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

Phantom Evolution

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

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

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

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

2013: Adjustments to a “Timeless Interpretation”

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

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

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

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

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

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

Tags: 2013 Phantom, 2013 Rolls-Royce Phantom

MASERATI PUTS SPIRIT OF 523 HORSEPOWER BEHIND TOP THOROUGHBREDS AT KENTUCKY DERBY INCLUDING WINNER, ORB

Celebrating the first arrivals in North America of Quattroporte four-door and recent unveiling of the Ghibli sports sedan, Maserati salutes winning horse and team

At the world’s most famous horse race, Maserati celebrated the arrival of the very first examples of the all new Quattroporte reaching the shores of North America and the recent global unveiling of the Ghibli sport sedan. Many of the jockeys, including winner Joel Rosario, carried the famed Maserati name and Trident on their britches, bringing the spirit of the 523 horsepower Maserati V8 to each competitor.

The timing is noteworthy as both the Ghibli and the Quattroporte are designed with All-Wheel-Drive for Maserati performance even when conditions are less than perfect, as it was for the 139th running at Churchill Downs. As a brand with a nearly a century of tradition in competition, Maserati wishes to congratulate the winning horse Orb, Jockey Joel Rosario, Trainer Shug McGaughey and the team behind this victory.

About the 2014 Maserati Quattroporte:

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

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

The all-new architecture retains the Quattroporte’s exquisite handling with near 50:50 weight distribution, double-wishbone front suspension and a state-of-the-art five-link rear suspension.

The V6 twin turbo Q4 All-Wheel Drive variant is capable of a top speed of 177mph. The “Q4” system is capable of redistributing the torque instantly from full rear wheel drive to a balanced near 50/50 distribution between front and rear wheels when more traction is needed.

New standards of quality in design, development, fabrication and process controls are employed in the facility building the Quattroporte, while traditional hand-crafted design continues inside and out of the Quattroporte’s cabin. Interior luxury leaps forward technically, too, with features like a touch control screen, adjustable pedals, WLAN-based WiFi and an optional 15-speaker, 1280 Watt Bowers & Wilkins audio system.

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

Tags: 2014 Maserati Quattroporte

2013 Luxury Crossovers: Best Picks

When discussing 2013 luxury crossovers, the best picks offer style, utility, and fuel efficiency. It seems like crossovers recently burst on the scene but automotive manufacturers have worked to develop the concept since the 1950s. Current models boast improved performance alongside premier passenger comforts.

Crossover Definition

Since 2007, the crossover concept became a hot topic among consumers. According to Cars.Com, crossovers feature popular aspects of SUVs like storage and roomier seating, while driving dynamics similar to a traditional car. Modifying the vehicle undercarriage or the chassis and drivetrain, delivers greater internal cabin space and creates a smoother ride.

Top Picks for 2013

Here is a rundown of the top five luxury crossover picks according to U.S. News and World Report, RoadandTrack.Com and Edmunds.Com. All information is current as of February 2013.

1. 2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK models feature a six-cylinder engine for true driving power. A stop / start feature allows the vehicle to conserve gas while idling. Available options include front or all-wheel drive capabilities and BlueTEC diesel engines.

Five passengers fit comfortably inside the GLK cabin. Heated seats and entertainment features make road trips an enjoyable adventure. COMAND central control system allows drivers to access radio stations and temperature settings from their steering wheel. Vehicle pricing starts at $37,090 United States dollars (USD).

2. 2013 Porsche Cayenne received rave reviews from U.S. News and World Report regarding performance and passenger comforts. Engine options include traditional six or eight-cylinder units and a diesel powered six-cylinder model. All-wheel drive comes standard.

Five-passenger leather seating swaddles occupants in extreme comfort. A 10-speaker entertainment system offers crisp surround sound. The vibrant seven-inch touch screen panel easily controls internal mechanisms. Upgrades include Bose sound systems, navigation systems and additional passenger entertainment centers. Vehicle pricing starts at $49,600 USD.

3. 2013 Lexus RX350 like its predecessors, retains its role as the vehicle that can do it all for those who do it all. And you can’t help but feel keyed up every moment you spend with it. The most popular and well-rounded crossover wins many fans with its well-crafted chic interior, intuitive technology and supreme power with best in class fuel economy. The technology, especially, will thrill both novice and tech-savvy drivers.

The 3.5-liter V6 engine provides greater fuel efficiency and produces 270 horsepower using regular unleaded fuel, mated to a six-speed automatic transmission with intelligent shift control. Vehicle pricing starts at approximately $39,660 USD.

4. 2013 Volvo XC60 vehicles embody a chic, sensible vibe. A six-cylinder engine comes naturally aspirated or turbocharged for additional power. Front-wheel drive comes standard but all-wheel drive is available as a model upgrade. Reviewers gave the XC60 favorable marks for driving acceleration and strong engine performance.

The five-seat interior features high-definition radio transmission and Bluetooth connectivity. Additional upgrades include a rear passenger entertainment package and navigation system. Ample cargo space makes transporting larger items a simple task. Base models start at $33,042 USD.

The concept is not new, but crossover vehicles meet the needs of modern society. Families and single drivers alike do not want to sacrifice style for practicality.  These luxury crossover models get the job done with a little finesse along the way. Click here to see the 2013 luxury crossovers available now at Park Place Dealerships!

Tags: 2013 Luxury Crossover, Best Luxury Crossover, Luxury Crossover

The New Bentley Flying Spur Is Coming

According to Bentley, the new Flying Spur brings a level of choice that is nearly non-existent among most automotive manufacturers and allows owners of this incredible vehicle the opportunity to truly make it their own.

Bentley remained tight-lipped about many of the new Spur’s features before the vehicle’s launch, but that suspense was worth the wait as the company has excited Bentley enthusiasts all over the world from the auto show in Geneva, Switzerland.

The 2014 Flying Spur offers Bentley’s 6.0 liter W-12 providing 616 horsepower with a maximum torque output of 800 Nm. This impressive power accelerates the new Flying Spur from 0-60 mph in 4.3 seconds, with a top speed of 200 mph.

Bentley was extremely careful to avoid revealing too much of the car’s exterior prior to the big event, but even their preview video revealed some beautiful changes. By removing the Continental from the Spur’s name, Bentley could be attempting to distinguish the line more.

The most unexpected exterior difference is undoubtedly the car’s horizontal taillights, which is a striking facelift not seen on a Bentley offering in over a decade. A squared-off front end gives the sedan a more powerful stance than the sleek Continental GT and is appropriate for a four-door Bentley offering. The hood has been reshaped and new front and rear fascias were added. Newly redesigned side mirrors, “shoulders” over the rear wheels and a revised door design give the new Flying Spur a fresh, modern look while retaining the classic, beautiful style of the brand.

The interior remains an amazing testament to the attention and experience of Bentley’s fine craftsmen. Magnificent, highest quality leather hides are selected and hand stitched to create a supple interior that truly must be seen for yourself to be truly appreciated. Approximately ten square meters of hand polished and fitted wood trim encircles occupants in unmatched luxury, while a new twin-sealing system and additional door insulation eliminate unwanted road noise at even the highest speeds.

Find more information at www.NewFlyingSpur.com, or like Park Place Dealerships on Facebook for the latest updates.

Tags: Bentley Dalla, Bentley Flying Spur, New Flying Spur

Choosing the Best New Luxury SUV: The Lexus GX

There are very few automobiles that can handle being tough and luxurious at the same time, but the Lexus GX has managed to pull this off as it has time and time again. The latest sports utility vehicle offers supreme talent in both avenues. The Lexus GX offers a smooth ride and the ability to power through a rugged trail.

The GX manages this complex ability thanks to capable hardware living beneath soft leather and polished wood. Not only are there stabilizer bars, but also an adaptive suspension for all kinds of terrain. Also, Crawl control endows the GX with additional control when heading off-road, automatically braking and throttling to create outstanding uphill and downhill performance.

For an all-purpose mover that can keep a family in tow off the main road, that is just as comfortable as a quick trip into the city, one cannot go wrong with the Lexus GX.

Housing seven passengers, the Lexus GX comes in the base and premium flavors. The standard features include an auto-dimming rearview mirror, dual-zone automatic climate control, power-folding third row seats, a power tilt and telescoping steering wheel, a sunroof, heated front seats with eight way adjustment, driver memory settings, a power lumbar support, heated side mirrors, 18 inch alloy wheels, leather upholstery, running boards and wipers that can sense the rain. Other features include a camera for backing up safely and an audio speaker with an auxiliary audio jack, iPod connectivity, six CD changer, satellite radio, Bluetooth phone and audio and more across nine speakers.

The premium package allows drivers to add rear air conditioning, heated second row seats, a wood trimmed heated steering wheel, automatically dimming side view mirrors, adaptive xenon lights, adaptive variable suspension and better upholstery for the leather interior. Many of these can be added as options on the base model.

Other options that a user may pick up include power folding exterior mirrors, a lane departure warning system, a navigation system, front and rear parking sensors, surround sound audio and a rear seat entertainment system. Premium options include the crawl control and more.

As far as performance goes, a 4.6-liter V8 engine introduces 329 pound-feet of torque and 301 horsepower to the Lexus GX, and it sports a six speed automatic transmission that powers all four wheels through the dual range transfer case. With the right equipment, the GX is capable of towing upwards of 6,500 pounds. Testing shows it takes 7.2 seconds to reach 60 miles per hour. The Lexus GX achieves 15 miles per gallon in the city, 20 miles per gallon on the highway, and 17 miles per gallon when combined.

The standard safety features for the Lexus GX include front passenger knee airbags, front side airbags, rear side airbags, hill start assist, hill descent control, antilock brakes and traction and stability control. Brake testing shows the GX can screech to a halt from 60 miles per hour in 127 feet.

Interior

The level of precision in the Lexus GX is top notch. While the number of features available in the model means there are quite a few buttons, the buttons are positioned in an intuitive manner, allowing for ease of use. It is easy to read the gauges and the navigation system as well.

There are 92 cubic feet of cargo space with the lowered third-row seats, and the front row seats are very comfortable and convenient. Additionally, there is a swinging cargo door on the passenger side rather than the liftgate that is standard on other luxury SUVs, and it is easy to stow small packages with a flip up rear window.

Take a look at the outstanding 7-passenger Lexus GX at Park Place Lexus in Plano and Grapevine, or visit the Park Place Lexus website to see our current Lexus GX sales inventory.

Tags: Lexus GX, Luxury SUV

Superdome Eye Candy: Which Benz Beauty Will Steal the Show At The Big Game?

Mercedes-Benz has been creating a lot of buzz about the new 2014 CLA-Class four-door sedan. The luxury sedan is to be revealed in a much-anticipated Super Bowl XLVII ad featuring William Defoe, Kate Upton and Usher, it will be the talk of the big day. The splash of A-list film and music stars is intended to support the carmaker’s investment in a niche project in U.S. markets; the outcome will determine the future of German engineering here in the States.

A lot is being asked of the CLA-Class, the company’s new coupe-like executive sedan with the slashed price tag. Mercedes is counting on Kate Upton to showcase the virtues of an affordable Benz that is stylish and powerful. The commercial is clever and well choreographed so it is sure to be a media spot winner during the Big Game. The head-turner Mercedes-Benz expects the ad to be a fitting way to introduce the new beauty that goes on sale in April 2013.

What’s special about the new CLA-Class? Reporters got a closer look during the 2013 North American International Auto Show in Detroit this month. The hawkish, studded front grille provides a signature accent for an automobile that comes across as both classy and aggressive. The car is not meant to be huge, however, it aspires to have coupe-like dimensions. Its lingering frontal lines contrast with a cleanly docked rump that nevertheless accommodates four, full-size doors. If buyers choose the optional Sport Package, he/she will receive a full range of sports car features, which include yawning inlets and a rear diffuser.

The CLA-Class is technically well equipped with the latest anti-collision and attention-assist mechanisms to ensure safety standards are up to par with efficiency. The company’s innovative “mbrace2″ software provides remote and on-site security as well as full Internet syncing from car to cloud.

The coolest thing about the new CLA-Class is reported to be the best aerodynamic vehicle on the market “worthy of a supercar,” according to Germans creators. The previous holder of that record was also a Mercedes-Benz, the 2011 C-Class Coupe. Automakers are continuing to flaunt their superior with wind-friendly physics. As suggested to be the most aerodynamic and greenest of the CLA-Class models, 180 CDI Blue Efficiency will be released with the other models in April this year.

However, by the end of 2013, the full range of CLA-Class models will be available. Each model will tailor whatever a driver desires such as, both six and seven-speed transmissions, either manual or automatic.  All of the CLA-Class models are equipped with efficient four-cylinder engines. Some models are marked for optimum energy consumption, traction and four-wheel drive, and of course, turbocharged sports appeal with speed-sensitive steering. Also included but not forgotten is a firm grip of the wheel and napped suede.

The new CLA-Class intends to provide a luxury experience, complete with sporty bells and whistles to entice performance-leaning drivers. Surprisingly, the 2014 CLA-Class is wildly affordable by Mercedes-Benz standards for a cool, cost effective $29,900.

Mercedes’ Super Bowl commercial will sell the weighty reputation of a Benz to a younger generation with less disposable income but have the universal appetite for beauty, modern technology and the finer points of automobile engineering. German engineers are planning ahead by test-driving the CLA-Class in a smaller American market to see if newly affordable luxury catches on.

It’s a good touchdown for Mercedes’ flashy Super Bowl commercial preview that seems to confirm it. Why sell your soul to the devil to get close to fame, fortune and Kate Upton, when there’s a Benz “and everything that comes with it” available for under $30,000? Mercedes-Benz will be answering that question before a wide audience during the 47th Super Bowl, and Park Place Dealerships will be giving away a 1 year lease to a lucky Facebook Fan though their Fan Sweepstakes.

Tags: CLA-Class, Mercedes-Benz, Super Bowl

Lexus Stealth Swap: Park Place Lexus Helps Customer With A Spectacular Surprise

(This guest blog was written by one of our amazing clients at Park Place Lexus Plano, Robert Lee, who did an incredible job of providing a special Christmas surprise for his wife. It’s such a great story, that we thought you would like to read it too!)

Stealth Swap

It was one week before Christmas and I got a text message.  The text message (to paraphrase) asked if I would be interested in trading in my wife’s 2010 Lexus IS250-C with a 2013 model.  It was from a sales associate I’ve worked with before at Park Place Lexus of Plano.  While this may seem like a sales pitch, it was not.  The associate knew my wife and I were huge car enthusiasts.  No, we’re not made of infinite means and my wife’s car is in perfect working condition (it had less than 8,500 miles on it).  However, with the revised IS coming out next year and the “December to Remember” event at Lexus – he thought we could have an opportunity to get a great deal on a new car.  So a plan was hatched (BTW, this article is not about patting me on the back – more about the dedication Lexus puts into customer relations).

I am a firm believer that life is about experiences.  In front of me was a perfect opportunity to create an everlasting memory for my wife.  The plan went like this:  I would swap out her 2010 IS250-C with a 2013 IS350-C.  I knew that besides some very minor visual cues (day time running LEDs, GPS antenna shape change, telematics system) the cars would look identical.  Stephen Wedderburn (the sales associate) searched high and low and was able to locate for me an updated version of my wife’s car.  The cars were the same in every way – color outside, inside, options, wheels.

A little white lie later, I was able to take my wife’s old car and drove it to the dealership for the swap.  Having both cars parked side by side, I replicated the cabins.  I moved all her personal belongings from old to new.  I adjusted the seats, mirrors, radio stations.  Then I had to race home so I can program the home-link garage door opener before she returned home.

So the trap was set.  She returned home and didn’t notice a single thing.  Like a predator waiting for its kill, I patiently watched as she went about her day knowing that she will use her car again in the very near future.  And then it happened, she needed to leave the house.  She got in her car and was about to start it.  After a slight pause, she hopped out of the car and ran to the rear and noticed that it was an IS350-C (i.e. NOT her car).  Needless to say, the cat was out of the bag at that time.  Struck with shock and glee, she ran to me and thanked me for the amazing surprise.

While I had hoped that she would have driven away and then noticed it, it was great to be there to see her reaction.  I later asked what gave it away.  Her response was the “new car” smell.  For a flash of a second, she thought I had taken her car and gotten it detailed.  So she glanced at the touchscreen and noticed it squeaky clean.  Then lower she went on the center console and that’s when she noticed.  Her knowledge of Lexus cars is staggering.  She noticed that the air recirculation button now has an “Auto” setting (that was an IS350-C exclusive even back in 2010).  Go figure – the car was too perfect – that’s what gave it away.

In short, it was a surprise I could not have pulled off without the aid of Stephen and the amazing staff at Park Place Lexus of Plano.  His dedication to his job is evident in everything he does.  Considering that it was the dealership’s busiest time of the year (i.e. time when he can be making more sales if he was on the showroom floor), he took the time and effort in making this happen for me.  Don’t let his youth and dashing smile mislead you, he is a professional thru and thru.  We’ve purchased our last four cars from Park Place Lexus of Plano.  We have no reason to go anywhere else.  If what you want is a great car and to be treated with respect – please go visit Stephen at Park Place Lexus.  You will not be disappointed.  Kudos to the entire staff at the dealership.  They are all second to none.

Tags: Lexus IS, Lexus Plano

The Timeless Mercedes-Benz Gullwing: A Legend Reborn

Photo Source: http://www.sportscardigest.com/2009-automobiles-london-auction-results-rm-auctions/

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

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

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

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

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

SLS AMG GT3 45th Anniversary Edition

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

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

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

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

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

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

Tags: Mercedes-Benz Dallas, Mercedes-Benz Fort Worth, Mercedes-Benz Grapevine

Bentley Unwraps New Collection In Time For Christmas

As the winter nights draw in, Bentley unwraps its new collection in time for Christmas. Bentley presents a selection of desirable gifts including the timeless Bentley boys and girls range and the newly introduced racing inspired pieces.

To celebrate the 10 year anniversary of Bentley’s victory at the Le Mans 24-hour race, an assortment of beautifully crafted items reflecting a heritage of speed, endurance and true team spirit have been created. The success of Le Mans is celebrated from the retro leather weekend bags through to a distinctive set of espresso cups. The 4 cups are decorated with adventurous imagery and saucers carrying the two winning car numbers, 7 and 8. This gift will be a true joy for those who desire a touch of triumph under the tree this year.

True to the Bentley ethos of building bespoke and hand-crafted cars, the gifts reflect these core values and beliefs. One of the newest additions arrives in the entertaining form of a Geoffrey Parker Games backgammon set which draws on 50 years of hand craftsmanship. This exquisite item and everything it encompasses can be customised to match the specification of the customer’s beloved Bentley. From the hand-bound leather casing to the subtle Bentley wings on each knurled checker, absolutely no detail is overlooked. This bespoke piece allows family fun this season to be tailored to each and every individual household.

The quality of Bentley can be enjoyed by all ages this Christmas with the enchanting assortment of Bentley boys and girls items. Young driving enthusiasts can begin their journey behind the wheel early with the 1:12 scale model remote control Bentley Continental Supersports. Just like the real thing, although not quite reaching the 204mph top speed, this effortless driving experience will be sure to deliver excitement to the lucky recipient.

Lindsay Weaver, Director of Licencing and Branded Goods at Bentley Motors, comments, “The spirit of Bentley can be captured and wrapped this Christmas. From the smallest, most thoughtful gifts to the majestic, unique statement pieces, the latest collection enables Bentley to take pride of place not only on the driveway but under the Christmas tree too.”

For the full collection or to purchase any item from the Bentley Collection, please visit www.shop.bentleymotors.com, the Bentley Boutique at the Bentley Motors Factory in Crewe or at Bentley Dallas.

Tags: Bentley Dallas, Christmas Car Gifts

Neiman Marcus Edition McLaren 12C Spider: Dallas Client To Receive An Excellent Gift This Holiday Season

In an amazing testament to the excitement that surrounds the launch of the new McLaren MP4-12C Spider, Neiman Marcus held the first sales of 12 special edition drop-top McLaren’s as “Fantasy Gifts” in their annual Christmas Book.

Receiving an overwhelming response for the 12c Spider package, all 12 of the vehicles were spoken for in under 2 hours. Better yet, one of them is even heading to Dallas for a Park Place client! We are looking forward to this momentous occasion, and there will be more coverage to come as we deliver this incredibly rare special edition car!

See what Motor Authority had to say about the event below!

“It took less than two hours for all 12 McLaren MP4-12C Spiders offered by retailer Neiman Marcus to sell out after sales of the limited edition model commenced on Wednesday.

The Neiman Marcus special was listed at $354,000, an $85k premium on the regular 12C Spider, though buyers will be able to avoid the waiting list as McLaren hasn’t even started deliveries of the car yet.

That premium also gets you a trip to the UK where you’ll get to visit the McLaren Technology Center and enjoy a dinner with the supercar manufacturer’s chairman, Ron Dennis.

The Neiman Marcus version of the 12C Spider is finished in Volcano Red and comes with lightweight diamond-cut wheels with gloss black highlights. Inside, there’s more of the glossy black trim, along with contrasting red stitching on the leather surfaces, a numbered plaque and a custom luggage set.”

Read more about the 2 hour Neiman Marcus McLaren sale at MotorAuthority.com

Tags: 12C Spider Dallas, McLaren 12C Spider, Neiman Marcus McLaren