2014 CHEVROLET CRUZE CLEAN TURBO DIESEL COMING TO CANADA

By General Motors Canada, Oshawa - Chevrolet is entering the Canadian and U.S. diesel car markets this summer with a 2.0L turbo-diesel version of its hottest-selling sedan, the Cruze, featuring the cleanest diesel passenger car engine General Motors has ever produced.  Clean diesels generate at least 90 percent less Nitrogen Oxide (NOx) and particulate emissions when compared to previous-generation diesels.

Built in Lordstown, Ohio, the 2014 Cruze Clean Turbo Diesel delivers a combination of segment-leading features and efficiency.  Based on GM testing, the Cruze Clean Turbo Diesel is expected to get as low as 4.6 L/100 km highway fuel consumption with spirited performance and the durability diesel owners value around the globe.

"The Cruze clean turbo diesel is the perfect addition to an already extensive Chevrolet product portfolio here in Canada," said Marc Comeau, vice president of sales, service & marketing for Chevrolet in Canada.  "These new products and technologies meet the diverse needs of our customers from coast-to-coast, whether it's driving across town gas free in a Chevy Volt or cross-country in a clean turbo diesel."

The compact sedan's new 2.0L turbo-diesel engine produces an estimated 148 horsepower (110 kW) and 258 lb.-ft torque (350 Nm) with 0-96 km/h performance of 8.6 seconds, which is better than the Volkswagen Jetta TDI automatic and competitive with German diesel cars that dominate the North American market.

Cruze Clean Turbo Diesel's emissions will meet U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) stringent Tier 2 Bin 5 emissions standards.

"Our global engineering expertise was leveraged to develop a world-class, low-emissions engine to offer Canadian and U.S. customers a car that's both fun to drive and practical at the pump," said Comeau.  "The Cruze Clean Turbo Diesel is well positioned here in Canada and plays an important role in Chevrolet's four-cylinder lineup, and we believe its performance, torque and fuel efficiency will quickly win over diesel devotees and compact car buyers."

With a starting price at $24,945 plus a $1,550 destination charge (excludes tax, title, license, and dealer fees) Cruze Clean Turbo Diesel comes with a six-speed automatic transmission, four-wheel antilock disc brakes, 3.20 final drive ratio, 140-amp alternator, 800-cold-cranking-amps battery, 17-inch alloy wheels, ultra-low-rolling resistance all-season tires, rear spoiler, Aero Performance Package and leather-appointed seating.

Other standard features include Chevrolet's infotainment system MyLink, and a five-year/160,000-kilometre powertrain warranty.

"Cruze Clean Turbo Diesel is the most sophisticated passenger car diesel engine GM has ever produced," said Jens Wartha, GM global program manager and chief engineer for the Cruze's diesel engine.  "We merged European diesel expertise with the real world driving preferences of North American consumers."

GM has sold nearly two million Chevrolet Cruze models globally since it was launched in mid-2010.  GM produced more than half a million small diesel-engine cars across Europe, Asia, Africa and South America last year, including Cruze.  In Europe, approximately 40 percent of Cruze models are diesel-powered.

Diesel details

Cruze's 2.0L turbo-diesel is based on proven architecture already used in European models.  Collaborating with Italian and German engineering groups, GM's diesel experts in the United States adapted the engine to accommodate more stringent diesel emission standards and a wider range of driving conditions -- including colder climates and higher altitudes -- for the United States and Canada.

"This Cruze Clean Turbo Diesel represents a new era in diesel performance for North American cars," said Jens Wartha, GM chief engineer.  "We've adapted a proven engine from Europe, the world's diesel capital, and married it with the emissions-reducing technology that was perfected in the United States and Canada.  It's a great example of how Chevrolet's global resources work harmoniously to produce the right product at the right time and for the right market."

Cruze's new 2.0L turbo-diesel delivers an estimated 148 horsepower (110 kW) and 258 lb.-ft. of torque (350 Nm).  Peak torque is achieved at a low 2,000 rpm for a sustained feeling of power on demand at almost all speeds -- particularly when passing or entering a freeway onramp.  The engine has an overboost feature capable of increasing torque to an estimated 280 lb.-ft. (380 Nm), for stronger acceleration periods of about 10 seconds.

"With the benefit of continuous refinement in other markets, the 2.0L turbo-diesel comes to the United States and Canada with performance that will impress," said Mike Siegrist, assistant chief engineer.  "It is powerful, efficient and clean.  It will change perceptions of what a diesel car can be, while giving customers another fuel efficient choice in the Cruze lineup."

Cruze models in the United States and Canada offer a 1.4L turbo, a 1.4L Eco model and 1.8L naturally aspirated engine.

The 2.0L turbo-diesel engine provides improved fuel efficiency than a comparably sized gasoline engine through greater thermal efficiency, a higher compression ratio and an unthrottled combustion process.  It features an iron cyclinder block and a forged steel crankshaft, each designed to stand up to the greater cylinder pressures commensurate with a turbo-diesel engine.

A lightweight aluminum cylinder head and aluminum intake manifold contribute to the engine's comparatively low weight of 408 pounds (185 kg), helping the Cruze Clean Turbo Diesel deliver a balanced ride with outstanding handling characteristics.  Additional highlights include:

- Dual overhead camshafts with four valves per cylinder and maintenance-free hydraulic lifters with low-friction roller-finger followers

- Quiet belt-driven cams/valvetrain with high-strength belt material and tensioner rated for 100,000 miles

- Central direct injection, with the injector positioned in the middle of the cylinder, with the bowl in the piston serving as the combustion chamber.  This enables a high 16.5:1 compression ratio that enhances power and combustion efficiency

- Variable-swirl intake manifold design, which optimizes air charge mixture motion in the cylinders for a more-efficient combustion that enhances performance and reduces emissions

- Common-rail fuel system with Piezo fuel injectors that create multiple injections per combustion for greater performance, combustion efficiency and quietness

- Variable-nozzle turbocharger that broadens the engine's torque curve, particularly at low rpm, and supports greater high-rpm horsepower.  It is mounted close to the exhaust outlet of the engine for quicker "spool up" of the turbine and faster "light off" of the exhaust catalyst

- Intercooling system produces a cooler, denser air charge for greater power

- Piston oil jets that help reduce friction and optimize piston temperature for greater performance and efficiency

- Turbocharger bearings are oil-lubricated and cooled via an oil cooler

- Variable-displacement oil pump helps save fuel by optimizing the oil pressure, which reduces friction

- Vacuum pump designed for lower engine friction

- Ceramic glow plugs, which provide greater cold-start performance over conventional metal glow plugs (an engine oil heater is offered for cold climates)

- B20 bio-diesel compatibility

Quiet, smooth performance is enabled by a number of features on and around the engine.  There are also sound-absorbing features added to the Cruze, specific to the diesel model, including a unique dash mat, hood blanket and more.

A precise exhaust gas recirculation control system features a high-capacity cooler and bypass feature that enable the engine to meet United States and Canada's tough diesel emissions regulations.  There is also an exhaust after-treatment system is similar to what is used on Chevrolet's heavy-duty trucks and vans equipped with the Duramax diesel, including a diesel particulate filter and urea injection, that helps make the 2.0L the cleanest diesel passenger car engine ever from GM.

An approximately 4.5-gallon (17 liters) tank in the Cruze Clean Turbo Diesel holds enough diesel emissions fluid to provide at least 16,000 kilometres (10,000 miles) of driving between refills.  The system is also designed for servicing to coincide with oil changes, for greater convenience.

CHEVY'S OWN CONTEST POINTS TO C7 CORVETTE STINGRAY PRICING

By Jeffrey N. Ross, Autoblog.com - As much attention as the 2014 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray has attracted since its debut back in January, we still have no idea how much the car will cost.  Thanks to Chevy's "Race to Win" Corvette contest in the U.S., we finally have a pricing estimate of sorts for the hot new coupe.

In addition to winning a trip for two to France and tickets to the 24 Hours of Le Mans, the grand prize winner will also become the proud owner of a C7 Corvette, which has an "approximate retail value" of US$71,860 south of the border.  While this would be quite a step up from the US$49,600 base MSRP of the 2013 'Vette, keep in mind that this may also include options and taxes associated with the car.  If this is a leaked figure from GM for US market Corvette pricing we can interpolate that data to mean that Canadians will be paying a little more, as usual, and we'll probably be on the hook for mid to high $70K for a well optioned Corvette when Canadian pricing is released.  Or, this US contest may just be some sort of estimate.

Regardless of how much the car costs, this sounds like an awesome contest -- unfortunately, it's open to U.S. citizens only.  If you happen to have dual citizenship or are married to an American, or have any friends or family who are American, forward them this link for their chance to win.  Who knows, they may bring you along for the 24 hour Le Mans race in France ...

CHEVY OFFERING CAMARO ROLLING CHASSIS FOR DO-IT-YOURSELF DRAG RACERS

By Jeffrey N. Ross, Autoblog.com - There sure has been plenty of drag racing machinery to report about lately from the Chevrolet COPO Camaro to the Ford Mustang Cobra Jet, but General Motors has another quarter-mile racer up its sleeve with a new rolling chassis version of the Camaro.  While the COPO is a turn-key racecar with a price tag pushing six figures, Chevrolet announced that it is also going to start offering a factory-built Camaro drag car similar to the COPO but stripped of most of the drivetrain components.

With a starting price of US$55,000, the Camaro rolling chassis will feature a complete body, race-ready interior including a rollcage, a solid rear axle (without the gearing), racing wheels and Hoosier drag tires, and it will be built at the same Detroit area facility where the COPO Camaro is assembled using mostly production parts.  The owner will need to provide an engine (and wiring harness), transmission, driveshaft and rear differential gears (the "third member"), which is all available through the Chevrolet Racing parts catalog.

Chevy will build a limited number of the Camaro rolling chassis, but it isn't clear if production will be as limited as the COPO Camaro's 69-unit run.Check out the official press release.

CHEVROLET PERFORMANCE OFFERS CAMARO ROLLING CHASSIS

DETROIT -- Chevrolet will produce a limited number of Camaro NHRA-certified rolling chassis designed for drag racing that provides racers with a professionally assembled, painted body and chassis ready to be finished.  Consumers add their engine, transmission and other drivetrain components.

The rolling chassis go on sale Thursday, March 28, at noon EST and will be priced at US$55,000.  Each specially numbered chassis is assembled by hand at the same facility that constructs Chevrolet's COPO Camaro production race cars.

"This is a great opportunity to buy a factory-built foundation for a competitive Camaro race car, saving racers the time of building their own from the ground up and offering them the opportunity to compete with a piece of Chevrolet history, because we're only going to build a few of them," said Jim Campbell, General Motors U.S. Vice President of Performance Vehicles and Motorsports.  "Add your powertrain assembly and you've got a race car that's ready to tackle the drag strip."

Many of the components required to complete the transformation into a full race car, including crate engines, racing engine components, electronics -- controllers and harnesses -- and more, are available direct from Chevrolet Performance.  The catalog is online at chevroletperformance.com.

"Finishing off your race car with authentic Chevrolet Performance parts helps make it all-Chevy, with uncompromising performance and confidence-inspiring durability," said Campbell.  "All of our hardcore racing parts have been designed and tested to standards unmatched in the aftermarket."

Ordering information and chassis detailsCustomers will call 1-800-306-3005 to order a Camaro rolling chassis.  The call center will send purchase certificates for the limited number of rolling chassis to be constructed, and customers will take the certificates to the Chevrolet dealerships of their choice to complete the sale.

The completed rolling chassis requires customer pickup in the Detroit area.  Each will be serialized, but will not have a Vehicle Identification Number, so they cannot be titled or licensed for road use.

Each rolling chassis is constructed with hardware from the Oshawa assembly plant that manufactures regular-production Camaros.  Each is fitted with an NHRA-approved roll cage and other safety equipment, along with NHRA-approved racing chassis and suspension components, including brakes and solid rear axle -- minus the third member.  Bogart racing wheels mounted on Hoosier tires are also included.

All will come in Summit White, with a production Camaro hood and SS grille, production window glass, headlamps, tail lamps and more.  Inside, racing seats, a production-style instrument panel, steering wheel, racing switch panel, door panels, headliner and black carpeting are included.  Basic body and chassis wiring is built into the rolling chassis, but it does not come with engine harnesses or a battery.

Customers will need to add basic equipment to complete the assembly, including:

- Engine and air inlet system
- Engine mounts
- Engine controller and wire harness
- Exhaust headers
- Coolant hoses ( a radiator is included)
- Transmission and shifter assembly
- Driveshaft
- Differential third member

Chevrolet Performance's entire range of high-performance and racing crate engines is available to power the rolling chassis, including the three 2013 COPO LS-family engines, which were developed for NHRA Stock Eliminator classes.  They include a 350-cubic-inch engine rated at 325 horsepower; a 396-cubic-inch engine rated at 375 horsepower, and a 427-cubic-inch engine rated at 425 horsepower (part number 17802825).  Supercharged crate engines based on the 2013 COPO Camaro program are also available, including a 327-cubic-inch engine with a 2.9L supercharger (part number 17802826) and a 327 with a 4.0L blower (part number 17802827).  The 350 and 396 engines will be available later this year.

Chevrolet Performance's new "COPO Build Book", part number 88958767, provides an overview of the factory race cars' assembly process and can be a reference manual for those who intend to complete their Camaro rolling chassis for Stock Eliminator or Super Stock drag racing.  It also provides general assembly details that can help builders complete their race car more quickly.

2014 CHEVY CAMARO REVEALED ... ON A DAYTIME TALK SHOW?



By Jeremy Korzeniewski, Autoblog.com - Listen, we like Kelly Ripa ... Kristen Chenoweth (Kelly is apparently on vacation) and Michael Strahan as much as the next auto-obsessed blogging website ... but to reveal the new 2014 Chevy Camaro on the talk show ahead of its official unveiling at the New York Auto Show strikes us as a rather strange choice.  Regardless, that's what we're dealing with -- the talk show hosts were the first people to pull the covers off the new Camaro, and you can see the results above.

Additionally, one lone low-res image was published on the talk show website, and we enlarged it, reduced noise and sharpened it as much as we could. 

We don't have any great views of the car from the screenshots that have hit the web, but from what we can tell, the changes made to the Camaro for 2014 are more noticeable than we had initially thought.  For instance, the front fascia is completely new, with a new grille insert that looks more condensed than before.  The old mail-slot opening in the center of the face has been removed on the SS model, which is an update we're okay with but is likely to be controversial.

The biggest change to the SS model is the new hood with what appears to be a functional heat extractor.  The bright red Camaro seen on the talk show doesn't have any stripes, and we're curious to see how Chevy deals with these classic additions on SS models with this new hood.  Out back, we note a new rear spoiler along with taillamps that lose some of the past model's retro vibe in favour of a more modern, though still squared-off, look.

According to the show's website, the 2014 Camaro's powertrain options will carry over from 2013, with a 323-horsepower V6 and a 426-hp V8, along with the 580-horse supercharged ZL1. 

2014 CHEVROLET SS: THE AMERICAN FORBIDDEN FRUIT CANADIANS MAY NEVER TASTE

By Jonathon Ramsey, Autoblog.com - Not including the women and men who built it, the 2014 Chevrolet SS has only been seen in person by a small number of people -- fewer humans than would fill the gynmasium at a high school volleyball game.  Not including the men and women who built it, no one has driven it.  Even so, it is already saddled with three controversies, the way it looks, the way it shifts and the fact it won't be found on Canadian roads -- unless SS owning Americans cross the bridge or tunnel to flame our pangs of jealousy.

We, Canadians, had our taste of the Chevy SS in the form of its predecessor, the Pontiac G8.  Of course, Pontiac is now defunct and Chevy has no plans to bring the SS to our great white north, so this article documents a rare American forbidden fruit -- we're used to this treatment from European marques, but seldom do we envy drivers south of the border.

Read below to see what Canadians are missing ...

First to the topic of shifting.  Did we love the last Americanized Holden, the awesomely sportsome Pontiac G8 GXP, and its six-speed manual?  Of course.  Do we wish the SS came with a six-speed manual?  Of course.  But we'd like a toboggan to come with a manual transmission.  We'd put a manual transmission on a weasel if we could because we're just wire that way; if it moves, it should come with a stick and a clutch.  Or at least the option.

Let's climb down off the ledge, though.  We haven't driven the SS and we have no idea how good (or poor) the automatic is.  And the Hobson's Choice in transmissions when it comes to sport sedans like the BMW M5, Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG and Jaguar XFR-S, and oh yeah, cars-that-really-should-have-manuals like the Audi R8 and Nissan GT-R and Porsche 918 and every single Lamborghini and Ferrari, for instance, hasn't stopped us from enjoying what is clearly the gruesome, dual-clutched demise of Western automotive civilization.  Because in spite of our ululations at the dying of the six-speed light, we understand.

All we're saying is sure, we're disappointed, but let's drive it first -- then we'll find out if this is something more than a philosophical tragedy.  When we asked what were the chances of a manual we were thrown the bones of "it's a possibility down the line," and that's all we need to go to Optimism Level: Lloyd.

To that other, bigger controversy: the way it looks -- it seems many of you were expecting more, or at least more different.  However, as far back as 2009 it was acknowledged that the VF Holden Commodore would be an overhaul of the VE series, and mainly under the skin at that.  There was neither the money nor the business case to create a brand new car.  If there is an issue with the looks of the SS, it's our opinion that we might have discovered 90 per cent of the cure in the sedan's trunk.

Ever since it became clear that Pontiac had a permanent dinner date with Hades, people began suggesting -- strongly -- that General Motors keep the G8 coming but as a Chevrolet.  Now that it's here, true, five years has passed -- there's a vocal group saying.  "Well, that's not exactly what we meant."  

AMELIA ISLAND 2013: CHEVROLET CORVETTE STING RAY FROM CONCEPTS TO SPLIT WINDOWS

By Autoblog.com - While this year marks 60 years of the Chevrolet Corvette, the 2013 Amelia Island Concours d'Elegance focused on one of the coupe's most sought after models, the 1963 Sting Ray.  General Motors design boss Ed Welburn was on hand to show off the all-new C7 Corvette, but even the hard-edged styling of the 2014 Stingray couldn't take away from the beautiful 1963 models sitting out on the field.

In addition to the original Sting Ray and the 1959 Sting Ray Concept, some of the other classic 'Vettes included "Big Tank" racecars, an interesting cutaway coupe, a right-hand-drive Z06 and the attention-grabbing 1963 Corvette Rondine by Pininfarina.  Another impressive Corvette was the 1964 Corvette XP-819 rear-engine prototype.  Owner Mike Yager had the car finished as a driving chassis for this year's show, but promises the car will be back to its original glory in time for next year's event.

CAN A FLEET QUEEN BECOME A FULLSIZE KING?

By Jeffrey N. Ross, Autoblog.com - On paper, the Chevrolet Impala is a pretty strong seller, but it only takes one trip to practically any rental car agency to discover where the majority of those sales have come from.  In fact, General Motors told us that a full 70 per cent of Impala sales last year went to fleet companies for things like rental cars and government vehicles.  Logic tells us that this is neither good for resale values no name equity, so Chevrolet is getting ready to roll out an all-new Impala with improved comfort, styling and technology, hoping to turn the tables on its retail-to-fleet ratio.

Chevrolet's sedans have come on quite strong in the last few months with the introduction of the Cruze diesel and the American-only SS sedan, but while these will likely be low-volume sellers, there's more pressure for the new Impala to perform well as GM looks to slash fleet sales and compete with the wide variety of full-size sub-luxury sedans.  Riding on a platform shared with the Buick LaCrosse and Cadillac XTS, the 2014 Impala will compete against the Hyundai Azera, Ford Taurus and Toyota Avalon on the more traditional side, while also looking to take a bite out of somewhat sportier models like the Chrysler 300/Dodge Charger twins and the Nissan Maxima.  We headed to sunny San Diego to see if this totally new Impala can stand on its own without the assistance of fleet companies and rental agencies.

Chevy expects the mid-level LT trim to be the volume seller

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

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

It will be interesting to see what the Impala's base interior looks like

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

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

Headroom and legroom have stretched by a remarkable 89mm and 56mm

More than just a stylish environment, the new Impala provides plenty of space for five occupants.  Compared to the departing model, the 2014 Impala has had its headroom and legroom stretched by a remarkable 89mm (3.5 inches) and 56mm (2.2 inches), respectively, giving this Chevrolet interior dimensions that are almost identical to the Impala's fancier cousin, the Cadillac XTS.  Including a GM representative, our tester spent the entire day with three occupants, which provided plenty of rear-seat time.  At over six feet tall, your author had no problem with legroom and was even able to cross legged.  The only downsides of riding in the rear are foldable headrests that are positioned too far back to be entirely useful and the center armrest, which is perfectly cushioned toward the rear but has an uncomfortably hard plastic cup holder at the leading edge.

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

We drove the car with the engine that customers will see first, the 3.6-litre V6

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

Eventually, the 2014 Impala will offer a base 2.5-litre inline four-cylinder engine as well as a 2.4-litre eAssist mild hybrid model, but for this test, we drove the car with the engine that customers will see first, the 3.6-litre V6.  This direct-injected engine is essentially the only part carried-over from the 2013 Impala, but its output has been tweaked ever so slightly, raising horsepower and torque to 305 hp and 264 pound-feet (up from 300 hp and 262 lb-ft).  Unlike the closely related XTS, the Impala will not offer all-wheel drive.  Instead, the front wheels are powered through a six-speed automatic transmission.  Weighing in at 1,724 kg (3,800 pounds), the Impala V6 should have a good balance of fuel economy with estimates of 12.4L/100km (19 mpg) in the city and 8.1L/100km (29 mpg) on the highway.  GM claims it will take just 6.8 seconds to reach 60 mph (96 km/h).

It is just plain impressive how library quiet the interior is

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

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

The new Impala has not only grown in size, but also in price

With advanced features like this, the new Impala has not only grown in size, but also in price.  The new Impala is expected to start at a few thousand bucks more than where the 2013 model started, the 2014 Impala has a base MSRP of US$27,750 in LS trim (Canadian pricing yet to be announced), but this model won't be available until later in the year.  In a reverse of how the 2013 Malibu was launched (with just the hybrid Eco model available initially), Chevrolet will introduce the new Impala based on expected volume, which means the V6 will launch first in LT and LTZ trims.

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

It isn't clear which (if any) vehicle will replace the Impala for fleet customers in 2015, but the all-new Impala could very well help Chevrolet build its strongest, most competitive retail sedan lineup ever.

CORVETTE STRINGRAY SHOOTING BRAKE UNDER CONSTRUCTION BY CALLAWAY

By Zach Bowman, Autoblog.com - Callaway has released a few renderings of a design study for a shooting brake version of the C7 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray.  The company says it wants to create a long-roof version of Chevy's sports car to offer buyers more interior room and a vehicle with "unique style".  The company says it will use structural carbon fiber for the new body bits, which suggests the conversion shouldn't add too much more weight to the Corvette.  Along with a few mechanical tweaks, the Callaway Corvette Stingray AeroWagon could breeze past the 320 kilometre per hour barrier.

Provided that they get enough interest, Callaway estimates they will be able to effect the changes on the Chevrolet for around US$15,000, and says the conversion work should be available through its network of dealers.  You can check out the brief press release below for more information, or head over to the Callaway site to plunk down a deposit -- but before you do, we want to know ... do you find this C7 wagon interesting? 

2014 CALLAWAY AEROWAGON CONCEPT
SANTA ANA, CALIFORNIA March 14, 2013 - Callaway Cars released renderings today of the company's design study for a C7 Corvette-based shooting brake concept.  Callaway plans to manufacture the body package providing an openable hatch that would result in a unique style and increased interior space, positioning the Corvette in the elite class of two door shooting brakes.

Callaway's AeroWagon body will be manufactured in their proprietary RTM process for structural carbon parts.  The KRTM (Kramer Resin Transfer Molding) process produces load carrying carbon parts in one swift molding step.

Fitted to the Callaway version of the C7 Corvette, the Callaway AeroWagon is projected to be a 200+ mph automobile while still returning the highest mileage rating in the supercar segment.

Based on market reaction, Callaway plans to produce the conversions coincident with the release of production C7 Corvettes this Fall.  The AeroWagon option is projected to be under $15,000 and available through Callaway Dealers nationwide.

2013 CHEVY COPO CAMARO ANNOUNCED WITH TWO NEW ENGINES AND MANUAL OPTION

By Jeffrey N. Ross, Autoblog.com - Chevrolet is following up the 2013 COPO Camaro with another limited run of the drag-strip-ready production car for 2013.  Ditching the superchargers, the 2013 COPO Camaro can only be equipped with one of three naturally aspirated V8 engines, and other new features include the option of a manual transmission, new front springs, some minor styling changes and a lower starting of US$86,000.  All cars are designed to abide by the rules of the NHRA's Stock Eliminator or Super Stock classifications, depending on which series buyers wish to enter their Chevrolet Camaro.

Returning for 2013 is the 427-cubic-inch V8 producing 425 horsepower, but the new engines include a 325-hp 350-CID V8 and a 375-hp 396-CID V8.  Buyers can select to purchase all three engines, and each will be matched with the sequence number of that car; the track-only COPO cars will not have vehicle identification numbers and can't be registered for street use.

Chevrolet is also offering unique enthusiast-specific options such as a COPO Build Book and the opportunity for owners to help assemble their car's engine at the Chevrolet Performance Build Center in Wixom, MI.

Like last year's model and the original COPO Camaro from 1969, only 69 of these cars are being built.  If you want the chance at getting your hands on one of these rare Camaros, today is the last day to make your purchase intention known (by visiting chevroletperformance.com) before a third-party company randomly selects available buyers.  Those chosen to purchase a COPO Camaro will be contacted on March 11.  General Motors says that more than 3,000 people showed interest in the 69 cars built for 2012.  More information about the new COPO Camaro is posted in the press release below.

Chevrolet Identifies Customers for NEw COPO Camaros
Two new engines, manual transmission enhance options for Chevy's factory race car

DETROIT -- Chevrolet today announced that customers for the limited run of 2013 COPO Camaro factory drag-racing cars will be identified starting Monday, March 11.  Only 69 of the cars will be constructed this year.

Racers must make their purchase intentions known by signing up on the COPO Camaro Mailing List at chevroletperformance.com by Thursday, March 7.

The starting price for the COPO Camaro is US$86,000.

"The COPO Camaro program is growing into its second year to support our customers, who have continually expressed their interest for these specialized race cars," said Jim Campbell, General Motors U.S. vice president of Performance Vehicles and Motorsports.  "The 2013 production run builds on the success of our inaugural year with new powertrain choices and enhancements that will make the cars even more competitive."

More than 3,000 hand raisers indicated a purchase interest in the 2012 COPO Camaros, when only 69 were built.

COPO stands for Central Office Production Order and was originally used by dealers in the 1960s to generate special orders, mostly for fleet vehicles.  Some racing-minded dealers used the system to create higher-performance models that weren't otherwise available, including the legendary 1969 Camaro ZL1, which featured an all-aluminum 427-cubic-inch engine developed for racing.  Sixty-nine ZL1s were built and they've since become valuable collector cars.

New powertrains
The 2013 production run will be offered with two all-new engines, as well as a new manual transmission, to make the COPO Camaro eligible for a broader range of NHRA Stock Eliminator classes.  The engine range includes three naturally aspirated choices:

350-cubic-inch engine rated at 325 horsepower
396-cubic-inch engine rated at 375 horsepower
427-cubic-inch engine rated at 425 horsepower

A high-feature fuel-injection system is standard on all COPO Camaros, with engine management directed by an all-new Holley HP EFI electronic control unit that features self-tuning fuel table strategies and data logging.  The injection system is used in conjunction with a Holley Hi-Ram intake manifold.

Driven by customer demand, the new manual transmission joins the Powerglide automatic for the COPO Camaro's transmission choices.  Rear axle gearing is optimized for each vehicle, depending on the engine and transmission.

All of the LS-family engines are built at Chevrolet's Performance Build Center, in Wixom, Mich., and the buyer can opt to participate in the engine assembly, similar to Chevrolet's Corvette Engine Build Experience and the Chevrolet Performance Build Your Own Crate Engine programs.  Customers can also select the Engine Collector's Package, which includes all three COPO racing engines serial-number-matched to the car, with one installed at the time of delivery.  Serialized engines can also be ordered separately, (i.e. only one additional engine), but will be still number-matched to the car.

Additional new and revised production features for 2013 include:

 

• A "heritage" grille and standard-production (non-HID) headlamps
• New exterior graphics choices with engine-size call-outs
• Revised interior package with custom carpet and new switch panel
• Dedicated racing wiring harness
• Revised front springs that enhance performance
• Transmission cooler integrated with radiator

Five exterior colors are offered for 2013: Black, Summit White, Victory Red, Silver Ice Metallic and Ashen Gray Metallic.

All COPO Camaros are assembled by hand starting with hardware from the Oshawa assembly plant that manufactures regular-production Camaros.  Each is fitted with an NHRA-approved roll cage and other safety equipment, along with racing chassis and suspension components -- including a unique solid rear axle system in place of a regular-production Camaro's independent rear axle.  Production equipment also includes lightweight Bogart racing wheels and Hoosier racing tires.

The purchase process
The pool of potential customers identified via the COPO Camaro Mailing List is randomized by a third-party organization and a Chevrolet representative will contact them from the Central Office, starting March 11.

The Central Office representative confirms the purchase intent and works with the customer to specify the powertrain, exterior color and graphics and other options.  The customer will also indicate a preferred Chevrolet dealership to complete the sale.  After that, a COPO purchase certificate is sent to the customer, who will take it to his or her preferred dealer to officially place the order for the car.

Production is scheduled to begin in April, with deliveries starting in early summer.  Customers must take delivery of the car in the Detroit area, where the COPO Camaros are built.

Each COPO Camaro features a sequenced build serial number matched to the engine, but is sold without a Vehicle Identification Number and cannot be registered for highway use.

Parts and assembly guide
Many of the fundamental components used to assemble the COPO Camaros -- including all of the hand-assembled racing engines -- are available from Chevrolet Performance.  They are outlined in a special COPO section of the 2013 Chevrolet Performance catalog, which is available from Chevrolet dealers or by ordering online at chevroletperformance.com.

The COPO parts must be ordered and delivered through Chevrolet detailers and other authorized retailers.  Additionally, customers can participate in Chevrolet Performance's Build Your Own COPO Engine program when purchasing one of the COPO racing engines (at an extra cost), allowing them to visit Chevy's Performance Build Center to help assemble the engine they purchased.

The COPO parts must be ordered and delivered through Chevrolet detailers and other authorized retailers.  Additionally, customers can participate in Chevrolet Performance's Build Your Own COPO Engine program when purchasing one of the COPO racing engines (at an extra cost), allowing them to visit Chevy's Performance Build Center to help assemble the engine they purchased.

Also available from Chevrolet Performance is the "COPO Build Book," part number 88958767, which provides an overview of the cars' assembly process for those that want to build their own Chevrolet Stock Eliminator or Super Stock race car.

REFRESHED 2014 CHEVY CAMARO CONFIRMED FOR NEW YORK DEBUT

 

By Jeffrey N. Ross, Autoblog.com - We've already seen leaked specs and potential spy shots, but the refreshed 2014 Chevrolet Camaro will make its official debut at the New York Auto Show in a few weeks.

Besides a tweaked exterior and the possibility of a high-output LS7 under the hood, we really don't know much else about the 2014 Camaro, but here's to hoping for an improved interior, too.

In addition to the refreshed Camaro, Chevrolet will also be showing off the recently introduced Chevrolet SS making its debut on the auto show circuit, and we'll also get our first look at the C7 Corvette coupe and convertible side-by-side.

General Motors will round out its major introductions with the redesigned 2014 Cadillac CTS and the updated 2014 Buick LaCrosse and 2014 Regal.  Read the press release below.
Chevrolet to Showcase Performance at NYIAS
GM Launching Five Global Debuts, One North American at 2013 Show

Corvette Convertible Makes its North American Debut in NY

Chevrolet will showcase a new lineup of 2014 performance cars, including the all-new Corvette Stingray coupe and convertible, all-new SS performance sedan and refreshed Camaro.

"Chevrolet customers have validated our performance credentials, and we're going to give them even more reasons to be enthused," said Mark Reuss, president, GM North America.

The 2014 Camaro advances the design and performance attributes that have made it the most popular sports car under $50,000 for three consecutive years, while Chevrolet's new SS is the brand's first V-8-powered, rear-drive performance sedan since 1996.  It's based on a race-proven global platform and powered by a 6.2L V-8 rated at an estimated 415 hp.

The all-new Corvette Stingray coupe and convertible roll into the Big Apple 60 years after the Corvette made its public debut in New York City.  The seventh generation of the iconic sports car will be the most powerful standard Corvette ever, with an estimated 450 hp.

Along with the new Chevys, GM is launching two new Buicks and a Cadillac at the upcoming New York International Auto Show for a total of five global debuts and one North American intro.

Visitors of this year's Show will be treated to a peek at more than 50 other newly revealed cars, trucks and concepts that the world's top automakers have to offer from America's first and highest-attended auto show.

GM'S REN CENTRE HEADQUARTERS GOING DARK(ER) AT NIGHT

By Michael Harley, Autoblog.com - Some estimate that nearly half a billion birds meet their untimely fate each year when they crash into the side of a towering skyscraper, or die from exhaustion after being mesmerized into flying endless circles by the building's lights.  While removing the physical obstacles is out of the question, experts have found that dimming, or darkening the lights works miracles when it comes to sving our feathered friends (in one study, it reduced bird deaths by 80 per cent).

Detroit is located smack in the middle of a migratory bird flight path, and General Motors' Renaissance Center (a group of seven interconnected skyscrapers anchored with a 73-story hotel), poses a large obstacle to the flyers.  To help the birds complete their travel unimpeded, General Motors has encouraged its employees to turn off their office lights at night during the spring and fall migrations -- an effort that appears to be working.  "We haven't seen the bird deathes," said Sue Kelsey, GM's biodiversity manager, yet she adds, "it's prudent and responsible for us to mitigate any potential concern."

In addition to participating in the Project Safe Passage program, GM manages about 2,500 acres of wildlife habitats at more than two dozen of its global sites.  "General Motors has been an eager and committed partner of this initiative since its inception," sayd Fred Charbonneau, Detroit Audubon Society board member.

GM TO MAKE MOST CARS LTE HOTSPOTS FOR 2015

By Jeffrey N. Ross, Autoblog.com - General Motors isn't the first automaker to deliver in-car Internet access, but a proposed plan announced today could make the technology more widespread than any of its competitors have offered.  By the 2015 model year, most Chevrolet, Buick, Cadillac and GMC products in the US and Canada will offer 4G LTE mobile broadband access.  Initially, GM will just be pairing with AT&T to deliver this service, but additional carriers will be revealed in the future.

Current in-car Wi-Fi hot spots are limited to 3G, but GM says that 4G LTE is 10 times faster than 3G service and will allow for full internet access, including streaming video for entertainment as well as services like real-time traffic updates and navigation driving directions.  There is also no need for a paired smartphone with this new system, which should make it easier to use, and GM and AT&T will also be working together to develop new apps for customers.

Buyers can expect to start seeing 4G LTE in their cars starting next year, and GM is already planning to expand the service to other global markets as well.  All of the information from GM's announcement is in the press release below.

GM Announces Widest Deployment of 4G LTE Services in Vehicles
Collaboration with AT&T begins with U.S. and Canada rollout in 2014

BARCELONA -- General Motors today announced a broad global strategy to deliver a new generation of connected cars and trucks with embedded 4G LTE mobile broadband, the largest deployment in the automotive industry to date.

The first GM cars, trucks and crossovers to get 4G LTE will be most 2015 Chevrolet, Buick, GMC and Cadillac models available in 2014 in the United States and Canada delivered through AT&T.  GM will announce more carrier and supplier relationships in coming months to expand 4G LTE capabilities in markets around the globe.

With mobile data speeds up to 10 times faster than 3G technologies, increased responsiveness, and the ability to support simultaneous voice and data connections, a built-in 4G LTE connection will enable advances in a wide range of in-vehicle communications and entertainment capabilities.  Expected benefits for GM customers could include in-vehicle Wi-Fi hot spots, new infotainment options like streaming video entertainment in the back seat, real-time updates and faster application downloads.  These enhancements build on OnStar's existing portfolio of built-in connected services, first introduced in GM vehicles in 1996.

The built-in 4G LTE structure is specifically designed for in-vehicle use as it is integrated into the vehicle's electrical system and includes an external antenna to maximize coverage and connectivity.  Customers will not be required to have a smartphone to use connected services.

"In addition to allowing consumers to bring in and connect to personal mobile devices, the vehicle will also act as its own mobile device, enabling embedded vehicle capabilities," said Mary Chan, president, Global Connected Consumer, General Motors.  "Turning this vision into a reality starts with enabling fast, reliable and responsive connectivity within the vehicle.  Through this built-in 4G LTE connection we have the opportunity to reinvent the mobile experience inside a vehicle."

Over time, applications of widespread in-vehicle 4G LTE connectivity will enable vehicles to interact directly with their environment to enhance safety, efficiency and convenience for drivers and passengers.  4G LTE will make services such as real-time traffic and navigation updates possible, pulling information from the cloud.

GM and AT&T will immediately begin work to develop 4G LTE connectivity for GM vehicles in the U.S. and Canada.  AT&T's 4G LTE network is expected to reach 300 million people in the U.S. by the end of 2014, and its network performance and deployment strategy have been lauded by industry analysts and other experts.

GM and AT&T will also work together on a broad ecosystem focused on developing new communication applications to enhance the driving and riding experience.

"While our 4G LTE network will provide fast, reliable mobile broadband for GM's connected vehicles, we're also looking forward to working directly with GM researchers and engineers as well as the developer community to invent new in-vehicle applications that will take full advantage of our powerful network," said Ralph de la Vega, president and CEO, AT&T Mobility.

Both GM and AT&T are leading innovators in their industries.

GM received more U.S. patents in 2012 than any other automaker as it continued to drive advances in performance, efficiency, sustainability and in-vehicle infotainment.  GM's OnStar enabled the world's first connected vehicles 16 years ago, and delivers industry-leading capabilities, ranging from stolen vehicle assistance to voice navigation and live advisor support.

"As we implement 4G LTE connectivity into our vehicles the most important piece we will consider is delivering this technology to our customers in a safe manner, staying focused on reducing any related distractions," said Chan.

AT&T maintains a long heritage of innovation at AT&T Labs.  The company's hands-on work with the developer community, centered in its AT&T Foundry facilities, has resulted in numerous innovations in mobile apps and network technology.

The widespread integration of 4G LTE into GM vehicles will enhance GM's recently announced application framework and third-party developers program.  In January, GM introduced a new set of vehicle application programming interfaces (APIs), which enable developers to build on GM vehicles' infotainment systems, as well as a new flexible application framework that will allow drivers to add apps and infotainment features to their vehicles after purchase.

"Our commitment to 4G LTE strengthens our ability to collaboratively innovate with developer partners," said Chan.  "Developers will be able to take full advantage of 4G LTE speeds as they design vehicle-specific apps, and they can pursue development knowing that they'll have a broad base of potential customers as connectivity is built-in across GM brands and regions."

As 4G LTE networks expand globally, GM plans to work with additional carrier partners to enable connectivity in other brands such as Opel and Vauxhall.  Additional details on availability and service options will be announced later.