2008 Saab 9-7X Aero Wrap-up Review
February 7, 2008 by Malcolm
Filed under Automotive, General Motors (GM), Saab, SUV
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2008 Saab 9-7X Aero Review
New Saab’s are composed of a bit more than just a few parts left over in the GM parts bin. It is a nice combination of the original Swedish roots and GM’s new found strength. The new Saab 9-7X Aero is proof of the new found strength and the taste of the Swedish background. The new 9-7X Aero uses GM’s new 6 Liter V8 with 390 horsepower with a stunning 0-60 time in 5.9 seconds. Towing capacity is bumped to 6600 lbs. The new Aero version comes in at $46,755 while the test vehicle shown here tops $50,200. This is the Chevy TrailBlazer SS’s other sister.
The pitfall we find at Automotive Addicts would be the eye sore fuel economy stats. We feel this may hurt a buyer’s excitement when this bad boy starts drinking down some $3 plus a gallon gas at the rate of Obama and Clinton fighting each other.
We like the “look” of the new Saab 9-7X Aero, sportiness and sexiness in one big SUV package.
Wrap-up
•Engine:6L V-8
•Dimensions: 113″ wheelbase; 193.2″ length
•Base price: $46,755/tested $50,200
•Fuel economy: 12/16 mpg
New York Auto Show 2008: New El’ Camino NO it’s a GMC 4 door Holden
The GM Zeta platform is getting worn out already. Holden will use the platform for a new 4 door utility vehicle for the Australian automaker. The new utility vehicle should resemble the old Holden Crewman show in the images.
The new concept of this upcoming GMC El’ Camino-esq vehicle should show up in the 2008 New York Auto Show. So stay tuned!
New SUV’s rate higher in Rollover Ratings
August 30, 2007 by Malcolm
Filed under Automotive, Automotive News, SUV
More and more SUV’s on the market are getting better scores for the rollover ratings tests conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHSTA). About 78 models of new SUV’s earned a four-star rating, compared to just 48 of the 103 tested from the 2006 model year. This increase in safety is mostly linked to the addition of stability control standard in most new models of SUV’s. The stability control system automatically applies brakes to each wheel when the car loses control while skidding or in other avoidance maneuvers. Rollover accidents account for just 3% of all accidents but result in 33% of all traffic fatalities. The government has mandated that stability control be standard on all vehicles by 2012.
2008 Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid
August 13, 2007 by Malcolm
Filed under Automotive, Automotive News, Chevrolet, Hybrid, SUV
You can have your BIG cake and then EAT it at the same time while saving a little money… right?
With SUV sales still at a steady pace despite the high gas prices the markers still choose to develop a fill sized Hybrid SUV. This is a good thing actually; even though the initial price of such a vehicle might be a little higher the fuel and eco savings will be tremendous. Just think of the very high consumption rates of a large SUV. Having a large Hybrid SUV you’re looking at around a 25% less consumption of fuel over a long term. SUV’s have huge gas tanks and drink large amounts and you spread out the savings on the long term your looking at a good return rate in driving a Hybrid Large SUV.
Here are some tid-bits on the new upcoming Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid SUV:
Source: (cars.com)
Vehicle Overview
Chevrolet’s full-size Tahoe sport utility vehicle will be available with a two-mode hybrid powertrain for 2008. GM says combined fuel economy savings are expected to be 25 percent. Pricing information has not been released.
Developed jointly by BMW, DaimlerChrysler and GM, the hybrid system can team with both gasoline and diesel engines.
Exterior
Compared to the regular Tahoe, the hybrid’s distinguishing characteristics are minor. The 2008 Tahoe Hybrid rides 1 centimeter lower to the ground, which enhances the SUV’s aerodynamics. Other modifications designed to help the Tahoe Hybrid slip more easily through the atmosphere include a revised D-pillar and flared ends for the running boards. The front fascia has a larger air intake.
The hood and liftgate are made of aluminum to save weight, and the wheels are fitted with low-rolling-resistance tires. Hybrid badges are on the C-pillars, liftgate and trailer hitch cover.
Under the Hood
The two-mode hybrid powertrain teams with a V-8 engine that has GM’s Active Fuel Management cylinder deactivation technology. The first mode, which allows the Tahoe Hybrid to move on just electric power, just engine power or a combination of the two, is designed for city and light-load driving. The second, mostly highway mode provides electric-power assist for the V-8, which can run on all cylinders or as a V-4 when the cylinder deactivation system is on.
Safety and Interior
General Motors has not finalized standard safety equipment or interior options for the Tahoe, which is expected to go on sale later in 2007.
2007 Hummer H3X Test Drive
June 27, 2007 by Malcolm
Filed under Automotive, Hummer, SUV, Test Drives
In just two short years, the Hummer H3 has carved out a niche for itself in the mid-size sport utility segment with its unique bold Hummer looks, class-leading off-road performance, in comfort and safety.
2007 Chevrolet Tahoe LTZ 4×4 Test Drive
June 14, 2007 by Malcolm
Filed under Automotive, Chevrolet, SUV, Test Drives
The all-new 2007 Chevy Tahoe LTZ is the beginning of the modern full-size sport utility vehicle. This ‘top-of-the-line’ full-size sport utility has it all heading into the 21 st . century, and gives you a lot of value for your dollar, more than any other full-size SUV.














