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.

Monday, October 14, 2024

Miles Beyond Ordinary: Experience the 2024 Chevy Silverado 1500 ZR2’s Impressive Range!

2024 Chevy Silverado 1500

At
Jim Butler Chevy of St. Louis, the 2024 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 ZR2 doesn’t just play in the off-road pickup game—it owns it. While other trucks settle for mediocre fuel efficiency, the Silverado ZR2 raises the bar. Rival brands can keep trying, but the Silverado’s 3.0-liter Duramax turbodiesel I-6 engine blows past the competition, boasting an EPA-estimated 20 mpg that leaves others in the dust. The Silverado ZR2 proves that power and efficiency can go hand-in-hand, delivering impressive performance without compromise.

After eight months and 16,000 miles behind the wheel, the Silverado ZR2’s performance has been impressive, averaging 18.8 mpg. During a 2,600-mile stretch with the truck at full towing capacity, it achieved 20.9 mpg. On long highway trips, fuel economy even climbed into the mid-20s. The Motor Trend journalist crew, intrigued by the impressive range, embarked on a road trip to test its limits, setting their sights on the Oceano Dunes State Vehicular Recreation Area as their destination.

The Oceano Dunes Adventure

Oceano Dunes is a unique spot for off-roading, as it’s the only coastal area in California allowing off-highway vehicles like motorcycles, ATVs, and side-by-sides. While exploring the dunes was tempting, the primary goal was to test the Silverado ZR2’s fuel efficiency. With an EPA highway rating of up to 27 mpg, the crew aimed for 25.8 mpg. The truck's 24-gallon fuel tank set the range target at 648 miles.

The planned route to Oceano Dunes covered 686 miles. To enhance fuel efficiency, the trip was conducted at a steady 58 mph, just above California’s truck and trailer limit, and air conditioning was turned off, with windows closed to improve fuel economy by 3-10%.

Prepping for the Trip

Before setting off, the Silverado underwent a 15,000-mile service that included an oil change, tire rotation, and the addition of Hot Shot’s Secret Diesel Extreme fuel additive. A hard-folding Extang Endure ALX tonneau cover was added to secure the truck bed and improve aerodynamics. An infotainment update enhanced route planning, syncing with Google Maps for precise navigation.

On the Road

Departing at 4:00 a.m. amid a record-breaking heatwave, the Silverado started strong. After 100 miles, it averaged 35 mpg, which rose to 35.9 mpg by the 150-mile mark. Although a diesel particulate filter (DPF) regeneration cycle temporarily affected fuel economy, the Silverado remained well above its 27-mpg target. Scenic routes along Route 101 and Highway 1 provided stunning ocean views and a quick beach stop for a refreshing break.

By the 340-mile mark, the truck was still cruising with an impressive 33.1 mpg. Though it hadn't quite reached the halfway point, the Silverado pressed on, tackling high temperatures and miles of varied terrain with ease.

Home Stretch

The next day, the Silverado mirrored the first, setting out again at 4 a.m. and completing another DPF regeneration cycle around mile 550. When the "Low Fuel" light appeared at 759 miles, it was clear that the truck had surpassed expectations. The trip reached 800 miles as the Silverado switched from freeway driving to city streets for the final stretch. 

The moment of truth arrived at 826.8 miles when the truck finally coasted to a stop. With a quick gallon of diesel, it was back on the road, but drivers are advised not to let diesel engines run dry, as it can strain the engine.

Breaking New Ground in Fuel Efficiency

Chevy’s 3.0-liter Duramax diesel engine has a strong reputation for fuel efficiency, and the Chevy Silverado 1500 ZR2 exceeds it by achieving 34.1 mpg, more than 12 mpg above its EPA highway rating. This performance underscores that fuel economy in the 30s is possible, especially on flatter terrain. The Silverado ZR2 redefines fuel efficiency for full-size trucks, making it a top choice for off-road adventures and daily driving.

Monday, October 7, 2024

Torque of the Town: The 2025 Chevy Tahoe’s Diesel Muscle and Tech Drive Adventure

2025 Chevy Tahoe

Fall into style with the 2025 Chevy Tahoe, arriving soon at Jim Butler Chevy of St. Louis with a fresh exterior and sleek lighting as vibrant as the season! The 2025 Chevy Tahoe features a refreshed exterior with upgraded lighting elements. While the signature dual C-shaped lights are still present, they boast a more refined and brighter look, enhanced by angled prism lenses. 

Additionally, the Premier and High Country trims come with special lighting animations that greet you when approaching and bid farewell as you walk away. Two new striking color options are also being introduced: Lakeshore Blue Metallic and Cypress Gray, adding even more style to the lineup. The 2025 Chevy Tahoe introduces the next-generation 3.0-liter inline-six Duramax turbo-diesel, first featured in the Chevrolet Silverado. 


Set to join the Tahoe lineup in early 2025, this turbocharged diesel has undergone several upgrades, including a retuned turbo compressor, higher-flow fuel injectors, redesigned piston-cooling jets, improved steel pistons, and an advanced thermal management system. These enhancements boost horsepower by 10 percent and torque by 7.6 percent.

With these updates, the Duramax now delivers 305 horsepower and 495 lb-ft of torque, a significant increase from the previous model’s 277 horsepower and 460 lb-ft. Chevy also incorporated a redesigned air intake system and added extra soundproofing in the engine compartment for a quieter ride.

On the gasoline side, the 5.3-liter V8 with 355 horsepower and 383 lb-ft of torque remains the standard engine for the LS, LT, RST, Z71, and Premier trims. A more powerful 6.2-liter V8, producing 420 horsepower, is available for the RST, Z71, and Premier models, and comes standard in the High Country trim.

The 2025 Chevy Tahoe offers an impressive towing capacity of up to 8,400 pounds when outfitted with the right equipment. Select models can be enhanced with the Max Trailering Package, which includes upgrades like a larger radiator, a stronger cooling fan, and an integrated brake controller. This package also features advanced trailering tech, such as Hitch View, hill descent control, and blind zone steering assist, among other helpful tools.

Additionally, the 2025 Tahoe introduces several new trailering features, including trailer tire monitoring to help prevent blowouts, load rating information, forward path guidance, trailer-specific navigation, and boat ramp assist for smoother launches.

The 2025 Chevy Tahoe’s revamped dashboard now includes a 17.7-inch infotainment touchscreen paired with an 11-inch digital instrument cluster across all trims. The large infotainment screen is thoughtfully angled toward the driver to provide a commanding sense of control. 

Inside, the Tahoe’s spacious cabin also gets several new updates, such as a redesigned steering wheel, an upgraded center console with wireless charging, additional soft-touch materials, optional perforated leather seating, and authentic wood trim accents for an added touch of luxury.

The 2025 Chevy Tahoe will introduce advanced safety features, including interior motion sensors and Connected Cameras. The motion sensors detect the slightest movement in the cabin after the vehicle is parked, providing peace of mind that no one is left inside. The Connected Cameras system, which includes a 360-degree exterior camera, allows drivers to monitor both the interior and exterior of the vehicle remotely through the myChevrolet app. 

This system also offers dashcam functions, crash recording, security surveillance, and live-streaming capabilities. Chevy Safety Assist comes standard on all 2025 Tahoe models, offering key features like automatic emergency braking, forward collision alert, lane-keeping assist, lane departure warning, and adaptive high beams. Additionally, the 2025 Tahoe will offer Super Cruise, GM's hands-free driving technology, for an extra layer of convenience on the road.