Chevy Multi-Flex Tailgate Brings Time Saving Functionality to Already Supreme Lineup

The Chevy Multi-Flex tailgate is a valuable asset in a war of sorts that has been brewing between full-sized pickup truck makers for quite some time now. We have observed here at West Chevy of Knoxville that engineers dedicate their careers to making sure that their brand has the competitive edge, as the battle for consumer loyalty has amped up! Improving the access to the bed and offering different ways to conquer every scenario are what the Multi-Flex was built for. 

The Multi-Flex tailgate is designed to make the workload of the truck owner that much simpler. Operating as a traditional pickup tailgate, it’s hinged at the bottom and can easily be lowered to a position aligned with the floor for easy loading- in and out. It opens using the key fob or a button inside the cab, or you can simply lower it manually with the old-school style handle directly on the tailgate. 

The tailgate comes equipped with a load stop, which comes in handy when your load is longer than the truck’s cargo box. It folds out of the tailgate’s top to form a vertical wall that can prevent loads from sliding right off the truck’s bed. The tailgate’s secondary portion drops down to enable the worker to get closer, a position that was not seen in the American pickup’s early days of existence.

When the secondary portion of the tailgate is lowered, there is another fold down section that you can open to reveal a step. This allows you an extra foothold, which makes things easier when your XXL-sized load blocks your downward vision, or when getting in and out of the truck bed. You can also lower the secondary tailgate in order to accept cargo above the box floor, which also has a fold-up load stop to assure that cargo doesn’t slide directly out of the rear during acceleration or from jolts on the road.

Once you have the secondary “half gate” folded down from the rest of the tailgate, a new area at about chest height pops out to use as a super-handy work surface. This is the ultimate spot for a laptop, quick bite to eat, or proper tunes for the upcoming tailgate party! Made from primarily aluminum, the Multi-Flex Tailgate is lightweight and not clunky like steel. We hope that you come down to check out this and all the other great features of the Silverado line-up here at West Chevy, where we have Knoxville’s best customer service and these rigs poised and ready for duty!

2021 Suburban Takes on A “Year of Rediscovering Freedom” With Changes to Assure Top-Tier Highway Cruise

The nation's best-equipped and trusty choice for hauling around seven people and even a boat - the Chevy Suburban, has just experienced change in a major way for what promises to be a great year of rediscovering freedom. This model began with an independent rear suspension that makes for a much better ride and provides a drive that does not seem as much like a long bullet train. There is also the release of the new 3.0-liter Duramax inline-six diesel that brings about great change to the Suburban's well-known thirst for petrol.

The 3.0-liter with its 277 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque can move this XXL rig around with a perfect sense of urgency, even with the trailer heavily-loaded up with summer playtime goods. Chevy's vastly talented engineers worked hard on noise cancellation techniques for this year's model, and during an out-of-town excursion, you'll notice the insulation's build contributing to a quiet and peaceful journey. Each model now gets front pedestrian braking, rear parking sensors, and automatic emergency braking with forward collision alert.

A major part of the Suburban's draw is its size, and the rear parking sensors are a great help when having to do heavy-duty negotiation from a crowded lot to simply backing up to a busy intersection first thing in the harried AM! One of the modern marvels of current automotive technology (that is a great reason to choose either the Premier or High Country trim) is adaptive cruise control, paving the road for the future and the exciting premise of autonomous driving. The interior no longer has the same infotainment screen from the Silverado that sometimes seemed a bit lost in the mass of plastic on the dash, and the new model has one that is raised up on top of the radio and heater controls.

Here you can check out the display of your Android Auto and Apple CarPlay goods and the various useful towing screens as well as navigation. The High Country trim provides the comfortable addition of perforated leather seats with heating and ventilation, and sitting in the second row allows for great views of the blue sky you've been desperate to spend quality time with via the panoramic sunroof. One of the traits that satisfied buyers love about the Suburban when stacked up to its close relative in the form of the Tahoe is the extra 1.8 inches of third seat knee-room, a game-changer for the taller passengers riding along.

All of us here at West Chevy of Knoxville agree that the improvements with the 2021 Suburban go way beyond sheer size, as it can now proudly claim to handle just as good or better as its competition while brandishing extreme daily drive potential with capability. Big vehicles never lost their draw, they just went through a bit of “teenager-style” growing pains, and as many others have remarked about life “The college years are usually best!”

What KBB Loves About the 2021 Chevy Camaro: “The Punch When You Nail the Pedal”

The staff on duty at Kelley Blue Book have been educating the auto-loving public on the best and worst attributes of cars since 1926 and had the ferocious 2021 Chevy Camaro on tap for their latest last week. Just for starters, a few of the things new this year are the wireless Apple CarPlay / Android Auto as standard and the addition of the Wild Cherry Design package. Horsepower offerings range from 275 for the base turbocharged 4-cylinder on up to 650 for the supercharged V8. It is also pointed out early in the article that something for us here at West Chevy of Knoxville and all of our customers to love is the starting price is lower than that of rivals Ford Mustang and Dodge Challenger.

There is the choice of coupe or convertible body style, and the KBB staff praised the new Camaro for its very tech-rich interior. They were thrilled with the 650-horsepower V8 nestled in the ZL1 Model, and appreciated how it does not have the sensation of a “straight line sled” like models from years past and feels a bit lighter on its feet. The testing site they picked was the famous Angeles Crest mountain roads of Southern California, then a bit of proper track time at Willow racetrack.

It was here the KBB crew noticed that the Camaro is at the core a pretty big car, and can feel even larger on narrow, winding roads. Once they got on the track, the mass immediately provided better comfort compared to what you would experience in a smaller coupe such as the Toyota 86. Their favorite attribute on the track was one that is quite understandable: the gratifying punch you get whenever you bear down and nail the gas pedal. Even the base turbocharged 4-cylinder version boasts the same output of a fully loaded V8 Camaro from just a few generations back.

 

Another favorite feature that the KBB crew saw growing on them right away was the convertible: after removing the roof, you get to bid farewell to the blind spots that are unavoidable with this shape and stature of performance auto. Inside, modern touches such as heated seats and the touch-screen infotainment system are welcome additions, and the driver-selector mode offers Snow and Ice, Tour and Sport, plus automatic climate control and a color driver-information display between the gauges.

Make sure to ask us during your test drive about upgrades like larger 8-inch touchscreen, and enhanced driver-information center. The SS model offers up magnetic ride control and dual- mode exhaust, which are both standard on ZL1 models. One thing to keep in mind is that even at the mid-range LT1 trim level, you get to enjoy the 6.2-liter V8, Brembo front-disc brakes, performance suspension, 20-inch wheels, and vented SS-style hood! The Camaro has been a legendary and lightning-fast performance car for decades, and we’re excited about just how awe-inspiring and memorable every single drive is from behind its wheel.

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!

2021 Chevy Suburban RST Spied Solo on the Road Via GM Authority

The city of Detroit has always held much clout and candor when it comes to brand-new auto releases and has seen the presentation of many star-studded vehicles over the years. GM revealed the all-new 2021 Chevy Suburban and Tahoe during a joint debut held in the motor city last year, flaunting the completely-overhauled SUVs that are available in six trim levels. The RST trim is the one that has gained much attention, due to its sportier stance and various custom touches. The staff on hand at GM Authority did already publish a blog giving curious auto enthusiasts a look at the 2021 Tahoe RST roaming around, but the 2021 Suburban RST has not been seen until now.

Based on the very popular mid-range LT trim level, the 2021 Suburban RST will add to the mix 22-inch wheels as standard, which is quite a bump up fro the 18-inch wheels that are now featured on LT and LS models. The only other 2021 Suburban model that has been able to boast 22-inch wheels as standard is the High Country, which rides on Sterling Silver premium painted wheels that also have chrome inserts. On top of new wheels, the 2021 Suburban RST also flaunts a new and unique front fascia that features a “black ice” grille finish.

The lettering, badging, and roof rails, as well as window trim, are all new, and once inside, the Suburban Rst features brand-new seats specified to the model with contrast-color stitching. The cabin also seeks a 4.2-inch diagonal color driver information center display as standard, and much of the remaining equipment is derived from the Suburban LT. Under the hood, the power is derived fro the naturally-aspirated 5.3 -Liter L84 V8 engine, that cranks out 355 horsepower and 383 lb-ft of torque. Diesel is an awesome option as always, utlilzing the 3.0-Liter I6 LM2 turbo-diesel Duramax engine, which is rated at 277 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque.

When production begins for the 2021 Suburban, it will be proudly assembled at the GM Arlington plant in Texas, which has been operating at full steam since 1954. With nearly 3,000 employees, many hard-working Americans have been able to boast a production rate of 1,200 vehicles per day. This was also the plant that produced true gems such as the 1963 Chevy Bel-air, a very unique and memorable model in the journey back through time! 

This is a vehicle that strikes us here at West Chevy of Knoxville as big on capability, connectivity, and properly getting the job done. Both the Tahoe and Suburban now come with an independent rear suspension that allows for the best in handling and cornering, as well as an available first-in-class Four Center Air Ride Adaptive Suspension that has an expert's eye and high-tech touch while adjusting the vehicle's ride height.

Driving.CA Hails 2020 Chevy Silverado 1500 Diesel For “Smooth Riding, Tops in Towing, Refined Interior”

Most of us here at West Chevy of Knoxville will agree with the sentiment that a good number of truck fans at some point will long for the benefits of diesel. That used to mean that you are completely upping the ante and going very heavy-duty, but all of the “big 3” automakers now offer small diesel for their half-ton selections, including the test model that the staff of Driving.CA had on their hands: the Chevy Silverado 1500. To find out if the diesel route is right for you, much weighs on your budget, how often you drive, and what you need the truck to accomplish.

The diesel is one of six various engines available with the Silverado; the other options are all gasoline and range from a 2.7-liter turbo-four to a 6.2-Liter V8. The diesel is a 3.0-liter Duramax inline 6-cylinder mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission, and the Driving.Ca staff calls it a “thing of sheer beauty”. It cranks out 277 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque and sees availability in four trim levels. This crew used the top-of-the-line High Country tester, which was equipped with the 5.3-liter V8. 

Resident expert Jil Mcintosh reflected that even though you may pay more for oil changes and the diesel itself, these are incredibly robust engines that can last for many years if well maintained, and possess a very solid resale value. The days of waiting for a diesel to fire all the way up have been long gone for some time, and the testing crew's model had automatic start-stop technology that will disengage the engine at a stop sign or red light. Jil was pleased with how smooth the ride was for how bulky the truck is, and the model line overall is rated for a top towing capacity of 13,400 pounds. 

The 4x4 crew cab with short bed and diesel and pull up to 9,300 pounds, touting a maximum payload of 1,870 pounds. Once inside the cabin, the team had a great appreciation for the simplicity and practical layout of the controls, and the thought put into the fact that the big dials and buttons are easy to operate while wearing gloves. When the hot days of summer come and the truck is sweltering from residing in the rays of the sun for hours, one button will drop all four windows at once for a little fresh air before the dual-zone climate control kicks in full force. 

The switch from two to four-wheel drive is done with buttons, while a dial switches easily through normal, sport, off-road, or tow-haul driving modes. Don't forget to check out the top-of-the-line High Country trim: here you enjoy heated and ventilated seats, and the new added touch of full heating. There is also a power tailgate, operated via the key fob, a button on the gate, or an interior switch: it is also at the moment the only down-and-up tailgate on the market. While these professional testers agreed that truck buyers have it good these days and everyone makes a decent machine, the Silverado diesel is the most dependable, long-lasting, and feature-rich among current offerings! 

Colorado ZR2 Bison Crowned as Overland Truck of the Year

The Overland Journal recently announced the star-studded winner of its very first overland Truck of the Year award, handing over the honors to the off-road conquering Chevy Colorado ZR2 Bison. The strong rivalry that needed to be overcome for this rallying victory was in the forms of the Honda Ridgeline, Toyota Tacoma, Nissan Frontier, Jeep Gladiator, and Ford Ranger. This testing process involved thousands of clocked miles spend both on and off-road, and heavily weighed factors such as capability, reliability, durability, payload, and even efficiency.

After a rigorous number of test drives, it was unanimously decided that the Bison is “one of the most exceptional overland trucks ever sold in North America”. Chief Editor Scott Brady reflected that “just a list of its features makes it the truck we always wanted, and even better”. The front and rear locking differentials, winch-ready steel front bumper with ¼ panel protection, full-length rock slider, and class-leading suspension were elements that checked all the needed boxes for sheer domination. Production took place seeing a collaboration with class-leading experts American Expedition Vehicles as an extreme off-road variant of the Chevy Colorado ZR2 off-road pickup, and comes with a long list of features for those who prefer dirt heavily over the highway.

As those on duty this week at GM Authority illustrated for their blog, the Bison is equipped with one of two engines: the 3.6L LGZ V6 gas engine, which cranks out 308 horsepower and 275 lb-ft of torque, or the 2.8-L LWN inline 4-cylinder turbo-diesel, which makes 181 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. Under everything resides the GMT 31XX platform, the same frame as what the GMC Canyon sports. Still offered exclusively as a production variant of the concept that was originally the 2017 ZR2 AEV, the construction takes place at the GM Wentzville factory in Missouri.

The knowledgeable staff at Automobilemag.com were amazed at the raw and practical protection power of the extra skid plates, ground clearance, approach angles, bead-locked wheels, and remote-reservoir shocks bolted onto a truck, greatly expanding the limits beyond a typical weekend off-road-capable model. There are many trails and areas at the ends of the Earth that even the most capable 4X4's struggle to conquer, even with an experienced driver at the helm. This testing team never saw the going got tough after throwing ruts, sand traps, rocky paths, drop-ins, and jutting rocks in the way, and used the locking differentials to always swiftly bail themselves out of trouble.

All of us on staff here at West Chevy of Knoxville have an extreme passion for any truck, let alone those that are always out there pushing the limits. We are proud of the Bison for snagging up yet another award in an arena where normal will never cut it, and cordially invite you to check out the entire Bison line among others this February!

West Chevy's Impala Close-Up Exam: Awards and Universal Appeal

Families and young professionals have many different needs, and sometimes a car is so versatile and appealing that models keep leaping right off the lot! When shopping for a car that will be the perfect addition for their home, some customers turn to consumer reports. A practical way to find out how a car measures up, tests from trusted readers can really help with the final decision making process. The last few years, we've noticed that how a car ranks in the awards sphere has turned many heads, and spurned a high number of purchases.

The Impala claimed one very important award from Kelley Blue Book: the 2017 5-year Cost to Own in the full-size car category. This award focuses on the total amount of vehicle-related costs that are most likely to come up during the first 5 years of ownership. Insurance, gas, and the actual depreciation of the vehicle are the most common denominators when you are calculating the ways in which the car could cost you. Attracting those who are carefully watching their spending, newlyweds, and others who want cash for items such as a home purchase, this award gives the Impala a hefty dose of appealing luster to those wanting to keep overhead low.

U.S. News and World Report awarded the Impala with the very honorable "Best Large Car for the Money" claim, and our sales and service staff here at West proudly tout the achievement. Anyone from a young professional on up to a couple with a child will seriously want to consider leaning towards a bigger vehicle: the safety, sturdiness, and appeal is what earned this particular award. When you make the decision to purchase a new car, we also recognize that you are looking for comfort, and during the longer of any journeys you are planning, may want to select a car that ranks at the top of the list.

Fortunately, the Impala was a front-runner in the comfort category as well: Kelley Blue Book listed it in the final selection of the "10 most Comfortable Cars under $30k." We absolutely deem the back-seat room as limo-grade, and the trunk boasts 19 cubic feet of space. Rounding corners and navigating the ever-present Knoxville on-ramps are going to take place effortlessly, and with far more composure than most large sedans.

10 standard air bags as well as a NHTSA 5-star overall vehicle score for safety will leave you feeling like you're doing the best looking out for your family possible, as well as the available rear vision camera. Collision Alert and Lane Departure Warning as well as Side Blind Zone Alert are features that will up the safety factor, and really show their value in extremely busy metro areas such as Knoxville.

One of the biggest value additives for someone that has a family when they buy a vehicle is feeling as if they can use technology to assure that none of their own encounters any unnecessary harm. Come down to West Chevy and see how this 305-horsepower 3.6-L V6 will treat you on the road, and why so many choice entities hailed it in their awards list!

Chevy Tahoe and Suburban Gain Street Look and Wow Factor With RST Special Edition Option

We guarantee that your summer is getting ready to get drastically more exciting: Chevy has just introduced a new special edition for the Suburban and Tahoe: the street-performance Rally Sport Truck. You can opt for a new performance package that ups the ante with a 420-hp, 6.2-L V-8 engine, Magnetic Ride Control with performance calibration, and get the shifting job done with the all-new and very able Hydra-Matic 10L80 10-speed automatic transmission. Looking at the many different types of needs from customers, there are varying combinations of tech features and awesome performance that attracts drivers to these sturdy and spacious dominators of the open road.

The introduction of the RST is specifically honed for those who crave increased performance, and will be available on the Tahoe and Suburban models in the fall of 2017. Heavily inspired by trends in the aftermarket realm, most of the chrome trim has been eliminated for an appearance more geared to stellar street performance. There are also body-color grille surround and door handles, gloss-black grille and mirror caps, black roof rails, Chevy bowties and badging, as well as new window trim. You also get the very cool 22-inch wheels with Bridgestone P285/45R 22 tires to wrap them.

This is the first time a Tahoe will sport the 6.2L V-8, which cranks out an estimated 420 horsepower along wth 460 lb-ft of torque. The engine utilizes the efforts of 3 state-of-the-art technologies: direct injection, Active Fuel Management, and continuously variable valve timing, to make the most of power, efficiency, and torque for the best in performance. Paired with the 6.2L V-8 is an all-new 10-speed automatic transmission, which maximizes engine power during the process of climbing acceleration. Top gear ratio on this transmission is lowered specifically for this make, to improve efficiency by cutting down on revolutions of the engine at 50+ miles per hour.

Don't hold out on the lake outings or any other looming duties you may be filling in on for your contractor friend: the RST Performance Package will offer a towing capacity of 8,400 pounds, and the truck gets up to 60 MPH in just 6 quick seconds. Come down and see why the RST Package will drastically escalate your Suburban or Tahoe Experience: the suspension delivers both improved body-motion control during cornering, and a noticeably more comfortable ride during a long highway cruise.

Chevy has been the best-selling full-size SUV brand for more than 3 decades, and accounted for half of full-size SUV purchases in 2016. Come visit us to see how your Knoxville driving experience is going to have a lot more muscle in every mile covered, and why the Chevy namesake sells more than 4.5 million cars and trucks every year!

On-Location Rigorous Road Report: Chevy Cruze Diesel In Action

During the times right after the financial crisis, it seemed that many manufacturers including GM were not really pushing smaller cars. The Japanese and Koreans were heavily dominating the production, but then a pivotal event happened that made many want to create a stake in taking the small car game: gas prices were rising significantly. Here at West Chevrolet, we recognize the finer elements of competition from contenders such as the Toyota Corolla and Honda Civic. When the Cruze debuted in 2009, it arrived with a certain flair that consumers were very hungry for, and it became a 3-million unit selling hit.

The second-generation Cruze roared to life on roads nationwide two years ago, and possessed a 1.6-liter diesel four-cylinder model, equipped with a choice of nine-speed automatic, or six-speed manual transmission. It vigorously churns out 137-hp, with 240-lb-ft of torque. The torque factor is one of the reasons why many power-hungry drivers turn to diesel to begin with, and GM proudly stands behind the “clean” techniques used to manufacture and produce the Cruze. From tubing in the Smokies to renting a pedal boat from our friends at Adventure Outdoors, you're going to love driving in this modern and well-behaved diesel to your next Knoxville destination for outstanding summer fun.

Road testers that we were in touch with had used the six-speed manual on their planned jaunt, and this is the version that clocks in at around 52 mpg on the highway. The first thing noticed once you are behind the wheel is a sense of solid familiarity: switching from any variety of cars within the brand still gives the driver a sense of consistency and pleasant sameness. The first impression that the driver gains from the interior is that a bit of extra flash is very possible to achieve in the compact genre.

Getting the car out on the open road for a true regimen provided a lot of real-life insight on the car’s speed. Chevy itself claimed that the car’s 8 second 0 to 60 climb isn’t mind-blowing, but the high mileage factor on the highway really won us over. The steering was designed with smoothness in mind, and the trunk space is enough for a large family weekend outing, or full-fledged grocery haul. As you are embarking on whatever journey is on your itinerary, you know that you will be basking in audio from a prime supplier: the Infotainment system in the Cruze is second only to the system in the Audi car line.

If you seriously dig diesel but don't want a bug, this is the only option you've got for a smaller car, but that is honestly great news! Chevy uses a bit different emissions technology than VW, and among the different requirements is a urea-tank replenishment every 1,000 miles. What you are really getting here is a larger car that has been shrunk down to a smaller package, and a car that can provide 600 miles to a tank for you. Come to the lot during the deliciously hot Knoxvillle summer this year, and check out the diesel point of entry's awesome offering from GM: The robust and feature-filled Cruze.

Chevrolet Owners Can Now Go Unlimited!

In 2016 Chevrolet owners used more than 4 million gigabytes of data, increasing data usage by 200% from 2015. To put into perspective 4 million gigabytes is equivalent to streaming more than 17.5 million hours of videos. Chevrolet owners have come to appreciate the ability to stream videos, send emails, or play games online using OnStar 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot.

Among Chevrolet owners, Tahoe and Suburban owners used three time more data than a year ago. Good news for Knoxville drivers: due to the spike in data usage Chevrolet will be offering a groundbreaking plan enabled by AT&T across its entire vehicle lineup!

“We have contractors bidding jobs in their Silverados, families streaming movies in their Suburbans and Malibus and everyone tapping into the cloud for music,” said Alan Batey, president of GM North America and global head of Chevrolet. “With the most affordable unlimited 4G LTE data plan in the auto industry, the widest availability of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and new connected services like OnStar AtYourService, our momentum can only grow.”

The unlimited pre-paid plan will be available for only $20 per month starting March 3rd. Visit West Chevrolet in Knoxville, TN to learn more about how to get the unlimited data plan!

For pricing and plans available go to: https://www.onstar.com/us/en/4glte-subscriber.html

The All-New Colorado ZR2 Is Ready To Hit The Trails

Good news for Knoxville off-roading fanatics… the Colorado ZR2 will be here soon and we are more than ready to get behind the wheel! Featuring more technology than any other midsize pickup in its segment, this desert-ready performance truck will undoubtedly reset the bar for off-road trucks.

The ZR2 sports a much wider track and lifted suspension than the standard Colorado for better performance over rocks and other obstacles off-roaders are familiar with. The front and rear bumpers have been altered for better off-road clearance. Other exclusive features include an available diesel engine, front and rear locking differentials, and the Multimatic Dynamic Suspensions Spool Valve (DSSV) damper technology.

Mark Reuss, executive vice president, Global Product Development, Purchasing and Supply Chain states, “Our engineers have been incredibly successful developing Corvette and Camaro performance variants with broad performance envelopes. The ZR2 applies that same philosophy to off-road performance. You can go rock crawling Saturday, desert running on Sunday, and comfortably drive to work on Monday. This truck can do it all, and do it all well.”

Ready to put it to the test on the trails? Us too. It’ll be rolling into West Chevy soon, so be on the lookout!

4 Fall Road Trips To Take In Your Chevy Impala

Fall is officially here and what better time to take a road trip than now? We picked a few places for you...they’re some of the best places to road trip from Knoxville, Tennessee. Whether you’re looking for a getaway with some friends or a weekend with the kids, each of these destinations have a little something for everybody. Pack up your Chevy Impala and hit the road!


Atlanta, Georgia (3 hours)

With tons of family-friendly activities, Atlanta is one of our favorite places to take the kiddos. Some of the things to put on the top of your “To-Do” list while you’re there include the Georgia Aquarium (one of the world’s largest), World Coca-Cola, the world headquarters of CNN, Piedmont Park, the Centennial Olympic Park, and The Jimmy Carter Library and Museum… we could go on for the entire three hour drive it takes to get there. Add all of this to an impressive culinary scene, vibrant (and welcomed) street art, and hip ambiance- you’re guaranteed to have a peachy time.

Chattanooga, Tennessee (1 hour 45 minutes)

A perfect combination of outdoor scenery and indoor activities, Chattanooga is another great place for a weekend with the kids. Just under a two hour drive, this city is set right along the Tennessee River and in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains. Points of interest include Lookout Mountain, Rock City, the Creative Discovery Museum, and the Ruby Falls. No matter where you end up, we promise you won’t be disappointed with the views.

Asheville, North Carolina (2 hours)

Asheville, otherwise known as the Land of the Sky, is located in North Carolina and is known for its vibrant atmosphere, happy-go-lucky residents and colorful history. Whether you’re looking for a getaway with some friends or a family-filled weekend, you’ll find exactly what you need here. We highly suggest visiting Biltmore Estate and Blue Ridge Parkway. Additionally, the brewery tours are a must; Asheville also calls itself “Beer City USA” and considering it has more breweries per capita than any other city in America, they can most certainly get away with it. Great beer, great views and great food... What more could you ask for?

Gatlinburg, Tennessee- The Great Smoky Mountains (1 hour)

Gatlinburg is the ultimate mountain town located in eastern Tennessee and there is no better time to visit than now. Rent a cabin and enjoy a weekend in the woods. The foliage is unlike any other- whether you’re gazing from your deck with a cup of coffee in hand or hiking through it. Want to go out and about? Go apple picking, play a round of golf, or visit the Ole Smoky Candy kitchen!

How One-Pedal Driving Gives The 2017 Bolt EV Even More Range

A recent announcement by General Motors states that the 2017 Bolt EV will offer “one-pedal driving”, which uses regenerative braking to maximize the vehicle’s total range. Unsure what any of this means? Boiled down, regenerative braking gives this electric vehicle the ability to recapture large amounts of energy and use it to recharge the battery. If the regenerative braking system is powerful enough, it can almost completely cut out the need of using the brake pedal, hence, we have one-pedal driving.

“Bolt EV customers who want an engaging experience will love the thrill of one-pedal driving. They will be able to tailor the vehicle to their preferred driving style and maximize their range.” said Bolt EV Chief Engineer, Josh Tavel.

A test run by Chevrolet engineers found that nearly 5 percent of of range can be added to the Bolt EV when using one-pedal driving. Drivers are able to customize the experience to fit their needs with four different modes, which include:

• Operating in Drive and easing off the accelerator
• Operating in Drive and using the Regen on Demand paddle on the back of the steering wheel
• Operating in Low and easing off the accelerator
• Operating in Low and using the Regen on Demand paddle in tandem

According to a recent Chevrolet press release, number 1 provides the lowest level of regen braking and still requires the use of the brake pedal to bring the vehicle to a stop. Numbers 2-4 are progressively stronger and, when using them in certain situations, the driver will be able to stop the Bolt without the brake pedal.

Electric vehicle enthusiasts are excited about this technology making its way to the Chevrolet Bolt. By using regenerative braking, this vehicle has the ability to surpass its already 200+ miles of range… and that’s what it’s all about!

We’ll keep you posted on its arrival to Knoxville!

Lots Of Changes Coming Along With The 2017 Colorado

The Chevrolet Colorado was brought into the market for the 2015 model year and has experienced unparalleled success ever since. Now, the 2017 model is headed our way and is even better than before. The 2017 Chevrolet Colorado will offer an all-new V-6 engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. This update creates a midsize pickup unlike any other in its segment.

Anita Burke, Colorado chief engineer, stated “Customers made the Colorado an overnight success and it remains one of the industry’s hottest-selling products. That fast success has justified our continued investment in midsize pickups, introducing new features for our customers such as the class-exclusive diesel engine, advanced technologies like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and now a class-leading V-6 and eight-speed automatic powertrain combination.”

Currently the most fuel-efficient pickup in the nation, the Colorado has an EPA-estimated 31 mpg on the highway when equipped with the diesel engine. The new V-6 engine includes updated technologies and is accompanied by the eight-speed automatic transmission. This combination will lead to an overall improved driving experience- pulling harder during acceleration and offering a sophisticated, clean ride on the highway.

As mentioned, the Colorado has had tons of success and we have the numbers to back it up. Chevrolet is currently on track to sell more than 160,000 Colorado’s since it was brought into the market 24 months ago. The Colorado also makes up an overall 23 percent of the midsize segment.

The 2017 Colorado will be headed to West Chevrolet in Knoxville, TN towards the end of this year and you’re not going to want to miss it! In the meantime, come check out our current pickups, like the 2016 Colorado and 2016 Silverado 1500!

The 2017 Volt Is Here!

The 2017 Chevrolet Volt has recently made its appearance and brought a few changes along with it. First introduced in 2010, the Chevrolet became a part of the plug-in hybrid family and has continued to evolve into one of the most popular extended-range electric vehicles on the market. 

This four-door hatchback is powered by a 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine with two AC generators that contribute to its propulsion. As a purely electric car, it is able to run about 400 plus miles and and has an EV range of about 53 miles in Normal mode- well above some of its competitors. Using a 240-volt source, the Volt takes just 4.5 hours to gain a full charge.

Other modes available (with the push of a console button) include Sport, Mountain and Hold. Sport is very similar to normal, the main difference being a sharpened throttle response. Mountain mode helps to the battery to stay in reserve, assisting the engine when ascending steep grades- great for those gorgeous drives through the Smoky Mountains. And finally, Hold mode will save any leftover battery charge for later use whenever complete electric driving is necessary for the driver. Both trims offered by Chevy- LT and Premier- have access to all four modes.

Overall, the Chevrolet Volt is a great option for those in search of a green-car. It’s design and engineering ensures that you will get where you need to go- all while being kind to the environment.

Come give one a test drive today at West Chevrolet in Knoxville, TN!

2017 Colorado ZR2 Is Stepping Up In The Off-Roading Game

The new Colorado has been on sale for a few years now and has offered strong performance capabilities and solid sales for Chevrolet, even winning Motor Trend Truck of the Year. However, when compared to the Toyota Tacoma, some will say just a little something is missing- like its off-roading abilities. Chevy has apparently taken this into consideration, as they were caught testing a rougher and tougher version of the vehicle- something all Knoxville off-roaders will love.

At the Los Angeles Auto Show in 2014, Chevrolet revealed a Colorado ZR2 concept, proving that something was definitely in the works (although they insisted it was just a concept). These recent pictures have us thinking otherwise.

Although the front of the vehicle was heavily camouflaged, it seems as if a new bumper has been added, along with a pretty robust skid plate underneath. The wheel arches are certainly more aggressive and the overhangs have been reduced- to avoid any kind of scraping. Additional suspension upgrades are still unknown but historically, ZR2 suspension packages added lift and offered shocks, sway bars and much more.

As far as power goes, it’s expected that the Colorado ZR2 will be paired with the 3.6-liter V-6 gas or perhaps the 2.8-liter turbo-diesel engine.

Be on the lookout for the 2017 Chevy Colorado ZR2 the end of this year...we’ll keep you updated!

'Vette Fanatics- A Mid-Engine Corvette Is Coming

Calling all Knoxville ‘Vette fanatics! After a recent string of spy photos, it’s looking like the next Corvette isn’t going to be your typical C7 Stingray, but rather a mid-engine model! We know what you’re thinking- you’ve heard these rumors before- but it’s looking like there may be some truth behind it this time around.

Sporting heavy camouflage (C7 body panels and all), the new Corvette was caught in the act while test-driving at GM’s Milford Proving Grounds and a few things point to the fact that this one may not be so ordinary. The biggest hint- the vehicle’s rear hatch looks as if it is missing it’s glass cover so if there is an engine behind the seats, this would ensure that it is receiving enough cool air.

Just last year, GM engineers and executives were seen testing a prototype that combined the C7 Corvette and the Holden Commodore SSV, so it seems as if this mid-engine vehicle has been a long time coming.
We will be sure to keep you posted but while you wait, be sure to stop by and see us at West Chevrolet in Knoxville, TN to give the 2016 Corvette Stingray Coupe a test drive!

Chevrolet Lays Out Upcoming Refreshed 2017 Trax Small SUV

Technology enhancements complement redesign for Chevy in competitive segment

At the recent Chicago Auto Show, Chevrolet unveiled its redesigned Trax for the 2017 model year. In what is quite possibly the most competitive automotive segment in America, Chevy puts its foot down to lay some “Trax” toward the future of small SUVs.

As the outgoing model was in the top three small SUVs globally, the new 2017 Trax will look to take that momentum and offer even more to the small SUV owners across the globe and especially near Knoxville, Tenn. Let’s start with what you see when you first approach the new Trax — the exterior.

New headlamps and an updated grille reflect the style of other such Chevrolet vehicles as the Malibu and Cruze. This helps give the Trax more of a Chevrolet identity and makes it even more of a part of the Chevrolet family.

The entire front fascia is new and features sleek headlamps and available halogen reflector headlamps. Chrome accents the outboard fog lamp bezels. Premier trims of the 2017 Trax are offered with 18-inch aluminum wheels.

The interior sees more premium enhancements. Featured is the new seven-inch MyLink color touchscreen. The instrument cluster has a new gauge display with prominent analog speedometer and tachometer readouts with digital displays.

“Customers will really notice the elevation in the Trax’s interior design and attention to detail,” Steve Kim, Trax’s designer, said. “It’s an environment that transcends segment boundaries, offering rich, premium appointments and seamless integration of the technologies they rely on most.”


The connectivity also sees an upgrade for 2017. The new Chevy Trax will be available with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration. With this feature, you can use approved apps from your iPhone or Android through the 2017 Trax.

Other technology includes Keyless Open and Start and the Chevrolet mainstay 4G LTE Wi-Fi connectivity. These changes make for an exciting possibility that is the 2017 Trax. As a Knoxville Chevy dealer, West Chevrolet is ready for any new Chevrolet vehicle that comes along. To reserve a 2017 Trax or to schedule a Chevy test drive near Knoxville, contact West Chevrolet online or give us a call at 865-970-9378.

Shop new Chevy Trax for sale near Knoxville

2016 Colorado with Top Honors Is Total Package for Knoxville Truck Fans

Motor Trend 2016 Truck of the Year, most fuel-efficient pickup is the real deal at West

Rarely does a truck fan find everything they are looking for in a midsize truck. Perhaps you have to sacrifice efficiency to get four-wheel drive, or maybe the truck is unproven. With the 2016 Chevy Colorado at West Chevrolet serving Knoxville, TN, other midsize trucks scramble to keep up.

Back-to-back champion

One of the most sought-after awards in the automotive industry was claimed by a second straight year by the Chevy Colorado. Motor Trend awarded its 2016 Motor Trend Truck of the Year to the new diesel variant of the 2016 Colorado.

The 2016 Colorado manages to combine the ruggedness and dependability of a pickup truck with the technology and refinement of a sedan. New technology for Chevrolet — including smartphone integration for both Android and Apple by March 2016 — such as available 4G LTE Wi-Fi and active safety features make the Colorado the ideal camping vehicle.

Fuel-efficiency is not always an easy hill to climb, but the 2016 Colorado with the new 2.8-liter Duramax diesel engine climbs it the highest and the best. The 2016 Colorado is the most fuel-efficient pickup truck in America, getting up to 31 mpg with the diesel engine on front-wheel drive models. However, if you opt for the capability of the Colorado’s four-wheel drive system, you’ll still get up to 23 mpg combined and 29 on the highway.

The new diesel engine — that’s what helped separate the Colorado from the competition. No competitor offers a midsize truck with a diesel engine. Already, that makes the new 2016 Colorado diesel in a class of its own. The available towing package means you can tow up to 7,700 pounds, powerful for a compact truck.

New 2016 Chevy Colorados near Knoxville are arriving every day to West Chevrolet! To experience the award-winning prowess that is a 2016 Chevy Colorado, contact West Chevrolet online 24/7 or give us a call at 865-970-9378.

Shop new 2016 Colorados near Knoxville, TN!