Monday, December 28, 2009
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
Thursday, November 26, 2009
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
2010 Chevy Equinox: Yes they can
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.
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.
Saturday, October 31, 2009
When the tent goes up, the prices come down!
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.
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.
Thursday, October 29, 2009
Make no mistake what we sell here at Dave Gill!
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!
Monday, September 21, 2009
Chevrolet Camaro vs. Hyundai Genesis
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!
Friday, September 11, 2009
We'll get you parts. . .PDQ!
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.
Wednesday, September 9, 2009
WSJ.com columnist recommends 2010 Equinox!
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. . .
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. . .
Friday, August 28, 2009
REVIEW: 2010 Chevrolet Equinox: Finally, a serious cute-ute contender
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.
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.
Sunday, August 23, 2009
LAST DAY for Clunker deals today only at Dave Gill Chevrolet!
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!
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!
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
Finding the Ultimate Modern Muscle Car
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!
Friday, June 19, 2009
The ALL-NEW 2010 Chevy Equinox is almost here!
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."
Friday, May 22, 2009
Chevrolet Cobalt takes it back to basics
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!
"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!
Wednesday, May 6, 2009
Cross Flags Corvette Club meets for the first time at Dave Gill Chevrolet!
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/.
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
"The Joy of Six: 2010 Chevy Camaro V6 RS"
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."
Sunday, April 19, 2009
New Chevys at wholesale prices? Only at Dave Gill Chevrolet!
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!
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
Finding the Ultimate Modern Muscle Car
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.
Wednesday, April 8, 2009
Dave Gill CHEVROLET Pontiac GMC is looking for good salespeople!
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.
Monday, April 6, 2009
Don't forget, First 50 Chevy customers get 3 years FREE mainteance!
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!
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!
Thursday, March 19, 2009
IT'S OFFICIAL: Dave Gill Chevrolet Pontiac GMC!
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!
Wednesday, March 18, 2009
Dave Gill becomes newest Chevrolet dealer in Central Ohio!
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.”
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
We've got a new home for your hoopty!
Meet the Dave Gill Used Car CzarThis 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!
Saturday, January 31, 2009
Don't let the weather fool you, we're ready for your business!
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. . .
Tuesday, January 27, 2009
Another practitioner in the house of G8!
"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!
Wednesday, January 7, 2009
NBC's Today Show to broadcast live from GM HQ
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.
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