Vehicles – Page 34 – Park Place Dealerships

July 5, 2013May 7, 2015

2013 Volvo C70 Looks Best with the Top Down

Most drivers will find that the 2013 Volvo C70 convertible looks great and performs flawlessly, whether the removable top is up or down. In this car, every trip is exhilarating for both passengers and passers-by.

With total practicality, comfortable seats and excellent styling, the Volvo C70 stands out from the competition. The beautiful exterior design, smooths out the structural lines that intrude awkwardly on the silhouettes of many hardtop convertibles. On the inside, the cabin is beautifully apportioned and offers very comfortable seats without sacrificing much room in the trunk.

The interior standard package of the T5 includes Bluetooth audio and phone connectivity, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, leather upholstery, a trip computer, a telescoping steering wheel, dual-zone automatic climate controls, an eight-speaker sound system, driver seat memory functions and eight way power front seats. The exterior carries fog lights, automatic wipers, 17-inch alloy wheels, heated mirrors, and a power retractable hardtop.

The available Premier Plus package offers rear parking sensors, keyless ignition, keyless entry and LED running lights. In addition to those features, the Platinum package provides a 14-speaker surround sound system and a navigation system. With the Inscription Edition, one can have unique 18-inch wheels, monogrammed floor mats and front seats, a leather covering for the dash, aluminum sport pedals, a more powerful engine, LED running lights, a sport steering wheel, adaptive xenon lights and a rear spoiler. The Climate package includes an automatic cabin air filter with heated front seats and the Dynamic package has a sport steering wheel, adaptive bi-xenon headlights and 18-inch alloy wheels.

The C70 sports a 2.5-liter inline-5 turbocharged engine capable of providing 236 pound-feet of torque and 227 horses. Equipping the Inscription Edition package brings a more powerful engine that raises the torque to 273 and the horsepower to 250. The standard options here are a five-speed automatic transmission and front wheel drive.

Testing showed that the Inscription-equipped C70 accelerates to 60 mph in 7.8 seconds. Slightly lower than others in the class, the pickup is more than offset by the impressive fuel economy. Estimated at 19 miles per gallon in the city, 28 miles per gallon on the highway and 22 miles per gallon when combined, the C70 offers performance with fuel efficiency.

All C70 models come with active front head restraints, antilock disc brakes, traction control, stability control, front seat curtain style airbags, front seat mounted side airbags and a rollover bar that automatically deploys. In tests, the C70 came to a halt in 133 feet from 60 mph.

The Swedish touch is obvious in the passenger cabin of the 2013 Volvo C70. The sleek design is accented with the trademark Volvo stack panel that seems to float between the center console and the dash. The effect is accentuated by the quality materials that include aluminum and wood trim along with the leather upholstery. The front seats conform to the body and the Platinum speakers provide sound quality unmatched by other convertibles.

The front seats are very spacious and there is ample legroom in the rear as compared to others in the segment. Volvo offers a generous 12.8 cubic foot truck already, only decreasing it down to 6.0 cubic feet with the top lowered. The trunk space is reduced slightly with the hardtop down, but this is a common with convertibles and compares favorably with competitors.

Most drivers will find the C70 to be a nearly perfect ride. The supple suspension cruises along and the airflow is well managed when the hardtop is down. This car is a pleasure to drive and to own and will turn heads from South Side to Preston Hollow.

The entire 2013 Volvo lineup can be seen at Park Place Volvo Dallas.

July 2, 2013May 7, 2015

The 2013 Porsche Panamera: An Expansive Model

The luxury sport sedan by Porsche has a wide portfolio of credentials to back up its performance. The lineup now includes all wheel and rear wheel drive as well as models that are turbocharged and naturally aspirated. There is even a hybrid trim available for the 2013 Porsche Panamera.

Capable of seating four, the 2013 Porsche Panamera is a sedan style vehicle that comes with a hatchback trunk. There are eight trims available: Base, 4/S, S/Hybrids, GTS and Turbo/S.

The base Panamera comes with a V6 and includes 18-inch wheels, LED daytime lights, automatic xenon headlights, a sunroof and auto-dimming mirrors. Other features include a tilt and telescoping steering column, dual-zone automatic climate control, partial leather upholstery, driver memory functions and an eight-way power front seat. The 4 is the same but with all wheel drive, and the S Hybrid has similar equipment as well.

The Panamera S comes with a V8 while the 4S has all wheel drive, and both maintain the same features as the standard V6 models along with heated front seats, additional interior lighting, adaptive headlights and an adaptive suspension.

The GTS has a V8 and offers much of the features from the Turbo. The Turbo and Turbo S have a V8 along with 19-inch wheels, expanded driver memory functions, front parking sensors and heated rear seats.

As one would expect of Porsche, there are quite a number of Panamera accessories to be added to customize the cars. All of the non-engine options on the Turbo can be added to the S and 4S, for example.

Other options that can be added include adaptive cruise control, rear windshield wiper, ventilated front and rear seats, ceramic-composite brakes, eight-way power rear seats, a heated steering wheel, four-zone climate control, a rear seat entertainment system and a 16-speaker surround sound audio system by Burmester.

The 2013 Porsche Panamera comes with a 3.6-liter V6 engine that can deliver 300 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. From a standstill, the V6 accelerates to 60 miles per hour in just 5.8 seconds. According to the EPA, the fuel economy is estimated to be 18 miles per gallon in the city, 27 miles per gallon on the highway and 21 miles per gallon when combined. On the other hand, the Panamera 4 returns 18/26/21.

The S Hybrid comes with a 3.0-liter supercharged engine paired with a 35kW electric motor capable of producing 428 pound-feet of torque and 380 horsepower. This only comes with an eight-speed automatic transmission with manual shift control sent to the rear wheels. The acceleration brings the S Hybrid to 60 miles per hour in just 5.2 seconds. Naturally, the fuel economy is respectable at 22/30/25.

When it comes to safety, all trims of the 2013 Porsche Panamera are equipped with stability and traction control, side curtain airbags, rear side airbags, front side airbags, front knee airbags and antilock brakes as standard. It is optional to get a rearview camera and ceramic-composite brakes. If the typical brakes are installed, the 4S and Turbo models can come to a halt in just 109 and 112 feet, respectively, which is impressive. The Hybrid takes 112 while the GTS with carbon-ceramic requires 110 feet free of fade.

It is impossible to mistake the Panamera cabin to anything but a top notch Porsche due to its cockpit-like aesthetics and great round of available accessories.

The four seats are all similar when it comes to comfort and appearance. They are well formed and have headrests integrated with the back, offering great support during twisted turns and on long distance hauls.

Even though the 2013 Porsche Panamera is definitely accomplished for a luxury car, it also delivers in high performance. Because of the wide range of engine output depending on the trim, there are more than enough options available for any kind of driver. Normal mode provides a personality for leisure while the Sport mode sharpens the experience.

The Porsche Panamera with the V8 under its hood can offer even better performance when turbocharged, on the level of what supercars offer for acceleration. Nonetheless, the power can easily be served up to perform. The PDK transmission changes gears quickly and flawlessly when the driver strikes down the pedal.

Steering the Panamera always delivers great response as it is precise and is easily comparable to much smaller sports cars outside of it’s segment.

June 26, 2013May 7, 2015

2014 Maserati Ghibli to Debut in Dallas

Overview

The Maserati Ghibli,soon to be available at Park Place Maserati Dallas, sedan combines dramatic style, sporty performance, athletic spirit and first-rate comfort for everyday inspired driving accompanied by the ultimate soundtrack from its engine. As the first mid-sized four-door luxury sedan from Maserati, the Ghibli earns its rightful place as a major milestone in Maserati history.

The 2014 Maserati Ghibli is a rebirth of the original two-door, two-seater GT that was released in 1967 and designed by famed Italian designer Giorgetto Giugiaro. Like its ancestor, the sedan flounces with its robust personality and sporty glamour. Reviving Maserati tradition of naming cars after winds, the Ghibli reflects its namesake, which is the collection of hot, fast and powerful winds that blow across the Sahara desert.

This elegant and sporty sedan has curves with slick cut lines that show off just the right amount of muscle. The distinctive Italian design takes a minimalist approach with immaculate lines exhibiting movement. The legendary Maserati radiator grille with concave lines gets its inspiration from the GranTurismo and the iconic A6 GCS Berlinetta.

The Ghibli shares most of its foundation with the 2014 Maserati Quattroporte including the double-wishbone front suspension and multi-link rear setup. The range also gets a standard limited-slip differential. Enhancing the sedan’s sporty feel and first-class comfort are the silky leather wraparound form seats. The opulent leather highlights the delicate stitching. Complementing the seating are soft lines on the dashboard embellished with the traditional Maserati clock with a blue face.

Powering the Maserati Ghibli is a three-liter twin turbo V6 engine, an engineering masterpiece that reduces fuel consumption and emissions. And yet, it yields impressive sporty performance. The base Ghibli gets 330 hp at 5,000 rpm that allows it to leap from 0 to 62 mph in 5.6 seconds and reach a top speed of 165 mph. The Ghibli S Q4 pumps out a peak 410 hp at 5,500 rpm and rushes from 0 to 62 mph in 4.8 fiery seconds and achieves a top speed of 175 mph.

Maserati has an all-new lightweight all-wheel-drive system custom-made for handling and efficiency available as an option. For maximum traction and agility in all weather conditions, the system uses just the rear wheels until it needs the front wheels for extra support. And when the driver needs all four wheels in action, it only takes 150 milliseconds to shift torque from rear to all four wheels.

Extreme comfort, roomy interior, breathtaking style, sporty handling and supreme efficiency are all available in one package: The 2014 Maserati Ghibli. Connect with our team at Park Place Maserati Dallas to learn more about the sedan that excels in being different and turns thrilling motoring into an everyday experience.

Interior

This is a sampling of some of the interior features you’ll find in the 2014 Maserati Ghibli. Options vary based on the selected model.

Display: The 8.4-inch display of the user-friendly Maserati Touch Control in the middle of the dashboard surrounded by aluminum provides access to most of the information and entertainment system devices. Above the display is the traditional Maserati clock with blue face encircled in aluminum.

Seating: The seats’ wraparound form enhances the interior’s sporty feel while serving up first-class comfort. The upholstery’s soft leather has a natural grain with flawless stitching for a lavish look and feel. The leather can be optioned on the dashboard and doors as well as plain surfaces that can have two-tone combinations.

Audio system: In a partnership with the specialists at Bowers & Wilkins, the available new generation premium Hi-Fi system promises the consummate sound with 15 speakers distributed across the dashboard, doors and rear. The system has a 1,280-watt amplifier that sets new standards for in-car entertainment.

Upholstery: Three levels of customization is available and in a choice of three colors: Nero, Cuoio and Sabbia used on the front and rear seats as standards. These can be extended to the side areas above the dashboard, instrumental panel and door armrests for a two-tone combination of Nero and Cuoio.

For more luxury, an available third option adds upholstery to the entire interior including seats, dashboards and doors using finest quality leather produced by Poltrona Frau®. Here, the choices increase to five with the addition of Marrone and Rosso Trofeo.

Trim: The standard trim features a modern black finish. For a sportier character, polished Ebony or open pore Walnut, or carbon fiber is available.

Exterior

This is a sampling of some of the exterior features you’ll find in the 2014 Maserati Ghibli.

Exterior colors: These are some of the available colors, which vary based on trim. Bianco, Nero, Grigio, Grigio Metallo, Grigio Maratea, Bronzo Siena, Champagn, Nero Ribelle, Blu Emozione, Blu Passione, Rosso Folgore, Bianco Alpi, Rosso Energia, Azzuro Allergria.

Bi-Xenon front headlights

LED taillights

Heated washers

Sunroof: Standard in Ghibli S Q4 and optional in Ghibli

Auto dimming mirrors: Standard in Ghibli S Q4 and optional in Ghibli

18-inch wheels

Safety

This is a sampling of some of the safety features you’ll find in the 2014 Maserati Ghibli.

Rear View Camera

Homelink

Alarm

Performance

2014 Maserati Ghibli Vital Stats

Engine: 3.0-liter twin turbo V6

Transmission: ZF 8-speed automatic

Horsepower: 345 hp @ 5,250 rpm

Torque: 369 lb-ft @ 1,750 – 4,500 rpm

Top Speed: 165 mph

0-62 mph: 5.6 seconds

2014 Maserati Ghibli S Q4 Vital Stats

Engine: 3.0-liter twin turbo V6

Transmission: ZF 8-speed automatic

Horsepower: 404 hp @ 5,500 rpm

Torque: 406 lb-ft @ 1,750 – 5,000 rpm

Top Speed: 175 mph

0-62 mph: 4.8 seconds

June 19, 2013May 7, 2015

The 2013 Boxster Has It All – So You Can, Too

The Crazy Beautiful Boxster

When you approach the new 2013 Porsche Boxster, you can talk about things like style, performance and affordability, but most importantly, the rush, which according to one owner, will never stop. “The design of this car is crazy beautiful. Every day when I go out to the garage, it’s going to excite me,” he declared online. The 2013 Boxster is obviously a machine that must be seen and driven to be believed.

An Uncannily Efficient Car

The design of the new Boxster is not just amazing to look at; it actually works in an “uncannily efficient” way, as one reviewer put it. That is due to Porsche’s very earthy engineering smarts and unrelenting persistence in the search for excellence in design. The Boxster has been improved and upgraded nearly every year since 1997.

Impressive Fuel Economy

For 2013, the Boxster has improved torsional rigidity and a lower center of gravity. A new platform has been implemented using more aluminum than ever to produce a vehicle that is 55 pounds lighter than before. This translates into better aerodynamics and impressive fuel economy for a performance car: 20 mpg city and 30 mpg highway.

Engine Lowdown

The 2.7-liter V-6 engine delivers 265 hp with 207 lb-ft torque and acceleration from 0 to 60 mph in 5.5 seconds. The Boxster S houses a 3.4-liter V6 engine that packs a roaring 315 hp and 266 lb-ft torque and an amazing 4.8 second 0 to 60 mph acceleration rate. You can choose from the tactile six-speed manual transmission or the seven-speed dual clutch automatic.

How it Handles

Stability in the Boxster has been improved, thanks to a new wider platform. As one reviewer remarked, this “makes it very, very easy to drive quickly, and overall cornering stability is improved.” Another improvement, Porsche Torque Vectoring (PTV), maximizes the efficiency of rear brakes for turning and cornering. PTV operates independently of stability control, giving drivers a lighter hand for enhanced handling.

Extra Roomy

The Porsche Boxster is one of the few sports cars that can accommodate tall drivers, and thanks to an overall longer wheelbase, there is more space to stretch out. There is also more room for cargo due to the way the retractable roof folds into its own compartment, leaving plenty of cargo space in the trunk.

The Affordable Porsche

The entry-level Boxster is as close as you can get to a cost-effective performance sports car. The good news is you are getting unbelievable quality for a relatively small price. As one Porsche review in Car and Driver put it, “Porsche’s best car is now its entry-level one.” Another review in Autoweek states that as sports cars go, the Boxster is “one of the best you can get. That you can get a base model for $49,000 blows my mind—that is a heck of a deal.”

“Just a Hell of a Good Sports Car”

Though you’ll have to arm yourself against love at first sight, if you are in the market for a new sports car, don’t miss out on the new Porsche Boxster. Its styling, amazing rev and budget- friendly price are definitely worth a test drive. The 2013 Porsche Boxster is “just a hell of a good sports car that’s fast, comfortable, and features terrific handling,” concludes Autoweek’s review.

See our 2013 Boxster Inventory at the Park Place Porsche website.

June 13, 2013May 7, 2015

Mercedes-Benz Has Your 6D Vision: The Safety Revolution is On

It may sound like fiction, but Mercedes is determined to haul automotive safety standards into a new era of “accident-free driving” using the power of artificial intelligence. The company’s recent technological advances in safety represent a move towards cars that can either mitigate or prevent their own collisions on behalf of drivers. A turnkey technology essential to this effort called “6D Vision” is set to debut in the next-generation Mercedes S-Class in early 2014.

The World in Six Dimensions

Mercedes-Benz; along with parent company Daimler, have a solid and enduring legacy of contributions to occupant protection. For decades, the Benz marque pioneered technologies which have become pillars of modern automotive safety, from anti-lock brakes to airbags and “crumple zones.”

Now, Stuttgart’s world-class engineers have developed a microchip-enabled platform that syncs with radar to provide real-time imaging of the car’s immediate environment. The system empowers a car to accurately ‘see’ other automobiles, drivers, bicyclists, pedestrians or any other hazard, 360 degrees in every direction.

The car’s “eyes” perceive not only three-dimensional positions, but also three dimensions of motion, including direction and speed—hence the name ‘6D Vision’. This means your Mercedes-Benz instantly knows where an object is, where it is going and exactly how fast. It can then take appropriate action within a split-second—200 milliseconds, to be precise. The car could, for instance, swerve around a child that’s stepped into traffic, or avoid a parked car’s door that swings open into the lane.

Making History

In November 2011, key members of Daimler’s research team received the Karl Heinz Beckurts prize to wide acclaim for their contributions to the science of stereo processing and recognition in the making of ‘6D.’ The award credits their development of wave imaging and original algorithms to rapidly analyze moving objects in the environment, making possible a substantial reduction in real-world collisions.

It’s the first time a vehicle has been so efficiently rigged to read risk factors and movements with such minimal hardware. The live data stream can be instantly converted into lifesaving steering and braking decisions. Mercedes believes this technology could prevent thousands of accidents a year, particularly in those low-visibility conditions in which even the most conscientious driver can make critical mistakes, from rainstorms and nighttime to blind curves and busy intersections.

2014 S-Class: Intelligence in Action

The all-new 2014 S-Class will be the first to showcase the fruits of 6D Vision with the “Intelligent Drive” platform, the luxury sedan’s fully-networked safety suite. Intelligent Drive’s integrated components include lane-keeping and blind-spot assist, infrared night navigation, high-beam assist, adaptive cruise control and drowsiness detection. Many of these functions depend on inputs from the car’s six-dimensional vision.

The S-Class is an appropriate setting for the debut of the latest advances. S-Class sedans are often the company’s choice for test driving new safety inventions like 6D. In fact, the world’s first driverless car was an S-Class, way back in the 1980s. It was also the first car in Europe to carry air bags.

Professor Thomas Weber, Head of Group Research, Mercedes-Benz Cars Development, reflects on the capabilities of the anticipated S-Class: “This unrivaled interplay of highly advanced safety technology broadens the ‘senses’ of the automobiles and increases their intelligence.”

“It makes them ‘thinking’ partners that can see, feel, react reflexively, and act autonomously in order to support the driver actively in critical situations.”

The Future of Safety: Autonomous Driving?

Good sense has long underscored the importance of the driver to automobile safety. Despite some reservations, the overall prognosis is looking sunny for high-tech, intelligent safety features like 6D Vision. As states like California and Florida move to regulate autonomous vehicles, excitement about making the safety standards of the future today’s reality is gaining momentum. Keep an eye out in the near term for more record-breaking intelligence and unreal safety advances from the folks at Mercedes-Benz.

June 7, 2013May 7, 2015

Lexus Continues to Provide the Best: A Review of 2013 Lexus Hybrids

Lexus has distanced itself from every other luxury car maker with its winning commitment to advanced Lexus hybrid-electric cars. For the 2013 model year, this means that Lexus offers hybrids on nearly every model within the company’s lineup. As Lexus continues a blitz of new product launches, hybrids have taken a place that is unique in the industry as the ultra-luxury, range topping models within each lineup. More powerful than their gasoline counterparts as well as more efficient, Lexus hybrids have shaken off the sluggish reputation of hybrid technology and ushered in a new era where efficiency and power go hand in hand.

2013 Lexus CT 200h

At 43 city and 40 highway mpg, the CT 200h is the most efficient true luxury car on the market. With the Hybrid Synergy Drive powertrain it shares with the award-winning Prius, the Lexus is a more luxurious and sporty take on Toyota’s industry-standard hybrid. Its 134-horsepower gas-electric hybrid system and smooth CVT transmission makes the CT 200h is as agile a performer as its bold, iconoclastic exterior design suggests. New for 2013, Lexus’s Intuitive Parking Assist system uses sensors to detect distance to nearby vehicles and other obstructions. Audible tones and graphics on the center console display warn the driver of impending collisions.

Luxury features include a power sliding glass moon roof, Lexus Enform emergency telematics and infotainment system with “virtual concierge” features, smartphone-enhanced apps, and much more.

2013 Lexus ES 300h

The Lexus ES has undergone a complete redesign for the 2013 model year. It has transformed a car that has always been a leader in comfort and class to an even better performer as well. Suspension and steering response have been completely overhauled which ensures that the new-generation ES is as agile as it is comfortable. That includes the new Lexus ES 300h hybrid luxury sedan, the first time hybrid power has come to the ES lineup. At 40 city/39 highway mpg, it is remarkable for a sedan in its class with a combined peak output of 200 horsepower. The car drives and performs without the “trade-offs” hybrid drivers have come to expect. The new ES has migrated from Toyota’s midsize platform to a large car platform and now features nearly as much interior space as the cavernous LS flagship luxury car. Standard features include eco-friendly NuLuxe leatherette upholstery made from sustainable materials and easily renewable bamboo trim that is only available on the hybrid model, 17-inch alloy wheels, dual-zone automatic climate control, an eight-speaker premium audio system with USB/iPod and auxiliary inputs and a six-disc CD changer, Lexus Safety Connect, and more.

The option book also includes a premium Display Audio with navigation and Lexus Enform infotainment system with Lexus’s eyes-on-the-road Remote Touch control interface which helps to avoid distracted driving. True audiophiles can upgrade to the 15-speaker Mark Levinson surround sound stereo system.

2013 Lexus GS 450h

Think of the Lexus GS sedan lineup as the ES’s athletic big brother. Both are roomy, luxurious, efficient and feature top-shelf luxury, but while the ES is tuned more for comfortable cruising, the GS is a world-class sport sedan. Lexus has positioned the hybrid GS 450h as the more luxurious alternative to the V6-powered GS 350, with many option sheet items from that car equipped as standard equipment in the hybrid package. Like most top sport sedans, the GS 450h features rear-wheel drive and suspension response tuned for fun on twisty roads.

The car’s hybrid system combines a clean-burning Atkinson-cycle 3.5-liter V6 engine with dual electric motors which combine for a total system 338 peak horsepower. That’s enough grunt to provide a 5.6-second 0-60 mph dash. Forget conceptions you may hold about hybrids: this is a fine-crafted luxury sport sedan which returns an outstanding 29 city, 34 highway and 31 combined mpg.

2013 Lexus RX 450h

Among all Lexus hybrid vehicle offerings to date, the RX lineup has been by far the most successful. Consumers have fallen in love with this luxury crossover. The RX 450h is as efficient (31 combined mpg) as many tiny subcompact cars, despite its spacious seating for five adult passengers and a full 40 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seat. Fold that flat, and you’ll find 80.3 cubic feet behind the front seats.

With a revised exterior design and all-new interior for 2013, the RX 450h is more luxurious than ever before. Safety Connect emergency response comes standard, along with a nine-speaker audio system, a power lift gate, keyless entry and ignition, Bluetooth phone and streaming audio, and much more. To make the ordering process easier, the hybrid RX 450h is offered in a single trim level, with popular options grouped into packages. Among the highlights: Lexus Enform in-car app suite, a heads-up display, full leather seating and trim, adaptive cruise control and a 15-speaker surround sound system. The RX 450h is not just the finest hybrid crossover SUV on the market, it’s among the best all-around everyday luxury vehicles you’ll find at any price.

Lexus LS 600h L

Reviews for the 2013 Lexus LS 600h L series place a spotlight on internal and external upgrades. Vehicles are the fourth incarnation of sedans produced by Toyota’s luxury division. Sleek styling and whisper-soft operation make the LS 600h a thing of beauty.

United States consumers caught their first glimpse of the LS 600h in 2006 at the New York International Auto Show. The all-wheel drive design powers all four wheels for better traction on uneven terrain or during inclimate weather. A longer wheelbase offers more internal cabin space for increased passenger comfort.

Performance

According to Edmunds.Com, a 389 horsepower engine takes drivers from zero to 60 in approximately 5.5 seconds. A duel electric generator system provides engine and rear wheel power. Vehicle fuel economy is approximately 19 miles per gallon (mpg) within city limits and 23 mpg on the highway. Left Lane News indicates LS 600h models meet the criteria for Super Ultra Low Emission Vehicle II (SULEV II) certification, meaning the vehicles emit less harmful chemicals when compared with other new models.

External

External features include 19-inch alloy wheels and parking sensors to facilitate vehicle movement in tight spaces. Power trunk and keyless entry capabilities increase driver safety by reducing time spent fumbling with keys to open car locks. The blind-spot monitoring system offers cross-traffic alerts, a helpful feature at busy intersections. 2013 models also include updating of the signature Lexus front grille and chrome accents attaching the rear taillights.

Internal

Lexus 600h L drivers enjoy power-adjustable leather seats and a heated, leather steering wheel equipped with internal vehicle controls for heat / air, radio and hands-free telephone calls. The Lexus Enform entertainment center links to Bing and iHeartRadio. A voice-activated navigation system, Bluetooth capabilities and Mark Levinson audio system make every ride an indulgent adventure. Multiple airbags, traction control and brake assist maximize occupant safety.

Upgrades

Optional upgrades include premium packages with additional climate control and massage features. A rear-seat duel entertainment center plays digital video discs (DVDs) and features wireless headphones for a quiet, peaceful ride. An executive-seating option removes the center rear seat to create room for a wooden table and beverage cooler.

The Lexus LS 600h L series combines environmentally friendly technology with luxurious design. To quote Edmunds.Com: “…it should give any large luxury sedan a run for its considerable money.” Customers no longer have to choose between social consciousness and personal satisfaction.

See the 2013 Lexus hybrids for yourself at Park Place Lexus in Plano and Grapevine, TX.

May 30, 2013May 7, 2015

Maserati takes top honor in class as Robb Report’s Best of the Best Sedan

New York, NY –This month Robb Report introduces its 25th annual “Best of the Best” 2013 Luxury Portfolio. The newest edition of the magazine is a culmination of a year’s search for the most extraordinary new products and services. The issue is published each June as Robb Report’s monthly magazine.

The “Best of the Best” coverage—featuring comprehensive reviews by Robb Report’s editorial staff and a team of seasoned contributing writers—spans 26 product- and service-related categories within six departments: Wheels, Style, Journeys, Leisure, Home, and Wings & Water. Each category’s selections are based on set guidelines, outlined in each section’s cover page. Winners are chosen exclusively by Robb Report editors.

This year’s winner for Best of the Best Sedan is the all new Maserati Quattroporte.
With an outstanding selection of digital enhancements, Robb Report’s 25th annual “Best of the Best” signature issue offers tablet users an interactive look at this year’s winners. The iPad app—available in the iTunes App Store and offered for free to print subscribers—delivers unique content, including more than 50 videos, as well as slideshows and interactive pictures.
The iPad app is accessible at Robb Report iTunes .

About the 2014 Maserati Quattroporte:

The 2014 Maserati Quattroporte is a significant leap forward that not only sets the high-technology tone for the Trident brand’s upcoming range of new-models, but also remains faithful to Maserati’s long history of luxury sports sedans. The powerful and proprietary Maserati engines and the large cabin are at the core of the Quattroporte’s design. Dominated by a long, powerful nose and a concave Trident grille a clear link is created to both current and historic Maseratis.

The newly-developed direct-injection engine family boasts a 523 hp 3.8-litre V8 and a 404 hp 3.0-litre V6, both of which are twin-turbocharged, designed by Maserati Powertrain and assembled by Ferrari at their plant in Maranello. All versions come equipped with the latest eight-speed automatic transmission developed with ZF. The V8 is the fastest, most powerful and efficient four-door Maserati has ever built, reaching 60 mph in 4.6 seconds and achieving a top speed of 191 mph.

The all-new architecture retains the Quattroporte’s exquisite handling with near 50:50 weight distribution, double-wishbone front suspension and a state-of-the-art five-link rear suspension. The V6 twin turbo Q4 All-Wheel Drive variant is capable of a top speed of 177mph. The “Q4” system is capable of redistributing the torque instantly from full rear wheel drive to a balanced near 50/50 distribution between front and rear wheels when more traction is needed. New standards of quality in design, development, fabrication and process controls are employed in the facility building the Quattroporte, while traditional hand-crafted design continues inside and out of the Quattroporte’s cabin. Interior luxury leaps forward technically, too, with features like a touch control screen, adjustable pedals, WLAN-based WiFi and an optional 15-speaker, 1280 Watt Bowers & Wilkins audio system.

In 1963, Maserati established the benchmark for the luxury sports sedan. The new Quattroporte continues to elevate the standard of high quality engineering, supercar performance all within the space, luxury and daily driving ability of a sedan.

About Robb Report

Now in its 37th year, and with 12 international editions, Robb Report is the international authority on the luxury lifestyle. The brand, in its digital, iPad, tablet, and print forms, reports on exceptional products and services for the affluent connoisseur. Coverage includes automobiles, motorcycles, aircraft, art, dining, jewelry, watches, fashion, travel, homes, wines, spirits, cigars, and fine dining. For more information, visit the Robb Report website at www.robbreport.com.

About Maserati

Maserati produces a full line of two and four door models legendary for their spacious handcrafted luxury, thoroughbred performance and everyday usability. In 2013 Maserati introduced the full size Quattroporte and the midsize Ghibli sport sedans. Both are available with All Wheel Drive, a race bred twin turbo 404 HP V6 and an adaptive 8 speed automatic transmission. The flagship Quattroporte GTS leads the charge with a 523 HP twin turbo V8. The two door GranTurismo line continues with several variants of coupes and convertibles which combine elegance comfort for four with a six speed automatic transmission to keep the legendary Maserati performance and exhaust note close at hand.

See the current Park Place Maserati Inventory at http://maseratidallas.parkplacetexas.com/.

May 22, 2013May 7, 2015

Families Love the Volvo XC60 and XC70 Crossovers

SUVs have dominated the family vehicle category as their popularity continues to rise. Most buyers do not need to seat seven passengers but do enjoy the option of all-wheel drive. Now, the luxury segment is producing midsize crossovers with comfort and convenience. The Volvo XC60 and XC70, for instance, offer family utility with the rugged capability of an SUV.

The XC60 and XC70 are among the top choices for consumers because both have comfortable cabins and a host of unique features designed for family use. In keeping with Volvo’s reputation, they also earn great scores in safety tests. Although the crossover SUV has easily replaced station wagons as family vehicles, basic consumer needs have not strayed. The XC60 has the same role in the family as the old 740s, but with the addition of great styling.

The XC series inherits the Volvo wagon design legacy, and the XC70 is proof of this successful formula. Increased ride height and all-wheel-drive are optional, allowing the XC70 to offer guaranteed comfort to that out-of-the-way ski resort or off-road area. In addition to impressive aesthetics, the lower body panels are resistant to dents and come with skid plates to resist dirt accumulation. Practical cargo space layouts on all XC models provide better utility than those of most other competitors.

The XC60 sports the same modern look as its sibling with its soft curves and a number of details common to Swedish furniture. The luxury vibe results from trim accents and high quality materials.

XC models differ from the old wagons aesthetically but safety is still of the utmost importance. Like other Volvos, these SUVs received the maximum five star score in the recently revamped government safety tests. In addition, the XC models come with a number of features designed stop accidents from happening in the first place.

Safety seats are one of many major amenities for families. The XC60 includes two built-in booster seats for kids. Now, parents won’t need to constantly convert the rear seat to transport children or for an adult’s night out. Adults will find the spaciousness of the backseat equally comfortable.

There are many different choices available for a family luxury crossover vehicle. The Volvo XC60 and the Volvo XC70 provide great packaging and a driving experience that is impressively engaging. Both the XC60 and the XC70 are excellent options for anyone looking for an SUV attitude in a luxury wagon in the midsize segment.

May 10, 2013May 7, 2015

The 2013 Lexus ES350 Receives More Aggressive Styling, But Maintains Refined Plushness

In the 2013 model year, Lexus’ all-new Lexus ES350 features innovative and stylish updates to an already world-class luxury interior. Improving on an already popular vehicle, Lexus continues to push the envelope with refined design touches, all while maintaining the model’s signature refined plushness.

The ES350’s comfortable and luxurious interior will make you look forward to road trips and long holiday drives with the family. The rear seat is an on-road oasis, while the longer platform and sleek front seatback design offer class-leading legroom. Passengers will appreciate the generous headroom and rear-window sunshades.

For travel, trips to Austin, or even to the grocery store, the Lexus ES350 offers 12-15 cubic feet of storage space, which is enough to accommodate 9 airline carry-on bags, 4 golf bags or 18 standard grocery bags. A redesigned hinge creates a wider opening in the trunk, making loading and unloading easier than ever.

One of our favorite features, the Drive Mode Select, allows you to make the most of your driving experience. In the Eco mode, you’ll be able to conserve fuel and maximize your efficiency, while Sport mode makes your ES350 more responsive. The ability to personalize your driving experience gives the ES350 another luxurious and individualized touch.

The first-ever ES300h offers an outstanding 40 miles-per-gallon that outpaces even subcompact models and the ES300h has earned the stringent SULEV emissions status. The ES300h’s luxurious interior offers a hybrid driving experience no other model can match. What’s even better is no longer do drivers have to sacrifice eco-friendliness and fuel efficiency for luxury and sophistication the Lexus ES300h combines both seamlessly.

Improvements to the Lexus ES350 for the 2013 model year represent an aggressive commitment to luxury and quality. Its luxurious and roomy interior paired with the vehicle’s personalized drivability make the ES350 an easy choice for drivers who seek a sophisticated vehicle that makes eco-stylish driving a reality.

May 8, 2013May 7, 2015

The 2013 Phantom: Rolls Royce is Still The Car of Kings

Phantom Evolution

Phantom has always been aptly named. Like a spooky apparition it has disappeared and re-appeared numerous times over the last century. Through it all, the executive flagship has proudly displayed the signature Spirit of Ecstasy hood icon—a reassuring detail for every Rolls-Royce diehard.

As the first Rolls produced by German engineers after a century of British ownership, the Phantom defines the upper-crust marque as influenced by the house of BMW. How have they done?

In short, they’ve done a great job. 2013 marks a decade of extraordinary work on an old-world legend that was designed from the ground up to silence any who would threaten its throne. So far it’s worked.

With rear-wheel drive, a nearly 7-liter V12 engine, and upwards of 450 horsepower, you’d think the deluxe sedan was a sports car, but it’s not. The Phantom is more likely to be found dropping off movie stars on the red carpet. At least that’s what comes to mind when you first open her rear carriage doors. You’ll see the elegant 5-passenger cabin, masterfully lined with hand-sewn leathers and an optional overhead fiber optic “universe” of twinkling stars to complement the experience.

2013: Adjustments to a “Timeless Interpretation”

This year’s car of kings comes with some alterations in style for its Series II incarnation, including lighting changes to the preferred rectangular LED clusters. Adjustments were also made to Phantom’s bumpers and wheels, with expanded paint and polish options for the latter.

There’s no denying it: the Phantom is huge. In light of this fact, Rolls-Royce has made standard the comprehensive camera network that covers the vehicle from five different angles as a navigation aid.

In the interests of improved fuel efficiency, a worthy goal for a V12-powered beast like the Phantom, an eight-speed transmission plus rear differential were incorporated into the car’s drivetrain. The company also dutifully obliged special requests for larger computer screens inside the cabin and an accompanying remote control, which was delivered in chrome.

Phantom, either as sedan, coupe or convertible, already comes with a large number of options, including advanced sound, navigation, and climate systems optimized with the latest technological innovations. The popular Extended Wheelbase (EW) version of the car adds to an already spacious interior and an imposing car length. Customers can order a partition window for passenger privacy as well.

Have an idea for your car that’s not already offered? No problem. Phantom owners can customize their car down to the finest grain under the Bespoke program, which allows requests for custom extras that reflect a driver’s personal automotive style. It’s up to the customer’s imagination.

For many, the prestige of the Phantom will remain a Hollywood dream, but if you’re lucky enough to get your hands on a Phantom, you’ll own one of the most respected and customizable automobiles in the world.