Chevrolet Avalanche

2008 Chevrolet Avalanche Black Diamond Anniversary Edition

Yesterday it was freezing and light drizzle brought on by Hurricane Sandy had graced us with her presence. I had seen this Avalanche on our lot in the early morning, and when I got some time I was going to come take it for a spin. Around 1 pm my boss comes in and asks me to drive the Avalanche to our Dixie Highway store (the opposite end of town), which is pretty much the best thing that's happened to me all day. As I approach the vehicle I can't help but drool over how gorgeous this truck really is. The lines are incredible, the styling is bold, the chrome is reflecting off the black exterior paint job perfectly. The inside is cavernous and simply stunning. Everything looks great so far. I pull out of the lot and head for I-64. The majority of this test drive takes place on I-64, with a little bit of Dixie Highway time (Nothing but traffic). Right off the bat I feel comfortable. The visibility is good, with the exception of the C-Pillar, and I really like what I'm seeing. Looks wise these trucks are awesome, but as we all know already, looks aren't everything. The whole test drive I felt like I was fighting the steering wheel, it almost needed constant attention. Once I got up to 70 mph, the truck drove and rode like a Cadillac. But seriously how much time to you spend going 70 mph. You pretty much have to smash the accelerator, to get any loving from the engine, and the brakes have to be ppressed with real determination, in order to stop. I don't usually knock vehicles on this blog, but I was terribly dissappointed. Sure she's sexy, but she's really expensive, and she's not all that you would expect from a $40,000 plus truck. Instead of ranting and bashing this truck, I'll say that the real suprise of the day came when I dropped the Avalanche off. They put me in a 2012 Chevrolet Traverse LTZ. Now the Traverse is all that and a bag of chips! The Traverse had eye catching lines, tons of room, but not bulky, and a super smooth ride. The Traverse was loaded with Rearview Cameras, Dual Moonroof, and a Premium stereo system. The Traverse literally stole the show. It's a good looking suv and perfect for a growing family. The conditions were wet and the roadways were flooded with driver's who can't drive in the rain, but this Traverese steeped up and delivered! One of my new favorite suv's is definitley the Traverse. We sold the unit I demoed, but I will sit down when I can and write a true review of the Traverse, because it's well worth it. I don't want to sound mean, but the Avalanche kind of sucks. I'd much rather have a F-150 or even a Silverado. The Avalanche is like having a super hot girlfriend, but when she opens her mouth, she runs evryone off. So to end this little tale I'll leave you with this: If you want to drive a truck that looks good but doesn't behave, this might be the truck for you. Super disappointed in the Avalanche, but very impressed with Chevy's Traverse. Can't win em all, I guess! Thanks for your time and we appreciate you taking the time to read our blog!

http://www.edmunds.com/chevrolet/avalanche/2008/

http://www.motortrend.com/cars/2008/chevrolet/avalanche/specifications/

Video of 2008 Chevrolet Avalanche
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eviRbaayk2A


Engine & Performance

• Base engine size: 5.3 L
• Cam type: Overhead valves (OHV)
• Cylinders: V8
• Valves: 16
• Torque: 340 ft-lbs. @ 4200 rpm
• Horsepower: 320 hp @ 5200 rpm
• Turning circle: 43.0 ft.

• Base engine type: gas

DriveTrain

• Drive type: rear wheel drive
• Transmission: 4-speed automatic

Suspension

• Short and long arm front suspension
• Multi-link rear suspension
• Front independent suspension
• Front and rear stabilizer bar

Fuel

• Fuel type: gas
• Fuel type: regular unleaded
• Fuel tank capacity: 31.0 gal.
• Range in miles (cty/hwy): 434.0/620.0 mi.
• EPA mileage est. (cty/hwy): 14/20 mpg

2012 Jeep Liberty 4X4

2012 Jeep Liberty 4X4
3.7L V-6


Jeeps have long had a cult like following in America. A following that says we "can't understand" unless we are a part of it. So today I took the opportunity to drive the 2012 Jeep Liberty Sport 4X4. As always the Jeep suv's have the boxy Jeep look with a dominant and historically bold grill gracing the front. The style is not my personal favorite, but for some there is no better looking suv on the road. The one I'll drive today is dressed in a marron metallic and looks just as classy as it does ruggedly stylish. This Liberty will fit in at the Country Club or the local P.T.A. meeting. I approach with my normal test drive anticipation, and I'm headed a minimum of 25 miles today. Some highway miles and some back roads. Today's adventure won't have an offroad theme, which is disapointing, but every Jeep I have ever driven off road has performed with unmatched and unparalled capabilities. That being said this one will probably go anywhere you want to take it. Once inside the Jeep, I start to get comfortable. I adjust the mirrors, seat, program my favorite local radio channels, and fire it up. It's not a loud engine at all, but there is a Jeepish sound that is noticeable in the cabin. The seats feel good, but they are sturdy, and made to withstand the elements, so with that, they aren't comparable to say a Lexus RX350 or Acura MDX, but they aren't supposed to be comparable anyway. The interior has a very common feel to it for me. I take pictures for the dealership, so I get in and out of tons of Jeeps. They all use the same buttons, switches, radios, etc. We sell tons of Jeeps. Jeeps have a huge following, and I am starting to understand why. The ride wasn't smooth by any means, but it isn't supposed to be. The sound system was good, the ergonomics were good, and the overall feel is very comfortable. It's a Jeep thing and I'm starting to get it. Jeep customers are paying for what they want and like. It's not supposed to be a Cadillac, it's a Jeep. The power was plentiful and there was always some in reserve. The highway merging was great and pretty fun. These things have some power and the highways were enjoyable. You can pass and merge, and do so with confidence. I didn't really feel much sway in the body on corners or curves, and for an suv it was pretty cool all around. I liked this Jeep. It would fit my lifestyle pretty nicely. I think it would fit most the people I knows lifestyle nicely. They say "It's a Jeep thing you wouldn't understand", but I'm starting to get it:) Well worth a look if your in the midsize SUV market.


Engine & Performance

• Base engine size: 3.7 L
• Cam type: Single overhead cam (SOHC)
• Cylinders: V6
• Valves: 12
• Torque: 235 ft-lbs. @ 4000 rpm
• Horsepower: 210 hp @ 5200 rpm
• Turning circle: 35.5 ft.

• Base engine type: gas

DriveTrain

• Drive type: rear wheel drive
• Transmission: 4-speed automatic

Suspension

• Short and long arm front suspension
• Solid live axle rear suspension
• Front independent suspension
• Front and rear stabilizer bar

Fuel

• Fuel type: gas
• Fuel type: regular unleaded
• Fuel tank capacity: 19.5 gal.
• Range in miles (cty/hwy): 312.0/429.0 mi.
• EPA mileage est. (cty/hwy): 16/22 mpg

Mechanical Options

• Engine Block Heater

Highlights

• FUEL ECONOMY (CTY/HWY) 16/22 mpg
• CAR TYPE4dr Suv
• TRANSMISSION 4-speed Automatic
• BASIC WARRANTY 3 Yr./ 36000 Mi.

• ENGINE TYPE Gas
• TOTAL SEATING5
• CYLINDERSV6
• CONSUMER RATINGNot Available

http://www.edmunds.com/jeep/liberty/2012/features-specs.html?style=101399524

http://www.cars.com/jeep/liberty/2012/

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

2012 Mercedes Benz E-Class Cabriolet

2012 Mercedes Benz E-350 Cabriolet 2-Door Rear Wheel Drive , 302 bhp, 273 lb-ft, 7-sp Automatic, 18/28 mpg
4 passengers, 3950 lb, 3.5-liter, V-6 engine, 13.1 lb/bhp

From the moment I spotted this vehicle on our lot, I prayed for the gas gauge to border empty. The empty tank equates to a trip to the gas station, and a trip to the gas station means 15 minutes in a driver's paradise. Today was that day! With the tank brordering E, I approahced the Steel gray metallic beast with a huge smile and a beautiful sun shining down on me. I couldn't help but stop and admire the crisp, bold lines, the folks in Germany decided to bless us with this time around. I've written before of Mercedes's legendary SL 500 and SL550's roadsters. There is no doubt in my mind at this point, that Mercedes Benz builds the most luxurious and exhilerating roadster/convertibles in the World! I love the SL's and I fell hard for this E-350 drop top.
I slid into the beautifully appointed cabin, and as always Mercedes didn't dissappoint. The leather is sturdy, yet supple, gorgeous, yet sporty. Every button, every ammenity carefully layed out. I reach for the arm rest first. This is where, conveniently hidden the power top button rests. The hard top quickly, and silently nestles it's self down into it's hideaway. Next, I reach for the stereo and program my 6 favorite local channels, position my mirrors, and adjust my seat. I am now perfectly situated for my 2 mile excursion:)

As I pull out on to Hurstbourne Pkwy (One of Louisville, KY's most congested roadways), I can feel the stares already. The oncoming traffic, can't help but catch a glimpse of Europe's finest, trying to slip into their little rat race. As, I carefully nudge the accelerator the E-Class wants to take off a like a wild horse. It almost feels like you are trying to contain it, and control it vs begging it for power. I love the way this car feels, looks, smells, drives, corners, and brakes. I'm already impressed and this party has just started. As I float through several lights I realize I have the top down and I'm not being assaulted by the wind I'm simply greeted by it's presence. The day is perfect and I'm stoked about this how perfect this car feels. I decide to slam the brakes at the next light. The braking is near pefrect. The car doesn't nose dive or fight you, the vehicle simply squats where you tell her too. I decide to switch to the steering wheel mounted paddle shifters to run through the gears when the light turns green. The moment the light turns green, I'm rolling through the first 3 gears, and the connection between myself and the vehicle is absolutley awesome. The engine purrs, but doesn't roar, and it's matched perfectly with the transmission.

 Eventually I'm at the gas station filling up a Premium Fuel tank. Thinking to myself, I'm glad I'm not catching the bill on this fill up. As soon as I'm done I make a turn on to Taylorsville Rd, realizing I'm headed in the wrong direction. I quickly slide into a parking lot and effortlessly turn the car around. The turning radius was phenomenal. Once I'm at the next light, both phones start ringing. One is my boss telling me to get the car back to the dealership A.S.A.P., the other is a potential client. I look down, I'm dressed in a blue button down Polo shirt, jeans, and sweet brown loafers, and realize I'm that guy! I'm the dude at the light in the 2012 Drop top Benz, Polo'ed up talking on two cell phones. This is my super busy, rich guy, moment. As I pull up to the lot, I realize some lucky person will have this car in their garage soon, and my days of being the two cell phone rich Mercedes guy are over. It was fun while it lasted, and I absolutley loved this car. Last but not least the back seat is easily the most comfortable back seat in a convertible I've ever sat in. Thanks for taking the time to read my little story, and if you get a chance, drive one of these things even if it's only to the gas station.

$58595 E350 E350 Cabriolet
2-Door Rear Wheel Drive , 302 bhp, 273 lb-ft, 7-sp Automatic, 18/28 mpg
4 passengers, 3950 lb, 3.5-liter, V-6 engine, 13.1 lb/bhp

• SPECIFICATIONS
• FEATURES
• SAFETY & WARRANTY

Brakes
Brake Type	Pwr
Brake ABS System	4-Wheel
Brake ABS System (Second Line)	N/A
Disc - Front (Yes or )	Yes
Disc - Rear (Yes or )	Yes
Front Brake Rotor Diam x Thickness	12.7 x 1.3 in
Rear Brake Rotor Diam x Thickness	11.8 x 0.9 in

Cargo Area Dimensions
Trunk Volume	11.5 ft³

Cooling System
Total Cooling System Capacity	N/A qts

Electrical
Cold Cranking Amps @ 0° F (Primary)	N/A
Maximum Alternator Capacity (amps)	N/A

Emissions
Tons/yr of CO2 Emissions @ 15K mi/year	8.3
EPA Greenhouse Gas Score	5

Engine
Engine Type	Gas V6
Displacement	3.5L/213
Fuel System	Direct Injection
SAE Net Horsepower @ RPM	302 @ 6500
SAE Net Torque @ RPM	273 @ 3500-5250

Exterior Dimensions
Wheelbase	108.7 in
Length, Overall	185.0 in
Width, Max w/o mirrors	N/A in
Height, Overall	55.2 in
Track Width, Front	60.5 in
Track Width, Rear	60.8 in
Min Ground Clearance	3.0 in
Liftover Height	N/A in

Fuel Tank
Fuel Tank Capacity, Approx	22.0 gal
Aux Fuel Tank Capacity, Approx	N/A gal

Interior Dimensions
Passenger Capacity	4
Passenger Volume	N/A ft³
Front Head Room	40.2 in
Front Leg Room	42.0 in
Front Shoulder Room	40.4 in
Front Hip Room	N/A in
Second Head Room	35.8 in
Second Leg Room	32.9 in
Second Shoulder Room	48.9 in
Second Hip Room	N/A in

Mileage
EPA Fuel Economy Est - Hwy	28 MPG
Cruising Range - City	396.00 mi
EPA Fuel Economy Est - City	18 MPG
Fuel Economy Est-Combined	22 MPG
Cruising Range - Hwy	616.00 mi
EPA MPG Equivalent - City	N/A
EPA MPG Equivalent - Hwy	N/A
EPA MPG Equivalent - Combined	N/A
Battery Range	N/A mi

Steering
Steering Type	Pwr Rack & Pinion
Steering Ratio (:1), Overall	14.7
Lock to Lock Turns (Steering)	3.0
Turning Diameter - Curb to Curb	35.3 ft

Suspension
Suspension Type - Front	Independent
Suspension Type - Rear	Multi-Link
Shock Absorber Diameter - Front	N/A mm
Shock Absorber Diameter - Rear	N/A mm
Stabilizer Bar Diameter - Front	N/A in
Stabilizer Bar Diameter - Rear	N/A in

Tires
Front Tire Size	P235/45R17
Rear Tire Size	P255/40R17
Spare Tire Size	Compact

Trailering

Transmission
Drivetrain	Rear Wheel Drive
Trans Type	7
Trans Description Cont.	Automatic
First Gear Ratio (:1)	4.38
Second Gear Ratio (:1)	2.86
Third Gear Ratio (:1)	1.92
Fourth Gear Ratio (:1)	1.37
Fifth Gear Ratio (:1)	1.00
Sixth Gear Ratio (:1)	0.82
Reverse Ratio (:1)	3.42/2.23
Final Drive Axle Ratio (:1)	2.82
Seventh Gear Ratio (:1)	0.73

Vehicle
EPA Classification	Subcompact Cars

Weight Information
Base Curb Weight	3948 lbs

Wheels
Front Wheel Size	17 x 7.5 in
Rear Wheel Size	17 x 8.5 in
Spare Wheel Size	Compact in
Front Wheel Material	Aluminum
Rear Wheel Material	Aluminum
Spare Wheel Material http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/10/2011-mercedes-benz-e-class-cabriolet-first-drive/ http://buyersguide.caranddriver.com/mercedes-benz/e-class/2012/mercedes-benz-e-class-cabriolet/specs#features Video of 2012 Mercedes Benz E-350 Cabriolet: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nWahTo7cKD4	Steel