Lithia Motors chief and his five fave cars


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THERE ARE PEOPLE who know cars and people who love cars.

 

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THERE ARE PEOPLE who know cars and people who love cars. Sid DeBoer, a car enthusiast, has the additional insight that comes from overseeing Lithia Motors, one of the country’s largest car and truck retailers. DeBoer’s father, Walt, began Lithia in 1946 in Ashland. Since taking the wheel as CEO in 1968, DeBoer expanded the Medford-based company to a $3.17 billion enterprise. If you’re in the market for a new car, here are DeBoer’s top-five favorites:

Toyota Prius “A green, efficient and practical car.” Four years since its U.S. introduction, the Prius continues to edge its way into the mainstream.

Dodge Ram 1500 Quad Cab 4×4 with Hemi engine “Tough and powerful.” Not only can this truck literally tow a ton or two, it also has room for six people.

BMW M-6 convertible “Fun, sun and a performance machine.” DeBoer also says it is fun to drive with a sequential manual gearbox, which allows quick gear changes without using a clutch.

Volkswagen Touareg “A tight, safe and luxurious SUV.” An electronic parking system uses sensors in the front and rear bumpers to help drivers squeeze into those tight parking spaces.

Chrysler minivan with stow seating “The ultimate convenience and flexible rig with luxury.” In-floor storage bins can hold cargo or the rear seats, opening up 161 cubic feet of storage.

COLLEEN MORAN

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