Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2009 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[REPORT: GM's next-gen SUVs to be body-on-frame (otherwise they'd be crossovers)]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/24/report-gms-next-gen-suvs-to-be-body-on-frame-otherwise-theyd/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/24/report-gms-next-gen-suvs-to-be-body-on-frame-otherwise-theyd/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/24/report-gms-next-gen-suvs-to-be-body-on-frame-otherwise-theyd/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

2009 Cadillac Escalade Platinum - Click above for high-res image gallery

The GMT900 platform is by far the highest volume chassis General Motors has here in the States, as it underpins the Chevrolet Silverado, Tahoe, Avalanche and Suburban, the Cadillac Escalade/Escalade ESV, and the GMC Sierra, Yukon and Yukon XL. We never had any doubt that GM would continue to build body-on-frame trucks in the future, but with demand for SUVs shrinking quickly, some thought the body-on-frame SUV would soon be a thing of the past. Maybe not.

Our friends over at Pickuptrucks.com are reporting that the next generation of the GMT platform will be produced by Magna International's Cosma in Canada and Mexico - and that new platform will underpin the next-generation of GM SUVs along with the GMC Sierra and Chevy Silverado. Pickuptrucks quotes Magna spokesperson Scott Worden as confirming that the next generation of GM's large SUVs will come with the body-on-frame architecture. This sort of chassis tends to add weight versus a unibody platform, but it also adds capability for towing and payload at lower cost.

We're not really all the surprised that GM will continue to build BOF SUVs, especially when considering that the General sold a combined 200,000 copies of the Suburban, Yukon, Tahoe and Escalade last month alone. And last we checked, these are still relatively expensive vehicles that bring in quite a bit of desperately needed profit. And if customers are interested in a family hauler with better interior packaging and fuel economy, we're sure GM dealers will be happy to get them into a Buick Enclave, Chevy Traverse or GMC Acadia.


Gallery: 2009 Cadillac Escalade Platinum


[Source: Pickuptrucks]

REPORT: GM's next-gen SUVs to be body-on-frame (otherwise they'd be crossovers) originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 24 Nov 2009 11:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>body on frame suvBodyOnFrameSuvcadillac escaladeCadillacEscaladechevy suburbanchevy tahoeChevySuburbanChevyTahoegmt 900Gmt900suvtahoeTue, 24 Nov 2009 11:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Tahoe, Yukon and Escalade not being replaced]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/27/tahoe-yukon-and-escalade-not-being-replaced/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/27/tahoe-yukon-and-escalade-not-being-replaced/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/27/tahoe-yukon-and-escalade-not-being-replaced/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



The full-size SUV's future is on shaky legs and now, reports have surfaced that General Motors has killed the next generation Tahoe and Yukon 'utes, just weeks after announcing it would shutter its SUV plant in Janesville, Wisconsin. Of course, if that pair is buried, the Suburban and the Cadillac Escalade that use the same platform must also come to an end, at least in their current form.

Past reports indicate that the ultra-lux ride from Caddy will move to the Lambda platform for its next generation. The Tahukon pair had been slated for a redesign in 2011, and since that's reportedly not going to happen, the duo's future is definitely in question. GM will probably keep churning out the current version until it's no longer profitable to do so.

These days, any story about the General would be incomplete without some mention of Chrysler, and this one's no different. America's number three automaker just announced just last week that it would be phasing out its full-sized 'utes as well. Therefore, any possible merger of the two companies would carry on without a new large SUV platform at all. How the times have changed.

[Source: The New York Times via Inside Line]

Tahoe, Yukon and Escalade not being replaced originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 27 Oct 2008 18:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cadillac escaladeCadillacEscaladechevy suburbanchevy tahoeChevySuburbanChevyTahoeescaladegmc yukonGmcYukongmt900suburbantahoeyukonMon, 27 Oct 2008 18:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Toyota Tundra fails to score five stars in NHTSA frontal crash test]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/03/16/toyota-tundra-fails-to-score-five-stars-in-nhtsa-frontal-crash-t/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/03/16/toyota-tundra-fails-to-score-five-stars-in-nhtsa-frontal-crash-t/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/03/16/toyota-tundra-fails-to-score-five-stars-in-nhtsa-frontal-crash-t/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Toyota's not having an easy time with the Tundra so far. It's been criticized for lacking a fully-boxed frame, the internet is alight with Tundra-hate, and now along comes the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Both Regular and Double Cab variants of Toyota's intended domestic-fighter were crashed by the agency, and both only managed four stars.

While a four star crash test rating isn't horrible, the Ford F-150, Chevy Silverado / GMC Sierra and Dodge Ram all have the strength to ring the 5-star bell and win the stuffed bunny. The likelihood of injuries in a Tundra could be up to 10-percent greater than the domestic brands because of its one-star deficit. The difference could also be as small as one-percent, however, so this news may not be as significant as it sounds at first blush. All we can really say with certainty is that the Tundra performs worse when crashed into a concrete barrier at 35mph than its competition.

No doubt the Tundra's performance in this test will again focus scrutiny on the truck's frame, which is not fully boxed like its competition. According to Mike Levine from Pickuptruck.com, the Tundra's frame is split into three parts and the front piece actually is boxed. However, the frame under the cab and bed are C-channel, and they are also affected by a frontal crash. As Levine told us, the rest of the Tundra's competition now has some ammo to aim back at the Tundra in their marketing efforts.

We expect that acceptance of the brawny fullsizer from Toyota will take a little while, and it may not come until the current generation Tundra is dead and buried, but when Toyota wants something, they don't mess around. They were up front in expecting the Tundra to receive five stars and a Best Pick from the IIHS, so don't expect this 4-star rating to last long.

[Source: Pickuptruck.com]

Toyota Tundra fails to score five stars in NHTSA frontal crash test originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 16 Mar 2007 23:52:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chevroletchevycrashdodgefivefive starfive starsFiveStarFiveStarsfordfourfour starfour starsFourStarFourStarsgmgmt 900gmt900nhtsapickupramsafetystartoyotatrucktundraFri, 16 Mar 2007 23:52:00 EST<![CDATA[GM to give Chrysler some GMT900 love?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/02/16/gm-to-give-chrysler-some-gmt900-love/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/02/16/gm-to-give-chrysler-some-gmt900-love/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/02/16/gm-to-give-chrysler-some-gmt900-love/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Last evening, a source privy to the talks between Chrysler and GM, revealed to the New York Times that the General may be sharing its GMT900 SUV platform with the American half of the German-American hybrid.

Since Chrysler doesn't have a large SUV in its line-up (the Durango doesn't make the cut), the rumored platform sharing could make a bit of sense - for Chrysler. As for General Motors, the automaker's turnaround plan is in full effect and the only upside we can see is that a little extra cash in the coffers certainly wouldn't do any harm, as long as it doesn't cut into their highly-profitable SUVs.

Talks between the two automakers have supposedly gone on for about six months, which leads us to believe that some partnership between the two automakers is forthcoming. Naturally, when the NYT contacted a spokesperson for Chrysler about the leak, the response was "no comment."

Ready, set, speculate...

[Source: New York Times via Jalopnik]

GM to give Chrysler some GMT900 love? originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 16 Feb 2007 03:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chryslerDaimlerChryslergeneral motorsGeneralMotorsgmgmt900platform sharingPlatformSharingsuvtahoeFri, 16 Feb 2007 03:25:00 EST<![CDATA[The Tide is Turning: GM Expects Q4 2006 Profit, Delays Earnings]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/01/26/the-tide-is-turning-gm-expects-q4-2006-profit-delays-earnings/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/01/26/the-tide-is-turning-gm-expects-q4-2006-profit-delays-earnings/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/01/26/the-tide-is-turning-gm-expects-q4-2006-profit-delays-earnings/#comments

GM expects to turn a profit for Q4 2006 and is again restating its earnings for 2002-2006. It seemed just only yesterday when every analyst and armchair CEO had dire of predictions for GM. CEO Rick Wagoner's head was called for and bankruptcy pools were going around the offices. Things picked up in 2006 with the introduction of the GMT900 SUVs and pickups, and it looks like the corner may about to be dramatically turned with new product like Malibu, Enclave, Astra and CTS on the way. The news of the General turning a quarterly profit isn't all that surprising, but what's crazy is the latest earnings restatement.

If it seems like it's been happening a lot, well, it's because it has. Seven out of the last eight quarters have been accompanied by earnings restatements, which casts doubt upon any of GM's earnings statements, good or bad. One day we may wake up and hear that 2005 really was just a bad dream for GM and that they actually turned a profit. We kid. GM's now looking to share earnings results the week of February 5th.

[Source: Detroit News]

The Tide is Turning: GM Expects Q4 2006 Profit, Delays Earnings originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 26 Jan 2007 11:06:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Earnings ReportEarningsReportEnclaveGMGMT 900Gmt900MalibuOutlookSilveradoFri, 26 Jan 2007 11:06:00 EST<![CDATA[Whoa, Nellie: GM reigning in production at 3 SUV plants]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/12/07/whoa-nellie-gm-reigning-in-production-at-3-suv-plants/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/12/07/whoa-nellie-gm-reigning-in-production-at-3-suv-plants/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/12/07/whoa-nellie-gm-reigning-in-production-at-3-suv-plants/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

With the sales of the new GMT900 platform SUV's still strong, GM is looking ahead to assure that future inventory doesn't overrun demand as it has in the recent past. The company announced today that it will be reducing production in three plants that produce the GMC Yukon, Cadillac Escalade, and Chevrolet Tahoe from 56.5 vehicles per hour to a nice even 50. The plants will remain closed for the first half of January, extending the normal 1-week holiday shutdown to three, and then resume production at the reduced rate.

GM expects some staffing adjustments to occur, but has not yet determined how the slow down will affect employees at each assembly plant, which are located in Janesville, WI, Arlington, TX, and Silao, Mexico.

[Source: Automotive News]

Whoa, Nellie: GM reigning in production at 3 SUV plants originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 07 Dec 2006 18:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Cadillac EscaladeCadillacEscaladeChevrolet TahoeChevroletTahoecutsGeneral MotorsGeneralMotorsGMGMC YukonGmcYukonGMT900productionSUVThu, 07 Dec 2006 18:31:00 EST<![CDATA[Our Country, Our Truck: Vids debuted, no nukes]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/09/26/our-country-our-truck-vids-debuted-no-nukes/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/09/26/our-country-our-truck-vids-debuted-no-nukes/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/09/26/our-country-our-truck-vids-debuted-no-nukes/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Late last night, the embargo on GM's new Silverado ad campaign was dropped and our friends over at the Jalop' were kind enough to let us in on all the glorious and controversial details.

Now that the actual ads are starting to break cover, we're finally getting a feel for how they, ummm, feel. Across the board, it's exactly what we expected from the new campaign, but it seems that certain images that were shown to the press earlier, didn't make it into the final spots we're seeing now. The two visuals that created the biggest stir involved a shot of the "Towers of Light" projecting from Ground Zero and an aerial shot of an atomic bomb explosion.

Jalopnik has the full explanation about what went down when they asked GM's PR flacks why the images were nixed at the 11th hour.

Make the jump to see the second video.

Continue reading Our Country, Our Truck: Vids debuted, no nukes

Our Country, Our Truck: Vids debuted, no nukes originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 26 Sep 2006 14:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>general motorsGeneralMotorsgmgmt900sierrasilveradoTue, 26 Sep 2006 14:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Our Country, Our Truck: GM's Silverado marketing campaign]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/09/26/our-country-our-truck-gms-silverado-marketing-campaign/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/09/26/our-country-our-truck-gms-silverado-marketing-campaign/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/09/26/our-country-our-truck-gms-silverado-marketing-campaign/#commentsFiled under: , ,



The PR people at GM have described their new line of GMT900 pickups as, "the most important product release in General Motor's history," and it very well may be. With a new player in the market in the form of the Tundra and a new F-150 due in the near future, the General is banking on the Silverado and the Sierra to shore up the pickup truck segment in its favor.

To that end, its new ad campaign is aiming directly at who GM feels is its target demographic: rural, married men who love their families, their jobs and their country.

The new spots, which will debut during Monday Night Football, are a look back on the last 50 years of American culture, including the good, the bad and the profound. John Mellencamp serenades over images of baseball, farms and other assorted Americana, including an image of the "Towers of Light" that emanated from Ground Zero after the attacks of 9/11 and, oddly, an image of an atomic bomb test.

Our blogging brethren over at Jalopnik have a full report from the media event they attended and give a more detailed synopsis, along with some analysis of the General's newest ad campaign.

[Source: Jalopnik]

Our Country, Our Truck: GM's Silverado marketing campaign originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 26 Sep 2006 00:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>f-150f150general motorsGeneralMotorsgmgmcgmt900pickupsierrasilveradotrucktundraTue, 26 Sep 2006 00:10:00 EST<![CDATA[Spy Shots: GM's large SUVs get racier]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/08/23/spy-shots-gms-large-suvs-get-racier/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/08/23/spy-shots-gms-large-suvs-get-racier/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/08/23/spy-shots-gms-large-suvs-get-racier/#commentsUPDATE: Spy shots are GMT900 Hybrid versions. The aero gear isn't for looks, but supposedly improves aerodynamics and boosts fuel economy.

Our automotive compatriot over at Winding Road, Chris Paukert, procured spy shots of several aero-enhanced versions of the Tahoe and Yukon SUVs. The assumption gathered by these test mules is that the General may be outfitting some of their newest GMT900 SUVs with some additional flare in a move to make a more 'sporty' 'ute.

Analysis of the cosmetic upgrades centers around the front clip, which sports a lower bumper and a revised grill, as the clean-themed side steps and a modified rear end wrap up the overall look.

[Source: Winding Road]

Spy Shots: GM's large SUVs get racier originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 23 Aug 2006 08:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>general motorsGeneralMotorsgmgmt900sstahoeyukonWed, 23 Aug 2006 08:02:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: GM GMT900 pickups in motion]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/08/07/video-gm-gmt900-pickups-in-motion/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/08/07/video-gm-gmt900-pickups-in-motion/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/08/07/video-gm-gmt900-pickups-in-motion/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


click image above to watch video

The GMT900 twins have arrived and are ready to do battle. General Motors made the smart move by having its Chevy Silverado and GMC Sierra full-size pickups exceed their peers in virtually every category, but until now we've only seen the pickups in pics. We strung together a quick vid (actually it's nine minutes long) of the GMT900 pickups at their launch and also on the move out on the open road. Seeing them being driven gives a new underderstanding of how prominent their front ends really are. There are also a few interviews thrown of engineers describing the features that both trucks will have when they come to market later this year. Enjoy the show!

VIDEO: GM GMT900 pickups in motion originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 07 Aug 2006 19:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>GMT900SierraSilveradoMon, 07 Aug 2006 19:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Autoblog Podcast #36]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/08/07/autoblog-podcast-36/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/08/07/autoblog-podcast-36/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/08/07/autoblog-podcast-36/#commentsFiled under:

On this week's episode, Damon and I break down what occurred between Mazda and the RX-8 community late last week. We also go over the new GMT900 pickups and how new battle lines are being drawn in the pickup wars thanks to high gas prices. We couldn't let the week go by with talking about Playboy, as well. This month's issue of the men's magazine was chock full bunnies, Rabbits and high-priced exotics. We end the show expressing our lament for another Enzo that has bitten the dust and give our best wishes to its owners, Richard Losee, who is recovering after he and his Ferrari crashed at 200 mph and rolled seven times on a highway in Utah. Enjoy the show!

[MP3] Listen to the show now.
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Hosts
John Neff and Damon Lavrinc

Producer
John Neff

Length
33:20

Autoblog Podcast #36 originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 07 Aug 2006 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AutoblogAutoblog PodcastChevy SilveradoFerrari EnzoFord F-150GMC SierraGMT900MazdaPlayboyRichard LoseeRX-8Toyota TundraVolkswagen RabbitMon, 07 Aug 2006 15:30:00 ESTAutoblog Podcast #36Autoblog33:20Autoblog; Autoblog Podcast; Mazda; RX-8; Chevy Silverado; GMC Sierra; GMT900; Ford F-150; Toyota Tundra; Playboy; Volkswagen Rabbit; Richard Losee; Ferrari Enzo<![CDATA[Spy Shots: GM's heavy-duty pickups]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/08/03/spy-shots-gms-heavy-duty-pickups/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/08/03/spy-shots-gms-heavy-duty-pickups/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/08/03/spy-shots-gms-heavy-duty-pickups/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

GM has stated that it will be rolling out the full lineup of Silverados and Sierras early next year, and judging by this spy shot of what looks to be a production-intent Sierra 2500HD, fans of heavy hauling indeed will not have to wait long.

What we see is of little surprise - the sheetmetal appears to be largely carried-over from its half-ton brethren, but we wouldn't be shocked if there's another inch or two of hood budge hiding underneath the camo. The interior will also be brought over from the 1500 lineup. The independent front suspension remains, although we'd expect it to employ somewhat more massive components than the lighter-duty version. What we don't see yet is whether GM will use its new coil-over spring and rack-and-pinion steering architecture, or if the new HDs will continue to use torsion bars and a recirculating-ball steering box.

Don't expect much in the way of powertrain changes at the top of the lineup, as the Duramax already possesses class-leading horsepower (360 hp) and torque (650 ft-lbs.), and the existing six-speed Allison transmission does a great job harnessing that power. The 6.0L LY6 version of GM's GenIV pushrod V8 with approximately 350 hp and 380 ft-lbs. of torque will most likely be the base engine, and will be backed by the 6L90E heavy-duty version of GM's new corporate automatic transmission. A twin-turbo variant of the Duramax is rumored to be coming by the end of the decade for those who are not yet confident that they can tow their house around the block.

UPDATE: The folks at Cheers & Gears have some shots of the GM HD pickups in the open from this week's official introduction.

[Source: Popular Mechanics, GM]

Spy Shots: GM's heavy-duty pickups originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 03 Aug 2006 22:52:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>150025002500HD35003500HDChevroletChevyGMGM900GMCGMT900photospickupshotsSierraSilveradospytruckThu, 03 Aug 2006 22:52:00 EST<![CDATA[GM will debut Hybrid Silverado and Sierra late next year]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/08/03/gm-will-debut-hybrid-silverado-and-sierra-late-next-year/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/08/03/gm-will-debut-hybrid-silverado-and-sierra-late-next-year/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/08/03/gm-will-debut-hybrid-silverado-and-sierra-late-next-year/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



The folks at Inside Line managed to extract a little bit of extra news from General Motors at the debut of its new GMT900 pickups yesterday. Apparently the General plans to unveil hybrid versions of both pickups by Fall of next year. The hybrid pickups will feature the same dual-mode hybrid drivetrain that's set to appear first in the Tahoe Hybrid and be able to achieve a combined fuel economy rating of 25 mpg while mated to a V8 producing 365 horsepower and 350 ft-lbs. of torque. The price, however, will be at least $3,000 more than their gas-powered counterparts.

[Source: Inside Line]

GM will debut Hybrid Silverado and Sierra late next year originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 03 Aug 2006 09:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dual mode hybridDualModeHybridgmt900hybridsierrasilveradoThu, 03 Aug 2006 09:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Pickup wars begin with debut of 2007 Chevy Silverado and GMC Sierra]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/08/02/2007-chevy-silverado-and-gmc-sierra-fire-the-first-shot/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/08/02/2007-chevy-silverado-and-gmc-sierra-fire-the-first-shot/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/08/02/2007-chevy-silverado-and-gmc-sierra-fire-the-first-shot/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,


So they're here, what do you think?

click on any image to enlarge

This morning marked what could be a monumental moment in the turnaround of General Motors. The world's largest automaker officially introduced its new GMT900 pickups, the 2007 Chevy Silverado and GMC Sierra. After a nice buzz had been built up over early spy shots and strategically released information, the two trucks have arrived and GM is hoping for a positive reaction from consumers when they go on sale later this year. And it appears as if GM's new trucks have sent at least some of their competition back to the drawing board.

For its part, Ford has decided on what front it will fight the new GMT900s, and that's maximum tow rating. In addition to announcing the 2007 F-150 will have its price slashed by up to $1,400, the Blue Oval announced today that the truck's maximum tow rating will be increased to 10,500 lbs., which matches that of the GMT900 pickups from GM. The 2006 Dodge Ram 1500, meanwhile, can tow up to 8,850 lbs. according to its website, though any changes to the truck for 2007 have yet to be announced. The 2006 Nissan Titan tops the Dodge with a max tow rating of 9,500 lbs., but both obviously now fall short of the competition from GM and Ford. And remember that 10,000 maximum tow rating that Toyota announced for its upcoming Tundra? Doesn't sound too intimidating anymore.

Why has a pickup's maximum tow rating become so important? One reason might be that automakers realize higher gas prices are beginning to scare away truck customers who aren't planning to use their pickups to do hardcore work like towing and hauling. As the pool of potential truck consumers shrinks, those left will be the blue-collar customers that consider a truck's tow rating more important than its choice of seat fabric.

So GM has claimed first strike and Ford has bitten back. Who knows which truckmaker will make the next move, but you can bet it will be a big one.

(Follow the jump for all of GM's official pics of the new GMT900s in all their high resolution glory)

[Source: GM]

Continue reading Pickup wars begin with debut of 2007 Chevy Silverado and GMC Sierra

Pickup wars begin with debut of 2007 Chevy Silverado and GMC Sierra originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 02 Aug 2006 22:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2007GMT900SierraSierra DenaliSierraDenaliSilveradoWed, 02 Aug 2006 22:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Watch GM unveil the Silverado and Sierra at 10AM]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/08/02/watch-gm-unveil-the-silverado-and-sierra-at-10am/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/08/02/watch-gm-unveil-the-silverado-and-sierra-at-10am/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/08/02/watch-gm-unveil-the-silverado-and-sierra-at-10am/#commentsFiled under: , ,

At 10 am this morning GM will unveil two of their most important models for 2007. The Silverado and Sierra full-size pickups' debut will be broadcast live via GM's Fast Lane blog here and your auto-obsessed friends at Autoblog will provide full team coverage.

These new GMT-900-based trucks represent the General's best efforts in the overly competitive full-size truck market, with much of the company's future dependent on their success.

GM is touting the new model's fuel efficiency, towing capacity, interior amenities and exterior styling as class leading and although we have already seen a variety of photos come out in the last few days, Gary White, VP of GM's truck division, contends there is much more to expect.

With the popularity of the GMT-900 line of SUVs, it seems that the General may have a winner on their hands and White acknowledges that these new models are a key component in insuring GM's future is bright.

Watch GM unveil the Silverado and Sierra at 10AM originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 02 Aug 2006 09:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fast lane blogFastLaneBloggary whiteGaryWhitegmgmt-900gmt900sierrasilveradotruckWed, 02 Aug 2006 09:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Official GM release of GMT900 pickups surfaces]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/07/31/official-gm-release-of-gmt900-pickups-surfaces/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/07/31/official-gm-release-of-gmt900-pickups-surfaces/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/07/31/official-gm-release-of-gmt900-pickups-surfaces/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



AutoWeek got its hands on the official press release heralding GM's new pair of GMT900 pickups: the 2007 Chevy Silverado and GMC Sierra. Spy shots had already revealed the shape of the Silverado and the latest issue of Motor Trend gave us an in-depth sneak peek, but AutoWeek's got the real deal from the General itself before the material has even been released.

The skinny is that these are all new trucks from the frame up with new exteriors, new interiors and new engines. Three cab styles including regular, extended and crew cab will be offered along with three bed lengths (short at 5' 8", standard at 6' 6" and long at 8') and five suspension setups. A host of engines are available as well, including the base 4.3-liter V6 (195 hp/260 ft-lbs), a 4.8-liter V8 with an iron block (295 hp/305 ft-lbs.), four variations of the 5.3-liter V8 (two E85-capable and two non-E85 capable units with Active Fuel Management, both sets available with either an aluminum or iron block and all rated at 315 hp/338 ft-lbs.), the aluminum-block 6.0-liter V8 with Active Fuel Management and variable-valve timing (367 hp/375 ft-lbs.), and finally the 6.2-liter with an aluminum block and variable-valve timing available only on the GMC Sierra Denali (400 hp/417 ft-lbs.).

(Sift through all the details on the next generation of GM pickups after the jump, along with more official shots that have yet to be released)

[Source: AutoWeek]

Continue reading Official GM release of GMT900 pickups surfaces

Official GM release of GMT900 pickups surfaces originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 31 Jul 2006 16:24:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>GMGMT900SierraSilveradoMon, 31 Jul 2006 16:24:00 EST<![CDATA[2007 Chevy Silverado and GMC Sierra details emerge]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/07/23/2007-chevy-silverado-and-gmc-sierra-details-emerge/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/07/23/2007-chevy-silverado-and-gmc-sierra-details-emerge/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/07/23/2007-chevy-silverado-and-gmc-sierra-details-emerge/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Though Brenda Priddy revealed the shape of the 2007 Chevy Silverado back in early June, details about the new GMT900 pickups from General Motors have been sparse. The September issue of Motor Trend contains all the deets you'd ever want to know about the General's big pickups, which Cheers and Gears has been nice enough to digitize and upload. However, we rounded up all of the details revealed in the article and assembled them below. Follow this link to view all three body styles of the Silverado and its interior, as well as our first look at the GMC Sierra.

2007 Chevy Silverado and GMC Sierra
  • All-new frame
  • New coil-over front end and recalibrated rear leaf springs
  • Class-leading 10,500-lb. towing limit
  • Class leading 2,070-lb. payload limit
  • Every interior dimension larger than predecessor
  • Extended cab rear doors feature 180-degree articulation
  • Chevy and GMC versions feature unique front end, hoods and fenders
Engine lineup
  • 4.3-liter V6 (195 horsepower/260 ft-lbs.)
  • 4.8-liter V8 (285 horsepower/295 ft-lbs.)
  • 5.3-liter V8 with Active Fuel Management (310 horsepower/335 ft-lbs.)
  • 5.3-liter flex-fuel V8 with Active Fuel Management
  • 6.0-liter V8 with Active Fuel Management (345 horsepower/380 ft-lbs.)
Transmission
Four-speed automatic (beefed up for 6.0-liter V8), except for GMC Sierra Denali, which will receive the Escalade's six-speed automatic and a detuned version of its 6.2-liter V8.

[Source: Sept. 2006 issue of Motor Trend, Chears and Gears]

2007 Chevy Silverado and GMC Sierra details emerge originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 23 Jul 2006 00:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Chevy SilveradoChevySilveradoGMC SierraGmcSierraGMT900SierraSilveradoSun, 23 Jul 2006 00:26:00 EST<![CDATA[Spy shots! 2008 Chevrolet Silverado]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/06/12/spy-shots-2008-chevrolet-silverado/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/06/12/spy-shots-2008-chevrolet-silverado/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/06/12/spy-shots-2008-chevrolet-silverado/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Autoblog tipster Jai pointed us in the direction of a pristine set of spy shots of the new Chevy Silverado, completely uncloaked. The GMT900-based new Silverado is clearly differentiated from its SUV siblings, but early comments on various message boards are mixed. Check out the full photos here, and tell us what you think.

[Source: speedsportlife.com]

Spy shots! 2008 Chevrolet Silverado originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 12 Jun 2006 14:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2008 silveradogmt-900gmt900silveradoMon, 12 Jun 2006 14:35:00 EST<![CDATA[Cadillac Escalade leading charge as gas guzzlers flourishing despite fuel prices?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/05/18/cadillac-escalade-leading-charge-as-gas-guzzlers-flourish-despit/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/05/18/cadillac-escalade-leading-charge-as-gas-guzzlers-flourish-despit/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/05/18/cadillac-escalade-leading-charge-as-gas-guzzlers-flourish-despit/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Despite all the carping about gasoline prices these days, sales of Cadillac's new Escalade and their ilk are boomin' louder than the gigawatt stereos they often house.

So says MSNBC, which points out that despite post-Katrina price shocks and media outlets trumpeting hybrids and new small car offerings, U.S. consumption of unleaded hooch is actually rising. In fact, fully one-in-four new cars sold in America houses a V8 engine under its hood. SUVs outpoint hybrid sales 23-1. The 'King of Bling,' Cadillac's Escalade saw its sales jump a whopping 127 percent last month.

So what gives?

While it appears that MSNBC is basing its assertions about the surprising resiliency of SUVs squarely on the load points of General Motors' massively improved GMT900 trucks, it has a point. For all of the hype surrounding the newer generation of crossover vehicles and more fuel efficient body-on-frame SUVs, conventional cars and wagons with smaller displacement engines remain significantly better when judged by a fuel gauge. And yet a good portion of American consumers won't touch them, despite their inherently superior driving dynamics and often greater cargo capacity.

So... has the death knell of the SUV been prematurely sounded? Is the American motoring lifestyle inextricably linked to large, high horsepower vehicles? Or are GM's revised full-sizers riding a wave soon to reach the shore? Have your say in 'Comments.'

[Sources: MSNBC.com; Skeptically.org]

Cadillac Escalade leading charge as gas guzzlers flourishing despite fuel prices? originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 18 May 2006 11:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Alternative FuelAlternativeFuelBody on frameBodyOnFrameDieselEscaladeFuel EconomyFuelEconomyGeneral MotorsGeneralMotorsGMGMT 900Gmt900HybridMPGSUVTahoeYukonThu, 18 May 2006 11:32:00 EST<![CDATA[Gas prices a threat to GM turnaround?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/04/19/gas-prices-a-threat-to-gm-turnaround/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/04/19/gas-prices-a-threat-to-gm-turnaround/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/04/19/gas-prices-a-threat-to-gm-turnaround/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

To all General Motors executives and news reporters proclaiming the company's new SUVs a rousing success, hold your horses-- at least through the summer. The new GMT900 siblings may be fine vehicles, but gas prices are back up and consumers are starting to feel the pinch again. While full-size SUVs like the Chevy Tahoe and GMC Yukon (pictured) appeal to buyers who would buy an SUV regardless of the state of gas prices, vehicles such like the Chevy Trailblazer and GMC Envoy are arguably more price sensitive purchases. These buyers may in fact choose a more fuel-efficient crossover vehicle instead -- a vehicle doesn't make GM nearly as much money, not to mention the fact that the company is currently experiencing a gaping hole in the mid-size crossover segment, sending potential GM buyers elsewhere.

[Source: Reuters via Stuff.co.za]

 

Gas prices a threat to GM turnaround? originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 19 Apr 2006 11:52:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Fuel EconomyFuelEconomygas priceGasPriceGMC EnvoyGmcEnvoyGMT900mileagempgWed, 19 Apr 2006 11:52:00 EST