Mercedes-AMG and Aston Martin Formalize Technical Partnership

The development of a partnership between Mercedes-Benz and Aston Martin has been a long time coming. The news dates back to 2008, and over the five years since was supposed to lead to a rejuvenation of both the Maybach and Lagonda brands. That program never quite took off, but the tie-in was forged afresh in July when the two automakers signed a letter of intent over a renewed partnership. And now that partnership has been formalized.

In a deal just announced, Mercedes-AMG will build a new V8 engine for Aston Martin that will power a new generation of luxury GTs for the British marque, presumably to replace the 4.7-liter V8 in the Vantage. The relationship appears to be similar to the one already in place between AMG and Pagani, only in this case, will involve Daimler taking as much as a five-percent stake in Aston Martin and an observer seat on Aston's board.

The technical partnership is also set to lead to the supply of electric and electronic systems, and could incorporate "additional areas of cooperation in the future." For the official press release, check out the full article on Autoblog.

Fascinating Holiday Traditions Around the World

Early December to New Years is holiday season when a variety of traditions and events take place all over the world. You're likely well aware of the holiday traditions in your own country and those passed down in your family, but there are some other really interesting ones that take place in other countries. From running around mostly naked to burning down a 43-foot tall goat, it's not the standard Santa and reindeer you're used to.

The Gävle Goat in Sweden 

The Gävle Goat is a 43-foot high goat that's been put up every year in Gävle, Sweden since 1966. As much of a tradition as it is to put up, it's also a tradition to try to burn it down. As of 2009, the poor goat has been burned 24 times - in 2005, two guys dressed as Santa Claus and a gingerbread man burned it down and in 1970, it didn't even last a full day before it was torched. 

Red underwear run in Spain 

In La Font de la Figuera, there's been a tradition for several decades to run through the streets wearing only red underwear on New Year's Eve. They should also be purchased for you by someone else. Be prepared to be quite cold -- the average temperature of a Spanish December is 54.5 degrees.

Kentucky Fried Chicken Dinner in Japan 

Eating KFC is certainly not odd, but in Japan, Christmas means eating food from the restaurant. It's actually recommended to place their orders for Christmas dinner two months ahead of time. They sell "Christmas Barrels," which include salad, fried chicken and chocolate cake -- in some locations, they sell out of the barrels. They eat the meals from December 23 to 25, in which the restaurants earn about 50% of the total sales in an average month.

Beach Party in Australia 

While Americans are usually bundled in jackets in December, Australians are busy frolicking in the warm weather. In December, the average temperature in Sydney is a balmy 77.2 degrees while in NYC it's a bracing 41 degrees. Bondi Beach can have upwards of 40,000 people spending time there on Christmas Day.

Eating Kiviak in Greenland 

Those in Greenland have a rather interesting cuisine on Christmas Day. They eat Kiviak, which is when raw flesh of Auks is put into sealskin for months until decomposition sets in. It's considered a delicacy in Greenland.

Terrifying commutes from around the world

Tired of rush-hour traffic? Exhausted from hour-long drives to work? These people's commutes will make yours look like a walk in the park!

1. Anyone who has to drive along the North Yungas Road in Bolivia. Where's that horse and buggy when you need it?

2. Anyone hoping to get on this train in Beijing. Claustrophobia is a valid excuse for being late to work... we hope.

 
3. Anyone who constantly has to risk their life by driving under the Devil’s Nose. Must be quite a sight when it rains.

4. Anyone who has no choice but using a zip line to get to town in Colombia. For a handful of families living there, zip lines are the only way to cross a river and not a source of recreational amusement.

5. Anyone who has to cross the Hussaini Bridge in Kashmir. The bridge divides a village in two - on one side are houses, on the other are farms. What was that old saying about a house divided?

10 Spectacular Roads You Need To Drive On Before You Die

1. Rohtang Pass — Himachal Pradesh, India

2. Great Ocean Road — Victoria, Australia

3. Atlantic Ocean Road — Averøy, Norway

4. Hana Highway — Maui, Hawaii

5. Highway 99 “Sea to Sky Highway” — British Columbia, Canada

6. Los Caracoles “Snails Pass” — In the Andes between Argentina and Chile

7. Øresund Bridge — Denmark and Sweden

8. Going-to-the-Sun Road — Glacier National Park, Montana

9. Guoliang Tunnel — Taihang Mountains, China

10. Stelvio Pass — Eastern Alps, Italy

Mercedes-Benz M-Class Wins the 2013 U.S. Ideal Vehicle Award

The 2013 Ideal Vehicle Awards, hosted by California-based automotive research and consulting firm AutoPacific, had two great news for Mercedes-Benz USA, since the M-Class went home with two major awards.

The ML won first place in the “Luxury Crossover SUV” category, beating all its competitors on the US market, but it was also the “2013 Overall Winner” of the Ideal Vehicle awards.

To find out more, read the full article at AutoEvolution.

"From One Second to the Next" by Werner Herzog Shows the Consequences of Texting While Driving

This past August, legendary filmmaker and historian Werner Herzog released "From One Second to the Next", a short, but poignant look into the consequences of texting while driving.

The film is a PSA sponsored by four major phone companies-- AT&T, Verizon, Sprint and T-Mobile, who originally approached Herzog to make the film in an effort to combat a growing cultural phenomenon where texting-related accidents are becoming increasingly all too common.

For Herzog, it's a sharp turn outside the norm from his usual works, which often focus on themes of isolation and wilderness, as can be seen in films like "Grizzly Man" and "Encounters At the End of the World". Nonetheless, "From One Second to the Next" is as much an accomplishment in cinema as it is an important message that should be adopted by anyone who gets behind a wheel.

Watch "From One Second to the Next" here

Calling All Car Lovers: Four Classic Car Movies

#1. Rebel Without A Cause (1955) follows the lives of young, middle-class American teenagers dealing with the difficulties of suburban life. When a troublesome stranger shows up (James Dean), their quiet world quickly becomes rocked. This movie is filled with classic scenes of beautiful, vintage cars, not to mention James Dean's motorcycle.

 
#2. American Graffiti (1971) is a close look into the American culture of "cruising". Set in the early 1960's, this movie is eye candy to anyone who enjoys the looks and feel of this iconic era. It's a coming of age tale perfect to share with a date or significant other.

 

#3. The Italian Job (1963) is a British-film and possibly the most iconic car movie of all time. Featuring the Cockney-accent of Michael Cain (and of course the man himself), it's a story of explosions, car chases, beautiful scenery, and mobsters. Be careful, however, as the 2003 remark with Mark Wahlberg is less than on par with the original featured here.

 

#4. Genevieve (1953) is a British romantic-comedy that is yet another film perfect for date night. If you enjoy black-and-white aesthetics and nostalgic nuances, pop this classic film in. As for the plot, it follows a lovely young couple as they involve themselves in the Veteran Car Club of Great Britain, an actual organization that sponsored the movie. 

Trick-or-Treating Safety!

• Plan costumes that are bright and reflective. Make sure that shoes fit well and that costumes are short enough to prevent tripping, entanglement or contact with flame.
  
• Consider adding reflective tape or striping to costumes and trick-or-treat bags for greater visibility. Because masks can limit or block eyesight, consider non-toxic makeup and decorative hats as safer alternatives.
  
• Hats should fit properly to prevent them from sliding over eyes. When shopping for costumes, wigs and accessories look for and purchase those with a label clearly indicating they are flame resistant.

Road Trip Tip of the Day!

Plan ahead but be flexible. Have a general idea of where you want to stop, but be flexible, so you don’t miss unexpected delights. 

Plan ahead but be flexible. Have a general idea of where you want to stop, but be flexible, so you don’t miss unexpected delights. One night we found a listing in the AAA book for the Schmidt’s Museum of Coca-Cola memorabilia. Being Schmidts ourselves, we thought it was worth a look. The next morning we got in the car, typed the address in the GPS and looked up to see the museum right next to the hotel. - See more at: http://familyshare.com/11-road-trip-tips#sthash.BcuT05lz.dpuf

Plan ahead but be flexible. Have a general idea of where you want to stop, but be flexible, so you don’t miss unexpected delights. One night we found a listing in the AAA book for the Schmidt’s Museum of Coca-Cola memorabilia. Being Schmidts ourselves, we thought it was worth a look. The next morning we got in the car, typed the address in the GPS and looked up to see the museum right next to the hotel. - See more at: http://familyshare.com/11-road-trip-tips#sthash.BcuT05lz.dpuf

Top 3 places to get your car washed in Clearwater!

1. Sunshine Brushless Car Wash

1175 Court St
Clearwater, FL 33756

(727) 447-3219 

2. Waxin Willy's

1196 Court St
Clearwater, FL 33756

(727) 467-9512 

3. Coachman Car Wash

23331 US Hwy 19 N
Clearwater, FL 33765

(727) 797-6809

MAGIC BODY CONTROL -- 2014 S-Class Features

The new S-Class scans the road ahead using MAGIC BODY CONTROL. This improved active suspension system can almost entirely compensate for body movements resulting from uneven roads, which significantly reduces structural movement and greatly enhances driving comfort.

First drive review: Mercedes-Benz S-Class

There may be many ways of defining the so-called law of diminishing returns but, in the case of the new Mercedes-Benz S-Class, it goes something like this: the better you make something, the more difficult it is to improve upon.

And it is true the new S-Class is demonstrably better than the one it replaces, being quieter, faster, aerodynamically superior, more economical, with a more sumptuous interior and even better looking.

But if you’re looking for the kind of ground breaking technology that has made previous S-Class variants the titans of their age – things like anti-lock brakes, electronic stability control, even airbags – then the new car is more a case of advancement by degrees.
From an active safety perspective the new car’s headline act is its combination of Distronic Plus with Steering Assist which is as close to being a self-driving car as is available on the road today.

With the cruise control engaged the driver can take their hands off the wheel and on the highway it will keep within its lane with gentle steering adjustments, brake when other cars move into view and politely warn the driver to start steering for themselves. 

At lower speeds it will detect, warn the driver and then brake automatically for errant pedestrians or cars that cross its path at intersections.

We’ve tried it, and it works brilliantly. The system will be available as an option on the S350 Bluetec diesel when it arrives late this year, and probably be standard on the more expensive V8-powered S500 that goes on sale at the same time.

The only problem is, instead of being an S-Class innovation, this driver assist package is already available on the smaller E-Class on sale now in Australia meaning the usual Mercedes practice of technology trickling down from the S-Class is going the other way.
The main piece of unique S-Class technology, albeit one aimed at comfort rather than safety, is the so-called Magic Body Control system of improving ride quality. Twin cameras give a stereoscopic view of the road ahead and feed information to the active suspension which then moves accordingly over a bump or pothole rather than reacting to it.

Rather than being an incremental improvement over the standard suspension, MBC totally transforms the S-Class’s ride. Driven repeatedly over the type of speed hump that blights suburban roads, with the system turned off there’s a thump, a rise and fall of the body and a resulting wallow; turned on, the car barely moves as the wheels rise and fall almost imperceptibly beneath.

The system is certain to be an extra-cost option on lower priced (it’s difficult to say cheaper) versions of the S-Class. But forgetting about added-on technology for a moment and looking at the car itself, it’s difficult not to agree with Mercedes’ Vice President of program management Dr Uwe Ernstberger who baldly states “we want to offer our customers nothing less than the best car in the world.”

Providing that customer is after a large sedan costing northwards of $210,000 that envelops its occupants in absolute luxury, the S-Class delivers.

For starters, it is almost eerily quiet. Even the S350 Bluetec emits barely a whisper from its 3.0-litre V6 engine as its 190kW of power and 620Nm of torque wafts the 5.246 metre sedan (130mm less in short wheelbase guise) along the American style freeways Mercedes launched the car upon in eastern Canada.

More impressive is the lack of wind noise, a legacy of aerodynamic detail – even including the deletion of raised lettering on 17-inch sized tyres - that has resulted in a drag co-efficient of 0.24. Perhaps more importantly, the smooth bodywork has given the S-Class a flowing, sculpted look largely free of styling excesses that have marked more recent Mercedes sedans. The result is an appealing understated elegance that suits the S-Class perfectly.
The S500 adds some velvet-clad punch to the mix with its turbocharged 4.7-litre V8 providing 335kW of power and slightly more torque than the diesel. Performance is strong (Mercedes claims 0-100km/h in 4.8 seconds from the two tonne limo) and readily available at just the squeeze of the throttle, while the ride quality from the active suspension with MBC offers more control and less squishiness than the S350’s standard air suspension.
Speaking of weight, the combination of steel underpinnings and aluminium outer body panels has resulted in weight savings of up to 100kg, aiding both acceleration and reduced fuel consumption.
Even more performance will be available from the 400kW-plus S63 AMG which gets to Australia at the same time as the S350 and S500, while the long wheelbase, V12 S600 gets here mid next year at the same time as the V6 turbo S400 and the S300 Bluetec Hybrid. The S-Class coupe and convertible, and possibly an S500 plug-in hybrid will follow.

Inside the S-Class, the driver is faced with a broad sweep of dashboard that alternates in style from the almost cheesy – including the quilted pattern to its upper section, a retro-style “Mercedes-Benz” badge on the lower part of the two-spoke steering wheel, and cheese-grater grilles on the optional Burmester stereo speakers – to the decidedly high tech.
Into the latter category fall the fully projected analogue dials of the instrument panel to the massive, wide-screen information display atop the centre console. Instead of being accessed as a touch-screen, there’s a menu based dial down below with a hand rest that flips back to reveal telephone dialling controls, while further up is a sweep of buttons for ventilation options.

If it all sounds a bit too PlayStation for the more conservative buyer, then the chromed, circular air vents with their pop-out on/off dials brings things back to the twentieth century.
Fewer Australian owners will find themselves in the back seat than in markets such as China but in long wheelbase variants especially (including S350, S400, S500 and S600 in Australia) there’s plenty of leg room, plus the option of twin powered seats, squishy down-filled head rests and a mobile office fit out to go with the S-Class’s Wi-Fi hotspot internet access if and when it is available in this country.

Other options (likely to be standard on higher priced versions) will range from the whimsical such as the Air-Balance pods that waft scented air into the cabin, to the almost incomprehensibly high-tech.

Take the latest version of Mercedes Night View Assist that now recognises animals on the side of the road and highlights them on an instrument panel display. It does the same with pedestrians, but also directs a few blasts of light their way from the LED headlamps to warn them of the car’s approach.

Taken as a sum of its parts, the new S-Class may not offer the huge advances some of its predecessors gave the automotive world. But add them all up, and include the fact it cossets its occupants in a cocoon of quiet and comfort in a striking exterior with an effective array of drivetrain options, and it is difficult not to be impressed.

Courtesy of: Drive

We have a new 5-star review on DealerRater! Way to go, team!

"Wes, help me all the way since the online inquire up to the lease, he was always helpful and answered all my questions. Thank you." 

To view more outstanding reviews, click here.

Here's a simple trick to get your window's truly streak free!

When you're cleaning the exterior of your windows wipe in an up-and-down motion. When cleaning the inside of the windows, wipe in a side-to-side motion. When you are finished, if there are any streaks, you'll be able to target them by knowing which side of the window they are on, depending on which direction the streaks go.

Mercedes-Benz Vehicle Testing -- Behind the Scenes of "Heat" Commercial

Beautiful day? Well any vehicle can handle that, but what happens when it's a humid 115°F? Or a bone-chilling -15°F? Neither you nor your Mercedes-Benz may ever experience conditions as extreme as these, but we're not satisfied until we know that if you do, you'll get through them safely. It's testing that's excessive, unnecessary and the lynchpin of our philosophy of "the best or nothing."

AMG Driving Academy "Carousel" -- Mercedes-Benz Performance Vehicles

At the AMG Driving Academy, students learn how to take some of the world's greatest high-performance vehicles all the way to the edge. Lap times get faster, corners get sharper, control becomes greater. But every once in a while, we cut loose and let it all hang out.

2014 Mercedes-Benz CLA45 AMG - A Really Hot Little GT Plants The Seed For A Better AMG

Mercedes-Benz has AMG on an impressive growth curve these days, the official name of the effort being Performance 50. By the 50th anniversary of AMG in 2017, the Mercedes performance division will produce 30,000-plus units per year, up from today's 20,000 or so. In addition, AMG will boast a catalog of 30-plus models, and a greater dedication to making AMG cars truly nimble performers in every sense will be a priority. Within that very full agenda, this new CLA45 AMG is certain to be an important contributor on all accounts.
The thrill monitors at AMG have a long-established reputation for creating large, open-road rockets that err on the side of brute force and everyday comfort over zippy, tight-feeling sports car finesse and balance. The strategy has worked wonders for the company's sales ledger and created handsome levels of profit per unit, but entire developing sectors of the premium hot-car market have been knowingly left out of the AMG equation. While there are exceptions, AMG has never been considered a maker of truly agile machinery that's easily tossed around.
The very first thing that we notice while driving the CLA45 AMG – on schedule for North American deliveries beginning in November with a reported starting price of $47,450 – is exactly how lively its new 4Matic chassis can be. It's an entirely new feeling for an AMG, and it's entirely welcome by us. Some will complain about the price being asked for this super CLA-Class, but this little sedan is a true AMG of the new genre, and as such, it might just be something of a bargain. 

Courtesy of: Autoblog

Tips for an eco-friendly car wash!

#1: Get off the pavement.
If you change nothing else in your car-care routine, park your vehicle on a flat, permeable surface(lawn, gravel, or dirt) rather than on pavement. Natural microbes in grass, soil, and dirt work as natural filters, breaking down some of the nasty compounds in your wash water and preventing them from running off into the nearest storm drain.

2014 E-Class Coupe -- Mercedes-Benz Two-Door Models

From their unique-in-class pillarless hardtop design to their uninhibited performance, the E-Class Coupes set you free to express your sense of style and indulge your love of driving.

Here’s your weekly “Maintenance Tip”: Maintain Your Air Conditioning!

If you've ever lost your air conditioning on a hot summer day, then you know what a big difference a little cool air makes. The best way to tell if your air conditioner has a problem is if it can't generate or maintain air temperatures that are 50 degrees Fahrenheit (10 degrees Celsius) below the ambient outside air temperature.

2014 Mercedes-Benz S Class Starts Rolling Off Assembly Line

The 2014 Mercedes-Benz S Class should be arriving at dealerships next month, and in preparation for that, the first few S Class units have reportedly started rolling off the assembly line at the carmaker’s Sindelfingen, Germany plant.  The S400 Hybrid, apparently, will be the first car released for the consumer market; in the photo above, Mercedes CEO Dieter Zetsche and manufacturing head Andreas Renschler are there to commemorate the moment as the S Class prepares to make its debut in a few weeks from now.   The 2014 Mercedes-Benz S Class is scheduled to debut stateside in the fall.

Reports claim that Mercedes has invested almost a billion Euros in its Sindelfingen facility; this plant actually churns out several other Mercedes models, but several S Class variants, including the flagship sedan, are being manufactured there.  The plant will also take care of manufacturing the S Class Coupe, which will supplant the outgoing CL Class.  This isn’t the first time such has been speculated, but a press release from Mercedes suggests that the name change may become official once the S Class Coupe is released.

On the business side of things, Mercedes’ investments were made in an effort to curb production costs by as much as two billion Euros, or $2.66 billion USD, by the end of 2014.  The Sindelfingen plant makes use of new, more cost-effective procedures and technology, including a new join casting process for aluminum alloys on the 2014 Mercedes-Benz S Class.  

New advances in engineering have also resulted in energy consumption per vehicle getting reduced by about 20 percent.  Further, Mercedes-Benz staff has been retrained, and the new “pick-by-projector” logistics system also allows for a more cost-effective system; here, workers choose the storage unit with the required piece when choosing parts.  This new system’s effect on production costs may fully manifest itself once the rest of the six S Class variants enter production.

Courtesy of: US Daily Voice 

DISTRONIC PLUS -- Mercedes-Benz USA Owners Support

DISTRONIC PLUS® cruise control automatically adapts your set speed to the vehicle ahead, even if it slows to a stop. Learn how to operate its features to make driving in traffic easier than ever.

Mercedes-AMG establishes lap record in the "Grüne Hölle" ("Green Hell")

The Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Coupé Electric Drive circled the Nürburgring Nordschleife (“north loop”) in a record time of 7:56.234 minutes. Therefore, the electric AMG super sports car is at the same time the first electrically-powered series production vehicle, which masters the legendary race track in under eight minutes. The record time of the SLS AMG Coupé Electric Drive was notarially certified. Two weeks after the first overall win for the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG GT3 in the 24 Hours Nürburgring, a further member of the SLS AMG family impressively demonstrates its potential on the most difficult race track worldwide.

“Mercedes-AMG impressively shows the potential of the SLS AMG Coupé Electric Drive with the new record on the Nürburgring Nordschleife. Mercedes-AMG is the first vehicle manufacturer which makes it possible to circle the Nordschleife in under eight minutes with an electrically-powered series production vehicle. This record run is another proof for our constant innovative vigour,” according to Ola Källenius, Chairman of Mercedes-AMG GmbH.

“For the first time, an electrically-powered series production vehicle circles the Nürburgring Nordscheife in under eight minutes. The record for the SLS AMG Coupé Electric Drive in 7:56.234 minutes on the Nordschleife shows the special position of our innovative and unique drive solution. With the extremely efficient battery technology deriving from Formula 1, four electric motors positioned close to the wheels, the individual wheel torques “AMG Torque Dynamics,” the SLS eSound and our ambitious “AMG Lightweight Performance” design strategy, the SLS AMG Coupé Electric Drive generates a breathtaking sensation unlike any other model out on the road,” according to Tobias Moers, Head of Overall Vehicle Development and member of the Board of Management of Mercedes-AMG GmbH.

The SLS AMG Coupé Electric Drive, with which Mercedes-AMG set up the record on the 20.832 kilometres long traditional race track in the Eifel, corresponds to the series version, which celebrates its launch in June 2013. The currently strongest AMG high-performance car has four electrical motors with a total output of 552 kW (751 hp) and maximum torque of 1000 Nm (738 lb-ft).
The gullwing car is therefore advancing to become the strongest and fastest electrically-powered series production vehicle in the world. The SLS AMG Coupé Electric Drive accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in a mere 3.9 seconds and can reach a top speed of 250 km/h (electronically limited).

A new dimension of driving performance – the AMG brand pledge is fulfilled to remarkable effect by the outstanding performance dynamics, which come courtesy of AMG Torque Dynamics and are made possible by the wheelselective all-wheel drive. The most “electrifying” gullwing model ever has been developed in-house by Mercedes-AMG GmbH. The extremely powerful highvoltage battery for the SLS AMG Coupé Electric Drive is the result of the collaboration between Mercedes-AMG and Mercedes AMG High Performance Powertrains in Brixworth in the UK and is setting the pace in energy density, power density and efficiency. Here, the British Formula 1 experts were able to draw on their extensive experience with KERS hybrid concepts.

The car’s agile response to movements of the accelerator pedal and the linear power output are a source of pure delight: unlike with a combustion engine, the build-up of torque is instantaneous with electric motors – maximum torque is effectively available from standstill. The spontaneous torque build-up and immense power delivery without any interruption in traction on the one hand are combined with completely vibration-free motor running characteristics on the other.

Courtesy of: Mercedes-Benz Newsroom

Road trip tip: Stay off the chain-restaurant train

Do a little research before you go, or use your smart phone to find stellar local fare along your route. Good food is everywhere, even in the middle of nowhere. Just make sure you don't attempt any eating challenges. Sure, the promise of gruffling a five-pound ostrich burger for free is tempting, but you and your passengers could pay a heavy price afterward.

Check out the pre-owned car of the day - A 2012 Mercedes-Benz C-Class C250 Sedan!

Click here to learn more and come down for a test drive today!

All-new S-Class is beautiful!

When an all-new S-Class makes its debut, it compels the entire auto industry to rethink not only its definition of what constitutes excellence, but what's possible for the automobile itself. That time has come again.

Concept GLA -- Mercedes-Benz Sport Utility Vehicle

Presenting the Concept GLA, a preview of what will soon become the latest member of the Mercedes-Benz family of SUVs. Powered by an efficient 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, 4MATIC sends all 208-hp and 258 lb-ft of torque to all four wheels. It's going to be an all-new Mercedes-Benz SUV, but it's going to be built on a longstanding reputation.

Driving Tip of the Day!

 

Driving Tip: No matter where you are, keep in mind that your children are seeing their first and most frequent example of how to become a good driver.  Put down the phone and focus! By showing a good example it is an easy way to create aware drivers and reinforce the practice in yourself.

Thanks for the 5-star review on Cars.com. Kudos, Joe!

"Returning to Joe at Lokey was again a pleasant experience. After finding the vehicle we wanted, we were able to arrange everything ahead of time. After discussing the condition of the vehicle, we were able to negotiate a fair price for both parties. Everything was handled quickly and properly." -ML Buyer

To read more awesome reviews, click here.

Here’s this week’s “Driving Tip”: Turn Your Lights On!

A Canadian study from 1994 found that people who drive with their headlights on during daylight hours have an 11 percent decreased risk of being in an accident with another automobile.

People are saying great things about us on Cars.com. Kudos, team!

"I've been thinking of trading my car in for a new one and I had my eye on a Benz that I saw on Lokey's website...I went in and looked at a few but when I told Alex that I wanted a Mercedes, he went above & out of his way to make sure I knew all my options. He even explained the whole leasing vs buying deal to me which i appreciated. When I finally decided on "the one", he told me everything I needed to know about the car & made me extremely comfortable. Purchasing a new car can be stressful and overwhelming but Alex made it literally the best buying experience I've ever had. Alex is great, knows his stuff and was as honest and comforting as I've seen a salesman. Thanks again Alex!! I'm so happy with my new Mercedes :)" -Shi86

To read more fantastic reviews, click here.

Mercedes-Benz integrates Google Maps features

Mercedes-Benz announced it would demonstrate Google local search, Street View, and traffic integrated into the dashboard of one of its vehicles during Google I/O. These features will be introduced soon as part of Mercedes-Benz's DriveStyle app. 

Local search will let drivers enter any term to begin a search, resulting in a list of nearby place names. Each entry can be selected as a destination for navigation. The Street View feature will let the driver see a 360-degree view of any destination, as long as Google has covered it.

Traffic data is similar to what can be found on Google Maps. Mercedes-Benz did not say whether it would replace or complement the existing traffic data already available on its navigation system.
One intriguing feature called Radar View relies on Google data to find concentrations of bars, restaurants, or clubs in any city. This feature helps drivers quickly find nightlife centers. 

The Google integration relies on Mercedes-Benz's DriveStyle app running on an iPhone and connected to a car using the Mercedes-Benz Drive Kit Plus feature. Once connected, the driver uses the car's Comand (Mercedes-Benz's name for its cabin electronics) interface to control and view the Google content. 

The DriveStyle app currently lets drivers access social media and audio on the iPhone. The new Google Maps features will be categorized under a new Places menu. 

The DriveStyle app currently only works on the iPhone 4/4S. Mercedes-Benz promises a version for the iPhone 5 soon, but offered no information about an Android version. 

Courtesy of: CNET

Our customers are saying wonderful things about us! Way to go, team!

"Car buying is such a stressful experience, and I had a bad experience with the last car dealer I used. I was so relieved when I went to Lokey-Alex was the best!" - Jessica

"Joe helped me when I went for a Smart car on Monday. He was very friendly and personable, did not pressure me at all, and made sure to check with my dad and I frequently." -Monica

"Buying a car and dealing with the car salesmen wheeling and dealing is sometimes not the most fun experience to have. My husband and I were looking for a car and was told to go see A. Elsedoudi. My husband went to Lokey to look for a car but I couldn't leave my office. I told my husband that I couldn't take a lunch to look either because it would've taken so much time." - Nat

To read more reviews, click here.

2014 E-Class Overview -- Mercedes-Benz

People are saying wonderful things about Lokey Motor Company on Cars.com. Kudos, team!

"He was so great and helpful a month and a half later I purchased another car from him. Actually the second car he kept an eye out for me and let me know that it was in he went above and Beyond to help me and make me happy." - Kenneth 

"Alex made my sell so easy. He is very good at what he does, professional, and honest. If you are wanting to buy a car he is definitely the one to buy it from. I will definitely be a repeat customer." -Nover

"I was in town visiting and stopped by the Lokey Mercedes dealership with one of my family members. I was just checking out cars during our wait when I met Sheri Iten, one of their sales reps. She was super knowledgeable and not pushy at all, which was greatly appreciated." - Nicole

To read what others are saying, click here.

Summer Road Trip Tip - Take the scenic route!

Life really is about the journey, so for Pete's sake, have some fun on your trip. If you're particularly confident in your navigator (or navigation system), consider taking the more picturesque side roads instead of broad, mind-numbing interstates that may be packed with big rigs and holiday travelers. Pad your trip with extra time so that you can stop at historical landmarks, soak in the beauty of natural landmarks or enjoy a picnic.

Courtesy of: Edmunds.com

Mercedes-Benz TV: Torie at the Concept GLA premiere in Shanghai

Another highlight from Mercedes-Benz: Unveiling the Concept GLA, the brand demonstrates just how a compact, sporty SUV could look. In Shanghai, Mercedes-Benz Reporter Torie not only attended the premiere but also had a chance to see the vehicle and speak to experts the evening before.

The New 2013MY Mercedes-Benz GLK250 BlueTEC 4MATIC Sport Utility Hits the Road

U.S. journalists are test-driving the very first 2013MY Mercedes-Benz GLK250 BlueTEC 4MATIC sport utility vehicles, arriving in the U.S. by the end of April. The new GLK model represents the first diesel-powered entry in the mid-size SUV market. With segment-leading fuel economy of 24 city/33 highway, the GLK250 BlueTEC 4MATIC is available for retail sale by April 30, with pricing that begins at $38,590 (excluding $905 destination charge).
High-Tech Four Cylinder with Balance Shafts
The 2013MY GLK250 BlueTEC 4MATIC boasts the most powerful four-cylinder diesel engine in the SUV world. Its 2,143 cc direct-injection engine is rated at an even 200 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. The all-aluminum, in-line four-cylinder engine makes use of four valves per cylinder and dual overhead camshafts with vane-type variable valve timing. To smooth out the inherent vibration of an in-line four-cylinder engine, two Lanchester balance shafts spin at twice the crankshaft speed.
BlueTEC Refinements
Fuel pressure for the BlueTEC direct fuel injection system is approximately 29,000 psi (or 2,000 bar) that makes possible even more power and lower exhaust emissions. Higher ignition fuel pressure means the four piezo injectors can be adjusted even more precisely as engine load and speed change. This system places the four-cylinder diesel at the head of the field when it comes to diesel engines for passenger vehicles.
AdBlue Injection
To ensure the GLK250 BlueTEC 4MATIC meets exhaust emission regulations in all 50 states, the BlueTEC system uses AdBlue injection to make the diesel as clean as a state-of-the-art gasoline engine. A water-based urea solution, AdBlue is carried in its own small tank and metered into the exhaust in minute quantities, so the tank only needs to be refilled during routine scheduled maintenance. When AdBlue is injected into pre-cleaned exhaust gas, ammonia (NH3) is released, converting nitrogen oxides into harmless nitrogen (and water) in a downstream catalytic converter. Called SCR, for selective catalytic reduction, this process creates the most effective method of exhaust gas after-treatment currently available.
Two-Stage Turbo System
To ensure responsive power over a broad speed range, the new engine features an innovative two-stage turbocharger system that's comprised of a small high-pressure (HP) turbocharger and a large low-pressure (LP) turbocharger. Unlike a traditional biturbo system, the two turbochargers are connected in series, with the HP unit located directly at the exhaust manifold and the LP unit downstream.
Exhaust gas flow spins the HP turbine at up to 215,000 revolutions per minute, and the turbine housing has a bypass duct that can be opened or closed by a vacuum-operated wastegate. When the bypass is closed, all the exhaust flows through the HP turbine, allowing high boost pressure to be developed, even at low engine speeds. As engine speed increases, the wastegate opens, and exhaust gas begins to bypass the HP turbine and flow directly to the second LP turbine.
Exhaust gas from the HP turbine and its wastegate reconverge downstream to drive the LP turbine at up to 185,000 revolutions per minute. At intermediate engine speeds, the wastegate is opened wide enough so that the HP turbine ceases to perform any appreciable work. This allows full exhaust gas energy to flow through the downstream LP turbine, which then does all the work.

Courtesy of: Mercedes-Benz Blogspot

Monday Driving Tip!

Make time good instead of making good time. If it takes 25 minutes to get to work, why leave yourself only 15? Leave earlier and don't play beat the clock. If driving makes you impatient, play music or listen to a book on tape to pass the time.

Courtesy of: Smartmotorist.com

We have a new 5-star review on Yelp. Kudos, team!

"See Alan in service dept.
Best ever! Really goes the extra mile for me every time." -Cathy B.

To see more wonderful reviews, click here.

The reimagined E-Class is here

With its long history as the standard-bearer for innovative luxury, any new iteration of the E-Class has some big shoes to fill: its own. But with sharper lines, a new cabin and technology that redefines what automobiles are capable of, the reimagined 2014 E-Class fills those shoes—and then some.

Mercedes becomes global Masters sponsor

Mercedes-Benz has upgraded its corporate involvement at the Masters by becoming one of three global sponsors, allowing the German-based automaker to air television ads during the limited commercial space in domestic telecasts.

Augusta National chairman Billy Payne said Tuesday that Mercedes-Benz will join AT&T and IBM as the tournament's three main sponsors.

Mercedes replaces ExxonMobil, which had been a global sponsor since 2005.

The Masters kept its total sponsorship to five companies - three global sponsors and two international partners. Mercedes had been a partner since 2008 until elevating its sponsorship status. Payne said UPS has signed on as the other partner, joining Rolex.

''The Masters is the most prestigious golf tournament in the world. It is a great honor for Mercedes-Benz to now be associated with the Masters Tournament as one of the three global sponsors,'' said Joachim Schmidt, the company's executive vice president of sales and marketing.
Terms of the agreements were not disclosed.

Unlike other tournaments, sponsors of the Masters do not use logos anywhere on the golf course. Some of the client entertainment takes place in permanent chalets tucked well behind the trees left of the 10th fairway.

The Masters went two years without corporate sponsors during the initial dispute in 2003 over all-male membership. The tournament was commercial-free for two years, with the club picking up the tab for the broadcast fees.

Sponsorship returned in 2005 with AT&T, IBM and ExxonMobil as the main three. The Masters only has four minutes of commercials for every hour.

Last fall, Augusta National accepted its first two female members, former Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice and South Carolina financier Darla Moore. Both were at the Masters this month in their green jackets.

''The relationships we form are important to our commitment of continuous improvement, and we sincerely appreciate the longtime assistance and enthusiasm of ExxonMobil for their support,'' Payne said. ''We now look forward to growing our associations with Mercedes-Benz and UPS, two globally recognized brands that also share a passion for the Masters and the tournament's sustained success.''
ExxonMobil did not say why its sponsorship of the Masters ended.

''ExxonMobil has concluded its advertising sponsorship of the Masters tournament after nine successful years,'' spokesman Alan Jeffers said in an email. ''ExxonMobil continually evaluates and modifies our sponsorship and advertising requirements based on business needs.''

Mercedes-Benz has been active in sports sponsorship since the 1980s. It shifted its marketing strategy in recent years, ending its title sponsorship of the season opener in Kapalua and signing deals to become the official car of the PGA Championship and to become an international partner with the Masters.

Adam Scott became the first Australian to win the Masters this year. He already had a sponsorship deal with Mercedes.

Courtesy of: Yahoo! News 

The Green Jacket for Adam Scott! Way to go!

Mercedes-Benz congratulates the brand ambassador and remains true to its motto: the best or nothing!

Pre-owned car of the day - 2012 Mercedes-Benz E-Class E350 Coupe

Come to Lokey Motor Company for a test drive today and discover the beautiful 2012 Mercedes-Benz E-Class E350 Coupe! Click here for details.

Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Wins Vincentric 2013 "Best Fleet Value in America" Award

Mercedes-Benz Sprinter won the "2013 Best Fleet Value in America" award from Vincentric for the second year in a row for three of its most successful models.  To determine the 2013 Vincentric Best Fleet Value in America awards, Vincentric analyzed over 3,400 vehicle configurations in 20 different lifecycle cost scenarios, using 8 cost factors including depreciation, fees, and taxes, financing, fuel, insurance, maintenance, opportunity cost, and repairs.  The lifecycle costs were measured in all 50 states plus DC, with over 25,000,000 lifecycle cost measurements being used to determine the winning vehicles.

"Winning the Vincentric Best Fleet Value in America award for the second time in a row for our 3/4 Ton Passenger Van, 3/4 Ton Full Size Cargo Van, and 1 Ton Full Size Cargo Van is confirmation that owning a Mercedes-Benz Sprinter will provide the most compelling real-world cost of ownership to our valued customers," said Claus Tritt, General Manager of Commercial Vans for Mercedes-Benz USA.  "Our growing dealer network, known for providing world-class levels of customer service, also play a significant role in treating our commercial customers fairly and respecting their busy professional schedules during all hours of the day or night."
"Our awards look to provide guidance to all types of fleet buyers, and the fact that we have winners from a variety of manufacturers illustrates the growing competition in the fleet market," stated David Wurster, President of Vincentric.  "By segmenting the awards and analyzing different mileage/lifecycle timeframe scenarios, vehicle buyers have guidance for determining the fleet vehicle that best meets the needs of their organization."

Courtesy of: Mercedes-Benz Newsroom