Drive Time

That's good news. The Aura, though not as sharply styled as the concept, looks pretty good. I hope it can start to make a dent in those Camry/Accord sales.

Now get busy on the affordable RWD performance sedans! Please hurry, Pontiac's on life support!!

The Aura looks very much to be a knock out! How about the 3.9 AFM with the new 6 speed? That would seem to be a very good combo. will the 3.5 get AFM too?

Although I like the power of the 3.9 in my G6 GTP coupe, the gas mileage is pretty low. Around town, I usually get 17-18, and on a trip where I used the cruise control and really concentrated on fuel economy I squeezed out 32mpg, but it required constant attention to do that. Since the 3.9 was a new engine, why hold off on the active cylinder management until now ? Since you just released the engine this model year, you surely had this already planned.
Too late for me.

Bob, you said that you got lots of “what is THAT” looks while driving the Saturn Aura. Perhaps its just amongst GM fans like me that you're a celebrity, but could it have instead been "Is that Bob Lutz driving?" looks you were getting? Regardless, the Aura is indeed a great looking car.

Still, I wish GM had its global sharing plan more smoothed out, and we could get a turbocharged Vectra instead of a restyled Epsilon with a 60-degree OHV V6 base, and GM wouldn't have needed to spend all sorts of money on another Epsilon variant while Mexico has the Chevrolet Vectra just south of the border.

Speaking of 60-degree V6's, I'm glad you addressed the 3900 with AFM question of fuel economy, as you may be aware there were grumblings about that on a certain GM enthusiast / news board.

I personally will be getting the 3.5LVVT Impala with the E-85 option this Fall, and am slightly disappointed that the improved 3900 LTZ with AFM will not offer E-85 compatibility. even though it apparently will in the fleet-only Uplander (what's that about?). Just means GM lost the opportunity to sell me more options. I'll instead need to try to load up an LT3 with Bose speakers, flip & fold rear seats, and other things just to get a nicely equipped Impala with a Flex Fuel capable engine.

Good job with the AFM. I haven't driven a car with it yet but if it truly has an almost seamless transition from 8/6 to 4/3 and vice versa then you should be putting it on all engines and models. Yes, even Corvette.

Bob,

If you got looks in the Aura, just imagine the looks you would get if it was the Astra TwinTop. They would be flabbergasted it was a Saturn, especially if there was VXR model of it.

And please, please don't let the ad agency that created the HGTV ads for the Sky ever get their hands on the Sol.

Ref: Get a taste of great design

You need to fix the foglamps on the Aura. They now look like drooping eyelids and half asleep. They should look aggressive like on the concept.
The parking brake belongs on the console, not on the floor. That goes for the malibu also.
And please increase your warranties. What are you waiting for?

Bob,

This is a little off topic, but I just finshed watching this Camaro clip. All I can say is I cant wait to buy it!
Awesome job! keep up the good work!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z5aZkQrNnx0&search=camaro

I thought this would happen sooner or later, you're turning this blog into a pep rally instead of implementing the feedback from potential customers.
"We're so great, our cars get such great mileage, we're going to do this in three years, we're going to do that maybe someday."
I get the impression from discussion with other Pontiac enthusiasts that we're being sold down the river again. The Solstice is a great little car. Its splash is being dried up by releasing a Saturn version of the same car. If that is such a great marketing strategy
where are the big Pontiac SUVs? All this talk of fuel mileage is fine for the commuter crowd, but what about the work truck folks? Why isn't there a Pontiac block version of a huge V8 to mirror the 502? It wouldn't take much to get it going, there is already an aftermarket aluminum engine block and aluminum heads for sale to fit Pontiac V8s so there is an obvious demand for non-Chevrolet derived "corporate engines."
The LS7 is a great engine, but it wouldn't be too useful for pulling a trailer.
The loyal Pontiac folk want a real Pontiac engine to power real musclecars, and if necessary, muscle SUVs. I don't mean a Suburban with a Pontiac grille either, like you did to the early Escalade. (eyes rolling) Think about the crappy Honda (Avalanche wanna-be) that won MT's truck of the year. Why not build a Pontiac version of that? Except with rear wheel drive , of course. Add some useful features, especially power. Pontiac power. It doesn't have to be the ultimate gadget-freak showcase, just stuff we can use.

i'm excited to hear that the drivers around you were gocking over your saturn!

The saturn might be making my next list of vehicles, also the impala, sounds intruiging to me, as much as we sell here i think the rear leg room needs to be worked on, many customers 6' and over cant fit in the back seat :(

Happy to hear about the Aura. The mileage on the Impala sounds good. However, I think small trubo motors are the way to go. My 2005 SAAB 9-3 Linear averages 31 - 32 mpg. Most of my driving is on rural roads and interstates but this is impressive none the less. I also have plenty of power for passing.

Bob:

I agree that the Saturn is a great looking car. The front fascia is particularly attractive. How about a coupe iteration for those of us w/o kids?

Regarding the Impala's AFM, I think it's a great idea. With rising fuel prices and the rising threat of global warming, fuel mileage is critical in my mind. However, I'm also a performance enthusiast and I can't stand losing a race to my brother in his '04 IS 300. The 3.9 w/ AFM appears to offer a good balance between performance and economy. I hope this technology will be available in the Pontiac G6 Coupe as well. Now how about a 6-speed automatic even more performance and economy?

I too love the Aura, but continue to be saddened by GM's lack of true boldness. They took the very sexy concept car, put boring alloy wheels on them (they look like they were stolen from the 90's Chrysler Concorde), and then "softened" the interior with cheap looking plastic wood. They put sensible shoes and an old lady dress on the porn star. It needs to keep it's European feel. While we are on the subject, we DO want a manual transmission with the bigger engine, and any proper sport sedan with upscale aspirations needs a wagon as well. GM, you need to think more Astra, less Ion.

When is the Chevy Colorado SS version going to be coming out? You need to put the in-line 6 cyclinder (already in the Trailblazer) in the truck for extra fun. I would not complain if the 5.3L V-8 was put in the truck as well (that would be cool)--- However, a word of caution, please do not put the larger engine in the Colorado and lower the ground clearence of the truck. Please add a larger engine with the Z-71 suspension so speed and big ground clearence is maintained. Thanks for hearing from a true Chevy fan and current Colorado owner!

Concerning the comment by Mr. Thomas:

32 mpg is about 7.3 liters for 100 Kilometers (=62.5 miles), as we calculate in Europe. I am sure there's hardly a single European car with a 240 HP-6-cyl.-engine (running on gasoline), which makes it possible to get 32 mpg, even if you are constantly doing not more than 60 mph on the highway. My neighbor's BMW 3-series (2.5/6 cyl./194 HP) only gets 18 mpg COMBINED. I believe, he better doesn't consider the mileage, when he's only driving in the city, otherwise the fun about his car definitely will be gone. So far, I basically don't think there's anything seriously wrong with the mileage of GM-cars.

There's another thing, I'd like to add. Some people say, GM's warranties are too short. For example, as I saw at the GM Brand-Websites the warranty is valid for 3 or 4 years. Well, in the meantime there might be competitors, which offer longer warranties, but what should we say over here? All German manufacturers just offer 2 years, but despite of that, most people don't run to Japanese or Korean dealerships.

I hope the quality of those cars are better than the quality of the G6 GTP coupe I bought. I've only had it 6 months and it's been at the dealer more than any car I've ever owned. It is fast approaching the Lemon Law threshold.

A little praise for a change. I had an accident with my maxima and received an Uplander as a loaner while my car was being repaired.

I was pleasantly surprised by the radio controls in that van. There were great to use, they felt really good, smooth yet precise and they looked very good. This is a nice change since I always hated Chevrolet, Pontiac, Buick interiors.

Great job!

The AUra loks a nice car, but why no AFM option as well?
How about a racing program fioor the Aura, if it's a basically good handling car?

Bob,

Saturn is definately a place where GM is going the right direction.

1. Expanding and improving product line.

2. Moving upscale.

3. Referbishing the dealerships.

4. Product integration with Opel.

Hybrids, crossovers, Redlines, Greenlines.

Bob this is exactly what you need to do, everything.

I have been in retail since I was 16 and I found out the customer wants one thing.

EVERYTHING!

Bob use the Kappa platform to make every typoe of car conceivable. You have to get more use out of each platform like Honda does.

The idea that you have too many vehicle choices is a lie straight out of the book "Penny Wise and Pound Foolish". No, not too many choices, too many similar choices is the problem. Don't leave innovative product and packaging to Mercedes, Honda, Dodge and Chrysler that would leave you 5 years behind; AGAIN.

You have more experience than anyone in the industry now, use it to bring back the classics. It's not so much we can win them over with classic designs as much as the fact we can appeal to more tastes by offering a wider variety of styles in both classic and modern variations.

This is something only a handful of automakers can do, and right now you need every advantage you can get.

People may well be surprised when they see the fuel economy label on an Impala, only because I don't know a single person who owns one. They're all fleet cars and rental vehicles bought in bulk.

I recently had the pleasure of driving two Impalas (both rentals) for two different road trips: one exploring the twisting country roads of the beautiful Lighthouse Trail of coastal Nova Scotia; and the other on a 2000km interstate round trip from Montréal to Washington DC and back. I really enjoyed both trips. Apart from some lower back pain caused by a drivers seat in which I was having trouble getting comfy, the Impala is a great car for burning up the miles. It looks smart too, and finally the cabin quality matches that of the imports.

But not once did we get better mileage than 17 mpg. And now you're getting excited about 29 mpg.

Listen Bob. My 13 year old Saab can get 31 mpg. Heck, GM had already bought Saab thirteen years ago. So why is it taking so long? I'd expect 29mpg of every Chevrolet passenger car without the need for complex cylinder management systems.

As for the Aura, I still Chevrolet or Pontiac has greater need of a killer mid-size sedan.

*j*

Bob,

It's great that you'll have a technologically advanced 3.9L V6 with ACM. Just out of curiosity though, when will it be expanded throughout Chevy's lineup to other cars that desperately need the engine? What kind of power is it producing on a per liter basis? When will we be able to see some real fuel mileage testing (I know you said that the car currently is averaging 29+ over a couple thousand miles)? Finally, when will you drag out back the idiot that designed the current generation of cars and run him over in one using this new 3.9? That may seem a little harsh, however what good does it do to offer such a sweet engine package if the car is too ugly to sell without incentives (thereby reducing the profitability of the vehicle)?

Thanks,
Desperate for a Great New Car
aka Nathan Lawless
Indianapolis, IN

30 mpg is a good number, but not unusual for the "obsolete" 3800 in a car like the Bonneville, LeSabre, Olds 88, etc.

I had one each of those in the late 80/early 90s and they were all excellent cars.

Bob,

The new Saturns are looking good. Is Saturn missing the customer though who might like a rougher look with a less chrome?

The Saturn website is difficult to access, its needs to be fixed, everytime you click on a Saturn ad or type the Saturn website it as prompts to install Macromedia flash player. This is very irritating, still haven't had time to sit through it. This is an urgent problem, people won't take the time to install Macromedia flash player every time they want to see Saturn.

Bob,

There is one thing about Saturn that simply mystifies me. Saturns are, by and large, simply rebadged Opels right? So why not just dispense with the Saturn name and call the cars Opels? Then you would have one less brand to manage and the Opel name with its European cachet may actually impart some glow to the cars and better enable them to more safely move upmarket. It would also better centralize marketing.

Just curious as to why the multiplicity of names to describe essentially the same product in this situation. I can understand the seeming explanation in the GMT 900 multiplicity but those vehicles are positioned differently and sell at different price points (Tahoe - Escalade). But Saturns and Opels appear to be targeted at the same demographics and price points, just on different sides of the pond.

I find that inefficient and odd.

Regarding Sam Houston's comment: Pontiac doesn't need SUV's. period. The reason being that in almost all dealerships that sell Pontiacs, they also sell GMC trucks. In fact, i wouldn't mind any future Pontiac Minivans and SUV's be relabeled GMC so as not to dilute the performance image that Pontiac is trying to reclaim.

That said, The Aura is a very nice looking car, though if it has fake wood I'd have to start wondering why such a car would even need to pretend to have wood trim. This doesn't seem to be a car that would require it. In fact, to me wood trim, real or fake, would be quite out of place on the Aura.

Bob,

Since you mentioned fuel economy, I have wondered why all the hype about the current hybrids. I recently took a test drive of a Lexus 400H. True the drive was short and only around town. However, monitoring the instantaneous fuel economy revealed 12.9 mpg as compared to carefully driving my BMW X-5 in manual (5th gear when possible) under the same conditions getting 16.1 mpg?

My conclusion is that the electric motor does very to help fuel economy if it shuts down at 25 miles per hour.

Now, the direct question: As American auto companies continue to lose market share to all the competition, would not a truly economical vehicle using a combination of hybrid technology in a more sensible configuration, applying active cylinder management, flex-fuel, weight reduction and better aerodynamics provide a winning product for your company?

Hybrid technology in a more sensible configuration is defined as a plug-in charge at night and to drive only on the electric motor until detecting a certain level of battery depletion. Perhaps, 50 miles or greater covering the distance most people travel to work. Taking the idea one optional step further, employers might be willing to allow workers to plug in during the day making the total commute gasoline free.

What about it?

The Aura looks great, I can't wait to test drive one. I am still waiting for The Astra OPC Saturn variant.

Congratulations on recieving top honors for the 2nd year in a row on the 2006 Strategic Vision Total Quality Study. Beating out Toyota, Honda, Nissan and the premium Euro brands.

GM needs to take out a full page add in USA Today touting this accomplishment. Also a full page add in the NYT addressed to Mr.Friedman.

I am sure the Aura and other new models coming in the near future will help improve ratings in future quality surveys and studys. Slowly but sureley GM will turn the tide on negative preceptions about it's vehicles.

Keep up the good work.

The Aura seems like a nice car but I think GM is missing the big picture. New cars are going to need to be more fuel efficient. I am the owner of a 2005 Chevrolet Aveo Special Value Model, manual transmission, hatchback. I am not the only one disappointed with the fuel economy of their Aveo. The Aveo has the most potential in the GM line-up to be a fuel efficient vehicle at an entry level price. The Toyota Yaris and Honda Fit represent the trend toward this style of vehicle. The next trend setting vehicle will be an economically priced hybrid. GM could benefit from marketing a hybrid version of the Chevrolet Aveo.

My mothers 2006 Impala is getting 15MPG city driving.
Her old Celebrity got 20MPG.
Not impressed.
The Impala is a big car but the rear seat has almost no leg room-how did you manage that one?
There is no telescoping steering wheel so its impossible to get completely confortable.
The brake pedal juts out a few inches above the gas pedal making gas to brake action annoyingly uncomfortable.
The seats are not very comfortable.
I'm thinking some thought went into the looks of the interior but not the function. Could you possibly try doing both?

One more thing about Saturn. If you kill the Ion without a entry level ($13,000) car you are making a big mistake. Saturn must have an entry level car (and $16,000 is not entry level!)

Can't understand the pride shown in Impala milage.
My '91 Cadillac DeVille did 26 mpg at 70 mph;
the '99 STS clocked 25 mpg at 70 -plus regularly.

Gearing may be something to look at.

Many posts in this blog talk about the Firebird (bring it back!) or the Camaro (build it soon!) or the Corvette (awesome!).

All that is fine, but a perfectly executed sedan (value, quality, etc.) to compete and overtake the Accord/Camry/Altima will do more for GM than any Camaro.

Like it or not, outside of trucks, the vast majority of people buy a Camry, or a Malibu, or an Accord, or a Corolla, or a car like that. And they base their perception of GM's overall car lineup on those cars. And GM is still not there...yet.

Just think if GM got as good of reviews on the Malibu/Impala/Aura as they did on the Tahoe and Suburban?? That would truly signify that GM is turning things around.

And, like SteveG says, increase your warranties. Keep is plain and simple...no fine print.

Tom

Bob,

The sad truth is that, although this car and other new cars from GM may be as good/better than Accord and Camry, etc, they may not sell to their full potential - at least in this model cycle. It will likely take several years for the public perception of Saturn (and more generally, GM) to change.

As a result, these cars, no matter how well screwed together, will not sell as well as if they had a Honda badge. The important point is that products like these will change perceptions - but it will take time.

Thanks,
Chris

Bob: When will GM put AFM on the 3800 in the Lucerne, LaCrosse and Grand Prix? This engine has balance shafts in it and may even be able to run on 3 cylinders at idle.

Adding VVT to the 3800 would bump the power up to 230 HP and be good for 30 to 32 MPG.

The very strong torque curve of the 3800 may even tolerate a 6-speed automatic with AFM.

I can get 30 MPG from my supercharged 3800 at a 75 MPH cruise and 22 MPG is repeatable in all around driving without much effort.

The 3800 is a great engine and many buyers purchase a GM car just because that engine is in it. GM should keep making it and spend some money on refinements. It is still one of the lowest emission producing engines that GM makes and one of the most reliable.

I have never driven a 3800 powered car that seemed like it could use more power, not even a car with the smaller 3.3L version. Granted we are talking family cars here but keeping up with fast lane traffic and climbing hills were never an issue. They all got high 20’s to low 30’s in MPG on the highway.

As for the 3.9L AFM engine it should be used in the Colorado mated to the 5L40E 5-speed automatic.
A 3800 would be good choice also and the 260 HP supercharged version could be used for an SS version.
The ultimate would be a 300 HP turbo version from the old Grand National with a 6-speed manual or auto.

The 3.6L would be another candidate for the Colorado and is used on the Holden Rodeo.

The 3500 V-6 with AFM would be a great addition to the Malibu or the HHR (if it would fit).

Really would like to see GM take advantage of their 60 degree OHV V6 engines small package and light weight by putting them in anything it will fit into. Chevy made a name for itself by doing things like this with V8’s in the 1960’s.

Hey, instead of an article about the latest Saturn and Impala (both overweight front drivers with minimal driving feel, no stick shift option, and styling by Sominex), how about pointing out:

That you actually WON THE 24HRS OF LEMANS!!! (and took 3rd in the other car.)

I mean, you have several posts about the build-up to the event, but nothing when you win?

Come on.

I know rear wheel drive sedans are all the rage with a lot of Fastlane contributors, but don't go overboard. In ice and snow country, front wheel drive still makes more sense. For me, a front wheeel drive car is the primary vehicle and a rear wheel drive vehicle is a specialty or hobby vehicle. Four wheel drive or all wheel drive add excessive complexity, weight and cost. Traction control and stability control are great but work regardless of which wheels are powered. California or Arizona may have different expectations, but front drive competitors like the Camry do very well in those markets, so maybe not. GM as a full-line manufacturer needs to do all of these categories well. The Aura looks promising and the updated styling and interior on the Impala are major improvements. The variable displacement option for the 2007 Impala with improved real world fuel economy shows responsiveness to changing market needs and expectations. Keep it up.

Dear Mr. Lutz,

Please consider making an Aura version of the Opel Signum/Malibu Max. Please leave the car almost identical to the Signum and offer a manual trans with a Turbo Diesel or large 4 cylinder gasoline engine (maybe a turbo?). Please.

And while you are at it Sir, please look into that cheap looking muffler that hangs down underneath the Malibu Max; that is really silly.

Good work on the Aura, and the new Buicks and Cadillacs. Cannot wait to see the rear wheel drive cars in the next few years.

I am a huge fan of Saturn's new direction BUT...

...the Aura's interior is poor! It looks nothing like the fantastic Opel interiors Europe gets.

Bob, Please sit in a new Opel Astra and then sit in a Saturn Aura...why the difference?
Was the Aura's interior designed in the USA??
You should have put an Opel interior in it.

But anyhow, the car should do well, it is great!

The next thing Saturn needs is a large RWD sedan with european styling and american sports appeal...why not source the new Holden Commodore??

Hello Bob! I know this is a Saturn blog, but I need to comment about the 3800 engine as others have. I also read that it's scheduled to be discontinued around 2009 (I think).

Bob, many (myself included) will be sad to see that iron workhorse go! In my opinion, you can't buy a better engine. Some buyers (myself included) would go "out of their way" to get a vehicle with that engine!

Maybe you can start a blog on the 3800 engine to get input. Bet you'll get Mucho replies!

Have A Good Day and keep up the Good Work!

In regards to Daniel P Winegarden's post stating

"In ice and snow country, front wheel drive still makes more sense."

I must respectfully disagree. With the power levels available for performance sedans FWD no longer makes sense. Trust me, I drive the 303HP Grand Prix GXP and it only works well with the offset tire sizes and vehicle-specific Bridgestones (custom TPC spec) for controlling torque steer. Drive the Impala SS and you'll see that 303HP is too much for that car's rolling stock.

RWD with traction AND stability control is perfectly acceptable, even for those of us in the snow belt. If GM has an affordable RWD V8 performance sedan available when I replace my GXP, it'll definitely be on my short list.

The 3800 hasn't improved its horsepower rating since at least the year 2000, and in some cases has gone down. I'll be more than happy to see the 3900 with VVT and AFM completely replace it. Anyone who "swears by" the 3800 probably hasn't test driven one of the new 3.5L and 3.9L OHV V6's since the 2006 model year.

The 3800's era is gone. GM didn't keep improving it. Now Hyundai actually has a 3.8L DOHC V6 with more horsepower than a Series II Supercharged 3800, which was sold in the Monte and Impala SS up until the 2005 model year. And the 3800 in the Lucerne gets a whopping 60 or so less horsepower than the Korean competitors same displacement engine.

While there might be a lot of folks mourning the 3800's passage, there are many of us who want to see that embarassing sign of GM not putting money into its R&D just go away.

Long live the 224hp 3.5L VVT OHV! (And GM, come up with a decent code-name for the thing!)

The new cars from GM are terrific....

The Saturn Aura is another example of the come back!

RE: G6 GTP Comments

First of all, where/how are you driving to get 32 mpg?! The best I've achieved on my 06 G6 GTP sedan is 21.5 avg mpg. I must be doing something wrong.

Second of all, sorry to hear the coupe has been a lemon. I love my sedan, and it's been problem free. I've had it about 6 months now. I was really surprised when I read that comment.

John, GM sells all the Corvettes it builds so it does not need to advertise them and if GM would do this the gas milage fanatics would be saying GM should spend the racing budget on improving the gas milage. I own a 2005 C-6 Corvette,#10 since 1959, and it is the best VETTE yet

GM earned quality-awards again, as seen yesterday at "Road And Track":
http://www.roadandtrack.com/article.asp?section_id=14&article_id=3641

To CF: As I said in my posting, 32mpg from my G6 GTP Coupe takes some effort. I can get that on trips that are mostly highway, if I use the cruise control set at between 60-65, and anticipate changes in traffic speed and react by backing down or bumping up the cruise control instead of braking or accellerating whenever possible. It took a lot of effort, but I was trying to see just how high I could get with it. As I said, I only get 18 or so around town. I haven't had any problems with mine, except for a couple of interior plastic squeaks, which probably annoy me more than most people.

For some candid comments by owner/rental drivers of Pontiacs, you should read the posts here:
http://autopia.org/forum/showthread.php?t=73373

Tom Friedman:
To all bloggers, Tom Friedman has no clue about anything he writes. He is a left wing fanatic that hates the United States and wants to get an assist in destroying the largest remaining US auto manufacturer. He lies and lies and lies and nobody really knows when he is actually telling the truth since he could only tell truth by accident. GM has full size SUV's which deativate 1/2 the engine at highway speed. Mercedez Benz has a new SUV the size of a football field that gets 2 gallons to the mile, here anything from Tom Friedman??????

Jeff C,

Normally I like a good rant, but your rant doesn't really make any sense. I think Friedman is a left-wing nut, but he was commenting on America and American car companies. Last time I checked, Mercedes was a German luxury brand that has absolutely nothing to do with the US. If you wanted to make a fair comparison, you could talk about the other arm of DaimlerBenz, which is the American auto manufacturer Chrysler. The fuel economy on their SUVs is generally terrible, even with the cylinder shutdown feature on the Hemi. Comparing their lineup to GMs would be fair, as well as criticizing Friedman for singling out GM as opposed to all of the major American automakers. If you're going to rant, please make a logical argument in the process that has a point somewhat related to the topic at hand. This thread happens to be about the styling and fuel economy of GMs new passenger car products.

Mr Lutz said, "Simply put, I enjoyed it very much. It’s a very refined, very civilized car, beautifully put together, with impressive levels of quiet, and wonderful handling."

Mr Lutz,

With all due respect, it should be refined, civilized, and have great handling -- from the litle picture on your blog, it looks like a copy of the Opel Vectra.

Your Opel division makes great cars in Germany, why don't you just bring that engineering and design skill over here?

Saturn does have an interesting opportunity, if GM doesn't miss it. The entire Opel line needs to be sold here in the US as Saturns. Why? Quite obviously to help ensure that the entry buyer actually has GM cars available new that they actualy want to own. many of the cars are made in Mexico or Brazil, so the Spring Hill plant could be entirely given over to all the permutations of the Astra in order to replace the ION. I do agree though, that the cars will need the nicer interiors that the Opels seem to be getting.

If you need "Benchmarks' for interior quality in the US, look no farther than Volkswagen in materials and fit and finish. I've heard their reliability in general leaves a bit to be desired, but they have really well done interiors which should be studied closely by GM in order to see how they can make interiors so nice, and not price their cars out of the market.

Speaking of interiors, I do find it rather ironic that the one moderatly priced GM vehicle that had a very well done interior, was the one whose exterior scared small children. The Aztek. If GM can get both the inside and the outside right on your CARS then I think good press is sure to follow. until then, please stop reaching behind yourselves on this blog trying to pat yourselves on the back.

Diesel Cadillac??
Bob:
You are shipping a Diesel Cadillac in europe based on a 1.9 liter turbo diesel motor that gets amazing gas mileage, and yet not a single GM car is available in Diesel here in the US. What gives? Why the big story about US not liking diesel motors? Market the exceptional qualities of the new common rail diesel motors and put it it into a sexy package, and everyone will want it. If I want to buy a diesel GM vehicle here, I have to buy a full size truck, and not even a short wheel base truck, an extra cab or long bed truck with a 6+ liter engine. My only option to run American Made Biodiesel fuel in a vehicle that gets decent mileage is to buy a VW. My VW gets 45MPG. My chevy truck, with a 6 cylinder and stick shift still only gets 15MPG. You know all too well that many large trucks and vans in europe rarely run larger than 2.4 liter engines, and most passenger vehicles use that same 1.9 liter common rail diesel motor. The VW Lupo gets 95MPG on a small turbo diesel motor. How about an all wheel drive diesel wagon with a small engine?

Waiting patiently,

-Gil

Lutz,
Can I believe my eyes! What was that you wrote?

"I have found time to get behind the wheel of some of our vehicles.."?

What has been taking precedent over driving your GM's own vehicles? Don't they need attention, and have to be right, above all else? Your hype is nothing more then that. Well hype it, and they will not come, you have proved for the last 15% of lost market share.

I have confidence that the Aura (or is that Aurora?), is just a G6 clone, is just a Malibu clone, is just a generic GM midsize with marketing spin is some committee-justified direction.

I bet it has the same heavy and numb steering, and the same clumsy and lethargic handling, as all GM products.

Salsa,

You need to get away from the big trucks if you think everything GM makes is clumsy and lethargic. In fact, most of the new models actually handle quite well for what they are. Right now, it's mainly down to details. Important details such as fit and finish, the quality and feel of the materials used, and how they all come together.

Now, as for transmissions, which i know someone will bring up. GM really doesn't need a huge number of gears. Why? Quite simply, GM never got caught in the trap of making high revving engines with really narrow powerbands like some of the Japanese companies have done. There really is no need for VVT or any of the other stuff, since GM engines largely have very broad powerbands which make power available from lower RPM's all the way to upper RPM's. All a 6 speed automatic would do would increase gear hunting. An annoyance that 6 speed auto owners of other companies' vehicles are experiencing. In my opinion, if anything, an overbuilt CVT would work better. If GM could build a CVT that could happily take anything the LS7 V8 could dish out, then that information could be used to make bullet proof CVT's for all of GM's engines.

I remember reading once that all of the top executives at Toyota are required to drive all of the models of the company's cars on a rotation basis. So, at some time, the CEO may well find himself driving their least expensive model. I think it is a good sign that you, Bob, are actually sampling your company's products on the road, but I suspect most of the GM executive suite occupants arrive at work by limosine. As a result, they see their products as just brands, not as individual cars.

Mr Lutz, it is great to see Saturn taking a lead and producing what may be GMs best mid size so far. With the Astra also (rumoured to be?) joining the Saturn range, Saturn could have GM's best small car also... and possibly one of the best small cars on the market. How about bringing in Holden's soon to be released VE Commodore as a Saturn Commodore? While I'm sure the marketing guys can come up with a better name, it could be GM's best large car and very much worthy of the Saturn bagde. And unlike the GTO/Monaro, there are no expectations as to how this car should look.. if anything, the Holden will likey be quite Euro looking which suites Saturn perfectly.

Bob

Performance wise I'm impressed with the Aura, looks wise it lacks the Aura! (of an Accord / Camry)

What happened to GM styling? Which was once upon a time the "leader" and today appears to be a "follower"?

The 3/6 cylinder story is great, I drive a 92 Fleetwood here in Dubai, UAE and I get better mileage on it than my wife's Malibu (2002, V6, 3.1) [I get 14.8l/100km, she gets 20l/100km sorry we talk litres here :-)

Anyway, I have some ideas on GM styling makeover, anyone interested, mail me!

Cheers and enjoy the Aura while it lasts!

I think GM styling needs a makeover, techwise, you guys arent THAT bad, but styline... no comments, those interested, I've got a presentation that I can email you on the topic! Cheers!

Some reasons why we GM fans are so frustrated:
1. You finally come out with a decent (but nowhere near world class) small car in the Cobalt. Then, for 2 years you make no improvements. What about more interior storage space in the console and elsewhere that people clamor for? Where is the tilt and telescoping steering wheel that your competition has? Why not improve the interior materials that people complain about? Repositioning the E-Brake so you dont have to lift the console to get to it? How about making more elbow room by removing the door storage pocket and putting storage in the console bin? Etc etc. Nothing has been done in any way except for a new stereo and removing ABS as standard on the LT.
2. The Malibu is left to rot with its awful interior design. E-brake still on the floor. Still has the 2.2 Ecotec as base engine instead of the 2.4 it should have. Still a 4 speed automatic.
3. Lucerne still has an old base powertrain, You want to compete with lexus with the 3800? No tilt and telescoping steering wheel on a luxury car? Please.
4. Equinox gets no interior improvements, and still has old powertrain while Rav4 gets a much better engine. Wheres the tilt and telescoping steering wheel?
5. HHR still has window switches in the wrong place (they belong on the door), still has bizarre cheap hard plastic on doors and armrests, still has 4 speed automatic, wheres the tilt and telescoping steering wheel like your competition has?
6. Impala-still no tilt and telescoping steering wheel, side view mirrors are awful, rear seat room is amazingly poor for such a big car, how about adjustable pedals? I hope you finally put the PRNDL on the console!
7. LaCrosse-still has confusing button array on the dash instead of more ergonomic controls, ugly front end, old powertrains, no tilt and telescoping steering wheel.
8. G6-Still has stupid name, ugly cheap interior. At least the E-brake is on the console where it belongs.
9. 2007 Aveo-where is it!? It was announced a long time ago and its still not here while the Fit and Yaris steal your sales.
10. The Aura concept was brilliant, yet you couldnt resist dumbing down the front end. Whats with those droopy eye fog lamps? Next time-please resist!
11. Still refuse to increase your warranties across the board even though this one step wiuld do more to increase your sales than anything else. Get a clue!

Even with Mr. Lutz this company still seems either to be asleep, apathetic, and not out to be world class. Your designers are for the most part awful, and not nearly as talented as GM's foreign talent in Germany, even China. If you're not going to go all out and try to be better than everyone else than sell the company, or get a CEO that 'gets it'.

You lost a buyer today. Well I don't know who designed the new Chevy Silverado but it must have been some disgruntled Toyota employee. It can't possibly be the same people that redesigned the new Tahoe and Avalanch. Those vehicles are great, beautiful inside and out. I mean I am so disappointed. I can't believe it. Most of the comments over on GM Inside News are negative on it as well. I was planning to replace my 2002 2500 HD with a new 2007 but not now. The new truck looks awful. You guys BLEW IT!!!!

Mr. Lutz: Will the Astra Twin-Top be joining the Saturn line?

GM should fast track this car to the U.S. market ASAP – spring of next year (2007) would be perfect.

It would give Saturn dealers an option for buyers of Sky Roadsters that want a convertible but may need more passenger space. The Twin-Top also has excellent trunk space for a hardtop convertible.

GM should make a 2 door coupe from the Twin-Top with the Panoramic windshield from the 3-Door GTC. This would make the Astra Coupe a “Must Have” car, just like the Sky. The Astra Coupe offers excellent economy with 1.6L gas or 1.9L Turbo-Diesel and performance would be available from the 140 HP 1.8L or 2.0L Turbo from the Sky Redline.

Another “Must Have” variant could be created by combining the longer wheelbase Astra Estate chassis with the styling from the coupe to create a great looking 4 door sedan – or if possible a 4 Door Hardtop.

Of course the 3-Door, 5-Door and Estate Astra models should also be offered in the U.S. market.

With ION production moving to Lordstown, why not make the Astra in Spring Hill?

The Aura lineup should be expanded to the Estate and the 5-door hatch versions, and possibly the Signum.

An Aura Estate would fill a void in the GM lineup and will sell to buyers that need cargo capacity but prefer to drive a car with high MPG. This market is much larger than you think – it is just waiting for the right car to be offered.

Great sales of the Honda Fit should have GM scrambling to get the new Corsa into the Saturn lineup also.
This is another great looking car that with the 1.2L gas or 1.3L Turbo diesel can offer over 50 MPG on the highway.

The Tigra hardtop convertible will find success with high MPG and good cargo space and would be the perfect platform to introduce the Easy-Tronic transmission to the U.S. market.

The Montana small pickup with Flex-fuel 1.8L would give buyers E-85 capability and high MPG.

GM must react to the current market demand for higher MPG vehicles and they have the models needed in the Corsa and Astra. These models are top ten sellers in European market and will find a large market in the U.S. since they offer world class style, performance and economy.

There is also the Combo, Meriva and Zafira for the 5 to 7 multi-purpose market. The Combo gives Saturn a strong contender in the urban delivery market and can greatly increase Saturn business fleet sales. The Combo Tour with the right power-train will define a new market segment, as will the Meriva. It is a good time for the new Zafira to enter the U.S. market with its 7-passenger capacity.

This new Saturn lineup will increase sales substantially with conquest sales of buyers who have not looked at a GM product. Every vehicle mentioned is either a model not offered by GM (or anyone else in some cases), or represent a different style than previous GM models. GM will save millions in development time and clinics to determine future models.

The Sky and Solstice should wake GM up to the fact that it must change the products that it offers if it wants to grow market share.

No excuses now, GM has the product – it just has to offer them in the U.S. market.

Mr. Lutz, watch those interior trim gaps!
P.S. Fake stitching is a no, no, NO!

What about your small cars? I drove the Chevy Malibu Maxx (as a rental), and it drives horribly. Honestly, I like the look outside, and the interior is bland but ok. I normally don't like the look of your cars, but the Maxx is mostly good looking. Except for the back end, it's a little ugly. But the steering is non-responsive to imput, and the V6 feels like it's a 4cyl. I honestly thought it was 4cyl, until I got home and looked it up! I think it was the transmission.

Make your small cars sporty and fun, I'm 25 and that's what I want in a car. And I like small cars, in fact I prefer them. And I prefer hatchbacks. Maybe you don't think there's a market for them, but since what your doing now isn't working, maybe you should listen to the people here.

What's up with the plug in hybrid which GM supposedly has under development? This was reported in the Los Angeles Times, and our local paper, this weekend.

Where do I send my deposit check?

I need to pose this question:

Scenario:
A friend's mom is out looking for a new car. She has 65,000 miles on a 1999, MX6 she bought new.

Why is she getting a new car? She was told by the Mazda dealer that her MX6 needed front end work and struts. $2200! Her car was not involved in an accident - just a repair bill.

Guess what her first choice was for new vehicles was? A Mazda 6! She also looked at a Camry and a Passat (since my friend has a Passat).
My first reaction why in the world would she go back to a Mazda when it was a Mazda that let her down w/ only 65,000 miles on it and a $2200 repair bill?

*****************

Here is my question:

What is it about a Japanese car where even after getting the news of a $2200 repair bill that they'd go back for more?!?! Why isn't this person saying to her daughter (my friend), "I'll never buy another cheap Mazda product again..." Why do these companies get a second chance and GM doesn't?

Perhaps this is why: all the other elements that go in to the product outweigh the $2200 repair bill: The way it drives, how well the interior held up over it 7 years of life, the styling, her seeing all the NEW Mazda 6's running around builds confidence in the product...perhaps it is those cool dual exhaust outlets on the Mazda 6's....

******************

The bigger problem:

Have you ever watched cars drive through a Starbucks in the morning? This is where all the hip and trendy people go (in case your marketing people and focus group people don't know this). I do spot counts on the cars going by: 1-2 our of ten might be a GM product. It is worse on some days. Audi's, BMWs, Beetles, Siennas and Odesseys by the dozens...you get the picture. The worse part is few GM cars I see are older Grand Ams, Impalas and Blazers. I can't recall a new LaCrosse, G6, Yukon, etc. While you product lines have improved, you are not making a dent. Sad and depressing.

*****************

I have been a HUUUGGEEE supporter of GM products me entire life. My father worked there for 38 years. I will own nothing but GM products.
However, GM is done. I watch my neighbors roll their crappy US products out to the curb and in come the Toyotas, Hondas and Hyundais. I can count 10 situations for this in the last month in my middle/upper class neighborhood.

I fault the unions, poor management and undesirable cars that GM has made for too long. 24% marketshare will look very good compared to where it will be at the end of this year.

****************

Yes, it is easy to complain but what do I suggest? Somehow, you need to convience people that your entire package is better than your compeitiors. This can't be done with the new Impala which looks like the conservative Accord. Why is it that your commom cars are ALWAYS last in Car and Driver / Motor Trend reports? 4 speed autos is why.

Build a RWD, DOD V-8, coupe and sedan, offer a 6 speed manual or auto, 7/70 warranty for $19500. Do it before Hyandai does it (whoops too late...their's should be hitting w/ in 1-2 years correct?)....

Remember the last time GM had the number 1 selling car in the US? IT WAS THE REAR DRIVE CUTLASS.

Joe
Milwaukee, WI

Hi Bob! I like the Aura... is very similar with Vectra brazilian...good choice for USA..

Mr Lutz: Buick, Pontiac, GMC and SAAB

These four divisions need some unique models soon, and I mean division only models – no sharing.

Where is the GMC version of the Avalanche, why does the entry level division of GM get every model offered and some of its own? GMC is “professional grade”????

GMC should have a version of the Avalanche in Denali trim with the Pickup front styling in place of the Yukon’s and with GMC exclusive 6.2L AFM VVT with E-85 and 6-speed Automatic.

And a ¾ ton version with Duramax Turbo-diesel and Allison 6-speed would be “professional grade”.

Chevrolet has five models without a direct badge engineered model in another division:
Corvette
Monte Carlo
Malibu MAXX
Camaro
HHR

Granted the Corvette and XLR are on the same platform but these models so different that some owners probably don’t even know this.

The Cadillac and HUMMER lineups are unique to each division with only the DTS sharing architecture with the Lucerne. Here again there is enough differences that most buyers do not know they are the same. Same applies to the H2 and H3; they are nothing like the Tahoe and Colorado.

GMC could bring back the Jimmy name with a variation of the HHR with SUV styling similar to the new Jeep Patriot (this Jeep will be a hit – just like the Caliber). It could be powered by the 2.9L I-4 and 3.7L I-5 from the Canyon set transverse.

The new Canyon would be a unique to GMC mid-size pickup built on a narrow version of the GMT 900 truck frame would be offered in Regular, extended and crew cab models with 2, 4 and AWD. Power provided by 3.7L I-5 and 4.5L I6 with the top of the line Denali powered by a 5.3L AFM V8. A two mode hybrid would also be offered.

On the same platform a new 7 Passenger Envoy model on a 120” WB along with a new GMC Safari Van with the IRS from the AWD Acadia. There is still a very strong market for these vehicles and build a pickup, SUV and Van on the same architecture and in the same plant will maximize return on investment.

An urban dune buggy vehicle similar to the Borrego concept from the Solstice architecture designed more for the beach and good handling than rock climbing. Styling and functionality with good MPG would be priorities.

The Solstice architecture would be used for a GMC performance SUV similar to the BMW X5 but with luxury and good road manners prioritized over all out performance. Power provided by either a 4.5L I-6 or 5.3L V8, both matched to 6-speed transmissions. The Denali would have the 380 HP 6.2L.

For large families a 10 to12 passenger Savana with 6 doors for easier rear seat passenger loading making it a great car pool van with Duramax turbo diesel power and economy.

These six models would be GMC exclusives.

All Sierra models would have passenger fold flat seats. SLE models would have 8-way heated power seats with memory and either a center seat with under seat storage and a fold out console or a fixed console. This uses the same seats for either 5 or 6 passenger seating and gives customers a more functional interior. SLT models would be similar with 12 way seats and Magna-ride would be available.

The new Sierra Denali should be lowered 2 inches front and 3” in back with a heavy duty IRS suspension for real sport truck performance. And paint the GMC letters on all wheels red – these letters do have street credibility.

Buick needs a perception changing vehicle to get buyers into Buick showrooms, and the EFIJY street rod is the perfect vehicle. A vehicle like the EFIJY attract buyers to the dealer showroom since it cannot be appreciated on the internet. Once there buyers will see the spectacular new Enclave and hopefully new Velite Hardtop Convertible.

Put the EFIJY at the next Buick sponsored Golf tournament and watch the reaction – bet you get some deposit checks. Have the broadcasters mention that Buick might build it and give an “800” number to gauge interest.

Buick needs a new Grand National Coupe complete with 320 HP Turbo 3800 with 6-speed automatic on the Solstice platform.

A limited run Gran Sport GSX with retro-modern styling of the 1970 model with 505 HP 7.0L and 6 speed based on the new Camaro would get buyers in and be a quick sell out. Limit the quantity to about 20,000 a year and change color, wheels and trim from year to year to maintain demand. If this model is popular enough you can always offer a Skylark version with a 5.3L V8.

A Buick Skyhawk coupe, Century Sedan and Estate could be created from the G6 except with luxury appointments and interior features like a reclining rear seats with DVD player. Give it some classic Buick styling and a base 3500 V6 with optional 3800 and supercharger 3800.

The 3800 is a Buick engine and should be used on as many models as possible, with direct injection and a 6- speed automatic the 3800 would deliver over 35 MPG in the real world. The ability to deliver over 30 MPG in even a large car in the real world is what makes this engine so desirable. Forget about what the magazine say, and horsepower numbers do not tell the story about this engine, it is all about the torque curve.

This is also what makes a Buick a Buick, not a Chevy. If you want to build brands they have to be different in more than just sheet metal. Loyal buyers know the difference and putting Chevy engines in Buicks only gives them a reason to look at a Ford, Chrysler or Toyota.

You also need to offer fully optioned LaCrosse and Lucerne models with the 3800 and 6-speed automatic as many buyers are happy with the power and expect the 30 MPG.

The 3.6L just does not deliver the MPG.

I would rather see the 5.3L AFM V8 as the optional engine on both the LaCrosse and Lucerne, it gets better MPG than the 3.6L or 4.6L and has more power. If you have to put a Chevy in a Buick use their best one.

The new Electra needs to establish itself as a legitimate luxury sedan with a full list of standard features and a world class interior. The ride should be plush but taut with good steering feedback; it needs to exhibit control over rough sections of road without bottoming.

Finally, offer a good minivan. GM has the architecture with the Enclave, just take the good points of the Enclave and put them into the next Terraza. A minivan offers more versatility and room than a crossover and Chrysler has sold 69,000 Town and Country Vans to 36,000 Pacifica models. There is a market for both and at GM Buick is the luxury division.

Pontiac needs more new product to go with the Solstice and a new Firebird based on it is just the answer. For once make the Camaro and Firebird from different platforms. The Firebird can focus more on handling the brute power, while the Camaro can satisfy the big engine crowd. The Firebird would be very fast, but suspension performance and light weight will be prioritized over straight line acceleration. The Firebird would carry 4 passengers and have the familiar styling cues that make it a Firebird and could be offered in 2 door and 3 door versions and a convertible would obviously be easy enough.

A sedan model would offered to complement it and get Pontiac into the serious performance sedan market. Engine options would go all the way to the 505 HP 7.0L V8 and if the Hot Rod modified Solstice is any indication, this will be one awesome performance sedan.

The new GTO needs to have show stopping styling, the current model has the performance and the great interior – finish the package. A Grand Prix sedan would complement the GTO again with power up to the 505 HP 7.0L.

I am anxious to see what direction GM will take with these models. Pontiac has made some of the best looking coupes and sedans in the past, many times with a new design direction – surprise and excite us.

On a smaller scale, Pontiac could use a high MPG performance car and the Astra VXR model with Pontiac styling would do it. Again make the Pontiac on a different platform than the Cobalt.

The new Vibe would be derived from the Astra Estate.

The new Corsa with the 1.6L Turbo would be a great package.

Pontiac would be like Vauxhall is to Opel except Pontiac will offer only the 2 highest performing models of the lineup.

The next G6 will be large enough to replace both the existing G6 and Grand Prix as there is need for FWD performance coupes and sedans.

SAAB needs product badly and a new 2 seat coupe based on the Solstice with Aero-X styling would be a start.

This would be a SAAB exclusive model.

A 4 passenger hard top convertible platform shared with the Firebird would compliment it.

SAAB will also have an exclusive Sport Combi wagon version of the Solstice platform in RWD and AWD with the top engine the 5.3L AFM V8.

It will also have the only AWD sedan version with 260 HP 2.0L Turbo and 1.9L Turbo Diesel power.

SAAB will be the AWD division of GM focusing on Audi as a main competitor and will have AWD versions of all sedans and wagons. It will also be the Turbo-Diesel division with all sedans and wagons offering Turbo-Diesel power.

The new 9-3 would continue to offer sedan, wagon an convertible models but add AWD capability.

Going up a size the next 9-5 Sedan and Wagon would be closer in size to the Impala and offer exceptional rear seat room and luxury features with 5.3L AFM power and an AWD 3.2L Turbo V6 model.

A new 7 passenger 9-6 from the Enclave and 5 passenger 9-4 from the Captiva would round out the line.

Buick, Pontiac, GMC and SAAB can and must have exclusive models – the sooner the better.

Bob,

Referring to the employee buyout plan, I am glad that 35,000 employees took it at GM, better than your expectations.

While the press is favorable to this, there was a CNN.com article already quoting analysts who say that in this employee transition time, quality could become an issue as new employees are learning new jobs. There is strong momentum on GM's comeback right now. Dont let this quality issue become a big event in the media. I would recommend GM coming out right now with a blanket 6/60 warranty plan for all 2006 and 2007 models(I would even recommend 10 years, but anything would be good now). Stay ahead of the game!

Good luck
Eric

Saturn can now compete. I have seen the line and I am very impressed. Everyone who is looking for a mid-size car needs to think Saturn. Also, the new Saturn SUV will do very well.

Chris from above,

You bring up a good point about GM engines not benefiting from 6-7 speed trannys. That GM engines have broad, flat torque curves. In other words, they are lazy, flat, slow revving engines - perfect for the Buick crowd but not perfect for the kid in high school aspiring to get his first car.

Your reasoning is what got GM in to the trouble they are in today - do what we are doing. Stay the course, that's OK people will buy them the way they are.... Meanwhile, foreign car makers opted for high revving, smooth running (nylon timing belt and gear vs. GM's steal timing chain and gear) multi-valve motors. Yes - I understand, they require more maintenance but who won this battle? Based on how sales are going at Toyota vs. GM - what type of motor should GM be building? The Japanese won!

Sidenote: Amazing! When Altima's first came out, the engine was so smooth and quiet that people were ruining starters because they did know their engines were on! Compare that to my LS1 or my neighbor's 3.1 litre in his Century (based on the 2.8 litre motor used in the 1980's X-car - can you believe that?!?!), which both "tic" and have been told by the dealers that this is "normal". Mine has the common piston slap something to do w/ the piston coating which sounds like rod knock every morning....all w/ only 42,000 miles on my car! Ahhh, but I digress....

Is progress being made? Yes....I test drove a new CTS and the engine and 5 speed auto is magical - especially the 1-2 gear shift! Can I justify its price? No. Do I want a V-8 and a 2 Door? YES, Yes!

As a waning GM supporter, we get to hurry up and wait. Be patient....we hear. I am tired of my old F-Bodies!

What do I suggest: Same as above - RWD, front engined, V-8. Price: $19500. The only option - your choice of a 6 speed manual or automatic. To all you nay-sayers on the RWD issue: 1) BWM has NEVER abandoned their roots of RWD drive and their year to year sales keep increasing! 2) Last time GM had the best selling car in America was guess what? The mid-80's RWD Cutlass!

I am a new designer, so I am very intereasted to GM new car, from above discussion they just note the performance of your car, how about styling? Why GM have no one new car got a high prize from reportor or customer?

To Joe Lauerman:

Timing-belts do not just cause more efforts for maintenance, they are also much more expensive for the customer! For that reason I am glad, the engine (by the way: multi-valve) of my 2001 Alero has a chain. Everytime it makes a difference of hundreds of Euros, at least here in Germany, whether you have to replace a belt or not! As I could watch, already some European manufacturers returned to the chain, because the timing-belt didn't prove as the better solution. If this belt tears apart, your engine will close his eyes forever! The chain of my father's Opel Rekord was still fine after 230.000 miles.

What do we "high revving" engines need for? I don't know. In my opinion that makes car-driving just way of hectic. I can do without 4000 rpm at 80 mph and enjoy my Alero doing just about 3500 rpm at nearly 100 mph.

I'm glad that you're putting so much effort into Saturn. Hopefully the Aura turns out to be popular, and hopefully you won't have to be put on a 6 month waiting list to get one like another popular new Saturn model. Yes people like your cars, but if they're being told they have to wait until December to take delivery on a car that's already released then they might consider going across the street to the Mazda dealer who has cars waiting right there on the lot.

Plug in hybrid????

Joe Lauerman from above,

You completely missed the point. GM engines are not slow revving lethargic things. By having broad powerbands, GM engines deliver more power over a larger RPM range. meaning that unlike the Honda VTEC engines, you don't have to drive it like you hate it in order to experience any meaningful power. And to many gears on any transmission, especially autos, will produce lots of gear hunting, unless you live somewhere that doesn't have much in the way of hills.

Chris,

Yes, I agree you are so correct on the transmission issue for certain power bands in gm engines.

After repeated viewings of the GM Show Screensaver, I have become quite accustomed to these cars. Some look excellent, and the rest look great!

Bob;

I just returned from a business trip out in Washington state. While there, I rented an Impala LT with the 3.9 V6 engine in it. While I agree that this car represents an improvement over the model it replaced, I was left feeling it was still not up to par with the latest Japanese or even Korean offerings. The exterior is much better, as well as the interior. The engine offered good response and seemed willing to be driven. So, why am I still feeling like it was only 90%? Perhaps the plastics still have that cold, hard feel to them. Maybe the thrashing sounds that the 3.9 belts out when pressed. The 4 speed automatic, really out of date when compared to other cars in this segment. I really wanted to like the Impala and was anticipating getting behind the wheel. But, after spending 3 days with it, I just came away saying “decent car,” instead of the “WOW” I was hoping for.
When you sit inside a Camry or Avalon, you really get a sense of quality. Toyota really knows how to do interiors that make you feel you are in a lot more expensive car. The plastics have a soft touch that feels rich. The controls are liquid smooth. Why cant GM do that? Why not get rid of the old tech engines and deliver ultra-smooth multivalve V6 engines? Why not offer a 5 or 6 speed automatics? Certainly, GM has the talent, resources, and sheer know-how, right? I would love to see a true Camry, Accord, Avalon killer come out. Creating cars that people get excited about and desire to own is what’s going to deliver GM from where it is now. Please, give me a family sedan I want to own and show me that GM still wants to kick some butt in the industry.

I took a quick look at a new Impala last night. There were two things I found disappointing. First was lack of rear seat leg room. I did not get in, just looking at it made me cringe. Second, what happened to the distinctively Chevy rear tail lights from the last model? Why go with the generic sedan tail lights? I had wondered why I hadn’t noticed the new Impala on the road. These tail lights are like camouflage. Almost every manufacturer has a sedan with the same style tail light as on the new Impala. Bob, I can’t believe this design blunder got past you.

i wonder when general motors will begin to actually listen to it's long time customers. i'm watching a company i consider as a friend go in the tank, and by it's own doing.

i am happy to see the company finally make a fight against the wave of imports, but unless g.m. honestly listens to it's customers, or "friends:. the company will be smaller still. the tendency to overcomplicate and use computers for every little thing gives an opportunity for expensive failures, and dependability issues. please, stay with styling, and yes, creature comforts, but concentrate on the issues we, the people who pay (or won't) for the product you offer, want.

best wishes for the future, and, to a degree, you are on a better, but still not right in my opinion, track

Hi Bob:

I am 45 and my wife and I have 4 kids. We are looking for a new vehicle and over the last few weeks have started the search.

I am proud to say that I once worked for Bethlehem Steel in Lackawanna, NY in the Coke Ovens. I have strained to always by US vehicles from US companies and have held true to that to this day. I recall to this day seeing the last Ore Ship come into "big steel" on the shore of Lake Erie at 3 am on a warm July morning and shed a tear as the crew waved goodbye as she slipped out the next day.

I am shedding tears again. My 13 year old son saw me cry for the first time last night as we compared Toyota and Honda to GM products

Their is no real comparison. I almost bought a Honda last night and that's when I started to cry in the dealership and could not collect myself until we got home.

The people at Honda and other customers looked at me like I was nuts. They don't understand
At the Chevy dealer, I could have fired a cannon and no one would have heard it go off. At the Buick dealer, the sales people were running out the door 30 minutes early and didn't have time for me.

When people like me start to bolt away from US manufacturers, you're done

I can't even find a good excuse to buy a GM...0 % financing does not make up for failed quality and pricing that is too high

I could not sleep last nite. I saw the faces of the guys who were walking dead men in the Coke ovens who after 30 years of chemical baths everyday were essentially dead men walking

It's haunting...yet right now, I am going our Saturday and buying the Honda...why shouldn't I....I'll take any answer from anyone out there...give me a REASON, not an EXCUSE.

I think, all the people before, who permanently complain about GM-vehicles, concerning the styling, quality and whatever, missed to read the following study, which was released just six months ago: http://www.caranddriver.com/dailyautoinsider/10565/gm-leads-in-delight.html

Love to read the blog, and sometimes I find no other place to complain than this place, but oh well. Your (GMs) latest adds about the power of corn is just plain wrong and if this isn't printed in the blog I will know the reason.
Corn is NOT the best product tio prodcue ethanol and you (GM) know it! Switch grass is the ideal crop for producing ethanol. It doesn't require extensive petroleum based fertilizers and cooking it up results in a higher quality of material resulting in my BTUs per dollar. Why should you (GM) be backing corn, when the subsidies for corn growers make the price of ethanol almost equal to or even greater than that of a gallon of gasoline? WHY can't GM go out on the limb, get off this hydrogen fairy tale, off the corn (government subsidized to boot) fairy tale and create, embrace and go with a new technology (currently used in Brazil)that uses waste or reusable cellulose other than CORN! You (GM could once again show the world the kind of company you SHOULD be. PLEASE don't stop thinking, but get some new brains in the boardroom.

I just saw the Saturn ad in Motor Trend. The droopy eye fog lamps on the Aura made me cringe.
What is with you people? Can't you see how it ruins the front end of this otherwise good looking car?

Dan;

There is absolutely no excuse for what happened to you at the Chevy and Buick stores. Obviously, those dealers didnt care about your money walking away. Sad really, considering the sliding market share that any domestic dealer should be feeling. I would feel great about purchasing that Honda from a dealer who does want your business. I'm willing to also bet that you will be very happy with that car. As many people I have talked to about new car purchases, I cant remember one who was an unhappy Honda owner. They build good stuff, here in America. They are always improving what they deliver. What is even more discouraging is when GM or Ford come up with a decent new offering, the Asians counter with one that again is 2 steps ahead.
When it comes down to it, it is your choice as the customer to pick what you want. As you stated, at this point, there is no comparison. The Honda is clearly further ahead in terms of quality, resale, and styling. So, I wouldnt shed anymore tears. GM and Ford are where they are because they forgot to talk to customers a long time ago. Now, its a scramble. Go buy that Honda and feel good about it.

To Bob; You and GM management should shed the tears.

Brian

Dan, while I do understand your thoughts of buying a Honda, I am actually the opposite. I returned to GM after a long stint with japanese cars. Why? they honestly aren't the value that they seem to be. Honda and Toyota are the worst at charging premium prices just because they are Honda and Toyota. You don't actually get more features, in fact in many cases you get fewer options and features for the money. The interiors are only marginally nicer in my estimtion, and the reliability advantage that they once had over GM has largely disappeared. Right now it's down to niggly little bits like fit and finish, and subjective nit picking over interior materials and switch gear that "Feel right"

Sad as it seems, the main bread and butter cars at GM have actually become just as much appliances as Camrys and Accords. There is no character with these cars anymore, they've all become so bland that if anything even remotely less bland, like the Mazda6 shows up many people jump all over it, regardless of if it's actually more reliable or not.

Thanks for the responses.

Honda it is.

What is happening to GM is the same thing that happened to Bethlehem.

I truly think Ford might be able to pull themselves out of the tailspin, yet GM looks like toast.

I will say the the Chevy dealer salesperson really tried.

The Buick people were screaming down the road in their Demo GTO's and couldn't have given a flip.

Dan - what vehicles at GM, Honda and Toyota are you comparing?

Just curious.

thanks,
CG

Bob,
Kirk Kerkorian suggested a merge with Nissan/Renault's! HE IS AN IDIOT!! DONT LET THAT HAPPEN!!!

Hi Chris & BRE from above,

No, I understood your points. Based on GM's current crop of OHV, V-6 motors, 5, 6 & 7 speeds trannys are not needed since the torque band in say a 3800 engine starts at 2200 rpm vs. a DOHC engine that needs to rev to 3500 before you notice anything - so no need for more gears. 4 is enough. In addition, the competitor's 5-7 speeds are causing lots of complaints as they hunt and peck for the right gear which annoys the driver.

Perhaps we are both correct and wrong....marry a high torque OHV engine to a 6 speed tranny and there would be enough torque to pull up a hill in 5th rather than downshifting to 3 or 4th w/ the 3800 V-6 - a great combo for an old engine. Compare that to a high revving DOHC engine and I believe you are correct, the torque couldn't pull it up the hill and the engine will need to increase RPMs by downshifting.

However, putting aside the complaints of gear hunting - I believe you missed my point - who won? Who's thinking was correct - your thinking (which is the path GM took) about never being caught in trap of high revving engines) or the decision Toyota made to embrace OHC engines? Which engines have the buying public embraced? Why type of motor is in a Camry? Does it have a 4 speed auto? That is not a smart business decision to stick w/ a 4 speed auto when your competition is at minimum of 5 and doesn't Nissan now have a 7 speed? How did GM fall asleep at the wheel and think they can compete globally offering 4 speeds and engines that date back to the 60's (3.8 litre Buick odd-firing v-6 now known today as the 3800 v-6).

Read Brian's post from June 29th. He has the right picture.

Yes, I know they are good engines an have low defect rates. However, people are not dumb and when given an option, they have thumbed their noses.

**********SIDE NOTE

You know, it is funny. GM in the early 60's produced OHC, 4 cylinders and straight 6 motors w/ 4 bbl carbs in their Skylarks and their Lemans, etc. Guess what - no one bought them. Everyone wanted V-8s!. Then came the gas crunch in 1973 and Japan threw open their doors and said "look - we have all these small, efficient OHC powered cars ready for your market USA!" and it has been all down hill for GM since then...

GM, in their business plan 25 years ago said, "let's just massage our current offering of engines since it is cheaper and easier, rather than invest in new engines. Comments like "not being caught in the trap......" condones this incorrect business plan. However, I totally agree w/ the CVT linked to a LS1 / V-8. That would be a great combo! GM's only strong hand right now are their V-8 motors but they are not in any cars for the common Joe.

And again, What do I suggest: Same as above - RWD, front engined, V-8. Price: $19500. The only option - your choice of a 6 speed manual or automatic. Last time GM had the best selling car in America was guess what? The mid-80's RWD Cutlass

Dan,

An additional thought. One of the reasons the US autos, and US manufacturing in general, are struggling is due to Japans trade policies and its currency control. Talk to people who have tried to export products to or open facilities in Japan. It’s a one way street. Japans products are allowed to freely compete here in the US. However, American products are not allowed the same consideration in Japan. As for currency, Japans government controls the value of the yen. This has given their companies inflated profits over the past several years. In turn these profits fund extensive product improvements that keep them ahead of everyone else.

This is not to say that American companies, over the years, haven’t made some crappy products. They have. But, is the difference between Japanese and American products so different that it is worth supporting Japans trade and currency policies? Policies that are a determent to all countries other than Japan. Is is worth it?

Good Luck with your Honda,

Dear Bob
While I am excited about the looks of the new saturns I will reserve judgement until they win some comparson tests. I have seen comparson test of some of your new vehicles(Buick Lucerne,Cadillac XLR V) that you and rest of GM are so excited about but they fail to impress the rest OF the automotive world. In the case of the two vehicles above they finished last. You will probley white it off as bias against GM. I disagree every body do'nt hate GM. I think it is the age old problem that almost as good is good enough,when your attitude should be never rest even when the automotive world and the buying public proclaim you to be the best. One final question on the promise of building exciting and exciting looking vehicles, what happened to the new silverado?

Dan,

Good Luck on your Honda, just out of curiousity what models did you compare to and then purchase ?

Did you see the huge blast of publicity about the Smart car in the papers yesterday? Roger Penske?

And what about today's story about Kirk Krekorian, Renault and Nissan?

Did you all see Renault dominate the Grand Prix Sunday? They have some technical chops now for sure.

Dan Cadigan:

I would like to talk to you about your decision to buy a Honda. Not that I think you are wrong about your impressions of the service you got from the dealer, but I would like to discuss with you the differences in the products you are looking at. Most people don't realize that the vast majority of dealerships are not part of General Motors. Many dealers do a great job, but there are those that don't really seem to care about servicing customers with great products. If you'll postpone your purchase for just a day or so let's look at the products side by side and then you can decide what is best overall. We are definitely not Dead Men Walking at GM and we care about what you are experiencing and perceiving with our products. Let me show you how alive we are and then you can purchase/drive what you want. I'm not sure of the best way for us to connect, but if you'll reply to this then I'll work through the people who run FastLane and we will connect. Thanks for your consideration. Let's find a way to support American workers and American companies. If we are the better value then help me understand how we could be.

Dan Cadigan:

I saw a picture of the shipping channel where you saw the Edmund Foy bring in the last shipment of ore to the blast furnaces. I was looking for your contact information, but it wasn't at that site. I really would like to speak with you about your current impressions and show you some reasons why buying a GM product is a great way to go. Don't buy that Honda just yet - let's look at some comparisons together first.

To Dan Cadigan above:

I honestly think that you owe it to yourself (not to GM) to test drive a (for example) Pontiac G6 before you make any purchase. My father always purchased GM vehicles while I was growing up. However, in the early 90's he had had enough of GM's issues and went with Hondas and Toyotas.
Recently, he purchase a G6 and is extremely happy with his purchase. He chose this car even after having tested the usual Honda/Toyota/Nissans. I have taken his new G6 for several test drives while visiting my parents and I, too, am very impressed with the fit and finish, quiet ride and personally, I like the interior. Do yourself a favour and test drive one.

Chris;

You make an excellent point regarding the decline in personality of the cars offered today. I can remember when names like Impala, Malibu, Caprice really meant something. You knew what they were. Now days? Not so much. I was very critical in the past of Toyotas having about as much personality as a Lawn Boy mower. Mazda was and has been the exception to this rule. The Mazda6, while not the most reliable model according to Consumer Reports, has the most personality in the cars that it compares to. Ford has based several key models on this platform including the new Ford Fusion, Mercury Milan, Mazda CX-7, Lincoln Zephyr, and soon to be released Ford Edge. And your right in the fact that much of the quality issue has been narrowed. But, it is those small things that do add up and make a difference in my humble opinion. Plastics, seat materials, switches, etc. might be small detail stuff, but do matter when your trying to sell against your competition. I want GM to succeed and feel they can, if they deliver exciting cars that people want to buy. Selling cars to consumers that stay happy and tell their friends are what's going to turn things around. I hope it happens soon.

Brian

GM’s problem is that they stopped being a car company circa 1970. It has become a cliché but it is true – it is a beancounter driven company.

A long term fan of European cars, I took a chance on a 2003 SAAB 9-3 (a/k/a Malibu / G6). It was a car that “almost” had it right. But the beancounter influence, or should I say dominance, shown through. Cheapish interior; quickly developed squeaks and rattles; crappy sounding stereo; electrical issues – not only were obvious “bugs” not worked out pre-production, but the deficiencies in the vehicle showed tremendous flaws in GM’s product development culture – there were things that were “approved for production” that only left one saying “what were they thinking? Who approved it this way?”

It was like GM couldn’t bring itself to produce a product that would “surprise and delight” … that it would go against the corporate culture to NOT cut corners and take a potentially world-class product and “budget” it down to third-rate.

GM seems to have a death wish, and puts into practice by continually disappointing, if not infuriating, customers.

You can only “test” so much on a test drive, and with GM there’s too much risk of discovering where they’ve “cut corners” after you’ve signed on the bottom line. It’ll be a long, long time before I’d ever consider a GM product again (and likely never). The 9-3 – a current GM design – demonstrated that GM can’t be trusted to produce a world-class product, or even a competitive one.

Mr. Cadigan,

Before investing in a Japanese product, I suggest you visit a few other Chevy, GM, Chrysler or Ford dealerships. Most dealerships and their sales people believe in the products they sell, and want you to be a satisfied customer.

When faced objectively, both domestic and japanese manufacturers offer some decent, and some marginal products. For example, should you revisit a Honda dealer, while you're waiting for the the proposed monthly payment to be converted from yen to dollars, check out the panel gaps on the Element. And should you choose to pursue a Toyota, make small talk with the sales representative and ask them why the Prius is being recalled . . . again. They might even be able to speak to the engine problems in the pre-2004 Sienna, and why they have an extended warranty.

Do the japanese make good cars; sure they do. But GM, Ford and Chrsler make some great cars too, such as the Pontiac G6, Chevy Tahoe, the Ford Fusion, Ford Freestyle, and the Chrysler minivans. And there are others.

If my logic and reasoning are not sufficient to disuade you from purchasing a Honda or Toyota, think about the employees and their families relying on employment by the domestic US auto industry. Ford, Chrysler and GM, in aggregate, have a combined US workforce that is three times greater than that of all foreign brands combined.

You may want to give the domestic brands another look . . Good luck with your decision.

Jan,

From what I hear, Brazil's ethanol is sugar-cane based. They have alot of it, and they have the climate to grow it. Now I will be the first to admit I dont know everything about the science of E85, but it seems to me this country has alot of the natural resources (corm) than switchgrass. GM cant singlehandedly convert the nations agriculture base; it has to do with whats practical. And I think if E85 becomes big, based on corn, farmers should have enough demand for product that govt subsidies may actually not be needed.

Merge with Nissan/Renault.

Rebadge the Nissans as Buicks, Infinitis as Cadillacs, the Nissan trucks as GMCs, and the entire Renault portfolio as Saturns.

Rework the brand lineup to be more focused- Saturn and Chevy as inexpensive entry level brands, Pontiac as youth-oriented "perfromance" brand, Buick and Cadillac as expensive luxury brands- and GMC as the truck brand.

To quote a recent (March '06) typepad blog:

"Years ago, General Motors had a brilliant strategy. Chevrolet was the entry-level car. Pontiac was the youth-oriented car. Oldsmobile was the high-technology car. (No really, the now defunct brand was cutting edge at one time. In fact, it was the first high-volume front-wheel-drive car.) Buick was the conservative car. (Bankers drove Buicks.) And Cadillac was the high-end, expensive car."

The above was brilliant strategy and worked well for GM for many, many decades. In fact, it's working brilliantly for Toyota: Scion as inexpensive entry/commuter brand, Toyota as popular-price or mid-level brand, Lexus as expensive luxury brand.

Merging with Nissan/Renault could bring in some much-needed small-car smarts for future designs, not to mention a number of existing fuel-efficient models.

(And one of them might be able to design for me a reasonably priced car-based, front-wheel-drive minivan that converts to a pickup. Still waiting for that.)

I truely believe GM is trying to get solid info on what it's customers, and potential customers want. This blog, if used properly by GM is a good source of gaining such info, as well as informing us of many of their future plans. Which is actually quite a bit better than Toyota does. Ever try to contact toyota to make a product suggestion? You can't. Toyota doesn't take product suggestions. They'd rather just tell you what you're going to like. Obviously that didn't work with a few of their vehicles as the Celica and MR2 spyder weren't exactly outselling the Aztek and suffered the same fate of being discontinued.

GM needs a serious reorganization, with leadership that "Gets it". By that I mean, people in key positions who not only know how to run a car company, but who also love cars and trucks. Right now, in the wake of the disaster called brand management, there seem to be far to few who have any sort of passion for automobiles at GM. Mr Lutz does, I believe Mr Wagoner does as well. Still, they are only two out of how many? With certain vehicles GM is showing promise. Cadillac's entire range, except for the DTS (which is still mysteriously FWD) looks good. The Corvette is of course, first rate in both normal and Z06 versions. The Solstice and Sky, aside from them having no usable trunk space are a significant step in the right direction. For all that though, we still have the Cobalts and the ION's with their hard plastic interiors. Would it really be so much to put some good quality cloth or vynil trim in these cars? I'm critical of the ION because I hapen to own one. I like the way the car drives. After almost two years of nearly constant use there has yet to be a squeek or a rattle. It handles well, considering that the ION sedan isn't exactly a sports car, and the 5 speed manual still feels good, with no sideways play in the short throw shifter. In fact the only major complain I have with this car is the hard plasic trim in the interior. It all seems to fit okay, but it does not do this car any justice. It takes an otherwise good little car, easily on par with the current Corolla and the previous Civic and makes it seem cheap. It's things like this that make GM seem inferior to the other vehicles on the market.

I am still not sure what the Aura presents that would make me switch from an Accord. That's my overall sentiment for most of GMs fleet. As far as literature reads, word of mouth and experience goes, Honda suits me fine and I am not impressed enough or sold on GM or any of the big 3.

Mr Lutz

Since you are concerned with GM's overall well being, please consider the following.
It is a letter mailed to the Chicago Tribune, Pittsburgh Post Gazette and any other media source who finds the material news worthy.

We have all heard the cry at one time or another "Buy American". Take pride and support our American Workers. This is exactly what my wife and I set out to do when we learned General Motors was in trouble and needed a helping hand.

But for us it was a lesson learned in frustration and a disillusionment of the American Dream as related to General Motors and the Pontiac Division.

My story begins as follows:

My wife and I ventured off to a local Dealership in the Pittsburgh area ( Northstar GM) with intent of purchasing a New Pontiac Solstice. The car looked appealing and the price was affordable. Car Publications and Internet reviews were admirable for this up and coming sports car.

Like most buyers we aside some money and secured a down payment with the Dealer. Naturally, we asked how long it would take to build the car and when to expect delivery. We were told the first week in June 2006. And were notified by the Dealership in that first week of June our car had been completed and should be on it's way.

I consider myself to be a very patient person. And when the first week rolled by I thought no need to get alarmed the car will be here the next week. Then the second week came and went and the Solstice was nowhere to be found. I contacted the Sales person and he indicated he didn't know why the vehicle was being delayed. He also indicated he would contact Detroit to inquire as to the delay.

When the Third week of June came I contacted the Dealership. Once again, we were given no date for delivery. The sales person was accommodating but indicated the dealerships were at the mercy of Detroit.

As the fourth week had come I decided to place a call to Detroit and speak to Customer Service Represenative. I explained the problem and was transferred to the Sales and Marketing Division. My order was verified but the individual was unable to indicate when my car would arrive.

I sat back and reflected with my wife How strange this was?? Most large companies are able to track product throughout the production process and procurement. I surmised GM was no different.

As the fourth week came to a close I did receive a call from a local Regional Sales Rep. He also indicated his regret but could give me no date for Solstice arrival.

As July started were exhausted and troubled by the holdup. We decided to cancel the sale and move on.

I take no pride in writing this letter, in fact it saddens me. My wife and I are both baby boomers and have prospered with good work ethics. Sometimes we are loyal to a fault.

The lack of attentiveness on General Motors Pontiac Division is troubling. I learned a long time ago that Customer Service is a tough business. But this transaction was littered with answers such as " I don't know" by the Dealer and Pontiac Division Representatives.

I can only hope that the General Motors executives are aware of this problem. It speaks volumes of the company. In today's rapid changing climate image is everything. If the CEO G. Richard Wagoner, Jr. is interested and committed to corporate responsibility, my suggestion is to look at the present management team. The breakdown is obvious but not something that can't be fixed by GM if they commit themselves to this endeavor.

Sincerely,

Brian J. Shanley

Pittsburgh, PA

Mr. Lutz: This is off topic, but I do not see where GM will benefit from an “alliance” with Nissan/Renault.

I understand Mr. Kerkorian wanting to realize a profit from his investment but a little patience will be rewarded.

While a joint venture similar to the 6-speed transmission with Ford or the Hybrid with BMW and Daimler-Chrysler would make sense, GM has enough to do consolidating architectures, engines and brands now.
Trying to balance 2 other companies’ problems with GM’s current consolidation would be too much.

Mr. Wagoner has done an excellent job balancing major cost cutting measures with job cuts and plant closings while maintaining a good relationship with employees.

You have done a masterful job bringing out exciting new models as fast as can be expected. I think the current GM management is right on course and just needs another year to prove it. The new Camaro, Enclave and Saturn lineups will be successful and are just a few of the great models to be introduced over the next 3 years. And all of the latest models from GM have had excellent results.

The only product missing from the U.S. market is a high MPG compact and GM has it in the new Corsa and could have a 40 MPG Cobalt if the 1.8L 140 HP Eco-tec was used. GM also has world class turbo-diesel engines that can be offered. GM does need to bring these products to the U.S. ASAP and the good news is GM has them it just needs to use them.

GM is doing well in Brazil, Russia, India and is the best selling brand in China and sells well in Korea.

GM sales were up over 9% last year in Europe while both Nissan and Renault sales dropped.

There has been sales drop in the U.S. but it is not much different than the one Daimler-Chrysler experienced when they lowered incentives and went to a value pricing strategy.

Warren Buffet recently purchased a Cadillac DTS, perhaps GM could ask him for some advice. Maybe Mr. Buffet would be interested in an investment that will deliver a 100% return in the next 5 years. Yes, I believe GM stock could be in the $50-60 range by 2011. As a very small stock holder of GM I would like you to know that I believe in the current GM management.

Mr. Lutz: Chevrolet is now the Global brand for GM and needs to consolidate names, architectures and engines.

This should start by first going to the Ecotec line of engines across the Chevrolet line. These engines share parts and assembly plants range from .8L to 2.4L and provide an excellent balance of power and economy.

The existing DAT engines could be replaced by equivalent size Ecotec engines and the DAT engineers could work with Ecotec engineers to consolidate research and production of future engines. This would maximize efficiency by making engines most commonly used in each region locally, saving logistic costs.

An example would be using the 1.6L Ecotec in the Aveo to boost the MPG rating close to 40 MPG. The new 140 HP VVT 1.8L can deliver nearly the same with a substantial performance improvement. The new Aveo has good styling and attractive pricing but falls short on MPG. This car can be a big hit for GM in the U.S. with the right power/MPG combination.

GM should consider bringing the current Corsa line to the U.S. in order to give Chevy a fresh line of high MPG with proven performance. The current Corsa 3-door and 5-door are made in Mexico and/or South America so there should not be a Euro to Dollar exchange problem. Granted the current design is a little old but it is proven and would be fresh to the U.S. market. It could be offered at very attractive prices and deliver 50 MPG with 1.2L or 1.4L engines. The Easytronic models would be unique to this segment and attract many buyers who want maximum MPG but don’t like a manual transmission.

Of course the new 2007 Corsa would be a better choice since it is larger and has better styling and the 3-door and 5-door models would eliminate the need for DAT to produce a new 5 door replacement of the current Aveo. It would also eliminate the need for Opel to produce a 4 door Corsa.

A new wagon model to replace the Sail sold in China would be derived on the chassis best suited or the Meriva could be offered as an alternative to a new wagon.

The new Corsa or Aveo could be used for the next version of the Holden Cruze, the AWD model with 140HP 1.8L ecotec would find many buyers in the U.S. and Europe. A new Vivano/Rezzo would be developed from the same platform.

Ultimately all new Aveo, Corsa, Meriva, Cruze, Rezzo, Combo, Sail and Montana trucks would use a common architecture with shared engines and transmissions.

Chevy should use the Optra name for wagon models and Lacetti for 5 doors using the Astra/Cobalt architecture. Future HHR and Zafira models would share this platform along with powertrains.

Chevy should add a soft top cabrio model the Cobalt using the Astra Twin-top chassis and a high MPG Cobalt LS model is needed and the 1.8L engine with Easytronic would deliver 40 MPG.

The Captiva could be used as the new Equinox except offer the 3500 V6 and 3900 AFM with 6-speed along with a BAS hybrid. The Turbo Diesel should also be offered in the U.S.

Malibu, Epica and Tosca models need to use the same architecture with a coupe version (Chevelle?) for the Malibu as a replacement for when the Monte Carlo goes RWD. Engine choices need to be revised with the 2.4L being used as the base with 3500 and 3900 V6 options.

The Tosca’s current 2.0 and 2.5L I-6 engines are interesting but do not deliver the power/MPG required. Either a larger 2.8-3.0L I-6 should be developed or the 3.7L I-5 from the Colorado could be used. The easiest solution would be the 3500 or the 210 HP 2.8L OHC V6 from the 9-3 without a Turbo or a 240 HP 3.2L version. Why not use the Malibu name worldwide?

Chevy needs a viable minivan model and one should be created from the new Enclave ASAP. GM loses thousands of sales a year by not having a good minivan. No excuses with the Enclave architecture available.

On the international truck market Chevy needs to update the Colorado/Rodeo interior immediately. And why is the 5L40 5-speed automatic not offered on this truck along with a 3900 V6 or the 3.6L offered in the Holden Rodeo? A Turbo-diesel version for the U.S. market is needed and would be a segment exclusive.

The rest of the Chevy lineup is mainly for the U.S. market except for some Holden models but there is still a need for an Impala size FWD sedan and could be offered under the Caprice name when it is redesigned.

I am anxiously awaiting the RWD Camaro, Monte Carlo, Impala and new Silverado. Other RWD models Chevy should add: Bel Air coupe sedan and convertible along with a Nomad and El Camino all derived from the next Trailblazer chassis. The car models would offer the IRS from the Enclave with trucks and high performance cars using a solid rear axle. The Trailblazer could use the new T900 chassis narrowed and lightened as needed.

Hopefully GM will make the entire Chevy lineup as good as the Corvette, Impala and Tahoe and how about those great June sales numbers for the Cobalt, HHR and Impala.

Listen sincere gm fans and especially Mr.Lutz. I will refrain from using profanity as I want this letter to be posted.

General motors' products will not sell well. Seeing if they do, it will be to a completely different crowd. It is the second worst managed company (rightt behind ford of course) in the auto industry. Vans aren't selling well cause people want affordability and good stuff, like stow and go seats, not blunt nose suv wannabes. The large sedans arent selling as well either cause the traditional gm buyer is going to chrysler for a 300c or charger. People who want big cars want american. If somebody wanted a front wheel drive 4 cylinder car they would go for a camry or accord, not an Impala. So then not only do you not get your new "expected" sales, you also loose your loyal clientele on which your company is based upon. Even your new suvs. Do you think they will sell as well as the old ones?Your new "midsize" pickups are selling not as well as the s10 cause americans acutally want v6 and even v8 power. not a weak i5. The new aura is a great car, there is no denying that, but does anyone care? You make a great little solstice and ruin it by making a exact copy of it with Saturn. Some people will simply not buy the saturn and get the Pontiac only ebcause the Saturn is A saturn. Snobs will not buy your product ebcause it is a gm. WHo is gonna buy the Aura? When the next employee pricing extravaganze begins, and prices are so low that every car sold means a loss. And it is another decade of struggle and possible bankruptcy for gm. What gm and ford fail to realize, is that these cars will not sell. Even the half american brand crysler is making mroe american cars. Its a real shame, a real shame.....

Bob-

Can't wait for the 3.9AFM Impala. I've had a 2000, 2002 and 2005 Impala LS, (not to mention 3 Luminas prior to that), and looking at buying a 2007 LTZ.

Rented a 2006 Impala fo a day. Although the car is much improved over the 2000-2005 models, I think that GM let me down with the exterior mirrors on the car. Bob, they seem to be 1/2 the size of the 2000-2005's, and are a huge dissapointment. They are probably that size for styling reasons, but, as a loyal Chevy owner, they are terrible.

Can you do something about that before the current model goes out of production?