Chevy Camaro Deemed by Car Connection “Best Performance Buy for 2020”

Aaron Cole is the experienced and well-versed editor for The Car Connection, and he began his latest feature about our prized Camaro by lamenting that “These are halcyon days for horsepower”. In regards to the best reasons to purchase one, he opens up with saying that nothing provides as “intoxicating a mix” in regards to the horsepower and throaty V-8 for the price. The SS model focuses heavily on the 6.2-liter V8, which cranks out 455 horsepower and 455 lb-ft of torque. It is paired with the 6-speed manual transmission that Aaron ranks as the most engaging out there, and rises up from zero to 60 mph at around 4.3 seconds.

When compared to the LT1 model, the SS features a larger 8.0-inch touchscreen, Brembo Brakes, performance tires, and a digital instrument information display as standard. The SS also provides the addition of available magnetic dampers that really mold the car into a shining star on the track. After the additional finesse of a 1LE suspension tune, the SS is ready to take on anything track-related, with a lot of heart and sheer muscle.

When stacking up the Camaro to it's prominent crosstown rival in the form of the Mustang, the Car Connection team points out that they love the 5.0-liter V8 that makes 460 hp, but the Camaro beats out the Mustang when it comes to handling. In regards to the Mustang GT, it is improved with a Performance Package 2 upgrade, but after extensive driving, was still not deemed as nimble when it came to navigating every single little bump and turn on the track. It was not long ago that cars that boasted more than 400 horsepower were usually going to hover around the six-figure range, and all of us here at West Chevy of Knoxville agree that these are exciting times for anyone who wants to experience this type excitement on a bit of a  budget.

This is the longstanding “pony pride” of the Chevy line that Car and Driver bills as “endlessly enjoyable to drive”, and offers up something for everyone as far as driving experience overall. For 2020, the lineup also saw the addition of a new Rally Green paint color  and a few other options to hone in and personalize your Camaro. The LT1 Model is the entry point designed to make V-8 power more accessible to the masses, but the SS is where you see truly linear power delivery, and heart-pumping acceleration enhanced by the dual-mode exhaust.

The professionals who have years of experience with high-performance cars that have driven the Camaro as of late say that the brake performance is fantastic: aggressive and assuring responses are the norm, and every time you engage it's obvious that years of research and development more than paid off. Key safety features include available blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert, forward-collision warning, and available rear parking sensors.

2020 Chevy Suburban's Z71 Trim Level Closeup Via Motor1.com

Much to the excitement of many customers and us on staff right here at West Chevy of Knoxville, the covers were pulled away from the 2021 Chevy Suburban and Tahoe a few weeks ago. This time, the pair of large SUVs really are “all-new”, and not just because of new metal enveloping the shell. There is an independent rear suspension underneath the three-row SUVs for the first time, and a report courtesy of GM Authority says the Z71 model is also going to be included in the lineup.

At the official debut for the two new SUVs, Chevy did reveal the Z71 edition of the Tahoe, but not formally as an available package. As the staff of Motor1.com reported on the blog last week, the Z71 is now a model trim, and will also exist for the larger Suburban. Since the Z71 package has been so wildly popular in past years, it makes sense for it to be available despite some reluctance to admit the release during the fall. Z71 is the means and package for a unit to become off-road ready. Expected would be the addition of height-adjustable Air-Ride suspension, skid plates underneath, and front fascia that makes for better clearance for approach angles.

It's also expected to see the presence of a monochromatic exterior treatment and grippy all-terrain tires, other additives that help with conquering off-road trails. When we have seen people from a distance off-roading on our various travels, sometimes you ask yourself, “Why are they going so slow? Can't they move just a bit faster over the tree roots and rocks in their way?” and the truth is until you have done serious off-roading yourself, it is hard to realize just how much damage you can do to your underbelly, and just how vital components such as the skid plates are during the drive.

Both vehicles will now boast an even more open and spacious cabin, a more comfortable ride, and six trims with their unique flair. There are the usual enhancements that Chevy has become such a class-leader with, such as nine best-in-class separate camera views, and the Rear Seat Media System with twin 12.6-inch displays. Tim Herrick, VP of global product programs said last year that “This program is unprecedented in size and scope, and amount of capital injected into it”.

At any one time during the new Suburban and Tahoe's development, 10,000 people were working on architecture to assure that these models were unique, durable, and dependable. The most fuel-efficient option is now going to be the new Duramax 3.0-liter I-6 turbodiesel that is available on all but the Z71. Chevy is alone in producing a full-size diesel SUV, and many will be sure to get excited enough to hastily call one their own for the New Year!  

2020 Corvette Nurburgring Lap Times Reported by Motor1.com

The famed German track that so many can earn their stripes and prove their worth on was once again the scene of a very important automotive news story this past week! All of us here at West Chevy of Knoxville looked on in admiration as the 2020 Chevy Corvette C8 with the Z51 Performance Package nailed down a Nurburgring lap time of 7:28.30. Manoli Katiakis of Muscle Cars and Trucks was the source for the scoop and was proud to be “carrying the torch” when it came to the latest in C8 updates.

The fact that Chevy engineers are wanting to take the C8 for a timed lap around the Nurburgring does not surprise too many, as it was already admitted that Chevy planned to put the 'Vette to the best both here and the famed Virginia International Raceway. Other Spy shots caught some cool moments during development at Green Hell to boot. The fastest Corvette time that's officially from Chevy is 7:19.63 that was claimed by the 2012 ZR1. Corvette engineer Jim Mero claimed that the 2019 ZR1 completed the feat in 7:04, but the company never released an official announcement about the figure.

The 2018 Chevy Camaro ZL1 1LE had also supposedly nailed down a time of 7:16.04, a tried-and-true track-ready contender within its own Reich. We also know that the more powerful variants of the C8 Corvette are on the way, and so the starting point of 7:28.30 seems like a good starting point for the development of any new models. The incoming ZR1 could use a twin-turbo V8 with dual-overhead cams, as well as a flat-plane crank. There would also be assistance in a hybrid type, and this setup could have the potential to crank out at least 900 hp.

Developments such as these will easily shave time off a lap, and continue to generate the world-wide excitement that began and was christened that day the C8 was revealed in a California hanger during late summer. Billed by the Autoblog staff as “already a legend in the making”, the C8 sees a great amount of optimization from some of the world's best chassis tuners, making it incredibly quick, capable, and balanced. During back road Michigan drives, this is the expertly-engineered craft that “hurtles itself out of corners with stupefying speed”, and sports sheer amazement in the suspension department.

The introduction of the C8 saw it immediately being hailed as the “most refined Corvette ever”, and we have been excited from its launch to watch the amazingly warm reception of its debut. You won't regret opting for trident-spoke 19-front and 20-inch rear wheels, carbon-fiber engine-bay trim, the carbon-fiber targa roof, and trademark Competition seats that provide the ultimate in contour and comfort!

Autoblog Crew Highlights 2021 Chevy Tahoe and Suburban Suspension Improvements

Here at West Chevy of Knoxville during the holidays, many of us and our families are itching to load up a new vehicle with our closest kin and hit the town for merriment! Knoxville offers so many different things to do during December: on New Year's Eve itself, the Knoxville Museum of Art is having their annual soiree with live music, dancing, food, spirits, and a fantastic view of the fireworks on Market Square. Great choices for a vehicle to haul your most fun friends around in are the 2021 Chevy Tahoe and Suburban, and they both have big news in the suspension department.

As reported on Autoblog last week, this was a very important switch and improved the test drive this team spent with the SUVs greatly. Ride quality and utility are where the improvements are the most evident, where Chevy chose a four-link independent rear suspension design. It has three lateral arms, one longitudinal arm, coil springs, and a stabilizer bar. The front suspension incorporates the same hardware as the Silverado, but the tuning allows it to be ideal for a large SUV.

Traditional steel coil springs and passive dampers are standard, but buyers will be able to choose GM's Magnetic Ride Control dampers as well as a new Air Ride Adaptive Suspension. This is so exciting because inside is the next generation of Magnetic Ride Control, expected to be better than ever before. The Milford Proving Grounds was where the team was able to treat themselves to a spin in a pre-production 2021 Chevy Tahoe.

It felt more compliant and controlled than before over a range of rough road conditions, and was equipped with both the magnetic dampers and air suspension. Just minutes before, the group drove a Ford Expedition equipped with Ford's adaptive “Continuously Controlled Suspension”. The Tahoe offered up the trait of not being tossed around as much, and the load floor is lowered by 5.3 inches. This makes for more legroom and cargo room, and even third-row passengers will see great comfort on long hauls. The 2021 Suburban sees third-row legroom increased by 2.2 inches, and cargo space behind the third row by 1.8 cubic feet.

Both V8s use the very advanced Dynamic Fuel Management system, with the larger of the two cranking out 420 hp and 460 lb-ft of torque. The standard infotainment system for the Suburban is a 10-inch touchscreen, and an 8-inch digital screen in the instrument cluster comes as standard on Premier and High Country. If you are certain that long trips will be the norm for your business or family clan, be sure to check out the rear-seat entertainment package: here you see two 12.6-inch touchscreens mounted to the back of the front headrests.

2021 Chevy Tahoe and Suburban Poised to Dominate Lavishly Large Segment

During this time of year here at West Chevy of Knoxville, our thoughts are drifting to our favorite holiday desserts, classics such as “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer”, and loved ones finally getting to visit from far away. This is when many customers are coming to ask as about the various details and features regarding upcoming models, and begin to plan for which truck, SUV, or sedan will be fitting for them. Last year was good enough to us to bring about an all-new Silverado, and now it's time for large-size SUVs to follow suit and deliver the best in what buyers want in the way of new features. 

New LED lights as standard will be both on the front and rear of the 2021 Chevy Suburban and Tahoe, as well as 18-inch wheels. You'll have the choice of 9 exterior colors, and the wheelbase on the Suburban has 1.3 inches more length and a 4.1-inch stretch. The Tahoe boasts wheelbase expansion by an extra 4.9 inches, and length growth of 6.7 inches. Both of these new vehicles brandish a completely-new underside, and there is a massive upgrade in regards to the multi-link, independent rear suspension. With the solid axle no longer in place, ride quality is going to be much smoother, no matter what elements the weather and terrain condition brings. 

One of the most common concerns that those who are looking at the largest in vehicles have is about cargo space: how much is there inside for the times when you are leaving for longer than just the weekend? The new Suburban gains 19 percent in the back for a total cargo capacity weighing in at 144.7 cubic feet. Both new models also are equipped with sliding second-row seats that provide easier access to the back. To keep everyone in tow entertained, it is pretty imperative to have multiple displays in the back, and both of these new models have as many as five available. Among the five in selection is a standard 10-inch infotainment screen that now lays claim to being the largest in the category. 

It was not too many years ago when long trips that took the entire family away from town made the need for distractions such as books and board games to keep everyone in tow entertained. While those options are still an excellent way to keep passengers' minds off of how many miles are left in the journey, it is true that the digital screen has become the most frequently picked diversion. Rear-seat passengers in these two vehicles can now enjoy two 12.6-inch LCD displays, which allow for anyone not having to navigate the road the means to kick pack and enjoy their favorite form of online or pre-recorded content. 

For the incoming model, there is also the option to add the brand-new 3.0-liter Duramax turbo-diesel engine, which cranks out 277 hp and 460 lb-ft of torque. When you know it is finally time to come down and see us here at West Chevy for a test drive, remember to inquire about the High Country trim level: it offers a visually distinct grille and 22-inch wheels that are the best Chevy “Holiday turkey-trimming treat” we've seen! 

Origins and Individuality: Chevy Silverado Carhartt Release in GM Authority

Last month in the sizzling desert at the 2019 SEMA show in Las Vegas, the Chevy Silverado HD Carhartt Edition made its big public debut. The original concept was shown at SEMA 3 years ago, and is based on the Chevy Silverado 2500HD LTZ Crew Cab model, and equipped with the Z71 Off-Road Package. The expert staff on duty at GM Authority had a great feature last week about the details, and spoke with Silverado marketing manager Hugh Milne, that laid out the origins that lead to eventual completion.

During 2016 was the original release of the 2017 Chevy Silverado HD, and it was the year the new LSP Duramax diesel engine was released. Carhartt had always had a supreme and awesome reign of everything work-clothing related: fire-resistant clothing, hunting clothes, and gear for the railroad. The connection to Silverado buyers was already existent and fairly seamless, and also hailing from Dearborn, Michigan, the company was a no-brainer as far as hefty partnership potential. The more that Chevy continued to work with Carhartt, the more they realized that both entities were pretty much talking to the same customers, and a solid bond was formed.

The next step was to put together a promotional agreement, and so Carhartt was then linked into a tour that goes to state fairs and large events, and Chevy reps wore Carhartt gear while Carhartt reps hosted Chevy trucks on-site for grand opening events. The reveal of the initial concept truck at SEMA 2016 solidified further the relationship between the two, but at the time a production version was just not quite in the cards. The reveal generated wild interest, but it was late in the last truck's lifecycle. Nonetheless, numerous customers were contacting both entities asking if they would ever be lucky enough to see it built.

The initial Silverado Carhartt Edition Concept was released late in the cycle regarding the last-generation K2 platform-based truck and was about two years away from the release of the current-generation model. With the new truck now out, the green light was given to begin the production stage of the concept. It is available in Mosiac Black metallic paint and is also equipped with Carhartt gold pinstriping, unique badging, a soft rollup tonneau cover, and other exterior upgrades. On the inside, you are greeted with exclusive two-tone leather seats, embroidered headrests, and Carhartt-branded all-weather floor mats. Don't forget to visit us here at West Chevy of Knoxville this holiday season to check out this and all other available truck models: 2020 would be a great year for your family or business to experience the excitement of brand-new truck ownership!

2020 Chevy Equinox Scores Top Safety Pick From IIHS

The 2020 Chevy Equinox has been hailed by many test drivers and auto publications this holiday season for its practicality, efficiency, and luxury accents on a budget. Now named as a Top Safety Pick by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, there is just one more reason to pick the Equinox as your next New Year's vehicle. To earn a Top Safety Pick, a vehicle needs to earn “Good” ratings in several key crash measurements, including the driver-side small overlap front test, and roof strength.

A rating of “Good” or “Acceptable” is also needed for the passenger-side small overlap front test, as well as a “Superior” or “Advanced” rating for vehicle-to-vehicle front crash prevention. Headlights need to finish at a “Good” or “Acceptable” rating, as the Equinox's available HID projector headlights measure up to. Having high-beam assist fitted as standard also aids the Equinox with its high safety ratings, which automatically switch between low and high beams based on the detection of other vehicles nearby. To continue in the utmost assurance of driver safety worldwide, the IIHS recently updated its side-impact crash test to better account for real-world scenarios.

During the very important scenario, the fast-moving rig's weight was increased to 4,200 pounds up from 3,300, and the vehicle will now be struck at 37 mph, up from 31 mph. The primary objective of this test is to simulate the damage that a pickup truck or large SUV would cause on another vehicle. Easy-to-use tech features, excellent fuel economy, and very capable handling are other reasons to choose the New Year's Equinox as your next vehicle here at West Chevy of Knoxville. Other new features onboard designed to keep you safe are lane departure warning, lane keep assist, forward collision warning, forward automatic emergency braking, and pedestrian detection.

When you are looking into taking a longer than average trip out of town, the Equinox provides 29.9 cubic feet of space behind the rear seats, and if they are folded down, you can get 63.9 cubic feet of space. Standard features include the Infotainment 3 system with a 7-inch touch screen, six-speaker audio system, two USB ports, Bluetooth, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and a Wi-Fi hot spot.

The base powertrain has an EPA rating of 26 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway, which are some of the best numbers in the compact SUV class, period. When properly equipped, the Equinox can tow up to 3,500 pounds. When you visit us to check out how fantastic and superior the new Equinox is, ask us about the warranty: the three-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and a five-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty!