William Maley
Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com
September 23, 2013
General Motors is considering whether or not to do off-road-focused versions of their next-generation full-size SUVs.
"We are looking at, for this generation, a more off-road variant," said Jeff Luke, GM's executive chief engineer for trucks.
Luke explains that off-road capability is a major reason why buyers go to full-size SUVs and not crossovers.
Owners "just love off-roading with these vehicles. They look at this vehicle as more off-road capable" than crossovers, said Luke.
GM sold a Z71 off-road package for their current-generation of full-size SUVs. The package added stronger shocks, larger wheels, and special styling cues such as bigger wheel flares and badging. The Z71 package was never a big seller though.
Luke also said that GM would introduce more enhancements after the SUVs go on sale in March. When asked if an eight-speed automatic would be making its way into the SUVs, Luke said "Stay Tuned".
Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required)
William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at [email protected] or you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster.
Recommended Comments
Join the conversation
You can post now and register later. If you have an account, sign in now to post with your account.
Note: Your post will require moderator approval before it will be visible.