Whats New for Chevrolet
2009 Chevrolet Traverse
The Traverse is an all-new crossover SUV for Chevrolet similar to its siblings, the Buick Enclave, GMC Acadia, and Saturn Outlook. The Traverse differs from these models in that it is some 4 inches longer. Power is provided by a 3.6L V6 with direct injection. Both FWD and AWD models include a standard six-speed automatic transmission.
2009 Chevrolet Aveo Aveo5
The Aveo5 has been re-worked to match the changes made to the sedan last year. The 2009 model wears new styling on the outside and inside. A 1.6L four-cylinder now provides 106-bhp and 106 lb-ft. of torque.
2009 Chevrolet Cobalt Coupe
The 2.4L four-cylinder has been dropped leaving the 2.2L four cylinder as the standard engine on LS and LT models. The 2.2L has been reworked for slightly higher horsepower and fuel economy.
2009 Chevrolet Cobalt Sedan
A SS model sedan joins the lineup for 2009. The SS models feature a turbocharged 2.0L four cylinder rated at 260-bhp and 260 lb-ft. of torque. A five speed manual is the only available transmission on SS models. SS models also include upgraded standard disc brakes and larger 225/40R18 summer performance tires. The 2.4L four-cylinder has been dropped leaving the 2.2L four cylinder as the standard engine on LS and LT models. The 2.2L has been reworked for slightly higher horsepower and fuel economy.
2009 Chevrolet Corvette
A ZR1 model rejoins the lineup offering performance above that of the exclusive Z06. The ZR1 is powered by a 620hp supercharged 6.2L V8. A six-speed manual transmission is standard. Larger brakes and Michelin Pilot Sport 2 tires (P285/30ZR19 in front and P335/25ZR20 in the rear) are unique to the ZR1. Carbon fiber is used extensively in the hood, roof and rocker panels. The ZR1 differs visually from other Corvettes with a distinct hood, side ducts, rocker panels, spoiler, and wheels. A new instrument cluster features a boost gauge.
2009 Chevrolet Corvette Convertible
A new 1LT convertible model has been added with a lower MSRP. A power operated top is now standard on 2LT models.
2009 Chevrolet HHR
Horsepower has increased in the base engine from 149-bhp to 155-bhp. Fuel economy is also improved. Both 2.2L and 2.4L four-cylinder engines can now run on E85. A new SS performance package features Brembo brakes and a limited-slip differential.
2009 Chevrolet HHR Panel
The HHR Panel now offers a SS model like its wagon counterpart. The SS model features a 2.0L turbocharged engine rated at 260-bhp and 260 lb-ft of torque (manual transmission.) Horsepower has increased in the base engine from 149-bhp to 155-bhp. Fuel economy is also improved. Both 2.2L and 2.4L four-cylinder engines can now run on E85.
2009 Chevrolet Suburban
A six speed automatic becomes standard equipment on all models. LTZ models add heated and cooled seats and new trim pieces for visual differentiation. OnStar 8.0 and Bluetooth are also new.
2009 Chevrolet Tahoe
A six speed automatic becomes standard equipment on the 5.3L and 6.0L models. LTZ models add heated and cooled seats and new trim pieces for visual differentiation. OnStar 8.0 and Bluetooth are also new. A new 5.3L XFE model aims to improve the fuel efficiency. The XFE model features a lowered suspension to improve aerodynamics, while aluminum lower control arms and wheels reduce mass. Low rolling resistance tires are also equipped. As a result, fuel efficiency increases by 1 MPG.
2009 Chevrolet Trailblazer
The 5.3L V8 engine has been dropped as the Trailblazer is slowly phased out.
Chevrolet has long been one of the top-selling American brands and is the core brand for General Motors in North America. Chevrolet offers a comprehensive lineup of cars and trucks, a feat matched only by the Ford brand, and to a lesser extent, Toyota and Nissan.
As GM has struggled to redefine other brands like Saturn, Pontiac, and Buick, Chevrolet has often taken a back seat when it comes to launching new products, but it has often paid dividends with more refined versions of otherwise identical models from its sister brands. The latest example of this is the Chevrolet Traverse. Although the Buick Enclave, Saturn Outlook, and GMC Acadia have been on the market since last year, the Chevrolet version has had to wait on the sidelines. The Traverse features unique styling reminiscent of the Buick Enclave, but is mechanically very similar to its siblings.
The big news for Chevrolet this year is the release of the long-rumored Corvette ZR1. The ultimate Corvette sets itself apart from the already quick Corvette, and quicker Corvette Z06, with a 620-bhp supercharged V8. Extensive use of carbon fiber in the body reduces body weight and adds exclusive flair to this $100K+ Corvette.
The Cobalt sedan and HHR panel wagon get new SS models this year. A 260-bhp turbocharged four-cylinder powers the SS models. The package also includes aggressive wheels, tires and bodywork.
GM has responded to changing market conditions by offering a number of models with improved fuel economy. XFE badged versions of the Cobalt, Silverado, and Tahoe all offer improved fuel economy over previous versions.
Introduced last year on the Tahoe, General Motor's two-mode hybrid system finds its way in to the Silverado Crew Cab for 2009. The elaborate transmission and battery pack boost the fuel economy of the Silverado, but allow the Silverado to retain the truck characteristics that buyers are looking for.
Next up for Chevrolet is the return of its pony car, the Camaro.
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