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Should I Buy a Chevy or GMC?

When you're browsing our inventory of Chevrolet and GMC SUVs and trucks at Koons Clarksville Chevrolet GMC, you're sure to notice that some of the vehicles from the two brands are very similar. You might ask yourself, “Should I buy a Chevy or GMC?” Well, both brands are owned by General Motors and offer superb quality, capability, and reliability, so you can't go wrong with either. Let's take a brief look at the history of the brands and what sets them apart.

How Chevy and GMC Began

Chevy and GMC have been inextricably linked since the early days of the American automobile industry. The General Motors Company was founded in 1908 by William C. Durant, but by 1910, Durant was forced out of the company. He subsequently co-founded the Chevrolet Motor Company in 1911. The same year, General Motors formed the General Motors Truck Company, which in 1912 became known as GMC Trucks.

Chevrolet became so successful that Durant was able to regain a controlling interest in General Motors, and in 1918 Chevrolet was incorporated into GM. Over the years, Chevy introduced many engineering and design concepts and quickly grew to be one of America's best-selling brands.

GMC went through several incarnations and was mainly involved in the production of commercial trucks and buses. In 1996, General Motors merged GMC Trucks with Pontiac Motors, and GMC expanded its lineup to include SUVs alongside its pickup trucks. Today, GM's automobile brand portfolio consists of Chevrolet, GMC and Cadillac.

Chevy and GMC Platform Sharing

In today's automobile industry, many carmakers collaborate with other manufacturers to create different vehicles based on the same platform. With a shared chassis and components, automakers can greatly reduce development and production costs while maintaining their brand identity.

General Motors was one of the first car companies to implement platform sharing, using a single chassis for models from Chevrolet, Pontiac, and Oldsmobile. Platform sharing between Chevrolet and GMC goes all the way back to 1920 when GMC built a light-duty truck on a Chevy car chassis.

Today, the Chevy Colorado and GMC Canyon midsize trucks share a platform, as do the Chevy Silverado and GMC Sierra full size trucks, along with the Silverado HD and Sierra HD. As for SUVs, the small Chevy Equinox and GMC Terrain, and the midsize three-row Chevy Traverse and GMC Acadia utilize shared platforms. The same goes for the full-size Chevy Tahoe and GMC Yukon, and the Chevy Suburban and GMC Yukon XL.

So, What's the Difference Between Chevy and GMC Vehicles?

While several Chevrolet and GMC vehicles might share a platform, they are still very different brands which are marketed to different demographics. For example, Chevy trucks are aimed more at mass market buyers and recreational truck users, while GMC trucks are targeted at luxury vehicle buyers.

GMC trucks and SUVs are priced relatively higher than their Chevy counterparts, but they offer better quality materials and come with more standard equipment and premium features. Most of GMC's truck and SUV sales come from its luxurious off-road AT4 and high-end Denali trim levels. That's not to say that Chevrolet doesn't offer off-road capable and high-end models. Depending on the vehicle, you can opt for the luxury High Country trim or vehicles designed to tackle the toughest trails like the Silverado Trail Boss variants or the Suburban Z71.

GMC AT4 and Denali

All GMC trucks and SUVs are now available in the off-road specialized AT4 and prestigious Denali trim levels, which have almost become sub-brands in their own right. But what do these trims have to offer?

AT4 models come standard with all-wheel drive and unique, rugged styling inside and out. Depending on the model, you'll find features such as a black chrome grille, black wheels and trim, red recovery hooks, underbody skid plates, hill descent control, and a traction select system. Inside, the distinctive details include leather upholstery, AT4 embroidered head restraints, brushed aluminum accents, and stylish AT4 sill plates.

The GMC Denali range of vehicles represents the pinnacle of luxurious motoring. These models create a dynamic impression with their bold exterior styling. Each model offers a signature Denali chrome grille, bright aluminum wheels, elegant chrome details, and an iconic lighting signature. The interior is crafted from the finest materials with supple leather upholstery, unique trims and stitching, and real aluminum accents.

Chevy High Country

Chevrolet buyers can also go for a luxurious option with the High Country trim level. The Suburban High Country, for example, gives you elegant perforated leather upholstery, heated and ventilated 12-way power-adjustable front seats, heated second-row seats, power-release second-row captain's chairs, tri-zone automatic climate control, an 8-inch driver information center, a head-up display, a surround view camera system, and a Bose 10-speaker surround sound system. You also get an extensive list of driver assistance features.

Current Chevy and GMC Models

Chevrolet currently produces the Trax, Equinox, Blazer, Tahoe, and Suburban SUVs. For cars, you can choose from the quirky Spark hatchback, the elegant Malibu sedan, the Bolt electric vehicle, and the new Bolt electric utility vehicle. If it's a sports coupe or convertible you want, you can opt for the legendary Camaro or the amazing Corvette Stingray. And Chevy also offers some of the most powerful and capable trucks with the Colorado, Silverado, and Silverado HD.

GMC's SUVs are the Terrain, Acadia, and Yukon, while they also make the Canyon, Sierra, and Sierra HD trucks. Arriving in the fall of 2021 are the stunning all-electric GMC Hummer EV pickup and GMC Hummer EV SUV, both of which bring a whole new element of power and off-road capability to the electric vehicle market. Ultimately, choosing between a Chevy or GMC SUV or truck comes down to your personal preference and your budget. 

Koons of Clarksville Has Your Perfect Car

At Koons Clarksville Chevrolet GMC, we have an extensive inventory of cars, trucks, and SUVs, so make us your first stop today in your search for a new vehicle. We can also offer you the best price when you sell us your current car. Our dealership is conveniently located at 12421 Auto Drive, Clarksville, Maryland. Alternatively, contact us by phone or via the website to arrange a test drive of your choice of vehicle.

Image via Unsplash by @ethancurrier
Image via Unsplash by @bradkillen

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How Much Can the GMC Yukon Tow?

The 2023 GMC Yukon is a full-size SUV with the power and capability to haul cargo onboard the vehicle and via a towing and trailering system. As an SUV, its towing capacities are important because you and many other drivers may need a vehicle to haul trailers and other heavy payloads. If you're looking for a rugged SUV with the power to haul some of the heaviest loads then the 2023 GMC Yukon may be the SUV for you. Keep reading to learn about how much the Yukon can tow. Trim Levels The 2023 GMC Yukon comes in five trim levels and the performance packages, specifically the powertrain of each vehicle, can affect how much the Yukon can tow. The trim levels are SLE, SLT, AT4, Denali, and Denali Ultimate. Along with the difference in towing capacities, the higher the trim level of the Yukon the more luxury features you get on the exterior and interior of the SUV. For example, the Denali Ultimate comes with the option for a better towing package and transmission to support this additional package, which can further increase its towing capacity. Engines The trim levels also affect the availability of engines for the GMC Yukon. When you choose your trim level, you may get the option between three possible engines. The performance capabilities of each engine are below: 3.0-Liter Duramax Turbodiesel The 3.0-liter Duramax turbodiesel engine comes as an optional engine for each of the trim levels. This engine can output a maximum hp of 277 at 3,750 rpm and 460 lb-ft of torque at 1,500 rpm. As a powerful engine using diesel fuel, this engine can have an advantage over others when you're towing heavy loads. 5.3-Liter V-8 The 5.2-liter V-8 engine comes standard on the SLE, SLT, and AT4 trim levels of the vehicle and is optional on the Denali and Denali Ultimate. This engine can output 355 hp at 5,600 rpm and 383 lb-ft of torque at 4,100 rpm. 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It offers the following equipment and technology to help while you're towing: Hitch guidance with hitch view to help you attach the hitch of the Yukon to trailers. In-vehicle trailering app to help you monitor and tow the trailer more effectively. Trailer blind zone alert system to help you monitor your trailer while driving, though it isn't available on the Yukon SLE. GMC also offers the Enhance Trailering Technology package, which is available on the AT4, Denali, and Denali Ultimate trim levels. It offers the following technology: Trailer camera provisions to help you monitor the trailer and towing via cameras. Trailering assist guidelines to improve your ability to attach trailers to your GMC Yukon. Auxiliary trailer camera to install and help you monitor your trailer more effectively. Towing Capacity The total towing capacity of the 2023 GMC Yukon can vary based on the powertrain of the vehicle, which is affected by the trim levels, performance packages, and the other options you can select when you get a new 2023 GMC Yukon. All 2023 Yukon trim levels come with basic towing and trailering including basic towing equipment and trailer sway control. All of the values are based on having the correct towing equipment. Below are the towing capacities for each trim level of the vehicle: SLE The SLE is the base model of the 2023 GMC Yukon and it has a GVWR of 7,400 pounds. While this is a relatively low GVWR, the SLE doesn't have the performance packages and additional equipment and power to tow particularly heavy loads. Even so, this is an impressive value for a base model of trucks and SUVs. The SLE does have access to a package and set up to give it an additional 100 pounds, for a total GVWR of 7,500 pounds. SLT The SLT has similar systems to the SLE and as such also has a GVWR of 7,400 pounds. For this version, it's still a powerful towing and cargo capacity. Like the SLE and AT4, it's important to have the right equipment for the trailer and cargo you want to haul. The SLT also has an available package to haul 7,500 pounds. AT4 Starting with the AT4 trim level, the standard towing capacity of the vehicle increases to a GVWR of 7,500 pounds. It comes with the standard equipment to increase the GVWR such as a more powerful engine and access to better packages for towing and trailering. Denali The Denali comes with more interior features to improve comfort and luxury but its standard setup decreases the GVWR back to 7,400 pounds. With access to the optional towing and trailering features, it can increase its capacity to 7,500 pounds, which is an improvement over its base but makes it comparable to the AT4. Denali Ultimate The Denali Ultimate trim level comes with the highest GVWR of the trim levels at an impressive 7,700 pounds. Since it has both optional packages standard, it comes as no surprise that it's the most powerful trim level for the 2023 GMC Yukon. Now that you've learned the answer to, "how much can the Yukon tow?" you're ready to explore your options for new vehicles at Koons Clarksville Chevrolet GMC. While you're there, you can explore an inventory of pre-owned vehicles and options for financing your next vehicle purchase. Contact us today to learn more.

Get To Know the 2023 Chevrolet Tahoe

Buying or leasing a new car can be a long process, especially near the beginning, when you're still researching models and narrowing down your options. If you're in the market for a full-size SUV, the new 2023 Chevrolet Tahoe may be a worthwhile option. With powerful engine options, a vast list of standard tech and comfort features, and impressive on and off-road performance, the Tahoe has something for every car buyer. That's why our dedicated team here at Koons Clarksville Chevrolet GMC in Clarksville, Maryland has put together this article detailing the interior features of the 2023 Chevrolet Tahoe, including its comfort and convenience amenities, technology and entertainment features, and performance and efficiency abilities. With this guide, you can feel confident that you're learning everything there is to know about the all-new Tahoe to decide if the SUV is right for your lifestyle. 2023 Chevrolet Tahoe Interior Features Here's a breakdown of the 2023 Chevrolet Tahoe, including its trim levels, comfort and convenience features, spaciousness, and entertainment systems: Trim Levels The 2023 Chevy Tahoe is available in six trim levels: the entry-level LS, LT, RST, Z71, Premier, and High Country. Each of these trims has its own unique combination of interior, exterior, and performance features. Prices also increase across trim levels, with higher-priced vehicles offering more features and strength and packages available across all trims, giving buyers the ability to customize their vehicles even more. Seating The 2023 Tahoe comes with ample seating room for multiple passengers across all its trims. The LS, LT, RST, and Z71 trims come standard with seating for eight people in total. In comparison, the Premier and High Country models have seating for seven people, with the second row having two captain's chairs as opposed to a standard seating row. Cargo Space The 2023 Tahoe has plenty of cargo space, making it an ideal SUV for those looking to transport items. With all three rows upright, the Tahoe has a cargo space of 25.5 cubic feet, increasing to 72.6 cubic feet with the second row folded down. With both the second and third rows folded down, the Tahoe's interior cargo space increases drastically, with a total cargo volume of 122.9 cubic feet. Interior Styling All models of the 2023 Tahoe come standard with carpeted floor covering and floor mats, along with driver and front passenger visors and illuminated mirrors. Other standard interior design includes Premium cloth seat trim in Jet Black or Gideon/Very Dark Atmosphere, with perforated leather seats available for higher trims in Jet Black and Jet Black/Mocha. 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With such an impressive array of interior and tech features, it's no wonder why the Chevrolet Tahoe is one of the most popular SUVs on the market, and the 2023 model is no different. Whether you're looking for a vehicle with ample technology capabilities, interior comforts, or extensive cargo space, the 2023 Tahoe has you covered. Want to learn more about new Chevrolet models for 2023? Interested in seeing them in person and scheduling a test drive? Contact us today at Koons Clarksville Chevrolet GMC and a member of our team would be more than happy to assist you with all your car-buying needs. Image via Chevy

2023 Chevy Colorado Off-Road Capabilities

If you want to take your vehicle off-road, you need to make sure it’s up for the challenge. You can’t just take any vehicle off-road, as this could easily lead to damage to the vehicle, injuries to the people inside, or getting stuck. For those of you looking for a pickup truck that can handle tougher terrain, one great option to consider is the new 2023 Chevrolet Colorado. This model features everything you’d want in an off-road vehicle while still being a joy to drive in all other situations. Below, we’ll explain what makes the 2023 Chevrolet Colorado such a great off-roading vehicle. What To Look For in an Off-Road Vehicle There are several factors you’ll want to look at when considering how capable a vehicle is off-road. These factors include: Vehicle Tires One of the easiest things to look at is the tires. There are many different kinds of tires, with some performing better on slippery roads, some built for speed, and others designed to handle rough terrain. When shopping for a vehicle, you should try to find one that comes with all-terrain tires, as these will give you the best grip when going off-road. While you could always add off-road tires after purchasing a vehicle, getting them included is a great way to save money and save yourself some time. All-Wheel Drive Having all-wheel drive is a necessity whenever you’re looking for a vehicle that can go off-road. With an all-wheel-drive powertrain, the engine delivers power to each wheel. This gives it more control when navigating tough terrain. It’ll be much harder to get stuck in a vehicle with all-wheel drive as opposed to front-wheel drive. Many trucks and SUVs now come with all-wheel drive, although in some cases, it’s an optional upgrade. Make sure whatever model you select comes with all-wheel drive for the best off-roading capabilities. Vehicle Suspension A vehicle’s suspension determines how comfortable the driving experience is when going off-road. 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The next time you go off-roading, you won’t have to stress about bringing the elements inside, as the interior of the truck is designed with this in mind. The 2023 Chevrolet Colorado also allows drivers to easily switch between four different drive modes, one of which is designed for off-roading. This means you can quickly optimize the driving experience when you go off-road, then switch back when you return to the main roads. Finally, the 2023 Chevrolet Colorado features 10 exterior cameras so that you can easily see what’s around your truck, which is especially useful when you’re off the beaten trail. Which 2023 Chevrolet Colorado Trim Is Best for Off-Roading? There are several trim options available for the 2023 Chevrolet Colorado, some of which are better for off-roading than others. If you want the best off-roading experience, you’ll want to take a look at the 2023 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2. The ZR2 comes with an additional 3 inches of suspension to better protect the underside of the vehicle. On top of that, the ZR2 comes in a wider stance, which not only gives you more room inside but also helps to stabilize the vehicle as you’re driving. For a more affordable option, check out the 2023 Chevrolet Colorado Trail Boss. This model also features a wider stance, but it only has 2 extra inches of suspension instead of 3. The torque is also a little less on the Trail Boss compared to the ZR2, but the horsepower remains the same. The Trail Boss model is a great way to save some money on the 2023 Chevrolet Colorado without sacrificing too much in terms of off-roading capabilities. Learn More About the 2023 Chevrolet Colorado in Clarksville As you can see, the 2023 Chevrolet Colorado features basically everything you’d want in an off-road vehicle. With this truck, you can easily tackle the toughest terrain while still having a truck that’s useful for all your other situations. To learn more about the 2023 Chevrolet Colorado, please contact Koons Chevrolet GMC in Clarksville, Maryland, today. Our sales team would be happy to answer any questions you may have about the Chevrolet Colorado’s off-roading capabilities or to set you up with a test drive. Be sure to also check out our latest new vehicle incentives for more ways to save. Image by Drew Lindsley is licensed with Unsplash License