The Most Powerful AMG Ever Is Electric: Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Electric Drive At 2012 Paris Motor Show

electric mercedes AMG concepts

electric mercedes AMG concepts

The incredible electric vehicles presented by Mercedes-Benz at the 2012 Paris Motor Show promise to be some of the most impressive electric vehicles ever presented, and the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Electric Drive boasts horsepower numbers that bring it to the top of the AMG Supercar ranks, besting even the amazing V-12 powerplant currently available. The gorgeous blue hue that covered these cars at the Motor Show is a clear hint that driving one of them will be a truly electrifying experience. Read below to see what Motor Trend had to say about the coming electric supercar from Mercedes-Benz.

“Unveiled at the 2012 Paris Motor Show is the most powerful AMG production car to date. It will not depend on a gas gulping V-12 nor boost from large turbos. As the name suggests, the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Electric Drive is propelled by four electric motors with a total output of 740 hp and 738 lb-ft of torque, making it the most powerful (and eco-friendly) beast to come from the folks at Affalterbach.”

Read more: http://www.motortrend.com/auto_shows/paris/2012/1209_mercedes_benz_sls_amg_electric_drive/#ixzz28Fc5HNSm

2013 Lexus ES350 Available in Dallas at Park Place Lexus

2013 Lexus ES 350

The new Lexus ES 350 mid-size sedan defies expectations with its stirring performance and a body that makes an indelible impression wherever it rolls.

10-2013-Lexus-ES-350-Front-Side-Angle-300x200

Overview

Not only does the completely redesigned 2013 Lexus ES 350 leave behind an unforgettable impression everywhere it travels, but it also renders its drivers and passengers speechless with its quiet velvety ride and luxurious amenities. This popular Lexus vehicle is for sale at two dealerships serving Dallas, Fort Worth and North Texas: Park Place Lexus Grapevine at 901 E State Highway 114 Grapevine, TX 76051, or Park Place Lexus Plano at 1025 Preston Rd, Plano, TX 75093. View Park Place Inventory.

Equipped with a 268-horsepower V6 engine, the ES 350 gets right to work on the highways and city streets responding to the driver’s cues with precision like a symphony follows its conductor. Its unyielding body and new independent suspension perform in harmony to grip the road for added control and meticulous handling.

“The 2013 Lexus ES 350 delivers a refined and serene driving experience that’s bolstered by a V6 engine that’s smooth and sufficiently powerful,” writes Edmunds in its review. “At highway speeds, the cabin remains remarkably silent, mostly devoid of wind, road or engine noise. Bumps and ruts in the road are now better absorbed than before, with barely a hint of their presence reaching the passengers.”

One of the hallmarks of a Lexus is the generous head and legroom in the rear seats of its vehicles. And the redesigned interior of the 2013 Lexus ES 350 gains a whopping four inches of legroom over previous models. A rear seat haven awaits passengers in the 2013 Lexus ES 350 with its spacious legroom from the new longer platform and sleeker front seatback design.

You can turn the new Lexus ES 350 into the ultimate retreat with the many available amenities. Your choices include heated and ventilated front seats, heated steering wheel, 10-way power front seats, Navigation System with access to mobile apps, and an 835-watt Mark Levinson Premium Surround Sound Audio System with 15 speakers.

Or, you can opt for the aptly-named Ultra Luxury Package featuring soft, semi-aniline leather, hand-selected wood trim, power rear sunshade, rear-side-window-shades and a panoramic glass roof. “And it’s here where the ES 350 really shines, becoming a virtually transparent conveyance, shielding its occupants from the outside world behind acoustically insulated glass,” Car and Driver writes in its 2013 ES 250 review.

Technology is plentiful with the available Lexus Enform and Safety Connect. The two together provide the convenience of live, 24-hour navigation assistance and the capability to request emergency services with one button press. Connect your compatible smartphone and you have instant access to search, Facebook places, a wealth of resources for entertainment ideas and even making dinner reservations.

The redesigned ES 350 is thoroughly modern with its sharp spindle grille and glossy lines creating a sensational presence. Add to that a longer wheelbase and a more spacious interior with mobile connectivity that blends right ensuring ease of use without interfering with safety. See the new face of progress at Park Place Lexus Plano or Park Place Lexus Grapevine.

 

Interior

25-2013-Lexus-ES350-Interior-300x180

2013 Lexus ES 350 interior colors: Parchment NuLuxe Espresso Bird’s Eye Maple, Black NuLuxe Espresso Bird’s Eye Maple, Light Gray NuLuxe Espresso Bird’s Eye Maple.

Lexus Enform App Suite. The available app suite gives you in-vehicle access to your favorite mobile apps on your compatible smartphone. Enform lets you to connect to Bing, iHeartRadio, MovieTickets.com, OpenTable, Pandora, Yelp and Facebook Places. The suite will add new apps as they become available thanks to wireless updates. Learn more at www.lexus.com/ES/enform.

Driver seating. Settle into the bolstered, 10-way power driver’s seat, grab the steering wheel inspired by the Lexus LFA sports car, place your feet on the pedals and you’ll sense that all three aspects were designed in tandem for optimal driver engagement and comfort. The available memory recalls up to three personalized driving positions including seat, steering wheel and outer mirror positions at the touch of a button.

Audio system. A USB jack located in the center console gives you complete control of your iPod and charges the device as you drive. Lexus Bluetooth audio technology gives you wireless control of your compatible player’s entire music library and the ability to wirelessly stream audio from websites.

 

Exterior

2013 Lexus ES350 Rear
2013 Lexus ES 350 exterior colors: Cerulean Blue Metallic, Deep Sea Mica, Fire Agate Pearl, Matador Red Mica, Nebula Gray Pearl, Obsidian, Satin Cashmere Metallic, Silver Lining Metallic, Starfire Pearl.

Body design. Lexus engineers tested more than 30 digital models and multiple prototypes in developing the upper body of the 2013 Lexus ES 350. By pairing new reinforcements with additional bracing in other areas, stability and handling are enhanced and the roof structure is strong enough to withstand an impact load more than three times its own weight.

SmartAccess. No need to remove the key from your pocket or purse. SmartAccess can sense your approach, illuminating exterior puddle lamps and interior lighting. You can unlock the doors and trunk with one touch. And, with the available remote keyless entry-linked memory system, the ES can detect which of the two supplied keys is present and recall the seat, side mirror and steering wheel positions to that driver’s preprogrammed preferences.

Backup camera. Backing in and out of tight spaces becomes easier with the available backup camera. Shift the new Lexus ES 350 in reverse, and the view from a small camera located above the rear license plate appears in full color on the multimedia display. To assist with parking, the display also shows guides indicating the vehicle’s width and orientation.

Intelligent high-beam headlamps. For added visibility for drivers including those in nearby cars, available intelligent high-beam headlamps offer increased illumination when the road ahead is clear and temporarily switch to low-beam when they sense another vehicle ahead.

 

Safety

Of all the areas worthy of focus on the 2013 Lexus ES 350, among the most important is its focus on Keeping you safe. While an ordinary crash test dummy can provide 119 data points, Lexus uses digital models comprised of millions.

10-Airbag System. The ES features a standard 10-airbag system and new Whiplash Injury Lessening (WIL) front seats designed to help decrease the severity of whiplash-type injuries in certain rear collisions.

Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert. Since accidents happen anywhere, the 2013 Lexus ES 350 offers two new ways help you avoid accidents on highways and parking lots. The available Blind Spot Monitor features an ingenious Rear Cross-Traffic Alert system that can detect and alert you of vehicles approaching from behind on either side when you back out of a parking space. At speeds above 10 mph, the Blind Spot Monitor helps you safely change lanes by warning you if it detects vehicles in the adjacent lanes.

Lane Departure Alert. This available safety feature detects visible lane markings, and if you veer, it can warn you with audible and visual cues.

Intelligent high-beam headlamps. The available intelligent high-beam headlamps automatically switch to low-beam when sensing headlamps or tail lamps ahead.

Safety Connect: In the event that the airbags deploy in the Lexus ES 350, or there’s a serious rear-end collision, the available Safety Connect can contact a response center agent who can notify local emergency services and direct them to the vehicle’s location.

Pre-Collision System: To help you prepare for and avoid potential collisions, an available Pre-Collision System with Dynamic Radar Cruise Control monitors the road ahead for obstacles and warn you of their presence with beeps and visible alerts. It can automatically brake before impact.

 

Performance

2013 Lexus ES350 Engine V6
3.5-liter V6 Engine: The 3.5-liter V6 engine comes with a valvetrain of four cam, four valves per cylinder, with dual Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i). The ES 350 delivers 268 hp @ 6,200 RPM and 248 lb-ft of torque at 4,700 RPM.

Transmission. Six-speed sequential-shift automatic Electronically Controlled Transmission with intelligence (ECT-i)

Suspension system. New valving and reduced friction in the shock absorbers enhance ride comfort and linear steering response. The new opposite-wound front coil springs improve straight-line control. And, new rear-suspension geometry provides better agility and overall control.

Drive Mode Select. Drive Mode Select lets you customize the performance of the Lexus ES 350. ECO mode optimizes climate and throttle settings for increased fuel efficiency. Normal mode offers balance of comfort and performance. Sport mode enhances the steering feel and increases the throttle response for more dynamic acceleration.

2013 Lexus ES 300h hybrid. You can get everything you love about the Lexus ES including the plentiful space and legroom plus the advantages of a hybrid that gets 40 mpg city and 39 mpg highway. For emission rating, the Lexus ES 300h hybrid is a certified super ultra-low emission vehicle (SULEV). The hybrid has a 200 total system horsepower and runs on an efficient 2.5-liter Atkinson-cycle engine.

Wait no more Dallas, the 2013 Lexus ES 350 is here!

2013 Lexus ES 350

The new Lexus ES 350 mid-size sedan defies expectations with its stirring performance and a body that makes an indelible impression wherever it rolls.

 

2013 Lexus ES350

Overview

Not only does the completely redesigned 2013 Lexus ES 350 leave behind an unforgettable impression everywhere it travels, but it also renders its drivers and passengers speechless with its quiet velvety ride and luxurious amenities. This popular Lexus vehicle is for sale at two dealerships serving Dallas, Fort Worth and North Texas: Park Place Lexus Grapevine at 901 E State Highway 114 Grapevine, TX 76051, or Park Place Lexus Plano at 1025 Preston Rd, Plano, TX 75093. View Park Place Inventory.

Equipped with a 268-horsepower V6 engine, the ES 350 gets right to work on the highways and city streets responding to the driver’s cues with precision like a symphony follows its conductor. Its unyielding body and new independent suspension perform in harmony to grip the road for added control and meticulous handling.

“The 2013 Lexus ES 350 delivers a refined and serene driving experience that’s bolstered by a V6 engine that’s smooth and sufficiently powerful,” writes Edmunds in its review. “At highway speeds, the cabin remains remarkably silent, mostly devoid of wind, road or engine noise. Bumps and ruts in the road are now better absorbed than before, with barely a hint of their presence reaching the passengers.”

One of the hallmarks of a Lexus is the generous head and legroom in the rear seats of its vehicles. And the redesigned interior of the 2013 Lexus ES 350 gains a whopping four inches of legroom over previous models. A rear seat haven awaits passengers in the 2013 Lexus ES 350 with its spacious legroom from the new longer platform and sleeker front seatback design.

You can turn the new Lexus ES 350 into the ultimate retreat with the many available amenities. Your choices include heated and ventilated front seats, heated steering wheel, 10-way power front seats, Navigation System with access to mobile apps, and an 835-watt Mark Levinson Premium Surround Sound Audio System with 15 speakers.

Or, you can opt for the aptly-named Ultra Luxury Package featuring soft, semi-aniline leather, hand-selected wood trim, power rear sunshade, rear-side-window-shades and a panoramic glass roof. “And it’s here where the ES 350 really shines, becoming a virtually transparent conveyance, shielding its occupants from the outside world behind acoustically insulated glass,” Car and Driver writes in its 2013 ES 250 review.

Technology is plentiful with the available Lexus Enform and Safety Connect. The two together provide the convenience of live, 24-hour navigation assistance and the capability to request emergency services with one button press. Connect your compatible smartphone and you have instant access to search, Facebook places, a wealth of resources for entertainment ideas and even making dinner reservations.

The redesigned ES 350 is thoroughly modern with its sharp spindle grille and glossy lines creating a sensational presence. Add to that a longer wheelbase and a more spacious interior with mobile connectivity that blends right ensuring ease of use without interfering with safety. See the new face of progress at Park Place Lexus Plano or Park Place Lexus Grapevine.

 

Interior

2013 Lexus ES350 Interior
2013 Lexus ES 350 interior colors: Parchment NuLuxe Espresso Bird’s Eye Maple, Black NuLuxe Espresso Bird’s Eye Maple, Light Gray NuLuxe Espresso Bird’s Eye Maple.

Lexus Enform App Suite: The available app suite gives you in-vehicle access to your favorite mobile apps on your compatible smartphone. Enform lets you to connect to Bing, iHeartRadio, MovieTickets.com, OpenTable, Pandora, Yelp and Facebook Places. The suite will add new apps as they become available thanks to wireless updates. Learn more at www.lexus.com/ES/enform.

Driver seating: Settle into the bolstered, 10-way power driver’s seat, grab the steering wheel inspired by the Lexus LFA sports car, place your feet on the pedals and you’ll sense that all three aspects were designed in tandem for optimal driver engagement and comfort. The available memory recalls up to three personalized driving positions including seat, steering wheel and outer mirror positions at the touch of a button.

Audio system: A USB jack located in the center console gives you complete control of your iPod and charges the device as you drive. Lexus Bluetooth audio technology gives you wireless control of your compatible player’s entire music library and the ability to wirelessly stream audio from websites.

 

Exterior

2013 Lexus ES350 Rear
2013 Lexus ES 350 exterior colors: Cerulean Blue Metallic, Deep Sea Mica, Fire Agate Pearl, Matador Red Mica, Nebula Gray Pearl, Obsidian, Satin Cashmere Metallic, Silver Lining Metallic, Starfire Pearl.

Body design. Lexus engineers tested more than 30 digital models and multiple prototypes in developing the upper body of the 2013 Lexus ES 350. By pairing new reinforcements with additional bracing in other areas, stability and handling are enhanced and the roof structure is strong enough to withstand an impact load more than three times its own weight.

SmartAccess: No need to remove the key from your pocket or purse. SmartAccess can sense your approach, illuminating exterior puddle lamps and interior lighting. You can unlock the doors and trunk with one touch. And, with the available remote keyless entry-linked memory system, the ES can detect which of the two supplied keys is present and recall the seat, side mirror and steering wheel positions to that driver’s preprogrammed preferences.

Backup camera: Backing in and out of tight spaces becomes easier with the available backup camera. Shift the new Lexus ES 350 in reverse, and the view from a small camera located above the rear license plate appears in full color on the multimedia display. To assist with parking, the display also shows guides indicating the vehicle’s width and orientation.

Intelligent high-beam headlamps: For added visibility for drivers including those in nearby cars, available intelligent high-beam headlamps offer increased illumination when the road ahead is clear and temporarily switch to low-beam when they sense another vehicle ahead.

 

Safety

Of all the areas worthy of focus on the 2013 Lexus ES 350, among the most important is its focus on Keeping you safe. While an ordinary crash test dummy can provide 119 data points, Lexus uses digital models comprised of millions.

10-Airbag System: The ES features a standard 10-airbag system and new Whiplash Injury Lessening (WIL) front seats designed to help decrease the severity of whiplash-type injuries in certain rear collisions.

Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert: Since accidents happen anywhere, the 2013 Lexus ES 350 offers two new ways help you avoid accidents on highways and parking lots. The available Blind Spot Monitor features an ingenious Rear Cross-Traffic Alert system that can detect and alert you of vehicles approaching from behind on either side when you back out of a parking space. At speeds above 10 mph, the Blind Spot Monitor helps you safely change lanes by warning you if it detects vehicles in the adjacent lanes.

Lane Departure Alert: This available safety feature detects visible lane markings, and if you veer, it can warn you with audible and visual cues.

Intelligent high-beam headlamps: The available intelligent high-beam headlamps automatically switch to low-beam when sensing headlamps or tail lamps ahead.

Safety Connect: In the event that the airbags deploy in the Lexus ES 350, or there’s a serious rear-end collision, the available Safety Connect can contact a response center agent who can notify local emergency services and direct them to the vehicle’s location.

Pre-Collision System: To help you prepare for and avoid potential collisions, an available Pre-Collision System with Dynamic Radar Cruise Control monitors the road ahead for obstacles and warn you of their presence with beeps and visible alerts. It can automatically brake before impact.

 

Performance

2013 Lexus ES350 Engine V6
3.5-liter V6 Engine: The 3.5-liter V6 engine comes with a valvetrain of four cam, four valves per cylinder, with dual Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i). The ES 350 delivers 268 hp @ 6,200 RPM and 248 lb-ft of torque at 4,700 RPM.

Transmission: Six-speed sequential-shift automatic Electronically Controlled Transmission with intelligence (ECT-i)

Suspension system: New valving and reduced friction in the shock absorbers enhance ride comfort and linear steering response. The new opposite-wound front coil springs improve straight-line control. And, new rear-suspension geometry provides better agility and overall control.

Drive Mode Select: Drive Mode Select lets you customize the performance of the Lexus ES 350. ECO mode optimizes climate and throttle settings for increased fuel efficiency. Normal mode offers balance of comfort and performance. Sport mode enhances the steering feel and increases the throttle response for more dynamic acceleration.

2013 Lexus ES 300h hybrid: You can get everything you love about the Lexus ES including the plentiful space and legroom plus the advantages of a hybrid that gets 40 mpg city and 39 mpg highway. For emission rating, the Lexus ES 300h hybrid is a certified super ultra-low emission vehicle (SULEV). The hybrid has a 200 total system horsepower and runs on an efficient 2.5-liter Atkinson-cycle engine.

Mercedes-Benz CLS63 AMG Background Wallpaper

As requested by Jim on the Park Place Dealerships Facebook Page, this month’s wallpaper features the legendary Mercedes-Benz CLS63 AMG. If you have any suggestions about future wallpapers that you would love to see, feel free to let us know! To download this wallpaper, click on the link below the image that corresponds with your computer’s screen resolution, and when the image comes up, just “right-click” and select “save picture as”.

CLS63 AMG Background Wallpaper_thumbnail

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2014 Jaguar F-TYPE Specs Released


The launch of the F‐TYPE at the Paris Motor Show is one of the most exciting and anticipated events in the automotive industry: speculated by the press, fearfully watched by competitors and eagerly awaited by enthusiasts. The car being delivered is better, faster and more beautiful than anything predicted, feared or hoped for. It is an exceptional sports car that will ignite passion in drivers the world over, a true heir to the incredible performance heritage of Jaguar. At launch, the F‐TYPE will come exclusively in a convertible body style with three trim levels, primarily differentiated using performance and dynamic features rather than rising equipment levels:

– F‐TYPE with a 340 horsepower supercharged V6

– F‐TYPE S with a 380 horsepower supercharged V6

– F‐TYPE V8 S with a 495 horsepower supercharged V8

Like every Jaguar product launch the F‐TYPE is boldly looking to the future, but does so standing on the shoulders of giants. This car’s commitment to living up to its unmatched heritage is clear from its name – called the F‐TYPE, it is the spiritual successor to the great C‐, D‐ and E‐TYPE cars of the past. But a bloodline and name is not enough: we could not just call it FTYPE, we had to make it F‐TYPE.

As a new sports car, the first question most people will ask is: how fast is it? With the F-TYPE V8 S running from 0-60mph in 4.2 seconds, and a top speed of 186mph, the simple answer is: very. All engine variants benefit from the following:

– Supercharged engines for linear and immediate power delivery.

– Aluminum platform to save weight and increase performance.

– Double‐wishbone suspension for tremendous grip and handling.

– Front‐engine, rear‐drive layout with near perfect weight distribution for exceptional balance.

High power and low weight means effortless speed. By combining powerful engines with an all-aluminum body the F‐TYPE achieves high power to weight ratios for each model to deliver a car that is fast, lively and responsive.

F-TYPE STYLE

The look of the F‐TYPE has purity and simplicity, which gives it lasting beauty. The proportions and stance are uncompromised, for a look of poised muscularity and latent energy. It is the new shape of Jaguar sports cars, which takes the themes established by the Jaguar sedans and evolves them.

Two bold strokes, called ‘heartlines’, define the signature look of the F‐TYPE. These two lines were the first strokes penned by the designers to define the shape:

– The first heartline starts with the blade bisecting the shark gill grille openings of the bumper, runs through the headlights, and over the top of the front fenders before elegantly fading in the doors. This sweeping line is mirrored by the feature line that runs back from the side vent. The top of the side vent meets the lower edge of the clamshell hood, and the vent itself is stamped with the Jaguar name. An additional ‘lightcatcher’ surface detail above the side sills allows the door surface to wrap around the side of the car, creating a fuselage effect.

– The second heartline begins at rear edge of the door, rising to create the powerful haunch over the rear fenders, emphasizing that the car is rear wheel drive. It then wraps around in an unbroken curve, forming a low, wide and elegant tail.

The width of the tail is emphasized by the slim, full‐LED tail lamps that wrap all the way around the fenders almost to the trailing edge of the rear wheel arches. The tail of the vehicle actually tucks inwards creating the impression that the car is actively waiting to leap forward into action.

F-TYPE POWER

The F‐TYPE powertrain lineup is headlined by three supercharged engines: two V6 and one V8. The V6 is the new 3.0 liter, which is a version of the acclaimed Jaguar 5.0 liter V8. The key to those impressive power figures:

– Roots‐type vortex superchargers, mounted in the ‘V’ of the engines.

– Intercoolers to reduce intake air temperature and improve power and efficiency.

– Superchargers that ensure no lag and immediate power delivery, so that the F‐TYPE engines are responsive and eager to rev.

The engines of each F‐TYPE model are mated to a new 8‐speed ‘QuickShift’ automatic from ZF. It features closely spaced ratios and is specifically engineered for this sports car application with shifts that are shorter and more immediate, with almost no perceptible interruption of torque delivery in shifts. In the past an automatic transmission in a sports car would have been unthinkable, but this new generation of transmission has none of the compromises and all of the benefits:

– Limited power interruption during shifts.

– Once in 2nd gear, a clutch mechanism locks the torque converter to create a direct mechanical connection between the engine and the driven wheels for more direct and responsive feel.

– Adaptive Shift strategy responds and tailors shifts to how the car is being driven, from relaxed to aggressive.

– Corner Recognition interacts with other vehicle systems to recognize if the car is in a bend to prevent upshifts while cornering.

– Full manual control via paddles mounted to the steering wheel, or using the new SportShift selector in the center console.

– Complete driver control when shifting manually: in Dynamic Mode the transmission will not automatically upshift, even at redline

– Throttle blips on downshifts when in Dynamic Mode to match engine and gear speeds for smoother shifts.

– Responsive acceleration through closely spaced gears 1 to 6.

– Better highway fuel economy through the overdrive gears (7th and 8th).

With power and performance being the deciding factor in the success of a sports car, the F-TYPE is poised to take the competition by storm, but the luxury and refinement that makes a Jaguar so unique has not been forgotten. A car of this caliber is certain to turn heads, and with sales expected to begin in May of 2013, the wait is nearly over to experience this incredible journey as Jaguar begins it’s push back into the luxury sports car arena.

For more information about the legendary new F-TYPE and when it will be available, feel free to reach out to your favorite Park Place Jaguar Sales Consultant and check back on our blog for more news!

What’s New In The 2013 Lexus ES350?

Want to take a look at the 2013 Lexus ES350’s we have in stock? Click here for our 2013 ES350 inventory.

The new Lexus ES 350 mid-size sedan defies expectations with its stirring performance and a body that makes an indelible impression wherever it rolls.

Not only does the 2013 Lexus ES 350 leave behind an unforgettable impression everywhere it travels, but it also renders its drivers and passengers speechless with its quiet velvety ride and luxurious amenities. This popular Lexus vehicle is for sale at two dealerships serving Dallas, Fort Worth and North Texas: Park Place Lexus Grapevine at 901 E State Highway 114 Grapevine, TX 76051, or Park Place Lexus Plano at 1025 Preston Rd, Plano, TX 75093.

Equipped with a 268-horsepower V6 engine, the ES 350 gets right to work on the highways and city streets responding to the driver’s cues with precision like a symphony follows its conductor. Its unyielding body and new independent suspension perform in harmony to grip the road for added control and meticulous handling.

“The 2013 Lexus ES 350 delivers a refined and serene driving experience that’s bolstered by a V6 engine that’s smooth and sufficiently powerful,” writes Edmunds in its review. “At highway speeds, the cabin remains remarkably silent, mostly devoid of wind, road or engine noise. Bumps and ruts in the road are now better absorbed than before, with barely a hint of their presence reaching the passengers.”

One of the hallmarks of a Lexus is the generous head and legroom in the rear seats of its vehicles. A rear seat haven awaits passengers in the 2013 Lexus ES 350 with its spacious legroom from the new longer platform and sleeker front seatback design.

You can turn the new Lexus ES 350 the ultimate retreat with the many available amenities. Your choices include heated and ventilated front seats, heated steering wheel, 10-way power front seats, Navigation System with access to mobile apps, and 835-watt Mark Levinson Premium Surround Sound Audio System with 15 speakers. Or, you can opt for the aptly-named Ultra Luxury Package featuring soft, semi-aniline leather, hand-selected wood trim, power rear sunshade, rear-side-window-shades and a panoramic glass roof.

“And it’s here where the ES 350 really shines, becoming a virtually transparent conveyance, shielding its occupants from the outside world behind acoustically insulated glass,” Car and Driver writes in its 2013 ES 250 review.

The ES 350 is thoroughly modern with its sharp spindle grille and glossy lines creating a sensational presence. Add to that a longer wheelbase and a more spacious interior with mobile connectivity that blends right ensuring ease of use without interfering with safety. See the new face of progress at Park Place Lexus Plano or Park Place Lexus Grapevine serving Dallas / Fort Worth.

Interior

2013 Lexus ES 350 interior colors: Parchment NuLuxe Espresso Bird’s Eye Maple, Black NuLuxe Espresso Bird’s Eye Maple, Light Gray NuLuxe Espresso Bird’s Eye Maple.

Lexus Enform App Suite. The available app suite gives you in-vehicle access to your favorite mobile apps on your compatible smartphone. Enform lets you to connect to Bing, iHeartRadio, MovieTickets.com, OpenTable, Pandora, Yelp and Facebook Places. The suite will add new apps as they become available thanks to wireless updates. Learn more at www.lexus.com/ES/enform.

Driver seating. Settle into the bolstered, 10-way power driver’s seat, grab the steering wheel inspired by the Lexus LFA sports car, place your feet on the pedals and you’ll sense that all three aspects were designed in tandem for optimal driver engagement and comfort. The available memory recalls up to three personalized driving positions including seat, steering wheel and outer mirror positions at the touch of a button.

Audio system. A USB jack located in the center console gives you complete control of your iPod and charges the device as you drive. Lexus Bluetooth audio technology gives you wireless control of your compatible player’s entire music library and the ability to wirelessly stream audio from websites.

Exterior

2013 Lexus ES 350 exterior colors: Cerulean Blue Metallic, Deep Sea Mica, Fire Agate Pearl, Matador Red Mica, Nebula Gray Pearl, Obsidian, Satin Cashmere Metallic, Silver Lining Metallic, Starfire Pearl.

Body design. Lexus engineers tested more than 30 digital models and multiple prototypes in devleoping the upper body of the 2013 Lexus ES 350. By pairing new reinforcements with additional bracing in other areas, stability and handling are enhanced and the roof structure is strong enough to withstand an impact load more than three times its own weight.

SmartAccess. No need to remove the key from your pocket or purse. SmartAccess can sense your approach, illuminating exterior puddle lamps and interior lighting. You can unlock the doors and trunk with one touch. And, with the available remote keyless entry-linked memory system, the ES can detect which of the two supplied keys is present and recall the seat, side mirror and steering wheel positions to that driver’s preprogrammed preferences.

Backup camera. Backing in and out of tight spaces becomes easier with the available backup camera.  Shift the new Lexus ES 350 in reverse, and the view from a small camera located above the rear license plate appears in full color on the multimedia display. To assist with parking, the display also shows guides indicating the vehicle’s width and orientation.

Intelligent high-beam headlamps. For added visibility for drivers including those in nearby cars, available intelligent high-beam headlamps offer increased illumination when the road ahead is clear and temporarily switch to low-beam when they sense another vehicle ahead.

Safety

Of all the areas worthy of focus on the 2013 Lexus ES 350, among the most important is its focus on helping to keep you safe. While an ordinary crash test dummy can provide 119 data points, Lexus uses digital models comprised of millions.

10-Airbag System. The ES features a standard 10-airbag system and new Whiplash Injury Lessening (WIL) front seats designed to help decrease the severity of whiplash-type injuries in certain rear collisions.

Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert. Since accidents happen anywhere, the 2013 Lexus ES 350 offers two new ways help you avoid accidents on highways and parking lots. The available Blind Spot Monitor features an ingenious Rear Cross-Traffic Alert system that can detect and alert you of vehicles approaching from behind on either side when you back out of a parking space. At speeds above 10 mph, the Blind Spot Monitor helps you safely change lanes by warning you if it detects vehicles in the adjacent lanes.

Lane Departure Alert. This available safety feature detects visible lane markings, and if you veer, it can warn you with audible and visual cues.

Intelligent high-beam headlamps. The available intelligent high-beam headlamps automatically switch to low-beam when sensing headlamps or tail lamps ahead.

Safety Connect. In the event that the airbags deploy in the Lexus ES 350, or there’s a serious rear-end collision, the available Safety Connect can contact a response center agent who can notify local emergency services and direct them to the vehicle’s location.

Pre-Collision System. To help you prepare for and avoid potential collisions, an available Pre-Collision System with Dynamic Radar Cruise Control monitors the road ahead for obstacles and warn you of their presence with beeps and visible alerts. It can automatically brake before impact.

Performance

3.5-liter V6 Engine. The 3.5-liter V6 engine comes with a valvetrain of four cam, four valves per cylinder, with dual Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i). The ES 350 delivers 268 hp @ 6,200 RPM and 248 lb-ft of torque at 4,700 RPM.

Transmission. Six-speed sequential-shift automatic Electronically Controlled Transmission with intelligence (ECT-i)

Suspension system. New valving and reduced friction in the shock absorbers enhance ride comfort and linear steering response. The new opposite-wound front coil springs improve straight-line control. And, new rear-suspension geometry provides better agility and overall control.

Drive Mode Select. Drive Mode Select lets you customize the performance of the Lexus ES 350. ECO mode optimizes climate and throttle settings for increased fuel efficiency. Normal mode offers balance of comfort and performance. Sport mode enhances the steering feel and increases the throttle response for more dynamic acceleration.

Park Place Lexus Unveils The New 2013 Lexus ES

2013 Lexus ES

2013 Lexus ESPark Place Lexus recently hosted events to unveil the new 2013 Lexus ES. In addition, the festive evenings celebrated Park Place’s partnership with Wipe Out Kids Cancer in Grapevine and Children’s Medical Center in Plano.

The Jennifer Baldwin Band set the mood for the party with soulful jazz standards. Wendy Krispin provided delicious small plates and bistro bites with delectable cuisine from Royal 60 and Foodwerks.

Impossible to ignore and impossible to forget, the new Lexus ES was clearly the star of the show. This iconic model received a major facelift for 2013,  featuring its first complete body redesign since 2006. While the exterior certainly turns heads, the real excitement is in the advanced technology. Lexus has even introduced the first ever ES 350 Hybrid, delivering 40 mpg with a 200 horsepower powerplant.

Safety features are front and center with 10 airbags standard, an optional blind-spot monitor system with rear cross-traffic alert, optional lane-departure alert, pre-collision radar-based automatic obstacle detection, and Lexus Safety Connect with roadside assistance.

Standard entertainment equipment includes a Lexus premium sound system, USB/iPod connectivity, and integrated SiriusXM satellite radio. Optional add-ons include a Display Audio package that adds Bluetooth, HD Radio with iTunes tagging, automatic phone book transfer, and a rear backup camera, all accessed through a 7-inch screen. Upgrades include a 15-speaker Mark Levinson audio system with an eight-inch display and DVD audio and video; a navigation system with voice command, and Lexus Enform with App Suite for on-the-go connectivity.

Park Place Lexus Grapevine Launches The 2013 Lexus ES
Matt Woolsey, Park Place Lexus Grapevine sales manager; Greg Nieberding, WOKC board member; Rick Ross, WOKC Golf Classic Co-Chair; Gary Venner, Park Place Lexus Grapevine general manager; and Rob Sumner, Park Place Dealerships marketing director.

Wipe Out Kids Cancer is Park Place’s Lexus Champions for Charity partner. Park Place Lexus Grapevine surprised the charity with an additional $5,000 donation at the event. The 10th annual American Airlines Wipe Out Kids Cancer Golf Classic will be held October 8 at the Tribute Golf Club in The Colony. More information at http://wokc.org/WipeOutKidsCancerGolfClassic_26.aspx

Park Place Lexus Plano Launches The New 2013 Lexus ES
Rob Sumner, Park Place Dealerships marketing director; Shana Santoni, Director Corporate Relations & Cause Marketing, Children’s Medical Center; Lori Waggoner, Director of Development Communications, Children’s Medical Center; Chris Brunner, Park Place Lexus Plano general manager; and Catherine Mouton, Corporate Relations Coordinator, Children’s Medical Center.

Park Place Lexus Plano presented Children’s Medical Center a check for $10,000 for the Red Balloon Run & Ride, which will be held October 20 on the Children’s Medical Center at Legacy campus in Plano. More information at
http://www.childrensmedicalcenterdallas.com/development/rbrr/

Jaguar Partners With Gilt.com For The Ultimate Luxury Deal

If you aren’t familiar with Gilt.com, it is an online shopping site where one can find deals on such luxurious items as vintage watches, designer shoes, made-to-order clothing lines, and a variety of other lifestyle items for those with a refined taste. One thing you don’t usually see on the site, however, is a car. You might ask, but a browse around their online store tells the story. Gilt is an online retailer that doesn’t simply sell products, but showcases the highest quality, most unique, and most coveted items available. It took a special partnership with Jaguar to create a deal that fit this model, and now you have the opportunity to reap the benefits.

With the launch of Jaguar’s ultra-luxury sedan, the 2013 XJL Ultimate, they have taken a step into the world of beautiful luxury design, cutting edge technology, and the addition of details that the truly discriminating luxury automotive enthusiast dreams about. Long comfortable drives with the world at your fingertips through wirelessly connected iPads, digital screens, hidden workspaces, and control of your own automotive experience become readily available in this a vehicle. All while chilling a bottle of the finest champagne with two bespoke champagne flutes within the beautifully designed center console extending between the rear seats.

So, what sort of deal, you may ask, could you add to this amazing vehicle to make it better? This is where the Gilt partnership comes in. On Friday, September 21st, at 12pm ET, the ultimate luxury package will be available for Gilt members to purchase.

The Package Includes:

The opportunity to reserve for purchase at a Jaguar Retailer, an All-New 2013 Jaguar XJL Ultimate, in a “Designers Choice”, Polaris White exterior with jet black interior trim for $155,000 MSRP*. The buyer will reserve the vehicle online and will complete purchase through the buyer’s local Jaguar Retailer. The Retailer will be contacted by Jaguar to receive the buyer contact information to finalize the purchase and coordinate vehicle delivery.

Upon purchase of the vehicle, the buyer will receive a roundtrip airfare for two to London; a stay in the Jaguar suite at 51 Buckingham Gate; a gourmet dinner cooked in suite by a world renowned Michelin-starred chef; a meet and greet with Jaguar’s Design Team; and a bottle of chilled Lanson Champagne. 

The buyer will also receive a $2,500 Gilt credit to spruce up the buyer’s wardrobe for the trip to London.

Don’t miss out on this never before seen partnership between Jaguar and Gilt, and make your way over to Gilt.com at noon ET on Friday September 21st to stake your claim on this amazing opportunity.

*MSRP excludes destination, delivery fee, tax, title, license and other local fees.

McLaren P1 To Preview At Paris Motor Show

McLaren Automotive will use its first ever international motor show appearance to preview its next generation ultimate supercar – the P1 – which takes much of its technological and spiritual inspiration from the company’s Racing division.  P1 has one simple goal: to be the best driver’s car in the world on road and track.

At the Paris Motor Show, Mondial de l’Automobile 2012, P1 is previewed as a design study. Next year a production version, which the company aims to put on sale within 12 months, will be revealed.

‘P1 will be the result of 50 years of racing and road car heritage,’ says McLaren Automotive Executive Chairman Ron Dennis. ‘Twenty years ago we raised the supercar performance bar with the McLaren F1 and our goal with P1 is to redefine it once again.’

‘Our aim is not necessarily to be the fastest in absolute top speed but to be the quickest and most rewarding series production road car on a circuit’, says McLaren Automotive Managing Director Antony Sheriff. ‘It is the true test of a supercar’s all round ability and a much more important technical statement. It will be the most exciting, most capable, most technologically advanced and most dynamically accomplished supercar ever made.’

When P1 goes into production later next year, it will sit above the 12C and 12C Spider, in terms of both price and performance.

 

Lexus iPhone Background Wallpapers!

Lexus LF-LC

Are you a Lexus fan and carry an iPhone with you wherever you go? You’re in luck! We’ve just released our first set of iPhone background wallpapers for the Lexus model line. Just pick the model you own, or the one you’re dreaming of, and show some pride every time you use your phone!

If you need instructions on how to update your iPhone wallpaper, just scroll to the bottom of this post for step by step instructions!

Lexus IS iPhone Background Wallpaper
Lexus IS

Lexus ES iPhone Background Wallpaper
Lexus ES

Lexus GS iPhone Background Wallpaper
Lexus GS

Lexus LS iPhone Background Wallpaper
Lexus LS

Lexus CT iPhone Background Wallpaper
Lexus CT

Lexus GX iPhone Background Wallpaper
Lexus GX

Lexus LX iPhone Background Wallpaper
Lexus LX

Lexus RX iPhone Background Wallpaper
Lexus RX

Lexus ISC iPhone Background Wallpaper
Lexus ISC

Lexus ISF iPhone Background Wallpaper
Lexus ISF

Lexus LFA iPhone Background Wallpaper
Lexus LFA

Lexus LF-LC
Lexus LF-LC

Instructions: Downloading And Changing Your iPhone Background

Step 1: Visit this page from your iPhone

Step 2: Press on the background that you want from the images above.

Step 3: When the image page comes up, press and hold on the image until your iPhone shows the “Save Image” button, and press it.

Step 4: Press the home button to exit your mobile browser. (That’s the circular button with the rounded square at the bottom of your iPhone)

Step 5: Navigate to your “Photos” app on your phone, and select your “Camera Roll” album.

Step6: Select the background image that you saved.

Step 7: Press on the button at the bottom left of your screen that looks like a rectangle with an arrow.

Step 8: Select “Use as Wallpaper”, press the “Set” button, and then select “Set Home Screen”

This will update your iPhone background!