An Off-Roader's Dream: The 2017 Chevy Colorado ZR2

If you’re a big fan of off-roading, you’re going to love the 2017 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2. The new Colorado has been on sale for a few years now and has done really well as far as performance and sales go- even winning Motor Trend Truck of the Year. However, in comparison to its rival, the Toyota Tacoma, some may say the Colorado doesn’t have the off-roading capabilities to take the cake. After a recent string of spy-photos, it seems like Chevrolet has taken this into consideration.

At the Los Angeles Auto Show in 2014, Chevrolet revealed a concept called the Colorado ZR2 which was definitely built for the dirt. Although they insisted this was only a concept, the leak of these photos has us thinking otherwise.

Even through the heavy camouflage on the front, we can see lots of off-road upgrades that will prevent the occurrence of any scraping. A rugged new front bumper has been added, in addition to robust skid plates underneath. The wheel arches are much more aggressive and the overhangs have been reduced.

Wondering where the power will come from? We’re thinking the ZR2 will be paired with the 3.6-liter V-6 gas or the 2.8-liter turbo-diesel engine. We’ll have to wait and see.

Anticipated to make its appearance later this year, the 2017 Colorado ZR2 will be every off-roader’s dream. It’s perfect for exploring the off-road trails of Jefferson City or finding the perfect spot to fish along the Missouri River.

We’ll keep you posted!

Is a Mid-Engine Corvette Becoming A Reality?

Mid-Missouri ‘Vette fanatics- a string of spy photos are making their way around and we have a feeling you’re going to be as excited as we are. It’s looking as if the next Corvette isn’t going to be your typical C7 Stingray, but rather a mid-engine model.

The mule was caught test-driving at GM’s Milford Proving Grounds in full camouflage (even sporting C7 body panels). However, a couple of things stood out- like the missing glass cover on the vehicle’s rear hatch. This kind of setup would ensure the engine, located behind the seats, is receiving enough air to keep it cool.

This mid-engine Corvette has been in the works for awhile- and just last year GM engineers and executives were seen testing a prototype that combined the C7 and Holden Commodore SSV. We’re getting closer and closer!
We’ll be sure to keep you updated...but in the meantime, don’t hesitate to visit us at the Mid-MO Powerhouse to check out the New 2016 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray Coupe!

Happy Birthday, Chevy Camaro... 50 Looks Great On You

The Camaro, first debuting in September of 1966 as a rival to Ford’s Mustang, is celebrating its 50th birthday this year! Though it took a break towards the beginning of the 21st century, the Camaro has been going strong, now in its sixth generation, and Chevrolet plans to celebrate accordingly.

This August, multiple public events are planned for the Camaro during the Woodward Dream Cruise, a huge classic car event taking place annually in Metropolitan Detroit. From tours of the Lansing Grand River Assembly Plant, where the Camaro is built, to a “Camaros and Coffee” event at the Joe Louis Arena Riverfront parking lot, every true Camaro fanatic will be in attendance. The official day of the Dream Cruise, Chevy will have a special heritage collection of the Camaro on display, where the new 2017 ZL1 and 1LE models will be available to view, as well.

Speaking of the 2017 model, this supercharged 6.2-liter V8 engine with an estimated 640-hp and 10-speed automatic transmission will be headed our way this fall...and we’re excited. 

In addition to this, Chevrolet is taking the celebration even further with a 2017 Special Edition Camaro. This will be available on coupes and convertibles with the 2SS or 2LT trims. Each vehicle will come in Nightfall Gray Metallic and advertise the 50th Anniversary logo throughout.

For more information about the anniversary and if you’re interested in attending any of the events, visit www.camarofifty.com.

In the meantime, be sure to come visit us at Mid-MO Powerhouse in St. Louis, MO to check out the 2016 Chevrolet Camaro and give it a test drive! 

Chevrolet Takes Home Most J.D. Power IQS Awards Four Years In A Row

 

The J.D. Power Initial Quality Study has awarded Chevrolet more than any other brand for the fourth year in a row. This study, conducted annually, takes the responses of 80,000 purchasers and lessees of new 2016 model-year vehicles following the first 90 days of their ownership and applies this information to any improvements the vehicle may need.

 

The 2016 awarded vehicles include: 

• The Tahoe, which scored 19 points above the segment average and led in the large SUV segment
• The Equinox scored 15 points above the segment average and led (in a tie) in the compact SUV segment
• The Silverado 1500 and the Silverado HD both dominated the full-size truck categories
• The Spark led the city car segment and scored a total of 48 points above the segment average

“First, the study results will help attract new buyers to a Chevrolet, as J.D. Power data shows ‘expected reliability’ is a customers’ top purchase consideration,” states Alan Batey, Global Chevrolet president. “Second, the improved ownership experience of our new vehicles will help convert first-time Chevrolet buyers into repeat customers, as J.D. Power indicates customers who have a positive experience in the first 90 days of ownership are more likely to become repeat buyers for the brand.”

 

As indicated in this year’s study, Chevrolet is the fastest growing full-line brand in the automobile industry. The company has seen a 3% grow in retail sales in the first five months of 2016 due to their focus on the customer.

 

Want to check out these award-winning vehicles for yourself? Stop in the Mid-Missouri Powerhouse located in Linn, MO today!