Category: Vehicles

Posted on

2016 Mercedes-Benz GLE 350 Review

Today we’re looking at the all new Mercedes-Benz GLE350 SUV. It’s predecessor, M-class has been revitalized and redesigned as the GLE-Class. The GLE 350 upholds the Mercedes-Benz tradition of using only the highest quality materials like hand-polished wood and hand-stitched upholstery. You might not recognize the new front fascia, as it sports a new hood with power domes, sleeker front fenders, brawny bumpers, and a radiator grille with two lines accentuating the Mercedes-Benz star.

The diamond-shaped grille flows naturally from top to bottom of the front bumper for a sleek, uniform look. When you pop the hood of the GLE, you’ll find the tried and true 3.5L V6 engine that Mercedes-Benz uses in so many of its vehicles. This has been one of the most reliable and best-performing engines that Mercedes-Benz has ever produced, and it feels great when coupled with the 7-speed automatic transmission in the GLE.

All models come with Dynamic Select, which allows you to choose one of four or five transmission modes to change the characteristics of engine, transmission, and steering to deliver your desired driving style. If you want a dynamic ride, change to “Sport”. If you’re looking for a serene one, try “Comfort.” Slick weather? “Slippery” will improve handling to limit slipping or sliding, or you can create your own customized mode. Since this SUV can carry five passengers, the 11-way airbag system has everyone covered. Driver drowsiness can happen to anyone, but Attention Assist helps fight it by monitoring up to 70 parameters of driving behavior. If it detects a potential problem, the system can alert the driver.

With the ability to tow up to 7200 pounds, and a 60/40 split second-row seat that provides you with a vast 80 cubic feet of storage space, you’ll be able to effortlessly carry your gear for a long road trip or weekend adventure.

Inside the airy cabin is hand-finished wood and hand-fitted upholstery for the ultimate in elegance and comfort. The abundance of amenities includes a bigger 8-inch screen, and premium interior lighting that illuminates the center console, interior door handles, and footwells for peace of mind and passenger safety.

Of course, it’s wonderful for a vehicle to look great, but what does this vehicle feel like out on the road? Having driven the M-Class for a number of years, I can tell you that the GLE, in my opinion, was a big step up. It feels very capable on the road. It’s excellent at highway speeds. It’s a great handling car in the city, and it strikes a nice balance between sport ride and comfort ride. It’s great on virtually every road surface, and the ability to select the five different driving modes is a real bonus on this vehicle.

This stunning Sport Utility Vehicle has a bright future with its inventive modern design, cutting edge technology, and capable road handling. The GLE 350 fits right in with the hustle and bustle of Dallas/Fort Worth, and handles all kinds of road surfaces with a velvet touch. It’s classy, yet sporty style suits all occasions, whether it’s a formal evening at the Bass Hall or Winspear, or camping at Lake Texoma. It’s like the ideal outfit. It can be easily dressed up or dressed down. To learn more about the new GLE, view our Mercedes-Benz GLE inventory online, or stop by one of our showrooms which are located in Arlington, Grapevine, Fort Worth, and Dallas.

Posted on

Park Place Porsche unveils new 2017 Porsche 911 Targa 4S Exclusive Design Edition

Park Place Porsche is the only Flagship Exclusive Dealership in Texas

Park Place Porsche recently hosted a party on the expansive lawn of the Camp House at Dallas Arboretum to unveil the new 2017 Porsche 911 Targa 4S Exclusive Design Edition. But like this eagerly anticipated new sports car, this exclusive event was not your average garden party. For starters, guest had a choice of a Patrón margarita served sweet, spicy, herbal or fruity. The Krish Coffee bar allowed similar customization for hot beverages. You could choose your pasta cooked exactly how you wanted it — with your hand-picked ingredients — prepared personally for you by III Forks Restaurant’s executive chef Chris Vogeli. And, as the sun set over White Rock Lake, the cover was pulled back to reveal the bold new Porsche 911 Targa 4S Exclusive Design Edition in Etna Blue with the Porsche logo and stripe glistening in white gold metallic along its sides.

AD1V8595

“We wanted the party to reflect the customization options available for our clients,” said Patrick Huston, General Manager of Park Place Porsche. “As one of only a dozen Porsche Exclusive Flagship dealers in the country, and the only one in Texas, we can offer our clients an unprecedented level of personalization for their cars. Options go well beyond a choice of leather or paint colors. We can sit down with a client and select from dozens of different options to make any Porsche model uniquely their own. And we can show them how the options work together in real time on our computer. They can even compare pricing as they design the car of their dreams.”

AD1V8612

The new Porsche 911 Targa 4 comes standard with a 350-horsepower, 3.4-liter flat-6 engine that starts at $102,595. The 400-hp, 3.8-liter flat-6 Targa 4S is $117,195. But, consider MSRPs as merely suggestions as you can configure your Targa any way you want it. For instance, a seven-speed manual gearbox is standard, but the optional PDK gearbox allows you to roll through gears even faster. You can even choose air vents that match your car’s upholstery. Or you might prefer chrome vents. Again, the options are only limited by your creativity. However you outfit your car, it can leap from 0-to-60 mph in about 4.2 seconds. Don’t worry. It’s wide stance and all-wheel drive grips the road even in tight curves.

AD1V8639

Following assembly, all vehicles are hand-finished on the Porsche Exclusive production lines in Zuffenhausen, Germany. For 30 years, Porsche Exclusive has strived to deliver individuality straight from the factory and boasts a long-standing tradition in the creation of limited vehicle projects. With each vehicle, the customer receives a specially designed indoor car cover as well as a bound photo album in graphite-blue leather, which documents the development process of their car and features its specific vehicle identification number (VIN).

Park Place partnered with III Forks Restaurant, Patrón Tequila and Lakewood Brewing Co. on this fantastic event. Other sponsors included Verona Privé Maison, which provided sophisticated lounge groupings for guests’ comfort during the sunset reveal.

Located at 6113 Lemmon Avenue, near Dallas’ Love Field, Park Place Porsche was selected this year as a Porsche Premier Dealer for the 19th time. Over the years, Park Place Porsche has been recognized by Porsche Cars North America as the most consistently winning dealer in North America.

Posted on

From the World’s Most Demanding Racetrack–The New Mercedes-AMG® GT R

The Nürburgring race track is easily the most famous in Germany, if not the world. Nicknamed “the Green Hell” in the late ’60s due to its difficulty, Nürburgring features plenty of punishing twists and turns, and any vehicle that can master it can take on anything. That’s why the 2018 Mercedes-AMG® GT R impresses us so much here at Park Place Dealerships. Never before has Mercedes-AMG® put this much motorsport power into a production vehicle, and it shows.

2018-Mercedes-Benz-AMG-GT-R_noPlate

As Professor Thomas Weber, Member of the Board of Management of Daimler AG, says:

Our sports-car and performance brand AMG has its roots in motorsport and, ever since its formation, has repeatedly faced up to the competition on the racetrack. These genes are particularly prevalent in the new AMG GT R. Boasting a wealth of technological innovations, the new top-of-the-range model is proof of the close collaboration between our constructors of racing cars and road-going vehicles.

The new AMG® GT R spent much of its development time at the Green Hell, and every aspect of the vehicle reflects its motorsport origins. The heart of the beast is, of course, its transaxle, biturbo V8 engine, one that’s rated at an impressive 577 horsepower. Paired with its aerodynamic and lightweight construction, the new AMG® GT R practically flies. Keeping you in perfect control throughout the ride are an active rear-wheel steering, a nine-way adjustable traction control system, as well as an adjustable coil-over suspension (with additional electronic control).
2018-Mercedes-AMG-GT-R-Engine_no-Plate

The team at Park Place Dealerships is extremely excited about the AMG® GT R, and we’re not the only ones. Tobias Moers, CEO of Mercedes-AMG GmbH, calls it “the next level of driving performance,” saying:

This road-going sports car with motor-racing genes and innovative technical solutions offers an ultimate driving experience that allows people to feel our motorsport origins in every fiber. It combines the driving dynamics of our AMG GT3 racing car with the everyday practicality of the AMG GT. Those with gasoline in their veins will be thrilled by the radical longitudinal and lateral acceleration, the precise turn-in and the sensational grip. We have modified all performance-relevant components and linked them together intelligently for maximum driving dynamics.

“Maximum driving dynamics” sounds pretty great to us. If that sounds good to you too, contact us at Park Place Motorcars in Dallas, Fort Worth, Grapevine, or Arlington to learn more about the 2018 Mercedes-AMG® GT R, or any of our other new Mercedes-Benz models.

Posted on

2016 Bentley Continental GT V8 S Convertible

Bentley engineers have taken inspiration from past Continental icons to create a reborn motorcar that features modern technology and contemporary lines. The classic, self-confident front of the Bentley Continental GT introduces more pronounced fenders, a smaller grill and a more open look to intensify its assertive attitude. The 520-hp V8 engine is a performance dream, moving this 5,000-lb vehicle from 0-60mph in an astonishing 4.3 seconds and reaching a top track speed of 198mph. It out-performs many smaller and lighter sports cars with its speed capabilities. Another striking feature for the 2016 model is the chrome strip that runs along the bottom edge of the vehicle whereas in previous models it stopped at the back end of the vehicle, it now continuously flows around the vehicle. Virtually no other car on the planet has more customization options than the Continental. There are 17 exterior color choices, 17 interior choices and 8 different selections for the top.

The rear of the Continental flows from top to bottom beginning with the LED tail light and the more pronounced trunk spoiler which travels down to the full-width chrome strip that spans the wide rear bumper. Beneath the bumper, long twin oval exhaust tailpipes meld with the elongated groove. The updated interior still maintains Bentley’s signature look and the ride is quiet, confident and refined. High quality and comfortably soft leather surrounds everyone inside and adds to the elegance portion. It’s underscored by a choice of wood or carbon fiber. The dark orange analog dials illuminate the dashboard at night it is crystal clear. From the refined exterior to the sumptuous interior, everything about the Bentley Continental says class.

No other car epitomizes the spirit of life in a grand tour more eloquently than the Bentley Continental does. Come experience this exquisite masterpiece at Park Place Bentley Dallas or visit us online at parkplace.com. Click here to see the Continental GT Convertible inventory.

Posted on

2016 Mercedes-Benz GLC Review

The 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLC looks like a classy sedan when you view it straight on and it has the refinement and comfort of a sedan but with the room and flexibility of an SUV. A responsive and clean breathing 241-hp turbo 4 engine with direct injection, multi-spark ignition, and the fuel saving Eco start/stop system develops 273 pounds of torque at a wide range of RPM’s. Simply put, it’s quick to go yet it’s gentle on the planet and has superb overall dynamics. Also contributing to the steady ride is the crosswind assist. This stands on alert watching for a sudden gust of wind and it keeps your vehicle on its intended path.

In the GLC you have more storage possibilities and load capacity with the folding rear seats. The luggage compartment is 52 inches long and more than 43 inches wide, almost 6 inches wider than the previous model. The all-new interior reflects a modern purity as the hand-crafted luxurious material on the dash board and the center console present a clean natural flow. The Mercedes-Benz brand takes the key fob to new lengths as you can now remote start the car through your smartphone via M-brace. Everything about the interior is set up to be ergonomically correct so everything is right at your fingertips in the cockpit of the vehicle.

Come put the new GLC to the test 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 GLC inventory.

Posted on

2017 Lotus Evora 400 Review

So what happens when Lotus asks their engineers to build the fastest Lotus ever? The Evora 400 is what happens. It is a massive amount of fun guaranteed to put a smile on your face and get your adrenaline racing. This is one of the best cars one the road and from a performance standpoint it is absolutely flawless, and we haven’t even had it on the track yet. When behind the wheel of the Evora 400 one will notice that it is a track car that has been civilized for street use and perhaps as an everyday car. The Lotus feels like a very stable car which has been elegantly designed to balance from the front to the rear. The Lotus engineers designed the car for maximum down force to have a vehicle with zero lift. It’s quite amazing how confident the new Evora 400 feels on the road. The muscular stance, the angular lines and just the pure aggressiveness of this vehicle when you look at it, it all springs to life when you turn the key and push the start button.

If you’d like to experiences the Lotus Evora 400 in person, we invite you to visit us at Lotus of Plano or online at parkplace.com. The Evora 400 is worth the trip of any length.

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.