Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[GM confirms discontinued Saturn Outlook parts used in refreshed GMC Acadia]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/10/gm-confirms-discontinued-saturn-outlook-parts-used-in-refreshed/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/10/gm-confirms-discontinued-saturn-outlook-parts-used-in-refreshed/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/10/gm-confirms-discontinued-saturn-outlook-parts-used-in-refreshed/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2013 GMC Acadia

Yesterday, Car and Driver called out GM in a snarky blog post for repurposing parts from the discontinued Saturn Outlook to refresh the GMC Acadia. GM didn't confirm C/D's suspicions at the time, but after we called and asked politely, GMC PR did answer our request.

According to spokesman Joe LaMuraglia, the 2013 Acadia liftgate glass, spoiler, rear quarter panel and rear side glass are all sourced from the Outlook. The hatch is also the same as the Saturn, but that's always been the case, as the old Acadia used the same part.

Now before you rush to judgment here, we suggest you take a good hard look at the new Acadia and tell us you don't think it looks better than the old model. We've always thought the Saturn Outlook was the more attractive of the siblings, so we don't have any issues with GM's parts-sharing tactic, especially considering all these parts are in the rear of the vehicle rather than up front in the all-important "face."

Considering that GM is likely to still be producing service parts for the thousands of Outlooks on the road, this is actually a really good move. Needless spending to refresh the Acadia when this suitable alternative already exists is the kind of smart decision that we hope GM continues to make.

GM confirms discontinued Saturn Outlook parts used in refreshed GMC Acadia originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 10 Feb 2012 15:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 gmc acadiaacadiachicagochicago 2012chicago auto showgmcoutlooksaturnsaturn outlookFri, 10 Feb 2012 15:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20169348/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/10/gm-confirms-discontinued-saturn-outlook-parts-used-in-refreshed/20169348/article-detail.xml 20169348 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/2013acadia18-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/2013acadia18-opt.jpg <![CDATA[GM appears to repurpose Saturn Outlook parts on new Acadia]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/09/gm-appears-to-repurpose-saturn-outlook-parts-on-new-acadia/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/09/gm-appears-to-repurpose-saturn-outlook-parts-on-new-acadia/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/09/gm-appears-to-repurpose-saturn-outlook-parts-on-new-acadia/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,



General Motors unveiled the company's refreshed GMC Acadia at the 2012 Chicago Auto Show yesterday, and if you were paying attention, you may have noticed something curious about the vehicle. While the new Acadia looks considerably better than its predecessor, a few components of the design looked more than a little familiar. Upon closer observation, it appears that GM has simply repurposed elements of the now defunct Saturn Outlook crossover on the 2013 Acadia. Both vehicles seem to share the same wrap-around rear glass, back hatch, tail light openings and exaggerated, squared-off fender arches.

While the vehicles are differentiated by badging, tail lamps and a rear valance, there's no denying the similarities toward the vehicle's rear. Up front, both share similar fenders, though adjustments have been made for the varying headlight designs.

That's good news if you just can't imagine life without the Saturn Outlook.

GM isn't the only automaker to pull something similar. Parts sharing is a smart way to keep costs as low as possible, and recouping the design and manufacturing costs the automaker poured into the Outlook is a smart way to keep GM's earnings headed in the right direction. For example, Chrysler famously reused Dodge Grand Caravan tail lights in the first-generation Dodge Durango. We just aren't accustomed to seeing this sort of recycling on such a grand scale or after so much time has elapsed.

GM appears to repurpose Saturn Outlook parts on new Acadia originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 09 Feb 2012 12:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 gmc acadiaacadiachicago auto showgmcoutlooksaturnsaturn outlookThu, 09 Feb 2012 12:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20168104/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/09/gm-appears-to-repurpose-saturn-outlook-parts-on-new-acadia/20168104/article-detail.xml 20168104 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/outlook-vs-acadia-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/outlook-vs-acadia-628.jpg <![CDATA[2013 GMC Acadia shows up with slightly new look]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/08/2013-gmc-acadia-chicago-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/08/2013-gmc-acadia-chicago-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/08/2013-gmc-acadia-chicago-2012/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



General Motors has lifted the veil on its refreshed 2013 GMC Acadia at the 2012 Chicago Auto Show. Designers gave the big crossover a slight redo with a new front valance, headlight details and new interior materials.

Up front, the 2013 Acadia boasts a new grille set into a more vertical nose (reminiscent of the Granite, anyone?), and buyers can now look forward to more attractive diffused LED daytime running lights on both projector and HID headlight-equipped models. At the back, the Acadia now wears wrap-around glass and a redesigned spoiler. GM has also thrown in a few more wheel design options in both 18- and 19-inch sizes.

Inside, the new Acadia offers upgraded materials, including details like French stitching and red ambient lighting. High-zoot models will boast aluminum trim work, as well.

More importantly, the 2013 Acadia will come with what GM calls the industry's first center air bag. The system is designed to protect drivers and front passengers in accidents where the impact is on the opposite side of the vehicle. The bag inflates from the right side of the driver's seat and stabilizes occupants during the crash. Follow the jump for the full press release.

Continue reading 2013 GMC Acadia shows up with slightly new look

2013 GMC Acadia shows up with slightly new look originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 08 Feb 2012 10:17:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 gmc adaciaacadiachicagochicago 2012chicago auto showgeneral motorsgmgmcWed, 08 Feb 2012 10:17:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20165274/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/08/2013-gmc-acadia-chicago-2012/20165274/article-detail.xml 20165274 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/2013acadia35-1328717578_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/2013acadia35-1328717578.jpg <![CDATA[GMC version of Chevy Colorado to look "significantly differentiated" - if it gets built]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/16/gmc-version-of-chevy-colorado-to-look-significantly-differentia/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/16/gmc-version-of-chevy-colorado-to-look-significantly-differentia/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/16/gmc-version-of-chevy-colorado-to-look-significantly-differentia/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2012 Chevrolet Colorado (global model)

The mid-size pickup truck segment should get a much-needed shot in the arm when the global Chevrolet Colorado reaches our shores in the near future. We're not exactly sure when the Colorado will be built and sold here, but thanks to its 2011 reveal we have a good idea of what it will look like. We also don't know any specs for the North American model, and we haven't received confirmation whether a GMC variant will follow to replace the current Canyon model.

Car and Driver reports that General Motors President Mark Reuss still won't confirm a GMC spinoff, but he does add that if a "Professional Grade" version of the Colorado is built, it will be very different than its Bowtie-wearing counterpart. As the current Canyon is essentially a badge-swap away from being a Chevy, the idea of increased differentiation strikes us as a welcome development. We aren't exactly sure how much different the would-be pickup might be, but we're guessing that Reuss is referring to more unique parts than than the front fascia and minor trim enhancements that differentiate the GMC Sierra from the Silverado.

Reuss also tells C/D that the new Colorado is surprisingly large - about 90-95 percent of the size of the Silverado, and he notes the truck will feature different powertrains. We assumed that the Colorado will feature different powertrains, and we hope that a fuel-efficient six-cylinder and a diesel offering will be available under the hood.

GMC version of Chevy Colorado to look "significantly differentiated" - if it gets built originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 16 Jan 2012 14:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 chevrolet colorado2013 chevrolet colorado2013 gmc canyonchevroletchevycoloradogmgmcgmc canyonmark reussMon, 16 Jan 2012 14:04:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20148909/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/16/gmc-version-of-chevy-colorado-to-look-significantly-differentia/20148909/article-detail.xml 20148909 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/global-chevrolet-colorado-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/global-chevrolet-colorado-628.jpg <![CDATA[GMC Granite is dead]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/11/gmc-granite-is-dead/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/11/gmc-granite-is-dead/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/11/gmc-granite-is-dead/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2010 GMC Granite Concept

It might have been a worthy successor to the Pontiac Vibe - a stylish, youth-marketed crossover - but alas, the GMC Granite may never come to be. Jim Federico, GM's small car exec, told Automotive News that the Granite concept from the 2010 Detroit auto show isn't headed into production.

Granite was rumored to be green-lighted for production, and would have been based on the Chevrolet Cruze platform, to compete with vehicles like the Scion xB and Kia Soul. We liked the concept when we saw it in 2010, but felt that the Granite was perhaps a bad match for GMC, given its small size.

While AN says Federico offered no further details, we imagine GM figures the forthcoming Buick Encore crossover probably doesn't need the competition in Buick/GMC showrooms.

GMC Granite is dead originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 11 Jan 2012 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 gmc granite conceptdetroitdetroit auto showgmcgmc granite conceptgranitegranite conceptWed, 11 Jan 2012 14:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20146295/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/11/gmc-granite-is-dead/20146295/article-detail.xml 20146295 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/gmc-granite-concept-live17-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/gmc-granite-concept-live17-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Next GMC Acadia to debut at Chicago Auto Show [UPDATE]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/10/next-gmc-acadia-to-debut-at-chicago-auto-show/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/10/next-gmc-acadia-to-debut-at-chicago-auto-show/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/10/next-gmc-acadia-to-debut-at-chicago-auto-show/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



The Chicago Auto Show has always sort of been known as a truck show, and because of that, many new pickups, SUVs and crossovers tend to debut in the Windy City. That in mind, it comes as no surprise to learn that General Motors plans to debut an all-new version of the GMC Acadia in Chicago next month. The Acadia, which launched in 2006 as a 2007 model, is indeed due for an overhaul, with its only major update being the addition of a Denali model (pictured) in 2011.

If you recall, the Acadia was the first of the Lambda crossovers to go on sale, alongside the now-departed Saturn Outlook. When asked about the possibility of a new Chevrolet Traverse or Buick Enclave making an appearance in Chicago, GMC Communications Manager Joe LaMuraglia stated that it "will be a GMC show," leading us to believe that we'll have to wait until New York or even Los Angeles to see the rest of the Lambda portfolio.

No specific details about the new Acadia were revealed at this time, nor was there any hint as to whether we'll see just the standard CUV or whether it will be joined by a Denali version. Stay tuned for the full details next month.

UPDATE: A source confirmed to Autoblog that GMC will debut a mid-cycle update of the Acadia at the Chicago Auto Show next month, not an all-new design. Expect an updated interior design and exterior tweaks.

Next GMC Acadia to debut at Chicago Auto Show [UPDATE] originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 10 Jan 2012 15:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 gmc acadiaacadiachicagochicago 2012chicago auto showgmcTue, 10 Jan 2012 15:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20145466/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/10/next-gmc-acadia-to-debut-at-chicago-auto-show/20145466/article-detail.xml 20145466 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/01-gmc-acadia-denali_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/01-gmc-acadia-denali.jpg <![CDATA[Family buried in New Mexico snowdrift for two days saved]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/27/family-buried-in-new-mexico-snowdrift-for-two-days-saved/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/27/family-buried-in-new-mexico-snowdrift-for-two-days-saved/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/27/family-buried-in-new-mexico-snowdrift-for-two-days-saved/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Family trapped in Snow video

For most of us, holiday travel is little more than a slight inconvenience, but an Amarillo, Texas family has found out just how treacherous taking to the road in winter can be. David Higgins, his wife and his five-year-old daughter packed into the family's GMC Yukon for a ski trip in New Mexico. Shortly after the trio crossed the state line, a severe snow storm descended, forcing Higgins off the road. The SUV quickly became mired in the white stuff, and it wasn't long before the entire vehicle was encased in a massive snow drift.

The Higgins called 911 for help, but dispatchers told the family the weather was too bad for anyone to come save them. Two days later, rescuers located the stranded family and pulled them from the vehicle. Presumably fearing exposure to subzero temperatures, the Higgins' stayed inside their vehicle, though it isn't clear why they didn't continually try to dig out a path to keep from being trapped inside. Fortunately, they brought along plenty of food and water, and huddled together to keep each other warm, but they say that they nearly ran out of oxygen. Hit the jump to watch an ABC report on the family's harrowing ordeal.

Continue reading Family buried in New Mexico snowdrift for two days saved

Family buried in New Mexico snowdrift for two days saved originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 27 Dec 2011 12:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>buriedburied aliveburied in snowgmcgmc yukonnew mexico snowsnow stormvideoyukonTue, 27 Dec 2011 12:45:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20135728/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/12/27/family-buried-in-new-mexico-snowdrift-for-two-days-saved/20135728/article-detail.xml 20135728 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/family-trapped-in-snow-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/family-trapped-in-snow-628.jpg <![CDATA[GM schedules 21-week idle of three truck plants]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/26/gm-schedules-21-week-idle-of-three-truck-plants/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/26/gm-schedules-21-week-idle-of-three-truck-plants/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/26/gm-schedules-21-week-idle-of-three-truck-plants/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



Four of General Motors' full-size truck plants, three of them in the U.S., will go intermittently silent for a total of 21 weeks in order to retool for 2013 model year production. The Fort Wayne, Indiana and Flint, Michigan plants have both been in the news lately as recipients of multi-million dollar investments for just this purpose.

Fort Wayne will shut down for nine weeks over the course of 10 months, from January to October of 2012, while Flint will stop production for seven weeks from June to November, and the Arlington, Texas facility will be quiet from June to December for five weeks. The Mexico plant in Silao will find out its shut-down schedule next year. GM has been stockpiling a 90-day supply of its Silverado and Sierra pickups to make up for the loss of production.

When the 2013 models arrive, unconfirmed reports indicate we can expect a new forced-induction V6, the continuation of the 5.3- and 6.0-liter V8s, and the 6.2-liter V8 going into the heavy-duty versions exclusively.

GM schedules 21-week idle of three truck plants originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 26 Dec 2011 16:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 chevrolet silverado2013 gmc sierra2013 sierra2013 silveradoarlingtonchevroletchevrolet silveradoflintfort waynegmcgmc sierrasierrasilaosilveradoMon, 26 Dec 2011 16:32:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20134992/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/12/26/gm-schedules-21-week-idle-of-three-truck-plants/20134992/article-detail.xml 20134992 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/gmpickupfactoryidel_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/gmpickupfactoryidel.jpg <![CDATA[GM and Costco partner up to sell trucks]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/04/gm-and-costco-partner-up-to-sell-trucks/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/04/gm-and-costco-partner-up-to-sell-trucks/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/04/gm-and-costco-partner-up-to-sell-trucks/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

2012 Chevrolet Traverse

Now you can get a deal on a big box at your local big box. Costco is offering its members discounted General Motors trucks and SUVs as part of a new "brand-awareness program" for the automaker, according to Automotive News. Eligible vehicles include the Chevrolet Silverado, Tahoe, Suburban, and Traverse, as well as corresponding GMC varaints, the Sierra, Yukon, Yukon XL, and Acadia.

GM will offer Costco shoppers special prices that are roughly equivalent to those it extends to employees of automotive suppliers, but the discounts won't be as steep as the ones GM employees get. Costco will also be throwing in a $500 gift card to members who purchase a new vehicle through the program, which runs through January 3, 2012.

With demand for large trucks and SUVs stagnating in recent years, the program seems like a no-brainer for GM, given that many Costco shoppers are likely prospective customers for these models. After all, you just can't fit a 36-pound roasted whole pig and an 96-roll case of toilet paper in the trunk of a Sonic.

GM and Costco partner up to sell trucks originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 04 Nov 2011 10:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>acadiachevroletcostcogeneral motorsgmgmcsierrasilveradosuburbantahoetraverseyukonyukon xlFri, 04 Nov 2011 10:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20097593/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/11/04/gm-and-costco-partner-up-to-sell-trucks/20097593/article-detail.xml 20097593 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/2012chevrolet-traverseltz-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/2012chevrolet-traverseltz-opt.jpg <![CDATA[2012 Chevy Equinox, GMC Terrain recalled over tire pressure monitors]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/26/2012-chevy-equinox-gmc-terrain-recalled-over-tire-pressure-moni/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/26/2012-chevy-equinox-gmc-terrain-recalled-over-tire-pressure-moni/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/26/2012-chevy-equinox-gmc-terrain-recalled-over-tire-pressure-moni/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

2011 Chevrolet Equinox

2010 GMC TerrainGeneral Motors is recalling nearly 34,000 2012 Chevrolet Equinox and GMC Terrain crossovers over improperly calibrated tire pressure monitoring sensors.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the monitors are required to be calibrated to illuminate a warning light any time a tire is inflated to 25 percent below the recommended level. The sensors in 2012 Equinox and Terrain models may not illuminate until the tire is much further below that threshold. NHTSA says that improperly inflated tires could lead to an accident due to premature wear and excess heat.

In addition, improperly inflated tires can reduce fuel economy and result in poor handling as well. GM will update the body control module on affected vehicles free of charge once the recall gets under way this month.

Of course, this is as good of a time as any to remind drivers to always check their tire pressure at regular intervals, regardless of what the light on the dash says. Hit the jump to see the full recall notice for yourself.

Continue reading 2012 Chevy Equinox, GMC Terrain recalled over tire pressure monitors

2012 Chevy Equinox, GMC Terrain recalled over tire pressure monitors originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 26 Oct 2011 14:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chevroletchevrolet equinox recallchevyequinoxequinox recallgmcnhtsarecallterrainterrain recalltire pressuretire pressure monitoring systemtpmsWed, 26 Oct 2011 14:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20090915/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/10/26/2012-chevy-equinox-gmc-terrain-recalled-over-tire-pressure-moni/20090915/article-detail.xml 20090915 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/2011-chevrolet-equinox-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/2011-chevrolet-equinox-628.jpg <![CDATA[GM to add eAssist to Chevy Equinox and GMC Terrain]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/06/gm-to-add-eassist-to-chevy-equinox-and-gmc-terrain/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/06/gm-to-add-eassist-to-chevy-equinox-and-gmc-terrain/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/06/gm-to-add-eassist-to-chevy-equinox-and-gmc-terrain/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

2011 Chevrolet Equinox

General Motors is aiming to improve fuel economy performance on both the Chevrolet Equinox and the GMC Terrain by integrating the company's eAssist hybrid system, according to GM Inside News. The report cites multiple unnamed sources indicating that the hybrid crossovers will debut for the 2014 model year, and that they will utilize the same eAssist system found on sedans like the Buick Regal, Buick Lacrosse and Chevrolet Malibu. The system pairs a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine with a 15 kilowatt electric motor and a 115-volt lithium-ion battery pack.

So far, GM has priced its eAssist models identically to the company's V6 offerings. If that trend continues, buyers will have their choice of fuel-efficient crossovers without having to endure a price penalty. As you may recall, the Buick Lacrosse eAssist yields an EPA-estimated 25 mpg city and 37 mpg highway, which we're guessing wouldn't be too far off of what a front-wheel drive Equinox or Terrain eAssist would be capable of returning.

GM to add eAssist to Chevy Equinox and GMC Terrain originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 06 Oct 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chevroletchevrolet equinoxchevrolet equinox eassiste-assisteassistequinoxequinox eassistgmcgmc terraingmc terrain eassistterrainterrain eassistThu, 06 Oct 2011 13:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20075449/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/10/06/gm-to-add-eassist-to-chevy-equinox-and-gmc-terrain/20075449/article-detail.xml 20075449 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/2011-chevrolet-equinox_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/2011-chevrolet-equinox.jpg <![CDATA[Fed closes investigation into GM SUV fuel sensors]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/06/fed-closes-investigation-into-gm-suv-fuel-sensors/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/06/fed-closes-investigation-into-gm-suv-fuel-sensors/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/06/fed-closes-investigation-into-gm-suv-fuel-sensors/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Chevrolet Trailblazer

Owners of 2005-2007 Chevrolet Trailblazer, GMC Envoy, Buick Rainier and Saab 9-7X SUV models with faulty gas gauges now have some recourse. According to a report in The Detroit News, General Motors will cover half the repair costs for select vehicles with malfunctioning fuel level sensors. According to a GM spokesman, that should mean paying less than $200 for the fix, provided the SUV in question has less than 120,000 miles on the clock.

GM's offer stems from a National Highway Traffic Safety Administration investigation that was launched in April, after GM and NHTSA received thousands of complaints of gauge failure. According to the report, nearly 300,000 vehicles may experience premature wear on the fuel level sensor contacts. This can lead to incorrect fuel level readings, especially after filling the tank, when the gauge may still show empty. But it can also result in the gas gauge showing more fuel than is actually in the tank, leading to the inevitable running out of gas and engine stalling. A total of 867,337 vehicles were included in the investigation.

GM issued a service bulletin to dealers in August, as well as a notification to owners. So if your Trailblazer is running on empty, you might want to check your mailbox and start looking for change under the seats.

Fed closes investigation into GM SUV fuel sensors originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 06 Oct 2011 11:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>9-7xbuickchevroletenvoyfuel gaugegmgmcnhtsarainierraniersaabtrailblazerThu, 06 Oct 2011 11:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20075308/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/10/06/fed-closes-investigation-into-gm-suv-fuel-sensors/20075308/article-detail.xml 20075308 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/trailblazer_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/trailblazer.jpg <![CDATA[GM debuts new front center airbag [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/29/gm-debuts-new-front-center-airbag-w-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/29/gm-debuts-new-front-center-airbag-w-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/29/gm-debuts-new-front-center-airbag-w-video/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

GM Center Air Bag

Just when you thought automakers couldn't shove any more inflatables into a vehicle's cabin, General Motors has introduced yet another new airbag. The company's new front center airbag is basically designed to keep the driver in place during a solo far-side impact, as well as prevent occupants from bouncing off of one another if there is more than one person in the car. The new device is set to be introduced as standard equipment on models like the Chevrolet Traverse, Buick Enclave and GMC Acadia with power seats beginning in the 2013 model year. The tethered, tube-shaped airbag deploys from the right side of the driver's seat and positions itself in the center of the vehicle.

GM says that the company's analysis of National Highway Traffic Safety Administration data revealed that far-side impact crashes accounted for 11 percent of the belted front occupant fatalities in non-rollover incidents between 2004 and 2009, and that those deaths represented 29 percent of all fatalities in all side-impact crashes.

Automotive parts supplier Takata co-developed the airbag with GM over the course of three years. Hit the jump for the full press release as well as a video of the device in action.

Continue reading GM debuts new front center airbag [w/video]

GM debuts new front center airbag [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 29 Sep 2011 13:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>acadiaair bagairbagbuickcenter air bagcenter airbagchevroletenclavegeneral motorsgmgm center air baggmctraverseThu, 29 Sep 2011 13:03:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20069673/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/09/29/gm-debuts-new-front-center-airbag-w-video/20069673/article-detail.xml 20069673 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/gm-center-air-bag-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/gm-center-air-bag-628.jpg <![CDATA[GM proposes $380M investment in St. Louis plant for midsize pickup and van]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/21/gm-proposes-380m-investment-in-st-louis-plant-for-midsize-pick/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/21/gm-proposes-380m-investment-in-st-louis-plant-for-midsize-pick/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/21/gm-proposes-380m-investment-in-st-louis-plant-for-midsize-pick/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Chevy Colorado Rally Concept

Whenever a new contract between the United Auto Workers and a major automaker is being hashed out, interesting tidbits regarding future products seem to leak out. Such is the case with the barely finalized deal between General Motors and the UAW. A report from stltoday.com indicates that General Motors is negotiating with local union leaders from the Wentzville, Missouri plant to add 1,850 new workers and a second shift to build a midsize pickup truck.

Currently, the Wentzville plant builds the fullsize Chevrolet Express and GMC Savana vans. Adding an entire second product line and another shift to the plant makes us wonder if GM is rethinking whether or not to offer the next-generation Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon pickups in the States.

GM has shown off various iterations of the next Colorado in both concept (Chevrolet Colorado Rally Concept and Show Truck) and production (2012 Holden Colorado) guises. We've also seen spy shots of mules being tested. As of this point, though, we've yet to hear official word from GM regarding the midsize truck's availability in the U.S. That said, the mouths of smaller-than-fullsize-pickup fans can officially start watering... now. Oh, and one more thing - would it be too much to ask for a small-displacement diesel?

GM proposes $380M investment in St. Louis plant for midsize pickup and van originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 21 Sep 2011 11:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>canyonchevroletcoloradocompact pickupgeneral motorsgmgm uaw contractgmcmidsize pickupuawwentzvilleWed, 21 Sep 2011 11:27:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20047850/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/09/21/gm-proposes-380m-investment-in-st-louis-plant-for-midsize-pick/20047850/article-detail.xml 20047850 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/chevy-colorado-rally_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/chevy-colorado-rally.jpg <![CDATA[GM marketing boss not concerned with Ford EcoBoost success]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/07/gm-marketing-boss-not-concerned-with-ford-ecoboost-success/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/07/gm-marketing-boss-not-concerned-with-ford-ecoboost-success/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/07/gm-marketing-boss-not-concerned-with-ford-ecoboost-success/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Ford F-150 EcoBoost

Commanding over 40 percent of the 2011 F-150 pickup's sales, Ford is making huge waves on both the sales floor and in the garages of the truck-buying and trailer-towing masses with its EcoBoost-powered models. Having driven several examples of the turbocharged and direct-injected V6, it's easy to see why - excellent performance and good fuel economy go hand-in-hand with refinement and a price that's rather easy to swallow.

So, is General Motors worried that it doesn't have a competing technology in its full-size pickups? Not according to Chris Perry, Vice President of Global Marketing for Chevrolet. In a new Ward's Auto article, Perry claims that GM can beat the F-150's fuel mileage performance with the suite of technologies in The General's arsenal when the Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra are given their next major redesigns.

"(Ford has) done a good job of marketing the EcoBoost, and that's a challenge on our side to make sure that consumers understand you can get similar mpg out of a V8 Silverado without sacrifice," Perry says. "Without sacrifice" isn't really a sentiment we can agree with, however. In point of fact, the V8 engine GM offers that posts fuel mileage figures close to the EcoBoost's is the 5.3-liter V8, and that engine's power levels (315 horsepower and 335 pound-feet of torque) pale in comparison to the 365 horsepower and 420 lb-ft delivered by the Ford.

In any case, we look forward to 2013, which is when GM is expected to roll out its next-generation full-size trucks. We fully expect to see advancements in both fuel efficiency and power, with turbocharged engines, eight-speed transmissions and even hybrids on the menu. Of course, we don't exactly expect Ford to sit on its britches 'till then, either...

GM marketing boss not concerned with Ford EcoBoost success originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 07 Sep 2011 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 chevrolet silveradochevroletecoboostf-150f-150 ecoboostfordgmgmcsierrasilveradoWed, 07 Sep 2011 14:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20035809/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/09/07/gm-marketing-boss-not-concerned-with-ford-ecoboost-success/20035809/article-detail.xml 20035809 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/09/ecoboost-burnout_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/09/ecoboost-burnout.jpg <![CDATA[2011 GMC Sierra Denali 2500]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/25/2011-gmc-sierra-denali-2500-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/25/2011-gmc-sierra-denali-2500-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/25/2011-gmc-sierra-denali-2500-review/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Big Diesel Power With A Touch Of Class

2011 GMC Sierra Denali

We're not exactly sure when it happened, but pickup trucks have long since elevated themselves beyond mere tools of the trade. Once bare-bones, utilitarian hardware with more capability than comfort, the truck has evolved into a status symbol. Move out of any urban center and into the surrounding sprawl, and lifted, diesel-chugging, three-quarter-ton pickups are fairly commonplace nowadays. And we're not just talking about rides parked outside work sites, mind you. These days, you're every bit as likely to see them parked outside the local Panera.

As you might expect, automakers are happily feeding the fire, offering a range of trucks that few will use to farm or do backbreaking labor, despite monikers that suggest otherwise. Names like King Ranch and Laramie have fed buyers a line of very profitable trucks loaded with leather-swaddled cabins and every imaginable creature comfort. General Motors is no stranger to this approach, as its GMC Denali line now extends to its monster-sized pickups. We slid behind the wheel of the 2011 GMC Sierra Denali 2500 4WD Crew Cab to see just how the big gilded beast fits into America's pickup truck landscape.

Continue reading 2011 GMC Sierra Denali 2500

2011 GMC Sierra Denali 2500 originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 25 Aug 2011 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 gmc sierra denali 2500 hdfeaturedgmcgmc+sierra+2011gmcsierra2011reviewssierrasierra denalisierra hdThu, 25 Aug 2011 11:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20026018/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/08/25/2011-gmc-sierra-denali-2500-review/20026018/article-detail.xml 20026018 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/08/2011-gmc-sierra-denali-review_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/08/2011-gmc-sierra-denali-review.jpg <![CDATA[GMC back atop HD truck towing and payload ratings]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/16/gmc-back-atop-hd-truck-towing-and-payload-ratings/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/16/gmc-back-atop-hd-truck-towing-and-payload-ratings/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/16/gmc-back-atop-hd-truck-towing-and-payload-ratings/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

2011 GMC Sierra HD

Mustang, Camaro and Challenger owners use statistics like 0-60 times and quarter-mile trap speeds to prove why their chosen muscle car is better than the rest. If there's any other segment of the industry where numbers mean everything, it's heavy duty pickups.

Need proof? Check out the latest set of towing and payload ratings for the HD versions of the Chevrolet Silverado, Ram, Ford F-Series and GMC Sierra. For what it's worth, the GM twins officially have the highest set of numbers with up to 23,000 pounds of capacity when trailering a fifth wheel, 18,000 pounds with a conventional trailer and 7,215 pounds of payload capacity when properly equipped.

So, GM's got the bragging rights... for now. We expect Ford and Ram to counter GMC's latest statistics with revised ratings of their own, after a few small tweaks allow them to earn back their place atop the HD standings. After all, it's been happening exactly this way for the last several years.

For a fun little rundown of how the three American pickup makers play the game of one-upmanship, we suggest you check out this story from our friends at PickupTrucks.com. Speaking of which, after that website's latest HD pickup comparison, at least GM has earned the right to boast by taking top honors against the F-Series and Ram.

GMC back atop HD truck towing and payload ratings originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 16 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chevroletF-Seriesf-series super dutyfordgmgmcramram hdsierra hdsilverado hdTue, 16 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20018155/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/08/16/gmc-back-atop-hd-truck-towing-and-payload-ratings/20018155/article-detail.xml 20018155 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/08/gmc-sierra-hd_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/08/gmc-sierra-hd.jpg <![CDATA[GMC Sierra 3500HD wins PickupTrucks.com "HD Hurt Locker" comparison test]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/15/gmc-sierra-3500hd-wins-pickuptrucks-com-hurt-locker-comparison/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/15/gmc-sierra-3500hd-wins-pickuptrucks-com-hurt-locker-comparison/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/15/gmc-sierra-3500hd-wins-pickuptrucks-com-hurt-locker-comparison/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

2011 GMC Sierra 3500HD

Our friends at PickupTrucks.com have just completed their "HD Hurt Locker" comparison test, in which the GMC Sierra 3500HD, Ford F-350 and Ram 3500 were put through quite a series of tests. PickupTrucks.com editor Mike Levine called it a "grueling showdown among industry heavyweights that included towing 19,000-pound fifth-wheel trailers up and over some of the most demanding grades in the United States."

After seven days of testing, Levine and the rest of the PickupTrucks.com crew found that General Motors' offering, the Sierra HD, was the most capable in this test, outperforming the Ford and Ram trucks.

At 23,000 pounds, the Sierra 3500HD boasts the maximum fifth-wheel towing capacity in the group, as well as the greatest conventional towing capacity at 18,000 pounds. Follow the jump for GM's official statement about the results, and head over to PickupTrucks.com to read the full test.

Continue reading GMC Sierra 3500HD wins PickupTrucks.com "HD Hurt Locker" comparison test

GMC Sierra 3500HD wins PickupTrucks.com "HD Hurt Locker" comparison test originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 15 Aug 2011 00:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3500f-350general motorsgmgmcpickuptrucks.comramsierrasierra 3500hdsierra hdMon, 15 Aug 2011 00:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20017389/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/08/15/gmc-sierra-3500hd-wins-pickuptrucks-com-hurt-locker-comparison/20017389/article-detail.xml 20017389 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/08/01-2011-gmc-sierra-3500hd630opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/08/01-2011-gmc-sierra-3500hd630opt.jpg <![CDATA[Unconfirmed next-generation Ford and GM truck powertrain details swirl]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/29/unconfirmed-next-generation-ford-and-gm-truck-powertrain-details/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/29/unconfirmed-next-generation-ford-and-gm-truck-powertrain-details/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/29/unconfirmed-next-generation-ford-and-gm-truck-powertrain-details/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Ford F-150 Badge

TheDetroitBureau.com is reporting a few juicy rumors about the future of full-size pickups from both General Motors and Ford. According to details supplied by shadowy sources, Ford is currently hard at task on the development of a range of new V6 engines. The powerplants are said to be under development in a range of sizes, including 2.6-, 2.7- and 3.0-liter displacements. The engines are being crafted under the codename "Nano" with a single dual-stage turbo making up for the cut in displacement. The largest of the trio is said to have a target of 300-315 horsepower, which is effectively what the current naturally-aspirated 3.0-liter V6 churns out. TDB maintains that the new V6 lumps may also work their way into the Mustang line at some point as well.

The report indicates that GM, meanwhile, is hard at work on a forced-induction V6 of its very own to fight Ford's EcoBoost surge. Additionally, the company's heavy-duty trucks will be the only models available with the big-boy 6.2-liter V8, while both light- and heavy-duty pickups will be available with the company's 6.0-liter V8. Finally, the tried-and-true 5.3-liter V8 will soldier on for the next-generation as well.

Unconfirmed next-generation Ford and GM truck powertrain details swirl originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 29 Jul 2011 16:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chevroletf-seriesfordford nanogeneral motorsgmgmcnanosierrasilveradov6v6 turboFri, 29 Jul 2011 16:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20004445/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/07/29/unconfirmed-next-generation-ford-and-gm-truck-powertrain-details/20004445/article-detail.xml 20004445 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/07/ford-f-150-badge-630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/07/ford-f-150-badge-630.jpg <![CDATA[GM will build next-gen pickups in Flint, investing $328 million]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/18/gm-will-build-next-gen-pickups-in-flint-investing-328-million/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/18/gm-will-build-next-gen-pickups-in-flint-investing-328-million/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/18/gm-will-build-next-gen-pickups-in-flint-investing-328-million/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

GMC Sierra HD at the Flint Assembly Plant

General Motors has announced that it will invest $328 million in its Flint, Michigan assembly plant to produce its next-generation GMC and Chevrolet full-size pickup trucks. Those trucks are currently manufactured in Silao, Mexico, and were built in Oshawa, Canada before that. The Flint Assembly Plant already builds the heavy-duty versions of the Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra, and adding the light-duty pickups to the mix will put all of GM's trucks under one roof.

The investment is part of a $2 billion plan that the automaker says will create or retain 4,000 jobs across 17 facilities over the next year and a half. Flint will enjoy around 150 of those positions.

GM has seen its share of the full-size pickup truck market increase from 37.7 percent in the first five months of last year to 40.4 percent over the same period of time in 2011. The next-generation Silverado and Sierra are slated to hit the market in 2013, complete with better fuel economy. Hit the jump for the press release.

Continue reading GM will build next-gen pickups in Flint, investing $328 million

GM will build next-gen pickups in Flint, investing $328 million originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 18 Jul 2011 16:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chevroletchevyflintgeneral motorsgmgmcsierrasilveradoMon, 18 Jul 2011 16:32:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19993924/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/07/18/gm-will-build-next-gen-pickups-in-flint-investing-328-million/19993924/article-detail.xml 19993924 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/07/flint-assembly-plant-630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/07/flint-assembly-plant-630.jpg -1 2