from Toyota customers. New Toyota models are now equipped with a standard brake override system that will ignore erroneous input from drivers in emergency situations to ensure safety and prevent malfunction.

On the environmental front Toyota is continuously evolving the Prius line to keep it on the foremost frontier of environmentally friendly driving. The Prius family has expanded and will soon include a compact, family and plug-in versions. Additionally, Toyota researchers have recently made progress on a new yeast the will boost bio-fuel output and make ethanol a financially viable alternative to fossil fuels.

Though the recognition from Interbrand is important, customer loyalty and satisfaction remain the key metrics by which Toyota measures the success of its brand. Each year, TMC strives to bring its customers the best vehicles on the road today, burnishing its position as the #1 automotive brand on the globe. And as its source for new and used cars, Kenosha drivers can turn to Classic Toyota for all of their automotive needs.

The automotive industry’s environmental trendsetter is once again setting precedents. Recently, Toyota Motor Corporation (TMC) announced a series of developments in the fields of ethanol and automotive “greening” that promise to have a huge impact the industry. The headline here is a new strain of yeast that significantly boosts the yield of ethanol bio-fuels. This could be the breakthrough that will help bio-fuels finally permeate the automotive market as the cheaper, more efficient alternative to fossil fuels.

As your Gurnee dealership, we are always thrilled to hear about automotive innovations that focus on driving greener. This newly developed yeast from Toyota significantly increases the efficiency of xylose fermentation – a key process in procuring fuel from plant sources – while resisting common inhibitors to this key process. This breakthrough could play an integral role in developing a fuel alternative that is efficient, cost-efficient to produce and derived from a widely available resource (plant matter).

Such is the focus of Toyota’s scientists and engineers these days: environmental solutions for the automotive industry that can be realistically implemented without drastic costs to the end user. Though this breakthrough in bio-fuels is certainly the headline, it is not the only step Toyota has taken toward greener driving as of late.

Smart Green Parking and Smart Green Wall are two new innovations from Toyota designed to help people “green” their urban environments. Smart Green Parking uses a combination of recycled car parts and durable, low-maintenance plant material to create a cooler place to park a vehicle. Smart Green Wall combines wire, tension and adjusters for low-maintenance plant growth on the walls of urban buildings. When properly applied, this low-cost implementation can reduce indoor electric output up to 25% by eliminating some of the need for air conditioning.

These are not just pipe dreams from Toyota; Kenosha has already received 2014 sales forecasts and goals for the Smart Green Parking and Smart Green Wall implements. This, coupled with the potential permeation of more efficient and affordable bio-fuels, could mean significantly lower automobile emissions by the end of the decade. It is primetime for making our cars and roads greener; Toyota is proving its desire to lead the way by producing results.

A few days ago, Toyota revealed the brand-new Tacoma TRD T/X Baja Series Limited Edition Pickup in front of thousands of spectators at the 2011 Texas State Fair. The Fair was a fitting venue for a release that commemorates the many years of Toyota off-road racing tradition, hence the Limited Edition’s interesting nomenclature (in the name, “TRD” stands for Toyota Racing Development while T|X stands for Tacoma Extreme). The Baja Series Tacoma represents a fun, enhanced spin on the always rugged, always functional Toyota Tacoma line.

When it comes to the truck racing tradition at Baja, Toyota has always been a mainstay. The key events, both the Baja 500 and 1000, have seen Toyota trucks win titles year in and year out. As a result, Toyota has developed off-road packages for the Tacoma across the years, like the Tacoma Off-Road in 2012, so that consumers could have the opportunity to enjoy Toyota’s racing technology. This year, courtesy of your Gurnee dealership, the Tacoma T|X Baja Series takes this directive to a whole new level:

• Stand-out “Baja Racing” decals on both sides
• 4.0-liter V6 engine available in both 6-speed manual and 5-speed automatic transmission options
• Active Traction Control (A-TRAC)
• Hill-Start Assist Control (HAC)
• Downhill Assist Control (DAC)
• BF Goodrich T/A KO tires
• TRD Cat-back Exhaust
• Elevated front end
• Bilstein race shocks with TRD coil springs

Though many details are still forthcoming, the ones we have are eye-opening and means for eager anticipation. Like the rest of the Toyota line, the Tacoma will receive exterior updates including restyled bumpers, front grill and hood. Inside, a more intuitive center console is complemented by hip new panels and guages that give the Tacoma a race-inspired feel. For the true off-road drivers, water resistant fabric will keep you dry inside no matter how tough the terrain.

The Baja is definitely going to turn heads when it is finally released early next year. Yet, it occurs to me that those of us with the privilege of owning one might not be seen driving it too often; not because we don’t want to be seen, but because we’ll be too busy carving it up in back country mud somewhere. As your source of new and used cars, Round Lake drivers like you can always turn to us for the latest updates like the arrival of the Tacoma TRD T/X Baja Series.

Hello everyone! It’s Fred Marks again, General Manager of your Gurnee dealership, Classic Toyota. I am excited to continue my monthly feature on our Toyota automotive blog. There has been quite a bit going on at Toyota this month including some additions to the Prius line, a brand new lithium battery pack and the introduction of the 2012 Toyota Camry. It seems that each month Toyota vehicles get more fuel-efficient, more innovative and safer to drive. After a strong September, Toyota’s solid position in the U.S. car market has never been more apparent.

Just this month Toyota began production on the 2012 Toyota Camry in Lafayette, Indiana. This first batch will pave the way for 90,000 more units over the next twelve months, a strong indicator that Toyota’s production capacity has returned to full form after the Tsunami in Japan earlier this year. Production will soon expand to include a 2012 Camry Hybrid model with which Toyota looks to burnish its super-efficient line of automobiles.

No vehicle is more indicative of Toyota’s recent success in the hybrid category than the Prius. This year, the next-generation Prius will be accompanied by a full line of dynamic sister models. Alongside the already available 3rd-Gen Prius (51 mpg city/48 highway) and Prius Plug-in Hybrid (87 mpge/47 mpg in hybrid mode), the all new Prius V wagon will come available later this year preceding the release of the Prius C (compact) during the first half of 2013. These new additions are exciting and give us the ability to provide a Prius for each customer’s driving needs.

What we’re most excited about at Classic Toyota are the ways the Prius line helps you save money – on the purchase, at the pump and over time. This might come in the form of a new 4.4 lithium battery pack that makes customers eligible for a $2,500 federal tax credit; it could also come from the money you save driving a car with outstanding fuel economy (even though the 87 mpg you get on battery  in the Plug-in doesn’t last forever, its 49 mpg on gas is still better than the Volt). In terms of saving money on maintenance, the Prius (and the Camry, for that matter) is known for its high value and superior longevity.

 Yes: September was a fast-moving month laden with noteworthy developments. And we’re only getting warmed up: the 2012 Camry is just now hitting the streets and the Prius line is once again headed toward trendsetting horizons. We’re proud to be able to offer you such a strong line of vehicles – we think you’ll like what you see.

Given Toyota’s role in initiating and sustaining the world’s push toward more fuel efficient driving, it’s fitting that the highly-anticipated Prius Plug-in Hybrid Vehicle (PHV) is going to revolutionize hybrid driving – again. Based on initial details, test drives and reviews it’s clear that the PHV will retake top spot with new innovations like a smaller battery pack, better range and better overall hybrid fuel economy than its competitors. At your Gurnee dealership, perhaps the most attractive thing to hybrid drivers will be a significantly shorter charging time, another indicator that Toyota is in sync with the trends and demands of the American car market.

The PHV will feature a hybrid system that will travel up to 15 miles on battery alone before switching to gasoline-powered Hybrid Synergy Drive. Electric Vehicle mode, though not the primary driving mode, will boast a fuel economy of 89 miles per gallon. When in  Hybrid Synergy Drive mode the PHV will get 49 mpg – still better than the Chevy Volt’s average fuel economy. The lithium battery pack will complete a full charge in under three hours; and charging time is even better with the Leviton Level II charger installed, the release of which was just announced by Toyota.

Though the primary driving mode of the PHV utilizes its hybrid functionality, the 4.4 lithium battery pack does qualify PHV owners for a $2500 federal tax credit as incentive for purchasing such a fuel efficient vehicle. With this credit and obvious savings on fuel over time, the PHV becomes very affordable when compared to other vehicles in the electric vehicle and hybrid categories.

The PHV will arrive accompanied by a series of new Toyota vehicles imbued with hybrid technology. In Chicago, 2012 Toyota Camry drivers and industry insiders are buzzing about the 2012 Camry Hybrid; fuel economy, style and performance in this model promise to be groundbreaking. Additionally, the Prius V and Highlander Hybrid are arriving on the scene, rounding out Toyota’s impressive line of fuel efficient vehicles. With all of these options, all you have to do is come in to Classic Toyota and let us help you find the right hybrid to suit your needs.

Despite some recent hurdles, the Toyota Camry remains top-seller in the United States of America. This integral Toyota model has been around for years, offering drivers an unmatched combination of form, functionality and efficiency. Now, Toyota is reminding Americans of Camry quality with a fresh advertising campaign and exciting updates to the new 2012 Camry line. As it stands, things continue to look up for Toyota and its flagship automobile.

Given the scope of the ad-campaign for the 2012 Toyota Camry, Chicago won’t be surprised by the way in which the first one was introduced: by way of live video feed, viewers at launch parties in Los Angeles, New York and Detroit watched as the first 2012 Camry was driven off of an assembly lines in a Toyota plant in Kentucky.

Moments like these make one think of all that has happened since the first Camry rolled off the production lines in 1983, almost thirty years ago. Since then, the Camry has sold over 15 million units worldwide, and the Camry has been America’s best-selling car for nine years running and 13 of the past 14 years.

2012 Camry: Specs & Features:

• DOHC 3.5-liter V6
• 268 horsepower
•  21 mpg city/30 mpg highway (best in V6 midsize sedan category)
• Upgraded exterior styling (front grill, bumper and body contours)
• More interior space for passengers and cargo
• Intuititive center console
• 60/40 split folding rear seatback
• Bluetooth wireless connectivity
• USB port (standard)
• Toyota Entune multimedia system
• Smoother, quieter ride
• Improved handling and driveability

In Chicago, 2012 Toyota Camry models are already available at Classic Toyota, your source for new and used Toyota vehicles. We are impressed by this year’s model and excited to be able to offer it to our customers. Come in a check one out today!

Lately, Toyota has been instrumental in introducing modern updates to classic vehicles types: The Sienna is now widely accepted as the rebirth of the minivan, and the Toyota Venza is making the words sport and utility common station-wagon vernacular again. In Chicago, 2012 Toyota Camry drivers will be happy to know that this brand new crossover borrows heavily from the Camry. The Venza is full of innovation and underrated style make it an excellent choice for drivers of all kind, from family-man to weekend adventurer.

Perhaps the first metric you should use when gauging a contemporary wagon is exterior appeal: If you have to look away right away in horror, you won’t even be interested in seeing the spacious interior. Luckily, the Venza’s crossover classification lends well to its stylish exterior and pleasing aesthetic. Its elongated body and elevated hatchback allude to the functionality and cargo space within.

With room for 5, the Venza is a popular choice among families and carpools. Cargo volume behind the front (70.1 cu. ft.) and rear (30.1 cu. ft.) seats, coupled with the spacious rear cargo area, is ample. In terms of functionality, technology and creature comforts, the interior includes the following:

• CD player with MP3/WMA playback capability
• Auxiliary audio jack, USB port with iPod^® connectivity
• 3.5-inch Multi-Information Display: outside temperature, clock, average fuel economy, distance to empty, average speed, and air conditioning settings
• Cruise control
• Carbon fiber-style interior trim
• In-key remote keyless entry system
• Center console with sliding cover and armrest, dual storage compartment, dual illuminated cup holders
• Two grocery bag hooks

Under the Venza’s hood you’ll find either the 2.7-L V4 or 3.5-L V6, depending which Venza model you opt for. Because Toyota borrowed heavily from the Camry design, it is no surprise that the Venza offers fuel economy akin to the 2012 Toyota Camry; Chicago drivers know that this means affordable and efficient driving every day. All models, regardless of engine, have achieved Ultra Low Emission Vehivle II (ULEV II) status.

The superior form, functionality and style of the Venza speak for themselves – this is a hip crossover wagon that is quickly gaining popularity in the United States. Come into Classic Toyota and test drive one today!