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Another piece of the 2017 Chevrolet Cruze Diesel puzzle has been revealed. The official EPA numbers have been released and they are quite impressive. 

Six-Speed Manual: 30 City/52 Highway/37 Combined
Nine-Speed Automatic: 31 City/47 Highway/37 Combined

“Chevrolet is dedicated to offering customers a wide range of propulsion options. We know there are customers looking for the right combination of fuel efficiency, driving dynamics, fuel type and more. With the EPA-estimated 52-mpg highway Cruze Diesel Sedan, they can get it all,” said Steven Majoros, director of Chevrolet Marketing in a statement.

A quick refresher on the Cruze Diesel: it will use a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder producing 137 horsepower and 240 pound-feet of torque. The sedan will be arriving in the coming weeks with prices beginning at $24,670. The hatchback will get the diesel option next year.

Source: Chevrolet
Press Release is on Page 2

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CRUZE DIESEL SEDAN SETS 52-MPG BENCHMARK

• EPA Certifies Segment-Best Highway Mileage

DETROIT — The 2017 Cruze Diesel Sedan offers up to an EPA-estimated highway mileage of 52 mpg — the highest highway fuel economy of any non-hybrid/non-EV in America. Based upon the EPA highway estimate, Cruze Diesel with the six-speed manual transmission has an estimated range of up to 702 highway miles on one tank of diesel fuel.

“Chevrolet is dedicated to offering customers a wide range of propulsion options. We know there are customers looking for the right combination of fuel efficiency, driving dynamics, fuel type and more. With the EPA-estimated 52-mpg highway Cruze Diesel Sedan, they can get it all,” said Steven Majoros, director of Chevrolet Marketing.

The 2017 Cruze Diesel Sedan features a new Ecotec 1.6-liter inline four-cylinder turbo-diesel engine offering an SAE-certified 137 horsepower (102 kW) and 240 lb-ft of torque (325 Nm). Cruze Diesel passed all stringent U.S. environmental standards and validation, including Tier 3 Bin 125 emissions standards.

Buyers will be able to option their Cruze Diesel Sedans with either a standard six-speed manual or a new, optional Hydra-Matic nine-speed automatic transmission that includes fuel-saving stop/start technology.

In addition to its segment-leading EPA-estimated 52 mpg highway fuel economy, Cruze Diesel with the six-speed manual returns an EPA-estimated city mileage of 30 mpg, resulting in 37 mpg combined. Cruze Diesel with the nine-speed automatic achieves an EPA-estimated highway economy of up to 47 mpg and 31 city mpg, which results in 37 mpg combined.

A suite of connectivity features complements the Cruze Diesel Sedan’s inherent efficiency. These include available OnStar with 4G LTE connectivity and built-in Wi-Fi hotspot and available Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility through Chevrolet MyLink.*

Pricing for 2017 Cruze Diesel Sedan starts at $24,670 including $875 destination charge. Cruze Diesel Hatch will follow Cruze Diesel Sedan later this year for the 2018 model year.

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It is a good time if you happen to be interested in off-road pickups. The Ford F-150 Raptor, Ram Power Wagon, and Toyota's TRD Pro lineup offer their unique take. Soon, the 2018 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 will have its own take for your consideration.

Today, Chevrolet revealed the base price of the Colorado ZR2 which begins at $40,995 (includes a $940 destination charge). That will net you the extended cab model with the 3.6L V6. Chevrolet isn't talking pricing for the crew cab or the option of the 2.8L Duramax Turbodiesel. This price undercuts the base Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro by $705.

The list of standard equipment is quite extensive with front and rear locking electronic diffs, DSSV dampers, a 2-inch suspension lift, new bumpers, spray-in bedliner, 31-inch Goodyear Wrangler Duratrac tires, aluminum skid plate, six-speaker audio system, 8-inch touchscreen with Chevrolet MyLink, and wireless phone charging.

Source: Chevrolet
Press Release is on Page 2

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CHEVROLET ANNOUNCES 2017 COLORADO ZR2 PRICING STARTING AT $40,995

• Chevy’s all-new off-road performance truck will be priced more competitively and have better standard equipment than the nearest comparable vehicles

DETROIT — After revitalizing an entire truck market segment with the launch of the Chevy Colorado, Chevrolet continues to innovate in the midsize pickup segment. The high-performance, off-road ZR2 trim level will launch this spring for the 2017 model year with a starting price of $40,995 MSRP including a $940 destination fee.

“ZR2 is truly a segment of one and does everything well — from traversing heavy two-track trails to high-speed desert running and full-on rock crawling. We’re thrilled to be able to offer it for more than $2,500 less than the next closest comparable vehicles. Taken in the context of serious off-roading, $2,000 will buy you 50 years of annual passes to Arches National Park in Moab, Utah,” said Sandor Piszar, Chevrolet Trucks marketing director.

“Some vehicles that customers might cross-shop with ZR2 can spec out as much as $26,000 more than our truck — or the price of a well-equipped 2017 Colorado. When you buy a ZR2 at the starting price of $40,995, you are getting all of the significant off-road technologies standard with the vehicle, as well as an eight-speed automatic transmission and a wealth of other features at no additional cost.”

Available options on the 2017 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 will include:

• Class-exclusive 2.8L Duramax Turbo-Diesel engine, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, capable of 186 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque
• Choice of crew- or extended cab configurations (including short and long beds, respectively)
• 7-speaker Bose premium audio system
• Dealer-installed, bed-mounted spare tire carrier
• Full-length black vinyl floor (no additional cost — standard interior features leather seats and carpet)

The ZR2’s starting MSRP includes a number of key standard features unique to the trim level, such as:

• Class-exclusive front and rear locking electronic differentials
• Revolutionary, segment-exclusive Multimatic Dynamic Suspensions Spool Valve (DSSVTM) dampers
• Off-road rocker protection
• Modified front and rear bumpers for better off-road obstacle clearance
• Exclusive ZR2 17 x 8-inch aluminum alloy wheels
• 31-inch Goodyear Wrangler Duratrac off-road tires
• New cast-iron control arms
• An aluminum skidplate that protects the radiator and engine oil pan
• Autotrac transfer case
• Transfer case shield
• Aggressive grille and hood combo unique to ZR2
• Modified rear axle with a 3.42 ratio
• Front and rear tracks widened 3.5 inches over a standard Colorado
• Suspension lifted 2 inches over a standard Colorado
• Off-Road Mode Technology
• 4-wheel disc brakes

Other standard features include:

• Tow/haul mode
• Trailering Package, including trailer hitch and 7-pin connector
• Integrated trailer brake controller
• Spray-on bedliner
• Heated driver and passenger front seats
• Wireless phone charging
• Rear sliding window
• EZ Lift and Lower tailgate
• Locking tailgate
• Recovery hooks
• A six-speaker audio system with Chevrolet MyLink Radio with Navigation and an 8-inch diagonal color touchscreen, AM/FM stereo with seek-and-scan and a digital clock, Bluetooth streaming audio for music and select phones, voice-activated technology for radio and phone featuring Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capability as well as an auxiliary jack
• All-terrain spare tire with unique ZR2 wheel
• Four USB ports: one on the instrument panel, one in the center console and two in the rear of the center console
• Electronic automatic cruise control
• Rear window electric defogger
• OnStar 4G LTE with built-in Wi-Fi
• Rear Vision Camera
• Remote keyless entry
• Remote vehicle starter system
• 4-way power front driver and passenger seat adjuster with power driver lumbar control
• Rear seats with underseat storage

Standard powertrain is the 3.6L DI DOHC V6 with a class-leading 308 horsepower and 275 lb-ft of torque that is shared with other Colorado models.

The ZR2 is available only as a four-wheel-drive vehicle.

The 2017 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 goes on sale this spring.

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Ahead of its spring launch, Chevrolet has revealed the starting price for the 2018 Equinox. The base L front-wheel drive model will kick off at $24,475 (includes destination). This model will feature a turbocharged 1.5L four-cylinder with 170 horsepower and 203 pound-feet of torque.

Those looking for more power or fuel economy will need to wait until the second quarter when the turbo 2.0L and turbodiesel 1.6L four-cylinders go on sale. Front-wheel and all-wheel will be on offer. As for trims, the Equinox will be offered in L, LS, LT, and Premier. 

“In a word, crossover customers want one thing: everything. From comfort and connectivity to efficient performance and safety, the all-new 2018 Chevrolet Equinox delivers on all counts,” said Steve Majoros, director of marketing for Chevrolet Cars and Crossovers.

We'll likely have more details on pricing and features as we get closer to the Equinox's launch.

Source: Chevrolet
Press Release is on Page 2

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NEXT-GEN 2018 CHEVROLET EQUINOX STARTS AT $24,475

• Crossover offers customers the perfect blend of design, technology and value

DETROIT — Chevrolet announced today that pricing for the next-generation 2018 Equinox will start at $24,475 when it goes on sale this spring. The manufacturer’s suggested retail price includes the destination charge but excludes tax, title and additional dealer fees.

Equinox offers a fresh, new design and technologies to help keep passengers comfortable and connected on the road.

“In a word, crossover customers want one thing: everything. From comfort and connectivity to efficient performance and safety, the all-new 2018 Chevrolet Equinox delivers on all counts,” said Steve Majoros, director of marketing, Chevrolet Cars and Crossovers.

The 2018 Equinox will offer three turbocharged engines — including the segment’s first turbo-diesel — providing customers more choices when it comes to performance, efficiency and capability.

The standard 1.5L engine will be available at launch, with the 2.0L Turbo and diesel options available in the second quarter of 2017. The 2.0L engine will be coupled to GM’s new nine-speed automatic transmission, offering an exciting driving experience with more horsepower and torque.

The 2018 Equinox will be available in L, LS, LT and Premier trim levels, in FWD or AWD combinations.

Chevrolet’s connectivity technologies include a standard 7- and an available 8-inch-diagonal color touchscreen with MyLink infotainment designed to support Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as an available OnStar 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot.*

The new Equinox offers an expanded range of active safety features:

• New Safety Alert Seat
• New Surround Vision
• New Forward Collision Alert with Following Distance Indicator
• New Low-Speed Forward Automatic Braking
• New Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning
• Lane Change Alert with Side Blind Zone Alert  
• Rear Cross Traffic Alert

Rear Seat Reminder and Teen Driver are also offered. Rear Seat Reminder can provide an alert when the rear doors are used during or just before a trip, prompting you to double-check for valuables left in the back seat when you exit the vehicle. Teen Driver allows parents to monitor driving habits and facilitates discussions to help encourage better driving habits, even when parents are not in the vehicle. 

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General Motors will begin importing the Colorado and Silverado pickups into China next year, but you'll only be able to buy them in select markets.

Automotive News explains that many Chinese cities have bans on pickups for the fear of aggravating air pollution and causing more traffic issues. But earlier this year, the Chinese Government lifted the ban in four provinces - Henan, Hebei, Liaoning, and Yunnan - in an effort to jumpstart sales of domestic pickups. GM sees an opportunity with this and wants to explore it. But there is a major downside to this. Since GM will be importing the trucks, they'll be hit with 25 percent tariff by the Chinese Government.

Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required), Chevrolet
Press Release is on Page 2

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Chevrolet to Offer Iconic Silverado, Colorado Trucks for Chinese Consumers

• Brand’s best-selling nameplate and its midsize sibling to go on sale in 2017

GUANGZHOU – Chevrolet announced this evening at an event in Guangzhou that it will make available two classic American trucks – the Silverado and Colorado – in China through parallel import in 2017.

The Silverado is the best-selling Chevrolet truck in the world. Since its launch in 1987, three generations have been introduced, with cumulative sales of more than 17 million units.

Powered by an EcoTec3 6.2L V-8 engine mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission, the Silverado delivers peak torque of 624 Nm. It is also equipped with a wide range of smart technologies such as Active Noise Cancellation (ANC), Hill Descent Control (HDC) and Hill Start Assist (HSA), as well as power seats and a Bose® audio system. With its wheelbase of 3,645 mm and length of 5,843 mm, it can handle the toughest jobs expected of a pickup.

The Colorado was the industry’s hottest-selling product in the U.S. market. It was named the 2015 and 2016 Motor Trend Truck of the Year.

The midsize pickup offers a combination of refinement, maneuverability and efficiency. Powered by a 3.6L EcoTec V-6 engine, it delivers peak torque of 365 Nm and has a towing capability of 3.1 tons.

Chevrolet has long been famous for offering the most durable trucks on the market, which embody the charm of freedom while providing an off-road capability. 

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Madness! That was our first thought when we saw the Chevrolet Colorado ZH2 - the result of a joint venture of General Motors and the U.S. Army Tank Automotive Research, Development and Engineering Center (TARDEC). 

Even though it might be called a Colorado, it is unlike anyone you'll find at your nearest Chevrolet dealership. The model is 6.5-feet tall and over 7-feet wide. To accodimate for the larger size, Chevrolet used a lengthened and reinforced version of the Colorado's chassis. A set of 37-inch tires and specially modified suspension help the ZH2 go though any terrain that the Army will throw its way. That's because the ZH2 will be undergoing a number of field tests to determine the viability of hydrogen-powered vehicles on military missions. Yep, the Colorado ZH2 is a hydrogen fuel cell vehicle.

General Motors doesn't provide many details on the fuel cell's powertrain except that it will feature a Exportable Power Take-Off (EPTO) unit. The truck can generate electrcity for the unit which then can be taken away to provide power for various devices.

“The Colorado ZH2 is a terrific example of GM’s engineering and design skill in creating an off-road vehicle relevant to a range of potential users. Over the next year, we expect to learn from the Army the limits of what a fuel cell propulsion system can do when really put to the test,” said Charlie Freese, executive director of GM Global Fuel Cell Activities.

Source: General Motors
Press Release is on Page 2

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Mission-Ready Chevrolet Colorado ZH2 Fuel Cell Vehicle Breaks Cover at U.S. Army Show

• Modified midsize pickup goes into extreme military field testing in 2017

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The physically imposing Chevrolet Colorado ZH2, the most extreme off-road-capable fuel-cell-powered electric vehicle ever from General Motors, was revealed today at the fall meeting of the Association of the United States Army (AUSA).

Standing more than 6½ feet tall and more than seven feet wide, the Colorado ZH2 was built on a stretched midsize pickup chassis. Reinforced inside and out, the ZH2 rides on 37-inch tires and a specially modified suspension that helps the vehicle climb over and descend all manner of terrain.

The U.S. Army will test the Colorado ZH2 in extreme field conditions next year to determine the viability of hydrogen-powered vehicles on military missions.

The Colorado ZH2 features an Exportable Power Take-Off unit (EPTO) that allows the fuel cell to power activity away from the vehicle, such as remote locations where electric power may otherwise be unavailable.

GM and the U.S. Army Tank Automotive Research, Development and Engineering Center (TARDEC) collaborated to develop the Colorado ZH2 from contract to concept in less than a year.

GM is leveraging a range of advanced technologies for multiple applications, including military.

“The speed with which innovative ideas can be demonstrated and assessed is why relationships with industry are so important to the Army,” said Paul Rogers, director of TARDEC. “Fuel cells have the potential to expand the capabilities of Army vehicles significantly through quiet operation, exportable power and solid torque performance, all advances that drove us to investigate this technology further.”

The Army will evaluate the ZH2 fuel cell for:

• Near-silent operation enabling silent watch capability
• Reduced acoustic and thermal signatures
• High wheel torque at all speeds via electric drive
• Low fuel consumption across operating range
• Water by-product for field uses

GM and TARDEC have fuel cell development laboratories located 20 miles apart in southeast Michigan. Most of the Colorado ZH2 was assembled in GM’s Advanced Vehicle Integration facility in Warren. Calibration testing at GM’s Milford Proving Ground will continue into early 2017, when the vehicle will be turned over to the Army for a year of field testing.

“The Colorado ZH2 is a terrific example of GM’s engineering and design skill in creating an off-road vehicle relevant to a range of potential users,” said Charlie Freese, executive director of GM Global Fuel Cell Activities. “Over the next year, we expect to learn from the Army the limits of what a fuel cell propulsion system can do when really put to the test.”

The Colorado ZH2 contract is GM’s second vehicle development with a U.S military branch announced this year. In June, the U.S. Navy unveiled a GM fuel cell-powered Unmanned Undersea Vehicle (UUV) that is currently in pool testing before eventual deployment. The UUV leverages GM fuel cell technology common with the Colorado ZH2, demonstrating the flexibility to power a range of mobile and stationary devices.

GM has accumulated 3.1 million miles of hydrogen fuel cell testing via Project Driveway, a 119-vehicle fleet driven by more than 5,000 people in a multi-year fuel cell experience program.

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We weren't expecting this, but Chevrolet has revealed the all-new 2018 Equinox tonight in Chicago. 

The exterior borrows heavily from the Cruze and Malibu designs. Up front is a revised grille (similar to the one seen on the Cruze) with new headlights and LED daytime running lights. Around the side is a character line that swoops down and 'Equinox' name on the front doors. The back features a restyled tailgate, blacked-out pillars to give the impression of wrap-around glass, and horizontal taillights. The interior matches up with newer Chevrolet models with a floating screen (either seven or eight-inches) and either cloth or leather covering bits of the dash. One key item Chevrolet is quick to point is the dashboard is lower to provide better visibility.

There will be three turbocharged four-cylinders on offer; a 1.5L, 2.0L, and a 1.6L diesel. The 2.0L turbo will come paired with GM's new nine-speed automatic. We're guessing the 1.5 and 1.6 will get a six-speed automatic. Front-wheel drive will come standard and an all-wheel drive system with a disconnecting rear axle when not in use will be optional. One item we're glad to see is Chevrolet dropping 400 pounds out of the Equinox.

On the safety front, the Equinox will feature the options of surround-view camera system, forward collision warning, autonomous emergency braking, lane keep assist, and blind spot monitoring with rear cross traffic alert. Two new features will be Teen Driver (can set limits on speed and volume for your young driver) and Rear Seat Reminder (reminds you to check the back seat to prevent kids from overheating on a hot day).

No word on pricing, but Chevrolet says the 2018 Equinox will arrive at dealers in the first quarter of 2017.

Source: Chevrolet
Press Release is on Page 2

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CHEVROLET INTRODUCES ALL-NEW 2018 EQUINOX

• The perfect balance of design and technology

DETROIT — Call it the right balance. On the autumnal equinox today, Chevrolet introduced the all-new 2018 Equinox, a fresh and modern SUV sized and designed to meet the needs of the compact SUV customer.

“We’ve got the strongest truck business in the industry and we’ve reinvigorated our car lineup with Volt, Cruze and Malibu,” said Alan Batey, Global Chevrolet president. “We’re applying the same customer focus to grow our crossover/SUV business — starting with the Chevrolet Equinox.”

Today’s compact SUV customers want a vehicle that meets all of their needs, from design, connectivity and safety perspectives. The Equinox delivers on all fronts, starting with its fresh new design and all-new propulsion systems.

Fresh, new design
The new Equinox’s expressive exterior has a lean, muscular skin echoing the global Chevrolet design cues and sculpted shapes seen in the Volt, Malibu and Cruze. Extensive aero development in the wind tunnel influenced the sleek shape.

It is a richer, more detailed design featuring chrome trim on all models and Malibu-inspired styling. Projector-beam headlamps are standard, along with LED daytime running lamps. At the rear, horizontal taillamps emphasize the Equinox’s wide stance, while uplevel models feature LED taillamps. 

“Customers who previewed the vehicle early on had a strong emotional response to the sleek and sophisticated exterior design,” said John Cafaro, executive director, GM Design. “Those same themes are carried through to the interior, making the space beautifully intuitive.”

The interior takes advantage of the Equinox’s all-new architecture to offer a down-and-away instrument panel, while a low windshield base provides a commanding outward view. New elements such as available denim-style seat fabric blend high style with high durability, while a new “kneeling” rear seat enhances functionality. With it, the bottom cushions tilt forward when the split-folding seatbacks are lowered, allowing a flat floor for easier loading.

Connectivity
The 2018 Equinox offers purposeful technology that helps keep passengers safe, comfortable and connected.

Chevrolet’s latest connectivity technologies are front and center, including 7- and 8-inch-diagonal MyLink infotainment systems designed to support Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as an available OnStar 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot. (Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility is subject to their terms, privacy statements and data plan rates, as well as a compatible smartphone.)

Safety
The Equinox offers a comprehensive suite of available active safety technologies and adaptive crash-avoidance features that provide ease of use and peace of mind on the road.

Teen Driver is also offered, allowing parents to set controls and review an in-vehicle report card in order to encourage safer driving habits, even when they are not in the vehicle.  

Available advanced active safety features to enhance driver awareness on the road include radar- and camera-based adaptive technologies that can provide alerts to potential crash threats, allowing the driver to react and make changes to avoid them, including:

• New Safety Alert Seat
• New Surround Vision
• New Forward Collision Alert with Following Distance Indicator
• New Low-Speed Forward Automatic Braking
• New Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning
• New Rear Seat Reminder
• Lane Change Alert with Side Blind Zone Alert 
• Rear Cross Traffic Alert

Turbocharged engines and more 
A range of three turbocharged engines — including the compact SUV segment’s first turbo-diesel in North America — provides customers more choices when it comes to performance, efficiency and capability in the all-new 2018 Chevrolet Equinox.

They include a 1.5L turbo, a 2.0L turbo — matched with GM’s new nine-speed automatic transmission — and a 1.6L turbo-diesel.

“With three choices, customers can select an engine that offers more of the attributes that are important to them: efficiency, performance and capability,” said Dan Nicholson, vice president, Global Propulsion Systems. “The advantage for each is the power of a larger engine and the efficiency of a smaller engine.”

The new Equinox is the first Chevrolet model in North America to use an all-turbocharged, multi-engine powertrain lineup. That includes the expected segment-exclusive 1.6L turbo-diesel that will offer customers excellent efficiency and capability.

“It is an all-new SUV from the ground up and one that takes on the industry’s biggest competitors with a stronger architecture, greater efficiency and more technology,” said Rick Spina, executive chief engineer. “And it looks great doing it.”

Additional vehicle highlights:

• Approximately 400 pounds (180 kg) lighter than the current model — a 10 percent weight reduction
• Switchable AWD system that enhances efficiency by disconnecting from the rear axle when not needed 
• Unique kneeling rear seat that enables a flat rear load floor and up to 63.5 cubic feet (1,798 liters) of maximum cargo space

Equinox sales have reached more than 2 million since its launch and it is Chevrolet’s second-best retail selling vehicle, after the Silverado.

The 2018 Equinox goes on sale in the first quarter of 2017 in North America. It rolls out to approximately 115 additional global markets later in the year.

2018 CHEVROLET EQUINOX PRELIMINARY SPECIFICATIONS 
(NORTH AMERICA)

Overview

Models:	2018 Chevrolet Equinox
Body style / driveline:	five-passenger, four-door SUV, front-engine, front- or all-wheel drive
EPA vehicle class:	compact SUV

Powertrains

Engine / Type:	1.5L turbo DOHC DI	2.0L turbo DOHC DI	1.6L turbo-diesel
Block material:	cast aluminum	cast aluminum	cast aluminum
Cylinder head material:	cast aluminum	cast aluminum	cast aluminum
Fuel delivery:	direct injection	direct injection	direct injection
Horsepower (hp / kW):	170 / 127 (GM-estimated)	252 / 188 (GM-estimated)	136 / 101 (GM-estimated)
Torque (lb.-ft. / Nm):	203 / 275 (GM-estimated)	260 / 353 (GM-estimated)	236 / 320 (GM-estimated)
GM-est. fuel economy:	31 hwy	28 hwy	40 hwy
Transmission:	Hydra-Matic 6T40 six-speed automatic	Hydra-Matic 9T50 nine-speed automatic	Hydra-Matic 6T45 six-speed automatic

Chassis / Suspension

Suspension (front):	MacPherson strut with side-loaded modules, specifically tuned coil springs, direct-acting stabilizer bar
Suspension (rear):	4 Link Independent Rear Suspension
Steering type:	Dual Rack and Pinion Electric Power Steering
Turning circle (ft / m):	37.4 / 11.4 (17-inch wheels)

Brakes & Wheels

Brake type:	four-wheel disc with ABS and ESC; Duralife rotors and low-drag calipers (US)
Wheel size and type:	17-, 18- and 19-inch aluminum

Exterior Dimensions

Wheelbase (in / mm):	107.3 / 2725
Overall length (in / mm):	183.1 / 4652
Overall width (in / mm):	72.6 / 1843
Overall height (in / mm):	65.4 / 1661
Track (in / mm):	front: 62.2 / 1580 rear: 62.2 / 1581

Interior Dimensions

Seating capacity:	2 / 3
Headroom (in / mm):	Front - 40.0/1015 (w/o SR), 38.2/970 (w/ Sunroof) Rear - 38.5/977 (w/o SR), 36.9/936 (w/ Sunroof)
Legroom (in / mm):	40.9 / 1040 (front) 39.7 / 1008 (rear)
Shoulder room (in / mm):	57.2 / 1452 (front) 55.5 / 1410 (rear)
Hip room (in / mm):	54.2 / 1377 (front) 51.7 / 1314 (rear)

Weights & Capacities

Base curb weight (lb / kg):	3327 / 1509 (1.5L w/ FWD)
Fuel capacity (gal / L):	14.7 / 55 (FWD) TBD (AWD) 15.5 / 58 (1.6L diesel)
Max cargo room (cu ft / L):	29.9 / 846 (behind rear seat) 63.5 / 1798 (rear seat folded)
Max trailering (lb / kg):	3500 / 1585 (2.0L turbo)

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When Chevrolet announced the 2017 Bolt's range last week, they hinted that the model would have a price tag of under $37,500 and would qualify for the maximum $7,500 tax credit. Today, Chevrolet announced the starting price for the Bolt will be $37,495 when it arrives at dealers later this year. The company is quick to point out that the price drops to $29,995 once you add in the $7,500 federal tax credit. But we need to stress that this tax credit cannot be used during the purchase of the Bolt, so you're still paying the $37,495.

The base Bolt LT will come equipped with a regen-on-demand steering wheel paddle, 10.2-inch touchscreen, backup camera, and more. Premier models feature leather upholstery, heated front and rear seats, surround view camera, and the rear camera mirror. Chevrolet hasn't announced pricing for Premier at this time.

Source: Chevrolet
Press Release is on Page 2

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DETROIT – The Chevrolet Bolt EV set the range benchmark for an affordable EV capable of going the distance by offering an EPA-rated 238 miles on a full charge. Now, Chevrolet is keeping its promise to offer the Bolt EV at an affordable price by confirming a base Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price of $37,495 including destination charge. Depending on individual tax situations, customers may receive an available federal tax credit of up to $7,500 for a net value of $29,995.

“Value is a hallmark for Chevrolet and the pricing of the Bolt EV proves we’re serious about delivering the first affordable EV with plenty of range for our customers,” said Alan Batey, president of GM North America and leader of Global Chevrolet. “We have kept our promise yet again, first on range and now on price.”

Bolt EV buyers will find range, cargo space, technology and safety features standard in a great vehicle with crossover proportions. The thrill of driving an EV, along with the sales and service support of a nationwide network of Bolt EV certified Chevrolet dealers, makes the Bolt EV a smart buy for any customer.

The well-equipped LT trim starts at $37,495 and comes with standard features that include, among others, Regen on Demand™ steering wheel paddle, rear vision camera, 10.2-inch diagonal color touch screen and MICHELIN™ Self-sealing tires (in certain circumstances). The top trim Premier includes all LT equipment plus additional standard features such as leather-appointed seats, front and rear heated seats, surround camera and rear camera mirror. Pricing includes destination and freight charges and excludes tax, title, license and dealer fees. The Bolt EV will be available at select dealerships in late 2016.

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The key problem with most electric vehicles is the lack of range. Currently, a number of electric vehicles only offer a range of under 120 miles. The general consensus is that for electric vehicles to take off, they would need at least 200 miles of range. Tesla made headlines earlier this year when it announced their upcoming entry-level model, the Model 3 would offer a range of 215 miles. But the Chevrolet Bolt, due out later this year will offer a longer range.

This morning, Chevrolet announced the Bolt is rated by the EPA to deliver an estimated range of 238 miles. 

“While range is important, we knew Bolt EV owners would want more — more space and more power — and the Bolt EV delivers. Our team took special pride in optimizing every aspect of this vehicle, especially its impressive range and ride dynamics,” said Bolt EV Chief Engineer Josh Tavel in a statement.

Chevrolet says Bolt pricing will start at under $37,500 and will qualify for the $7,500 federal tax credit.

Source: Chevrolet

Press Release is on Page 2

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Bolt EV Offers 238 Miles of Range

DETROIT – Chevrolet promised to offer the first affordable electric vehicle with 200 miles or more of range and will exceed those expectations when the 2017 Bolt EV goes on sale later this year. With the vehicle’s EPA-estimated range of 238 miles, owners can expect to go beyond their average daily driving needs — with plenty of range to spare — in the 2017 Bolt EV when charging regularly.

“Chevrolet showed the world the production version Bolt EV earlier this year and in a few short months we’ve moved from that vision to a reality,” said GM North America President Alan Batey. “The Bolt EV is a game changer for the electric car segment and it will start to become available at Chevrolet dealerships later this year.”

Bolt EV buyers won’t be able to find a better value for an all-electric, thrill-inducing ride with an expected MSRP below $37,500 and before available federal tax credit of up to $7,500*. Plenty of range, cargo space, technology and safety features make the Bolt EV a great package for any driver.    

“While range is important, we knew Bolt EV owners would want more — more space and more power — and the Bolt EV delivers,” said Bolt EV Chief Engineer Josh Tavel. “Our team took special pride in optimizing every aspect of this vehicle, especially its impressive range and ride dynamics.”

When the Bolt EV arrives at select Chevrolet dealerships in late 2016, Chevrolet will offer a flavor of electrification to meet any customer’s needs. Whether it’s the pure electric Bolt EV, the Chevrolet Volt or the Chevrolet Malibu Hybrid, Chevrolet dealerships are full of affordable options for an efficient and engaging driving experience. More information on the Chevrolet electric family and the benefits of driving electric can be found at ChevyEVlife.com.

*Final Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price not yet announced and does not include, tax, title, license or optional equipment. Actual savings from the federal government depend on individual tax situations.

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In light of fresh competition in the form of the refreshed Toyota Tacoma and new Honda Ridgeline, Chevrolet has announced some updates for the 2017 Colorado.

First is a new 3.6L V6 producing 308 horsepower and 275 pound-feet of torque (up 3 horsepower and 6 pound-feet). Changes to the engine include a revised direct injection system, updated variable valve timing, and cylinder deactivation. We can't help but wonder if this is the same engine that resides in a number of Cadillac models. A new eight-speed automatic transmission is hooked up to the V6. The transmission features a higher first gear (helps with towing or hauling a heavy load) and lower rear axle ratios will improve fuel economy.

At the moment, we don't have EPA numbers for the V6 or pricing details. We do know the 2017 Colorado will go on sale later this year. Expect a similar announcement for the GMC Canyon in the near future.

Source: Chevrolet
Press Release is on Page 2

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Chevrolet Colorado Resets the Bar for Midsize Segment

• 2017 model updated with all-new V-6 and class-exclusive eight-speed automatic

DETROIT – For 2017, the Chevrolet Colorado offers an all-new V-6 engine and class-exclusive eight-speed automatic. It is the latest major update for Colorado, which entered the market for model year 2015. Chevrolet is on track to sell more than 160,000 Colorados in the first 24 months on the market, reigniting the midsize segment.

“Customers made the Colorado an overnight success and it remains one of the industry’s hottest-selling products,” said Anita Burke, Colorado chief engineer. “That fast success has justified our continued investment in midsize pickups, introducing new features for our customers such as the class-exclusive diesel engine, advanced technologies like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and now a class-leading V-6 and eight-speed automatic powertrain combination.”

Class-exclusive powertrain combination 
The most significant update for the 2017 Colorado is an all-new V-6 engine and eight-speed transmission, creating a combination that’s unmatched in the midsize segment.

According to Stan Ludlow, chief engineer for the 2017 Colorado, the engine and transmission were calibrated to emphasize performance and refinement while optimizing fuel economy: “The Colorado is currently the most fuel-efficient pickup truck in America, with an EPA-estimated 31 mpg highway when equipped with the diesel engine. As such, for the new V-6 and eight-speed combination we focused on improving everyday driving performance. Drivers will immediately notice that it pulls harder when accelerating from a stop or passing on the highway; it is more confident pulling a trailer up a steep grade and it is more refined cruising at a constant highway speed.”

This second generation of Chevrolet’s double-overhead-cam engine architecture retains the same 3.6L displacement as before, with an updated suite of advanced engine technologies. This includes improved variable valve timing for intake and exhaust, improved direct injection and for the first time, Active Fuel Management (cylinder deactivation), which disables two cylinders under light throttle applications. Horsepower and torque increase to an SAE-certified 308 hp (230 kW) at 6,800 rpm and 275 lb-ft (373 nM) at 4,000 rpm.

The engine is mated to the class-exclusive eight-speed automatic. The GM-developed Hydra-Matic 8L45 is roughly the same size and weight as the 6L80 six-speed automatic it replaces. However, the eight-speed automatic offers a wider 7.0 overall gear ratio spread than the 6L80 transmission’s 6.0 ratio. This results in a numerically higher first gear ratio, helping drivers start off more confidently with a heavy load or when trailering, and numerically lower rear axle ratios that reduce engine rpm on the highway for improved efficiency.

Extensive use of aluminum and magnesium, combined with similar packaging to the outgoing 6L80 transmission, equates to no increase in overall weight for Colorado models equipped with the new 8L45 transmission.

The 2017 model year updates, including the new V-6 and eight-speed combination, will arrive at dealerships in the fourth quarter of this year. 

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With a supercharged 6.2L V8 producing 650 horsepower and 650 pound-feet of torque, the 2017 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 looks to be giving a number of sports car a run for their money. But getting into one will cost you a fair penny. Chevrolet has announced the Camaro ZL1 will begin at $62,135 for the coupe and $69,135 for the convertible. Both prices include destination.

 

“The Camaro ZL1 offers supercar performance with daily-driver refinement, a combination that stacks up against any other sports coupe – at any price – around the world,” said Steve Majoros, director of Chevrolet marketing.

 

If that is a bit too much, Chevrolet has the 1LE package available for the LT and SS models. The LT 1LE comes with FE3 suspension package with stabilizer bars, mechanical limited-slip differential, upgraded cooling system, and four-piston Brembo brakes up front. The SS 1LE features the FE4 suspension package with magnetic ride control, electronic limited slip differential, six-piston Brembo brakes, and a set of Goodyear Eagle F1 Supercar tires.

 

The 1LE adds $4,500 to the base price of the LT and $6,500 to the SS.

 

Source: Chevrolet

 

Press Release is on Page 2

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2017 CAMARO ZL1 AND 1LE: GET USED TO OUR TAILLIGHTS

• Lighter, more powerful performance models put pricier competition in the rearview
  

DETROIT – The 2017 ZL1, the most powerful production Camaro ever, and the track-bred 1LE are designed to deliver exhilarating performance on both the open road and the road course, at prices that leave the competition behind.

 

When they go on sale later this year, the 2017 Camaro ZL1 will be priced at $62,135 for coupe models and $69,135 for convertibles. Prices include destination charge, but not tax, title and other dealer fees. The 1LE package is a $4,500 MSRP option on Camaro V-6 LT coupe models and $6,500 on the V-8 1SS coupe model. For LT coupes, the 1LE package features the Camaro SS’s FE3 suspension, while the 1SS benefits from the ZL1’s electronic limited-slip differential and FE4 suspension with Magnetic Ride dampers.

 

“The Camaro ZL1 offers supercar performance with daily-driver refinement, a combination that stacks up against any other sports coupe – at any price – around the world,” said Steve Majoros, director, Chevrolet marketing.

 

“Building on Chevrolet’s well-established recipe for track-focused performance, the new 1LE packages expand the performance envelope of the Camaro SS and, for the first time, the Camaro LT,” said Al Oppenheiser, Camaro chief engineer. “You’ll be hard-pressed to find more track-capable cars in their respective classes for the money.”

 

ZL1

• 0-60 mph in 3.5 seconds
• Quarter-mile in 11.4 seconds at 127 mph
• 1.02 g max cornering
• 60-0 mph braking in 107 feet (32 meters)
• 220-pound (100 kg) weight reduction
• 650-horsepower (485 kW) supercharged LT4 6.2L V-8 engine
  

*ZL1 performance numbers achieved with a coupe equipped with the available 10-speed automatic transmission and using original-equipment tires on a non-prepped surface.

 

1LE

• 0-60 mph in 5.2 seconds with Camaro LT 1LE
• 0-60 mph in 4.2 seconds with Camaro SS 1LE
• 0.97 g max cornering with Camaro LT 1LE
• 1.02 g max cornering with Camaro SS 1LE
• 60-0 mph braking in 112 feet (34 meters) with Camaro LT 1LE
• 60-0 mph braking in 107 feet (32 meters) with Camaro SS 1LE
• 230-pound (104 kg) weight reduction (SS 1LE to previous model)
  

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This fall will see the Chevrolet Cruze Hatchback arrive at dealerships. Pricing for the new Cruze variant will start at $22,190 (includes a $875 destination charge). Compared to the sedan, the Cruze Hatch is about $5,000 more. It should be noted that the hatchback isn't offered in the base L or LS trims like the sedan. The more apt comparison would the Cruze LT sedan which begins at $20,695. Comparing the prices of the LT models sees a difference of $1,495.

 

The Cruze Hatchback will use the same turbocharged 1.4: four-cylinder engine with 153 horsepower and 177 pound-feet of torque. No word if the hatchback will get a manual transmission or if it will be just an automatic only model.

 

Compared to the sedan, the Cruze hatchback offers an additional 3.7 cubic feet of space behind the rear seats (18.5 vs. 14.​8 cubic feet). Space increases to 42 cubic feet when the rear seats are folded.

 

Source: Chevrolet

 

Press Release is on Page 2

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2017 CHEVROLET CRUZE HATCHBACK STARTS AT $22,190

 

DETROIT – The all-new 2017 Cruze Hatchback will start at $22,190 when it arrives in dealerships this fall. The price includes the destination charge, but not tax, title and other dealer fees.

 

The Cruze Hatch is the latest addition to the expanding Cruze lineup, which was redesigned for 2016. It will be offered in LT and Premier trims, and with the RS package.

 

Sharing the Ecotec 1.4L turbo and dynamic driving experience of the sedan, the Cruze Hatch offers increased cargo space of up to 47.2 cubic feet (1,189 L). Along with the sedan, it is the most connected car on the road, with segment-exclusive technologies such as 4G LTE with Wi-Fi hotspot, Teen Driver and wireless charging. Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility make the most of Cruze’s connectivity with a smartphone.

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The 2017 Chevrolet Corvette Grand Sport provides a middle ground between the standard Corvette and the all-mighty Z06. Case in point is the price. Chevrolet announced the pricing for the Grand Sport which begins at $66,445 for the coupe and $70,445 for the convertible (both prices include destination). The standard Corvette starts at $56,395 and the Corvette Z06 begins at $80,395.

 

The Grand Sport gets the Z06's chassis tuning, upgraded cooling systems, aerodynamic package, electronic limited-slip differential, and Michelin Pilot Super Sport tires. Optional is the Z07 package that adds carbon ceramic-matrix brakes and Michelin Pilot Sport 2 Cup tires. The 6.2L V8 with 460 horsepower provides the firepower.

 

Later this year, Chevrolet will offer a Collector Edition that comes with a Watkins Glen Gray Metallic paint with Tension Blue hash-mark graphics, satin black full-length stripes, black wheels and a full leather and suede-wrapped interior finished in blue.

 

Chevrolet says the Corvette Grand Sport will arrive at dealers this summer.

 

Source: Chevrolet

 

Press Release is on Page 2

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2017 CORVETTE GRAND SPORT PRICED AT $66,445

• Track-focused model offers 1.2g cornering, 3.6-sec. 0-60 time with Z07 package
  

BOWLING GREEN, Ky. – Chevrolet announced today the track-bred 2017 Corvette Grand Sport will be priced at $66,445 for coupe models and $70,445 for convertibles, when they go on sale this summer. The prices include the destination charge, but not tax, title and other dealer fees.

 

With heritage-inspired design cues combined with track-focused chassis and suspension elements, the new Grand Sport builds on a legacy established in 1963, when five Grand Sport race cars were built under the direction of the Corvette’s first chief engineer, Zora Arkus-Duntov.

 

“The racing DNA of the original Grand Sport race cars is in the 2017 model, adding greater dimensions of capability and driver involvement to the Corvette’s award-winning architecture, for a purer driving experience,” said Harlan Charles, Corvette product marketing manager. “It is a worthy successor to the spirit of the originals.”

 

The 2017 Grand Sport’s lightweight architecture, downforce-producing aerodynamics package, enhanced cooling package, electronic limited-slip differential and Michelin Pilot Super Sport tires combine to offer a Chevrolet-estimated 1.05g in cornering capability – and up to 1.2g with the available Z07 package, which includes Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires.

 

The new Grand Sport also offers estimated 0-60-mph performance of 3.6 seconds and quarter-mile capability of 11.8 seconds at 118 mph, with the available Z07 performance package and available paddle-shift eight-speed automatic transmission. A seven-speed manual with Active Rev Match is standard.

 

Further, engineers adapted the Brembo braking system from the Corvette Z06 to give it estimated 60-0-mph performance of less than 100 feet with the available Z07 package, which adds carbon ceramic-matrix brake rotors, along the PS Cup 2 tires.

 

In addition to the track-focused chassis and suspension components, the Grand Sport features unique exterior elements, including specific front fender inserts and Z06-style grille, as well as wider fenders and rear quarter panels to accommodate a wider track.

 

Grand Sport models are offered with the Stingray’s full exterior and interior color palette, including 10 exterior colors:

• Admiral Blue Metallic (late 2016 addition)
• Watkins Glen Gray Metallic (new for 2017)
• Black Rose Metallic (new for 2017)
• Sterling Blue Metallic (new for 2017)
• Long Beach Red Metallic Tintcoat
• Arctic White
• Blade Silver Metallic
• Black
• Corvette Racing Yellow Tintcoat
• Torch Red
  

An available Heritage package includes hash-mark fender graphics in six colors, with the hash mark detail carried onto the interior’s brushed aluminum trim. Full-length stripes are also offered in five colors. They are joined by the available Z07 package, five wheel choices and available carbon fiber ground effects to offer a wide and diverse range of customizable choices.

 

“The choices are almost endless,” said Charles. “The Corvette Grand Sport’s custom ordering options take personalization to an unprecedented level, enabling customers to create their own Corvette Grand Sport statement.”

 

A Grand Sport Collector Edition will be offered later in the model year, featuring Watkins Glen Gray Metallic exterior with Tension Blue hash-mark graphics, satin black full-length stripes, black wheels and a unique Tension Blue full leather and suede-wrapped interior. A three-dimensional representation of an original Grand Sport race car is embossed in the headrests and that shape is also used on an instrument panel plaque that carries a unique build sequence number.

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Let it be said the team charged with the Chevrolet Camaro isn't one to take a rest. Despite launching a new generation of the model last year, they have been hard at work on new and updated variants. Case in point is the 2017 Camaro ZL1.

 

Like the last-generation model, the 2017 ZL1 packs a Supercharged 6.2L V8. But engineers have boosted power from 580 horsepower and 556 pound-feet of torque to 640 horsepower and 640 pound-feet of torque. A six-speed manual transmission with rev-matching comes standard and a new ten-speed automatic - developed with Ford - that offers close gear ratios and fast shifts. The powertrain also boasts eleven heat exchangers, an auxiliary transmission oil cooler, and a set of functional heat extractors.

 

Aside from the engine, the chassis has been given a once over. There is an updated Magnetic Ride Control system, Performance Traction Management, electronic limited-slip differential, six-piston Brembo brakes, and a set of Goodyear Eagle F1 Supercar tires with a set of 20-inch forged alloy wheels.

 

Outside, the Camaro ZL1 makes its presence known with larger front splitter, new grille, a reshaped hood with a carbon fiber insert, wider front and rear fenders; and a large wing. The new body parts aren't just for looks as all of these parts have been tested extensively to improve aerodynamics.

 

Source: Chevrolet

 

 

Press Release is on Page 2

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Camaro ZL1 vs. Everybody

• Unprecedented levels of refinement, track capability and drag-strip performance
  

DETROIT – The 2017 Camaro ZL1 is poised to challenge the most advanced sports coupes in the world in any measure – with unprecedented levels of technology, refinement, track capability and straight-line acceleration.

 

“The Camaro ZL1 is designed to excel at everything,” said Mark Reuss, executive vice president of Global Product Development. “It’s a 2+2 coupe offering incredible performance – acceleration, handling and braking – with the highest levels of technology and perfect chassis damping, making it suitable for everyday driving. It will compare well to any sports coupe, at any price and in any setting.”

 

Acceleration for the ZL1 is delivered with a new supercharged 6.2L V-8 engine estimated at 640 hp (477 kW), and either a six-speed manual transmission with active rev matching or an all-new 10-speed automatic. Handling capability starts with the lightweight, stiffer structure of the all-new sixth-Gen Camaro, married with Magnetic Ride suspension and an electronic limited-slip differential. Standard technologies include Driver Mode Selector, dual-mode exhaust and advanced connectivity features.

 

The Camaro ZL1 goes on sale late this year.

 

Designed for Performance
Functionality defines the Camaro ZL1’s form, with the exterior shaped during more than 100 hours of wind-tunnel testing and on-track validation to improve aerodynamics and cooling for track use. Accordingly, its exterior elements all play a part in managing airflow over, under and through the ZL1.

 

“The design supports the Camaro ZL1’s exceptional performance and does so with compelling style,” said John Mack, Camaro exterior design manager. “From every angle, the elements coalesce to give the car a purposeful, super aggressive attitude.”

 

The lower grille opening, for example, offers greater airflow compared to the Camaro SS, and the upper grille incorporates a new version of the “flow-tie” open bowtie insignia. There’s also a new hood, with a carbon fiber insert and heat extractor that pulls hot air from the engine compartment. Additional changes include a larger front splitter, unique rockers, a wing-style rear spoiler and wider front fenders – all tuned to improve aerodynamics for greater high-speed stability.

 

Inside, there are standard Recaro front seats, along with a sueded flat-bottom steering wheel and shift knob. Chevrolet’s Performance Data Recorder is available.

 

Fast with finesse
A cohesive suite of performance technologies tailors ZL1’s performance for street and track. Features include an updated Magnetic Ride suspension, Performance Traction Management, electronic limited-slip differential, Custom Launch Control and Driver Mode Selector. It also has a stronger power-to-weight ratio than its predecessor, weighing 200 pounds less, while offering approximately 60 more horsepower and 80 more pound-feet of torque.

 

The result is a one-of-a-kind driving experience.

 

“Driving the Camaro ZL1 is best described as ‘fast with finesse,’” said Reuss. “It is beautifully balanced, with perfect damping and isolation for optimal performance and driver confidence in virtually any situation – from the Pacific Coast Highway to Willow Springs to Pomona.”

 

Additional chassis features include:

• Unique 20-inch forged aluminum wheels with 285/30ZR20 front and 305/30ZR20 rear tires
• Goodyear Eagle F1 Supercar tires with a compound and construction developed exclusively for the Camaro to offer exceptional grip on the track
• Brembo brakes with six-piston monobloc front calipers – featuring the ZL1 logo – and massive, 15.35-inch (390 mm) two-piece front rotors.
  

Supercharged performance and new 10-speed automatic
Underhood, the ZL1 features a supercharged LT4 6.2L V-8 Small Block engine, with intake and exhaust systems tailored for Camaro. It is rated at an estimated 640 horsepower (477 kW) and 640 lb-ft of torque (868 Nm).

 

The LT4 is backed by a standard six-speed manual transmission or all-new, available paddle-shift 10-speed automatic. The 10-speed automatic has 7.39 overall ratio for smaller steps between gears. It enables the LT4 engine to remain at optimal rpm levels during acceleration, particularly when exiting corners, for quicker laps and lightning-quick responses on both up- and down-shifts.

 

This is the first Chevrolet application of the new quick-shift 10-speed, with unique calibrations and hardware developed exclusively for the ZL1. By the end of 2018, GM will introduce the new 10-speed automatic in eight vehicle models.

 

Finally – and unlike some competitors – there’s no need to purchase an optional package to make the ZL1 track ready. Track capability comes standard, with features including an impressive 11 heat exchangers for optimal powertrain cooling.

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Chevrolet already has a unique option for picking up a new vehicle. For an additional $990 on top of a the price of a new Corvette, you can pick it up at the National Corvette Museum in Bowling Green, KY. Chevrolet thought that wasn't enough and announced yesterday of another delivery program.

 

The new program will allow a customer to pick up their new Chevrolet at the Daytona International Speedway and drive their new vehicle on the track. The program also includes a special memento of the event, and documentation saying the vehicle was picked up here. Chevrolet has a dedicated delivery center that will be on the infield near victory lane.

 

“Beyond the vehicle, we are determined to deliver exceptional service through our dealers and unique experiences that only Chevrolet can offer, like driving your first miles in your new vehicle at the famed Daytona International Speedway,” said said Alan Batey, president of GM North America in a statement.

 

Pricing for this program hasn't been announced. Chevrolet says 2017 model year vehicles will be eligible for the program although it isn't clear what vehicles can take part.

 

Source: Chevrolet

 

Press Release is on Page 2

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TAKE A SPIN IN YOUR NEW CHEVY AT DAYTONA INTERNATIONAL SPEEDWAY

 

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. – Have you ever wondered what it is like to drive on the track at the famed Daytona International Speedway? If you buy a new Chevrolet, your dealer will be able to offer you that opportunity.

 

Chevrolet and DIS today announced an exclusive delivery experience at the Speedway. This extra cost option will be available later this year through U.S. Chevrolet dealers on select new vehicle orders. While details are still being finalized, customers who order the option can expect:

• A tour of Daytona International Speedway
• An on-track driving experience
• A keepsake to commemorate the experience
• Authentication that the vehicle was delivered and driven at the Speedway
  

“Chevrolet is committed to offering our customers the best overall vehicle ownership experience possible – starting with the most technologically advanced and most dynamic vehicles in the brands history,” said Alan Batey, president of General Motors North America and leader of Global Chevrolet. “Beyond the vehicle, we are determined to deliver exceptional service through our dealers and unique experiences that only Chevrolet can offer, like driving your first miles in your new vehicle at the famed Daytona International Speedway.”

 

The Chevrolet Delivery Center at DIS will be located in the infield adjacent to Gatorade Victory Lane and will have the familiar appearance of a neighborhood Chevrolet dealership. Customers will choose the option to have their vehicle delivered at DIS during the ordering process. Pricing will be available at a later date.

 

“The Chevrolet Delivery Center is the type of elevated experience that guests visiting Daytona International Speedway come to expect,” Daytona International Speedway president Joie Chitwood III said. “This new offering complements the enhancements already made to the ‘World Center of Racing’ through the $400 million DAYTONA Rising redevelopment project. We’re looking forward to witnessing that first delivery later this year.”

 

Chevrolet already offers Corvette customers the option to have their vehicle delivered at the National Corvette Museum in Bowling Green, Ky. The Museum Delivery option includes a private tour of the GM Bowling Green Assembly Plant, home of the Corvette, and the National Corvette Museum. The owner then takes delivery of their new Corvette from the museum showroom, where their own car is on display. The delivery process includes a personalized demonstration of their Corvette’s features, broadcast around the world via live webcam 24 hours a day. The Corvette Museum Delivery option is $990.

 

DAYTONA Rising
Chevrolet is a Founding Partner at DIS as part of its DAYTONA Rising redevelopment project.

 

The historic $400 million DAYTONA Rising project, encompassing the Speedway’s nearly one-mile long frontstretch, recently debuted during the Rolex 24 At Daytona where Chevrolet’s Corvette Racing team took first and second in the GT Le Mans (GTLM) Class. DAYTONA Rising has transformed DIS into the world’s first motorsports stadium, with premium amenities and attractions.

 

The multi-year agreement provides Chevrolet with naming rights for one of five fan injectors. The massive, new and redesigned entry includes more than 20,000 square feet of Chevrolet new vehicle displays and a fan engagement experience that vertically spans three concourse levels.

 

Additionally, Chevrolet is an official partner of “The Great American Race,” the DAYTONA 500®, and will receive Official Pace Car rights in select years beginning in 2017.

 

“Chevrolet’s commitment to racing originated more than a century ago with Louis Chevrolet and remains strong today as we solidify our presence at the ‘World Center of Racing’ by partnering with International Speedway Corporation, Daytona International Speedway and the DAYTONA Rising project,” Batey said.

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Chevrolet is gearing up to launch its newest hybrid, the Mailbu Hybrid. When it goes on sale in the spring, it will carry a base price of $28,645 (includes a $875 destination charge). Now compared to the standard Malibu, the Hybrid is about $6,145 more. The Malibu Hybrid is also slightly more expensive than the Ford Fusion Hybrid (about $3,000) and Toyota Camry Hybrid (about $2,000).

 

But the high price does mean a lot of equipment for the hybrid. Standard on all models is 10 airbags, cruise control, push-button start with passive entry, a 7-inch touchscreen with Chevrolet MyLink, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capability, and a backup camera.

 

Power comes from a 1.8L four-cylinder and an electric motor delivering a total output of 181. GM says the Malibu Hybrid is capable of getting 48 MPG in the City/45 MPG on the Highway/41 Combined. This is better than any other midsize hybrid sedan on sale.

 

Source: Chevrolet

 

Press Release is on Page 2

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NEXT-GEN CHEVROLET MALIBU HYBRID LT STARTS AT $28,645

• Projected to offer 48 MPG city using technologies borrowed from Volt
  

DETROIT – The 2016 Chevrolet Malibu Hybrid LT, which achieves a General Motors’-estimated 48 mpg city, will be available this spring with a starting price of $28,645.
“The Malibu leverages knowledge and technology directly from the second-generation Chevrolet Volt,” said Steve Majoros, marketing director of Chevrolet Cars and Crossovers. “By leveraging technology, we are broadening our level of expertise and lessons learned to bring consumers a world-class hybrid.”
With an all-new, hybrid powertrain that uses a slightly modified drive unit and electric motors used in the 2016 Chevrolet Volt, the Malibu Hybrid offers a GM-estimated 48 mpg city, 45 mpg highway – and 47 mpg combined, unsurpassed in the midsize car segment. Official EPA estimates are pending.
The Malibu Hybrid model includes standard Chevrolet MyLink Radio with 7-inch diagonal color touch screen, available Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and a rear vision camera. CarPlay and Android Auto are products of Apple and Google and their terms, data plan rates and privacy statements apply and require a compatible smartphone.
Other standard equipment on the Malibu Hybrid includes 10 airbags, cruise control and push-button start with passive entry. Anew Ecotec 1.8L hybrid optimized direct-injected engine is mated with a two-motor electric drive unit.
The 2016 Malibu Hybrid offers several new-to-Malibu safety technologies including Lane Keep Assist, Front Pedestrian Braking and Low Speed Front Automatic Braking. Teen Driver, available on all Malibu models, helps support safe driving habits by muting the audio or any device paired with the vehicle when front-seat occupants aren’t wearing their seat belts. It is also the first in-vehicle system in the industry that lets parents view information on how their teenagers drove the vehicle, which can be a teaching tool to reinforce safe driving habits.
The 2016 Malibu is built at the GM Fairfax Assembly facility, in Kansas City, Kan. from globally sourced parts.

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The Chevrolet Colorado Duramax today took the title of most fuel efficient truck available away from the Ram 1500 EcoDiesel. The Colorado Duramax two wheel drive models are rated for estimated 31 mpg highway and four wheel drive models are estimated at 29 mpg highway. City and combined ratings are 22/25 and 20/23 respectively.

 

For comparison, the 2.5 liter 4-cylinder is 20/27 mpg city/highway, and the 3.6 liter V6 2WD is rated at 18/26.

 

Additionally, the EPA issued a Certificate of Conformity for the Duramax stating there were no issues with the emissions control system, this extra statement included no doubt due to the recent Volkswagen emissions cheating scandal.

 

The 2.8 liter 4-cylinder turbo diesel produces 181 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque and mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission and can sip B20 bio-diesel if needed.

 

One of the main selling points to the Colorado Duramax, aside from the fuel economy, is the towing ability. The 2WD model is rated for 7,700 pounds and the 4WD model is rated for 7,600 pound when equipped with the proper tow package, an increase of 700 pounds. Further helping with towing duties are the diesel exhaust braking feature and integrated trailer brake controller.

 

Opting for the Duramax will set you back an additional $3,730 over a similarly equipped 3.6 liter gasoline V6.

 

 

Press Release on Page 2

 

Source: Chevrolet Media
Photos: Drew Dowdell - CheersandGears.com

 

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For Immediate Release: Monday, Nov. 9, 2015

 

• 2016 Colorado two-wheel drive model offers EPA-estimated 31 mpg highway
• Up to 7,700 pounds of trailering when properly equipped
  

 

DETROIT – Chevrolet today confirmed that the 2016 Colorado two-wheel drive with the Duramax turbo-diesel will be the most fuel efficient pickup in America, offering an Environmental Protection Agency-estimated 31 mpg highway fuel economy.

 

The EPA-estimated highway fuel economy for 2016 Colorado four-wheel drive diesel is 29 mpg.

 

The EPA has issued a Certificate of Conformity for the Chevrolet Colorado Duramax diesel. The agency expressed no issues or concerns following its recent extensive testing and evaluation of the emission control system on the Colorado Duramax diesel.

 

With the Colorado’s 21-gallon fuel tank, the 2WD model offers an estimated maximum highway range of 651 miles per tank.

 

“The Colorado Duramax diesel is in a league of its own,” said Sandor Piszar, director of Chevrolet Truck Marketing. “Colorado’s gas models already led the segment in fuel efficiency, and the new diesel – which no other non-GM competitor offers on a midsize truck – gives customers even greater freedom to go where they want with fewer fill-ups.”

 

The 2016 Colorado diesel 2WD offers an EPA estimated 22 mpg city and 25 mpg combined. The 4WD model offers an EPA estimated 20 mpg city and 23 mpg combined.

 

Colorado Duramax diesel’s fuel economy complements segment-leading capability, including maximum trailering ratings of up to 7,700 pounds (3,492 kg) on 2WD models and up to 7,600 pounds (3,447 kg) for 4WD models with the available trailering package.

 

Colorado’s all-new 2.8L Duramax turbo-diesel engine generates 181 horsepower (135 kW) and 369 lb-ft of torque (500 Nm). It is paired with the Hydra-Matic 6L50 six-speed automatic transmission, which uses a unique Centrifugal Pendulum Vibration Absorber in the torque converter to reduce powertrain noise and vibration.

 

A variable-geometry turbocharger helps optimize power and efficiency across the rpm band, while a balance shaft contributes to smoothness. Colorado’s diesel is engineered to be B20-capable.

 

Two new features add control and confidence to the Colorado diesel: smart diesel exhaust braking and an integrated trailer brake controller. Smart diesel exhaust braking enhances vehicle control and reduces brake wear by reducing the need for breaking on downgrades. The integrated trailer brake controller works with the antilock brake system to provide immediate and measured brake force, eliminating the need for an aftermarket trailer brake controller.

 

The Colorado diesel goes on sale this fall, offered in LT and Z71 Crew Cab models, with 2WD or 4WD. Pricing for the diesel engine option is $3,730 more than a comparably equipped 3.6L V-6 model.

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If you have a Chevrolet Corvette Stingray sitting in your garage and wished it had some of performance found on the hot Corvette Z06, then we have some good news for you. This week at the SEMA show, Chevrolet announced a new series of performance parts derived from the Z06.

 

The parts include new brakes, chassis components, cooling components, and suspension. They can be added to any Corvette Stingray, even those without the Z51 Performance Package.

 

"No one has spent more time developing Corvette performance parts than Chevrolet and this new range of components is the result of countless hours of testing that aftermarket companies can't match. You can mix and match the parts to build your own ultimate Stingray track car – all with factory-engineered components customers can trust will fit and perform as expected," said Mark Dickens, director, Performance Variants, Parts and Motorsports.

 

Source: Chevrolet

 

Press Release is on Page 2

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New Z06 Parts Enhance Corvette Stingray Performance

• Broad range of chassis, suspension and aero components enhance capability
  

PAHRUMP, Nev. – Chevrolet today and drivers from the Ron Fellows Corvette high-performance driving school at the Spring Mountain track demonstrated Stingray models enhanced with components from a new lineup of Z06-based performance parts.
They're designed for 2014+ Stingray models, including Z51-equipped cars.
"We've selected specific components from the Corvette Z06 and engineered them to fit the award-winning Stingray," said Jim Campbell, Chevrolet U.S. vice president of Performance Vehicles and Motorsports. "These Z06 parts enhance the handling, braking, cooling and downforce performance of the Stingray."
Ron Fellows, champion Corvette Racing driver, collaborated with Chevrolet Performance engineers on the all-new portfolio. Many will be used in cars in the new Michelin Corvette Challenge racing series, which was developed with Fellows and will run a 15-race schedule starting in February 2016.
"Here at Spring Mountain, we drive the Corvette Stingray and Z06 at their limits nearly every day, so we're in a unique position to recognize the parts that are most effective," said Ron Fellows. "The effect of the new, Z06-based parts on the Stingray's track capability is dramatic. They take the Stingray's already great stopping and cornering capabilities to yet another exciting level of stability and precision."
Most of the Z06 parts are offered as direct replacements for the Stingray's original parts.

 

"No one has spent more time developing Corvette performance parts than Chevrolet and this new range of components is the result of countless hours of testing that aftermarket companies can't match," said Mark Dickens, director, Performance Variants, Parts and Motorsports. "You can mix and match the parts to build your own ultimate Stingray track car – all with factory-engineered components customers can trust will fit and perform as expected."

 

The new performance parts portfolio includes:

Corvette Z06 Level 3 Aero Package
This kit is an upgrade for Level 2-equipped Corvette Z06 models and adds elements from the Z07 Performance Package, including larger end plates to the front splitter, as well as an adjustable, transparent wickerbill on the rear spoiler.

Corvette Z06 600-Watt Radiator Fan
Developed to meet the Z06's cooling requirements, this powerful, 600-watt radiator cooling fan increases the fan speed over the Stingray's 500-Watt system for greater airflow and enhanced cooling capability. It is a direct replacement for the standard Corvette Stingray cooling fan.

Corvette Secondary Radiator Kit
This kit adds cooling capability to manual transmission Corvettes (base Stingray, Z51 and Z06). The engine coolant temperatures are lowered 25 degrees F along with lowering engine oil temperatures 15 degrees F. The addition of the Z06 grille further enhances the cooling performance of this kit.

 

Corvette Z06 Grille Kit
The Z06 front grille was designed to provide maximum airflow to the radiator, intercooler and brake cooling ducts for the 650-hp supercar, resulting in a 17-percent increase in front-end airflow, compared to the grille of the Corvette Stingray Z51. It's a direct replacement for the Stingray grille insert. Additionally, the inlet ramps to the brake cooling ducts were optimized to balance the airflow demands of brake cooling and engine cooling.

Corvette Z06 Quarter Panel Vents
They offer larger openings than the Corvette Stingray, for increased airflow to the transmission oil cooler and differential cooler – an approximately 25-percent improvement over the airflow of the Z51 at speed, to help maintain cooling performance.

Corvette Z06 Rear Transmission Oil Cooler
The larger Z06 rear transmission oil cooler fits in the same location as the base Stingray and Z51 cooler and adds extra cooling capacity. It works best when paired with the Z06 Quarter Panel Vents to maximize airflow through the cooler.

Corvette Z06 Carbon Fiber Torque Tube and Prop Shaft Kit
The lightweight Z06 Carbon Fiber Torque Tube assembly saves almost 15.5 pounds (7 Kg) compared to the Stingray's steel-intensive torque tube. The kit also includes higher-temperature rubber couplers in the prop shaft. Applications vary by transmission and model year. The torque tube is also available separately.

Corvette Stingray Heat Shield
This larger heat shield helps protect the prop shaft from higher temperatures. It is only required for 2014 Corvette Stingray models. It is included on 2015+ models.

Corvette Z06 Prop Shaft Assembly with High-Temp Couplers
The Corvette Z06's internal prop shaft includes rubber couplers designed for higher temperatures and a larger heat shield. These couplers are included with the Corvette Z06 Carbon Fiber Torque Tube and Prop Shaft Kit.

Corvette Z06 Carbon Fiber Underbody Braces*
These carbon fiber underbody braces are 17 percent lighter than the aluminum braces on the Corvette Stingray, while also offering an improvement in overall torsional stiffness. They are a direct replacement for the standard braces.

Corvette Z06 Brake Kits (Iron Rotors) for Stingray with Z51*
Designed for Stingray models equipped with the Z51 package, they feature the Z06's standard, two-piece and slotted iron rotors – measuring 14.6-in. x 1.3-in (370mm x 34mm) for the front rotors and 14.4-in. x 1-in. (365mm x 26mm) for the rear. The front kit uses aluminum monoblock six-piston calipers, while the rear kit features four-piston fixed calipers. The front calipers also feature vented pistons for improved pad and brake fluid cooling. They also offer differentiated piston diameters of 30mm, 34mm and 38mm (leading to trailing), for more even pad pressure for improved pad wear. These brakes will not fit under base Stingray or Z51 wheels. They require a minimum of 4mm wheel clearance between the outboard face of the caliper and the inner wheel spokes.

Corvette Stingray Z51 Brake Kit
Designed as an upgrade for the standard Stingray, this Z51 brake complete kit – front and rear – features slotted rotors measuring 13.6 inches (345mm) in front and 13.3 inches (338mm) in the rear. This increases the overall diameter in relation to the standard 12.6-in. (321mm) front rotors. Coupled with the new Z06/Z51 Brake Cooling Kit, this system will match the braking performance of the factory Z51 brake system.

Corvette Z06/Z51 Front Brake Cooling Kit
This kit includes brake ducts and deflectors that channel air from the front grille through the wheel wells to cool the front brakes and expel heat. On a standard Corvette Stingray, it increases airflow by 16 percent, enhancing stopping performance by reducing temperature and the chance for brake fade. For optimal performance, it should be used with the Z51 Brake Package and the Z06 Grille Kit.

Corvette Stingray T1 Suspension*
This suspension package was developed to improve the on-track handling capabilities of the Corvette Stingray, including Z51-equipped models. It includes more aggressive shocks, stiffer stabilizer bars and new lower control arms with stiffer bushings. It was developed for racing and the aggressive shocks were utilized to maintain eligibility to compete within the rules of most club racing sanctioning bodies. It is currently homologated in SCCA's Touring 1 class.

Corvette Stingray Track Day concept
Chevrolet is showcasing the new parts portfolio on the Z51-based Stingray Track Day concept vehicle, which is on display this week at the SEMA Show, in Las Vegas.
In addition to the new performance parts, the Gloss Black concept includes a unique air extractor hood with red accents on hood vent grille, mirrors and rear spoiler. Additional visual distinction comes from Carbon Flash vents and rocker extensions, along with a carbon fiber roof panel, front fascia extension and door inserts. It also features edge-lit LED turn signals.
Inside, the black cabin is outfitted with the Competition Sport seats that are optional on the Stingray, along with suede inserts on the shifter and steering wheel. A rear crossbar was added for mounting a five-point harness, while the available Performance Data Recorder captures the car's performance.
Performance is driven by the standard LT1 6.2L V-8, rated at 460 horsepower and 465 lb-ft of torque with the available exhaust system, and backed by a seven-speed manual transmission with Active Rev Match.

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Earlier this week, we introduced you the refreshed 2016 Holden Commodore lineup. Now one question that came up was if the Chevrolet SS - a rebadged version of the Commodore - would see any changes. Chevrolet has provided the answer with an announcement of an updated 2016 SS sedan.

 

Changes for the 2016 SS are mostly cosmetic with new vertical ducts to improve aerodynamics and a set of LED lighting. Finishing off the exterior are a set of functional hood vents and nineteen-inch alloy wheels. The 6.2L V8 remains unchanged with 415 horsepower and 415 pound-feet of torque. A new dual-mode exhaust comes as standard.

 

"The 2016 SS design changes more fully express the true driving character of the sedan while further enhancing the car's overall performance," said Todd Christensen, Chevrolet Performance Car marketing manager.
Source: Chevrolet

 

 

Press Release is on Page 2

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2016 Chevrolet SS Designed for Performance

 

DETROIT – Building on the performance-oriented updates made to the Chevrolet SS last year, the 2016 model features several exterior enhancements that reinforce its presence on the road.
A revised front fascia features new, vertical ducts at the outer edges to direct airflow over the front wheel openings to improve aerodynamic efficiency. The fascia also incorporates new LED signature lighting, while new, functional hood vents and new-design 19-inch cast-aluminum wheels contribute to a stronger appearance for the rear-drive sports sedan.

 

“The 2016 SS design changes more fully express the true driving character of the sedan while further enhancing the car’s overall performance,” said Todd Christensen, Chevrolet Performance Car marketing manager.
What hasn’t changed is the SS’s unique blend of performance, comfort and spaciousness. It features a 6.2L V-8 engine under the hood and turns out an SAE-certified 415 horsepower (310 kW) and 415 lb-ft of torque (563 Nm), and offers a six-speed manual transmission or a paddle-shift six-speed automatic transmission.
A new, dual-mode exhaust system for 2016 complements the V-8 engine with quieter performance at low engine speeds and a more muscular engine note at wide-open throttle.

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Chevrolet has announced pricing for the 2016 Malibu, ahead its arrival to dealers in a few weeks. The base Malibu L will start at $22,500 (includes an $875 destination charge). The price undercuts most of the midsize competitors by about $500 to $1,000. The base L includes a 1.5L turbocharged four-cylinder engine developing 160 horsepower, ten airbags, cruise control, push-button start, and a start/stop system.

 

Next up is the Malibu LS which starts at $23,995 and adds 7-inch touchscreen audio system with Chevrolet MyLink, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility, and a backup camera. The LT follows with LED daytime running lights and 8-way power driving seats for $25,895. The 2.0L turbo with 250 horsepower will be available on the LT for an extra $3,600. The top of the line Malibu Platinum will start at $31,795.

 

Pricing for the Malibu Hybrid will be announced closer to its spring launch.

 

 

Source: Chevrolet

 

Press Release is on Page 2

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Next-Gen Chevrolet Malibu Starts at $22,500

• Lower than Camry, Accord, Fusion and Altima
  

DETROIT – The 2016 Chevrolet Malibu, the most fuel-efficient, connected and technologically advanced version in the nameplate’s history – will be available with a starting suggested retail price of $22,500 for the L model.
“We’ve continued our focus on delivering on the highest levels of quality, as evidenced by recent recognitions from J.D. Power on initial quality and long-term dependability,” said Steve Majoros, director of Chevrolet cars and crossovers. “The 2016 Malibu is engineered and priced to give customers impressive value and technology that’s hard to compete with.”
For 2016, Malibu will be offered in five models, L, LS, LT, Hybrid and Premier. Standard equipment includes 10 airbags, cruise control, push-button start with passive entry and fuel-saving stop/start technology on the base 1.5L 4-cylinder engine.
The LS model, starting at $23,995, includes standard Chevrolet MyLink Radio with 7-inch diagonal color touch screen, available compatibility with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and a rear vision camera. CarPlay and Android Auto are subject to Apple and Google privacy statements and require compatible smartphone and data plans.
The starting price for the LT model is $25,895 and is projected to offer a General Motors-estimated 27 mpg city and 37 mpg highway, when equipped with the Ecotec 1.5L turbo engine with stop/start. Official EPA estimates are not yet available. The LT model adds LED daytime running lamps and 8-way power driving seats.
A 2.0L turbo with an 8-speed transmission is available in the LT and Premier models as well, starting at $29,495 and $31,795 respectively. Malibu 2.0T models offer a GM-estimated 22 mpg in the city and 32 on the highway. Official EPA estimates are not yet available.
The 2016 Malibu adds several new-to-Malibu safety technologies including Lane Keep Assist, Front Pedestrian Braking and Low Speed Front Automatic Braking. Teen Driver – available on LT and standard on Premier trims – helps support safe driving habits by muting the audio or any device paired with the vehicle when front-seat occupants aren’t wearing their seat belts. It is also the first in-vehicle system in the industry that lets parents view information on how their teenagers drove the vehicle, which can be a teaching tool to reinforce safe driving habits.
Longer and lighter, the new Malibu offers more rear interior space than the current model. Its wheelbase has been stretched nearly four inches, and it is nearly 300 pounds lighter than the previous model, to assist with handling and fuel economy.
The 2016 Malibu reaches an exceptional level of fuel efficiency with an all-new, available hybrid powertrain that uses technology from the Chevrolet Volt. It helps offer a GM-estimated 48 mpg city, 45 mpg highway – and 47 mpg combined, which is unsurpassed in the segment. Official EPA estimates are not yet available.
Pricing for the Malibu Hybrid will be announced closer to its start of production in spring 2016.

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After doing a few special edition models for the Silverado, Chevrolet has decided to do some as well for the Colorado.

 

First up is the Colorado Midnight edition. Following in the footsteps of the larger Silverado Midnight edition, the Colorado Midnight boasts a grille, bowtie, and 18-inch wheels draped in black. Other changes for the Midnight include spray-in bedliner, tonneau cover, and unique sill plates. This special edition won't be limited to one cab and engine configuration. You'll be able to get this package on any cab configuration, along with engine and the choice of either two or four-wheel drive.

 

Next is the Trail Boss which is available on the Z71 trim. The Trail Boss boasts LED trail lighting and aggressive Goodyear Wrangler DuraTec tires to amp up its off-road character. There is also 17-inch wheels, newly flared fenders, side steps, and a spray-in bedliner. Like the Midnight edition, the Trail Boss can be configured with your choice of cab, engine, and drivetrain.

 

"These are aggressive editions of one of the country's hottest-selling truck, demonstrating the personalization that's possible with Chevrolet accessories, whether it's for the street, trail or both. As the Colorado continues to win over new customers, the new Midnight Edition and Z71 Trail Boss give them more choices and build on segment-leading capabilities and efficiency," said Tony Johnson, Colorado marketing manager.

 

Both special editions will be arriving at dealers this fall.

 

Source: Chevrolet

 

Press Release is on Page 2

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2016 Chevy Colorado Special Models Dressed to Impress

• Midnight Edition, Z71 Trail Boss complement capability with customized style
  

DETROIT – On the street or on the trail, the 2016 Chevrolet Colorado’s Midnight Edition and Z71 Trail Boss bring bolder choices to customers looking to make a visual statement with their truck.
The special editions roll into Chevrolet dealerships this fall, with distinctly tailored appearances that blend custom design cues with Colorado’s popular options and accessories. The Midnight Edition evokes the aesthetic of an urban tuner vehicle, while the Z71 Trail Boss is designed for terrain where the pavement ends.
“These are aggressive editions of one of the country’s hottest-selling truck, demonstrating the personalization that’s possible with Chevrolet accessories, whether it’s for the street, trail or both,” said Tony Johnson, Colorado marketing manager. “As the Colorado continues to win over new customers, the new Midnight Edition and Z71 Trail Boss give them more choices and build on segment-leading capabilities and efficiency.”
Colorado Midnight Edition
Echoing the blacked-out design theme introduced on the popular Silverado Midnight Edition, the 2016 Colorado Midnight Edition casts an imposing stance. Offered exclusively in black, additional exterior details such as the grille, the bowtie emblem and the 18-inch aluminum wheels are also finished in black.

 

Additional content includes a spray-on bedliner and soft, folding tonneau cover – both in black, of course – and Chevrolet-logo sill plates.

 

The Colorado Midnight Edition is available on LT models with the extended and crew cab bodies, in 2WD or 4WD, and with the 2.5L and 3.6L engines. It will also be available with the all-new 2.8L Duramax turbo-diesel engine. Pricing will be announced later.

 

Colorado Z71 Trail BossThe 2016 Colorado Z71 Trail Boss builds on the capability of Chevrolet’s Z71 off-road truck suspension package with more aggressive tires and off-road-inspired appearance enhancements.
An all-new sport bar with LED trail lighting makes the new edition of the Trail Boss instantly identifiable. It’s complemented by black-finished 17-inch aluminum wheels matched with aggressive Goodyear Wrangler DuraTec® 265/65R17 all-terrain tires, bold fender flares and tubular assist steps. It also features a black bowtie grille emblem and a spray-on bedliner, and a set of all-weather floor mats inside the truck.
The Colorado Z71 Trail Boss is available on Z71 models with the extended and crew cab bodies, and in 2WD or 4WD. Like the Midnight Edition, it will also be available with the 2.5L and 3.6L engines, as well as the 2.8L Duramax diesel. Pricing will be announced later.

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Today, Chevrolet and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) have released the numbers for the 2016 Volt and they are noticeably better than the outgoing model.

 

The EPA rates the Volt at 106 Miles Per Gallon Equivalent (MPGe) combined when operating solely on electricity, and 42 MPG combined when the gas engine is running. To put this into perspective, the current Volt gets 98 MPGe when running on electricity and 39 MPG combined when the gas engine is running.

 

Overall electric range has seen a big jump as well with the 2016 Volt. The EPA says the model will deliver 53 Miles of range on electric power alone. That is a huge increase compared to the 39 Miles of total electric range on the current Volt.

 

“We listened to our customers. They were very clear when they told us that they wanted more range, and a fun driving experience behind the wheel. We are confident that the 2016 Volt delivers both,” said Andrew Farah, vehicle chief engineer for the Volt.

 

Source: Chevrolet

 

Press Release is on Page 2

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The Results Are In: More Range for the 2016 Volt

• EPA-estimated pure electric range is 53 miles
  

DETROIT – The 2016 Volt is engineered to offer customers more of what they want: range, range and more range.
The Volt’s all-new second-generation Voltec extended-range electric propulsion system delivers 53 miles of pure EV range, based on EPA testing. That is nearly a 40-percent improvement over the first-generation Volt.
Chevrolet expects many next-generation Volt owners will use power solely from their batteries for more than 90 percent of trips. Today, Volt owners use battery power on 80 percent of their trips.
This means the average Volt owner could expect to travel well over 1,000 miles between gas fill ups, if they charge regularly.
For the first 53 miles, the Volt can drive gas and tailpipe-emissions free using a full charge of electricity stored in its new 18.4-kWh lithium-ion battery, rated at a combined 106 MPGe, or gasoline equivalent. When the Volt’s battery runs low, a gas-powered generator seamlessly operates to extend the driving range for a total of 420 miles on a full tank.
“We listened to our customers,” said Andrew Farah, vehicle chief engineer, “They were very clear when they told us that they wanted more range, and a fun driving experience behind the wheel. We are confident that the 2016 Volt delivers both.”
The next-generation Volt’s new 1.5L range-extender, designed to use regular unleaded fuel, offers a combined EPA-estimated fuel efficiency of 42 MPG.
Data shows that drivers of the first-generation Volt achieved, and often exceeded, the published EPA-estimated mileage. Chevrolet expects the same label-exceeding result with the next-generation Volt.

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We have been waiting a long time for numbers to be released on Chevrolet Colorado Duramax Diesel and Chevrolet has released some of those numbers today.

 

Let us begin with power ratings. The 2.8L Duramax turbodiesel four-cylinder will pack 181 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. This engine will come with a six-speed automatic and automatic-locking rear differential as standard equipment.

 

Next is tow ratings. The Colorado Duramax can tow up to 7,770 pounds for the two-wheel drive model, while the four-wheel drive model sees its tow rating drop to around 7,600 pounds. All Duramax equipped models get the Z82 trailering package as standard.

 

One item that Chevrolet hasn't revealed at this time is fuel economy numbers.

 

As for pricing, the Duramax option will only be available on the LT and Z71 Crew Cabs and carry a $3,730 premium. That means the base price for the Colorado Duramax will be $31,715.

 

Source: Chevrolet

 

Press Release is on Page 2

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Chevrolet Introduces Colorado Duramax Diesel

• All-new turbo-diesel expands lineup with unparalleled capability, efficiency
  

DETROIT – The fastest-selling truck in the market now offers an available turbo-diesel engine. The 2016 Chevrolet Colorado Duramax diesel takes midsize truck capability and efficiency to unprecedented levels.

 

With 369 lb-ft of torque (500 Nm) generated by its all-new 2.8L Duramax turbo-diesel, the Colorado’s maximum trailering capacity rises to 7,700 pounds (3,492 kg) on 2WD models, with estimated fuel economy projected to top the already segment-leading efficiency of the gas models.

 

It is also the cleanest diesel truck engine ever produced by General Motors.

 

“Simply put, there’s no other midsize truck that can do what Colorado can with its all-new Duramax diesel,” said Sandor Piszar, director of Chevrolet Truck Marketing. “Along with greater capability and efficiency, it expands the Colorado lineup to give customers more choices and the capability of exploring more possibilities on and off the road.”

 

The new Colorado diesel goes on sales this fall, offered in LT and Z71 Crew Cab models, with 2WD or 4WD. It is priced $3,730 more than a comparably equipped 3.6L V-6 model.

 

Features included with or exclusive to Colorado diesel models:

• Smart diesel exhaust brake system that enhances vehicle control and reduces brake wear on steep grades
• Standard Hydra-Matic 6L50 six-speed automatic transmission matched with a Centrifugal Pendulum Vibration Absorber (CPVA) in the torque converter, which reduces powertrain noise and vibration
• The Z82 trailering package is standard and includes a hitch receiver and seven-pin connector
• An all-new integrated trailer brake controller is standard and exclusive on diesel models
• The G80 automatic locking rear differential is standard
• A 3.42 rear axle ratio is standard
• A new, electronically controlled two-speed transfer case is included on 4WD models
• Maximum trailering rating of 7,700 pounds (3,492 kg) for 2WD models and 7,600 pounds (3,447 kg) for 4WD
• GVWRs of 6,000 pounds (2,721 kg) for 2WD and 6,200 pounds (2,812 kg) for 4WD
  

“A diesel engine was part of the Colorado’s portfolio plan from the very beginning, meaning the chassis, suspension and other elements of its architecture were engineered to support its capability,” said Scott Yackley, assistant chief engineer. “That means there are no compromises with the Colorado diesel. It offers exceptional capability delivered with a confident feeling of control.”

 

Colorado’s award-winning combination of refinement, maneuverability and connectivity complements the diesel’s capability, with segment-exclusive features such as Chevy MyLink with phone integration technology – and compatibility with Apple CarPlay – OnStar 4G LTE with Wi-Fi hotspot, Lane Departure Warning and Forward Collision Alert.

 

Colorado’s innovative solutions for hauling and accessing cargo include a standard CornerStep rear bumper, EZ Lift-and-Lower tailgate (standard on Z71 and available on LT), two-tier loading in the cargo bed, 13 standard moveable tie-down locations throughout the bed, an available, factory-installed spray-in bed liner and a line of available GearOn accessories.

 

Inside the new 2.8L Duramax turbo-diesel
Colorado’s new 2.8L Duramax turbo-diesel is part of GM’s global family of turbo-diesel four-cylinder engines designed to deliver value, capability and efficiency. It features a variable-geometry turbocharger for optimal power and efficiency across the rpm band and a balance shaft for greater smoothness.

 

Power is SAE-certified at 181 horsepower (135 kW) at 3,400 rpm and 369 lb-ft of torque (500 Nm) at 2,000 rpm. A broad torque band makes it very powerful at low rpm, while the turbocharged performance provides a confident feeling of immediate and smooth horsepower on demand.

 

“It is a no-compromise turbocharged engine that is also really fun to drive, with excellent responsiveness,” said Yackley. “It was also designed specifically for trucks and has undergone many of the same validation tests as the 6.6L Duramax, contributing to legendary Duramax durability and reliability.”

 

Additional engine features:

• Iron cylinder block and aluminum DOHC cylinder head
• Forged steel crankshaft and connecting rods
• Oiling circuit that includes a dedicated feed for the turbocharger to provide increased pressure at the turbo and faster oil delivery
• Piston-cooling oil jets
• 16.5:1 compression ratio
• Common rail direct injection fuel system
• Ceramic glow plugs for shorter heat-up times and higher glow temperatures
• Balance shaft that contributes to smoothness and drives the oil pump
• Laminated steel oil pan with upper aluminum section that contributes to engine rigidity and quietness
• B20 bio-diesel capability
  

The Duramax 2.8L is the cleanest diesel truck engine ever produced by General Motors, and meets some of the toughest U.S. emissions standards, thanks in part to a cooled exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system.

 

The cooled EGR contributes to lower emissions by diverting some of the engine-out exhaust gas and mixing it back into the fresh intake air stream, which is drawn into the cylinder head for combustion. That lowers combustion temperatures and rates, improving emissions performance by reducing the formation of NOx.

 

Controlling noise and vibration with the CPVA
To control vibration and noise inside Colorado, engineers integrated a device called the Centrifugal Pendulum Vibration Absorber (CPVA) in the torque converter used with the standard Hydra-Matic 6L50 six-speed automatic transmission. It marks the first application of a CPVA in a GM vehicle and the first time it has been used in the midsize truck segment.

 

The CPVA is an absorbing damper with a set of secondary spring masses, that — when energized — cancels out the engine’s torsional vibrations so the driver and passengers can’t feel them. In its unique design, the spring masses vibrate in the opposite direction of the torsional vibrations of the engine, balancing out undesirable torsional vibrations.

 

Smart exhaust brake details
The Colorado’s integrated, driver-selectable exhaust brake system is based on the system introduced on the 2015 Silverado HD models and uses the compression power of the 2.8L Duramax engine to improve vehicle control and reduce brake pad wear.

 

When the exhaust brake is engaged in cruise mode, exhaust cruise grade braking will help the cruise control system maintain the desired vehicle speed when travelling downhill, keeping the driver from having to apply the brakes and exit cruise control to maintain speed.

 

When the exhaust brake is engaged in non-cruise mode, the transmission and the exhaust brake deliver the correct amount of braking to assist in vehicle control, regardless of vehicle load. It is a smart system that varies the amount of brakes needed for the vehicle, load and grade. The engagement of the system is smooth and quiet, while its performance enhances the driver’s feeling of control.

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Two years from Chevrolet's introduction of the latest-generation Silverado, the company has unveiled the facelifted 2016 model.

 

The big change is up front where Chevrolet designers transformed the clip. A new body-color strip across the middle of the grille is paired with new headlights. Higher trim models such as the Z71 get dual strands of LEDs. There is also new bumper and hood. At this time, we don't know what lower-tier models look like or even the rest of the truck.

 

There is some good news as Chevrolet says the 8-speed automatic transmission will be expanded, but no mention as to what engines. The 5.3L V8 is a likely model. Also coming is a new version of Chevrolet's MyLink infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and AndroidAuto integration.

 

The 2016 Silverado is expected to arrive in this fall.

 

Source: Chevrolet

 

 

Press Release is on Page 2

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2016 Silverado: The New Face of Strong

• Bolder, more sculpted look reflects Silverado strength, dependability
• Available support for Android Auto and Apple CarPlay
• Expanded use of 8-speed transmissions; additional safety technologies
  

DETROIT – Chevy Trucks are on a roll, with Chevrolet pickup sales up 32 percent so far this year. Chevrolet intends to strengthen this momentum with significant updates for the 2016 Silverado 1500 full-size pickup.

 

“The redesigned 2016 Silverado will build on Chevy Trucks’ legacy of dependability. It will feature a more muscular appearance and offer new customer-focused technologies,” said Sandor Piszar, marketing director for Chevy Trucks.

 

“New front end designs with bold horizontal elements, sculpted hoods and dramatic lighting reflect the strength and refinement that have helped make Silverado the fastest growing full-size pickup brand this year.”

 

Other changes for 2016 will include expanded use of 8-speed automatic transmissions, updated Chevy MyLink with support for Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, and additional safety technologies.

 

The redesign of the 2016 Silverado 1500 is part of an aggressive strategy to build on Chevy Trucks’ momentum.

 

Since the introduction of the all-new Silverado 1500 in the spring of 2013, Silverado sales have grown by double digits, on a percentage basis, each year. Through June of this year, Silverado sales are up 14.6 percent. Chevrolet also sold 41,575 midsize Colorados during the same period.

 

More product details will be available this fall, closer to the public debut of the redesigned 2016 Silverado 1500.

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This evening at a event in Detroit, Chevrolet unveiled the second-generation Cruze.

 

The new Cruze looks like a shrunken-down version of the Malibu with similar profiles. There is a reason to this as Cruze was styled only a few feet away from the new Malibu. The Cruze features such details as a lower front end, mesh grilles, and distinctive character lines. Size-wise, the Cruze is slightly larger than current model with overall length up 2.7 inches (183.7 inches vs. 181 inches) and the wheelbase is up 0.6 inches (106.3 inches vs. 105.7 inches).

 

The interior has been updated with more soft-touch materials, and the latest version of Chevrolet's MyLink which offers compatibility with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Rear legroom is increased to 36.4 inches, but worryingly headroom sees a slight decrease by half an inch.

 

Power for the Cruze comes from all-new turbocharged 1.4L four-cylinder with 153 horsepower and 177 pound-feet of torque. A choice of either a manual or automatic, both six-speeds, helps get the power to the front wheels. Chevrolet has also cut a bit of weight out of the Cruze - 250 lbs to be exact, which allows the Cruze to achieve 40 MPG on the highway and a total range of 530 Miles. There is also a diesel option coming, but not until 2017.

 

The 2016 Cruze arrives at Chevrolet dealers early next year.

 

Source: Chevrolet

 

 

Press Release is on Page 2

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Sophisticated Sophomore: All-New 2016 Chevrolet Cruze

• Larger and lighter; all-new compact car is more agile with a dynamic driving experience
• All-new, standard 1.4L turbo engine with direct injection offers a GM-estimated 40 mpg highway; stop/start technology contributes to efficiency in stop-and-go driving
• New Chevrolet MyLink offers better performance, plus compatibility with both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, for smart, simple smartphone integration
• Advanced safety features include Side Blind Zone Alert, Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, Lane Keep Assist and Forward Collision Alert
• On sale in the U.S. in early 2016; diesel model follows in 2017
  

DETROIT – Chevrolet today introduced the all-new 2016 Cruze – a larger and lighter, more efficient and more sophisticated evolution of the brand’s best-selling global car.

 

Packed with new technologies such as available Android Auto, Apple CarPlay and new active safety features, as well as a more spacious interior and an athletic, aerodynamically optimized design, the 2016 Cruze elevates the compact car segment – from San Francisco to Shanghai and from Boston to Buenos Aeries.

 

It will be offered in more than 40 global markets and goes on sale first in North America in early 2016. A new, standard 1.4L turbocharged engine with direct injection and an SAE-certified 153 horsepower (113 kW) helps enable a General Motors-estimated 40 mpg on the highway with the available six-speed automatic transmission. Stop/start technology helps enhance the Cruze’s efficiency in stop-and-go driving.

 

The new turbo engine and a leaner architecture that reduces up to 250 pounds (113 kg) also contribute to the new Cruze’s stronger performance, with expected 0-60-mph acceleration of eight seconds.

 

“The 2016 Cruze builds on a very successful program that introduced Chevrolet to new customers the world over,” said Alan Batey, president, General Motors North America. “We retained all the attributes that made the original Cruze a hit around the globe and built on them to make this car more sophisticated, more fun and more Chevrolet.”

 

Vehicle highlights include:

• Next-generation Chevrolet MyLink with smartphone integration capability, including a standard seven-inch-diagonal screen and available eight-inch-diagonal screen (at launch, eight-inch screen only with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto coming later)
• New 1.4L turbo engine with direct injection and stop/start technology matched with a standard six-speed manual or available six-speed automatic transmission (North America)
• Maximum highway range of 530 miles per tank
• All-new, stronger and lighter body structure enhances agility, efficiency and safety – with an approximately 250-pound (113 kg) lower curb weight
• Class-leading 106.3-inch (2,700 mm) wheelbase enhances roominess, contributing to greater rear-seat legroom and more rear knee room
• Projector headlamps with light-emitting diode (LED) signature lighting – and LED daytime running lamps on uplevel models
• More standard features than most competitors’ small cars such as 10 air bags, four-wheel disc brakes, rearview camera and available OnStar 4G LTE with Wi-Fi hotspot
• New, available features including wireless phone charging, heated rear leather seats and heated, leather-wrapped steering wheel
• Available advanced safety features include Side Blind Zone Alert, Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, Lane Keep Assist and Forward Collision Alert
• New model range for North America including L, LS, LT and Premier – and a more expressive RS package.
  

“The new Cruze is truly one of Chevrolet’s most global vehicles,” said Batey. “With content variations dictated mostly by local market demands, customers in every corner of the globe will enjoy the same fundamental dynamics that are making Chevrolet one of the fastest-growing brands around the world.”

 

In 2017, Chevrolet will introduce a new diesel model for U.S. customers that builds on the success of the current Cruze diesel model.

 

Wind tunnel-optimized design
The 2016 Cruze’s expressive design balances the designers’ inspiration and the efficiency-optimizing input of wind tunnel testing – leveraging the aero experience of vehicles including the Volt. The result is one of the sleekest-looking cars in the class, with a 0.29 coefficient of drag – an attribute that contributes directly to a GM-estimated 40 mpg on the highway.

 

Proportionally, the new Cruze is 2.7 inches (68 mm) longer and nearly an inch (25 mm) shorter in height than the current model, giving it a longer and leaner appearance. A faster windshield rake and a faster-sloping rear profile lend a sportier look to the design, while the rear profile culminates in a standard integral rear spoiler that contributes to the car’s aero efficiency.

 

The sleek profile is complemented by detailed, layered line work in the hood and body-side panels, contributing to an overall impression of muscularity – with an athletic stance enhanced by a longer wheelbase.

 

“With styling influenced by the acclaimed 2014 Impala and all new Malibu, the 2016 Cruze brings Chevrolet’s new, expressive global design language to the small car segment,” said John Cafaro, executive director, Chevrolet Design. “The Cruze’s approach to proportion and premium details adds to Chevrolet’s elevation of craftsmanship, content, quality and a fresh interpretation of an identity that is unmistakably Chevrolet in every market around the world.”

 

The headlamps sweep back into the front fenders and an expressive, stacked dual-port grille design offers upscale attention to detail. LT and Premier models feature premium forward lighting systems, including projector-beam headlamps and LED signature daytime running lamps.

 

Additional design details include:

• The center-rear stop lamp is mounted at the top of the roof line for a more refined appearance
• Seamless rocker panels convey upscale attention to detail and contribute to aerodynamic performance
• Polished aluminum, piano black and bright-finished accents provide a more contemporary, upscale aura to the design
• The RS package includes unique grilles, front and rear fascias, fog lamps, front splitter, rocker panels, rear spoiler and 18-inch wheels on the Premier model.
  

Roomier, more-connected passenger space
With greater spaciousness and technology, the 2016 Cruze’s interior is designed to be more comfortable and a better connected environment for the driver and passengers.

 

The greater spaciousness includes more rear legroom (36.1 inches / 917 mm) and two inches (51 mm) more rear knee room – more than Ford Focus and Hyundai Elantra. Beyond the quantifiable, there’s greater perceptual spaciousness in the new Cruze, driven by flowing line work in the instrument panel, which blends almost seamlessly with the front door panels.

 

Like the exterior, the Cruze’s interior – and the instrument panel in particular – feature lean, muscular and layered surfaces built around the Chevrolet-signature dual-cockpit theme. It’s a thoroughly modern design that emphasizes human-technology interaction through the prominent, standard MyLink screen in the “center stack.”

 

A mixture of accents, from piano black and matte black finishes to bright trim, along with more premium features such as available heated rear leather seats and wireless phone charging, complement the cabin with an upscale ambience generally reserved for midsize sedans – but one that is becoming increasingly important to customers around the globe who want premium amenities in smaller vehicles.

 

Additional interior features and amenities include:

• Unique center console design for North America with specific user interface details such as a repositioned shifter, more intuitive positioning of the cup holders and enhanced storage
• More soft-touch surfaces and animal-grained, micro-etched surfacing that enhance the premium look and feel of the interior, as well as premium fabrics with French stitching, distinctive for its contrasting stitch colors. Premium leather is available
• 4.2-inch-diagonal high-resolution driver information center in the gauge cluster
• Premium features including heated front cloth seats, heated rear leather-trimmed seats, and heated and leather-wrapped steering wheel.
  

Through smartphone integration, Cruze’s all-new Chevrolet MyLink infotainment system provides simple and intuitive use of smartphones in the vehicle. It integrates certain phone functions onto the Cruze’s seven-inch-diagonal color touchscreen, allowing them to call up music, navigation apps and more. An uplevel MyLink radio with an eight-inch display and navigation is available and also incorporates Apple CarPlay.

 

Apple CarPlay takes the iPhone features owners want to access while driving and puts them on the vehicle’s display in a smart, simple manner. This allows drivers to make calls, send and receive messages and listen to music right from the touchscreen or by voice via Siri. Apple CarPlay-supported apps include Phone, Messages, Maps, Music and compatible third-party apps. A full list of those apps can be found at Apple.com/ios/carplay. Apple CarPlay is compatible with iOS 7.1 or higher.

 

Android Auto is built around Google Maps, Google Now and the ability to talk to Google, as well as a growing audio and messaging app ecosystem that includes WhatsApp, Skype, Google Play Music, Spotify and podcast players. A full list of supported apps is available at g.co/androidauto. Android Auto requires a phone running an Android Lollipop 5.0 operating system or higher.

 

Using both applications is simple. A “Projection” icon on the MyLink screen is visible when a phone is not connected, then changes to indicate CarPlay or Android Auto when a compatible phone is connected via USB.

 

Compatible apps need to be downloaded to a phone before using. Apple and Google’s privacy statements and terms of use apply. Data plan rates may also apply.

 

Complementing MyLink to enhance Cruze’s connectivity is available OnStar with 4G LTE and built-in Wi-Fi hotspot.

 

Larger, lighter and more dynamic
An all-new, more rigid and lighter architecture is the 2016 Cruze’s foundation for driving dynamism, while also playing significant roles in safety and efficiency. It is constructed of about 8-percent hot-stamped/high-strength steels, which contributes to an approximately 27-percent stiffer body structure that is also 53 pounds (24 kg) lighter than the current Cruze.

 

The lighter structure is also larger than the current model, with the new Cruze’s 106.3-inch (2,700 mm) wheelbase stretching nearly an inch longer, while supporting front and rear suspensions with wide tracks (60.8-inch front/61.3-inch rear). Aluminum is used strategically in the suspension systems to optimize weight and handling characteristics.

 

“The Cruze’s chassis system is perhaps the most mass-efficient in the segment,” said Ron Arnesen, executive chief engineer. “It is at the core of the car’s dynamic driving character, which is designed to deliver fun with an enhanced feeling of connectivity.”

 

Additionally, the new, more rigid architecture is the primary enabler for exceptional chassis tuning, affording more nimble and direct steering and handling attributes that foster driving confidence through precision. The longer wheelbase and wide front and rear tracks further contribute to a lower, wide “footprint,” which enhances agility and the feeling of control.

 

Additional features include:

• A proven MacPherson strut front suspension design with specially tuned bushings and geometry intended to balance handling with comfort
• A torsion beam rear axle on L, LS and LT models; and an enhanced Z-link design on Premier. It helps deliver a more balanced driving experience, as the rear suspension better follows the lead of the front suspension
• Rack-mounted electric power steering is standard on all models. It enhances efficiency because it removes the conventional power steering pump from the engine’s driven accessories
• Four-wheel disc brakes with Duralife longer-life rotors are standard on all models
• StabiliTrak electronic stability control, with traction control, rollover mitigation and anti-lock brakes, is standard
• Wheel sizes ranging from 15 to 18 inches.
  

Power-dense, efficient turbocharged powertrain
In North America, the 2016 Cruze is driven by an all-new, standard 1.4L turbocharged engine derived from GM’s new family of small gas engines. It features direct injection, stop/start technology and is matched with a standard six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic transmission. Stop/start technology helps enhance efficiency in stop-and-go driving.

 

The new 1.4L turbo is SAE-certified at 153 horsepower (113 kW) and 177 lb-ft of torque (240 Nm). With more torque than the current Cruze’s 1.4L turbo and a lighter architecture, the new turbocharged engine is expected to deliver segment-best 0-60 performance of 8 seconds. That makes the new Cruze quicker than most competitors, while also beating most of them at the gas pump, with a GM-estimated 40 mpg on the highway with automatic transmission.

 

The 1.4L turbo features an aluminum cylinder block and head, which helps reduce the Cruze’s overall weight to enhance performance and efficiency. Engine efficiency is also enhanced through reduced friction, including low-friction piston rings, a low-friction camshaft drive and a low-friction oil pump.

 

The start/stop feature automatically shuts down the engine when the car comes to a stop under certain driving conditions, such as a stoplight. The engine automatically restarts when the driver takes his or her foot off the brake.

 

Advanced safety features
The 2016 Cruze’s safety story begins with the new, stronger body structure that incorporates high-strength steel in key areas to enhance strength and crash protection by helping to prevent intrusion into passenger compartment.

 

Cruze also returns with a segment-leading 10 standard air bags, including frontal driver and passenger air bags, roof rail-mounted head curtain side air bags that help protect the front and outboard rear seating positions; seat-mounted side-impact air bags (front and rear); and front knee air bags.

 

Available safety features include an expanded range of crash-avoidance technologies, including Side Blind Zone Alert, Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, Lane Keep Assist and Forward Collision Alert.

 

Additional safety features include:

• Front passenger seat occupant sensing system and rollover sensing and protection system
• Collapsible pedal assembly to help protect against lower-extremity injuries
• Three-point safety belts in all five seating positions, safety belt retractor pretensioners and lap pretensioners in the driver and front-passenger positions, and safety belt load limiters (with pretensioners) in the front safety belt retractors
• LATCH child seat latching system in the rear seat
• Tire pressure monitoring system, daytime running lamps
• Automatic headlamps.
  

Manufacturing
For the United States, the 2016 Chevrolet Cruze will be built at GM’s Lordstown, Ohio assembly plant, with locally and globally sourced components. The plant received a $50-million investment in tooling and other enhancements to support the new Cruze’s production.

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This morning at a event in Detroit, Chevrolet introduced the 2016 Camaro Convertible.

 

The Convertible's basic shape is mostly the same as the coupe that was shown last month. The difference comes in the roof. For the 2016 model, Chevrolet has introduced a fully-automatic top that can be raised or lowered within 30 seconds at speeds up to 30 MPH. The top also boasts acoustic sound-dampening material and thermal barriers to help make the Camaro Convertible a little bit easier to live with.

 

Engines for the Camaro Convertible are the same as the coupe:

• Turbocharged 2.0L Four-Cylinder with 275 HP
• 3.6L V6 with 355 HP
• 6.2L V8 with 455 HP
  

All engines come with the choice of a six-speed manual or eight-speed automatic. The convertible is also a bit stiffer and 200 pounds lighter than the model it replaces.

 

“From the beginning, the Camaro’s architecture was developed to incorporate a convertible with uncompromised driving dynamics. Customers will appreciate what they don’t feel: quivers, cowl shake or an under-damped chassis typically found in a four-seat convertible,” said Al Oppenheiser, Camaro chief engineer.

 

The Camaro Convertible arrives in the first quarter of next year.

 

Source: Chevrolet

 

 

Press Release is on Page 2

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Chevrolet Lifts Lid on 2016 Camaro Convertible

• Segment’s most advanced top is fully automatic, with refined appearance
  

DETROIT – Let the sun shine in. Chevrolet will offer a convertible model of the all-new 2016 Camaro, featuring the segment’s most advanced top.
The 2016 Camaro is the only convertible in the segment to offer all of the following:

• Fully automatic operation with latches that automatically release and secure the top
• Capability of opening or closing at speeds up to 30 mph
• Remote opening with the key fob
• A hard tonneau cover that deploys automatically, providing a more refined, finished appearance when the top is lowered and stowed.
  

The electro-hydraulic power roof system features multilayer construction – including acoustic and thermal barriers – designed for a comfortable, quiet driving experience in all seasons. The top emulates the sleek silhouette of the Camaro coupe.
“The 2016 Camaro coupe will set the benchmark for the segment in terms of technology, performance and design,” said Todd Christensen, Camaro marketing manager. “Adding the most sophisticated top in the segment brings another level of refinement – and driving enjoyment – to the Camaro convertible.”
The new Camaro convertible arrives in early 2016.
Like the Camaro coupe, the convertible benefits from a stiffer, lighter structure that helps reduce total vehicle weight by at least 200 pounds compared to the model it replaces. Consequently, the Camaro convertible retains the coupe’s sharp chassis tuning and nimble reflexes.
“From the beginning, the Camaro’s architecture was developed to incorporate a convertible with uncompromised driving dynamics,” said Al Oppenheiser, Camaro chief engineer. “Customers will appreciate what they don’t feel: quivers, cowl shake or an under-damped chassis typically found in a four-seat convertible.”
The architecture also enables the Camaro convertible’s sleek design, allowing the top to fold down completely beneath the belt line. The hard tonneau cover automatically covers the folded top, creating a finished appearance.
“With many convertibles, you have to affix a tonneau cover manually – if it’s done at all,” said Tom Peters, design director. “The Camaro convertible’s automatically deploying hard tonneau not only makes it easier to enjoy convertible driving when the inspiration hits, it ensures the car always looks its best.”
About the 2016 Camaro
The sixth-generation Chevrolet Camaro offers higher levels of performance, technology and refinement and is designed to maintain the sporty car segment leadership earned over the past five years.
Offered in LT and SS models, it provides a faster, more nimble driving experience and a broader powertrain range.
Six all-new powertrain combinations are offered, including a 2.0L Turbo rated at an SAE-certified 275 horsepower, an all-new 3.6L V-6 producing and SAE-certified 335 horsepower, and the LT1 6.2L V-8, which is SAE-certified at 455 horsepower and 455 lb-ft of torque – the most powerful Camaro SS ever. Each engine is available with a six-speed manual or eight-speed automatic transmission.

 

Camaro’s leaner, stiffer platform and slightly smaller dimensions are accentuated by a dramatic, sculpted exterior. Meticulously tuned in the wind tunnel, the exterior contributes to performance through reduced aerodynamic lift for better handling, while enhancing highway fuel efficiency.

 

Inside, the driver-focused cabin integrates class-leading control technologies, including a new Driver Mode Selector, configurable instrument cluster and a customizable ambient lighting feature.

 

The 2016 Camaro coupe and convertible will be produced at General Motors’ Lansing Grand River assembly plant in Lansing, Mich.

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The age of the connected car is here as General Motors announced that 14 vehicles from Chevrolet's 2016 lineup will offer Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility through the MyLink infotainment system. This means GM is one of the first automakers to offer both systems, giving owners a relief when it comes to choosing one over the other.

 

“For most of us, our smartphones are essential. Partnering with Apple and Google to offer CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility across the widest range of models in the industry is a great example of how Chevrolet continues to democratize technology that’s important to our customers,” said Mary Barra, CEO of General Motors.

 

There will be two variants of the MyLink system available for vehicles - a seven and eight-inch screen. GM notes that for now, the eight-inch screen version only works with Apple's CarPlay. Android Auto support will come in the future.

 

Chevrolet says support for both systems will begin rolling out later this year.

 

Source: Chevrolet

 

Press Release is on Page 2

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Chevrolet is Global Leader for Android Auto, Apple CarPlay

• All-new 2016 Cruze is one of 14 Chevrolet models to offer compatibility
  

LOS ANGELES – According to Strategy Analytics, there are more than 2.3 billion smartphones in use globally, and that number continues to rise. And on the road, customers are demanding better integration between phones and their vehicles. Whether they have an Apple or Android phone, Chevrolet is committed to providing the smartest, simplest connected driving experience possible to owners across the globe.
For the 2016 model year, Chevrolet will offer Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility in more models than any automotive brand. The 14 Chevrolet models include the all-new 2016 Cruze compact car, which will debut on June 24. Cruze is Chevrolet’s best-selling passenger car, with more than 3 million sold since launch. Additional models are listed in a chart below.
“For most of us, our smartphones are essential,” said Mary Barra, CEO of General Motors. “Partnering with Apple and Google to offer CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility across the widest range of models in the industry is a great example of how Chevrolet continues to democratize technology that’s important to our customers.”
Chevrolet’s seven-inch MyLink infotainment system gives owners a smart and simple way to access both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. The eight-inch version of MyLink will be compatible only with Apple CarPlay at the beginning of the 2016 model year. While development and testing is not yet complete, Android Auto compatibility may be available on the eight-inch version of MyLink later in the 2016 model year.
Each system builds off of the features smartphone users rely on most. Android Auto is built around Google Maps, Google Now and the ability to talk to Google, as well as a growing audio and messaging app ecosystem that includes WhatsApp, Skype, Google Play Music, Spotify, and podcast players. A full list of supported apps is available at Android.com/auto.
Apple CarPlay takes the iPhone features you’d want to access while driving and puts them on the vehicle’s display in a smart, simple manner. That allows drivers to make calls, send and receive messages and listen to music right from the touchscreen or by voice via Siri. Apple CarPlay supported apps include Phone, Messages, Maps, Music and compatible third-party apps. A full list of those apps can be found at Apple.com/ios/carplay.
Many features can be controlled via voice commands through a button on the steering wheel, helping drivers spend more time with eyes on the road and hands on the wheel.
Chevrolet has a strong track record when it comes to broad availability of customer-centric innovation as the first brand to introduce Siri Eyes Free functionality and the first and only car company to offer available OnStar 4G LTE connectivity across a range of cars, trucks and crossovers in the U.S. and Canada. In less than one year, Chevrolet has connected more than a half-million customers to high-speed 4G LTE Wi-Fi.
Chevrolet customers in markets around the world including Brazil, Mexico and Canada will benefit from this new level of smartphone integration. Specific market availability for Android Auto can be found here. Current Apple CarPlay markets can be found here.
In 2014, the 14 models included in this rollout accounted for more than 2.4 million vehicle sales, or 51 percent of Chevrolet’s total global sales.
Using either application is simple in a compatible 2016 Chevrolet. A “Projection” icon on the MyLink screen is visible when a phone is not connected, then changes to indicate either CarPlay or Android Auto (whichever is applicable) when a compatible phone is connected via USB. Android Auto requires a phone running the Android Lollipop 5.0 operating system or above, while Apple CarPlay requires an iPhone 5 or later.

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Chevrolet has been teasing it for awhile and at a event in Belle Isle - near Detroit, MI - Camaro Six or the 2016 Camaro has been introduced.

 

Now if you were expecting a new style for the Camaro, then you'll be slightly disappointed as the basic shape is the same. Sure there are some slight changes to the front and rear, but Chevrolet played it safe. Don't mess with success.

 

At least under the skin, there are some massive changes. The big story is the Camaro utilizing a modified version of the Alpha platform found under the Cadillac ATS and CTS. Chevrolet says the Camaro is 28 percent more rigid than the outgoing model thanks to the switch to Alpha. Also the Camaro is expected handle better thanks to a slightly smaller size and 200 pound weight loss.

 

The suspension has been updated with a new multi-link MacPherson strut setup in the front, and a five-link independent setup in the rear. Brembo brakes become an option for most models, while SS gets them as standard. The SS also gets Magnetic Ride Control as standard.

 

Like the Ford Mustang, the Chevrolet Camaro will boast a turbo-four, V6, and V8 engines. Here's what the lineup will look like,

• Turbocharged 2.0L Four: 275 Horsepower, 295 Pound-Feet of Torque
• 3.6L V6: 335 Horsepower, 284 Pound-Feet of Torque
• 6.2L LT1 V8: 455 Horsepower, 455 Pound-Feet of Torque
  

All engines get a choice of either a six-speed manual or an eight-speed automatic.

 

Moving inside, the Camaro gets a new instrument panel that gets an optional eight-inch screen to show entertainment, navigation, and performance information. Another eight-inch screen in the center provides Chevrolet's MyLink infotainment system.

 

No word on pricing, but Chevrolet says the Camaro will be arriving at dealers in the fourth quarter.

 

Source: Chevrolet

 

 

Press Release is on Page 2

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2016 Camaro Establishes New Performance Benchmark

• Five-year segment leader is lighter, more powerful, with more advanced technology
  

DETROIT – The sixth-generation Chevrolet Camaro revealed today offers higher levels of performance, technology and refinement and is designed to maintain the sporty car segment leadership earned over the past five years.

 

The Gen Six Camaro provides a faster, more nimble driving experience, enabled by an all-new, lighter architecture and a broader powertrain range. Six all-new powertrain combinations are offered, including a 2.0L Turbo, an all-new 3.6L V-6 and the LT1 6.2L V-8, which is SAE-certified at 455 horsepower (339 kW) and 455 lb-ft of torque (617 Nm) – for the most powerful Camaro SS ever. Each engine is available with a six-speed manual or eight-speed automatic transmission.

 

Camaro’s leaner, stiffer platform and slightly smaller dimensions are accentuated by a dramatic, sculpted exterior. Meticulously tuned in the wind tunnel, the exterior contributes to performance through reduced aerodynamic lift for better handling while enhancing efficiency.

 

A driver-focused interior integrates class-leading control technologies, including a new Driver Mode Selector, configurable instrument cluster and a customizable ambient lighting feature.

 

“Redesigning the Camaro is thrilling and challenging all at once, but the secret is to offer something more,” said Mark Reuss, General Motors executive vice president of Product Development. “For Camaro enthusiasts, it retains iconic design cues and offers even more performance. For a new generation of buyers, the 2016 Camaro incorporates our most innovative engineering ideas with finely honed performance and leading design.”

 

Only two parts carry over from the fifth-generation Camaro to the new Gen Six: the rear bowtie emblem and the SS badge.

 

To make it not only the best Camaro ever, but one of the best performance cars available, Chevrolet focused on three pillars of development:

 

Performance

• Vehicle mass has been reduced by 200 pounds or more, depending on the model, creating a more nimble, responsive driving experience
• Most efficient Camaro ever, with a new 2.0L turbo SAE-certified at 275 hp (205 kW) and 295 lb-ft (400 Nm) – and delivers more than 30 mpg on the highway (GM-estimated), and 0-60 mph acceleration well under 6 seconds
• Efficient performance in a new 3.6L V-6 featuring direct injection, continuously variable valve timing and – for the first time – Active Fuel Management (cylinder deactivation), offering an SAE-certified 335 hp (250 kW) and 284 lb-ft of torque (385 Nm), for the highest specific output of any naturally aspirated V-6 in the segment
• The most powerful Camaro SS ever, with a new 6.2L LT1 direct-injected Small Block V-8 rated at 455 hp (339 kW) and 455 lb-ft of torque (617 Nm)
• Magnetic Ride Control active suspension available on Camaro SS for the first time
• With improved handling and performance, the Camaro SS delivers better lap times than the fifth-generation’s track-focused Camaro 1LE package.
  

Technology

• All-new Drive Mode Selector, which tailors up to eight vehicle attributes for four modes: Snow/Ice, Tour, Sport and – on SS models – Track settings
• Segment-exclusive, Interior Spectrum Lighting that offers 24 different ambient lighting effects on the dash, door panels, and center console
• High-definition, configurable color displays – including available dual, 8-inch-diagonal screens.
  

Design

• More athletic-looking, sculptured exterior that complements the tighter, leaner architecture – and offers all-new, modern lighting signatures, including light-emitting diode (LED) technology
• Greater emphasis on customer personalization with wider range of choices, including 10 exterior colors, five interior color combinations, lighting options and a full complement of dealer-available accessories available at launch – including wheels, stripe packages and additional accessories
• Aerodynamically optimized design that is the result of 350 hours of wind tunnel testing, reducing drag on LT models and improving downforce on SS
• All-new, interior with shifter-focused center console, intuitive controls, flat-bottom steering wheel, and higher quality materials throughout
• Unique control rings around the air vents used for temperature and fan speed adjustments, eliminating the need for conventional buttons
  

“We have had the incredible opportunity to meet literally thousands of Gen 5 Camaro owners who provided direct feedback on what they loved about their car and what they wanted for the next-gen Camaro,” said Al Oppenheiser, Camaro chief engineer. “As a result, the 2016 Camaro builds on what made the current Camaro such a success with more power, more agile handling and more technology.

 

“We expect it will set the new benchmark in the segment – and give a new generation of enthusiasts a reason to fall in love with Camaro.”

 

The Gen Six Camaro goes on sale later this year, offered in LT and SS models.

 

Lightweight architecture and chassis systems
Approximately 70 percent of the architectural components are unique to Camaro. Through extensive computer-aided engineering, structural rigidity was increased by 28 percent, while the body-in-white mass was reduced by 133 pounds (60.5 kg).

 

In their quest to make the 2016 Camaro as lean as possible, engineers and designers evaluated every aspect of its architecture – already the most mass-efficient ever created by GM – and supporting elements, saving grams here and pounds there that contributes to the car’s lower curb weight. As a result, the total curb weight for Camaro has been reduced by more than 200 pounds (90 kg).

 

Significant weight savings came from using an aluminum instrument panel frame instead of steel, which saved 9.2 pounds (4.2 kg). The use of lightweight components, including aluminum front suspension links and steel rear suspension links with lightening holes, in the new five-link rear suspension system contributed to a 26-pound (12 kg) reduction in the overall suspension weight. With the lighter, stiffer architecture and more powerful engines, the Gen Six Camaro SS delivers better lap times than the fifth-generation’s track-focused Camaro 1LE package.

 

“The driving experience is significantly different,” said Aaron Link, lead development engineer. “Immediately, you will notice how much lighter and more nimble the Camaro feels. That feeling increases when you drive the Camaro harder – it brakes more powerfully, dives into corners quicker, and accelerates faster than ever.”

 

The Camaro features a new, multi-link MacPherson strut front suspension with Camaro-specific geometry. The double-pivot design provides a more precise feeling of control, including more linear and communicative feel from the quick-ratio electric power steering system. At the rear, a new five-link independent suspension yields outstanding wheel control and reduces “squat” during acceleration.

 

In addition, the Magnetic Ride Control is available on the Camaro SS for the first time. Previously limited to the Camaro ZL1, the active suspension reads road and driving conditions 1,000 times per second, and automatically adjusts the damper settings to optimize ride comfort and control.

 

All Camaro models offer Brembo brakes – they’re standard on SS – optimized for the car’s mass and performance capability. On Camaro LT, the available brakes include 12.6-inch (320 mm) front rotors with four-piston calipers and 12.4-inch (315 mm) rear rotors with single-piston sliding calipers. Camaro SS employs 13.6-inch (345 mm) front rotors with four-piston fixed calipers and 13.3-inch (338 mm) rear rotors with four-piston fixed calipers.

 

Goodyear tires are used on all models: The LT features standard 18-inch wheels wrapped with Goodyear Eagle Sport all-season tires and available 20-inch wheels matched with Eagle F1 Asymmetric all-season run-flat tires. Camaro SS features standard 20-inch aluminum wheels with Eagle F1 Asymmetric 3 run-flat tires.

 

More powerful and efficient
The new Camaro will be offered with six different powertrain combinations, each designed to deliver improved performance and efficiency.

 

The Camaro LT’s standard engine is a new 2.0L Turbo, rated at an SAE-certified 275 horsepower (205 kW) and 295 lb-ft of torque (400 Nm). For power on demand, it offers a wide torque band with 90 percent of peak torque available from 2,100 rpm to 3,000 rpm, and maximum torque from 3,000 to 4,500 rpm. The 2.0L turbo will deliver 0-60 mph acceleration in less than six seconds and offer more than 30 mpg on the highway (GM-estimated), making it the most fuel-efficient Camaro ever.

 

An all-new 3.6L V-6 is available in the Camaro LT, producing and SAE-certified 335 horsepower (250 kW) and 284 lb-ft of torque (385 Nm), for the highest specific output of any naturally aspirated V-6 in the segment. The engine incorporates a trio of technologies for uncompromised efficiency and performance, including direct injection, variable valve timing and, for the first time, Active Fuel Management (cylinder deactivation), which disables two cylinders under light throttle applications to enhance efficiency.

 

The 2.0L turbo and 3.6L V-6 engines are offered with a six-speed manual transmission or the all-new Hydra-Matic 8L45 paddle-shift eight-speed automatic transmission. It’s based on the Hydra-Matic 8L90 eight-speed, but scaled for the performance envelope of the smaller engines and offering an estimated 5-percent efficiency improvement over a comparable six-speed automatic.

 

Camaro SS is powered by the 6.2L LT1 V-8 engine introduced on the Corvette Stingray. About 20 percent of the components are specific for the Camaro’s architecture, including new, tubular “tri-Y”-type exhaust manifolds. It also offers advanced technologies such as variable valve timing, direct injection and Active Fuel Management (on automatic-equipped models) to help balance efficiency and performance. Output is SAE-certified at 455 horsepower (339 kW) and 455 lb-ft of torque (617 Nm), making it the most-powerful Camaro SS ever.

 

The LT1 engine is available with a standard six-speed manual transmission – with new Active Rev Match technology that “blips” the throttle for perfectly timed downshifts – or the Hydra-Matic 8L90 paddle-shift eight-speed automatic.

 

Each engine has been carefully tuned for a distinctive performance sound. All 2.0L turbo models feature active noise cancellation, which uses sound waves to cancel unwanted cabin noise. Models equipped with the available Bose audio system also feature engine sound enhancement, which amplifies the native sounds of the 2.0L turbo engine – and can be disabled based on the driver’s preference.

 

Both the 3.6L V-6 and 6.2L V-8 feature mechanical sound enhancers – resonators that direct induction noise from the engine bay into the cabin. Both engines are available with a dual-mode exhaust, which features electronically controlled valves that bypass the mufflers under acceleration, delivering improved performance and greater sound levels. With the dual-mode exhaust, drivers can personalize the exhaust sound, from a “stealth” mode to the most aggressive “track” mode.

 

Compact, athletic design
The exterior of the Camaro is more sculpted and more muscular effect that makes the new car look significantly lower and wider than before, even though it is within two inches of the exterior dimensions of the current Camaro:

 

“From every angle, you’ll never mistake this for anything but a Camaro,” said Tom Peters, design director. “We’ve taken that iconic design and amplified its proportions to reflect a more dynamic driving experience – like the T-shirt on a muscular physique.”

 

The front of the Camaro is defined by a cross-car grille/headlamp aperture, a signature cue that dates to the first generation. The new, expressive execution gives the Camaro a stronger, more determined face. It also displays a new, nearly fastback profile that flows into the pronounced haunches of the rear fenders, enhancing the wider, more aggressive stance.

 

A more expressive take on the taillamps blends the horizontal aesthetic of the first generation with a dual-element theme and aggressive tapers for a contemporary appearance. Additionally, SS models have a unique rear spoiler.

 

Standard lighting includes halogen projector beam headlamps and taillamps. RS and SS models add high-intensity discharge, or HID, projector-beam headlamps and LED “signature lighting” daytime running lights – including a sweeping LED lightpipe integrated in the headlamp and an LED light pipe integrated into the front fascia. RS and SS models also feature LED lighting for the rear taillamps, including auxiliary LED light guides that mirror the shape of the front signature lighting.

 

In many cases, the exterior design not only communicates the performance capabilities of the new Camaro, but contributes to them. For example, the teams spent more than 350 hours testing the Camaro in the wind tunnel, meticulously tailoring the exterior to improve cooling and reduce aerodynamic lift and drag.

 

Aerodynamic details include a subtle “air curtain” on the front fascia, which guides air around the wheels rather than into the wheelhouses, reducing drag. Also, the Camaro SS has a unique front fascia with integrated brake cooling ducts and a unique hood with functional air vents, which improve engine cooling and reduce front lift.

 

All models share a more pronounced, sculpted roof panel that improves the structural rigidity of the roof for greater refinement. The roof is assembled using laser brazing, eliminating the need for “ditch channel” seams and cover trim, giving the car a sleeker appearance while saving half a kilogram compared to traditional spot welding.

 

There’s also a new interpretation of the Camaro’s iconic red, white and blue “banner” insignia, displayed on the front fenders.

 

Driver-focused interior and technologies
Like the exterior, the interior is completely new yet instantly recognizable. The instrument panel, for example, is a departure from the previous model, but retains the Camaro’s familiar dual-binnacle-style instrument cluster hood.

 

“Given the level of technology and performance, the interior had to be modern and driver focused.” said Ryan Vaughan, interior design manager. “But although the interior is an all new design, it is still instinctively recognizable as a Camaro.”

 

The instrument cluster features analog instruments to provide the driver with essential performance information, as well as an available eight-inch-diagonal high-definition center screen that can be configured to provide additional information including navigation, performance, and infotainment features.

 

Another eight-inch screen, integrated in the center of the instrument panel, serves as the interface for the enhanced, next-generation MyLink system.

 

The new center console and center stack are designed with high performance driving in mind. For example, the heating and cooling controls are integrated into rings surrounding the air ducts. Eliminating the associated buttons makes the cabin feel more spacious, and makes adjusting the temperature easy while keeping your eyes on the road.

 

An electronic parking brake replaces the previous mechanical parking brake handle. This enabled the cup holders to be repositioned for improved range of motion when shifting in manual-transmission models.

 

An available, segment-first LED ambient lighting system, integrated in the dash, door panels and center console, offers 24 different colors, as well as fade and transition effects that spread across the interior. There’s even a theatrical “car show” mode that cycles randomly through the entire color spectrum when the Camaro is parked.

 

The ambient lighting is one of eight attributes the driver can adjust using the Camaro’s new Driver Mode Selector– accessed via a switch on the center console. The system enables the driver to tailor the look, sound and feel of 2016 Camaro to their preferences and driving conditions:

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Over the weekend, Chevrolet announced the pricing for the 2016 Volt before it goes on sale later this year. Pricing for new model will begin at $33,995 (includes a $825 destination charge). Chevrolet is quick to point out the 2016 Volt is almost $1,200 less that current Volt on sale. Add in Federal and State incentives and you could drive away with a Volt for as low as $24,995.

Aside from the price cut, the 2016 Volt sees an increase in overall electric range (50 vs. 31 miles) and a improvement for the gas engine's fuel economy (41 MPG vs. 37 MPG).

"The next generation Chevrolet Volt delivers more technology, the ability to drive further between gas fill ups and now with even more value to our customers. It's what our loyal Volt owners told us they wanted," said Steve Majoros, Director, Chevrolet Marketing. "We are confident we will continue to attract new customers to Volt with the vehicle's product improvements and attractive price."

Source: Chevrolet

Press Release is on Page 2

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Chevrolet Announces 2016 Volt Pricing

• Next Gen delivers more technology at new price as low as $26,495
  

DETROIT – The Chevrolet Volt is poised to continue to bring new owners to the electric plug-in family. Pricing will be as low as $26,495 after the full federal tax credit of $7,500. (Federal tax credit can range from $0 up to $7,500.) In California, the vehicle’s largest market, residents of the state will be able to purchase the all-new Volt for as low as $24,995 after state and federal incentives.

The 2016 model will start at $33,995 MSRP, including an $825 destination fee (excluding tax, title, license and dealer fees). This is almost $1,200 less than the current-generation Volt.

“The next-generation Chevrolet Volt delivers more technology, the ability to drive further between gas fill-ups and now with even more value to our customers. It’s what our loyal Volt owners told us they wanted,” said Steve Majoros, director, Chevrolet Marketing. “We are confident we will continue to attract new customers to Volt with the vehicle’s product improvements and attractive price.”

The Volt continues to be a success with the brand, with nearly 70 percent of Volt owners trading in a non-GM product or adding to their household fleet in 2014, the highest of any Chevy nameplate. The number one trade-in for the Volt is the Toyota Prius. To date, more than 75,000 first-generation Volt owners have driven hundreds of millions of EV miles.

Volt owners who charge regularly can expect to drive an estimated 1,000 miles or more between fill-ups, based on GM testing. The 2016 Volt will provide owners with impressive fuel economy of a GM-estimated 102 MPGe (electric) and 41 combined mpg on gasoline power.

The new Volt will offer a GM-estimated 50 miles of all-electric driving range on a single charge, a 31-percent improvement over the first-generation Volt. This means new Volt owners should anticipate that approximately 90 percent of trips in a new Volt will be driven all-electrically.

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The Corvette has a long history of excelling in endurance racing, and the C7.R looks to continue that. To celebrate the legacy, Chevrolet has announced a special edition Corvette Z06 which brings some of C7.R race car to the road.

The 2016 Corvette Z06 C7.R Edition comes in yellow or black and boasts a fair amount of unpainted carbon fiber (including the material on the hood), along with grilles painted in Spectra Gray Metallic. A set of black wheels with Corvette Racing caps come wrapped in Michelin Pilot Super Sport Cup 2 tires. Inside are a set of Competition Sport Seats that are upholstered in Jet Black leather. Suede lines the steering wheel, gearshift, instrument panel, and doors.

Being a Z06, the C7.R Edition packs the supercharged V8 producing 650 horsepower found in the standard Z06. You also get the Z07 performance package which boasts carbon-ceramic brakes and adjustable aero elements.

Chevrolet plans on building 500 C7.R Edition Corvettes which will go on sale later this year. No word on price.

Source: Chevrolet

Press Release is on Page 2

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BOWLING GREEN, Ky. – Chevrolet today introduced the 2016 Corvette Z06 C7.R Edition – a road-going, track-capable homage to the Corvette Racing C7.R racecars. It’s offered in Corvette Racing’s signature yellow livery – or black – with coordinated exterior and interior accents.

Only 500 examples of the C7.R Edition will be built and all will include the Z07 Performance Package with carbon ceramic brakes, as well as a specially serialized vehicle identification number. They go on sale later this year.

“Corvette Racing’s legacy and technology were significant influences on the development of the Corvette Z06 and the new C7.R Edition honors the direct link between the racecar and the production model,” said Harlan Charles, Corvette product and marketing manager. “It also advances Chevrolet’s plan to offer special-edition models that offer a unique, personal ownership experiences, which become important parts of Corvette’s legacy.”

Here is a complete list of content and unique features for the 2016 Corvette Z06 C7.R Edition:

• Offered on coupe and convertible models with 3LZ trim
  
• Available in Corvette Racing Yellow Tintcoat (new for 2016) or Black exterior colors
  
• C7.R Edition graphics package
  
• Z07 Performance Package with Brembo carbon ceramic brakes and Michelin PS Cup 2 tires
  
• Yellow brake calipers
  
• Black wheels with yellow accent strip and Corvette Racing-logo center caps
  
• Visible carbon fiber ground effects package
  
• New visible carbon fiber hood section
  
• Grilles and vents finished in Spectra Gray Metallic
  
• Jet Black leather interior with sueded microfiber accents on the instrument panel and doors
  
• Sueded microfiber-trimmed Competition Sport Seat, steering wheel and shifter
  
• Yellow contrast stitching throughout the interior
  
• Carbon fiber interior trim package (high-gloss)
  
• Corvette Racing sill plates
  
• Numbered C7.R Edition interior plaque showing the build number, starting with VIN 700001
  
• Special indoor car cover with C7.R graphics.
  

The Z07 Performance Package includes Brembo carbon ceramic-matrix brake rotors that improve braking performance and contribute to greater handling through reduced un-sprung weight. The Z07 package also includes adjustable front and rear aero components for unprecedented aerodynamic downforce and Michelin Pilot Super Sport Cup 2 tires for enhanced grip.

“The Z07 Performance Package enhances overall performance to make the Corvette Z06 one of the most track-capable cars you can buy off the dealership floor and still drive it to work every day,” said Charles.

“Combined with the 650-horsepower supercharged LT4 engine, true aerodynamic downforce and performance technologies such as Magnetic Ride Control, Performance Traction Management and an electronic limited slip differential, the Corvette Z06 C7.R Edition offers capability matched only by an elite fraternity of the world’s supercars and special-edition exclusivity that is sure to make it an instant collector’s item.”

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General Motors smallest electric vehicle, the Chevrolet Spark EV will be getting a price cut. Announced today, the Chevrolet Spark EV will now ring at $25,995 (including freight), a decrease of $1,675. General Motors notes that with federal and state incentives, along with customer cash can get into a Spark EV for $14,995.

There is also a lease special available on Spark EV, with Chevrolet offering a 39 month lease for $139 a month. More important is that the lease deal doesn't require a down payment, just the usual tax, title, license, and dealer fees.

“Chevrolet is committed to making EV driving more accessible, affordable and fun. The Spark EV is already the most efficient – and one of the most affordable – EVs you can buy. 2015 Spark EV customers will benefit from an impressive blend of technology, capability and low cost of ownership, now at an even more impressive price,” said Steve Majoros, director of Chevrolet Car and Crossover Marketing.

Source: General Motors

Press Release is on Page 2

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2015 Chevrolet Spark EV Repriced to Offer Greater Value

• As low as $14,995 after full federal and state tax credits and Chevrolet Bonus Cash
  

DETROIT – Chevrolet announced today Spark EV 1LT’s new manufacturer’s suggested retail price would start at $25,995. Depending on an individual’s tax situation, the Spark EV is eligible for federal tax credit up to $7,500.

“Chevrolet is committed to making EV driving more accessible, affordable and fun” said Steve Majoros, director of Chevrolet Car and Crossover Marketing. “The Spark EV is already the most efficient – and one of the most affordable – EVs you can buy. 2015 Spark EV customers will benefit from an impressive blend of technology, capability and low cost of ownership, now at an even more impressive price.”

California and Maryland Spark EV owners may also qualify for a $2,500 California state rebate or $2,300 Maryland excise tax exemption. Additional Chevrolet bonus cash is also available: $1,000 in California, $1,200 in Maryland, and $3,500 in Oregon. After full federal and state tax credits and Chevrolet bonus cash, the Spark EV could be as low as $14,995. Individuals should consult a tax professional prior to claiming any credits to confirm eligibility for tax benefits.

Spark EV owners in California and Maryland are also eligible for High-Occupancy Vehicle, or carpool lane, access

A $139 per month* sign-and-drive lease for 39 months with $0 due at lease signing including security deposit but excluding tax, title, license and dealer fees, is also available, making the Chevrolet Spark EV one of the most affordable EVs on the market.

Compared to the average new gas-powered vehicle, the Spark EV can save drivers, on average, about $83 per month in fuel costs according to EPA assessments based on 24 mpg highway for an average vehicle and 12 cents per kWh of electricity cost. More details are available at fueleconomy.gov.

Currently available at select Chevrolet dealers throughout California and Oregon, select Chevrolet dealers in Maryland will have Spark EV’s available beginning in mid-2015.

More than 90 percent of Spark EV owners are trading in a non-GM nameplate or adding a new car to the household.

“The Chevrolet Spark EV is helping us reach new buyers in critical markets like Los Angeles,” said Majoros. “Spark EV owners recognize the car as an opportunity to drive an all-electric vehicle that fits their budget and lifestyle.” The Spark EV features a combined city/highway EPA estimated range of 82 miles when fully charged and an EPA-estimated combined city/highway 119 MPGe fuel economy equivalent.

The Spark EV is compatible with the SAE combo charger for DC Fast Charging as an available option. The capability enables the Spark EV to recharge up to 80 percent of its capacity in approximately 20 minutes at select DC Fast Charging stations based on charging levels and outside temperature.

Unlike most competitors, the Spark EV’s battery system is capable of handling multiple compatible DC Fast Charges daily. Charging can also be completed in less than seven hours using a dedicated 240V charge. A 120V charge cord set comes standard. Charging can be managed and monitored remotely using the Spark EV’s smart phone application, provided by OnStar, which is standard for three years. The vehicle’s 19 kWh lithium-ion battery pack offers limited warranty protection of eight years or 100,000 miles, whichever comes first.

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Chevrolet is planning something big for the debut of the sixth-generation Camaro. The brand announced this morning what can be described as a jamboree or a big party. They are inviting 1,000 Camaro owners to a day-long celebration on Belle Isle Park in Detroit on May 16th where the brand will show off the new Camaro. But that isn't all Chevrolet has planned for the day.

• A “Camaro Museum” display of the most significant vehicles from the brand’s history
  
• Hot-lap rides in the 2015 Camaro Z/28 around the Belle Isle Grand Prix course
  
• Meet-and-greet opportunities with Camaro designers and engineers.
  
• Camaro-only parking for owners
  

“This will be an event Camaro fans will not want to miss. This is only the sixth time we have introduced an all-new Camaro. We wanted to share the moment with the customers and fans who have helped make Camaro both America’s favorite performance car for the past five years, and a cultural icon since 1967,” said Todd Christensen, Camaro marketing manager.

Now if you own a Camaro and want a chance to be at the unveiling, you can register at thecamarosix.com.

Source: Chevrolet

Press Release is on Page 2

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2016 Camaro Drops Cover on May 16 in Detroit

DETROIT – Chevrolet is inviting fans to see the all-new 2016 Camaro on Saturday, May 16, in Detroit.

The sixth-generation Camaro will cap a day-long celebration on Belle Isle, the 982-acre island park that is home to the Chevrolet Detroit Belle Isle Grand Prix. This year’s running is May 29-31.

“This will be an event Camaro fans will not want to miss,” said Todd Christensen, Camaro marketing manager. “This is only the sixth time we have introduced an all-new Camaro. We wanted to share the moment with the customers and fans who have helped make Camaro both America’s favorite performance car for the past five years, and a cultural icon since 1967.”

Chevrolet expects approximately 1,000 people to attend the Camaro reveal, which will also include:

• A “Camaro Museum” display of the most significant vehicles from the brand’s history
  
• Hot-lap rides in the 2015 Camaro Z/28 around the Belle Isle Grand Prix course
  
• Meet-and-greet opportunities with Camaro designers and engineers.
  
• Camaro-only parking for owners
  

The event is free, however space is limited and registration is required. Attendance will be allocated with priority given to fans who agree to bring their Camaros to Belle Isle. For more information, or to register, please visit www.thecamarosix.com.

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Back on January 21st of this year, we reported that General Motors had filed a trademark application for the name Z71 Trail Boss. Fresh off the heals of the Chevrolet Colorado Box Delete Option for commercial customers announced earlier this week; at the 2015 Cleveland Auto Show on Friday, Chevrolet took the covers off the bearer of Z71 Trail Boss badge, the 2015 Chevrolet Colorado Z71 Trail Boss.

With a package price of $3,320, the Z71 Trail Boss package will be offered on both extended and crew cab configurations with either long or short beds. The package includes special 17" metallic painted aluminum wheels shod with Goodyear Wrangler Duratrac all terrain tires, black fender flares, blacked out Chevrolet logos, GearOn tie down rings, load bar, and cargo divider, spray-on bedliner, G80 locking rear differential, transfer case shield on 4wd models, and front recovery hooks.

The Colorado has been a sales success for Chevrolet with dealer turnover running at about two weeks. Chevrolet has released a number of special trim packages for the Silverado in recent months with the Custom Sport, W/T Black Out Edition, and Midnight Editions. Chevrolet says that truck buyers want to be able to customize their trucks straight from the factory and now Colorado customers will have that flexibility as well.

We expect this won't be the last special trim package for the Colorado.

We will have pictures from floor of the Cleveland Auto Show at 11:00 am Eastern Time.

Source: Chevrolet

Chevrolet Press Release on Page 2

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CLEVELAND – For those who want to blaze their own trails, Chevrolet introduces the 2015 Colorado Z71 Trail Boss edition today at the Cleveland Auto Show.

The Trail Boss combines the capability of Chevrolet’s Z71 off-road truck suspension package with more aggressive tires and additional appearance enhancements. It is offered in extended and crew cab configurations, with a choice of a long or short cargo bed and available 4WD.

The Trail Boss goes on sale this spring with a starting price of $28,505 plus the package price of $3,320.

“The Chevrolet Colorado Z71 Trail Boss Edition is equally at home blazing an urban trail or following one to a favorite remote campground,” said Tony Johnson, Colorado marketing manager. “It gives owners the gear-carrying ability and versatility they need to venture off-road, with segment-leading efficiency and capability.”

In addition to Chevy’s proven off-road truck suspension package, the Colorado Z71 Trail Boss Edition features Goodyear Wrangler DuraTrac 265/65R17 all-terrain tires and 17-inch dark argent metallic painted cast-aluminum wheels; GearOn™ moveable cargo tie-down rings, load bar and cargo divider; with black fender flares and front and rear black Chevy bowtie logos.

Additional features include:

• G80 automatic locking rear differential
  
• Transfer case shield (on 4WD)
  
• Front recovery hooks
  
• Black, three-inch round rocker steps
  
• Spray-on bedliner
  
• Projector beam headlamps
  
• Front fog lamps
  
• All-weather floor mats with Z71 logo.
  

The Trail Boss is the second Colorado special edition announced recently. Last month, Chevrolet introduced the 2015 Colorado GearOn Special Edition, which blends the capability of the midsize pickup truck with the versatility of the GearOn accessory system – and additional popular features. It also goes on sale this spring.

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Sometimes, less is more. At the Work Truck Show in Indianapolis today, Chevrolet unveiled a Box Delete option for their Colorado Work Truck. By removing the box (a $300 credit towards the MSRP), Chevrolet is giving fleet and commercial buyers more flexibility in their trucks.

The box delete option will only be available on two-wheel drive extended cab work truck models and only with the 3.6 liter, 305 hp V6. Buyers will also be able to opt for a rear seat delete to have additional cargo capacity in the cab.

While Chevrolet says that the Colorado is the only truck in the mid-size truck segment with the box-delete option, that status may not last for long if the rumors of a Ram Promaster City chassis cab come true.

The RPO order code ZW9 for Box Delete package will be available for ordering beginning in mid-April 2015.

Press Release on page 2

Source: Chevrolet Media

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INDIANAPOLIS – With a box delete option, business owners and fleet managers can have it their way when it comes to customizing the back end of the 2015 Chevrolet Colorado.

Chevrolet today announced availability of the package in mid-April. It is on display this week at the annual National Truck Equipment Association Work Truck Show in Indianapolis. It is the only such option offered in the midsize truck segment.

“With the segment-leading efficiency and maneuverable size, the Colorado makes a great, flexible choice for urban businesses and fleets to make the most of a midsize truck,” said Ed Peper, U.S. vice president, GM Fleet & Commercial. “It’s ideal for utility companies requiring service bodies, as well as landscapers and other businesses needing the utility of a flatbed.”

The box delete package – RPO order code ZW9 – is available on Colorado Work Truck 2WD extended cab models and is offered exclusively with the 305-hp 3.6L V-6 engine and six-speed automatic transmission. A $300 credit is applied to the Colorado’s suggested retail price when the option is selected.

Additional vehicle and package highlights include:

• 2,200-pound payload rating
  
• 6,001-pound gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR)
  
• Temporary taillamps installed on the rear of the frame
  
• Rear bumper deleted
  
• Full-size spare tire included
  
• Eight body mount provisions (four per frame rail)
  
• Standard fuel filler position. Optional BJA-code service body fuel filler will be available and shipped loose in the cab for upfitter installation
  
• Z82 trailering package
  
• G80 locking differential.
  

Additionally, an option to delete the rear seat for great cargo capacity and versatility is available with the Colorado Work Truck extended cab regardless of whether the box stays or goes.

“The Colorado was developed with the upfitter industry in mind,” said Mike Jones, product manager, mid-pickups, CNG and LPG. “Input from body manufacturers and fleet owners helped us make the most of the optional fuel filler mounting location to suit their unique needs.”

Award winner

Chevrolet Colorado was named the 2015 Motor Trend Truck of the Year^® and Cars.com’s Best Pickup Truck of 2015. It also received Kelley Blue Book’s 5-Year Cost-to-Own award for the midsize truck category.

Like the full-size Chevrolet Silverado, the Colorado has a fully boxed perimeter frame, which provides the strength to support its capabilities and was engineered, to provide a confident, smooth and quiet ride.

A coil-over-type front suspension features aluminum knuckles that are low in mass and high in strength, contributing to a more responsive feel and efficiency. Colorado also features the segment’s first application of energy-saving electric power steering.

The Colorado has a short turning circle of 41.3 feet (12.6 meters), enabling easier maneuvering in tight areas such as on city streets.

Four-wheel disc brakes, with four-piston front calipers, are standard and feature Duralife™ brake rotors – pioneered on the Silverado – that can offer up to double the service life and save money on maintenance.

In the city, the V-6-powered Colorado 2WD (with box) is rated at 18 mpg, and on the highway, it’s rated at a segment-best 26 mpg.

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Chevrolet is giving the Silverado W/T some love with the introduction of the Black Out package.

The package adds a black paint color, 20-inch black painted aluminum wheels, P275/55R20 all-season blackwall tires, deep tinted glass, and black bowties. The package is available on the Silverado W/T regular and double cab models for $1,595.

Source: Chevrolet

Press Release is on Page 2

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Chevrolet Silverado Work Trucks Get Blacked Out

DETROIT – Chevrolet is adding a $1,595 Black Out package for regular- and double-cab 2015 Silverado 1500 WT models. It includes 20” black painted aluminum wheels, P275/55R20 all-season blackwall tires, deep tinted glass and black bowties. Prices start at $28,895. The package is available for order now, and customers can have any color they want, as long as it is black.

Editors’ Note: Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price excludes tax, title, license, dealer fees and optional equipment. Includes dealer freight charges and option package discounts.

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General Motors is going custom crazy with their trucks. In the past few weeks, the automaker has introduced the Chevrolet Silverado Custom Sport and GMC Canyon Nightfall Edition. Now at the National Automobile Dealers Association Convention & Expo in San Francisco, GM has introduced another custom package. Meet the 2015 Chevrolet Silverado Midnight Edition.

Like the Custom Sport, the Midnight Edition takes a Silverado Z71 and adds an all blacked-out treatment with body-colored grille, bumper, side moldings, and beltline moldings. A set of eighteen-inch wheels done up in black finish off the exterior.

“The Midnight special edition, like our recently announced Custom Sport Silverado, lets our dealers offer a custom look right from the factory. Customers can get a monochrome exterior, black alloy wheels and other uplevel touches, while maintaining all of the dependability Chevy trucks are famous for along with full factory warranty coverage,” said Sandor Piszar, Silverado marketing director.

Chevrolet says they will build 5,000 Midnight Edition Silverados in double and crew cab models. Pricing for the Midnight Edition will range from $1,595 to $1,995, dependent on the model.

Source: Chevrolet

Press Release is on Page 2

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2015 Silverado Midnight Edition is The New Black

• Monochrome appearance package to debut at NADA and Chicago Auto Show
  

DETROIT – Truck fans know that nothing adds presence to a pickup like basic black. And Chevrolet is taking black to the next level with the Silverado Midnight special edition, on display starting today at the National Automobile Dealers Association Convention & Expo in San Francisco, and making its public debut February 14 at the Chicago Auto Show.

Beginning with a black Silverado Z71, the Midnight special edition adds:

• An all-black front end with body-colored grille, bumper, headlamp bezels, tow hooks and fog lamps;
  
• Black side moldings and beltline moldings;
  
• 18-inch black painted alloy wheels with Goodyear Wrangler Duratrac all-terrain tires;
  
• Special Z71 badges on the doors;
  
• A spray-in bedliner (black, of course);
  
• And the finishing touches – black Chevrolet bowties front and rear.
  

Like all 2015 Silverado 1500 Z71s, Midnight special editions include off-road suspension, a locking rear differential, Hill Descent Control and a trailering package. Midnight special editions also include rear park assist and heated, power-adjusted outside rear-view mirrors.

“The Midnight special edition, like our recently announced Custom Sport Silverado, lets our dealers offer a custom look right from the factory,” said Sandor Piszar, Silverado marketing director. “Customers can get a monochrome exterior, black alloy wheels and other uplevel touches, while maintaining all of the dependability Chevy trucks are famous for along with full factory warranty coverage.”

Chevrolet will offer the Silverado Midnight special edition in either 1500 double-cab or crew-cab models. Up to 5,000 Midnight special editions will be produced for the 2015 model year. Dealers can order the trucks starting in February 2015. Package prices be $1,595 to $1,995, depending on the model.

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If you think the current Chevrolet Silverado has too much brightwork, the 2015 Silverado Custom Sport package might be for you. As a special edition package available on the LT and LTZ models, the Silverado Custom Sport package swaps out the chrome front and rear bumper, and grille surround for body colored versions. Chrome is added to the door handles and side mirrors. You can have any color of Custom Sport you like as long as it is white, black, or white diamond (LTZ only). The package also includes projector beam headlights, tow hooks, and heated mirrors.

Chevy says this special edition pays homage to the 1967 Chevrolet Custom Sport that was available with bright trim and bucket seats.

The Custom Sport package will cost between $1,950 - $2,950 with the higher number likely applying when selecting the white diamond tricoat paint.

2015 Silverado Custom Sport

2015 Silverado LTZ Z-71

Chevrolet Press Release on Page 2

Source: GM Media

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2015 Silverado Offers Custom Sport Package

Inspired by Chevy Custom Sport Trucks that helped launch personal-use pickups

DETROIT – With the new 2015 Silverado Custom Sport special edition, Chevrolet pays homage to one of its most iconic pickups, adding a sophisticated monochromatic look to double- and crew-cab Silverados.

The Custom Sport package features body-colored front and rear bumpers and a body-colored grille surround with a chrome-accented black grille. Other accents include 20-inch chrome wheels, chrome door handles and mirror caps, and chrome body-side moldings. The package also includes projector beam headlamps, tow hooks and heated power-adjusted mirrors.

“The Custom Sport special edition was inspired by Chevy Custom Sport Trucks of the late 1960s,” said Sandor Piszar, Chevrolet Trucks marketing director. “Those CST models added a touch of elegance to a great all-around truck, just like the Custom Sport package for the new Silverado.”

The redesigned 1967 Chevrolet pickup entered the market at a time when trucks were starting to move off the jobsites and into the driveways of cities and suburbs. The 1967 Custom Sport Truck, with its bright trim, plush carpet and bucket seats, helped launch a wave of personal use pickups that continues today.

For the 2015 Silverado, the Custom Sport package will be available as LT and LTZ models, including Z71s. LT models will be available in black or white, while LTZs will come in black or White Diamond Tricoat.

Package prices will vary from $1,950 to $2,950, depending on the model. Dealers can place orders starting this month.

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Motor Trend has named its truck of the year today and it has come to a complete shock to those who were expecting the Ford F-150 to take home the golden calipers. Instead it has gone to the Chevrolet Colorado.

“After days of testing, hundreds of miles on the road, and our most rigorous truck testing program to date, our editors unanimously selected the Chevy Colorado as our 2015 Truck of the Year. Colorado is a smart, capable, and refreshingly honest truck that makes a strong value and efficiency statement. It’s perfectly sized and suited for the needs of many of today’s truck users,” said Edward Loh, editor-in-chief at Motor Trend.

The Colorado earned praise for its spacious interior, fit and finish; performance, and price tag. The most surprising part of the Colorado's win was that unanimous vote by the editors of Motor Trend.

Aside from beating out the F-150, the Colorado also beat out

• Chevrolet Silverado 3500 HD
  
• Ford F-450
  
• Ford Transit 350 HR and Transit 150 MR
  
• GMC Canyon SLT
  
• GMC Sierra Denali 2500 HD
  

Source: Motor Trend, GM

Press Release is on Page 2

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MOTOR TREND Names Chevrolet Colorado 2015 Truck of the Year

Midsize pickup outclasses competition in design, engineering, efficiency, safety and more

EL SEGUNDO, Calif. – After its most comprehensive truck evaluation program in history, MOTOR TREND has selected the Chevy Colorado as its 2015 Truck of the Year®.

MOTOR TREND’s Truck of the Year program is only open to all-new or significantly updated trucks and vans for the upcoming model year. For 2015, seven contenders were invited to compete; three competitors were asked to bring a powertrain and/or body style variant for a total of 10 vehicles overall:

• Chevrolet Colorado WT and Colorado Z71
  
• Chevrolet Silverado 3500 HD
  
• Ford F150 2.7L EcoBoost and 3.5L EcoBoost
  
• Ford F-450
  
• Ford Transit 350 HR and Transit 150 MR
  
• GMC Canyon SLT
  
• GMC Sierra Denali 2500 HD
  

The 2015 Colorado emerged as MOTOR TREND’s 2015 Truck of the Year by a rare unanimous vote. The editors were particularly impressed with Colorado’s handsome, clean-sheet design, “right-sized” package, excellent handling and overall capability. Colorado’s potent-yet-efficient powertrains also returned best-in-class fuel economy according to Real MPG and EPA testing.

“After days of testing, hundreds of miles on the road, and our most rigorous truck testing program to date, our editors unanimously selected the Chevy Colorado as our 2015 Truck of the Year,” said Edward Loh, MOTOR TREND’s editor-in-chief. “Colorado is a smart, capable, and refreshingly honest truck that makes a strong value and efficiency statement. It’s perfectly sized and suited for the needs of many of today’s truck users.”

Said Sandor Piszar, Chevy Trucks marketing director: “The Chevrolet Colorado offers customers the versatility of a pickup in a powerful, refined, fuel-efficient midsize package, with up to 27 mpg EPA highway. For Colorado to emerge from MOTOR TREND’s thorough evaluation as the 2015 Truck of the Year shows how Colorado is changing the game by offering truck customers fresh new choices.”

To determine which truck deserved top honors, the MOTOR TREND test team subjected all of the contenders to numerous instrumented and real-world road tests. First up was standard MOTOR TREND testing, which included: 0-60 mph and 1/4-mile acceleration, 60-0 mph braking, and maximum lateral grip - all without payload or trailered loads.

A specific payload was then added to each truck and van, and the vehicles were then driven more than 250 miles to the Arizona/Nevada border to evaluate ride quality and loaded fuel economy. The vehicles were driven up and down the famed Davis Dam in Bullhead City, Ariz., for further assessment, including an instrumented test designed to simulate a passing situation while carrying a load.

The team then moved to a world-class automotive proving grounds for instrumented acceleration tests with nominal weight trailers. Truck and trailer were also driven through a short handling course to evaluate acceleration, braking, maneuverability and outward visibility. The final phase of evaluation involved a 21-mile road loop through hills of Arizona’s Hualapai Mountains.

Following the team’s intensive evaluation, the trucks were shipped to MOTOR TREND headquarters in El Segundo to undergo proprietary “Real MPG” fuel-economy testing. Using advanced exhaust gas and flow-rate analyzers, Real MPG measures tailpipe emissions every second during a three-hour, 88-mile drive around the Los Angeles area to record accurate real-world fuel economy.

Once testing was completed, select MOTOR TREND editors convened to determine which truck would be crowned Truck of the Year. The winner is not chosen from a direct comparison against the other contenders, but rather as a result of how each contender performed in testing and against the award’s six criteria: Design Advancement, Engineering Excellence, Efficiency, Safety, Value, and Performance of Intended Function.

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Chevrolet's littlest crossover, the Chevy Trax will launch in January 2015 with a base price of $20,995. Front-wheel-drive is standard and all-wheel-drive will be a $1,500 stand alone option on all trim levels.

The Trax shares its platform with the already on sale Buick Encore and will likely share that vehicle's 5-star front and side crash test ratings.

The only engine offered is the familiar 1.4 litre turbo unit producing 138 hp and 148 lb-ft of torque and EPA rated for 26 mpg city and 34mpg highway in front wheel drive models. EPA estimated fuel economy for the AWD model was not officially announced, but we expect it to be about the same or slightly better as the Buick Encore AWD which rings in at 23/30 city/highway.

Notable features include Chevy's MyLink, 10 airbags, Onstar 4G-LTE onboard wifi, and Siri Eyes Free connectivity.

The Trax has already been on sale in other global markets outside of the US with over 155,000 sales to date.

GM Press Release on Page 2

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DETROIT – Chevrolet announced today that its newest U.S. model, the Trax, will start at $20,995.

Offering compact-car maneuverability with SUV style, space and versatility, the Trax will come equipped with a standard 1.4L turbocharged engine providing an EPA estimated 26 city and 34 highway mpg, 10 air bags, MyLink infotainment with a seven-inch touch screen, rearview camera, remote keyless entry and a 60/40-split fold-flat rear seat and fold-down front passenger seat offering more than 48 cubic feet of cargo space.

Additional features offered include a $1,500 all-wheel-drive option – available on all trim levels – making Trax the most affordable AWD model in the Chevrolet portfolio; remote start and segment-exclusive OnStar 4G LTE with built-in Wi-Fi hotspot. Trax will also be the first in its class to offer Siri Eyes Free connectivity for compatible iPhone users.

The Trax is Chevrolet’s seventh small vehicle launch in four years. During that time, the brand’s share of the small-, compact- and mini-car segments has more than tripled.

“Trax is positioned to be a strong competitor in the emerging small-SUV market, which is expected to grow more than 80 percent in the next few years,” said Steve Majoros, Chevrolet director of car marketing.

The Trax, which goes on sale in January 2015, will be available in LS, LT and LTZ trim levels. It is already sold in 66 markets around the world with total sales of 155,000 to date.

Editors’ Note: Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price includes destination freight charge but excludes tax, title, license, dealer fees and optional equipment. Excludes other General Motors’ vehicles.

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If you have your heart set on getting a 2015 Chevrolet Corvette, you'll be waiting a bit for the chance. General Motors announced today that it has issued two stop-sale notices that cover 2,800 2015 model year Corvettes.

About 2,000 Corvettes have a potential problem with the driver's side airbag which may have been not properly attached and could separate in a crash. Another 800 Corvettes sitting on dealer lots may have only have one parking brake cable attached and not two. This causes the parking brake not to be as effective as it should be.

Now GM hasn't said if it will go ahead and issue a recall for these two problems. We'll keep you updated if they do.

Source: General Motors, Automotive News (Subscription Required)

William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at william.maley@cheersandgears.comor you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster.

Press Release is on Page 2

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In an effort to deal with quality issues quickly and completely, General Motors has told Chevrolet dealers to stop delivery of approximately 2,000 2015 Corvettes to fix the driver's airbag GM also has temporarily stopped shipment of the cars from the plant in Bowling Green, Ky. The cars are being inspected for a suspect part that attaches the air bag to the steering wheel. Separately, another 800 Corvettes -- most of them at dealerships -- are on hold because they may have been built with only one of the rear parking brake cables fully seated and engaged. The part must be inspected to assure the parking brake is operating on both brake drums.

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General Motors has announced pricing for the most powerful vehicle ever built. The new 2015 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 will start at $78,995 for the coupe and $83,995 for the convertible. The Z06 will be offered with a 6.2L supercharged V8 with 650 horsepower, a choice of either a seven-speed manual or eight-speed automatic, and three different trim levels. Available options include the Carbon Fiber Ground Effects package with enhanced aero for $2,995, and the Z07 Performance Package with Brembo carbon-ceramic brakes, upgraded tires, and improved aero for $7,995.

"The 2015 Corvette Z06's performance and technical capabilities place it in the elite fraternity of supercars. Very few cars in the world deliver 650 horsepower, true aerodynamic downforce, carbon fiber and performance technologies such as Magnetic Ride Control, Performance Traction Management and an electronic limited slip differential – and none gives the driver a transmission choice or the choice of a coupe with a removable roof panel or a full-power-top convertible," said Harlan Charles, Corvette product and marketing manager.

Source: Chevrolet

William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at william.maley@cheersandgears.comor you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster.

Press Release is on Page 2

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2015 Corvette Z06 Priced at $78,995

American supercar delivers unprecedented performance, technology

DETROIT – The 2015 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 – the most powerful and technologically advanced model in the iconic car's 62-year history – will be offered at a suggested retail price of $78,995 while the convertible model will start at $83,995, Chevrolet announced today.

"The 2015 Corvette Z06's performance and technical capabilities place it in the elite fraternity of supercars," said Harlan Charles, Corvette product and marketing manager. "Very few cars in the world deliver 650 horsepower, true aerodynamic downforce, carbon fiber and performance technologies such as Magnetic Ride Control, Performance Traction Management and an electronic limited slip differential – and none gives the driver a transmission choice or the choice of a coupe with a removable roof panel or a full-power-top convertible."

Leveraging learnings from the Corvette Racing program, the $2,995 Carbon Fiber Ground Effects enables the Corvette Z06 to produce true aerodynamic downforce for increased stability at high speeds. The package adds a functional carbon fiber front splitter, carbon fiber rocker panels, and a larger rear spoiler.

For the ultimate performance, the Z07 Performance Package is available for $7,995, adding Brembo carbon ceramic-matrix brake rotors that improve braking performance and contribute to better handling through reduced unsprung weight. The Z07 package adds adjustable front and rear aerodynamic components to the Carbon Fiber Ground Effects package for unprecedented aerodynamic downforce and Michelin Pilot Super Sport Cup tires for enhanced grip.

"The Z07 performance package enhances overall performance to make the Corvette Z06 one of the most track-capable cars you can buy off the dealership floor and still drive it to work every day," said Charles.

Z06 models are offered in 1LZ, 2LZ and 3LZ trims. A range of available features enables customers to tailor the look and feel of their Z06, including:

- Premium Package with leather-wrapped interior

- Aero-enhancing carbon fiber ground effects package

- Performance Data Recorder and navigation

- Competition sport seats offered in leather or sueded microfiber

- Carbon fiber interior trim and carbon fiber convertible tonneau cover inserts

- Visible carbon fiber roof panel (Coupe)

- Tintcoat exterior colors, several available wheel finishes and several available brake caliper colors.

Most powerful, technologically advanced Corvette ever

The Z06 rejoins the Corvette lineup for 2015 with a stronger aluminum frame than previous models, an aero package designed to produce performance-enhancing downforce and an all-new, supercharged 6.2L V-8 engine rated at an SAE-certified at 650 horsepower (485 kW) and 650 lb-ft of torque (881 Nm). That makes it the most powerful production car ever from General Motors and one of the most powerful production cars available in the United States.

To balance performance and efficiency, the LT4 leverages the same trio of advanced technologies introduced on the Corvette Stingray – direct injection, Active Fuel Management (cylinder deactivation) and continuously variable valve timing – and leverages them with a new, more efficient supercharger. Combined with the fuel-efficient multi-speed transmissions, aerodynamic design and lightweight construction, they help make the new Z06 surprisingly efficient.

The Corvette Z06 also leverages other technologies introduced on the Corvette Stingray, including the strategic use of lightweight materials and advanced driver technologies, with calibrations tailored for its capabilities. The aluminum frame structure, for example, is 20 percent stiffer than the previous, fixed-roof Z06.

Additional technologies support the car's tremendous performance capabilities and enhance the driving experience, including:

- Third-generation Magnetic Selective Ride Control dampers are standard and can be adjusted for touring comfort or maximum track performance via the standard Driver Mode Selector

- Performance Traction Management is available in the Track mode of the Drive Mode Selector and offers five settings of torque reduction and brake intervention for track driving

- Launch control is available in Track mode for manual and automatic transmissions, providing maximum off-the-line acceleration

- An electronic limited-slip differential, also standard equipment on Z06, adjusts the rate at which the limited slip engages, to balance between steering response and stability in different driving conditions with more aggressive performance in Sport and Track modes.

The Z06 offers three increasing levels of aerodynamic downforce:

- The standard Z06 features a front splitter, spats around the front wheel openings, a unique carbon-fiber hood with a larger vent, and an aggressive rear spoiler.

- The available carbon-fiber aero package – in either carbon flash paint or a visible carbon-fiber finish – adds a carbon-fiber front splitter with aviation-style winglets, carbon fiber rocker panels, and a larger rear spoiler with a fixed wickerbill, which combine to create true aerodynamic downforce

- The available Z07 package adds larger winglets to the front splitter, along with an adjustable, see-through center section on the rear spoiler for track use. With this package, the Corvette Z06 delivers the most aerodynamic downforce of any production car GM has tested.

Drivers can monitor the Z06's performance without taking their eyes off the road via a color head-up display (standard on 2LZ and 3LZ trims) that, among the range of performance readouts, displays a g-meter in Track mode.

The Z06 also offers the award-winning, industry-first Performance Data Recorder – or PDR – which enables users to record high-definition video, with telemetry overlays, of their driving experiences on and off the track. The racing-derived system is included with the available navigation system.

Editors: Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price includes destination charges but excludes tax, title, license, optional equipment and dealer fees.

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2015 brings a big change for the Chevrolet Corvette Stingray as the six-speed automatic transmission says adiós and the eight-speed automatic says hello. The new eight-speed features a more aggressive first gear ratio and lower rear axle ratio. This allows the 0-60 MPH time to drop from 3.8 to 3.7 seconds and a improved quarter mile time of 11.9 seconds (times are for the Corvette Stingray equipped with the Z51 package).

Fuel economy also sees a slight bump with Corvette Stingray now getting 29 MPG on the highway. City and combined numbers are still the same (16 and 20 MPG respectively).

"The Corvette Stingray is a great example of how we are leveraging engineering and technology to improve both efficiency and performance. No other car can match 460 horsepower, 0-60 mph in better than 3.7 seconds, and 29 mpg on the highway," said Mark Reuss, GM executive vice president, Global Product Development, Purchasing & Supply Chain in a statement.

Source: Chevrolet

William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached atwilliam.maley@cheersandgears.comor you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster

Press Release is on Page 2

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8-Speed Automatic Makes Corvette Faster, More Efficient

DETROIT – The all-new, paddle-shift eight-speed automatic transmission makes the 2015 Corvette Stingray faster and more fuel efficient, with 0-60 acceleration of only 3.7 seconds and an EPA-estimated 29 mpg on the highway.

"The Corvette Stingray is a great example of how we are leveraging engineering and technology to improve both efficiency and performance," said Mark Reuss, GM executive vice president, Global Product Development, Purchasing & Supply Chain. "No other car can match 460 horsepower, 0-60 mph in better than 3.7 seconds, and 29 mpg on the highway."

The Stingray's 0-60 performance is 0.1-second quicker than the previous six-speed automatic, contributing to a quicker quarter-mile elapsed time of 11.9 seconds – a 0.1-second improvement over the six-speed auto.

Its 29-mpg highway rating represents a 3.5-percent increase over the six-speed. New eight-speed models are EPA-rated at 16 mpg in the city and 20 mpg combined.

In fact, the Stingray's stingy fuel consumption on the highway is not only better than sports car competitors such as Porsche 911 Carrera (28 mpg), Audi R8 V-8 (20 mpg), Jaguar F-Type R (23 mpg) or Nissan GT-R (23 mpg), it tops conventional cars with smaller engines, like the Subaru Outback six-cylinder (27 mpg), Volkswagen Passat six-cylinder (28 mpg) and Mercedes-Benz C350 coupe (28 mpg).

The greater performance and efficiency enabled by the available, GM-developed Hydra-Matic 8L90 eight-speed automatic is due primarily to its 7.0 overall gear ratio spread, which enhances off-the-line performance with a more aggressive first gear ratio – 4.60 vs. 4.03 on the six-speed – helping achieve the quicker 0-60 time. It also delivers world-class shift times that rival the best dual-clutch design.

Combined with a new, numerically lower 2.41 rear axle ratio vs. the 2.56 gear used with previous six-speed automatic models, engine rpm is reduced by 8 percent (123 rpm) on the highway at 70 mph. The lower engine speed reduces fuel consumption. Z51-equipped models retain a 2.73 rear axle ratio.

The new paddle-shift eight-speed automatic complements the performance generated by the Corvette Stingray's LT1 engine – rated at 455 horsepower or 460 horses with the available performance exhaust system – which uses advanced technologies including direct injection, variable valve timing and Active Fuel Management (cylinder deactivation) to make more power with less fuel.

Advanced composite materials in the body structure and a lightweight aluminum frame, as well as aluminum and magnesium suspension components, support the Corvette's efficiency with a low curb weight of only 3,298 pounds /1,499 kg (Stingray coupe). They also enhance performance by giving the Stingray an excellent power-to-weight ratio of 7.25 – or one horsepower for every 7.25 pounds of mass. That's better than Porsche 911 Carrera's 8.7 ratio and Audi R8 V-8's 8.3 ratio.

For those who prefer a traditional manual-shifting driving experience, the 2015 Corvette Stingray is available with a seven-speed manual that delivers 0-60 times of 3.8 seconds and EPA-estimated 29 mpg on the highway.

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Chevrolet has announced that the next-generation Volt will debut at the North American International Auto Show next year. This announcement came from Tim Mahoney, Chevy's global chief marketing officer at the Center for Automotive Research Management Briefings.

“Volt is the perfect example of the ingenuity that drives everything we do at Chevrolet. Volt fully delivers on the promises of Find New Roads and will continue to provide consumers with the transportation solutions they need and deserve in the future,” said Mahoney.

We don't know much about the next-generation Volt, aside from the new model getting a more sleeker look.

Source: General Motors

William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at william.maley@cheersandgears.comor you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster.

Press Release is on Page 2

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Next Generation Volt to debut at 2015 NAIAS

• Will continue to be manufactured at GM's Detroit-Hamtramck assembly plant
  

ACME, Mich. – The next generation Chevrolet Volt will debut at the 2015 North American International Auto Show in Detroit, Global Chevrolet Chief Marketing Officer Tim Mahoney said today.

The 2016 Volt will build on the award-winning original's strong foundation of technology innovation. Volt sales were up 13 percent in July and more than 65,000 have been sold since it was introduced – making it the best-selling plug-in passenger car in the U.S. market.

"Volt is the perfect example of the ingenuity that drives everything we do at Chevrolet," Mahoney said at the Center for Automotive Research Management Briefings. "Volt fully delivers on the promises of Find New Roads and will continue to provide consumers with the transportation solutions they need and deserve in the future."

Volt owners are driving more than 63 percent of their overall miles in electric vehicle mode, collectively logging more than 500 million gas-free miles since the Volt's retail debut in 2010. That has saved more than 25 million gallons of gasoline.

While the driving range in EV mode can be affected by temperature, driving technique and terrain, the ease with which Volt drivers are avoiding gasoline use demonstrates the Volt's suitability for almost any lifestyle.

Volt owners who charge regularly typically drive more than 970 miles between fill-ups and visit the gas station less than once a month.

The Volt has received multiple customer satisfaction awards from leading third-parties. According to a recent leading independent satisfaction survey, the Volt is the highest-rated compact car under $55,000. Owners are showing their satisfaction as well. For the past three years, a leading customer publication has reported survey results showing more than 90 percent of Volt owners said they would definitely buy a Volt again.

The Volt continues to draw buyers from non-General Motors' products. In the 2013 calendar year, nearly seven of 10 new Volt buyers traded in a non-GM vehicle, the majority of which were Toyota Priuses.

Among its accolades, the 2014 Volt has been recognized for its safety, most recently receiving the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety 2014 Top Safety Pick+ designation for vehicles equipped with an available Forward Collision Alert system.

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Another piece of the puzzle has been announced for the 2015 Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon. General Motors announced this afternoon pricing for their two new midsize trucks. The Colorado will come in at $20,995 (includes a $895 destination charge) and the Canyon will start at $21,880 (includes a $925 destination charge).

Standard equipment on both models include a 2.5L DI four-cylinder engine with 200 horsepower and six-speed manual. The Colorado gets power windows with express up for the driver, a backup camera, and a locking tailgate. Canyon's standard equipment includes four-way power driver’s seat, CornerStep rear bumper, and sixteen-inch aluminum wheels.

There will be a number of configurations and options available for both trucks including the 3.6L DI V6, extended and crew cab models; six-speed automatic transmission, forward collision alert, and OnStar 4G LTE.

General Motors say the Colorado and Canyon will be available at dealers later this fall. More details on pricing and fuel economy numbers will be revealed closer to the sales date.

Source: General Motors

William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at william.maley@cheersandgears.comor you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster.

Press Release is on Page 2

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2015 Chevrolet Colorado Starts at $20,995

• Includes extended cab, 200-horsepower 2.5L engine, 6-speed manual transmission
  

DETROIT – Suggested retail prices for the 2015 Chevrolet Colorado extended-cab pickup will start at $20,995, including an $895 dealer freight charge, Chevrolet announced today.

Standard features will include a 200-horsepower 2.5L four-cylinder engine with direct fuel injection and continuously variable valve timing for strong midrange torque; a 6-speed manual transmission; power windows with express up for the driver; a rear-vision camera with dynamic guide lines; and a locking tailgate.

“Colorado is an all-new midsize pickup that offers truck customers great versatility and great value,” said Tony Johnson, Colorado marketing manager. “It will also have strong appeal for people who know they want a truck, but want one that is easier to maneuver in traffic and easier to park at work or at home.”

Available options will include a 305-horsepower 3.6L V-6, also with direct fuel injection and variable valve timing; a 6-speed automatic transmission; 4G LTE with a built-in WiFi hotspot; Forward Collision Alert and Land Departure Warning; and the GearOn™ accessory system, a comprehensive solution for organizing and carrying bikes, paddle boards and other equipment.

Colorado customers can chose from two cab configurations, extended-cab and crew-cab. Crew-cab Colorados will offer a choice of 5- or 6-foot boxes; extended-cab models come with the 6-foot box.

Other Colorado models also will offer great value. For example, the Colorado LT crew cab with 2WD and the 5-foot box has a starting price, including dealer freight, of $27,985. The Colorado Z71 crew cab 4x4 with the 5-foot box starts at $34,990.

Colorado will be available in Chevrolet dealerships nationwide in the fall of 2014. Detailed pricing and EPA fuel economy estimates will be available closer to launch.

2015 GMC Canyon Pricing Starts at $21,880

• Signature LED lighting, rear vision camera among standard equipment
  

DETROIT – Pricing for the all-new 2015 GMC Canyon mid-size pickup will start at $21,880, including a $925 dealer freight charge, GMC announced today.

“The all-new Canyon provides a one-two punch that customers tell us they’ve been waiting for,” said Canyon Marketing Manager Kenn Bakowski. “Now they can get a premium vehicle in terms of styling, features and technology, with all the inherent capabilities and maneuverability of a mid-size pickup.”

Standard equipment on the Canyon includes the 2.5L I-4 Direct Injected engine, rated at 200 horsepower, signature light-emitting diode, or LED, lighting, four-way power driver’s seat, CornerStep rear bumper, and 16-inch aluminum wheels.

Additional models will bring additional value – beginning with the SLE trim level, with prices starting at $27,520 (2WD extended cab), Canyon customers get aluminum interior trim, soft-touch instrument panel and door pads, EZ-lift and lower tailgate, eight-inch diagonal color-touch radio with Intellilink, and OnStar 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot with a three-month or three-GB trial (whichever comes first). A 4WD Canyon SLT crew cab short box model starts at $37,875, and includes the 3.6L V-6 engine with 305 horsepower, leather-appointed seating, automatic climate control, 18-inch polished cast-aluminum wheels, remote start and an automatic locking rear differential.

Available options include the 3.6L V-6 engine with direct injection and variable valve timing, a six-speed automatic transmission, Bose premium seven-speaker audio system, and the GearOn™ accessory system, a comprehensive solution for organizing and carrying bikes, kayaks and other equipment.

Canyon customers will have multiple cab and bed configurations to choose from, including extended cab models with a 6-foot 2-inch box, or crew cab models with either the 6-foot 2-inch or a 5-foot 2-inch box.

Additionally, every 2015 Canyon comes with Pro Grade Protection, which, in addition to a five-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty and three-year/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty, includes two years or 24,000 miles – whichever comes first – of standard scheduled maintenance.

The new Canyon will be in dealerships this fall. Detailed pricing information and EPA-estimated fuel economy ratings will be announced closer to vehicle availability.

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General Motors announced today that certain 2015 Chevrolet and GMC trucks and SUVs will trade in their six-speed automatic for an eight-speed automatic. Those models include,

• Chevrolet Silverado
  
• GMC Sierra
  
• GMC Yukon Denali/Yukon XL Denali
  

The catch is that all of these models must have the 6.2L V8 to get the eight-speed.

Automobile Magazine reports that the Cadillac Escalade is also line to get the eight-speed transmission in the near future.

GM says the new eight-speed is about the same weight as the outgoing six-speed, and features a wider gear spread which allows for more torque to be available in first gear.

Other details such as fuel economy numbers and technical bits will released closer to the production date in the fourth quarter.

Source: Automobile Magazine, GM

Press Release is on Page 2

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2015 Chevrolet and GMC Pickups, SUVs to Offer Eight-Speed Transmission

DETROIT – Chevrolet and GMC have confirmed a new eight-speed automatic transmission will be standard on 2015 Chevrolet Silverado, GMC Sierra and GMC Yukon Denali/Yukon XL Denali models equipped with the 6.2L EcoTec3 V-8.

The GM-developed Hydra-Matic 8L90 eight-speed is approximately the same size and weight as the Hydra-Matic 6L80 six-speed automatic. Its 7.0 overall gear ratio spread is wider than GM’s six-speed automatic transmissions, providing a numerically higher first gear ratio to help drivers start off more confidently with a heavy load or when trailering. The 8L90 also enables numerically lower rear axle ratios, which reduce engine rpm on the highway.

With 420 horsepower and 460 lb.-ft. of torque, the 6.2L EcoTec3 V-8 is the most powerful engine offered in any light-duty pickup, and offers a maximum available trailer rating of 12,000 pounds, based on SAE J2807 Recommended Practices. As with other EcoTec3 engines, it seamlessly switches to four-cylinder operation under lighter loads to improve fuel economy.

Additional technical details and the EPA estimated fuel economy will be announced closer to the start of production in the fourth quarter of 2014.

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For the past few years, Toyota was the only truck brand to use the SAE's J2807 towing standard to rate the maximum towing. Well another automaker has joined Toyota in using J2807. Today, GM announced the tow ratings for the 2015 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 and GMC Sierra 1500.

GM says both models retain maximum tow rating of 12,000 pounds. But for a Silverado/Sierra 1500 to achieve that, you need to have a two-wheel drive double-cab model equipped with the 6.2L V8 engine and maximum towing package. Other configurations of GM's full-size truck lineup have seen their rating drop by an average of 400 pounds. For example, the four-wheel drive crew cab equipped with 5.3L V8 has seen its tow rating drop from 11,200 pounds to 10,800.

"We engineered the new Silverado and Sierra 1500s to be our most capable light-duty pickups ever. For 2015, we will build on that strong foundation to implement SAE J2807 while maintaining robust towing capability across the lineup,” said Jeff Luke, executive chief engineer on trucks.

Source: General Motors

William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at william.maley@cheersandgears.comor you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster.

Press Release is on Page 2

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• Updated trailer ratings showcase Silverado’s strength and capability
  

• Available 6.2L EcoTec3 V-8 leads segment in horsepower and torque
  
• All 2015 Silverado 1500 trailer ratings based on SAE J2807
  

DETROIT – Chevrolet Silverado 1500 will maintain a 12,000-pound maximum available trailer weight rating as it transitions to new ratings for 2015 based on SAE J2807 Recommended Practices.

“We engineered the new Silverado 1500 to be our most capable light-duty pickup ever,” said Jeff Luke, executive chief engineer. “For 2015, we will build on that strong foundation to implement SAE J2807 while maintaining robust towing capability across the lineup.

“For 2015, Silverado 1500 will continue to offer trailer weight ratings up to 12,000 pounds,” said Luke. “And, we will offer a number of configurations with trailer weight ratings of 9,000 pounds or more, enabling light-duty pickup customers to choose exactly the right truck for their towing requirements.”

For 2014, Silverado, the North American Truck of the Year, led the light-duty pickup segment with a maximum available trailer weight rating of 12,000 pounds.

The stronger choice for tough towing situations

The 2015 Silverado 1500 will be available with a number of features engineered for serious towing:

• The available 6.2L EcoTec3 V-8 is the most powerful engine offered in any light-duty pickup, with 420 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque. Like other EcoTec3 engines, it combines proven performance with advanced fuel-saving technologies, seamlessly switching to four cylinders to improve efficiency in light-load driving.
  
• The available NHT max trailering package includes a 9.76-inch rear axle, heavy-duty rear springs, revised shock tuning for increased control, enhanced cooling, and an integrated trailer brake controller. Also included is an automatic locking rear differential, trailer hitch, and bumper-mounted 4- and 7-pin connectors.
  
• Combined, the 6.2L EcoTec3 V-8 and max trailering package will give the 2015 Silverado 1500 2WD double-cab a 12,000 pound trailer weight rating. The comparable 4x4 version will have a trailer weight rating of 11,900 pounds.
  
• Silverado’s standard 4.3L EcoTec3 V-6 and available 5.3L EcoTec3 V-8 also will offer significant towing capability for 2015, with maximum available trailer weight ratings of 11,200 pounds for the 5.3L V-8 and 7,600 pounds for the V-6. (SAE J2807; see attached Trailering Tables for details.)
  

Foundation for all 2015 Silverado 1500s is a fully boxed high-strength steel frame. Extensive use of high-strength steels in the frame and body structure also contributes to a quieter interior and more solid feel, and helps Silverado earn a 5-Star Overall Vehicle Score for safety in the newest government crash tests. Government 5-Star Safety Ratings are part of the U.S. Department of Transportation’s New Car Assessment Program.

Like all new Silverados, the 2015 Silverado 1500 will have the best pickup coverage in America, including a 5-year/100,000 mile limited powertrain warranty, and is part of the family of the most-dependable, longest-lasting pickups on the road.

2015 Silverado 1500s will be available starting later this summer, with full availability in Q4 of this year.

The 2014 Silverado has won more awards than any other pickup. Silverado was recently named Best Value Truck Line in America by Vincentric, in recognition that the Silverado family has the lowest cost to own of any full-size pickups.

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Five months after Chevrolet revealed to the world the 2015 Corvette Z06, the brand has announced the final performance numbers and they are impressive to say in the least. When the model was revealed at the Detroit Auto Show, Chevrolet said the Z06 was producing 'at least 625 horsepower', but they needed to do final testing to get the ratings. Well, the Z06's supercharged 6.2L V8 has been SAE-certified and is rated at 650 horsepower and 650 pound-feet of torque. Not only is this the most powerful production Corvette, it also happens to be the most powerful production model ever built by GM.

To put those numbers in perspective, the Z06 is bested by models such as,

• Ferrari LaFerrari
  
• McLaren P1
  
• Porsche 918 Spyder
  
• Ferrari F12 Berlinetta
  
• Lamborghini Aventador
  
• Ferrari FF
  

More impressive is the stats for torque. At idle, Chevrolet claims that 457 pound-feet of torque is available, and that 96 percent of peak torque arrives by 2,800 rpm.

“The LT4 small block sets a new benchmark for power and torque at GM,” said Steve Kiefer, vice president, GM Powertrain Engineering. “The engine also puts the new Corvette Z06 on par with the most powerful supercars offered in America, while delivering performance with impeccable manners that make it suitable for daily driving.”

Source: Chevrolet

William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at william.maley@cheersandgears.comor you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster.

Press Release is on Page 2

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2015 Corvette Z06 Rated at 650 Horsepower

Supercharged LT4 V-8 engine is the most powerful ever from Chevrolet

DETROIT – The all-new 2015 Corvette Z06 is the most powerful production car ever from General Motors and one of a few production cars available in the United States that delivers more than 600 horsepower.

The Z06's LT4 supercharged 6.2L V-8 engine is SAE-certified at 650 horsepower (485 kW) at 6,400 rpm and 650 lb-ft of torque (881 Nm) at 3,600 rpm.

"The LT4 Small Block sets a new benchmark for power and torque at GM," said Steve Kiefer, vice president, GM Powertrain Engineering. "The engine also puts the new Corvette Z06 on par with the most powerful supercars offered in America, while delivering performance with impeccable manners that make it suitable for daily driving."

Compared with other supercar engines, the LT4 is a veritable fountain of low-end torque, producing 457 lb-ft (619 Nm) just off idle and 625 lb-ft (847 Nm) by only 2,800 rpm. The V-12-powered Ferrari F12 Berlinetta, for example, produces about 28 percent less torque than the Z06, despite offering about 12 percent more horsepower – and its peak torque isn't achieved until 6,000 rpm. The LT4 maintains 90 percent of its peak torque, or 592 lb-ft (802 Nm), from 2,500 to 5,400 rpm.

The new LT4 engine eclipses the Porsche 911 Turbo S engine's peak power levels by 90 horsepower (67 kW) and 134 lb-ft of torque (182 Nm).

"Torque is the pulling power of an engine and the LT4's abundance of it at every rpm in the engine's speed range helps the 2015 Corvette Z06 accelerate quicker and respond nearly instantaneously," said Jordan Lee, chief engineer for Small Block engines. "It's the very definition of power on demand."

The new Z06 engine produces 40 percent more peak torque (180 lb-ft / 244 Nm) than the previous-generation's 7.0L LS7 engine – and 7.5 percent more than the supercharged 2013 Corvette ZR1's 604 lb-ft (819 Nm). At 3,200 rpm, the new LT4 surpasses the LS7 by 208 lb-ft of torque (252 Nm). On the horsepower side of the graph, the LT4's 650-hp rating is 29 percent greater than the LS7's 505 horsepower (376 kW), and 12 horses more than the ZR1's LS9 engine.

"The new LT4 engine builds on the design strengths of our previous supercharged engine and leverages the technologies introduced on the Corvette Stingray – direct injection, cylinder deactivation and continuously variable valve timing – to take Corvette performance to an all-new plateau," said Lee. "Our new, very compact supercharger also helps the engine make power more quickly, and perhaps more importantly, it helps produce more torque earlier in the rpm band."

"It's also worth mentioning that the LT4's supercar performance numbers are achieved with an engine that is nearly the same size as the very compact LT1 engine introduced in the 2014 Corvette Stingray," Lee said. "The power density of the LT4 makes it one of the smallest and lightest 650-hp engines in the industry."

LT4 details

The new LT4 engine is based on the same Gen 5 small block foundation as the Corvette Stingray's LT1 6.2L naturally aspirated engine, incorporating several unique features designed to support its higher output and the greater cylinder pressures created by forced induction, including:

• Rotocast A356T6 aluminum cylinder heads that are stronger and handle heat better than conventional aluminum heads

• Lightweight titanium intake valves

• Machined, forged powder metal steel connecting rods for reduced reciprocating mass

• High 10.0:1 compression ratio – for a forced-induction engine – enhances performance and efficiency and is enabled by direct injection

• Forged aluminum pistons with unique, stronger structure to ensure strength under high cylinder pressures

• Stainless steel exhaust manifolds and an aluminum balancer that are lighter than their LT1 counterparts

• Standard dry-sump oiling system with a dual-pressure-control oil pump.

A new 1.7L supercharger spins at up to 20,000 rpm – 5,000 rpm more than the supercharger on the Corvette ZR1's engine. The rotors are smaller in diameter, which contributes to their higher-rpm capability – and enables them to produce power-enhancing boost earlier in the rpm band. That boost is achieved more efficiently via a more direct discharge port that creates less turbulence, reducing heat and speeding airflow into the engine.

"The Small Block's cam-in-block design heritage has always enabled very high performance and responsiveness in a small, compact package – an attribute amplified by the performance of our new supercharger's design," said Lee.

The LT4 is assembled at the new Performance Build Center at GM's Bowling Green Assembly Plant and at GM's Tonawanda engine plant in New York. It is matched with a standard seven-speed manual transmission or an all-new, paddle-shift eight-speed automatic transmission built in Toledo, Ohio.

Designed to deliver shift responses on par with the world's best dual-clutch transmissions, it is the first automatic offered in a Z06. It also makes the Z06 one of the few cars this powerful to offer the choice of a conventional manual transmission or an eight-speed automatic.

The 2015 Corvette Z06 goes on sale in early 2015.