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!

Excited Onlookers Enjoy National Drive Electric Week

On Sept. 22nd in the sunny streets of Venice, California, Chevy took over the appropriately named Electric Avenue to give the public a taste of the Eco-friendly attributes of electric power. Even though many consumers are generally familiar with the benefits of an electric vehicle, there are still many who have not yet driven one for themselves. The Bolt EUV and EV were the stars of the show as those who participated learned about the benefits of EV ownership, range, and home charging options fitted for their lifestyle.

There were also a few newly released EVs on display, as the 2024 Blazer EV and 2024 Equinox EV were present courtesy of Your Korean Dad star and EV connoisseur Nic Cho. The Bolt EV and EUV are fitting and cost-efficient options for any lifestyle, with the EV providing an EPA-estimated 259 miles of range on a full charge. Both models are offered with Chevy’s at-home charging installation promotion, and KBB.com has deemed the Bolt EV the “cheapest new electric car for sale in the United States.” 

A car that is easy on the pocketbook is heavily in demand and holds a large amount of appeal within the EV segment. The 2023 Chevy Bolt features the Regen on Demand shift paddle beneath the steering wheel, and when it is set at the highest intensity of brake regeneration, the car will speed up or slow down based on how much pressure is applied to the accelerator. 

During the stop and go of city driving, the Bolt EV handles amazingly smoothly, rides quietly, and still offers up bursts of acceleration when needed. The luggage space behind you is 16.6 cubic feet, which expands to 57 cubic feet after being folded down. 

The 1LT Trim offers 17-inch alloy wheels, LED exterior lighting, heated side mirrors, keyless entry/start, remote start, an 8-inch digital driver information display, single-zone automatic climate control, programmable Teen Driver key, and cloth upholstery. The infotainment system has been praised for its wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, Wi-Fi, in-vehicle apps, USB-A Port, USB C Port, satellite radio, and six-speaker stereo. The 2LT trim brings perforated leather seating surfaces, a heated/leather-wrapped steering wheel, a 360-degree camera system, rear parking sensors, and blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert.

2021 Chevy Trailblazer Dominates Crossover Market With Smooth and Comfortable Ride

With school back in session soon and the seemingly endless pile of errands stacking up, the appeal of one of the nation’s best-selling crossover SUVs has never been stronger. The 2021 Trailblazer is between the smaller Trax and larger Equinox in the Chevy lineup, and the trusty testing crew from The Oakland Express took a close-up look to see just how it stands up in today’s very highly-populated vehicle offering marketplace.

The testing model arrived dipped in the scarlet red metallic paint scheme, with a few sharp sidelines that heightened its profile. A few of the winning touches on the exterior were 18-inch gloss black machined aluminum wheels, LED taillamps, heated power-adjustable mirrors, dual-exhaust outlets, and RS lettering and black ornamentation. The interior was jet black with red accents, and the easy-to-use center screen and steering wheel controls are fit for the urban commuter who is seeking hard-backed Chevy SUV quality.

You’ll love finding many ways to maximize the 25.3 cubic feet of max cargo volume, and 54.5 cubic feet with rear seats folded. With nimble handling and a strong infotainment system with extra-quick response to both touch and voice commands, the Trailblazer is a breeze to drive. 4G LTE WiFi service is also available, and all trim levels will benefit from keyless entry and keyless start.

Everyday people love feeling as if they are protected on the road. The addition of the Driver Confidence Package adds Rear Park Assist, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, and Lane Change Alert with Side Blind Zone Alert to ensure you’re always safe.

Every Trailblazer buyer will have plenty to smile about in regards to warranty coverage at West Chevy. Our standard 3-year/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper limited warranty, 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain limited warranty, roadside assistance, and courtesy transportation coverage will let you drive your new car off the lot with confidence. With roomy seating and cargo space, upscale and spacious interior, and the ability to squeeze into tight spots wherever you go, the Trailblazer will attract many with its low entry pricing point and practicality!

2021 Chevy Silverado’s Turbocharged 2.7-Liter Inline-4 L3B Gasoline Engine Shines as Standard Option

The turbocharged 2.7-liter Inline 4 L3B gasoline engine has been the power source for the Chevy Silverado 1500 Pickup range, and will soon serve as the standard engine for the 2022 Chevy Silverado Limited. The 2022 Silverado refresh will go into production during late 2022 and the L3B will be the power source for the most popular vehicle the bowtie brand offers. With its consistently work-ready stature and amazing track record for performance, the Silverado has been appreciated for its handling, suspension, and available technology options for years.

The 2021 Silverado 1500 rides on the T1 body-on-frame platform used in the 2021 GMC Sierra pickup, the 2021 Chevy Tahoe and Suburban, and the 2021 Cadillac Escalade. An all-American testament to quality, the Silverado easily secured a spot on the KBB.com best resale value top ten list. Proudly boasting 460 lb-ft of torque and a 9,500-lb towing capacity, the Silverado can tackle any job.

With more camera views than any other competitor, the Silverado helps make your next haul easy. Drivers will love the Durabed, as it’s designed to help you get more done, whether it's hauling 2x4’s, plywood, or anything else that needs to be moved. The lighting elements on the 2021 Silverado are simply amazing: they include pillar lamps angled toward the front of the box, hitch area lighting to help at night, and cab-mounted cargo lights.

The new Multi-Flex Tailgate is available on all eight trim levels and offers six functions designed to aid with loading, unloading, and accessing the cargo bed. The load stop helps prevent larger cargo items from sliding right out of the bed, and the inner gate folds down to allow a much further reach directly into the bed. To keep your eyes where they need to be while on the road, an available multi-color 15-inch diagonal Head-Up Display shows you active safety alerts, speed, and available navigation features in real-time.

The cabin now sports more size in almost every way, offering more shoulder room and rear passenger space than the previous generation, as well as segment-leading front head and leg room. Don’t forget to check out the myChevrolet Mobile App: it lets you turn your compatible mobile device into a highly functioning center of command, putting control over your Chevy vehicle at your fingertips. While in the comfort of the Silverado’s cabin, you can stream your favorite songs, catch up on daily news, or take in your favorite podcasts while you enjoy the most tremendous and everyday-practical truck in the industry!

Chevy Colorado ZR2 Boasts “Enough Impressive Oomph To Conquer Gnarliest of Terrains”

 The midsize truck market has seen a great amount of change over the last five years, as what used to be on the smaller side of things grew exponentially larger, and drivers began demanding more tech features along with a higher level of comfort inside the cabin. The Chevy Colorado has long been a favorite for those looking for a truck that isn't stretched out to XXL proportions, and the ZR2 offers up off-road-ready specifics that have forged their way into a very sizable and loyal following. 

There remains the choice of either a diesel-powered 2.8-liter Duramax engine or an optional 3.6-liter gasoline V6, with a 6-speed automatic for the inline-four diesel and 8-speed for the V6. Front and rear locking differentials on top of a switchable 4-wheel drive system are a few of the traits that thoroughly prepare the ZR2 for the demands of the trail, as well as its 7000-lb towing rating. Just a short trip away from us here at West Chevy of Knoxville provides the amazing outdoor excursion to Windrock Park, offering more than 73,000 acres of challenging and versatile terrain to test your rig skills on. 

For difficult destinations such as this the diesel would prove to be the best, and if sticking around where you'll be driving on more pavement the gas engine offers a great choice. Handling tricky corners with minimal roll and boasting a completely revised grille, the front fascia now boasts a look that you can't miss as it comes up on you into plain view. Well-chiseled and now hollowed-out to provide drastic improvement for airflow, there is an air of simplicity here that draws visual attention to the end of the truck that will be proceeding towards boulders and other hazards first. 

The WT, LT, and Z71 models now feature updated center bars, skid plates, and lower fascias. Red tow hooks are now standard equipment, and you can choose from Bright Blue Metallic, Cherry Red Tintcoat, and Sand Dune Metallic for sand-running and fire-road ready new exterior colors. The LT model receives a new Chevy Infotainment 3 system with an 8-inch diagonal color touchscreen, Bluetooth audio streaming for 2 active devices, voice command pass-through to phone, and Apple CarPlay as well as Android Auto capability. With an extremely maneuverable size and offering a very comfortable ride over most surfaces, the Edmunds auto review team praised the ZR2 for its consistently excellent fuel economy, and its ability to return an EPA rating of around 20 mph while exhibiting crushing performance off-road all day long. 

Great features offered on base-level trims are another way that models like the Colorado provide an added luster: the standard features on the base WT include air conditioning, cloth upholstery, and vinyl floor covering, power windows, 7-inch infotainment, two USB ports, and a 6-speaker sound system. The LT adds all of these great options, plus a leather-wrapped tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, power-adjustable driver's seat, 8-inch touchscreen, and two additional USB ports. 

Graced With Potent Upgrades: How the Chevy Silverado Does Battle With the F-150

 

Everyone here at West Chevy of Knoxville has been diligent at keeping a close eye on the competition in the truck category, as we have great pride and trust in our Silverado line that provides the form and function that many hard-working men and women need to power through the day. As Ford is preparing to launch the all-new-generation F-150 for 2021, we are hard at work with updates to the Chevy Silverado 1500 to keep it sharp enough for rugged competition.

 

For starters, Automatic Emergency Braking, Front Pedestrian Braking, and Forward Collision Alert will be added to our full-size light-duty pickup. A new report from GM -Trucks gave us a heads up about some changes we previously weren't alerted to, as detailed in a new Consensus Report distributed to us through Chevy's US dealer network. These changes will be great news to anyone who uses their full-size truck for rigorous towing duty: there will now be Trailering Tech enhancements and Max Towing enhancements for the 2.7-liter 4-cylinder and  3.0-Liter Duramax diesel. The 2021 Silverado HD will see updates of what area the backup feed camera displays and a few other towing-focused changes.

 

As far as other updates to properly aid in the ongoing battle against the F150, we think the cooling system on trucks powered by either the 2.7-Liter turbo-four or the 3.0-Liter diesel could see an increase in airflow or overall capacity. Since towing is known to generate massive amounts of heat, cooling needs to be a carefully-examined issue, because it can provide a major restriction on a vehicle's maximum tow rating. Another potentially exciting changeup could be the torque curves seeing enhancement for improved towing on the Silverado 1500's 2.7-liter gas and  3.0-Liter diesel engines, by means of an elevated torque peak. 

For this year's model, 20-inch by 9-inch black painted aluminum wheels are now free flow on the Custom Trail Boss and LT Trail Boss, and 20-inch by 9-inch Polished finish wheels are now standard on the LTZ. Inside is the addition of Wireless Phone Projection for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and Sirius XM is now available on Work Truck models as well as standard on Custom, Custom Trail Boss, LT, RST, and LT Trail Boss models. More safety features added across the board will no doubt provide a strong draw for customers that are checking out all of their options in the truck realm, and sway them into choosing what is the best and most stylish truck out there!

 

For those who are on the hunt for a full-sized pickup with a unique design that you won't find elsewhere, check out the Redline Edition: It brings to the mix body-color front and rear bumpers, LED fog lamps and cargo lighting, unique front grille and bumper design, a front and rear lowering kit, illuminated bowtie emblem, and performance exhaust and cold air intake kit.   

The Coming of the C8 Was Incredible: What's Coming Next Will be Earth-Shaking

With the engine situated for the first time behind the driver after decades of speculation and in-depth engineering, the new Corvette represented an enormous change for one of America's most iconic cars. As of now, there has not been an official announcement, there will certainly be much more powerful and faster Corvettes to come in the future, really catapulting Chevy into the realm of full-blown super cars such as Lamborghini and Ferrari. It is no shame that some have not considered us neck and neck with these high-end track-dominators as of yet, seeing as how Chevy products are a mere fraction of their price. 

 

In today's current base model, the 495-horsepower Stingray has many advantages when taking a close look at the Corvettes' new “rear mid-engine” layout. The entire car's weight is shifted, which improves handling through curves as well as speed in a straight line since the back wheels have more weight over them. Right away you notice how much closer you as the driver is to the perfect center of the driving experience. You are also seated a bit further forward, closer to the front wheels that are piloting the car.

With a lower hood minus the engine, the driver also gets to enjoy a more thorough view of the road ahead, which helps in droves during high-speed maneuvers. This design that was pondered and conceptualized for so long now enables engineers to create versions of the car with an abundance of higher power, and the ability to handle it on all counts. The current C8 brandishes 50 more horsepower than the outgoing model and has received very high accolades and raving reviews for handling, the feel of the interior, and spectacular value. 

We have been informed here at West Chevy of Knoxville that a high-performance hybrid is widely rumored to be in the design stages, but it has not been officially confirmed. A very long and narrow row of buttons graces the current C8's interior, creating a snug low wall between the driver and passenger, while the central touchscreen is also tilted towards the driver. There is no more manual transmission offered, and the automatic is quick, responsive, and smooth as anything many auto journalists have driven during their entire career.

Changing driving modes is done via a knob with a comfy hand rest above it, and plugs you straight into Tour, Sport, or Track modes at your whim. The seasoned experts out there have been excited about just how good this car corners, and how the Track mode adjusts the suspension and steering responsiveness to immediately adapt to the adrenaline-laced challenge. We will keep you posted here on the blog about the many ways in which the coming Corvette will be even more exciting and powerful, and the best medium to take on a “socially distanced” cruise at “speed of light” caliber!

2021 Chevy Malibu Sport Edition Featured in Carbuzz.com Close-Up

During a time when trucks and SUVs are snagging up a large share of what is the overall popularity factor, it is inspiring to see that the fun and engagement had while driving a sedan still lives on. The ninth-generation Chevy Malibu is gaining a new spec as it now enters its sixth year on the market in the form of the Sport Edition, and the folks on staff at Carbuzz.com highlighted the excitement in their blog this week.

 

The 2021 Sport Package includes upgrades in the form of a black nameplate badge, black bow-tie emblems, and black-painted alloy wheels measuring 13 inches in diameter, wrapped in 245-section all-season tires. It is based on the LT trim level – one step down from the range-topping premier trim – and sees the requirement of a Jet-Black exterior paint option. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto will now see wireless features, where before a USB cable connection was required, and the model will also see the addition of a newly available safety feature being added to encourage proper seat belt use. Called “Buckle to Drive”, the driver is not allowed to shift out of park until it is detected that the seat belt is fastened.

Inside, the current Malibu sports a traditional cabin for its class, but it adds to the style with varying light color contrasts, an exceptionally large touchscreen, a simpler HVAC interface, and uniquely shaped air vents. If you opt for the RS trim, you see even more contrast with Jet Black Interior, which matches with the metallic trim nicely. Those looking for a bit more luxury will find what they need in the Premium trim, which includes leather seating, ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, and more.

Standard amenities such as an 8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, a six-speaker audio system, and Bluetooth audio streaming should all be on the list, and under the hood in the starter model is a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder that delivers 163 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. At the top of the engine lineup is a 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder that cranks out 250 hp, paired to a nine-speed automatic transmission. All of us here at West Chevy of Knoxville are proud of the fact that the current Malibu boasts a “Superior” rating in the front-crash prevention test, and this is with the enhanced automatic emergency braking system.

After a test drive, you’re going to see so many reasons to add the Malibu to your family’s fleet: the sedan always offers up the connection between the road and the driver that the excitement of driving was always meant to be centered around. The ability to haul and tow that a pickup gives you always boasts its appropriate time and place, but when a hairpin turn is in your near future, the spirit and excitement of a sedan are unbeatable and exhilarating!

“Huge Hit on Our Hands”: 2022 Chevy Corvette Z06 Spy Shots Via Motor Authority

The general consensus over the past year through various blog posts and car aficionado websites is that the Bow-tie brand we love to represent so much here at West Chevy of Knoxville has had a huge hit on our hands with the mid-engine C8 Corvette. There are still models that are coming soon such as the Grand Sport, Z06 and ZR1, and even rumors of new hybrid models that will make their way down the pipeline soon as well.

The bloggers on duty at Motorauthority.com reported this past week that Chevy engineers have been spotted testing a souped-up version of the C8, and based on what past generations have offered up, you are here looking at a new Corvette Z06 that could appear as a 2022 model. At first glance it looks just a bit like previous testers for the Stingray but then you notice the wider rear wheels, which hint at it being a bit more track-tough and ready for even higher hits in the blistering acceleration department. On the Stingray the rear tires max out at about 305 millimetres, but the rear tires on the Z06 are expected to max out at 345 mm.

 

On the latest prototype, the front tires are already a hefty 275 mm and expect a few key changes on the interior as well. An official sketch from last fall had already shown what appeared to be the Z06's cabin, and the layout of the dash matched the design incorporated in the Stingray. The controls on the steering wheel were a bit different and had a giant red button with “Spec Mode” written on it. The instrument cluster displayed the layout of a racetrack, and there was carbon fiber present on many of the surfaces instead of the traditional leather.

The engine onboard is likely to be a close relative of the flat-plane-crank, dual-overhead-cam 5.5-liter V8 that was featured in the C8.R race car. When the overall power factor topic is discussed, we would have to agree that peak output is expected to hover around 600 horsepower. Even though this is a bit less than the 650 hp of the C7 club's supercharged V8, there are going to be plenty out there who have a deep appreciation for naturally aspirated power, even If it means the top end resting a bit lower. For those out there that are among the most power-hungry, there is a twin-turbocharged version of the new V-8 with a bolstered number closer to 800 horsepower expected in the new ZR1, and it promises to deliver the ultimate power needed to command your stance on the track.

At first seating and firing up up the engine, scores of automobile bloggers and enthusiasts have fallen in love with the new Corvette right away. The tightly-wrapped interior, off-the charts handling, and feeling that this is a true competitor against the big-named players such as Ferrari on the track have deemed the coming Corvette models as a perfect choice for anyone itching to spend summer blistering up the track!

Sizzling Summer World-Building Opp: Tahoe and Suburban Configurators are up and Running

Autoblog is one of our favorite news authorities here at West Chevy of Knoxville when it comes to the most current scoops, and they recently alerted us to the fact that the configurators for the 2021 Suburban and Tahoe are fully functional! As the temps heat up and it can feel good to stay inside for hours on end, you can build your optimal-featured vehicle, and learn about the two new models while you're at it. One interesting example that the testers used was that of an airport or Uber SUV chauffeur for the Tahoe.

They began with the basic black entry-level LT spec in 2WD and then added the Luxury Package for the driver convenience and assistance features. They then threw in the Rear Seat Media and Navigation package for the passengers' entertainment, then added a locking center console, cargo shade, and black Bow-tie emblems, after swapping up to 20-inch wheels for greater curb appeal. Years ago many customers would have to spend a greater amount of time at the dealer trying to figure out what worked well for them in the long run, and simply looking at pamphlets didn't always convey the finished product.

 

The initial Suburban build was for a man who runs survivalist and outdoor courses and began with the Z71 trim, Shadow Gray Metallic exterior, and Dark Atmosphere interior. With the Z71 package, you are locking in a spec of Max and Advanced Trailering packages, and black Bow-tie emblems. Then, without getting completely out of control, they stuck with the Luxury and Rear Media and Navigation packages.

For another Tahoe build, the customer was a typical Midwestern family. They began with 4WD Premier trim, and Graywood Metallic paint and Jet Black and Maple Sugar perforated leather interior to match. The Premium Package offers up convenience features like the 15-inch heads up display and the trailering tech for its ability to easily tow a boat. They then up the ante to 22-inch Carbon Flash wheels, and Rear Seat Media for the kids as well as a factory-official rooftop tent. It will be perfect for Minnesota lake weekends, and the High Country Trim offers power with the heftier 6.2-liter V8.

We love the fact that you can dig in deep and think about all of your options when it comes to these two, and customize the vehicle that will be your daily driver in the future. The Suburban is one of those iconic vehicles that has displayed a track record of reliability that is for the most part unprecedented, and the two are a pair to be reckoned with as far as any form of competition at all is concerned. We hope to see you soon here at West Chevy where we can answer any questions about ownership and financing, and selection of the model that is a perfect fit for you.

2021 Chevy Tahoe and Suburban Display Exciting Improvements to city MPG

It has been a week of big announcements and excitement here at West Chevy of Knoxville, and one of them was regarding our extremely popular pair of amazing haulers for any family or business: the Tahoe and Suburban. The 2021 EPA-estimated fuel economy numbers for the 2021 Chevy Tahoe and Suburban have just been announced and reflect an increase in city-driving fuel economy. These three GM SUVs are powered by either a 5.3-liter or 6.2-liter V-8 engine, with the option of a turbo-diesel inline-six.

 

Both the Suburban and GMC Yukon are completely redesigned from the ground up for the 2021 model year, and they now feature an independent rear suspension which allows for more very precious cargo space and are available with a choice of two gasoline V-8s or a turbo-diesel inline-six, all paired up nicely to a 10-speed automatic transmission. The EPA has released fuel economy for the pair, and the 2021 Suburban with the 5.3-Liter V8 is up 1 mpg in city driving compared to the 2020 model. Its combined EPA fuel economy is 18 mpg for rear-wheel drive models and 17 mpg with all-wheel drive.

Suburban’s that are deriving power from the 6.2- liter V8 nail down a combined 17 mpg for the rear-drive model and 16 mpg with all-wheel drive. The 2020 rear-wheel drive Suburban gets a 1-mpg increase in city-driving fuel economy, and “any gain is great” when you are dealing with a long-and-trusty vehicle such as these two. The review staff on duty at Cars.com claimed that “Chevy has saved the best for last” in terms of the Tahoe and Suburban, and that both new models are exceptional. This is due to packaging innovation, more space than ever before, and a new powertrain option.

The new look is a bit of a spin on the redesigned 2019 Silverado 1500 pickup, sporting indented headlights and split-level grille that creates a face slightly less aggressive than the truck's appearance. The powerful pair looks and feels just as massive as ever, and inside feels much more modern than in the sworn rival in the form of the Ford Expedition. We have now moved to push-button shifters mounted high on the dash, so there is no more constant hunting for buttons on the low end. The second-row seats do not just simply fold up and down; when they are returned to their upright position the mechanism elevates them a bit, making for better foot room when it comes to third-row passengers.

Since recent pickups are a reasonable gauge to go by, Chevy’s recent attention to vehicle dynamics overall is likely going to pay off for the Tahoe and Suburban just like it has for our beloved Silverado truck. These are two models that are about as good as it gets for anyone wanting to move passengers or cargo around town in extreme comfort, durability, and along with massive safety features and warranty options!

2021 Tahoe and Suburban Crush Numbers in MPG + Towing: Motortrend Offers up Raw Data

For the vehicles out there that are already a bit larger than average, it is always an exciting event when big improvements are looming on the horizon! Everyone here at West Chevy of Knoxville has always had a great love for these “two in troupe”, and their solid reputation for reliability. Both the 2021 Chevy Tahoe and Suburban Full-size SUVs were featured on the Motor Trend blog this past week in an article highlighting fuel efficiency and towing stat improvements across the line. On top of more third-row legroom and cargo space, both heavy haulers will see a new multi-link independent rear suspension that drastically improves ride quality.

Brandishing the standard 5.3-liter V8, the Tahoe is now estimated to offer up 16 mpg in the city, 20 mpg highway, and 18 mpg combined. These figures mostly improve on the old Tahoe's, which with an earlier 5.3-liter V-8 topped out at 15/22/18 mpg (city/highway/combined) with rear-wheel drive and 15/21/17 mpg in 4-wheel drive. When putting to use the 6.2-Liter V-8, the 2021 Tahoe sees 15/20/17 mpg (city/highway/combined) with rear-wheel drive and 14/19/16 mpg with 4WD.

The gas engines carry over from the previous model year, but also see the benefit of new fuel management technology. The 5.3-liter V-8 cranks out 355 horsepower and 383 lb-ft of torque, while the 6.2-liter V-8 resides at 420 horsepower and 460 lb-ft. In the ever-important hauling category, the 5.3-liter V8 gives the Tahoe's standard towing capacity an extra 1,400 pounds, and the final number for towing capacity on the Tahoe is 8,400 pounds.

Both models will provide many of the awesome towing technologies we've seen on the Silverado, including rear camera guidelines for easy hitching, trailer tire pressure and temperature monitors, an integrated trailering app with remote trailer light test, and enhanced side blind zone alert for trailering. What many people are waiting to see is if the upcoming 3.0-Liter Turbodiesel engine will help us to beat sworn rival Ford Expedition's towing capacity of 9,300 pounds, as well as keeping it a step ahead of the GMC Yukon and Cadillac Escalade stats.

When you are visiting us for a test drive of these two new models, keep in mind that there is a new Z71 trim level for the Suburban, and the top of the line High Country trim level is added to the lineup. It’s a bit like taking the old Suburban and creating a hybrid with the newest Silverado 1500 pickup truck, and the RST is one to keep your eye on: the custom sport model with unique front styling, a black ice grille finish, black and black chrome exterior detailing, and large wheels for a different sense of style and flavor!

Motor1.com Delivers Industry's First Bolt EUV Crossover Spy Shots

For so many in the auto industry including us here at West Chevy of Knoxville, there is an extreme focus on electric vehicles as the tone of the future is set to mesh with that of the present. The compact Bolt is slated to be joined by a slightly larger model in the lineup. Caught here on camera for the first time by Motor1.com, we can see clearly what will become the Bolt EUV, or Electric Utility Vehicle. This prototype was cloaked during these early stages with heavy camouflage front and rear to hide the coming facelift as well as its design.

We can see that the crossover holds on to the Bolt's short, stubby nose, and the up-kink in the beltline at the C-pillar looks like traditional Bolt styling as well. Most of the C-pillar is hidden under the camo, but it is also suspected that the Bolt's floating roof design is cloaked under the tarps. At the rear you can make out that the placeholder lights are still there, suggesting it may be a prototype in the early stages of development. Many customers are excited about the coming of this crossover that will be ideal for the urban dweller and should brandish a predicted driving range of about 400 miles on a charge.

Even with the presence of the camouflage here, we are not completely in the dark as to what this new EV crossover will look like. Earlier this year crosstown rival Buick Velite 7 was put on display for the Chinese market, and there may be a few design similarities between the two. It will have a wheelbase three inches longer than the standard Bolt and measure five inches longer overall. This will also be the first non-Cadillac model to obtain Super Cruise, but it will not yet receive GM's brand-new Utium battery tech.

The new Bolt model will likely be compatible with Level 2 fast charging and should probably debut by the end of the year. Impressions from some people who got a peek at GM's big EV event though that it bared a bit of resemblance to the upcoming Ford Mustang Mach-E. There is a push-button gearshift, new seats, and lots of soft-touch materials, including a padded dashboard with leather-like material covering it.

The standard version will have a 400-volt battery pack and up to 200 kw fast-charging capability, and the version for the truck platform will be 800 volts and support 350 kw charging. Battery packs on board will feature pouch-like cells that engineers will be able to stack horizontally or vertically within the pack, and will allow for a modular layout that sees potential for more customized setup for each product. The steering wheel features a sportier design, and the instrument-panel design has been given a more cleaned-up appearance in the climate control zone and infotainment offerings.

2021 Equinox's Debut at Chicago Auto Show Featured on RoadShow by Cnet

Here at West Chevy of Knoxville, the winter months are always full of excitement and information about new releases! The Chevy Equinox is the best-selling model in our lineup next to the Silverado and was featured on the RoadShow by Cnet blog this week due to its exciting debut at the Chicago Auto Show. It's been given a whole list of updates both inside and out, and these improve the car's cosmetics and also add some safety tech to the mix. The crossover now comes standard with lane-keeping assist, lane-departure warning, automatic emergency braking, automatic high beams, and a following-distance monitor.

You can also obtain option parking sensors, adaptive cruise control, automatic parking assist, and blind-spot monitoring. The front of the Equinox is a bit more reminiscent of the Blazer now, courtesy of a brand-new set of headlights that are a better match for the car's grille. In the back, there's a new set of taillights that have some very cool internal elements, and the tailpipes now boast a much more premium appearance. The two gas engine choices are a 1.5-liter turbocharged I4, or a 2.0-liter turbo four, and they are mated respectively to a six and 9-speed automatic transmission.

One of the biggest updates is the addition of a new trim: the Equinox RS will bring a sportier look to the SUV with its gloss-black grille, black badges and trim elements, and perfectly dark alloy wheels. On the inside, there's an RS-specific shift knob, and contrasting red stitching. Chevy's latest infotainment system carries both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, and the Equinox also has been updated with French-stitched upholstery. The staff on duty at The Car Connection praised the new model for its much better front end, and suspension tuned for all-day comfort.

Compared to other best-selling crossovers, the Equinox has a sizable amount of legroom in the back and can hold up to 30 cubic feet of cargo. That space enlarges to nearly 64 cubes when the second-row seats are folded forward, and the leather upholstery in upper-trim levels is very luxurious and eye-catching. Make sure to ask us to check out the Premier edition trim: this is where you snag up a gloss-black grille with chrome inserts, 19-inch machine-faced wheels, and high gloss black finish on the center console. The 2021 Equinox is scheduled at this time to go on sale across the U.S. In fall 2020, and we'll keep you posted right here on the blog about any updates and burgeoning buzz that occurs in the meantime!

Summer New Unit Update: Chevy Bolt to Light up the Lots One Month Early

Since the Bolt’s introduction to the masses last December, Chevrolet has been slowly rolling the car out to more states in preparation for its availability to everyone. GM representative Fred Ligouri confirmed that August will be the month where you can come see just how many cool features this plug-in offers the Eco-conscious consumer. Said to be vivaciously quick on its feet and ultimately very fun to drive, this is the vehicle on the market that is truly designed to do its best to rival a Tesla.

Offering up to 53 pure electric miles and up to 420 miles with a full charge, this newer Bolt will allow the driver to make fewer stops. All of us here In Knoxville on the lot agree that this will ultimately help you focus on your commute, and begin to visit the gas station less and less. The Bolt proudly touts a 1.5-liter direct injected high-efficiency engine, and creates its own source of additional energy when the battery runs out, by use of a gas-powered generator.

Some of the most exciting features of the Bolt are the ways that you can charge and monitor the battery. Using the Innovative Power Flow screen helps you efficiently track your driving, and Regen on Demand transfers the energy from the motion of the vehicle, ingeniously storing it in the battery while slowing the vehicle down. This is all governed by the press of a paddle mounted on the steering wheel, and the recharging options are also luring many into checking out this electrified and uniquely individual auto.

You can take the 13-hour route, where the car recharges with a 120-volt portable cord, or opt for a professionally installed charging system, that is double the charge and takes about 4 and a half hours. When it comes to electricity, some consumers are worried about rates, and you can even utilize location-based charging. Based on GPS data, the “home” setting for charging allows you to take advantage of electricity rates that are off-peak in price, and it will begin charging immediately when you leave the house. The Bolt combines looks that are very striking with aerodynamics that are finely-tuned, meant to be a bit bolder of an attitude on display than some of the other similar electric cars out there.

The reason for the Bolt becoming available quicker is big news for drivers in the Knoxville metro is largely due to range: until now, most electric cars at the entry level could not achieve more than 100 miles of driving range on a charge. Since this model can travel up to 90 miles on a 30-minute charge at a fast-charging station, it is quite the game-changer in the electric realm. Agile handing, seating for up to five, and features like a 10.2” touch screen are all within reach for a price that is almost under half of what is needed to obtain a Tesla Model S.

Ask about our 8-year warranty, that also takes you up to 100,000 miles, and takes along with it some of the worry that you may have about owning a high-tech EV. We can show you the LT and Premier trim levels that are available for the Bolt as well. Get ready to fully embrace electric, and be wowed at the features and capabilities of Knoxville's best energy-saving auto option.

Knoxville June Truck Newsflash: 2017 Chevy Silverado 3500 HD Diesel Specs + Performance

Whether you are planning on hauling heavy goods around the Concord Village Historic District or itching to take a trip out to enjoy the nearby rugged landscape, there's no doubt that you have contemplated diesel. With the introduction of the 2017 Chevrolet Silverado 3500 HD, an incredibly heavy-duty pickup truck that casts a 21+ ft shadow is presented to the willing fans of the rugged and able. Taking up 8 feet of lane width in it's widest form, this is a tried-and-tested work rig or anyone that has serious plans to build or innovate in the Knoxville metro.

The 3500HD is available in the driver's choice of dualie and nondualie, and those who regularly tow heavier-than-average loads will love the extra ability and margin the dualie offers. Spending just a bit more for the spreading of the load over four rear tires, and also adds 15 ½ inches to the width of the truck. During intense testing, the extra-wide 3500 dualie was able to come to a stop from a nearly breakneck speed of 70 MPH in just 199 feet. This is a mere 7 feet shorter than the dualie Ram 3500 Heavy Duty, and something of notice to consider when you are contemplating the need to have an able hauler that can semi-stop on a dime. If spending time in the massive wild and towing around toys that make your camping life better entices you like crazy, the upgrade to the 445-hp 6.6-liter Duramax turbo-diesel V-8 is well worth it.

The all-new engine in the 3500HD sees some notable gains over last year's Duramax mill, as horsepower rises by 48, with the trepid torque factor increasing to 910 lb-ft at 1600rpm. This is 145 lb-ft. More than last year's engine, and 530-lb-ft more than the base 6.0-liter V-8. The hood scoop is specific to this new and muscular diesel breed, and does a great job of feeding air intake for the rather large 403-cubic-inch engine. GM claims that this is a massive help as far as helping the engine run better, and keeping it cool with large loads in tow. It's not just helping out a friend in a pinch: you can tow just about anything under the sun from the Gibbs Drive Historic District on up to locations like the Cherokee National Forest.

With camping and boating season fully upon us, this is a vehicle that you won't regret having in your armada: this very impressive turbo-diesel V-8 engine has an absolutely unique power build up and prowess. The torque that is for the most part lag-free helps this 8400+ lb wonder machine move with full confidence, and the weighty Silverado did spectacularly on test track's pavement. You get from 0 to 60 mph in a lightening-fast 6.6 seconds, and the quarter-mile is accomplished in 15.1 seconds. These stats are actually in line with the Fiat 124 Spider Abarth, which is an overwhelmingly small slice of the weight at 2509 lbs.

Two cameras under each of the truck's large side-view mirrors, and another camera overlooking the bed can be installed to personalize your rig, and aid in off-road navigation. A very easy-to-use Mylink system has a very useful handful of hard buttons on the dash, as well as large knobs that make volume and tuning easy and simple. Come see us at West Chevy to take in the features of a diesel beast that can pull 11+ tons, and can wow you with it's quiet ride, as well as staunch ability to steer you into any fun or task-laden frontier.

Tired Of Mainstream? Chevy’s Special Edition SUVs Won’t Disappoint

After the takeoff of the 2016 Trax Midnight Edition, Chevrolet has decided to expand these special-edition features to two other well-known SUVs in their lineup. On sale now, the 2017 Equinox is available in two editions- Midnight and Summit White Sport. The 2017 Traverse is available in Graphite Edition. 

Senior director of automotive industry insights at Kelly Blue Book stated “Special Editions give consumers an opportunity to buy something outside of the mainstream trim designation. This lets them spend a little more for a unique model, one that often provides a higher resale value when it’s time to sell or trade the vehicle for their next purchase.” 

The Midnight and Summit White Editions of the Equinox will be available on the LT model. They will each feature an all-black grille with black Chevrolet bowties, black mirror caps, 18-inch black aluminum wheels, and jet-black perforated leather-appointed seats with memory seating. Rack crossbars have been added to the roof. 

The Traverse is offered on the 2LT model and has features such as Mosaic Black Metallic, Siren Red Tintcoat and Iridescent Pearl Tricoat exterior colors. It will sit on 20-inch Dark Charcoal wheels and also feature the all-black Chevrolet bowties. The Traverse will have a dual exhaust and integrated assist step, making it easier to get in and out of the vehicle. 

To check out one of these awesome special-edition vehicles for yourself, come visit us at West Chevrolet in Knoxville, TN today!