Whether you’re headed to high school or college (or have already started) you’ve realized it’s time to upgrade your ride. Because hey, repairs on your used car are costly and asking friends for a ride is really cramping your style.

Not to worry, we found the perfect new ride for you – one that fits within your budget and gives you the look you want.

It’s the 2016 Toyota Corolla.

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And here are a few reasons why this beauty should qualify for your first new car:

Fits your budget

With a starting MSRP at $17,300, this compact car can fit comfortably within your budget. Throw in some attractive leasing options and you’re good to go!

We know that school can cost a lot of money, so it’s a good bet to choose something that will not only have style, but also give value for your hard-earned dollar.

Has the technology you need

Equipped with technology like the Smart Key System with Push Button Start, a backup camera, Standard Bluetooth® , voice recognition, USB port and more, you’ll have all of the technology right at your fingertips – just the way you like it. So, turn up the tunes and pick up some friends. It’s time to head back to school!

Will get you more for less

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In addition to an appealing MSRP, the 2016 Corolla is efficient, with an EPA-estimated 42 highway mpg and 30 city mpg to be exact. It was designed with a thirst for adventure, not fuel, so go ahead and make a few trips back and forth from school or around campus without spending your whole paycheck on gas.

Can make you stand out

While fuel-efficiency, price and function are important, you also want to look good on the road. With an aggressive grille, standard LED headlights, available 17-in. alloy wheels and a premium interior styling, you’ll be sure to turn heads everywhere you go.

So, what do you think? Does the 2016 Toyota Corolla make the cut to be your first new car? Check out our inventory today and feel free to give us a call. We’d be proud to assist you with this major life milestone!

Good luck and work hard!

We did it! We recently celebrated 50 years of business here at Continental Toyota.

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Our store began as a small dealership, joining the Continental Motors Group in 1966, and has now evolved into a successful business with lifelong customers. To top it all off, our store was the first Toyota dealer in Illinois. It was also the second factory-authorized dealer in Chicago.

Today, Continental Motors Group is recognized as the largest dealer groups in Illinois with eight locations employing in excess of 480 people.

We’d like to take this opportunity to thank our hard working employees and loyal customers for making Continental Toyota the successful business that it is today.

Dealer Principal Cheryl Nelson said to reach 50 years in a family business is the ultimate accomplishment.

“Looking back over the years, the hard working employees and guidance from my dad made this all possible,” she said. “I am thankful for the support of business relationships that were established over the years. I can say I still thoroughly enjoy what I do and look forward to the future as our business evolves.”

Watch our video recap!

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Have you joined us on Facebook?

This month, we’re hosting an exciting contest on our page for a chance to win a handcrafted Bean Bag Toss set from our very own Li Schiavitti.

This could be the perfect game for a Labor Day Weekend party or a simple outdoors game with a fun way to represent your favorite Chicago baseball team.

Want to get in on the fun?

Head over to our Facebook page and you’ll see the contest post pinned at the top. In order to enter, you have to like our page and share your favorite baseball memory in the comments whether it be with a story or photo. We will select a winner on September 1st. Our winner must be able to claim this prize at our location.

Check out our contest video!

Make sure you follow us on Twitter and Instagram, too. You never know when another fun giveaway will pop up.

Best of luck – Have some fun with this!

The time has come for you to take that leap and buy a new car.

And while you may have your heart set on a 2016 Toyota Camry, there are a few things to know before you head over to the dealership to purchase.

Have I done the research?

Before you being your car-shopping journey, it’s important that you do your homework first. Have you collected quotes and searched online prices to ensure that you’re getting a good deal? It’s a crucial first step in the car buying process and could end up saving you big in the end. So, grab your smartphone or laptop and get comfortable. The research beforehand is always worth it.

Will this fit my lifestyle?

A two-door sports car might be the car of your dreams, but have you considered if it will fit your lifestyle? If you plan on starting a family soon, you might want to go with a more accommodating vehicle like an SUV or minivan. Plus, if you like traveling, the extra space could do wonders for all of your stuff. If you plan to keep your new vehicle for years to come, consider how your lifestyle could change within that time.

Am I financially stable?

Now that you have a good idea of what kind of car you want, you’ll need to know how much of a loan you’ll need to finance it. Find our your credit score and try getting pre-approved for a car loan so that you can shop with full confidence. Create a budget to make sure that a car payment will fit comfortably with other finances.

Do I know the invoice price?

Once it’s time to hit the lot, you should have in mind the invoice and MSRP (Manufacturers Suggested Retail Price) of the vehicle you’re looking for, so you can properly negotiate. Try to reach an agreement close to that number and remember that the dealer needs to make a profit too.

Am I happy with the test drive?

The test drive is the moment of truth. Don’t rush it. It’s important that you like the features and way it drives so that you’ll be happy in the long run. Will this vehicle fit your belongings in the trunk? Will the backseat be spacious enough for your children? Picture yourself in this car years from now and see if it still fits your lifestyle. Also, don’t be afraid to ask as many questions as you’d like. Your sales consultant will be happy to answer and point out the details.

At Continental Toyota, we want you to feel confident with your purchase and ensure that everything goes smoothly. Of course, if you’re uncertain about what you’re looking for, we’re always more than happy to help out. So, what are you waiting for? Take that first step and begin your research on our website.

Happy car shopping!

The kids are out of school, the weather is hot and there is still a whole lot of summer left!

At Continental Toyota, we want to kick your summer up a notch by hosting our biggest Facebook contest of this year: Summer Family Fun Giveaway.

Once you follow the entry rules, you’ll be entered to win a big summer bundle with goodies that include:

  • Beach towels
  • A portable charcoal grill
  • Beach balls
  • A beach bag
  • A light-up Frisbee
  • And more!

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To Enter this contest is simple. There are three ways that you can get a chance to win:

  • Like our Facebook page from your personal account.
  • Check-in on Facebook whenever you’re at our store. Oil change? Browsing around? Do a Facebook check-in whenever you come by and you’ll be entered.
  • Pose for a photo with your sales consultant after you buy a vehicle. In the market for a new ride? Be sure to have a photo snapped with your sales consultant and post on Facebook after your purchase for a chance to win.

That’s all it takes for a chance to win our huge summer family bundle. So, what are you waiting for? Enter our contest today, because we will select a winner on August 1st, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the summer goodies before it’s back to school/work.

Follow us on Twitter and Facebook for other fun contests, news, dealership happenings and more.

Good luck to you all!

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.

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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.

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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.

Fireworks

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. 

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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 13th 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!

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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.

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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!”

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Looking for a hot ride for the summer? Take a look at the 2016 Toyota Camry.

The 2016 Camry was designed for those who dare to be bold. Once you get behind the wheel, everyone will know when you’ve arrived because this ride was designed to turn heads.

Consider yourself to be a driving enthusiast? You’ll appreciate the Camry’s front sport seats. Not to mention, there’s plenty of room. You can expect to see more knee and legroom for passengers in the front and rear. Turn up the music with the available JBL® GreenEdge™ audio system. You’ll find ten speakers in eight locations, plus a subwoofer and amplifier to keep your music coming in crystal clear.

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The Camry was designed to thrill. With its available 3.5-liter V6 puts 268 horsepower under your right foot. This makes for a powerful ride. The 4-cyclinder offers up to an EPA-estimated 35 highway mpg, and the sporty V6 offers up to an EPA-estimated 31 highway mpg.

In order to drive with full peace of mind, the Camry has ten standard airbags for you and your passengers. Also, the Camry comes standard with the Star Safety System™, a suite of six advanced safety features designed to help keep you out of harm’s way. With available Safety Connect®, emergency assistance is always within reach.

Starting MSRP is at $23,070. Come in to Continental Toyota today to find your perfect match.