วันจันทร์ที่ 7 กรกฎาคม พ.ศ. 2551

>>Chevrolet Beretta

Chevrolet Beretta

Chevrolet Beretta
Manufacturer Chevrolet
Parent company General Motors
Production 1987–1996
Assembly Wilmington, Delaware
Linden, New Jersey
Predecessor Chevrolet Citation
Class Sport compact
Body style(s) 2-door coupé
Layout FF layout
Platform L-body
Engine(s) 2.0L 4cyl 90 hp/108tq (1988-89)
2.8L V6 125 hp/160tq Auto (1988-89)
2.8L V6 130 hp/160tq 5-Speed (1989)
3.1L V6 135 hp/180tq (1990)
2.2L 4cyl 95 hp/120tq (1990-91)
2.3L Quad-4 180 hp/160tq (1990-92)
3.1L V6 140 hp/185tq (1991-92)
2.2L 4cyl 110 hp/130tq (1992-93)
2.3L 4cyl 175 hp/155tq (1993)
3100 V6 160 hp/185tq (1994)
2.3L 4cyl 170 hp/150tq (1994)
2.2L 120hp/130tq I4 (1994-96)
3100 V6 155 hp/185tq (1995-96)
Transmission(s) 3-speed 3T40 automatic
4-speed 4T60-E automatic
5-speed manual
Wheelbase 103.4 in (2626 mm)
Length 187.2 in (4755 mm)
Width 67.9 in (1725 mm)
Height 53.2 in (1351 mm)
Fuel capacity 15.2 US gallons (57.5 L/12.7 imp gal)
Related Chevrolet Corsica
Pontiac Tempest

The Chevrolet Beretta was a front wheel drive coupé produced by the Chevrolet division of General Motors from 1987 through 1996. It was built in Wilmington, Delaware and Linden, New Jersey along with its GM L platform mates, the Chevrolet Corsica and the Canada-only Pontiac Tempest sedan. The Beretta was designed in Chevrolet Exterior Studio 3, the same design studio as the Chevrolet Camaro and Corvette, but the Beretta slotted below the two.

There were three versions of the Beretta produced, Base/CL, GT, and higher-end GTU/Indy/GTZ/Z26. A Beretta convertible was the pace car for the 1990 Indianapolis 500. Chevrolet announced a production version of the Beretta convertible for sale in the 1990 model year, but the vehicle never reached showrooms.

1990 Chevrolet Beretta Indy Pace Car replica
1990 Chevrolet Beretta Indy Pace Car replica

The GTU was a special Beretta model on sale from 1988-89. Each was made by taking a fully loaded Beretta GT (w/ Z51 suspension package) and shipping it to Cars and Concepts. They equipped it with 16x7" aluminum alloy wheels, custom ground effects, rear spoiler, mirrors, custom trim, and decals. With the stiffer suspension equipped on the GTUs, these cars were capable of 0.92 G on the skidpad, well above most cars available. GTUs came in black, white, or red.

The GTZ was the high-performance Beretta, and was produced from 1990-1993. It came standard with Oldsmobile's 2.3L High Output Quad 4, which produced 180 hp (134 kW) and 160 ft·lbf (217 N·m) of torque. Also standard was a Getrag 5-speed manual transmission and GM's FE7 performance suspension. The car posted a 0-to-60 mph time of 7.6 seconds and one of the fastest slalom speeds of any front wheel drive car tested, even besting the rear wheel drive Chevrolet Camaro. Motor Trend's only complaint was the Quad 4's NVH (noise, vibration and harshness) and noted it was one of the most raucous engines of its time. Beginning in 1991 the 3.1 L V6 could be had as an option on the GTZ, but it was only available with a 3-speed automatic transmission that reduced the 0-to-60 mph time to around 9.0 seconds. The 3.1 L V6 was standard on 1990-1992 GT models and optional for all base models and GTs in 1993. Starting in the 1994 model year the 3.1 L V6 could only be ordered with an automatic transmission.

The 1991 model year saw major interior updates, including a new dashboard/center console and the addition of a driver's side airbag.

1996 Chevrolet Beretta Z26
1996 Chevrolet Beretta Z26

In 1994, the GT and GTZ were replaced by the Beretta Z26, which put it squarely between the Cavalier Z24 and Camaro Z28 in Chevrolet's lineup. The 3.1 L V6 was redesigned and became the 3100 Series V6 and gained 20 hp for a grand total of 160. The new 3100 V6 was only available with a new 4 speed Automatic transmission. The Quad 4 lost 10 hp (7 kW) in 1994, its last year of production. During all years of production, the 2.3 L Quad 4 was only available with a 5-speed manual transmission. In 1995 the 3100 V6 lost 5 hp for a total of 155, which carried on to the 1996 model as well.


General Motors was sued by Fabbrica d'Armi Pietro Beretta for trademark infringement over the naming of the Beretta. The suit was settled out-of-court in 1989; GM and Berreta exchanged symbolic gifts a Beretta GTU coupe and a pair of Beretta shotguns. GM donated US$500,000 to a Beretta-sponsored charity which was also affiliated with the GM Cancer Research Foundation.

Beretta's sales steadily declined every year of production as the market turned away from two-door models, and in 1996, Chevrolet ended production of both the Beretta and Corsica after 10 model years. While the Corsica would be replaced in 1997 by the Chevrolet Malibu, the Beretta would not be replaced.

Models:

  • 1987-1996 CL/Base
  • 1987-1993 GT
  • 1988-1989 GTU
  • 1990 Indy
  • 1990-1993 GTZ
  • 1994-1996 Z26

>>Chevrolet Bel Air

Chevrolet Bel Air

Chevrolet Bel Air
Chevrolet Bel Air from Universal Studios Orlando
Manufacturer Chevrolet
Parent company General Motors
Production 1953-1975 (U.S.)
1953-1981 (Canada)
Class Full-size
Layout FR layout
1956 Chevrolet Bel Air Interior
1956 Chevrolet Bel Air Interior
1956 Chevrolet Bel Air 2-door sedan
1956 Chevrolet Bel Air 2-door sedan
1957 Chevrolet Bel Air Convertible
1957 Chevrolet Bel Air Convertible

The Chevrolet Bel Air is an automobile series produced by the Chevrolet division of General Motors from 1953–75. From 1950–52, hardtops in Chevrolet's premium Deluxe model range were designated with the Bel Air name, but it was not a distinct series of its own. The Bel Air continued in production in Canada through the 1981 model year.

History

1953–1957

First generation
1956 Chevrolet Bel Air Hardtop
Production 1953-1957
Body style(s) 2-door hardtop
4-door hardtop
2-door convertible
4-door sedan
2-door coupe

In 1953 Chevrolet renamed its series and the Bel Air name was applied to the premium model range. Two lower series, the 150 and 210, also emerged.

The 1953 Chevrolet was advertised as "Entirely New Through and Through," due to the restyled body panels, front and rear ends. However, essentially these Chevys had the same frame and mechanicals as the 1949-52 cars. The Bel Air series featured a wide chrome strip of molding from the rear fender bulge, to the rear bumper. The inside of this stripe was painted a coordinating color with the outside body color, and "Bel Air" scripts were added inside the strip. Lesser models had no model designation anywhere on the car, only having a Chevy crest on the hood and trunk. Bel Air interiors for 1953 had a massive expanse of chrome across the lower part of the dashboard, along with a de luxe Bel Air steering wheel with full chrome horn ring. Carpeting and full wheel covers rounded out Bel Air standard equipment. For '54, the Bel Air stayed essentially the same, except for a revised grille and taillights. During these years, there were two engine choices, depending on the transmission ordered. Both engines were "Blue Flame" inline six cylinder OHV engines. featuring hydraulic valve lifters and aluminum pistons. The 115 hp (86 kW) engine was standard on stickshift models, with solid lifters and splash plus pressure lubrication. Powerglide cars got a 125 hp (93 kW) version which had hydraulic lifters and full pressure lubrication. '54 cars with stick shift got the 1953 Powerglide engine. During 1953-54, Bel Airs could be ordered in convertible, hardtop coupe, 2- and 4-door sedans, and, for 1954, the Beauville station wagon which featured woodgrain trim around the side windows. Power steering was optional for 1953; 1954 added power brakes, power seat positioner and power front windows.

In 1955, Chevrolets gained a V8 engine option. The new 265 cubic-inch V8 featured a modern, overhead valve high-compression, short stroke design that was so good that it remained in production in various forms, for many decades. The base V8 had a two-barrel carburetor and was rated at 162 horsepower (121 kW), and the "Power Pack" option featured a four-barrel carburetor and other upgrades, yielding 180 brake horsepower (130 kW). Later in the year, a "Super Power Pack" option added high compression and a further 15 brake horsepower (11 kW). Most enthusiasts today associate the Bel Air and the V8 together, even though neither was dependent on the other. That year, Chevrolet's full-size model received new styling that earned it the "Hot One" designation by enthusiasts. Unlike Ford and Plymouth, Chevrolet's styling was considered crisp and clean. Bel Airs came with features found on cars in the lower models ranges plus interior carpet, chrome headliner bands on hardtops, chrome spears on front fenders, chrome window moldings, and full wheel covers. Models were further distinguished by the Bel Air name script in gold lettering.

The '55, '57, and especially '56 Bel Airs are among the most recognizable American cars of all time; well-maintained examples (especially Sport Coupes and convertibles) are highly sought after by enthusiasts. Roomy, fuel-efficient, and with tastefully restrained use of tail fins and chrome, they are seen by many as vastly superior to the oversized and overdecorated full-size models that would roll out of Detroit for the next 20 years.

From 1955–57, production of the two-door Nomad station wagon was assigned to the Bel Air series, although its body and trim were unique to that model. Prior to becoming a regular production model, the Nomad first appeared as a Corvette-based concept vehicle in 1954. Chevrolet has since unveiled two concept cars bearing the Nomad name, most recently in 1999. 1956 saw the introduction of the pillarless four-door model, called Sport Sedan and available in both Bel Air and Two-Ten models.

1958: Impala, Bel Air, Biscayne, and Delray

Second generation
1958 Chevrolet Bel Air Sport Sedan
Production 1958-1965
Assembly Arlington, Texas
Oshawa, Ontario, Canada
Body style(s) 4-door sedan
2-door coupe
2-door convertible
4-door station wagon

For 1958, Chevrolet models were redesigned to be broader, longer and heavier than their 1957 predecessors. The Impala now became the premium Chevrolet, followed by the mid-range Bel Air. For the budget conscious, the Biscayne, (formerly the 210) and the Delray (formerly the 150) completed this model years family oriented and utility offerings.

Chevrolet's design for the year fared better than its other GM brethren, and lacked the overabundance of chrome found on Pontiacs, Oldsmobiles, Buicks and Cadillacs. Complementing Chevrolet's front design was a broad grille and quad headlights; the tail received a fan-shaped alcove on both side panels, which housed dual tail lights.

The Bel Air also gained a halo model in 1958, the Impala, available only as a hardtop coupe and convertible in its introductory year. Impala styling followed the basic lines of the other Chevrolet models but received special styling cues including a different roof line, a vent above the rear window, unique side trim, and triple tail lights housed in slightly broader alcoves.

Despite being a recession year, consumers made Chevrolet the No. 1 make of automobile (beating Ford, which held the title in 1957) and the Bel Air was at the core of Chevrolet's popularity. With its wide variety of body styles and models, Bel Airs could be optioned with almost every conceivable luxury within the Chevrolet line. The Nomad station wagon name also reappeared in 1958 when the vehicle bowed as the premium four-door Chevrolet station wagon, lacking the unique styling of the 1955-57 Nomads. Most Chevrolet station wagon models had two tail lights housed in abbreviated alcoves, which were made smaller to accommodate the rear gate. An exception was the Yeoman .

1959–1965: Mid-range model

In 1959, Chevrolet elevated the Impala to top-line status, making the Bel Air the mid-level model. The Biscayne replaced the discontinued Delray as the least expensive full-size Chevrolet model.

From 1960, Bel Airs and Biscaynes could easily be identified by their use of two taillights per side; the Impalas had three taillights per side. Also, the Bel Air had more interior and exterior brightwork than the Biscayne. Many of the same options and accessories that were available on the Impala were also available on the Bel Air.

Of noteworthy importance is the 1962 Bel Air Sport Coupe, the last year a Bel Air hardtop was offered in the USA. This model featured the "bubbletop" roof from '61, and was popular with drag racers, who ordered this car with Chevy's new-for-'61 409 cubic inch "W-block" V8 with up to 409 bhp (305 kW), a special package including aluminum body panels, heater delete, and four-speed manual transmission. A car with this configuration today is a valuable collector vehicle that commands a big premium over other '62 Chevys, including the classy Impala SS.

1966–1975: Low-line model

Third generation
1966 Chevrolet Bel Air Station Wagon
Production 1966-1970
Assembly Arlington, Texas
Oshawa, Ontario, Canada
Body style(s) 4-door sedan
4-door station wagon
2-door coupe
Platform B-body
Related Chevrolet Impala

Buick LeSabre
Pontiac Parisienne
Pontiac Catalina/Laurentian
Pontiac Bonneville

Chevrolet Caprice
Fourth generation
1972 Chevy Bel Air 4 Door Sedan.jpg
Production 1971-1975 (U.S.); 1971-1976 (Canada)
Assembly Arlington, Texas
Oshawa, Ontario, Canada
Body style(s) 4-door sedan
4-door station wagon
2-door coupe
Platform B-body
Transmission(s) 3-speed manual (standard, 1971-1973 on all six-cylinder cars), Turbo-Hydramatic (optional 1971-1973 on six-cylinder cars; standard on V-8 powered cars from mid-1971 onwards)
Related Chevrolet Impala

Buick LeSabre
Pontiac Parisienne
Pontiac Catalina/Laurentian
Pontiac Bonneville

Chevrolet Caprice

By the late 1960s (with the introduction of the Caprice), the Bel Air and its Biscayne stablemate were primarily marketed to automotive fleet customers. However, the Bel Air remained available to private customers who sought a basic, no-frills full-sized car that was slightly better trimmed than the low-line Biscayne. When the Biscayne was discontinued after 1972, the Bel Air was demoted to the low-level model.

A six-cylinder engine and three-speed manual transmission remained standard equipment through the 1973 model year; the automatic transmission had been the sole transmission choice on V-8-powered Bel Airs since the spring of 1971. Only about 1,400 cars were built with the inline six in 1973, and the engine and the outdated stick shift transmission were shelved by the end of the model year. All Bel Airs built in 1974 and 1975 listed a 350 two-barrel V8 engine and Turbo-Hydramatic transmission as standard.

All U.S.-market Bel Airs sold between 1970 and 1975 were four-door sedans or station wagons. However, a Bel Air sport coupe - based on the Impala, but with Bel Air-level trim - was sold in Canada from 1970 to 1975.

Most other changes to the Bel Air during its final years were identical to the more expensive Caprice and Impala lines. For instance, the 1975 models had a new roofline and came with new dashboard, radio and climate control graphics (the speedometer read up to 100 mph (160 km/h), and had smaller numbers for kilometers per hour). In addition, customers could buy their 1975 Bel Air with two new options: an Econominder gauge package (which included a gauge that monitored fuel economy, due in part to growing demands for fuel economy) and intermittent wipers.

The last Bel Airs for the United States were manufactured for 1975.

1976-1981: Bel Airs in Canada

Fifth generation
Production 1977-1981
Assembly Oshawa, Ontario, Canada
Body style(s) 2-door coupe
4-door sedan
4-door station wagon
Platform B-body
Transmission(s) Turbo-Hydramatic
Wheelbase 116 in (2946 mm)
Related Chevrolet Caprice
Chevrolet Impala
Pontiac Safari
Pontiac Bonneville
Pontiac Parisienne
Pontiac Catalina/Laurentian
Oldsmobile 88
Oldsmobile Custom Cruiser
Buick LeSabre
Buick Estate
Cadillac Fleetwood
Cadillac Brougham

Chevrolet's Canadian affiliate continued the Bel Air as its lowest-priced full-size car through the 1981 model year.

2002 Bel Air show car

2002 Bel Air concept car (GM press kit photo)
2002 Bel Air concept car (GM press kit photo)

In 2002, a concept Bel Air convertible was shown at the North American International Auto Show. It featured many styling and design cues from the legendary 1955–57 models, and had tail lights very similar to the Ford Thunderbird. So far, General Motors has shown no interest in producing such a car.

Bel Airs in Popular Culture

Chevrolet Bel Airs have been featured prominently in several films. These include Dr. No (1962), American Graffiti (1973), Two-Lane Blacktop (1971), Thunder and Lightning (1977) and A Perfect World (1993). In the Danish "Olsen_Banden" (The Olsen Gang, 1968-1998) film series, in 13 out of 14 movies, the gang drives an extremely worn and rusty Bel-Air.

Alternative-country group Old 97's have a song called "Bel Air", found on their album Wreck Your Life.

>>Chevrolet Beauville

Chevrolet Beauville

Chevrolet Beauville




Manufacturer General Motors
Also called GMC Rally
Production 1970-1996
Assembly Lordstown, Ohio

Wentzville, Missouri Toronto, Ontario, Canada

Successor Chevrolet Express/GMC Savana
Class Full-size van
Body style(s) 3-door van
Layout FR layout
Engine(s) 4.3L V6
5.7L V8
7.4L V8
6.5L Diesel V8
Transmission(s) 3-speed automatic
4-speed automatic
4-speed manual
Wheelbase SWB: 110.0 in (2794 mm)
LWB: 125.0 in (3175 mm)
3500 LWB: 146.0 in (3708 mm)
Length 1994-96 LWB: 204.1 in (5184 mm)
Rally 3500 LWB: 225.1 in (5718 mm)
SWB: 178.2 in (4526 mm)
1991-93 LWB: 202.2 in (5136 mm)
1991-93 3500HD: 202.6 in (5146 mm)
3500 LWB: 223.2 in (5669 mm)
Beauville 3500 LWB: 225.0 in (5715 mm)
Width 79.5 in (2019 mm)
Height 3500 SWB: 81.8 in (2078 mm)
3500 LWB: 82.3 in (2090 mm)
3500HD: 81.9 in (2080 mm)
2500: 79.1 in (2009 mm)
SWB: 79.4 in (2017 mm)
Pre-1990 G1500 Extended: 79.2 in (2012 mm)
Pre-1990 G2500: 79.5 in (2019 mm)
Curb weight 6600 lb (2994 kg)
Related Chevrolet Van

The Chevrolet Beauville or GMC Rally was originally a station wagon option for the 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air. The name was later resurrected as a full-size van option for the Chevrolet Van in 1970.

1955 Chevrolet Beauville

In 1955 Chevrolet introduced the 4 door Beauville Wagon as an option for the Bel Air line. The Beauville wagon came standard with a 6 cylinder engine or a V8 mated to a manual transmission.

Type of Beauville Number made Standard price
1955 4 door Bel Air Beauville Wagon 24,313 6 cylinder= $2,262 V8= $2,361

1956 Chevrolet Beauville

In 1956 the Beauville became a wagon option for the Chevrolet 210 as well.

Type of Beauville Number made Standard Price Seating capacity
1956 4 door 210 Beauville Wagon 17,988 6 cylinder= $2,348 V8= $2447 9 passengers
1956 4 door Bel Air Beauville Wagon 13,279 6 cylinder= $2,482 V8= $2581 9 passenger

1956 Chevrolet engines

Chevrolet Station wagons offered a wide variety of engines rated from the 140 hp (104 kW) 6 cylinder to the 225 hp (168 kW) V8.

One base engine Chevrolet offered in 1956 was a 235.5 cubic inch 6 cylinder engine with a cast iron block and a compression ratio of 8.0:1. It was carbureted, with a Rochester single barrel carburetor with a peak brake Horsepower of 140 achieved at 4200 RPM. Another base engine offered by chevrolet in 1956 was a 265 cubic inch V8 with a 2 barrel carburetor with peak brake horsepower of 162 at 4400 rpm.

In 1956 two other 265 cubic inch V8s were offered but both had a 9.25:1 compression ratio, 4 barrel carburetors, and a dual exhaust. The Turbo-Fire 225 engine was equipped with 2 Carter 4 barrel carburetors and produced 225 bhp at 5200 rpm while the Turbo-Fire 205 engine had a single 4 barrel carburetor with a peak 205 hp (153 kW) at 4600 rpm.

1957 Chevrolet Beauville

In 1957 the Beauville station wagon was not offered in the Bel Air line, only in the 210.

Type of Beauville Number sold Standard Price Seating capacity
1957 4 door 210 Beauville wagon 21,803 6 cylinder= $2,563 V8= $2663 9 passengers


In 1957 the engines offered by Chevrolet in the 210 Beauville were a 235.5 cubic inch 6 cylinder with 140 hp (104 kW), a 265 cubic inch V8 with 162 hp (121 kW), and a number of 283 cubic inch V8s, the most powerful being the super turbo-fire 283 reached 283 hp (211 kW). The super turbo-fire 283 was a fuel injected engine that was a $550 option back in 1957.

Chevrolet Van Beauville


Chevrolet Beauville
Chevrolet Beauville

The Chevrolet G series Sportvan Beauville was a full size van option produced by Chevrolet between 1970 and 1995.

Since its conception in the tail end of the 1960s, the G series has seen very little change. The majority of those changes have been internal.

Van engines

4.3 liter gasoline V6
  • Horsepower= 165 hp (123 kW) @4000 rpm
  • Torque=235 lb·ft (319 N·m) @2400 rpm
5.7 liter gasoline V8
  • Horsepower= 200 hp (149 kW) @4000 rpm
  • Torque= 310 lb·ft (420 N·m) @2400 rpm
6.2 liter Detroit Diesel compact V8 (1982-1993)
  • Horsepower= 143 hp (107 kW) @ 3,600 rpm
  • Torque=257 lb·ft (348 N·m) @ 2,000 rpm
6.5 liter Detroit Diesel compact V8 (1994-2001)
  • Horsepower=
  • Torque=
7.4 liter gasoline V8
  • Horsepower= 230 hp (172 kW) @4000 rpm
  • Torque= 385 lb·ft (522 N·m) @2400 rpm

The 1995 Chevrolet G20 Beauville Sportvan passenger van came standard with the 4.3 liter V6 with a 9.1 compression ratio, overhead valves, and 2 valve per cylinder configuration.Although the G20 could also have the 5.7 liter V8, it could not have the 7.4 liter V8. The 7.4 liter V8 is exclusive to the G30. The transmission choices were a 4 speed automatic or a five speed manual. Chevrolet also offered, in 1995, a pair of 6.5 liter naturally aspirated diesels.

Recalls

  • November 21, 1994
    • The supplemental inflatable Restraint Caution label and an Engine start label were installed on the same side of the Driver's visor. This is not in accordance with FMVS NO. 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."
      • The consequence of this was that the driver may fail to notice and follow the warning labels.
        • 185 Units affected
  • October 17, 1995
    • The sliding side-door rear latch that was improperly riveted. It is not in accordance with FMVS NO. 206, "Door Locks and Door retention components."
      • If the vehicle is involved in a crash the door will not perform as required by the standard.
        • 936 Affected units
  • May 19, 1999
    • Chevrolet and GMC G Vans with sliding side doors that were remedied between July 18, 1997 and February 6, 1999 were installed with a latch that was improperly riveted.
      • If involved in a crash, the door will not perform up to the standards.
        • 282 Units affected
  • July 19, 1999
    • This was a safety improvement campaign, not a true recall, dealing with certain light duty Pickup trucks, SUVs, or Vans equipped with 3-sensor Antilock Braking system EBC4 Units.
      • On certain surfaces the affected vehicles may experience extended stopping distances when abs is engaged, increasing the risk of a vehicle crash.
        • 2400000 affected vehicles, not all G20s.

Additional information

The NHTSA states on their web site, the safety rating for frontal crash impact to be three stars for both driver and passenger. In this case that means a high likelihood of thigh injury, therefore this is considered a safety concern.

The pronunciation of the Beauville is highly disputed, the majority believe it to be pronounced as Boo-Ville.

Chevrolet Beauville
Chevrolet Beauville

The production of the G series, and the Beauville, stopped in 1995; the replacement van is the Chevrolet Express Van.

>>Chevrolet Beat

Chevrolet Beat


Chevrolet Beat
Manufacturer Chevrolet
Parent company General Motors
Class Subcompact
Body style(s) 3-door hatchback concept car
Layout FWD
Engine(s) 1.2 L turbo
Transmission(s) automatic
Related Chevrolet Groove
Chevrolet Trax
Daewoo Kalos
Daewoo Matiz

The Chevrolet Beat is one of three small car concepts introduced on 4 April 2007 at the 2007 New York International Auto Show . The Beat was built in India, while the Groove and Trax were fabricated at GM's Warren, Michigan, Tech center .

Completely designed by GM Daewoo in South Korea and powered by a 1.2 L turbocharged gasoline engine mated to an automatic transmission, the Beat, Trax and Groove showcases a new style of small car from General Motors.

Derived from the Daewoo/Chevrolet Kalos/Aveo, the Chevrolet Beat, Chevrolet Trax and the Chevrolet Groove provide a vision for future designs in the GM subcompact segment. These three concepts were cast to a vote after their introduction on the website www.vote4chevrolet.com, with the winner the only version considered likely at the time to be made available in the United States.

As of September 9, 2007, the Beat had received the most, nearly 50%, of the more than 1,807,000 votes cast. At the 2007 Los Angeles Auto Show, General Motors announced the Beat will go into production for the world market, although not immediately in the United States . The production car based on the Beat will be assembled in South Korea.

>>Chevrolet Aveo

Chevrolet Aveo

Daewoo Kalos
Manufacturer GM Daewoo, FSO
Parent company General Motors
Production 2003-present
Predecessor Daewoo Lanos
Chevrolet Metro
Pontiac Firefly
Holden Barina (XC)
Class Subcompact
Body style(s) 3-door hatchback
5-door hatchback
4-door sedan
Layout FF layout
Transmission(s) 4-speed automatic

5-speed manual

The Daewoo Kalos is a subcompact automobile manufactured by GM Daewoo (the South Korean subsidiary of General Motors) introduced in 2002 and marketed globally in 120 countries — prominently as the Chevrolet Aveo (ah-VAY-o).

Marketed worldwide under five GM brands and eleven different nameplates, the Kalos vehicles have evolved through two styling generations. The nomenclature of the two generations, T200 and T250, derive from the internal coding used by first Daewoo and then GM Daewoo, during the car's development, and both generations have been built on a dedicated platform sharing three body styles and five engine configurations — and shared with no other vehicles.

The nameplate "Kalos" derives from the Greek word kalos (καλός) for "beautiful".

First generation

T200

T200
T200 sedan shown: Chevrolet Aveo, USA
Also called Chevrolet Aveo
Chevrolet Kalos
Holden Barina (TK)
Pontiac Wave
Suzuki Swift+
GM Daewoo Kalos
Production 2002-2008
Assembly Bupyong, South Korea
Zaporizhia, Ukraine
Shanghai, China
Bogotá, Colombia
Quito, Ecuador
Platform T200
Engine(s) 1.2L, 1.4L, 1.5L, 1.6L I4
Wheelbase 2480 mm (97.6 in)
Length 3880 mm (152.8 in) (hatch)
4235 mm (166.7 in) (sedan)
Width 1670 mm (65.7 in)
Height 1485 mm (58.5 in)
Fuel capacity 45 L (11.9 US gal/9.9 imp gal)
Designer Italdesign Giugiaro

The original Daewoo Kalos is based on a GM Daewoo T200 platform, which replaced the T100 platform of the Daewoo Lanos. Models constructed on this platform debuted in 2002 to South Korea, North America, Europe and most other markets. They were available in all three body styles. Pre-production prototypes were shown at the Geneva Auto Show in April 2002. Manufacture of the Kalos began in early March of 2002 .

Under development before Daewoo's bankruptcy, the Kalos was the company's first new model introduction following its bankruptcy and subsequent takeover by GM.

Conception

Originally designed by Italdesign Giugiaro, the Kalos derives directly from the Kalos Dream concept vehicle presented first at the 2000 Paris Motor Show and then as a further developed concept at the 2001 Frankfurt Motor Show, 2002 Geneva Auto Show, and 2003 at the Geneva Show. (Kalos Dream photos)

During this three-year gestation, Daewoo struggled financially, the ultimate fate of the company and the well-named concept vehicle remaining uncertain. Upon introduction, the initial European models carried an emblem reading "Design Giugiaro."

Referring to his firm's design of the Kalos, Giorgetto Giugiaro said:

The Italdesign Guigiaro T200 sedans and hatchbacks feature a swage line running along the lower body to the rear door, which kinks downward prominently on the hatchback. 5-door hatchbacks also feature a side window in the C/D pillar with a distinctively angled lower edge. Interiors feature a circular motif throughout. US Chevy Aveo, Canadian Suzuki Swift+ and Australian Holden Barina variants featured the same grille with slight differences; European versions and some Latin American versions featured a wider grille with larger slanted headlights.

Design development

Daewoo's now disbanded Worthing Technical Centre in the UK conducted the initial research and platform engineering, with Daewoo's main Technical Center in Bupyong, Incheon, South Korea completing the majority of the later development programme. Daewoo engineers refined the chassis in Britain, on the proving ground at MIRA near Nuneaton, UK.Long-term testing covered nearly 2.2 million kilometers with further testing outside South Korea on test sites in Arjeplog/Sweden, Granada and Idiada/Spain, Kapuskasing/Canada and Beijing/China.

According to an April, 2003 GMDAT press release, Daewoo built 119 prototypes during the Kalos's design and development, crashing 31 for research and data-gathering purposes, and manufacturing 39 pilot production vehicles to verify standards and quality.

Body and packaging

The Kalos vehicles meet subcompact (North America) and supermini or B-segment (per EuroNCAP) size classifications.

All Kalos iterations feature high H-point seating within a relatively narrow, short and high-roofed body that combines a long wheelbase with short front (81 cm) and rear (49 cm, hatchback) overhangs -- to maximize the visibility, interior space and maneuverability relative to the vehicle's footprint. Rear seat H-points are higher in all body types.

Available body styles

  • 5-door hatchback - debuted 2002.
  • 4-door sedan - debuted 2002, updated to T250, June 2006.
  • 3-door hatchback - debuted 2005 (not available all markets).

Cargo volume

Per the German VDA standard, hatchbacks feature cargo space of 735 liters (5-door, rear seat flipped and folded), 175 liters (5-door, rear seat up, parcel shelf in place) -- and a maximum payload of 495 kg (1091 lb). Per EPA cargo volume ratings, Aveo's have cargo volume of 11.7 cf (5-door, rear seat up), 7.1 cf (sedan), and 42cf (5-door, rear seat folded & flipped).

Passenger volume

The EPA volume index for the Aveo calculate an interior volume of 102.7 cf (5-door) and 107.4 cf (sedan) -- giving the Aveo's sub-compact rating, despite meeting the volume criteria for a compact vehicle.

Headroom and theater seating

The Kalos' interior headroom was unmatched in it's class at the time of its introduction. The rear seat of the Kalos has a higher H-point than the front seat, giving the car theater seating

Concept vehicles
  • Aveo Xtreme: Introduced at Auto Shanghai 2005, the Aveo Xtreme featured custom fenders, spoilers and rocker panels, lowered suspension, and a bold green paint scheme. While essentially a styling exercise targeted at young Tuners, the Xtreme included a Pioneer AVHP 6500 AM/FM stereo with CD, DVD and MP3 playback, along with XM Satellite Radio, 7-inch touch screen and a integrated PlayStation 2 game system.
  • Chevrolet Beat, Groove, and Trax: Originally showcased at the 2007 New York International Auto Show[8][9] these three concept vehicles each highlighted a different direction the Kalos platform might develop. At the 2007 Los Angeles Auto Show, General Motors announced the Beat will go into production for the world market, although not immediately in the United States.
  • Aveo, Iron Man Edition: Appearing at the 2007 Auto Shanghai, a radically restyled five-door Chevrolet Aveo was on display at General Motors’ stand. The concept was nameless and featured orange paint, black front and rear cladding and a prominent black stripe from front to back. Windingroad.com's Art Director Nate Luzod labeled this Chevrolet the “Aveo Iron Man Edition”.

Design features

Aerodynamics

  • drag coefficient of 0.35
  • frontal area of 2.16 m²
  • aerodynamic resistance of 0.74 m².

Construction

  • 46% of the Kalos structural components are produced with high-strength steel.
  • The body's sheet metal panel gaps are kept to 3 mm (0.1 in) and all but the roof panel feature galvanized steel.
  • Tailor-welded blanks are used in the production of the vehicle to put strength where needed while saving weight.
  • Front suspension features MacPherson struts with offset coil springs and a stabilizer bar.
  • Rear suspension features a semi-independent torsion beam axle.

Equipment

  • The interior features Isofix child seat anchorages.
  • The T200 features a slot specifically for holding toll tickets in the instrument panel adjacent to the steering wheel.
  • The optional four-speed automatic has a “hold” feature that causes the four speed automatic to behave like a three speed manual: that is, it 'holds' the transmission in the gear which is selected. Useful for engine braking down long grades.
  • Kalos models and their variants are marketed as entry-level vehicles in various trim levels globally with options unusual at entry-level: including AM/FM/CD/MP3 audio, steering wheel mounted radio controls, power locks and windows, remote keyless entry, and heated sideview mirrors and power sunroof.
  • Common equipment includes tilt steering column, six-way adjustable driver seat, rear-window defroster, remote fuel door and a 60/40 split-bench folding rear seat. The instrument panel includes a tachometer, speedometer, odometer, trip odometer, fuel gauge, coolant temperature gauge and lighting dimmer control. The IP also has a center storage tray, lighter, extra 12-volt outlet, digital quartz clock and lighted glove box.

Safety

The Kalos models have been tested in at least four international New Car Assessment Programs, the results reflecting varying equipment and the differences in the tests themselves. Based on market priorities and price point control, some safety equipment is either unavailable or available only as extra-cost options (including side airbags, ABS, foglights and a rear center position three-point seatbelts and headrests.)

Korea: models received four stars for both driver and front-seat passenger in crash tests conducted by the Korean Automobile Test and Research Institute (KATRI).

Europe: models received the following European New Car Assessment Program (Euro NCAP) ratings:

  • Adult Occupant: 3/5 stars, score 17
  • Child Occupant: 3/5 stars, score 26
  • Pedestrian: 2/4 stars, score 11

Australia: Holden Barina models received scored 2 stars (of 5) from ANCAP, a rating that is lower than the previous European-built, Opel-based Barina had scored, and the lowest ANCAP rating since 2004. Notably, the Australian Barina models do not feature the front-seat mounted side airbags offered in other markets (e.g., USA), nor are the ANCAP ratings directly comparable to the ratings of other NCAP programs.

United States: US Aveo models received a IIHS crash offset rating of "acceptable" as well as these NHTSA's New Car Assessment Program (www.safercar.gov) ratings:

  • Passenger: 5/5 stars
  • Driver: 5/5 stars
  • Side Impact Front: 4/5 stars
  • Side Impact Rear: 4/5 stars
  • Rollover Rating: 4/5 stars

US Aveo safety features include available four-channel, four-sensor ABS system with electronic brake force distribution (EBD), and front (dual-stage) and side air bags with a passenger-sensing system. Beginning with 2008, Aveo standard equipment includes a tire pressure monitoring system.

Engines

S-TEC

  • 1.2 L SOHC I4 - South Korea, Europe, India

E-TEC II

  • 1.4 L SOHC I4 - Europe
  • 1.4 L DOHC I4 - Europe, Ecuador, Colombia, Chile, India, Philippines
  • 1.5 L SOHC I4 - South Korea, Europe, South Africa, Philippines
  • 1.6 L SOHC I4 - Ukraine
  • 1.6 L DOHC I4 - North America, Venezuela, Australia, China, India

T250

T250
T250 sedan shown: Pontiac Wave, Canada
Also called Chevrolet Aveo
Chevrolet Lova
Daewoo Gentra X
Holden Barina (TK)
Pontiac G3
Pontiac Wave
Production 2006-present
Assembly Bupyong, South Korea
San Luis Potosí, Mexico
Warsaw, Poland
Zaporizhia, Ukraine
Shanghai, China
Platform T250
Engine(s) 1.2L, 1.4L, 1.5L, 1.6L I4
Wheelbase 2480 mm (97.6 in)
Length Sedan: 4310 mm (169.7 in)
Hatchback: 155.0 in (3937 mm)
Width Sedan: 1710 mm (67.3 in)
Hatchback: 66.1 in (1679 mm)
Height Sedan: 1495 mm (58.9 in)
Hatchback: 59.3 in (1506 mm)
Fuel capacity 45 L (11.9 US gal/9.9 imp gal)

GM introduced a revised sedan at Auto Shanhai 2005, designed in cooperation with PATAC. Bearing the internal code T250 and sold in South Korea as Daewoo Gentra, the revision comprised primarily interior and exterior styling changes, a new interior IP (instrument panel) and minor equipment changes, including increased sound deadening. Incorporation of the radio antenna into the rear glass and extensive wind tunnel testing helped reduce the coefficient of drag from 0.348 to 0.326.

A restyled version of the hatchback with the sedans updated IP (instrument panel) was presented as the Chevrolet Aveo during the Frankfurt Motor Show 2007, to be marketed in Europe and North America. The Korean market received its own distinct restyle of the hatchback, the Gentra X.

Later iterations, including the Kalos, Aveo, Barina and Gentra sedans, the Gentra X hatchback and the 2007 "Frankfurt Show" hatchbacks were styled in-house and with the assistance of PATAC -- and depart notably from the original Giugiaro exterior and interior styling designs.

With launching Gentra X in South Korea, GMDAT had replaced engines of T250. 1.2L S-TEC II engine had updated with features such as double overhead camshaft(DOHC) and timing chain(older version has timing chain) system. 1.6L E-TEC II engine had replaced with ECOTEC(GEN-III) engine with new features such as variable valve timing mechanism.

Awards

  • 'Best Car for the Bucks' from forbes.com
  • 'Inter-American Car of the Year,' Inter-American Federation of Automotive Journalists
  • 'Most Well-Received Small Car,' News Express and Sino Trust
  • 'Most Influential Car of the Year,' China Mainstream Media Association
  • ‘Car of the Year-2006,' Business Standard Motoring
  • NDTV Profit Car India Awards 2007,Small Car of the Year, Chevrolet Aveo U-VA, NDTV Profit, India's leading business news channel, in association with Car India and Bike India.
  • The Aveo sedans and Aveo5 placed 12th and 8th respectively in Consumer Reports 2007 Least satisfying Cars, with 44% of owners expressing inclined to buy again.
  • The Kalos won, twice consecutively (2003 and 2004), the Korea Design Power Index (KDPI) conducted by the Korean Management Association (KMA) and deriving from interviews and an internet polling of 20,000 consumers in Korea's six largest cities.

Global marketing and manufacture

South Korea

The T200 was sold as Daewoo Kalos; the hatchback named 'Kalos V' and the sedan 'Kalos S.' Daewoo began selling the T250 sedan in September 2005 as the Daewoo Gentra, replacing Kalos S. "Gentra" is derived from the English word "gentleman" and "transport(ation)".The tagline in the advertising campaign introducing the Gentra in Korea was "Are you gentle?", and the campaign starred Daniel Henny. In October 2007, the Kalos hatchback adopted the T250 underpinnings and was renamed Gentra X.

North America

2007 Chevrolet Aveo5, USA (T200)
2007 Chevrolet Aveo5, USA (T200)
Pontiac Wave, Canada (T200)
Pontiac Wave, Canada (T200)
2008 Suzuki Swift+, Canada (T200) from the Montreal Auto Show
2008 Suzuki Swift+, Canada (T200) from the Montreal Auto Show

The T200 models were introduced to the US and Canada 2004 models at the 2003 (February) Chicago Auto Show as the Chevrolet Aveo. The US 5-door and 4-door models went on sale in November 2003, and as reported by the Boston Globe in November 2006, "the Aveo (was) the largest-selling subcompact in the United States".

The T250 sedan debuted in January 2006 as the 2007 Chevrolet Aveo at the Greater Los Angeles Auto Show. Sales commenced in North America in August 2006. The Aveo 5-door hatchback has been marketed as the "Aveo5" in Canada since its inception and in the US beginning with model year 2007. The models are sold as Pontiac Wave (4-door and 5-door, since the 2005 model year) and Suzuki Swift+ (5-door) in Canada. The T200 Wave sedan was replaced for the 2007 model year with the T250, coinciding with the release of the 2007 T250 Aveo.

US model year changes

2005: Sidemarker lights change from orange to clear.

2006: Rear Spoiler changes from "hugger" style to pedestal style spoiler with several inches of clearance from body.

2007: Deleted: 4-door SVM equipment group, Aveo5 LT model. New Features: 6-disc in-dash CD player and MP3 playback audio system, restyled 4-Door Model, new neutral interior in clot and leatherette, steering wheel mounted audio controls, aux input jacks on all 4-door and LS radios, sedan instrument panel and door accents in wood appearance, metallic grain appearance or silver appearance trim on LS and LT models, manual lumbar adjuster on driver seat, driver seat armrest, back glass antenna on 4-door models. Changes: power outside mirrors now on both driver and passenger, Aveo 5-Door models are called Aveo5. Available Spring Edition in Maui Blue (metallic), with alloy wheels, power windows, power moonroof, upgraded stereo with auxiliary input, keyless remote access, power door locks, foglamps and interior silver accents.

2009: T250 2008.5 Aveo and sedan, Deleted: 15" 5-spoke aluminum wheels, E-TEC II 1.6L engine, Carbon fiber appearance accents. New: new exterior and interior design, Charcoal Perforated Leatherette seating surfaces, OnStar and standard on all models, available XM Satellite Radio, available Leather-wrapped steering wheel wand shift knob are now included with perforated leatherette seating surface option, Driver Information Center with outside temperature display and fuel economy/driving range function, new 15" 5-spoke aluminum wheels, GM Oil Life Monitoring System , ECOTEC 1.6L DOHC 16-valve 4-cylinder MFI engine with Variable Valve Timing and Dual Continuous Variable Cam Phasing (107 hp @ 6400 rpm, 106 lb-ft of torque @ 3800 rpm), 5-speed manual transmission to include shift indicator light. Changes: New good-better-best packaging strategy labeled as 1LS, 1LT and 2LT. Power Package called Power and Convenience Package, aux input included on all radios, front wipers variable intermittent, front doors, driver and front passenger seatback map pockets on all models, Alternator 95 amps. Deletions, Additions and Changes per GM's public online order guide.

US stop delivery order

In February 2004 GM issued a "stop delivery" order, to investigate five accidents that occurred in a tight time frame just as the Aveo was introduced to the US market. The order was lifted shortly thereafter, after an investigation revealed no connection among the accidents.

US marketing

The Aveo was introduced for its market debut in a 60 second television advertisement that first appeared on New Year's Eve 2003, created by the firm of Campbell-Ewald, directed by Michael Bay and featuring the song Magic Carpet Ride by Steppenwolf. The advertisement was titled "An American Revolution, Car Carrier" and featured six yet to be introduced cars and trucks boarding a car carrier as it traversed the United States -- notably the 103hp Aveo descending the Twin Peaks of San Francisco and making an airborne leap highly reminiscent of Steve McQueen's Ford Mustang in the movie Bullitt — before boarding the car carrier.

Two other fifteen second TV ads also created by the firm of Campbell-Ewald , spotlighted the Aveo: "Pachyderm" showing an elephant, chased down a city street by an Aveo and "Big Little," in which four basketball players enter the car look appear tiny in big seats, highlighting the vehicle's roominess.

Mexico

In Mexico, the T200 is not sold, but the T250 sedan is sold as Pontiac G3. The Automotive News reported in October 2007 that GM would begin producing the Aveo model at the new San Luis Potosí Assembly plant in Mexico (400 km northwest of México City) when the plant is complete in June 2009. This Aveo would also be destined for the United States and Canada as well.

Central and South America

The T200 is sold as Chevrolet Aveo in Ecuador (3-door), Peru (3-door and 5-door), Venezuela, Colombia and Chile (all body styles). The T250 is sold as Chevrolet Aveo in Peru (4-door). A taxi version of the T200 sedan is available in Ecuador.

Western Europe


Until the end of 2004, the T200 was sold as Daewoo Kalos. In early 2005, the Chevrolet brand replaced the Daewoo brand and the Kalos was rebadged the Chevrolet Kalos, coinciding with the introduction of the 3-door. The new T250 sedan is marketed as the Chevrolet Aveo, replacing the Kalos sedan in 2006. A revised hatchback was introduced in the 2007 Frankfurt Motor Show, to go on sale in early 2008 as the Aveo -- replacing the Kalos.

Central and Eastern Europe

The T200 was sold as Chevrolet Aveo from its introduction in 2003. The T250 has replaced the T200 sedan in 2006, retaining the same name. Versions sold in this region had 1.4 L engines, and were available as both five-door hatchback and four-door sedan.

It was announced in November 2007 that FSO in Warsaw, Poland, would begin assembling the Aveo under a joint venture between GM and FSO's owner, the Ukrainian company UkrAVTO. GM plans to produce 70,000 Aveos at FSO during 2008, with production rising to 100,000 in 2009.

Australia and New Zealand

Holden Barina, New Zealand (T200)
Holden Barina, New Zealand (T200)

The T200 model was available as the Daewoo Kalos before Daewoo's Australian operations ceased at the end of 2004 and was absent from the Australian market until re-introduced in December 2005 as the TK Holden Barina (3-door and 5-door). The TK Barina replaced the previous XC Barina, which was an imported and rebadged European Opel Corsa. The T250 sedan was introduced in February 2006, and both the T200 and T250 models are sold together as the Barina lineup. The switch from the Opel-sourced Corsa was criticized, given the Kalos' lower ANCAP safety performance.

Other markets

Indonesia: The T200 is sold as Chevrolet Aveo in Indonesia, Malaysia and the Philippines (5-door only), as well as South Africa and China (5-door and 4-door).

China The T250 sedan is sold as Chevrolet Lova in China.

India The T250 was launched in India in 2006 as Chevrolet Aveo along with the slogan "An Indian Revolution", referencing Chevrolet's An American Revolution ad campaign. The T200 hatchback has been sold in India since December 2006 as the Chevrolet Aveo U-VA. A taxi called Chevytaxi is based on the T200 sedan.

Assembly plants

Most Kalos/Aveos are assembled in the Bupyong plant in South Korea. In Ukraine, Russia and Venezuela, local versions of the Aveo are assembled from knock-down kits or CKD. For the Chinese market, Aveos and Lovas are manufactured by Shanghai GM Dongyue. In India, Aveos are assembled from Halol Plant. Also in Egypt GM assembly plant started in August 2007 producing the Aveo locally in 3 variants.

Beginning in 2009, Chevrolet Aveos will be produced at the new General Motors San Lois Potosi plant located in Mexico. Start of production is targeted at June 2009.