Why Principle Automotive Exists
Principle Automotive was founded on a simple mission: the automotive experience should feel welcoming, transparent and built around people. We recognized that car buying is often accompanied by uncertainty and frustration. And we believed there was a better way, one rooted in honesty, empathy and trust.Our mission guides every interaction, whether you're purchasing a vehicle, returning for car service or engaging with our team in the community.
1955
Charles Frederick Urschel Jr. and Jack E. Guenther lay the foundation for the family’s role in the automotive industry by being the first Volkswagen Distributer for the state of Texas and a few surrounding states
Late 1955
First Volkswagen dealership opens on Fredericksburg Road in San Antonio
1973
BMW Center in San Antonio opens
1983
Performance Toyota opens
1990
VOLVO Center opens
2002
MINI Center opens
2012–2013
Strategic planning for a new, associate-first, values-driven group under emerging third-generation leadership​
Early 2014
Third Generation transition: Abigail assumes operational leadership as Chief Executive Officer and the group operates:
- Principle BMW/MINI of San Antonio
- Principle Volvo Cars of San Antonio
- Principle Toyota in Memphis
Late 2014
Dealerships begin closing on Sundays to allow associates more work-life balance
2016
BMW of Corpus Christi is acquired and redeveloped into a new Principle BMW facility
2019
Acquisition of Volkswagen Irving that later becomes Volkswagen Grapevine
2021
Principle Hyundai Boerne opens in a temporary facility and outperforms expectations by 3x
2022
Principle Volkswagen Grapevine relocates with a new state-of-the-art dealership as a successor to the former Volkswagen Irving store.
2026
Principle Automotive grows from 250 to 550+ associates, with a multi-state, multi-brand presence and a deeply rooted associate-first culture
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