The Mercedes-Benz Concept IAA

 

 

  A fuel/electric hybrid by Mercedes-Benz, the Concept IAA has a fuel economy of 191.6 m.p.g. and a top speed of 155 m.p.h. Its most futuristic feature? The car has the ability to automatically transform shape: At speeds greater than 50 m.p.h., a metal frame extends from the rear, lengthening the vehicle and improving its aerodynamic performance.
  The Mercedes-Benz “Concept IAA” (Intelligent Aerodynamic Automobile) switches automatically from design mode to aerodynamic mode when the vehicle reaches a speed of 80 km/h, whereby numerous aerodynamics measures alter the shape of the vehicle. For this reason the study is two cars in one: an aerodynamics world champion with a Cd value of 0.19 and a four-door coupé embodying irresistible design.

   Inside, the “Concept IAA” continues the design line of the S-Class and S-Class Coupé, offers new touch-based functions and provides an idea of what the interior of a business saloon might look like in the near future.

Shop our current inventory at www.gurleyleepmercedes.com

The C-Class has gotten an upgrade

   Mercedes-Benz has updated a member of its C-Class, unveiling a new C-Class Coupe several weeks ahead of its official September debut at the 2015 Frankfurt Motor Show. The car’s design reflects a focus on both performance and aesthetics. “We honed in to ensure maximum driving enjoyment,” says Heiko Schmidt, product manager for the C-Class at Mercedes-Benz USA. “This meant lowering the car 15 millimeters [approximately 0.62 inches] compared with the C-Class sedan, which makes the vehicle more sport-tuned. We also reduced the car weight by using alloy components and included 18-inch wheels to ensure agile handling on the turn.”

 “Among the most important elements in our new model were the ways our designers explicitly sacrificed some function to focus on form,” adds Gorden Wagener, vice president of design for Daimler AG. “The C-Class Coupe is 2.4 inches longer than its predecessor, which means the front is more striking with its long, aggressive hood and the rear has a bold new look.”

  The new C-Class Coupe will initially be available as a C300 four-cylinder (both rear-wheel and all-wheel drive) when it is launched in Spring 2016.

Shop our current Mercedes-Benz C-Class inventory at www.gurleyleepmercedes.com or visit our showroom located at 4004 N. Grape Rd. Mishawaka, IN. 46545 where you can speak with a member of our Mercedes Certified Sales Team. We look forward to speaking with you.

Best Mercedes for Winter Driving? The Mercedes-Benz C-Class

  The Mercedes-Benz C-Class is a safe, reliable series of upscale small sedans and coupes. For versatility, opt for the four-door version of the C-Class, which provides comfortable seating for five passengers. Reviewers say that the base C-Class, the C300, offers good handling, and its 241-horsepower, turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine is potent enough. Upgrading to the C400 model provides 329 horsepower, courtesy of a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V-6 engine. The C300 is available with Mercedes-Benz' 4MATIC all-wheel drive system (it comes standard on the C400), which will provide the best support for winter driving. The C-Class offers heated front seats as an option, and the features menu also provides plenty of safety equipment for a comfortable and composed all-weather commute.

Shop our current C-Class inventory at www.gurleyleepmercedes.com or visit our showroom located 4004 N. Grape Rd. Mishawaka, IN. 46545 where you can speak with a member of our Mercedes Certified Sales Team. We look forward to hearing from you.

The 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLE

Strong. Sophisticated. State-of-the-art.

  One of Mercedes-Benz cornerstones has been safety innovation. Their vehicles have set benchmarks generation after generation in passive and active safety. The new 2016 GLE SUV is no different and continues this proud tradition. With so many different technologies including Intelligent Drive, the new GLE is designed to help drivers avoid trouble on the road while delivering world-class comfort, versatility and agility that only the successor to the M-Class can offer. 

Read more here and also shop our current GLE inventory at www.gurleyleepmercedes.com. You can also visit our showroom located at 4004 N. Grape Rd. Mishawaka, IN. 46545 and speak with a member of our Mercedes Certified Sales Team. We look forward to hearing from you.

The 2016 Mercedes-Benz E-Class

 

 

    It's instantly recognizable. It acts like a role model and looks like a supermodel.

   The 2016 E-Class performs, looks and feels like no other Mercedes-Benz. That's the E-Class magic though; bold, sporty and proud to wear the Mercedes-Benz star on their grille. True to their iconic look, every E is defined by it's sculpted physique. The interior is subtly refined and exquisitely crafted to perfection. Not only is the E-class cabin designed to fit you and your passengers, it's designed to suit you. From the polished and matte aluminum, handcrafted wood and crystal clear display, the E-class envelops the feeling of total connectedness and complete escape.


Read more here and shop our current E-Class inventory at www.gurleyleepmotorwerks.com or visit our showroom located at 4004 N. Grape Rd. Mishawaka, IN. 46545 where you can speak with a member of our Mercedes-Benz Sales Team. We look forward to hearing from you!

2016 Mercedes-Benz C450 AMG First Drive: Video

 

   As the new kid on the sports-sedan block, the C450 AMG 4MATIC has a lot to prove, and while it may not be a full-on Mercedes-AMG product like the steroidal C63, it contains enough of its big brother’s goodies to earn the AMG badge.
   One glance at the all-new 2016 C450 AMG 4MATIC tells you that it is true AMG, with its characteristic body styling and AMG-exclusive wheels. But the proof is in not just what you see, but also in what you feel: a performance-tuned 3.0-liter biturbo V-6 that delivers 362 horsepower and 384 lb-ft of torque to propel you to 60mph in only 4.9 sec. A suspension adopted from the top-of-the-line Mercedes-AMG C63. And the rear-biased AMG Performance 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system found in a number of AMG models.

Shop our current Mercedes inventory at www.gurleyleepmercedes.com or visit our showroom located at 4004 N. Grape Rd. Mishawaka, IN. 46545 where you can speak with one of our Mercedes Certified Sale Team members. We look forward to hearing from you!

Is your car ready for Winter?

1.  Check your battery.  Getting stranded in the cold with a dead battery is no one's idea of a good time.  If you have a maintenance-free battery, there should be a window on the top of the battery that tells you the state of it's charge.  If it's not, check the fluid levels, and top off with distilled water as necessary.  if you're not sure how to check your battery, most any auto parts store will be able to check it for you.

2.  Check your tires.  While a dead battery can leave you stranded, balding tires on snowy and icy roads can lead to a much more dangerous situation.  If you live in an area that gets a significant amount of snow, you may want to consider snow tires.

3.  Check your wiper blades.  Going cheap on your wiper blades or ignoring them can lead to very unpleasant driving in the winter.  Bad wipers can't do an adequate job of keeping the snow and ice off of your windshield, no matter how high you have the defrosters blasting.

4.  Check your fluids.  Check your owner's manual, but for most vehicles, the cooling system should be flushed every two years.  If your vehicle is overdue, prior to winter setting in is as good of a time as any to have it taken care of.  Also, refer to your owner's manual to find what type and what mixture of anti-freeze you should be using.  You will also want to keep your windshield washer fluid full, using a fluid that is designed for not freezing in the cold weather.  If you get stuck behind a truck throwing dirty snow at your windshield, you will be glad you did.  As always, change your oil regularly.

5.  Keep your vehicle supplied.  Normal emergency materials are key for the winter.  If you do get stranded on the road, you want other driver's to be able to see you.  Roadside flares are not excessive to keep on hand.  Keeping extra warm cloths, gloves, and a blanket or two are always good ideas as well.  Be sure to have lock de-icer on hand- and keep in mind that it doesn't always help to have it in the car.  Some in your house, and some at work are a great idea. 

6.  Care for the interior of your car.  In and out of the snow, ice, and salt can be particularly rough on your carpets.  Be sure to have at least an inexpensive set of floor mats for your car.  Better yet are the kind that can hold the water and keep it away from your carpets completely.

7.  Let your car warm up (and revving your engine doesn't really help).  Keep in mind, though, thieves are excellent at watching for cars that are running but unattended.  Have an extra door key that you keep on you and lock the doors while it is warming up, even if you are at home. 

8.  Be safe.  Allow extra time to get where you are going, leave plenty of space between you and the driver in front, and use good common sense.  It's better to arrive a few minutes late than not at all. 

 

The Mille Miglia 417 Special Edition

A slightly more extroverted SL.

 

   The Mercedes-Benz SL will be restyled soon, but before an extensive facelift fixes its aesthetic issues, the company is launching this Mille Miglia 417 special edition, which pays homage to a legend. It is a modern-day interpretation of the 300SL. It's impossible to ignore this special version of today’s SL. Offered only in matte black, it comes exclusively with black wheels measuring 19 inches up front and 20 inches at the back. Inside and out, the Mille Miglia 417 is littered with red accents. It’s not discreet, but it is well executed.

 

   Top up or down, the SL550 Mille Miglia 417 looks aggressive, and it is fast: 60 mph comes up in just over four seconds, according to Mercedes, and it can reach a governed 155 mph.  On the open road, we were impressed by the SL’s directional stability and steering precision. And despite its huge wheels, this SL possesses sufficiently comfortable ride quality. 

 

  

 

Shop our current SL inventory at www.gurleyleepmotorwerks.com or visit our showroom located 4004 N. Grape Rd. Mishawaka, IN. 46545 where you can speak with one of our Mercedes Certified Sales Consultants. We look forward to hearing from you!

The new Mercedes AMG GT S

   AMG characterizes the GT S as the better behaved, more affordable offspring of the SLS Gullwing, but make no mistake: It’s still wild. Like the SLS, it’s ostentatious and extremely powerful, with a boisterous 503-hp V-8. Also like the SLS, it’s a little cramped and hard to see out of. It lacks the perfect precision of its bogey, the Porsche 911 Turbo, but that’s all part of the fun. (AMG dismisses the 911 as “too clean.”) The GT S is on sale now. A cheaper GT variant, making 456 hp, goes on sale for about $110,000 next spring.


Shop our current Mercedes inventory at www.gurleyleepmotorwerks.com or visit our showroom located at 4004 N. Grape Rd. Mishawaka, IN 46545 where you can speak a member of our Mercedes Certified Sales Team. We look forward to hearing from you.

The new Mercedes-Benz AMG C63

   The old C63 was a cartoon character, what with its firing-range exhaust note and tail-out cornering antics. The new car is more sophisticated and well-rounded. It corners with more enthusiasm and brakes with right-now urgency, even without the optional carbon-ceramic rotors. The twin-turbo V-8, for better or for worse, delivers its power in relaxed fashion, but the output is an undeniably brutal 469 hp (503 hp in the C63 S). An optional two-mode exhaust still delivers a thunderous soundtrack.


Shop our current Mercedes inventory at www.gurleyleepmotorwerks.com or visit our showroom located at 4004 N. Grape Rd. Mishawaka, IN 46545 and speak with one of our Mercedes Certified Sales Consultants. We look forward to hearing from you!

The new Mercedes-Benz C350e

   Mercedes-Benz is embracing hybrids, proclaiming that it will have 10 new plug-ins by 2017. Of those, the reasonably priced C350e is likely to be one of the most popular. It will deliver 19 miles of electric cruising, and its liquid-cooled battery pack can get juiced up in just 90 minutes from a 240-volt quick-charger. Its 80-hp electric motor can also boost the 211-hp four-cylinder. As in the much pricier S-Class plug-in hybrid, you can program when and where the car uses its EV power or its regenerative capacity. Most important, the C350e looks and feels just like a C-Class.



Shop our current Mercedes-Benz models at www.gurleyleepmotorwerks.com or visit our showroom located at 4004 N. Grape Rd. Mishawaka, IN. 46545 to speak with one our Mercedes Certified Sales Consultants. We look forward to speaking with you.

The all-new 2016 350 Hybrid Plug-In

    Sleek, elegant and ready to drive. It's everything you'd expect from a C‑Class, plus the efficiency of our most advanced hybrid technology yet. With a four-cylinder gasoline engine in conjunction with a powerful electric motor, the C350 Plug-In Hybrid boasts 275 horsepower while still allowing for emissions-free driving of up to 18.6 miles (estimated). And thanks to an intelligent on-board charging system, the battery can be quickly charged at a wallbox, through a standard domestic socket, or at one of the growing number of charging stations.
    On top of all that, it's especially thrilling to drive. Offering five custom transmission modes - Individual, Sport, Sport+, Comfort and Economy - it puts you in control of the driving feel. And with four additional engine modes, you can also adjust the ratio of gas and electric energy, so the range of efficiency is completely up to you. It's the all-new C350 Plug-In Hybrid, and it arrives in the fall of 2015.



Shop our current inventory at www.gurleyleepmotorwerks.com

2016 Audi Q7

The Totally redesigned 2016 Audi Q7

 

   The all-new 2016 Audi Q7 has made its debut at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit. Boasting a remake that trims over 700 pounds while upping fuel economy by 26 percent and it's slightly smaller on the outside, the second generation of Audi's range-topping 7-passenger crossover SUV offers more passenger space and cargo room than the current vehicle. This premium hauler also boasts a host of new tech touches and driver assists.

  The remake also brings more conversational voice recognition, available 3D audio systems from Bose and Bang & Olfusen, smartphone integration with Google Android Auto and Apple CarPlay plus a new rear-seat entertainment system with single or dual 10.1-inch removable Audi tablet screens that can connect via the on-board LTE Wi-Fi to the MMI navigation plus system. The cabin itself has more head, leg and shoulder room in virtually all seating positions and an easier-loading cargo bay accessed via a standard power hatch or available gesture control activation.


Shop our current Q7 inventory at www.gurleyleepaudi.com or visit our showroom located at 4004 Grape Rd. Mishawaka, IN. 46545 and speak with one of our Audi Certified Product Specialist.

The Mercedes-AMG C63 S Coupe could be “something fast”

  
   Even though everyone was expecting the street version of the Mercedes-AMG GT3, the intriguing teaser photographs of the car all dressed up in black and white showed different design lines than the muscular ones of the supercar and the hood seems to be much shorter than the GT one. By the look of those headlight, the E63 is out of the question, also because the standard model won’t be out before 2016. 
   The six-piston brake calipers and the 19-inch wheels are wrapped in 255/35 tires and sheltered under prominent wheel arches. The coupe is set to receive added suspension tuning, a hydraulic steering system for an electric setup, a standardly fit mechanical lock differential, while the S model will get an electronic one.

 

 

 

 

 

 

   The famous V8 delivers 510 HP, which will help the new supercar slip under the 4.0 seconds for its run from 0 to 100 km/h. The car will be revealed in September, at the Frankfurt Motor Show. Since we already got a video teaser and a set of pretty revealing pictures, the online debut of the new AMG super car is probably going to happen much sooner.


Shop other Mercedes inventory here while we wait for the Mercedes-AMG C63 S Coupe to make its debut!

World Class Mercedes-Benz

Top 5 Reasons to buy a Mercedes Benz

  Ever wonder why you choose one car over another? Other than "you really love this car?" Well, here are 5 reasons you should be buying a Mercedes Benz.

1. World Class Mercedes-Benz Performance

    With a Mercedes-Benz automobile you’ll have the on-demand power, but in addition you’ll experience the ultimate in performance out of the systems that deliver excellence in ride, handling, comfort, fuel economy, safety and even entertainment. Mercedes-Benz designs for the driving experience. It’s nice to know that your car can go from 0 to 60 in 4 seconds but if the seat is uncomfortable, the steering is not responsive, you can’t see out the rear window or your gas bill is higher than your car payment, your car is not a performer. These are the aspects that make up performance

2. World Class Mercedes-Benz Luxury

   From the moment you slide into the driver’s seat of any Mercedes-Benz your first impression will be an incredible sense of luxury. The comfort, the premium upholstery, the plush carpeting, polished wood trim, sleek styling, LED mood lighting, an awesome array of information and entertainment options; even the scent signals that this vehicle is special. If you demand the finer things in life your automobile should be a Mercedes-Benz.

3. World Class Safety
  
   For over six decades the engineers at Mercedes-Benz have been leading the industry in automotive safety starting with the introduction of the crumple zone in 1951, the Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) in 1978 and culminating in an entire suite of proactive and reactive safety systems found on all of today’s Mercedes-Benz models.  Mercedes-Benz takes a holistic approach to safety taking into consideration not just the survivability of the vehicle but ergonomics, driver behavior, situational awareness and the driving environment.

4. World Class Service
  
   You won’t find a brand anywhere that is as protective of its reputation as Mercedes-Benz. That brand protection starts with building a superior automobile but it is the dealer experience that most strongly influences our customers. With that in mind you’ll find that every Mercedes-Benz dealer is staffed with helpful, knowledgeable professionals including factory certified service technicians. Every effort is made to exceed customer expectations. Convenience and superior performance are the watch words for every department at a Mercedes-Benz dealer from showroom to leasing to finance to service and parts.  Once you have experienced the treatment that you will receive at a Mercedes-Benz dealer your definition of an auto dealership will change.

5. World Class Selection
  
   Different drivers have different needs and preferences. Mercedes-Benz understands this and has created a line of automobiles sure to fit every discerning driver’s taste. From the new competitively priced CLA luxury sedan class to the flagship (and benchmark for luxury sedans) S Class and everything in between including an SUV, sports cars and even a station wagon. With multiple trims for each model and an exhaustive list of options you can optimize you Mercedes-Benz to meet your unique requirements.


   Our Mercedes-Benz dealership located at 4004 N. Grape Rd. Mishawaka, IN. 46545 offers a wide selection of all Mercedes-Benz models, including the C250, E350, S550, CLA250, GL350, ML350, and SL550. A Mercedes-Benz cabriolet convertible or Roadster is the perfect car for your summer drives. Visit our Mercedes dealership to speak with one of our Mercedes Certified Product Specialists and to test drive your next luxury sedan, coupe, convertible, or SUV.

Always ahead of the curve

Audi Quattro. For 35 years, our legendary Quattro all-wheel drive has pushed vehicle performance- and the thrill of the ride

A gripping proposition

 Quattro all-wheel drive isn't just designed for wet weather. With its legendary grip and available torque vectoring technology, quattro significantly enhances handling and cornering performance in dry-weather conditions as well.

The always on, all-weather, all-wheel drive

 

  When the weather shows you its worst side, our legendary quattro® all-wheel drive shows you its best. By intuitively sending power to all four wheels, quattro® delivers power to the wheels with the most grip, maximizing traction in wet-weather conditions.

 

 

 

One size does not fit all

  Unlike some other all-wheel drive systems, Audi tailors each quattro® system to the specific vehicle it's found on. For example, our high-performance models are available with a unique version of quattro® that differs from our SUVs. By tailoring the system to each vehicle's intended purpose, quattro® can provide enhanced performance and traction benefits.

 

 

The Legend of Quattro

  Thirty-five years ago, Audi quattro® became the first permanent all-wheel drive system for passenger cars. Since then, it's inspired many imitations — but no equal.

 

 

 

 

 

To learn more about Audi Quattro, shop our online Audi inventory or visit our dealership located at 4004 N. Grape Rd. Mishawaka, IN. 46545 to speak with one of our Audi Certified Product Specialists.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

6 New Car Technologies in Your Not-So-Distant Future

 Volkswagen recently did what most automakers do not: It lifted the veil and let us inside German test facilities for a hands-on look at its tech development process front-row seats at technical seminars, prototype test drives and more. From navigation systems for the kids to cruise control for drowsy driving to cleaner fuel conversions, here's what' on the horizon.

 

 

1. Electronic Sun Visor

     Sun visors never quite hit the mark if you travel east in the morning and west in the evening.  A corporate research project at Volkswagen is developing an electronic anti-glare system using an electronic matrix within the glass controlled by a computer to block the rays. A sun status sensor and a sensor that determines the eye position of the driver both feed signals to the computer, which calculates the point of sunlight entry within the viewing angle of the driver's eyes. The computer then produces a dark "spot" in the glass electronic matrix to block sunlight at that location (similar to the automatic darkening of rear-view mirrors). The spot moves across the windshield as the car changes direction. Right now, the technology doesn't allow for use on all glass, but it would be a huge improvement over the archaic sun visor if and when it's implemented.

2. Family Tech

 "Are we there yet?" It's a question every parent hears at least 600 times every hour on a family road trip. In the past, dad would roll his eyes and say, "Not yet, sweetie." Soon, the kids may be able to answer their own question. VW's child navigation system is essentially a rear DVD screen with a simplified representation of the route, plus special descriptions of scenes along the route. A "time worm" on the screen "eats" away at the length of the route, so the children can see it decreasing. A cartoon character on screen plays games and asks the children to do in-seat exercises and even goes to sleep when the kiddies are napping.

3. Traffic Decongestion

    The freeway you drive everyday suddenly slims down one lane because of an accident--how frustrating. The cars in that blocked lane have to move over. So they inevitably cause a slowdown in traffic in all the other lanes. But is that slowdown really inevitable? The German government is sponsoring an auto industry initiative called "ACTIV," intended to spur use of technology for traffic management and lead eventually to automatic guidance. It's basically what you've always wished drivers would do: speed up and let the other drivers in. Here's how it would work: Instead of letting all cars slow down in the traffic flow, a car in the lane adjacent to the closed lane would be instructed to speed up just before reaching the snarl. That would create a space behind it for a car in the blocked lane--without coming to a near stop and trying to edge in at the last minute.

4. Hands-off Doze Control

    Drowsy driving is a major cause of accidents around the world. Soon, sophisticated camera systems will be able to read highway markings and sound a gentle warning to alert the driver if the vehicle is drifting. Volkswagen showed us a car that was able to correct its own path in such a scenario. Here's how: Thanks to electric power steering, a computer can control the steering gear motor signaled by a camera system and another computer judging the situation. If the camera and sensors detect drifting outside normal driving parameters, it takes control. Although the VW system is aggressive, it can be overridden. For example, activating a turn signal or dialing in extra steering effort will disable the system. Cars that take complete control away from the driver better be flawless. One of the most pressing issues is how to determine when the driver is losing attention or intentionally trying to switch lanes.

5. Cleaner Fuel

    VW and the rest of the German auto industry are taking a hard look at synthetic fuel, made by solid-to-liquid or gas-to-liquid processes. Most of these methods, including improved versions of the Fischer-Tropsch synthesis invented in the 1920s, use catalysts (usually iron or cobalt) to convert solids like coal and agricultural waste or natural gas into liquid fuel. Also under development is ethanol produced from cellulose (straw, wood and various waste materials), rather than from corn or beets, which affect food supply. Biomass fuels, called "SunFuels" because of their renewable origin, are made by the same basic processes as other synthetic fuels.

6. Future Power plants

    The near-term steps are to use fossil fuels more efficiently in piston engines such as Volkswagen's BlueMotion TDI and 1.4-liter turbo spark ignition engine. All vehicle manufacturers are developing Homogenous Charge Compression Ignition (HCCI) engines that use spark ignition for heavy load operation but in light load can ignite a lean mixture throughout a cylinder without a spark. The "homogenous charge" is a uniform mix of air, fuel and up to 70 percent of the already-burned exhaust gas. Compression stroke brings the mixture to a controlled self-ignition state -- no need for a spark. Because of the uniform mix in the cylinder, there's no hot flame front, and the mixture burns almost instantaneously and completely throughout the cylinder. So there aren't any "hot spots" to produce engine knocking. The engine requires spark plugs for starting and heavy loads, but in HCCI mode, it improves fuel economy about 10 to15 percent--close to a diesel. It does require a "designer" gasoline, perhaps a synthetic gasoline.


 Shop our current Volkswagen inventory here or visit our showroom located at 4004 N Grape Rd. Mishawaka, IN. 46545 to speak with any of our Volkswagen Certified Product Specialists.

A Closer Look at the 2016 GLE-Class

 

The new 2016 GLE-Class

 

 

 

    Mercedes-Benz has thoroughly revised its best-seller in the SUV segment. The highlights of the new GLE include considerably more appealing front and tail ends and extensive measures which make new benchmarks with regard to emissions and drive system possible. For the first time in its SUV history, Mercedes-Benz offers a plug-in hybrid model, the GLE550e 4MATIC, which combines maximum efficiency with outstanding performance. This multi-talent will even best the already low fuel consumption figures of the efficiency champion GLE300d with four-cylinder diesel engine, while delivering the performance of a V8 model. The advantages of the new GLE furthermore include best on-road and off-road handling, outstanding spaciousness and high levels of active and passive safety. The high-performance SUV models, the Mercedes-AMG GLE63 4MATIC and the GLE63 S 4MATIC, celebrate their world premieres at the same time at the New York International Auto Show.

 

  Successor to the legendary M-Class, the new GLE-Class is the culmination of nearly 20 years of pioneering work in modern luxury SUVs. In fact, that’s all the way back to when we invented the modern luxury SUV in the first place. Dive into this gallery and get a closer look at the new GLE300d clean diesel, GLE350 and GLE400, inside and out. Luxury or not, an SUV is expected to have some pulling power—and few luxury SUVs deliver on that as well as the new GLE-Class. With a range of powerful, torque-rich engines and rigid uni-body construction, there’s a GLE strong enough for your towing needs—all the way up to a 7700-lbs rating.

   In addition to the appealing design, the variable driving experience thanks to DYNAMIC SELECT and the assistance systems familiar from the E- and S-Class, the GLE impresses with an extensive engine line-up. Five equally efficient and powerful powertrain options with four, six or eight cylinders are available to choose from.

The Special Focus:
 The (201-hp) four-cylinder diesel model GLE300d offers superior performance with an all-time low fuel consumption for this class of vehicles. It is the world's first production full-size SUV with conventional drive that under the European cycle emits just 140 g of CO2/km (5.4 l/100 km).

 No less impressive is the first Mercedes-Benz SUV with plug-in hybrid technology. A system output of 436 hp in the GLE550e 4MATIC guarantees brilliant performance - with European cycle CO2 emissions of just 78 g/km (3.3 l/100 km). With a power consumption of 16.7 kWh/100 km, the GLE 500 e 4MATIC is the benchmark in this market segment. In addition, the hybrid model is capable of up to 30 km (18.6 mi) of all-electric driving.

 

 

Powerful clean diesel engine:
   With the start of the new GLE generation, the diesel model will be equipped with the optionally available off-road reduction gear and inter-axle differential lock. The transmission is fitted with a new type of torque converter with a high efficiency of 92 percent and a wide spread of 9.15 across the nine speeds. Both contribute to the high energy efficiency of the GLE models. A double turbine torsional damper with centrifugal pendulum and the torque converter lock-up clutch with return spring ensure the extremely refined operation typical of the brand. Depending on the mode selected for the DYNAMIC SELECT variable dynamic handling control system, the 7G-TRONIC impresses with great agility and responsiveness or poised composure.

   In the interior the new GLE63 demonstrates what constitutes a true AMG Performance automobile. Exquisite materials, first-class workmanship and maximum precision create a unique driving experience. Design and equipment underscore the exclusive high-end positioning.
 

Shop our online inventory or come into our Mercedes-Benz dealership located  at 4004 N. Grape Rd. Mishawaka, IN. 46545 to speak with one of our Certified Mercedes Product Specialists about the new 2016 GLE.

A brand-new way to think about cars

   Buying a car an be a stressful experience. Buying a Certified Pre-Owned Volkswagen is not. Our dealership puts pre-owned vehicles through a comprehensive, painstakingly detailed 112-point inspection. Every car is put on the lift, every engine is tested on the road, and every inch is inspected. If a car isn’t working perfectly, we won’t let you drive away in it. And if any VW elements fail to pass muster, they will be repaired or replaced with genuine Volkswagen parts. Here are a few highlights of the inspection process:

Check engine for starting and performance, and idle for knocking and vibration 

Check transmission for any performance malfunction or noise 

Test brakes for proper function, distance, and vibration 

Test steering for noise, effort, vibration, and pulling 

Get all maintenance up to date, ensure records with vehicle 

CARFAX Vehicle Report
   See the past. Know the future. Every WorldAuto vehicle comes with a detailed CARFAX report so you can have a peace of mind, no matter which car you choose. Because every report checks for title problems, ownership history, and accidents, it’s the best way to find out everything your car—and its owner—have been up to. 


24-Hour Roadside Assistance Program

   Get two years of 24-hour Roadside Assistance on your vehicle, on us. That means you’ll have a group of automotive experts standing by 24 hours a day, no matter what your vehicle’s odometer reads. The program includes: 

• Tow to the nearest licensed authorized Volkswagen dealer 
• Flat tire changes 
• Jump starting 
• Emergency fuel delivery 
• Winching/Extrication 
• Unlocking your door 
• Emergency repairs 
• Available 365 days a year, 24 hours a day 

Quality Pre-Owned

   Volkswagen is happy to offer a 1-year or 12,000-mile limited warranty on all Quality Pre-Owned non-Volkswagen vehicles. Here’s a closer look at what’s covered:

• 1-year or 12,000-mile limited warranty
• $100 deductible 
• Detailed 112-point inspection backed by a qualified automotive technician 
• Access to network of 2800+ dealerships 
• CARFAX Vehicle History Report 
• 3-month trial subscription to SiriusXM Satellite Radio 
• Travel protection in excess of 100 miles from home, $75 a day or $225 per incident 
• Rental car coverage at $35 a day for up to 10 days 
• Roadside Assistance for one year 
• Coverage for first $50 of emergency towing service, battery jump start, flat-tire service, lockout service, and fuel-delivery service 

With any purchase, you want to be sure that you are getting the best deal. Now that you're armed with information about Volkswagen's Certified Pre-Owned cars and what it takes to certify them, shop our inventory or visit our store located at 4004 N. Grape Rd. Mishawaka, IN. 46545 to speak with one of our Volkswagen Certified Specialists.

Certified Pre-Owned...Now with unlimited peace of mind.

   When you drive off in your Certified Pre-Owned Mercedes-Benz, you’re protected by the MBCPO Base Limited Warranty, which runs for 1 year and covers unlimited miles – as well as any remainder of your vehicle’s original 4-year/50,000-mile Mercedes-Benz New Vehicle Warranty. When your one-year base term runs out, the MBCPO Extended Limited Warranty program lets you buy an extra 1 or 2 years of warranty coverage regardless of miles. The Extended Warranty is an incredible value, offering exceptional coverage at an affordable price. You not only get the legendary quality and reliability of a Mercedes-Benz, but an extra level of security against an unexpected repair. To qualify for Pre-Owned Certification, a Mercedes-Benz vehicle must meet stringent criteria and pass a rigorous inspection.

General:
  -To begin the inspection, a mileage/history verification is performed and owner's manuals and spare keys are assembled.

Engine Compartment and Pre-Road Test Checks:
  -Mercedes-Benz engines undergo all oil and fluid inspections to ensure unmatched performance. Engine, transmission, and rear-axle oil, brake, clutch, and level-control fluid, among others are carefully examined.

Engine Component & System Condition check:
  -We perform a thorough condition check verification of your engine from filters and plugs to engine mounts and V-belts.

Electrical Systems and Function Test:
  -Everything on the vehicle that takes a charge, from the headlamps, fuses, and radio to the heated seats, front seat-belt presenters, and rear-window sunshade, gets checked and approved.

Undercarriage / Drive Train:
  -We get right underneath the vehicle to scrutinize the steering, suspensions, brakes, wheels, tires, and driveshaft.

Chassis / Body:
  -From body structure to glass, lamp frames, lenses, seat belts, and vanity mirrors, nothing is left out.

Road Test:
  -The road test is conducted firsthand from the driver's seat: instruments, vibration and noise, shift lock operations, and more are all checked.

Post-Road Test:
  -After our test drive, we check for leaks, verify the proper fluid levels, and complete the inspection of the climate control begun during road testing.

Appearance:
  -A Certified Pre-Owned vehicle is a clean-skinned beauty, as free as dings, dents, rips, scratches, and scuffs as we can make it, with high quality fit and finish, inside and out.


Now that you've got more information about Certified Ore-Owned Mercedes, shop our Certified Pre-Owned Mercedes inventory here or visit our showroom located at 4004 N. Grape Rd. Mishawaka, IN. 46545 to speak with one of our certified Mercedes specialists about Certified pre-Owned Mercedes.

Why Purchase Certifed Pre-Owned Audi

No other manufacturer has a more thorough inspection process. Checkpoints include features and details from the headlights and engine to the electrical and safety systems. To certify any Audi to be certified pre-owned, each vehicle has to go through a rigorous 300+ pointer dealer inspection. That inspection includes:

• Audi Achtungs (Stops!)
• This includes a CARFAX; anything that has a "no" in the "Meets Audi Requirements" column, it will not pass and cannot be certified.
• Interior of Vehicle
• Front Interior
• Left Front Interior
• Left Rear Interior
• Right Rear Interior
• Right Front Interior
• Exterior of Vehicle
• Front Exterior
• Left Front Exterior
• Left Rear Exterior
• Rear Exterior
• Right Rear Exterior
• Right Front Exterior
• Top Exterior
• Engine Compartment
• Engine
• Cooling System
• Transmission
• Electrical System
• Brake System
• Road Test
• Engine, Drivetrain and Operation
• Under the Vehicle
• Undercarriage
• Exhaust System
• Engine/Transmission/Differentials/Transaxle
• Tire and Wheels
• Brakes
• Fuel Tanks and Lines

Here are 10 reasons why you should own a Certified Pre-Owned Audi:

1. The above listed 300+ point inspection
2. Up to 6 years or 100,000 total vehicle miles of limited warranty coverage
3. The Audi Certified ore-owned program offers exceptional benefits
4. The vehicles are built to last
5. They are designed to stand the test of time
6. The driver is top of mind
7. Purchase the Audi You've always dreamed about
8. Every Audi vehicle goes through rigorous testing during development
9. We've made owning an Audi Certified pre-owned vehicle even better
10. We are committed to making you a lifelong Audi fan.

Now that you've been given 10 reasons and a shortened version of our 300+ point inspection sheet of why you should buy a Certified Pre-Owned Audi, shop our online inventory here to see what Certified Pre-Owned Audi's we have at Gurley Leep Audi.

The Electric Q6

Electric Audi Q6 arriving by 2018

   It was confirmed by Audi that they will produce an electric crossover that should arrive by 2018. There are now a few more clues available on what to expect from the car, most likely called an A6. Audi CEO Rupert Stadler has said the model will be available by 2018 to coincide with the arrival of a stronger charging infrastructure. Stadler has said that achieving a range of 310 miles, "is a must." "Now with our engineers and our battery-cell suppliers we are at a stage where we can say yes, this is feasible and we believe that with the ongoing investments in terms of infrastructure development we think that 2018-2019 is the right time to come up with such a car," he noted. Audi promises the Q6 will be sporty, sexy, and packed with utility. The new Q6 model is primed to take on the Tesla Model X. The Q6 isn't the only crossover to be hitting Audi dealerships. As it has already been reported, Audi has confirmed a Q8 model, which will be offered as a sporty Q variant. And according to Audi CEO, Rupert Stadler, it will be more expensive than the Q7.

Shop for current Audi models at Gurley Leep Motorwerks.

The future of safety

Something this simple can save lives.

 

 

When it comes to automakers, there are those who will adapt their vehicles just enough to meet required safety standards, and then there are those that go above and beyond and continue to raise the bar every year. Mercedes-Benz is one of those automakers that go above and beyond. They have created the Mercedes-Benz Rescue Assist Program, because it can be a dangerous situation at the scene of an accident when First Responders don't have the vehicle's structural information. The application brings up pictures of the vehicle and shows exactly where some of the most dangerous systems are located. Among the systems that are displayed on the application are the airbags, impact zones, seat belts, fuel tank, restraints and battery. While the Rescue Assist Application was just implemented in 2013, the goods news is that any Mercedes-Benz dating back to 1990 can have the QR code installed.

 

 

Contact Gurley Leep Mercedes Service Department to get your Rescue Assist Application installed.

Take it to the limit, one more time.

 

2015 Mercedes-Benz S65 AMG Coupe...186 mph of pure luxury

   The 2015 S65 AMG coupe is among the most luxurious and most attractive vehicles on the planet, with ridiculous levels of equipment. First and foremost, it's a beast, a menacing and more evil one that it's V-8 powered S63 sibling.

   This remarkably beautiful and powerful two-door coupe boasts a twin-turbocharged V-12 engine with 621 horsepower and 738 lb-ft of torque. Numbers don't do this stunning car justice, but they are impressive nonetheless. It can sprint to 60 mph in a mere four seconds flat and it's top speed is governed at a satisfying 186 mph. The S65 is equipped with a "Curve Tilting" function, which at speeds between 10 and 111mph actually leans the body of car into the corners like a motorcycle. While this feature seems like it would increase corner speeds, it's really meant to increase the fun of driving the S65.

   The interior of the S65 is just as exciting as the exterior. The cabin is drenched in cross-stitched, nappa leather and the new sports steering wheel allows for perfect control; trimmed with perforated leather in the grip area and a metal insert AMG lettering. The sports seats are exclusively developed for AMG to ensure long-distance comfort. The AMG packs in every imaginable feature from Mercedes-Benz play book and then some. There is a 360-degree parking camera, cross-traffic alert, blind-spot monitoring, a standard heads up display, a new touchpad COMAND system, a Burmester surround-sound audio and a 12.2 inch color TFT center display.

   No one talks about personal luxury cars anymore, but the Mercedes-Benz S65 AMG reminds us that they are still out there. There may not be a modern term for them, but a distinction remains between the average luxury car and the one the is so narcissistically over the top that it exists solely for the purpose to serve, appease and pamper it's driver. Personal luxury is getting to choose when to enjoy your car's performance and when the car does the traveling for you. This car proves it.

 

 

Shop our Mercedes-Benz store for more exciting models.

 

 

 

Audi TTS Confirmed in 'Avengers: Age of Ultron'

Audi TTS Confirmed in 'Avengers: Age of Ultron'




The biggest blockbuster expected on movie screens this year is the upcoming Avengers Age of Ultron due May 1 in theaters. It has been confirmed that the Audi TTS will also be featured in the upcoming movie. While an announcement is expected this week, possibly at the New York Auto Show, marketing materials have already begun to appear in dealerships around the country.
Materials we’ve found in dealerships, including a movie poster and cut-out cardboard kit including Avengers figures and a build-your-own Audi TTS coupé state the following.

Playing a starring role in Marvel’s Avengers: Age of Ultron, the all-new Audi TTS provides the kind of performance and advanced technology a Super Hero needs to save the day.

Given the placement of a new red TTS on the materials, that would suggest the car in the movie will be a new red Audi TTS coupé. Interestingly, as we researched more on this story, we learned that a Nimbus Grey Audi TTS and possibly a limited edition TTS competition was used in the filming of a scene involving Captain America.

Mercedes-Benz C-Class and S-Class: Finalists for World Car Awards 2015

Owners and aficionados have long known that Mercedes-Benz has stood apart from the rest because of its fine craftsmanship, powerful performance, and sophisticated elegance. So it comes as no surprise that Mercedes-Benz made the short list for the 2015 World Car Awards. Twice. The C-Class is a finalist for the World Car Awards Design of the Year 2015 and the S-Class is a finalist for World Luxury Car of the Year 2015. If you have driven one, you understand. If you own one, you know.



A panel of five narrowed the field down to the short lists this year. Composed of Masatsugu Arumoto of Japan, Silvia Baruffaldi of Italy, Gernot Bracht of Germany, Tom Matano of USA, and Sam Livingstone of the UK, each highly respected designer brings a unique strategy and strength to the task at hand as well as a passion for automotive design.



Bracht shares his strategy with WCOTY: “At first, it is a spontaneous ‘like’ or ‘don’t like’ decision. There are cars you would never vote for because they are against your own design philosophy.” Baruffaldi has a different approach: “I start deleting the less significant models first, in order to narrow the selections. Then comes the more difficult part, to pick up only five of the remaining nominees.”



Judging the quality of a vehicle’s design comes down to a certain balance between proportion and shape, as well as between form and function. In addition to these key elements, notes Arimoto, “being consistent with the brand’s identity.” Matano adds “I always look for a ‘newness’, indicating a new direction in design, or the innovative approach of blending function/technology and aesthetics.” For Livingstone, standout candidates are “the ones that move the discipline of car design forward in useful, relevant (for today and tomorrow) ways, and that are well executed.”



The finalists for the 2015 World Car Awards were announced earlier this year, a diverse representation across a wide range of vehicles. The design panel eagerly awaits the final results from the jury’s vote in April at the New York Auto Show in April. What makes the awards so significant, notes Matano, is that “the jurors come from a truly global scope. It’s truly global and very neutral.”



The only thing left to do is experience the C-Class or S-Class for yourself. Take a ride in a vehicle as distinctive as you are. Make your statement.

VW Passat nominated World Car of the Year 2015

To drive a Volkswagen is to experience passion. Engineering and fueling passion is at the heart of Volkswagen. And it caught the eye of the panelists at the World Car Awards 2015, landing the Volkswagen Passat as a finalist for World Car of the Year 2015.



To get to this point, a panel of five of the most highly respected designers in the industry had the formidable task of narrowing the field for the jury to vote for. Masatsugu Arumoto of Japan, Silvia Baruffaldi of Italy, Gernot Bracht of Germany, Tom Matano of USA, and Sam Livingstone of the UK. Each brings a unique strategy and strength to the task at hand as well as a passion for automotive design. Bracht explains that “at first, it is a spontaneous ‘like’ or ‘don’t like’ decision. There are cars you would never vote for because they are against your own design philosophy.” Conversely, Baruffaldi says she starts “deleting the less significant models first, in order to narrow the selections. Then comes the more difficult part, to pick up only five of the remaining nominees.”



The panel says that the final decisions come down to a certain balance between proportion and shape, as well as between form and function. In addition to these key elements, notes Arimoto, “being consistent with the brand’s identity.” Matano adds “I always look for a ‘newness’, indicating a new direction in design, or the innovative approach of blending function/technology and aesthetics.” For Livingstone, standout candidates are “the ones that move the discipline of car design forward in useful, relevant (for today and tomorrow) ways, and that are well executed.”

...


Continue reading at Gurley Leep Volkswagen

3 Audis make final World Car Awards list

2015 World Car Award Finalists




The short lists are now in for the 2015 World Car Awards.




To get to this point, a panel of five of the most highly respected designers in the industry had the formidable task of narrowing the field for the jury to vote for. Masatsugu Arumoto of Japan, Silvia Baruffaldi of Italy, Gernot Bracht of Germany, Tom Matano of USA, and Sam Livingstone of the UK. Each brings a unique strategy and strength to the task at hand as well as a passion for automotive design.





Bracht: “At first, it is a spontaneous ‘like’ or ‘don’t like’ decision. There are cars you would never vote for because they are against your own design philosophy.”





Baruffaldi: “I start deleting the less significant models first, in order to narrow the selections. Then comes the more difficult part, to pick up only five of the remaining nominees.”





Judging the quality of a vehicle’s design comes down to a certain balance between proportion and shape, as well as between form and function. In addition to these key elements, notes Arimoto, “being consistent with the brand’s identity.” Matano adds “I always look for a ‘newness’, indicating a new direction in design, or the innovative approach of blending function/technology and aesthetics.” For Livingstone, standout candidates are “the ones that move the discipline of car design forward in useful, relevant (for today and tomorrow) ways, and that are well executed.”





When it comes to “genres” and car design – from SUV to sport coupe to luxury limo – this is not something the panel focuses on when judging candidates. The same criteria applies for all candidates, the panel agrees. “I do not pay much attention to categorization, because it is not important for customers,” says Arimoto. “…Good design can be done in any category. People fall in love with a car not because of its categorization but its design.”





The only time categorization becomes more pertinent is as we move forward, into the future. Boundaries with car categories are becoming increasingly blurred. “Broadly I see more ‘mash-ups’ of existing genres,” observes Livingstone, “particularly those that sit around the lifestyle end of the crossover/SUV space…”





When inquired about the potential of a new “autonomous drive” category within the World Car Design of the Year Award, Baruffaldi commented, “Autonomous driving is definitely the issue of the future: It will be interesting to see, for example, how the on-board space will be reorganized… But probably, at the beginning, the autonomous features will simply be added to the cars as they are today, so adding an additional category won’t be immediately necessary.” Tom Matano agreed, adding “I still believe that the criteria for what is good design doesn’t need to change. If an autonomous vehicle changes proportion due to what it does, inside and so on, we will be judging the correctness of that proportion.”





The finalists for the 2015 World Car Awards were announced earlier this year, a diverse representation across a wide range of vehicles. The design panel eagerly awaits the final results from the jury’s vote in April at the New York Auto Show in April. What makes the awards so significant, notes Matano, is that “the jurors come from a truly global scope. It’s truly global and very neutral.”





Click here for the full 2015 WCOTY report




NEXT STEPS


View Audi Finalists:
2015 Audi S1: Contact Audi Michiana
2015 Audi S3
2015 Audi TT

The Mercedes-Benz SL-Class Roadster: Leading the curve

AN ICON COMES TO LIFE
There are few cars that can pull from 60 years of history. It comes from an endless devotion to innovation. A passion for perfection. This is the sports car for drivers.

The classic two-seat cockpit embraces you the same way the SL hugs the road. Forward thinking and still rooted in roadster tradition, technologies abound that reflect your passion for life. From its season-extending AIRSCARF® system to innovative sun-reflecting leather that’s still carefully fitted to each seat by hand.

In seconds, the SL’s signature retractable power hardtop transforms from coupe to open roadster, allowing you to take full advantage of the day. The standard Panorama roof features a see-through panel and sliding sunshade, allowing you the options of a breezy top down feel or hardtop in the shade drive. For additional customized options at the touch of a button, the exclusive MAGIC SKY CONTROL® lets you darken the roof’s glass panel electronically.

Surround yourself with clear standard Harman/kardon surround sound. Delivering 600 watts of crystal clear audio, even with the top down, this is an innovative system where the FrontBass® subwoofers utilize parts of the aluminum body structure as acoustic chambers. Conversely, you can immerse yourself in the luxuriance and artistry of the 900-watt, 7.1 channel Bang & Olufsen® BeoSound Premium Sound System...

Five Audis worth looking at

When it comes to ratings, Audi has always earned the highest marks. And with trusted online automotive advisor Edmunds.com, this is no exception. Five of Audi’s defining sedans were awarded A’s. Top honors indeed. And while four of them are 2014 models, there is confidence in knowing Audi’s dedication to ongoing excellence and perfection. No doubt the next models will make the subsequent list.

2015 Audi A3
The 2015 Audi A3 is the award-winning luxury compact car that leaves a big impression. Premium design, craftsmanship and impressive performance, this is the Audi that proves there are no limitations.


2014 Audi A4
Put the status quo on notice with your arrival. The Audi A4 is a statement of timeless style and unrivaled craftsmanship. It doesn’t compromise. Because you don’t compromise.



2014 Audi A6 TDI
The Audi A6 TDI delivers it all: impressive power, cutting-edge technology, a beautifully crafted interior. It commands attention and has the details to keep it.



2014 Audi A8
An unrivaled level of luxury, craftsmanship and performance, the A8 takes your arrival and turns it into a statement.



2014 Audi RS7
Pure performance. Impressive style. The RS7 captures all the senses and inspires. But you were never one to take the backseat, either.





See Audi Michiana for more information

2015 Volkswagen Touareg: Keeping it smart

The reviews are in on the 2016 Touareg and the critics are raving. Volkswagen didn't have to make too many changes on this model but when a crossover is this impressive, you don't have to.


The overall redesign is subtle. Exterior details such as the grille and front end have been molded to carefully mimic VW's auto line. To give the Touareg a more conventional crossover look, it has been given a slightly wider body, longer wheel body, longer wheelbase and length. It also provides greater functionality. More space!


The Touareg has some great SUV-like features: standard 4MOTION all-wheel drive, a rated towing capacity of 7,716 pounds, hands-free liftgate, and more than 6 inches of fore/aft travel with the split folding rear seat...


Read more at Gurley Leep Motorwerks: 2015 Volkswagen Touareg, Still Smart

Never Compromise: The All-New 2015 Audi A3 Cabriolet

When you come to think of it, the all-new 2015 Audi A3 Cabriolet can be considered optimism on display. When driven with the top down, it communicates that you look on the bright side of life. No rain. No worries. The very act of acceleration opens you up to a world and its possibilities.



Not just this, the redesigned A3 Cabriolet is a statement of self-assurance. This is the vehicle for those who do not compromise because it is designed to hold its own beside vehicles with a much larger price tag. Perhaps it’s best to call it happy, but not frivolous, since it is a soft-top. It’s a versatile performer that offers ample interior comforts along with the sensibility of available quattro® all-wheel drive capabilities, should the weather require you to put the top up.



And it is, inside and out, an Audi. From its three-spoke steering wheel to the signature Tornado line bisecting the carriage, there is no mistaking the styling or interior that is distinctly Audi. While the industry’s current trend has been moving toward hard-tops, the choice in making a fabric soft-top has its advantages. One is ample cargo space. As a result of Audi engineering and design, allowing for a soft top provides ample trunk space. It’s also easier to retract and open—a push of a button can raise the roof in as little as 18 seconds at speeds of up to 31 mph. And with a heated rear window, optimized window for sound absorbency and Aluminum-optic trim around the shoulder line, the soft top delivers all-weather performance and style too.



As you can see, the purpose of the 2015 Audi A3 Cabriolet is true. Compromise is not an option. It hasn’t been when it comes to design or function from Audi. And it shouldn’t be with what you choose to drive...


Read more at Audi Michiana

The Audi TT: An Instant Classic

When the first Audi TT made its European debut in 1998, the stars seemed to be in perfect alignment and an iconic sports car was born. Now, sixteen years after that momentous occasion, the third-generation TT stands poised to carry on the tradition.


At the introduction, the original was considered a daring design. A bold, geometric styling, the TT stood out from everything at the time, establishing a reputation as a revolutionary, a truly radical vehicle. Keeping this in mind, the Audi design team worked to keep that spirit alive in the latest incarnation of the TT as they reshaped the icon.


The first impression will be the strong horizontal lines that dominate the front. The new, broader Singleframe® grille flatters the face of the TT, grabbing for immediate attention. The signature four rings have been relocated to the hood, an inspiration taken from the R8. Taking in the rest of the vehicle, you’ll no doubt pick up on influences from the first generation, such as front wheel arches that extend up past the hood line, morph across the doors into a distinctive line that are dubbed the Tornado line, then grace back to the tail. There are subtler details that pay homage to the original such as the fuel filler door, surrounded by socket screws.


One beautiful added element didn’t need to look to the past for inspiration, however: LED lighting. The new TT features distinct LED daytime running lights that not only provide brilliant pinpoints to the complete design, but helps ensure that the TT is visible to other cars on the road.


The interior is just as impressive and features some dramatic changes. The dashboard, inspired by the wing of an aircraft, shows off smooth, pure lines that are echoed through the rest of the vehicle. Numerous details can be found throughout that speak to the intense level of craftsmanship all Audi vehicles are known for. From the redesigned, split gear lever and the precision engagement of the MMI® rotary push button to the finely crafted speaker covers with unique light guides that come with the available Bang & Olufsen® sound system, the details make the sum of the Audi TT even greater than its parts...


Read more at Audi Michiana

Introducing the 2016 GLE-Class Coupe

Bold new style and form is introduced in the 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class Coupe. The newest incarnation combines strong, artistic lines, a striking signature front grille, and a stretched greenhouse, providing a stunning silhouette reminiscent of athletic SUVs.


True to the Mercedes-Benz tradition, performance was kept in careful consideration when engineering the 2016 GLE-Coupe. Powered by an exhilarating 326--hp biturbo V6, the exterior is designed for maximum performance and responsiveness. To personalize your experience further, the DYNAMIC SELECT has five settings allowing customized settings to the engine, steering and efficiency controls, all at the flip of a switch.


The 2016 GLE-Coupe is anticipated to arrive in dealerships late summer 2015.


Learn more at Gurley Leep Motor-Werks

Audi Celebrates #PaidMyDues, Audi A3

Success comes from hard work, resilience and determination. Audi wanted to share these inspirational stories at the #PaidMyDues event this past spring. Held in Santa Monica, the live-stream event was a massive community-driven event, an extension of the "Paid My Dues" campaign that was featured at the debut of the A3.


"The stories we've received so have come from people all over the country," said Andrew Lipman, general manager of communications for Audi of America, New York.


"It's been inspiring to read so many accounts of individuals who have truly paid their dues to achieve success – quitting a job to pursue a lifelong dream, going back to college, overcoming illness. We are excited to see how our creative partners will reimagine these stories..."


Read more at Audi Michiana here

Mercedes-Benz bringing production to AM General, hundreds of jobs to be created

A new job boom is expected in Mishawaka. Hundreds of jobs are expected to be created as Mercedes-Benz has chosen AM General to assemble their R-Class. The SUVs are expected to begin production as soon as summer of 2015.




“Once again, the South Bend area is competing and winning when it comes to manufacturing job growth," said South Bend Mayor Pete Buttigieg. "With its South Bend headquarters and Mishawaka facilities, AM General is continuing to create good-paying jobs for people across the area. Working families are the real winners here, with hundreds of new jobs coming online and our area primed for further innovation and growth. It’s a good day for South Bend, Mishawaka and the surrounding region.”




Read more at Gurley-Leep Motorwerks.