Monday, December 9, 2024

Decked Out and Durable: Why the 2025 Colorado Is the Holiday’s Star of Midsize Pickups

2024 Chevy Colorado

The 2025 Chevrolet Colorado stands out as a truck that truly impresses at Jim Butler Chevy of St. Louis. While its tough and rugged exterior makes a bold statement, the ride quality is remarkably smooth and comfortable. Maneuvering through curvy roads is effortless, thanks to its precise handling and ease of driving. For those seeking off-road excitement, the Colorado is engineered to tackle trails and rough terrain with exceptional capability.

Rear-wheel drive is standard on the WT and LT trims, but as you climb to the higher models, all-wheel drive comes included, making them adventure-ready.

There’s just one engine option, but it’s a tried-and-true gem! A turbocharged 2.7-liter four-cylinder that packs 310 horsepower and 430 pound-feet of torque. That means it’s got plenty of zip for just about anything you throw at it. Need to haul stuff? It can carry up to 1,710 pounds, and it tows a whopping 7,700 pounds! For a compact truck, that’s seriously impressive.

The 2025 Chevrolet Colorado comes exclusively in a Crew Cab configuration, offering seating for up to five passengers. Its interior is thoughtfully designed, featuring good-quality materials, although lower trims may include some hard plastics. Rear-seat legroom measures 34.7 inches, which is comparable to many compact cars and may feel a bit tight for taller passengers.

The truck features a single bed length of 61.7 inches, providing an impressive 41.9 cubic feet of cargo space—making it the leader in its class for what is traditionally known as a short bed. However, if you need a longer bed for larger loads, the Toyota Tacoma and Nissan Frontier are the only compact pickups offering extended bed options.

The 2025 Chevrolet Colorado has received an overall safety rating of four out of five stars from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). It comes equipped with a solid range of standard driver-assistance features, such as lane-keep assist, lane-departure warning, and forward collision alert, enhancing its overall safety profile.

For families, the Colorado provides two full sets of LATCH connectors for the rear outboard seats, along with a tether anchor for the rear middle seat, making it a practical choice for securing child safety seats.

The Z71 trim is a strong recommendation for its well-rounded combination of features and capabilities. It includes valuable amenities such as a 120-volt power outlet in the pickup bed, an 11.3-inch infotainment touchscreen, and wireless compatibility with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

However, if serious off-roading is part of your plans, the Trail Boss trim may be a better fit. It offers additional off-road-focused upgrades, including 2 extra inches of ground clearance, an automatic locking rear differential, and hill-descent control, making it a more suitable choice for tackling rugged terrain.

2025 Chevrolet Colorado Models and Trims Overview

The 2025 Chevrolet Colorado is available in five trims: WT (Work Truck), LT, Trail Boss, Z71, and ZR2. All trims are equipped with a 310-horsepower 2.7-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. All-wheel drive is optional for WT and LT trims and comes standard on the Trail Boss, Z71, and ZR2.

Chevrolet Colorado WT

The WT trim offers practical features ideal for everyday tasks, including:

  • Exterior & Interior: 17-inch wheels, cloth upholstery, a six-way manually adjustable driver’s seat, and a four-way manually adjustable passenger seat.

  • Tech Features: Trailer hitch guidance, power windows, push-button start, an 11-inch digital instrument cluster, an 11.3-inch touchscreen, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, satellite radio, Bluetooth, a six-speaker stereo, and two USB ports.

  • Safety Features: Forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, pedestrian and cyclist detection, lane-departure warning, lane-keep assist, automatic high beams, a rearview camera, Teen Driver, and rear-seat alert.

Chevrolet Colorado LT

The LT adds comfort and convenience features, such as:

  • A front center console and rear air vents.

  • Proximity keyless entry, a rear USB port, alloy wheels, and a remote locking tailgate.

  • Several optional packages and stand-alone features are available for further customization.

Chevrolet Colorado Trail Boss

The Trail Boss is designed for enhanced off-road performance, featuring:

  • 18-inch wheels, a 2-inch suspension lift, an off-road suspension, and hill-descent control.

  • Additional off-road capabilities like an automatic locking rear differential and a two-speed transfer case.

Chevrolet Colorado Z71

For a blend of style and utility, the Z71 includes:

  • LED exterior lighting, heated and power-adjustable side mirrors, and red recovery hooks.

  • Interior upgrades such as cloth and synthetic leather upholstery, proximity keyless entry, rear USB ports, and two household-style power outlets (in the cabin and the bed).

Chevrolet Colorado ZR2

The ZR2 is the ultimate off-road-focused trim, offering:

  • Front and rear locking differentials, 33-inch all-terrain tires, a trailering app, trailer brake controller, trailer hitch, and wiring.

  • Additional convenience features like an eight-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, heated front seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, remote start, a spray-on bed liner, and a power-assist tailgate.

  • Optional Bison Package for extreme off-roading, including steel plates, rocker protectors, 35-inch mud/terrain tires, a winch-capable front bumper, and 12.2 inches of ground clearance.

Monday, December 2, 2024

Sleigh What? The 2025 Chevrolet Equinox Capably Crushes Your Busy Holiday Hustle

2025 Chevy Equinox

General Motors Legacy Shines Bright

The Chevrolet Equinox has long been a staple in GM's lineup, boasting a reputation that spans two decades. Over the years, the Equinox has become a trusted companion for countless drivers at Jim Butler Chevy of St. Louis. The 2025 model marks the fourth generation of this beloved crossover, with exciting updates that seamlessly blend style, functionality, and dependability.

A Bold New Look

Chevrolet has given the 2025 Equinox a fresh, rugged exterior that mirrors the bold aesthetics seen in its larger siblings, like the Tahoe and Suburban. From its revamped grille to its refined body lines, the Equinox now projects an air of confidence that feels right at home in the city and on weekend getaways. The sporty RS trim ups the ante with 19-inch wheels, blacked-out accents, and a two-tone color scheme, adding a dash of flair to its practical roots.

Steady Performance for Everyday Life

Under the hood, the Equinox continues with its tried-and-true 1.5-liter turbocharged engine, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. While not engineered for thrills, this setup ensures smooth acceleration and excellent fuel efficiency, delivering a combined 26 miles per gallon. For those who enjoy eco-conscious driving, this crossover makes it easy to push fuel savings even higher with gentle throttle use.

Designed with Families in Mind

Chevrolet knows what families need, and the Equinox hits all the right holiday notes! With features like wireless charging, heated seats, and driver-assistance tools such as pedestrian braking and automatic rear emergency braking, this crossover provides peace of mind alongside modern conveniences. The spacious cabin and intuitive infotainment system create a stress-free experience whether you're tackling the school run or heading out on a long road trip.

A Quiet Hero in the SUV World

The Equinox is built to provide dependable performance without unnecessary frills. Instead, it focuses on being a reliable and comfortable family car that seamlessly fits into any lifestyle. It’s a vehicle designed to handle the everyday grind with grace, all while looking great in your driveway. In a world of fleeting trends, the Equinox stands out as a timeless choice that prioritizes what truly matters: dependability, practicality, and effortless style. 

Verdict: Built to Impress, Year After Year

Chevy has perfected the art of making a vehicle that works for just about everyone. The 2025 Equinox is a testament to that philosophy, proving that dependable, stylish, and family-friendly vehicles never go out of style. Whether running errands or enjoying a weekend escape, this crossover checks all the right boxes, ensuring its place in the hearts of drivers for years to come.

As the holiday season approaches, the 2025 Chevrolet Equinox proves to be the perfect partner for navigating the festive chaos. Whether you're loading up gifts for a family gathering, braving busy mall parking lots, or dashing through wintry weather to make holiday events on time, the Equinox delivers comfort, reliability, and style every step of the way.

Its spacious interior is ideal for carrying decorations, groceries, and all the essentials the season requires, while its advanced safety features offer peace of mind amidst the holiday rush. With the Equinox, you’ll breeze through your to-do list, making every errand a stress-free experience. 

Ready to experience the perfect holiday companion? Head down to Jim Butler Chevrolet for a test drive and see how the 2025 Equinox can make your season even smoother. Our team is here to help you find the perfect fit for your needs—whether you’re navigating holiday shopping or heading out on family adventures. Don’t wait—come see for yourself why the Equinox is the ideal choice for this time of year!

Monday, November 25, 2024

Adventure Perfected: How the 2025 Silverado HD Trail Boss Balances Power and Play

2025 Chevy Silverado HD

For 2025, Chevrolet has expanded its Silverado Heavy Duty lineup by adding the Trail Boss package to the 2500-class models. This rugged option, inspired by the 1500 Trail Boss, comes equipped with Z71 suspension upgrades, all-terrain tires wrapped around 20-inch wheels, and distinctive blacked-out bumpers paired with bold red recovery hooks.

Standard is a gas-powered V8 here at Jim Butler Chevy of St. Louis, but opting for the Duramax diesel transforms the Trail Boss into a towing powerhouse. It’s a solid choice for those seeking off-road capability without venturing into the larger, heavier ZR2 or Bison territory.

The Duramax diesel shines when it comes to highway cruising or tackling tough terrain. Whether climbing steep grades with a payload in the bed or navigating the open road, the engine delivers seamless power with impressive torque. Inside, the spacious back seat offers plenty of room for gear, making it perfect for adventures with family or toys in tow.

While it doesn’t feature the Multimatic shocks of the ZR2, the Trail Boss’s Rancho dampers perform admirably on pavement and dirt alike, offering a comfortable and capable ride. This package strikes a sweet spot in the Silverado lineup—balancing utility, off-road readiness, and practicality for everyday use.

Need a truck that’s tough enough for the job site but still fun for the weekend? The 2500 Trail Boss has got you covered. 

With 975 pound-feet of torque, the Trail Boss is more than ready to haul dirt bikes, side-by-sides, or campers to your favorite trails or campsites. And for a truck with a 6.6L engine, it’s surprisingly fuel-efficient. Over 447 miles, it averaged 15.8 mpg—and that’s on a 36-gallon tank, which still had a quarter left when it was returned.

Smooth and Capable Ride

While the Duramax diesel is a powerhouse, the real focus here is the Trail Boss package. It’s designed as a rugged, practical alternative to the higher-end ZR2 and Bison models, offering plenty of off-road capability without going overboard.

What’s unique about Chevy’s 2500-series trucks is their independent front suspension with torsion bars, paired with a leaf-sprung rear axle. The Trail Boss swaps in Rancho shocks instead of the ZR2’s Multimatics. At first glance, they might not look as hefty, but they deliver where it counts.

Around town, the suspension performed great for the Gear Junkie.com testing crew. It absorbed speed bumps with ease and even smoothed out rough stretches of freeway. The steering felt a bit lighter than expected, which may have been thanks to the BFGoodrich K03 all-terrain tires, known for their stellar grip and durability.

The 2500 Trail Boss strikes a great balance, offering a comfortable ride, impressive hauling capability, and rugged features that shine on or off the road. If you’re after a truck that can tackle work and play without breaking a sweat, this one checks all the boxes.

The Trail Boss delivers a surprisingly quiet and smooth highway ride, thanks in part to its BFGoodrich K03 tires. These tires keep road noise to a minimum, while the V8 hums along effortlessly at low revs, helped by the smartly tuned 10-speed automatic transmission. Wind noise and tire hum barely make it into the cabin, creating a serene driving experience. 

It’s worth noting that the Trail Boss’s bumpers and underbody lack some of the heavier steel components found on the ZR2 or Bison models, which likely contributes to its lighter and more aerodynamic feel. For comparison, the ZR2 Bison can weigh up to 1,800 pounds more with all of its add-ons, which even the high-end Multimatic dampers struggle to manage.

Off-Road Comfort and Surprises

When the Trail Boss hits the dirt, its suspension offers a balanced and dependable ride. On washboard gravel roads, the Rancho shocks bring a unique character, allowing a touch more body movement that can create a cushy and comfortable feel. This design strikes a nice balance, showcasing the Trail Boss’s ability to handle a variety of terrains with ease.

The 2500 Trail Boss features a unique layout for its four-wheel-drive controls, positioned on both sides of the steering wheel. This design ensures easy access and quick adjustments as needed. While a rear locker isn’t included, the truck is equipped to handle a variety of towing and off-road challenges with confidence, making it a versatile choice for tackling rugged terrain or slippery conditions.

Overall, the Trail Boss offers a great mix of comfort and capability, especially for those who need a truck that can tackle daily drives and weekend adventures without the extra bulk of higher-end models.

The 2025 Silverado HD Trail Boss is designed to impress with its thoughtful practicality and versatile features. The spacious back seat is perfect for keeping gear clean and secure, while clever storage behind the rear seatbacks is ideal for essentials like tie-down straps. The 6.25-foot bed boasts three levels of tie-down hooks, making it a breeze to haul everything from tools to toys. And for added convenience, Chevy’s innovative Multi-Flex tailgate comes equipped with built-in speakers, adding an extra layer of fun to your adventures.

Hauling a dirt bike for the weekend? The Duramax engine barely notices the load. One thing to note, though, is the digital rearview mirror. The camera’s placement on the cab instead of the tailgate gives a wider field of view, but tall items like a bike can still block it. Even so, this setup might still beat the view you’d get from a traditional mirror.

On the exterior, the glossy black grille and trim pick up dirt and bugs quickly, but that’s the trade-off for its sleek looks. The Trail Boss package fits neatly between a hardworking job site truck and the more rugged ZR2 models. Its lighter weight helps offset the Rancho shocks, which aren’t as advanced as Multimatic dampers but still handle a mix of city streets and off-road trails well.

The 2025 Silverado HD Trail Boss is built for adventure, perfectly balancing power and practicality for toy hauling, light off-roading, and weekend camping escapades. It’s a robust and capable choice, offering the right amount of grit without overcomplicating things. Need to tackle more extreme trails? Chevy’s got you covered with the hardcore ZR2 or the nimble 1500 ZR2 for ultimate off-road thrills. 

Monday, November 18, 2024

From Basic to Brilliant: 2025 Traverse Flaunts High Country Style

2025 Chevy Traverse

After a bold redesign in 2024 that brought the Traverse in line with Chevy’s truck-based family, the 2025 model continues to step up its game. A new High Country trim joins the Jim Butler Chevy of St. Louis lineup, offering premium features previously seen on the Tahoe, Suburban, and Silverado SUVs.

Positioned between the off-road-ready Z71 and the sporty RS, the Traverse High Country boasts luxurious touches like leather seats, ventilated front seats, heated second-row seats, and a premium 10-speaker Bose audio system. New for 2025, a Sun and Wheel Package is available, and the Trailering Package is now included as standard on the LT trim.

This year, Chevrolet has phased out the entry-level LS trim to streamline the Traverse lineup. This simplifies options while enhancing the remaining trims with thoughtful upgrades.

Under the hood, the Traverse is powered by a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine delivering an impressive 328 horsepower and 326 pound-feet of torque. This engine is paired with a smooth eight-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive comes standard, while all-wheel drive is available on most trims and standard on the Z71. Fuel economy is solid for its class, with front-wheel-drive models achieving 20/27/23 mpg city/highway/combined and all-wheel-drive versions rated at 19/24/21 mpg.

For 2025, the Chevrolet Traverse balances luxury, capability, and performance to keep it competitive and exciting for families and SUV enthusiasts alike.

Safety Features and Trim Levels

The 2025 Chevrolet Traverse takes safety seriously, equipping every model with a robust suite of advanced features. Standard safety technology includes forward collision warning with pedestrian and bicyclist detection, automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, lane-keeping assist, blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert with automatic braking, forward cross-traffic alert, and rear parking sensors. 

Unique additions like GM’s Safety Alert Seat, which vibrates to warn drivers of potential hazards, and the Teen Driver system, which restricts certain vehicle settings based on the key fob in use, add extra layers of protection.

The base LT trim delivers a strong foundation of comfort and convenience with 18-inch wheels, LED headlights, a hands-free power liftgate, keyless entry and start, and remote start. Inside, it features cloth upholstery, a power-adjustable driver’s seat, tri-zone automatic climate control, heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, wireless phone charging, and a six-speaker audio system. An 11-inch digital instrument cluster and a massive 17.7-inch touchscreen with Google Built-In, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto anchor the tech lineup.

For those venturing off-road, the Z71 trim adds rugged flair and functionality. It features standard all-wheel drive, a lifted suspension for an extra inch of ground clearance, 18-inch black wheels with all-terrain tires, blacked-out exterior trim, red tow hooks, rain-sensing wipers, and durable synthetic leather upholstery.

The High Country trim elevates the Traverse with premium touches and top-tier tech. It adds 22-inch wheels, windshield wiper deicers, LED taillights, automated parking, a 360-degree camera, and road sign recognition. GM’s Super Cruise hands-free highway driving system comes standard here but is also available across the lineup. The High Country showcases perforated leather upholstery, ventilated front seats, a power-adjustable front passenger seat, heated second-row captain’s chairs, ambient lighting, and a high-end 10-speaker Bose audio system.

For buyers who want the full luxury experience without bold black exterior accents, the High Country provides an elegant option. On the other hand, the range-topping RS trim brings the same premium features as the High Country but pairs them with sporty black 22-inch wheels and exterior accents, appealing to those who love a sleek, modern look.

Ready to experience a versatile SUV that fits your busy lifestyle and budget? The 2025 Chevrolet Traverse combines comfort, safety, and performance into one sleek package, making it perfect for family road trips, school carpools, or weekend adventures. 

From the feature-packed LT to the luxurious High Country trim, there’s a Traverse for every need. Stop by Jim Butler Chevy of St. Louis and see why this SUV stands out. Take it for a test drive today and discover how it can simplify your day-to-day life while adding a touch of style and sophistication to every journey!