26th Annual Lindale Rodeo – Sponsored by Classic Toyota

Posted on May 16, 2013 by ToyotaCars

It’s that time of year again! The 2013 Lindale Championship Rodeo is this weekend at the Lindale Rodeo Arena. Stop on out May 16-18th to get in on the fun, suitable for the entire family!

Gates open at 6:00pm on Thursday, Friday and Saturday, with events starting shortly thereafter. Here’s the lineup:

Thursday, May 16th:

6:15pm – Crossbrand Cowboy Church Mutton Bustin (Preregistration required)
6:45pm – Ghost Riders
7:00pm – Sandi Dickie
7:30pm – The Rodeo begins

Friday, May 17th

6:15pm – Iron Mountain Project
6:45pm – Sandi Dickie
7:30pm – The Rodeo begins

Saturday, May 18th

6:15pm – Wayland Hicks and the Backroad Travelers
7:30pm – The Rodeo begins

Adult tickets are $6 if purchased in advance at one of the following locations: Brookshire’s, Capital One, Flemings Farm Ranch, Kidd Jones, Lindale Chamber office, Lindale State Bank, Southside Bank, Trinity Mother Frances-Lindale. Tickets will be $8 if purchased at the gate.

Children’s tickets can be picked up for FREE at the following locations: Lindale State Bank (for Thursday night only), Capital One (for Friday night only) and Brookshire’s (for Saturday night only). Children’s tickets will be $5 if picked up at the gate.

Classic Toyota is proud to be a recurring sponsor for the Lindale Rodeo each year! Be sure to stop on out and watch the shows! We’ll all be there, cheering on Carly Blackmer, daughter of New Car Sales Manager, Jeff, in the barrel race on Friday.”We hope to see you all there, and be sure to say hello!

Preparing For a Future of Autonomous Driving

Posted on May 9, 2013 by ToyotaCars

We’re all eager to just hop into our car, tell it where to go, and then sit back and enjoy the ride. We know that there has been talk of automated cars for years, so what’s the holdup? Soon, this will become a reality, but in the meantime, major automakers like Toyota are working to ensure this technology is perfected in order to minimize potential accidents

However, different elements of self-driving cars are already making their way into cars, giving us a hint of what’s to come! Take the Toyota Avalon for example. This model features sensors and cameras that detect if you’re about to run into an object as well as a radar-based cruise control system that will automatically adjust your speed in regards to your distance away from other cars. Toyota also features headlights that will automatically switch between regular and hi-beam lights when you’re approaching another car, allowing you to leave your focus on the road and your hands on the steering wheel.

Another new feature Toyota has included in the advanced technology package of the Prius V is park assist. This enhancement actually allows you to parallel park or back up your vehicle without the use of your hands. The technology utilizes computer processors, backup cameras and different sensors that will move the car into the appropriate spot that is aligned on the screen.

Toyota continues to advance the technology we’re already seeing today to help make autonomous driving a reality. We at Classic Toyota couldn’t be more excited about what’s to come! Stop on into the dealership to see firsthand what enhancements are already included in our models and to find out more information about what we can expect from Toyota.

The Redesigned 2014 Toyota 4Runner Has Been Revealed!

Posted on May 3, 2013 by ToyotaCars

The all new, redesigned 2014 Toyota 4Runner was released on April 27^th, shocking off-road enthusiasts with its new design. As one of few fully capable mid-size SUVs, the 2014 4Runner will keep those familiar attributes, but has received a complete redesign, which includes a more rugged exterior look along with interior enhancements that will not only add comfort and convenience, but does so without giving up value or performance capabilities.

The exterior is one of the biggest changes to the ever-popular 4Runner. The redesign was intended to convey a more aggressive and rugged look to the already attractive SUV. A new muscular front grille, smokey headlamps and other designs help to provide that edgier, forceful look Toyota was looking for.

Soft Touch door trim, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and a new leather shift knob are among the enhancements to the interior of the 4Runner. These along with a new Optitron instrument panel (SR5), fabric-trimmed seating (SR5 and Trail grades), different seating configurations, third row seating (SR5 and Limited grades) and many more designs help to ensure the interior is complimenting that new rugged exterior.

Stop by Classic Toyota for more information on this complete makeover. Stay tuned for when the completely redesigned 2014 Toyota 4Runner makes it to our dealership!

Classic Toyota Tees Off for Charity

Posted on April 25, 2013 by ToyotaCars

Classic Toyota - Milam J Joseph Golf Tournament Classic Toyota was proud to sponsor the Milam J Joseph Golf Tournament that took place on April 16th, 2013 at Willow Brook Country Club. This tournament is hosted annually as a way to raise funding for the Tyler Catholic School Foundation.

The foundation was started back in 1983 by Monsignor Milam Joseph alongside a group of visionary supporters of Catholic education. Together, they created the Tyler Catholic School Foundation (TCSF), which has benefited through periods of growth and change in the economy, the Tyler Catholic community, and our schools. The TCSF has a solid mission to support all of the schools within the foundation. They strive to:

Provide scholarships to deserving students
Create endowments to support teaching excellence
Develop a permanent endowment fund
Provide an informational service for persons interested in supporting Catholic education at many different levels
Provide a focal point for lifetime memorial, philanthropic and testamentary gifts for the benefit of the students the Foundation serves
Constantly assess changing and emerging needs within the Tyler Catholic School System and develop support strategies to respond to them

TCSF has been able to stand true to their mission and beliefs by supporting Catholic and non-Catholic students of all ethnic backgrounds at St. Gregory Cathedral School and Bishop T.K Gorman Regional Catholic School. It is because of their many different funding efforts that they’re able to continue to provide the foundation to Tyler Catholics.

We at Classic Toyota want to thank everyone who participated in the event or stopped out last Monday. It’s through your support that the Foundation is able to do what they do for the Tyler Catholic community. Check out our Facebook page for more photos from the tournament.

5 Million Hybrids Strong

Posted on April 19, 2013 by ToyotaCars

Classic Toyota is thrilled to announce that Toyota has reached 5 million hybrid sales worldwide, and we’d like to thank our Toyota Hybrid owners for helping to make this possible! Toyota, along with Lexus, account for nearly 2 million of these hybrid sales in the United States, which is an outstanding reach. Because of this high number of sales, Toyota is helping to significantly reduce CO₂emissions and fuel consumption across the nation.

There are currently twelve Toyota and Lexus hybrid models available in the United States, with nearly twenty available worldwide. As environmental experts believe CO₂ emissions to be a major cause of the climate change that is occurring in the world today, Toyota is proud to have helped eliminate approximately 34 million tons of these emissions. Not to mention, Toyota believes their hybrids have helped to save more than 3 million gallons of gasoline for their owners.

Tony Markel, senior engineer with the U.S. Department of Energy’s National Renewable Energy Laboratory, commented “With more than 50 hybrid vehicle models from various manufacturers available in the U.S. today, hybrids on the road are saving nearly 500 million gallons of petroleum annually in this country. With millions of hybrids vehicles on the road today, hybrid power trains are mainstream market reality.”

Toyota has a total of 19 hybrid models (including Lexus) and one plug-in hybrid that are available in 80 different countries around the world. The models available in the U.S. include:

Prius Liftback
Prius v
Prius c
Prius Plug-in
Camry Hybrid
Avalon Hybrid
Highlander Hybrid
Lexus CT 200h
ES 300h
GS 450h
LS 600h
RX 450h

Toyota has plans to introduce 18 new hybrid models by the end of 2015 due to the booming success of their first loot. They’re expecting global sales of these hybrids to top 1 million units a year, with about a third of these sales occurring in the U.S.

Classic Toyota is ecstatic to be a part of a brand that is helping to eliminate harmful emissions in our world and would like to congratulate Toyota on reaching this milestone. Stop into today to check out our hybrid selection and become a part of the Toyota Hybrid family!

Put down the phone and recognize April as Distracted Driving Awareness Month

Posted on April 10, 2013 by ToyotaCars

The National Safety Council has declared April “Distracted Driving Awareness” month, as this is a growing problem in our society. Thousands of people die each year due to distracted driving, primarily by cell phone usage, which is something that can easily be avoided.

Due to this ever-growing problem, Toyota has made a stand to help educate our teens about safe driving habits and provides free events and online resources through their Toyota Driving Expectations program. Toyota has been offering this program for the last 10 years, and have benefited around 30,000 teens and parents since the start. This program is free-of-charge, and includes in-depth resources online to help reach their goal to reduce crashes caused by motor vehicles, which is one of the leading causes of death among teens in the United States.

Michael Rouse, Toyota’s Vice President of diversity, philanthropy and community affairs stated “Safer drivers lead to safer roads, so Toyota is committed to helping educate and empower teens and parents around smart driving choices”. He continued by saying ”Through our safe driving programs, partnerships and online resources, we hope more young drivers will absorb the sobering lessons of distracted driving and learn key skills to keep themselves safe behind the wheel”.

In addition to different events the program offers, Toyota Driving Expectations has formed teen driving assemblies in different high schools and car dealerships across the US to help educate teenagers. There are three major events taking place this summer with their “On The Road” program, which involves teens being lead through in-class discussions and driving courses. On June 8-9th, the San Antonio Texas plant will host one of these classes. With registration opening May 9th, you’ll be sure to want to take advantage of this opportunity!

We at Classic Toyota want to encourage everyone to take the National Safety Council’s pledge to drive cell free. Click here to take the pledge and join thousands of others who are against distracted driving.

Tyler Run for Autism – Sponsored by Classic Scion

Posted on April 5, 2013 by ToyotaCars

Classic Scion is proud to sponsor the second annual Tyler Run for Autism. Produced by a local non-profit, Defeating Autism Through ABA (DATA), this program is dedicated to the improvement of life for the children and the families of those affected by autism right here in our own town. DATA fully supports the Treatment and Learning Center that provides children with autism optional clinics and outreach services.

Last year, over $30,000 was successfully raised by those who participated in or sponsored the run, as well as the aftermath of generosity following the run. There were about 500 runners who helped make it a memorable first run for the program, and they’re looking to top that this year. The half marathon and 5k funds support ABA services, supplies and support for our youth that are affected by different levels of autism not only in Tyler, but across the nation as well.

This year’s run will be held on Saturday, April 13th in downtown Tyler Texas. You can register online at http://www.tylerrunforautism.org/, where you can also download the maps of the 5K and half marathon routes. You can also check out this year’s sponsors or make a donation on the website.

Classic is looking forward to the run this year and are proud to be a part of such an amazing event that allows us to give back to the community. We encourage everyone to register online or stop out to support the runners next weekend. We’ll see you there!

Snap-on Tools Masters of Metal Visits Classic Toyota

Posted on March 28, 2013 by ToyotaCars

Classic Toyota was proud to play host to the Snap-on Tools Masters of Metal Tour on March 19th. This tour travels the country with custom trailers full of the latest and best Snap-on tools and equipment used by car dealerships across the nation. The Master of Metal Tour celebrates automotive service technicians being “masters of their trade” at each stop they make. Just a few sneak peaks at Snap-on’s new offerings include tool storage solutions, power and hand tools that customers can get their hands on and interact with.

“With nearly a century of experience, market innovation and award-winning excellence, Snap-on has mastered the metal so techs can master their trade” said Yvette Morrison, VP of marketing at Snap-on Tools Group. This month, they set up at Classic Toyota, where hundreds of consumers showed up to check out their newest developments. Our service technicians were honored to get their hands on Snap-on’s newest releases and had a lot of fun with all of the demos.

We enjoyed having KNUE, your new country and all time favorites radio station, here to host the event. They kept the party going while people stopped to view the OCC Chopper, participate in product demos, and check out Snap-on’s custom roadster.

We at Classic Toyota had a blast, and we hope you had the opportunity to stop out! For more information about this event or others, contact us or check out our website!

Is Your Car Ready for Spring?

Posted on March 21, 2013 by ToyotaCars

It’s officially Spring! With that being said, is your car as ready for that balmy air as you are? We all love cruising for that first time since Fall with the windows down, but it’s important to make sure your car is ready for it!

Below are a few tips to keep in mind when you’re getting your car ready for Spring.

1. Be sure to wax your car before every season to touch up any stains or scratches you’ve acquired since the last. A liquid spray wax can be a quick way to ensure your car is shiny and ready for the streets; however, it should not be continually substituted for a real wax coating. Unfortunately, there isn’t a way to tell when all of the wax is worn off, which is why remembering to do it at the beginning of each season will help make sure your car is getting the protection it needs.

2. Spend the extra time to wash your car by hand. Not only will a hand-wash make certain that you get into every nook and cranny that the automatic wash might miss, it serves as an opportunity for you to inspect your car for any damage you might not be aware of. Be sure to use a carwash solution, rather than your own soapy mixture so you can preserve your car’s finish. And, don’t forget to dry it off, as you don’t want the water to evaporate and leave dirt on your newly washed car.

3. Shine up those wheels, but only with a non-acid based cleaner! Professionals will use acidic solutions, if necessary, to clear brake dust from wheels as well as clean residue from new tires. However, the acid can cause oxidization and pitting on bare alloy wheels and will also damage any painted or clear-coated wheels. You’ll want to use a type of degreaser instead, but be careful not to splash it on your paint.

Be sure to keep these helpful tips in mind when preparing your car for that first spring-road trip, or just to drive around town. It’s important to keep your car clean and ready to take on any new adventures.

Stop into Classic Toyota today for additional advice on how to protect your car and guarantee it’s ready for Spring!

Toyota Kicks Off 37th Annual Pro/Celebrity Race

Posted on March 15, 2013 by ToyotaCars

Toyota has always been known as a brand that knows how to work hard, and play hard. This has allowed them to make some of the beast cars on the road. But that work play ethic doesn’t stop here. Toyota has taken these two ideals and mixed them together in the 2013 Revved up to Race.

This exciting 37^th annual race will kick off on the 20^th of April, as Celebrities take to the track to help raise money for Racing for Kids. This non-profit fundraising program works to help support children’s hospitals across the country. So this 1.97 mile street course may not seem like much of a race track but it goes a long way to help save children from all over!

This year’s top billed cast includes the following:

Cristian Castro: The Grammy Winning Mexican pop star.
Michelle Rodriguez : Best known for her role in Avatar, the fast & Furious and other tough movies
Brett Davern: This MTV actor has also been on screen for shows such as Cold Cars, and CSI: Miami.
Jenna Elfman: You may know her best from TV’s Dharma & Greg, or the movie Friends with Benefits.
Jessica Hardy: Olympic Gold medalist and multiple world record holder.
Jesse Matcalfe: Most popularly known for his role in Desperate Housewives, or John Tucker Must Die.
Dakota Meyer: A Former U.S. Marine who received the Medal of Honor, and is now a writer.
Jackson Rathbone: This actor was made famous for playing Jasper in the popular Twilight series.
Wanda Sykes: An Emmy winning Comedian, writer, and actress, known as one of the funniest people in America.

Other racers include: Kate del Castillo, Jeremy Sisto, Mark Steines, Michael Trucco, Rutledge Wood, Andy Bell, Tyler Clary, Melanie Troxel, Carter Lay, Dave Pasant, Glenn Faber,

“This talented and inspiring celebrity group will not only help Toyota share the story of this long-running charity event, but they also will feel the rush behind the wheel on the famous Toyota Grand Prix of Long Beach track,” said Les Unger, Toyota national motorsports manager. “The Toyota Pro/Celebrity Race thrills both the participants and the crowds while giving back to kids in our communities through donations to Children’s Hospital of Orange County and Miller Children’s Hospital Long Beach.”

Pictured below is last year’s winner, Adam Carolla, famous for his comedy.

Be sure to catch this exciting race that will take place in Long Beach California. This awesome race has donated over $2 million dollars to the “Racing for Kids Organization” If you would like more information you can always visit www.toyotaracing.com/series/toyota-pro-celebrity.html.

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