2012 Chevrolet Silverado 1500

The Chevrolet Silverado lineup spans a huge swath of the full-size pickup market, from sport trucks to hybrids to heavy-duty models. For 2012, it hasn't changed much, but it still stacks up well against newer trucks like the Ford F-150, Ram 1500, and its close kith and kin, the GMC Sierra 1500.

Chevy's full-size trucks come in a form to suit nearly every possible kind of truck user, from exurban hipsters to urban construction crew chieftans. Shoppers can opt into one of three body styles, and one of two interior designs; from among four gas engines and two automatic transmissions, or one gas-electric drivetrain; and from bed lengths ranging from the smallest 5'-8" bed on Crew Cabs and Hybrids, to the 6-6" bed on all versions save for the Hybrid, to the 8' bed offered on all versions except the Hybrid.

The Silverado's styling remains safe and a little plain, when compared to the Ram or Toyota trucks. It's one of the oldest designs on the block and it shows in its less obvious looks. That's not to say it's not handsome--Chevy's trucks have a way of looking good for decades and we suspect today's Silverado is on its way to the same distinction. The interior's unique in that it comes either with a console and more upscale trim, or as a more basic design without the console and without the woodgrain trim, both handsome and organized thoughtfully. No matter how you cut across the lineup, the Silverado look seems to be aging well.

No longer economy or horsepower leaders, the drivetrains offered in the Silverado still are competitive after a few years on the market. The range of engines includes a 195-horsepower, 4.3-liter V-6 that we'd only recommend to fleet buyers. Among the V-8s, there's a flex-fuel, 302-hp 4.8-liter V-8 in some of the less expensive models; a flex-fuel 5.3-liter V-8 with 315 hp in more mainstream versions, and outfitted with cylinder deactivation for improved fuel economy in XFE models; and at the top of the range, a 6.2-liter, 403-hp, flex-fuel V-8 in the Silverado LTZ. A four-speed automatic is fitted to base V-6 and base V-8 versions, while all other models except for the hybrid have a six-speed automatic that shifts smoothly and quietly, and helps keep those gas-mileage numbers in the ballpark of Ford's higher-mpg lineup. The 5.3-liter is our choice of the gas-only Silverados: it has ample power for almost every need, and comes with only a slight gas-mileage penalty over the basic V-6.

The Silverado Hybrid is quite different from the stock-and-trade Chevy truck, thanks to a two-mode hybrid powertrain that pairs an aluminum-alloy 6.0-liter V-8 with cylinder deactivation and variable valve timing, to an electrically variable transmission (EVT) with four fixed-ratio gears and two electric motor/generators, as well as a nickel-metal-hydride 300-volt battery pack. All together, these pieces combine to produce 332 horsepower and 367 pound-feet of torque, to a net EPA gas-mileage rating of 20 mpg city, 23 mpg highway. The Hybrid's performance isn't radically different from the gas-engined versions, save for the for the exceptionally smooth and quiet operation of the hybrid drivetrain, which runs on electricity alone up to 27 mph. Regenerative braking helps recapture some energy to charge the batteries. Despite its extra heft, the Silverado Hybrid can tow 6,100 pounds with 2WD, or 5,900 pounds with automatic dual-range four-wheel drive.

Across the lineup, the Silverado has some of the best straight-line performance in the class, though the pack has gotten significantly more competitive with Ford's new 5.0-liter V-8 and Toyota's improved V-8s. The Silverado maxes out at 10,700 pounds of towing capacity--and yet, it's still one of the easiest full-size pickups to drive, thanks to communicative steering and good to fair ride quality, which gets noticeably stiffer with four-wheel-drive models.

The Silverado's cabin doesn't meet the flexible Ram 1500 head-on with nifty features, and its cabin has some foibles that you won't find in the F-150 or Tundra, either. Front space is ample, and though the bucket seats could be more supportive for longer trips, we'd still opt for them over the flat front bench for personal use. On Crew Cab Silverados, the rear seat is placed high, stadium-style, and is split 60/40 so it can be folded down for more carrying space, but the rear seatback is nearly vertical, making it uncomfortable for longer trips. The rear access doors on extended-cab models open 170 degrees, for easier loading of small items like a toolbox or a properly folded tent. Throughout the Silverado range, a hushed and refined cabin is standard, with less wind noise and tighter build quality than some of the other full-size trucks in the class.

The Silverado's chief selling point still is its flexible order sheet. With its perennial appeal to work users, the Silverado comes in a staggering array of configurations and build combinations. Stripped-down work versions sticker in the low-$20,000 range, while loaded Hybrid models are priced near $50,000. Standard equipment even includes cruise control, while the options list counts leather upholstery, a new hard-drive navigation system, Bluetooth and USB connections for cell phones, and GM's OnStar telematics system, for everything from directions to emergency services.

2012 Chevrolet Silverado 1500

The Chevrolet Silverado lineup spans a huge swath of the full-size pickup market, from sport trucks to hybrids to heavy-duty models. For 2012, it hasn't changed much, but it still stacks up well against newer trucks like the Ford F-150, Ram 1500, and its close kith and kin, the GMC Sierra 1500.

Chevy's full-size trucks come in a form to suit nearly every possible kind of truck user, from exurban hipsters to urban construction crew chieftans. Shoppers can opt into one of three body styles, and one of two interior designs; from among four gas engines and two automatic transmissions, or one gas-electric drivetrain; and from bed lengths ranging from the smallest 5'-8" bed on Crew Cabs and Hybrids, to the 6-6" bed on all versions save for the Hybrid, to the 8' bed offered on all versions except the Hybrid.

The Silverado's styling remains safe and a little plain, when compared to the Ram or Toyota trucks. It's one of the oldest designs on the block and it shows in its less obvious looks. That's not to say it's not handsome--Chevy's trucks have a way of looking good for decades and we suspect today's Silverado is on its way to the same distinction. The interior's unique in that it comes either with a console and more upscale trim, or as a more basic design without the console and without the woodgrain trim, both handsome and organized thoughtfully. No matter how you cut across the lineup, the Silverado look seems to be aging well.

No longer economy or horsepower leaders, the drivetrains offered in the Silverado still are competitive after a few years on the market. The range of engines includes a 195-horsepower, 4.3-liter V-6 that we'd only recommend to fleet buyers. Among the V-8s, there's a flex-fuel, 302-hp 4.8-liter V-8 in some of the less expensive models; a flex-fuel 5.3-liter V-8 with 315 hp in more mainstream versions, and outfitted with cylinder deactivation for improved fuel economy in XFE models; and at the top of the range, a 6.2-liter, 403-hp, flex-fuel V-8 in the Silverado LTZ. A four-speed automatic is fitted to base V-6 and base V-8 versions, while all other models except for the hybrid have a six-speed automatic that shifts smoothly and quietly, and helps keep those gas-mileage numbers in the ballpark of Ford's higher-mpg lineup. The 5.3-liter is our choice of the gas-only Silverados: it has ample power for almost every need, and comes with only a slight gas-mileage penalty over the basic V-6.

The Silverado Hybrid is quite different from the stock-and-trade Chevy truck, thanks to a two-mode hybrid powertrain that pairs an aluminum-alloy 6.0-liter V-8 with cylinder deactivation and variable valve timing, to an electrically variable transmission (EVT) with four fixed-ratio gears and two electric motor/generators, as well as a nickel-metal-hydride 300-volt battery pack. All together, these pieces combine to produce 332 horsepower and 367 pound-feet of torque, to a net EPA gas-mileage rating of 20 mpg city, 23 mpg highway. The Hybrid's performance isn't radically different from the gas-engined versions, save for the for the exceptionally smooth and quiet operation of the hybrid drivetrain, which runs on electricity alone up to 27 mph. Regenerative braking helps recapture some energy to charge the batteries. Despite its extra heft, the Silverado Hybrid can tow 6,100 pounds with 2WD, or 5,900 pounds with automatic dual-range four-wheel drive.

Across the lineup, the Silverado has some of the best straight-line performance in the class, though the pack has gotten significantly more competitive with Ford's new 5.0-liter V-8 and Toyota's improved V-8s. The Silverado maxes out at 10,700 pounds of towing capacity--and yet, it's still one of the easiest full-size pickups to drive, thanks to communicative steering and good to fair ride quality, which gets noticeably stiffer with four-wheel-drive models.

The Silverado's cabin doesn't meet the flexible Ram 1500 head-on with nifty features, and its cabin has some foibles that you won't find in the F-150 or Tundra, either. Front space is ample, and though the bucket seats could be more supportive for longer trips, we'd still opt for them over the flat front bench for personal use. On Crew Cab Silverados, the rear seat is placed high, stadium-style, and is split 60/40 so it can be folded down for more carrying space, but the rear seatback is nearly vertical, making it uncomfortable for longer trips. The rear access doors on extended-cab models open 170 degrees, for easier loading of small items like a toolbox or a properly folded tent. Throughout the Silverado range, a hushed and refined cabin is standard, with less wind noise and tighter build quality than some of the other full-size trucks in the class.

The Silverado's chief selling point still is its flexible order sheet. With its perennial appeal to work users, the Silverado comes in a staggering array of configurations and build combinations. Stripped-down work versions sticker in the low-$20,000 range, while loaded Hybrid models are priced near $50,000. Standard equipment even includes cruise control, while the options list counts leather upholstery, a new hard-drive navigation system, Bluetooth and USB connections for cell phones, and GM's OnStar telematics system, for everything from directions to emergency services.

2012 Chevrolet Malibu

It's one of GM's best-executed products of the past few years, and even in its final year on sale, the 2012 Chevy Malibu still ranks highly for its spacious cabin, smooth performance and handsome silhouette.See What the
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GM introduced the current Chevy Malibu in 2008, and since then, the big family sedan hasn't changed much. It hasn't had to: the Malibu emerged as one of GM's best-executed products in a long time, and with just minor updates, it's more than held its own against new generations of the Accord, Camry, Altima, Sonata, Optima and Fusion. Just ahead of a new, smaller sedan arriving next model year, the 2012 Malibu remains an affordable, high-quality, and very refined four-door.

It may not be daring, but the Malibu has a nicely underplayed look that's handsome, inside and out. Clean-cut might be the best way to describe the sheetmetal. The split grille and blunt nose have a smooth, clean look that trails down the doors to a semi-stubby rear end with taillights highlighted by round lamps, like those found on the Corvette. The takeaway is subtle, clean--still a refreshing change from some of the more dramatic, overwrought shapes on the market today, maybe better even than the replacement coming next year. The cabin's sedate and attractive, too, with a straightforward layout of controls, efficient design, and quite a good level of material quality and fit and finish. In that way, this Malibu was the sign of change at GM from the drab car that preceded it.

The Malibu still comes in four- and six-cylinder form, while smaller family sedans have moved to all-four-cylinder lineups. Here, the base powerplant is fairly competitive: it's a 2.4-liter four-cylinder teamed to a six-speed automatic, for a total of 169 horsepower and an EPA gas-mileage rating of 22/33 mpg. That's competitive with the Fusion, but a few digits off the 35-mpg highway figures pegged by the Sonata and Optima. It's quick enough for most uses, and neatly avoids a rental-car feel with very smooth power delivery. GM's potent 3.6-liter V-6 remains an option; its 252 horsepower provide a lot of refinement and kick for more demanding drivers, but its fuel economy numbers of 17/26 mpg are unimpressive. Neither Malibu feels very sporty, in any case, with perfectly predictable ride and handling motions that veer sharply away from the likes of the crisp-steering Fusion and Altima. The Malibu clearly puts the bias on practicality and refinement, with just a hint of driving enjoyment.

Sports-car reflexes in family sedans matter less than big interior room and supportive seats, and those the Malibu has all over smaller rivals. It's spacious, and though the seats could use just a little more lateral support, the Malibu is one of the larger cars in its class, up there with the Sonata, just shy of the Honda Accord and the latest Volkswagen Passat. The front seats are among the most comfortable in the mid-size sedan class, while the back bench has more legroom than most of its rivals, except for the Accord and that huge new Passat. Trunk space is usefully large, at 15.1 cubic feet.

Safety is another strong suit of the current Malibu. All models have standard anti-lock disc brakes, stability and traction control, as well as dual front, side and curtain airbags. The OnStar telematics system is installed in each one. And crash-test scores put the Malibu near the top of the large sedan class, with a Top Safety Pick from the IIHS, and four stars overall from the NHTSA.

The Malibu's features list has fallen behind the competition, as it's aged. All versions--base LS, mid-range LT, and luxury LTZ--have standard power windows, locks and mirrors; keyless entry; steering-wheel audio controls; and climate control. On the LTZ, features like remote start, LED taillamps and ambient lighting are standard. Bluetooth's an option, though (it's standard on the Korean sedans), and the Malibu lacks any option for resident hard-drive navigation--GM suggests you call OnStar for turn-by-turn voice instructions, a method we've tried and found less reliable than on-board mapping.

Nicely underplayed lookPowertrains are smoothFour-cylinder's good fuel economy Refined ride qualityNavigation isn't on-boardEven V-6 lacks sporty feelV-6 gas mileage lags

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2012 Honda CR-V, Subaru BRZ, 2012 Chevrolet Sonic: Today's Car News

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Today at High Gear Media, we review the 2012 Ford F-150 and drive the 2012 Chevy Sonic. The 2012 Honda CR-V gets revealed on the Internet while Subaru releases images of the BRZ STI Concept. All this and more in today's car news, right here on The Car Connection.

The 2012 Honda CR-V has been revealed on the Internet before its official debut at the 2011 Los Angeles Auto Show.

Unfortunately the 2012 Honda CR-V may be delayed due to the flooding in Thailand.

Subaru releases images of the BRZ STI Concept which will be shown at the 2011 LA Auto Show.

After driving the 2012 Chevrolet Sonic 1.8-liter hatchback, we think you should get the 1.4-liter turbo.

The 2013 Hyundai Veloster Turbo has finally been confirmed for production.

Robocalls are coming to an OnStar vehicle near you.

Did you know your local auto dealers hate high-mileage cars?

Elon Musk says the Model S is sold out and Tesla will be profitable in 2013.

We review the 2012 Ford F-150 and love the new powertrains, but the ride is somewhat jiggly.

One in four U.S. car engines will stop when you do in 2015.

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2012 Chevrolet Tahoe

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The 2012 Chevrolet Tahoe is arguably a relic of another time, when gas was a bit cheaper and many more U.S. families looked to truck-based SUVs for everyday use. That time has passed—and there are a number of much better, more passenger-friendly crossover wagons like Chevrolet's own Traverse just for passenger duty. But the body-on-frame sport-utility vehicle is still relevant today if you need truck toughness or good tow ratings along with good passenger space. And to give the Tahoe an added touch of relevance for today's more fuel-economy-minded shoppers, there's the 2012 Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid, which has EPA ratings of up to 23 mpg.

With styling that's definitely dated, the 2012 Tahoe probably won't charm you over from a more contemporary design, but it's still handsome next to any of the competition. Inside, the Tahoe has a lower-set, more carlike instrument panel, with rounded edges and a less 'macho' look than rival models such as the Toyota Sequoia and Nissan Armada. In lower trims it can look a little plasticky, but move up to the LTZ and the look is decidedly premium. There's not much to distinguish the Tahoe Hybrid model, but it does have several subtle modifications that improve aerodynamics and reduce weight, along with a number of Hybrid badges and, inside, a different display screen.

A 320-horsepower, 5.3-liter V-8 and six-speed automatic transmission provide power for most of the Tahoe lineup. It's an excellent, seamless duo, with steady and smooth acceleration and a hint of muscle-car sound. Variable valve timing and cylinder deactivation help keep it smooth yet fuel-saving, plus it's E85 capable, which some shoppers in farm states might appreciate. Hybrids instead get a big 332-horsepower, 6.0-liter V-8 is augmented with electric motors and battery power, using a version of the Two-Mode Hybrid system developed by GM with BMW, Daimler and Chrysler. As such, the Tahoe Hybrid can accelerate lightly on battery power alone or mix both, saving significant miles from each gallon, and the system isn't delicate—it's approved for towing and typical weekend-truck use.

Built on GM's full-size SUV platform, with a fully boxed frame, coil-over-shock front suspension, and rack-and-pinion steering, the Chevy Tahoe shares its package as well as most running gear with the GMC Yukon and Cadillac Escalade. At its best, the Tahoe is as responsive as any 5,600-pound vehicle can be and feels much more maneuverable than it should. Base versions of the Tahoe don't quite ride as well as top-of-the-line Yukon and Escalade models with the magnetic suspension, however, so check those out if you're looking to splurge a little.

Simple and straightforward, yet supremely comfortable is the best way to describe the Tahoe's interior. Most Tahoe models come with large, supportive front bucket seats, and in both the first and second rows there's plenty of headroom and legroom. But getting back to the third row is a challenge, and even getting feet and knees past the thick B-pillar for the second row will be an issue for some. Suburban models get several more inches of third-row space, thanks to their added length, but access isn't all that much easier.

The Tahoe lives up to its impression of security and solidity, with excellent four- and five-star ratings from the federal government in frontal and side impact. The IIHS hasn't rated the Tahoe or the nearly identical Yukon. Side-curtain bags in the Tahoe cover all three rows.

Even the base Tahoe LS comes equipped like an entry-luxury model, and while the serious towing ability is there many Tahoes are used first and foremost as tough and secure yet comfortable transportation. LT and LTZ models add more features, with the top-of-the-line LTZ getting serious load-bearing upgrades like a heavy-duty locking differential, Autoride load-leveling suspension, and 20-inch wheels, in addition to an upgraded Bose Centerpoint audio system, a nav system with voice recognition, heated and cooled front seats, heated second-row seats, remote starting, and power-adjustable pedals. Bluetooth hands-free now comes in all models.

The Tahoe Hybrid gets many of the same features as the LT, and can be equipped with LTZ features as options.

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2012 Chevrolet Tahoe

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Rest of the Web Says We've gathered reviews from Edmunds.com, Cars.com plus live Tweets on this car. See What We Found »

The 2012 Chevrolet Tahoe is arguably a relic of another time, when gas was a bit cheaper and many more U.S. families looked to truck-based SUVs for everyday use. That time has passed—and there are a number of much better, more passenger-friendly crossover wagons like Chevrolet's own Traverse just for passenger duty. But the body-on-frame sport-utility vehicle is still relevant today if you need truck toughness or good tow ratings along with good passenger space. And to give the Tahoe an added touch of relevance for today's more fuel-economy-minded shoppers, there's the 2012 Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid, which has EPA ratings of up to 23 mpg.

With styling that's definitely dated, the 2012 Tahoe probably won't charm you over from a more contemporary design, but it's still handsome next to any of the competition. Inside, the Tahoe has a lower-set, more carlike instrument panel, with rounded edges and a less 'macho' look than rival models such as the Toyota Sequoia and Nissan Armada. In lower trims it can look a little plasticky, but move up to the LTZ and the look is decidedly premium. There's not much to distinguish the Tahoe Hybrid model, but it does have several subtle modifications that improve aerodynamics and reduce weight, along with a number of Hybrid badges and, inside, a different display screen.

A 320-horsepower, 5.3-liter V-8 and six-speed automatic transmission provide power for most of the Tahoe lineup. It's an excellent, seamless duo, with steady and smooth acceleration and a hint of muscle-car sound. Variable valve timing and cylinder deactivation help keep it smooth yet fuel-saving, plus it's E85 capable, which some shoppers in farm states might appreciate. Hybrids instead get a big 332-horsepower, 6.0-liter V-8 is augmented with electric motors and battery power, using a version of the Two-Mode Hybrid system developed by GM with BMW, Daimler and Chrysler. As such, the Tahoe Hybrid can accelerate lightly on battery power alone or mix both, saving significant miles from each gallon, and the system isn't delicate—it's approved for towing and typical weekend-truck use.

Built on GM's full-size SUV platform, with a fully boxed frame, coil-over-shock front suspension, and rack-and-pinion steering, the Chevy Tahoe shares its package as well as most running gear with the GMC Yukon and Cadillac Escalade. At its best, the Tahoe is as responsive as any 5,600-pound vehicle can be and feels much more maneuverable than it should. Base versions of the Tahoe don't quite ride as well as top-of-the-line Yukon and Escalade models with the magnetic suspension, however, so check those out if you're looking to splurge a little.

Simple and straightforward, yet supremely comfortable is the best way to describe the Tahoe's interior. Most Tahoe models come with large, supportive front bucket seats, and in both the first and second rows there's plenty of headroom and legroom. But getting back to the third row is a challenge, and even getting feet and knees past the thick B-pillar for the second row will be an issue for some. Suburban models get several more inches of third-row space, thanks to their added length, but access isn't all that much easier.

The Tahoe lives up to its impression of security and solidity, with excellent four- and five-star ratings from the federal government in frontal and side impact. The IIHS hasn't rated the Tahoe or the nearly identical Yukon. Side-curtain bags in the Tahoe cover all three rows.

Even the base Tahoe LS comes equipped like an entry-luxury model, and while the serious towing ability is there many Tahoes are used first and foremost as tough and secure yet comfortable transportation. LT and LTZ models add more features, with the top-of-the-line LTZ getting serious load-bearing upgrades like a heavy-duty locking differential, Autoride load-leveling suspension, and 20-inch wheels, in addition to an upgraded Bose Centerpoint audio system, a nav system with voice recognition, heated and cooled front seats, heated second-row seats, remote starting, and power-adjustable pedals. Bluetooth hands-free now comes in all models.

The Tahoe Hybrid gets many of the same features as the LT, and can be equipped with LTZ features as options.

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2012 Chevrolet Camaro

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Rest of the Web Says We've gathered reviews from Edmunds.com, Cars.com plus live Tweets on this car. See What We Found »

Back for its third model year since introduction in 2009, the 2012 Chevrolet Camaro retains its retro-themed yet modern take on the Camaro's heritage, with the addition of a hyper-powerful ZL1 variant in addition to the standard V-6 and SS models. Whether you choose the coupe or the convertible, the 2012 Camaro makes a strong style statement.

When the muscle car revival first struck with the return of the Camaro and Challenger, sales lit up like a wildfire--and haven't slowed much since. This year, the 3.6-liter V-6 variant once again gets a power increase from 312 to 323 horsepower, while the V-8 SS model holds steady at 426 horsepower. All new for 2012 is the Camaro ZL1, which adds a supercharger, more dramatic styling, more aggressive handling, and a total of 580 horsepower.

The aggressive, pure muscle-car look of the 2012 Chevrolet Camaro doesn't come without its downsides, however. The low, sleek roofline means a shortage of headroom for taller drivers, and the high beltline makes it hard to see out of the car for shorter ones. The back seat is suitable only for children, and the trunk, despite the car's overall size, is diminutive. Ride quality, however, is very good overall despite the sporting overtones, and the cabin is quiet.

Beyond the look and the shortfalls in functionality and comfort, however, the 2012 Camaro is great at its main focus: performance. The base model, powered by the up-rated V-6, is pretty peppy, but the 6.2-liter V-8-powered SS model really brings the chassis to life, particularly when paired with the six-speed manual transmission. The automatic is no slouch, however, offering slick shifts and solid acceleration as well--all models of the 2012 Camaro SS hit 60 mph in about 4.5 seconds. The real star performer for 2012 is the ZL1, with 580 horsepower from a supercharged 6.2-liter V-8, magnetic ride suspension, and even more fearsome looks. Steering is direct, and the handling is crisp for a car of this weight class.

Even though performance is clearly given top billing with the 2012 Chevy Camaro, the common threads of all modern cars are still strong here: safety and convenience features abound. Six standard airbags, including side-curtain airbags that extend to the back seat, anti-lock brakes, dynamic stability control, and traction control are found in every new Camaro. Crash test ratings are solid, though perhaps not segment-leading: the NHTSA rates the Camaro at five stars for rollover protection, but due to changes in the way it tests front and side impact ratings, hasn't yet scored the 2012 model on other measures. The IIHS hasn't tested the Camaro.

Features are also ample, with OnStar navigation available; Bluetooth, USB, and iPod connectivity as options, and a new head-up display like the one found in the Corvette that debuted last year.

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2012 Chevrolet Colorado

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Now that Chevrolet's announced a replacement to come in 2013, the Chevy Colorado pickup's fate is clear. This will be the final model year in its current form, and the compact truck will move from its assembly home in Louisiana to a plant in Missouri.

That leaves today's truck in lame-duck mode, with very few changes for the new model year other than adjustments to equipment offered on different trim levels.

A mechanical twin to the GMC Canyon, the Colorado is a dated pickup truck with fewer safety and entertainment features and body styles than some of the newer, mid-size pickups, like the Toyota Tacoma and Nissan Frontier.

In any of its three forms--regular cab, Extended Cab or Crew Cab--the Colorado isn't unattractive. It just lacks the presence that a larger truck can have, despite its tall, split Chevy grille and squared-off fenders. Extended Cab trucks have small rear-hinged doors, while Crew Cabs have four front-hinged doors. The interior's the real disappointment: it's slathered in hard, inexpensive plastic and in base form can look quite low-budget, thanks to a dash shape that's just as vintage. Without the Dodge Dakota and Ford Ranger around to pick on, the Colorado's left behind to take the brunt of all these complaints that honestly probably don't matter at all to its drivers.

Chevy offers a choice of three engines in the Colorado. A 185-horsepower, 2.9-liter four-cylinder is the base engine, and it's not very pleasant or very efficient, and it's not recommended unless you're buying these trucks in bulk for fleet use. The 3.7-liter five-cylinder, with 242 hp, may be worse, since it's supposed to be an upgrade. It sounds just as clunky and feels almost as slow as the in-line four.

It'll quaff gas like a big SUV, but the engine we recommend is GM's 300-hp, 5.3-liter V-8. It sounds like a lot to stuff into such a small truck, but they've made it fit--and it pushes the Colorado to 60 mph in less than 7.0 seconds, and gives it a towing capacity of 6000 pounds. 

The Colorado lineup comes with a variety of manual and automatic transmissions, and four-wheel drive is available across the lineup. Fuel economy ranges from 18/25 mpg in the manual-shift four-cylinders to 14/19 mpg in the V-8, 4WD trucks.

For utility, GM offers up two bed lengths in the Colorado. Most versions have a shorter bed that's just a little more than five feet long; Crew Cabs have a six-foot bed. Neither will carry the ubiquitous 4x8 sheet of plywood, which limits the utility of these trucks. Crew Cabs also have a nearly vertical rear seatback, which makes their utility as a five-passenger vehicle minimal.

Safety scores are mixed, to poor. The IIHS gives extended-cab Colorados a "good" score for front impacts, but Crew Cabs are rated "acceptable" for front impacts and "marginal" for side impacts. The NHTSA only ranks rollover potential, and there the Colorado earns three stars. Anti-lock brakes and stability control are standard.

Each Colorado gets standard air conditioning; tilt steering; folding exterior mirrors; and cruise control. On the options list are traction control; satellite radio; fog lamps; a CD changer; a sliding rear window; and leather seats.

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2012 Chevrolet Silverado 1500

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Rest of the Web Says We've gathered reviews from Edmunds.com, Cars.com plus live Tweets on this car. See What We Found »

The Chevrolet Silverado lineup spans a huge swath of the full-size pickup market, from sport trucks to hybrids to heavy-duty models. For 2012, it hasn't changed much, but it still stacks up well against newer trucks like the Ford F-150, Ram 1500, and its close kith and kin, the GMC Sierra 1500.

Chevy's full-size trucks come in a form to suit nearly every possible kind of truck user, from exurban hipsters to urban construction crew chieftans. Shoppers can opt into one of three body styles, and one of two interior designs; from among four gas engines and two automatic transmissions, or one gas-electric drivetrain; and from bed lengths ranging from the smallest 5'-8" bed on Crew Cabs and Hybrids, to the 6-6" bed on all versions save for the Hybrid, to the 8' bed offered on all versions except the Hybrid.

The Silverado's styling remains safe and a little plain, when compared to the Ram or Toyota trucks. It's one of the oldest designs on the block and it shows in its less obvious looks. That's not to say it's not handsome--Chevy's trucks have a way of looking good for decades and we suspect today's Silverado is on its way to the same distinction. The interior's unique in that it comes either with a console and more upscale trim, or as a more basic design without the console and without the woodgrain trim, both handsome and organized thoughtfully. No matter how you cut across the lineup, the Silverado look seems to be aging well.

No longer economy or horsepower leaders, the drivetrains offered in the Silverado still are competitive after a few years on the market. The range of engines includes a 195-horsepower, 4.3-liter V-6 that we'd only recommend to fleet buyers. Among the V-8s, there's a flex-fuel, 302-hp 4.8-liter V-8 in some of the less expensive models; a flex-fuel 5.3-liter V-8 with 315 hp in more mainstream versions, and outfitted with cylinder deactivation for improved fuel economy in XFE models; and at the top of the range, a 6.2-liter, 403-hp, flex-fuel V-8 in the Silverado LTZ. A four-speed automatic is fitted to base V-6 and base V-8 versions, while all other models except for the hybrid have a six-speed automatic that shifts smoothly and quietly, and helps keep those gas-mileage numbers in the ballpark of Ford's higher-mpg lineup. The 5.3-liter is our choice of the gas-only Silverados: it has ample power for almost every need, and comes with only a slight gas-mileage penalty over the basic V-6.

The Silverado Hybrid is quite different from the stock-and-trade Chevy truck, thanks to a two-mode hybrid powertrain that pairs an aluminum-alloy 6.0-liter V-8 with cylinder deactivation and variable valve timing, to an electrically variable transmission (EVT) with four fixed-ratio gears and two electric motor/generators, as well as a nickel-metal-hydride 300-volt battery pack. All together, these pieces combine to produce 332 horsepower and 367 pound-feet of torque, to a net EPA gas-mileage rating of 20 mpg city, 23 mpg highway. The Hybrid's performance isn't radically different from the gas-engined versions, save for the for the exceptionally smooth and quiet operation of the hybrid drivetrain, which runs on electricity alone up to 27 mph. Regenerative braking helps recapture some energy to charge the batteries. Despite its extra heft, the Silverado Hybrid can tow 6,100 pounds with 2WD, or 5,900 pounds with automatic dual-range four-wheel drive.

Across the lineup, the Silverado has some of the best straight-line performance in the class, though the pack has gotten significantly more competitive with Ford's new 5.0-liter V-8 and Toyota's improved V-8s. The Silverado maxes out at 10,700 pounds of towing capacity--and yet, it's still one of the easiest full-size pickups to drive, thanks to communicative steering and good to fair ride quality, which gets noticeably stiffer with four-wheel-drive models.

The Silverado's cabin doesn't meet the flexible Ram 1500 head-on with nifty features, and its cabin has some foibles that you won't find in the F-150 or Tundra, either. Front space is ample, and though the bucket seats could be more supportive for longer trips, we'd still opt for them over the flat front bench for personal use. On Crew Cab Silverados, the rear seat is placed high, stadium-style, and is split 60/40 so it can be folded down for more carrying space, but the rear seatback is nearly vertical, making it uncomfortable for longer trips. The rear access doors on extended-cab models open 170 degrees, for easier loading of small items like a toolbox or a properly folded tent. Throughout the Silverado range, a hushed and refined cabin is standard, with less wind noise and tighter build quality than some of the other full-size trucks in the class.

The Silverado's chief selling point still is its flexible order sheet. With its perennial appeal to work users, the Silverado comes in a staggering array of configurations and build combinations. Stripped-down work versions sticker in the low-$20,000 range, while loaded Hybrid models are priced near $50,000. Standard equipment even includes cruise control, while the options list counts leather upholstery, a new hard-drive navigation system, Bluetooth and USB connections for cell phones, and GM's OnStar telematics system, for everything from directions to emergency services.

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2012 Chevrolet Corvette

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The Chevrolet Corvette has long been a top performance bargain, but with improvements over the past three years, plus upgrades for 2012, the lineup just keeps getting better.

Available in both coupe and convertible forms in base and Grand Sport trims, or coupe-only in Z06 and ZR1 trims, the Corvette is an edgy and instantly recognizable silhouette no matter which you choose. The shovel-nosed, stub-tail look has held up well in the current generation, but the interior is looking dated--and with a new 'Vette on the way for 2014, it's not likely to change much next year, either.

Three different V-8 engines are available depending on the model chosen: the base Corvette and Grand Sport get a 6.2-liter LS3 V-8 engine rated at up to 436 horsepower; the Z06 gets its 505 horsepower from a 7.0-liter LS7; and the ZR1 uses a supercharged 6.2-liter supercharged LS9 to put out 638 horsepower. Whichever you choose, performance is electricifying with either automatic or manual transmissions.

The manual-transmission models come with standard launch control, helping them reach 60 mph in 4.5 seconds, with the Z06 shaving that to 3.9 seconds and the ZR1 a scant 3.4 seconds. Despite the obvious speed, the Corvette range handles well, too, with crisp, communicative steering. Excellent brakes are also par for the Corvette course.

Despite being low-slung and relatively compact, the Corvette is quite comfortable. Ample shoulder and hip room are offset somewhat by less than ideal headroom for taller drivers. Materials and design of the interior are much improved over previous version of the Corvette, but still fall short of the exterior's promise, however.

Although the Corvette, like most high-end sports cars, hasn't been crash-tested, it is packed with ample safety equipment including standard front and side driver and passenger airbags, anti-lock brakes, and stability and traction control. The only complaint in this department might be compromised visibility due to the low seating position and smallish windows.

Standard features include XM Satellite Radio, auxiliary audio input, dual-zone climate control, keyless entry, push-button start, steering wheel audio controls, power driver's seat, and more. Upgrade options include a heads-up display, Bluetooth, satellite navigation, and a wide range of performance enhancements and interior and exterior appearance packages.

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2012 Chevrolet Camaro

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Back for its third model year since introduction in 2009, the 2012 Chevrolet Camaro retains its retro-themed yet modern take on the Camaro's heritage, with the addition of a hyper-powerful ZL1 variant in addition to the standard V-6 and SS models. Whether you choose the coupe or the convertible, the 2012 Camaro makes a strong style statement.

When the muscle car revival first struck with the return of the Camaro and Challenger, sales lit up like a wildfire--and haven't slowed much since. This year, the 3.6-liter V-6 variant once again gets a power increase from 312 to 323 horsepower, while the V-8 SS model holds steady at 426 horsepower. All new for 2012 is the Camaro ZL1, which adds a supercharger, more dramatic styling, more aggressive handling, and a total of 580 horsepower.

The aggressive, pure muscle-car look of the 2012 Chevrolet Camaro doesn't come without its downsides, however. The low, sleek roofline means a shortage of headroom for taller drivers, and the high beltline makes it hard to see out of the car for shorter ones. The back seat is suitable only for children, and the trunk, despite the car's overall size, is diminutive. Ride quality, however, is very good overall despite the sporting overtones, and the cabin is quiet.

Beyond the look and the shortfalls in functionality and comfort, however, the 2012 Camaro is great at its main focus: performance. The base model, powered by the up-rated V-6, is pretty peppy, but the 6.2-liter V-8-powered SS model really brings the chassis to life, particularly when paired with the six-speed manual transmission. The automatic is no slouch, however, offering slick shifts and solid acceleration as well--all models of the 2012 Camaro SS hit 60 mph in about 4.5 seconds. The real star performer for 2012 is the ZL1, with 580 horsepower from a supercharged 6.2-liter V-8, magnetic ride suspension, and even more fearsome looks. Steering is direct, and the handling is crisp for a car of this weight class.

Even though performance is clearly given top billing with the 2012 Chevy Camaro, the common threads of all modern cars are still strong here: safety and convenience features abound. Six standard airbags, including side-curtain airbags that extend to the back seat, anti-lock brakes, dynamic stability control, and traction control are found in every new Camaro. Crash test ratings are solid, though perhaps not segment-leading: the NHTSA rates the Camaro at five stars for rollover protection, but due to changes in the way it tests front and side impact ratings, hasn't yet scored the 2012 model on other measures. The IIHS hasn't tested the Camaro.

Features are also ample, with OnStar navigation available; Bluetooth, USB, and iPod connectivity as options, and a new head-up display like the one found in the Corvette that debuted last year.

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Quick Drive: 2012 Chevrolet Orlando

I would love to be able to get one of these in the US.  I like the Mazda 5, but it has some issues with wind noise and the fuel economy isn't as good.  Please bring just a few Orlandos here! It surpirised me a bit when I started seeing commercials for the Orlando on tv a couple of weeks ago because I hadn't seen any articles on it in any of the American mags. Not since Chevy unveiled it at some auto show a while ago.  

This explains it.  

Todd's pretty accurate in saying you may think us Canadians are very similar to Americans, like a brother you could say, but that we're quite different. We're more like a third cousin.

As far as the Orlando itself, it just seems like a practical, basic, inexpensive, versatile, and fairly fuel efficient appliance.

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2012 Chevrolet Sonic

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With the 2012 Chevrolet Sonic, General Motors is at last fully in the small-car game. That might sound silly to those who can recall a laundry list of former Chevrolet small cars—Chevette, Vega, Spectrum, Cavalier, Cobalt, Aveo, Metro, Sprint, to mention a few—but most of those vehicles truly felt like halfhearted efforts that took second stage to the automakers trucks and larger cars.

That's not the case with the 2012 Chevrolet Sonic, a completely new, global small car that thankfully has nothing to do with the rental-car-mainstay, the Aveo, that it replaces—thus the new model name.

At a time when the subcompact class seems to be segmenting into two camps—with the Nissan Versa, Honda Fit, and Hyundai Accent on the larger side, and the Ford Fiesta, Toyota Yaris, and even the Fiat 500 at the lower end of the scale—the Sonic lands mostly in that smaller group, at least by the EPA's definition. Yet in looking at curb weight (about 2,600 pounds), the Sonic ranks as one of the heavier vehicles in this class.

Factor in an all-new structure that feels transformational compared to the Aveo's, and vaultlike next to many other small-car designs, combined with a top-notch safety list (already an IIHS Top Safety pick and ten standard airbags), and it's a little more forgivable that the Sonic tips the scales at that.

There are two engines at launch in the Sonic, and both of them are poached from the Chevrolet Cruze lineup: a normally aspirated 1.8-liter four, or a turbocharged 1.4-liter four. Both can be had with either a manual gearbox or an all-new six-speed automatic. The 1.4T is definitely our favored choice between the two, as it's more flexible as well as more fuel-efficient. Nicely weighted steering rounds out the driving package, and while the Sonic is actually surprisingly good fun to drive, the steering is if anything a little too isolated and damped. That speaks for the rest of the package—which is great, from a passenger and comfort perspective. The Sonic is supremely roomy, comfortable, refined, tight, and quiet for a small car, and it's really hard to find any serious flaws with the entire package—and in our opinion, it looks better than most in this class in sedan form, even though we love hatches.

The Sonic delights with surprise standard features like alloy wheels on all models, plus remote keyless entry and air conditioning, and comes pretty well-equipped for around $15k. But then, in this arms race of features and value, there are some disappointments. For instance, you'll need to reach to LT or LTZ models to be able to option to the 1.4T engine, and some tech essentials like USB (with full iPod control) and Bluetooth are optional and only offered on the top-of-the-line LTZ model. That said, a loaded 2012 Sonic LTZ should still total below the $20k mark—a seriously good deal in today's market.

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2012 Chevrolet Traverse

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Chevy's famous for its big, tough SUVs, like the Tahoe, Suburban, and the old TrailBlazer. But today's families want something a little more road-friendly, a little less trail-blazing. That's what brought about the Traverse, a seven- or eight-seat crossover that's one of the best vehicles in today's Chevy lineup, thanks to excellent safety scores and good features. It's not a minivan, but it's nearly as functional as one, even without the sliding doors.

The Traverse's styling is inoffensive. It suits the mission, we suppose, but there's not much excitement in the mildly contoured shape, nothing of the flair that you'd find in the chunky, trucklike GMC Acadia and flowing, curvilinear Buick Enclave that share the Traverse's platform. The Chevy's simple, elegant, even spare, and that has its own charm. The design influence from other Chevy products is clear, especially up front where a Malibu-like split grille sits tall. The lack of detail makes the rear end of the Traverse as forgettable as any minivan, though, and the same holds true for the interior--it's functional, but not exciting, by any means, and the sheets of hard, dull plastic that wrap the dash and doors could use an upgrade.

Performance is quick and competent. There's only one drivetrain offered, a direct-injection 3.6-liter V-6 engine coupled to a six-speed automatic transmission. The 288-horsepower six (281 hp in models with a single exhaust) generates leisurely acceleration and a bit of V-6 grumble at the top of its powerband, but it doesn't really feel anemic unless you've taken on a full load of passengers and chosen the optional all-wheel drive. Chevy's six-speed automatic dithers sometimes when downshifts are requested; it's a bit less on the mark than the Ford transmission that was co-developed alongside it. The Traverse's handling isn't nimble--it's just the predictable norm for its size, with mild steering feedback and moderate body roll when it's pressed to act more like a sport wagon.

The Traverse's strengths lie in its roomy, comfortable interior. It's almost a minivan in terms of raw space, but the lack of sliding doors does put it at a slight disadvantage in a couple of ways. Front passengers have it best, with plenty of head and leg room, but the second-row seat's nearly as spacious for adults, and seating three across isn't out of the question. You'll want the sliding side doors of a minivan when loading anyone older than 10 in the third-row seat, as it's not easy to clamber in there even when the second row's folded and moved forward, but the third-row seat itself can hold three children while still leaving 24.4 cubic feet of cargo space behind it. Flip down the second and third rows and the Traverse opens up 117.5 cubic feet of space and a just-about-flat cargo floor.

One of the safest vehicles on the road today, the 2012 Traverse earns nearly perfect crash-test scores. Overall, the NHTSA gives it five stars, with a four-star rating for front impacts and five for side impacts. The IIHS names it a Top Safety Pick, too. Along with standard airbags, anti-lock brakes and traction control, Bluetooth and parking sensors, the Traverse can be fitted with a rearview camera, to help with its middling visibility to the rear quarters.

All 2012 Traverse crossovers come with a tilt/telescopic wheel; power windows, locks and mirrors; cruise control; Bluetooth; and an AM/FM/XM/CD sound system. Major options include the rearview camera; a power liftgate; heated and cooled front seats; and a DVD entertainment system. The top-spec LTZ can be equipped with 20-inch aluminum wheels; a rear spoiler; dual exhausts; and a panoramic sunroof.

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2012 Chevrolet Colorado

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Now that Chevrolet's announced a replacement to come in 2013, the Chevy Colorado pickup's fate is clear. This will be the final model year in its current form, and the compact truck will move from its assembly home in Louisiana to a plant in Missouri.

That leaves today's truck in lame-duck mode, with very few changes for the new model year other than adjustments to equipment offered on different trim levels.

A mechanical twin to the GMC Canyon, the Colorado is a dated pickup truck with fewer safety and entertainment features and body styles than some of the newer, mid-size pickups, like the Toyota Tacoma and Nissan Frontier.

In any of its three forms--regular cab, Extended Cab or Crew Cab--the Colorado isn't unattractive. It just lacks the presence that a larger truck can have, despite its tall, split Chevy grille and squared-off fenders. Extended Cab trucks have small rear-hinged doors, while Crew Cabs have four front-hinged doors. The interior's the real disappointment: it's slathered in hard, inexpensive plastic and in base form can look quite low-budget, thanks to a dash shape that's just as vintage. Without the Dodge Dakota and Ford Ranger around to pick on, the Colorado's left behind to take the brunt of all these complaints that honestly probably don't matter at all to its drivers.

Chevy offers a choice of three engines in the Colorado. A 185-horsepower, 2.9-liter four-cylinder is the base engine, and it's not very pleasant or very efficient, and it's not recommended unless you're buying these trucks in bulk for fleet use. The 3.7-liter five-cylinder, with 242 hp, may be worse, since it's supposed to be an upgrade. It sounds just as clunky and feels almost as slow as the in-line four.

It'll quaff gas like a big SUV, but the engine we recommend is GM's 300-hp, 5.3-liter V-8. It sounds like a lot to stuff into such a small truck, but they've made it fit--and it pushes the Colorado to 60 mph in less than 7.0 seconds, and gives it a towing capacity of 6000 pounds. 

The Colorado lineup comes with a variety of manual and automatic transmissions, and four-wheel drive is available across the lineup. Fuel economy ranges from 18/25 mpg in the manual-shift four-cylinders to 14/19 mpg in the V-8, 4WD trucks.

For utility, GM offers up two bed lengths in the Colorado. Most versions have a shorter bed that's just a little more than five feet long; Crew Cabs have a six-foot bed. Neither will carry the ubiquitous 4x8 sheet of plywood, which limits the utility of these trucks. Crew Cabs also have a nearly vertical rear seatback, which makes their utility as a five-passenger vehicle minimal.

Safety scores are mixed, to poor. The IIHS gives extended-cab Colorados a "good" score for front impacts, but Crew Cabs are rated "acceptable" for front impacts and "marginal" for side impacts. The NHTSA only ranks rollover potential, and there the Colorado earns three stars. Anti-lock brakes and stability control are standard.

Each Colorado gets standard air conditioning; tilt steering; folding exterior mirrors; and cruise control. On the options list are traction control; satellite radio; fog lamps; a CD changer; a sliding rear window; and leather seats.

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2013 Chevrolet TrailBlazer SUV Announced For Global Markets

The TrailBlazer is set to return following an announcement by Chevrolet this morning that a new-generation of its popular mid-size SUV is planned, though it may not be sold in the U.S.

Chevrolet plans to introduce the new TrailBlazer as a 2013 model early next year, but so far sales in only global markets have been confirmed.

There is one factor that bodes well for the new TrailBlazer’s chances in the U.S. It will be based on the redesigned Colorado pickup truck destined for production and sale in local showrooms sometime next year.

This platform, developed by GM engineers in Brazil, is available in both rear-drive and all-wheel drive variants and can be powered by either gasoline or diesel engines.  

Pictured above is a teaser of the new 2013 Chevrolet TrailBlazer, which will make its official world debut at the 2011 Dubai Motor Show next month.

Stay tuned for an update.

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2012 Chevrolet Camaro, 2012 Buick Verano, Saab: Car News Headlines

2012 Chevrolet Camaro SS

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Today at High Gear Media we review the 2012 Chevrolet Camaro and drive the new 2012 Buick Verano. Saab's life lines are running out and Toyota launches a new FT-86 app. All this and more in today's car news, right here on The Car Connection.

We review the 2012 Chevrolet Camaro and love its contemporary-but-classic muscle-car looks.

Toyota launches a new FT-86 app, too bad it's not the actual car.

The director of Revenge Of The Electric Car is holding a live webchat later today.

Do you think alcohol anklets will help stop hard core drunk drivers?

Saab's suitors have all bailed and the court is asking for the plug to finally be pulled. Has Saab run out of life support?

We drive the Buick Verano and find it to be comfortable-riding quiet car.

Fisker feels the EPA is giving them bad Karma.

We take a look at the 2012 family crossovers with the best cargo flexibility.

Now you can bring Nissan's world to your Apple iPad with the new global app.

Chevrolet releases video of the 2012 Camaro ZL1 being torture tested on a track.

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2012 Chevrolet Silverado 1500

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The Chevrolet Silverado lineup spans a huge swath of the full-size pickup market, from sport trucks to hybrids to heavy-duty models. For 2012, it hasn't changed much, but it still stacks up well against newer trucks like the Ford F-150, Ram 1500, and its close kith and kin, the GMC Sierra 1500.

Chevy's full-size trucks come in a form to suit nearly every possible kind of truck user, from exurban hipsters to urban construction crew chieftans. Shoppers can opt into one of three body styles, and one of two interior designs; from among four gas engines and two automatic transmissions, or one gas-electric drivetrain; and from bed lengths ranging from the smallest 5'-8" bed on Crew Cabs and Hybrids, to the 6-6" bed on all versions save for the Hybrid, to the 8' bed offered on all versions except the Hybrid.

The Silverado's styling remains safe and a little plain, when compared to the Ram or Toyota trucks. It's one of the oldest designs on the block and it shows in its less obvious looks. That's not to say it's not handsome--Chevy's trucks have a way of looking good for decades and we suspect today's Silverado is on its way to the same distinction. The interior's unique in that it comes either with a console and more upscale trim, or as a more basic design without the console and without the woodgrain trim, both handsome and organized thoughtfully. No matter how you cut across the lineup, the Silverado look seems to be aging well.

No longer economy or horsepower leaders, the drivetrains offered in the Silverado still are competitive after a few years on the market. The range of engines includes a 195-horsepower, 4.3-liter V-6 that we'd only recommend to fleet buyers. Among the V-8s, there's a flex-fuel, 302-hp 4.8-liter V-8 in some of the less expensive models; a flex-fuel 5.3-liter V-8 with 315 hp in more mainstream versions, and outfitted with cylinder deactivation for improved fuel economy in XFE models; and at the top of the range, a 6.2-liter, 403-hp, flex-fuel V-8 in the Silverado LTZ. A four-speed automatic is fitted to base V-6 and base V-8 versions, while all other models except for the hybrid have a six-speed automatic that shifts smoothly and quietly, and helps keep those gas-mileage numbers in the ballpark of Ford's higher-mpg lineup. The 5.3-liter is our choice of the gas-only Silverados: it has ample power for almost every need, and comes with only a slight gas-mileage penalty over the basic V-6.

The Silverado Hybrid is quite different from the stock-and-trade Chevy truck, thanks to a two-mode hybrid powertrain that pairs an aluminum-alloy 6.0-liter V-8 with cylinder deactivation and variable valve timing, to an electrically variable transmission (EVT) with four fixed-ratio gears and two electric motor/generators, as well as a nickel-metal-hydride 300-volt battery pack. All together, these pieces combine to produce 332 horsepower and 367 pound-feet of torque, to a net EPA gas-mileage rating of 20 mpg city, 23 mpg highway. The Hybrid's performance isn't radically different from the gas-engined versions, save for the for the exceptionally smooth and quiet operation of the hybrid drivetrain, which runs on electricity alone up to 27 mph. Regenerative braking helps recapture some energy to charge the batteries. Despite its extra heft, the Silverado Hybrid can tow 6,100 pounds with 2WD, or 5,900 pounds with automatic dual-range four-wheel drive.

Across the lineup, the Silverado has some of the best straight-line performance in the class, though the pack has gotten significantly more competitive with Ford's new 5.0-liter V-8 and Toyota's improved V-8s. The Silverado maxes out at 10,700 pounds of towing capacity--and yet, it's still one of the easiest full-size pickups to drive, thanks to communicative steering and good to fair ride quality, which gets noticeably stiffer with four-wheel-drive models.

The Silverado's cabin doesn't meet the flexible Ram 1500 head-on with nifty features, and its cabin has some foibles that you won't find in the F-150 or Tundra, either. Front space is ample, and though the bucket seats could be more supportive for longer trips, we'd still opt for them over the flat front bench for personal use. On Crew Cab Silverados, the rear seat is placed high, stadium-style, and is split 60/40 so it can be folded down for more carrying space, but the rear seatback is nearly vertical, making it uncomfortable for longer trips. The rear access doors on extended-cab models open 170 degrees, for easier loading of small items like a toolbox or a properly folded tent. Throughout the Silverado range, a hushed and refined cabin is standard, with less wind noise and tighter build quality than some of the other full-size trucks in the class.

The Silverado's chief selling point still is its flexible order sheet. With its perennial appeal to work users, the Silverado comes in a staggering array of configurations and build combinations. Stripped-down work versions sticker in the low-$20,000 range, while loaded Hybrid models are priced near $50,000. Standard equipment even includes cruise control, while the options list counts leather upholstery, a new hard-drive navigation system, Bluetooth and USB connections for cell phones, and GM's OnStar telematics system, for everything from directions to emergency services.

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2012 Chevrolet Corvette

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The Chevrolet Corvette has long been a top performance bargain, but with improvements over the past three years, plus upgrades for 2012, the lineup just keeps getting better.

Available in both coupe and convertible forms in base and Grand Sport trims, or coupe-only in Z06 and ZR1 trims, the Corvette is an edgy and instantly recognizable silhouette no matter which you choose. The shovel-nosed, stub-tail look has held up well in the current generation, but the interior is looking dated--and with a new 'Vette on the way for 2014, it's not likely to change much next year, either.

Three different V-8 engines are available depending on the model chosen: the base Corvette and Grand Sport get a 6.2-liter LS3 V-8 engine rated at up to 436 horsepower; the Z06 gets its 505 horsepower from a 7.0-liter LS7; and the ZR1 uses a supercharged 6.2-liter supercharged LS9 to put out 638 horsepower. Whichever you choose, performance is electricifying with either automatic or manual transmissions.

The manual-transmission models come with standard launch control, helping them reach 60 mph in 4.5 seconds, with the Z06 shaving that to 3.9 seconds and the ZR1 a scant 3.4 seconds. Despite the obvious speed, the Corvette range handles well, too, with crisp, communicative steering. Excellent brakes are also par for the Corvette course.

Despite being low-slung and relatively compact, the Corvette is quite comfortable. Ample shoulder and hip room are offset somewhat by less than ideal headroom for taller drivers. Materials and design of the interior are much improved over previous version of the Corvette, but still fall short of the exterior's promise, however.

Although the Corvette, like most high-end sports cars, hasn't been crash-tested, it is packed with ample safety equipment including standard front and side driver and passenger airbags, anti-lock brakes, and stability and traction control. The only complaint in this department might be compromised visibility due to the low seating position and smallish windows.

Standard features include XM Satellite Radio, auxiliary audio input, dual-zone climate control, keyless entry, push-button start, steering wheel audio controls, power driver's seat, and more. Upgrade options include a heads-up display, Bluetooth, satellite navigation, and a wide range of performance enhancements and interior and exterior appearance packages.

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2013 Chevrolet Spark Mini-Car, Electric Version Confirmed For U.S.

2013 Chevrolet Spark minicar unveiled in Detroit, October 2011

Newsletter Stay up to date on car reviews, buying guides, articles and more Chevrolet announced this morning that its Spark mini-car will be coming to the U.S., as will a battery electric version called the Spark EV. The car will be the smallest offered by the brand in America, and will make its debut at the 2011 Los Angeles Auto Show.

The non-electric Spark will be powered by a 1.2-liter four-cylinder engine rated at 83 horsepower. Both manual and automatic transmissions will be offered. Despite its small size, Chevy says it will offer more room inside than other mini cars, including the similarly-sized Fiat 500. It will also come with a five year, 100,000-mile powertrain warranty and available OnStar equipment.

As GM's first all-electric car since the vaunted EV1, the Spark EV will arrive in 2013, about a year after the standard Spark, starting in California and expanding to other "select U.S. and global markets," according to GM. Chevy says the car will be best suited to urban drivers and those with short commutes, hinting that its A123 [NSDQ:AONE] nanophosphate lithium-ion battery pack will provide enough power only for short- to medium-range trips. For more details on the Spark EV, visit GreenCarReports.

Both cars will be available with Chevrolet's MyLink infotainment, which includes Pandora and Stitcher internet radio. Bluetooth, upgraded interior and exterior appearance options, and other packages will also be made available.

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