Motor Trend Glimpse: 7 Tech Highlights of 2021 Chevy Tahoe and Suburban

All of us here on staff at the Mid-Missouri Powerhouse fully agree that the Ford Expedition and Lincoln Navigator are the very stiff competition for the T1-generation 2021 Chevy Tahoe and Suburban. Motor Trend took a close look this week at a few of the highlights that will make these two new vehicles stand out, and ways in which the engineering team pulled out all the stops. There is less of the new model shared with the pickup truck it's based on then with many other years, but the forward part of the frame and a large amount of the body crush structure are shared.

The lower control arms feature a crossbar, that is not present on the Silverado. The Independent rear suspension plays a huge role in the achievement of improved ride comfort, sharper handling, and increased passenger and cargo packaging space. The load floor is now lowered by as much as 5.3 inches because what is known as the differential “pumpkin” now is mounted on the chassis. This makes the frame much more rigid, the driveshaft doesn't require as large of a plunge joint as the model before it.

Another very awesome and advanced feature is the small compressor attached using rubber mounts back near the spare tire. It fills a reservoir that is situated just below the middle-row pasengers feet next to the transfer case. Both the new Tahoe and Suburban have the ability to process 4.5 terabytes of information per hour – five times more than the outgoing model. Just to give you an idea of that sheer amount, its equal to 980 stored two-hour movies. In regards to gems from the big screen, there are now two 12.6-inch rear seat displays available, as well as a 10-inch diagonal central infotainment screen, and a 15-inch head-up display, the longest in existence for the category.

All of the cameras are upgraded to high-def 1-megapixel standards, and over-the-air updates can be accessed through the onboard 4G cellular connection. The previous-generation Tahoe-Suburban bodies were situated with the front structure bolted on, but the new T1 “body-in-white” includes the front crash structure already welded in. This greatly simplifies the assembly process and shows great improvements in crash performance.

The plant in Arlington, Texas that will build all Tahoes and Suburbans can crank out 240,000 annually, and the body shop that just received 1,450 new robots that now have the ability to stamp aluminum panels. This new body shop will play a part in easing the transition from K2 to T1 generation production. The paint shop now also gets a new thin-film metal prep process, boasting way more environmentally friendly traits than the acid etching system in place before it. These two vehicles are the perfect choice for anyone with an entourage, and we are excited to see the wide reception of the many new features these two heavy-haulers brandish for 2021!

Crushing The Christmas Cargo Space Challenge: Chevy Suburban and Tahoe Beat Out Ford Expedition

Part of the success of any brand stems from the ways it can outperform its rivals, and offer more as a vehicle in every single demand. Ford has long been on our radar as a head-to-head competitor, and age-old spats have been ongoing with the likes of the Mustang and the Camaro for quite some time. Connor Hoffman of Car and Driver took to the blog this week to talk about the incoming Suburban and Tahoe's interior space, an important selling point for many getting ready checking stats and standings of New Year's offerings.

The independent rear suspension is one of the main reasons why the interior space, as well as legroom of both the SUVs, are boosted. This now allows for a lower floor, which makes it so much easier to load in cargo, and adds an abundance of room in the cargo area as well as second and third-row seats. The Tahoe now boasts an increase of 28 cubic feet in total cargo volume, and the Suburban heftily brandishes 23.

Our two prized Chevy SUVs at the Mid-Missouri Powerhouse have bragging rights to five extra cubic feet of cargo room when measured up to the Fords: 26 for the Tahoe compared with 21 for the Expedition, and 41 cubic  feet for the Suburban, which beats out the 36 cubic feet brandished by the Ford Expedition Max. These two new full-size Chevy SUVs are built on the same platform as the heavy-hitting and very durable Silverado 1500 truck. One of the best uses for the Tahoe and Suburban has to do with a facet of business that is doing very well: the computer repair or sales company. You can stack laptops, desktop towers, and accessories galore in any of these vehicles, and feel pretty safe and secure while doing so!

All cameras onboard are now upgraded to high-def 1-megapixel standards, and message authentication as well as numerous gateway isolating busses are in place to assure that networks are always maintaining a peak security potential. This makes great sense, since the Tahoe and Suburban are some of the best choices in the nation that equip the police and fire fleets out there every day in the trenches protecting our citizens.

The previous-generation Tahoe and Suburban bodies were constructed from the firewall back, with the front bolted on, and now the new T1 includes the front structure previously welded in. Many out there have been worried about processes being “Earth Friendly” as of late, and the new paint shop for these two SUVs will employ a thin-film metal prep process that has the best interest of the ground under us at constant front-running and well-paced stance!

2020 Chevy Silverado 1500 Motor Trend Test Results: Quicker Than Some From the V-6 Club

When one thinks about a tried-and-true work truck, all of us on staff here at the Mid-Missouri Powerhouse fully understand that a 6 or 8 cylinder engine is usually perceived as able to get towing and hauling jobs done.  A full-size 5,000 – pound truck is not the most likely place that some would expect to find a thriving 4-cylinder engine, and some may shrug it off as seeming as if it is on the weaker side of the powertrain spectrum. Even after all of the engine downsizing seen during recent years, the staff on duty at Motor Trend were leery about the premise of a 4-cylinder truck, but were immediately very impressed with its responsive and powerful qualities.

Chevy's  2.7-liter turbo four's specs make it look like the V-6 competitor that it is, but there is one key advantage: the 310-hp 2.7-liter engine has 348 of torque that is generated from 1,500 to 4,000 rpm, so quick response comes easy. This results in a much quieter cabin as well, and the team's 2020 Silverado 1500 RST tester hit 60 mph in 7.1 seconds. This is quicker than the Ford F-150 XL with a 3.3-liter V-6 and the Ram 1500 Tradesman with  the 3.6-liter V6. Also within the Silverado family, a 5.3-liter LT Trail Boss with the 8-speed automatic reached 60 mph in 6.7 seconds, and the 4.3-liter-equipped work truck got to 60 in 7.2 seconds.

Understandably, one may miss the sound of the naturally aspirated V-8, but at the 2020 Truck of the Year testing, this new 2.7 powertrain met a high level of praise. Features editor Scott Evans said after testing the truck with a 4,000-pound trailer that “This thing pulls like there's nothing there”, and that anyone who says this engine doesn't belong in a truck should just “drive it for themselves”. It remains quiet even with large crosswinds, and the steering is well-weighted and precise.

You'll be able to find this 2.7-liter engine as an option on the WT, Custom, LT, and RST trims, and nail down a towing capacity of 6-7,000 pounds. It may be a bit surprising to not have the consistently heavy rumble underneath you as you complete the daily drive as well as hauling and towing, but the miracles of modern engineering has changed the way how 4-cylinders are perceived. It was just a decade or so ago that any truck with a 4-cylinder engine was going to be thought of immediately as a tiny number that could potentially go anywhere, but not have the ability to pull its weight.

Driving like a pickup yet better, it heaves over bumps as a unit, with the ability to settle well. As the temperatures drop and the festive season is upon us in full force, its a great time to check out this and all of the other trucks here on the lot, and figure out which friend or family member would be the best recipient of the greatest gift one can give AND receive!

2019 Colorado ZR2 Bison's Off-Road Domination Proclaimed by Portland Tribune

The midsized pickup truck segment is one that offers a lot of competition: The quality of add-ons such as skid plates are of dire importance, as they are shielding such sensitive areas of the truck. As you are preparing to dash across boulders and plow through streams, you need to select an off-road model that has above average capability, and truly possesses the protection level to make it a trail contender. Here at the Mid-Missouri Powerhouse we steer many customers in the direction of the Colorado ZR2 Bison and were proud to see a great review of it this past week in the Portland Tribune.

The basic Colorado is designed for both work and being a daily driver, and comes with a 4-cylinder, 3.6-liter V6 rated at 308 horsepower or 2.8-liter Duramax turbo-diesel with 369 lb-ft of torque. These are all paired to an automatic transmission, with choice of rear-wheel or four-wheel-drive. Within the 4X4 system is an automatic mode that simulates all-wheel-drive, ideal for getting through the powder and slush that winter brings. It was two years ago that the ZR2 was offered for the first time, brandishing a strengthened suspension with upgraded control arms, steering gear, and hubs.

It's a full two inches taller than the standard Colorado 4 X 4, with front and rear locking differentials for when the road ahead presents difficult passing potential. There are also Multimatic shock absorbers on all four wheels, using variable valving that offers up the toughness required for serious off-road navigation and still giving a smooth asphalt ride. For the 2019 model, the Bison package was added, and capabilities drastically altered. There are now five new skidplates underneath, heavy steel front and rear bumpers with a winch and recovery points, and wheels designed for off-road punishment.

There's even an optional snorkel air intake if the agenda leads to incredibly deep water, and we assure you, it's real and functional! All of these features including waterproof floor liners helped elevate the Bison above its competition to declare the Off-Road Truck of the Year award from Popular Mechanics. Once inside, the Bison bears a heavy dose of similarity to the ZR2. There are the necessary controls for the locking differentials, but the rest of the interior has not strayed much from the standard Chevy feel. In writer Jeff Zurschmeide's opinion here, the Bison is the ultimate off-road truck, leading the pack by leaps and bounds with its ability, go-anywhere prowess, and potential!

Chevy Corvette “A Masterpiece at First Attempt”, Snags Motor Trend Car of Year Honors

Every once in a while, a car comes around that truly disrupts the landscape, changing things for good and leaving it permanently altered. The first trait that Motor Trend wanted to get across regarding the new Corvette was that never before “has so much good exoticism been attainable for so little money”, and claims that this 8th-generation car will bring people into dealerships who would previously never come in. All of us here at the Mid-Missouri Powerhouse love how they compared the excitement of this new model to standing on the moon, another landmark American achievement.

Work began on this project back in 1959, when Zora Arkus-Duntov began conceptualizing on the then-named 1960 CERV-1. It was then a single-seater and had a V-8 small-block, and even way back then, excited Motor Trend editors and other enthusiasts that at least it the idea could be humanly possible. The staff of the magazine now been able to have their hands on the new Corvette for a few weeks of testing, and excitedly claim that Zora was definitely onto something those 60 years ago.

Writer Jonny Lieberman points out truthfully that after so much hope and anticipation, sometimes waiting for something this long proves to be a disappointment. But here he's happy to report in the extreme that the 2020 Corvette delivers the gods in “ways you wouldn't think possible”. International Bureau Chief Angus MacKenzie claimed that this creation now brings the Corvette much closer to the Porsche 911 in terms of being an attainable supercar than any time since the '60s. The first thing many notice after a drive is the distinct lack of road noise for a supercar: it's not completely silent but has received a hefty amount of praise for its quiet cabin.

When technical editor Frank Markus had the new 'Vette out on the freeway, he said Touring mode provided a ride that was as comfortable as anything the team had ever driven, and that the chassis of the C8 is incredibly smooth and polished. Road Test Editor Chris Walton claimed that the interior is clever, attractive, and the ergonomics are fantastic. Much of the credit for the lightening-fast 0 to 60 time is due to the very quick-shifting 8-speed dual-clutch transmission, beating out direct competitors such as the Porsche 911 Carrera S.

The fact that this is a real mid-engined supercar for the price of a Corvette is simply astonishing to many experts out there, and proof that we are living in exciting times. Overall value and ride handling are the absolute finest points this new Corvette brandishes, and the days after its reveal have been a straight-up party of sorts: the good reports, rewards, and exhilarating track tests just keep stacking up robustly in its well-earned favor!

New Camaro Model Offered Up For Breakneck-Speed 2020 Nascar Cup Series

Last week the official announcement hit the newswires and us right here at the Mid-Missouri Powerhouse that next year's Chevy teams in the 2020 Nascar Cup Series will be getting their hands on the Camaro ZL1 1LE. It will now be heralded as the most track-capable and fastest Camaro of all time, and will be on tap to replace the SS for the 2018 NASCAR Cup Series season, and has achieved 7 wins so far this year. 4 of them belong to track champ Chase Elliott, and Kyle Larson, Alex Bowman, Kurt Busch, and Justin Haley all have nabbed down one each.

For this exciting new ZL1  model, engineers spent countless hours at work putting to use computational fluid dynamics to optimize aerodynamic performance, simulations, and full-scale wind testing to zoom in properly  and bring to life a legend. The brand-new ZL1 1LE is the  highest performer within the Camaro lineup, and the excitement of the legacy has won the Chevy namesake a record of 39 NASCAR manufacturer championships, claiming 13 consecutive titles alone from 2003-2015. Chevy drivers have proudly taken home a record 31 championships, and among them was Jimmie Johnson's record-tying seventh during 2016. The   2020 NASCAR Cup Series will be the 72^nd season for the nail-biting excitement of stock car racing, as well as the 49^th season for the modern-era Cup Series.

The Advanced Auto Parts Clash will kick off the season at Daytona International Speedway next year, and the 62^nd annual run of the sun-drenched Daytona 500. Just two weeks ago we received word that Go Fas Racing has now created a partnership with Stewart-Haas Racing to obtain chassis, data, and technical support from them beginning during 2020. Other noteworthy events this fall include JTG Daugherty Racing announcing during mid-October of this year that they had successfully signed Ricky Stenhouse JR to a multi-year contract.  Just three  weeks later, Landon Cassil claimed that he plans to keep his current position in the StarCom Racing No. 00 Chevy for 2020.

On October 1 of 2019, NASCAR officially released the slightly modified rules listings for 2020. One of the changes is regarding road crew members: there will now only be 10 instead of 12 in any pit, and teams brandishing 3 or more cars are now limited to just three roster spots. After experiencing 21 awesome years of being NASCAR'S Premiere Fourth of July weekend even, the Coke Zero Sugar 400 at Daytona International Speedway will now see its move to August, becoming the final race of the standard season. All of us on staff here at the Powerhouse are revved up to witness just how the most powerful Camaro to ever be unleashed on the track fares during America's top-ranked track pastime, and we'll keep you posted right here as to how the brand-new ZL1 fares during the fierce competition!

Carhartt and Chevy Soon to Team up For Development of Special-Edition Pickup

It would not be a typical day here at the Mid-Missouri Powerhouse if customers weren't displaying a heavy amount of interest in trucks: with so many off-road and urban-flavored models coming out and onto the lot so fast, there is now so much available for every unique taste. Last week we were excited for the announcement of a Carhartt Special Edition of the Silverado HD pickup for 2020, after so much positive response to show trucks the duo have completed in the past. Founded in 1889, Carhartt saw its beginnings as a unique work-wear manufacturer for railroad workers and has grown by leaps and bounds since.

 

The new model will be based on the 2500 LTZ crew cab and comes equipped with the Z51 off-road package. The color offering will be black, and the model will feature Carhartt gold stripes logos. Inside you'll find black leather upholstery accented with inserts that were inspired by some of the coolest Carhartt Brown signature jackets, and the rollup bed cover sports the Carhartt logo as well. When we reflected for a moment on why this partnership is so special, we looked at the offerings on the company website for gear and took some time to appreciate  how tough and resilient this product line is. These are accessories so durable you can take them to any rugged corner of the globe!

With the holidays right around the corner, you may be wanting to give gifts that are a bit more unique, and ones that possess a sense of everyday usefulness. Check out the Carhartt website here for some of the most rugged and unique belts, wallets, and other accessories out there. While the chestnuts begin to roast and the desserts and sweets come out in droves for the season, you can also come right down to see us here at the Powerhouse to test-drive America's favorite truck, the Silverado. One of our bestselling models, it is the basis for special editions such as this one begin with and touts high dependability and excellent handling daily.

The gift of brand-new reliable transportation for the holidays is one that not only provides peace of mind but the ability for a growing family or student to be timely and productive. Just as much pleasure as we get out of watching the many YouTube videos showing veterans coming back to surprise their families during the holidays, we love to envision the smile on a recipient's face when they are shocked to see brand-new wheels at their disposal for 2020! we will provide you consistent updates right here on the blog about future partnership truck models such as this one, and we have been excited in every way to watch the progression of the full-sized truck as it successfully climbed the ladder to the top of the towing and hauling clique.

New Atlas Ranks 2019 Blazer as “Upscale, Confident, and Exciting”

As the reports and various auto news outlets online confirmed that the Blazer surely was coming back last year, all of us here at the Mid-Missouri Powerhouse instantly became excited. When more spy shots became available it was evident that heavy styling cues were taken from the Camaro, and as soon as the Blazer hit showrooms, it gained massive attention. It is not quite the same Blazer's personality and flair from the 1990s, and resides in the sweet spot between the smaller Equinox and larger Traverse.

Auto writer Aaron Turpen of New Atlas took a lengthy spin and claimed that the very comfortable ride, excellent infotainment system, and stately drive quality were all traits that swayed him off the bat to give the Blazer very high marks. The trim selection begins with the base level “L”, then on up to Blazer, with the highest being RS and Premier. Engine choices are the 2.5-liter 4-cylinder that cranks out 193 horsepower and 188 lb-ft of torque, while higher trim levels derive power from a 3.6-liter 6-cylinder engine that doles out 305 horsepower and 269 lb-ft of torque. The nine-speed automatic transmission handles shifting duty, and all-wheel-drive is an option with the two top trim levels.

The New Atlas group had the pleasure of driving the 2019 Blazer equipped with the top-of-the-line Premier package, which includes forward-collision warning, adaptive cruise control, and pedestrian detection. They reflected that the 3.6-liter engine offered up aggressive performance straight from the line and that the drive quality and handling were excellent by current standards. Tech lovers are going to feel right at home with the Blazer's four USB ports as well as top-notch infotainment system. Aaron claimed that this infotainment system was also his “favorite in the business”, due to very responsive touch, and extras such as Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.

With the towing equipment installed and V6 engine, the Blazer can lug a very impressive 4,500 lbs, and the gang's overall report was that after a few lengthy test drives that this is a vehicle with a satisfying and comfortable drive, A+ interior, and practical daily drive dynamic. Coming with the 2020 model will be a turbocharged 4-cylinder option, and we hope that we can see you here this fall to test drive and rank the Blazer for your own opinion's sake!

As we take a moment to remember our favorite Blazers through the years, one of the models we loved most was the S-10 Blazer from 1982: offered in a two-door body style, this was warmly referred to many times over as the “Drummer's choice”. Many percussionists found great usefulness in the hybrid of large car and truck, as well as ample storage space for their equipment. We will share with you more in-depth reviews and test drive experiences with the new Blazer as they continue to find their way into our newswires, and can't wait for you to come to check out closely just how feature-rich and performance-driven the new Blazer is!

Sneak Peek at Army-Grade Colorado ZR2 Midsize Military Supply Contender

The landscape near and dear to us right here at the Mid-Missouri Powerhouse can bring us to think of the duties a truck would have when faced with tasks such as Frank Castle From the Marvel Series “The Punisher” encounters daily. When it comes to the troops we firmly support, a truck needs to boast features that aid in the task of moving troops around on the ground safely, with a successful mission in mind. Chevy has now landed a $1 million contract to build two very cool midsize trucks for the U.S. Army, and you can see photos here that depict the ZR2-based Infantry Squad Vehicle that is being considered.

The trucks scrap the traditional pickup profile for an open-top nine-passenger troop-toting configuration, with three rows of seating in addition to two side-facing seats in the rear. Four-point harnesses are also added along to the military-grade mix, and there are no doors at all, just a roll cage with attachments for various gear. The truck will also strap itself usefully right under a UH-60 helicopter for a quick lift, which is commonly needed in areas that see frequent combat.

The vehicle shares 70 percent of its parts with the 4x4 Colorado ZR2, including the suspension that features track-grade Multimatic DSSV shocks. Special attention during the design phase allows for very high-speed running and jumping, both of which could mean the difference between life and death during combat. The customer-grade ZR2 is available with a gasoline V6, but these test trucks are putting to use the optional 2.8-liter 4-cylinder turbodiesel engine, rated at 186 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque. GM Defense President Davit Albritton said over the past week that “this particular ISV entry is a fully-integrated platform that leverages decades of engineering, manufacturing, and quality expertise at scale to provide the most cost-efficient, reliable and effective answer possible to meet and exceed the Army's demanding requirements”.

Testing of the trucks will begin during November at the Army's Aberdeen Center in Maryland, where they will be competing against various submissions for a contract to be awarded during spring. The winner of this contract will be slated to build 651 vehicles through 2024, providing ample supply in high numbers for the men and women out there on the front lines making sacrifices for our nation. The off-road stance is absolutely what is needed to provide the best in-vehicle assistance for those who best know that freedom doesn't come without a price, and are out there offering up their talents every day to keep our country safe. We'll keep you posted right here on the blog as news develops, and keep our fingers crossed regarding this chance to supply our best and brightest during the call of duty.

2021 Chevy Colorado To see Updates With Aggressive Look, Dune-Ready Style

Right here at the Mid-Missouri Powerhouse during fall, many of our long-time customers are telling us that they are eager to not just navigate through their daily commute, but explore the abundant off-road options and precarious trails that our state has to offer. The Chevy Colorado is a solid option for anyone in the market looking at a midsize truck, and details regarding the 2021 version have been lighting up the newswires and web. The changes for 2021 are focused on appearance, and mechanical specs are expected to remain the same.

The new look is aimed at sealing the gap a bit between the Colorado and full-size trucks and help it stand out with a bit more stance and stature. Z71, WT, and LT trims will now see an updated front fascia with a new layout, logos, and skid plate. The first two will see the addition of a Chevy bowtie badge finished in gold, while the off-road Z71 will sport a black bowtie. All Colorados will see the addition of a new tailgate that has embossed Chevrolet lettering, as appearing currently on the Silverado 1500 and 2500 HD.

The Colorado ZR2 is top-of-the-level and always finely-tuned for trails, and it sees a few revisions to keep it tough and competitive. There is still a trim-specific fascia that keeps the front tires a bit more exposed for approach angles you'd most likely encounter in the wild. The grille is wider and more open as well, now featuring cut out Chevy lettering that easily allows for more airflow. Lifted suspension, much wider track, and huge knobby tires are the main components that allow for such stellar performance off-road, and skid plates, as well as red tow hooks, help round out the purpose perfectly.

Also brand new to the ZR2 and Z71 is the “Sand Dune Metallic” beige exterior paint, which will look better under each new layer of dust it collects while traversing dunes! The ZR2 is not scheduled to debut until the SEMA show in November, but there is already a competition-ready version built to fend its way during the 2019 Laughlin Desert Classic, a challenging off-road race held on the challenging sands of southern Nevada. We had a full-on midsize pickup truck renaissance on our hands when we launched the current-generation Colorado for the 2015 model year, and one of the main reasons why it will see an upgrade for the 2021 model year is to provide a bit more differentiation between trim levels.

We are fully aware that the full-size truck still slays and is always going to be an offering that many tried and true customers will gravitate towards.  We encourage you to check out an option a little more midsize and off-road-ready this fall, and see just how exciting it is to plow through dirt, climb boulders, and race through rapids in a desolate location that has long been calling your name!

Auditory Exploration With the 2020 Chevy Corvette: Bellowing Pipes at Thunderhill West

Road and Track has been involved deep into the duty of gathering data for its annual Performance Car of the Year feature, and included a pre-production 2020 Chevy Corvette during testing at Thunderhill West. Esteemed guest Matt Farah from The Smoking Tire ran the brand new C8 around the two-mile track and also took video of the laps. There was a serious embargo on driving impressions in effect for just 4 more days and so he was not at liberty to discuss the Z51-equipped coupe's performance in detail, but the video does a pretty good job of depicting the C8's roar.

The sound in the cabin comes from the 6.2-liter LT2 V8 with 495 horsepower and 465 lb-ft of torque. At first listen, the bellow was described as “mild”, and why are we not offended? Because the C8 was not meant to be quite the roaring stallion that you see from the likes of Maserati or Ferrari in regards to pure piping sound enjoyment. But hold on! One only needs to remember that all of this comes at just a fraction of the price that you would fork out for the others

There is a very distinct difference between fake engine noise and exhaust note frequency augmentation, and this is where some have had debate this fall. The active noise cancellation sound system on board does employ a tiny bit of frequency augmentation of the exhaust's note, because the pipes are now experiencing a muffling of sorts by the engine itself. The pipes are also now placed way behind the driver's ears, and its a proven fact that sound pressure drops with the square of distance. But Chevy did not create this just for the coming of our mid-engine marvel: the C7 actually incorporated the same system.

The new car actually relies on the engine itself for all of the of the audio, but with pass-by requirements and the multiple cavities that exist between the driver and exhaust tips some frequencies are lost and have the need to be supplemented. With all of these elements at play, it can understandably be a tough battle for an auto manufacturer to win! New global regulations, the bottom line and concerns revolving around production can have an effect on the final exhaust note as it triumphantly roars after ignition. It's not just the roar of the exhaust that you'll love from the new Corvette: the fun is just beginning from the mid-engine standpoint and this car will be the star of headlines for many months to come here at the Mid-Missouri Powerhouse and nationwide!

2020 Chevy Silverado 1500 Midnight, Rally Trims Unveiled During Lone Star State's Fair

Since everything about the all-American truck from the frame on down to the safety features began to change drastically, opportunities to concoct special editions have been plentiful. Many customers right here at the Mid-Missouri Powerhouse have told us just how much the option of custom trim makes the truck become their own, an important sentiment when you put it in gear in the morning and lurch forward to take on the day's challenges! The popular Midnight and Rally editions are now being brought back to the 2020 Silverado 1500 and saw their debut during the State Fair of Texas.

The 2020 Silverado Midnight Edition is offered on the Custom Trail Boss and LT Trail Boss trims, and sports a perfectly menacing all-black theme. It also provides black 18-inch wheels, badges, grille, bumpers, exhaust tips, steps, and very recognizable bowtie. The recovery hooks have not seen a change, and are easily spotted by their bright red color. The LT Trail Boss Midnight Edition derives power from the 6.2-liter V8 that cranks out 420 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque and is paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. It also is characterized by very high-intensity LED headlamps with dark bezels and daytime running lights.

We have to admit that everyone here at the Powerhouse prefers the Midnight over the Rally Edition, as it is off-road ready, rugged, and true to form. But The Silverado 1500 Rally Edition was made for those who appreciate an urban look and is offered on the Custom as well as RST trims. It's available in Black, Red Hot, Silver Ice Metallic, or Summit White exterior paint. This edition keeps the body-colored grille, but seed the addition of black stripes on the hood and tailgate, black badging, black bowties, black exhaust tips, assist steps, and black Chevy lettering on the tailgate.

If you love some of the other aggressive and street-ready Chevy offerings like the Camaro, the Rally edition may be the perfect way for you to add a dose of urban flavor to your favorite truck. Both of the Rally editions can be had with the 2.7-liter turbo-four engine that is paired with an 8-speed automatic, and the RST Rally Edition can also be powered utilizing the 5.3-liter V8, or 6.2-liter V8.

Both the Midnight and Rally editions will be available for order during October, and see arrival at dealerships later this year. It is amazing to see just how the raw essence of a simple pickup can be altered drastically, and both of these new choices are on tap to add the ultimate in flavor and style to what we believe is the finest and most capable truck on the globe!

Chevy Traverse Pitted Against Chevy Tahoe by Autoguide.com

The Autoguide staff chose a stellar story topic this past week when they had their eyes set on the two largest and most powerful SUVs from our brand. Both the Tahoe and Traverse can haul three rows of passengers when properly equipped, and most models see the massive power available able to be sent to all four wheels. The Tahoe is known as unforgivably large and commandeering, and for heartily offering up the sensation that you're “going to get there in safety and style no matter what”.

The first order of business for comparison between the two was the engines under the hood: the Traverse offers a 3.6-liter V6 and a turbocharged inline-four. The 3.6-liter cranks out 300 horsepower while also serving up 266 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are paired to a nine-speed automatic, and the inline-four generates 257 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque. Buyers that choose the 2020 Tahoe have a range of V8s at their disposal: the base 5.3-liter V8 makes 355 hp, and 383 lb-ft of torque, while employing an active fuel management system that will halt the action of cylinders to conserve fuel.

This is the exact same powertrain found in the GMC Sierra, and the writers of this feature happened to prefer the optional 6.2-liter V8 which is paired to a 10-speed automatic and puts out 420 hp and 460 lb-ft of torque. Since the testing team here were understandably big fans of the old-school V8 bellow, they were prone to enjoying the audio-sensory benefits that can only derive from a larger block. 

As you may expect, all-wheel drive can offer up a bit of a fuel economy penalty regarding any large three-row vehicle. You can count on about 18 mpg during most city driving, and the turbocharged model manages to break the 20 mpg mark in town while holding down 26 mpg during highway jaunts. You may eventually gravitate towards the Tahoe if you prefer a traditional SUV, and the 6.2-liter doesn't need to work as hard while hauling a huge load. The Traverse heads up the team's challenge here in terms of finished bodywork and an efficient engine.

Minus the sunroof, the Traverse sports 41.3 inches of headroom in the front row, and the legroom checks in at 41 inches up front, 38.4 inches in the middle, and 33.5 inches all of the way in the back. When dealing with the proportions of a vessel such as the Tahoe, it's important to realize that “big on the outside means big on the inside”, and the first-row headroom beats out the Traverse by 1.5 inches. The bottom line that the Autoguide.com staff had regarding daily tasks is that the Traverse is the way to go for hauling around any more than 5, due to its extra-spacious third row.

The Traverse boasts second and third rows that open up an impressive 98 cubic feet of storage space, and towing capability maxed out at 5000 with the V6 and additional trailering packages. Sporting a very noticeable jaw and defined lines, the Tahoe looks like an SUV through and through. A restyle a few model years ago set it apart a bit from the Silverado, and it can fend for itself aesthetically on a whim. If you are coming to see us here at the Mid-Missouri Powerhouse looking to trade up from a smaller car, you will probably feel most comfortable in the Traverse, while those replacing a pickup truck would practically opt for the Tahoe. We hope you come down to see us soon and decide which of these rigs will be best for your family's fleet, and pick the best of the large-sized bunch!

Sworn Rival Reconnaissance: Hardcore Silverado on the Way to Do Battle with Ford F-150 Raptor

The knowledgeable staff on duty at Muscle Cars and Trucks blog weighed in on a groundbreaking story this week: a very hardcore Silverado truck called the ZRX is reportedly under development and will be rugged enough to do battle with sworn rival Ford's F-150. Many elements will be borrowed from the Colorado ZR2, and rumor has it that it will be even more extreme than the Silverado Trail Boss. While still not 100% official, the publication says that the truck will be outfitted with an off-road-focused suspension that sports Multimatic DSSV Dampers.

The truck is also rumored to brandish front and rear locking differentials, as well as vastly improved departure angles and approach, two elements  needed to properly take on the Raptor. It is still not entirely clear whether the improvements will stem from the suspension alone, and its entirely possible that a modified front bumper could be added to this aggressive and off-road-ready mix. Other potential highlights on deck include exclusive wheels wrapped in 31-inch Goodyear Wrangler Duratrac off-road tires, a revised hood, and new grille.

The Raptor brandishes a twin-turbo 3.5-liter V6 that cranks out 450 hp, and 510 lb-ft of torque, and to aggressively take part in the brash battle, the new Chevy may feature carryover engines such as a 6.2-liter V8 that doles out 420 hp and 460 lb-ft of torque. Even though this is significantly less than what the competition will boast, we could also be given the grunty gift of a 3.0-liter Duramax turbodiesel that cooks up 277 hp and 460 lb-ft of torque. If development and design go smoothly, the off-road-focused and heavy-duty truck could be launched in time for the 2022 offerings.

All of us here at the Mid-Missouri Powerhouse deemed this exciting enough news to want to follow up closely on, and after researching it online, found that GM does absolutely have an application for the ZRX moniker pending as of August 15. Said registration covers “motor land vehicles, namely automobiles, SUVs, trucks, vans, engines therefor, and structural parts thereof”.

The battle in all truck slots for sales is red-hot right now: many of our reliable sources in the industry thought a year or so ago that this may be for the return of a street performance pickup, but we admit we are more excited about anything off-road ready. We also understand that owning a brand-new truck is going to make you eager to get in the saddle and put the miles on, and it's why we offer the best warranties in the business! We hope that we see you here at the Powerhouse this fall where you can check out the existing models thoroughly, and see what a great addition to your home or business the Silverado will be.

2021 Chevy Equinox Spy Shots Provide Glimpse of New Fascia Design

The knowledgeable and savvy folks on staff at GM Authority have been covering the refresh that will take place on the 2021 Chevy Equinox for the current, third-generation compact crossover. These recent spy shots sent to us here at the Mid-Missouri Powerhouse provide another look at the upcoming CUV's front and rear fascias, and other highlights such as an all-new front-end. You can see the influence from Chevy's latest crossover design and styling language that was introduced on the new Chevy Blazer and Chevy Trailblazer crossovers, but the design of the refreshed equinox probably won't be as over the top aggressive as it was on these two.

The 2021 Chevy Equinox is also expected to sport a brand new two-tiered headlamp design. Its a bit hard to make out under the camouflage, but it looks as though it incorporates a two-tier layout similar to what is found in the new Blazer, though, still not quite as edgy. The 2021 Equinox will likely include a new grille, forward-facing camera, and rectangular cutout located at the bottom of the camo on the front grille. The profile itself does not see any change from the last model, and in the rear is a new set of horizontally-oriented tail lamps, with the lit-up graphic resembling the U-shaped elements that are found on the 2020 Blazer.

We would expect to see a few various updates to the cabin, and the introduction of more active safety features. The current three-generation Equinox already uses Chevy's latest, third-generation infotainment technology, so there probably won't be too many changes to be had in the infotainment category. Under the hood, it's expected that the 2021 Chevy Equinox should offer the same line of turbocharged 4-cylinder gasoline engines, including the 1.5-Liter LYX 4-cylinder, and 2.0-Liter LTG 4-cylinder. The1.6-Liter LH7 Turbodiesel 4-cylinder will continue to wait it out for a brief breather on the sidelines after it was discontinued for the 2020 model year.

A six-speed transmission handled shifting duties within the 2020 model year's lower-end trims, but the GM 9-speed automatic is expected to replace this inside the 2021 model. There are also rumors of a high-performance Equinox variant, and even though we have not yet seen evidence it makes sense: this is the SUV on the smaller size for the budget-minded consumer would surely see wild excitement about above-average acceleration as an additive.

Only the Silverado truck moves more units than the Equinox, and its versatility remains part of its wide-reaching charm. This is also the SUV that heartily topped the competition in initial and long-term quality in the J.D. Powers Dependability Study for 2019, proving its namesake resilience as well as reliability.

Transformation of an Automotive Lifetime: Business Insider Covers the C8's Supercar Status

All of us here at the Mid-Missouri Powerhouse would have to agree with the opening statement that Business Insider made during an article about the new C8 Corvette last week, claiming that it was one of the most “notorious scene-stealers in the history of cinema”. Always recognizable and now sporting a mid-engined model, this is a car that has undergone a crucial change that drastically changes its face and functionality. Even as the supercharged Z06 and ZR1 versions were high on the horsepower factor, it had not quite yet climbed all of the way up the ladder into the status quo reserved for supercars such as the Lamborghini and Ferrari namesakes. 

The choice to release a mid-engined model was one that Business Insider staff writer Daniel Gessner agrees created a car that can definitely hang in the big leagues. Since its very first introduction in 1953, the Corvette has been no stranger to constant change, as it morphed from a slick street cruiser into a very high-powered and sought-after race car. So many fervent fans out there simply could not contain their excitement when the 2019 ZR1 came out with guns blazing full-force, and a 755 horsepower engine under its hood.

Even with all of this raw power available to it, the current Corvette design was holding it back from reaching its true potential. After some very productive time back at the drawing board, the iconic sports car was redesigned, and the benefits of relocating the engine finally became a reality instead of just concepts diagrams. One of the largest benefits of mid-engined placement is seen in the car's handling and braking. At this position, the weight is evenly distributed between the front and rear wheels, which allows direction to be changed quicker.

Another benefit of the mid-engine design is regarding the all-important acceleration factor. Once you add horsepower and torque to an engine, the mass is increased as well. When it comes to a rear-wheel-drive vehicle, the engine is sitting on top of your front axle and is putting far less weight on the wheels that all the power is coming from, there is really only so much faster that the car will be able to go. This was what happened with the ZR1: even with a huge engine at its disposal, it was not always performing much better than previous-generation models.

One of the most staggering marvels in modern engineering is the pricing difference between the Corvette's base model and the Ferrari 458. Even though they are both similar as far as mechanics and performance go, the Corvette comes in at an astonishing $180,000 cheaper. Even though we know that Corvette fans are not necessarily in need of a bargain-basement markdown, the fact that the C8 can offer up this much with its allocated resources is a feat that should amaze any fan of screeching tires and tightly-wrapped torque stats: the many years in the making concerning this car made it an immediate symbol of engineering success!

GM Authority's Labor Day Feature: 2020 Chevy Equinox Standard Active Safety Suite

The crossover SUV category is absolutely on fire in terms of popularity, sales, and the very stiff competition it faces. Very popular models like the Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V are on the front lines ready to do battle this fall with the Chevy Equinox we love so much right here at the Mid-Missouri Powerhouse. On the GM Authority blog this week, there is a feature that closely outlines the number of updates and changes the 2020 Equinox will have, as well as a brand-new set of standard safety features.

The following features are now all standard across all 2020 Equinox equipment groups and trim levels: Automatic Emergency Braking, Forward Collision Alert, Following Distance Indicator, Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning, Forward Automatic Braking, and Intellibeam Headlamps. This marks a very large change for Chevy and the way the vehicles are now offered: now providing these as standard equipment really sets the brand we love to represent every day apart from others, and puts us far ahead of the curve. Active safety technology has become a prime wish for consumers, and much more of an everyday expectation for newer cars.

The 2020 Chevy Equinox will be offered in four trim levels: L, LS, LT, and Premier. Engine options will feature the turbocharged 1.5-liter LYX inline four-cylinder which generates 170 horsepower, as well as the turbocharged 2.0-Liter LTG inline 4-cylinder hard at work cranking out 252 horsepower. These will be paired to either the GM 6-speed or 9-speed transmission, allowing for smooth shifting and the best in gear management systems out there!

When asked which of these features that will now be made standard we have had our eyes on the most, it is hard not to ignore Automatic Braking: this is an amazing system that will take charge and automatically apply the vehicle's brakes to avoid a crash entirely or help reduce the severity and impact. It is made up of Front and Rear Automatic braking and incorporates Rear Park Assist ultrasonic sensors and 1 or 2 short-range radars placed behind the rear bumper to get the job done.

Tailgating has been recognized as an issue that dominates the pet peeve list of many in cities nationwide and can lead to severe road rage as well as accidents. Following Distance Indicator is a technology that constantly aids the driver in keeping a safe following distance from the vehicle ahead. It uses the vehicle's Forward Collision Alert sensors to provide the driver with an accurate following time to let them know if they are indeed following too close. The system is set to display a minimum following time of .5 seconds, and is also great for teen drivers: many of those on the younger end of the driving spectrum tend to not be as aware of their surroundings in terms of distance.

2021 Chevy Suburban Caught in the Wild Via Motor Authority Spy Shots

The season is bearing down upon us here at the Mid-Missouri Powerhouse where there may be good reason for even more outings in numbers than summer: crisp temps, the promise of high-octane sporting events, and the festive holidays that come up quick in November. The Suburban is a great choice for carting friends and loved ones around in numbers, and a prototype for the 2021 model was just spotted in camouflage by the Motor Trend blog staff revealing clues about what the upcoming SUVs appearance.

Chevy's full-size fleet will now be redesigned around the T1 body-on-frame platform for SUVs and pickups, and will be instrumental in helping the new Suburban ultimately shed close to 300 pounds. The 2019 Chevy Silverado and GMC Sierra 1500 was where the T1 platform made its debut last year, and we have been notified by numerous sources that after the redesigned Suburban arrives at dealerships as a 2021 model, it could be followed shortly by a redesigned version of the smaller Tahoe. Even with the task at hand of peering through the heavy camo gear on this Suburban prototype, it looks like many elements of the front including the headlight treatment have been borrowed from the latest Silverado, the front-running and most capable heavy-duty truck in the nation.

We know that the engineers were hunkered for some time over technical documents in the break room discussing how to take extreme measures to hide the rear axle, and we applaud the desire to hide as much as possible when it comes to a future model. But in these shots, it is evident that there is an independent rear suspension unlike what is situated in the current model. This will most likely make a noticeable difference in comfort, and exist as a direct response to Ford's latest setup in their new Expedition.

It may come as a shocker to a few, but there is a good chance that the new model line could consist of a 2.7-liter turbocharged inline 4-cylinder deactivation fitted... YES: that boils down in all bold-faced reality to a 4-cylinder Suburban! We fully understand that many will choose the 5.3-liter V-8 offered with the advanced Dynamic Fuel Management cylinder deactivation technology, that can alter the engine's firing between just one and all eight cylinders on its own high-tech whim.

Poised at the top of the range will most likely be the 6.2-liter V8 with 420 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque, currently available in Suburban RST trim. The Suburban is the longest continuous use auto nameplate still in production, seeing its  beginnings in 1935. Three rows of seating and a full pickup frame bring about quite a vibe go-anywhere prowess, and we have high hopes for the incoming model as reports about release continue!