Three trucks qualified for the 2011, all heavy-duty variants of established players in the full-size segment: the Chevrolet Silverado Heavy Duty, Ford F-Series Super Duty, and GMC Sierra Heavy Duty. All we needed to make this one of our standard comparison test was the Ram Heavy Duty, but it won Truck of the year twelve months ago.

The Three Heavy-Hitters for 2011

The six key items that are measured during testing are: 

1. Advancement in Design
2. Engineering Excellence
3. Efficiency
4. Safety
5. Value
6. Performance of Intended Function 

As was done last year, Motor Trend elected to bring two variants from each of the qualifying brands. Along with three gas-powered single rear-wheel trucks, they selected a turbo-diesel, double cabin, and dual rear wheel “Dualie” variant of each, for a total of six trucks. 

Heavy- Duty trucks demand heavy-duty testing, so they headed to a world-class vehicle evaluation facility just outside of Phoenix, Arizona, with a professional, knowledgeable and helpful staff. Nissan’s Arizona Technical Center (ATC) is a top-notch testing facility utilized not only by Nissan and it related companies, but also a number of well-known automobile and motorcycle manufacturers and suppliers on a contract basis. 

In addition to the standard complement of acceleration, braking and handling test, they also performed acceleration tests with giant sandbag payloads ranging from 2,000 to 4,000 pounds, depending on the truck. The towing ability of each truck with 7,000 pound trailers for the gasoline trucks and 12,000 pounds for the diesels were also tested. After the empty and laden test regimen, they ran all the trucks back-to-back through a driving loop that incorporated many of ATC’s varied driving surfaces. 

Along with the testing performed at ATC, the trucks were evaluated in the real world, on a rotating schedule during the roughly 350 mile drive from Los Angeles to Phoenix. 

After all the timing and testing, sandbag loading and note taking, they sat down to discuss the test results, reviewing the driving impressions and debate the individual selections. Then all was placed into a vote. 

Here are some of the comments made about each line: 

Ford F- Series: 

• Too Much Flash
• Not as powerful as it sounds and the engine sounds great.
• Looks like a ‘Transformer’
• Tap up – tap down transmission very functional. 

Chevrolet Silverado: 

• Understated – Very low-key, clean and simple. Making this an ‘honest’ truck.
• Wonderful Dynamics
• Absorbs road bumps nicely. 

GMC Sierra HD Denali: 

• Great styling
• Extremely similar to Chevrolet
• Drives like a car 

All said and done, it was deemed that the 2011 Chevrolet Silverado HD would be announced by Motor Trend as the 2011 Truck of the year. This was decided based on a one-vote difference between the 2011 GMC Sierra HD Denali. The key factor is that the Denali package should be stretched more to cultivate a luxury image. 

This being said, it is clear to state that General Motors has dominated the market with their HD Trucks as compared to their all-time leading rivalry of Ford.

See How it Measured. (Video)

www.YatesBuickGMC.com 
View Our Inventory and Pricing
 

Source: www.motortrend.com

“Verano will bring premium styling, performance and content to Buick buyers wanting a smaller car than Regal,” said Reuss. “The investment in Orion Assembly also extends GM’s local small car footprint, again increasing the number of U.S.-made small vehicles available in showrooms.”

The investment to retool the facility will retain 1,550 hourly and salaried jobs at Orion, along with 120 jobs at Pontiac Metal Center. In June 2009, GM announced that Orion would build the next-generation of Chevrolet’s new small car. The total investment for that program is approximately $600 million, which includes the Verano.

Buick Verano

GM has worked closely with the United Auto Workers to create new and innovative contractual language that will allow this facility to be flexible and lean – essential elements in the highly competitive, small car market segment.

“The UAW welcomes the news of an additional vehicle being allocated to the Orion Assembly Plant. Building small cars in the United States is very important to the UAW, Oakland County, and the State of Michigan,” said Joe Ashton, UAW vice president of the GM Department.

“Given the opportunity, our members can use their expertise and experience to build high-quality, affordable vehicles for American consumers. I would like to extend my congratulations to the members of UAW Locals 653 and 5960 for all their hard work to make this important project a successful one.”

Verano adds a premium compact entry into the market, expanding the portfolio of what is currently the fastest-growing mainstream brand in the United States.

Orion Assembly is in the process of retooling the plant, which last built GM midsize sedans, for future small cars. The improvements are expected to be finished by summer 2011.

Over its more than 27-year history, the Orion plant team members have built more than 4 million cars for GM, while setting an industry record of 10 million man hours of continuous operation without a work day lost to injury. The plant also was the first GM facility to receive the Clean Corporate Citizen designation by the State of Michigan.

No further details on production or timing for the Verano and Chevrolet’s new small car are available at this time.

About General Motors

General Motors, one of the world’s largest automakers, traces its roots back to 1908.  With its global headquarters in Detroit, GM employs 208,000 people in every major region of the world and does business in more than 120 countries.  GM and its strategic partners produce cars and trucks in 31 countries, and sell and service these vehicles through the following brands:  Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, FAW, GMC, Daewoo, Holden, Jiefang, Opel, Vauxhall and Wuling.  GM’s largest national market is China, followed by the United States, Brazil, Germany, the United Kingdom, Canada, and Italy.  GM’s OnStar subsidiary is the industry leader in vehicle safety, security and information services.  General Motors acquired operations from General Motors Corporation on July 10, 2009, and references to prior periods in this and other press materials refer to operations of the old General Motors Corporation.  More information on the new General Motors can be found at www.gm.com.

Yates Buick GMC
13845 W. Test Drive
Goodyear, AZ  85338

623-932-1818

Source:  GM
Jenelle@yatesbpg.com

General Motors has given the tall, hunky Mr. Goodwrench his walking papers, announcing it would drop the Goodwrench name on its dealership auto service and repair programs.  Instead, in more traditional fashion, dealership service customers will be treated to Chevrolet, Buick, GMC or Cadillac ‘Certified Service.’

“This is more than a name change, it is a declaration of our commitment to raise the bar on the ownership experience,” said Steve Hill, GM’s vice president for North American parts and service, in a statement.

The automaker has been working to put more emphasis on its remaining four automotive brands, and less on their common corporate ownership. 

Mr. Goodwrench was introduced back in 1977, and GM will begin phasing out the name in February, 2011.

“He was originally a nerdy, ’70s kind of guy,” GM spokeswoman Pam Flores said.

“Mr.” was dropped from Mr. Goodwrench in the 1990s, when the brand name changed, Goodwrench Service Plus.  Then the character was re-introduced in 2008 with a more polished, handsome image reflecting the modern nature of auto service, which now involves more technology and less grease, Flores said.

The old ads really built up the character of Mr. Goodwrench as a blue-collar, swarthy mechanic with ‘hands that care.’  But it seems that his presence started to remind customers that GM cars needed a hands on mechanic more than their Asian competitors.

Now, as GM simplifies its naming strategy – doing away with Hummer and Saab, for instance – Mr. Goodwrench has to go, too.

Source: GM News, CNN Money

DETROIT, Nov. 1, 2010 /PRNewswire/ — OnStar announced today that during the month of November it will donate $1 to the Fraternal Order of Police Foundation for each person who “likes” the OnStar Facebook Fan Page.  

OnStar’s Brave On Facebook “Like” campaign honors the heroism and charitable practices of the members of the Fraternal Order of Police (FOP). With a target goal of a $250,000 donation, OnStar will help FOP’s foundation provide services to the families of fallen officers during the holiday season.

“Providing assistance when people need it most is the essence of the OnStar brand and the emergency response community is essential to how we are able to execute critical safety and security services,” said OnStar President Chris Preuss. “It is our pleasure to support the Fraternal Order of Police Foundation as they support the families of officers who paid the ultimate sacrifice. This is one way that we’d like to show appreciation to everyday heroes.”

OnStar launched the Brave On campaign by pledging $40,000 on the behalf of its existing Facebook fans on Nov. 1.  Through Nov. 30, or until OnStar acquires 250,000 Facebook page “Like” pledges, existing fans will be encouraged to click the “Suggest to Friends” button to raise awareness for the cause. Facebook fans also will be encouraged to share their Brave On stories about the everyday heroes in their lives.

“The simple gesture of clicking “Like” on the OnStar Facebook page will have a big impact on the families of fallen officers over the holiday season,” said Chief David Hiller, national vice president, Fraternal Order of Police. “At the FOP, we are committed to improving the safety and working conditions of law enforcement officers and, during the holiday season, we are just as dedicated to ensuring the families of our departed men and women are not forgotten. We appreciate OnStar’s support in these efforts.”

To activate a $1 pledge to the Fraternal Order of Police Foundation, simply visit www.facebook.com/onstar and click “Like” to become a fan of the OnStar Facebook Fan Page.  Through Dec. 1, OnStar will post updates on donations through Facebook and Twitter, search #braveon.

About General Motors

General Motors, one of the world’s largest automakers, traces its roots back to 1908.  With its global headquarters in Detroit, GM employs 208,000 people in every major region of the world and does business in more than 120 countries.  GM and its strategic partners produce cars and trucks in 31 countries, and sell and service these vehicles through the following brands:  Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, FAW, GMC, Daewoo, Holden, Jiefang, Opel, Vauxhall and Wuling.  GM’s largest national market is China, followed by the United States, Brazil, Germany, the United Kingdom, Canada, and Italy.  GM’s OnStar subsidiary is the industry leader in vehicle safety, security and information services.  General Motors acquired operations from General Motors Corporation on July 10, 2009, and references to prior periods in this and other press materials refer to operations of the old General Motors Corporation.  More information on the new General Motors can be found at www.gm.com.

About OnStar

OnStar, a wholly owned subsidiary of General Motors, is the leading provider of in-vehicle safety, security and communication services. OnStar is available on more than 40 MY 2011 GM models. OnStar provides services to nearly six million subscribers in the U.S. and Canada. Shanghai OnStar Telematics Co. Ltd., a joint venture between OnStar, LLC, Shanghai Automotive Industry Sales Co., Ltd. and Shanghai General Motors, provides services in China. More information about OnStar can be found at www.onstar.com. OnStar Stolen Vehicle Slowdown is a recipient of the 2010 Edison Award for Best New Product in the technology category.

SOURCE General Motors

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After 84 years, Pontiac has passed (the New York Times even wrote Pontiac an obituary). And we are now Yates Buick GMC. Yesterday, the last new Pontiac was sold and now the brand is available, Used only.

What do you remember about Pontiac? 

1969 Pontiac GTO

To mark the passing of an era, Pontiac still has services for current or nostalgic Pontiac owners.

If a certified used Pontiac is not on your wish list this year, you might do well to sit yourself in a Chevy Camaro, a Buick Regal, or Cadillac CTS-V for the staying power that the GTO once held. Dramatic and distinguished, these models are the next wave of technology and efficiency. It’s been a long road for Pontiac, and now, we’ve come to the end of that road.

On their website, Pontiac has bid fans goodbye, noting, “It’s been an incredible ride.”

1970 Pontiac Lemans

We at Yates also wave goodbye to Pontiac, remembering the good times, but unlike the Pontiac in our old name, Yates isn’t going anywhere. We are happy to still be your Buick and GMC dealer.

Visit our dealership in Goodyear and our sales team will help you match your nostalgia with a new or certified use vehicle.

You will now have the peace of mind you deserve when considering a GM Certified Used Vehicle. Purchase a GM Certified Used Vehicle, and you’re purchasing total confidence. With a 117-point inspection, two great GM warranties, free vehicle history report – and more – a GM Certified Used Vehicle delivers more satisfaction and certainty than an ordinary used vehicle. All of our vehicles will leave you satisfied and worry free. 

Our detailed, 117-point inspection and reconditioning process is one of the toughest hurdles in the industry. Before any vehicle attains the title of GM Certified, it must pass all of our rigorous standards.

The GM Certified 117-point inspection is conducted only by GM-trained technicians and adheres to strict, factory-set standards to ensure that every vehicle’s engine, chassis and body is in excellent condition.

And we do check it all — from the engine block, to the shocks, right down to the floor mats, no part is overlooked. If it fails a single point, then we fix it. Or it isn’t Certified.

In order for a vehicle to qualify for a GM Certification, it must posses all of the following:

• 2005 and newer
• Maximum 75,000 miles
• Meets mechanical and appearance standards
• All original equipment present and working as new
• Clean title

 In addition to your current GM warranty, you will have: 

• 12-Month/12,000-Mile bumper-to-Bumper Warranty
• 100,000-Mile/5-Year Powertrain Limited Warranty
• Courtesy Transportation
• Roadside Assistance
• $0 Deductible

We’re proud of-and have confidence in-every GM Certified Used Vehicle.
Which is why all GM Certified Used Vehicles come with a free, detailed Vehicle History Report. So you can be sure the vehicle that you’re purchasing doesn’t have any hidden past problems like major accidents, fires or title issues.

All digitally equipped GM Certified Used vehicles are eligible for three trial months of OnStar Safe & Sound. It’s a chance to experience the broad range of services and enjoy the peace of mind only OnStar can offer. With OnStar, you have a one-button connection to highly trained Advisors who can help in virtually any situation-from automatically sending an alert if you’ve been in a crash, to running monthly diagnostic checks, to offering Turn-by-Turn directions. OnStar has the most comprehensive in-vehicle security, navigation, communication and diagnostics system available. For more information about OnStar in GM Certified Used Vehicles, visit www.onstar.com.

All XM - equipped GM Certified Used vehicles come with three trial months of  “XM Everything.” With XM, you can sing along to your favorite artists, catch up on news, cheer on your favorite team, and laugh at the comedic greats. XM brings to your vehicle radio over 170 channels of audio entertainment with coast-to-coast signal coverage. Hear more of what you love, including commercial-free music, plus more than 5,000 live sports broadcasts and the biggest names in news, talk and entertainment.

Buying a vehicle is a big decision and GM Certified wants to make sure that you are completely satisfied with your purchase. So, if within the first three days or 150 miles (whichever comes first) of owning your GM Certified Used Vehicle you’re not completely satisfied, bring it back to your dealer to exchange for a new GM or GM Certified Used Vehicle that fits your needs.

Visit Yates Buick GMC  to see our selection of GM Certified Used Vehicles.

Information provided by: www.gmcertified.com

Professional Grade. No Compromise.

GMC  is extending its exclusive Denali line to the Sierra Heavy Duty lineup – a first time HD offering of Denali’s unique combination of distinctive style, premium features and capability.

This HD truck has been rebuilt from the ground up:

      *High-strength, fully boxed frame, giving a more rigid and durable platform that allows better suspension tuning and better ride quality by reducing frame bending and twisting.

     *More robust independent front suspension  improving ride and handling with greater isolation and better tire-to-ground contact.

     *larger brakes providing a better brake pedal feel and a shorter pedal travel.

     *Asymmetrical rear leaf spring suspension giving the ability to handle increased loads and provide excellent launch feel and ride characteristics. 

     This incredible Sierra HD comes standard with a 6.0L V8 engine offering 360HP @ 5,400 RPM and 380lb-ft of torque @ 4,200RPM.  A new Duramax “Smart” Diesel and Allison transmission, being the most-powerful diesel in its class, is an option.  This combination offers 397HP @ 3,000RPM and it has been beefed up to handle more torque and provide better efficiency of an amazing; 765lb-ft at only 1,600 RPM.  Not to mention it’s the same brand of transmission used in M1 tanks.  How’s that for battling the toughest jobs.    For the 2011 model year, the Allison 1000 six-speed automatic transmission includes:

     Driver shift control (with tap-up/tap-down shifting)

     Automatic grade braking to slow your Sierra HD on downhill grades while helping to reduce brake wear.

     Power take-off

     Two overdrive gears for efficiency.

The new 2011 GMC Sierra HD was built to handle to more payload and trailer towing weight than any truck in its class.  Being available in 8 vibrant different colors and 17, 18 or 20 inch wheels, in addition to features like the available EZ lift tailgate and the 170 – degree-opening rear access doors can help get any job done.

     Currently, GMC is offering 0% for 60 months on all 2011 GMC Sierras for qualified buyers or phenomenal rebates.  Visit Yates Buick GMC to test drive one today.

 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mCTq4jE4Gsk

The Buick Regal, photo via Flickr user BUICK REGAL 2011

Buick has been made a partner with Time Inc. and Time Warner Global Media Group to sponsor “40 Under 40″, a campaign that promotes the Buick Regal and the integrated concept “Buick Driving Good.”

The Buick Driving Good: 40 Ways in Under 40 Minutes has already launched a Facebook page where fans can discover ways to make a difference in their communities. From becoming a lifesaver to making your own juice, the page has loads of quick ideas to help you too drive good– no matter what kind of vehicle you own.

Not only will fans have the chance to drive good in their neighborhoods with this lengthy list of ideas, but for every ‘like’ they get on Facebook, Buick will donate $1 (up to $40,000) to the national food bank, Feeding America.

100 million consumers are expected to be reached through the internet and print outlets.

"Pick just one graffiti-scarred spot in your neighborhood and clean it up." -Buick Driving Good: 40 Ways in Under 40 Minutes. Photo via Flickr user Buick Driving Good

The Buick Regal is also being advertised on CNNMoney.com, EW.com, Foodandwine.com, Golf.com, Sports Illustrated, and Time.com. If that wasn’t enough, Buick will also be the auto sponsor of a Fortune Magazine event October 19 in New York City where its “40 under 40″ honorees will be recognized.

When was the last time you improved your community in under 40 minutes? What in your routine helps drive good?

Let Yates know all about your efforts in the comments section below.

P.S. If you can’t wait to see what the 2012 Buick Regal looks like, check out the Spy Shots from AutoBlog here.

Last week the turbo-charged 2.0L Ecotec-equipped Buick Regal was put into production at the plant in Russelheim, Germany, meanwhile, back in the States, General Motors Co. is seeing the Regal in popular demand– to the point they are having trouble keeping up!

2011 Buick Regal in high demand, photo via Flickr user BUICK REGAL

The market has been so receptive to the Regal, inventory is mostly bare. Re-branding efforts by Buick have been successful in attracting a variety of buyers.

Dealers are now requesting double the number of cars GM can provide during their monthly reorders.

With a base price at about $27,000 and the fully equipped models reaching over $35,000, the Buick Regal has even been pulling midsize luxury car drivers out of their BMWs and Audis in favor of the Regal.

Buick Regal popular around the world:

The U.S. (through August): 3,878 sold
China (last year): 80,000 sold
Europe (last year): 150,000 sold

If you haven’t considered a Buick during your car shopping, visit us at Yates– our selection and customer service will have you giving Buick a second look.

But before you go to visit our website and plan your visit to our dealership, Yates wants to know: What car have you been noticing on the road everywhere lately? Is there a make or model that everyone seems to be driving? Leave us your answer in the comment box below!