“Nearly Effortless” Appalachian Mountain 700-Mile Towing Trip Made Possible By 2022 Chevy Silverado’s Super Cruise

Modern pickups drive almost like luxury sedans, and experts at Jalopnik admitted to being troubled this week. They weren’t troubled in the least by the high quality of segment-leading trucks such as our 2022 Silverado, but at the fact that so many families are using pickups as sedans. 

Today’s trucks can boast amazing technology and a very high level of sophistication, and there are now so many ways to make the job easier. One of the ways that had only been portrayed on fantasy TV for years was to construct a truck that could drive itself, and staff writer Kevin Williams was eager to take a 2022 Silverado High Country through the Appalachian Mountains on a towing mission. As he stepped inside to begin his journey, he noted that the dashboard and center console had been completely restyled, with a fitting blue-tinted leather coating on all the surfaces. 

Open-pore wood and more selective use of metal accents make for a higher-end first impression, along with a 13.4-inch touchscreen with some of the best-allocated colors on the market. It uses Google’s new car-based operating system, which is Android-based and boasts Google Maps along with Google Assistant. The flow felt straightforward and purposeful, the interface easy to use, and with Google Maps integrated into the OS, it helps with Super Cruise’s operation. 

Super Cruise was once available only on Cadillacs and allows for completely hands-free driving. Kevin’s route for this journey began in Columbus, Ohio, and ultimately saw him finish in Winchester, Virginia. This was 350 miles of towing that went through Pennsylvania and Maryland first, with a large portion of the journey not having any cell phone service. 

Kevin had completed this very same route with the much smaller Chevy Bolt, and was surprised to feel that the application served him just right in a larger and more powerful vehicle. The Silverado’s 420 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque mated to a ten-speed automatic can easily accomplish tow jobs involving a double-wide, and his combined load was around 5,500 lbs. 

The Silverado’s massive capability combined with Super Cruise allowed for the ultimate towing experience with ease, and he noted early in the drive that he felt odd sitting with his hands in his lap when Super Cruise initially took over. Automatic lane change isn’t possible during a hefty tow, but automatic lane keeping and radar cruise operate at 100%. Over the roughly 700-mile journey to Virginia and back, Kevin used Super Cruise at every single stretch of road it was available. It maintained lane position without a single issue through Wheeling, West Virginia, and all warnings that the system was preparing to shut off were given with plenty of advance. 

The built-in LED light in the steering wheel will suddenly flash red, and the seat will vibrate to alert the driver. When Kevin arrived at his final destination, he was astounded at how alert he felt, after not having to squint, hyper-focus, and handle the wheel at every single curve. Finishing his review by touting this setup as a “techno powerhouse” with more than 10,000 lbs of towing capability, this was an ideal testament to just how good things get when the innovations of tomorrow are combined with the awesome features and brute force of today! 

January Reveal of Hybrid Corvette E-Ray Will “Keep the Neighborhood Peace” With Noise-Cancelling Stealth Mode

The Chevy Corvette has long been one of our most beloved models here at West Chevy. Spanning 8 design generations and always cranking out top-tier performance, its switch to a mid-engine format in 2019 was a milestone in engineering success. Chevy just released the first teaser for the hybrid Corvette, allowing for a few glances of the exterior styling and revealing that it will now feature a brand-new “Stealth” mode. 

Looking at the exterior first, it is noted that body-colored panels replace some of the regular C8’s contrast-painted bits, and one immediately notices the E-Ray badge on the side of the car. An image from the official configurator last month showed a body kit like the Z06’s, but with differences from other Corvette variants sporting body-colored trim pieces. The configurator also shows a grand total of 13 colors for the 2024 model year, with the newest among them being the Riptide Blue Metallic, Cacti, and Sea-Wolf Gray.

The teaser also depicts a “Stealth” mode. This allows you to put the E-Ray into a quieter mode to fire the car up and not stir up attention with the roaring exhaust on your way. There should be enough battery power to back out of the driveway and proceed far enough away from the houses with those still asleep before the V8 rouses everyone with its signature growl. 

There also appears to be a regenerative braking mode button on the interior along with carbon ceramic brakes. It has recently been confirmed that the E-Ray will have all-wheel drive, making it the first-ever production Corvette configured as such. The 2023 model reeled in heaps of praise from the KBB online review team, for its “amazing supercar performance, styling, and relative affordability.” Compared to the Supercars of our present time, the Corvette is much easier on the pocketbook than top-ranking competitors and holds its own against them just fine.

During the drive, you’ll figure out right away that this is one of those models that offers up an amazing experience each time out on the road. The 6.2-liter V8 is well-sourced and dedicated to its duty of propelling the lightweight two-seater boasting 490 horsepower, with lightning quick and precise steering. Beginning with the 2LT trim and up, the Corvette also comes with a performance data recorder, allowing you to check out the drive at your own pace later to improve your skills. The Z51 Package adds to the mix an exhaust system, a more track-focused suspension, strong brakes, heavier-duty cooling, plus a Z51 front splitter and rear spoiler. 

The 2023 Z06 provides ample muscle for the track with more rubber, downforce, and overall sportiness provided by its adaptive suspension and expertly-crafted engine. This 5.5-liter V8 has a lightweight flat-plane crankshaft, forged titanium connecting rods, and forged aluminum pistons, enabling it to boast 670 horsepower. Even though many have complained about the lack of a manual transmission in the new ‘Vette group, the 8-speed dual-clutch automated setup was ranked as “superior in every way” by the knowledgeable KBB.com staff. 

Practical, Efficient, and Charging into the Future: How Does the 2023 Chevy Bolt Stack up Against the Chevy Bolt EUV?

Accelerating growth has most definitely been the theme of the past few years for all of us here at West Chevy of Knoxville, as we have seen many new models and the future of electrification shaping up and finally set in stone. The Chevy Bolt has been changing the planet one model at a time since 2017 as a useful hatchback boasting a solid range and convenient features. The Bolt EUV was introduced last year, with a slightly larger interior space and many of the same basic features. 

The USNews.com team cranked out a blog last week comparing the features between the two and laying out the important categories helping the consumer differentiate between their specific capabilities. Here are some specific qualities and where each model stands. 

Price: Both models are extremely budget-friendly, but the smaller Bolt is the winner here. On average, it is about $1,600 less than the Bolt EUV, which features the Premiere Redline Trim, along with other costlier options such as the hands-free addition of Super Cruise. 

Reliability: In this category, it is only fair to allow a tie. Chevy provides both the Bolt and the Bolt EUV a 3-year/36,000-mile limited warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty. Both models also get an 8-year/100,000-mile battery pack warranty to assure that you can always be confident you'll have enough juice on the road. 

Seat Comfort: Even though it's a fairly compact model, the Bolt offers ample front seat space along with headroom. The back seats and rear bench are an excellent addition to get that many more family members or work cohorts to the gathering! All in all, the Bolt is more than adequate for the longer journeys that the coming of spring will soon provide. 

Cargo Space: The slightly smaller Bolt offers just a bit more cargo space than the Bolt EUV, with 16.6 cubic feet up against the EUVs 16.3. With the back seats folded flat, the Bolt has 57 cubic feet alongside the EUV’s 56.9. Both vehicles offer underfloor storage that makes their cargo areas even better. Both the Bolt and Bolt EUV are relatively low to the ground, which can make loading and unloading cargo quite a bit simpler than it is on full-size SUVs.

Interior Quality: The interiors are nearly identical and surprisingly premium for their pricing. Class upholstery comes as standard equipment, but it does feature unique patterns and well-appointed textures that offer up a more luxurious feel. There are high-quality materials used in some of the most-frequented necessities such as the steering wheel.

Interior Features: The EUV is just slightly ahead of the game here, with a generous list of high-tech features and comfort options. The EUV features wireless smartphone charging as standard, which is an added cost on the Bolt. A 10.2-inch infotainment touch screen now comes as standard in both models, paired with an 8-inch digital gauge cluster. Some of the premium options that add vibrancy and a dose of extra style to the mix are a Bose stereo, additional USB ports, and wireless charging. 

Acceleration: The Bolt can get up to 60 mph in just 6.5 seconds, and the Bolt EUV takes just half a second more. With instant torque from the electric motor, both models feel quick, capable, and lively. They both have a single electric motor that makes 200 horsepower and 266 lb-ft of torque, with power sent to the front wheels with a single-speed automatic transmission.

2023 Chevy Silverado ZR2 Jumps to the Task for Eager Off-Road Crowd

The Jalopnik auto review staff has been adamantly praising the Chevy Silverado ZR2 as the “true boss” of our lineup, and for taking an incredibly successful aim at the off-road crowd. It is equipped much like the Z71 Package, yet kicks things up an aggressive notch with its off-road attitude. Everyone here at West Chevy of Knoxville has long loved the Silverado ZR2’s extra-tall hood and suspension lift, properly equipping it for the bumps and much-needed bravado of the trail. 

The 2022 year saw the Silverado getting a thorough facelift, with a front fascia that flows visually with the rest of the model noticeably better. It results in a mean look, but one that also proves to be very functional. As imposing as it seems at first glance, the ZR2 is pretty narrow compared to the respective leaders of the segment from Ford and Ram, offering up a bit more in a reserved fashion with the all-important first impression. The refreshed interior features improved materials and an infotainment system powered by the all-knowing and efficient Google.

The seats are over-the-top comfortable and accommodating, with plenty of room for 6’ tall individuals during drive testing, while hopping in and out proved itself a simple task. Originally designed to exist as solid competition for the Ford Raptor and Ram TRX, the ZR2 actually shifts into drive and lurches confidently forward as a very fundamentally different and adventure-prone truck. It comes equipped standard with the 6.2-liter V8 cranking out 420 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque, while paired to a 10-speed automatic. 

The torque always kicks in righteously early, and the transmission provides accurate and smooth shifts that have your back even while careening directly up or downhill. During a week-long and much anticipated “skill-proving internship”, the truck never once felt on the short end of the stick for power. We know all about the cross-town rival in the haughty form of the Ram TRX’s 702 horsepower coming as standard, but we still eagerly are flaunting the 6 second-ish 0-60 time the ZR2 brandishes. 

Since the Raptor and TRX are beating their chests repeatedly with so much to prove, our engineer and implementation teams here at Chevy were sure to prepare the Silverado’s capability with a bit more assertive and streamlined. We are so very proud to announce that it’s a finished product with a bit less athleticism, and a well-honed focus on still consistent and duty-crushing daily driving. The crawl-ready equipment underneath begins its grade A abilities courtesy of the Multimatic DSSV spool-valve dampers, which are designed to assist with increased wheel travel.

There’s also a two-speed transfer case, and the bonus of very capable one-pedal driving is offered up in low-speed terrain mode. This is a thorough and well executed version of the lifted pickup that every hard-working American dream of, with the bonus of boosted clearance and capability and industry-leading warranty coverage. The DSSV shocks, low-range gearing, and excellent approach and departure angles are on deck to provide the “sensible rambler’s” defined approach to off-roading in 2023. 

2023 Chevy Corvette 70th Anniversary Edition Remains “Every bit as Excellent” With Classy Commemoration

Some of the fondest memories we have here at West Chevy of Knoxville are of the Chevy Corvette, an iconic American sports car that has been completely reworked and revolutionary! Now in its 8th generation, it is quite a bit different than its fiberglass predecessor. Now, there is a 70th anniversary Special Edition Package that is a stellar addition to the lineup! The Cars.com team recently got to see just how fantastic it is and thought that this upgrade was worth every extra penny.

This 70th anniversary edition package is available for the 3LZ and 3LT trims on the Corvette ZO6 and Corvette Stingray. The 3LT adds a more luxurious interior and upgraded GT2 seats, with the 3LZ Z06 boasting all of these on top of a carbon fiber and microfiber trimmed steering wheel. The 70th-Anniversary Edition provides proper paint in the form of White Pearl Metallic Tri-Coat or Carbon Flash Metallic, with the option to be fully decked out in satin Gray or black racing stripes.

You’ll also be taking on the challenges of the track with carbon-painted side mirrors, red-painted brake calipers, and very cool unique exterior badging. If you opt for the Stingray coupe, you'll be fully styled out with a unique red engine cover. Some of the most notable car reviewing professionals in the world love the C8’s exterior, and the wheels look especially fitting and ready for high-octane fun.

The interior boasts A2 tone ceramic white upholstery, with red stitching red seatbelts and suede style trim on the steering wheel and seats. The available front and rear storage compartments are large enough to hold 3 rolling suitcases, in an outdoor-ready backpack when the Cars.com team traveled home from the LA airport. The car’s overall driving experience is still every bit as amazing during its fourth model year, with the 6.2-liter V8 behind your head providing a legendary and never-ending source of power.

We are situated at an interval of time in the car industry where being a collector is now more important than ever, as electrification is rapidly arriving to make its mark on the industry forever. It will be no surprise to see very low mileage models appearing up on well-known resale sites as remarkable collectibles in a mere few years. The C8 was the official “goodbye” regarding the transverse leaf springs for the suspension and placement of the engine just in front of the rear wheels. 

This was the very long-awaited result of the mid-engined super that has had connoisseurs and car buffs worldwide anxious for decades. This design allows for a transformation that allows for the feel of a true convertible from the ground up, with the ability to take the roof off manually and store it right in the rear load area. The designated convertible version comes with an electric folding roof, and the segment-leading stopping performance of the Brembo Brakes on the Z51 Package will leave you as breathless as the excitement did during the launch and acceleration process! 

2023 Chevy Tahoe Z71 Impresses Motor Trend Experts as Capable Contender for “Four-Wheeler SUV of the Year”

When GM first introduced the Chevy Tahoe Z71 platform in 2021, we were intently watching here at West Chevy of Knoxville as we knew it was a stellar larger-sized hauler with widespread appeal! It was then launched with the Z71 and Yukon AT4 trims, and both were then invited to compete in the Motor Trend Four-Wheeler SUV of the Year event. The 2023Tahoe came ready for the challenge, with many new additions that keep it competitive and agile.

These include magnetic ride control dampers, an upgraded engine, and the addition of an optional electronic limited-slip differential. As the team headed to the track, they were excited to put this reliable 6.2-liter EcoTex3 V8 to the test, which fearlessly cranks out 420 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque. The crew witnessed the Tahoe Z71 laying down a zero to 60 mph time of 6.46 seconds, and an aggressive run through the quarter mile in 14.85 seconds.

It had just as powerful a launch off the line as the crew had expected, with sport mode being the favorite for its perfect gear shifting. The 4-High Auto transfer case setting was the best at allowing for killer traction, and the judges gave high marks for the Tahoe’s seat comfort, with the middle and 3rd rows offering a great place for those on a post-holiday haul. The new driver information screen and center infotainment system proved to be a useful application for Google integration, offering a format that was not too confusing and easily got the task at hand done.

The Tahoe Z71 was fitted with a 33-inch Goodyear 275/60R20 tire, which offered the stance and go-anywhere strut that makes the Tahoe a little more appealing for those planning an overland adventure. It was incredibly at ease on the highway, thanks to the addition of magnetic ride control dampers and the sufficient power from the 6.2-liter V8. Once they encountered the off-road terrain, they conquered medium-sized bumps, massive ruts, and berms with ease, as the independent suspension did its job working overtime to smooth out the elements.

The Tahoe offers more space and sophistication than earlier, which is a solid foundation for its ability to lead the large SUV class. Winning an editor’s choice award from Car and Driver, you’ll also want to make sure that you check out the Signature Package: it includes blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist, a heated steering wheel and second-row seats, memory settings, panoramic sunroof, power-folding third row, and upgraded towing equipment. This testing crew managed to fit six carry-on suitcases directly behind the third row, whereas the outgoing model only had room for four. In addition to multiple interior charging ports, the three-row Tahoe offers an upgraded Bose Stereo System and two 12.6-inch displays mounted behind the front seats.

2023 Chevy Equinox Base Trim Enjoys Boost in Superiority: High-End Features Dazzle at Entry Level

After helping families and many other Tennessee drivers here at West Chevy of Knoxville for decades, we have realized that our customers desire top-tier features on even entry level trim levels. The standard formula for many prominent brands was to force buyers to purchase higher trim levels to get advanced safety features, larger infotainment screens, and all-around appeal. We’re happy to share that the 2023 Chevy Equinox is equipped for the New Year with the LS, LT, RS, and Premier trims offering desirable features and performance for every type of driver. 

Each trim has a 1.5-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder, paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Also included as standard are wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a 12-volt outlet to charge all your portable tech goods and an appropriately boomin’-for-the-holidays 6-speaker sound system. The Premier trim provides a step up in features, toting wireless charging, auto-dimming rear-view mirrors, HD rear-view camera, and safety alert seating. 

The LS trim brings the FWD feature along with it, and the inclement condition-tackling AWD variant adds 17-inch wheels with all-season tires and front bucket seats as standard. The Midnight Edition is one of our favorite upgrades: it ideally darkens things up a notch with 18-inch wheels, black bowtie emblems, a black grille and mesh, and a black metallic exterior that is stealth enough for even secret service applicants to perk up and take notice! The LS Convenience package makes the daily grind just that much easier with extra USB data ports, a heated steering wheel, park assist, automatic dual-zone climate control, and heated front seats. 

All trims come with the 4-cylinder, 1.5-liter turbocharged engine, and 6-speed automatic transmission, cranking out 175 horsepower and 203 lb-ft of torque. The LS FWD variant of the compact SUV has a 1,500-lb towing capacity, and 1,190 lb payload after Edmunds.com team’s official test drive. The Equinox proudly provides family hauling duty with unique style while doing so and offers up 29.9 cubic ft of cargo space behind the backseat, extending to 63.9 cubic feet when the second-row seats are folded. 

Among today’s offerings there’s no shortage of very appealing small SUVs, and the 2023 Equinox faces competition in a very crowded space against the examples that we feel are a bit more everyday and ordinary, like the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4. Easy to drive, even easier to park, and boasting far above average crash-test scores, it is the practical and still package that TheCarConnection.com deemed as “full of pizazz, personality, and punch.” 

The comfort-oriented suspension does a fantastic job of absorbing any bumps in your path, and the steering possesses a firmly weighted characteristic that allows for athletic steering under demand. The color choices for the Equinox now will include Sterling Gray and Harvest Bronze Metallic, as well as Radiant Red tintcoat. Navigating features is simple with a straightforward infotainment interface and consistently pleasant ride: we hope to see you soon here at West Chevrolet to check out this and the many other models that will make 2023 a productive, active, and milestone-making driving year!