Jim Shorkey Brands Drive Away with Top Spots on Total Quality Index List

A roll call of cars under the Jim Shorkey name has received some of the highest scores among other vehicles in Strategic Vision’s—a research outfit in southern California—Total Quality Index for 2014.

Strategic Vision says its study involves 38,361 owners who rank what they perceive as the best vehicles in every category. So without further ado, we present to you the winners.

Dodge Dart Mitsu Lancer

  • Small multi-function Car (tie), Kia Soul/Volkswagen Golf

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  • Midsize car (tie), Subaru Impreza Sedan/Kia Optima

Kia Optima

Dodge Charger

  • Heavy duty pickup (tie), Ford F-250/350, Chevrolet Silverado 2500/3500, Ram 2500/3500

Ram 2500

jeep wrangler unlimited

dodge durango

  • Best mass-market brand, Kia

Kia logo

Shorkey Off-Road Vehicles: The ultimate outdoor experience

So you love Ram Trucks and Jeep Wranglers … but you want something different. Something bigger, something badder, something your friends can stand around and gawk at while you gleefully beam, keys in hand.

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At Jim Shorkey, we have that something in our brand-new line of off-road vehicles, Shorkey Off-Road. We have partnered with Rocky Ridge Conversions and are now offering the most aggressive-looking and durable trucks on the market. Our full line of Shorkey Off-Road vehicles is fully stocked with everything you can imagine. From Wranglers with the Phantom package to the Cummins diesel powered Ram 2500 Altitude Edition, we have monster vehicles to suit any taste. Call us today and speak with a Shorkey Off-Road specialist to find the vehicle of your dreams. After all, summer awaits.

Watch Rich Stevens in his natural habitat as he demonstrates a 2014 Ram 2500 with assorted features and upgrades that elevate this already top-of-the-line truck.

 

Check out our exclusive inventory of Shorkey Off-Road vehicles for your browsing pleasure!

2015 Dodge Challenger: Exclusive first look

While Edmunds.com recently named the 2014 Dodge Challenger the winner of its Best Retained Value® Award, Dodge was building on this success to introduce the redesigned 2015 Challenger. This all-new version received a styling refresh, both inside and out, with a bevy of features and upgrades.

Check out our sales associate Rich Stevens, as he showcases the award-winning 2014 Challenger, and then check out Hot Rod Magazine’s sneak-peak preview of the 2015 Challenger.

First, the magazine provides a little food for thought:

“The Dodge Challenger ranks third in U.S. ponycar sales (behind Camaro and Mustang), yet Tim Kuniskis, president and CEO of Dodge, reports those numbers continue to climb year over year. That’s not a statistic you typically see from a vehicle that’s been on the market for 5 years—and Dodge is proud of that.

The Dodge team is also quick to point out the Challenger has a higher conquest rate (buyers who come to the brand after owning a competitors’ car), a higher loyalty rate, and younger average buyer than the average Camaro or Mustang customer. These younger customers are reportedly purchasing the Challenger not just for its style and performance (which they are) but because the Challenger is larger, more comfortable, and more of a grand-touring vehicle than the Mustang or Camaro. Of course, there are still HOT ROD readers amongst the buyers—those who want power and performance—so Dodge improved the ’15 Challenger with an optional 392 Hemi Scat Pack package that promises more than 470 hp. This is the first time the 6.4L Hemi has been offered in a non-SRT-branded car.”

2015 Dodge Challenger 392 HEMI® Scat Pack Shaker

The articles continues:

“When the Challenger was relaunched for ’09, the car was clearly an homage to the ’70 model. It had the grille, the lights, and obviously the sheetmetal. For ’11, Dodge refreshed the Challenger by changing the lower grille opening, giving it the “frown” seen in the grille of the ’72–’74 Challenger. For ’15, the third-generation Challenger gets its most significant styling refresh, with changes inside and out that reflect the ’71 Challenger.

Although most of the sheetmetal and chassis stays the same, all Challengers get a new front and rear fascia. The front end still uses the characteristic quad headlights with halos, but they’re new for ’15 with a shorter main grille opening for a wider look. The new grille now has twin elements like the ’71 Challenger, and there’s more depth to the sculpting. The lower grille opening is also larger with a plastic mesh that uses the same texture as the upper grille.

The hood is also new for ’15, with the familiar twin scoops now moved much farther forward. The scoops are functional, adding airflow through the engine bay, but aren’t plumbed into the airbox. If functional hoodscoops are your thing, the Shaker option we saw at the SEMA show in 2013 will be an option on all ’15 Hemi models.”

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Further new features and amenities include:

“All Challengers now have electric power steering with adjustable steering feel. The eight-speed TorqueFlite transmission is available behind every engine. Dodge claims the addition of the trans helped the 3.6L Challenger shave half a second off its 0–60 time.

The Super Track Pak can be had with any trim level. It incudes a performance suspension that reduces the car’s ride height by half an inch, Bilstein shocks, Goodyear Eagle F-1 tires, and performance brakes.

Aluminum rearend with 9-inch ring gear.”

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For One Month, Let’s All be Futbol Fans

#BECOMEAFAN of the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil AND of the new 2015 Kia Sorento. Kia is the official automotive partner of this year’s Futbol World Cup, or as we like to call it, “soccer.” Kia Motors has brought back the 2012 “Drive the Dream” super bowl commercial with Brazilian supermodel, Adriana Lima, to help the hype of the 2014 World Cup. In a series of commercials, Lima travels in her 2015 Kia Sorrento to help turn “casual fans” into living, breathing, goal-screaming futbol fans.

Check out the Sorento commercials below and then browse our inventory! What do you love about the Sorento?

Check out our Kia inventory here!

To Lease or Buy a Car: That is the question

You have been on the hunt for that perfect car; the one that’s the right size, perfect style, and exact color you have always wanted. And just when you were about to give up your search, finally! Jim Shorkey Family Auto Group has had your dream machine all along! You never thought you were going to find that perfect car, so you didn’t even think about how you were going to purchase it. Now you’re stuck at a crossroad: to buy or to lease?

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If you’re the type of person who likes change and wants a new car every 2 or 3 years, leasing would be perfect for you. If you’re the committed type and you like to own your car for years upon years, buying would be the best-suited choice for you. You have to weigh the advantages and disadvantages of each option and choose the one that best fits your preference and lifestyle.

Here is a helpful list of advantages and disadvantages of buying and leasing a car that will help make your decision a little easier!

Advantages of Leasing:

  • Low! Low! Low! – When leasing a car, you usually have a lower down payment, lower monthly payments, and lower repair costs. You can’t beat those savings!
  • Changing with the times! – Cars are constantly changing each year with enhancements in comfort, quality, and technology. With a lease, it is easy to drive away in a new car every 2 to 3 years.
  • Tax break! Can you believe you only have to pay sales tax on the portion of the car you finance?!
  • Hassle FreeYou don’t have to worry about all that trade-in hassle when your lease expires. You just simply bring your car back to the dealer and start shopping for a new one! Let’s face it, who doesn’t love car shopping?

Disadvantages of Leasing:

  • And I would walk 500 miles! – Well, you’re going to have to if you reach your set mile limit. When leasing a car, your mileage is typically set at 12,000 to 15,000 miles per year. All those savings you had when leasing your car will be used to pay for excess mileage at the lease termination.
  • Wear-and-tear! – It may have been cute at the time when your dog was covered in mud in the backseat of your car with his head out of the window and the wind in his ears. However, it’s not so cute when you are charged for those muddy paw prints and drool stains at lease termination.
  • E=Mcontract²? – Lease contracts can be confusing to understand! It is important to understand the contract before you sign it.

Advantages of Buying:

  • Look at the warranty on that thing! – New cars come with warranties, from bumper-to-bumper, to powertrain. When buying a new car, you usually leave the dealership with 10 or more warranties! (Find out about our EXCLUSIVE Warranty Forever!)
  • I can get the car for how much?! –Dealers may offer financing at a low interest rate, which can reduce the amount of interest you pay over the life of your car loan. The best part is, once you pay off the loan, the car is yours to keep! No more hassle of monthly payments! (Check out our payment estimator here!)
  • On the road again! – When you buy a car, you have the capability of putting as many miles as you want on it! So feel free to take the cross-country road trip you’ve always dreamed of. But before you go, don’t forget to schedule a service appointment for an oil change! You can do that here!
  • You don’t have to apologize for a modify! – Unlike a lease, you are the owner of the vehicle and you don’t have to turn it back into the dealership within 2 or 3 years. With a lease, you are unable to add any accessories or modifications to the car. When you buy a car, you are able to modify, glamorize, and accessorize to your liking. Just when you thought it couldn’t get any better!

Disadvantages of Buying

  • Oldsmobile – The one advantage with leasing is that you are able to keep up with the changes and get into a new car every 2 to 3 years. When buying a car, people tend to keep a purchased vehicle for a longer period of time to spread the cost over the years. Just like the latest trends, car looks become “outdated” and “old.”
  • Depreciation– You may appreciate the fact that you were able to buy the car with your hard earned cash, but after purchasing the vehicle it depreciates in value, making it harder to sell. (To help matters a bit, we are always looking for pre-owned vehicles! Call about scheduling for an appraisal!)
  • Get that piggy bank out of the closet! You’re going to be putting down a large deposit! – A higher down payment is usually required when buying a car.

Start finding your dream car here, and use this list to help decide which purchasing method is the best fit for you!

 

 

Happening This Weekend: Bantam Jeep Heritage Festival

It’s hard to drive down Route 30 in Irwin and not see a Jim Shorkey Jeep waving to another Jim Shorkey Jeep. Turns out, you Jeep drivers are not alone.

2014-jeep-compass-2

This weekend, over 1,500 Jeeps from across the country are expected to assemble in Butler, PA for the Bantam Jeep Heritage Festival. The festival is a tribute event for the father of all jeeps, the history behind it, the people who created it, and its birthplace, Butler, PA.

The main event is at Coopers Lake Campground while the Jeep Invasion takes place in Downtown Butler. Other festivities and happenings include off-road trails, Jeep Playground, Show ‘n Shine, WWII Encampment, history exhibit, vendors, and more. New for this year is the Bantam Jeep Muddy 5K race.

If Jeeps are your thing, there’s one thing for certain—there will be no shortage of waves in Butler this weekend!

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Contact Information:

Cooper’s Lake Campground

205 Currie Road, Slippery Rock, PA 16057

Toll Free: 724-234-2291

Local: 724-234-2291

http://www.bantamjeepfestival.com/

Father’s Day Places and Events Around Pittsburgh

Father’s Day isn’t just about a Hallmark card and necktie (although a car on the other hand….). It’s about spending time with your father or that special father-like figure in your life, discovering new things and even trying something new. With three generations of Shorkeys in the business, we understand the meaning of family, which is why we created a list of some of our favorite events and places around Pittsburgh to check out this weekend for Father’s Day.

Father-Shadow

Pittsburgh Zoo’s Father’s Day Celebration

Lions and tigers and fathers, oh my! Bring your dad to the zoo for a wild Father’s Day. All dads will receive free admission when accompanied by a child, and all visitors can participate in a Grand in Your Hand scavenger hunt. So team up with your dad, and make a day of it—the zoo is open from 9:30 AM to 6 PM.

Just Ducky Tours

If you’re looking for a unique and historic tour, then Just Ducky Tours is right up your alley. Dads will enjoy an historic ride on land and water inside an amphibious, colorful vehicle. The tour includes interesting facts abouts Pittsburgh, and a few quirky jokes that the guides inject along the way. The tour navigates through the streets of Pittsburgh to view the prominent architecture, the magnificent Cultural District, and famous sports venues. Then, the tour splashes into the river for an inspiring view of the Pittsburgh skyline and completes the excursion at Station Square, which is the original starting point. To ensure a special day for dad, it is best to call for a reservation.

Gateway Clipper Fleet

Celebrate dear old dad down by the river on the Gateway Clipper Fleet—just don’t tell him we called him old! Bring your dad out for a great day relaxing in the sun and enjoying the all-you-can-eat buffet. The buffet costs $45 for adults and $20 for children, and offers beef, chicken, vegetarian options, and a chocolatey dessert fit for the special king in your life.

North Park

North Park is part of the Allegheny County Park system and a favorite place to experience the outdoors with dads and families. The park offers activities to entertain everyone, including trails, bike paths, water sports, sports fields, and fishing and recreational activities. The groves make for a great place to have a picnic and the nature center is a nice walk to enjoy wildlife and vegetation. Families may try out the new restaurant at the boathouse after a day on the links, tennis court, or batting cages.

Three Rivers Arts Fest

Bring your pops to the last day of the Three Rivers Arts Fest! The Arts Festival is a free, 10-day long event with the last day landing on Father’s Day. Check out the booths, catch some music, eat some chicken on a stick, and drink some fresh-squeezed lemonade. If that doesn’t sound appealing (for some unbeknownst reason!), then grab a blanket and picnic basket for a picnic at the Point.

Man Up for Prostate Cancer 5/10k Walk/Run

Spend the day walking (or running) with your dad to raise money for Prostate Cancer research. The Obediah Cole Foundation is hosting its 11th annual 5/10k Walk/Run this Father’s Day. Races start at 8 AM at Riverfront Park and the course follows the North Shore for a great view of the city and the rivers. Spend the morning getting fit with your dad, and raising money for a good cause!

Road Trip Travel Tips

The great America road trip is a standard summertime tradition for many friends and family. If you plan on packing up your car and venturing out on the open road this summer, then check out our trips for smooth sailing—err, driving—to your destination.

Car Maintenance

Technician. Consider stopping by one of our Service Centers to have your vehicle checked before a long trip.

Tires. Check your tires monthly for tread wear. Make sure all tires (including the spare) are properly inflated.

Coolant. Check the coolant level and condition, making certain the proper 50/50 mixture of coolant and water is present.

Oil. Check the level and condition of the engine oil. Your owner’s manual should have specific directions.

Belts and Hoses. Look for worn, cracked, blistered, or soft belts and hoses. Of course, always perform this check with the engine off.

Battery. Hot weather can shorten the life of a battery. You can have it tested by a qualified technician.

maintenance

Travel Planning

Emergency Kit. Carry an emergency kit with a flashlight, batteries, warning devices (such as flares or reflective triangles), jumper cables, a first-aid kit, and extra water.

Fuel. Don’t let the gas level get below one-quarter of a tank.

Route-Planning. Use any mobile app to plan your route ahead of time (a paper map works great too!). Plan for stops every 100 miles or 2 hours to avoid drowsy or fatigued driving.

Accommodations. Reserve all accommodations in advance, but be flexible if you need to stop an extra night due to traffic a change of plans.

Security. Lock your car when you leave it, and keep your valuables out of sight.

Safety. Secure children and adults in car seats, booster seats, or seat belts.

Entertainment. Bring books, games, and music for the ride, but don’t forget to take in the beautiful scenery.

Information. Bring information on your destination to make the most of your trip.

travel plans

Facebook Contest Annoucement!

Be sure to follow our Facebook page this week and next week for a daily trivia contest. Each daily winner will be entered into a Grand-Prize drawing to win a pair of Pirates tickets for the end of this month!

pirates tickets contest

The contest is centered around our dealership, so be sure to brush up on your Jim Shorkey trivia for your chance to win! The more you play and win, the more entries you will have in the Grand-Prize drawing! If you’re ever stumped on a question, try perusing past entries on this blog for helpful hints!

Good luck!