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[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[Report: GM temporarily restarts Saturn Outlook, Hummer H3 production]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/16/report-gm-temporarily-restarts-saturn-outlook-hummer-h3-produc/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/16/report-gm-temporarily-restarts-saturn-outlook-hummer-h3-produc/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/16/report-gm-temporarily-restarts-saturn-outlook-hummer-h3-produc/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Saturn Outlook - Click above for high-res image gallery

Even though both the Saturn and Hummer brands are being phased out, General Motors has reportedly revived production of both the Outlook crossover and H3 SUV to meet consumer demands.

Last month, GM assembled 1,037 Outlooks at its Lansing, Michigan facility, which is where the crossover's Lamda platform stablemates (Buick Enclave, Chevrolet Traverse and GMC Acadia) are built. A spokesperson for GM states that production was reinstated to utilize the rest of the Saturn-specific material at the facility, and that the automaker will continue to assemble the Outlook for a few more weeks.

Hummer, on the other hand, will produce 849 H3 and H3Ts to fulfill an order placed by a fleet company. GM's Shreveport, Louisiana plant will commence production of these vehicles on April 12, and the automaker says that this order will be completed no later than May 13. After that, the Shreveport plant will continue to only produce the Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon pickups, though the fate of those vehicles is rather shaky, as well.


Gallery: Saturn Outlook


[Source: Automotive News - Sub. Req.]

Report: GM temporarily restarts Saturn Outlook, Hummer H3 production originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 16 Mar 2010 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>general motorsGeneralMotorsgmh3h3thummerhummer h3Hummer H3THummerH3HummerH3toutlookproductionsaturnSaturn OutlookSaturnOutlookTue, 16 Mar 2010 16:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19402009/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/03/16/report-gm-temporarily-restarts-saturn-outlook-hummer-h3-produc/19402009/article-detail.xml 19402009 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/03/x07stot007_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/03/x07stot007.jpg <![CDATA[Confirmed: GM and Penske outline deal for Saturn - Aura, Vue, Outlook to live on]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/05/confirmed-gm-and-penske-outline-proposed-deal-for-saturn-aura/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/05/confirmed-gm-and-penske-outline-proposed-deal-for-saturn-aura/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/05/confirmed-gm-and-penske-outline-proposed-deal-for-saturn-aura/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Confirming a report we posted on earlier today, General Motors has reached a preliminary agreement to handover the Saturn marque to the Penske Automotive Group. In GM's official statement after the jump, the automaker says that the memorandum of understanding would entitle Penske to the brand's 350+ dealerships, the rights to the name and its associated iconography, as well as continued production of the Aura, Vue, and Outlook on a contract basis. As expected, the dormant Astra hatchback and the rakish Sky roadster will apparently not make the transition. No financial terms of the deal have been released.

As reported earlier today by The New York Times, that abbreviated Saturn lineup will likely be joined by vehicles procured from other overseas automakers, potentially Renault's Samsung Motors division in Korea. It is not immediately clear if Penske will use the opportunity to pair existing Saturn stores with the company's other automotive distribution channel, Smart.

According to GM, the agreement is expected to be consummated in the third quarter of this year, pending the necessary paperwork shuffling between the two companies and the federal government. Check out the official press release after the jump

[Source: General Motors]

Continue reading Confirmed: GM and Penske outline deal for Saturn - Aura, Vue, Outlook to live on

Confirmed: GM and Penske outline deal for Saturn - Aura, Vue, Outlook to live on originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 05 Jun 2009 13:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Auragm saturn penskeGmSaturnPenskePenskePenske Automotive Grouppenske saturnPenskeAutomotiveGroupPenskeSaturnSaturnSaturn AstraSaturn AuraSaturn Outlooksaturn penskeSaturn SkySaturn VueSaturnAstraSaturnAuraSaturnOutlookSaturnPenskeSaturnSkySaturnVueSmart carsmart fortwoSmartCarSmartFortwoVueFri, 05 Jun 2009 13:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19058879/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2009/06/05/confirmed-gm-and-penske-outline-proposed-deal-for-saturn-aura/19058879/article-detail.xml 19058879 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/06/penskesaturnsky_opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/06/penskesaturnsky_opt.jpg <![CDATA[BREAKING: GM reportedly agrees to sell Saturn to Penske]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/05/breaking-gm-reportedly-agrees-to-sell-saturn-to-penske/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/05/breaking-gm-reportedly-agrees-to-sell-saturn-to-penske/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/05/breaking-gm-reportedly-agrees-to-sell-saturn-to-penske/#commentsFiled under: , ,



According to The New York Times, General Motors has come to terms with a consortium led by industry icon Roger Penske to sell its ailing Saturn brand. The agreement, which is expected to be announced later today, will apparently see Penske add Saturn brand and its stand-alone showroom network to his existing portfolio of 310 global dealers.

Penske, as you may recall, already has sole distribution rights to the Smart microcar lineup in the States, and he will apparently continue to sell GM-produced Saturn vehicles initially, after which he is expected to begin importing foreign autos from companies like Renault's Samsung Motors subsidiary in Korea.

[Source: The New York Times | Image: A. Messerschmidt/Getty]

BREAKING: GM reportedly agrees to sell Saturn to Penske originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 05 Jun 2009 09:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingbreaking newsBreakingNewspenskeroger penskeRogerPenskesaturnSaturn AuraSaturn OutlookSaturn SkySaturn VueSaturnAuraSaturnOutlookSaturnSkySaturnVueFri, 05 Jun 2009 09:26:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19058712/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2009/06/05/breaking-gm-reportedly-agrees-to-sell-saturn-to-penske/19058712/article-detail.xml 19058712 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/05/sky-shunk-07-580x_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/05/sky-shunk-07-580x.jpg <![CDATA[Lambdas get IIHS Top Pick rating]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/27/lambdas-get-iihs-top-pick-rating/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/27/lambdas-get-iihs-top-pick-rating/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/27/lambdas-get-iihs-top-pick-rating/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety took some GMC Acadias and smashed them up to see how the big crossovers hold up against immovable objects, and unlike recent tests conducted for the Chevy Equinox and Pontiac Torrent, the news is positive. An AWD Acadia SLE acted as a stand-in for all of the Lambda models - Buick Enclave, Chevrolet Traverse, Saturn Outlook, and all Acadia trims included. It didn't matter whether the IIHS attacked the front, side, or rear - the CUV earned a "good" rating in all directions. With the standard fitment of Stabilitrak, the IIHS also bestowed a Top Safety Pick crown on GM's big haulers. The Lambas now have both a five-star rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick designator about which to brag.

[Source: Inside Line]

Lambdas get IIHS Top Pick rating originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 27 Aug 2008 07:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>acadia crash testAcadiaCrashTestbuick enclaveBuickEnclavechevrolet traverseChevroletTraversecrash testCrashTestenclave crash testEnclaveCrashTestgmc acadiaGmcAcadiaiihs crash suv testsiihs testingiihs top safety pickiihs top safety pick cadillac ctsiihs top safety pick...IihsCrashSuvTestsIihsTestingIihsTopSafetyPickIihsTopSafetyPick...IihsTopSafetyPickCadillacCtslambda crash testLambdaCrashTestoutlook crash testOutlookCrashTestsaturn outlookSaturnOutlooktraverse crash testTraverseCrashTestWed, 27 Aug 2008 07:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/1294897/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2008/08/27/lambdas-get-iihs-top-pick-rating/1294897/article-detail.xml 1294897 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2008/08/acadia_crash_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2008/08/acadia_crash.jpg <![CDATA[GMC cutting next-gen Acadia and Lambda-based SUT?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/06/30/gmc-cutting-next-gen-acadia-and-lambda-based-sut/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/06/30/gmc-cutting-next-gen-acadia-and-lambda-based-sut/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/06/30/gmc-cutting-next-gen-acadia-and-lambda-based-sut/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



General Motor's "commercial grade" truck unit may be losing two of its planned products, leaving some to contemplate the future of the nameplate in general. It's too early to consider GMC dead, but with the apparent cancellation of the next-generation Acadia CUV as well as the planned unibody truck inspired by the Denali XT Concept, GMC dealers are likely left wondering what, beyond the new GMC Terrain, they are supposed to be selling in the next few years. We're not all that sad to see the Acadia go as the Chevy Traverse is a better looking overall package and it makes more sense to offer the CUV as a Chevrolet anyway. What's more, with most GMC dealers also offering Buick vehicles, they'll still have the Enclave to offer potential customers.

Current rumors also predict an end to the Saturn Outlook, the slowest seller of the original Lambda-based trio, which would leave the Enclave and the Traverse as the two remaining GM crossovers. There still seems to be a good chance that Chevrolet will get an SUT based off the platform as well, so nothing too important seems to have been lost with this decision.

[Source: GM Inside News]

GMC cutting next-gen Acadia and Lambda-based SUT? originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 30 Jun 2008 12:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chevy traverseChevyTraversegmc acadiagmc denali xtgmc terraingmc xtgmc xutGmcAcadiaGmcDenaliXtGmcTerrainGmcXtGmcXutlambdasaturn outlookSaturnOutlookMon, 30 Jun 2008 12:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/1240913/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2008/06/30/gmc-cutting-next-gen-acadia-and-lambda-based-sut/1240913/article-detail.xml 1240913 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2008/06/x09gm_ac008_opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2008/06/x09gm_ac008_opt.jpg <![CDATA[Saturn officially hip, launches blog and social networking site]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/04/17/saturn-officially-hip-launches-blog-and-social-networking-site/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/04/17/saturn-officially-hip-launches-blog-and-social-networking-site/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/04/17/saturn-officially-hip-launches-blog-and-social-networking-site/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

GM is working hard to ensure that its newest automotive division, Saturn, is considered cool, hip and edgy. In this day and age, that means the interwebs, specifically a blog and social networking site. According to a post by Saturn General Manager Jill Lajdziak on GM's FastLane blog, www.ImSaturn.com will feature news about Saturn along with photos and videos you haven't seen anywhere else. Like other social networking sites, you can join in on the fun by starting or joining groups where people with like-interests gather together and talk. The first 400 members get a free t-shirt, but if you want one you'd better hurry 'cause there are already 300-plus members.

What uber-hip marketing strategy would be complete without internet speak? Saturn's got that covered too. I M Saturn and U R 2!

[Source: I M Saturn]

Saturn officially hip, launches blog and social networking site originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 17 Apr 2008 16:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>i m saturnIMSaturnsaturnsaturn astrasaturn aurasaturn blogsaturn ionsaturn networksaturn outlooksaturn ownerssaturn skysaturn vuesaturn-blogsaturn-networksaturn-ownersSaturnAstraSaturnAuraSaturnBlogSaturnIonSaturnNetworkSaturnOutlookSaturnOwnersSaturnSkySaturnVueThu, 17 Apr 2008 16:35:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/1169859/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2008/04/17/saturn-officially-hip-launches-blog-and-social-networking-site/1169859/article-detail.xml 1169859 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2008/04/imsaturn_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2008/04/imsaturn.jpg <![CDATA[GM laying off 1,000 workers at Lansing crossover plant]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/10/23/gm-layin-off-1-000-workers-at-lansing-crossover-plant/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/10/23/gm-layin-off-1-000-workers-at-lansing-crossover-plant/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/10/23/gm-layin-off-1-000-workers-at-lansing-crossover-plant/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

GM's Lambda crossover vehicles are selling well, yet the company has decided to cut one of three shifts at its Lansing plant where the vehicles are produced. The move will cut 1,000 jobs by the end of the year, of which 497 were temporary anyway. The remaining 510 low-seniority workers will either be sent to another plant, or they will enter the jobs bank. The Buick Enclave, Saturn Outlook, and GMC Acadia have sold at an average of 13,000 units per month for the past few months, and the Enclave has been sitting on dealer lots just a bit less than a month before selling. The Detroit News quoted GM spokesman Tom Wickham as saying that demand is not slacking, and that the third shift was viewed as a temporary measure to meet initial demand for three vehicles.

[Source: Detroit News]

GM laying off 1,000 workers at Lansing crossover plant originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 23 Oct 2007 09:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gm lansing lay offGMC AcadiaGmcAcadiaGmLansingLayOffLambda GM CrossoversLambdaGmCrossoverslancing lay offlancing plant lay offLancingLayOffLancingPlantLayOffLansing Delta TownshipLansingDeltaTownshipSaturn OutlookSaturnOutlookTue, 23 Oct 2007 09:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/1019425/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2007/10/23/gm-layin-off-1-000-workers-at-lansing-crossover-plant/1019425/article-detail.xml 1019425 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2007/10/enclave1_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2007/10/enclave1.jpg <![CDATA[Saturn Outlook cleans up in Consumer Reports comparo]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/07/03/saturn-outlook-cleans-up-in-consumer-reports-comparo/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/07/03/saturn-outlook-cleans-up-in-consumer-reports-comparo/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/07/03/saturn-outlook-cleans-up-in-consumer-reports-comparo/#commentsFiled under: , ,



It's no secret that import models seem to do well in comparison tests performed by Consumer Reports. While some accuse CR of being biased against American metal, we've spent enough time with the Consumer Reports crew to know that they strive for objectivity in their tests. They actually purchase test vehicles straight from the dealer rather than using manufacturer supplied media vehicles, and their results over the past decade of testing just supports what we've all felt in our gut: General Motors, Ford and the Chrysler Group have not been performing up to their potential.

In the current August issue of CR that goes on sale tomorrow, however, a domestic model, the Saturn Outlook, dominated a field of four other midsize CUVs including the Hyundai Veracruz, Mazda CX-9, Chrysler Pacifica and Ford Edge. Its performance earned it a Very Good rating and a place behind the top-rated Toyota Highlander Hybrid and Honda Pilot in the midsize SUV category and a second place spot behind the much more expensive Mercedes-Benz GL450 in the large SUV category. CR decided the Outlook could be considered in both categories because it's car-based and technically a CUV like most of its midsize competitors, but is so roomy and seats up to eight like many large SUVs.

[Source: Consumer Reports]

Continue reading Saturn Outlook cleans up in Consumer Reports comparo

Saturn Outlook cleans up in Consumer Reports comparo originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 03 Jul 2007 14:23:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>consumer reportsConsumerReportsCUVoutlookratingsaturn outlookSaturnOutlookTue, 03 Jul 2007 14:23:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/932322/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2007/07/03/saturn-outlook-cleans-up-in-consumer-reports-comparo/932322/article-detail.xml 932322 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2007/07/outlookgarage5_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2007/07/outlookgarage5.jpg <![CDATA[Lutz lets a bit of Edmunds survey slip, GM takes 13 first place picks]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/05/04/lutz-lets-a-bit-of-edmunds-survey-slip-gm-takes-13-first-place/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/05/04/lutz-lets-a-bit-of-edmunds-survey-slip-gm-takes-13-first-place/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/05/04/lutz-lets-a-bit-of-edmunds-survey-slip-gm-takes-13-first-place/#commentsFiled under:



Sometimes news is just too good to keep to yourself. Just ask GM Vice Chairman Bob Lutz. With his company supposedly claiming 13 spots on Edmund's Consumers' Most Wanted list, Lutz just had to brag a bit on the corporate blog before the winners were made public.

And he should brag. Most other car of the year awards are chosen by us automotive writers who usually prefer horsepower over hip room. As the name implies, Edmund's CMW awards are chosen by the car-buying public. And despite not voting with their wallets, the car-buying public who visits Edmund's really like their GMs.

The GMC Acadia got Most Significant vehicle of the year, beating out Honda's Fit, the Toyota Camry Hybrid, the Ford Edge and the Toyota Tundra.

Click through to see Edmund's press release as well as the other category winners.

[Source: Edmunds, GM FastLane Blog]

Continue reading Lutz lets a bit of Edmunds survey slip, GM takes 13 first place picks

Lutz lets a bit of Edmunds survey slip, GM takes 13 first place picks originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 04 May 2007 09:24:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>5 series5Series911a3a4acadiaAcadia awardsAcadiaAwardsacura tsxAcuraTsxaudi a3audi a4AudiA3AudiA4aurabmw 5 seriesBMW z4Bmw5SeriesBmwZ4bugatti veyronBugattiVeyroncadillac ctscadillac stsCadillac XLRCadillacCtsCadillacStsCadillacXlrchevrolet cobaltchevrolet corvetteChevroletCobaltChevroletCorvetteciviccobaltcorvettectsEdmunds Consumers' Most WantedEdmundsConsumers'MostWantedescaladeescalade esvEscaladeEsvford mustangFordMustangg35GM awardsGmAwardsGMC acadiaGmcAcadiahonda civichonda odysseyhonda s2000HondaCivicHondaOdysseyHondaS2000infinitinfinit g35InfinitG35kia rio5KiaRio5l2lexus ls 460LexusLs460lsls 460Ls460mazda 3Mazda3mustangodysseyoutlookporsche 911Porsche911porshce 911Porshce911RAV4rio5s2000saturn aurasaturn outlooksaturn skySaturnAuraSaturnOutlookSaturnSkySierraSilveradoskystssuburbanTacomatahoetoyota rav4Toyota TacomaToyotaRav4ToyotaTacomatsxvetteveyronXLRyukonz4Fri, 04 May 2007 09:24:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/888528/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2007/05/04/lutz-lets-a-bit-of-edmunds-survey-slip-gm-takes-13-first-place/888528/article-detail.xml 888528 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2007/05/acadia_sun_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2007/05/acadia_sun.jpg <![CDATA[AutoWeek drives the 2008 Buick Enclave first]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/04/24/autoweek-drives-the-2008-buick-enclave-first/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/04/24/autoweek-drives-the-2008-buick-enclave-first/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/04/24/autoweek-drives-the-2008-buick-enclave-first/#commentsFiled under: ,


click above image for more high-res pics of the 2008 Buick Enclave

Thinking outside the box a bit, AutoWeek figured that if a customer can drive down to his or her local Buick dealer and purchase a new 2008 Buick Enclave, there's no good reason to wait until GM's embargo on ride evaluations lifts at the end of May before having a go at one themselves. So they visited a local dealer, test drove one and reported the findings for those of us interested in learning about this highly anticipated new Buick ASAP. There was a bit of backlash the last time AutoWeek did this when they reviewed the 2007 Chevy Silverado well ahead of its embargo lifting, but we'll have to wait and see if anyone, including GM, cares much this time. Embargo breaking seems to be the norm these days and the rules are ever-changing. So what did they think of the Enclave?

Follow the jump for the rest of the summary, and make sure you click through the read link for the full write-up.

[Source: AutoWeek]

Gallery: 2008 Buick Enclave

Continue reading AutoWeek drives the 2008 Buick Enclave first

AutoWeek drives the 2008 Buick Enclave first originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 24 Apr 2007 13:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Buick EnclaveBuickEnclaveGMC AcadiaGmcAcadiaLambdaLexus RXLexusRxMazda CX-7MazdaCx-7Saturn OutlookSaturnOutlookTue, 24 Apr 2007 13:33:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/881173/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2007/04/24/autoweek-drives-the-2008-buick-enclave-first/881173/article-detail.xml 881173 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2007/04/x08bu_en018_450_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2007/04/x08bu_en018_450.jpg <![CDATA[GM recalls Saturn Outlook and GMC Acadia for faulty airbag sensors]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/02/23/gm-recalls-saturn-outlook-and-gmc-acadia-for-faulty-airbag-senso/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/02/23/gm-recalls-saturn-outlook-and-gmc-acadia-for-faulty-airbag-senso/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/02/23/gm-recalls-saturn-outlook-and-gmc-acadia-for-faulty-airbag-senso/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


The KickingTires blog at Cars.com is reporting GM has recalled its new 2007 Saturn Outlook and GMC Acadia full-size CUVs for potentially faulty airbag sensors. The problem is reportedly software related, meaning it can be fixed with a trip to the dealer and a quick patch, but every single unit sold since they went on sale in December is affected by the recall. Letters went out yesterday to owners of the Saturn Outlook and will be sent on February 28th for GMC Acadia owners.

This is not a recall mandated by the NHTSA, but rather one initiated by GM itself after the problem was discovered internally. The potentialy faulty sensor in question controls the front airbags' deployment. While this potentially faulty sensor in the Outlook and Acadia could cause injury, GM apparently caught it quickly and the fix should be cheap, easy and fast for them to apply to every vehicle affected by the recall.

[Source: KickingTires.com]

GM recalls Saturn Outlook and GMC Acadia for faulty airbag sensors originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 23 Feb 2007 18:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>acadiaairbag sensorAirbagSensorgmc acadiaGmcAcadiaoutlookpotentially faultyPotentiallyFaultyrecallsaturn outlookSaturnOutlookFri, 23 Feb 2007 18:02:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/839470/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2007/02/23/gm-recalls-saturn-outlook-and-gmc-acadia-for-faulty-airbag-senso/839470/article-detail.xml 839470 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2007/02/07acadiadrive02_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2007/02/07acadiadrive02.jpg <![CDATA[Chicago Auto Show: MotorWeek Drivers Choice Awards]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/02/07/chicago-auto-show-motorweek-drivers-choice-awards/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/02/07/chicago-auto-show-motorweek-drivers-choice-awards/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/02/07/chicago-auto-show-motorweek-drivers-choice-awards/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

We must admit that we were a bit surprised that MotorWeek's award for "Best Car of the Year" went to the Honda Fit. But, we suppose that it, uh, fits. We know, that was way too easy - feel free to mock us in the comments, we can take it. Here is the complete list of winners:
  • Best of the Year: Honda Fit
  • Best Small Car: wait for it... Honda Fit
  • Best Family Sedan: Saturn Aura
  • Best Minivan: Hyundai Entourage/Kia Sedona
  • Best Convertible: Volkswagen Eos
  • Best Luxury Sedan: Lexus LS
  • Best Sports Sedan: Infiniti G35
  • Best Performance Car: Ford Shelby GT500
  • Best Small Utility: Honda CR-V
  • Best Large Utility: Chevrolet Tahoe/GMC Yukon
  • Best Crossover Utility: GMC Acadia/Saturn Outlook
  • Best Pickup Truck: Chevrolet Silverado/GMC Sierra
  • Best Eco-Friendly: Toyota Motor Corporation
  • Best Dream Machine: Jaguar XKR, Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano, Porsche 911 Turbo
We can't say that we agree with many of these choices, but we didn't choose them, MotorWeek's editors did. We just typed them for your benefit, 'cause we're cool like that.

Chicago Auto Show: MotorWeek Drivers Choice Awards originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 07 Feb 2007 19:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Chevrolet SilveradoChevroletSilveradoEntourageFerrari GTB FioranoFerrariGtbFioranoGMC AcadiaGMC SierraGmcAcadiaGmcSierraHonda CR-VHonda FitHondaCr-vHondaFitHyundaiInfiniti G35InfinitiG35Jaguar XKRJaguarXkrKia SedonaKiaSedonaLuxus LSLuxusLsMotor WeekMotorWeekPorsche 911 TurboPorsche911TurboSaturn AuraSaturn OutlookSaturnAuraSaturnOutlookShelby GT500ShelbyGt500Toyota MotorToyotaMotorVolkswagen EosVolkswagenEosWed, 07 Feb 2007 19:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/750152/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2007/02/07/chicago-auto-show-motorweek-drivers-choice-awards/750152/article-detail.xml 750152 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2007/02/hondafit_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2007/02/hondafit.jpg <![CDATA[Bad motor mount halts sale of Saturn Outlook and GMC Acadia]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/12/12/bad-motor-mount-halts-sale-of-saturn-outlook-and-gmc-acadia/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/12/12/bad-motor-mount-halts-sale-of-saturn-outlook-and-gmc-acadia/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/12/12/bad-motor-mount-halts-sale-of-saturn-outlook-and-gmc-acadia/#commentsFiled under: ,



While we applaud carmakers that can streamline the design and production process to bring new vehicles to market quicker, we don't like thinking that they're skimping on the important stuff in the process. First Ford made all kinds of hoopla over their interesting and capable Edge (and it's Lincoln doppelganger, the MKX) only to have it delayed by production line "hiccups." That model is seen as being so important to Ford's future that we lauded the company for taking its time to fix the problems before it released the product. Fortunately production resumed relatively quickly and the CUVs have been leaving the plant at a healthy clip.

Now we learn that GM is going through a similar "hiccup" with their new crossovers, the Saturn Outlook and GMC Acadia. Unfortunately, this problem has presented itself after some of the vehicles have already been delivered to dealers, who have been instructed to hold the CUVs on lots until a fix can be applied.

The problem has been traced to a situation where water freezes atop one of the engine mounts, which can result in NVH issues. With only around 550 of the crossovers in dealer lots dealerships, it's not a huge problem; but it's these little things that can weigh heavily on consumers' minds. Drilling a few drainage holes will alleviate the water pooling and take care of the problem. The fix can be made right at the dealer according to the report. Sales should resume in a matter of days.

[Source: Automotive News, sub req]

Bad motor mount halts sale of Saturn Outlook and GMC Acadia originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 12 Dec 2006 12:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Ford EdgeFordEdgeGMC AcadiaGmcAcadiamotor mountMotorMountproduction delayProductionDelaySaturn OutlookSaturnOutlookTue, 12 Dec 2006 12:27:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/716729/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2006/12/12/bad-motor-mount-halts-sale-of-saturn-outlook-and-gmc-acadia/716729/article-detail.xml 716729 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2006/12/img_6119_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2006/12/img_6119.jpg <![CDATA[What's in a name? GM wrestles with crossover designation]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/10/13/whats-in-a-name-gm-wrestles-with-crossover-designation/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/10/13/whats-in-a-name-gm-wrestles-with-crossover-designation/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/10/13/whats-in-a-name-gm-wrestles-with-crossover-designation/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



GM is apparently just as confused as the rest of us when it comes to naming that crossover/CUV/sport wagon/tall-wagon-thingy sitting in the driveway. In general, a crossover is a unibody vehicle that looks like an SUV, but handles and gets fuel mileage more like a car. SUVs are body-on-frame vehicles, generally built on a truck platform. The differences are sometimes minute, but that is only part of the problem. The bigger problem here is what to call this segment as a whole.

In the early days of SUVs, some people called all of them Jeeps. They were trucks for passenger vehicle duty, exemplified by the Jeep Cherokee. As more manufacturers started offering them, a slew of nicknames popped up to represent the segment, but SUV ended up being the one that stuck. Despite the fact that "sport" more often refers to what you can do with the stuff you are hauling, rather than how the thing drives.

So now we are faced with a similar dilemma in the emerging crossover category. GM ad execs are trying to figure out the best way to pitch their new entries in the field. GM has three new crossovers (the Saturn Outlook, GMC Acadia and Buick Enclave) coming out at the end of the year that they are not sure how to label. "We changed the SRX advertising for Cadillac earlier this summer to call it a crossover," Mike Jackson, GM North America's vice president of marketing and advertising, said in an interview with Automotive News.

Read on for more after the jump...

[Source: Autoweek]

Continue reading What's in a name? GM wrestles with crossover designation

What's in a name? GM wrestles with crossover designation originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 13 Oct 2006 16:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Buick EnclaveBuickEnclaveCadillac SRXCadillacSrxGary TopolewskiGaryTopolewskiGMC AcadiaGmcAcadiaSaturn OutlookSaturnOutlookFri, 13 Oct 2006 16:02:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/684238/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2006/10/13/whats-in-a-name-gm-wrestles-with-crossover-designation/684238/article-detail.xml 684238 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2006/10/outlook_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2006/10/outlook.jpg <![CDATA[Seven models for 2007 that could change everything]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/09/05/seven-models-for-2007-that-could-change-everything/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/09/05/seven-models-for-2007-that-could-change-everything/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/09/05/seven-models-for-2007-that-could-change-everything/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


It's crunch time in the auto industry, there's no doubt about that. The Detroit Free Press' Mark Phelan paints the picture in the simplest -- yet starkest -- terms possible when he lays out the seven models that can make or break the profits of the major automakers.

Chevrolet Silverado: Chevy's best-selling pick-up accounts for a HUGE amount of sales and market share for General Motors, and despite its class-leading fuel economy, gas prices and other factors are shifting buyers away from full-size pick-ups.

Toyota Tundra: This full-size pickup supplies jobs to thousands of people in Indiana and Texas, true, but its real significance is as a market share cannibal to the Dodge Ram, Ford F-150 and Chevrolet Silverado. The difference is that Toyota doesn't need the Tundra to make it, but the Big 3 need their trucks to do well in order to stabilize.

Ford Edge: It's one of just a few new Ford vehicles hitting the market this year, while other automakers like Toyota and Chrysler seem to have one vehicle after another hitting the streets and infiltrating consumers' consciousnesses. More importantly, the Edge's job is to pick up those customers leaving their Explorers and other larger trucks behind.

Honda Accord: With the new Camry out, it's easy to see that Honda must step it up with the Accord to keep its status as the better-designed, better-performing alternative to the Toyota Camry. The Koreans may not be hot on Honda's heels yet in terms of sales, but with the bold(er) design of the Camry and the less expensive Hyundai and Kia models to choose from, Honda has a tall order to fill with next year's Accord.

Nissan Altima: Nissan might have experienced a comeback thanks to risky design and impressive performance. The Altima? Not so much, at least as of late. Nissan's got a lot on its plate if it wants to put itself back on the import sedan map.

Chrysler Town and Country/Dodge Caravan: It survived the SUV craze, but can it survive crossovers? And more importantly, can it survive the import minivan craze? The Chrysler Town & Country is a pillar of strength for Chrysler, but it will be hard-pressed to stay there.

Buick Enclave/GMC Acadia/Saturn Outlook: They're GM's answer to the Honda Pilot, Toyota Highlander and Lexus RX330, and critics say they have the styling and fuel economy to be true contenders. Considering the importance of the segment, GM seems to be putting its best foot forward.

[Source: Detroit Free Press]

Seven models for 2007 that could change everything originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 05 Sep 2006 06:51:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>buick enclaveBuickEnclavechrysler town 7 countryChryslerTown7CountryDodge CaravanDodgeCaravanGMC AcadiaGmcAcadiahonda accordHondaAccordnissan altimaNissanAltimaSaturn OutlookSaturnOutlooktoyota camryToyota TundraToyotaCamryToyotaTundraTue, 05 Sep 2006 06:51:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/662537/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2006/09/05/seven-models-for-2007-that-could-change-everything/662537/article-detail.xml 662537 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2006/09/buick_enclave_white_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2006/09/buick_enclave_white.jpg <![CDATA[Spy Shots: 2008 Buick Enclave]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/07/19/spy-shots-2008-buick-enclave/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/07/19/spy-shots-2008-buick-enclave/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/07/19/spy-shots-2008-buick-enclave/#commentsFiled under: , ,

We've seen the 2007 Saturn Outlook. We've seen the 2007 GMC Acadia. We've been waiting on the final member of this triad, and while General Motors hasn't officially unveiled the 2008 Buick Enclave, we do have these excellent spy shots from Cheers and Gears. Not only do these shots show an exterior that differs little from the Buick Enclave concept that debuted at the 2006 Detroit auto show, but we also get a peek at the interior, which looks markedly more luxurious than its down market siblings. C&G is reporting that while the Enclave will share virtually all of its mechanicals with Outlook and Acadia, including a 3.6-liter V6 and six-speed automatic, GM is keeping a V8 in reserves for the 2009 model year that will put even more distance between the Enclave and its Lambda platform mates.

[Source: Cheers and Gears]

Spy Shots: 2008 Buick Enclave originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 19 Jul 2006 07:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Buick EnclaveBuickEnclaveDoaneGMC AcadiaGmcAcadiaPriddySaturn OutlookSaturnOutlookspy picSpyPicWed, 19 Jul 2006 07:02:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/644483/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2006/07/19/spy-shots-2008-buick-enclave/644483/article-detail.xml 644483 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2006/07/cdoaneenclave06hi4_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2006/07/cdoaneenclave06hi4.jpg <![CDATA[2007 GMC Acadia revealed - UPDATED]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/07/12/2007-gmc-acadia-revealed/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/07/12/2007-gmc-acadia-revealed/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/07/12/2007-gmc-acadia-revealed/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



Official shots of the 2007 GMC Acadia have just surfaced on Inside Line GM's media site, and here we get our first look at the production version of GMC's first product ever to be offered without a full frame. Built on the Lambda platform that will also underpin the 2007 Saturn Outlook and 2008 Buick Enclave, the Acadia features a 267-horsepower 3.6L V6 and six-speed auto transmission. Fuel economy should range between 17 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway. It will be available in front- and four-wheel drive and can seat or eight people depending on the configuration.

After seeing the 2007 Saturn Outlook in person at the 2006 New York International Auto Show, we're a bit surprised there's not more visual differentiation between that vehicle and the Acadia. The Acadia's less cluttered face is a bit more attractive than the Outlook, which incorporates Saturn's new grille. What do you think, does this fall under the rubric of badge reengineering?

Since General Motors is working on consolidating GMC, Buick and Pontiac into a single retail network, the Buick Enclave needs to be the most distinguishable one of three, since it will be on the same dealer lots as the Acadia. GM needs to build a Buick version that resembles the Buick Enclave Concept (official website) as closely as possible, as that SUV was actually a sleeper hit of the 2006 Detroit auto show.

(Check out more pics after the jump)

UPDATE - 19 official pics, full press release and complete specifications after the jump

[Source: Inside Line]

Continue reading 2007 GMC Acadia revealed - UPDATED

2007 GMC Acadia revealed - UPDATED originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 12 Jul 2006 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AcadiaBuick EnclaveBuickEnclaveSaturn OutlookSaturnOutlookWed, 12 Jul 2006 15:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/642173/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2006/07/12/2007-gmc-acadia-revealed/642173/article-detail.xml 642173 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2006/07/x07gm_ac006_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2006/07/x07gm_ac006.jpg <![CDATA["Like always," Saturn unveils new advertising campaign]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/04/15/saturn-supports-the-brand-not-the-vehicle-in-ad-campaign/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/04/15/saturn-supports-the-brand-not-the-vehicle-in-ad-campaign/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/04/15/saturn-supports-the-brand-not-the-vehicle-in-ad-campaign/#commentsFiled under: ,

"Like always, like never before."

Sibling site Adjab reports that Saturn will be taking a different tactic in marketing its new vehicles: the Aura, Outlook, and Sky. According to the linked article Brandweek, the marketing campaign will be promoting all the vehicles as a unit with the "Like...." tagline instead of, just the Sky roadster, for example. The advertising company that developed the campaign feels it better reflects Saturn's 'togetherness' philosophy.

Will it work? Certainly the division's products are becoming more compelling, but Saturn has clearly moved away from its brandspace as the egalitarian small car company 'with a heart of gold' into a world of 8-passenger crossovers and such. Critics argue that the brand's identity is becoming very muddy in its quest to enter other segments and find profitability, and that the "Like..." campaign is a tad disingenous. Who's right? Have your say in comments.

[Sources: Adjab, Brandweek]

"Like always," Saturn unveils new advertising campaign originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 15 Apr 2006 15:06:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Ad campaignAdCampaignAdjabadvertisingmarketing campaignpublic relationsPublicRelationssaturnSaturn AuraSaturn IonSaturn LSSaturn OutlookSaturn SkySaturn VueSaturnAuraSaturnIonSaturnLsSaturnOutlookSaturnSkySaturnVuetaglineSat, 15 Apr 2006 15:06:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/608817/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2006/04/15/saturn-supports-the-brand-not-the-vehicle-in-ad-campaign/608817/article-detail.xml 608817 http://www.autoblog.com/media/2006/04/saturn-sky_thumbnail.jpg http://www.autoblog.com/media/2006/04/saturn-sky.jpg -1 2