Posts by kiley:
My Next Chapter
April 15th, 2013After an epic “Farewell Capital” blog post created by none other than @therealbernando himself, I guess it seems to be tradition that the Capital Ford marketing staff writes a little “goodbye” piece.
I was recently faced with a tough decision and decided to leave Capital Ford to start a new chapter and follow my passion in Human Resources Management. After working at Capital Ford for almost 3 years I can honestly say this has been the most FUN job I have ever had, hands down.
Some of you may think “Really Kiley? It’s fun working at a car dealership with a bunch of dudes?” The answer is yes! It’s tons of fun and there is LOTS to learn. Here’s why:
My Job- It all started in 2010 when I was working at Capital part time while I was finishing my business degree at the University. After graduating, I was blessed to travel to the beautiful country of Thailand and I returned full time at Capital Ford to start my career as Internet Marketing Manager.
I can honestly say that I have learned so much at Capital Ford and will take a lot away from the job. The job consists of a lot of hard work- marketing plans, strategy, advertising, budget, content creation, website updating, social media, Google Analytics… and the list goes on. Did I mention I got to shoot a ton of wicked youtube videos? Mission 2000 is my all time favourite. I’m practically the next you tube sensation… no big deal.
My Managers- I couldn’t of asked for a better manager at Capital Ford other than Mitch Gallant. 
Seriously, this guy is so passionate and fired up about his job and he really wants you to learn as much as possible. The amount of knowledge in automotive online marketing this guy has is mind blowing. You will learn a lot from him. Not to mention if he likes you he may bring you coffee or banana bread from Roca House once in a while! The man of the building, Cam Bottrell (or 8 ball is what I like to call him) is equally as great of a manager. Although he’s starting to get some grey hair and is getting a bit old, he’s still pretty hip. What kind of manager lets you call them “bro” or “homie”? None other than Botts.
My Co-workers- As cliché as it sounds “it’s all about the people” it truly is. A huge shout out goes to my marketing team and the BDC, they make it easy to come to work every day! But these people are more than just co-workers, they are now people I can call my friends. Who wouldn’t want to work at a place with all their friends?!
There are so many things I am going to miss such as the daily lunch dates with my two partners in crime Churko and Brent and the frozen yogurt runs with my office mate,Dan. Not to mention laughing till my face hurts from Judge’s random and ridiculous comments. I don’t think I’ve met anyone who can make me laugh like that. And of course, my two girls Destiny and Victoria. These two are always entertaining, especially their conversations about what the capital of Canada is, or different breeds of cats. I’ll just leave it there… 
Fridays- Fridays are my all time favourite day of the week at Capital. In addition to the marketing office hosting “90′s Dance Party Friday’s”, the intelligent and ridiculously good looking Jeph (or is it Jeff?) Maystruck comes in and gives us awesome marketing presentations. He even hands out chocolate and lottery tickets for participation so you best pay attention! The entire marketing staff and BDC attend these presentations so it’s always nothing short of a good time. Jeph even lets us give presentations too, although he may have regretted that decision after Judge and I included this photo in our presentation. It’s a one of a kind Maystruck hound!
I’ve learned a lot about myself from working at Capital. I learned that I can have a mustache like all the boys in Movember, positivity and a good attitude really make every day enjoyable, scaring people in the office and getting it on camera is not a joke, it’s a skill and that Capital Ford is a FUN place to work. We work hard, but play harder.
I am going to miss Capital Ford so much, but THANK YOU to everyone who has made my time here as awesome as it’s been!!!
Cheers!
What is Capital Cares?
March 25th, 2013Capital Cares is a volunteer and sponsorship committee that is focused on supporting our community and improving our workplace. It is comprised of employees from the entire Capital Automotive Group including Capital Ford Lincoln, Capital GMC, Universal Collision, Thrifty Car Rental, Capital Kia and McKenzie Sales & Leasing.
Capital Cares is proud to be involved in so many initiatives across Canada to help make a difference. Our goal is to create unity among the Capital Auto Group to engage our employees while supporting the community.
Let our co-chairs Kiley and Nicole explain a little bit more about Capital Cares in this short video message.
Anyone Else Interested In Lincoln Technology?!
March 6th, 2013Whether you are shopping for a vehicle — or just interested in what kind of technological advancements Lincoln is introducing — this is a great place to start. Lincoln is known for luxury and quality engineering and is commonly compared with other luxury manufacturers like Cadillac and Buick. However before I get carried away with comparisons, here is a great overview of what Lincoln is offering to the public:
1: Smarter Performance:
2. Thoughtful Design:
3. Audio & Connectivity
4. Assured Driving
Judge Review: 2013 Ford Escape
February 28th, 2013I didn’t want to like the new 13 Escape. It was different, it didn’t offer a V6, and no longer maintained it’s rugged outward appearance. I had really enjoyed working with the previous model and it’s work hard attitude, but change was on the horizon for the little SUV that could, whether I liked it or not.
Enter the 2013 Ford Escape. Redesigning the best selling North American SUV was no small task for Ford. There is a wide range of emission, safety, and quality expectations in the regions where the Escape will be sold. This led to a no nonsense design approach, and it doesn’t take long to notice the benefits.
The model I drove for this review was a 2013 Ford Escape Titanium in Tuxedo Black paint. Even though it was the middle of a Saskatchewan winter (see:cold and gloomy) the finish of the black very brilliant, and nice to see over the flat black on the previous model.
There are a total of 3 power trains available for the Escape, and I was driving the 2.0L Ecoboost; the other options are a 2.5L Naturally Aspirated engine and a 1.6L Ecoboost, all engines being 4 cylinders. There is no longer a manual transmission on the options list, a 6-sp auto being the sole choice of gears for the Escape. Which is perfectly fine with me, shifts were timely and smooth, and made for easy driving.
The Passive Entry System (standard on Titanium models) was previously only available on the Escape’s Bigger Brothers, but has since made it into the Escape, and has even been improved. The hands free liftgate requires a slight kicking motion underneath the rear bumper to open the hatch. Even though it’s a simple concept, the execution is great and it is a truly useful option.
Once I have my cargo all loaded up, it’s time to take a seat in the totally redesigned cabin. The first thing I notice is the upright-seating position. Visibility is extremely good, and it’s easy to see the front corners of the vehicle, and the available BLIS system helps to fill in any blanks in the relatively small blind spots that come with any SUV.
After using the push button start, we breathe life into the 2.0L Ecoboost and take it out on the road. It was a cold and overcast day when we put the Escape through it’s paces, but that couldn’t put a damper on the Escape. It eagerly took to the highway, as the 240HP & 270lb/tq was plenty to get us comfortably up to cruising speeds.
Any concerns I had about the new escape not living up to the previous model were quickly erased, as the combination of the new intelligent AWD, EPAS, and totally reworked suspension, made for a confidence inspiring drive, even on the frozen Ring Road in Regina.
When it was time to park downtown, the Escape kept on proving it was a worthy successor. Active park assist was a breeze to use, with simple and clear instructions being displayed on the 8” MyFord Touch display. The back up camera has been previously available on the Escape, but new will be the ability to project where the escapes final resting spot will be, ensuring a perfect job every time.
When making my way back with the 2013 Titanium, the voice activated Navigation couldn’t have been easier to use. You can follow along on screen with the available options, and the voice recognition is good. I know that ALL voice activated systems can be a point of contention for some folks, all I can say about the system is that if worked fine for me, consistently.
The Sony Sound System is a welcome upgrade over previous models as well, with a 10 speakers and 390 watts of power capable of playing AM/FM/USB/Bluetooth/Sat Radio or really any other possible media, sans cassette deck.
It would be easy to keep droning about the virtues of the Escape, but it really does need to be driven to get a true sense of what makes it so pleasing to be in. Every feature has been well thought out and implemented. Great fit and finish all around leads one to think Ford has nothing to worry about in the compact SUV market, and the title of Best Selling SUV can’t be far away…. again.
Why Has Ford Been Named One Of The Most Innovative Companies of 2013?!
February 26th, 2013It’s great to hear that Ford Motor Co. is the only full-line automaker recognized in Fast Company’s ‘Most Innovative Companies’ 2013 ranking… BUT WHATS DOES THIS MEAN? … who is Fast Company, how are they measuring innovation and what is setting Ford above the rest of the auto-industry and putting us on the same innovative playing field as companies like Amazon, Nike, Apple and Google?
First things first, Fast Company is recognized as a leading progressive media brand — basically an editorial – which prides its editorial focus on innovation in technology, ethical economics, leadership and design. To simplify, Fast Company produces an annual guide highlighting businesses whose innovations are impacting industry and culture as a whole. In turn, Fast Company commends and inspires businesses to think outside the box when creating the future of business.
What innovations is Ford being recognized for?!
1. Ford SYNC® – it’s the hand free technology of Bluetooth – allowing drivers to keep their hands on the wheel and eyes on the road while using voice commands to operate their cell phones as well as other applications like navigation.
2. Driver Assist – includes both adaptive cruise control and a lane keeping system to help drivers keep a safe distance between vehicles.
3. Hands-Free Liftgate – a new feature of the 2013 Escape, sensors detect a combination of leg motion behind the bumper and the presence of your nearby key fob – so when your hands are full you dont have to worry about who is going to get the door.
4. Active Park Assist – the push of a button activates ultrasonic sensors which identify a parking space and secondly take control of the wheel to parallel park the vehicle for you hands-free.
5. EcoBoost – it’s all about fuel efficiency without having to sacrifice performance. EcoBoost technology improves fuel economy by up to 20 percent and reduces CO2 emissions by up to 15 percent.
6. Sustainable Materials Strategy – Recycled materials are being used to make everything from carpets to replacement bumpers while renewable materials are being favored for parts throughout.
2013 Best Cars For Their Money
February 25th, 2013
There’s always a constant battle between finding the car you’ve always wanted while still meeting your budget. The 2013 Best Cars for Their Money Award show unveiled the top 21 vehicles with Ford vehicles receiving six of these awards.
The awards combine the average price paid and five-year total cost of ownership data from TrueCar.com with the U.S. News Best Car rankings data. The criteria is ranked on the vehicle’s performance, interior features and comfort, as well as reliability from J.D. Power and Associates and safety data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.
The vehicle are broken down into three categories (1) Best Cars (2) Best SUVS ad Minivans and (3) Best Trucks.
The 2013 Ford Focus won the Top Compact Car for its innovative technology and fuel efficient engine getting 36 miles per gallon on the highway.
- 2013 Ford Fusion was awarded with the Best Midsize Car and has been a favourite in the automotive industry for many years now. It has received numerous positive reviews and has a low five-year total ownership cost.
- With its strong base engine, large trunk and impressive cabin technology the 2013 Ford Taurus takes the cake on the Best Large Car award four consecutive years in a row!
- Fuel economy helps drivers save money, and let’s face it.. who doesn’t love to save money? The 2013 Ford Fusion Hybrid received the Best Hybrid Car because drivers love that it drives like a gas-only car while getting the fuel economy of a hybrid.
- The redesign of the 2013 Ford Escape impresses car reviewers with its engaging technology and performance which is why it received the Best Compact SUV award.
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The Best 2-Row Midsize SUV goes to the 2013 Ford Edge for the second year in a row
. It’s sporty exterior and great fuel economy make it the top contender in this category.
2013 Ford and Lincoln Dealer of the Year
February 22nd, 2013Well, we did it again!
Capital Ford was awarded with the 2013 Canadian Ford Dealer of the Year and 2013 Canadian Lincoln Dealer of the Year!
Capital Ford is committed to providing our customers with excellent service and giving you the attention you deserve. All of our sales staff are paid on a non-commission basis so that you can feel confident that we have your best interest. Our staff are friendly and knowledgeable and our goal is to help you find the perfect vehicle that fits your lifestyle and needs.
If your vehicle ever requires repairs, feel at ease with our hardworking and dedicated service department. All of our technicians are fully trained and certified to ensure your vehicle is in in great condition. Not only do we service Ford vehicles, but we service all makes and models.
Capital Ford is the only Lincoln dealer in Regina offering luxury and class to drivers. The exquisite Lincoln line up provides drivers with the latest technology, comfort and style.
We would like to extend a huge thank you to our customers for helping us achieve the 2013 Canadian Ford and Lincoln Dealer of the year on Dealer Rater! None of this could be possible without you!
Check out all of our Dealer Rater reviews HERE.
Welcome to the Internet Team, Judge!
February 19th, 2013After spending two and a half years on the sales floor, Judge decided to join the force where all the behind the scenes magic happens. He recently accepted the mission of becoming Capital Ford’s Online Product Specialist!
What does an online product specialist do? Well, simply put, Judge is an information warehouse and vehicle genius! His role is to update all the vehicles on our webiste with customized comments, videos and features. Need to know if a vehicle has leather seats? How about a sun roof? Or even specifics about an engine? Just ask Judge.. he’ll know the answer if it’s not already on our website! Each vehicle is also accompanied with a video so you can visualize what it would be like to see this vehicle in person.
When Judge isn’t hard at work he runs a promotion company called Square 1 Entertainment and is the lead promotor. Judge is also passionate about DJing and mixes on podcasts and in local bars in Regina. His all time favourite vehicle is the 1962 Lincoln Continential hard top.
Have any questions for Judge or want to see something on the website? Give him a shout at (306) 543-5410 or shoot him an e-mail at judge@capitalfordlincoln.ca
Welcome once again to the team, Judge!
Capital Ford’s 2012 Sales Awards
February 16th, 2013At Capital Ford, our staff works exceptionally hard, and we know it. We also like to celebrate it. That’s why on January 15th, 2013 we held it’s annual awards dinner to honour our top sales teams and product specialists. In 2012, Capital Ford sold over 1500 new vehicles alone and our top sales staff are a big part of that. Here’s who took home the top awards this year!
Sales Team of the Year: Team Usher
For the sixth year in a row the sales team lead by Manager Rob Usher tops the dealership with 638 new and used vehicles sold in 2012.
Rob credits his team’s success to the growth of the Ford brand over the last five years, and his sales team’s strong product knowledge and ability to gain the respect and trust of their customers. Rob and his team would like to thank all their customers in 2012 for their business and their past customers for their continued support and referrals.
Top Voice of the Customer (Customer Satisfaction) Award: Jon Barabash
Jon won our customer service award this year and it’s easy to see why. Jon is one of the most down-to-earth people you’ll meet and he always has a smile on his face!
Jon thinks his top qualities are that he is personable and kind. Traits that obviously translates to everyone he deals with. Jon’s focus on exceptional customer service has led into an incredible response in customer satisfaction, and the VOC award this year. Jon believes that customer service is seriously lacking in the world today and he just wants to do it better. Given he’s taken home this award, he obviously does.
Top Used Vehicle Sales: Kurtis McGonigal
After numerous salesman of the month awards since starting with Capital Ford in 2009, Kurtis capped off an impressive 2012 with the Top Used Sales award.
Kurtis feels he offers a personalized car buying experience and strives to make each one as easy and stress-free as possible. Kurtis brings a strong product knowledge and upbeat, considerate attitude to every sale he makes.
Top New Vehicle Sales: Ryan Brecht
Ryan was given this award for the first time since he started with the dealership. He sold 105 new vehicles this year.
His favourite part of selling new vehicles is that he gets to show his customers all the innovative technologies in their new Ford and he prides himself in taking the extra time to make sure his customers are comfortable and happy with everything about their exciting new vehicle.
Top Overall Sales Performer: Ryan Brecht
Coming off a banner year here at Capital Ford selling 183 vehicles and having won the Top New Vehicle Sales Award, Ryan was also honoured with the Top Sales Performer of 2012. But Ryan had an exceptional year all around. Ryan won our Triple Crown award which means he had the best combined results overall in new and used vehicle sales and our voice of the customer category. This year Ryan also qualified for Summit, a Ford Canada conference for the product specialists that sell in the 10% in our distinct. He also placed within the top 5 in Canada in the 2013 Ford Escape Walk Around Contest, in which he put together a video explaining the new features of Ford’s innovative revamped SUV.
Ryan credits his success to hard work, ongoing dedication to a good customer experience, a motivation to succeed, and an easy-going attitude that makes the buying process comfortable.
Congratulations to our top product specialists for 2012 and here’s to an equally strong 2013. If you’d like to speak one of our top specialists for 2013, or any of our other friendly, knowledgeable staff give us a call at 543-5410.
2013 Ford Escape- Active Park Assist
February 4th, 2013Parallel parking can be stressful and many people refuse to do it. Are you constantly hitting the curb or not turning the wheel far enough?! It can be frustrating, but not anymore with the 2013 Ford Escape Active Park Assist feature.
The Active Park Assist feature uses ultrasonic based sensing system and electric power-assisted steering (EPAS) to steer the vehicle into a parking spot. The system is activated by pressing a button in the instrument panel and the driver is prompted to accept the parallel park assist. Once the driver accepts, the wheel takes control, however the driver still shifts the transmission and operates the brakes. A visual and/or audible interface advises the driver about the proximity of other cars and objects. Although the system operates safely, the driver may interrupt this feature simply by grasping the steering wheel.
Here is Judge testing out the Active Park Assist in beautiful downtown Regina!
