2007 Chevrolet Uplander Review

The 2007 Chevrolet Uplander LS carries an MSRP of $20,895 with the LT at $28,095, and the LT Entertainer at $33,740. The LS is available with a regular or extended wheelbase while all other models are extended.

The LS and 1LT models accommodate seven passengers with front-row bucket seats, second-row removable modular bucket seats, though captains chairs are an optional upgrad, and a third-row 50/50 split-folding bench. The 2LT and the Entertainer also accommodate seven with the same configuration but the second row seats are non-removable captain's chairs. The 1LT has a second row single built-in child seat and all models feature the LATCH system for child safety seats. The "Sit-N-Lift" power seat for passengers who need assistance is an option on the 2LT and on the Entertainer.

Sliding side doors with tamper-proof locks are standard across the line with power doors on the LT models. The 2LT and the Entertainer have parking assistance technology standard, while it's an optional feature on the 1LT. A 3.9 liter V6 engine is standard across the line with a 3.9 liter V6 with the capability to use either optional on the LS extended wheelbase and the 1 and 2LTs. All models have four-speed, electronically controlled automatic transmissions with overdrive.

While the maker bills the 2007 Chevrolet Uplander as a cross between a minivan and an SUV, it is the minivan features that make it a practical option

2007 Chevrolet TrailBlazer Review

The 2007 Chevrolet Trailblazer models (LS - $25,780, LT - $28,705, and SS - $32,055) continue to uphold the model's reputation for quality horsepower, towing ability, cabin comfort, and amenity selection.

The Trailblazer is outfitted with a 4.2 liter I-6 (291 hp at 6,000 rpms) on the LS and LT. (The 5.3 liter V8 with 300 hp at 5,200 rpms is optional.) The 1SS and 3SS have an LS2 6 liter V8 (395 hp at 6,000 rpms.) The base payload for the 2WD on the LS and LT is 1,194 lbs.; 1,227 lbs. on the LS and LT 4 x 4s; 1,505 for the 2WD SS and 1,338 for the AWD SS.

The 2WD 4.2 liter engine returns 16 mpg city, 22 highway with the 4WD reporting 15/21. (The EPA estimates are identical for the 5.3 liter engine.) The LS2 6 liter V8 shows 15 mpg city for the SS 2WD and 19 highway with the 4WD registering 14/17.

Front occupants in the 2007 Chevrolet Trailblazer enjoy full air bag protection, a standard feature across the line, with bags in the curtain position for side collision protection optiona. Additional included safety and security features include the OnStar, theft protection via the PASSlock system, and LATCH anchors for use with child car seats. Buyers who opt for the Quiet Package get a windshiled laminated in acoustic material as well as insulation installed in key positions to achieve better sound dampening. The stadard audio unit is a combo AM/FM/CD with XM Satellite Radio. An option for a rear-mounted DVD-based entertainment system is available.

2007 Chevrolet Tahoe Review

The 2007 Chevrolet Tahoe line of sports utility vehicles opens at $34,755 with the LS followed by the LT at $36,525, and the LTZ at $45,385. With room for five to nine passengers and multiple ways to arrange the cargo area depending on the number of seats installed (16.9 cubic feet through 108.9 cubic feet), the Tahoe offers both comfort and a more than respectable work ethic.

The LS comes standard with a 4.8 liter V8 engine (in 2WD only) with an option for a 5.3 liter, which is the standard for the remainder of the line. All models can also be outfitted with a 5.3 liter V8 with active technolgoy for fuel management and E85 fuel capability. Estimated fuel usage in the 4.8 liter is 15 city, 20 highway. The 5.3 liter 2WD returns 16/22 with the 4x4 showing 15/21.

All models come equipped with complete air bag protection for the driver and front passenger with bags in the curtain position at the outboard positions for all rows. (A sensor to detech roll overs is an option on the LS, LT1 and LT2 and standard in the LT3 and LTZ.) The Tahoes feature the LATCH system used to secure car seats for children. OnStar is an option and you can also outfit the Tahoe with a camera providing an active view of the rear of the vehicle on the LT2, LT3, and LTZ.

Beyond the expected stereo combo with MP3 capability, the 2007 Chevrolet Tahoe include a DVD system on all models above the LS. The unit includes a remote control with a display mounted overhead. Games units can be plugged into the system, which uses wireless headphones. (There's a mute button on the overhead display for parental sanity.)

2007 Chevrolet Suburban Review

The 2007 Chevrolet Suburban comes in five basic flavors: the half-ton LS ($37,760), the half-ton LT ($38,535), the half-ton LTZ ($47,035), the three-quarter ton LS ($38,945), and the three-quarter ton LT ($39,705.) Seating capacity in all models is 6 to 9.

The half-ton models are outfitted with a 31 gallon gas tank, the three-quarter tons with 39. Payload limits for the half-tons is 1,593 lbs. for the 2WD and 1,657 for the 4x4. The three-quarter ton 2WD can handle a payload of 2,561 while the 4x4 jumps to 2,657.

With a 5.3 liter V8 under the hood, the half-tons are estimated to get 15 miles per gallon in the city for the 2WD and 21 highway while the 4 x 4 returns 15/20. Jumping to a 6 liter V8, the half tons return 14/19 for 2WD and 14/18 for the 4 x 4. (The 5.3 liter is standard across all models with an E85 version of the same engine and the 6 liter V8 optional.) A four-speed transmission with overdrive is standard on the half-tons, while the three-quarter ton models carry the heavy-duty version of the same transmission. Both have a tow and haul mode.

The driver and occupants of the 2007 Chevrolet Suburban are protected by two-stage air bags with additional bags for the head position on the side as a standard feature in LT3 and LTZ (optional on other models.)

2007 Chevrolet Silverado Classic Hybrid Review

Offered in a 1LT and 2LT version, the 2007 Chevrolet Silverado Hybrid is available in limited numbers throughout the United States.

Both versions of the hybrid Silverado come with a Vortec 5.3 liter V8 engine and a 20-amp 2400 watt power generator on board. Front wheel drive is standard, but both can be upgraded to four-wheel drive.

Aside from the engine, the hybrid Silverado is essentially the same as the Silverado classic. Standard features on both versions of the truck include power windows and door locks and power-adjustable mirrors, On-Star capability, and a rear-view mirror with auto-dimming functionality. In addition, the 2LT also comes standard with front bucket seats (the driver's seat is has eight positions and is power-adjustable) while the 1LT has a front bench with a 40/20/40 split. Also, while cruise control is standard on the both models, only the 2LT comes with dual-zone temperature control, though it is an optional upgrade on the 1LT.

The hybrid Silverado is still a pickup truck, so safety features are limited. There are airbags for the front seat, and the seats are equipped with a LATCH system. Both the 1LT and 2LT also come with an alarm system.

Even pickup trucks have to have music, and the 2007 Chevrolet Silverado hybrid is no exception. Both models come standard with an AM/FM radio and CD player, and both are upgradeable to a Bose system with a 6-disc changer as well.

2007 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 2WD Review

The half-ton 2007 Chevolet Silverado starts at $18,760 with the 2500HD carrying a suggested price of $24,575, and the 3500HD $28,785. Motor Trend named the Silverado its Truck of the Year for 2007 and the model also walked away with the 2007 North American Truck of the Year award.

The regular cab with a standard box seats 3 and is offered in both 2WD and as a 4x4 with respective payload handling of of 1,952 and 1,713 lbs. By comparison, the crew cab with a short box seats 6 (also comes as a 2WD and 4x4) and handles payloads in a range of 2,000+ pounds.

The 1500 WT model is powered by a 4.3-liter V6, the 1LT by a 4.8-liter V8, and the 2LT and LTZ by a 5.3-liter V8 with an iron block. The 2500HD and 2500HD models have a 6-liter V8 with an optional 6.6-liter diesel engine.

Occupants in the 1500 models are outfitted with a complete array of air bags and a sensing system for passenger. The 2500HD and 3500HD models have front air bags while the LT and LTZ can be equipped with bags in the front and rear "curtain" and side positions.

The 2007 Chevrolet Silverado line is has a wide range of customization options for the interior including audio packages and options in the crew cab models for DVD entertainment units.

2007 Chevrolet Monte Carlo Review

The 2007 Chevrolet Monte Carlo comes in three models, the LS ($21,630), LT ($23,240), and SS ($28,355.) The LS and LT are powered by a 3.5 liter V6 that is both gasoline and E85 compatible. The SS has a 5.3 liter V8 (small block). All models offer an optional heater for the engine block.

The LS and LT have a four-speed automatic transmission with the SS featuring a heavier version of the same transmission. Both have overdrive controlled electronically. All Monte Carlos have all-wheel brakes (disc) with the LT and SS employing ABC and traction control.

The driver, front, and rear passengers are thoroughly protected by the included airbag system comprised of the standard two-stage front bags as well as side bags mounted in the seats. Other standard amenities include OnStar, access to the vehicle via a remote, and the PASS-Key III designed to deter potential car thieves.

The 2007 Chevrolet Monte Carlo LS has a CD player while the LT and SS jump to a CD/MP3 combo with an option for a changer in the dash capable of handling six discs. All models have six-speakers with eight optional on the LT and SS. An auxiliary jack for external audio input is also included. XM Satellite Radio is standard on the SS and optional on the LT.

2007 Chevrolet Malibu Review

The 2007 Chevrolet Malibu is a four-door sedan starting at $17,805 while the five-door Malibu Maxx begins at $21,225. There are six models across the Malibu line -- the LS, LT, LTZ, SS, Maxx LT, Maxx LTZ, and Maxx SS.

All have lamps for daytime use with foglamps standard on the LTZ, SS, Maxx LTZ, and Maxx SS. The LS and LT use disc brakes on the front wheels and drums to the rear while the other models are equipped with all-wheel disc brakes that employ both anti-locking and traction control technology.

The LS and LT are outfitted with a 2.2 liter, 16-valve, 4-cylinder engine. The LTZ, Maxx LT, and Maxx LTZ have a 3.5 liter V6 while the SS and Maxx SS feature a 3.9 liter V6. Any of the Malibus can be equipped with a heater for the engine block.

The LS, LT, LTZ, Maxx LT and Maxx LTZ come standard with a four-speed automatic transmittion while the SS and Maxx SS have a four-speed automatic with overdrive and sport shifting.

The standard sound system on the 2007 Chevrolet Malibu LS is a combo unit playing to four speakers. All other models include a six-speaker systems with automatic volume and Theftlock protection. Satellite Radio is an option on all models except the LS.

2008 Chevrolet Impala Review

2008 Chevrolet Impala

The Chevrolet Impala was originally introduced as a premium trim level with a sporty, upscale attitude in 1958. Since then, it has gone through a series of extinctions and reincarnations. Today, the 2008 Chevrolet Impala retains some of its original upmarket flare while providing a sensible rendering of the large family sedan. Now available in LS, LT, 2LT, LTZ, and SS trim levels, the 2008 Impala is powered by either a 3.5 Liter V6, a 3.9 Liter V6, or a 5.3 Liter V8 engine with a standard 4-speed transmission.

With a front bench seat, up to 6 passengers can pile into the Impala, which offers standard 4-wheel independent suspension for a smooth, touring car ride. In addition, the new Impala is equipped with 4-wheel power discs, for safe stopping. In its interior, the Impala stands up to the finer near-luxury sedans with wood-like texturing on the door panels and elsewhere, controls for the sound system at your fingertips, child-proof locks on the rear doors, and sufficient power-assisted features, like door locks, and trunk release, to make driving less of an effort. Comfort is yours in the new Impala due to its rich cloth seats, supportive seats, and air conditioning.

Chevrolet has an unrelenting attitude toward safety and 2008 is a banner year to proclaim that the Impala has earned the coveted five-star frontal crash test rating. In addition, experience the sure-footed control you get with all-speed traction control, reducing the risk of spinouts and loss of traction on acceleration. As expected, you are safe and sound in the protective envelope of driver and front passenger frontal collision airbags, and rear passenger side impact curtain airbags. No Impala would be complete without an outstanding acoustic environment, produced by an AM/FM stereo with 6 speakers, a CD player, and MP3 player.

You can order your 2008 Chevrolet Impala SS with Metallic paint covered side moldings, front air dam, and halogen headlights, to light up the side show. The ride and steering of the 2008 Impala is smooth and deliberate, with 18 mpg city, 28 mpg highway, the Impala should be your choice for family transportation.

2007 Chevrolet HHR Review

The 2007 Chevrolet HHR is a four-door sport utility vehicle available with a four-speed automatic or five-speed manual transmission in three models, the LS, 1LT, and 2LT ranging from $16,550 to $19,350.

The LS and 1LT have a 2.2 four-cylinder engine with the 2LT jumping to a 2.4 liter unit. Standard brakes on the LS and 1LT are discs on the front wheels with drums to the rear. The 2LT uses all wheel anti-lock brakes with the same disc and drum configuration.

The driver, front passenger, and all occupants are protected by a complete system of airbags including those in the "curtain" position as well as side bags for the outboard seats. Standard features include air conditioning, a defogger for the back window, the industry standard LATCH system for securing child seats, dual auxiliary power outlets, remote entry without a key, three roomy bins for storage, and anti-theft security embodied in the Pass-Key III+ system. (OnStar is optional on all models.)

The 2007 Chevrolet HHR LS features an AM/FM/CD combo with an input jack for auxiliary devices. The 1 and 2LTs have a similar unit that includes MP3 capability. The LS and 1LT have six-speakers, the 2LT has seven. (XM Radio is optional on all three.)

2007 Chevrolet Express Review

The 2007 Chevrolet Express vans include the Passenger LS and LT, as well as a Conversion, Work, and Cutaway models. The Passenger vans are available in 1500, 1500 AWD, 3500 and 3500 EXT models. The Work van is available in 1500, 1500 AWD, 2500HD, 2500HD EXT, 3500 and 3500HD EXT models. Conversion vans are 1500, 1500 AWD, 2500HD, and 2500HD EXT. Cutaway vans include the 3500 139-inch, 159-inch, and 177-inch wheelbases.

The Passenger LS and LT, Conversion and work vans are powered by a 5.3 liter V8 standard while the cutaway has a 4.8 liter. (The Duramax Diesel 6.6 liter V8 is optional on the Work and Cutaway vans and some 1500 vans can be outfitted with the Vortec FlexFuel E85 engine, which is a 5.3 liter V8.)

Seating capacities on these vans range from 8 in the passenger model to 12 to 15 in the 3500 extended wheelbase vehicles. The 1500 passenger van can handle a payload of up to 1,905 lbs. while the work vans' capacities range from 2,306 to 3,958 lbs.

The towing limit for Express vans is a 4,000 lb. trailer with a tongue weight of 400 lbs. For larger loads a special hitch to distribute the weight is required.

All vans in the 2007 Chevrolet Express line are equipped with a comprehensive airbag system to protect the driver and passenger and guard against theft via the PASSlock system.

2007 Chevrolet Equinox Review

The 2007 Chevrolet Equinox starts at $22,795 MSRP with the LT priced at $23,585. In 2006 both AAA and Parents Magazine chose the Equinox as one of the top family cars in America. The newer models follow in those tire tracks, racking up five-star government ratings for front and side impact collisions.

Thanks to a seating system Chevrolet dubs "Multi-Flex," both leg-room and cargo space are maximized in the Equinox, which comfortably carries five. All models come equipped with a 3.4 liter V6 producing 185 horsepower (available in FWD and AWD). All-wheel disc brakes with antilocking technology, stablity control, and a five-speed automatic transmission appear as standard features throughout the Equinox line.

Occupants in the front seat are portected by dual-level air bags with the 3LT adding a more comprehensive package including bags in the curtain and side positions. (These additional bags can also be added to lower models.)

The center console of the 2007 Chevrolet Equinox resists water and offers excellent storage away from prying eyes. There are five drink holders in each model and child safety seats are secured in place with the LATCH system. Two power outlets round out the range of features and OnStar, a standard element on the 3LT, can be added to all models. The 1LS has a standard combo audio system but does include an auxiliary jack. In the higher models drivers pick up MP3 capability with the CD player. XM Satellite Radio is optional on the LT models.

2007 Chevrolet Corvette Review

The 2007 Chevrolet Corvette is an American legend, the descendent of the first sports car produced in this country and a worthy descendent at that. With the trademark Corvette powerhouse engine and a better price tag than other cars in the prestige class, the Corvette remains a coveted winner on all levels.

For an MSRP of $44,170 you can put yourself behind the wheel of a two-door Corvette coupe powered by a six liter, sixteen valve V8. The same engine drives the convertible at a price of $52,510. The Z06 two-door coupe moves up to a seven liter, sixteen valve V8 and goes for $69,175. Each of these vehicles is equipped with RWD.

A six-speed transmission is standard across the line. The coupe and the convertible have painted aluminum wheels with five spokes measuring 18" x 8.5" in the front and 19" x 10" to the rear. Look for ten-spoke aluminum on the Z06 at 18" x 9.5" front and 19" x 10" rear. Your other wheel options are five spokes in a range of finished aluminum including polished, chrome, or competition gray.

Engineers considered visibility in all driving conditions, outfitting the 2007 Chevolet Corvettes with fog lamps with halogen bulbs and running lamps for daytime use. Both the driver and the passenger are fully covered by airbag protection. Other standard features include air, a console for storage, cruise control, defoggers on the rear windows, access via a remote, and a start button. Both Bose audio and XM Satellite radio are optional over the included seven-speaker AM/FM combo with CD/MP3 capability.

2007 Chevrolet Colorado 2WD Review

The regular cab 2007 Chevrolet Colorado starts at $14,595 with the extended cab selling for $16,995 and the crew cab $20,995. The regular cab 1LS and 1LT have a 2.9-liter I-4 engine while the extended cabs (2LT and 3LT) are outfitted with a 3.7 liter I-5. (All have a 19-gallon fuel tank.)

The following transmissions are offered on the 2.9 liter engines: 2WD with 5-speed manual (regular and extended cab), 4x4 with 5-speed manual (regular and extended cab), 2WD with 4-speed automatic, and 4x4 with 4-speed automatic. Options for the 3.7 liter are a 2WD with 4-speed automatic (regular and extended), 4x4 with 4 speed automatic (regular and extended), 2WD with 4-speed automatic (crew cab), and 4x4 with 4-speed automatic (crew cab).

The standard Z85 suspension is present in all models with trucks above the 1LS adding an option for the Sport of Z71 suspension. Throughout the 2007 Chevolet Colorado line you'll find a full compliment of air bags in place with options for additional head and side coverage. Child seats are secured in place with the industry-standard LATCH method. Each Colorado cabin offers two power outlets, steering wheels that tilt, and PASSLock systems to deter thieves. The 1LS has an AM/FM unit only while higher models jump to a CD/MP3 arrangement. The 1, 2, and 3LT can be outfitted with XM Satellite Radio.

2007 Chevrolet Cobalt Review

The 2007 Chevrolet Cobalt series of compact sedans and coupes (LS, LT, and SS models) have a MSRP ranging from $13,125 to $20,925. The Cobalts are outfitted with four cylinder engines and 148 horsepower with the SS jumping to 173 hp and the SS Supercharged to 205 hp.

Although the Cobalt is available in manual or automatic transmission, the LTZ trim package (which is quite similiar to the look of the SS Supercharged) offers 4-speed automatic only and the SS Supercharged 5-speed manual only. Comprehensive front seat airbag protection for both occupants is a standard features as are supplemental bags in the curtain and side positions.

Cloth buckets are standard on the LS with the LT and SS having "sport" cloth. Leather can be selected on the 2 and 3LT and on the SS. Across the line rear seating is a bench with the traditional 60/40 split configuration.

The LS offers a CD player while all other models have a CD/MP3 player combo. Starting with the 2LT and continuing through the rest of the line XM Satellite radio is standard. All models have an auxiliary audio input jack.

Overall the 2007 Chevrolet Cobalt offers a degree of refinement unusual in a compact with handling excellence and even ride characteristics. The SS, however, breaks that refinement to deliver a pleasing sound that can only be termed "sporty."

2007 Chevrolet Aveo5 Review

The 2007 Chevrolet Aveo5 has a nice package of stats, racking up 26 mpg city and around 34 out on the road. It all depends on whether you opt for an automatic with fours speed or a manual with five. (Both have overdrive.) Under the hood, there's a 1.6 liter I4 producing 103 horsepower, plenty impressive for a sedan of this size ("entry level" is the new euphemism for sub-compact.)

Having said that, the 2007 Aveo picks up a little room over the 2006 and adds some nice touches like chrome on the door handles and seats that aren't leather, but look darned close. (The technical term is "leatherette.") You'll get an input jack for your iPod and enjoy the protection of airbags on the side if you're grooving to your tunes and don't see the other guy coming.

General Motors rolled this one out to go head-to-head with vehicles like the Scion xA, Kia Rio, and Hyundai Accent -- and it does a more than commendable job. Expect to drop between $9,995 and $11,860 depending on how you trick out your 2007 Chevrolet Aveo5. At any level, however, you'll be getting a robust little performer with crisp Chevy styling and excellent handling performance.

2008 Chevrolet Avalanche Review

The 2008 Chevrolet Avalanche does double-duty as a crew hauler and a cargo hauler, with its seating for five and a large pickup bed. Avalanche comes as a 2-wheel drive or a 4-wheel, and in LS, LT and LTZ trim levels. All models come with a 310 or 320hp 5.3L V8 engine with a 6.0L V8 engine optional. A 4-speed automatic transmission with overdrive and an added hauling ratio is standard. Of note is the Active Fuel Management feature on some models which drops the work load from the eight-cylinder configuration down to a four-cylinder firing arrangement to save fuel.

The interior of the 2008 Avalanche is made more livable with dual-zone climate control, loads of cup-holders, overhead map lights, and storage. A practical but not unique feature of the Avalanche is that the rear seats fold flat and allow the bed to extend several feet further forward, through a Midgate partition. Monitoring the operating parameters of the engine is easy due to the full bank of instruments, including speedometer, tachometer, oil pressure, engine temp, and ammeter. Need power for your equipment? Well Avalanche has you covered with 4 12-volt auxiliary outlets.

Safety is no stranger to the 2008 Avalanche with driver and front passenger airbags, rear passenger side-impact airbags, and rollover sensor. 2008 Chevrolet Avalanche offers an offroad styling option that includes special wheel well flares plus other appearance and performance-enhancing features. All the mirrors on the new 2008 Avalanche are fold-away and configured for maximum visibility.

Not ignoring the environment as an issue that needs to be addressed, the 2008 Chevrolet Avalanche offers E85 FlexFuel capable models that reduce our dependence on foreign oil. Worthy of reiteration is the impact that Avalanche's Active Fuel Management system will have on fuel consumption. No other vehicle is as versatile, environmentally protective, and practical as the 2008 Avalanche, while getting the job done in style.

2008 Chevrolet Aveo Review

With an impressive crash test rating and connectivity for your iPod, the 2008 Chevrolet Aveo is a compact family car that gets you to your destination safely, and with style. Holding up to five passengers, the new Aveo comes in LT and LS trims and is powered by a 1.6L 4-cylinder engine that produces 103hp. Whether you choose a standard 5-speed manual transmission or the optional 4-speed automatic, the Aveo is road-worthy on city streets and highway.

Once inside the cabin of the 2008 Aveo you are immediately struck by its apparent roominess and comfortable seating. Whether you opt for the standard cloth seats in neutral or charcoal color, or the cushy leatherette, your headrests are adjustable and the back seat splits 60/40 to fold down. The front seats are buckets that cushion you against horizontal g-forces as you take those curves in the mountains. Instrumentation includes a tachometer and cruise control, while the audio system sports six speakers and a full seek and scan AM/FM radio.

To back up that impressive crash rating, the 2008 Chevrolet Aveo protects its occupants with driver and front passenger airbags and ample crumple zones to minimize intrusion into the passenger compartment in the event of a collision. Children in the rear seats are protected from accidentally exiting the vehicle with child-proof door locks. Side guard door beams are included to reduce injury in the event of a side-impact collision.

With its 103hp engine, the 2008 Chevrolet Aveo achieves highway speeds in a hurry and has the torque to pass with vigor. The new Aveo can be purchased in White, Black, Blue, Silver, Red, Orange, or Yellow. Promising to be the family car for years to come, the 2008 Chevrolet Aveo is built strong, and safely equipped to last years no matter how you drive it.