A lightly camouflaged 2012 MINI Cooper Coupe appeared at the MINIsOnTop event, giving MINI fans an up-close and personal look at the newest car to carry the MINI name. Sharing an engine and performance enhancement options with the 2011 MINI Cooper, the MINI Cooper Coupe ditches the back seats in favor of a stylish sloped roof covering a small parcel shelf, making it a MINI that is even more mini.

“The MINI Cooper Coupe gives the growing crowd of MINI fans a fresh take on the MINI design, one that’s aimed at taking the car’s performance up a notch,” said Marshal Cabot, general manager of Greater Boston MINI dealer MINI of Peabody. “There’s no mistaking that it’s a MINI, but at the same time it has a very different look than the Cooper we’ve come to know and love. It will be a great car for young Massachusetts drivers that want quick bursts of speed and more of that signature go-kart grip.”

The three different trims of the MINI Cooper Coupe will include the base Cooper Coupe, the Cooper Coupe S and the John Cooper Works Coupe. Each trim will come equipped with the same 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine found in the Cooper hatchbacks, but their streamlined shape will make them swifter than their fellow MINIs. The base Coupe comes with 121 horsepower, goes from zero to 60 mph in 8.3 seconds and reaches a top speed of 127 mph. Equipped with a twin-scroll turbocharger, the Coupe S uses 181 horsepower to reach 60 mph in 6.5 seconds and a top speed of 142 mph. The John Cooper Works Coupe turns the wick up even more with 208 horsepower, a zero-to-60 mph time of 6.1 seconds and a top speed of 149 mph, which will make it the fastest MINI on the showroom floor.

The Coupe is based on the Cooper Convertible, but has a further swept-back windshield and a lower roofline that makes it more aerodynamic. The rear of the roof tapers down to what appears to be a trunk, but in fact the Coupe operates similarly to a hatchback, with the whole rear section of the car opening up. There’s also an automated rear spoiler which deploys at around 50 mph, or which can be manually controlled to provide more down-force and stable handling.

While the word “sporty” may be on the minds of most people looking to buy a MINI Cooper Coupe, its cargo space makes it more practical than it might seem. The Coupe actually has more cargo room than existing Coopers with the rear seats up, and there is a pass-through that will allow things like skis or golf clubs up to 67-inches long to fit without bothering the passengers.

“MINIs are all about fun behind the wheel for a wide group of people,” Cabot noted. “That means there are a variety of MINIs to choose from, including the Cooper Hardtop, Cooper Convertible, Countryman, Clubman, and now the Cooper Coupe. It’s opening up the brand to more people, and we think the Coupe will be an exciting new addition to the family.”

About MINI of Peabody:
Since 2002, MINI of Peabody has been the leading source for new and used MINI vehicles in Northern New England. Their dedication to professional, friendly customer service allowed them to win the 2009 MINI Motoring Cup, a national award presented to the dealership that has the highest sales and customer satisfaction. Their brand new location in Peabody offers a state-of-the art service center and an expanded selection of MINI parts and accessories. See their MINI inventory or schedule a service appointment at www.minipeabody.com, call (877) 212-9727, like them on at www.facebook.com/miniofpeabody or visit their new showroom at 209 Andover Street (Route 114) in Peabody, Mass.

Media Contact:
Lori Connolly, of Lyon-Waugh Auto Group, 978-532-8312

BMW already preaches “Don’t Txt & Drive” at its BMW Performance Center in Spartanburg, South Carolina, where it hosts its Teen Driving School using BMW 3 Series cars to teach car control to budding drivers. During the summer, BMW’s safe-driving campaign will be rolled out to the more than 100 teen driving schools run by the BMW Club of America Foundation in the hope of reaching an impressionable and high-risk group of drivers. Teen texting behind the wheel is currently widespread, with 87 percent of teen drivers admitting to the behavior, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

“Anybody that drives in Massachusetts knows that distracted driving is a serious issue,” said Marshal Cabot, general manager of Massachusetts BMW dealer BMW of Peabody. “Massachusetts has laws prohibiting texting while driving, but it’s still prevalent. Younger drivers just don’t recognize how dangerous it can be, so hopefully BMW’s ad campaign will open some eyes.”

Statistics from the United States Department of Transportation reveal that nearly 5,500 people died in crashes caused by distracted drivers in 2009, and distracted driving has become a cornerstone issue for U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood, who has made it a priority to meet with automakers to discuss the issue.

BMW’s television ad for the campaign has started circulating, featuring overprotective parents and pointing out how their efforts can be undone in an instant by answering a phone call or replying to a text while driving. Various print ads reproduce the view from a distracted driver’s perspective, with one showing a phone preventing a driver from seeing a child running to catch a ball in the road. Participating websites will feature the phrase “Text Messaging Is Very Distracting” across their homepages in bold block letters, which should prove inconvenient enough to get BMW’s point across.

BMW’s commitment to end distracted driving reaches beyond the ad campaign. The German automaker is also designing its car interiors to help drivers keep their eyes on the road. Using data collected through pupilometry, which closely studies eye movements, BMW has been able to move important and commonly used controls and displays to areas that allow drivers to keep their attention on the road ahead.

“Automakers and drivers alike have a responsibility to fight distracted driving, and BMW is doing its part,” Cabot added. “Every year, automakers are adding more features and displays, but they also need to stress that there are limits to multitasking while driving. Eliminating texting behind the wheel is a big step in the right direction.”

About BMW of Peabody:
Located minutes from downtown Boston on Route 114, BMW of Peabody takes pride in offering some of the world’s finest vehicles, backing up every new and used BMW sale with their expert, customer-focused sales and service staff. Recognized as a top Greater Boston BMW dealer, BMW of Peabody is a five-time winner of the prestigious Center of Excellence Award and offers two BMW service centers to fit the schedules of its busy customers. See their full BMW inventory online at www.bmwpeabody.com, like them on Facebook at www.facebook.com/bmwofpeabody , visit their showroom at 221 Andover Street in Peabody or call them at 978-538-9900.

Media Contact:
Lori Connolly, of Lyon-Waugh Auto Group, 978-532-8312

The Dynamic Music function in version 2.0 of the MINI Connected iPhone App contains a broad selection of exclusive music that is adjusted in rhythm and dynamic range based on the longitudinal and lateral acceleration of the vehicle. This means that MINI drivers cruising in a straight line at consistent speeds on the flatlands of Nebraska, for example, may hear songs with a steady beat, while drivers hugging turns on the Pacific Coast Highway may hear something a little more spontaneous. Available for download in iTunes, the latest version of the MINI iPhone app will work in any MINI Cooper fitted with the MINI Connected option in the MINI navigation system or MINI Visual Boost radio.

“The Dynamic Music function adds a fun, dramatic element to the MINI driving experience, and it’s just one of the many intuitive features that customers can enjoy when they use MINI Connected,” said Marshal Cabot, general manager of MINI of Peabody. “Plus, if Massachusetts MINI drivers get a little too speed hungry with the inspirational music, the new Mission Control function in the iPhone app can interject with some safety advice to slow things down.”

The Mission Control function for MINI Connected takes a variety of factors into account, such as vehicle efficiency, fuel amounts, outside temperature and surrounding environment to issue driving advice by voice on a number of topics. Mission Control is loaded with a wide pool of comments, ranging from safety belt reminders to tips on air conditioning use, and is designed to avoid repetitive tips. Additionally, users can preset the type of advice offered, whether it is on safety, comfort or fuel efficiency.

Drivers can also use the MINI Connected iPhone App to access their own music and video libraries, as well as Facebook, Twitter and Google search. Eliminating the temptation to take eyes off the road, Twitter feeds can be communicated through the MINI’s voice control and Facebook posts can be composed with preset templates that indicate a driver’s location and arrival time at a destination. The video playback function keeps with this theme of safety by only working when the car is in park.

Beyond playing personal music collections and Dynamic Music tracks, MINI Connected can also turn to the fully integrated Pandora app for personalized web radio. Users of the Pandora app can set music stations based on a favorite artist or song like they would on the Pandora website, and now they can set their own customized comedy stations as part of a new Pandora feature. As the only automaker that offers in-vehicle station creation for Pandora, the BMW Group gives BMW and MINI owners the exclusive ability to control the type of comedy they hear from Pandora while in their car.

“The entertainment and communications technology that is now available in each MINI Cooper is far above anything offered in its segment, and unique options like being able to set your own Pandora stations help set it apart from other smartphone-synching technologies on the market,” Cabot added. “The flexibility of lifestyle that MINI Connected offers fits the nimble, efficient drive of MINI Coopers perfectly.”

About MINI of Peabody:
Since 2002, MINI of Peabody has been the leading source for new and used MINI vehicles in Northern New England. Their dedication to professional, friendly customer service allowed them to win the 2009 MINI Motoring Cup, a national award presented to the dealership that has the highest sales and customer satisfaction. Their brand new location in Peabody offers a state-of-the art service center and an expanded selection of MINI parts and accessories. See their MINI inventory or schedule a service appointment at www.minipeabody.com, call (877) 212-9727, like them on at www.facebook.com/miniofpeabody or visit their new showroom at 209 Andover Street (Route 114) in Peabody, Mass.

Media Contact:
Lori Connolly, of Lyon-Waugh Auto Group, 978-532-8312

As viewers make choices during “Being Henry,” they are also unknowingly building their ideal Evoque based on how they react to subtle situational, emotional and color-based references. With three uniquely-designed models to choose from, the option of a five-door or coupe, and several combinations of exterior and interior themes and finishes, the Evoque will offer a level of customization never before available at Land Rover dealers. Viewers can see how their own personalized Evoque turns out at http://www.helloevoque.com/beinghenry .

“The traditional look of a Land Rover or Range Rover is iconic, but customers now have the chance to really incorporate their personal tastes into the look of their Evoque, and the new film highlights this really well,” said Dave Edwards, general manager at Land Rover Peabody. “Both the film and the Evoque appeal to a new demographic that wants both sustainability and choice in the products they buy.”

The most fuel-efficient and sustainable Range Rover to date, the Evoque features a turbocharged two-liter four-cylinder engine that still kicks out a healthy 240 horsepower and 241 pound-feet of torque. The Evoque will accelerate from 0-60 mph in 7.6 seconds, which Land Rover says is as fast as their V8-powered vehicles.

The Range Rover Evoque will be inheriting the title of Land Rover’s most fuel-efficient vehicle from the Land Rover LR2 SUV, which is expected to remain a favorite among off-road purists that want to save a bit more on fuel. The 250,000th LR2 was produced this past March at Land Rover’s Halewood assembly line in the United Kingdom amid strong global sales.

When it comes to driving performance and technologies, the Evoque and LR2 don’t sacrifice much compared to their larger Range Rover and LR4 brethren. All-wheel drive is standard on both vehicles, while Land Rover’s Terrain Response system allows drivers to tackle whatever road conditions New England can throw at them with a turn of a dial.

“Both the Evoque and the LR2 meet the modern needs of buyers, but on different levels,” Edwards added. “While the LR2 offers better gas mileage to customers that still want legendary off-road handling, the Evoque brings all-around performance to city dwellers or weekend warriors that may have never considered a Range Rover before.”

About Land Rover Peabody:
Land Rover Peabody is home to a remarkable group of off-road enthusiasts who know exactly what their customers expect in Land Rover sales and service. They’re proud to offer the latest Land Rover models, as well as unparalleled Land Rover service and OEM parts, and they invite new customers to take a test drive on their unique demonstration course to experience Land Rover performance firsthand. Browse their selection online at www.roverpeabody.com, visit the showroom at 247 Newbury St. in Peabody, MA, like them on Facebook at www.facebook.com/landroverpeabody or call them at 978-535-9200.

Media Contact:
Lori Connolly, of Lyon-Waugh Auto Group, 978-532-8312

Featured prominently in the movie, the 2012 Acura TL will be a major focus of Acura’s promotions in the weeks leading up to the May 6 release of “Thor.” For those drivers who want high-performance handling in any weather condition, Acura is touting the new all-wheel drive TL SH-AWD. The SH-AWD is able to shift 70 percent of its power to the rear wheels and then 100 percent of the shifted power to the right or left wheel, providing the amazing cornering S.H.I.E.L.D. agents need in high-speed chases.

“The Acura TL is an excellent automobile for an action movie, and I’m really excited to see what the professional drivers can do with all of the TL’s firepower,” said Joel Avery, general manager of Acura of Peabody. “The sleek design mixed with raw power and cutting-edge technology make it a savvy vehicle for saving the day. It’s sure to turn heads in both movie theaters and neighborhoods across the United States.”

In the film, the S.H.I.E.L.D. TL is equipped for chasing down villains with S.H.I.E.L.D. emblems in its custom paint, a “sound cannon” ratcheted to the roof and flashing lights. On the road, Greater Boston Acura enthusiasts will find the TL’s balance of power and elegance perfect for chasing down memorable drives. Under the hood, the TL SH-AWD’s 3.7-liter V6 engine pushes the envelope of high performance, while the TL sedan’s standard 3.5-liter V6 keeps relaxing drives through the countryside smooth and highway-weaving commutes sharp and responsive. The TL’s speed-sensing steering and independent four-wheel suspension gives drivers a commanding feel for the road in all conditions.

Unlike some superheroes, the TL isn’t only about muscle. With an interior featuring leather-trimmed, heated sport seats, drivers will find themselves wanting to take the long road home. The TL’s iPod compatibility will provide a perfect soundtrack for thrilling highway drives or jamming out at red lights.

“When a vehicle makes it to Hollywood, you know it has to be impressive. But unlike other cars featured in movies, the TL is a model that is both advanced and affordable,” Avery said. “The great thing about Acura is that it gives regular people the chance to get a taste of real luxury. James Bond’s fancy imports may be out of reach for many buyers, but the Acura TL delivers a similar experience at a much friendlier price.”

About Acura of Peabody:
Thanks to a complete commitment to the Acura Total Luxury Care (TLC) philosophy from the sales, parts and service teams, this dealership has the best customer satisfaction and retention rates of any Acura dealership in the Northeast. They offer an extensive inventory of new and used Acura models, backed by a service center with the most customer loyalty in the Northeast. Visit their website at www.acuraofpeabody.com, like them on Facebook at www.facebook.com/acuraofpeabody, visit their Acura showroom and service center at 233 Andover Street, Peabody, MA, or call them at 888-825-7965.

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Based on survey results from approximately 4,000 U.S. consumers, the PQS found that Land Rover had a 2.5 percent increase in perceived quality during the past year. The results come on the heels of an R.L. Polk survey which found that the brand also enjoyed the highest increase in owner loyalty in 2010, up 8.2 percentage points.

These accolades arrive as buzz builds for the commuter-friendly Range Rover Evoque compact SUV, which is slated for an autumn launch. The Evoque promises to give Rover lovers a versatile, lower-emission SUV that upholds the tradition of performance associated with the Range Rover name. The Evoque was recently named Best Production Car at the 2010 Design Awards at the Geneva Motor Show, earning praise for translating “the brand identity of Range Rover to a smaller, very relevant product.”

Meanwhile, the city-ready Range Rover Sport has consistently proven its reliability and long-term value since its debut in 2005, taking home ALG’s Best Residual Value for luxury midsize utilities in each of the six years it has been on the road.

“The Rover Sport and Evoque represent a new direction for Land Rover, and both models have customers thinking differently about what a Rover can do,” said Dave Edwards, general manager of Greater Boston Land Rover dealer Land Rover Peabody. “In today’s economy, customers are looking at their vehicles from all angles before investing, and factors like monthly fuel savings and resale value matter now more than ever.”

Smaller, lighter and more fuel-efficient than any Range Rover to date, the Evoque combines responsive handling and precise engineering with a number of customizable design options meant to turn heads during city commutes. The Range Rover Sport more closely matches the standard Range Rover’s unrivaled off-road capabilities, while its reduced frame size makes it better suited for the confines of urban driving.

Customers looking to cash in on the superior resale value of a Range Rover Sport, as well as those looking to turn in used Land Rovers to upgrade to the Evoque, are encouraged to bring their vehicles to Land Rover Peabody for a fair appraisal and additional incentives for sales.

“Thanks to new models introduced in recent years and improvements in industry resale reports, there has never been a better time to trade in or sell a Range Rover,” Edwards added. “We’ve seen a big demand for used Range Rover models manufactured during the last five years, and that means that these owners have a lot of leverage when looking for the best resale price available.”

About Land Rover Peabody:
Land Rover Peabody is home to a remarkable group of off-road enthusiasts who know exactly what their customers expect in Land Rover sales and service. They’re proud to offer the latest Land Rover models, as well as unparalleled Land Rover service and OEM parts, and they invite new customers to take a test drive on their unique demonstration course to experience Land Rover performance firsthand. Browse their selection online at www.roverpeabody.com, visit the showroom at 247 Newbury St. in Peabody, MA, like them on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/landroverpeabody or call them at 978-535-9200.

» Lyon-Waugh Auto Group.