2020 Chevy Bolt EV Fearlessly Takes on Car and Driver's Death Valley Range Test

During a range test of the 2020 Chevy Bolt, Car and Driver writer Jessica Lynn Walker remembered an old Hunter S. Thompson quote: “On some nights I still believe that a car with the gas needle on empty can run about fifty more miles if you have the right music very loud on the radio”. Fittingly enough, the testing team was driving through Death Valley, one of the lowest towns in existence in the Western Hemisphere. A pretty brutal and punishing landscape, this is one location where if you do run out of juice, it will make a for plausible and rather intense memory!

Aside from a new grille, the Bolt looks pretty much the same as last year's, with the biggest changes in the form of an updated DC fast charger and newly-revised battery pack. The liquid-cooled lithium-ion battery still sports 288 cells, but the accomplishment of more energy storage was due to the altering of the cell chemistry on board. Now the storage has risen from 60.0 kilowatt-hours to 66.0, bumping the all-important final EPA-rated range to 259 miles. It was now time to embark on the journey, keeping in mind as all of us here at O'Rielly Chevy of Tucson would, that running the air conditioner CAN affect the outcome of a range test!

At about 51 miles in, the troup arrived at the first major climb, near the rustic town of Stovepipe Wells. Then began the gradual rise to Towne Pass, situated right at around 4956 feet. The gang realized here that going the speed limit helps, almost a safeguard to not be reckless during an era where so many choose to be while running behind. After traversing 20 miles uphill, 84 miles of range has been used up, but a steep 9 percent grade on the way down should help with the next 10 miles.

When they set the cruise control 5 miles below the speed limit, the Bolt did a great job with regenerating energy. During nine miles of a downhill coast, they got back an indicated 30 miles of range. In conditions that are perfectly optimal, the Bolt is capable of recouping energy at 70 kilowatts, a little less than half the maximum discharge of 160 kilowatts. 8374 feet above sea level is Mount Whitney, where the gang was treated to views of massive pines, steep granite, and waterfalls covered in surreal ice for the season.

The Bolt had then made the 134-mile journey to the turnaround point, and 75 miles left is what the range display now stated. The testing group descended into Death Valley right as the sun set, and a subterranean Martian glow was all over the land. They made it in one piece and had exceeded the EPA-estimated range by 9 miles, with 33 miles left to spare. If you're planning a road trip of your own, the myChevrolet Mobile App with Energy Assist puts to use key information such as the current charge of the vehicle, weather conditions, and nearest charging stations to find the most sensible route for you!

Chevy Equinox Deemed by Forbes as Finish-Line Achiever in Style, Functionality, and Price

The seasonal countdown is truly here now at O'Rielly Chevy of Tucson, and we are coming up “true decision” time for gift-buying! We know full well that a new SUV is not just a tiny little stocking-stuffer but sure is appropriate for someone who has just started a family or moved up the ladder at work. Dale Buss of Forbes Magazine proclaimed in his review of the Chevy Equinox this week that the hit SUV “addresses a tempting sweet spot for Americans at the intersection of style, functionality, and price”, and we couldn't agree more.

With the latest Equinox version that has been around since the 2018 model year, the SUV is now positioned snugly between the Trax subcompact and recently revamped Chevy Traverse 3-row SUV. Sporting both a new exterior and interior, the Equinox has now shed more than 400 pounds compared to the second-generation model that was on sale from 2010 to 2017. At 26 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway, this is a much better-than-average fuel economy, which in every instance makes a car ideal as a daily driver.

Engine options are the base 170-horsepower, 1.5-liter turbocharged engine, and the more powerful 252-horsepower, 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder that provides more responsive acceleration and is the more popular option. The Forbes team attested that the Equinox proves to be very sure-footed even on very winding roads, and ultimately gives the driver a high confidence level in every routine situation. Infotainment features have seen themselves moving up the list in terms of what consumers want: staying informed and entertained comes in the form of many options for 2020. Standard infotainment features include a 7-inch touch screen, a six-speaker audio system, two USB ports, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, Bluetooth, and a Wi-Fi hot spot.

Also available are options to upgrade to the larger 8-inch touch screen, satellite radio, a Bose audio system, and wireless device charging. The Equinox was always made to be a vehicle that anyone on a budget was going to rank highly, but still be very satisfied with. Make sure when you see us here for a holiday visit that you check out the offerings of the Equinox Premier Trim: this is where you get to enjoy all-wheel-drive, ventilated front seats and adaptive cruise control.

Highlights for the 2021 Equinox include an all-new front-end, which will see some similarities with the Blazer and Trailblazer crossovers and is also expected to boast a brand new two-tiered headlamp design. One of the best things we could have heard in the form of a holiday treat was that rumors of a very high-performance Equinox variant have been making the rounds on the internet, although we just need a bit more solid evidence to confirm development!

Motor Trend Provides 2021 Suburban First Look: Improved Suspension, More Space

The very massive 3-row SUV that has been an active nameplate for 85 years and counting is going to see major improvements for the 2021 model year, and Motor Trend took a close-up look this week at just how awesome and commanding it will be! It will go on sale next spring right here at O'Rielly Chevy of Tucson and will be riding on the same new architecture as the Silverado 1500 and Silverado HD pickups, as well as the 2021 Chevy Tahoe.

Vice president of global product programs Tim Herrick claimed that this is the biggest product program ever completed and that it was unprecedented in size, scope, and amount of capital leveraged regarding it. At any one time 10,000 people working on the architecture, intending to make sure each trim level really differentiated from the others, and that true quality rang through. The 134.1 – inch wheelbase is 4.1 inches longer than on the outgoing model, and the overall length is up 1.3 inches to a current 225.7 inches. This is also the first time that the Suburban gets a multilink independent rear suspension, and when paired with the longer wheelbase, creating a true packaging masterpiece.

Cargo room grows by 1.8 cubic feet behind the third row, and at the push of a button, the second and third-row seats flatten. This boosts the maximum cargo room to 144.7 feet, an expansion of 23 feet more than the outgoing model. The Magnetic Ride Control feature is still present, and the damping system is now standard on Premier and High Country, as well as an option on Z71. Air Ride offers the means of leveling a huge load at all four corners and can make adjustments to the vehicle height by 4.0 inches.

Engine options are both V8s: the 355 hp, 383 lb-ft 5.3-liter, and the 420 hp, 460 lb-ft 6.2-liter, and the active fuel management system is now replaced by the more efficient Dynamic Fuel Management. With the larger size and weight of the new Suburban, having this on deck helps with keeping fuel economy in check, with the most fuel-efficient option being the new Duramax 3.0-liter I-6 turbodiesel available on all models but the Z71. It generates 277 hp, and 460 lb-ft of torque.

This is the only full-size SUV in the nation with a diesel option, and these SUVs will be built in Arlington Texas, where there is a brand-new paint shop and body shop to accommodate the construction. One of the coolest features in existence for long-haul travelers is seen from the back seat: there are available 12.6-inch screens on the backs of the two front seats that allow for shared content, or each passenger choosing their own entertainment.

2021 Silverado HD's Amazing Tech Close-Up Via Carbuzz

The all-new 2020 Chevy Silverado HD was unveiled earlier this year with stunning towing and torque figures, and even more exciting improvements are taking place for the coming year's model! Inside sources have told GM Authority that these updates will focus on improved technology that aids with the tough daily duties facing the heavy-duty variant. One of the main improvements will be updates for the software and trailering camera systems, which also saw upgrades this year.

There are now 15 unique camera views that monitor angles such as ahead of the pickup, behind the bed, around the hitch, inside the bed, and behind the trailer. This holiday season here at O'Rielly Chevy of Tucson we have provided numerous test drives of the Silverado already, as scores of truck lovers are coming through the door getting ready to make a final decision regarding purchase. The 2021 Silverado is going to also see a revamped center console, bigger infotainment screen, as well as improved fit and finish. As the holiday trees and lights are revealed here in Tucson and nationwide, it is a fantastic time to get up to speed on what the coming model of America's best and most durable truck will offer up!

There have been so many exciting releases and other reasons to be loaded with anticipation this holiday season, just as anyone wondering what is wrapped under the tree for them would have! The 2019 SEMA Show saw the unveiling of the Silverado HD Carhartt Special Edition, another awesome choice for 2021. Based on the Silverado 2500 LTZ, we are hoping that it will sport a beefy V-8 as the power source. We are incredibly proud of the elaborate camera system that is already on board the Silverado; just a decade ago truck owners would have been amazed if they knew just how much easier their towing and hauling life was going to get with the ability to monitor what's happening at all times.

Even though we know we are cranking out the best and most durable truck line in the business, there's always room for improvement, and some critics during 2019 told us what they thought would be ideal. A bigger touch screen, less empty space around the dashboard, and the improvements to the finish was at the top of the list. In response, there will now most likely be the option to upgrade to a 12-inch screen, along with a few more interior storage compartments. We know full well that a panoramic sunroof is high on the wish list of many, and we just don't have any confirmation regarding that: we'll keep you posted right here on the blog about anything new that comes up concerning America's hardest-working truck line coming for 2021!

Hotcars.com Stacks the Camaro up Against the Corvette

The Hotcars.com staff were definitely correct when they asserted on their blog this past week that anyone anywhere who loves cars is familiar with Chevy's two greats: the Camaro and the Corvette. The pair differs greatly from each other in terms of appearance, performance, and character, as well as their target audience. Here are some fine points about both that will help anyone on their way to see us at O'Rielly Chevy of Tucson for the holidays to make their decision.

The Idea: The Corvette , by all means, an all and out sports car: with clean lines, a low-riding nose, and other qualities that have it constantly hugging the road. Those who want the Corvette are true fans of the American sports car and are consumed with a need for speed. The Camaro has always been a muscle car, and while eye-popping and masculine, it does not have some of the “topped out” sensations that a 'Vette offers.

Current Models: During 66 years of production, there has never been a mid-engined Corvette,  and so this year's particular model is off-the-charts different and new. It has the best balance and road handling that it ever has, and plenty of added space as well. The current model Camaro is a conventional front-engined build with a muscular front and grille and is going to wow fans that love consistency and a slightly retro feel.

The Power: The base 2020 Camaro is powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter, cranking out 275 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. This maxes out at all the way upwards of 650 horsepower dependent on trim level, assuring that the Camaro has zero similarities to a snail. Inside this year's Corvette is the 6.2-liter V8 that generates 490 horsepower and 465 lb-ft of torque, but it's not always JUST about power: this is the very first Corvette that can do 0 to 60 mph in a flat 2.9 seconds! 

The Competition: The closest rivals to the Corvette come in the forms of the Acura NSX, Audi R8, Nissan GT – R, and the Porsche 911. None of these cars are American, and they are all far pricier. The Camaro is a solid rival for the Ford Mustang and the Dodge Challenger, the case of the Detroit Three itself. All of these are tied much closer together in the price range factor, and you simply have to hash out which features do and don't add up for your needs.

Tech Features: It's safe to say for this year that the Corvette leads the way as far as tech innovations. Aside from the first in the mid-engined department, there's a self-raising nose that can be programmed by GPS, and can store 1,000 locations. If you've narrowed everything down to the point where you know the Camaro is your final choice, the Available Technology Package includes the Chevy infotainment system with an 8-inch diagonal color touchscreen and Bose premium audio system.

The Racing: The Camaro is the winner of the 1971 and 1973 Australian Touring Car Championships, and was also featured as the official car of the International Race of Champions. The Camaro ZL2 has nabbed numerous Daytona 500 titles, and next year will be Chevy's racer for the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup. The Corvette has been a Le Mans winner as well as at the 24 Hours of Daytona – plus it has been the Indianapolis pace car 15 times. Both of these cars are known for victory on the track: we feel the Camaro's Daytona 500 Titles may slightly nudge it to the lead in this department, but as with anything, it can come down to personal preference when it's all said and done!

Chevy Suburban's 85-Year Nameplate Celebrated With Automobile Gallery Feature

The very first Suburban ever rolled off the assembly line in 1935, during the year that the Hoover Dam was built and the first color movies ever were shown on the big screen. Most utility vehicles at the time were known as “Sedan deliveries”, and incorporated a wagon body on a car platform. The Suburban held on to the wagon body idea but employed a heavier-duty commercial truck chassis that added a sense of rugged capability.

After World War II was when the Suburban began to take off with non-commercial buyers, and more passenger-friendly versions became common. It was another few decades  before the Suburban gradually changed into the shape you see here at O'Rielly Chevy of Tucson today. The cargo-focused versions of the Suburban gradually died off, and the popularity of the vehicle skyrocketed during the late 1980s. The minivan was losing popularity, and those moving to suburbia in droves were loving the Suburban's practicality, as well as cool appearance.

This gallery from Automobile blog begins with an image of the 1992 model, and you can immediately tell what a difference there is between one from this era on up to 2006: the Suburban is a vehicle that became much sturdier and stronger during the mid 2000's. The 2007 Chevy Suburban LTZ was when the front end finally became so distinct you couldn't miss it, almost akin to a Mako shark making its way through the water! There's one shot in the gallery of a 2018 Suburban that really clarifies what a perfect fit it is for a fire rescue vehicle: it appears as if it could make its way through just about anything. The model from 1935 in this gallery is a show-stealer: one of the only similarities it bears to anything current is the extra row of seating, but it still possesses the trademark Chevy charm.

The 1949 model has a very abrupt slope on all rooflines, and looks a bit like a milk jug on its side! If we had to pick a favorite from the past it would most likely be the 1965 Chevy Suburban C10: It is just so oversized, has such a wagoneer vibe, and oozes the true sense of off-road readiness that only a vehicle from the 1960s can. When equipped with the available front bench seat, the current Suburban can hold up to nine passengers and has plenty of room behind its third-row seat for luggage. The base engine is a 5.3-liter V8, cranking out 355 horsepower and 383 lb-ft of torque. 

Optional with the RST Package is a 6.2-liter V8 that offers up 420 hp, and 460 lb-ft of torque, mated to a 10-speed automatic. Don't forget to check out the various features in trim level when you pay us a visit: opting for the top-of-the-line Premier adds magnetic ride control, keyless entry and push-button start, front and rear park assist, power-folding outside mirrors, 20-inch polished aluminum wheels, HID headlights, fog lights, perforated leather seating, power-release second-row seats, heated steering wheel, and blind-spot monitoring with lane-change alert!

Autoblog.com features 450-Horsepower Hot Rod Derived From Farm Truck

When any car manufacturer rummages through it's past and present parts bins to work on a new creation, the results are almost always awesome. Some of the combinations we have seen lately have been some of the most inventive ever, and when it's our beloved Chevy brand, we know the outcome will be amazing. The E-10 is an electric hot rod featured in Autoblog this past week, derived from a 1962 C-10 pickup.

The beginning frame is a bit like a modern-day Silverado 1500, where Chevy's concept-building team began by replacing the gas-powered drivetrain with parts from the Bolt. While full technical details have been kept amply secret, the spec sheet has on the list a double stack of electric crate motors that derive power from two 60-kilowatt battery packs. The power flows to the rear wheels via a 4-speed automatic transmission and the swap to electric bumps the C-10's output to 450 horsepower. The 0 to 60 mph drive time is right around 5 seconds, and the quarter-mile time resides in the high 13-second range. All of us here at O'Rielly Chevy of Tucson are not quite sure what the actual driving range is after a charge for this model, but the Bolt now is up to around 259 miles.

There is one characteristic of this creation that we simply couldn't love more: since noise is such a big part of the hot-rodding experience, the E-10 comes with a sound simulator on board. Included presets are an LS7 Z28 with track tuning, an all-around generic V8, or what Chevy now dubs as “futuristic” sound. But if need be, it can actually do burnouts in complete silence, which some still understandably see as sacreligious. This E-10 concept builds on the excitement and momentum that was seen by last year's eCOPO, pushing the envelope of the “crate” electric propulsion system further.

Just a few years ago, there were no solid examples of how hot rodders will still get to participate in their favorite pastime during the oncoming electric era. We love the pictures of this creation, which looks amazing in orange. The SEMA event was from October 30 – Nov 2 this year in sunny Las Vegas, and there were plenty of other awesome things for viewers to feast their eyes on such as the “Green Hornet” Mustang and 1958 Plymouth Fury “Christine” tribute. We will keep you posted here on the blog as the world of electrification begins its unified journey with Chevy models, and how the landscape of cars is changing for the future!

Team-up With Carhartt To Soon Yield Special-Edition Chevy Pickup

All of us here at O'Rielly Chevy of Tucson get asked by customers very frequently about show trucks: with off-road and urban-styled variants coming out of the gate and onto the lot so fast, there's a lot to love for every taste. It has now been announced that Chevy is introducing a Carhartt Special Edition of the Silverado HD pickup in 2020 after the response has been so positive to a series of show trucks the two have already completed together in recent years. Founded in 1889, Carhartt began as a unique work-wear manufacturer for railroad workers and has sprouted successfully from there.

Based on the 2500 LTZ crew cab, this new model comes equipped with the Z51 off-road package and will be offered only in black while featuring Carhartt gold stripes logos. The black leather upholstery is accented with inserts that draw inspiration from Carhartt Brown signature jackets, and the brand's logo is well-placed into a rollup bed cover. One reason the mashup between these two brands is so special is that Carhartt has long been recognized as a unit that makes accessories so durable you can take them to any remote and rugged corner of the globe.

If you are looking for the coolest Christmas presents ever, you can look here on their site for some of the most rugged and unique wallets and belts out there. Or, you can come straight down to our showroom and test-drive America's favorite truck, the Silverado 1500. One of our bestselling models, it is the base that special editions such as this one with Carhartt begin with and brandishes responsive handling with high dependability on the daily. When you shop for the upcoming holidays at our dealership, you can save up to thousands of dollars on our gigantic array of pre-owned cars, trucks, and SUVs.

The gift of reliable transportation is one that provides not only peace of mind, but the ability for a student or growing family to be productive and punctual. Just as much as we love to watch the YouTube videos showing veterans coming back to surprise their families for the holidays, we love to imagine the smile on a gift recipient's face when they see brand-new wheels at their disposal! We will keep our ears to the ground to check on the development of further partnership truck models such as this one, and have been astounded in every way to watch the progression of the full-size truck as it reached the lofty heights it now resides at today!

New Atlas Praises 2019 Chevy Blazer For “Beauty, Confidence, and Upscale Feel”

As various reports and news blurbs confirmed that the Blazer was indeed coming back last year, all of us here at O'Rielly Chevy of Tucson instantly became excited. Styling cues were highly reminiscent of the Camaro, and as soon as it hit the showrooms, the new Blazer gained heaps of attention. This is not the Blazer of the 1990s, as midsize crossovers are admittedly where much of the need is for the daily driver, and it is situated in between the smaller Equinox and larger Traverse.

Seasoned auto writer Aaron Turpen from New Atlas claimed that the stately drive quality, nice ride, and great infotainment system were qualities that immediately swayed him to give the Blazer very high marks. The base model is the “L”, the next trim level up is the Blazer, then you move up to the RS and Premier. The engine choices are the 2.5-liter 4-cylinder that cranks out 193 horsepower and 188 lb-ft of torque, while higher trim levels see a 3.6-liter 6-cylinder engine that cranks out 305 horsepower and 269 lb-ft of torque. This is where the all-wheel drive becomes an option as well, while the nine-speed automatic stays.

The New Atlas crew drove the 2019 Blazer in the top-line Premier package, which includes forward-collision warning with pedestrian detection and adaptive cruise control. The 3.6-liter engine offered up spry and aggressive performance, and the handling and drive quality were deemed as excellent. Lovers of tech will greatly appreciate the Blazer's four USB ports and excellent infotainment system, which Aaron immediately claimed was one of the best in the business. Response to touch is very quick, and comes with high-end extras like a 4G Wi-Fi hotspot as well as Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.

With the V6 and towing equipment installed, the Blazer can pull a very impressive 4,500 lbs, and the overall report after a few lengthy tests drives was that the Blazer is a good, comfortable drive with a satisfying interior and great daily dynamic. Coming for 2020, there will be a turbocharged 4-cylinder option, and we hope that we see you here this fall for a test drive to experience the Blazer for yourself!

Remembering back through the years, one of our favorite models of all time was the S-10 Blazer in 1982: offered in a two-door body style, we affectionately referred to them as the “drummer's choice”: many musicians loved the incredibly useful blend of car and truck, as well as storage space for the percussionist's arsenal. We will share with you more great reviews and test drive experiences with the Blazer as they continue to move through our newswire pipeline, and as excited professionals bestow the highest of rankings on this revitalized namesake and practical vehicle for a growing family or business!

Off-Road Enthusiast's Foresight: Chevy Silverado ZRX Spy Shots Via GM Authority

As the fall season has been upon us here for a month or so at O'Rielly Chevy of Tucson, it has been evident that the customers are interacting with are telling us just how much they love off-road trucks. The larger-sized Silverado refuses to be left out of the party, and a ZRX variant is now underway. The staff on duty at GM Authority came up with some of the very first spy shots here to prove it, with incredibly trail-ready tires and looking like it could climb boulders at the drop of a hat.

Back in August, GM Authority was also on the scene to report a fresh trademark filing for the ZRX name, both in the U.S. And Canada. Then the next month it was reported that the ZRX name would be given to this new Silverado slated to fit in the lineup above the Trail Boss. These spy shots seem to show an early development model, based on the LT Trail Boss model. This can be seen by checking out the designations on the bed and tailgate, as well as the overall stance and appearance.

The front bumper is much shorter than on any other Silverado to come before it, and it is minus the fog lights found on the LT Trail Boss. This is an element that will help with approach angle, and a metal bar you can spot protruding from said bumper may be linked to upgraded suspension components needed underneath. The rear end looks pretty similar to the current LT Trail Boss, and this may change as development progresses. As was outlined in their full report, the ZRX is supposed to offer a large suspension setup graced with DSSV dampers from MultiMatic, front and  rear electronic lockers, and new bumpers to improve pickup and departure angles.

Powertrains are not at this time expected to see an upgrade, as the source has been said to be the naturally-aspirated 6.2-LiterV8 L87 EcoTec3 engine. The brand-new GM 10-speed automatic transmission will be responsible for shifting duties, and it is a possibility that the new ZRX may offer the turbodiesel 3.0-Liter LM2 inline-six Duramax engine.

What really excites us is that this is ultimately the mean and off-road-ready truck slated to go up against the Ford F-150 Raptor, and when this vehicle was spotted, the driver peeled out faster than any the team had seen in quite some time. Quite clearly, this model was not meant to easily meet the public eye so soon. We will keep you posted here on the blog and let you know when we receive more information about this coming go-anywhere Goliath in the making!

2020 Chevy Corvette Motor Authority First Drive Review Highlights Vehicle that “Fantastically Pushes the Envelope”

The Motor Authority testing staff were situated on the outskirts of Ann Arbor, Michigan last week on a crisp fall day on an open road with no one else around. The fantastic and feature-rich vehicle they were getting ready to drive was one that we have been plenty excited about for months here at O'Rielly Chevy of Tucson: the brand new 2020 mid-engined Chevy Corvette. Mike Hurley is the vehicle dynamics engineer who is along for the ride and gleefully tells driver Kirk Bell to move the mode selector dial to “Track” and engage the Performance Traction Management System before the run.

 

With his left foot on the brake, he expertly pinned the throttle and the 495-horsepower LT2 6.2-liter V-8 revved on up to 3,500 rpm and stayed there for a brief and purgatorial moment. He then gripped the square steering wheel “for dear life” as the 305-mm wide Michelin Pilot Sport 45 rear tires slipped maybe a quarter turn, and the new 'Vette took off brandishing a power level and efficiency that no factory Corvette has ever possessed. As he lurched forward he documents zero pause in power between gears and agrees wholeheartedly that 0-60 mph probably flies by in 3.0 seconds or less.

The perpendicular force that is exerted between the car and the road is now distributed so that 60 percent of the weight is on the rear tires on the new model, the car can exert more normal force on the road with its drive axle capabilities and quicker acceleration. Recognizing the difficulty that exists in making a car that can handle the road as well as track, Mike claimed that both jobs are handled with ease. The V-8's noisy rumble is not quite as loud as the C7s if you are just cruising around the neighborhood, but if you throw the car in Track mode, you get the enjoyment of the orchestral bellow.

Here it is conveyed that the new Corvette steers with true purpose and always feels direct, and the interior takes a high-quality leap forward from the C7's. The gang here had the 3LT package that adds a 14-speaker Bose audio system, front and rear vision cameras, a head-up display, top-line heated and cooled GT2 bucket seats, a heated steering wheel, wireless phone charging, and the Chevy Performance Data Recorder that records video and reports all sorts of juicy vital stats.

Instead of sitting so low with a high hood and the scoop blocking the view like the ZR1, the driver now looks down the fender line out of a windshield that is much more open. As the crew winded down after their Michigan drive, what they yearned for most was some time of a California canyon road: It is so very exciting that an American legend changed so much for the better in the form of the brand-new C8, and there will be many more tales of taking it down the road for a wildly high-octane spin to come!

Chevy Silverado 1500 Departs to Laughlin Classic Desert Racing Series

With a variety of off-road races taking place on some of the toughest terrain in the nation, the U.S. Best in the Desert series offers up a long line of endlessly exciting events. The action takes place from October 10-13, when ATVs, trucks, and cars all forge their way on a 17-mile loop. Best in the Desert is now proud to have over 35 years of storied history within the racing community to its name. Legendary racing icon Casey Folks founded the series in 1984 and it soon grew to include 4-wheel vehicles and was recognized by the early 2000s as the world's premier off-road racing series.

Our beloved Chevy Silverado truck followed the Colorado ZR2 into the Best in the Desert Racing Series that kicked off at the Laughlin Desert Classic on the 10^th. The Silverado race truck that will brave the distance is based off an LT Trail Boss truck and is set to compete in Desert's 1200 Stock class. It will be backed for power by the 6.2-liter V-8 that's good for 420 horsepower and paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. To be properly prepared for the Baja-style challenge, the race truck sports a long-travel suspension, front and rear shocks, and set of prototype high-capacity Multimatic Dynamic Suspensions Spool Valve off-road dampers.

Both The Colorado ZR2 and the Silverado scheduled to be driven by Frank D'Angelo can be spotted at the Tropicana Laughlin Hotel and Casino in Nevada. There are currently plans underway to race both trucks during 2020, and it's pretty safe to assume that we'll see these two up close and personal at SEMA in November. When it first began the Best in the Desert consisted of two events: the World Championship Hare and Hound and the Las Vegas 300.

In 1987, it was established as an organization with a full series featuring three races: the World Championship Hare and Hound, Las Vegas 300, and US Hare Scrambles Championship. During 1989 the series grew even further as it then saw the addition of the Mesquite Gran Prix. As ATV popularity grew nationwide, the Best in the Desert introduced 4-wheel vehicles with the Inaugural Vegas to Reno event. Between 1997 and 1999 the series began to get rid of motorcycle-only events, and introduced the 7-day “Race into the Millennium” during 2000.

5 years ago the various partnerships and success grew once again when Mad Media came on board to the series and it now includes the UTV World Championship. All of us here at O'Rielly Chevy of Tucson are going to be glued to our web browsers to see how these two durable and off-road-ready trucks fare during this test, and hope that everyone has fun watching this true test of outdoor driving prowess!

2020 Corvette C8 Convertible Will Receive First-Ever Power Hard-Top

Ever since the C8 Corvette was formally introduced to the world in a large California airline hangar, journalists and enthusiasts all over have been able to enjoy a multitude of firsts. The first mid-engined Corvette has wowed people worldwide with its power potential, styling accents, and very sensible pricing. For the first time since 1953, the convertible model's  folding lid does not consist of cloth or vinyl. Every model until now has offered a convertible variant with roof material on the softer side.

The 2020 C8 Corvette's drop-top utilizes the first power-folding hardtop, which consists of two panels that can retract into a handy cubby behind the seats right on top of the engine. The top weighs in at just 80 pounds heavier than the standard coupe, and the panel under the folding roof has two exotic-looking peaks that flow behind each passenger's headrest into the tail. You can specify the roof with matching body color paint, or dark gray Carbon Flash. Chevy's thorough and precise engineers traded the old front-engine Corvette's hydraulic roof actuators for six electrical actuators, which are known for their reliability.

The new top's design allows for independent operation of the glass rear window, so it can be lowered while the roof stays up. The rear window can be raised to deflect wind when the top is down, which will also reduce wind presence in the cabin. Moving it down takes 16 seconds, and you can even do it with the car traveling up to 30 mph. There is also heat shielding around that cubby so the top doesn't roast while being stored, and special attention was given to not have the top contribute heavily to negative drag. The C8 convertible posts the same coefficient of drag as the coupe with the top raised, and the high-performance Z51 trim sports the same rear spoiler as the coupe.

We hope you come to visit us right here at O'Rielly Chevy of Tucson to inquire about the new C8: the mid-engine generation starts with the 2020 stingray. The coupe is powered by a Mid-Engine 6.2-liter Small Block LT2 V8 and goes from 0 to 60 in UNDER 3 seconds. This is the vehicle that completely fulfills the dream of Zora Arkus-Duntov, and one of the first traits drivers notice off the bat is the difference in handling: having the engine and transaxle be so low in the car is a great help. The steering wheel is on the small side, and if you're over six feet tall, you won't have much problem moving around while learning the ins and outs of this mid-engined and highly-awaited creation!

Chevy Silverado Enjoys Embracing the Dark Side With New Rally and Midnight Editions

This year at the State Fair of Texas, our beloved Bowtie brand introduced the 2020 Silverado Midnight and Rally special editions. Both of these models complete the job well of providing the perfect mix of trim to allow for the perfect sense of customization and were developed after listening closely to consumers about the extra doses of character that they wanted most in the Silverado. The Midnight Edition boasts a two-inch suspension lift, and some Z71 goodies such as Ranch mono-tube shocks, automatic locking rear differential, skid plates, and 18-inch painted wheels with Goodyear Duratrac off-road tires.

It also adds jet black pieces for the grille, bumpers, exhaust tips, side steps, and badges, with the well-contrasted addition of red tow hooks injecting a unique additive of flavor. The Midnight Edition is available on the LT Trail Boss and Custom Trail Boss trims, with the LT Trail Boss version seeing the power source of the 6.2-liter V8. It's paired to a 10-speed automatic and haplessly cranks out 420 horsepower along with 460 lb-ft of torque. The Custom Trail Boss is available with this powertrain or a 5.3-liter V8 paired to a six-speed automatic.

The Silverado Rally Edition is available in Black, Red Hot, Silver Ice Metallic, and Summit White exterior colors. The body wears a body-color grille on top of black stripes along the hood and tailgate. You get black elements for the exhaust tips, side steps, and badges, and the Custom trim level Special Edition is now rolling on 20-inch black wheels while the RST grade sits on 22-inch wheels. Orders can be placed through us right here at O'Rielly Chevy of Tucson beginning in October, and deliveries should begin before the end of this year.

Those out there who are already wild about trucks have tons of love for the Z71 Off-Road package, which makes signing up for the Midnight special edition a no-brainer. Right here in Arizona, we have a multitude of terrain that is begging for a truck with a bit of extra clearance and suspension to tackle boulder-climbing and tree roots that command conquering ability. You'll be thrilled every single time you head off the highway into no man's land, and pleased with the level of performance and agility. 

The Rally Edition is a well-crafted example of a very capable and equipped workhorse with slightly more city-derived vibes at the core. We fully believe that it is the well-armed weapon to do battle against the Ram's new fleet that has enjoyed high marks for interior noise reduction and overall luxury, and possesses the perfect swagger to provide a great urban option. You won't have to worry about being noticed immediately while headed on your way, as the stature of the Silverado is commanding, show-stealing, and constantly haul-ready!

2019 Chevy Blazer Snags Coveted Spot on Wards 10 Best UX List For Dominance in Tech Features

The NewsWheel.com staff was on duty last week working hard on any updates in the automotive field, the trait they are known best for! They ran across the opportunity to dole out praise for the 2019 Chevy Blazer, which recently won a well-deserved spot on the 2019 Wards Best UX List. Helpful driver-assist features and a very easy-to-use infotainment system were two of the items that helped the Blazer fare so well after WardsAuto editors scrutinized 23 vehicles and chose the 10 that offered the user-friendliest tech features.

Display screens, voice control, smartphone integration, navigation, and active-safety equipment are elements that are evaluated as part of the judging process. The editors drive the participating vehicles on their everyday commutes to get a sense of how their features perform in the most common of scenarios. They look closely at buttons and switches and check out useful features such as wireless smartphone pairing and charging ports. When it came to the infotainment system, the easy-to-see high positioning of its 8-inch high-definition touch screen, built-in shopping app, and reliable OnStar Wi-Fi also helped the team with their final decision.

Features such as forward automatic braking, lane-keeping assist, and forward collision alert are other qualities that aided in the Blazer's success regarding the Wards list. Lane-keep assist is one of our favorites: it puts to use forward-facing cameras that monitor the lane lines around your vehicle and provide various warnings to alert the driver when you are quickly approaching lane markings. We had always been fans of the Blazer's large HVAC vents, which saw a lot of influence from our beloved Camaro's styling, and can be easily adjusted to change temperature and fan speed: this was another unique feature that the editors cozied up to quickly.

We hope you visit us here at O'Rielly Chevy of Tucson this fall to experience the first press of the throttle utilizing the 3.6-liter V6 engine that's available on the Blazer and standard with RS and Premier trims. Shifting is accomplished with a 9-speed automatic and brandishing a wide range of interior and exterior options, there's there to be the Blazer that ideally suits your unique personal taste. Reliability is important to midsize SUV buyers with a J.D. Powers study showing that 97% agree that it is the first consideration during their vehicle choice. With accents lightly borrowed from the muscle car department and a high level of accolade and award such as this latest accomplishment, the Blazer proves to be an exciting resurrection of an all-time favorite, and example of the best our brand has to offer!

Cavalier's Long-Awaited Return to Crossover Status: The Drive Weighs in

The Cavalier has now been discontinued for 14 years and enjoyed its existence as a solid choice for students, young professionals, and others as an economical and sensible daily driver. It still enjoys its presence in China and Mexico in the form of a subcompact sedan that is situated below the Cruze. All of us here at O'Rielly Chevy of Tucson noticed a blog online from the staff of The Drive last week depicting a product leak, suggesting that the Cavalier will make its way back to the lot during 2020 as a new crossover SUV.

For a very brief time on Monday, Chevy's U.S. Media site had an image in the galleries section of a small crossover that was previously unseen labeled “2020 Chevrolet Cavalier”. The styling cues and design type were very similar to what is found on the Equinox and Trax, even though it's tough to conclude with the very low-resolution picture. The link directed the user to a blank page with an “MX” URL, meaning the new crossover may see its official introduction in Mexico. Just a day or so later, the photo happened to be removed.

It is not too hard to tell the Cavalier's relative size, but it appears similar in dimensions to the compact Chevy Trax. In China, the Cavalier sedan derives power from a 1.5-liter I-4 engine and is available with a 5-speed manual or 6-speed automatic. If the significant move to a crossover platform took place, we think there would likely be some powertrain updates also.

The Cavalier first went on sale in May 1981 as a front-wheel-drive model with 2 and 4 door sedan, hatchback, and station wagon body types. 1983 models offered throttle body fuel injection and a V6 engine offered up more in the power department a year later. For 1989 models the steering column was completely redesigned, now able to drastically reduce injuries during a collision by bending to conform to the driver's chest shape.

When one fondly remembers the Cavaliers seen on the road most often, the 1991 model saw the extensive restyling that involved a new hood, bumpers, headlights, taillights, wheel covers, and a redesigned interior. The Z24 model gained the options for a height-adjustable driver's seat and a CD player, and the convertible was brought back mid-year in the RS trim only with the V6 engine as standard. From 1995-1999, the Cavalier took a few design cues from the 4^th generation Chevy Camaro, and by 1997 was the best selling car within the entire GM lineup. We will keep you posted right here on the blog about any developments regarding release and production, and until then we will wait and see if rumors of the resurrection pan out! 

Business Insider Covers Chevy Corvette's Evolution From Sports Car to Super Car

Starting out by branding the Corvette as one of the most recognizable American sports cars and heralded scene stealers in the history of movies, Daniel Gessner of Business Insider provided a great feature last week about its evolution. He begins his close-up look by acknowledging how the Z06 and ZR1 really cranked up the horsepower in their supercharged versions, but that at that point the car had maybe not quite yet graduated into the same class as the high-priced and high-speed cars like Lamborghini and Ferrari.

For the 2020 model, that gap was closed with one very integral and necessary design change, and it resulted in the creation of a car that has the ability to carry its weight in the biggest leagues. Since its introduction in 1953, the Corvette has undergone many changes, during a well thought-through transformation from a street cruiser into a high-octane racing machine. The 2019 ZR1 managed to squeeze in 755 horsepower under the hood, but engineers bonded together and agreed that the current design was holding it back from its full potential. The Chevy team then spent much time at the drawing board, and finally offered up the mid-engined model that had been thought about for decades.

All of us on staff here at O'Rielly Chevy of Tucson have marveled over the fact that the time has finally come, and the engine now resides in the space directly behind the driver. This is the layout of choice for some of the most exotic supercars in existence, because of the drastic results that take place within the realm of performance. With the engine in the middle, the weight is more evenly distributed between the front and rear wheels, which allows the vehicle to change direction quicker. In a rear-wheel-drive car, the added weight helps add traction and lets the rear brakes provide more energy for the task of stopping.

When horsepower and torque are added to an engine, the mass sees a drastic increase as well. In a rear-wheel drive vehicle, when the beefy engine is sitting on top of the front axle, less weight is distributed to the wheels where your power originates. This is a concept that has been tested in many different ways since the 1960s, utilizing the Chevy Experimental Research Vehicle Series.

One of the reasons that these never graduated from the concept car category was due to engine cooling issues, as well as their limited passenger and luggage space. What the folks at Business Insider honed in and took a close look at here was the Corvette base model compared to the Ferrari 458. They both are very similar in terms of mechanics and performance, but have quite a stretch in price: the Corvette is nearly $180,000 cheaper. This is no doubt one of the most radical changes to happen in the American car industry in quite some time, and it is just one of those instances where a complete reconstruction made the most sense in the world!

Chevy Colorado ZR2 Billed By Motor Trend as “The Best Off-Road Small Truck Money Can Buy”

It's the smallest In the lineup, but brand-new suspension upgrades and cladding make the Chevy Colorado ZR2 the truck that Motor Trend claims is “The best money can buy”! The fully boxed frame gives the Chevy Colorado ZR2 a stronger body resulting in better payload. Additional skid plates provide extra protection for the underbody, so rocks and other obstacles aren't scraping up some of the most vital parts of the truck. The V-6 powered Chevy Colorado ZR2 get you an 8-speed automatic transmission tuned for the challenges of off-road driving.

When this transmission is paired up with generous power, you've got the winning formula to create one of the best off-road trucks in existence. The 3.6-liter V-6 comes standard and is a very capable option for O'Rielly Chevy of Tucson drivers who crave the thrill of high speeds in the cactus and red-sand rich desert. There's also a diesel option: the Colorado ZR2 is available with a 2.8-liter turbodiesel capable of meeting your rock-crawling needs. This is also a truck that has the most power and torque in its league: the 3.6-liter V-6 cranks out 308 hp and 275 lb-ft of torque, and the 2.8-liter turbodiesel has 181 hp and 369 lb-ft, offering up two high-octane options to power the best small off-road truck.

Locking differentials allow both wheels to travel at the same speed, so when traction is lost for one wheel, both will still keep spinning no matter what the amount of resistance. With a locking differential, since equal power is transferred to both wheels, the wheel that is in contact with the ground has the ability to rotate along with the free wheel, providing added traction which is ideal for off-roading. Multimatic DSSV spool-valve shocks proved plenty of ground clearance for the task of crawling over large rocks, and the grit to deal with jumps and other obstacles that would cause a normal pickup to experience bottoming out after impact.

Motor Trend's Stefan Ogbac also was very appreciative of what's known as the “Chevy Swagger”, and took a quick liking to the illuminated bowtie badge that the ZR2 proudly sports that can get other rigs ahead of you to rapidly step aside. Our chief rival in the form of the Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro is the one that this article claims we beat out easily: the ZR2 rises above day-to-day expectations, and provides a great daily driver or option to veer off the pavement ferociously in. We are lucky to live in a state that offers an abundance of locations to properly put the Colorado ZR2 to the test, and are enthusiastic about the many positive reviews such as this one praising its ability and candor!