2018 Chevy Traverse RS Delivers Top-rate Performance, First-class Cargo Room

During the winter months here at West Chevy in Knoxville, some of you may picture us in a group around the table, trying to stay warm, sometimes shoveling a bit of snow, and having more time on our hands than usual. While this is a funny way to envision things, it is actually far from the truth! We are loaded up for the New Year with excellent financing options, new models on the lot, and are anxious to offer test drives for those of you making the move to purchase. One of the very exciting and feature-filled additions to the 2018 mix is the brand new Traverse RS. Proudly touting turbocharged performance and aggressive new styling options, it adds an element of very thrilling-to-drive charm into the existing midsize SUV category.

Based on the redesigned 2018 Traverse, the RS boasts a front-running maximum cargo room of 98.2 cubic feet, more technology options than the previous model, and an enhanced list of safety features to effectively protect you and your passengers. Some customers noticed during years past that the Traverse could use a release that provided a bit more of a street-inspired appearance, and this comfortable and connected version offers up integrated options for every lifestyle. The unique design element that really allows the RS to stand apart from the crowd is the black grille, followed up closely by black window trim, roof rails, and bowtie emblems, as well as a 20-inch aluminum wheel set finished with a dark Android hue.

The RS is the very first in the Traverse family to offer turbocharged performance, providing a very rich and spirited driving experience, with a unique breed of punch and off-the-line engagement. A direct-injected Ecotec 2.0-liter turbo engine completes the task of generation up to 257 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque, paired to a 9-speed automatic transmission. Estimated fuel economy is 20 mpg for the city, and 26 mpg on the highway, a standing accomplishment for a vehicle with the solidity and cargo space of the Traverse RS.

Many customers that we have talked to rank comfort as the highest quality on their list, as they truly want to feel at home while on longer travels. The Traverse RS provides Jet Black Leather-appointed seating, heated front seats, and tri-zone automatic climate control to keep everyone snug and in good spirits. Ask us about how you can also get hooked up with the Bose Premium 10-speaker audio system: there is no better way to assure that you have a pleasurable drive than by having ample capabilities for the tunes.

Remote Keyless Entry is also a lifesaver for many who may be running a bit late, and safety features such as Rear Cross Traffic Alert will solidify peace of mind for you during any tense moments in your commute. You'll also have the awesome added safety feature of a 360-degree camera on board: it is now more pertinent than ever to give the area around you a thorough check before embarking on the road!

2019 Camaro Could Very Well Feature Seven-Speed Originating From 'Vette

As the promise of a bit warmer weather bears down on the people of Knoxville and staff here at West Chevy, we are beginning to envision the driest of roads, budding flowers, and greener grass. Along with this also comes thoughts about sportier models of cars: we understand the popularity of crossover SUVs and sedans, because they really do seem to be among the most practical of choices out there. But admittedly, there are times when raw power, the ability to maneuver around corners like a true boss, and amazing speeds off the line really have their place. Daydreams about taking corners at very fast paces in cars such as the legendary Camaro are bound to instantly cure the winter blues of just about any racing enthusiast!

The folks at Autoweek blog recently reported that the 2019 Chevy Camaro SS will come with either a six or seven-speed manual transmission, as well as the option for a standard 8-speed automatic. Other sources say that it could very well be the seven-speed from the Corvette but that it may not be identical: The 'Vette incorporates a Tremec TR-6070 transmission, mounted in the rear. What the Camaro puts to use is more standard form of engine-mounted transmission, so the packaging would need to have slight differences, even if the assorted components from the TR-6070 make the full transition.

For 2019, many have noticed that the Camaro only has one 6.2-liter engine listed, and this creates a bit of a gray area regarding future placement of the 650-hp ZL1. Most of us here speculate that Chevy is going to be looking to get higher mileage numbers out of it, and a cruising gear with triple overdrive could accomplish that feat. There could also be a chance that maybe a fully new line of Camaro variant that produces higher horsepower could be on the drawing board for the future. If this does happen to be the case, it would provide a hefty rival for the Ford Shelby GT500 Mustang, which is scheduled to make an appearance next year as well.

One transmission type that was not discussed In any of the spec documents was the 10-speed automatic. Ford and GM co-developed the 10-speed gearbox, and it was first introduced to the driving public by Chevy in the 2017 Camaro Zl1. Ford has equipped the F-150 and expedition with it, and there is still a but of uncertainty regarding the transmission issue. We definitely expect the 2019 Camaro model to arrive with tweaked exterior styling, and may switch up its equipment enough to make way for a more affordable V-8 powered car.

Spy shots from last year show that due to both front and rear being covered in camouflage, there will probably be a full refresh of the exterior. New headlights would make sense, perhaps a new grille up front, and new taillights would also be plausible. We understand that a few staunch critics thought that newer Camaros have not looked very different from older models, but it was important to the brand that the familiar namesake carried on, even during periods of advancement. We will keep everyone posted on all of the news surrounding the upcoming 2019 model, and will be festering a large amount of excitement: this is a vehicle that has been the winning part of the formula for numerous victory laps over the years!

West Chevy's Virtual Track Watch: 2019 Corvette ZR1 Outruns Famed Ford GT

Knoxville residents have been dealing with some below-average temps lately, and while we are not miserable, are surely keeping our daydreams about spring revved up in full-force. Bombing corners, looking at track schedules, and examining up-close the powerful engines that drive the track ponies are all top-notch pastimes for warm weather. The Virginia International Speedway has long been a proving grounds for those who love exhilarating levels of speed, and a firm anchor on the East Coast for various types of racing action. First-class excitement such as the Pirelli World Challenge, MotoAmerica Championship of Virginia, and Grassroots MotorsportsMagazine's Hyperfest Tire Rack Car Challenge are all on tap to curb your urge for the best in racing excitement.

Recently chosen by Car and driver as one of the top six road courses in the nation, this is where the Ford GT Supercar set a production lap record. This year, our famed 2019 Corvette ZR1 actually aced the task of shattering that record! The Chevy team was out on the track recently honing their craft with test driver Jim Mero, and the 755-hp 6.2-liter supercharged V8 clocked a time of 2:37.25 for the completion of the 4.1-mile circuit. Dominating over the GT's time by 1.37 seconds, this is an achievement that all of us here at West Chevy in Knoxville were heartily rooting for. Both the Ford and Chevy cars were showroom spec grade, and were not equipped with any performance enhancements while getting the job done.

The ZR1 boasted the addition of the ZTK Performance Package, which provides summer-only tires, a track-focused tune for suspension, and a downforce-producing aero kit. There are many rumors flying around this year that GM is set to complete work on a mid-engine supercar, which may be the Corvette's replacement next year. Some think the 'Vette has pushed the limits of performance for a design incorporating the use of a front engine, but last year, Road and Track claimed excitedly that this is the “Fastest street car GM has ever made”. They also claimed that the ZR1 is the  “True King of the Hill” among all of the healthy contenders that make up the track realm.

One of the first things you'll notice is the two gaping openings in the front of the cover: these combine forces to work hard overtime to efficiently extrude the hot air pouring out of the engine bay. In terms of how power is created, the ZR1's new pushrod V8 features a 52-percent larger supercharger than the LT4 found in the Z06. This is also the very first incorporation of GM's dual injection system in a vehicle, paving the way for the generation of 755 horsepower, and 715 lb-ft of torque.

The estimated top speed for next year's ZR1 is right at around 201 miles per hour, and any track-savvy steering professional will notice a large difference in the handling, with the presence of 355 section rear tires. Many are watching in amazement to see just how the car with the most carbon fiber ever packed into a vehicle will fare during lap times, and the record-setting performance in Virginia sure fares as a powerful and poised starting point! 

Midsize Truck Buyer's Tip Feature: Colorado ZR2 Nabs Cars.com's “Best Pickup of 2018”

As usage of internet and mobile devices has skyrocketed in the last decade, many auto experts are “taking to the blog” to share their opinions, test drive stats, and leading features that many new cars provide for the customer. There are so many great sources for car news and updates these days, that it can be a bit difficult to keep track, and we enjoy checking up on the most respected of the lot for our daily news. With everyone in a bit of a “truck frenzy” over the past few years, many of our frequent customers will come see as at West Chevy and ask about the awards and achievements that each different vehicle has gleaned.

The Colorado ZR2 was named by Cars.com and PickupTrucks.com as the Best Pickup Truck of 2018, and the editors gave it praise for being an “almost perfect combination of passion and technology”, while also claiming that it is quite possibly the most distinctive vehicle to come along in years. To be competitive in the current midsize truck market, launching a vehicle that is like everyone else's simply does not allow for success. One of the reasons why the ZR2 has won over so many followers is it's reputation for precision handling, combined with a list of off-road features and most truck-specific tech options of any other truck this type.

The ZR2 sports a three-and-a-half inch wider track, and suspension that has been lifted by two inches. Just two years ago, the ZR2 was the only off-roader in the nation that was available with a very torquey yet fuel efficient oil-burner. Part of the reason why the ZR2 has so much potential and prowess in mud and other off-road scenarios is its size: snug only begins to define just how perfect it lunges forward in any type of setting. There are times when the ability to have a huge haul is tremendous, but having the vital ability to feel a sense of balance and precision is primo in an off-road scenario.

Prepare to check out just how awesome the truck is that has sold more than 300,000 units over the last three years, and has also added very futuristic technology to effectively reach a new group of customers who are passionate about off-roading. The presence of both front and rear locking differentials, option for diesel engine, and first ever application of Multimatic Dynamic Suspensions Spool Valve damper technology are all other reasons that the ZR2 was the show-stealing top pick of the year.

The spool valve damper technology makes use of a tube full of oil and a metal plunger in the shock absorber. As the fluid inside the shock is pushed up or down, the resulting force allows the fluid to pass through the tube, and the wheels to go up and down in a very precise fashion. Come see why the ZR2 can provide for you the best of sturdy support and performance, whether you are rock crawling, out for a daily drive, or getting ready to experience the thrills of a tight two-track trail at a place like nearby Windrock Park!

The Battle at Hand and Chevy's Knoxville Formula for Rivaling Moxie

During the month of January at West Chevy, there are some long stretches of time spent in our respective “war rooms”: this is when the competition has carefully laid out their plans to try and dominate their markets for the year! Ford, Chevy, and Ram have all rolled out revamped full-size pickup trucks for sale this year, and there will definitely be a showdown of sorts to compete through. Ford and Chevy have battled it out head-to-head for years, with Ram products hot on their trail month after month. Our prized Chevy Silverado is going to debut in just a few short weeks at the Detroit Auto Show, and will go on sale later in the year. Here are a few of the most important things to take note of regarding our competition, and why we feel Chevy is the best contender to diligently cross the finish line!

During 2017, Ford Trucks were celebrating their first full year of sales for the brand new F-150 pickup. This is a number that has been the best-selling vehicle in the US for over 40 years, and finished last season with a high dose of success. But, it's important to note that last year had a bit of a bumpy start, as the new truck assembled with lightweight aluminum met skepticism from some diehard truck fans. The F-series has been around since 1948, and a massive redesign took place 3 years ago when the 13^th version was introduced. For many customers nationwide, Ford is the maker of the quintessential and most road-worthy pickup, but we feel that our expertly-designed Silverado can eventually stop this tough competitor dead in its tracks!

The Dodge Ram 1500 is definitely a bit less expensive than the F-150 or Silverado, and many loyal truck lovers purchase it model after model. The Ram 1500 has big-rig styling that gives it a defined and aggressive stance, an interior with some of the coolest modern styling around, and some pretty hefty bonus points in the suspension department. One area where it falls short is the towing capacity: it is less than either the F-150 or Silverado. This is a very important category in the game of truck appeal: many who are frequently camping or in contractor's shoes need that hearty pull potential.

Over the past week, Business Insider was righteously excited enough about the New Year's events to begin an intro with the words, “Behold, the 2019 Silverado!”. Those in the auto industry will get their first real look in Detroit in just a few weeks, but a pre-reveal took place for some in Dallas late last year. Chevy truck lines date back an entire century, and the Silverado namesake is currently headed into its fourth generation. Just one of the many areas where we outlap the competition is with the 4G LTE WiFi connection on board, as well as the impeccably up-to-date and easy to use Infotainment system. Ask us about how incredible the Silverado Custom model is: it's your ticket to 20-inch aluminum wheels, body-color surround, locking tailgate, OnStar Guidance, a 7.0-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and power adjustable and heated side view mirrors.

If you are really looking to up the ante and get your hands on one of the most feature-filled trucks in existence, the High Country model quenches your appetite for rugged durability by offering up chrome running boards, 20-inch chrome wheels, front and rear body-color bumpers, spray-on bed liner, heated and ventilated 12-way power seats, and an 8-inch touchscreen display. Safety is always a prime concern for anyone in the market for a new truck, and the 2018 Chevy Silverado received the highest overall rating from the NHTSA, which is five stars. With Teen Driver and rear view camera now standard on all models, you'll have a pretty good idea of whether or not the younger ones in your troupe are completing their drive safely, and if there are any rapid changes taking place in your backup zone!  

Taking the Driver-less Challenge: Self-Driving Bolt Ready for Testing Minus Steering Wheel

As the race to provide a car that can fully function without a driver continues to heat up, many Knoxville residents are wondering just how long it will really be until traditional driving really becomes a thing of the past. To many of us on location here at West Chevy, there is nothing better than firmly grabbing hold of the wheel, going through the gears until you hit optimum speed, and feeling everything the pavement has to offer with full-forced results. Just this year, we marveled at the release of the new Blade Runner movie: the technology of the future is definitely portrayed well, and stokes our imagination with a fervor.

As the future collides with the very traditional driving mantra, not all that many skilled drivers are used to will be lost! On long trips, passengers, as well as drivers, will soon be sleeping, and the journey will be mapped out long beforehand. GM has now made the move to officially ask the government to approve test fleets of the latest Chevy Bolt version, which is sans steering wheel, accelerator, or brake pedal. This type of approval is necessary before any manufacturer can operate a fully driver-less vehicle for various types of commercial use.

During November, GM stated that it expected to have the ability to transport goods as well as people with self-driving vehicles in large metro areas sometime during 2019. Since the acquisition of Cruise Automation during spring of 2016, GM and Cruise have worked hard to develop four different generations of autonomous Chevy Bolts. As things progress rapidly, and other beta tests have been completed, the latest version has absolutely no steering wheel, and there are no pedals with which to speed up or slow down. The Doors open and close automatically, and LiDAR software fulfills the duties of sensor and laser-guidance technology.

Before a vehicle can be slated to transport people, it has to complete a rigorous standards testing that is created and mandated by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. One legal issue is that those standards always require strict compliance with human driver tests, as well as manual steering, braking, and acceleration performance. NHTSA has had no chief former administrator on duty since their previous expert departed during late November of 2016, to take on a role with a San Francisco autonomous technology firm.

Nonetheless, it is now very evident that traditional driving will soon be changed forever. Until then, we'll still be in love with all of the driver-controlled options here at West Chevy, and the feel that you do get when hitting the open road for some solitude. As advancements on the Bolt continue down the pipeline, we are poised to keep everyone updated on how a hands-free environment will make the trip less strenuous, and ultimately change the landscape for transportation permanently!

“Macomb Daily” Praises Test Drive with the Big and Bold 2018 Chevy Tahoe

Over recent times, many brands have focused on making the smallest and most Eco-friendly cars imaginable. There are scores of customers who are interested in the most fuel-efficient and scaled-down vehicles in existence, and to be fair, the offerings have been excellent. The almighty dollar governs many purchases, and it is quite understandable that the bottom line and mileage are going to be a deciding factor for scores of customers that need a new car. But some good news for 2018 and consumers right here in Knoxville is that you can still “Go big” and get your hands on a full-size SUV that is still available, and the 2018 Chevy Tahoe is one of the choice contenders for your next purchase.

Matt Myftiu of the Macomb Daily recently was given the opportunity to test drive a new Tahoe, and came back with a very glowing opinion. There is nothing subtle about the Tahoe, and its size as well as its bulk fares as a positive. It is still shorter than the extended-length Chevy Suburban, and the three rows provide seating for up to nine. There are also variations in the interior that seat 7, with captain's chairs situated in the middle of the row. This design was billed by Matt as nice and roomy, with very easy access to the third row.

People and cargo are going to be two of the precious commodities that you are moving around in your new Tahoe, and the cargo space is impressive by any standards. The wood grain trimming and quality materials found throughout the interior also fared well on this test drive, as did the heated leather seats and steering wheel. We know that we aren't the first to remind you how cold it has been in Tennessee lately, and these little heated “extra bonuses” can really hit the spot some mornings!

Riding high in the Tahoe is NOT a drawback of this large vehicle, while so many other drivers are boxed-in below and volatile as they pine their path delicately down the expressway. Navigation during inclement weather is going to simply rock: a bit of precipitation isn't even going to come close to altering your final destination ETA. Featuring a powerful and astute 5.3-liter V8 Eco Tec 3 engine, you'll love the power generated, and hopefully you'll opt for four-wheel drive, another element-conquering tool of the bad-ass genre. If towing duties are what has you concerned during the New Year, the Tahoe can pull up to 8.600 pounds if properly equipped, and many boats will be gracing their racks during the warmer months here in Knoxville.

During the test drive, Voice controls were responsive to command, and the placement of volume control buttons behind the steering wheel yielded definite plus points. The forward collision warning, lane keep assist, and blind spot monitoring features are there to provide the ultimate in protective guise: all of these additives help keep you aligned, alert, and inept from making any split-second mistakes when it matters most. If you generally have a “whole lot of stuff” in your daily regimen, this year's Tahoe is poised to properly pull the weight.