Bakersfield Life

Head out on the highway

By: Dana Martin

      The current economy fairly screams for vehicles manufactured with fuel efficiency and affordability in mind.

       But what if cost or MPG weren’t issues? What if car enthusiasts could choose anything from a sport utility vehicle to a luxury coupé with only thoughts of fuel injection and luxury amenities cruising across the Autobahn of their fantasies? 

      This month, in part two of our sneak peek at 2011 car models, Bakersfield Life gives you permission to dream.
       In this issue, you’ll find one car that gets a jaw-dropping 367 MPG and another model that claims, “It’s a muscle car, who cares?” One featured convertible offers Airscarf, a vent system that blows warm air on your neck for those brisk morning drives, and another manufacturer’s gadgets and gizmos promise the driver will feel more like a pilot when behind the wheel of their ride.
      So, car-crazy aficionados, get in, fasten your seat belt, and prepare to be astonished.  You know you were born to be wild.

Ford Mustang Shelby GT 500 Coupe

Starting price: $49,495
Chad Manning, general sales manager, Jim Burke Ford

What one feature stands out about this vehicle that is new for 2011?

This car has 550 horsepower. It’s all about the horses when it comes to Mustang!

What is your favorite feature about the car?

It is by far the least expensive 550 horsepower vehicle on the market.

How many cup holders does it have? (Yes, this is a serious consumer question!)

Two. You don’t want liquid in the vehicle—with 500 horses, the coffee will end up in your lap.

What type of consumer do you see driving this?

Those who wake in the morning, look in the mirror and proudly exclaim: “I have the need, the need for speed!”

Give us one word to describe this vehicle?

Rumbler.

What about the MPG?

It’s a muscle car, who cares! If you want MPG, buy the little brother, the 2011 Ford Mustang V6 with 305 horsepower. It gets 31 MPG.

List features this vehicle has that exhibit Ford’s desire to cater to car enthusiasts.

Brembo brakes with slotted brake dust shields and 14-inch vented disc and calipers; 3:73:1 rear axle; R-compound tires; returned front and rear springs and shocks; decklid spoiler with unique Gurney Flap; tuned stainless steel exhaust; electric power assisted steering.

List some special features or “gadgets” in this car.

A muscle car with voice-activated navigation and SYNC hands-free communication. And, you can sit at idle, rev the engine, listen to the exhaust sing its song, and feel the rumble in your chest. It doesn’t get any better than this.

Why is now a good time to purchase this vehicle?

We have one on the showroom floor. Limited production makes these babies hard to come by.

This vehicle would look great parked at:

At the starting line of the Famoso Drag Strip.

What does this car say to consumers?

“Smoke ‘em if you got ‘em … tires that is.” Or, “C’mon wussie, punch it!”

What’s the “buzz” on this vehicle?

You can send your GT500 to Shelby Automobiles, and for a mere $30,245, they will upgrade your ride with the Super Snake package that will give you 800 horsepower.

Fill in the blank:

If you liked the Mustang Shelby in the 1970s or 1980s, you’ll like this Mustang Shelby.

BMW 5-series

Starting price: $44,550
Aaron Miller, client advisor, BMW of Bakersfield

What is your favorite feature about the car?

I love all the different power-train options available. BMW has offered three different engines from an all-new inline 6 in the 528i, to a heart-pounding twin turbo V8 in the 550i. They also offer three different transmissions: 2 different 8-speed automatics and a 6-speed manual, which you really don’t find in the midsize luxury segment.

How many cup holders does it have?

It has four - - two in front and two in back.

List a few special features or gadgets it has.

Side and top-view cameras, infrared night vision with pedestrian detection, lane departure warning, and parallel parking assist, just to name a few.

What type of consumer do you see driving this?

The greatest thing about the 5-series to me is that a lot of people can drive it. It’s not the huge flagship 7-series sedan typically seen driven by the more, shall I say, “mature” crowd. On the other hand, it’s not a small, youth-oriented 3-series sedan. I’ve already had friends of mine in their 20s expressing to me how much they want the new 5-series and how hot of a car it is. And just the same, my 64-year-old dad loves it. It fits in that perfect middle ground that transcends generations.

List features this vehicle has that exhibit BMW’s desire to cater to car enthusiasts.

All models have an optional sports package, as well as an impressive handling package, which allows the driver to adjust suspension and driving (steering, throttle, traction) settings from a cloud-like “comfort” mode, through normal, sport and an invigorating sport mode – all at the touch of a button.

This vehicle would look great parked at:

I think it would look great parked in my garage, but seriously, I can picture it being valet parked right in front of the Padre Hotel, or maybe at the clubhouse in Seven Oaks Country Club.

If this car could talk, what would it say to its owner?

“C’mon, you know I’m exciting to drive. I see you woke up earlier than normal to come see me in the garage. I’ve also seen the way you look at me, and I can tell from your heartbeat how much you enjoy putting your right foot down when you drive me.”

What’s the “buzz” on this vehicle?

 The main points that everyone makes about the new 5-series are how great the styling is, how smooth the car drives, and how impressive the power feels.

Infiniti QX56

Starting price: $57,575
Richard Romero, general sales manager, Infiniti of Bakersfield

What one feature stands out about this vehicle that is new for 2011?

The all-new styling! The QX56 stands out in a crowd and brings a breath of fresh air to this segment.

What is your favorite feature?

My favorite feature is the Around View™ Monitor, which adds a 360® view of the vehicle’s surroundings. Having a back-up camera is helpful, but when you add four cameras on each side of the vehicle that give you the ability to see your surroundings, you are less likely to have those small accidents when parking. We have all had those moments!

 

 

How many cup holders does it have?

Nine cup holders and four bottle holders.

 

 

What type of consumer do you see driving this?

I see a stylish, family-oriented consumer who is looking for room for the family but not willing to sacrifice individualism. The QX56 is the perfect Gen-X vehicle.

Give us one word to describe this vehicle?

Hip

What about the MPG?

14 city, 20 highway

List features this vehicle has that exhibit Infiniti’s desire to cater to car enthusiasts.

The interior includes a 13-speaker premium Bose audio system, navigation, XM Satellite Radio with NavTraffic and NavWeather, and a beautifully designed dash. Along with comfort, the QX56 owners also receive excellent power under the hood. There are 400 horsepower and 413 pound-foot of torque, which gives towers 8,500 pounds of towing capability.

Why is now a good time to purchase this vehicle?

Because of the limited production, which will give our drivers a distinction that not too many brands can offer. Who doesn’t want to have a unique vehicle that separates them from the rest of the pack? I know I would

This vehicle would look great parked at:

The Marketplac

What does this car say to consumers?

The QX56 parked in your garage would say, “Wherever we go, all eyes are on us. So get off your recliner and let’s go!”

What’s the “buzz” on this vehicle?

The all-new body styling of the QX56. The new look is rugged yet stylish. When driving this vehicle, you want to be noticed because of the looks, but you still need the ability to use the vehicle for towing all the toys you may have.

Fill in the blank:

If you liked the Chevy Suburban in the 1970s or 1980s, you’ll like this QX56.

Mercedes-Benz E-Class Cabriolet

Starting price: $56,850
Jim Whelden, training manager, Sangera Automotive Group Mercedes-Benz of Bakersfield

What one feature stands out about this vehicle that is new for 2011?

The Aircap system that eliminates drafts when driving with the top down and allows for normal conversation volumes at highway speeds.

What is your favorite feature about the car?

The top can be raised or lowered remotely.
How many cup holders does it have?

Four

What type of consumer do you see driving this?

A person who values the ultimate in style as much as the ultimate in quality.

How would you describe this vehicle?

Another timeless classic from Mercedes-Benz.

What about the MPG?

26 MPG highway

List features this vehicle has that exhibit the manufacturer’s desire to cater to car enthusiasts.

A 7-speed automatic, up to 382 horsepower, an adaptive suspension for superlative handling, and the full array of Mercedes-Benz safety innovations, including pop-up roll bars.

List some special features or “gadgets” in this car.

Aircap and Airscarf (it directs warm air to the back of your neck in relation to road speed), and the top can be raised or lowered while driving up to 25 MPH.

Why is now a good time to purchase this vehicle?

Because you deserve it. It’s time for you to enjoy owning an exhilarating classic Mercedes-Benz.

This vehicle would look great parked at:

It will truly stand out in any location.

What does this car say to consumers?

“Let’s go relish life!”

What’s the “buzz” on this vehicle?

Owners are continually impressed with the overall quality and attention to detail.

What advice would you give to a buyer of an E-Class Cabriolet?

Prepare to be envied.

Lexus IS250 ‘F’ Sport Package

Starting price: $40,190

John Pitre, general manager, Motor City Lexus of Bakersfield

What is your favorite feature about the car?

The sports seats and steering wheel. This is the closest setup to a race car you will find with license plates.

What one feature stands out about this vehicle that is new for 2011?

The refreshed styling brought over from the ISF model that includes a new spoiler on the rear deck lid, new side styling, new front bumper and air dam and revised seating with leather and suede inserts.

How many cup holders does it have?

There are cup holders for all passengers, front and rear, and one for the driver, but I don’t recommend using them while driving fast — you could be wearing them.

What type of consumer do you see driving this?

The target audience is a driver who wants a refined sports car that he/she can take three friends in. The driver is the focus of this car — which is slightly lower and more stiffly sprung than the standard car — so you will feel like a part of the car, or the car will feel like an extension of you.

What about the MPG?

The SPG (Smiles Per Gallon) is the highest in the industry. (MPG is 28 on the highway.

List features this vehicle has that exhibit the manufacturer’s desire to cater to car enthusiasts.

The sports car comes out in the new 18-inch wheel design with gray powder coating, the suede seat inserts and suede steering wheel with paddle shifted 6-speed transmissions. If you need more, you can upgrade to the 405 horsepower ISF version, too.

List some special features or “gadgets” in this car.

The paddle shifters on the steering wheel and the 6-speed automatic keep the driver involved (if you want to be), allowing smooth up and downshifts without lifting off the throttle. The direct in ejected gasoline engines put out huge horsepower while giving exceptional fuel economy, too

What does this car say to consumers?

“I appreciate quality, style and dependability, and I can’t wait all day for you to get out of my way. Move over 3-series, there is a new bad boy in town!”

What’s the “buzz” on this vehicle?

The most common statement about this model we hear is, “Can you take it out to the race track on weekends?”

Where can I get a 2011 Lexus IS250?

The newest automotive facility in Kern County is Motor City Lexus, complete with all the luxury appointments (snack bar, theater, kids’ game room, and NASCAR style shop).

Jeep Grand Cherokee

Starting price: $37,220
Joseph Mays, sales associate, Bakersfield Chrysler Jeep

What one feature stands out about this vehicle that is new for 2011?

3.6 V6 Pentastar (better fuel mileage, more horsepower, and more torque)

What is your favorite feature about the car?

Styling …  and the temperature-controlled brake system.

How many cup holders does it have?

Four cup holders, plus an additional bottle holder.

What type of consumer do you see driving this?

Educated, adventurous, young, sporty and fun.

How would you describe this vehicle?

Fun, sporty, practical and capable.

What about the MPG?

16 city and 22 highway

List features this vehicle has that exhibit the manufacturer’s desire to cater to car enthusiasts.

The Jeep Grand Cherokee has elegant interior soft features like hands-free navigation and dual power-heated seats.

List some special features or “gadgets” in this car.

Rear camera, DVD player, navigation, dual heated-power seats and lumbar for the driver and passenger, and a moon roof.

Why is now a good time to purchase this vehicle?

Why Wait? Here is all the cha cha for a good price.

This vehicle would look great parked at:

The bluffs park, overlooking the Kern River on Panorama Drive.

What does this car say to consumers?

“After we pick up the kids from school, can we go climb that mountain over there?”

What’s the “buzz” on this vehicle?

Consumers are loving the new body style.

Fill in the blank:

If you liked the Bronco in the 1970s or 1980s, you’ll like this Jeep Grand Cherokee.

Honda Accord EX-L

Starting price: $32,380
Deshun Henry, sales manager, Barber Honda

What one feature stands out about this vehicle that is new for 2011?

Driver side power memory seat.

What is your favorite feature about the car?

The power produced from the V6 engine makes the car fun and safe to drive. It allows you to pass and get on the freeway easily, as well as maintain good fuel economy.

How many cup holders does it have?

Four cup holders.

What type of consumer do you see driving this?

I see the Honda Accord as the right choice for consumers of all ages, who enjoy a sporty feel with luxury and safety as equal priorities.

Give us one word to describe this vehicle.

Affordable!

What about the MPG?

20 MPG city, 30 MPG highway, and an average of 24 MPG

List features this vehicle has that exhibit Honda’s desire to cater to car enthusiasts.

271 horsepower, rear multi-link suspension, and variable gear ratio. With 271 horsepower, car enthusiasts will enjoy the acceleration and on demand power. The variable gear ratio will provide the driver with better acceleration when climbing hills like the Grapevine; the rear multi-link suspension smoothes the ride when in performance situations. Combining these features makes the driver feel more like a pilot than a driver.

List some special features or “gadgets” in this car.

Power memory seats, navigation, rear backup camera, rear air conditioning vents, and MP3 auxiliary input jack.

Why is now a good time to purchase this vehicle?

Now is the best time because Honda has responded to what consumers have been asking for in its flagship vehicle with features customers expect when they purchase a vehicle in this price range.

This vehicle would look great parked at:

Your home’s driveway!

What does this car say to consumers?

“Let’s go! The coast is calling.”

What’s the “buzz” on this vehicle?

People are responding to the aggressive style with attention to comfort and convenience, detail.

Fill in the blank:

If you liked the BMW 5-series in the 1970s or 1980s, you’ll like this Honda Accord.

Nissan Leaf

Starting price: $32,780 (or $20,280 -- after a $7,500 federal and a $5,000 California tax credit)
Seven Bates, internet sales manager, Nissan of Bakersfield

What one feature stands out about this vehicle that is new for 2011?

A long-range electric engine that actually has a lot of power and doesn’t run on gasoline. (That’s kind of a big deal.) 

What is your favorite feature about the car?

The smartphone app that lets me choose to charge the car only during off-peak times to keep my PG&E bill down.

How many cup holders does it have?

Four cup holders.

What type of consumer do you see driving this?

People who like a bargain. An electric vehicle will encourage some buyers seeking zero-emission driving, but the virtually non-existent maintenance needs combined with the low cost of charging make it a frugal choice. This is an excellent vehicle for anyone looking to save serious money in this economy.

Give us a word or two to describe this vehicle.

How about “brilliant” and “finally?”

What about the MPG?

367 MPG

List features this vehicle has that exhibit Nissan’s desire to cater to car enthusiasts.

210 foot- pounds of immediate torque. The Leaf provides 100 percent of its torque the moment you push your foot on the pedal. It’s very quick.

List some special features or “gadgets” in this car.

Nissan’s Leaf web-service provides you with an always-connected uplink with real-time navigation, analysis of range, availability of charging stations, and driving efficiency. The smartphone app provides additional features like remotely activating the A/C and cooling your car in the Bakersfield heat or checking the charge from the built-in solar panel.

Why is now a good time to purchase this vehicle?

Because it’s a real car and not a toy.  Gas prices are skyrocketing, and electric charging stations are exploding across California.

This vehicle would look great parked at:

A gas station. With the owner inside the store purchasing snacks with the money he saved.

What does this car say to consumers?
“Zero emissions. Zero hassle. Zero to 60 in under 6 seconds. Welcome to the future.”
Audi S4
Starting price: $46,600

Justin Unruh, general manager, Bakersfield Audi
What is your favorite feature about this car?
Would have to be the S Line Seats. The seats are designed by an orthopedic surgeon and hug your body. You almost don’t want to get out of the car. Plus, they just look great. Not only are they standard 8-way power, but the 4-way lumbar is great as well.

How many cup holders does it have?
Eight, four in the front and four in the back.

What are some of the car's special features or “gadgets”?
LED tail lights; Xenon head lights with LED daytime running lights; Audi parking system with rearview camera; Audi side assist; three spoke sport, multifunction, leather wrapped steering wheel with controls for audio volume; Bluetooth phone audio and seek functions; shift paddles on steering wheel; and rain sensor for automatic windshield wipers.

What type of consumer do you see driving this?
The S4 is for the consumer who demands a little more than basic transportation from their automobile. However, not only can the family fit in the vehicle if needed, you can also enjoy a driving experience that no other vehicle can offer for this value. What other car on the market can offer luxury, style, sophistication, practicality and a car you can take to the track on the weekend to escape it all?

What does this vehicle have that reflects Audi's desire to cater to car enthusiasts?
Standard Quattro AWD! Five link front suspension, a 3.0T super-charged V6 that puts out 333 horsepower and 325 foot-pounds of torque. An optional 7-speed S-Tronic dual clutch automatic transmission. Audi Drive Select, which allows the driver to adjust to his or her driving style the steering, transmission shift characteristics and engine response.

This vehicle would look great parked at:
Anywhere! Every time I see an S4, there are always people talking about the car commenting on how awesome it is.

If this car would talk, what would it say to its owner?
“Gas is on the right and brake is on the left, press as hard as you want. My job is to make the gas pedal, brake pedal, steering wheel and gear shifter all become an extension of your senses, and you and I will become one piece of engineering sophistication!”

What is the “buzz” on this vehicle?
I think the whole Audi brand in general is experiencing a buzz around Bakersfield. The styling and all the awards the brand is winning are generating brand awareness. I also think consumers like the fact that they now have options when it comes to a luxury brand in Bakersfield.