Posted on

2016 Lexus ES Review

How do you make something so popular better? Well, the 2016 Lexus ES 350 tackles that problem with a strikingly revised angular grill replete with chrome trim. Flanking it are new standard LED headlights which complete the sedan imposing steely glare. Finishing off the handsome look are unique triangular fog lamps in the corners below the headlamps. Four colors join the line to give you more choices and they contain a self-healing clear coat technology. This type of paint actually has the ability to repair itself after it has been scratched and it’s not as easily damaged as conventional paints.

When you pop the hood of the ES 350, you’re looking at the tried and true V6 power plant that generates 268-hp that has been a staple of the Lexus line for a number of years. Reliable, a great performer and paired with a 6-speed transmission that is just silky smooth on the road. Vehicle stability control limits wheel slip for sure footed handling even on slippery surfaces. The ES can also come with variety of safety features from lane-departure to PCS, or pre-collision system, which detects other vehicles when approaching them rapidly. The entire body of the ES has been designed to have a low coefficient of drag which contributes it’s quiet ride and fuel efficiency. The ES has a surprisingly cabin and it offers loads of standard amenities such as 10-way power seats, power-integrated mirrors and automatic climate control. The cargo also boasts tons of space for luggage, golf clubs or both.

We’d like to invite you to get up close and personal with the new ES at one of our Park Place Lexus Dealerships. We have locations in both Grapevine and Plano. Or visit us online at parkplace.com. Click here to view our ES inventory.

Posted on

2017 Mercedes-Benz GLS Review

In the new 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLS, a few changes have been made to their best full-size SUV yet. Both the dashboard and the front end have been re-designed and there’s a few tweaks in the back, as well as an abundance of new standard features. If you’ve been looking for a full size SUV that has generous space and off-road skills, then the GLS fits the build and then some. The GLS sports more dynamic select modes, more standard features, more power, and more driver assistance systems. The completely reworked front end enhances the sporty nature of the GLS with new power domes on the hood and new halogen head lamp design with interval daytime running lights

The GLS 450 has a new 9-speed transmission that is very smooth leaving barely any feeling of the gears shifting. It’s as tight as a sports car when the turning radius is turned off. The sporty feel continues as this SUV goes from 20mph to 60mph before you know it. For a mid-5,000 pound vehicle this V8 absolutely gets up and goes. The systems in this car are also so intuitive as voice commands access a number of them. Equipped with features such as a reverse camera with gridlines to show you where your going and the Eco button that turns the car off when stationary, this SUV has it all.

If you want the benefits of the luxurious S-Class but need a bit more room or versatility, the GLS may be just your ticket. Come see the revitalized GLS at one of our Park Place Motorcars Dealerships. We have locations in Dallas, Fort Worth, Grapevine and Arlington. Or visit us on the web at parkplace.com. Click here to view our GLS inventory.

 

 

Posted on

2016 Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe Review

The new Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe is a Mercedes-Benz that defies description. It’s a departure from anything that the German manufacturer has ever offered in its illustrious history. The new GLE Coupe combines the sportiness and handling of a coupe with the convenience and spaciousness of an SUV, all wrapped up in one head turning package. Although its based on the Mercedes-Benz M Class, the GLE Coupe is a much larger, brawnier vehicle. It’s 3 inches longer, almost 4 inches longer and its an inch lower to the ground. The sound, the power, and the overall vibe to this entry are pure sport coupe. Bu this GLE brings more to the table than just a coupe with its versatility and bravado. It wouldn’t be exaggerating to say that the GLE Coupe is an SUV with the heart and soul of a street racer. It combines a new 9-speed automatic transmission with 4-matic AWD to offer a variety of driving styles that range from lively and agile to cool and calm. Because of the greater range of ratios and quicker shift points, you’ll hardly notice the shift points in this 9-speed transmission.

Underneath the elite red engine cover is the 3.0L bi-turbo V6 that powerful turbo boost supported by a dynamic exhaust system. With 362-hp and 384-lb of torque standing by, this beefy coupe accelerates from standing still to 60 mph in just 5.5 seconds. The LED headlamps adjust depending on the various driving and weather conditions. The GLE 450 boasts the widest seat in its class. As you fold the 60/40 split rear seats flat to get 60 cubic feet of carpeted space, you get one of the largest cargo areas of any coupe in the world. The spacious and refined cabin pampers everyone inside with its hand-finished wood and hand-fitted upholstery. The polished wood, the soft well-tailored surfaces and the elaborate metallic embellishments exude class and elegance. The GLE provides 4 different driving modes such as comfort, sport, sport + and individual, a customizable setting.

For more information on the new GLE Coupe visit one of our Park Place Motorcars Dealerships. We have locations in Dallas, Fort Worth, Grapevine and Arlington. Or visit us online at parkplace.com. Click here to view our GLE inventory.

Posted on

2017 Porsche Panamera Unveiled

On Tuesday, June 28th, Porsche celebrated the world premiere of the new 2017 Panamera in Berlin accompanied by a spectacular display of lights, music and choreography. Over 300 international media representatives – as well as guests from business, sports and the entertainment industry – were able to view the second generation of the sports sedan for the first time. The new 2017 Porsche Panamera, which has been redeveloped from the ground up, combines two contrasting characteristics better than ever before: it offers both the performance of a sports car and the comfort of a luxury sedan

“We have tapped into the segment of luxury sport sedans with the Panamera. Since it launched in 2009, over 150,000 units of the Panamera have been sold. The new model represents a completely redeveloped automobile – with new engines, a new design and new technologies. Furthermore, we are now manufacturing the second generation of the vehicle entirely at our Leipzig production site. To this end, we have invested a sum of 500 million Euros – which includes a completely new body manufacturing facility,” Oliver Blume, Chairman of the Executive Board of Porsche AG, emphasized.

The design language of the new Panamera creates a link to the Porsche 911 through its even more dynamic flyline and by using specific design elements of the iconic sports car. “An observer will immediately recognize the coupé-like roof line, but it is much ‘faster’, even more dynamic and includes a new side window look that emphasizes the coupe-like side view even more,” said Michael Mauer, Head of Style Porsche AG, who explained the design objectives that were set for the new model: “The new Panamera can be identified as a Panamera at first glance, but also as the new Panamera. Its strengths have been reinforced, its weaknesses have been eradicated and above all its distinctive character has been preserved.” The new twin-turbo engines of the Panamera are more powerful than before, and thanks to the new eight-speed dual-clutch transmission (PDK II) they are up to 16 percent more fuel-efficient according to the New European Driving Cycle. The Panamera will launch with two engines: the 550 hp Panamera Turbo and the 440 hp Panamera 4S. Both models will be equipped with all-wheel drive as standard.

To provide an even larger spread between supple ride comfort and agile handling, the Panamera now offers features such as the new three-chamber air suspension, rear axle steering and the new electronic 4D Chassis Control chassis management system. Many new assistance systems also enhance ride comfort as well as safety.

In the new Panamera, Porsche is also introducing a future-oriented display and control concept. The new Porsche Advanced Cockpit with its smartphone-like user interfaces and configurable LED screens impresses with its intuitive functionality. Furthermore, the new Porsche Communication Management (PCM 4.1) offers an entirely new range of connectivity by its intelligent digital functions and online services. In the new Panamera, Porsche Connect is being introduced in all models. It extends existing vehicle functions by adding digital services and apps such as those used to control certain vehicle functions remotely by smartphone – and others to make more efficient use of the driver’s time on the go.

 

 

Posted on

2016 smart Car Review

Built with the ultimate respect for our earth, smart cars are the zenith of fun relaxed driving. Parking, turning, driving, all couldn’t be more enjoyable as you can hop into any park space with ease. With the tightest turning circle in the industry, smart cars can make city driving a snap. The cabin, front and rear are all wider with increased spaciousness resulting in a more modern, suave looking smart car. Four inches wider than previous models, the driver and passenger have more hip and shoulder room than ever. The passenger seat folds forward almost flat to create extra storage space. The smart car comes with 100-lb feet of torque and a 5-speed manual transmission that sits in the rear to optimize the car’s compact design. With a smart car, you can go far, averaging 32 mpg in the city and over 39 mpg on the highway for a combined average of 36 mpg.

The rear of the smart car has a split tailgate for effortless loading and unloading. The cargo and rear storage area is actually rather impressive and boasts space that can hold over 6 carry-on sized suitcases. For more stowing area and space, the passenger seat can be pushed down to 90 degrees. With the seat down you can transport items up to 5 feet long. Inside the spacious cabin area, you are provided with tons of options for your listening and entertainment pleasure with AM/FM radio, CD player, USB and AUX inputs to connect your smartphone or other device to play your music. smart car’s shell protects everyone inside as it acts similar to that of the shell of a walnut. The tough shell contains 8 airbags within it to protect both the driver and the passenger. The in-lock braking system make sure the wheels retain traction on the road to prevent them from locking up or skidding. When parked on a hill or steep road, hill start assist makes sure the car does not roll away. All vehicles also have crosswind assist, a huge benefit for a vehicle of that size. For a car so small on the outside, it really has a good amount of space on the inside and it is apparent the engineers really focused on maximizing that interior space.

smart’s substantial makeover delivers more of everything- more room, more agility, more options, more entertainment, more safety and a lot more fun. You can experience one of these fuel sippers at one of our two DFW locations, smart Center Dallas or smart Center Fort Worth. Or visit us online at parkplace.com. Click here to view our smart inventory.

Posted on

2016 Lexus RX Review

Since it’s launch, the new 2016 Lexus RX 350 luxury crossover SUV has been a best-seller, and for very good reason. The latest model has a new design inside and out that takes the elegance up to a new and impressive level. The most notable changes to the body are the addition of vivid creases and sharp crisp edges that have the RX standing out from a sea of SUV competitors. Lexus’ signature spindle grill has undergone an evolution as it now has a full chrome plate from top to bottom. Three new colors have been added and all models wear a scratch-resistant, self-storing coat in the body paint to keep the crossover looking as glossy as the first day you drove it home.

A new advanced 3.5L V6 engine, new 8-speed automatic transmission and variable valve timing with intelligence system up the performance. The 2016 RX has more horsepower at 295 and straight line stability to serve up a polished ride that’s fine tuned for fuel efficiency and low emissions. Never before seen in a Lexus vehicle the new RX has blacked out C pillars that give the illusion that the roof is floating. Wrapping around the side to the rear are L-shaped taillights with a full length chrome strip that runs between them. Boasting more cargo space than any other vehicle in it’s class, the RX can store 4 large suitcases, multiple sets of golf clubs or some of each. New in this model and a Lexus first is the touch-free power rear door. This allows you to open the rear door without digging out your keys. Just wave a hand by the Lexus emblem and the hood opens.

Possessing more charisma, more driving aids and more convenience features, the fearless and elegant new RX continues to blaze the trail for premium luxury crossovers. After driving one for the past couple of days, I can confidently tell you experiencing it in person is a vastly different experience than seeing one on the road. Discover why the RX makes a top-seller at Park Place Lexus Grapevine or Park Place Lexus Plano. Or visit us online at parkplace.com. Click here to view our RX inventory.

Posted on

2016 Mercedes-Benz GLA Review

Every part of the 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLA is enhanced for handling, comfort, durability, and visibility. This SUV may be compact but it’s surprisingly ample on the inside. You can fold the rear seats in a 60/40 split to easily create up to 43.5 cubic feet of space for people and things. All models come with an ECO start/stop button that automatically shuts the engine off when the vehicle is stopped to maximize fuel economy. Mercedes-Benz is, of course, well known for its safety innovation. Collision prevention assist plus keeps the vehicle at a safe distance from vehicles in the front to lower the chance of a rear end collision. Attention assist monitors for driver drowsiness and sends alerts when it detects the possibility of a sleepy driver.

The base model of the 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLA comes equipped with a 208-hp engine that provides the driver with enough acceleration to feel like one is in a sporty car without being too firm. The mid-size SUV also comes equipped with a very efficient A/C system that is able to cool the car off in just minutes, a must-have in the heat of summer. Some models come with new features such as lane change assist which helps the driver stay alert and aware if there is a car or object in the blind spot. If you’re in the market for a small SUV, there’s not much better you can do than the GLA.

Check out the high-spirited GLA at one of our various Park Place Motorcars Dealerships. We have locations in Dallas, Fort Worth, Grapevine and Arlington. Or visit us online at parkplace.com. Click here to view our GLA inventory.

 

Posted on

Behind the Badge: Porsche

A Porsche never fails to grab the attention of anyone who passes by one. Porsche’s elite reputation wasn’t just formed overnight. For over 80 years, Porsche and its vehicles have been continuously evolving. In 1931, Porsche Automobil Holding SE was founded by a Czech engineer named Ferdinand Porsche after being commissioned to design automobiles for other companies. While Porsche has been globally recognized for its name and beautiful design, another symbol that represents Porsche is the badge on the hood of every car. Prior to this symbolic seal, Porsche cars only bared the name of the automaker, “Porsche.” It wasn’t until 1953 when Porsche first placed a badge on their cars. What isn’t agreed upon is the origin of the idea behind the badge and its design.

 

Americans contend that the badge was thought up in 1951 when Ferdinand Porsche’s son, Ferry, came to American to meet with an American Porsche distributor named Max Hoffman.  Hoffman believed that the Porsche brand needed a symbol, or a mascot, to be more recognizable and accessible in the minds of consumers. Apparently Ferry ended up sketching something up on a napkin in the restaurant in which they met, then bringing it back to Germany with him to put into production.

Porsche Crest

Germans believe in a little different story behind the badges creation, contending that an engineer named Franz Xavier Reimspiess worked with Ferdinand before his death in 1951 to create a lasting image for the Porsche brand. Regardless of the two different beliefs behind the badges conception, it began to appear on the company’s automobiles in 1953.

Wurttemberg state crest
Wurttemberg state crest

The badge consists of a horse inspired by the Stuttgart city seal, the town Porsche calls home, and the antlers and red and black stripes which were taken from the state crest of Württemberg where the city of Stuttgart is located. Porsche views the wild animal in their badge “as an expression of the company’s forward-thrusting power.” (The News Wheel)

Stuttgart City Seal
Stuttgart City Seal

 

 

Posted on

2016 Jaguar XF Review

The stunning new Jaguar XF sedan has been redesigned and is a prime example of Jaguar’s mission to create vehicles which combine superlative road manners with confident handling and eye-catching design. The XF is a motorcar that blends sportiness with premium sedan comfort, all built-in to an elegant and vibrant design. A suite of innovative technology shares a host of information letting the driver know what’s going on inside and around the XF for a heightened and safer driving experience. Let’s take a closer look at the rest of this beautiful new entry from a manufacturer renowned for its elegant and sensual designs. The redesign begins in the front of the XF with a more upright grill that supports the same mesh pattern as the F-type, Jaguar’s superlative sports car. The sculpted hood contains deeper lines creating a V-shape look that’s capped by a very amplified center. The headlights are flushed to the bumper for greater aerodynamics and visual aesthetics.

The 2016 model year offers two supercharged V6 engines, one with 340-hp and one revved up version which boasts 380-hp. Both are also available for either RWD or AWD. Everything from the front suspension to the front of the rear seat uses a lightweight aluminum which makes up 75% of the XF. The extensive use of aluminum improves body stiffness by 28% to take handling to even higher levels. The increased rigidity is quite noticeable on the road and creates a very confident feel. A new suite of standard and optional advanced technologies support the driver and enrich the XF’s road manners for the driver as well as everyone else inside. Another F-type inspired feature are the tail lamps of the XF, which feature dual crescent lighting and a thin LED stoplight across the top of the rear window. Every feature on the body has been engineered to limit drag at higher speeds to maximize aerodynamic and efficiency. From the inside out the XF is filled with luxuries, amenities and space.

The 2016 XF reflects the best of previous models but it adds greater sophistication as it offers enhanced efficiency, comfort, space and technology. To see the contemporary craftsmanship and intelligent engineering please visit Park Place Jaguar Plano. Or visit us online at parkplace.com. Click here to view our XF inventory.

Posted on

The New Bugatti Chiron Makes Hill Climb at Goodwood Festival

Bugatti never ceases to amaze people with the cars they create. They followed suit again as the new Bugatti Chiron debuted in the hill climb race at the Goodwood Festival of Speed. The design of the Chiron will grab the attention of anyone who catches a glimpse just as it did with over 99,000 fans in attendance of the Goodwood Festival. If you haven’t already, we highly recommend you check out Bugatti’s new $2.6 million beast as soon as possible because with a car this fast you just might miss it!

To learn more about the Bugatti Chiron and it’s debut at the Goodwood Festival click here.