Punchy truck adds even more efficiency and versatility to line-up
Dubai, United Arab Emirates - 23 November 2004 - Having established itself as one of the most popular SUVs in the Middle East, the Chevrolet TrailBlazer has introduced its new relative to the region at last week's Beirut Motor Show the 2005 TrailBlazer EXT.
A versatile two- or four-wheel drive Sports Utility Vehicle (SUV) that oozes style, yet is as tough as they get, the 2005 TrailBlazer EXT offers even higher levels of passenger comfort, efficiency and performance, with the inclusion of a new Vortec Gen IV 5.3 liter V8 engine equipped with GM's innovative Displacement on Demand (DOD) technology.
GM's Displacement on Demand technology enables fuel economy gains of up to eight percent under certain driving conditions by reducing the number of cylinders engaged in the combustion process.
A sophisticated, next-generation engine controller determines when to deactivate cylinders, allowing the engine to maintain vehicle speed in lighter-load conditions such as highway cruising. When the cylinders are deactivated, the engine effectively operates as a V4, with every other cylinder in the firing order operating. The engine returns to V8 mode the instant the controller determines the vehicle speed or load requires additional power. The process is seamless and virtually imperceptible.
Rated at an estimated 344 horsepower and 360 lb-ft of torque, the Gen IV Vortec 5.3 liter all-aluminium V8 supports the TrailBlazer EXT's superior towing capacities of up to 7,000 pounds (3,175 kg) when properly equipped.
Standard on TrailBlazer EXT models, whether two- or four-wheel drive or in LS or uplevel LTZ trim, is GM's advanced Vortec 4.2 liter inline six-cylinder engine. Rated at 294 horsepower and 292 lb-ft of torque, this durable powertrain provides the smooth performance and capability of many V8 engines, with the fuel economy of a six cylinder.
Both engines are complemented by the rugged Hydra-Matic 4L60-E electronically controlled four-speed transmission with automatic overdrive.
TrailBlazer EXT is designed to deliver an optimum blend of refined ride and handling, generous passenger and cargo room, and long-lasting dependability. With its spacious third-row seat, TrailBlazer EXT can carry up to seven passengers, along with more than 23 cubic feet (663L) of stowage behind the third seat. The second and third rows can be folded flat, opening up 107 cubic feet (3,030L) of cargo space.
-Ends-
About Chevrolet
Chevrolet is the largest division of General Motors. Founded in 1911, Chevrolet fulfils the transportation needs of millions of people daily around the world and offers the broadest line-up of cars, trucks and vans in the industry.
In the Middle East, Chevrolet has a strong heritage stretching back more than four decades. Today Chevrolet brings the most comprehensive range of quality vehicles to customers across the region, offering superlative comfort, safety, power and excitement from a brand that has long been a trusted partner in the region.
Chevrolet boasts the widest range of passenger cars in the Middle East, from the cost effective entry-level Aveo, Epica and Optra models to the full-size luxury Caprice and Lumina sedans and the award-winning TrailBlazer, Suburban and Tahoe SUV models. In 2003, Chevrolet represented 63% of all GM sales, and that number is expected to rise to 70% in 2004.
To find out more about Chevrolet, visit the web site at www.chevroletarabia.com
For more information:
Saada Hammad
Communications and Public Relations Manager
General Motors Middle East
Tel: +971 4 3143350
e-mail: saada.hammad@gm.com
Paul Venn
Account Director
Hill & Knowlton
Tel: +971 4 3344930
mail: paul.venn@hillandknowlton.com
© Press Release 2004
