Product Reviews Net » Chevrolet http://www.product-reviews.net Information on the latest gadgets, technology, news and product reviews Sat, 26 May 2012 11:39:50 +0000 en hourly 1 http://wordpress.org/?v=3.3.2 GM ponders 06-07 Chevrolet TrailBlazer recall http://www.product-reviews.net/2012/02/14/gm-ponders-06-07-chevrolet-trailblazer-recall/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=gm-ponders-06-07-chevrolet-trailblazer-recall http://www.product-reviews.net/2012/02/14/gm-ponders-06-07-chevrolet-trailblazer-recall/#comments Mon, 13 Feb 2012 23:01:21 +0000 Peter Chubb http://www.product-reviews.net/?p=148718 We need to stress that a recall for the 06-07 Chevrolet TrailBlazer has not been issued yet but it’s a huge concern for GM, as if an issue is found it could also affect three of their other models. The NHTSA has received several complaints that suggest there have been door fires in these vehicles and as a result could possible affect 309,000 of these SUVs.

A total of 12 complaints have been received with concerns regarding the power window switches and other related parts, It has been reported that there have been a few fires or smoke inside select TrailBlazer models, thankfully there hasn’t been any injuries.

This is the same issue that has affected 830,000 Toyota Camry and RAV4 vehicles, it’s not as strange as you think because both companies sourced the parts from the same supplier and if NHTSA find a link then there is a fear that this could become a widespread recall.

From what we already know the Buick Rainier, GMC Envoy and the Saab 9-7X share the same power window switch, and while there is nothing owners of these vehicles can do for now, we would advise you to be extra vigilant and if there are any signs of smoke then you need to get in contact with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration right away.

It’s hard to say how long this investigation will go on for, but owners of the affected Chevrolet TrailBlazers will be waiting patiently for the verdict, as will we. If you do have any worries or experience issues with one of these models then contact your local dealer, but maybe you should consider disconnecting the battery first.

There seems to be some confusion as to who the issue is down to because we have heard a few people suggesting Toyota is to blame, but it’s too early to start pointing fingers. The best course of action is to wait until the inquiry is over before we make any assumptions, but it’s certainly worrying and just highlights the fact that vehicles of today are more about quantity and not quality.

Looking over some of the cases we were worried to learn that when a fire did occur the engine was off and the vehicle was left unattended, now could you imagine if you left the vehicle at the parking lot or in the garage where it could not only set another vehicle on fire but also your home while you are asleep?

We are sorry to be so harsh, but you have to consider how series this issue could be. Have you experienced any issue with your 2006-2007 Chevrolet TrailBlazer?

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]]> http://www.product-reviews.net/2012/02/14/gm-ponders-06-07-chevrolet-trailblazer-recall/feed/ 4 Disappointment with 2012 Chevy Sonic brakes and mpg http://www.product-reviews.net/2011/10/14/disappointment-with-2012-chevy-sonic-brakes-and-mpg/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=disappointment-with-2012-chevy-sonic-brakes-and-mpg http://www.product-reviews.net/2011/10/14/disappointment-with-2012-chevy-sonic-brakes-and-mpg/#comments Fri, 14 Oct 2011 08:21:48 +0000 Peter Chubb http://www.product-reviews.net/?p=142974 Chevrolet has been trying to feel a little excited with the launch of the new 2012 Chevy Sonic, as they have made a number of enhancements so that it can take the place of the Aveo. This model a step-down from the Cruze, but the promised 40MPG does seem a bit of a stretch. Looking over some of the specs you will be in for some disappointment, as the actual figure during a recent review was just 27.6 mpg, not to mention that the rear brakes were not discs but drums.

This is a little shocking really, as you would have thought that most cars would have disc brakes all round? That’s not all, going back to the mileage issue, because the MPG figure was much lower than expected, that meant that The Augusta Chronicle could only manage 325 miles on a full tank of gas. Seems like the Automaker needs to make a few re-calculations.

It’s not all bad, as the interior and the safety aspect is much improved when compared to the Aveo. Okay so we know that we have an issue with those brakes, but they will stop the vehicle when needed. However, you do have the comfort of knowing that you are surrounded by ten – yes ten – airbags as standard. There were a few teething issues during a recent test drive, which can be read in the full review.

The price for the 2012 Chevrolet Sonic starts at $13,735 and goes up to $16,535. However, you will need to add another $760 on that for a destination charge. The engine has a 1.4-liter displacement and will produce 138hp; this can be increased if you select the turbo option. The main rivals for this car will be the Ford Fiesta and the Honda Fit.

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]]> http://www.product-reviews.net/2011/10/14/disappointment-with-2012-chevy-sonic-brakes-and-mpg/feed/ 3 2012 Camaro ZL1, exceeding price expectations http://www.product-reviews.net/2011/09/29/2012-camaro-zl1-exceeding-price-expectations/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=2012-camaro-zl1-exceeding-price-expectations http://www.product-reviews.net/2011/09/29/2012-camaro-zl1-exceeding-price-expectations/#comments Thu, 29 Sep 2011 21:24:08 +0000 Peter Chubb http://www.product-reviews.net/?p=141662 There are truly some amazing 2012 model cars coming, if not here already, and one that recently hit the headlines was the Chevy Camaro ZL1. The reason for the sudden interest is due to the fact that this new model has exceeding price expiations. Instead of costing around $50,000, the first model went to auction and got $250,00 – now why would anyone want to pay that for a muscle car?

However, we should not lose sight of why it fetched so much money, it was because the proceeds were going to the YMCA of Southern Nevada, which was the charity of choice for Hendricks Motorsports, as the Examiner reports. We do not expect to see the Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 until early next year, which is also when the buyer will receive theirs.

We have to say that this is the best version of the Camaro that Chevy has made for many years, and we just hope that drivers feel the same, as it would be a shame for the car to be just another model? What makes this version so special is how it helps to commemorate the 1969 Camaro ZL1, which as most of you will know is a true legend.

The new incarnation of the ZL1 will come with a very powerful 6.2 liter V8, which produces 580hp. We cannot say how well it will handle, but do not expect anything like you get from a German made car. We are sorry to upset true American car fans, but it’s a fact that Muscle cars are made for speed in a straight line, and cannot seem to handle a corner like a BMW or an Audi.

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]]> http://www.product-reviews.net/2011/09/29/2012-camaro-zl1-exceeding-price-expectations/feed/ 2 GM recall: 2012 Impala and LaCrosse models affected, problems listed http://www.product-reviews.net/2011/08/12/gm-recall-2012-impala-and-lacrosse-models-affected-problems-listed/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=gm-recall-2012-impala-and-lacrosse-models-affected-problems-listed http://www.product-reviews.net/2011/08/12/gm-recall-2012-impala-and-lacrosse-models-affected-problems-listed/#comments Fri, 12 Aug 2011 19:30:26 +0000 Alan Ng http://www.product-reviews.net/?p=139007 We have some important news to bring you now, as it has been confirmed that GM have another recall situation on their hands. This time, General Motors are recalling their 2012 Chevrolet Impala and Buick LaCrosse models due to safety-related problems.

At the moment, the recall only affects car owners in US and Canada as a power steering fluid hose issue has targeted 11,915 Chevrolet Impalas according to a fresh release from the Associated Press this week.

The problem occurs when the power steering fluid hose gets too close to the catalytic converter contained inside the motor. The hose can melt, leading to a leak of fluid which is obviously a fire hazard that General Motors are unwilling to take a risk on.

Aside from the problem affecting almost 12,000 Impalas, GM has also issued a recall which affects 4,293 Buick LaCrosse due to a different issue. It has been discovered that the sedans are prone to a software defect which regulates the malfunctioning sensor contained on the vehicle. Unless the software is updated, the sensor can fail to handle the car properly, which in turn could lead to a crash.

The good news, is that no injuries or crashes have been reported according to General Motors, both for the Impalas and the LaCrosse models. If you currently own either of these models, you may think that the problems listed above do not warrant a recall, but considering what has happened to other car manufacturers most notably Toyota, you cannot blame General Motors for being over precautious.

Remember to be aware of production dates though before you worry about if you are affected or not. The Impala recall affects models that were produced between April 19, 2011, through July 29, 2011, while the LaCrosse models are being recalled with production dates of June 9, 2011, through July 2, 2011. If these dates apply to you, get in touch with us below. Tell us how you feel about General Motors’ latest recall.

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]]> http://www.product-reviews.net/2011/08/12/gm-recall-2012-impala-and-lacrosse-models-affected-problems-listed/feed/ 0 Apple fan queuing for iPhone 5, despite lack of release date info http://www.product-reviews.net/2011/07/29/apple-fan-queuing-for-iphone-5-despite-lack-of-release-date-info/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=apple-fan-queuing-for-iphone-5-despite-lack-of-release-date-info http://www.product-reviews.net/2011/07/29/apple-fan-queuing-for-iphone-5-despite-lack-of-release-date-info/#comments Fri, 29 Jul 2011 00:47:23 +0000 Jamie Pert http://www.product-reviews.net/?p=137791 I know there are hundreds and thousands of you out there who are eagerly anticipating the birth of the Apple iPhone 5. Heck I bet some of you have even booked time off work so you can stand in line with the rest of the hopefuls awaiting to be one of the first to get a iPhone 5 in their hands. Now, some of you may think these people are mad, but wait until you hear about the fellow who’s already started queueing. Bonkers right? You’re wrong.

Now this story has come from Metro who have been doing the scoop on this guy. Rob Shoesmith, who has apparently quit his day job has been living off free goods and handouts and to date, has blagged over $40,000 worth of stuff. Amazing, huh!?

Shoesmith is 29 years-old and has managed to get all sorts of wonderful and wacky giveaways. They range from small bottles of aftershave and scented candles to the more extraordinary luxury items such as use of a £20,000 Chevrolet car and hundreds of pounds worth in outdoor gear and food from the best restaurants around.

Of course, I bet you are wondering how this former bin-man turned marketing executive manages to get so much gear? Well, we can tell you that it is all part of a cleverly thought up advertising campaign. Get it? camp-aign? Rob, you got a coat for us? Thanks.

As you can guess, Rob works for a company that endorses all the free items he gets. He is after all, a marketing executive, and works for Medl Mobile. He then uses his popular blog to promote the companies who have donated him the products that he can use to help him survive his iPhone 5 camping experience.

He told Metro.co.uk of his relationship with his postman at the moment, and say’s jokingly “The postman doesn’t like me right now, something’s coming through every day at the moment.”

The stunt, which by now is all over the internet has attracted so much attention that we are sure he will double his $40,000′s worth of free gear, and generate lots of new contracts with companies who he has contacted for the use of free goods so far.

When he is done with this experience, Rob intends to donate all of the stuff he has acquired to charity, as long as it is reusable though.

This is not the first time Rob Shoesmith has been in the limelight though, as in 2009, he made headlines with a design for an iPhone application that ended up being picked for a competition.

So, what do you make of this stunt? Do you believe he is being stupid and greedy, or could actually be a genius? I bet it made you think, why didn’t I think of this, didn’t it?

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]]> http://www.product-reviews.net/2011/07/29/apple-fan-queuing-for-iphone-5-despite-lack-of-release-date-info/feed/ 0 Best collector cars, changing popularity http://www.product-reviews.net/2011/07/08/best-collector-cars-changing-popularity/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=best-collector-cars-changing-popularity http://www.product-reviews.net/2011/07/08/best-collector-cars-changing-popularity/#comments Fri, 08 Jul 2011 10:23:31 +0000 Peter Chubb http://www.product-reviews.net/?p=136353 We do not profess to be experts when it comes to choosing the best collector cars, but after long studies we have found that there is always a changing popularity in what models will be bought by investors. Most of those looking to invest in a car that is considered to be a collectors item will not like the idea of having it just sitting there going to waste. No, they will want to use and drive it, to not only get pleasure themselves but also for others who will be able to share in its beauty.

This upcoming decade will certainly see a few changing choices when it comes to the best collector vehicles, but you do not have to worry about them being any of those that are designed by a computer and then built by a robot. Having said that, there are a few cars of today that seemed destined to become vintage cars of the future, which you can read for yourself in our recent article.

So here are a few models, which we believe are still very popular, and will be for the next few years. First up is the 1970-1972 Chevrolet Camaro, this was the follow up to the first-generation model and has never been given the respect that it deserves. The first model seemed a little raw, so for those who like their classic cars to have a little more refinement, then the second-generation is the model for you.

Next we have the 1966-67 Ford Fairlanes, and has to be one of the best looking cars that the Blue Oval has designed. What makes these cars so popular with collectors is how they have a range of engine choices and after-market spares are plentiful. The 1969 Ford Talladega also joins in with the fun here and not only offers breathtaking looks, but also a ride to match.

No matter what year we are in you cannot have a best collectors car list without mentioning the 1967-70 Mustang Coupes and Fastbacks. It is cars like this that should be celebrated on a Google Doodle when the Fourth of July comes round. You do not have to be an expert to see why these cars are considered to be so desirable; it seems that the cars sole purpose is to bring joy to others.

Our last car on this list is the 1966-71 Dodge Charger and has always been one of those iconic models, and that will never change – no matter what decade we are in. Well that is what we know, if you have any more to add then please do.

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]]> http://www.product-reviews.net/2011/07/08/best-collector-cars-changing-popularity/feed/ 1 ’96 Chevy Corvette gets homemade electric conversion http://www.product-reviews.net/2011/06/30/96-chevy-corvette-gets-homemade-electric-conversion/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=96-chevy-corvette-gets-homemade-electric-conversion http://www.product-reviews.net/2011/06/30/96-chevy-corvette-gets-homemade-electric-conversion/#comments Thu, 30 Jun 2011 17:45:40 +0000 Chris Maugham http://www.product-reviews.net/?p=135763 Electric cars are finally beginning to make their mark on the vehicle industry. More and more manufacturers are beginning to favor the electric motors to the traditional combustion engines and why, because environmental issues are now being taken into account more than ever by consumers.

Though it will be many years before we see only electric cars manufactured and many more before the roads are clear of the combustion engine vehicles completely, the revolution is certainly underway. We have recently brought you news of several electric vehicles including the Volvo C30 and the Audi e-tron, one of several tipped competitors for the Nissan Leaf.

Today we bring you news of an electric car with a difference. What makes this one so special is it was not manufactured as an electric vehicle, instead the owner decided it was time to convert his combustion engine car to run on electricity. Wayne Bickley owner of a ’96 Chevy Corvette had come to a conclusion that it was time to replace his old engine setup with a homemade six-speed transmission, a DC electric motor and a set of 18 XS Power Xp1000 batteries.

Apart from the obvious engine change, he kept the rest the same with its black sporty exterior. The converted Corvette is now capable of travelling 20 miles on electricity and can reach speeds of up to 85mph. as you can tell from the video featured in the article at AutoblogGreen; the sound of the car is also very different.

Chevrolet currently has plans for new Corvettes in the mix which are due for release over the next few years. The C7 Corvette is expected around 2014, we previously brought you news of how it will replace a Corvette which is expected in 2012. However neither of these models is to be electric.

If it’s electric supercars you are after check out the Jaguar C-X75 hybrid supercar which we previously brought you news about. It is set to go into production and providing you have around £700,000-£900,000 available in your funds you can own one in 2013.

What are your thoughts on electric and hybrid vehicles like these? Would you consider converting your current engine into an electric motor as Bikley did? Let us know in the comments below.

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]]> http://www.product-reviews.net/2011/06/30/96-chevy-corvette-gets-homemade-electric-conversion/feed/ 0 Luxgen EV Vs. Chevy Volt Vs. Nissan Leaf: Consumer demand http://www.product-reviews.net/2011/06/22/luxgen-ev-vs-chevy-volt-vs-nissan-leaf-consumer-demand/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=luxgen-ev-vs-chevy-volt-vs-nissan-leaf-consumer-demand http://www.product-reviews.net/2011/06/22/luxgen-ev-vs-chevy-volt-vs-nissan-leaf-consumer-demand/#comments Wed, 22 Jun 2011 12:48:42 +0000 Peter Chubb http://www.product-reviews.net/?p=135317 Whenever you think of green vehicles there are three models that come to mind, the Toyota Prius, the Chevy Volt and the Nissan Leaf. We have to point out that the latter two are more alike than the former, which is why you often see them side-by-side when talking about their green credentials. However, there could be a new car to add to that list, and that is the Luxgen EV.

Now consumer demand tells us that we need more vehicles like the Volt and Leaf, so it is nice to see a start-up coming right in amongst the big boys to shake things up a little. Luxgen’s MPV is an electric vehicle and early reviews seem very positive, and the most shocking part is that the car has not taken that long to develop.

Whenever you think about some of the top make cars in the world you think, German, Japanese or American. However, how often has the Chinese been put in that same category – if not they could be soon? The best part is that this vehicle has seven seats, something that the new Prius V was meant to have, but Toyota stalled at the last moment.

Autoblog had some time to test the new Luxgen EV MPV and although much larger than the Chevy Volt and Nissan Leaf, they couldn’t help notice that it felt more agile and punchy. The interior seemed to be on par if not better than its rivals, but things were not all good, as there was a horrible noise coming form the drivetrain. Having said that, this is expected to be resolved when the production model comes out – when that is we do not know.

We have high hopes for this start-up, as they could show the big boys a thing or two. Something like this could give the likes of Nissan, Toyota, Ford and GM a wakeup call, as you do not have to be big and have a huge amount of resources to build a car that the consumer want.

So how do the three vehicles compare when it comes to how much power comes from their electric motors? The Luxgen has a 150-kW AC motor, the Volt 111-kW and finally the leaf 80 kW. Let’s not read too much into this, as the Luxgen needs that extra power because it weighs so much more than the other models. Having said that, this new start-up is all ready to shakeup the EV market, and we say good luck to them.

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]]> http://www.product-reviews.net/2011/06/22/luxgen-ev-vs-chevy-volt-vs-nissan-leaf-consumer-demand/feed/ 0 2012 trucks: Preview of upcoming models http://www.product-reviews.net/2011/06/20/2012-trucks-preview-of-upcoming-models/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=2012-trucks-preview-of-upcoming-models http://www.product-reviews.net/2011/06/20/2012-trucks-preview-of-upcoming-models/#comments Mon, 20 Jun 2011 20:09:00 +0000 Peter Chubb http://www.product-reviews.net/?p=135161 Now that drivers are more aware of our environment gone are the days when many American’s just go down to their local dealer and purchase the biggest, badest truck on the market. Some still do, but most look out for their green credentials – although they are still very high. Today we will have a look at the 2012 trucks and preview what we believe are the best upcoming models

First up is the BMW M3 concept truck. Now before we get going on this one there were suggestions that this was in fact an April Fools. You may wonder why we would still wish to discuss the vehicle, it is just the idea of it, as it’s pretty awesome. Looking at some of the images on Euro Car News you will see just what we mean, how could you resist such a vehicle with a 4.0-liter V8 engine, which can produce 420 horsepower?

Next we have the 2012 Ford Ranger, now we already know that this is the real deal and the first thing that you need to know is that this upcoming model will see an increase in power. The interior has been improved and has a more spacious feel to it. However, it is the technology advancements that will appeal to most, such as a new rearview camera parking system, parking assist and so much more. Visit The Car Connection for more news on the smaller F-150.

Most truck fans will know that the most successful pickup ever is the Ford F-150, so you will be pleased to know that the Detroit automaker is to give the vehicle a complete redesign. Ford has made a habit of making radical changes to some of their models, as they have never looked back. The new 2012 Ford F-150 is set for launch in Q4 2011, and will powered by a 6.8-liter V10 engine – no sign of going green there then.

You cannot claim to be a true truck fan without ever owning a Jeep truck, so we have pleasure in telling you that there is to be a 2012 model, which will be released in the third quarter of 2011. From what we know this new Jeep will be based on the four-door Jeep Wrangler JK Unlimited, but will come with two-doors instead. Power will come from a VM Motori 2.8-liter engine – so way down on power compared to the monster F-150 above.

These are just some of the 2012 models coming our way, but there are so many more. What model are you looking most forward to?

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]]> http://www.product-reviews.net/2011/06/20/2012-trucks-preview-of-upcoming-models/feed/ 2 Update on next-gen 2014 (C7) Chevrolet Corvette http://www.product-reviews.net/2011/06/17/update-on-next-gen-2014-c7-chevrolet-corvette/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=update-on-next-gen-2014-c7-chevrolet-corvette http://www.product-reviews.net/2011/06/17/update-on-next-gen-2014-c7-chevrolet-corvette/#comments Fri, 17 Jun 2011 15:50:06 +0000 Marlon Votta http://www.product-reviews.net/?p=134963 Improvements to be made, with an update on the next generation 2014 (C7) Chevrolet Corvette.

In an article by Viknesh Vijayenthiran over on Motor Authority, he reports that the 2014 Chevrolet Corvette (C7) will offer better feedback and quality from new platform. With monthly rumors of the Chevrolet C7 Corvette by random sources and fans, you can occasionally get official information from inside General Motors.

The information we know already is that the Chevrolet C7 Corvette will arrive two years after the 2012 Chevrolet Corvette; this means that it will be a 2014 model that could be accessible in the latter part of 2013. With news that General Motors have announced a $131 million investment in the Kentucky Bowling Green plant, and a view from their North American boss, Mark Reuss who is saying the C7 will be “completely different”.

In addition, the General Motors design boss Ed Welburn view is that the new “Vette will get a split rear window along with some other vintage styles”, inspired by the 1963 Corvette Sting Ray. The overall dimensions of the car will probably stay the same but a thought that weight-conserving measures should be adapted. The quality of the interior is the engineer’s main concern, to show the inside of a $100,000 car to its fullest, with improvements to materials, layout and finish.

Do you feel that customer feedback will help any future updates? For more information, visit Motor Authority.com.

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