|
Hall Buick Pontiac GMC
3200 Virginia Beach Blvd
Virginia Beach, VA 23452
Sales • 1-866-813-5807
Service • 1-866 791-0572
In This Issue:
2009 Buick LaCrosse
2009 Pontiac G5
2009 GMC Sierra Two-Mode Hybrid
Top 11 Driver Distractions
100% Russian bling: Gold plated Porsche 911 turbo
Virginia Trivia
Ask The Car Doctor
and Much, More!
Tell a Friend
Forward this newsletter to a friend or colleague.
|
|
|
|
For the customers of Hall Buick Pontiac GMC
2009 Buick LaCrosse
Fresh from a major visual refreshening and the recent introduction of a Super model, the 2009 Buick LaCrosse delivers a higher level of safety and convenience features. The enhancements make LaCrosse an even better value for entry-luxury customers.
“The LaCrosse family of entry-level CX, the uplevel CXL and the top-of-the-line Super provides a tremendous level of content and refinement for the discerning buyer,” said Susan Docherty, Buick-Pontiac-GMC vice president. “They represent a solid foundation for the Buick brand and a sound value for the premium sedan customer.”
Buick LaCrosse enhancements for the 2009 model year include standard heated outside rearview mirrors on all models. The heating element is activated whenever the rear defogger is operated and clears the exterior mirrors of snow, ice and light rain.
LaCrosse customers who frequently transport larger items can opt for the convenience of a split folding rear seat design. Available as part of the Driver Confidence Package, the split folding rear seats allow longer items to be safely carried inside the vehicle. The 60/40 split folding aspect of the seats also ensures that LaCrosse customers can carry cargo and one rear passenger.
Another convenience feature is the Bluetooth for Phone hands-free phone interface; it’s available on all Buick LaCrosse models for 2009 and uses the OnStar 7.2 system’s voice recognition to interpret voice commands to dial phone numbers and name tags. Phone conversations are transmitted through the vehicle’s audio system. The volume can be adjusted via the integrated steering wheel controls, allowing drivers to keep their hands on the steering wheel at all times for both safety and convenience.
Further enhancing the entry-level LaCrosse CX model are more stylish wheels for 2009. Painted 16-inch aluminum wheels are now standard and replace the previous 16-inch steel wheels and wheel covers. Seventeen-inch chrome-clad wheels are available.
One new exterior color is available for 2009: Quicksilver Metallic replaces Platinum Metallic. Scarlet Red is no longer available.
Powertrains
Two distinct engines power the 2009 Buick LaCrosse lineup. LaCrosse CX and CXL models are propelled by the 3.8L V-6. This proven industry stalwart is rated at an SAE-certified 200 horsepower (149 kW) and 230 lb.-ft (312 Nm) of torque. The 3.8L features electronic throttle control to improve engine response and optimize fuel efficiency. Recent upgrades to the 3.8L also result in quiet operation.
LaCrosse Super models, meanwhile, are powered by the robust 5.3L V-8 small-block. Rated at 300 horsepower (224 kW) and 323-lb.ft (438 Nm)* of torque, it enables LaCrosse Super to reach 60 mph from a dead stop in just 5.9 seconds. The 5.3L small-block V-8 uses GM’s Active Fuel Management (AFM), an engine technology that seamlessly switches between four and eight cylinders to save fuel.
Ride and handling
For an optimal balance of smooth ride quality and road-holding capability, LaCrosse CX and CXL models feature a MacPherson-strut coil-over-spring front suspension employing twin-tube dampers with four-stage valving and a 30-mm tubular stabilizer bar. The independent, tri-link rear suspension, meanwhile, features coil-over-struts and a 17-mm tubular direct-acting stabilizer bar.
CX models are equipped with standard 16-inch wheels and P225/60R16 tires; 17-inch wheels with P225/55R17 tires are available on LaCrosse CX and standard on CXL models.
LaCrosse Super models feature a specially tuned suspension system for precise steering, improved ride control and feel, and increased braking performance. Bilstein monotube struts, larger front and rear rotors, high-precision steering gear, StabiliTrak, and recalibrated chassis controls help the LaCrosse Super deliver confident handling and road manners, while also maintaining overall ride comfort.
The Super version comes standard with the largest wheel and tire combination available on the LaCrosse – 18x7-inch aluminum rims wrapped by P235/50R18 all-season tires. Chrome-finish wheels are available.
An inviting interior
LaCrosse’s inviting interior reflects Buick’s craftsmanship. Attention to detail is evident in the use of high-quality, soft-touch materials that are complemented by the tasteful use of chrome and woodgrain accents. It’s also apparent in the precise alignment of the various interior components.
CX and CXL models are available in either five- or six-passenger seating configurations. LaCrosse Super is available exclusively with five-passenger seating.
Interior roominess abounds in all LaCrosse models. With its 110.5-inch wheelbase, LaCrosse delivers an impressive 115.4 cubic feet of interior volume, including plenty of legroom (42.4 inches/37.6 inches front/rear), plenty of hip room (55.3 inches/54.6 inches front/rear) and a spacious 16-cubic-foot trunk on CX and CXL models (14.3 cubic feet on Super models).
QuietTuning
As with all Buick vehicles, LaCrosse delivers a library-quiet ride, thanks to QuietTuning, an all-encompassing engineering approach aimed at reducing, blocking and absorbing unwanted noise from entering the vehicle’s cabin. Specific QuietTuning examples include the use of acoustical laminate on the windshield and front side glass; steel laminate on the front-of-dash body area; expanded baffles in the roof pillars; extensive use of melt-on sound deadeners throughout the entire lower body structure; and sound-absorbing material throughout LaCrosse’s engine, passenger and cargo compartments.
Safety features
LaCrosse is equipped with a host of standard safety and security features, including dual-stage frontal air bags, side curtain air bags, anti-lock brakes, and PASSLock III theft-deterrent system with engine immobilizer. OnStar service is also standard and includes hands-free voice recognition capabilities to provide more intuitive continuous digit dialing and improved voice recognition accuracy.
Other security and convenience features include Ultrasonic Rear Parking Assist, which detects stationary objects behind the vehicle and sounds a warning when the vehicle is being backed up.
2009 Pontiac G5
A new, more efficient version of the 2.2L Ecotec engine delivers a dramatic increase in fuel economy for the 2009 Pontiac G5. The 2.2L engine uses variable valve timing to optimize fuel economy at all speeds, for an EPA-estimated highway rating of 37 mpg. It also brings a slight horsepower increase.
“With the new 2.2L engine, the 2009 G5 is a great-looking, low-priced coupe that delivers fuel economy that pushes it to the top of its segment,” said Susan Docherty, vice president of Buick-Pontiac-GMC. “It is an uncompromising choice for customers who want style, convenience and great mileage at an affordable price.”
In addition to increased power and fuel economy, the ’09 G5 coupe continues to offer a wide range of standard comfort, convenience and safety features – many not found on competitors’ models – wrapped in a sporty coupe design.
The G5 is available in base and GT models, all marked by clean lines, a spacious, five-passenger interior and standard rear spoiler.
Enhanced safety and style
Last year, the G5 made safety features such head curtain side-impact air bags and GM’s tire pressure monitoring system standard. For ’09, a passenger sensing system is added, complementing the standard dual-stage frontal air bags.
Also new for the ’09 G5 lineup is the addition of Bluetooth connectivity with the OnStar system (OnStar is now standard on all models). This wireless technology enables hands-free phone calls for safer, more convenient connections.
Two new exterior colors are added to the G5’s palette: Quicksilver Metallic and Silver Green Metallic (Nitrous Blue Metallic and Titanium Metallic are retired); and a new interior color combination is added: Ebony/Red leather-appointed seating is available on GT models.
Additional changes and new content reflect revisions to popular equipment packages. They include:
Sun and Sound Package – Content includes a new, AM/FM/CD radio with MP3 playback with premium Pioneer seven-speaker sound and a power sunroof.
New MYLINK Package – Content includes 16-inch machine-face wheels, four-wheel ABS, cruise control, chrome exhaust tip, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, steering wheel audio controls and Bluetooth capability.
New Appearance Package – Content includes body-color side moldings, trunk cargo net, chrome exhaust tip and front fog lamps.
G5 standard and available features
The base G5 is well-equipped with standard features including air conditioning; OnStar; power windows and door locks; remote keyless entry, carpeted floor mats; and four cupholders (two in front, two in rear).
Available options on the base model include anti-lock brakes; leather-appointed seats; seven-speaker Pioneer sound system with 10-inch subwoofer; uplevel radio with USB input port; cruise control; traction control; remote start; sunroof; cargo net; body-side moldings; fog lamps; leather-wrapped steering and shift knob; and 16-inch aluminum wheels.
The GT model ups the ante on standard features, including StabiliTrak electronic stability control system, anti-lock brakes, 17-inch aluminum wheels, sport rocker moldings; heated seats; fog lamps, cruise control, leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio controls, leather-wrapped shift knob and cargo net.
XM Satellite Radio also is standard on both base and GT models, providing more entertainment options for drivers and their passengers.
Powertrain
Both the G5 base and GT models employ the Ecotec 2.2L four-cylinder engine. It is rated at 155 horsepower (116 kW)* and 150 lb.-ft. of torque (203 Nm)*. Variable valve timing is added to the 2.2L engine for ’09, enabling a dramatic increase in efficiency, as well as an approximate 5-percent increase in horsepower over the ’08 version.
The Ecotec engine has a solid architecture and all-aluminum construction, with features that include:
Catalyst located close to the exhaust manifold to speed catalyst “light-off” and reduce hydrocarbon emissions
Direct mounting of all accessories to the engine structure to eliminate common sources of noise, vibration and harshness
Dual overhead camshafts (DOHC) and four valves per cylinder
Extremely compact dimensions and low mass
Full circle transmission attachment is more rigid than most four-cylinder powertrains for reduced noise and vibration
GM Oil Life System for optimum oil change frequency
Innovative cast-in oil filter housing eliminates crawling under the car to perform oil changes. The design also eliminates throwaway oil-filter “cans” that retain used oil that typically end up in landfills
Low-friction, roller-finger follower valvetrain with hydraulic lash adjusters
No routine maintenance apart from oil/oil filter changes
Twin counter-rotating balance shafts
Zero-maintenance chain camshaft drive
The standard transmission on both models is a Getrag F23 five-speed manual transmission, known for its smooth shifting. Customers can also choose GM’s Hydra-Matic 4T45 electronically controlled four-speed automatic. The 4T45 uses Dexron VI fluid and is “filled for life,” meaning no scheduled maintenance is required for the transmission under normal operating conditions.
Fuel economy improvement details
The ’09 G5 delivers a dramatic increase in fuel economy with the 2.2L Ecotec engine, 25 mpg city and 37 mpg highway, the highest of any Pontiac product.
Variable valve timing added to the 2.2L Ecotec engine enables the more efficient performance, along with an increase in horsepower from 148 (110 kW) to 155 (115 kW)* – and the engine also qualifies the G5 as an Ultra Low Emissions Vehicle. Helping to maximize fuel economy is a new, “taller” 3.63 final drive ratio for the manual transmission (previous final drive was 3.84:1) and new, 15-inch low-rolling resistance tires.
Energetic driving experience
Pontiacs are known for delivering a crisp driving experience, and the G5 is definitely part of the family. It uses a MacPherson strut-type front suspension, semi-independent torsion beam rear suspension, and front and rear stabilizer bars for more exact body roll control. Suspension tuning for each model, including steering feel, spring rate and stabilizer bar diameter, is precisely tuned to provide distinct driving and handling characteristics. Two suspension settings are offered:
FE1 touring suspension – standard on the base model, provides a smooth ride and includes a 19-mm front stabilizer bar and a 16-mm rear stabilizer bar
FE3 sport-tuned suspension – standard on GT, delivers a firmer, more responsive ride and includes 22-mm front and rear stabilizer bars, four-wheel disc brakes, monotube shocks and 17-inch wheels and performance tires
The G5’s strut-type front suspension has 90 mm of compression travel and 87 mm of rebound, which beats most competitors and provides long wheel travel in a compact wheel base. A distinct road feel is provided by L-shaped front control arms containing a forward pivot bushing, which transmits most of the cornering force, and a larger, high-damped composite rear hydraulic bushing that allows rearward movement to minimize harshness from road surface impacts.
Defined steering response and improved cornering agility with decreased body roll are created by the direct-acting front stabilizer bar that connects to each strut. All front suspension components are mounted to a firm cradle assembly comprised of four large hydroformed steel tubes and two side members that are integrally welded to front and rear cross members. The cradle is mounted to the G5’s space frame at four widely spaced points.
The G5’s torsion beam rear suspension provides excellent ride and handling, while maximizing interior space. A hydraulic rear suspension bushing is employed on the FE1 suspension to improve the ride and suppress road noise. Rear wheel travel, at 126.5 mm in jounce and 68.5 mm in rebound, is longer than most vehicles in the segment.
Safety features
The rigid body structure that lays the foundation of G5’s dynamic driving experience also reinforces its safety. In addition to the solid unibody structure, dual-stage frontal and front-and-rear head curtain side-impact air bags are standard across the lineup. Front seat belt pretensioners, rear center shoulder belts and the LATCH child seat retention system are also standard.
GM’s tire pressure monitoring system is standard and uses sensors to track pressure changes, helping motorists avoid premature tire failure and potentially dangerous, costly breakdowns.
The G5’s digital OnStar system features enhanced hands-free voice recognition capabilities including more intuitive continuous digit dialing and improved voice recognition accuracy. Using the GPS satellite network and wireless technology, OnStar features core safety services and OnStar Hands-Free Calling that allow drivers to make and receive voice-activated phone calls using an externally mounted antenna for greater reception.
The OnStar service on the G5 also includes the General Motors Advanced Automatic Crash Notification (AACN) system, making crash data available to the participating 911 centers to help them dispatch the appropriate life-saving personnel and equipment to crash scenes faster. Optional is OnStar’s Vehicle Diagnostics notification system that allows subscribers to receive free monthly diagnostic reports via e-mail. Each diagnostic report provides crucial tire pressure information, remaining engine oil life data, emissions, engine and transmission, and braking systems, as well as air bag system checks.
Click here to find a Pontiac for you.
2009 GMC Sierra Two-Mode Hybrid
By David Yochum
Our 2008 Technology of the Year just got more work duty.
As one of the first GM trucks equipped with the Two-Mode system (the hybrid technology also appears in 2008 GMC Yukon and Chevy Tahoe hybrids), GMC says the Sierra Hybrid achieves 40 percent greater city fuel economy and a 25 percent improvement in overall fuel economy when compared to the standard Sierra, which gets an EPA-rated 13 mpg city and 18 mpg highway. The hybrid version can reach speeds up to 30 mph on electric power and features additional fuel-saving technology, such as a 6.0-liter V-8 with electronic variable transmission (EVT) and GM's active fuel management.
Similar to its Two-Mode SUV cousins, the Sierra Hybrid has a 6100-pound towing capacity, is available in two- or four-wheel drive (StabiliTrak and a locking rear axle are standard) and benefits from subtle body enhancements - a slightly deeper front air dam and a tonneau cover to reduce air drag.
Inside the truck, drivers will notice a new instrument cluster and a battery pack located under the rear seat.
Top 11 Driver Distractions
Driven to Distraction
Driving a car is a complex physical and mental operation. Not only does it require coordination and reflexes, it also requires rapid assessment skills and good judgment. Automakers have spent decades making cars easier and safer to drive, installing everything from rearview mirrors to automatic transmissions to cruise control. Despite that, some drivers insist on creating distractions for themselves behind the wheel, most of which have nothing to do with driving, safe or otherwise.
Distraction Causes Crashes
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and Virginia Tech Transportation Institute have studied driver behavior, and have categorized some of the causes of accidents in these reports. Their conclusion: "Driver inattention is the leading factor in most crashes and near-crashes."
Just Drive
We've compiled a list of distracting activities that we've witnessed on the road. While we may have been guilty of engaging in a few of these non-driving-related distractions ourselves over the years, we have sworn off all extraneous activities behind the wheel. Our new motto: "Just drive."
Applying Makeup
Ladies, we know that it's impossible to get ready on time in the morning. But please, don't try to put on your mascara in traffic. Not only are you diverting your attention from the road, you’re also at risk of looking like a sad clown by the time your get to the office.
Shaving
Gentlemen, just because that razor is cordless doesn't mean that you should use it everywhere. While you concentrate on getting your sideburns even, traffic has bunched up behind you and you're driving on the shoulder. Shave at home, or wait until you get to work.
Eating
We’ve all done it on a busy day. A quick trip through the drive-through, and before you know it, you're eating a double cheeseburger with one hand, French fries with the other, balancing a soda with your elbow and steering with your knees. Beyond being a recipe for indigestion, eating behind the wheel is unsafe and distracting.
Reading
'Great Expectations' is a great book. It was a great book when Charles Dickens finished it in 1861. It will still be a great book after you reach your destination. Don't read behind the wheel. If you must be literary while driving, try audio books. Many of the classics are available for loan at your public library.
Talking on the Phone
"Research shows that driving while using a cell phone can pose a serious cognitive distraction and degrade driver performance," according to NHTSA, Using a hands-free device can reduce distraction, but not eliminate it. In other words, hang up and drive.
Texting
The driver in front of you on your morning commute weaves and swerves. You pull alongside, expecting to see an inebriated partier. Instead, a starched and pressed business person pilots the vehicle – while texting with both thumbs on a PDA which rests on the steering wheel. Texting is unsafe at any speed but zero.
Lounging
One of the first things we learn in driver's ed is proper driving position. So why do so many drivers insist on slouching, reclining, leaning against the door or putting their feet out of the window? Not only is visibility compromised, reaction time is delayed and control is also compromised, so much of the crash protection engineered into the car is defeated. Straighten up and drive right, for your own good.
Singing
A little bit of singing is a good thing, even while driving. But we've seen drivers engaging in full-out air guitar rockfests worthy of amphitheater stages, all while driving down a crowded highway. Save the theatrics for Karaoke night, and keep your mind on the road.
Petting the dog, cat, rabbit, bird or lizard
In swanky Beverly Hills, it's not uncommon to see a dog's face peeking out of the driver's window as a car whizzes by on Doheny Drive. The California state legislature even debated a law outlawing pets on drivers' laps. Confine your pet to the back seat or passenger seat. Pets are not immune to crashes, and can even cause them if they are unrestrained in the cabin.
Watching a Movie
In-car entertainment can really make a road trip pass by quickly for the passengers. But we've seen vehicles with LCD screens installed in the dash, in clear view of the driver, blaring video entertainment while the vehicle moves through traffic. Drive-in movies are one thing; a driving movie is something else entirely. Be sure to keep entertainment screens out of the driver’s line of sight.
Accessing the Internet
We haven’t seen this yet, but it’s coming. Chrysler LLC recently announced that it will launch an in-vehicle wireless internet system for its vehicles. According to Chrysler, "'uconnect web' transforms the vehicle into a mobile 'hot spot,' delivering unlimited, reliable and uninterrupted Internet connectivity." The system will be available as a dealer installed accessory for Dodge, Chrysler and Jeep vehicles beginning in August, 2008. Uh-oh!
100% Russian bling: Gold plated Porsche 911 turbo
by Shrawan Raja
If you wake up day after day only to find your bank balance replenished by a few million dollars, chances are at some point, you won’t know what to do with it. Take this Porsche 911 owner for example. He couldn’t find ways to get rid of the fast-accumulating green paper and did this to himself.- A 40- pound pure gold covered Porsche 911.
We find the idea annoying but appreciate the work that has gone into it. The carvings and designs on the surface are brilliant and would have taken weeks to complete by an extremely set of talented and skilled individuals. The polished surface looks nice and should have masked the rear-view mirrors entirely, eliminating the need for a reflective glass and related electronics for adjustments, but maybe next time?!
Driving a Porsche 911 on the streets would grab enough attention leave alone a gold-covered one. Is the Sultan of Brunei reading this?
Can you name the eight United States Presidents that were born in Virginia?
See answer under Car Doctor.
Ask the Car Doctor
Battle High Gas Prices: Tips to Boost Your Fuel Economy
How to save on gas without getting rid of your car.
By: Steve Siler and Colin Mathews
Thanks to the recent spike in fuel prices, high-mileage vehicles are among the most researched of all new-car purchases.
When it comes down to it, the most economical vehicle choice for your family is quite possibly the one that’s already sitting in your driveway. Unless you’re leasing a car that is due to be returned in the next couple of months, you might save as much or more money by simply keeping the car you own and driving it more economically.
But how, exactly? We’re not going to recommend any “hypermiling” nonsense, but we do know a few tricks—some you also might know, and others you might not. All, however, enable you to boost your personal fuel economy, squeezing more miles per gallon from whatever you drive, be it a Focus or a Phantom. Although gains from some of the tips below might seem minute, successfully enact all of them, and you’ll be nickel-and-diming Exxon for hundreds of bucks a year.
Tune Up Your Car
Okay, cars don’t really need “tune-ups” in the traditional mechanical sense any more. But if your “check engine” light is on, it could indicate a serious problem—say, a faulty oxygen sensor or worn spark plugs and wires—that, when fixed, could garner fuel-economy gains upwards of 30 percent, according to the EPA and Department of Energy’s shared Web site: www.fueleconomy.gov. Be sure to follow your recommended service schedule to keep your car running optimally.
Also, if you’re the change-your-own-oil type, the EPA says to be sure you use the right stuff. For example, using 10W-30 motor oil in an engine designed to use 5W-30 can lower your gas mileage by one to two percent.
Keep Your Tires Properly Inflated
The Department of Energy estimates that 5 to 15 percent of light-duty fuel consumption is spent overcoming rolling resistance, i.e., the friction between the road and a car’s tires. Lowering your vehicle’s rolling resistance starts with simply ensuring that your tires have enough air pressure. Underinflated tires can lower gas mileage by 0.4 percent for every 1-psi drop in pressure of all four tires.
A typical tire loses 1 psi per month and another with every 10-degree drop in temperature, so if you haven’t checked your tires in a few months, it’s time. Of course, pumping a few extra pounds of air pressure into the tires is one of the oldest fuel-economy tricks around, but going overboard will cost you some ride comfort and lateral grip, and—if taken to the extreme—could result in highly dangerous blowouts.
Make sure that your automobile is up to date on its service schedule.
Click Here to schedule a service appointment at your nearest Hall Automotive Service Center.
The eight United States Presidents that were born in Virginia: George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, James Madison, James Monroe, William Harrison, John Tyler, Zachary Taylor, and Woodrow Wilson.
|
