Summer is just getting started and if you’re planning to take a few road trips, then you’ll need a reliable ride for you and your family.

That’s where the 2016 Toyota Sienna (or better known as: The Original Swagger Wagon) comes to the rescue!

What are you waiting for? This Minivan is fun for both kids and adults, so hop in and let’s get you started on a new adventure.

No matter where you sit in the Sienna, you can expect to feel like a VIP, especially if you’re the one behind the wheel. With a wraparound dashboard design, all the controls are a simple touch away, so you’ll stay comfortable and entertained. Not to mention, you’ll have room for everyone, as the Sienna can seat up to eight passengers. The more the merrier!

Enjoy a smarter drive with the ability to make hands-free phone calls and stream music from your compatible phone or portable device using Bluetooth^® wireless technology. An available 7-in. touch-screen display makes it easy to turn up your favorite music and find your desired destination with the integrated navigation features. With three climate control zones, you can expect that everyone will be comfortable – no matter how long the ride.

When it comes to packing the Sienna for your trip, the possibilities are endless. For example, you can adjust cargo volume from a generous 39 cubic feet behind the third row to a whopping 150 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded. If your hands are full, simply reach for the key fob to open the available power rear liftgate. It can open and close in seconds to make everything simple and quick.

The Sienna has the most standard airbags in its class to keep all passengers safe, giving you more peace of mind. Also, the available Pre-Collision System employs radar to help determine if a frontal collision is imminent and will automatically apply the brakes and retract the front seatbelts to help reduce the effects of a collision.

Even with all of that, we’ve barely scratched the surface of the amazing features included with the 2016 Sienna. Check out our Sienna inventory and give us a call for more details. We’d be happy to take you on a test drive before you head out on your next big adventure.

Watch our summer fun Sienna video!

Looking forward to a long weekend? Even if you’re stuck working the holiday, you have to make it out to see some fireworks this year!

We found some of the best places in the Chicagoland area to catch a show so, pack up the Toyota and grab your family, friends, and a comfy blanket to celebrate.

Navy Pier

July 4th

600 E. Grand Avenue, Navy Pier

This is THE destination in Chicago for a great fireworks show. Even more impressive, the fireworks are synchronized to music on Lake Michigan. View the show from the dock or aboard an evening cruise. Make sure you plan accordingly because Navy Pier is expected to reach full capacity.

Glen Ellyn

July 4th

Downtown Glen Ellyn

Start the day at noon with a parade celebrating red, white and blue in downtown Glen Ellyn. Take the festivities to Lake Ellyn Park from 1-4pm to enjoy more fun including moonwalks, inflatable obstacle courses, carnival games, face painting and more! Finish the night at Lake Ellyn to watch the fireworks light up the skyline at dusk.

Rosemont

July 3rd

5501 Park Place Rosemont, IL 60018

Rock out this Independence Day at Rosemont’s Rockin’ in the Park summer concert series! Neil Diamond tribute act Denny Diamond will take the stage on Independence Day weekend and will finish the show with some spectacular fireworks.

Naperville

July 1-4th

724 South West Street Naperville, IL, 60540 | Knoch Park

Come to Naperville’s annual Ribfest this weekend. There will be lots of music, (including Sheryl Crow and more bands to be announced) activities, tons of events with ribs and of course, a fireworks show as a perfect end to the night. Gates open at noon each day and the park shuts down at 10p.m. daily. 

Bolingbrook

July 4th

2001 Rodeo Drive, Bolingbrook Golf Course Bolingbrook, IL, 60490

Grab you lawn chair or blanket and make yourself comfortable on the Bolingbrook Golf Course for a free show! Enjoy lots of live music, food and more! There will also be free shuttle buses from the event parking.

Skipping the show? You’re always welcome at Continental Toyota. Especially for our Red White and Blue Sales Event – the biggest sales event of the summer! Check out our deals and swing by this weekend.

Our store will be closed in observance of Independence Day (7/4).

Ready to put your running skills to the test?

Continental Toyota is a sponsor of the 13^th Annual Waterfall Glen XTREME 10 race from the Community Nurse Health Center on Saturday July 9, 2016 at Argonne Family Park in Darien, IL.

This scenic and challenging race is far from your average road race. You’ll endure 10 miles of hills, trails, guts and glory. Talk about a great workout – and for a good cause!

All proceeds from the race will benefit Community Nurse Health Center and their mission to provide quality medical and dental healthcare to the residents of the western suburbs of Chicago with limited means and access to care.

You can register online for the race at www.xtreme10race.com. Registration is limited for the first 1,000 runners. Make sure to register soon and reserve your spot! Plus, there’s a free youth race for all ages.

The 10-mile race is set to begin at 8am with the post race party at 9:30am, the award ceremony at 10am and the youth race at 10:30am. Prizes include gender specific Green Layer shirts for all runners, finisher medals for all 10-mile runner and trophies for the 10-mile male/female top three finishers.

You can pick up a packet in Chicago and suburban locations. For more details and specific locations, go to www.xtreme10race.com, email info@communitynurse.org or call (708) 352-0081 for questions.

See you at Argonne Family Park—1 mile south of I-55 on Cass Avenue! However, you probably won’t catch us running unless we can drive the course in a Toyota ;).

Have fun!

Last Thursday, Continental Toyota opened its doors to the community to host a Pinewood Derby Fundraiser for the Boy Scouts of America.

This event was a first for the Toyota dealership, with 40 participants signed up to race. Prior to the event, participants could pick up their car kits and let their creativity do the rest for a chance to win one of the big prizes. Rental cars were also available to race for those who did not pick up a car kit.

In addition to the racing, there was a silent auction, a Taco Chapultepec food truck with tacos, drinks in the delivery room and a DJ hosting the show, all on the showroom floor. Tickets were available for purchase so guests could enjoy food and drinks.

After multiple races, Leena Abdeliqader took first place and won an iPod Nano, along with a (fake) check for $10,000. Service Manager John Ficaro picked up second place, winning a $100 gift card to Best Buy and Chris Richrath was the third place winner and receive a $50 gift card.

Continental Toyota was presented with a plaque of Appreciation by Paul Szymczak and Manny Carrera of the Boy Scouts of America. After a successful event, Dealer Principal Cheryl Nelson said she has plans to host it again next year.

“I honor the Boy Scouts of America for the discipline they teach our young ones.” Nelson said. “They help align goals and teach how to attain the goal. What a great lesson in life. Hopefully next year we can open it up to the families of scouts and make it even bigger!”

Ready to take your driving adventure to a place you haven’t gone before? Maybe even off-roading?

The 2016 Toyota 4Runner is one of the last SUVs to be built with a body-on-frame construction. In fact, even after many miles of treacherous and harsh trails, 90 percent of 4Runners sold in the last ten years are still on the road today.

The 4Runner’s standard 4.0-liter V6 engine pumps out 270 horsepower and 278 lb.-ft of torque. It has the ability to tow up to 5,000 lbs., which means nothing has to be left behind on your trip.

And when the unexpected happens out on the open road, you’ll be prepared thanks to the full-sized spare that comes standard on all 4Runner models.

In addition to the unique front-end design, the 4Runner Limited comes with refined accents like chrome door handles and a chrome-accented front grille that makes it stand out from the rest. The projector-beam headlights give off a stronger and higher-focused beam than regular headlights and with the incorporation of Daytime Running Lights (DRL) you won’t be missed. Move over to the back to see LED taillights that not only increase visibility, but also provide a distinctive look that will attract all the right attention.

Go ahead and take a seat inside.

You’ll notice that you’re surrounded by nothing but quality and high-end technology, like the 6.1-in. high-resolution touch-screen display which comes standard on all models. And while it’s tough on the outside, the interior is filled with premium materials like perforated leather to keep you comfortable at all times. Not to mention, it’s equipped with all of the latest technology like Integrated Navigation, Bluetooth^®, a JBL^® audio system and more.

The back can accommodate up to 88 cubic feet of cargo and up to seven passengers with the available third-row seating when the seats are up. And to keep all of those passengers safe on the ride, the 4Runner is equipped with 8 standard airbags, side-impact door beams, Star Safety System™ and other great features to provide you with better peace of mind while on the road.

So, what do you think? That was a lot to take in, but we want to help you find the perfect Toyota for your style and budget. If you think the 2016 4Runner would be a perfect match for you, feel free to view our inventory and give us a call.

Ah, March. A time where winter is on its way out and spring is slowly but surely making its way in.

The month of March holds many exciting events this year, and Chicago is a great place to be if you’re looking to get in the spirit.

That said, we came up with a list of some fun events for you and your family to attend this month to celebrate all there is to offer:

St. Patrick’s Parade (West)

March 5

Elmhurst

Celebrate Irish tradition with leprechauns, clowns, jugglers, dancers, bagpipes, marching bands and floats at Elmhurst St. Patrick’s Day Parade. This is a free event, so bring the whole family along! Learn more here.

Polar Plunge

March 6

North Avenue Beach

Brr! Brace yourself and join 3,000 who wade into the cold waters of Lake Michigan to support charity during Chicago Polar Plunge at North Avenue Beach. Or, you can stay warm and watch from the shore.

St. Patrick’s Day – Green River

March 12

Downtown Chicago

The Chicago River is going green. Watch the Chicago River flow green at the Dyeing of the Chicago River. This event can be best viewed from the east side of the Columbus Drive Bridge or downstream. This is a new location for this year, due to construction. Learn more here.

St. Patrick’s Run

March 12

Soldier Field

Ready for some spring training? Well it’s time to come out of hibernation and stretch those legs. You’ll see plenty of costumes at the Get Lucky half marathon 14K, and 7K that begin at Soldier Field South Parking Lot and go south along the lake. Find out more here.

Maple Sugar Fair

March 12-13

Naper Settlement, Naperville

Does it get any sweeter? Watch Maple Tree tapping, taste a maple treat, and do activities in the historic buildings at Maple Sugaring Spring Fever at Naper Settlement. More information here.

Easter at Lincoln Park Zoo

March 26

Lincoln Park Zoo

This is a great event for the kids. Eat breakfast with the Easter Bunny, hunt for eggs, visit animals and ride the train and carousel at the Easter Egg-Stravaganza at Lincoln Park Zoo. Make your plans here.

Easter in the Garden

March 27

Chicago Botanic Garden

Time to welcome spring and celebrate Easter! Enjoy a festive Easter Egg Brunch and bring a basket for the Easter egg hung at the Chicago Botanic Garden in Glencoe. See more here.

We hope you can find some time to attend one of these events and enjoy. Feel free to share your fun experiences with us on Facebook. Happy March to you!

We had a great time at the Chicago Auto Show this year and we have to say, the Toyota display pulled out all the stops.

From the all-new Prius to the Tacoma to the RAV4 test track from the blizzard to the beach, there was a lot to see. In fact, there was so much that we couldn’t cover everything during our visit.

Besides, that would spoil the fun, don’t you think?

However, we did think it would be a great idea to show you some vehicle highlights that you can’t miss when you make the trip:

You couldn’t walk into the Toyota display without meeting eyes with the all-new 2016 Prius. With its bold new look and sleek design, there were a few that guests had the opportunity to view inside and out. This new Prius can get up to 54 city mpg / 50 highway mpg when taken on the roads so you can expect fuel efficiency wherever you go.

With its chiseled character lines and muscular fenders, the Toyota Tacoma was definitely one of the stars of the Toyota showcase. This bar-raising truck couldn’t be missed with its unwavering capability and good looks to match. We even found one decked out in camouflage.

It wouldn’t be a true auto show without concept cars. The FV2 Concept drew the attention of the crowd with its simple design and futuristic features. You couldn’t help but want to know more about what it would be like to drive such a vehicle (if that’s what you want to call it).

It’s eye-catching. It’s innovative. It’s the all-new Toyota Corolla. We found a few at the auto show and were able to get a close-up look on its smooth lines and aerodynamic style. With an EPA-estimated 42 highway mpg / 30 city mpg, you will certainly go places with this ride. Plus, it’s loaded with the latest technology to keep you connected.

Whatever it was that brought you to the Chicago Auto Show, we hope you had the opportunity to check out Toyota’s large display. Remember, you can still attend through this Sunday (Feb. 21).

If you find a particular model that catches your eye, make your way over to Continental Toyota afterward for a test drive. Well help you to find everything you need and get you into that new Toyota that piqued your interest at the Chicago Auto Show.

Have you seen the latest Prius?

You may have seen its ‘big screen debut’ with its commercial during the Big Game last weekend, or perhaps you’ve followed the updated model since its first appearance in Las Vegas last September.

Either way, this hybrid has been claimed to “rewrite the hybrid rule book it created” with its striking new design and features.

This all-new fourth-generation 2016 Prius liftback takes the hybrid concept farther than ever with its compelling design, higher fuel economy ratings and better ride comfort.

This Prius is longer, lower and wider than its esteemed predecessors. Its new shape provides more room in the interior and a more planted stance for handling agility. The fuel economy ratings have improved in comparison to the previous model thanks to its new aerodynamic shape.

That said, you can look to see fuel economy ratings of 54 MPG city / 50 MPG highway / 52 MPG combined. You’ll be surprised to find how much better that is compared to any mass-produced passenger vehicle available without a plug. Also, just like before, the Prius takes regular-grade gasoline. No need to shell out extra cash at the pump.

Step into the futuristic interior and you’ll find all-new seats that give everyone room to stretch out with the extra space. Take advantage of the available technology like a 7-in. touch-screen display, 4.2-in. color dual Multi-Information Display (MID) with customizable screens and available Qi-compatible wireless and smartphone charging that help to keep you in command.

Want to get a look for yourself? Stop by anytime to check out our Prius inventory. We’d be more than happy to take you on a test drive and show you all that this new Prius is capable of.

Heading to the Chicago Auto Show this weekend? You can catch it there, too. Make a stop by Toyota’s display and check it out. We’ll be ready to take you on a test drive when you return.

Winter has most definitely arrived in Chicagoland.

The temperature has dropped, the roads are icy and the snow continues to fall. While you already have to worry about slipping and sliding on the dangerous roads, you also need to be able to see where you’re going.

And regular wiper blades aren’t enough to do the trick.

We’ll admit, wiper blades aren’t the most exciting part of your car, but they are extremely important. You need to be able to see where you're going!

Here are a few reasons why you should replace your regular wiper blades with winter ones (as if living in ‘Chiberia’ wasn’t reason enough!).

• A winter wiper blade is typically encased in a protective rubber shell that helps keep it snow and ice-free. This also helps extend the service life of the wiper.
• When the winter conditions get rough, winter wiper blades will help you maintain strong visibility on the roads. This is crucial in keeping you aware and safe while driving.
• They’re inexpensive. You can pick up a set starting at around $20, with nicer sets around $30. This is a small price to pay for wiper blades that will last you through the long winter of Chicagoland. Plus, you are supposed to replace your wiper blades every six months to a year anyway (depending on how well they perform).

Also, know that a quality washer fluid will go hand-in-hand with your winter wiper blades. Even if your wiper blades are top quality, a windshield that’s caked with slush and salt will be difficult to clear with the blades alone.

If you only use the wiper blades against a filthy windshield, they will wear faster as well. So, purchase some quality washer fluid to help keep your windshield clean and easy to view the roads through.

An expense like winter wiper blades and washer fluid is nothing when compared to your safety on the road. Be sure to have yours replaced so you can go places with better peace of mind this winter.

And as always, we’d be more than happy to assist you in replacing yours at our service department, as well as answer any questions or concerns you may have.

Safe travels!

This is one popular compact car.

The 2016 Toyota Corolla is here to impress for another year, with minor changes that make a big impact on your driving experience.

Whether you've been behind the wheel of a Corolla before, or are new to this model, it’s definitely one that has made waves among compact cars.

You have a personal style. The Corolla helps kick it up with its eye-catching design, premium interior features and the latest technology to keep you in the know.

And if just looking at the Corolla gives you an adrenaline rush, then wait until you get behind the wheel. The sport-inspired, wind-tunnel-tested, aerodynamic design isn’t just for show; it allows for better handling and fuel economy.

Standard LED headlights set the stage for a stylish look, regardless of the time of day. These lights not only enhance the profile of the Corolla, but they help you to see and be seen. These lights complement the piano-black grille highlighted by chrome trim. Even when it’s not in motion, the 2016 Corolla demands your attention.

17-in. alloy wheels are available in the 2016 Corolla that add to its unique profile. With these, every stoplight is a chance to make an impression, as every spoke on the wheels is crafted to enhance style and performance.

With that said, we can’t forget about one of the most important details: the interior.

A fluid dashboard with smooth lines and aerodynamic style continue inside the Corolla and there is a fine attention to detail inside the cabin with piano-black accents that help showcase a stylish interior that has been elevated to a whole new level. Your rear passengers get some extra love too: the Corolla was designed with extra space in the back so they can sit comfortably and accompany you on your long trips.

The updated technology allows you to stay in touch, wherever you go. Standard Bluetooth means more music, easy phone calls without wires. You can receive calls without ever needing to fiddle around with your phone. Eyes on the road! Throw in a backup camera to keep you from bumping into the garbage cans and also allow you to fit in that tight spot in that overcrowded parking lot.

Here are some important features you won't want to miss:

• MSRP: From $17,230
• MPG: Up to 30 city, 42 highway
• Horsepower: 132 to 140 HP
• Engine: 1.8L 4-cylinder
• Fuel tank capacity: 13.2 gal
• Earned an 8.6/10 on Kelley Blue Book

Think the 2016 Toyota Corolla is destined to be your next ride? Check out our inventory today, and feel free to swing by or give us a call. We’d be more than happy to fit you with your perfect match.

Not all children have the privilege of receiving gifts around the holidays each year. For the past four years, Continental Toyota has decided to do a little something about it.

Each year, children from the Illinois Masonic Children’s Home in LaGrange receive gifts from Santa Claus, which are generously provided by Continental Toyota employees who received the children’s Christmas lists a few weeks prior.

Like the previous year, all of the festivities were held inside the Continental Toyota/Scion dealership. This allowed the employees to watch the children receive their gifts and spread some holiday cheer through participation in games and fun.

Cookies and other desserts were provided  for the children while they awaited the arrival of Santa Claus. Santa called up individual children to give them a special gift from their wish list and they were free to enjoy.

Business Development Manager Jackie Dybas helped coordinate the event and planned games for the children. She said that participating in this event is not an option and that in fact, she looks forward to it each year.

“The excitement on the children’s faces is something that just warms your heart and reminds you what Christmas is all about!” Dybas said. “I am already looking forward to next year, and I’ve even started brainstorming some new ideas.

Dealer Principal Cheryl Nelson wanted to ensure that both children and employees have the opportunity to get into the spirit.

“Hosting the event helps the dreams of these children to come true,” Nelson said. “The employees participate and experience the joy of giving. The combination sets the spirit of the season and I wouldn’t have it any other way.”

This is one tradition that Continental Toyota that we hope to continue for years to come. We’d also like to take this opportunity to wish you and your family a very Happy Holidays and that the new year brings nothing but happiness and many miles of smiles!

As they say, “It’s the most wonderful time of the year”. Whether you believe that or not, you definitely won’t want to pass up the fun holiday happenings in the Chicagoland area.

To help you out, we’ve compiled a short list of some things to do, so you can have a little fun this month before the winter months ahead leave you trapped at home.

Check it out:

Skating Ribbon

Maggie Daley Park from late Nov. – Mar.

Hours: See on website

Head over to the heart of downtown Chicago and get your skate on! A ribbon of ice winds through a rolling landscape that provides you with a skating experience unlike any other. Rent some skates, catch the scenery and enjoy a cup of hot chocolate afterwards.

More info

Naper Lights

Naper Settlement in Downtown Naperville from Nov. 27 – Dec. 31

Hours: 5 PM -9 PM

Free

If you live near the suburbs, you might want to enjoy the Christmas lights extravaganza with a combination of holiday displays for you and your family or friends to enjoy. If you’re looking to take a nice walk and enjoy the sights, then this is a great event for you.

More info

Winter Wonderfest

Festival Hall at Navy Pier from Dec. 14 – Jan. 10

Hours: 10 AM – 8 PM

Free

Enjoy dozens of rides, slides, ice skating, photo opportunities and more all at Navy Pier this Holiday Season. Plus, it’s all indoors so you won’t have to worry about throwing on some extra layers. Expect crowds.

More info

Morton Arboretum Christmas Lights

Morton Arboretum from Dec. 15 – Jan. 2

Hours: 5 PM – 9:30 PM

This event has been declared a “must-see destination” by the Chicago Tribune. Take a walk and tour the annual display of lights, sights and sounds that will transform a walk in the woods into a colorful and delightful experience. The Morton Arboretum will glow with dazzling LED lights that respond to your touch and voice. Pretty cool, right?

More info 

Blue Man Group

Briar Street Theatre from Dec. 15 – Jan. 10

Blue Man Group returns with a new stage show that combines music, technology and comedy to create a form of entertainment that appeals to all ages. Purchase your tickets and bring the family for a good time.

More info

Wonderland Express

Chicago Botanic Garden from Dec. 18 – Jan. 3

Hours: 10 AM – 7 PM

The Wonderland Express is one of Chicago area’s top holiday “must-sees”. It features a train running through an indoor garden past miniature buildings at Chicago Botanic Garden. A great photo opportunity with this fun holiday exhibition!

More info

Chicago Scene’s New Years Eve Party

The Drake Hotel on Dec. 31

Hours: 9 PM – 2 AM

This 16^th annual New Year’s Eve bash will feature four ballrooms complete with DJs, 45 bartenders and a balloon drop. If you’re looking for a place to celebrate with your friends, then this is it. Make your way to The Drake Hotel for Chicago’s longest running NYE party.

More info

New Year’s Eve Fireworks

Navy Pier on Dec. 31

Hours: Midnight

Free

Looking for a place to celebrate New Year’s with the family or someone you love? Bundle up and swing by Navy Pier to catch a gorgeous display of fireworks. It’s Chicago’s only lakefront midnight fireworks show, so be sure to check it out.

More info

Around this time of year, many organizations generously give back to those in need, whether it’s with food, gifts or monetary donations.

Continental Motors Group has once again given back to the communities they have served for more than 50 years with a contribution that lasts far beyond a season.

For the fifth consecutive year, Continental Motors Group has teamed up with Naperville Cares and LaGrange Pillars for their annual “Driven to Care” Event on Wednesday Dec. 2 at Continental Toyota Hodgkins.

Many families in Chicagoland are just one missed paycheck away from a major financial crisis. This ‘bump’ in the road can be made worse without an independent and reliable means of transportation. On Wednesday, Dec. 2, eight area families in need were back on the road again. These families have completed the application process through Naperville Cares’ Car Program and have received refurbished used vehicles donated by Continental Motors Group.

There were a total of seven organizations that participated in the car giveaway. Naperville Cares coordinated with the organizations: Outreach Community Services, YMCA of Metra Chicago, Crisis Center of South Suburbia, Catholic Charities, DuPage County Community Services and Open Door.

“We’re working with two great charities, Naperville Cares and Pillars in La Grange,” Joel Weinberger, Dealer Principal of Continental Motors Group said, “And it’s incredibly gratifying for us to help those who don’t just WANT a care, but are in genuine NEED of a car. Over the past four years, we’ve seen our donated vehicles make a huge positive impact in the lives of the recipients.”

“Compassion and empathy are part of our core values. It’s how we were raised. And to be in the fortunate position of being able to give back to the community in a special way that relates to our business – we couldn’t be more excited!” Weinberger said. “Cars are just metal, rubber and plastic, and the Driven to Care Program gives them a heart.

Check out our video recap to get a better glimpse of our event.

It’s out there.

Hop into this pickup and start the engine with just a push of a button. Are you ready to hit the ground running?

The 2016 Toyota Tacoma is here with a bold new look for the year ahead. With sharp character lines and muscular fenders to help show off its strength, the Tacoma’s attitude is amplified and ready to roll.

Step into the interior to see soft-touch materials to boost your comfort with leather-trimmed seating surfaces for ultimate sophistication. An available 4.2 in. color Multi-Information Display helps keep you updated on the information you need and improvements to reduce the outside noise makes the Tacoma’s comfy cabin quieter than ever. Slide open the available moonroof to enhance your driving experience and give you anything from a cool breeze to an epic view of the sky.

New high-strength steel is used in the construction of every 2016 Tacoma to ensure it delivers the toughness you expect. The Tacoma’s available 3.5-liter V6 with direct injection is all new and gives you everything you want. It has more power with 278 horsepower and 265 lb.-ft of torque at 4600 rpm, so you have all you need to tow haul and run the dunes.

Like to control your own gears? The 6-speed manual has been upgraded for an improved shift feel to add more fun to your drive.

When you’re towing a heavy load, the wind can sometimes kick up a notch, making your trailer sway on the road. The Trailer Sway Control (TSC) applies brake pressure at individual wheels and manages engine torque to help maintain better control of the trailer.

For when you take it off road, Crawl Control is an advanced system in the Tacoma that automatically modulates the throttle and brakes on five low-speed settings so you can keep your focus on navigating across difficult terrain.

And after all of that, we've barely scratched the surface of all that this beast has to offer.

If you're in the market for something powerful to take you anywhere, check our current Tacoma inventory or contact us today.

Looking to knockout some holiday shopping?

Whether you participate in Black Friday shopping or avoid it like the plague, we have some tips to help you ensure that it’s a success.

In addition, we’ll throw in some cyber Monday advice for those of you who prefer to do all of your holiday shopping from the comfort of your couch.

Sound good?

Plan ahead 

Make a plan of the stores you want to hit and what you hope to get there. You wouldn’t want to make this day any longer by making unnecessary trips and battling big crowds for nothing. Your time is valuable.

Stay aware of hidden costs

Looking for a specific product? Research it beforehand to know what the typical cost is, so that you know you’re getting a deal when it goes on sale. Sometimes, retailers mark the original price above what it normally is, so it seems like you’re getting a good deal.

Check return and refund policies

If you are unsure about refund and return policies at a store, check beforehand. Some deals are non-refundable. You wouldn’t want to be stuck with what turned out to be a cheap or broken product that you woke up at the crack of dawn for.

Be careful of suspicious websites

Double check the domain name of any websites you visit to ensure it’s not a scam. These websites can pop up and appear as a popular shopping site with amazing deals. A fraudulent website will have a name that typically differs by a slight change of a number or letter.

Keep your eyes peeled.

Don’t be quick to give information

Spot a deal that seems way too good to be true? It probably is. Read the fine print before you give away personal information and keep an eye out for anything that seems suspicious. Scammers can easily steal your information and resell it. 

And if you want to skip the chaos and rush of Black Friday altogether, feel free to stop by Continental Toyota for our Holiday Crush Sales Event. Enjoy a warm beverage while you search for the perfect Toyota and receive big savings.

But most importantly, please enjoy your Thanksgiving Holiday with family and friends. We are thankful for you, our customer, and want you to keep Thursday as a day of thanks spent with the ones you love.

Happy Holidays!

The new year is quickly approaching, and Toyota is ready for action with a brand-new addition to its line of hybrids.

In fact, it will be the eighth.

For 2016, Toyota will launch the first RAV4 Hybrid as part of a refreshed RAV4 line.

Roughly two decades ago, the RAV4 was the pioneering model of the crossover landscape for Toyota. The new vehicle combined SUV versatility with car-like handling, ride comfort and fuel economy. (Not long after the RAV4 came the world’s best-selling hybrid vehicle, the Prius.)

With a targeted audience of active young couples, the 2016 RAV4 Hybrid is sure to please if you place high fuel economy at the top of your list. If you also prefer style, utility, versatility and capability for your ride, then the new RAV4 Hybrid could be the perfect match for you.

With that said, the fuel economy rates are expected to be high. Toyota anticipates EPA ratings of 34 mpg city / 31 mpg highway / 33 mpg combined for both 2016 RAV4 Hybrid models. There will be two premium upgrades available: XLE and Limited. The RAV4 gas version comes in four upgrades: LE, XLE, Limited and the new SE.

Here are some other great features to take note of:

• 5 liter Atkinson cycle four-cylinder engine
• 194 system horsepower
• Zero to 60 mph in 8.1 seconds
• 206 lb.-ft. of total system torque

As the driver of a 2016 RAV4 Hybrid, you can play an active role in conserving fuel. All you have to do is select one of the several operating modes. For example, choosing ECO mode (on Hybrid and Gas models) optimizes throttle response and air conditioning output to help prioritize fuel economy.

In addition, a Hybrid System Indicator and fuel consumption indicator, located in a 4.2-inch TFT screen can help to coach you so that you can operate the vehicle as economically as possible.

Stay tuned for more updates on this new and exciting hybrid model.

In the meantime, feel free to check out our current RAV4 inventory.

Among the friendly and welcoming staff at Continental Toyota and Continental Scion, you can expect to see a fresh face.

Last month, we welcomed our new General Sales Manager Gary Nudelman, to the Continental family.

Bringing almost two decades of automotive experience to the team, Nudelman is ready to take this position with pride and continue to achieve the level of customer commitment that is already part of the Continental Toyota/Scion culture.

In terms of goals, he wants to increase sales on both the new and used car side while maintaining the highest level of CSI. Furthermore, he said he’d like to develop the variable side of the business to achieve top five representation in our Toyota region.

However, all in all, Nudelman said that what he loves most about his job are the people.

“Both my teammates and customers; You can learn something new from everyone,” Nudelman said.

With that said, customers can look to Nudelman because of his willingness to help.

“I am customer-centric and truly believe the best way to build your business is to retain your current customers while making new ones,” he said.

In his free time, Nudelman competes on a national level in TaeKwon Do and holds several black belts in associated disciplines. He also teaches martial arts to underprivileged children. He currently lives with his family in Bartlett.

‘“My personal motto is “never stop fighting,”’ he said. “If you want something, go get it and never quit.”

While we had fun getting to know him a little better, we want our customers to get to know him as well. Feel free to drop by and say hello whenever you get a chance.

Let’s make him feel welcome.

Can you believe it’s November already?

For the Chicago area, that means one thing: cold weather up ahead.

Whether you like to take care of your car yourself or prefer to have it checked out by a professional service, there are a few important things to check out before the winter season is upon us.

And it arrives quickly.

Check your battery 

Connections should be free of corrosion and nice and tight. The colder weather is hard on batteries, which means they should be checked more often.

Is your battery more than three years old? If so, it’s a wise idea to have it replaced. You won’t receive a warning sign that it’s about to bite the dust, so you might as well spare having to flag someone down to help you jump your car later.

Take a look at your tires 

As you probably already know, your tires lose pressure when the temperature drops. That’s why it’s a good time to check the pressure as well as the tread depth. Be sure to lookout for any bald spots or bulges, too.

Also note that if your tires have uneven wear, it might be time to have them rotated.

Check your heater, defroster and wiper blades

You wake up on a cold morning to see that frost or snow has taken over your vehicle. Although you’ll initially have to do some scraping, your defroster and wiper blades should take care of the rest to keep you safe and warm while you drive. Replace you wiper blades if they’re torn or cracked. Otherwise, you should replace them every six months or so.

It’s crucial that you have full visibility when driving through ice and snow. Comfort is important, but safety is priority.

Have your brakes inspected 

It’s absolutely critical that your brakes are performing like they should during the colder months. Make sure you have your entire brake system checked to ensure that you’ll be safe on ice and snow-covered roads. They’re pretty slick.

If you haven’t had any service to your vehicle recently, then now is the time to do it. And if you live in Chicago, you know how it goes. The weather will turn colder and winter will be here with the blink of an eye.

Wouldn’t you rather spare the headache of a breakdown later, costing you to fork over your hard-earned savings?

We thought so.

Feel free to schedule service with us at anytime because it’s never too late. We’ll be more than happy to inspect your vehicle and ensure that you’re safe and sound while on the road this fall and winter season.