We are sure that many of you (if not all of you) watched the Super Bowl this past Sunday. Some of you tuned in for the actual football game, while other Grand Rapids car drivers tuned in for the commercials. This year’s advertisements included everything from dogs wearing gym shoes to partying vampires to M and M’s in the nude. Grand Rapids car drivers, what were your favorite 2012 Super Bowl commercials?

As you may suspect, there was one commercial favored above all the others for those of us at Van Andel and Flikkema Chrysler Jeep. We couldn’t help but swoon over Chrysler’s halftime commercial featuring an appearance made by none other than Clint Eastwood. Yes, we may be bias, but this ad really did stand out from the lineup, including the many commercials from other automakers.

“It’s halftime in America,” declared Clint, appropriately during the Super Bowl’s halftime.  In our eyes, the “It’s Halftime in America” commercial was the perfect follow up to last year’s wildly successful campaign featuring Detroit’s very own, rapper, Eminem. Rather than focusing on a specific model, Clint focused on fighting through tough economic times (as Chrysler has successfully modeled) toward a more prosperous second half, which lies ahead.

It hasn’t even been a week, but here at Van Andel and Flikkema Chrysler Jeep we believe this commercial will continue to generate positive buzz. Whether you enjoyed this ad or not, you cannot deny its authenticity. Clint, you made us proud to be associated with Chrysler…Bravo!

The 2012 Winter X Games will commence in Aspen, Colorado in less than five days. High-impact winter sports featured during this event include everything from skiing, to snowboarding, to snowmobiling. One event that is sure to keep viewers entertained is the Jeep Arctic Yeti Dig. The lucky winner of this competition will be awarded with a new, 2012 Jeep Wrangler Arctic edition.

Seven contestants will be taking place in the event. These contestants will be required to dig in a giant snow bank in search of the yeti. Six contestants were previously selected to receive a trip to Aspen to compete in this highly-anticipated event. The seventh contestant will be Hannah Teter, professional snowboarder and Winter X Games medalist. Hannah is one of the most successful snowboarders of all time and has won five X Games medals. She will be competing on behalf of one lucky contestant who was randomly selected, yesterday.

The 2012 Jeep Wrangler Arctic edition is a winter version, based on the Wrangler Sahara model. The model is available in Winter Chill, Bright Silver, and Bright White colors. The vehicle’s exterior features “Arctic” badges on the front fenders and a “Yeti Footprint” over the driver’s side fender and hood. The interior includes black Tectonic fabric seats with Polar White accents and orange stitching. Front seats include an “Arctic” logo. This is one 2012 Jeep Wrangler, Grand Rapids drivers will be able to recognize from the rest.

Tune into the Winter X Games on Friday, January 27th to find out who wins this one of a kind 2012 Jeep Wrangler. Grand Rapids drivers, you don’t want to miss this event.

The 2012 Chrysler 300 is now available at Van Andel and Flikkema Chrysler Jeep of Grand Rapids. Cars like the 300 have become favorites among drivers who are looking for a luxury driving experience for an affordable price. Chrysler believes that the 300 stands out among this category of affordable, luxury cars and U.S. News and World Report Agrees. The 2012 Chrysler 300 was ranked as one of their top “Affordable Large Cars”.

U.S. News and World Report ranked the 2012 Chrysler 300 as #3 out of the top seven “Affordable Large Cars”. This ranking was based on their analysis of 14 published reviews and test drives of the model, as well as analysis of reliability and safety data.

We are not surprised by this prestigious ranking, seeing as the Chrysler 300 has always been one of our favorite cars. Grand Rapids drivers have come to love this model for its refined interior, strong list of standard features, excellent safety ratings, and more.

One feature synonymous with the 2012 Chrysler 300 is its standard V6 engine (a Hemi V8 is available with upper trims). Improved for 2012 is the 300′s transmission. The latest model offers drivers a list of transmission options. Optional transmission equals improved performance, as well as fuel economy. Speaking of fuel economy…the 300 allows for an estimated 18 MPG for city driving and 27 MPG for highway driving.

The 2012 Chrysler 300 comes in five different trim levels including base, Limited, 300S, 300C, and 300C Luxury Series. All five trims are available right now at Van Andel and Flikkema Chrysler Jeep. Stop in and test drive your favorite, today.

With 2012 underway, Van Andel and Flikkema Chrysler Jeep is seeing the arrival of many new SUVs and cars. Grand Rapids drivers are sure to love the new, 2012 Chrysler 200. To learn more about this popular model, read on or stop by today.

Drivers are singing the praises of the 2012 Chrysler 200. This model is available in seven different trims including four door sedan and two door convertible options. The four door sedan version is available in four different trims and has a starting MSRP of $18,995. The 4dr Sedan LX has an estimated fuel economy of 21 MPG for city driving and 30 MPG for highway driving. The sportier, two door convertible version is available in three different trims and has a starting MSRP of $32,070. The 2dr Convertible S has an estimated fuel economy of 19 MPG for city driving and 29 MPG for highway driving.

Numbers aside, the 2012 Chrysler 200 is sure to be the perfect new ride for many drivers of Grand Rapids. Cars like the Toyota Camry and Hyundai Sonata are no match for the Chrysler 200, which has received stellar ratings and reviews in a variety of categories. For example, The Car Connection rated the Chrysler 200 as an 8 out of 10 in the categories of safety and quality. Furthermore, they noted the 200′s biggest strengths as technology/entertainment, quiet interior/smooth ride, strong V-6, and a balanced look inside and out.

To learn more or to test drive the 2012 Chrysler 200 or any of the other Chrysler models, visit Van Andel and Flikkema Chrysler Jeep of Grand Rapids today.

Grand Rapids car drivers have yet to see snow this winter season. However, they know it won’t belong before snow is covering the streets. That being said, Van Andel and Flikkema Chrysler Jeep, your Grand Rapids used car dealer, wants drivers to be prepared when the snow does fall. There is no better way for Grand Rapids car drivers to prepare for snow than with snow tires. So without further ado we are here to answer the most common questions that drivers have about snow tires.

1) How do snow tires differ from regular tires? 

The tread patterns of snow tires are designed to dig down into the snow and ice. Also, snow tires are made from soft rubber compounds that retain flexibility in cold weather; this allows the tire to conform to the surface of the road and get a better grip on snowy and icy surfaces. Grip is essential to ensure that the car can stop and steer in these conditions. Grip is also necessary when using life-saving conditions such as antilock breaks, electronic stability control, and all wheel drive.

2) Are all-season tires “good enough”?

Unfortunately, all-season tires are not “good enough,” especially with the heavy snow that can face Grand Rapids used car drivers in the upcoming months. All-season tires are designed to cope with a variety of weather conditions rather than just one condition, like snow.

3) Do snow tires have to go on all wheels of my car?

Yes, putting snow tires on your two front wheels will reduce the grip on the two back tires. This lack of balance will increase the car’s chances of spinning out or breaking while cornering. On the other hand, putting snow tires on your two rear wheels may cause the car to be less responsive to the steering wheel being turned. For these reasons, it is best to put snow tires on all four tires.

4) Can snow tires stay on my car all year? 

Yes, snow tires can be left on all year. However, this is not the best idea. Snow tires are generally noisier than regular tires. Also, the flexible material of these tires is more likely to wear out in warm weather. When the snow is melted for good, it is in your best interest to remove you snow tires and replace them with your regular tires. That way, the snow tires will be ready and in good condition for next year.

It seems like just yesterday that Van Andel and Flikkema Chrysler Jeep, your Grand Rapids car dealer, blogged about the “Imported from Detroit” ad campaign. The campaign was first launched during this year’s Super Bowl through a commercial containing none other than Detroit’s very own, rap artist Eminem and the Chrysler 200. With 2011 coming to a close, it is an appropriate time to reflect on the best commercials of the year. Your Grand Rapids used car dealer, Van Andel and Flikkema Chrysler Jeep, is happy to announce that the aforementioned ad has made the list.

Chrysler’s Born of Fire commercial, starring Eminem and the Chrysler 200, earned the number three spot on Adweek’s 10 Best Commercials of 2011 list. The commercial debuted back in February during the Super Bowl and has been a favorite of viewers ever since. Born of Fire was created by Wieden + Kennedy of Portland, Oregon. The ad was directed by Samuel Bayer of Serial Pictures.

The commercial is set to Eminem’s award-winning “Lose Yourself” and highlights the city of Detroit, home of Chrysler. Adweek’s Editor, Tim Nudd writes, “The year’s toughest, proudest, most defiant advertisement, it offered a gritty defense of a city, an industry, and a way of life, single-handedly bringing some of the old swagger back to Detroit and attacking those who would doubt the city’s heritage and conviction—or its ability to produce a worldclass luxury vehicle.”

It comes as no surprise to your Grand Rapids car dealer, Van Andel and Flikkema Chrysler Jeep, that Chrysler’s commercial has earned a spot on this list. Not only is Chrysler’s commercial a favorite among viewers, the ad also won the Emmy Award for best commercial of 2011.

Other commercials rounding out the best of 2011 include those from Snickers, Nissan, Cravendale, Deep Silver, Canal, TalkTalk, Google Chrome, Chipolte, and Volkswagen. Visit Adweek’s website to watch Chrysler’s Born of Fire commercial or any other’s on the list.

To view and/or test drive the Chrysler 200 or any of the other vehicles in Chrysler’s lineup stop by Van Andel and Flikkema Chrysler Jeep, your Grand Rapids used car dealer, today. You will be glad that you did.

Your Grand Rapids car dealer, Van Andel and Flikkema, houses the area’s largest selection of new and used Chrysler and Jeep vehicles. Stop by today to purchase the gift that is on everyone’s wish list this holiday season…a car, truck, or SUV from the Chrysler/Jeep lineup. New 2012 models are arriving to your Grand Rapids car dealer every day. Be the first to get your hands on one of these innovative rides, including a 2012 Jeep inspired by a popular video game.

You read that right. Jeep is releasing two 2012 limited edition models inspired by the popular ‘Call of Duty’ video game. The 2012 Jeep Wrangler and Wrangler Unlimited Call of Duty: MW3 models should be arriving to your Grand Rapids used car dealership, Van Andel and Flikkema Chrysler Jeep, any day now. The Jeep Wrangler will be available with an MSRP of $36,495 and the Unlimited version will start at $40,070.

The ‘Call of Duty: Modern Warefare 3′ video game was recently launched on November 8th. The fan favorite game prominently features the Jeep.

The 2012 Jeep Wrangler and Wrangler Unlimited Call of Duty: MW3 Special Edition are based on the Jeep Rubicon model. They will feature Rubicon wheels finished in semi-gloss black and paint available in either black or bright silver. A ‘Call of Duty: MW3 Special Edition’ graphic will appear on the front fenders and spare tire cover. Other unique features include a “power-dome” hood, a winch-ready front bumper, rear bumper, rock rails, taillamp guards, and a fuel-filler door. 32-inch off-road tires, live axles with locking differentials in the front and rear, and a two-speed transfer case will also be included. Interiorly, the limited edition model will feature black seats with accent stitching and Call of Duty logos, unique gauge cluster graphics, dashboard serialized plaque, dashboard grab handle with logo, accent stitching, and Mopar slush mats with logo.

Jeep has said that a new COD:MW3 model will be given away to one lucky driver via Facebook. Other drivers can learn more about this limited edition by visiting Van Andel and Flikkema Chrysler Jeep, Grand Rapids used car dealership. Don’t delay because this model is exactly what the name suggests…a limited edition.

Take advantage of the Big Finish of 2011 sales event going on right now at your Grand Rapids used car dealer, Van Andel and Flikkema Chrysler Jeep. Special incentives, in addition to our already low prices, are being offered on your favorite Chrysler and Jeep SUVs, vans, and cars. Grand Rapids drivers are sure to find the perfect holiday gift at this sales event. The only thing that will be hard about purchasing a Chrysler or Jeep vehicle for the holidays is getting it to fit under the tree. To learn more about the exciting incentives being offered during Chrysler and Jeep’s Big Finish of 2011 read on or stop by Van Andel and Flikkema Chrysler Jeep, the only place to purchase Grand Rapids cars, vans and SUVs.

Thought you couldn’t afford a Chrysler or Jeep vehicle this holiday season? Think again. With offers like these, everyone is sure to get exactly what they want for the holidays. Here is a preview of the great deals available at the 2012 Big Finish sales event.

Is a new sedan topping your wish list this year? If so, you’re in luck. Amazing incentives are being offered on the Chrysler 200 and 300 models. The 2012 Chrysler 200 Touring is available for a 36 month lease for only $199 per month and $2,999 due at signing. The 2012 Chrysler 300 can be purchased with 0% APR financing for up to 36 months.

Has a loved one asked for a new SUV to haul a tree and presents this holiday season? Unbeatable deals are available on all 2012 Jeep models. The exceptionally popular 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo 4 x 4 is available for a 36 month lease for only $319 per month and $2,499 due at signing. No security deposit is required. The 2012 Jeep Wrangler and Jeep Wrangler Unlimited can be purchased with 0% APR financing for up to 36 months.

Whether you are looking for a new sedan, SUV, or van, the Big Finish of 2011 can help any driver have a happy holiday season. To learn more about the Big Finish of 2011 hurry over to your Grand Rapids used car dealer, Van Andel and Flikkema Chrysler Jeep. As they say, all good things come to an end. Just like 2011, the Big Finish will be over before you know it.

It was not too long ago that the Chrysler Group announced their plans to introduce dual-clutch transmission (DCT) into the 2012 Chrysler 200 and 2012 Dodge Avenger sedans. As much as we were looking forward to this addition to our Grand Rapids cars, we have learned that plans have changed. Read on or stop by your Grand Rapids used car dealer, Van Andel and Flikkema Chrysler Jeep, to learn more about the introduction of dual-clutch transmission to Chrysler vehicles.

Chrysler’s original plans to introduce dual-clutch transmission into two, 2012 sedans have changed. Why? And when will we be seeing dual-clutch transmission in Grand Rapids cars?

Considering the fact that Chrysler and Getrag have been working on dual-clutch gearboxes since 2008, it may come as a surprise that we will not be seeing the final product in 2012 models. Rest assured, the Chrysler Group has a good explanation for this change of plans. Chrysler spokesperson Kathy Graham states that “DCT feels differently than what consumers are used to in the United States.” Therefore, Chrysler “felt that additional development” was necessary in order to ensure that “market expectations and driving requirements by U.S. consumers” were met. Graham states that the delay in introduction is merely due to Chrysler’s commitment to produce nothing less than a perfect product.

Your Grand Rapids used car dealer, Van Andel and Flikkema Chrysler Jeep, assures you that a delay in production does not mean that we will never see the arrival of dual-clutch transmission. In fact, it means the arrival of an absolute perfect product. Dual-clutch transmission is still planned for North American Chrysler vehicles and may be introduced as early as the 2012 Detroit Auto Show. The Dual-clutch transmission may be introduced in a compact car. Possibly the rumored 40 mpg compact, Dodge Hornet?

We will be sure to inform readers of any new information made available of the introduction of this exciting new feature. In the meantime, stop into our dealership to preview the current lineup of Chrysler and Jeep vehicles. Our lineup of cars, trucks, and SUVs is sure to please every driver. Stop by today and find the model that is perfect for you and your lifestyle.

Your Grand Rapids used car dealer, Van Andel and Flikkema, is your one stop shop for Chrysler and Jeep SUVs and cars. Grand Rapids drivers looking to preview the quality lineups offered by Chrysler and Jeep should look no further than our dealership. Here you can test drive the many Chrysler and Jeep vehicles including the 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee. There is no better time than now to test drive a Grand Cherokee, this model is officially the most awarded SUV in history.

Your Grand Rapids used car dealership, Van Andel and Flikkema Chrysler Jeep is proud to sell the most awarded SUV in history, the Jeep Grand Cherokee. Adding to its numerous accolades, the 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee has been named the “SUV of Texas” by the Texas Auto Writers Association for the second consecutive year. Yehaw! The Texas Auto Writers Association (TAWA) is made up of nearly 60 journalists.

In addition to being named the “SUV of Texas,” the Grand Cherokee’s Overland Summit model was named the “Luxury SUV of Texas”.  Additionally, the powerful and fuel efficient 2012 Jeep Wrangler earned the honor of being named the “Mid-size SUV of Texas” for the second consecutive year. These honors were announced at the annual TAWA Rodeo, a two-day test of the industry’s newest SUV and truck lineup over a variety of terrain. The event was held at the Knibbe Ranch near San Antonio, Texas.

During the event, journalists were given the opportunity to evaluate the vehicles of Jeep and its competitors over a two day period. On- and off-road evaluation time was had in order to consider each vehicles exterior styling, off-road capability, overall utility, value, and fuel efficiency. After these evaluations, Mike Herzing, TAWA President, is confident that “Grand Cherokee is a tremendous value for consumers, and is clearly the ‘SUV of Texas’.”

Not only is the Grand Cherokee the “SUV of Texas,” but one of history’s top selling cars. Grand Rapids drivers, make the 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee the “SUV of Grand Rapids” by stopping by Van Andel and Flikkema Chrysler Jeep today. The 2012 Grand Cherokee, in addition to all of the other award-winning SUVs in Jeep’s lineup, are on hand and waiting to be test driven by you.