caddycruiser

Hah! I almost didn't see that end coming...but it's a good one! Great points about each, especially Lambda to Odyssey. Why in the end, after the drives, did AWD and then the extra LTZ bits get decided on? Interested to hear more about that one. The Traverse has done extremely well for Chevy dealers and they love having them. Just the right package at the right time for the right price, and damned impressive in pretty much every way. The "Chevy factor" jumped it as well, propelling ahead of all the other Lambda's it seems for sales and general interest. The Odyssey is still a formidable competitor, even near redesign again, with the main issues at this point being it could be a little more solid and use some NVH work in suspension and general insulation. Otherwise, still a great van.

Exactly. Until we see something, it's all just chatter

Ah, yes, soon I will. And the G8 too.

I know...but as bad as it is to me, that only shows how much worse those other places are. Like afraid to ever buy a car from them, bad. Yiper diapers.

Some day I'll slug through and get pictures of that thing up...my father made an album somewhere...eh... I've seen the complaints, etc., and it's certainly different, but between the shapes, the materials even, the leather & trim, the door panels, and ambient lighting, it's a cool place. No, not Mustang polished inside, but a heck of a lot more visually interesting. Takes it a bit too far for some, but anything else inside a car that looks like this on the outside would also be questioned. I like it. I'm more comfortable & at ease in my G8 interior, for sure, but wish it had at least a little of the design verve the Camaro got. They balance each other well, and are entirely different. G8 feels huge, Camaro feels big but low and tight in spots, yet still comfortable enough. Just a 2+ car and that's that.

It was actually a later in the model year run addition. All early cars from this year didn't have them, regardless of trim or options, didn't have them. Started around late August, a change by Chevy, I think to prevent more rear visibility, etc. mentions. LS - Can't have them 1LT - Not standard, come with the optional Convenience & Connectivity package 2LT - Standard 1SS - Can't have them 2SS - Standard We have no rear visibility issues as it is, again used to Malibu's, but they're so far a nice addition to have, irregardless. I want them on my G8, actually, but not out of necessity, just want them.

Yes. My issue at the moment is still, there's so much that can be done with this platform and car, but more "G8's" so to speak, imported even, or just with the remaining "something is different...it doesn't do or have what my other GM cars do..." can't work on new iterations. And, at the same time, as much as it was enjoyed, another simple Commodore re-badge honestly could do it for Chevy, but that would be old GM, not new GM who actually thinks about these things. Plants here have flexibility, but as Reuss said to Autoline when asked a lot about this, by the time you switch a car to a different country, it's actually a whole new car because suppliers have to be largely new, there's a different line, etc. Not that that's even a concern right now, it can be done, but it's just another piece of the puzzle. Just saying "well you build the Camaro in Oshawa" doesn't truly count, because that Zeta II design has the same bones but is significantly different at the same time. Not just add a sedan version to the line, and you're gold. It just has to be right, and what is right is still the question. It continues to sound like there are a LOT of plans and proposals in place, as long as they're very thought out. Especially for Chevy with a new large Epsilon II Impala apparently, finally, so far baked. That's the right choice, but then between that, the Malibu, and even the Caprice--hopefully with more updates by regular production, if it happens--where or how do you fit something else in, that could be successful?

Need it. Badly. I've wanted to do so many "great" shots with even just my G8 near the beach, near some sort of attraction, in the right lighting, etc. but all I can ever manage is driveway and click-click with my Canon P&S. No, sadly. They don't go near trees, despite them being in the background, but are outside 24/7. It certainly would be nice, but given the space and a few other issues, it is what it is and we try our best to keep everything detailed, sun-shaded, etc. It does a number, but thankfully the climate and otherwise here is nice enough to help out.

Interesting discussion. And more interesting specifically regarding Chevy and Zeta, more so, that thing we call the Impala and whatever it may be. While we were buying the Camaro this past Monday, the salesperson started chatting up the G8, of all things, and how many people he still has coming in looking for them, what's left when he goes to try a swap, etc. and what combo mine was. "It's a terrific car and platform, and such a shame, but I just really hope it comes to Chevy." All the while, the odd part being, he didn't speak of the Camaro as actually being that, I think because it's so different in so many ways. Just that the sedan, as it was, SWB Zeta sedan form was terrific to drive, look at, etc. I agree. I like everything that's new, depending on the day, mom's Camaro included--I still want one of those, but purely for the new/cool factor--but nothing has ever gotten to me like my G8. And I've never spent so much money after the fact upgrading and changing things, either. It just does it, walks the walk, talks the talk, and is a smile maker every single day. It's the package. It's all there. There are oddities that could be better, from the cheap bits of plastic on parts of the interior, to some front suspension bugs, but otherwise I've never had to return for warranty service--did do some things aftermarket, well many, but still--and it's as much a luxury cruiser as it is a head snapping beast when pounded. The bones are good and should be used as much as possible, simple enough. I was driving around today, doing a few extra laps just for fun while errand-ing, and thinking "when this car has 200k with my driving...wonder when...and wonder what I'll be doing to it then..." which is quite the sign. I hope it happens. Back when there were those brief rumors of essentially a Chevy G8 appearing, I was worried because as much as I wanted to see more of the cars, that wasn't the right move and you have to have the right products for the right brands. Not just random bits and pieces, including one--highly revered or not--that was just sold with a different nose. I'd love to see a sedan like the G8 package for Chevy, but considerably different and, IMHO, only after a more extensive refresh to hopefully align it more with what people have become used to in new NA GM products, have fresher/newer styling, etc. I still don't know how that would fit in Chevy, but it's one of those odd things that while it never sold with Pontiac until they dropped cash on the hood, despite raves reviews, it would likely take off at Chevy just because of the bowtie. That seems to happen a lot, and that brand as a whole is just so widespread and accepted, it could have one of everything and sell them all well. Or, more so, I want to actually see a GMC...think PCS's sig or much more like the Denali XT concept from not long ago...just for something really unique on these guts. I don't know. Lots in store I hope, and I'm not clear on who should get what and how, but trust in what PCS and others say, that aside from specifics, the right things will happen. Hope so.

Sounds like my mother actually. I was worried when she first drove one she'd look inside and go "ohhh...too bad..." but she hopped in the back, I kept sliding the front seat up a bit with me in it and got "See, it's fine. Okay." Power of I want it vs. reality, perhaps. I actually wanted her to see a Challenger just in case the room became an issue, but yeah, never would have happened. Even my father now. No discussion of back seat or who can go where when they're around. G8 doesn't get loaned out, there's a Subaru wagon for practical purposes. Now I just have to work on them as far as maintenance and proper treatment. Change the oil early the first time, stop the excess idling, don't have the wipers on full blast for 15 minutes when there's a single drop of water, WATCH the roads with 20" wheels, etc. She'll mandate some, but he'll have his own rules. #1 being let's sit in the car idling for 20+ minutes before you go somewhere, waiting, "so it warms up" then drive like a banshee and complain a week later "the fuel mileage sucks!". Okay. Already had the summer tires chat. "When it gets cold, they get really stiff and traction can get iffy, especially when there's moisture. Be careful, just drive with a little extra attention to this." Deer in headlights. Working on it. I even got a "so it's Australian, or a Holden underneath?" today, again. Sorta, yes. We'll get there. At least they like it.

For as long as it's been around, I still know very little about it. It's back where it sits, in project corner, and I've never touched it, looked at it up close except for once, etc. Amazing to me, it starts up and runs sounding like a newer Mopar truck...it's kind of odd given the look. But who cares about that thing, dad aside "I have a '68 Coronet...too". Yeah, whatever, go put your foot through the floor. Mom's Camaro rocks the casbah, and my G8 runs roaring circles around them all. Still, I now want a Camaro...just to have...G8 makes my heart flutter...but you know. Just look at it. And I like the DI 3.6L juice, sound, and zoom with RWD. Cool car. Oh, and as of today, she decided "I really like it more as is, without any stripes, actually" so clean it shall stay. Good choice Weathertech Floorliners, GM trunk mat & net, Camaro license trim ring, and a few other little things coming for it soon. If only I could figure out a way to get a surprise clear bra install done for her...experience from my G8 with and her variety of vehicles over the years, yeah, could definitely use it.

Absolutely. It's like guys. Some care, some don't, but gender aside there are things everyone likes. She loves cool cars and/or the latest & greatest, but at the same time is extremely picky as well. Colors, models, won't even say the name of some manufacturer's (Chrysler...), etc., she knows what she likes and doesn't. I waffle a bit more, but end up with things like my G8 and am happy in the end. Dad goes 110% looks first, then mechanicals. This Camaro driver is still a fan of things like the Kia Soul, for instance, just because. She likes it. "It's cool. I'd take one." Not knowing anything else really about it. So again, I guess looks work there too. It was the trifecta of power, looks, and from the manufacturer she loves, all rolled into one in the latest & hottest package. Click, click, click. Who cares if it's a trapeze act to get in or out of the back seat, if you dare? Not the intent.

Not nearly as bad as I thought, but coming from a new Malibu, we were all sort of used to high sills & "different" visibility. She's had zero adjustment, really, and now has backup sensors to boot. My G8 feels like a greenhouse in comparison, but still, you adjust. Thanks;-) That would be my father's "project" that appeared, oh, back in August or so? I think. Two old 90's cars wasn't enough, he needed a 3rd and a project again and bought that in western PA. It's actually a 1968 Dodge Coronet 440--has incorrect '69 front fenders on it. The 4th Coronet he's owned, and the 2nd '68.

Here you go, pictures and a link to many more from today. Enjoy http://www.cheersandgears.com/index.php/topic/49330-hot-mom-rollinin-her-new-camaro%3B/

And inside. The full album: http://s26.photobucket.com/albums/c101/caddycruiser/My%20Cars%20Stuff/10%20Camaro/December%2012%202009/

And a few more: The full album: http://s26.photobucket.com/albums/c101/caddycruiser/My%20Cars%20Stuff/10%20Camaro/December%2012%202009/

Like the title? As disturbing as it may be to me, after momzie dearest called herself the "hottest mom in town" the night we were picking up her new Camaro, yeah, it kind of stuck. And it's sort of her thing now. Short synopsis, from the "Sometimes...you just have to be proud;-)" thread, mom wanted power and cool looks, the Camaro came out & she started seeing them. Wanted to drive one. Delayed a but still said, "only want to drive" and finally did. Afterwards, that was that, and within a month, this past Monday I took her to PA, the perfect Camaro 2LT RS had just rolled off the truck that morning, plastic wrap and all, and by evening it was hers and the '08 Malibu 2LT she had for 23 months was headed to their used lot. Specs: -'10 Camaro 2LT (standard heated leather, Boston Acoustics stereo, full gauge pack on the center console, Bluetooth, dimming & heated mirrors, etc.) -Silver Ice Metallic, Jet Black Leather Interior -6 Speed Automatic Trans w/ Remote Start -RS Package (20"x8" Front and 20"x9" Rear Flangeless Aluminum Wheels, Body-Color Roof Ditch Molding, HID Headlamps with Halo Ring, Rear Spoiler, RS Unique Tail Lamps (darker)) -20" Polished Aluminum Wheels -Sticker=$30,830 Enjoy. The rest at the link below. Here's the link to a full array...lots more shots than I'll link, and more to be continually updated in the main folder. http://s26.photobucket.com/albums/c101/caddycruiser/My%20Cars%20Stuff/10%20Camaro/December%2012%202009/

Finally got a chance today. No sun, just overcast cold skies, but kept snapping until the batteries died. In the process someone saw me & happily asked "Your grandfather wants a picture of it too...can you send him one?" Sure. Gotta load them and upload soon. My photo skills are crud, but Canon helped enough. I'll probably put them in the Member's Rides section and get a link here.

ROPOS...we have one of those...or as I call it, the Flinstone mobile...literally...it is...pretty obvious reason

You're gonna need a Pennsylvania allergy shot then...it's sort of a disease there. Well, then again, not nearly as much Southeast as, uh, EVERY other area... Thanksgiving chat with my grandfather about how grandma's GARAGED '99 Intrigue had the gas tank filler tube rust badly & start leaking/throwing codes... ...I was thankful we moved & afraid to even turn my G8 on, in fear of getting PA dust in it somewhere...

Okay, I do think the car perked up a little more, a week in. It's all in small steps, but just moving around in my daily driving, especially when it's cold, it seems to be a little freer and able to pull harder. Small difference, but noticeable. And praise the Lord for the new Goodyear Eagle GT tires. Dramatic, huge, holy crap difference. Don't have the sharp edged feeling of the Bridgestones at times, but no real difference in handling, a much smoother ride, no shakes or shimmies regardless of the temp or how long it sat, traction all over and SILENT. Add in that they're very blocky and wide, with a huge rim protector, they even changed the look. Well worth the $$, and a necessity at that point, by 14k. Exhaust+tires, totally changed car that again makes me smile even more.

66stang...that is interesting. They shall find lots and lots of buyers for these. On another note, I was just thinking again, even though the '11 Mustang now, in such a "really?!" ploy will have exactly 1 more HP and mpg in V6 form, will it still even matter? Admittedly, the Mustang refinement and interior are a higher rung up, or just typical new Ford, but in cars like this SO much is based on the look and that is the biggest issue. It looks like a mildly refreshed '09 and no one cares, it seems. Even with more power, they'll get more buyers...but from everything I've continued to read and hear from actual buyers, there's more to it than that. Heck, even my father--the iffy one in all of this--commented a few weeks back that "it just can't compare, at all" focusing I think on design alone between the Mustang and Camaro after the news mentioned the monthly sales again. It's interesting. I gotta say, I love the sound and feel of the DI 3.6L/6-spd auto in this car and others. I got a preview in my Malibu, shuddering FWD transmission aside and it's horrible shifting program that drove me nuts--like my G8, the stock trans off the line is a beauty in this car--and with the DI, it has an extra little hum or shriek and just MOVES. I think in time it will also prove to be more efficient, heavier, RWD, or otherwise, than the 4-cyl Malibu because a) almost twice the power, b) excellent 6-spd, and c) DI. The Malibu, and I never believed this until I drove it on the highway for the first time--really--on Monday, could never cruise getting 30mpg or better. It would max around 28 and the revs would remain so high with the 4-spd, there was just no way for it not to. It moved decently, I actually thought, but for a 4-cyl mid-size sedan it struggled to get highway mileage even my '09 3.6/6-spd car would, without trying, on the highway. I finally believe my father about it after I saw it for my own eyes. Thankfully, the now "favorite" 2.4L/6-spd cars that should have been out from day one are doing considerably better. Otherwise, that car was terrific, and still impressed with the silence, solidity (not a single peep, creak, etc. from anything after 22k not always easy miles), and a great interior.

Yeah, and I thought she'd want one after it was a must have in the Malibu, but nope. One to save $$ and also just for the "eh" factor, that she never used it enough and the wind noise open always is more distracting. All dark inside, but cool. And the light piping along the door panels and in different spots keeps it very visually intriguing even at night. I'm now so used to the hearty gurgling burble out my Corsa'd G8 GT 6.0L tips, the sound of the Camaro is cool. Very OHC V6, with an extra little something due to the DI, and a nice shriek under harder power. Loved listening to it on the way home, and it certainly seems to scoot. As more and more reviews say, small block V8 insanity aside, the V6 Camaro still continues as "the" package from a power, weight, handling, and general feel, that make it quite the package.

For sure. Like I said, this was the first time EVER she said yes to the extended GMPP warranty...so...yeah...I see this going well for a while. I just got a chance to peek around it again and the back seat is certainly, uh, no cross your legs lounge anymore. Floor mats from the Malibu had to fold in half...more reason just to be HER car, and I'm all for it Specs: -'10 Camaro 2LT (standard heated leather, Boston Acoustics stereo, full gauge pack on the center console, Bluetooth, dimming & heated mirrors, etc.) -Silver Ice Metallic, Jet Black Leather Interior -6 Speed Automatic Trans w/ Remote Start -RS Package (20"x8" Front and 20"x9" Rear Flangeless Aluminum Wheels, Body-Color Roof Ditch Molding, HID Headlamps with Halo Ring, Rear Spoiler, RS Unique Tail Lamps (darker)) -20" Polished Aluminum Wheels -Sticker=$30,830 Fresh build from late November, like I said, literally just rolled off the truck with plastic & all Monday morning. LT V6 cars with the RS package are now under extreme restriction, largely because GM would like to get some non-RS's out there and use more of the RS parts for all the SS's people are clamoring for, so even better it is that--and the dealer had a few all the same! It was meant to be. I got worried when we pulled in because I didn't see a silver one, then "did you see it...uh, over there...". While the sales guy was busy, we walked over and she said it had to be hers just from rounding the corner and seeing the silver+black+polished 20" wheels. "Perfect, I hope he makes me a deal, because I must have it." Then waiting inside he asked if she wanted to drive and she said no...she'd driven another one... ...until I took charge and said yes. Every car is different and the best way to really sell yourself is drive the ONE...good move, because that truly sealed it for her. She said something again about stripes yesterday, I think because she's still interested in them, but I'm kind of glad it's "clean" without. Classy and high end, at the same time. I like it. We'll see after there are more...well...everywhere. So far kind of cool, of what there are, silver isn't overly common vs. the typical yellows and blacks, and I saw her on the highway the other day when I was at work and admired. Also glad it has the polished wheels...she never liked, for some reason, the 2LT wheels on her Malibu and was only concerned they not be dull or dark again, and these do the part nicely. Better pictures with an actual camera (I only see it in the dark during the week), it's going to need pre-winter detailed, etc. Christmas shopping was made easy, I got her Weathertech Floorliners, a proper license plate ring with a non cheesy Chevy emblem & Camaro, and then a GM accessories trunk mat and cargo net. Next, still need to find a spare tire & jack kit, since that's the one semi important option the car doesn't have. Another blurry one from early morning:

Maybe a few horses. It feels a little peppier/more open, especially the first night I drove it home in the cold, it would break them loose a hair easier. Now with new stickier tires also installed it feels extremely strong and the sound is beautiful, it just pulls hard & smooth. About a week in on a system that was already broken in and no issues. This is on a car that's custom tuned for 93 octane & with a revised trans tune, and a Roto-Fab cold air intake as well. Feels good. Don't know if the exhaust makes a huge difference, but especially when with a tune when dyno'd it seems like they always gain a few. And a friend with the same car in PA who's had a Corsa for more time claimed his picked up 1-2mpg with it. Haven't seen that, but with stickier tires, it's probably balanced out with new rolling resistance at the same time.