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Game Day at the Park Place Auto Auction

An up-close-and-personal look at Park Place’s Auto Auction for area authorized dealers.

It’s 4 p.m. on Wednesday afternoon at Park Place Auto Auction in Plano, and the non-stop auctioneer chatter over the booming loudspeakers is silent now. The twin driveways are devoid of vehicles, while administrators inside the facility quietly wrap up the mounds of paperwork required to transfer ownership of nearly 200 vehicles.

But a mere two hours prior, the place was a buzzing beehive. Sedans, coupes, convertibles, SUVs, crossovers, pickups, minivans, sportscars and other vehicles of every make and manufacture creep slowly yet continuously along parallel driveways while about 200 potential buyers – independent and franchise dealers alike – raise a hand or give a nod and a wink to convey their bids. The din from fast-talking, sharp-eyed auctioneers is loud and urgent. Enormous wall-mounted monitors display a dizzying blur of vehicles and ever-rising numbers for all to see.

“The whole process is actually well under control,” says Kenny Parmentier, Operations Manager of Park Place Auto Auction. “But to outsiders, it tends to look like complete mayhem,” he adds with a chuckle.

Where Did It All Start?

The idea for getting into the auction business came from Park Place President Jordan Case, who wanted to create a clean, comfortable and well-kept environment where authorized dealers could find an extensive selection of both high-performance luxury cars and top-quality vehicles of all kinds, and engage in an efficient, hassle-free purchasing experience. In short, he wanted the auction business to function with the commitment to excellence that makes Park Place, well, Park Place.

More often than not, he’s on hand to savor the experience, which kicks off every Wednesday at 2 p.m. sharp. From that point, a vehicle is sold every 38 seconds. In the next 90 minutes, about 195 out of about 200 vehicles will have changed hands. And then it’s all over. Until next week, when it all starts again.

Where Do the Cars Come From?

Most of the vehicles come from Park Place pre-owned lots where they’ve been for 65 days, the result of trade-ins on something newer and shinier. Or they’re front-line vehicles that are getting long in the tooth as a new model year looms. The auction gives them all a chance to find new homes – and Park Place more room for more desirable pre-owned vehicles that will hopefully turn faster.

Celebrating its two-year anniversary in February, the Park Place Auto Auction business is run in partnership with America’s Auto Auction, a full-service company catering to dealers in 23 locations across 15 states. They handle all the day-to-day activity – checking vehicles in, taking pictures, and handling collections, payments, and titles.

Parmentier works for them, as does his five-member team.

“We’re running at a 95 percent success rate,” he says. “Once a vehicle is sold, the buyer has 48 hours to complete the sale and move the vehicle off the lot. It’s a fast-paced business and really quite exciting. It’s game day!”

In 2019, the business sold 8,647 vehicles or about 720 a month. Those that don’t sell one week – called “reruns” – go through the line again a week later for another shot at success, and are usually snapped up by eagle-eyed bargain hunters.

That certainly wasn’t the case when a 2019 Rolls-Royce and a 2018 McLaren came down the line.

“We don’t get those rarities all that often,” Parmentier grins, “but when we do, they’re show-stoppers!”

 

 

 

 

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Watch List for the 2020 Park Place Pre-Owned Event

Did you know that we have a wide array of Pre-Owned and Certified vehicles in our showrooms and inventory? Introducing the Park Place Pre-Owned event, which is a great way to experience affordable luxury to kick off the new year. With over 1400 Pre-Owned vehicles, including over 700 Certified Pre-Owned models and an array of non-certified Pre-Owned vehicles,  there are plenty of cars and SUVs to choose from.

To help guide you during the Park Place Pre-Owned event, we have highlighted notable models across our dealerships that could very well be the next vehicle in your driveway.

 

Jaguar F-Type & Land Rover Range Rover Sport

If you love responsive handling with a sports car vibe, the Jaguar F-Type offers coupe and convertible options for sale. Whether you enjoy a hard rooftop or want to let the top down during the springtime, drivers will enjoy the experience behind the Jaguar wheel.

The same handling experience can be found with the Range Rover Sport. Whether you are driving around the Dallas tollways during the week or navigating mountainous terrains during vacation, the Range Rover Sport SUV adds more throttle to your commute.

When purchasing the Certified Pre-Owned Jaguar or Land Rover, the CPO warranty covers 7 years from the original in-service date or when your purchase reaches 100,000 total miles, whichever comes first.

Lexus NX

The Lexus NX features modern interior design complemented by swift SUV performance. Ever since the NX debuted with its 2015 year model release, drivers have enjoyed the comfortable seating and adaptable cargo space. When purchasing a Certified Pre-Owned NX, L/Certified warranty offers you four complimentary maintenances for two years or 20,000 miles, whichever comes first.

McLaren 720S

Available at our Premier Collection, the McLaren 720S is ready for action as soon as you the start engine. The 720S is designed to be an everyday vehicle but also pushes the limits of relentless performance. Those interested Certified Pre-Owned McLarens can enjoy an additional 12 months or up to 12,000 miles of McLaren Qualified warranty.

Mercedes-Benz GLC

Mercedes-Benz meets the needs of drivers who love the comfortability of a luxury SUV paired with the drivability of a compact sedan. Certified Pre-Owned GLCs are available dating back to 2016 models. Any GLC300 comes with an unlimited mileage Certified Pre-Owned warranty for an additional year – with the possibility to extend coverage for two additional years at the time of purchase.

Porsche Macan

As SUV growth continues to climb industry-wide, the Porsche Macan is at the forefront of the SUV revolution. Not to mention, the performance crossover SUV is Porsche’s top-selling vehicle. Since its introductory 2015 model, Macan owners have enjoyed the athletic ride paired with the authentic Porsche styling. Owners who purchase a Porsche Certified Pre-Owned model will also enjoy 2 years of unlimited mileage warranty coverage after the expiration of the new vehicle limited warranty.

Volvo XC90

The top-selling Volvo model concludes the Park Place Pre-Owned Event vehicle watch list. Whether you need additional cargo space for a weekend getaway or daily driver to pick up the kids, the XC90 provides ample room for up to 7 occupants. With additional safety support and cozy comfort, Volvo’s full-size SUV helped the Swedish brand achieve their highest sales volume in 12 years.

With your purchase of a Certified Pre-Owned Volvo, owners will enjoy a 5 year or unlimited-mile warranty coverage from the original in-service date of the car. Additional warranty coverage can also be purchased up to a total of 10 years and unlimited miles at the time of purchase.

If you are in the market to upgrade your vehicle during the Park Place Pre-Owned Event, please visit parkplace.com to find your favorite Pre-Owned options.

 

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Recruiting the Next Generation: Meet Park Place’s Recruiting Team

Team approach key to finding, keeping and promoting great people.

“Finding people is easy,” says Park Place Recruiting Director Matt Howe. “Finding talent is another thing entirely. That’s where our team comes in.”

Howe joined Park Place with one goal in mind – build a united team dedicated to bringing the best and brightest to Park Place.

But he’s quick to point out that it’s a job that goes well outside the hours of 9-5.

“Good recruiters are always looking for top talent, even during nights and weekends. Everyone you meet could be a candidate, or a source for other great people,” he says.

He also points out the importance of internal referrals. “If you’re a member, we’d very much like to meet your friends and family members, because if they’re like you, chances are we’ll like them, too.”

Meet the team!

Bailie Fabik

  • Three years in recruiting, the last 22 months at Park Place.
  • Graduated Texas A&M (BA in History and minor in Sociology).
  • Specializing in Fixed Ops positions: Technicians/Tech Trainees, ASM/Internal ASM/ASM Trainee, Estimators, Body Techs, Detailers, PDR Technicians.
  • The best thing to happen to me in 2019 – engaged to my boyfriend of 5 years and getting married next summer!

Josh Gonzalez

  • Five years in recruiting, joined Park Place in May 2019.
  • Previously recruited for Richardson Police Department (youth program).
  • Graduated UT Dallas (BS in Psychology and Criminology minor).
  • Responsible for Valet/Car Wash/Parts Warehouse/Parts Specialist roles and miscellaneous hourly roles.
  • Has a 2-year old Miniature Schnauzer.

Jaqueline Ramos

  • Joined Park Place in 2015 at Park Place Motorcars Arlington, joined recruiting in 2019.
  • Responsible for adding new hires to MyHR, create PAF, track background/drug test, start date.
  • UT Arlington (Bachelors in both Spanish and Psychology).
  • Fluent in English and Spanish, understand French, currently studying Russian and German.

Jerold Varghese

  • Joined Park Place in September 2017 as SEM at Lexus Grapevine. Moved to Recruiting in July 2019.
  • Responsible for Sales and Variable Operations.
  • Bachelor’s in Accounting from DeVry, MBA in Finance from Keller Graduate School.
  • Fluent in four languages (English, Hindi, Malayalam, Urdu) and lived in Saudi Arabia, India, and the U.S. before turning 21.

Steven Spiker

  • Joined Park Place in August 2018 – 19 years in the automotive industry.
  • Recruiting for all Mercedes stores, Porsche Dallas and new JLR in Austin.
  • Two great kids who are “my world,” two dogs and loves golf.

Matt Howe, Director

  • Joined Park Place in August 2018.
  • Has been an automotive industry recruiter for the last 6 years
  • Responsible for managing the overall recruiting workflow for Park Place.
  • Graduate of Georgetown Prep and Washington College with a BA in Political Science and Government.
  • Paratrooper in U.S. Army 82nd Airborne and Weapons Intelligence Sergeant in U.S. Army Reserve.

 

 

 

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One-Of-A-Kind 2021 Lexus LC 500 Convertible To Be Auctioned For Charity at Barrett-Jackson

News from Lexus.

They say good things comes to those who wait, but “they” clearly weren’t thinking about the new V8-powered Lexus LC 500 Convertible. Introduced at the Los Angeles International Auto Show, the 2021 LC Convertible will go on sale this summer, but those champing at the bit can place a bid on a one-of-a-kind LC Convertible as quickly as next week at the Barrett-Jackson auction in Scottsdale, Arizona. The auction will take place at approximately 4:30 p.m. Mountain Standard Time on January 17, 2020. Every cent of the hammer price will be split evenly between two very deserving charities – Boys & Girls Clubs of America® and the Bob Woodruff Foundation.

ONE-OF-A-KIND CONVERTIBLE

All 2021 LC 500 Convertibles are powered by an impressive naturally-aspirated V8 engine that produces 471 horsepower and 398 lb-ft of torque, but there are several things that make the LC 500 Convertible auction vehicle* truly one of a kind. For starters, collectors will gush over the fact that the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) will feature the final six digits of 100001. Based on the Inspiration Series, it will feature the breathtaking Structural Blue exterior paint and elegant white semi-aniline leather interior, but this vehicle will include unique blue brake calipers that are tucked behind the exclusive 21-inch Liquid Graphite-colored forged alloy wheels with gloss black accents. Liquid Platinum color accents can be found on the headlamp garnishes, side intake garnish, side mirrors and taillamps. Inside each door, the auction vehicle will be fitted with carbon-fiber scuff plates with the note: “LC Inspiration Series Launch Exclusive 1 of 1.”

An impressive collection of additional collectibles and experiences are included in the auction package as well. The winner will receive a framed sketch of the LC Convertible, a portfolio with production-line photos and a one-of-one certificate signed by vehicle chief engineers as well as general manager of the Motomachi plant where the vehicle is produced. The auction winner will also receive the very first luggage set from iconic travel brand Zero Halliburton’s new design series with custom Lexus cues – which, importantly, fits nicely into the LC Convertible’s trunk. The highest bidder will also receive a curated driving package that includes a Lexus Performance Driving Experience with brand ambassador Scott Pruett, a three-night hotel stay for two at Pebble Beach Resort, a round of golf for two at Pebble Beach Golf Course, and more.

RAISING MONEY FOR CHILDREN & VETERANS

Every cent raised from the auction of the LC 500 Convertible will be donated to two charities: Boys & Girls Clubs of America and the Bob Woodruff Foundation. Boys & Girls Clubs of America focuses on creating after-school programs for kids and teens across the nation, with the goal being “To enable all young people, especially those who need us most, to reach their full potential as productive, caring, responsible citizens.” The Bob Woodruff Foundation finds, funds and shapes programs benefitting post-9/11 impacted veterans, service members and their families long after their time in uniform.

“We’re very excited to expand our flagship LC family with the launch of the all-new 2021 LC 500 Convertible, but the most important thing about the auction is the money we raise for two amazing charities,” says Lisa Materazzo, vice president, Lexus Marketing. “We’re thrilled to support Boys & Girls Clubs of America in its efforts to provide services to children across the country as well as the Bob Woodruff Foundation’s goal to help our veterans and their families.”

The vehicle will go on the auction block at approximately 4:30 p.m. Mountain Standard Time on Friday, January 17. The vehicle auction page can be found here. Those interested in bidding can do so by either registering as a bidder on Barrett-Jackson.com (click on “Bid”) or on-site in the auction office. In addition to in-person bidding, there are online, phone and absentee options available. The auction can also be viewed live via the Livestream on the home page of Barrett-Jackson.com.

*The LC 500 Convertible prototype on display at Barrett-Jackson will be representative of the actual production vehicle that will be delivered in the summer of 2020.

2021 Lexus LC 500 Convertible

Charitable Partners:

Bob Woodruff Foundation

Boys & Girls Clubs Of America

 
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McLaren Dallas Gives 11-Year-Old Children’s Health SM Patient the Ride of His Life in a McLaren 720S

No medical degree was required to evaluate 11-year-old Cory’s excitement when he saw the bright yellow, 2020 McLaren 720S parked in front of Children’s Medical Center Dallas. His jaw dropped open and he shot his mom a quick look that implored, “Is this for real?!?”

“We’ve worked with Park Place for many years,” explained Audra Cozart, Corporate Partnership Gift Officer for Children’s Medical Center Foundation. “When Park Place approached us with this opportunity, we talked to our Child Life Specialists, who get to know our patients very well and knew Cory has a love for cars.”

Everyone was careful not to promise a ride until it was confirmed Cory’s oxygen apparatus, which is about the size of a carry-on bag on wheels, would fit inside the passenger cabin of the two-seater performance car.

“Cory was born with a congenital heart defect,” explained Cory’s mother Penny. “Over the years, he’s had many procedures, but he’s outgrown all the repairs that have been made. Last August, Cory was admitted to Children’s Health with heart failure. There’s no further surgery or anything else that can be done for him. We’re just taking it one day at a time and trying to have as much quality time with Cory as possible.”

Like Launching a Rocket

McLaren Dallas General Manager Heath Strayhan volunteered to be Cory’s driver. As Cory settled into the passenger seat, Strayhan gave him an insider’s tour of the supercar’s controls and features.  Cory’s reaction of his thrilling ride in the McLaren 720S is priceless.

“It’s like launching a rocket.” he said, pointing to the “START” button. 

Then, explaining the “C-S-T” selector knob, “C, for Comfort, where the suspension and handling is smooth and easy… S, Sport, tightens everything up to better grip the road… and T, Track, means hold on!”

After securing Cory’s oxygen container in the passenger’s floorboard, Strayhan told him to buckle up. Cory shot a quick glance at his mom that screamed, “STAT!” and flashed her the biggest smile.

Time for a Drive

Strayhan eased out of the parking lot with a distinctive McLaren growl. “When you’re driving fast, you want the car to be as predictable as possible,” he calmly told Cory, while turning tightly into sharp turns. “Smell that?” He asked, referencing the high-octane fuel coursing thru the engine. “That’s a beautiful smell. Feel that shift? BANG! Hear that rumble?”

While experiencing all the nuances of the 700-horsepower 720S’ performance, Cory could only respond with long, soft mutterings of “Yeah!” and “Wow!” and, “How do you turn the volume up?” After about a half-hour, Cory asked, “How fast will it go?”

“212 miles per hour,” answered Strayhan, who has spent countless hours driving McLarens on the track. “But I’ve never gone that fast.”


“I bet it’d be fun,” Cory replied with sheer wonderment.

Park Place Cares Continues

Over the past 30 years, Park Place has helped raise millions of dollars in contributions through grants, in-kind donations, event sponsorships, and unique experiences, working with more than 300 community organizations across DFW. Last year the luxury automotive group introduced Park Place Cares to represent their philanthropic efforts in the arts, medical research, children’s advocacy, and education. 

“Today, Cory got a special ride in a McLaren 720S,” said Anam Ali Hashambhai, Experiential Marketing Manager for Park Place Dealerships. “He got to experience the roar of the engine and the exhilaration of acceleration. For a little while, he got to just be a kid who loves cars, and not think about the challenges he faces every day.”

After the ride, Strayhan popped the McLaren’s bonnet to reveal gifts for Cory: Dallas Stars tickets, a McLaren ballcap, several LEGO sets (including a McLaren Senna,) as well as a scale model of a McLaren P1 Supercar.


“Park Place and Children’s Health have a long-standing relationship that makes opportunities like this possible,” concluded Strayhan. “McLaren Dallas and McLaren North America partnered to make this a one in a million experience. And I’m sure everyone involved got as much or more out of it as Cory.”

About Park Place

Founded in 1987 with a single Mercedes-Benz dealership on Oak Lawn, Park Place operates 17 full-service dealerships representing luxury brands Lexus, Mercedes-Benz, Porsche, Volvo, Jaguar, Land Rover, Rolls-Royce, Bentley, McLaren, and Maserati. For more info, visit parkplace.com.

About Children’s Health SM

Children’s Health is the eighth-largest pediatric health care provider in the nation and the leading pediatric care system in North Texas, providing a full spectrum of health care services – from daily wellness and primary care to specialty visits and critical care. Holding eight disease-specific care certifications from The Joint Commission, Children’s Health has been consistently named of the nation’s top pediatric providers by U.S. News & World Report. The Children’s Health system includes Children’s Medical Center Dallas, as well as Children’s Medical Center Plano. Our Children’s House inpatient rehabilitation hospital, multiple specialty centers, rehabilitation facilities, physician services and the Children’s Medical Center Research Institute at UT Southwestern. For more information about Children’s Health, visit www.childrens.com.

 

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New GTS Model From Porsche: The Sportiest Macan

Porsche completes the Macan series with a distinctly sporty model. The new Macan GTS launches with a powerful engine, performance-oriented chassis, characteristic design, and enhanced equipment. 

Among other things, the new member of Porsche’s compact SUV family has earned the abbreviation GTS, which stands for “Gran Turismo Sport”, due to its outstanding driving dynamics. Combined with the standard 20-inch RS Spyder Design wheels and the generously sized cast iron brakes, the new Macan GTS impresses with the agility and responsiveness of a true sports car. 

Design 

The standard Sport Design package with new front and rear trim and striking side skirts lends the car a characteristic appearance. The front apron and front section are characterized by black painted elements – a distinguishing feature of all Porsche GTS models. Other key design features include:

  • LED headlights with Porsche Dynamic Light System (PDLS)
  • LED headlights can also be optionally ordered in black with PDLS Plus
  • the 20-inch RS Spyder Design wheels in satin-gloss black
  • red brake calipers and the trim strips in high-gloss black

Premium Materials and GTS Exclusive

The Porsche Macan GTS is outfitted with premium materials including:

  • Alcantara on the seat panels, center console armrests, and door panels
  • multifunction sports steering wheel with wheel rim in smooth leather
  • sports seats with eight-way adjustment and pronounced side bolsters for support during dynamic cornering
  •  BOSE® Surround Sound system
  • GTS leather upholstery in Carmine Red or Crayon
  • smartphone tray with inductive charging 
  • Adaptive cruise control with Traffic Jam Assist
  • Park assist including rearview camera
  • heated windscreen

For the full article from Porsche click here.

More Facts and Figures

The Macan GTS is available for order. Contact Park Place Porsche in Dallas or Porsche Grapevine for more information.

 

 

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New 2021 Jaguar F-Type Introduced

From Jaguar USA- a new 2021 Jaguar F-Type has been announced this month featuring a redesigned model with a new exterior and interior design, enhanced tuning, and more technology and convenience features to elevate this definitive Jaguar sports car.

Read more for a quick snapshot of the “need-to-know” information and stay tuned to Park Place Jaguar as more information is released over the new year.

Overview

The new F-Type still embodies the Jaguar design DNA in its purest form, but now, looks more beautiful than ever with even more driver reward. Drivers have the options between a 4-6-8 cylinder options, all with eight-speed transmissions with full manual control.

The new F-TYPE also offers more driver-focused technology, including a reconfigurable, high-definition 12.3-inch TFT instrument cluster, Touch Pro infotainment system with Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ as standard and software-over-the-air functionality so future software updates can be made at the customer’s convenience without additional trips to the service center.

“State-of-the-art technologies together with luxurious materials and finishes deliver beauty with purpose in an interior which will delight driver and passenger alike even before the engine starts and the journey begins. Jaguar has been making sports cars for more than 70 years, and that rich heritage has inspired the team to create something truly extraordinary.”

Exterior

The proportions of the new F-Type are instantly recognizable, but there are a few key design enhancements that make this new F-Type a pure representation of Jaguar design language. 

  • Super-slim LED headlights with subtly updated ‘Calligraphy’ signature ‘J’ daytime running lights blend perfectly into the ‘liquid metal’ surfacing of the new clamshell hood.
  • The rear haunches enhance the vehicle’s inherently dramatic, purposeful form. The LED rear light clusters have been subtly updated too. Now slimmer, to match the headlights, they feature a bolder, ‘Chicane’ light graphic introduced by the all-electric I-PACE performance SUV. 
  • The bumpers are new, and introduce bolder surfaces with discreet signature graphics to enhance the overall design and provide greater differentiation across the model range, from the F-TYPE to the F-TYPE R-Dynamic to the F-TYPE R.
  • A new clamshell hood design sweeps elegantly back from the slimline LED headlights. 

And that’s just a few of the subtle, yet powerful updates made to the exterior of this iconic sports car for an overall more muscular tone form front to back.

Interior

Inside, the driver-focused ‘1+1’ cabin envelops the occupants with luxurious materials such as Windsor Leather, Suedecloth and Noble Chrome, while Jaguar craftsmanship is embodied in beautiful details such as monogram stitching on the seats and door trim.

Other updates to the elegant interior include:

  • the 12.3-inch reconfigurable HD TFT instrument cluster and Jaguar InControl® Touch Pro™ infotainment system
  •  12-inch reconfigurable HD TFT instrument cluster with graphics unique to the F-TYPE. This offers a choice of three display themes, including a full map. True to sportscar form, the default setting sports a large central tachometer.
  • the F-TYPE features Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ as standard13, along with software-over-the-air functionality

The intense eye for detail even touched the seatbelts (yes, you heard that right). The seat belt guides are finished with discreet ‘Jaguar Est. 1935 markings’, which are proudly repeated on the glove compartment release button surround. This subtle reference signifies the year the Jaguar name was first used by company founder Sir William Lyons to brand one of his beautiful cars.

Performance

A range of powerful, responsive engines in the 2021 F-TYPE includes four-, six- and eight-cylinder options with 296 hp, 380 hp and 575 hp respective outputs. All are matched to eight-speed Quickshift transmissions with full manual control capability using either the SportShift gear selector or the steering wheel-mounted paddles.

The new 2021 Jaguar F-Type will be available in an F-Type R configuration, F-Type R Dynamic, and F-Type core models. Learn more here.

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Member Spotlight: Nick Carimi, Service Director at Jaguar Land Rover DFW

“It’s nonstop around here, for sure,” says Nick Carimi with a giant smile, clearly expressing that he loves every second of it.

He’s on the phone one moment, then striding to confer with a colleague the next, then out on the service drive to make sure all’s well – it is – then back to his computer to shoot email replies, file reports, follow up service requests and tend to the myriad of things that a Park Place service director does.

His story was far different in 2008, when he arrived in big-city Dallas from small-town Geneva, Ohio, fresh from Edinboro University with a degree in sports management. He had two suitcases and a referral from his half-brother Tony – currently Park Place COO, then Service Director at Motorcars Dallas – about a position with Park Place Lexus Grapevine.

“The economy was tanking, so there weren’t a lot of jobs around that fit my major,” he explains. “And frankly, I didn’t really know what Tony was doing, but he was always talking about how great Park Place was, so I thought this would be a solid opportunity.”

He got the gig as an assistant service manager (ASM) and found that the position’s constant buzz of activity suited his high-energy personality. Then, a dizzying series of transitions throughout the organization saw him in a variety of roles. In 2011, he transferred to Park Place Motorcars Dallas as a service manager, then moved to Motorcars Fort Worth in 2014 as service director, and then to Motorcars Arlington in the same role.

Then he snapped up a sales manager position in 2018, eager to experience “the other side of the house.” And when a position as service director became available at Jaguar Land Rover DFW earlier this year, he grabbed it.

“The past 12 years have just flown by,” he marvels. “With all that movement, I’ve got an extensive network of expertise that I can tap into anytime day or night. That’s a huge benefit to me and to our clients.”

A Strange Find

That network came in handy when late one night, a service tech came into his office with news of an unusual find in a demonstrator vehicle.

“Our CEO, Neil Grossman, tells this story better than me,” Nick says. “But what happened is that a tech found a bag literally stuffed with cash — $50,000. We didn’t know who it belonged to or where it came from, so we quickly put it in the safe while I called around for advice on what to do. The next morning, a gentleman called, quite frantic, explaining that he’d accidentally left an important package in one of our cars and could we help? We took all of the rights steps in confirming his identity and reunited him with his money.”

“But to me, the interesting part of this story is the integrity of our members all down the line,” Nick asserts. “Nobody thought twice about doing the right thing when it would have been easy to do a bad thing and probably get away with it. It’s all about trust and in a nutshell, that’s Park Place.”

In His Spare Time

In his rare spare time, Nick likes to play a little golf. “I have a 30 handicap,” he laughs ruefully. But with a three-year-old boy and a five-month-old girl, he says, “It’s kids, kids, kids all the time. Throw in two absolutely crazy Labradoodles and it’s constant mayhem.”

But he also says he’s incredibly grateful for his home and work life. “There’s good work-life balance and the opportunities to grow at Park Place are remarkable. There’s a great atmosphere throughout the company, and the culture challenges and inspires members to stretch out of their comfort zone, show what they’re capable of and have a lot of fun, too.”

Nick Carimi and Mason Waddell, Valet

To apply for a career at Park Place Dealerships visit our Careers page.

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Good Things Come In Small Packages: Review of the 2020 Volvo S60

The tried-and-true hallmarks of Swedish automaker Volvo have always been safety, iron-clad reliability and fine craftsmanship. And if you’re going to be known for something, those are good things.

But in the past few years, Volvo’s upped its reputation ante in terms of performance and design, too. Take a look at the latest generation of the XC40, XC60, and XC90 SUVs and the S90 sedan and V90 wagon, and you’ll see a decided shift to refined athleticism.

They’ve applied those attributes to their latest iteration of a perennial favorite, the 2020 S60.

“The S60 is surprisingly sporty, as well as beautifully crafted and extremely comfortable,” intones Park Place Volvo Sales Experience Manager (SEM) Kurt Rongey. (He has the deep, reassuring baritone of a classical music station announcer, which he in fact was for 17 years at Dallas’ WRR 101.1.) “But it’s also about paying attention to the little things, and that’s where the S60 really shines.”

The S60 plays in a wildly competitive field – the compact, entry-level luxury sedan market – which is populated by vehicles such as the Audi A4, the BMW 3-series and the Mercedes C-class. In this arena, attention to detail is critical. And inside and out, the S60 delivers the goods. 

The exterior looks lithe, lean and muscular, with taut lines, a sweeping roofline and those instantly recognizable taillights and “Thor’s Hammer” emblazoned headlamps. It looks eager to go just standing still.

Move into the cabin for a deeper appreciation of Swedish contemporary design – roomier than one would expect, with plenty of leg- and head-room for 6’ 2” and up occupants. Materials are all first-class, fitted and finished with precision. Textured aluminum provides intriguing brightwork, and the wood paneling is rich and vibrant.

Even little things grab your attention. The engine toggle switch and the sound system’s volume control are knurled and have a solid feel similar to what’s found in a Bentley or Rolls-Royce. Graphics are crisp and detailed on both the digital instrument cluster and the Sensus infotainment system’s touchscreen.

And the seats! Cossetting and comforting, they’re richly upholstered in fine leather and are a soothing place to while away one’s time whether just commuting or driving long distances.

Even the base “Momentum” T5 designation is richly equipped, while luxury and performance climb higher with the “Inscription” and “R-Design” trim levels. Drivers will find rewarding performance from the base model’s 250-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four, equipped with front-wheel drive and an eight-speed automatic transmission. There’s no turbo lag and the transmission shifts like butter on a warm day.

“When a client comes in to check out the S60, I first steer them to test drive the T5 Momentum,” says Rongey. “That way, they get a real feel for the depth and range of Volvo’s artistry and precision.”

It also doesn’t hurt that, with a starting price of just under $36,000, the T5 is a downright bargain.

For those who prefer a wolf-in-sheep’s-clothing mode, there’s the T6 designation, which is also available in all three trim levels and features the same buttery gearbox, but is mated with a sporty 316-hp turbocharged and supercharged 2.0-liter engine, augmented by all-wheel drive.

And in the R-Design, with its stiffer suspension, you’ll definitely surprise that teenager in his Mustang GT when you go roaring off the line.

Not that a Volvo driver would ever do that, of course. 

“I really like the S60 lineup,” concludes Rongey. “From the base model on up, you get everything you want with no compromise. It’s sporty, refined, attractive, packed with value, beautifully appointed and good looking inside and out. You find yourself smiling when you drive it.”

 

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A ‘Your Park Place’ Guide to the Mercedes-Benz Sedan Line-Up

Have you ever gone shopping and were overwhelmed with options? Many people feel that way when it comes time to shop for their next vehicle. From make, model, and trims, it can be difficult to narrow down your dream car to just one car. Follow along as we look into what makes Mercedes-Benz models differ from one another- and maybe we can help you as you finish up your holiday shopping!

Before diving into these models, we must explain the difference between a coupe, sedan, and wagon.

  • A coupe is traditionally a 2 door vehicle with a fixed top and sloping roofline.
  • A sedan is a standard 4 door vehicle with a fixed top.
  • A wagon is also a 4 door vehicle with more cargo room than a sedan.

The Rookie of the Year: A-Class

A new member was added to the Mercedes-Benz sedan roster this calendar year. The 2019 A-Class is a wonderful introduction for anyone new to the luxury vehicle market. If you’re a tech-savvy professional, the A-Class comes with a variety of functions to make your drive easier. The A-Class became the first Mercedes-Benz model to feature Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system.

MBUX uses customizable intuitive speech recognition that learns you on the fly as you recite voice commands. If you’re looking for the coffee before work, ask your MBUX assistant for the nearest Starbucks location. The system can also be controlled via the steering wheel, touchpad, or touch screen. If you are looking to join the luxury sedan market for the first time, the A220 sedan is a great start to your career.

The Class Favorite: C-Class

A popular choice for entry-level sedan lovers who are new or currently in the luxury market is the C-Class. Even as SUV sales continue to rise, the C-Class was the highest volume Mercedes-Benz model sold in 2018. Many factors play into the continued popularity of the C-Class especially the peppy performance.

C-Class drivers will love is how shifty the car moves. Whether you are in the city or highway, the C-Class also provides a variety of driving styles to keep you intrigued. The ECO, Comfort, Sport, and Sport + drive modes were boosted last year by the horsepower increase from 241 HP to 255 HP. From an early morning commute to work or late-night trip to dinner, the C-Class is versatile enough to adapt to your driving demands.

The Superstar: E-Class

If safety is your top purchase requirement, the E-Class is the sedan for you. The 2019 E-Class was a Top Safety Pick+ by the International Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The safety recognition identifies good or advanced ratings in vehicle and accident protection (C-Class, GLC and GLE models also received the IIHS recognition). When you are driving in rush hour traffic, PRE-SAFE technologies with blind-spot assist are available to E-Class drivers that support your vehicle and your occupants during potential driving dangers.

The Jack of All Trades: S-Class

A sedan that changes from a super sports car to a luxury locomotive, the S-Class is the pinnacle of exclusive luxury vehicles. All technology, performance, and safety with the A, C, and E-Class models is enhanced for S-Class owners. But imagine having all of that, but still need a pick me up after work. Well, the S-Class provides that energy for you with the Energizing Comfort Control. When you need motivation, the large Mercedes sedan can improve your wellness as it matches the climate controls, music, seating temperature with massage programs. Enjoy a big mood with the purchase of Mercedes’ big sedan.

Stay tuned as we follow up with Mercedes-Benz coupe vehicles and future additions to the Mercedes-Benz sedan lineup. If you have interest in a new Mercedes-Benz sedan, view one of the new models available at one of our four Park Place Motorcars locations in Arlington, Dallas, Fort Worth and Grapevine.