Throwback Thursday: Classic Christmas Carey Edition

Get ready, Christmas is only a few days away! With the holiday just around the corner, we decided to add a little holiday flair to this week's Throwback Thursday post. While scouring the interwebs for some holiday cheer, we stumbled upon this great Spotify playlist by Mariah Carey to help get you in the Christmas spirit. If you are looking to liven up your office or commute, try out some of these classic holiday hits. What are some of your favorite holiday songs?     If you still have car shopping on your holiday to-do list, be sure to stop by our Texas Chevrolet dealership and take a new car for a test drive.   Happy Holidays!

Holiday Poll: Favorite Christmas Activities

The holiday season is in full swing. From houses decorated with beautiful lights to countless people filling the shops, finishing up their search for the perfect gift, it's time to get in the Christmas spirit. What is your favorite holiday activity? Cast your vote in the poll below.

If buying a new car is on your shopping list, be sure to stop by our Chevrolet dealership for a test drive!

What is your favorite holiday activity?

Decorating the Christmas tree

Wrapping presents

Playing in the snow

Shopping for presents

other

Poll Maker

Do you prefer real or fake Christmas trees?

As the holiday season rolls around, it is a debate that occurs in households across the country: "Should we get a real or fake Christmas tree?" Both have their pros and cons, and it mostly just comes down to personal preference.

Which side do you fall on? Share your answers in the comments below. Happy Holidays!

If you still need to pick up your tree, don't forget your trusty Chevy pickup!

Your Next Car: Buy or Lease?

It's the age-old question: Should I buy or lease my next new car? While both have their pros and cons, the decision is different for every customer. To help you determine which one is best for you, here's a breakdown of both options.

Leasing

• Customers can drive a more expensive car for less money.
• It allows you to drive a new vehicle every few years.
• There are no trade-in hassles at the end of the lease.

Buying

• Customers have more flexibility, which allows them to sell the car whenever you want.
• There are no unexpected mileage penalties for increased driving.
• Car expenses will be lower in the long run.
• Customers have the right to modify the car to their wants/needs

The next time you're looking for a new car, be sure to weigh all your options. If you want to take a new Chevrolet for a test drive, stop by our Texas automotive dealership today!

Flashback Friday: What Year Was It?

Happy Flashback Friday! Before you head out for the weekend, here's a little trivia question for you. Can you guess what year these events occurred in?

• Oil goes over $13.00 per barrel
• Sony introduces Betamax videotapes and Matsushita / JVC introduce VHS
• Bruce Springsteen releases his third album, "Born To Run"
• Muhammad Ali beat Joe Fraser in the "Thriller In Manila"

Share your answers in the comments below. If you're still solidifying your weekend plans, stop by our Texas Chevrolet dealership and take a test drive!

Are you going as a new Chevrolet owner for Halloween?

Happy Halloween! If you're still scrambling for a costume, we've got the perfect one for you. How about being the envy of all your friends and show up to your Halloween party in a brand new Chevy?

There's nothing cooler than showing off your new set of wheels and being a proud Chevy owner. And you can even wear this costume all year round!

Stop by our Chevrolet dealership today and take a new car for a test drive.

Feature Focus: Chevrolet EcoTec3 5.3L V8

This week's Feature Focus introduces us to the new 2014 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 and its EcoTec3 5.3L V8. If you're looking for a new, durable truck, we highly recommend looking at this Chevy pickup.

For those looking for some extra power under the hood of their truck, the EcoTec3 5.3L V8 offers proven power and dependability in Chevy's V8 truck engines. With better highway fuel economy than its competition, this engine combines tested technologies like Active Fuel Management, Direct Injection and continuously Variable Valve Timing to provide class-leading V8 fuel efficiency, with the peace of mind that comes with our reliable engine designs. No matter which EcoTec3 engine you choose, Silverado offers you a fuel-efficient and powerful option.

This amazing engine is more than enough reason to give the new Silverado a chance. Still aren't sold? Be sure to visit our Texas Automotive Dealership and take a new Chevrolet pickup for a test drive!

Driver Beware: The Most Terrifying Road in the U.S.

As Halloween approaches, many of us partake in the reading of scary ghost stories. We huddle around and listen intently as our friends tell frightening tales of haunting and mysterious encounters with the paranormal.

While many of us have heard stories of haunted houses, spooky tales of poltergeist activity aren’t just reserved for homes and abandoned buildings. After doing some online research, we uncovered countless reports of haunted roads and highways.

One of the most frightening roads we came across was Clinton Road in New Jersey. Dubbed “The Most Terrifying Road in the U.S.” by Yahoo, this road is home to many well-documented strange and eerie occurrences. From phantom wolves with piercing red eyes to scary ghost children walking along the woods, many have experienced these spooky paranormal mysteries.

Clinton Road absolutely qualifies as a terrifying and haunted roadway. Traveling along this stretch of road isn’t for the faint of heart!

While driving on this road will certainly send shivers down your spine, buying a new car shouldn’t be a frightening experience. If you’re looking for a new car, be sure to stop by our Chevrolet dealership and take a new car for a test drive today!

What Your Orange Chevrolet Says About You

The car you drive says a lot about you. But what does your car's color say about your personality? According to a recent report on iVillage.com, driving an orange car means you're an artistic, individual, complex person.

An orange Chevy is the epitome of unique. It’s one of the most interesting colors because people who normally choose orange are usually very artistic, creative and original. Not to mention they’re very individualistically charming. Owners of orange vehicles also carry a certain complexity to their personality as well.

If you think it's time for you to get a new orange vehicle, be sure to stop by our Texas Automotive dealership and take a Chevrolet for a test drive today!

Video: Malibu - The Car for the Richest Guys on Earth

If you're in the market for a new Chevy, you need something that is reliable, comfortable and affordable. Something like the new 2014 Chevrolet Malibu. The Malibu is the car for the richest guys on Earth. Those who don't jump at the sound of the opening bell, because they're trying to make the school bell. Those who make the most of their time, and their money.

Watch Chevy's latest commercial to see why those who drive the Malibu are #TrulyRich.

To take a new Chevrolet Malibu for a test drive, please visit our Angleton, TX dealership today. We're here to help you find the perfect car to fit your needs!

These Silverado concepts are ready for anything!

Chevrolet has created these two custom 2014 Silverados to demonstrate the Silverado's versatility and potential to be the ultimate survival vehicle!  Shown for the first time at the State Fair of Texas last week, the Silverado Black Ops and Volunteer Firefighter concepts were designed to showcase how perfectly the truck is suited for emergency preparedness.  

The Black Ops concept, a Crew Cab 4x4, has all the essentials for any sort of emergency, including custom-fabricated lower body armor, a lockable bed-mounted Truck Vault storage unit, solar power pack, a pair of gas masks, gloves, military First Aid Kit, folding shovel and rope.  

The Volunteer Firefighter concept, a Double Cab Z71, was built to honor the service of grassroots first responders, with input from the National Volunteer Fire Council, and features a full complement of rescue equipment.  Both of these trucks will also be on display at the 2013 SEMA show in Las Vegas.

It's undeniable that the Silverado's legendary performance, reliability, and safety make it the perfect vehicles to take on any type of disaster.  Discover the perfect Silverado to meet your needs on the Gulf Coast Chevrolet Inventory Page, or give our sales department a call at 1 (800) 830-1051!

Feature Focus: Chevrolet MyLink

For today's post, we're debuting a new concept: Feature Focus. These posts will highlight the various features found in the amazing range of Chevrolet vehicles. Hopefully they will help you learn more about these great models and assist in your car search. Our first Feature Focus showcases the Chevrolet MyLink system in the 2014 Chevrolet Equinox.

With Chevrolet MyLink Radio, it’s easy to stay connected on the road. All it takes is a touch of the steering wheel control button and then a simple voice command to access content on your Bluetooth-enabled smartphone and control a variety of functions while staying focused on the road. You can even utilize the Siri Eyes Free system to make calls, play music or find directions to your destination.

This is an amazing feature for any tech-lover looking for a new car. Be sure to experience Chevrolet MyLink yourself and take a new Chevrolet for a test drive at our Texas dealership!

Enter to Win a $50 Movie Gift Card!

Please SHARE and spread the word! There’s still time to enter our contest for a chance to win a $50 gift card to Cinemark Pearland and XD.

To enter, visit the "Enter to Win" tab at the top of our Facebook page. Make sure you've "liked" us and scroll down to fill out your information.

You can also sign up through this link: http://a.pgtb.me/LDX8rZ

Truck shopping? Check out the 2014 Sierra Texas Edition.

If you're in the market for a new truck, we recommend you take a look at the new 2014 Sierra Texas Edition. This is an absolutely awesome GMC pickup.

Some of the Sierra's great features include:

• Chrome Mirrors & Handles 
• 20” Chrome Wheels 
• Bose Speakers 
• 6” Side Assist Steps
• Trailering Package 
• Remote Start 
• 10-way Power Driver’s Seat

For more information on the Texas Edition and test drive opportunities, head over to our Angleton Dealership today!

Three Things Every Road Trip Must Have

Summer is coming to a close. But before we turn the calendar to the upcoming fall season, many of us are hitting the road for one final road trip. Whether it's with your best friend or a group of family members, the time on the road can be a big factor in determining the success of your trip.
So before you head out on the road, here are three things to make sure you bring on your next vacation.

• A Road-worthy Playlist: Whether it's for two hours or two days, a road trip will be a lot more enjoyable if you have some great tunes to listen to. Here are some tried-and-true songs for the road: "Graceland," by Paul Simon, "Still Haven't Found What I'm Looking For," by U2, "Take it Easy," by the Eagles, and an all-time classic, "On the Road Again," by Willie Nelson.
• Snacks and Food: It's a given for any road trip. At some point, the hungry roar of your stomach bellows through the car. Avoid the hunger blues by bringing a good supply of snacks. Our favorites are fruit, granola bars, crackers and juice packs.
• A Good Camera: What good is a vacation if you don't have a camera handy to capture all those precious memories? Be sure to pack your favorite camera so you can take great photos of your most adventurous and exciting vacations.

If you plan ahead and pack accordingly, every vacation can be a pleasant and enjoyable experience for everyone. Along with these essentials, it's also important to make sure your car is in great shape. Before heading out on your next adventure, be sure to schedule a service appointment at our Chevrolet dealership.

Happy Travels!

Not Driving an Equinox Can be Ruff

If you're a dog owner, you know that having Fido travel with you in the car can be an adventure. To make sure your dog enjoys the car trip as much as you do, here are two reasons why the Chevrolet Equinox is your K-9's vehicle of choice.

• Attractive Aerodynamics: The flowing lines and sculpted contours are pleasing to the eye and help to offer an impressive EPA-estimated 22 MPG city/32 highway. With news like that, Fido will proudly stick his head out of this Chevy.
• Cruise in Comfort: Whether you have a Great Dane or a Chihuahua, the convenient Multi-Flex Sliding Rear Seat features a 60/40 split-fold design, so finding a comfortable spot for any size dog is easy.

So the next time you're looking to upgrade your car, truck or SUV, remember to check out this Chevy. But be careful, with its impressive style, handling and interior, the Chevrolet Equinox might just become your dog's best friend.

To learn more about the Equinox, head over to Gulf Coast Chevrolet and take one for a test drive!

Three Ways the Traverse Could Have Helped the Griswold's Vacation

Clark Griswold would've enjoyed traveling in the '14 Traverse.

Road trips are an essential part of the summer vacation experience. Every year, families across the country hit the road in search of their next great adventure, just like the famous movie family, the Griswold's.

While everyone plans on their vacations being fun and relaxing, if you're not careful, your vacation could end up in disaster. But sometimes all it takes is a perfect vehicle like the 2014 Chevrolet Traverse to make your trip a success. This got us thinking... How could the Traverse have saved the Griswold's road trip?

After some careful deliberation, here are three reasons how this mid-size Chevy SUV could have helped the Griswold's have a better family vacation.

• Plenty of room to go around: The Traverse has seating for 8, more than enough comfortable leg room to give Rusty and Audrey their space to enjoy the ride.
• Everything must go: It's important to pack everything you'd need for a successful road trip. This Chevy has 116.3 cubic feet of cargo space, so nothing has to be left behind. Much to Clark's satisfaction.
• In-Car Entertainment: "Are we there yet?" It's the question that sends shivers down the spine of every road trip driver. With Chevrolet MyLink technology, USB ports and Pandora internet radio, that question will be put to bed.

With the Chevy Traverse, the Griswold's vacation could have been a whole lot more enjoyable. Avoid your own road trip horror story and make sure the Traverse is your vehicle of choice the next time your family heads out for summer vacation.

If you're looking for a new Chevy, visit our local Chevrolet dealership website and stop by for a test drive!

Throwback Thursday: Vintage Chevy Edition

It's time for us to take a look back at the awesome Chevrolet history. For this week's Throwback Thursday, we're going back to the magical time of Rubix Cubes, ALF and Member's Only Jackets.

Feast your eyes on this custom 1982 Chevrolet Camaro. Would you drive this Chevy around town?

If this post has you excited to take a new Camaro for a test drive, visit our Chevrolet dealership website to see what models we have available!

Survive the Zombie Apocalypse with a Chevy Camaro

This summer, we watched Brad Pitt fight zombies in the movie blockbuster, World War Z. As we watched Pitt drive through the devastated cities, we got to thinking… How could the Chevrolet Camaro help you survive the zombie apocalypse? After some careful thought and deliberation, here are our top three reasons to add the Chevy sports car to your zombie survival guide:

1. EPA-Estimated 30 MPG – It won’t be long before gas becomes a scarce commodity, so a car that gets plenty of miles per gallon is a must.
2. 426 Horsepower – You’ll need to get somewhere safe as soon as possible, and the Camaro has plenty of power to get you there.
3. Remote Start – Time is precious, especially if you’re being chased by a pack of zombies. Starting your car and unlocking the doors remotely could be a life saver, literally.

If you don’t have a Camaro yet, visit Gulf Coast Chevrolet's website and stop by to take one for a test drive!

The Impala is Your Perfect Wingman

First dates can be nerve-racking. Your stomach fills with butterflies as you make sure everything is perfect. If you drive a Chevrolet Impala, don’t worry, you’re already ahead of the game. Here are three ways your Impala can help your date night go off without a hitch:

1. Ventilated Front Seats – Avoid giving her the cold shoulder and make sure her seat is nice and comfy.
2. Chevrolet MyLink – Set the mood with a romantic playlist from Pandora and make sure you stay on course with the navigation system.
3. Plenty of Storage – No one likes a cluttered car. There’s smart storage in the door panels and armrest, as well as umbrella storage in the front doors, and integrated cup holders and phone storage in the console.

If you don’t have an Impala yet, be sure to visit Gulf Coast Chevrolet's website to see what models we have in stock and take one for a test drive!

2014 Camaro Concept is new Bumblebee, Transformers 4 onslaught continues

Considering that A) we've already seen quite a number of Transformers 4 cars debuted on Michael Bay's website, and B) we were all really just waiting for the next Bumblebee, it seems fair to say that our gallery of T4 vehicles may now be complete.

Finishing strong, this latest addition is a car Bay is called Bumblebee 2014 Camaro Concept, and it shows a modern counterpoint for the throwback Bumblebee we've already gotten a look at.

The 2014 Camaro has been seriously reimagined for its upcoming film role, but we wouldn't put too much stock in this showing the way forward for a production car at this point. The renderings you see here have some pretty imaginative details, like a fuel filler just in front of the B-pillar (like a mid-engined car), but we sense more fantasy than premonition. Still, the black and yellow Chevrolet should look great wrought large on the silver screen.

Courtesy of Autoblog.com

Chevy Silverado 4.3-liter EcoTec3 V6 nets 18 mpg city, 24 highway

There is no doubting that fuel economy has become an important factor in the highly competitive fullsize truck market. The General has just announced that the new base V6 used in the 2014 Chevrolet Silverado models will return an EPA-estimated 18 mpg city and 24 mpg highway in two-wheel drive trim, regardless of cab configuration.

This all-new engine produces 285 horsepower and 305 pound-feet of torque, and it gives the 2014 Silverado the highest towing rating among standard V6 models with a 7,200-pound towing capacity.

Courtesy of Autoblog.com

2014 Chevrolet Malibu is Roomier, More Efficient

Chevrolet recently unveiled the 2014 Malibu – a roomier, more refined and more efficient execution of its midsize sedan. Updated styling, a revised interior, a new 2.5L standard engine and suspension enhancements highlight the changes. It goes on sale this fall.

“The 2014 Chevrolet Malibu builds on the strengths established by the all-new 2013 Malibu to make it a stronger choice for customers,” said Mark Reuss, president, General Motors North America. “The midsize sedan segment is the most contested in the industry and we’re not sitting still with the 2014 Chevrolet Malibu.”

The new and enhanced features include:

• Revised front-end appearance
• Roomier rear seat with 1.25 inches (31.7 mm) more knee room
• Redesigned center console
• New 2.5L engine with variable valve lift control and start/stop technology helps deliver estimated fuel economy of 23 city / 35 highway – a 5-percent improvement in city mileage and 3-percent greater highway efficiency
• Nearly 14 percent more torque from the available 2.0L turbo engine – 295 lb-ft of torque (400 Nm) – engineered for a greater feeling of power on demand
• Suspension enhancements derived from the all-new 2014 Impala engineered to contribute to a more refined driving experience
• New available Side Blind Zone Alert and Rear Cross Traffic Alert safety features

Malibu’s revised front-end appearance is influenced by the all-new Impala, creating a more cohesive look across Chevrolet’s sedan lineup. The front fascia features a new, more prominent lower grille and the hood extends down and over the leading edge of a narrower upper grille. The grille openings – with black grille texture – are wider and accented with chrome.

Inside, redesigned seats contribute to greater rear-seat space and greater comfort. The front seatbacks are shaped to improve rear-seat knee room, while new cushion sculpturing and revised cushion material allow passengers to sit deeper in the rear seats. Approximately half an inch was trimmed from the front of the rear seat cushion, for greater comfort behind passengers’ legs.

The Malibu’s redesigned center console has a longer armrest designed for greater comfort, along with a pair of cup holders and dedicated storage for two cell phones.

“We made changes within 18 months, demonstrating an unprecedented commitment to make the Malibu the best car it can be,” said Ken Kelzer, executive chief engineer, global full-size and midsize cars. “The 2014 Malibu has been engineered to deliver more precise ride and handling that is on par with more expensive sports sedans.”

More efficient, powerful powertrains
An all-new Ecotec 2.5L Intake Valve Lift Control DOHC four-cylinder engine with direct injection is the 2014 Malibu’s standard engine. Its variable intake valve actuation enhances efficiency and helps lower emissions, while also enhancing low-rpm torque, for a greater feeling of power at lower speeds. When the iVLC system operates in low-lift mode, the engine pumps only the air it needs to meet the driver’s demand. The system switches to high-lift mode at higher speeds or under heavy loads, providing the full output capability of the engine.

New start/stop technology shuts down the 2.5L engine to save fuel when the Malibu stops momentarily, such as at stoplights, contributing to an estimated 5-percent increase in city fuel economy. The engine automatically starts again when the driver takes his or her foot off the brake. An auxiliary battery powers electric accessories such as the climate system, power windows and radio during engine restarts.

The new 2.5L is SAE-certified at 196 horsepower (145 kW) and 186 lb-ft of torque (253 Nm). Revised transmission shift points and quicker shifts also enhance the feeling of performance – while delivering greater refinement.

Additionally, the 2014 Malibu’s available 2.0L turbo engine delivers nearly 14 percent more torque than its predecessor. It is SAE-certified at 295 lb-ft (400 Nm). New engine calibration and tuning account for the improvement, making the Malibu 2.0L turbo’s torque the best in the segment, even among competing six-cylinder-engines. The result is a stronger feeling of acceleration from a stop and a greater feeling of power on demand in almost all driving conditions.

The 2.0L turbo also produces an SAE-certified 259 horsepower (193 kW). The Malibu ECO remains in the lineup and receives the exterior and interior upgrades as well as chassis and suspension updates.

Chassis refinements
Chassis and suspension updates inspired by the all-new 2014 Impala also contribute to the 2014 Malibu’s more refined driving experience, including rebound springs that are internal to the struts. They enable more refined calibration of the dampers for a smoother overall ride, while also improving body roll control and weight transfer during acceleration or turning. That helps keep the wheels planted, contributing to a more precise, controlled feel – especially while cornering.

Fuel-saving electric power rack-and-pinion variable-effort power steering is standard and enables nearly effortless low-speed maneuvers and a higher degree of steering feel at higher speeds. Revised, higher-effort calibrations for 2014 were engineered to improve the overall steering feel. Also, the Malibu’s brake system has been revised to provide a more confident feel.

Additional chassis control technologies include four-channel anti-lock brakes, full-function traction control, four-corner electronic stability control, electronic brake force distribution, brake assist system, corner brake control, hydraulic brake fade assist and drag torque control.

Enhanced safety
New Side Blind Zone Alert and Rear Cross Traffic Alert safety features are offered, and the Malibu also comes with 10 standard air bags and an available rearview camera system.

Courtesy of media.gm.com

GM to offer 2 years free maintenance on most 2014 models

General Motors is offering most of its 2014 lineup with free maintenance. Since 2011, Cadillac models have all come with a four-year/50,000-mile complimentary maintenance program, but Chevrolet, Buick and GMC vehicles will now come standard with free maintenance for two years or 24,000 miles for the 2014 model year.

The program will give vehicle owners and lessees free oil changes, tire rotations and 27-point inspections following the recommended maintenance schedule laid out in each vehicle's owner's manual. We contacted GM to see which vehicles were eligible for the program, and a spokesperson got back to us with the following comment:

"All 2014 models are eligible, it's just that the included services vary by model, e.g., Spark EV would not need oil changes, Corvettes don't recommend tire rotations."

Even better, this plan applies to 2014 model year vehicles already purchased or leased, and it is fully transferable if the car is sold.

Courtesy of Autoblog.com

C7 Corvette join cast of Transformers 4

Like the Fast & Furious franchise, the Michael Bay-directed series of Transformers movies has become known as much for its bad acting as its impressive lineup of cars. As filming just started for Transformers 4, Bay's website has confirmed two new cars for the next installment as well as a makeover for everyone's favorite tractor trailer hero, Optimus Prime.

Joining the cast of T4 is a "race-inspired" Chevrolet Corvette Stingray. Speaking of the good guys, top Autobot Optimus Prime is getting an all-new body based on a Western Star with a gaudy appearance that was seemingly inspired by Trick My Truck – right down to the six smoke stacks and side pipes!

Courtesy of Autoblog.com

Chevrolet Enters Small Cargo Van Segment

Chevrolet announced today that it will enter the small cargo van segment with the City Express to meet the demands of customers in an emerging commercial vehicle segment.

The 2015 City Express, Chevrolet’s first entry into the small van segment in the U.S. and Canada, joins the full-size Express van as part of the Chevrolet lineup in the fall of 2014.

“Our fleet customers have asked us for a small cargo van, so this addition to the Chevrolet portfolio will strengthen our position as the partner of choice for all of our customers,” said Ed Peper, U.S. vice president of GM Fleet and Commercial Sales. “It’s quite common in many parts of the world to leverage available manufacturing resources to bring transportation solutions to market for our customer’s benefit. It’s just smart business!”

Chevrolet’s entry into this segment will allow business customers to purchase all of their vehicles from one manufacturer, and service them through the largest dealer network offering even more convenience for their business.

Designed for small businesses to large fleets looking for a small, fuel-efficient, cargo carrying vehicle, the City Express will be available in LS and LT trim levels.

The LS model has the following features:

• 2.0 liter DOHC 4-cylinder engine
• Continuously Variable Transmission
• 4-wheel antilock brake system
• 15-inch steel wheels with 185/60R15 tires
• Gray cloth interior with vinyl bolster wear patches
• Fold down passenger seat with seat back tray table
• Center console with storage for file folders, laptop, etc.
• Upper dashboard mounted storage bin
• 40/60 split rear cargo doors (180-degree max opening)
• 20 integrated interior reinforced cargo mounting points
• Six exterior roof rack mounting points
• Six standard air bags
• Electronic stability control.

The LT model adds the following features:

• Power heated outside mirrors
• Power door locks with auto locking feature
• Remote keyless entry
• Cruise control with steering wheel mounted controls.

The City Express offers 122.7 cubic feet of space, along with various packages adding functionality and efficiency for the commercial customer.

• Upfit ready with weld nuts for attaching bins
• D-Rings affixed on the floor to allow securing of cargo from side to side and front to back
• Floor cover for entire cargo area to protect the vehicle and cargo
• Standard dual sliding doors to allow easy access to cargo from either side of the vehicle
• Flexible window options to meet the needs of business customers including window configurations for sliding doors
• Standard full–size spare tire
• Two different wheels with three different appearances
• Spotter side mirrors for wider angle vision
• Technology package with navigation radio, steering wheel audio controls, USB input, rear view camera, XM Radio and Bluetooth
• Appearance package with body color bumpers, mirrors, door handles and chrome grill with black accents

The 2. 0-liter 16-valve DOHC 4-cylinder engine is rated at 131 horsepower and 139 lb-ft of torque. The engine is preliminarily matched with a responsive and efficient CVT transmission.
The City Express will qualify for Chevrolet’s Business Choice program.

Courtesy of media.gm.com

2014 Chevrolet Silverado

No one's underestimating the importance of the all-new 2014 Chevrolet Silverado. The GMT900 platform that's rolling along under the 2013 model has been underpinning fullsize GM trucks since 2007, and while the Silverado has stayed competitive through most of the intervening six years, the past two haven't been kind to the machine.

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

The half-ton pickup now wears the bold, vertical face of its heavy duty predecessors, complete with an all-aluminum hood boasting a set of twin power domes that stretch from cowl to grille. As a result, the Silverado looks considerably less pokey than the previous truck from head-on. Throw in those handsome projector headlamps and the black two-tier grille of our Z71 tester and the new model looks both clean and modern without turning its back on the nameplate's history.

The 2014 Silverado is now 0.4 inches wider than before, and that small nudge in track helps give the machine a more planted look. Designers took advantage of the added width by slathering the sides with massive, exaggerated fender swells. The squared-off wheel arches of the previous generation have stuck around, but the look makes sense paired with this more angular design. The inset doors help give the truck a more modern, clean appearance from the side, while smaller Z71 badges show Chevy is capable of demonstrating some restraint when it comes time to apply stickers.

While base models ride on attractive 18-inch polished aluminum wheels, our tester came saddled with hefty 20-inch chrome rollers. The Z71 trim affords buyers Goodyear Wrangler all-terrain tires, no matter the wheel size. The rubber lands more on the civilized side of the all-terrain spectrum, but makes sense for a truck that will likely spend the majority of its time on paved surfaces or light gravel roads.

Move to the rear and the Silverado shows off a massive Bowtie badge as well as a standard corner step bumper in LTZ guise. The bumper offers a foothold for climbing into the bed, and engineers reworked both rear stake pockets to accommodate a gloved hand for an easier, more secure way to get to cargo. More importantly, the tailgate now features a torsion spring that cuts the effort of closing it by half. Opening the tailgate is as simple as unlatching the lock and letting it drop. The spring gently lets the whole contraption down and into the open position without any help. We owe whoever came up with that one many, many beers. The design is brilliant.

But it's indoors where the 2014 Silverado really differentiates itself from its ancestors. Here, designers finally gave the truck some much-needed attention. The dash is both more attractive and better thought out than before thanks to a simple-to-use center stack. Buttons and dials have been kept to a minimum, and those present are easy to locate and read at a glance. All of the controls have been moved higher up on the dash than before, and those that are set low are still within arm's reach without having to lean forward or take your eyes from the road. We love the big piano key toggles for traction control, cargo lighting, lane departure and the like.

But the driver gets a more substantial steering wheel with new redundant controls, and the redesigned gauge cluster is both good-looking and easy to read. The big, clear TFT screen mounted between the tachometer and the speedometer delivers a spate of vehicle information, from fuel economy and trip readings to the status of the engine's cylinder deactivation.

Speaking of cylinder deactivation, GM threw every efficiency trick in the book at the new EcoTec3 engine family. In addition to active fuel management, which can drop from V8 to V4 power to save fuel, the engine now boasts a direct-injection fuel system and variable valve timing for the first time. As a result, this is the smartest 5.3-liter V8 to ever find its way under the hood of a Silverado. With 355 horsepower and 383 pound-feet of torque, the engine delivers 40 more horsepower and 48 more pound-feet while returning 16 miles per gallon city and 22 mpg highway. That's an increase of 1 mpg in both categories over the comparable 2013 model.

On the road, the 2014 model is a few millennia ahead of its predecessor. The cabin is phenomenally quiet thanks to a cornucopia of tricks. The frame is both lighter and stiffer than before. Crew and Double Cab models boast both sheer and hydraulic body mounts to banish solid axle freeway hop. Acoustic fender liners keep tire noise at bay while triple door seals make wind noise an unpleasant memory from this truck's past. Throw in spray-in sound deadening along the firewall and transmission tunnel, and this is the quietest truck on the road, hands down. There are luxury SUVs with worse noise, vibration and harshness characteristics.

Unladen, the 5.3-liter V8 delivers excellent power, hustling the truck to 60 miles per hour quicker than should be feasible. Shifts from that old six-speed are solid and well sorted, but the Silverado offers a more pleasant surprise in the brake system. While the 2014 model technically uses the same size stoppers as before, the entire system has been recalibrated. As a result, the pedal feels more confident with positive bite and excellent response. Considering the previous generation had all the stopping prowess of a hog on ice, the change is more than welcome. The rotors now use GM's Duralife coating, which helps keep rust at bay and significantly increases rotor life in the process.

GM has also done an excellent job of implementing an electronic power steering system on the 2014 Silverado.

Throw 5,000 pounds worth of empty horse trailer behind the Silverado and you'll never know it's there. Chevrolet says that depending on configuration, the 2014 Silverado will be able to tow up to 11,500 pounds safely, and engineers worked to make the truck more stable while doing so (for the record, as optioned, our tester could only tow a maximum of 9,600 pounds). While the marginally wider track is part of that recipe, so are new wheels and higher specification tires with stiffer sidewalls to reduce squirm and wander under a load. Of course, a number on a page hardly tells the whole story. Like most tow ratings, the closer you get to the ceiling, the harder the truck has to work. We put 8,600 pounds of trailer and skid steer behind the new Silverado, and while the truck could confidently pull the load about, we'd think twice about knocking on that 11,500 number's door.

GM has done an impressive job with the 2014 Silverado, building the truck back into the contender it once was. The remarkably refined driving dynamics and quiet cabin are enough to earn it a special place in our hearts.

Courtesy of autoblog.com

Chevrolet's Texas-only pickup truck

Chevy is not messing around when it comes to Texas.

The automaker has announced it will yet again be offering a Texas Edition of its upcoming 2014 Silverado pickup truck that will be sold only in The Lone Star State.

Available on LT or LTZ trim level Silverados, the special edition adds unique “Texas Edition” badges, 20-inch wheels, trailering equipment and a locking rear differential. LTZs also get a top shelf Bose audio system and chrome mirror caps and door handles.

LTs can be ordered with either a 285 hp 4.3-liter V6 or 355 hp 5.3-liter V8, while LTZs come standard with the bigger engine.

Chevrolet says it sells one out of every six of its pickup trucks in Texas, and the special edition is a tip of the hat to its loyal market. It’s offered the unique package on Silverado 1500s and Heavy Duty trucks in recent years.

But don’t be looking for any “Land of Enchantment” or “Garden State” Silverados soon. The Texas Edition is a state specific one-off for now, but a nearly identical Custom Sport model will be sold in the other 49 states, just without the fancy badges.

Courtesy of FoxNews.com

With Summer Coming Up Fast, Will You Be Taking a Road Trip This Year?

The temperatures are rising and summer is coming up fast. Will you be taking a road trip this year? Where and with whom? Let us know!

Hot Wheels Camaro to make big debut at Indy

Chevrolet handed over the keys to 33 Hot Wheels Camaro Convertible Indianapolis 500 festival cars this week. Race directors get the luxury of driving the droptops around Indianapolis in an ongoing tradition with roots all the way back to the 1960s. The stunt is supposed to remind area residents that the Indy 500 is right around the corner. The cars are our first look at the special Camaro Hot Wheels Edition in convertible form, and they are slated to head to dealers after a one-time production run. The cars also represent the first time in history full-size Hot Wheels have been offered for sale by an automaker.

The cars will be available in both the previously seen coupe bodystyle and this convertible configuration, and will feature metallic blue paint and special wheels with the iconic redline accent. Buyers will be able to choose between the V6-powered 2LT trim and the V8-powered 2SS guise.

Hot Wheels says the original Custom Camaro toy was one of the original 16 1:64-scale diecasts, and it remains one of the company's most valuable collector items today.

Courtesy of Autoblog.com

2014 Chevy Impala production commences

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

The full-size Impala will come to market with an engine lineup that includes a 2.5-liter four-cylinder, a 2.4-liter four with the company's eAssist mild hybrid technology, and the 3.6-liter V6 that we sampled a few weeks ago. Sadly for the trivia buffs among us, Chevy didn't provide any specification information or other facts about the first-ever 2014 Impala.

Courtesy of Autoblog.com

2014 Chevy Camaro SS teased

Chevrolet has pulled the covers back ever so slightly on the 2014 Camaro SS, which is scheduled to debut at the upcoming New York Auto Show on Wednesday, March 27. As pointed out by GM in their brief press release, this is the first meaningful update to the fifth-generation Camaro, minus all the more recent model variants, naturally.

We're not expecting a bevy of exterior modifications – regardless of what you think of its performance, the fact that it's been "the most popular sports car in America for three consecutive years" proves people like what they see – but we can spot a nip here and a tuck there. For instance, there's chrome trim highlighting the fascia, and the grille has been restyled with a cleaner look. We're curious to see the rest of the car, especially what's just out of frame in this teaser, like the air intake seen on the current car.

We're also hoping for powertrain updates, including the addition of the LS7 engine, along with an improved interior.

Courtesy of Autoblog.com

2014 Chevrolet Impala

Chevrolet is getting ready to roll out an all-new Impala with improved comfort, styling and technology, hoping to turn the tables on its retail-to-fleet ratio. We headed to sunny San Diego to see if this totally new Impala can stand on its own without the assistance of fleet companies and rental agencies.

Although the new-look Impala hasn't won over the entire Autoblog crew just yet, it's an undeniable improvement over the past two generations of the big sedan. As safe as Chevy played its hand with its recent Malibu redesign, we are pleased to see that the Impala has received a completely modern wardrobe. The car we drove was the mid-level LT trim, which Chevy expects to be the volume seller, so while we missed out on trendy add-ons like LED daytime running lights and the integrated exhaust outlets from the top LTZ trim, there was still plenty to appreciate about its design.

The broad grille and narrow headlights were purposefully designed like that to give a wider appearance, while the sculpted hood adds an athletic shape. 20-inch wheels are available on the LTZ, but the 19s that came on our LT definitely seemed to fit the overall look of the new Impala. One element carried over from recent Impala designs is a lower beltline that rises sharply behind the rear door to create an arrow-shaped quarter window.

At some angles (especially in profile), Chevy's efforts to maximize aerodynamics and interior volume has resulted in some odd proportions and a massive rear overhang, but in a class full of competitors that have only recently started to push the limits of design, the new Impala has a great look to it. One minor disappointment is the lack of available LED taillights that would have added some style in the rear, but the Impala's rump is far from bland with a short, shapely decklid and our tester's optional rear spoiler. Chevrolet paid close attention to the details, including the use of brushed aluminum trim around the windows and small Chevy Bowtie emblems etched into the headlight. One could even argue that the arched rear fenders are somewhat reminiscent of the original 1958 Impala.

GM's design team hit a home run inside the new Impala, seemingly focusing on correcting the shortfalls present in the Malibu by creating a nearly flawless cabin. Buyers looking for a bench-seat Impala will be the only people who are disappointed by this interior. Chevy's dual-brow instrument panel is definitely the focal point of the interior, which in LT form adds stitched leather accents to the gauge hood and along the top edge of the dash. Chrome accents provide some added dimension to the dash, which can be equipped with blue backlit ambient lighting that is invisible during the day provides soft, subtle lighting at night. The shape of the instrument panel's chrome strip was mimicked on the new four-spoke steering wheel, which has a refreshingly small number of buttons on the front of it by adding the audio controls to the backside of the wheel. It will be interesting to see what the Impala's base interior looks like – our Impala LT tester was blessed with with dark leather on the seats with suede inserts.

More than just a stylish environment, the new Impala provides plenty of space for five occupants. Compared to the departing model, the 2014 Impala has had its headroom and legroom stretched by a remarkable 3.5 inches and 2.2 inches, respectively. Including a GM representative, our tester spent the entire day with three occupants, which provided plenty of rear-seat time. At over six feet tall, your author had no problem with legroom and was even able to sit cross legged.

In terms of interior technology, the highlight is Chevy's next-generation MyLink system. The new MyLink provides new ways to connect and customize while doing away with many of the capacitive touch issues that plagues the Cadillac interface. For starters, there are 10 hard buttons and knobs that act as redundant controls. Chevy has also added features like 3D mapping, Bluetooth pairing for up to 10 devices, better voice recognition with natural speech commands, four different background/button themes and a configurable home screen with five customizable top buttons and up to 60 "favorite" buttons (for phone numbers, navigation destinations and audio settings such as stations, artists, albums or genres). The coolest feature might be the new valet mode that uses a four-digit code to lock out the vehicle's MyLink and information systems. The large center screen (which has a storage cubby beneath) is complemented by a 4.2-inch digital screen inside the gauge cluster. The latter is controlled by a five-way button on the right side of the steering wheel, and it displays infotainment and vehicle information to the driver in a clear and easy manner.

The new Impala also has three USB ports, an SD card slot and, in the "What took so long to figure this out?" category, the navigation operations and Bluetooth pairing can take place while driving when there is a passenger in place – with the assumption that drivers will not be doing the work. There are still some sluggishness issues with the latest MyLink, as well as the fact that some of the screen colors are not easily seen on various backgrounds, but GM promises a fix for the latter before the car goes on sale.

Eventually, the 2014 Impala will offer a base 2.5-liter inline four-cylinder engine as well as a 2.4-liter eAssist mild hybrid model, but for this test, we drove the car with the engine that customers will see first, the 3.6-liter V6. This direct-injected engine is the essentially the only part carried-over from the 2013 Impala, but its output has been tweaked ever so slightly, raising horsepower and torque to 305 hp and 264 pound-feet (up from 300 hp and 262 lb-ft.). Unlike the closely related XTS, the Impala will not offer all-wheel drive. Instead, the front wheels are powered through a six-speed automatic transmission. Weighing in at 3,800 pounds, the Impala V6 should have a good balance of fuel economy (with estimates of 19 miles per gallon in the city and 29 mpg on the highway) and acceleration, which GM claims will take just 6.8 seconds to reach 60 miles per hour.

Before we even had a chance to bring the engine to life, the solid "thud" of the closing door also brought with it a calming silence inside the Impala, even as big trucks and city traffic whizzed by. GM proudly explained the Impala's quiet interior, calling out its additional door seals, acoustically treated front and side windows and the strategic placement of sound deadening, but on the road, it was just plain impressive how library quiet the interior is regardless of vehicle speed or road conditions. Models equipped with the four-cylinder engine will also get Active Noise Cancellation technology, so they'll have a shot at being serene, too. Another noticeable enhancement was the Impala's taut body structure. Driving along some bumpy roads and crossing transitions in downtown San Diego, very little noise or vibration made it inside.

Once outside the city, our driving route provided a good mix of twisty roads and wide-open Interstate driving, and while the Impala is no canyon carver, it was at least up to the task of allowing us to have a little fun. Despite its size, acceleration proved ample at just about any speed, and braking was impressive thanks to big, GM-patented rotors that are resistant to rust and warping (they're expected to last twice as long as current GM rotors). At slower speeds, we did notice that the electric power steering felt a little jerky, but it smoothed out to become fairly responsive at highway speeds. Even driver visibility was better than what we've come to expect from some of today's full-size sedans. Just in case, however, the 2014 Impala offers options including forward collision warning, rear cross traffic, lane departure warning and blind spot detection. We did have a chance to drive another car with the available adaptive cruise control, which is easily identifiable by unique front grille that integrates a massive black insert with a sensor that allows the car to automatically brake all the way down to a full stop.

When the 2014 Impala goes on sale next month, sales will likely take a substantial dive from the fleet-heavy numbers of recent years, but GM will at least be replacing volume with quality. If you're a rental car agency or a fleet manager for your company, though, don't fret. GM isn't going to cut you off cold-turkey. The outgoing generation of Impala will live on for another year as the Impala Limited (a move Chevrolet has done in the past with the Malibu and Silverado), but its eventual departure will mark the end of the road for GM's W Body, a platform that dates back to the late 1980s.

It isn't clear which (if any) vehicle will replace the Impala for fleet customers in 2015, but along with the performance-oriented SS sedan and a sooner-than-expected refresh for the Malibu, the all-new Impala could very well give Chevrolet its strongest, most competitive retail sedan lineup ever. 

Courtesy of Autoblog.com

Spring Maintenance Tip

Check Air Filter:
The air filter is one of the unsung heroes of a vehicle, as it protects the engine from airborne contaminants. Poor air flow within the engine hinders performance and can lead to greater fuel consumption. Replacing a dirty air filter allows clean, unrestricted air flow into the engine and helps ensure proper performance and longer life.

*Courtesy of CBS

Service specials!

Everyone loves a good service special! We have some great ones on our website! Check them out!

The Buick Verano is one beautiful car, inside and out

2014 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray convertible headed for Geneva debut

While most of the world is still coming down from all the hype surrounding the debut of the 2014 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray at the Detroit Auto Show earlier this month, we're already looking to the future. And according to Autoweek, the next chapter in the C7 story will unfold at the Geneva Motor Show in March. That's right, General Motors is reportedly using the Swiss stage as its venue to debut the Corvette Stingray convertible.

If this strikes you as odd, you aren't alone. After all, with a car that's such an American icon, we'd fully expect Chevrolet to unveil it here on our shores in either Chicago or New York. But according to Autoweek, GM is looking to boost export sales of its halo car, and since the C7 was engineered to compete with the world's best and brightest, showing it off in Geneva is somewhat of a smart move. What's more, those with sharp memories will recall that GM used the Geneva expo to debut the sixth-generation C6 Corvette convertible back in March 2004, so there's also a precedent.

Details surrounding the Corvette Stingray convertible are still slim, though we fully expect the 6.2-liter V8 and choice of either six-speed automatic or seven-speed manual transmissions to carry over unchanged. Prototypes spotted on the road showed the car fitted with a cloth convertible roof, as well.

The C7 Corvette Stingray coupe is expected to go into production in August, and Autoweek estimates production of the convertible to follow about three months later. The Geneva Motor Show kicks off on March 5, 2013, so stay tuned to this space for more information closer to that time.

*Courtesy of AutoBlog

Don't Forget to Flush

Coolant-antifreeze eventually degrades and becomes contaminated. Flush it from your cooling system as recommended in your manual (typically every two years; every five years for newer coolants). Failing to do so can damage your radiator, clog your heater core, and cause the thermostat and water pump to fail.

*Courtesy of Reader's Digest 

A great review!

"Everyone involved in the purchase of my car was friendly and professional."-Sequoia B.

First 2014 Corvette Stingray Offered at Barrett-Jackson

Chevrolet will offer the first retail production model of the 2014 Corvette Stingray – with the Vehicle Identification Number ending in 0001 – at the Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale collector car auction this weekend. Proceeds will benefit the College for Creative Studies in Detroit, renowned for its automotive design program.

“The new Stingray features a modern, dramatic design that will inspire a new generation of Corvette enthusiasts,” said Ed Welburn, GM vice president of global design. “With the proceeds of the new Stingray going to the CCS, the new Corvette will also help cultivate the next generation of designers who may work on modern, dramatic Chevrolets in the future. In fact more than 170 CCS alumni already work in the GM Design studios.”

The sale is scheduled for Saturday evening, Jan. 19. Bids can be submitted in person at the auction or online at www.barrett-jackson.com.

The College for Creative Studies is regarded among the world’s premier institutions for industrial and transportation design. CCS’s enrolls more than 1,400 students pursuing undergraduate degrees in 12 majors or graduate degrees in Design and Transportation design.

Founded in 1906 as the Detroit Society of Arts and Crafts, CCS grew into an arts education organization. In 1933, the Society attracted national attention as one of the first art institutions to recognize the automobile as an art form. It has since been inextricably linked to its home city’s signature industry.

Along with the 2014 Corvette Stingray, four other unique Chevys will cross the block at Barrett-Jackson’s sale, including:

• General Motors’ CEO Dan Akerson’s 1958 Corvette, with proceeds to benefit Habitat for Humanity’s initiative to improve Detroit’s Morningside Commons neighborhood. The Regal Turquoise roadster is powered by a 245-horsepower small-block V-8. It is scheduled to cross the block on the evening of Friday, Jan. 18.
• 2012 COPO Camaro convertible, with proceeds to benefit the American Heart Association. It is car number 69 of the 69 COPO Camaro factory drag-race cars built for 2012 and one of only two convertibles built – and it is the only COPO Camaro painted Inferno Orange Metallic. Its sale is scheduled for the afternoon of Saturday, Jan. 19.
• Guy Fieri’s personalized 2013 Corvette 427 Convertible Collector Edition, with proceeds to benefit the Guy Fieri Foundation for Inspiration and Imagination. Powered by a 505-hp LS7 engine, Fieri’s 427 Convertible is black with custom yellow stripes – a twist on the trademark yellow-and-black color scheme of his other Chevys. The car also features embroidered seat headrests and fender badges that call out his foundation. It is scheduled to cross the block on the evening of Thursday, Jan. 17.  
• 2013 Camaro ZL1 Convertible – the new open-air version is powered by a supercharged 6.2L LSA small-block rated at 580 horsepower. One-hundred percent of the winning bid will benefit Achilles International, which enables people with disabilities to participate in mainstream athletics. Its sale is scheduled for Sunday, Jan. 20.

The auctions for all five Chevrolets are scheduled to be carried live on SPEED’s coverage of the Barrett-Jackson auction. The weeklong auction runs through Sunday, Jan. 20.

*Courtesy of Chevy News 

With a total of 13 million miles of testing put into it, you know it's going to be good. Check out the 2014 Silverado!

Preserve door and window seals

Wipe a rubber protectant (such as Armor-All) or silicone on door and window weatherstripping to keep it in good condition. Don’t use an oilbased product, such as WD-40, because the oil will damage the rubber. Regular cleaning and treatment of your car’s weatherstripping will also lessen the likelihood of your door sticking to its rubber seal in cold weather, a common cause of damage to the rubber.

*Courtesy of Reader's Digest

Chevy Keeps the Music Playing! Watch how Chevy is supporting Nashville Music Students!

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