Winter Weather Driving Tips

The best thing to do when the roads are icy or snow covered is to avoid driving if possible. However, there are times that we cannot avoid getting out on the roads. In times like this there a few things to consider that might help keep you safe.

First: Be sure to leave in plenty of time so that you can keep your speeds low. Driving slow will not only help you control your vehicle it will also help stopping.

Second: Brake gently to avoid sliding, and if you start to lose traction and slide let off the brake.

Third: Fully remove ice and snow from the windshield and lights. This will give you the best chance of seeing any obstacles and allow others to see you.

Finally: Don’t assume your vehicle is able to handle any road condition. Even if you made a great decision by purchasing one of the safest vehicles made there are conditions that are not suitable for any vehicle. Never pass a snowplow and do not drive through snow banks!

Be safe from Hendrick Lexus Kansas City North!   

Next Generation Lexus CT Coming in 2017?

Dutch newspaper De Telegraaf is reporting that the next-generation CT will be released as a 2017 model.

The timeline apparently comes from a “senior officer of Toyota”, who also confirmed that the CT would continue to share technical components with the Toyota Prius.

While there isn't a lot of news on whether or not there is validity to this rumor, we can all piece together fragments of what it is we think a next-gen Lexus CT would be composed of (and we are letting our imaginations run wild). 

Mini Brown Sugar Cheesecake

Who doesn't love an easy-to-eat-on-the-go treat!? We can't help but rave over these adorable and festive  miniature treats! Looking for the next decadent holiday dessert? We've got you covered.

Ingredients:

1¼ c. graham cracker crumbs
3 tbsp. granulated sugar
¼ tsp. salt
5 tbsp. unsalted butter
1 tsp. unsalted butter
2 package cream cheese
2 large eggs
2 tbsp. fresh lemon juice
1 tbsp. lemon zest
1 tbsp. vanilla extract
1 tsp. ground ginger
1 c. light-brown sugar
½ c. thinly sliced candied ginger

Instructions:

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Meanwhile, in a small bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and salt. Add butter and stir until combined. Spoon about 1 tablespoon mixture into each cup of a buttered 24-cup mini muffin pan; press down to form a solid bottom layer. Bake for about 5 minutes. Transfer pan to a wire rack to cool. Reduce oven to 300 degrees F.

In the bowl of a stand mixer, beat cream cheese until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes. With beater running, add eggs, 1 at a time. Add lemon juice and zest, vanilla, ground ginger, and brown sugar and beat until combined. Divide filling equally among muffin cups and bake until firm, 15 to 20 minutes. Transfer to a wire rack and let cool completely. Refrigerate until set, for at least 4 hours or overnight.

Gently run a knife around the cheesecakes' edges to loosen them, and invert pan to release the cakes. Transfer to a cake stand and garnish with candied ginger.

Gingerbread Cheesecake Dip

Looking for a quick and easy Christmas goodie to bring to your next gathering? Look no further! We have JUST the merry munchie ideas for you!

Ingredients:
1 8-ounce package cream cheese, softened
¼ cup brown sugar
¼ cup powdered sugar, sifted
3 Tablespoons molasses
1 teaspoon ground ginger
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
dash nutmeg
4 oz Cool Whip (or 2 cups freshly whipped cream)
Graham crackers for serving

Instructions:

• Beat the cream cheese until smooth, about 1 minute.
• Add the sugars and molasses and beat on medium speed until smooth and combined, about 1 minute.
• Add the ginger, cinnamon, and nutmeg and mix until combined.
• Add the Cool Whip and beat until combined, about 30 seconds.
• Transfer dip to a serving bowl and chill until ready to serve. Serve with graham crackers. Dip can be stored in an airtight container for up to 1 week in the refrigerator.

The Holiday Reminder

Winter is on our door-step and the holidays are here! 

They can be cozy, fun, and full of cheer!

But we know that the times can go by so fast,

and we can sometimes forget to make every good moment last!

Whether it is shopping for gifts or decorating the tree

or baking some goodies for you or for me,

always remember what the season is about,

and don't let the bustle bring stress and doubt!

We here at Lexus are here to tell you

that soon you'll have a whole year to start anew!

So while you're busy trying to just make it through,

don't forget to cherish the people closest to you. 

The 2016 Lexus RC

We all are huge fans of the Lexus RC (I mean c'mon, how can you not be?) However, do we all know what it is that makes this pearly ride such a rare gem? It could be its super car instrumentation that makes the driver feel ready to take the road at full speed, or it could be the first ever 2.0 liter turbo engine introduced in the 2016 RC line. Maybe it is exclusive F Sport interior that adds to the edge of this racy ride, or it could also be Drive Mode Select that allows your RC to adjust driving modes with the simple turn of a dial. 

There's a number of factors that make the 2016 Lexus RC the best yet, but there is simply nothing that can take the place of a test-drive. We would love to have you in to feel the thrill of the 2016 Lexus RC itself. Don't worry, it won't bite…hard. 

The Lexus NX: Winter's Best Friend

Looking  for a little extra luxury in your life? You've come to the right place! With those harsh winter months on the road ahead, it's time to start planning!! We all know that Kansas City winters can be unpredictable, to say the least, and Hendrick Lexus Kansas City wants to make sure the wheels underneath you have got your back! So test drive our Lexus NX, but we will give you a small tour first!

With a more aggressive design and dynamic handling, the Lexus NX doesn't hold back. With a cozy but spacious interior you'll never want to step out of, you might as well deem this leather-covered inside your favorite winter cabin.

Everything is at your fingertips with a dash-design that is specifically made for ease of use and focus on the road. The analog clock adds to the homey and luxurious interior, perfect for winter travels both near and far.

Wherever you decide to go this winter, don't forget your new favorite winter companion: 

The Lexus NX

Get Your Grub on, KC!

Who doesn't love a good meal deal? We know we do! Take a peek at some of these can't miss restaurant deals in Kansas City and get your grub on!

Want to cash in on these awesome meal-deals (or more)? Click HERE!!

Halloween in KC

Looking to get spooked this weekend? We have got you covered! Whether you are looking to rock that epic costume you can't wait to wear, enjoy eclectic foods or just want to be spooked, the Halloween Massacreade is the place to be! Check out the details:


HALLOWEEN MASSACREADE 
Saturday, Oct. 31st 7:00 PM-11:00 PM

Belvoir Winery
1325 Odd Fellows Road
Liberty, MO 64068

Description:
Kansas City's Premiere Halloween Party in a REAL LIFE haunted asylum, Belvoir Winery (Formerly Odd Fellows Home)! Where better to spend Halloween Night than with real ghosts? The freaks are coming out this year at Halloween Massacreade: Cirque du Macabre!

Attractions include:

• Roaming paranormal magic and misdirection by the nationally reknowned magician Aiden Sinclair (featured on America's Got Talent)
• Horror burlesque and fire performances by Sinful Sideshow
• Palm Reading by Kansas City's Sara Schwab
• Tarot Card reading by Kansas City's Kyle Wilson
• Spirit Guide readings by Kansas City's Caitlin Curry
• Live music by Montage and Live DJ by Platinum Productions
• Local food trucks
• Full cash bars

They are also offering a limited number of tickets that include a Ghost Tour guided by local paranormal group Paranormal Research Investigators! Get these before they sell out!

IMPORTANT: Aiden Sinclair is hosting a VIP Midnight Seance after Halloween Massacreade! This is a seperate ticketed event hosted by Belvoir Winery; get them here! http://www.eventbrite.com/o/belvoir-winery-8422736309?s=43673989

Ages 21+ only. No refunds will be issued. COSTUMES STRONGLY ENCOURAGED!

Don't miss out on this spooky time! Get your tickets now!!

Lexus RC F Competes in Motor Trends Best Driving Car Comparison

The Lexus RC F has finished eighth in the annual Motor Trend Best Driver’s Car comparison test:


Sure, the Lexus’ time is about three ticks off that of last year’s BMW M4 (1:39.69), but it’s still quicker than the Audi RS 5 (1:43.60) and the Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG Edition 507 (1:43.49) that we lapped back in 2013.

Problem is, the Lexus’ speed doesn’t translate to emotion, a much-needed qualifier when ranking contenders for Best Driver’s Car. Per Jonny Lieberman: “I want engagement. I want to be thrilled. What I don’t want is to get out of the car thinking, ‘That’s much faster than I thought.’ That’s the problem with the RC F.”


We (although we may be partial) think that the RC should have come in on top, and we know you will think the same!! Come in for a test drive and decide for yourself!

F Sport Models Make Huge Impact on U.S. Lexus Sales

Automotive News has published some impressive statistics on the success of the Lexus F SPORT models in the USA:

"Through September, 71 percent of all RC coupe buyers this year opted for the F Sport package. About half of GS buyers and IS buyers checked the F Sport box.

And it’s not limited to performance-oriented cars either. Lexus sells 30 percent of its NX compact crossovers with the F Sport kit and 34 percent of its CT 200h hybrid hatchbacks with it."

All told, 77,495 Lexus models have rolled out of dealerships this year wearing the tiny F Sport badges. We happen to love the F Sport models of Lexus in every way shape and form. Whether it be the smooth ride, the sporty and sleek exterior or the futuristic dashboards, what's not to love? There is nothing better than seeing a gleaming new F Sport on the lot, and we know you'd love to see one in your driveway. Why wait? Your impressive dream ride is waiting.

Lexus IS Crafted Using Cardboard Only

What an interesting sight it is, and shockingly beautiful as well! Lexus UK has managed to accurately construct a Lexus IS using ONLY cardboard. It is easy to tell from the picture how much detail clearly went into crafting such a magnificent replica of this one-of-a-kind luxury vehicle. Each cardboard panel had to be individually laser cut and then assembled with glue- and the interior is fully articulated. The entire vehicle took a grand total of three months to build and the attention to detail is absolutely incredible. The cardboard IS was built by Scales and Models, a company from London that builds prototypes. The company stated:

"Each layer was given its own reference number to help ensure it was assembled in the right sequence and the entire assembly was done by hand. A water-based wood glue was used, which had to be left to set for 10 minutes after each application. Accuracy was vital, as changes couldn’t be made once the glue had dried."

All New 2016 Lexus LX

After weeks of social media leaks, the updated 2016 Lexus LX 570 has officially debuted at an event in Pebble Beach.

The update is incredibly comprehensive, from a virtually all-new exterior and interior to upgraded powertrains and technology features. Here’s a breakdown on the most important changes. Only the doors have been carried over from the 2015 model, with the rest of the exterior completely redesigned. Exterior LED lighting is now standard, as are the new 20-inch wheels with a two-tone gray finish. 21-inch wheels are optional. Two new colors have been introduced: Atomic Silver and Nightfall Mica. Carryover colors include Starfire Pearl, Satin Cashmere Metallic, Black Onyx and Nebula Gray Pearl.

Ready to see this in the lots? Keep your eyes peeled!

2015 Lexus GS

Exhilaration. Domination. Pure Vacation. All terms that could be used to pin point the masterpiece that is the 2015 Lexus GS. Classy is so many more ways than one, yet words can do it no justice (we will still try, though.) Whether you're looking at the timeless black, Deep Sea Mica blue or Red Riviera, you are sure to find a shade to match your soul. While we don't expect you to simply take our word for it, we still will strive to paint the picture: A crisp night on the town. Heads turn-people stop and give you the right of way. Celebrity-like treatment, with a touch of extra luxury. Have we got your attention yet?

Adorn Style Show

Who doesn't love feeling glamorous? We know we do, and you should too! We want to personally invite you to attend the Adorn Style Show and Brunch put on by the Harvest Ball Society and sponsored by your local Lexus dealer (that's us)! Purchase tickets to the style show this weekend and enjoy a wonderful brunch alongside a stage with the most up-and-coming fashions! Whether you want a girls getaway or a classy evening with great food, you'll find it at this upscale event! Guests will discover the latest fashion trends presented by professional runway models, enjoy a delicious brunch and experience unique shopping at the marketplace of exclusive boutiques and local merchants. The event is hosted at Bartle Hal on September 19th (that's this weekend!) Here are some of the important times:

9 to 11:30 a.m. Avenue of Shops & Style Lounge by Zona Rosa
11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Brunch, Program and Style Show
1 to 2 p.m. Avenue of Shops & Style Lounge by Zona Rosa

Copy this link to learn more and purchase your tickets:

https://harvestballsociety.org/events/adorn-style-show

We can't wait to see you there!!

Lexus GS 200t

With four-cylinder engines making up to 40% of all Audi and BMW midsize sedan sales in the USA, the release of the Lexus GS 200t and its 2.0L turbo engine has come at an excellent time — from WardsAuto:


“We’re planning to start out in the mid-20% range with the 2.0L turbo, and we will see what the market calls for,” [Lexus corporate marketing manager Brian] Bolain says. “We will see if we need to go up as high as (the Germans) have gone.”


Globally, the segment skews even more aggressively toward 4-cyl. engines.


“In China, for example, sales of vehicles equipped with 2.0L turbo or smaller engines represent over 63% of the sales volume in the segment,” [VP of Marketing Brian] Smith says. “We’re excited this new 241-hp engine will allow us to respond to that strong global consumer demand.”


The GS 200t will produce 241 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, as compared to the Audi A6 2.0T with 252hp and 273 lb-ft of torque and the BMW 528i and its 240hp and 260 lb-ft of torque.


Things are certainly looking up for the GS, with sales growing 10% over the first half of this year. By comparison, the BMW 5-series is down 15%, the E-Class has dropped 36%, and the the CTS is 40% below last year’s sales.


We can't wait to test-drive this one and bring you all of the details. Keep an eye out for this bold new ride to come!!

The Lexus GS F Sport

The GS F, Yaguchi says, is the perfect mix between functionality and craftsmanship. “We had no intention of being crafty for the sake of it,” he says. “Everything in this car is there for a reason.” Here, the GS F comes to a halt on a desert road, revealing its elongated profile.
“This car will stand the test of time,” says Yaguchi, “because it is designed to appeal to the human senses.” Who should drive the GS F ? “Anybody who wants to enjoy driving,” Yaguchi says.

The Lexus GS F is a classy combination of sporty and sleek. It gives the driver the feel of racing the track while just on the way to the store. There is only one way to understand the thrill for yourself: A test drive. Come in today and  have every one of you expectations surpassed.

NX F Sport Wins Compact Crossover Comparison

The Lexus NX 200t F SPORT has taken first place in a Motor Trend compact crossover comparison against the BMW X3 xDrive28i, Land Rover Range Rover Evoque, Lincoln MKC 2.0 AWD, and Volvo XC60 T6:

[The NX] comes well-dressed at the lowest as-tested price, with good cost of ownership and high marks for driving experience, cabin and leather quality, ride and handling balance, efficiency, and safety. And as [MT editor Edward] Loh asserted, its “engine sounds great under wide-open throttle, especially in Sport mode.”
Lexus isn’t for everyone. But if you’re hunting for a compact luxury CUV with the most diverse skill set, look no further than the NX 200t.

This is a strong win against difficult competitors; An excellent win for the new Lexus compact crossover.

The Lexus Hoverboard

Have you heard the hype about the hoverboard? Lexus recently introduced its bind-boggling hoverboard, and here is the recent press release:

Since the Lexus Hoverboard was unveiled in June, testing has been carried out in a specially constructed hoverpark, combining elements from skate culture with technology within its architecture. Up to 200 meters of magnetic track was transported to Barcelona from the Dresden facility to lay beneath the hoverpark surface in order to create the dynamic test, offering Lexus the opportunity to demonstrate tricks no skateboard could ever perform, like traveling across water. Lexus has captured the final ride footage and released it as a film led by award winning director Henry-Alex Rubin.
The Lexus Hoverboard technology features two “cryostats”—reservoirs in which superconducting material is kept at -197 degrees through immersion in liquid nitrogen. The board is then placed above a track that contains permanent magnets. Dr. Oliver de Haas, evico CEO, said: “The magnetic field from the track is effectively ‘frozen’ into the superconductors in the board, maintaining the distance between the board and the track—essentially keeping the board hovering. This force is strong enough to allow the rider to stand and even jump on the board.”

We want to test it out! How about you?

KC Concerts

Summertime is one of the best seasons for concerts. We looked into some of the upcoming concerts in KC that might be of interest in the summer months to come!

Thursday, July 16^th: Tyler Farr

Kansas City P&L District

Friday, July 17^th: The Fray

Starlight Theatre

Saturday, July 18^th: The Temptations

Ameristar Casino and Hotel

Friday, July 24^th: The Floozies

Crossroads, Kansas City.

 Saturday, July 25^th: Robert DeLong

Sporting Park KC

Monday July, 27^th: Lee DeWyze

The Recordbar, Kansas City

4th of July in KC

It’s summer time, fourth of July weekend is almost upon us, and Kansas City has a lot on store! Take a look at the list of 4^th activities KC has for you and your family to enjoy:

Celebrate America

July 3^rd-4^th

10:00 PM

Visit your beloved local theme park, Worlds of Fun, and enjoy the patriotic firework show!

Fireworks and Salute to the Union

July 4^th

4:00 PM-10:00 PM

Union Station

Salute to the Union, food, music, fun & fireworks, 4pm; FRISK classic rock band, 7pm; Salute to the Union, 8:30pm; fireworks at dusk; Merritt Lake, Ft LV, FREE, 913-684-1702/1654 NOTE: U.S. picture ID require upon entering fort.

Parkville July 4^th Celebration

July 4^th

10 AM-10 PM

122 S. Main Street. Parkville, MO. 64152

Bring the entire family for a taste of good old-fashioned Americana! Our traditional salute to Independence Day includes pancakes for breakfast, a community parade, carnival rides, lots of food, fun, games, shopping, music and, of course, the fabulous fireworks finale.

Big Bang 4^th of July Celebration

July 4^th

5:00 PM

Longview Park Shelter #13, 11101 Raytown Rd., Lee's Summit, MO 64086

Join over 20,000 of your friends and neighbors at Jackson County's Big Bang 4th of July Celebration at Longview Lake, featuring Nashville's Blackjack Billy and Walker McGuire.

KC Riverfest 2015

July 4^th

4pm-11pm

Richard L. Berkley Riverfront Park, 1298 Riverfront Dr., Kansas City, MO 64101

Enjoy great rock, alternative, country and ragtime music, delicious food, carnival rides and games, and one of the largest fireworks shows in the area.

2015 RX Hybrid

The 2015 Lexus RX Hybrid combines luxury and efficiency in one sleek, smooth package. The RX F Sport offers bold styling both inside and out to further enhance the energy of its performance features. A power rear door ensures that you don’t have to lift but a finger to put all of your cargo in its place. Hybrid efficiency combines the elements of an advanced hybrid with 295 total system horsepower and 30mpg combined rating.  The rear-seat entertainment system ensures every passenger alike is comfortably ready for the road ahead. Stay in command of your vehicle with voice-command technologies that allow you to control climate and audio, as well as get directions. All weather drive tops-off this perfectly packaged luxury by ensuring you are never unprepared for the road ahead.