Reuss says GM "fundamentally" behind diesel in US, promises more models

Filed under: Technology, Chevrolet, GM, GMC, Diesel

General Motors is sometimes faulted for poisoning demand for diesel engines in the US. But 30 years later, The General is warming to the idea of consumer-targeted oil burners again. GM President Mark Reuss tells TheDetroitBureau.com that if he has a say, his company will again sell a bunch of diesel-powered passenger cars in the US.

"There is, fundamentally, a place for diesel here," Reuss told TDB after Thursday's Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra intros. When asked directly about a diesel future for GM, Reuss answered, "more to come."

Reuss went on to say new technologies are making cleaner-burning diesels that should make meeting US emissions requirements easier, though he cautions they could push prices up beyond what buyers would be willing to pay. An anonymous GM exec says in the story that consumers have shown an interest in diesel and were willing to pay extra for the greater fuel economy - but not enough to cover actual costs of the technology.

GM's heavy-duty pickups currently offer a diesel engine, but the future of diesel-powered, light-duty cars from GM will likely depend heavily on the market performance of the upcoming diesel Chevrolet Cruze. If it can hit the mythical 50 mpg mark, it could be a hot enough seller that it triggers new conversations in GM's boardroom about developing other oil-burners for North American consumption. Could the future include diesel versions of GM's light-duty pickups? It would appear that the notion has at least one very powerful champion in Reuss.

Reuss says GM "fundamentally" behind diesel in US, promises more models originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 14 Dec 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Source: www.autoblog.com

Pics Aplenty: Meet the 2014 Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra [w/poll]

Filed under: Detroit Auto Show, Truck, Chevrolet, GM, GMC, Off-Road

Today was a pretty big day for General Motors, debuting the all-new Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra light-duty pickup trucks ahead of their official showcase at the 2013 Detroit Auto Show. And now that the dust has settled at GM's big reveal event, we've had a chance to snap dozens of photos of the new pickup pair from every angle.

We already told you the important bits earlier today (click here in case you missed it), but let's recap. Under the hood are three new engines - a 4.3-liter V6, 5.3-liter V8 and 6.2-liter V8 (you know, a version of the small-block that'll also be found under the hood of the C7 Corvette), all mated to six-speed automatic transmissions. The 2014 model year marks the return of the Z71 off-road package with Rancho shocks, front tow hooks and beefier underbody protection. Inside, there's a host of new technology and a greater focus on better quality and refinement.

Some of the nitty-gritty specifics (like engine output numbers and fuel economy) have yet to be revealed, and since we haven't driven the finished products yet, it's hard to say how these trucks will fare against rivals like the Ram 1500 and Ford F-150. For now, we can only judge these two books by their covers, and while we do like the designs of the new trucks, we Autoblog staffers are torn on exactly which one looks best.

That's where you come into play. Click through the attached high-res image galleries of live photos and let us know in the poll below which truck you think looks the best. Feel free to explain your reasoning in the Comments, as well.

View Poll

Pics Aplenty: Meet the 2014 Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra [w/poll] originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 13 Dec 2012 20:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Source: www.autoblog.com

2014 Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra debut all-new designs, three new engines

Filed under: Detroit Auto Show, Truck, Chevrolet, GM, GMC, Off-Road

General Motors has finally dropped the curtain on the 2014 Chevrolet Silverado and 2014 GMC Sierra. Both trucks have undergone substantial revisions with updated versions of the company's 4.3-liter V6, 5.3-liter V8 and 6.2-liter V8 engines. In a shot across the bows of both Ford and Chrysler, GM says it won't use a V6 engine adapted from passenger car applications. Instead, it developed the 4.3-liter engine based on its proven truck-duty architecture.

All three mills will boast direct injection fuel systems as well as a new cylinder head design. Combined with a revised piston, the new engines feature a smaller combustion chamber with a compression ratio of 11:1 or higher depending on the application. Cylinder deactivation and continuously variable valve timing are all part of the recipe, and each engine is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission with auto grade breaking. So far, no fuel economy or horsepower figures have been released, though GM says the new engines will best their predecessors in both areas.

Outside, the trucks feature a number of enhancements to reduce drag and wind noise, and GM claims both the Silverado and Sierra will offer buyers some of the quietest cabins in the class. Extended cab models now feature front-hinged rear doors to allow easier access to the back passenger area, and Crew Cab buyers can now select between a five-foot, eight-inch bed or a six-foot, six-inch bed. Buyers with a mind toward going off road will also rejoice in the return of the Z71 package, complete with Rancho shocks, front tow hooks and additional under-body protection.

Indoors, both trucks now boast completely new interiors with a focus on soft-touch materials. Drivers are now met with a gauge cluster that features a 4.2-inch color information display, and the new trucks can be had with up to five USB ports, four 12-volt outlets and one SD card slot. The option sheet also features the IntelliLink connectivity system, displayed through a high-definition eight-inch color touchscreen interface.

In addition, the 2014 Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra will be available with safety add-ons like Forward Collision Alert, Lane Departure Warning and the Driver Alert Seat, which we first saw on the Cadillac XTS. Check out the full press releases below for more information.

Continue reading 2014 Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra debut all-new designs, three new engines

2014 Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra debut all-new designs, three new engines originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 13 Dec 2012 10:49:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Source: www.autoblog.com

Watch the live reveal of the 2014 Chevy Silverado and GMC Sierra

Filed under: Truck, Videos, Work, Chevrolet, GM, GMC

As promised, Chevrolet and GMC are offering a live webcast of the world premiere for the all-new 2014 Silverado 1500 and Sierra 1500. After being teased with spy shots and blurry images like the one above for ages, now is the time to see the trucks in the metal, for real (well, as 'real' as it gets on a webcast, at any rate).

Shift your eyes down just below to see the reveal as it happens, starting at 9:30 AM EST. We anticipate having loads of images full technical information to share after the webcast, too, so truck aficionados should stay tuned. We'll also be bringing you live images of both trucks too, when we see them on the show floor at next month's Detroit Auto Show.

Watch the live reveal of the 2014 Chevy Silverado and GMC Sierra originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 13 Dec 2012 09:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Source: www.autoblog.com

Autoblog Podcast #312

Filed under: Podcasts, Government/Legal, Chevrolet, GM, GMC, Honda, Hyundai, Jeep, Nissan, Diesel

More Honda Fit models, mandatory black boxes, too many GM pickups, Jeep Grand Cherokee diesel

Episode #312 of the Autoblog Podcast is here, and this week, Dan Roth, Zach Bowman and George Kennedy talk about reports of a soon-to-be-expanding Honda Fit line, the possibility of a mandated and standardized black box for every car, GM's glut of pickups, and the Jeep Grand Cherokee diesel that's coming soon. For those of you who hung with us live on our UStream channel, thanks for taking the time. Keep reading for our Q&A module for you to scroll through and follow along, too. Thanks for listening!

Autoblog Podcast #312:



Topics:

• Honda Fit line expanding
• White House clears way for black boxes
• GM has too many pickups
• Jeep Grand Cherokee Diesel headed to Detroit

In the Autoblog Garage:
2013 Honda Accord Touring
2013 Nissan Sentra SR
2013 Hyundai Veloster Turbo

Hosts: Dan Roth, Zach Bowman, George Kennedy

Runtime: 01:31:41

---

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Continue reading Autoblog Podcast #312

Autoblog Podcast #312 originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 11 Dec 2012 17:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Source: www.autoblog.com

New Chevrolet Silverado to be revealed on Facebook on Thursday

Filed under: Truck, Chevrolet, GMC

There's not much to see here, but if you're one of those waiting for the reveal of the 2014 Chevrolet Silverado 1500, above is the teaser image that Chevrolet posted on its Facebook page. We've seen the truck in form-fitting camo before, and even less can be made out here beyond those seriously punchy Silverado-esque fenders and the knowledge that the projector-beam headlamps teased previously do indeed work. We'll have to wait until Thursday for a full perusal of the "bold exterior design" and "careful attention given to every detail" we've been promised.

Gathering intel and rumors, magnesium and aluminum contribute to the Silverado's weight loss plan, the purported "High Country" top-tier trim will contribute to luxury pickup truck competition and profit margins and the next-generation small-block V8 will contribute to improved fuel economy. On the engine note, there have been rumors of available V6 engines, and when Facebook user John Jones asked "Where's your answer to that EcoBoost Chevy?", the Bowtie replied "stay tuned on the 13th. We think you'll be pleased...".

Along with the "Raise the Bar" tag, Chevrolet says of the Silverado, "You asked, we delivered." You can watch the reveal live on Chevrolet's Facebook page at 9:30 am EST, this Thursday, December 13. The GMC Sierra 1500 will also be there, and we'll see both in person at the Detroit Auto Show in January.

New Chevrolet Silverado to be revealed on Facebook on Thursday originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 11 Dec 2012 08:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Source: www.autoblog.com

GM profits threatened by glut of pickups

Filed under: Car Buying, Truck, Plants/Manufacturing, Chevrolet, GM, GMC, Earnings/Financials

Automotive News reports that General Motors may slash production or ramp up discounts in order to deal with an oversupply of pickup trucks. GM currently has more than double the standard supply of pickups, and the vehicles are threatening to dampen the automaker's profits for 2013. Typically, automakers try to sustain a 60- to 75-day supply of vehicles, but GM is currently loaded with a 139-day supply, as of last month. At the end of November, the automaker was sitting on 245,853 units.

The manufacturer says that it will adjust production accordingly before laying any incentives on the profitable pickups. Even so, there's some concern that the inventory swell could hurt the roll-out of the next-generation Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra. GM actually began slowly stepping back production in August, but it's clear the company will take further action as it heads toward the end of the year and into the next. Analysts predict the automaker could reduce pickup manufacturing by nearly half in the first quarter of 2013.

That still may not be enough to keep GM from laying extra cash on the Silverado and GMC Sierra. While the company's incentive spending was down in November compared to the same month in 2011, both the Ram 1500 and Ford F-150 saw double-digit percentage increases in sales last month while the Silverado and Sierra numbers slid compared to a year prior. Incentive spending could help move more trucks and add some balance to the GM inventory surge.

GM profits threatened by glut of pickups originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 05 Dec 2012 18:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Source: www.autoblog.com

GM expands military discount

Filed under: Car Buying, Buick, Chevrolet, GM, GMC

Today is Veteran's Day, and General Motors is marking this year's holiday with an expansion of its Military Discount Program. Formerly available to active duty and retired service members, reservists and spouses, but as of now any veteran can take advantage of the program up to a year after his or her discharge. The military discount can be applied to most Chevrolet, Buick and GMC vehicles on top of other incentives. The press release below has all the details.

Continue reading GM expands military discount

GM expands military discount originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 11 Nov 2012 11:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Diesel Power sets land speed towing record at 141.998 mph

Filed under: Performance, Truck, Videos, GMC

There are more land speed record categories than we care to count, but the minds at Diesel Power recently tackled one of the more interesting and obscure titles in the realm: the record for the fastest vehicle towing a trailer. That meant the team would need to exceed the 139.11 mph barrier set by the previous record holder. To do that, they whipped up a GMC 2500 HD with over 1,000 horsepower and a two-stage nitrous set up. The trailer itself also required a bit of tweaking, and the crew ditched the standard wheel and tire combination for some V-rated rubber.

Of course, it goes without saying that you should never exceed the posted speed limit, especially when towing a load behind your vehicle. Diesel Power took to the sands of the El Mirage dry lake bed for this stunt, complete with plenty of emergency personnel on hand. The result was 141.998 mph through the traps, which was good enough to take the title. Check out the video below to see the insanity for yourself.

Continue reading Diesel Power sets land speed towing record at 141.998 mph

Diesel Power sets land speed towing record at 141.998 mph originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 31 Oct 2012 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Chevy Equinox and GMC Terrain twins hit 1M units

Filed under: Plants/Manufacturing, Crossover, Chevrolet, GMC

The GMC Terrain and Chevrolet Equinox twins have been hot sellers since they went on sale in 2009, but even with strong sales, it's still somewhat surprising to hear that the millionth crossover underpinned by the latest Theta platform has already rolled off the assembly line. According to General Motors, a silver 2013 GMC Terrain has just become the milestone model at its CAMI plant in Ingersoll, Ontario.

Both Chevrolet and GMC models are still selling well. Through September of this year, each line has seen double-digit percentage increases over 2011, and a new, more powerful V6 added to the lineup should help to sell a few more units each month. On their current pace, the Equinox is likely to sell just over 200,000 units in 2012 (compared to 149,979 units just two years ago) while the Terrain should have no problem topping 90,000 units for the year (up from 60,519 units in 2010).

Demand has been so high for the platform mates over the last several years that production capacity has been added in Oshawa, Ontario and more recently, Spring Hill, Tennessee.

Continue reading Chevy Equinox and GMC Terrain twins hit 1M units

Chevy Equinox and GMC Terrain twins hit 1M units originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 31 Oct 2012 07:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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GM lawsuit over Einstein image use dismissed

Filed under: Government/Legal, Marketing/Advertising, Crossover, GM, GMC

Albert Einstein's image has been used to sell everything from computer software to life insurance. In 2009, General Motors used the legendary physicist's face it in an ad for the 2010 GMC Terrain. It ran only once in a single issue of People Magazine.

Hebrew University of Jerusalem sued the automaker in 2010, arguing Einstein's will gave the school all rights to the use of his image. This week, however, a Los Angeles court said those rights expired 55 years after the scientist's death.

"Now, nearly 60 years after his death, that persona should be freely available to those who seek to appropriate it as part of their own expression, even in tasteless ads," ruled US District Judge Howard Matz. "The obviously humorous ad for the 2010 Terrain having been published 55 years or more after Einstein's death, it is unlikely that any viewer of it could reasonably infer that Einstein... was endorsing the GMC Terrain."

GM lawsuit over Einstein image use dismissed originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 22 Oct 2012 08:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Ford, GM win Breakthrough Product awards from Popular Mechanics

Filed under: Europe, Safety, Technology, Ford, GM, GMC

Tucked between an avalanche airbag and a 3D desktop printer, a Ford engine and General Motors' crash avoidance system were named two of Popular Mechanics top 10 breakthrough technology award winners for 2012.

Ford's three-cylinder 1.0-liter Ecoboost engine collected one of Pop Mech's honors by providing power through turbocharging and fuel efficiency through its tiny displacement. While the internal combustion engine has been around for more than 100 years, it's not often that it undergoes such a dramatic improvement.

"We placed the bar incredibly high when we set out to design this engine," said Joe Bakaj, Ford vice president, Global Powertrain, in a news release. "We wanted to deliver eye-popping fuel economy, surprising performance, quietness and refinement - and all from a very small three-cylinder engine.

GM's crash avoidance system is a big step toward creating self-driving cars. The system, which debuted in the GMC Terrain, uses a camera mounted near the rearview mirror. It follows the lines on the road to ensure the Terrain stays between them and can detect objects that might be in the way.

While many carmakers are introducing similar systems, Popular Mechanics notes that GM's is "the first practical and cost-effective single-camera vision system for crash avoidance in passenger cars."

Ford, GM win Breakthrough Product awards from Popular Mechanics originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 06 Oct 2012 13:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Source: www.autoblog.com

GM promises new Buick Regal and LaCrosse along with new GMC Canyon, Sierra and Yukon in next 12 months

Filed under: Sedan, SUV, Truck, Crossover, Buick, GM, GMC, Luxury

While Chevrolet and Cadillac are the defining brands for General Motors, Buick and GMC seem to be the middle siblings of the auto giant and, therefore, are often overlooked and underappreciated. This might be changing over the next 12 months, though, as these brands are set to receive nine new or refreshed models in this timeframe.

The sole new model to join the lineup is the sub-$25,000 Buick Encore crossover, but the Regal and LaCrosse are all getting mid-cycle updates at some point over the next year, not to mention the refreshed Enclave that we've already seen. Not to be left out, the Buick Verano will be getting a little more pep under the hood courtesy of a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine.

As for GMC, its full-size truck lineup is being completely overhauled. We've already seen spy photos of the new Chevrolet Silverado testing, and GMC confirmed that the Yukon, Yukon XL, Sierra and Sierra HD will all be introduced by next fall. All four GMC models will continue to be offered with the added luxury of the Denali trim level as well.

Perhaps the biggest news that came from this announcement was that the GMC Canyon is confirmed for a next-generation model, and it will be built alongside the all-new Chevrolet Colorado at GM's Wentzville, Missouri assembly plant.

Continue reading GM promises new Buick Regal and LaCrosse along with new GMC Canyon, Sierra and Yukon in next 12 months

GM promises new Buick Regal and LaCrosse along with new GMC Canyon, Sierra and Yukon in next 12 months originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 21 Sep 2012 09:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Source: www.autoblog.com

2013 GMC Acadia priced from $34,875*

Filed under: Car Buying, Technology, Crossover, GMC, Saturn

For those who are interested in the reworked 2013 GMC Acadia, we now know how much you can look forward to forking over. Base MSRP for the 2013 version of the full-size, three-row crossover has been set at $34,875 (*not including a $825 destination charge). If you are interested in the range-topping Denali trim, be prepared to pay $46,770.

The 2013 Acadia will come standard with a backup camera, leather-wrapped steering wheel, USB port and recycled visuals from the now-dead Saturn Outlook.

Upping to the Denali trim gets you a head-up display, blind spot monitoring system and GMC's new Rear Cross Traffic Alert system. According to GMC, most trims will also receive IntelliLink connectivity as standard equipment. The Acadia will also get the industry's first front-center airbag, an innovation it shares with other Lambda-based crossovers like the refreshed 2013 Buick Enclave. The idea behind the new tube-shaped airbag is that it can provide a buffer between driver and front seat passenger in the event of an impact, or better hold the driver in place if he or she is alone.

The Acadia will continue to be powered by GM's ubiquitous direct-injected 3.6-liter V6, making 288 horsepower and 279 pound feet of torque. With standard front-wheel drive, the Acadia returns 17 miles per gallon city and 24 highway. Opting for all-wheel-drive docks just one mile per gallon from both ratings. For more information on the updated 2013 Acadia, check out the press release below.

Continue reading 2013 GMC Acadia priced from $34,875*

2013 GMC Acadia priced from $34,875* originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 12 Sep 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Source: www.autoblog.com

OnStar bug forces GM to halt deliveries on 60,000 vehicles

Filed under: Safety, Technology, Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, GM, GMC

General Motors stopped the sale of certain 2013 Chevrolet Cruze, Equinox and Volt models as well as 2013 Buick Verano units, GMC Terrain crossovers and 2012 Cadillac SRX, XTS and ATS vehicles due to a problem with the onboard OnStar crash notification system. According to Automtotive News, the affected units would not notify emergency responders of an accident in any collision that did not actuate the vehicle's airbags. That could include rear-end impacts. GM says the software glitch won't take long to address and doesn't impact the crash notification system in accidents that involve deployed airbags. The trouble doesn't prevent the airbags from deploying, either.

All told, the stop-sale covers around 60,000 vehicles already on dealer lots. GM has already cleared some of those for sale thanks to a remote reflash sent through the OnStar system. Automotive News reports that unfortunately, the fix hasn't worked on every vehicle, and dealers are having to manually install the fix on the remainder of the impacted units. GM expects the repair to be completed by the end of September.

OnStar bug forces GM to halt deliveries on 60,000 vehicles originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 10 Sep 2012 16:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Source: www.autoblog.com

GM cancels next-gen hybrid truck/SUV program

Filed under: Hybrid, SUV, Truck, Cadillac, Chevrolet, GM, GMC

According to a report from GMInsideNews.com, General Motors has shut down its hybrid program for company's next-generation of full-size pickup trucks and sport-utility vehicles. Currently, the Chevrolet Silverado, Tahoe, GMC Sierra, Yukon and Cadillac Escalade all use the two-mode hybrid technology.

Historically, the two-mode hybrid models have not sold well, and only yield minor improvements in overall fuel economy. In most applications, the two-mode hybrid system is rated at 20 miles per gallon in the city and 23 mpg highway.

GMI reports that it's unusual for programs like this to be shut down so close to the launch of a new vehicle - the next-generation trucks/SUVs are scheduled to debut for the 2014 model year - but that many sources within GM are not surprised about the move. These new full-size hybrids were reportedly supposed to use an updated two-mode system, featuring a smaller displacement V8 engine, upgraded battery storage (using a more modern lithium-ion pack) and revamped electric motors, according to GMI.

When contacted by Autoblog, a GM spokesperson only stated that the automaker could "not comment on future products or related technologies."

GM cancels next-gen hybrid truck/SUV program originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 31 Aug 2012 18:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Source: www.autoblog.com

GM's next-gen pickup plans force dealers into one of two camps

Filed under: Car Buying, Plants/Manufacturing, Chevrolet, GM, GMC

Most General Motors dealers make their living off selling pickup trucks. (That's why when it came time to trim the brands and reorganize under bankruptcy, GMC survived and Pontiac didn't - because Buick dealers needed to have a truck to sell, not a full-size muscle sedan from Australia.) That makes this year a tricky one for dealers, according to Automotive News, as they need to have enough Chevrolet Silverado or GMC Sierra models in stock to get them to the 2013 model year.

What makes this quandary different from most years is that GM is readying all-new pickups, meaning that it will be shutting down production for long stretches to retool. The full-size Chevrolet and GMC trucks date to 2006, making them the oldest in the industry that don't wear a Nissan Titan badge on their tailgate. Dealers, of course, don't want to be caught with many 2012 trucks - vehicles that are already difficult enough to sell - but they don't want inventories to run completely dry and risk turning away customers.

With a combined 29 weeks of downtime scheduled for three truck plans, according to the report, some dealers are stockpiling pickups to avoid running out if the truck production pipeline dries up before the 2013s start shipping. Other dealers are taking the opposite strategy, turning down 2012s and waiting for next year's models.

Given all that has happened to GM in recent years, we imagine that most dealers know altogether too well that you're damned if you do, and damned if you don't.

GM's next-gen pickup plans force dealers into one of two camps originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 08 May 2012 09:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Source: www.autoblog.com

Automakers tussle over owners of 'orphan' makes

Filed under: Car Buying, Marketing/Advertising, Chevrolet, Ford, GM, GMC, Hummer, Lincoln, Mercury, Pontiac, Saturn, Toyota

When General Motors put down several of its brands in recent years, it also let loose thousands of brand-loyal customers who will eventually need another car.

R.L. Polk Associates estimates there are more than 18 million cars from 16 discontinued makes on the road today. Those "orphan owners" have sales-hungry competitors seeing dollar signs. GM is offering Saturn owners $1,000 cash toward a Chevy Cruze, Cadillac CTS or a GMC Acadia. Ford is giving its Mercury lease customers a chance to get out of their contracts with no early-termination penalty and offering to waive six remaining payments if they drive off in a Ford or Lincoln.

Edmunds.com research shows the efforts are paying off somewhat for GM, with 39 percent of Pontiac owners, 37 percent of Hummer owners and 31 percent of Saturn owners taking delivery of another GM-branded vehicle. But that leaves as much as 69 percent of owners going elsewhere. Ford, Honda and Toyota seem to be attracting many former GM owners.

As Forbes points out, if you're driving an orphaned nameplate, you just might be able to use that to your advantage when shopping for a new vehicle.

Automakers tussle over owners of 'orphan' makes originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 10 May 2012 08:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Source: www.autoblog.com

Shanghai GMC dealer offering five tons of free gas with truck purchase

Filed under: Car Buying, Truck, China, GMC

Big trucks just aren't appealing enough on their own, at least in some places. For proof, look to a Shanghai GMC dealer who is offering about three years worth of free gas to anyone who buys a new Sierra Denali. Too bad it'll take about 20 years to pay off the big truck.

The dealer is giving away five tons - about 2,000 gallons, worth around $8,000 in China - of petrol to new Sierra Denali buyers in China's largest city, according to The Detroit Bureau. The offer appears to be a nod to rising China gas prices, which are climbing towards levels similar to those in the U.S. now that the Chinese government is doing less to artificially keep gas prices down. Full-size trucks have been sold in China for about three years and are known to be status symbols in China, says The Detroit Bureau.

There is, of course, a catch. The Denali, unlike most General Motors vehicles sold in China, is built in the U.S., so the price tag is about $134,000, or almost three times what the model sells for in the States. Here's hoping a few free car washes come with those full tanks.

Shanghai GMC dealer offering five tons of free gas with truck purchase originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 21 May 2012 14:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Source: www.autoblog.com

NHTSA opens safety investigations into Toyota, GM and Honda crossovers

Filed under: Recalls, Safety, Crossover, GMC, Honda, Saturn, Toyota

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is evidently keeping itself very busy these days, as the federal agency has just announced it is launching or renewing investigations into Toyota, Honda and General Motors crossovers.

2006-2008 model year Toyota RAV4 crossovers are under review for allegations of rear tie-rod rust which can result in failure. NHTSA also said it is probing some 35 complaints about 2005 Honda Pilot models with inappropriate activation of the vehicles' stability control system. The alleged malfunction can cause the vehicles to slow down or stop in bad unsafe situations. At the moment, NHTSA is reviewing a petition regarding the Pilot issue, a move that will determine whether it needs to open a full-blown investigation.

In addition, Saturn Outlook and GMC Acadia three-row crossovers built in 2007-2009 are getting looked at for "loss of low beam headlamp" function. One complainant said the wiring in his Outlook overheated and melted. NHTSA says it has received 415 complaints about the problem and a GM spokesman confirmed that the automaker already started a "Customer Satisfaction Program" in December to address the issue.

Toyota spokesman Brian Lyons tells the The Detroit News, "We will fully cooperate with its [NHTSA] investigation." At least four of the complaints about the RAV4 claimed the tie rod failed at speeds above 35 mph, resulting in a loss of control. The NHTSA investigation summary states, "Pictures provided by some complainants show the wheel adjacent to the failed component severely out of wheel alignment with respect to toe and camber."

No word on the timeframe for these investigations before it can be determined whether or not a recall is warranted.

NHTSA opens safety investigations into Toyota, GM and Honda crossovers originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 08 Jun 2012 18:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Source: www.autoblog.com

2013 GMC Terrain Denali to start at $34,525*

Filed under: Car Buying, Crossover, GM, GMC

GMC has broadened its blinged-out Denali line to include the smaller Terrain crossover for the 2013 model year. We're getting our first stint behind the wheel of the Denali-fied Terrain this week, and while we'll have our full report ready in the not-too-distant future, we can share this bit of news right now: The newest member of the Terrain family will officially be priced from $34,525 - not including (*)$825 for destination - when it goes on sale in the third quarter of this year.

That coin will get you a Denali with GM's well-received 2.4-liter inline-four and front-wheel drive, and this top-shelf Terrain comes standard with things like GMC's Intellilink infotainment system, a programmable power liftgate, an eight-way power driver's seat and new dual-flow dampers for the front suspension. All-wheel drive can be had for an additional $1,750.

The big change for the 2013 Denali model is the availability of GM's 301-horsepower direct-injected 3.6-liter V6, available with both front- and all-wheel drive. Opting for the V6 will cost you $1,500, though that price also includes an upgrade to 19-inch chrome clad wheels versus the standard 18-inch rollers.

Scroll down for the full details in GM's press release.

Continue reading 2013 GMC Terrain Denali to start at $34,525*

2013 GMC Terrain Denali to start at $34,525* originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 12 Jun 2012 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Source: www.autoblog.com

2013 GMC Terrain Denali

Filed under: Crossover, GMC, First Drives, Design/Style, Luxury

An Engine Upgrade Is Our Sort Of Bling



Admittedly, when GMC invited us to drive the new 2013 Terrain Denali, the summons did not incite argument over which one of us wanted to attend as much as trigger flashbacks to Envoy Denali and Diamond Edition Jimmy models. It's not that we are averse to the "Professional Grade" version of the Chevrolet Equinox. In fact, we like this second generation of the Theta-platform crossovers just fine. It's just that, collectively, midsize crossovers are about as exciting as watching sun tea brew. And this wasn't even a new vehicle, just a familiar trim package being pushed further on down the product line. The Denali badge has become something of a right of passage for GMC vehicles approaching that awkward, no-longer-new phase of their lifecycle. Special grille and extra chrome trim? For sure. Upgraded interior? Check. A new powertrain? Now they had our attention.

So we hopped into our long-term Mini Countryman and headed north. Pulling into our hotel in Traverse City, Michigan, we were presented with our test vehicle. A loaded, all-wheel-drive model with a V6, the 2013 Terrain Denali we drove retails for $41,720, including delivery. That's over $15,000 more than the list price for the cheapest 2012 Terrain, representing a 58-percent upsell. Of course, you don't have to drop forty large for a Terrain Denali - base MSRP is $35,350 for the four-cylinder, front-wheel drive model.

If you're curious how the Denali badge can be applied to such a grocery getter, consider the following: Over a quarter of all GMC vehicles sold are Denalis. For the seven-seat Acadia, the most recent model to get the Mount McKinley treatment, that ratio is more like one in three. (Acadia Denali doesn't even get any hardware upgrades, by the way.) Further, we were told GMC is currently selling some 70 percent of Terrains with four-cylinder engines. So it only makes sense that GMC would sever the conventional relationship between top-level trim and top-of-the-line powertrain.

Continue reading 2013 GMC Terrain Denali

2013 GMC Terrain Denali originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 14 Jun 2012 11:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Source: www.autoblog.com

General Motors design ranks get big overhaul

Filed under: Europe, Hirings/Firings/Layoffs, Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, GM, GMC, Design/Style

General Motors has given its global design team a good shake in an attempt to create "a more brand-focused design organization." Effective August 1, Ken Parkinson, who currently serves as executive director of North American exterior design, will become the executive director of global Chevrolet and GMC design. Current vice president of GM Europe design, Mark Adams, will move to Warren, Michigan to take over duties as the executive director of Global Cadillac and Buick design.

Meanwhile, David Lyon will move to Rüsselsheim, Germany to serve as the vice president of GM Europe Design. Lyon currently works as the executive director of North American interiors and global cross-brand design. Clay Dean is set to become the director of Global Advanced Design.

GM says the changes should allow the company to push more common design language over each brand's lineup while also increasing parts sharing where possible. Check out the full press release below for more information.

Continue reading General Motors design ranks get big overhaul

General Motors design ranks get big overhaul originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 18 Jun 2012 16:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Source: www.autoblog.com

GMC dissects the names of its own pickups

Filed under: Classics, Truck, Etc., GMC, Design/Style

Ever wondered how the GMC Sierra 1500 got is name? Or why a 1/2-ton pickup can carry almost a 2,000 pound payload? General Motors sets the record straight.

For starters, the Sierra name was first used to denote upscale trim packages in the 1970s and '80s. In 1989, the name was applied to all GMC full-size pickups. No big mystery there.

Then there's the 1500 moniker. GMC began using the numbers 1500, 2500 and 3500 in 1967. While the digits do indicate hauling capabilities, they aren't the trucks' actual cargo limits. In fact, they refer to the "first segment of vehicle identification numbers," GM says. Since then, all American automakers use 15, 25 and 35 in their trucks' names to indicate their abilities.

Then there's the 1/2-ton, 3/4-ton and 1-ton indicators. Back in 1912, the numbers meant what they said. A 1/2-ton truck's hauling prowess maxed out at a 1/2 ton. But no more...

"The payload-based naming convention for pickups existed right from the beginning," said General Motors Heritage Center Manager Greg Wallace. "The ½-ton, ¾-ton, and 1-ton models became most popular with retail customers over a few decades, not just for GMC but all manufacturers. While payload capacities have grown since, those three names stuck."

So there you go, a 1/2-ton of mysteries solved. Read the official press release below.

Continue reading GMC dissects the names of its own pickups

GMC dissects the names of its own pickups originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 29 Jul 2012 16:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Source: www.autoblog.com