Sport Utility Vehicles

Introducing the Second-Generation GMC Acadia

October 24, 2016 by admin 11 Comments

GMC’s midsize SUV lighter, smaller, & more efficient than the previous model.

Eleven years is an awfully long time to stick with the same model. Typically, customer appeal fades after a few years. Even with product refreshes it usually requires a clean sheet design to reinvigorate consumer interest and the sales boost that goes with it.

The GMC Acadia flies in the face of marketing convention as its best year was 2015 when this midsize crossover sport utility vehicle was in its tenth year. This calendar year (2016) is one of transition as the first-generation model has given way to the second-generation Acadia. The new model went on sale in May.

Lighter Weight, Fresh Design

Big changes accompany the second-generation GMC Acadia. For one, it comes in at least 700 pounds lighter than the previous model. GMC says they accomplished the weight savings in part by using a body structure composed of press-hardened, high-strength steels. It also helps that the base engine is now a four cylinder and the overall length has shrunk by 6.4 inches (3.5 inches between the wheels).

Gone is the previous eight-passenger seating option. The new model offers room for five, six, or seven, including exclusive two-row seating in the Acadia All Terrain, which brings in underfloor bins for added storage. In all other models, the 50-50 split folding third-row seat folds flat, creating a fully loading flat load floor behind the rear seat.

A new model means a fresh look and GMC has worked diligently to ensure that the latest interpretation pays off. Yes, you can still purchase a bling-bling Denali, while the blacked-out All Terrain serves as the antithesis of that look.

Regardless of the trim chosen, you’ll come away with an SUV offering a bold grille, sleek wraparound headlamps, a sporty lower grille opening, and strong shoulders. This model is also marked by squared wheel arches, a high belt line, alloy wheels, and oversized rear combination lamps. Body sculpting, character lines, and a wraparound greenhouse look at the rear are other standout features.

Eight Trims for the Choosing

Most shoppers will choose one of the five standard trims for the 2017 Acadia: SL ($29,995), SLE-1 ($33,375), SLE-2 ($35,995), SLT-1 ($39,275), or SLT-2 ($42,675). Prices include destination; add $2,000 for all-wheel drive, where available. The base model is front-wheel drive only.

Choose the Denali and you’ll pay $45,845 (all-wheel drive is extra) while the All Terrain will set you back by $39,115 or $43,250 for the fully-optioned model. Terrain models come with an advanced all-wheel drive or 4×4 system, enabling customers to switch between various drive modes, including all terrain, sport, and trailer/tow.

Technology You Want

As before, Acadia interiors are clean and relatively drama free. The drama you don’t want isn’t found here, meaning the GMC Intellilink infotainment system is both easy to decipher and user friendly. Voice, touchscreen, knob or switch operated, this model offers standard OnStar with Wi-Fi (a three-month trial subscription is offered) along with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. These are the types of tech features customers want that go beyond the requisite USB ports and auxiliary audio ports to deliver a complete and entirely usable experience.

Safety is an important component of the customer buying experience. Beyond the suite of eight airbags, traction and stability control, and electronic brake-force distribution, there are certain advanced safety technologies customers want as well.

For the 2017 Acadia, the advanced driver assist technologies appear beginning on the SLT-2 level. These include: following distance indicator, forward collision alert, front pedestrian braking, lane keep assist, rear cross traffic alert, and side blind zone alert with lane change alert. At this trim level, you’ll also receive front and rear park assist. As for crash testing, those results were not ready at the time of publication.

Standard equipment includes keyless entry and push-button start, a tilt and telescopic steering column, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, power accessories, cruise control, a rearview camera, air conditioning, OnStar 4G LTE and built-in Wi-Fi hotspot, Bluetooth connectivity, USB ports, an auxiliary jack, and a six-speaker audio system.

Upgrades are many and depend largely on the trim level chosen or the package acquired. These include an eight-speaker Bose audio system (SLT), remote vehicle start (SLE-2), a power driver’s seat (SLE-2), a heated power-adjustable steering wheel and column (Denali), driver alert package (SLT-1), and a 120-volt outlet (SLT-1). You’ll also find many exterior and safety upgrades as you move up through the trim levels.

On the Road

Our Acadia SLT-1 test vehicle came with the 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and front-wheel drive. There is a big difference in power numbers between the two, a point customers should be aware of when considering their vehicle.

The base engine makes 193 horsepower and 188 pound-feet of torque. The V6 has an output of 310 horsepower and 271 pound-feet of torque. Both engines are paired with a six-speed automatic transmission.

The four-cylinder engine makes this SUV feel light on its feet. In front-wheel drive you’ll sense the overall lightness —for some customers, this combination will suit them fine. On the other hand, if it is full trailering capabilities you prize, the base engine won’t be sufficient as it is limited to 1,000 pounds. Choose the V6 and the trailer towing package enables this SUV to reach its maximum 4,000-pound trailering capacity.

Step on the accelerator and the GMC moves away evenly from a full stop. No, you won’t find rapacious amounts of power, but it gets the job done. This model was developed when fuel prices were still high, thus the smaller standard engine. You’ll benefit from a fuel economy edge too, as the standard model makes 21/26 mpg city/highway while the V6 delivers 18/25 mpg city/highway.

One surprise for me was the transmission choice. Given that eight-speed transmissions are more commonplace in today’s vehicles, including with GM products, I was surprised to find that a six-speed automatic is still used. The two extra cogs would have provided slightly better fuel economy and improved off-the-line acceleration. Despite limited to six gears, this proven transmission works seamlessly in the background.

What then should be the measuring criteria when choosing your Acadia engine? It boils down to this: load capacity. Choose the smaller engine if you’re purchasing this SUV and you have a young family — you, your spouse, and a pair of small children. Families with teenagers, people who regularly carry cargo and especially anyone disposed to towing will require the V6.

In any case, the 2017 Acadia offers a comfortable ride with minimal body roll when cornering. For optimum comfort, performance and ride, a Denali model is your best choice. Go with one of the All Terrain packages if off-road prowess is important to you.

Parting Thoughts

The 2017 Acadia replaces a very capable model — that alone was a tall order for vehicle developers. Its smaller footprint and improved efficiency work to deliver a midsize SUV with improved handling.

For shoppers preferring something slightly smaller, the GMC Terrain should be considered. For those wanting more room and the V8 power and trailering capabilities that come with it, the Yukon or Yukon XL should be considered.

Lastly, if you’re shopping at a combined Buick-GMC showroom, the Buick Enclave is available. It is based on the Acadia’s older design with the new model set to reach the market for the 2018 model year. In all, you’ll find no lack of SUV’s available — four GMCs and three Buicks — with the Acadia the newest of the lot.

Recent Review — Tiny Cargo Transporter: 2016 Nissan NV200

Updated SUV: 2017 Ford Escape

October 10, 2016 by admin 9 Comments

Small SUVs are a hot commodity — so much so that at least four models should top 300,000 units sold this year.

The Toyota RAV is in hot pursuit of the segment-leading Honda CR-V, followed by the Nissan Rogue and the Ford Escape. Although sitting in a distant second place among Ford brand products to the F-150, the Escape now outsells Ford’s Fusion sedan, itself one of the top-selling midsize models.

Ford introduced the Escape in 2001, with an updated model appearing six years later. The most important change took place in 2013 when an all-new model was released. The move was significant for Ford as the automaker severed its tie with Mazda (previous models were based on the architecture it shared with the Mazda Tribute) and dropped the hybrid variant. Ford’s compact hybrids are now sold under the C-MAX model range.

The new model offers a modern design, room for five, and three engine choices. Its release was timed perfectly with shifting consumer demand and Ford has reaped those benefits.

But resting on your laurels is dangerous in this business as competitors are quick to pivot in an effort to gain an upper hand. Furthermore, consumers are much less brand loyal than ever as they search for the most modern vehicle with the technology and convenience features that distinguish them.

2017 Ford Escape

For 2017, the Ford Escape is vastly overhauled, reflecting a significant mid product cycle update. It also follows several interim changes Ford has made year-over-year since the third-generation Escape was released.

Indeed, in 2014 Ford shuffled its trims and made a rearview camera and its SYNC telematics system standard across the model line. In 2016, Ford released the third-generation of its SYNC system, replacing MyFord Touch.

The changes for 2017 include refreshed front and rear fascias, a newly available 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine and an updated 2.0-liter, turbocharged four-cylinder engine. Along with a handful of interior updates, this model now provides Apple Car Play and Android Auto compatibility.

Moreover, the Escape’s list of available safety features has expanded to include adaptive cruise control with forward collision alert, lane-departure prevention, and a driver drowsiness monitor. Ford now offers a Sport Appearance Package on the SE and Titanium trim and continues with this model’s maximum 3,500-pond towing capacity.

The 2017 Ford Escape is available in three trims: S ($23,600), SE ($25,100), and Titanium ($29,100). Front-wheel drive is standard; all-wheel drive is available except for the base trim.

Three Engine Choices

A 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine is found on the S model only and makes 168 horsepower and 170 pound-feet of torque. This model makes an EPA-estimated 21 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway.

Both the SE and Titanium models offer a standard 1.5-liter turbo four-cylinder engine making 179 horsepower and 177 pound-feet of torque. Front-wheel-drive models achieve the best fuel economy for the model line, making an EPA-estimated 23 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway.

The two higher trims also offer an available 2.0-liter twin-scroll turbo four-cylinder engine making 245 horsepower and 275 pound-feet of torque. This model makes an EPA-estimated 22 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway.

All three engines are paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. The standard 1,500-pound towing capacity with the base model can be upgraded to 3,500 pounds with the 2.0-liter engine and with the available Class II trailer tow prep package ($495) optioned.

Exterior Highlights

Equipment levels vary (and in some cases widely) from base to high-end model. Standard exterior equipment includes a black grille, 17-inch wheels, halogen headlamps, and power side mirrors.

Upgrades bring in a chrome-accented grille, Bi-Xenon high-intensity discharge headlamps, fog lamps, side mirror turn signal indicators, roof rack rails and cross bars, and a power liftgate. In addition, SE ($1,295) and Titanium ($725) models offer sport appearance packages

Interior Highlights

Keyless entry is standard; push-button start is found in the Titanium model only. Inside, cloth or leather seat trim is included. A power-operated driver’s seat starts at the SE level. Although the Escape offers room for five, it is best suited for four — consider the middle seat position your comfort space with its pull-down armrest and two cup holders (not available in the S model).

Power accessories, a six-speaker audio system, SYNC voice recognition, and climate control is standard. As for the Escape Titanium, a Sony 10-speaker audio system is included. Steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters are found except for the base model.

Standard cargo space is excellent, measuring 34 cubic feet. Not only can you hold all your groceries with ease, but you can pack the back for a long weekend away with the family. If you don’t need the rear seat, then fold it and you’ll double your cargo carrying capacity.

Safety Equipment and Packages

On the safety front, the 2017 Escape achieved “good” scores from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) in four categories: moderate overlap front, side, roof strength, and head restraints & seats. The Institute assigned an acceptable score in the small overlap front test. “Good” is the IIHS’ highest score followed by acceptable, marginal, and poor.

All 2017 Escapes come with a suite of airbags, including a driver’s knee airbag. A rearview camera is standard. Incidentally, most driver assist technologies show up on the Titanium level, but only as part of a $1,995 technology package.

That package includes bi-xenon high-intensity discharge (HID) headlamps with LED signature lamps; auto high beams; enhanced active park assist system with parallel parking, park out assist, reverse perpendicular parking, and forward and side sensing systems; lane-keeping system; rain-sensing windshield wipers; heated steering wheel; and a supplemental PTC heater. Notably, a blind spot information system is a standalone standard item on the Titanium and part of a $1,395 tech package for the SE trim.

On the Road

Our all-wheel drive test model was equipped with the larger turbo engine. Let me say this: it provides much more power than what most people need, but having access to its enhanced performance isn’t something you’ll easily dismiss once experienced.

To illustrate, the mighty four acts like a strong V6 — a generation ago it would have beaten not a few small block V8s in overall performance. Wonderfully, this twin-scroll engine is imbued with better technology than a traditional turbo as it gathers engine exhaust from cylinder pairs in alternating sequence. Specifically, these alternating pushes go far in eliminating lag, the bane of turbo engines.

All things considered, you’ll zip away from a dead stop and tap robust power as you race down the road. No, the Escape isn’t meant for racing, but with all-wheel drive, adept steering, and confident handling, you’ll shine on the straightaways. Twisty roads mean you’ll experience some body roll, but it is far from what you’d face with front-wheel drive only or with larger, more cumbersome models. The Escape shares its DNA with the Ford Focus, one of the more competent small cars out there.

Parting Thoughts

Clearly, the 2017 Escape is a compelling model. It also becomes quite pricey when choosing the Titanium model, the available twin-scroll engine, and several packages. As a matter of fact, more than $35,000 pricey when fully loaded. That’s a high price to pay for a small SUV.

Instead of the Titanium, consider the SE trim. If you need all-wheel drive and prefer such equipment as BLIS, reverse sensing, an upgraded audio package, and SYNC 3, then the $1,395 equipment group is a must. Add in a panoramic vista roof ($1,495) and the power liftgate ($495) and you’ll pay about $30,000 to acquire this vehicle. At any rate, that’s a price point in line with it competitors, although you’re also forgoing the more powerful engine and a number of driver assistance features.

Recent Review — Introducing the Second-Generation GMC Acadia

Refreshed: 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport

August 25, 2016 by admin 5 Comments

Now in its fourth year, the midsize Santa Fe Sport SUV has been mildly refreshed.

Hyundai has the midsize SUV segment nailed down with two very similar models: the two-row, five-passenger Santa Fe Sport and the three-row, seven-passenger Santa Fe. The latter one is based entirely on the former with an extra four inches present between the wheels to accommodate the third row.

From 2001 to 2013, there was only the Santa Fe, initially a compact crossover then later a midsize SUV. Both models offered room for five and that’s when Hyundai knew it needed a third model to serve an expanding market, especially following the demise of the seven-seat Hyundai Veracruz. So, with the release of the third-generation Santa Fe in 2014 the model line split was on.

2017 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport 2.0T Ultimate

A 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport 2.0T Ultimate edition was a recent weekly visitor, representing the highest of three trim levels for this model. Hyundai prices the 2017 Santa Fe Sport from $25,350 for the standard Sport edition, $31,700 for the Sport 2.0T, and $36,500 for the 2.0T Ultimate. Front-wheel drive is the standard and all-wheel drive is available.

Now in its fourth year, the current-generation 2017 Santa Fe Sport benefits from a mid-product cycle update with refreshed front and rear styling. An available 7-inch color display is now compatible with both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The available safety features include adaptive headlights with automatic high beams, an electronic emergency parking brake, a surround view parking camera, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control with automatic emergency braking.

The safety changes should help the 2017 Santa Fe Sport once again garner the prestigious Top Safety Pick+ award from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). This model also carries a 5-star safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Both awards enable the Hyundai to stay at the forefront of all things safety.

Two Powertrain Choices

You get a choice of two powertrain combinations with the 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport.

All Sport models are powered by a 2.4-liter, four-cylinder engine making 185 horsepower and 178 foot-pounds of torque. This engine is paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission with manual shifting capabilities. It is EPA-rated at 21 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway.

Choose the Sport 2.0T and the Sport 2.0T Ultimate editions and your models are powered by a 2.0-liter, turbocharged four-cylinder engine making 240 horsepower and 260 foot-pounds of torque. This engine is paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission and it also allows for manual shifting. Fuel economy is nearly the same coming in at an EPA-rated 20 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway. Both models take regular grade gasoline.

Exterior Styling Overview

Hyundai’s styling direction began to change in 2010 with the release of the updated Sonata midsize sedan. Since then, every model has benefited from what the automaker calls “fluidic sculpture,” and most current Hyundai models now reflect the latest version of it.

Up front, this model features a trapezoidal grille, sleek wraparound headlamps with LED accents, available fog lamps, and a sporty lower intake. Deep creases along the hood only amplify this model’s frontal presentation.

Along the sides, you’ll find a rising belt line, a sloping roof line, upper and lower character lines, additional sculpting, and fashionable alloy wheels. From the rear, this SUV offers a tailgate spoiler, wraparound combination lamps, reflector lights, and yet more sculpting and lines. Overall, the look is athletic, suggesting a model ready to take on the road.

Standard exterior equipment includes automatic headlights, manual folding heated side mirrors, a rear spoiler, and alloy wheels — 17-, 18-, or 19-inches. Depending on the trim, you can also get roof side and cross rails, side mirror turn signal indicators, HID headlights with LED accents, LED daytime running lights, LED tail lights, a proximity key with push-button start, and a hands-free liftgate with automatic open.

The 2.0T Ultimate test model had each of these features. The only option was the HID headlights with dynamic bending light technology, designed to turn the headlights with the direction of the curve as you turn the steering wheel. It offers an extra measure of safety as it allows you to see on the far corners and pick up something that may typically reside just outside your line of sight — such as that whitetail ready to make a move in front of your vehicle.

Interior Styling and Amenities

Inside, the cabin is airy and bright with similar curves and lines as offered on the exterior. The instrument panel is dominated by a pair of oval housings for the speedometer and tachometer; the digital driver’s information display is located between the two.

The center stack offers a modern expression with the color display flanked by a pair of wing-like vents. Beneath that are knobs and switches controlling the climate and audio systems. At the base of the stack is an open storage area featuring USB connections and a 12-volt outlet.

Between the front seats is the transmission shifter, a pair of cupholders, and an armrest doing double duty as a deep storage area. All four doors provide bottle holders and additional storage. Two more cupholders are found in the rear when you pull down the center arm rest.

The Santa Fe Sport provides room for five and without compromise. The front seats are firm, yet supportive. The rear 40-20-40 bench seat holds three with ease — you’ll find sufficient head, shoulder, hip, and leg room back there.

One of my favorite features about this model is the generous standard storage space — 35.4 cubic feet. Fold down the second-row seat and that space doubles. You’ll also find a nifty under floor compartmentalized storage tray in this SUV. It’s ideal for secreting away items out of view or for holding in place your groceries. The spare tire is located underneath the vehicle.

Hyundai provides a long list of standard features, including numerous convenience touches. The stain-resistant cloth covered seats are standard; leather seats are included except with the base model. All models come equipped with power accessories, a tilt and telescopic steering column, steering wheel-mounted controls, illuminated vanity mirrors, a center console display, and an audio system.

Also available is zoned climate control, power front seats with driver lumbar control, heated and ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, a heated steering wheel, manual rear side window sunshades, Blue Link connected car services, a 12-speaker Infinity audio system, and touchscreen navigation. Again, because I had the top-of-the-line model, everything was included. The only extras were the adaptive cruise control and the electronic parking brake.

On the Road

Taking this SUV on the road is a joy. Admittedly, the turbo took some getting used to as the expected lag held up the full force of power, but not for long. Quite frankly, this SUV kicks it and that means there is no lack of power once the turbo has spooled up. Fortunately, full-on power comes along low in the RPM band and keeps on giving. You’ll feel copious amounts of power at work as you pick up speed — thankfully I had all-wheel drive as I can imagine that torque steer is quite noticeable when combining the turbo with front-wheel drive.

Not many SUVs are fun on twisty roads, but this one is. Even though it is on the heavy side — weighing in at just over 5,000 pounds — there is a certain agility present. Switch the drive mode to Sport and you’ll notice a change in engine throttle response and steering feel — along with all-wheel drive, all this is amplified with all-wheel drive. Very little pitching was felt as the Santa Fe Sport stayed planted as I deftly navigated the back roads an hour south of my home. No, I wasn’t about to rip into my turns at full speed. At the same time, I didn’t find myself frequently braking in an effort to keep this SUV under control. As for braking, I found the brakes are firm with very little fade of note.

Parting Thoughts

There aren’t too many midsize SUVs with two rows — most models offer three rows. The Santa Fe Sport goes up against some formidable competition in the Ford Edge, Nissan Murano, and the Jeep Grand Cherokee, but it holds its own. And it does so without offering a V6 engine option — all three competitors have them.

Personally, I would steer away from the standard model with the base engine simply for the reason it doesn’t offer anywhere near the power of the turbo. And all-wheel drive only enhances this model’s handling capabiliity, what also serves as a safety factor under certain driving conditions.

In all, Hyundai has a strong competitor in the Santa Fe Sport, a model that is sporty, roomy, comfortable, and comes well equipped.

2017 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport 2.0T Ultimate

Sticker price from $38,250
Price as tested: $40,820
Seats 5
2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four gasoline engine
240 horsepower @ 6,000 RPM
260 foot-pounds of torque @ 1,450 to 3,500 RPM
3.39 inches bore by 3.39 inches stroke
Engine compression ratio: 10.0-to-1
6-speed automatic transmission
Wheelbase: 106.3 inches
Length: 185 inches
Width: 74 inches
Height: 66.1 inches
Passenger volume: 108 cubic feet
Storage volume: 35.4/71.5 cubic feet
Towing capacity: From 1,650 pounds (3,500 pounds with trailer brakes)
EPA: 19 mpg city, 24 mpg highway
Regular grade gasoline
Fuel tank: 17.4 gallons
Curb weight: 5,159 pounds
IIHS safety rating: Top Safety Pick+ (2016)
Limited vehicle warranty: 5 years/60,000 miles
Powertrain warranty: 10 years/100,000 miles
Corrosion warranty: 7 years/unlimited miles
Vehicle assembly: West Point, Georgia

Luxury Pickup Trucks Outsell European Models

December 15, 2014 by admin 2 Comments

Ford’s F-Series brings in huge profits.

2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee Overland — Certain Jeep Grand Cherokee models fetch transaction prices above $50,000,
including Summit and SRT.

Shop for a luxury vehicle and your eyes may feast upon the Mercedes-Benz E350 sedan, BMW’s X5 xDrive35i crossover or the Lexus RCF sports car. Each high-end model sells for more than $50,000, a price point that demonstrates mass-produced luxury at its finest.

The Best Selling Luxury Models

As much as consumers are demonstrating interest in luxury vehicles from Europe, Asia and North America, these models do not dominate the premium segment or what represents vehicles with transaction prices above $50,000. According to TrueCar, Inc. — a car buying and selling platform — six of the top 10 best selling models are premium pickup trucks and sport utility vehicles sold by non-premium brands, including Ford, Ram, GMC and Chevrolet.

Indeed, TrueCar says that Ford will sell approximately 189,776 units of its popular F-Series pickup truck this year with a transaction price exceeding $50,000. That’s out of more than 700,000 overall units for its best-selling model, outpacing sales for several luxury brands, including Audi and Cadillac.

“Conventional wisdom says German premium brands would dominate the list of top-selling vehicles over $50,000,” said John Krafcik, president of TrueCar. “The reality is that this price segment of the market is dominated by American pickups and SUVs sold through non-premium brand dealers.”

GMC Sierra Denali

High-end interiors as found in this GMC Sierra Denali are the
hallmark of pickup trucks with high transaction prices.

Improving Economy, Rising Consumer Demand

TrueCar identifies several reasons for interest in luxury trucks and SUVs. For one, the US economy has been showing steady improvement, with housing starts on the rise and fuel prices falling. Fuel prices have tumbled dramatically this year and are expected to stay well below recent highs for several years. More money in consumer pockets and lower operating costs may continue to shift customers to larger and more luxurious vehicles such at the Ram Laramie Longhorn and the GMC Yukon Denali.

Industry volume continues to rise and with that comes rising demand for more luxurious vehicles. For 2014, TrueCar estimates that about 8.1 percent of the market will be for cars and trucks costing consumers at least $50,000, a huge jump from the 6.6 percent in 2013. The company’s data reveals that the average transaction price for new vehicles this year is $31,831 with industry sales growing by 5.4 percent.

Ford F-150 Transaction Prices

While Ford is busy resurrecting its premium Lincoln brand, the company’s big money has long come from its line of full-sized pickup trucks. Total transaction prices for its best-seller will bring in an estimated $10.8 billion this year and $32.2 billion for the entire line.

The second best selling luxury pickup truck line is not from GMC, Toyota or Chevrolet, but from Ram, a Fiat Chrysler division. This year, Ram should sell an estimated 76,266 units of its 1500 Series with a transaction price of at least $50,000. That number exceeds the estimated 67,006 units for the Mercedes-Benz E-Class, widely recognized at the benchmark model for the luxury segment.

Other top performers include the Chevrolet Tahoe, Chevrolet Silverado, Chevrolet Suburban and the GMC Sierra. Two Mercedes-Benz and two BMW models are also among the top 10 vehicles with transaction prices exceeding $50,000 (see chart).

TrueCar luxury prices

New Premium Price Benchmark

Krafcik, the former CEO of Hyundai Motor America, noted that the $30,000 threshold was once the demarcation line for premium vehicles only. Today, that mark is at $50,000 and is one well served by the likes of the Ford Expedition, Chevrolet Tahoe and even the Jeep Grand Cherokee Summit.

Chart courtesy of TrueCar, Inc. Photos copyright Auto Trends Magazine.

Revealed: 2015 Chevrolet Suburban

September 12, 2013 by admin 1 Comment

Model names like Corolla, Civic and Beetle seem to have been around forever, but it is the Chevrolet Suburban that takes the prize as the longest continual model in the world. Come 2015 it will celebrate its 80th anniversary, representing 12 generational changes dating to the heart of the Great Depression.

80th Anniversary Model

To mark its anniversary, an all-new model will make its debut in the first quarter of 2014. That model, the 2015 Chevrolet Suburban, will be joined by the smaller Tahoe as well as the similar GMC Yukon and Yukon XL. All four models will preserve the body-on-frame truck characteristics that have long defined this line. Unibody construction? Don’t count on it for many more years.

The release of the next generation Chevrolet Suburban comes as large SUV sales continue to rise. This, despite gas prices that are well above $3 per gallon across the country, approaching or topping $4 per gallon in some states. Through the first six months of this year, Chevrolet Suburban sales are up 16 percent, keeping pace with industry-wide growth.

GM is bullish about its big SUVs, profitable vehicles that maintain a loyal customer base. These vehicles are popular with large families, outdoor enthusiasts and are oftentimes marshaled as fleet vehicles, providing the livery support that many companies want. Said Dan Amman, GM executive vice president and CFO, “This is an important and profitable segment and we have set the bar high to ensure we provide our customers with great quality and performance they expect and deserve.”

Direct Injection Small Block V-8

The standard engine for the 2015 Chevrolet Suburban is GM’s small-block V-8 displacing at 5.3 liters. This engine makes 355 horsepower at 5,600 rpm and 383 foot-pounds of torque at 4,100 rpm. It features direct fuel injection with cylinder deactivation, the latter shuts down four cylinders at highway cruising speed to conserve gasoline. This engine is teamed with a six-speed automatic transmission.

The Chevrolet Suburban adds 14 inches to the Tahoe’s 116-inch wheelbase and is 224 inches long. That’s 20 more inches than the Tahoe. The width for both vehicles is 80.5 inches; height comes in at 74.4 inches. Chevrolet Suburban curb weight ranges from 5,576 to 5,815 pounds, shedding just over 100 pounds in the 4×2 model while maintaining nearly the same weight as the current 4×4 Suburban.

See Also — 2019 Chevrolet Silverado & a Turbo Four

Chevrolet Suburban Amenities and Options

The twelfth generation Chevrolet Suburban brings in many new features including keyless entry with push-button start, an eight-inch color screen with the latest version of Chevrolet MyLink, up to six ports and six power outlets including a three-prong 110-volt outlet, an available rear seat entertainment system with dual screens and a Blu-Ray DVD player, fold flat second- and third-row seats, and a conversation mirror.

A 360-degree radar system is also new, part of a safety package that includes crash avoidance and passenger protection. Other safety features included or available are: forward collision alert, front parking assist, lane departure warning with lane keeping assist, rear traffic cross alert and adaptive cruise control. A center stack airbag, unique to GM, will be included with both the Tahoe and Suburban.

The exterior is marked by the latest Chevrolet truck/SUV fascia and includes projector-beam headlamps. Choose the LTZ edition and high-intensity discharge headlamps and light-emitting diode daytime running lamps are included.

GM says that the next-generation Chevrolet Suburban and Tahoe is quieter than the current edition with improved steering and braking feel. This model features a stronger frame, a wider rear track, magnetic ride control with the LTZ edition, standard 18-inch wheels and available 20- and 22-inch wheels, variable-assist power steering, and four-wheel disc brakes.

Made in Texas, USA

GM taps its assembly plant in Arlington, Texas, to build its large Chevrolet and GMC SUVs. That plant will begin production of the 2015 Chevrolet Suburban later this year, continuing a long string of full-bodied SUVs that have played an integral part in the North American auto industry.

See Also — At a Glance: 2014 Chevrolet Silverado

Photo courtesy of General Motors Company.