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McGrath Lexus Chicago Blog

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Welcome to our new blog!

December 7th, 2009

We are excited to launch our new site www.mcgrathlexus.com and we welcome your comments, insight, and information. We are in the midst of the December to Remember Sales Event and encourage you to visit McGrath Lexus of Chicago Web Site for Special Lease information and the complete Lexus line-up. You will find all of our pre-owned inventory here and at Chicago Pre-Owned . Also, click here for Pre-Owned Specials ! We look forward to hearing from you and we wish everyone a Happy and Joyous Holiday Season!

Lexus Earns Four Segment Awards in J.D. Power and Associates 2011 Initial Quality Study

July 21st, 2011

Lexus Earns Four Segment Awards in J.D. Power and Associates 2011 Initial Quality Study

Lexus Leads All Nameplates in Study
Toyota Moves Up 14 Positions
Production Facilities Earn Two Platinum and One Silver Plant Quality Awards

Toyota Motor Sales TMS U.S.A. Inc. received a combined four segment awards in the 2011 J.D. Power and Associates Initial Quality Study IQS. Lexus earned the honor as the highest ranking nameplate in the industry, while the Toyota Division moved up 14 positions to place seventh.

We are quite pleased with the quality improvements Toyota and Lexus have made over the last year and Lexus’ highest position overall in the 2011 IQS, said Jim Lentz, TMS president and chief operating officer. Lentz continued, “We are committed to the quality and dependability of our products.”

Lexus LS Places First for the Fourth Straight Year
Lexus ranked highest among all nameplates in the 2011 IQS with 73 problems per 100 vehicles PP100. Lexus has ranked highest in the IQS study in 13 of the last 22 years, beginning with the brand’s first model year in 1990.

Lexus captured four segment awards in this year’s study, more than any other premium brand. These awards include the Lexus ES 350 for Entry Premium car; the Lexus GS for Midsize Premium Car; the Lexus GX 460 for Midsize Premium Crossover/SUV; and the Lexus LS 460 for Large Premium Car. The Lexus GS and GX 460 rank highest in their respective segments for a third consecutive year. The Lexus LS earned the distinction of highest-performing model in the industry for a second consecutive year with fewest quality problems in the industry, with just 54 PP100.

Toyota Takes Major Leap Forward
The Toyota Division made significant advancements in this year’s study recording 16 fewer problems per 100 vehicles, enabling the brand to return to the top 10 among all nameplates. The marked improvement was a team effort with most models registering improved scores over last year. The Corolla, Prius, Tacoma, Tundra, Venza, RAV4 and Sequoia all earned double-digit score improvements.

Production Facilities Earn Top Honors
Two Toyota production facilities took the most prestigious Platinum Plant Quality Awards tie while one facility received a Silver award tie. Both the Kyushu 2, Japan plant IS line, ES 350, RX line and Cambridge South, Ontario, Canada plant RX line were honored with the Platinum Award with 24 PP100 each. This is the first Platinum award for the Cambridge South, Ontario facility. The Kyushu 1 plant Highlander, RX line earned the Silver award with 27 PP100.

Toyota Segment Honors Chart
Model
IQS Segment
Problems per 100
Lexus LS 460
Large Premium Car
54
Lexus ES 350
Entry Premium Car
56
Lexus GS
Midsize Premium Car
67
Lexus GX 460
Midsize Premium Crossover.SUV
79

The CT Remix Program

April 13th, 2011

New campaign designed to reflect Lexus unconventional and dynamic new CT 200h

As part of its multifaceted advertising and media campaign for the new CT 200h, Lexus is debuting the CT Remix program, designed to introduce the CT to people who are inspired by music in their daily lives. As the most fuel efficient luxury vehicle, the CT 200h defies preconceived notions of what a hybrid can be. With its sleek design, dynamic handing, and four power modes, the CT is a unique luxury vehicle that appeals to a new audience.

One of the key goals was to reach young consumers with a soundtrack that would resonate with their musical tastes, said Dave Nordstrom, Lexus vice president of marketing. We reached out to the top writers, producers and remixers in the industry and asked them for music that reflects what is happening in today’s musical scene.

The goal of the CT Remix program is to allow consumers to embrace the music of the CT campaign with ringtones and music downloads from some of the nation’s most notable DJs and/or producers such as GRAMMY award winning producer Alex Da Kid Eminem, LA Riots Lady Gaga, Dave Aude Rihanna, Bones Domingo, DJ Nesty Don Omar and Derek Bramble David Bowie.

This was the first time a company has ever reached out to me to create something unique that would support their advertising, and I wanted to produce something that was a bit more in your face, more aggressive, said Bramble of the direction he took with his remix. I really wanted the track to pop and jump off the screen.

At the foundation of the CT Remix initiative lives the music that is featured in each of the four campaign commercials titled, Challenge Alex Da Kid, Forge Bones Domingo, Escape Derek Bramble and Details DJ Nesty.

I was excited to be a part of the project, because I felt like Lexus was undergoing a transformation, explained Nesty. I thought to myself, I need to be a part of this revolution. And, when they offered me the chance to be a part of the remix project, I knew this was the icing on the cake. I’m in

Each piece of original music was created by relevant DJs/producers for Lexus’ audience, while bringing to life the CT’s unconventional and uncompromising qualities. In keeping with this strategy, the CT Remix called for these original tracks to then be remixed by the likes of LA Riots, Dave Aude, Dummy Boy Rick and Bones Domingo, who created a track featuring lyrics by rapper Najee.

There are so many talented people on this project, and I really applaud Lexus for taking such big risks it obviously paid off, said famed producer Bones Domingo. I don’t think I had ever thought of Lexus in that way before this campaign.

The CT Remix program is as fully integrated as the entire marketing campaign itself. Each remixed track will be distributed to world renowned Dance DJs to further reach the CT audience where they live; these DJs will be serviced via specially designed USB sticks, hand to hand promotion and MP3s. In addition to this element, there will be experiential, digital, social and PR extensions to the CT Remix program. All of the tracks will be packaged and made available on iTunes, Amazon mp3, Zoon, emusic, thumbplay and Nokia, among others.

2011 is the biggest year for dance music, said Aude, a veteran DJ and Remixer for the likes of Lady Gaga. It’s great to see a luxury brand that is tapping into the very pulse of what is going on in America right now. I’m proud to have worked on such a breakthrough project.

For more information on the CT Remix program visit www.lexusctremix.com

Exclusive Lexus Culinary Team to Debut at Pebble Beach Food & Wine

March 31st, 2011

Six World-Renowned Chefs to Partner with Luxury Automaker

In a first of its kind, Lexus is teaming up with six of the worlds most distinguished chefs as it unveils its Lexus Culinary Masters team. The team will partner with Lexus on multiple initiatives, including Lexus customer appreciation programs, charitable outreach, and multimedia productions. Details on future programs will be announced later this year.

The Lexus Culinary Masters debut lineup includes
Chef Daniel Boulud – Chef/Owner of several restaurants, including DANIEL
Chef Michael Chiarello – Chef/Owner, Bottega
Chef Dean Fearing – Chef/Partner, Fearing’s Restaurant
Chef Christopher Kostow – Executive Chef, The Restaurant at Meadowood, Meadowood Resort Napa Valley
Chef Masaharu Morimoto – Chef/Owner of Morimoto restaurants
Chef Michael Symon – Chef/Owner of several restaurants, including Lola Bistro

We know epicurean pursuits are a passion point for our customers, and we have a well-established history of aligning with premier food and wine events, auctions, associations and institutions, said Dave Nordstrom, Lexus vice president of marketing. However, partnering with this extraordinary group of chefs is an entirely fresh approach. We will ask our culinary team members to advise us and help create highly innovative programs—from owner benefits, to entertainment, to philanthropic endeavors.

I’m honored to be part of such an elite culinary team, working with a company who shares our passion for perfection, said Michael Chiarello, acclaimed founder of Bottega, culinary entrepreneur, cookbook author, winemaker and Emmy award-winning television personality. I’m looking forward to helping shape future programs as part of the team, as well as lend my lifestyle expertise to various programs and charitable opportunities.

Masaharu Morimoto, Iron Chef and international restaurateur added, As a chef, my life mission is to create a memorable dining experience for my guests. I’m thrilled to be working with the Lexus Culinary Masters to collectively partner with Lexus in creating similar memorable experiences for their customers.

Debut Appearance
The Lexus Culinary Masters team will convene next month for their first joint appearance at the prestigious Fourth Annual Pebble Beach Food & Wine festival, April 28 – May 1, 2011, where Lexus is returning as a Sponsor. Boulud, Chiarello, Fearing, Kostow, Morimoto and Symon will entertain event attendees at Lexus Presents—Taste Perfection with Louis Roederer Cristal, at 10 a.m. PT, Friday, April 29. The chefs will each prepare small bites inspired by one of six tastes: sweet, sour, bitter, salty, spicy and umami.

As a premier Pebble Beach Wine & Food sponsor, Lexus is known for hosting some of the festival’s most highly coveted, sold-out events. This year follows suit as the automaker hosts the inaugural Lexus Presents–REMIX: A New Spin on Haute Cuisine with Champagne Krug. Fine dining will converge with pop culture as guests savor Lexus Culinary Masters-prepared fare with Krug’s finest champagne pairings and music from DJ Mom Jeans aka Danny Masterson.

Other Lexus-sponsored Pebble Beach Food & Wine events include the Lexus Chef’s Table Lunch Featuring Michael Chiarello and Graham Elliot, as well as two famed Lexus Grand Tasting Events—a must-eat, must-see gathering of gourmands where guests enjoy unparalleled access to 25 world-renowned chefs serving samples of their cuisine along with 200 premium wineries pouring more than 500 vintages.

About Lexus
Lexus is the leading luxury automaker in the United States. With its reputation for high-quality products and exemplary customer service from its 229 dealers, Lexus has been the top-selling luxury automaker for eleven years in a row. In addition, Lexus is the luxury hybrid leader, offering five hybrids that provide the best in innovative technology and first-class luxury. When Lexus was established in 1989, it offered two models of vehicles. Now, more than 20 years later, Lexus offers variations of 10 vehicles, from the sporty CT 200h hybrid to the V10 supercar, the LFA.

About Pebble Beach Food & Wine
In its first year, Pebble Beach Food & Wine became the largest luxury food and wine event on the West Coast. Created by Coastal Luxury Management, based in Carmel, Calif., This four-day celebration will bring together more than 70 prominent chefs and 250 acclaimed wineries and distinguished winemakers from around the world to the iconic Pebble Beach Resorts for a first-class display of epicurean splendor and unrivaled access. In addition to cooking demonstrations led by the most talented chefs from around the globe and vertical tastings from the world’s top wine producers, unique experiences added each year make this a must-see annual event for culinary enthusiasts and wine aficionados the world over.

Ticket prices per person range from $100 for a single event pass to $4,750 for a VIP four-day pass, with access to all events and exclusive after-hour parties with the chefs and winemakers, as well as Lexus transportation to and from events. To purchase tickets to Pebble Beach Food & Wine, or for more information on ticket packages, visit www.pebblebeachfoodandwine.com or call 1-866-907-FOOD (3663).

Arriving this month to McGrath Lexus of Chicago the ALL New Lexus CT200h

March 2nd, 2011

The CT 200h is the fifth hybrid model to join the Lexus lineup and is scheduled to arrive at McGrath Lexus of Chicago mid March 2011. With the arrival of the all-new CT 200h premium hybrid compact, Lexus introduces a vehicle that breaks the mold of conventional hybrids. It delivers what many thought was impossible, a hybrid with sporty, sexy styling, dynamic handling, best in class mileage and all the luxury of a Lexus.

To launch the CT, Lexus is embarking on one of the largest marketing campaigns in the brand’s history. The multi-faceted campaign, which breaks today, features pioneering computer-generated (CG) creative and unconventional media executions. The CT is unlike any vehicle Lexus has ever launched. The marketing campaign’s media extensions were designed to follow suit.

In addition to traditional elements, Lexus has entered into several unique partnerships, including an alignment with YouTube to sponsor “Girl Walks Into a Bar,” the world’s first feature film developed exclusively for online distribution. The automaker has also joined forces with Microsoft to develop a custom branded entertainment series entitled, “Fresh Perspectives.” The documentary style series features six artists, each commissioned to create three original pieces of work within 24 hours and inspired by the themes of Enrich, Escape and Empower.

The campaign also includes sole sponsorship of USA Network’s Characters Film Series, premier sponsor of the MOG @ SXSW 2011 event, and a Lexus X Monocle custom CT keepsake insert.To reach tech savvy customers, Lexus is utilizing the iPad to extend high profile sponsorships across digital, print and broadcast partners. Partnerships include exclusive launch sponsorship of Gear Patrol and IndustryAndCollective.com, ABC full episode player, Interview April Issue, Wired May issue and ESPN The Magazine. In addition to iPad sponsorships, Lexus has secured syndication rights with key media partners such as Vogue, Complex, MSN, USA Network, Current TV, Rolling Stone and Urban Daddy, which will allow Lexus to feature co-branded and publisher produced content on the dedicated CT iPad application. Lexus will run print ads within publications such as Monocle, Wired, Details, Rolling Stone, Interview, Fader and Flaunt. Some of the ads will provide opportunities for readers to download exclusive music by some of the most cutting-edge DJs and music producers. There will also be out-of-home perm boards in 11 markets and eco-friendly custom outdoor murals in five urban markets, in addition to homepage takeovers on ESPN, Urban Daddy, Pandora and Daily Beast. Lexus will also deploy social media strategies in support of several of the campaign extensions.The broadcast commercials begin airing tonight during prime, late night, cable and sports, with Lexus airing in animation on FOX for the first time ever. Additionally, the commercials will run during NCAA Basketball, NHL Hockey and the NFL Draft pre show, as well as on full episode players on Hulu, NBC, CBS, FOX and ABC. The spots can also be viewed on www.YouTube.com/lexusvehicles.

Toyota and Lexus Dominate ‘2011 Best Overall Value of the Year Awards’ from IntelliChoice

February 10th, 2011

Toyota Leads All Brands With Seven Awards Lexus Leads All Luxury Makes Taking Four Trophies

SAN FRANCISCO, February 5, 2011–Seven Toyota vehicles and four Lexus models today took the top spot in IntelliChoice’s 2011 Best Overall Value of the Year (BOVY) Awards at the 2011 National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA) convention here. With 21 total awards handed out, Toyota and Lexus combined garnered over half of the trophies presented with 11 top honors.

“Dominating the IntelliChoice’s 2011 Best Overall Value Awards is another example of how Toyota and Lexus continue to produce vehicles that retain their outstanding value,” said Don Esmond, senior vice president of Automotive Operations for Toyota Motor Sales, USA. “In a tough economy, finding a dependable vehicle that also holds its value over an extended period is one of the most important aspects of buying a new car.”

IntelliChoice determines the winners of the BOVY Awards based on the top vehicles in 21 categories that represent the best overall value. Each winner is determined by analysis of ownership costs, including depreciation, maintenance, repairs, fuel, fees, financing and insurance.

How To Get Genuine Lexus Parts Installed Not Aftermarket On Your Lexus

December 10th, 2010

The process for having a vehicle repaired with original Lexus parts starts with your insurance policy. You may be provided a list of “approved repair” facilities, which have relationships with the insurance provider to give discounts, but you have the final say in where you will have your vehicle repaired.

Insurance Request For OEM Lexus Parts:
Look at your policy, read it carefully, it will describe the type of coverage you are subscribing to. You may have the ultimate decision of where your Lexus is repaired, but be sure to confirm whether you can request that only Lexus factory parts are used.

Warranty Coverage After Repairs:
You will want to contact your Lexus Dealer to ensure that the warranty will remain after service and repairs are made without the repair work performed at your Lexus Dealership.

Insurance Request For OEM Lexus Parts:
When you speak with your insurance agent or claims adjuster, be sure to request that you would like OEM Lexus Parts only. Lexus suggests that only Genuine Lexus Parts are used to ensure the vehicle can be returned to a pre-loss condition.

Select An Insurance Company Will Authorize OEM Parts:
A reputable insurance company will comply with that request, and here is a document you may reference if needed from Lexus regarding the use of original equipment Lexus parts.

Download this PDF Document: Lexus Requesting Original Lexus Parts

The use of Alternative Parts:
Due to the sensitive nature of the safety and performance systems and lack of testing to determine their effect on vehicle crashworthiness, Lexus does not recommend the use of alternative parts for the repair of Lexus vehicles.

This includes:
Aftermarket Parts: Parts manufactured and branded by a company other than Lexus ␣ Rebuilt Parts: Exterior sheet metal parts (including bumpers and wheels) removed from a damaged Lexus vehicle and refurbished for re-sale.
Salvage/Recycled Parts: Parts removed from a previously damaged vehicle, cleaned up and then installed on a different vehicle.

Toyota, Scion, Lexus Post Sharp Increases in Online Consumer Interest

November 18th, 2010

Toyota, Scion, Lexus Post Sharp Increases in Online Consumer Interest
The National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA) reports that Toyota brand vehicles account for 3 of the top 5 increases in consumer online lookups in recent data. Scion ranked 1st, up 249%; Toyota ranked 4th, up 103%; and Lexus ranked 5th, up 99%. Jeep and Smart ranked 2nd and 3rd, respectively. The data is drawn from NADAguides.com unique lookups and indicate trends in consumer interest.

Lexus and the Council of Fashion Designers of America Announce Inaugural Eco Fashion Challenge Honorees

November 11th, 2010

November 10, 2010 — Lexus and the Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA) have collaborated to celebrate and support sustainable fashion design by establishing the Eco Fashion Challenge. With a goal of increasing sustainable practices in the fashion industry, Lexus and the CFDA have created the Challenge as a platform to support and recognize the industry’s leaders in sustainable design.

From ten finalists, three designers have been selected to receive support from Lexus for their Fall 2011 show or presentation in February 2011. The three receiving the Eco Fashion Challenge crown are:

Monique Péan
Costello Tagliapietra
Maria Cornejo

“It was hard to select only three winners from the ten amazing finalists,” says Andrea Lim, Lexus events marketing manager. “Lexus is proud to support the efforts of the selected designers as they work to bring sustainability into the fashion industry.”

The ten finalists included Alabama Chanin, Behnaz Sarafpour, Costello Tagliapietra, Libertine by Johnson Hartig, Marcia Patmos, Maria Cornejo, Monique Péan, Organic by John Patrick, Slow and Steady Wins the Race by Mary Ping, Subversive Jewelry by Justin Giunta.

To qualify as a finalist, each designer had to demonstrate a commitment to ecologically responsible design and production practices, with a minimum of 25% of their collection being produced in an environmentally friendly manner. The judges selected the three honorees based on design credibility, business acumen, and eco-commitment, with attention paid to eco fabrics, materials, processes, and packaging.

“The CFDA is thrilled with the response from designers to this Challenge,” said Steven Kolb, CFDA executive director. “The proposals that the ten finalists submitted were truly thoughtful and creative. We look forward to seeing the collections of the winning three designers.”

The honorees were announced at the Eco Fashion Challenge event on November 9, 2010 at Skylight West in NYC, a newly renovated event space located steps from Midtown, which provided the perfect venue to celebrate fashion, design, and sustainability.

About Lexus
Lexus is the leading luxury automaker in the United States. With its reputation for high-quality products and exemplary customer service from its 228 dealers, Lexus has been the top-selling luxury automaker for ten years in a row. In addition, Lexus is the luxury hybrid leader with five hybrid vehicles that provide the best in innovative technology and first-class luxury. When Lexus was established in 1989, it offered two models of vehicles. Now, more than 20 years later, Lexus offers variations of 11 vehicles, from the entry-level IS 250 to its first V10 supercar, the LFA.

About the CFDA
The Council of Fashion Designers of America, Inc, (CFDA) is a not-for-profit trade association that leads industry-wide initiatives and whose membership consists of more than 370 of America’s foremost womenswear, menswear, jewelry, and accessory designers. In addition to hosting the annual CFDA Fashion Awards, which recognize the top creative talent in the industry, the organization offers programs which support professional development and scholarships, including the CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund, the Geoffrey Beene Design Scholar Award, the Liz Claiborne Scholarship Award, and the CFDA/Teen Vogue Scholarship. Member support is provided through the Business Services Network, a high-profile group of companies offering designers strategic opportunities. The CFDA Foundation, Inc. is a separate, not-for-profit organized to mobilize the membership to raise funds for charitable causes. Through the Foundation, the CFDA created and manages Fashion Targets Breast Cancer; raises funds for HIV/AIDS organizations with 7th on Sale; addresses the issue of model health with The CFDA Health Initiative; and is a key participant in other programs such as the annual Fashion’s Night Out. For more information, please visit www.CFDA.com.

Consumer Reports’ Most Reliable Cars-Lexus Among Most Reliable

November 4th, 2010

Despite recent safety recalls, Toyota models, including those from Scion and Lexus, remained among the most reliable and earned top scores in five vehicle categories. Findings are based on responses about 1.3 million vehicles owned or leased by subscribers to Consumer Reports or its Web site. Here at Lexus, our top priority is you: your safety, your confidence in our products and providing you with the highest level of service.
Read more on the Consumer Reports findings by visiting: http://yhoo.it/aLKTt3

McGrath Lexus of Chicago Customer Paul Tolson Gives RX450h an Aggressive and Clean Look at 2010 SEMA Show

October 29th, 2010

Lexus marks its return to the 2010 SEMA Show with another impressive selection of exciting custom build cars following its official debut at the 2007 show. As the only luxury maker to offer five hybrid vehicles, Lexus is celebrating the launch of the all-new 2011 CT 200h. This year, Lexus will feature six electrifying hybrid vehicles at its exhibit. McGrath Lexus of Chicago customer Paul Tolson takes Lexus’ most popular luxury hybrid model, the RX450h, and gives it an aggressive and clean look with its VIP-styled theme. With a Hired Gun Paint Werk wide body conversion and Leon Hardiritt Vertu wheels, this isn’t your typical suburban family ride.

Vehicle Highlights: Leon Hardiritt Vertu wheels, 21×10-inch front with-4offset, 21×12-inch rear with +9 offset, Air Runner Integrated suspension systems, Hired Gun Paint Werks wide body conversion, Rotora RFK Series 6-piston custom color caliper, 355mm x32mm 2-piece drilled and slotted rotors.

http://pressroom.toyota.com/pr/tms/lexus/2010-sema-show-lexus-rx-450h-paul-177641.aspx