Over the past couple of months, the Humane Rescue Alliance has witnessed a significant increase in intakes, a trend not limited to their shelter alone but seen across the country. It’s a challenging time for these furry friends, as last week alone, the Humane Rescue Alliance took in 90 dogs while only 17 found their forever homes. Easterns Automotive Group, a dealership dedicated to helping customers find their dream cars and making a positive impact in the community, has partnered with the Humane Rescue Alliance to support their mission of finding loving homes for these deserving animals.
Recognizing the urgent need to find loving families for these dogs, the Humane Rescue Alliance has actively promoted their adorable four-legged companions by offering a 50% discount on adoption fees. Their message is clear: if you’re considering adopting a pet, there’s not much you need to do to prepare—simply come with a leash and a plan. The Alliance ensures that potential adopters receive comprehensive information about the dogs, including their health history and guidance on seamlessly integrating them into their new homes.
The Humane Rescue Alliance understands that finding the perfect match between a dog and its forever home is crucial. Their experienced team guides potential adopters, helping them navigate the adoption process and select a dog that aligns with their lifestyle and preferences. Whether you’re looking for an active companion for outdoor adventures or a laid-back snuggle buddy, the Humane Rescue Alliance is committed to helping you find the ideal furry addition to your family.
Committed to making a difference in the community, Easterns Automotive Group has joined forces with Fox 5 on this Pay It Forward to assist the Humane Rescue Alliance in its noble endeavor. Easterns Automotive Group is covering the remaining fees for the first 20 dogs adopted through the Humane Rescue Alliance to encourage and support pet adoption. Contact the Humane Rescue Alliance today if you’re ready to open your heart and home to a loving companion.
After a life-altering accident seven years ago that left him paralyzed, Dallas Disbro has turned his adversity into an opportunity to pursue his passion and positively impact others. In 2016, he suffered a debilitating neck injury while diving in Ocean City.
In 2018, he created Wheel 2 Win, a 3-on-3 wheelchair basketball tournament at Georgetown University. This event is a fundraiser for his local non-profit organization, The United Spinal Association of Washington, DC, dedicated to promoting awareness and inclusion.
Through his non-profit, Dallas actively supports and empowers the spinal cord injury community in the DMV area through mentoring programs, enriching trips, and essential grants to individuals in need.
Recognizing the inspiring work being done by Dallas and his non-profit, Easterns Automotive Group felt compelled to show their support. Joel Bassam, representing Easterns, joined 7 News to deliver a heartfelt message and a surprise donation of $2,200.
The Hyundai Elantra has risen in popularity in the world of smaller sedans thanks to its reliability, affordability and stylish design. Many past Hyundai Elantra buyers think it’s not just a good car, but a great car. There are a lot of points in the Hyundai Elantra’s favor that have made it a vehicle many depend on and trust, especially first-time car buyers.
Key Points About the Hyundai Elantra
Stylish Design:The Hyundai Elantra has a sophisticated exterior with sharp lines, a bold grille and eye-catching headlights.
Fuel Efficiency:The Elantra boasts a fuel efficiency of 25 MPG for cities and 34 MPG for highways, making it a cost-effective choice whether it’s for a daily commute or a road trip.
Advanced Technology:Hyundai has equipped the Elantra with advanced technology features to enhance convenience, connectivity and entertainment on the go. Features in modern Hyundai Elantra models include a touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, Bluetooth connectivity, USB ports and available premium sound systems.
Safety Features:Hyundai prioritizes safety above all else, which is why they have supplied the Elantra with advanced driver-assistance systems like forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, rearview cameras, lane-keeping assist and more to protect you from accidents.
Reliability:With proper maintenance and care, the Elantra can last drivers up to 250,000 miles. If an Elantra is driven approximately 10,000 miles a year, it should reliably last for a minimum of 20 years.
Affordability:The Hyundai Elantra is competitively priced at around $22,000, which is an attractive number compared to other smaller sedans.
Best Hyundai Elantra Years as Ranked by Value
While virtually every Hyundai Elantra model year is generally considered exceptional, there are some particularly renowned production years:
2017
The 2017 Elantra received a significant redesign, showcasing a more upscale look and improved interior quality. It also introduced new safety features and offered a smooth and comfortable ride.
2018
Building upon the success of the previous year, the 2018 Elantra maintained its attractive design while adding more standard features, such as blind-spot monitoring and lane-change assist.
2020
The 2020 Elantra featured a refreshed exterior design and updated technology, including a larger infotainment screen and improved driver assistance features. It provides a modern driving experience at a competitive price point.
2022
One of the latest models, the 2022 Hyundai Elantra, boasted enhanced technology and comfort. The 2022 Elantra received a consumer rating of4.1 out of 5 and other glowing reviews.
The Hyundai Elantra’s Hits and Misses
Hits:
Affordable and dependable, making it a smart choice for any type of driver.
Stylish and aerodynamic design sets it apart from other vehicles in its class.
Hyundai’s impressive warranty coverage, including a lengthy powertrain warranty, provides peace of mind to owners.
The 2017, 2018, 2020 and 2022 models offer best-in-class performance among compact cars released in those years.
Misses:
While the Elantra provides adequate power for daily driving, it’s not a sports car. It may not deliver the exhilarating performance some drivers desire. This isn’t an issue for most drivers seeking a dependable commuter vehicle.
The Elantra’s rear seats, although comfortable, may feel cramped for taller passengers on longer journeys.
The 2013 and 2016 models showcased some technical issues. It’s worth noting that, even in “off” years, the Elantra still reviewed well. The 2013 Hyundai Elantra earned a 4.2 out of 5 consumer rating with Kelley Blue Book and a 4.4 out of 5 with CarMax, while the 2016 Hyundai Elantra earned a 4.2 out of 5 for both of those ratings.
Browse Through Our Robust Selection of Pre-Owned Vehicle
AtEasterns Automotive Group, we offer an extensive collection ofpre-owned Hyundai Elantra vehiclesto DC, Maryland and Virginia drivers. In addition to offering a diverse, high-quality selection of pre-owned cars, we also offer some of the best financing options in the DMV. Our team excels at helping drivers find the right car and financing solution for their needs.
Whether you’re after aHyundai Elantra model, another type of compact sedan or any other type of vehicle, our team is ready to assist you. Check outour inventory of pre-owned vehicles online or visit one of oureight locations today.
Thousands of children around the DMV experience their birthdays without a birthday cake. In fact, some say they have never received one. That’s why one Fairfax county nonprofit called Cake4Kids is working to change that.
“It never occurred to me that children go without a birthday cake, and that broke my heart,” said Mary Campbell, owner of the nonprofit Cake4Kids. “It’s homeless children, it’s children in domestic violence shelters, it’s foster children, it’s children in immigration services, and it’s children with free and reduced lunch. We do a lot of Title I schools.”
Campbell is committed to making a difference through her nonprofit organization in Fairfax County with the help of 650 local volunteer bakers, including some who aren’t bakers at all.
A volunteer, Patt Rossini, baked for a kid who had never had a cake before. “It was a last-minute request for a Fort Nite cake, and later I got a ‘thank you’ picture with the child, which killed me,” Rossini said.
Cake4Kids’ mission inspired 7News and Easterns Automotive Group to surprise the nonprofit with a 7News Helping Hand.
Joel Bassam joined with a special for Cakes4Kids. “Cake4Kids is an amazing organization. You guys do something that many people take for granted by supporting those kids who might not have a cake for their birthday,” said Joel Bassam from Easterns Automotive Group. “Using that secret ingredient of baking extra love into it and then delivering it to their home is an amazing way to support the community. We want to help you guys continue to do that by donating $2,200 so you can continue baking all of those cakes across the DMV.”
It was a huge surprise donation for Campbell, and she was extremely grateful. She says everything (and everyone) helps make their goal of giving kids cakes on their birthdays successful.
Every week in Montgomery County, the non-profit So What Else feeds thousands of meals to feed others, but now they are forced to move as Lake Forest Mall closes. Since starting this initiative at the beginning of the pandemic, they have given 30 million meals to those in need.
Now that they have to shut down and relocate, they are worried about still being able to help those in need because they have not solidified a new location. Their current rent is $1,000, and the new places they have discovered are priced around $12,000 a month, an increase they cannot afford.
Joel Bassam joined with a virtual message to surprise them with a helping hand. So What Else is doing amazing things helping those who need it most, and Easterns Automotive Group was honored to donate $2,200 towards their initiative. Allie and Megan were so excited and shared that this would help with rent and moving costs for their new space.
The Mazda 3 is one of the Japanese automaker’s best sellers. It’s no wonder, as this compact car embodies everything a diver can wish for in their vehicle—a stylish design, sporty driving experience and advanced technology features like touchscreen displays and driver-assistance programs.
The vehicle is available in two distinct body styles—the sedan and the hatchback.
If you’re in the market for a compact car that offers a blend of style, driving enjoyment and modern technology, the Mazda 3 could be a great choice for you.
Key Points About the Mazda 3
The 2004 Mazda 3 marked the first iteration of this now renowned vehicle. In the ensuing years it has been enhanced with many updates and improvements.
Most recent models released after 2013 (the third and fourth generations) boast features like:
Advanced infotainment: These models come equipped with modern infotainment systems featuring touchscreen displays, intuitive interfaces and compatibility with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for seamless smartphone integration.
Optional AWD: One notable feature is the availability of an all-wheel-drive (AWD) system, enhancing traction and stability, especially in adverse weather conditions.
Enhanced safety: These models prioritize safety with i-ACTIVSENSE technologies, including adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning and more, contributing to a safer driving environment.
The Mazda 3 offers a range of engine options. It’s chiefly known for efficient and responsive four-cylinder engines, such as the spark-controlled compression ignition engine—a type of internal combustion engine that combines aspects of both gasoline and diesel engines to achieve improved fuel efficiency and lower emissions.
Premium interior: Inside, the Mazda 3 offers a refined cabin with high-quality materials, ergonomic design and attention to detail that exudes a premium feel.
What Are the Best Mazda 3 Years?
The “best” years for the Mazda 3 can vary depending on what factors are most important to you. Generally, Mazda has maintained a reputation for producing reliable and well-designed vehicles.
However, some Mazda 3 models that have earned consistently high ratings. These include:
2020:Similar to the 2019 model, the 2020 Mazda 3 continued to offer the refinements introduced in the fourth-generation redesign, including improved technology and AWD availability.
2019:The 2019 model year brought a redesigned fourth-generation Mazda 3. It featured a sleeker design, improved interior quality, and the availability of all-wheel drive (AWD) for the first time. The technology and safety features were also updated.
2017:The last of the third generation, the 2017 Mazda 3 model featured five different trims and a much roomier cabin than its predecessors.
What Are the Worst Reviewed Mazda 3 Years?
While Mazda is known for producing reliable vehicles, like any car model, there have been certain model years of the Mazda 3 that have faced more issues or received less favorable reviews. Luckily, these issues pertain to older models and are not indicative of the fourth generation Mazda lineup.
2007: The 2007 Mazda 3 faced some reported problems related to transmission and engine issues, including issues with shifting and engine performance. Some owners have also mentioned problems with suspension components and rust.
2010: The model had some reported issues with the power steering system, including potential sudden loss of power steering assistance. There were also complaints about engine problems and brake-related issues.
2014:The 2104 model suffered three recalls, mostly related to the brakes, the interior and electrical problems.
Find Your Preowned Mazda 3 at Easterns Automotive
Consistently reliable, elegant and budget-friendly, the Mazda 3 is the perfect car for those looking for style and performance without breaking the bank.
At Easterns Automotive, we’ve witnessed the popularity of the Mazda 3 among our customers and are here to help you find your match. Browse our pre-owned inventory and come into one of our DMV locations for a test drive.
A small act of kindness can make a big difference in someone’s day. On Random Acts of Kindness Day Easterns Automotive Group teamed up with ABC 7 during this Helping hands to surprise random people with gift cards.
Many were caught off-guard by the random gift and responded with great appreciation.
“You made a very stressful week that much better,” one person said. One person laughed and said, “You guys just made my day.” Another said, “Thank you so much, this is my lunch money!”
More than $2,000 worth of gift cards were handed out by the 7 News team in Virginia. Joel Bassam from Easterns Automotive Group loved the gesture of kindness, saying, “There’s no wrong way to give back.
A group of hospital staff and public safety employees joined us at the Circle Sunoco in Fairfax. To share the love and give back, Fox 5 and Easterns Automotive Group gave away free gas to the first hospital and public safety workers.
If you know someone who should be featured on Pay It Forward, you can nominate them at wttgpayitforward@fox.com. In your email, be sure to include who they are and why they deserve to be recognized.
Exotic cars garner attention for their luxury appeal and unique blend of performance and horsepower. To the untrained eye, they may seem frivolous, but car enthusiasts, racers and collectors alike all know exotic cars will always have their place in the automotive industry.
From undeniable power to the complexity of needing special instructions for handling and driving, the top ten exotic cars available in the US are sure to leave an impression.
1. Dodge Viper
Nicknamed the Widow Maker, the Dodge Viper is known for its intense power, exclusivity and for being difficult to handle on the road. It comes with a manual transmission that requires special driving lessons to handle due to the limited driver aids. The Dodge Viper production was introduced in the nineties with the help of Bob Klutz. It boasts the Italian V-10 engine. It is still around today, though it is difficult to maintain due to a limited supply of its unique parts.
2. Falcon F7
Made in Michigan, the Falcon F7 was the supercar dream of Jeff Lemke, Falcon Motorsport CEO. Its name is a tribute to the fact that it has several components that are based on US fighter aircraft, such as the exhaust and instrument gauges. The Falcon had an extremely low production run, and each vehicle is curated for the individual purchaser.
3. Ferrari Roma
The Ferrari Roma is an elegant exotic car from which all exterior detailing was removed to maintain its visual purity. According to Ferrari, this Roma is meant to embody the carefree, pleasurable lifestyle that exemplified Rome in the 50s and 60s.
4. Maserati MC20
The Maserati MC20 is a vehicle of firsts in its line. It is the first Maserati with a carbon fiber monocoque and the first to don the newest high-performance Nettuno engine. The vehicle has a total weight of fewer than 3,307 pounds, which is another one of its standout qualities. The light weight makes it optimal for speed and easy acceleration on the road.
5. Audi RS6 Avant
The Audi RS6 Avant is an exotic wagon that was released in the US in 2020. It has a 4L twin-turbo engine and can go from zero to 60 in less than four seconds. The RS6 is a supercar that can double as a family vehicle, with several safety features such as improved ventilated brakes and lane departure warning, all while toting the horsepower of the average race car.
6. DBS Superleggera
Aston Martin produced, the Superleggera travels with undeniable power and multiple build options, making it lightweight and fast. Whether you opt for the Grand Tourer, Coupe or Volante variety, the Superleggera delivers on performance aerodynamics with its carbon fiber exterior to optimize handling and road stability.
7. Ultimate Aero TT
The Ultimate Aero TT was crafted by SSC North America. The company was originally known as Shelby SuperCars Inc. This was their first vehicle, and it took design notes from Lamborghini as well as Koenigsegg. The Ultimate Aero uses butterfly doors that stand out amongst the competition because they open up and out rather than just up. The TT model arrived in 2007 and was equipped with a twin-turbo LS6 V8, which boasts just over 1,000 horsepower.
8. Chevrolet Corvette Stingray
The Chevrolet Corvette Stingray brought an impressive redesign from the Corvette line. It has an LT2 V8 engine which is the jewel of this vehicle. The mid-engine is visible through the rear hatch window, and the car can accelerate from zero to 60 in less than three seconds.
9. Bentley Continental GT
The Bentley Continental GT can be outfitted with either a V8 or a V12 engine and comes in both the coupe and convertible versions. This car makes the exotic list because of its upscale exterior, exclusive production and luxury price point. Its powerful engine combined with a luxe interior makes it the perfect blend between a supercar and an exotic vehicle.
10. Mosler MT900
The Mosler MT900 was created by Rod Trenne, who helped design the Corvette C5. It also comes in a racing version, the Mosler MT900R, which was specifically designed for speed and is road legal. The Mosler MT900 boasts a 350 horsepower LS6 V6 engine and a rear-wheel drive system allowing it to reach 60 miles per hour in 3.5 seconds.
Visit an Easterns Automotive Near You Today
Are you looking to purchase a used vehicle? Do you want the process to be simple and supportive? At Easterns Automotive, you can visit any one of our eight locations for stellar services as you pick out the vehicle of your dreams. We offer financing and trade-in offers and are ready to help you save today.
Call us at 877-867-0641 to connect with one of our team members.
Electric vehicles are so expensive because they are costly to produce and they are seen as high-value luxury items, so the premium price tag is validated by many purchasers.
Consumer perception has a large effect on the cost of electric vehicles as well. People are willing to pay more for an electric vehicle because they believe they can save with them long term. This allows brands to continue to market electric vehicles as having a higher value than their gas car counterparts.
Beyond these reasons, supply and demand are affecting the current price of electric vehicles. With more gas vehicles than electric vehicles in production, EVs have higher manufacturing costs with a limited supply of the materials needed to produce them. This contributes to the premium price tag for electric vehicle car shoppers.
Why Are EV Batteries So Expensive?
A large part of the high cost of electric vehicles is from the EV batteries. Batteries can range from $4,000 to $20,000, depending on your make and model. The materials that make up EV batteries are more expensive than those in traditional cars because they are larger and can hold more energy.
While innovation is allowing EV battery manufacturers to mediate costs by making the parts with different materials, they are still significantly pricier than their gas vehicle counterparts. It is also costly to invest in the research to develop alternative materials and methods for producing batteries for electric vehicles, which has continued to inflate the cost in recent years.
Low Supply Causing High Purchase Rates
Supplies are also affecting the cost to build electric vehicles, which is inflating the purchase price. Currently, there is a computer chip and semiconductor shortage, which are essential parts for electric vehicles. In some cases, this is stifling manufacturing’s ability to meet EV demand.
Additionally, the supply of neon is crucial to the laser tech used to create semiconductors. Neon is generally sourced from Ukraine, which is currently undergoing its own war and political disarray, directly affecting its economy and production of goods.
Luxury Brands Are Producing Electric Vehicles as Flagships
Another contributor to the high cost of electric vehicles is that many luxury brands manufacture them. Brands like Tesla, Rivian, Mercedes and BMW dominate the electric vehicle market, which inflates the perceived cost, as well as the actual cost of EVs.
As more luxury brands create electric vehicles as their flagship automobiles, people are becoming used to seeing EVs in a certain price range. This has the added effect of allowing them to maintain that price range, even when they are manufactured by more affordable car lines.
Another issue is that luxury lines may not offer gas vehicles to give them a comparative pricing point for their electric vehicle lines. This means that not only are luxury brands able to market electric vehicles at a premium price because of performance and design, but the prices are competing with other luxury vehicle models.
This means that EVs are being sold primarily as luxury vehicles, which in some cases they are, and it warrants a luxury price tag.
How Are Individuals Affecting EV Prices?
Individuals are a key factor in the increasing prices of electric vehicles. Consumer opinion affects the price and the value assigned to goods and services. This is no different within the traditional car market.
Electric vehicles are often marketed as luxury items intended to help consumers save money over time on fuel costs. This has the effect of increasing their perceived value, so people expect to pay more money up front for the future savings.
Not only does this allow brands to charge more, but it’s partially the basis for why prices are still increasing. As the price of gasoline trends up people begin to see more value in electric vehicles, which reinforces their willingness to pay premium prices. This encourages even non-luxury brands to charge what they feel their electric vehicles are worth, with relatively little pushback from their consumer base.
We offer financing and trade-in credits and will work with you to simplify the car-buying process. Give us a call at 877-867-0641 to see how we can help.
