The Chevrolet TrailBlazer is a mid-size SUV from the Chevrolet division of General Motors. It was introduced in 1999 as an upscale trim line of the Blazer, and became a model in itself for 2002. The rest of the Blazer line continued, but because of the new TrailBlazer, the TrailBlazer trim was discontinued. The TrailBlazer won the North American Truck of the Year award. The TrailBlazer replaced the Blazer as the company’s mid-size SUV, though production of the 2-door Blazer overlapped with the new 4-door TrailBlazer for some years (the 4-door Blazer was only produced for fleet orders).

The SUV is built on a truck platform, with all models having four-wheel drive as an option with both automatic engagement and the more traditional "4 High" and "4 Low" gearings. The vehicle has enough ground clearance to allow certain off-road usage. Its main disadvantage is its increased width (as compared to a Suzuki Samurai or a Jeep Wrangler) and lack of suspension travel, causing it to high side when it encounters high-camber-variance terrain or large rocks. Additionally, it lacks either locking hubs or a limited slip differential, though the latter is available as an option.

Engines

2002- LL8 4.2 L (256 in³) I6
2003- LM4 5.3 L (323 in³) V8

EXT

One unique element of the TrailBlazer line was the availability of a 3-row 7-passenger EXT version. This vehicle is 16 in (406 mm) longer and has a higher roofline to allow easier access to the third row of seats. This roof is disguised by standard roof racks.

Production of the EXT model was handled by the Oklahoma City Assembly plant in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. The last TrailBlazer EXT rolled off the assembly line on February 20, 2006, because GM had reportedly closed that plant, making 2006 the final year for the TrailBlazer EXT.

SS

An SS model was introduced for 2006 with the Chevrolet Corvette’s LS2 V8. This new Trailblazer is equipped with a 6.0 L LS2 V8 with 395 hp and 400 ft·lb of torque. It can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 5.8 sec (est), and can do the quarter mile in about 13.5 sec. at 100.0 mph (est).

The Chevrolet Tahoe (and similar GMC Yukon) is a full-size SUV from General Motors. Chevrolet and GMC sold two different-sized SUVs under their Blazer and Jimmy model names through the early 1990s. This situation changed when GMC rebadged the full-size Jimmy as the Yukon in 1992. Chevrolet waited until 1995′s introduction of a four-door version to rebadge the compact S-10 Blazer as the Blazer, renaming the full-size Blazer as the Tahoe.

The Chevrolet Tahoe and GMC Yukon currently serve as General Motors’ full-size SUVs. Lengthened wheelbase models are available for both as the Suburban for the Tahoe and Yukon XL for the Yukon. A luxury Denali model joined the Yukon lineup in 1998. As of 2002, a Denali version of the Yukon XL was also available as the Yukon XL Denali.

In the United States, the Tahoe is a popular alternative to the Ford Crown Victoria for police car use, especially in rural areas.

2000

The vehicles were redesigned for the 2000 model year on the new GMT800 platform, still shared with the full-sized pickups. Two new engines replaced the old 5.7 L small-block, and while both were smaller, both produced more power. The manual transmission was dropped. In Mexico, the GMT800 Chevy Tahoe is called a Chevrolet Sonora.

Both vehicles received significant updates with only the grille and headlights distinguishing one from the other. Both vehicles now featured softer lines as part of a more aerodynamic design. The interior was also updated with new seats, dashboard, and door panels.

"StabiliTrak" stability control was offered for the first time in 2003, as were XM Satellite Radio, Bose audio, and a DVD entertainment system as the models continued to climb upmarket. Both engines received 10 hp (7.5 kW) more for 2004.

The Chevrolet Monte Carlo is an American mid-size car. Originally introduced by Chevrolet for the 1970 model year (as competition with the Ford Thunderbird), it has gone through six generations to date. All Monte Carlos to date have been two-door coupes, closely based on a contemporary mid-sized sedan.

From its inception, the Monte Carlo also has been one of GM’s biggest successes on the NASCAR stock car racing circuit.

Sixth generation

For 2000, Chevrolet not only again called upon GM Motorsports for design inspiration, but also to Monte Carlos of the past. Among the traits carried over from older Monte Carlos were the stylized wheel flares, vertically-oriented taillamps, and a stylized rear bumper. Another classic trait for 2000 was the return of the "Knight" badging, not seen on the Monte Carlo since 1988. From the NASCAR circuit came the aerodynamic styling and duck tail spoiler as well as myriad commemorative and special edition packages.

Trim levels consisted of the LS and SS, the latter being the first front-wheel drive SS in the Chevrolet lineup. The former used a 3.4 L OHV V6, while the latter got the 3.8 L V6. A supercharged SS model was added for 2004 and 2005, though the naturally-aspirated SS continued as well.

The Chevrolet Corvette C5 is a sports car which started in 1997 and ended with the 2004 model year. It is the fifth generation of Chevrolet Corvettes built and marketed by Chevrolet.

The C5 was a radical change from the previous generation. The car now had a hydroformed box frame, the transmission was moved to the rear of the car to form an integrated rear-mounted transaxle assembly and is connected to the engine via a torque tube. The 4L60E automatic transmission carried on, but the manual was replaced by the Borg-Warner T-56. Gone were the squeaks and rattles of the C4, and in replacement was an incredibly strong frame that would last for at least two more generations. The new C5 was better in every aspect than the C4 it replaced.

Z06

A successor to the ZR-1 made its debut in 2001 as the Z06, a nod to the high performance Z06 version of the C2 Corvette of the 1960s. Instead of a heavy double-overhead cam engine like the ZR-1, the Z06 used a high-output (LS6), a tuned version of the standard Corvette’s (LS1) producing 385 hp (287 kW). Although the Z06′s total output was less than that of the last ZR-1′s, the Z06 was much lighter and faster than the ZR-1 in every category except for top speed.

Like with the ZR-1, Chevrolet found that added power output did the C5 platform little good without platform modifications to bring the rest of the car up to par, and a stiffer body, uprated suspension, larger wheels and tires, a new six-speed manual transmission, and functional brake cooling ducts became part of the total package. The Z06 is 106 lb (48 kg) lighter than a standard C5 thanks to a titanium exhaust, thinner glass, lighter wheels, and a lighter battery. From 2002 onward, the Z06 produced 405 hp (302 kW) thanks to minor modifications to the engine.

GM claimed that 405 hp versions of the Z06 could make the 0-60 run in 3.9 seconds, although 4.1 seconds was the best that magazine test drivers could produce. Amateur racers have gotten the C5 Z06 down the quarter mile in an incredible 11.7 seconds whereas the magazine drivers could only get a best of 12.2. The Z06 is capable of matching or beating the 0-60 times of some of the world’s premier sports cars, including the Ferrari 360 and the non-turbo version of Porsche’s 996 generation 911. The C5 Corvette Z06 is one of the best performance bargains under $100,000.

The 2004 Z06 Commemorative Edition came with a carbon fiber hood which saved a few pounds. It also received shock damping tuning to improve handling.

50th Anniversary

A 50th Anniversary Edition model was built in 2003 to celebrate a half century of Corvette production. A slightly modified 50th Anniversary Edition Corvette was chosen to pace the Indy 500 race in May, 2002. Available as a coupe or convertible, the 50th anniversary came with 50th Anniversary Red metallic paint and shale two-tone leather trim. Special aluminum wheels, trim, and badges completed the look. It included the LS1 engine and all of the convenience options offered on the upscale Corvette models.

C5-R

The C5-R was a racecar built by Pratt & Miller for GM Racing. It was based on the C5 road car but had a longer wheelbase, wider track, an enlarged 7.0 L V8 and different bodywork with exposed headlamps. It is raced in the American Le Mans Series in the GTS Class and has been to four 24 Hours of Le Mans races.

2001 The car’s remarkable 2001 racing season produced eight victories in ten races, including an overall win in the 24 Hours of Daytona and a one-two finish in the GTS class at Le Mans.

2002 In 2002 the C5-R repeated its one-two victory at Le Mans and also dominated the GTS class in the American Le Mans Series. A new transaxle unit replaced the previous year’s separate transmission and differential. Corvette faced stiff competition from the new Prodrive Ferrari 550 which led a good number of laps but had problems late leaving the victory to Corvette.

2003 In 2003, the Automobile Club de l’Ouest placed additional restrictions on all 24 Hours of Le Mans competitors, reducing power by 10% in an attempt to slow the cars. At the 2003 season-opening 12 Hours of Sebring race, the C5-Rs remained in winning form, with one of them finishing first in class and eighth overall. Also in 2003 the yellow paint was dropped in favor of a special red, white, and blue color scheme to commemorate the Corvette’s 50th anniversary. However, at Le Mans the Prodrive Ferraris spoiled the anniversary and hopes for a three-in-a-row victory in the GTS class.

2004 Corvette C5R came back in 2004 and won the 24 Hours of Le Mans in their class. The Prodrive Ferrari led most of the race, but with under 12 hours to go both the Prodrive cars had problems causing them to pit and lose laps. The Corvettes went on to finish 1-2. The number 64 car finished 16 laps ahead of the Ferrari.

2005 Corvette C5R was not done being successful. In FIA GT, the new Corvette Europe team won races at Imola and Zhuhai. The Euro team also managed a number of podium finishes. In the ALMS the Pacific Coast Racing team achieved some podiums behind the factory C6-R.

The Chevrolet Corvette C5 is a sports car which started in 1997 and ended with the 2004 model year. It is the fifth generation of Chevrolet Corvettes built and marketed by Chevrolet.

The C5 was a radical change from the previous generation. The car now had a hydroformed box frame, the transmission was moved to the rear of the car to form an integrated rear-mounted transaxle assembly and is connected to the engine via a torque tube. The 4L60E automatic transmission carried on, but the manual was replaced by the Borg-Warner T-56. Gone were the squeaks and rattles of the C4, and in replacement was an incredibly strong frame that would last for at least two more generations. The new C5 was better in every aspect than the C4 it replaced.

Z06

A successor to the ZR-1 made its debut in 2001 as the Z06, a nod to the high performance Z06 version of the C2 Corvette of the 1960s. Instead of a heavy double-overhead cam engine like the ZR-1, the Z06 used a high-output (LS6), a tuned version of the standard Corvette’s (LS1) producing 385 hp (287 kW). Although the Z06′s total output was less than that of the last ZR-1′s, the Z06 was much lighter and faster than the ZR-1 in every category except for top speed.

Like with the ZR-1, Chevrolet found that added power output did the C5 platform little good without platform modifications to bring the rest of the car up to par, and a stiffer body, uprated suspension, larger wheels and tires, a new six-speed manual transmission, and functional brake cooling ducts became part of the total package. The Z06 is 106 lb (48 kg) lighter than a standard C5 thanks to a titanium exhaust, thinner glass, lighter wheels, and a lighter battery. From 2002 onward, the Z06 produced 405 hp (302 kW) thanks to minor modifications to the engine.

GM claimed that 405 hp versions of the Z06 could make the 0-60 run in 3.9 seconds, although 4.1 seconds was the best that magazine test drivers could produce. Amateur racers have gotten the C5 Z06 down the quarter mile in an incredible 11.7 seconds whereas the magazine drivers could only get a best of 12.2. The Z06 is capable of matching or beating the 0-60 times of some of the world’s premier sports cars, including the Ferrari 360 and the non-turbo version of Porsche’s 996 generation 911. The C5 Corvette Z06 is one of the best performance bargains under $100,000.

The 2004 Z06 Commemorative Edition came with a carbon fiber hood which saved a few pounds. It also received shock damping tuning to improve handling.

50th Anniversary

A 50th Anniversary Edition model was built in 2003 to celebrate a half century of Corvette production. A slightly modified 50th Anniversary Edition Corvette was chosen to pace the Indy 500 race in May, 2002. Available as a coupe or convertible, the 50th anniversary came with 50th Anniversary Red metallic paint and shale two-tone leather trim. Special aluminum wheels, trim, and badges completed the look. It included the LS1 engine and all of the convenience options offered on the upscale Corvette models.

C5-R

The C5-R was a racecar built by Pratt & Miller for GM Racing. It was based on the C5 road car but had a longer wheelbase, wider track, an enlarged 7.0 L V8 and different bodywork with exposed headlamps. It is raced in the American Le Mans Series in the GTS Class and has been to four 24 Hours of Le Mans races.

2001 The car’s remarkable 2001 racing season produced eight victories in ten races, including an overall win in the 24 Hours of Daytona and a one-two finish in the GTS class at Le Mans.

2002 In 2002 the C5-R repeated its one-two victory at Le Mans and also dominated the GTS class in the American Le Mans Series. A new transaxle unit replaced the previous year’s separate transmission and differential. Corvette faced stiff competition from the new Prodrive Ferrari 550 which led a good number of laps but had problems late leaving the victory to Corvette.

2003 In 2003, the Automobile Club de l’Ouest placed additional restrictions on all 24 Hours of Le Mans competitors, reducing power by 10% in an attempt to slow the cars. At the 2003 season-opening 12 Hours of Sebring race, the C5-Rs remained in winning form, with one of them finishing first in class and eighth overall. Also in 2003 the yellow paint was dropped in favor of a special red, white, and blue color scheme to commemorate the Corvette’s 50th anniversary. However, at Le Mans the Prodrive Ferraris spoiled the anniversary and hopes for a three-in-a-row victory in the GTS class.

2004 Corvette C5R came back in 2004 and won the 24 Hours of Le Mans in their class. The Prodrive Ferrari led most of the race, but with under 12 hours to go both the Prodrive cars had problems causing them to pit and lose laps. The Corvettes went on to finish 1-2. The number 64 car finished 16 laps ahead of the Ferrari.

2005 Corvette C5R was not done being successful. In FIA GT, the new Corvette Europe team won races at Imola and Zhuhai. The Euro team also managed a number of podium finishes. In the ALMS the Pacific Coast Racing team achieved some podiums behind the factory C6-R.

The Chevrolet Cavalier was Chevrolet’s version of the compact GM J platform. The Cavalier was one of the most popular cars in the United States and Canada from its introduction in early 1981 as a 1982 model. Even in the 2000s, it was GM’s best selling car, trailing only the Camry, Accord, Civic, and Ford Taurus.

The Cavalier was Chevrolet’s entry-level car from 1989 to 1997 (1992 in Canada). The Cavalier is widely cited as the most successful of Chevrolet’s long line of cars aimed at combatting the influx of compact imported vehicles, starting with the Corvair, Vega, Monza and the Chevette, with the Cavalier leading up to current Cobalt. The Chevrolet Vega defined the subcompact class, before being replaced by both the niche-market Monza coupe and the Chevette. After the exit of the Vega, the Monza and Chevette would do little to expand Chevrolet’s share of small cars, but the arrival of the Cavalier would change this.

It was not the only J-car to use the Cavalier name; it was also used in the United Kingdom on the Vauxhall-badged version of the Opel Ascona C, and indeed the badge had been used by Vauxhall since 1976.

Predecessors

The relatively short-lived three-door Accord-like hatchback replaced the stylish Monza, which was only available as a 3-door hatchback and thinly disguised Vega wagon. The small Chevette was retained even as sales declined, and was formally replaced by even smaller captive imports. But the largely successful mission of capturing the bulk of domestic compact sales would fall on the Cavalier’s two-door sedan, four-door sedan and four-door wagon. The small Cavalier even helped fill in lagging sales of the mid-size Chevrolet Citation (a Chevrolet Nova replacement).

Criticisms

The Cavalier had major restylings in 1988 and 1995. Yet despite strong sales, the car was widely panned and criticized by experts in automotive publications for its aging platform and interior design and quality. The Cavalier would have poor crash test ratings, most notably the high risk of pelvic injury in the third generation model (according to the NHTSA).

Production

Cavaliers were built in Lordstown, Ohio, although they have also been produced in Lansing, Michigan, Janesville, Wisconsin, and Ramos Arizpe, Coahuila, Mexico.

Production of the Cavalier ended in October 2004, with the last 2005 model year Cavalier rolling off the Lordstown Assembly Plant line on October 6, and the very last Cavalier off the Ramos Arizpe Assembly Plant line on September 1. The Cavalier was replaced by the 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt in the United States and Canada, Cobalt and Chevrolet Optra in Canada and Mexico, and Chevrolet Astra in Mexico.

Generations

+ First generation (1982-1987)
+ Second generation (1988-1994)
+ Third generation (1995-2005)

The Chevrolet Camaro was introduced in North America by the Chevrolet Motor Division of General Motors at the start of the 1967 model year as competition for the Ford Mustang. Camaro advertising would first be found on AM top-40 stations of the day – stations which appealed to young adults. Although it was technically a compact car (by the standards of the time), the Camaro, like the entire class of Mustang competitors, was soon known as a pony car. It may also be classified as an intermediate touring car, a sports car, or a muscle car. The car shared the same platform and major components with the Pontiac Firebird, also introduced in 1967. Production of both cars ceased in 2002 with only the Camaro going back into production in 2009.

Though the car’s name was contrived with no meaning, GM researchers reportedly found the word in a French dictionary as a slang term for "friend" or "companion." In some automotive periodicals before official release, it was code-named "Panther." Historical examples exist of Chevrolet product managers being asked by the automotive press "what is a Camaro?", with the tongue-in-cheek answer being "a small, vicious animal that eats Mustangs," a sideways reference to the competing Ford Mustang.

The Camaro was the flagship for Chevrolet, and was for many years one of its most popular models. If its frequent inclusion in automotive enthusiast magazines is any indication, the Chevy Camaro is one of the most popular cars for modification in automotive history.

2002

The Camaro remained almost completely unchanged from 1998 to 2002. Sales continued to decline as the market gradually switched to smaller four and six-cylinder powered cars. GM announced that 2002 would be the final year of production for the Camaro, as sales numbers were not high enough to justify a redesign and the car could not be priced high enough to make low volume production profitable.

A new dash plaque above the audio system commemorated the 35th anniversary of Camaro production.

A special 35th Anniversary Edition was offered for the SS trim level. It included nose-to-tail stripes, embroidery on the front headrests, and unique 17" wheels. The 35th Anniversary Camaro was only available as a convertible or with T-tops. 3,000 Camaros with the anniversary package were produced for the United States and 152 for Canada.

The final fourth-generation Camaro was built on August 27, 2002; Total production for 2002 was 42,098. The Sainte-Thérèse plant, the only GM plant in Canada outside of Ontario, then closed down.