Chevrolet Cars Online

2010 Chevrolet Camaro Ute

2011-01-04T06:19:00.001-08:00

2010 Chevrolet Camaro Ute

The classic coupe and convertible form of the Chevrolet Camaro is indeed something that would hold anyone’s interest with intent for quiet and intensive period of time. Yet tuners feel that even such cars can be taking to that level where they are no more the normal beauties. Luke Bromidge form Victoria did such thinking and turned this sedate coupe and a convertible Camaro into a muscled truck.
Customizing the front end, that will transform any Holden VE Commodore into a Camaro was what the tuner from Victoria set about doing and achieved at the end of months of hard work. The end result would sure be pleasing for a VE Commodore owner, but for the Camaro owner the look may not be so much likeable.

First Picked Up At Radley Chevrolet

2011-01-02T00:03:00.001-08:00

Chevrolet Volts

The first two Chevrolet Volt electric cars were picked up by their owners this week at Radley Chevrolet in Fredericksburg.

The dealership on Jefferson Davis Highway in Fredericksburg is one of a few Chevrolet dealerships in the United States authorized to sell the electric Volt, since the dealership agreed to train key sales staff and repair staff on the vehicle’s specifications, install a electric vehicle charging station, and purchase tools for the Volt.

In addition to the metropolitan Washington D.C. market, the Volt is being sold at select dealerships in California, Connecticut, Michigan, New Jersey, New York and Texas. Radley Chevrolet has fielded calls from interested buyers as far away as Florida, said Jonathan Pittman, general manager at Radley Chevrolet.

The first owner to collect their Volt on Wednesday was publicity shy, so Thursday night I spoke with the second owners to pick-up their pre-ordered Volt, Nick and Wendy Sours of Portsmouth, Va. They drove two hours from home Thursday night to pick it up at 8 p.m.

Nick Sours, a structural engineer, first saw the Volt three years ago at the Virginia Motor Trend International Auto Show and was intrigued.

2010 Chevrolet Cobalt

2010-06-26T18:16:00.000-07:00

The 2010 Chevrolet Cobalt is priced at a relatively cheap $14,990 dollars which makes it the choice of a car for those looking to not stretch their budgets too much but still find a relatively good and decent brand new car. The Cobalt has a few added advantages in the all new version of the car, there are however certain shortcoming which the car make Chevrolet will need to look upon and tackle so that the 2011 version is free of such limitations.

Today's the Day for Final Chevy Cobalt

2010-06-25T03:09:00.000-07:00

This will be the last Chevy Cobalt to come off the Lordstown assembly line.

The final underbody for the Chevrolet Cobalt rolled off the production line at the metal fabrication plant here at 12:40 Tuesday morning and in the next few hours or so, the last Chevrolet Cobalt will roll off the line at the assembly plant.

The plant then will begin its traditional two-week shutdown for the July 4th holiday, but preparation for the launch of the Chevrolet Cruze will continue. The production of saleable Cruzes begins next month, with the first finished models coming off the line in August.

The Cruze, considered a flagship model for GM's Chevrolet brand, is to arrive in dealerships by September with a base sticker price of $16,900.

Lordstown won production of the Cobalt in 2002 after the plant secured competitive labor agreements with its two unions, United Auto Workers Local 1112 and 1714.

Those agreements were instrumental in convincing GM to pump in about $1 billion so the massive plant could retool its production lines as it phased out the Chevrolet Cavalier and Pontiac Sunfire. That new investment included a $250 million paint shop, one of the most sophisticated of its kind in North America.

Chevrolet Malibu Car Review

2010-06-25T03:08:00.000-07:00

The Chevrolet Malibu is a superb midsize sedan. Fitting in the lineup just below the larger Impala, the Malibu competes with the Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Nissan Altima, and Ford Fusion. Malibu blends a smooth ride with responsive handling, a quiet interior, effective crash performance and noteworthy build quality. For GM, it is a distinctly different level of car. Malibu is a midsize sedan with four-cylinder, V6, and hybrid gas-electric powertrains.

We found the Malibu to be a smooth, comfortable sedan with plenty of power when equipped with the V6. It strikes a nice balance between well-controlled handling and an even ride. Overall, the new Malibu feels smooth and is pleasant to drive. The cabin is nicely designed, attractive, and everything is easy to operate, though there are some hard plastics that detract from an otherwise first-rate interior. The seats are comfortable, with plenty of front-seat room and generous space in the rear.

Malibu offers value, with a lower purchase price, and fuel economy: EPA City/Highway ratings of 22/33 mpg for the four-cylinder with six-speed automatic, 17/26 mpg for the V6 engine and six-speed automatic, and 26/34 mpg for the Hybrid.

2010 Chevrolet Silverado HD Pick up truck details

2010-06-21T20:18:00.000-07:00

2011 Chevrolet Silverado HD heavy-duty trucks, engineer Brent Deep towed a 20,000-pound (9,072 kg) trailer for 245 miles (400 km) along I-70 between Denver and Grand Junction, Colo. - and he barely touched the brakes the entire way.

Deep relied on the Chevrolet Silverado's new, smart exhaust brake system to slow the truck/trailer combination on descents, helping prove the new system is suitable for the most demanding conditions. It was a drive across the heart of the Rocky Mountains and some of the interstate system's steepest grades, with altitudes ranging from Denver's approximately 5,000 feet (1,525 m) to more than 11,100 feet (3,400 m) at the Eisenhower Tunnel.

"It takes some courage to leave your foot off the brake, but the Chevrolet Silverado's Duramax engine and Allison transmission perform the task with smoothness and confidence that really impresses," said Deep. "Better still, the exhaust brake system can help extend brake pad life and help avoid overheating the brakes on long descents."

The exhaust brake system feature is just one of the elements that makes the new 2011 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD and 3500HD models the most capable in the industry. They go on sale this summer.

"We sought the input of our customers during the development of the 2011 Chevrolet Silverado HD to deliver a truck that meets or exceeds their every need," said Jim Campbell, Chevrolet general manager. "It offers greater strength and capability - including class-leading fuel economy, trailering and payload ratings - and has more power, accelerates quicker and has lower emissions. That sounds like the very definition of no compromises."

2011 Chevrolet Volt Details, Price and Pictures

2010-06-21T20:16:00.000-07:00

The Chevrolet Volt heralds a new era in the electrification of the automobile by creating a new class of vehicle known as the Extended-Range Electric Vehicle, or E-REV.

The Volt uses electricity to move the wheels at all times and speeds. For trips up to 60 km, the Chevrolet Volt is powered only by electricity stored in its 16-kWh, lithium-ion battery. When the battery's energy is depleted, a gasoline/E85-powered engine generator seamlessly provides electricity to power the Volt's electric drive unit while simultaneously sustaining the charge of the battery. This mode of operation extends the range of the Volt for several hundred additional kilometers, until the vehicle's battery can be charged. Unlike a conventional battery-electric vehicle, the Volt eliminates "range anxiety," giving the confidence and peace of mind that the driver will not be stranded by a depleted battery.

The Chevrolet Volt can be plugged into a standard household 230v outlet for charging. The vehicle's intelligent charging technology enables the Volt's battery to be charged in less than three hours. Charge times are reduced if the battery has not been fully depleted. GM estimates that it will cost less than one euro at night for a full charge that will deliver up to 60 km of electric driving.

Charged up for performance

On the road, the Chevrolet Volt offers spirited driving performance in a remarkably quiet interior. More than 220 lithium-ion cells contained within the Volt's battery pack provide ample power. The Volt's electric drive unit delivers the equivalent of 150 hp/110 kW, 370 Nm of instant torque, and a top speed of 161 km/h. The lack of engine noise, combined with special sound-deadening materials, makes the Chevrolet Volt an extremely quiet vehicle to drive.

GM estimates that the Chevrolet Volt will cost about two euro cents per km to drive while under battery power, compared to 12 euro cents per km using gasoline priced at €1.50 per liter. For an average driver who drives 60 km per day (or 22,000 km per year), this amounts to cost savings of €2,200 annually. Using night-time electricity rates, GM estimates that an electrically driven kilometer in a Volt will be about one-sixth of the cost of a conventional gasoline-powered vehicle.

Chevrolet Camaro Suspension Parts Test

2010-05-29T02:24:00.002-07:00

It should come as no surprise that getting good short times from a stock 2010 Camaro on 20-inch wheels and street tires is no easy task. In fact, for our driver, making consistent passes proved almost impossible, as the stock wheel/tire and rearend combo would either spin the tires or engage in violent wheelhop, resulting in aborted runs and potentially broken parts. This, as you can imagine, was frustrating and somewhat embarrassing, with other people at the track constantly asking "why them 2010 Camaros can't ever run fast?" and "why are they slower than the old ones?" The answer to both questions came directly back to weight and traction. So, like any self-respecting track junkies, we set out to fix our wheelhop and wheelspin issues once and for all by adding some sticky tires, some invincible axles, and a set of bridge-truss-inspired rear tailing arms.

Our first issue was finding a tire that would work on our 2010, a task that is more complicated than it seems. First and foremost, the stock tires are tall, coming in at 28.6 inches, which means our drag radial also needed a lot of height. For comparison, the typical 275/50/15 drag radial is only 25.8-inches tall, which would look and drive horribly on a Camaro of this size. Of course, even if we could run a tire like that, it would never fit over our Brembo brakes, which seemingly need an 18-inch wheels at minimum to clear. With that information in hand, we set out to test-fit wheels and tires, finally settling on a set of used 18x9.5 C6 Z06 front wheels wrapped in a pair of massive 305/45/18 Nitto NT05R drag radials.

Chevrolet surprises family

2010-05-29T02:24:00.001-07:00

The Chevrolet Cobalt

Wednesday May 26th started off like any other for 29 year old mom-to-be, Amanda McBride. While she was sitting at work, she felt what she believed to be the beginning of labor pains. Jumping into her 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt, she left in a rush on her way to becoming a new mom. Due to her husband having a health issue that can cause seizures when behind the wheel, she swung past her house and picked him on her way to the hospital. Although making good time, Amanda’s water broke, while she was still driving, before arriving at her destination. Her husband suggested they stop and call an ambulance, but determined Amanda thought she could make it to the hospital before the ambulance could make it to her… so she kept driving.

Chevrolet, nee Heartbeat of America

2010-05-29T02:22:00.000-07:00

As we enter Memorial Day weekend--which commemorates the U.S. men and women who have died in military service, most of them overseas--it's worth highlighting the increasingly global nature of that all-American car brand, Chevrolet.

From 1986 to 1992, Chevy's ad slogan was "the heartbeat of America," perhaps a reference back to its campaign of the 1960s, "See the USA in a Chevrolet." Memorable pre-CGI image: Dinah Shore perched on a rock tower with an Impala sedan.

2011 Chevrolet Volt Test Drive

2010-05-22T10:31:00.001-07:00

GM provided electric-car enthusiasts and a few journalists the opportunity to test drive the new 2011 Chevy Volt in a parking lot near AT&T Park in San Francisco. After a conversation with Team Volt and a few minutes behind the wheel, here are the insights we had.

The electricity-driven miles are simple, but the charge-sustaining mode is more difficult. The most famous aspect of the Volt is that it can drive up to 40 miles on electric power alone before the engine kicks in to maintain the charge of the battery pack. During those 40 electric miles, the Volt acts exactly like a pure EV (electric vehicle). The ride is smooth, fast, and very quiet. More drive time is required to make a judgment on the dash instrumentation, but it seemed a bit daunting at first blush.Really, the biggest challenge facing the Volt is what occurs after the 40 electric miles. “The EV mode was the easy thing,” explained Tony Posawatz, the Volt’s vehicle line director. The difficult part, he said, was employing the Volt’s high-tech software to “blend and smooth out” when and how the traditional engine is activated to lengthen the driving range.“At low speeds, the engine almost never comes on in charge sustaining mode. At high speeds, we take advantage of running the RPMs a little bit higher, but never to a point where it affects the pleasability of the car. The engine is never roaring.”
Extra driver controls are forthcoming. Several weeks ago, we learned that the Chevy Volt will offer “mountain mode” that lets drivers choose a higher amount of battery charge to offer additional resources for steep, long uphill drives. Posawatz said that the European model of the Volt will most likely offer a “hold” option, but the name of the feature might change. “You can hit a button and wherever you’re at on your state of charge, it will hold the charge sustain at that point. It’s like saving your EV miles,” Posawatz explained. This option could be perfect for conserving your EV miles after a long highway drive in a high-traffic city, where EV miles would probably be more helpful.
Auto connectivity is crucial. Yesterday, GM offers additional details about its partnership with Google and also showed that the mobile app for the Volt will let drivers schedule and monitor charging from wherever they are. The app will also have the ability to open and close doors from any location and download directions from the Web to the vehicle’s navigation system.And that’s not all…“If you understand a person’s driving patterns, you can perhaps in the future modify the operation of the vehicle, contoured to his or her driving pattern,” explained Posawatz. He said that the goal is to understand the driver’s needs and real-world behavior, possibly including where to position charging stations.

Chevrolet celebrating Le Mans debut with one-off 2011 Corvette Z06

2010-05-22T10:30:00.000-07:00

There will be a special one-off version of the 2011 Corvette Z06 from Chevrolet to mark the 50th anniversary of Corvette making its first appearance at the coveted Le Mans 24 Hours race.

2011 Corvette Z06

The most distinguishing feature of the car will be its number plaque sporting ‘VIN 0001′ along with the same blue and white paint scheme that the 1960 Corvette too had donned and had gone on to win the race in its class that was stages half a century ago. And the good thing is the car will be up for sale later in the year for a cool $85,000 price tag.

Apart from that, the buyer will also have to fork out another three hundred thousand bucks as donation to the National Corvette Museum. And for all the money, what the buyer gets is the special edition Corvette Z06 including the Z07 performance package. The Z07 performance package is in essence the CFZ black carbon fiber package that also has some features from the ZR1 bundled in it.

Chevrolet Volt

2010-05-22T10:29:00.000-07:00

Talk about expectations. The Chevrolet Volt, General Motor's extended range electric car, can't just make some modest profits for General Motors.

Now it's expected to save the state of Michigan, says the Associated Press. "The Volt is crucial. So much depends on this car. It cannot fail," the story states.

Yikes. No pressure, here. The car is considered so important because Michigan isn't content with just making cars anymore. Everyone does that. Now it wants to be a high-tech center.

"Detroit," Mike Smith, head of the Reuther Library, is quoted by the AP as saying. It "has two choices: Remake itself. Or die on the vine." He pauses. "We HAVE to reinvent ourselves."

2011 Chevrolet Cruze

2010-05-08T08:34:00.000-07:00

2011 Chevrolet Cruze

When the 2011 Chevrolet Cruze goes on sale later this year, 75 percent of the Chevrolet brand's vehicles will offer six-speed transmissions, according to General Motors.

GM states that six-speed automatics are smoother, more responsive, and offer up to 4 percent better fuel economy than traditional four-speed automatics. The 2010 Chevy Malibu, for example, gets 33 mpg highway when equipped with an Ecotec 2.4 liter inline four and six-speed automatic transmission while the popular 2010 Chevy Camaro gets 29 mpg highway with its direct-injection 3.6-liter V-6 mated with either a six-speed automatic or manual transmission. And the Chevrolet Cruze Eco, which will arrive standard with a six-speed manual, delivers a staggering 40 mpg highway while also being able to go from zero to 60 mph in less than 10 seconds.

Spy Shots: Chevrolet Camaro Bumblebee

2010-05-08T08:33:00.000-07:00

TF3 Bumblebee Camaro

If there's one thing the paparazzi is good for, it's stalking the likes of Megan Fox. And while we could usually care less about the comings and goings of the Xbox crowd's favorite young starlet, occasionally she wanders into our neck of the interwebs by getting dangerously close to cars like the new Bumblebee Camaro. Fox is currently shooting the next installment of the explosion-rich Transformers saga, and was spotted parading around what appears to be the next iteration of everyone's favorite plucky Autobot.

Chevrolet Volt MPV5 at 2010 Beijing Auto Show

2010-04-29T19:01:00.000-07:00

Chevrolet Volt MPV5 Concept

GM has been fortifying the upcoming 2011 Chevrolet Volt. GM has been keen on infusion of fuel saving drive train in other vehicles including sedans and MPVs.

One of the first segment that GM hinted of inducting Voltec plug-in hybrid system was MPV, and in 2008 GM unveiled the Orlando concept which shares the same platform as the Volt.

Now in 2010, GM has debuted a concept crossover version of its Chevrolet Volt extended-range electric vehicle with the voltec plug in Hybrid system. The concept car is 18 centimeters longer, 7 centimeters wider and 18 centimeters taller than the production version, which is due for release in 2011. The five-passenger MPV features up to 1,764.1 liters of cargo space with the seats folded and 863.7 liters of space behind the second row.

The concept has been designed at GM Design studio in Australia & Detriot. GM says it can manage 51.5 km on pure electric propulsion. When the battery is drained, a 1.4-liter engine generator takes the charge to sustain the battery and provide up to 482 km of electric propulsion.

“The Volt MPV5 concept demonstrates the flexibility of the Voltec propulsion system, which can produce enough electric power to propel a range of vehicles, from a compact sedan like the Volt to a crossover like the Volt MPV5 concept,” said Doug Parks, GM’s Global Vehicle Chief Engineer for Electric Vehicles.

Preview: 2011 Chevrolet Cruze

2010-04-29T18:59:00.000-07:00

2011 Chevrolet Cruze
The initial impression of Chevrolet’s new compact Cruze sedan is that it’s a mini-Malibu — and that opinion sits well with the bow-tie brass. Their intention is to deliver mid-sized comfort, dynamics and amenities, but at compact-sized pricing and fuel efficiency. And although pricing and final fuel numbers won’t be known for several months, this global product is right on target with its other objectives.

The Cruze is already available in 60 markets around the world, but North Americans won’t get their hands on it until the third quarter of this year. With the compact category evolving as the fastest-growing segment in the industry (it’s expected to be the second-largest in the United States by 2012), coupled with the consumer trend to downsize, the timing is right for this car. In fact, it is expected to be General Motors’ single largest volume small-car line globally.
During the preview at General Motors’ Milford proving grounds, Chevy executives described the Cruze as a “transformational” car for the brand, a product that will be sought after by consumers and will be better than competitive models such as the Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla. It’s expected to generate “huge volume for the brand” and, as a major player for GM globally, the team working on developing the North American edition is enduring unprecedented scrutiny.

As a result of that corporate focus, the Cruze is undergoing intensive testing here, even though it’s a model already on sale elsewhere. For example, although it has already earned five-star-equivalent crash ratings in several overseas markets, including Korea, China, India, Australia and Europe, the North American version is undergoing extensive additional evaluations at GM’s vehicle safety facility.

2011 Chevrolet Cruze

2010-04-19T04:38:00.000-07:00

2011 Chevrolet Cruze was enough to confirm that GM’s biggest challenge won’t be meeting or exceeding the competition, but sweeping away all those past perceptions of GM small cars.

Among GM’s homegrown compacts, the Cavalier was always a step behind the competition, while the current Cobalt, which the Cruze replaces, was reasonably comfortable and fuel-efficient but never a standout in most other respects.

To put it bluntly, it simply didn’t have the zippy yet refined feeling that a lot of today’s most acclaimed compacts like the Mazda3, the Volkswagen Jetta, the Honda Civic, or even the new Suzuki Kizashi or Kia Forte, all manage to some degree.

The Cruze, thankfully, finds that mojo without busting our bums in the process or giving up any features. And, as we’ll tell you more about below, it’s looking to be a product that will emerge near the top of the segment in every category.

But the 2011 Cruze doesn’t break entirely free from one mold: Its exterior is a little conservative, almost a little homely, and looks more like a blunted Malibu than it probably should. While most people will likely agree that the exterior styling of the upcoming 2012 Ford Focus, expected early next year, is a lot more visually exciting than that of the Cruze, a quick drive of the Chevy’s new compact sedan is all it took to convince us that it will be a very strong contender, and perhaps superior in many ways.

2010 Chevrolet Traverse LT FWD Road Test

2010-04-06T17:55:00.000-07:00

2010 Chevrolet Traverse
Why did the front-wheel-drive Traverse use more dino-juice per fathom? Well, the EPA numbers differ by only 1 mpg in both city and highway tests (17/24 for the FWD model versus 16/23 for AWD), so any real-world fuel-economy advantage likely would be negligible anyway. The two weren’t driven on identical loops, which was a factor, and conditions often were wet during our test, making takeoff tricky with 281 hp and 266 lb-ft of torque coursing through just two wheels. We basically stayed in the throttle until we were moving at a satisfactory pace, so your mileage may vary—scratch that, will vary and surely improve with a more measured driving style.

During a dry day at the test track, the FWD Traverse posted a 7.3-second 0-to-60-mph time, 0.3 second quicker than the all-wheel-driver. It also won in the quarter-mile, but just barely: a 15.8-second jog at 91 mph versus 15.9 seconds at 88 mph for the all-wheel-driven crossover. Despite the weight disparity, braking performance from 70 mph was spot-on equal—which is to say dismal—at 194 feet. Skidpad grip was another repeatable experiment, measuring 0.79 g for both iterations.

2011 Chevrolet Cruze

2010-04-06T17:54:00.000-07:00

2011 Chevrolet Cruze

The all new 2011 Chevy Cruze has enough test miles on its tires to circle the Earth over 160 times. The Cruze made a lot of stops as it went around the globe, each one seemingly more punishing than the last. Chevy Cruze took on driving rain, mountains, deserts, potholes, mud, bad roads, ice, snow, dry heat, humidity and more. After all that, it finally hit the test track and showed just how fun it was to drive. Even after 4,000,000 test miles, there’s much more of the Cruze story to tell. To keep current, sign up for email updates. We’ll keep you posted on every detail as soon as it becomes available. Cruze arrives in the third quarter of 2010.

Chevrolet Volt Hits Another Milestone

2010-04-06T17:53:00.000-07:00

2011 Chevrolet Volt Picture

First pre-production Chevrolet Volt rolls off the assembly line in Michigan.

2011 Chevrolet Volt Picture

GM is looking to ensure the hotly anticipated Chevrolet Volt will meet "quality targets" before it goes into regular production.

2011 Chevrolet Volt Picture

Detroit-Hamtramck Assembly Plant will make more pre-production Volts in the runup to the EV's on-sale date.

Chevrolet Will Sell You a Camaro Indy 500

2010-04-06T17:51:00.000-07:00

2010 Chevrolet Camaro Indy 500 Pace Car Picture

Chevrolet will sell 200 replicas of its 2010 Indy 500 Camaro pace car.

2010 Chevrolet Camaro Indy 500 Pace Car Picture

The limited-edition pace car replica has Chevrolet's 400-hp 6.2-liter V8 and a six-speed automatic transmission.

2010 Chevrolet Camaro Indy 500 Pace Car Picture

The Inferno Orange cars will be 2SS models with the RS appearance package.

2010 Chevrolet Camaro Indy 500 Pace Car Picture

The cars will be sold through 187 Chevrolet dealers selected on the basis of their 2009 retail sales.

2010 Chevrolet Suburban Diomond Edition Pictures

2010-03-16T07:20:00.000-07:00

2010 Chevrolet Suburban
2010 Chevrolet Suburban
2010 Chevrolet Suburban

New Chevrolet Corvette Z06 edition

2010-03-12T18:03:00.001-08:00

2011 Corvette Z06 Carbon Limited Edition coming in late summer. Price wasn't announced.

This limited-edition Z06 will boast Brembo carbon ceramic brakes with specific dark gray metallic calipers. These powerful brakes were first introduced on the ZR1. Black wheels -- 19 inches in front and 20 inches in the rear -- set off the car's jaunty look. It also has Magnetic Selective Ride Control for the first time on the Z06 and enhanced cooling. The car also features a special carbon pattern engine cover.

Chevrolet Camaro Convertible spotted in Michigan

2010-03-12T18:02:00.000-08:00

Auto supplier Magna International Inc. will supply GM with the tops for the new Chevrolet Camaro convertible. The Camaro Convertible will hit dealerships in the first quarter of 2011. GM estimates production of about 20,000 units for the first-year.

SPIED: Chevrolet's Next-Gen Malibu

2010-03-12T18:01:00.000-08:00

General Motor's filed for a patent for an up and coming design.
Strangely enough it looks exactly like the Chevrolet Malibu prototype I saw in Detroit late last summer. Hence, the Malibu has been exposed just like the SLS Roadster.

Although I cannot remember every bit of its design, I do recall it having the four taillights and a Cruze-like grille. There is also one distinct bit about its interior that I cannot shake out of my mind. I remember it very vividly, but that is not a positive thing. You'll see eventually, that is if they stick with their interior design themes.

2012 Chevrolet Aveo sedan shows its face

2010-02-24T10:11:00.001-08:00

After seeing the Chevrolet Aveo RS Concept at the 2010 Detroit Auto Show, we pretty excited to see the new GM compact enter production next year. Here are the first official photos of the production 2012 Aveo sedan leaked during a presentation earlier this morning.

Like the concept, we expect the 1.4L I-4-cylinder Ecotec turbocharged making 138-hp to enter production in the top-of-the-line trim. A naturally aspirated 1.4L 4-cylinder version is also expected.

2012 Chevrolet Aveo

2010-02-24T10:10:00.001-08:00

2012 Chevrolet Aveo

With the recent unveiling of the Aveo RS concept at the Detroit Auto Show and spy shots of Chevrolet's diminutive hatch testing in Michigan, Chevy is obviously prepping all-new Aveo for prime time. And judging by these pics procured by KickingTires after a presentation by Bob Lutz, the Aveo is getting a much-needed makeover both inside and out.

Chevy Volt to hit the roads (quietly) soon

2010-02-17T01:21:00.000-08:00

Enthusiasts will find plenty to like about the Volt, our reviewer says

Since its announcement three years ago, the Chevrolet Volt has seemed like one of those perpetually out-of-reach technologies, like fusion power or flying cars.

No longer.

General Motors is gearing up now to manufacture the Volt beginning this spring, reported Tony Posawatz, Chevrolet Volt and global electric vehicle line director.

GM's Chevrolet Volt

2010-02-17T01:19:00.000-08:00

Meet the 2011 Chevy Volt, General Motors answer to hybrid cars like Toyota's Prius.

You won't get the chance to buy it until the end of the year, but ABCNews.com was invited to preview the Volt on a closed course outside RFK Stadium in Washington D.C.

If you haven't driven an electric or hybrid car before, the first thing you notice after stepping on the gas-peddle is how quiet it is. An electric engine powered by a 400 pound lithium-ion battery allows the car to whisper along while barely making a sound.

You also notice how quick the Volt is. Because of the way electric motors are designed, power and torque are available from the starting line.

2011 Chevrolet Volt to cold-weather testing in Canada

2010-02-17T01:17:00.000-08:00

2011 Chevy Volt

The Olympics aren't the only interesting and noteworthy event currently taking place in Canada. General Motors says it has shipped its fleet of 2011 Chevrolet Volt test vehicles to the cold and snowy climes of Kapuskasing, about 500 miles northwest of Toronto. Current temperature? A frigid 23-degrees Fahrenheit, or -5 Celsius.

This latest test session comes just months after The General ran its fleet of Volts through Death Valley (about 100 degrees F) and the mountains of Tennessee. Not surprising, really. After all, every new vehicle goes through a rigorous set of test cycles, and, as the first mass-production, mass-market extended-range electric vehicle ever attempted, it's of the utmost importance that GM gets this vehicle right the first time.

2010 LOMA Performance Chevrolet Corvette C6 BlackforceOne

2010-01-07T10:57:00.000-08:00

Chevrolet Corvette C6 BlackforceOne

2010 Chevrolet Camaro SS Indianapolis 500 Pace Car

2010-01-07T10:52:00.000-08:00

2010 Chevrolet Camaro SS Indianapolis 500 Pace Car

Chevrolet Recalls 22,000 Corvettes Because Roof Could Fly Off

2010-01-01T04:47:00.000-08:00

2007 Chevrolet Corvette.

General Motors recently recalled 22,000 Corvettes because the roof might fly off, and what do you think kicked the company into action? Complaints on the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Web site from owners? Was it the safety agency itself, worried about the complaints? Concerns raised by the Federal Aviation Administration?

Nope. It was the Japanese Ministry of Land Infrastructure and Transport, unhappy about the problem on imported Corvettes, according to a letter from G.M. to the safety agency. That prompted G.M. to examine the problem in the United States and eventually inform the N.H.T.S.A. that it planned a recall.

The recall covers 2005-7 Corvettes and the 2006-7 Z06, all with a body-colored, painted roof. Chevy says the adhesive is not strong enough and may allow the roof panel to pull away from the frame. Chevy will replace the panel with a new design of a different material.

In part this is a recall of another recall. In 2006, G.M. recalled about 31,000 2005-6 Corvettes because, yes, the roof panel might peel away from the vehicle’s frame. Alan Adler, a spokesman for G.M., said the fix was to use a foam adhesive. That foam was then briefly used as vehicles were assembled in Bowling Green, Ky.

2010 Chevy Camaro Coupe V6 & V8 Engine

2009-12-17T07:27:00.000-08:00

2010 Chevy Camaro

304 horsepower

24 mpg highway

Six airbags

Tear spoiler

$23,040 starting price

~~available in four wheel drive~~

Four passenger seating capacity

OnStar - standard

Boston Acoustics sound system - 245 watt / 9 speaker

100,000 Mile Warranty

2010 Chevy Camaro Review

2009-12-17T07:23:00.000-08:00

The 2010 Chevy Camaro is going be the car that brings back the charm and style of a sports car. Unlike the previous Camaro's, this new style Camaro is going to offer a smooth ride with a custom design. The horsepower of the Camaro promises to be a toy collectors dream come true. The LS-2 6.0 liter V8 offers up more horsepower than any other Camaro. The 400 horsepower engine is going to come in close behind the Corvette, but it will still have enough horsepower for the road. The car offers a smooth ride without any of the engine noise or any shaking and rattling that was apparent in older models.

When the 2010 Chevy Camaro comes out, it is going to have some competition from Ford and Dodge with the Mustang and Challenger, but it will still come out on top with the sporty look and superior horsepower. Whether you drive the manual transmission or the automatic transmission, reaching top speed will be no problem for those of us thrill seekers. If Chevy stays on plan with the independent rear suspension and MacPherson struts in the front, they should have a car capable of blowing away any other sports car in it's class!

The look of the 2010 Chevy Camaro is inspired somewhat by the original 1969 Camaro, but with bolder lines and a much more aggressive body style. The look of the car from the back is what is going to draw attention. Looking at the back window up to the roof, you see a smooth delivery that enhances the look of the car. When the 2010 Chevy Camaro first appeared at the Detroit car show, it was soon realized that that this was going to be a collectors dream. Although there is still some speculation as to when the car would come off the line, we now know that the new Chevrolet Camaro is going to become a reality.

The only thing stopping everyone from owning this car is the release date. The original MSRP of the various models is still unknown, but with all the horsepower and custom design that will make this car "The car of the century" one can only imagine it will be worth every penny. Chevy dealerships around the country have already been flooded with the same question over and over, which isn’t how much is it going to cost, but when will it FINALLY be released. We finally have the answer. September 19th through the 21st, 2009 at the Brickyard event in Indianapolis, IN. Chevy officials will be on hand with several different trim styles and engine types, as well as all of the specifications you are dying to know about such as their horse power, gas mileage and MSRP.

If you owned a 1969 Camaro (or wished you did), you are definitely going to love the 2010 Chevy Camaro. It is destined to become equally as memorable and sought after as the 69 Camaro. Remembering back, collectors were willing to pay top dollar for a project car and cars in supreme condition went for more money than it costs you to buy a nice little house. It will be intriguing to see how the 2010 Chevy Camaro compares to the original in the long run.

Chevrolet Volt To Feature BlackBerry, iPhone App [American All-Electric Car To Use Mobile Phone App To Control 'Some' Car Functions]

2009-12-16T01:13:00.000-08:00

The American car industry may be in trouble, but they’re still trying new things. Last week at the LA Auto Show, American car giant Chevrolet gave a press conference on the Chevy Volt, their all-electric car, and revealed a quick PowerPoint slide that the carmaker was developing a mobile phone app to control ’some car functions’.

A source within General Motors (Chevrolet’s parent company) leaked to Volt blog gm-volt.com and revealed that the app will first come out for the iPhone and BlackBerry, and will be released before the car’s release. The Volt mobile phone app will allow users to set specific schedules for their car’s recharging cycles, like at night when the power usage rates are lower.

The GM leak also said that some features from GM’s OnStar in-car safety system could be incorporated into the mobile app. gm-volt.com’s writer speculates that things like when the car is fully charged, and possibly a warning that the car is not plugged in could also be incorporated to the app.

No information on pricing was released. It would be nice if a free download code for the apps were quietly tucked inside the glove compartment when you took the car home from the dealership – but considering the state of the American car industry, they’ll probably charge you $9.99

Chevrolet announce Spark spec

2009-11-26T20:33:00.002-08:00

American carmaker Chevrolet has announced specification levels of its vibrant small car the Spark, the car will hit the streets in Spring 2010.

At launch the car will be available with a choice of two petrol powerplants – a 1.0-litre unit which develops 68PS and a more powerful 81PS 1.2-litre engine.

The base model, simply titled Chevrolet Spark 1.0, still comes with six airbags as standard, and in recent Euro NCAP results scored a very impressive 5 star for child protection. Expect a five-speed manual gearbox.

If you’re after a few more mod cons then the Spark + trim level might be the one for you – this builds on the base model by including air conditioning, electric front windows, central locking, and a USB compatible four-speaker stereo.

The top of the range 1.0-litre engine, and base 1.2-litre engine trim is the ‘LS’ – which is expected to be the most popular trim level (thanks no doubt to it being available in both engine choices). On top of the + specification, you can expect remote central locking, trim detailing, 14-inch wheels, front fog lamps, and colour matched door handles, mirrors, and spoiler.

The larger engine is also available with a LS+ trim, which adds alloy wheels, rear electric windows, trip computer, and steering wheel audio controls.

Top of the tree comes the LT model, which is only available with the 1.2-litre engine, expect 15″ alloys, climate control, improved stereo, body kit, and a bit more polish in the cabin.

Options across the range include metallic paint, rear parking sensors and electronic stability control.

Chevrolet Spark Details

2009-11-26T20:33:00.001-08:00

Chevrolet's new supermini, the Spark, will be available to order from December 11 and officially goes on sale in the UK next spring.

All Sparks come with a five-speed manual gearbox and six airbags as standard. The entry-level version, known simply as Spark, is by far the cheapest at £6945, and there's then quite a leap to the Spark +, which has air-conditioning, electric front windows, central locking and a four-speaker USB-compatible audio system.

The LS, which is expected to be the most popular model, gets remote central locking, silver trim detailing, 14" steel wheels (larger than those on the cheaper cars), a chrome-effect grille surround, a sunglasses holder and body-coloured doorhandles, exterior mirrors and rear spoiler. The LS+ costs £500 more and comes with alloy wheels, electric rear windows, a trip computer, heated electric door mirrors, roof bars and steering wheel-mounted audio controls.

At the top of the range comes the LT, which is the most expensive at £9845 and has 15" alloy wheels, climate control air-conditioning, interior detailing to match the body colour, a bodykit and a six-speaker stereo.

The LS is unusual in that it's the only one with a choice of two petrol engines - a 67bhp one-litre and a 1.2 developing 80bhp. Cheaper cars are available only with the one-litre engine, while the more expensive ones get the 1.2.

All versions have the same list of optional extras - metallic paint at £365, rear parking sensors at £150 and electronic stability control at £350. The fact that the latter item is not available as standard on any Spark is the only thing that prevented Euro NCAP from giving the car a five-star rating in its latest round of crash tests (see separate story), so it would seem reasonable for any customer who pays the extra money to assume that they are getting a five-star car.

2011 Chevrolet Volt Pedestrian Alert System Will Be Driver Controlled

2009-11-26T20:29:00.000-08:00

Chevy Volt IVer

GM's announcement that engineers developing the 2011 Chevrolet Volt have partnered with the National Federation of the Blind to figure out "a safe level of sound" from the company's first extended-range electric vehicle.

Our subsequent interview with Tony Posawatz, vehicle line director for the 2011 Volt extended-range electric car, helped us understand some details of the Volt's Pedestrian-Friendly Alert System that we hadn't known.

Drivers to sound the alert

For one thing, the system will be driver actuated, rather than automatically producing sound at neighborhood speeds. Drivers will trigger it just like the "flash-to-pass" function now built into many turn-signal/light-switch combination levers.

The goal, Posawatz said, was to produce an "automotive quality sound" that pedestrians would instantly recognize, without confusing it for the horn. He described it as "a series of low horn audio signals or cues," but said the precise sound is "still being fine-tuned."

Lights as well as sound

At speeds under 35 miles per hour, the system not only emits that characteristic sound, but also flashes the Volt's lights. Though flashing lights may not be useful to vision-impaired pedestrians, they add an additional layer of warning for children, runners, cyclists, and others who may be unaware that a two-ton vehicle is driving silently toward them.

The alert sound is distinctive enough, Posawatz said, that it may become a way for Volt drivers to acknowledge each other, just as Corvette drivers and Harley-Davidson riders signal each other as they pass.

Hybrids hit pedestrians more

The imminent arrival of all-electric cars like the 2011 Chevrolet Volt and the 2012 Nissan Leaf has raised the level of concern among advocates for the blind about the lack of noise from hybrids running in electric mode.

Recent preliminary data from a National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) study appears to show that hybrids hit pedestrians more often than non-hybrid vehicles. With statistical information now demonstrating that risk, carmakers are lining up to work with groups like the NFB.

Chevrolet Cruze is rated five stars in the latest NCAP results

2009-11-26T20:27:00.000-08:00

Chevrolet Cruze

Previously recognised for a best-in-class, five-star crash safety rating in Australasian New Car Assessment Program (ANCAP) testing in Australia and Chinese New Car Assessment Program (C-NCAP) testing in China, the Cruze has now achieved a five-star Euro NCAP rating, becoming the only car ever to achieve maximum points in frontal offset and side impact crash tests.

The Cruze received a maximum 16 points in the frontal offset collision and a maximum 8 points in the side impact test against a moving deformable barrier, making it the first passenger car to receive maximum scores in both tests since Euro NCAP began providing crash test ratings in 1997. Overall, it scored 79 points out of a possible 100 – a clear five-star rating.

The independent European testing organisation also awarded Chevrolet's new compact saloon a high score of 7.3 out of 8 points in the more severe side pole test, indicating that the Cruze's reinforced side shell helps protect passengers in the event of a side collision. The Cruze's headrests were well positioned to absorb crash energy against whiplash in a rear-end collision. The Cruze was also given high marks for child and pedestrian protection during testing.

"We are pleased with the Cruze's outstanding safety rating," said Wayne Brannon, President and Managing Director, Chevrolet Europe. "Today's results confirm that the Cruze offers benchmark safety. This complements its bold styling, excellent ride and handling, and outstanding value for money."

The Cruze's safety begins with its solid body structure. It features a new body-frame integral (BFI) system supplemented with finely tuned chassis components. With the BFI system, the upper body structure and frame are engineered as a single unit, offering a heightened sense of solidity and stability.

Sixty-four percent of the structure is constructed of high-strength steel, offering a high level of protection. Reinforcing the door and locker seal applications, the use of ultra-high-strength steel for the B-pillars and the efficient aluminium bumper application further ensure maximum safety.

The Cruze features as standard a full range of active and passive safety features usually found only on more expensive vehicles, including:

Electronic Stability Control
Traction control
Anti-lock brakes
Brake assist
Electronic Brake-Force Distribution
Six air bags, including driver, front passenger, front side and curtain air bags
Seat-belt reminders, retractors and lap pretensioners with seat-belt load limiters

The Cruze is a member of Chevrolet's new range of small, compact and mid-size products being rolled out in markets around the world. It is or will be built in Korea, Russia and the United States, and sold in over 130 countries around the world.

2010 Chevrolet Spark

2009-11-08T09:05:00.000-08:00

The Chevrolet Spark is set to light up the Geneva Motor Show when it debuts there in March this year. The first picture of Chevrolet’s new global entry into the lively mini car market was unveiled at the Detroit Auto Show.

The Spark will add great style, roominess and versatility to the segment of extremely fuel-efficient small cars. Equipped with five doors, the Spark features a fresh, youthful exterior and interior design that is reflected in the selection of materials and colours.

2009 CHEVROLET IMPALA

2009-11-04T11:11:00.001-08:00

With powerful and efficient V8 engines, a comfortable cabin and a smooth ride, the 2009 Chevrolet Impala brings a lot to the family sedan table.

2009 Chevrolet Corvette Z06

2009-11-04T11:10:00.000-08:00

The Chevrolet Corvette Z06 is the range-topping performance model in the Corvette lineup and is widely regarded as one of the best performance bargains on the planet.

At the heart of the Corvette Z06 is a 7.0L LS7 engine. Born out of Chevrolet’s racing program, each V8 engine is hand-built at the GM Performance Build Center in Wixom, Michigan and features a dry-sump lubrication system, titanium valves and connecting rods, forged-steel crankshaft with six-bolt main bearings and a high-profile cam.

2009 Chevrolet Corvette GT1 Championship Edition

2009-10-29T20:52:00.000-07:00

In order to celebrate the entry of the Corvette C6.R into the GT1 class of ALMS this year, GM unveiled to day the 2009 Chevrolet Corvette GT1 Championship Edition, a new package available for the Corvette Coupe 4LT, Convertible 4LT and Z06 3LZ.

The package will be available in a yellow base color with black accents, or with a black base paint and yellow accents. Yellow cars will receive black headlights with body colored door handles and a unique carbon fiber engine cover for both models. The Corvette Racing team’s ‘Jake’ logo will be used throughout the car, and the team’s victories will be displayed on the lower portion of the Corvette’s door.

[Source: Chevrolet]

2010 Chevrolet Equinox Pictures

2009-10-29T20:42:00.000-07:00

2010 Chevrolet Equinox Pictures

Race-Prepared 2010 Camaro

2009-10-23T17:27:00.002-07:00

Race-Prepared 2010 Camaro

Like a flashback to a time when Detroit steel dominated the world; Mustangs, Camaros and Challengers will all be represented in the season-ending Bosch Engineering Oktoberfest race this weekend in Richmond VA. All three of these modern pony cars compete in the series’ Grand Sport class, a group that includes cars that have only been minimally modified to 350-405 horsepower and top out at 160 mph. Unlike most other racing, the opportunity to see a car that is very much like one from the factory being put through its paces is more than a little satisfying.

2011 Chevy Caprice Police Patrol Vehicle

2009-10-23T17:27:00.001-07:00

With the iconic Ford Police Interceptor now doing a bid for life w/o parole, several automakers have begun to clamor for its coveted corner of the law enforcement industry. Enter: the 2011 Chevy Caprice Police Patrol Vehicle (PPV), only slightly more intimidating than the GEM NEV.

To be fair, it’s hard to compete with the extremely intimidating aesthetic of the Dodge Charger Police Package, but the Caprice doesn’t even seem to be trying. If you remove the ram bars, the light bar, and the meth dealer in the back seat, it would be right at home in the parking lot at the local bingo hall/church potluck. What’s more, not only is the Caprice sorely lacking in the looks department but the heat it’s packing under the hood doesn’t do much by way of impressing us either. Optionally offered with a V6 or 6.0L V8, even the most powerful of the two only puts out 355 horses which is roughly 100 more than the outgoing Ford, but still a full 43 less than the Charger.

2009 Chevrolet HHR

2009-10-23T17:26:00.001-07:00

2009 Chevrolet HHR SS

One wonders now that the PT Cruiser is slated for termination if the Chevy HHR will follow soon after. The HHR only exists to begin with as a thinly veiled attempt at cashing in on the PT Cruiser’s past popularity anyway. Although the PT Cruiser’s unique (at the time) styling endeared it to a huge segment of buyers, the HHR has never been so lucky and has mostly lived on the periphery of automotive relevance for the last 3 years. All that being true, if the HHR is on its way out and it serves your needs, there are some pretty compelling reasons to give it a look. And none of them have to do with its styling.

GM Makes Grab For Relevance With Volt Color Contest

2009-10-23T17:25:00.002-07:00

As some of you more enterprising social networking users may have already heard, GM announced early this morning that the prestigious honor of naming the paint colors for the Chevy Volt will fall squarely on the shoulders of John Q. Public. Well, the honor of naming a paint color, at least.

Open to any members of the public who wish to participate, the official submission process begins today and will run until November 16th when the least offensive finalists are chosen. From there, voters will narrow the selection down to three grand prize winners who, in addition to lifetime bragging rights, will an all-inclusive to the LA Auto Show on December 2, 2009. The grand prize winner will be announced by Chevy on December 1 and will receive all the aforementioned swag, plus the chance to test-drive the pre-production Volt.

2010 Chevrolet Camaro V-6

2009-10-23T17:25:00.001-07:00

No more guessing. No more hype. No more waiting. At long last, Chevrolet has opened the doors to its feverishly awaited 2010 Chevy Camaro sport coupe, and we’ve enjoyed a thorough shakedown run (in a “99%” prototype).

Let’s not keep you in suspense any longer. The envelope, please: Chevy’s new two-door is…very good. Very, very, very good. At the risk of inducing insider trading, now would be a good time to sell your Mustang stock.

The 99% prototype is admittedly rough around the edges-awful paint, not all parts to production shape, some interior bits held in place with tape while engineers test final pieces — but in terms of hardware it’s a “nearly done” Camaro. With minor tweaks, this is the car you’ll be able to get by March.

For this early drive, Chevy served up only the base, V-6 version of its new ponycar (V-8 drives will follow in about two months), but that quickly proved no disappointment. The headline news: The “base” engine is the same DOHC, 24-valve 3.6L V-6 that serves in the 2008 Motor Trend Car of the Year, the Cadillac CTS. Outfitted with variable valve timing and direct injection, this high-tech beauty will romp with more than 300 hp (final output is still TBD) and should deliver EPA city/highway fuel economy ratings of least 18/26 mpg — though Chevy is aiming for 19/27 mpg.

Even GM loyalists must be pinching themselves. After so many years of second- or third-rate powerplants appearing in brand-new GM vehicles, seeing this superstar engine make its debut at launch time speaks volumes about the winning mindset of the New General. The development team, a dedicated cadre of Aussies well versed in building fast, rear-drive cars for GM division Holden, fought the good fight to get project money spent where it would do the most good. The result: premium engine hardware, sophisticated chassis moves, a gorgeous shape unmarred by “convenient” production compromises. You want a navigation system? Too bad — the Holden development crew figured you’d rather they spend the money on things like surgically precise steering and bourbon-smooth six-speed transmissions (besides, all new Camaros will offer OnStar turn-by-turn route guidance).

Yes, two six-speeds will be offered with the V-6 (and, by the way, the V-8): an Aisin manual and a HydroMatic automatic with wheel-mounted manual shift buttons (the V-8 manual will be a Tremec unit). All base Camaros will be equipped with an FE2 suspension package, though chief engineer Doug Houlihan says Chevy is “considering” adding, as an option, the uprated FE3 suspension that’ll be standard on V-8 cars. Base tires are 245/55R18 M+S BFGoodrich Traction T/As on 18-in. alloys; optional rubber will include 19- and 20-in. Pirellis (the latter available in summer or snow versions) plus an available 21-in. wheel-and-tire upgrade (summer only). Brakes are single-piston calipers all around, with cast-iron rotors (12.6 in.) up front and aluminum discs (12.4 in.) in back. (All Camaro V-8s will sport bigger, four-piston Brembo binders and a larger master cylinder for improved brake feel.) An optional RS package will include the 20-in. rims plus HID headlamps, a rear spoiler, and door-sill trim, among other upgrades.

The 2010 Chevrolet Camaro

2009-10-23T17:23:00.000-07:00

Unveiled to the public yesterday in press conferences (video of which is available here) in Warren, Michigan and North Hollywood, California, the 2010 Chevrolet Camaro has finally made its long-awaited debut.

Careful not to stray too far from its historically-recognizable exterior styling, the 2010 Camaro is the 21st century update of an old favorite. Officially available in coupe form beginning Summer 2009, the 2010 Camaro is to be offered in 3 trim levels; LS, LT & SS – SS being the Camaro powerhouse everyone has been talking about.

Living up to its “pony car” tag, the Camaro SS gallops (sorry) into the 2010 arena with a 6.2L V8 engine, a bore/stroke formula of 4.06 x 3.62 and engine displacement measuring 6,162 cc. With 422 horsepower (@ 5,000 rpm), 408 lb-ft torque (@ 4,500 rpm), and current right-to-buy price tags sitting somewhere between $20,000 and $25,000, Chevrolet expects its key competitors to be the Dodge Challenger, Ford Mustang, and Nissan 350Z.

Later this week, we’ll compare the 2010 Camaro to those 3 models and determine whether the Camaro 2010 can give those cars a real run for the money, or if Chevrolet is going to have to play a little bit of catch-up first.

Below, full text from the Chevrolet’s official press release:

July 21, 2008

It’s been one of the most talked about concept vehicles in automotive history. Now it’s more than just a concept.

Today, at simultaneous events at the GM Tech Center in Warren, Michigan, and GM West Coast Advanced Design Studio North Hollywood, California, GM unveiled the 2010 Chevy Camaro. Sales begin in early 2009.

“The new Camaro delivers the best of both worlds – great heritage and a thoroughly modern, advanced package of performance, comfort and technology,” said Ed Peper, Chevrolet general manager. “It’s a sports car for a new generation of enthusiasts that doesn’t forget the heritage that helped make the original a cultural icon.”

2009 Chevrolet Corvette

2009-10-19T11:36:00.000-07:00

Question: It seems like there are a lot of conflicting opinions on when to change the oil in a Corvette. I've been changing the oil in my '09 convertible every 3,000 miles; is this too often? Should I just follow the car computer? Do I need to change the filter on every oil change?
David
Via the Internet

Answer: This seems like it should be a simple question to answer, but sometimes things aren't as simple as they seem. Let's start by covering the basics. You need to change your oil on a regular basis, because all motor oils break down over time. Once that breakdown has occurred, the oil loses its ability to protect your engine.

Besides lubricating an engine's moving parts, motor oils are designed to carry combustion byproducts away from the pistons and cylinders. Oil is also formulated to collect dirt and dust that enter the engine through the intake and condensation that forms due to heat cycling. Engine oil must also contend with any coolant or fuel that gets in the crankcase, as well as any acids that may form from the reaction between water and other contaminants.

This all means that the more you drive your car, the more the oil will become contaminated. Oil additives are used up over time, and the oil itself can oxidize or thicken, preventing it from doing its job. While knowing this may make you want to change your oil every time you start your engine, today's oils are remarkably resilient and long-lasting. That said, how often you change your oil should depend on several factors.

To determine the rate at which contamination and additive depletion occurs, we need to consider climate, driving conditions, fuel-injection or carburetion adjustments, and the general mechanical condition of the engine. In a perfect, climate-controlled world, with ideal driving conditions and an optimally tuned car, you could easily go 7,000 to 10,000 miles between oil changes. But since none of our vehicles operate under such conditions, I think you're doing the right thing by changing your oil every 3,000 to 3,500 miles.

In some circumstances you'll need to change your oil more frequently than you normally would. These include a misfiring engine or extremely cold operating conditions, which can cause raw fuel to be introduced into the crankcase. Driving the vehicle hard-as you would at a road-course event or during a night at the dragstrip-will also require more-frequent oil changes. It's also a good idea to change the oil if you're getting ready to store your Corvette for the winter. This will remove any contamination and acids from the crankcase, so no bearing damage can occur during storage.

Every time you change your oil, you should change the oil filter as well. Most areas have oil-recycling centers that will take your used oil and filters. You can also check with your local parts store to see if they have a similar disposal program. Finally, always check your owner's manual for the type of oil you should use and the frequency with which you change it.

chevrolet Spark Electra could arrive next year

2009-10-14T06:28:00.000-07:00

Market sources say that GM India could launch the electric version of their Chevrolet Spark car in the next 12 months.

GM is collaborating with Reva Electric Car Company to develop this electric version of Spark.

Reva Electric Car Company is the only automaker in India to manufacture and sell electric cars.

The company has just launched their latest model Chevrolet Cruze in the Indian market.

They are also scheduled to launch another small car in India in the coming months.

GM India unveils new Chevrolet Cruze

2009-10-14T06:25:00.000-07:00

General Motors unveiled the all new Chevrolet Cruze diesel model in the capital with an aggressive introductory price ranging from INR 1099000 to INR 1245000 (ex showroom, Delhi).

This is the second offering in the D or the executive, segment from GM India. Its first car model in this segment was the Chevrolet Optra Magnum.

The new car is cheaper than its competitor Honda Civic, the Skoda Laura diesel and the Volkswagen Jetta diesel. However it is priced in the same bracket as the Toyota Altis which is also available for INR 1100000 but is a petrol driven car.

Mr Karl Slym president & MD of GM India said that “Three months ago the new General Motors company was born. Cruze is the first offering from the new company. The new car has been built on a brand new global platform called the 300 series.”

According to him, the third small car scheduled for launch next year is also modeled on the mini 300 series platform. The 2 litre diesel engine-fired Chevrolet Cruze is the biggest car in the executive passenger vehicle segment in terms of dimensions and is available in two variants: LT and LTZ.

2011 Chevrolet Camaro Convertible

2009-10-08T17:49:00.000-07:00

Chevrolet Camaro Z28 Concept

Chevrolet Camaro Convertible Concept

This week's informative GM Fastlane chat session with General Motors VP of Chevrolet Brand Brent Dewar tells us the Camaro Z28 isn't guaranteed for production--contrary to earlier reports--and the 2011 Chevrolet Camaro Convertible was shown off to dealers this week, and "will come out soon."

The 2010 Chevrolet Camaro has been a hot seller for GM, and rightfully so--our own Bengt Halvorson drove one just this week and found it a lot of fun, "bitchin'," even, despite its minor downsides.

Drop Top Customs will make your Camaro a convertible

2009-10-08T17:47:00.000-07:00

(Credit: Drop Top Customs

Suppose you wanted to pick up a convertible Chevrolet Camaro. You could wait patiently until the rumored 2012 release date. You could hope against hope that GM actually decides to release the darn thing. However, if you've got an extra 18 grand burning a hole in your pocket, you could see the folks at Drop Top Customs about making one for yourself, right now.

Ripping back the top will give rear passengers more headroom, but not legroom.

(Credit: Drop Top Customs

Custom convertibles usually look odd with the top up. Drop Top's Camaro avoids this pitfall.

(Credit: Drop Top Customs

That $18,000 dollar price tag doesn't include the cost of the donor car, so expect to add between $22K and $33K, depending on how much topless muscle you're looking for.

Florida-based Drop Top Customs is currently accepting orders and will display its custom convertible Camaro at the 2009 SEMA Show.

Chevrolet pricing for the all-new, 2010 Camaro

2009-01-08T10:03:00.000-08:00

Chevrolet pricing for the all-new, 2010 Camaro. It starts at $22,995 MSRP for the V-6-powered LS model, and $30,995 for the V-8-powered Camaro SS (all prices include $750 destination charge). Customer ordering opened on Oct. 13, with production scheduled to start in first quarter of 2009.

“The wait is almost over,” said Ed Peper, GM North America vice president, Chevrolet. “The return of the Camaro gives sports car enthusiasts a reason to rejoice. It’s a 21 st century sports car with a distinctly American legacy.

More than 600,000 enthusiasts have requested information on the Camaro since its production was announced. Chevrolet is reaching out to give them the opportunity to be the first to order one.

The Chevy.com/Camaro Web site carries information regarding early ordering, along with vehicle packaging information, a specification sheet and anticipated frequently asked questions about the ordering process.

Production is scheduled to begin in mid-February at GM’s Oshawa, Ontario production facility, with dealership deliveries shortly thereafter. Complementing the Camaro’s introduction is a range of performance, appearance and convenience accessories – including 21-inch wheels and tires; ground effects and stripe kits; and even a classic-styled Hurst shifter – that customers can order and have installed at their dealership. In some cases, the cost of the accessories and their installation can be rolled into the monthly payments.

Chevrolet Takes All-New Traverse Crossover To The World Series

2009-01-08T10:00:00.000-08:00

For the third consecutive year, Chevrolet teams up with Major League Baseball's World Series to hit another vehicle out of the ballpark - the all-new Chevrolet Traverse crossover. In addition to a brand-new TV spot that debuts tonight during the Chevy Pre-Game Show and Game One on Fox, Chevy is expanding its multi-media, MLB postseason blitz to introduce the Traverse to millions of baseball fans.

Building upon the Traverse theme of "Everything you've ever wished for ... and then some" because of its segment-leading cargo room and fuel-efficiency, the promotion includes an opportunity for fans to visit www.worldseries.com/chevy for a chance to win a trip to the 2009 All-Star Game. Visitors will learn more about the Traverse and download a virtual ticket for the first four World Series games on Oct. 22, 23, 25 and 26. Winning ticket numbers will be revealed live during the game broadcasts.