FROM LEGENDARY SPORTS CARS TO INNOVATIVE SPORT-UTES: CHEVROLET ADDS FOUR NEW MODELS FOR 2005
Chevrolet introduces four more new models to its expansive line of cars and trucks in the 2005 model year, including the highly anticipated next-generation Corvette.
Joining Corvette for 2005 are three all-new nameplates, as GM’s highest volume brand continues one of the most aggressive new model launch cycles in its 93-year history. During the 20-month period ending in mid-2005, Chevrolet will put 10 new car or truck models into production.
On the car side, Chevrolet is rewriting the rules of the small car market with Cobalt, a new line of coupes and sedans.
New to Chevy’s light truck line is the Uplander, which revolutionizes the van market by combining the best features of these family haulers with the bold styling of an SUV and the operating efficiency, responsiveness and quiet ride of a sedan.
Within the sport-utility segment, the all-new Equinox brings a higher level of innovation and versatility to the compact SUV market.
Chevrolet’s latest product barrage began in late 2003, with the production start of the all-new Malibu Maxx extended sedan. Since then, the bow-tie brand also has brought to market the all-new Colorado midsize pickup, Aveo entry-level car, and the SSR Super Sport Roadster, which now packs Corvette muscle under its aggressively sculpted hood. Chevrolet will complete its current new product cycle by mid-2005, with the market introduction of the next-generation Impala and a unique crossover vehicle called HHR.
New truck model highlights for 2005:
Equinox: Chevrolet’s new entry in the growing compact SUV market, Equinox is versatile, powerful and brings a new balance of style, comfort and capability to the segment.
Equinox is one of the only compact SUVs to be equipped with a standard V-6 engine and five-speed automatic transmission. Its 3400 3.4L V-6 is rated at 185 horsepower (138 kw) and 210 lb.-ft. (285 Nm) of torque. The front-drive Equinox can be equipped with an on-demand all-wheel-drive system.
Boasting the longest wheelbase and largest door openings among compact SUVs in addition to a wide stance, Equinox has several segment-first features, such as a wide rear seat which moves 8 inches (20.3 cm) fore or aft to either provide ample legroom for three full-size adults or create ample load space in the rear.
Uplander: Uplander redefines the mid-van market by combining bold SUV design cues with an array of family-friendly features. In short, Uplander offers the bold styling of an SUV; the passenger room and interior versatility of a van; and the efficiency and handling of a sedan.
Available in LS and uplevel LT models, Uplander provides comfortable seven-passenger seating with foldable and removable second- and third-row seats, and a 50/50 split-stowable third-row bench seat that folds flat for maximum cargo flexibility. Interior features include an innovative overhead rail storage system; a standard DVD rear-passenger entertainment system; and an available large, flexible rear convenience center and cargo system.
Uplander is powered by the 3500 3.5L V-6, which generates 200 horsepower (149 kw) and 220 lb-ft of torque. Front-wheel drive is standard, while GM’s Versatrak all-wheel-drive system can be selected for even more capability. Front-drive Uplander models are also offered with StabiliTrak, GM’s advanced vehicle stability enhancement system.
Following are highlights of other trucks in Chevrolet’s 2005 lineup.
SSR: In a class all its own, this ultimate boulevard cruiser gets a new dose of power to match its outrageous looks with a potent new 6.0L V-8 LS2 engine straight out of the legendary Corvette, producing 390 horsepower (291 kw) and 405 lb.-ft. of torque (549 Nm). A Tremec six-speed manual gearbox is added as an available option. In addition to its new power, SSR has numerous other enhancements for 2005, all designed to make this retractable-top roadster the thrill ride of the year, including retuned steering, revised exhaust routing, MP3-capable audio system and now a total of nine regular production accessories.
Innovative pickups
Avalanche: Functional upgrades include steering wheel-mounted radio controls on all models, and a driver information center that tracks up to 34 system functions in English, Spanish or French. Power-adjustable pedals are now available on most equipment packages, and a Homelink Universal Transmitter with programmable garage door opener is standard on all models except the base LS. A touch-screen navigation radio feature is added to the stereo selection. Avalanche LS is now offered with an exterior package that includes chrome trim on the door handles and outside mirror caps, and stainless steel step-assist rails.
Standard on all models but the 4WD Crew Cab is a Vortec 2800 2.8L four-cylinder engine, which delivers 175 horsepower (130 kw) and 185 lb.-ft. (251 Nm) of torque – more power and torque than any other four-cylinder engine in its class. A Vortec 3500 3.5L five-cylinder engine with 220 hp (164 kw) and 225 lb.-ft. (305 Nm) of torque is standard on the 4WD Crew Cab, and available on all other models. An available sunroof is a segment exclusive.
Silverado/HD: Silverado’s already extensive range of 1500 and 2500 light duty models expands for 2005, with the introduction of a gas-electric hybrid version of the 1500 Series Extended Cab, and an even more powerful V-8 engine.
Hybrid models have a standard Vortec 5300 5.3L V-8 and Hydra-Matic 4L60-E four-speed automatic transmission coupled with the segment’s first hybrid propulsion technology to provide up to 10 percent better fuel economy along with a 2400 watt built in generator.
An even more potent 310 horsepower (231 kw) version of GM’s Vortec 5300 5.3L V-8 is available on 4WD Silverado 1500 Extended Cabs with a standard cargo box. Other functional changes include revisions in wheel and tire choices, and the availability of a power sunroof on all Extended Cab and Crew Cab models. Front-disc, rear-drum anti-lock brakes are now standard on all light-duty models except those equipped with GM’s innovative Quadrasteer four-wheel steering system. A new 3.23 rear axle ratio is standard on 2WD models, and a more powerful, 145-amp alternator is standard on all models for 2005.
Featuring a redesigned hood and grille for 2005, Chevy Silverado Heavy Duty pickups comprise the segment's most diverse lineup, with a wide selection of weight ratings, body styles and powertrain combinations including diesel and compressed natural gas (CNG) models. The Duramax diesel increases horsepower to 310 hp and torque to 605 ft-lb.
Wide range of SUVs
Blazer: Blazer is offered as a two-door model only for 2005, as the all-new Chevy Equinox joins the larger TrailBlazer and TrailBlazer EXT. Two-door Blazers are offered in two versions: a base model and the higher-stance ZR2 for serious off-road enthusiasts. With its capable and durable Vortec 4300 4.3L V-6 engine, two transmission choices and available Autotrac four-wheel-drive system on 4x4 models, Blazer can be equipped to meet a wide range of driver needs.
Four-door Blazer models will be produced for fleet sales only for the 2005 model year.
Tahoe: GM’s OnStar safety and security system is now standard on the Z71 and LT trim levels and available on the LS model, while all models have a rear liftgate with lift-up rear glass. Tahoe’s side-sill assist steps have been redesigned for improved aerodynamics and durability. Other functional changes include a more powerful standard alternator – 160 amps versus 145 – and new standard and optional rear axle ratios for both 2WD and 4WD models. Also available for 2005 is 2WD on the Z71 off-road performance package; a new optional stereo system with touch-screen navigation system; and 17-inch, five-spoke aluminum wheels as part of the uplevel LT package.
TrailBlazer/EXT: For 2005, Chevy’s popular midsize SUVs offer the new Vortec 5300 V-8 engine with GM’s innovative Displacement on Demand (DOD) technology available on TrailBlazer EXT. Rated at an estimated 290 horsepower (216 kw) and 330 lb.-ft. of torque (447 Nm), the Gen IV Vortec 5300 all-aluminum V-8 supports TrailBlazer EXT's superior towing capacities of up to 7,000 pounds (3,175 kg) when properly equipped. Standard on all TrailBlazer models is GM’s advanced Vortec 4200 4.2L inline six-cylinder engine, rated at 275 horsepower (205 kw) and 275 lb.-ft. (373 Nm) of torque.
Other changes include a new seat design for improved comfort and craftsmanship; new door panel, floor mat and console trim designs for LT models; and additional chrome interior accents throughout on both LS and LT versions. An MP3 player is available as part of an optional stereo package for LS models, along with improved touch-screen functions for the available navigation radio system.
Suburban: Suburban’s side-sill assist steps have been redesigned for improved aerodynamics and durability. Other functional changes include a more powerful 160-amp alternator standard on all half-ton models. Rear axle ratios are revised, resulting in a 3.42 ratio being standard on all half-ton models and a 3.73 ratio as standard on all three-quarter-ton versions. Other equipment group revisions for 2005 include the availability of the Z71 off-road package for 2WD half-ton models; a new optional stereo system with touch-screen navigation system; and 17-inch, five-spoke aluminum wheels now included as part of the uplevel LT package.
Vans
Astro: Meeting the needs of active families and commercial customers, Astro delivers standard seating for up to eight, 170 cubic feet (4,825L) of cargo space with the rear seats removed and up to 5,700 pounds (2,586 kg) of towing capacity in the cargo van version.
Astro is powered by the proven Vortec 4300 4.3L V-6. It features multi-port fuel injection and delivers 190 horsepower (142 kw) and 250 lb.-ft. (339 Nm) of torque. The Vortec 4300 is mated to a Hydra-Matic 4L60-E four-speed automatic overdrive transmission. Astro’s workhorse capability is evident in its towing capacity: 5,400 pounds (2,449 kg) in passenger vans and 5,700 pounds (2,565 kg) in cargo vans.
Express: The segment’s ultimate people- and cargo-carrier, Express delivers added safety for 2005 in the form of StabiliTrak on extended-wheelbase 12- and 15-passenger models. StabiliTrak will be standard on these models. Whether it’s carrying passengers or cargo, Express owners have four engine choices at their disposal, along with two transmission choices. These vehicles are available in half-ton, three-quarter-ton and one-ton configurations, in two- and four-wheel drive.
Venture: After reigning as one of America’s most popular minivans, Venture has an abbreviated model run as it makes way for the Uplander crossover sport van. For 2005, Venture is offered in an extended-length version only, in either Plus, LS or uplevel LT trim. A new Sport Appearance Package for the LS model adds 16-inch chromed aluminum wheels on P225/60R16 touring tires, a slightly firmer FE4 touring suspension, automatic suspension leveling control and a convenient on-board inflator kit that can be used for a variety of recreational equipment.
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