Kunes Car Convos: Exploring Toyota’s Legacy with Jarvis Hardges, aka Mr. Toyota

Welcome to another engaging episode of Kunes Car Convos, where we dive into the stories, insights, and innovations behind the automotive brands you love. Today, we’re riding in style with Jarvis Hardges—better known as "Mr. Toyota." Jarvis, a lifelong Toyota enthusiast and community leader, shares his passion for Toyota’s legacy and its exciting future.

In This Episode of Kunes Car Convos

• 2:01 – Jarvis shares his proudest achievements
• 7:29 – Jarvis reflects on his role as a deacon and how his faith shapes his career in car sales.
• 10:56 – Supporting the local community
• 16:33 – Full-circle moments, like living in a house owned by a childhood friend and hearing stories about his former home.
• 27:00 – Jarvis’s reflections on Galesburg’s history, growth, and sense of community.

For this episode, Jarvis was driving in the 2025 Toyota Crown Platinum, a luxurious hybrid that blends performance with cutting-edge technology. With its sleek design and advanced features, it’s easy to see why Toyota is redefining what a hybrid can be.

"Driving the Crown is like gliding into the future," Jarvis remarked. "It’s not just about getting from point A to point B—it’s about enjoying every moment of the journey."

Jarvis’s roots run deep in Galesburg, Illinois. Born and raised in this tight-knit community, he credits a supportive "village" of family, friends, and mentors for shaping his life and career.

From high school accolades as a Homecoming King, All-American athlete, and prom royalty to his current role as a deacon at Second Baptist Church, Jarvis embodies leadership and service. "I’ve always believed in giving back," he shared. "And Toyota’s commitment to the community aligns perfectly with my own values."

As "Mr. Toyota," Jarvis knows the brand inside and out. During our ride, he highlighted some of Toyota’s standout models:

• Toyota RAV4: A versatile SUV perfect for families and adventurers alike.
• Toyota Tacoma: A rugged midsize truck built for off-road enthusiasts.
• Toyota Prius: The hybrid pioneer that keeps evolving with the times.
• Toyota Crown: Redefining luxury with hybrid performance and sleek design.

"Toyota’s lineup is as diverse as the people who drive them," Jarvis noted. "There’s truly a Toyota for everyone."

Jarvis shared Toyota’s holistic approach, emphasizing its commitment to innovation, sustainability, and community. "The Toyota Way" revolves around continuous improvement and respect for people—a philosophy that extends to their groundbreaking work in electrification and hydrogen fuel cell technology.

"Toyota’s not just building cars; they’re building a better world," Jarvis said. "From the environment to safety, their vision is about making life better for everyone."

As a deacon, football coach, and lifelong Galesburg resident, Jarvis has become a trusted figure in his community—qualities that translate seamlessly to his role as a Toyota representative at Kunes Auto Group.

"I’m not just selling cars," Jarvis explained. "I’m helping people find vehicles that fit their lives. It’s about making connections and meeting needs."

He also shared stories of Toyota owners who’ve driven their vehicles for hundreds of thousands of miles, proving the brand’s reliability and durability. "Every Toyota has a story," Jarvis said. "It’s those stories that make this job so rewarding."

At Kunes Auto Group, we’re proud to partner with Toyota to bring exceptional vehicles and unparalleled service to our communities. Whether you’re interested in the latest hybrids, trucks, or SUVs, our team is here to help you find your perfect match.

"Working with Kunes is like an extension of Toyota’s values," Jarvis said. "It’s about putting people first and making car-buying a stress-free experience."

Jarvis’s energy and insight are a testament to why Toyota remains a leader in the automotive industry. Ready to explore Toyota’s lineup for yourself? Visit your nearest Kunes Auto Group dealership today, and don’t forget to subscribe for more exciting episodes of Kunes Car Convos.