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GM to invest $450-million in Ontario auto plant
The Globe and Mail
Thu Feb 12 2015
Page: B1
Section: Report on Business
Byline: STEVEN CHASE, GREG KEENAN
Dateline: OTTAWA, TORONTO
General Motors Co. will invest more than $450-million at its assembly plant in Ingersoll, Ont., to continue
making its hot-selling Chevrolet Equinox and GMC Terrain crossover utility vehicles.
The auto maker is scheduled to make the announcement Thursday in conjunction with the introduction of a
new version of the Equinox the Canadian International Auto Show in Toronto, sources familiar with the auto
maker's plans said.
The investment will be made without financial help from the federal and Ontario governments, the sources said.
The move secures about 3,000 jobs at Cami Automotive Inc., which has been one of the most productive
plants in GM's North American network. It has been running on three shifts producing the Equinox, which was
the second-best seller in the GM lineup last month in the U.S. market, which is the destination for about 75 per
cent of the vehicles made at the plant. The Equinox is also made at a plant in Oshawa, Ont.
Cami turned out 312,198 Equinox and Terrain models last year, up 1 per cent from 307,935 in 2013. The
investment comes amid booming markets for GM and other auto makers in both the United States and
Canada.
Sales hit a record 1.8 million vehicles in Canada last year and analysts are forecasting that U.S. sales will top
17 million for the first time this year since the recession sent GM and Chrysler Group LLC into Chapter 11
bankruptcy protection in 2009.
The move also comes after analysts raised questions about GM's plans for future investment in Canada as the
auto maker complained about high labour and other costs. The future of the two Oshawa assembly plants is
still under a cloud, although General Motors of Canada Ltd. president Stephen Carlisle said the auto maker is
undertaking a costs study to determine whether new vehicles will be allocated to Oshawa.
No decision on future products for Oshawa will be made until late 2016, Mr. Carlisle has said, after the
company concludes negotiations with its unionized workers represented by Unifor.
The union represents workers in Oshawa as well as those at Cami, which began operating in 1989 as a joint
venture between GM and Suzuki Motor Co. Ltd.
GM (GMM.U) Close: $37.47 (U.S.), up 16C/
© 2015 The Globe and Mail Inc. All Rights Reserved.
Edition: Ontario
Length: 362 words
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Unifor's Jerry Dias makes case for Ontario with GM's Mary Barra
CBC.CA News
Wed Feb 11 2015, 7:48pm ET
Section: Business
Byline: CBC News
Jerry Dias, president of auto workers union Unifor, came away from a meeting with General Motors CEO Mary
Barra without a commitment to new auto models to be made in Oshawa, but with greater optimism about GM's
future in Canada.
Dias said he made the case for not just keeping, but expanding production in Ontario, in his meeting with GM?s
top executives on Tuesday.
"Am I more optimistic than I was yesterday, the answer is yes. Is there still a lot of work to do, the answer is
yes," he said in an interview with CBC?sThe Exchange with Amanda Lang.
The company and its Canadian union agreed to further talks, he said.
"The discussion was about opportunities, rather than challenges. It?s the first discussion we?ve had with
General Motors about opportunities in a long time," he said.
New models?
Dias pressed GM to announce new models for the GM plant, which the automaker pledged to keep open until
2016 under terms of its 2009 bailout.
GM Canada CEO Stephen Carlisle has said no final decision on replacing those vehicles will be made until late
2016, when the costs have been studied and a new contract is in place with Unifor.
Analysts are pondering whether lack of a commitment means GM is contemplating pulling out of Canada
altogether. In any case, it could mean a long downtime for the plant as it retools for a new model.
The Oshawa plant employs about 3,600 Unifor members and helps create spinoff jobs in autoparts across
Ontario.
Dias says both the low dollar and the competitive wage rates Unifor has already negotiated for new hires create
a competitive environment for GM.
"Oshawa is the most flexible plant that GM has globally. If you take a look at the advantages we have here in
Canada ? universal medicare, a Canadian dollar that?s sitting at 80 cents, labour rates that are cheaper here
than in the U.S., this is a great place to do business," he said.
"On top of that, we won all the awards for the most competitive, best quality plant that they have anywhere on
the globe, so we should be the frontrunner."
Under the four-year contract, new hires start at 60 per cent of the regular hourly rate of $34 and take 10 years
to reach parity.
Dias says Canadian wages work out cheaper than those in the U.S., including the right-to-work states.
"The starting in wage for a new GM worker is $20 an hour. We have shown an argument where over the next
six years, which is the life of a product cycle, they?ll save $350 million on Oshawa alone," he said.
Aging workforce
In addition, many of the workers in GM?s Oshawa and St. Catharines plants are due for retirement, meaning
there is potential for a much cheaper workforce as new hires are brought in.
Camaro production moves from Oshawa to Lansing, Michigan at the end of this year, which could mean the
loss of up to 1000 jobs in the Oshawa, Ont. plant.
Dias said he made suggestions to GM that could help save some of those jobs, including ramping up
production of the Impala and the Equinox.
Canada?s share of North American production of cars and light trucks has fallen to 14.1 per cent in 2014 from
more than 17 per cent in 2009, as investment in Canada by the big automakers declines.
Canadian light vehicle production climbed slightly last year to 2.382 million units, according to auto analyst
Dennis DesRosiers.
Mexico, with 18.9 per cent of production, has overtaken Canada, formerly a powerhouse in the industry.
"You?re not going to compete on labour costs [in Mexico]," Dias said,
GM has committed $3.6 billion, on top of the $1.4 billion already invested, to double their production in Mexico
"The issue becomes that in Mexico, they never contributed one dime to the bailout of GM and Chrysler. I do
believe without any doubt that General Motors has an obligation to American and Canadian workers," he said.
© 2015 CBC. All Rights Reserved.
Length: 659 words
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Letter: Cartoon off the mark - GM - Oshawa Express
oshawaexpress.ca
Thu Feb 12 2015
View original item at www.oshawaexpress.ca...»
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Letter: GM Decision - Oshawa Express
oshawaexpress.ca
Thu Feb 12 2015
View original item at www.oshawaexpress.ca...»
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GM investment pays big dividends
The Owen Sound Sun Times
Thu Feb 12 2015
Page: C2
Section: Autonet
Byline: JEFF VOTH AUTONET
The Ontario government has announced the sale of its remaining shares in General Motors Co. Valued at $1.1
billion CDN.
The money will go directly to the Trillium Trust, for use in building a new generation of public infrastructure.
According to the official Ontario government release, this will improve the province's long-term
competitiveness, and will benefit all residents.
At a time when the only way to save General Motors was to invest billions both in Canada and the U.S., Ontario
took a chance. Though no one knew the eventual outcome would be positive, it appears to have been a good
bet as General Motors is stronger than ever and well positioned currently to take advantage of a strong market.
The total $1.1 billion realized from the sale will help fund the Moving Ontario Forward project and its $29 billion
plan to dramatically improve transportation in Ontario.
The sale of 36.7 million GM common shares was concluded over the past two weeks. In 2009, Canada and
Ontario invested $9.5 billion in General Motors Co. with Ontario being the only substantial jurisdiction in North
America to invest in the struggling automotive sector at the time. It is curious now that General Motors Canada
has gone quiet on any future plans they may have for the Oshawa Assembly plant once the current contracts
run out.
Charles Sousa, Minister of Finance states, "The Ontario government is proud to have been able to play an
important role in protecting thousands of jobs across the province through its support of the auto sector in
2009. Today's announcement marks an important step in unlocking the value of the province's assets to
continue to grow our economy and invest in public infrastructure for the well-being of all Ontarians."
[email protected]
© 2015 Osprey Media Group Inc. All rights reserved.
Edition: Final
Length: 287 words
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Bailout loss could have been worse
St. Thomas Times-Journal
Thu Feb 12 2015
Page: 7
Section: Editorial/Opinion
Byline: JOHN ROBSON, QMI AGENCY
Sometimes you have to be grateful for small mercies. Like when the Ontario government takes a big,
mysterious loss on its bailout stake in General Motors and you think "Man, that could have been a lot worse."
It was bad. They lost billions. But we don't know how bad, which is worse.
The provincial finance minister's office didn't bother with details like how many shares they sold or the sale
price. I mean, it's our money they squandered and took credit for squandering. Why keep us in the loop?
We know the province initially put $3.62 billion into GM and later got some back. Again, we don't know how
much. But the auditor general estimated last fall that Ottawa (which still holds a sizeable stake) and Queen's
Park between them would lose about $4 billion.
Now politicians may take the view when you're losing other people's money the details don't really matter. Or
possibly they think they shouldn't tell us in case we get mad. Either way it's not exactly transparency or
accountable self-government.
The Ontario government did apparently just pocket $1.1 billion in liquidating their share. And immediately
promised to spend every dime stimulating the economy rather than just throw away retiring debt or balancing
the budget. Again, bad.
So why am I happy? Because by the logic of the bailout, the province should have poured more money into GM
since it was successfully losing it.
If that strikes you as foolish, you probably shouldn't be in government. See, the whole rationale for the initial
bailout/investment thingy, provincial and federal, was if money-losing GM went under Canada would lose a key
wealth-producing asset. Whereas if the government poured in cash it would never see again, we would
become richer.
Obviously we outdated, hammer-headed free market types reject this argument. We say if a firm is creating
wealth, if it is creating good products for happy customers and, in the process, providing secure quality jobs, it
will automatically be worth a lot of money. That's how stock prices work. So if GM is a jewel in the economic
crown of Ontario, we say, the federal and provincial governments should have been able to sell their
investment and recoup our money.
In government it doesn't work like that. Instead, when something loses money, it's proof that it's mysteriously
creating wealth through spinoffs, stimulus effects and other things unknown to genuine economic science.
Whereas when it makes money, it's a selfish predator sucking the lifeblood out of communities.
You doubt me? Try whispering "for-profit health care" in the ear of a politician. Or listen to them boast, not
apologize, for dumping money into GM we will never see again.
That's why I'm happy in the face of this expensive, condescending nonsense. You see, in selling its GM share,
the provincial government didn't follow its own twisted logic. And they were certainly urged to by, among others,
Unifor, the big union representing many GM workers in Ontario.
GM has made it clear if something isn't done about excessive labour costs in Ontario, they'll have to relocate to
places they can make cars at a profit, not a loss. But Unifor urged the provincial and federal governments to
hang onto their GM share and use it to force the company to keep unprofitable Ontario factories running.
Sure, it's the old huckster's joke about losing money on every sale but making it up in volume. But it's also
exactly the argument that justified the initial bailout.
So yes. The transaction was murky, stupid, expensive and rationalized with bluff and bluster. But at least they
cut our losses, when the logic of their position was to continue them.
Small mercies? When they're all you've got, you take them.
© 2015 Sun Media Corporation. All rights reserved.
Edition: Final
Length: 620 words
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Ford sales up in China; GM sees decline
The Daily News (Nanaimo)
Thu Feb 12 2015
Page: C9
Section: Driving
Source: Detroit Free Press
Ford had a record sales month in China in January while General Motors saw sales decline.
Ford sales of 112,599 vehicles for last month is an increase of 19 per cent from a year ago for a company that
has been aggressively expanding its presence as it tries to catch up with the big players such as GM and
Volkswagen.
GM and its Chinese joint ventures sold 339,781 vehicles in China in January, down 2.4 per cent from 2014,
according to Reuters. GM sales rose almost 32 per cent in December and were up 12 per cent for the full year
in 2014.
Ford said its passenger car joint venture Changan Ford Automobile had its best January with 83,225 vehicles
sold, up 19 per cent.
For the Ford brand, the new Escort, Mondeo and Focus, all built in China, contributed to the January record
results.
Imported vehicles including the Ford Edge, Focus ST, Explorer, Fiesta ST and Mustang increased sales by 18
per cent. Mustang sales kicked off last month.
Edition: Final
Story Type: News
Length: 159 words
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What's it like to work at the auto show?; Being knowledgeable
about industry trends is vital to anyone staffing the floor
Toronto Star
Thu Feb 12 2015
Page: M11
Section: Special Section1
Byline: Jim Martyn Special to the Star
The Canadian International Auto Show is the culmination of new ideas, designs, shapes, colours and electric
concepts created by people who want to see how fast and far they can get in front of the curve.
But to get to that last step in the puzzle takes several turns that most auto show visitors will never see, as well
as days, often months, of preparation.
From my perspective as a representative of General Motors, and that of most of the other people working on
the show floor, when the audience (who are potential customers) arrives, the game is nearly over.
Show Day is the last inning. Preparation starts before the last big show of the season a year previously was
even over. You start thinking about how to make everything more appealing, interesting, informative and - most
of all - fun.
You think about the sets, the stages, the staff, training, vehicles, videos, displays, carpeting - and then, almost
before you know it, the doors swing open.
Answering all of the questions, getting the most-engaging responses and encouraging a potential buyer to stop
at a dealership in their hometown is the home run everyone swings for at the show.
Every exhibit staff member, if they're going to be "in the game," has got to be approachable, be engaging,
make a good impression and (the one that takes the most work) have the right answer. To everything. Even if
the answer is, "Let's find out."
To get that far, in my experience, involves 365 days of training. Yes, a full year. It's daily work - keeping on top
of the industry, our brand, and, if we can find time, our competitors' too.
It's the biggest challenge of the show season. If you're beside a Cadillac, visitors will often ask about a Benz;
the staff members beside the Volt have to be well versed on the merits of Tesla. And go ahead: ask me about
the Corvette.
But that's just the start.
At General Motors, management gets the entire team together before the Christmas-New Year's holidays for a
week of serious training at corporate headquarters in Oshawa.
Each day, we are reminded that we are "the face of General Motors." If, by chance, that hasn't sunk in by the
end of training, the first day of the auto show serves as a reminder.
Everyone on hand does the best they can to know everything about the product, the features and the benefits
of owning and how best to convey that message to everyone who approaches you - from the 5-year-old who's
taking mom and dad for a tour of the cargo space of an SUV to the sharply dressed gentleman who wants to be
assured that the stitching on the dashboard leather is up to his standards.
It really does take all kinds to keep the up-to-12-hour days on the show floor interesting. It's the variety that
makes it fun for the staff - not just the cars but the people, too.
The best are the folks who come to a car show because they're like us, enthusiasts.
They test your limits hourly in search of a nugget of information their best friend didn't get out of you yesterday.
And honestly, now and then, they beat us. We're only human.
At the other end of the scale - well, it does take all kinds. They just want to stump us, whether they're a fan of
something out of this world (like a multimillion-dollar dream machine) or the defender of their grandmother's 60year-old jalopy that "for some reason," the company won't fix under warranty even though she drove it for 37
years and put about a zillion kilometres on it before going to her great reward half-a-dozen years ago.
Somewhere in between the two extremes are the 95 per cent who come to the auto show to see what there is
to see.
If they have an interest in something, we'll try to help explain why; if they've yet to find something, we'll do our
best to point them in the right direction. Our job, like everyone else's on the floor, is to make everyone's visit
worthwhile.
I got into the business more than a decade ago because I love cars and I love talking to people.
And best of all, just about every five minutes at the Canadian International auto show, I can have the privilege
of hearing somebody say, "Thanks."
Now, about my aching feet . . .
Jim Martyn is a veteran of auto industry trade shows and auto racing. He is the chief announcer at Canadian
Tire Motorsport Park. This is his first contribution to Toronto Star Wheels. For more automotive news, go to
thestar.com/autos. To reach Wheels Editor Norris McDonald: [email protected]
© 2015 Torstar Corporation
Illustration:
• Jim Martyn, right, enjoys the chance to converse with auto show visitors, such as Kirk Bennion during last year's show.
Edition: ONT
Length: 792 words
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A look at the 90-year-old Milford Proving Ground
Hamilton Spectator
Thu Feb 12 2015
Page: WH9
Section: Wheels
Byline: Metroland Media
To develop performance cars, automakers depend on fundamental analysis, but it's the test tracks and road
courses that bring out the best in a vehicle.
The collection of roadways assembled at the 90-year-old Milford Proving Ground runs more than 225
kilometres and covers parts of two Michigan counties.
General Motors has other proving ground facilities including in Lang Lang, Australia, Shanghai and Yuma,
Ariz.To get these powerful cars ready for track days as well as day-to-day driving, Milford Proving Ground
employs test tracks including:
The North South Straight Away - Built in 1955, it provides a three-lane, five-kilometre road without twists so that
a car can reach its maximum speed. There is a high-speed turnaround on either end of the straightaway.
The Milford Road Course - Developed in 2003 under the leadership of Bob Lutz, the former GM vice chair who
wanted the proving ground to have a road course to emulate specific sections of racetracks around the world.
The 4.5-kilometre course consists of 17 turns, each designed to test specific performance requirements along
with significant elevation changes to ensure the vehicle performs under all suspension and aerodynamic-load
conditions.
© 2015 Torstar Corporation
Illustration:
• The 90-year-old Milford Proving Ground is a significant part of GM performance testing.
Edition: First
Length: 186 words
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General Motors Product News
Colorado '2015 Truck of the Year'; 'Motor Trend' magazine gave it
top honour, perhaps because it signals return of the mid-size
pickup
The Daily News (Nanaimo)
Thu Feb 12 2015
Page: C1 / Front
Section: Driving
Byline: Alan McPhee
Column: Auto Insider
Source: Daily News
Motor Trend magazine has just named the all new Chevrolet Colorado "2015 Truck of the Year."
It came out on top in a comparison shootout that included its big brothers the Silverado and Sierra, the Ford F450, F-150 and Ford Transit van. An odd selection but contenders had to be new or substantially new for 2015.
The editors judged them in six areas: Advancement in Design; Engineering Excellence; Efficiency; Safety;
Value and Performance of Intended Function.
When the dust settled and the scores were counted the Chevrolet Colorado took the top honour, not least
perhaps, because it signals the return of the mid-size pickup.
For years, Ford Ranger, Dodge Dakota, Nissan Frontier, Mazda B-Series and the Colorado/Canyon twins
provided a smaller alternative to the Big Three's full-size pickups. But the big pickups got bigger, making the
smaller trucks seem even smaller and less useful until most simply disappeared. Today, after an absence of
three years, the Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon return -larger, smarter, safer and more efficient than
ever - and of course, bigger.
While those previous trucks had an average wheelbase under 3,000 mm. (120-in.), and an overall length of
about 5,000 mm.
(196-in.), the new Colorado is built with a 3,258 mm. (128.3-inch) wheelbase and an overall length of 5,402
mm. (212-in.).
The extra wheelbase length pays dividends in the quality of the ride while the longer body adds additional cabin
space, comfort and convenience.
Unlike the big trucks, the Colorado keeps things simple with just extended cab or crew cab body styles, two
beds (short, 62-in. and long, 74-in.) and two engine choices with either 2WD or 4WD. There are four models to
choose from starting with the $21,695, 2WD Base Colorado equipped with the 2.5-litre, four-cylinder engine,
followed by the WT, LT and Z71.Our tester was the Colorado LT Crew Cab 4WD with long box, finished in
Cyber Grey Metallic with
Black Cloth upholstery. A 305 horsepower, Direct Injection V6 resides under the hood pumping out a reliable
269 ft-lb. of torque while the base engine is a 200 horsepower, 4-cylinder that produces 191 ft-lb. of torque. All
models come with GM's Hydramatic, 6-speed automatic transmission.
Chevrolet designers wanted the Colorado to look 'different' from its big brothers and took some cues from the
passenger car line.
The upper grille borrows the single horizontal chrome bar from the Cruze with a bold 'bow tie' logo in the middle
while the body-colour lower fascia features a wide air intake flanked by deep cut-outs for the optional fog lights.
The steeply angled windshield and sloping roofline give the cabin an almost coupe-like shape that is quite
different from the usual boxy pickup cabs.
Flared and shaved wheel wells frame 17-inch blade silver, metallic cast aluminium wheels adding a sporty
character that suggests this pickup is ready for work or play.
One Motor Trend editor said, "The entire time I was driving (it) I was resisting the urge to dive off the road into
the dirt and practice for the Baja 1000. It felt so light and capable I just wanted to tear across the desert with it."
Another commented, "The Colorado has the best steering I've ever experienced on any truck, full stop."
The nimble handling is thanks to a combination of factors starting with the firm independent front suspension
featuring coil springs over twin-tube shock absorbers and the solid rear axle with semi-elliptic two-stage multileaf springs with twin-tube shock absorbers. Add the variable-assist electric power steering and GM's exclusive
StabiliTrak electronic stability control with Traction Control and the result is a firm and stable ride with very little
lean in cornering manoeuvres. One thing I like about today's V6 engines is that they not only deliver V8
performance, they even sound like V8s. The Colorado's 305 horses come alive as soon as you press the loud
pedal. Acceleration is smooth and consistent with 100 km/h showing up in under eight seconds.
On the highway engine noise is reduced to limo levels with the Colorado sipping just 9.8 L/100 km. The
Colorado's electronic 4WD system is controlled by a simple dial on dash that lets you select 2WD, 4WD Hi,
4WD Lo and Locked for really tough off-road conditions. The system automatically shifts from 2WD to 4WD Hi
when wheel slippage is detected. Our LT 4WD model sits a bit higher off the ground so I would certainly opt for
the Off Road Assist Steps. A grab handle on the driver's side would also be helpful. The rear doors open wide
allowing easy access to the second row seats.
The front bucket seats are well formed to give good under thigh and torso support with four-way power
adjustment for the driver. Full instrumentation includes six months OnStar Directions and Connections with
Automatic Crash Response, Turn-by-Turn Navigation plus the five-year OnStar Basic Plan. You're totally
connected via the eight-inch colour touch screen for Chevrolet's MyLink Infotainment System with voiceactivated technology for radio and Bluetooth phone.
The Colorado also comes with 4G LTE Wi-Fi hot spot with 3 months/3 GB Data Trial. The screen also doubles
as your rear-view camera. Our tester came with the optional EZ-Lift tailgate; auto-locking rear differential; HD
Trailering Package; moulded fr/rr splash guards; Bose, Premium six-speaker system and engine block heater.
Standard equipment includes rear bumper with corner step and locking tailgate; power, remote outside mirrors
with driver's 'spotter mirror'; A/C; cruise control; driver information centre; remote keyless entry; power windows
with driver express up/down and Tire Pressure Monitoring System. Dual stage front seat airbags plus side
mounted seat airbags for outboard occupants plus head curtain airbags are standard along with the LATCH
system for child seat anchors.
The editors of Motor Trend summed it up this way: "No contender that we tested excelled in all six of our
judging criteria to the extent the Colorado did. It's well designed and thoughtfully engineered. .. it should go on
the shopping list of people who want the utility of a pickup but not the grandiose size."
Alan McPhee is a Canadian automotive journalist and is former editor of Carguide Magazine. His articles
appear each week in this space.
Bottom line
COLORADO LT 4WD CREW CAB
Type: mid-size pickup
Engine: 3.6-litre, DOHC V6
Horsepower: 305 @6800 rpm
Torque: 269 lb-ft @4000 rpm
Fuel economy: 13.5/9.8, city/highway, L/100 km
Base price: $34,000
Price as tested: $39,120
Vehicle provided by Laird Wheaton
Illustration:
• Alan McPhee, For The Daily News / Chevrolet designers wanted the Colorado to look 'different' from its big brothers and took
some cues from the passenger car line.
• / (See hardcopy for photo)
Edition: Final
Story Type: Column
Length: 1048 words
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2015 Chevy Colorado delivers; Capable little truck drives like a SUV
Windsor Star
Thu Feb 12 2015
Page: C1 / Front
Section: Driving
Byline: Derek McNaughton
Source: The Windsor Star
For too long, the mid-size truck market has been dominated by one player: the Toyota Tacoma. It also didn't
hurt that precious little else was offered in this class: the Ford Ranger sauntered off to pasture long ago, the
Nissan Frontier mostly withered on the vine, and the too-small GMC Canyon and Chevrolet Colorado retired in
2012.
What was a mid-size truck buyer to do? To be sure, not everyone who needs a truck wants a full-sized vehicle.
They're big, cumbersome and mostly thirsty - like wearing a pair of heavy, steel-toed boots every day. So, with
limited competition and a pent-up demand, GM has returned to the segment with its 2015 Chevrolet Colorado
and GMC Canyon siblings - and none too soon, because the next-generation Tacoma and Frontier are already
on the horizon.
The Colorado, first and foremost, is not a Silverado that spent too long on tumble dry. Oh, sure, there are
identical interior components, most notably the colour touch screen centre infotainment system.
The "cornersteps" in the bumper work better in the Colorado, though, because the truck sits lower than a
Silverado. And, at under six feet tall, this truck will fit in most underground parking garages. More pleasing, the
Colorado drives like an SUV, perhaps a little like a CUV, even. Visibility is good, urban driving is simple. It
steers well and feels almost nimble. And yet, for all its demure drivability, it remains capable. A fully boxed
frame supports either an extended cab, or a crew cab with seating for five.
The crew cab can be had with either a 5-foot-2-inch short bed, or 6-foot-2-inch long bed. Carrying eight-foot
lumber in the long box with the tailgate down means nothing hangs over. The tailgate on our Z71-packaged
truck was damped, too, so it dropped gently, though it does not unlock and open with the key fob. Width of the
bed is 44.4 inches between wheel housings and 57.8 inches at the floor.
The only cargo light is attached to the cab, and it's not LED. Same for interior lighting with filament bulbs.
Fully in the current decade are the Colorado's engine choices: a standard 2.5 litre with 200 horsepower or a
new, optional 3.6-L V6 with 305 hp and 269 pound-feet of torque.
The 3.6 L is standard on crew cab long-box models and crew cab short-box models with 4x4. With this engine,
the Colorado is rated to tow 7,000 lbs. Power is ample enough when empty, and 100 km/h can be reached in
about 7.5 seconds. The sixspeed automatic shifts smartly (a six-speed manual is available on base models)
and the four-wheel discs (with Duralife rotors) rein in speed abruptly. Engine vibration is mostly controlled and
full-throttle acceleration feels brisk, though, peak torque arrives at 4,000 rpm. Wind noise is not intrusive.
Observed fuel economy was higher than the official rating for the V6, with an overall average of 13.5 litres per
100 kilometres. Our city economy, however, did exceed 20 L/100 km on several occasions (with some idling)
but rang in with a low of 10.5 highway when travelling at a steady 100 km/h. At 120 km/h, fuel economy
climbed closer to 12.
Overview: Four-door truck with long box and 4WD that's easy to drive
Pros: Smaller than a fullsized light-duty truck but still capable
Cons: No big price advantage or substantial fuel economy gain
© 2015 Postmedia Network Inc. All rights reserved.
Illustration:
• Derek McNaughton, Driving / The 2015 Chevrolet Colorado has a smart appearance with good mechanical performance.
Edition: Early
Story Type: News
Length: 548 words
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Three all-new trucks to debut at auto show
Toronto Star
Thu Feb 12 2015
Page: M14
Section: Special Section1
Byline: Jil McIntosh
general
motors
Colorado and Canyon.
noted
on
Thu
Feb
12
2015
5:51
am
ET
If you're a fan of pickup trucks, these are exciting times.
Three all-new trucks are making their Canadian debuts at the Canadian International Auto Show, which opens
to the public on Friday, along with all of the models currently available at dealers.
Ford will have its 2015 F-150, which recently hit showrooms and is making waves with the first all-aluminum
body on a production pickup.
But the real news is the ultimate bad boy, the 2017 F-150 Raptor, fresh off its world premiere earlier this year at
Detroit's auto show. Yes, there's now a turbocharged V6 under the hood, but we're talking 450 horsepower
here. That's almost 40 more ponies than the outgoing 2014 Raptor's V8, which should really get this lighterweight version moving.
Ford's also promising better traction, tougher shocks, and way more fun. General Motors is showcasing its new
2015 mid-size trucks, the Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon. They share only their names with the
company's previous compact-truck offerings, and for many drivers they're a great alternative to a full-size truck.
They're easier to get in and out of, to reach in and grab cargo, or to park. As well, there's the fuel savings.
Mechanically identical to each other, the Colorado and Canyon differ in their styling and trim, although both
have roomy interiors, numerous standard features, and even an available Wi-Fi hot spot.
Their big brothers will also be on display: the Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra, in both light- and heavyduty configuration.
Nissan also made a splash at the Detroit show last month, when it took the wraps off its all-new 2016 Titan XD.
The Titan will offer three engine choices, including the model's first-ever V6, but what you'll see in Toronto is all
about grunt: a 5.0-L Cummins V8 turbo diesel that'll crank out 310 horsepower and 555 lb.-ft. of torque.
That's far more than most buyers will ever need, but Nissan has a plan for this big truck. It straddles the line
between light-duty and heavy-duty trucks, and could be the answer for commercial customers who need the
capability, but with pricing that's closer to that of a lighter-duty pickup. At the other end of the scale is the
Frontier, Nissan's sturdy and smaller mid-size truck, which will also be shown in the company's display.
Ram presents a truck that also debuted earlier this year in Detroit - the Ram Rebel. Based on the Ram 1500,
the Rebel is ready for off-road with a lift kit, air suspension, 33-inch tires and skid plates.
But what you really notice is the styling, with an enormous blacked-out grille, twin hood scoops, flat black trim
and RAM stamped in giant letters across the tailgate. Take a look inside, too: the seat inserts are moulded to
match the tread pattern on the tires.
There will be regular Ram models in the booth as well, including the 1500 EcoDiesel with V6 diesel engine,
2500 Mega Cab, and 3500 Heavy-Duty dually.
Toyota has announced an all-new Tacoma mid-size truck, but you're going to have to wait a little longer to see
it in the flesh. In the meantime, the current Tacoma is on display.
It's joined by the full-size Tundra, which was redesigned for 2014 with new exterior and interior styling, along
with suspension improvements. Have a look at the seriously luxurious 1794 Edition, too.
The name refers to the founding date of the JLC Ranch in San Antonio, Texas, now the home of the plant that
builds the Tundra.
© 2015 Torstar Corporation
Illustration:
• The 2015 Ford F-150 now has an aluminum body, mounted on a frame made of high-strength steel for weight savings, increased
capacity and better fuel economy. The new Toyota Tacoma will be part of the company's display at the Toronto auto show. Jil
McIntosh for the Toronto Star Carlos Osorio/Toronto Star
Edition: ONT
Length: 566 words
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Chevrolet is taking the Silverado to the next level
Hamilton Spectator
Thu Feb 12 2015
Page: WH6
Section: Wheels
Byline: Metroland Media
Fans of the 2015 Silverado know that a robust 4x4 drivetrain and an exclusive Eaton Automatic Locking Rear
Differential are key to tackling Canada's extreme driving conditions.
With the introduction of the new Midnight special edition, Chevrolet is taking the Silverado to the next level of
capability and confidence.
To match the upgraded driving performance, Chevrolet has enhanced the exterior styling with a sinister black
appearance, that comes equipped with a rugged tire featuring the industry's severe snow rating.
Beginning with a black Silverado Z71, the Midnight special edition adds:
An all-black front end with body-coloured grille, bumper, headlamp bezels, tow hooks and fog lamps;
Black side mouldings and beltline mouldings;
18-inch black painted alloy wheels
Aggressive Goodyear Wrangler DuraTrac all-terrain tires
Special Z71 badges on the doors;
A spray-in bedliner (black, of course);
Black Chevrolet bow ties front and rear.
Like all 2015 Silverado 1500 Z71s, Midnight special editions include Rancho Monotube Shocks, a locking rear
differential, Hill Descent Control and a trailering package. Midnight special editions also include rear park assist
and heated, power-adjusted outside rear-view mirrors.
Chevrolet will offer the Silverado Midnight special edition in either 1500 double-cab or crew-cab models.
The Midnight special editions will be a limited production offering for the 2015 model year.
Dealers can order the trucks starting in February 2015.
© 2015 Torstar Corporation
Illustration:
• The 2015 Chevrolet Silverdale Midnight special edition is engineered for Canada.
Edition: First
Length: 213 words
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GM to confirm Bolt production for Michigan
The Daily News (Nanaimo)
Thu Feb 12 2015
Page: C7
Section: Driving
Byline: Alisa Priddle
Dateline: DETROIT
Source: Detroit Free Press
General Motors will use next week's Chicago Auto Show to announce that the Chevrolet Bolt all-electric car will
be built at the Orion Assembly plant in Lake Orion, Mich.
The Bolt concept was first unveiled in January at the 2015 North American International Auto Show. The small
car will have a 200-mile range and is designed to compete with the Tesla 3 as both vehicles could hit the
market in 2017.
Media days for the Chicago Auto Show begin Thursday with an opening address by Alan Batey, president of
GM North America. There are also two Chevrolet press conferences scheduled over the two press days. An
updated Equinox will be unveiled as well as other product news.
The Bolt complements an electrified lineup that already includes the Chevrolet Volt, which is an extendedrange hybrid, meaning there is a gasoline engine generator to extend the range of the vehicle when the battery
charge is depleted. GM also sells the tiny all-electric Spark EV in California and Oregon.
GM is expected to confirm that the Bolt will be built at the Orion Assembly alongside the Sonic which could also
introduce an all-electric version as part of its next-generation lineup. An electric Sonic could replace the smaller
Spark EV in Chevrolet's portfolio. A GM spokesman declined comment on future product plans. In November
GM announced a $160 million investment at the Orion plant to prepare to build an unnamed future vehicle. The
Bolt is a small car, as are the Sonic and the Buick Verano that are currently assembled in Orion.
Edition: Final
Story Type: News
Length: 254 words
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Trying to keep up in a crowded market; Equinox has been a
success in Canada and the changes to the premium models should
keep sales humming along
The Globe and Mail
Thu Feb 12 2015
Page: D10
Section: Drive
Byline: NEIL VORANO
TECH SPECS
Base price: $26,405 (current model)
Engines: 2.4-litre four-cylinder, 3.6-litre V-6
Transmission: Six-speed automatic
Fuel economy (litres/100 km): Not available
Alternatives: Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Ford Escape, Nissan Rogue, Mazda CX-5, Kia Sportage, Hyundai
Santa Fe
Quick question: what's the best-selling Chevrolet vehicle in North America? If you said the Silverado, well,
that's easy - pickups are hot these days. Okay, what's the second-biggest seller for Chevy? The Equinox
compact crossover. When you think about it, that's obvious, too; the compact crossover segment is exploding
here right now and, in Canada, it's set to take over from compact cars as the biggest vehicle market.
So, the Equinox is important for the Detroit brand, then, and Chevrolet has sold more than one million of its
second-generation Equinox since it debuted in 2010. And now, the revised 2016 model takes its bow at the
Canadian International Auto Show here in Toronto, as well as the Chicago Auto Show south of the border.
This isn't an all-new model; that isn't expected for another two years or so. But Chevrolet has tweaked a few
areas to give it a little refresh in hopes of keeping it a hot commodity in this crowded market. The most
noticeable changes focus on more premium styling and safety.
The lineup now consists of the LS, LT and LTZ; the front and rear fascias on every model have been refined,
with a new, dual-level grille more in line with the Cruze.
The whole lineup gets projectorbeam headlamps, while the upscale LT and LTZ models get LED running lights
for more bling; the LTZ also gets new fog lamps. In the rear, the tail lights are now the signature dual-element
design that are featured on other Chevy cars. The higher trim levels also get added chrome accents. New
wheel designs will also be offered, and the V-6 model gets chrome exhaust vents.
Beyond appearance, Chevrolet has added a host of safety and convenience features. Most notably, standard
on all models will be a backup camera; base models get a new seven-inch colour monitor for the infotainment
system. That nestles into a revised centre stack with more storage and updated control graphics.
Available on the LT and LTZ models will now be a blind-zone alert and rear cross traffic sensor; these join other
safety features currently available, such as forward collision alert and lane departure warning.
What's not changed? Chevy is sticking with the base 182-horsepower, 2.4-litre four cylinder and the optional
301-hp, 3.6-litre V-6, with both coupled to a six-speed transmission and optional allwheel drive.
Unfortunately for consumers, we won't see the new Equinox in showrooms until the fall. Prices haven't been
released yet but expect the 2016 version to be around the $26,405 starting price of the current model.
RATINGS LOOKS
This model debuted in 2010 and, though it's not unattractive, it is starting to show its age.
INTERIOR
The Equinox interior will benefit from a revised centre stack, new chromeaccent gear shifter and new seat
materials if it wants to keep up with other newer models.
PERFORMANCE
The 2.4L is frugal but works hard at accelerating this larger-than-compact SUV. The 3.6L is certainly not fuel
efficient but is able to tow up to 1,588 kilograms.
TECH
The additions of a rearview camera and other safety features will help bring the Equinox on par with others in
the class. All models have the option of OnStar with a 4G LTE connectivity and a WiFi hotspot.
CARGO
Despite being larger than other compact crossovers, the Equinox still has less cargo room than most, with a
total of 889 litres; the Toyota RAV4, for example, has 1,090 litres.
THE VERDICT 7.0 The refresh will help keep the Equinox in the market, but it's more of a stop-gap until a new
version arrives. Having said that, this model is still a viable alternative that offers comfort, good handling and
reliability.
YOU'LL LIKE THIS CAR IF You want a solid domestic crossover for the family.
ONLINE Prototype Charles Bombardier's latest imaginary concept vehicle, posted on the weekend.
globedrive.com
© 2015 The Globe and Mail Inc. All Rights Reserved.
Edition: Ontario
Length: 667 words
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Chevrolet hints big changes are in store for look of Equinox
The Daily News (Nanaimo)
Thu Feb 12 2015
Page: C2
Section: Driving
Source: Daily News
All we can see is a fender and headlight, but it does signal big changes are afoot for a popular family crossover
SUV.
General Motors will reveal the new Chevrolet Equinox next week, one of its hotter-selling vehicles right now, at
the Chicago Auto Show. The show will largely be about crossovers, with a new Chevrolet Pilot and Acura RDX
also being revealed.
The selldown on the Equinox has begun at Chevy dealers. GM pointed to Equinox as one of its stars when it
came to a 36 per cent sales increase in sales of crossovers and SUVs last month, up 36 per cent from the
same month a year ago.
Edition: Final
Story Type: News
Length: 109 words
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2015 Corvette Stingray Convertible - WHEELS.ca
wheels.ca
Thu Feb 12 2015
View original item at www.wheels.ca...»
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