This summer we celebrate 50 years of Range Rover. Range Rover was the original luxury 4×4; 50 years on it’s still the benchmark for design, all-terrain capability, and sophisticated refinement.
As we continue the celebration, be sure to tag @JLRDFW on Facebook and Instagram with your Land Rover Photos (past and present) to share stories of Range Rover over the years.
We can’t wait to see what adventure awaits us in the next 50 years.
We have officially begun updating our Lexus Technology How-To videos in case you need any virtual assistance troubleshooting your new Lexus. With the help of our in-house Lexus Technology Specialists, we have identified their most frequently asked questions and demoed their instructions.
Below are our latest updated videos on our Kick-Sensor and how to pair your Android Phone via Bluetooth:
Be sure to subscribe to our YouTube Channel for any new tutorials, video updates, or give us a follow on Instagram and Facebook for more Lexus technology content.
To no one’s surprise, Volvo has accumulated a new set of awards and recognition for their already award-winning line-up. This time their hybrid vehicles received the spotlight, with the 2020 Volvo S90 luxury plug-in hybrid electric vehicle earning a top score and two other awards from AAA.
Volvo Cars S90 Plug-In Hybrid
Over the past year, Volvo has dived deep into the world of electric and plug-in hybrid options and they are intent on challenging other luxury brands. In the new AAA Car Guide, Volvo’s flagship luxury Sedan, the Volvo S90, was recognized for the following titles:
Best Over $50,000
Best Large Vehicle
Best Overall Design
Like its siblings, the XC90 SUV and V90 wagon, the S90 carries the proud and confident face of Volvo’s design language, state-of-the-art connectivity, efficient Drive-E powertrains, safety features, and driver assistance.
Volvo’s City Safety technology, standard on all Volvo models, combines automatic braking functionality and collision avoidance systems to cover a range of potential accident scenarios and help keep you safe. The Pilot Assist driver assistance system, which maintains speed, safe following distance, and driving lane, works up to 80 mph on clearly marked roads.
“We are proud AAA has recognized the S90 for the great car we think it is,” said Anders Gustafsson, Senior Vice President Americas and President and CEO, Volvo Car USA. “As our flagship sedan, the S90 offers the leading-edge technology and design luxury car buyers demand, with all the safety of a Volvo.”
S90 T8 Inscription
The S90 T8 eAWD offers 400 horsepower with an EPA-rated 60 MPGe economy. Pricing starts at $63,845. The 316-horsepower T6 starts at $50,550.
When the Mercedes-Benz GLA was initially released in 2014, the subcompact model was introduced as the SUV sibling of the CLA (the Mercedes-Benz subcompact 4-door coupe). Many GLA drivers also noticed the interior was similar to the now-extinct SUV GLK350 (a model that was last available for new retail in 2015). Thanks to a beautiful exterior makeover, modern interior technologies, and enhanced Mercedes-Benz performance, the new 2021 GLA is out to prove it has a personality of its own.
Rejuvenated Interior Leads GLA Refresh
A slew of new changes is apparent once you enter the new GLA. A standard dual, digital dashboard, which is also available inside most Mercedes-Benz vehicles, finally makes an appearance in the 2021 GLAs. The new, high energy screens replace the analog instrument cluster and pop-up 7-inch monitor that left owners wanting more.
The Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment interface will also be a welcomed sight for 2021 GLA drivers. Voice command prompts to speak with your Mercedes-Benz gives hands-free driving a contemporary experience. The air vents also feature an aviation-style design that provides a cock-pit vibe to the GLA front row.
Our top interior upgrades available with the 2021 GLA include the Premium Package including larger 10-inch displays and a 64-color ambient lighting option that adds some pizazz to your daily drive.
New GLA Showcases Smooth Stance
A big takeaway from our GLA first impressions is how smooth the exterior angles are. When walking up to the 2021 subcompact SUV, you’ll be amazed at how much the profile mirrors other modern, Mercedes-Benz SUVs. Previously, the GLA stood out for its deep side indentions and round curves.
This second-generation does a wonderful job of introducing a subtle side profile with a modern athletic stance.
Not only is the GLA 3.5 inches taller than the previous model, it also sits higher than the CLA and A-Class (the Mercedes-Benz premium compact sedan). Also, a driver can anticipate slight increases to the wheelbase and width vehicle that also gives rear passengers some additional room than previous GLA models.
For those who may be torn between the size and styling profile of the A-Class sedan and GLC SUV, a 2021 GLA is the perfect selection.
Other Notable GLA Details
Drivers should also notice a few more 2021 GLA details:
A shiftier experience thanks to a new 8-speed dual-clutch transmission
More passenger control with new adjustable rear seats
Additional pedal to the medal with 221 horsepower (HP) an increase from 208 HP with the previous generation
Front-wheel drive is the standard for GLA models, however, finding a GLA 4MATIC variant will give you all-wheel-drive control.
Great fuel efficiency from the 2.0L, 4 cylinder engine with an estimated 25 MPG in the city and 34 MPG highway fuel economy
Given the Mercedes-Benz track record for next-generation upgrades, we would not be surprised to see the 2021 GLA become one of the best re-models in the automotive industry. For more details on the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA and potential Mercedes-AMG GLA, contact Park Place Motorcars today.
The history of the Porsche Crest. Focus on horsepower
While the Porsche logo had already been used on the brand’s first vehicle in 1948, the Porsche Crest was not created until 1952.
In March 1951, Porsche launched a competition for German art academies, offering the generous sum of 1,000 Deutsche Markfor the creation of a company logo. However, none of the designs met the management’s expectations. Towards the end of 1951, Ferry Porsche visited New York and was asked for a logo by the American importer Max Hoffman, with the result that work on a logo also started internally within the company.
In early 1952, Franz Xaver Reimspieß, a highly talented designer who had already designed the Volkswagen logo in 1936, created a fantasy crest. It symbolizes the roots of the company and at the same time illustrates the quality and dynamics of its products, with a prancing horse taken from the seal of the city of Stuttgart depicted within the contours of a golden shield. Together with the name of Stuttgart above it, a clear commitment is made to the home of the company, while the surrounding red and black state colors and the stylized antlers are taken from the traditional crest of Württemberg-Hohenzollern. Finally, the Porsche logo forms a protective arch over the entire design.
After registration with the German Patent Office, the Porsche Crest was first seen on the horn button at the end of 1952, before being incorporated into the characteristic hood handle of the Porsche 356 Speedster in November 1954. As of 1959, it also adorned the hubcaps of the Zuffenhausen sports cars and, since then, every Porsche vehicle has featured this seal of quality on its hood.
In the meantime, the copyright-protected Porsche Crest has become one of the most famous trademarks in the world and may only be used commercially with the express permission of Porsche AG.
The Porsche Classic crests: true to the original design and with proven quality
The original Porsche Crest is available from Porsche Classic for a wide range of historic models and is manufactured with special tools according to original drawings. As in period, it is gold-plated and the application of its colors and enameling are performed by hand. Unlike today’s crest, the Porsche logo at that time was only embossed and not also finished in black. In addition, the red color used to tend more towards orange, as in the state colors of Württemberg-Hohenzollern.
In order to meet high-quality standards, the new release of the classic Porsche crest was subjected to extensive testing, including a climatic cycle test carried out at the Porsche Research and Development Centre in Weissach.
Over the years, the Porsche Crest has undergone careful design changes. The crests available through Porsche Classic are differentiated as follows:
From 1954 for the Porsche 356, and from 1964 for the 911 also in another size. For design details, please see Page One.
From 1974, the Porsche logo shines in gold; Stuttgart is embossed on a recessed background and the color in the Porsche Crest radiates a red-transparent glow.
From 1994: the Porsche logo is characterized by slim Black letters. the word Stuttgart is recessed; the Porsche Crest is red-transparent and the horse is portrayed elegantly.
Gold-colored logos: a distinguishing feature of all Heritage Design models
With the gold-colored logos on the rear and on the Targa bar, Porsche is recalling another historic design feature. While the first Porsche models still carried silver-colored logos, they were gold-colored on the rear from the mid-1950s onwards, creating an exclusive appearance.
With the introduction of the Porsche 912 in 1965 and the Porsche 911 T in 1968, the gold-colored logos were gradually replaced by silver and black anodized lettering.
However, the gold-colored logos are now making a return as a distinguishing feature that will embellish all future Heritage Design models.
Park Place Porsche and Porsche Club of America – Maverick Region Celebrate Iconic Brand’s 72nd Anniversary at Keller’s Drive-In
What a difference two years makes. But even in the event-starved Covid-19 era, people long to get together to celebrate the people and things they have in common.
Two years ago, Park Place Porsche Dallas teamed up with the Porsche Club of America – Maverick Region to help clients celebrate the 70th anniversary of the 1948 Porsche 356 “No. 1” Roadster with a “Sportscar Together Day” at the Lemmon Avenue dealership.
This year, the celebration looked very different, but Porschephiles turned out in force on June 8 to catch up and celebrate the 72nd anniversary at Keller’s Drive-In on Northwest Highway in Dallas.
“Porsche drivers are passionate about their cars,” explained Patrick Huston, Park Place Porsche Dallas General Manager. “We couldn’t let this important occasion pass us by. So, we invited the Porsche Club – Maverick group to join us for a great burger and fellowship. Everyone had a great time.”
There were a wide range of Porsches on hand, representing classic models from the 1960s to the new 2020 Porsche Taycan 4S, Porsche’s first hybrid sportscar. The new four-door sports sedan will go from 0-to-60 mph in 2.8 seconds with a top speed of 155 mph and a driving range of up to 200 miles, all with the incomparable handling, dependable quality and world-class styling of the iconic Porsche brand.
Park Place Dealerships was founded in 1987 by Ken Schnitzer with a single Mercedes-Benz dealership in Dallas. For the past 33 years, the company has been engaged in the community supporting the arts, medical research, children’s advocacy and education. Park Place employs more than 1,500 members and operates 18 full-service dealerships representing luxury brands Lexus, Mercedes-Benz, Porsche, Volvo, Jaguar, Land Rover, Koenigsegg, Rolls-Royce, Bentley, McLaren, Maserati and Aston Martin. For more info, visit parkplace.com.
The new 2021 IS, which is expected to arrive in dealerships in late fall of this year, looks to expand upon the legacy it has carved out in the compact luxury sports car segment over the previous two decades. Truly a global vehicle, it will be available for sale in approximately 40 countries around the world, including the US, Japan, and other countries in Asia.
Read more for a quick summary of the new Lexus IS or click here for a full press release from Lexus.
The Development of the Lexus Driving Signature
With the new 2021 Lexus IS, Lexus looked to further cement the bond between driver and vehicle by providing an enhanced linear driving characteristic that provides direct feedback to the driver. But to do this- Lexus Engineers went to work to creat the right tool.
The Toyota Technical Center Shimoyama is key to the focus on the connection between driver and car. This asphalt track signals a change in Lexus’s development course and commitment to their human-centric approach. By using their resources and establishing a uniform Lexus Driving Signature across the entire lineup, the hope is to continue propelling the brand’s evolution and reinforce its identity in the luxury space. The latest IS represents the first step down a path that has evolved into a uniquely Lexus tarmac testbed that will affect the trajectory of every Lexus product that comes next.
“What we had foremost in mind in developing the new IS was to make it a car that excelled in communicating with the driver regardless of the road conditions or driving situation,” said Chief Engineer Naoki Kobayashi of Lexus International. “We aimed to make the new IS a Lexus compact sports sedan that provides high-quality riding comfort while offering a high level of vehicle control.”
Key Performance Upgrades of the New 2021 Lexus IS
Enhanced body rigidity by reinforcing the radiator side supports, increasing the number of front-side-member weld points, and optimizing reinforcement structures to help reduce noise and vibration while also improving riding comfort and driving performance.
Availability with larger 19-inch wheels to improve the corning force. Overall two different 19-inch wheels are available on F SPORT models, including a unique BBS wheel specific to the F SPORTs equipped with the Dynamic Handling Package. Standard 18-inch wheels will replace the outgoing 17-inch wheels on all other models.
Use of Hub Bolts to allow for improved fastening strength and increase rigidity to improve braking and handling. The use of hub bolts sheds about 2 pounds of unsprung weight
F SPORTs will only be offered on the IS 350 powered by the 311-horsepower 3.5-liter V6 engine.
Lower, wider proportions with muscular fenders to enhance and accomodate the larger available 19-inch wheels.
New slender headlamps are fitted on the IS that feature daytime running lights with a sharp L-shape signature that runs across the lateral axis just above the newly developed compact and lightweight lamp units.
There are five new exterior colors available on the 2021 IS, including Iridium, Cloudburst Gray, Matador Red Mica, Infrared*, and Grecian Water.
Apple CarPlay
Enhanced Lexus Safety System+ (LSS+ 2.5)
The rear-wheel drive IS 300 features a 2.0-liter, turbocharged and intercooled inline four-cylinder engine, which is set to deliver 241 horsepower. The IS 300 AWD is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 that delivers 260 hp and 236 lb.-ft. For buyers who crave maximum power, there’s the IS 350 in either rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive powered by a 3.5-liter V6 that produces 311 hp and 280 lb.-ft. of peak torque.
New in the U.S. for model year 2021, the AMG GT 43 4-Door Coupe, starting at $89,900*, further expands the AMG GT family, combining AMG-developed dynamics with everyday usability, seating for four and a more accessible point of entry.
Striking to look at and a powerful drive, the newest AMG GT 43 is being offered at a starting price point to ad dan additional (more accessible) entry point to the Mercedes-AMG family.
Starting at $89,900
The Mercedes-AMG GT 43 is powered by an efficient and intelligent 3.0 liter inline-6 turbo engine, for 362 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque. For an additional 21 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque, the 2021 variant is equipped with an EQ Boost System.
It’s a perfect example of AMG’s compelling driving experience mixed with everyday usability, sporting the key highlights of AMG’s top-tier GT 4-door coupe models like light-weight construction, 4MATIC+ All-Wheel Drive with variable torque distribution, and the distinctive AMG exterior/interior design and aesthetic.
Available Late 2020
The AMG GT 4-door is the third model to be developed directly by Mercedes-AMG, following the 2-door GT and SLS AMG. This new model sports the same high level of standard equipment found in the AMG GT 53, including:
AMG SPEEDSHIFT TCT 9-Speed Transmission
AMG DYNAMIC SELECT drive modes
AMG Ride Control Sport Suspenson
Silver painted 6-piston front brake calipers
Burmester surround sound system
electronically deployable rear spoiler
MBUX infotainment system (newly standard for ’21 AMG GT 4-door models)
There are a variety of customizations available, so you can easily configure and individualize the new AMG GT 43 to fit your needs with familiar AMG options and packages. For example, there is a variety of interior configurations such as the standard two-place individual rear-seats or the optional executive rear-seat package, numerous wheel options, and the incomparable Burmester High-End 3D Surround Sound System.
Connectivity between people pops up in the most unlikely places. Like on the service drive at Park Place Lexus Plano. That’s where two fellow team members, who didn’t know each other from Adam, first discovered that they shared a surprisingly meaningful connection- and no, it wasn’t that they both worked at Park Place.
It All Started with a Vowel (read more to see “Y”)
One sunny morning back in 2013, Brandon Gillespy, body shop manager at Park Place BodyWerks, was at the service drive at Park Place Lexus Plano, picking up a client vehicle for transport to the body shop in Dallas.
“This guy comes over to me, big smile, introduces himself and asks if I’m related to Jamie Gillespy,” Brandon recalls.
The guy was Don Mitchell, sales experience manager at Lexus Plano. The unusual spelling of Brandon’s last name, with a “y” instead of an “ie,” caught Don’s eye.
“My daughter Meredith was always raving about a wonderful teacher at Plano’s Jasper High School named Jamie Gillespy,” Don explains. “Jamie taught an elective course in ASL, or American Sign language, and Meredith absolutely adored Jamie and I remembered the unique spelling. So Brandon and I both remarked on what a small world it was.”
In most cases, a random coincidence like that results in a pleasant conversation and that’s the end of it.
But then something else happened. Two somethings, in fact.
Jamie-Mania
First, Brandon became increasingly aware that his wife was starting to enjoy a kind of Jamie-mania.
“Since that moment, it seems like anywhere we go, a store or a restaurant in Frisco or Plano, we hear someone yell, “MISS G!” And then a former student runs across the room to give my wife a giant hug. Don’s story first opened my eyes to this phenomenon, and since then it’s been nonstop. And a lot of fun for both of us!”
Jamie Gillespy, ASL teacher at Frisco Centennial High School with husband, Brandon Gillespy, Body Shop Manager at Park Place BodyWerks
Second, Jamie’s impact on Meredith carried on well past the classroom into adulthood. After graduating from Plano Senior High, she went on to earn an education degree at the University of Arkansas and is, in fact, now a teacher at a Title 1 school in Springdale, Arkansas.
Don Mitchell, Sales Experience Manager at Lexus Plano with daughter and teacher Meredith.
“Meredith was already starting to show a passion for teaching, and Jamie really reinforced a lot of the values that made teaching a compelling career choice,” says Don. “My mother was a teacher, and just like Jamie, her example had life-lasting positive impacts on her students, too. Meredith is that same kind of person, that same kind of teacher.”
Don Mitchell, Sales Experience Manager at Lexus Plano with daughter and teacher Meredith.
“I felt inspired to learn how much my wife meant to Don’s daughter,” says Brandon, noting that Jamie is now the ASL teacher at Frisco Centennial High School as well as Student Council Sponsor. He’s especially proud that the school created a video about what her days are like during this time of uncertainty. Check it out.
Park Place Cares
Don and Brandon’s story alludes to just one of the reasons why Park Place has been such a passionate supporter of education over the past 30+ years. After discovering their small-world connection and shared values, these two members are even more gratified that their chosen place of work, Park Place, actively supports education as a corporate initiative, sponsoring the Teacher of the Year program in nine local school districts. The company is also active in the Plano ISD Education Foundation’s Grants to Educators program.
“I was amazed when I first learned of the connection between Don and Brandon, as well as Jamie and Meredith,” says Anam Ali-Hashambhai, Experiential Marketing Manager at Park Place.
“It really brought home to me that the Park Place commitment to education is all about connecting people, ideas, inspiration and creativity. These kinds of connections are out there, and makes our Teacher of the Year sponsorship even that more special and personal.”
Thank You, Thank You
“I was honored to attend a ‘Teacher of the Year’ event where I represented Park Place, says Don. “But I was even more honored and proud to be the parent of a teacher.”
“Showing educators that they’re valued is outstanding,” adds Brandon. “I’m really glad that Park Place is willing to show this kind of commitment. Especially since I married into a family of teachers. Jamie’s mother, aunt and grandmother are all or were teachers. It’s important that we honor teachers for the lifelong impact they have on their students.”
So has this connection also spawned a friendship between Don and Brandon?
“Oh yeah,” smiles Brandon. “We’re good pals.”
“Who do you think sold Jamie her Lexus?” teases Don.
Carter BloodCare says their ability to provide blood to hospitals for urgent transfusion needs of patients has been in severe jeopardy. Recently, Carter BloodCare and Park Place Dealerships came together for a blood drive that has potentially made the difference in 339 lives.
Members from Park Place Motorcars in Arlington Participate in the #ParkPlaceCares Blood Drive
“The members at Park Place Dealerships are extremely generous with their time and resources, including their blood,” noted Dave Evans, Chief Marketing Officer for Park Place Dealerships. “We asked members if they would like to participate in this event and we had an overwhelming response. We were happy to know this event made the difference for people in need.”
Members from Park Place Motorcars in Arlington Participate in the #ParkPlaceCares Blood DriveMembers from Park Place Motorcars in Arlington Participate in the #ParkPlaceCares Blood Drive
Members from Park Place Volvo Participate in the #ParkPlaceCares Blood Drive
Park Place Dealerships hosted the blood drive over two days at seven locations with 114 donors and 113 units collected equating to about 339 lives saved. Park Place encourages more Dallas/Fort Worth companies to organize blood drives throughout the summer, especially during the period of critical need.
Park Place Porsche General Manager, Patrick Huston, leads the charge to donate blood during the #ParkPlaceCares Blood DriveMembers from Park Place in Dallas Participate in the #ParkPlaceCares Blood Drive
IMPORTANCE OF A BLOOD DRIVE
The pandemic’s impact on the blood supply has been profound and sudden. Blood drives were cancelled after businesses, school, universities and houses of worship shut down. Giving blood is essential with or without the COVID-19 pandemic.
Blood donors are the only way to provide for transfusions because blood cannot be manufactured. Since the state of Texas has reopened, hospitals are trying to resume a full capacity of medical and surgical services. Six hundred to 800 patients a day require transfusions.
SIGN-UP WITH CARTER BLOODCARE
Companies and the community can get more information or sign up to give blood at carterbloodcare.org.
Park Place Dealerships was founded in 1987 by Ken Schnitzer with a single Mercedes-Benz dealership in Dallas. For the past 33 years, the company has been engaged in the community supporting the arts, medical research, children’s advocacy and education. Park Place employs more than 1,500 members and operates 18 full-service dealerships representing luxury brands Lexus, Mercedes-Benz, Porsche, Volvo, Jaguar, Land Rover, Koenigsegg, Rolls-Royce, Bentley, McLaren, Maserati and Aston Martin. For more info, visit parkplace.com.
