2019 Chevy Silverado Praised by Car and Driver as “Great on Fuel Efficiency, Very Refined”

Hearing about what some of the biggest and best publications in the nation have to say about their favorite vehicles is a key factor when it finally comes time to buy. So many of those on the hunt for a new addition car or truck-wise this year at West Chevy ask us what the most seasoned drive testers and writers are saying about a vehicle, and brand new trucks happen to come up in discussion quite often. The brand new Silverado is now sporting a bold new grille design, and the body panels have lost some of the aggressive qualities that past models were known for. In the current market, truck wars are waging strong as ever, and the brand we have always loved to stand behind has invested a lot in order to keep up with the foreboding competition.

Just this past week Car and Driver spotlighted the new truck, and first took the time to speak highly of the Dynamic Fuel Management System, which is available on both of the V-8's. This builds on the idea of Active Fuel Management, which allows V-8 engines to operate with just 4 cylinders whenever loads are light in the name of preserving fuel. It functions by allowing any one of the new truck's 8-pots to operate using as few as two cylinders, depending on the driver's specific demand in place for torque. GM claims that this will absolutely improve fuel economy by about 5 percent, and during a test drive, the writing staff claimed that there was no drastic change at all in driving character, or with vibrations situated inside.

Nearly 450 pounds have been shaved from the Silverado, and depending on the model, 88 pounds were removed from the frame, with 88 more successfully shed from the body. Using the best in high-strength steel and aluminum helped with this feat, and the bouncing around that happens frequently in larger pickups is alleviated. Even on the most winding of mountain roads, the drive testers claimed it was very easy to forget how large the truck is, whether inside or outside. 2.5 inches more rear-seat legroom is now available in the outgoing model, and the hard-working individuals in the factory have made concessions to have a 2-inch suspension lift available.

Here in Knoxville, when the heat is not quite as sweltering and the highly-awaited football broadcasts sweep back on air, Chevy is poised to step up in a major way. Providing peace of mind and security for haulers by offering a tow package that uses cameras to produce extreme close-ups of the trailer and hitch. The infotainment screen can display these feeds, for up to 8 seconds during vehicle motion, and the system is able to store information on drive for several trailers. Car and Driver were impressed enough with the new Silverado's release that they thought it will all-around “have enough firepower to unseat the F-150,” as well as retain its longstanding edge over the new Dodge Ram 1500. When you visit us for a test drive here at West Chevy this fall, don't forget to check out the Silverado's Sport Mode: the most responsive and smoothest steering while at the wheel is experienced while utilizing this awesome performance setting!

2019 Silverado 1500 Trailering Features Greatly Ease Stress Level During Towing Duties

When residents of the Knoxville area set their sights on a new truck purchase, it is undeniable that towing features are at the top of their list. The all-new for 2019 Silverado 1500 will introduce several levels of towing features to improve customers' trailering experiences – all light-duty Silverado models have the myChevrolet trailering phone app capability, and customers can add the Advanced Trailering System, which allows full access to the system in-vehicle.

A very exciting industry-first trailering label is helping to take the guesswork out of calculating the combined weight of customers truck and trailer combinations, being put together after Chevy spoke with 7,000 customers over a period of 18,000 hours. Sixty percent of those surveyed named towing as a key purchase consideration. All four trailering levels on the 2019 Silverdao 1500 will provide greater confidence, easier trailer hitching, and a greatly improved sense of connectivity between the trailer and truck itself.

With the purchase of all 2019 Silvverado 1500s, the myChevrolet app provides the ability to offer features such as pre-departure step-by-step towing checklists, and a glossary of towing terms for all compatible data plans and devices. You can even access your device, and conduct a detailed light trailer test that uses an automatic exterior light sequence to help confirm that the trailer is properly connected. In the days of the past, this was a two-person job, and it is a revolutionary and exciting prospect that now a single individual can properly connect a trailer and, do a full check on the lights.

For customers that have an even higher priority level for towing, the Advanced Trailering System provides features to make towing an easier process. It is available on LTZ and High Country trim levels, as well as LT, RST, and Trail Boss. The system included Auto Parking Brake Assist, which is perfect for customers who've dealt with the frustration of trying to get their truck perfectly aligned. It sets itself automatically when the vehicle is put into Hitch View, and works overtime to help avoid vehicle movement after the customer lines the truck up with the trailer, then shifts to park.

The Trailer Tire Pressure Monitoring System is a feature that can help monitor the tire pressure by use of the truck's infotainment system. This system also allows customers to monitor the temperature of their tires, to help prevent blowouts and massive overheating. The infotainment app that comes with this Advanced Trailering System allows customers t track the mileage, fuel economy, and transmission temperature of their truck during a tow, and you can even create up to five in-depth profiles for different trailer types. When you arrive for a test drive here at West Chevy, ask us about the Trailer Theft Alert Feature, it can activate the truck's lights and horn if the harness of the trailer is disconnected for any reason! 

Colorado ZR2 AEV Revamp: Extras Abound With Teeming Features and Off-Road Capability

All of the spots around Knoxville that are great for off-roading are going to now really meet their match: The Colorado ZR2 was already a very awesome truck, just begging to become much better. All of us here at West Chevy was full aware that when Chevy took the liberty of collaborating with AEV, a vehicle that was now more off-road ready than ever before was going to be given the opportunity to fully roar to life. By being consistently innovative and thoroughly tough, the Chevy namesake has gained more than a quarter of all midsize truck sales in just under four years, and in past models, the Colorado line introduced an all-new V-6 gas engine with 8-speed transmission combination. To complete the job of protecting the most important of undercarriage elements over rough and jagged terrain, the Bison model now proudly features five different skid plates that house the fuel tank, engine oil pan, transfer case, as well as front and rear locking differentials.

Custom made by the ingenious and all-around dynamite manufacturer AEG, these skid plates are made up of incredibly durable hot-stamped Boron steel. This is the main ingredient used to shield the truck from various obstacles it can encounter during adventurous off-road jaunts. Offering a fully stocked suite of equipment to make sure its off-road abilities shine strongly, the ability to maneuver like a truly midsize truck, and the driving range of a high-performing diesel engine, the ZR2 is on deck to now provide excellent off-road capability in multiple scenarios. Multimatic DSSV patented these awesome dampers, and them along with the front and rear locking differentials are two other qualities that make this one of the best vehicles to conquer the back roads of Tennessee that aren't able to welcome traffic from anything other than the most trusty and able of vehicles.

The experts at AEV have been closely following the Colorado since its early origins, and knew full-on ahead of time that the first use of the hot-stamped Baron steel would be a legendary truck in many ways. Many drivers who already had cause to be very excited about the Colorado are bound to take to the rugged can-do vibe and appearance that the new front and rear bumpers add, and there is a multitude of extra equipment on board to appeal to those with the ultimate sense of wanderlust. The modified rear axle with 3.42 ratio, front and rear tracks widened by 3.5 inches, and a factory suspension that sports a two-inch lift over a Colorado Z71 are all other elements that will have you packing your camping and climbing gear quick, to depart the city in a hurry.

Getting rapidly off of frequently traveled roads in a truck is always a bonding time with yourself that can't be beaten: properly kicking up some dirt and traveling on trails in the Knoxville area are bound to be a pastime that you will be eager for all week! The 2.8 -L Duramax Turbo-Diesel engine is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, and is capable of putting out 186 horsepower, with 369 lb-ft of torque. Buyers also have the option to choose a crew or extended cab configuration, and to purchase an available third-party accessory snorkel for the ZR2 Bison direct from AEV. We hope that you come to pay us a visit here at West Chevy soon, and see for yourself in depth the features and off-road prowess of the brand new truck that Cnet deemed ideal for “just you and your pals, living off the grid for days or even weeks at a time.”

Camaro SS Trim Highlights: Coupe and Convertible With 1LE Performance Potential

 As there are still numerous warm days left here in Knoxville, high-performance cars such as the Camaro are going to be heavily under the radar for any thrill-loving customer's choice. The June 1966 media introduction of the original 1967 Camaro was the very first large-scale teleconference ever held, employing over 100 technicians in 14 different hotel conference rooms to get the job done. There are plenty of exciting new things for 2019 regarding the Camaro's SS trim: New front-end styling, including the fascia, grille, dual-element headlamps, LED signature lighting and extractor-style hood is on deck, with the new “flowtie” open bowtie grille emblem, polished black grille finish, and aero-enhancing air curtains as prominent features.

Dark-tinted neutral-density lenses are new for the rear fascia and sculpted LED tail-  lamps, as well as a brand new 20-inch wheel design. The 8-speed automatic transmission is replaced with a ten-speed: it now includes lift-foot gear hold, Tour, Sport, and Track modes, as well as custom launch control, and line lock. The wildly popular Chevrolet Infotainment system on board has an 8-inch color touchscreen, with navigation available, and this system offers up greater personalization, as well as a more intuitive user interface. Ask us to show you the Cloud connectivity this fall: it enhances navigation, voice recognition, and apps for the user.

 The 2019 Camaro SS is equipped with a full-display rear camera mirror, with improved, high-definition view quality, as well as forward collision alert. The revised ambient lighting with new blended color choices adds a very cool hue and character to the overall vibe of the car, and this trim provides the choice of coupe or convertible model. The 6.2-Liter LT1 direct-injected Small Blok V-8 is rated at 455 horsepower, and 455 lb-ft of torque. One truly exciting additive is the 1LE Performance Package: it offers more than 1g of cornering capability, and includes Brembo six-piston monobloc brake calipers, 4-piston rear calipers, two-piece brake rotors, and electronic limited-slip differential.

You'll also enjoy the high-octane benefits of dual-mode exhaust, magnetic ride  control, FE4 performance suspension, and satin black front and rear blade spoiler. The Driver Mode Selector enables you to thoroughly tailor the look, sound, and feel of the vehicles to your preferences and driving conditions, and Chevrolet 4G LTE with wi-fi hotspot will keep you connected with a one-month 3GB data trial. You'll want to be assured that you'll stay safe in a vehicle with the awesome and earth-shaking capabilities of the Camaro SS: there are standard air bags in the dual-stage frontal, thorax side-impact and knee air bags for the driver and front passenger, and Coupe models also include head curtain side-impact air bags.

 Rear Park Assist, Rear-Cross Traffic Alert, and Side Blind Zone Alert with Lane Change Alert are standard on the 2SS, and Forward Collision Alert is available on the 2SS Coupe. For the times when treating the Camaro is if you were on circuit becomes a priority, you'll love the StabiliTrak electronic stability control system: It will always keep you at a peak level of control during low-traction driving conditions on road sections that are loose or uneven in any way!

Chevy Cruze Hatchback's Back-to-school Swagger: New-for 2019 Features + Updates

As Back-to-school season approaches once again and the truth that summer is finally now winding down sets in around West Chevy of Knoxville, there are a large number of customers who are looking for models that are functional, budget-minded, and powerful. If you can meet these expectations in a package that still inches long strides forward in front of various competitors, looks as good as any other sedan or hatchback on the road, and offers up some of the best features there are in the market, chances are that you have a car on your hands that will be chosen for purchase again and again. The compact car is one of the best selections for those who may be looking forward to a “season of scurry” in their metro area, and are looking for a great EPA fuel rating to boot.

Next year's Chevy Cruz hatchback is on track to see a completely restyled front end,  with new fascia, grille, and headlamps. Make sure you give the Premier trim a close look: it will feature revised, expressive dual-element taillamps, LED tail lamp lighting, and brand new wheel designs. Check out the super-cool RS package for 2019: it gives you black window moldings, emblems, and wheels, and you can select from a few new interior colors, including the well-hued Umber. Up in front, the Chevrolet Infotainment 3 Radio with 7-inch touchscreen will keep everyone entertained as well as informed, and it definitely surpasses the standard for front-seat distraction and navigation duties.

 Every hatchback and sedan Cruze model is offered with 1.4L turbo, and 1.6L turbo-diesel engines, and the Cruze sedan will be offered in L, LS, LT, and Premier trims. The 1.4L turbo model features direct injections, which allows for the 0-60 mph sprint in 7.7 seconds. When you visit us here at West Chevy during the fall for a test drive, make sure that you ask us specifically about the RS package: now available on the LT and Premier, it includes a rear spoiler, front fog lamps, sport body kit, and super-cool RS ornamentation. For the Premier trim level, there is now the Intellibeam automatic headlamp control available, with the ever-useful automatic climate control standard on LT and Premier trims as well.

With school getting ready to start and all of the outings that fall may provide on its  itinerary, the front-running safety features of the Cruze will no doubt be in any parent's spotlight. We are eager to convey to customers that ten standard airbags including driver and front passenger knee airbags, as well as a standard rear-vision camera will be a great start to assuring safety is upped for every single drive. StabiliTrak electronic stability control, rollover mitigation, and anti-lock brakes are a few other additives that no doubt give any driver on the highway or city excursion an added boost of confidence. When you come to see us with checking out the Cruze's new features, make sure to inquire about the Driver Confidence II Package: it offers you the addition of IntelliBeam Automatic High-Beam Control, Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, Rear Park Assist, Following Distance Indicator, Forward Collision Alert, and Low-Speed Forward Automatic Braking!

2019 Chevy Traverse Billed as “A Hit on our Hands” By Roadshow Blog

During the last few years at West Chevy of Knoxville, we have had the opportunity to watch the popularity of crossover SUV's grow with every passing moment. It is one of those categories that is always going to be as family-friendly as can be, and will definitely require a very stand-out contender to even make a tiny dent in the stratosphere as far as sales. The 2019 Chevy Traverse debuted in 2008, and for the 2018 model, an all-new second-generation version was put out. With the capacity for seating for 8, two separate available engines, and receiving shifting support from a nine-speed transmission, the knowledgeable folks atRoad Show blog thought that the Traverse would be a good vehicle to showcase in their digital print version for the week.

The first available engine choice is a 3.6-liter V6, which is rated for an edging- forward 310 horsepower, and 266 lb – ft of torque. If you choose to equip your Traverse with front-wheel drive, it yields 18 miles per gallon city, and 27 mpg highways, while all-wheel-drive versions can nail down certified EPA scores ranging from 17 to 25 miles per gallon. You also have the choice of opting for the turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four, with 257 horsepower, and 295 lb-ft, which is the spotlight featured power source for the RS trim level. Offered with front-wheel drive only, it is much more efficient in all ways than the V6, with EPA ratings at 20/26 mpg.

 The Roadshow experts were quite excited about the luxury trims available for the Traverse: The Premier and High Country. The Premier trim build on the LT leather with LED headlights, 20-inch wheels, the addition of more exterior chrome, a heated steering wheel, a power steering column, heated and cooled front seats, heated second-row seats, and the very useful feature of wireless phone charging. If you opt for the High Country, it tops things off appropriately with features like adaptive cruise control, pre-collision braking, a sunroof, a power-folding third row, and the dependable and trusty towing package.

Writer Andrew Krok plainly states for the record that “Chevy has a hit on its hands” here, due to the high level of in-car tech, driving dynamics that don't stale, and the high level of space available across all three rows. He was pretty excited about the second-row legroom, and claimed that a 6-ft tall person sitting behind another would be comfortable enough, even on a longer interstate journey.

Another great feature that Andrew highlighted in this writeup was the fluidity during the shifting of gears: The Traverse's nine-speed automatic was “butter smooth” whether in up or downshift. Come to see us soon, to check out the very high-performing fuel economy, a solid ride, and space to do whatever you want that will undoubtedly sway you for a great purchase next fall, straight into the throngs of the new ownership in the highly-acclaimed and comfortable zones of Traverse country!

Corvette's Illustrious History Showcased in Depth by Car and Driver

The allure and excitement of the Corvette is not an element that can just be described with one sentence or photo, and the folks at Car and Driver put together a great piece illustrating the rise of this car that all of us here at West Chevy have loved for decades. As we pieced through it wide-eyed here on the lot, it did a fantastic job of showing us how this iconic vehicle rose through the ranks to get to where it is today. During the early 1950's, it was evident that a powerful sports car was necessary to assure that the GM namesake would remain successful.

First produced under the code name Project Opel, the sports car was a very American take on the British sports cars of the time, pieced together from a fiberglass body, and a 3.9-liter straight-six engine mated to a fairly minuscule 2-speed automatic transmission. After making its debut to a very warm reception during GM's 1953 Motorama show in New York City, the Corvette became the fairly rare entrant that then went on to be mass-produced on the line. Production was slightly rushed following the model's debut, the two-seat roadster uses fiberglass body panels, and relied on the much more powerful Blue Flame inline-six for power source.

Chevy produced 300 Corvettes in 1953, and sold just 183 of them. Many thought that at the time, this happened because it was not civilized enough to be a touring car, nor all-inclusively engaging enough to appeal to die hard sports-car enthusiasts. During 1955, new life came in abundance to the Chevy brand, when they finally shoved their 4.3-liter V-8 under the hood in one of our most sensible plays ever. For the first time ever, the Corvette truly offered sports-car performance of an upper caliber. For the 1956 year's offering, the front end was revised, and was very reminiscent of the Mercedes-Benz 300SL Coupe, while scalloped sides added a look that was a bit more distinct. A second carb was available, and raised power output to 225 horse.

During the early 1960's, the Corvette went under the knife once gain, and emerged sporting a revised front end with a new dual-headlight design for 1958... other changes include an updated interior that featured the move of the tachometer from the center of the dashboard, to a location below the speedometer in the driver's line of sight. During 1965, one of the most iconic Corvettes ever was released, and the brake improvements as well as the placement of a “big block” V-8 engine under the Corvette's hood, and this was one of those oh-so-sweet-in-red models that produced monstrous 425 gross horsepower. This power rating shot up to 435 horsepower for 1967, when there was a second 427 – cubic – inch V-8 added to the Corvette Lineup as well.

The Sharknado was one of the coolest styling essences of the late 60's, as designer  Larry Shinoda had things based off of the Mako Shark II concept car. The three-speed automatic transmission replaced the prior two-speed unit, and the very powerful and appealing Stingray was on deck to enlarge the stroke of the standard V8, bringing the displacement up to 5.7 liters. The 1970's saw some pretty great Corvettes: even though this was one of the most iconic times ever, we skipped ahead on the slideshow to 1983, when Chevy released the Fourth-generation Corvette as a 1984 model.

It was completely redesigned from the ground up, and welcomed additional clearance, as well as a lower center of gravity. A 205-hp, 350 cubic inch V-8 is the only engine offered, and mates to either a 4-speed automatic transmission, or Chevy's 4+3 manual gearbox, which offered overdrive gears for two, three, and four.

The announcement of the ZR1's arrival for 2019 is making all of us here in Knoxville  pretty anxious: there were many changes to the Corvette during the 2000's as well, and these were the years when it became so much more modern, and sleek. The emergence of the Z06 in 2006 was a major milestone for the brand, and many customers immediately fell in love with the lightweight aluminum frame, as well as the LS7 engine. We loved virtually thumbing through this Ode to Corvettes, and invite you down to West Chevy for a test drive of the latest and greatest ASAP!