Unveiling the All-New 2016 Mazda CX-3 Crossover SUV

The compact crossover SUV market has been heating up for some time now as more buyers are wanting the comfort, fuel-efficiency, and driving characteristics of a four-door sedan combined with the versatility and convenience of a sport utility vehicle. The all-new, 2016 Mazda CX-3 is designed to satisfy the public’s increasing demand for a small SUV that doesn’t sacrifice quality, performance, or practicality when compared to larger SUVs. The new CX-3 is slated to go on sale in Japan sometime this year, with a firm U.S. release date still forthcoming.

Redefining the crossover segment
Sharing many of the same design cues as the popular Mazda2 Hatchback, the 2016 CX-3 is smaller than its CX-5 crossover stable mate. At 168.3 in. long, 69.5 in. wide, and 61 in. tall, the CX-3 is highly maneuverable, yet surprisingly roomy. It is the fifth vehicle to share Mazda’s next-generation SKYACTIV Technology, which combines a number of advanced engineering features, such as low-friction, higher-compression engines, to achieve better fuel economy while maintaining spirited performance.

2015 Volkswagen Golf is Car of the Year, Two Times Over

Two of the most respected accolades in the automotive world are Motor Trend Magazine’s Car of the Year® and the North American Car of the Year™. This year, we’re proud to announce that the 2015 Volkswagen Golf has won both of these prestigious awards.

And with good reason.

Packed with plenty of style, amazing versatility, excellent fuel economy, a host of safety features, superb performance, sophisticated handling, and advanced technology, the 2015 Golf takes Volkswagen’s legacy of German-born and racing-bred engineering, innovation, and Old World craftsmanship to a new level.

Fun Family Holiday Activities in the Cleveland Area

The holiday season for many means spending quality time with family and enjoying the melody of classic Christmas carols. This time of the year is packed with fun activities such as decorating the house, making snowmen, and adorning the Christmas tree. When you run out of things to do around the house you can count on fun holiday activities in the area. Whether you are a local or just visiting Willoughby Hills, there are plenty of fun Christmas activities you can enjoy with the whole family. Here’s a list of some of our favorite Christmas events around Cleveland, Ohio:

Willoughby Hills Breakfast with Santa

The Christmas holiday can be overwhelming. In between preparing food for the family and doing Christmas shopping you barely have enough time to relax. Why not give yourself a break from the kitchen by taking a trip to Santa’s kitchen? The Willoughby hills Breakfast with Santa is a classic Christmas event that offers the whole family an exciting Christmas experience. Not only will the kids get to enjoy yummy breakfast treats, they will get a chance to visit the Secret Santa Shop. Breakfast with Santa is on December 13 from 8:30a.m. – 12:00p.m. Be sure to register before tickets are sold out. Here’s how you can register for the event. 

10 Flavorful and Easy Fall Recipes

The leaves have fallen, temperatures are crisp, and there’s a taste of fall in the Ohio air. November is a great month for mouth-watering and hearty recipes that make this time of year both festive and fun.

Seared pork with apples and broccoli. Photo credit: BevCooks.com

There are a variety of fruits and vegetables in season, from blackberries and broccoli to peppers and pears. We’ve found 10 delicious fall recipes that offer a uniquely delectable twist in fall dining. We hope you enjoy them!

Car Buying Myths Debunked

Are you in the market for a new car? Buying a car can be confusing, not to mention frustrating. With so many different car buying opinions and strategies on the web, chances are you’re not exactly sure what to do. If your old car is giving you problems and you need a new car ASAP, here are a few tips to help you buy the right car for you.

Myth #1: Buy a car when your money is right.

If your credit score is not where it needs to be, it’s not the end of the world. Car dealerships in Ohio offer financial assistance to help you with your purchases. You can count on the finance team at Eastside Mazda Volkswagen to help you drive off with the right car for you within your budget. Also, trading in your car is another way to cut down on costs. Be sure to keep your car in good shape in order to get the best out of your trade in.

Myth #2: Maintaining your old car saves money.

If your used car is in good shape and requires minimum repairs, you can get away with driving it for a while longer. On the other hand, you are better off buying a new car if you’re constantly finding yourself at the service shop. Frequent car repairs can cost you more money and time than it’s worth. With a new car, you get a hassle-free driving experience and you can save on car repair costs. The best way to get the most out of your car buying experience is to keep an open mind. For example, instead of just focusing on the 2014 Mazda3 be sure to try out other sedans such as the 2014 Volkswagen Jetta.

Myth #3: Buy your car when the weather is bad.

This myth has circulated throughout the years and as a result car dealerships tend to get even more crowded during bad weather. If you are trying to avoid a long wait, consider going car shopping during the week. Most people are at work during this time, which gives you more time to compare cars and more time with the salesman.

Whether you are a Mazda or Volkswagen enthusiast, Eastside Mazda Volkswagen has you covered. Check out our 2014 Mazda3 and 2014 Volkswagen Jetta models, along with a wide variety of SUVs. Visit us at 28400 Chardon Road Willoughby Hills, OH 44092 or call 800-210-6286 to schedule a test drive.

Four Steps to Keeping Your Child Safe on the Road

There’s a good reason why the catchy Mazda theme song you hear on our TV commercials is “Safe and Sound” from the band, Capital Cities. When it comes to your family’s safety, we’re proud to sell some of the safest and most reliable vehicles you’ll find anywhere.

According to the State of Ohio, motor vehicle traffic accidents remain the leading cause of death for Ohio children ages 4 to 7 years. That’s why we’re sharing some important information about how you can make sure your most precious cargo – your children – are, as the song says, “safe and sound” in your new or certified pre-owned Mazda or VW from your friends at Eastside Mazda VW.

The Ohio Department of Health states that children are required to use belt-positioning booster seats once they outgrow their child safety seats until they are 8 years old. The law also requires that:

• Children less than 4 years old or 40 pounds must use a child safety seat meeting federal motor vehicle safety standards.
• Children ages 8-15 must use a child safety seat or safety belt.

Because seat belts are designed for adults, booster seats raise your child up so the shoulder belt fits correctly. Fines from not using proper child safety equipment range from $25 to $75 per occurrence, while a booster seat can be purchased for as little as $15.

According to the “Boost Ohio’s Kids” program, here are “Four Steps to Safety” you should follow to make sure your child is always riding “safe and sound” in your Mazda or VW:

1. Use a rear-facing car seat in the back seat for infants and toddlers up to 2 years old. Make sure the seat is securely fastened by a seat belt following manufacturer’s recommendations.
2. After they outgrow their rear-facing seat, protect your children less than 4 years old or 40 pounds with a properly secured, forward-facing car seat placed in the back seat of your vehicle.
3. Use a booster seat in the back seat for children up to age 8. They can use a seat belt when the lap belt lies across the upper thighs and the shoulder belt fits across the chest (usually between the ages of 8 and 12).
4. Children using a regular adult seat belt are required to ride in the back seat until the age of 13. Of course, no matter what the age, always use a seat belt for all passengers!

Download a free and informative child car safety brochure from Boost Ohio’s Kids here.

Whether it’s in a Mazda3, Mazda CX-5 Touring, Mazda CX-9, Mazda6 Sport, or our outstanding inventory of new or pre-owned VW vehicles – including the Passat, Tiguan, Jetta, and Touareg models – we wish you and your family “safe and happy motoring” from all of your friends at Eastside Mazda. We proudly serve Cleveland, Mentor, Cleveland Heights, and the surrounding cities.

Essential Steps to Getting the Car of Your Dreams

Is your current car starting to give you problems? Dealing with repetitive car repair is expensive and time consuming. You might be better off buying a more reliable and efficient car, especially with back-to-school season just around the corner. Your car buying experience doesn’t have to be complicated. The most important thing to remember is to always stick to your budget. Here are five steps to take in order to get the best out of your buying experience:

Set Your Budget

Set aside time to evaluate your finances. This will help you when it comes to deciding how much you can set aside for monthly payments. Be sure to consider all your financial responsibilities including rent or mortgage, bills, insurance and maintenance costs.

Value Your Trade-In

Got your eye on the all-new 2014 Mazda3? Trading in your current car is a great way to reduce the cost. You can find out the value of your current Mazda3 by researching auto sites such as Edmunds.com and KBB.com. Also, you can use our online value your trade tool to get a more accurate estimation.

Know Your Credit Score

Checking your credit score is part of the budgeting process. It will give you a better idea of what to expect when coming up with a budget. Also, consider your credit score when deciding whether to use dealer financing or a bank auto loan. Dealers and manufactures usually offer lower interest rates on new car promotions. You can get qualified quickly and easily with Eastside Mazda Volkswagen.

Save For A Down Payment

Setting aside money for a down payment comes with many benefits. Not only do you reduce the cost of your monthly payments, but you’re also more likely to get a better interest rate. You might get away with no down payment when buying a new car, but with used cars there is a higher chance of a down payment requirement.

Prioritize Your Needs

That new car smell can be very tempting, but do you really need a new car? One way to avoid buyer’s remorse is to prioritize your needs and buy a car that suits your lifestyle. Do you need a car big enough for carpooling, or will you be riding solo? These are some of the important questions to consider when buying a car.

Whether you got your eye on the Mazda3, Mazda6 or the all-new CX-5; we got your covered. Visit us at Eastside Mazda Volkswagen to check out our wide range of quality used and new vehicles. Give us a call at 800-210-6286 or stop at 28400 Chardon Road Willoughby Hills, Oh 44092.

4th of July Celebrations in Northeast Ohio

Summer has officially started; that means 4^th of July is just around the corner. This is an exciting time of the year for Americans. It’s a time to celebrate the joys of freedom, family, and friends; not to mention summertime. What are your plans to celebrate the 238th year of independence? If you live near Willoughby Hills, OH you’re in luck. There’s a lot of fun-packed 4^th of July activities happening in the area. Here’s a look at some upcoming 4^th of July events to look forward to.

Visit the Award Winning City of Willoughby

The city of Willoughby is winner of the APEX Gold Award- Downtown Willoughby Rib Burn Off. Ribs aren’t the only thing this city has to offer, Willoughby, OH is the perfect stop for site seeing and shopping. Offering fun for people of all ages, this town is a great place to take a break from the barbequing to enjoy a stroll in the sun. Don’t forget to pack your blankets and lawn chairs for the Willoughby 4^th of July fireworks display held at South High School.

Celebrating 4^th of July in Mentor, OH

Mentor, OH was named one of the best cities to live for a reason. Not only is this city flourishing economically, it’s also home to numerous shopping spots and outdoor activities. With long shorelines and trails, Mentor is a great vacation destination for people of all ages. Thunderous fireworks are not the only thing this city has to offer this 4^th of July. You can expect to have a good time with the kids at the Mentor Parade and Bake sale. So why not get involved and make this a fun event for the whole family. Find out how you can participate in the parade here.

Take a Stroll at the Painesville Car Show

Why not do something for you this 4^th of July and head on over to Painesville’s Classic Car Show. This car lover’s paradise will showcase an average of 200 classic cars every Friday this summer. The music and tasty snacks from local restaurants are some of the things to look forward to. The showcase will last through September 26, 2014 and will be held at the Veteran’s Park downtown Painesville. Although there will be no fireworks display at the Classic Car Showcase, you can always take a short drive in your Mazda to the Quail Hollow Resort to watch their 4^th of July fireworks display. Find out more here.

In between your grilled meals and summer fun, remember to celebrate the simple joys of freedom this 4^th of July. Whether you choose to stay close to home or venture out in your new or used Mazda, be sure to seize the day and explore the beauties of Northeast Ohio. Before you hit the road, make a quick stop in Willoughby and visit us at Eastside Mazda. Our service experts will be waiting to get your Mazda ready for summer driving. Visit us at 28400 Chardon Road Willoughby Hills, OH 44092 or call 800-706-3017 to schedule a service appointment.

Source: http://cityofmentor.com/calendar/

http://fireworksinohio.com/events/willoughby-fourth-of-july-fireworks/

http://business.painesvilleohchamber.org/events/details/fourth-of-july-fireworks-at-quail-hollow-resort-1396

Is Your Car Ready for Summer?

Summer is officially here! That means it’s time for exciting activities, like picnics in the park, fishing excursions and even road trips. With all of the fun that summer brings, sometimes it’s easy to forget that the summer heat can cause damage to your new Mazda. You should be enjoying the weather, not worrying about your car, so we’ve made a list of the things to do to get your car ready for the upcoming season.

Tires

First things first; remove your snow tires if you haven’t already. They’ll wear out much quicker if they’re driven on dry pavement. Plus, they’re really of no use when there’s no snow on the ground. Also, make sure your tires are filled to the proper pressure. When gas is heated, it expands, and so will the air in your tires after they’re heated up by the summer sun. Do what you can to avoid a blowout on the highway and check your tire pressure. Lastly, driving at the right tire pressure can save you money by increasing your Mazda’s fuel economy. Checking your tires is not only safe, it’s smart.

Wiper Blades

April showers bring May flowers, and summer the likelihood of thunderstorms. If you haven’t replaced your windshield wiper blades in the last year, it’s time. Wiper blades are open to the worst of Mother Nature’s fury, including ultraviolet rays that can harm the rubber. Replacing your wiper blades is a fast and inexpensive fix, so it’s best to swap them out before you’re stuck in a nasty summer storm.

Air Conditioning

Having such a long, dreary winter means not having to use the air conditioning in your car. Over time your air conditioning can gradually leak refrigerant, making your compressor work tougher and ultimately putting extra strain on your engine. If you’re A/C doesn’t feel as cool as it once did, you should schedule a service appointment to get it checked out, before the first heat wave hits.

Coolant

Pay attention to this next one. Fresh antifreeze in the coolant system is a vital factor in keeping your engine cool during those scorching-hot summer months. Do you remember the last time your coolant was replaced? If not, it’s time to get a system flush and fill. Old coolant can cause premature corrosion in your engine and radiator due to an electric charge it develops over time. Check your coolant and avoid being stuck on the side of the road.

At Eastside Mazda, we’ll get your Mazda in shape for this summer. Or for quick questions about your car, ask a technician. Stop by today! We’re located at 28400 Chardon Road, Willoughby Hills, OH 44092. For more information, give us a call at 800-706-3017.

Source: http://editorial.autos.msn.com/listarticle.aspx?cp-documentid=1146148

Top 4 Road Trip Drives

As the temperatures start to rise, summer vacation may be creeping into your mind. Do you have any plans for a summer trip? Grab your friends and family, jump into your new Mazda and hit the road. Not sure where to go for your summer road trip? We’ve made planning your road trip easy with our list of the top four locations to discover in your Mazda!

Head for the Black Hills of South Dakota

 

Talk about great scenery! The Black Hills are layered in purple, red and orange rock and show their age while also telling a story. While following the hiking trail around the sandstone structures, you’ll learn about the geology behind the colored bands. Make sure you don’t Prairie Dog Town, where you can see the fuzzy creatures mingling with each other.

Next, stop by Mount Rushmore. Navigate along the Presidential Trail to see abundant views of Washington, Jefferson, Lincoln and Theodore Roosevelt. Take the tour and learn how the 5,725 foot-tall national monument was carved into the mountain.

While you’ll there, check out the remarkable views of Custer State Park – 71,000 acres of granite, pine and prairie, complete with wildflower views. While driving along the path in your Mazda, you’ll see herds of bison, bighorn sheep and mountain goats.

Cruze the California Pacific Coast Highway

Want to see how your new Mazda3 ready handles those turns? California’s Pacific Coast highway is the ideal place to test it out. With its twisting, cliff-hugging roads, you’ll get a feel for the superior handling of your Mazda. Take a tour of the famous city, Monterey. Visit its surviving cities that date back to Spanish and Mexican rule as well as the Fisherman’s Wharf and the Monterey Bay Aquarium.

If you’re looking for another stop, swing by Point Lobos State Reserve. It’s a 550 acre park with tide pools, meadows and the nation’s first underwater ecological reserve. It’s also home to over 250 species, including gray foxes, sea otters and migrating gray whales.

Next, in Morro Bay, you’ll discover an extinct volcanic cone, named Morro Rock, that’s about 23 million years old. Keep an eye out for wildlife, from peregrine falcons to great blue herons, and from October to March you might even be lucky enough to see some monarch butterflies resting near eucalyptus trees.

Float on the Cascade Lakes in Oregon

The quaint views of Oregon’s Cascade Lakes are magnificent. This space, which once used to be a volcano zone is nowadays made up of mountain tops and rivers formed from oozing lava. Test your Mazda CX-9’s tight turning radius while driving up Mount Bachelor. Mount Bachelor’s volcano summit – reached by chair lift – is 9,065 feet tall with amazing views of neighboring peaks.

Next, drive to Sparks Lake where you’ll catch glimpses of summer wildflowers galore. Western columbine, larkspur and elderberry grow wild in the natural forested lava fields that contain pumice, basalt and volcanic ash.

Make Three Sisters Wilderness your final stop in Cascade Lakes. You’ll see more views of Mount Bachelor and the surrounding lava formations. Plus, you can get out and fish, hike, boat or swim. There’s even a beach at Elk Lake you can visit if it gets too hot.

Relax on the Coast of Lake Michigan

Worried about racking up too many miles on your new Mazda? If so, the coast of Lake Michigan is the perfect summer vacation for you. Visit the self-proclaimed “cherry capital” in Traverse City. Cherry orchards border many area shops. You can even stop at one of the local wineries or bed and breakfasts in Traverse Bay.

Hit the links and stop off at Lake Charlevoix to enjoy a day of golfing. There are the many golf courses to choose from in the area. If golfing isn’t your thing, you can boat or fish in their busy harbor.

End your vacation exploring Ernest Hemmingway’s old stomping grounds in Walloon Lake. Live like the famous American writer by visiting the old general store he hung around and order a root beer float. You can even sleep at the same hotel the young writer used to stay.

Where ever you decide to take your Mazda this summer, remember to enjoy the ride!

Visit Eastside Mazda and meet our friendly staff. Or take a new or used Mazda out for a test drive. We’re located at 28400 Chardon Road, Willoughby Hills, OH 44092. For more information, give us a call at 800-210-6286.

Source: http://travel.nationalgeographic.com/travel/road-trips/

Photo Credit: http://travel.nationalgeographic.com/