Thursday, January 27, 2011

The 2011 Buick Lucerne: A 21st Century Buick

In the spring and fall when the weather was nice, I would walk home each day from Claude Brown Elementary School to my home on Cap-au-Gris. I was fortunate enough to know Claude Brown and few individuals have contributed as much to the welfare of this community as he did. I was only 6 years old when we met but still remember how much admiration I had for him growing up. He was extremely intelligent and articulate on one hand and yet very gentle and caring on another. They named the school after him for good reason.

My route home each day took me down Main Street to the corner of Cap-au-Gris where Mordt Tractor was on one corner and Phil Beck Motors was on the other. Each day as I began to turn the corner I was drawn like a magnet to the row of shiny new Buicks. Every young boy loves cars but I was just totally enchanted by the Buicks.

Each day I would stop and admire them close up for a few minutes. I could see members of the staff laugh and point sometimes but I didn’t care. My few minutes with that row of cars each day was my moment of Zen, nothing in the world at the time meant as much to me. Soon I would realize that if I stayed any longer I would be in trouble for not coming home so, I would do double time up Cap-au-Gris to my home. At age 6, I thought they were the best cars in the world and age 60+, I still do.

The 2011 Buick Lucerne continues the legacy of the classic Buick yet, this is a vehicle for the 21st Century in every way. Carrying the name Buick means Lucerne has been well thought out with every line polished, every technology purposefully precise Lucerne was designed and engineered to form a more intelligent luxury sedan. Not show-off smart, just life-enhancing, premium, easy-to-use technologies.

Its standard FlexFuel 3.9L 227-hp V-6 engine runs on gasoline or E85, a blend of 85 percent ethanol and 15 percent gasoline. The second option is the available all-aluminum 32-valve Northstar 4.6L V-8 powering the Lucerne Super model. Its legendary status is proven with 292 hp and quick acceleration with plenty of reserve power. They’re both mated to a smooth-shifting, electronically tuned 6-speed automatic transmission. For the ultimate in convenience, Lucerne can be started from nearly 200 feet away with an available remote starter system.

Being behind the wheel of the Lucerne Super model means Magnetic Ride Control is working for you. It speed-reads the road up to 1,000 times per second, adjusting damper settings to heighten wheel contact, giving you tight handling and a fluid ride—something Infiniti G37 or Lexus ES 350 can’t do.

Dynamic handling also comes from the four-wheel independent suspension with full-range traction control and StabiliTrak, an electronic stability control system. StabiliTrak constantly monitors Lucerne to help retain traction and assist you in maintaining your steering path for optimal control.

Don’t let the art-deco-inspired analog clock fool you. We gave Lucerne all the latest tech smarts you need to find whatever you’re searching for. To help guide you, the available voice and touch-screen activated DVD Navigation System offers nearly 7 million miles of North American roads. XM NavTraffic2 incorporates real-time road conditions right into your NAV screen, directing you around trouble spots and toward the most efficient route. And while you’re on the road, keep your hands on the wheel thanks to Bluetooth connectivity.
You’ll also find OnStar, which comes standard for six months, featuring guided Turn-by-Turn Navigation. Choose the previously mentioned NAV system, andOnStar Destination Download sends directions to your screen without stopping or entering anything. Or use eNav to find your destination online at MapQuest® and have it sent to Lucerne’s OnStar system. You will also find leather-appointed seating with French stitching and perforated suede insets. Buick’s QuietTuning process reduces, blocks and absorbs noise and vibration to help keep outside noises outside providing a sense of security and well being.

Those are emotions not often associated with a visit to a car dealership but, that’s exactly what you get when you arrive at Marquitz Buick Cadillac GMC in Troy, Missouri. The Marquitz team has the highest possible standards of customer service and strives to exceed those standards every day. Each and every Marquitz associate is dedicated to making sure you have the finest purchase and ownership experience possible. That begins with taking the time to find out what your needs are, and striving to match you with the vehicle that fulfills all of them.

Everyone from sales associate to service adviser will treat you like a friend and neighbor each and every time. Marquitz prices Buick vehicles more aggressively that any dealer I’ve seen so, when you get down to the numbers, no one will work harder to get you more for your trade-in and get to a payment that works for you. Stop by and see the new class of world-class in the 2011 Buick Lucerne at Marquitz Buick Cadillac GMC in Troy, Mo.

And if you see a tall man with silver hair standing in front of the new Buicks and staring at them like a little boy, it’s just me having my moment of Zen.

Tuesday, January 18, 2011

The 2011 Cadillac SRX

Shortly after I began dating my wife Patricia, I looked in the old garage behind her house one evening while she was still getting ready for our date and, much to my amazement, I saw a bright Red 1967 Cadillac De Ville 2-Door Hardtop. I asked her about it and she said it was her daily driver for many years but one day when it needed repair, her previous husband took it apart and had no idea how to put it back together. The ’67 Cady remained in the garage until one day when her father came from Oregon for a visit. He immediately asked me if I had any tools and the next day I brought him everything I had.

While Trish and I were at work each day he would go back to the garage and work on the Caddy. I really didn’t believe he would get it running because I had seen the piles of parts in the trunk and around the garage. A few evenings later I pulled up to the house to find Trish and her dad sitting in the front seat of the Caddy honking at me.

The first ride in that Caddy was really something. The red leather interior was still in great shape and within a few blocks I realized that car was a parade all by itself. Everyone stopped what they were doing and waved or honked. We decided that it probably wasn’t realistic to make the car her daily driver again since she would have put in a lead additive every time she filled it up, so she advertised it and sold it to a collector that was going to do a full restoration.

As he drove off in the car I asked my wife-to-be why she was crying and she said, ”it was y first Caddy, you have no idea how wonderful that car made me feel.” Since then I have had the pleasure of owning a Cadillac, so finally know exactly what she was talking about.

The 2011 Cadillac SRX is definitely a vehicle to inspire those kind of feelings. The SRX is the Cadillac of crossovers. A fusing of dramatic presence, advanced technology and flexible storage space, all crafted to the highest level of detail. Powered by an advanced direct-injected or available turbocharged engine, and offering a handcrafted interior that pampers both driver and passengers. This is a new standard for luxury crossovers.

When it comes to the SRX, performance means many things. The StabiliTrak electronic stability control automatically engages braking and modulates engine power to help the driver stay on course. And the available advanced all-wheel drive system employs an electronic limited slip differential which provides enhanced control while cornering.

Inside the SRX, advanced technology and craftsmanship come together like never before. This is a carefully handcrafted cabin, accented by exquisite French stitching, available Sapele wood trim, fingertip steering wheel mounted controls and available interior ambient lighting. Incorporating amenities like a Bose® premium sound system, iPod connectivity, and an available hard drive with 10GB for music storage, glide-up touch screen navigation, and Bluetooth® phone connectivity, the 2011 Cadillac SRX makes the most of your driving experience. A power liftgate with memory allows you to open the liftgate to any pre-programmed height, and close it, at the touch of a button.


Engine options include a 3.0L direct injection V6, or an available 2.8L turbocharged V6 with ECO mode to alter transmission shift points and maximize fuel efficiency. Direct injection technology combined with Variable Valve Timing, delivers the perfect balance of impressive power and fuel efficiency. The 6-speed automatic transmission incorporates Driver Shift Control, which allows smooth manual gear changes without the use of a clutch pedal.

The Memory Seating option recalls settings for two drivers, including driver’s seat position, adjustable pedals, outside mirrors and other personal preferences. Keyless access is an available feature that allows convenient passive vehicle entry. Once programmed, the remote unlocks all five doors when carried near the vehicle and locks them as you walk away. An available UltraView sunroof spans front and rear seats and features a sliding glass panel and power sunshade.

If you’re hauling any kids, I recommend the rear-seat DVD Entertainment System with dual seat-mounted flip-up diagonal screens, wireless headphones and remote, it provides diversion for passengers in back. A rearview camera is viewable via an LCD screen in the rearview mirror or on the navigation screen, when equipped.

The best place I know of to see and drive the 2011 Cadillac SRX is Marquitz Buick Cadillac GMC in Troy, Missouri. The Marquitz team has the highest possible standards of customer service and strives to exceed those standards every day. Each and every Marquitz associate is dedicated to making sure you have the finest purchase and ownership experience possible. That begins with taking the time to find out what your needs are, and striving to match you with the vehicle that fulfills all of them.

Everyone from sales associate to service adviser will treat you like a friend and neighbor each and every time. Marquitz prices Cadillac vehicles more aggressively that any dealer I’ve seen so, no one will work harder to get you more for your trade-in and get to a payment that works for you. Stop by today and see the 2011 Cadillac SRX at Marquitz Buick Cadillac GMC in Troy, Mo.

Friday, January 14, 2011

The All-New 2011 Buick LaCrosse: An Adrenaline Rush

I must begin by admitting that I’ve been a die-hard Buick fan ever since I fell in love with the Grand Sport convertible in the late ‘60s. Once I grew out of my desire for a muscle car, Buick became the vehicle in that sweet-spot between luxury and real common sense. They’re stylish, sophisticated vehicles that, at the same time, deliver unmistakable value.

It wasn’t so long ago I put truck springs on my ’93 Roadmaster station wagon and hauled everything from as many sheets of drywall as the back would hold to a full load of gravel on top of a tarp. No one is harder on a vehicle than I am, and Buick has always come through for me. At 175,000 miles I traded in the station wagon but, since then I have talked to Roadmaster owners that have driven theirs for 250,000 and over 350,000 miles. Now I’m never surprised to hear how far someone has driven their Buick.

When I look at the all-new 2011 LaCrosse I see a vehicle that has redefined world-class in every way; it’s a visual knock-out and a technological marvel. Both the interior and exterior have sculptured lines the Europeans haven’t even thought of yet. My wife Patricia and I are both artists, so we can appreciate the truly phenomenal design innovations both inside and outside this new LaCrosse. It’s a work of art on wheels and then some.

You could pay $70,000, $80,000 even $100,000 for a vehicle this technologically advanced but why would you when the new LaCrosse is tens of thousands less. I don’t believe it’s possible to get more for your vehicle dollar than you do in the new LaCrosse. Even standing still this vehicle will move you.

The Ice Blue Ambient lighting in the interior is nothing less than enchanting. This is one of the most elegant interiors I have ever seen. Every possible option is available in the LaCrosse but the real hook is the unbelievable ride. The six speed automatic moves through the gears so effortlessly you probably won’t even stop to consider how much it is saving you on gas.

My wife is a real fan of the available remote start and heated front drive and passenger seat because we rarely have room to get a car in the garage and everyone knows how cold it gets on a snowy January morning. The available all-wheel drive will come in handy on those days as well.

The headrest mounted available dual DVD players are neatly tucked away when the kids aren’t with you but are a life saver on a trip of any length. I think the OnStar stolen vehicle assist and vehicle slowdown are like insurance and fire extinguishers. You hope you never need them but you’re happy to have them everyday.

The LaCrosse comes with either a 182 horsepower four-cylinder or a 280 horsepower V-6. I have always been a fan of the General Motors V-6 power plant because it delivers the fuel efficiency associated with 4-cylinder motors not that long ago but it has the power you would only expect from a V-8.

Being a V-6 fan, I was really amazed at the acceleration you get with the 4-cylinder. No problem getting on the highway or passing in this baby. As gas prices continue to rise, it could quickly convert me to the more economical 4-cylinder platform.

When you start thinking about driving the all-new 2011 Buick LaCrosse, think about the folks at Marquitz Buick Cadillac GMC in Troy, Missouri. The Marquitz team is always knowledgeable, friendly and professional. They know the vehicles in and out and in my experience, no one will work harder to get to a payment that works for you and send you home in a new Buick, Cadillac or GMC. They’re not out to take advantage of you like some of those guys in the city. Marquitz will treat you like a friend and neighbor every time and hat’s why they have so many return customers.

Thursday, January 13, 2011

No Worries Sales Event

This just in! Marquitz Buick GMC Cadillac is having a “No Worries Sales Event” on GM Certified Pre-Owned vehicles. Incentives were released this morning to feature 1.9% APR financing up to 36 months, and 2.9% APR up to 60 months for qualified buyers. Models include the Chevrolet Silverado, Impala, Malibu, GMC Sierra, http://www.marquitzmotors.com/VehicleDetails/certified-2008-GMC-Acadia-FWD_4dr_SLT1-Troy-MO/787252143, Buick Enclave, and the Pontiac G6. Our GM Certified Pre-Owned inventory can be searched online.

One of the highest accolades we can give a pre-owned vehicle is the status of GM Certified. In order to receive that honor, an automobile must first pass a 117-point inspection, be a 2006 or newer model, and have fewer than 75,000 miles. The benefit to you the customer is that GM can provide two great warranties, a free vehicle history report, and much more. After purchasing a GM Certified Pre-Owned vehicle you will feel more secure, and satisfied than any other used vehicle.

These special rates are only available until February 28th, 2011, and vehicle selections are limited. Hurry in today for a test drive before time runs out!

Sunday, January 2, 2011

GM Certified Pre-owned Vehicles: Peace-Of-Mind at a far More Modest Price.

There’s an old blues song I like with a line in the lyrics that goes, “If I ever get my hands on a dollar again, I’m gonna’ squeeze it… ‘till the eagle grins”. We’ve seen some difficult times lately, times that in some ways have rivaled the Great Depression but, hopefully, everyone is working to make sure it doesn’t take as long to recover this time.

In good times and some that weren’t so good, people living in around Lincoln County have never had a dollar that wasn’t hard earned and firmly in their grip. Every time I hear someone use the term “disposable income” I have to laugh and say,“ where I come from there’s no such thing”.

I don’t know about you, but for me having dependable transportation has always been the cornerstone of having my life somewhat under control. It provides priceless piece-of-mind that seems to keep me grounded. I can remember when the only logical reason to trade vehicles was that the vehicle you were currently driving was no longer dependable. Now people trade for a number of logical reasons that go beyond the break-down. You may use your car for business and your old one doesn’t present the best image to your clients. You may have had married and had twins since you purchased and the 2-seater just doesn’t work anymore. Maybe your old vehicle gets poor gas mileage and buying a newer, more efficient one makes better long term financial sense.

Whatever your reason for wanting to trade, I would advise you to seriously consider a GM Certified Pre-owned vehicle from Marquitz Buick Cadillac GMC in Troy, Missouri. A Certified Pre-owned vehicle can provide the priceless piece-of –mind that comes from having a highly dependable vehicle and fit into almost any car shopping budget category.

A General Motors certified pre-owned vehicle receives a 117 point inspection and expert reconditioning from the Marquitz team of factory certified technicians. Every Certified Pre-owned vehicle comes with a 12 month/12,000 mile bumper to bumper warranty and the balance of the 5 year/100,000 mile powertrain warranty. That makes any GM Certified Pre-owned vehicle a much better choice than your run-of-the-mill used car.

You also get 24-hour roadside assistance and courtesy transportation so, you’re never stuck in the unlikely event that you do have an issue. Satisfaction is a given with the 3-day, 150-mile exchange program and every Certified Pre-owned vehicle comes with a Carfax Vehicle History Report. This is important because there are dealers out there that will fix up a wreck and tell you it’s a low miles little-old-lady car that only left the garage to go to church on Sunday.

It’s amazing what a good body shop and detailer can do these days but, if the car had repaired frame damage you may never be able to properly align the wheels again and have to replace your tires almost as often as you change the oil. When you choose a GM Certified Pre-owned vehicle you eliminate a world of potential worry because if isn’t right or has had an issue in its past, it will not qualify to be a GM Certified Pre-owned vehicle.

Another great thing about GM Certified Pre-Owned vehicles is that in most cases they qualify for new vehicle financing. That can mean a lower rate over a longer term and lower payments. Lower payments means you may be able to qualify for a better vehicle than you expected.

If you want a great selection of GM Certified vehicles to choose from, I would recommend Marquitz Buick, Cadillac GMC in Troy, Missouri. Each and every Marquitz associate is dedicated to making sure you have the finest purchase and ownership experience possible. That begins with taking the time to find out what your needs are, and striving to match you with the vehicle that fulfills all of them.

No one will work harder to get you more for your trade-in and get to a payment that works for you. Currently they’re offering 1.9% financing for up to 60 months on a GM Certified Pontiac G6’s. In my experience, you can’t beat the Marquitz team and a GM Certified Pre-owned vehicle. That’s a win-win and both of the wins are for you. Stop by Marquitz Buick Cadillac GMC in Troy, Missouri today and check out their selection of GM Certified Pre-owned vehicles.

Saturday, January 1, 2011

Happy New Year!

Welcome to 2011! This will be the year for growth and new beginnings at Marquitz Buick Cadillac GMC. In the upcoming months we will strive to continue making the customer our top priority. We will be introducing some exciting products and services to our clients. You can look forward to great incentives, and continued quality from Buick, Cadillac, and GMC!


Happy New Year!

- Marquitz Buick Cadillac GMC