Ettleson GMC

Buick and GMC Showrooms Transforming Across Country

2012-02-03T09:36:00.000-08:00

More than 80 percent of eligible dealers are enrolled in dealership update program

DETROIT – Buick and GMC customers nationwide are discovering how a more welcoming dealership atmosphere enhances the experience of buying a new car or servicing a vehicle. More than 1,900 dealers, many in major markets, are showing the way.

The ongoing dealership image enhancement program includes a new exterior façade with updated signage, a bright and airy showroom featuring a customer greeting station, and a customer lounge with free Wi-Fi. In some cases, a café or salon is part of the experience.

The changes are important because both Buick and GMC currently attract more than 40 percent of their buyers from brands outside General Motors.

Gensler, a leading global architecture firm, is helping Buick and GMC marry the new design details with each dealership’s existing building.

Paul Masse, owner of two Buick-GMC stores in New England, has completed one dealership update in South Kingstown, Rhode Island, and is in the process of revitalizing another store in Woonsocket.

“The design group from Gensler did a great job with the colors and appearance,” Masse said. “It really does bring in a new type of customer.”

And Masse’s customers are noticing the differences.

“This new store provides such a comfortable place to buy and service a vehicle,” said Crystal Montgomery of East Providence. “This dealership takes quality to a whole new level.”

To date, more than 170 dealers have completed the image enhancement program. Combined with the number of stores at various points in the process, 1,900 Buick and GMC dealers are involved. By the end of 2013, more than 2,000 buildings across the United States will be fully revitalized.

Read More: http://media.gm.com/content/media/us/en/gm/news.detail.html/content/Pages/news/us/en/2012/Jan/0130_buickgmc

GM shows how interactive car windows could be fun for passengers

2012-01-27T07:44:00.001-08:00

How do you fight boredom if you're stuck in the back seat during a long road trip? Surf the Web on your smart phone? Stare at the scenery and wonder what you're whizzing by? Researchers at General Motors, along with students at the Future Lab at Bezalel Academy of Art and Design in Israel, think there are ways to merge the two.

GM's Windows of Opportunity (WOO) Project asked the Israeli students to "conceptualize new ways to help rear seat passengers, particularly children, have a richer experience on the road." And what they came up with is quite stunning.

Using existing—albeit expensive—technology, the futurists created a prototype entertainment and information system that uses touch- and gesture-sensitive rear door windows. The system ties into the car's information systems—speed and location via GPS, for example—and the wireless Web. Four experimental "apps" displayed on the special window keep the back seat passenger entertained and informed.

According to the press release, the apps include:

Otto, an animated character projected over passing scenery that responds to real-time car performance, weather, and landscape. With Otto, passengers can learn about their environment in fun, playful ways.
Foofu, which allows passengers to create and explore by drawing on the window with a finger.
Spindow, a social media like app that connects riders with others passengers around the globe in real time.
Pond, an app that allows passengers to stream and share music with other cars on the road, download favorite tracks, and share messages with other passengers on the road.

The Bezalel Academy students demonstrate the prototype system in a video (see below), but there are no immediate plans to put such interactive displays in production vehicles, said GM's press release.

Read More: http://news.consumerreports.org/cars/2012/01/gm-shows-how-interactive-car-windows-could-be-fun-for-passengers.html

GMC Wraps Up Monday Night Football Tour

2012-01-19T12:16:00.001-08:00

DETROIT – GMC, together with the NFL, completed its second annual Monday Night Football Tour, with NFL cities reaping the benefits of more than 300 volunteers who built playgrounds as part of United Way’s nationwide effort to get 1.9 million more kids active and healthy by 2018.

Playgrounds were completed in Dallas, Tampa Bay, Detroit, New York City, Kansas City, Philadelphia, Boston, New Orleans and Seattle. Volunteers, including NFL players like Detroit Lions’ tight end Brandon Pettigrew, contributed more than 1,000 hours of labor.

In Kansas City, Mo., a grade school received a playground it was lacking since its original construction 25 years ago. In New York, a new playground gave young children a place to play at a school previously offering only equipment for older students.

The United Way Healthy Kids Zones—Driven by GMC offered thousands of children the opportunity to climb, build upper body strength, promote balance and agility, and develop strength and endurance. The playground equipment, paid for by GMC and supplied by GameTime, is designed to help children develop active, healthy bodies, as well as personal and social skills.

“GMC recognizes how important it is to raise awareness about the issue of childhood obesity and to create new opportunities for young people to lead healthier lifestyles,” said Craig Bierley, GMC Advertising and Sales Promotion director. “By working with the NFL and United Way, GMC is helping make communities stronger.”

Read More: http://media.gm.com/content/media/us/en/gm/news.detail.html/content/Pages/news/us/en/2012/Jan/0113_nfl_gm

Terrain and Acadia Continue to Attract New GMC Customers

2011-12-16T12:43:00.000-08:00

DETROIT – For the third consecutive time since the GMC Terrain debuted in 2009, the smaller SUV is on track to end the year with more than half its sales coming from brands outside General Motors. And more than one in five is coming from import car and truck brands including Toyota, Honda, and Nissan.

The GMC Acadia also continues to attract new customers to the brand. Like Terrain, Acadia is on track to count more than half of its owners from outside GM in 2011, continuing a four-year trend for the full-size crossover.

Acadia has the lowest cost of ownership in its segment, according to ALG, which tracks residual values, or how much a vehicle is expected to be worth after a certain number of years. Through November, total Acadia sales were up 18.6 percent year to date.

New in the 2012 GMC Terrain is the industry’s first crash avoidance system that exclusively uses a single camera to help drivers avoid front-end collisions. This technology is coupled with lane-departure warning for $295. Starting in Spring 2012, GMC’s new Intellilink infotainment system will be an option. Terrain sales were up 47.3 percent through November.

“Acadia and Terrain are industry leaders in both design and technology,” said Brian Sweeney, U.S. vice president of Buick and GMC Sales and Service. “Consumers are taking notice, as evidenced by each model’s sales increases through the first 11 months of 2011.”

After being redesigned for the 2011 model year, Sierra HD pickups are also ending their first full calendar year on a high note. Total sales were up 30.7 percent in November, and retail sales of ¾-ton extended-cab models were up 74.2 percent.

Retail sales of all Sierra pickups – ½ ton, ¾ ton and one ton – were up a combined 22.4 percent in November.

Read More: http://www.media.gm.com/content/media/us/en/gm/news.detail.html/content/Pages/news/us/en/2011/Dec/1202_gmcsales

GM Lansing Delta Township Plant Builds Millionth Vehicle

2011-11-23T13:04:00.000-08:00

LANSING, Mich. – A Crystal Red Tintcoat GMC Acadia Denali rolled off the production line at General Motors’ Lansing Delta Township Assembly Plant today, the 1 millionth vehicle produced at the automaker’s newest assembly plant in North America.

“This milestone shows the dedication of our team members to provide the highest-quality crossovers,” said plant manager Scott Whybrew. “Our team has established a strong foundation by continually improving our plant operations in order to exceed the expectations of our customers.”

Since starting production in 2006, Lansing Delta Township has manufactured the Saturn Outlook, Chevrolet Traverse, GMC Acadia, Acadia Denali and Buick Enclave. A white Outlook was the first vehicle produced on May 24, 2006.

The plant currently employs approximately 3,700 employees on three shifts and can manufacture 290,000 vehicles a year.

“Producing the millionth vehicle would not be possible without the great people we have here,” said UAW Local 602 Chairman Rick Martinez. “Our employees are highly trained, and we couldn't create the models with such high quality without our people.”

Read More: http://media.gm.com/content/media/us/en/gm/news.detail.html/content/Pages/news/us/en/2011/Nov/1116_100mil

GMC rolls out less expensive nav system, hints at apps to come

2011-11-10T09:04:00.001-08:00

GMC has launched a new navigation system featuring a large, seven-inch screen, a lower price that is less than half that of some automaker systems, and app-like icon controls hinting at future additional functionality.

The $795 Color Touch Navigation System also includes a free three-month trial of XM traffic and weather services. After the trial, users will have the option of subscribing for $12.95 a month for the basic satellite radio subscription, plus $3.99 a month for traffic and weather data.

Navigating through menus is accomplished by tapping icons on the screen for weather, traffic, navigation, and other functions. While the icons lend a smart-phone-like look to the screen, no other application functionality is offered at this time. But a GMC representative strongly hinted that capability will be offered in the future. Other manufacturers including Hyundai and Toyota already offer apps for things like restaurant reviews and recommendations.

In addition to AM/FM and satellite radio and a CD player, Color Touch also includes USB and auxiliary audio inputs, and Bluetooth technology through OnStar for hands-free calls. The navigation system does not include voice activation, however.

Available now on the 2012 GMC Terrain SUV, Color Touch navigation will follow on more GMC models, and other GM divisions are scheduled to get their own versions of the system.

Read More: http://news.consumerreports.org/cars/2011/11/gmc-rolls-out-less-expensive-nav-system-hints-at-apps-to-come.html

GM, Costco join to sell GMC light trucks

2011-11-04T08:31:00.000-07:00

DETROIT -- Costco has launched a deal with General Motors allowing its members to buy certain Chevrolet and GMC light trucks through select franchised dealers at a so-called "preferred price" -- generally equivalent to the price that the automaker offers its suppliers' employees.

Rick Borg, vice president of the Costco Auto Program, on Tuesday said the popular warehouse club expects its members to buy more than 5,000 new Chevrolet and GMC light trucks under the program. It started Tuesday and will end Jan. 3.

Costco also is giving a $500 Costco Cash Card to members who participate in the program.

GM spokesman Jim Cain described the Costco promotion as a "brand-awareness program" and a first for GM.

'Great showcase'

"Costco provides a great showcase. It has millions of members nationwide," he said. "This gives us the opportunity to put vehicles on display and reach people in a unique setting outside of a dealership."

GM's "preferred price" is a discount that varies by product, Cain said. It is similar to special prices that employees of GM suppliers are eligible to receive, for example. The deal is not as deep as an employee discount, Cain said.

Eligible vehicles include the new 2011 and 2012 Chevrolet Silverado, Suburban, Tahoe and Traverse and GMC Acadia, Sierra, Yukon and Yukon XL.

Costco members who take advantage of the program can combine the lower prices with other GM rebates and incentives for which they are eligible.

To participate, Costco members must register with the Costco Auto Program online or by calling a special telephone number. They also must complete redemption forms and surveys after making the purchase to receive the $500 Costco Cash Card incentive.

Read more: http://www.autonews.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20111102/COPY01/311029764/1261#ixzz1ckcfK2x0

Consumer Report 2011 Annual Car Reliability Survey: Most reliable American cars

2011-10-28T09:19:00.001-07:00

Consumer Reports recently unveiled the results of its latest reliability survey, showing that Asian brands continue to occupy the top-tier, claiming nine of the top 10 spots in our rankings. However, the findings among the domestic brands are noteworthy, and there’s plenty of good news within each segment.

We’re often asked how the domestics’ reliability stacks up, especially with some people wanting to specifically buy American. (Of course, defining what is an “American” car can be a challenge.) The results show that there are some very reliable U.S.-branded models, but they also remind of potential risks with buying first-year models.

Below is a list of vehicles with the highest predicted reliability within their respective segments. (We have only listed models whose predicted reliability is average or better.)

Midsized SUVs
GMC Terrain (V6)

Read More: http://news.consumerreports.org/cars/2011/10/most-reliable-american-cars.html

GMC Terrain’s Navigation System Goes Beyond Directions

2011-10-19T09:02:00.000-07:00

DETROIT – Going places just got easier with the introduction of the new Color Touch Navigation System on the 2012 GMC Terrain.

The system is available for $795 – less expensive than competing systems – and offers a full range of functions including maps, directions, music, hands-free phone, and three months of SiriusXM NavTraffic^® and local forecast.

Terrain’s Color Touch Navigation System includes GMC’s new Color Touch Radio System, plus onboard navigation capabilities, including an updateable secure digital card-based map database, multiple map views and destination input methods.

The integrated Color Touch Radio System includes AM/FM, CD, SiriusXM^™ Satellite Radio, USB and auxiliary inputs for iPod and other MP3 players, and hands-free control of Bluetooth phones and voice commands through OnStar.

“Terrain’s Color Touch Navigation System is practical, purposeful technology with a high-tech look and feel at an economical price point compared to competing systems,” said Dave Bojanowski, GM navigation systems engineer. “Anyone familiar with smartphones or tablet computers will find its 7-inch color touch-screen and large app icons intuitive and easy to use.”

The system also offers an SD card reader linked to a photo viewer function that allows passengers to view pictures from cameras or smartphones in the display when the Terrain is parked. The LCD screen also displays album art stored on a connected iPod.

By offering hands-free control of Bluetooth phones and voice commands through OnStar, Terrain’s Color Touch system allows drivers to keep their hands on the wheel and eyes on the road.

“Today’s car buyers don’t want to settle for mass-market radio, and they don’t have to,” said Tim Nixon, executive director, Global Electrical Systems, Infotainment and Electrification, citing GM research. “They expect to have access to personalized media wherever they are and the introduction of the Color Touch Radio and Navigation System makes media personalization easier than ever.”

Read More: http://media.gm.com/content/media/us/en/gm/news.detail.html/content/Pages/news/us/en/2011/Oct/1019_terrain

High-Mileage Chevy Equinox, GMC Terrain To Get Eco eAssist System For 2014?

2011-10-07T12:55:00.000-07:00

The mild-hybrid system that General Motors calls eAssist (on the 2012 Buick Lacrosse and Regal models) will also appear on the 2013 Chevrolet Malibu Eco version.

But now it appears that the system will spread further across GM's product lines, with a report on GMInsideNews that it will appear on both the Chevrolet Equinox and GMC Terrain crossover utility vehicles for the 2014 model year.

With the 2013 Malibu launching solely in its highest-mileage Malibu Eco form at first, demand for the 2.4-liter EcoTech engine with the hybrid alternator-starter attached is expected to decline once an all-new 2.5-liter non-hybrid four is offered later in the model year as the base Malibu engine.

To keep monthly production of its mild-hybrid engines as consistent as possible, GM reportedly plans to offer that engine in the Equinox and Terrain (which are built in the same factories and largely identical under the skin), starting in 2013.

The Lacrosse with eAssist is rated by the EPA at 25 mpg city, 36 mpg highway, improvements of 32 and 20 percent respectively over the 2011 Lacrosse fitted with the non-hybrid 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine (rated at 19 mpg city, 30 mpg highway).

Applying those same improvements to the 2012 Equinox with the base 2.4-liter four, it could be rated as high as 29 mpg city, 38 mpg highway (against its current ratings of 22 city, 32 highway).

Read More: http://www.greencarreports.com/news/1066988_high-mileage-chevy-equinox-gmc-terrain-to-get-eco-eassist-system-for-2014

GMC Kicks Off Monday Night Football Tour

2011-09-29T09:46:00.000-07:00

Interactive event lets fans find out if their football skills are Professional Grade
Tour stops include United Way community projects in nine cities

DETROIT – GMC, together with the NFL, will launch its second annual Monday Night Football Tour this weekend undertaking United Way community projects in Dallas, followed by Tampa Bay, Detroit, New York City, Kansas City, Philadelphia, Boston, New Orleans and Seattle.

This year’s expanded tour program invites fans to test their football skills against the pros for a chance to win Monday Night Football game tickets, NFLshop.com gift cards and signed memorabilia. Fans can also meet current and former NFL players such as Miles Austin, DeSean Jackson, Mike Alstott and Tony Dorsett, as well as ESPN Monday Night Football announcer Mike Tirico.

After testing their skills and meeting the pros, fans will have the opportunity to test drive the GMC Acadia, Sierra, Terrain and Yukon and discover why GMC is the official vehicle of the NFL. Go to MondayNightFootballTour.com to learn more and register for the event.

“GMC is taking its game plan for the Monday Night Football Tour to the next level by delivering a more engaging interactive event for NFL fans,” said Craig Bierley, GMC Advertising and Sales Promotion director. “In its first year, the tour helped GMC connect with NFL fans in a fun and engaging way. We’re looking to build on that success in 2011.”

As part of the tour, GMC is teaming up with United Way volunteers, including NFL players, to build playgrounds in local communities as part of United Way’s nationwide effort to get 1.9 million more kids active and healthy by 2018.

The United Way Healthy Kids Zones—Driven by GMC will offer children the opportunity to climb, build upper body strength, promote balance and agility, and develop strength and endurance. The playground equipment, paid for by GMC and supplied by GameTime, is designed to help children develop active, healthy bodies, as well as personal and social skills.

“Experts recommend that young people engage in moderate-to-vigorous physical activity for at least 60 minutes a day,” said Kitty Hsu Dana, vice president of Health at United Way Worldwide. “This gift from GMC will offer thousands of children and families the opportunity to improve physical fitness with fun, interactive activities.”

Now in its 37th year, the NFL-United Way partnership connects NFL PLAY 60 with United Way's goal to increase youth health and wellness. Studies show the obesity rate among children has nearly doubled in the last 10 years, with approximately 9 million American children over six years old considered obese and at high risk for health problems such as diabetes and heart disease.

“GMC recognizes how important it is to raise awareness about the issue of childhood obesity and to create new opportunities for young people to lead healthier lifestyles,” Bierley said. “By working with the NFL and United Way, GMC is helping make communities stronger.”

TOUR SCHEDULE

GMC WEEKEND EVENT DATES	MNF GAME DATE	UNITED WAY PROJECT DATE	NFL MARKET
September 24-25	September 26	September 27	Dallas
October 1-2	October 3	October 4	Tampa Bay
October 8-9	October 10	October 11	Detroit
October 15-16	October 17	October 18	New York City
October 29-30	October 31	November 1	Kansas City
November 5-6	November 7	November 7	Philadelphia
November 19-20	November 21	November 22	New England
November 26-27	November 28	November 29	New Orleans
December 10-11	December 12	December 13	Seattle

Terrain and Acadia Gain Ground in the Golden State

2011-09-23T09:01:00.000-07:00

DETROIT – When Joanne Grimaldi, an avid cyclist from San Jose, Calif., decided to replace her pickup truck with a more fuel-efficient vehicle, she picked the GMC Terrain because it can haul multiple bicycles while offering an EPA-rated 32 mpg in highway driving.

“On our 200-mile bike rides, my friends and I take turns driving and biking, and I always get compliments about how nice the Terrain is to drive,” said Grimaldi, who rides with the Bay Area's Almaden Cycle Touring Club. “I really like the backup camera, leather interior, OnStar and hands-free control of my phone. Although I enjoyed driving a truck, I still feel like the Terrain gets respect on the roads, while getting better fuel economy.”

Grimaldi is one of many Californians discovering the benefits to owning a Terrain and other Professional Grade GMC vehicles. GMC sales are up 21 percent in the Golden State so far this year with Terrain sales up 39 percent.

Californians also are discovering the GMC Acadia crossover, sales of which are up 26 percent so far this year. The crossover gets better highway fuel range and offers more cargo space than Ford Explorer, and it has room for up to eight passengers.

“We’ve seen a lot of families gravitating from larger vehicles to Acadia and Terrain due to their fuel-efficiency, features and styling,” said Dick Stricklen, owner of Motor City Buick-GMC in Bakersfield. “Our Acadia sales alone have nearly doubled in the past two months, thanks in part to the upscale Denali model’s exclusive styling and premium content.”

Terrain and Acadia fueled GMC’s best sales month of the year in August and its 23^rd consecutive month of retail sales gains nationwide, with sales to individual customers up 26 percent and total sales up 40 percent year over year.

“As a long-time California resident, GMC's latest success is not a big surprise to me,” said James Bell, General Motors’ head of consumer affairs. “This brand has resonated well with the laid-back yet progressive lifestyle we have enjoyed out here for many years, but the Acadia and Terrain are the first GMC vehicles that merge our personalities with our environmental priorities.”

Terrain uses lightweight eco-friendly parts including a plant fiber-reinforced ceiling liner, recycled plastic from soft drink and water bottles in its rigid plastic grille frame, and recycled textile insulation in its carpet assembly, dashboard and cargo area. Acadia uses similar eco-friendly materials. Both vehicles are at least 85 percent recyclable by weight, with recyclable steel accounting for the greatest contribution.

GM facilities worldwide recycle 90 percent of the waste they generate. In 2010 alone, the automaker recycled or reused 2.5 million tons of waste materials at its plants worldwide – enough to fill 6.8 million extended-cab pickup trucks that, if parked end-to-end, would stretch around the world.

Read More: http://media.gm.com/content/media/us/en/gm/news.detail.html/content/Pages/news/us/en/2011/Sep/0902_gmc_cali

Terrain and Acadia Gain Ground in the Golden State

2011-09-08T08:20:00.000-07:00

GMC Sierra 3500HD Wins Best Overall HD Truck

2011-08-30T07:31:00.000-07:00

DETROIT – The GMC Sierra 3500HD won PickupTrucks.com’s “Heavy Duty Hurt Locker” comparison test, a grueling showdown among industry heavyweights that included towing 19,400-pound fifth-wheel trailers up and over some of the most demanding grades in the United States.

“We procured similarly equipped trucks from Ford, Ram and GMC and put them through the paces, towing up and down some of the toughest grades in the country covering a total of 2,200 miles,” said Mike Levine, editor of PickupTrucks.com. “When we analyzed the data, the GMC Sierra 3500HD simply outperformed the trucks from Ford and Ram.”

The results of the comparison conducted July 11-18 between Denver, Colo. and Laughlin, Nev., reflect improvements to the 2012 Sierra 3500HD that give Sierra best-in-class towing for both conventional and fifth-wheel trailers.

“Customers choose full-size trucks for their capabilities,” said Rick Spina, vehicle line executive for full-size trucks. “For 2012, we built on the foundation we created in 2011, with engineering changes and additional validation designed to make the most capable heavy-duty pickup even better. Based on PickupTrucks.com’s test results, it looks like we got the job done.”

For enhanced fifth-wheel towing, engineers strengthened the pickup box sills and other box structures, rear springs, u-bolts and box mounts, and upgraded the shock tuning. As a result, Sierra 3500HD now has a best-in-class tow rating of 23,000 pounds, up from 21,700 pounds in 2011.

Sierra also will lead the class in dually payload, with a 7,215-lb. payload for the 3500HD regular cab gasoline dually. Updates to the trailer hitch receiver increase conventional towing to 18,000 pounds, up from 17,000 pounds. Both changes will be on models arriving in dealerships in the fourth quarter.

Read More: http://media.opel.com/content/media/us/en/gm/news.detail.html/content/Pages/news/us/en/2011/Aug/0815_sierra

GMC Sierra Dealers Chicago

From Steak to Beef Jerky: GMC Hopes to Make You Criss-Crossover

2011-07-29T07:39:00.000-07:00

General Motors is leaner and meaner, but is it greener? It’s not going from big T-bone steaks to salads, but may be downgrading to beef jerky. As part of a plan to remain viable in a volatile economy, GMC, once GM’s trucks-only division, has plans to expand its range. In addition to its earthy sounding names – Terrain, Granite, Yukon, etc. – GMC is actually getting a little earthy by expanding its hybrid offerings on future models. This represents a crucial shift for the big truck division as it prepares itself for a future where everyone, even truck buyers, want more fuel efficient, wallet and eco-friendly vehicles.

The GMC Granite subcompact crossover, a concept revealed at the 2010 Detroit Auto Show, has done what few concepts ever do: Become a real car. The Granite should hit showrooms in the fall of 2012 as a 2013 model. With its big wheels and aggressive, boxy styling, the 2013 GMC Granite could be a domestic alternative against vehicles like Kia Soul, Scion xB, and Nissan Cube.

The 2013 GMC Granite will come with a 1.4-liter turbocharged engine, while a 2.0-liter or 2.5-liter engine may be offered for those seeking a little more power. The Granite offers its own brand of funkiness common to the segment, including rear-hinged doors that open out on the passenger side and enough boxiness to roll with the big boys, or the subcompact crossover boys, anyway
What GMC has got in the works:

GMC Terrain: The Terrain has managed great success in the midsized crossover segment, and we expect that to continue. It offers a roomy, nice ride with decent fuel economy to boot.

2013 models to include Denali version
GM’s eAssist light-hybrid system may appear on 2014 or 2015 models

GMC Acadia: GMC’s larger crossover, the Acadia, delivers a roomy cabin with plenty of cargo room. Its sub-par interior will get a needed touch up.

2013 model to receive new grille along with a few cosmetic changes to both the exterior and interior
A 3.0-liter V6 will replace the 3.6-liter engine
2015 should see the release of an all-new Acadia

GMC Yukon, Yukon XL: The Yukon has enjoyed a long successful run in part to its comfortable cabin, excellent towing capability and cushy ride.

All-new 2014 model to include a more efficient powertrain and an eight-speed transmission
Future plans include a more dynamic, fuel efficient hybrid system

GMC Sierra 1500, 2500, 3500: GMC’s full-sized Sierra pickup has been a solid get-the-job-done choice for many years. The variety of models and engines also help it remain fixed in the pick-up market.

New Sierra 1500 engineering and styling for 2014 model year
More fuel efficient powertrain and a possible eight-speed transmission
Sierra 2500 and 3500 models are expected to be restyled for the 2014 or 2015 model year, more fuel efficient models likely

GMC Canyon: GMC will discontinue the Canyon. It’s possible that the Chevy Colorado or a similar small to midsized pickup will take its place in the GMC segment in the future.

Pandora Internet Radio Integration Spreads to GMC Models; More Automakers Plan Integration

2011-07-14T13:05:00.000-07:00

Pandora‘s efforts—inadvertently or not—to squelch terrestrial radio continue to expand. The streaming radio service is available in a number of BMWs, Fords, Mercedes-Benzes, and Minis, and this week the company announced that it will soon be serving Pandora-monium to Scions and even more Ford and Lincoln models.

Ten Ford models and two Lincolns now support the streaming radio app, whereas before only the Ford Fiesta, Fusion, Mustang, and Lincoln MKZ were offered with the necessary AppLink SYNC software. Although you can always listen to Pandora in the car through your phone and the car’s AUX input jack, it means your hands have to be on the phone; the integrated SYNC/Pandora system can be controlled through the car’s stereo- or steering wheel–mounted controls.

Several automakers are working to integrate Pandora’s mobile app with their on-board audio systems. Buick, Chevrolet, GMC, Hyundai, and Toyota all plan to offer the capability in their cars in the near future. Owners of older vehicles or those in the market for an aftermarket audio system can find Pandora integration in offerings from Alpine, JVC, Kenwood, and Pioneer; a compatible Sony system will hit the market soon.

Read More: http://blog.caranddriver.com/pandora-internet-radio-integration-spreads-to-scion-more-ford-models-more-automakers-plan-integration/

Chicago GMC

GMC Launches Shopping App for Smartphones

2011-07-01T08:31:00.000-07:00

GMC has introduced a mobile app for the Apple iPhone and other Android phones enabling users to shop, research, and configure a GMC vehicle. The GMC Showroom App has photos and videos of the latest GMC models and is now available for iPhone users in the Apple App store. On the Android market, the release is scheduled for the end of July. The app will be compatible with the iPhone ions 3.1 or better and the 1.6 OS or better (excluding Honeycomb) for the Android.
Consumers using the app can configure GMC vehicles and compare them to the competition. A simple interface makes it easy to locate a GMC dealer in their area, request a quote, schedule a dealer test drive, or view current offers.

“We recognize that smartphones play an important role in our customers’ lives, including purchase decisions,” said John Schwegman, U.S. vice president of GMC marketing. “The new GMC Showroom App provides our customers with the advanced technology they have come to expect of the GMC brand and the convenience to easily engage with their GMC dealer.”

A survey conducted by Chadwick Martin Bailey and iModerate Research Technologies revealed more than 50 percent of consumers polled use their smartphones to shop. Smartphone sales are expected to continue to increase, suggesting that there may be a growing market for well-executed automaker smartphone apps.

GMC Chicago

Best SUVs for fuel economy for summer 2011

2011-06-15T08:45:00.000-07:00

What are people buying? You might be surprised. Even with national gasoline prices hovering around $4 a gallon, we find shoppers are gravitating toward new small and midsized SUVs, based on a recent survey by the Consumer Reports National Research Center. While traditionally versatile vehicles, SUVs are often not the thriftiest choices. But as in every vehicle class, there are some that are better than others, and below we highlight the most fuel-efficient models in our ratings.

These lists feature our latest tests of the most fuel-thrifty small, midsized, luxury, and large SUVs currently on the market. But since there is more to choosing a car than fuel economy, we’ve also noted models that are recommended, which means they meet Consumer Reports strict requirements for performance, reliability, and safety.

GMC Terrain SLE1 (4-cyl.)

$26,745

MPG - 21

GM to invest $331 million in Texas SUV plant

2011-05-31T13:56:00.000-07:00

DETROIT (Reuters) -- General Motors Co. plans to invest $331 million and add 110 jobs at its Arlington, Texas, plant, where it makes the Chevrolet Tahoe, Suburban, GMC Yukon and Cadillac Escalade SUVs.

The new jobs will be added to an existing workforce of 2,400 hourly and salaried employees at the plant, the automaker said today.

The investment, part of GM's previously announced plan to invest $2 billion in 17 U.S. plants, is primarily for manufacturing machinery, equipment, special tooling and an expansion of the current facility.

Among the investments GM has already announced are $109 million at two Michigan plants in Flint and Bay City, $69 million at its Detroit-Hamtramck assembly plant and $131 million at a Kentucky plant to build a new version of the Corvette sports car.

IntelliLink Infotainment System is Buick and GMC’s Version of Chevrolet MyLink

2011-05-11T12:19:00.000-07:00

Buick and GMC have pulled the wraps off of their IntelliLink system, the tri-shield and professional grade brands’ answer to Ford’s Sync and its GM stablemate’s Chevrolet MyLink infotainment systems. Given that bow-tie bits have been underpinning GM’s more luxurious brands for decades now, it’s not exactly shocking to learn that IntelliLink is essentially MyLink with different graphics—in fact we suggested as much three weeks ago upon discovery of GM’s IntelliLink trademark application.

As with MyLink, IntelliLink provides hands-free operation and features smartphone integration, OnStar turn-by-turn directions, XM satellite radio, and a USB interface for iPods and other devices. Drivers also can access streaming audio via Pandora or Stitcher SmartRadio, while Luddites can still spin shiny discs or tune in terrestrial AM/FM radio.

The system will debut as standard equipment on the new Buick Verano and the 2012 GMC Terrain and then be deployed across the Buick and GMC lines over the 2012 and 2013 model years.

Read More: http://blog.caranddriver.com/intellilink-infotainment-system-is-buick-and-gmcs-version-of-chevrolet-mylink/

IntelliLink Infotainment System is Buick and GMC’s Version of Chevrolet MyLink

2011-04-28T08:17:00.000-07:00

GMC Standard APR/Rebate Programs

2011-04-12T09:23:00.000-07:00

Year	Make	Model / Series		36mo	48mo	60mo	72mo	Expires
2010	GMC	Sierra	OR	0.0%	0.0%	0.0%	0.0%	05/02/2011

2011	GMC	Acadia	OR	0.0%	0.0%	0.0%	3.9%	05/02/2011

2011	GMC	Canyon	OR	0.0%	0.0%	0.0%	5.9%	05/02/2011

2011	GMC	Savana	OR	0.9%	1.9%	2.9%	4.9%	05/02/2011

2011	GMC	Sierra 1500	OR	0.0%	0.0%	0.0%	2.9%	05/02/2011

2011	GMC	Sierra 2500HD Sierra 3500HD	OR	0.0%	0.0%	0.0%	2.9%	05/02/2011

2011	GMC	Terrain	OR	2.9%	3.9%	4.9%	5.9%	05/02/2011

2011	GMC	Yukon Yukon XL	OR	2.9%	2.9%	2.9%	4.9%	05/02/2011

GMC Illinois

Consumer Reports: Best new-car deals for March

2011-03-22T09:51:00.000-07:00

Spring has sprung. If the new season and promise of warmer weather has given you the itch for a new car, you’re in luck as there are a number of deals and discounts out there. In analyzing current nationwide incentives, we've found some enticing discounts on good models. Locally, you may find additional sales deals being advertised. And being near the end of the month, dealers may be a bit more willing to negotiate to meet their quotas.

Those highlighted below have Bottom Line Prices well below MSRP, when factoring all national incentives. Regional or local offers, as well as bonus incentives that are targeted at specific audiences such as military personnel or college graduates, may further sweeten the deal. The Bottom Line Price gives you a strong starting point for your negotiations, working up from the rock bottom, rather than haggling down from MSRP or even advertised offers.

The models listed below are just a few of our Best New Car Deals—notable discounts on models recommended by Consumer Reports. These vehicles scored well in our testing, have average or better predicted reliability, and performed well in government or insurance-industry safety tests, if evaluated.

Make & model	Expires	MSRP	Invoice price	Customer rebate	Dealer incentive	Bottom line price	Potential savings below MSRP
2011 GMC Sierra 1500 4WD Crew Cab SLT SWB	5/2/2011	42,275	39,316	Yes	No	Get the Bottom Line Price	15%+

Full pricing information is available to online subscribers through the model overview pages.

Consumer Reports also has a "Build & Buy" service that lets you configure a new vehicle online and receive guaranteed, competitive price quotes from up to three dealers in your area who have agreed to meet strict guidelines of conduct. Available to Consumer Reports New Car Price Report purchasers, as well as ConsumerReports.org subscribers, the service is completely free and you are under no obligation to buy.

Read More: http://blogs.consumerreports.org/cars/2011/03/best-new-car-deals-for-march.html

2009 GMC Sierra 1500 2WD Ext Cab 134.0

2011-03-04T12:49:00.000-08:00

2009 GMC Sierra 1500 2WD Ext Cab 134.0
Stock#: 110580A
Exterior: Onyx Black
Interior: Dark Titanium
Miles: 10175
Doors: 2
VIN: 1GTEC19XX9Z103079
4.3L V6 Cylinder Engine

Sale Price $21,988

Limited Warranty 'Bumper-to-Bumper' to 02-14-2013 or 48,000 miles!
Powertrain to 02-14-2014 or 100,000 miles!

GM to add 3rd shift, 750 jobs at Flint truck plant

2011-02-08T08:37:00.000-08:00

FLINT, Mich. -- General Motors Co. announced today that it is adding a third shift and 750 jobs at its Flint, Mich., assembly plant in response to healthy demand for heavy duty versions of its Chevrolet Silverado and the GMC Sierra pickups.

“Our heavy duty pickups are especially hot,” Mark Reuss, GM's president of North America, told hundreds of workers gathered on the plant floor.

Reuss told reporters that GM is “having a hard time supplying” heavy duty and crew-cab trucks, and that growing demand in recent months helped trigger the decision to produce more.

Re-engineered versions of the Chevy Silverado and GMC Sierra heavy duties were released last summer. The Silverado HD was named the 2011 Motor Trend Truck of the Year.

“We're smart enough to know when we have a hit on our hands,” Reuss said.

GM is rolling out several new small cars, which executives say is key to GM's ability to attract new buyers, especially if fuel prices rise. But sales of high-margin trucks “remain crucial to our success,” Reuss said.

Construction uptick aids demand

Reuss attributed some of the increased sales to improved housing starts and construction activity. The heavy duty trucks are a favorite of contractors and trades workers.

GM said it expects to start the additional shift by the third quarter, with new employees starting to arrive from other GM plants in the second quarter.

Recall: 2011 Cadillac, Chevrolet, GMC Trucks - Rear axle cross pin

2011-01-20T11:53:00.000-08:00

General Motors is expanding a previous recall of 2011 trucks to replace the rear axle cross pin, which may have been improperly heat-treated and could fracture, becoming displaced within the rear axle. If the pin moves out of position, it could create interference and cause the rear axle to lock. GM knows of one customer who has experienced the problem, resulting in a loss of power. No related accidents have been reported.

The recall now includes 26,751 vehicles, including Cadillac Escalade, Escalade ESV, Cadillac EXT; Chevrolet Avalanche, Colorado, Silverado, Suburban, Tahoe; and GMC Canyon, Sierra, Yukon and Yukon XL.

GM will begin the recall by January 25th. Owners will be asked to bring their vehicle to their local dealership to have a new rear axle cross pin install free of charge.
For more information, owners may contact:
Cadillac: 1-866-982-2339
Chevrolet: 1-800-630-2438
GMC: 1-866-996-9463

Read More: http://blogs.consumerreports.org/cars/2011/01/recall-2011-cadillac-chevrolet-gmc-trucks-rear-axle-cross-pin.html

GMC Dealers

Green car tax credit expiring December 31st

2010-12-28T13:25:00.000-08:00

On January 1st, buyers interested in purchasing hybrid vehicles will no longer be able to take advantage of the green car tax credit that has been available on qualifying vehicles for the past five years.

While many hybrid vehicles have already reached their sales thresholds and therefore no longer qualify for the tax credit (including models manufactured by Ford, Honda & Toyota), the clock is ticking for other models whose eligibility will be expiring at the end of the year. Among hybrids that still qualify for the tax credit are several Consumer Reports Recommended vehicles, including a few with significant dealer cash incentives on top of the government tax credit. For example, in addition to the tax credit that can be subtracted directly from the federal tax, consumers in the market for a new pickup truck have the potential to save over 10% off MSRP with the current customer cash incentives being offered by General Motors on the 2011 Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra 1500 hybrids.

Here’s a look at the Recommended hybrid models that are still eligible for the tax credit.

2011 GMC Sierra 1500 4x4 Hybrid Crew Cab 3HB	1/3/2011	48,190	45,540	Yes	No	Get the Bottom Line Price	10%+
2011 GMC Sierra 1500 Hybrid Crew Cab 3HB	1/3/2011	45,040	42,563	Yes	No	Get the Bottom Line Price	10%+
2011 GMC Sierra 1500 4x4 Hybrid Crew Cab 3HA	1/3/2011	41,860	39,558	Yes	No	Get the Bottom Line Price	10%+
2011 GMC Sierra 1500 Hybrid Crew Cab 3HA	1/3/2011	38,710	36,581	Yes	No	Get the Bottom Line Price	10%+

All Terrain concept hints at GMC Sierra HD's brawny future

2010-12-21T12:39:00.000-08:00

DETROIT -- GMC is showing off an off-road, heavy-duty pickup concept that hints at bold, muscular styling for the next-generation Sierra HD.

The GMC Sierra All-Terrain HD concept, underpinned by the 2011 Sierra 2500 HD's re-engineered four-wheel-drive chassis, sports a wider track, brawny grille and an extra 3 inches of ground clearance. It was unveiled yesterday at a media preview for next month's Detroit auto show.

The concept was given the same 6.6-liter Duramax diesel engine mated to an Allison 1000 six-speed transmission used in the Sierra HD. A restyle of the Sierra HD is expected in 2014 or 2015.

“You certainly could take it as a hint” of where the next-generation Sierra HD is headed, GMC design manager Carl Zipfel said.

While the massive 35-inch tires, mounted on 20-inch aluminum wheels, and Fox off-road shocks likely would be for “more of a niche or special edition” vehicle, Zipfel said many of the styling features could stick in Sierra restyle.

An all-terrain GMC pickup would compete with the Ford F-150 SVT Raptor and the Ram Power Wagon. It also would offer General Motors Co. an off-road vehicle to replace Hummer.

“It's [for] that premium customer who demands towing and hauling capability and off-road capability in one package,” Zipfel said.

Flared fenders and a streamlined front bumper fully expose the tires and allow for more ground clearance -- 21.1 inches. A beefed-up, forced-induction hood feeds more air to the engine.

The crew cab truck's 5-feet-8-inch bed, taken from GMC's light duty lineup, is nearly a foot shorter that the Sierra HD for better off-road handling. It includes a pair of lighted storage compartments on the sides of the bed.

Motorized, illuminated assist steps for both the cab and cargo bed offer easier access and maximize ground clearance.

GMC didn't say if or when it would green light the pickup.

Read more: http://www.autonews.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20101217/OEM/101219855/1403#ixzz18mT3QrUl

GMC Illinois

REVIEWS: 2011 GMC Sierra 3500 HD Crew Cab SLT 4x4

2010-12-16T08:57:00.000-08:00

I employed the GMC Sierra to tow my 19-foot Glastron boat, a burden of only 4000 pounds. That was a rather piddling load for this well muscled machine and it barely knew a load was in tow. What amazed me most is how quiet, smooth riding, and generally enjoyable this dual-rear-tired pickup has become. The Duramax turbo diesel is quiet, smoke free, and impressively strong especially from rest. It is supremely well matched to the Allison automatic transmission. Anyone who seriously needs this much capacity will be well served by this mega truck.

Read More: http://www.automobilemag.com/reviews/editors_notebook/1011_2011_gmc_sierra_3500_hd_crew_cab_slt_4x4/index.html

GMC Chicago

Buick and GMC dealers upgrade stores, loaner programs

2010-12-07T14:08:00.000-08:00

DETROIT -- Buick and GMC dealers are well along with store renovations, Brian Sweeney, vice president of sales and service for the brands, said today.

About 40 percent of the brands' 2,300 dealerships have started or completed improvements, Sweeney said. Another 30-40 percent will undertake their renovations next year, he said.

General Motors Co. is promoting the largest dealer facilities upgrade program in the carmaker's history. About 700 of the 1,000 GM dealerships that will start or complete the program this year are Chevrolet dealers.

Sam Slaughter, dealer principal of Sellers Buick GMC in suburban Detroit, said customers have complimented the $1.7 million renovations at his store completed last December.

Slaughter built a new showroom, renovated the exterior and transformed the old showroom into a café and customer waiting area with Internet availability.

“Now a guy can bring his car in for an oil change on his lunch hour, grab a sandwich and work on his computer,” Slaughter said.

Return on investment

Teasing out the exact return-on-investment is tough, Slaughter said, because it's difficult to determine what parts the new vehicles, facilities and improved consumer sentiment plays in the car-buying decision.

However, Slaughter said there would have been a cost for not upgrading if customers went elsewhere because they were turned off by looks and feel of the store.

“It's definitely more relaxed here now,” he said.

Buick and GMC have each reported 14 straight months of sales gains on a year-over-year basis. Buick sales were up 36 percent in November, while GMC's rose 30 percent.

Slaughter said he also is participating in a new courtesy loaner program at Buick and GMC.

The brands are providing incentive money for dealers to buy vehicles and put them into loaner service, Slaughter said. The incentives could reach $2,000, he said.

That ensures that loaners are Buick and GMC models rather than those of another GM brand, or worse, that of a non-GM manufacturer, Slaughter said. Participating dealers also get warranty reimbursement for the loaners instead of rental car companies getting that stipend, he said.

Read more: http://www.autonews.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20101203/RETAIL07/101209903/1259#ixzz17SyI0SrQ

GMC Illinois

Chevy, GMC Announce CNG and LPG Vans for Fleets

2010-11-22T14:08:00.000-08:00

DETROIT, Mich. (May 18, 2010) – Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) and Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) powered versions of the Chevrolet Express and GMC Savana full-size vans will be offered to fleet and commercial customers beginning later this year, General Motors Co. announced Monday.

The vans have specially designed engines for the gaseous fuels and come direct to the customer with the fully integrated and warranted dedicated gaseous fuel system in place.

“We’re listening to our fleet customers and dealers about offering options that help them achieve their business objectives”, said Brian Small, general manager of GM’s fleet and commercial operations. “The industry commitment to expand the CNG and LPG infrastructure in key fleet markets was an enabler to allowing us to introduce these options now.”

Going beyond the competition, GM’s proven Vortec 6.0L V8 engine receives hardened exhaust valves and intake and exhaust valve seats for improved wear resistance and durability for gaseous fuel systems. Along with dedicated gaseous fuel injection and fuel storage systems, both the CNG and LPG systems are fully integrated into the vehicle, and will meet EPA and CARB certification requirements, and be fully compliant with applicable motor vehicle safety standards.

The initial CNG offerings will be available on 2011 model year cargo vans and built at GM’s Wentzville assembly plant with the specialized Vortec engine installed. The vans are then completed at a separate facility with the dedicated gaseous fuel system and related vehicle calibrations before shipment to the Special Vehicle Manufacturer (SVM), Fleet Customer or GM Dealer.

Both CNG and LPG vans will carry GM's limited new vehicle warranty including the 5-year/100,000 mile transferable GM powertrain limited warranty.

“We’ve made choosing a CNG or LPG van easier for our customers,” said Joyce Mattman, director of GM’s commercial products and specialty vehicles. “No other manufacturer offers a commercial CNG or LPG option that provides a solution with this level of support and availability.”

Leveraging the same Vortec 6.0L V8 with hardened, durable components, a dedicated LPG gaseous fuel system will be offered on 2011 model year cutaway vans to fleet and commercial customers. The cutaways are then configured into cube, delivery, and shuttle bus vans depending upon the customer’s final requirements.

Read More: http://www.gm.com/vehicles/innovation/news/2010/natural_gas_051810.jsp

2011 GMC Acadia SLE

2010-11-05T12:47:00.000-07:00

2011 GMC Acadia FWD 4dr SLE
Stock#: 110075
Exterior: Carbon Black Metallic
Interior: Ebony
Miles: New
Doors: 4
VIN: 1GKKRPED2BJ135162
3.6L V6 Cylinder Engine

M.S.R.P. $35,435

3 yr/36,000 Mile Ltd 'Bumper-to-Bumper'
Plus 5 yr/100,000 Mile Powertrain

GM adds compressed natural gas option to cargo vans aimed at fleet users

2010-10-21T08:45:00.000-07:00

Compressed natural gas is now a fuel option for General Motors Co.'s full-sized cargo vans.

The fully integrated CNG fuel system option uses GM's 6.0-liter V-8 engine and carries a $15,910 sticker price. It is available on the 2011 Chevrolet Express and GMC Savana.

The vehicles were unveiled today at the Green Fleet Conference in San Diego.

“Natural gas is an abundant and clean alternative fuel,” Beth Stanek, GM's director of federal environmental and energy regulatory affairs, said in a statement. “Based on today's CNG fuel rates and anticipated payback period, fleet investment in CNG can be quite affordable.”

Before the CNG application, the engine is modified to include hardened exhaust valves, and intake and exhaust valve seats for improved wear resistance and durability with gaseous fuel systems.

Read more: http://www.autonews.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20101019/OEM/101019844/1186#ixzz130b6Ou8Y

GMC Illinois

IIHS reveals most, least expensive cars to insure by type

2010-10-21T08:36:00.000-07:00

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) has released a rating of which cars have the highest and lowest insurance claims by category. In general, 2007-2009 SUVs and sports cars fared better than most other vehicle types in minimizing insurance losses.

The top 10 vehicles with the lowest overall insurance losses were the Chevrolet Corvette convertible, Mazda Miata, Chevrolet Corvette coupe, Volkswagen New Beetle convertible, Saturn Sky, Honda Pilot, Hyundai Veracruz, Honda CR-V, Subaru Outback, and Toyota 4Runner.

Among the vehicles with the lowest claims rate for medical payments other than sports cars are the Ford F-150, Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra 2500 pickups, Honda Pilot, Audi A6, and Buick Enclave.

The results are relative, expressed on a scale with 100 representing the average car. Unlike in past reports, IIHS says it adjusted, or standardized, the results to reduce distortions from non-vehicle factors such as operator age, gender, and marital status and vehicle population density. Collision and comprehensive results are also adjusted to standardize the deductible.

Read More: http://blogs.consumerreports.org/cars/2010/10/iihs-reveals-most-least-expensive-cars-to-insure-by-type-chevrolet-corvette-mitsubishi-lancer.html

GMC Dealers

2010 GMC Yukon 1500 SLT

2010-10-19T08:53:00.000-07:00

2010 GMC Yukon 4WD 4dr 1500 SLT
Stock#: 100259
Exterior: Pure Silver Metallic
Interior: Ebony
Miles: New
Doors: 4
VIN: 1GKUKCE05AR132016
5.3L 8 Cylinder Engine

M.S.R.P. $47,615

3 yr/36,000 Mile Ltd 'Bumper-to-Bumper'
Plus 5 yr/100,000 Mile Powertrain

GMC Dealers

2011 GMC Terrain SLE-1

2010-10-19T08:47:00.000-07:00

2011 GMC Terrain FWD 4dr SLE-1
Stock#: 110430
Exterior: Steel Blue Metallic
Interior: Jet Black
Miles: New
Doors: 4
VIN: 2CTALMEC9B6241897
2.4L 4 Cylinder Engine

M.S.R.P. $24,995

3 yr/36,000 Mile Ltd 'Bumper-to-Bumper'
Plus 5 yr/100,000 Mile Powertrain

GMC Illinois

2011 GMC Acadia SLE

2010-10-19T08:44:00.000-07:00

2011 GMC Sierra 2500HD 4WD Reg Cab 133.7

2010-10-12T09:09:00.000-07:00

2011 GMC Sierra 2500HD 4WD Reg Cab 133.7
Stock#: 110043
Exterior: Onyx Black
Interior: Ebony
Miles: New
Doors: 2
VIN: 1GT020CG4BF108723
6.0L 8 Cylinder Engine

M.S.R.P. $37,770

3 yr/36,000 Mile Ltd 'Bumper-to-Bumper'
Plus 5 yr/100,000 Mile Powertrain

Read More: GMC Illinois

GMC considers loaner cars to build brand awareness

2010-10-12T08:59:00.000-07:00

DETROIT (Bloomberg) -- General Motors Co.'s GMC and Buick, the fastest-growing brand in the U.S. this year, are considering a courtesy loaner program for customers getting warranty service on their vehicles to build awareness of the company's products.

GM may start the service in the “next couple weeks,” Brian Sweeney, vice president of sales for Buick and GMC, said in a telephone interview. The program would seek to get GMC Acadia owners into a Buick Enclave, for example, and build recognition of more GM vehicles, he said.

“We want to expose customers to other Buick and GMC products,” said Sweeney, who last week met with about 900 dealers that sell the two brands.

Dealers selling Buick need to change and meet the expectations customers have when shopping for a premium car, said Mike Bowsher, co-chairman of the national dealer council for Buick-GMC and president of Carl Black Automotive Group.

“We can't sell Buicks like we did Pontiac,” Bowsher, who runs dealerships in Georgia, Tennessee and Florida, said in a telephone interview. “A lot of us were old Pontiac dealers, and we now have to learn how to handle the Lexus, Ritz-Carlton, Cadillac, Mercedes kind of crowd.”

Read more: http://www.autonews.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20101011/RETAIL03/101019965/1147#ixzz129y4I4Zy

GMC Dealers

Review: 2011 GMC Sierra 3500HD SLE

2010-09-28T08:52:00.000-07:00

2010 has been a banner year for heavy-duty pickup truck fans, with revamped entries from all three U.S. automakers making their debut this year. Of those, the HD pickups from both Chevrolet and GMC received the most subtle exterior updates, but virtually everything under their skins is new, including a heavily revamped version of the company's 6.6-liter Duramax diesel V8.

When it comes to full-size pickup trucks, the old Burger King tag-line of "Have It Your Way" still rings true. Regardless of where your brand loyalty lies, these types of trucks are available with either gas or diesel engines; as regular, extended or crew-cab and with regular or long beds. All you have to do is figure out what you need the truck for and then check the appropriate boxes on the dealer's order sheet. Somewhere in the middle of this cacophony of choice lies the 2011 GMC Sierra 3500HD.

For 2011, the only notable visual changes to the heavy-duty Sierra are a slightly re-shaped front bumper with a larger air intake slot and a new grille. The grille on non-Denali Sierras like our tester receives a black, three-bar treatment with similar perforations to the chromed, four-bar version found on the premium truck. The rest of the sheetmetal is carried over from the GMT900HD styling that's been around since its debut in 2008, which is not necessarily a bad thing.

Read More: http://www.autoblog.com/2010/09/23/2011-gmc-sierra-3500hd-sle-review-road-test/

GMC Illinois

2011 GMC Sierra HD 2500 Denali 4×4 Diesel – Short Take Road Test

2010-08-31T08:49:00.000-07:00

The fancy-pants Sierra turns out to be a heavy-duty hot rod.

Numbers are an obsession in the auto industry. Corporate suits worry about build costs, profit margins, and sales volumes; sports-car fans spend more time watching horsepower counts, acceleration times, and top speeds. But heavy-duty truck enthusiasts live and die by numbers, perhaps more than any other segment of the automotive sphere.

To that end, the 2011 GMC Sierra heavy duty—along with its Chevrolet Silverado twin—sees a couple of its key numbers swell to 6635 and 21,700. Those are the highest payload and trailer-weight capacities of the GM HD trucks; the totals for the 2500 truck tested here are 2631 and 16,800 pounds, respectively. But when we finished putting this GMC Sierra Denali 2500 through its paces, it wasn’t these digits that had our spreadsheets smoking.

Quick for a Big Guy

Indeed, a thoroughly overhauled Duramax turbo-diesel V-8 supplies the first pair of staggering numbers: 397 and 765. Those are the 6.6-liter engine’s respective horsepower and torque counts, the former peaking at 3000 rpm and the latter at 1600. Those two figures delivered the digits that simply blew us away—7.3 and 15.7, as in stopwatch ticks to 60 mph and through the quarter-mile, the latter feat occurring at 89 mph. What we have here is a 7560-pound truck that’s quicker than the first Chevy Camaro we ever tested and capable of hauling most of one in the bed or towing four behind it on a trailer.

Read More: http://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/car/10q3/2011_gmc_sierra_hd_2500_denali_4x4_diesel-short_take_road_test

GMC Dealers

GMC Announce CNG and LPG Vans for Fleets

2010-08-20T09:02:00.000-07:00

DETROIT, Mich. (May 18, 2010) – Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) and Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) powered versions of the Chevrolet Express and GMC Savana full-size vans will be offered to fleet and commercial customers beginning later this year, General Motors Co. announced Monday.
The vans have specially designed engines for the gaseous fuels and come direct to the customer with the fully integrated and warranted dedicated gaseous fuel system in place.

“We’re listening to our fleet customers and dealers about offering options that help them achieve their business objectives”, said Brian Small, general manager of GM’s fleet and commercial operations. “The industry commitment to expand the CNG and LPG infrastructure in key fleet markets was an enabler to allowing us to introduce these options now.”

Going beyond the competition, GM’s proven Vortec 6.0L V8 engine receives hardened exhaust valves and intake and exhaust valve seats for improved wear resistance and durability for gaseous fuel systems. Along with dedicated gaseous fuel injection and fuel storage systems, both the CNG and LPG systems are fully integrated into the vehicle, and will meet EPA and CARB certification requirements, and be fully compliant with applicable motor vehicle safety standards.

The initial CNG offerings will be available on 2011 model year cargo vans and built at GM’s Wentzville assembly plant with the specialized Vortec engine installed. The vans are then completed at a separate facility with the dedicated gaseous fuel system and related vehicle calibrations before shipment to the Special Vehicle Manufacturer (SVM), Fleet Customer or GM Dealer.

Read More: http://www.gm.com/vehicles/innovation/news/2010/natural_gas_051810.jsp

GMC Chicago

More SUVs to join General Motors GMC Pickup Truck Division

2010-08-20T08:59:00.000-07:00

General Motors recently opened up (just a little) about its plans for the GMC truck/SUV division.

Future

The most speculative news surrounds the Granite, a proposed Scion xB hatch-box lookalike. If produced, the Granite would share the same platform as the front-wheel drive Chevrolet Cruze -- a significant departure from the maker of large pickups and SUVs. GM management has gone back and forth on deciding whether to produce a vehicle like the Granite; if it's given the green light, it likely won't hit the road until 2013, at the earliest.

Current lineup

GMC's Canyon pickup receives a stay of execution until 2012, when its production is scheduled to end. Although GM is working on a global replacement for the Chevrolet Colorado, there are currently no plans to sell that vehicle in the United States.

No big news for the hot-selling, midsize Terrain SUV, aside from a rumored Denali trim level. Set to be restyled in 2013, a possible hybrid is on the way one year later.

A Denali trim level of the Acadia was added recently, but the large SUV continues mostly unchanged for 2011. A more significant update to the lineup will come in 2012, when the 3.6-liter V-6 is replaced by a 3.0-liter V-6.

Although it was rumored that the next generation of the Yukon and Yukon XL would move to the Lambda platform (that underpins the Acadia), body-on-frame fans won the argument. The next-gen Yukon, due around 2014, will likely share components with the next Sierra pickup. By then, GM may rework its two-mode hybrid system for better efficiency in towing and hauling.

Read More: http://blogs.automotive.com/6673513/crossovers/more-suvs-to-join-general-motors-gmc-pickup-truck-division/index.html

Chicago GMC

GM crafts lineups for next spike at the pump

2010-08-09T13:44:00.000-07:00

General Motors Co. is planning for the return of $4-plus gasoline by introducing small or compact cars for each of its brands -- even GMC.

GM continues to predict gasoline prices will eventually rise to levels last seen in 2008, when consumers fled light trucks for smaller vehicles.

Also, federal fuel-efficiency standards will rise to a fleet average of 35.5 mpg in the 2016 model year, compared with 27.3 mpg in 2011.

2008 Cadillac CTS

2010-07-23T11:04:00.000-07:00

2008 Cadillac CTS
Stock#: K2764
Exterior: Black Cherry
Interior: Light Titanium
Miles: 21002
Doors: 4
VIN: 1G6DF577980137954
3.6L V6 Cylinder Engine
Gold: One Owner Vehicle
Silver: Locally Driven

Sale Price $26,988

Illinois GMC

2010 GMC Yukon

2010-07-23T11:00:00.000-07:00

2010 GMC Yukon 4WD 4dr 1500 SLT
Stock#: 100610
Exterior: Pure Silver Metallic
Interior: Ebony
Miles: New
Doors: 4
VIN: 1GKUKCE06AR225921
5.3L 8 Cylinder Engine

M.S.R.P. $50,905

GMC Chicago

2010 GMC Sierra 1500

2010-07-23T09:36:00.000-07:00

2010 GMC Sierra 1500 2WD Reg Cab 133.0
Stock#: 100744
Exterior: Summit White
Interior: Dark Titanium
Miles: New
Doors: 2
VIN: 1GTPCTEXXAZ255314
4.3L V6 Cylinder Engine

Chicago GMC

2010 GMC Sierra 1500

2010-06-21T13:08:00.000-07:00

2010 GMC Sierra 1500
M.S.R.P. $22,235
Stock#: 100767
Exterior: Pure Silver Metallic
Interior: Dark Titanium
Miles: New
Doors: 2
VIN: 1GTPCTEX1AZ255654
4.3L V6 Cylinder Engine

GMC Chicago

2010 GMC Acadia SLT1

2010-06-21T12:56:00.000-07:00

2010 GMC Acadia SLT1
M.S.R.P. $38,860
Stock#: 100612
Exterior: Gold Mist Metallic
Interior: Cashmere
Miles: New
Doors: 4
VIN: 1GKLRMED2AJ231763
3.6L V6 Cylinder Engine

Chicago GMC