Dave Gill CHEVROLET

2010 Chevrolet Equinox

2010-01-30T06:49:00.000-05:00

2010 Chevrolet Equinox

Jay Leno explains the Chevy Volt!

2009-12-28T22:06:00.001-05:00

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LA 2009: 2011 Chevrolet Cruze, mass-market potential has four doors — Autoblog

2009-12-01T22:49:00.001-05:00

LA 2009: 2011 Chevrolet Cruze, mass-market potential has four doors — Autoblog

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2009-11-26T07:51:00.001-05:00

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2010 Chevy Equinox: Yes they can

2009-11-18T11:34:00.002-05:00

GM's New Crossover Might Be Its Best Car

by: Reilly Brennan AOL Autos

Oh, man. There aren't cars like this quite often. These are the sorts of things that you remember for a long, long time. We're not talking life-changing, but this is definitely in the category of significantly memorable. Sitting in that row at the ballgame where they hand the free hot dogs out. Hauling in the biggest fish on the boat. Winning the 50/50 raffle at the basketball game.

We've just returned from a week with the 2010 Chevrolet Equinox and we're happy to go on record as putting it up there with all that good stuff. You might think we're crazy, but it's not difficult for us to get excited about a vehicle like a crossover(that strange union of an SUVand a car). Since nearly every manufacturer makes one these days, they tend to get a lot of attention. But the reality is that most haven't been that inspiring. In fact, GMhas been in the crossover game for years, too, but nothing they produced ever came this close.

The Equinox changes all of that.

Not Their Time Of Dying

For all the quantum leaps that GM claimed over the last ten or so years, most of it was simply hot air: products that were incremental improvements relative to the rest of the industry (even if, internally, they were massive improvements over GM's previous model). All of these, save the Corvetteand its various performance-enhanced versions, could be described as adequate but never exceptional.

It sounds obvious, but: one secret to building great products is actually, first, knowing what great means. After years of GM's insistence that, say, the Pontiac G6 was a great product, a lot of people stopped believing them. Even if they had the tools, could they actually create a product that was, in all honesty, "great?" Many had their doubts.

The answer is, in fact: Yes They Can.

The Chevrolet Equinox is the first vehicle we've driven from GM outside of the Corvette that we dare to label as great. We believe there's actually no room for argument. Some things are just universally trusted without much debate: Heidi Klum's beauty, late-summer sunsets, a glazed donut. Damn near perfection. The Equinox is right there.

What Great Feels Like

This is the second generation of the Equinox, but we'll forgive you if you didn't pay much attention to the first generation model. That one, sold from 2004 to 2009, lacked character and didn't delight the user on the inside or outside; it had the soul of a rental car. The market was rife with better alternatives, too, from the Honda CR-V to the Ford Escape, to say nothing of the more sophisticated models from Lexusand the other luxury marques.

Given that as a starting point, it's remarkable that a sophomore effort on the Equinox name delivers so highly. Key to Equinox's success is a thoughtful collection of the following:

Actual fuel economy improvement: The Equinox gets 32 miles per gallon and up to 600 miles from a tank of gas. For a long time the notion of a crossover was nice in theory but in practice never materialized much in the way of saving money for the user; now an Equinox buyer can have an SUV shape and cargo space with sedan-like efficiency. This is big.

Use of higher-grade components: Direct-injection engines and six-speed transmissions cost a lot more money but allow for significant gains in fuel economy. The fact that Chevyis willing to spend the money to invest in these technologies at the Equinox price point is telling. (Cheat sheet: direct injection is an improvement from older engines as the fuel and air are directly injected into the cylinder, closer to where combustion happens and in a manner that's much smarter; six speed transmissions are more efficient because having more gears allow you to run the vehicle at lower engine speeds -- remember your bicycle?)

Design that's actually leading the market: It's difficult to pull off a contemporary design that finds universal appeal, but the new Equinox is at once handsome and proud without being fussy. GM's design impresario, Ed Welburn, is a cheerleader of simple, thoughtful designs and the Equinox is a shining example. Notice the lack of low-grade tacked-on plastic strips, strange design cut lines and other flourishes that we, sadly, became used to from GM throughout the 1990s and beyond.

An interior to be proud of: While GM's exterior design started coming on stream in the middle of the decade, its interiors did not. The new Equinox is perhaps the first interior we've seen from GM that delivers on its promise. This could be the best execution in the entire lineup, better even than GM's new-in-2008 Cadillac CTS, which many lauded for its interior (but we felt was artificially luxurious, with fits of chrome and vacant plastic touch spots). It feels perfect for the Equinox.

When you open up the door (which, by the way, feels like it's certainly heavy enough -- a very solid door tightly attached to its hinges, something that you won't actually find everywhere in the industry) and step inside, the first thing you'll notice is a very attractive waterfall center console, tightly organized between two long, trapezoidal air ducts. We could stand for fewer buttons (a dorm room boombox could be one analogy to the layout of the buttons on the radio and navigation system), but it is pleasing to look at. A nice, calming, liquid blue color is seen throughout the center console and instrument panel. It's a very sophisticated look and, for the half dozen passengers we carried around during our week, was without question the first cause for comment. The interior is a hit aesthetically.

Functionally, some parts of the interior could use some revisions, however. While there are available steering-wheel-mounted controls (the 2LT and LTZ models come standard with them), those who opt for using their elongated arm to control the radio will find those knobs just barely out of reach, something that's confounding at best and a bit of a safetyhazard at worst. Instead of placing the audio knobs closer to hand, Chevy put the temperature controls closest to the driver. All operations of the radio are just about an inch or two out of our reach, making us lean forward and hunt and peck for the knob while barreling down the freeway. This is something worth changing.

In addition to the ergonomics of the audio controls, we picked up on a few nagging quality issues that reminded us of "old GM," but they are so minor that we trust the company will see to a rapid fix. For example, the plastic piece surrounding the gear shift lever feels loosey-goosey and cheap. We hope this gets another look during the next model year.

It's perhaps a tribute to the Equinox's interior that the extent of our complaint is contained in the above notes. Every other aspect of the Equinox's interior -- from the comfortable seats (the rear sear seats have eight inches of travel, a nice touch for long rides) to the visibility (more than adequate, although like every car today we wish the front A-pillars were thinner) to the optional one-touch remote rear lift gate -- will surprise an unsuspecting Chevy shopper. It's packed with the sorts of things drivers expect from much pricier cars. The Equinox, however, starts at $22,440. While our test vehicle broke $30,000 (it was the LTZ package with nearly every option), you can easily find an all-wheel-drive model to your liking in the mid 20s.

The part we love most about the Equinox is its inherent value promise: economy of price and economy of fuel. The secret to the Equinox's fuel-sipping success is the use of a new direct-injection 2.4-liter four-cylinder model. Given the Equinox's length (it's only about three inches shorter than the larger, truck-based Trailblazer that was discontinued in 2009), you might think that a four-cylinder wouldn't have enough oomph for the job. But this one does -- in a week of driving in all sorts of different conditions with various amount of cargo and passenger loads, we fell in love with the little engine.

And if the competition is any indication, the Honda CR-V has been sold with only a four cylinder for years with nary a complaint (and plenty of awards). These crossovers really only make sense when they deliver on the fuel economy of a sedanwith the inherent goodness of a sport-utility vehicle (higher ride height, expanded cargo volume). Even though a V-6 (with direct injection) is available on the Equinox, we would recommend going for the smaller engine to take advantage of fuel economy savings.

Why Pay More?

With a navigation system that's as crystal clear as any in the industry, an exterior design that's simple and beautiful, an interior that can stand and fight with anyone, fuel economy that would make a Honda Civic blush and enough space to replace a mid-size SUV, the Equinox really asks a powerful question: can you, in all honesty, justify buying anything else?

The class of the field in the crossover genre has long been the Honda CR-V at the low end and the Lexus RX at the high end. With the Equinox doing the job of both of those, we wonder how a buyer of either -- brand loyalties aside -- would justify their purchase. We certainly couldn't.

When the tent goes up, the prices come down!

2009-10-31T07:20:00.004-04:00

October is Truck Month at Dave Gill Chevrolet and we've got a big tent up on the lot to finish out the month strong. What does this mean to you? The prices are going down, down, down. Save up to $10,000 on select new Silverados in stock, and up to $6,000 off NADA Retail on a wide range of pre-owned trucks and SUVs in stock.

We've got new trucks starting as low as $15,995 and a used 2005 Ford F-150 for only $8995!

And to make the whole afternoon fun, we're going to have LIVE radio remotes on-site here this afternoon from 4-6 pm. Stop by and register to win two free tickets to the Buckeye game against Iowa! Plus other ticket giveways are also going to be happening.

Make no mistake what we sell here at Dave Gill!

2009-10-29T12:32:00.003-04:00

Last week after 6 long months, we finally got our Chevrolet product signs. We've been selling Chevys since March but now the thousands who drive past our dealership every day will know what we sell!

The big sign on Broad Street was changed out first. The sign itself is very old, and very large. Turns out that the new product signs aren't nearly as large as the one on Broad Street.

The sign on Hamilton Road is smaller and was changed out last Thursday.

Needless to say, these signs look great!

Chevrolet Camaro vs. Hyundai Genesis

2009-09-21T17:08:00.003-04:00

Designers of the 2010 Chevrolet Camaro were no doubt fixated on its main rival, the Ford Mustang, and the V8 horsepower wars that are bound to follow. But, it's a car from half-way around the world, the Hyundai Genesis Coupe that could emerge as a serious counter to the high volume Camaro V6. Despite claims about chasing different markets, it's hard to ignore the similarities of these V6 rear drive coupes.

So, is the choice Detroit Performance or Asian Finesse? Let's see which one comes out on top!

Click here for the rest of the Comparo from MotorWeek.com.

We'll get you parts. . .PDQ!

2009-09-11T10:24:00.003-04:00

You may have seen this new truck rolling around Columbus. We're kind of proud of it actually. Dave Gill Chevrolet is making a push into the wholesale parts business and this new specially outfitted Silverado is an example of that. This hi-top configutation is set up for body parts and other large parts that need to be covered during transit.

Call our Parts Department at its special PDQ Delivery number: 614-868-9900.

WSJ.com columnist recommends 2010 Equinox!

2009-09-09T09:57:00.003-04:00

When is the last time this kind of recommendation has been given by the non motoring press about a GM product? Given up yet? Yeah, us too.

We found this nugget today online about the merits of the new, wildly-popular 2010 Chevy Equinox and we had to share. It's from the WSJ.com's "Me & My Car" columnist Jonathan Welch:

Q: I am considering buying a Ford Escape Hybrid, but I am not sure that a hybrid makes economic sense for me. I drive about 21,000 miles per year, but at least 90% of that is freeway driving. I am looking for a small sport-utility vehicle, but I don't need a lot of towing capacity. —Bruce W. Boetter, San Diego

A: You should consider the front-wheel-drive, four-cylinder Chevrolet Equinox, which has a better highway fuel-economy rating than the Escape Hybrid. (Even the all-wheel-drive version comes close.) Other small crossover SUVs, including the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4 and Hyundai Tucson, compete with the Ford, and the nonhybrid version of the Escape is also worth a look. But I found the Equinox a step above the others, mainly because of its quiet ride, larger size and surprisingly cushy interior.

Now how's that for some praise? But don't take this guy's word for it. Come on in to the store yourself and give the all-new 2010 Equinox a look for yourself. That is, if we have any left to test drive. . .

REVIEW: 2010 Chevrolet Equinox: Finally, a serious cute-ute contender

2009-08-28T07:04:00.003-04:00

The sweet spot for the trim level on the 2010 Chevy Equinox will be a FWD LT1 with the four-cylinder engine. That is what you will find mostly on the road -- and in our inventory. However, that doesn't mean that you can't have a little fun now and then with a well-equipped model.

Boston.com just reviewed such a creature and really loved it!

"The 2010 Equinox has finally caught up, and in some areas, passed its competitors."

"Chevy's effort at making refinement and interior quality its top priorities have paid off in the Equinox, similar to what the Malibu achieved in 2008. With the 2011 Cruze replacing the Cobalt and 2011 Spark up against the aging Aveo, Chevy seems committed to changing its substandard reputation against the imports. So long as the money doesn't run out, we're confident they'll have a good shot."

Click here for the rest of the review on a well-equipped LTZ model Equinox.

As you can read by the reader comments after this story, GM has a long way to go in changing perceptions of their products. But we are here to tell you this new Equinox REALLY is amazing to see in person. It looks like no GM ever built. Trust us.

LAST DAY for Clunker deals today only at Dave Gill Chevrolet!

2009-08-23T12:13:00.003-04:00

The government has ordered the CARS "Cash for Clunkers" program to end at 8 pm, Monday, August 24. That is our deadline to enter all transactions into the CARS.gov website for approval.

That means today, Sunday, August 23, is THE LAST DAY Dave Gill Chevrolet will be completing Cash for Clunkers transactions!

We ARE OPEN TODAY FROM 12 PM TO 4 PM!

Finding the Ultimate Modern Muscle Car

2009-07-21T07:26:00.003-04:00

So you think you're serious about buying a muscle car do you? There's three to choose from really: The Camaro SS, the Challenger and the Mustang. We're a bit biased, so you'd guess our pick. But what about the independent minds over at Edmunds.com's Inside Line?

"There's little more to be said than the Camaro is back. In a big way. And SS once again truly means Super Sport."

Interested? Read the full review by clicking here!

The ALL-NEW 2010 Chevy Equinox is almost here!

2009-06-19T07:47:00.008-04:00

First Drive: 2010 Chevrolet Equinox
The End Of "Good Enough For Chevy"

By Mike Connor, Motor Trend

Chevrolets at their best offered "more than expected." This separated the revolutionary 1955 Bel Air from its popularly priced rivals at Ford and Plymouth. It defined the first two generations of Chevelles and the downsized 1977 Caprice. But as GM moved into the troubled 1980s and '90s, the clarion call at Chevrolet became "Good enough for Chevy." This sad phrase steered product planners, designers, and engineers into producing a generation of Chevrolets that were little more than segment placeholders, something to give the brand a presence in a category.

The original Equinox embodied this attitude to the hilt. On paper the specs were on target: a standard V-6 and automatic transmission, independent suspension, and discs at all four corners along with a roomy, reconfigurable interior for five. Dynamically and aesthetically, the vehicle was far less than the sum of its parts. Following in the path of a series of upgraded Chevrolets (the Malibu and GMT900 full-size trucks), the 2010 Equinox has eschewed the good-enough-for-Chevy attitude and has become a transformed crossover in the process.

After a deep-dive into the compact-crossover segment Chevy came to significant revelations. First was that owners of these vehicles appreciate and seek refined, comfortable products. Buyers told Chevy V-6 engines are not a high priority. Most important, Chevrolet decided if it was going to play in the CR-V, Escape, and RAV4 sandbox it must try to beat the best.

Of course, manufacturers have claimed this countless times in the past. Starting with the architecture of the first Equinox, the stage was set for another case of overpromising and underdelivering. Overall width is up a fraction over an inch and vehicle length has been shortened an inch. Powertrain offerings were rethought and both the old-fashioned "high-value" 185-horsepower, 3.4-liter OHV V-6 and the modern "high-feature" 264-horsepower, 3.6-liter DOHC V-6 are no longer offered. The Equinox Sport has been axed along with the 3.6.

Instead, a 182-horsepower direct-injected 2.4-liter DOHC I-4 is standard in all Equinox models and a 3.0-liter direct-injection version of the high-feature DOHC V-6 making the 3.6's 264 horsepower is available on LT and LTZ trim levels. Either engine is available with front or all-wheel drive and GM's six-speed automatic is standard across the board. The 3.0 in a front-drive Equinox is estimated at 18/25 mpg, 1 mpg better than the 3.6 in city and highway mileage.

When mated to the I-4, a driver-selectable "eco mode" is added to the six-speed automatic, which allows the torque converter clutch to lock up at lower speeds and changes shift points to improve fuel economy. The result is a front-drive compact crossover estimated to deliver 22 mpg in the EPA city cycle and 32 mpg highway. That beats the Ford Escape Hybrid'snumber, making the 2.4-liter Equinox the segment highway fuel economy leader.

Government 5-star and IIHS "good" crash ratings were a program target from the outset and base curb weight is up over the previous model. However, improved impact performance doesn't tell the whole story of the 110-pound mass rise.

With its interior of amusingly grained hard plastic, the original Equinox was a real boom box inside. Playing for segment leadership rather than mere participation made silencing the 2010 Equinox a gilt-edge priority. GM employed Active Noise Cancellation for the first time on any of its production vehicles. The system (on 2.4-liter models exclusively) employs two microphones to detect low-frequency sounds in the cabin and then uses the car's audio system speaker, including the subwoofer when fitted, to generate canceling sound. The noise-cancellation system also allowed engineers to drop the idle speed of the I-4, which yielded about 0.1-mpg-better fuel economy. Further noise mitigation is attained through the use of laminated acoustic glass for the windshield and front side windows as well as triple seals on all four doors. Additionally, the level of interior materials is significantly upgraded to the point where the Equinox cabin is measurably better than Chevy's own Malibu. Yes, there are still some large hard-plastic components, but they've been moved out of the driver's primary touch zones or have been covered with soft (or soft-touch) trim. Compare interiors side by side with the chief competition, Ford Escape, Jeep Liberty, Honda CR-V, Hyundai Santa Fe, and Toyota RAV4, and the Chevy eats 'em up and spits 'em out.

Climbing into an AWD 2.4-liter Equinox LT during a rainstorm, we almost hot cranked the ignition. The engine was running, but the sound of rain falling on the sunroof drowned it out, and its idle didn't vibrate through the toe-pan, seat, or steering column. And the triple door seals, acoustic glass windshield, and front-door windows have pretty much eliminated -- eliminated -- A-pillar, wiper, and mirror-patch wind noise at speeds up to about 65 mph.

According to Chevrolet, the front-drive 2.4-liter Equinox is good for a 0-to-60-mph time of 8.7 seconds. The V-6 shaves nine-tenths off that time.

Setting the I-4 Equinox transmission into Eco Mode doesn't significantly change the driving experience when puttering around. Even though the converter clutch engages a lower speed, there's no appreciable added roughness. The Eco Mode's revised shift points are not quite so transparent. At part throttle, acceleration becomes more leisurely, not to where the Equinox feels doggy, but apparent enough to a sensitive driver. The majority of drivers in the segment would be hard-pressed to feel the slight decrease in performance.

To the enthusiast, discussing vehicle dynamics in this segment seems irrelevant. If you're looking to carve up a canyon road in a CR-V rather than a Civic, for example, you've got one strange set of priorities. With that in mind, the 2010 Equinox is a less than optimal choice for said twisty driving than a Cobalt SS. But when the road becomes more challenging than a thoroughfare, the Equinox will do nothing untoward or dangerous unless provoked by a madman. The base P225/65R17 all-season Michelins are optimized for reduced rolling resistance and good tread life. They become the "fusible link" when pushing the Equinox very hard, giving the driver plenty of audible notice before they let go of the road in complete frustration. The ride/handling compromise has been biased in favor of comfort and predictability, the segment rule. Compliance and road isolation is the order of the day for driver comfort and reduced cabin noise. Cars with the optional P235/55R19 Hankooks generate considerably more tire sound than those equipped with 17- or 18-inch rubber.

Power steering with the V-6 is a hydraulic system, while the I-4s get a new rack-mounted electric power-steering system. Steering feel is noteworthy for a direct-acting electric rack, better than some electronically controlled hydraulic systems.

The 2010 Equinox LS carries a base MSRP of $23,185, with power driver's seat, tilt and telescope steering column, power windows and locks, air conditioning, and alloy wheels among the standard equipment. Mid-range 1LT model starts at $24,105, adding privacy glass, roof rails, and an electronic compass. Higher-end 2LT further adds auto climate-control A/C, Bluetooth, USB connection, rearview camera, foglights, and upgraded audio with steering-wheel controls, and starts at $26,190. The topline $28,790 LTZ throws in a memory seat and mirrors for the driver, heated leather seats, sonar rear park assist, exterior chrome package, and power tailgate. Pricing may be the biggest news of all since a 2010 Equinox LS undercuts the previous version by a hefty $1825. The mid-range 1LT carries an MSRP $905 less than that of the 2009 base version.

With the 2010 Equinox, Chevrolet has a product that genuinely outperforms its best competitors in the areas of NVH, accommodation, and fuel economy. That it does so with better content and more than competitive pricing marks a return to the "more than expected" philosophy that brought about Chevrolet's postwar golden age. Just as important as how it performs in the market, the Equinox should be the final nail in the coffin of the jaded GM concept of "Good Enough for Chevy."

Chevrolet Cobalt takes it back to basics

2009-05-22T09:41:00.003-04:00

Looking for a great value, great gas mileage and simplicity? Who isn't interested in that right now right? The 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt XFE model is just that car! Read with Detroit News columnist Scott Burgess has to say about the manual-shifting Cobalt in his latest column.

"The spartan approach may not win the big ring, but it does more than enough to make the final four in Detroit. Few cars top the Cobalt LS XFE's 37 mpg highway numbers. Not the Toyota Corolla, Honda Civic or Volkswagen Jetta -- all comparable compacts.

And the Cobalt LS XFE comes in with a cheaper price tag. My test vehicle, cost $15,925, including the $660 shipping charge. "

Read the entire review by clicking on this link.

As of this writing, we have 5 Cobalt XFE Coupes in stock and only 1 Cobalt XFE Sedan left! Click here to see our entire Cobalt inventory!

Cross Flags Corvette Club meets for the first time at Dave Gill Chevrolet!

2009-05-06T16:02:00.005-04:00

If you like Corvettes of all vintages, then you better pencil in some free time the first Saturday morning of every month. It seems that time every month Dave Gill will be hosting the Cross Flag Corvette Club. The local club had its first meeting on Saturday, May 2 here at Dave Gill Chevrolet.

"We are very happy to sponsor the group," says Dave Gill of Dave Gill Chevrolet. "Saturday's group had some really nice Vettes parked out front. We look forward to seeing them on a regular basis!"

You can learn more about the Cross Flag Corvette Club from the group's website, http://crossflags.net/.

"The Joy of Six: 2010 Chevy Camaro V6 RS"

2009-04-22T16:50:00.004-04:00

It's been a long time coming to be sure, but the 2010 Chevrolet Camaro appears to be living up to the hype -- in both the asphalt-eating SS and more Clark Kent-like V6 version.

Read this review about the V6 version. The experts at AutoBlog already like the Camaro SS (who can blame them). But do they like the V6 little brother?

From the review:

"After driving the SS during the week of the New York Auto Show, we were prepared to be bitterly disappointed with the pre-production six-cylinder Camaro RS that The General sent us a few days later. So much for that. Preconceptions? Obliterated."

Click here to read the rest of the review!

New Chevys at wholesale prices? Only at Dave Gill Chevrolet!

2009-04-19T23:29:00.001-04:00

Now that we are a Chevy dealer, we have to really, really throw down some great deals! This Cobalt and Silverado are two examples.

Looking for a great deal, put us on your shopping/stopping list. Looking for a great deal AND great experience, stop by to see us first!

Finding the Ultimate Modern Muscle Car

2009-04-14T07:00:00.005-04:00

The gang over at Edmunds.com recently published this comparo between the 2010 Chevy Camaro SS vs. 2009 Dodge Challenger R/T vs. the 2010 Ford Mustang. We figured we knew what they said. We hoped what we figured would be true.

It all is.

Great review of the Camaro, this time in the fire-breathing SS trim.

Follow this link for the full review.

http://www.edmunds.com/insideline/do/Drives/Comparos/articleId=144526

Dave Gill CHEVROLET Pontiac GMC is looking for good salespeople!

2009-04-08T12:16:00.003-04:00

With our Chevy acquisition, we are in need of good salespeople interested in selling GM's most popular and strongest brand! And we may even consider a promising candidate if you are new to car sales.

Don't forget, First 50 Chevy customers get 3 years FREE mainteance!

2009-04-06T06:51:00.002-04:00

Things are humming along pretty good now with about 2 weeks under our belts with our new Chevy franchise. We're still very, very happy to be able to offer Chevrolet's award-winning products to our new vehicle lineup. So much so, that we are making it worth your while to buy from Dave Gill Chevrolet!

The First 50 customers who buy a new Chevy from us will get 3 years of FREE maintenance! That's right free. For three years you won't have to worry about paying for oil changes and tire rotations!

Why don't you come on in and see us. We've got more than 200 new Chevys to choose from and more coming!

IT'S OFFICIAL: Dave Gill Chevrolet Pontiac GMC!

2009-03-19T18:14:00.003-04:00

It's official! Today General Motors signed off on Dave Gill Chevrolet Pontiac GMC! All the players were here today from GM and the dealership. From left, GM's Pat Stark, Nancy Gill Heiner Steffen, our controller Steve Zehnder, Dave Gill and GM's Gary Frantz.

Tomorrow, Friday, we'll be moving all the new Chevys cars from the old Ricart lot to our lot! Come by and give us a hand if you want. We've got nearly 250 cars to move!

Or better still, just come by Saturday to buy your new Chevy from Dave Gill!

Dave Gill becomes newest Chevrolet dealer in Central Ohio!

2009-03-18T14:58:00.005-04:00

After 27 years of selling Pontiacs and GMC Trucks, Dave Gill Pontiac GMC Truck Inc. is pleased to add Chevrolet’s full line of cars, trucks and SUVs to the company’s new vehicle offering at its current location at 4700 East Broad Street, Columbus, Ohio, 43213.

The transaction, which has been approved by General Motors, will see Dave Gill offering new Chevrolets to Central Ohio customers within days. The deal came together within the last few months between Dave Gill Pontiac GMC Truck and Ricart Automotive’s Airport Chevrolet franchise.

“We are very excited to offer Chevrolet’s award-winning line of cars, trucks and SUVs to our current customers and to the central Ohio community,” said owner Dave Gill. “I think this acquisition says a lot about my faith in General Motors and specifically Chevrolet. GM is going to be around for a long time and our plan is to do the same.”

Gill added that while there will be the addition of new Chevrolets for sale, the company’s current customers can expect the same great service and family-oriented way of doing business to which they have become accustomed. “Our loyal customers have been essential to the growth of this business over the last three decades and we are excited about adding many more new customers thanks to Chevrolet,” said Gill.

Ricart Automotive will use the current Ricart Airport Chevrolet store, at 100 South Hamilton Road, to expand the body shop as well as a used car outlet. Ricart Auto Group sells Fords, Nissans, Hyundais, Kias, Mazdas and Mitsubishis from the Ricart Mega Mall at 4255 South Hamilton Road.

“It always made sense for dealers to re-align their franchises, especially nowadays,” says Fred Ricart. “The Chevy store Dave bought, like all our franchises, was tops in volume and customer satisfaction, so Dave’s getting a plum.”

We've got a new home for your hoopty!

2009-02-11T14:14:00.008-05:00

Meet the Dave Gill Used Car Czar

This weekend Dave Gill Pontiac GMC will be just the place for your hoopty car to call home. We'll give you at least $3000 for that clunker that you're driving when you trade it on a used car, truck or SUV at the Dave Gill Pre-Owned Supercenter!

And, with any vehicle purchase this weekend, our President’s Day gift to you is a free Garmin GPS system.

- Click here to listen to the radio ad for this weekend's Dave Gill Push-Pull-Dragathon!

- Click here to see our used vehicle inventory

Don't let the weather fool you, we're ready for your business!

2009-01-31T07:03:00.002-05:00

This past week has seen some of the hardest weather that a auto dealership can sustain. Heavy ice, followed by substantial snow. Oh yeah, and very cold temperatures all along the way. But like any good car dealer worth its salt (sorry, couldn't resist), Dave Gill Pontiac GMC dug itself -- and its cars -- out of the snow and ice this week.

Don't let the weather fool you. We're ready for your business. Our 175 vehicles are cleaned off, running well and ready for you to purchase!

Now if we could just get rid of the soreness in our backs. . .

Another practitioner in the house of G8!

2009-01-27T08:22:00.004-05:00

"Attention, attention. We have another convert to the house of Pontiac G8!"

The automotive press can be a tough crowd to be sure. But it appears once you are in the circle of trust, life can be much better. See the latest blog update from Edmunds.com Inside Line's Senior Automotive Editor Brian Moody. He, and his family, love the '08 G8 GT test car he's been able to drive now for about 18,000 miles.

"Is there another sedan that does all that the G8 does (V8, rear-drive, roomy back seat, tons of power, decent handling, sharp looking) for around $32,000?"

It is a short post, but it is real world stuff. Plus the reader comments below -- and the links to other G8 comparos -- are worth the read!

As a more practical aside, we've got 17 -- yes, 17 -- G8s available right now for your driving enjoyment at Dave Gill Pontiac GMC!

"2008 Pontiac G8 GT: The No Kicking Express"

NBC's Today Show to broadcast live from GM HQ

2009-01-07T22:59:00.004-05:00

Be sure to tune in and turn on NBC's Today Show on Thursday, January 8, 2009. The show will be broadcast live from the General Motors Warren Tech Center from 7 to 8 a.m. EST.

Today Show host Matt Lauer will interview GM Chairman and CEO Rick Wagoner, Vice President Global Design Ed Welburn, and UAW President Ron Gettelfinger for this special program on the U.S. auto industry.

Pontiac rolls out enhanced G6 family for 2009!

2008-12-26T10:17:00.005-05:00

Pontiac has announced that it is ringing in the new year with a fresh look for its best-selling line of G6 mid-size vehicles. Additional fuel-saving powertrain options, more aggressive exterior styling, and a sleek new instrument panel highlight the 2009.5 model G6, which will begin arriving in Pontiac dealerships in January.

"The G6 has always been one of our most important vehicles and has been Pontiac's number-one seller since it was launched in 2004," said Susan Docherty, vice president of Buick-Pontiac-GMC. "As the most complete family of mid-size vehicles available in the marketplace, the new enhancements for 2009 will further solidify the G6's reputation for sporty style and handling without sacrificing value and fuel efficiency."

All G6 models, including sedans, coupes and convertibles, receive the interior upgrades. The uniquely styled G6 GXP models will not be affected by the exterior or powertrain changes.

New Powertrain Options

For the first time, the G6 coupe will be available with GM's fuel sipping, 164-horsepower 2.4L four-cylinder Ecotec engine. Linked to a six-speed automatic transmission, the coupe's new powertrain combo is capable of the same 33 miles per gallon fuel efficiency as the current G6 sedan and also incorporates a new TAPshift manual shift system with steering wheel-mounted paddle controls.

We've already gotten our first couple 2009.5 G6s in stock here at Dave Gill!

Click here to see our entire inventory of G6s!

In those areas where E85 ethanol-based fuel is readily available, a FlexFuel version of the 219-horsepower 3.5L V6 will be available as a no-cost alternative to the standard 3.5L engine on all body styles.

The optional 222-horsepower 3.9L V6 for the G6 convertible remains unchanged, as does the standard 252-horsepower 3.6L V6 in all GXP models.

Sportier Exterior

Inspired by the sporty front end styling of the new G8 performance sedan, the new G6 front fascia features chrome surrounds for the signature Pontiac dual port honeycomb grille. This same grille pattern is carried to an updated lower air dam.

Also new are a revised headlight design with clear park/turn lenses and amber lamps, body color mirrors and painted rockers on the sedan and coupe. An updated spoiler is available for base model sedans and is standard on the GT models.

New rear fascias unique to the sedan and coupe/convertible accommodate both single and dual exhaust, as well as larger diameter exhaust tips.

17-inch chrome wheel covers are now standard equipped on all four-cylinder, six-speed automatic sedans and coupes. An updated 17-inch wheel will be standard as a part of the popular Sun-and-Sound package.

Refreshed Interior

A revised center stack is the most obvious interior enhancement of the 2009.5 model G6, sporting all new HVAC controls and an updated AM/FM/CD/MP3 radio with auxiliary audio input jack. The driver information center has moved to the gauge cluster, which has also been enhanced with new graphics and lighting.

The 2009.5 G6 will also benefit from the integrated info-tainment opportunities in GM's optional MY LINK enhanced communication package. MY LINK integrates audio system, Bluetooth telephone, XM satellite radio and OnStar navigation functions in one simple package. It includes an upgraded USB-equipped radio system, allowing for direct control of various portable music players, plus provides a full year of both XM radio and OnStar Directions and Connections services.

Other interior changes include new dark satin nickel trim accents on the steering wheel, door panels, and shifter plate. New two-tone seats in an ebony-light taupe color combination are available in either cloth or leather for all models, offering an option to the standard ebony seats. A new optional ebony-titanium color leather seating package is also available on all GT and GXP models.

Pricing

Pricing for the new G6 coupe with the four-cylinder, six-speed automatic powertrain combo starts at $22,890, including $670 destination and freight charges (DFC). A comparably equipped G6 sedan starts at $23,875.

The E85-capable FlexFuel 3.5L equipped G6 sedan starts at $24,125, with the GT coupe starting at $25,280. The 2009.5 G6 retractable hardtop convertible starts at $32,970.

A special value-priced G6 base sedan with a standard equipment package will start at $19,945.
All G6 models are covered by GM's five-year, 100,000-mile powertrain warranty, and three-year, 36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty.

Jalopnik loves the new G8 GXP!

2008-12-02T15:52:00.006-05:00

"If I were to tell you GM is the new BMW you’d probably laugh at me. But driving the 2009 Pontiac G8 GXP just a couple of months after the 2009 Cadillac CTS-V and Corvette ZR1, that’s exactly what I’m thinking.

Equipped with a 6.3-liter, LS3 V8 making 415 HP and 415 lb-ft of torque, the G8 GXP isn’t just the fastest car Pontiac's ever made, but based on GM’s new global rear wheel drive platform (the same one as the new Camaro) and fitted with lower, stiffer suspension and a six-speed manual gearbox it strikes the right balance between supercar performance and real world practicality.

Think E39 M5, but with a Corvette engine and better steering."

Do you believe? Read on. . .

"If I had the floor at the auto rescue talks"

2008-11-24T14:38:00.003-05:00

By Mitch Albom, Detroit Free Press

Good morning. First of all, before you ask, I flew commercial. Northwest Airlines. Had a bag of peanuts for breakfast. Of course, that's Northwest, which just merged with Delta, a merger you, our government, approved -- and one which, inevitably, will lead to big bonuses for their executives and higher costs for us. You seem to be OK with that kind of business.

Which makes me wonder why you're so against our kind of business? The kind we do in Detroit. The kind that gets your fingernails dirty. The kind where people use hammers and drills, not keystrokes. The kind where you get paid for making something, not moving money around a board and skimming a percentage.

You've already given hundreds of billions to banking and finance companies -- and hardly demanded anything. Yet you balk at the very idea of giving $25 billion to the Detroit Three. Heck, you shoveled that exact amount to Citigroup -- $25 billion -- just weeks ago, and that place is about to crumble anyhow.

Does the word "hypocrisy" ring a bell?

Protecting the home turf?
Sen. Shelby. Yes. You. From Alabama. You've been awfully vocal. You called the Detroit Three's leaders "failures." You said loans to them would be "wasted money." You said they should go bankrupt and "let the market work."

Why weren't you equally vocal when your state handed out hundreds of millions in tax breaks to Mercedes-Benz, Hyundai, Honda and others to open plants there? Why not "let the market work"? Or is it better for Alabama if the Detroit Three fold so that the foreign companies -- in your state -- can produce more?Way to think of the nation first, senator.

And you, Sen. Kyl of Arizona. You told reporters: "There's no reason to throw money at a problem that's not going to get solved."

That's funny, coming from such an avid supporter of the Iraq war. You've been gung ho on that for years. So how could you just sit there when, according to the New York Times, an Iraqi former chief investigator told Congress that $13 billion in U.S. reconstruction funds "had been lost to fraud, embezzlement, theft and waste" by the Iraqi government?

That's 13 billion, senator. More than half of what the auto industry is asking for. Thirteen billion? Gone? Wasted?

Where was your "throwing money at a problem that's not going to get solved" speech then

Watching over the bankers?
And the rest of you lawmakers. The ones who insist the auto companies show you a plan before you help them. You've already handed over $150 billion of our tax money to AIG. How come you never demanded a plan from it? How come when AIG blew through its first $85 billion, you quickly gave it more? The car companies may be losing money, but they can explain it: They're paying workers too much and selling cars for too little.

AIG lost hundred of billions in credit default swaps -- which no one can explain and which make nothing, produce nothing, employ no one and are essentially bets on failure.And you don't demand a paragraph from it?

Look. Nobody is saying the auto business is healthy. Its unions need to adjust more. Its models and dealerships need to shrink. Its top executives have to downsize their own importance.
But this is a business that has been around for more than a century. And some of its problems are because of that, because people get used to certain wages, manufacturers get used to certain business models. It's easy to point to foreign carmakers with tax breaks, no union costs and a cleaner slate -- not to mention help from their home countries -- and say "be more like them."

But if you let us die, you let our national spine collapse. America can't be a country of lawyers and financial analysts. We have to manufacture. We need that infrastructure. We need those jobs. We need that security. Have you forgotten who built equipment during the world wars?
Besides, let's be honest. When it comes to blowing budgets, being grossly inefficient and wallowing in debt, who's better than Congress?

So who are you to lecture anyone on how to run a business?

Ask fair questions. Demand accountability. But knock it off with the holier than thou crap, OK? You got us into this mess with greed, a bad Fed policy and too little regulation. Don't kick our tires to make yourselves look better.

Contact MITCH ALBOM at 313-223-4581 or malbom@freepress.com. Catch "The Mitch Albom Show" 5-7 p.m. weekdays on WJR-AM (760).

The Ripple Effect of the US Auto Industry by GM

2008-11-22T10:58:00.000-05:00

The Auto Industry Matters

2008-11-22T10:50:00.002-05:00

Ellen loves us!

2008-11-14T11:08:00.005-05:00

We owe a special shout-out to Dave Gill Pontiac GMC customer Ellen Faulhaber. Ellen bought a used Jeep from us last year and is looking forward to another winter with the safety and security of 4WD! Ellen clearly is still very pleased with her purchase and with us -- so much so she is bragging about us on http://www.yelp.com/!

Read Ellen's very nice review of the dealership on the personal networking website by following this link. After you read it, perhaps you could offer up your own positive Dave Gill experience!

Thank you for being a customer Ellen!

Red Tag Event @ Dave Gill = Huge Savings Now!

2008-11-06T13:07:00.002-05:00

How about some great economic news for a change! Over the next 60 days, you can buy the car or truck of your dreams on YOUR terms, simply and easily. With the Red Tag sale, you get:
** No-haggle pricing on our entire line-up of 2008 and 2009 cars and trucks. With Red Tag pricing, you can buy any vehicle at a special, factory-designated price offered only to GM's business
partners.

** Huge factory incentives with savings up to $7,500 on select models.

** Personal assistance in getting the loan you need. "Financing that Fits" gives you access to hundreds of millions of dollars and hundreds of lenders.

See the Red Tag Price on Our Pontiacs & GMCsat WWW.DAVEGILL.COMIt's easy - the price on the tag is the price you pay. Red Tag pricing includes all rebates and discounts. Now is the time to buy a truck or SUV. With up to $11,000 in Red Tag discounts, GMC Yukons and Yukon XLs are a better deal than ever before. But don't miss this opportunity -- with lower gas prices likely to continue, these great deals on trucks and SUVs are not expected to last.

Now is a great time to buy!

2008-10-29T09:17:00.003-04:00

Everywhere you look, there's uncertainty!

Who's going to get elected, McCain or Obama?

Is the stock market going up or down?

Are the Buckeyes going to a BCS Bowl game or fold like a cheap tent?

Hey, I get nervous thinking about this stuff, too! But here at Dave Gill Pontiac GMC, we are CERTAIN about a lot of GREAT THINGS!

- Interest rates are at historic lows! You may even qualify for 0%! Our banks have plenty of money to loan with flexible terms.

- All of our new Pontiacs and GMCs have GM's 100000 mile warranty. Plus, our GM Certified Pre-Owned Vehicles come with 12 month, 12000 mile bumper-to-bumper coverage.

- GM has incentives up to $8000 on our remaining 2008s. And, we even have incentives on our 2009 models.

Today may be the BEST TIME to buy. Great financing, great warranties, great selection and, most importantly, GREAT PRODUCTS.

OSU Guess the Score Contest Winner!

2008-10-21T16:01:00.009-04:00

Congratulations to Brenda from Baltimore, Ohio! Brenda (on the right)was the winner of our weekly contest. Since no one guessed the exact score of the OSU vs Michigan State game, we held a random drawing to select the winner of a Free Gas Card.

You Could Be Next to Win!
There is no purchase necessary.

OSU vs Penn. State
It's Fun and Free. Tell your Buckeye friends and see who wins. We value our Internet customers. We look forward to hearing from you. Email your entry to Bryan Helfrich at bhelfrich@davegill.com. One entry per customer please.

5 reasons why you should consider an SUV for your next vehicle

2008-10-20T10:54:00.004-04:00

Yes, you read that headline right. As a GMC franchise, we were pretty pumped to find this headline floating around in cyberspace too! So much so we thought we'd share it with you.

The story is from the respected US News & World Report. Read on. . .

"5 Reasons Why an SUV Might Make Sense for You" (US News & World Report)

2009 GMC Yukon Hybrid

We can get your financed on your next vehicle!

2008-10-17T09:53:00.001-04:00

OSU Guess the Score Contest Winner!

2008-10-16T15:11:00.003-04:00

Congratulations to Heidi from Columbus, Ohio! Heidi was the winner of our weekly contest. Since no one guessed the exact score of the OSU vs Purdue game, we held a random drawing to select the winner of a Free Gas Card.

You Could Be Next to Win!

There is no purchase necessary.
OSU vs Purdue

It's Fun and Free. Tell your Buckeye friends and see who wins. We value our Internet customers. We look forward to hearing from you.

Email your entry to Bryan Helfrich at bhelfrich@davegill.com. One entry per customer please.

Road & Track Road Test: 2009 Pontiac G8 GT

2008-10-13T15:49:00.003-04:00

This test came across our desk recently and we're putting out in front of you. The respected Road & Track loves the Pontiac G8. So do the Owner Reviews that you can read from this article. Here's a snippet:

"Handsome styling, great motor with fine response, excellent 6-speed automatic transmission and a reasonable price make this a very entertaining sports sedan — I like it," wrote Editor-in-Chief Thos L. Bryant.

"At around $30,000, the Pontiac G8 GT is a steal. Long live pushrod V-8s!" noted an enthused Editor, R&T Specials, Andrew Bornhop.

We have a lot more G8 reviews below. So scroll down to see those. When you're convinced, come on in to see us here for a detailed look on the G8 and a test drive! We have a very nice selection in house right now. Click here for our list of G8 inventory.

"Hear" your email on the way to work

2008-10-13T11:04:00.006-04:00

It won't be long before you can read your email on the way to work in your car. Wait, you can do that right now! A Michigan technology company, Azentek LLC, makes a device (we like to call them computers) that can read you your email, take spoken replys and surf the Internet all in your car!

Click here to learn more.

Car loans available at Dave Gill Pontiac GMC. No really!

2008-10-10T09:37:00.001-04:00

Every day we hear more and more about how banks and other financial institutions are struggling to loan people money to buy the products they need. And lately, this news has centered on car loans.

We’re here to tell you that at Dave Gill Pontiac GMC we have relationships with lenders who WANT YOUR BUSINESS! That’s right; we have a stable set of lenders who want to work with you to finance your next vehicle.

Dave Gill Pontiac GMC has been in business since 1982. We’ve been in the heart of Whitehall’s dealership row ever since and we’re a fixture in the community. Because of our stability, lenders are eager to work with our customers to help them finance the vehicles!

DON’T WORRY! If you need and really want a new or pre-owned vehicle, we are here to help you get financed! In the last two weeks alone we brought in a few more very stable lenders to help you get into your next vehicle.

For example, new car rates are as low as 4.99% for qualified buyers. And for pre-owned GM Certified vehicles, GMAC rates are as low as 2.9% for qualified credit.

Call Dave Gill Pontiac GMC at (614) 452-7450 or visit us online 24/7 at www.davegill.com. We look forward to hearing from you!

OSU Guess the Score Contest Winner!

2008-10-08T10:21:00.010-04:00

Congratulations to Tim from Columbus, Ohio! Tim was the winner of our first weekly contest. Since no one guessed the exact score of the OSU vs Wisconsin game, we held a random drawing to select the winner of a Free Gas Card.

You Could Be Next to Win!
There is no purchase necessary.

OSU vs Purdue
It's Fun and Free. Tell your Buckeye friends and see who wins. We value our Internet customers. We look forward to hearing from you.

Email your entry to Bryan Helfrich at bhelfrich@davegill.com. One entry per customer please.

50 Cent's 500-hp G8 to roar on Speed TV's 'Unique Whips'

2008-10-07T09:13:00.006-04:00

Long Island custom car king Will Castro and his Unique Autosports shop return to SPEED TV for three fall specials featuring some of the biggest names in sports and entertainment -- including a custom 500-hp Pontiac G8 created for rapper 50 Cent.

From The Wall Street Journal's MarketWatch:

Castro joins cutting edge rapper and hip hop king 50 Cent inside his Connecticut mansion, as the pair work on a special project with Pontiac. Powered by a 500-horsepower LSX 427 engine, 50's one-of-a-kind Pontiac G8 performance sedan gets some "Unique" treatment at Castro's New York headquarters.
"My people already know -- and I ain't even gotta say nothing -- if you send my cars to somebody other than Will, don't even bother coming back to work," 50 Cent explained. "And it's not really about Will, it's about his work ethic. I know how hard it is to become the best (in the world) at what you do and I respect that. And so the people that work for me have to respect that."

So we now we know how 50 feels huh. . . Regardless what you think about his music, his custom G8 should be pretty bad.

GM's Bob Lutz talks about the Chevy Volt!

2008-10-04T11:23:00.002-04:00

Be sure to tune in to "60 Minutes" this coming Sunday, Oct. 5 at 7 pm (EST) for a feature on the upcoming Chevrolet Volt. There's a lot riding on the revolutionary electric/hybrid Volt. Word has it that in time other GM Divisions will also receive the same technology.

GM Certified just got better!

2008-10-03T11:09:00.003-04:00

General Motors just made GM Certified vehicles even better. Buy with the utmost confidence in knowing your new GM Certified pre-owned car is now backed by GM for 12,000 miles or 12 months! That's right, bumper-to-bumper coverage for an entire year!

Sold yet? Click here to see our extensive GM Certified inventory. Not quite new. Not quite used.

The 2009 Pontiac Vibe is here!

2008-10-02T18:51:00.003-04:00

Our most fuel efficient and functional friend got a major facelift for 2009. Yes, 2009. The new '09s represent the first change to the value-driven Vibe since its initial rollout in 2003. Back is the sporty GT version and the even safer AWD version! The Vibe offers arguably our best value for your dollar. In fact, the 2009s just got better. Standard is ABS and front and side airbags. There's two engines, the 1.8L 4-cylinder and an option 2.4L four that offers great fuel economy and much improved torque from previous models.

Our first 2009 Vibe didn't last long -- it sold within a few days of hitting the lot! We'll have more coming, so please do stop by and take a look at the new 2009 Vibe. Oh yeah, and if you're a current Vibe owner, we'd love to have your trade in!

Here's a few nice write ups and links to more information about the new 2009 Pontiac Vibe.

2009 Pontiac Vibe Review (Cars.com, May 2008)

The Vibe is particularly well-positioned for buyers who want to wean themselves off their SUV addiction. It offers enough room for a family of four and their belongings. It's a well-executed model overall.

2009 Pontiac Vibe First Drive: Sampling the Past To Create the Future (Edmunds.com InsideLine, Feb. 7, 2008)

"The 2009 Pontiac Vibe is a cooperative, competent partner with useful enhancements, and is more likely than ever to appeal to those who value practicality."

2009 Pontiac Vibe is a fresh look at a 5-door hatchback (The Detroit News, March 19, 2008)

"The Vibe may feel a little blustery at the beginning, kind of like March, but after a few days, you start to like it. By the end of the week in my test vehicle, I was chirping approval like a returning Kirtland's warbler. The Vibe is comfortable, quick and provides plenty of utility with some special storage features and a roomy interior. "

The Pontiac G8 has arrived!

2008-09-02T18:55:00.000-04:00

The 2008 Pontiac G8 GT sports sedan"The best Pontiac since the GTO!"

The wait is now over for perhaps the most anticipated sports sedan from Pontiac in more than two decades! Our first G8 sedan is here and more are on the way! If you haven't heard the buzz about the new G8, we're not sure where you've been. If you haven't seen the innovative ads on television (remember the '80s arcade game "Spy Hunter"? Or how the G8 stacks up against the BMW 5-Series, ala "Book of Car"), we figure you must not watch television either. But most importantly, if you're not impressed by Pontiac's new flagship sedan, then we're not sure you have a pulse.

This full-size sedan will knock your socks off. It's a stunner in the looks department with its clean, sophisticated lines and sharp European styling cues to be sure. But it'll pack a major wallop in the performance discussion with the GT's 6.0L V8 that churns out 361 hp! Oh, did we mention it's rear-wheel-drive like a serious performance car should be?

For 2008, there are two versions: a standard G8 and the G8 GT. Both look almost the same and even run on the same suspension package. The G8 comes with GM's impressive new 3.6L V6 that powers the 2008 Motor Trend Car of the Year Cadillac CTS, among many other GM vehicles. The V6 is no slouch offering 256-horsepower and a 5-speed automatic with a sport shift mode and a manual shift mode and a 17 mpg city/25 mpg highway rating.

But to be honest, the G8 GT is getting all the limelight. The 361-hp V-8 and 6-speed automatic with manual mode and a 15/25 rating is the model that everyone is talking about.

Hurry up, our first G8 -- a V6 powered version with leather and more -- was one of the first 888 off the Australian assembly line and sold in a week to probably the best owner you can imagine (more on that later).

But in early April we got our first first Bright Red GT, and a gorgeous Black GT too -- another 888 car, no. #180 to be exact. Only 30,000 G8s are to be built this model year. Dave Gill Pontiac GMC is happy to get six G8s. That's right six. As is our way, we are not selling them for more than MSRP like many other dealers do and have done with the GTO and the Solstice.

There's tons of information online about this exciting new car.

Here's a few links to some resources we've found online. Watch this space for more links.

Dave Gill Pontiac GMC G8 inventory

Comparison Test: 2009 Nissan Maxima 3.5 SV vs. 2008 Pontiac G8 GT (MotorTrend.com, May 2008)

FIRST PLACE: PONTIAC G8 GT : Fast, smooth, roomy, athletic. You can't beat the rear-drive layout-or the window sticker. One of the great driver's-car values on the road today.

Pontiac's Great G8 (BusinessWeek, May 12, 2008)

"General Motors' new Pontiac G8 GT surprised me as much as any car I've ever reviewed. I was expecting a mundane family vehicle. What I experienced was a tight, well-built, rear-wheel drive sport sedan with speed and handling."

Edmunds.com Inside Line: 2008 Pontiac G8 Buzz Station (Edmunds.com, January 2008)
Home to oodles of info about the G8 -- photos, comparos, reviews, videos.

"Rattle off the specs of the 2008 Pontiac G8 GT and you'd swear you're talking about BMW's new M3 sedan."

2008 Pontiac G8 Full Road Test: Pontiac Reinvents Itself (Edmunds.com InsideLine, Feb. 21, 2008)

"The 2008 Pontiac G8 GT is the best Pontiac since John Z. invented the GTO. No, not that GTO. The first GTO in 1964. You know, the one Ronny and the Daytonas immortalized in song. The one that started the whole muscle car thing. No, we're not kidding.

Pontiac G8 is a rompin', stompin' good time (USAToday.com, February 2008)

"It seems far-fetched to aver that the G8 is the equal of BMW's 5 Series. But it's far enough down that road that you could argue yourself into one. Especially if you like interior space, of which the G8 has gobs."

7 QUICK TIPS for stretching your gas tank

2008-08-02T19:21:00.000-04:00

We know that everyone is feeling the crunch of rising gas costs, but here are seven quick tips that you CAN do to improve your vehicle's gas mileage.

1 - Go Easy on the Pedals - Jackrabbit driving is a killer when it comes to burning fuel. Remember that slow and steady wins the race in more ways than one.

2 - Avoid Long Idles - The bottom line is idling burns more gas than restarting an engine.

3 - Drive the Speed Limit - The higher the speed, the more gas your car will use. Reduce your driving speed just a little bit and you'll save money at the pump!

4 - No Junk in the Trunk - Clean out your trunk and the rest of your car for that matter. Excess weight bogs down your vehicle, causing it to burn more fuel.

5 - Use Overdrive and Cruise Control - Most automatic transmissions have these features. If you drive a stick, consult your owner's manual about the recommended RPMs when shifting.

6 - Keep Tires Inflated and Aligned - Believe it or not, frequent alignments and keeping your tires inflated to the proper amount will save you gas.

7 - Honor the Scheduled Maintenance - Scheduled maintenance is designed to help your car run as efficiently as possible. See how you can save $5 on your next Dave Gill Service visit!

In Memory of our Friend George W. Anderson

2008-04-30T13:35:00.000-04:00

We were deeply saddened by George’s passing on April 28 at the age of 71. As a dedicated shuttle driver, George loved interacting with our service customers and driving them to and from home and work. He will be missed.

The best GMC has to offer for families: GMC Acadia

2008-03-12T18:07:00.008-04:00

One of GM's (and ours for that matter) hottest selling vehicles continues to be the GMC Acadia. Largely unchanged from its first year in 2007, the 2009 model year offers up some nice new upgrades. This year, the V6 engine receives Direct Injection that allows for more efficient fuel flow, adding to horsepower and throttle response.

Horsepower is up to 288 and torque at 270. But fuel economy is still the same as in last year's model!

Bluetooth is also an option for the 2009 model! As is XM Nav Traffic, which alerts you to upcoming traffic problems BEFORE you get to them. The Acadia is a great family vehicle. A lot of our customers who buy Acadias have small children. New for 2009 is a back-up camera right in the inside rear view mirror!

Follow this link to see our current inventory of new Acadias.

Bottom line: If you need to carry people and stuff, there is no equal in terms of space, comfort, power, fuel economy and value. They look pretty darn nice too. But don't just take our word for it. Here's what others are saying:

Giant leap for GM: Acadia crossover shows Detroit can compete on style, fit, and finish (Boston Globe, June 30, 2007)

"The Acadia's sleek exterior breaks the boxy-look that still defines the 2007 versions of Highlander and Pilot, and its interior makes a large leap in function, style, and quality for GM."

Goodbye, minivan ... Hello, Acadia (Chicago Sun-Times, May 16, 2007)

"If you're looking for a basic seven- or eight-passenger vehicle, the Outlook is a great place to start. If you want something with a little more, step up to Acadia."

How much Acadia do you get for under $30,000? (GMInsideNews review from ByTheLake, May 14, 2007)

"My week with the base GMC Acadia SLE taught me two things. First, I learned that I don’t have to spend $45,000 to get a great, well-equipped 7-passenger cross-over."

2007 GMC Acadia AWD Road Test (Automobile.com, April 2007)

"It's an excellent large crossover that offers a lot of vehicle for the money. (It). . .is a better buy than the Chrysler Pacifica or Honda Pilot."

Ditch dullsville with GMC Acadia (King5.com, March 2007)

"With loads of style, space and refinement, GMC moves up to the front of the pack with Acadia."

2007 GMC Acadia - The Forest for the Trees: GM finally cuts through the overgrowth (Motor Trend, January 2007)

"With a single movement of the Smart Slide handle, the third row becomes one of the easiest to get into."

GMC Acadia cruises to top of market for crossovers (USA Today, December 2006)

"Acadia. . .is a splendid vehicle that fills an empty spot in the market, at least briefly, and deserves a spot high on many shopping lists."

First Drive: GMC Acadia - GM's truck division crosses over (Edmunds.com, December 2006)

"In the ever-exploding world of crossover sales, the 2007 GMC Acadia represents a compelling combination of functionality, luxury and value."

Minivans Are Dead. Long Live the Tall Wagons (Washington Post, December 2006)

"And here. . .along roads winding through the vineyards and agricultural fields of central California, I had the opportunity to drive what arguably is one of the best of the new breed -- the 2007 GMC Acadia."

Prices start just under $30,000 for a front wheel drive version, all the way up to the mid-$40,000 range for a fully-loaded AWD model. For more detailed information on the all-new Acadia, visit its section on GMC.com.

GM recognizes Dave Gill for 25 years of selling

2007-10-02T18:27:00.004-04:00

25 years and still going. That's the mantra from Dave Gill, who was honored in October 2007 by General Motors for 25 years of selling Pontiacs here at the corner of East Broad Street and Hamilton Road in Whitehall.

It all started in April 1982, when a 34-year-old Dave Gill acquired the store from Avery Pontiac, which was the nation's oldest automobile dealership at the time. Since then the store has sold everything from Tempests to Torrents. In 1987, the GMC brand was added to the new vehicle line-up.

"Our mission statement backs up what we have always done and do every day, 'we try to build lifelong relationships with our customers,'" says Dave Gill. "I would like to thank all of you who have made Dave Gill Pontiac GMC what it is today. If it weren't for our very loyal sales, service and collision center customer base, we wouldn't be here!"

(Photo: Southern Ohio Buick-Pontiac-GMC Zone Manager Ron Meier congratulates Dave Gill with a marble plaque for 25 years of service to General Motors.)

Nationwide is on your side, and now inside, the Dave Gill Collision Center

2007-07-12T17:53:00.001-04:00

This month Nationwide Insurance officially opened a new office for its adjusters inside the Dave Gill Pontiac GMC Service Department. This new office provides Nationwide customers with a central location to handle their estimating needs and in return shorten the time it takes to get its customers' vehicles back on the road after collision repairs.

"We like the partnership, it is beneficial for both of us," says Mike Sayre, a Nationwide Claims Manager on site for the opening. "This benefits our customers because it reduces the repair process cycle time and gets them back in their car and on the road faster."

According to Sayre, this partnership between an insurer and a collision center is the first of its kind in the country. Why did the Columbus-based Nationwide Insurance choose the Dave Gill Collision Center for this prototype program?

"We liked the facility because of its large size, cleanliness and professionalism of its staff," says Sayre.

The Dave Gill Collision Center, a Nationwide Direct Repair Facility since 2006, also has direct repair relationships with USAA.

"We're very excited about this opportunity to serve our collision center customers better than we have before," says Heath Schotts, Dave Gill Pontiac GMC Collision Center Manager. "We work on many Nationwide customers cars already that it makes perfect sense for them to work right out of our location."

To help take advantage of this new relationship, the Dave Gill Collision Center has expanded its hours to include Saturdays. The Collision Center is now open on Saturdays from 8 - 1 pm like the Service Department.

The new office, located in the dealership's service drive, used to be home to the customer lounge. To accommodate the Nationwide moves, a new customer lounge was created on the sales floor of the showroom. The new customer lounge features a large flat screen HD television, more comfortable seating, desktop work areas and a children's play area.

"The Kids" are back!

2006-10-15T13:15:00.000-04:00

Popular Dave Gill advertising campaign is reborn on TV

By now you may have seen the new Dave Gill Pontiac GMC Truck television advertising campaign. It features Dave Gill and a bunch of cute kids talking about cars and trucks.

Here's a few ads that have run. More will be created. Stay tuned! This is the first spot that aired for the first time in June 2006:

For those of you out there who haven't lived in the area since the 1980s, the new commercials hopefully create a fresh take on the dealership and what we stand for -- openness, fun, and a family friendly way of doing business.

But for those of you who can remember, the ads are also designed to capture the essence of the very successful and catchy 1980s radio campaign with "the kids" trying to hopelessly pronounce Dave Gill (think Shave Dill, Cave Will, etc.). In fact, we have customers who still like to sing the jingle "It's Dave Gill, that means Pontiac, Pontiac GMC!"

We knew we had a good thing going with the original ads, so we thought we would try to resurrect that success for this decade. This time around though, television is the medium of choice, and to create these spots for the visual medium that is TV, we had our work cut out for us.

And yes, a few of those kids in the commercials are Dave Gill's grandkids -- they're cute aren't they!

If you've seen the commercials, drop us a line and let us know what you think. We'd love to hear from you. If your comments are good, we might just post them right here on http://www.davegill.com/!

Gary Hilliard: 1951-2006

2006-09-18T17:50:00.001-04:00

We mourn the loss of our friend and colleague, Gary Hilliard, who passed away Thursday, September 21, 2006 after a long struggle with cancer.

For 16 years, Gary worked for Dave Gill Pontiac GMC as a service manager and then as a fixed operations manager overseeing the service, body shop, and parts departments.

A man of uncommonly strong faith, Gary treated customers and employees alike with honesty, respect and integrity. We will miss Gary as both a personal friend and an inspirational leader on our team.

But his legacy remains. He taught us all about dignity and courage in the face of insurmountable odds, and his principled way of doing business lives on in the leaders that follow him.