Lauren Wants To Know

Safety first!

When purchasing a vehicle for you and your family, safety is a major concern. What are some of the standard safety features in the brands that McCarthy carries? Here’s a short list for you:

Chevrolet

• Six airbags – dual front & side impact airbags
• 4-wheel anti-lock brakes – to keep you from sliding out of control
• On-Star – if your airbags go off, emergency response is contacted immediately
• Front & Rear crush zones – to absorb energy from the impact
• Energy-absorbing steering column and laminated windshield safety glass

Hyundai

• Electronic Stability Control – keep you on the intended path when in trouble
• 5 years of Roadside Assistance – no need for AAA
• Six airbags – two in front, two curtain, and two side
• Anti-lock brakes
• XM Navigation Traffic – let you know of any blocked or congested roads

Nissan

• VDC – Vehicle Dynamic Control – can’t do a donut in the parking lot
• Crumple Zone – absorbs energy from front & rear to reduce impact in cabin
• Active Headrests – headrest will move with head to reduce whip lash
• ABS – Anti-lock Brake System – helps control steering while stopping

Always remember to buckle up!

Remote start baby!

I don’t want to brag, but I have been blessed with the opportunity to test drive a large variety of vehicles out there. For the last 9 years that I’ve been driving, I have probably driven over a hundred different cars, trucks, SUVs and convertibles — all with different features. And with all the variety … I think I’ve been spoiled!

I’m curious: When it comes to car features, what’s your deal breaker? What can you not live without on or in your vehicle?

I wanted to know what my fellow employees had to say … “A steering wheel!” “The gas pedal!” After I made the “duh” face, I searched for some serious answers.

“Power locks and windows” and “air conditioning” were high on the list. My answer has gotta be “seat warmers” and “automatic start.” Greatest features in my opinion, especially with the winter we had this year.

So tell me … what are some features you absolutely can’t live without in your vehicle? Anything that is making your life easier?

Booty Warmers!!!

The ability to drive itself. A rear camera for backing up. Power windows. One-touch folding seats. An MP3 player plug-in. Automatic Remote Start.

Imagine that! If you could have one feature on your car, that it currently doesn’t have … what would it be? Whether it’s realistic or not doesn’t matter. This is your chance for the car of your dreams.

Vehicles have come a long way. Just like anything else. Can you remember your first cell phone? I sure remember my mother’s! Finally, I had to force her to turn in her Zack Morris “Saved by the Bell” foot-long flip phone. And, boy was she thrilled! It can now fit in a cute clutch!

So tell me … What’s one feature you would like to have on your vehicle, that it doesn’t have now?