Chevy, Cadillac offer new models, upgrades

MUNCIE -- Four all-new vehicles, as well as several upgrades to existing models, are among the changes to the Chevrolet and Cadillac car lines for 2010, say representatives of the local dealership. "In addition to our loyal customers, we're excited by the number of people visiting us for the first time," said Dale Aaron, assistant sales manager at American Chevrolet Cadillac of Muncie. "Among those changing over to Chevy or Cadillac from other brands are some who are purchasing their first-ever American-made vehicle."
New or completely-redesigned for 2010 are the Chevrolet Equinox and Camaro, the Cadillac SRX and a new Sport Wagon version of the Cadillac CTS.
Chevrolet Equinox
At up to 32 miles per gallon, the 2010 Equinox has the highest highway economy rating in its class, Chevrolet says.
The vehicle's mileage, refinement and build quality have been making for strong sales since the first of the new Equinoxes began arriving in Muncie about six weeks ago, according to Blake Absher of American.
"If people want to see what General Motors can do, come in and drive this Equinox and compare it to the foreign brands," he said. "The vehicle speaks for itself."
Chevrolet Camaro
The new Camaro, which reached showrooms this past March, has been popular among car enthusiasts, says Nate Allen, assistant sales manager at the dealership.
"For those who recall the early Camaros, the new one seems to bring back memories of happy times," he said. "But the younger people love this car just as much, for they have heard or read about the older Camaros and know how great they were, but they also know this one is much more advanced mechanically."
Cadillac SRX
Cadillac's luxury crossover vehicle, the SRX, has a new look and several upgraded features for 2010, Absher said.
"The SRX's climate control system now includes a humidity sensor and an air quality sensor to offer the ultimate in driver and passenger comfort," he explained.
SRX buyers can choose one of two new engines: a 265-horsepower, direct-injected, three-liter V6, or a 300-horsepower, turbocharged, 2.8-liter V6. Both engines offer high power levels from smaller displacement sizes to improve fuel economy and reduce emissions, Cadillac says.
Cadillac CTS
There have been updates to the CTS sedan, such as new choices of wheels, but the big change will come in a few weeks with the introduction of the CTS Sport Wagon, said Dale Aaron of American.
"The CTS Sport Wagon is essentially the same size as the acclaimed CTS sport sedan on the outside," Cadillac announced in a press release. "However, the new Sport Wagon nearly doubles carrying capacity, with 25 cubic feet of space behind the rear seats."
Malibu
While the car's design did not change for 2010, a six-speed automatic transmission now comes at no extra charge on more Malibu models, and the standard 2.4-liter, four-cylinder engine is now FlexFuel-capable, allowing it to run on either gasoline or E85.