Subcompact Car (B-Segment)

Were the companies to merge, there would be no argument over what would happen in the subcompact segment as Chrysler doesn't have one. Chevy continues to push the Aveo/Pontiac G3 as the only B-segment car sold stateside by a domestic automaker. Dodge does build the Chery-based Breeze for Latin American markets, but not for the US. There's also the Demon possibility, but that remains up in the air. Finally, the Chrysler-Nissan swap included a Nissan-built, possibly Micra-based, compact or subcompact for Chrysler — but that deal's not yet bearing any fruit.

Compact Car (C-Segment)

This is another segment where Chrysler isn't competitive, at least depending on how you classify a car. If you classify the Caliber as a compact crossover, as we do, then Chrysler has nothing and, as far as we can see, nothing on the horizon. What GM does have is the outdated, but not outsold, Chevy Cobalt, Pontiac G5 and the unpopular Saturn Astra. GM's future lineup will also include the Chevy Cruze, the successor to the Astra/Cobalt/G5.

This new vehicle should offer higher quality and mileage than current offerings. It will be a global car and, so far, production has already been mapped out for the new vehicle. The Cruze is a big part of the General's new strategy and a great opportunity for Chrysler to exit this category, stage left.

Mid-Size Car

Chrysler offers two mid-size cars in the form of the Chrysler Sebring and Dodge Avenger, both based on the JS-platform, which was developed with Mitsubishi. Both vehicles are extremely unpopular with the press. Year-to-date Sebring and Avenger sales down 10% and 9%, respectively, seem to indicate the redesign's pretty unpopular with the public as well.

GM has the truly global Epsilon platform to work with. Here in the United States the Chevy Malibu, Pontiac G6 and Saturn Aura are all plopped on top of it. Sales for all of those models are up year-over-year reflecting the popularity of these newer designs. The next-generation mid-size platform, the Epsilon II, will provide the basis for the 2009 Open Insignia, 2010 Buick LaCrosse, the next-generation Chevy Malibu and like every other model under the sun. And from what we've seen, it certainly appears to be designed competitively. Clearly, this is another segment where GM has a distinct advantage.

Full-Size Cars

Chrysler has had a lot of a success with their full-size Charger/300C platform, a rare hit for the automaker. That platform is also the basis for the 2009 Dodge Challenger, a car Chrysler is pinning a hundred thousand car sales or so on. However, the platform's old and a full refresh has been needed for at least a year. That's catching up with the vehicle and sales are reflecting the lack of a re-design. There have been reports that the 300C/Charger will get an upgrade in 2011, but we've also heard about tremendous cuts in the engineering teams, so we're not entirely sure if that's a realistic time frame.

GM, on the other hand, is in the middle of phasing out the W-body barely-fullsize platform underpinning the current LaCrosse and Impala and phasing in the Zeta-based architecture of the Pontiac G8 and Chevy Camaro into possibly the 2011 Buick Lucerne.

Chrysler has built a lot of brand equity with the 300C and Charger and proved Americans would embrace a RWD platform, at least in the days of cheap gas. However, the LX platform is ol' and busted and as we've seen firsthand, Zeta is the new hotness in RWD. GM wins this segment as well. If the Chrysler 300 or Dodge Charger continues to exist, it'll exist on Zeta.

Weird Retro Hatchback

Chrysler created a buzz with the PT Cruiser, a backward-looking retro hatchback for the new millennium. It was an instant hit and, in true Chrysler fashion, they never seriously upgraded it and have now planned for its demise after the 2009 model year. Bob Lutz, who oversaw the PT Cruiser project for Chrysler, moved to GM and, lo-and-behold, they debuted the Chevy HHR — another four-door retro econobox hatchback. Based on the Delta platform, the future of the HHR isn't entirely certain, though there haven't been talks of discontinuing the vehicle and the Delta platform will continue to be used for the near future. This is a trend we'd like to see die and we can't see the General maintaing two retro models which means the already dying PT Cruiser would be put out to pasture.

Compact Crossover

Both automakers have embraced the compact crossover concept with GM offering the Saturn Vue, Chevrolet Equinox and Pontiac Torrent, with the later two offered on the longer wheelbase version of the Theta platform and the Vue on the shorter wheelbase Theta. Chrysler offers the Dodge Caliber, Jeep Patriot and Jeep Compass on a Mitsubishi co-developed platform.

The Theta platform is planned for models into the near future, including a premium version for Saab and Cadillac. There's been little reported discussion of a new platform for the Chrysler models and the dissolution of a longstanding production deal with Mitsubishi means that Chrysler is in a position where it has to develop its own platform or, more likely, partner with someone else. This is yet another area where GM is better positioned.

Mid/Fullsize Crossover

The midsize and fullsize crossover market has been an area of increasing focus by automakers given a perceived consumer preference away from truck-based SUVs towards car-based vehicles with better road manners and fuel economy. Chrysler offers the 2009 Dodge Journey, which falls in the midsize category and is based on the Avenger/Sebring platform. GM offers four Lamda-based crossovers that are better classified as fullsize crossovers.

Though the Journey could continue selling as a smaller vehicle while the GMC Acadia/Chevy Traverse/Buick Enclave/Saturn Outlook for those looking for an alternative to a larger SUV or Minivan, the fact that the Journey relies on the sure-to-be discontinued Sebring/Avenger platform is a hindrance to its survival. Advantage: GM.

Minivan

The minivan is one of the few areas where Chrysler has a clear advantage over GM. Having discontinued the Chevy Uplander, GM has no minivan platform and is instead selling the Lambda-based crossovers in its place. Chrysler's Dodge Caravan/Chrysler Town & Country are popular minivans that have been praised by the press. The van also provides the basis for the Volkswagen Routan. GM could use Chrysler's experience and minivan design technology and, certainly, Chrysler has proven it is willing to share the platform with automakers. And oh yes, since GM would own them, that shouldn't be a problem.

Compact SUV

Chevy only offers one true compact SUV in the form of the Hummer H3, which shares a platform with the Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon midsize truck platform. Though it shares the appearance of the much larger Hummer models while offering less in the way of fuel consumption, the H3 has been a victim of image and high gas prices. Similarly, neither the Dodge Nitro or Jeep Liberty from Chrysler have been able to avoid the fate other SUVs and Chrysler has already committed to cutting one of two in the near future. This is a market best left to crossover vehicles, even if gas prices continue to decrease. Neither platform appears to have much a future.

Midsize SUV

Chrysler has long served the midsize SUV market with the Jeep Grand Cherokee and, more recently, with the slightly larger Jeep Commander. We've already reported that the Commander will die quietly before the end of its first product cycle, unable to find an audience in a stunning act of poor timing. Chevy continues to sell its GMT300-based Chevy TrailBlazer, but that vehicle is more of a stop-gap between the Blazer and new crossovers.

Chrysler has already hinted that the next generation Grand Cherokee will be built at the Jefferson North Assembly plant in Detroit and may be more of a crossover. The Grand Cherokee is a grand name in the SUV market and it is unlikely that a Jeep brand owned by anyone would let it pass into non-being, whatever form it may take.

Full-Size SUV

The General is a leader in producing full-size SUVs, even if it isn't exactly the most popular market anymore. The GMT900-based Chevy Tahoeand GMC Sierra, plus the extended-length Chevy Suburban and GMC Yukon XL have historically been among the best offerings in this small market. This is a good thing for GM as it will not be upgrading the platform as soon as they'd originally planned, meaning these vehicles will be around for a while.

Chrysler reentered the market much later than GM with the Dodge Durango and the Chrysler Aspen. The future of the platform isn't entirely clear given the introduction of a new truck platform for the Dodge Ram.

In a bad economy with high gas prices it doesn't seem like quickly developing a new platform for a fullsize SUV is that smart of a bet. Luckily, both automakers have had discussions in the past about combining both companies large SUV lineups on the GMT-900 platform. Also, given the hybrid system the two companies co-developed can fit in both. It's reasonable to believe all the cars could be built on that platform. Or they could just kill the Dodge/Chrysler SUVs and call it a day.

Real Off-Road SUV

The Jeep Wrangler (and other variations) has been America's crazy, off-road vehicle of choice for generations. Whether invading foreign countries or merely invading the muddy backwoods of America the Jeep has been the vehicle of choice for adventure. The competition for this kind of rugged spirit has been the other vehicle of choice for invading foreign countries... sort of. The Hummer H2 isn't exactly, or in any way, like the Humvee used by the military. Nevertheless, the H2 was a popular vehicle with people who at least wanted to appear rugged.

Slumping sales aside, the H2 is based on the GMT800 platform previously used by GM's large SUVs and therefore would theoretically have to be replaced at some point. There may be some future for the uncertain Hummer brand merged with Jeep, but Hummer doesn't have any platforms that Jeep would want. The Wrangler's on a relatively new platform and, if it's like other Wrangler platforms, should last for another five years at least. Winner here? Chrysler. Or Jeep, rather.

Midsize Trucks

Though GM and Chrysler both make midsize trucks in the form of the GMC Canyon/Chevy Colorado and Dodge Dakota, neither has been competitive in the market recently and neither platform seems to have much future. Either the merged company develops a car/crossover-based truck to capture a different part of the segment or General Mopar just accepts defeat and abandons the segment altogether. Of the three trucks, only the Dakota nameplate seems worth saving. Maybe put it on a rebadged Frontier platform like Suzuki.

Fullsize Trucks

Perhaps the most difficult part of a merger between these two companies would be deciding what to do with all the truck platforms. We've established the GMT-900, which underpins the GMC Sierra/Chevy Silverado, isn't going anywhere anytime soon. On the other hand, the 2009 Dodge Ram is a platform that's been recently developed and will therefore not be shuffling off anytime soon either. Additionally, Chrysler announced it would be building the new Nissan Titan on the Dodge Ram platform.

Where does this leave us? For the short term it doesn't make much sense to abandon either platform and, given production capacity, it doesn't make much sense to quickly merge either truck onto the other platform. It could make sense to use the Ram to continue to bring in the buyers looking for a cheap n' dirty pickup, and try to bring in the high-dollar truck buyers with the GMT-900 twins. Eventually, they'd have to decide on one co-developed platform, but that is years off — by that time, Dodge probably wouldn't so much exist as a brand. However, since it'd be owned by GM, it could exist almost forever. Exhibit A in that story? Buick.

Sports Cars

The sports car market is easy. GM makes the Kappa-based Saturn Sky and Pontiac Solstice and Chrysler makes nothing — at least since they got out of that marriage of unequals with Daimler.

Muscle Cars

This is another tricky area as the Muscle Car Wars have just been reignited and the Dodge Challenger and the 2010 Chevy Camaro are a big part of that ongoing battle. The Camaro may have the advantage due to the fact that it's Zeta-based architecture is going to be around for a while and the car is slightly newer. The Challenger is based on the same LC/LX platform as the Charger and 300C. It probably behooves the automakers to keep this competition going for the near future as it tries to sell both. If the merger does happen the Challenger could potentially be the last remaining LX platform derived car — and exist happily as such — for quite a few years.

Halo Two-Seater Sports Cars

Both the Corvette and Viper serve as halo cars for their respective automakers, spreading excitement and capturing the adoration and imagination of prospective buyers. There are two main differences between the Corvette and Viper. Whereas the Viper is a relatively small production car at a very high price, the Corvette is a mass-produced sports car that comes in many, many flavors. The Corvette is going nowhere anytime soon but the Viper, well, we've heard bad things about its future. Again, win for GM.

Halo Environmental Cars

GM has poured its heart, soul and a lot of its money into the 2011 Chevy Volt, making it as close to a make-or-break vehicle as they've had in recent history. It's GM's next big idea. Chrysler has no big hybrid planned for the future — no matter what they say.

Pie-in-the-sky Electric Cars

Lacking a vehicle like the Volt, Chrysler has instead the Lotus-based Dodge EV electric sports car, the Jeep EV electric Jeep and the Chrysler EV electric minivan. Will these vehicles really happen? Who knows. Unlike the Volt, the EV doesn't appear to be as far along and, as far as we can tell, none of the vehicles have been approved for production.

Conclusion

Sure, there's great opportunity here and given the decimation of Chrysler's engineering ranks, the next few cars out of Chrysler or Dodge could very easily (with a few hundred million dollars) be re-badged GM vehicles. But, as Wert said — the real merger is going to be about showing GM the money. For the merger to work and really become reality, it'll be less about the product lineup than it will be about how much cash Cerberus is willing to drop on the table to go with Chrysler. Because above all, that's what GM needs. Also, a minivan. That would be nice.

[Photo Credit: Harry How/Getty Images]

A V8 engine is rumored to be required for any possible downsizing to happen, and Lambda is said to be able to accomodate such a mill; whether it will be the corporate 5.3-liter unit or something altogether different remains to be seen. Whither Escalade EXT? Apparently it could go to the Zeta platform or get dropped altogether.

Jalopnik Snap Judgment: Those old enough to think "Cimmaron" anytime someone mentions a downsized Cadillac probably shouldn't be too concerned: The current Buick Enclave demonstrates that Lambda is well-suited for luxury duty, and GM's efforts at interior and exterior styling differentiation among its various brands show the company is taking each division's uniqueness seriously. With a V8 featuring Active Fuel Management and some readjustment of the 6-speed tranny's shift points, we'll bet a Lambda-based Escalade would see a significant jump in sales over the current truck version. [Automobile; Photo Credit: Premiumposts.com]

The American SUVs on the market in 1989 were quite a bit different than the generation that would take over in just two years' time. We tend to focus on their crudeness and lack of creature comforts, but more importantly, nearly all "mid-size" SUVs before the 1990s period were two-door models. The exception was the Jeep Cherokee XJ, which was developed with extra doors specifically because Chevy hadn't added them to their Blazer. The other players were either Japanese, like the Isuzu Trooper or, like the Suburban, based on a larger truck platform.

The Jeep Z5 concept will look very familiar to you.

Fortunately for Chrysler, Jeep had developed a more-refined version of the four-door SUV that we know as the Jeep Grand Cherokee all the way back in 1985, when the division was owned by AMC. Unfortunately for Chrysler, when they purchased AMC and Jeep, they put the development of the Grand Cherokee project on hold in favor of new minivans. Still, Jeep had the answer, and in 1989 they released the Jeep Z5 Concept 1, which was basically the final design for the Grand Cherokee that they would bring to market in 1992.

Contrast that with the General. For 1989, GM had two futuristic concept trucks that we assume they hoped would stir enough interest to guide them in their product-making decisions. One was the youth-oriented Pontiac Stinger compact SUV. Though it wasn't particularly powerful — its engine was only good for 170 HP — it had a high level of utility, including features such as a removable picnic table and portable radio. These types of features weren't put to use, as Pontiac wasn't going to build an SUV in the near future. Ironically, many of these ideas found a home — the ill-fated and poorly designed Pontiac Aztec.

The Stinger is certainly better looking than the Aztec, even if it isn't as practical.

The other concept truck was the Chevy XT-2 concept, which stood for the Chevy Experimental Truck #2. This futuristic-looking, performance-oriented vehicle featured a Corvette suspension, a front-engine/RWD layout built on a platform similar to the F-body Camaro, and a 4.5-liter V6 that was good for 360 horsepower and 315 lb-ft of torque. The V6 engine itself, which featured tuned port injection, was an important technological leap forward for GM. The TPI system not only provided more power than a carbureted engine, it was also relatively fuel-efficient. For an excellent discussion of the importance of this engine see this discussion of the XT-2 at PickupTrucks.com.

The XT-2 was designed as a pace car to be used in what was then the CART PPG Indy Car World Series, which is now a weird mix of words to see together. The truck itself went through two designs before engineers landed on the final one. The first version was fairly wild and had the engine mounted under the bed. The second version was a based on a passenger-car platform with a FWD/AWD layout and a smaller V6 engine, a concept not unlike the crossovers that would follow in the mid-2000s. So how did they end up with the final version? According to a press release provided by GM, "Given the consumer preference to small, sporty trucks, the evolution of the Chevrolet PPG XT-2 Pace Truck was natural."

So, in 1989, you had the Pontiac Stinger and the Chevy XT-2 from GM as the radically futuristic vehicles. The designers and planners clearly understood that, after the previous gas crisis, crossovers and sportier car-based trucks were the way forward. But that wasn't what happened.

In 1990, GM came out with four-door versions of their S10-based SUV's and Ford came out with the Ford Explorer. The design wasn't exactly revolutionary — the Explorer and others were the same basic body-on-frame trucks as before with an extra set of doors. The Explorer caught the imagination and dollars of Suburban families by offering car-like amenities such as leather interiors and CD players. Jeep suddenly had to rush their dusty Grand Cherokee to market in 1992 to catch up with the market.

Gas prices remained low, especially relative to the sudden increase in the purchasing power of the average American. In 1991 there were less than a million SUVs sold in the United States. By 1998, Americans were buying nearly three million a year. In 1998, the three best-selling trucks (F-Series, Silverado and Explorer) outsold the Toyota Camry, which was the best-selling car. Unfortunately, in this orgy of truck sales, nothing quite like the XT-2 was ever produced. Why make a car-based SUV or truck when you're suddenly making money hand-over-fist by adding a CD player and an extra set of doors to a body-on-frame platform you've already developed?

Fast-forward almost twenty years, to March 2008. The Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla and Toyota Camry bested the Ford F-150 in monthly sales, and you have your answer. Not long after, GM postponed development of their GMT-900 full-sized truck platform. It then leaked out that GM was considering a more Honda Ridgeline-esque pickup — not unlike the second version of the XT-2 concept that was never produced.

Then the news we were all waiting for: GM announced the Pontiac G8 Sport Truck in 2008. The Pontiac G8 ST will be built on the Zeta platform that underpins the 2010 Chevy Camaro, giving it essentially the same setup as the Chevy XT-2.

The General could have created car-based CUVs and sporty trucks; obviously, they thought the idea had some merit in 1989. But development and focus instead shifted to the cheaper and easier body-on-frame alternative with two extra doors. Almost 20 years later, with another energy crisis underway, it's fascinating to see how two versions of the same forgotten concepts from the late 1980s are now looking like the new way forward for an automaker desperately trying to grapple with age-old problems.

[Photos and press releases courtesy of General Motors. Special thanks to GM for providing the information, Mike Levine of PickupTrucks.com for tracking much of it down and to SmalleyXb122 for starting this whole search with his comment in the Five Ugliest Concept Trucks post.]

The Pontiac G8 ST proves Peter's maxim about originality.

Motor Trend's Motor City Blogman, Todd Lassa, is reporting the news of the RWD Buick Lucerne's demise may have been greatly exaggerated. Along with a lot of background info, Lassa says the Buick will be staying rear wheel drive, but moving off the 118.5-inch extended wheelbase Zeta platform and onto the smaller "midsize" 114.8-inch wheelbase Zeta — the same as the Pontiac G8. So it'll stay rear-wheel driven, but shrinking a bit in the process.

Enthusiasts will hate the idea of a rear-wheel powered Buick, sure. Want to know what they'll hate even more? The Blogman's also reporting GM's plans for a rear-wheel drive 2011 Chevy Impala is still dead in the water. The world is a crazy mixed up place sometimes, ain't it? [Motor Trend]

Those crisp lines are actually wrapped around the same basic car as the Suzuki Forenza. Yes, it is essentially the same subcompact that serves duty as Top Gear's "Reasonably Priced Car" in the form of a Daewoo Chevy Lacetti. There's no word on the technical specs yet, as the Excelle will be officially unveiled at the Beijing Auto Show later this month. Just don't expect anything bigger than a 1.8-liter inline-four. Does that make this a badge-engineered abomination, or do you like the little bugger? It's certainly better than a late-model Century.
[CarScoop]

Pontiac thoughtfully provided us with both the base V6 — a perfectly capable 3.6-liter number making 256 HP — and the alternately growlin' and purrin' V8, which is of course why we're all here. She's a 6.0-liter, 361 HP honey of an engine that Pontiac says will propel the G8 GT to 60mph in 5.3 seconds. All this sitting on top of GM's Zeta platform, otherwise referred to as the Holden Commodore in Australia, where the car was engineered, built and put on the big boat. But most of you already knew this. Most of you also already know that this new arrowheaded sedan represents the first in a coming wave of rear-wheel-drive hotness coming from the General's Aussie branch — with the Camaro next up to bat.

First, let's just strike any more talk about the V6, because really that's not why we're here. We all know the horsepower and hoonage potential of the big V8 is the real reason anyone should be looking at this car. The big 6.0-liter can do the 60 in 5.3, as a brief stretch of Interstate 8 just south of Cuyamaca Rancho State Park allowed us to assess the hoonage quotient, and yes, it is high. It's more than enough to appeal to the youthful redneck contingent that has done time with the screamin' eagle and other Pontiac-badged play-things of the past. Aggressive throttling can set the back end free. Acceleration compresses the abdomen. However, the Aussies, they are a strange people. On the one hand, grilled-flesh-loving criminal stock with an affection for the rugged outdoors and strong beer; on the other, the constructors of the Sydney Opera House, the creators of Penfolds Grange (a fine red wine that rivals collectible California Cabernet and French first growth Bordeaux), and guardians of a culture that gave us the magnificent art critic Robert Hughes.

What I'm saying is: The G8 GT is not some yee-haw backwoods ripper. It's meant to offer far superior value to a BMW 5-series sedan. The car sounds very muscular on the straightaway, but it's refined muscle. Cruising on the freeway, at typical SoCal velocities of approximately 80-90 mph, is comfortable. And there's torque all over the goddamn place, a plaything for your passing pleasure.

Handling? Well, this is where we have our first teensy objection, but truly, not much of one. On meandering, single-lane curves — scenic country road stuff — the G8 GT is simply a pleasure. Point and shoot, with no discernible slosh and plenty of precision in the steering. However, when things get all tight and hairpin-ish, especially headed downhill, we started to feel the nearly 4,000 lb. the car is packing. By and large, the GT doesn't drive as big as it actually is. And it is large — the back seat has ample room for any number of Kama Sutra positions and the front is roomy without making your rear end feel as if you might slip as sideways as you're sliding the G8 GT's rear end. Unless you're fighting gravity and narrow, swerving asphalt. A better driver than this tester would probably be able to manage, but it came across as an Achilles heel. But big whoop. Such circumstances were few and far between on our little adventure through the SoCal wilderness.

But let's talk design for a moment as it's admirably restrained while still hinting at the power within. We studied two color schemes, each telling their own tale:

Red = Screamin'
Black = Well...umm...jeez...sorta elegant. Sorta.

The horrifically beak-like Pontiac front fascia nonsense of previous models is gone — hopefully for good. In its place, a more discreet and tasteful look. Not really a head-turner, but sharp and far more restrained than the Charger. But there are a few issues. I'm not nuts about how far-forward the hood scoops are pushed — it makes the front end seem stubby and I truly dislike the itty-bitty rear taillights. And don't even get me started on the funny-looking trunk lid (though it does hide one big-ass American trunk). Overall, the shape is solid, wide and provocatively sleek — yet another example of the complete Audi-fication of the performance-sedan design field. The 18-inch aluminum wheels are pretty. Ideal customer might be an air-traffic controller from Huntington Beach with a girlfriend who likes shoes, the Angels, and premium vodka.

Not much to say about the interior. Graphite tones. Brushed metal. Leather. Pretty easy to negotiate the instruments. Tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel. The Blaupunkt booms. There's a weird orange-red digital voltmeter and oil-pressure display atop the center console that on reflection we now like (it can't be turned off, FYI). OnStar with Turn-By-Turn nav more than makes up for no in-dash nav system and allows you to spend your energies focused on the road. The case for the owner's manual is a piece of floppy nylon shit.

Soooo, what more could we want? Six-speed manual, obviously although Pontiac claims they may offer one if they do a performance version. There's also the matter of the immense A and B pillars, something that we and our driving partner, the esteemed Jill Ciminillo of the Chicago Sun-Times, noticed as troublemakers during tight driving. Oh yeah, how about a sun-roof? Nice big one, please. Or T-tops. It is a Pontiac, after all, structural rigidity be damed.

Verdict? G'day, GT!

We're told the form factor will be an entirely unibody design — not just the weird-ass unibody front end with a half-chassis welded on to the back like the Crewman. A true car-based pickup truck. The mere thought's causing our pants to start to tighten. We mean, is this GMC an xtremely interesting development or what? Come on, is this seriously the new GMC — Caballero? We can only hope. But one thing's for sure, we'll have more info later on as the story develops.

Alpha: A future GM midsized RWD platform for Pontiac, Cadillac and Buick.

Alpha Chi Omega: The cute, smart sorority girls who made you rethink your policy of not dating sorority girls.

Alpha Phi: The reason why you stopped dating sorority girls.

Delta: The small FWD platform underpinning the Chevy HHR and Pontiac G5, among others.

Delta Delta Delta: Cute but ditzy girls that were parodied very well on SNL. Notable alums include Katie Couric.

Epsilon Midsized FWD platform that in extended form is the basis for the new Chevy Malibu and Saturn Aura

Sigma Epsilon: If these rowdy frat boys haven't been kicked off of your local college campus it's not for lack of trying.

Gamma: Subcompact FWD platform used mostly in Europe for models like the Opel Corsa.

Gamma Theta Upsilon: GTU is the Geography honors society. Members of the GTU generally don't have a good chance of scoring with Tri-Delts. I am a GTU member.

Kappa: Compact RWD architecture found under the Pontiac Solstice/Opel GT and Gary Coleman's Saturn Sky.

Kappa Kappa Gamma: The elite of the elite private school girls who, when they get rush lists, actually send people out to see if your house is big enough to warrant admission into their ranks.

Lambda: The mid-sized FWD/AWD crossover SUV platform that will support the new Chevy Traverse as well as the current Buick Enclave, Saturn Outlook and GMC Acadia.

Lambda Chi Alpha: Exceptionally non-threatening. The guys you call when your drunk boyfriend from a different frat leaves you on the side of the road.

Theta: Midsized crossover SUV platform used for the Saturn VUE and Pontiac Torrent.

Mu Alpha Theta: That's the high school math club. What the hell are you doing at a college party? Oh, Rick's your brother. Cool. Want another Corona?

Zeta: The RWD platform that will support the next generation Impala and Chevy Camaro, as well as the new Pontiac G8 and any possible US-bound -aminos.

Zeta Beta Tau: Good Jewish boys who all dream of growing up to be a part of the media elite that runs the automotive web.

As expected, the new El Camino would likely be a Pontiac, which Lutz hints at by saying "Pontiac would be focused on sporty, high-performance passenger type of vehicles, and that's where the ute fits, that's where the G8 fits, and that's where the Pontiac Solstice fits - and that's how we want to focus that channel." It's like music to our ears. Go on over to Go Auto to see all the details on how this could be the new El Camino. [GoAuto via Winding Road]

"We looked at that, but the amount of change to meet US regulations was going to be quite a lot of money...and the sad truth is, as much as some of us like 'sportwagons', they just don't sell in the US.

"How often do you see an Audi wagon? How often do you see a BMW wagon? How often do you see a Mercedes wagon? The answer is, almost never...they're just not fashionable. I can't explain why."

Rick, you've got the G8 coming and hitting shores now, Camaro coming next year — what other options are being discussed for the Commodore — excuse me — Zeta platform?

I can think of at least two other potential products that have been and remain on the table. One has a reasonably high likelihood, and one maybe not as high likelihood...due to fuel economy concerns.

Not at this time. I think the general discussion going forward...as we look at these products will be challenging ourselves whether we need an eight in these products going forward. Hey, when you develop products...we've got to hold ourselves to a higher standard on these. I saw some early data...not sure if it was just a region of the country...but it definitely skewed towards the four's. That's a big change from the old generation.

That's not to say the Camaro...for younger buyers maybe a six or a turbo-charged six may hold a higher cache...

Press Release: Holden's New Sportwagon Puts Excitement Back Into Practicality

Sleek new sporty look for popular wagon

GM Holden's sleek new VE Commodore Sportwagon made its world debut today at the Australian International Motor Show in Sydney.

The new family vehicle takes VE Commodore's award-winning sporty design and engineering advances and integrates them into a stylish and practical wagon.

The result is a desirable and functional addition to the VE range, offering a new level of comfort, safety and styling in a Holden wagon.

GM Holden Chairman and Managing Director Chris Gubbey said, "The new VE Commodore Sportwagon puts the excitement back into practicality. This is a car for families with a 'get-up-and-go' attitude.

"The generous interior space, combined with sleeker, sportier styling, makes this a wagon that people will want to own as a year-round family car, or for family and business use.

"Holden's new VE Sportwagon turns practi-'cal' into practi-'cool'," said Gubbey.

The VE Commodore Sportwagon unveiled in Sydney today is a production-based concept vehicle. It is the first glimpse of the planned production model scheduled to hit Holden showrooms in the first half of 2008.

The vehicle draws on VE sedan at the front with a sleek and sporty silhouette at the back and is built on the same VE wheelbase. It is the third VE derivative after sedan and the newly released ute range.

Features

At the rear, Holden's designers have cleverly created a wider opening by positioning the tailgate hinge well forward into the roof line. This has created a more vertical opening movement for the tailgate and reduces opening space required around the car.

The higher cargo floor makes loading easier and a flexible cargo cover provides extra security for items stored in the back.

VE Sportwagon seats five adults in comfort and a 60:40 split in the rear seating row can be folded flat for storing larger items.

The motor show display model includes a roof mounted DVD player, Bluetooth capability, multi-function driver information display system and zone-based front and rear park assist systems - all currently standard on the VE Calais V-Series sedan. Features on the vehicle unique to the motor show include 20-inch alloy wheels, chrome window trim and unique interior colour combination.

VE Commodore Sportwagon's pricing, model line-up and powertrain combinations will be confirmed closer to the on-sale date, but expect to see a similar type of strategy to VE sedan, with entry level cars, sports models and luxury models ranging up to the luxurious VE Calais V-Series.

Leading safety technology features such as ESP® will be standard across the range.

Holden's Executive Director Sales, Marketing and Aftersales, Alan Batey, said, "Sportwagon breaks the mould for Holden wagons. It's got great style, performance and practicality for families, businesses or both.

"Customers will get a car that's equally at home as a working tool or a desirable family car - with all the storage advantages that come with a wagon.

"We've added important safety features such as ESP® as standard, and more luxury versions will be incorporated into the range to further increase its appeal to families.

"This is a vehicle that people will desire for its looks as well as its convenience over a sedan or an SUV," he said.

Technology

The concept model on display at the Australian International Motor Show also incorporates a V8 engine featuring Active Fuel Management (AFM) and E85 flex fuel capability. Active Fuel Management allows cylinders to turn off under light load conditions to improve fuel economy.

The engine on show runs the same spark ignition, with fuelling matched to the same equivalence ratio as Holden's current production V8 engine. It is designed to match the power and torque outputs of its petrol equivalent. The use of AFM and E85 technologies in this motor show vehicle aims to highlight General Motors' capabilities in new propulsion advances.

Chris Gubbey explains, "Showcasing an E85 fuel system in this vehicle makes a powerful statement about Holden and GM's commitment to developing alternative energy sources that reduce our dependence on petroleum-based products.

"It also demonstrates that drivers of alternative fuel vehicles don't have to sacrifice performance.

"Our sister brand Saab has led the way in promoting bio fuel technology to advance the public, political and commercial debate in this area. We want to add our voice to that debate whilst simultaneously looking at ways to further reduce fuel consumption in our existing engines."

The current VE sedan range of vehicles on sale in Australia are all E10 compatible with Holden's V6 engine built in Melbourne also converted to E24 in Commodores exported to Brazil.

In 2007 Holden added two new diesel engines to its product line up with the new 3.0 litre VCDi common rail turbo diesel for the Rodeo and Captiva's 2.0 litre common rail turbo diesel. This adds to the diesel options already offered in the Astra range.

Press Release:

VXR8 media information

Introduction

There was every reason to mourn the passing of the Monaro, but the Thunder from Down Under hasn't stopped yet...

What better to replace the 6.0-litre V8, rear-drive Aussie performance icon with than an all-new Antipodean muscle car. A car, in fact, just like the VXR8 - a car even more powerful and exciting than the Monaro.

The dramatic-looking new saloon is powered by the same 6.0-litre V8 as the outgoing Monaro VXR, but revisions have made it even more efficient. It now develops a massive 417PS and 550Nm of torque, giving it enough grunt to sprint from 0-60mph in just 4.9 seconds. No other supercar offers this sort of power for anywhere near the VXR8's bargain price of just £35,105.

Yet the VXR8, based on the Australian Holden VE HSV Clubsport R8, offers more in the way of practicality than the Monaro, with four doors and space for all the family.

Although practical, with a spacious boot, comfortable, long-legged cruising ability and luxuries such as climate control and leather trim, the VXR8 is certainly no softie. Driver aids such as the stability system and traction control can be turned off at the flick of a switch - perfect for drivers who want to hone their skills on a track day!

In response to customer demand, the VXR8 will also be the first VXR model to be offered with an automatic gearbox, but that doesn't mean that VXR shifted to being dull. Performance figures are hardly affected, and the auto's fuel economy is actually better than the manual's.

Satellite navigation and 20-inch wheels are among the options for those who want to make their VXR8 look more distinctive and help find their way to the best driving roads. Even with all the option boxes ticked however, the VXR8 is still around half the price of other cars with comparable performance. As all fast car fans know, Aussie rules - and here's why...

When was the last time you saw an Australian bloke drinking a half of lager? Never? That's because the Aussies don't do things by halves, and if you need proof, look no further than the VXR8. Beefy, muscular and well-toned, the feisty four-door wouldn't look out of place flexing its muscles among the beach crowd. Based on the elegant yet unassuming looks of the latest VE-Series Holden Commodore, VXR8 takes the clean lines of a well-proportioned saloon car and gives them a supercar touch. Neat styling features include a butch-looking front spoiler with extra mesh air intake, along with piercing round driving and foglamps set in unique, trapezoidal pods. Supercar-style cooling fins adorn the car's
flanks, while the wheelarches are flared outwards to give the appearance of stability and provide room for the huge tyres - 245/40 19s at the front, or 275/35 19s at the rear. If 19s are too weedy, 20-inch alloys developed by Walkinshaw Performance are available as an option at £2,500, along with a Walkinshaw developed exhaust system, which sounds even more brutal than the standard set-up and costs £950. At the rear, VXR8 comes with a twin-post rear wing, quadruple exhaust outlet pipes and unique 'afterburner' rear lights, which include the latest LED technology to not only look stealthily cool, but also offer greater safety by being faster to reach full brightness than standard bulbs.

As we learned yesterday, the Zeta-platformed rear-wheeled Aussie-built G8 is starting up pre-production down in Australia. It's been a while since we've been able to say we're excited about a car coming from the flint-headed brand from the General. We've been disappointed in the brand since they killed the Firebird and brought back the GTO — a sports car with potential for excitement, but so style-neutered as to defy all logic. Which leads us to wonder — is the building excitement around Pontiac going to lead us to a 1987-like climax or to a 2004-like disappointment?

Related:
First Pontiac G8 Rolls Off Holden Assembly Line; GM's Wagoner: Rear-Drive Cars Still on Track; Random Appearance Of A Red G8 In Wisconsin; Did GM's Bob Lutz Mention The "Great Style" Of The Pontiac G8? [internal]

Happy times for American hoons. Number minus-one from a first-year batch of 30,000 Pontiac G8s just crawled out of its shell. That is, the first Pontiac G8 — an engineering prototype not among the first production models — rolled off a Holden assembly line in the South Australian town of Elizabeth. Essentially, the G8 is a re-skinned Holden Commodore VE, which has collected reviews in several shades of awesome. To recap: A few months back, the General, spooked by the prospect of rising CAFE standards, said it had "pressed the pause button" on its rear-wheel-drive plans. Then, whoops, it pressed play again. Back on track, the G8 is the first American domestic market vehicle built off GM's RWD platform known as Zeta. (The Camaro will likely be #2.) A nearly 400 horsepower (391 hp) 6.0-liter V8, along with and six-speed manual, will be standard fare on the GT model. Good on you, GM. – Jonny Lieberman

Holden holds on to U.S. [Adelaide Now]

Related:
Chicago Auto Show: Pontiac G8 GT Show Car; Random Appearance Of A Red G8 In Wisconsin; GM's Wagoner: Rear-Drive Cars Still on Track [Internal]

Will dealerships resemble flaming aviaries or well-gnawed gardens when Pontiac gets its own version of the Zeta-platform coupe? It sounds like the GM division's leaning toward another iteration of the GTO moniker, according to Car and Driver. While the last model, despite its obvious horsepower and handling charms, failed to deliver the magic spark of essential GTO-ness, Pontiac seems to see it as a vehicle that wouldn't simply be a badge-engineered version of the Camaro. As it stands now, GM seems to think there's only room for one Zeta-derived coupe under the Pontiac banner, so if we do get a GTO, don't stick your head under water while waiting for a Firebird. You'll likely end up with prune-head. And you can't make your donuts with prune-head. – Davey G. Johnson

2010 Pontiac Firebird or GTO? [Car and Driver]

Related:
Never Mind The Horsepower: Special Edition Esprit Firebirds [Internal]

"...could dust off the unused 427 moniker, or maybe the GTS-R badges from the 2004 concept race car. Our bet is for a combination of the two and the car to wear GTS-R 427 badging..."

HSV's King Hit! The LS7 Commodore Is Coming!!! [GMInsideNews via Supercars.net via Wheels]

Related:
Spy Video: 2008 Cadillac CTS-V; GM's Wagoner: Rear-Drive Cars Still on Track; Special Edition Commodore SVZ Ute And Wagon [internal]

Hey kids, it's time to start those drifting lessons. A report from the Line that is anything but external says new rear-drive midsize cars from GM are on the way. General Motors will launch a range of such cars based on its new Alfa platform in late 2010, including the next Pontiac G6, Cadillac BLS and a Saturn to be named later. Alpha uses parts from the Kappa platform that hosts the Pontiac Solstice et al., with a dash of the larger Zeta platform (Pontiac G8) thrown in. Inside Line also reports the new, rear-drive Cadillac BLS may be sold in the US, with a base price in the "high $20,000s." (2003 G6 concept pictured.) – Mike Spinelli

IL Exclusive: GM's Project Alpha Takes Shape [Edmunds Inside Line]

Related:
Frankenstein Continues To Go Greek: GM's New RWD Platform To Be Named Alpha, Get Pieces Of Kappa And Zeta [internal]

If you've been wearing out the old cardigan waiting for a new convertible based on the 2004 Buick Velite concept, you'll want to hold on 'till decade's end. That's when Buick will likely get its rear-drive droptop, says one GM prez, reports Car and Driver. Underpinning the Velite is GM's Zeta rear-drive architecture, which now supports the Holden VE Commodore and will provide the bedrock for the coming Pontiac G8 and new Camaro. The Lutz-y Velite was equipped with a twin-turbo, intercooled 3.6-liter V6 producing 400 horsepower and 400 lb-ft of torque. No word on what such a car would have under the hood, but we're not holding our collective breaths for a multiturbine version. – Mike Spinelli

Velite Coming for Buick [Car and Driver]

Related:
Buick Velite Concept: Coming to a Sun-Dappled Stretch of Road Near You? [internal]

Hands On: Pontiac G8, Buick Enclave [Kicking Tires]

Related:
Did GM's Bob Lutz Mention The "Great Style" Of The Pontiac G8? [internal]

The gossiping nellies of the car world (i.e., ours truly) have already speculated on a new ute (i.e., El Camino) based on the Holden VE Commodore (i.e., Pontiac G8) coming to the US on the back of GM's spate of rear-drive models. Oh right. Said spate, chairman Lutz said last week, has been kiboshed by pending higher fleet-mileage standards by the EPA. That means we're probably not getting the VE-based ute — above, wearing the gingham tablecloth — caught by a spy shooter down under. Hold out hope for that Ford Ranchero. – Mike Spinelli

Holden VE Ute Spyshot [Caradvice (AU)]

Related:
Holy Smokey Burnout! GM To Suspend RWD Plans, Wait For Washington To Remove Thumb; Over the Back Fence: More on the New El Camino [internal]

Comprehension of cuneiform lettering is above our pay grade, so all we know about this Buick concept destined for the Shanghai auto show is its name in English. That is, the Riviera, a gullwing'd prototype sports coupe that could redefine the public perception of Buick around the world. It may also confuse the hell out of Chinese buyers, who sweat Buick for its country-club-circa-1965 interpretation of luxury. The Rivera shares its name with the erstwhile Buick Riviera coupe of previous decades, and is the product of GM-Shanghai Auto's joint-venture Pan Asia Technical Center in Shanghai. We'll get a better impression on April 22 when the Riviera concept premieres at the Shanghai show. [Thanks to Dave for the tip.] – Mike Spinelli

[via CNR Auto]

Related:
China's Zeta Cake: Buick Park Avenue [internal]

"Every day that goes by, I become more and more embarrassed by GM's car offerings in the United States...I don't believe GM has the desire to sell something like this in the US. They couldn't do it with STS. They Certainly won't do it with Buick."

"Even if they wanted to bring that over here now they would say it is still 8 years away.. But its coming. Meanwhile we twirl in the wind as usual. GM you have got to give us product like this and faster!"

"Hey! I wonder if Rick and Bob have seen this car? The offerings here in the US sure don't indicate that!!!!!!!!!!"

[Hat tip to Ming!] – Ray Wert

Shanghai Motorshow: Buick Park Avenue Debuts (Updated w/ GM Press Release) [GMInsideNews.com]

Related:
China's Zeta Cake: Buick Park Avenue [internal]

Just as GM put the breaks on its coming wave of rear-drive models born of its Holden division in Australia, Buick China is launching its latest feast for the east at the Shanghai auto show. It's the Park Avenue, a new model derived — like the Pontiac G8 — on the Holden-developed Zeta platform. In content, the Park Avenue is a China-built version of the Holden Statesman, powered by Aussie 2.8-liter and 3.6-liter V6 engines, exported from Fishermans Bend, Victoria. (Not to be confused with Fisherman's Friend, Maine.) Buick's success in China is another testament to the widening belief that the Chinese and US car markets are similar to the point of interchangeable. That is, we both like big, rear-drive cars and both like Chinese food. – Mike Spinelli

Press Release:

hanghai General Motors (Shanghai GM) has introduced the newest member of its Buick lineup, the Park Avenue luxury sedan.

Like the affluent New York City boulevard of the same name, Buick's Park Avenue is trendy and luxurious. With its range of advanced technologies and high-grade amenities, not to mention a stylish design that conveys a sense of power and passion, it is representative of traditional American luxury sedans.

"The Park Avenue is the perfect blend of tranquility and power," said Shanghai GM President Ding Lei. "It shows Buick's ability to move with the times while continuing to leverage GM's global resources and our local knowledge. Designed especially for business leaders and other elites, it is a component of our effort to maintain our leadership position in China by addressing the needs of all of our customers."

The Park Avenue is based on GM's new global rear-wheel-drive architecture to ensure a premium driving experience. At 5,175 mm in length, 1,899 mm in width and 1,480 mm in height, and with an impressive 3,009-mm wheelbase, the Park Avenue also offers a highly spacious ride.

The Park Avenue 's genuine leather seats are designed to accommodate people of varying sizes with 8-way power adjustment for the front seats. All seats incorporate a massage function. A high-quality entertainment system with LCD panels and an advanced heating, ventilation and air conditioning system offer the relaxation and comfort that one would expect of a luxury sedan. The Park Avenue 's GPS navigation system contains road information for more than 300 cities in China . The Bluetooth mobile phone system is also available.

Like all Buick products, the Park Avenue offers a high level of safety and peace of mind. It is equipped with the GM Local Area Network (GM-LAN) high-speed communication system, which is based on the top-of-the-line 32-bit 500 kb/second engine control system. W ith a signal transmission speed approaching real-time, information flow from various sensors is instantaneous, enhancing efficiency and safety. Further enhancing safety are six intelligent air bags for the driver and passengers.

The Park Avenue is powered by GM's smooth yet powerful AlloyTec V-6 engine, which accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 7.8 seconds. The engine control unit features the latest Bosch E77 32-bit ECM processor. With the Remote Engine Start (RES) function, the driver can start the engine up to 20 minutes in advance within 60 meters distance. The RES function also can adjust the temperature inside the car.

Customers have a choice of two engine displacements. The Park Avenue 's 3.6-liter engine generates maximum output of 187kW (250 hp) @ 6,500 rpm and maximum torque of 340 Nm @ 3,200 rpm. Its 2.8-liter engine offers maximum output of 150 kW (201 hp) @ 6,000 rpm and maximum torque of 265 Nm @ 3,000 rpm.

Shanghai GM is offering five Park Avenue variants: the 3.6-liter Flagship, which is priced at RMB 498,800; the 3.6-liter Elite, which is priced at RMB 388,800; the 2.8-liter Luxury, which is priced at RMB 458,800; the 2.8-liter Elite, which is priced at RMB 368,800; and the 2.8-liter Comfort, which is priced at RMB 328,800.

Related:
Shanghai Auto Show Preview: GM Goes To China, Brings Chevy And Buick Concepts With Them; Broken: Buick Just Sold More Cars in China than in the United States of America [internal]