FIND OUT IF YOU'RE A LOUSY SERVICE GARAGE CUSTOMER

Former race car driver, Horst Kroll has likely met
a few less-than-frank clients in his Toronto car repair shop.

By Brian Turner, Driving.ca - We're all human, even those of us in the automotive retail industry, and yes, sometimes just the right burr under our saddle can cause us to blow off some steam.  So, if you see any of your behaviours in the list below, it just may be a matter of time before you cause someone to slip a wrench.

JUST-ONE-MORE-THING MERV

Merv arrives late for his 10 o'clock oil change and tire-rotation appointment and asks to have just one more thing checked on his daily driver.  An innocent counter consultant says OK, and soon Merv has a shopping list of problems that have been pestering him for months, and he now wants to get them all checked and fixed while he waits.

Few shops of any type (dealership, national chain, small independents) operate with a lot of excess capacity in their daily schedules.  They book appointments to fill their days.  Good shops are almost always busy and with the increase in technician specialization, it's common that an average repair visit will mean more than one tech works on your vehicle.

Keeping your repair concerns a secret until you arrive at the shop means either making another appointment or not getting everything looked at.

GOT-TO-BE-UNDER-WARRANTY WALLY

Wally hasn't willingly paid for a repair, adjustment, and maintenance item on his chariot for five years.  "There must be some type of coverage!" he cries as he battles the evil forces of the service counter staff.

Wally, the people who set the terms and conditions of your vehicle manufacturer's warranty aren't the people who work at the dealership level.  They can't decide what's covered and what's not, nor change the time and distance limits at whim.  If you co-operate with your service provider, you might find they will be more willing to go to bat for you if a major problem occurs.  Meanwhile, pry open your wallet, let the moths out, and pay for your wiper blades.

MUST-BE-SOMEBODY-ELSE'S-FAULT FLO

(Cousin of Warranty Wally)  She brings in a 23-year-old compact beater with an oil leak, and right off the bat claims it must be the oil filter her shop failed to put on properly six months ago.  Not to say that human beings, even techs, don't make mistakes, but really.

You'll get a lot farther by simply asking for help rather than taking an offensive position right from the start.  If you really don't trust your shop to do things right, why are you still taking your vehicle there?

FRANK AND FRANNIE FUEL ECONOMY

Fortunately for independent shops, this pair of car crows only croon their miserable caw song at dealerships.  As predictable as rising pump prices on a long-weekend Friday afternoon, this type of client can always be expected at the service counter when pump prices soar, moaning about the fuel mileage on their SUV or quad-cab pickup and how it's nowhere near what was advertised when they bought it.

Face it, unless there's a "check engine" light on, or raw fuel is running out the tailpipe with belches of black smoke, there's precious little any shop can do to boost your vehicle's mileage and/or make up for your lack of eco-driving skills.

First, when you're shopping for vehicles, do some smart mileage homework.  Compare the U.S. EPA fuel economy ratings website versus NRCan's listings.  Just use a conversion table to display it in litres per 100 km.  Next, test it right.  Fill your chariot's tank to the first "off-click" of the fuel pump, drive at least 300 km and refill the tank in the same manner and check your fuel used versus distance travelled.

Finally, lighten up on the lead foot.  If you want power and speed, you won't get reord-setting fuel mileage.  Of all the mileage tests I've done for customers over the years, I've never had a problem in getting close to the NRCan or EPA ratings.

NORA AND NORMAN NOISE NUTS

This pair is a real mixed bag.  On the one hand we in the industry would hate to have a car owner ignore a noise that might develop into a serious safety or function problem, but we also have a big problem when someone brings in a vehicle for a noise and it's loaded with gear and stuff that rattles and bangs on every turn.

We've had vehicles with modified (read extremely loud) exhaust systems and off-road rock-crawling tires you can hear coming from four blocks away and the owner wants us to find some mysterious squeak noise coming from behind the instrument panel.

Advice to the Noise Nuts:  when the noise is consistent, make an appointment and bring the vehicle in empty of noisemakers.  Arrange to go for a road-test with the tech who will be working on the vehicle so that both sides are on the same noise page.

CANCELLING CLYDE/CLARA

These people drive just about any type of shop nuts.  An adviser will complete a detailed estimate after a tech has checked out the vehicle -- spending three times the average telephone chat answering all their questions before finally getting an approval.  The tech starts in on the job and 20 minutes later Clyde and/or Clara call back to cancel the job.

Clyde and Clara need to understand their vehicle was left on the hoist while the estimate was prepared.  As most such services mean replacing some part(s) or fluid, an efficient tech will start removing the required components to fill the order.  In 20 minutes or less a good tech can remove a lot of parts.

Unless you want to pay the labour to reinstate worn parts (and keep in mind less robust auto parts will be damaged upon removal), you pretty much need to be certain of what you want before you say yes.

LEVI LEAVE-IT-EMPTY

I saved the best for last.  This character will bring in a vehicle running on fumes and the low-fuel light on when he or she knows the repair will require a road-test and then will raise a right-royal ruckus when presented with a bill for fuel (often inflated to cover the time of a tech or apprentice to drive to the fuel station).  I'm assuming Levi thinks that if the vehicle is under warranty and needs fuel for a road-test, then the automaker will cover the cost.  Wrong.  No car manufacturer will reimburse a dealership for fuel added to a customer's vehicle.  The great majority of dealerships and repair shops do not have fuel on site so it takes time to drive your vehicle to the gas station and add some fuel.

If you want it worked on and we have to drive it, don't bring it in empty.  If it were up to me and a tech came to the counter stating the vehicle he/she has to road-test has a low fuel light on, I'd instruct them to park it and notify the owner when he or she came in at the end of the day to pick it up that fuel and another appointment was required.

Thanks for letting us vent.  We really do love our jobs, but where's the aspirin?

AUTOWEEK BEST OF THE BEST/TRUCK - CHEVROLET SILVERADO

The High Country features a chrome grille with horizontal bars,
halogen projector headlights and body-color front and rear bumpers.

 

By Autoweek Editors - When we first saw the new Chevy Silverado, we thought, "Hmmm, styling's conservative, interior quality looks a bit better ... these things better drive well or Chevy's in a heap of trouble."  No doubt, the new Silverado is an outstanding full-size pickup, so much so we put one on our June 24 cover and said that it was "more refined than ever."  And that's really the story here.

In our Best of the Best testing, we found the Silverado to be as quiet, refined and smooth as one could ask from a full-size pickup.  Testers also were impressed with the body control (for a large truck) and outstanding ride.

"It's the best non-air suspension truck I've ever driven," was one logbook comment.  Another: "the ride is the best thing about the big Chevy."  And this: "On the freeway, it drives like a luxury car."  The 6.2-liter V8 (420 hp, 460 lb-ft of torque) that we tested offers plenty of power, and shifts from the six-speed transmission are imperceptible.

The Acura MDX and just-introduced Jeep Cherokee were the other truck finalists.  They were mostly capable, solid and enjoyable.

The new MDX finished second to the Chevy, and we found it a terrific all-'rounder.  It scored high in balance and handling.

The Jeep stood out for its good-looking and comfortable interior, not to mention its solid structure.

What ultimately pushed the Silverado over the top was that refinement.  The cockpit is well built from quality materials, the seats comfortable for long hauls; we literally spent days behind the wheel with nary a complaint.  And, of course, the Silverado will haul a ton of stuff.

From the logbook:  "If you're in the market for a truck, the question isn't whether you want a Silverado; the question is which one you should get."

Like the outgoing Silverado, you can configure this one in a virtually infinite number of ways.  Rear-wheel drive, four-wheel drive, V6, V8, crew cab/short box, crew cab/long box, double cab, regular cab ... it's mind-boggling.

Really, though, you can't go wrong with any of them.

AUTOWEEK BEST OF THE BEST/CAR - CHEVROLET CORVETTE

 

2014 Corvette takes our top new car honors
 

By Autoweek Editors - The Corvette beat two other stout new cars, the Mercedes-Benz S550 and Jaguar F-Type.  We haven't exactly been shy about our lust for Chevrolet's seventh-generation two-seater.  Corvette engineers were charged with developing a car that would exceed expectations of the Corvette faithful, one that would also be the greatest performance car for the dollar on the planet.  Oh, and they were also told to make sure it's good enough to compete around the world.  The team succeeded.

First, some quick stats:  The new Corvette is about an inch longer than the outgoing model.  While styling is new, there's no mistaking that it's a Corvette.  The C7's mighty 6.2-liter V8 develops 455 hp and 460 lb-ft of torque.  It is direct injected and features cylinder deactivation, a Corvette first.  You can get a Tremec seven-speed manual, with active rev matching for upshifts and downshifts, or a six-speed automatic.

The other finalists went down swinging.  We found the second-place S550 gorgeous to look at -- inside and out.  The technology level is astounding, making it a comfortable cruiser, but one that can really be hustled for such a big car.

The Jaguar, meanwhile, impressed us with its sexy body, terrific power and rockin' exhaust note.

So what pushed the Corvette past the S-class and the Jag?

Well, almost everything.

The Chevy got high marks for its flexible engine -- "monster torque", wrote one staffer -- great brakes, and rock-solid chassis and handling.  "There's an eagerness here that a Corvette's never had," said one tester.  Other logbook comments included "amazing agility," "the engine is wonderful" and "jeez-o-pete, this car has NO body roll".

One staffer summed up his C7 experience thusly: "Every person who says they're a car enthusiast should have a new Corvette sitting in the garage".  We have never been able to say that about a Corvette before.

10 BEST ENGINES OF 2014 PICKED BY WARD'S AUTOMOTIVE

By Brandon Turkus, Autoblog.com - With the Car and Driver Ten Best decided, the North American Car and Truck of the Year finalists announced and Cadillac, Ram and Subaru chalking up wins with Motor Trend, it's fair to say that the automotive awards season is in full swing.  The next set of trophies to be handed out will be from Ward's Automotive, which has announced the winners of its 2014 10 Best Engines.

The latest contest was marked by the widespread emergence of diesel power and the continued success of turbocharged engines.  There was even an electric motor on this year's list.  In fact, only three of the ten winners were naturally aspirated and only two winners returned from last year.

"We weren't looking to throw the bums out, as they might say about an election.  We were just really impressed with the flood of new powertrains," said Ward's Automotive Editor-in-Chief Drew Winter.  Those new powertrains include the 83-kilowatt electric motor from the Fiat 500e, the 1.0-litre, EcoBoost three-cylinder from the Ford Fiesta and the 2.0-litre turbodiesel from the Chevrolet Cruze.

The carryovers from last year were Honda's 3.5-litre V6 from the Accord and Audi's excellent 3.0-litre, supercharged V6 from the S4 and S5.  Other big names to make the list include the 3.0-litre, turbodiesel six-cylinders from the BMW 535d and Ram 1500 EcoDiesel, as well as the new 6.2-litre V8 from the seventh-generation Chevy Corvette Stingray.  The Stingray and Cruze make Chevy the only brand to score two wins in this year's awards, although the Chrysler Group and Volkswagen Group had two awards among their sub-brands (Chrysler had Ram and Fiat, while VW Group had Audi and VW).

Read the entire press release from Ward's Automotive, which includes the complete list of winners as well as remarks on each engine.

Diesels, Turbos Dominate 2014 Ward's 10 Best Engines

By Tom Murphy

Three diesels, a tiny 3-cyl, turbo and a battery-electric vehicle are among the 2014 Ward's 10 Best Engines, illustrating the importance of fuel economy as automakers develop and market advanced new powertrains.

This is the 20th year for Ward's 10 Best Engines, a competition created to recognize outstanding powertrain achievement, world-class technologies and those rare engines or electric propulsion systems that are so compelling they help sell the vehicle.

The winners, which include eight engines using direct fuel injection and six with forced induction, emerged from a field of 44 powertrains evaluated by WardsAuto editors in October and November.

To be eligible, a new or significantly improved engine or propulsion system must be on sale in a production vehicle during the first quarter of 2014.  Base price is capped at $60,000, up from $55,000 last year.

This year's winners:

• 3.0L TFSI Supercharged DOHC V-6 (Audi S5)
• 3.0L Turbodiesel DOHC I-6 (BMW 535d)
• 3.0L Turbodiesel DOHC V-6 (Ram 1500 EcoDiesel)
• 83-kW Electric Motor (Fiat 500e)
• 1.0L EcoBoost DOHC I-3 (Ford Fiesta)
• 2.0L Turbodiesel DOHC I-4 (Chevrolet Cruze Diesel)
• 6.2L OHV V-8 (Chevrolet Corvette Stingray)
• 3.5L SOHC V-6 (Honda Accord)
• 2.7L DOHC H-6 boxer (Porsche Cayman)
• 1.8L Turbocharged DOHC I-4 (Volkswagen Jetta)

The Ward's 10 Best Engines competition pits the latest engines available in the U.S. market against the returning winners from the previous year.  Usually, at least four engines that won the prior year return to the winner's circle.  This year, only two are returning winners: Honda's 3.5L V-6 and Audi's 3.0L supercharged V-6.

"We weren't looking to throw the bums out, as they might say about an election.  We were just really impressed with a flood of new powertrains," says WardsAuto WorldEditor-in-Chief Drew Winter.  "What was great yesterday might be less impressive tomorrow because engine technology is changing so rapidly."

The arrival of six advanced diesel engines in multiple vehicle segments shook up the competition as all six scored well in the evaluations.  This is the first time more than two diesels have made the list in a single year.  The biggest decline this year comes in 4cyl. engines, as only two make the cut.  Last year, there were five:

Audi secures its fifth consecutive Ward's 10 Best Engines trophy for its 333-hp 3.0L supercharged V-6 tested in the S5 but also appearing in several other Audi luxury cars and CUVs.

Several new 6-cyl. engines have entered the market within the past five years, but few can match the Audi's brute strength, luscious torque and supreme refinement.

The last powerplant to rack up five straight Ward's 10 Best Engines trophies was Audi's 2.0L turbocharged I-4 in the A4, which was honored from 2006 to 2010.

BMW, the most recognized automaker with 30 trips to the 10 Best Engines podium over the past 20 years, returns with an amazingly quiet 3.0L turbodiesel inline 6-cyl. driven in the 535d sedan but also appearing in the X5 CUV.

An earlier version of this diesel made the list in 2009 and 2010, but it has been re-engineered.  The engine previously had two turbochargers, which have been replaced by a single variable-geometry turbocharger, resulting in slightly less power but significantly better fuel economy.

The torque peak of 413 lb.-ft. (560 Nm) arrives earlier now -- at 1,500 rpm, virtually eliminating turbo lag.  On the fuel-economy front, the 535d outperforms even some of the 4-cyl. diesels considered, topping 35 mpg (6.7 L/100 km) during some test drives.  That's better than the mileage we got with the earlier 3.0L diesel in the smaller 3-Series that won four years ago.

Another diesel making the list has been long overdue.  The 3.0L V-6 sourced from Fiat-owned VM Motori in Italy for the Ram 1500, is the first modern light-duty diesel engine for a fullsize pickup.  The engine also appears in the new Jeep Grand Cherokee SUV.

Ideally mated with a smooth-shifting 8-speed automatic transmission, the 3.0L turbodiesel goes about its business with little effort or humdrum and propels the 6,000 lb. (2,722-kg) truck with ease.

Some WardsAuto editors achieved better than 24 mpg (9.8 L/100 km) in mixed driving, which is remarkable in a truck this large.  Count on the Ram 1500 to deliver even better fuel economy during steady highway driving.  The EPA numbers are not yet available for the Ram diesel.

At the other end of the spectrum is the 500e electric city car, a first-time Ward's 10 Best Engines honor for the Fiat brand.

The 83-kW electric motor, fueled by a 24-kWh liquid-cooled lithium-ion battery pack, delivers 147 lb.-ft. (200 Nm) of torque at step-off, sending the 3,000-lb. (1,361-kg) 500e from the chute like a pinball.  The car repeatedly charged to 85 miles (137 km) of range, as advertised, but it consistently outperformed its indicated range.

Several EVs have been evaluated in recent years, but the 500e feels lighter, keeps up with highway traffic more capably, is loads of fun to drive and is reasonably affordable ($33,095 sticker).  Supplier Bosch contributed extensive engineering to the powertrain.

For now, the 500e is available only in California, where incentives reduce the price.  But a spike in fuel prices might have the rest of the country clamoring for it.

Ford manages to be the first automaker ever to win a Ward's 10 Best Engines trophy for a 3-cyl. engine, a tiny 1.0L powerplant with a cast-iron block small and light enough to fit in the overhead bin of a commercial jet.

The latest member of Ford's EcoBoost turbocharged direct-injected gasoline engine family is found now in the Fiesta subcompact with a base price of $16,050 and a highway fuel-economy rating of 45 mpg (5.2 L/100 km) with a 5-speed manual transmission.

Some WardsAuto editors report real-world mileage better than 37 mpg (6.3 L/100 km) in mixed suburban driving.

The 1.0L EcoBoost represents a technological achievement as well:  Clever engineering allows the engine to function without a balance shaft.  Instead, the flywheel and crank pulley are offset to counteract the odd firing sequence, which creates certain vibration challenges in a 3-cyl. engine.

The third diesel to make the list is General Motors' 2.0L 4-cyl. that makes the Chevrolet Cruze compact car a bona fide hybrid fighter while standing toe-to-toe with 4-cyl. diesels in German luxury cars that cost twice the price.

The only demerit comes for a slight grumble at low speed and idle, which is easily forgiven when the neck-snapping torque thrusts the Cruze onto the highway entrance ramp.

Test drives earlier in the year by Wards Auto editors confirmed the Cruze diesel can exceed its 46 mpg (5.1 L/100 km) highway fuel-economy rating.

During 10 Best Engines evaluations this fall, seven editors drove the Cruze around metro Detroit in short-route commuting and averaged nearly 37 mpg (6.3 L/100 km), besting a 2.1L 4-cyl. in the heavier luxury Mercedes E250 and running neck-and-neck with the 2.0L 4-cyl. in the BMW 328d.  Unlike the German cars, the Cruze Diesel stickers just over $28,000.

For the first time since 2008, GM has two engines on the list.  The second needs little introduction: the 90-degree small-block V-8 that has been in production since 1955 in race cars and production cars and trucks.

The clean-sheet fifth-generation small-block maintains the pushrod legacy while integrating a host of new technologies, such as direct injection and standard cylinder deactivation (marketed as Active Fuel Management), which work in tandem to deliver outstanding real-world fuel economy.

WardsAuto recognizes the 460-hp LT1 6.2L V-8 in the ferocious Chevrolet Corvette Stingray and finds its cousin, the L86 6.2L EcoTec3 V-8 in the GMC Sierra Denali, to be the most compelling of the three small-block truck engines.

The 6.2L engines share blocks, cylinder heads, crankshafts and other hardware but require unique intake, exhaust and lubrication systems and tuning.

Honda has a repeat winner, the Accord's 3.5L SOHC V-6, which has been a favorite of Ward's 10 Best Engines judges over the years.

This unflappable V-6 is the best naturally aspirated 6-cyl. engine in a mainstream vehicle at a time when most automakers are switching instead to turbocharged direct-injected 4-cyl. powerplants for better fuel efficiency.

Even using conventional port fuel injection, Honda's 3.5L V-6 beats most turbo-4s by routinely delivering 28 mpg (8.4 L/100 km) during our evaluations, same as it did last year, thanks in part to cylinder deactivation.

This latest award represents the 3.5L engine's fifth trophy since 2005.  Include earlier awards when the engine displaced 3.0L, and this SOHC architecture has earned eight trophies since 2003.

Porsche returns to the Ward's 10 Best Engines list after an 11-year hiatus, dazzling the judges with a 2.7L mid-mounted DOHC boxer that feels a lot more powerful than its rated 275 hp and 213 lb.-ft. (289 Nm) of torque in the Cayman 2-seat coupe.

Tipping the scales at a mere 2,888 lbs. (1,310 kg), the rear-wheel-drive Cayman begs to be driven hard and sounds spectacular in the process.

Nonetheless, WardsAuto editors routinely returned an impressive 23 mpg (10.2 L/100 km) thanks to the use of direct injection, stop/start, VarioCam Plus variable valve timing and lift on the intake camshafts and the ability to coast while consuming minimal fuel.

This is Porche's fourth Ward's 10 Best Engines trophy.  The automaker's last award came in 2002 for an earlier version of the 2.7L flat-6 in the Boxster.

Volkswagen wins its ninth Ward's 10 Best Engines award for its 1.8L turbocharged 4-cyl., which springs from the automaker's all-new third-generation EA888 engine family.

In the affordably priced Jetta, the 1.8L is quiet, efficient and a riot to drive in sport mode, happily popping off the line even with a 6-speed automatic transmission.  Several editors logged close to 30 mpg (7.8 L/100 km) in mixed driving, thanks in part to a subtle stop/start system, and the EPA says 36 mpg (6.5 L/100 km) is possible on the highway.

There are several excellent 4-cyl. turbocharged engines in the U.S. market, but VW's re-engineered 1.8L represents the new benchmark.

Eight WardsAuto editors chose the winners after spending October and November evaluating 44 new or significantly upgraded engines in their routine daily commutes around metro Detroit.  Editors score each engine based on power, torque, technology, observed fuel economy, relative competitiveness and noise, vibration and harshness characteristics.

The awards will be presented at a Jan. 15 ceremony in Detroit during the North American International Auto Show.

2014 CHEVROLET SS

By Jeremy Korzeniewski, Autoblog.com - As the year of 1972 was drawing to a close, my father had finally saved up enough money to buy himself his first new car, and his heart was set on a Chevrolet Chevelle SS.  And no wonder -- the midsize Chevy Super Sport had earned a reputation for performance with rugged good looks to match.  Its twin stripes and domed hood hid a 402-cubic-inch V8 engine (though Chevy still called it a 396, owing to that mill's muscle car heritage), and, though down on power from the horsepower heyday of 1970, it sent tons of American grunt to the rear wheels in the very best tire-melting fashion.

Then 1973 rolled around, and General Motors completely remade its midsize offerings, eschewing the chiseled good looks of past models for what many, including my father, thought was a bloated, squared-off design that didn't look very muscular.  Good old Dad did the right thing -- he bought a '73 Firebird, and thus became a Pontiac man for life.  And that's how my family grew up with a long slew of Pontiac machinery that included a Grand Prix or three, several Trans Ams and a barn full of GTO convertibles in various states of repair and disrepair.

While the Pontiac nameplate has since ascended to the great automotive graveyard in the sky, there's a direct link between the old Chevelle of yesteryear through the last Pontiac GTO and its spiritual successor, the G8, and the brand-spankin'-new 2014 Chevy SS that is today's subject du jour.  And, somewhat surprisingly, that link has long since left North America, diverting its way through Australia instead.  Allow us to explain.

 

Under its skin, the 2014 Chevy SS is a Holden Commodore.  Although this means that the vast majority of development work on this seemingly most North American of performance sedans was actually done by the Aussies, it also means that the SS rides and handles rather well.  This comes as little surprise, considering that this isn't the first time GM has released a Holden on North America, and each time the result has been an excellent vehicle to drive.  First was the 2004 Pontiac GTO, a vehicle that was appreciated by enthusiasts but mostly unloved in the marketplace due to its tepid styling and questionable link to the iconic model with which it shared its name.  Next was the 2008 Pontiac G8.  It, too, was somewhat dourly styled, and although it was received with a more fervent welcome than the reborn GTO, the baby that was the G8 sedan was thrown out with Pontiac's excitement-tinged bathwater when the brand was killed off in 2010.

This isn't the first time GM has released a Holden on North America

Third time the charm, then?  GM certainly hopes so, as this new SS sedan from Chevrolet is the latest model to be designed and built in Australia and shipped to the United States (we're still waiting on whether or not us in Canada will get the privilege of having this beast sold here) as a performance sedan.  And the more things change, the more they stay the same -- it could certainly be argued that the SS lacks visual excitement.  I happen to like its understated design, but I also liked the somewhat slow-selling G8.

Up front, the SS carries a familial front fascia that would look equally at home on the Cruze or Malibu as it does here, and that's not exactly a ringing endorsement for a car called Super Sport.  In profile, the SS again carries a basic shape that says 'family car' more than it says sport sedan.  There's a vent in the front fender and a mild ground effects package that spices things up a bit, and the sheet metal is pulled nicely taut around the wide, 19-inch wheels.  At the rear, the story remains the same, with simple but attractive lines.  Dual exhaust tips and a petite spoiler are the only concessions to extroverts who'd like everyone else to know how fast their car is, but by the time they see those bits at the rear, they'll already have been passed.

This brings up a positive aspect of the SS:  since it looks mostly nondescript, few others on the road will be expecting the 415-horsepower 6.2-litre V8 engine underhood.  Unless, of course, you use its 415 pound-feet of torque to roast the rear tires at every stoplight, which is an extremely easy task in the SS.

 

The next time we hang with the Holdenites, the first round of Fosters is on us

 

Put the power to the ground properly and the SS will scoot from 0-60 mph (0-96 km/h) in about five seconds, says the folks from Chevy, and it's easy to believe them.  Hold your foot to the floor for about 13 seconds and you'll see a quarter mile pass right on by.  Those are excellent performance figures, and they are within spitting distance of the high-four-second 0-60 mph (0-96 km/h) time of the Dodge Charger SRT8 (and its sibling, the Chrysler 300 SRT8).  Acceleration, though, is only part of the car's performance envelope.

General Motors and its Holden division have done an excellent job tuning the Chevy SS.  The electric power steering is nicely weighted and knows that straight ahead sits, well, straight ahead -- meaning it's not afflicted with the maladies commonly attributed to electric power steering setups.  The next time we hang with the Holdenites, the first round of Fosters is on us.

Ride and handling is another area where the SS excels.  Grip from the 245/40ZR19 front and 275/35ZR19 rear Bridgestone Potenza RE050A tires is plentiful, and its ability to stick in a corner doesn't result in a harsh ride.  Instead, the SS is firm, comfortable and never floaty on the road, and I never hit any bumps large enough to upset its chassis.  The actual oily bits aren't terribly high-tech -- MacPherson strut front and multi-link independent rear -- but they are very well engineered.

The most notable nit to pick with the driving experience is the SS's six-speed automatic transmission.  Not only is GM's unit a few gears short of most of its competitors, the Hydra-Matic 6L80 can sometimes be a bit slow to shift, either when left in Drive or when using the TAPSHift paddles.  In order to make the gearbox shift up at the perfect time ahead of redline, the driver needs to pull the paddle, which is cast from an unfortunately flimsy plastic, a split-second earlier than expected, else the LS3 V8 (borrowed from the C6 Corvette) will bounce off its hard rev limiter a bit past its 6,000-rpm redline.  This behavior is especially noticeable because the engine loves to rev with a quickness foretold by its 415-horse peak that isn't attained until a lofty 5,900 rpm.

The transmission's lack of ratios is reflected in its lackluster fuel economy figures of 16.8 city and 11.2 L/100 km on the highway (14 miles per gallon in the city and 21 on the highway).  The more powerful SRT8 models from Chrysler manage 16.8/10.2 L/100 km (14/23 mpg), though they require premium gas, while the Hyundai Genesis R-Spec Sedan earns ratings of 14.7/9.4 L/100 km (16/25 mpg) while putting out 429 horsepower and 376 lb-ft.  Each of these competitors features an eight-speed auto.

Standard braking hardware consists of vented, 14-inch (355-mm) two-piece rotors and four-piston calipers from Brembo up front and 12.7-inch solid rotors at the rear, and they perform admirably bringing the 1,803 kilogram (3,975-pound) sedan down from speed.  Initial bite is good, and while I didn't do any driving on a track, I never experienced anything resembling fade on the road.

There isn't much brand-new technology in the SS, although it does represent Chevy's first use of Automatic Parking Assist.  This system is capable of parking the vehicle without much intervention from the driver.  Using ultrasonic sensors, it can perform its duties moving either forward or in reverse, and it can parallel park.  As we'd expect, the SS comes standard with electronic braking assist, forward collision alert, lane-departure warning, blind zone alert, rear cross-traffic alert, a rearview camera and OnStar.  That fully stocked suite of safety tech joins Chevrolet's latest MyLink infotainment system on an eight-inch screen, covering navigation, phone pairing, music apps and more.

 

The SS outdoes all comers in its class is spaciousness.

 

With butt firmly planted in seat, the interior of the SS is a nice place to spend some time.  Seats are comfortable, if a little short on lateral bolstering, and all the gauges are right in front where the driver would expect.  There aren't any funky sight lines, and, unlike the Camaro with which the SS shares its Zeta platform, you can actually see out of this performance sedan in all directions.  The dash is covered in leather and suede (or at least convincing facsimiles of the real thing) and feels of quality.  The same can be said of the center stack, though some may find its two-tone metal finish a bit too blingy.

The SS outdoes all comers in its class is spaciousness.  The EPA considers the SS, 300 SRT8 and Genesis R-Spec as large cars, but the Chevy's interior volume of 3,171 litres (112 cubic feet) and 464 litre (16.4 cubic-foot) trunk lead the 300 and Genesis.  Numbers only tell part of the story, though.  The SS boasts an airy cockpit that's lacking in the SRT8 sedans, and is seemingly tailor-made for fullsize North American frames.  There's plenty of room for four adults, and a third in the back seat can tolerate more than just brief trips so long as they aren't in the 90th percentile.

 

It's telling that Chevy lists the BMW 5 Series as a key combatant.

 

Speaking of competitors, it's telling that Chevy lists the BMW 5 Series as a key combatant.  It may not be fair to compare a six-cylinder sedan from an upscale German brand with a bread-and-butter machine from Chevrolet, and I doubt many potential buyers will be cross shopping them, but since Chevy threw the dart, let's play.  In pure performance terms, there's little doubt the SS could keep pace with the 535i, which costs a cool US$10k more with a twin-turbo six-cylinder engine.  That said, and despite the fact that, at US$44,470 and with just two available options (a sunroof and a fullsize spare tire), this is clearly the most upscale sedan from Chevy in quite some time, it's no BMW.  Interior finishes are of high enough quality, and the fit and finish is generally good, but the SS is lacking the taut lines and techy feel of the Bimmer, and there aren't many consumers who'd trade a Roundel for a Bowtie.

It's most appropriate to line the SS up against the aforementioned SRT8 sedans from Chrysler and Dodge and the Hyundai Genesis R-Spec, along, we suppose, with the Ford Taurus SHO.  And in this company, the SS has the best reflexes and tuning, the roomiest cabin and a torque-rich engine that pulls hard enough to make you forget that it's down on power to the big Hemi.  Remember, though, that Chevy is selling its sedan in just one mostly loaded trim, while the Chryslers have pricier models and many an option pack on the options list.

The 2014 Chevy SS would benefit from an eight-speed automatic transmission, or even a manual (the seven-speed rev-matching box from the Corvette Stingray would be perfect), along with direct injection, variable valve timing and cylinder deactivation for more power and better fuel economy.  Again, the latest 'Vette's LS3 engine would be delightful.  If the SS were indeed blessed with the powertrain of the Stingray, I'd call it a bargain at its purchase price.  And finally, though looks are subjective, some of us wouldn't turn down just a little more eye candy.

A four-door Corvette it's not, and neither is it a retro nod to the aforementioned Chevelle SS of the past.  But that's okay.  Because what the SS is -- a credible performance sedan capable of lining up against the best of the rest the world has to offer -- is plenty enough to make this Australian-American a winner that doesn't need gimmicks to impress ... at least for a few thousand people per year, which is all that The General is planning to sell, anyway.

2015 CHEVY CORVETTE Z06 CONFIRMED FOR DETROIT AUTO SHOW DEBUT

By Noah Joseph, Autoblog.com - As capable as the new Corvette Stringray is, and as many as Chevy has sold so far, we all knew it was only the beginning.  The Stingray Convertible goes on sale later this month, but the version enthusiasts have really been looking forward to is the Z06.  And soon the wait will be over.

Although Chevrolet hasn't released much in the way of details to go with the teaser shot shown here, it has confirmed that the new Corvette Z06 will be unveiled in full at the Detroit Auto Show next month.  All we can really glean from the teaser image are the low-profile Michelin Pilot Sport Cup tires on lightweight-looking alloys, as well as carbon-fibre side skirt and fender-flare extensions.  Promised to be "the most track-capable Corvette ever," the new Z06 (not Z07 as previously speculated) was "designed to deliver supercar levels of performance through unique powertrain, chassis and aerodynamic features".

Once production gets under way late next year, it will join a growing family of performance Chevys, alongside the Camaro range, the new SS performance sedan, and of course the rest of the Corvette lineup.  Scope out the press release below for full text.

 

Chevrolet to Introduce 2015 Corvette Z06 at Detroit Show
Most-capable Corvette ever will lead industry's broadest range of performance cars

DETROIT -- Chevrolet will introduce the 2015 Corvette Z06 next month at the North American International Auto Show, in Detroit.  It will be the most track-capable Corvette ever, designed to deliver supercar levels of performance through unique powertrain, chassis and aerodynamic features.

The debut of the Corvette Z06 will complete Chevrolet's performance-car lineup, which will also see the addition of the Corvette Stingray convertible, Camaro Z/28 and SS sedan.

"Chevrolet is America's favorite performance car brand, and for 2014 we are going to offer enthusiasts more choices than ever before," said Alan Batey, senior vice-president, Global Chevrolet.  "No other manufacturer will be able to match the breath of performance cars from Chevrolet."

Chevrolet Sells One Out of Four Performance Cars in 2013

For the first 11 months of 2013, Chevrolet has accounted for approximately 25 percent of all performance car sales in the U.S. as Corvette and Camaro continue to lead their respective segments.

Corvette outsold its closest competitor, the Porsche 911, for the first 11 months of 2013.  This is all the more remarkable given Corvette production was halted for six-months, in order to upgrade the Bowling Green, Ky., assembly plant to build the 2014 Corvette Stingray.  In November, Corvette sales jumped 229 percent year-over-year, as demand for the new Stingray continues to outstrip supply.

Camaro also outsold its closest competitor, the Ford Mustang, for the first 11 months of 2013.  Camaro enters December with a 4,093-unit lead in total sales.  More importantly, Camaro has an estimated 10,000-unit lead in retail sales.  If that lead continues through the end of the year, 2013 will be the fourth consecutive year Camaro has been the best-selling sports car in the U.S.

Four new Performance Cars for 2014

The sales lead for Chevrolet is expected to accelerate as the brand adds four new performance cars to the lineup, including:

• First full calendar year of sales for the 2014 Chevrolet SS sedan: The all-new SS, which went onsale in October of 2013, is based on a race-proven, global platform that underpins the Camaro, Caprice police vehicle and, in Australia, the high-performance Holden VF Commodore.  Elements including lightweight aluminum hood and deck lid panels help give the SS a nearly 50/50 weight balance, while the performance of its 6.2L V-8 -- rated at 415 horsepower- and six-speed automatic transmission enables 0-60 mph acceleration in five seconds flat.
• First full year of sales for the 2014 Corvette Stingray Convertible: The Stingray Convertible, which goes on sale this month, shares identical chassis tuning and performance technologies with the coupe, with structural changes limited to accommodations for the folding top and repositioned safety belt mounts.  As such, the Stingray Convertible requires no sacrifices for a drop-top driving experience, offering up to 460 horsepower /465 lb.-ft. with the available performance exhaust system; capable of more than 1 g in cornering; and sprinting from 0-60 in under 4 seconds.
• Arrival of the 2014 Camaro Z/28: The Camaro Z/28, which arrives in dealers in the second-quarter of 2014, will be the most track-capable Camaro ever.  Recently, the Z/28 logged a 7:37.40 lap on Germany's legendary Nurburgring road course, a time comparable with some of the world's most prestigious sports cars -- and the Z/28 lap was completed in the rain.
• Debut of the 2015 Corvette Z06: The all-new Corvette Z06 will make its public debut at the 2014 North American International Auto Show in Detroit in January. Production is expected to begin in late 2014.

WE TRACK TEST CHEVY'S NEW PERFORMANCE ADD-ONS FOR THE CAMARO

By Seyth Miersma, Autoblog.com - The SEMA Show in Las Vegas is almost universally more show than go.  The monster performance cars and unholy super-modified rides that line the show halls are undoubtedly impressive, but we journalists rarely have the chance to do much more than look at them while we're in town.  So, it was a real breath of fresh air to hang out with Chevy at Las Vegas Motor Speedway, and drive a set of Camaros that had been freshly shod with go-fast bits from the company's newly refreshed performance parts catalogue.

The Bowtie brand is redoubling its efforts to offer racing-inspired and "track-hardened" componentry for the Gen5 Camaro.  And while this isn't a space in the aftermarket that is devoid of third-party entries, Chevy's sales pitch is a strong one: its parts do not void the manufacturer's warranty and they're designed and engineered by the same teams that design and engineer the cars themselves.

As you might expect, the performance parts in question are drawn in large measure from two of Camaro's turnkey variants, the 1LE and the mighty ZL1.  Perhaps most compelling of the whole group is the 1LE Track Pack (US$1,500) that includes larger front and rear stabilizer bars, retuned front struts and monotube rear shocks that transform the handling of the pony car.  The package works with the stock chassis control and antilock braking software, and can be fitted to both V6 and V8 models.  The ZL1 offers up a huge number of its parts to the catalog, including front and rear brake kits (US$4,150/US$2,500 front/rear for a V8 car, US$7,200 for all four wheels for the V6), a short-throw shifter kit and a fuel pump (US$350 and US$420, respectively).  Note: Canadian specs are slightly different but track packs are offered.
I drove a selection of V6 and V8 Camaros at the infield track of the speedway with some cone challenge sections, and also got my feet wet at the nearby drag strip, with a couple of drag-prepped, six-speed manual Camaro SS'.

Driving Notes

• The Camaro that I was most taken with on the road course in Las Vegas, and the one that I hopped back into for extra lapping, was actually a 2013 Camaro V6.  The Silver pony car had been fitted with the SS brake package, 1LE suspension package, strut tower brace and the performance exhaust.
• The 1LE suspension components give the Camaro remarkably more lateral stiffness while running through a short section of slalom cones that Chevy had set up.  I drove a standard '13 V6 immediately before the 1LE-prepped car, and the transformation was pretty incredible.  The car was absolutely flat through rapid changes of direction, making far better use of the available grip, as well.  Chevy engineers pointed out that they had left the same wheel/tire package on both the modified and unmodified car, to better show off how transformational the underpinnings could be.
• There's no question that the more powerful SS cars were faster around the light track, but I actually enjoyed flinging the newly stiff V6 more.  With the 1LE's suspension, the lighter nose of the V6 Camaro was thrown in pretty dramatic relief.  The car felt faster on turn-in and seemed to take a set and move forward more quickly, too.
• Both the stock and modified V6 cars I drove were equipped with a six-speed automatic transmission.  The infield was tight enough that a manual car could lap it quickly in second gear, but the autobox wanted to shift up too soon in a few spots.  The manual-mode shifting is kind of slow to react, too.  This isn't a racing transmission, to be sure, but it was mildly disappointing on the track, nevertheless.
• The SS braking kit proved to offer a clear advantage over the stock set of stoppers.  The initial bite from the brake pedal was firmer, and I was able to stop quite a bit farther back in the emergency stopping box that had been laid out on the course.  That said, the heavier V8 Camaros equipped with the 14.6-inch rotors and 6-piston calipers from the front brakes of the ZL1 were decidedly quicker at retarding speed.
• As I mentioned, there were two drag-prepped SS cars with which we could take quarter-mile runs; not quite up to the level of the COPO Camaros, but in that same spirit.  The big modification here included a complete ZL1 rear axle system: 9.9-inch ring gear, heavy-duty limited slip differential in a cast iron housing, and a beefed up driveshaft and half-shafts.  The engineers on hand were all pretty cocky that this rear end was all but unbreakable, which was good to hear as this was my first time drag racing.
• Now, most guys who drag race their Camaros opt for automatic transmissions for more perfect launches and upshifts, but Chevy had built our two cars with the newly available short-throw six-speed.  I actually found the manual trans to be pretty easy to use, though I know I shifted up a hair too late, twice, on my second run.
• The Camaros at the strip also came correct with the LS3 heads and LS7 camshaft package that adds around 40 horsepower to the SS V8.  Between the added weight of the HD rear axle system and the excitement of the competitive environment, it's hard to say that the extra grunt was obvious.  I'm sure back-to-back runs in modified and unmodified cars would have eventually told the tale, both by the seat of my pants and on the clock.  In any case, there was more than enough power to launch incredibly hard and throw me back in my seat with great force.
• How'd I do?  Well, I ran like the rookie that I was.  I recorded a 13.826-second time at 105.86 miles per hour my first time out.  That's clearly not indicative of the true performance potential of the vehicle; a few of the guys that followed me were just a fraction over 13 seconds, and everyone seemed sure that ranges in the 12s were totally doable.
• In all it was an enlightening day of track-oriented fun, and one that foretold a lot of great Camaro customization to come in the future.  There's just not much to dislike about making a fast car faster.

2015 CHEVROLET COLORADO'S NEW LOOK IS MORE WEEKEND TOY THAN CONTRACTOR'S TOOL

By Antuan Goodwin, CNET.com - Chevrolet debuted the 2015 Colorado mid-sized pickup at the 2013 LA Auto Show this week.  The new model is set to arrive at dealerships in the fall of next year.  Rather than wearing a downsized version of the highly rectangular facia that Chevy's larger Silverado trucks have, the Colorado's front end appears to have heavy influences from the automaker's sedan models, such as the Malibu or Impala.  There even appears to be a hint of Camaro DNA in the Z71 model's projector headlamps.  The result looks less like something a contractor would rive, and more like a sporty toy for the weekend; I really like the look.

At launch, Chevrolet will offer the Colorado with a choice of two engines.  Those looking for efficiency will be interested in the 2.5-liter 4-banger that outputs 193 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque, with what Chevrolet call "class leading fuel efficiency."  Those looking for a bit more grunt will have the larger 3.6-liter V-6 option, which bumps output to 302 horsepower and 270 pound-feet of torque.

2015 Chevrolet Colorado pickup debuts in LA

The 2015 Chevrolet Colorado will be available in WT, LT and Z71 trims, all in either 2WD or 4WD, and all of which are mated to a six-speed automatic transmission.  Electronic power steering and aerodynamic tweaks, such as an active shutter grill that closes at highway speeds to help the truck slip through the air, help the Colorado boost its fuel economy.

Of course, Chevrolet is claiming best in class towing, payload, and fuel economy for the new Silverado.  When properly equipped, it should be able to trailer more than 6,700 pounds.

Shortly after launch, the Colorado will gain yet a third engine option: a 2.8-liter Duramax 4-cylinder turbodiesel engine, potentially the most efficient and torque-y mill of the bunch.  In its previous appearances, this engine output 180 horsepower and 346 pound-feet of torque, making it a great fit for a mid-sized pickup.  Chevy claims it will also be the only turbodiesel available in this class.

Among the other "bests and firsts", the automaker asserts that the Silverado's cabin will be the quietest in class, though it doesn't look like much to write home about.  Like a truck should, the interior appears to be functional and simple.  However, the pickup will be available with Chevrolet's newest OnStar and MyLink infotainment, powered by an eight-inch diagonal color touch screen.  The instrument cluster also features a 3.4-inch screen for displaying additional driver information.

In addition to the dashboard tech, the pickup will also be available with standard safety features like a rear view camera system and optional features, including Lane Departure Warning and Forward Collision Alert.

Pricing and specific fuel economy have yet to be announced for the 2015 Chevrolet Colorado, but we expect to learn more as the 2014 launch approaches.

ROAD & TRACK NAMES ITS 2013 PERFORMANCE CAR OF THE YEAR

By Damon Lowney, Autoblog.com - Road & Track recently staged its first annual Performance Car of the Year test, pitting 13 new and updated performance cars against each other on track, then graduating the top six to a road test before picking a winner.  Additional, the magazine staff picked the best automobiles of the year in eight categories.

But first, let's cover the PCotY segment.  Here's the list of cars brought to the comparison test: Audi R8 V10 Plus; BMW 435i, BMW M6 Competition Package; Chevrolet Corvette Stingray Z51; Ferrari F12 Berlinetta; Ford Fiesta ST; Jaguar F-Type V8 S; Jaguar XFR-S; Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG S-Model Wagon; Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Black Series; Mini John Cooper Works GP; Nissan GT-R Track Edition; and Porsche Cayman S.

To find out the results of the comparison, check the press release below, where you'll find the magazine's top-rated vehicles in eight categories.

ROAD & TRACK NAMES THE BEST CARS OF 2013Performance Car of the Year Award Goes to the Chevrolet Corvette

NEW YORK, NY (November 14, 2013) -- Road & Track today announced its first-ever "Best Cars" list, distinguishing the best new automobiles and trucks of the year.  The honorees will be recognized in the December 2013/January 2014 issue, on newsstands November 19.  Among the winners, the 2014 Chevrolet Corvette has been named Road & Track's Performance Car of the Year.

To select the Corvette, the editors tested 13 of the world's hottest sports cars on challenging mountain roads and on The Motown Mile, Road & Track's private circuit.  A knockout formula whittled the field down to six from which one winner prevailed.

"We selected the Corvette because it represents an incredible achievement: Not only is it wickedly fast, it's now also a delight to drive on the challenging, twisty roads that used to be the car's nemesis," said Larry Webster, editor-in-chief of Road & Track.  "Plus, it's a real bargain and looks fantastic."

In addition to the Corvette, eight other vehicles were selected as "Best Cars" in the following categories:

The Best Cars of 2013

Best Luxury Sedan: 2014 Cadillac CTS - With its 420 hp twin-turbo V-6, locking rear diff (technology borrowed from the C7 Corvette), and magnetorheological shocks, the CTS Vsport is the surprise performer of the class.

Best Family Sedan: 2014 Mazda 6 - This car is as close to perfect as you can get for the money.  The steering and chassis make other sedans feel ordinary.

Best SUV: 2014 Land Rover Range Rover Sport - A new lightweight aluminum structure dramatically increases efficiency.  But mostly, the Sport is a little louder, a little more locked-down, a little more our speed.

Best Pickup: 2014 Chevrolet Silverado - A better interior, infotainment that isn't ancient or tacked-on, and a fresh take on clean, no-nonsense styling.  Plus, a comfortable ride that nearly rivals the best in class.

Best Wagon: 2014 Mercedes-Benz E-Class - Our pick is for the E-class, the only true wagon sold here that offers rear-facing third-row seats.  And a 577-hp twin-turbo AMG V-8.

Best Economy Car: 2014 Mazda 3 - The $17,740 3 is light-2800 pounds for the one you want, the 2.0-liter, manual version-and stiff in the chassis where it counts.  You can drive it all day with a grin on your face.  And you'll want to.

Best Diesel: 2014 Audi A8 - The A8's TDI V-6 renders the old diesel tropes null and void.  The only difference between a diesel A8 and a gasoline-fueled version, in practical terms, is what fuel goes in and what economy numbers come out.

Best Electric: 2014 Fiat 500c - The people at Fiat's electric-vehicle division must like having big fun on the clock, because this thing will chirp its tires and lay elevens all day.

VILNER REDOES '76 CORVETTE STINGRAY TO SHOW OFF INTERIOR PROWESS

By Jeffrey N. Ross, Autoblog.com - From modern cars to classics and even motorcycles, Vilner has been showing off its leather customization skills for years, but we have to admit we were a little skeptical when we saw that the Bulgarian company had gotten hold of a 1976 Chevy Corvette Stingray.  Not to say the C3 'Vette couldn't benefit from an interior makeover, but we wondered how the company's modern leather work would match up with the car's classic styling.

In terms of leather crafting, Vilner went crazy inside this Corvette with nappa leather (from a calf) from top to bottom including everything from the seats to the T-tops.  The instrument panel is completely wrapped in leather, and it has newer gauges for a more modern look, while the door panels get unique leather pull straps and Corian inserts -- yes, the same high-quality material used for countertops.  Some of the detailed touches include laser etching on the seats and door panels and even leather-wrapped stalks for the turn signals and tilt-steering column.

After focusing on the interior, Vilner also gave this C3 some distinctive touches to the exterior, including LED taillights and running lights as well as custom luggage to fit atop the rear luggage rack.  Finally, the engine received some attention.  New heads and carburetors give the 350-cubic-inch V8 an estimated 300 horsepower.  Below is the press release.

Vilner Transforms 1976 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray C3

Our latest project a classical 1976 Chevrolet Corvette has received fine makeover, which refreshes the forms of the legendary Stingray C3 and at the same time keeps the classic lines of the U.S. muscle car.

In order to turn this car in to another magnificent project of our studio, the work on this Corvette started with the engine.  The 5.7 liter V8 Small Block unit got a new head, shafts and two twin carburetors.

All of them were delivered by the U.S. experts at Edelbrock Performance.  The generation was shortened and was carried over to the side of the body.  The machine hasn't been put through a dyno test, which means that the results of the power tuning are not known.  What is expected however is a peak power of 300 hp (220 kW).

The exterior of the car has also been modified and has received new varnish in pearl brown color, while the targa roof trim got upholstery from calf leather adorned by decorative stitching.  The original nickel-plated wheels were left untouched as well as the form of the tail-lights.

The latter, however, have entirely new bodies that rely on new LED lights that in turn add a note of futurism in the classic stance of the carosserie.  In order to be convenient for driving, this Corvette got new daytime running lights as well as new turn signals.

To go even further into details, into the original bodies of the parking-lights and indicators were integrated LED-daytime running lights and LED-indicators, as well as into those of the tail-lights.  They were created specifically for this automobile and indeed they are unique.  In the opening of the front fenders were inbuilt two chrome-plated grills, while the rear bumper of the car is with completely changed design for a better line.

One of the most attractive features here is the original chrome-plated boot on which is attached a vintage suitcase made of camel leather.

The interior is where the true power of Vilner lies and this classic Corvette took the maximum advantage of this fact.  The dashboard was entirely transformed; new is also the design of the dials of the tachometer and speedometer.

The audio system here is made of high quality source by McIntosh, three amplifiers and three-band front system delivered by Ground Zero, as well as two subwoofers by Peerless.

Furthermore, the seat's upholstery was made of a combination between calf-nappa leather and box, while the laser engraving provided an additional note of personalization.  At last, the elements made of wood veneer were replaced by inserts made of high-tech Corian material.

CORVETTE STINGRAY INSPIRES AWE

Sleek and sinewy, the all-new 2014 Corvette Stingray is powered
by a direct-injected, 460-hp V8 with 465 lb.-ft. of torque
that can cruise on four cylinders on the highway.

By Graeme Fletcher, Postmedia News - Sliding behind the wheel, I plant a boot on the brake and push the start button.  The Chevrolet Corvette Stingray's engine roars to life with the sort of basso profondo only a North American V8 can produce.  The vapour is rising from the tailpipes as I ease off down the street.  It is going to be a special drive.

A cool fall morning and performance tires do not mix well, so, scrolling through the various drive modes, I pick Weather -- the system tailors 12 different parameters to optimize the driving characteristics to the selected mode.  In this instance, it softens the Corvette's throttle response, which makes it feel like I'm toying with a kitten and not holding a tiger by the tail.  The steering is light, the traction control is set to maximum intervention and the exhaust note is muted.

As I drive, I weave left and right gently in an attempt to get some heat into the tires.  After a few kilometres, I bypass the Eco mode and select Tour.  The throttle now feels alive, the electronic overseer is not as eager to dive in and all four tailpipes are now barking.  It is the ideal cruising mode.

Once out of suburbia and alone on my favourite stretch of serpentine tarmac, it's time to get serious.

Sport mode amps everything up.  It now snaps and growls as I row up and down the seven-speed manual gearbox.

After several spirited runs through my private "track", I feel confident enough to grasp the tiger by its tail and put the Vette into its Track mode.

I change the heads-up display information hovering at the end of the long hood to the Track mode, which emphasizes the data needed when flirting with the limits.  The throttle becomes ever sharper, the steering is firmer and has a more direct feel, there is no traction control intervention and the optional Magnetic Ride control suspension becomes rock solid -- the tiny amount of roll evident in Weather mode has completely disappeared.

When pushed, the Vette lets its tail drift, but it does so in a completely manageable manner with none of the vicious snap that makes so many supercars a handful.  There is an off position for the stability control system, but sanity prevails this time.

At this point, the Vette's P245/35R19 front and P285/30R20 rear run-flat tires are up to temperature and my smile is wide.  The handling is world class by any measure.  Ditto the Brembo brakes and the fade-free stopping power they return almost without regard to how hard they are leaned on.

This, however, only tells part of the story.

Yes, the engine still uses Chevrolet's time-honoured push rods and just two valves per cylinder, but it now adopts direct injection and can lope along on four of its eight cylinders in the Eco mode.  The 6.2-litre V8 pushes 460 horsepower and 465 pound-feet of torque at a very usable 4,500 rpm.  It proved to be a much more refined and flexible power source than I was expecting.

Power is relayed to the rear wheels through the aforementioned seven-speed manual gearbox, whose ratios get the very best out of the engine.  The first four gears, especially with the Z51 Performance package along for the ride, are aimed at getting things to a roaring boil as quickly as possible.  The other three gears then bring better fuel economy and relaxed highway cruising.

The seventh, the engine is barely breaking a sweat.  In the end, the combination delivered remarkable fuel economy and awe-inspiring acceleration.  The former rated a very good 12.9 litres per 100 kilometres during the test.  The latter instilled some serious motivation.

My hand-held stopwatch clocked the run to 100 km/h at four seconds flat and saw the more important 80 to 120 km/h time come in at a breathtaking 3.0 seconds in third gear -- second gear runs out of breath at around 100 km/h.

One of the features I did enjoy was the rev-match mode, which is accessed through steering wheel-mounted paddles -- it automatically brings the engine to the right revs for the chosen gear.  It can be likened to an automated heel/toe shift without having to do the intricate ballet needed to get it right every time.

As for the cabin, well, it is all business with a smattering of pampering.  The optional sport buckets are more accurately described as wing-backs -- they provide a ton of lateral support.  This and power tilt/telescopic steering allows the perfect driving position to be established and saved.  The instrumentation is fully configurable (and it is mirrored in the heads-up display), the controls are logically laid out and there is a nifty storage cubby behind the infotainment/navigation screen.  It is very nicely finished to boot.

The lone anomaly is found in the mirrors -- the interior and rear-view mirrors are small enough they would not look out of place on the diminutive Chevy Spark.  This mandates keeping an alert eye out whenever changing lanes.

So there you have it:  the seventh-generation Chevrolet Corvette Stingray.  The new aluminum chassis, wonderful dynamics and power combine to make it a true super-car by any measure.  It is supremely fast, sharp to obey driver input, and is entirely manageable in an urban environment.  That alone would be enough to make a very strong case for the new Stingray.

However, it also blows the super-car crowd away price-wise.  It starts at $56,520 and even when duded up with almost $18,000 in options, it still costs about $20,000 less than the entry-level Porsche 911 and SRT Viper.

NATIONAL CORVETTE MUSEUM RECEIVES LARGEST DONATION OF CARS TO DATE

 

By Jeffrey N. Ross, Autoblog.com - As the mecca for Chevy Corvette enthusiasts, the National Corvette Museum in Bowling Green, KY allows Corvette lovers to experience the car's 60 years and seven generations.  There's more to see than ever before now that the museum has received its largest donation of cars ever courtesy of Don Messner.

Messner was diagnosed with melanoma of January of 2012.  He passed away this past May, but his Corvette-loving legacy will always live on thanks to his collection of 10 Corvettes being gifted to the museum for permanent display.  The Messner Collection includes a custom, race-built 1965 coupe, 1990 ZR-1, 1996 Grand Sport and, his most recent addition, a 2013 60th Anniversary Edition.  Even after being diagnosed with cancer, Messner took delivery of his final Corvette at the museum, which is when he ultimately decided to share his collection with Corvette fans past, present and future.  Next year, the museum will run a special exhibit for his cars from May 10 through September 12.

NATIONAL CORVETTE MUSEUM RECEIVES LARGEST DONATION TO DATE

Corvette enthusiast Don Messner leaves his car collection to the Museum

Corvette enthusiasts are known world-wide for their passion towards America's sports car and the lifestyle it inspires, but some people take their love for this car beyond the extra mile.  Such a person was businessman and Montoursville, PA resident, Donald L. Messner, who made arrangements for his Corvette collection to be gifted to the National Corvette Museum upon his passing.

In business Don was known for his focus, determination and ability to make things happen.  In his personal life, he was equally determined to make the most of it, enjoying a wide variety of activities including scuba diving, horses, racing, power boating, radio control airplanes, fishing, hunting and Corvettes.

Don's love for Corvettes led him on a search to acquire low mileage, rare cars that were in excellent condition.  Over the years, as his collection grew, he had a special climate-controlled garage built for them that he called The Toy Box.

In January of 2012 Don was diagnosed with melanoma.  Knowing it was incurable; he continued to enjoy life as much as he was able.  He joined the Museum for the exclusive unveiling of the 2014 Corvette Stingray at the Chevrolet Media Event in Detroit, and traveled to the National Corvette Museum to take delivery of his 2013 Corvette, as well as a visit to the Corvette Assembly Plant.  While at the Museum, he decided that it was the best place to permanently display his Corvette collection.

For his wife Marlene, she is gratified to see Don's collection going to the Museum to be enjoyed by the thousands of visitors who visit annually.

"He said he wanted to plant a seed.  He wanted others in similar situations with rare Corvettes to see the Museum as a place for them.  Most of all, he wanted to inspire future generations to work hard to buy their own Corvettes some day so that they, too, could enjoy the lifestyle that goes with owning them."

The Corvettes in the Don Messner Collection include:

• 1965 grey coupe, custom race built Corvette
• 1967 427 convertible Corvette
• 1969 convertible/hard top Corvette
• 1989 coupe Corvette
• 1990 ZR-1 Corvette
• 1996 Collector's Edition Corvette
• 1996 Grand Sport Corvette
• 2000 convertible Corvette
• 2008 Z06 Corvette
• 2013 60th Anniversary Corvette with R8C Museum Delivery

Don passed on May 22, 2013, but he has left behind a stunning collection of cars that will demonstrate his love of Corvette to others for years to come.  "When people see these cars," Marlene says, "I want them to remember Don Messner and his legacy.  He was an amazing and very generous man."

A special exhibit of these cars will be held in the Museum Exhibit Hall from May 10-September 12, 2014.

JEFF GORDON'S SS PERFORMANCE SEDAN CONCEPT UNLEASHES CAR'S POTENTIAL

By Damon Lowney, Autoblog.com - Compared to the stock Chevrolet SS sports sedan, Jeff Gordon's version looks much meaner (in a good way).  Somehow it comes off as more butch than the upgrades would suggest, almost as if it has a wide-body kit.  But Chevy says that the exterior upgrades are limited to a satin-red exterior, a more aggressive custom front grille, a carbon-fibre rear spoiler and custom-finished 20-inch wheels.  Of course, it's been lowered, which not only enhances the handling, but also its stance.

This SS is equipped with high-performance brakes, Chevy says, and a Borla performance exhaust system helps the engine exhale more freely.  Perforated suede seat inserts, embroidered head rests, a flat-bottom steering wheel and a Chevrolet Accessories pedal kit round out the package.  Everything else remains unchanged, including the LS3 6.2-litre V8, which pumps out 415 horsepower and 415 pound-feet of torque through a six-speed automatic transmission with TAPSHift manual control.  This leads us to one question: where's the full-manual transmission?

PURE VISION DESIGN TT CAMARO HAS 1,400 REASONS TO WANT IT

By Brandon Turkus, Autoblog.com - We've talked about Pure Vision Design before, a California-based company that made waves at last year's SEMA show with it sMartini-liveried, Indy-car-powered Ford Mustang.  That same car later starred in a Petrolicious video we showed you just a few weeks back.  The company's latest creation is a menacing car it calls the Pure Vision Design TT Camaro.  Based on a 1972 model, this car shares the Martini Mustang's clean styling and obsession with details.

Unlike the Mustang, which draws its power from a mid-60s Lotus-Ford Indycar engine, the "TT" in this Camaro's name implies something far more potent.  The Nelson Racing Engines 427-cubic-inch V8 has been fitted with a pair of turbochargers, with a claimed output of 1,400 horsepower.  That's almost 1,000 more than the Martini Mustang.

A six-speed Magnum transmission dispatches that power to the ground, while Pirelli PZero tires are tasked with (somehow) trying to grip the road.  Baer brakes hide behind those HRE rims, while JRI coilovers and HyperTech springs bless the Camaro with some degree of competency in the bends.

Being a Pure Vision car, this Camaro is absolutely striking.  Borrowing the Tungsten paint and Bitter Chocolate leather from Aston Martin, there's a sense that despite its tire-incinerating power, the TT Camaro is more than just a monster engine in a tin can.

CHEVROLET UNVEILS ITS SEMA LINEUP

By Damon Lowney, Autoblog.com - Hype surrounding this year's Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) show next month started months ago, and automakers and aftermarket companies alike have been previewing the vehicles that attendees will be able to see on the show floor.  Chevrolet can now officially be added to that list, as it recently announced seven "performance-oriented concepts" its bringing to the show.

Three Sonic concepts will bow.  The Chevrolet Performance Sonic RS is faster and handles and stops better than the stock car.  A cold-air intake and high-flow exhaust system gives it a bit more power, a track-tuned suspension lowers the car, which rides on 18-inch wheels, and endows it with better handling, and the Wilwood front brake calipers improve braking performance.  Visual enhancements round out the package.

 

The Personalization Sonic is an exercise in how Chevy can accessorize.

The Ricky Carmichael All-Activity Sonic has all of the upgrades of the Sonic RS, but adds turbocharger upgrades to increase its output.  The other enhancements are mostly cosmetic, such as boardshort material used for the seat inserts, but it also gets an upgraded sound system and Thule roof rack. 

The Personalization Sonic is an exercise in how Chevy can accessorize the little hatch.  It will start out as a somewhat unassuming Sonic with some cosmetic upgrades and a Kicker 200-Watt amp and 200-Watt powered subwoofer.  But over the course of the show, it will receive performance upgrades including a Borla exhaust system, the aforementioned sport suspension and Wilwood brakes, and an 18-inch wheel-and-tire package.

The Spark EV concept has been advertised as a budget car with smile-inducing performance (hey, with 400 pound-feet of torque, it has more torque than a certain Italian exotic, the Ferrari 458 Italia), but Chevy intends to up the ante with the Spark EV Tech Performance.  It builds on the stock car's performance with a "unique power-delivery algorithm that enhances acceleration.  "Stronger axles are equipped to cope with the high amount of torque, which is put to the ground through tires wrapped around billet aluminum wheels.

Rounding out Chevy's showing are the Urban Cool Impala concept, Malibu LTZ concept and Personalization Cruze Diesel concept.  The Impala concept gets custom-painted grille accents and "performance-style" ground effects and 20-inch wheels in the same color as the grille accents.  The Malibu concept is equipped with performance-style ground effects, too, and 19-inch wheels, though it also gets a cold-air intake and a Borla exhaust system.  The Personalization Cruze Diesel has a ground-effects package by 3dCarbon and revised front fascia and chin spoiler; a Kicker sound system and ambient lighting spruce up the interior.

Chevrolet Previews Performance-Oriented SEMA Concepts

DETROIT - Chevrolet today previewed several performance-oriented concepts of some of the brand's most popular passenger cars, including the Sonic and all-new Impala.  The cars will debut at the SEMA Show, Nov. 5-8, in Las Vegas.  It's the world's largest convention of automotive aftermarket parts and accessories.

Chevrolet also showed a personalized version of the Malibu, which features new and enhanced technologies for 2014 that improve efficiency and personal connectivity.  Stop/start engine technology contributes to 14-percent greater estimated city fuel economy (25 mpg), and new Siri with Eyes Free Mode and Text-to-Voice features allow hands-free texting via the available MyLink system.

"Chevrolet's 2014 passenger car lineup is the strongest and most competitive in the brand's history, offering customers a wide range of great-looking, great-driving and well-connected choices," said Chris Perry, vice president, Chevrolet marketing.  "A five-year plan to completely remake Chevy's car lineup is resonating with customers, who are finding value in the performance, quality and technologies that complement their lifestyles."

The SEMA concepts feature accessories designed to allow personalization while maintaining excellent refinement and ride characteristics.  General Motors' engineers developed most of the accessories shown on the concept vehicles.  Some of the accessories are available from Chevrolet dealers.  Others are being evaluated for production.

The enhancements are designed, engineered, tested and backed by Chevrolet to be installed by a Chevrolet dealer, which maintains the vehicle warranty - a claim aftermarket manufacturers cannot make.

A pair of "super" Sonics leads the charge into SEMA, each packing enhancements for their respective 1.4L turbo engines, along with suspension, exterior and interior accessories - and distinctive color-and-graphic packages.

Chevrolet Performance Sonic RS concept

This performance-oriented Sonic RS concept draws on the legacy of Chevrolet's high-performance vehicles yet reimagined for a new generation.  It features engine performance, suspension/brakes and appearance upgrades developed by Chevrolet Performance engineers and designed to be installed by Chevrolet dealers.

• A Stage Kit, cold-air induction and a high-flow exhaust system allow the 1.4L turbo engine to produce more power for a more exciting driving experience
• The engine enhancements are complemented by a track-tuned suspension system and higher-performance brake upgrade kit, featuring Wilwood front calipers
• The suspension kit lowers the ride height for a sportier stance
• Chevrolet Performance 18-inch, split-five-spoke wheels complement the lowered look with aggressive style
• Lemon Peel Yellow exterior with blue graphics; tinted headlamps and fog lamps; blue-accented window moldings and rear hatch trim
• Additional exterior accessories, including color-tinted grille trim, headlamp rings and mirror caps are available from Chevrolet dealers and complement custom graphics and other accents that can be easily duplicated by creative owners
• Re-trimmed seats in black leather, with Lark Yellow contrast stitching

Ricky Carmichael All-Activity Sonic concept

The All-Activity Sonic concept returns for the 2013 SEMA Show - this time, it adds something the American Motorcycle Association champion, X-Games gold medalist and NASCAR racer Ricky Carmichael can truly appreciate: An all-new performance package with parts from Chevrolet Performance.  Highlights include:

• Chevrolet Performance 1.4L Turbo Stage Kit with high-flow exhaust
• Chevrolet Performance cold-air induction
• Chevrolet Performance suspension kit with lowered ride height
• Chevrolet Performance brake package with Wilwood front calipers
• Chevrolet Performance 18-inch wheel-and-tire package featuring custom gloss black with green lip

The exterior is painted satin black that is pearlized with blue, along with custom graphics.  The Sonic's body is accented with a concept rear wing spoiler, smoked lamp housings, ground effects package and a unique grille.  It also wears a THULE roof rack.

Inside, FOX Racing boardshort material is used on the seat inserts, which complements dark green and black leather instrument panel trim and door trim with lime green piping.  A matching, green/black-trimmed flat-bottom steering wheel continues the theme.  Additional interior features include an upgraded sound system, a Chevrolet Accessories pedal kit and a custom aluminum shift knob.

Personalization Sonic concept

Equipped with several performance enhancements, this Victory Red concept represents an undeniably fun take on Sonic - with a larger emphasis on personalization.  Highlights include:

• Body-color door handles with chrome stripe
• Chrome liftgate and mirror cap trim
• Chevrolet Accessory exterior graphics package
• Chevrolet Accessory door sill plates and all-weather floor mats
• Chevrolet Accessory footwell lighting package and pedal covers
• Kicker 200-Watt DSP amp with 200-Watt powered subwoofer (also available with Chevrolet MyLink).

Some exterior details will be changed during the SEMA Show, giving the car a different appearance throughout the weeklong convention.  It also features:

• Borla performance exhaust
• Chevrolet Performance suspension kit (with lowered ride height)
• Chevrolet Performance brake package with Wilwood front calipers
• Chevrolet Performance 18-inch wheel-and-tire package
• Spark EV Tech Performance concept

A pure-electric urban mini-car designed for fun driving, easy ownership and head-turning style, the Spark EV uses no gasoline, but its GM-built motor and drive unit deliver 400 lb-ft of instant torque - more than the classic 1969 Camaro SS muscle car with a 350 V-8 - for exhilarating acceleration.  It can go from 0 to 60 mph in 7.5 seconds.

The Tech Performance concept builds on Spark EV's performance with a unique power-delivery algorithm that enhances acceleration.  Stronger axles support the greater power - helping transform this electric mini car into a mini-muscle car.  Additional features:

• Custom exterior color and graphics, a unique backlit Chevrolet "bowtie" emblem in the grille and performance billet aluminum wheels
• Chevrolet Accessory sill plates, floor mats and pedal covers
• Body-color trim plates and green stitching on the shifter boot and steering wheel
• A military-style flip-up "activation switch" on the instrument panel adds a fun, high-performance-oriented touch of style to this plug-in performer
• Lightweight features that enhance performance

Urban Cool Impala concept

All-new for 2014, the Impala's aggressive good looks contributed to a 64-perent rise in retail sales in September.  The Urban Cool concept builds on the Impala LTZ with custom-painted grille accents, Chevrolet Accessories concept ground effects and Chevrolet Accessories concept 20-inch wheels painted to match the grille accents.

A lowered stance further accents the sporty style while the LTZ's high-intensity discharge headlamps and light-emitting diode, or LED, daytime running lamps lend a more sophisticated appearance.  Inside, the trim is painted high-gloss piano black and anodized low-gloss black, contrasting with Sky Cool Gray leather-trimmed seats that also feature perforated leather inserts and orange stitching.

The Urban Cool concept rocks with the Impala's available 11-speaker Bose Centerpoint Surround Sound System, which connects to the Chevrolet MyLink system via an eight-inch-diagonal color touch screen.

Malibu LTZ concept

With a raft of technology, comfort and refinement enhancements, as well as a new front-end design, the 2014 Malibu takes on one of the industry's most competitive segments with greater roominess, greater efficiency and greater connectivity.  The Malibu LTZ SEMA concept delivers greater style, too, with performance-style ground effects and Chevrolet Accessories 19-inch wheels with a Sterling Silver finish.  A Borla exhaust system lends a throatier note to the 259-hp, 2.0L turbocharged engine.  A concept Stage Kit and cold-air induction system support greater performance, too, from an engine that already delivers 295 lb-ft of torque, the most in its class.

Personalization Cruze Diesel concept

A distinctive ground effects package by 3dCarbon, as well as an updated front fascia and chin spoiler give this Cruze Diesel concept a fresh, athletic aesthetic that supports its 258 lb-ft of torque (35 Nm) - and 0-60 capability of 8.6 seconds.  Inside, the sound system is upgraded with Kicker Audio components and an ambient lighting package has been added.  With its 2.0L clean turbo-diesel engine, the Cruze Diesel offers EPA-estimated 46 mpg on the highway - better than any non-hybrid or gasoline-powered passenger car in America.  It can travel 717 miles on a single tank, or about 10 hours of highway driving.