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

Arriving Soon at Checkered Flag: the All-New 2009 Honda Fit

Just yesterday Honda announced details on the newly redesigned 2009 Fit. And today I heard from a dependable source at Checkered Flag Honda that the popular subcompact (over 2,000,000 sold globally in the last six years) will be making its showroom debut sometime next month. As soon as I receive more news on the Fit, I'll be sure to pass it along, but til then here's a preview.

The 2009 model comes as the second generation for the Fit. It's larger than the previous model, about 2.2 inches longer and 0.8 inches wider. Described as a "smart-sized" car, the Fit comfortably seats five passengers, and leaves plenty of room for all their gear. It's versatile in offering multiple seating and cargo configurations, especially with its improved 2nd-row Magic seat with one motion dive-down functionality.

It's equipped with a 1.5-liter i-VTEC four-cylinder engine that produces 117 hp. Five speed manual or five speed automatic transmission is available. And although, the Fit has grown a bit, it still manages spectacular fuel efficiency. It has a EPA fuel economy of 35 miles on the highway and 28 city.

Two trim levels are offered: base Fit and Fit Sport. Standard features on the Fit are: AM/FM/CD audio system with four speakers; MPR/WMA playback capability; Radio Data System (RDS); auxiliary audio input jack; power windows, mirrors, and door locks.

Step up to the Fit Sport and alloy wheels, an underbody aero kit, rear roofline spoiler, fog lights, security system with keyless entry and cruise control are added. The Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System with Voice Recognition featuring a 6.5-inch screen is an option on the Fit Sport.

The Fit comes enhanced with several safety upgrades including Honda's Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) body structure technology and Vehicle Stability Assist (on Sport models). Other standard safety features include: active head restraints; Anti-lock braking; and electronic brake distribution; and a protective system of airbags (front dual-stage, dual-threshold; front-side with passenger-side Occupant Position Detection System; and side curtain).

MSRP for the Fit starts at $14,550 plus a destination and handling charge. The Fit Sport with its additional premium features starts at $16,060. For more information call (757) 490-1111 and ask to speak with the Checkered Flag Honda Sales team.

Unsung Hero: Porsche 911

Described as "simply astounding," the Porsche 911 is quite possibly one of the coolest cars on the planet. It's been considered an icon in the automotive world since its introduction in the 1960s. Most people recognize the 911 as a high performance vehicle that you'd find on the racetrack, and (yes, it is all of that) but it's also great with day-to-day usability. I know, you must've raised an eyebrow with that one... Porsche a daily driver? Well, along with its Porsche siblings, the Boxster and Cayman, the 911 is an unexpected, but very welcome addition to our Unsung Heroes of Fuel Efficiency list.

There's a long list (15 in total) of 911 model variations to choose from. Here's the basic breakdown: base Carrera (starting at $73,500), Carrera S, GT3, Turbo and GT2. You also have your choice of body style (either standard coupe or convertible Cabriolet), and rear-wheel or all-wheel drive. Checkered Flag Porsche's Brian Bowers, a sales representative, showed me a Turbo version of the 911 (pictured here). All 911s have rear mounted horizontally opposed 6-cylinder engines. With the engine in the rear, Brian says the vehicle is more stable and delivers better traction. The Turbo Brian and I looked at produces an incredible 480 hp. The Carrera gets 325 hp. Hp numbers vary on the other models.

Brian says the 911 performs like a race car, but it also drives like a "normal" car. For a vehicle of its class and capability, the 911 gets great gas mileage.  It's rated at 26 miles on the highway, and 18 city (numbers reflect Carrera model). That's about 442 highway miles with its 17 gallon tank. Brian also points out that even with a huge difference in hp, the Turbo gets around the same mpg as the Carrera. The Turbo is capable of 25 highway miles on a gallon of gas. 

While performance and exceptional driving experience and feel are major highlights, the 911 is also equipped with an array of comfort features. It seats four passengers and comes standard with: air conditioning w/automatic climate control; tilt/telescopic leather-wrapped steering wheel; and Porsche Communication Management (PCM) system. A front trunk compartment also offers ample cargo space. Visit here for the full list of features.

Standard on the 911 is a superior braking system consisting of Anti-lock braking (ABS) and 4-piston monobloc fixed alloy calipers and ventilated brake discs. Other safety features include: Bi-Xenon headlights with dynamic range control; Porsche Stability Management; and dual front Advanced Airbags and head and thorax side airbags.

For the fashion conscious driver, the 911 is a dream. Brian tells me you can customize a 911 down to stitch color of the seat upholstery! Porsche offers several exterior color options for the 911, but if a customer came in requesting a specific color, a customized paint match is possible.   

The 911 is one of those vehicles that truly speaks for itself, so it's best to see it in person. If you're interested visit Brian and the Checkered Flag Porsche sales team at 2865 Virginia Beach Boulevard, Virginia Beach or call (757) 490-1111 for more information.

Meet Checkered Flag Jaguar's Janice Thrasher!

CB: Janice, thanks for sharing a few minutes to speak with us. What do you do here at Checkered Flag Jaguar?
Janice: I'm a cashier/receptionist. I've worked here for 5 years now, and I absolutely love it.

CB: Which Hampton Roads city or county do you live in?
Janice: Virginia Beach. It's been about 24 years now. I like the beaches and it's just a great location. My three kids were raised here. By the way, I'm very proud of my daughter and two sons!

CB: What are your hobbies?
Janice: Hmm...let's see, bowling. (Laughs) I learned on the Wii. I also like reading, horseback riding, watching plays, and meeting people. Basically, I just love living life.

CB: What's your favorite restaurant?
Janice: (Smiles) I love food, so I don't know if I have a favorite. There's just so many. My favorite is seafood. Lynnhaven Fish House is good. And there's a new place that just opened near where I live, K & B Seafood. The food was so delicious and the service was impeccable.

CB: What type of music do you listen to?
Janice: All types. I really enjoy Rhianna. She's very talented. My favorite song of her's is Umbrella.

CB: What's the last movie you've seen?
Janice: The Batman one, Dark Knight. It was excellent. I'm a Christian Bale fan, great actor.

CB: Do you have any pets?
Janice: Yes, two poodles named Princess and Snoopy (laughs).

CB: What's the one invention you couldn't live without.
Janice: Air conditioning. I can't stand heat.

CB: What's the one thing that people would be surprised to know about you?
Janice: Uhm...I'm really a people person, so what do people not know about me? Well, I crochet, things like bed spreads. I learned how to back when I was in Catholic school. Oh, I'm an excellent cook too. People don't know that because I eat out a lot, but that's just because my kids are grown, so I don't always have to cook (laughs).

CB: What's the best thing about working for Checkered Flag?
Janice: Working in customer service. I get the opportunity to meet a lot of unique people working here. My co-workers are wonderful too, and I love our interactions with one another. It's just a really great place to work.

Unsung Hero of Fuel Efficiency: Hyundai Santa Fe

Happy Friday Checkered Blog readers! To start off the weekend on a great note, I'd like to introduce you another one of our Unsung Heroes of Fuel Efficiency, the Hyundai Santa Fe. It's a mid size crossover that provides the functionality of an SUV, but still manages the ride and fuel economy of a car.

I spoke with Checkered Flag Hyundai's Paul Taylor, a sales consultant there, and he says the Santa Fe is a quality vehicle all around. Three trim levels are offered: base GLS (starting at $21,270), SE, and top of the line Limited. FYI: There's currently a $2,500 cash back offer available.

The GLS is powered by a 2.7-liter V6 engine with variable valve timing and dual exhaust outlets, garnering 185 hp. Five-speed manual transmission is standard, while four-speed automatic is an option. Move up to the SE or the Limited models, and it comes equipped with 3.3-liter V6 with standard five-speed automatic transmission. Horsepower gets a boost to 242. Mileage wise, the Santa Fe gets a 24 miles on the highway, and 18 in the city. With it's 20 gallon tank, you can get around 480 highway miles on one fill up.

Paul was very nice in giving me a tour of several Santa Fe models. I was especially fond of the Carolina Blue one pictured here. Inside, the seats look and feel comfortable. The Santa Fe has an ample amount of space for five passengers, but optional third row seating is available on the Limited, which increases capacity to seven.

Each of the Santa Fe models come with a lengthy list of standard features including: deluxe cloth seating surfaces (leather seating is standard on the Limited); tilt-and-telescopic steering wheel; cruise control; keyless entry system with alarm; rear privacy glass; and more. See the full list here. It also comes with an AM/FM/XM/CD/MP3- compatible audio system with 6 speakers. Paul also told me about technology options and packages that I'm sure any family would enjoy. The rear seat entertainment package in particular, includes an 8-inch LCD DVD screen with inputs for extra devices such as an Xbox or Playstation!

The Santa Fe also has you covered with safety features. It's a recipient of the IIHS' Top Safety Pick award. Standard safety features include: Electronic Stability Control (ESC); Anti-lock Braking System (ABS); Traction Control System (TCS); tire pressure monitoring system; and tilt and active front head restraints. It also comes equipped with a system of airbags (Dual advanced front airbags, front seat-mounted side-impact airbags and roof-mounted side-curtain airbags).

Paul says the Santa Fe is a great value vehicle. A ton of different options are available to fit every customer's preferences. If you're interested in learning more take a trip to Checkered Flag Hyundai, 3033 Virginia Beach Boulevard, Virginia Beach or call (757) 490-1111 for more information. Have a great weekend!

The New Checkered Flag Book: The Story Behind the Story

We All Win: How the company launched on a whim succeeded, the newly-published book about Checkered Flag, has drawn advance praise from national industry leaders, including from James D. Power, III, the founder of J.D. Power and Associates.  He says We All Win "tells a story that stands out among all dealerships across the country."  Funds raised through the sale of We All Win will benefit United Way of South Hampton Roads. You can purchase the book here on CheckeredFlag.com by clicking on the book icon on the left side of this home page or by visiting any of Checkered Flag's parts departments.

We All Win was written by award-winning former journalist Audrey Knoth, who is now a Norfolk business executive. Recently, the Checkered Blog caught up with Audrey for an interview.  We will be featuring portions of our conversation with her in coming weeks, starting today.

Checkered Blog: Whose idea was it to write a book about Checkered Flag?

Audrey: The idea was mine.  In early 2007, I helped Checkered Flag with several business projects, and as I learned more about the company, I became very intrigued by its history.  Checkered Flag was founded in 1964 by Ed Snyder, who continues to run the company today along with his son Steve Snyder.  That kind of longevity of local ownership and operations is in itself remarkable.  But as I dug into it, I found the story was even more interesting and important than just that.

Checkered Blog: In what way?

Audrey: I learned that prior to founding Checkered Flag, Ed Snyder had managed a department store called Snyder's that his grandfather had started in downtown Norfolk at the turn of the last century.  So when Ed Snyder got into the car business in the mid-1960s, he brought customer-service and marketing practices from the department store into auto retailing, and the things he did were very unusual at the time.  When you hear Ed Snyder and Steve Snyder talk about customer service being Checkered Flag's top priority, they are really talking about a philosophy that has been paramount to the Snyders for more than 100 years.

Checkered Blog: Why are funds raised from the sale of We All Win being used to benefit United Way?

Audrey:  United Way is very important to Checkered Flag and it was for Snyder's department store, too.  What has made it so important is that not only does United Way support such a variety of local organizations, it involves individual employees in the giving process.  Through the generations, the Snyders have believed that giving feels good, that the process is as beneficial to the person who is giving as it is to the recipient, and United Way encourages this.

Checkered Blog: Something that's very noticeable about We All Win is how visually appealing and colorful it is.

Audrey: Yes, the book is more than just a narrative.  We have included lots of great vintage photographs and a cartoonist even created five original cartoon strips and the book's cover.  So we hope that people really enjoy both reading the book and just leafing through it.

Checkered Blog: And all of us at the Checkered Blog hope that everyone will consider purchasing We All Win to help raise funds for United Way of South Hampton Roads.  Please click on the book icon on the left of this home page ro order in online or stop into any Checkered Flag parts department to pick it up in person.

A Rickshaw Model for the MINI Clubman?

For centuries now, the rickshaw has served as a staple of Chinese transportation. To celebrate the release of the MINI Clubman in China, a new version of the traditional two-wheel rickshaw cart was introduced to the streets of Beijing. So you're wondering, what does a rickshaw have to do with a MINI Clubman? Well, this new version dubbed "MINI Clubman: The Other Rickshaw" is a "hybrid" of sorts. From the front it looks like a typical rickshaw. Move towards the back and you're in for a unique addition, a Clubman rear-end!

A fleet of these MINI rickshaws are shuttling locals and tourists alike around the Olympic city. Powered by pure man muscle, the MINI rickshaw is as fuel efficient and emission-free as a vehicle could possibly be. Here's a list of the rickshaw's technical specifications, provided by MotoringFile.com. 

Horsepower: 1 manpower
Torque: Variable
Driveline: Chain. Rear wheel drive!-Brake: Wire operated e-brake
Doors: 3
Seats: 3
Emissions: None
Mileage: Results vary depending on drivers' food consumption

Styling wise, the MINI rickshaw is equipped with a glass sunroof and leather interior. It's also decked out with real Chinese lucky charms and talismen. They're intended to bring luck to passengers and also release positive vibes for the Games. Speaking of which, maybe these rickshaw drivers deserve some Olympic medals too. I'm sure it takes major athleticism to drive one, especially with a couple of tourists in tow! Check out the photos below from Autoblog.

Unsung Hero of Fuel Efficiency: BMW Z4

I've been a fan of today's Unsung Hero of Fuel Efficiency for some time now. Ever since an uncle of mine took me for a ride in his then brand new Alpine White Z4, I've held it in high regard. The Z4 is a striking luxury sports car that truly does deliver BMW's signature driving experience. I stopped by Checkered Flag BMW to reunite with the Z4. Stephen Reid, a client advisor there, was gracious enough to spend a few minutes showing me one.

The BMW Z4 is offered either as a two-seat roadster (starting at $36,700) or coupe. Two trims are available for the roadster, 3.0i and 3.0si. The Z4 coupe is only offered in the 3.0si trim. A lightweight 3.0-liter inline 6-cylinder engine gives the Z4 the pairing of impressive power and desired fuel efficiency. The 3.0i produces 215 hp, while the more powerful 3.0si boasts 255 hp. Six-speed manual transmission comes standard, but automatic with manual shift control is offered. Both Z4 models and trims have mpg ratings of 18 miles in the city and 28 highway. With its 15 gallon tank, the Z4 can get around 420 highway miles.

Outside, the Z4 is a head turner with its long hood and insulated convertible softtop with heated glass rear window. A hardtop is available for the coupe. Exceptional styling continues inside with leatherette seating and trim that come standard. The great thing about the Z4 interior that I really appreciate is its classic simplicity. The dash is bare with easy to read gauges. Of course, you can add a bit more flair to the interior with an optional navigation system and onboard computer (included with the premium package). The onboard computer conveniently displays average fuel economy, average speed, remaining fuel, and the current time.

Other standard comfort and convenience features include: 6-way manually adjustable sport seats; tilt-telescoping steering wheel; leather-covered multi-function sport steering wheel; and a remote entry with multi-function remote control. Also, Z4 models are outfitted with anti-theft AM/FM/CD audio system with Radio Data System, MP3 capabilities and 10 speakers. For the full list of features, visit here.

Every BMW Z4 comes standard with a number of safety features including: dual-airbag supplementary restraint system; side-impact airbags; enhanced braking system; dynamic stability control; all-season traction; and active knee protection. It's also equipped with a rollover safety system that consists of two steel rollbars located behind the headrests.

There's no question that the Z4 is a memorable car. Stephen says it's a popular and fun car. We both recommend experiencing it in person by visiting the Checkered Flag BMW sales team at 5225 Virginia Beach Boulevard, Virginia Beach or call (757) 490-1111 for more information.

How Many Balloons Fit Inside a smart car?

The smart car is obviously a tad bit smaller and shorter than most vehicles. So it's understandable why most people are surprised when they see how roomy this two-seater really is. The folks at smart center Virginia Beach wanted to prove that small size doesn't mean cramped space. They invited customers to participate in a festive contest that posed the question, "How many balloons can fit in a smart car?"

Any guesses? Ten...twenty...or maybe even thirty? Nope, try an unbelievable 49 balloons!!! Check out the pictures below. I've seen the smart car up close several times now, and for a car of its stature it really does offer a great amount of space. See it for yourself at 5193 Virginia Beach Boulevard, Virginia Beach.

Also, a big congratulations goes out to the lucky customer who was right on the money and gave the winning guess!

New Book Recounts CF's Risky Rise & Success Secrets

When a 12-year old boy walked out of a Polish village in 1882 in search of a better life, it was literally the first step toward the founding of Checkered Flag.

The story of how Checkered Flag came to be, the obstacles it faced, and the customer-service philosophies that propelled it to success are told in the new book We All Win: How the company launched on a whim succeeded, written by Audrey Knoth.  We All Win has received advance praise from leading auto industry executives, who call it "a remarkable book about a remarkable business enterprise."  We All Win is now available for sale here on CheckeredFlag.com (click here) and, starting on Friday, August 8th, in all Checkered Flag parts departments.  Funds raised through its sale will benefit United Way of South Hampton Roads.

The book recounts how the near-penniless Louis Snyder arrived in America in the late 19th century and how, from a small dry goods company, he built a major Norfolk, Virginia department store operated by successive generations of the Snyder family.  His grandson Ed Snyder took over management of Snyder's department store in the early 1960s.  In 1964, Ed invested in a small British sports car dealership and, at his wife Jean's suggestion, named it Checkered Flag.

We All Win explains how Checkered Flag prevailed over challenges, failures, and risks to grow from one humble showroom to the auto retailer it is today, with 11 new-car franchises and a used-vehicle superstore in Virginia Beach and Norfolk, and selling more than 12,000 vehicles annually.  Ed Snyder continues as president 44 years after its founding; son Steve Snyder is senior vice president.

The author, Audrey Knoth, is a former broadcast and newspaper journalist who's now a Norfolk business executive.  She says she had the idea to write the book after helping Checkered Flag with several projects in early 2007.

"I became intrigued by Checkered Flag's history, which had never been researched and told," she says.  "The more I learned about Checkered Flag, the more I realized its story is a compelling one that has meaning for people both inside and outside of the car business."

Audrey spent over a year researching and writing We All Win, conducting extensive interviews, consulting with auto industry and academic experts, and poring through historical and newspaper archives.  Vintage photos, illustrations, and original cartoons accompany the book's absorbing narrative.

"I found that the principles that originated more than a hundred years ago remain at the foundation of Checkered Flag today," Audrey says.  "Among them: if you take care of your employees, they will take care of your customers; nothing is more important than customer service; failure should teach you rather than frighten you; and taking risks is absolutely essential to succeeding."

All of us with the Checkered Blog are excited about the book and we hope you will consider purchasing it.  It's a great read and with the funds raised benefiting United Way, you could say We All Win!

Unsung Hero of Fuel Efficiency: Toyota RAV4

The Toyota RAV4 is a pioneer in the compact SUV class. It was introduced more than 10 years ago (debuted in 1996), but still holds a strong reputation as a reliable, safe, and comfortable vehicle. This Unsung Hero of Fuel Efficiency was picked as one of the "Best Cars"for families by AAA and Parents Magazine. IntelliChoice also gave it the award for "Highest Retained Value" in it's class.

As the smallest member of Toyota's family of SUVs, I've always found the RAV4 particularly appealing. A friend drives one and absolutely loves it. And it's easy to see why. I spoke with Checkered Flag Toyota's business manager Brian Korich (pictured below) and sales consultant JR Grayer about the RAV4.

It comes in three trim levels: Base (starting at $21,500), Sport, and Limited. RAV4 models come with either a 2.4-liter 4-cylinder or a 3.5-liter V6 engine, and either front-wheel drive or all-wheel-drive. Automatic transmission comes standard. The 2.4-liter produces166 hp, while the V6 engine produces a 269 hp. Both engines get comparably great gas mileage for a vehicle of its class. The RAV4 is rated at 21/27 city/highway (2.4-L, 2WD). The mpg numbers don't change too much with the larger and more powerful 3.5-liter engine. You're still looking at 27 miles on the highway, and 19 city. With a 16 gallon tank, it can get over 430 highway miles.

JR took me for a drive in the RAV4. It drives smoothly and the seats are very comfortable. The RAV4 is a five passenger vehicle, but JR says an optional 3rd row bench makes room for seven. If you don't need the extra seats, the bench folds flat into the cargo floor. I was also impressed by the dash layout. It's straightforward and everything is placed where it should be. JR says RAVs were specifically designed with that in mind. All the controls and switches on the console would be easy to reach for any size driver. JR also highlighted the convenient dual glove box and 10 cupholders.

Other standard features include: 16-in. steel wheels and wheel covers; full-size spare tire mounted on the rear; AM/FM CD player, MP3/WMA playback capability and six speakers; and a handy first aid kit. Also, don't be fooled by the RAV4's grouping as a compact SUV. Even though it stands smaller than other SUVs, the RAV4 still has a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 pounds (V6 engine).

Safety wise, the RAV4 has you protected with Toyota's Star Safety System which includes: Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) with Traction Control; Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist. Driver and front passenger front seat-mounted side airbags and front- and second-row roll-sensing side curtain airbags (RSCA) also come standard. The safety feature list is long, so visit here for the full list.

If you're interested in seeing the RAV4 in person, visit Checkered Flag Toyota, 5301 Virginia Beach Boulevard, Virginia Beach or call (757) 490-1111 for more information.

VW Goes for Gold with Green Cars

The Beijing Olympics start this Friday, and as the exclusive Automobile partner for the 2008 games, Volkswagen has provided 5,000 vehicles to the Olympic Committee. Known as the "Volkswagen Green Fleet," this team of vehicles are low fuel consumers and low CO2 emitters, making them incredibly eco-friendly. They're also equipped with Volkswagen Group state-of-the-art powertrain technology, and feature advanced engines and gearboxes.

The Green Fleet roster includes the Magotan 2.0 TDI, Sagitar 1.4 TSI, Touran EcoFuel, Tiguan 2.0 TDI and Magotan BlueMotion models. We know the Magotan as the Passat and the Sagitar as the Jetta. They'll be used to shuttle organizers, athletes, media, and guests participating in the various Olympic events.

Each fleet vehicle sports a specially created design that incorporates the Olympic Games logo and brand concepts such as "mobility", "wind", and "road". Check out the photos below from Autoblog Green.

FYI: The Olympics Opening Ceremony is scheduled to air Friday, 7:30 PM on NBC. Special thanks to all the athletes that are representing our country at the Olympics. Best of luck!

Unsung Hero of Fuel Efficiency: Honda Odyssey

Some of my fondest childhood memories took place in a minivan. My family would spend hours in our minivan traveling to different places. Of course back then gas cost less, so it was easy to load up the minivan for weekend road trips. Times have since changed, but when I realized that today's Unsung Hero of Fuel Efficiency was the Honda Odyssey, a bit of nostalgia set in.

The Odyssey has come a long way from the minivans I grew up with. It's a stylish and comfortable 8-passenger hauler that provides modern day conveniences. Car and Driver chose the Odyssey as its pick for Best Van in their "5Best" Trucks list.

Vernon Belford, a sales and leasing consultant at Checkered Flag Honda, ventured outside in this 90 degree weather wearing a very nice (and I'm sure also very hot) suit to show me the Odyssey.   Four trim levels are available: base LX (starting at $25,860), EX, EX-L, and the top of the line Touring. All models are powered by a 3.5-liter V6 with 5-speed automatic transmission. Vernon says the Odyssey isn't the typical van because it rides more like a car.

The EX-L and Touring engines include Variable Cylinder Management (VCM). This is the same fuel saving system that's found on another Honda Unsung Hero we've featured before, the Pilot. Just to refresh your memory, the VCM manages fuel consumption by allowing the V6 engine to automatically deactivate and reactivate cylinders depending on what it needs. It lets the vehicle run on 3, 4 or 6 cylinders, which means better fuel economy. The Odyssey gets 23 highway miles, and 16 city. On its 21 gallon tank, you can get over 480 highway miles.

Seating for 8 is the obvious highlight on the Odyssey. Vernon demonstrated the different ways you can utilize the 2nd row "magic seat." It allows for either 3 passenger bench seating, or can be removed for extra cargo/storage space. The Odyssey has a whopping 15 beverage holders! Standard features include: dual-zone air conditioning (tri-zone automatic climate control on EX, EX-L and Touring); tilt and telescope steering wheel; power windows and door locks; and keyless entry.

A number of available options would come in handy for a family that's always on the go. The Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System with voice recognition and 8-inch screen, and the Honda DVD Entertainment System are a few that standout. Check out the full list here.

As one would expect in a family-geared vehicle, the Odyssey comes with loads of safety features. Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA); anti-lock brakes with brake assist; Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) body structure; active front seat head restraints; and daytime running lights all come standard. Also, dual-threshold driver's and front passenger's SRS airbags; front side airbags with passenger-side Occupant Protection Detection System (OPDS); and three-row side-curtain airbags with rollover sensor are included to protect every Odyssey occupant.

See the very family-friendly Odyssey at Checkered Flag Honda, 6541 East Virginia Beach Blvd, Norfolk or call (757) 490-1111 for more information.

Limited Edition Heats Up Showroom

Welcome back from the weekend Checkered Blog readers! I've got some exciting news to share on this Monday. Remember, Scion's new limited edition Hot Lava xD Release Series 1.0 that we told you about a few weeks ago? Well, I heard from Lawrence Doligosa, Scion Champion and Internet Sales Manager, the Hot Lava has finally arrived.

I headed over to Checkered Flag Scion as soon as I could to check out this magma-inspired vehicle. The "hot lava" orange exterior paint job and DAMD body kit would most definitely help you stand out from the crowd. The matching interior is also a great touch. Orange accents are found throughout the interior including on the RAZO Release Series shift knob and dash. MSRP is $14,550 for the manual transmission, and $15,350 for automatic.

Again, there are only 2,000 of the Hot Lava xDs in the entire world. And FYI, Lawrence says Checkered Flag Scion is expected to only receive two or three Hot Lava models, so if you're interested stop by 5193 Virginia Beach Boulevard, Virginia Beach or call (757)-490-1111 for more information.

Meet Checkered Flag Porsche/Audi's Bill Thomas!

CB: How long have you worked at Checkered Flag?
Bill: Hmm...let's see. Well, I worked here three years prior, but I left to run a family business called Dream Dinners. My wife handles that now, so I returned to work here.

CB: Which Hampton Roads city or county do you live in?
Bill: Virginia Beach. I've lived there since I was ten.

CB: Besides Porsche and Audi what are your other hobbies?
Bill: Music. I play the guitar and drums. All kinds of music, anything from alternative or rock. Stuff from Coldplay and Red Hot Chili Peppers. Hmm...what else?  Volleyball, soccer, video games, golf, and working.

CB: What's your favorite restaurant?
Bill: Well, I don't know if I'd say it's my favorite place to eat, but definitely a great place to hang out and play music. The Green Oak. The owner always asks us if we want to play music. It's just a cool place to hang out.

CB: What's in your MP3 player or CD player right now?
Bill: About a 1,000 songs (laughs). Lordie, I listen to everything. Picking out a favorite song is hard. I listen to Stone Sour and Coldplay a lot. Travis is a great band too.

CB: What's the last movie you've seen?
Bill: After tonight, hopefully it'll be Dark Knight. I've been trying to see it. IMAX has been sold out for every showing!

CB: Do you have any pets?
Bill: A Yorkie named Chewie because he looks like Chewbacca (laughs).

CB: What's the one thing people would be surprised to know about you?
Bill: Ah, this one's hard. Well, I have a pilot's license. I got it when I was like 21 or 22, and I fly every once and awhile. Small planes like Cessnas.

CB: What's the one invention you couldn't live without?
Bill: Electricity! I need it for my guitar amps to play loud. Oh, and definitely air-conditioning.

CB: What's the best thing about working at Checkered Flag?
Bill: Dealing with the best customers and being able to drive the best cars in the world. You take pride in that. We have the best customers, people, and cars. It's just great. 

Unsung Hero of Fuel Efficiency: BMW 528i

We've featured cars from BMW's 1-series and 3-series as Unsung Heroes of Fuel Efficiency. Today, we're adding another BMW to the list. This time it's the 528i, the first model in the 5-series lineup. Like its siblings before, the 528i puts an emphasis on the driving experience. It sets a high standard in the mid-size luxury sedan segment by bringing a mixture of unrivaled performance, luxury, and comfort.

Checkered Flag BMW client advisors Michael Kulp and Dave Lindsey, Jr. (pictured here) both kindly braved the heat outside to show me the 528i (starting at $44,600).  This rear-wheel drive shares the same 3.0-liter inline 6-cylinder engine as the 3-series models. All-wheel drive is available on the 528ix version. Six-speed manual or automatic transmission with steptronic gear is offered.

With a powerful engine that produces 230-hp and 200lb-feet of torque, the 528i achieves great fuel efficiency. The STEPTRONIC automatic transmission mentioned earlier helps improve gear shifting and reduces fuel consumption by adapting to each driver differently. It's rated at 28 miles on the highway, and 18 city. On it's 18 gallon tank, the 528i can get around 500 highway miles. 

I walked around the 528i a few times to get a feel for the vehicle, and it really is a beauty. The "flared nostril" front end and the double grille integrated into the hood are attention grabbers. Dave and I moved to the interior, and it was a great place to seek shelter from the heat. The combination of wood and leather upholstery was inviting. The 528i seats up to five passengers. Dave also showed me the convenient cupholders that swing out from the inside of the dash. They're positioned up high where you can see it, so no more fumbling around to reach a cupholder while you're driving.   

The 528i also has a healthy list of standard features that include: automatic climate control; 2-way power glass moonroof with remote; power-adjustable headrests, automatic tilt-down passenger's side-view mirror (useful when you're parallel parking); Anti-theft AM/FM stereo/CD audio system with 10 speakers and MP3 capabilities; and more. Check out the full list of features here.

Of course, there are a ton of technical gadgets for you to choose from. Here are a few options that standout: lane departure warming (the steering wheel vibrates if you cross lanes without signaling); active cruise control with stop and go; and night vision. The night vision feature is especially cool. An infrared camera built into the front of the 528i allows you to see pedestrians or animals up to 328 yards ahead in the dark!

The 528i comes equipped with a full range of passive and active safety features including: extended crumple zones; 6 airbags (front, front-passenger, and curtain); antilock brakes; and front safety belts with automatic pretensioners.

If you're interested in finding out more about the 528i, visit Checkered Flag BMW at 5225 Virginia Beach Boulevard, Virginia Beach or call (757) 490-111.

Hollywood Drives into Virginia Beach

If you were anywhere near the Virginia Beach Convention Center yesterday afternoon, I'm sure you caught whiff of burning rubber and heard the echoes of screeching brakes. The IFPDI (International Film & Precision Driving Instructors) team held live demonstrations there to kick off the official launch of their International Stunt Driver Training Program.

You've seen many of these professional stunt drivers before in movies such as Mission Impossible II, Bad Boys II, X-Men, Independence Day, Die Hard, and 2 Fast 2 Furious, just to name a few. Stunt driving is no joke and these guys really know what they're doing. They have more than 270 years of combined experience as stunt performers, coordinators, and directors!

Yours truly got the opportunity to sit shotgun with Shane Cardwell, the founder of IFPDI and experienced stunt professional, while he demonstrated some precision tricks. I jumped in not really knowing what to expect, but it proved to be such an adrenaline rush. Thanks, Shane! Even Virginia Beach Mayor Meyera Oberndorf came out to enjoy the exciting stunts. See the pictures below.

You too can get behind the wheel with members of the IFPDI team. Visit their website for more information on the stunt driving training program, or contact Tania Cardwell at (757) 333-2600. Also, be sure to check out the compilation of video clips below from yesterday's demonstrations.

Online Videos by Veoh.com

Unsung Hero of Fuel Efficiency: Hyundai Azera

When most people think about buying a new vehicle, one of the main considerations made is value. Everyone wants a car that gives the most for their money.  The Unsung Hero of Fuel Efficiency for today has earned a well-deserved reputation of delivering plenty of value. The Hyundai Azera brings an impressive amount of interior space, a long list of features, and a balance of power and efficiency, all at a price that's considerably lower than it's competitors. It was named the "Most Appealing Large Car" by J.D. Power & Associates and "A Consumer's Digest Best Buy."

The Azera is available in two trims: base-level GLS (starting at $24,770) and top of the line Limited. John Peterson, a sales consultant at Checkered Flag Hyundai tells me that the Azera delivers a quiet and smooth ride. The GLS has a 3.3-liter V6 engine and on the Limited is a 3.8-liter. 5-speed automatic transmission with overdrive, shift interlock and SHIFTRONIC come standard.

Both engines have Continuously Variable Valve Timing (CVVT), which helps deliver improved power and fuel efficiency. MPG wise, for a vehicle of its class, the Azera does well with a rating of 18 miles in the city and 26 on the highway. With it's 20 gallon tank, it can get around 520 highway miles.

As mentioned earlier, the Azera boasts a ton of interior space. It comfortably seats up to five passengers. I hopped in the backseat and there's plenty of head and leg room to keep passengers happy. A large-sized trunk and 60/40-split rear folding seats offer ample cargo space. John also noted the exceptional workmanship of the interior.

Standard features on the GLS include: premium cloth upholstery; power front seats; dual-zone automatic climate control; a manual tilt/telescoping steering column with leather-wrapped steering wheel; and remote keyless entry. Step up to the Limited model and the power rear sunshade, electroluminescent gauges, leather seating surfaces and heated front seats come standard. The Limited also comes with a 315-watt Infinity audio system with in-dash 6-disc CD changer and iPod/USB capability. Visit here for the full list of features.

Safety features are abundant as well. The Azera has a total of 8 airbags including: dual front airbags; front and rear-side impact airbags; and side curtain airbags. Other safety highlights are: Active front head restraints; Electronic Stability Control; Brake Assist; Tire pressure monitoring system; and Anti-lock braking system.

If you're looking for a real value, the Hyundai Azera would be a worth-while consideration. John says the Azera has the style and charm of a luxury sedan, but at a non luxury price. See the Azera in person at Checkered Flag Hyundai, 3033 Virginia Beach Boulevard, Virginia Beach or call (757) 490-1111 for more information.

Jaguar Takes Top Rank In Customer Service Again!

For the second year in a row, Jaguar North America claims the number one spot in delivering customer satisfaction with dealer service. The J.D. Power Customer Service Index (CSI) released last week, found that Jaguar ranks highest with an overall CSI score of 923 points on 1,0000-point scale. The study measures customer satisfaction among vehicle owners who receive maintenance or repair work at a dealer service department during the first three years of ownership.

Kim Sandy the Service Parts and Director at Checkered Flag Jaguar, says the relationships built between the service department team and customers are very important. The high CSI ratings are the direct result of a strong staff who continually keep their customers happy. "We are very fortunate to have a great and reliable service team."

Shop Manager Michael Williams says customers  rely on dealerships to let them know what services their  automobiles need. Correctly fixing a car the first time is also a main concern among customers. The Jaguar service team works hard to deliver a high standard of service quality. To ensure that Jaguar customers stay satisfied during service visits, several conveniences are provided such as a comfortable facility, courtesy rides, loaner cars, and free service washes. Michael says, "It's simple. We treat customers the way they want to be treated."

Six measures were considered in the study: service initiation, service advisor, in-dealership experience, service delivery, service quality and user-friendly service. Jaguar received very high index scores among repair customers, particularly in the service initiation, service advisor, and user-friendly service measures. If you'd like to read more of the study's findings visit the J.D. Power and Associates website. We here at the Checkered Blog would like to thank everyone at Jaguar for all their hard work. Congratulations!

Join Checkered Flag Porsche at VIR August 8-10th

JOIN US  for the inaugural Zone 2 PCA Club Race & Advanced DE Weekend!

August 8-10, 2008 @ VIR (Full Course)

Registration opens May 5, 2008 at 9:00pm (CDT) at www.clubregistration.net

This will be a three race PCA Club Race weekend (two sprint races and one enduro race). 

Advanced DE open to advanced solo/instructors only as there will be a single DE run group.

This is a dedicated PCA Club Race & Advanced DE only weekend.

Test & Tune (Not a PCE Event) on August 7, 2008 will be run/managed by VIR. 
Please contact VIR for info on the T&T.

Spectators are welcome, but please RSVP in advance.  You can email Richard Hutsko to RSVP as a spectator:  rnhutsko@checkeredflag.com

Virginia International Raceway is located in Alton, VA (near Danville) which is about a 3-4 hour drive from Virginia Beach.  It may sound like a hike, but time at VIR is always well worth it.

Meet Checkered Flag MINI Customer Alice Schooler!

Alice is a Virginia Beach resident who LOVES her British Racing Green 2006 MINI Cooper. She works as a civilian employee at Naval Amphibious Base Little Creek and has lived in the area for almost 20 years. Thanks for talking with us Alice!

CB: What's the best thing about being a MINI driver?
Alice: I love MINI! I like smaller cars, so it's perfect for me and it handles well.

CB: What are your hobbies?
Alice: Hmm my hobbies...knitting. And I like reading, romance novels.

CB: Where's your favorite place to eat?
Alice: I like the Cheesecake Factory and Olive Garden. The food is good and they give you a good quantity of it. (Laughs) You know they don't just give you a small scoop. It's good portions.

CB: What do you have in your MP3 player or CD player right now?
Alice: I listen to a variety of things. Mostly anything. I really like Madonna.

CB: What's the last movie you've seen?
Alice: Now, that's a question I can't answer. I don't go to the movies. And I couldn't tell you what the last one I saw on T.V. is (laughs). I don't remember.

CB: Do you have any pets?
Alice: Yes, a cat named Rusty.

CB: What's the one thing about you that people would be surprised to know?
Alice: Hmm...I was in the Navy. Not too many people know that I was in the military.

CB: What's the one invention you couldn't live without?
Alice: Oh geez, at my age I don't think I would give up anything (laughs). Probably Cable T.V. or a computer. I just want to keep going forward because technology just makes life easier.

CB: What's the best thing about being a Checkered Flag customer?
Alice: I never have a problem here. The customer service is always great, and the atmosphere is very comfy.

 

Unsung Hero of Fuel Efficiency: Honda Pilot

Some of the wittiest commercials I've seen have been for the Honda Pilot. If you haven't seen them, I suggest a visit to the Honda website. You'll get a good chuckle or two. The one titled "Ballooning" had me rolling the first time I saw it. So...you're probably wondering, the Pilot is a mid-size SUV, and those three letters typically don't associate with great mpg. Well it comes as a welcome surprise (to me too), but the Pilot does meet the criteria as an Unsung Hero of Fuel Efficiency.

The 2009 model is the second edition of the Pilot (it debuted summer of '02). Carl Dyson, a sales representative at Checkered Flag Honda, says the newer version brings more features, more power, and better fuel economy. Out of all the Unsung Heroes we've featured so far, the Pilot sticks out as one of the larger vehicles on the list. Carl says that although gas prices have caused many drivers to sway away from larger SUV's, smaller vehicles don't fit all lifestyles. That's where the  Pilot comes in as a great alternative.

Four trim styles are offered: base LX (starting at $27,595), EX, EX-L, and top-of-the-line Touring. The Pilot comes equipped with a 3.5-liter i-VTEC V-6 engine producing 250 horsepower. All models are available with front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive.

Honda's Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) system is a key feature on the Pilot and it's designed to help improve fuel efficiency, without giving up the abilities of a powerful engine. Carl explains that the VCM manages fuel consumption and allows the V6 engine to automatically deactivate and reactivate cylinders depending on what it needs. With VCM the Pilot is able to run on 3, 4 or 6 cylinders. You can get the V6 power when accelerating or climbing, but you also have the efficiency of a smaller engine for everyday cruising. The 2WD is rated at 17/23 mpg city/highway, and 16/22 for the 4WD. The Pilot's 20 gallon tank can get around 460 highway miles.

The Pilot offers 3 rows of seating for 8 passengers, which makes it perfect for families. It's outfitted with a ton of family-friendly features too such as: 60/40 split flat-folding seats for optimized cargo space; beverage holders in all 3 rows (12 total!); 12-volt power outlets (in the front, 2nd-row, and cargo areas); flip up rear glass hatch; and standard integrated tow hitch. An AM/FM/CD Audio System with 7 speakers and subwoofer is also standard. If you need more to keep the family entertained and happy, the Honda DVD Rear Entertainment System is an option on the Pilot EX-L and Pilot Touring.

Standard safety equipment includes: Advanced Compatibility Engineering Body Structure; Dual-Stage, Dual Threshold Front Airbags (SRS); Front Side Airbags with Passenger-Side Occupant Position Detection System (OPDS); Three-Row Side Curtain Airbags with Rollover Sensor; Tire Pressure Monitoring System and more. Also a rearview mirror with rearview camera display is a highlight on the EX-L. For extra child passenger protection, the Pilot boasts four Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) positions. That's more than any other SUV in the segment.

To check out the Pilot in person, visit the Checkered Flag Honda sales team at  6541 East Virginia Beach Blvd, Norfolk or call (757) 490-1111 for more information.

Keeping Your Car Safe from Mother Nature

There's a couple tropical storms brewing in the Atlantic right now, but luckily it looks like Hampton Roads won't be affected much at all. But with hurricane season fully underway (lasting from June 1 to November 30), it's never too early to start preparing. Everyone knows to stock up on non-perishable foods and to board up their homes when there's a hurricane nearing, but you should also keep your car in mind. Flying debris and flood waters can cause major damage, so here are a few suggestions on how to keep you and your car safe during a storm.

Keep updated and supplied: Thanks to savvy weather technology, we usually have a few days notice before a hurricane makes landfall. Watch for warnings and evacuation alerts. If they recommend evacuating, it's probably in your best interest to do so. Also it's a very good idea to keep a full tank of gas and emergency supplies in your car.  After a hurricane, it might be difficult to find a working gas station because of power outages, so fill up beforehand. Also, make sure you're familiar with evacuation routes.

Shelter your car from debris: Hurricane winds can reach up 150 miles an hour and strong winds like that could do quite a number on your car. Keep your car covered, preferably in a garage. If you don't have a garage, make sure you park your car away from any trees, telephone poles, signs, or anything that could potentially fall.

Move to higher ground: If you live in an area that's susceptible to flooding, move your car to higher ground. Floods waters can cause exterior damage, but more concerning is the havoc it can cause on the inner mechanics of your car. High water levels can corrode your electrical system or cause engine failure, which could prove to be very costly. After the storm hits, you may want to have a professional mechanic inspect the car. This will also help with filing any insurance claims. Also, you should never try to take shelter in your car during a hurricane. Cars can easily be swept away by floods.

These tips may seem obvious, but preparing for a hurricane can be a stressful time, and it's easy to overlook them. There are a ton of resources out there on hurricane preparation. The American Red Cross website is a great one to check out for tips. The Ready Virginia Hurricane Preparedness website is also a very useful. There you can download a Virginia 2008 Hurricane Guide. Remember, it's always better to prepare ahead of time. Don't wait til the last minute.

Unsung Hero of Fuel Efficiency: Toyota Matrix

When the Toyota Matrix came out in 2003, it was the first vehicle of its kind to combine a distinctly unique look with functionality. The Matrix falls somewhere between a compact car, sport wagon, and a crossover utility. If you look around now, the Matrix was definitely quite the trendsetter. Many similar vehicles have followed suit, but the Matrix still leads the pack in offering performance, affordability, versatility, and efficiency. And to add a little more to the Matrix's credit, it's dubbed as one of our Unsung Heroes of Fuel Efficiency.

The current 2009 Matrix comes as a second generation redesign. Cynthia Rawlings, a sales consultant at Checkered Flag Toyota (pictured here), says the Matrix is a very reliable vehicle that's based on the Corolla sedan, but comes as a sportier hatchback. Three trim levels are available for the Matrix: base (starting at $16,190), S, and XRS. The base Matrix is powered by a 1.8-liter engine that has 132 horsepower. The S and top level XRS both come with 2.4-liter engines and 158 horsepower. Transmissions offered are 4-speed automatic, 5-speed automatic, and 5-speed manual gearbox.

Matrix engines also feature Dual VVT-I (Variable Valve Timing with intelligence) that help with performance and fuel efficiency. The base model gets 32 highway miles and 26 city. Both the S and XRS are rated at 28 highway, 21 city. With a 14 gallon tank you'll get around 450 highway miles.

Inside, the Matrix is friendly to both passengers and cargo. It comfortably seats five people and has enough space to carry items up to 8 feet long. Cynthia demonstrated the 60/40 split fold-down rear seats, and it looks like you could easily fit a surfboard. I pulled an image from the Toyota website that shows how much you can really pack into it. Pretty impressive and useful. Every Matrix features colorful LED Optitron gauges that house an easy to read speedometer, fuel and engine temperature indicators. It's also equipped with an AM/FM CD player with MP3/WMA playback capability and an auxiliary audio jack for your portable music player.

Safety wise, the Matrix comes standard with: front driver and passenger airbags; front seat-mounted side airbags and front and rear side curtain airbags; 4-wheel ABS; Direct Tire Pressure Monitor System; active headrests, and much more. Visit here for the full list.

In addition to those standard features, an array of optional features are offered. Cynthia highlighted a few of the most popular options includin