General Motors’ CEO Fritz Henderson has revealed that the Chevy Camaro Convertible is scheduled to arrive in 2011, as a 2012 model. Henderson revealed the information during an online Q&A session on the FastLane blog. He also revealed that the company will not roll out a sedan Camaro. To read the full transcript of the session, please click here.
2010 Chevrolet Agile: Engine details and high-res image gallery!
General Motors has released new high-res images as well as more details of the Chevrolet Agile that will be exclusively offered for the South American market. In Brazil, the Agile will be sold in two trim levels including LT and LTZ while buyers in Argentina can choose between the LS, LT and LTZ. It has a 1.4 liter Econoflex powerplant fitted with the company’s System Zero engine management system.
The engine can output 102HP at 6,000 revs when fueled with alcohol while with gasoline, power drops to 97HP. The above mentioned System Zero technology was developed by GM Powertrain of Brazil. It utilizes “flex fuel” technology, which enables the car to be fueled with alcohol or gasoline, or with both at any mixture ratio.
The Chevrolet Agile will be offered with features such as cruise control, an on-board computer with six functions as well as adjustable driver’s seat and steering wheel. The Agile also has 27 small storage compartments including a special holder for a GPS navigation device. The Agile is underpinned by General Motor’s Viva platform and will go into production at the Rosario plant in Argentina by fall this year. Continue reading to view a high-res image gallery.
All-new Chevrolet Caprice Police Patrol Vehicle unveiled
General Motors has revealed the all-new Chevrolet Caprice Police Patrol Vehicle that will go into service in 2011. The Chevrolet Caprice underneath all that Police treatment, is based on the Holden Caprice (sold in Australia) which in turn, is the long-wheelbase and more up-market version of the Pontiac G8 or the Holden Commodore.
The new law enforcement vehicle is underpinned by General Motor’s Zeta rear wheel drive platform, that also underpins the latest Camaro. Under the hood of the Chevrolet Caprice Police Patrol Vehicle lies a 6.0 liter V8 that cranks out 355HP and 384 lb-ft of torque.
It comes with a re-tuned 6 speed automatic transmission, a high-output alternator, coolers for engine oil, transmission and power steering fluids, 18-inch steel wheels with bolt-on center caps, large disc brakes with heavy-duty brake pads, heavy-duty suspension components as well as a police-calibrated stability control system.
There is also a driver information center in the instrument cluster and it can also be equipped with features like spotlights and lockouts for the power windows and locks. Furthermore, law enforcement agencies can also opt for a street-appearance package for undercover work. The auto maker also revealed that it will introduce a V6 engine for the Chevrolet Caprice Police Patrol Vehicle by 2012. Continue reading to view a high-res images.
Chevrolet Cruze with new 125PS VCDi diesel: Attractive to the UK fleet market
Chevrolet has added a new engine option into the Cruze range in the UK. The new VCDi diesel engine, according to the auto maker, will enable fleet owners to lessen their impact on the environment while taking advantage of additional cost savings. The powerplant can output 125PS, while being able to deliver 51.4 miles to the gallon (combined) and output 145 grams of CO2 emissions per kilometer. It also delivers 61.4 and 40.4 miles to the gallon figures on the extra-urban cycle and on the urban economy, respectively.
Apart from the fuel efficiency, fleet owners can also enjoy road tax bill of £125 and benefit-in-kind tax bill of as little as £542.60 a year (company car drivers paying the basic rate of tax 20%). Furthermore, the Cruze diesel qualifies for the Capital Allowance regime which means that fleets are able to write down 20% of the car’s cost and offset 100% of the lease payments against corporation tax.
Two trim levels are offered, including an entry-level S and a range topping LS. The former comes with air conditioning, electronic stability control, a CD-radio with auxiliary input socket, front electric windows, remote central locking, a Thatcham approved alarm and electrically adjustable heated door mirrors as standard. The LS models adds electric rear windows, 16-inch alloy wheels, chrome grille surround, rear park assist, steering wheel audio controls and a leather-covered steering wheel and gear knob.
The S models is available with Chevrolet’s leasing programme at just £204.99 per month (excluding VAT), based on 36 months/30,000 miles, while the LS model goes for £14,345.
Chevy Spark-based Daewoo Matiz Creative unveiled in Korea
What you see above is the GM Daewoo Matiz Creative super mini that is based on the Chevrolet Spark. In my honest opinion, I feel that the Chevrolet version looks a lot better, thanks to a better front grille design. The Chevrolet Spark is expected to go on sale across the world starting from next month. The Spark is powered by a 1.0 liter S-TEC 4-cylinder engine that is good for 69HP and 92Nm of torque.
The engine is fitted with an automatic temperature controller that helps improve fuel efficiency by reducing unnecessary heat loss. There is also a dome-type long-skirt cylinder block that narrows the space between intake valves as well as four resonators that help reduce engine noise. The Daewoo version is offered with curtain air bags mounted on the roof rails, a 4-channel brake system (help reduce braking distance and prevent skidding and rollover), seatbelt pre-tensioners, rear parking assist sensors as well as shock-sensitive door locks.
The tiny powerplant is mated to a 4 speed automatic transmission and its fuel consumption is rated at 5.9 liters per 100 kilometers. General Motors is also expected to add a 3-cylinder turbo diesel into the line-up. Three trim levels will be introduced, including Pop, Jazz and Groove. Pricing will start from US$7,260 for the Pop and will go up to US$8,035 for the Groove version. Continue reading to view more images of the Daewoo Matiz Creative.
Official image of 2010 Chevrolet Agile released by General Motors
General Motors has released an official image of the 2010 Chevrolet Agile that will be only offered in the South American market. The Agile is underpinned by General Motor’s Viva platform and will go into production at the Rosario plant in Argentina by fall this year. The auto maker did not reveal anything regarding powertrain options, but expect the 5-door hatch to be offered with small displacement, 4-cylinder engines. From the single image, the Agile looks slightly above average in my honest opinion. The front end looks too heavy. Continue reading to view a high-res version of the image above. You can also check out some original sketches of the Agile here.
568HP performance package for the Camaro SS by GeigerCars
Automotive tuning company GeigerCars has announced a new performance package for the Camaro SS. In stock form, the SS, which is powered by a 6.2 liter V8 outputs 432HP ad 569Nm of torque, while with the package, you can bump up the figures to 568HP and to a massive 799Nm of torque (4,100 revs), thanks to a mechanical compressor. This should propel the upgraded SS to 100 km/h in less than 5.0 seconds, up to a top speed of 314 km/h.
More features include coilover suspension, adjustable anti-roll bar, sport catalysts, a stainless steel exhaust system and a two-plate sport clutch. The German tuner has also upgraded the stopping power with Brembo’s expertise. With the package, you will get 6-piston front and 4-piston rear calipers along with 380 mm and 355 mm discs. Continue reading to view a high-res image gallery.
Chevrolet Cruze announced for the Singaporean market: 45 high-res images and 3 videos!
General Motors has officially revealed the Chevrolet Cruze compact sedan for the Singaporean market. For the local market, Chevrolet offers two engine options, including a 107HP 1.6 liter engine as well as a range topping 1.8 liter, that can crank out 140HP. Both the DOHC 1.6 and 1.8 liter powerplants are fitted with auto maker’s Double Continuous Variable Cam Phasing or DCVCP. Suspension wise, the Cruze is treated to McPherson struts up front while the rear features a torsion beam axle setup.
The front wheel compact sedan, which measures 4597 mm long, 1788 mm wide and 1477 mm high with a wheelbase of 2685 mm, comes with ABS and ESP, apart from those must have airbags. The range topping 1.8 liter powerplant, which can also produce 176Nm of torque is able to sprint from naught to 100 km/h in 10 seconds and will go on till the speedometer hits 200 km/h. Potential buyers can choose between two transmission options.
First of which is the 5 speed manual while the other is the 6 speed automatic transmission, a very good offering by the auto maker. On another note, the Chevrolet Cruze is also shredding its rubber in the World Touring Car Championships, or fondly known as the WTCC. Pricing wise, the Cruze 1.6 with the manual cog box goes for S$52,388 while with the automatic tranny, price is increased to S$54,988. The 1.8 liter variant with the automatic transmission can be yours for S$68,388. Continue reading to view a high-res image gallery, as well as to watch three videos of the Cruze.
General Motors and Irmscher reveal the Chevrolet Cruze Bumblebee
General Motors has revealed the Chevrolet Cruze Bumblebee Special, which will make its first public appearance at the Frankfurt Motor Show. The Cruze Bumblebee Special is inspired by the Transformers movie, although the colour scheme is different (not yellow and black).
Along with the black and orange styling, the Cruze Bumblebee Special is lowered by 30mm and comes with a rear diffuser. It is also fitted with orange-coloured 18-inch alloy wheels shod with 225mm wide tires. The reworked Cruze was also co-developed with Irmscher, a German-based tuning firm.
However, General Motors has no plans to introduce the Cruze Bumblebee Special into the market, but Irmscher revealed that it can add the upgrades in a package form, for interested customers. Continue reading to view more images of the Chevrolet Cruze Bumblebee Special.
2010 Chevrolet Agile will hit the South American market by end of the year
US-based auto maker General Motors, has released official sketches of its upcoming 2010 Chevrolet Agile. From the sketches, we do know that the Agile would be a 5-door super mini. The 2010 Chevrolet Agile is being developed by the auto maker’s South American division, for countries from the region.
Production of the Agile will initiate by fall at General Motors’ Rosario plant in Argentina. It is then expected to hit the showrooms by end of the year. The Agile will utilize the auto maker’s new Viva platform, but we are unsure about powerplant options. However, it is safe to expect low-displacement 4-cylinder engines. We are also not sure if the Agile will be sold in other markets. Continue reading to view more sketches of the Agile.
General Motors launches the 2010 Camaro Transformers Special Edition: package costs US$995
Looks like the rumor was indeed true! Earlier, we reported that General Motors will roll out a Transformers-inspired Chevy Camaro, and months later, the auto maker, which recently emerged from bankruptcy has officially released the action figure/ comic / cartoon / movie-inspired model.
Available in a package form, it is only made up by Transformer and Autobot logos on the side panels, on the wheel center caps, on the sill plates, on the center console and as well as on the black rally stripes – that’s it?
Unfortunately, yes. The above are the only upgrades offered, as the rest are Camaro-standard. General Motors’ product marketing director revealed, “When the first Transformers movie was setting box office records, we had countless customers asking to purchase the ‘Bumblebee’ Camaro. Now, they can buy one with the new Camaro Transformers Special Edition. Streets all over North America will be buzzing in no time.”
The Transformers kit can be yours for US$995 and the kit is only valid on LT V6 and the SS V8 Camaro models, that are finished in Rally Yellow. It can be slapped on the above Camaros fitted with, or without the RS package. Even if its just styling upgrades, I am pretty sure we will see quite a few Bumblebees running around in the US. Continue reading to view an image gallery.
Chevrolet’s 3S Centre unveiled in Singapore
General Motors-owned Chevrolet has unveiled a 3S Centre in Singapore’s Ubi motor belt. The brand new centre, which will be officially launched in August 2009 is a 4-storey, 80,000 square feet full-fledged facility that specializes in Sales, Service and Spare Parts.
The new centre, which was refurbished at an investment cost of S$ 1.5 million also features a showroom with a capacity of 10 cars, as well as a 24-bay service centre. Chevrolet also mentioned that owners can also get finance and insurance support from the auto maker’s Singapore official dealer, Alpine Motors.
The 3S Centre will also house various Chevrolet accessories, as well as brand memorabilia. The auto maker also revealed that SS cars and boutique items will also be on display.
Managing Director of General Motors Overseas Distribution Corporation in Singapore, Mr Kittichai said, “The Chevrolet Centre will offer an outstanding end-to-end experience to customers, and underscores our commitment to extend Chevrolet’s presence here. Drivers can expect to be delighted with the service and range of cars available that would suit their lifestyle needs.”
Albert Pang, Managing Director of Alpine Motors also added, “We are very proud to be part of Chevrolet’s efforts to become a leading car brand in Singapore. The close collaboration we have with Chevrolet will help us deliver a holistic and satisfying Chevy-ownership experience to our customers.” Drivers can preview the new showroom and the Chevrolet cars from next week, ahead of the official opening. Chevrolet showrooms are currently located at Novena and in Bukit Timah.
General Motors to launch a limited edition Bumblebee Camaro?
Words are being exchanged that General Motors is planning to launch a limited edition Bumblebee Camaro, to help highlight the Camaro’s involvement in the upcoming Transformers flick, Revenge of the Fallen. Apparently the car will be offered with V6 and V8 powerplants, and that potential buyers can place their orders on June 1st. The Bumblebee Camaro is also rumored to debut on the assembly lines on June 24th, the same day the sequel is scheduled for its US release. To watch the latest trailer of the movie, please click here.
Golf MKVI wins the World Car Of The Year Award 2009
‘And the winner for the World car of the year 2009 award goes to the Volkswagen Golf MK6’. The Golf had been picked from the final three nominees that comprised of the Ford Fiesta and Toyota iQ. The new golf sports Scirocco grilles and headlights and has 6 engine options ranging from a turbo and supercharged 1.4TSI producing 158bhp to a 2.0 TDI.
The winner of the World Car Design of the Year went to the Fiat 500, which was competing with the Jaguar XF and the Citroen C5.
A much deserved win went to the Nissan GTR in the best performance car category. The final three included the Corvette ZR1 and Porsche 911 Carrera.
The worlds greenest car went to the Honda FCX Clarity which I believe is in a class of its own compared to the other 2 nominees which included the Toyota iQ and the Mitsubishi iMiEV. The reasoning behind this is because the FCX clarity runs on Hydrogen which is a readily available and they only emit water vapour through its exhausts.
Chevrolet Epica and Chevrolet Captiva models now offered with a diesel option
Both the Chevrolet Epica and Chevrolet Captiva SUV models are now offered with a diesel power plant. Both models now get the 2.0 liter turbocharged diesel engine which is good for 148HP and 320Nm of torque.
More importantly, this new engine is supposed to improve performance figures on both models. Compared to the Epica with a 144HP 2.0 liter petrol, sprint figure is improved by 0.9 seconds to 10.6 seconds and top speed is rated at 205 km/h with the diesel engine, instead of 195 km/h with the 2.0 petrol. In the Captiva, the 2.0 diesel is able to propel the SUV to the 100 km/h mark in 12.2 seconds compared to 12.5 seconds with the 136HP 2.4 liter petrol, and top speed is figured at 180 km/h instead of 178 km/h.
Both the Epica and Captiva models with diesel comes with a 6 speed automatic and a 5 speed automatic transmission respectively. On top of the reduction in diesel taxes in Singapore, Chevrolet is absorbing half of the diesel tax for the first three years for the diesel powered Captiva to encourage more buyers to take home diesel powered vehicles. However, no news yet regarding the similar promotion for the Epica.
The Captiva SUV with diesel carries a price tag of S$ 89,200 inclusive of COE. Pricing for the diesel powered Epica is yet to be released.
2010 Chevrolet Spark to debut in Geneva – Video!
The cute little Chevrolet Spark will make its world debut at the Geneva Motor Show and it is expected to hit European showrooms by end of the year. The production Spark, in a 5-door design measures 3,640 mm in length with a 2,375 mm wheelbase and should feature two DOHC engine choices including a 1.0 liter as well as a 1.2 liter unit which promises to deliver excellent fuel efficiency.
Continue reading to view two more images and to watch a video which showcases GM’s Design Director walking viewers around the exterior and interior design of the Spark.
The new Chevrolet Epica facelift – with a new 6 speed transmission!
General Motors has launched the refreshed version of the Chevrolet Epica for the local market. Design wise, the mid size sedan is treated to a new tail light design and a red-coloured plinth on the boot lid. There is also a S$ 2,500 upgrade to replace the front grille with a larger one, which takes more space on the front bumper.
The most significant improvement made is the introduction of a new 6 speed automatic transmission which replaces the 5 speed one that helps deliver improved fuel economy. GM also claims that the new Dexron-VI transmission fluid which was developed with Afton Chemical Corporation and Petro-Canada Lubricants used in the new gearbox does not need replacement over the car’s entire lifetime, under normal use that is.
Performance figures as well as engine options remain the same. These include a 143HP 2.0 liter power plant and a 156HP 2.5 liter unit. Prices start from S$ 70, 488 (inclusive of COE) for the 2.0 liter Chevrolet Epica.
Chevy Spark to ’sparkle’ in showrooms by 2010!
Struggling American auto maker, General Motors has announced that the Chevy Spark hot hatch will hit showrooms in Europe by the first quarter of 2010 following an official world debut at the upcoming Geneva Motor Show in March 2009.
With fresh and funky design cues employed on the Spark, the new mini car should be able to deliver 40 miles to the gallon, although details regarding technical specifications are yet to be announced by GM. The 5 door Spark you see above is based on the Beat Concept which was first previewed back in 2007 at the New York Auto Show, and unlike the 5 door structure, the Beat Concept showcased a 3 door design.
It is also unclear whether GM will produce a 3 door production version of fuel efficient 3 Chevy Spark or not. The Spark will make its way into the United States a year later in 2011.
