Vehicles – Page 38 – Park Place Dealerships

January 7, 2013May 7, 2015

Volvo City Safety Technology approved by the NHTS and IIHS

For nearly a century, Volvo has been producing automobiles, and almost for the entire existence of the manufacturer Volvo cars have been known for being the safest on the market. This tradition of excellence continues into modern day with the introduction of the Volvo City Safety technology: the newest in groundbreaking technologies helping to preserve not just your car, but also the health of you and your family.
The core of City Safety is a laser, attached to the back of the rear view mirror and invisible to the naked eye, that scans the area one car length in front of the Volvo automobile. If the sensor notices that the car in front of the driver is stopped or slowing, it has the power to apply the brakes on its own in an attempt to avoid an accident. With a speed difference between the two automobiles of 9 miles per hour or less, City Safety will avoid an accident outright. At speeds of up to 19 miles per hour, it is unable to avoid an accident, but the perfect response time of the system will result in far less damage than sustained with the system keeping watch.

There are some limitations on the system: at speeds of 20 MPH or above, City Safety will not automatically apply the brakes, due to the dangers of braking without driver expectation at that speed as well as the risk of false positives when scanning at an increased distance. It will also not notice a pedestrian or other small object in front of the car, limiting only to what it is sure is an automobile.

Nevertheless, the data about City Safety’s effect on the accident rates is in, and it is extremely positive. The Highway Loss Data Institute, the information-gathering arm of the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, found that automobiles equipped with Volvo City Safety suffer 27% fewer property damage claims than those without, compared with comparable midsize SUVs from other manufacturers as well as Volvo cars without the feature. Even more impressively, bodily injury liability claims were reduced by a staggering 51% thanks to accidents greatly reduced in severity by the earlier automatic braking.

City Safety was introduced in 2010, appearing on Volvo XC60 midsize SUVs with S60 sedans joining in 2011 and XC70 wagons and S80 sedans being equipped for 2012. For the kinds of low-speed impacts that City Safety prevents, human reaction time is one of the greatest challenges; the automatic braking is activated with the instant reaction time of a computer, the driver is not aware it is happening until the accident has already been avoided. The braking power is strong at 50% of maximum in which the driver will receive a jerk forward, but it will never be so violent as to cause him/her to impact the steering wheel or dashboard under normal circumstances. A light on the dashboard will alert the driver after City Safety activates.

Since the laser used is infrared, it is invisible to both the driver and all oncoming motorists – no one will be distracted by a red light flashing in their eyes as you approach. It works equally well in both day and night conditions. Since it only has to read eighteen feet in front of the car, most inclement weather will not affect it, but very heavy rain or snow may impede its performance. It is specially configured to avoid activating when attempting to park or weaving through parked cars, and can be temporarily overridden by pressing on the accelerator – but there is no way to deactivate it for good, as it will turn on again the next time the car is started.

The effects on insurance claims are clear: drivers of Volvos with City Safety file fewer claims and recover less insurance money than those without the feature. Interestingly, even though the total amount claimed for insurance is lower, the amount of the average claim is about 10% higher than other vehicles, which means the system is working. City Safety avoids the small claims for fender benders by avoiding those accidents entirely the claims that do get filed tend to be for more serious damage.

For now, the effect on insurance rates is negligible as the IIHS examines the data, but there is reason to believe you may end up saving on insurance payments in the long run. The National Highway Traffic Safety Institute recently released their own report stating that the system reduces low-speed collision severity and eliminates many collisions entirely, strengthening the argument for reduced insurance payments in the near future.

Regardless of the immediate savings on insurance payments, the time and headaches saved from avoiding fender benders and the additional safety afforded to you and your family make the City Safety technology an invaluable asset in your new Volvo.

January 7, 2013May 7, 2015

The Timeless Mercedes-Benz Gullwing: A Legend Reborn

1954 Mercedes-Benz 300SL AMG Gullwing — Photo Source: http://www.sportscardigest.com/2009-automobiles-london-auction-results-rm-auctions/

When car enthusiasts think of Mercedes-Benz, they often picture the iconic “wings” of the classic 300SL Gullwing rising into the air, as if preparing for takeoff. First released in 1954, this vehicle marked the beginning of the now revered Mercedes-Benz SL-Class and was considered the fastest, most advanced production vehicle of its time.

The 300SL was born from a racing heritage, and has speed engrained in its genes. It may surprise some people then, to find out that the car donned an unassuming 3.0 liter, six-cylinder engine churning out 215 horsepower. This may not sound impressive at all by today’s standards, but it was leaps and bounds ahead of comparable sports cars at the time. The car’s minimal weight (just 3,400 pounds) and sophisticated aerodynamics were in line with the SL, or “Sports Light” badge, and contributed greatly to its exceptional quickness, balance, and cornering ability. To put things in perspective, its 160 mph top speed was enough to shatter the previous record by a production vehicle and it pioneered the first-ever direct-injection system on an automotive application.

Many vehicles have recently adopted direct-injection technology because of its advantages in performance and fuel efficiency; all of these modern manufacturers owe a tip of the hat to Mercedes-Benz and the car that started it all.

Most Collectors and enthusiasts consider the 300SL to be the greatest all-around sports car of the 20th century. Today, a classic Gullwing can roll across the auction block for nearly $1 million, without breaking a sweat. Less than 1500 were built, so it comes as no surprise that these cars are highly desired and rarely go up for sale. If you’re looking to buy one, you might have better luck searching the obituaries instead of the classified section.

Road & Track magazine raved after an initial review of the 300SL, and had the following to say: “We are looking at a car where a comfortable interior is complemented by remarkably impressive handling characteristics, quite incredible roadholding, light and precise steering, and performance levels which are up there with – and even an improvement on – the best cars the automotive industry has to offer. There is only one thing left to say: the sports car of the future has become a reality.”

Moving forward, we see the future of the 300SL coming to fruition. The recently released 2013 SLS AMG® GT is the physical and spiritual predecessor to the Gullwing, and embodies all that made the original 300SL such an incredibly special car. Who says perfection can’t be improved upon? From its sultry curves and timeless styling, to its cutting-edge power plant and drive-train, the SLS AMG GT mirrors the idea behind the original 300SL and defines the parameters for what a sports car should be.

A quick glance at the SLS will leave no doubt about its lineage. Its traits are unmistakable: The impossibly long hood, the small, two seat cockpit and tiny trunk, the suave, rounded curves, the low-slung center of gravity, and of course, the often imitated Gullwing doors. All of it nods to the original 300SL. However, there is something more dark and ominous about the SLS. Its aggressive body lines and widened, ground-hugging stance indicate that it is a different beast than the 300SL. Each vehicle was shaped by the principals of its performance, and the SLS quite literally screams that it was built for more power and greater handling control. It is essentially a modern 300SL on steroids.

The angry, snarling exhaust note on the SLS is similar to the original Gullwing in its ferocity, but what lies under the long, sleek hood is another animal altogether. A high-revving 6.3-Liter AMG V8 pumps out a ground-pounding 583 horsepower and 479 pound-feet of torque; its broad power-band is enough to send the SLS past 60 mph in just 3.3 seconds. This engine is the most powerful naturally-aspirated V8 ever stuffed into a production vehicle, and marks a momentous achievement in technological design and engineering.

As one might expect, the direct-injection technology first seen in the 300SL is carried over into the SLS. Other elements also set the car apart from its competition, including a dry-sump lubrication system, a 7-Speed dual-clutch trans-axle which shifts at a lightning-quick 100 milliseconds, a double-wishbone suspension system with electronically-controlled adaptive damping, carbon-ceramic brakes, the list goes on and on.

All of this performance does not come at the price of everyday drivability. Just as the 300SL was built to take a beating, the SLS was created as a true driver’s car, reliable enough to be driven daily, and tough enough for a weekend trip to the track and back. It was built to display extreme endurance without missing a beat.

The AMG division of Mercedes-Benz has outdone themselves with the 2013 SLS AMG GT. It represents all of the ideals that a sports-exotic should, and smashes any competition in the process. Faster cars lack its graceful styling and class, and more luxurious cars cannot match its balance of power and agility. Simply put, the SLS AMG GT is one of the most advanced, well-rounded vehicles ever built.

January 2, 2013May 7, 2015

New Flagship Bentley Convertible Announced: Continental GT Speed Convertible

Bentley Continental GT Speed Convertible

Speed is embedded in Bentley’s history. The name dates back to our founder W.O. Bentley’s 3 Litre Speed of 1925 and the Le Mans 24 Hour race-winning Speed Six. Then as now, the pursuit of performance was balanced by the quest for refinement.

Today’s Continental GT Speed Convertible is a worthy successor. Its exceptional performance is allied to an eight-speed all-wheel drive transmission, which delivers reassuring stability year round. The Speed chassis tune delivers thrilling agility and clarity of feedback, yet also rides harsh road surfaces with supple resilience. Even the exhaust note, deeper and more exhilarating under hard acceleration, is civilised and refined during high-speed cruising. As a result, the Continental GT Speed Convertible is capable of devastating acceleration and enduring pace in equal measure, whilst at the same time, its hand-crafted interiors and supportive sports seating provide supreme comfort over long distances.

Designing a convertible combining these levels of performance and refinement brings its own unique challenges. Fortunately, Bentley has an unequalled history when it comes to convertibles, and the GT Speed Convertible is the latest, fastest and most thoughtfully-executed of all. Drive it with the hood down and a new dimension is revealed. You’re no longer an observer of the passing landscape but a part of it, with every aspect of your journey – especially the thrilling sound track – amplified in the open air. However, should you choose to close the roof, the levels of refinement, acoustic insulation and cosseting comfort provided are truly exceptional

View original article on BentleyMotors.com.

December 26, 2012May 7, 2015

Park Place Motorsports To Debut in 51st Rolex 24 At Daytona

No. 73 Porsche GT3 fielded by Park Place Motorsports in the GRAND-AM Rolex Sports Car Series. (Photo Credit: Park Place Motorsports)

Park Place Motorsports To Debut in 51^st Rolex 24 At Daytona

New Team To Field Porsche GT3 in GRAND-AM Rolex Sports Car Series GT Division with

Drivers Patrick Long, Spencer Pumpelly, Patrick Lindsey, Jason Hart and Daniel Graeff

Park Place Motorsports’ ‘Arrive & Drive’ Program Offers Full-Service Support for Motorsports Enthusiasts

DALLAS (Dec. 18, 2012) – Park Place Motorsports will make its GRAND-AM Rolex Sports Car Series debut in the 51^st running of the Rolex 24 At Daytona Jan. 26-27. The former Horton Autosport team is an extension of Dallas-based Park Place Dealerships, which represents upscale manufacturers Porsche, McLaren, Mercedes-Benz, Jaguar, Lexus, Bentley, Maserati, Lotus, Rolls-Royce, Volvo and Smart.

Park Place Motorsports will campaign a Porsche GT3 in the 24-hour marathon around the 3.56-mile, 12-turn road course at Daytona (Fla.) International Speedway with an impressive driver lineup that includes three Rolex 24 victories. Porsche factory driver Patrick Long headlines the effort, along with Porsche specialist Spencer Pumpelly, Patrick Lindsey, Jason Hart and Daniel Graeff.

Long, the only American factory driver for the German manufacturer, is a three-time American Le Mans Series (ALMS) GT2 champion (2005, 2009 and 2010) and winner of the 2009 Rolex 24 in a Porsche GT3. That victory completed Long’s cycle of winning each of sports car racing’s modern endurance classics, as the California native claimed victories in the 12 Hours of Sebring (2005), 24 Hours of Le Mans (2004 and 2007) and Petit Le Mans (2005, 2006 and 2007).

Joining Long will be Pumpelly, who owns two Rolex 24 wins (2006 and 2011), both in the GT category. They are among 19 professional victories Pumpelly has scored in GRAND-AM and ALMS competition. A degree in economics from James Madison University makes Virginia-born Pumpelly equally eclectic as Long, who is fluent in English, German, French and Italian.

Continuing the worldly attributes of Park Place Motorsports’ driver lineup is Californian Lindsey, whose day job is working on Wall Street as he balances a burgeoning racing career that has taken him to GRAND-AM. In 2012, Lindsey co-drove the No. 73 Horton Autosport Porsche GT3 to six top-12 finishes in 11 outings.

Hart was born into a Porsche racing family in Northern California. He has been racing Porsches and countless other makes since his career started in 1995. Ready to race anything anywhere, his motorsports background includes ASCS Sprint Cars, USAC Midgets, go-karts, sports cars, vintage racing cars and even off-road vehicles, as the versatile driver scored a victory in the Class 4 division of the 2011 Baja 1000

Graeff rounds out the team’s Rolex 24 effort. The California native will make his fifth career Rolex 24 start in 2013. In addition to his sports car racing experience, Graeff has raced everything from motocross to stock cars, recently competing in the NASCAR K&N Pro Series West.

Park Place Motorsports augments the unparalleled service its dealerships provide by offering customers a premium level of support in relation to their motorsports activities. It’s why the team partnered with Horton Autosport, an innovative operation that incorporated leading-edge technologies to quickly rise from start-up outfit to experienced contender.

“In our dealerships and on the racetrack, we’re committed to the highest quality standards. Our driver lineup for the Rolex 24 At Daytona is a perfect example of that commitment,” said Alex Whitman, director, Park Place Motorsports. “We go above and beyond our competitors and focus each and every day on the hundreds of details that add up to an unparalleled ownership experience. And for many Park Place customers, that experience involves motorsports. It’s in the DNA of the cars we sell and in the DNA of our customers.”

Beyond its flagship racing team that will compete in the twice-around-the-clock endurance race at Daytona, Park Place Motorsports delivers a line of full-service solutions to motorsports enthusiasts at every level, from the racing novice to the experienced professional racer, all at a level of service consistent with the exceptional customer experience Park Place dealerships have provided for more than 20 years. Offerings include:

Service and Repair: Park Place Motorsports mechanics will service motorsports-related vehicles as needed or in conjunction with existing service intervals. The broad scope of service and repair Park Place Motorsports offers clients range from basic fluid replacement to complete repairs, including vehicle body and structure.

Driver and Racecar Support: Park Place Motorsports manages as many processes as the client wishes, from one-off support such as racecar setup, to all-encompassing arrive-and-drive-programs.

Parts Engineering and Distribution: Park Place Motorsports has a line of Park Place Motorsports-branded parts, specifically engineered for high-performance and racing applications.

These services will be authentically promoted by Park Place Motorsports’ GT team in GRAND-AM. The same Porsche 911 GT3 Long, Pumpelly, Lindsey, Hart and Graeff will race at Daytona was built and maintained in the same facility as Park Place Motorsports’ customer cars.

“Having an in-house race team exposes us to emerging technologies in real-time while providing real-world applications for those technologies,” Whitman said. “What we learn with our race team and the experience our engineers and professional drivers can provide to our customers is unmatched. It allows a Park Place customer to get the most out of his or her car and the most out of themselves. And the best part is that all of our expertise is under one roof and available to our customers.”

Park Place Motorsports is a unique offshoot for a car dealership. But with its lineup of high-performance cars in a region where there are more than 250 Porsches licensed to race by Porsche Club of America, creating a division catering to racers who buy their personal cars and racecars from Park Place Dealerships is not only a sound business decision, but a savvy one, as well.

“Having qualified support at and away from the track is one of the primary detractors in motivating new entrants into motorsports. We fill that void by managing any and all wants of the customer,” Whitman said. “We have a centralized location, a dynamic product line, an unmatched client experience and an unrelenting effort to become a leader in the racing industry. It’s what makes Park Place Motorsports stand out.”

About Park Place Motorsports:

Park Place Motorsports is an extension of Dallas-based Park Place Dealerships, which represents upscale manufacturers Porsche, McLaren, Mercedes-Benz, Jaguar, Lexus, Bentley, Maserati, Lotus, Rolls-Royce, Volvo and Smart. Park Place Motorsports augments the unparalleled attention its dealerships provide by offering customers a premium level of support in relation to their motorsports activities. Services include maintenance and repair, driver and racecar support, and parts engineering and distribution. These offerings are authentically promoted by Park Place Motorsports’ flagship GT team in the GRAND-AM Rolex Sports Car Series.

December 26, 2012May 7, 2015

Delicious Food, Good Friends, A Worthy Cause and New Cars Equal Community Togetherness

On the evening of November 15^th, the lights of Park Place Lexus were shining well into the night as the dealership welcomed hundreds of the Lexus LS enthusiasts who’ve made Park Place their preferred dealer over the years.

With the holiday season creeping in closely, the event presented a cheerful, vibrant feel. As guests sipped on “Luxuritas,” made with Avion Tequila and listened to the quirky, stringed renditions of “Hotel California,” in the background, Park Place heralded the arrival of the holiday party season as much as it did the arrival of a new version of their signature vehicle.

Avion wasn’t the only non-vehicular brand representing itself capably during the party. Providing a scrumptious array of cuisine was chef Kent Rathbun and his crew. The Rathbun catering crew’s inventive take on sliders and decadent mac ‘n cheese made with gruyere highlighted, why it is that Rathbun’s name is culinary gold. especially in Collin County where his Jasper’s is a top destination. If nothing else, the savory bites were evidence enough that Thursday night was more than a simple gathering of loyal customers. If the mac ‘n cheese was decadent, then the offerings from Allen’s Sublime Chocolates were downright criminal. Make no mistake; the well-appointed showroom was transformed into a foodie haven as well as a welcome spot for LS lovers.

Many of the people who made their way into the showroom have come to know one another over the years, not simply by their automotive affiliation, but by their dedication to worthy causes in Collin County. Perhaps the new LS and Rathbun’s delicacies have far-reaching brand power, but the most important name of the night belonged to the Collin County Children’s Advocacy Center (CCCAC) an organization that’s helped countless families for 20 years.

The CCCAC has been the saving grace for children victimized by abuse and are in need of assistance when a helping hand seems far away. Lynn McLean, the Center’s CEO, was on-hand to ensure the mission of the cause she leads reaches to as many people in the community as possible.

McLean spoke to us for a few moments as her team sold fund-raising raffle tickets. While winning a new Lexus or choice seats to the area’s top ballet are fantastic rewards, McLean makes it clear that the people who purchasing raffle tickets that night were satisfied with the prize of knowing they are directly assisting neighboring families by helping to create a safe, nurturing place that can help in ways no other center in North Texas can.

For McLean, the relationship between Park Place Lexus and the center, which began rather serendipitously, has turned into something that displays a community that’s fully united for this much-needed cause.

“A few years ago, the Center purchased a Lexus from Park Place to raffle off as the grand prize at our annual Gala in order to create some real excitement,”

“Having the Lexus for our raffle not only created the excitement we hoped it would, but for the last three years, the Dallas/Fort Worth Lexus Dealerships have donated a car for our raffle’s grand prize, which has just been an amazing gift, and it’s made this partnership such a strong one. Thanks to this relationship, we’re able to create a greater amount of awareness for the Center than ever before. For us, and the resources we provide, creating awareness is so very important.”

Evidence of the synergy that’s developed between Park Place Lexus, the loyal LS customers and the Collin County Children’s Advocacy Center was in plain sight for each attendee to see as they walked into the showroom’s main doors. A gleaming, white Lexus convertible was surrounded by donations from the night’s attendees for the Advocacy Center’s Rainbow Room. The Rainbow Room is the arm of the Center that answers the most urgent needs of the kids and families who seek help on a daily basis. Clothing, toys and an assortment of necessary items were piled high and ready to be taken to the Center. Such a visual was yet another profound reminder that Thursday night’s soiree was a time for community action, and not merely a glitzy, new model roll-out.

Jordan Case, president of Park Place Lexus, was visibly excited about the 2013 Lexus LS, but he was more interested in speaking to us about the evening’s clear sense of community and the appreciation he feels for Park Place being able to help create that.

“Many of our customers here tonight are involved not only with the Advocacy Center but with other charitable organizations as well,” says Case. “This type of involvement is a key way in which we keep in-touch with so many of our great customers.”

Case goes on to acknowledge the bigger picture that helps all involved.

“We’ve purposely not invested very much into traditional advertising. Being involved and giving back to the community that we’re a part of is a great way to see the efforts of everyone come full-circle.”

December 20, 2012May 7, 2015

Lexus Magazine: Top Ten Coolest Lexus Features Of All Time

Lexus Magazine recently took on the task of digging through the plethora of innovative features that Lexus has introduced over the years to rank the top ten “Coolest Lexus Features Of All Time”, and we believe they did an incredible job laying out these ground breaking features that have been found in Lexus vehicles over the years.

Here’s a list of the top ten, but you can find more information about each individual feature in the original article at the Lexus Magazine website.

3. A car that can stop by itself (from speeds below 24 miles per hour)

6. Shiatsu Massage/Reclining Ottoman Seat

December 17, 2012May 7, 2015

Last Lexus LFA Rolls Out Of Production With The 500 Badge

Originally slated for a run of 500, the final Lexus LFA has completed production in the LFA workshop, and will be on it’s way soon to it’s new owner, proudly wearing the LFA 500 badge.

The LFA marked a major shift in direction for Lexus, but the end of production does not mean the end of innovation. 2013 has shown many brilliant updates to the Lexus model line, and you can expect them to keep coming. Take quick look at concepts like the LF-LC and the LF-CC, and anyone can see that the future of innovation in Lexus cars is going to continue at an exciting pace.

According to Lexus, “Future Lexus vehicles will reflect the technological skills gained during the development and production of the LFA—in particular manufacturing know-how for carbon fiber reinforced plastic parts—as well as a philosophy of car design for delivering exhilarating and stimulating driving performance.”

December 1, 2012May 7, 2015

The Importance Of OEM Parts In Automotive Repair

Over the past few months, an important issue has come to light that concerns the safety of many Americans who have had their vehicles repaired in the last three years, utilizing non-oem replacement airbags. The following is an excerpt from a Fox News article with details about this concern, as well as an NHTSA video showing the potential dangers of these counterfeit airbags during testing.

“Only 0.1 percent of the U.S. vehicle fleet is believed to be affected, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration said in a statement. But industry officials briefed by the government said tens of thousands of car owners may be driving vehicles with counterfeit air bags. NHTSA testing has shown most of the counterfeit bags don’t inflate or fail to inflate properly. In at least one case, a counterfeit bag fired shards of metal shrapnel on impact, the agency said.

NHTSA is asking car owners to check a government website, www.Safercar.gov, for information on how to contact a call center established by auto manufacturers to learn if their vehicle model is among those for which counterfeit air bags are known to have been made.”

To read the full article, along with a list of vehicles that may have been effected by these counterfeit airbags, click here to visit the FoxNews.com website.

November 21, 2012May 7, 2015

Motor Trend Sport/Utility of the Year: 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class

Against a field of 11 competitors for the coveted 2013 Motor Trend Sport/Utility of the Year® award, one clear winner stood above the rest, the 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class. In Motor Trend’s annual weeklong SUV battle royale, Sport/Utility offerings from various manufacturers are put through a battery of tests, outlining six criteria that provide objective insight into scoring the best of the best.

The six key criteria comprising the competition are Design Advancement, Engineering Excellence, Performance of Intended Function, Efficiency, Safety, and Value, all playing important roles in selection of the vehicle worthy of the distinction. Scoring highest overall, the 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class, regardless of package or engine option, proved to do “more of what we expect an SUV to do” according to Motor Trend’s Frank Markus.

Available with a 240hp diesel V-6 in the GL350 BlueTEC, 362hp or 429hp biturbo gasoline V-8’s in the GL450 and GL550 respectively, matched to a reengineered paddle-shift 7-speed automatic transmission providing smoother shifting and higher efficiency, all available packages were tested, and were collectively impressive throughout the competition. For those looking for efficiency, the BlueTEC equipped model returned an impressive 18.5mpg, besting several competitors equipped with smaller, less powerful engine options.

Beyond power and off-road capability, the GL-Class didn’t disappoint on the open road either. Drives down the highway and through winery roads, used as the proving grounds for testing, gave testers seat time to enjoy the beautifully engineered chassis and suspension. According to Motor Trend’s Mike Floyd, the 2013 GL-Class provides “An ueber-smooth ride, even in sport mode. You just float down the highway on a cloud and in silence.”

Hearing the glaring accolades from these seasoned testers can surely give you a sense of what Motor Trend’s 2013 Sport/Utility of the Year®, the Mercedes-Benz GL-Class, has to offer, but the easiest way to understand what makes the GL-Class experience marvelous, is to simply get behind the wheel and enjoy it for yourself. For more information on the 2013 GL-Class, or to schedule a test drive, visit us at your nearest Park Place Motorcars location in Dallas, Ft. Worth, or Grapevine, or on our website at www.ParkPlaceTexas.com. If you are interested in purchasing a ne GL-Class, click here to view our 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class Inventory.

November 16, 2012May 7, 2015

Dallas come check out the all new 2013 Lexus LS

With its dynamic handling, bold new design and superior craftsmanship, the 2013 LS flagship models hail the future of the Lexus brand as it embarks on its third decade in the premium luxury category.

Overview

While retaining many of the qualities that have defined Lexus for more than 20 years, the LS reaches new heights with an exciting blend of beautiful design, modern refinement and advanced technology.

The 2013 LS line-up includes the LS 460, LS 460L, LS 600hL hybrid, and the first-ever LS 460 F SPORT. LS 460 and LS 460L are available in RWD and AWD. The LS Hybrid is available with a full-time AWD system.

The all-new LS 460 F SPORT combines a more aggressive exterior with a unique sport interior featuring F SPORT seats with larger bolsters, a leather-wrapped steering wheel with paddle shifters and genuine aluminum trim. With a sport tuned air suspension that has been lowered 0.4 inches, a Torsen® limited slip rear differential (RWD model), Brembo six-piston caliper brakes, and 19” forged wheels with summer or all-season tires, the LS F SPORT promises to be the most engaging LS ever.

The entire 2013 LS lineup is refined with dynamic, fresh styling that reflects the bold new face of Lexus. The aggressive spindle grille gives the new LS a greater road presence and stronger brand identity while heralding a significant improvement in driving dynamics, responsiveness and handling.

Increased body rigidity enhances stability, and allows for a more comfortable ride. Pitch and bounce control has been enhanced by adopting new frequency dependent shock absorbers, resulting in an even flatter, road-hugging ride. Revised steering offers improvements in accuracy and turn-in response. The braking system has been adjusted for more immediate power and greater pedal feel.

Available safety enhancements include the industry’s most advanced Pre-Collision Safety (A-PCS) system with Collision Avoidance Assist. This system is designed to assist the driver in avoiding or mitigating collisions with vehicles and pedestrians under a wide range of city and highway speeds. At speeds lower than 24 miles per hour, this technology helps the LS to avoid accidents by automatically bringing the LS to a full stop.

The driver-focused interior integrates modern refinement with intuitive technology. The Advanced Illumination System (AIS), an all-LED interior lighting system, illuminates to greet the approaching occupants and then fades in sequence with the vehicle starting procedure.

The new, available Lexus Climate Concierge offers maximum comfort for every LS occupant. The customizable system uses multiple sensors to automatically regulate not only the temperature of the cabin, but also the climate control seats and the heated steering wheel, quickly bringing each occupant to their preferred temperature.

The standard navigation system is displayed on a 12.3-inch, split-screen, high-resolution multi-media display which is large enough to support simultaneous viewing of a large map display and other vehicle functions.

A next-generation Remote Touch, with one-push confirmation, is standard on all models and enables smooth, intuitive control of many vehicle systems. The Remote Touch allows the user to operate the climate, audio, phone controls, navigation system and more. The screen menus are selected with a controller conveniently located within easy reach on the center console. A number of well-placed buttons on the steering wheel and instrument panel enable the direct control of frequently used functions (e.g. temperature setting, fan speed, preset audio stations, etc.)

Lexus Enform® with App Suite leverages the customers’ mobile phone technology to provide a new level of connectivity and information management. Users can conduct local searches through Bing™, utilize voice-enabled apps to make restaurant reservations through OpenTable®, get movie tickets via MovieTickets.com, tap into internet radio, including Pandora® or iHeartRadio, search business reviews on Yelp and check in on Facebook places. A one-year trial subscription is included for the App Suite.

Cnet.com writes, “With this generation of Lexus, the automaker has managed to inject the LS with quite a bit of style and technology, which adds quite a bit to this model’s (and this brand’s) desirability.” Furthermore, Time listed the Lexus LS 460 as one of the “Top New Cars of 2013.” Check out Lexus flagship’s revolutionary, bold-defining new design at Park Place Lexus Plano or Park Place Lexus Grapevine.

Interior

This is a sampling of some of the interior features you’ll find in the 2013 Lexus LS.

Interior colors: Colors vary based on trim. Available interior colors include Parchment Leather, Light Gray Leather, Flaxen Leather, Black Leather, Black / Saddle Tan Leather, Black with White Perforations.

Interior trim: Trim availability depends on model and options. Available trims include Dark Brown Walnut, Matte Bamboo, Shimamoku Espresso Wood, Matte Dark Brown Ash Burl, Genuine Aluminum.

Seating: Rear seats include four-zone climate control, power-adjustable outboard seats, power rear and rear-door sunshades, and wood-trimmed climate and audio controls.

Navigation system: The voice-activated Navigation System — recognizes over 100 voice commands — uses a hard drive to store maps and data. On its high-resolution 12.3-inch color display, the system can map over 8 million points of interest and display information in French and Spanish

Lexus Enform and Safety Connect: The available Lexus Enform and Safety Connect provide live, 24-hour navigation assistance that can be requested at the press of a button. With the new App Suite, you can make dinner reservations and order movie tickets from within the 2013 Lexus LS. The LS includes a one-year trial subscription of Lexus Enform App Suite with Bing, iHeartRadio, MovieTickets.com, OpenTable, Pandora, Yelp and Facebook Places.

Bluetooth: With a Bluetooth-compatible phone, you can access your address book contacts on the Navigation System display or by voice command.

Multimedia: Multimedia includes the Navigation System with a Remote Touch device, 12.3-inch multimedia center-console display with integrated backup camera and Enhanced Bluetooth technology. The sound system is a Lexus 10-speaker Premium Sound System with Digital Sound Processor, Automatic Sound Levelizer (ASL), HD Radio with iTunes tagging and DVD/CD player. SiriusXM Satellite Radio is available with a subscription. A 90-day trial subscription is included. The available 19-speaker 450-watt Mark Levinson Premium Surround Sound Audio System rivals the finest concert halls.

Exterior

This is sampling of some of the exterior features you’ll find in the 2013 Lexus LS.

Exterior colors: These are some of the colors available as they vary based on trims. Starfire Pearl, Liquid Platinum, Nebula Gray Pearl, Obsidian, Matador Red Mica, Satin Cashmere Metallic, Fire Agate Pearl, Deep Sea Mica, Ultra White.

High Intensity Discharge (HID) headlamps: High and low beams use HID technology lamps, standard in Lexus LS, to help the driver with perception, clarity and contrast when driving at night.

Adaptive Front Lighting System: Adaptive Front Lighting System turns the headlights in the direction you’re steering.

Acoustic glass windshield: The windshield isn’t just a window. It also contributes to providing the quiet ride, even at highway speeds.

Wheels: The Lexus LS has 18-inch cast alloy wheels precisely offset to fit flash with the flared fenders. 19-inch allow wheels are available. The 19-inch split 10-spoke forged wheel is standard in the LF SPORT.

Spindle grill: This styling presents a more aerodynamic, functional and distinctive look for the new Lexus LS.

Safety

This is sampling of some of the safety features in the 2013 Lexus LS.

LED Lamps: The new LS is the first Lexus to offer energy-efficient LEDs for all exterior lamps, including available headlamps, foglamps, rear combination lamps, and the puddle lamps under the side mirrors. They light up faster than conventional bulbs, making it easier for others to see your car when you hit the brakes.

Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD): This computer-controlled system adapts the amount of pressure to the brakes to help enhance control during braking.

Smart Stop Technology: Smart Stop Technology automatically reduces engine power when the brake pedal is firmly applied, even if the accelerator pedal is fully pressed.

Intuitive Park Assist: For help with parking tasks like parallel parking, this uses sensors to detect surrounding objects and alert the driver of a detect object’s location and proximity.

Vehicle Stability Control: Detects sideslip of the wheels during cornering, and helps to control it using engine power modulation and selective application of individual brakes. It works with anti-lock braking and traction control to help improve driver control under certain conditions.

Brake Assist: Brake Assist senses a panic-stop scenario by analyzing how quickly and forcefully the driver hits the brake pedal. It automatically applies increased braking boost until the driver releases pedal pressure.

Rear Cross-Traffic Alert: When you’re backing out of a parking spot, the available Rear Cross-Traffic Alert notifies you of approaching vehicles that might be out of camera view.

Performance

2013 Lexus LS 460. The direct-injected 4.6-liter, 386-hp ULEV II V8 engine pairs with an eight-speed automatic transmission. This produces low emissions and Lexus-renowned smooth and quiet ride. The rear-wheel-drive model gets 367 lb-ft of torque @ 4,100.

2013 Lexus LS F SPORT. The direct-injected 4.6-liter, 386-hp V8 engine pairs with an eight-speed sequential-shift automatic and Electronically Controlled Transmission (ECT-i). It also includes paddle shifters and downshift rev-matching for more precise shifting. The F SPORT features Brembo Front Brakes clamped down by six-piston front calipers.

On rear-wheel drive models, the F SPORT’s torque-sensing limited-slip rear differential distributes power to the right and left wheels to help improve traction and stability in corners without interrupting power output. The rear-wheel-drive F SPORT gets 367 lb-ft of torque @ 4,100.

2013 Lexus LS 600h Hybrid. The 5.0-liter V8 gasoline engine is mated to hybrid technology to generate a total of 438 hp. The hybrid transmission is an Electronically-controlled Continuously Variable Transmission (ECVT) with two-speed reduction and Snow mode. Fuel economy is 19 mpg city, 23 mpg highway and 20 mpg combined.