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Safety First with National Child Passenger Safety Week

For parents, nothing comes before their child’s safety. Yet according to the Center for Disease Control, 59 percent of car seats are used incorrectly, limiting their ability to effectively protect.  It’s National Child Passenger Safety Week, and Park Place Volvo Cars is devoted to upholding our manufacturer’s vision for safety. Our team couldn’t be more proud to sell vehicles we know are some of the safest in the world, providing our clients with that extra ease of mind that they and their child passengers are safe on their journeys

Of particular note, the Volvo XC60 (one of our most popular family luxury compact SUVs) is one of the most awarded vehicles in Volvo’s history, including the prestigious the overall safest car in Euro NCAP 2017 Best in Class safety awards and the ‘World Car of the Year’ and ‘Best Luxury Compact SUV’ by Cars.com.

The awards speak volumes that with every new model that is released and all improvements or updates made to the new model years that Volvo Cars is well on their way to meeting their Vision 20/20: Our vision is that by 2020 no one should be killed or seriously injured in a new Volvo car.”    

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), every 33 seconds, one child under the age of 13 is involved in a crash and many times deaths and injuries can be prevented by proper use of car seats, boosters, and seat belts. The effects of an improperly installed car seat are all too real, which is why you’ll typically find that if a dealership or service does not have a Certified Child Passenger Safety Technician, they will forgo reinstalling car seats and recommend a certified tech to do so after a service.

This Saturday ends National Child Passenger Safety week with Car Seat Check Saturday, where Certified Child Passenger Safety Technicians, will at the bare minimum check your car seat for free. The Certified Child Passenger Safety Technician will educate parents about choosing the right car seat for a child, installing a car seat correctly in their vehicle, and using the car seat acceptably every time. They can also discuss the importance of registering the car seat with its manufacturer, and what to expect if the seat is subject to a safety recall. 

Park Place Volvo works closely with many locations who have a Certified Technician available in the Dallas area and highly encourage that you make an appointment or show up to a location nearest you to have your car seats. checked.  For a list of locations to get your car seat checked Saturday (or any time) visit http://cert.safekids.org/get-car-seat-checked

“Car seats matter and having the right car seat installed and used correctly is critical, ” says Donny Lambrecht, general manager of Park Place Volvo.  In passenger cars, car seats reduce the risk of fatal injury by 71 percent for infants and by 54 percent for toddlers. Improving child safety in Volvo vehicles has long been a guiding principle with the manufacturer. Did you know that Volvo Cars played a key role in the development of rearward-facing child seats and introduced the world’s first booster cushion in 1978? Today, the company continues to innovate using technology and expertise to build the safest cars.

For more information on a Certified Child Passenger Safety Technician near you, please visit: http://cert.safekids.org/get-car-seat-checked 

 

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Bentley Celebrates Centennial with 100 Year Details in All New Models

News from Bentley Motors: Bentley is honoring its 100th year by introducing a special Centenary Specification for all of its models.

Inspired by celebrated models and events from the company’s illustrious past, the Centenary Specification will feature on all Bentleys built at the factory in Crewe, England, between January and December 2019.

Centenary badging, distinctive seat embroidery, unique treadplates, and other special details will identify each car as part of the celebrations – ensuring they become true collectors’ items.

Founded in 1919 by W.O. Bentley, the company has been guided by a simple principle to build “a fast car, a good car, the best in its class”.

Through decades of expertise and innovation, Bentley has designed, engineered and built the world’s most desirable Grand Tourers with a unique combination of luxury and performance. 

 

Centenary Specification: A Mark of Distinction

The Centenary Specification is a collection of exquisite detailing that reflects the attention to detail and unrivaled levels of skilled craftsmanship from the brand. 

Unique Centenary Gold front and rear badging will match the special wheel center badges and treadplates with a ‘1919-2019’ display. The steering wheel badge, key fob and gear selector all feature a similar use of the celebratory design.

A special centenary welcome light will greet passengers and bespoke seat embroidery has also been created, with Centenary Gold headrest logos and Centenary Gold Contrast Stitch or Cross Stitch available on these special models.

Inspired by the exquisite metalwork found on vintage Bentleys – such as EXP 2 of 1919 and the 1929 ‘Birkin’ Blower – Centenary Gold is a refined metallic gold, honoring the company’s rich heritage and racing triumphs while interpreting for the modern day with an elegant warm tone and a deep fluid shadow.  

The color has been specifically crafted to shine and reflect light like jewelry. It will be used in Bentley’s Centenary logo and will be synonymous with Bentley’s celebrations.

The First 100 Extraordinary Years

Born in 1888, founder W.O. Bentley grew up as an engineer enthusiast. It was no surprise to people who knew him that W.O. eventually turned his attention to building cars that would satisfy his own extraordinary expectations as a driver, an engineer and a gentleman.

Bentley Motors was established in 1919 and by September 1921 the first production model was proudly delivered to its owner, Noel van Raalte, at a cost of £1,050. The car carried Bentley’s hallmark radiator casing and Flying ‘B’ insignia.

The Bentley models of the 1920s became some of the most distinctive cars of the era. W.O. also became a fan of developing racing engines and his cars famously triumphed at Brooklands, Indianapolis and the Isle of Man. The legendary achievements of the Bentley Boys brought success at Le Mans on five occasions. For Full Details on Bentley’s Centenary visit www.BentleyMotors.com/100Years

Contact Bentley Dallas and Visit ParkPlace.com to view currently Bentley’s available.

 

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Etiquette Do’s and Don’ts of a Luxury & Supercar Showcase

“A car show is like a museum- the same rules apply.”

Come October 13th, Park Place Dealerships, Car Collectors, and local partners will come together at the Four Seasons Resort and Club Dallas at Las Colinas to celebrate the rare, the exotic, and the high-performance at an event that puts the “SUPER” in supercar.

In our 2nd Annual Showcase, we have an expanded Concours with 10 classes of vehicles to tickle your fancy- including Supercar, International, Race Cars, and American Muscle.  We are elated to welcome you on the Concours for an experience like none-other in Dallas-Fort Worth. So whether you are a car show pro or an infrequent goer to such events, we want to ensure you are prepped and ready to enjoy your Concours Experience to fullest while keeping our Collectors’ Cars in pristine condition throughout the day.  

We consulted with industry experts and Collectors for the top 3 Concours Commandments for guests to follow for an elevated supercar showcase and concours experience:

First, Don’t Touch Without Permission From the Collector.

This is quite possibly the most important commandment for guests and collectors alike. The cars that will be featured on the Concours are not just a car, they are pieces of art and history and should be treated as such.  Sean Walker of Hagerty Classic Cars likens a show field to that of a museum- “the same rules apply.” Leaning on or trying to sit in the cars, while seemingly harmless, should be avoided out of respect for the cars and their collectors.

Additionally, this commandment extends to being mindful of your accessories. Whether it be a metal belt buckle, bangles, a refreshing beverage, or a savory bite from our local chefs- all these items can be the source of unintentional scratches, grease marks, or spills. Simply be mindful, and you’ll be just fine. 

But, Do Treat the Cars Like Works of Art and Ask First

Our collectors may be perfectly fine with you snapping a quick photo or opening the door to get a close-up view of their pride and joy, but it’s key to ask their permission first. Brian Ratcliff of Ratcliff Financial Services INC., and seasoned collector, suggests a distance of 2-3 feet from the vehicle.

Second, Don’t Not Ask the Collector Questions

Remember the rule of a double negative? Well, this don’t is actually a do: Do ask questions. With so much history congregated on our Concours, it’s pertinent to indulge your car curiosity and our collector’s pride in their submissions. Every car has a story and most likely, the Collector will be more than delighted to share it with you. Remember that these cars are typically the result of a requited passion, and each person may have a different reason as to why they became a collector or what sparked their interest.

But, Do Ask Questions and Permission for Photos

With repetition comes emphasis. “It’s not just a car- there’s a story behind every single one of them,” says Walker. With over 100 collectors, there’s something new to learn about your favorite American Muscle car or sleek Italian driving machine. Get the full story by asking the person behind the plaque, and then ask their permission for a photo so the memory can be shared.

Finally, Don’t Skip, but Do Attend the Awards Ceremony.

The Collectors’ Concours is being evaluated by a panel of highly qualified judges to name Best In Show and Best In Class. This year, the awards will be presented on our Lexus Live stage, making it an exciting and energetic apex of the Park Place Luxury & Supercar Showcase. Keep these three Concours Commandments in mind, and you’ll be set for an exceptional showcase experience, so reserve your VIP experience via the link below. 

 

We’ll see you on the Concours!

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Park Place Gathers Some of the World’s Finest for the Supercar Showcase

A High-Performance Line-Up You Can Experience

Between an Expanded Concours and Park Place Dealerships bringing in some the world’s finest vehicles, there will be no shortage of “oohs & ahhs” on the Luxury & Supercar Showcase Concours. While the first rule and 

tenant of a car showcase (see Do’s and Don’ts of the Supercar Showcase Blog Here) is to look and not touch unless specifically told by the Collector, at the Park Place tents, guests can and are highly encouraged to explore, touch & feel, and ask questions about our Park Place featured lineups by brand. Below is just a smattering of what exceptional machines will be available throughout the day at our showcase event…and you’ll want to read all the way down. We have some breaking news!

Rolls-Royce Cullinan:

 Under the Cullinan’s hood is a 6.75 liter, twin-turbo V12 pushing out 563 horsepower and 627 pound-feet of torque. This is the same engine Rolls-Royce uses for its iconic Phantom, which also shares the SUV’s aluminum-intensive platform. The famous “magic air ride” feel that rendered the Phantom peerless has also been re-engineered by adding larger air struts with greater air volume, and by strengthening the drive and prop shafts to cushion blows from the toughest terrain. Featuring all-new, all-wheel drive and an all-wheel steering system — the first in Rolls-Royce history — the Cullinan reaches a top speed of 155 miles per hour.  Approach the Cullinan and it lowers roughly 1.5 inches for easy entry, rising back to normal position upon startup. The air suspension has adaptive damping and was built specifically with a degree of off-road luxury in mind — but a Rolls-Royce kind of off-roading, with a spotlight on smooth transitions. A lone off-road button is all it takes to prep the vehicle for whatever terrain you can throw at it, and it will even ford over 21 inches of water if needed. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to see the incredibly capable off-roader in person at the 2018 Park Place Luxury & Supercar Showcase, 

2019 Mercedes Maybach:

“It is impossible to outdo an S-Class — except when the S-Class surpasses itself. ” -MBUSA. The Mercedes-Maybach sets the bar for “exclusivity and individuality”, celebrating the blend of luxury comfort and perfect craftsmanship, and the illuminated door sills serve to remind any who enter the vehicle, of the kind of luxury experience they’re about to embark on. From its elongated body and wheelbase, the extra space not only enables supreme comfort within but represents an iconic, more imposing form beyond. According to MBUSA, the 2019 model instantly cuts a more elevated figure than before. The grille, inspired by a pinstripe suit, strikes a note of sheer exclusivity. A two-tone exterior paint finish — now available in nine different colors — conveys the vehicle´s classic pedigree. An optional double clear coat lends an unsurpassed sense of elegance to darker paint options — with the second coat hand-applied by trained specialists. The 2019 Maybach will be available for interaction at the Mercedes-Benz Tent at the Luxury & Supercar Showcase.

Mclaren 600LT: 

The arrival of the new 600LT, which is built to excel on roads and race circuits alike, marks both the beginning of the next chapter in the McLaren ‘Longtail’ (LT) story and the setting of a new benchmark for super-sportscar performance. The new McLaren 600LT epitomizes the McLaren philosophy of producing lightweight super-sportscars that deliver extreme performance and are exceptionally rewarding to drive. With the engine management system of the 3.8-liter twin-turbocharged V8 recalibrated and less back pressure from a top-exit exhaust system that is even shorter and more extreme than that of the McLaren Senna allowing the engine to breathe more freely, the 600LT can call on peak power of 592bhp at 7,500rpm and a maximum torque output of 457lb ft at 5,500-6,500 rpm. These outputs deliver astonishing levels of performance: 0-62mph takes just 2.9 seconds, matching the acceleration of the revered McLaren 675LT Super Series model (0-60mph in just 2.8 seconds). 0-124mph is achieved in a remarkable 8.2 seconds and the 600LT can continue gathering speed to a top speed of 204mph.

LFA Nürburgring Edition:

Only 50 of the 500 LFA hand-assembled were sported with the Nürburgring package, making this unit an exciting addition to our Lexus space at the Supercar Showcase.  At its release, it was valued at over $450,000 with 562 Horsepower and quicker gear changes; the specific package features a sport-tuned suspension, exclusive black mesh-type wheels, and a larger from spoiler & a fixed rear wing for improved speed and downforce.  The unit making its way to the Luxury & Supercar Showcase is white, which perfectly accentuates the Nürburgring Race Car Influenced Styling and Performance.

Porsche 918 Spyder:

An exclusive plug-in hybrid sports car that’s nothing less than a showstopper.  We’ll keep this one short and sweet because the 918 speaks for itself. At its top end, it reaches speeds of 211 mph with 877 hp and 944 lb-ft of torque. 

Last but certainly not least, we are excited to share that a McLaren Senna has been confirmed for our showcase, and will be viewable at all ticket levels. 

 

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The All-New V8 Levante GTS and 2019 Model Updates

The all-new Maserati V8 Levante GTS made its global debut this past July, at the Goodwood Festival of Speed- showing off all 550 horses of one of the most powerful engines in a Maserati.  The Levante GTS’ 3.8-liter twin-turbocharged V8 is a retuned version of the unit fitted in the limited super-sport (and top-of-the-line) Levante Trofeo, which by comparison is top-of-the-line with 590 horsepower. The GTS makes the total number of Levante configurations for North America at four, two featuring at 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged V6 engine and two with the new Ferrari-assembled 3.8-liter twin-turbocharged V8. 

The new Levante GTS is equipped with the staple eight-speed ZF automatic gearbox, and all 2019 models feature a more intuitive gearshift lever and shift pattern for shorter travel and improved operation. Shift from manual to automatic mode by shifting the lever from right to left, and the new “P” button will set the transmission into Parking mode. 

Thanks to its remarkable weight to power ratio of 8.6 lbs/hp, the Levante GTS needs only 4.0 seconds to reach 60 mph and achieves a top speed of 181 mph. These figures fairly describe a modern supercar but are disguised in a high-end SUV body thanks to the Levante chassis, which ensures outstanding levels of rigidity while providing a very low center of gravity. And as with all Maserati’s, an ideal 50:50 weight balance between the front and rear axle. In addition, the chassis has been tuned for the GTS to effortlessly handle the immense power output of its twin-turbocharged V8 engine and provides an exhilarating driving experience with no compromise in terms of long-distance comfort and active safety – two essential elements of the GranTurismo philosophy.

The Levante’s unmistakable design reached new levels of sportiness in the Trofeo version and the new GTS has adopted a similar styling theme, which focuses on the lower front fascia and the rear bumper, providing a sporty yet sophisticated presence. Available 21 & 22-inch wheels along with five different caliper colors cap off the bold Italian styling.   

Interior designers created a distinctive environment within the Levante GTS cabin providing it with standard Full Premium Perforated Leather seats, Alcantara headliner, unique instrument cluster graphics a 14-speaker Harman Kardon premium audio system and available Pieno Fiore natural leather seating for the ultimate in comfort.

Alongside the two V8 models, the Levante lineup has inherited new content, such as the Adaptive Full LED Matrix headlights as an option and standard Integrated Vehicle Control (IVC), which is already available on the Ghibli and Quattroporte sedans. Rather than simply correcting vehicle instability, the IVC function helps prevent it, providing enhanced active safety, improved driving dynamics and an even more exciting performance.

Subtle upgrades and new content for both Maserati sedans and the Levante.

All Ghibli, Quattroporte and Levante versions have adopted the redesigned gearshift lever previously introduced in the Levante Trofeo, featuring a more intuitive shift pattern, shorter travel and improved operation. The driver now has the option to use the eight-speed ZF gearbox in automatic or manual mode simply by shifting the lever from right to left, while a new ‘P’ button effortlessly sets the transmission in parking mode.

The MTC+ infotainment system on all three models has been enhanced with updated display graphics and improved climate control system ergonomics. In their sumptuous interiors, Maserati introduces for the first time the full-grain Pieno Fiore leather, which is incomparable to any other material in the automotive industry for its natural, soft feel and the unique character it attains throughout the years.

Pieno Fiore is standard in the Levante Trofeo and available as an option on all Levante, Ghibli and Quattroporte GranSport and GranLusso models – as well as Levante GTS – in three colors with specific stitching on the seats and double stitching on the door panels. Maserati also offers two brand new high-gloss interior veneers for the Ghibli and Quattroporte and three for the Levante.

Exterior color options have also been refreshed for MY19: There is a choice of ten colors for the Quattroporte and eleven for each of the Ghibli and Levante models. Two new tri-coat colors are now available, born to enhance the design of each, the iconic Rosso Potente and the deep dark Blu Nobile. The Maserati Design Centre has also created a specific front grille and side skirts exclusively for the Quattroporte GTS GranSport.

In the wide collection of alloy wheels designed specifically for every single Maserati model, there are five brand new designs in the MY19 catalog in 20 and 21-inch sizes, two for each of the Levante and Quattroporte models and one for the Ghibli. The 22-inch Orione forged aluminum wheel – the largest ever created by Maserati – is exclusively available for the new top-of-the-line Levante GTS and Trofeo.

As for the recently introduced Nerissimo package, it has been updated for MY19. It is now available in a wider range of new model-specific colors, combining black elements with dark LED headlights, tail lights and exhaust tips, black chrome detail finishing and new wheels with dark finish.

 

For any inquiries visit Maserati Dallas.

To read more visit Maserati Media.

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2019 Jaguar E-Pace: How To with the All Surface Progress Control

All Surface Progress Control (ASPC) is a low-speed cruise control that helps you to maintain optimum handling in low traction situations. I can be found in the Jaguar XE, the F-Pace, and most recently the new Jaguar E-Pace, available at Park Place Jaguar Land Rover DFW. 

ASPC helps you maneuver the vehicle on slippery surfaces, including snow, mud, water, grass, gravel, and sand. As explained in the video, the system can be enabled whether the vehicle is stationary or moving, when the brake pedal is fully released. This “cruise control” like system provides your Jaguar with controlled progressive assistance to:

  1. Pull away from a standstill, in a forward or reverse direction on level ground, and uphill or downhill.
  2. Perform low-speed maneuvering in a forward or reverse direction.
  3. Make progress and maintain a selected set speed up to a maximum of 19 mph (30 km/h).

You can operate the ASPC system by first selecting your driving mode based on conditions; second, select the required position for the gear selector; third, release the brakes to allow the vehicle to progress to the default speed depending on the driving mode; and finally the ASPC system maintains the default speed for descent control mode, but will exit the descent control mode if the accelerator pedal is pressed or the steering wheels’ Set+ button is pressed. Watch the video below for your ‘how-to’ on this safety system found in your Jaguar.

For more information on your safety and car systems, reach out to our team of product specialists at Jaguar DFW in Grapevine.  

 

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The New S60 Sedan: The First Volvo Made In the USA

Volvo Cars has entered the United States manufacturing space, inaugurating their South Carolina Plant during June 2018, with the new S60 being named the first Volvo vehicle to be manufactured here. It’s a manifestation of the luxury manufacturer’s commitment to the United States, which is an integral market for both the company and its new S60 Sedan.

“The new S60 is one of the most exciting Volvo cars we’ve ever made,” said Håkan Samuelsson, president and chief executive of Volvo Cars. “It is a true driver’s car that gives us a strong position in the US and China sedan markets, creating more growth opportunities for Volvo Cars.”

The new S60 is the first Volvo car to be sold without a diesel engine, signaling the company’s industry-leading commitment to electrification and a long-term future beyond the traditional combustion engine. In 2017, Volvo Cars was the first global car maker to announce its strategy that from 2019 all-new models will be electrified.

The award-winning turbocharged and supercharged T8 Twin Engine Plug-In Hybrid will be available in the new S60, delivering 313 horsepower with a rear electric motor adding 87 horsepower for a combined power output of 400 horsepower.  The T5 FWD and T6 AWD will also be available. The T5 FWD, T6 AWD, and T8 Twin Engine Plug-In Hybrid will carry an MSRP of $35,800, $40,300 and $54,400 respectively.

The new S60 is available via traditional purchase and lease, as well as via Care by Volvo. The new sedan sports Volvo Cars’ own Scalable Product Architecture (SPA) platform, safety technology, and infotainment system with the new V60 premium mid-size wagon, launched earlier this year, as well as the top-of-the-line 90 Series cars and award-winning XC60, all of which have achieved industry-leading safety ratings. This makes the new S60 one of the safest cars on the road- a feature not too surprising to see from one of the overall safest luxury car brands in the world. 

Technology To Make Your Ride More Enjoyable

The City Safety with Autobrake technology assists the driver in avoiding potential collisions, and is the only system on the market to recognize pedestrians, cyclists and large animals. In a world first for the mid-size sedan segment, City Safety now also engages auto braking to mitigate oncoming collisions.

The optional Pilot Assist system – which supports the driver with steering, acceleration and braking on well-marked roads up to 80 mph – has been upgraded with improved cornering performance. The S60 also includes Run-off Road Mitigation, Oncoming Lane Mitigation and other steering assistance systems. The optional Cross Traffic Alert with autobrake further enhances safety for people inside and outside the car.

Volvo Cars’ Sensus Connect infotainment system is fully compatible with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and 4G standard, and keeps drivers connected at all times. The intuitive control is a tablet-style touch screen interface that combines car functions, navigation, connected services and in-car entertainment apps.

Polestar Engineered

The new S60 will also be offered with a Polestar Engineered trim level – developed by Volvo Cars’ electric performance arm, Polestar. Polestar Engineered is only available on the T8 Twin Engine plug-in hybrid and is a complete offer with upgrades to the exterior and interior design, along with the car’s wheels, brakes, suspension and engine control unit, boosting the S60 T8 combined output to 415hp. 

Visit ParkPlace.com to see our entire Volvo Inventory at Volvo Dallas.

For more information on  Volvo USA news visit here. 

 

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Rooted In Racing Heritage: McLaren Houston Named Motorsports Dealer

Over the past few months, McLaren Houston has gone through a few notable updates, both of which will contribute to an elevated McLaren experience.  First and foremost, McLaren Houston is an official member of the Park Place family of dealerships. Now you can expect the same high-performance experience, personal service, and lux amenities that make Park Place, Your Place in Houston, Texas. But that’s not all, McLaren Houston has been named an official McLaren Motorsport Dealer- one of only five in the country.  This means that we have received the green light to sell McLaren track cars, including the 570S GT4. Below we discuss McLaren’s Robust Racing heritage and how its positively influenced McLaren GT and Motorsports- bringing high performance to our clients.

Racing Heritage Translates Into the Relentless Desire to Innovate

Like many performance-driven manufacturers, McLaren is a staple name in the world of motorsports, track cars, and racing.  McLaren Racing is focused in the world of Formula 1, which, according to the company, demands excellence: “To design, build and operate a Formula 1 car at race-winning levels requires focus, ambition, imagination, dedication and microscopic attention to detail.”

Both McLaren Racing and Formula 1 have blossomed over past 5-10 years with growing racing calendars, multinational hosts, employees, and rosters. McLaren Racing’s successes are driven by a passionate desire to innovate- a heritage that translates into the whole of the McLaren Group, including McLaren Automotive. The F1 knowledge and expertise have been instrumental when developing and enhancing technology for client road cars and track cars among other things.

On the Track with McLaren GT

Established in 2011, McLaren GT’s purpose is to build and support all GT race activities. The team is housed in Surray at the former home of McLaren Racing and are responsible for the design, development, and production of 650S GT3, 570S GT4, and 650S and 57S Spring models.

McLaren Motorsports takes this wealth of racing knowledge and gives our clients the opportunity to experience McLaren track performance like never before.

Superior Track-Honed Performance Found at McLaren Houston

McLaren Houston currently has the 570S GT available for purchase. The McLaren 570S GT4, an exclusive offering of McLaren Motorsport dealers, sports an absolutely stunning carbon fiber MonoCell II chassis architecture to add strength while reducing unit weight.  This model is the first time that the MonoCell II technology has been made available in the GT4.

It’s superior track-hone performance perfect for when you’re heading out to one of the Houston area’s many racetracks. 

If you’re interested in ordering a 570S GT4 of your own or want to learn more about other McLaren Motorsport offerings at McLaren Houston- contact us at www.mclarenhouston.com.

 

 

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Volvo XC60 Named “Best Luxury Compact SUV of 2018” by Cars.com

The XC60 scored a decisive victory over the competition and was considered to be the best in terms of monetary value in one of the most competitive sectors of the automotive market.

This week saw a team of editors from Cars.com, a leading digital automotive marketplace, select the Volvo XC60 as the market’s best compact SUV. The XC60 scored a decisive victory over the competition and was considered to be the best in terms of monetary value in one of the most competitive sectors of the automotive market.

The evaluation pitted seven of the top compact SUVs from around the world against each other in a week-long test spanning cities, suburbs, and drag strips. Vehicles were evaluated in 13 categories: interior quality, front-seat comfort, backseat comfort, cargo storage, in-cabin storage, multimedia features, convenience features, handling, powertrain, ride quality, noise, visibility and monetary worth.

The XC60 stole the show, placing first in eight categories and tying for first in another. Judges praised the XC60’s technology, luxury quality, and considered it to showcase the best rear seat of the group in terms of headroom. Further compliments went to the stylish interior and attention to detail — such as the sleek wood trim dashboard, and the addition of metallic accents across the air vents.

Volvo also took home the highest scores in safety, keeping in line with its rich history of automotive safety innovations.

 “Its winning combination of comprehensive technology, practicality, and quality, combined with safety features and value, are what propelled it to the top spot”, said Jenni Newman, Cars.com’s editor-in-chief.

The accolade will be added to a growing list for the 2018 XC60. One that already includes: World Car of the Year (2018), North American Utility Vehicle of the Year (2018), Best of New York Auto Show (2017), SUV of Texas (2018), and Car Connection’s Best Crossover to Buy (2018).

The final rankings for each tested vehicle were as follows:

  1. 2018 Volvo XC60
  2. 2018 Audi Q5
  3. 2019 Infiniti QX50
  4. 2018 Cadillac XT5
  5. 2018 Alfa Romeo Stelvio
  6. 2018 BMW X3
  7. 2018 Lexus NX 300

For more information, including in-depth scoring details, videos and images from the 2018 Cars.com Luxury Compact SUV Challenge, visit www.cars.com/news. 

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My Mercedes-Benz Saved My Life

Park Place Motorcars Fort Worth Mercedes-Benz E-300
 helps local woman avoid catastrophe on US-75

“My car saved my life!” exclaimed Pamela Haney. “On the afternoon of Monday, July 9th, I was entering Central Expressway at Lovers Lane via the entrance ramp. The speed limit on US-75 is 70 mph, so I was accelerating when the car in front of me suddenly peels off, revealing a flatbed tow truck stranded on the entrance ramp.”

Ms. Haney’s 2017 Mercedes-Benz E-300 is equipped with automatic braking and evasive steering assist to avoid or mitigate a crash. This safety feature in Mercedes-Benz has been bundled with forward-collision warning for a while, but the newer E-class models initiate braking earlier when the system detects an evasive maneuver is not practical.

“I didn’t even have time to react,” continued Haney, owner of Productivity Solutions, a North Texas paralegal services company. “I instinctively braced for impact as I saw the flatbed was going to come right through my windshield. My E-300 stopped the car for me! It didn’t skid. It didn’t waver or shimmy. It just stopped on a dime! I sat there for a minute stunned with the steel bed just inches from my face. I looked up and the guys in the tow truck were looking back with their mouths open. I’m sure they thought I was a goner! In all seriousness, had I not been in this car, I probably would be dead.”

The Pre-Safe Protection System offers Supplemental Brake Assist Plus and Pre-Safe Brake with Pedestrian Recognition. A stereo camera and a series of long, medium and short-range radars monitors the area in front of the vehicle. The information is processed in a control unit to provide supplemental or autonomous braking to prevent collisions. Haney has been a Park Place client for more than 10 years. She raves about the consistent level of professionalism at the Fort Worth dealership. “I’ve never felt pressured,” she said. “I always feel safe and secure.”

“I am thankful Mercedes-Benz is an industry leader in safety features and our team of technicians are experts in keeping every vehicle in prime condition,” said Park Place Motorcars Fort Worth General Manager George Johnson. “I shared Pamela’s story with our whole team because they can be proud of the brand and dealership they represent.”

“You better believe I’m not ambivalent any more about the technology in my car,” gushed Haney. “I love, love, love my car! I’m a loyal Mercedes-Benz customer for life. And there’s no dissuading me from keeping my business at Park Place!”

Park Place Motorcars Fort Worth is located at 5601 Bryant Irvin Road, just south of I-20 and west of the Chisholm Trail Parkway.

Ken Schnitzer founded Park Place Dealerships in 1987 with a single Mercedes-Benz dealership on Oak Lawn. Today, Park Place Dealerships employs more than 2,000 people and operates 17 full-service dealerships representing luxury brands including Lexus, Mercedes-Benz, Porsche, Volvo, Jaguar, Lotus, Land Rover, Rolls-Royce, Bentley, Bugatti, McLaren, and Maserati. A new Porsche dealership will open in Grapevine this summer. For more info, visit parkplace.com.