Only GM (including Saab, Hummers, etc.) related News & Rumors are allowed in this thread.

Enjoy :)

Chevrolet Captiva to debuts at 2006 Geneva (Europe)

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With the all-new Captiva, its first diesel powered compact SUV, Chevrolet takes its European product offensive to a new level. Tailored to European roads and customer requirements, the vehicle will be available with a modern two-litre 150hp common-rail direct-injection diesel. Like the two available gasoline versions (2.4-liter four-cylinder and 3.2-liter V6), the turbodiesel offers dynamic driving performance. The Captiva will also be the first model in Chevrolet’s European range available with an electronic stability program (ESP). It debuts at the Geneva motor show (March 2 - 12, 2006) and will be available in showrooms across Europe starting in June.

“Chevrolet continues to grow at a remarkable pace in Europe”, said Wayne Brannon, new Executive Director, Chevrolet Europe. “Selling just over 240,000 cars in Europe in 2005, 26 percent more than in 2004, we closed last year with another sales record. With the Captiva giving us access to an additional and growing vehicle segment, and more new products coming to the market this year, and especially our new state-of-the-art diesel engines, we have the potential to continue our growth in a similar way.”

The Captiva offers expressive design and a spacious, convenient interior featuring high quality fabrics and materials. The new compact SUV measures 4,639/1,849/1,726 mm (length/width/height) and with a wheelbase of 2,707 mm. It will be available with seven or five seats respectively.

Customers will also have the choice between front-wheel and four-wheel-drive variants. The latter variant features an-active-on demand, four-wheel-drive-system. As driving conditions demand, the rear axle is instantly employed via an electronically controlled electro-magnetic coupling to give maximum traction. The system also seamlessly interacts with the ESP and ABS systems, enhancing driver control of the vehicle and safety margins. The ESP itself has additional functions like HBA (Hydraulic Brake Assist), HDC (Hill Descent Control) and ARP (Anti-Rollover Protection).

Initially, three transversally mounted engines will be available for the Captiva. They include the brand new, state-of-the-art common rail diesel engine jointly developed by GM Daewoo Auto&Technology Company, GM Powertrain and VM Motori. In its first application, the 16 valve unit offers 150 hp at 4,000 rpm and maximum torque of 310 Nm at 2000 rpm.. In the ECE mix, fuel consumption is 8.1 L per 100 km. It is the first application of a family of diesel powertrains that will become available in other Chevrolet products in Europe, beginning in 2006.

The base engine is a 2.4 litre in-line DOHC four cylinder, delivering 142 hp at 5,200 rpm and a torque maximum of 220 Nm at 4,000 rpm. The Captiva 2.4 average fuel consumption is 10.8 L per 100 km. The top-of-the line 3.2 litre V6 engine produces 225 hp at 6,000 rpm, maximum torque is 302 Nm at 3500 rpm.

Suspension layout consists of a McPherson strut configuration in front and an independent four link design in the rear. Ventilated disc brakes are standard on all four wheels. Four cylinder versions come standard with 215/70 R 16 tyres on 6.5J x 16 inch wheels, while the V6 rolls on 235/60 R 17 tyres on 7.0J x 17 inch wheels.

Chevrolet is the leading global brand of General Motors with over 4 million vehicles sold in over 120 countries. Chevrolet has been the market leader in Latin America for five consecutive years and in North America, Chevrolet became the number one selling brand in 2005 – for the first time since 1986 with a total of 2.67 million vehicles sold.


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http://www.autoweek.nl/images/800/16027.jpg

Me thinks very x3'ish

That is a geat looking SUV... for an SUV, but I believe they mentioned in another news release that it wasn't coming to the US (which would be a really dumb move). Between thsi Chevy, the Saturn and Buick versions, GM has some great looking cross-over SUVs in the works... I would go so far as to say they will be the best looking SUVs on the market.

2007 Chevy Tahoe review:
http://www.edmunds.com/insideline/do/Drives/FullTests/articleId=108789

More thoughts on the Camaro
In the next six months, GM will select the vehicles it plans to build as part of a new rear-wheel-drive lineup set for 2008 or 2009. Possible candidates include the Chevrolet Camaro, Pontiac GTO, Buick Velite, and Chevy Impala. “We have a big plan for rear-wheel drive,” says Gene Stefanyshyn, vehicle line executive for what GM now calls its “global RWD architecture.” GM is looking to fill the gap between its small RWD roadsters, from Saturn and Pontiac, and high-end luxury vehicles, from Cadillac. If produced, the Camaro would feature a standard V6 engine and one or two V8s, GM’s Bob Lutz says. It would be priced competitively with the Mustang.

Holden's get new 6.0l V.8's for 2006 Vehicles (Australia)


More Go For Holden's Performance Heroes

The most powerful standard engine ever offered by Holden will be installed in all 2006 model year Holden V8 vehicles.

A new 6.0-litre alloy engine will deliver 260kW of peak power at 5600rpm and 510Nm of peak torque at 4400rpm across all V8 variants in the Holden range.

Torque delivery is significantly increased at lower revs offering improved acceleration, low speed engine response and improved ease of towing than the previous 5.7-litre engine.

Codenamed L76, the new engine is a member of GM’s fourth generation small block V8 family. The 2006 Holden range is the first application of L76 within General Motors around the world.

The L76 will be available in SV8, SS, Calais and Berlina sedans, Statesman and Caprice prestige vehicles, Berlina wagon, Ute SS, Crewman SS and Crewman Cross8. This offers power increases in all new vehicles compared with the 2005 variants.

Commodore SS sedan and SS Ute receive front and rear performance brakes standard whilst SS Crewman adopts performance front brakes. The f ront rotor is 320mm x 32mm vented compared with 296mm x 28mm vented on the previous standard system. The rear rotor is 286mm x 18mm vented compared with 286mm x 16mm solid.

The extra performance will be managed with better breathing sports exhaust and significant improvements to automatic transmission characteristics. From an environmental perspective, all new variants meet strict ADR79/01 emission regulations which came into effect on 1 January 2006 .

GM Holden Chairman and Managing Director, Denny Mooney, said the new powertrain continued Holden’s evolution as the leader in affordable V8 performance. He said low end torque and responsiveness took the V8 models to a new level which delivered performance and economy to owners.

“The extra power is mainly noticeable where it’s most useable down low in the rev cycle,” Mr Mooney said.

“We’ve heard what our customers have been saying about useable torque and the new L76 engine delivers that well. The cars deliver excellent power-to-weight ratio and we’ve also managed to retain the impressive fuel economy which the Holden V8s can deliver.”

Details of the L76 engine, which will be manufactured in Mexico , were announced in North America in late 2005. The powertrain will also be installed in 2007 model year sports utility vehicles for the US market.

The L76 incorporates several significant changes to improve performance compared with the 5.7L LS1 third generation engine it replaces as the heartbeat of Holden’s V8 fleet.

Key changes include -

All-new aluminium cylinder block casting
Cylinder bores measuring 101.6 mm in diameter, combined with stroke of 92.0 mm
Revised high-flow cylinder heads deliver the airflow necessary to complement the engine’s larger displacement
55mm inlet valve and 40.4mm exhaust valve diameter
Flat-top piston design
Compression ratio raised to 10.4:1 from 10.1:1
More efficient ignition coils require less energy to provide a comparable spark
Larger, 90-mm single-blade throttle body
Revised and more powerful engine controller incorporates electronic throttle control
External knock sensors
Significant testing and calibration development requirements mean Holden has not initiated cylinder deactivation technology.

The V8s will be mated to the reliable 4L65-E four-speed automatic transmission which has been revised with an input shaft speed sensor . The speed sensor noticeably improves shift quality and consistency under varied conditions, particularly low throttle.

The Tremec T56 six-speed manual transmission has a revised clutch plate and pressure plate for transmission of increased engine torque.

Start of production of MY06 variants starts in February at the Elizabeth , South Australia facility following $35 million of upgrade works during the Christmas and New Year break. More than $400 million has been spent on the SA manufacturing operations in the past three years.

Model year 2006 changes – V8 variants

SS sedan VZ Monaro CV8 alloy wheels (including spare) – standard
Performance brakes front and rear – standard
Performance exhaust – standard
Leather seats – standard
Silver Grey accent stitching on steering wheel, gear knob and handbrake handle on all interior combinations
Rec. retail price $51,790 excluding government and dealer charges

Ute SS Performance brakes front and rear – standard
Performance exhaust – standard
Devil Yellow colour new to Ute
Rec. retail price $41,490 excluding government and dealer charges

Crewman SS SS Crewman adopts performance front brakes
Performance exhaust – standard
Rec. price $47,690 excluding government and dealer charges



For further pricing details visit: http://media.gm.com/aus/holden/en/product_services/pricing.html#commodore

Gen 4 L76 6.0L engine – key data

Location Front Longitudinal
Type 90 Deg. OHV V8
Capacity (cm3) 5967
Bore x Stroke (mm) 101.6 x 92.0
Compression Ratio 10.4:1
Cylinders 8
Firing Order 1-8-7-2-6-5-4-3
Cylinder Block Cast Aluminium with cast in place Iron bore liners
Bore Spacing C/L to C/L (mm) 111.76
Crankshaft Cast nodular Iron
Pistons Cast Aluminium Alloy
Connecting Rod Forged Powdered Metal
Cylinder Head Cast Aluminium
Valvetrain Single in block camshaft; hydraulic roller lifters; push rods; roller rockers; two over head valves per cylinder

Gen 4 L76 6.0L engine – fuel economy

Fuel economy (ADR081/01)
Gen 4 V8

Berlina sedan
14.0 (AT)

Berlina wagon
14.0 (AT)

Calais
14.0 (AT)

SV8
14.0 (AT) 14.6 (MT)

SS
14.0 (AT) 14.6 (MT)

Ute SS
14.0 (AT) 14.6 (MT)

Crewman SS
15.3 (AT) 14.8 (MT)

Crewman Cross 8
15.6 (AT)

Statesman
14.0 (AT)

Caprice
14.3 (AT)



Pics of "2006 Holden VZ SS Commodore 6.0"

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Hey all. Here is a Saab dealership release that was received by the general sales manager at my nearby dealership on Sept. 9, 2005, and then Emailed by him to me:

2006 Model Year 9-2X Pricing


In an effort to assist you in managing your inventory, the following is a summary of the 2006 9-2X packaging, pricing and distribution strategy:

NEW FOR 2006!
q Linear name changed to 9-2X 2.5i to be consistent with other model nomenclatures. Aero model name remains the same.
q Packaging and equipment enhancements include:
o 9-2X 2.5i horsepower increases to 173hp (+8hp)
o 9-2X Aero turbocharged engine increases from 2.0 litre to 2.5 litre resulting in +3hp (230hp) and +18 lbs/ft low end torque
o All-season tires added to 17" alloy wheel option on Aero model
o Eliminated option constraint of Aero model with Moonroof and 17" wheels
o Moonroof is now a free-flow option on both models ($1200 MSRP)
o Revised Aero Sport Package combining 17" alloy wheels, all-season tires, and Xenon headlamps ($1450 MSRP)
o Simplified Leather Package replaces Premium Package on both models ($1095 MSRP)
o Simplified Aero exterior color combinations by offering 3 colors: Midnight Black Metallic, Arctic Silver Metallic, and Brilliant Red
q Simplified package combinations by eliminating Xenon headlamps, 6-Disc CD Changer, and Front Foglamps from 2.5i model

PRICING
We are pleased to announce that 2006 model year starting MSRPs for the 9-2X remain unchanged even with the increase in engine performance! In addition, we have re-packaged popularly-equipped models in an effort to offer you more flexibility to achieve a competitive price point. The example below compares the 2006 popularly equipped models versus 2005:

MSRP
q 2005 9-2X Linear with Leather and Automatic Transmission = $26,735
q 2006 9-2X 2.5i with Leather and Automatic Transmission = $25,333
Value Position = ($1,400)

q 2005 9-2X Aero with Leather, Moonroof, and 17" Wheels = $31,795
q 2006 9-2X Aero with Leather, Moonroof, and 17" Wheels = $30,695
Value Position = ($1,100)

Please note, the 2006 model year destination charge will now be consistent with other Saab vehicles at $720. Pricing will be announced to the public in September 2005.

DISTRIBUTION
Production for the 2006 Model Year will begin in October 2005. Contingent on your allocation, vehicles are planned to arrive at your dealership in the January timeframe. Your 9-2X allocation will be derived from your 12 month sales history of 9-2X.


---

I Emailed the same manager a few weeks ago, and the first couple/few models had just arrived. I had him check the brakes, and it doesn't seem that the Aero will be copying the WRX/Limited, using the 4-pot front and 2-pot rear (iron/aluminum, respectively) calipers from the former JDM/EDM STi models. :(

That's all I know. Anyone seen or driven one yet? I was going to go for a spin yesterday, but by the time I had time to go, it was late in the day and I didn't want to hit rush hour traffic on the way home.

=S2=
(Note: Also posted here (http://forums.nasioc.com/forums/showthread.php?t=921710) but it was locked, since this should go with GM...)

$30k for a WRX?!? :eek: No thanks.

**sigh**

Not familiar with how it worked, huh?

The Aero (WRX motor) in 2005 had the 2005 WRX engine as well (EJ20). It had a similar MSRP as this year's, about $30k. Saab however offered some rebates, a few months into the sale of the car, as it wasn't selling well.

That brought it down to just about the WRX's ~$24K price range, sometimes a bit lower.

Then, later on, GM had their Employee Pricing, which in combination with the rebates, made for about a $19K Aero model.

So, it's a WRX... for $5K or so **less**.... with a 4-year warranty instead of 3-year, and arguably better service from a near-luxury brand like Saab.

The down side is finding parts in a few years after the car's discontinued. Or being hated by Saabists. Or just owning a very rare, oddball car, if that sort of thing bugs you.

It does NOT bug me. Wish I could buy one. There's fewer color choices for the Aero for 2006 (only silver, black and red I think), but Saab did split up the former option packages. So now you don't have to get some things if you don't want them, like the sunroof maybe. Saab **finally** put the '06 on their webpage recently: www.saabusa.com

Too bad they don't have the good brakes (I think), but at least there's an EJ255 in there now. That more than compensates. Extra torque in a wagon isn't a bad thing.

=S2=

The redesigned 2006 Saturn Vue Red Line production vehicle combines bold new styling and proven performance with impressive fuel economy. The new look starts with a unique front end appearance inspired by the highly acclaimed 2007 Saturn Sky roadster and the Saturn Aura sedan concept.

The vehicle’s chrome bar and integrated jeweled Saturn badge are hallmarks of the brand’s new design direction. The distinctive grille is matched with a new fascia and body-color 360-degree ground effects for a sleek, streamlined look. Interior features include ebony leather-appointed seats with suede fabric inserts; ebony carpet and safety belts; six-way power driver seat adjuster and a unique instrument cluster faceplate and metallic foot pedals.

Vehicle Highlights

3.5L 250-horsepower V-6 engine
V-6 front-wheel drive delivers a class-leading 28 mpg on the highway and has an ultra-low emission vehicle (ULEV) rating
Ambient lower lighting that illuminates the front and rear footwell areas in either a Cool Blue or Warm Amber hue
Redesigned center stack, new center storage console, steering wheel with audio controls and a new family of upgraded radios
Stiffened suspension is lowered by more than one inch (26 mm)
Aggressively styled 18-inch aluminum wheels with P245/50R18 performance tires for sportier handling and a "slammed" appearance
Electric power steering is calibrated for a sporty feel
Available in front- and all-wheel drive

The redesigned 2006 Saturn Vue Red Line production vehicle combines bold new styling and proven performance with impressive fuel economy. The new look starts with a unique front end appearance inspired by the highly acclaimed 2007 Saturn Sky roadster and the Saturn Aura sedan concept.

The vehicle’s chrome bar and integrated jeweled Saturn badge are hallmarks of the brand’s new design direction. The distinctive grille is matched with a new fascia and body-color 360-degree ground effects for a sleek, streamlined look. Interior features include ebony leather-appointed seats with suede fabric inserts; ebony carpet and safety belts; six-way power driver seat adjuster and a unique instrument cluster faceplate and metallic foot pedals.

Vehicle Highlights

3.5L 250-horsepower V-6 engine
V-6 front-wheel drive delivers a class-leading 28 mpg on the highway and has an ultra-low emission vehicle (ULEV) rating
Ambient lower lighting that illuminates the front and rear footwell areas in either a Cool Blue or Warm Amber hue
Redesigned center stack, new center storage console, steering wheel with audio controls and a new family of upgraded radios
Stiffened suspension is lowered by more than one inch (26 mm)
Aggressively styled 18-inch aluminum wheels with P245/50R18 performance tires for sportier handling and a "slammed" appearance
Electric power steering is calibrated for a sporty feel
Available in front- and all-wheel drive

http://www.cheersandgears.com/2005sema/sema_vue_2.jpg

http://www.cheersandgears.com/2005sema/sema_vue_1.jpg

**sigh**

Not familiar with how it worked, huh?

The Aero (WRX motor) in 2005 had the 2005 WRX engine as well (EJ20). It had a similar MSRP as this year's, about $30k. Saab however offered some rebates, a few months into the sale of the car, as it wasn't selling well.

That brought it down to just about the WRX's ~$24K price range, sometimes a bit lower.

Then, later on, GM had their Employee Pricing, which in combination with the rebates, made for about a $19K Aero model.

I am familiar with GM's Family Discount dealie, but they said that they definitly will not doing that again, and they dropped prices on all their cars a couple of weeks ago (which I am not assuming was included with the prices listed), so having said that, this SAABaru will most definitly be a good deal more expensive than the WRX now. And stuff like leather and a froo-froo name aren't enough to me to make it about $5000 more expensive.

While the longer warantee is a cool thing, I still think that a Subaru dealer - that has decades of experience with turboed flat-4s and AWD will probalby be more knowledgable with the car than any SAAB dealership.

You have valid points but I don't agree with this


While the longer warantee is a cool thing, I still think that a Subaru dealer - that has decades of experience with turboed flat-4s and AWD will probalby be more knowledgable with the car than any SAAB dealership.

On the AWD system, yes... turbo 4's no! Subaru turbos only started coming with WRX's in MY02. Since the one's that came with the older Legacies were not as performance oriented as the present ones; and in addition, they weren't that popular so not many techs were educated, so I personally don't even include it as part of the decade ;)

GM's Saab brand lost more than $300 Million in 2005


FRANKFURT (Reuters) - General Motors Corp's premium brand Saab lost more than $300 million in 2005, a German newspaper reported on Tuesday, heaping pressure on GM given calls from investor Tracinda to sell Saab and other loss-making units.

The Handelsblatt daily cited company sources saying Saab's loss widened from nearly $200 million in 2004, but a GM (GM.N: Quote) Europe spokesman said the company does not break out earnings for individual brands and would not comment further on earnings before its quarterly report on January 26.

The spokesman said Saab had its best ever fourth-quarter sales at the close of last year and its highest annual sales in Europe in 2005.

"Having its best year ever from a volume standpoint, having the 9.3 Sport Combi (estate car) for a full year, having the new 9.5 (sedan) and the 20th anniversary of convertibles for the 9.3 in 2006 should bode well for the Saab brand and we expect that we will continue to gain momentum," the spokesman said.

"There is no question that the company has got a commitment to Saab," he added, citing its progress in cutting costs and in launching a new model offensive at the brand.

GM Europe President Carl-Peter Forster said at the Detroit car show last week that if orders continued at the pace of late last year, Saab could boost volume by between 10,000 and 15,000 units. It sold 82,100 in Europe plus more than 38,000 in the United States in 2005.

"I think (for) Saab there is potential for a step up in the cycle of performance," Forster said.

GM Europe is in the process of cutting its workforce by around one fifth in a drive to restore profits. It last made an annual profit in Europe in 1999.

In a separate interview, Forster said he wants productivity at core brand Opel to rise by 3-5 percent a year.

"That means 3 to 5 percent more cars with the same number of workers or 3 to 5 percent fewer workers for the same car production," he told German magazine Auto Motor und Sport.

When its main Ruesselsheim plant in Germany is properly utilized, it will be able to turn out mid-sized cars in 19-20 hours versus 26 hours now for an Opel Vectra, he said.

You have valid points but I don't agree with this



On the AWD system, yes... turbo 4's no! Subaru turbos only started coming with WRX's in MY02. Since the one's that came with the older Legacies were not as performance oriented as the present ones; and in addition, they weren't that popular so not many techs were educated, so I personally don't even include it as part of the decade ;)

Well, in the US anyway. But you knew this. :)

HazDaz,

I don't disagree. IF the prices don't stoop again (we'll know by summer, just like last year), then no it won't be worth it.

But honestly, a lot of Subaru dealers I don't trust as far as I can throw them. I've heard much better things about Saab dealers. That's subjective too, of course, but maybe there's power in (smaller) numbers.

Oh, and as a leather user, don't forget that the '06 Limited models now have "fruu fruu" leather. ;)
Plus, it wears much longer and is far easier to care for. Arguably "not as grippy,"
but then again, the Saab uses the '02-'03 WRX seats, which are more supportive than the '04+ ones anyhow.

=S2=

HUMMER Establishes First Certified Pre-Owned Vehicle Program

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Dealers look to build off the success of GM's Certified Pre-Owned Program

DETROIT- For the first time in HUMMER’s history, buyers will have the opportunity to purchase HUMMER Certified Pre-Owned vehicles, the new program will offer the same premium commitment to quality and service as a new vehicle but with a lower price tag.

The Certified Pre-Owned program, a HUMMER first, was initiated as a result of consistent sales success with the GM Certified brand and demand for previously owned HUMMER vehicles. These vehicles will be available in dealer showrooms this month and will serve as an extension to the HUMMER brand and current lineup.

For a previously owned HUMMER to become a Certified Pre-Owned Vehicle it is tested to meet HUMMER’s stringent standards and undergoes a rigorous 100+ point inspection. In addition, vehicles must be less than 48 months old, driven fewer than 50,000 miles (2006 models) with no serious accidents or body repairs (costs exceeding one-quarter of the automobile’s market value at the time of repair).

“Certified Pre-Owned HUMMER vehicles offer buyers the opportunity to get all the iconic styling and off-road prowess of a HUMMER at a price that better fits their budget,” said Susan Docherty, HUMMER general manager. “These vehicles provide consumers with the confidence of a new vehicle with the affordability of one previously owned.”

Other Highlights of the HUMMER Certified Pre-Owned Vehicle program include the HUMMER New Vehicle Bumper-to-Bumper Limited Warranty, extended from 4 years/50,000 miles (2006 models) or 3 years/36,000 miles (2005 and prior models), (whichever comes first) to 6 years/100,000 miles (whichever comes first) with no reduction in coverage – HUMMER Owner Privileges still apply (Trip Interruption Protection, No-charge Emergency Road Service and 24-Hour Customer Assistance Hotline).

The GM Certified brand established a new all-time industry quarterly sales record for the certified pre-owned category with 2005 third-quarter sales of 122,131 units. The brand continues to out-pace competitors each quarter solidifying its place as the industry’s top selling manufacturer-certified used brand.

About GM Certified Used Vehicles GM Certified Used Vehicles, the number-one selling manufacturer-certified brand*, are high quality, reconditioned vehicles, available at participating Buick, Chevrolet, Oldsmobile, HUMMER, Pontiac and GMC dealers. All models are six years old or newer, have 60,000 miles or less, are reconditioned to stringent GM Certified Used Vehicles standards and must undergo a rigorous 110-plus-point inspection and reconditioning process. All GM Certified Used Vehicles are supported by a three-month/3,000-mile comprehensive limited warranty, a three-day/150-mile customer satisfaction guarantee, and 24-hour roadside assistance during the term of the warranty. For more information about GM Certified Used Vehicles, visit www.gmcertified.com, which features complete vehicle listings.

NEW Opel GT @ 2006 Geneva Show

Teaser Pic:

http://www.autoweek.nl/images/800/16071.jpg

NEW Opel GT @ 2006 Geneva Show

Teaser Pic:

http://www.autoweek.nl/images/800/16071.jpg

So it's mostly unchanged from the Saturn Sky, then?

So it's mostly unchanged from the Saturn Sky, then?
Well Opel and Saturn are suppiosed to be essentially the same brands now since each are on opposite sides of the Atlantic. Smart move by GM since it saves them money, yet both brands seem to have some sweet looking cars coming out.

Actually, I think the new GT may be offer a Coupe..not just a convert.

GM's Lansing Craft Centre to close in March (2006 Last Yr for Chevy SSR?)

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GM's Lansing Craft Centre to close in MarchAssociated PressLANSING, Mich. - The plant that builds the Chevrolet SSR sport truck will be shut down for good on or around March 17, General Motors Corp. says.

The move will idle 430 GM workers and put 181 workers at a local car parts supplier out of work.

GM had announced in November that it would close the Lansing Craft Centre along with eight other North American assembly, stamping and powertrain facilities by 2008 as part of an effort to return the company to profitability.
The Craft Centre had been expected to stay open until this summer, but lack of demand for the SSR moved the closing date to March.

"It is simply based on current and projected sales," GM spokeswoman Linda Ellis told the Lansing State Journal for a story Friday.

Last month, GM sold 574 SSRs, down 48.3 percent from December 2004. For the year, GM sold 8,107 SSRs, down 16 percent from 2004.

Craft Centre workers currently are off work through Feb. 13. Once they return, they're expected to build SSRs until the plant closes.

http://www.mts.net/~braeden5/transamconceptSE-vi.jpg

Camaro concept photoshopped as a firebird

Once this comes out, there will be a Smokey & the Bandit remake.

^^ Fire Chicken!

Anyways, that doesn't look too bad, but any next-gen Pontiac musclecar should look like this concept car from a few years ago. Loved it then, still love it now.

http://www.carword.com/special/gto/1999PontiacConceptGTO-1.jpg

Cool, but unrealistic. Still, it really sucks that they didn't at least retro-ize the face of the Holden Monaro before they slapped a GTO badge on it, so I see where you're coming from.

The new Camaro concept shots are somewhat promising though.

Not every release of a historic badge has to be retro. Especially when the badge had been dead for so long.

Granted, I think they should changed it more then they did from the manaro, had they put the right motor in the GTO the first year, and maybe gave it a slightly more aggressive stance on the road as opposed to the grown up grand am look, they probably would have gotten a lot more praise.

Additional Camaro information
via leftlanenews
The consensus in the automotive press recently has been that the Chevrolet Camaro concept won’t make it to production until 2009, leaving many Chevy fans disappointed. However, GM’s Vice president of global design, Ed Welburn, hinted that it might not take that long. “The Camaro isn’t a typical car,” he said, speaking at the Automotive News World Congress. “I think we could move very quickly. It is a strong design.” GM sources told Auto News that the car will likely be engineered by GM’s Holden subsidiary, and, like the Buick Enclave, the production version will be almost identical to the concept. Also like the Enclave, the interior will probably be simplified somewhat. As previously reported, it’s likely the production model would be offered with a choice of V6 and V8 engines. The Camaro Concept is powered by a 400 horsepower Corvette engine. GM’s Bob Lutz recently hinted that the company could even offer a model with the Z06 ‘Vette’s engine if demand was sufficient.

Oh boy, the Camaro 427 (7.0L) rides again!!! :)
Heck, bring back the Yenko and Baldwin-Motion names while they are at it.

If the new Camaro doesn't come out until '09 it will give Ford plenty of time to do a face/performance lift on the Mustang to steal some of the Camaro's thunder. Maybe something like the Mach 1 edtion.

GM needs the Camaro sooner not later, so my guess is that they are going to really push it through as soon as possible... probably get here in '08 as an '09 model - we are in 2006 already, so it is not that far away..

Chevy needs to trump the Mustang by being lightweight and feature displacement on demand for decent mileage without affecting performance.

Chevy needs to trump the Mustang by being lightweight and feature displacement on demand for decent mileage without affecting performance.

a nice IRS would help too, but yeah, the more advanced the engine tech the better.

Pontiac G6 "Hard Top" Convertible to be under $29K

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Pontiac G6 Starts 2006 With Momentum, New Model

Sub-$29K Pricing Set for G6 Convertible


DETROIT – After closing out 2005 with brisker sales than the rest of the mid-size car segment, the Pontiac G6 family of vehicles is expected to continue its growth in the new year with a game-changing new entry - a G6 retractable hardtop convertible. With GM’s recently announced pricing strategies, the new G6 convertible will be offered at a price point far below vehicles with comparable features.

The addition of a coupe and two new engine options allowed the G6 to move from the 25 th to the 11 th best selling car in North America in 2005. Fourth quarter G6 sales were up 137 percent compared to 2004.

“The growth of the G6 continues to buck industry trends for mid-size cars and sets the pace for Pontiac as our top-selling vehicle,” says Mark-Hans Richer, Pontiac marketing director. “With overall mid-size car sales down in the second half of 2005, the G6 actually increased sales and we expect to continue that trend into 2006.”

And those who purchased a G6 seem very satisfied with their car. In three separate surveys of new car owners, the G6 came out on top in its segment. Following up on G6’s Strategic Vision “Total Quality Award,” the company’s latest survey gave G6 the highest “Customer Delight” score in the mid-size car segment, besting many top selling imports. A similar result was also reached by J.D. Power and Associates, which awarded the G6 their Most Appealing Entry Mid-Size Car honor in the 2005 Automotive Performance, Execution, and Layout (APEAL) study.

This spring, the G6 family will be complete with the addition of the G6 retractable hardtop convertible, the first vehicle to offer this feature in the mid-size car segment. In addition to having the largest retractable hardtop on any four-passenger coupe, the G6 convertible will carry a manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) of $28,490 (including destination charges), making it the first retractable hardtop available in North America for under $29,000.

“The G6 has been a great cornerstone of the entire Pontiac renaissance, blending modern styling and crisp performance with a great value proposition,” said Richer. “The G6 convertible takes that winning formula and adds the all-season versatility and security of a retractable hardtop, a feature never before available in this price range.”


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The Camaro That Almost Wasn't

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If you want to get a good look at the Chevrolet Camaro concept car, you’d better get down to Detroit’s Cobo Hall pretty early — or stick with the images on TheCarConnection.com. The lines form early and last long. There’s no question that the Chevy show car is the top draw at this year’s North American International Auto Show. But it almost didn’t get there, at least not in the form we’ve seen.

As TCC previously reported, an early attempt to revive the Camaro nameplate in time for the January 2005 Detroit show was scuttled by General Motors CEO Rick Wagoner, who felt it was simply too retro. Wagoner sent design chief Ed Welburn and his team back to their digital drawing boards, and “within about three weeks, maybe four,” recalls Welburn, they had something serious going. Soon, the sketches were transfered to a lifesize clay model and rolled out onto the well-guarded patio behind the GM Design Center, in Warren, MI. “When I walked out onto the patio and saw it, it was obvious it was a Camaro,” Welburn, himself a Camaro collector, tells TheCarConnection. But he still wasn’t satisfied. “I liked it, but I wanted them to push it farther.”

At that point, the decision was made to bring in a second studio, a top-secret facility located well away from the main design center, and known by the cryptic codename, Studio X. Where the first studio’s work bore a strong resemblance to the relatively tame ‘68 Camaro, Studio X came up with an alternative that, according to Welburn, “had a lot of flare,” more like the iconic ‘69. The photo here gives a look at the two versions. Or, if you prefer, three, as the Studio X clay model, on the right, features two optional faces. And in it, you’ll get a clue to what happened next.

Digital design is a wonderful thing. The main design worked better, overall, than the Studio X prototype, which seemed a little two edgy, a bit too much like the Cadillac XLR. But it had some intriguing details lacking from the first design. Ultimately, the two competing teams were able to borrow some of each other’s ideas. One of the Studio X grilles was melded onto the main design team’s overall shape, and by mid-2005, Welburn and his bosses, CEO Wagoner and car czar Bob Lutz, were ready to sign off on the show car that debuted to so much acclaim early this month. Along with the running prototype on display in Detroit, by the way, a second version, with no running gear, was milled, painted, and ultimately shipped to the West Coast, for a belated presence at the Los Angeles Auto Show.

Now, the big question: will they build it? “It’s just a concept,” Welburn repeats, open like a mantra. But after he takes a breath, he admits, “We all feel very connected with that car.” Though he can’t confirm production plans, he does tell TheCarConnection, “We do need to move very quickly” towards making a go/no-go decision. Considering the stir Camaro is creating, we’re betting approval will come within the next several months, with production likely to begin within as little as 18 months. And obviously, we’ll report the details along the way.

Cadillac Announces Pricing For The All-New 2007 Escalade

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Cadillac Announces Pricing For The All-New 2007 Escalade

Detroit- Cadillac announced today that pricing for the all-new 2007 Escalade, scheduled to hit dealerships in February, will start at $57,280 manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) including destination charges for the all-wheel drive variant available at launch. This price for the 2007 Escalade represents a carry-over entry price relative to the outgoing 2006 Escalade while the vehicle is all-new inside and out. The 2007 Escalade provides several new features as standard equipment including; a power liftgate, remote starting, side-curtain airbags, Bose 5.1 Surround audio system and others adding thousands of dollars to the content value of the all-new Escalade.

“Offering our more dramatically styled, greatly refined and higher performance all-new Escalade at a starting price equal to the current generation Escalade should certainly attract luxury consumers’ attention and help Cadillac continue to dominate the large luxury utility segment,” said Jim Taylor, Cadillac general manager. “The new 2007 Escalade boldly begins the next phase of Cadillac’s renaissance.”

The all-new 2007 Escalade is thoroughly upgraded from its predecessor with a new chassis, powertrain, safety systems and a distinctive, refined, luxury car-like interior. These integrated systems deliver the most powerful and most efficient luxury SUV in the segment, led by a new 6.2L all-aluminum V-8 engine with variable valve timing technology delivering 403 horsepower (301 kw) and 417 lb-ft of torque.

2007 Cadillac Escalade vehicle highlights include:

All-new distinctive exterior design

All-new, Escalade exclusive, spacious interior with superior refinement

A new 403 horsepower 6.2L all-aluminum small-block V-8 with VVT providing improved fuel efficiency

Efficient six-speed automatic transmission with Drive Shift Control

Stronger frame chassis with responsive coil-over-shock front suspension and rack-and-pinion steering for the best ride and handling in the segment

Standard roof-mounted head curtain side air bags and StabiliTrak stability control system with new rollover mitigation technology

Bose 5.1 Digital Surround audio system, including available navigation radio with touch-screen control

A myriad of luxury features available including factory installed 22" chrome wheels, climate controlled front seats, power fold and tumble 2nd row seats, remote start, power articulating running boards, power liftgate and IntelliBeam headlamps

Enhanced four-wheel disc brake system

Improved fuel economy

Cadillac is a division of General Motors (NYSE: GM). General Motors, the world's largest vehicle manufacturer, designs, builds and markets cars and trucks worldwide, and has been the global automotive sales leader since 1931. Cadillac products include the CTS sport sedan, SRX luxury utility,

STS performance luxury sedan, DTS large luxury sedan, XLR luxury roadster, Escalade full-size SUVs (Escalade, Escalade ESV and Escalade EXT) and the high-performance V-Series (CTS-V, STS-V, XLR-V) three cars that go 0-60 in under 5 seconds.