Design Tricks Make 2013 Enclave a Halloween Family Treat

DETROIT – With an estimated 41 million trick-or-treaters on the candy trail this Halloween, some of them will be driven to the neighborhoods with the best treats in the new 2013 Buick Enclave luxury crossover SUV. And they’ll find a number of features that make it an ideal family vehicle on October 31 and the 364 less-spooky days of the year.

The U.S. Census Bureau says 115 million housing units could be potential stops for costumed ghouls, princesses and superheroes. US News and World Report named the Buick Enclave 2012’s “Best Three Row SUV for Families,” ranking it first out of 22 vehicles in the segment, based on factors including performance, interior, exterior, safety and reliability.

Enclave is the only vehicle in its segment to offer third-row seating for three, and it’s more spacious as well – good for the candy-collecting plastic pumpkins and pillow cases. Enclave’s 33.2 inches of third-row legroom is 2.4 inches more than an Infiniti JX and 4.0 inches more than an Audi Q7.

“Aiming to achieve the best ease-of-access resulted in an Enclave with choices   second row captain’s chairs or a bench seat with SmartSlide, a system that slides the second-row forward with the pull of a single handle to open up a wide path to Enclave’s third row,” said chief engineer Sue Eckel. “On Halloween, costumed kids in an Enclave can make record time jumping from that back row to the doorbell.”

Behind the third row, 23.3 cubic feet of cargo space is enough to haul approximately 26,841 snack size boxes of Milk Duds, or some spare costumes and the family dog. And you can leave your kids wondering if the standard power liftgate is controlled by ghosts.

Safety is paramount on a night busy with pedestrian traffic. According to AAA Insurance, three measures can help ensure a safe Halloween drive:

• Avoid neighborhood shortcuts. If possible, avoid cutting through residential streets where trick-or-treaters are likely to be present. When providing directions to a party, avoid routing guests through neighborhoods unless necessary.

• Watch for children in the street.  Excited trick-or-treaters, often in dark costumes, may not pay attention to traffic and cross mid-block, walk in the street, on medians or between parked cars.

• Slow down. According to the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, a pedestrian is more than twice as likely to be killed if hit by a car traveling at 35 mph compared to 25 mph.

The 2013 Enclave has a strong list of vehicle safety features, including a standard Rear Vision Camera that provides visual and audible warnings when an object or person is near the rear bumper. A Rear Cross-Traffic Alert system uses radar sensors to alert the driver of approaching traffic from either side while the vehicle is in reverse.

Enclave comes standard with high-intensity discharge headlamps, which provide crisp, clear lighting of the road ahead. Articulating headlights, which rotate up to 15 degrees to follow the road ahead, are an option.

Every Enclave is also equipped with OnStar, which leverages the technology to connect to your car from anywhere. Through the RemoteLink smartphone app, owners can map a trick-or-treating route and send it to the vehicle remotely for easy turn-by-turn directions.

Well wishes for our East Coast friends! We hope everyone is safe during Hurricane Sandy.

2013 SUV Safety Technologies | Rear Vision Camera & GMC Acadia

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Buick attracting younger buyers: GM executive

Buick, which said last month it will introduce four new or refreshed models in the U.S. market in the next 12 months, has seen the average age of its buyers drop to 57 from 64 five years ago, said Tony DiSalle, Buick marketing vice president.

 

"There's a lot of really strong momentum," he told reporters at an event outside Detroit. "People are seeing the product portfolio. It's changing their perception of what Buick is in a very good way."

Buick's U.S. sales rose 8 percent in September, but are down 2 percent in the first nine months on cutbacks on fleet sales to commercial customers.

The brand, which sells the Verano compact, and LaCrosse and Regal mid-sized cars and Enclave crossover, will add the Encore small crossover late in the first quarter of next year. Newer versions of the LaCrosse, Regal and Enclave are also coming.

Research firm LMC Automotive expects Buick's U.S. sales to rise almost 4 percent this year to about 184,500 vehicles and hit more than 263,000 in 2015.

Buick sales in China, which accounted for about 77 percent of the brand's global total last year, are expected to increase 4 percent to about 672,600 this year and reach almost 835,000 in 2015, LMC said.

While DiSalle did not disclose a future target for the average buyer's age, he said it would likely come down further once the Encore hits the U.S. market.

Buick's conquest rate, or the percentage of buyers who are new to GM cars, stands at 43 percent for the year to date and has been even higher in the last few months, above 45 percent, as the supply of the newer Verano increases.

The lease penetration rate has risen, hitting 36 to 37 percent, up from 15 percent at the start of the year, DiSalle said. The brand's "Experience Buick" 24-month lease program, launched in March deserves the credit, he said.

Under the program, customers receive free maintenance, as well as satellite radio and GM's OnStar communications, in-vehicle safety system.

DiSalle declined to say when the lease program would end, but added there are no current plans to discontinue it. "We have every intent to keep it going," he said. (Reporting By Ben Klayman in Birmingham, Michigan; Editing by Tim Dobbyn)

Courtesy of Reuters

Interview with Fred Taylor: Longest Run in Playoff History | GMC Tweet-a-Pro

Buick and GMC Future Products through 2015: What to Expect

In the next 12 months, GM says we’ll see four new trucks for GMC—and presumably Chevy, too—and two new sedans for Buick. Later, GMC will get a new Canyon mid-size pickup truck, based on the all-new Chevy Colorado. Here’s what you can expect of the new models.

Buick LaCrosse

For the 2014 model year, the LaCrosse will get a major reskin and updated technology, including the latest touch-screen iteration of the Intellilink infotainment setup. It’ll be mechanically similar to the new Cadillac XTS and introduced-but-not-on-sale-yet Chevy Impala, offering a hybrid four and a 3.6-liter direct-injected V-6 and either front- or all-wheel drive. Once fairly suave, the current LaCrosse’s interior hasn’t aged well; for 2014 it’ll be all new, and judging from the XTS and Impala, modern and high-quality.

Buick Regal

Unlike the LaCrosse, which will be heavily reworked, the Regal just gets a face lift next year. Figure on some shuffling of the powertrain lineup, which is now out of sync with the rest of GM’s fleet. The Regal eAssist with a 2.4-liter four and small hybrid system probably will remain the base car, but don’t be shocked if a naturally aspirated 2.5-liter four shows up beneath it.

The real changes could happen in turbo territory. Where the current Regal Turbo is rated at 220 hp, a newer version of that car’s engine—different turbocharger, altered intake and exhaust—delivers 259 ponies in the Malibu Turbo and 250 in the Verano Turbo. Sure, Buick has a 270-hp Regal GS, but why set up the middle child of this premium brand get trounced at stoplights by Mom’s Chevy?

If the Regal Turbo does hop to 250-ish hp, the GS still could carry over its powerplant. The horsepower advantage would be small, but beyond that the Regal GS is supposed to be a full-on performance car, with a sportier suspension and extroverted styling compared to the Regal Turbo. In fantasyland, the 2014 Regal GS would get all-wheel drive and a 400-hp twin-turbo V-6 currently slated for an uplevel version of the Cadillac XTS and—in a different state of tune—the forthcoming ATS-V.

GMC Sierra, Yukon, and Canyon

GMC still is the money factory for GM, selling similar cars to Chevy at higher—or in the case of Denali models, much higher—prices. But the new Sierra and Yukon won’t just be pricier clones of their bow-tied brethren.

Last January, GM’s North America president Mark Reuss promised that the next big trucks and SUVs will be more cosmetically distinct from each other. The Yukon may have some significant interior upgrades, not just in aesthetic and materials but in functionality, too, Reuss told us, which we’ve read to mean better packaging for folding seats and improved passenger space.

GM also quietly, suddenly confirmed that, yes, GMC will get a new Canyon mid-size pickup spun off of the all-new global Chevy Colorado that’s also coming to the U.S. Both mid-size trucks will target both fuel-conscious truck buyers and also the Toyota Tacoma’s substantial audience for lifestyle sport trucks. Figure on V-6 engines for the Canyon and Colorado, but there’s a strong chance that the Opel diesel four being prepped for our Cruze also could be slotted into the trucks.

The mid-size-truck news is significant unto itself but also for the rest of the brand’s lineup. Mr. Reuss has said it’s far easier to design a mid-size truck to be efficient from the start than to try to “lightweight” a Silverado or Sierra. GM doesn’t want to risk durability for its big trucks by bringing in expensive, lightweight materials or using lighter components. Instead, the General will look to boost fuel economy via improved aerodynamics and the adoption of electric steering, as well as direct injection and the expansion of cylinder-deactivation tech across the latest-generation V-6 and V-8 engines.

Naturally, every new GMC will be available in fully loaded Denali trim, from the Sierra HD to the 4×8-sheet-of-plywood-hauling Yukon XL.

Courtesy of blog.caranddriver.com

GMC Sierra 1500 is good-looking and comfortable

The competition between automakers has its battlegrounds, but none is more fiercely fought over than the pick-up truck segment. The reason is quite simple; more trucks are sold every year in North America than any vehicle, and that means market share. If you own a GMC truck you are more likely to consider a GM car for your second vehicle thanks to brand loyalty.

Pick-up trucks came from a purely utilitarian need for a commercial vehicle, but in the 1950s certain models were gussied up for the average consumer who enjoyed having the cargo capacity but wanted something more refined. And so began the escalating war of features and options between the Big Three automakers.

All pick-ups, domestic or foreign-made, are front-engined, RWD, 4WD or AWD, cab in the middle with a cargo box in the back. The areas that are open for innovation are the powertrain and the cab, be it two-door or four.

Design:

The 2012 GMC Sierra 1500 is the most popular offering from General Motors and is up against the F-150 of Ford and the Dodge RAM 1500. The exterior styling has been freshened up with a chrome mesh grille and bumper while our SLT model had a colour-matched grille and bumper which in Onyx Black looked very slick.

A pair of six-inch chromed oval tubular “assist steps” or running boards add some flash below the rocker panels and give you a leg up when getting in and out of the truck. The Z71 4X4 Package adds some decals to the flanks of the cargo box along with a higher ride height.

The squared-off styling makes for a tough-looking vehicle and follows today’s trends quite nicely. Large double-stacked headlights and a large pair of fog lights dominate the squared-off front fascia.

Inside the crew cab there is a continuation of the black on black theme with some dark grey to break up the monotony.

The front bucket seats have leather inserts, and feature power 10-way driver and front-passenger seat adjusters (including power two-way lumbar adjuster), heated seat cushions and seatbacks, two-position driver memory, a cavernous centre floor console and seatback storage pockets for maps, etc. The rear seats are stadium-style fold-up seats on both the Extended and Crew Cab models with a 60/40 split.

For entertainment there is a Bose Premium sound system with subwoofer (in the centre console), auto tone control, speed-compensated volume, TheftLock and USB port.

Performance:

The Sierra 1500 SLT had been graced with the 5.3L Vortec V8 motor upgrade, which is a flexfuel engine meaning it can burn unleaded gasoline or up to 85 per cent ethanol thanks to with Active Fuel Management. Variable Valve Timing helps this engine generate 315 horsepower and 335 foot-pounds of torque. Power is distributed through a six-speed transmission with overdrive to a transfer case that can drive either the rear wheels or all of them at the simple turn of a knob.

This is all part of the All Terrain Package – includes "All Terrain" badging on front fenders and carpeted floor mats, brushed metal accents on instrument panel 18-inch chrome-clad aluminum wheels, P265/65R18 On/Off road tires and Z71 Off-Road suspension. The Z71 Off-Road Chassis Package adds 46 mm monotube Rancho shock absorbers, off-road jounce bumpers and heavy-duty front stabilizer bar, also includes high-capacity air cleaner, skid plates, an industry-exclusive Eaton automatic locking rear differential, and the Z71 decals.

Driving/utility:

The 2012 GMC Sierra 1500 is a well-designed truck that combines utility with comfort. Even with the more aggressive All-Terrain Package, F85 and ZR71 suspension upgrades, the Sierra’s ride was never annoyingly rigid, a pitfall with unloaded trucks. I took the Sierra on an extended trip from Montreal to New Jersey with a few hundred pounds of cargo and it rode like a car.

Pick-up trucks do require prudence when driving on winding roads. They are heavy and have a higher centre of gravity than a car, but you don’t get this cargo capacity in a smaller vehicle. GMC provides their StabiliTrak electronic stability control system to automatically help control lateral skids and have proven to reduce some types of crashes by up to 63 per cent. StabiliTrak now includes electronic trailer sway control.

The 5.3L Vortec V8 had plenty of power for passing and climbing through the mountains while returning decent fuel mileage. Once again, this is a big boxy truck, not a sleek sports car.

Access to the cargo box was more awkward than its two main rivals, which have clever retractable steps that make loading and securing your cargo easier.

The 2012 GMC Sierra 1500 SLT is certainly a contender for the domestic pick-up truck marketplace. It can be well optioned to suit your needs and deliver both your passengers and cargo with style.

2012 GMC Sierra 1500 SLT

Price: $39,785, $52,830 (as tested plus taxes)

Engine: 5.3L V8

Power: 315 horsepower, 335 foot-pounds of torque

Fuel economy: 14.4 litres per 100 km (city), 9.5 litres per 100 km (highway)

Transmission: six-speed automatic w/OD

Seating Capacity: five

Pros: modern exterior styling, comfortable seats, great suspension (optional Z71)

Cons: dark interior, cargo box access, modest fuel efficiency

Courtesy of the Montreal Gazette

2012 GMC Sierra 1500 Extended Cab - $3,500 Consumer Cash

2012 GMC Sierra 1500 Extended Cab
Tax, title, license, dealer fees and optional equipment extra. Price not available with special Ally finance or lease offers. Take delivery by 10-31-2012. Residency restrictions apply.

Industry-First Lighting Tech Benefits 2013 Enclave

DETROIT – The Enclave luxury crossover SUV was a harbinger of a new era of design for Buick when it arrived in 2007. By the end of this year, owners of the new 2013 Enclave will experience the next generation Enclave with advanced exterior lighting, including an industry-first taillight technology.

Working with supplier 3M, Buick developed a unique LED taillight design with a soft, uniform red glow in a complex and unique shape. Like Enclave’s standard LED daytime running lamps and accent lighting, this contemporary lighting effect previews a future design element for other models the Buick lineup.

“As a brand driven by intelligent design and technology, Buick has to be at the forefront of purposeful, modern design cues,” said Mark Adams, executive director of Buick Design. “Our signature LED lighting serves a double purpose of providing a premium look and making sure our vehicles are unmistakable in the eyes and mirrors of other drivers on the road. Some of the new Enclave’s design cues will carry over to other Buick models to come, but every execution will be true to each model’s character.”

Enclave’s taillight glow is made possible by 3M Uniform Lighting Lens technology, which uses a precision engineered micro-patterned, thermoformable polycarbonate material that provides even illumination around complex shapes with fewer LEDs, reducing both complexity and energy use.

For 2013, Enclave comes standard with signature L-shaped LED daytime running lamps and high-intensity discharge headlamps, which provide a light clearer and brighter than halogen. Articulating headlamps, which use small motors to rotate the light up to 15 degrees with the curve of the road, are an option.

The 2013 Enclave’s advanced lighting story continues inside, with a cabin bathed in the Ice Blue glow of ambient lighting.

Courtesy of media.gm.com

DIY car maintenance moves for fall: Check and top off fluids

"Many electrical issues and ignition problems stem from loose or corroded battery connections," says Travers. "If you notice corrosion on the posts or cable connectors, use an appropriate brush ($4 per brush.) This is a very inexpensive, yet handy tool that you can get at any auto parts store. And clean both (posts) completely, and then reconnect everything snuggly and securely."

As part of regular car maintenance, and for safety, make sure all of the car's lights are working; it's important for you to see, as well as be seen, during autumn's longer and darker nights, adds Molla. "Replacement bulbs will typically cost a dollar or two, with the exception of headlight bulbs, of course. They're considerably more expensive, but you can replace them all quite easily on your own without tools and save yourself a hefty labor charge in the process."

Headlight bulbs range in price from $14 to $27 for a single bulb to $25 to $50 for a dual pack.

Courtesy of Bankrate.com

"Home" TV Commercial 2012 | GMC Trucks, SUVs & Crossovers

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Fuel-Efficient Models Drive Buick Growth on West Coast

DETROIT – Buick retail sales rose 10 percent year over year in September and are on track for the brand’s best sales year since 2006, due in part to growth in markets like California. Total sales for Buick in September were up 8 percent year over year.

Year-over-year Buick sales have increased every month since February in California and were up 39 percent in September. Cities like San Francisco and San Diego lead the growth with September increases of 58 and 100 percent, respectively. Buick is attracting customers with eAssist technology, which delivers an EPA-estimated 36 highway mpg for the Buick LaCrosse luxury sedan and Regal luxury sport sedan.

The Verano compact luxury sedan, which offers Buick’s signature design and quietness in a smaller size, is also appealing to California buyers. Verano and Buick models with eAssist combined for 43 percent of September Buick sales in Los Angeles and 41 percent in San Diego.

“By adding purposeful technology like eAssist and entering new segments with models like Verano, Buick is appealing to a wider range of luxury buyers,” said Brian Sweeney, vice president of Buick Sales and Service. “Our consistent growth in competitive markets like California is a testament to design and engineering that goes into every vehicle.”

By the end of 2012, Verano will be available in dealerships with a new 2.0L turbocharged engine producing 250 horsepower, enough to deliver an estimated acceleration from 0-60 mph in 6.2 seconds while still getting an EPA-estimated 31 mpg on the highway. Verano Turbo will have a suggested retail price of $29,990, including destination.

Experience Buick has also contributed to Buick’s growth by expanding leases from 15 percent of the brand’s new vehicle deliveries when it launched in mid-March to 36 percent in September. Experience Buick is a 24-month lease that includes SiriusXM satellite radio, OnStar Directions and Connections and oil changes in the monthly payments.

Courtesy of media.gm.com

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