Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Malaise Era All-Stars]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/17/malaise-era-all-stars-porsche-audi-corvette-/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/17/malaise-era-all-stars-porsche-audi-corvette-/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/17/malaise-era-all-stars-porsche-audi-corvette-/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

1976-1979 Porsche 930 - front three-quarter view, blue

A few weeks ago, we bid a fond happy 40th anniversary to the automotive dark ages of 1973-84 that have come to be known as "The Malaise Era" - the performance ice-age when 160 horsepower was a lot and a 0-60 time of under 10 seconds was remarkable. Like music in the 1980s, everything in automobiledom didn't suck, however. There were a few bright spots. Here are five of our favorites:

1976-79 Porsche 930, aka 911 Turbo Carrera (above)
Photo Credit: Dorotheum

While Chevrolet beat them by a decade with the turbocharged Corvair Corsa, the Germans more fully developed turbocharging through racing where General Motors couldn't. Early Porsche 930s (known technically as 911 Turbo Carreras) were a bit crude, with turbo lag that could be measured with an egg timer. They lacked an intercooler as well as brakes that were up to the task, but performance was sensational, with the buff books reporting 0-60 times of anywhere from 4.9 to 5.8 seconds and quarter-mile times of under 14 seconds. This was '60s muscle car performance at the height of the Malaise Era. Sadly, the 930 cost about six times as much as your average muscle car did.

Rob Sass is the Publisher of Hagerty Classic Cars magazine. He is a regular contributor to the automotive section of the New York Times and is the author of "Ran When Parked, Advice and Adventures from the Affordable Underbelly of Car Collecting."

Continue reading Malaise Era All-Stars

Malaise Era All-Stars originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 17 May 2013 16:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>audiaudi quattroaudi ur-quattrocar collectorchevychevy corvettecollector carsdatsundatsun 280zxmalaise eramercedesporscheporsche 930Fri, 17 May 2013 16:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20569813/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/17/malaise-era-all-stars-porsche-audi-corvette-/20569813/article-detail.xml 20569813 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/1979-porsche-911-turbo_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/1979-porsche-911-turbo.jpg <![CDATA[Nissan NV200 puts on a Bowtie as new Chevy City Express]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/14/nissan-nv200-puts-on-a-bowtie-as-new-chevy-city-express/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/14/nissan-nv200-puts-on-a-bowtie-as-new-chevy-city-express/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/14/nissan-nv200-puts-on-a-bowtie-as-new-chevy-city-express/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2015 Chevy City Express

Your eyes do not deceive you - that is, in fact, a Nissan NV200 work van with Chevrolet badging. General Motors and Nissan today announced a partnership where the Japanese automaker will build Bowtie-badged vans for Chevy dealers to sell throughout the United States and Canada. The new van, called the City Express, is expected to go on sale in the fall of 2014.

"Our fleet customers have asked us for an entry in the commercial small van segment, so this addition to the Chevrolet portfolio will strengthen our position with fleets and our commercial customers," Ed Peper, US vice president of GM fleet and commercial sales, said in a press release.

No details have been released regarding specific changes for the new City Express, though from the images released today, it's clear that the vehicle's front fascia has been reworked, and some super-sexy new wheel covers have been added. If we're honest, the NV200 wasn't all that pretty to begin with, and this, well, isn't any better. Not that looks are of primary concern in the commercial truck business, of course.

Nissan already sells the NV200 in several global markets; it has even been selected as the New York City Taxi of Tomorrow. Pricing for the new City Express will be revealed closer to the van's launch, and we'll be curious to see how it lines up with the NV200's numbers. Either way, we think this has all the signs of a win-win for both companies - Nissan has the capacity and Chevy has a pretty pronounced need for modern commercial vans.

Have a look below for the official press release from GM.

Continue reading Nissan NV200 puts on a Bowtie as new Chevy City Express

Nissan NV200 puts on a Bowtie as new Chevy City Express originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 14 May 2013 11:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2015 chevy city expresschevychevy city expressgeneral motorsgmnissannissan nv200Tue, 14 May 2013 11:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20568180/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/14/nissan-nv200-puts-on-a-bowtie-as-new-chevy-city-express/20568180/article-detail.xml 20568180 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/001-2015-chevy-city-express628opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/001-2015-chevy-city-express628opt.jpg <![CDATA[2005-2007 Corvette investigated for faulty headlamps]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/10/2005-2007-corvette-investigated-for-faulty-headlamps/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/10/2005-2007-corvette-investigated-for-faulty-headlamps/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/10/2005-2007-corvette-investigated-for-faulty-headlamps/#commentsFiled under: ,

2007 Chevrolet Corvette

The Detroit News reports the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has opened an investigation into 103,374 Chevrolet Corvette models built between 2005 and 2007. The administration is currently looking into a headlight issue after receiving 30 complaints from owners saying that the vehicle abruptly lost both low beams. Demonstrating its uncanny affinity for the obvious, NHTSA said, "The loss of illumination impairs the driver's ability to see the roadway." Such a condition could lead to a crash.

Some of the complaints state that the problem is intermittent, while others say the issue only began after driving over an object in the road. Still others say the low beams return after the vehicle has been parked for some time. Both high-beams and fog lights remain functional in every case, however.

2005-2007 Corvette investigated for faulty headlamps originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 10 May 2013 10:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2005 chevy corvette2006 chevy corvette2007 chevy corvettechevychevy corvettecorvette headlightsinvestigationnational highway traffic safety administrationnhtsaFri, 10 May 2013 10:15:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20564840/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/10/2005-2007-corvette-investigated-for-faulty-headlamps/20564840/article-detail.xml 20564840 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/2007-corvette-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/2007-corvette-628.jpg <![CDATA[2014 Chevrolet Silverado]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/09/2014-chevy-silverado-review-first-drive/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/09/2014-chevy-silverado-review-first-drive/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/09/2014-chevy-silverado-review-first-drive/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

The Fullsize Pickup, Refined



No one's underestimating the importance of the all-new 2014 Chevrolet Silverado. While General Motors continues to shovel the current generation off dealer lots at an impressive pace, it would be too kind to simply say the old mule has started to show its age. The GMT900 platform that's rolling along under the 2013 model has been underpinning fullsize GM trucks since 2007, and while the Silverado has stayed competitive through most of the intervening six years, the past two haven't been kind to the machine.

Ford just won't quit sharpening its F-150 in one way or another, throwing interior and driveline updates at the stalwart pickup with the fevered pace of a company possessed. Like the Silverado, the F-150 is no fresh piece of hardware, but fuel-efficient and powerful engine options and a well-sorted interior put the truck consistently ahead of the now aged Chevrolet. And then there's the Ram 1500. Chrysler let loose with both barrels with the 2013 update, tearing into the fullsize market with a beautiful cabin, excellent tech and plenty of clever engineering.

Chevy engineers stood back and watched this happen, biting their tongues and whittling away all the while on the next-generation 2014 Silverado. There are only a handful of carryover parts from old machine to new, and the result is a pickup that offers more power, efficiency and refinement than the previous generation while holding the pricing line. This is, without a doubt, the best Silverado ever built, but does that make it the best pickup?

Continue reading 2014 Chevrolet Silverado

2014 Chevrolet Silverado originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 09 May 2013 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2014 chevrolet silverado2014 chevy silverado2014 silverado2014chevroletsilverado2014silveradochevychevy silveradofeaturedfirst driveFirstDrivesilverado picssilverado reviewThu, 09 May 2013 11:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20563229/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/09/2014-chevy-silverado-review-first-drive/20563229/article-detail.xml 20563229 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/03-2014-chevrolet-silverado-fd-opt_thumbnail.png http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/03-2014-chevrolet-silverado-fd-opt.png <![CDATA[GM's Reuss would like a 'nice, light, rear-drive car that's inexpensive']]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/07/gms-reuss-would-like-a-nice-light-rear-drive-car-thats-inex/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/07/gms-reuss-would-like-a-nice-light-rear-drive-car-thats-inex/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/07/gms-reuss-would-like-a-nice-light-rear-drive-car-thats-inex/#commentsFiled under: , ,



We'll admit we had to read the quote from General Motors President of North America Mark Reuss a few times just to make sure we weren't missing something obvious. But it is correct - Reuss told Automotive News he'd like "A really nice, light, rear-drive car that's inexpensive..." to join the Chevrolet line-up. Which means, if we've read this correctly, that Reuss wants the same thing that enthusiasts have been caterwauling about, like rutting cats and babies with colic, to join the Mazda Miata since the demise of the Honda S2000 - even after the arrival of the Subaru BRZ/Scion FR-S. The rest of the quote: "[W]e know that rings a bell." Indeed. As loud as Christ Church Cathedral, Mr. Reuss.

Mind you, this present-day evolution of Reuss' comments made at the 2012 Detroit Auto Show is still only wishlist material. As then, such a car is "not on the drawing board" according to AN. Even if it were, it wouldn't look like the 130R concept whose warm reception still has Reuss talking about the kind of car it represents. Nevertheless, if such a car were to appear, its sweet spot is the gentler end of the $20,000s, and it would utilize a "scalable and efficient" platform to compete against those aforementioned Japanese twins.

Feel free to speculate in Comments as to what kind of coupe Chevrolet should join the competition with, then forget this ever happened.

GM's Reuss would like a 'nice, light, rear-drive car that's inexpensive' originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 07 May 2013 11:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>130rchevychevy code 130rcode 130rgeneral motorsgmmark reussTue, 07 May 2013 11:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20560023/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/07/gms-reuss-would-like-a-nice-light-rear-drive-car-thats-inex/20560023/article-detail.xml 20560023 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/chevy-130r-concept_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/chevy-130r-concept.jpg <![CDATA[38k GM eAssist hybrids recalled for circuit board, fire risk]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/06/38k-gm-eassist-hybrids-recalled-for-circuit-board-fire-risk/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/06/38k-gm-eassist-hybrids-recalled-for-circuit-board-fire-risk/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/06/38k-gm-eassist-hybrids-recalled-for-circuit-board-fire-risk/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

2013 Chevy Malibu Eco

General Motors has issued a recall covering 38,197 2012 and 2013 model-year Chevy Malibu Eco, Buick LaCrosse and Regal sedans equipped with eAssist, and sold in the United States. The automaker will check the generator control module for proper operation. Only vehicles built before December 2012 are being recalled.

According to the automaker, a malfunctioning generator control module could slowly drain the battery, causing an indicator to light up in the dash. If that indicator is ignored, the driver may experience a stalling engine, and in some cases, "a burning or melting odor, smoke, and, in rare instances, a fire in the trunk."

GM says the issue is not with the eAssist battery pack; the smoke and fire comes from overheating of the control board. One trunk fire has been reported, but no injuries are known. Scroll down below for the official press release from GM.

Continue reading 38k GM eAssist hybrids recalled for circuit board, fire risk

38k GM eAssist hybrids recalled for circuit board, fire risk originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 06 May 2013 13:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>buickbuick lacrossebuick regalchevychevy malibu ecoeassistgmrecallMon, 06 May 2013 13:27:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20559352/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/06/38k-gm-eassist-hybrids-recalled-for-circuit-board-fire-risk/20559352/article-detail.xml 20559352 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/2013malibueco026-1303317332_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/2013malibueco026-1303317332.jpg <![CDATA[Chevy sees greener pastures with 2014 Silverado High Country]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/05/2014-chevy-silverado-high-country-official/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/05/2014-chevy-silverado-high-country-official/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/05/2014-chevy-silverado-high-country-official/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2014 Chevrolet Silverado High Country - front three-quarter view

It's no secret that fullsize pickups are the financial engines that power Detroit automakers - it's been that way for decades. In recent years, though, growing consumer appetites for dolled-up trucks has meant even more opportunities for manufacturers to line their coffers while pleasing increasingly discerning customers. Trims like King Ranch on the Ford F-Series and Laramie Longhorn on Ram trucks now include high-end amenities that were the exclusive preserve of luxury cars just a few years ago.

General Motors has been content to let its GMC brand harvest top-shelf pickup buyers for some time now - particularly with its high-line Denali models - but it's hard to turn away easy profits. GM says over 30 percent of new pickup sales now transact above $40,000, and that figure is growing by the year. Thus, it's no surprise that execs are finally letting Chevrolet get in on the action with this new range-topping High Country trim for the 2014 Silverado. Officials tell Autoblog that it's the first premium-branded Chevy pickup since the Cameo Carrier of the 1950s.

Sitting above the LTZ and Z71 off-road model, the Silverado High Country sets itself apart with trim-specific chrome grille and body-color bumpers front and rear - the only fullsize Chevy so equipped - along with unique 20-inch alloy wheels and a few bits of chrome frosting to go with the usual complement of badges. Available only in crew cab configuration, High Country will be offered in both two- and four-wheel drive with the buyer's choice of V8 engines - 5.3-liter or 6.2-liter - along with either a 5-foot, 8-inch or 6-foot, 6-inch box. There are no specific powertrain or suspension calibrations for the model.

Continue reading Chevy sees greener pastures with 2014 Silverado High Country

Chevy sees greener pastures with 2014 Silverado High Country originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 05 May 2013 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2014 chevy silverado2014 chevy silverado high countrychevychevy silveradochevy silverado high countrygeneral motorshigh countrySun, 05 May 2013 20:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20556432/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/05/2014-chevy-silverado-high-country-official/20556432/article-detail.xml 20556432 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/2014-chevrolet-silveradohighctry-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/2014-chevrolet-silveradohighctry-628.jpg <![CDATA[2014 Chevy Spark ditching four-speed automatic for CVT]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/03/2014-chevy-spark-ditching-four-speed-automatic-for-cvt/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/03/2014-chevy-spark-ditching-four-speed-automatic-for-cvt/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/03/2014-chevy-spark-ditching-four-speed-automatic-for-cvt/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2013 Chevy Spark

According to Green Car Reports, a few minor changes are on deck for the littlest Chevrolet. Christi Landy, Chevy's small car marketing director, confirmed to GCR that the 2014 model year Spark will lose its four-speed automatic transmission in favor of a continuously variable unit.

The new CVT will be offered alongside the Spark's five-speed manual transmission, and no other changes are planned regarding the car's 84-horsepower, 1.2-liter four-cylinder engine. Fuel economy numbers have not been released as of this writing, but a slight gain is expected for the new CVT model.

This isn't a huge deal to the naked eye, but we fully expect that the new CVT-equipped Spark will offer a more refined driving experience. The 2014 Spark hits Chevy dealers later this year.

2014 Chevy Spark ditching four-speed automatic for CVT originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 03 May 2013 16:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2014 chevy sparkchevychevy sparkcontinuously variable transmissioncvtFri, 03 May 2013 16:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20557346/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/03/2014-chevy-spark-ditching-four-speed-automatic-for-cvt/20557346/article-detail.xml 20557346 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/01-2013-chevrolet-spark-fd_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/01-2013-chevrolet-spark-fd.jpg <![CDATA[GM apologizing for this Chevy Trax ad dubbed 'racist' [UPDATE]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/02/gm-apology-for-racist-chevrolet-trax-ad-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/02/gm-apology-for-racist-chevrolet-trax-ad-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/02/gm-apology-for-racist-chevrolet-trax-ad-video/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Controversial Chevrolet Trax ad - screencap

In what can only be described as a growing trend, another automaker finds itself in trouble for an ad that critics are calling offensive. A new television and internet ad for the Chevrolet Trax subcompact crossover is under fire for its soundtrack, which a Chinese newspaper has labeled "racist."

The commercial blends the not-sold-in-the-US vehicle with a Flapper-era backdrop and soundtrack, and it's the latter that has General Motors spokeswoman Ryndee Carney issuing an on-the-record apology to Advertising Age: "Our intent was not to offend anyone and we're deeply sorry if anyone was offended... we're reviewing our advertising approval processes to make sure this doesn't happen again." The song in question, Booty Swing, is performed by Austrian DJ and producer Parov Stelar, refers to "the land of Fu Manchu" a place in which the girls sing "ching, ching, chop-suey." The South China Morning Post was among the first to publish a story criticizing the commercial as racist.

The ad, known as The Original Reborn, has been running in Canada - where the vehicle is on sale - and AdAge also reports that it has been featured on the automaker's European websites. Since the controversy erupted, Chevrolet has since substituted a new version of the ad that omits the lyrics, but you can view the original by scrolling below.

Controversial ads are nothing new for this industry, but there has been a bumper crop of them lately, including a recent Hyundai suicide-themed spot and a series of Indian-market Ford print ads featuring celebrity caricatures making light of S&M-tinged kidnappings.

UPDATE: A video of the song itself has been added below - it spells out the lyrics in question.

Continue reading GM apologizing for this Chevy Trax ad dubbed 'racist' [UPDATE]

GM apologizing for this Chevy Trax ad dubbed 'racist' [UPDATE] originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 02 May 2013 12:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 chevy traxbanned adsbooty swingchevychevy traxcontroversial adsoriginal rebornparov stelarvideoThu, 02 May 2013 12:45:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20556212/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/02/gm-apology-for-racist-chevrolet-trax-ad-video/20556212/article-detail.xml 20556212 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/chevy-trax-controversial-ad_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/chevy-trax-controversial-ad.jpg <![CDATA[C7 Corvette practicing as Indy 500 pace car?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/30/c7-corvette-practicing-as-indy-500-pace-car/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/30/c7-corvette-practicing-as-indy-500-pace-car/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/30/c7-corvette-practicing-as-indy-500-pace-car/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

2014 Chevrolet C7 Corvette Stingray spy shot - Indy pace car?

Although the C7 Corvette may have gotten snubbed at this year's Super Bowl, it looks like the 2014 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray will be front and center for some of the brightest lights in automotive racing. These spy shots show Chevrolet engineers testing a Stingray coupe with safety lights added to the front and rear of the car as we normally see on a pace car, and judging by the timing and the history of General Motors pacing the Indianapolis 500, it looks like this Corvette could be getting ready for next month's big race.

We contacted Chevrolet PR, who remained understandably coy on the subject, but we have good reason to believe this is, in fact, the pace car. (We also note the recently-revealed Camaro Convertible Hot Wheels Edition has already been confirmed for race-related duties, yet it hasn't been revealed as the pace car).

Preparing for pace duty, this C7 adds small strobes into the lower grille and a light bar integrated into the rear window opening, and the factory LEDs on the side of the headlights will also be programmed to flash. Judging by the white tape still covering the rocker panels, there could be other changes planned for the car as well. If this is in fact the pace car for the 2013 Indy 500, that would mark the 12th time a Corvette has led the field to the green flag. Either way, we should know soon - the 97th running of the race is Sunday, May 26.

C7 Corvette practicing as Indy 500 pace car? originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 30 Apr 2013 09:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 indy 5002014 chevy corvettechevrolet corvette pace carchevychevy corvettegeneral motorsgmindianapolis 500indy 500pace carTue, 30 Apr 2013 09:27:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20552377/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/30/c7-corvette-practicing-as-indy-500-pace-car/20552377/article-detail.xml 20552377 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/c7-corvette-indy-500-pace-car_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/c7-corvette-indy-500-pace-car.jpg <![CDATA[GM applies for LT5, LTX trademarks... are new small block variants coming?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/29/gm-applies-for-lt5-ltx-trademarks-are-new-small-block-varian/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/29/gm-applies-for-lt5-ltx-trademarks-are-new-small-block-varian/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/29/gm-applies-for-lt5-ltx-trademarks-are-new-small-block-varian/#commentsFiled under: ,

Chevrolet V8 small block cutaway

Recently discovered General Motors trademark applications for LT4, LT5, LT88 and LTX have observers wondering what kind of high-performance offerings could be on their way. A new LT4 would mark a return of the engine designation first used on the Corvette Grand Sport, SLP Pontiac Firehawk and SLP Chevrolet Camaro SS from 1996 and 1997. Supposition at Corvette Forum - which provided advance intel on the C7 like these leaked images - believes a new LT4 could go into the high-performance trim of the next-gen, 2015 Camaro that would be more powerful than the 580-horsepower Camaro ZL1.

Seeing an LT5 again would also be déjà vu - in its former life it was a 5.7-liter V8 for the C4 Corvette ZR-1 from 1990-1994 designed by Lotus, producing from 370 hp to 405 hp. A mix of rumor and hope is that the new LT5 will be a supercharged evolution of the 6.2-liter LT1 (pictured) placed in the new C7 Corvette, and that it will go into the C7 version of the ZR1 pumping out something like 700 hp.

The LTX trademark is, as with that last letter, a complete mystery. If the "X" isn't a generic way to denote the whole LT family, it's wondered if it LTX could refer to a crate motor offering like the LSX.

GM applies for LT5, LTX trademarks... are new small block variants coming? originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 29 Apr 2013 17:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chevroletchevychevy camarochevy corvettegml88lt4lt5ltxsmall blocktrademarkMon, 29 Apr 2013 17:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20552029/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/29/gm-applies-for-lt5-ltx-trademarks-are-new-small-block-varian/20552029/article-detail.xml 20552029 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/new-small-blocks_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/new-small-blocks.jpg <![CDATA[Tarantino's stolen Chevy Malibu from Pulp Fiction recovered after 19 years [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/29/tarantinos-stolen-chevy-malibu-from-pulp-fiction-recovered-afte/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/29/tarantinos-stolen-chevy-malibu-from-pulp-fiction-recovered-afte/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/29/tarantinos-stolen-chevy-malibu-from-pulp-fiction-recovered-afte/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Vincent Vega and Mrs. Mia Wallace from Pulp Fiction in '64 Chevrolet Malibu

Quentin Tarantino fans will likely remember Vincent Vega's cherry 1964 Chevrolet Malibu Convertible in Pulp Fiction. In a movie drenched in automotive references, the Malibu is very nearly a character in and of itself, and it serves as the subject of Vega's soliloquy about the kind of man who vandalizes another's automobile. It also happened to be Tarantino's personal car when the film was shot, and was apparently stolen shortly after production wrapped. Now police have located the car some 19 years later.

As it turns out, the thieves cloned the vehicle identification number from another '64 Malibu and had the car registered under the new digits. It was then sold to an unsuspecting buyer. Police happened upon the duplicate VINs while investigating another potential theft. Right now, it's unclear whether Tarantino has taken possession of the Chevrolet, if it has remained in the possession of the fraud victim, or whether it's caught somewhere in the gears of justice. Either way, you can catch Vega's memorable thoughts on the car keying in the Pulp Fiction clip below. But consider yourself warned: the video contains explicit language as Not Safe For Work as it comes.

Continue reading Tarantino's stolen Chevy Malibu from Pulp Fiction recovered after 19 years [w/video]

Tarantino's stolen Chevy Malibu from Pulp Fiction recovered after 19 years [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 29 Apr 2013 10:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1964 chevrolet malibuchevroletchevrolet malibuchevrolet malibu convertiblechevyjohn travoltamia wallacensfwpulp fictionquentin tarantinotarantinouma thurmanvideovincent vegaMon, 29 Apr 2013 10:15:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20550889/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/29/tarantinos-stolen-chevy-malibu-from-pulp-fiction-recovered-afte/20550889/article-detail.xml 20550889 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/vincent-vega-mia-wallace-malibu_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/vincent-vega-mia-wallace-malibu.jpg <![CDATA[2014 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray priced from $51,995*]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/26/embargo-friday-4-26-12-30pm-est-2014-chevrolet-corvette-sting/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/26/embargo-friday-4-26-12-30pm-est-2014-chevrolet-corvette-sting/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/26/embargo-friday-4-26-12-30pm-est-2014-chevrolet-corvette-sting/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2014 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray - front three-quarter view on auto show display stand

After months of speculation, Chevrolet has finally revealed the official starting price of the 2014 Corvette Stingray. The base MSRP for the 450-horsepower Stingray Coupe will be $51,995, while the Stingray Convertible will go for $56,995 (*both prices include a $995 destination fee). This means that the price increase from 2013 to 2014 is just $1,400 for the coupe and $2,395 for the convertible - pretty modest increases considering the upgrade in specifications. Of course, neither price accounts for the sort of dealer markup that might grace early C7 window stickers, especially since less than a third of all Chevrolet dealers will be allocated Corvette models to sell at the car's launch.

Now, these prices are for the base car, so if you're wondering how much a fully loaded Stingray will run, Chevy has given us a good indication of that as well. The coupe we saw on display at the Detroit Auto Show (shown above), for example, would run $73,360 including options such as the $2,800 Z51 Performance Package, $2,495 competition sport seats and the $1,795 Magnetic Ride Control option - just to name a few. Stepping up to the 3LT trim level that brings a full leather interior will run an extra $8,005 over the base price.

While $20,000 in options may seem like a lot, this "as-tested" price still has the C7 competitively priced against rival coupes like the Porsche 911 and Nissan GT-R. Speaking of price comparisons, Chevrolet also points out that the C7 Stingray Z51 costs $2,200 less than the C6 Grand Sport while delivering better acceleration (0-60 mph in less than four seconds) and improved track performance (including more than 1 g in cornering).

As for equipment at the base price level, Chevy says that the coupe and convertible come standard with a seven-speed manual transmission, Bose audio and those stylish HID headlight with LED running lights. The coupe gets a removable carbon fiber roof panel and the convertible will have the ability to lower its top remotely using the key fob. More information about optional and standard equipment can be found in the press release posted below.

Continue reading 2014 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray priced from $51,995*

2014 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray priced from $51,995* originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 26 Apr 2013 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2014 chevrolet corvette2014 chevrolet corvette stingray2014 chevrolet corvette stingray convertiblec7c7 corvettechevroletchevycorvette pricingFri, 26 Apr 2013 12:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20549265/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/26/embargo-friday-4-26-12-30pm-est-2014-chevrolet-corvette-sting/20549265/article-detail.xml 20549265 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/03-2014-chevrolet-corvette-stingray-detroit-opt_thumbnail.png http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/03-2014-chevrolet-corvette-stingray-detroit-opt.png <![CDATA[Holden could get crossover based on Chevy Cruze]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/21/holden-could-get-crossover-based-on-chevy-cruze/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/21/holden-could-get-crossover-based-on-chevy-cruze/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/21/holden-could-get-crossover-based-on-chevy-cruze/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



During a discussion of the next-generation Holden Commodore and the General Motors Zeta platform, the question of an Australian-built SUV came up. Dave Leone, GM's executive chief engineer for luxury and rear-wheel-drive cars, wouldn't go any further than to say "that could be very possible," but recent events at Holden only reinforce the notion that we won't have any idea what is and isn't possible at the Aussie branch until it's actually done.

If there were such an SUV in the Holden pipeline, speculation is that it could be built on the platform for the next-generation Chevrolet Cruze, and that it could send the Captiva - imported to Australia from Thailand - into retirement. That's a lot of coulds, but it's all Aussie-market watchers have as they try to figure out what Holden's going to do for the next nine years it has pledged to build cars in Oz. Alongside that Cruze, a next-generation VJ Commodore is also promised and a locally-built SUV might make sense as a third model.

Holden could get crossover based on Chevy Cruze originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 21 Apr 2013 10:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>australiachevychevy captivachevy cruzed2xxholdenholden commodorezetaSun, 21 Apr 2013 10:02:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20545328/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/21/holden-could-get-crossover-based-on-chevy-cruze/20545328/article-detail.xml 20545328 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/chevrolet-captiva-holden_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/chevrolet-captiva-holden.jpg <![CDATA[Corvette Stingray designer lists five goals of new exterior shape]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/12/corvette-stingray-designer-lists-five-goals-of-new-exterior-shap/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/12/corvette-stingray-designer-lists-five-goals-of-new-exterior-shap/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/12/corvette-stingray-designer-lists-five-goals-of-new-exterior-shap/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2014 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray - red overhead front three-quarter view

Redesigning an icon is a difficult task, especially when you've got a blank sheet of paper in front of you and the all-new C7 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray is intended to be your final objective.

General Motors has released a new short video featuring Kirk Bennion of the Corvette's exterior design team, talking about the challenges of sculpting Chevrolet's new flagship sports car and the five goals the team had to keep in mind as it worked. In the end, Bennion's team had the pleasure of seeing their hard work take center stage as the Corvette captured the world's eyes at the Detroit Auto Show earlier this year.

Continue reading Corvette Stingray designer lists five goals of new exterior shape

Corvette Stingray designer lists five goals of new exterior shape originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 12 Apr 2013 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2014 chevy corvette stingrayc7chevroletchevrolet corvette stingraychevychevy corvettechevy corvette stingraykirk bennionvideoFri, 12 Apr 2013 18:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20537738/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/12/corvette-stingray-designer-lists-five-goals-of-new-exterior-shap/20537738/article-detail.xml 20537738 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/corvette-capture-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/corvette-capture-628.jpg <![CDATA[2014 Chevy Camaro SS gets video walkaround]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/12/2014-chevy-camaro-ss-gets-video-walkaround/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/12/2014-chevy-camaro-ss-gets-video-walkaround/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/12/2014-chevy-camaro-ss-gets-video-walkaround/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

2014 Chevrolet Camaro SS walkaround video with Camaro marketing manager John Fitzpatrick - video screencap

The new 2014 Camaro Z/28 may have been Chevrolet's little attention getter during the 2013 New York Auto Show late last month, but we mustn't forget that the rest of the Camaro range also received some pretty substantial updates for the new model year. So for those of you who might not have had the chance to soak in all of the 2014 Camaro SS' goodness, Chevrolet has released this video, in which Camaro marketing manager John Fitzpatrick gives us a proper walkaround of the refreshed coupe.

Fitzpatrick says that with the update, Chevrolet wanted to better differentiate between the V6 and V8 models, as well as giving the RS package a little more flair. Here, he shows us a number of features on a red SS RS coupe, including things like the revised front fascia with functional foglamps and the newly designed rear deck with the RS' exclusive LED taillamps.

Scroll down to watch the video, and be sure to check out our full 2014 Camaro SS coverage, here.

Continue reading 2014 Chevy Camaro SS gets video walkaround

2014 Chevy Camaro SS gets video walkaround originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 12 Apr 2013 16:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2014 chevy camarochevychevy camarochevy camaro ssgeneral motorsgmnew yorknew york 2013new york auto showvideoFri, 12 Apr 2013 16:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20538732/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/12/2014-chevy-camaro-ss-gets-video-walkaround/20538732/article-detail.xml 20538732 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/camarovideo628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/camarovideo628.jpg <![CDATA[First production 2014 Corvette Stingray Convertible auctioned for a cool million]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/05/first-production-2014-corvette-stingray-convertible-auctioned-fo/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/05/first-production-2014-corvette-stingray-convertible-auctioned-fo/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/05/first-production-2014-corvette-stingray-convertible-auctioned-fo/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2014 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray Convertible - front three-quarter view

Barrett-Jackson auctioned off the first production 2014 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray Convertible in Palm Beach this evening, with the open-top two-seater commanding a huge winning bid of $1,000,000 from Rick Hendrick, owner of NASCAR team Hendrick Motorsports.

While the Geneva Motor Show C7 prototype is pictured above (it also was shown at Barrett-Jackson), Hendrick won rights to the first retail production model (VIN undetermined at this time), allowing him to choose both color and options before his V8 sports car rolls off the assembly line in the near future. Hopefully, by the time that happens, we will all know more about its soft convertible top, double-bubble tonneau and the mechanism that opens and lowers the fully automatic roof at speeds upwards of 30 mph.

It is worth mentioning that proceeds from the sale of this first C7 droptop will benefit the Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer institute, one of 40 National Cancer Institute-designated comprehensive cancer centers in the United States that strives to prevent, detect and eradicate all forms of cancer. The General Motors Foundation is a longtime supporter of Karmanos, with nearly $6 million in support over the last 15 years.

First production 2014 Corvette Stingray Convertible auctioned for a cool million originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 05 Apr 2013 21:24:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2014 chevy corvette stingray convertiblebarrett-jacksonc7c7 stingraychevychevy corvettecorvettehendrickhendrick motorsportskarmanosrick hendrickFri, 05 Apr 2013 21:24:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20532278/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/05/first-production-2014-corvette-stingray-convertible-auctioned-fo/20532278/article-detail.xml 20532278 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/2014-chevrolet-c7-corvette-convertible-geneva-2013---01-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/2014-chevrolet-c7-corvette-convertible-geneva-2013---01-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Chevy moves to trademark Chevelle nameplate, but why?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/05/chevy-moves-to-trademark-chevelle-nameplate-but-why/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/05/chevy-moves-to-trademark-chevelle-nameplate-but-why/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/05/chevy-moves-to-trademark-chevelle-nameplate-but-why/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Chevrolet Code 130R concept - front three-quarter view

According to a report from GM Authority, General Motors has applied for a trademark on the "Chevelle" nameplate, filing the request under the "exterior badges for vehicles" category of the "goods and services" section of the United States Patent and Trademark Office. And while you certainly could argue that this is simply to protect the Chevelle nomenclature that represents a large part of Chevrolet history, GM Authority has a couple of good reasons why you might want to think otherwise.

First of all, GMA points out that companies don't necessary file trademarks for the sake of keeping up on records. Basically, if a company wants to complete the registration of a trademark, it needs to file a legal document called a SOU (Statement of Use), which requests that the applicant show the current business reason for filing the trademark. That said, a company can prolong the time it has to file an SOU by up to three years which does, sort of, account for using the trademark on a future product.

But what sort of future product? GM Authority suggests - and stay with us here - that the Chevelle name could be applied to a new coupe to slot in above the Camaro but below the Corvette. In other words, Chevrolet could bring a version of the Code 130R concept (pictured) into production, call it the Camaro, and then have the Chevelle act as a replacement for the Camaro as we know it today, meaning the 130R-based car would instead take the shape of a sort of Scion FR-S/Subaru BRZ fighter as we earlier reported.

Another option would be to slap the Chevelle name on the replacement for the Chevrolet SS sedan, which just made its introduction earlier this year. GM Authority states that the Holden VF Commodore on which the current SS is based will only be around for another three years, so this would still be within the timing of the trademark filing's Statement of Use.

Of course, this could all be nothing - or it could be something else entirely. Only time will tell. Let us know what your best guess is in Comments.

Chevy moves to trademark Chevelle nameplate, but why? originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 05 Apr 2013 16:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chevellechevychevy code 130rcode 130rtrademarktrademark applicationFri, 05 Apr 2013 16:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20532140/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/05/chevy-moves-to-trademark-chevelle-nameplate-but-why/20532140/article-detail.xml 20532140 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/03-chevrolet-code-130r-concept-detroit_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/03-chevrolet-code-130r-concept-detroit.jpg <![CDATA[2014 Chevy Silverado details continue to dribble out]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/03/2014-chevy-silverado-details-continue-to-dribble-out/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/03/2014-chevy-silverado-details-continue-to-dribble-out/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/03/2014-chevy-silverado-details-continue-to-dribble-out/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



PickupTrucks.com has gotten its hands on a few more details concerning the 2014 Chevrolet Silverado and the 2014 GMC Sierra. General Motors held a conference call on the two trucks, allowing Jeff Luke, executive chief engineer for both, to answer a few questions. Luke said truck buyers are largely concerned with power and fuel economy, and as such, GM will continue to explore new methods of providing both. That may translate into any number of drivetrain permutations, including light-duty diesel engines, eight-speed transmissions or even a twin-turbocharged V6.

What's more, both the 2014 Silverado and its GMC twin will boast a tow rating of 11,500 pounds, but only when equipped with a max-trailering package. Without that special package, the rating drops to 10,200 lbs for regular cabs and 9,700 lbs for crew cabs. Buyers will no longer be able to opt for a 4.10 gear ratio.

We're also excited to hear that GM plans on making the Z71 package into something more than just a few a stickers. While Luke didn't go into details, PickupTrucks.com says "it will get significant improvements in the future." Head over to the site for a quick rundown of the call's highlights.

2014 Chevy Silverado details continue to dribble out originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 03 Apr 2013 17:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2014 chevy silverado2014 gmc sierrachevychevy silveradogmcgmc sierraWed, 03 Apr 2013 17:45:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20528613/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/03/2014-chevy-silverado-details-continue-to-dribble-out/20528613/article-detail.xml 20528613 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/2014-chevrolet-silverado-live-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/2014-chevrolet-silverado-live-628.jpg <![CDATA[2014 Chevy Impala production commences]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/01/2014-chevy-impala-production-commences/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/01/2014-chevy-impala-production-commences/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/01/2014-chevy-impala-production-commences/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2014 Chevrolet Impala production gets underway in Canada - image of cars coming off the line

Production of the tenth-generation Chevrolet Impala began today, with the first 2014 model rolling of the line at the company's Ontario's Oshawa Assembly plant. The new Impala, which will be produced at General Motors' Detroit-Hamtramck plant in addition to the Canadian location, is expected to make an appearance in showrooms later this month. Impala assembly in Detroit will begin in May of this year.

The full-size Impala will come to market with an engine lineup that includes a 2.5-liter four-cylinder, a 2.4-liter four with the company's eAssist mild hybrid technology, and the 3.6-liter V6 that we sampled a few weeks ago. Sadly for the trivia buffs among us, Chevy didn't provide any specification information or other facts about the first-ever 2014 Impala. Scroll down to read Chevy's brief press release, or click the image above for an expanded view of the debutant Impala rolling out of the factory. History in action.

Continue reading 2014 Chevy Impala production commences

2014 Chevy Impala production commences originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 01 Apr 2013 16:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2014 chevy impalachevychevy impalaoshawaMon, 01 Apr 2013 16:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20525254/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/01/2014-chevy-impala-production-commences/20525254/article-detail.xml 20525254 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/2014-chevrolet-impala-oshawa-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/2014-chevrolet-impala-oshawa-628.jpg -1 2