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Motor Authority - blog Category: GMC

  • GMC adds luxury-spec Denali to Yukon Hybrid line

    GMC adds luxury-spec Denali to Yukon Hybrid line July 9th, 2009 ByRalph Hanson Ralph Hanson, Author, July 9th, 2009 Ralph Hanson 0 Comments

    GMC adds luxury-spec Denali to Yukon Hybrid line The GMC Yukon Hybrid broke ground with the world's first production 2-Mode full hybrid propulsion system back in 2008, which on the 2WD model offers 21 mpg in city driving – a 50% improvement over non-hybrid models. The lineup now includes the feature-packed Yukon Denali Hybrid, which infuses a new level of luxury into the efficient utility vehicle.

    Along with exceptional fuel economy, the Yukon Hybrid and Yukon Denali Hybrid deliver full-size capability – up to 6,200 pounds (2,812 kg) of towing capacity (2WD) and standard eight-passenger seating capacity.

    Vehicles like the Yukon Denali are ideal for a hybrid application... The GMC Yukon Hybrid broke ground with the world's first production 2-Mode full hybrid propulsion system back in 2008, which on the 2WD model offers 21 mpg in city driving – a 50% improvement over non-hybrid models. The lineup now includes the feature-packed Yukon Denali Hybrid, which infuses a new level of luxury into the efficient utility vehicle. Along with exceptional fuel economy, the Yukon Hybrid and Yukon Denali Hybrid deliver full-size capability – up to 6,200 pounds (2,812 kg) of towing capacity (2WD) and standard eight-passenger seating capacity. Vehicles like the Yukon Denali are ideal for a hybrid application because of the greater fuel savings compared to smaller petrol-electric models like the Prius and Insight. This will be a crucial factor in showrooms, as fuel economy is the most important consideration for roughly 80% of Yukon Denali buyers. Power comes from GM’s familiar Two-Mode hybrid system, which combines two lightweight electric motors packaged in the transmission, as well as regenerative brakes and electrically-powered steering and air-conditioning systems. The Yukon Denali Hybrid also comes with GM’s MagnaRide suspension system StabiliTrak electronic stability control. Most of the grunt, however, comes from a 6.0L Vortec V8 with fuel-saving cylinder deactivation and late intake valve closing and variable valve timing technologies. It produces 332hp (248kW) and 367lb-ft (498Nm) of torque. To differentiate the hybrid model from the regular Yukon Denali, designers have added newly designed 22in flangeless chrome wheels and discreet badging. Inside, designers filled the cabin with a number of handy amenities including a 12-way power, heated/cooled leather front seats, and an optional sunroof, DVD entertainment system, and blind zone alert side-mirrors. Other goodies include OnStar connectivity with Turn-by-Turn Navigation, a reversing camera, a Bose stereo system, and three years of real-time XM NavTraffic. Pricing starts at $59,185 for the 2WD model and goes up to $62,030 for the 4WD model, as well as $950 in destination charges.2010 GMC Yukon Denali Hybrid Read More

  • Holden prepares business case to sell Commodore under different GM brands

    Holden prepares business case to sell Commodore under different GM brands May 1st, 2009 ByJames Martinez James Martinez, Author, May 1st, 2009 James Martinez 9 Comments

    Holden prepares business case to sell Commodore under different GM brands Pontiac's demise has left a lot of people in the lurch, including General Motors’ own Australian subsidiary Holden, which lost a vital contract for the supply of its Commodore-based G8 sedans to the North American market. The Aussie subsidiary is not giving up on bringing the Commodore Stateside, however, as Pontiac’s demise may allow Holden to sink its claws into a more successful GM brand.

    Exactly how Holden will go about accomplishing this is uncertain, especially considering GM CEO Fritz Henderson has confirmed that the G8 won’t be sold under any other brands in North America. One possibility that has a strong chance... Pontiac's demise has left a lot of people in the lurch, including General Motors’ own Australian subsidiary Holden, which lost a vital contract for the supply of its Commodore-based G8 sedans to the North American market. The Aussie subsidiary is not giving up on bringing the Commodore Stateside, however, as Pontiac’s demise may allow Holden to sink its claws into a more successful GM brand. Exactly how Holden will go about accomplishing this is uncertain, especially considering GM CEO Fritz Henderson has confirmed that the G8 won’t be sold under any other brands in North America. One possibility that has a strong chance is the G8 being sold as a Chevrolet to different law enforcement agencies around the U.S. Another possibility that is starting to gain credence is the Pontiac Sport Truck (ST), a model based on the 'ute' class of vehicles popular in Australia, being sold through GMC as a niche model. Other avenues for Holden into the U.S. market include attaching itself Cadillac. Both GM brands are associated with large rear-wheel-drive cars and smaller customer bases than mainstream brands such as Chevrolet. According to GoAuto, Holden has gone so far as to develop business cases for the GMC and Cadillac deals but any green light is still a long way off. The story doesn’t end there as Holden is also reportedly looking to export small cars to the U.S. through GM's Delta platform, the new global architecture underpinning cars like the Chevrolet Cruze and Volt as well as a new compact sedan to be manufactured in Australia by Holden. Whether or not this will help Holden’s case for bringing its Commodore back to the U.S., however, remains unclear. Read More

  • GM says Pontiac and GMC are safe, updated restructuring plan coming tomorrow

    GM says Pontiac and GMC are safe, updated restructuring plan coming tomorrow April 16th, 2009 ByJames Martinez James Martinez, Author, April 16th, 2009 James Martinez 11 Comments

    GM says Pontiac and GMC are safe, updated restructuring plan coming tomorrow General Motors is currently seeking a buyer for Hummer, is looking to sell a stake in Opel, plans to cut its ties with Saab, and is open to almost anything with Saturn, but despite the drastic moves the auto industry task force established by President Obama is still seeking more. After rejecting the second round of viability plans from GM at the end of last month, the carmaker was given just 60 days to restructure or face paying back all its government funded loans.

    Facing a new June 1 deadline to restructure, GM will need to make more cuts to appease the task force and recent reports have indicated that these cuts may include dropping ... General Motors is currently seeking a buyer for Hummer, is looking to sell a stake in Opel, plans to cut its ties with Saab, and is open to almost anything with Saturn, but despite the drastic moves the auto industry task force established by President Obama is still seeking more. After rejecting the second round of viability plans from GM at the end of last month, the carmaker was given just 60 days to restructure or face paying back all its government funded loans. Facing a new June 1 deadline to restructure, GM will need to make more cuts to appease the task force and recent reports have indicated that these cuts may include dropping Pontiac and GMC. GM has officially denied these suggestions, with the company’s sales chief Mark LaNeve also confirming that rumored plans to terminate franchise agreements of poorly performing dealers before June 1 to accelerate dealership consolidation was also false. Speaking with Automotive News, LaNeve said the strategy laid out in February “is still the strategy" but explained that it will be tweaked as the June 1 deadline approaches. GM’s new Fritz Henderson has also announced that an updated restructuring plan will be revealed tomorrow morning. GM has consistently stated that it will keep its Chevrolet, Cadillac, Buick and GMC brands, while also downsizing Pontiac to a niche player, and it appears nothing has changed.2010 GMC Terrain Read More

  • GMC adds Yukon Denali Hybrid to lineup

    GMC adds Yukon Denali Hybrid to lineup April 4th, 2009 By Viknesh Vijayenthiran Viknesh Vijayenthiran, Author, April 4th, 2009 Viknesh Vijayenthiran 3 Comments

    GMC adds Yukon Denali Hybrid to lineup Joining the Yukon Hybrid SUV and Sierra Hybrid Pickup this May is the all-new GMC Yukon Denali Hybrid SUV, which makes its debut this week at the New York Auto Show. The latest addition is an upmarket fullsize SUV that seats eight, tows up to 5,800lb (2,636kg) and according to GM achieves an impressive 21mpg (11.2L/100km) in city driving – comparable to a V6 Toyota Camry.

    Vehicles like the Yukon Denali are ideal for a hybrid application because of the greater fuel savings compared to smaller petrol-electric models like the Prius and Insight. This will be a crucial factor in showrooms, as fuel economy is the most important... Joining the Yukon Hybrid SUV and Sierra Hybrid Pickup this May is the all-new GMC Yukon Denali Hybrid SUV, which makes its debut this week at the New York Auto Show. The latest addition is an upmarket fullsize SUV that seats eight, tows up to 5,800lb (2,636kg) and according to GM achieves an impressive 21mpg (11.2L/100km) in city driving – comparable to a V6 Toyota Camry. Vehicles like the Yukon Denali are ideal for a hybrid application because of the greater fuel savings compared to smaller petrol-electric models like the Prius and Insight. This will be a crucial factor in showrooms, as fuel economy is the most important consideration for roughly 80% of Yukon Denali buyers. Powering the vehicle is GM’s familiar Two-Mode hybrid system, which combines two lightweight electric motors packaged in the transmission, as well as regenerative brakes and electrically-powered steering and air-conditioning systems. The Yukon Denali Hybrid also comes with GM’s MagnaRide suspension system StabiliTrak electronic stability control. Most of the grunt, however, comes from a 6.0L Vortec V8 with fuel-saving cylinder deactivation and late intake valve closing and variable valve timing technologies. It produces 332hp (248kW) and 367lb-ft (498Nm) of torque. To differentiate the hybrid model from the regular Yukon Denali, designers have added newly designed 22in flangeless chrome wheels and discreet badging. Inside, designers filled the cabin with a number of handy amenities including a 12-way power, heated/cooled leather front seats, and an optional sunroof, DVD entertainment system, and blind zone alert side-mirrors. Other goodies include OnStar connectivity with Turn-by-Turn Navigation, a reversing camera, a Bose stereo system, and three years of real-time XM NavTraffic. Pricing starts at $59,185 for the 2WD model and goes up to $62,030 for the 4WD model, as well as $950 in destination charges.2010 GMC Yukon Denali Hybrid Read More

  • GMC unveils all new Terrain crossover

    GMC unveils all new Terrain crossover April 4th, 2009 ByKenneth Hall Kenneth Hall, Author, April 4th, 2009 Kenneth Hall 15 Comments

    GMC unveils all new Terrain crossover GMC is moving into the burgeoning compact crossover market with its brand new Terrain, which debuts this week at the New York Auto Show. GM will once again be touting the vehicle’s impressive fuel-economy, especially for the base 2.4L model, which is packed with a number of features to help reduce fuel consumption.

    The compact crossover receives a fresh new look for 2010, characterized by bold, muscular fender flares, representing GMC’s new design theme. Surfacing is angular yet refined, with a strong and capable front-end appearance with squared-off edges.

    Additional design features include a unique, three-element grille... GMC is moving into the burgeoning compact crossover market with its brand new Terrain, which debuts this week at the New York Auto Show. GM will once again be touting the vehicle’s impressive fuel-economy, especially for the base 2.4L model, which is packed with a number of features to help reduce fuel consumption. The compact crossover receives a fresh new look for 2010, characterized by bold, muscular fender flares, representing GMC’s new design theme. Surfacing is angular yet refined, with a strong and capable front-end appearance with squared-off edges. Additional design features include a unique, three-element grille that is accented by chrome surrounds and projector-beam headlamps mounted in large, rectangular housings splashed with more chrome. A new 2.4L four-cylinder engine that features direct injection is expected to deliver best-in-segment highway fuel economy of 30mpg (7.8L/100km), but to achieve this drivers will need to activate the vehicle’s ‘ECO’ model. At the push of a button, the Terrain’s torque converter in the automatic transmission lowers the lockup speed to 1,125rpm to help save fuel. Also available will be a 3.0L direct injected V6 delivering 264hp (197kW). Both engines are mated to a six-speed automatic transmission, and are offered with either FWD or AWD configurations. The Terrain will also be equipped with a number of features, including a rear vision camera, powered liftgate, Bluetooth connectivity, USB and MP3 playback, a seven inch LCD display and hard-drive satnav system, as well as standard OnStar and XM Satellite Radio. Production will be handled at GM’s CAMI assembly plant in Ontario, Canada, with first sales to start in the middle of the year. Also on show at this week’s New York event will be the GMC Yukon Denali Hybrid SUV.2010 GMC Terrain Read More

  • GM recalls more than 270,000 vehicles due to faulty shifter

    GM recalls more than 270,000 vehicles due to faulty shifter March 17th, 2009 ByJames Martinez James Martinez, Author, March 17th, 2009 James Martinez 3 Comments

    GM recalls more than 270,000 vehicles due to faulty shifter With all the financial strife General Motors finds itself in, the last thing it needs are product recalls bringing into doubt the quality of its vehicles. Unfortunately for GM, a product recall is just what the company was forced to issue, and with more than 270,000 vehicles across the country affected people are going to take notice.

    The recall affects the 2009 versions of the Buick Enclave, and the Chevrolet Cobalt, HHR, Malibu and Traverse. The Saturn Aura and Outlook have also been affected, as have the GMC Acadia, and the Pontiac G5 and G6.

    The issue with the shift lever lies in an inability to effectively mesh with the transmission.... With all the financial strife General Motors finds itself in, the last thing it needs are product recalls bringing into doubt the quality of its vehicles. Unfortunately for GM, a product recall is just what the company was forced to issue, and with more than 270,000 vehicles across the country affected people are going to take notice. The recall affects the 2009 versions of the Buick Enclave, and the Chevrolet Cobalt, HHR, Malibu and Traverse. The Saturn Aura and Outlook have also been affected, as have the GMC Acadia, and the Pontiac G5 and G6. The issue with the shift lever lies in an inability to effectively mesh with the transmission. This issue manifests itself when drivers move the shift lever into the 'Park' position for automatic cars and the transmission doesn't actually reach the 'Park' setting. This could cause cars to roll away if the handbrake is not engaged, although GM did not go into specifics as to what other issues could present themselves. While around 270,000 cars are being recalled, most are still sitting in dealer lots. Only around 75,000 vehicles that could potentially be affected by the faulty shift lever have been sold to consumers, and none of those vehicles have reported any problems relating to the recall as of yet. Product recalls are an unfortunate part of life for manufacturers, however even the most prestigious auto brands have been forced to issue recalls as recently as this year, including Ferrari (who's F430 Spider convertibles were at risk of going up in flames), BMW and Maserati. Read More

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