GMI's Chevrolet Revitalization in Action Feature Debuts!
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Check out the Chevrolet Mini Site HERE!
And when you're done reading, vote in our poll HERE
MUST READ: This is Part 1 of this lineup, and is only CARS.
And when you're done reading, vote in our poll HERE
MUST READ: This is Part 1 of this lineup, and is only CARS.
Welcome to the fifth lineup introduction in GMI’s Revitalization in Action series. The RIA series is a collaboration of the GMI Staff, which includes ChevroletRevived, the Writer and Director of RIA, Fbodyrules, head design artist and Administrator NSAP, who provides renderings of the vehicle interiors and our RIA Mini Site designer, GMI Member camaro_freak. Our mission? To show, with realistic feasibility, how great GM product can and will be. Given the vast size and scope of the Chevrolet lineup, we have split this lineup into 2 parts: car and truck, with the truck lineup to come later. As GM’s largest volume brand, Chevrolet the “heartbeat of America” is looked to as a important barometer of implementation and success of GM’s turnaround. This is in mind, we took production of this lineup very seriously and as such, it’s the hardest RIA done so far. Chevrolet is all about choice, and in that mindset, we’ve added a dose of rear wheel drive retro style with the Impala and Bel Air/Nomad models, while adding to, diversifying and strengthening the brand’s core mainstream sellers. We hope you enjoy the work we’ve done on GM’s No. 1 brand!
Model Lineup:
Chevrolet Beat- Hatchback Mini Car, Gamma, Fiat 500
Chevrolet Aveo- Subcompact, Gamma, Sedan/5-Door Hatchback, Yaris
Chevrolet Cobalt- Compact, Delta II, MX-5 | Opel GT
Chevrolet Volt - Upper Compact, Delta II, Prius
Chevrolet Malibu- Mid-Size, Sedan/Coupe/Convertible/Wagon, EPII, Camry
Chevrolet Bel Air & Nomad- Mid-Size, Convertible/SportWagon, Alpha, Eos
Chevrolet Caprice- Full-Size Sedan, Enlarged EPII, Avalon
Chevrolet Impala- Full-Size Sedan, Zeta, 300C
Chevrolet Camaro- Mid-Size Sports Coupe, Zeta, Mustang
Chevrolet Corvette- Full-Size Sports Coupe, Y-Body
Chevrolet Chevelle - Zeta Based Chevrolet Concept
An Overview
We made an effort to be as realistic as possible, presenting to you the best, most competitive and feasible Chevrolet lineup we could create. We made it our mission to turn Chevrolet’s mainstream vehicles into style leaders for their class. Styling has it‘s place of importance more then ever in an increasingly cutthroat market. Inside and out, design can be the factor that Chevrolet can use to capture buyers and change opinions. We’re already seeing it happen with the 2008 Malibu and over at Cadillac with the 2008 CTS. If people can get excited about their vehicles because it appeals to them emotionally, GM will have an easier time winning them over once again. As Mr. Lutz likes to say, it’s Product Product Product. The 3 P’s of the automotive industry. That’s what it’s all about.
The Most Important Brand
Chevrolet being as important as it is to GM, it’s very important not to make hasty decisions with what to produce. GM’s turnaround is riding on Chevrolet’s success in the market place. If Chevrolet does well, it’s a major indicator on the health of the corporation. So we made it a point to tread very lightly, and build on current successes. We aim for significant growth gains in this lineup, and work to achieve it in two ways. Expanding, strengthening and better positioning core models while bringing about new ones that will help get new buyers into the fold. This truly is our vision for the best Chevrolet lineup of the future.
Featured Chevrolet Concept: Chevelle
This is our featured RIA Chevrolet concept, the Chevelle. The Chevelle is based on the Zeta platform, and in our Feature, it would actually be positioned as companion vehicle to the Impala sedan. This changes Chevelle from it's traditional standing as a mid-size vehicle to be sold alongside the Malibu in the Chevrolet lineup. With Zeta being very flexible, there is potential for GM to be able to respond to the demands of the market very quickly. A Chevelle going into production has been something discussed at GM, it has not been seriously considered due to a perceived lack of public demand. You can prove them (and us) wrong though! Cast your vote for what you think is the best model in the Chevrolet Dream Lineup HERE! Below starts Part 1 of our production lineup.
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2010 Beat (Beat LTZ Shown)
Trim Levels
Base: LS
Mid-Level: LT
Up-level: LTZ
Introduction
The Beat was one of the 3 Triplets introduced by GM to “gauge consumer reaction” to this emerging North American market segment. Well, the reaction was very positive to say the least, and certainly one that has surprised many at GM. A website created with GM asking America to vote on which one they liked best. The Beat won, with the Groove taking the second place spot. Because of this and other factors, GM has announced that the Beat will be going into production. At Chevrolet, being the mainstream brand for GM, it’s important to have a little of everything and anticipate future market trends. As a novelty, the Beat could takeoff, and eventually gain in importance because of fuel prices.
We felt that this car is a very important car in the Chevrolet plan and that’s why it’s been included in our RIA lineup. The focus, as you’ll see later with the Volt as well, is on what we could do to improve on the Beat and make it more production ready.The Beat competes head on with the Fiat 500; this is Chevrolet’s equivalent vehicle. Beat will be a large seller in overseas markets, and it’s expected that the first generation Beat here in the U.S will be a low volume vehicle. Target dates for the Beat vary, from late 2009 to mid 2010. GM wants to get the Beat out quickly however, so we’ll likely see a production Beat as a 2010 model, coming sometime 2009 and most likely launched at an overseas auto show.
Specifications Sheet
Vehicle Type: 3 Door FWD Subcompact Hatchback
Size Comparison: Fiat 500
Competitors: Ford Fiesta, Fiat 500, Smart
Base Platform: Gamma
Drive Wheels: FWD
Engines:
LT: 1.6L 100HP Inline 4 - Starting at $13,500
LTZ: 1.6L 100HP Inline 4 - Starting at $14,999
Sport: 1.6L 125HP Turbocharged Inline 4 - Starting at $16,850
Optional Engine: 1.3L 75HP Diesel 4
Transmissions: 5 Speed Manual (Standard: LT/LTZ/Sport), 5 speed Automatic (Optional: LT/LTZ/Sport) No Cost Option on LTZ and Sport
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2010 Aveo (Aveo LTZ 5-Door Shown)
Trim Levels
Base: LS
Mid-level: LT
Up-level: LTZ
Sport: Aveo Sport
Body Styles
Sedan, 5-Door Hatchback
Introduction
The 2007 Aveo sedan and 2008 Aveo 5 are huge improvements over their predecessors; GM Daewoo has provided GM with a very significant center of small car expertise, and that shows in the latest products from the region. Small is in, and this segment is poised for much growth in the next few years, as fuel economy and low cost become more prevalent factors in the buying process. It’s important for GM to have a strong player in this segment, to capture the fuel and price-conscious as well as first time car buyers.
Aveo has the potential to become an increasingly more important model for Chevrolet, and firmly establish a position at the top of it’s class. In RIA, the Aveo stays true to it’s original mission of being frugal and economical, while adding distinctive style along the way. Who says cheap can’t be cool? MPG is a big concern here, and enhancements are made on this model in regard to weight and aerodynamics. Following in that vein, horsepower is only increased modestly and being the line is held on weight, performance is increased as well. Moving inside, the Aveo is well designed to compliment it’s hip exterior. It shows a commitment to small car excellence in all areas. The interior is modern, with available navigation system and integrated switchgear with LED backlighting.
Starting at a low price of only $12,500 is the Base LS model, coming standard with a 5 speed manual and an improved next generation 2.0L 115HP ECOTEC 4. Next is the LT, starting at $14,350, also standard with a 5-speed manual. Starting at $16,150 new addition to the Aveo trim line is the top end LTZ model, coming standard with an automatic transmission and a 2.0L 125HP ECOTEC 4. Leather seating and a navigation system are optional on the Aveo LTZ, for those who want a well-equipped and high end small car. Arriving around 2009 as an 2010, the production Aveo should benefit from a lot of positive publicity and advertising surrounding the Volt, and people looking into that car will be coming into Chevrolet showrooms to check out what the brand has. One thing is for sure; small cars have a big place in the future of the new GM.
Specifications Sheet
Vehicle Type: Sub Compact FWD 5-Passenger 4-Door Sedan and 5-Door Hatchback
Size Comparison: Current Aveo
Competitors: Honda Fit, Toyota Yaris, Nissan Versa
Base Platform: Gamma
Drive Wheels: FWD
Engines:
LS: 1.6L 115HP ECOTEC 4 - Starting at $12,500
LT: 1.6L 115HP ECOTEC 4- Starting at $14,350
LTZ: 1.6L 125HP ECOTEC 4- Starting at $16,150
Transmissions: 5 speed Manual (Standard: LS/LT Optional: LTZ), 5 speed Automatic (Optional: LS/LT, Standard: LTZ)
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2009 Cobalt (Cobalt SS Coupe Shown)
Trim Levels
Base: LS
Mid-Level: LT
Up-level: LTZ
Sports: SS
Body Styles:
Coupe, Sedan
Introduction
Introduced in 2005, the Cobalt was a dramatic improvement over it’s predecessor, the Cavalier. It really was a huge step forward for GM in the small car segment. As it’s stands, the current Cobalt is a competent small car but with all the changes that have came about at GM over the past few years, GM could put forth a class leading effort at a compact. There is a lot of potential for appealing to the Gen Y youth market that Toyota has been trying to capture with it’s Scion brand. The current model has done some of what it was intended to do however, and the SS Coupe in particular has met success with the youth market. Every model has it’s place, but each brand has it’s core pillar models. For the Chevrolet car lineup, the Cobalt is one of those pillars.
Volt-like styling is apparent on the Cobalt, and it’s fitting given their close relations, both being based off of Delta II and being developed alongside each other. In this lineup, the SS in particular was a focus, because of it’s importance in appealing to the market the Cobalt is intended. The positive attention given to the SS by it’s target will have lasting effects for not only the whole Cobalt line, but for all of Chevrolet. Therefore stylistically Cobalt adds a lot of drama and excitement that’s missing from the current generation. With a wide stance, the Cobalt is handsomely bold, and a complete departure from the laid back styling of the current model. A promising development for the Cobalt has been the introduction of the Civic and more recently, the Corolla. To many, the Corolla is unappealing and boring, while they find the Civic too polarizing. This segment’s traditional class leaders Civic and Corolla haven’t been particularly strong on the product side, and there’s an opportunity for GM to gain some markets share here with a class leading entry. Because of the some missteps made by the competition, this is where GM’s focus on style can reap huge benefits. As has been said before, style can be the differentiator. No doubt, it can do for the Cobalt what it has done for the 2008 Malibu.
The Cobalt stops the upward march in standard HP in it’s lower trim levels, for reasons of economy. We’ve reached the point to where most all modern mainstream vehicles have more than enough HP. As such, LS and LT come with a standard 2.0L 150HP ECOTEC 4, an increase of only 2 HP from the previous generation. The higher end LTZ however adds 15HP, coming in at 165HP, still less then the current Sport model. And while Cobalt’s lower trim levels may be holding the line on HP, the Cobalt SS makes a return to the lineup, with more power then ever. Truly a pocket rocket, the SS trim is available in both sedan and coupe body styles. Who says a Chevrolet 4-door compact sedan can’t be fun? Not us! The $24,150 SS, is powered by a 2.0L 245HP High Output Turbo ECOTEC 4, with Direct Injection.
The Cobalt is currently being developed on the next-generation Delta platform. Potentially the Cobalt may be released as 2010 model, however this is another Chevrolet vehicle that GM has placed a priority on getting out quickly so we may see this come as a 2009 model. So for our RIA feature, we’ve decided to go with the best scenario; a launch for the next generation Cobalt in late 2008 as a 2009.
Specifications Sheet
Vehicle Type: Compact FWD 4-Door Sedan and 2-Door Coupe
Size Comparison: Current Cobalt
Competitors: Toyota Corolla, Mazda3, Honda Civic, Subaru Impreza, Ford Focus, (Cobalt SS): Mazdaspeed3, Honda Civic Si, Dodge Caliber SRT-4
Base Platform: Delta II
Drive Wheels: FWD, AWD (SS)
Engines:
LS: 2.0L 150HP ECOTEC 4 - Starting at $15,250
LT: 2.0L 150HP ECOTEC 4 - Starting at $17,250
LTZ: 2.0L 165HP ECOTEC 4 w/DI - Starting at $20,450
SS: 2.0L 245HP ECOTEC HOT 4 w/DI - Starting at $24,150
Transmissions: 5-speed Manual (Standard: LS), 6 Speed Automatic (Standard: LT/LTZ/SS Optional: LS), 6-Speed Manual (Standard: SS, Optional: LT, LTZ)
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2010 Volt (Volt LTZ Shown)
Trim Levels
Base: LT
Up-level: LTZ
Introduction
This is a car that needs no introduction; everyone knows about the revolutionary concept car from GM that debuted at the North American Auto Show in 2007. The Volt made waves and received more media attention then even the Camaro at it’s NAIAS 2006 launch. For sure this is the most important vehicle program GM has embarked on. Since the hugely positive reception, the Volt program has been the recipient of an intense focus at GM. All of the company is committed to making sure the program succeeds.
The revolutionary thing about the Volt isn’t in it’s styling, it’s in the E-Flex system. E-Flex is a revolutionary departure from the Internal Combustion Engine setup. And, in the long run as economies of scale kick in, the system will be cheaper to produce, with less components then a traditional automobile. And those economies of scale will kick in, because GM plans widespread E-Flex availability. Notice, we’ve gotten rid of the Transmission category, and replaced the designation Engines with Generators. Because in fact, that’s what they are. The Volt is an electric vehicle with a gas generator. No doubt about it, this is no conventional hybrid. For the Volt’s styling, we went in and smoothened everything out, making the Volt concept more suitable for production. Also, we were mindful of the need to achieve a good coefficient of drag, and improvements have been made in this area over the concept vehicle. In both styling and specifications, we expect this to be very close the production Volt. In line with GM’s public price targets, the Volt LT starts out at $25,650, with the LTZ coming in at $30,250. The Volt starts production in 2010, as a 2010 model. This will likely be done for PR reasons, keeping the model year within the decade, even though GM only gave until 2010 for an actual on-sale date.
Specifications Sheet
Vehicle Type: Midsize 4-Passenger 2 Door Plug in Electric Vehicle
Size Comparison:
Competitors: Toyota Prius, Honda FCX Clarity
Base Platform: Delta II
Drive Wheels: FWD
Generators:
LT: 1.0L 55HP ECOTEC 4 - Starting at $25,650
LTZ: 1.0L 55HP ECOTEC 4 - Starting at $30,250
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2012 Bel Air & Nomad (Bel Air LTZ Hardtop, Nomad LT Shown)
Trim Levels
Base: LT
Up-level: LTZ
Sport: SS
Body Styles
Convertible Hardtop, Nomad SportWagon
Introduction
Based on GM’s upcoming Alpha platform, Nomad and Bel Air make a comeback to the Chevrolet lineup as niche heritage vehicles. Both introduced as concepts a few years ago, they are produced true to their conceptual form, and designed with Chevrolet’s latest styling elements. The two cars compliment each other perfectly, and Bel Air fills a gap at Chevrolet for an upper end luxury convertible with retro style. Four vehicles make up what we like to call the Chevrolet “heritage lineup”, the HHR, Impala and Bel Air/Nomad. These vehicles are designed to draw on the appeal of Chevrolet’s classics and bring them into the modern age. The “volume” vehicle of the two (if you want to call it that) would be the Nomad; and it‘s priced accordingly. The potential is here for some quite nice profit margins on the upper end Bel Air models. Nomad is quite the value for what you get however, and should find quite a few buyers.
The Nomad is the sporty model out of these two, with sportier suspension tuning on all trim levels. Bel Air, the more expensive and luxurious model, is a luxury hardtop that's all about style. Inside, these two are modern, with hints of classic Chevrolet in their design. As with some recent products from the brand, two-tone interior coloring is displayed prominently in the LTZ and SS models. Nomad and Bel Air also mark a comeback to the availability of two-tone exterior paint, which is available at extra charge across the model lineup.
The Nomad and Bel Air are available in 3 trim levels, the base being the LT. Starting at $32,250 for the Bel Air and $30,150 for the Nomad, they are powered by a 2.0L 245HP ECOTEC High Output Turbo 4, the same one found in the Cobalt SS. Fuel efficient and powerful, the ECOTEC is well suited as a base engine for these vehicles. Next is the Bel Air’s defining model, the LTZ, which would be the most popular Bel Air trim level. Powered by the 3.0L 295HP HF V6 with Direct Injection found in the Malibu, the Bel Air LTZ starts at $36,995 and Nomad LTZ, $33,250. With it’s RWD platform begging for power and sports suspension tuning, we were sure to oblige with an powerful SS model. In this guise, GM’s 3.6L HF making 335HP is stuffed into the Alpha platform, making for two very quick vehicles. Bel Air SS starts at $39,250 and Nomad SS at $36,250. Word from the inside is that GM is actually considering similar vehicles, but is paying special attention in bringing out one similar to the Bel Air hardtop convertible model. With the Alpha platform not out yet and these vehicles yet to hit full scale development, we set a feasible launch date for late 2011 as a 2012 model.
Specifications Sheet
Vehicle Type: Midsize RWD 4 Passenger 2 door Convertible and 3-Door SportWagon
Size Comparison: 2004 Nomad Concept, 2002 Bel Air Concept
Competitors: VW Eos, Volvo C70
Base Platform: Alpha
Drive Wheels: RWD
Engines:
LT: 2.0L 245HP ECOTEC HOT 4 - Starting at $32,250 (Bel Air), $30,150 (Nomad)
LTZ: 3.0L 295HP HF V6 w/DI - Starting at $36,995 (Bel Air), $33,250
SS: 3.6L 335HP HF V6 w/DI - Starting at $39,250 (Bel Air), $36,250
Transmissions: 6 Speed Automatic (Standard), 6 Speed Manual (Optional: LT/LTZ)
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2011 Malibu (Malibu LTZ Sedan Shown)
Trim Levels
Base: LS
Mid-level: LT, Hybrid
Up-level: LTZ
Sport: Malibu Sport
Body Styles
Sedan, Convertible, Coupe, Wagon
Introduction
The introduction of the new 2008 Malibu is a significant milestone for Chevrolet and GM's turnaround. There finally is a Chevrolet midsize sedan capable of being compared with the best of it’s foreign competition and playing right up there in the segment’s top tier. The Malibu is a very important vehicle for Chevrolet, as it’s market segment is one that holds some of America’s best selling vehicles. Also, most of GM's volume in this segment rests on the shoulders of the Malibu. The current Malibu is based on the Epsilon I platform, which has a few handicaps that will be done away with on the next-generation version of the platform. It has been said that the next generation of these cars is truly the time that GM puts it’s weight behind an all-out assault on the mid-size market. This in mind, we present to you what we feel is a class leading look at what the next generation EPIII Malibu could be like.
Chevrolet is all about choice, and we take that to heart in our proposed Malibu lineup. In this RIA, the Malibu line is expanded from just a single sedan to a 3 car lineup; convertible, coupe and wagon. A true “Malibu Family” the Malibu line will be a powerful force in the market and provide better economies of scale for the Epsilon II platform. Exterior size remains relatively the same, and the pricing scale broadens as the Malibu makes moves both up and down the market.
Inside, the Malibu continues the two-tone theme started with the 2008, and goes for a completely modern center stack, fully integrated and with a new switchgear layout. Radio controls are moved to the touch screen navigation system, with a color LCD screen (minus navigation) standard on every 2011 Malibu. Voice controls for the navigation, HVAC and radio are standard as well, in a bid to solidify it’s position as a class leading entry. HVAC is controlled through the center stack’s buttons, with the settings displayed on the LCD screen. GM’s latest efforts in interior lighting are sustained with LED lighting along the bottom of the center stack, illuminating the footwells at night. The Malibu makes a class leading attempt at mid-size market leadership, inside and out.
Following a mantra of Value and Choice, the Malibu trim lineup expands as well, offering more choice and options then ever before. Starting out at a lowered asking price of $18,950, LS comes standard with a 2.4L185HP ECOTEC 4 and a 5 speed manual transmission. Next is the ever popular LT, which moves you up to a 2.4L 185 HP ECOTEC 4 and an standard 6 speed automatic transmission. A model for the environmentally-conscious, the Malibu Hybrid comes with a smaller displacement 2.0L 150 HP ECOTEC 4 and the next generation BAS+ hybrid system, starting at $23,950. Following the mantra of choice, is a new addition, the LTZ 4 model. This provides buyers an option to get a fully loaded Malibu with a 4 cylinder engine, and starts at $24,650. Starting at $27,950 is the LTZ V6 model, with GM's new (it's in the works now) 3.0L 295HP HF V6 with Direct Injection. This setup provides better fuel economy and gets more power out of a smaller displacement engine. Giving a dose of sportiness to the Malibu line is the SS model, with the 3.6L bumped to 325HP and asking price of $31,250. Optional on this model is a 6-speed manual, adding the thrill of rowing your own gears to the family sedan. As has been said before, every bit of news and information has pointed to an all-out GM assault on the mid-size market with the next generation EPII platform, and most specifically with the Malibu. What that will mean? Time is yet to tell. In the meantime we have look at possibilities for the future with this Revitalization in Action, and also excellent product available right now, with the 2008 Malibu. Following the short expected time on market for the 2008 model, our proposed Malibu is launched at the Detroit show in 2010, with a launch in Spring of the same year as a 2011 model.
Specifications Sheet
Vehicle Type: Midsize FWD 5 Passenger Sedan 4-door Sedan, Midsize 4 Passenger Convertible/Coupe, Mid-Size 5 passenger Wagon
Size Comparison: 2008 Malibu
Competitors: Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Nissan Altima, Ford Fusion, Hyundai Sonata, Kia Optima
Base Platform: Epsilon II
Drive Wheels: FWD (Standard: LS/LT/LTZ/), AWD (Standard: SS Optional: LT/LTZ)
Engines:
LS: 2.4L 185HP ECOTEC 4 - Starting at $18,950
LT: 2.4L 185HP ECOTEC 4 - Starting at $21,950
Hybrid: : 2.0L 150HP ECOTEC 4 w/BAS+ Hybrid System - Starting at $23,950
LTZ 4: 2.4L 185HP ECOTEC 4 - Starting at $24,650
LTZ V6: 3.0L 295HP HF V6 w/DI - Starting at $27,950
SS: 3.6L 325HP HF V6 w/DI - Starting at $31,250
Transmissions: 5 speed Manual (Standard: LS, Optional: LT), 6 speed Manual (Optional: SS) 6 Speed Automatic (Optional: LS, Standard: LT/Hybrid/LTZ/SS)
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2011 Caprice (Caprice LTZ Shown)
Trim Levels
Base: LS
Mid-level: LT
Up-level: LTZ
Introduction
There has been talk of the Impala continuing in it's current FWD configuration, eschewing the RWD Zeta based alternative. There has been a number of different reasons this has been discussed, one being lost sales in the transition. The current Impala is the best seller of the GM fleet and the thinking is that the corporation shouldn't mess with that success. It has been painted as an either or decision, Plan A (RWD Impala, FWD Malibu) vs. Plan B (FWD Impala, FWD Malibu). Let us present to you Plan C, or what should be known as the real Plan A. Our plan adds another sedan to the Chevrolet lineup, the FWD Caprice. Our plan, instead of ceding sales, actually sets Chevrolet up in the position to grow sales and share. The FWD Caprice will be positioned to compete against the Taurus, Avalon and Azera.
This car would be a solid seller for Chevrolet; a more mainstream FWD large sedan to take the place of the current Impala. As such, excitement is not the intent here; there is no SS model and fuel economy takes precedence over 0-60 times. Not only for sales purposes, but GM wants it's high volume sellers to achieve good MPG numbers as the corporation braces for the possibility of CAFÉ and fuel economy legislation. The Caprice is a good value, and begins at the base end with the LS model, starting at $28,950 and powered by a 3.0L 235HP HF V6. The importance of fuel economy brought about the Hybrid model, powered by the V6 found in the LS and adding the next generation BAS+ hybrid system and starting at $29,995. The most popular model in the lineup, LT, starts at $30,450 and moves you up to GM's 3.6L 250HP HF V6. The luxury model in the lineup, starts at $35,950 and bumps the HP level up 35HP, while also turning up the dial on luxury inside and out. The best compromise has been reached in our opinion, with the inclusion of both the Caprice and Impala in our Dream Chevrolet lineup. Our FWD Caprice is a 2011 model arriving calendar year 2010 along with the Malibu, C7 Corvette and Volt.
Specifications Sheet
Vehicle Type: Full-Size FWD 5 Passenger 4 door Sedan
Size Comparison: Ford Taurus
Competitors: Ford Taurus, Toyota Avalon, Hyundai Azera, Kia Amanti
Base Platform: Extended Epsilon II
Drive Wheels: FWD
Engines:
LS: 3.0L 235HP HF V6 - Starting at 28,950
Hybrid: .0L 235HP HF V6 w/BAS+ Hybrid System - Starting at $29,995
LT: 3.6L 250HP HF V6 - Starting at $30,450
LTZ: 3.6L 285HP HF V6 - Starting at $35,950
Transmissions: 6 Speed Automatic
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2010 Impala (Impala LTZ Shown)
Trim Levels
Base: LS
Mid-level: LT,
Up-level: LTZ, SS
Introduction
With the Malibu and Caprice being positioned to fill the spot (and sales) held by the current FWD Impala, the next generation model is freed to move up market and onto the Zeta RWD platform. This allows for the car to draw on the heritage and goodwill of the Impala name by going retro in it's look and advertising. This car is squarely positioned to go head to head with the Chrysler 300C. It's big, bold and uniquely American. While this is an impractical approach to take for the whole Chevrolet lineup as some would like, we thought it suitable for the brand to have one large RWD sedan. That car is the Impala.
In the inside, a balance is struck between retro and modern. There's a metallic/black piano wood center stack with navigation and modern switchgear. The lighting color selected for this interior is cool blue and prominent throughout the interior. Thin blue LED light piping is found on the center stack and on the edges of the metallic door panel pulls. Some of the innovative things done here in this interior is the retro-style door/dash joining which echoes how it was done in the past, especially during the 1960's.
One of the concerns of a RWD Impala was CAFE. A RWD Impala would get worse fuel economy numbers then the FWD model. Mileage is a now a very big factor in GM's new vehicle development programs, and this was a concern that had to be addressed. As such the Impala uses the Dual Mode hybrid system, mated to a detuned 3.6L 250HP HF V6/w Direct Injection. This will achieve some very good fuel economy numbers helping to offset the minimal increases by the other models in the line. The base model Impala, LS, starts at $29,450 and is powered by GM's 3.6L HF making 265HP. Moving up to the LTZ, you get the same engine, making 35 more HP. No Impala lineup would be complete without an outrageous SS model. And the Impala SS is that car, powered by the 7.0L 550HP LS7 V8 found in the C7 Corvette.
This car has been the subject of much internal debate at GM as to it's future. As well as in the minds of those on GMI, their future has been debated with much passion. Impala is certainly a car that (to a much lesser degree however) has an enthusiast base like the Camaro. Given this, we decided to make an compromise that would please fans, critics and mainstream consumers alike. Our Impala arrives in 2009 as a 2010 model, alongside the Aveo and Beat.
Specifications Sheet
Vehicle Type: Full-Size 4-Door RWD Sedan
Size Comparison: Chrysler 300C
Competitors: Dodge Magnum, Chrysler 300C
Base Platform: Zeta
Drive Wheels: RWD
Engines:
LS: 3.6L 250HP HF V6
LT: 3.6L 285HP HF V6
Hybrid: 3.6L 250HP Detuned HF V6 w/Dual Mode Hybrid System
LTZ: 3.6L 315HP HF V6 w/DI Optional: 6.0L 385HP V8
SS: 7.0L 505HP LS7 V8
Transmissions: 6 Speed Automatic (Standard: LS/ LT/LTZ/SS), DSG 6 (Optional: SS)
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2011 Corvette C7 (Corvette LT Shown)
Trim Levels
Base: LT
Mid-level: Z06
Up-level: SS
Introduction
The Corvette; such an iconic GM vehicle. It's the car that everyone loves, and has a place in the hearts and minds of millions of people around the world. It's Chevrolet's equivalent of the 911, and the two vastly different cars are often compared head-to-head as ideological opposites. The car that can compare with rivals costing far more; .that car is the Corvette. And that's the car we had the task of redesigning, quite possibly the hardest of all the RIA cars we have done before. Our hardest vehicle, in the hardest lineup. Efforts in this lineup have culminated with, and in our idea of what the next generation C7 Corvette should be. In this RIA, our C7 Corvette's styling follows an more evolutionary, rather then revolutionary path. Overall the car is much more emotional and dramatic, with a more planted stance and low-slung look. Things like a swooping downward character line add drama and excitement to the car, while still retaining that unmistakable Corvette look.
We followed the mantra of "don't mess with success" in hammering out the details on the C7, especially in regards to price. The Corvette is an attainable supercar, and that's something that shouldn't be changed. The LT starts at $47,150 and bumps up the horsepower from current C6 levels to 450HP. And, as is the case now, is available in a few different packages, 1LT, 2LT and 3LT. Z06, which starts at $70,250, increases the HP level to 600HP from it's 7.0L LS7 V8. A new addition to the model line is the "Super Corvette", which we have called the Corvette SS. The Corvette SS, starting at $115,000, has a supercharged version of the engine, making 850HP. The SS also adds features like ceramic brakes, something GM has opted out of the current car because of the over $10k cost. The price has been brought down though, however and it's a feature that certainly should be present on the very best of Corvettes.
Lots of debate on where to take the Corvette, both in RIA and inside GM. Some have said to take the Corvette mid-engine. That's the worst course of action because it destroys the very essence of the Corvette in that it's an attainable supercar. In price as well as styling, future Corvettes should stick to the principles that made it what it is. A mid-engined vehicle has it's place at Cadillac, but not as a Corvette. Our proposed C7 Corvette arrives around the time in 2010 as a 2011 model.
Specifications Sheet
Vehicle Type: Large 2-Door 2-Passenger Sports Car
Size Comparison: Current Corvette
Competitors: In a Class of it's Own
Base Platform: GM Y-Body
Drive Wheels: RWD
Engines:
LT: 6.2L 450HP LS3 V8 - Starting at $47,150
Z06: 7.0L 600HP LS7 V8 - Starting at $70,250
SS: 6.2L 750HP Supercharged LS9 V8 - Starting at $115,000
Transmissions: 6 speed Automatic (Optional: LT/Z06/SS), 6 speed manual (Standard: LT/Z06/SS)
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Conclusion
Well, we've reached the ending of another RIA Feature and in that, another milestone. Each RIA lineup has posed new challenges and forced us to think creatively. This one, however, has been the hardest yet. For months, we've been hard at work to bring you this lineup. For many reasons, but the most important being it's position as GM's largest and most important brand. With such a rich history, iconic names and fans, creating a balanced, realistic Chevrolet lineup proved tough. And in all of this, we've been striving for more detail, model views and interior designs. The amount of work put into Chevrolet is yet unparalleled for an RIA Feature. Hours have been spent debating specifications, hammering out details and creating the artist renderings. Part 1 of the Chevrolet lineup has been completed, with our truck lineup to follow a few months into the New Year. Thanks for your continued support, it's because of you that RIA has become the success it is. Happy Holidays and Merry Christmas from the team here at GMI!
GMI's Revitalization in Action | The Dream Saturn Lineup
Writer/Director: GMI Staff Member ChevroletRevived
Vehicle Design Artist: GMI Contributor George Loizou aka fbodyrules
Interior Design Artist: GMI Administrator NSAP
RIA Website Design: GMI Member Nick Wilcox aka camaro_freak
A Special Thanks To: Nick Wilcox for his continued contributions on the
RIA Mini Site! As well as mgescuro for his thoughts on the Chevrolet lineup.
Stay tuned for Part 2 of this Revitalization in Action feature on our Revitalization in Action Mini Site!
RIA Buick Lineup HERE
RIA Pontiac Lineup HERE
RIA Saab Lineup HERE
RIA Saturn Lineup HERE
Mini Site Homepage HERE
Just Added: RIA Wallpaper HERE
