Logically, buying used tends to get you a better deal than buying brand new when it comes to the auto industry. However, you may not know that there’s more than one pathway to buying a used car. Aside from the standard used vehicle, you can also buy a certified pre-owned (CPO) vehicle, most commonly found in local dealerships like Meadowland GMC in Carmel, New York.
While both options offer pre-owned vehicles at better price points than their brand-new counterparts, the standard used and CPO vehicles differ in several ways. Let’s explore CPO vehicles and the pros and cons of purchasing one as your next vehicle.
What Does GMC CPO Mean?
A CPO vehicle is a used car factory-certified by its manufacturer. Rather than your standard used car purchase, a CPO vehicle is inspected and restored, so you’re guaranteed to receive the car in its best possible condition. Meadowland’s GMC CPO vehicles, in particular, come with a scheduled maintenance program and a 6-year/100,000-mile powertrain limited warranty in addition to other benefits, such as 24-hour roadside assistance and courtesy transportation. In other words, a CPO vehicle is a used vehicle sold in a premium package, making it a cost-effective, trustworthy alternative to purchasing brand new.
Standard Used vs. GMC CPO Vehicles
Many factors must be considered when deciding between a standard used vehicle or a CPO vehicle, including the potential benefits and drawbacks, depending on your wants and needs. Let’s explore each option further alongside their respective pros and cons.
Standard Used
A standard used vehicle is an incredibly common purchase, attractive largely for the wide range of options available and the accessible price range. While every sale can vary, common elements should be considered when deciding whether or not to buy used.
Pros
A used vehicle remains the most affordable option when purchasing a car. While shopping for a used vehicle can be a bit unpredictable, especially from an independent seller, options are always available for any budget. Therefore, searching for a used vehicle is incredibly accessible. Not only that but there remains an infinite range of options regarding the make and model of the car you might be looking for. You can find virtually any vehicle available from an individual seller without the restraints of dealership inventories.
Cons
With seemingly limitless freedom comes a certain amount of risk that you must take on when shopping for a used vehicle. Though your options come at a reduced price, you may run into vehicles in anything from near-mint to appalling condition. It can be tough to vet your options if you don’t have enough mechanical know-how to spot small but significant issues. Therefore, if you or a friend can’t confidently ensure that a vehicle you’re looking into is in good enough shape to purchase, a supposedly great deal can quickly turn into a sinkhole of an investment.
GMC CPO
A CPO vehicle is a great option when shopping for a used car, as its premium perks are not usually available with the average used-car purchase. However, as with a standard used vehicle, certain considerations must be made when deciding if a GMC CPO vehicle is right for you.
Pros
If you’re looking for a pre-owned vehicle, buying certified offers some of the best advantages for a used purchase without needing to shop new. Not only do you avoid the risks of acquiring a used vehicle with an unknown past, but you also get extra rewards with your purchase at many dealerships, such as warranties, roadside assistance, free loan vehicles, and more. You’re also able to finance your purchase through a dealership, as opposed to purchasing from an individual. With all these benefits, buying CPO offers a high chance of purchase satisfaction.
Cons
With all of these extra benefits, such as background checks and extended warranties, CPO vehicles tend to cost more than your standard used vehicle. Thus, if you’re on a tight budget, buying CPO may not be such a feasible option. However, in addition to the options of financing or loans, you could save money on future servicing or repairs with the included factory warranty. Therefore, depending on your financial situation, this may still be a good option for you, especially if you prefer the peace of mind that a CPO vehicle offers.
How To Ensure a High-Quality Used Car Purchase
It can sometimes feel risky to purchase a pre-owned vehicle when you aren’t able to verify its past or present condition with 100% certainty. Indeed, your risk varies greatly whether you’re purchasing from an individual seller or a dealership, small or established. While you can rest assured that any GMC CPO purchase made with us at Meadowland is of high quality, there are still tried-and-true methods to gather more information on a pre-owned vehicle that you’re in the market for.
Have the car inspected by an independent mechanic that you trust: A seller can make any claims on the vehicle they’re selling — it’s best to verify for yourself that the car is in good condition and that there are no hidden damages or serious repairs required.
Search for the full vehicle identification number (VIN) online: Be sure to investigate thoroughly by searching the VIN in case there’s any information you may be missing.
Check for open recalls: Visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s website to search by VIN for any recalls.
Purchase a vehicle history report: Though these reports don’t guarantee the vehicle’s true history, they can reveal past accidents it may have been involved in. You can find these reports via companies such as CARFAX or AutoCheck.
Look for a used car with good ratings: Consumer Reports has an online database of the best-used cars to search for and their reliability or customer satisfaction ratings.
Shop for a CPO Vehicle With Meadowland GMC
The benefits and drawbacks vary between standard used and CPO vehicles, and much of your decision will rest on your current financial capabilities. If buying CPO interests you, we at Meadowland GMC would love to help you find the perfect GMC CPO vehicle. Contact us today at (888) 741-3918 or via our website to take advantage of our knowledgeable team and our large inventory of both standard and CPO used vehicles and finally get behind the wheel of a high-quality, new-to-you GMC.
Carmel, New York, and the surrounding area enjoy freezing temperatures and ample snow throughout the winter, making it a great destination for winter sports and activities. If you’ve enjoyed an indulgent holiday season with Thanksgiving turkey, Christmas ham, and other treats, some icy adventures may be just the thing to help you get back in shape. Try these destinations for delightful recreation that gets you moving this season.
Fahnestock Winter Park
Fahnestock Winter Park is a part of the larger Clarence Fahnestock Memorial State Park. The seasonal winter park offers abundant activities that take advantage of this area’s weather. With an elevation of 1,100 feet, this location gets plenty of snow throughout the winter season. The forested trails help protect the snow base, creating ideal conditions for sledding, tubing, skiing, and snowshoeing.
You’ll find over 12 miles of groomed ski trails for classic skiing and skate skiing. When conditions permit, the park maintains three levels of ski trails across easy, intermediate, and advanced terrain. A blazed snowshoe trail network provides many opportunities for trekking through this winter wonderland. With three distinct trails to choose from, you can undertake a snowshoeing adventure that matches your skill level. The groomed sledding hill is a family favorite, conveniently located right by the parking lot.
Though human activity is abundant around the park, you may also spot some wildlife among the mountain laurel and hemlock groves. Squirrels, deer, fishers, and beavers all call this area home. You might spot their footprints in the snow or even catch a glimpse of the creatures themselves. Ravens, chickadees, and pileated woodpeckers are also found in the area during the winter months.
This area features some historic highlights, such as the remains of stone walls from the 1800s on the Old Pasture Loop. On the CCC Loop, you’ll find the foundations and chimney of a 1930s Civilian Conservation Corp camp still standing.
Fahnestock Winter Park features a cozy lodge where you can enjoy hot food, snacks, and beverages. You can relax inside or gather around the outdoor fire pit. Restrooms and changing facilities are available for your convenience. The lodge offers equipment rentals for skate skiing, classic skiing, snowshoeing, sledding, and tow-behind skier baby pulks.
Location: 1570 Route 301, Carmel.
Brewster Ice Arena
The Brewster Ice Arena offers various winter activities on the indoor studio rink and outdoor pond. The pond surface is subject to change, but it typically presents plenty of opportunities for recreation between Nov. 14 and Feb. 26.
You can enjoy public skating on the pond from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on weekdays, with additional afternoon sessions on Tuesdays and Fridays starting at 3:10 p.m. The Friday Night Skate from 8:15 to 10:15 p.m. is a fun late-night way to celebrate the onset of the weekend. On Saturday and Sunday, you can enjoy public skating between 12:45 and 2:15 p.m. and from 3 to 4:30 p.m. From 7 to 9 p.m. on Saturdays, the public may skate indoors on the studio rink.
The Brewster Ice Arena also offers figure skating lessons, a skating club, and hockey teams for both children and adults. Sticks & Pucks sessions take place on the pond during the afternoons from Tuesday to Thursday, and they’re inside on Monday. You’ll find evening sessions in the studio on weeknights if you’re interested in open hockey. Open hockey takes place on the pond from 6:20 to 7:50 a.m. on weekends.
Location: 63 Fields Lane, Brewster.
Thunder Ridge Ski Area
The Thunder Ridge Ski Area offers both day and night skiing with 22 trails, four magic carpets, and three chairlifts. If you’d like to hone your skills throughout the season, you can enroll in a six-week program or sign up for daily lessons. Thunder Ridge even offers race programs for skiers between the ages of 9 and 20.
If you’d like to head out and practice skiing on your own simply, you can purchase your lift tickets and reserve ski rentals online to ensure a great experience. Thunder Ridge rents skis, boots, and poles for skiing as well as snowboards, boots, and wrist guards for snowboarding. The trail levels include easier, more difficult, and most difficult, providing plenty of variety for visitors.
Location: 137 Birch Hill Road, Patterson.
Evarts Rink
While most of the winter sports in and around Carmel are dependent on the weather, Evarts Rink offers an escape from the limitations of the weekly forecast with its fully enclosed ice rink. From September through June, the rink is open for hour-long figure skating sessions starting at 8, 9:10, 10:20, and 11:30 a.m.
You can walk on for a session anywhere from 30 minutes to three and a half hours on weekdays between 9 a.m. and 5:45 p.m. You can also walk on for 30 or 60 minutes on Saturday between 6 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. On Wednesdays, you can opt for a 30-, 60-, or 90-minute session between 6 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.
Location: 240 Jay St., Katonah.
Danbury Ice Arena
The Danbury Ice Arena is another popular option for indoor skating. With two rinks running seven days a week, there are plenty of opportunities to get out and glide. Pair an evening of skating with a romantic dinner for the ultimate date night, or head out with the clan for a family fun night. The arena hosts public skates, Sticks & Pucks, open hockey, and freestyle figure skating.
The Danbury Ice Arena steps up the fun with DJ Skate sessions from mid-October to mid-April. During these skate times, you’ll enjoy strobe lights, jumbotron videos, and bouncing tunes from a live DJ. The DJ Skate takes place on Friday nights from 8:30 to 10:30 p.m.
Location: 1 Independence Way, Danbury.
There you have it. Meadowland GMC just shared our favorite spots for winter fun. Are you ready to head out and experience these highlights? Let us know if we missed a spot you enjoy, and if you need a new vehicle to help you tackle the snow this season, we can help. Drop in and check out the latest inventory at Meadowland GMC.
Carmel, New York, offers no shortage of satisfying restaurants. In fact, you’ll find so many options that the hardest part of dining out is often just choosing where to go. If you’re looking for something simple, such as soup or a salad, you’ll want to target a restaurant that does it right. Rich, flavorful soups and crisp, veggie-laden salads make even a light lunch feel like an indulgence. Here are our top picks for where to go.
Greek Village
If you enjoy Greek flavors, there’s just one restaurant you need on your radar for a great lunch. One satisfied customer of Greek Village enthused in their review that they “love their salads and Greek specialties.” This is for a good reason, as the salad menu includes more than half a dozen options.
If you like to keep it light, the tossed and Caesar salads are classic picks. The Greek salad is quintessential, featuring tomato, cucumber, red onion, pepperoncini, olives, and feta cheese on a bed of lettuce, dolmades, and a drizzle of anchovy oil and red wine vinegar.
If you want to pack some protein into your salad, the spinach salad is a great option, featuring spinach, mushrooms, red onion, hard-boiled egg, feta, and bacon. The Greek cobb salad is another protein-packed choice with hard-boiled egg, bacon, and avocado. The chef’s salad layers on turkey, ham, roast beef, American cheese, and Swiss cheese. If you prefer ocean-inspired flavors, try the seafood salad piled high with shrimp, calamari, and crab meat. Greek Village is a great option when you want a salad that will keep you full.
Location: 1856 US-6, Carmel Hamlet.
Hours: 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily.
Carmel Diner
Family-owned and operated for more than 25 years, the Carmel Diner is a local staple that’s too good to miss. One satisfied reviewer put it perfectly, saying it provides “good service, and their soups are the best.” All the soups at Carmel Diner are served fresh daily. Options include chicken noodles, matzo ball, onion, clam chowder, French onion, and chili.
The salad selection also offers an abundance of choices. You can choose a simple garden salad to pair with a hearty bowl of soup or simply opt for a larger entree salad. The Carmel salad delight is a specialty featuring romaine lettuce, grilled chicken, dried cranberries, feta cheese, and balsamic vinaigrette. The Tuscan salad is hearty with grilled chicken, avocado, roasted peppers, and fresh mozzarella. If you fancy a little extra kick, try the Santa Fe fajita salad with grilled chicken, Monterey jack cheese, and nacho chips. This restaurant will easily become your new lunchtime favorite.
Location: 63 Gleneida Ave., Carmel.
Hours: 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday to Thursday and 7 a.m. to midnight Friday and Saturday.
Thai Golden
Thai Golden offers flavor-packed soups and salads that will shake up your routine. The options here are far from ordinary, showcasing the full range of what a soup or salad can be.
The Thai salad has mixed greens, cucumber, tomato, carrot, red cabbage, and fried tofu in peanut sauce. The Som Tum salad features green papaya, tomato, carrot, string beans, and peanuts in a dressing of lime, sugar, and fish sauce. Add enticing shrimp to the mix with the mango salad, including pineapple, tomato, red onion, scallions, and cashews. The crispy duck salad adds intriguing flavors from scallions, mint, pineapple, and mango.
You’ll find several Thai favorites on the soup menu, such as tom yum goong with shrimp and mushrooms in lemongrass and chicken broth. The tom kha gai features chicken and mushrooms in coconut milk and chicken broth. The vegan coconut kale soup gets raving reviews with its blend of coconut milk, broccoli, potato, kale, garlic, ginger, and lemongrass. You can also order one of several noodle soups with chicken, beef, or duck.
Location: 5 Seminary Hill Road, Carmel.
Hours: 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. and 4 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Sunday, Monday, and Thursday and 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. and 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday.
Northwood Inn
The Northwood Inn reflects the owner’s Polish roots. The soups and salads reflect this by offering hearty options rich in meats, mushrooms, and spices. You can choose for your soup from a veggie-packed chicken soup, homemade French onion soup, or special day soup. These delicious options are so well-made you can even target Northwood Inn for a special date night dinner.
The signature Northwood salad has field greens, iceberg lettuce, and romaine lettuce with red onions, tomatoes, chopped bacon, avocado, hard-boiled egg, and grilled chicken. The grilled vegetable and Portobello salad is another mouthwatering favorite with a mesclun salad mix topped with grilled bell peppers, squash, Portobello mushrooms, and fresh mozzarella.
Location: 14 Frances Kiernan Place, Carmel.
Hours: Noon to 10 p.m. Tuesday to Sunday.
McCarthy’s Grill House
Numerous reviewers call out the great soups at McCarthy’s Grill House. The daily soup selection includes three decadent homemade options: French onion, lobster bisque, and New England clam chowder. You’ll also find a selection of seasonal soups that reflect the best flavors any time of the year. These hearty options are great when you want a warm, comforting lunch.
The salad menu provides plenty of additional options with a chef’s salad, cobb salad, taco salad, buffalo chicken salad, cranberry bleu salad, and oriental Asian salad. You can also get a large or small house or Caesar salad. If you choose the large option, you can add grilled/Cajun chicken or grilled/Cajun shrimp to make a real meal of it. McCarthy’s Grill House also offers a seasonal summer menu.
Location: 374 Route 52, Carmel.
Hours: 11:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. Monday to Saturday and noon to 8 p.m. Sunday.
Do you know of other great restaurants in Carmel for soup or salad? Contact our team at Meadowland GMC and let us know, so we can update our listing. We want to have the best recommendations in town for our customers.
Finding the right vehicle for your family is no small task. You need comfy seating, ample entertainment, a powerful engine, and an abundance of safety features to ensure your crew is well-protected on the road. From ample USB charging ports for your teens’ devices to a built-in vacuum to clean up after toddlers, there’s no end to the features that can make your driving experience easier. Here are our top picks for family vehicles.
GMC Yukon
The GMC Yukon offers spacious seating with room for up to eight passengers, making it an ideal vehicle for families. The 2023 Yukon offers an impressive 42.3″ headroom in the front, 38.9″ in the second row, and 38.2″ in the third row. The front seats deliver 44.5″ of space for your legs. The second row is also spacious, with 42″ or room, while the third row offers a comfy 34.9″.
Those in the front enjoy the 10.2″ diagonal GMC infotainment system, while second-row riders can kick back with dual 12.6″ diagonal media touch screens streaming videos from YouTube and Hulu. A Bose 18-speaker sound system delivers crisp audio for all your media needs. Everyone can keep their devices charged with up to six USB ports and wireless charging. The Yukon has two 110-volt power outlets and one 12-volt power outlet, making it a great vehicle for tailgating, camping, and other adventures where you want extra power.
In addition to these comforts, you’ll find an impressively powerful ride. The AT4, SLT, and SLE come standard with a 5.3L V-8 engine that delivers 355 horsepower and 383 lb-ft of torque. The Yukon Denali and Denali Ultimate come standard with a 6.2L V-8 engine that provides 420 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque. If you have a camper or trailer to haul, the Yukon offers an optional Max Trailering Package that will increase your towing capacity to 8,400 lbs.
The GMC Yukon offers a range of safety features, including automated emergency braking, rear park assist, and forward collision monitoring. Also available are adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, lane departure warning, and more. The NHTSA gave the 2023 Yukon a four-star overall crash safety rating.
GMC Acadia
The 2023 GMC Acadia has everything you could want in a midsize SUV. You’ll find comfortable seating for up to seven passengers with handy features, such as Smart Slide second-row seats and 50/50 split seats in the third row to help you customize your space as needed, whether you’re shuttling a large crew of passengers or hauling oversize cargo. Tri-zone climate controls help everyone enjoy a comfortable environment, no matter where they’re sitting.
Slightly smaller than the Yukon, the front seats of the 2023 GMC Acadia offer 40″ of headroom, while those in the second-row offer 39.6″ and the third row offers 37.2″ The driver and front passenger enjoy 41″ of legroom, while the second row provides 39.7″, and the third row offers 29.7″. An 8″ diagonal infotainment system will help inform all your adventures, while the available Bose premium eight-speaker sound system can bump your favorite tunes.
The GMC Acadia SLT and SLE come standard with a 2.0L Turbo engine providing 228 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. The Denali and AT4 come standard with a 3.6L V-6 engine that offers 310 horsepower and 271 lb-ft of torque. All trims feature the Traction Select system, which allows you to seamlessly switch between up to five drive modes so you’re always well-equipped for whatever driving conditions you encounter.
All trims come standard with GMC Pro Safety Plus, which provides forward collision alert, automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, lane departure warning, following distance indicator, lane change alert, side blind zone alert, front pedestrian braking, rear park assist, rear cross-traffic alert, and more. You can’t get much better regarding your family’s safety. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) awarded the 2023 GMC Acadia a five-star overall safety rating.
Chrysler Pacifica
In 2022, Parents magazine named the Chrysler Pacifica the Best Family Car — the third consecutive year this vehicle has been featured on the list. As the most awarded minivan six years in a row, there’s no question that this is one of the best family vehicles on the market. The Pacifica offers seating for up to eight passengers with 40.1″ of headroom in the front, 39.6″ in the second row, and 38.7″ in the third row. The front row offers 41.1″ of legroom, with 39″ in the second row and a generous 36.5″ in the third.
You can customize the technology in the Pacifica to suit your family’s needs. You’ll find options such as the Uconnect 5 infotainment system with up to five user profiles and 19 handy widgets. Ten-inch HD seat-back touch screens can provide videos, games, and more to keep passengers entertained. The FamCam allows you to gaze down at your passengers from the driver’s seat. You can even add a Stow ‘n Vac integrated vacuum to your vehicle to keep things clean.
Under the hood, the Pacifica packs a 3.6L V-6 engine with 287 horsepower. The best-in-class 3,600-pound towing capacity allows you to bring along some of your favorite toys, a standout feature for a minivan. The Pacifica is the only model in its segment to offer an optional fully automatic all-wheel-drive system. It provides maximum traction for rough terrain and allows you to romp into big adventures.
The Pacifica offers a wide range of safety features, including forward collision warning with active braking, pedestrian automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, blind spot monitoring, rear park assist, and more. The NHTSA gave the 2022 Pacifica a five-star overall safety rating.
If you’d like to take one of these vehicles for a test drive and check out their features firsthand, come visit our team at Meadowland GMC. We’ll walk you through all your options and help you find the best family vehicle.
If your vehicle isn’t running as it used to and you’re ready to upgrade your ride, it’s a great time to consider trading it in. A trade-in is a transaction that allows you to receive credit toward the purchase price of a new car by giving the dealer your old vehicle. Sure, you could sell your vehicle yourself, but do you want to deal with the time and stress of a private sale?
Trading in your car is a great way to secure a good deal and lower your monthly car payment without all the hassle. With proper preparation, the process can be even easier. Meadowland GMC guides you on what you should do before trading in your car.
Touch Up Your Old Ride
When you’re trading in your vehicle, attention to detail is important. Before heading to a dealership, ensure your vehicle is in good shape. The physical and mechanical conditions of your vehicle are the most important factors that affect the value of your car.
If you have minor cosmetic issues such as scratches or small dents, it’s a good idea to invest a small amount of money in fixing them. Doing a thorough cleaning can also go a long way. If your vehicle has serious problems, such as transmission or engine issues, it’s better to sell it as is to the dealer. They’ll have the necessary skills and resources to fix these issues at a lower cost. A well-maintained vehicle will fetch a better price but don’t pay more to fix the vehicle than it’s worth.
Know the Value of Your Car
Do your homework and find out the value of your vehicle. Before you start negotiating with the dealer, you should know how much your car is selling for. This can help you feel empowered and make an informed decision regarding your trade-in.
You can use free online tools, such as Kelley Blue Book or Edmunds, to determine the worth of your vehicle. These sites can help you estimate the value of your car based on various factors, such as its make, model, year, and mileage. Involvement in a major accident or having a salvage title are the most common things that could prevent you from getting a good price for your trade-in. However, if the market for your vehicle is competitive, it might be worth more, regardless of condition.
Get Multiple Offers
Before you start negotiating, get multiple trade-in quotes. This strategy can help you leverage your position during negotiating. Depending on the condition of the car and the dealer’s inventory, your trade-in offer might vary. Use the highest offer as the basis for the negotiation.
Ensure that the trade-in and sale prices align with those featured in online pricing guides. Try to get all offers in writing. If you want to negotiate for a higher price, you can use the documents you have available to back up your offer and prove the value of your car.
Gather Your Documents
Before you can officially trade in your car, you’ll need to provide the following documents.
Car title: If you own the vehicle, you’ll need to bring the title to confirm you have the authority to transfer ownership. You can contact the dealership to get a replacement if you lose the title.
Registration: Whether you paid off the vehicle or not, the registration can serve as proof of ownership.
Maintenance records: You should also bring maintenance records, which can prove that you took the necessary care of your vehicle. Having these documents can help you get a higher price for the car.
Loan information: If you’re still paying off the loan, you should bring the necessary documents, such as the lender’s account number and the amount of money left after the loan has been paid.
Don’t feel obligated to get a vehicle history report — the dealers will pull one themselves. You should also bring spare keys and other vehicle-related accessories. Dealers will not give you the full credit for your trade-in if you don’t have these items.
Negotiate
All of the previous steps have led up to this moment: the negotiation. Gathering all the necessary information before stepping into the dealership gives you a better chance of snagging a good deal. Bring in those valuable documents and try targeting the end of the month to see if the dealer will be more willing to give you a more attractive offer. Look for special promotions, like a dealership offering a cash-back on your used car during a trade-in event.
You can negotiate the terms of your trade-in and purchase agreement separately to ensure you get the best possible value for your vehicle. Don’t be afraid to walk away if you think you aren’t getting a good deal for your trade-in.
Close the Deal
Get all of the details of the deal in writing. You’ll want to carefully review the contract to confirm that the numbers are correct. The amount you agreed to when you traded in should also be included in the contract. In some states, the difference between the new and the old car can be considered a sales tax credit. This means you’re not paying more taxes on the new car.
Pay attention to the price of your new vehicle. Any equity from the trade-in will be credited toward the purchase of the car. You’ll have to pay the negative equity if you’re still upside-down on your loan. You can handle this situation in several ways, including making a cash payment on the difference or rolling the equity into the new loan. After reviewing your contract, handling any issues, and signing on the bottom line, you can drive off in your brand-new car.
It’s worth researching to ensure you get the most out of your trade-in. We hope this guide helps you feel prepared to start the process. Do you know any good tips for trading in your vehicle? Contact our team and let us know. If you feel ready to take the leap and trade in your old car, our helpful sales associates are here to assist you.
When the snow starts to fall and covers the landscape like a blanket, finding something fun to do becomes more challenging. This time of year, people often want to stay indoors where it’s warm and cozy. However, venturing into lovely Danbury, Connecticut, has many advantages. It is essential to get fresh air, no matter the season. No matter your interests, there are many things to do, even in the cold. Read on to discover our picks for the top five winter events you won’t want to miss in Danbury, Connecticut.
Tarrywile Park and Mansion
If you want to soak up the magical winter landscape, consider visiting the Tarrywile Park and Mansion. A local favorite for weddings and special events, the historic Tarrywile Mansion makes an impressive backdrop for one-of-a-kind photos. Visit this immaculately restored 1897 mansion and use the opportunity to take pictures to post on your social media accounts or as your new profile picture.
Tarrywile Park is a 722-acre municipal park open to all residents of the Greater Danbury area. The Park was once an active dairy farm and fruit orchard. Now, it offers 21 miles of hiking trails, two ponds, a lake, and several picturesque picnic spots for the community to enjoy. The Tarrywile Park and Mansion are located at 70 Southern Boulevard. For more information or to learn about their catering and special event rental rates, call 203-744-3130.
The Danbury Fair Mall
The Danbury Fair Mall is a great destination for some retail therapy. Inside you’ll find warmth and protection from the cold winter wind, a vast selection of contemporary stores, and a food court ready to satisfy those shopping munchies. If you’ve got little ones, you’ll want to sign up online and join the Kids Club to be notified about the special seasonal events. Take a break during your shopping trip to treat the kids to a fun merry-go-round ride for a lasting memory.
The Danbury Fair Mall is located at 7 Backus Ave. Check the website for a detailed listing of stores and their hours of operation. For more information, including mall specials, call 203-830-4380.
The Danbury Ice Arena
The Danbury Ice Arena is the perfect destination for your family to spend quality time together and burn off some pent-up energy. They offer various activities, such as freestyle figure skating, open hockey, and public skating. Don’t miss DJ Skate Fridays from 8:30 to 10:30 p.m., where you can get your groove on out on the ice. This impressive setup features strobe lights, a jumbotron, and an upgraded sound system. Prices for this event vary but start at $10 if you buy tickets online in advance.
Another featured special is the $40 family pack with four tickets to a Danbury Hat Tricks hockey game, including two $10 arcade cards. Classes are available for kids and adults that want to take up figure skating, speed skating, or ice hockey. Check the schedule to see which times work for you. Hockey teams are also an option for youth who want to join in a competitive sport.
The Danbury Ice Arena is at 1 Independence Way. Regular arena hours are Tuesday through Thursday from 5-11 p.m., Friday from noon to midnight, Saturday from 7 a.m. to midnight, Sunday from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m., and Monday from noon to 11 p.m. For more information, visit the website or call 203-794-1704.
Xtreme Play
If you have pent-up energy but don’t want to be outdoors, consider visiting Xtreme Play. While this establishment is open year-round, a visit during the winter months is a great way to let off extra indoor energy. The activities are priced separately, or you can purchase a discounted bundle with four or five attractions of your choice. Choose from laser tag, a high ropes course, mini-bowling, and Ballocity, a huge indoor play area featuring tube slides and ball pits. If you want thrills, check out the state-of-the-art 3D dark ride or the Omni-Arena, a virtual-reality immersive gaming experience.
Xtreme Play is at 38 Mill Plain Road. Check the website for the current hours, as they’ve just been updated. For more information or to schedule your event or winter birthday party, call 203-590-5767.
The Connecticut Winter Classic
The Connecticut Winter Classic is an annual hockey tournament that takes place in Danbury. This is a can’t-miss event for hockey lovers and families who like to watch live sports. Hosted primarily at the Danbury Ice Arena on 1 Independence Way, the familiar location makes it a great event for the community. Many locals have made it an annual tradition to support their favorite teams and enjoy delicious food at the arena’s new café and bar. It is hard to say no to a craft beer and a cheeseburger in the middle of winter.
20th Annual Festival of Trees
The 20th Annual Festival of Trees is Danbury’s traditional celebration of all things winter. Taking place Friday, November 18, this signature holiday event serves as a fundraiser for Ann’s Place, a community-based cancer support service. There is something for everyone, including live entertainment, a Children’s Winter Village, and an online auction. The Festival of Trees creates holiday magic with a forest of decorated trees, high-end raffle prizes, a craft fair, and the Boutique and Quilter’s Corner gift shops. Get some holiday shopping done and support a good cause simultaneously.
Ann’s Place is located at 80 Saw Mill Road. For more information about the event or to learn how to donate to Ann’s Place, check out their website or call 203-790-6568.
So there you have it. The team here at Meadowland GMC has enjoyed sharing our list of Danbury, Connecticut’s top five winter events. No matter the weather, there is always something to do all winter long in Danbury. What did you think of our list? Did we miss your favorite winter event in Danbury? If we did, please let us know. Leave us a message sharing your thoughts, and we’ll be happy to check out your ideas. You may even find your suggestion featured on one of our lists in the future.
It’s time for your household to welcome a dog- a rescue- not just any dog. Rescuing a dog can make as much of a difference in your life as your new best friend’s life. In and around Carmel, you can find several dog rescue spots to help you find the perfect match for your family and lifestyle. Whether you’re looking for a lap dog to snuggle, a hunting dog to take on adventures, or a puppy to grow with your child, you’re sure to find what you need. Here’s where to rescue a dog around Carmel, New York.
Putnam Humane Society
Marjorie Jenkins started the Putnam Humane Society in a small barn on Nichols Street in 1957 as one of the first no-kill shelters in the county. Putnam Humane Society moved to a new location on Old Route 6 behind the Putnam Plaza to allow it to expand and grow over the years while providing a vital service for the community.
You can visit the Putnam Humane Society at 68 Old Route 6 in Carmel from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. seven days a week. Remember that dogs can be viewed every day from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., so if you’re looking for a dog, you’ll want to arrive during those hours. For more information or answers to any questions, you may have, call Putnam Humane Society at 845-225-7777.
Happy Life Animal Rescue
Happy Life Animal Rescue (HLAR) focuses on finding forever homes for pets surrendered by their owner or victims of shelter overpopulation, abuse, and neglect. HLAR is a non-profit animal rescue organization in the Hudson Valley. You can find the biographies of available pets online to help you connect with the right four-legged friend. The adoption application is also available online, so you can get started before you meet your potential future pet. HLAR is foster-based, so all animals are located in foster homes, and there is no shelter to visit.
PawSafe Animal Rescue
PawSafe Animal Rescue started in 1995 to provide homes to companion animals without homes and rescue animals from kill shelters. The goals of PawSafe include:
Preventing cruelty to animals through animal protection laws.
Sharing their knowledge of animal welfare organizations.
Reducing overpopulation through spay/neuter programs.
Developing compassion towards these animals through community education.
PawSafe also works to find homes or shelters for injured, sick, abandoned and abused animals.
You can view the gallery of dogs for adoption at PawSafe Animal Rescue online to find a furry friend that fits your family. Once you’ve found your dog, you can submit an online application questionnaire and make an appointment to meet your potential pet. Adopted dogs are updated in the gallery in real-time to reduce the chances of falling in love with a dog online after someone else has already adopted it. PawSafe has two locations: 110 Sandy Beach Road in Ellington, Connecticut, and 311 Route 292 in Patterson, New York.
Take Me Home Pet Rescue
Take Me Home Pet Rescue is a non-profit organization dedicated to saving the lives of puppies and dogs located in high-kill shelters. Take Me Home is responsible for all medical care of the animals, including vaccinations, microchipping, and spay/neuter services. After a veterinarian checks the animals, they are sent to area foster homes that open their homes and volunteer their time to care for these dogs until they’re adopted. Available pets and the application required to adopt from Take Me Home Pet Rescue can be found online.
NYC Second Chance Rescue
Another non-profit organization helping to save the lives of dogs is the NYC Second Chance Rescue, established in 2009. You can view the adoptables and complete your dog adoption application online to bring home a new best friend. NYC Second Chance Rescue runs specials on their adoptable, such as Loving Large, for all dogs over 50 pounds. You get their weight in savings, so if you have a 70-pound dog, you save $70 on its adoption fee: the bigger the dog, the bigger the discount, and the bigger the love.
Paws Crossed Animal Rescue
Paws Crossed Animal Rescue is a no-kill non-profit organization working to save dogs one at a time. You can find them at 100 Warehouse Lane South in Elmsford, New York. You can adopt dogs, cats, and even barn cats to help control the rodent population around your country home. Available animals are viewable online, along with the adoption questionnaire to get you started toward pet ownership.
Paws Crossed also has a special Seniors for Seniors adoption program that matches owners over 70 with pets over seven years old for a discount. You can visit them Monday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. or Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. to complete an application form, meet your future fur baby, or complete the adoption process. For more information, contact Paws Crossed Animal Rescue at 914-372-7878.
A Good Dog Rescue
A veterinarian has examined all dogs at A Good Dog Rescue. They have also been vaccinated, microchipped, and either spayed or neutered before adoption. A Good Dog Rescue has adult dogs and puppies available, with dogs under six months requiring age-appropriate vetting.
You can view the available dogs online or meet the dogs in person from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., seven days a week. Appointments are also available for those unable to make it to A Good Dog Rescue during regular business hours. You can find A Good Dog Rescue at 260 6th St. in Verplank, New York, or call them at 914-469-6605.
Rescuing a dog makes at least two lives happier, and the team at Meadowland GMC hopes you connect with your four-legged friend to make that happen. If you need a new GMC to get you to a local rescue or to take your new furry friend on future adventures, see us at 1952 Route 6 in Carmel, New York. Our sales team is available Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., closing at 6 p.m. on Friday and Saturday. You can complete our secure online form or call us at 888-741-3918 to get started.
If you’re looking for an incredible SUV with all the hallmarks of GMC quality, the GMC Acadia and Terrain should be at the top of your list. Each offers a sleek exterior style, futuristic interior design, and state-of-the-art performance with excellent safety features. Given their similarities, choosing between them can be difficult, so we’ve highlighted a few aspects worth considering in this article.
Introducing the Acadia
The Acadia is a crossover seven-seater SUV. It offers a 2.6-liter or 3.6-liter engine, a twin-clutch all-wheel-drive (AWD) system in the All-Terrain package, and redesigned lighting. The current model’s fuel economy has increased substantially compared with past designs to 18 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway. In 2020, it received a face-lift with new exterior styling, a new infotainment system that now includes Apple Car Play and Android Auto smartphone integration, and alloy wheels.
Introducing the 2022 Terrain
Like the Acadia, the GMC Terrain was first produced in April 2009. The second generation GMC Terrain, released in 2018, offers three trims with different engine choices, daytime running headlights, and a 7-inch touch screen. A luxury edition is available, known as the GMC Terrain Denali. A refreshed version was made available in 2022. There are two engine sizes available at 1.5 liters and 2.0 liters, with a top fuel economy of 27 mpg with the smaller 1.5-liter engine. A natural gas version of the GMC Terrain offers gasoline or natural gas options. You can retrofit the car to a natural gas version, reducing your running costs.
The Acadia Versus the Terrain on Performance
The Acadia and the Terrain provide high-powered performance, offering AWD and front-wheel drive (FWD) options. Both have a nine-speed automatic transmission and offer the StabiliTrak electronic stability control as standard. You will experience a high level of performance from both models.
More engine options are available with the Acadia, with greater power and towing capacity. With its 3.6-liter V-6 engine, the Acadia issues 310 hp, with 271 pounds per square foot of torque. However, if you don’t need this much power, a 2.5-liter four-cylinder version offers 193 hp and 188 lb-foot of torque, and a 2.0-liter four-cylinder model provides 230 hp and a torque of 258 lb-ft.
The Terrain offers a choice of two engines: a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 170 hp and 203 lb-ft of torque or a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder with 252 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque. Despite these differences in engine size, both offer you a powerful vehicle with comparable acceleration rates.
Notably, the smaller Terrain 1.5-liter engine has usually outperformed the Acadia in fuel economy since these SUVs were first produced, so if you’re looking at a preowned model or an early edition, fuel efficiency is a concern, go for the Terrain. If you’re considering the most recent models, however, the Terrain now manages 28 mpg on the highway, and the Arcadia is close at 27 mpg. Therefore, the Terrain is generally a better option for lower running costs, although these differences are becoming more marginal.
The Terrain is fully capable of off-road activities aided through the capability offered by its Traction Select system. The Acadia is better suited to off-roading, given its advanced all-terrain tires. Whereas the Terrain can tow 3,500 lbs, the Acadia raises this to 4,000 lbs, making it slightly better when more power and varied usage are needed.
The Acadia Versus the Terrain on Design
The first noticeable difference between the two vehicles is their size and shape. The Terrain is a compact SUV, the Acadia is a more mid-sized model. The Acadia has three rows of seats, which can comfortably seat six or seven people. There are 79 cubic feet of cargo space in the Acadia if you only use two rows of seats.
In contrast, the Terrain is a two-row SUV, comfortably seating five, and holds 63.3 cubic feet of cargo space. The Terrain has 29.8 feet of space behind the second row, with the Acadia offering 41.7 cubic feet. However, if you need to use the second row of seats, there are only 12.8 cubic feet of space behind the third row of the Acadia if all three rows are up.
These differences suggest that the Acadia is a better choice if you either need to transport many people or need a lot of cargo space. Both models offer the same level of legroom at a surprisingly roomy 39.7 inches. For the Acadia, the legroom in the third row falls to 31.1 inches, so this would be good for kids but less suitable for taller passengers.
The Arcadia Versus the Terrain on Safety
Both the Terrain and the Acadia offer advanced safety features. The GMC Pro Safety suite is available in both models, with the Acadia offering the additional GMC Pro Safety Plus option. This option includes rear park assist, which comes optional with the Terrain. Both models have a lane-keep assist feature, warning the driver when the lane is being departed, automatic emergency braking, following distance indicator, and forward collision alert. Both models provide good safety features, with the 2020 GMC Terrain receiving a five-star rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
Conclusion To the Acadia and the Terrain Comparison
Which of these vehicles is preferred depends ultimately on your situation. Bigger families can use the third row for smaller kids, so the Acadia makes sense if this is a consideration. For those who want to make the best use of fuel economy in these turbulent times, the Terrain would be a better choice. However, if off-roading is your thing or you spend much time in the countryside, the Acadia performs slightly better in these conditions.
Comparing similar models available at Meadowland GMC, the cost of the most recent 2023 Acadia is $46,205, whereas the most recent Terrain is available for $42,345. The best way to choose is to come and look at these two models side-by-side and take them through their paces. At Meadowland GMC in Carmel, New York, there is a wide range of Acadia and Terrain vehicles available, so why not come by and check them out?
The GMC Sierra truck is a powerful and modern pickup with many features for the pickup market. With this truck, you have all of the power and versatility GMC is known for in a modern package.
Whether you’re looking to purchase or lease a GMC Sierra truck, Meadowland GMC in Carmel, New York, has you covered. Check out our GMC Sierra FAQ below to learn more about this popular truck and the features that set it apart from the pack.
How Long Is the GMC Sierra?
The Sierra varies in length depending on what model you are looking forward to purchasing. For instance, the Sierra 1500 comes in regular, double, and crew cab models. Depending on your chosen model, the wheelbase ranges from 241.5 to 211 inches long. The Sierra 2500 and 3500 also vary from 250.1- and 266.1-inch wheelbase, respectively.
Due to this variation, it’s good to check out all the provided models to see which best suits your needs.
How Much Does the GMC Sierra Weigh?
The Sierra’s weight also varies, depending on the model and trim level you choose. The Sierra 1500 regular cab has a range of 7,600-9,900 lbs, the crew cab weighs 7,400-11,800 lbs, and the double cab has a range of 9,000-11,300 lbs. The Sierra 2500 double cab weighs 6,555 lbs., while the regular cab weighs 6,237 lbs. The crew cab weighs between 6,642 lbs and 6,741 lbs.
Sierra 3500 models have a gross weight of 11,150 lbs. but vary on the model and trim level. The weight is essential, as it will affect the overall performance of your vehicle. Ensure you know what weight you’ll be driving around before you check out any model.
How Many People Can the Cabin Seat?
The capacity of the truck depends on the length of the bed and what options you decide to get. The Sierra 1500 has an 8’4″ bed, with a capacity of up to six passengers for the double cab and three passengers for the regular cab. The Sierra 2500 carries up to six passengers. The 3500 can carry up to six passengers in the 7’6″ bed model.
If you plan on hauling lots of people around, be sure to check out all of the pickup options so that you can find one that will fit your needs. Also, if you don’t plan on having a lot of passengers, then you may be able to find a model that will suit you by checking out the interior options.
How Reliable Is It?
The Sierra is an American-built truck that is strong and dependable. Many things that make it reliable include heavy-duty suspension, six airbags, and robust engines. There are many things to be aware of when looking at a Sierra — fortunately, Meadowland GMC of Carmel, New York, covers all your needs by providing detailed information on the truck.
The model you pick will affect the reliability of your vehicle. The Sierra models will come with drivetrain components built to last for years without any issues. In addition, you’ll also find other features like electronic stability control, which ensures that the truck does not spin out when turning or braking suddenly. Combining high-quality parts will help make your vehicle reliable, ensuring it will not disappoint you.
Does It Hold Its Value Over Time?
Sierra is a popular pick if you are in the market for a new truck that will hold its value over time. The regular cabs, crew cabs, and double cabs have all stood the test of time. Your truck’s value will depend on how much you drive and how many miles you drive yearly. Always keep tabs on your vehicle’s maintenance to ensure it runs perfectly and stays in top condition.
The 2023 GMC Sierra has been going strong for quite some time, so it’s likely to retain value long after you buy it. The GMC Sierra is the right pick if you need a vehicle that can be both a workhorse and perfect for driving around town.
What About Mileage?
GMC is known for delivering outstanding performance and value in the vehicles they manufacture, so the fact that their Sierra has such excellent fuel economy is not surprising. The Sierra 1500 gets up to 15 mpg in the city and 20 on the highway when regular unleaded is used. The Sierra 2500 gets up to 19 city and 25 highway. All the diesel models get up to 18 in the city and 29 on the highway, but that can vary slightly depending on which model you choose.
The 3500 gets up to 19 mpg city and 29 mpg highway, but this can vary depending on the model you choose. The diesels get up to 20 in the city and 29 on the highway.
What About Safety Features?
GMC balances performance and utility with safety, so you can rest assured knowing that your Sierra is a safe vehicle. There are driver assistance systems like lane departure warning, forward collision alert, and hill start assist. The truck features numerous airbags, including the driver, front passenger, and side curtain airbags. The emergency braking system utilizes innovative technology, and the Sierra models also come with backup cameras for increased safety.
The GMC Sierra truck is an excellent truck with many features for the pickup market that have made it very popular among customers. It’s strong, reliable, and capable.
Looking for a pickup that can handle virtually any job you throw at it? The Sierra is a fantastic option to consider. You’ll find that the larger models are great for hauling heavy loads, while the smaller models can handle almost any light-duty task. It’s important to know what you need from your vehicle before you check out any models. With so many different ones to choose from, it can be easy to get lost in the details.
If you want some help choosing the right Sierra for your needs, ask an associate at Meadowland GMC. We have skilled and knowledgeable representatives who strive to assist all of our customers in finding what they are looking for and ensuring their purchase goes flawlessly.
Photo Credit: Images used with permission via GMC.com
Everyone likes to save money, especially on large purchases like buying a new car. It’s getting harder to haggle with dealers to get the price tag of a vehicle you’ve been eyeing down to something in your price range. Luckily, you can sometimes come across deals that can get you a discount on the vehicle you want. The GM Supplier Discount program can save qualifying buyers a lot of money. Let’s find out the GM Supplier Discount, who can use it, and how the program works.
Through the GM Supplier Discount, qualified participants can purchase or lease brand-new vehicles from dealerships offering a discount program for less than the sticker price. Participants must be from the United States. It’s important to read through the terms and conditions of the program to fully understand what you agree to by taking advantage of the discount. Using the GM Supplier Discount, you can save quite a bit off the MSRP of the vehicle you want to drive. It’s a deal worth pursuing if you qualify.
Of course, some restrictions come with the program that we’ll discuss later. But if you want to save more on a vehicle purchase, the GM Supplier Discount could be for you.
Do I Qualify for the GM Supplier Discount?
The GM Supplier Discount is available to eligible participants, which GM defines as:
Active employees of eligible GM supplier companies residing in the United States.
Active employees of eligible GM fleet and commercial companies residing in the United States.
Any salaried employee working full- or part-time in an eligible GM company can use the discount program to get a better deal on a new Chevrolet, GMC, or other outstanding GM vehicle. GM excludes contract employees from participating in the program, however.
GM does allow you to share your discount with one friend or family member each time you purchase a vehicle using the program. Remember that you only have one year from the date of your purchase to pass on your GM Supplier Discount, so help someone else take advantage of the extra savings sooner rather than later. They’ll appreciate it.
How Is the GM Supplier Discount Calculated?
Because the GM Supplier Discount is meant to make it easier for you, the consumer, to purchase a vehicle at a great price, it’s easy to understand. Here’s the formula for how the discount is calculated: Dealer invoice price with applicable options + destination charge + $200 program fee
To work out your GM Supplier Discount, plug in the numbers and make some easy additions. Once you’ve calculated the number from the equation above, you can subtract the MSRP from the total to find exactly what you’ll save through the GM Supplier Discount.
You can often save a thousand dollars or more, depending on the make and model of the vehicle. You can usually combine the discount with other offers, so check with the dealer to find out whether any other savings apply to your purchase. You may leave the deal with more left in your bank account than anticipated.
Whether leasing or buying, you can use the GM Supplier Discount once every six months. This means you can continue to drive the latest model or change up the car you regularly drive for less.
Which Cars Qualify for the GM Supplier Discount?
You might be wondering which cars qualify for the GM Supplier Discount. Don’t worry; almost every brand-new vehicle from Chevrolet, Buick, GMC, and Cadillac is eligible. There may be some exclusions, and GM can change the vehicles included in the GM Supplier Discount program at any time. You may even find previous model years on the eligibility list, often discounted already. With new year models on their way to dealerships soon, this could be the perfect time to treat yourself to the ride you deserve.
To give you an idea of some of the savings you can expect, here are some discounts you might see right now:
2022 GMC Yukon Denali: $3,710.
2022 GMC Sierra 1500: $3,712.
2022 XT5 Cadillac Luxury: $3,308.
2022 XT6 Cadillac Premium: $3,843.
2022 Chevrolet Blazer RS: $2,874
2022 Chevrolet Silverado 1500: $3,536.
2022 Buick Envision Avenir: $1,649.
With discounts like these, you can afford to drive a luxury vehicle. We can’t list all the savings for all the vehicles you could use the GM Supplier Discount to buy, but our team will gladly help you determine whether the vehicle you’re interested in is eligible. Then, we can guide you on how to get your authorization number to use the discount and the rest of the process of buying or leasing a new vehicle.
Additional Information About the GM Supplier Discount
You may want to know more about the GM Supplier Discount if you qualify to participate. Bear the following in mind:
You can use the discount to purchase two vehicles per year.
Not all GM dealers participate in the program, as it’s available to all, but voluntarily.
You can use the discount on a vehicle you order through the dealership.
There are no restrictions to apply for financing, so you can use any bank or lender you want.
GM can cancel or modify the program at any time and at its discretion.
If you have more questions about the GM Supplier Discount or want to determine whether you qualify, contact the team at Meadowland GMC. We’ll take the time to help you understand how the program works. You can find which qualifying vehicles we have in stock or preorder your 2023 model now and use the discount to your advantage.
Photo Credit: Image used with permission via GMC.com
