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Monday, January 13, 2025

Burn Bright, Drive Bold: The 2025 Chevy Tahoe Z71 Is Ready for Your Next Adventure!

2025 Chevy Tahoe Z71

Chevrolet continues to reign supreme in the full-size SUV category, with the Tahoe standing out as an enduring favorite. For 2025, the Tahoe receives significant updates, blending modern enhancements with the rugged reliability that has defined it for generations. The refreshed design features striking new lighting elements and a refined exterior that aligns seamlessly with Chevrolet's broader lineup of trucks and SUVs here at The Mid Missouri Powerhouse. 

The addition of an 11-inch digital instrument cluster, upgraded wheels, and advanced towing-assistance technologies further elevate the Tahoe's appeal. Yet, its hallmark remains the same: a family-sized SUV that combines practicality with a truck-based, adventure-ready build.

The Lineup

The 2025 Tahoe lineup is available in six trims—LS, LT, RST, Z71, Premier, and High Country. While most trims come standard with rear-wheel drive, the off-road-focused Z71 and premium High Country are equipped with selectable four-wheel drive. Chevrolet offers three impressive powertrain options, ensuring buyers can tailor their Tahoe experience:

  • 5.3L V8: 355 hp, 383 lb-ft

  • 6.2L V8: 420 hp, 460 lb-ft

  • 3.0L Duramax Turbo-Diesel I6: 305 hp, 495 lb-ft

All engines pair seamlessly with GM’s 10-speed automatic transmission, providing smooth and responsive performance.

On the Road and Off It

The Tahoe Z71, a fan-favorite trim, strikes a balance between bold styling and off-road capability. While it isn’t designed to compete directly with hardcore off-roaders like the Wrangler, the Z71 excels at navigating rough terrain to reach remote campsites and trails.

New for 2025, the Z71 offers the 3.0-liter Duramax diesel engine, a powerhouse delivering impressive torque and efficiency. Updated with enhanced pistons, injectors, and turbocharger, this engine offers better response and output while maintaining quiet refinement—perfect for long journeys. While not as potent as the 6.2-liter V8, the diesel’s highway efficiency makes it a compelling option.

Suspension options further enhance the Z71's versatility. The standard steel springs with adaptive Magnetic Ride dampers balance off-road toughness with on-road comfort. For those seeking maximum capability, the optional air suspension adds height adjustability for trail use while delivering a smoother ride on pavement.

This flexibility makes the Z71 equally at home crawling over rocky trails or cruising down the highway. Paired with precise steering and a robust chassis, the suspension options provide confidence-inspiring control no matter the terrain. Whether you're tackling steep inclines, navigating uneven paths, or enjoying a comfortable ride to your next destination, the Z71 is engineered to handle it all with ease and refinement.

Interior Comfort Meets High-Tech Innovation

Inside, the 2025 Tahoe offers a blend of practicality, durability, and modern design. The updated dashboard features Chevrolet’s largest-in-class infotainment screen, alongside a new digital instrument cluster. Both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay are standard, and physical buttons for frequently used functions ensure user-friendly operation.

The cabin is quiet and well-insulated, with robust materials ideal for family life. While some hard plastic surfaces remain, the overall layout is both stylish and functional. The Chevy Safety Assist suite comes standard across all trims, offering forward-collision alert, lane-keeping assist, and a 360-degree camera for improved safety and off-road navigation.

Utility and Capability

The Tahoe’s towing capabilities remain strong, though vary slightly depending on the powertrain. Rear-wheel-drive models with the 5.3-liter V8 can tow up to 8,400 pounds, while the diesel option offers a slightly reduced 8,200-pound capacity. For most buyers, this level of capability will more than suffice.

Verdict

The 2025 Chevrolet Tahoe Z71 continues to dominate the full-size SUV space, combining rugged capability, advanced technology, and refined comfort. While pricing starts at $60,495 for the base LS trim, the Z71 strikes a sweet spot with its blend of adventure-ready features and upscale amenities. For families seeking a versatile SUV with a commanding presence, the Tahoe remains an unbeatable choice.

Adventure calls frequently, and the 2025 Chevy Tahoe Z71 answers with a bold new look and unmatched prowess. With its bold design, high-powered off-road capabilities, and a tech-savvy interior, the 2025 Tahoe Z71 is primed to dominate both the rugged backcountry and the open road. 

Wednesday, January 8, 2025

Your Journey, Smarter: The 2025 Chevy Traverse Elevates Every Drive

2025 Chevy Traverse

The
2025 Chevrolet Traverse is a standout in the midsize SUV category, offering impressive value for families seeking space, comfort, and practicality. The Traverse is designed to handle everything from daily drives to road trips with ease, making it a versatile and reliable choice here at the Mid Missouri Powerhouse.

Chevrolet made some great updates in 2024, and this second-year version of the Traverse carries those improvements forward. Although it remains largely unchanged for 2025, one notable shift is that the base trim is now the LT, replacing the LS, while maintaining a high standard of features.

Exterior: The Traverse’s exterior design is sleek and modern, with a refreshed front fascia, clean lines along the sides, and a sharp shark fin on the rear windows. The 22" aluminum wheels paired with Lakeshore Blue paint give it a bold look, while the dual exhaust and built-in spoiler add to its sporty appeal. LED lighting on the front and rear, along with tasteful chrome details, elevate the overall aesthetic.

Powertrain: Under the hood, the 2025 Traverse offers a 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that delivers 328 horsepower and 326 lb-ft of torque, along with a 5,000-pound towing capacity. This engine option is a great balance of power and efficiency, making it an excellent choice for families who need performance without sacrificing fuel economy. The 8-speed automatic transmission ensures smooth driving, and while front-wheel drive is standard, all-wheel drive is also available for added capability.

Interior: The Traverse’s interior is where comfort and functionality truly shine. The High Country trim, in particular, boasts an upscale cabin with soft-touch materials and premium stitching. The white leather seats with black accents give it a luxurious feel. The 11" digital gauge cluster is bright and configurable, offering various views to display speed, trip information, and audio controls.

The centerpiece of the cabin is the 17.7" touchscreen, which controls everything from the Bose 10-speaker sound system to navigation and smartphone integration via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It’s intuitive, fast, and packed with features like Google Assistant, Alexa, and even a trailer hitch camera for easy towing.

The front seats are power-adjustable, heated, and ventilated for comfort in all conditions. The second row offers ample space with heated captain's chairs, and a 3rd-row seat that easily accommodates two adults or three kids. The rear rows feature USB-C ports, and the second row even slides and reclines for maximum comfort.

Utility: The Traverse excels in cargo capacity with up to 58 cubic feet behind the third row and 98 cubic feet when the second row is folded down. The hands-free power liftgate is a convenient feature, allowing easy access to the trunk, and you can fold the third row at the push of a button.

Technology & Safety: Standard features on the High Country trim include adaptive cruise control, lane change alerts, and forward collision mitigation. One standout feature is GM’s Super Cruise, a semi-autonomous driving system, available with the Traverse, which allows for hands-free driving on certain highways. It’s one of the best systems available, offering a seamless experience that enhances long trips.

The Traverse also includes Teen Driver features to monitor young drivers, a rear seat reminder to ensure you never leave anything (or anyone) behind, and a host of safety tech like automatic parking assist and lane-keeping assist.

Ride & Drive: The Traverse is a joy to drive, offering a smooth, quiet ride thanks to active noise-canceling technology. It handles well for its size, with easy steering and solid feedback. Despite its large size, it remains agile and stable around curves. The vehicle is rated at 20 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway, making it a solid choice for families who want a balance of power and efficiency.

Price & Value: The 2025 Chevrolet Traverse High Country starts at $54,995, which is an excellent value considering the upscale interior, spacious cabin, and high-tech features. If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, the LT trim starts at $40,600 and still offers a great level of equipment.

The 2025 Chevrolet Traverse is a standout in the SUV world, offering a perfect balance of space, power, and convenience for families on the go. With its modern design and thoughtful features, it delivers the kind of reliable, comfortable ride that’s ideal for everyday adventures. Whether you’re heading to soccer practice or exploring the great outdoors, the Traverse continues to impress, delivering a smooth, enjoyable drive without compromising on practicality or value.

Monday, December 30, 2024

Where Comfort Meets Connection: The 2025 Equinox Keeps Families Reliably Rolling

2025 Chevy Equinox

Chevrolet’s
latest redesign of its popular Equinox SUV is a game-changer for families. It’s not just a vehicle—it’s a value-packed companion for your everyday adventures. With a refreshed look, upgraded tech, and a price tag that’s as family-friendly as its features, the Equinox proves you don’t need to compromise on style or function in the least here at the Mid Missouri Powerhouse

Stylish Design That Turns Heads

The 2025 Equinox sports a bold new look with Chevy's signature grille and squared-off wheel arches for a touch of rugged sophistication. It’s the perfect blend of truck-inspired toughness and compact SUV practicality, making it a standout in the crowded crossover market. Inside, Chevrolet has raised the bar, trading in plastic-heavy finishes for a sleek, stylish cabin designed to impress.

Room to Spare, Comfort Everywhere

Whether it’s a quick grocery run or a road trip with the whole crew, the Equinox delivers on space and comfort. With seating for five adults, generous cargo capacity, and a ride that’s smooth and quiet, it’s built for families on the go. Plus, with fuel economy rated at 24 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway, it keeps the environment and your wallet in mind.

Packed with Features for Modern Families

Chevy packs in all the premium features you want—no compromises. The Equinox comes loaded with advanced safety tech, including emergency braking, pedestrian detection, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring. For added convenience, the new 11-inch infotainment screen, wireless charging, and heated seats keep everyone happy. Optional packages offer even more, like a surround-view camera system and ventilated front seats.

Performance That Delivers

Under the hood, the Equinox features a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine paired with a smooth 8-speed automatic transmission. It’s tuned to deliver a balance of power and efficiency, perfect for daily drives or weekend getaways. With three drive modes—Normal, Snow/Ice, and Off-Road—you’re prepared for whatever the road (or trail) throws your way.

Affordable Luxury

The Equinox RS, with its sporty styling and premium features, delivers incredible value for families seeking top-tier amenities in an all-wheel-drive vehicle. Even with additional option packages, it remains well below the current average price of a new car, making it a standout choice for those wanting a mix of style, performance, and affordability.

With the RS, you get a bold, sporty look featuring blacked-out trim, eye-catching RS badging, a stylish two-tone color scheme, and sleek 19-inch wheels. Inside, it's all about convenience and style, with a wireless charging pad, a drive mode selector for tough weather conditions, and a sporty flat-bottom steering wheel. 

Plus, the RS includes Chevy's comprehensive suite of safety features, like automatic rear emergency braking and front pedestrian braking—though it doesn’t come with Super Cruise. Whether you're navigating city streets or tackling the elements, the Equinox RS is ready for it all.

Not Just Bigger, But Smarter: The 2025 Equinox's Roomier Interior Explained

The 2025 Chevrolet Equinox offers a bit more room inside, thanks to a slight 2.5-inch increase in width compared to the previous model. While front legroom and headroom remain unchanged, the second-row legroom has grown to 39.2 inches, just a bit more than before, and more than the Honda CR-V, which offers less headroom in both rows.

In terms of cargo space, the Equinox still provides generous capacity, with 63.5 cubic feet with the seats down, just a small drop from the previous 63.9 cubic feet. With the rear seats up, it offers 29.8 cubic feet—essentially the same as before. Chevy maximizes the space in the Equinox in smart ways.

There's handy storage under the cargo floor, plus plenty of space in the front, including cubbies in the center console and a shelf large enough to fit a bag. The cupholders are generously sized, and the flat rear floor adds to the convenience. While competitors like Mazda and Subaru offer wider door openings, Chevy makes the most of the space with thoughtful design features that families will appreciate.

The Final Word

The 2025 Chevy Equinox is more than just a compact SUV—it’s a versatile, stylish, and affordable option that prioritizes what families need most: space, safety, and comfort. Chevrolet is proving they’re committed to staying ahead of the curve.

Shopping for a car that does it all? The 2025 Equinox might just be the perfect match for your family’s needs.

Thursday, December 26, 2024

Silverado’s Full-Size Ascent: The Journey from Trim Level to Titan

2025 Chevy Silverado 1500

Pickup trucks dominate American roads and are heavily celebrated for their remarkable versatility. Among them, the
Chevrolet Silverado 1500 has carved out a strong presence, with sales exceeding half a million units annually. While it trails behind the Ford F-150’s impressive yearly figures of over 700,000, the Silverado’s loyal following and millions of fans highlight its enduring appeal here at the Mid Missouri Powerhouse.

Known for our broad portfolio, Chevrolet excels in various segments, from SUVs and trucks to iconic sports cars like the Camaro and Corvette. At the heart of our truck lineup is the Silverado, which didn’t always enjoy its status as a standalone model. Once a trim level of the C/K series, the Silverado evolved into its own model line, escaping the shadow of its origins to become a significant player in the truck market.

Before its independence, the Silverado represented the pinnacle of Chevy's C/K lineup, a series introduced in 1959 to compete directly with Ford’s F-Series. Available in various configurations with reliable inline-six and V8 engines, the C/K trucks gained a loyal fan base over the decades. As customer demand grew for more luxury-oriented trucks, Chevrolet responded by introducing premium trims, with the Silverado at the forefront.

First introduced as a top-tier trim in 1975, the Silverado offered a distinctive blend of style and comfort. Exterior enhancements included bold color accents, unique moldings, and prominent Silverado branding. Inside, it featured plush, thickly cushioned seats, advanced gauge clusters, and wood trim accents, setting a new standard for upscale truck interiors. This emphasis on comfort and sophistication signaled a shift in consumer expectations and positioned the Silverado as a trendsetter.

The Silverado’s evolution didn’t stop there. By the late 1990s, Chevrolet phased out the C/K designation, promoting the Silverado to its rightful place as the centerpiece of the lineup. Over the years, the Silverado has introduced groundbreaking features, including four-wheel disc brakes, hybrid powertrains, and advanced safety systems, solidifying its reputation as a truck that innovates and performs. 

From its humble beginnings as a trim to its current status as a full-size truck icon, the Silverado's story is one of continuous growth and reinvention. Introduced for the 1999 model year, the Chevrolet Silverado marked more than just a name change—it ushered in significant advancements in design and functionality. 

Built on a newly developed three-section frame, it offered enhanced durability and ruggedness, making it far more capable on uneven terrain compared to earlier models. It also boasted the most spacious cabin among full-size trucks of its era and broke ground as the first pickup to feature standard disc brakes on all four wheels.

A Powerhouse Built for Performance

The Silverado came equipped with an impressive lineup of Vortec engines. The base option, a 4.3-liter V6, delivered 200 horsepower, while the V8 lineup catered to a range of needs. Choices included a 4.8-liter engine producing 255 horsepower and 285 lb-ft of torque, as well as larger 5.3- and 6.0-liter variants, with the top-tier engine generating 300 horsepower and 360 lb-ft of torque. 

A diesel-powered 6.6-liter Duramax V8 was introduced in 2001, offering 520 lb-ft of torque, making it a towing champion despite its comparable 300-horsepower output.

Innovating Through the Years

While it has consistently faced fierce competition from the Ford F-Series, the Silverado has held its own by leading in technological innovation. The 2003 refresh set it apart as the first full-size crew cab pickup with an optional four-wheel steering system. It was also ahead of its time by offering a premium Bose sound system, enhancing the in-cabin experience.

With the second-generation model debuting in 2007, Chevrolet doubled down on performance and refinement. This iteration featured stronger engines, a more robust boxed frame, and improved suspension for better handling and ride comfort. It also made history as the first full-size pickup to include a hybrid powertrain option.

A Legacy of Technological Leadership

Each successive generation of the Silverado has built on this tradition of innovation. The third and fourth generations introduced advanced safety systems, including forward-collision alerts and lane-departure warnings. Practical enhancements, such as the power tailgate introduced in 2019, further cemented its status as a leader in the segment.

The Modern Silverado: A Benchmark in Its Class

The latest Chevrolet Silverado 1500 showcases decades of refinement and innovation. Its powerful 420-horsepower, 6.2-liter V8 stands as the most potent naturally aspirated engine in its class. The addition of Super Cruise technology gives it the unique ability to tow hands-free, a feature unmatched by competitors.

The Silverado also excels in practicality, offering an unrivaled 89 cubic feet of cargo space in its truck bed. With configurations ranging from the versatile 1500 to the heavy-duty 2500 HD and 3500 HD models, there’s a Silverado to meet every demand. Whether it’s for work, recreation, or both, the Silverado continues to set the standard for what a truck can achieve.

High Country Takes the Crown as the Premier Trim

The High Country trim now reigns as the pinnacle of Silverado luxury. Packed with premium features, it offers advanced technologies like Super Cruise for hands-free driving and heated and ventilated seats for ultimate comfort. For those who crave adventure, the ZR2 variant is a standout option. This off-road beast comes equipped with a factory lift kit and trail-ready enhancements, making it more than capable of conquering rugged terrain.

The Silverado EV Paves the Way for the Future

As the shift toward electrification gains momentum, Chevrolet has positioned the Silverado to lead the charge with the 2024 Silverado 1500 EV. Powered by dual electric motors, the EV offers impressive flexibility, with configurations delivering power to either the rear wheels or all four. Depending on the setup, it boasts an exceptional range of up to 492 miles. Advanced four-wheel steering, featuring Sidewinder technology, allows diagonal movement for navigating tight spaces effortlessly.

Chevy’s Commitment to Staying Ahead

With competition in the truck market as fierce as ever, Chevrolet continues to innovate with each refresh. By blending cutting-edge technology and thoughtful design, the Silverado evolves to meet the demands of modern drivers. In the years ahead, this evolution might push the Silverado’s most luxurious trims toward a refined new identity.