Chevrolet News:2014 Chevrolet Impala Starts At $27,535

[G. David Felt]

Seems you can get a pretty good deal on used Jeep Grand Cherokees SRT8's

http://www.autotrader.com/cars-for-sale/searchresults.xhtml?zip=98043&endYear=2013&keywordPhrases=SRT8&listingType=used&driveCodes=4WD|AWD&engineCode=8CLDR&listingTypes=used&sellerTypes=b&showcaseListingId=334599280&mmt=[JEEP[JEEPGRAND[]][]]&modelCode1=JEEPGRAND&driveCode=4WD|AWD&showcaseOwnerId=100015786&startYear=1981&makeCode1=JEEP&engineCodes=8CLDR&numRecords=100&searchRadius=0&bodyStyleCodes=SUV&sortBy=derivedpriceASC

Here is a lovely 2006 Black Jeep SRT8 with only 98K miles for $18K

http://www.autotrader.com/cars-for-sale/vehicledetails.xhtml?zip=98043&endYear=2013&keywordPhrases=SRT8&listingType=used&driveCodes=4WD|AWD&engineCode=8CLDR&listingTypes=used&sellerTypes=b&showcaseListingId=334599280&mmt=[JEEP[JEEPGRAND[]][]]&modelCode1=JEEPGRAND&sortBy=derivedpriceASC&driveCode=4WD|AWD&showcaseOwnerId=100015786&startYear=1981&makeCode1=JEEP&engineCodes=8CLDR&numRecords=100&searchRadius=0&bodyStyleCodes=SUV&listingId=333873349&Log=0

[G. David Felt]

So now back on topic. In reviewing the comments and the packages of this car, It makes one wonder where should an Auto maker draw the line on what is offered on a auto?

People are wanting their cake and eat it too and yet we already know that people living outside their means will eventually be a drag on society and the average tax payer. With that said, the gov pushing all these nanny devices are making auto's for the privileged and ignoring the need to allow someone to get into a basic car cheap and work their way up.

I wonder if the packages and features on this Impala do not impede into expected higher level auto's and should be cut. I know the auto industry is trying to give all at every level, but I feel one does have to draw a line on what is really expected on a cheap entry level, mid level and upper level auto.

[ponchoman49]

Wow so the LS model is 2.5 4 cylinder only. That sucks. Now your forced into paying about 8-9K more for that 3.6/6 speed combo in the new car which is right smack into the entry level eAssist and V6 LaCrosse pricing. I wonder if the fleet LS base models will be available with the V6 like they did with the 04-08 base Malibus? I'm really curious to see how this car fares for interior room, rear seat legroom which does look good on paper and how it drives and handles.

[hyperv6]

A younger person buying a stripped down large sedan is just not realisitc. First they would avoid the lack of options and two they would not buy a large sedan.

Generally if you can not afford the larger car you can't afford the gas either so they tend to go for the smaller higher MPG models or even buy used if they can pony up the money.

There are many reasons many young people drive cheaper Hondas and it is not just price.

And few (esp. younger buyers) wants a stripped down car of any size. Interior content and electronic features is as important as mileage and price to younger buyers.

That is true and some find it hard to grasp. In this day and age they are more worried about what sound system vs what engine.

[Robert Hall]

That is true and some find it hard to grasp. In this day and age they are more worried about what sound system vs what engine.

Yes....as long as the dirty bits are reliable (most are today), it's the interior gadgets that count. Because that is where people spend their time w/ a car. Inside.

And most buyers don't care about performance or handling, since most driving today is tedious and dull...the slog to work on congested freeways and city streets, driving through crowded parking lots, dodging incompetent drivers and zombie pedestrians.

Rarely does one have time to actually have 'fun' driving a car. Thus the excitement about Google's self-driving cars...

Edited November 30, 2012 by Cubical-aka-Moltar

[hyperv6]

That is true and some find it hard to grasp. In this day and age they are more worried about what sound system vs what engine.

Yes....as long as the dirty bits are reliable (most are today), it's the interior gadgets that count. Because that is where people spend their time w/ a car. Inside.

And most buyers don't care about performance or handling, since most driving today is tedious and dull...the slog to work on congested freeways and city streets, driving through crowded parking lots, dodging incompetent drivers and zombie pedestrians.

Rarely does one have time to actually have 'fun' driving a car. Thus the excitement about Google's self-driving cars...

All depends on where you live and where you drive.

If I lived in San Fran or LA I can see the issues. Where I drive I take the side roads and the winding roads in the lakes area and try to take the perfect line. It is kind of my own small PCH so to speak.

Not all are this lucky but often these routes are around if one is willing to seek them out in their areas.

I have a few roads in W VA that would challange even some of the best. Smooth and winding with great elevation changes. One state route has a hair pin that has banking that makes one think Charlotte Speedway.

[ocnblu]

A former friend took the trip to Tail Of The Dragon with his motorbike. It is a super-challenging stretch of US Rt 129 on the Tennessee/North Carolina line that draws drivers from all over. I'd like to go sometime if I ever get something worthy of the route, like a 2014 Transit Connect 5-seater Wagon or something.

[hyperv6]

A former friend took the trip to Tail Of The Dragon with his motorbike. It is a super-challenging stretch of US Rt 129 on the Tennessee/North Carolina line that draws drivers from all over. I'd like to go sometime if I ever get something worthy of the route, like a 2014 Transit Connect 5-seater Wagon or something.

That is a nice trip but it is getting to be a pain like the PCH. Lots of trucks and lookers and hard to get a good run.

There are many roads in W Va. VA , Ky, TN and even Ohio that have much of the same thrill and less traffic. Though in Ohio you do have to watch for the Amish buggys.

I have one here is Ohio I just love to hammer down. It runs through smae small towns in the swiss hills of Holmes County. Many of these roads originally were Buffalo trails that were turned into Indian trails later used by settlers and then paved over for roads. These things are up, down and around the many hills, ridges and valleys. It really is much like the Swiss valley roads.

The 25 mile road in W VA is well paved and has great elevation changes. It is smooth and even has a run along a river where you can stand on it. You do have to watch for deer, bear and locals in their rusty pick ups trying to pass you on blind curves. These guys down there drive flat out no matter what the vehicle. LOL!

I also love the run from Mt Airy NC to Stuart VA and Martinsville. Only down there once you hit VA you have to watch for the cops as they are everywere. It used to be an old Moonshine run years ago and still may be with some of the dry counties there.

Edited December 1, 2012 by hyperv6

[Robert Hall]

-There are some great back roads in Ohio, I drove many of them when I lived there--my favorite roads being in Tuscarawas, Holmes, Carroll, Coshocton, Guernsey counties..my old stomping ground...had a lot of fun there in the late 80s-mid 90s with my 5.0. One of my favorites was nicknamed Rollercoaster Road...used to bottom out my Mustang on that one by cresting hills too fast .I miss taking weekend fun drives in Ohio's green hills....just ugly desert out in the sticks here (some decent windy roads, though).

But roads like those are for weekend pleasure driving, I'm talking about the daily grind to and from work...pretty much the same in most metro areas I've spent time in...congested roads in the burbs and cities...the commute takes the fun out of driving.

Edited December 1, 2012 by Cubical-aka-Moltar

[Robert Hall]

Anyhoo, back on topic....I wonder if this Impala will be as heavily fleeted as the current model, not at first I suspect, but it will be a lower volume car than the current one, probably.

Edited December 1, 2012 by Cubical-aka-Moltar

[ocnblu]

Hopefully, production will match demand. I would hope that is the goal of every manufacturer, but GM has hurt themselves so many times in the past because of an imbalance.

[hyperv6]

-There are some great back roads in Ohio, I drove many of them when I lived there--my favorite roads being in Tuscarawas, Holmes, Carroll, Coshocton, Guernsey counties..my old stomping ground...had a lot of fun there in the late 80s-mid 90s with my 5.0. One of my favorites was nicknamed Rollercoaster Road...used to bottom out my Mustang on that one by cresting hills too fast .I miss taking weekend fun drives in Ohio's green hills....just ugly desert out in the sticks here (some decent windy roads, though).

But roads like those are for weekend pleasure driving, I'm talking about the daily grind to and from work...pretty much the same in most metro areas I've spent time in...congested roads in the burbs and cities...the commute takes the fun out of driving.

GM has moved the Impala to a place where the size and cost will limit sales vs the Impala of old. If people are willing to buy they will build as many as they want but the fact is at the price point it is at GM has moved the volume focus down to the Malibu and Cruze. Ford has done this as has Toyota etc. They all understand where the market it at today and Chevy was smart not to put the presssure on this car to be more than it can be unless market demand is there. I think it will be a better car because of this as it will have features not normally available at a lower price, it will hold value better not being fleeted and it will prove to be more profitable per unit for GM and dealers.

As for Ohio roads I love the one from Walnut Creek through Trail and into Winesburg in Holms county. That is one I have ever turn commited to memory.

I also take the side roads in the Portage Lakes south of Akron every day and avoid much of the drab freeways and stop lights. I not only picked up one MPG but I also have the winding roads around the edge of the lakes. In my younger days I had one corner I could 4 wheel drift in my Fiero. Not an easy thing to so in a stock Fiero. I had to limit myself once I added the Herb Adams kit to it as the speed was too much for the area.

[Robert Hall]

Agreed about the Impala...definitely could do well against the Taurus and Avalon. Portage Lakes, haven't thought of that area in ages...been there a few times about 20 years ago when I lived in Kent..went there w/ a buddy to look at a car once--guy had a rusty green '71 Grand Ville convertible for sale and a wrecked early '60s Jag E-type in his garage...

[hyperv6]

Yes the Taurus and Avalon are prime targets of the new Impala. The market as a whole has moved volume from full size and mid size to mid size and compact. In turn we will get a much better less compromised Impala. This Impala will be more like the Impala of old where it really was a special car and not just a slightly upgraded fleet car.

From 1958 to about 1972 the Impala really was something special. form 1973 and on the Impala/Caprice was not what is really used to be. It really got to the point there was not much difference from the top model to the bottom model over the last 20 years.

I travel from Just between Clinton, Canal Fulton and Manchester to Tallmadge every day. I only jump on a couple miles of interstate 76 at the Goodyear headquarters. The rest of the way I take the back roads and I love the winding back roads in th lakes. It is much less stressful.

But I know what you mean as I have also done the Santa Monica freeway at rush hour several times. Any more If I am in LA I kill time till later in the evening and head back to San Diego later on. I love to watch the sun go down over LA from the Griffith Observatory.

Edited December 1, 2012 by hyperv6

[hyperv6]

We also should note here how the Super Sport is being used now too. It has been made clear by GM that the Super Sport is not going to be just a G8 or GXP with a Chevy nose. This new model will move much higher up in comfort and performance vs the last VE car.

At this point it looks like a short option list but I would not be suprised to see it include things like a Magnetic suspension and even possibly a supercharged Gen V engine. While many have been thinking a Camaro SS 4 door it will be more closer to a ZL1 4 door.

I see this car getting people into the show rooms for a look but it will generate traffic to help get people to also look a tthe Impala and Malibu.

I just wish they would jump on the Malibu fast to pump it up as it was a old design that came late and it shows. I saw a new Fusion on the road today [not on fire yet] and it looked great I hate to say. It made much more of an impression vs the Malibu that kind of gets lost with the old Malibu and Cruze with the old Chevy face.

[G. David Felt]

Washington State North Cascade Highway is a drivers dream with the banks, turns and elevation changes. It is a drive I make every year as the 500 miles make the 8hr drive well worth it.

I suspect we will still see this car sold in healthy doses to the fleets. GM cannot ignor the free marketing and visual selling the rental market gives. I would hope they just balance it better with the rest of their product lines.

[vonVeezelsnider]

Judging by how well equipped the LT model is (the 2LT and 1LT are packaged the same except for engines) I can't see anything but the LS being fleeted in any meaningful volume. That will be the model sans-MyLink and some of the other niceties on the LT models, but still standard 18in alloys and whatnot so that model at what it's priced at is probably not the worst looking car or the worst value compared to a Charger or Taurus. That being said it's not something that I would buy- I'd be more looking towards at the top of the range LTZ V6. I'm sure overall sales are probably going to be a little less than half the 2011 numbers, 70k units seems reasonable for this car as I can still see it outselling the Taurus which while sweetened quite significantly for 2013 still does not entirely appeal to me.

[hyperv6]

The fact is GM is avoiding the fleet market if at all possibl to protect resale value. Just look how they have killed resale on the Grand Prix and other cars they dumped in the thousands on Enterprise.

We will still see volume cars sold to fleets in limited numbers for marketing and I am sure a handfull of Imapalas will also hit the market but no where in the numbers like the have been.

The path of the Captiva is what we will see more of. In fact I look for a large number of the old Impala getting dumped on the market soon. The only way we will see dumping is if GM get stuck with many models on the lots and can not sell them.

I saw a little while ago what GM expects this car to do and the numbers are way down but with the price being up they will remain a profit car. The fact this car will be mor car like and stylish will help it much vs many others like the SUV like Taurus. The Tarus looks more like an Explorer vs a Fusion.

The Cruze and Impala will be and remain strong profit cars for GM. My only worry again is the BU. Can they make the needed changes fast enough to bring the BU up to the lead in class. While the BU is not a bad car it is jst behind the others now and the styling is already dated looking. It needs the new Chevy nose soon.

[Drew Dowdell]

Very few people want stripped down versions of large cars these days. If there was a market for it, the Crown Vic would still be in production because that was about as stripped down as you could get and still meet federal regs. Otherwise, there is the Corolla.

[ponchoman49]

I think there will be more 2.5L Impalas on the lots than people think. Gas just stubbornly refuses to come down much and more than often surges right back up and over it's record prices set in 2008 with some areas like California seeing over 5 bucks a gallon. The 2013 2LT Malibu rental I had for a week was a pleasant surprise and really gave a good feel on how this new engine is. It provided more than adequate power in the near 3600 LB Bu, was liquid smooth at idle, never sounded boomy or vibratory and wound out quickly and smoothly to 6800 RPM. The Impala is set to weight about 100-150 LBS more than the BU but should have better gearing to compensate so power should be more than enough for shoppers looking for better MPG. Then there is the eAssist version which some have claimed up to 40 highway in the 2013 Malibu.

[vonVeezelsnider]

http://www.gminsidenews.com/forums/f13/spotted-2014-impala-s-oshawa-plant-115337/

Spotted outside the Oshawa Plant.

[hyperv6]

I think many will be suprised how well this car will look. I expect it will be very popular even at the higher price.

God knows it looks much better than the truck like Taurus.

Now if they could inject a little DNA here into the Malibu.

[regfootball]

I think there will be more 2.5L Impalas on the lots than people think. Gas just stubbornly refuses to come down much and more than often surges right back up and over it's record prices set in 2008 with some areas like California seeing over 5 bucks a gallon. The 2013 2LT Malibu rental I had for a week was a pleasant surprise and really gave a good feel on how this new engine is. It provided more than adequate power in the near 3600 LB Bu, was liquid smooth at idle, never sounded boomy or vibratory and wound out quickly and smoothly to 6800 RPM. The Impala is set to weight about 100-150 LBS more than the BU but should have better gearing to compensate so power should be more than enough for shoppers looking for better MPG. Then there is the eAssist version which some have claimed up to 40 highway in the 2013 Malibu.

I am not sure why people are lambasting the new Malibu and its powertrain. I found it excellent. Smooth, good power, the car as a whole is more refined than the Accord and Altima.

The 2.5 is nice, people need to get over it.

[Drew Dowdell]

The GM 2.5 is much smoother engine than the Nissan, but the Nissan has 400lbs less to pull around yet is a larger package with more room and with the CVT gets much better fuel economy.

[hyperv6]

The Malibu is not a bad car but it is just a good car in a tough segment.

GM doing a refresh this fast tells me they expected this. We know they pushed this car forward because it was late to start with and being later would have only been more diffcult to launch it. I suspect they launched it with what they had and continued work on the upgrades they knew they needed.

Lets face it it is too soon for most car companies to react this fast unless they had expected to do so from the start.

The 1.6 Turbo will help and some of the other changes like a new nose to match the rest of the new Chevy lines will help. The nose would have been ok a couple years ago but it looks so much like a older Cruze. Compare it to to the Impala and Traverse and it looks dated.

[ocnblu]

brokenrecordbrokenrecordbrokenrecord

That new Impala would look really cool as a coupe, convertible and wagon in addition to the sedan. It really is time for GM to reopen their lines to more bodystyles, now that so many worthy brands have been killed.

[regfootball]

The GM 2.5 is much smoother engine than the Nissan, but the Nissan has 400lbs less to pull around yet is a larger package with more room and with the CVT gets much better fuel economy.

i do think some of that extra weight is why the malibu is a better road car.

the packaging of the malibu is one of its biggest problems.

i like CVT's but to be honest, cvt's are not the general's style. I think a 1.6t and 8 speed auto would likely within one or two mpg of the altima.