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No shopping for us today. We got up showered and headed out for the 4 hour drive to my mom’s in Albuquerque. We pick up our rental car and find that Aveo may actually be french for ‘go kart’. We’re in a hurry so I push the little car up into the upper eighties and low nineties. This car is an automatic speed deterrent. As soon as I pass the 80 mph mark, something on the passenger side starts making a sound halfway between a whistle and a screech. It continues until I let off and fall back to 79 mph. We finally arrive a little after 4pm with everyone waiting for us. We have some cheese and shrimp and snacks before we get into the real feasting. We all eat far more than is healthy and retreat to the living room to open presents before we tuck into the 5 pies my mother made. Sergio does so well during dinner, he is cordial and polite and minds his manners and refrains from uncomfortable discussion topics. He even left the area when he needed to fart (he had a solid mexican breakfast). I’m very proud of him.

Sergio and I go to Walmart to pick up a few things we couldn’t take on the plane and that brings us to now. We’re quietly enjoying the kind of silence that you can really only get in deeply rural areas, the kind where you can hear the blood rushing past your eardrums. I take the opportunity to write uninterrupted and he digs into the first book he’s picked up since college. It’s called Freakonomics and he says it’s good. I’ll be reading it when he’s done since I’ve already chewed through most of the small library I have brought along.

2011 Ford Mustang vs 2010 Chevrolet Camaro

Sports Cars

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With the all new Chevrolet Camaro finally making it to production earlier this year, the Mustang was given a real challenger. The Camaro returned after a long seven year break coming back with retro looks and powerful engines. Both the Camaro’s V6 and V8 engines trumped the Mustang’s engines in horsepower and torque by a fairly large margin but all that is about to change. The 2011 Mustang adds a new 3.7L V6 and 5.0L V8 that improve power to the Camaro’s levels while also providing better fuel economy.

Chevy Impala Levels— 2010 LS, LT and LTZ

Operated Engines: 3.5L and 3.9L V6 engines, both with E85 FlexFuel capability and Variable Valve Timing.

Automatic Transmission: 4-speed automatic transmission

Wheel Drive system: all wheel-drive system.

Other Key features: Impala 2010 comes with standard StabiliTrak Stability and upgraded content on the volume selling 1LT; segment-exclusive flip-and-fold rear seats with their convenient storage tub and grocery bag hooks.

FORD TAURUS

Ford Taurus is a large vehicle with spacious interior and roomy trunk with totally new look in 2010.

Ford Taurus Levels: SE, SEL and Limited trim levels.

Engines operated: 263 hp 3.5L V6; 365 hp 3.5L Ecoboost V6 motivates the new Taurus SHO

Automatic Transmission: 6-speed Select Shift automatic transmission.

Wheel Drive system : All-wheel drive is available in the Taurus SHO, SEL and Limited trim levels

Other Key features: Most Expensive trim level offers new electronic safety measures such as Adaptive Cruise Control, Blind Spot Information System, Cross Traffic Alert and Collision Warning with Brake Alert ; SEL mid-level trim offers SYNC system to connect cell phones and media players; keyless ignition, massaging front seats and Sony 5.1 Surround Sound audio

DODGE CHARGER

Dodge Charger was introduced in year 2006 has muscle-car styling to make it different from its sibling Chrysler 300. This style may remain same in models of year 2010 but will upgrade in terms of better performance.

Dodge Charger Levels: R/T; SE; SRT8

Engines operated: SE model will have 2.7L V6; R/T model will have standard 370 hp 5.7L HEMI V8 with fuel-saving Multi-Displacement System (MDS); SRT8 will have top-line 425 hp 6.1L HEMI.

Automatic Transmission: SE model with 4-speed automatic transmission; R/T and SRT8 model with 5-speed automatic transmission.

Wheel Drive system: all wheel-drive system is available in R/T and SRT8 models.

Other Key features: Stability control, traction control and ABS continue will be extra-cost on the SE and expected basics as satellite radio and hands-free calling are not available.

HYUNDAI AZERA

Hyundai Azera was introduced in year 2006 upgraded with styling tweaks in year 2009 which is unchanged in year 2010

Hyundai Azera Levels: GLS and Limited powered models

Engines operated: 3.3L V6 available in GLS powered; 3.8L V6 with Limited powered.

Automatic Transmission: 5-speed automatic transmission

Wheel Drive system: all wheel-drive system.

Other Key features: luxury, space and refinement with more space.

CHRYSLER 300

In 2005, Chrysler 300 was introduced which remained unchanged since that time.

Dodge RAM Levels: Regular, Touring, Limited and C

Engines operated: 2.7L V6 available in Touring and Limited model; 5.7L HEMI V8 on the 300C model

Automatic Transmission: 4-speed automatic transmission

Wheel Drive system: all wheel-drive system

Other Key features: upgraded in 2010 with its polarizing long-hood, short-deck fashioning enhanced with chrome doorway manages reflectors and—on the Touring model— chrome narrow pieces on front and back fascias. Except for the catch-up addition of benchmark head-curtain edge air sacks, central alterations are negligible as well and booked for the top-end 300C, which adds benchmark back reserve aid and keyless application and ignition.

Customers often come in after Christmas and ask our Sales Staff how their Christmas celebration was or what they did during the holidays.  Well you don’t have to wonder what our Salesmen did this year.  This year our sales staff put in a lot of extra rehearsal hours during the holidays trying to get this Christmas dance just right and we shot this video on location up at the North Pole.

We hope everyone out there has a safe & happy holiday season!!!

The Chevrolet Avalanche has a unique Midgate design with an ability to transform from luxurious 5-6 passenger SUV into a tough full-sized pickup truck. It is the vehicle which is incomparable due to this unique Midgate feature. It has created the benchmark giving combination such as spacious interiors, powerful fuel efficient engines and Midgate feature.

Chevrolet Avalanche Levels: LS, LT and the high-end LTZ

Operated Engines: 5.3L V8 engine powerful enough includes Active Fuel Management™ to help increase the fuel economy.

Automatic Transmission: 6-speed automatic transmission; first gear is sharp for excellent off-the-line performance; sixth gear is tall overdrive for smooth, efficient highway cruising.

Wheel Drive system: 5-link rear suspension design delivers a smoother ride while standard StabiliTrak with Proactive Roll Avoidance and a locking rear differential provide superior traction and control in all driving conditions.

Other Key features: Standard head-curtain side-impact air bags for safety; standard Ultrasonic Rear Parking Assist; Rearview Camera System. Upgraded 2010 model has audio systems with USB port for the connection to playback music devices.

FORD F-150

The F-150 was latest updated in 2009 with a face-lifted exterior which is carry forward in 2010 with F-150 SFE model with some efficiency enhancements.

F-150 Levels: XL, STX, XLT, FX2, FX4, Lariat, King Ranch models.

Engines operated: 4.6L 2-valve V8; 4.6L 3-valve V8; 5.4L 3-valve FlexFuel V8.

Automatic Transmission: 4.6L 2-valve V8 have 4-speed automatic transmission; 4.6L 3-valve V8 and the 5.4L V8 engines include 6-speed automatic transmission.

Wheel Drive system: Drivetrain includes rear-wheel drive or parttime four-wheel drive; Harley-Davidson models include an all wheel-drive system.

Other Key features: Optional Sony audio system; SYNC; with voice activation for Bluetooth-enabled cell phones and MP3 players; reverse camera system that displays the picture in the rearview mirror or the navigation system screen; Solution package to keep track of all the tools working in the truck with the help of computer and radio-frequency tagging system.

HONDA RIDGELINE

Ridgeline is designated as truck for them who require small cargo bed with 5000-lb towing capacity. It is more common with passenger cars than tough pickup trucks.

Honda Ridgeline Levels: RT, RTS and RTL

Engines operated: 3.5L SOHC V6

Automatic Transmission: 5-speed automatic transmission.

Wheel Drive system: all wheel-drive system.

Other Key features: dual-action tailgate opening like a standard tailgate and swings to the side like a door; unique waterproof in-bed trunk; RTL model offers in-dash navigation system; Bluetooth and rear view camera.

TOYOTA TUNDRA

Toyota Tundra comes with multiple changes in year 2010 includes new exterior with redesigned grille and tail lamps; two new optional audio systems is added with the three existing systems.

Toyota Tundra Levels: Regular, Double and CrewMax cab models

Engines operated: 4.0L V6 available in Regular Cab; all-new 4.6L V8 and a 5.7L V8 with FlexFuel version in 5.7L V8 engine.

Automatic Transmission: 4.6L and 5.7L come with a 6-speed automatic transmission; 4.0L V6 comes with 5-speed automatic transmission.

Wheel Drive system: all wheel-drive system.

Other Key features: New Work Truck package contains vinyl seats and rubber flooring available in Regular and Double Cab models; new Platinum package contains luxury features such as heated and ventilated seats, a sunroof and wood grain trim.

DODGE RAM

In 2009, Dodge was introduced Dodge Ram focusing on power, fuel economy. “RamBox” storage compartments integrated into the sides of the cargo bed and a coil-spring rear suspension was altogether a new feature. But the RamBox is expensive and reduces cargo bed capacity. There was a coil-spring suspension that gives a smoother ride but again at the expense of payload and trailertowing capability.

Dodge RAM Levels: Regular, Quad and Crew Cab models with 5 trim levels ST, SLT, TRX, Sport and Laramie

Engines operated: 3.7L V6; 4.7L V8; 5.7L V8

Automatic Transmission: 3.7L V6 come with a 4-speed automatic transmission; 4.7L V8 and 5.7L V8 comes with 5-speed automatic transmission.

Wheel Drive system: part-time system and an on-demand system

Other Key features: In 2010 version has integrated trailer brake controller and an iPod connection in the glove box

2010 Chevrolet Camaro exterior has a long hood and short rear deck. The front end comes with honeycomb grille, and the rear has aggressively styled fenders with air intakes shaped liked gills and has five trim levels – LS,1LT,2LT,1SS and 2SS levels, where as Hyundai Genesis Coupe v-6 comes in three trim levels with two basic models, 2.o and 3.8 liter engine.  2010 Chevy Camaro comes with 6 speed manual and auto transmission W/OD.  Hyundai Coupe comes with two engines 210-hp 2.0 liter and 306-hp 3.8L where as 2010 Camaro comes with  superior 304-hp 3.L and 400-hp 6.2 liter fuel efficient engines.

2010 Camaro comes with additional key features such as auxiliary instrument panel near the shifter that indicates oil temperature, oil pressure, state of battery and transmission fluid temperature.

2010 Chevy Camaro Overview | Chevrolet
Get the latest reviews of the 2010 Chevrolet Camaro. … The Car Connection > Car Reviews > Chevrolet > 2010 > Camaro. Compare this car to others like it …

Chevy Camaro Review | Chevrolet
Read a full review of the 2010 Chevrolet Camaro. … Car and Driver agrees, praising the 2010 Chevy Camaro for its “evocative, …

First Drive: 2010 Chevrolet Camaro
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2010 Camaro SS Pace Car ready for Indy 500
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General Motors, automobile maker has decided to launch a new Chevrolet accessory that will convert cars into a hot-spot for Wi-Fi. This device will be called a Chevrolet Wi-Fi and the service will be provided by Autonet Mobile. The device is given on dealership basis and it will be installed in a dock inside the car, which is compatible to empower a 3G mobile Wi-Fi router that can interchanged between various vehicles. This device can be installed in Chevrolet’s Equinox, Traverse, Silverado, Tahoe, Suburban, Avalanche and Express cars. General Motors state that Chevrolet’s Wi-Fi can download at a speed of 1.5 mbps. It can be used by several people at one go. The Wi-Fi can be accessed by not only people sitting inside the car, but also those who are at a distance of 150 feet. Towards the end of 2009 the device will cost $199, but after a mail in rebate of $200 had been sent a two years service agreement has been signed. The service costs are $29 and $59 for downloading data up to 1GB  and 5GB, respectively, on a monthly basis.

Chevrolet and Autonet Mobile have proclaimed that they will be turning Chevrolet SUVs and Trucks into hot-spots for Wi-Fi connection. One can avail the services by getting a device installed by a dealer. This will ensure that one can access the net on their laptops, cell phones, etc, even on the move. These devices can only be fitted into seven models of Chevrolets, i.e. Tahoe, Suburban, Silverado, Express, Avalanche, Traverse and Equinox. Installation will cost $200 and monthly charges for the service will be $29, along with some unspecified costs. The internet cannot only be accessed from within, but also at a radius of 150 feet. Wi-Fi is convenient when one has to spend a lot of time on the road, such as for camping or tripping, etc.

Today, Chevy Camaro to make its debut at Indianapolis Auto Show.

Making an appearance for the sixth time at the race, Chevrolet Camaro made its first appearance in 1967 at the Indianapolis 500. It also made an appearance in 1969, 1982, 1993 and 2009, respectively. This new model of the Camaro will be sporting the look of the 1969 model, with the inferno orange metallic paint job and the white diamond rally stripes, but the new model will have a modern take on the original rally stripes. The new model had 400 horse power, V8 engine and 6.2 liter tank. Camaro will also have a RS appearance package and leather interiors with little inferno orange work. The new accessory that this Camaro will be featuring is the new front grille, which will be an exclusive Camaro accessory from now on. Safety strobe light system with customized light bar in the rear window, special logo branded on the headrests and front fenders and amber lens taillights are some the other features

A media preview was held by Chevrolet on Wednesday night at Motown to show their plans for the Detroit Auto Show, next month. The media invited over were allowed to discuss the plans shown to them in detail, but they were not allowed to take any pictures or videos. The presentation started with the introduction of the new General Manager of Chevrolet, Jim Campbell, who had taken up the post only a week ago. The director of exterior design Mike Simcoe along with Campbell took the next half an hour in showcasing the new batch of Chevrolet cars, whose designs had already been shown during the General Motor’s design dome last August. This batch included the upcoming Orlando MPV, Volt, Camaro Convertible, Cruze and the brand new Malibu 2012. These cars are bound to be present in the Chevrolet showrooms in the next two years. The new Orlando is almost the same as the 2008 version, except light cluster have been put in with great detailing.

Spark and Aveo will be making the entry-level end of the Bowtie’s lineup. Since there rumors of Spark program not taking place, Campbell ensured that Spark will make an appearance in 2011. The all new Aveo will be making an appearance for the first time at the Auto Show next month. The designs of the Aveo shown at the media release were exactly same as the design shown in August, except that this car has five-door hatchet. The new model and the old model look nothing alike. The old model had received a lot of criticism for its exterior design. But, hopefully the same would not follow for the new model. Simcoe described the exteriors of the car, as a look that facades ‘deliberate aggression’. The grille on the previous model was too big and this made the car look smaller. This time they have changed the look of the grille. The grille is shorter and wider, which has given the car a more ‘wide, planted stance’ by making the car look wider.

Aveo has four individual round lights, one for each corner and the flanks on the car reminds one of the structure of Spark, in terms of a less exaggerated look. It even has the hidden door handles on the C-pillar like the Spark. Simcoe expressed an aspiration for giving the new Aveo that includes the base model, a ‘hot-hatch’ look. Aveo’s direct competition is the Ford Fiesta and Honda Fit, it will be interesting to see the same target customer’s reaction to the new Aveo. When Aveo will be showcased in Detroit, it will be shown in its RS form and not the ‘hot-hatchet’ form. The RS version of the car will be powered by Eco Tec engine. But, no further details were provided, only the exteriors were explained in great detail. The rest of the details can only be presumed on the basis of the previous models, such as the 1.4 liter turbo present in the Cruz. If the car has 138 horse-power and 148 pound torque, then this car will be one heck of a ride on the road.

General Motors Flint south engine plant will be manufacturing the power-plant and the Orion assembly plant will be in charge of car making. The hatch will also have a four-door sedan, following the popular demand. Aveo in RS will be a sight to look at, during the Detroit Auto Show.

Chevrolet Aveo

This was supposed to be the best Christmas ever. We’ve got two new babies–Chevy and Warrick–in the family. Jake’s been home with us a year. We have so much to celebrate and were going to have a blast at mom and dad’s with all the kiddos.

But yesterday, Warrick (10 mos) took a spill down their wooden basement steps and hit his head on the (cement) floor. His mom and dad ended up taking an ambulance ride to Sparrow, Warrick has a fractured skull. After lots of tests and no sleep for his parents, the docs say he’s gonna be fine, but has to take it easy for 3-6 months while the break heals. The whole time at the hospital, Jason said Warrick was laughing and kissing the nurses.

Mom cancelled the party today, not only because of Warrick, but because April and Jake were SO sick with the stomach flu. So sick they called Erin and Tom to take little Jacob overnight on Christmas eve.

So,  even though we can’t have the party and open presents, it doesn’t take away the real reason it was going to be a great Christmas–that we are all (relatively) healthy and safe and that we have each other. I am so thankful for my 4 kids, my husband, my 5 nieces and nephews and all my siblings and in-laws and parents. God has really blessed us this year.

Here are some pictures from the Phillips’ Christmas morning. Santa was also good to us this year!

My present was not having to cook--we had Christmas Eve dinner at the Jade Garden

Chevy looks a little scared--I think by the camera flashes.

I asked each kid to hold up their favorite present and show me how much they like it.

Faith with her Christmas coat from Sally.

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January 2010 Incentives Toyota

January 2010 Incentives GM

The barbarian

In profile it appears to be leaning forward – revealing a restrained beast

Developed in koala country, the Lumina SS boasts a worldwide cult following. With the second largest engine capacity out of the lot, it’s one of the most manic sports sedans around. It is undoubtedly a muscle car and, with a massive 6-litre V8 Corvette engine powering its heavy chassis, it doesn’t mean the car is slow by any manner. It does go well on a straight line but the moment you start to put it through anything remotely resembling a corner, it grapples uncontrollably for traction. And, if caught unaware by the ferocity of its engine, you will most probably take out a street lamp with its side. But who buys a powerful sport sedan for its cornering prowess alone? You want something that has sufficient space, practical functionality and has enough power to excite your lady friend when overtaking 18-wheelers. Chevrolet has promised more attention to quality which is evident throughout its cabin space. The perforated leather seats and door panels supply comfort and flexibility. The exterior styling of the Lumina is undeniably muscular. In profile it appears to be leaning forward – revealing a restrained beast. Its broad posture and lowered ride height is finished off superbly with four exit pipes. This car goes like a rocket and what makes the experience even better is when the V8 screams out in reverberating splendour.

100km/h arrives in only 6.2 seconds

Go figure: This Lumina sends forth an outrageous power surge of 270kW and 530Nm, guaranteeing a visceral driving experience. These figures help it swallow 100km/h in 6.2 seconds and reach a top speed of 250km/h.

Verdict: For those who yearn to own a veritable muscle car, don’t miss out, as this might be the last time the Lumina (g)races our roads, given the current state of the global car industry.

Riding off the success of National Lampoon’s Vacation, Chevy Chase is back with more shenanigans in this Christmas-themed comedy.  This movie is surprisingly great for a sequel, featuring many jokes interlaced with a more tender theme.  Personally, I just love this movie, and I’m pretty sure everyone wishes they could kidnap and beat up their boss.  Though getting on in years, this movie still remains a holiday comedy classic.  Check it out.

Sciborg: 92

Rotten Tomatoes: 61

IMDb: 7.3/10

One of our reviewer has something to say about… Chevrolet:

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One of our bloggers has something to say about … Chevrolet at:

www.thecarmafia.com

Seems that a lot of people get into heated discussions on the topic of which company makes the better truck, so I thought I’d sit down with Jim and settle it once and for all.

2010 Ford Mustang GT Comparison Tests
2010 Chevy Camaro SS vs. 2010 Ford Mustang GT, 2009 Dodge… ” Page 4 … 2010 Chevy Camaro SS vs. 2010 Ford Mustang GT, 2009 Dodge Challenger R/T – Video …
2010 Chevy Camaro SS vs. 2010 Ford Mustang GT
Car and Driver offers exclusive car comparison tests. Check out our latest test of the 2010 Chevy Camaro SS vs. 2010 Ford Mustang GT, 2009 Dodge Challenger R/T …
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… Camaro SS, 2009 Dodge Challenger R/T and 2010 Ford Mustang GT. … 2010 Chevy Camaro SS vs. 2009 Dodge Challenger R/T vs. 2010 Ford Mustang GT. This Article …
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Transformers Autobots SKIDS and MUDFLAP Legends Class

Autobot SKIDS transforms into cool Chevy Beat Concept Mode  and MUDFLAP transforms into Chevy Trax Concept mode

GM should have hired these guys

For a second day in a row one of the Big 3 is making ‘Official’ news.  Today it’s Chevrolet at the LA Auto Show.  You know what, I’ll save you the preamble.  My only statement, besides the obvious hilarity of this video is,  what else would you expect from a broke ass car company that makes crappy cars?

Watch the video!

Way to go, GM and Chevy!  The Volt project is already way overbudget, and behind schedule.  Now, you have to contend with this Marketing joke.  Just do the American taxpayer and yourselves a favor and kill the project!  This is clear evidence that you are not serious about getting the company turned around.

Chevy 3800 Watercolor

This watercolor is based on photo I took of an old abandoned truck in Hadley. I could probably put in some more detail to try and make it pop a little more, but I’m ready to move on to something new. I added the white highlites with gouache. I was using china white, but it was too transparent. Then I got the idea to try and scratch the paint off the paper, but the china white was kind of tacky and didn’t come off easily. I don’t like using resist.

I transfered the drawing to the paper, but when I laid down my first wash it pulled up a lot of the pencil, so some of the lettering/shadows is a little rough. This painting was a good challenge – I’ll probably go back at some point and put some more detail some day.

I am now working on a painting of a caterpillar using the three new paints I bought – rose madder, naples yellow, and manganese blue. These paints seem very transparent, so this next painting will be delicate.

Click on pictures to Z O O M in.

While I was in college in Beaumont Texas in 1962-1968, many of my classmates had cars like this one. Some were four doors, some two doors and even one was a convertible. This car was a big hit for General Motors.

When Chevrolet introduced the 1955 Chevy in late 1954 it changed their history. What made the new Chevy so popular, then and now? It’s new 265 cubic inch V-8 was probably the most important feature in the motoring public’s eye. The 1955 Chevrolet also represented a completely new vehicle in styling and engineering. With its new styling and the option of a potent new “Turbo-Fire” V-8 it was the most changed Chevy and the most exciting car to ever wear the bowtie badge since WWII.

More Information, click here

© Fred Winograd copyright 2009