We would like to share this outstanding organization with you all and invite you to join us in supporting it!

The Live With Hope Festival is an opportunity for the residents of Orlando to enjoy some free family fun. You will have a chance to Give Hope (bring something to giveaway), Get Hope (lots of activities/booths for all ages), and ultimately Live With Hope.

You can find out more about the Live With Hope Festival and where to find an event near you by clicking here!

Toyota Helps Provide “Voice” for Robot Astronaut Headed to Space

A 13.4-inch humanoid robot named Kirobo will soon travel to the International Space Station. The mission: to participate in the first robot-human conversation experiments in space.

To prepare for the trip, the robot participated in zero-gravity and other safety tests. The training, Kirobo says, was tough.

Kirobo is one of two robots developed under the Kibo Robot Project, a collaborative research effort by various agencies. Toyota Motor Corporation provided the voice-recognition software for the robots and plans to use what it learns from the project to improve the company’s partner robots and interactive conversation technology.

And perhaps the trip will help fulfill Kirobo’s dream, “to create a world where humans and robots can live together.”

Courtesy of Toyota USA Newsroom

(4.6) Star Review on DealerRater

• "Excellent experience. They did not even try to sell me the truck, they just let the truck and their friendly attitude do the talking!" -hoovie87

What do race built sail boats and the LFA have in common?

Innovative design and the integration of carbon fiber to produce a lighter, faster, and more performance driven product!  Coming up on July 4th the America's Cup Race will take place in San Francisco and is certain to offer an incredible spectacle.  The dedication of the teams, superior quality in design of the ships, and devotion to excellence are all values which the America's Cup Race shares with Lexus.

A very big thank you to the author of this outstanding review! Keep up the excellent work, Dominic!

(5) Star Review on DealerRater

• "I feel like I am Dominic's only customer! He is efficient yet spends time explaining options." -lagee1

Toyota Boosting Manufacturing Investment in Alabama, Missouri and Tennessee

ERLANGER, Ky. (June 20, 2013) – Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing North America, Inc. (TEMA), announced today that its Alabama engine plant and Bodine Aluminum casting plants will invest a combined $200 million to boost machining capacity and engine parts production for V6 engines.

Today’s announcement represents Toyota’s ninth manufacturing investment in North America over the past two years that now totals more than $2 billion.  The result of this new investment is more than 4,000 new jobs solidifying Toyota’s commitment to designing, developing and assembling vehicles in the region.

Toyota’s Alabama engine plant’s $150 million investment in this project represents its fifth significant new investment since it began operations a decade ago.  Toyota Alabama’s total investment will be $850 million once the machining project is complete by July 2015.

As previously announced, Toyota Alabama will hire approximately 125 upon completion of its current $80 million V6 engine assembly expansion by early 2014; its total employment will be 1,150.  Annual engine capacity will be nearly 750,000 units.

Toyota Alabama currently assembles 4-cylinder, V6 and V8 engines for eight of 12 Toyota vehicles assembled in North America.  It is the only Toyota plant globally to produce these three types of engines under one roof.

Bodine Aluminum, wholly-owned by Toyota Motor Corporation and a manufacturer of casting parts, will invest $50 million and create a total of 40 new jobs at its plant in Troy, Mo., and 10 new jobs at its plant in Jackson, Tenn., to provide cylinder heads and blocks to Toyota Alabama.  Bodine’s total investment will top $650 million and will employ nearly 1,100 at its three locations once the machining project begins.

In addition to Toyota Alabama, Bodine also provides cylinder heads and blocks to Toyota’s engine manufacturing facilities in Kentucky and West Virginia.

“Today’s investment of $200 million into three separate Toyota facilities demonstrates Toyota’s commitment to North America and our localization efforts,” said Osamu “Simon” Nagata, president and CEO of TEMA.  ”Our committment to our local communities where we produce engines, engine parts and vehicles has never been stronger thanks to our team members and their continued focus on safety, quality and continuous improvement.”

“Toyota Alabama continues to play a key role in our efforts to build engines in the region for our loyal customers,” said Jim Bolte, president of Toyota Alabama.  “This vote of confidence gives our team members and community partners added motivation as we move towards our vision of becoming the most admired company in the state.”

“Bodine’s 100 years as a successful American manufacturer is a direct result of our exceptional workforce in Missouri and Tennessee,” said Bob Lloyd, president of Bodine.  “We look forward to serving our customer in Alabama, and ultimately, our loyal customers who drive Toyotas every day.”

Courtesy of Toyota USA Newsroom

Lexus LS Flagship Luxury Sedan Leads Industry in J.D. Power and Associates 2013 Initial Quality Study

TORRANCE, Calif., June 19, 2013 – The Lexus LS flagship luxury sedan receives the highest score among all models in the industryin the 2013 J.D. Power and Associates Initial Quality Study (IQS) with 59 problems per 100 vehicles (PP100).  This is the sixth year in a row the LS has had the highest score in the industry.

The LS was redesigned for the 2013 model year with dynamic, fresh styling that gives it a greater road presence and stronger brand identity while heralding a significant improvement in driving dynamics, responsiveness and handling.  The most technologically advanced vehicle in the Lexus lineup, the LS features an array of safety features, including the industry’s most advanced Pre-Collision Safety System (A-PCS).  The LS had May 2013 sales of 996 units, up 117.9 percent on both a volume and DSR basis compared to the same period last year.

Production Facilities Received High Honors
The Lexus production facilities also took Plant Assembly Line Quality Awards.  The Yoshiwara, Japan plant (LX 570) was honored with the Gold Plant Assembly Line Quality Award, while the Kyushu 2, Japan plant (IS line, ES line, RX line) received a Silver Plant Assembly Line Quality Award.

Lexus Delivery and Technology Specialists Continue to Elevate the Customer Experience
In today’s fast-paced, connected world, customers demand the latest and greatest advanced technology features in their vehicles.  This has challenged all automakers to make these features as safe and user-friendly as possible.  In 2012, Lexus made a major proactive move to stay ahead of the technology education game with the establishment two new dealership positions - Lexus Delivery Specialists and Lexus Technology Specialists.  Lexus Delivery Specialists customize new car deliveries according to the wants, needs and time preferences of the new owner.  Lexus Technology Specialists have no sales responsibilities and are dedicated to helping Lexus guests get the most out of their on-board technology.  Lexus Technology Specialists are available by appointment or walk-in at Lexus dealerships nationwide.

Courtesy of Lexus USA Newsroom

A very sincere thank you to the author of this wonderful review! Keep up the great work, Jose!

(5) Star Review on DealerRater

• "From the purchase of my RX 330 to the servicing, I have received nothing but exceptional service." -alphonsoh1

Our sincerest thanks to Thomas for this wonderful review! Keep up the great work, CJ!

(5) Star Review on DealerRater

• "When I was distressed by the situation, they took care of my car and me. I would highly recommend CJ Kinch and the Lexus dealership!" -Thomas R.

Best of Luck to Everyone June 15th at the Holy Family Golf Classic at Disney's Osprey Ridge!

Lexus of Orlando is a sponsor of the 2013 Holy Family Golf Classic being held at Disney's Osprey Ridge Golf Course. We are providing two (2) Lexus CT 200h Hybrids as "Hole in One" prizes! The roster is full and they are expecting a great tournament. We wish everyone a great day and the best of luck!

Casselberry to host father-daughter dance

by Marisa Ramiccio | June 05, 2013

With Father's Day around the corner, families are already planning how they want to spend the day with Dad. For little girls, these plans can now include dancing, games, contests and making memories with dear old Dad.

The city of Casselberry is hosting a Father's Day Daddy Daughter Dance for little girls ages 5 to 12 on June 15. The dance will be from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the Casselberry Recreation Center on 200 N. Triplet Drive.

Activities include a girls' dance contest with music from a DJ and door prizes. Guests will also receive free photos from a professional photographer as well as food and drinks.

The cost of attendance is $20 per father-daughter pair. Each additional daughter will get in for an extra $5. The dress code is casual, but dressy. Space is limited, so registration is required.

For information or to register, contact Mario Algarin at 407-262-7700 ext. 1576 or at malgarin@casselberry.org.

© 2013 Seminole Chronicle

Check Out the Lexus College Graduate Program at Lexus of Orlando Today!

Congratulations, college grad! You’ve earned your degree and now are ready to take on the world. We want to help you get started in a new or Certified Pre-Owned Lexus. If you’ve obtained a degree within the last two years, you may qualify for the Lexus College Graduate Finance Program, featuring a $1,000 reward toward the lease or purchase of select new Lexus vehicles through your Lexus dealer and Lexus Financial Services (LFS). Come see us at www.LexusofOrlando.com to learn more and get started on the next chapter of your success!

Don't Forget Your Father's Day Gift Certificates for Service from Lexus of Orlando!

Remember to get your Father’s Day Gift Certificates for service from Lexus of Orlando! After all, you can’t use a Father’s Day tie for vehicle maintenance, parts & accessories, detailing … well, maybe detailing, but who wants to do that? For more information, contact our Service Facility at 800.481.8709 today.

Don't Let This Certified 2010 Lexus GS 350 Slip Away! Come See It at Lexus of Orlando Today!

This gorgeous Certified 2010 Lexus GS 350 is waiting for you to come drive it home from Lexus of Orlando today! Don't pass this opportunity by - click HERE to see all the details and the Internet price right now.

The Heat is On for the Miami Heat Tomorrow Night in San Antonio - Rally Time!

The Miami Heat are playing tomorrow night in San Antonio - let's rally behind them to tie the series up!

A Race Against the Clock and the Course

Bring it on! Ken Gushi lets loose on what he learned from running the Lexus IS F CCS-R in last year's Pikes Peak International Hill Climb and his excitement about returning to the hill this year.

The Summer Concert Series has started in New Smyrna Beach!

This summer at Riverside Park on Riverside Drive!

Catch the 2013 Downtown Disney Car Masters Weekend Car Show

Downtown Disney will be having their second annual Car Masters Weekend on Saturday June 15th and Sunday, June 16th, 2013 with the stars of the “Cars” films including Lightning McQueen, Mater, and Finn McMissile taking center stage with over 150 classic, muscle, and exotic cars on display. The event takes place each day from 9 am until 6 pm.

Downtown Disney Car Masters Weekend

Car Masters Weekend is Disney’s only car show of the year that is tied in with Pixar’s Cars and Cars 2 movies. Disney will be showing the original Cars movie and the sequel at the AMC movie theater throughout the weekend and there will be special “Cars” model cars to play with at the Ridemakerz store.

2013 Car Masters Weekend Appearances

Guest appearances at Car Masters Weekend in 2013 will include automotive legend Chip Foose and Disney•Pixar’s Cars filmmaker Jay Ward. Check out the promotional video below!

It's University of Central Florida's 50th Anniversary this year, celebrate along with them!

Florida Technological University officially began on June 10, 1963, when the State Legislature passed Bill No. 125 and Governor Farris Bryant signed it into law: 'An ACT authorizing the state board of education to establish a state university or a branch of an existing state university in the east central part of Florida; defining the area; authorizing the board of control and the state board of education to determine the exact location; providing an effective date.' The act, which took effect July 1, 1963, defined east central Florida as including the counties of Flagler, Orange, Seminole, Lake, Brevard, Volusia, Osceola, Indian River and St. Lucie.

Hey, it's the Wii U Tour at Downtown Disney!

Now through June 23rd, Wii U is at Downtown Disney, showcasing Nintendo's latest console and some of the hottest games! What title are you most excited about?

Another great review of Lexus of Orlando on DealerRater!

"I have never received the service as good as Lexus of Orlando!" -bosnbill

On behalf of all of us at Team Lexus of Orlando thank you for your excellent feedback! Click HERE to see all our great reviews. Like us on Facebook and Follow us on Twitter for exclusives and dealership specials.

Toyota Announces Voluntary Recall of Certain Toyota Prius and Lexus HS 250h Vehicles

TORRANCE, Calif. (June 4, 2013) – Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc., today announced that it will conduct a voluntary safety recall involving approximately 87,000 model year 2010 Toyota Prius and Lexus HS 250h vehicles.

The involved vehicles are equipped with a brake pressure accumulator that may develop a fatigue crack on an internal part due to vibration.  Toyota has had no reports of any accidents or injuries associated with this condition.

Owners of vehicles subject to this recall will receive a notification by first class mail.  The recall remedy will involve inspection of the brake booster pump assembly to see if it is equipped with an involved accumulator.  If so, the dealer will replace the brake booster pump assembly with an improved one at no cost to the customer.

Courtesy of Toyota USA Newsroom

Lexus Partners with Tony Hawk Foundation to Create a Fan Based Decal

TORRANCE, Calif. (June 3, 2013) - From June 3 – 20, 2013, Lexus and the Tony Hawk Foundation will be asking their fans and supporters to be part of a fan based decal that will be featured on the Lexus IS F CCS-R race car competing in Pikes Peak International Hill Climb.  Fans will be able to enter their names via a response to a Lexus Facebook post, a comment to a Lexus YouTube IS F CCS-R video and through Twitter and Instagram using #Lexus14K.  This community-based decal will integrate 14,000 fan names and will be on display at Fan Fest, an annual pre-race celebration held in downtown Colorado Springs on June 28.
 
“Not everyone gets a chance to drive to the top of Pikes Peak, so 14,000 fans can now say they took part in the ride up the hill,” said Brian Smith, Lexus vice president of marketing.  “We are very excited to be partnering with the Tony Hawk Foundation to provide this great opportunity to our fans.”

For the second year in a row, professional driver Ken Gushi, will be at the wheel of the Lexus IS F CCS-R as it competes in the Exhibition Class of Pikes Peak International Hill Climb. The race takes place at Pikes Peak Mountain in Colorado Springs, Colo. on June 30.  Fans will be able to follow @Lexus and #Lexus14K on Twitter for live tweet updates throughout the race.
 

The Pikes Peak International Hill Climb is the second oldest motor sports race in America.  The race is run on 12.42-mile course with 156 turns that begins at 9,390 feet and finishes at the 14,110 foot summit of America’s Mountain, Pikes Peak.

Lexus and the Tony Hawk Foundation believe in giving back to the local communities with an emphasis on supporting and empowering youth.  Lexus supports the Tony Hawk Foundation’s efforts to create high quality, public skate parks in low-income communities across the country.  To assist with its fundraising efforts, Lexus will proudly donate a new 2014 IS sedan to the Tony Hawk Foundation.

Courtesy of Lexus USA Newsroom