Archives for July 2019

Lemon Law Guidance for
New Vehicle Owners

July 11, 2019 by admin 1 Comment

When you purchase a new car, you expect it to operate as planned. However, some models are prone to problems and may require multiple visits to the repair shop. A minor problem here and there is understandable, but the situation persists or worsens, then you may own a lemon car. Worse, are those problems no longer covered by the warranty, requiring you to pay up.

If your car is a lemon, you may find recourse under the federal Magnuson–Moss Warranty Act. (Title 15 Chapter 50 of the U.S. Code). Also, expanded protection may come at the state level as enacted used car lemon laws work beyond the federal requirements. You may be able to manage the process yourself, but if your situation is outstandingly bad, then hiring an attorney who specializes in lemon law cases may be the best approach.

First Step — Review the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) enforces the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act to ensure that consumers are protected.

Specifically, the act “makes it illegal for manufacturers or dealers to claim that your warranty is void or to deny coverage under your warranty simply because someone other than the dealer did the work.” However, if the repair was done incorrectly and caused other problems, such as engine damage, the affected part may no longer be covered under the vehicle’s warranty.

The FTC advises consumers to understand their vehicle’s warranty by reading it and knowing the warranty period. Furthermore, owners should service their vehicles at regular intervals, keep all service records and receipts, and articulate their complaints to service personnel and supervisors if they are not satisfied with the work. Typically, this act applies to purchasers of new vehicles.

Second Step — Contact Your State’s Office of the Attorney General

Every state has an Office of the Attorney General, an individual who serves as the main legal advisor to the government. Also known as “advocates general” and “procurator,” this professional is the chief law enforcement officer in that state. Importantly, existing used car lemon laws are under his or her bailiwick.

Therefore, inquire at the Office of the Attorney General about your state’s lemon law. You will likely find that there is a complaint procedure you must follow before heading to the next step. You should know that used car lemon laws vary from state to state.

Third Step — Review Your State’s Used Car Lemon Law

If after following the two earlier steps you still are not getting your problems resolved or if you suspect your vehicle will never operate as intended, you should examine your state’s used car lemon law. A copy of that law should be available online through your state’s website, otherwise you can usually obtain a copy by visiting the Attorney General’s office.

It is at this point where state laws vary. That said, there may be certain prevalent aspects to consider. For example, you should know when your state’s lemon law was enacted and whether your car is covered under the law. The good news is that all 50 states have lemon laws in place.

If your car is covered, the state will outline the repair procedures and the steps you must follow. Typically, this involves notifying the manufacturer or the dealer within a certain timeframe.

To illustrate, in South Carolina after three unsuccessful repair attempts for the same defect and a cumulative 30 days of out-of-service time, your car would be considered a lemon. In this example, the manufacturer must give you a refund — including the vehicle’s cost, sales tax, license fees, and registration fees. Otherwise, the manufacturer would replace your vehicle.

You should know that if you purchased your vehicle from a private party, you may not be protected by your state’s used car lemon law. In that case, you should consult with an attorney for advice regarding possible remedies. For instance, if the value of the car is under $3,000, making a claim in small claims court is advisable.

Your state may also require dealers of used cars to provide you with a written warranty. For example, in New York, that warranty is usually called a “lemon law warranty” or what spells out your rights, including repairs that will be made at no cost to you. That warranty must accompany your sales contract or lease.

Fourth Step — Consult with an Attorney

If at this point you have not consulted with an attorney and are still not satisfied with the repair process or if you believe your rights are not being protected, then it is time to find a qualified attorney. Reach out to your state’s bar association and ask for the names of at least three attorneys specializing in lemon law and contact each one to gauge how they may assist you.

An attorney may offer an initial consultation for free, explaining what recourse is available to you along with their fee. If you choose to sue, that fee may be paid by the manufacturer or the dealer, but only if you win. There is a decent chance your case will be settled out of court if your suit is a strong one.

Used Car Lemon Laws

In summation, if your car is still under the manufacturer’s original warranty, your dealer will handle those repairs per the warranty. If you are not satisfied with a dealer, you can visit another shop. If your problem is still not satisfied, insist that the manufacturer’s regional representative becomes involved.

For used cars, your state’s lemon law may offer the best protection. Follow these steps carefully to ensure that the repairs are made to your satisfaction, otherwise a full refund or a replacement vehicle may be in order.

Persist Until You’re Successful

With potentially thousands of dollars on the line and in some cases family safety a concern, it is important for consumers to see a lemon car problem through until an equitable resolution is reached.

This may mean taking an unconventional approach, especially if you haven’t yet contacted an attorney. For example, a News 6 Orlando news team investigated one consumer’s claim of a defective Hyundai Sonata SE sedan and was able to help the woman settle with the automaker.

Initially, Hyundai admitted its fault and offered to repurchase the vehicle. However, the settlement did not cover $850 she had paid toward the car. The news team intervened and Hyundai responded by nearly doubling their previous offer.

Photo Attribution: André Karwath aka Aka [CC BY-SA 2.5 (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.5)]

The History of the Pontiac Fiero

July 10, 2019 by admin 4 Comments

In the 1980s General Motors produced a mid-engine, two-seat sports car and named it the Pontiac Fiero. Just as the Corvette elevated Chevrolet, GM hoped the Fiero would do likewise for Pontiac. Its five-year model run started off strong, but quality problems and declining interest eventually killed what is now a classic car.

1985 Pontiac Fiero (Public domain photo via Wikimedia).

Pontiac Fiero Overview

The Pontiac Fiero was produced from 1984 to 1988. Planning for the new model began in the late 1970s with project engineers proposing a two-seat, mid-engine design that no US manufacturer had tackled before. GM launched “Project Pegasus” with the intent to develop a high-volume commuter car with sports-car-handsome looks. The Fiero name was chosen, one that has several meanings including “fierce” and “wild” in Spanish and “proud” in Italian.

To save weight, polymer body panels were used. To save money, its designers went to the GM parts bin to assemble the car. The original powertrain came from the Chevrolet Citation. It shared its front suspension with the Chevrolet Chevette and its rear suspension came from the Pontiac Phoenix. Its side view mirrors came from the Pontiac Firebird.

In all, 13 separate polymer panels were attached to the Fiero’s steel space frame by way of a mill and drill production procedure to connect the panels. That technique was later employed to build the Chevrolet Camaro and Pontiac Firebird.

A three-quarter rear view of the 1985 Pontiac Fiero GT. Attribution: Mr.choppers [CC BY-SA 3.0 (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0)]

Pontiac Fiero: First Year

The first-year Pontiac Fiero was outfitted with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and paired with a four-speed manual or to an optional three-speed automatic transmission. This rear-wheel-drive model made 92 horsepower and was outfitted with four-wheel independent suspension, manual steering, upgraded brakes, a removable sunroof, and bolstered bucket seats with headrest-integrated audio speakers.

The 1984 model was available from $8,000 and in four trim levels, including the Fiero Indy. The Indy version was based on the design of the Pontiac Fiero pace car that led the 1984 Indianapolis 500 field, representing approximately 2,000 of 136,840 units sold that first model year.

See Also — Mid-Engine Marvel: C8 Corvette Debuts

Four More Years

Despite first-year sales that exceeded the company’s required 100,000-unit minimum, several changes were made to the Pontiac Fiero for its second model year. GM turned to Isuzu its Japanese partner for a five-speed manual transmission. It also made available its 2.8-liter Iron Duke V-6 engine, rated at 140 horsepower and 160 foot-pounds of torque, pairing it with a four-speed Muncie transmission.

The Fiero’s available V6 engine makes 140 horsepower. Attribution: Yellowstone [CC BY-SA 3.0 (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/)]

For its third model year, a fastback body style was introduced with the Fiero GT, while the Sport and SE editions retained the coupe layout. The V6 engine also received a transmission upgrade when a Getrag five-speed manual shifter was introduced.

Beginning in 1987, Pontiac tweaked the base coupe’s front and rear fascia and increased the four-cylinder engine’s horsepower. A new suspension system, upgraded brakes and steering, and refinements to both engines were made in 1988 in a bid to improve falling sales.

Fiero Means Fire

Early on, problems with the Pontiac Fiero began to surface. Engine fires resulting from defective connecting rods and problems with engine block casting cast a pall over the model. Consumer advocate Ralph Nader zeroed in on the problems, what affected roughly one in every 400 models built.

In 1987, GM recalled 125,000 first-year models to make engine modifications, issuing a second recall in 1989 to cover every Pontiac Fiero model produced. GM had already stopped making its mid-engine sports car the previous year as demand burned out.

The Pontiac Fiero was an innovative idea, but making that conceptual dream a production reality meant compromising along the way. Later models provided many enhancements including a V6 engine that roughly matched its persona. However, quality problems scorched the Fiero and ultimately contributed to its demise.

Built-in speaker headrests were a novelty with the Fiero, but are much more common today. (Public domain photo via Wikimedia).

See Also — Gone in a Flash: Pontiac G8

Volkswagen Arteon:
CC Spiritual Successor

July 8, 2019 by admin 4 Comments

You may count yourself among the consumers who have shifted their new vehicle purchase decisions from cars to utility vehicles, but that isn’t stopping some manufacturers from offering new or updated car models. Indeed, Volkswagen continues to double down with its Golf, Jetta, and Passat lines, even as sales skew more toward its Tiguan and Atlas SUVs.

New for 2019 is yet another model name: the Volkswagen Arteon. This model arrives just as VW says good-bye again to the Beetle. But unlike the Beetle, the Arteon slots at the top of the brand’s model line, delivering premium features in an unlikely liftback design.

Most certainly, the Volkswagen Arteon is not like any other current VW model. Yet, it is what VW calls the “spiritual successor” of the retired CC, a coupe-like sedan sold from 2010 to 2017. Like the CC, the Arteon is about the size of the Passat midsize sedan. Unlike the CC, this one offers generous rear storage space and a much more powerful turbocharged four-cylinder engine.

Importantly, the Arteon does something we haven’t seen in a Volkswagen in many years, at least not since the opulent Phaeton left our shores in 2006: it delivers Audi-like looks and premium features, and does so at a reasonable cost.

2019 Volkswagen Arteon Overview

The 2019 VW Arteon comes with standard front-wheel drive and available all-wheel drive. All models are powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission.

Three trim levels are available: SE ($35,845), SEL ($39,995), and SEL Premium R-Line ($46,210). Add $1,800 for Volkswagen’s 4MOTION all-wheel-drive system on the SE. Upgrading to all-wheel drive on the SEL also brings in R-Line trim. The cost here is $43,560. A $995 destination charge is extra. As for the top-trim model, it comes with standard all-wheel drive.

Wheels as large as 20 inches grace the 2019 VW Arteon.

A Matter of Style

The Volkswagen Arteon sits on the brand’s modular architecture, which does a number of things, including supplying customized sizing. The Arteon is about the size of a Passat, delivering a slightly longer wheelbase, while measuring just a half-inch longer overall. The Arteon is wider and sits lower than the Passat, and has slightly less passenger volume, but it comes with a huge rear storage compartment.

Indeed, that storage area is the difference maker here as it supplies 27.2 cubic feet of standard space or 55 cubic feet with the rear seat folded. On the other hand, the Passat has a traditional trunk measuring 15.9 cubic feet. That’s still large, but in comparison, the Arteon’s space is cavernous — not unlike a utility vehicle.

It was “smitten at first sight” when we cast our eyes on the Arteon. Its long, sleek body suggests a sedan from the front and sides, but it is only when you concentrate on the rear that it is evident this vehicle is something else. In particular, the long and wide rear window is the chief indicator that this car finishes with a liftgate, delivering what the manufacturer calls a fastback design.

And what does the term “fastback” remind you of? Immediately, I thought of Audi, which is the Volkswagen Group’s top-selling luxury marque. Audi calls its coupe-like sedans “sportbacks,” but the design elements are the same. The Arteon has a canvas that takes elements from the Audi A5 Sportback and A7. Actually, the layout is closer to the A7, while costing half as much.

The bold front fascia makes an immediate luxurious and sporty presence on the Arteon. A broad grille with multiple horizontal slots is honed in by stately headlamps. LED accent lights add distinction, while huge cutouts offset the lower grille. Tasteful character lines run from the top of the grille to the windshield. The hood itself has a near clamshell look.

From the sides, the Arteon’s visage is peppered with chrome trim and includes stylish wheels, measuring as large as 20 inches on some trims. A long roofline gradually drops to the rear deck, forming the liftgate design. From the rear, the fascia features a built-in spoiler, which adds a sporty touch. Wide and narrow wraparound tail lamps, reflector lights, and dual exhaust tips complete the presentation.

A roomy interior marks the VW Arteon. (Photo copyright Volkswagen Group).

Inside, the Arteon is a mixed bag. We give this vehicle high marks for its roomy interior, especially with its large rear-seat compartment. That space reminded us of the room available in the Toyota Avalon. Even so, if you’re taller than six feet, headroom is constrained by the sloping roof.

Volkswagen dresses the Arteon in a variety of materials, including available Nappa leather and padding. Still, hard plastics are found here and there — on the center stack and at the base the dashboard. The knobs and switches are what you’d find in most other mainstream models.

Safety & Technology

As for safety features, the 2019 Arteon has standard forward collision warning and autonomous emergency braking with pedestrian monitoring. You’ll also find side assist, rear traffic alert, and the now mandated rearview camera.

Adaptive cruise control with stop and go is standard beginning with the SEL trim. Features such as lane keeping system, parking steering assist, and an overhead view camera, are only available on the top-trim SEL Premium model.

The Arteon’s interior features upscale and mainstream materials. (Photo copyright Volkswagen Group).

On the tech front, Volkswagen supplies the Arteon with an 8-inch touchscreen display. An 8-speaker audio system, satellite radio, Bluetooth, and two USB ports are standard. Smartphone connectivity via Android Auto and Apple CarPlay are possible through the standard VW Car-Net app suite.

Beginning with the SEL trim, VW adds a digital cockpit, navigation, and a security system. The SEL Premium model supplies a 12-speaker Dynaudio sound package.

On the Road

We’re pleased Volkswagen supplies Audi’s version of the company’s turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine in the Arteon. This same-sized engine powers the Passat, but delivers just 184 horsepower to the 268 horsepower in the Arteon. Credit larger turbos and special tuning for producing more power in the latter. Also, the Passat has a six-speed automatic transmission, while the Arteon has an eight-speed.

The extra performance certainly comes in handy, although step-off power is only modest. Once the turbos spool, the Arteon delivers V6-like power and the transmission complies by shifting smoothly. In sport mode, the steering, suspension and transmission sharpen, delivering an improved connection to the road. The available 4MOTION all-wheel-drive system found in our test model keeps this four-door planted and reminds us of Audi’s quattro system. That’s especially helpful on slippery and twisty roads, where extra grip is needed.

This TSI engine produces 268 horsepower. (Photo copyright Volkswagen Group.)

There is an important weight distinction between the Passat and Arteon, something that’s noticeable after a while. The front-wheel-drive Arteon weighs 370 pounds more than the Passat. With 4MOTION, the weight difference is 569 pounds. Drive these models back to back and I think you’ll detect the difference. Again, the more powerful engine in the Arteon certainly helps.

Our R-Line test model has the sporty looks with big 20-inch tires its signature design element. We’d only wish the 3.6-liter V6 now offered only in the Atlas SUV was present here and specially tuned to deliver at least 300 horsepower — in the Atlas, it delivers a modest 276 horsepower. An optional V6 would give the Arteon the power edge it needs to take on the Buick Regal GS and the Kia Stinger GT, which are two other midsize liftgate models.

Auto Trends Recommends

An Arteon in SEL trim supplies many of the upgrades shoppers want, including Nappa leather (imitation leather is standard) seats, a panoramic sunroof, and adaptive cruise control, among other features. We prefer all-wheel drive and strongly recommend it to customers living in wintry areas.

Opt for the R-Line trim, available across the model line, and it is a $1,265 upgrade ($1,765 with 20-inch wheels). This trim brings in gloss black trim, paddle shifters, contrast stitching, a black headliner, and stainless steel door sills and pedal caps. Thus, an SEL model with 4MOTION and R-Line trim will cost around $45,000.

Of course, if your budget is limited, then a Passat is a wise alternative. Indeed, a well-equipped model costs about $30,000, which is in line with other mainstream sedans, including the Toyota Camry, Nissan Altima, and Hyundai Sonata.

The liftgate design opens to a huge storage compartment.

2019 Volkswagen Arteon

Sticker price from $35,845 (plus $850 destination charge)
Price as tested: $39,905
Seats five
Engine: 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four gas
268 horsepower @ 5,500 RPM
258 foot-pounds of torque @ 1,950 RPM
8-speed automatic transmission
Wheelbase: 111.7 inches
Length: 191.4 inches
Width: 73.7 inches
Height: 56.5 inches
Passenger volume: 96.2 cubic feet
Storage volume: 27.2/55 cubic feet
Towing capacity: NR
EPA: 22/31/25 (FWD) 20/27/23 mpg city/highway/combined)
Premium gasoline recommended
Fuel tank: 17.4 gallons
Curb weight: From 3,655 (FWD) to 3,854 (AWD) pounds
IIHS safety rating: Good, except for marginal passenger side
Limited vehicle warranty: 6 years/72,000 miles
Powertrain warranty: 6 years/72,000 miles
Corrosion warranty: 7 years/100,000 miles
Vehicle assembly: Emden, Germany

Photos copyright Auto Trends Magazine unless otherwise indicated.

History of the Honda Civic

July 5, 2019 by admin 6 Comments

The first-generation Honda Civic, a right-hand hatchback.
(Public domain photo via Wikimedia)

A casual look at the automotive landscape over the past half-century and you will see how the Japanese automakers have penetrated the US market to become the automotive powerhouses that they are known as today.

From humble beginnings in the late 1950s to its market strength today, companies such as Honda, Toyota and Nissan have introduced dozens of models, including some that are the industry’s best sellers. Honda itself has achieved great respect in America for introducing fuel-efficient and high-quality small cars including the Civic.

Originally a subcompact model, the Civic has grown into a compact line with near midsize interior room, a vehicle that is also built in America.

American Honda History

Years before Honda began selling automobiles in the United States, this Japanese manufacturer established a U.S. subsidiary, American Honda Motor Co. in 1959. The company established its headquarters in Los Angeles and immediately began to market its line of motorcycles. By the mid-1960s it was an established leader, adding trail bikes to reach a younger audience.

In 1969, Honda introduced its first car, the N600, to the Hawaiian market and then to three western states, including California. Originally sold through motorcycle dealerships, Honda realized that Americans preferred shopping for cars through car dealerships, something it began to do in 1973 as the Honda Civic went on sale.

The fourth-generation Civic was sold from 1987 to 1991.
(Public domain photo via Wikimedia)

First-Generation Honda Civic

Honda’s entrance into the US car market was perfect timing. When the Honda Civic, its first widely available model went on sale, America was experiencing the first of two gas shortages that sent up fuel prices and had consumers looking at smaller, fuel-efficient cars. The Honda Civic was an all-new model, replacing the Honda 1300 it had sold in Japan.

The original Honda Civic was introduced in 1972 as a 1973 model, that vehicle was available as a coupe, a three-door hatchback, and a five-door hatchback. The first-generation Honda Civic featured an 1169 cc engine and had power disc brakes, reclining front bucket seats, and an AM/FM radio, equipment not offered or costing customers extra in competing, mostly American models. Immediately, Honda established a reputation for providing value, laying the foundation for model and brand success.

Winning New Customers

Honda’s success with the Civic can be attributed to several things including delivering a high-quality vehicle at a competitive price. Three years after the Civic was introduced, Honda stretched the hatchback’s wheelbase and created the Accord. Both models fueled Honda’s ascendancy and enabled this Japanese automaker to conserve costs by interchanging many parts between the two models.

Honda’s strategy with the Civic also included updating this vehicle frequently with product cycles as short as four years where six years was the industry norm. This allowed Honda to set the pace among small car producers and win new customers to the brand.

The seventh-generation Civic was offered from 2000 to 2005.
(Public domain photo via Wikimedia)

The second-generation model was introduced in 1979, coming in larger and with a 1335 cc engine. It offered a four-speed automatic and a five-speed manual transmission, something only its Japanese competitors offered.

Honda continued to build up and out the Civic line, through the 1980s and 1990s, adding different body styles including wagon and two-seat variants. In 1996 a natural gas model was introduced.

Modern Honda Civics

By 2000, the Honda Civic had completed its sixth generation, with a newly refreshed seventh=generation model released just before the turn of the millennium. That vehicle was sold in coupe and sedan configurations with a special Si three-door hatchback also available. It also marked the beginning of the Civic’s move from a subcompact to a compact model, following the Accord’s earlier move to a midsize model from a compact.

The seventh-generation Honda Civic also welcomed its first hybrid model, outfitted with a 1.3-liter gasoline engine and paired with a five-speed manual or a continuously variable transmission. The 2003 Honda Civic Hybrid was rated at 38 mpg in the city and 45 mpg on the highway.

Honda began stretching out the model generations for the Civic beginning with the seventh-generation edition, taking five years before the eighth-generation model was introduced. By then, the Honda brand was adding new models including its first pickup truck and a midsize crossover model.

The tenth-generation Civic includes a sporty coupe.

The eighth-generation model, introduced in 2005, assigned the coupe and sedan to one platform and the hatchback to a different platform. Throughout the 2000s the Honda Civic maintained its status as one of the top 10 best-selling cars in the country, typically competing with the Toyota Corolla as the top-selling compact.

In 2011, with the introduction of the ninth-generation model, Honda continued to offer gasoline and natural gas models, and also brought back the Civic Hybrid it had discontinued briefly a few years earlier. In 2015, Honda rolled out the tenth-generation Civic, available in sedan, coupe, five-door hatchback, Si trims, and Type-R models.

Tuners and Modifiers

Through the years, the Honda Civic has won numerous awards including Car of the Year recognition from Road & Track, Motor Trend and Automobile magazines. It has also been recognized as a top tuner car, a category that describes vehicles that are fun to drive and modify, according to Popular Mechanics.

Mugen Motorworks, a wholly-owned Honda subsidiary, has long been at the forefront of tuning Honda engines including those that power the Civic. Civic fans are known for swapping out their original engines for higher-displacement Honda engines in a bid to compete with the Volkswagen GTI, Mitsubishi’s Lancer Evolution, the Scion tC, and other models.

More than four decades have passed since the Honda Civic took to America’s roadways. This model has grown and evolved through the years, but it hasn’t lost its status as having one of the best resale values of any car on the road.

Off-Road Prowess: GMC Sierra AT4

July 3, 2019 by admin 5 Comments

Updated December 7, 2020, to reflect diesel engine availability and performance.

Special upgrades including front tow hooks set the AT4 apart from most Sierra models.

GMC is GM’s “professional grade” brand, a tagline that suggests that carpenters, home builders, and landscapers are among its chief buyers. Although all three invest in pickup trucks and SUVs, GMC is much more than that: it is a brand prized by families and outdoorsmen as well.

Very recently, GM began seeking to offer some distinction between GMC and Chevrolet, the latter representing the lion’s share of the automaker’s sales, including pickups and utility vehicles. GMC still doesn’t have any models unique to the brand as it typically shares platforms with Chevrolet and to a lesser extent Buick and Cadillac. That said, we’re beginning to see some features exclusive to GMC rollout, including an available six-function “multipro” tailgate — more about that later.

The 2019 GMC Sierra launches this model’s fourth-generation line of pickup trucks. Interestingly, GMC still offers the third-generation model, now renamed the Sierra 1500 Limited. However, it is only available as a double cab truck with a standard box. Further, it comes in standard and SLE trims and is powered exclusively by a 5.3-liter V8 engine mated to a six-speed automatic transmission.

The Sierra crew cab consumes an entire parking space and then some.

Why is GMC still offering the previous-generation truck? To account for the transition from the old to the new model. In particular, it takes time to roll out a new vehicle, especially a full-size pickup truck with many different configurations.

The GMC comes in three distinct cab styles — regular, double, and crew. GMC launched the crew cab first, followed by the regular and double cabs. As of this writing, production has finally switched to the new model only. Still, you’ll find the 1500 Limited on dealer lots, perhaps until the end of the calendar year.

Besides the “trick” tailgate, GMC now offers a new AT4 trim. This model is GMC’s equivalent of the Silverado TrailBoss, equipped with standard four-wheel drive, a two-speed transfer case, a two-inch suspension lift, skid plates, and a locking rear differential. GMC says the AT4 line will spread to its other vehicles, supplying the brand with a second distinct sub-brand to market. The other sub-brand is, of course, Denali. Thus, the AT4 line reflects the brand’s off-road prowess, while the Denali line touts its luxury attributes.

Comfortable and supportive front bucket seats garnish the Sierra AT4.

The split-folding rear bench seat folds up and down.

A 2019 Sierra AT4 arrived in June, serving as my test model for one week. The focus of this review is on the AT4, although the following specifications supply an overview of the entire Sierra line.

All 2019 GMC Sierra AT4 models have a standard 5.3-liter V8 engine making 355 horsepower and 383 foot-pounds of torque. Power is routed to the wheels by means of an 8-speed automatic transmission. The AT4 comes with hill descent control, a traction select system and it rides on all-terrain tires. Design elements exclusive to this model include a machined-face, dark-tinted appearance to the wheels.

See Also — GM Diesel Pickup Fast Facts

Other AT4 features include Rancho off-road-tuned monotube shock absorbers, red vertical recovery hooks, and unique black chrome touches, and body-color grille surround. As for the interior, it has its own special design attributes, which is especially evident in the seat layout.

Now about that “trick” tailgate. It is an unusual feature, something you won’t find with any other pickup truck. Indeed, it is evident at first glance that something special is present with the cut-out design.

The way the tailgate works takes a bit of getting used to. Like any truck tailgate, it opens and closes conventionally. But unlike other units, this one has an inside panel that supplies all the difference. Here, you’ll find an inner gate that folds up to provide a vertical barrier for longer items.

You can also drop the gate for access to the box floor, which makes it easier to place items in or remove from the box. The tailgate also converts to a full-width step, an inner gate load stop, and to an inner gate work surface. The latter is especially helpful when working on a project, such as a laptop, or for assembling fishing gear.

I equate the MultiPro tailgate to a Swiss Army Knife. At first glance, the knife doesn’t seem unusual. Start pulling out the various features and you’ll find a blade, nail file, screwdriver, scissors, keyring, tweezers, and even a toothpick. In the same way, the upgraded GMC tailgate provides features you wouldn’t expect at first glance.

The multipro tailgate is easy to spot, even when not in use.

Pop open the inner tailgate and it is useful as a work surface.

Extended items, such as plywood, are held in place by the vertical stop.

A full-length step bumper is another feature of the multipro tailgate.

When you need to get a bit closer to the bed with the tailgate open.

What is the cost of the tailgate? Well, first of all, it isn’t available with the base, SLE and Elevation trims. And with the SLT and AT4 trims, it is standard equipment. You’ll have to opt for either the double or crew cabs too, as the regular cab is only available in base form. Thus, your starting price for a Sierra when equipped with the Multipro tailgate is about $45,000.

Our AT4 Crew Cab cost $66,445, which included options totaling $12,250. An off-road performance package ($4,940) added the 6.2-liter V8 engine, a 10-speed automatic transmission, along with special wheels and tires. An AT4 Premium Package ($3,100) included a power sliding rear window, navigation, a Bose audio system, wireless charging, and several driver-assist features, including lane change alert and side blind zone alert. The Technology Package ($1,875) added such features as a head-up display, rear camera mirror, and a digital driver’s information center. Other upgrades included such individual or bundled items as a power sunroof ($995), advanced driver-assist features ($745), and red quartz tint coat finish ($595).

Beyond the tailgate, the AT4 is no mere full-size pickup truck. We’ve already alluded to its off-road prowess and that’s something we tested frequently over the course of a week. With its standard four-wheel drive, the Sierra AT4 is ready for the road or terrain ahead. At most times you’ll likely operate in two-wheel drive, but keeping the dial set to “auto” for automatic 4 Hi is ideal wherever road conditions vary. Keep in mind, though, that this choice degrades efficiency and can gradually take its toll on the four-wheel-drive driveline.

The added height of the AT4 gives this truck a compelling edge in off-roading. You’ll enjoy improved approach, breakover, and departure angles, and find this truck ready for the toughest off-road conditions. We weren’t able to put it through the most rigorous paces as we did with the Jeep Wrangler, but we tackled enough tough terrain to know that this Sierra is up to the task.

The cavernous interior offers ample storage space too.

All Sierra models feature a double glove box.

Our only concern (as we have with any full-size truck) is the Sierra’s size — brush and grille guards. A bull bar with a skid plate may be best when conquering rocky terrain. These items are typically available through aftermarket sources. If you want deflectors, fender flares, and off-road lighting, you’ll find GMC has them listed under accessories.

The all-new Sierra in AT4 guise is a formidable entrant among big off-road pickup trucks. Not only is it an option to the Chevrolet Silverado Trailboss, but it should be compared to the Ram Rebel and Ford F-150 Raptor. If you’re needing something a bit smaller, yet with strong off-road capabilities, the GMC Canyon All Terrain is a logical choice.

2019 GMC Sierra

Model Line Specifications

- Seats three to six
- Engine No. 1: 4.3-liter V6 gas
- 285 horsepower @ 5,300 RPM
- 305 foot-pounds of torque @ 3,900 RPM
- 6-speed automatic transmission
- Engine No. 2: 2.7-liter turbo I4 gas
- 310 horsepower @ 5,600 RPM
- 348 foot-pounds of torque @ 1,500 RPM
- 8-speed automatic transmission
- Engine No. 3: 5.3-liter V8 gas
- 355 horsepower @ 5,600 RPM
- 383 foot-pounds of torque @ 4,100 RPM
- 8- or 10-speed automatic transmission
- Engine No. 4: 6.2-liter V8 gas
- 420 horsepower @ 5,600 RPM
- 460 foot-pounds of torque @ 4,100 RPM
- 10-speed automatic transmission
- Engine No. 5: 3.0-liter turbo I6 diesel
- 277 horsepower @ 3,750 RPM
- 460 foot-pounds of torque @ 1,500 RPM
- 10-speed automatic transmission
- Wheelbase (inches): 126.5 (regular); 147.4/5 (double); 147.4/5 or 157.0/1 (crew);
- Length (inches): 210.8 or 229.7 (length); 231.7 (double); 231.7 or 241.2 (crew)
- Width: 81.2 inches
- Height: 75.6 to 78.5 inches
- Passenger volume: NR
- Storage volume: 5-foot, 8-inch or 6-foot, 6-inch or 8-foot box
- Towing capacity: 9,800 to 12,200 pounds
- EPA: 16/23 mpg city/highway (5.3L V8 2WD)
- Fuel Type: Regular or Premium (6.2L) gasoline; diesel for 3.0L
- Fuel tank: 28.3 (regular); 24.0 (double, crew) gallons
- Curb weight: 4,531 to 5,015 pounds
- IIHS safety rating: Good, most categories; Marginal, Small overlap front: passenger-side; Poor, headlights
- Limited vehicle warranty: 3 years/36,000 miles
- Powertrain warranty: 5 years/60,000 miles
- Corrosion warranty: 6 years/100,000 miles
- Vehicle assembly: Fort Wayne, Indiana and Silao, Guanajuato MEXICO

Happy trails and other off-road adventures await you.

See Also — GMC Introduces Off-Road Sierra AT4 Line

The Life and Death of the Saturn Brand

July 1, 2019 by admin 4 Comments

Once billed as “a different kind of car company,” Saturn was originally a standalone car company, one wholly owned by General Motors. Unlike GM’s other automotive brands including Chevrolet, Oldsmobile, and Pontiac, Saturn was managed separately at the start, but eventually was brought into the GM matrix, then later dissolved.

Saturn SL2. (Public domain photo via Wikimedia).

Creating a New Brand

Faced with a seemingly unstoppable advance of cheap, higher quality vehicles from Japan, General Motors was looking for a way to counteract that push by developing a new line of small cars to take on Toyota, Honda, and Datsun (later, Nissan).

As early as 1982, GM management began planning the “Saturn” company, named for the rocket that carried astronauts to the moon. The following year, GM chairman Roger Smith announced his company’s intention publicly.

The Planning Stages

The first prototype Saturn vehicle was introduced in 1984, but it wasn’t until 1990 that a production model was made available. During the intervening years, GM formally established the Saturn Car Corporation and began working out a labor agreement with the UAW to gain concessions to make Saturn possible.

The UAW and GM began meeting in 1983 and by 1985 had reached a labor accord for the Saturn operation according to Southern Changes. In exchange for taking a 20 percent pay cut, Saturn workers were guaranteed profit-sharing and other income opportunities based on production and quality goals. Certain other workers’ rights, including seniority, work rules, grievance procedures, and traditional job descriptions were also modified or removed.

The Saturn Launch

In 1985, GM incorporated its Saturn company and purchased land in Spring Hill, Tenn., to build a manufacturing plant. Construction began in 1986, representing a $1.9 billion investment by GM. By 1988, the plant was completed, the first workers hired and by the following year, the first dealers were appointed.

Production began in July 1990, as sedan and coupe versions of the 1991 S-Series were produced. Two model years later a station wagon was added, giving this model line three body choices that would carry the company through its first decade of existence.

The S-Series won numerous awards, representing a line of compact cars powered by a 1.9-liter four-cylinder engine and paired with five-speed automatic or four-speed manual transmissions. Intellichoice, MotorWeek, Automobile Magazine, J.D. Power & Associates, and Motor Trend were among those showering accolades on the car. More than 2 million S-Series were produced before this vehicle was replaced by the Saturn Ion in 2003.

Photo copyright Wikimedia. 2009 Saturn Sky Redline Ruby Red Limited Edition photographed at Babylon, NY. This file is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 3.0 Unported license.

Other Saturn Products

It wasn’t until 2000 that a second Saturn product entered the line-up. The midsize L-Series was introduced, available in sedan and station wagon body styles. Unlike the S-Series, the L-Series was produced at a GM plant in Delaware, a model based on the Opel Vectra.

Saturn continued to expand its product line, adding the Vue crossover in 2002, the Relay minivan in 2005 and both the Outlook crossover and Sky roadster in 2007. By the time of the Relay’s release, GM abandoned offering unique models for Saturn, by rebadging existing GM products to expand Saturn’s product line. Along the way, the L-Series was replaced by the Aura and the Astra replaced the Ion.

Ending a Brand

The end of Saturn coincided with the fortunes of its parent, GM. With GM losing tens of billions of dollars and facing bankruptcy and extinction, then GM chairman Rick Wagoner testified before a Congressional banking committee in a bid to gain a government bailout. In his testimony, Wagoner explained that the company would concentrate on its four core brands: Cadillac, Buick, GMC, and Chevrolet while looking at shutting down or selling other brands. As for Saturn, Wagoner said that the company would “explore alternatives” for its youngest brand.

A late model Saturn VUE utility vehicle.
(Public domain photo via Wikimedia)

Following GM’s 2009 bankruptcy and restructuring, the automaker shopped Saturn in a bid to sell the brand. Race car icon, Roger Penske, tendered an offer to buy the company, but when a deal to have Nissan-Renault supply cars to Saturn collapsed, GM halted production on Oct. 1, 2009. The brand was officially discontinued on Oct. 31, 2010, ending GM’s experiment with its different kind of car company.

Saturn’s demise may be attributed by some to GM’s own financial problems. However, Saturn also competed against other GM brands, especially Chevrolet, setting itself on a collision course for its eventual closure.

See Also — The Brief Model Run of the Saturn Sky