Monday, November 11, 2024

Family-Sized & Always Adventure-Ready: How the 2025 Chevy Suburban Takes It to the Next Level

2025 Chevy Suburban

The 2025 Chevrolet Suburban combines strength and spaciousness, making it ideal for families who need plenty of room, reliable power, and flexibility for everyday adventures. Minivans might suit some families with their compact size and fuel efficiency, but the 2025 Suburban is built for those who need more. Perfect for boat or camper owners or anyone ready for a road trip with a full crew, it seats up to nine people comfortably. 

With 42 cubic feet of cargo space and a towing capacity of 8,200 pounds, the Suburban brings room and power. At Jim Butler Chevy of St. Louis, we’re excited because it gets even better with some exciting updates.

From the base LS to the higher trims like the LT, RST, Premier, Z71, and High Country, the Suburban is designed to handle everything from people and gear to towing heavy loads. Higher trims offer added features that enhance space, comfort, and power, providing seating for eight or seven in the luxury options. These trims deliver ample interior room and robust capability, perfect for those who prioritize a premium experience. 

With the strenuous holiday hustle in full swing, having a spacious hauler is perfect for everything from picking up a fresh-cut tree to tackling all those seasonal sales with ease! For families needing more space, the Suburban offers exceptional rear-seat room and ample cargo capacity, making it a standout choice. While the Tahoe excels in towing and payload, the Suburban provides even greater versatility for those looking to accommodate more passengers and gear. 

What’s New for 2025?

The 2025 Suburban builds on the 2021 redesign with several key updates. The biggest upgrade is the new second-gen turbodiesel inline-six engine, now producing 305 horsepower and 495 lb-ft of torque, up from 277 hp and 460 lb-ft. This makes the diesel option the torque leader in the lineup, surpassing the 6.2-liter V8 (460 lb-ft). For the first time, the diesel engine is available on the off-road-ready Z71 trim, which joins the RST and Premier trims in offering this powertrain.

Other updates for 2025 include a refreshed suspension with new 24-inch wheels available on the RST and High Country trims. These wheels required adjustments to the Suburban’s adaptive dampers and air suspension to handle the additional weight. Chevy made changes based on owner feedback to enhance the ride across all air-suspension-equipped models. There’s also a new steering calibration for better feedback, making the driving experience smoother.

Outside, the Suburban’s new dynamic LED lighting brings style with sweeping turn signals and eye-catching approach animations. Step inside, and you’ll find a huge 17.7-inch touchscreen and a sleek digital gauge cluster, now upgraded with Google Built-In features like Google Maps, an app store, and voice control—all set for your busy life. The redesigned dashboard adds a modern touch, with easy-to-reach climate controls just below, making every drive more intuitive and connected. 

The Ride

Starting with the entry-level Suburban LS, this trim comes with passive shocks and springs and seats up to nine people. With 18-inch wheels and standard tires, the ride is surprisingly smooth, absorbing bumps with ease thanks to the long wheelbase. The ride feels stable, even though it may feel a touch firm at times.

Moving up to the adaptive dampers, as seen on the Suburban RST, the ride gets even better. These dampers make the ride smoother, soaking up impacts effortlessly. With the 22-inch wheels, the suspension adjustments make the Suburban even more comfortable. Adding the air suspension takes it a step further, providing height adjustments for everything from easy loading to off-road capabilities.

Opting for the bold 24-inch wheels gives the Suburban a striking look and a smooth, balanced ride on well-maintained roads. On rougher terrain, the suspension adapts beautifully to keep things comfortable, while the larger wheels add a stylish edge that enhances the vehicle’s presence wherever you drive. 

The Diesel Engine: A Game Changer

The new diesel engine is a serious upgrade, especially when paired with the Suburban’s full air suspension. The diesel engine makes the Suburban accelerate smoothly with no sluggishness, thanks to its impressive low-end torque. Paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, shifts are precise, and the Suburban can smoothly accelerate. With an estimated range of over 700 miles per tank, this diesel engine is ready for long road trips.

The diesel-powered Suburban Z71 truly stands out, blending 20-inch wheels, all-terrain tires, and specialized chassis tuning for a smooth and capable ride across both road and off-road terrain. This Z71 diesel combines power with comfort, making it an ideal choice for adventure enthusiasts. The previous diesel model achieved an impressive 27 mpg on the highway, and the new version is set to build on that efficiency. 

Performance vs. Comfort: Tahoe vs. Suburban

For those looking for a more performance-driven SUV, the Tahoe RST Performance Edition offers sportier handling with its 6.2-liter V8, Brembo front brakes, and sportier suspension. However, the Suburban doesn’t offer a Performance Edition. For most, the Suburban’s smoother ride and better space will outweigh the need for sportiness, especially since the Suburban’s brake pedal is firmer, requiring more leg strength compared to some of Chevy’s other SUVs.

Tech and Features

The 2025 Suburban takes tech to the next level with a giant 17.7-inch touchscreen that’s as functional as it is stylish. The screen is large and easy to read, displaying everything from your playlist to navigation in bold, clear fonts. The inclusion of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is a nice touch, even though GM is planning to phase them out eventually. Designed for easy access and added convenience, you can control everything with the buttons on the back of the steering wheel—no need to lean forward. 

In terms of safety, every 2025 Suburban comes with a full suite of advanced features like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and automatic emergency braking (forward and reverse). For the ultimate convenience, GM’s Super Cruise driver assist system is available, making long drives easier and safer with hands-free lane changes on mapped highways—even while towing.

Conclusion

The 2025 Chevrolet Suburban offers the perfect blend of space, power, and cutting-edge technology, making it an ideal choice for road trips, heavy-duty towing, or family adventures. Whether you choose the new diesel engine, the bold 24-inch wheels, or the rugged Z71 trim, the Suburban ensures an exceptional driving experience with unmatched comfort and convenience. Ready to elevate your journey? Visit us and experience the Suburban for yourself!

Monday, November 4, 2024

The 2025 Chevrolet Trailblazer: Versatile Design, Turbo Power, and Safety-Forward Tech

2025 Chevy Trailblazer

The Chevrolet Trailblazer returns in 2025 with a fresh Marina Blue Metallic exterior option, continuing to deliver the smart, compact SUV design that drivers love for city streets and weekend adventures. With two turbocharged engine choices and a suite of driver-assist features, this versatile SUV is designed to handle the demands of modern life here at Jim Butler Chevrolet of St. Louis.

What's New for 2025?

Following its design update last year, the 2025 Chevrolet Trailblazer sees only a few minor but meaningful refinements. Marina Blue Metallic joins the exterior color palette, refreshing the Trailblazer’s style with an eye-catching new shade. Mechanically, the 1.2-liter turbocharged engine has been optimized with harder cylinder head valve seat materials, enhancing durability and ensuring compatibility with E-85 fuel. 

These changes keep the Trailblazer current without compromising its well-loved design and features. The 2025 Trailblazer becomes available in the fall of 2024, ready to serve as a capable companion for diverse adventures.

Powertrain Options and Impressive Fuel Efficiency

For 2025, the Trailblazer’s two engine choices provide options for both power and efficiency. The 1.2-liter turbocharged three-cylinder produces 137 horsepower and pairs with a smooth continuously variable transmission (CVT) on front-wheel-drive models. Drivers seeking more power can choose the 155-hp, 1.3-liter turbocharged engine, available with front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. The AWD models feature a nine-speed automatic transmission, optimizing performance across diverse road conditions.

Fuel efficiency is a standout feature, with the 1.2-liter engine achieving an estimated 30/31/30 mpg (city/highway/combined). For the 1.3-liter engine, the front-wheel-drive model is rated at 29/33/31 mpg, while the AWD configuration delivers 26/29/27 mpg.

Tailored Trims and Enhanced Safety Features

The Trailblazer lineup offers four distinct trims: LS, LT, ACTIV, and RS, each loaded with features tailored to diverse needs and styles.

The LS base trim is well-equipped with 17-inch aluminum wheels, comfortable cloth seats, a four-speaker audio system, and Chevy’s comprehensive Safety Assist suite, including forward collision alert, lane departure warning, lane keep assist, and automatic emergency braking. The infotainment setup features an 11-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility.

Moving up, the LT trim introduces convenience upgrades like keyless entry, remote start, and a six-speaker audio system, with options for automatic climate control, an eight-way power driver seat, and 18-inch wheels.

The off-road-inspired ACTIV trim is designed for adventure, adding 17-inch wheels with all-terrain tires, a rugged off-road suspension, and a skid plate for extra durability. Inside, it offers synthetic leather seats, a heated steering wheel, and heated front seats.

For a sportier edge, the RS trim brings a unique aesthetic, with bold 19-inch wheels and sleek black exterior accents, while sharing the ACTIV’s interior features.

Chevrolet also offers additional safety options on higher trims, such as adaptive cruise control and the Driver Confidence Package, which includes rear parking sensors, rear cross-traffic alert, and blind-spot monitoring.

Interior Comfort and Cargo Capacity

Step inside the 2025 Trailblazer, and you’ll find a spacious, practical interior with high seating positions and ample legroom for front and rear passengers. It’s accented with chrome details and colored trim on higher trims to lend a refined feel. The Trailblazer’s cabin also maximizes utility; in addition to folding the rear seats, the front passenger seat can fold flat, allowing long items to fit seamlessly. In tests, it fit six carry-on bags behind the rear seats and 19 with the seats folded down, making it one of the most flexible cargo spaces in its class.

Infotainment and Connectivity

The Trailblazer boasts a tech-savvy interior with an 8.0-inch digital gauge cluster for the driver and a prominent 11.0-inch touchscreen in the center stack. A six-speaker audio system comes standard, while a premium Bose seven-speaker setup is available as part of the Adaptive Cruise and Sound Package on ACTIV and RS models. The SUV also offers comprehensive connectivity, including a Wi-Fi hotspot, standard wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. One USB-A and one USB-C port come standard, supporting the full spectrum of devices.

With a thoughtfully designed interior, robust engine options, and a wide selection of safety and tech features, the 2025 Chevy Trailblazer is a compact SUV built to cater to a variety of lifestyles. Whether you're navigating the morning commute, heading out for a cross-country adventure, or seeking a bit of off-road fun, this SUV has the versatility and style to make each mile enjoyable.

Monday, October 28, 2024

Everyday Style, Serious Power: The 2025 Chevy Blazer’s 308 HP Keeps Up with Life’s Demands!

2025 Chevy Blazer

In the midsize SUV segment, practicality often reigns supreme. However, the 2025 Blazer defies this norm here at Jim Butler Chevy of St. Louis, proving that style and speed can coexist. With a robust 308-horsepower V6 engine, the Blazer not only delivers thrilling power but also impressive agility on the road, setting it apart from competitors.

Performance That Excites

The Blazer’s handling capabilities make it a formidable contender among rivals, outperforming models like the Mazda CX-70 and Toyota Land Cruiser. It also holds its own against larger three-row SUVs such as the Kia Telluride and Jeep Grand Cherokee L. The Blazer masterfully combines responsive handling with bold power, reshaping expectations for midsize SUVs.

What's New for 2025

The 2025 Chevrolet Blazer retains much of its successful formula while introducing a striking new Habanero Orange paint option and the luxurious Iridescent Pearl Tricoat for the Redline Edition. These updates ensure the Blazer remains visually appealing in a competitive market.

Choosing Your 2025 Chevrolet Blazer

The Blazer offers a diverse trim lineup, starting with the 2LT and progressing through the 3LT, Premier, and sporty RS trim. Each trim offers unique enhancements, with the RS trim featuring the powerful V6 engine as standard. The V6 is also available for the 3LT and Premier trims, allowing for a tailored driving experience. All-wheel drive is an option across all trims, ensuring adaptability to different driving conditions.

Opting for the V6 in the Premier trim delivers impressive performance while maintaining the well-rounded attributes families seek. Even front-wheel drive models provide a lively and enjoyable ride.

Interior Design and Comfort

Inside, the Blazer boasts a sporty, Camaro-inspired design, highlighted by large circular vents and a user-friendly 10.2-inch touchscreen. Physical controls make it easy to manage essential functions, while digital menus keep drivers connected. The Blazer comfortably seats five, with ample space in the second row and generous headroom throughout the cabin.

Cargo Space and Practicality

Practicality is a standout feature, with 30.5 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, expandable to 64.2 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down. Various storage options, including cupholders and door pockets, enhance convenience for all passengers.

Stylish Materials and Interior Finishes

The Blazer emphasizes functionality and comfort. Standard models feature durable cloth upholstery, while an upgrade to perforated leather seating adds a premium touch. This customization allows you to personalize your interior while ensuring durability.

Features and Infotainment

Even the base model is packed with modern conveniences. Starting from the 2LT trim, features include keyless entry, dual-zone climate control, a power-adjustable driver's seat, and heated front seats. Higher trims can include ventilated seats, heated rear seats, and a heated steering wheel.

The infotainment system includes a 10.2-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. An upgrade to an eight-speaker Bose sound system enhances audio quality, and options for navigation and wireless charging elevate the tech offerings.

Power and Performance

The 2025 Chevy Blazer's performance is particularly impressive with the available V6 engine. Most trims come with a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine generating 227 horsepower. The upgraded 3.6-liter V6 produces 308 horsepower and allows the Blazer to sprint from 0 to 60 mph in just 6.5 seconds. Both engines are paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission, offering front-wheel or all-wheel drive.

Safety Features

The Blazer consistently earns high safety ratings, including a prestigious five-star rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. It is equipped with a range of standard safety features, such as anti-lock brakes, stability control, and seven airbags. Additionally, advanced driver-assistance technologies like forward-collision warning and lane-keep assist further enhance its overall safety and security.

Striking Design

The Blazer's design combines rugged aesthetics with performance-inspired cues. The sculpted hood and prominent grille create an imposing front profile. Wheel options start at 18 inches, with upgrades to 20 and 21 inches on higher trims. The rear showcases sporty elements, including a rooftop spoiler and dual exhaust outlets. The RS trim features a blacked-out aesthetic for a unique look.

In a crowded market of practical SUVs, the 2025 Chevrolet Blazer stands out as a dynamic and exciting alternative. With spacious seating for five, ample cargo capacity, and a wide range of features, the 2025 Blazer offers an appealing choice for those seeking a versatile and enjoyable driving experience.

Monday, October 21, 2024

233 MPH Shockwave: GM’s 2025 Corvette ZR1 Shatters Records at a Blistering 233 MPH

2025 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1

The roar of the
2025 Corvette ZR1 as it hit the track was more than just the sound of a powerful engine—it was the sound of history in the making. This Corvette was about to set new speed records for the iconic sports car brand, proving that the legacy of Corvette’s performance continues to push boundaries.

Chris Barber, lead development engineer for the ZR1, reported that the car was clocking in at 222 mph while taking on the banked turns at the high-speed test track in Papenburg, Germany. At this point, it had already beaten the previous top-speed record for any factory-stock Corvette by 10 mph, but the ZR1, with its mighty 1,064 horsepower, wasn’t done yet.

Available now at Jim Butler Chevy of St. Louis, this revolutionary machine represents the pinnacle of Corvette engineering. Its performance capabilities are second to none, allowing thrill-seekers the opportunity to own a piece of automotive history. But it wasn’t just its incredible horsepower or sleek design that made waves—it was the heart-pounding moment when the ZR1 reached an astounding 233 mph on the straightaway, solidifying its place as the fastest Corvette ever built.

A New Chapter for Corvette Performance

When the ZR1 transitioned from the banked curve to the 2.5-mile straightaway, General Motors President Mark Reuss was behind the wheel. As Reuss pressed the pedal to the floor, the car unleashed its full potential, rocketing to a record-breaking top speed of 233 mph. This remarkable achievement crowned the ZR1 as the fastest Corvette ever produced and also made it the fastest production car from any American automaker and the fastest car available for under $1 million.

Barber reflected on this feat with pride. "The car really outdid itself," he remarked, noting that when development on the C8-generation Corvette began, the engineers had initially set a top-speed goal of 220 mph. But as testing progressed, it became clear that the car’s 5.5-liter, flat-plane-crank, twin-turbo LT7 V8 engine exceeded all expectations.

After seeing the engine surpass its original horsepower target, the team decided to push the ZR1’s top speed goal even further, raising it to 230 mph. For Barber and his team, there was no hesitation. "Everyone was eager to push the car to its limits," he said. And that’s exactly what they did.

Papenburg: The Perfect Testing Ground

The team chose ATP Automotive Testing Papenburg, a high-speed oval test track in northwest Germany, as their proving ground. With steep, nearly 50-degree banked curves, the track was designed to test vehicles at extreme speeds. While the banking makes driving at 150 mph feel almost like cruising on a flat road, those banked turns become much more intense at speeds over 200 mph.

Barber took the ZR1 for a test run at Papenburg, reaching over 230 mph during practice. "Going into the banking was the most intense part," Barber recalled. "The force just pushes you into the ground. Even NASCAR tracks don’t come close to this."

Despite the extreme speeds, the ZR1 felt surprisingly stable throughout the test. Barber noted how composed the car was, even as it soared past 230 mph. The record-breaking vehicle was completely factory-stock, featuring standard engine software, the production aero package, and Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires, which further demonstrated the car’s capabilities as a street-legal supercar. 

"It honestly felt like driving fast on a regular highway," Barber remarked, highlighting how smooth the experience was at such high speeds.

A Historic Moment for Corvette

To help make history, General Motors President Mark Reuss and GM Senior Vice President Ken Morris—both experienced race-car drivers—participated in the testing. After a few warm-up laps at 150 mph to get comfortable with the car, Reuss was ready to push the ZR1 to its absolute limits. In two official runs, he managed to reach an incredible 233 mph, a speed that even surprised the development team.

"We didn’t think 233 was possible," Barber admitted. "That’s why the team was so excited. We not only met our goal—we went beyond it. The car gave us the confidence to push harder, and it felt natural."

As soon as Reuss stepped out of the car, he was met with applause and cheers from the Corvette team. The excitement was palpable. 

"We’ve achieved a lot, but I’ve never seen the team this excited," Barber said, describing the atmosphere. "Having Mark Reuss behind the wheel just made it all the more special. This was a truly historic moment for the Corvette."

Own a Piece of History

Now, the 2025 Corvette ZR1 is available for purchase at Jim Butler Chevrolet of St. Louis, offering car enthusiasts the opportunity to own a vehicle that has redefined American performance. With a top speed of 233 mph and world-class engineering, the ZR1 stands as a testament to what’s possible when innovation meets passion. If you’re ready to experience the thrill of a record-breaking supercar, this is your chance to bring a piece of Corvette history home.