Thursday, October 14, 2010

Cruze is out and is coming to Fargo ND!!!

In the U.S, the Cruze plays a huge role, and GM got it right. They are currently being built at the Lordstown, Ohio, plant, the new sedan is expected to become one of GM’s major sellers over the next few years. The extra year on the Continent should allow GM to work out the kinks before making the car available in its most vital market.

The Cruze is also significant because Chevrolet claims it ushers in a new styling strategy for the brand. We have to wait to see what that means for future Chevys, but we can say that the Cruze definitely looks good from nearly every angle. The front end is aggressive and powerful, and the rear impresses with its wide stance and taillights similar in shape to those of the BMW 7-series and Lexus LS. Perhaps the least original aspect is the side view; we have seen this roofline and window opening on many cars, although rarely on such a compact model. On the road, the proportions seem just right. The Cruze manages to look masculine and cool, unlike most of its competitors, which, frankly, can be slightly embarrassing to be seen in.

No Diesels for the U.S., but Expect the Turbo Four to Be Very Efficient

In Europe, the Cruze launches with two gasoline four-cylinders—a 1.6-liter that makes 111 hp and a 1.8-liter producing 139 hp—and a 148-hp, 2.0-liter turbo-diesel that likely will spawn a 123-hp variant in the future. A five-speed manual is standard on all engines; the more powerful gasoline mill can be ordered with an optional six-speed automatic. We’ll see the 1.8-liter gasoline engine here, as well as a 140-hp, 1.4-liter turbocharged gasoline four-cylinder—expected to return at least 40 mpg combined—that will debut as the car hits the North American market. And here’s hoping we’ll also be treated to a 260-hp SS version powered by the fire-breathing, turbocharged 2.0-liter Ecotec engine, although GM’s High Performance Vehicle Operations have been put on hold.

Solidly Built and Drives Well

The Cruze is low on breakthrough technologies, but it is a thoroughly well-engineered car, with an ultra-strong structure and low center of gravity. GM says 65 percent of its body and structure are made from high-strength steel. The fit and finish is improved over current GM small cars’, as highlighted by the small gaps between the body panels, which require precise stamping and accurate assembly. On the road, the rigid body and the extensive sound dampening translate into less noise.

Monday, October 4, 2010

Camaro Converitible coming soon to Fargo!


2011 Camaro Convertible

The 21st century rebirth of the Chevrolet Camaro opens a new chapter when the 2011 Camaro Convertible premieres at the Los Angeles International Auto Show on Nov. 17.

The Camaro Convertible will arrive in Chevrolet showrooms in February 2011. Starting price will be $30,000, including $850 destination. (Full details will be released later this year.)

“The Convertible will make the all-new Camaro, already a smash-hit, even more desirable to a greater range of drivers,” says Chris Perry, vice president of Chevrolet Marketing.

The Convertible model will be available in the same basic model offering as the Camaro Coupe. The standard model will have a 312-hp Direct Injection V6 engine featuring 29 miles per gallon on the highway. The SS model will feature the 6.2-liter V8 engine producing 426 hp. A six-speed manual transmission will be standard, with an optional six-speed automatic.

Camaro is America’s most popular sports car, seizing leadership in U.S. sales with the coupe model that launched in spring of 2009 as a 2010 model. The right to purchase one of the first Convertibles was recently sold at the Barrett-Jackson auction for $205,000, with all proceeds donated to charity.

Both a 312-hp 3.6-liter V6 and the top-dog 6.2-liter V8 will be offered, and buyers will be able to choose either a six-speed automatic or manual regardless of engine.

Pricing will be set at $30,000 (including a $850 destination charge) to start, a significant $7,000 hike compared to the coupe.

GM is expected to release more details in the lead-up to the LA Auto Show, with the official unveiling set for November 17th.