Tucson's Spywatch Update: 2019 Chevy Corvette ZR1 Images Potentially Leaked

The landscape in and around Tucson can be a delightfully open expanse to blast through with any of the most high-powered cars on the globe. There's nothing quite like the freedom of opening up amidst red rock and sand, and feeling as if your cares are slipping further away behind you. We can attest that they will slip further behind you than ever dreamed with the ability to tap into 750 hp, which is the most that has ever been available to a ZR1. At first glance, the new 2019 Corvette model looks much more aggressive than the current Z06, due to a massive hood vent, new bumper, and giant rear wing. The last ZR1 was produced 4 years ago, and made 638 hp.

Sources tell us that the new ZR1 will most likely use the identical 6.2-liter V-8 found in the current Z06, but there will be greatly improved cooling. We admit that the overall vibe of this car is a bit futuristic for a Corvette, and some diehard drivers may feel like this is not at all the same car that they loved from, let's cay, circa 1984. But on the realistic side, that was 30 years ago, and all vehicles naturally evolve. All of us on the lot here at Orielly love it, and the black edition we've seen struck our fancy a bit more than the orange one pictured on the cover of this month's Car and Driver, where there was surprisingly a fully leaked photo of the 2019 ZR1.

This new 'Vette has a top speed of more than 210 miles per hour, derived from its 6.2-liter, 8-cylinder supercharged, dual-injected engine. This is the first time that the ZR1 will be offered with an automatic transmission, and you can still opt for the 7-speed manual. This new model comes with two wind tunnel-honed aerodynamics packages, and the available High Wing provides an estimated 950 pounds of powerful downforce. A special carbon-fiber “halo” hood opens up in the middle, with the important function of clearing the LT5 engine's supercharger/intercooler assembly.

GM product chief Mark Reuss said in a statement that “its unprecedented performance puts all other global supercars on notice that the ZR1 is back”, and we can guarantee that world-class drivers are going to have an amazingly fun time testing it. A lap around the famed German Nurburgring proving grounds has not yet been achieved, but will probably take place over the coming spring months of 2019. The two standard packages available will allow the driver to choose from a standard Low Wing, and an available two-way adjustable High Wing that offers maximum downforce on the track for primo speed.

All models also feature a front underwing that is built to primarily enhance downforce. This is a high-performing addition to the Chevy fleet that will deserve quite a bit of reverence and respect: the 750-hp beast will be sure to be seen cornering heavy and smoking its competitors out for many days to come! 

Tucson Trailwatch: Chevy Colorado ZR2's Rugged Revamp Courtesy of AEV

The Colorado ZR2 is a favorite truck among the off-road enthusiast crowd for many reasons: it has a smaller size, top-notch suspension, and is as able as any to jump off the road and rip up any canyon or valley with ease. For more than 15 years, American Expedition Vehicles have been pushing design boundaries and innovation techniques, and they first set up shop in one of the most rugged locations in the nation: Missoula, Montana. Full of raging rivers and nestled against the mountains, it was surely a proving ground that aided greatly with their A+ work on the Jeep Wrangler. They did a real bang-up piece of work in the “Call Of Duty” Jeep edition, and as soon as we laid eyes on it, we knew that their alterations on the ZR2 would be phenomenal.

Released at the SEMA show in Las Vegas, this awesome tan truck has had a complete revamp of its suspension system, and driveline components that provide for a 1.5-inch lift. One thing that should properly drop your off-road desiring jaw right away is the 35-inch tires: mounted to a world-class crafted seat of AEV beadlock rims, they look like they could conquer anything. Remember the baddest Tonka or other diecast truck that you had in your toy arsenal growing up? The one that you would die to own if it were legit? This AEV-modified ZR2 IS that truck, in all possible ways. Powered by a 2.8-liter diesel engine, there is also a high dose of added protection with the AEV-designed front and rear off-road bumpers, and defiantly element-proof skid plates on the underbody.

The grille gets roughly the same treatment as the Ford F-150 Raptor and Toyota TRD Pro: the entire “Chevrolet” namesake is written across the bowtie, giving it a different but definitely cool appearance. All of us on the lot here at Orielly immediately loved the roof-high expedition rack: it is mounted firmly on the bed, and includes goodies like a portable ARB refrigerator. It has been impressive to see the developments in RV technology over the past decade, and some of us here were tapping our feet waiting on trucks to get the same treatment. We were impressed with various power sources, ultra-cool interior kitchen features, and outdoor refrigerators and USB hubs.

That type of ingenuity was passed on perfectly to the AEV version of the Colorado ZR2: near the right rear fender, there is a simple, yet effective panel that provides auxiliary power, an air compressor, and fresh water system. Truck owners who are used to camping, fishing, and spending literally the entire week or weekend outside will love this feature: it is a touch that really begins to make you feel as if you have amenities from home with you on the open trail. The result of AEG's expertise is stunning: the add-ons that make this version of the ZR2 that much more ready for the off-road sector are perfect. We enjoy how this truck looks modern to the T, but it still looks like a truck, and not a praying mantis, or futuristic robot. Staying true to traditional elements was the real reason this is a win, and you'll be bowled over right away when you come take a look at this brazen and haughty hauling truck for 2018!

A Tucson Trail Hound's Dream Come True: The Colorado ZR2 Midnight and Dusk Editions

We are absolutely thrilled to live in one of the best areas of the nation for anyone who loves to go off-roading with their beloved truck. There is nothing quite like experiencing the thrill of cruising through red rock and desert with a vehicle that is able to absorb every difference in the road, offer you perfect climate control, and provide first-rate safety options to boot. Known for being “small and all-around stealth”, the Colorado ZR2 is one of the most able desert crawlers that currently exists. In anticipation of the yearly SEMA convention in Las Vegas, Chevy unveiled two very special trim packages for the truck, and both are available within the month.

The Chevy Colorado ZR2 Midnight Edition and Dusk edition are two awesome variations of the same theme, which was to black out all of the bright trim on this massively durable and able mud-spitting machine. What has instantly became one of our favorite trucks now receives black 17-inch, five-spoke wheels, black bow tie badges, a sport bar with off-road LED lights, and spiffy ZR2 logos on the sport-bar sail panels. If you opt for the ZR2 Midnight Edition, it combines black trim pieces with black paint, while the Dusk Edition gives you the ability to pick your favorite paint color. The most durable desert-running desperadoes in our network will love the fact that many other ZR2 features remain, including the more aggressive hood and grille, as well as trimmed front and rear bumpers for cleaner approach and departure angles.

You're also going to nail down front and rear electronic locking differentials, hill descent control, and an aluminum skidplate to protect the radiator and oil pan. The signature Autotrac transfer case, modified rear axle, and special off-road setting are all available as well. Just a decade or two ago, many different types of trucks were used in desolate locations. Location scouting, pipeline construction, and fun times such as the Burning Man music festival all come to mind as plausible destinations. What Chevy has truly done with this vehicle is offered up a sleek and defined option to conquer the desert with, and the R and D team kinda went all developmentally crazy on it: it's not oversized. It turns tight, feels grippy, and is more than enough to conquer the type of terrain that may lie ahead.

There is a fair amount of customers we see that come to visit us here at Orielly Chevy who are desperate to compare. They want want to know just what it is about the cars and trucks we offer that is better than the competition, and we are hasty to offer the answers up! The fact that the ZR2 is smaller is definitely advantageous: if you come back home to the city, you can park it easily, and it will navigate the desert and rock-laden landscapes with ease. The Colorado ZR2 is better than competitors such as the Ford F-150 Raptor because of its front locking differential: is is the only pickup of its type that has one.

When you come talk to us on the lot, make sure you get our take on the fuel economy of this truck: it weighs in at about exactly 5 MPG more in overall efficiency than the Raptor. We are excited to show you how “coming to the dark side” will up your off-road truck game during 2018, and give you the keys to the ultimate missing link in navigation: you're going to now go many places you have NEVER gone before!

Orielly 2018 Outlook: What's on Tap for Tucson Auto-Owners During the New Year

The 4^th quarter of the year is a very exciting time around the Orielly dealership: many things are starting to materialize about the way the new models are going to look, and customers are coming in to set up their lease and buying options. A wide variety of safety features, engines being swapped on a few popular models, and new trim options are all out on the table as well. Autonomous driving and many other top-of-the-line safety features are what is next on the horizon, and technology is going to begin advancing at a quicker rate than ever during the years to come. Check out just how awesome some of the offerings are for next year!

The Colorado is going to have a majority of the front bumper removed on the ZR2, as well as adding 31-inch tires, longer springs and front control arms, and spool-valve shocks. There is also a wider rear axle to match the widened front track. With gas V-6 and diesel 4-cylinder options carried over from the regular Colorado, this is the true competitor for the Ford Raptor. Packing up for Sycamore Creek or Bulldog Canyon could be the best near-Tucson road trip ever, where you can fully open up this fun truck, and enjoy it.

Anyone who loves fast cars knows that the Corvette is usually at the head of the pack, and it's a very special occurrence that it turns 65 during 2018. Special-edition Grand Sport and Z06 Models celebrate the Corvette's 65^th birthday, with special commemorative gray paint, and cool carbon-fiber gadgets. The ZR1 will also go on sale next year, in the version that has the long-running front-engine/rear-drive format, before it goes to a completely mid-engined version. A very large rear wing and new slats and vents all over the body do a good job of keeping the model looking current, ruthless, and defined by thunderous speeds!

The crossover SUV is becoming more and more a staple of many households, and the Equinox is going to be in the Chevy lineup for 2018 with a downsized model. Sleek, compact, and able to get you headed in the right direction for any distance of journey, it will be available with a 170-hp turbo, 1,5-liter inline-four. Later in the year, a 1.6-liter turbo-diesel should be joining the lineup as well.

A full-sized van is a great vehicle to add to any tour business, moving fleet, or busy church group. The able and large Express will see a big update during 2018, as it added the Colorado pickup's 2.8-liter four-cylinder diesel engine as an option late this year. To assure that it busts out of the gate with appropriate gusto, the 2018 version will have the 4.3-liter V-6 from the Silverado, which replaces the Express's old 4.8-liter V-8. OnStar and hillstart assist will actually be standard on every model now as well.

Chevy Tahoes will see a pretty sizable upgrade during 2018: the Rally Sport Truck Kit, or RST will add 22-inch wheels as well as some pretty wicked monochromatic exterior trim. If you opt for the Performance Package, you'll pull down GM's 420-hp 6.2-liter V-8, and adaptive dampers from the GMC Yukon Denali, as well as the Cadillac Escalade. A Ten-speed automatic transmission will also be on tap for the new Tahoe, and if you are willing to shell out a bit extra, you can get Brembo brakes. This full-sized, three-row body on frame SUV has seating for up to 8 passengers, and you'll immediately love the gloss-black grille present on the new version.

Next year's Traverse is going to see some drastic interior packaging improvements, giving occupants more space, with just a slight dip in available cargo volume. Check out how quick and able the 255-hp, turbocharged 2.0-liter inline -4 is that is exclusive to RS models, as well as a now standard GM nine-speed automatic transmission. A great way to check out the beautiful state of Arizona, the Traverse has 5,000 lbs of towing capacity, and avidly cranks out 266 lb-ft of torque. This new model has dropped over 300 pounds, and you'll notice the difference in navigation and steering capacity right away. 

Entrusting Your Tucson-area Workload to a Top-notch + Tough Rig: 2018 Chevy Silverado 1500

There has definitely been a longstanding rivalry between the Ford F150 and the Silverado: these are two trucks that sit menacingly at the top of the heap, and they both admittedly have the raw power needed to get the job done. Everyone here on the staff at Orielly loves to share with customers their reasons why they pick the Silverado, and ways in which it exceeds expectations. Choosing one with a 6.2-liter V-8 will provide class-leading horsepower, and the maximum towing ability out there, coming in at 12,500 pounds.



Some of the changes made for 2018 are a bit subtle, but when consumers are happy with the finished product, there are sometimes not too many reasons to switch things up hastily. Due to new government mandates, every model now has a backup camera, and the tire-pressure monitor emits a loud noise when air pressure is at an optimum level. A feature that was previously only available on the LT trim, the eAssist package is now optional on the LTZ. It's a new mild-hybrid electrical system that puts to use many of the leveraged technologies and components from Chevy's diverse lineup of vehicles. Silverado already leads the full-size truck segment in V-8 fuel economy, and for those who use their trucks for more urban driving, the addition of eAssist can further reduce their fuel costs, but not take away from the bolstered utility they love in a truck.

As is the case with many full-size trucks, the Silverado 1500 can be customized to fit just about any new owner's diverse needs. The base WT model starts at just under $30,000, and the fully-loaded High Country can top the $60,000 mark. One good pricing point in the middle of the spectrum is for the mid-level LT, which starts at around $35,000. You can pair it with a crew cab, short bed, 5.3-liter V-8, and all-wheel drive for about $10,000 more. Many customers surveyed over the past 5 years have told us how they are eager to buy trucks with these many upgrades available: you really get to create the end result that you want, down to the very last detail.



Ask the sales and service staff here at Orielly how you can benefit from the Z71 package as well: it provides for you body-color grille surround, headlamp bezel, and 18-inch wheels sporting all-terrain tires. You also are able to put to use the trailering package: with a 2-inch receiver hitch and automatic locking rear differential, along with the ability to haul just about anything you'd imagine. We proudly stand behind our many customers in the area that work within the agriculture industry, and we understand just how rugged and durable any vehicle they use would need to be.

Off-road suspension with Rancho shocks complete the Z71 layout: if you are planning to quickly kick dust off of any major interstate artery, this is the setup that will justify your journey best. The Silverado is one of those machines that didn't have to try too hard to etch its mark permanently into truck enthusiast's minds: come see just what it's like to drive the best in show today.

100 Years of Glory: Chevy Celebrates by Introducing Silverado and Colorado Centennial Editions

During the 2018 model year, the Chevy brand reaches an incredibly large milestone: 100 business years of developing the best in the show. During the Texas State Fair next year, the 2018 Chevy Silverado 1500 and Colorado Centennial will be featured as prominent headlining anchors of the event. Available as off-road-oriented Z71 models, this pair of commemorative and hard-grinding' pickups are noteworthy for their Centennial Blue paint and the “heritage-inspired” bow-tie emblems that grade their tailgates, front doors, and grilles. They are also ringed in chrome, bearing dark blue centers where the traditional Chevy gold usually is located, and with a unique bow tie.

The bow tie has the word Chevrolet in an appealing chrome script that is a tribute to some of the brand's earliest models, including the original 1918 One-Ton. A symbol of an age that brought much prosperity and promise of future productivity, the One-Ton looks a bit primitive now but was superb when released. One could almost picture it traversing the nation as the Depression-era family from “The Grapes of Wrath” did to find work. At the time, the One-Ton was a vehicle that opened up many new possibilities for hauling cargo and more people, and it could be spotted in many then-booming industrial cities such as Cleveland and Chicago.

Other cool additions for this commemorative duo's release are for the four-wheel drive, crew-cab-only Silverado: there is now offered the LTZ trim level of equipment, 22-inch painted alloy wheels with chrome inserts and a newly-placed chrome bow tie on the steering wheel. The mid-size Colorado Centennial is available as an extended cab or crew cab with four or rear-wheel drive. More steps have been taken for dress up with 18-inch wheels, a rear bumper sporting the body color, and grille surround, as well as chrome mirror caps, door handles, and body moldings. Official pricing has not yet been released for either model, but these different ways to dress up the car should each add around $3000 to the final prices of the truck.

Whether you are desperate for some quality outdoors time in the areas nearby Tucson that has so much to offer, just took a job where you know you'll need a steady hauler for tools, or are out to get rid of that seemingly boring sedan in your life, we've got you covered. Chevy has also created some additional fun birthday bonuses for their loyal truck-loving customers: there will be a Centennial-edition run of Phoenix bass boats, perfect for the days when you know you may not be able to handle another minute of being stuck in the office. You can also find 24-foot enclosed InTech trailers, which are done up to match the pickups as well.

Continuing the very festive 100-year celebration also takes place with the nationwide rollout of the brand's Truck Legends Program. Previously just offered in the Lone Star State, it's a free membership-based program that rewards frequent flying truck owners with swag, an online community, and access to special Chevy experiences and frontline events. These Centennial editions are going to go over great with those who love the feel of starting off their mornings with a poignantly loud and rumbly engine: come to Orielly to ask us about their arrival!

Tucson Coming Track Scoop: Camaro ZL1 to Rep Chevy During Next Year's NASCAR Blitz

Here at Orielly Chevy, we all tend to get a bit reverent and serious when the mere mention of a NASCAR event crosses the lips of anyone we know: the Florida heat, heart-pumping action, and die hard fans are just a few of the reasons why everyone loves coming back. We have just received news that beginning next season, the Camaro ZL1 will make an appearance during Daytona Speedweeks, the official and exciting kickoff for the 2018 NASCAR season. 

Last week, the powerful and snarling new blue coupe cruised down Jefferson Avenue Right in front of GM Headquarters, touting its official replacement of the Chevrolet SS, which has been the NASCAR fleet commander from Chevy for the last 4 years.

Jimmie Johnson showed up with none other than Dale Earnhardt Jr. himself, who is going to be the lucky driver of the no. 88 Camaro during next year's season. Johnson rapidly declared that the ZL1 is a “monster” and that the raw torque and power behind the car are some of its most exciting attributes. Motor Trend claims that the German phrase “uberholprestige” has a lot of raw meaning when it comes to the new Camaro ZL1, translating loosely to “I'd better let the beast in my rearview mirror pass!”. The previously used SS model had scored an impressive total of 70 World Cup Series wins, and helped Chevy earn a record 39 NASCAR manufacturing titles.

Consumer Reports claims that the new generation of Camaro is “pleasingly familiar”, and “delight to drive”. Once you visit us on the lot, you're going to instantly get excited to drive this sheer masterpiece in muscle, with its V-8 producing a snarling sound and high thrust capability. Optimized air vents work to control temperature and the flow of air through rotational trim rings. Nice extras like a leather-wrapped flat-bottom steering wheel and seating with aggressive bolsters are on hand to provide extra support when the g-force factor goes up, which you're bound to engage in this able and incredibly astute racer.

20” black wheels with red accents are part of the ZL1's instant visual appeal and provide for it the ability to adapt to any type of cornering, as well as various weather conditions. Darkened tail lamps, premium carpet floor mats with red stitching, and many other opportunities to customize the vehicle are all available after new purchase. 

Ask us how an intense adjustment such as an Exhaust Upgrade Package can work hard to reduce backpressure, and a Brake System Upgrade Kit can give you that much more command and prowess on the track. Whether you are poised to off on a high-performance and demanding track such as a NASCAR lap, or just taking a quick drive up to Kitt Peak National Observatory, the new Camaro ZL1 is sure to wow, impress, and curb your ultimate need for speed.