A ton of science goes into the development (and constant improvement) of any vehicle, and GMC trucks like the Sierra are no exception. While we’re going to go into some of the details in this blog (because this stuff is cool and practical at the same time) the simple answer to the question of “How do you make a truck aerodynamic” is “With a lot of work.”

A few years ago, the Sierra was put under the microscope (or rather, into a wind tunnel) at the General Motors Aerodynamics Lab. With huge turbines, this lab is able to create winds of up to 222 km/h. By watching how wind flows around the GMC Sierra 1500, scientists were able to look at the entire truck and design it to create the least air-resistant ride.

Read More: Best Features of the 2016 GMC Sierra 1500

Modifications to the front fascia, the top of the Sierra’s tailgate, the centre high-mounted stop light, cab sealing, and even tweaks to the Sierra’s flow path from the grille to the radiator are the designed to improve aerodynamics.

What are the benefits of aerodynamics?

The benefits of good aerodynamics in vehicles included a quieter ride, less-wind resistance (so easier driving and handling), and improved fuel consumption. You can’t really change the fact that you are driving several hundred kilograms of steel from one place to another, but you can at least decrease how hard the air hits it.

Read More: Ways to Improve Vehicle Fuel Efficiency

What are the best accessories to improve aerodynamics?

Many accessories like bug deflectors, different size tires, non-standard bumpers, or cargo nets instead of solid tailgates can increase air resistance. In fact a raised tailgate is better for driving because the truck is designed to have the air flow around it instead of catch on it.

Some accessories that can improve aerodynamics include tonneau covers for the bed (soft are better than hard) or some running boards, because both modifications help air move smoothly over the vehicle’s sides and without drag.

What Is A Differential (and Why Is It Nice For Them To Lock)?

Heavy-Duty Sierra All Terrain X Announced!

Chevy Silverado Trailering Technology

The 2016 Chevy Silverado is one of the best trucks on the road, not just for its sheer power, or new fuel efficiency advances every year. This fantastic and versatile pickup also is available with a host of trailering technologies that allow drivers to get even more work done with top efficiency. Keep reading to learn more about the new Chevy Silverado Trailering Camera System release date and other trailering technologies on this great truck.

Read More: 2016 Chevy Silverado Named Best New Truck in Canada

Trailering Camera System

Visibility can be one of the major challenges when towing, but the new Trailering Camera system from Chevy and Ecomaster means that drivers can be even safer no matter the load. This towing package features three cameras which are integrated into the side mirrors and the rear of the customer’s trailer. Each camera feeds into the cockpit screen display so that drivers have a greatly expanded view of their environment. An optional fourth camera can be attached inside the trailer to offer drivers a live view of horses, livestock, or fragile cargo. A camera oriented to watch the truck bed and assist with fifth-wheel connecting should be available later this summer. Click on the images below to see close-ups of various parts of the camera system.

This Trailering Camera System package will be available on 2014-2016 model year Silverado HD trucks like the 2016 Silverado 2500HD, and Silverado 1500 trucks equipped with the available trailer-towing mirrors. This system will go on sale in North America in April. Contact a Craig Dunn Motor City sales representative to get updates on future availability near Winnipeg, MB.

Other trailering technologies available on the Chevy Silverado and Silverado HD include digital steering assist, a fifth-wheel trailering package, and diesel exhaust braking with integrated cruise control.

Chevrolet has been busy generating innovative technology for Canadian Chevy owners, and the automaker recently made an exciting announcement: the myChevrolet app is now compatible with Apple Watch. The announcement is exciting for a variety of reasons, and allowing drivers to interact with their vehicle right from their wrist is not only innovative, but it’s practical as well. The new technology will allow Chevy owners to control certain aspects of the vehicle even when they are nowhere near it. Interested in learning more? Keep reading and we’ll fill you in on the important details! 

You might also be more interested in: How to reset the TPMS light in your Chevy 

Using the myChevrolet app on Apple Watch

Chevy estimates that 1.4 million drivers have downloaded and regularly use the myChevrolet app, and the app has been used roughly 8.5 million times since the start of 2017. Chevrolet drivers who haven’t yet downloaded the myChevrolet app yet will definitely want to do so now that the app is compatible with Apple Watch. Chevy owners will be able to remote stop and start their vehicle, lock and unlock doors, activate and cancel the horn, and turn the lights on or off all from their Apple Watch.

Related: Chevrolet announces new 4G LTE data plan for current and future Chevy owners 

What can you do with the myChevrolet app?

Wondering what else you can do with the myChevrolet app? The app allows Chevy owners to seamlessly interact with their vehicle, giving drivers the ability to check vehicle diagnostics and send navigation requests in addition to the features previously mentioned. The app also gives owners easy access to parking reminders, owner’s manual content, roadside assistance, key fob commands, and Wi-Fi hotspot management.

Have additional questions about how to connect your Apple Watch with your Chevy? If so, feel free to contact a member of our team here at Craig Dunn Motor City or drop us a line in the comments below!

The 2017 Chevy Cruze has already begun arriving on the lot here at Craig Dunn Motor City, but two special models are going to be available for 2017: the 2017 Cruze Hatch and the 2017 Chevy Cruze Diesel. Both of these models offer attractive features, efficient driving, and generous (yet compact) interior space. Check out 2017 Chevy Cruze Diesel Canadian pricing, engine details, and standard features below.

2017 Chevy Cruze Diesel Canadian Pricing

The 2017 Chevy Cruze Diesel sedan will have a Canadian starting price of $24,095 when it begins arriving in showroom in early 2017. That does not include a destination freight charge of $1,600, or taxes, fees, or any additional Chevy accessories. We believe that the new Cruze diesel will be a single trim option, but be sure to check on this blog in the future for updates. Some features that will be standard on this diesel model include:

• Heated seats
• Teen Driver safety features
• Chevy MyLink infotainment system with seven-inch touchscreen
• Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility
• Wi-Fi hotspot capability (data sold separately)

What Engine Will Be In the 2017 Chevy Cruze Diesel?

The diesel engine on the 2017 Chevy Cruze diesel will be a 1.6-litre turbo-diesel engine. It will come standard with a six-speed manual transmission, but a nine-speed automatic transmission will also be available. We believe that this engine is the same model that will be available in diesel editions of the 2018 Chevy Equinox. We have no information yet on horsepower or torque outputs for these powertrains, but we assume that this engine will deliver on the fuel-efficiency advantages that usually come with diesel fuel. The 2017 Cruze Diesel is poised to become the only clean diesel engine option for Canadian compact car customers.

Many times specialty models and concept vehicles (like the Buick Avista) never make it from the auto show to the lot. However, sometimes a concept will be presented, and it will be so exciting that it will make it all the way to the showroom. The Silverado High Desert package is one such model. This excellent variation on the traditional Chevy truck offers many advantages and features. Keep reading to find out the 2017 Chevy Silverado High Desert Package Canadian release date and details on this model.

Read More: 2016 Chevy Silverado Realtree Camo Edition in Canada

The 2017 Chevy Silverado High Desert Package will go on sale in Canada in the first quarter of 2017.  Contact a member of our sales team to see if this model will be coming to Craig Dunn Motor City in Portage La Prairie near Winnipeg MB.

Silverado High Desert Storage Features

The top unique advantage of the High Desert package on the 2017 Chevy Silverado its excellent cargo system. This package will feature a storage system that adds dual side storage bins over the super-strong roll-formed steel Silverado bed. Covered by a hard, three-piece tonneau cover, this cargo system will also have a divider that will allow truck owners to secure both small and large items efficiently.

This package will be available on LT, LTZ and High Country models, and also include a tailgate that can be locked or unlocked using the keyfob.

Specs on the 2017 Silverado High Desert in Canada

The 2017 Chevy Silverado High Desert Package will feature 20-inch wheels and all-season tires on the LT trim and 22-inch wheels with all-terrain tires on the other two trims. Each model will come with the elite Magnetic Ride Control suspension, which allows incredibly precise and comfortable driving. This will mark the first time Magnetic Ride Control has been available on a Silverado truck.

We are excited about the 2017 Chevy Silverado High Desert package Canadian release date, and the great storage and suspension options that will be available on this truck next year.

Horsepower and Torque on the 2017 Chevy Silverado HD Diesel

Does Chevy or Ford Have The Toughest Construction?

The 2018 Chevy Equinox that was announced last month has brought premium style and powertrain enhancements to this already excellent midsize SUV. However, there is another area in which the 2018 Chevy Equinox is designed to excel: in the premium safety it offers for individuals, families and learning drivers. Keep reading to learn more about 2018 Chevy Equinox safety features.

Read More: 2017 Chevy Equinox Special Editions

2018 Chevy Equinox Safety Features

The new Chevy Equinox features plenty of new and returning safety features. Advantages like lane change, side blind zone and rear cross traffic alerts were available on the 2017 Chevy Equinox, while many other features are new. Some of the most interesting options include:

Other available safety features that will be making their first appearance on the 2018 Chevy Equinox include the Safety Alert Seat, Forward Collision Alert with Following Distance Indicator, Low-Speed Forward Automatic Braking and Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning.

To learn more about the 2018 Chevy Equinox or schedule an advanced test drive at Craig Dunn Motor City in Portage La Prairie MB, contact a member of our sales team today.

Chevy Wi-Fi Data Pricing in Canada

One of the top advantages of new Chevy vehicles is the Wi-Fi hotspot capability built into almost every new model. Whether families want a large, people-hauling SUV, commuters need a small, well-equipped car, or workers depend on a reliable Silverado truck, Wi-Fi is available through OnStar connectivity. Now, with new lower Chevy Wi-Fi data pricing in Canada, staying connected in your Chevy vehicle will be even easier.

Read More: The Chevrolet App Make Smartphone to Vehicle Connections Even Easier

Families, workers, and commuters use data for everything from streaming music to finding their way around big cities like Winnipeg and Toronto. Now, with decreased prices on Wi-Fi data costs for Canadian customers, Chevy is making it even easier to stay connected. Check out the new pricing below!

New Canadian Pricing for Chevy Data Plans

• 1 Gigabyte Per Month – $15 (previously $20-$25)
• 4 Gigabytes Per Month – $35 (new plan!)
• 10 Gigabytes Per Month – $70 (previously $109)
• 20 Gigabytes for 12 Months – $200 (previously only 10 Gigabytes)

Thanks to OnStar and their 4G LTE network, Chevrolet owners, drivers, and families are able to enjoy high-speed internet wherever they go. This means more fun on the road, more connectivity with the important things in life, and never getting lost.

“Canadians continue to embrace this technology,” said Rosy Alaimo, National Manager for OnStar in Canada, in a recent Chevrolet press release. “We expect even more customers to use OnStar 4G LTE with these new pricing plans.”

And with the Wi-Fi available in Chevy vehicles, families can connect up to seven devices to the internet and enjoy a premium online experience. Sign up for this new Chevy Wi-Fi data pricing in Canada today and enjoy even more freedom with your data in your car, truck, or SUV.

When it comes to making the automotive world a greener place, General Motors is in the front of the race with vehicles like the 2017 Chevy Bolt EV and various eAssist engine options on cars and trucks. However, General Motors in North America is also making it easier for commercial drivers to save money on fuel and be good the environment at the same time with new alternative fuel options for GM fleet vehicles.

Read More: What Are the Advantages of Diesel Fuel?

New Alternative Fuel Options for GM Fleet Vehicles

When it comes to fuel options on Chevy and GMC vehicles, drivers don’t have to stick just to traditional gasoline and diesel power. There are also several CNG (compressed natural gas) and LPG (liquefied petroleum gas) options on the market. These fuels offer an alternative and highly-efficient option when it comes to powering a heavy-duty vehicle. Thanks to a recently announced partnership between GM and Power Solutions International Inc., more heavy-duty pickups and full-size vans equipped with the 6.0-litre V8 will be available with the ability to burn these fuels.

These vehicles will be available in select locations within the first three months of 2017. We don’t know yet if these vehicles will be available in Manitoba at our dealership, but contact a member of our sales team to learn more about alternative fuel options at Craig Dunn Motor City.

GM Cars Capable of Using Alternative Fuels

While most vehicles that use alternative fuels are heavy-duty trucks and vans, there are also cars and SUVs available with alternative fuel options in North America (check Canadian availability separately). The Chevy Cruze is available with a B20-capable diesel engine, while the Chevy Impala is available with E85 Ethanol burning capabilities. Those seeking an SUV can take advantage of the E85-capable Chevy Equinox, Chevy Suburban, Chevy Tahoe, or GMC Terrain.

Electric vehicles from GM include the Chevy Bolt, Chevy Volt, and Chevy Malibu Hybrid.

Have you ever wanted to adjust your music, call someone, or ask for directions naturally without needing to remember specific commands that your vehicle will respond to? That’s what sweet dreams are made of, and with Siri Eyes Free technology coming out in multiple new GM vehicles you can have all that with the touch of a button (and without traveling the world and the seven seas). But how do you use Siri Eyes-Free on Chevy vehicles?

What GM vehicles have Siri Eyes-Free?

SUV like the 2016 Chevy Trax and 2016 Chevy Traverse currently have Siri Eyes Free capability as a part of their advanced Chevy MyLink system. Along with OnStar 4G LTE WiFi hotspot, this system allows drivers to take even more advantage of the benefits of the internet no matter where they are.

Read More: Chevy RemoteLink Allows You To Control Your Vehicle From Your Smartphone

How do you use Siri Eyes-Free?

You will first of all want to connect your Apple iPhone to your vehicle using Bluetooth connectivity. To activate the Siri voice recognition system, you will have to hold down a button on your steering wheel (note that you really have to hold it down, not just tap it) and then Siri will activate and help you do anything you need in response to natural language commands.

What can Siri Eyes-Free do in my Chevy?

While Siri Eyes-Free has been specially designed to be safe to use in your car, and to not require you to even pick up your phone, it (she?) still has a huge amount of capability just waiting to be used by you. Whether you want to check your text messages, make a phone call, or even find out what the weather is going to be like, Siri in your Chevy can help you out.

Siri Eyes-Free is a great piece of technology that just adds to the great interactive options of the Chevy MyLink.

We love how the 2016 Chevy Cruze sedan offers a stylish exterior and top features at a reasonable price, even compared to its well-equipped predecessor. Now we know that the new Chevy Cruze has not only held its spot as one of the most fuel efficient GM vehicles on the road, but has even reached new heights of driving economy. Keep reading for the great news about 2016 Chevy Cruze fuel consumption.

Read More: How Does eAssist Boost Fuel Efficiency?

2016 Chevy Cruze Fuel Consumption

Outfitted with the 1.4-litre turbocharged Ecotec engine, the 2016 Chevy Cruze will be able to deliver fuel consumption ratings of just 5.6 L/100km on the highway for the LS and LT models and 5.9 L/100km for the top-of-the-line Premier. In city driving, the 2016 Cruze will offer a fuel consumption rating of 7.8 L/100km.

Advanced Cruze Powertrain Features

These fantastic numbers are boosted by the Cruze’s decreased weight for this model year, and efficiency technology like engine stop-start. This engine is matched to either a six-speed manual or six-speed Hydra-Matic automatic transmission. This powertrain is also rated for 153 horsepower and 177 pound-feet of torque.

All together, a 2016 Cruze LS with the new engine, compared to a similar model in the previous year, offers a fuel consumption improvement of 26 percent in city driving and 18 percent on the highway.

“The all-new 2016 Chevrolet Cruze is a more efficient and sophisticated evolution of the brand’s best-selling global car,” said Laura Pacey, brand director, Chevrolet in Canada, in a recent press release. “The next-generation Cruze elevates the segment with innovative safety and technology features that are accessible to compact car customers.”

This new engine and its fantastic mileage numbers are far from the end in fuel efficiency technology and styling advancements for the Chevy Cruze. A diesel model (which will offer even more impressive fuel efficiency) should be available in 2017 and a hatchback Cruze model will be available this fall. Watch the Craig Dunn Motor City blog for more information as it arrives.

Check Out Pricing on the 2017 Cruze Diesel

New Enhancements Make Chevy Vehicles Roar

We’ve written plenty about the GMC Acadia before, and how excited we are about the 2017 year model coming out this spring. But what exactly are the differences between the all-new 2017 GMC Acadia vs 2016 GMC Acadia? Keep reading for some key differences and highlights of new features for this elegant SUV.

Read More: 2017 GMC Acadia Canadian Pricing

2017 GMC Acadia vs 2016 GMC Acadia

New Standard and Available Convenience Features

The 2017 GMC Acadia is also going to offer several neat new features that will help deliver top value to families and commuters. Some of these new features include:

• Rear seat alert – To let you know if anything has been left behind in the back
• Improved split-folding second seat
• Drive mode selector which adjusts the chassis and powertrain settings
• Available All Terrain model
• Continuously Variable Ride Control Suspension (available Denali trim only)

We’re looking forward to the upcoming arrival of this great SUV to our lot here in Portage La Prairie!

What colours are available on the 2020 GMC Acadia?

New Changes for 2020 GMC Models!