Checkered Blog by Checkered Flag is the automotive play place in Hampton Roads Virginia

An A+ Addition at Audi

Popular Mechanics reports that the luxury crossover segment has grown 3-fold in the last five years!  Audi is now throwing their hat into the ring with the new 2009 Q5, a mini-me version of the elder Q7.  Unveiled prior to the Beijing Motor Show last month, the Q5 will compete with the BMW X3, the Lexus RX 300, the upcoming Volvo XC60 plus the Mercedes-Benz GLK.  PM also reports that the Q5 will be powered by a 265-hp 3.2 liter V-6 engine with 243 lb.-ft. of torque.  It will feature Audi's lauded Tiptronic transmission as well as Quattro AWD.

Up to Speed, an LA times Automotive blog, reports that the new Q5 will come "tingling with high tech."  Expect options to include thermal heated and cooled cup holders, a Bang & Olufsen sound system, and third-generation Multi-Media Interface.  The 2009 Audi Q5 is expected to go on sale early next year and cost upwards of $40K.  When we know more, we'll pass it on, but for now, we found a video showcasing the Q5's agility. 

Online Videos by Veoh.com

A Really Cool Birthday Present

Happy birthday, Checkered Blog!  This week marks one year since FlagRaiser, Win'sGal, and I, your trusty CheckeredChick, began our online musings and observations on what FlagRaiser likes to call "the automotive play place in Hampton Roads, Virginia."  And the Checkered Blog has received one amazing birthday present:  Auto Dealer Monthly magazine has ranked Checkered Flag's website at the top of its annual listing of excellent auto retailer sites.  A panel of eight judges examined all aspects of Checkeredflag.com and singled out its "personality" and "unique" nature.  Judging by the other auto dealer web sites on the magazine's "Top 10" list, the competition was stiff, so we are all very excited about this. Thanks to all who have suggested topics for this blog, submitted comments, and sent e-mails ... and please keep your ideas and posts coming!

smart Smorgasbord

I stopped by smart center Virginia Beach yesterday to get a closer look at its service department, since I had yet to venture back there and had been wondering if it was any different from a "normal" service department.  It turns out that, much like the smart car itself, the service department is not that different, just shorter.  A lot shorter!

In other smart center VB news, Drew Spade has come down from Checkered Flag Hyundai/VW to be the newest smart Brand Specialist.  He told me that he has wanted to come to smart since attending the smart road show that was held last August.  Congratulations, Drew!

Also, Linda Dales is now working service prep at smart, making sure all the vehicles are in tip-top shape before delivery.

The last bit of local smart news I received was that the wait list for smarts still exists and demand is still high.  The good news is that, beginning this Friday, smart center VB, in order to better serve those customers that do not wish to wait, will begin selling a carefully chosen selection of pre-owned vehicles as well. Expect small, fuel efficient models from VW and Toyota.

And finally, we promised that when the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety released their crash tests for the smart Fortwo (the smallest vehicle they have ever tested), we would share them with you.  The IIHS gave smart the top rating of "good" for front and side crash protection.  Its seat and head restraints earned the second-best rating of "acceptable" for whiplash protection in rear impacts.  Institute president Adrian Lund stated, "All things being equal in safety, bigger and heavier is always better.  But among the smallest cars, the engineers of the smart did their homework and designed a high level of safety into a very small package."  Click here to read more.

VW Tiguan has arrived!

Look who decided to make a home at Checkered Flag Volkswagen:  the all new Tiguan!

This is the latest SUV in VW's lineup and is perfect for the city commute with occasional get-away's.  Let's call it an SUV for the daily commute that can get you anywhere else too.

Here are a few things Edmunds has to say about it:

Little brother to the Touareg, the new five-seater is aiming to lock horns with popular compact sport-utilities like the Acura RDX and Honda CR-V, while providing buyers with an affordable alternative to more prestigious entries such as the BMW X3 and the upcoming Mercedes-Benz GLK.

Styled under the leadership of Murat Gunak, Volkswagen's former design boss, the Tiguan boasts a number of cues first established on the Concept A, including its bold chrome grille and swoopy headlamp treatment. But while the Concept A received a rather sporting, coupelike silhouette with a roof line that plunged to the rear, the production version of Volkswagen's new SUV is far more upright toward the rear in a move clearly aimed at providing it with greater practicality.

Volkswagen will offer the Tiguan from the outset of sales with three different gasoline engines. For European markets, there will be updated 150-bhp and 170-bhp (DIN) versions of its award-winning 1.4-liter four-cylinder Twincharger engine, with its combination of supercharging and turbocharging. North America will get the 200-hp (SAE) turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine from the VW GTI.

Also planned to make its way into the Tiguan is the German carmaker's yet-to-be-revealed 2.0-liter four-cylinder common-rail diesel. It will feature low-emissions Bluetec technology when it comes to the U.S.

The standard gearbox is a six-speed manual, although North American buyers will also be able to option the Tiguan initially with a six-speed automatic and, later on, a VW dual-shift gearbox (DSG) offering both manual and automatic modes. Two versions of the DSG are planned: a new seven-speed in combination with the Twincharger engines and an updated version of today's six-speed with the turbo 2.0-liter four.

Channeling drive to all four wheels is a multiplate Haldex center differential, essentially the same VW 4Motion hardware found in the new VW R32. The European-market version of the Tiguan will also be equipped with an electronically controlled differential, plus altered throttle mapping, hill-descent control and an automatic hill holder. In addition, the ABS antilock braking system will change its threshold of intervention to accommodate off-road driving.

Although the Tiguan relies on the same basic mechanical setup as the Golf, with a transversely mounted engine, it has a unique 102.5-inch wheelbase and slightly wider 61.8-inch track front and rear. Other significant changes concern the steering, which features a new speed-sensitive electrohydraulic setup that is claimed to provide greater feel than the Golf's ZF system while filtering out steering kickback from off-road impacts.

For more, click here.

A Meeting of Minds

Hyundai recently announced that it was teaming up with tech behemoth Microsoft to set up an Automotive IT Innovation Center.  PCMag.com reports that the technology will start being incorporated into Hyundai vehicles in 2010 and resemble the Sync system that Microsoft developed for Ford.  Microsoft has also created a similar system in Europe for Fiat (Blue and Me).  Along with voice control and mp3 friendly jacks, navigation and entertainment related features will also be on the agenda.  Software downloads will be available and users can DIY with a USB plug or take it to their local dealer.  The Checkered Blog will keep you updated.

Meet CF Toyota Customer Rex Pimentel

Where do you live? In Virginia Beach.

What kind of vehicle do you drive? I have a 2004 Toyota 4Runner.  It's gold.

What do you like about it?  When I drive it, I feel secure.  I drove a Camry before and traded it in for the 4Runner when it reached 20,000 miles.  We got that Camry at Checkered Flag, too, and another Camry, also.

What do you do? I work for M & G Electronics.  I am an assembler.

How long have you lived in Virginia Beach?  Since 2000.  I moved here from the Philippines when I married my husband.  I grew up in the Philippines.  You know, even in the Philippines, I loved Toyotas, and I worked in Japan for a while and I drove one there.  Toyotas are easy to drive, parts are easily available ... I feel comfortable with them.

Do you have children? Yes, a daughter who lives here and two sons, who live in the Philippines. They are all grown.

Do you have pets? Yes, two cockatiels, named Bruno and Bubba, and two parakeets, named Michiko and Giant.

What is your favorite restaurant?  I love Japanese food and so I like local Japanese restaurants.  And I would like to go to Ruth's Chris; I haven't been there yet.

What are your hobbies?  Bible study.  And I love to travel.

What do you like about Checkered Flag? It's priced reasonably and I know in my heart that I can trust them.

How Honda Rocks the Environmentalism Movement

Honda just launched a new website highlighting their commitment to the environment.  In honor of this recent development, here are a few things that you may not have known about Honda's history of going green.

The 1975 Civic CVCC was the first vehicle to pass the emissions requirement of the landmark Clean Air Act without using a catalytic converter.

Honda has trademarked its Drive-by-Wire throttle system.  Essentially, high-tech electronics take the place of a physical throttle cable to ensure faster response rates and higher fuel economy.

Honda was the first manufacturer to offer Ultra-Low-Emission Vehicles-rated emission technology (ULEV in tech parlance) on a production vehicle.  Additionally, the 2008 Accord is the first vehicle where both the 4-cylinder model and the V-6 meet the new Partial-Zero-Emission Vehicle (PZEV) standards, which are even more strict.

The FCX Clarity, which we have blogged on before, and which Business Week's Car Connection calls "a  futuristic jellybean," is a ZERO-EMISSION hydrogen fuel-cell vehicle.  It will be available for lease to certain Southern California customers this summer.  The general public will have to wait for hydrogen filling stations to develop in their area before getting a chance to lease the FCX.

Finally, click here to meet ASIMO.  He is a robot and not green, per se, but so incredibly cool that you just know that the company behind its creation is capable of amazing things.  Built by Honda scientists and engineers, ASIMO uses such advance technology, he will be conducting the introduction of a special performance of the Detroit Symphony Orchestra next week.

Two Great Videos Showcase Jaguar XF

Online Videos by Veoh.com

Online Videos by Veoh.com

MINI Takes the States Version 2.0

Back in 2006, MINI USA engineered a whopping cross-country road trip for thousands of MINI enthusiasts, aptly named MINI Takes the States. This year, they asked MINI owners if they were game again and of course, they were, but rather than drive cross-country they elected to throw four blowout parties in major cities across America. Miami, Boston, Chicago and Los Angeles will all be hosting MINI Takes the States 2008 on various weekends throughout the summer. These weekends will be chock-full of all things MINI, but also concerts, go-kart racing, drive-in movies and much more. Online registration is $20. From what we hear, participants are caravanning from Miami to Boston, with a stop in Va Beach on the itinerary. If you think you might be interested in participating, visit the website for more information about dates and to see the detailed route.

Checkered Blog Captures More Kudos

Forgive my self-congratulatory tone, please.  It is Monday. I needed a bit of a pick-me-up this morning and I got it when news came that The Checkered Blog had picked up another trophy, this time a prestigious Gold Award from the Hermes Creative Awards, an international competition that honors creativity in traditional and new media.  Thanks to everyone who gave us feedback and suggestions for making the blog even better.  Keep it coming!

Checkered Flag VW Hosts May Friday Night Get-Together Tonight

Checkered Flag Volkswagen, never afraid to try something new, is inviting all Hampton Roads VW enthusiasts to get-together at their place on the first Friday of every month!  Bud Klemp, parts manager at Checkered Flag VW, borrowed the neighborly idea from a Las Vegas VW dealer.  "It's an opportunity for local VW enthusiasts to get together, show-off their cars, look at other people's cars and not get hassled for hanging around or loitering."  April was the inaugural month and 46 vehicles showed up! They expect an even bigger turnout tonight.

The get-togethers run from 6:00p.m. to 8:00p.m. and are very low-key.  Bud tells me, "there is no pressure or anything, we are just doing this to help build a community."  There are several local VW enthusiast clubs and Bud admits that he is excited at the prospect that the Friday night get-togethers might unify them, if only temporarily.  "Tonight we'll have people here from all over Hampton Roads-Williamsburg, Hampton, Suffolk, just from all over."

If you have questions or want more information before you stop by, call Checkered Flag Volkswagen at (757) 490-1111.

IIHS 2008 Top Safety Picks

People love lists, or at least that is what I am told.  I like lists because they present us with choice, which is usually a good thing, but not an infinite or unmanageable number of choices which can be overwhelming.  Lists organize the chaotic plethora of options that we consumers have today.

Each year, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety recognizes certain vehicles as TOP SAFETY PICKs and puts out, you guessed it, a list.  To achieve recognition as a TOP SAFETY PICK, vehicles must score good ratings in all three Institute tests (40 mph frontal offset, side impact and rear crash protection/head restraint tests) and offer electronic stability control.  Checkered Flag carries the following 2008 TOP SAFETY PICK award winners...

• Audi A6, Audi A3 and Audi A4
• BMW X3 and BMW X5
• Honda Accord (4-door), Honda Odyssey, Honda Pilot, Honda CR-V and Honda Element
• Hyundai Entourage, Hyundai Sante Fe and Hyundai Veracruz
• Toyota Highlander and Toyota Tundra

Checkered Flag's Virtual Expansion

Anyone familiar with the Checkered Blog knows that Checkered Flag has put a lot of emphasis on their Internet sales department and the Internet team, in turn, has done an awesome job!  I recently blogged about the rapid increase in Internet vehicle sales at Checkered Flag and throughout the country.  Since shopping online allows customers both greater vehicle choice and the convenience of doing business from home, many are taking advantage of our Internet sales department to find the car that they want at the price that they want to pay.

One such customer is Vince Vlassicky who came all the way to Checkered Flag from Hobe Sound, FL to buy a Toyota 4-Runner!  Vince wasn't a complete stranger to Checkered Flag, he bought a vehicle here in 1999, but when he couldn't find what he was looking for close to home, his (very wise) wife suggested that he revisit Checkered Flag.  "We had a good experience here before so I thought, why not?" Vince says. Ryan Montville of Checkered Flag's Internet department assisted him with finding the 4x4 that he was looking for.  "The main reason I came all the way to Checkered Flag was because they had exactly the vehicle I wanted.  We took care of all the pricing on the phone.  I told them I didn't want any surprises when I got here!" 

Lawrence Doligosa (pictured right) from Checkered Flag Toyota picked his customer up at the airport and facilitated delivery of the vehicle. He is certain that Vince is now his "favorite customer in Florida!" As for Vince, he's happily making the 900-mile drive back to Hobe Sound in his brand new ride.

How to Help Your Neighbors

The Checkered Blog sends our thoughts and prayers to those affected by yesterday's tornadoes.  For anyone looking to help out, The Virginian-Pilot recently published the following list of relief organizations that are accepting donations to assist Virginia tornado victims.

United Way of Central Virginia www.unitedwaycv.org

United Way of the Virginia Peninsula www.uwvp.org

American Red Cross www.redcross.org – Suffolk, Southeast, Petersburg and Greater Richmond Chapters

Salvation Army www.salvationarmy.org

Federation of Virginia Food Banks www.foodbankonline.org

Catholic Charities of Eastern Virginia www.cceva.org

Lutheran Disaster Response & Lutheran Family Services of Virginia www.ldr.org

Southern Baptist Conservatives of Virginia www.sbcv.org

Virginia Baptist Mission Board www.vbmb.org

Presbyterian Disaster Assistance www.pcusa.org

Virginia United Methodist Church Conference Disaster Response www.vaumc.org

Adventist Community Services www.communityservices.org

Virginia Beach Society for the Preventions of Cruelty to Animals www.vbspca.com

The Humane Society of the United States www.hsus.org/disaster

Suffolk Foundation. Contributions should be made payable to “Suffolk Foundation" and marked “Tornado Relief Fund.” Mail or deliver to 1426 Holland Road, Suffolk, VA 23434. These gifts will be dispersed by the Suffolk Foundation to 501(c)(3) charities and government agencies qualified to meet the specific needs of individuals requiring financial support. For more information, call (757)923-9090.

Details on 2009 Porsche 911 Leaked

There are intelligence wars that are constantly being fought in the car industry.  Leaks, attributions to "anonymous sources" and, yes, spying are practically as common in the modern vehicle manufacturing world as they were between the two great powers during the Cold War.  If you don't believe me, check out this story regarding Porsche's CEO finding a "bug" in his hotel room the day before an important board meeting.  While that is creepy, and illegal, there are other times when the fruits of espionage are far more rewarding. 

Details on the new 2009 Porsche 911 recently found their way to the world wide web.  Here's what we "know":  The new 911 will feature direct fuel-injection resulting in a healthy increase in horsepower (+20 h.p. for 3.6-liter engine).  Additionally, the '09 911 will include Porsche's PDK, a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission.  A new touch screen "Communication Management" system will also be available.  Outside, we will see more subtle changes, including slightly tweaked front and rear bumpers, larger headlamps and mirrors and stainless steel exhaust tips.

While it is still very cloak-and-dagger, the leak will more than likely ensure that details on the official release will come sooner than previously thought.  The 2009 Porsche 911 is expected to be on sale mid-fall.

The new 2008 BMW X6 has arrived at Checkered Flag!

Say hello to the latest edition to the BMW lineup:  the 2008 BMW X6 xDrive35i is here.  Sporting 300 horsepower from a twin-turbo direct injection inline 6-cylinder motor along with xDrive All Wheel Drive in a coupe/SUV's clothing makes this more than meets the eye!

Just don't call it a cross over - the X6 ranks amongst the X5 and X3 as the latest class of BMW SAV's (Sport Activity Vehicle).

Click any of these photos to see a larger image.

Want to see more?  Take a look at the HTML site for the X6 or check out the Flash page with all the fun stuff.

"The X6's handling sets new standards for a car this size. Perhaps more important is that it's an entertaining car from behind the steering wheel."

"We wouldn't be surprised to see the X6 shoot straight to the top of its class in dynamic prowess."

"Rest assured, though, if you've placed an order on one in the hope of taking delivery of the finest-handling SUV on the market, you're not likely to be disappointed."

From AutoWeek | January 2008

2009 Hyundai Sonata Now Available at Checkered Flag

Online Videos by Veoh.com

Here is the take from Car and Driver on the redesigned 2009 Hyundai Sonata, Hyundai's best-selling vehicle.  I just spoke with Thom Coyle, Sales Manager at Checkered Flag Hyundai, and he told me they have a great selection currently on the lot.  I asked him which aspect of the new Sonata people were really responding to and he told me that the new "center stack", where the audio and climate controls are located, has customers pretty psyched.  This is the also the first year a navigation system has been available and it is one that you will not find in any other make because it was made especially for Hyundai by LG.  Checkered Flag Hyundai is also offering $1000 factory rebate on the new Sonata and "valued owners" (those who currently drive a Hyundai) can receive an extra $500 rebate.  Give them a call at (757) 490-1111 if you have questions or stop by 3033 Virginia Beach Blvd. to have a look for yourself.   

Meet Checkered Flag's Charles Russell

There are plenty of folks at Checkered Flag whose work, almost entirely "behind the scenes," helps make the business as successful as it is.  One of those "unsung heroes" is Charles Russell, our maintenance director.  Charles manages a staff of 20+ and oversees the housekeeping, maintenance and landscape operations at Checkered Flag, including those relationships with contractors and outside vendors that pertain to maintenance operations. The Checkered Blog recently caught up with him and cajoled him into answering a few questions...

CB:  How long have you worked at Checkered Flag?

CR:  10 years as of June 1st.

CB:  Congratulations!  How long have you lived in Hampton Roads?

CR:  Over 40 years

CB:  Where do you currently live?

CR:  Chesapeake

CB:  What are your hobbies?

CR:  Racing, fishing and having fun in the sun!

CB:  What's your favorite restaurant?

CR:  Pirate's Cove

CB:  What's in your CD player right now?

CR:  Classic rock or country

CB:  What's one thing people would be surprised to know about you?

CR:  I am very artistic.  And I have a lot of celebrity friends.

CB:  Oohhh....intrigue.  What's the one invention you couldn't live without?

CR:  Hairdryer.

CB:  That would explain the celebrity friends.  LOL.

CB:  What's the best thing about working for Checkered Flag?

CR:  The management and the fact that it's where winners work.

Special Edition 2008 Scion tC RS 4.0 On Its Way To Checkered Flag

Have I got a scoop for you!  In the next few days, Checkered Flag Toyota-Scion will be receiving two of the limited edition tC in a special "Galactic Grey Mica" color.  Scion is only selling 2300 of them.  What makes this release different from any other tC is the special body kit (see great pictures here from the Chicago Auto Show where it was unveiled earlier this year), two-tone seats, a leather wrapped steering wheel, upgraded audio system and unique badging that prominently features the limited edition number. If you want more information, please call Checkered Flag Toyota-Scion at (757) 490-1111.

Good News on Earth Day

The government announced today that it would seek better fuel economy standards on new cars and trucks and do so in a time frame shorter than previously proposed.  We told you about the energy law that requires manufacturers to achieve a fleet-wide average of 35 mpg by 2020.  Today's proposal ups the ante by setting a minimum average mpg of 31.6 by 2015.

The new standards will lower emissions, cut fuel consumption and save you money on gas!  Happy Earth Day.  We at the Checkered Blog like to think of every day as Earth Day and ask that you stay tuned because periodically, we will be bringing you more information on Checkered Flag's selection of "green" cars and other environmental sustainability efforts.

Checkered Flag salutes Dealer.com

We want to pass a big THANK YOU to all the people at Dealer.com who have been helping us to bring the all new Checkered Flag.com to life!  It has been quite the task, beginning in September of 2007 when Alex Snyder, our Director of eCommerce, visited the folks at Dealer.com in their Vermont headquarters.

"I wanted to make the new Checkered Flag.com something people have never seen from their automotive dealers before.  I wanted it to cater to what our customers wanted, while providing that little extra to make someone say "wow".  During my visit with the Dealer.com staff, I realized we were going to be able to do just that!"  -Alex Snyder

Dealer.com has been hosting the Checkered Flag.com website since April of 2006.  The relationship has been awesome!  This hybrid site you're seeing now (hybrid as in a mating of things that don't usually go together - not the cars) has been a long collaboration of idea sharing. 

We would like to thank Mark Bonfigli, Rick Gibbs, Ryan Dunn, Andy Cole, Justin Heininger, Lee Allen, Scott Gale, Steve Waud, Kenneth Botka, Ishmael Ahmed, Tamar Bouchard, Timothy Burgher, Drew Chalke, and the rest of the teams who have helped make Checkered Flag.com what it is!  A special thanks goes out to Brian Valentine for being in the trenches with us every day - none of this could have happened without your help!

Dealer.com and Checkered Flag will continue to improve our Checkered Flag websites, on a daily basis to better serve you.  Keep tuning-in for bigger and better.....videos will be here soon!

Checkered Flag Among Top 20 Internet Dealers in the U.S.A.

The 8^th annual Ward’s e-100 issue is out this month and the Checkered Blog is pleased to announce that Checkered Flag was recognized as #14 on the list of the top 100 Internet dealers in the country. That is saying something since the independent ranking only began in 2001 and just over 60,000 vehicles were sold on-line in the U.S. that year. In 2007, that number topped 175,000! Congratulations to Checkered Flag’s e-commerce team!

Make a Pit Stop at Checkered Flag VW This Weekend

Just in case you missed my post last Friday, here is a reminder...Checkered Flag VW is throwing a party of sorts this weekend.  You can "Buy A Car From A Checkered Flag Star" if you drop in, beginning today and running through Sunday.  If you take a V-Dub for a test drive, you will also be entered to win some sweet prizes, including tickets to a NASCAR race or a Volkswagen TDI Cup Race.  If you have questions, or need more info, contact Checkered Flag Volkswagen at (757) 490-1111!

Virginia International Tattoo This Weekend at Scope

It's Friday.  The weather is cooperating nicely.  Good weekend to go out and see what is happening in Hampton Roads.  The Virginia International Tattoo  roars into town this weekend at Scope Arena in Norfolk and more than 850 performances will take place. Click here for information on schedules, ticket prices and more!

BMW-MINI Service Department Expansion Humming Right Along

I continue to be awed by the rapid pace of the $4 million expansion project for the service department at Checkered Flag BMW-MINI. These photos show you just how huge the service facility will be when the work is done, and that is the point of it all...its capacity is being more than doubled because, for quite a while now, it has been operating over capacity. Architect Jerry Smith with Lyall Design, which is working on the expansion, says much of the electrical and plumbing infrastructure has now been put in and work crews are starting to put the windows in place. Despite the complexity of the project, it remains on schedule for completion by late summer or early fall of this year.

Everyone at Checkered Flag BMW-MINI is just...ready. Steven Hueur Sr., who has long worked in the Checkered Flag BMW-MINI parts department, tells me that the additional space will really help to streamline their operations. "We will have more room to store and access parts, more staff to assist customers, more retail space for BMW, more of everything. Our operations will be more efficient because of the additional space and the technology that is being incorporated. We are very excited for it to open and we know our customers are too!"

Make It A Combo

Am I the only one that is completely antsy for warmer weather?  I know, it is really nice outside, but I am just asking for another 10 degrees. And maybe a bit less wind. Antsy is the theme of the day, I guess, because I have also desperately been trying to get a firm date for delivery of the new Toyota Venza.  The Toyota what, you ask?  V-E-N-Z-A.  It is being billed as a "crossover sedan", a sort of cross between a Camry-Avalon-Highlander.  This terminology makes sense when you look at it from the front (see photo at left). The Venza is being built at the same Kentucky plant as the Camry and Avalon. Pricing for it is not yet available but it is expected at Checkered Flag in the last quarter of 2008.  I included some on-the-fly snapshots that FlagRaiser took earlier this year, when it was unveiled at the auto show.  And, here is a link to Toyota's mini-site, where you can get a good look at the inside, read up on all the specs and even opt to receive e-email updates.  We will, of course, keep you posted on the Checkered Flag side of things!

Honda Hoping For a Smooth Landing With Redesigned 2009 Pilot

I stopped by Checkered Flag Honda today, overly anxious to hear about the all new redesigned 2009 Honda Pilot.  It's the second generation of the wildly popular 8-passenger crossover SUV, meaning that Honda has taken all the "I like my car but wish it had (fill in blank here)" feedback from customers and incorporated it into the new model-year.  I was only slightly disappointed to learn that the Checkered Flag Honda representatives were going to see the vehicle up close and personal, but not for a couple of weeks.  Checkered Flag is however getting ready to put their order in for the first shipment, which should hit the dealership in early-to-mid June.

The skinny on the new Pilot is this...slightly bigger on the outside (3 inches added to the length and the wheelbase, 1 inch wider and 1 inch taller) and significantly bigger on the inside (over 4 cubic feet more room!).  It will also be available for the first time in 4 trim levels; the basic LX, the better-than-basic EX, the better-than-basic + lots of leather EX-L, and the posh Touring model.  Thankfully, Honda decided to simplify things and put the 3.5L SOHC i-VTECH V-6 that was introduced on the new Accord into all new Pilots while at the same time managing to lower EPA estimates to 17/23 (FWD).  I also hear that the inside is much improved, even on the basic models, with tons of storage and the shifter finally off the dash (pet peeve of mine dating back to hideous 1970s station wagons).  The high-end Touring model is available with Bluetooth, hands-free navigation, iPod adapters, and  an entertainment system.

As I said, Checkered Flag is ordering the first 2009 Pilots this week and anticipates their arrival in June.  If you have questions, or would like additional information, please call Checkered Flag Honda at (757) 490-1111.

Hyundai Has a Star on Their Hands

For those of you who share a predilection for movies where the stars are all muscle (wink, wink), know that shooting has commenced on The Fast and the Furious 4, due in theaters next summer. One of the bloggers at the excellent Car Domain snapped these "spy" pics. The LA Times is also reporting that the much-hyped Hyundai Genesis Coupe will have a starring role in the film, marking its introduction to mainstream America. Will you go see it?

Audi A5: Habitual Car-Buyer's Nightmare

Hello,

I am the Checkered Blog's "Flag Raiser" and I am a habitual car buyer.  To make matters worse, I work for Checkered Flag and am surrounded by some of the coolest cars on earth.  This year has been extremely tough on us habitual car buyers because there is so much great stuff on the lots.  I have done a fantastic job of avoiding them all....till now.   

Yesterday I had to help a fellow colleague at our Audi store.  I ended up parking next to the white A5 demo we have, but walked away from it as fast as I could (remember - I have a car buying problem).  Once in my colleague's office, that damn A5 kept staring at me.  It kept saying "drive me" and I could have sworn it winked some LED's at me.   As luck would have it, the keys were sitting on my colleague's desk.  My self control melted and 5 miles later I was picking out colors and options.

Now that you know how I got here, let me tell you a little about those 5 miles.  In my opinion Audi's have been slightly softer in the suspension area when comparing them to some of their other German friends in the Checkered Flag lineup.  I have always been one who values cornering over straight-line driving, so I was concerned the A5 was going to be more of the same.  It wasn't!  It was crisp and grippy.  The extra width paired with Quattro is a big bonus!  It is comfortable when cruising too - I could easily imagine 500 mile drives being a joy in the A5.  Steering was precise and the Servotronic speed-sensitive steering was barely noticeable - unlike some other cars adaptive steering systems.  The Servotronic was slightly lagging when changing lanes on the interstate, but not enough to spark concern.

The A5 does not come with DSG, but the new Tiptronic transmission certainly didn't slow it down.  In fact, I think I prefer it to a clutch-less manual.   Power is certainly adequate from the 3.2L FSI motor, and I would call it fuel-economical for a luxury car.  Because I am so impressed with the 3.2 V6, I wonder about the 4.2 V8 in the Audi S5 - I'd like to take one to VIR!

Interior space is just right for a coupe.  The back seats obviously don't have tons of legroom, but I could certainly handle riding in the back around town.  The trunk is perfect for a daily driver and a long trip.  I have been a huge fan of Audi's MMI coupled with Nav, Sirius, and an iPod - it all works well and makes sense.  It is a little easier to get used to MMI than some other systems.  The seats are extremely comfortable and infinitely adjustable.

Audi continues to be a stunning car that doesn't scream "look at me" - it is kind of a sleeper.  On first glance the A5 looks like any other subtle Audi design, but then you notice the headlights, the curvy line, the large moonroof, the wheels, and then realize it is an Audi Coupe!  The A5 is knocking on my garage door very hard, and I think I'm going to let it in!

Buy a Car From a Checkered Flag Star Next Weekend at Checkered Flag VW

I’m a planner so I wanted to tell you now about something really fun that’s happening next weekend at Checkered Flag VW so that you can make plans to stop by. As I’ve told you before, the staff over there have hosted some raucous events where they have dressed as rock stars and athletes. Next weekend though, they are going all out as "Checkered Flag" stars, and will be incognito as their favorite auto racing legends (or, perhaps, their pit crew? Nothing would surprise me).

The festivities begin Friday, April 18^th and run through Sunday, April 20^th. Anyone who stops by and test drives a vehicle these days will be entered to win tickets to both an upcoming NASCAR race in Richmond and the Jetta TDI Cup Race, taking place later this month in Alton, VA. Here’s what VW says about the "revolutionary" TDI Cup...

"Making its debut on American shores this summer, the Volkswagen Jetta TDI Cup series is an innovative approach to motorsports. The Jetta TDI Cup is composed of 30 factory-prepared and managed 2008 clean-diesel Jetta TDIs, piloted by talented drivers aged 16 to 26, who are relative unknowns in the industry. Volkswagen’s goal is to find the driver with the most talent and help them break into the world of professional motorsports."

There will be a raffle for the prizes and the winners will be announced the following week.

A couple of the TDI Cup cars will also be on display over the weekend. The vehicles are powered by a 2.0-liter, 4-cylinder TDI, clean diesel engine. Of course, they have also been modified for racing with race-ready suspension and brakes as well as a 6-speed double clutch automatic DSG transmission.

Additionally, VW is hooking us up by bringing down the Toureg that set a world record last July at Pike’s Peak. Check out the video (and others from Volkswagen Motorsport) here.

If arcade racing is more your speed, don’t feel bad, there is something for you next weekend, too. There will be a Gamer Bus on hand the afternoon of the 19^th with 12+ stations that you can race other gamers on.

It’s going to be a great weekend. Stop by 3025 Virginia Beach Blvd. April 18-20 and check it out! If you have questions, call Checkered Flag VW at (757) 490-1111.

Meet Two "New" Members of Management at Checkered Flag Porsche and Audi

I say "new" because both new car manager Ed Klima and pre-owned manager Joe Hernandez, have actually been around Checkered Flag for many years.

Ed has long been the go-to guy at Checkered Flag Porsche. In fact, pretty much everyone that I talked to about his promotion simply said, "It’s about time!" Ed laughs, "It is nice to have it be official." Ed has been at Checkered Flag for over 7 years and working with Porsche customers for almost as long. He told me that he was really excited about the improved inventory conditions at Porsche, which will ensure more vehicles are available to customers who want them, as well as the renaissance of the Audi brand, "Audi has always been a great German-engineered car, but people are realizing more and more that it’s also very accessible. There really is something for everyone."

Joe Hernandez recently returned to Checkered Flag after having spent some time out of the car industry. With the exception of the last few years though, Joe has worked in the auto biz pretty much his whole career (since the mid-80s!). He moved to Hampton Roads about 14 years ago from northern Virginia and was quickly offered a position at Checkered Flag Toyota. He eventually moved on to Checkered Flag Porsche. When I asked him what made him come back he explains, "They say it [selling vehicles] gets in your blood and you can’t get rid of it and they’re right. I enjoy the instant gratification and being able to help customers get what they want, when they want it." Joe is married and has three children, including a son who recently graduated from Virginia Tech, another son in college at JMU and a 4 year old daughter.

The Checkered Blog would like to congratulate both Ed and Joe on their new positions and wish them the very best luck!

Checkered Flag.com under Renovation

The all new Checkered Flag.com was launched on April 8th, 2008 and is much more sophisticated than the last site.  We apologize for any issues you may have while viewing the site - WE ARE WORKING ON IT NOW. 

The new site has been a long work in progress, but there was only so much we could do on testing servers.  Now that the site is live we are able to fully wrap our hands around some of the holes and problems.

We assure you we are working night and day to get things running smoothly again.  We also hope you like the new site, and promise to continuing adding more to it forever!

Feel free to use our Contact Us form to bring anything to our attention.

9 Models at Checkered Flag Make ACEEE's "Greenest Cars" List

Via MSN Autos, I found that The American Council for an Energy Efficient Economy released its annual "Green Car" scores.  A whopping 9 of the top 12 models are sold at Checkered Flag!  The scores are tabulated by examining fuel economy, emissions and production processes.  New to the list this year is our very own 2008 smart fortwo and the 2008 MINI Cooper/MINI Clubman.  The top spot went to the compressed natural gas powered Honda Civic GX, which is only sold in California and New York.  Also making the top 12 was the Toyota Prius, Honda Civic Hybrid, Toyota Yaris, Toyota Corolla, Toyota Camry Hybrid, Honda Civic and the Honda Fit.

smart fortwo crash test ratings just in

Good news from smart!  The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration recently released results from the smart fortwo front and side impact crash tests (you can view current crash test results by clicking here and entering the year, make and model that you are interested in).  smart says that the results were right in line with their high expectations but also that they are continuing to strive for ways to make the smart fortwo even more safe.  If you can't grasp how the tiny car got such high ratings, stop by smart center Virginia Beach at 5193 Virginia Beach Blvd. and check out the tridion safety cell that's on display.  It's a steel "cage",  similar to those used in race cars, that helps protect the vehicle's occupants.  The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety will be conducting tests as well and their results are expected to come later this month.  We'll keep you posted!

 

Sneak Peek at the New CheckeredFlag.com

BIG, BIG news. Be on the lookout for the totally redesigned CheckerdFlag.com coming very, very soon to a computer near you! The site will have all kinds of new features, but first and foremost it will make our vehicle inventory and specials easier for you to see. We’ll also be showcasing videos detailing different areas of Checkered Flag and bringing you news and updates from around the industry. You’ll also notice that The Checkered Blog will be more integrated with the new CheckeredFlag.com!

The site that you will soon see is the first of two versions that we’ve been working on. It will have a new look and feel along with some exciting new features.  Version 2, coming a little later, will feature a complete overhaul of how we display our inventory.

We know the image on the left is just a teaser, and quite small, but it gives you a good feel for how different the new CheckeredFlag.com will look!  To give you an idea of how much things are going to change, we built the current CheckeredFlag.com in three weeks. We’ve been working on the new CheckeredFlag.com since November!

Has Scion Lost Its Mojo? I Don't Think So.

A teenager in my family is rapidly approaching the ripe old age of 15 which means, of course, that he is counting the days, hours and minutes until he gets a learner’s permit and, eventually, a license to drive. This is both exciting and terrifying. Said teenager has taken to surreptitiously dropping hints regarding the kind of wheels he thinks he should be driving come May of 2009. In doing so, he is testing the waters, exploring the possibilities and, increasingly, amusing the heck out of us. He often points to the old Land Cruiser/Jeep/Bronco topless 4x4s. We laugh and explain about airbags, insurance, maintenance, etc. He relents and, with a sigh, suggests that a new Toyota truck like his father’s wouldn’t be too bad. We laugh, louder this time, and explain that he’s not getting a new car but rather a gently used one (and only if the grades are good). It’s at this moment that we spot a pre-owned Scion xB. Boxy, subversive and, frankly, a little ugly, I think it might be perfect. In suggesting that the xB was more in line with our parental expectations, we got a halfhearted response. Huh??? Not that this was the first time that my idea of "cool" was different than his. I mean, honestly, every time he picks out a pair of shoes, or elects to not get a haircut, I am reminded of our different aesthetic. I was admittedly disappointed at being wrong about this though, thinking that I knew cars, if I knew anything.

So, I get home later that morning and open the Automotive section of the New York Times and, lo and behold, there is this really funny and well-written article about Scion perhaps becoming too mainstream and possibly losing the loyalty of its core customer base. Keep in mind, no one is saying that Scion isn’t still a top quality product and a good value, rather they are questioning whether its individuality has been compromised as it has been successfully integrated into the American market and whether the younger demographic might be resentful of these changes. Ezra Dryer writes,

"The old xB was like a newly arrived Japanese exchange student who dresses like Max Headroom and pulls live sea urchins out of his lunch bag, blissfully naive about his lack of assimilation. The new xB is like the same kid six months later, still unquestionably the product of a different culture, but now self conscious of that fact and beginning to temper his perceived eccentricities with trips to Hollister and the occasional McRib sandwich for lunch."

So, while Dryer is maintaining that youngsters covet their individuality, my feeling is that Scion would simply say that American consumers wanted a bit bigger car and that's what they were given.  Any marketing expert could tell you that a 5 year old media darling like Scion was sure to eventually be scrutinized (by pundits and picky teenagers alike).  And mother ship Toyota would surely point to the fact that, coupled with Scion, they are poised to take the #1 manufacturer in America throne anytime now.  Scion, like all manufacturers will have to change with the times, and I've no doubt they will.  For anyone doubting their commitment to doing things differently, check out my recent post on the Hako concept.  I bet my teenager would think that is cool. 

Here's Max!

As I blogged last week, Volkswagen is introducing their new spokes-vehicle, a talking Bug named Max, to America.  Here's a link to the first video.  Cute.  Funny.  German.  And Heidi's not too bad either.

Meet Checkered Flag Toyota Customer Yvette Jump

The Checkered Blog caught up with this multi-tasking mom at Checkered Flag Toyota where she was having her 2008 Toyota Sienna serviced.  Yvette is a military spouse with a large family, as well as a substitute teacher and a student working toward her teaching degree.  How she found time to stop by Checkered Flag, we'll never know, but we're glad she did!

Checkered Blog:  What's the best thing about your vehicle?

YJ:  The navigation system all year and the heated seats in the winter.

CB:  Why did you choose the Sienna?

YJ:  Actually, it was between the Honda Odyssey and the Sienna and it was refreshing because both the Honda and Toyota salespeople told us that either vehicle would be a good fit for what we wanted. 

CB:  Where are you from and where do you live?

YJ:  Seattle originally, but my husband's in the Navy and we have been in Virginia for five years.  We now live in Suffolk.

CB:  Kids?

YJ:  Three kids, two dogs and two cats.

CB:  !!!!!!

CB:  Best local drive when you have time?

YJ:  Beach.

CB:  Do you have a favorite restaurant?

YJ:  Bangkok Gardens in Ghent.  It's good I don't live closer.

CB:  Why Checkered Flag?

YJ:  The service here has just been excellent.  I came in today for an oil change but a rock cracked my windshield on the way in and they are going to see if they can take care of it for me today.  That's one example.

Fastest Production Car? The Caparo T1

I can say that I've never been asked this question, but I definitely know the answer now.  How do you turn a F1 car into a street car?  Allow me to introduce you to the Caparo T1: