A Century of Automotive Excellence. Built on Family, Driven by Purpose.

Four generations in the making

The Benedetti family’s journey in the automotive industry began in 1924, when Mario JT Benedetti’s grandparents founded Prosperi Cumaná, one of Venezuela’s pioneering automotive dealerships. That single dealership laid the foundation for four generations of automotive leadership, customer service, and entrepreneurial spirit.

Growing up in the family business, Mario J.T. Benedetti learned every aspect of the dealership firsthand. He began his career at Prósperi Cumaná on July 1, 1985, starting with washing cars and working in the service department before moving into vehicle sales and eventually leading dealership operations.Those early experiences shaped the leadership philosophy that continues to define South Dade Group today.

At the same time, Lucy Benedetti, a third-generation member of another automotive family, built her own career at Toyota Motors, where she embraced the operational excellence and customer-first principles that would later become central to the family’s business. Together, Mario and Lucy combined generations of experience, shared values, and a passion for serving customers.

Starting over in America

In 2009, the Benedetti family made the life-changing decision to leave Venezuela and begin a new chapter in the United States. Starting over wasn’t simply a business move—it was a leap of faith driven by resilience, determination, and a clear vision for the future.

They acquired South Dade Toyota in Homestead, Florida, and transformed it into one of Toyota’s highest-performing dealerships through a strong focus on customer satisfaction, operational excellence, and employee development.

A key part of that journey has been Boris Lopez, who began working alongside Mario JT Benedetti in Venezuela and continued growing with the organization in the United States. From his early career in information technology, Boris advanced through the company and now serves as General Manager and Chief Operating Officer, helping lead operations, develop teams, and support the continued growth of South Dade Group.

What began as one dealership has grown into a multi-location automotive group that includes South Dade Toyota, South Dade Kia of Miami, South Dade Kia of Homestead, Jesse’s Body Shop, and South Dade Rent A Car—all while remaining proudly family-owned.

More than a dealership group

Today, South Dade Group continues to grow under the leadership of Mario JT and Lucy Benedetti, supported by an experienced executive team and the involvement of the next generation.

Their children, Mario Enrique and María Gabriela Benedetti, are part of the family business, continuing a legacy that now spans four generations. Their involvement represents both the future of South Dade Group and the continuation of the values that have guided the family for more than a century.

At South Dade Group, success is measured not only by the vehicles we sell, but by the lives we impact. Our culture is built around people—our employees, our customers, and the communities we proudly serve.

Through Her Drive Her Voice, the group helps educate and empower women throughout their automotive journey. Through the South Dade Education Fund, it supports scholarships, educational programs, and opportunities for students across South Florida.

Together with local partnerships, charitable initiatives, and volunteer efforts, these programs reflect the group’s belief that strong businesses have a responsibility to strengthen the communities around them.

As South Dade Group looks toward the future, its commitment remains the same: to honor its family legacy, develop the next generation of leaders, create opportunities for others, and make a meaningful difference throughout South Florida.