Archive by Author
Black Friday Car Shopping in Tempe
November 25, 2011 by AcuraLuxury, under Dealership Specials.
Photo: 2012 Acura TSX
Most people head on out Black Friday to catch deals on electronics and toys, but Black Friday is also considered the best day of year to buy a car, according to calculations made by automotive website TrueCar.com.
Based on sales data from the last 10 years and current market conditions, TrueCar estimates consumers can save as much as 29% off a new 2011 or 2012 car on Black Friday, with an average discount of 9.5%.
“It’s unusual for consumers to think about car shopping during Black Friday but they can expect some of the biggest discounts of the entire year if they were to buy a car that day,” said Jesse Toprak, VP of Industry Trends and Insights for TrueCar.com. “It’s the end of the month, almost the end of the year, manufacturer incentives are at their peak, and dealers are motivated to move units to reach their objectives. Plus, dealers are typically not busy on Black Friday. It’s the perfect storm for car buying.”
If you already made plans to spend Black Friday in a shopping mall instead of a dealership, don’t worry – the first two weeks in December still remain a good time for car deals. You’ll still find big discounts on 2011 models with plenty of choices on color in options. Later in December will be slim pickings, however, as most dealerships have already moved their inventory to make room for the 2012 models.
At Acura of Tempe, you can find amazing finance specials on all our 2011 and 2012 Acura models, including 0.9% APR and lease specials as low as $299 per month.
Stop by Acura of Tempe in the Tempe Autoplex to catch these amazing holiday deals while they last!
Acura of Tempe
7800 S. Autoplex Loop
Tempe, AZ 85284
No Comments
Acura of Tempe Announcement: Get the AcuraLink Roadside Assistance App for iPhone!
November 22, 2011 by AcuraLuxury, under Acura Technology.
In an accident? Have a flat tire? Locked out of your Acura? Use Acura’s new iPhone app to get you out of these sticky situations and more.
Acura has just announced it will launch a new AcuraLink Owner’s Mobile App for iPhone that will support Acura’s Roadside Assistance Program. Acura owners can now conveniently access a wide range of roadside assistance service simply through their iPhone.
The free app, produced with Acura’s roadside assistance partner, Cross Country Automotive Services (Cross Country), offers Acura of Tempe customers access to a full range of service options available through the sign-and-drive Acura program. Services include items such as comprehensive towing, lock-out assistance, battery jump-start, tire change and fuel delivery.
Acura of Tempe customers can use the AcuraLink Roadside Assistance app to view scheduled time of arrival and contact information for the dispatched towing service provider, as well as an assigned reference number for the roadside disablement event. The app also offers a priority emergency button for urgent situations.
“Roadside Assistance is now available at the push of a button with this user friendly application. This is another example of the flexibility, speed and expertise Acura clients have come to expect from our products, services and our brand,” said Charles Kendig, Acura Division’s Assistant Vice President for National Fixed Operations.
Acura owners can use the iPhone app to reach an experienced roadside assistance agent to dispatch a reliable roadside assistance service provider: 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
“Acura owners highly value design and engineering innovations within their vehicles, and Cross Country is excited to provide technology that enables Acura owners to easily obtain dependable roadside assistance service and related information when they need it,” said David Ferrick, Cross Country’s senior vice president and general manager of Insurance Services and Automotive Markets.
The AcuraLink Owner’s App is available for download at the App Store or through Acura.com here.
No Comments
Thanksgiving in the Valley: Top Things to Do
November 18, 2011 by AcuraLuxury, under Events.
Looking for something fun to do on Thanksgiving Day near Tempe? We’ve got five great ideas for getting off the couch and working off that turkey coma.
Tempe Turkey Trot
Start Thanksgiving Day on the right foot by doing something healthy and fun to counteract the hours of eating and watching football you’re about to do. Sign up for a Turkey Trot near Tempe, such as the Mesa Turkey Trot or the Turkey Day 5K in downtown Phoenix.
Boat Tempe Town Lake
Don’t want to get up that early on Thanksgiving Day? Work up an appetite right before the grub-fest with a leisurely paddle boat or kayak trip around Tempe Town Lake. Tempe Town Lake Boat Rentals is open from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Thanksgiving Day.
Black Friday Shopping in Greater Phoenix
Most stores are closed Thanksgiving Day, but many open during special hours Thanksgiving night and early the next morning for Black Friday shopping. Check out this link from Phoenix.About.com, which lists what stores open early for Black Friday shopping in the Phoenix area.
Holiday Lights on Thanksgiving Night
Get in the mood for Christmas by touring the holiday light displays near Tempe. Several towns display their holiday light shows on Thanksgiving night, including Temple Gardens Christmas Lights in Mesa, the Arizona Celebration of Lights in Glendale, and ZooLights at the Phoenix Zoo.
Arizona International Auto Show
Check out hundreds of the latest 2012-model year vehicles on display at the 2011 Arizona International Auto Show at the Phoenix Convention Center. The three-day Phoenix auto show opens Thanksgiving Day at 9 a.m. and remains open until 7 p.m. – plenty of time to see your favorite automakers showcasing the hottest 2012 models about to hit dealerships, including right here at Acura of Tempe.
No Comments
Acura of Tempe Fall Service Special!
November 17, 2011 by AcuraLuxury, under Acura Service.
Acura of Tempe is offering an amazing Fall Service Special to ensure your car is running great well into the winter!
For one low price of $79.95, Acura of Tempe’s Fall Service Special includes:
Oil & Filer Change
Tire Rotation & Pressure Check
Multi-Point Inspection
Cabin & Engine Air Filter Inspection
Wiper Blade Insert or Replacement
Fluid Top-Off
Car Wash & Vacuum
*Plus* 10%-off any additional recommended work!
Don’t wait. Schedule your appointment today at Acura of Tempe’s Service Center and request the Fall Service Special! (888) 690-8375.
No Comments
New 2012 Integra Motorcycle Unveiled at EICMA Show
November 14, 2011 by AcuraLuxury, under Acura Integra, Acura Rumors.
Photo: 2012 Intregra Motorcycle
For months rumors have been swirling that Acura will launch a new Integra model. Now we can officially announce the rumors have proven true — only, not exactly in the way most people were hoping.
Acura won’t be rolling out a new performance two-door sports car anytime soon. Instead, Honda Motorcycles has stunned the world by debuting a new two-wheeled Integra model at this year’s EICMA show.
The Integra motorcycle is Honda’s attempt to meld the motorcycle and scooter worlds by offering plenty of performance, great fuel economy and superior accessibility thanks to its feet-forward riding position.
“The result is a unique and desirable modern machine, conceived to deliver a totally engaging riding experience while benefiting from the environmental and safety technologies customers expect of a 21st century vehicle,” Honda said in a statement.
The 2012 Integra motorcycle will come in four colors, including the purple-looking hue pictured above, which interestingly looks like the Acura NSX pictured on-set at The Avengers.
While a new Acura Integra hatch won’t be debuting any time soon, you can satiate your need for speed with the 2012 Acura RL or 2012 Acura TL at Acura of Tempe.
Acura of Tempe
7800 S. Autoplex Loop
Tempe, AZ 85284
No Comments
IIHS Ranks the Best Booster Car Seats for Kids
November 8, 2011 by AcuraLuxury, under Acura Safety Features.
Looking for a good child booster seat? The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety just released its list of the best child booster car seats in terms of which ones provide the best seat belt fit, and which ones don’t — a key factor in protecting your child from harm.
IIHS is best known for its coveted Top Safety Pick vehicle awards, but it also rates the safety of child booster car seats, giving top scorers BEST BET status. IIHS is the only organization that tells parents which booster seats correctly position a vehicle safety belt for good lap and shoulder belt fit.
Booster seats are an important but often overlooked step for children who have outgrown a forward-facing child-safety seat because they elevate a child who is still too small to be correctly fitted by the adult-sized seat belt. A booster seat helps route the seat belt across the child’s chest and lap to give them the best protection in a crash.
“A record 31 seats have been designated BEST BETS, meaning they correctly position a vehicle safety belt on a typical 4 to 8 year-old in almost any car, minivan, or SUV,” says the IIHS. Prices for these top-rated child booster seats range from less than $15 to several hundred dollars.
Five booster seats are Good Bets for having acceptable belt fit. The IIHS does not recommend six booster seats because with them, seat belts don’t fit properly.
Among booster manufacturers, Harmony Juvenile Products continues to be a standout. All 5 seats the Canadian company currently makes, counting the Dreamtime in both modes, are BEST BETS.
Check out which booster seats made the cut below, or click here for a full list of model numbers and pictures.
Looking for a family car? Acura of Tempe has wide variety of family-friendly models, including the Acura TSX (named “Best Upscale Car for Families” by U.S. News) and the family-friendly Acura RDX and Acura MDX.
2011 IIHS BOOSTER EVALUATION RESULTS
Best Bets
Britax Frontier 85 SICT
Britax Parkway SGL (high-back mode)
BubbleBum
Chicco KeyFit Strada (high-back mode)
Clek Oobr (high-back mode)
Cosco Pronto (high-back mode)
Cybex Solution X-Fix
Diono/Sunshine Kids Monterey (high-back mode)
Eddie Bauer Auto Booster (high-back mode)
Evenflo Big Kid Amp
Evenflo Big Kid Sport (backless mode)
Evenflo Maestro
Evenflo Symphony 65 e3
Ferrari Dreamway SP (high-back mode)
Graco Argos 70 (high-back mode)
Graco TurboBooster – Baldwin (high-back mode)
Graco TurboBooster Elite (high-back mode)
Harmony Cruz Youth Booster/Harmony Carpooler
Harmony Dreamtime (backless mode)
Harmony Dreamtime (high-back mode)
Harmony Olympian/Secure Comfort Deluxe
Harmony Youth Booster Seat
Kids Embrace Dale Earnhardt Jr.
Maxi-Cosi Rodi XR (high-back mode)
Recaro ProBooster
Recaro ProSport
Recaro Vivo
Safety 1st Boost Air Protect (high-back mode)
Safety 1st S1 Rümi Air
The First Years B570 Pathway
Good Bets
Britax Parkway SG (high-back mode)
Combi Kobuk Air Thru (backless mode)
Combi Kobuk Air Thru (high-back mode)
Evenflo Symphony 65
Maxi-Cosi Rodi (high-back mode)
NOT RECOMMENDED
Evenflo Chase
Evenflo Express
Evenflo Generations 65
Evenflo Sightseer
Safety 1st All-in-One
Safety 1st Alpha Omega Elite
No Comments
Acura of Tempe Exclusive Video – 2012 Acura TSX – Special Edition Package
November 5, 2011 by AcuraLuxury, under Acura TSX, Videos.
The TSX Sport Sedan utilizes 201 hp, 4-cylinder engine available as a 5 speed automatic transmission or a 6 speed manual transmission. This special edition package gives this luxury sedan upgraded interior and exterior features to provide a unique and sporty look. It is available in four different colors, with underbody spoilers, Special Edition badging and darker 17″ alloy wheels. The interior has leather seats with suede-like inserts, custom red stitching, red lighting, and aluminum pedal covers.
To schedule a test drive or for more information, contact us at 877-280-7706 or visit us at http://acuraoftempe.com
No Comments
2011 Arizona International Auto Show Comes Nov. 24-27
October 31, 2011 by AcuraLuxury, under Acura Models, Events.
Photo: 2012 Acura TL
Acura of Tempe is gearing up for the 2011 Arizona International Auto Show, taking place Thanksgiving weekend at the Phoenix Convention Center.
Hundreds of the latest 2012-model year vehicles will be on display at the Phoenix Convention Center November 24-27, including brand-new 2012 Acura models already on sale at Acura of Tempe, and 2012 models yet to arrive at our Tempe Acura dealership. Acura representatives will be on-site to answer questions and provide information on these new models.
This exciting Arizona automotive event will offer an up-close look at the newest cars, crossovers, trucks, hybrid vehicles and more, as well as offer visitors the chance to get behind the wheel and test drive several hot new rides. From high-end sports cars to interactive family entertainment, the Arizona International Auto Show offers something for everyone.
2011 Arizona International Auto Show Information
When:
Thursday, November 24, 9 a.m. – 7 p.m.
Friday, November 25, 9 a.m. – 9 p.m.
Saturday, November, 26 9 a.m. – 9 p.m.
Sunday, November 27, 9 a.m. – 7 p.m.
Where:
Phoenix Convention Center
100 North Third St.
Phoenix, AZ 85004
Tickets:
Admission to the Arizona International Auto Show is $10 for adults; $6 for seniors (62 and older), military (with ID), students (under 21 with ID) and children 7-12; and free for children 6 and younger. Discount coupons and advance E-ticket are available on the official auto show website: www.AutoShowPhoenix.com.
For more information on the 2011 Phoenix Auto Show, visit www.AutoShowPhoenix.com. If you like what you see at the Phoenix Auto Show, visit Acura of Tempe to test drive a 2012 Acura model right here at our Tempe Acura dealership.
Acura of Tempe
7800 S. Autoplex Loop
Tempe, AZ 85284
No Comments
10 Tips for First-Time Car Buyers
October 26, 2011 by AcuraLuxury, under Dealership News.
Buying a car for the first time is a celebratory moment in anyone’s life, regardless of age, which is why Acura of Tempe is happy to provide this list of 10 Tips for First-Time Car Buyers, compiled by the car experts at Kelley Blue Book’s www.kbb.com.
“The car-buying process is never filled with as much uncertainty as it is for the first time,” said Jack R. Nerad, executive editorial director and executive market analyst for Kelley Blue Book’s kbb.com. ”With this advice in mind, Kelley Blue Book hopes to alleviate some of the stress inherent with such a large financial decision.”
From what you should buy to how you should buy it and where, here are the Top 10 Tips for First-Time Car Buyers:
10. Establish a realistic budget
This figure is generally based on what you can afford per month. Calculate your cost-of-living in all the more important areas, like shelter, food, health insurance and Happy Hour. Once you have that total, the remainder could be spent on a car payment, car insurance and, of course, gas for your new ride.
9. Know what you can spend monthly
While this may look similar to #10, your level of indebtedness is different from your monthly commitment. If you choose to finance your car, figure $25/month for every thousand dollars that you borrow for 48 months, and $20/month for 60-month financing.
8. Establish your transportation needs
Make sure to choose a car that best fits your needs. For instance, if your lifestyle or career requires a car for hauling heavy items, then invest in a larger, heavy-duty vehicle. Given the cost of fuel, insurance and – in many cities – monthly parking, don’t buy what you don’t need.
7. Identify and prioritize your wants
The first-time purchase doesn’t need to be your be-all/end-all acquisition, but you should still pay attention to your ‘want’ list. Better to stretch a bit for those features that will bring more satisfaction in your purchase and prevent buyer’s remorse.
6. Do your research (it’s never been easier)
There is an incredible amount of information and perspective on new cars and their late-model alternatives. There are listings devoted to cars for teenagers, cars for students and first-time buyers. Check out Kelley Blue Book’s kbb.com expert reviews, owner reviews andconsumer guides for more information on your future ride.
5. Locate a convenient dealer
Don’t feel intimidated, as the dealership salesman is closer to a normal person than you think. When deciding between different car models, compare dealer locations and showroom environments. We tend to stay away from dealerships where two-thirds of the sales staff is sitting or standing at the front of the entrance.
4. Take a test drive
With all of the online sources available for your basic research, we believe the importance of the test drive has been marginalized. Virtually nothing is more important in your decision process than how you feel behind the wheel. And so many variables come into play — seat height, wheel adjustment, steering feel, throttle tip-in, outward visibility, control layout, etc. — that you simply must spend a reasonable amount of time driving the car. And that time should be more than five minutes on someone’s idea of a stop-and-go test route. Take at least half an hour, while trying stop-and-go, freeway merging and freeway speeds. And if your sales rep — you know, the normal guy trying to make a living — doesn’t have the 30 minutes, find a time when he or she does, or take the time to find another dealership.
3. Determine the proper purchase price
Once you’ve decided what you like — and have already established what you can afford — it’s time to arrive at a purchase price. This, too, has been made easier by online sites such as this one. KBB.com has its Fair Purchase Price, which gives you an accurate idea of what people have paid in your area for the car you have an interest in. A credit union should also be able to provide you with perspective, and may have a contact on the showroom floor. An important note regarding referrals: Get the referral before taking another salesman’s time for a walkaround and demo. Most of these people work on commission, and commissions are notoriously small. If you plan on working with a referral, start with a referral. Finally, when discussing what you want to pay, don’t reveal a “per month” number; that’s the oldest trick in the book. If you’re thinking you can budget $20K — and you’re looking at a $25K car — tell ‘em $20K. You can always work up…while it’s much harder to back up.
2. Secure financing, or know your options
Financing issues are somewhat like the purchase price; there has been an exponential growth in the number of resources. That, however, is mitigated by your lack of credit history or, in an increasing number of instances, marginal credit history. The last thing you want, however, is to be in a room with an F&I (Finance and Insurance) rep, and he or she is holding all the cards; the deck — if you will — is stacked against you. Better to talk with your credit union, bank or insurance provider (many have the capability and desire to finance your purchase), and line up your financing in advance. You can always go with the dealer option if it’s competitive — but never approach it as if the dealer is the only money game in town.
1. Enjoy the process
We know, the above advice makes buying a car seem like an ordeal, but even those with no interest or passion in a car or truck can — if the process is given half a chance — be stimulated by the sheer variety of options available, and the genuine creativity that goes in to today’s automotive menu. With financing rates low, the American industry on firm financial footing, Japanese plants up and running and the Koreans going like gangbusters, your options have never been better (especially in the “entry-level” category) — and car ownership never more rewarding. Take your time in the process, and you’ll be delighted with the outcome for at least the first 48 (or 60) monthly payments.
Now that you’re armed with the information you need to buy your first car, head to a dealership that’s known for being extremely helpful without being pushy: Acura of Tempe. Our Tempe Acura dealership features the largest selection of new and used Acuras – and the friendliest sales staff – in Arizona.
Acura of Temp
7800 S. Autoplex Loop
Tempe, AZ 85284
No Comments
2012 Acura RL Arrives at Acura of Tempe
October 25, 2011 by AcuraLuxury, under Acura RL.
Photo: 2012 Acura RL at Acura of Tempe.
The RL luxury performance sedan has always been one of Acura’s most technologically advanced vehicles, and the 2012 model is no exception.
Featuring bold looks, a 300 horsepower engine and Acura’s acclaimed Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system, the 2012 RL at Acura of Tempe demonstrates that refined luxury is complemented perfectly by advanced technology and performance adrenaline. In addition to delivering luxury, style and performance, Acura of Tempe’s top-of-the-line sedan keeps drivers more connected to their world (and the world around them) by featuring some of the latest in intuitive, easy-to-use, state-of-the-art technology:
– Bluetooth HandsFreeLink connectivity and a Multi-Information Display (MID) allow easy access to multiple electronic functions.
– An available Technology Package includes:
* Satellite-linked Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition
* AcuraLink Real-Time Traffic with Traffic Rerouting
* AcuraLink Real-Time Weather
* Rear view back-up camera
* Back-up sensors
* Active Front Lighting System (AFS)
* Ventilated front seats and a simulated burlwood accented steering wheel and shift knob.
– The top RL trim is the Advance Package adds Acura’s Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS), Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), power folding side mirrors and genuine maple wood instrument panel trim.
Along with every new Acura sold at Acura of Tempe, the 2012 RL is covered by a comprehensive 4-year/50,000 mile bumper-to-bumper limited warranty and a 6-year/70,000 miles powertrain limited warranty. Additional benefits of ownership include Acura Total Luxury Care (TLC), which provides free 24-hour roadside assistance, concierge service and trip routing.
Check out the 2012 RL at Acura of Tempe along with Acura’s full line of technologically advanced performance luxury vehicles: the new 2012 TL performance luxury sedan, the TSX sports sedan and Sport Wagon, the turbocharged RDX luxury crossover SUV, the award-winning MDX luxury sport utility vehicle and the ZDX four-door sports coupe.
Acura of Tempe
7800 S. Autoplex Loop
Tempe, AZ 85284
