Mercedes-Benz of Flagstaff is embarking on an exciting new chapter, reinforcing its commitment to “The Best or Nothing” slogan. The dealership has officially broken ground on a cutting-edge facility designed to enhance the customer experience and meet the growing demand for luxury vehicles in Flagstaff and the surrounding areas. This new development signifies a major step forward for Mercedes-Benz in Northern Arizona, promising a more comprehensive and customer-focused approach to automotive retail and service.
For Mercedes-Benz of Flagstaff, the move to a larger, purpose-built location is driven by rapid growth and a desire to better serve its clientele. The current dealership on Switzer Canyon Drive has quickly become inadequate to provide the signature Mercedes-Benz experience. Owner Trampus Mansker highlighted this challenge, stating, “We haven’t been able to give customers the Mercedes-Benz concierge experience in our current location. We need more staff, but don’t have room for them. Once we get here, it will be a whole new day – a breath of fresh air.” This expansion directly addresses these limitations, paving the way for enhanced service offerings and a more comfortable environment for both customers and staff.
The groundbreaking ceremony, held in late July, was a significant event attended by approximately 40 people, including key figures from Mercedes-Benz of Flagstaff, city officials, and local business leaders. Principal owner Michael Martin expressed his enthusiasm at the gathering: “We want to bring the Mercedes-Benz brand to Flagstaff in the right way. Thanks for hanging in there with us. Trampus, myself and our team at Mercedes-Benz of Flagstaff are excited to get this facility done. I’m still pinching myself.” The event underscored the strong local support and anticipation for the new Mercedes-Benz dealership in Flagstaff.
Located in the Flagstaff Auto Park behind the Flagstaff Mall, at the southwest corner of Marketplace Drive and Test Drive, the new Mercedes-Benz of Flagstaff facility is strategically positioned for accessibility and convenience. This location is poised to become a premier automotive destination within Flagstaff. The construction project is being led by Loven Contracting of Flagstaff, with design expertise from a California architect specializing in auto dealerships. Significantly, approximately 80% of the subcontractors are local, emphasizing the dealership’s commitment to supporting the Flagstaff community. Local firms involved include The WLB Group for civil engineering, Dial Mechanical Company, and Ignace Brothers Drywall.
Michael Martin emphasized the strong local market for luxury vehicles, noting, “There is a strong market for luxury here. We want to keep people from having to make the long drive to Phoenix or Vegas.” Mercedes-Benz is globally recognized for its luxury, performance, and innovation. Greg Ring, General Sales Manager at Mercedes-Benz of Flagstaff, further elaborated on the brand’s appeal, particularly for business owners: “All Mercedes-Benz cars are good for business; they provide luxury and a good tax write-off. Just see Section 179 of the federal tax code. We’re the only automaker that provides a four-wheel drive van, and it carries more cargo than anyone in our class.” This highlights the practical and financial benefits of choosing Mercedes-Benz, in addition to the inherent luxury and driving experience.
Customer Julie Pastrick, CEO of the Greater Flagstaff Chamber of Commerce, who recently purchased a Mercedes-Benz GLE SUV 350, attended the groundbreaking, demonstrating customer enthusiasm for the brand in Flagstaff. She stated her decision was influenced by a desire for quality and reliability, saying, “I was tired of all the recalls on my previous vehicle [by another manufacturer], so I chose Mercedes-Benz.”
Sales Manager Jimmy Halbison pointed out the advantages of the new location within the Flagstaff Auto Park, commenting, “We get good traffic where we’re at on Switzer, with all the traffic going to the hospital. But this is the place to be.” The move to the Auto Park places Mercedes-Benz of Flagstaff within a concentrated area of automotive businesses, creating a synergistic environment for customers.
Mercedes-Benz of Flagstaff offers a comprehensive suite of automotive services, including new and used vehicle sales, expert service and maintenance, leasing options, genuine Mercedes-Benz parts, and financing solutions. The new state-of-the-art facility will enable the dealership to expand and enhance these services, providing an even more exceptional experience for Mercedes-Benz owners and enthusiasts in Flagstaff and Northern Arizona. The projected opening date for the new facility at 5171 N Test Drive, Flagstaff, AZ, is March 15, marking an exciting milestone for Mercedes-Benz in the region. For more information, visit mercedesofflagstaff.com or call 928-220-7440.
