GMC Yukon Hybrid, 2008

 

 GMC Yukon Hybrid, 2008

The 2008 GMC Yukon Hybrid, featuring the world's first two-mode hybrid propulsion system in an SUV, will offer consumers a 25-percent improvement in overall fuel economy when it arrives at dealerships toward the end of next year.

By utilizing innovative hybrid technology and Active Fuel Management™ cylinder deactivation technology, the Yukon Hybrid will deliver a spectacular combination of fuel efficiency and power, while maintaining the capabilities of a full-size SUV.

The GMC Yukon Hybrid is powered by an aluminum small-block Vortec V-8 engine that maintains important performance attributes of full-size trucks, such as towing at 6,000 pounds. To offset the added weight from the hybrid propulsion system, GM redesigned certain vehicle components to optimize aerodynamics. These design changes include a new hood, front and rear fascias and a sleek GMC grille.

While traditional full hybrid systems offer only one electric mode that is utilized during low-speed driving, GM is teaming up with DaimlerChrysler and BMW Group to co-develop the two-mode hybrid system, which is a patented fuel-saving technology with one mode for city driving and one mode for highway driving.

The first mode of the system is for low speed and light loads. In this mode, the hybrid system can operate with electric power only, engine power only and any combination of engine and electric power. When the first mode operates as electric only, fuel consumption is reduced in heavy stop-and-go traffic by shutting off the engine for extended periods of time and moving exclusively under electric power at low speeds.

The second mode is primarily used at highway speeds. In addition to electric assist, the second mode integrates sophisticated electronic controls, such as Active Fuel Management, cam phasing and late-intake valve closure, to allow even more efficient engine operation with electric motors less than half the size of a traditional "one-mode" hybrid system. Full eight-cylinder engine power is provided when conditions demand it, such as passing, towing or climbing a steep grade.

The two-mode system also leverages a four-speed automatic transmission and electronic controls in an integrated, powerful and compact system that can be used with gas and diesel engines, front- and rear-wheel-drive configurations and cars, trucks and SUVs.

GMC Terrain Denali, 2013

 

 

 

 GMC Terrain Denali, 2013

GMC is expanding its exclusive Denali sub-brand with the debut of the 2013 Terrain Denali, bringing a new level of style and power to the luxury small SUV.

More power, same efficiency
With the introduction of the Terrain Denali, GMC also announced a new 3.6-liter V-6 engine with direct injection and continuously variable valve timing will replace the current 3.0-liter V-6 engine in Terrain lineup for the 2013 model year. SAE certified at 301 horsepower (224 kW) and 272 lb.-ft. (369 Nm) of torque, this engine makes more power and torque, but is expected to deliver fuel economy equal to its predecessor.

The new V-6 uses lightweight components that contribute to the Terrain's fuel efficiency while boosting its horsepower. An integrated cylinder head/exhaust manifold design saves about 13 pounds compared to a non-integrated design, while a composite intake manifold saves about 5.5 pounds vs. an aluminum intake. Additionally, a lightweight structural front cover and high-strength connecting rods save additional weight.

Terrain's standard Ecotec 2.4-liter I-4 with direct injection and continuously variable valve timing is also available for buyers looking to combine Denali's high-end appointments with a best-in-class 32 highway mpg (2WD model). Front-wheel drive is standard on GMC Terrain Denali, with all-wheel drive available for both engines.

New dual-flow dampers are exclusive to the GMC Terrain Denali's suspension system. This technology provides a smoother ride and improved handling by controlling suspension dampening across a broader range of driving conditions.

Signature design cues
Inside and out, the 2013 GMC Terrain Denali features high-end details. Models with the 2.4L engine feature 18-inch wheels, while the V-6 engine is paired with 19-inch wheels. Other Denali-specific exterior features:

•     Signature chrome grille
•     Satin chrome accents
•     Body color front and rear fascias
•     Body color rocker panels with satin chrome molding
•     New headlamp and taillamp designs
•     Dual chrome finish exhaust outlets (single outlet on 2.4L)

GMC Terrain Denali's cabin updates are highlighted by soft-touch Jet Black leather, which lines the seats and door inserts. Contrast stitching and red accent lighting contribute to an inviting interior. Other Denali-exclusive interior details:

•     Soft-touch instrument panel with French stitching
•     Leather-wrapped steering wheel with smoked mahogany wood accents
•     Embossed Denali logos on front seatbacks
•     Smoked mahogany wood trim accents
•     Denali illuminated front sill plates
•     Eight-way power driver and passenger seat

Class-leading technology
Terrain Denali comes standard with many of GMC's leading technologies, including a color touch radio with IntelliLink. This new infotainment system features a reconfigurable home screen; intuitive voice commands; Bluetooth smartphone integration; control of streaming internet radio apps such as Pandora and Stitcher; and iPod controls with Gracenote music database technology.

Forward collision alert and lane departure warning are standard on GMC Terrain Denali. They use the industry's first single-camera crash-avoidance system to visually and audibly warn drivers when a collision is imminent or the vehicle crosses a lane marker.

In addition, side blind zone and rear cross traffic alert help avoid collisions by using radar to watch spots the driver may not be able to see - and provide visible and audible warnings.

Convenience features, such as a programmable power liftgate, are standard on GMC Terrain Denali. At the touch of a button, owners can access the vehicle's 63.9 cubic feet of cargo space (behind the first row), while a memory function stops the liftgate at a chosen height to help shorter drivers or accommodate low garage heights.

The  technologies include color touch navigation and a rear-seat entertainment system.
As with every new GMC, the Terrain Denali comes with six free months of OnStar's Directions and Connections plan. It includes Automatic Crash Response, Turn-by-Turn Navigation, roadside assistance, emergency services link, stolen vehicle assistance and remote door unlock.

GMC Acadia, 2013

 

  

 

GMC Acadia, 2013

The GMC unveiled the new 2013 Acadia and Acadia Denali at the 2012 Chicago Auto Show, highlighting a new exterior and safety features including the industry's first front center air bag.

GMC Acadia, which launched in 2007 as GMC's first crossover and defined a segment that has since surged in popularity, had the best sales in its five-year history in 2011. The Denali model, added in mid-2010, broadened Acadia's appeal to luxury customers with its combination of functionality and style.

GMC Acadia retains the interior functionality popular with families, including the SmartSlide seating system, which allows easy access to the third row for both seven- and eight-passenger seating configurations. Likewise, both the second and third row still fold flat for class-leading maximum cargo space, including the ability to carry 48-inch-wide sheet goods, such as drywall and plywood.

The Confident design
First impressions are everything, and the 2013 Acadia was developed to make a strong one. A chiseled, three-bar grille sits prominently in the new, more upright design.
Diffused LED running lamps lend a premium look to the GMC Acadia and are standard on all models, regardless of whether standard projector beam or optional HID headlamps are selected. New taillamp detailing reflects the advancements up front.
The new GMC Acadia gets other subtle exterior design updates, including wrap-around rear glass and a new rear spoiler. New 18-, 19- and 20-inch wheel patterns complement the vehicle's lines and stance.

The GMC Acadia's refined interior uses upgraded soft-touch materials, with French stitching that adds a tailored look and red ambient light flowing across the dashboard. SLT and Denali models get aluminum accents on the center console, doors and dash.

Industry-exclusive safety
The redesigned Acadia will be the first vehicle on the market with GMC's new front center air bag system, created to protect drivers and front passengers in far-side impact crashes where the affected occupant is on the opposite, non-struck side of the vehicle. It deploys from the inboard side of the driver's seat and positions itself between the driver and front passenger.

Standard on the GMC Acadia Denali and available on other models are Side Blind Zone Alert and Rear Cross Traffic Alert systems. These systems use radar to watch spots the driver may not be able to see - and provide visible and audible warnings to help prevent collisions.

Every GMC Acadia model also comes standard with six months of OnStar's Directions and Connections service, which includes automatic crash response, turn-by-turn navigation, roadside assistance, emergency services link and remote door unlocking. OnStar's RemoteLink smartphone app allows for remote vehicle status reports, extended locking and unlocking capability, and remote start functionality to distance limited only by cellular phone service, rather than the few hundred feet of the standard key fob.

The Technology leader
The 2013 Acadia's redesigned infotainment functions feature capacitive touch controls that use electrodes to sense the conductive properties of objects such as the touch of a finger.
GMC's Color Touch Radio - first introduced on the 2012 Terrain - is standard in the GMC Acadia. Available IntelliLink allows customers to seamlessly integrate their smartphones for hands-free calling through the audio system and Bluetooth streaming of popular internet radio favorites Pandora and Stitcher. IntelliLink also allows voice control of USB-connected iPods for easy access to stored music.

Other audio system features include HD radio capability, a photo viewer and a standard rear-vision camera with dynamic guide lines that will display on the high-definition screen.
Mechanically, the 2013 Acadia benefits from a next-generation Hydra-Matic 6T70 six-speed automatic transmission with better shift response and improved drivability.
GMC Acadia's most-popular options, including rear-seat entertainment, a Dual SkyScape sunroof and a trailering package, continue to be available.

Exclusive Denali returns
GMC Acadia's popular top-of-the-line Denali trim represents 30 percent of sales, so a high priority was placed on adding premium amenities and refining Denali's signature design cues. New or redesigned exterior additions:

•     New, three-dimensional polished grille
•     Redesigned lower front and rear fascias
•     Body-color lower cladding and rocker moldings, rear fascia and fender flares
•     Unique body-side moldings with chrome accents and Denali badges
•     Dual flow-through chrome exhaust outlets integrated into the rear fascia
•     20-inch machined wheels

The Inside, Denali adds standard comfort and safety features:

•     Perforated leather seating and Denali-specific Cocoa Dune upholstery color
•     Leather-wrapped steering wheel with wood inserts and power tilt/telescope
•     Aluminum trim accents
•     Heated and cooled front seats
•     Accent lighting in footwells and lighted sill plates with Denali logo
•     Color Touch navigation
•     Side Blind Zone and Rear Cross Traffic Alert
•     Dual SkyScape sunroof system, with sliding front sunroof and fixed rear section
•     All-wheel drive

The GMC capability
All 2013 GMC Acadia models are powered by a fuel-efficient, 3.6L direct injection V-6 with variable valve timing, producing 288 horsepower (215 kW) and 270 lb-ft (266 Nm) of torque. Front-wheel drive is standard, while the added control of all-wheel drive is available. Maximum towing capacity is 5,000 pounds (2268 kg).

The 2013 GMC Acadia and Acadia Denali will be built at the Lansing Delta Township Assembly Plant in Lansing, Mich. Pricing, availability and more details will be announced closer to the vehicle's on-sale date in late 2012.

GMC Sierra All Terrain HD Concept, 2011

 

 

 

 

 

 

GMC Sierra All Terrain HD Concept, 2011

The GMC Sierra All Terrain HD concept is an exploration of heavy-duty truck capability combined with greater off-road versatility. It is highlighted by a bold exterior design, enhanced all-terrain suspension and premium details expected of a GMC - all designed to enable greater access to off-road destinations.

The new 2011 Sierra HD underpins the All Terrain HD concept, with a modified, production-based 4WD chassis and the Duramax diesel/Allison 1000 six-speed powertrain. The enhanced suspension and unique body dimensions, including increased ground clearance and wider track, as well as greater approach/departure angles, deliver off-road capability while maintaining HD levels of payload and trailering capacity.

The GMC Sierra All Terrain HD features a unique five-foot, eight-inch Crew Cab/short box body configuration that supports a wheels-at-the-corners proportion. Shorter in overall length than production Sierra HD models, the concept's dimensions contribute to greater approach/departure angles.

Additional off-road elements:

•     Wider, 73-inch (1,853 mm) track for greater stability
•     Approximately 3 inches (76 mm) greater ground clearance
•     Custom front upper and lower control arms
•     Specially constructed Fox off-road shocks with remote fluid reservoirs (integrated in the wheel house liners)
•     Front and rear jounce shocks
•     Electronic front stabilizer bar disconnection
•     35-inch-tall BFGoodrich KM2 "mud terrain" tires mounted on 20-inch machined aluminum wheels
•     Full composite underbody protection.

Purposeful design
From every angle, the All Terrain HD looks the part of a dedicated off-road performer, with bold, accentuated features complemented by a wide stance and tall profile.

Streamlined bumpers are designed to enhance approach/departure angles and incorporate frame-mounted recovery hooks - with integrated skid plates. A large, airflow-optimized grille maximizes cooling in tough conditions, while a forced-induction hood delivers more air to the Duramax diesel engine.

Large fender flares stretch away from the body to cover the 35-inch-tall BFGoodrich tires. At the rear, the cargo box features lockable, lighted storage compartments, along with a number of tie-down cleats, including a pair in the bed floor and two on each side of the bed. A non-slip rubber pad is used on the tailgate, while two special compartments inside the cargo box provide access to a 110-volt power outlet and air compressor. A composite bed liner with a unique "circuit board" pattern provides a protective cover for the bed.

Motorized, deployable assist steps for the cab and cargo bed make it easier to enter and exit the All Terrain HD, while maximizing ground clearance during off-road driving. It also incorporates a number of industrial-grade lighting elements to provide greater visibility for safer driving where stars may be the only other source of illumination.

The lighting details:

•     High-intensity LED headlamp, taillamp and fog lamp lighting mounted in impact-resistant composite housings and featuring edge-lit illumination
•     High-intensity LED park and turn signal lamps
•     Smooth-appearance front marker lamps integrated behind the top edge of the windshield glass
•     Integrated center high-mounted stop lamp and rear marker lights mounted at the top edge of the rear window glass
•     LED floodlights for the cargo bed and assist steps.

The All Terrain HD is painted Iridium Metallic - a dark charcoal color that reveals a reddish, anodized inflection when viewed from certain angles. It complements other anodized and satin-metal finishes on the exterior, which give the truck a more precise and functional appearance.

The interior matches the exterior aesthetic, with premium appointments and increased functionality, including enhanced lighting. It conveys solidity and precision, blending accent details such as stainless steel mesh and satin chrome with an amplified expression of the All Terrain's premium features. Two-tone dark gray leather seats, matched with embossed carbon fiber-style leather on the seating surfaces, have red contrast stitching. Additional leather-wrapped interior features include the steering wheel, instrument panel and center console.

A new navigation radio is also featured on the GMC Sierra All Terrain HD concept and previews future radios to be offered in GMC vehicles. An integrated 80-gig hard drive contains map data for the navigation system. It eliminates the need for a map disc and provides greater storage of music from portable devices. It also features DVR-style "time lapse playback," which allows up to 20 minutes of recording/playback from the AM/FM/XM radio stations.

The all Terrain chassis and suspension
Based on the chassis of the 2011 Sierra HD trucks, the All Terrain HD features a fully boxed steel frame with exceptional strength and torsional stiffness. It incorporates the production models' new independent front suspension and asymmetrical rear leaf-spring suspensions, but with a wider 73-inch (1,853 mm) track (front and rear) that enhances stability during off-road and highway driving. A production Sierra 2500HD has front and rear tracks of 68.8 inches (1,748 mm) and 67.3 inches (1,709 mm), respectively.

An increased ride height provides greater ground clearance of 21.1 inches (536 mm) at the rockers and 11.8 inches (300 mm) at the skid plates, while specialized Fox off-road shocks deliver exceptional damping on tough terrain. They were created specially for the All Terrain HD, with specific valving. The shocks feature visible, remote fluid reservoirs - connected to the shock bodies via custom hoses - mounted in the wheel house liners and are matched with front and rear jounce shocks. They add additional compression damping and more controlled rebound, which helps increase control, stability and handling.

The All Terrain HD also features electronic disconnection of the front stabilizer bar, which enables greater crawling capability on rocky terrain. The driver simply pushes a button inside the cab to disconnect it from the front suspension.

Custom upper and lower control arms for the front suspension are designed to work with the Fox off-road shocks and jounce shocks, while supporting the greater ground clearance and ride height. They contribute to the wider track, as do the aggressive 20-inch machined aluminum all-terrain wheels. The wheels are deep, with six split-spoke elements, and are constructed in a reverse drop-flange method that ensures optimal strength. They also feature a mix of satin chrome and anodized aluminum finishes, which provide durability and a premium appearance that complements the body's Iridium Metallic color.

A full composite underbody protection system shields the All Terrain HD's transmission, drivetrain, fuel tank, exhaust system and axle differentials. It starts with the front bumper, which rolls beneath the truck and leads to a composite, integral belly pan that covers a front suspension skid plate. Protective covers are also mounted beneath the driveline components, while the front and rear differentials feature direct-mounted skid plates. The rear bumper is integrated with the rear skid plate.

Powertrain details
The GMC Sierra All Terrain HD concept is propelled by the new, production 6.6L Duramax turbo-diesel V-8 and Allison 1000 six-speed automatic transmission powertrain combination offered in the 2011 Sierra HD trucks. The Duramax is rated at 397 horsepower (296 kW) and 765 lb.-ft. of torque (1,037 Nm).

The powerful 6.6L Duramax is more fuel-efficient - with up to 11-percent greater fuel economy than previous versions - and reduces NOx emissions by up to 63 percent. The powertrain's efficiency is assisted by the Allison 1000 transmission, which requires less engine power to funnel torque to the axles. It also incorporates a "smart" exhaust brake feature that helps save wear on the brakes on downhill grades, a feature available on production Sierra HDs.

With the same proven powertrain as production Sierra HD trucks, the All Terrain HD delivers comparable hauling and towing capabilities:
   = Estimated payload capacity of 2,700 pounds (1,225 kg)
   = Estimated conventional towing capacity of 13,000 pounds (5,896 kg)
   = Estimated fifth-wheel towing capacity of 15,600 pounds (7,076 kg).

The GMC Sierra All Terrain HD also features four-wheel drive, with automatic locking front and rear differentials, while the 14-inch, four-wheel disc brake system from the production Sierra HD provides the stopping power for this unique off-roader.

GMC SIERRA ALL TERRAIN HD CONCEPT SPECIFICATIONS
=    Body style / driveline: 5-passenger crew cab, 3/4-ton 4-wheel-drive heavy-duty pickup
=    Construction: body on frame
=    Engine: Duramax 6.6L turbo-diesel
=    Horsepower: 397 hp (296 kW) @ 3000 rpm
=    Torque: 765 Nm (1037 lb.-ft) @ 1600 rpm
=    Transmission: Allison 1000 six-speed automatic
=    Suspension
        front: long- and short-arm independent with torsion bars
        rear: semi-elliptic two-stage multi-leaf spring
=    Steering type: integral power-assisted recirculating ball
=   Brakes (type): power-assisted, Hydroboost brake-apply system, four-wheel disc, four-wheel ABS
=    Brake rotor (diameter x thickness)
        front: 13.97" x 1.57" / 355 x 40 mm
        rear: 14.17" x 1.34" / 360 x 34 mm
=    Wheel size and type: 20 x 9.5-inch aluminum
=    Tire type and size: BFGoodrich KM2 325/60R20
=    Wheelbase: 148.6" / 3774 mm
=    Overall length: 230.9" / 5864 mm
=    Overall width: 83" / 2106 mm
=    Overall height: 81.8" / 2077 mm
=    Track
        front: 73" / 1853 mm
        rear: 73" / 1853 mm
=    Minimum ground clearance
        21.1" / 536 mm (at rocker panels)
        11.8" / 300 mm (at skid plates)
=    Approach angle
        front: 39°
        rear: 31°
=    Maximum payload (est.): 2700 lbs. / 1225 kg
=    Maximum towing capacity (est.)
        ball hitch: 13,000 lbs. / 5896 kg
        fifth-wheel hitch(est.): 15,600lbs. / 7076 kg

GMC Sierra Hybrid Crew Cab, 2009

 

 

GMC Sierra Hybrid Crew Cab, 2009

GMC announced the 2009 GMC Sierra Hybrid, a powerful full-size pickup that achieves 40-percent greater city fuel economy and a 25-percent improvement in overall fuel economy while delivering the capability expected of a full-size truck - including a 6,100-pound (2,767 kg) towing capacity.

Partnering General Motors' patented two-mode hybrid system and a powerful 6.0L gas V-8, the Sierra Hybrid delivers highly efficient performance, including all-electric driving up to 30 mph (48 km/h). That allows fuel savings to be realized even when the truck is fully loaded or towing a trailer.

The GMC Sierra Hybrid goes on sale in the fourth quarter of 2008 and is based on the strong and capable Sierra platform that was introduced for the 2007 model year. It will be offered in the Crew Cab body style on both 2WD and 4WD models. Each model is equipped with several standard, popular features, including StabiliTrak electronic stability control system, a locking rear axle and a trailering package. Sierra Hybrid also offers dual-stage frontal air bags and head curtain side air bags, and it is the only full-size truck with five-star side-impact ratings in federal crash tests.

Hybrid details
The Sierra Hybrid's fuel-saving performance is derived from GM's advanced Electrically Variable Transmission (EVT) and 300-volt nickel-metal hydride Energy Storage System (ESS), which work in concert with the standard 6.0L V-8 gasoline engine with Active Fuel Management (AFM) and late intake valve closing (LIVC) technology. GM's hybrid technology system not only enables the Sierra to launch and drive up to 30 mph on electricity alone, it also allows the Vortec 6.0L V-8 engine to operate in its more economical V-4 mode for longer periods.

As part of the vehicle's emission control system, the ESS is warranted for eight years/100,000 miles.

With GM's two-mode hybrid system, the electric power used to propel the vehicle is generated by the hybrid system itself. When the brakes are applied or the vehicle is coasting, the electric motors within the hybrid system create electricity that is stored in the 300-volt battery. This stored energy is used to move the vehicle and the regenerative braking cycle is renewed.

The two-mode hybrid system provides seamless, dependable power on demand in an efficient package. In fact, its electric motor is less than half the size of those in single-mode hybrid systems. This technology was developed and is still used in fleets of hybrid transit buses in more than 70 North American and European cities. Scaled-down for use in passenger vehicles, the two-mode system delivers fuel savings where it is needed most - in large vehicles with high levels of capability. The two-mode system was first introduced on the 2008 Yukon Hybrid. It is a core part of GM's energy diversity efforts, which are centered on reducing dependence on petroleum, improving fuel economy, reducing emissions and minimizing the automobile's impact on the environment.

With the fuel savings of the hybrid system and Sierra's 26-gallon (98-liter) fuel tank, the Sierra Hybrid has a cruising range of more than 500 miles (800 km).

Quiet and smooth
Integration of the hybrid system on the Sierra is seamless - the battery pack is located beneath the rear seat - and perceptible only in what it lacks: noise.

Contributors to the quiet driving experience:

•     New exhaust system and resonator tuned for the 6.0L engine's Active Fuel Management operation
•     Additional engine intake induction tuning for reduced interior noise and pleasing sound quality
•     Low-rolling resistance, "quiet-tuned" P265/65R18 tires for reduced road noise
•     Electrically driven 300-volt air conditioning compressor reduces vibration and allows the standard, tri-zone HVAC system to cool the passenger compartment even when the gasoline engine is shut off
•     Electrically driven 42-volt variable-assist power steering reduces vibration and provides up to a 0.5-mpg fuel economy improvement by reducing parasitic losses common in belt-driven hydraulic systems
•     Energy Storage System (ESS) cooling system internal fan is tuned to be quiet at low vehicle speeds when the fan could more easily be heard by the occupants

Trailering performance
In addition to increased fuel economy, the GMC Sierra Hybrid's electrically variable transmission also provides tremendous trailering capability, enhancing driving smoothness and quality when towing. Electric drive is enabled up to approximately 30 mph (48 km/h), even when towing, allowing fuel savings when the truck is towing a trailer.
The EVT incorporates grade braking and tap up/tap down shift control. It also benefits towing on curves or lower-speed back roads, as exceptionally smooth gear transitions eliminate the "shift shock" torque disruption that can occur during abrupt shifts, such as when slowing or braking.

GMC Granite Concept, 2010

 

 

 

GMC Granite Concept, 2010

Combining a decidedly urban-industrial design aesthetic with functionality aimed at young professionals, the GMC Granite Concept takes the brand's trademark capability in a new, more progressive direction. It was introduced at the 2010 North American International Auto Show in Detroit.

If brought to market, the GMC Granite Concept would be the smallest GMC ever - but has been optimized to feel much larger. Its length is a full 2 feet (0.6 m) shorter than the new Terrain compact crossover, but its open interior was designed to be spacious and flexible to fit the needs of active people. Generous cargo space and unique flipping/folding seats, for example, enable a mountain bike to be loaded completely inside with the tailgate closed.

Like GMC's current lineup of trucks, SUVs and crossovers, the GMC Granite Concept delivers style and capability, with advanced features, high-quality materials and exceptional attention to detail. An industrial-influenced exterior is combined with a spacious interior that features precise instruments and leading-edge technology. The climate system, navigation and infotainment technologies, for example, are viewed via an extra-wide, next-generation organic light-emitting diode technology that is more dynamic than the conventional screens used in most production vehicles.

Industrial-inspired exterior
A cadre of young designers drew upon the preferences of young, urban professionals like themselves, who are very social and active. They are more likely to take friends to clubs and load outdoor gear on weekend excursions than to haul lumber or tow a boat. With those requirements in mind, they sketched out the dimensions of the GMC Granite Concept accordingly. Its 103.6-inch (2,631 mm) wheelbase is comparable to a Chevrolet Cobalt, but its 161.3-inch (4,097 mm) overall length is more than a foot shorter. Its size gives the GMC Granite Concept exceptional maneuverability, even within narrow urban streets.

The GMC Granite Concept's comparatively short body length is complemented by a wide, 70.3-inch (1,786 mm) overall width and a tall, 60.5-inch (1,536 mm) height. Those dimensions create unique proportions that depart dramatically from conventional minivan, SUV or crossover designs. "The Design team leveraged the best attributes from different segments: SUV, minivan and crossover, and mixed them with a commercial chic aesthetic. We feel this redefines the premium class of vehicles we call urban utility vehicles," said Lyon.

GMC Granite Concept has four doors, hinged on each side to open like a set of French doors. There's no pillar between the front and rear doors, making the GMC Granite Concept easier to enter, exit and load, even with bulky items.

In keeping with the vehicle's urban theme, the exterior of the GMC Granite Concept has a series of complex, intersecting planes and angles, creating the impression of an industrial machine - an object created out of necessity, but admired for its precision and functional aesthetics.

A forward-angling motif that cuts through the door panels, starting high and behind the doors and cutting to the center of the front door, suggests motion, as does a high beltline and tapered side glass. A rear spoiler is integrated into the roof and extends slightly above the rear glass. Other angles and planes of the exterior appear carefully metal-crafted.

Up front, GMC's signature grille design is flanked by headlamps that sweep back into the fenders, further suggesting motion. The headlamps and fog lamps are set at the far edges of the front-end bodywork, accentuating the GMC Granite Concept's planted stance. At the rear, the vehicle's planes and angles come together tightly, showing careful attention to detail. Other exterior elements include prominent taillamps with a multi-layer appearance and LED lighting technology; and a centered exhaust outlet with a brushed metal tip.

There is no chrome on the exterior of the GMC Granite Concept; all the trim has a satin or brushed metal finish, accenting the industrial look. Large, 20-inch wheels - wrapped in Bridgestone tires - were tailored within the fenders for a low, sporty stance. The exterior color of the GMC Granite Concept is metallic gray that evokes the look of the material for which this concept was named.

Mechanically minded, highly functional interior
The interior was inspired by the design of aircraft-type mechanical instruments and precision tools. That is most apparent on the dashboard and instrument cluster, where gauges were modeled after finely crafted timepieces. A compass incorporated into the "barrel" surrounding the speedometer moves with every turn of the vehicle, providing an at-a-glance directional confirmation. "Our goal was not to hide but to show how this vehicle is put together, and the high quality of its craftsmanship, not unlike the finest industrial-inspired luxury time pieces," said Lyon.

Red backlighting illuminates the gauges, while a panel of organic light-emitting diode screens is the foundation for the vehicle's navigation, infotainment, phone and climate control readouts. The screens represent the next generation in vehicle information displays, with bright, multidimensional readouts and intuitive controls that give the GMC Granite Concept a modern feel.

Integrated within GMC Granite Concept are unmistakable GMC cues, including a center stack wing motif similar to that of the new GMC Terrain. A prominent center console runs between the front and rear seats, with ports to plug in popular portable electronic devices, as well as storage compartments large enough for a laptop computer.

Among the most functional elements of the GMC Granite Concept are reconfigurable seats. The front passenger and right rear seats flip up and fold in toward the center console, creating a long, unobstructed storage space. The GMC Granite Concept functionally addresses the needs of young professionals and their activities without compromises.

The cargo area includes a number of compartments to store items out of sight. Cargo hold-down provisions are built into the cargo area and the seatbacks have clasps that can be used when the seats are upright or folded to help secure cargo.

The GMC Granite Concept's interior is finished with dark tones on the bottom and complementing, lighter colors on top, including suede-like Nubuck material on the seats and instrument panel. The interior is further accented by satin-finish and anodized trim. The instrument panel gives the impression of a command console, with driver-focused instruments and controls set in an anodized panel.

GMC Terrain, 2010

GMC Terrain, 2010

The GMC Terrain is a five-passenger crossover SUV that blends bold styling with fuel efficiency and premium features.

A new, 2.4L four-cylinder engine that features direct injection is expected to deliver best-in-segment highway fuel economy of 30 mpg. Maximum fuel economy is achieved in part with an "ECO" mode that is activated via a console-mounted button. When engaged, it lowers the torque converter lockup speed to 1,125 rpm to help save fuel on models equipped with the 2.4L engine.

With front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive models offered in SLE and SLT trim levels. 

The comprehensive purposeful technologies:
    * Standard rear vision camera
    * Programmable power rear liftgate
    * Bluetooth hands-free phone capability
    * MultiFlex sliding rear seat that increases passenger comfort or provides optimal cargo space
    * Remote vehicle start
    * USB audio connectivity; MP3 playback
    * Seven-inch touch-screen navigation system and a 40-gigabyte hard drive
    * DVD-based rear-seat entertainment system with two independent screens
    * Standard OnStar and XM Satellite Radio

Segment-best safety is anticipated, with features that include four-wheel disc brakes with StabiliTrak electronic stability control and traction control, as well as six standard air bags: dual frontal air bags; head curtain side air bags and pelvic/thorax seat-mounted side air bags. OnStar with one-year Safe and Sound service is also standard.

Bold styling
GMC Terrain has a balanced, athletic stance and offers a commanding view of the road. Its design is characterized by bold, muscular fender flares, representing GMC's aesthetic. Surfacing is angular yet refined, with a strong and capable front-end appearance that features precise, squared-off edges.
The additional design features include a unique, three-element grille that is accented by a prominent chrome surround and projector-beam headlamps mounted in large, rectangular housings with chrome accents.

The interior details and flexibility
The GMC Terrain's rich, premium interior is influenced by industrial sculpture and exudes refinement exemplified by contrast stitching and fine materials that create a structured look throughout the cabin. A "floating" center stack, highlighted by warm ambient lighting, houses a multitude of ergonomic comfort and convenience controls.

The GMC Terrain also features great attention to detail, with smart use of storage space and compartments that are suitable for a variety of items. They include an oversized glove box; a closed storage area in the instrument panel above the center stack; a closed storage compartment under the center armrest large enough for a laptop computer; and two-tier storage in the doors.

GMC Terrain's seats were developed to provide outstanding comfort and the standard MultiFlex sliding rear seat can be moved fore or aft nearly eight inches (200 mm), providing increased passenger comfort or greater rear cargo capacity. The 60/40-split rear seatback offers additional configurations for passengers and cargo; and the rear cargo area offers 31.6 cubic feet (894 liters) of storage, as well as one of the GMC Terrain's four auxiliary power outlets.

The Confident and agile driving experience
2 new engines are offered on all GMC Terrain models, each with fuel-saving direct injection and variable valve timing technology. 

 

Vehicle highlights:

• New 3.0L DOHC direct injected V-6 engine estimated at 264 horsepower (197 kW), which  delivers an estimated 25 mpg highway, 18 mpg city (EPA certification pending).
• New 2.4L Ecotec direct injected I-4 engine estimated at 182 horsepower (136 kW) that delivers an estimated 30 mpg highway, 21 mpg city (EPA certification pending)
• Driving range of more than 500 miles (800 km) with both engines, for less-frequent fill-ups

The powertrains are mounted on a rigid, body-integral structure, with single-piece body side stampings and targeted applications of high-strength steel. It is the foundation of a confident driving experience that is both smooth and responsive.

GM's first application of Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) technology is used on 2.4L-equipped models. ANC uses microphones to detect booming sounds inside the vehicle and sends counteracting sound waves through the audio system's speakers, ensuring a quiet driving experience at almost all vehicle speeds.

The GMC Terrain rides on a 112.5-inch (2,857 mm) wheelbase and features a four-wheel independent suspension system, with wide front and rear tracks that enhance the ride and handling. A family of 17-inch, 18-inch aluminum and 19-inch chrome-clad wheels is available.

GMC Terrain's rack-mounted electric power steering system provides greater fuel efficiency on four-cylinder-equipped models, saving nearly 11 miles per tank of gas.