2012 Chevrolet Cruze Facelift Spied & Compared

Chevrolet Cruze has been GM’s most successful model in India since its launch in mid-2009. But competition has been getting stronger with the launch of all-new VW Jetta, a refreshed Toyota Corolla and the upcoming debut of next generation 2012 Honda Civic this year. So with the heat rising in this segment Chevy can’t just sit back and enjoy its success. For quite sometime now we have been hearing about how GM intends to improve back seat comfort in Cruse and may launch facelift version this year. What you see here is the first clear photo of the new face of Cruze, thanks to our reader Mohitu who mailed it to us.

So going by this spy pic we can expect the facelift version to come with significant modifications to the front bumper design. The most obvious change is seen in the grille that no longer adopt the honeycomb model but horizontal lines that reinforce its character. Lower grille has been replaced with a single integrated slat. The fog light surrounds have a triangular shape, a bit like a Camry and includes LED daytime running lights.

Now all these changes are expected in the 2012 American version of Cruze facelift but how much will get filtered down to Indian spec is yet to be seen.

Read More On: Chevrolet

Spy Photos: 2012-2013 Chevrolet Cruze Facelift Comparison

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Opel To Launch Insignia Hatch-Sedan At British Motor Show

GM Europe is preparing to debut the 2009 Opel Insignia hatchback and sedan variants at the 2008 British Motor Show in London. The new Insignia is based on Epsilon II platform and will be replacing the Opel Vectra. Europe will get the option of seven powertrains to choose from including four gas and three diesel models all mated to six speed transmission.

The four gasoline engines range from a four-cylinder 115 hp unit to a V6 with 260 hp. Three new direct-injection turbo-diesels exclusively developed for the Insignia feature a displacement of 2.0 liters and power outputs spanning from 110 to 160 hp.

The newly developed chassis for Insignia can be enhanced with the innovative, integrated FlexRide mechatronic system, as well as the sophisticated Adaptive 4x4. The length of both the notchback and hatchback, at 4,830 mm, and the wheelbase of 2,737 mm remain the same. The Insignia's fuel consumption, CO2 emissions and driving dynamics benefit from the aerodynamic efficiency that was perfected during more than 650 hours in the wind tunnel. The result: A class-leading drag coefficient of 0.27.

Prices for the U.K., Ireland, Germany, Austria and Switzerland will be announced July 22 in London and cars will hit German dealerships before the end of the year. Opel expects both models to sell in about equal numbers but U.K. and France enjoy a high market share for 5-door sedans in the mid-size class segment.

Source: TheyReviewed
Read More On: Opel Insignia

Click To View GM's 2009 Model Opel Insignia Photo Gallery.

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Text+Video: 2009 Corvette ZR1 Breaks Nissan GT-R's Lap Record

Corvette Chief Engineer, Tadge J. Juechter has official broken the news of the upcoming 2009 Corvette ZR1 posting the fastest ever production car lap time around the Nurburgring. ZR1 now beats the 2009 Nissan GT-R's impressive record of 7:29 with its faster laptime of 7:26.4, as verified by the onboard datalogging and two hand-held stopwatches.

Here's what Juechter wrote on GMNext blog: "This morning (Friday June 27), General Motors development engineer Jim Mero drove the Corvette ZR1 around the Nürburgring in a time of 7:26.4. Jim commented after the lap that conditions were good except for a strong headwind down the main straight and that the lap was solid, but he felt there were a few places he could have gone faster." Now this indicate towards GM's intention of further improving the lap time and thus make things more difficult for upcoming 2011 Honda/Acura NSX and Toyota LF-A.

Giving out further details, Juechter clarified that the ZR1 that lapped the Ring was instock trim with no change in engine calibrations and it wore the production cars Michelin Pilot Sport 2’s tires. The chassis alignment and vehicle height were set to factory specs and the fuel used was the standard pump (not racing) gas. The only additional devices used were the communications and safety equipment.

To put an end to all possible speculation, Juechter wrote: "The vehicle was exactly like the cars that will be built in Bowling Green, Kentucky and sold around the world later this summer."

An in-car official video will be posted in the week of July 7 when the ZR1 engineering team returns from Germany. But rather waiting till then you can checkout BridgeToGantry's short spy video below that gives you glimpses of the 2009 Corvette ZR1 lapping the Ring. Hope you won't miss the sweet humming of ZR1's supercharged V8.

Source: GMNext
Read More On: Corvette ZR1

Video: 2009 Corvette ZR1 Performing At Nurburgring.

Related Posts:
2009 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1's LS9 V8 Specifications(specs).
2009 Chevrolet Corvette Comparison: ZR1 Vs Z06.
2009 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 V8 Photo Gallery.
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2009 Holden HSV W427: Australia's Most Expensive Production Car

Holden Special Vehicles today revealed that the HSV W427 is coming in August and will cost $150,000 AUD. This makes it the most expensive Australian production supercar ever. Holden Commodore-based HSV W427 has a 500 horsepower, V8 engine given it the distinction of being the fastest and the most powerful car from HSV. Not surprisingly, only 427 W427s will be built (hand built), and all will be made to order at the Clayton production facility.

Just to ensure that everyone knows what we are taling about, Holden is GM’s Australian auto brand and Holden's in-house tuner is named HSV which stands for Holden Special Vehicles.

HSV’s owner and founder Tom Walkinshaw has confirmed the final power output figure for the W427 will be 375kW (502hp) @ 6500 rpm and 640NM (472 ft/lbs) of torque @ 5000 rpm coming from the 7.0-liter LS7 V8 engine. This powerplant has been source from Chevrolet's Z06 Corvette but for W427 special HSV specific calibration has been done. Walkinshaw also informed that HSV has already received expressions of interest from 1500 customers. Now this baby seems to be already sold out more than three times.

Holden's W427 will ride on the new 20 inch wheels and its road presence will be further enhanced thanks to its all exclusive front fascia, and the new 3 piece rear spoiler made of carbon fibre. Red is the color for the car's interior. It has HSV E series performance seats in red hot trim with W427 logo plus HSV steering wheel, gear shifter and console lid all drapped in red leather. In comparison to GTS, HSV W427 gets 30% stiffer suspension and sits 20mm lower.

To make equitable distribution, each Australian and New Zealand dealer (around 64 in total) will be entitled to one HSV W427 in the first production batch, provided they have a firm retail order. Further 2008 allocations will be prioritised to dealerships according to 2007 sales figures.

HSV is hoping to recreate the magic that original Walkinshaw (supercar) did twenty years ago.

Source: HSV
Read More On: Supercars

Photo Gallery: Australias New 2009 Holden HSV W427 Supercar Pictures.

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GM's 2010 Chevrolet Camaro Convertible Official Photos

General Motors has revealed these low-res pictures of the new Chevy Camaro convertible pre-production model without camouflage. According to GM's blog , "As a reward for your interest – and your patience – here’s a sneak peak of the convertible version of the Camaro, which is also undergoing a similar evaluation as we ready it for full production later next year. (Preproduction models shown. Actual production models may vary.)"

While nothing new has been revealed about Camaro from these convertible model photos, it does give us some food for thought. There are a number of changes that have been made to the car since we first saw the prototype spy shots. GM has done away with the odd looking lights going for the standard, much better, light unit. The car also comes with what appears to be twin exhausts and the strong lines of the coupe have not been sacrificed by the retractable soft roof.

The Chevy Camaro is expected to make its debut at the 2009 Detroit Auto Show.

Source: GM Blogs
Read More On: 2010 Chevrolet Camaro: The Story Till Now


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GM's New 2009 Cadillac CTS-V Photo Gallery

This photo gallery is for the new 2009 model Cadillac CTS-V sportscar. It contains high-res wallpaper images of interior and exterior photos and pictures for Cadillac's CTS sedan based CTS-V. Click on the thumbnail pics below to enlarge.


Related Post: Upcoming 2009 Cadillac CTS-V Records Sub-8 Minute Lap Time: Video


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Upcoming 2009 Cadillac CTS-V Records Sub-8 Minute Lap Time: Video

GM is nearing the completion of testing for the highly anticipated Cadillac CTS-V. It is a limited-edition high-performance model based on the Cadillac CTS sport sedan. In a recent test at Germany’s Nurburgring, a six-speed automatic (not manual) Cadillac CTS-V lapped the 13-mile track in a record time of 7:59.32. This blistering lap-time however, is still about 40 seconds short of what Nissan's GT-R set earlier this year.

John Heinricy, director of vehicle integration and a celebrated racing driver, piloted the CTS-V through its sub-8 minute lap. The General Motors is quick to point out that the car was equipped exactly as the production model will be and no modifications were made to aid in its exemplary performance.

Click For 09 Model Cadillac CTS-V Photo Gallery

The 09 model Cadillac CTS-V is powered by supercharged 542bhp 6.2-litre LSA V8 petrol engine making 550 pound-feet of torque at 6,200 rpm. The same unit is doing service on new Corvette ZR1 as well but there it is tuned to produce mind-boggling 638 hp horsepower. CTS-V will come with a choice of 6-speed manual or automatic transmissions and a slew of technological and engineering advancements including a new version of Cadillac’s Magnetic Ride Control (MRC) suspension, paddle-shifting, and the Performance Traction Management (PTM) system. PTM allows drivers to fully exploit the car's power by instantly matching its delivery against current traction availability.

Cadillac CTS-V production is scheduled to begin this fall and will go on sale in the UK early next year. Till then check out its fastest lap-time video below.


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2009 Chevrolet Corvette Comparison: ZR1 Vs Z06

The three year old Corvette Z06 and the latest 09 Corvette ZR1 are both fast sports cars but the new ZR1 is in a league of its own. Z06 comes with 7.0L engine which produces 72hp/L while the LS9 in ZR1 comes at 6.2L and gives 103hp/L. There are many other specification differences. Here we are more concerened about the visual differences between the two.

From the outside there aren't any drastic design changes that differentiate Z06 from ZR1. But if you look closely you will definately find many subtle changes. Allow us to help you out here. On the inside the one change that we immediately noted was the replacement of the 200 mph speedometer in the Z06 with a new unit that goes up to 220 mph in the ZR1.

Related Posts:
2009 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 Pictures
2009 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 V8 Specifications

Exterior changes that differentiate ZR1 from Z06 include the new carbon fiber splitter at the front end of ZR1. Also the single fender vent on the sides of Z06 is changed for ZR1 to a pair of larger vertically stacked vents. Further, ZR1 comes with a raised hood that provides adequate clearance for the LS9, while a polycarbonate window in the hood provides a view of the engine beneath it. The roof of the ZR1 is also made of visible carbon fiber which Z06 can't boost off. Also the entire front clip on new Corvette is made of the carbon fiber, although those parts are painted. If you have an eye for detail you won't miss the bright blue Brembo brake calipers on ZR1 which come in red color on Z06.
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2009 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1's LS9 V8 Specifications(specs)

GM has announced today the official specs for 2009 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 powerplant. ZR1 will be powered by GM's latest and most powerful engine ever, the hand-built 6.2 liter LS9 supercharged V8. It will produce 638-hp of horsepower and 604 lb-ft of torque. Now that means the LS9 puts out nearly 103 horses per liter. Amazing stuff. Corvette ZR1 is expected to have a top-speed of more than 200mph (322 km/h) and will wear Michelin Pilot Sport 285/30ZR19s at front and 335/25ZR20s at the rear axle.


Quick Facts & Expectations from new 09 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1

• LS9 V8 is the most powerful automotive production engine ever manufactured by General Motors.
  
• It is hand-built and tested GM's Performance Build Center in Wixom, Mich.
  
• LS9 is SAE Certified at 638 hp and 604 lb-ft of torque.
  
• It puts out nearly 103 horses per liter.
  
• GM expects the LS9 to be the most fuel efficient 600+hp engine in the world.
  
• ZR1 designation revived after 13 years.
  
• ZR1 gets a six-speed manual transmission with race-hardened gears and dual-disc clutch technology which is not offered in any other model.
  
• The aluminum and magnesium frame of the current generation Z06 forms the basis of the new ZR1 model.
  
• Corvette Z06 & ZR1 use the same Tremec 6060 gearbox with unique ratios.
  
• Expected top-speed of more than 200mph (322 km/h).
  
• ZR1 comes with a price tag of little less than $100,000.
  
• Sale will start in summer of 2008 as a 2009 model.

Video: 2009 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 Review by Cars.com.


Related Posts:
2009 Chevrolet Corvette Comparison: ZR1 Vs Z06
2009 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 V8 Photos

POWERTRAIN/CHASSIS For 2009 CHEVROLET CORVETTE ZR1
Drivetrain layout	Front engine, RWD
Engine type	Supercharged 90 V-8 alum block/heads
Valvetrain	OHV, 2 valves/cylinder
Displacement	376 cu in/6162 cc
Compression ratio	9.1:1
Power (SAE NET)	620 hp (est)
Torque (SAE NET)	595 lb-ft (est)
Weight to power	5.4 lb/hp (est)
Transmission	6-speed manual
Final drive ratio	3.42:1
Suspension, front; rear	Control arms, transverse leaf spring, anti-roll bar; control arms, transverse leaf spring, anti-roll bar
Brakes, front; rear	15.5-in vented, drilled, disc; 15.0-in vented, drilled disc, ABS
Wheels, front; rear	10x19; 12x20 in, cast aluminum
Tires, front; rear	285/30ZR19, 335/25ZR20 Michelin Pilot Sport 2

DIMENSIONS For 2009 CHEVROLET CORVETTE ZR1
Wheelbase	105.7 in
Length x width x height	176.2 x 75.9 x 49.0 in
Curb weight	3350 lb (est)
Weight dist., f/r	52/48%
Seating capacity	2
Headroom, f	38 in
Legroom, f	43 in
Shoulder room, f	55 in
Cargo volume	22 cu ft

2009 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 V8 Photo Gallery


Detailed Specs for 2009 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1's LS9 6.2L SUPERCHARGED V-8 Engine.

Displacement (cu in / cc): 376 / 6162
Bore & stroke (in / mm): 4.06 x 3.62 / 103.25 x 92
Block material: cast aluminum.
Cylinder head material: A356-T6 rotocast aluminum.
Valvetrain: overhead valve, 2 valves per cylinder.
Fuel delivery: SFI (sequential fuel injection).
Compression ratio: 9.1:1
Horsepower / kW: 638 / 476 @ 6500 rpm
Torque (lb-ft / Nm): 604 / 819 @ 3800 rpm
Fuel shut-off (rpm): 6600
Recommended fuel: premium required.
Exhaust manifolds: stainless steel.
Main bearing caps: forged steel.
Crankshaft: forged steel.
Camshaft: hollow steel; 0.555-in (14.1 mm) lift.
Connecting rods: forged titanium.
Valves: intake: titanium, exhaust: hollow steel.
Valve lifters: hydraulic roller.
Supercharger: R2300, four-lobe "Roots" type (2.3L).
Additional features: piston oil-spray cooling; direct-mount ignition coils; 11-rib accessory drive.

Video Update 25April08: Corvette ZR1 posts 205 mph top speed

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