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

Ultimate Driving for Good Cause

Flag Raiser gave me the heads-up yesterday that there was lots going at Checkered Flag BMW with the Ultimate Drive supporting Susan G. Komen for the Cure event. I headed over and was really touched by all that was occurring.

The BMW Ultimate Drive (now in its 12th year) is a nationwide effort involving partners, BMW North America and Susan G. Komen for the Cure, to raise awareness and funds to end breast cancer. Like I mentioned yesterday, Checkered Flag is one of about 210 BMW dealership locations across the country participating in the event.

Jennifer Gartrell, the co-chair for the event says, "Cancer touches everyone, whether it be personally or someone you know. One in eight women risk the chance of breast cancer during their lifetimes, so this event is a really great way to talk about it with people here in Tidewater."

Checkered Flag BMW general manager John Hall says, "The BMW Ultimate Drive is a great event and we're glad to hold it here. It gives us a chance to support the effort and reach out to the community. That's something Checkered Flag holds very important. We're glad to be part of it." 

It was great to see so many people waiting outside for their turns to drive the special pink-ribbon BMWs. For every mile driven during a test drive, BMW donates $1 to Susan G. Komen for the Cure.

I spoke with Checkered Flag customer Katie Garett, who says she test drove both 5-series and 6-series vehicles. "I think this event is awesome. It gives us a chance to support a good cause and also drive some really cool cars. Next, I'm going to test out the M3," she says. 

Paul Zimmerman, an income tax agent, tells me that it is his third time participating in the Ultimate Drive. Paul says, "This is an excellent way to motivate people to be charitable and spread the awareness about breast cancer. I've test driven every car they have out here (laughs)."

After test driving, participants were welcome to add their names to the Signature Vehicle. This year's Signature Vehicle the X6, was covered with names. It's great visual to represent the outpour of support for Susan G. Komen for the Cure.

Every year, Susan G. Komen for the Cure selects a local hero to recognize at Ultimate Drive. This year's local hero was Kim Urch who has helped raise over $100,000 with her Race for the Cure team, Mammary Lane. Great work, Kim. Congrats!

There was no shortage of inspiring stories circling around the BMW showroom. I also got the chance to speak with Pat Phelan, president of the Tidewater Affiliate of Susan G. Komen, Karen Ellis (pictured below with Jennifer Gartell) and Wanda Wilson, members of the Tidewater Affiliate. All three shared with me that they are breast cancer survivors. It was so wonderful to speak with these ladies. 

The BMW Ultimate Drive is a great event for a great cause. If you’d like to follow their trip, the next stop is in Raleigh, NC. And for more information visit here. Happy Weekend, Checkered Blog readers!

 

 

  

 

Support a Great Cause with a Great Drive

The BMW Ultimate Drive supporting Susan G. Komen for the Cure is now in its 12th year. They're once again embarking on the "ultimate drive" across the country to raise funds and awareness to end breast cancer. Today, the Ultimate Drive makes a stop at Checkered Flag BMW.

The event encourages everyone to come out and support the battle against breast cancer by test driving BMWs. Checkered Flag is just one of the over 210 BMW dealership locations participating in the event.

For each mile driven (on a designated course), BMW North America will donate $1 to Susan G. Komen for the Cure. You'll get behind the wheel of several special, pink-ribbon BMW vehicles from the entire BMW lineup. This year's Signature Vehicle is the new X6. Everyone who test drives can add their name to the Signature Vehicle.

Since its inception, the BMW Ultimate Drive has raised over $11 million dollars for breast cancer research, education, screening and treatment programs. For more information on the event visit here.

Susan G. Komen for the Cure is the world's largest grassroots network of breast cancer survivors and activists working to spread awareness and find the cure for breast cancer. For more information on the Susan G. Komen effort visit there site here.

Come out to Checkered Flag BMW and help make a difference. It's located at 5225 Virginia Beach Blvd., Virginia Beach.

On the Road with BMW's "Mobile Missile"

"Merely approaching such a car fills you with anticipation similar to that felt by an 8-year-old on Christmas Eve."

That's how Larry Printz, auto editor of the Virginian Pilot, described the BMW M3 in today's drive section. I think he hits the nail right on the head. On several occasions, I've walked by the M3 that's sitting in the showroom at Checkered Flag BMW, and it's hard to miss...really hard. It has a presence that beckons you to come closer to see all that it has to offer.  

Here's a rundown of its high performance specs: an all new 414 hp V8 engine; rear-wheel drive; capable of zero to 60 mph in just 4.9 seconds; and top speed of 155 mph. 

Sorry, I wasn't able to dig up a link to the article, but I did put my scanning abilities to use. Click here to read what else Larry had to say about the vehicle he calls "BMW's Mobile Missile."

And if you're craving to see more of the M3, visit Checkered Flag BMW, 5225 Virginia Beach Boulevard, Virginia Beach or call (757) 490-1111, and ask to speak with the BMW sales team. Have a great weekend, Checkered Blog readers!

 

The Great Debate: Leasing vs Buying Part II

 

After standing in a line for three hours early this morning, I finally received my "I voted in the 2008 Presidential Election" sticker (which I'm proudly sporting at the moment)! Now that I've cast my vote in the election and have the sticker to prove it, it's time to weigh in on another decision: whether to lease or buy. If you tuned in yesterday, we presented the case for leasing (if you missed this post...no worries, just scroll down).

While leasing may pose attractive benefits to many consumers, it's not for everyone. For some, the buying route is a better fit. Checkered Flag BMW sales manager Mike Johnson says, "Some customers' lifestyles don't fall under the lease category. To these customers buying is the more likely option. It just really depends on your situation."

Purchase loans and leases are two different forms of automobile financing. Buying finances the purchase of the vehicle, whereas leasing finances the use of a vehicle. With buying, you're responsible for paying the entire cost of the vehicle. Typically, the buying process involves making monthly payments on the purchase loan until it's paid off. The vehicle is yours. You can keep and use the vehicle for as long as you like.

Here are some of the top reasons consumers choose to buy over lease:

"It's Mine" Factor: Buying a vehicle is a major purchasing decision, so many consider it a significant accomplishment to gain ownership. According to my dad, and many other owners I know, knowing that you've completely paid off your car is an absolutely awesome feeling. 

Limitless Mileage: With buying, the vehicle is yours to drive as much and as often as you want. Most leases have set limits on the number of miles you can drive per year. High mileage drivers will generally benefit more with purchasing vehicle.

Flexibility with options: Owning a vehicle presents you with several avenues. If you're like me and you tend to get attached to your car, you might stick with it for the long haul. If you decide you want something different, selling or trading-in are options too.

Freedom to Customize: It's your car, so you're free to customize it however you please. Paint jobs, body work and other "customizations" are all up to you. Just be sure to keep in mind the effect of customizing when it comes to resale value, if that's something you may consider in the future.

Both purchase loans and leasing offer appealing benefits to auto consumers. It's best to weigh both sides before choosing either method. If you'd like to find more about the financing options at a particular Checkered Flag dealership, call (757) 490-1111.

The Great Debate: Leasing vs Buying Part I

Here we are on the eve of a long-awaited and what will prove to be a historic election day. It seems that everyone around the nation has been on the edge of their seats waiting to cast their votes tomorrow. I'm sure we've all had our healthy dose of debates during the last couple months, but I've got one more to offer to the table. It's a debate that poses an age old question, which is better leasing or buying?

There's no clear cut answer. It depends on the individual and the situation. But like any responsible voter or in this case, purchaser, it's important to understand both sides of the issue before choosing either option.

Leases and purchase loans are two different methods of automobile financing. Leasing finances the use of a vehicle, while buying finances the purchase of a vehicle. Each has its own benefits. Today, we'll take the leasing side of the equation, and then follow-up tomorrow with buying. 

First, what exactly is leasing? When you lease, you're paying for only a portion of the vehicle's cost during a specific time period. You don't own the vehicle. Checkered Flag BMW's finance director Danene Taylor (pictured here) puts it this way, "If a  vehicle is $50,000, with leasing you wouldn't pay the full cost, but only the portion of the vehicle's value that you use up during the lease-period." At lease-end you either return the keys or purchase the vehicle for the residual value amount. 

Leasing offers several benefits that would prove to be attractive to many auto consumers. Here are some of the top reasons consumers choose to lease over buy:

Lower monthly payments: Because leasing requires payment for only a portion of the vehicle, generally your monthly payments will be lower. According to LeaseGuide.com, monthly payments through leasing can be 30%-60% lower than those for a purchase loan. Mike Johnson, Checkered Flag BMW sales manager, says leasing allows flexibility in getting monthly payments closer to what the consumer would like.

More car for less: With monthly payments being lower and more manageable, you can get more car (higher priced or more equipped) for your money. Leasing also allows you to drive a new vehicle with the latest upgrades and features every two to four years (depending on your leasing term length).

Fewer Maintenance Responsibilities: Once the manufacturer's warranty expires on a vehicle, maintenance costs become your responsibility. Since leasing terms are generally between two to four years, the vehicle's warranty will usually coincide and cover service needs within that period.

Flexibility with options: At lease-end, you're presented with several options. You can simply return the vehicle to the dealership and walk away. You could also decide to lease another vehicle, or purchase the vehicle for the residual value.

Leasing options vary between dealerships. If you'd like to find out more about leasing at a particular Checkered Flag dealership, call (757) 490-1111. Be sure to tune in tomorrow for the second half the leasing vs. buying debate.

Hurry Before It's Gone: BMW 0.9% Financing

I often drop by Checkered Flag BMW to check out the latest happenings. There's always something going on over there. During my last visit, I had a conversation with sales manager Mike Johnson. We chatted about various topics like the great debate between leasing and buying (blog post on this to still to come). Well, through our conversation,  I came to find out about the special financing offer that's currently available, 0.9% APR for all in stock 2008 BMW models through the end of October.

Mike tells me that if you're interested in owning a BMW, now is really a great time to buy. The deal is so good that "it's almost like giving away free money." And in these times, who couldn't use some extra savings?  If you've been holding off on purchasing a new vehicle because of the economy, this offer is a very good reason to purchase now.

The offer applies to 2008 models across the entire BMW lineup. Mike says at Checkered Flag they currently have thirty vehicles available with the special rate including: 1-series convertibles and coupes; 3-series sedans; 5-series sedans; 7-series sedans; X3s; and X5s.

These 2008 models are well-equipped and also come with BMW's comprehensive maintenance program. For the first four years of ownership or 50,000 miles (whichever comes first), BMW provides no-cost maintenance service. That means you pay nothing for recommended maintenance and inspections; oil and fluid services; replacement parts (brake pads, brake rotors, and wiper blade inserts); and more. See here for the full details.

The offer runs through this Friday, October 31st, so if you're interested hurry over to Checkered Flag BMW, 5225 Virginia Beach Boulevard, Virginia Beach. You can also call (757) 490-1111 and the BMW sales team will be more than happy to assist you.

Unsung Hero of Fuel Efficiency: BMW 750i

Described as a car that "sets itself apart from the rest," the BMW 750i sits at the top of the list when it comes to luxury and driving experience. As a member of the elite BMW 7-series lineup, the 750i is the "ultimate" luxury sedan.

Checkered Flag BMW's T.J. Caforio, a client advisor, showed me a very eye-catching 750Li in Michigan Blue. The 750Li is the long-wheelbase version of the standard wheelbase 750i. He tells me the main difference between the two models is that the 750Li offers about 8 inches more of rear seating space.

Both models are powered by a 4.8-liter Dual Overhead Cam V-8 engine with Valvetronic. The powerful engine produces a whopping 360 hp and 360 lb-ft of torque. So you're wondering...with all that power beating under the hood, how is it possible that 750s achieve fuel efficiency? Well, the trick is BMW's patented Valvetronic system, which allows for increased power output and fuel efficiency (basically it allows the engine to breathe easier).

The Valvetronic system is also paired with Double VANOS steplessly variable valve timing (maximizes engine response, efficiency and emission control). These two advanced technologies allow the 750i and 750Li a rating of 23 miles on the highway and 15 in the city. With a 23 gallon-sized tank, you're looking at upwards of 529 highway miles with one fill-up!

Aside from stellar power and performance, the 750s also boasts a luxurious interior. Nasca Leather upholstery covers the very comfortable seats. It's also filled with tons of technological convenience features. Some of the highlights include: memory system for driver's seat, steering wheel, and power folding outside mirrors; AM/FM stereo radio/CD audio system with 10 speakers, Radio Data System; Voice Activation system; Start/Stop button; vehicle and key memory; and more. To see the full list of goodies visit here.

Of course, there's also a healthy list of options and packages to choose from for the 750s. The cold weather package in particular will come in handy pretty soon. It adds on heated rear seats, heated steering wheel, and a ski bag. For the super technologically savvy, there's also a  night vision option. It allows you to see up to 328 yards ahead in the dark! How cool is that?

The 750s also have you protected with standard safety features including: BMW's Advanced Safety System for integrated deployment of passive and active safety features; front and rear Head Protection System (HPS); front-seat side-impact airbags; active knee protection; active front head restraints; and adaptive Brake Lights. Use the link above to see the full list.

T.J. says the 750s are standout vehicles, and I agree. Decide for yourself by seeing it in person at Checkered Flag BMW, 5225 Virginia Beach Boulevard, Virginia Beach, or call (757) 490-1111 to speak with a member of the sales team.

Unsung Heroes of Fuel Efficiency: BMW 535i

Today, we have another vehicle from BMW's 5 series lineup making our Unsung Heroes of Fuel Efficiency list, the 535i. If you recall, a couple months ago the 528i was featured for its exceptional performance, luxury and comfort (see here to read the blog post). Like its 5-series sibling, the 535i, does the same. It delivers a confidently powerful and comfortable ride without forgoing desirable efficiency.

I spoke with Ken Lamora, a client advisor at Checkered Flag BMW, and he says the 535i is great performance oriented vehicle. It's powered by a 3.0-liter (DOHC), inline turbocharged, 6-cylinder engine with twin-turbo technology, piezo direct injection, and Double-VANOS steplessly variable valve timing.

The 535i engine produces 300 hp and 300 lbs-ft of torque. It can get you from 0-60 mph in just 5.5 seconds!  Six-speed manual transmission comes standard, but Steptronic six-speed automatic transmission is offered as a no-cost option.

Even with all that power under the hood, the 535i still manages great fuel efficiency for a vehicle of its class. Rated at 26 miles on the highway and 17 in the city, it garners upwards of 468 miles with one fill-up. Its tank size is 18 gallons.

The advanced piezo direct injection technology mentioned earlier, is what helps the 535i achieve its fuel efficiency. By feeding fuel directly into each cylinder, it results in increased fuel economy, power, torque and emissions control.

The 535i also benefits from a pleasant interior and an array of standard features. Highlights include: 2-way power glass moonroof with remote; fine Leatherette upholstery; 10-way power front seats with power head restraints; 3-spoke leather-wrapped multi-function steering wheel; and more. It's also outfitted with Anti-theft AM/FM stereo/CD audio system with 10 speakers, Auto-Store, FM diversity antenna system, and MP3 capabilities. Visit here for the full list.

Ken says the 535i is equipped with safety technologies designed to protect you in the event of an accident, as well as features that help prevent ones from occurring. Aside from a protective system of airbags (driver's and passenger's front airbag supplemental restraint system; 2-stage Smart Airbags; front-seat side-impact airbags), it also comes with front- and rear-seat head protection system; Adaptive Brake Lights; and BMW Assist.

Overall, I enjoyed the 535i. It makes the grade in all the important categories: performance, safety, comfort, and of course efficiency. See the 535i in person at Checkered Flag BMW, 5225 Virginia Beach Boulevard, Virginia Beach or call (757)490-1111 for more information. 

Unsung Hero of Fuel Efficiency: BMW 335i

Happy Friday Checkered Blog readers! Once again, I'd like to start off this weekend on a great note by featuring another Unsung Hero of Fuel Efficiency, the BMW 335i. Checkered Flag BMW client advisor, Scott Weseleskey, says the 335i has received rave reviews for delivering high performance you'd expect from a sports car. It's also known to offer the reliability and safety you'd want in any vehicle.

Scott  gave me tour of a beautiful 335i sedan (starting at  $39,300) in Titanium Silver Metallic (the Blue Water Metallic another personal fave). Two other body styles are available: coupe and convertible. The 335i has a very classy and sleek appearance. It's quite the eye catcher with its "flared nostril" front end and the double grille integrated into the hood.

The 3.0-liter, inline six twin turbo engine on the 335i produces a whopping 300 hp. All that power and it still makes our list? Yes! The direct fuel injection system with advanced piezo injector technology does the trick. It feeds fuel directly into each cylinder, which means increased fuel economy, power, torque and emissions control. The direct fuel injection system also cools the engine further helping performance and efficiency.

MPG wise, the 335i is rated at 26 highway miles and 17 city. With a 16 gallon sized tank, it garners upwards of 470 highway miles on one fill-up.

Stylish good looks continue inside with Leatherette upholstery and  Dark Burl Walnut Wood interior trim.  Standard features include: 8-way power front seats with 2-way manual headrests and driver memory; 3-spoke leather-wrapped multi-function steering wheel with audio and Bluetooth phone controls; engine Start/Stop button, and more. Visit here for the full list.

Also, the Logic7 Audio System is impressive (includes anti-theft AM/FM stereo CD/MP3 player with 13 upgraded speakers and 2 subwoofers, Digital Sound Processing, Radio Data System, Auto-Store and 3-channel FM diversity antenna).

BMW designers also have you covered with a thoughtful and expansive list of safety features. Here are some highlights: Run-Flat Tires; Head Protection System (HPS); Enhanced Braking System; and a protective system of airbags. Dynamic Stability Control is another handy safety feature on the 335i. It helps keep you in control, no matter the road conditions.

Several packages and options are available for the 335i. See here for details. The cold weather package  in particular adds on retractable headlight washers, heated front seats, and split-folding rear seats and ski bag.

Performance, conveniences, and safety- the 335i delivers it all. If you're interested in seeing this Unsung Hero in person, visit Checkered Flag BMW, 5225 Virginia Beach Boulevard, Virginia Beach or call (757) 490-1111 to speak with someone from the sales team. Have a great weekend!

Unsung Hero of Fuel Efficiency: BMW X3

On this rainy Thursday, I have another great addition to our Unsung Heroes of Fuel Efficiency list, the BMW X3. This "sport activity vehicle" (SAV) puts an emphasis on BMW's trademark driving experience. It also delivers a combination of luxury, utility, and efficiency.

Checkered Flag BMW's Michael Kulp, a client advisor, showed me a Jet Black X3. The 3.0si, the lone model for the X3 (starting at $38,600), is powered by 3.0-liter dual overhead cam (DOHC), 6-cylinder engine that produces 260hp. Six-speed manual and six-speed automatic with Steptronic gearing control transmissions are offered. BMW's xDrive all-wheel drive system comes standard.

The 3.0-liter engine also has BMW's Valvetronic system, which allows for increased power output and efficiency. The X3 is rated at 24 miles on the highway and 17 miles in the city. It's 18 gallon tank can get upwards of 430 highway miles with one fill up.

I spent a few minutes circling around the X3, and it's the perfect size. Not too bulky and not too compact, just a great middle ground choice.  The X3 interior is also impressive with its finely tailored Sensatec Leatherette upholstery. It has firm yet comfortable seats for five passengers.

A Dual-glass-panel Panoramic Moonroof is also a highlight interior feature on the X3. Other standard features include: Anti-theft AM/FM stereo/CD/MP3 audio system with 8 speakers and auxiliary audio input adapter compatible with portable music players; Tilt/telescopic steering wheel column; Automatic climate control with micro-filter and air recirculation; and Vehicle & Key Memory.

The X3 is also one of the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) Top Safety Picks for 2008. It received top ratings in front, side, and rear crash tests. The xDrive system I mentioned earlier is an intelligent safety feature that adapts to changing road conditions by shifting torque if wheels start to slip. Also, driver's and passenger's front airbag supplemental restraint system (SRS) with advanced technology: dual-threshold, dual-stage deployment, and front-passenger seat sensors, front-door-mounted side-impact airbags; Automatic Differential Brake (ADB-X), and active front seat head restraints all come standard. For the full list of safety features visit here.

Several optional packages are also available for the X3. The cold weather package in particular adds heated front and rear seats. Check out the link above for details.

See this Unsung Hero in person by visiting Checkered Flag BMW, 5225 Virginia Beach Boulevard, Virginia Beach or call (757) 490-1111.