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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.

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.

Unsung Hero of Fuel Efficiency: BMW 328i

The other day I made a trip to MacArthur Shopping Center, and as I happily headed towards the exit (with shopping bags in tow), I was quickly stopped in my tracks with sight of the BMW 328i that's on display there. What a coincidence?! It just so happens that this BMW was next on my Unsung Hero list. After a few minutes of ogling the 328i, (and snapping a photo to post below) I walked away wanting to find out more.

I headed to Checkered Flag BMW where Dave Lindsey, Jr., a client advisor, gave me a very informative tour of the 328i. This popular 3-Series BMW comes in four body styles: sedan (starting at $32,700), coupe, wagon and convertible. The 328i is powered by a 3.0-liter inline-6-cylinder that produces 230 hp and 200 lb-ft of torque. Dave says the rear-wheel drive 328i's near perfect 49/51 weight distribution gives it BMW's signature driving feel.

For a vehicle of its class that generates so much power, the 328i has great mpg. Dave says that people find it hard to believe that a 6-cylinder BMW does so well with fuel economy, but it does. Equipped on the 328i is BMW's patented Valvetronic system, which allows for increased power output and efficiency. It gets 28 highway miles and 18 city. Its tank size is 16 gallons and will get around 450 miles.

Outside, the 328i has an appealing classic look. It's what caught my attention in the first place when I encountered it at MacArthur Shopping Center. The classy look continued inside. With its leatherette upholstery and Dark Burl Walnut Wood interior trim, the 328i interior is very warm and inviting. Dave says BMW offers sort of an "a la carte" of interior options where you can pick and choose from several interior fabrics and wood trims. Standout comfort/convenience features include: Comfort Access (keyless access that allows you to unlock the doors just by touching the door handle as long as you're carrying the key); engine start/stop button; active cruise control; and BMW Ambiance interior lighting along doors and rear sides. Also included on the 328i is an  Anti-theft AM/FM stereo CD/MP3 player audio system with 10 speakers and two subwoofers. 

It's hard to not feel safe in the 328i because of all its standard safety features. A full list can be found on the BMW website, but here are a few I wanted to highlight: seat-mounted front side-impact airbags; programmable daytime running lights; anti-lock braking system (ABS); dynamic stability control; and front and rear head protection system (HPS). Dave also told me about the Run-Flat tires that come on the 328i. Getting a flat tire can happen at the worst times, but with these special self-supporting tires you'll be more than prepared. Even with a loss of air pressure, Run-Flat tires will allow you to drive with a flat for up to 150 miles, so you can get yourself to a safe location.

The 328i is a very versatile vehicle that attracts a wide range of drivers. It is a family friendly car, but Dave says it attracts young drivers too. Customers recognize its value based on the performance, luxury, and reliability it offers. Dave and I both suggest seeing the 328i in person at Checkered Flag BMW, 5225 Virginia Beach Boulevard, Virginia Beach or call (757) 490-1111 for more information.

"Growing Technicians" at Checkered Flag BMW

If you have ever taken your car for service at Checkered Flag BMW, you may have noticed some fresh young faces working alongside seasoned technicians. My curiosity lead me to Roger Smith, the shop supervisor there, and he says the young faces belong to his Automotive Youth Educational Systems (AYES) interns. Roger tells me that AYES is a partnership between automotive manufacturers, various dealerships, and selected high schools/technical prep schools. The program (which is found in 45 states) encourages young students to consider careers in the retail automotive service. Careers in the automotive industry can be very rewarding. Technicians have the potential to make six figures! Checkered Flag fully understands the benefits of an automotive career, and throughout its dealerships has been very supportive of this program. 

Roger says their program at Checkered Flag BMW has been successful because they have been fortunate in having great relationships with the participating schools, particularly Virginia Beach Public Schools/Virginia Beach Vo-Tech. "The instructor interacts with students in the classroom, and he knows what we need at the dealership, so he recommends students he thinks are qualified to meet our need." From there, the recommended student goes through an interview process with Roger. If all goes well, then the student is invited to become an AYES intern.

Typically, the student starts his/her internship full-time during the summer between junior and senior year. Along with the in class instruction they receive at Vo-Tech, the student is paired with a senior technician mentor at the dealership. Roger says, "With a mentor the student learns the proper ways of doing things, how to use equipment, how to diagnose a vehicle, and also the practical skills like completing service paperwork." Jason Fabek, a mentor who has participated in the program for 9 years says, "It is a good program that works as long as the kids come in with the right attitude." His intern Josh Conde, who started working with Jason earlier this May, tells me that he has learned a lot since then. "I enjoy working here, and hopefully after graduation I can go to automotive school, and then continue with BMW."

After the interns graduate high school and they receive AYES certification, they are well-prepared for entry-level positions or continued education in advanced automotive technology. Many of the dealerships that participate in AYES will sponsor their interns in manufacturer-college-level programs. BMW offers the Service Technician Education Program (STEP) to the top graduates of the best post secondary automotive technical schools in the country. Roger says that upon completing automotive technical school, AYES interns then have the opportunity to apply to STEP and if accepted, BMW covers tuition costs.

Dealerships look to attract and hire the best technicians, and Roger says the AYES program is a great way to "grow technicians" in house. "It is an excellent program. I enjoy seeing young techs develop and do well. It is almost like watching your own kids grow."

To learn more about the AYES program or to read about intern success stories at Checkered Flag BMW visit here. 

Boggled by the X6?

What is the new BMW X6?  Is it a coupe?  Is it a SUV?  Is it a sports car?  Is it a truck?  Or is it a hybrid of all those things?

BMW calls it a SAV Coupe, but let's see what Christine has to say...

Unsung Hero: BMW 128i

Does anyone else feel like the week has flown by? I sure do, and now here we are on beautiful Friday with the weekend in sight! We have been fortunate the past few days with gorgeous summer weather in Hampton Roads (well, it would be even better if that smoke cleared out completely, right?) With the amazing weather, I have noticed more convertibles with their tops down. I have never driven a convertible, so my curiosity brought me to Checkered Flag BMW yesterday, where I found the perfect summer car, the BMW 128i. Not only is it one beautiful vehicle, but the 128i also makes our Unsung Hero of Fuel Efficiency list.

The 128i is part of the 1-series and is considered to be the modern version of the legendary BMW 2002 (pictured below) of the late 1960s and mid 1970s. The 2002 introduced American drivers to the concept of the "sports sedan". Forty years later BMW does it again by introducing the 128i, which delivers sports car performance with all the sedan comforts. This "throwback" is available in two body styles: convertible or coupe (personally, I am fond of the convertible).

Scott Weseleskey (pictured here with the 128i), a client advisor at Checkered Flag BMW, described the 128i as "pure BMW from the ground up." It is a entry level (starting at $28,600 plus destination and handling) compact  rear-wheel drive, and at about 3,300 lbs is lighter than its 3-series siblings. The 128i shares the same powertrains as the ones on the 3-series models. It is powered by a 230-hp, 3.0-liter inline-six with 200 pound-feet of torque. Scott, as a BMW driver himself, says owning a BMW is the ultimate driving experience. From its superior handling and performance, to its dedication to quality, BMWs are simply joys to drive. The 128i is perfectly balanced with 50-50 front and back wheels distribution.

Scott also says the 128i has remarkable fuel efficiency for a vehicle in its class. Paired with its strong engine, the 128i also has 6-speed STEPTRONIC with paddle shifters that is designed to adapt to every driver improving gear shifting and reducing fuel consumption. The patented Valvetronic system is also found on the 128i, which allows for increased power output and fuel efficiency. Scott says with all of that technology integrated together, you will get good gas mileage. The 128i gets 18 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway. Its tank size is 14 gallons and will get about 400 highway miles. 

Outside, the 128i is a real beauty with its chrome-plated exhaust tips, chrome-line exterior trim, and gray-band windshield. It also has halogen free-form front fog lights; heated dual power mirrors; and heated windshield washer jets. The convertible has a fully lined power-folding automatic soft top with heated glass rear window.Inside, the 128i is cozy and intimate. It has many of the comforts that you would expect from a BMW including: Anti-theft AM/FM stereo CD/MP3 player audio system with 10 speakers; Radio Data System (RDS); audio input for portable music players; 8-way adjustable front seats with 2-way headrests; manual height adjustment for front passenger seat; leatherette upholstery; high-gloss black trim; and 3-spoke leather-wrapped multi-function sport steering wheel with audio.

The 128i is also feature-rich when it comes to safety and security. Anti-lock braking system (ABS); Adaptive Brake Lights; Rollover Protection System Driver and passenger front airbag supplemental restraint system (SRS); front-seat-mounted side-impact airbags; interlocking door anchoring system; and central locking system with center console switch are just a few of the safety features on the 128i. For a full list visit here.

There is so much to talk about when it comes to the 128i! I got so excited about this car that I went to the BMW website, and for kicks I utilized the Build your Own feature. There you can customize your perfect 128i or any of the other BMW models. My virtual 128i was in the Blue Water Metallic, but you can chose from several different exterior colors. Try it out for yourself, here. I suggest also stopping by at Checkered Flag BMW, 5225 Virginia Beach Boulevard, Virginia Beach to see the 128i in person or call (757) 490-1111 for more information. Have a wonderful weekend!

Meet Checkered Flag BMW's Todd Hartje

The Checkered Blog would like to welcome Todd Hartje and family to Checkered Flag! Todd comes aboard as the Service and Parts Director at Checkered Flag BMW. Although he is only relatively new to Hampton Roads, (he arrived in early February) Todd has a long standing history with the BMW brand. Todd started as a technician in 1984, moved up to shop foreman, then service manager, and finally to the position he currently holds. He knows BMWs inside and out and is a perfect fit for Checkered Flag BMW.

Despite only being in town for about 4 months, Todd has already created quite a name for himself among the staff at Checkered Flag BMW. Has anyone else noticed the wacky weather these last couple months? Several people at Checkered Flag BMW think they know the cause. The peculiar weather appeared around the same time as "Tornado Todd" (as he is affectionately called) landed in Hampton Roads.

Though Todd worked and lived in Kansas City, Missouri prior to moving to Virginia Beach, he maintains that he did not bring the weather with him from the Midwest. Todd plans on living in Virginia Beach with his wife and sons, ages 15 and 10, who are making the big move this week. Congratulations and best of luck, Todd!

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

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

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!"