GM announced today that it is starting construction next week on its new $200 million facility that will create around 180 jobs. The new plant is a part of GM’s Arlington manufacturing complex and will be responsible for producing the next generation of full-size Chevrolet Tahoes, Suburbans, GMC Yukons and Cadillac Escalades.

“Our investment in GM’s Arlington plant is one more example of GM strengthening the economy and creating jobs throughout the many U.S. communities where GM does business,” said GM Manufacturing Manager Larry Zahner.

The plant currently receives stamps from several GM plants with some pars coming from more than 1,000 miles away.

GM’s new investment in the facility is on top of a $331 million investment to purchase tooling and equipment and expand the Arlington Assembly Plant that was announced along with 110 additional jobs in May 2011.

- By: Omar Rana

General Motors announced last week that it will be investing $331 million to purchase tooling and equipment and expand its Arlington Assembly Plant to make future Chevrolet Tahoes, Suburbans, GMC Yukons and Cadillac Escalades.

While GM never confirmed when the next-generation models of its full-size SUVs will arrive, sources say that model will debut in 2013 as 2014 models.

According to industry analysts, the next-generation models of full-size SUVs are likely to carry a premium to meet new fuel-economy regulations.

“They will be more expensive to engineer and build because of the need for lighter weight materials,” said Tracy Handler, an analyst at IHS Automotive. “I expect prices to be higher.”

No word on powertrain choices for the next-generation of full-size SUVs from GM.

Side note: It would be interesting to see a full-size Buick SUV.

- By: Omar Rana

Source: Automotive News

Here is another announcement from General Motors that coincides with the $2 billion U.S. investment it announced for 17 facilities in eight states on May 10. The Detroit automaker said that it will be adding 110 jobs and will invest $331 million to purchase tooling and equipment and expand its Arlington Assembly Plant to make future Chevrolet Tahoes, Suburbans, GMC Yukons and Cadillac Escalades.

“This investment will allow us to continue building award-winning full-size SUVs that offer better fuel efficiency than ever before without sacrificing the features and functionality they’ve come to expect,” GM Manufacturing Manager Larry Zahner said Thursday. “We remain committed to providing customers the utility and capability of our world-class full-size SUVs.”

GM said that the investment is primarily for manufacturing machinery, equipment, special tooling and an expansion of the current facility.

The 110 new jobs will be added to an existing workforce of 2,400 hourly and salaried employees at Arlington.

- By: Omar Rana

2011 Ford Edge

The folks at Consumer Reports said that the 2011 Ford Edge, Lincoln MKX and the Chevrolet Tahoe all scored to low to be recommended by the publication.

“In a highly competitive category, all three of these vehicles have a number of strengths, but each had some notable weaknesses that forced their testing scores to fall below our standard for a recommended SUV,” said David Champion, senior director of Consumer Reports’ Auto Test Center in East Haddam, Connecticut.

The report also reviewed the Infiniti QX56, the V8 Jeep Grand Cherokee and the Porsche Cayenne. Consumer Reports said that all of those vehicles are too new for the publication to recommend since they don’t have adequate reliability data.

The story also gives Consumer Reports two cents on the MyFord/MyLincoln Touch system, which they said “did not always perform as promised.”

Click through for the press release.

2011 Ford Edge:

2011 Lincoln MKX:

2011 Ford Edge:

2011 Lincoln MKX:

Press Release

Consumer Reports: Chevrolet Tahoe, Ford Edge, and Lincoln MKX Score Too Low in SUV Tests to Recommend

New MyFord/MyLincoln Touch system overcomplicated and distracting

YONKERS, N.Y., Jan. 4, 2011 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ — The Chevrolet Tahoe, Ford Edge and Lincoln MKX scored too low in testing to be recommended by Consumer Reports. The vehicles are part of a test group in the February issue comprised of six midsized, midsized luxury, and large luxury SUVs.

The report also reviewed the Infiniti QX56, a V8 version of the Jeep Grand Cherokee, and the Porsche Cayenne. All of these performed well in testing, but are too new for CR to have adequate reliability data to recommend. CR only recommends vehicles that have performed well in its tests, have at least average predicted reliability based on CR’s Annual Auto Survey of its more than seven million print and Web subscribers, and performed at least adequately if crash-tested or included in a government rollover test

The story also reviews the MyFord/MyLincoln Touch system, a new driver interface for operating the radio, climate control, and navigation system. It can also interface with cell phones and portable music players. The driver’s interface uses an 8-inch video touch screen in the center of the dashboard. It also includes two 4.2-inch dashboard displays flanking the speedometer that can be configured to show different gauges and can perform some of the same functions as the screen. The system also recognizes and responds to voice commands. CR’s testers looked at the system in the 2011 Lincoln MKX and Ford Edge SEL and found it to be a complicated distraction while driving. In addition, first-time users might find it impossible to comprehend. The system did not always perform as promised.

Full tests and ratings for all the vehicles appear in the January issue of Consumer Reports, which goes on sale January 4. The reports are also available to subscribers of www.ConsumerReports.org . Updated daily, ConsumerReports.org is the go-to site for the latest auto reviews, product news, blogs on breaking news and car buying information.

Prices ranged from $37,625 for the Ford Edge SEL to $63,805 for the Porsche Cayenne.

Vehicles were selected for this diverse test grouping because of product changes. The Porsche Cayenne and Infiniti QX56 were both fully redesigned for 2011. The Ford Edge and Lincoln MKX were extensively freshened for 2011. Since CR’s last test of the Chevrolet Tahoe, it received a six-speed transmission. The magazine previously tested a 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo with a V6 engine. It performed poorly in CR’s emergency handling tests, so a Grand Cherokee Limited V8 was tested to evaluate how it would perform in CR’s emergency handling tests. It did better than the V6 in those tests. CR also evaluated the performance of the Jeep’s V8 power train.

The Porsche Cayenne is one of the most agile-handling SUVs on the market. The Cayenne feels well planted as speeds increase and has a controlled and compliant highway ride. The Porsche Cayenne ($63,805 Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price as tested) is powered by a 300-hp, 3.6-liter V6 responsive engine that gets 19 mpg overall in CR’s own fuel economy tests. The eight-speed automatic transmission shifts frequently but imperceptibly. Braking is Very Good. Towing capability is impressive for a mid-sized SUV. The interior is finished with lots of high-quality materials but the many controls can be confusing. The three-way-split rear seatbacks fold forward, and there is a pass-through for longer items. Cargo space is good-sized.

The Infiniti QX56 is a large and plush SUV. Its large size and awkward handling makes it difficult to maneuver and park. Emergency handling is poor, as the stability control steps in too late to avoid some tail slide. The QX56 shrugs off most road imperfections but on the highway, some body motions persist. The Infiniti QX56 ($63,395 MSRP as tested) is powered by a 400-hp 5.6-liter V8 engine that provides strong acceleration but gets only 15 mpg overall. The seven-speed automatic transmission shifts very responsively and smoothly. Braking is Very Good. The interior is very plush and well-finished. Folding down the second and third rows opens up a huge but sloping cargo hold and cabin storage is generous. Tow capacity is generous and the QX56 performed well in CR’s demanding off-road course.

The Jeep Grand Cherokee tackles corners willingly and with very little body lean. It is steady on the highway, and the cabin stays pleasantly quiet, with muted engine noise. On-road refinement is impressive, given that the Jeep performs well off-road and can tow a heavy trailer. The Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited V8 4×4 ($42,765 MSRP as tested) is powered by a 360-hp 5.7-liter V8 engine that has plenty of power but averaged just 14 mpg overall. The five-speed automatic transmission shifts smoothly and responsively. Braking is Very Good. The interior has soft-touch panels and nicely-finished leather seats. Cargo room can be expanded by folding the rear seatbacks, and the tailgate window opens separately.

The Chevrolet Tahoe sails along with ease but rough roads unsettle the ride a bit. The highway ride is composed and compliant, but dips can make it feel unsettled. The huge cabin stays nicely quiet. However, handling is ungainly and stopping distances are long. The Chevrolet Tahoe LTZ ($57,435 MSRP as tested) is powered by a 320-hp, 5.3-liter V8 engine that gets 14 mpg overall. The six-speed automatic transmission shifts smoothly and helped fuel economy and acceleration a bit. Braking is Good. Interior fit and finish doesn’t impress at the Tahoe LTZ’s high price. The interior fit and finish is pretty good. The two halves of the third-row seat fold and tumble, but maximizing cargo space requires removing them, and they weigh 55 pounds each. With the second-row seats tumbled forward and the third row removed, cargo space is voluminous. The Tahoe can tow a heavy trailer and is competent off-road.

The Lincoln MKX absorbs most bumps with decent isolation. The 2011 freshening improved its handling. Ride motions are well controlled, and the highway ride is uneventful. The Lincoln MKX ($50,235 MSRP as tested) is powered by a 305-hp V6 engine that provides very good acceleration and gets 18 mpg overall. The six-speed automatic transmission is mostly smooth, but shifts are not always seamless. Braking is Very Good. The interior is luxurious and most components fit well together with lots of wood and stitched leather. The cargo area can be expanded by folding the split rear seatbacks. This creates a good-sized cargo hold. The MyLincoln Touch control system eliminates even basic knobs like the radio volume knob, instead using touch-sensitive controls or touch screens. Testers found the system complex and buggy.

The Ford Edge has good interior space, easy access, and a lively engine. For 2011, the Edge’s suspension, steering, and drivetrain were changed to improve handling and fuel economy. But controls were significantly worsened by the complex MyFord Touch technology. The Ford Edge SEL ($37,635 MSRP as tested) is powered by a 285-hp 3.5-liter V6 engine that provides brisk acceleration and 18 mpg overall. The six-speed automatic transmission usually operates smoothly but sometimes shifts with a jolt. Braking is Very Good. Most components fit together well and the interior is nicely finished. Folding the 60/40-split rear seatbacks creates a good-sized cargo hold.

With more than 7 million print and online subscribers, Consumer Reports is one of the most trusted sources for information and advice on consumer products and services. It conducts the most comprehensive auto-test program of any U.S. publication or Web site and owns and operates a 327-acre Auto Test Center in Connecticut. The organization’s auto experts have decades of experience in driving, testing, and reporting on cars. To subscribe, consumers can call 1-800-234-1645 or visit www.ConsumerReports.org .

FEBRUARY 2011

The material above is intended for legitimate news entities only; it may not be used for advertising or promotional purposes. Consumer Reports® is published by Consumers Union, an expert, independent nonprofit organization whose mission is to work for a fair, just, and safe marketplace for all consumers and to empower consumers to protect themselves. We accept no advertising and pay for all the products we test. We are not beholden to any commercial interest. Our income is derived from the sale of Consumer Reports®, ConsumerReports.org ® and our other publications and information products, services, fees, and noncommercial contributions and grants. Our Ratings and reports are intended solely for the use of our readers. Neither the Ratings nor the reports may be used in advertising or for any other commercial purpose without our permission. Consumers Union will take all steps open to it to prevent commercial use of its materials, its name, or the name of Consumer Reports®.

- By: Omar Rana

2009 GMC Acadia SLT

It isn’t only Toyota that faces recalls in the millions – General Motors has announced a recall consisting of 1.5 million vehicles to address a problem with the heated windshield wiper fluid system that could lead to a fire, its second recall over the same issue in two years.

GM conducted a similar recall two years ago but said it has come across reports of new fires. The company said it had reports of five fires but there were no injuries or crashes reported. The recall consists of 1.4 million vehicles in the United States, 100,000 in Canada, Mexico and other international markets.

This time around, GM said it would completely disable the heated washer fluid system feature and will pay car owners and those leasing the vehicles $100 since the system is being deactivated.

The recalled vehicles cover the following 2006-2009 model year vehicles:

• 2006-2009 Buick Lucerne
• 2006-2009 Cadillac DTS
• 2006-2009 Hummer H2
• 2008-2009 Buick Enclave
• 2008-2009 Cadillac CTS
• 2007-2009 Cadillac Escalade, Escalade ESV and Escalade EXT
• 2007-2009 Chevrolet Avalanche, Silverado, Suburban and Tahoe
• 2007-2009 GMC Acadia, Sierra, Yukon and Yukon XL
• 2007-2009 Saturn Outlook
• 2009 Chevrolet Traverse.

- By: Omar Rana

Source: Yahoo News

Review: 2010 Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid

Just as we jumped out of the 2010 Cadillac Escalade ESV Platinum, we were ready to get right behind the wheel of another GM full-size SUV, the 2010 Chevrolet Tahoe. However, instead of burning gas and averaging something like 2 mpg, we were given the chance to be a bit greener, albeit a very light shade of green with the 2010 Tahoe Hybrid. This car is primarily for those who need plenty of passenger space and tow heavy loads, while at the same time achieving better fuel-economy than they otherwise would with other full-size SUV”s currently on the market.

Despite the greener mechanics, the Tahoe Hybrid remains mostly unchanged from its gasoline-only counterpart in key areas of functionality. The seating capacity is exactly the same, and the towing and payload capacities are highly competitive even when compared to non-hybrid SUV”s in the segment. There are some subtle key enhancements however, specifically in those areas that contribute to fuel-economy. Read on to find out just what they are.

Hit the jump to read more and to view our high-res image gallery (at the bottom of the post).

Review: 2010 Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid:

2010 Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid Specifications:

Base Price: $50,720 (AWD Tahoe Hybrid starts at $53,525)
Price as Tested: $54,977.
Engine: 6.0L V8 ”“ 332-hp /367 lb-ft of torque mated to GM’s Two-Mode Hybrid.
Curb Weight: 6,200 lbs (6,000 lbs for AWD).
0 to 60 mph: 7.5 seconds.
Fuel-Economy (city/highway): 21/22 mpg (20/20 mpg for AWD).

All Photos Copyright © 2010 Omar Rana ““ egmCarTech.

Review: 2010 Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid

Exterior:

Generally speaking, the body of the Tahoe Hybrid conserves the design of the standard Tahoe, save for a few changes that while they appear to be for the sake of aesthetics, are actually quite functional as they serve to improve fuel-economy.

The fog lamps and tow hooks have been removed from the front fascia, and the lower air-dam helps redirect air flow beneath the truck to reduce turbulence and drag. The wheel openings have also been re-sized, allowing for an impressively low drag coefficient of .34. The front grille opening has also been increased in size so as to allow increased airflow to the radiator and engine compartment. The back of the vehicle sees the addition of an extended rear-spoiler and aerodynamically designed LED brake lamps (the LED technology uses less energy). Tapered running boards and lack of side-rails on the roof-rack also contribute to this improvement in turbulence and drag.

Another key fuel-economy feature is the use of aluminum for the hood and lift-gate; they reduce weight considerably, but that also means you won”t get the power lift-gate since all the electronics add weight. The use of lighter-weight aluminum is also carried down through the wheels, which are low-mass, aero-efficient 18-inch cast aluminum.

Review: 2010 Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid

Interior:

Design cues inside the cabin also suggest the hybrid nature of this vehicle. There is a special hybrid gauge cluster that includes a special tachometer incorporating an Auto Stop position just above the 0 rpm mark which indicates when the gasoline engine is in shut-down mode. Also included in this cluster is an analog economy gauge that helps the driver operate the vehicle in a manner that is more efficient. To help the driver further gauge his driving, the main center console also features a standard 6.5-inch full-color VGA navigation display that doubles as a monitor which shows a graphic representation of the hybrid drivetrain”s power flow.

There is a long list of features that come standard in the Tahoe Hybrid; automatic dual-zone climate control, rear climate control, heated leather front seats, pass-through 60/40 split rear seats, entertainment system with DVD player and 7-inch center mount screen for rear passengers, Bluetooth connectivity, adjustable pedals, and a rearview camera which is fed into the navigation screen.

All in all we were pleased with the interior, except for GM”s use of hard plastic around the front console and the lack of space around the third-row of seats. We sincerely hope that GM opts for soft-touch materials in lieu of the hard plastic in future revamp of this full-size SUVs, which is due sometime in 2013.

Review: 2010 Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid

Performance:

The “˜10 Tahoe Hybrid derives its power from two sources; a Vortec 6.0L V8, and GM”s Two-Mode Hybrid System which consists of two 60 kw electric motors that derive their power from a 300-volt nickel-metal hydride battery. The 6.0L produces 332 horsepower and 367 lb-ft of torque, and only requires regular gasoline. The engine also features Active Fuel Management, which allows four of the 8 cylinders to shut down when not needed. With the assistance of electric boost, the engine is able to operate on 4 cylinders for extended periods.

The engine also features something called Auto Stop Mode, which essentially shuts the engine down when the car falls to 0 mph. This has a tremendous effect on fuel-economy in stop-and-go driving scenarios. Considering all of the economy features of the engine and the fact that the Tahoe Hybrid also features regenerative braking, which recharges the battery by reclaiming energy created from the depressed brake, one would expect the “˜10 Chevy Tahoe Hybrid to post some outstanding fuel-economy figures.

That is however, not the case. The EPA estimates the AWD model at 20/20 mpg (city/highway), while the 2WD is estimated at 21/22 mpg. During our test, we drove as we would in a regular SUV, and we were not at all impressed with the average fuel-economy of 16 mpg that we managed.

On a more positive note, the Tahoe Hybrid is capable of towing up to 6,200 lbs in 2WD configuration and up to 6,000 lbs in AWD configuration; figures that should serve as more than sufficient for 90% of the buyer’s requiring towing capabilities.

Review: 2010 Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid

Overall:

We have serious doubts as to whether paying the premium price for the Hybrid version is justified by the minor gains in fuel-economy one would see over the gas model ““ and that goes for any hybrid.

The “˜10 Tahoe comes with a starting MSRP of $37,280, while the Hybrid variant carries a starting tag of $50,720; a premium of $13,440. Weigh that differential in price with the EPA estimated 15/21 mpg. If a 5 or 6 mpg increase in fuel-economy fits your life style to the extent that it is worth over $13,000, then by all means go ahead and make the purchase, just be prepared to keep the car for a very long time to recoup that extra price premium.

Review: 2010 Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid:

- By: Stephen Calogera

All Photos Copyright © 2010 Omar Rana ““ egmCarTech.

It was pretty inevitable and now it’s confirmed that GM has canceled its CXX program – a program designed to develop the next-generation Chevrolet Tahoe and Suburban SUVs along with siblings GMC Yukon and Cadillac Escalade.

According to The New York Times, vice chairman Bob Lutz has confirmed that the next-generation of these products have been canceled. He said: “It would have been very difficult in today’s environment to spend a couple of billion dollars to do a replacement.”

The next-generation Tahoe/Suburban along with the Yukon and Escalade were set to arrive in 2011 as 2012 models. GM had originally planned to spend a total of $2 billion on completely redesigning the SUVs and retooling the plants that build them.

It is still unclear whether the current models will continue in production until 2011 or will be eventually phased out. It’s been previously reported that the Cadillac Escalade could move to the Lamda platform used for the GMC Acadia, Saturn Outlook, Chevrolet Traverse and the Buick Enclave.

Source: InsideLine