Priority Honda of Chesapeake Earns Honda’s Top Dealership Award

Customers of Priority Honda of Chesapeake may already think that their dealership is tops, but for those needing official confirmation, you got it. American Honda Motor Co., Inc. announced Priority Honda of Chesapeake as a recipient of its highest dealership honor for 2009, the President’s Award.

Only a handful of Honda dealerships received the honor in Virginia, so current and new customers of Priority can shop with confidence, knowing that their Honda dealership is one of the best in the state and country due to it’s excellence in all areas of operation. The President’s Award recognizes dealerships for first-class customer service and satisfaction, sales, training and facility operation.

“Earning the Honda President’s Award takes a team of dedicated professionals unwavering in their pursuit of excellence and customer care,” said John Mendel, executive vice president of automobile sales for American Honda. “This year, 118 Honda dealerships are being recognized for their outstanding achievement, including Priority Honda of Chesapeake. We are extremely proud of their accomplishments, and invite you to experience the advantage of doing business with an award-winning Honda dealership.”

Recently added to the Priority family, Priority Honda of Huntersville, located outside of Charlotte, is poised to receive future honors like the President’s Award with its unmatched customer service, extensive selection of inventory, and seamless facility operations. Priority customers wouldn’t expect any less from a company with a strategy that puts customers first.

Honda Incorporates ‘Cool’ into the Odyssey Redesign

Creating Minivan Envy One Family at a Time


As we get older and gain more responsibilities, it happens. We start making purchases based on the practical features of products rather than the ‘cool’ factor. Consider the minivan. Three kids and one on the way likely doesn’t mean the next car will be a two-seater convertible. Fortunately, for you, and other parents of this brave new practical world, Honda is releasing a redesigned Odyssey that will give the families on your block minivan envy.

Earlier this month, a concept version of the 2011 Honda Odyssey was shared at the Chicago Auto Show. That new image is stylish and dare it be said…possibly ‘cool?’ This fourth-generation minivan is 1.4 inches longer yet an inch lower, and has a sleek lightning bolt line along the side that makes the back windows slightly lower than the middle windows, providing a sleeker and sexier look.


The interior doesn’t disappoint with ample storage and seating accommodations, including a second-row bench that fits three child safety seats. Under the hood, the 2011 version will use the same 3.5 liter V6, however will have improved fuel economy due to Honda’s Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) technology, which saves gas by automatically switching to three or four cylinders in low-demand situations. Now, that’s definitely cool.


It’s time to do what you once thought was impossible: to be both practical and cool. Get the new Odyssey on your radar and then in your driveway and set the example. You’ll make those who have been holding on to their SUVs for dear youth, let go. Those who have been touting roominess in their tiny sedans, admit claustrophobia. And lead those who have been putting off the minivan purchase to give in. Very cool.

Designed in California and Ohio, and manufactured in Alabama, the 2011 Odyssey will be available later this year. The Odyssey was the best-selling minivan in the U.S. in 2008 and 2009. Thought your practical side would like to know that. Cool?

Honda Drives Financial and Product Support to Haiti

The Honda family of companies in North America has pledged more than $300,000 to the Red Cross in support of recovery efforts in Haiti. Honda also is donating portable generators, water pumps and other Honda products for use during the humanitarian relief. The company has been in close contact with the Red Cross to determine the greatest current needs, which include support for on-site emergency response teams.

"We want to help address the dire human need that Haiti is experiencing as a result of this disaster," said Tetsuo Iwamura, president and chief executive officer of American Honda Motor Co., Inc., and chief operating officer of Honda's North American region. "Honda has a longstanding relationship with the Red Cross, and we will work continuously with them to assist with the effort to provide much-needed relief."

The $300,000 pledge will be augmented by a company matching gift available at various Honda companies, with funds designated to the Red Cross. Honda will continue to work with the Red Cross to determine growing needs.

For those interested in learning how to help victims of the disaster in Haiti, visit www.redcross.org.

The New Honda CR-Z: Responsibly Hip

The cars we drive can say a lot about our personalities. There are muscle cars, flashy cars, family cars, hand-me down cars, green cars and now there’s a need for a new category titled “responsibly hip cars.” It’s a category for hybrid cars equipped with style and sporty handling. It’s for the kind of car that gets oohs and aahs for its looks but also its fuel efficiency. And, there’s actually only one car that truly qualifies as responsibly hip: the new Honda CR-Z.



“The CR-Z is a personal sport hybrid coupe for people with a spirit of adventure and an elevated sense of responsibility toward the environment,” said John Mendel, executive vice president of sales for American Honda. “It’s the first hybrid designed to maximize style and fun, in addition to efficiency and economy.”



Due to showrooms late this summer, the Honda CR-Z is powered by a 1.5-liter i-VTEC engine with Honda’s compact and lightweight Integrated Motor Assist (IMA) hybrid-electric system. The two-passenger CR-Z introduces a new three-mode drive system that allows the driver to select between Sport, Econ (Economy) and Normal driving modes. This says you’re environmentally-conscious.



Preliminary fuel economy rating estimates are anticipated to be 36 city/38 highway miles per gallon on CVT-outfitted models. Manual transmission models are anticipated to achieve an EPA-estimated fuel economy rating of 31 city/37 highway miles per gallon. This says, again, you’re a green do-gooder.
The Honda CR-Z is not only easy on the road but also easy on the eyes. The exterior’s distinctive wedge form positions the car in a broad forward stance, and the side profile, short wheelbase, and large, wide front grille accents the vehicle’s athletic presence. The high-tech and ergonomically-intuitive interior provide a wrap-around sleek, cockpit-type environment. This says you’ve got good taste.
In addition to being environmentally-conscious and sleek, the CR-Z demonstrates a commitment to safety in its design and construction, with the body structure positioned to protect vehicle occupants in a frontal collision. Additional safety technologies include airbags, active head restraints, an anti-lock braking system, and a tire pressure monitoring system. This says you’re smart.

When you’re looking for an efficient, attractive, safe and economically-sound car, head to Priority for the new Honda CR-Z. Added feature, free of charge, is that fuzzy, warm feeling of making a thoughtful purchase, which by the way says you’re responsibly hip. Other drivers will be green with envy.

Who Is Letting the Dogs Out for the Holidays? Priority Automotive Is.

Scooby would be proud. And Snoopy too. This holiday season, Priority Automotive has offered to pay all adoption fees for dogs at local shelters, adopted between now and Christmas. The average adoption cost for a dog is approximately $195, which pays for shots, spaying and other necessary expenses. Priority’s offer will allow families who may not have the funds to adopt a hound, to bring one home for the holidays.

“This is a very generous offer and the timing is perfect,” said Sharon Adams Executive Director of the Virginia Beach SPCA. “When we got the call from Dennis Ellmer, we were ecstatic to realize that a lot of these animals will now have a home for Christmas. We expect to see a lot of families at the shelter who will go home with a very happy pet and at no cost to the adopting family.”

All you have to do is show up at a participating shelter and let them know you’re making a dog a priority this holiday season. Adoption costs will be paid by Priority. So, go ahead and start brainstorming names for the newest member of the family. Perhaps Spike, Muffin, Brownie or Pepper will do. It couldn’t be a better time to bring man’s best friend home. After all, it’s a doggone good deal…ruff.

Participating shelters include Virginia Beach SPCA, Norfolk SPCA and Chesapeake Animal Control.

If Life is a Highway, Better Buy a Honda.

When choosing life partners, you’re looking for something that lasts. After all, it’s a big commitment. It should be the same with a car. Buying a car is a big investment. And cars do kind of become part of the family. We name them, talk to them and trust our families to ride in them. Fortunately, there’s an easy solution to the car life partner—a Honda.

American Honda Motor Co., Inc. recently received three Residual Value Awards from ALG, a leading provider of data and consulting services to the automotive industry. The 2010 model year awards honored the vehicles in each industry segment that ALG predicts will retain the highest percentage of their original price after a three-year period.

The Accord won the award in the Best Midsize Car category, the Fit was the winner in the Best Compact Car category and the Odyssey prevailed in the Best Minivan category. Since 2001, the Honda brand has earned 20 model awards and six overall brand awards from ALG.

“In a challenging economy, residual value moves up on the list of buyer considerations,” said John Mendel, executive vice president of American Honda Motor Co., Inc. “These ALG awards once again recognize Honda's commitment to offer high-quality products with long-term value.”

Hondas don’t keep winning awards because they’re cute. Not that they aren’t extremely attractive. Drivers like that they maintain their value because they last. Hondas are vehicles that can handle the bumps and potholes of life’s highway. They’re truly in it for the long haul.

Honda Accord Crosstour: Looks Good. Drives Good Too.

“In person, the Accord Crosstour looks downright stylish.”
- Scott Burgess, The Detroit News

“Making its first auto show appearance, the Crosstour was the gem of Honda's exhibit at this past weekend’s 2010 Central Florida International Auto Show.”
- Michael Block, Orlando Auto Examiner

“In its niche, this new crossover is a standout.”
- Jeremy Cato, The Globe and Mail

You may have seen pictures of the new Honda Accord Crosstour. You may have heard about it through the grapevine. For all we know, you may have even talked on the phone. But until you lock eyes, you just won’t know if sparks fly.

Sure, the flowing roofline narrows smoothly into the rear of the vehicle to create an aggressive-looking design. Yes, there’s a unique cargo area that can adapt to large objects that exceed the capacity of a sedan. And, oh boy, does it maximize car-like ride and styling builds, while maintaining increased ride height and all-weather potential.

But don’t just take our word for it. Come to Priority Honda and meet the Honda Accord Crosstour in person. It may be just what you’ve been looking for. And you know it will drive well and be loyal for years. After all, it is a Honda.

First Honda Accord Crosstours Arrive at Chesapeake Dealership.

They arrived about an hour ago. We took a look around the exterior, oohed, ahhed, then we were off.

The reviews are spot on; she drives like a champ. Come see for yourself. We'll lend you the keys if you promise to bring her back.

We're excited to be among the first dealerships in Virginia to be driving the Accord Crosstour. Here are a few pics.



Please feel free to come down and take a look at the Crosstour. We don't think you'll be disappointed.

Look Out for Copy Cats…There’s Only One Priority. Look Out for Copy Cats…There’s Only One Priority.

Imitation is the sincerest flattery so the quote goes. But, what if the imitation isn’t executed flawlessly…or even close to the real thing? Due to Priority Honda’s success in earning and keeping happy customers, there are a lot of dealerships out there trying to copy our Priorities for Life program. And, their portrayal is often, well, less than flattering.

In fact, most dealerships with similar value-added programs had to discontinue them because they couldn’t afford to share those savings with customers. Other dealerships advertise seemingly parallel programs that sound really good but only last for a year. Yikes, scratch that.

At Priority, we based our program on a strong company belief of putting customers first. That’s how we’re able to offer the unmatched Priorities for Life program, which includes oil and filter changes and state inspections for life, and installed parts and engines guaranteed for life—saving customers thousands of dollars. Meow.

It’s no wonder other dealerships want to imitate us. Those copy cats. It’s time to break out the claws. The reality is that there’s only one Priorities for Life program, and it belongs to us. And we’ll continue to pass the savings on to you.

Take Your Mark, Get Set…BUY A HONDA NOW!

The starting flag is waving. You can almost see it, can’t you? Better get your shopping engine revving because now is the best time to buy a car. As the end of year nears, dealers are anxious to clean out their 2009 inventory to make room for the newer models coming from the factory. Also, like with most businesses, sales goals are reviewed at year’s end and dealers want to meet them. These two facts can literally put you in the driver’s seat.

Of course, you don’t want to sit in any seat. You want a Honda. And Priority Honda has new Hondas being sold with big discounts no matter your speed—Accords, Civics, CRVs, Odyssey vans, Pilots, Honda Fits and even the hard-to-get Insights.

At Priority Honda, in addition to getting a better deal now than any other time of the year, you’ll also get Priorities for Life, a package that’s difficult to find anywhere else. The program was created because customers always come in first at Priority. Included benefits are oil and filter changes and state inspections for life, and installed parts and engines guaranteed for life.

This is no blue light special, people. It’s car buying season. You’ve got the green light. Put your pedal to the metal and get to Priority Honda. You’ll drive off the lot feeling like a winner—and have been treated like one too.

A+ Priority Progress Report: Making the Grade.

When we first opened our doors at Priority Honda Huntersville, it was kind of like starting a new school. Will they like us? Will we have friends? Will I make good grades?

Well, it’s progress report time and from all of the feedback we’ve been receiving and the amount of cars driving off of the lot, it appears we’ve made the honor roll. Priority Honda has had a successful start, putting Charlotte area residents in new Hondas everyday.

Maybe it’s because we’re the new kid in school? Or maybe it’s our shiny new looks? Nah. In reality, the Charlotte area has probably given us high marks for our impressive inventory, unique Priorities for Life program, and unmatched customer service.

New and used car buyers receive the Priorities for Life guarantee when they purchase a Priority vehicle. Included benefits are oil and filter changes and state inspections for life, and installed parts and engines guaranteed for life.

Priority Honda Customer Celeste wrote a letter to General Manager Keith Dennis to let him know how appreciative she was of her exceptional experience buying a car at Priority.

Regarding the value-added program, Celeste says, “I did not find one other dealership that offered anything remotely similar; most offered nothing additional – and actually indicated that they had stopped offering incentives such as these because they were such a hassle.”

Maybe those dealerships need to stay after school.

Putting customers first is not just our slogan, it actually happens here at Priority.
Celeste continued in the letter to praise her sales contact by saying, “He was helpful but not pushy, assertive but not coercive, attentive but not annoying. He worked with my work schedule and availability and that was very helpful as well. He knew the product and answered ALL of my questions promptly.”

We love hearing how much Charlotte area customers enjoy the way we do business. But the true test comes when a potential customer turns into a return customer.

Celeste ended her note by sharing, “I need to buy another car in the next year for my son who will begin driving and I definitely plan to return to Priority for that purchase.”

Now, that’s what we call making the grade.

All I Want for Christmas is a Honda Accord Crosstour

The 2010 Honda Accord Crosstour is going to be the Nintendo Wii of this holiday season. If you don’t secure yours now, you may not get one, and it will be a silent night at your house. See, this isn’t a sedan nor is it simply a Crossover Utility Vehicle (CUV); it’s evolved. The Accord Crossover offers CUV attributes while maintaining a premium sedan feel and a sporty, bold appearance.

“Our concept is to broaden the appeal of the Accord line-up by leveraging traditional Accord strengths of fun-to-drive performance and handling while also adapting to dramatic shifts in the light truck marketplace,” said Erik Berkman, vice president of American Honda Motor Co., Inc. “The Accord Crosstour accomplishes that by offering a modern interpretation of a CUV while integrating the refinement and efficiency of a premium sedan.”

Derived from the Accord Sedan, the Accord Crosstour maximizes car-like ride and styling builds, yet maintains increased ride height and all-weather potential. The flowing roofline narrows smoothly into the rear of the vehicle to create an aggressive-looking design, which conceals a unique cargo area that can adapt to large objects that exceed the capacity of a sedan. Just think, the more room for additional presents. Ho. Ho. Ho.

Priority Honda has already placed its order and their shipment will arrive in November. Now is the time to place yours. Roll up to the holiday party with an Accord Crosstour this year and you just may be the jolliest guest there. Merry Christmas to you.

“Cash for Clunkers” Not Too Clunky According to Honda Sales

While the debate rages on in some circles whether the “Cash for Clunkers” program was a success, one thing is clear, the program encouraged more than half a million new-vehicle sales. Not too clunky, huh? Well, it also put more fuel-efficient cars on the road and helped the suffering auto industry when it needed it most. And, Honda had its best August ever, with 161,439 vehicle sales, up 9.9 percent compared with a year ago. Sounds like some nice, unclunkish results.

Two Honda vehicles posted all-time record months: the fuel-efficient Fit with sales of 13,593, up 194.1 percent, and the CR-V with sales of 30,284, up 58.3 percent. Civic posted record August sales, up 49.6 percent to 43,294. The Civic, Accord and Fit were among the top 10 new purchased vehicles under the government program.

“Honda’s August sales speak to the attributes customers were looking for under [the program] and will continue to look for as the economic recovery takes shape,” said John Mendel, executive vice president of American Honda Motor Co. “The challenge will be maintaining this momentum going forward.”

According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, 690,114 new cars were sold along with $2.88 billion in rebate applications submitted through the $3 billion initiative. That makes for a lot less clunking on the road and many more smooth operators. A cha-ching for everyone.

“Cash for Clunkers” most popular new vehicle buys:

1. Toyota Corolla
2. Honda Civic
3. Toyota Camry
4. Ford Focus FWD
5. Hyundai Elantra
6. Nissan Versa
7. Toyota Prius
8. Honda Accord
9. Honda Fit
10. Ford Escape FWD

Life after Cash for Clunkers; Yes, It Exists.

The Cash for Clunkers program has run out of gas. The program, initiated by the government as an economic stimulus and environmentally-friendly effort, offered Americans up to $4,500 if they traded in gas guzzlers on the purchase of more-efficient cars. As of the afternoon of Monday, Aug. 24, the application due date, the Department of Transportation said over 625,000 applications had been filed, for an estimated $2.58 billion in rebates.

Don’t be kicking your hubcap because you couldn’t take part in the Cash for Clunkers program. There’s actually an advantage to being a non-clunker. You’ll get more for your trade in from the car dealer if you act now. Since the traded-in clunkers had to be junked according to government guidelines, there’s a used-car inventory shortage. Car dealers are trying to fill their used-car lots and are willing to give more for a trade in now than earlier this year.

While the Cash for Clunkers program may be over, there’s one program you can always count on at Priority Honda. It’s Priorities for Life, offering oil and filter changes and state inspections, and installed parts and engines guaranteed—for life. That makes trading your vehicle in at Priority an even better deal on top of an already great time to trade.

So, yes, life after cash for clunkers does exist. In fact, it can be pretty sweet if you go to Priority Honda. You’ll be so proud of yourself for your trade-in savings, you may even toot your new horn.

Introducing Priority Honda of Huntersville. Nice to Meet You.

Bonjour. Hola. Yo. Hey. Howdy. There are many ways to say hello. At Priority Honda of Huntersville, we thought the best way to introduce ourselves to the Charlotte area would be with new inventory selection, plentiful used car choices, and a big sale. Not to mention our Priorities for Life program, offering oil and filter changes and state inspections, and installed parts and engines guaranteed—for life. We’ve got Accords, Civics, CRVs, Odyssey vans, Pilots, Honda Fits and even the hard-to-get Insight, all waiting to meet their new owners.

When Honda contacted us to gauge our interest in Priority taking over its Huntersville store, we were flattered, and definitely didn’t want to disappoint when we opened our doors on July 16. Here’s a little background information. We’re a multi-dealership organization based in Chesapeake, Va. and operate Chevrolet, Toyota/Scion, Hyundai, Acura and Honda dealerships in that region and own Priority Toyota/Scion and the Priority Used Car Super Center in Richmond, Va. The company also operates large collision repair centers in Chesapeake and Richmond.

A few words from the president: “We think Priority Honda of Huntersville has as much potential as any dealership that we own, and we’re excited to be here,” said Dennis Ellmer, Priority President. “This dealership is positioned in an ideal location, able to serve most of Charlotte, and placed in the middle of an incredible community of people who fit the Honda buyer profile. One day, this could be the top Honda dealership in the Charlotte area.”

We also are pleased to introduce the Charlotte area to Keith Dennis, the general manager of Priority Honda of Huntersville. Keith was the general manager of Priority Honda in Chesapeake since inception and made the dealership the market leader in 60 days, a title the dealership continues to hold today.

If you know of any hard-working job seekers, tell them to drop by and introduce themselves to Keith. The dealership is now hiring for management, sales, service and staff positions. And, when you drive by, try introducing yourself with a honk. We may just beep back. Helloooooooooo, Huntersville. Nice to meet you.

Cash For Clunkers Plus. Get Up To $9,000 In Savings On A New Honda.

When Pres. Obama signed the Cash for Clunkers bill into law on June 25, Americans looked forward to discounts of up to $4,500 on new cars for the old cars they trade in when the law takes effect on Aug. 1. In an effort to make the exciting program even better, Priority Honda in Chesapeake, Virginia is offering up to double the refund, up to $9,000 off the price of a new car!

CASH FOR CLUNKER PLUS WEBSITE

That’s right, if you have an old car that meets the government’s definition of a clunker, you may qualify for these super savings. The government says a clunker must be less than 25 years old and get 18 mpg or less. To see if your car gets less than 18 mpg, please visit this site: http://www.fueleconomy.gov/feg/sbs.htm.

If the new car you buy gets at least 4 mpg more than your clunker, you get a $3,500 discount. If the gas mileage of your new car is improved by 10 mpg or more, you get a $4,500 discount. And in some cases, Priority will up to double these discounts. This can equate to $9,000 off the price of a new car when using the CARS program plus Cash For Clunkers Plus.

You must hurry to take advantage of the deal because the bill provides $1 billion for the program which will end when the money runs out, and the program is set to end on Nov. 1, with possible changes made to it then.

Supporters of the Car Allowance Rebate System (CARS), the official name for the Cash for Clunkers bill, said it would replace older vehicles with new ones that use less fuel, are safer and pollute less. It will jump start auto sales in the U.S. that have been sluggish during the recent economic slump.

The bill certainly provides a splendid opportunity to purchase a new car at a low price and get rid of the headache of your old junk heap. And Priority can make the opportunity twice as good with your discount doubled.

Come in and take a look at the 2009 Honda Fit, the green car that’s pleasing buyers with its fuel economy, zippy performance and spacious interior, with the Magic Seat. At 27 mpg city and 33 mpg highway, the Fit will give you a great discount. The Fit is already reasonably priced at less than $16,000, so with this great discount you’ll get a fantastic price for a great new car – which you’ll be proud to drive because it’s so clean and green.

A super low price on a new Honda Fit is just one of the great deals available at Priority Honda. Stop by today to plan your new car purchase. And get ready to unload your old clunker!

The redesigned Honda 2009 Fit, for sale at Priority!

Are you a budget conscious consumer or a first time car buyer? You may be interested in a subcompact, which is reasonably priced, gets great gas mileage and is environmentally friendly.

If you’d also like a car that is stylish, roomy and fun to drive, the new Honda Fit is for you.

The 2009 Honda Fit is the updated version of the car that was introduced to America in 2006 and instantly acclaimed as the best of a new breed of subcompacts. Drivers loved the stylish car that handled well, was roomy inside and didn’t guzzle a lot of gas – 27 mpg city and 35 mpg highway.

Why change a winner? “When you’re on a good thing, don’t just stick to it. Make it better,” said Honda’s chief engineer Kohei Hitomi.

What’s better about the 2009 Honda Fit starts with the sleek design, with the windshield moved forward 4.7 inches to create a roomier cabin, plus triangular windows sculpted into the side to improve visibility. These aren’t just stylistic changes, they’re enhanced safety features that earned five-star driver and front seat passenger ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

The roomy cabin is accentuated by the Magic Seat that folds by lifting a lever and pushing the seatback forward, which creates 20.6 cubic feet of cargo space, with a low cargo floor for easy loading.

While we’re discussing new design features let’s not forget the ten cup holders, which provide you and every passenger the opportunity to store perhaps two drinks each in the moving car.

The 2009 Honda Fit is powered by a 1.5 liter, i-VTEC four-cylinder engine that produces 117 horsepower and is quite peppy. It also accelerates quickly, reaching 60 mph in just 8.9 seconds and reaching a top speed of 110 mph. “The Fit holds the road confidently at 80 mph, with surprisingly little engine and road noise,” TheCarConnection.com said.

Steering and handling is also top notch for the new Fit, with power-assisted rack-and-pinion steering that provides a very responsive feel and parking ease.

If you’re a music lover (and who isn’t?) you’ll jive to the Fit’s audio system that plays the radio and your favorite CDs with MP3/Windows Media playback capability on four brilliant sounding speakers, so you get the performance and connectivity options you need to control the sound in your smooth driving environment.

The award-winning 2009 Honda Fit has been named a Top 10 Green Car by Kelly Blue Book and a 10Best by Car and Driver, which “loves the interior’s design, roominess and details.”

With gas prices today inching back up, you’ll value the Fit’s fuel efficiency. But that’s only one reason to drive the 2009 Honda Fit. The redesign has made it safer and roomier while retaining its power, so you’ll drive more comfortably and assertively while saving at the pump. “Honda’s updates haven’t diluted this car’s warrior spirit at all,” Car and Driver said. “If there’s a better combination of thrift, practicality and fun-to-drive, we haven’t seen it yet.”

Whether you're in Norfolk, Virginia Beach, Chesapeake, or beyond the Hampton Roads area, you'll want to come to Priority and test drive or buy a Honda Fit.

The Honda Odyssey Is The Most Spacious Minivan That Beats Them All.

If you’re looking for a vehicle that will haul your family and the stuff they carry, you can’t do better than the Honda Odyssey. A recent report from Cardanddriver.com calls the Odyssey “the reigning champ among minivans” because of the massive space it provides at a reasonable price with decent gas mileage. And it also “drives sportily.”

Caranddriver tested the Mazda 5 first but it didn’t fit the bill because it only seats six and offers only 12 feet of stow space behind the rear seats.

Next up was the Honda Pilot, which offers more room, 21 feet of cubic space behind the third row seat with decent gas mileage – 17 mpg in the city and 23 on the highways.

The Odyssey was the big winner with 38 feet of cubic space behind the third row and 147 cubic feet of space if you fold the second and third rows down, enough to carry “most anything an IKEA run will throw your way.”

And you’ll travel to IKEA and back on the cheap because the Odyssey gets 17 mpg in the city and 25 on the highway. And your kids will be highly entertained because the Odyssey features a DVD rear-seat entertainment system with the EX-L model that lets them listen to CDs, watch DVDs and play video games.

Caranddriver isn’t the only source of praise for the Odyssey. It’s won a series of awards, including one of Kelly Blue Book’s 10 Best New Family Vehicles for 2009, a Top Safety Pick from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety and a five-star crash-test rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

So you see, the Odyssey isn’t just spacious. It’s a safe driving minivan that protects your family and all your gear as it drives comfortably and efficiently.

That’s why the Odyssey “has everyone beat,” Caranddriver concludes. And it’s for sale now at Priority so drop by today to check it out.

Buy the Honda CR-V, For Sale At Priority, The Award-Winning Compact SUV That Can’t Be Beat!

If awards were collected for motor vehicles, the Honda CR-V would have a full trophy case. The popular sport utility vehicle, introduced in 1997 and redesigned in 2007 with a streamlined look and improved driving performance, has received the highest accolades:

• Best in Class from Kiplinger’s Personal Finance – “cosmopolitan styling, sophisticated interior space, great fuel efficiency and car-like handling.”


• Best Buy: Compact SUV from Consumer’s Guide


• Best Value in America, Compact SUV’s from Vivicentric


• J.D. Power Initial Quality Study Winner


• Motorist Choice Award for Crossover SUV from IntelliChoice


• Top Safety Pick from Insurance Institute of Highway Safety


• 5-star crash test ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Association

The CR-V has also reaped high praise from the automotive press, with Caranddriver.com calling it “handsomely appointed, versatile, stylish, exceptionally nimble and a model of ergonomic efficiency,” Edmunds.com claiming it’s “the best designed SUV in this price range,” Autotropolis.com lauding its “nice interior, loads of cargo space, impressive gas mileage and lots of safety features” and Autoweek saying “for agreeable, practical all-purpose transportation it’s hard to beat.”

Now what’s all the raving about? The CR-V, or the “cute ute” as it’s affably called, is a compact SUV that offers a distinctive alternative to the mid and full-size SUVs. With its car-based design, four cylinder engine and sedan-like ride and handling, it’s slightly smaller and more compact than the other SUVs but still offers plenty of passenger room and cargo capacity, so it’s the ideal family vehicle. It’s just the right size with exceptional fuel economy -- 20 mpg city and 27 mpg highway.

Since it’s a family vehicle, safety is of utmost importance and the CR-V scores big here – anti-lock braking, a Tire Pressure Monitoring system, active head restraints and six airbags, including side curtain airbags with rollover sensor are all standards.

There are three models to choose from – the LX, EX and EX-L, with additional accessories in the EX, including keyless entry, alloy wheels and a moonroof and high class extras in the EX-L, including a power driver seat and satellite radio.

For a compact SUV, the Honda CR-V is brimming over with high class features that make it appear like a luxury vehicle, but it’s reasonably priced for the budget conscious.

The great news is that the hottest Honda CR-Vs are for sale at Priority. Stop in for a test drive -- we’ll be happy to show you the award-winning SUV that has received universal acclaim from the auto industry. Now we’d like your acclaim, too.

Honda’s 2010 Insight Makes Hybrid History As Top-Selling Car In Japan!

Honda’s 2010 Insight, the new hybrid car from Japan’s second largest auto company, became the first hybrid to be crowned Japan’s top-selling car, selling 10,481 units in April, which catapulted it to the top, according to Reuters.

The figure means the Insight beat the Prius, the previous top-selling hybrid that has also introduced a new model. The Insight appeals to motorists because it costs much less than the Prius. The base price is 1.89 million yen in Japan, which translates into $19,000 U.S. dollars, almost $3,000 lower than the Prius.

The Insight’s low price comes with exceptional fuel efficiency – 40 mpg city, 43 mpg highway that can be surpassed in everyday driving. Two test drivers for cnet reviews cartech blog reported 50 mph on urban and rural roads and said “it was not difficult at all to get excellent fuel economy.”

The new Insight also makes an environmental statement with a number of innovative features, including the dashboard EcoGuide that changes color to assess your fuel economy. If you see blue, you’re a guzzler, while green denotes excellent fuel consumption and lower emissions. A series of green leaves charts your driving efficiency, with five denoting the most economical behavior. “Mind the gauges and you can optimize your mileage – often, in excess of the E.P.A. ratings,” The New York Times reports.

The environmentally conscious will be extremely proud to drive the Insight because it’s the first hybrid to meet California’s low emission vehicle standards, well in advance of industry requirements. The Insight’s performance makes Honda “the country’s greenest automaker,” the Union of Concerned Scientists reports.

The environmental benefits and the low price combine to make the new Insight “green fun for fewer greenbacks,” Motor Trend quipped and “an excellent choice for those who value fuel-sipping,” in the Edmunds.com report.

If you’d like to become one of the first Americans to own this exciting new car stop by Priority for a test drive. You’ll love the way it looks, you’ll love the way it handles and you’ll be proud to drive the most environmentally friendly hybrid that is internationally acclaimed and available today at a cost cutting price.

Honda Insight Sales

Honda’s Re-Engineered Pilot: How Much Praise Can One SUV Stand?

Car and Driver raved: "This latest gen—longer, wider, riding on 2.9 inches of newfound wheelbase—may well land it in the SUV Hall o'Fame … none of our crossover SUVs surpassed the Pilot's off-road prowess…the Pilot just bulled over the larger impediments."

And as if being Car and Driver’s Number One SUV in that comparison test of six crossovers weren’t convincing enough, who but Honda could come up with a cross-over that Motor Trend would love for its creature comforts at the same time as Edmunds.com would say “the Pilot sets itself apart from the competition because it values real utility.”

Car and Driver puts Pilot’s superiority squarely on Honda quality: “It feels unbendable because of its higher strength steel, its sturdier gusseting and its platform’s more robust rear structure.”

The inside story on the Pilot’s new spacious interior Motor Trend complimented  “…the superbly redesigned center console that provides twice the capacity of any competitor's, multiple bins, supersize cupholders, 12V powerpoints—even an iPod-friendly USB port and 115V outlet in the Touring [model].”  

And everybody agrees the new Pilot is fun to drive And easy to park! 

Now, on a serious note: The 2009 Pilot not only nabs a "Top Safety Pick" by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, earning the Best Possible Rating in IIHS frontal offset, side impact and rear crash-protection tests, the Pilot has also received 5-Star frontal- and 5-Star side-impact crash-test ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). 

Given that it’s an SUV, we especially like the Pilot’s standard a rollover sensor and four lower anchors and tethers for children (LATCH) positions—more than any other SUV currently in its segment. 

So, as you compare and consider the Honda Pilot consider this: Since its 2002 introduction, Honda’s Pilot has bagged 6 of Car & Diver’s 5 Best Truck trophies. 

Hondas Pilots with Priorities For Life:
http://www.priorityhondachesapeake.com/new_honda_pilot_inventory.php

Car and Driver article download:
http://automobiles.honda.com/images/2009/pilot/downloads/pilot_caranddriver.pdf

Accord Awards and Accolades:
http://automobiles.honda.com/pilot/reviews.aspx

The 2009 Accord: The Legacy of Excellence, Safety and Styling Continues.

When Car and Driver introduced its first ever 10 Best Cars list back in January of 1983, the Accord was right there with the best of them. They called the Accord "a remarkable automobile from a remarkable automobile… company. Now, 27 years later what’s Car and Driver got to say? "It’s clear; that praise still applies… [with the] crisp responses and exacting path accuracy that have always made Accords so satisfying to drive."

Twenty-three 10 Best awards in 27 years — only the amazing Accord.

Wow. Already it sure looks like you can’t go wrong with a new or used Accord.

Make note, too that the high authority on pre-owned cars, Kelley’s Blue Book, has honored Honda with its 2009 Best Resale Value Award in the Brand category.

And when just last year when Yahoo created a brand-new award, “The Excelerator,” to recognize the Number One Car on Yahoo! Autos you know who won hands down: the Honda Accord Sedan.

But it wasn’t on good looks alone: Yahoo! Stressed that "while the head-turning styling and spirited performance appeal to the senses, other amenities of the Accord Sedan address rational concerns … great efficiency … numerous standard safety features … electronic stability control, six airbags and anti-lock brakes."

With all the advanced safety engineering that comes standard on every Accord, it pretty easy to see why the Accord has been again been recognized by The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) as a "Top Safety Pick" and been given top ratings by The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

As a closing note, Honda’s commitment to our world and our children can be seen by Honda’s topping the rankings as the Country’s Greenest Automaker by the Union of Concerned Scientists four times in a row.

Car and Driver article download:
http://automobiles.honda.com/images/2009/accord-sedan/downloads/carAndDriver1.pdf

Accord Awards and Accolades:
http://automobiles.honda.com/accord-sedan/reviews.aspx

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety:
http://www.iihs.org/ratings

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration
www.safercar.gov

Honda’s 2009 Civic Wins Best in Category Time After Time

First Place: Kelley Blue Book Comparison Test
Top Safety Pick: Insurance Institute for Highway Safety
Best New Family Vehicle: Kelley Blue Book
Best Resale Value: Kelley Blue Book’s Top 10 List

“The quality and refinement is unmatched in the category.” “An amazing all around value.” “Kid-friendly.” “Arguably the safest small car on American roads.” “Exceptional fuel economy.” “Meticulously built.”

With all this praise for the 2009 Civic plus Honda’s historical rankings as The Country’s Greenest Automaker by the Union of Concerned Scientists, it’s no wonder the Civic picked up Kelley Blue Book’s 2009 Best Resale Value Award in the Brand category, too. Consumer Report wrote: “the reliability of all Honda … models is still the best of any automaker.”

The new Honda Civic beats the competition in every way – including our favorite comment, “It’s great fun to drive” ¬– which is one more excellent reason to come in to test-drive the new Civic for yourself.

To see how the Honda Civic fares against the other top-sellers in a thorough review, just watch The Kelley Blue Book video report from the link below.

We don’t want to spoil the fun, but yes, the 2009 Honda Civic “aces every test by a wide margin.”

If you’re thinking pre-owned, the 2008 Honda Civic has an impressive list of firsts, too, including being named Cars.com’s “Best New Car for First Time Drivers.”

And, of course, at Priority Honda, we have one of the largest inventories of new and pre-owned Civics and Civic HYBRIDS in the entire state for you to choose from.

Details on Honda Civic Awards & Kelley Blue Book video http://automobiles.honda.com/civic-sedan/reviews.aspx Awards and Accolade for the Civic HYBRID: http://automobiles.honda.com/civic-hybrid/reviews.aspx

Consumer Reports Put Honda At The Top. . .Again!

After testing more than 300 vehicles, Consumer Report has again ranked Honda number 1. The independent non-profit product rating organization said that Honda continues to make better all-around vehicles than any other automaker.

The Automaker Report Cards are based on test and reliability data for every automaker for which at least 4 vehicles were tested. The final grade each receives is based on a composite of overall road test score as well as predicted Reliability averaged from all test models of each automaker. Government and insurance industry crash tests are also factors in the ratings. Consumer Report concluded that “the reliability of all Honda and Acura models is still the best of any automaker. “ Subaru and Honda came in second and third respectively. Chrysler vehicles ranked at the bottom of the ratings.

Full Article Here:
http://www.consumerreports.org/cro/cars/new-cars/buying-advice/who-makes-the-best-cars/overview/index.htm

Priority Honda Recently Featured in Virginian-Pilot

The following article just goes to show how committed we are to customer service. Thanks for everyones' support, see you on the lot!

* The following article is taken from the Virginia-Pilot, 03/06/09.

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Larry Printz
Driver’s seat

PRIORITY HONDA NABS BIG AWARD IN ITS FIRST YEAR OF OPERATION

Priority Honda, which opened in Chesapeake in late 2007, has earned the 2008 President’s Award for customer satisfaction, the only Hampton Roads Honda store to win the accolade. The store is one of 13 to win the award out of 111 Honda stores in Maryland, Washington D.C., Virginia, North Carolina and part of South Carolina.

“They did a great job. It’s something we were focused on,” said Dennis Ellmer, president of Priority Automotive. “We have a great general manager in Keith Dennis, who has been with Honda for many years, and Jim Rose, our service manager.”

To win the award, the store had to receive top marks in customer satisfaction in both sales and service while meeting the factory’s sales goals.

That last requirement makes winning a customer service award difficult for a first-year store, said Dennis, who came to Priority after working at Hall Automotive.

While Priority wanted to win the award at the beginning of 2008, “it seemed insurmountable to reach that” because the store has just opened, Dennis said.

“Part of what makes it so difficult,” Dennis said, “is the processes that have to be put in place. You’re spending a lot of time mapping out procedures to make sure every customer is handled equally.”

Still, as the months rolled by, Dennis knew customer satisfaction was high because Honda supplies monthly numbers. But, he said, “It still felt awfully good.”

The award reflects the customer-centric focus of the new store. “It’s a tribute to the people who are there,” Ellmer said.