Too Cool for Carpool? Think Again!

Paris, Kentucky, is an old town. The post office – originally named Bourbonton – was the first in the young state’s history when it opened in 1794. In the 200 years since, this small town has been central to Kentucky culture and is the seat of Bourbon County, famous around the world for its historical ties to bourbon and equine culture. A living history steeped in tradition and made vibrant through enthusiastic engagement with our past is what makes this small town special, and we’ve been proud to operate here for over 64 years, representing a brand that shares those values. We think that’s key to how we’ve won 5 consecutive Consumer Satisfaction and Dealer of the Year awards from Dealer Rater as the best Chevy Dealer in the Lexington, KY, area! In the Lexington region, we love the way that modern developments acknowledge and appreciate their heritage. The decades-long restoration and renovation efforts in downtown Paris are a great example of exactly that. So, to honor that tradition, we’d like to take some time to reflect on our heritage and how Chevy pays homage to that today. To do that, we’ll look back on a nameplate that we’ve sold every year since opening in 1956 and see what has, and has not, changed in all those years for the Chevy Suburban. The Fourth-Gen Suburban The Chevy Suburban was America’s first sport utility vehicle and was already in the 4th generation of design and production by 1956. Gone were the fender flares ubiquitous to the ’30s and '40s – instead, the wider interior allowed increased personal space for the passengers. A distinctive wrap-around windshield improved visibility by pulling the A-pillars away from the driver’s focal point, and a flattened hood heralded a styling cue that persists to this day. The body style of the ’56 Suburban is described as a “2-door carryall”. It’s hard to imagine in today's market, but in the ’50s, SUVs and trucks alike only featured driver and front passenger doors. So everyone would have to pile in through the front – or through the rear panel door/tailgate in the case of Suburban. A “carryall” was a design akin to a panel truck that had been fitted to accommodate passengers by equipping rear windows and foldable seats – not limited to exclusively transporting cargo or passengers; such designs could “carry all,” hence the name. In fact, the 1st gen model went by the name “Carryall Suburban”! On the inside, the 1956 Suburban is predictably low on features but full on style. The dashboard is smooth, glossy, and rounded in classic 50’s fashion and adorned only by simple radio and climate control devices. You’ll find no leather seating or center console, and some drivers might be surprised by the presence of a third pedal by their left foot. Most, but not all, ’56 Suburbans naturally came with a manual transmission, a feature that was in production until the ’90s. A V-shaped speedometer dominates the space behind the steering wheel, reflecting the passenger car design of the day and the family-oriented nature of the Suburban, and perhaps serving as a subtle reminder of the V8 engine under the hood. The ’56 Suburban represented a departure from previous generations, which featured inline 6-cylinder engines; the 4th gen was the first to feature a V8. The first generation of Chevy’s small block 4.3L V8 was made for the Corvette and was good for 145 hp for the heavy, unwieldy Suburban with rear-wheel drive. The update produced 20 hp more than the outgoing I-6, representing a huge improvement for the time, but it’s hard to imagine a full-size SUV with such a low-powered engine today! Lastly, the ’56 Suburban was rear-wheel drive only, but factory-installed all-wheel drive was on the horizon (1957), and drivers who desired it could retrofit a NAPCO AWD kit in an afternoon for $995. The Twelfth-Gen Suburban The 64 years that have passed since then have seen seven more iterations of Suburban design come and go; the all-new 2021 Chevy Suburban represents the beginning of the 12th generation of production. It’s one of the biggest Chevy news stories of the year, literally, with a maximum cargo capacity well over 140 cu.ft. (nearly 20% more than the 2020 Suburban) thanks to a new independent multilink rear suspension and an efficiently re-configured interior design. The wrap-around windshield is gone – it was only around until 1966 – and the current hood design strikes a balance between the truly flat designs of the ’60s and ’70s and the sloped designs of the ’00s and '10s. The grille is elevated, and significant ground clearance signals that the huge SUV is ready for off-roading excursions, making it much more than a humble carryall. Keen-eyed observers will note the presence of 4 doors (a third, and eventually fourth, door evolved into the design during the Nixon era), making back seat access substantially easier. In fact, a lot of design updates that occurred over the years make the back half of a Suburban a substantially nicer place to be than in years past. Improved use of space has increased leg and headroom for the 2nd and 3rd rows, for one. For another, the available pair of 12.6” rear entertainment system screens make the back a veritable movie theater, capable of operating together or independently and with controls to communicate to the front row. Up front, the modern Suburban is unrecognizable from its distant predecessors. Today’s dashboards aren’t glossy plastic or steel but instead are covered in soft-touch matte vinyl with leather, chrome, and wood accents. Smooth, round designs gave way to sweeping angular ones, and the center stack is dominated by controls that '50s-era engineers could only dream of. Multi-zone climate control with automatic adjustment functions. Media control buttons and a 10” touch screen for radio, MP3, Bluetooth, Apple/Android smartphones, and more. Buttons that, when pressed, heat or even cool the front seats. You even have buttons that put the car in gear (yes, buttons) instead of a shift lever. The driver finds music, phone, and cruise controls on the steering wheel. Behind the wheel, a round speedometer and tachometer gauges frame a large information display telling the driver details like range, efficiency, and more. On their left hand, controls for the universally optional four-wheel drive system and integrated trailer brake controller allow the driver to optimize vehicle behavior for any conditions. The 2021 Suburban still comes with a V8 engine after all these years, but the new one is a larger 5.3L that generates 355 hp, more than twice as much as in ’56. Buyers aren’t limited to only one option, though. Advanced manufacturing techniques have made it feasible to offer multiple powertrain options for popular vehicles, and the 2021 Suburban offers three. An even larger V8, displacing 6.2L, puts out a best-in-class 420 hp and 460 lb-ft of torque for a more athletic, responsive ride. Either block can tow at least 7,900 lbs, ample capacity for large camping trailers. Lastly, an all-new 3.0L Duramax turbodiesel option delivers unprecedented fuel efficiency and ample low-end torque to a segment that’s been longing for a diesel engine option for years. A Revitalized Suburban for a Revitalized America We’ve been selling and servicing Chevy vehicles near Lexington, KY, for a long time. We’ve watched our small home town of Paris come to life as people have vigorously restored old sites to their former glory with a modern twist, using the past as inspiration for the present and using the present to pay homage to the past. The 2021 Chevy Suburban, which is all-new for the 12th time in its unparalleled 85-year production run, does the same. A name and styling cues that can trace their roots to the ’50s. Modern features and interior design that impart the same sense of advancement and luxury that the first “carryall” trucks did in their day. Ongoing innovation, like a more spacious interior, a more comfortable suspension, and a more efficient engine, makes every new Suburban better than the last. The Chevy Suburban, just like the region surrounding Lexington, not only has a long, long history – it has a blindingly bright future, too. If you want to experience the history of the Suburban yourself, visit us to test out the latest Chevy Suburban model.

Buick vehicles are built with a certain quality that very few manufacturers possess. Each model that the venerable manufacturer produces will have a rather strong emphasis on luxury. However, unlike a wide range of luxury vehicles on the road today, Buick has shown consistent proof that luxury and reliability can coincide with one another. One of the best examples is the midsize Buick Enclave SUV. Originally released for 2008, this SUV has received numerous enhancements over the past decade to cater to the market’s constant innovation and has historically been praised by fans and critics alike. This year, the 2021 Buick Enclave continues the lineup’s success, and the experience as a whole is better than ever. If you’re looking for the best Buick dealer in Lexington, KY, then visit Dan Cummins Chevrolet Buick to get your next vehicle today. Among our fine selection, you’ll find a plethora of fan-favorite vehicles along with new arrivals, such as the 2021 Buick Enclave. Available Trims Much like last year’s Enclave, the arrangement of trims is made up of four distinct options. All of the trims for the 2021 Enclave are derived from last year’s model, which means the base trim is still known as Preferred. Upon closer inspection, the additions that have been made this year are fairly subtle, and the vehicle resembles much of last year’s model, which was well-received. Even when opting for this base level trim, the Enclave includes a robust feature set that competes with some of the industry’s best offerings, along with a sleek exterior fitted with 18-inch wheels. Preferred is then followed by Essence, a trim that takes everything great about the base model and enhances it with a leather interior and a few additional safety features. For those looking for a premium experience, you can get it with the next trim, which is aptly named Premium. This trim replaces the traditional seats with new ones that have heating and ventilation capabilities built-in. To boost the appeal of these seats further, they will even massage your back, which few drivers are likely to complain about. For the absolute pinnacle of luxury, the Avenir serves as the highest-tier trim on the Enclave’s lineup. Take everything incredible about the aforementioned trims and add amenities such as wireless charging and onboard turn-by-turn directions. A vast majority of components are upgraded with this trim, such as an increase in wheel size to a massive 20-inch set and the addition of a moonroof to top it all off. Driving around Lexington, KY, in any of these Enclave models is a real treat that will change the way you experience roads like Route 75. No matter which of the four available trims you purchase, the 2021 Buick Enclave should be your next vehicle. One Engine is All You Need Something that many drivers will appreciate about the Enclave is the engine that comes standard on all four trims. Buick has made the right choice in this regard as it creates a whole new layer of appeal for the base Preferred model. While doing this, the upgraded trims also become more appealing to the shopper as the higher price will go towards additional luxury features. As there is only one engine in this lineup, the engineers at Buick have thoroughly considered the proper amount of power the engine should produce to make the Enclave’s lineup appealing as a whole. The engine in question is the same 3.6L V6 from last year that produces 310 hp and 266 lb-ft of torque. Also standard regardless of the trim you have chosen is a modern 9-speed automatic transmission. Not only does this V6 provide ample power to the Enclave, but it’s also quite fuel-efficient compared to some of its contemporaries. The EPA-estimated ratings that you’ll achieve with the 2021 Enclave will differ between FWD and AWD models, although the difference isn’t substantial enough to worry much about. While opting for an FWD configuration, you’ll get fuel-efficiency ratings of 18 MPG city and 26 MPG highway. As mentioned, these numbers aren’t too dissimilar from the 17 MPG city and 25 MPG highway you’ll get with AWD. With this engine equipped, your daily travel will be enjoyable, and you can even tow upwards of 5,000 lbs with a properly equipped Enclave. Should you not opt for the additional package needed to achieve this level of towing, the standalone experience with this engine can still tow up to 1,500 lbs. To make the driving experience even better on the Enclave, each trim receives StabiliTrak, which essentially grants greater traction control and overall stability. Features such as these are immensely helpful should you ever have to take your Enclave off the beaten path or run into inclement weather. Available Safety Features In efforts to become a serious contender in the SUV market nowadays, manufacturers have to equip their lineups with the latest safety features. Safety features are constantly being innovated upon and are some of the more significant changes seen in recent times. With the 2021 Enclave, your vehicle can be equipped with safety features such as HD Surround Vision. This feature works in tandem with the included 8-inch infotainment center and utilizes an array of cameras to essentially stitch together a dynamic bird’s eye view of your vehicle. As you can imagine, a feature such as this is perfect for moments such as trailer alignment for towing or even for simpler tasks like parking your vehicle. Another immensely helpful safety feature is rear cross-traffic alert. Of course, it’s important to stay vigilant at all times when reversing your vehicle. However, mistakes can happen, and because of this, having a rear cross-traffic alert integrated into your vehicle can help prevent accidents with both visual and audio alerts. The Enclave is fitted with even more alerts like these, such as a lane departure warning, which will alert you should you begin drifting out of your lane. Lane departure warning is coupled with lane keep assist, a helpful feature that will provide slight steering input to assist in straightening out the vehicle in these situations. A lane change alert is also available, but unlike the lane departure warning, this feature is meant for intentional lane switching. By working alongside the side blind zone alert, the Enclave will know if a vehicle is in your blind spot and will notify you before changing lanes. Lastly, front pedestrian braking is available and is an intelligent technology that assists in braking pressure to avoid an accidental collision with a pedestrian. Buying Your New Buick Buick is continuing to produce vehicles with the same quality it has always been known for since the manufacturer opened its doors over a century ago in 1903. Although some may argue this new 2021 Enclave doesn’t exactly flip the script when compared to last year’s model, this new Enclave serves as an evolutionary step for the lineup. If you’re looking for an SUV for its excellent versatility and or the performance it offers, the Enclave is a great choice. Not only is the Enclave a stellar SUV in this regard, but Buick’s attention to detail can not be underestimated. To take a closer look at the new 2021 Enclave and feel the difference of driving a Buick during your test drive, visit us at Dan Cummins Chevrolet Buick. We’re located at 1020 M.L.K. Jr Blvd, Paris, KY, and we gladly provide the greater Lexington area with high-quality Buick vehicles.

Have you always dreamt of competing with a supercar? And does that dream appear out of reach because of its hefty price tag? Chevy now allows you to do just that with the 2023 Corvette Z06. While it boasts a six-figure price tag, this mid-engine Corvette is still much more affordable than many of its supercar competitors. Now, that doesn't stop the Corvette Z06 from more than holding its own on the track. Our team at Dan Cummins Chevrolet Buick of Paris has taken a closer look at what this new two-door wonder offers you. View New Chevrolet Corvettes Corvette Z06’s Engine and Performance 2023 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 The Chevy Corvette Z06 gets a growling 5.5-liter V-8 engine behind the driver that propels you from 0 to 60 mph in a remarkable 2.6 seconds. One reviewer likened the sound of this powerhouse to a “howl” that will “send shivers down the spines of bystanders.” The Z06 features an eight-speed automatic transmission and rear-wheel drive. The engine puts out an impressive 670 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque. If you're considering buying this vehicle, you're probably an enthusiastic track racer or someone who likes to shift quickly off the line. We’re guessing that fuel economy probably isn't at the top of your list, at least not when you get behind the wheel of this Corvette. For the record, though, the Z06 achieves 12 mpg in the city and 19 mpg on the highway. If track racing is your top priority, you’ll want to add the available data recording device. This nifty attribute lets you record your lap times and videos of your performance on the track. And judging by the Corvette Z06’s astonishing numbers, your laps will be completed with impressive times. This coupe rushes through a quarter mile in 10.5 seconds, reaching a speed of 131 mph. It takes a fleeting 15 seconds to hit 150 mph and 24 seconds to reach 170 mph. Chevy says the Corvette Z06 has a top speed of 189 mph. Corvette Z06’s Performance Packages As you'd expect from a supercar, the Z06 offers several performance packages unlocking high-end features, such as improved brakes and upgraded suspension. You can add carbon fiber elements on the exterior, including a spoiler and front splitter. Some packages allow you to add unique color combinations inside the cabin. Corvette Z06’s Interior Inside the cabin, Chevy has built the Z06 to stand out. With a square steering wheel and two supportive, comfortable seats, there's no mistaking the Corvette Z06 coupe for anything other than a high-speed sports car. You can upgrade the cockpit with leather upholstery and choose from eight design themes to give the cabin your unique twist. Behind the mid-sized engine, the Corvette Z06 has a decent-sized trunk for this car segment. There should be enough room at the rear to carry two sets of golf clubs or a similar amount of luggage. The maximum cargo storage space is around 13 cubic feet. Chevy Infotainment and Safety Tech This Chevy features an 8-inch infotainment screen that can be paired with one of two premium stereo options from Bose. The first is a 10-speaker unit, while the optional upgrade is a 14-speaker audio system that's sure to impress whether you're listening to music or podcasts. Other standard features include Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. Another helpful detail worth knowing about is monitoring your vehicle's behavior whenever someone else is behind the wheel, such as a valet or relative. The Corvette Z06 combines high-speed abilities with a range of safety equipment to help you stay safe. These features include blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, a multi-view camera system, and rear parking sensors. Chevy backs the Corvette Z06 with a three-year, 36,000-mile limited warranty and a five-year, 60,000-mile powertrain warranty. These warranties are standard for most automakers, covering any defects in workmanship or malfunctioning parts. Corvette Z06’s Trims With a base starting price of around $108,000, the Corvette Z06 compares well to supercars from other brands with similar equipment. There are three trims on offer, which can push the price over $150,000. The trims available are 1LZ, 2LZ, and 3LZ. Many interior features remain the same across the three trims, but you can get trim-specific designs on the doors, infotainment screens, and other cabin parts. The three trims can be combined with various performance packages to build your unique Corvette, including standout exterior styling, high-performance ceramic brakes, or premium leather upholstery. Other Corvette Options Chevy has many options if you feel like giving up a touch of high performance to get your hands on a Corvette that's more practical for day-to-day driving. Chevy's standard Corvette also has a V-8 engine capable of putting out 490 horsepower and 450 lb-ft of torque. The Corvette is available as a coupe or convertible, giving you the choice of a manually removable roof panel or a retractable roof. The standard Corvette has some options for the racetrack, including sculpted sports seats, a front axle lift, and a high-profile rear wing. Whether you want to know more about the Corvette Z06 or the standard Chevy Corvette, don't hesitate to contact us. Here at Dan Cummins Chevrolet Buick of Paris, we'd be delighted to show you what the Corvette Z06 is capable of. We can even arrange a test drive so you can get a feel for the raw power of this all-American supercar before you commit to a purchase. We're sure that after sitting behind the wheel once, you won't be able to give up the desire to own one of these high-performing racers. We're here to help you have a hassle-free buying experience. If you need assistance to secure auto financing, our finance center will be happy to support your Corvette purchase with a competitive auto loan. And once you leave our dealership, you’ll always be able to rely on our professional service center to carry out your routine maintenance to ensure your Corvette keeps performing at its best for years to come.