Schumacher Auto Group Presents the Schumacher Garage

2008-03-29T10:53:00.012-04:00

A Memorial
KEEP THIS HUMMER MOVING...

What a difference in attitude to that other mother who lost her son.

CAMP PENDLETON, Calif. ( March 2, 2006)
Karla Comfort received a lot of looks and even some salutes from people when she drove from Benton, Ark., to Camp Pendleton, Calif., in her newly-painted, custom Hummer H3 March 2. The vehicle is adorned with the likeness of her son, 20-year-old Lance Cpl. John M. Holmason, and nine other Marines with F Company, 2nd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division who were all killed by the same improvised explosive device blast in Fallujah, Iraq, in December.

For Karla Comfort, having the vehicle airbrushed with the image of the 10 Marines was a way to pay homage to her hero and his fellow comrades who fell on Iraq's urban battlefield.

"I wanted to let people know (Marines) are doing their jobs honorably, and some of them die," said the 39-year-old from Portland, OR "I don't want people to forget the sacrifices that my son and the other Marines made."

Leading up to her son's death, Karla Comfort had received several letters from him prior to his return. He had been deployed for five months, and Comfort "worried every day he was gone until she got the letters and found out the date he was coming home," she said.

Marines knocked on the front door of her home in Farmington , Mich. , at 3 am

with the dreadful news.

"I let my guard down when I found out he was coming home," she said. "There are times that I still cannot believe it happened. It's very hard to deal with."

Karla Comfort came up with the idea for the rolling memorial when she and her two other sons attended John's funeral in Portland, Ore.

"I saw a Vietnam (War) memorial on a car, and I said to my son Josh, 'we should do something like that for John,' she recalled. "He loved Hummers."

She purchased the vehicle in January and immediately took it to AirbrushGuy & Co. in Benton, Ark., where artist Robert Powell went to work changing the plain black vehicle into a decorative, mobile, art piece.

"I only had the vehicle for two days before we took it in," she joked.

Two hundred and fifty man-hours later, Powell had completed the vehicle. The custom job would have cost $25,000. Out of respect for Karla Comfort's loss and the sacrifices the Marines made, AirbrushGuy & Co. did it for free. Comfort only had to purchase the paint, which cost $3,000.

"I love it," she said. "I'm really impressed with it, and I think John would be happy with the vehicle. He would have a big smile on his face because he loved Hummers."

Karla Comfort gave Powell basic instructions on what to include in the paint job. But in addition to the image of her son in Dress Blues and the faces of the nine other Marines, there were several surprises. "He put a lot more on than I expected," she said "I think my favorite part is the heaven scene."

On the left side of the vehicle, a detail of Marines are depicted carrying their fallen comrades through the clouds to their final resting place. The American flag drapes across the hood, the words, "Semper Fi" crown the front windshield and the spare tire cover carries the same Eagle Globe and Anchor design that her son had tattooed on his back.

"All the support I have been getting is wonderful," she said.

Karla Comfort decided to move back to her hometown of Portland, and making the cross-country trip from Arkansas was a way for her to share her son's story. It's also her way of coping with the loss.

"Along the way I got nothing but positive feedback from people," she said. "What got to me was when people would salute the guys (Marines). It's hard to look at his picture."

"I still cry and try to get used to the idea, but it's hard to grasp the idea that he's really gone."

Let's get this Hummer going around the world,
We won't forget! pass it on.

ALWAYS REMEMBER: "WHAT COMES AROUND GOES AROUND" AND IF YOU FORGET..."IT MAY COME BACK TO BITE YA!"

"In God We Trust"

2008 Hummer H2

2007-12-05T17:31:00.000-05:00

2008 HUMMER H2

All-new interior features refined, premium appointments, all-new instrument panel and all-new, more comfortable seats with a full third row
New standard safety features include new electronic stability control system with rollover mitigation technology, panic brake assist and roof rail head curtain side air bags with rollover sensing system
All-new 6.2L V-8 and six-speed automatic combination delivers more power and efficiency
Towing capacity increased to 8,000 pounds (3,629 kgm)
HUMMER announced the 2008 H2, with a completely redesigned, more refined interior that combines luxury with HUMMER's legendary ruggedness; enhanced safety features and a more powerful engine that is coupled with a new, six-speed automatic transmission. The new powertrain combination improves efficiency when compared with previous models.

"The 2008 HUMMER H2 represents a major step in the evolution of this iconic vehicle," said Martin Walsh, HUMMER general manager. "From performance to comfort to safety and overall refinement, the new H2 lineup delivers more of what customers expect from HUMMER; they will be especially impressed with the new, more refined interior."

HUMMER revealed the 2008 H2 at the New York Auto Show. The powertrain, interior and exterior changes also are included on the H2 SUT. The '08 H2 and H2 SUT go on sale later this year.

The new powertrain combination consists of a 6.2L all-aluminum small-block V-8 engine, rated at 393 horsepower (293 kW)* – an increase of about 20 percent over the previous engine – and a Hydra-Matic 6L80 six-speed automatic transmission. Performance-optimizing engine technologies, such as variable valve timing, and the six-speed's wide gear ratios, including a "tall" overdrive gear, enable the improved performance and efficiency over previous models.

"This is one of those rare instances where enhanced performance is matched with improved efficiency," said Walsh. "More power in the H2 helps make highway maneuvers, such as entering from a freeway on-ramp, feel effortless while simultaneously bolstering towing capability."

All-new, luxury-appointed interior
While drivers will feel the '08 H2's improved performance on the road, they'll appreciate it more while experiencing it in the all-new interior. It features a completely redesigned instrument panel, new seats – including a full third-row seat for two passengers– new door trim panels, new controls, new rear-seat heating/air conditioning system, new rear-seat overhead DVD entertainment system and a new family of premium radios.

"The new interior delivers a refined, premium feel while maintaining HUMMER's trademark ruggedness," said Dennis Burke, interior designer. "Everything from the flushness of the controls to the feel of the materials exudes craftsmanship in the H2's new interior, while the fine details, like leather seat piping, create a consistent, premium interior design style across the entire HUMMER family."

Seats in the H2 have a new, chiseled appearance and offer improved comfort. In fact, HUMMER engineers focused on every detail to improve interior comfort. For example, the front seat safety belts are now mounted to the vehicle's B-pillars rather than to the seats themselves. This change enabled engineers uncompromised comfort tuning for the seats. Front seat safety belt pretensioners are new, too, and are standard.

Complementing the new seats are new door trim panels and an all-new instrument panel and six-gauge instrument cluster that features a more refined appearance and better tolerances. In fact, the new interior is designed with interior gap tolerances of one millimeter or less. Soft-touch materials and new, more tactile controls enhance the feeling of craftsmanship. A new center stack houses the climate controls and a new family of GM radios – including a standard premium Bose audio system and an available surround sound system. The instrument panel also features new vents that enhance heating or cooling comfort throughout the vehicle – particularly for the second- and third-row seats.

Numerous available comfort and convenience features are either new or carried over into the '08 H2, such as a new rear-seat overhead DVD entertainment system, a navigation system, a rear-view camera system and heated windshield washer fluid. OnStar and XM Satellite Radio are standard.

The '08 H2 also offers a remote starting system that enables the vehicle's interior to be heated or cooled prior to driving.

Driving experience
The heart of the '08 H2 is a new, 6.2L V-8 engine that uses variable valve timing technology to maximize performance and fuel efficiency. It is rated at 393 horsepower (293 kW)* and 415 lb.-ft. of torque (574 Nm)*. The engine also features lightweight materials, including an aluminum cylinder block, which helps reduce the vehicle's overall mass.

The 6.2L V-8's technologically advanced features also help it meet new federal emissions standards a year before mandatory implementation.

A new six-speed Hydra-Matic 6L80 RWD electronically controlled automatic transmission backs the 6.2L engine. The six-speed automatic has a wide, 6.04:1 overall ratio – including two overdrive gears – that helps deliver an excellent balance of performance and fuel economy. Also, the 6L80 has a "tap up/tap down" capability that allows the driver to manually select upshifts and downshifts with a button on the column shifter.

The new powertrain combination helps the 2008 H2 and H2 SUT deliver an additional 1,500 pounds (680 kg) in towing capacity – an increase from 6,500 pounds (2,948 kg) to 8,000 pounds (3,629 kg). A host of additional powertrain revisions also contributes to the H2's improved performance and efficiency, including:

Larger-capacity cooling system complements larger, more powerful engine
Electric engine cooling fans reduce "drag" on engine, enabling more horsepower
Regulated voltage control maximizes fuel economy by charging electrical components only when necessary
New LAN electrical architecture is more efficient and uses less electrical energy
Standard 3.73 rear axle ratio
Off-road acumen also was enhanced with the new powertrain system. The 6L80 transmission's tap up/tap down feature provides more control on grades and it offers automatic grade braking. It also improves the off-road crawl ratio to approximately 39:1 – an improvement of about 20 percent.

The transfer case is improved in the '08 H2; it is stronger with improved performance. A new traction control system also is standard, which helps ensure sure-footed traction in most driving conditions.

Driving performance off the road or on is enhanced by a revised steering gear that has a quicker ratio and improved on-center returnability. The driving experience also is quieter and more refined, thanks to new, tuned air intake and exhaust systems.

Safety standard
Complementing the H2 lineup's performance and comfort changes are enhancements to the safety system. They include several new standard features:

Roof rail head curtain side air bags for first-, second- and third-row passengers with rollover sensing system
Safety belt pretensioners (first-row seats)
Electronic stability control system with rollover mitigation technology
New traction control system
Tire pressure monitoring system
Also new is a panic brake assist feature – the first application for a full-size GM truck or SUV – which detects emergency braking situations and maintains maximum brake pressure to help stop the vehicle more quickly and with more control. It is a standard feature on all H2 models. Also, the standard OnStar system now offers the optional Turn-By-Turn navigation system. Additional optional features that contribute to a safer driving experience include HUMMER's Rear Vision System – a rearview camera system – and a navigation system.

Exterior enhancements
All 2008 H2 models are distinguished from previous models with functional changes that maintain HUMMER's instantly recognizable design identify. The iconic, seven-slot grille features larger openings and the lower grille also is enlarged, accommodating the cooling needs of the more powerful 6.2L V-8 engines. The lower bumpers on '08 models are painted silver (previous models had black lower bumpers).

The soul of a HUMMER
While the '08 H2 is offered with a new powertrain and interior, its foundation remains the same: a fully welded ladder-type frame that features a modular, three-piece design incorporating a number of hydroformed components. This design delivers outstanding strength, stiffness and dimensional accuracy.

The H2 has short overhangs for radical approach and departure angles, and exceptional ground clearance for minimal impact on trails. Standard 17-inch wheels, heavy-duty independent front suspension and a five-link rear suspension provide superior handling, carrying and towing capability. The solid rear axle ensures durable sure-footedness, particularly in tight, off-road situations. Also standard is underbody protection and rocker protection. These elements help the H2 deliver on HUMMER's mantra of capability, including traveling through streams 24 inches (508 mm) deep, climbing 16-inch (406-mm) steps and rocks and paddling through deep sand or snow.

A new, four-channel anti-lock braking/traction control system (ABS/TCS) provides optimum control on slippery surfaces. In addition, the ABS can detect and adjust its braking capabilities to rough off-road surfaces like gravel and potholes. The TCS also includes the ability to gain traction through a single wheel, if necessary, and more wheel slip in a second traction control mode for sand and desert racing conditions.

A self-leveling rear air spring suspension system is available for extreme off-road and towing requirements.

H2 SUT – maximum utility and fun
Like the H2, the H2 SUT carries passengers and cargo, but does so with a twist: an open cargo bed enables convenient storage of larger items. When cargo requires more space, a 4-foot by 6-foot (122-cm by 244-cm) pickup bed can be created by powering the rear window into the Midgate, then folding forward the Midgate and rear seat. With four passengers on board, the bulkhead at the rear of the SUT's passenger compartment remains upright, still providing ample cargo-carrying capacity.

Practicality aside, the H2 SUT also offers an open, invigorating driving experience. At the push of a single button, the driver can lower all four side windows and the rear window. Using a separate switch, the standard sunroof can also be opened, giving SUT a truly open-air feeling.

Jetta TDI Preview

2007-11-29T15:39:00.000-05:00

First Drive: 2008 Volkswagen Jetta TDI - Previews

Volkswagen’s 50-state-compliant Jetta TDI will be among the cleanest diesels in the U.S.
BY JARED GALL,
February 2007
Amid the looming hordes of European luxury automakers planning a North American compression-ignition invasion in the next couple years, humble Volkswagen has announced its plans to return the Jetta TDI to the diesel dogpile in the spring of 2008. Powered by a new 2.0-liter four-cylinder making 140 hp and 236 lb-ft of torque, and either a six-speed manual or DSG automated manual transmission, the 2008 Jetta TDI will be cleared for sale in all fifty states.
Some of the earlier diesels to make it to our shores over the next few years will only be available in 45 states; California, Maine, Massachusetts, New York, and Vermont have all adopted stricter emissions regulations for diesels that bar some vehicles from entry. Using technology developed under the BlueTec cooperative formed by Mercedes-Benz and Volkswagen, the Jetta TDI will slip by these stricter regulations without resorting to a urea-based exhaust treatment, as many BlueTec labeled models will.
Nitrogen oxides (NOx) are, along with particulate emissions (soot), the biggest hurdles facing diesels in the U.S. Most BlueTec vehicles will control NOx by injecting a urea-based solution called AdBlue into the exhaust system upstream of a catalytic converter that specifically targets NOx. In that catalytic converter, the ammonia in the urea reacts with the NOx in the exhaust gas and neutralizes it into nitrogen and water.

Volkswagen’s Jetta TDI will manage without a urea injection system by using a NOx-storage catalyst. Like the particulate filters in place on this car as well as other diesels, this catalyst is basically a trap that temporarily holds the offensive emissions. Periodically, the engine will switch to an air-fuel mixture that will burn off the material in the traps.
We had a chance to drive a near-production Jetta TDI and were pleasantly reassured by the transparency of not just the BlueTec technology keeping the car clean, but the diesel engine overall. Horsepower in this new 2.0-liter common-rail diesel engine is up 40 percent over the previous 1.9-liter four-cylinder, with torque up 33 percent. Those figures mean an increase in drivability of about 500 percent. With the previous engine, the best performance we managed to coax from a Jetta TDI was a sluggish 10.3 second 0-60 wheez. The additional power and torque produced by this new, cleaner engine bring that number down to somewhere in the low- to mid-eight second range. Under less aggressive feet, the TDI’s prodigious torque effortlessly whisks the Jetta away from stops and around traffic.

Along with particulate and NOx emissions, BlueTec is rapidly abolishing that characteristic cylinder-full-of-pebbles diesel clatter as well. At idle, the driver has to be paying very close attention to notice that the engine underhood is popping diesel fuel rather than gasoline. Under acceleration, the exhaust sound is a little deeper and boomier than a gasoline Jetta, but not too noticeable to the average sorority member, a demographic that hoards transporter-loads of Jettas here in Ann Arbor. If they’re not used to running a gasoline engine up to redline (truncated in the diesel at just 4500 rpm), the only thing the Tri Delts will notice while driving the TDI is the inordinate number of leering stares they get at the diesel pumps.
Despite the BlueTec partnership, Volkswagen will refrain from using the BlueTec name on the Jetta TDI. Early information suggests that consumers associate BlueTec with Mercedes-Benz and incorrectly assume that a Volkswagen with a BlueTec badge is powered by a Mercedes engine.
Incidentally, to celebrate thirty years of selling diesels in the U.S. Volkswagen is searching for both the oldest and the highest-mileage diesel VWs still running their original engines. If you think your car could be a contender for one (or both) honors, go to www.vw.com starting March 1 to enter your car. VW is expecting at least one to be a 1977 Rabbit diesel. We know a guy who ran one at the 24 Hours of LeMons in October….

H3T Comes in 2008

2007-11-27T11:04:00.001-05:00

It's Official, the H3T is coming In 2008
It has just been announced that the HUMMER H3T Pickup will be at dealers in summer 08.General Motors today confirmed that it will invest approximately $73 million into its Shreveport, La. truck assembly plant to prepare the plant for production of the all-new HUMMER H3T.“GM’s $73-million investment in Shreveport is further proof that the community remains an important part of GM’s manufacturing plan,” said Troy Clarke, GM Group Vice President and GM North America President. “The H3T is unique for HUMMER because it is the brand’s first true pickup. Like every HUMMER model, the H3T delivers capabilities unparalleled in the marketplace and will carve out a new niche in the truck market. I’m happy to say that the men and women of Shreveport will be a big part of this new growth.”Cal Rapson, UAW vice president and director of the GM Department, also voiced strong support for the project."This investment is a testament to the members of UAW Local 2166 for their hard work and commitment to build high quality products," Rapson said. "UAW members at the Shreveport plant are an important part of the team that is bringing this exciting new GM vehicle to the market." Larger than a midsize truck, smaller than a full-size, the H3T delivers attitude, versatility and capability. And more important, with a fully functional truck bed and one of the industry’s broadest range of personalization accessories, the H3T provides a new level of lifestyle functionality to the HUMMER portfolio and will draw new customers into the brand. The H3T is scheduled to arrive in dealerships by third quarter 2008.“I am delighted that GM has once again chosen to increase investments in Louisiana by expanding operations in Shreveport,” Governor Blanco said. “Louisiana looks to partner with companies interested in doing business in our state who will not only positively impact the region’s economy with their activity, but will also provide quality jobs with good benefits to our workers. Thank you for helping us move Louisiana forward.”In the last several years, GM has invested approximately $1.5 billion in the Shreveport facility. This investment along with the plant’s annual payroll of $160 million and annual taxes of $4.5 million, demonstrates that GM will continue to be an economic force in the local community and state of Louisiana for years to come.Shreveport Assembly has built trucks since 1981, beginning with the Chevy S-10. The plant presently produces the HUMMER H3 and Chevy Colorado and GMC Canyon mid-size pickup trucks. Shreveport Assembly employs approximately 2,100 employees. It has just been announced that the HUMMER H3T Pickup will be at dealers in summer 08.

General Motors today confirmed that it will invest approximately $73 million into its Shreveport, La. truck assembly plant to prepare the plant for production of the all-new HUMMER H3T.

“GM’s $73-million investment in Shreveport is further proof that the community remains an important part of GM’s manufacturing plan,” said Troy Clarke, GM Group Vice President and GM North America President. “The H3T is unique for HUMMER because it is the brand’s first true pickup. Like every HUMMER model, the H3T delivers capabilities unparalleled in the marketplace and will carve out a new niche in the truck market. I’m happy to say that the men and women of Shreveport will be a big part of this new growth.”

Cal Rapson, UAW vice president and director of the GM Department, also voiced strong support for the project.

"This investment is a testament to the members of UAW Local 2166 for their hard work and commitment to build high quality products," Rapson said. "UAW members at the Shreveport plant are an important part of the team that is bringing this exciting new GM vehicle to the market."

Larger than a midsize truck, smaller than a full-size, the H3T delivers attitude, versatility and capability. And more important, with a fully functional truck bed and one of the industry’s broadest range of personalization accessories, the H3T provides a new level of lifestyle functionality to the HUMMER portfolio and will draw new customers into the brand. The H3T is scheduled to arrive in dealerships by third quarter 2008.

“I am delighted that GM has once again chosen to increase investments in Louisiana by expanding operations in Shreveport,” Governor Blanco said. “Louisiana looks to partner with companies interested in doing business in our state who will not only positively impact the region’s economy with their activity, but will also provide quality jobs with good benefits to our workers. Thank you for helping us move Louisiana forward.”

In the last several years, GM has invested approximately $1.5 billion in the Shreveport facility. This investment along with the plant’s annual payroll of $160 million and annual taxes of $4.5 million, demonstrates that GM will continue to be an economic force in the local community and state of Louisiana for years to come.
Shreveport Assembly has built trucks since 1981, beginning with the Chevy S-10. The plant presently produces the HUMMER H3 and Chevy Colorado and GMC Canyon mid-size pickup trucks. Shreveport Assembly employs approximately 2,100 employees. -->

Information on the 2008 Yukon Hybrid

2007-11-26T12:12:00.000-05:00

Press Release Follows:

LOS ANGELES – GM today announced pricing for the 2008 Chevrolet Tahoe and GMC Yukon Hybrids, the only full-size, fully capable SUVs whose two-wheel-drive (2WD) models offer the same EPA city fuel economy as a conventional four-cylinder midsize car.Manufacturer's suggested retail prices for the generously equipped Tahoe Hybrid are $50,490 (2WD) and $53,295 (4WD); and $50,945 (2WD); and $53,755 (4WD) for the Yukon Hybrid. Prices include a $900 destination charge and, based on current adjusted EPA fuel economy calculations and pending IRS approval, buyers could be eligible for a federal tax credit."We promised to apply our most advanced technologies to vehicles that can save the most fuel, and we are delivering on that promise with the Tahoe and Yukon Hybrid SUVs," said GM vice chairman Bob Lutz. " The gasoline-only Tahoe and Yukon SUVs already offer best-in-segment fuel economy. Now, consumers can choose GM's patented 2-Mode Hybrid technology that delivers the same city fuel economy as the 2008 Toyota Camry with the base four-cylinder engine. The difference is that the Tahoe and Yukon can seat eight people and can tow up to 6,200 pounds."The Tahoe Hybrid is part of a commitment by Chevrolet, GM's largest brand, to provide customers around the globe with a variety of value-driven fuel solutions that range from gas-friendly to gas-free. The Yukon Hybrid is further evidence of GMC's engineering excellence and innovative technology. Both are among 16 gas-electric hybrid models GM is introducing during the next four years. Despite the added technology, the Tahoe and Yukon Hybrid SUVs are not the highest-priced models within their respective lineups.Two-wheel-drive Tahoe and Yukon Hybrid models deliver EPA fuel economy of 21 mpg in the city, a 50-percent improvement over their 5.3L gasoline-only siblings and comparable to the city fuel economy of the much-smaller 2008 2.4L-equipped Toyota Camry sedan, according to figures obtained from www.fueleconomy.gov. EPA highway fuel economy is 22 mpg. The fuel savings is impressive on 4WD models, too, with the Tahoe and Yukon Hybrids rated at 20 mpg in both city and highway driving. This gives the Tahoe and Yukon Hybrids a driving range of about 525 miles per tank of fuel, or enough for a trip from San Diego to San Francisco.Making this possible is GM's all-new, advanced electrically variable transmission and 300-volt nickel-metal hydride Energy Storage System (ESS), which work in concert with the standard 6.0L V-8 gasoline engine with Active Fuel Management (AFM) and late-intake valve closing (LIVC) technology. GM's new 2-Mode Hybrid system enables the Tahoe and Yukon to launch and drive up to 30 mph on electricity alone and allows the 6.0L V-8 engine to operate in its more economical V-4 mode for longer periods. The Tahoe and Yukon Hybrids also save fuel with aerodynamic aids and reduced-mass components.Along with exceptional fuel economy, the Tahoe and Yukon Hybrids deliver full-size SUV capability – up to 6,200 pounds (2,812 kg) of towing capacity (2WD) and 6,000 pounds (2,722 kg) on 4WD models; 12,000 pounds (5,443 kg) GCWR and eight-passenger seating capacity.From subtle interior touches to functional exterior aerodynamic details, the Tahoe and Yukon Hybrid stand apart from the crowd. Once in the driver's seat it is instantly clear that these vehicles are special - from the unique gauge clusters with distinctive badging to the special tachometer. Even the stylish thin-profile seats, designed to reduce mass for improved fuel savings, also provide a side benefit of increased second-row leg room.These generously equipped, full-size SUVs include heated leather-appointed front bucket seats and leather-appointed second-row bench; driver and passenger power-adjustable seats; navigation radio with rearview camera system; a Bose premium sound system; XM Satellite Radio and the OnStar safety and security system. Other standard features include StabiliTrak electronic stability control; tire pressure monitoring system; a tire inflator kit (in lieu of a spare tire); cruise control; trailering receiver/equipment; two-speed transfer case (4WD); locking differential; 18-inch lightweight polished aluminum wheels and assist steps.On the outside, form follows function with numerous aerodynamic features such as a lowered air dam, shaped running boards and special rear-end treatments. They enhance the vehicles' overall appearance and contribute to their 0.34 drag coefficient. Noise-reduction measures include a new exhaust system and resonator; low-rolling resistance tires; additional engine intake induction tuning; an electrically driven, 300-volt air conditioning compressor and 42-volt variable-assist power steering; and tuning to the Energy Storage System cooling system internal fan.

Internet Shopper's Buying Cycle

2007-11-24T14:55:00.000-05:00

Internet Shoppers typically have a buying cycle of 30 - 90 days. This means that from the time they submit a request for information, the majority are at least 30 days away from actually driving off in their new vehicle!

The interesting thing is that most dealerships (not Schumacher) stop attempting to contact the customer after 7 days. By the time the customer is ready to buy, the typical dealer has forgotten all about them. This causes customers to be frustrated by a lack of responsiveness of the dealership. It also creates internet salespeople who are frustrated over the lack of responsiveness on the part of the customers, who were, afterall, the ones that initiated the process in the first place.

Solution: When submitting an internet request for information, the best idea is to contact the Internet Representative via phone or email within the first week. If you are not ready to purchase yet, that's ok. You can simply let the representative know what information you are looking for, and roughly what you think your time frame will be. From this, you will get the information that you were after in the first place. You may also be surprised by the amount of tools that the dealership has at its disposal to put the deal together in the short term. The car business is one that deals with this month and lets next month take care of itself. There are programs designed to waive payments and get customers into new vehicles quicker. The more flexible you can be on vehicle and timeframe, the better chance you have to get a great deal! The one thing to remember is that an Internet Sales Representative is dealing with hundreds of prospective customers at any given time. If you ask to be taken off of a contact list, you will be taken off. There is no significant risk of being pestered if you are not yet in the market. Simply state your timeframe.

Edmunds Information on the Buick Enclave

2007-11-24T12:05:00.000-05:00

Click link to watch the video:

http://www.edmunds.com/insideline/autoshows/losangeles/2007/2008buickenclave.html

2008 Buick Enclave
See the most recent coverage of the LA Auto Show What is it?2008 Buick EnclaveWhat's special about it?The 2008 Buick Enclave is the first Buick specifically built as a luxury crossover, in contrast to the Rendezvous, which is a crossover cobbled together by plopping a sport-utilitylike body onto a minivan architecture. The result is a contemporary, elegant and cohesive design inside and out. In fact, the production Enclave is virtually identical to the concept version unveiled earlier this year. The Enclave comes with either front- or all-wheel drive. It is outfitted with a new V6 engine with variable valve timing rated at 275 horsepower and 251 pound-feet of torque. It is paired with GM's new six-speed automatic transmission, the first ever six-speed for a Buick. A fully independent, coil spring suspension is used on all models along with standard 18-inch wheels and tires; 19-inch wheels are optional. Meticulously engineered to remain "library quiet," according to Buick, the Enclave employs numerous noise-suppressing technologies. The list includes an acoustic-laminated windshield, laminated safety door glass, triple door seals, flat-blade windshield wipers, strategically placed sound-deadening material and outside rearview mirrors and tires designed to minimize noise. The interior can be configured for seven or eight passengers with plenty of room for luggage or four golf bags. The cargo bay behind the third-row seats has 18.9 cubic feet of space, more than the trunk of the Cadillac DTS. There's also a cargo space beneath the floor. With second-row seats folded, the space expands to 116.2 cubic feet, more than that of the Enclave's prime competitors — the Acura MDX, Audi Q7, Lexus RX 350 and Volvo XC90, Buick claims. The rear seat has what must be the largest, deepest center console in the business.Michael Burton, director of Enclave design, described the midsize crossover as having "a sense of swagger and a sense of romance." Inspired by the cabin of a private jet, the interior has soft curves and appears well crafted. Touches of Tiffany Blue are also used on the instrument panel. Standard safety features cover the gamut: antilock brakes; stability control with rollover mitigation technology; tire-pressure monitoring; traction control; and six airbags — dual front, two seat-mounted front airbags, and side curtain airbags for all three rows, which add a rollover sensor that keeps the airbag inflated longer during a rollover crash. GM's latest OnStar system is standard with turn-by-turn navigation an option. Xenon headlamps are standard with adaptive headlights optional.The Enclave, which shares its new crossover underpinnings with the Saturn Outlook and the GMC Acadia, will be available in CX and CXL trim levels; the main differences are cloth or leather upholstery and tire size. Eight exterior and three interior colors will be offered. The Enclave goes on sale early next summer although no prices have been announced.What's Edmunds' take?This is an attractive, contemporary and practical Buick that should attract buyers other than blue hairs — if they can get past Buick's image as a nameplate for older drivers. — Michelle Krebs