<![CDATA[Jalopnik: yukon]]> http://tags.jalopnik.com/assets/base/img/thumbs140x140/jalopnik.com.png <![CDATA[Jalopnik: yukon]]> http://jalopnik.com/tag/yukon http://jalopnik.com/tag/yukon <![CDATA[GMC Yukon Hybrids Carry Thanksgiving Day Floats In Rick-Rolled Macy's Parade]]> newVideoPlayer("/rickrollthanks.flv", 500, 390,""); While we're not sure if the Foster's Home For Imaginary Friends float from yesterday's Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade was one of the five floats being hauled by a GMC Yukon Hybrid, but we kind of hope it was. If only so that we could know an automaker was somehow involved in bringing us this first ever road-going rick-roll. But oh, that Rick Astley. That guy and his internets...what a bunch of pranksters! [Gizmodo, Star-Telegram]]]> http://jalopnik.com/index.php?op=postcommentfeed&postId=5099753&view=rss&microfeed=true <![CDATA[Chevy, GMC Reveal XFE Versions Of Silverado, Sierra, Tahoe And Yukon For 2009]]> GM's just revealed a whole messload of details on their newest members of the GMT-900-based full-size SUV and truck lineup — the 2009 Chevy Silverado XFE, 2009 Chevy Tahoe XFE, 2009 GMC Sierra XFE and lastly, the 2009 GMC Yukon XFE. What's XFE? It stands for Xtra Fuel Economy and the four relative fuel-sippers join the already class-leading Chevy Cobalt XFE as vehicles GMs achieved added wallet-padding using a combination of mechanical, aerodynamic and mass-reducing enhancements. The tweaks help to deliver a 5% increase in EPA-estimated highway fuel economy and more than 7% improved mileage in city driving. They achieve 15 city and 21 highway mileage ratings versus comparable non-XFE models' 14/20 ratings. The XFE designation is only available on 2WD vehicles equipped with the 5.3-liter V8 mated to a six-speed transmission. But we're told they're able to accomplish the fuel economy bump without a knock to towing ratings. The Tahoe and Yukon are unchanged, while the Silverado and Sierra increase from 6,600 pounds to 7,000 pounds due to the new, six-speed transmission and high-capacity cooling package. Still with us? Good. Hit the jump for our take.

Jalopnik Snap Judgment: This is a smart move by Chevy and GMC. If you give consumers some choice on fuel economy, more than likely they'll take it. Especially if it's at a low cost. That was the biggest problem we've got with the hybrid versions of GM's big SUVs — the added front end dollar figure destroys any possibility for recouping your monetary investment without driving the vehicle for tens of thousands of miles. But anyway, we're glad to see the General making any steps toward fuel economy gains at efficient prices — especially when mixed with the Tahoe's good looks — and without the garish stickering of the hybrid. Full press release below.

GM Full-Size Pickups And SUVs Deliver Better Fuel Economy And Same Great Capabilities With New 'XFE' Models

EPA-rated fuel economy increases to 15 city and 21 highway
Silverado and Sierra have the best aerodynamics in the class
Towing capacity on Silverado and Sierra increases to 7,000 lbs (3,175 kg)
2009 GMC Sierra Hybrid Delivers 25-Percent Improved Fuel Economy With All Of GMC's Professional Grade Capability
2009 Chevrolet Silverado Hybrid Delivers 25-Percent Improved Fuel Economy And Delivers Chevy's Rugged Capability

DETROIT - General Motors is building on the segment-leading fuel economy of its full-size pickups and SUVs with new XFE models of the 2009 Chevy Silverado, Chevy Tahoe, GMC Sierra and GMC Yukon. The vehicles use a combination of mechanical, aerodynamic and mass-reducing enhancements to deliver a 5-percent increase in EPA-estimated highway fuel economy and more than 7-percent improved mileage in city driving.

The aero enhancements make Silverado XFE and Sierra XFE models the most aerodynamic full-size pickups in the industry, with a "Best in Class" 0.412 coefficient of drag (cd). The pickups join the Tahoe Hybrid and Yukon Hybrid as the most aerodynamic full-size SUVs at 0.349 (cd).

The new XFE - Xtra Fuel Economy - models reflect GM's quick adaptation to an evolving market that remains a very important segment. They are available on 2WD vehicles equipped with the 5.3L V-8 and six-speed transmission. They achieve 15 city and 21 highway mileage ratings versus comparable non-XFE models' 14/20 ratings. Most importantly, the increased efficiency does not come at the expense of capability. Towing ratings for the Tahoe and Yukon are unchanged, while the Silverado and Sierra increase from 6,600 pounds (2,994 kg) to 7,000 pounds (3,175 kg) due to the new, six-speed transmission and high-capacity cooling package.

"We are pulling out all the stops to deliver a more efficient package for customers who need the capability of full-size pickups and SUVs and want the very best fuel economy," said Gary White, GM North America vice president and vehicle line executive for full-size trucks. "Our pickups and SUVs are already the fuel economy leaders of their respective segments, but our engineers knew greater efficiency was achievable. We fast-tracked the XFE models to get them into dealer showrooms as quickly as possible."

All models carry the XFE name badge and are offered in the LT trim for Silverado and LS and LT trims for Tahoe. Sierra XFE comes with SLE trim and Yukon XFE is offered with SLE and SLT trim. Most regular-production options for all models are available. Silverado XFE and Sierra XFE are offered in 2wd crew cab body styles only. Production begins this fall.

"In addition to the XFE models, GM already offers hybrid versions of the Tahoe and Yukon that achieve up to a 50-percent improvement in city fuel economy and coming in the first half of 2009 are the Silverado and Sierra Hybrids," said White. "These hybrid pickups offer up to 25 percent overall increased fuel economy and greater than 40-percent improved mileage in city driving."

XFE efficiencies

GM's more efficient full-size pickups and SUVs are powered by a 5.3L FlexFuel V-8 (LC9) engine that's built with a mass-reducing aluminum cylinder block and heads. It is rated at 320 horsepower (238 kW)* and 340 lb.-ft. of torque (461 Nm)* in Tahoe and Yukon and 315 hp/235 kW and 338 lb-ft/458 Nm in Silverado and Sierra. The engine is backed by a Hydra-Matic 6L80 six-speed automatic transmission (with high-capacity cooling on Silverado and Sierra).

A rear axle equipped with a fuel-saving 3.08 ratio is also standard on all XFE models. Lightweight aluminum wheels and low rolling resistance tires (with higher tire pressure) also are included on all models.

Other unique content and features for Silverado XFE and Sierra XFE include:

Soft tonneau cover (improves aerodynamics)
Extended front lower air dam (improves aerodynamics)
Lowered suspension and revised chassis tuning (improve aerodynamics)
Aluminum lower control arms (reduce mass)
Aluminum spare wheel (reduces mass)
Seventeen-inch aluminum wheels (reduce mass)
Automatic locking rear differential
Trailering package
Low rolling resistance tires
Other unique content and features for Tahoe XFE and Yukon XFE include:

Lowered suspension and revised chassis tuning (improve aerodynamics)
Aluminum lower control arms (reduce mass)
Aluminum spare wheel (reduces mass)
Eighteen-inch aluminum wheels (reduce mass)
Automatic locking rear differential
Trailering package
Low rolling resistance tires
The new XFE models reinforce GM's commitment to full-size truck leadership, which continue to the industry's best and deliver the fuel economy, capability, quality and choice that are important to customers.

*SAE certified.

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<![CDATA[This Is Our Country, This Is Our Truck...And It Will Be For Quite Some Time]]> General Motors is planning to extend the current product cycle on its full-size trucks and SUVs, the Wall Street Journal reported Thursday. New designs had been expected to come in time for the 2012 model year. However GM spokesperson Tom Wilkinson told the Journal that GM was "looking at the whole product portfolio" in an effort to bring more fuel-efficient vehicles to the U.S. market. While the change in product planning should free up much-needed R&D funds, there's little doubt the lukewarm launch of the latest Toyota Tundra and the gas prices-induced slow-motion 2009 Dodge Ram and 2009 Ford F-150 launch train-wrecks influenced top brass at the Ren Cen.

The report also mentioned cancellation of a future Hummer product and the potential shuttering of a brand, though no concrete evidence has emerged to clarify whether the Hummer product cancellation and brand closure were one in the same (Hummer) or whether Hummer might be allowed to die on the vine while another weak brand, such as Buick, was closed outright or moved off-shore. [Automotive News (Sub. Req.)]

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<![CDATA[GM Offers Mind-Boggling $4,000 Incentive On Hybrid SUVs]]> After a massive 39.5% drop in full-size truck sales last month, the General has decided to follow Ford by upping the incentives on the off-roadin' people-haulers. But not only are they dropping more dollars on the hood of the basic one-powertrain models, they're dropping the same levels of cash on the new two-mode hybrid versions of GM's GMT-900 SUV twins — the GMC Yukon and Chevy Tahoe. While we're not surprised at seeing up to $6,000 thrown on the hood of the non-hybrid Tahoe and Yukon, a $4,000 owner loyalty rebate on the hybrids seems a bit surprising. Isn't this a hybrid sellers' market? Full incentive breakdown after the jump.

• Chevrolet — Tahoe (nonhybrid) or Suburban: $2,000 customer cash + $4,000 owner loyalty bonus cash = $6,000 total cash.

Tahoe (hybrid): $0 customer cash + $4,000 owner loyalty bonus cash = $4,000 total cash.

Silverado or Avalanche: $2,000 customer cash + $3,000 owner loyalty bonus cash = $5,000 total cash.

• GMC — Yukon: $2,000 customer cash + $4,000 owner loyalty bonus cash = $6,000 total cash.

Yukon (hybrid): $0 customer cash + $4,000 owner loyalty bonus cash = $4,000 total cash.

Sierra: $2,000 customer cash + $3,000 owner loyalty bonus cash = $5,000 total cash.

• Cadillac — Escalade: $2,000 customer cash + $2,000 bonus cash + $2,000 owner loyalty bonus cash = $6,000 total cash.

[Automotive News (sub. req.)]

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<![CDATA[2008 GMC Yukon Denali, Part Three]]> Why you should buy this car:
You believe you are, in fact, "Professional Grade." You've got a taste for honeycombed chrome, but not enough to go straight to the level of Cadillac Escalade. Your job requires you to drive around with at least five large men (or women) daily at a time, their various instruments of work with them.

Why you shouldn't:
You are a soccer mom looking for "something with room" or you happen to be anyone else on the face of this earth not included in the description above.


Suitability Parameters:
Speed Merchants: No
Fashion Victims: Yes
Treehuggers: No
Mack Daddies: No
Tuner Crowd: No
Hairdressers: No
Penny Pinchers: No
Euro Snobs: No
Working Stiffs: Yes
Technogeeks: No
Poseurs: No
Soccer Moms: No
Nascar Dads: No
Golfing Grandparents: No

Also Consider:
• Chevy Tahoe
• Toyota Sequoia
• Infiniti QX56
• Ford Expedition
• Lincoln Navigator
• Nissan Armada

Vitals:
• Manufacturer: GMC
• Model tested: Yukon Denali AWD
• Model year: 2008
• Base Price: $50,185
• Price as Tested: $55,750
• Engine type: 6.2-liter Vortec 6200 V8 SFI
• Horsepower: 380 @ 5,700rpm
• Torque: 417 lb/ft @ 4,400 RPM
• Red Line: 6,500 RPM
• Transmission: Hydra-Matic 6L80, 6-speed automatic
• Curb Weight: 5,838 lbs
• LxWxH: 222.4" x 79.1" x 77.1"
• Wheelbase: 116.0"
• Tires: P265/65R18
• Drive type: AWD
• 0 - 60 mph: 8.0 seconds
• 1/4-mile: N/A
• Top speed: 105 MPH
• EPA Fuel economy city/highway: 13/19 MPG
• NHTSA crash test rating: 5 Stars Driver/Passenger/Side Impact

Also see:


All of our reviews are always available by clicking the Jalopnik Reviews tag in the masthead.]]>
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<![CDATA[2008 GMC Yukon Denali, Part Two]]> Exterior Design: ***
The GMC Yukon Denali's front looks kind of like a Chevy Tahoe with the grille lopped off and replaced with a chrome chain-link fence. But don't worry, the back looks exactly like the Yukon's GMT-900 platformed sibling. Maybe it's because they share most of the body panels. And can it get any more chrome accents? Actually, no. Still, it's big and muscular. We like big and muscular. Of course so is the Tahoe.

Interior Design: ****
I feel as though I've seen this interior before — like on the GMC Sierra, the Chevy Silverado and the Chevy Tahoe. But no, that can't be — this interior says "GMC" on it — so it must be different, right? When will automakers learn that platform prostitution fools no one? Still, for the most part it's well-designed. Too bad Chrysler's got the patent on stow-and-go, as this heavy hauler could use the extra cargo space from a stowable flip-n-screw third row.

Acceleration: ****
The big 6.2-liter Vortec V8 gives you as much power as you need, whenever you need it. While we didn't have the opportunity to try to mash the pedal to the floor while towing, the 380 horses let us dart through traffic better than we expected we should have been able to, given the sheer size of this beast.

Braking: ****
Given the size, you'd expect long stopping distances, but the four-wheel disc brakes worked with aplomb, even when encountering the pressures of coffee-spilling stops that scared the bejeezus out of even our stony-faced road test editor. Seriously, we've just gotten those pants back from the cleaners — you know how many times it took for them to get the coffee stain out?

Ride: *****
Like a pillow. What? You didn't know the Yukon is the new Serta mattress? OK, not really, but the Yukon Denali took a series of potholes on I-75 like they were sidewalk cracks. This Huge-UV has the ability to take just about any standard byway or highway, regardless of disrepair, and make you feel like you're on the latest re-surfaced MDOT road.

Handling: **
The GMC Yukon handles like a beached whale. But, despite the Gigantor-like proportions, the turning radius was better than we expected. Still had to do a turn-and-backup on the road outside the ol' apartment building, but at least we didn't have to do it twice. So we guess there's that.

Gearbox: ****
The six-speed auto tranny may be good at helping the General wring that extra mpg out of the GMT-900's, but it's hopeless for feeling what gear you're in. Feel free to use the "+" and "-" buttons on the shift column to move up and down the gears. We didn't.

Audio: ****
Bose surround sound, XM Satellite radio, six-disc CD changer and the premium acoustic package. Nothing more than what you'd expect on a uber-equipped SUV.

Toys: ***
The power tailgate may be nice for the not-so-tall, but we wish it didn't force us to use it. Just another extra 15 seconds before we were comfortable pulling out of our parking spot. The rear DVD system would be great if we had kids in the back seat every day. But we don't and neither should anyone else buying this Giant-UV. Let's re-cap people — do not buy the GMC Yukon Denali as a soccer mom-mobile. And when are we going to get Xenon's GMC?

Value: **
At $55,750.00 the 2008 GMC Yukon Denali is more than some people put down to buy a house. Most people who need the room and size will probably find a non-Denali trim version will work out just fine for them and fulfill all their needs. And do it for $10,000 cheaper. This Truck-UV is only a value proposition if you're hauling lots of people and all their equipment. Period.

Overall: ***
It all comes down to what you're looking for. Frankly, although it works for us, there's very few folks it'll do the same for. And the Chevy Tahoe looks better, does the same thing, and costs much less money.

Also see:

All of our reviews are always available by clicking the Jalopnik Reviews tag in the masthead.]]>
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<![CDATA[2008 GMC Yukon Denali, Part One]]> I first became acquainted with the 2008 GMC Yukon Denali when I called up the folks at the General in January and said "Hey, we need a mobile command center for the Detroit Auto Show...and oh yeah, it's got to seat six plus gear." GM's media fleet people claimed they had the right vehicle for us. I was skeptical, but from the moment this GMT-900-bodied beast of burden showed up at my front step I found there to be one truism about the Yukon Denali. And that is this — with all the different blank-UV options in the marketplace, very few people need this barge of a full-size SUV. But, if you do need one, you know who you are.

I think I'm now one of those people who "knows" I need one — at least some of the time. Since January, I've now spent so much time in the 2008 GMC Yukon Denali, I almost feel like GM should just hand over the keys. But I can't help it. The Yukon just seems to be a convenient choice whenever we've got the team in the Detroit area and we need a heavy hauler to lug our portly auto-writing frames around. Not to mention seemingly having more equipment in tow than is needed to put together a Top Gear segment.

Case in point. My most recent time spent behind the wheel of the new up-optioned Yukon was the end of last month — for a quick photo shoot with an upcoming vehicle being revealed at the New York Auto Show. With an extra two guys in town and their assorted video and camera equipment, that standard CUV's just going to end up getting stuffed to the gills. Not the Yukon.

As if hoisting myself into the driver's seat isn't enough, all it takes is a quick look out the front windshield (or into the rear-view mirror, across the cavernous double rear rows of seats and out the rear window) and you notice your vision falling well above the roofs of most cars in your line of sight. That's all you really need to remind you this ain't no pansy crossover you're rumbling down the road in.

Or you could just look at your gas gauge. Yeah, it's no 20 miles-plus per gallon CUV, that's for sure. Close to 20, maybe — we saw 17.8 MPG in mixed city/highway driving (EPA 13/19) — but definitely not 20-plus. But you're also not going to find any crossover on the market with a 6.2-liter V8 under the hood giving you 380 horses to play with and max torque of 417 lb-ft. But you'll need an engine that big with an animal packing 5800+ pounds unladen, like the Yukon truck-UV. Anything less would be pokey given this elephant of a vehicle's pack animal purpose.

It kills me when I see a MILF driving a Yukon or it's Chevy brother, the Tahoe, through the suburbs of Metro Detroit. That's because the Yukon, like any pack animal, isn't designed to pick the kids up from soccer practice or bring the groceries to your suburban home. Save those suburban tasks for something smaller, more pedestrian and definitely more pocketbook friendly at the pump. No, this camel of a cargo-carrier should only be used when you've got seven souls in the seats and all 45.8 cubic feet of cargo area behind the third row packed to the gills with equipment. Soccer moms need not apply.

I, on the other hand, feel like I need a vehicle like this. Well, at least I do when I'm not paying for it.

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<![CDATA[Knight Rider's Not-So-Surprising Climax, Yukon Smash]]> For those not wanting to sit through the first 108 minutes of the two-hour Ford commercial that was Knight Rider, we've got the less-than-climactic climax (and no, Lesbian surf FBI agent is not involved in said climax). We don't want to give too much away, but needless to say GMC products did not fair well. If you didn't see the exposition, you may wonder how KITT manages to survive such a powerful impact. One word: Nanorobots.

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<![CDATA[Celebs To Arrive At Oscars In Style, Also In GM Eco-Friendly Vehicles]]> This year's Oscar ceremony is going to highlight environmental responsibility, making it different from previous Oscar ceremonies... somehow. While in previous years celebrities were driven to the red carpet in Prius hybrids, this year they'll arrive in GMC Yukon Hybrids, which get significantly worse gas mileage than the Prius, and Fuel Cell Equinoxes, which rely on an infrastructure still more expensive than The Adventures of Pluto Nash. Is this Hollywood taking a step backwards? Perhaps they're learning from Detroit. Press release below the jump.

GM Premieres First Ever Fuel Cell, Hybrid SUV Fleet At The Oscars

LOS ANGELES - The red-carpet arrivals at the 80th Annual Academy Awards® on Feb. 24, will be transformed with advanced technology vehicles from GMC and Chevrolet. This fuel-friendly fleet - larger than any other assembled for a major awards show before - will enable Hollywood's hottest talent to enjoy stylish and environmentally friendly rides in one of more than 75 vehicles, including the GMC Yukon Hybrid, the zero-gas and zero-emissions Chevy Equinox Fuel Cell and the FlexFuel E85 ethanol-compatible GMC Yukon.

As the only ABC Network automotive sponsor of the 2008 Oscar® telecast, GMC and Chevrolet will bring hybrid and fuel cell technology to the forefront at the red carpet, and other Oscar Week events. The fleet continues GM's major strategic effort to provide "fuel-friendly" vehicles to the entertainment industry and spread the word about GM's environmentally-conscious cars, trucks and SUVs.

"GM's longstanding relationship with Hollywood and our strong commitment to bringing advanced technologies to market that will help diversify fuel sources and reduce vehicle emissions makes this the perfect time for GM to drive 'green' to the Oscars," said Dino Bernacchi, GM Director of Marketing Alliances and Branded Entertainment. "Our outreach to showcase GM's 'fuel-friendly' products will be increasingly evident in the entertainment industry in 2008 with presence at awards shows, film festivals and special events, as well as a heightened product placement effort in movies and television."

GM's ramped-up efforts to drive Hollywood "green" began with "fuel-friendly" vehicles at the 50th Annual GRAMMY Awards and 39th NAACP Image Awards. Chevrolet is also reaching out to the next generation of tomorrow's influencers with the first-ever "Chevy Rocks The Future" event on Feb. 19. GM already provides the largest "fuel-friendly" product placement fleet to Hollywood producers and directors with nearly 20 different vehicle types.

Later this quarter, Chevrolet will hand over the keys to Chevy Equinox Fuel Cell vehicles to major entertainment celebrities for everyday use as part of its Project Driveway program - an effort by Chevrolet to move fuel cell technology from the laboratory into consumers' driveways.

The GMC Yukon Hybrid is the industry's first full-size SUV hybrid. No other hybrid can offer the fuel efficiency and full-size SUV performance including seating for up to 8 passengers and 6,200 lbs. maximum towing.

The 2008 Yukon Hybrid boasts vastly improved fuel economy over its gasoline-only sibling. Two-wheel drive models, for example, deliver 21 mpg in the city, a 50-percent improvement over its 5.3L non-hybrid sibling and comparable to the much-smaller 2.4L-equipped Toyota Camry sedan, according to figures obtained from www.fueleconomy.gov.

This year's Oscars will be the first major awards show where a fleet of fuel cell vehicles will provide transportation for celebrities. The Chevy Equinox Fuel Cell electric vehicle is a zero-gas, zero-emissions vehicle that makes no compromises, achieving 0 to 60 mph in 12 seconds, 236-lb.-ft. of instant torque and top speed of about 100 miles per hour. It seats four, sports 32 cubic feet of cargo volume for everybody's gear, and has a range of approximately 150 miles per fill-up based on the new 2008 EPA adjusted measurement. The Equinox Fuel Cell also features full four-wheel ABS for controlled, confident stopping.

Aside from its dramatically different propulsion system, the Equinox Fuel Cell looks and drives much like a production Chevy Equinox (a small SUV).

In addition to the GMC Yukon Hybrid and Chevy Fuel Cell Equinox, a select number of FlexFuel E85 ethanol-compatible Yukon SUVs will drive to the red carpet. Biofuels such as E85 ethanol have tremendous potential to help offset the world's growing energy demands, and General Motors offers more FlexFuel E85 ethanol-capable models than any other brand, with 2.5 million FlexFuel E85 ethanol vehicles currently on the road. FlexFuel E85 ethanol vehicles can run on either gasoline or E85 ethanol - a blend of 85 percent ethanol and 15 percent gasoline - or a combination of both.

The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS) will present the 80th Annual Academy Awards for outstanding film achievements of 2007, on Sunday, Feb. 24, at the Kodak Theatre at Hollywood & Highland Center®, televised live at 5 p.m. PST/8 p.m. EST by the ABC Television Network.

[Source: GM]

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<![CDATA[2008 Smart Fortwo: First U.S. Drive]]> The 2008 Smart Fortwo is burdened with preconceived notions like no car before it. It's not safe. You can't drive it on the highway. It's too small for super sized Americans. It's Green. It's gay. The car was launched in Europe in 1998, so Americans have had a decade to develop these assumptions. Until now, few have driven it, and never on American soil. Yesterday, we did.

On Monday, we got a call from our friend Nick, who - thanks to a Blackberry and a spirit of adventure - is the first U.S. customer to take delivery of his very own Smart. The company even gave him a plaque to commemorate the occasion. It credits him in part with, "Initiating a revolutionary change in the way Americans think about transportation."

We do need to change the way we think about the Smart. It is safe. Mercedes developed the original version with the goal of making it as safe as their E-class. Bookended by crumple zones, a steel roll cage surrounds the occupants. Not only does that cage resist deformation in even the most severe impacts, in a crash it will actually activate the crumple zones on larger cars, using their in-built protection to cushion the Smart's occupants, too. It also comes with the full retinue of airbags.

It feels safe, too. The size defines the driving experience, but not in the way you might expect. Rather than feeling intimidated in traffic, you feel empowered. Gone is the need to take responsibility for an acre of SUV on a crowded road. Present is the freedom to move down that crowded road as you see fit. Congested urban streets and crowded highways stop feeling claustrophobic and start feeling easy. It's quick to turn, yet feels more stable than most vehicles twice its size.

It's not too small inside. I'm 6'2" and I couldn't reach the steering wheel with the driver's seat all the way back. Compare it to the front cabin of big SUVs like, say, GM's Yukon / Escalade / Tahoe and the Smart is positively spacious, thanks to it's airy design and upright seats.

It's not Green. The problem is, the Smart isn't that smart. The 1-liter, 70bhp engine has to work hard, so it only averages about 38mpg. Less if you drive fast. In Detroit, Mercedes showed off something they called the Micro Hybrid. It wasn't a hybrid at all, but switched itself off below 5mph, resulting in urban fuel consumption of 58mpg. The Smart desperately needs that technology, or a least a diesel engine.

It's not gay either. Sure, if you live in a doublewide and think Budweiser is the height of sophistication, then the Smart probably doesn't fit your Trans-Am ideal of what a manly car should be. But neither does it carry the level of campness of say, a Volkswagen Beetle. Rather, in traffic, the Smart's driver looks, well, smart.

So the Smart is a more complete, practical car than most people assume it to be - but that's also its biggest problem. Most people who stop to ask what it is think it's electric or at least a hybrid. It isn't. Neither is it cheap. The Fortwo Passion Cabriolet pictured here costs $18,500. It'll still get caught in traffic jams. Look at the Smart as a practical car that's easier to use in an urban environment than anything else, and you'll be happy. Look at it as fundamentally altering the way Americans think about transportation though, and you'll be disappointed.

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<![CDATA[ OK, kids — real quick now, what's...]]> OK, kids — real quick now, what's funny about this eBay listing for the rear seat to a late model GMC Yukon? If you guessed the "current bid" at $99,999,999.00 — you're only half way there. That's actually just people dicking with the seller. No, the real hilarity is why he's being dicked with. [eBay]

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<![CDATA[GM, UAW Agreement Details Out In Open: C3XX Is The New GMT-900 In 2012]]> In addition to the news on the discontinuation of discounted AOL service and a small rear-wheel-drive platform named Alpha, there's also news from GM's wide world of pickup trucks. Those pretty brand-spankin' new GMT-900 pickup trucks and SUV's from Chevy and GMC? They've already got a replacement platform, and the General's calling it "C3XX." And really, that's all we know — in 2012 (2013 for the Arlington, Texas plant), C3XX will be the new GMT-900. That is all.

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<![CDATA[Jalopnik Drives Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid]]> We recently got a chance behind the wheel of a road-test model 2008 Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid. We can now confirm that yes, it is still an SUV as well as being a hybrid. At the heart of the Chevrolet's two-mode hybrid system, developed with BMW and the erstwhile DaimlerChrysler, is a transmission that brings together the planetary and fixed gears of an autobox with dual electric motors. That same transmission joins forces with a V8 engine to retain the part of SUV folks like, with the added bonus of an uptick in fuel efficiency.

Installing the hybrid powertrain meant giving the Tahoe a distinctive look. Since the system adds on around 400 pounds of curb weight, GM engineers set about removing mass from other places. Aluminum replaces steel at the rear lift-gate, hood and bumper. An all-new stamping of the hood ties into modified front-end features to increase aerodynamic slip. Even the running boards have been redesigned to help the Tahoe slide thorough the air with less effort. Further mass was extracted from the seats, wheels and tires.

Starting the Tahoe was standard turning-the-key type business. As in Toyota's Hybrid Synergy Drive system, the screen normally occupied by the navigation system now features animated graphics displaying what percentage of which mode is powering the vehicle. There's also a simpler economy gauge with a needle left of the speedometer to prevent driving mishaps while gazing at the fancy display.

Also as in full hybrid systems like Toyota's and Ford's, a feather foot will keep the Tahoe in full electric mode. A leaden foot brought on the familiar Chevrolet V8 kick, which scooted the monster into motion as expected. Some quick regenerative braking brought the Tahoe to a stop, and full autostop mode silenced the behemoth in standstill Santa Monica, California traffic.

The usual engine-driven accessories have been replaced by all-electric versions, so power steering and AC work while the Tahoe is running in both electric-only and autostop mode. Besides hanging out in California, the Tahoe and GMC cousin Yukon have both been run up to the cold of the Great White North for frigidity tests and down to Death Valley for a scorched-earth exam. As GM staff pointed out, the core hybrid technology behind the two-mode transmission had also been torture tested in the running gear of GM-Allison public transit buses before being incorporated into the larger GM hybrid plan, of which the two-mode Tahoe is just one part. The other part is the Volt plug-in dealy.

Cramming hybrid technology into the existing Tahoe body without having to tear up the base platform or the Arlington, Texas plant where the Tahoe will be built has helped streamline production. GM expects to have the two-mode system installed in showroom Tahoes and Yukons available this this Fall as 2008 models. GM says the system improves city mileage by 40 percent. GM's has yet to reveal highway improvement figures, though had said the composite highway target was 25 percent. Engineers say they're hoping to best that highway figure when the official numbers are released.

Channeling the power according to driver demand is the HOS, or Hybrid Operating System. By joining the HOS and two-mode transmission with existing engines, GM plans to make hybrid technology across the entire model lineup. Theoretically there are no limitations as to which engines can bolt up to the two-mode transmission, from full size trucks to smaller Saturns. A turbodiesel or even flex-fuel engine could married to the transmission, with the HOS sorting it all out. Such modularity could give GM an edge when it comes to hybrid line expansion. Pricing has yet to be announced, but we were assured the Tahoe and Yukon Hybrids would not be the most expensive models on the showroom floor. Still, we're saving our change for the Hoss Cartwright Bonanza Edition Yukon.

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<![CDATA[Who knew Lindsay Lohan's DUI could be good...]]> Who knew Lindsay Lohan's DUI could be good for GM SUV's? [Detroit News]

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<![CDATA[GM May Subsidize $10,000 Two-Mode Hybrid Powertrain]]> Automotive News is reporting the General's new dual-mode hybrid powertrain, which has two electric motors to assist the engine, and is one of what may be up to three new hybrid powertrain systems for the General, costs $10,000. The dual-mode hybrid system is designed to be dropped into the upcoming hybrid versions of the GMT-900 twins, the GMC Yukon and Chevrolet Tahoe. Although considering the Toyota Highlander hybrid costs about $8,000 more than the base model Toyota Highlander, this sounds pretty much in line with the rest of the industry. But, to make a more steal-like deal out of the dual-mode expected to cut 25% of the fuel consumption in the big SUV's, we're also hearing GM's looking to subsidize the cost. Sounds like a smart marketing move to us but we'll see if it translates to a sticker price that'll push big beasts out of dealer lots.

GM may eat hybrid cost (sub. req.) [Automotive News]

Related:
Tahoe Hybrid to be Produced In Texas; LA Auto Show: 2008 GMC Yukon Hybrid Unveiled [internal]

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<![CDATA[GMC Yukon Hybrid Site Goes Live]]> We've just noticed that the hybrid from the brand all about being "Professional Grade" just went live. Feel free to check it out to get some more details on the GMC version of the GMT-900 SUV that's got the Daimler/Chrysler/BMW/GM powertrain that's attempting to show it's easy being green for a big SUV.

GMC Yukon Hybrid Website [GMC.com]

Related:
LA Auto Show: 2008 GMC Yukon Hybrid Unveiled; Spy Photos: Cadillac Escalade Hybrid ?; DCX, GM Finally Sign Hybrid Pact; Chrysler Reveals Dual-Mode Hybrid Dodge Durango And Chrysler Aspen, We Drive [internal]

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<![CDATA[The 1996 2-Door FakEscalade]]> This is the type of custom car that just shouldn't exist. I mean, I understand the love of the bling — but unless you're turning a Fiat cinquecento, Mini Cooper or other similarly sized car into an Escalade look-a-like, you're just selling yourself short. Especially when the target of your Escaladization is a 2-Door 1996 Yukon. Still, if mid-90's 2-Door GMC's are your cup o' tea and you're looking to be rocking it more fabu than the rest — all this can be yours for the price of a mere $20,000. Have at it suburban studs.

1996 GMC Yukon Custom 2 Door 2002 + Escalade Look [Craigslist]

Related:
Bullrun 2007: What Will Wert Drive? [internal]

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<![CDATA[LA Auto Show: 2008 GMC Yukon Hybrid Unveiled]]>

GM's Week of the Hybrid may have been punctuated by the plug-in announcement ("we're working on it"), but the most significant hybrid in the General's stable over the short term is the GMC Yukon, which it unveiled at the LA Auto Show earlier this week. The 2008 model, whose release date is still a year away, will feature the GM/DaimlerChrysler/BMW two-mode hybrid-drive system, supporting a Vortec V8 (FYI: the two modes are slow and fast). The system allows electric-only power at low speeds — comparable to Toyota's hybrids — as well as cylinder deactivation and various cam and valve tweaks to increase the small-block's efficiency. Some body pieces have been redesigned to reduce weight. All told, the General is expecting a 25% improvement in fuel economy over a comparable gas-only model. In a pinch, it can also tow 6,000 pounds worth of solar panels back to the underground eco-shack in Taos. That's what we call win-win-sort-of-win.


yukon_hybrid_gall.jpg


Related:
Tahoe Hybrid to be Produced In Texas [internal]

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<![CDATA[Spy Photos: GMT-900 Chevy Tahoe And GMC Yukon SS?]]>
That's what our Paukert-ed up friends at the blog down the road which winds are telling us this AM. They're claiming what you've got in crop-top-drop-shot above, and through the link below is none other than the GMT-900 edition of the Chevy Tahoe and GMC Yukon in some kind of "performance package", maybe even the SorrySucker SuperSexyBack SuperSport packages. But Winding Road asks the same questions we do — is this just a trim 'n tape job, or some real performance enhancements? Considering our experiences with some of Chevy's more recent SS models — and comments from more than a few engineers — we're guessing maybe not so much. But we really do like the camo job on the GMC — taping a Chevy bowtie to the front grille. 'Cause nothing reminds us more of badge-engineering than actually dropping the old badge back on top. Winding Road's got pics of both GMT-900 SUV's — hit them up for the deets.

Update: Sources tell us it's the Z71 package. We were only kidding calling it the SS...we swear — all for comedic effect.

GM Readying Racier GMT900 SUVs! [Winding Road]

Related:
GM Debuts Largest GMC, Chevrolet SUVs in Los Angeles [internal]

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<![CDATA[Jalopnik Reviews: 2007 GMC Yukon Denali, Part 3]]>
Why you should buy this car:
It's big, fast and when it comes to interior quality and refinement, it's one of GM's best. And wait — did we mention it's fast? All that and a smattering of gadgets make this look like a bargain compared to the Mercedes-Benz GL450.

Why you shouldn't buy this car:
The Tahoe looks better, and the Escalade has more cachet. 13 miles per gallon in the city. Fifty-two grand is a whole heap of change for a glorified family car - if you really want to haul the kids, buy a Sprinter Van.

Suitability Parameters:
Speed Merchants: Yes
Fashion Victims: No
Treehuggers: No
Mack Daddies: Yes
Tuner Crowd: No
Hairdressers: No
Penny Pinchers: No
Euro Snobs: No
Working Stiffs: Yes
Technogeeks: No
Poseurs: No
Soccer Moms: Yes
Nascar Dads: Yes
Golfing Grandparents: Yes

Also Consider:
Lincoln Navigator
Chevrolet Tahoe
Infiniti QX56

Vitals:
Manufacturer: GMC
Model tested: Yukon Denali AWD
Model year: 2007
Base Price: $47,115
Price as Tested: $52,275
Engine type: 6.2-liter OHV 16-valve V-8
Horsepower: 380 hp @ 5500 rpm
Torque: 417 ft.-lbs. @ 4400 rpm
Redline: 6000 rpm
Transmission: 6-speed manumatic
Curb Weight: 5835 lbs
LxWxH: 202.0 x 79.0 x 75.9 in
Wheelbase: 116.0 in
Tires: P275/55R20 Bridgestone Dueler H/L Alenza
Drive type: all-wheel-drive
0 - 60 mph: 6.2 sec. (Car and Driver, April 2006)
1/4-mile: 15.0 sec. @ 94 mph (Car and Driver, April 2006)
Fuel economy city/highway: 13 / 19
NHTSA crash test rating: front: 5/5 (driver/passenger); side: not tested; rollover: 3

[by Mike Austin]

Related:
Jalopnik Reviews: 2007 GMC Yukon Denali, Part 1, Part 2 [internal]

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