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The new Captiva SUV will be seen for the first time at the Paris Motor Show, sporting a new front end design, a range of enhancements to the interior and new engines and transmissions. Captiva will be one of four Chevrolet world premieres.

Captiva is Chevrolet’s full-blooded sports SUV with confident and dynamic new styling and active on-demand all-wheel drive system that distributes power as needed. At the same time the new Captiva retains the advantages of its adaptable, theatre-style seating in three rows which comfortably accommodates up to seven passengers.

The Captiva has won many friends for its exterior design since its launch in 2006, and with the new model it just got even better. A number of features are immediately noticeable when viewing the new Captiva from the front, adding up to its athletic stance: the re-shaped and sharply sculptured hood, a new larger grille with its dual-opening and the Chevrolet ‘bow-tie’ sited proudly in the middle, and the prism style headlamps and integrated LED turn signals on the outside rearview mirrors.

Moving round to the front fenders, the side air-vents now take on a more angular shape to emphasize the new Captiva’s sporting intent, while from the A pillars back the Captiva retains its handsome profile, characterized by a sleek, rising shoulder line. Setting the new Captiva’s body off perfectly are the new exterior color palette and the accentuated wheel arches which will accommodate wheel sizes of 17 to 19 inches.

It’s under the Captiva’s new hood that many changes are also taking place, with no less than four new powerful engines that will come standard with a new manual or automatic six-speed transmission for a powerful, smooth ride. The new engine line-up, which is comprised of two gasoline engines (2.4L and 3.0L) and two turbo-diesel variants (2.2L), incorporates a host of advanced technologies aimed at delivering an optimal balance of performance and fuel economy.

With the introduction of a new 3.0 liter 258 hp V6 gasoline engine with direct injection and variable valve timing, the Captiva will be one of the most powerful compact SUVs on the market, while the new 2.2 liter common rail turbo-charged diesel units will be available with either 163 or 184 hp outputs. Rounding off the new line-up is a 2.4 liter dual overhead cam gasoline unit with variable valve timing, rated at 171 hp. Both, the 2.2 liter turbo-diesels as well as the 2.4 liter gasoline engine can be ordered in front- or all-wheel-drive configurations.

The new Captiva’s chassis has been re-tuned to further enhance vehicle dynamics, improving cornering, roll characteristics and ride feel. With Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Traction Control System (TCS) and Braking Assist System (BAS) standard, as well as front-, side- and curtain airbags, the Captiva provides a high level of safety.

Climb aboard the new Captiva and driver and passengers will still be welcomed by that airy and spacious interior, with storage space that is among best in class and with the option of either 5 or 7 seats.

The Captiva’s upgraded interior now features an array of new finishes and textures including all-new seat fabrics and interior décor appointments to give the car a more up-market feel and look. Designers have put to good use some of the elements featured on other new Chevrolet models, such as the ice-blue back lighting and the ‘wrap-round’ design of the front fascia which flows into the front driver’s and passenger doors creating the dual-cockpit look.

The new Captiva features Hill Start Assist, eliminating ‘roll-back’ on hills and an electric park brake that opens up space for further storage in the center console, including two 1-liter cup holders.

The new Captiva’s audio system includes Aux-in, USB-port and Bluetooth connectivity. Passengers will enjoy their audio experience all the more thanks to improved acoustic engineering resulting in reduced road, wind and engine noise. Captiva can be ordered with a touch-screen navigation system with rear view camera for parking assistance.

Captiva offers a lot of SUV for its price: powerful, yet efficient engines, all-wheel drive capabilities, roominess and versatility for up to seven passengers. Its launch in Europe is scheduled for spring 2011.

The Corvette Z06 Carbon Limited Edition is another example of the expanded Corvette line-up. Five years ago, customers had the choice of a Corvette coupe or convertible. With the addition of the Z06, Grand Sport coupe and convertible and ZR1, Corvette enthusiasts now have more choices than ever.

‘For track use, the Z06 Carbon is the best balanced Corvette yet. It combines the lightweight and naturally-aspirated Z06 engine with the road-holding and braking of the ZR1,’ said Tadge Juechter, Corvette Chief Engineer. ‘For technical tracks like Laguna Seca, the Z06 Carbon could shave up to three seconds off the Z06 lap time.’

This limited edition Z06 will boast Brembo carbon ceramic brakes with specific dark gray metallic calipers. These powerful brakes were first introduced on the ZR1. Black 20-spoke 19-inch front/20-inch rear wheels complement the car’s Michelin PS2 tires. Other mechanical features include Magnetic Selective Ride Control for the first time on the Z06 and enhanced cooling. The car also features a special carbon pattern engine cover.

The Corvette Z06 Carbon will be available in two colors: Inferno Orange and the all-new Supersonic Blue. Black headlamps and mirrors, a ZR1-style body color spoiler, body color door handles, carbon fiber raised hood, and black carbon fiber rockers and splitter enhance the Z06′s dynamic design and reduce mass and aerodynamic lift. For track events, customers can also install the Euro-styled racing numbers that come with each car.

The Z06 Carbon’s ebony leather and suede interior is complemented by blue or orange seat stitching to match the exterior color chosen. Other features include a unique steering wheel emblem, sill plate and logoed headrest. The suede used on the steering wheel, shifter, seat inserts, armrests and doors add to the luxury of this limited edition Z06.

An optional Z07 performance package that includes the mechanical upgrades introduced on the Z06 Carbon can be added to a regular 2011 Z06. This package also includes Competition Gray 20-spoke wheels and all the chassis and cooling upgrades.

The CFZ Z06 carbon fiber package includes black carbon fiber rockers, splitter and roof panel with the full-width body color spoiler. It can also be purchased with or without the Z07 package on regular Z06 models.

The 2011 Corvette Z06 Carbon Limited Edition, as well as the new Z07 and CFZ Z06 option packages will be available in late summer.

The Z06 is a Corvette like no other. With its racing-inspired powertrain and suspension features, along with an aluminum frame and carbon fiber fenders and floor panels, it delivers exceptional levels of capability and technology. And with a curb weight of only 3,175 pounds (1440 kg), it’s the lightest, best-balanced Corvette model and one of the most svelte supercars on the market.

Corvette Z06 is propelled by the LS7 7.0L (427 cubic inches) engine that delivers 505 horsepower (377 kW). Unique features include a racing-style dry-sump oiling system that helps ensure adequate oil pressure during high-load cornering. The LS7 engine powers a 3,175-pound (1,440 kg) package to help deliver 0-60 performance of 3.7 seconds in first gear, quarter-mile times of 11.7 seconds at 125 mph and a top speed of 198 mph. A six-speed manual is the only transmission offered with the engine.

The Corvette Z06′s powertrain and drivetrain systems are matched to the LS7′s performance capability. The light, four-into-one headers discharge into close-coupled catalytic converters and through two-mode mufflers. The mufflers each feature a vacuum-actuated outlet valve, which controls exhaust noise during low-load operation but opens for maximum power.

At the rear of the LS7 engine, a single-mass flywheel and lightweight, high-capacity clutch channel torque to the rear transaxle. The six-speed manual transmission is strengthened to handle the LS7′s substantial torque load. It also incorporates a pump that sends transmission fluid to the front radiator for cooling. Upon its return, the fluid removes additional heat from the differential lube before returning to the transmission. The six-speed transmission connects to a limited-slip differential, with enlarged ring and pinion gears. Stronger axle half-shafts with tougher universal joints transmit power to the rear wheels.

The Z06 has an aluminum body structure for optimum stiffness and light weight for the fixed-roof body style. Perimeter rails are one-piece hydroformed aluminum members featuring cast suspension nodes, which replace many welded steel components on other Corvette models. Advanced structural composites featuring carbon-fiber are bonded to the aluminum structure. The wider front wheelhouses, for example, are carbon composites, and the passenger compartment floors combine carbon-fiber skins with an ultra-lightweight balsa wood core.

The Z06 has a magnesium cradle that serves as the attachment point for the engine and some front suspension components. Magnesium is lighter than aluminum, yet incredibly strong. The magnesium cradle helps improve the front-to-rear weight distribution, as do carbon-fiber front fenders and wheelhouses. Engineers also moved the battery from underhood to a position in the rear cargo area, behind one of the rear wheels.

The Z06 retains the 105.7-inch (2,686-mm) wheelbase of other Corvette models, as well as the short-long arm suspension and transverse spring design, but it rides on all-new wheels, tires and brakes, as well as its own rear spring and roll stabilizer. It’s a firmer suspension that works harmoniously with large 18 x 9.5-inch cast-spun aluminum wheels and 275/35ZR18 tires in the front, and 19 x 12-inch cast-spun aluminum wheels with 325/30ZR19 tires in the rear. New Goodyear F1 Supercar Gen 2 tires are standard.

Complementing the suspension system and large rolling stock is an equally capable four-wheel disc brake system, consisting of 14-inch (355 mm) vented and cross-drilled front rotors and 13.4-inch (340 mm) vented and cross-drilled rear rotors.

The front rotors are acted upon by large, red-painted six-piston calipers that use six individual brake pads. Individual brake pads are used because they deliver more equalized wear compared to what would otherwise be a pair of very long single-piece pads. The rear brakes use four-piston calipers with four individual brake pads. A four-channel ABS system is standard, as is a very competent active handling system – complete with a Competitive Driving mode.

The aerodynamics of the Z06′s exterior were shaped by the experiences of the Corvette racing program, where high-speed stability and cornering capability are paramount. While the race cars use large rear wings, the Z06′s elevated spoiler provides sufficient downforce to balance the road-worthy front splitter without adversely affecting aerodynamic drag.

For all of its race-inspired functionality, the Z06 is designed to be a daily-drivable, high-performance vehicle. To that end, comfort and convenience are held to a very high standard. Standard features include High-Intensity Discharge lighting, fog lamps, leather seating, dual-zone air conditioning, cabin air filtration and head-up display (HUD) with track mode and g-meter.

The Z06 gauge cluster displays the Z06 logo on the 7000-redline tachometer, and has a readout on the oil pressure gauge to reflect the higher standard pressure of the dry-sump oiling system. The seats feature two-tone leather surfaces with Z06-logo embroidery and contrasting stitching.

The 2009 Chevrolet Uplander is an unmatched addition to the minivan lineup of General Motors. General Motors had earlier made an impressive foray into the minivan segment with the launch of Venture.

But to keep pace with the changing needs, General Motors had to come up with something new. And the result is the 2009 2009 Chevrolet Uplander. The 2009 2009 Chevrolet Uplander truly an exquisite crossover sports van from the house of General Motors. With the arrival of Chevrolet Uplander, General Motors will definitely give Saturn, Buick and Pontiac a run for the money. The 2009 2009 Chevrolet Uplander is superior to Montana from Pontiac, Terraza from Buick and Relay from Saturn. The 2009 2009 Chevrolet Uplander is available in three awesome versions – base, a mid-level LS model, and the top-of-the-line LT.

The 2009 Chevrolet Uplander is equipped with 3.5-liter V-6 engine phenomenal in offering better horsepower and greater mileage. The engine has been backed up with four-speed automatic transmission. Among the minivans available in the U.S., Chevrolet Uplander is all set to become the most popular with its excellent spaciousness and supreme features. The 2009 Chevrolet Uplander is simply unbeatable for its flexible interior. And thanks to the flexibility, the car offers gigantic cargo space of 136.5 cubic feet. No matter how big your cargo is the 2009 Chevrolet Uplander will accommodate it quite easily. Also, have a look at its exterior – it’s simply incomparable and innovative. The prominent grilles and upright and squared-off front ends will lend a sports utility vehicle-like look into the all-new Chevrolet Uplander. Add to that tubular-shaped roof rack. The wheels and the tires of Chevrolet Uplander are quite wide. Although classified as minivan, the 2009 2009 Chevrolet Uplander takes pride in its SUV-like features and characteristics. General Motors has high hopes on the 2009 Chevrolet Uplander.

Of the four vehicles sharing this platform, there are few differences. The most significant of these is the offering of an integrated child seat in the Uplander LS model and that, in the U.S market, the Uplander is offered in two wheelbases and a cargo version. Suggested retail price for the Uplander ranges from US$21,250–33,795, depending on options. The Uplander is exported to Canada, Chile, Mexico, and the Middle East.

The four minivans all share a common platform and come equipped with a standard MP3/CD player. The Uplander and its siblings are all similarly styled and try to hit the “crossover” vehicle styling with its elongated front fascia.

The 2012 Chevrolet Volt should see no major changes following its launch for the 2011 model year. GM calls this four-passenger, 4-door hatchback an “extended-range electric vehicle” in that it does not work like most hybrids. With many hybrids, their gasoline engines and battery-powered electric motors can provide power to the drive wheels.

With Volt, the wheels are always driven by electricity, provided either by an onboard battery or a gasoline engine. The car plugs in to a household outlet and charges overnight. Chevy claims a range of 40 miles solely on a fully charged battery and more than 600 miles when the gasoline engine is used. At this point, it is not known what the gas motor will be, but expect it to be a 1.4-liter 4-cylinder engine that will also be capable of running on E85 ethanol-blended fuel.

Available safety features likely will include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, curtain side airbags, and front side airbags. Among the available features include a remote-charging and vehicle-control program that owners can download and run from Blackberry and Apple iPhone cell phones. Other features likely will include a wireless cell-phone link and a navigation system. We have not yet tested the Chevrolet Volt.

The 2009 Chevrolet Traverse is the first eight-passenger crossover SUV from General Motors’ volume division. Traverse shares its basic design with the Buick Enclave, GMC Acadia, and Saturn Outlook, but the Chevy differs in pricing, features, and details. Three rows of seats are standard. The 2nd row includes bucket seats or a bench for a total passenger capacity of seven or eight, respectively.

In the entry-level LS and mid-grade LT models, power comes from a 281-hp 3.6-liter V6 engine that teams with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Top-line LTZ models include a standard dual exhaust system that allows the engine to make 288 hp. Maximum towing capacity is 5200 lb. Traverse is available with either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. Available safety equipment includes ABS, traction control, antiskid system, curtain side airbags, and front side airbags.

The Traverse comes in the single, 4-door wagon body style of its corporate cousins. 17-inch wheels are standard, 18-inch and 20-inch wheels are available–the 20-inch wheels are standard on LTZ. Available features include DVD entertainment, rear climate control, leather upholstery, navigation system, remote engine start, satellite radio, rear obstacle detection, and a rearview camera. This evaluation is based on preview test drives.

The 2010 Chevrolet Traverse is largely unchanged following its introduction in the 2009 model year. Traverse shares its basic design with the Buick Enclave and GMC Acadia. LS, LT, and LTZ trim levels are offered. The 2nd row includes bucket seats or a bench for a total passenger capacity of 7 or 8, respectively.

Power comes from a 3.6-liter V6 engine teamed with a 6-speed automatic transmission. The engine produces 281 horsepower in the LS and LT and 288 horsepower in the LTZ. Maximum towing capacity is 5,200 pounds. Traverse is available with either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive.

Available safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, curtain-side airbags, and front-side airbags. Available features include DVD entertainment, rear climate control, leather upholstery, navigation system, remote engine start, rear-obstacle detection, and a rearview camera.