The Chevrolet Camaro's Takeover At The 2016 Woodward Dream Cruise

Last weekend, the 22nd Annual Woodward Dream Cruise- the world’s largest one-day auto event- took place in Detroit. This event, which has been hosted by Chevrolet the last six years, draws in 1.5 million car lovers and 40,000 classic cars to cruise down Woodward Avenue each year. This year was especially exciting for Chevrolet, who thought no better time to celebrate the 50th anniversary of its beloved Camaro than the Cruise.

“Dream Cruise is such a big momentous event, which is right in the wheelhouse of what these people like to do. It just felt right.” Todd Christensen, Chevrolet marketing manager, told Detroit News.

To kick off the weekend early, Chevrolet opened up the Lansing Grand River Assembly on Thursday so that Camaro fanatics could get a peek at the current home of production for the Chevrolet Camaro. The following morning, a “Camaros and Coffee” gathering took place before the parade of about 200 Camaro’s made their way from the Renaissance Center (GM’s headquarters) and down Woodward Avenue. Finally, on Saturday, Chevrolet had a special heritage collection at its display, where Camaro fanatics were able to check out rare and milestone models from the muscle car’s six generations (including the new 2017 Camaro ZL1 and 1LE).

Chevrolet definitely celebrated the right way this weekend at the 2016 Woodward Dream Cruise! And good news: The 2017 Camaro ZL1 and 1LE are now available for order! We’ll let you know when they arrive.

Chevy's Smallest Crossover Making A Big Impression In The U.S.

Chevrolet’s smallest crossover is making a big impression on car shoppers in America. The Chevrolet Trax was introduced to the U.S. in its 2015 model year and has since experienced an impressive couple years of sales…especially this year.This past July, the Trax had its best month yet- selling a total of 9,466 models- a 54.9% increase from the same period last year. In an overall comparison, the Trax has seen a 24.82% sales growth year-over-year.

Redesigned for 2017, the Chevrolet Trax has been modified to fit the current Chevy SUV lineup, with a sporty and refreshed look. Steve Majoros, director of marketing at Chevrolet Cars and Crossovers, stated “The 2017 Chevrolet Trax offers advanced technology, premium features and comprehensive safety in a small SUV package. The Trax is positioned to deliver exactly what our customers want: the latest technologies in the fastest-growing segment in the industry.”

Some exterior updates coming to the 2017 Trax include an all-new front end, a premier model to replace the LTZ model, a new rear-fascia and sculpted taillamps and newly-designed 18-inch aluminum wheels. As far as the interior goes, a premium interior will be centered around an entirely new instrument panel. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto will be compatible with the Chevy MyLink 7-inch diagonal color touch radio and keyless open and start have been added.

The 2017 Trax will be offered at an excellent price and headed to lots sometime this fall! We hope you will come check it out at Jim Butler Chevrolet in St. Louis, MO!

Why Does My Vehicle's Wheel Alignment Matter?

At Jim Butler Chevrolet, we know that your vehicle’s performance matters. It turns out that your vehicle’s wheel alignment can greatly effect its performance—listen to the experts from Chevrolet’s service department explain just how this happens! Head to http://www.jimbutlerchevrolet.com/ServiceApptForm to schedule a service appointment today!

Chevrolet’s Special Edition SUVs Keep Getting Better

Due to the success of Chevrolet’s Midnight Edition 2016 Trax, they have now expanded the special-edition features to other SUVs in their lineup. The 2017 Equinox is available in Midnight Edition and Summit White Sport edition, in addition to the 2017 Traverse, which is available in a Graphite Edition. All models are currently on sale. 

Betsy Flegg, senior manager of Chevrolet SUVs stated, “Special editions resonate with buyers, offering a unique package with unique looks. We’ve already seen a strong interest with the Trax Midnight Edition when we announced production last December. We anticipate customers will strongly like the looks of the new Equinox Midnight and Sport Editions and Traverse Graphite Edition.” 

Both special-editions of the Equinox will be available on the LT model and require the Convenience Package. Features include a black grille and black Chevrolet bowties, black 18-inch aluminum wheels, jet-black perforated leather-appointed seats with memory seating and black mirror caps and roof rack crossbars. 

The Traverse is offered exclusively on the 2LT model and features the exterior colors of Mosaic Black Metallic, Siren Red Tintcoat and Iridescent Pearl Tricoat with 20-inch Dark Charcoal wheels and black Chevrolet bowties. Additionally, the Traverse will have a dual exhaust and integrated assist step.

The Equinox and Traverse are both popular crossover SUVs known for their spacious interiors and comfortable rides. To check out these special-editions for yourself, come visit us at Jim Butler Chevy in St. Louis, MO! 

The 2017 Corvette Grand Sport is the Sports Car of Our Dreams

At the end of this summer, Chevrolet plans to release the newest edition of its beloved Corvette Grand Sport. Chevy’s Corvette comes in three models: the Stingray, known for its quality and affordable price; the Z06, equipped with the enormous Z06 engine, automatic transmission, and convertible top; and finally the Grand Sport, which falls somewhere in between the two. 

As St. Louis ‘Vette enthusiasts may know, the Grand Sport got its start in 1960 when Zora Arkus-Duntov (fondly referred to as “the Corvette Godfather”) and legendary driver Briggs Cunningham entered three Corvettes into Le Mans. While their Corvette won its class and brought home 8th overall, GM nixed it and only very few vehicles made it out to customers. In 1984, Chevrolet came close to the Grand Sport with its Z51 package; however it wasn’t until 1996 that the Grand Sport was officially produced.

Over 50 years after the legend began, Chevrolet will introduce its followers to the newest edition of its Grand Sport. This model will feature bigger wheels, Michelin pilot Super Sport tires, Brembo brakes reminiscent of those on the Z06, wider rear fenders, special grille inserts, stiffer spring rates, and an electronic limited-slip differential. It has a LT1 V8 engine rated at 460 lb-ft of torque and comes in either a 7-speed manual or 8-speed automatic editions. Standard on this vehicle is GM’s sophisticated Magnetic Ride Control.

The Grand Sport offers all of the fun of the Z06 without the intimidation factor that is sometimes associated with it. It soars around the tracks, proficiently handling curves like the sports car it was intended to be. Chevy has stated that the Grand Sport is capable of reaching 60 mph in 3.6 seconds. Like Porsche’s 918 Spyder, the Grand Sport (equipped with the Z06 package) is predicted to go from 60-0 mph in less than 100 feet. Unlike the 918 Spyder, it’s price will be significantly less than a million dollars.

Thrill-seekers and Chevrolet enthusiasts alike should definitely check out the 2017 Corvette Grand Sport when it comes to Jim Butler Chevrolet at the end of the summer. We hope you’re as excited for the release of this new vehicle as we are!