Larchmont Chrysler Jeep Dodge

JOURNAL NEWS                                                                                                                      Friday, April 30, 2004

Futuristic rides, old school ethics: Larchmont Chrysler rolls out its newest toys

BY IAN D'GIFF

       Last Thursday, Larchmont Chrysler, located on Boston Post Road in Larchmont, played host at a special debut for four of Chrysler's hottest new automotives. The playful PT Cruiser Convertible, the versatile Pacifica, the revised Town and Country mini-van (with exclusive "Stow & Go" seats) and the new flagship Chrysler 300. Amid the flash of chrome, the scent of new car and the dazzle of blue and white balloons, dozens of attendees took in Chrysler's updates line-up, marveling at the fusion of sophisticated styling, cutting-edge technology and American engineering. "There has definitely been excitement about the new product line," says Eleanor Gulla, manager at the dealership. "Chrysler has improved the product and put a lot of content into the new cars, while keeping a very competitive price point."

      Take the top-of-the-line 300C, which includes the legendary, and now updated, HEMI 8 cylinder power block as an example. The automobile comes nicely equipped for around $32,995, fully loaded for under $35,000. The V6 version, equipped with A/C, power windows and door locks starts at $23,595. Both the versatile Pacifica AWD, which combines the utility of an SUV, the flexibility of an minivan and the handling of a luxury sedan and radically sculpted PT Cruiser Convertible (heck even the paint colors are playful - Inferno Red, Cool Vanilla, Electric Blue) elicited a chorus of ooh's and aah's from impressed onlookers. But, clearly, the belle of this ball was the 300C. Innovation points toward the future, while chrome abounds, on the 18-inch chrome-clad aluminum wheels, on the exterior of the side-view mirrors and across it's massive grille (which one onlooker described as "looking like it belongs on a Bentley.") The biggest news about the 300C is its 5.7-liter V8 Hemi engine, named for its hemispheric combustion chambers, giving the vehicle the most horsepower in its class (340hp). But this Hemi was created for the demands of the new century. The engine is equipped with Chrysler's Multi-Displacement System, which deactivates four of the eight cylinders during light acceleration or cruising. The improved furl economy is staggering at 17mpg city / 24mpg highway. Not surprisingly, most of the customers who were ready to purchase a new Chrysler knew they were in the right place. They've been doing business with Larchmont Chrysler and owner Alfredo Gulla for years.

From left to Right: Alfredo Gulla, Fernando Gulla,Silvana Gulla, Eleanor Gulla.  Just another happy family in a DaimlerChrysler product.

      Family-owned and operated since 1982, Larchmont Chrysler with patriarch Alfredo Gulla at the helm, has built its business and reputation upon the classic mom-and-pop paradigm. Alfredo's three children (Eleanor, Silvana, and Fernando) all work at the dealership. "We stand apart from the other dealerships in that we strive to be a nice place to do business," says Eleanor. "Our customers feel comfortable, knowing they can trust us. No hassles, no gimmicks, no high pressure sales tactics. We conduct ourselves with integrity." The Gullas refer to this as "relationships that we've formed with our customers and the personalized experience we offer. That's why we have such a loyal customer base." If that's not enough to pique your, consider the fact that the Gullas also own and operate Larchmont Jeep and Dodge dealerships under the same roof, as well. Service, featuring only factory-trained techs, and parts are done on the premises. The dealership operates seven-days a week for sales, Service is Monday through Friday 8 a.m.-5 p.m.. General manager Michael Gallagher puts it best, "Experience what personalized service is all about in a non threatening, no preassure atmosphere. You'll get a great deal at a great price without the gimmicks."