Mazda and Volkswagen buyers know the Rohrich name stands for integrity

The Rohrich name is one of the most well-established and reputable dealership names in the Pittsburgh market. The family’s automotive business was founded by Charlie Rohrich some 80 years ago, who then passed his principles along to his son Jim, who in turn handed them on to his sons David and Tom. Today the Rohrich name—as well as its excellent reputation—is familiar to countless consumers who have purchased automobiles from one of the family’s many franchises, including two found in the multi-level dealership on busy West Liberty Avenue. The building is home to Rohrich Mazda/Volkswagen, with a vast indoor showroom where it’s always fair weather. In addition, there is a state-of-the-art service center, as well as a parts department and a 20,000-square-foot Collision Center. More than a body shop, the Collision Center is equipped with the most sophisticated equipment available. And, since Rohrich Automotive has more than $3 million in parts inventory, a large volume of original equipment parts and accessories is always on hand.

In total, a staff of 30 attends to the day-in, day-out needs of customers. The staff includes sales associates, factory-trained and certified service personnel, a number of specialists, and back office support people. All have a single mission in mind. As General Manager Mark Chockran said: “We want to make sure we are delivering a premium shopping experience to all of our customers whether they are purchasing, or leasing, a new or pre-owned Mazda or Volkswagen.”

In fact, at both Rohrich franchises pre-owned vehicles are more often referred to as “pre-loved.” In the case of both Volkswagen and Mazda, certified pre-owned vehicles must pass a rigorous inspection.

To accomplish its mission, Rohrich Mazda/Volkswagen adds a number of extra touches for the benefit of customers. These include conveniences such as a free shuttle service, and free wireless Internet available in the Customer Lounge. All customers need to do is bring along their wireless enabled laptop or PDA.

Of course, the success of any dealership also depends on the quality of its products. In this regard, Chockran said, both franchises have a great deal to offer.

“Zoom-Zoom” has been the steady mantra of Mazda, and it certainly applies to the Mazda3 sedan. It is the Japanese automaker’s top seller in the United States. It has, however, done itself proud in the rest of the world as well. The Mazda3 has rung up 1.8 million sales worldwide, and earned global accolades in the process. It has earned 90 major awards. The fact that one of every three Mazdas sold is a 3 testifies to the sedan’s popularity. A record like that means that Mazda has done a lot right with this quick, fun-to-drive compact, and it isn’t about to stop now.

“As a sedan or hatchback, the 2010 Mazda3 is new and redesigned,” explained Chockran. “You won’t find a more fully featured, high-quality, fuel-efficient vehicle with so much style and comfort at the same reasonable price points. And you won’t find better incentives.”

The 2010 Mazda3 offers three trim levels and four separate powertrain options. This same vehicle also received the highest possible rating for frontal crash performance from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.

Mazda has introduced changes in other models as well. The 2010 Mazda CX-7, a sporty crossover, not only has a new engine option but also a refined chassis that provides enhanced handling and ride quality. The 2010 Mazda CX-9, a mid-size crossover, has an interior and exterior facelift, more options, and additional safety features. Enhancements include new 20-inch and 18-inch wheel design, and larger aerodynamic side mirrors.

Not to be outdone, Volkswagen made automotive news by revisiting diesel-powered cars. The 2009 Jetta TDI, available as a sedan and wagon, has earned high marks for its clean and quiet diesel engine. Moreover, it was the first vehicle to meet California’s emission control standards, which are the most stringent in the world. It also achieves an estimated highway fuel economy of 41 mpg with sharply reduced greenhouse gas emissions.

“Close your eyes,” said Chockran, “and you wouldn’t know you’re in a diesel automobile. The Jetta TDI doesn’t create smoke, it doesn’t knock at idle, and there’s no noise.”

The Jetta TDI’s environmental performance so impressed “Green Car Journal” that the vehicle was named the 2009 Green Car of the Year—the first time a clean diesel model was ever awarded the “Green” title.

In making the announcement, the “Green Car Journal” noted that “The 2009 Jetta TDI breaks new ground in the field of clean diesels, achieving emissions certification in all 50 states without the use of special additives or extraordinary measures.”

The 2009 Jetta TDI wasn’t the only Volkswagen product to win worldwide recognition. A jury of 59 international automotive journalists honored the 2009 Volkswagen Golf as the 2009 World Car of the Year. But VW isn’t content to rest on its laurels. Instead, it chose to introduce to the U.S. market the newly designed 2010 Volkswagen Golf, in three- and five-door versions. The Golf, according to VW, is the world’s third best-selling model, and has been produced in several different configurations. It has sold 26 million units globally.

Volkswagen has a special legacy in the U.S., where its signature Beetle became something of an iconic automobile. The automaker has plans to launch a new generation of reconfigured Beetles in 2010, offering greater space and several different versions, including a hatchback, soft-top convertible and micro-van.

Along with the Volkswagen and Mazda names, the Rohrich name stands for quality. As Chochran said, “If a buyer is looking for an excellent deal on a quality automobile, at a dealership with an outstanding reputation, this is the place to come.”