It's Called Baloney

The Associated Press announced today TOYOTA RECALLS 533 THOUSAND Tundras and Suvs for steering problems. 2005 Toyota recalls 2.2 million vehicles. 2006 Toyota recalls 766 thousand vehicles. Toyotas envolved in class action lawsuit concerning engine sluge problems. With numbers like this why would anyone buy a Toyota when will peple wake up.

All this bias exists because people can't get over HOW LONG
A TIME GM MADE AUTOMOTIVE GARBAGE - 20 years, before the 2006s hit the road and started to slowly change opinions.
Remember, people were ready to flock to a 'reborn' Saturn in 2003, but the ION and L-series of that year were so foolish in execution that it really damaged opinions beyond repair. This follows the Aztec debacle, and runs simultaneously with the starvation of Buick, and the elimination of Olsdmobile due to rampant overpricing, and the desire to promote Hummer instead. Many people felt SAAB should have been sold, and are still enraged by Hummer gas mileage.

So, you have to realize that no good deed will go unpunished for the next ten years! The wise will always speak up when you are libeled
and slandered, BUT IT IS YOUR RESPONSIBILITY to jump way ahead of the competition, and to take a stance that GM will do it's penance 'till the '14 model year with Toyota/Audi trumping quality at 2002 Hyundai pricing, all wrapped up in awesome GM future-heritage styling.
The Lambda cars are a beginning, but they should have been here since '03.
ROCKET THIS COMPANY TEN YEARS INTO THE FUTURE IN EMPIRICAL FUNDAMENTAL EXCELLENCE, IN ARCHITECTURES, POWERTRAINS, RELIABILITY,
SPACE EFFICIENCY, SAFETY, STYLE, and BRAND-SPECIFIC CHASSIS PERFECTION. And scale economies, not COST-CUTTING.

GET IT DONE!!!

Warren Brown hit the nail on the head.

I am reminded of a commercial I saw recently about the new Chevrolet Silverado full sized truck. It mentioned that it gets better mileage than any other truck in its market segment with more than 300 horsepower.
People aren't going to stop needing and wanting full sized trucks anytime soon. What they need is full sized trucks that get good mileage, and it appears that GM is meeting the demand.
Congratulations on the Truck of the Year Award from the import biased Motor Trend Magazine. That is really doing something when even they can no longer ignore the GM "revolution."
I noticed that the Mary in the piece above complained about not being able to give feedback to GM directly. I wish someone would tell that person about this blog so I could tell about the terrible experience I had with a sludged up Toyota truck engine. Biggest piece of junk (self edit) that I have ever owned.
Interestingly enough, Warren Brown, who drives Chevrolets exclusively, picked the Tacoma over the Colorado and Ranger:
"Warren Brown: Tacoma beats Colorado and Ranger in the small-truck segment. And I say that as a person who owns a small Chevrolet truck. Tacoma wins in this segment--very tight, totally tough, reliable as heck with an interior that's inviting. An exceptionally well-crafted small truck. Tacoma."

I feel this is as good an opportunity as any to stress YET AGAIN the need in America for a good mini truck, like the Holden Ute.

I'm still not sure why Holden cars aren't imported to America as Holdens, but are rebadged with a domestic nameplate. This didn't work in a big way with the GTO. A debacle that Mustang and sports import fans are still laughing about. And GM muscle car loyalists are still rolling their eyes over. Why not import Holdens to the US and call them Holdens? Seems to work in Australia. Why do they get the good models? Do you just like them better? Must be the cool accent.
If you guys had called the GTO anything but that, I think it would have been a lot better received. You should have called it a Tempest and worked your way up to GTO.
Again, feel free to pay me for all the great ideas I share. Better yet, I'd rather have a Holden Ute/Chevrolet El Camino instead. Red SS, please, with a black interior.

Toyota sells big pickups and the Prius. And the Yaris for that matter.

GM sells big pickups and... the Aveo, a subcompact that doesn't get over 40 mpg.

That's why people got so excited about the Volt; it was finally something that GM fans could point to as their Prius killer.

The Toyota Prius has been shown to be more of a burden upon the environment than a Hummer.

I think it is Toyota that deserves to go 'belly up' for putting the Prius on the Road!!

Dear Mr. Lutz,

The media/public have been extremely critical of GM in recent years and the only rationale I can come with is that some of GM products in years past were not class leading (being kind here) and over the same timeframe the Japanese manufacturers continued to get better and better and better. This has evolved into a complete public opinion double standard and the post above illustrates this perfectly. As I have mentioned in prior posts, the only way to change public perception is to build great cars at fair prices and back them up with great warrantees. GM is doing this and it is only a matter of time before opinions change. It may take time, but they will change.

What I think would do GM a world of good would be to have a real live Volt, a production vehicle, that Joe down the street can go into any Chevy dealership and actually purchase, with tasteful and restrained badges indicating what the car actually is. Also, IMHO, GM has got to do an even better job of getting the word out. How about huge billboards, in high traffic areas, advertising that GM took BOTH the 2007 Truck of the Year and 2007 Car of the Year awards, with the GM logo and the golden calipers of the award prominently displayed ? I know GM has a huge advertising division that can come up with better ideas than me, but people who don’t read “car mags” and the like simply would not know about these awards.

Thanks for your time,

Chris Hayne (Toronto)

Mr. Lutz: Silver Spring, Md. will be "amazed" to discover the fact that the Impala with the "mid-20th century push-rod V6" outperforms the Prius in many real world driving conditions since it can carry more passengers and cargo at a higher MPG per passenger.

Obviously they have never seen this blog that not only "invite public comments" but has posted and responded to many that were less than friendly.

Keep up the good work and get the Volt, G8 and Corsa to market ASAP.

It is aggravating to read and hear some of the foolish comments from environmentalists and the supposedly "educated" in the country. Toyota is pushing to expand the market share of its new, heavy, and powerful (and delayed) Tundra, in spite it being a "green" company. Let's not forget the Toyota Motor Corporation's other green vehicles: 4Runner, FJ Cruiser, Land Cruiser, Sequoia, GX470, and LX470.

In Toyota's defense, the company has not made the main focus of its production on full-size trucks the way GM has in the past. General Motors may have brought out the Aura and the new Malibu, but the heart of its efforts have been behind vehicles like the Tahoe, Yukon, and Silverado, whereas Toyota's have been with sedans.

GM has done a commendable job with the Volt and the Sequel. Yet, even I am skeptical of GM's commitment to plug-in HEVs and hydrogen power. GM has gotten our hopes up in the past, only to let us down. While GM promised to push the electric car as the future for the 1990s, it instead flooded the market (with the rest of Detroit) with gas-guzzlers, while letting the quality of its flagship sedans fall further behind the Japanese.

Despite that, I still don't approve of the arguments environmental activists have put forth on the Web, television, and print media. Ignoring Toyota's own plans for expansion in the large truck market segment (a sensible corporate policy, in all honesty) alone neuters their complaints. I am happy to see General Motors pick up the pace and put emphasis on building fine passenger cars again after decades of neglect.

I think the fact GM has the Fastlane blog discounts the notion GM doesn't care what the public thinks.

"Toyota and other Japanese automakers are eating GM's lunch..."

What a stupid statement. GM delivers more than 9 million vehicles a year. That's about TEN times Audi's global output. Or it's 70 percent more than Volkswagens sales worldwide. GM's market-share in the US may have fallen to 24 percent. But that's still the same as the COMBINED German market share of VW and Toyota.
Need more examples...? As I believe, with its new products GM will reverse the latest tendencies, because people just want great products and these actually ARE great products! My next car for sure will be a GM-product again, although I have to drive 40 miles to the next dealership near Frankfurt.

Some media in the USA shouldn't report always that negative and biased against the American industry and behave more like German media, which stick to domestic brands, although the Japanese and American models perform better at quality surveys and already deliver Hybrids in contrast to the German manufacturers!

Wow-objectivity. Thank you Mr Brown. I'm amazed-you mean Toyota actually makes large gas guzzling trucks? Ones that burn gasoline? I thought they were hybrids burning Pixie Dew (distributed for free by the New York Times)
Quoth the "Times"
"Rubbish-Nevermore"

I want to reflect a few items I have noticed recently.

1) Car & Driver, in its Feb issue, reviewed 6 mid-priced sedans. No 4 was the Saturn Aura. Not great, but not bad. But it was 1 step higher than...drum roll please...the Toyota Camry!! Why? A part of the fact is that the Camry had quality issues!!! Imagine that. The Accord was number 1, showing that GM, while making great progress, has a long way to go.

2) The New York Times ran a story that Nissan, in order to grab market share, is making an Altima that is a clone of the Infiniti G35. They even mentioned GM and its past tendencies to badge-engineer. It was interesting to see that a Nissan, and other companies, have some of the same practices that people like to harp on GM for.

3) I just want people to think of what GM has done in the last 24 months. Names like Solstice/Sky, Lucerne, Aura, Silverado, and HHR have been generally getting very good reviews. Now Enclave, Malibu, CTS, Camaro are getting great first impression reviews. Some products, like G6, STS, LaCrosse were good, but not home runs. But GM is definitely on the right path!

Mr Brown does make a good point. Part of overall perception is what gets written in the press. I suppose that the press have gotten into a rut praising Toyota while Toyota is having record recalls for major problems, while the number and seriousness of recalls for GM is on the way down. Yet the press keeps on with the "Same old GM" song. It's frustrating. Though I do think that many of the cars coming in the next few years, the new Malibu in particular, may change their tune.

I think that these bloggers know baloney when they see it by now.

Mr. Brown knows exactly what you guys are up against in regards to perception. I do not work for GM or any automaker for that matter and I am a regular automotive blogger. I fight for GM at every turn as there are so many people out there with this same sentiment. It blows my mind that people are that passionate in a negative way when discussing anything you say or do in the very home market you have served since the beginning of the industry. Sure, GM has made mistakes in the past, just as every all auto companies have. GM as an entity is the largest target in the automotive world so it is easy to dump on for its past. These people need to open their eyes and realize that YES, GM has changed! I will be going for my MBA in the near future and will be applying to GM upon completing it. I have been negative in the past towards GM only for the fact that I wanted and knew it could be better. It is now and I want to be apart of the new GM and its future. Each car rolling off the line is another opportunity to impress a customer.... AND GM GETS IT!!!

Hey Bob;

I have a terrible idea!!!! lets rush a hybrid car to market, hype it up like "Toyota" has, and then hire a big legal team to fend off angry customers and a "Class Action Lawsuit".
Let's be realistic about this it would be great to have the VOLT on the lot today, but GM has a reputation to reclaim here in America. Quality is #1. Check out who has the highest number of recalls today. It's not GM. If GM continues it responsible courses it certainly long term gain market share.

Yeah Bob!

There's a lot of baloney on the table right now.

One even suggests that you are history next year. I heard you had to quelch that rumor as well. I hope you can stay on much longer than that.

I am totally impressed with what you have done with the new Malibu. The right engines; the right styling; the right fit for the marketplace.

I must admit though that Rick Wagoner has picked the perfect replacement for you, if and when you decide to retire.

GM's future is so bright, I'll have to wear shades. :)

Mr. Lutz:

It is shocking that a Washington Post writer, who is responsible for a "Real Wheels" live online discussion, is so poorly informed on what is going on in the auto industry. Maybe he does not like American companies, in particular American icons like General Motors. Maybe Mr. Brown is of the Thomas L. Friedman mind set, more than happy to criticize American institutions and pump-up foreign ones. Where were these columnists when the Honda corporate corruption scandal broke in the 1990’s? This scandal is documented in Steve Lynch’s 1997 book, “Arrogance and Accords: The Inside Story of the Honda Scandal” and at that time was one of the largest corporate corruption scandals in U.S. Justice Department history. Honda’s scandal got very little press. If General Motors did the things Honda did, I bet the resulting story would have got a lot of press. I congratulate you for standing up for General Motors and calling the Washington Post on their inaccuracies.

Respectfully,

Eric Matthew Vest

How will that blogger feel when he or she learns "modern" overhead cam technology dates back to at least the 1930's?

These guys @ the RenCen are trying harder and care more than anyother that has roamed the hallways since Sloan and his cronies... and yet still have people looking/searching/hoping they fail... I guess it's true, there is something inherant in us all that wants to see the 'underdog' win.

Dear Mr Lutz
We are all very excited about this car. Please don't let us down this time!
I am interested on whether GM truly believes there will be an impact on over CO2 emission with widespread adoption of this vehicle, and further will you plan to use this technology on commercial vehicles.
Also did you prototype actually house the Li-ion battery?
We welcome you to join our dedicated enthusiasts blog at http://www.gm-volt.com

Bob:

I sympathize with you as GM bashing appears to be a national sport, especially among the uneducated media. I feel like these journalists put on their GM glasses everytime they see a new product and look for things to criticize in attempt to fullfill a preconcieved notion that American products are inferior to Japanese cars. In contrast, when reviewing Japanese cars, they forgive the shortcomings that would be lombasted were they found in an American vehicle. Rest assured I do what I can to make GM's reputation catch up to reality by spreading the word to my co-workers and friends.

The GM vs. Toyota debate is echoing the political divide across the red and blue states. Each camp is entrenched in its own beliefs and is not easily persuaded by the other side. Kudos to people like Warren Brown who try to bring some sense to the debate.

Bob-- you were on the BBC today and the segment was great-- would love to hear it again-- is it archived somewhere?

Dear Mr. Planey,

interesting comment so far. Just let me add this: At Car & Driver-comparison tests ALWAYS the Japanese competition is gaining the 1st place. What's "funny": At German car magazines the Japanese competition very often falls far behind Opel's products. And, if I am not wrong, the Aura was engineered in Ruesselsheim... How could it be that very most of the newspapers over here disagree with Car & Driver...? The Opel (Saturn) Astra performed vastly better than the Honda Civic at a comparison test on German TV, too.

Referring to my information, not only the Camry has quality issues. I also could find reports about rust at the body rocker and the hatch holder of the Prius. Not to mention the latest recall... In Germany alone Toyota had to release at least ten recalls in recent times. If that would have happened to GM, you could watch a live coverage on CNN. I'd like to be fair and admit, that in general Toyota still builds excellent vehicles, but nevertheless it's my impression that their products are still a little overestimated.

I am confident, especially the redesigned Saturn-brand will become the worst nightmare to the Asian manufacturers in the next years.

It is very hard to make up for when a company stumbles. I have friends that will never buy a GM car ever again because they owned a GM car of the 1980s with quality issues. It's not fair for them to exclude GM products from their buying decision or hold a grudge but it's their right. My 1997 mid level Accord has nicer passenger comforts than my 2003 top level L300. GM has to learn to give the buyers what the buyers want, not what GM wants. A lot of positive talk surrounds the new Malibu, but it looks like a Chevroletized Aura to me. I still remember the Lincoln TV ad where the valet can't find the right car because all the GM products looked the same. These are complex machines that are being built. All manufacturers have recalls. It's incorrect to assume that the Japanese brands - the so called quality leaders don't have quality issues. I am excited about what GM is doing right now. But GM has to keep it going. Saturn was exciting at first, then GM let their line-up get tired. Where will GM be in 3, 5, 10 years from now? Still a leader or playing catch up.

John in Buffalo who wants GM to succeed

I'll be honest... You want to sell more cars? The best thing you could possibly do, regardless of whatever models you sell would be to have a 150,000 mile warranty. More than the current 100k one.

The reason you have people still beating the old: " foreign cars are better" drum is because from the 80's through most of the 90's, Japanese cars and trucks were incredibly engineered cars that could be counted on to last at least 200,000 miles or more. It takes years to gain back perception, and that only comes from a generation of cars that gains positive public acceptance by simply lasting longer and on a consistent basis.

People's driving habits have changed. Thanks to the latest housing bubble, people must now drive ever-further from urban centers- on average over an hour each way in the state of California. As a result, it only takes 2-5 years to accumulate 100k or more on a car. The new "high mileage" number is now 200k or more.

This is the reason I think a 150k warranty is more appropriate: People's perceptions of how long a car should last has changed. 100k is no longer that amazing of a benchmark. Instead, the attitude is that a car BETTER last AT LEAST 100k or more.

By offering a 150k warranty, you-

A: Give people reassurance in purchasing your products.

B: Introduce a new generation to your products.

C: Increase market share.

D: Most importantly: give long-term Toyota and Honda owners a reason to switch. Think about those Mac Versus PC commercials. Its OK to make an alternate choice.

I currently have a 12 year old Tacoma. I just washed and waxed it yesterday and it still looks brand new in and out. It now has over 200k on the odometer. This is the kind of reliability and quality I seek. So do most others like me who've come from a long-standing generation of toyota owners who got burned by American cars way back in the early 80's, almost 30 years ago.

That said, I rented a Pontiac Grand Prix from a Hertz 6 months ago and was very impressed with the car's comfort, fuel economy, features, power, and most of all- fun.

I am not at all against buying a GM product. But if you want me and others to do so, we need that one extra incentive to assure us that such a dramatic shift in driving preference is a good decision.

As usual Paul (1/19, 9:17 PM) goes straight to the bottom line.

Check out the advertised prices for Yaris hatchbacks in this weekend's LA Times. $10,988.

I was reading an article last week about Toyota's latest 500,000 plus vehicle recall. The article explained the problem and then pardoned Toyota because they were bound to run into some issues when they started to really have to ramp up production. Well welcome to GM's world. GM has made more vehicle lines at higher volumes than anyone in the industry for the past 50 years and have supported countless 100's of 1000's of employees and their families with salary and incredible benefits. It is THE American Car manufacturer and will beat Toyota. For those of you who don't believe just sit back and watch.

Bob

Let's be fair about Toyota: the company has seen huge growth. What's so bad about the Prius, except that it's successful? This isn't a car for the rich, like some detractors say. The base price for a Prius is around $22,000. The car sells off the lot for around $25,000. So what if the fuel average is not north of 50 mpg like the EPA numbers promote? 44 mpg (the real-world average) is a superb number for a roomy, affordable, small sedan. A Civic Hybrid will get you 37 mpg for the same price. Not bad at all.

Bob

GM is still paying the price for old mistakes. There is a lag time in public opinion. I also think there is a bash American first mindset among certain aging baby-boomer elites. It seems to me that when Americans have a recall there is a trumpeting triumphant call "see the Americans cant build anything" but the massive Toyota recalls hardly merit a ripple. There needs to be some way to change the thinking of Americans and to reinstill a pride and loyalty to things American. As trade defecits become more and more humongous and as the dollar continues to decline, as China and Asia grow stronger and as we become weaker, I believe there is going to be an opening for economic nationalism. As China grows stronger Japan and South Korea are going to realize that they need us more than we need them. The China that hopes to corner the market on auto parts is the same China that is practicing shooting down spy satellites. At some point, perhaps belatedly Americans will realize we are all in the same boat. GM needs to hire psychologists and marketing types that can change the midset of the consumer ot realize that 1.)
American is world class and not inferior and 2.) There are serious costs to being defeated by Asia in important industries. On a personal basis I feel insulted when I continuosly read that Japanese products are always superior to American. It makes me feel as if we are a third world country and that Americans are too stupid to make their own cars. As a historian I would like to remind readers that we once had something called the arsenal of democracy. In the 1940s this arsenal of democracy saved our bacon. The Big Three as well as the independants were a crucial part of that arsenal of democracy. America has been practicing unilateral industrial disarmament in a mercantilist world. Somehow public perception and buying decisions must be studied and chantged. Japanes transplant factories while employing Americans also represent foreign control of our economy. Americnas cheer for our athletes and teams at the olympics. Why cant we feel the same way about our great companies which in the past were the engines of our prosperity.

This is why this blog is such a great thing. Prior to this, GM had to sit back and let the media and "bloggers" write their own version of the truth that paints Toyota as some type of Jolly Green Giant while the Big 3 are the Axis of Evil as far as the environment is concerned.

The person that Brown responded to is typical of the mindset of import loyalists who feel they are authorities on all things automotive and yet really don't know much. It's a shame that some people are so closed minded and biased but GM can only worry about appealing to those who use logic when purchasing a new vehicle.

BTW, did that Toyota fan know that the "mid 20th century" pushrod V-6 in the current Malibu got 32mpg on the highway? I doubt it. You should really know what you are speaking of before you start attacking GM, or any other company for that matter. I wonder what he thinks about the new 14mpg Tundra that weighs over 2.5 tons and has worse mileage than the GM trucks.

Drew:
The problem with the Prius is the perception people have about how "green" it is, or how much money you'll save in fuel. Look at it this way:
12,500 mi/yr@ $2.50/gal.
At 25 mpg, you will use 500 gallons per year (that's overall mpg, not strictly highway). At $2.50/ gal, that's $1250 a yr.
With the Prius, you use 284.1 gal. @ 44 mpg, at a cost of $710.25. Now, considering a Malibu, Camry, Altima can ALL be had for around $5000 LESS, and afford you the same comforts (or greater) at 25 mpg (or more) it will take you 9 YEARS AND 3 MONTHS to make up that money, at which time you will have to replace the battery pack at a cost of ANOTHER $5000! ( I smell hazardous waste disposal, or recycling). I'll trade it in before it needs a battery pack you say, do you think that any dealers won't use this as leverage to get the trade in value down, costing you even more money? Now, I'm not saying that Toyota doesn't make good, viable autos. It's just that many of us here believe that allGM did in the '90's was follow the trends that people wanted versatile SUV's in an era of cheap gas. Could they have pushed out a gas/electric hybrid 5-7 years ago, I'll bet they could've. But somehow, I don't believe they would have gotten the press that Toyota got.

The Toyota Prius has been shown to be more of a burden upon the environment than a Hummer. - Design_Kid

I'm assuming you're talking about the study by CNW Marketing Research ("marketing research" - two words that automatically cast doubt in my mind) stating that the total cradle-to-grave energy cost of a Prius was higher than that of a Hummer H2. Toyota recently debunked those claims. And anyone with an lick of common sense can see that the H2 is a lot more energy expensive than a Prius. Finally, that study never publicly documented their research methods.

I think it is Toyota that deserves to go 'belly up' for putting the Prius on the Road!! - Design_Kid

And why is that?

Bob: Please give the 1 million loyal 1996 - 2007 Malibu owners an E-85 capable 3500 "mid 20th century" pushrod V-6 in the new 2008 Malibu with the 6-speed automatiic so they can get 34-38 mpg in a great looking $19,000 - $25,000 car.
They could even get 27 MPG on the E-85.

Don't forget the G6, Aura and 9-3 with the transmissions and some option upgrades.

While you are at it a 1.8L 140 HP Cobalt or Aveo capable of 40 MPG would be a great addition. The Aveo and Cobalt are competetive cars that only need a MPG boost.
If not the current Cobalt, make sure the next generation U.S. market Astra/Cobalt can get over 40 MPG and offer the excellent diesels GM has in Europe for over 50 MPG.

Add the 6-speed auto and upgrade the option list of the Impala for a 32-36 MPG 6-passenger car for $20,500. While you are at it put the 3.6L in the LTZ with the 6-speed and add a 6-speed to the SS.

Add the 6-speed across the GMT900 line and put the Holden Rodeo 3.6L with 5-speed into the Colorado.

Finally, add the 6-speed to the LaCrosse and Lucerne with a standard feature list a luxury brand should have.

Make these changes and GM sales and perception will improve (as will the net profit).

There are 3.5 million (3,500,000) Toyota vehicles affected by the engine sludge problem Bruce McPherran on January 19, 2007 06:07 PM mentions.

Has anyone heard our "high quality" media report this?

I have not, except for a quick mention before going to break or on the "crawl" at the bottom of the screen.

If this happened to GM products there would be a movie about it along with a year long series of "investigative reports".

Not to pick on Toyota but the media should report all significant recalls and problems to the U.S. public in a fair and unbiased manner.

Is that so much to ask?

Our "high quality" media should evaluate itself before passing judgement.

Hi Bob, I too am tired of the know-nothing,media pinheads and "follow the crowd" car buyers that bad-mouth American cars;especially GM products. Something that needs to be mentioned by the domestic companies in their advertising is the fact that-for instance, the amount of routine maintenance on say an Accord - with their idiotic 30,000 mile valve clearance inspection is pricey after awhile. No wonder the cars last forever, they are always being worked on. I have 60,000 miles on my 2000 Grand-Am...zero problems. The one thing I would suggest: I realize I am in the minority, but please provide (even as a factory option)the choice of a TRUE manual tranny on such awesome cars as the Aura and upcoming Malibu, if the Aura counter-part in Europe has a manual trans, so should the Aura. A Malibu SS with six speed manual trans? Holy cow sign me up.

I went to the Autoshow last week. Pontiac G6 GXP is smokin' hot!!! But here's a question to Bob Lutz: why not offer Xenon HID headlamps on that baby? Even as an option? My wife got a Caddy while I was still driving Taurus - I could seee the difference right there. I would never ever go back to a car without a pair of Xenon "eyes".

Not all liberal Democrats are anti-GM and pro-Japanese when it comes to car companies. I consider myself an environmentalist who believes that global warming is for real. So I bought a mid-sized vehicle (3,200 lbs) that gets 30+ mpg on the highway and averages 27 overall but is still substantial enough to fend off large truck-based vehicles when necessary (and more easily avoid them collisions than larger vehicles).

UH2L
http://www.thingsivenoticed.com

For Toyota, a huge benefit of their success is momentum and the cash to be able to launch an amazing PR campaign. I see electronic billboards touting Toyota's 50 years in America, numerous ads in every media outlet about their presence in rural places, doing such great things for americans. Where is GM's voice?!

Fire all of your advertising agencies and pr firms and get in the game.

GM has many years of garbage vehicles for which it is still paying in terms of how it is viewed in the eyes of the American public. Constant badge engineering is another issues which has caused many issues.

GM sells wonderful vehicles around the world, yet doesn't sell them in the US, or if it does they are not badged as GM products (the Chevrolet Lacetti, Matiz, Epica and the wonderful Captiva).

They sold Holdens but rebadged them under the Pontiac moniker, which just belittled a great Holden product.

They are doing something wonderful by selling Opels in the US again (finally), but unfortunately they'll be Saturns.

People will buy good, exciting products regardless of brand name.
Bring on the Commodore, the Captiva, the Matiz, the Cadillac BLS and stop the badge engineering. Slap a GM badge on the front quarter panels to show that said companies are part of the GM organisation and move forward.

The Optra 5 (Lacetti) brought me to GM from a VW Turbo Bora (Jetta) because of its solid Opel designed (Holden built) engine and getrag gearbox. Its wonderful ItalDesign body and modern multi-link suspension all around, and we're talking about a car that not only cost $11,500 American with great standard features, but sadly a car that doesn't carry a GM brand name in the US (that was fixed by contacting GM Canada to correct this oversight of rebadging).

GM Products will sell, just get rid of the marketing department who tearfully hang on to the myth of Domestic GM designs being somehow nicer than GM's international units.

Eric

BTW everybody, this blog is very inrteresting but I must tell you, that any direct reference to a "product quality" problem (such as brakes, A/C components and so on) usually do not make it onto the blog. With that being said, I wish to make a statement in GMs defense. They are getting better becaue they now have "US" to tell them about their faults.
Hondas and Toyotas do have problems but the time spent in the shop over their lifetimes is a fraction of what I have had to deal with with my GM products. BUT that was then and I will be in the market this summer for a car and I will give GM another shot.
Will they make a car that gets 60MPG soon?
I truly think they will. They have some great engines in the works according to what I have read. But I do hope they get a world class 4 cyl and a diesel before VW and Honda.
AND I am really against the fact that GM and other American companies can't afford to build plants here while the Japanese and Koreans can, What's up?

The press reports that Speaker Pelosi intends to form a special committee to consider solutions to global warming, and to introduce legislation by summer.

This is not an original idea, as some other blogger first suggested it some days or weeks ago, but now must be the time to start lobying for a big tax credit to Volt buyers.

As I said in response to his suggestion, if the feds could give out $3500 tax credits for Prius (Priuses?), they could easily justify the $6000 the other blogger proposed for a Volt.

Fire up your lobbyists Bob. I will even generate a few letters and phone calls myself.

It's safe to say Detroit manufacturers are closing the reliability gap with Honda and Toyota. The complaint I hear echoing from consumers and the press is build quality. Comparison tests have had cars like the Malibu and the Cobalt outperforming their Toyota/Honda counterparts, but still suffering from the "cheap interior, rough ride syndrome." The upgraded cabins and new products give me real hope.

I would like to see GM take big gambles on styling. I long to see Chevrolet take a risk on the next Corvette. Do something different. Follow the Callaway design model. Make a turbo or supercharger. Install a V-12. Just do something that makes the Corvette different unique again! It's too conventional!

I drive a 2002 Buick Regal GS, which has had nothing but routine maintenance for the original owner & myself. 105K and counting. I average 30+ MPG on my highway commute with a supercharged v6 that is quiet and powerful ( 14.7 1/4 mi 6.6 0-60 according to reviews)it is large & comfortable, most foreign compacts with half the space and half the power get slightly better than 30mpg, never mind their larger cars, as someone mentioned earlier overhead cams are 80 year old technology also what they didn't mention is that they require more moving parts and more complicated repairs . GM did lose sight but has regained it if they keep swinging they will start winning over the critics.

Keep your eyes on the prize Bob!

Keep your eyes on the prize.

Let's reinvent the sedan.

Let's make America energy independent with flex fuel vehicles.

Ethanol has OPEC shaking in it's boots. Just the thought that the industry is developing and that we will have an alternative to volatile energy prices and their MONOPOLY changes the game and they know it.

And here is a reminder, we do the Volt not because oil prices are high but because they are volatile. There is a saying for this...

Fool me once shame on you, fool me twice, shame on me.

Don't be fooled by low oil prices again.

See....

We can compete with OPEC!

We can compete with Toyota!

We can compete on design!

We can compete on technology!

We can compete on production!

We can compete on growth!

We can compete on quality and efficiency!

We CAN compete and we CAN win in every one of these categories.

But we cannot compete with ignorance! So let me focus on the what we can win.

Bob I am proud of you and Rick you saved the company, BUT and it's a big BUT.

GM is only as strong as its brands and I don't feel like we are going in the right direction with some of them.

The product side is going excellent don't get me wrong. But the consumer is not stupid. No matter what we say we can be down to our last breath arguing the point, but when a consumer sees the sign everyday on their way to work, they know. Pontiac-GMC-Buick- Chevy. They know just like AMC-Jeep-Eagle, the American brand is dead.

If your only asset is yesterday's sales and the returning customer and you fail to attract new customers with a strong brand, it's only a matter of time.

I can fight perceptions for you, I can't fight reality, the signs are all over.

So you can build a car,

So you can build a factory,

So you can build a new engine,

We can even build a great organization to make sure we can continue to do it in the future.

But if you can't build a brand, what in the end are we building? What in the end will have any value?

In the end you have added nothing but perhaps only slowed the decline.

Bob, I love what you and GM are building, but the only thing that will prove unchanging, lasting and eternal is the brand you build and the philosophy you put behind it.

In short:

Joe next CEO, and Jack product guy can tear down everything you build, but you build a great brand and it can bounce and outlast them. But a week brand even with the best CEO and organization in time, eventually, one day it will fall flat on it's face and there will be not the will to revive it.

Fastlane short:

Figure this one out, you're in Detroit.

You need rhythm and soul.

I better explain.

Rhythm is the constant change or redesign, update, or face-lift.

Soul is that which is unchanging, that which is priceless and that which makes the band integral and worthy to keep.

Anybody (like "Phil" above) who thinks "quality" autos like "Audi & Toyota" will eat GM's lunch until 2014, obviously has never owned one of those brands. Let me share with you my brother-in-law's experience with the $1,400 (routine) brake job on his Audi TT along with the $30 liters of Castrol power steering fluid the car required - he sold the car and bought a Silverado. Or about my pal who rear-ended a two week old Camry last summer and totalled it. His Grand Prix suffered a scratch on the bumper.

I own five GM products currently, all of which have over 125,000 miles. Brake jobs cost me under $300, I've never had any major issues with any of them, and my Grand Prix (powered by its "mid-20th century pushrod" 3800 V6) averages 25-30 MPG city/Hwy.

If that's what GM's critics call "junk", I'm glad I don't own a "quality" import!!!

I am still amazed that you consider OHC techology newer than OHV when in FACT OHC came first by like 9 years.

r. Lutz: Silver Spring, Md. will be "amazed" to discover the fact that the Impala with the "mid-20th century push-rod V6" outperforms the Prius in many real world driving conditions since it can carry more passengers and cargo at a higher MPG per passenger.

Obviously they have never seen this blog that not only "invite public comments" but has posted and responded to many that were less than friendly.

Keep up the good work and get the Volt, G8 and Corsa to market ASAP.

Posted by: Rick Lupori on January 19, 2007 10:14 PM

Bob,

It is refreshing to see a journalist who tells it like it is.

I drive an '05 Malibu base model, and it has been trouble free from day one. It gets GREAT mileage too. So, I know that GM can build a quality vehicle.

GM has one thing over the Japanese auto companies that they will NEVER have - Heritage.

Please try to incorporate more design cues from the past in your new designs. I love the "Ventiports" on the Buicks and the tall thin taillights of the Cadillacs, but there is so much more you can do. I don't mean totally retro, just enough to set them apart from the "appliance" cars of the imports.
The Camaro concept is a great example. How about a Cadillac Fleetwood that is a true flagship for GM. Call it the FLS if you have to, just make it reminiscent of the past glory of the '50-60's Caddys. Make it the most technologically advanced car GM has ever built and make it long and low. I know I am not the only one who would do just about anything to have one.

I agree with some previous posts - it will take some time to get the bad taste out of the mouths of '80's -90's GM owners, but you will with the great products that you are introducing. The new Malibu and CTS are wonderful.

Thanks for listening to us, we really do want GM to succeed.

"why not offer Xenon HID headlamps on that baby? Even as an option?" Dmitry Koublitsky

As Dmitry points out - why not put HID or LED technology into more GM products across the board. With GM's volume they should be able to do it on the cheap. If they can put stabli-track onto every car they can surely upgrade the lighting system. I read somewhere that GM is not in favour of HIDs due to the glare and yet in Europe they have auto-leveling devices to reduce glare so that argument doesn't hold water. I know my next purchase will include HID lighting, however, will it be a GM. Your move. Tomoe

Mr. Lutz:

I got the wrong end of the stick in my previous post. I agree with Mr. Warren Brown and my apologies to him for my misunderstanding. My previous post comments apply to the writer who identified themselves as "Silver Spring, Md."

Respectfully,

Eric Matthew Vest

Sorry about the "late hit"--I replied to this post almost as soon as it went up, but that (and a few other earlier replies to other posts) got lost in the system. Many thanks to GM Blogs Manager Bill Betts and his team for helping me out, thus proving that they'll go out of their way in order to make sure that opposing views are heard!

As for those opposing views: I must take exception to the first couple of sentences in this blog post. If by "using facts to set the record straight" you mean something like this FYI Blog post in response to last year's movie "Who Killed the Electric Car?", well, that post was high-RPM spin. For details on the facts and context that were left out of that post, check this rebuttal. And if by "objective third parties" you mean the columnist reprinted in this FYI post, take a look at the third reply, by Plug In America, to see how "objective" that columnist was.

The credibility of GM's electric-drivetrain promises as embodied in the Volt, the fuel-cell Equinox, and the Triax from 1999 (remember that?) will be suspect as long as we keep hearing the same old spin about why GM abandoned the promises that led to the EV1.

Prove you are better than Toyota with superior products. Typically, I see whining on this blog about media perception. If GM put as much effort into building outstanding vehicles as it did complaining about the media there would be no longer be any import/domestic gap perception gap to speak of.

Bob,

I think most people will admit GM has made astounding strides in reliability. The car that turned me off from domestics, the first car I ever bought with my heart earned cash, was a 1990 Chevy Beretta GT. Thank GOD you don't build cars like that thing was built, with it's peeling paint, peeling dash board foam padding, and door pannels held on by 4 screws through the hardest plastic on earth. But I think people are getting to the point where, for them to enthusiastically embrace GM, they have to go beyond the competition. I will have that new Camaro in my garage, no doubt. But what's going to be sitting next to it? A 2007 Toyota FJ Cruiser. I'll have it within the next couple of months. Why an FJ and not a Hummer H3 or Chevy SUV? Well, fun factor is one (it just looks cool). The DOHC V6 is another. That 6 speed stick really helps. The on pavment ride quality blows anything Hummer, GMC, Chevy, Jeep, and pretty much any other SUV away. And since it's going to be my daily cruiser, and I drive 25,000 miles/year, Toyota's legendary reliability (especially in the storied FJ/Prado/Land Cruiser lineage) is extra reassurance for me.

Now, if I could go to my Chevy dealer and get a SUV with that sort of fun factor complete with a strong high tech V6 AND a 6 speed manual transmission, I'd definitely consider it.

You gotta think outside the box, Bob. Everyone told Toyota when they released the FJ concept in 2003 that it would be a flop and told them not to build it. Today, to get the color and options I want, I have to wait at least a month and I still may not be able to get it equiped with the exact options I want. So be it, I'll still take it (and I won't be getting much off sticker, and believe me I've tried).

Wouldn't you like to have an SUV in your arsenal that has that kind of appeal? I know the lambdas are going to be nice, so we'll see. But they still don't offer a stick shift.

How many times have I come on this blog and begged, pleaded, and cajoled you to offer manual transmissions on alot more vehicles than you do?

Your transmission stock pile should consist of nothing but 6 speed manuals and 6 speed automatics. Immediately. Yesterday.

Quit doing things 97.5 percent.

I agree with the guys at BBC Top Gear about the prius... just take a look at their video!...

[url]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ATeoSRWFSkA[/url]

gm has had their problems but no one is perfect

I do understand that OHC engines have been around since the early 1900's and many "exotic" engine valve trains (including variable valve timing) have been used since then. Remember the piston engine went through an extensive development phase for use in aircraft, trains and cars during this time and many innovative designs were developed and proven.

An inline engine should be an OHC design in order to maximize flow with minimum friction and complexity. Normally aspirated 4-Cylinder Inline engines must rev over 3000 RPM to maximize power delivery and the OHC design is best suited for this. The inline design also only requires one chain or belt drive system not the complex multiple one of a "V" design all which add more weight and mass.

"V" type engines can use either with an OHV engine providing better low end torque and MPG at a typical 2000 RPM cruise speed.

OHC engines can achieve similar results but need a more complex (expensive) fuel delivery and valve phasing system to maximize low-end torque. This complexity has caused many designs to have a serious oil sludge problems resulting in premature engine failure.

The bottom line is the cost, weight and larger overall size of an OHC "V" design is not needed in a "family vehicle" or one that the driver spends most of their time at a steady highway speed. An OHV V6 engines torque will provide competitive power for climbing hills and acceleration at speeds below 80 MPH. An OHV V8 is more than a match for a OHC V8 with a sizable weight and cost advantage.

A Turbo or Supercharger equalizes the performance advantage of a OHC V6 vs. a OHV V6 as the Regal GNX and Regal GS prove.

The GM 3500 and 3800 V6 will provide 30 - 35 MPG even handicapped by a 4-speed automatic in a 6-passenger car. The world class GM small block V8 has proven the virtues of OHV pushrod design for 52 years. It is one of the best engine designs of all time and can deliver 30 MPG in a Corvette and over 20 MPG in a Silverado truck and has won Le Mans against many excellent OHC designs.

GM needs to take full advantage of these effective designs and install the 3500 V6 in the HHR and Cobalt where they will provide over 30 MPG highway and give the response buyers want without making the vehicle larger or incurring the $500 to $1000 cost of an OHC design. The superior OHV V6 low end torque curve will get these near 3000 pound vehicles moving and will deliver real world MPG competitive with 4-cylinders in "mixed" driving.
4-cylinders may do better in "city" driving or when mated to a manual transmission, unfortunately most U.S. drivers prefer automatics.

OHC heads on a "V" type engine add a substantial amount of mass to the engine and preclude using them in many small vehicles.

OHC design can be used in a "performance" application or "luxury" one where the buyers want high RPM (above 3000) performance and will use it. Or for luxury buyers who insist on complex design (needed or not) and are willing to pay for it.

GM now offers an excellent 3.2L and 3.6L OHC V-6 and will offer a direct injected one in the 2008 CTS. The older OHC Northstar V-8 is competitive (although starting to show it's age) and will be replaced soon with a new design.

GM has installed these OHV and OHC engines in most vehicles that fit that vehicle buyers needs and hopefully will continue with the 3500 in the Malibu and add the 3.6L OHC to the LTZ trim Impala. This will increase sales of both vehicles and satisfy buyers wanting E-85 capability with high MPG or ones that want that high-speed power.

It is an anamoly that American autos (especially GM) get continuous bad press from the MSM. You'd think of all the cars and trucks they manufacture, some would come out right.

With press like that, who needs enemies.

I'm still amazed at the number of people who consider 30+ mpg to be "good" mileage.

I'm not even considering a vehicle that gets under 40 mpg on the highway, and my next car will probably get over 50 mpg on the highway.

Bob

I'm glad to see you're still swinging while suffering the slings and arrows of outrageous reporting. Enjoy your blog.

Chris

JOE D. TOYOTA DOES NOT OFFER ALL 6 SPEEDS IN THEIR ARSENAL,, WHEN COMPARING APPLES TO APPLES , LETS BE FAIR!! ALSO IF YOU COMPARE TOYOTAS QUALITY,, IT IS NOT SO LEGENDARY,, ITS JUST A MYTH AND PERCEPTION,,JUST A CLASS ACTION LAWSUIT NEVER A RECALL

According to the Detroit News study by J.D. Power, 70 percent of consumers who avoid American brands cite "concerned about reliability" as their chief reason.

By comparison, only 20 percent of those who avoid Asian brands say reliability is a concern, and just 19 percent of European brand avoiders express concerns about vehicle reliability.

The perception, however, does not match the reality.

In J.D. Power's 2006 benchmark study of vehicle dependability, American vehicles registered 234 problems per 100 vehicles after three years of ownership. European vehicles had 270 reported problems, and Asian brands had 208.

In its study for The News, J.D. Power concluded that the perception gap is definitely dragging the Big Three down in the marketplace.

"American vehicles are avoided due to perceived quality concerns much more frequently than imported vehicles," the study said. "Actual quality of American vehicles shows a much more competitive outlook."

You can get the report at
http://detnews.com/graphics/2007/0102jdpower.pdf

Tim S,

I know Toyota doesn't have 6 speeds in every vehicle, but they have them in a heck of a lot more than GM. And the rest of their cars and trucks do have 5 speeds. My point is that GM not only needs to worry about keeping up with Toyota, but to win back customers they need to stay ahead of them. One way of doing that is to offer 6 speed trans. on every vehicle, and make alot more available with true manual transmissions.

That class action lawsuit you refer to RE: oil sludge build up on the 3.3 V6 is about the only dark spot on Toyota's otherwise impeccable record. Now, I'm sure you don't want me to start naming all the less than stellar products from GM in the last 30 years, starting from the Citation, Chevette, HT4100s, 350 diesel, and my Beretta. Heck, the F-bodies asside from their performance were the worst rattle boxes I've ever experienced, right untill they ceased in '02. I'd still be here all night, and I really don't have time for that.

No manufacturer is perfect. But, GM has a bit more pressure on them than anyone because they need to win people back they lost BECAUSE of bad experiences. That's very hard to do, which is why they need to raise their standards beyond expectation.

Toyota last year RECALLED MORE vehicles than it SOLD!!!

Toyota recalled 2.38 million vehicles in the U.S. -- more than the 2.26 million vehicles Toyota sold...

Need we say more?

I think not.

Joe D,, the oil sludge problem was also for 4 cyl. models from ,, I think,,, 1997- 2002,, according to automotive news,, Are you kidding me ,, that is the only dark spot they have had??? To be fair GM has had their fair share of problems,,piston slap,, among many others ,, Dont get me wrong, I think Toyota cars are great cars,,but they are not superior to anyone out there right now! What about the latest recall with their SUVs? 500,000 of them? The post from jessup says alot!! I agree with you about GM staying ahead of the competition to change peoples image of GM,, IT s going to be a lot of work,, but I say lets give the General another look ,, It may surprise many people!! nice talking to you Joe

".... less than stellar products from GM in the last 30 years, starting from the Citation, Chevette, HT4100s, 350 diesel....."
Joe D, Cleveland on January 27, 2007 09:51 PM

350 diesel? Less than stellar?

In the hands of an experienced diesel owner (that's me), the 350 diesel will run for hundreds of thousands of miles like my 350 diesel - 238,000 currently on the clock and many more coming.....

I rebuilt it at 215,000 with new rings, connecting rod bearings, timing chain, etc. But, the engine basically looked great for that many miles. The crankshaft & pistons were in "like new" condition.

Contrary to popular belief, that engine is not "less than stellar". See www.olds-diesel.com.

American products are inferior to Japanese cars! BIGGEST PROPAGANDA LIE since Toyko Rose!!!!!!
I owned an auto salvage for many years and I gotta tell ya, All cars are hundreds of times better than they were 20 years ago. Unfortuneatly when the imports improved , sure they were much better than the imports of the 60's and 70's, but they truthly were not better than domestic cars, maybe almost equal in quality, but never better.
As far as engines go only people that have victims of the Baloney propaganda fell for the hype of OHC being better than OHV. BMW has an engine that doesn't even use a camshaft! All the valves are controlled electronically. So I guess OHC technology is outdated, so get with the program!!
BTW, why all the quality problems at Toyota? They are building their cars in the USA!! We do not have the mentality of the Japanese to work as thoughtless drones, we are individuals!!

GM, KEEP AT IT AND YOU WILL BURY YOUR COMPETITION. PLAY ON TOYOTA'S RECALLS AND AVOID HAVING RECALLS OF YOUR OWN.
My partiality shows like a sore thumb, but GM forever.
Remember, Baseball, apple pie and Chevrolet!
Ford can choke and so can Daimler Chrysler and never give any credence to imports.

Paul,

People on here talking about 30+ mpg are talking about MIDSIZE sedans with V6 engines. We all know you can get better mileage in a compact with a four cylinder engine, but 30mpg + in a car with a v6 that weighs over 3400 lbs is impressive. Stop trying to find ways to paint GM or its owners as stupid or unknowledgable. Your posts show you are so determined to villify GM that you don't even read the posts on this blog well enough to understand what people are saying.

I have 4 Toyotas. The newest is 6 years old and the oldest is 8. Mileage ranges from 64K miles to 124K miles. I have put ZERO repair dollars into these cars. They don't squeak or rattle and there's less noise coming from the engine compartment of even the highest-mileage car than from the nearly new domestic products up and down my street.

And if I wax them and clean the interiors they still look new.

Since switching to Toyotas, I have considerably reduced my automotive expense.

Explain to me, why do I want to switch to GM?

As for Toyota getting a pass on their new Tundra, in spite of its execrable gas mileage, here's two things to consider:

1. It is not up to me to police Toyota. They are in business to make money. However, Toyota offers cars that allow me to be as green as possible. GM doesn't.

2. In spite of the EPA sticker, at the recent Edmunds Inside Line test, the new Tundra got about 12% BETTER gas mileage than the Chevy Silverado.

As for posting "facts" from bloggers on your blog, the "study" that concluded there was a higher energy investment in a Prius over its lifetime than in a Hummer was seriously flawed and you either know it and posted the reference in spite of it or you don't know it and you darn well should.

The 30+ MPG is achieved using "Ancient" OHV Pushrod V-6 engines attached to "archaic" 4-speed automatics in 6-passenger FULL SIZE sedans - and all in REAL WORLD driving conditions.

Sadly, GM has bought the baloney auto writers have been putting out and (from available data) are not offering the class exclusive OHV 3500 in the new Malibu. This is a classic GM move where they alienate loyal buyers who will now buy other brands. They have also given up one of few unique to GM features that attracted family car buyers looking for V6 performance at a 4-cylinder price that delivered the same or better MPG. I know many ex-Accord/Camry 4-cylinder owners who get better MPG in the current Malibu/Impala than they did with the 4-cylinders. GM also gives away the E-85 advantage it has spent millions of dollars to develop.

The current Malibu offers three engine choices and has close to a million happy owners who will want a 3500 V6 with E-85 capability attached a 6-speed automatic with the equipment found on today’s LT2 package.

GM needs to remember family car buyers first look for:
Safety
Utility
Reliability
Economy

Then they look at:
Styling
Performance
Luxury

The new Malibu has all bases covered except for Economy, which is a place, the current one excels with the added bonus of V6 performance.

Even if the 3500 V6 has a higher MPG rating than the 2.4L 4-cylinder (which it probably does and why GM is hesitant) they need to offer the 3500 V6 with the 6-speed. Buyers on the coasts will still want the 4-cylinder with it's higher "City" rating and those wanting the 3.6L performance (300 HP direct injection in 2009 please) it is available.

The key to solid sales growth lies with the 3500 V6 in a well-optioned package to maintain current buyers while adding new ones.

For once GM should give this a try.

If not there will be the usual first year sale bump then back to 2007 level sales as lost buyers outnumber new ones.

The Toyota sludge class action suit agreed to in Louisiana affects 3.5 MILLION vehicles whose engines have gummed up and quit running (some in less than 36,000 miles).

Affected vehicles are:
1997-2001 4-cyl. Camry
1997-2002 V6 Camry
1999-2001 4-cyl. Camry Solara
1999-2002 V6 Camry Solara
1998-2002 V6 Sienna
1997-2002 V6 Avalon
1997-1999 4-cyl. Celica
2001-2002 V6 Highlander
and
1997-2002 Lexus ES 300 V6
1999-2002 Lexus RX 300 V6

There is also the 1.2 Million Toyota Tundra trucks and SUV's for front suspension and ball joint problems.

Grand total 4.7 million.

Reality check here - there is no Toyota "quality advantage" any longer.

The hard facts are that GM, Ford, Honda, Toyota and others make quality vehicles today and that GM offers as many as Toyota.

GM and Toyota have had nearly the same number of vehicles in the top of the JD Power quality survey the last few years and new GM products are better than their predecessors.

Buick has been one ot the top brands in initial quality for years and one of the the best in long-term quality ratings.

It is time for Toyota fans to wake up. Maybe it's time you guys give other brands a good honest look - you will find many great vehicles out there.

Great post Rick Lupori. Thanks for the details on all those toyotas! There was even a lot of talk about toyota denying there was even a problem and blaming people for not doing scheduled maintenance! It amazes me though how people will hold that against GM, but not toyota, to be fair, I know of many stories of bad dealings from GM dealers and the corporation itself. It must be that GM has been selling more cars, longer, in this country and has built up that problem . Now that toyota is doing the same things, lets see if they suffer the same? To get to the environment equation, I wish there was more info. from GM on their hybrid buses, these things save alot of fuel and are in the ideal situations in cities around the country!!

“Baloney” is what it is and I’ve been seeing it come at me as a consumer from all different angles. The public at large rants and raves on fuel mileage and how some manufactures are greener than others when the price of fuel jumps to what they believe is un-chartered territory. They must have forgotten the fuel crunches of the early 80’s which, inflation adjusted, still boasts higher prices then what our nation has seen to date. The same public that complained also boosted truck sales of all manufactures as gas prices softened last year.

The fact is that the United States general public is a blind lost puppy of sorts listening for a familiar voice to follow. Once that voice endorses or critics a product, the manufacturer feels the after shock. Facts are facts, GM is playing catch up on the Hybrid field. Everyone in the company has conferred and is in agreement that the ball was dropped. The Volt is a step in the right direction and shows the companys’ commitment to new and innovative technologies. Although honestly has anyone compared the fuel economy of all these manufactures in other segments, or do the voices turn a blind eye to segments with less compelling statistics. What other manufacture can showcase a production vehicle that boast 400 horsepower and gets over 25 mpg?

Lessons are often learned when life slaps you in the face. GM in my view still has a more lessons to learn, but sitting and dwelling on who is or will be number one isn’t one of them. GM must strive to be the best in everything that it does. Everyone is currently so fixated on who will be the biggest or number one in sales. That proves very little, after all GM has been number one for how many years even though the products being produced for a number of those years where lacking in quality, fit, and finish. Be the best and number one will follow.

Volt, Prius, Tundra, Silverado...this isn't what the public is upset about. It's the fact that all the auto manufactures say they have concepts that can get 60 miles to the gallon, BUT nothing ever comes of it.

The public is tired of the "Hey, our new Tahoe gets 1 more mile to the gallon now!" That is nothing to brag about. We should be getting an average of 80 miles to the gallon with strides every year to increase that by 10 miles.

Actually, we should be beyond petroleum.

I've been hearing about hydrogen for how many years from GM, but they blame infrastructure......well, here's a free idea GM: let your dealerships offer hydrogen filling stations, that's a start.

The public is just tired of the excuses and our $4000.00 a month fuel bills.

The Volt, A Prius Killer?

Give me a break. GM won't even start producing the Volt until 2010...By then Toyota will have a Prius killer of their own.

Stop blaming the battery technology Bob. Tesla has it now.

Why don't you just tell the truth. GM is so heavily invested in the continuation of the internal combustion engine that it can't convert to a brand new technology. And besides, where is the profit in PHEVs. When PHEVs become successful GM will no longer have the profit connected with servicing the internal combustion engine. No more oil changes, tuneups, filter changes, exhaust system replacements. What is the profit from that sector Bob? I suspect it's pretty high, and you count on it.

So why should the public expect that you will deliver on your Volt? You killed the EV1, which I will never forgive you for. And I suspect you will do it again.

GM will never voluntarily give up the profit it derives from the internal combustion engine , its big cars and trucks.

PHEVs are a disruptive technology in the market place, and one that may not have any where near the profit potential of the internal combustion cars. Why would you rush into a technology like that.

So continue putting off the judgement day Bob. It will be companies like Tesla Motors that will eat your lunch some day...not Toyota.

I have a very real emotional connection with GM. I am proud of this company and I hope for the very best. I used to dream of working at GM.

However, I am frustrated when people wonder why people see GM as outdated and behind. While Toyota, BMW, and even Ford talk about their success and the promise of the future, GM is usually silent. If they are innovating (which I know GM is), talk about it. People want to do business with a company that wants to make their lives better.

The article below is a great example of this problem:

http://autos.msn.com/advice/CRArt.aspx?contentid=4024679

Where is GM?

I was a Service Manager at a GM dealership for four years. During that time, I gladly and proudly helped many people who were loyal GM customers, and some who were potential loyal GM customers, by performing warranty and some out-of-warranty repairs at GM's expense. This was done with GM's blessing and sometimes at GM's urging, with many of the cases involving both the vehicle and the relationship with the customer having been already dismantled by other dealership service departments. I was thrilled when GM rolled out a program that gave service managers greater latitude to make such decisions at the dealership level, and I used it wisely to enhance customer satisfaction. I've since moved on to other opportunities, and the small business I work for has all GM vehicles, seven in all ranging from an SRX to a Lucerne to a Terraza to two Aveo delivery cars. There is a campaign for a timing belt issue with the Aveo, that we were not aware of, even though we take our vehicles to the dealership for maintenance, and one of our Aveos self-destructed when the timing belt failed. It is still well within warranty on time, but is out of warranty on miles. The dealership wants over five thousand dollars to repair this little car, and the same GM rep I used to go to bat for and handle things for (I never once told him no when he asked me for help) won't even return my calls. Customer loyalty isn't built in car magazines, it's built by long-standing relationships between buyers and dealership personnel, with customers being treated like the most important people in the world, because they are. Now, after I've worked hard to influence the decision makers in this company to go all-GM (company vehicles used to be Nissans) I'm being asked whether this would have happened if our delivery cars were Toyotas or Nissans or Hondas, instead of Aveos.