Today, you’ve got SUVs, pickup trucks, performance cars, and even electric vehicles waiting for you on the lot of your local Kentucky Chevy dealer. Where does this leave the sedan, a popular and classic vehicle style that millions of people drive daily? For manufacturers such as Chevy, there’s still plenty of room for sedans in the market, and this has especially been the case with the release of the midsize 2021 Malibu. Here at Dan Cummins Chevrolet Buick, you’ll find models such as the Malibu along with other new Chevy vehicles that you can rely on for years to come.

There are five trims for the 2021 Malibu, starting with the L at just $22,140. The base trim offers plenty of features for its low price tag and represents incredible value. Upgrading to the LS trim adds a few more features on top of the standard set, making for an even safer and more comfortable drive. Teen Driver is one of these features, meaning those who have a teenager in their household should strongly consider any model above the base trim. The RS and LT are the next two trim levels, with the LT adding additional upgrades such as LED lighting and heated seats to provide a more premium feel at an affordable price.

The RS trim is a sporty take on the Malibu, adding large 18-inch alloy wheels, dual exhaust outlets, a rear wing spoiler, and special blacked-out badging. Additionally, the RS gives the driver a power-adjustable seat and leather-wrapped steering wheel for improving comfort on the road. The Premier is named as such because it’s a premier experience in many ways. This is the only trim that comes standard with a more powerful engine, substantially larger 19-inch wheels, perforated leather seating, and a host of interior enhancements.

Vast Range of Performance

Both of the two engines that are offered with the 2021 Malibu are turbocharged, providing an excellent blend of power and efficiency across the lineup. With two engines to choose from, you can have a Malibu that functions as an efficient commuter or opt for a remarkably powerful car that will increase your driving enjoyment. But whichever option you choose, you will be getting a reliable and modern engine that you can depend on for years to come.

The first four trim levels of the 2021 Malibu come with a turbocharged 1.5L 4-cylinder that produces 160 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque. Paired to this engine is a continuously variable automatic transmission that provides optimized gear ratios for enhanced efficiency. When compared with the competition, this turbocharged 1.5L 4-cylinder engine provides an excellent all-around experience, complemented by incredible fuel efficiency. The EPA-estimated fuel economy ratings are 29 MPG city and 36 MPG highway, resulting in low gas bills while driving a comfortable midsize sedan.

There’s a large step up in performance should you opt for the highest-end trim, the Premier. As we’ve mentioned, this trim comes standard with a more powerful engine – a turbocharged 2.0L 4-cylinder that comes paired with a traditional 9-speed automatic transmission for an improved driving feel. With 250 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque, this turbocharged engine holds 56% more horsepower and 41% greater torque than the engine that comes with the first four trim levels. This will certainly give you an extra performance kick, and its EPA-estimated ratings of 22 MPG city and 33 MPG highway are still fantastic, albeit a bit lower than the base engine.

Keeping Up Relevancy

As befits a midsize sedan, the Malibu provides plenty of interior space for a comfortable ride. If the 2021 Malibu is the newest vehicle that you’ve owned in a while, you’ll certainly notice the difference that its tech and convenience features have brought to the table. We’re highly impressed with all of the tech-centric features that come with every Malibu, even the base L trim. Depending on the trim level that you purchase, your Malibu can include an additional set of features, all of which are very relevant and easy to learn.

Let’s start with what you’ll receive if you purchase the base model Malibu. First, you’ll receive an infotainment center with a standard 8-inch touchscreen for easy access to all of the vehicle’s features. Such a large standard screen is a step up over many competitors, and the interface is extremely intuitive. Some of the features that you’d expect are also here, with Bluetooth connectivity, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto all coming standard. Even better, the Malibu comes with the wireless versions of Apple CarPlay and Android, so you don’t even need to plug in your smartphone to access your favorite media and apps through the infotainment screen.

The simplest word to describe the standard feature set on the 2021 Malibu is “astonishing.” Various trims such as the LS, and especially the Premier, will include even more features to further both the value and relevancy of the 2021 Malibu in the long term. The LS adds a standard 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot to the infotainment center, providing reliable internet connectivity wherever you are without eating into your data plan. Although mostly a quality-of-life improvement, a hotspot can be very important when a cellular connection can’t be reached.

With a name like Premier, this trim lives up to its expectations and then some. Our favorite features from this trim include the wireless charging pad for your smartphone. With this addition, not only can you connect your smartphone to Apple CarPlay or Android Auto without a wire, but you can simultaneously charge your device with no cable required whatsoever. Premier also integrates a far richer audio experience thanks to the inclusion of a nine-speaker set up as part of a high-quality audio system from Bose. While aptly named, Premier isn’t going to be the trim that everyone purchases, but rest assured, each model has its strengths.

The Starting Point

There aren’t a whole lot of sedans left in Chevy dealer showrooms, but there’s a reason why the Malibu has stuck around. Chevy drivers who want a reliable and comfortable sedan with features that you’d find in more expensive automobiles but at a lower price should consider the Malibu. After almost 60 years on the market, the 2021 Malibu shares very little resemblance with the original 1964 model. Chevy has always taken care to keep its models fresh with numerous improvements over time, and the 2021 Malibu doesn’t show any signs of slowing down.

While more and more drivers are turning to large SUVs, there will always be drivers who prefer to get behind the wheel of a nimble and efficient sedan instead. With the 2021 Malibu, you are getting a vehicle that will save you money at the pump, provide you with plenty of modern features, and be a joy to drive. The midsize sedan has been a staple of American automotive culture for decades, and over that long stretch of time, the Chevy Malibu has remained one of the best options around. We’re proud to continue to be a part of the Malibu legacy by offering the 2021 Malibu here at Dan Cummins Chevrolet Buick.

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Different people buy trucks for different reasons. If you were into racing or off-road activities, you might want a truck with a lifted suspension, four-wheel drive, locking differentials, and plenty of horsepower. If you wanted a used truck for the family, you might go with a Crew Cab configuration and ensure that it comes packed with plenty of entertainment and safety features. For trailering, you probably want something with great torque, rear-wheel drive, and a dependable frame. So what are some of the most powerful used trucks you could get your hands on, and what might you seek out when you visit a used truck dealer in Kentucky? Well, luckily for you, we have a great variety of used trucks here at Dan Cummins, and this list will briefly go over some of the most powerful options available in the used truck market.

Chevy Silverado 2500/3500 HD

When it comes to powerful pickup trucks, the Chevy Silverado is easily among the best on the market, having plenty of good model years when it comes to dependable, high-end performance.

If you need an absolutely powerful heavy-duty pickup truck for lots of serious trailering, the Silverado 3500 HD gets the job done in spades. Tucks equipped with the highly efficient V8 Duramax turbo-diesel engines have incredible performance compared to rivals from other brands. Not only that, but the Duramax diesel engines are known for being long-lasting workhorses in addition to being able to push the Silverado to its limits when equipped. This includes various model years achieving trailering ratings that extend up to and beyond 35,000 pounds.

But what if you want a powerful pickup without the dualie drivetrain and stiff suspension? Well, you can still achieve some great results with the Silverado 2500 HD, which achieves class-defining performance with its trailering capabilities. However, you can also orient the 2500 HD into more of a luxury pickup if you want, thanks to its more comfortable ride and various trims like the High Country.

Ram 2500/3500

Anyone who remotely pays attention to truck news has probably heard about (or maybe seen) some of the performance feats from Ram. These trucks push the limits when it comes to horsepower and torque in a production vehicle, and they don’t get side-tracked in what their purposes are and how to achieve them. While the Ram 1500 is well known for being one of the fastest trucks on the market, it’s not quite as powerful as its heavy-duty siblings, despite offering some of the highest horsepower ratings in the light-duty market.

The Ram 2500 and 3500 series take the 1500’s performance bar and raise it even further. However, they don’t do so with the intent of completing the quarter-mile in record time or reaching 0 to 60 miles per hour in the blink of an eye. No, the 2500 and 3500 series of Ram trucks are designed to utilize the horsepower and torque generated by the massive turbocharged Cummins diesel engine to tow and trailer tens of thousands of pounds with ease. They are also great trucks for other heavy-duty activities, such as plowing snow or hauling heavy cargo.

The Ram heavy-duty line of pickups is available in multiple drivetrain configurations, but the one that nets you the best towing and trailering performance will be the dual-rear-wheel setup, also known as a dualie. Featuring four wheels on the rear axle, these trucks are perfect for maximizing all of the torque generated by the Cummins to tow like a pro.

GMC Sierra 2500/3500 HD

Much like the Chevy Silverado, the GMC Sierra also comes in a variety of heavy-duty formats, most notably the 2500 HD and 3500 HD. These are the most powerful consumer iterations of the GMC Sierra. Not only do they have competitive tow and trailer ratings to match class rivals, but they also do something a little bit different from the Silverado by veering into a different direction… if you so choose.

The Denali trim for the GMC Sierra has helped separate it from the pack, given that the Denali trim means you can put the powerful V8 gasoline engine or V8 Duramax to use for towing and trailering in style. In fact, the Denali is specifically designed to make the GMC Sierra’s heavy-duty variants real luxury trucks. For power junkies who want a heavy-duty pickup with enough torque for hauling cargo and trailering heavy loads but who also want to relax in a feature-rich cabin, you can’t go wrong with a used GMC Sierra 2500 HD or 3500 HD Denali.

Ford F-250/350/450 SD

It’s no surprise that Ford’s Super Duty series is regarded as some of the best heavy-duty pickup trucks. The very finely tuned configuration of cab, bed, and driveline can help some of the dual-rear-wheel Super Duty trucks achieve trailer ratings above 35,000 pounds when properly equipped with a 5th wheel or gooseneck hitch.

The Ford-F-250 and F-350 have become staples of what’s expected from a heavy-duty pickup when it comes to towing and trailering, and the F-450 takes things even further. The gasoline-driven V8 or the V8 turbo-diesel engines, combined with the quality-made chassis and drivetrain, have enabled the Ford Super Duty series to far exceed expectations when it comes to towing and trailering capabilities. And to no one’s surprise, it’s one of the reasons why the F-Series of pickup trucks are the most popular in America.

If you need a powerful work truck with a reliable powertrain, then most people would point you to a Ford F-250 or F-350. The F-250 also comes with some luxury-oriented, adventure-themed trims that some people might enjoy if they wanted a very powerful pickup truck that had a splash of panache. Like the GMC Sierra AT4 or Ram Power Wagon series, Ford offers the Tremor package for off-road purposes. So if you want a “do it all” heavy-duty pickup that can fulfill the role of being a tower, an off-road master, a family vehicle, a work truck, and a leisure truck, the Super Duty can get the job done.

Find a Powerful Used Pickup At Dan Cummins

You should look for your next pickup from a used truck dealer in Kentucky that you can trust, and you can trust Dan Cummins. At our dealership, we offer a wide variety of used trucks from different brands, consisting of various makes, models, and trims. If you want a specific used pickup truck, whether for family, work, or leisure, we have something for you. And if you want something new, talk to one of our helpful staff members to find out more about the Dan Cummins lease advantage, which includes zero down and no hidden fees, along with a 15,000-mile allowance.

Whether you are interested in buying or leasing, our finance department can point you in the right direction. If you need a loan, you can make use of our sign-up process to get pre-qualified for an auto loan in a matter of seconds. Please speak to our team to learn more about our service center, trade-in options, and why customers prefer Dan Cummins over the competition. Give us a call or chat with our friendly staff today to schedule a test drive for your next used or new truck.

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Ah, to be young again. As each birthday arrives, so do new privileges and responsibilities. One of the most anticipated milestones in a teenager’s life is learning to drive and earning the coveted driver’s license. Driving means never again riding the bus or having a parent-chaperoned carpool. Driving means stopping in the fast-food drive-thru any time you want. But most importantly to the teenage crowd, driving means adventure and having the freedom to explore the open roads. And when looking for affordable adventure, there is no better option than a used Jeep Wrangler.

The Jeep Wrangler is an attractive vehicle for anyone yearning for freedom and adventure, so it’s natural that many teenage drivers would gravitate towards the off-road-ready vehicle. While a brand new version is inaccessible to most teenagers’ budgets, a used Jeep Wrangler can be a very tempting option. But parents are less concerned with the cool factor or the call of the wild. In fact, parents just want to know that their young drivers will be safe as they learn the ropes of being behind the wheel. Mistakes happen, and while accidents may occur, parents and teenage drivers alike want to be sure that everyone is as safe as possible on the road. So how does the Jeep Wrangler stack up to other “first car” prospects? Are Jeep Wranglers safe for teenage drivers? There are many variables that might lead a parent to consider – or reconsider – this popular vehicle for a first-time driver.

The Safety Features Found on a New Wrangler

An aspiring teen Wrangler driver will likely make a compelling case for their dream vehicle. That might mean listing all of the safety features currently found on the Jeep Wrangler. While this strategy is certainly commendable and shows that they’ve done their research, parents need to be aware that many of the safety features on current Jeep Wranglers were only introduced post-2018. Therefore, any used vehicles before that year may not include the same features or protection. At the same time, if a used 2018 or later model is in your teen’s budget, you’ll have the peace of mind that comes with knowing they have the highest number of available safety features for the brand.

Jeep has released a PDF detailing all 75 safety and security features within the 2018 and laters Wrangler models. The Wrangler is intended for off-road use, so it needs to be able to stand up to the elements. Jeep has built the Wrangler with a high-strength steel frame to protect the passengers with a rigid chassis and specific “crumple zone” areas that can absorb and distribute shock. There are also multi-stage front and side airbags for the driver and front passenger.

The list of safety features also includes driving and engineering components, such as all-speed traction control and an anti-lock brake system with rough-road detection, which can gauge the road and modulate braking based on performance and slippage. Electronic roll mitigation is another key feature, which works with electronic stability control functions to apply brakes individually to keep the vehicle traveling straight, even as wheels begin to slip or lose purchase on slippery surfaces and gravel.

Physical safety features are also included. These include daytime running lights and an Enhanced Accident Response System that automatically activates the hazard lights and interior lighting if the airbags are deployed. The seat belts are also designed to provide physical protection by sensing the amount of force used against the actual belt and adjusting tension to tighten or provide slack as needed to prevent violent upper body and head movement.

Driver assistance technology is also available on the current generation of Jeep Wrangler, though not standard. This includes Blind Spot Monitoring, Forward Collision Warning with Active Braking, Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop and Go, Automatic High-Beam Headlamps, and Rear Cross Path Detection. A used Wrangler equipped with all of these modern features will certainly help keep your teenager safe on the road.

Safety Features on Older Used Wranglers

While the 2018 JL-generation Wranglers are clearly engineered with a sense of safety, what about older models? Well, things get a bit more complicated. Before bringing crushing disappointment upon your teen, bear in mind that the Wrangler wasn’t designed to be a mild-mannered city street vehicle. It has always been intended to get covered in mud, ford through water, climb rocks, and get plenty of wind in the passengers’ hair. In fact, a four-door Wrangler wasn’t even available until the 2007 model year. The safety features of the older Wranglers were focused less on preventing traffic accidents and more on keeping you safe while off-roading.

Still, that doesn’t mean these older and more affordable options are unsafe. They generally include important features like electronic stability control, traction control, rollover mitigation, and driver and front passenger airbags. The older the used Jeep Wrangler, the more unlikely it will be to have a full set of safety features. But in all fairness, this is true of every vehicle. The safety features that we know and love today are relatively recent in the timeline of automobile development.

But unlike more mainstream choices, the Wrangler has a few other tricks up its sleeve. If you live in a more rural area, then the Wrangler’s standard 4×4 system can also be considered a safety feature in its own right. Having off-road 4×4 can keep your teen securely on the road in conditions where even SUVs risk sliding into a ditch, and even if a Wrangler does end up in a ditch, its off-road capabilities usually allow it to get back out without having to wait for a tow truck.

What Do The Experts Say about Safety and the Jeep Wrangler?

As one can imagine, the opinions are somewhat divided. After all, this is a vehicle that comes with a folding windshield and a soft top – hardtops have been an option along the way but are often considered to impede the overall freedom and excitement of driving a Wrangler. Amazingly enough, there are few official studies on the suitability of the soft top in a crash. However, the safety of Jeeps in rollover accidents can be attested to by any experienced off-roader.

Most of the testing from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) involves more or less head-on crashes. IIHS tests gave the 2007 Wrangler received “Good” ratings for small and moderate overlap front crashes, proving that even an older Wrangler can provide solid protection in collisions.

The tests of the redesigned 2018 model showed improvement to these scores, with the additional safety and security features each doing their job to prevent injury to the driver. In the 2018 testing, the Wrangler received “Good” ratings nearly across the board, only losing points on the difficult “small overlap test” that has proven challenging for all vehicle types. It also received full marks for the optional driver-assist feature, which successfully avoided a collision at 25 mph.

Should You Let Your Teen Drive a Wrangler?

Ultimately, any car is only as safe as the driver. While safety features and driver assistance technologies can help mitigate accidents, they are called “accidents” for a reason. The number one consideration should be teaching your teen driver how to stay alert and adhere to the rules of the road. A good driver in an “unsafe” car is far less likely to be injured than a reckless driver in even the safest vehicle. However, the Wrangler is far from an unsafe vehicle and even offers state of the art features if you find a more recent used model.

The Wrangler also offers its own unique brand of safety, thanks to its off-road legacy. This Jeep is designed for climbing hills and splashing around in the mud. If your teenage driver aims to do the same, there is simply no better vehicle. Taking a mainstream SUV or the average pickup truck off-roading is only asking for trouble, while a Wrangler can take nearly anything in stride. Even if off-roading is limited to bad weather driving on back roads, there are few vehicles that can provide the same level of confidence that you will get out of a used Wrangler.

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Carpooling is a terrific idea for a few reasons. Aside from spending more time with your co-workers, which can certainly boost team morale, you can save plenty of money as well by carpooling. Whether you’re the one driving or one of your co-workers is behind the wheel, carpooling can be both healthy to your work-relationships and entertaining too. Of course, while getting from point A to point B is the end-goal of any carpool, a multitude of different vehicles can offer an experience that will keep you looking forward to your pre or post-workday ride home. You may be wondering where you can find a Lexington used car dealer that will offer you competitive prices on the best pre-owned cars for carpooling. To answer that question, we recommend you visit our dealership. At Dan Cummins Chevrolet Buick, we’ve got you covered with the very best used vehicles for carpooling.

Features To Look For

If you ask your co-workers what they look for in a carpool car, chances are everyone might say something different. However, you’ll likely hear some common answers, such as a wide and open interior for the utmost head and legroom or perhaps captain’s chairs. Regardless of the answers that you receive, you’ll notice a common mutual theme, and that’s comfort. We as people understand that comfort is a quintessential part of an enjoyable ride, so it makes sense that you would want to experience comfortability either before a long workday or right after one.

Relegating back to the two previous answers, which were interior space and captain’s chairs, the former doesn’t require much explanation. Simply put, why would you want to be crammed into the backseat of a tight interior for an extended period of time? Additionally, vehicle manufacturers often praise various models within their lineups for their vast and open interiors for this very reason. Captain’s chairs, on the other hand, are well regarded and often seen as more comfortable and private, as you won’t be sharing a bench seat with two of your co-workers. These seats also offer armrests, which are always appreciated.

The seats inside of your vehicle are an important part of the entire carpooling equation. For the most comfort in tandem with a luxurious flair, you should consider opting for a vehicle that offers leather seating. Depending on which vehicle you purchase, you can receive an 8-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, and your passenger can be treated to a power-adjustable seat too. For cold mornings, heated seats are beneficial, and many modern vehicles offer heated seats for the second-row passengers as well.

Comfort and Entertainment

A spacious interior isn’t only important for comfort but can also be highly beneficial if anyone is bringing along any personal belongings such as bags and luggage. Along with a spacious interior, this means you’ll more than likely have a greater seating capacity, which is certainly ideal when carpooling. Depending on the vehicle that you purchase, you can seat upwards of seven or eight passengers with ease. Vehicles such as the Chevy Traverse, for example, are popular because of their maximum seating capacity of eight passengers, and older models can be found at a great price. The Traverse also has a maximum cargo capacity of 98.2 cubic feet with only the front row of seats upright, 58.1 cubic feet with the third-row down, and lastly, 23 cubic feet with every row in place.

Other features that enhance comfortability while carpooling include items like dual-zone automatic climate control, which will allow the driver to pick between hot or cold air while the passenger next to them can control the temperature in their side of the cabin as well. During nice breezy days, having a moonroof is an excellent way to get fresh air flowing through your cabin and some extra natural light too. Most Chevy vehicles can be outfitted with a moonroof, and some models even offer large panoramic moonroofs that stretch over the back seats as well.

As previously mentioned, entertainment is important for a carpool, and entertaining your co-workers can be achieved in a few ways. Firstly, you can opt for a vehicle that contains an integrated rear-seat entertainment center, so everyone can enjoy an episode of a show while on the way to work, for example. Another great way to stay entertained while on the road is by listening to music, and for this, we recommend purchasing a used vehicle that contains a premium audio system by a legendary audio company such as Bose. Many can be outfitted with one of these premium audio systems, and with the help of Bluetooth connectivity and a WiFi hotspot, everybody can stream their favorite songs.

Best Vehicles For Carpooling

Among the wide catalog of Chevy’s lineup, we recommend the Chevy Traverse as your go-to SUV. As previously mentioned, this SUV can seat eight passengers when properly equipped, and inside of this vehicle, you can expect plenty of headroom and legroom. Using a 2018 Traverse for reference, the front row gets 41.3-inches of headroom and 41 inches of legroom, while the second row has 40-inches of headroom and 38.4-inches of legroom. Even in the third row, you can expect a decent amount of space, with an ample 38.2-inches of headroom and 33.5-inches of legroom.

The Chevy Traverse is also an excellent vehicle in terms of general performance you can expect, along with its efficiency. Utilizing the same 2018 Traverse as an example, it comes standard with a turbocharged 2.0L 4-cylinder that comes paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission and will produce 255 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque. Aside from its excellent performance, this engine also receives respectable EPA-estimated ratings of 20 MPG city and 26 MPG highway. Upgrading to the available 3.6L V6 will increase the horsepower output up to 310 hp but lower the overall torque output with 266 lb-ft of torque.

Another excellent Chevy vehicle for carpooling is the Tahoe. The Tahoe is a far more feature-rich vehicle than the aforementioned Traverse. However, in the pre-owned market, you can still find the Tahoe at a great price. Inside of the Tahoe, you may opt for an integrated entertainment center for everyone in the back to enjoy. Additionally, the Tahoe is a much stronger vehicle as well, with its available 6.2L V8 that comes paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission that can produce 420 hp and 460 lb-ft of torque. This is approximately 35% more horsepower and 73% greater torque than the Traverse’s best engine.

Come Buy Your Chevy Vehicle Today

At Dan Cummins Chevrolet Buick, we’re committed to finding you the vehicle of your dreams, and most importantly, within your price range. When you work with our staff members, we’ll take the time to listen and figure out what you’re looking for in a vehicle and what you aren’t interested in. Our inventory is expansive and full of new and used fan favorites from Chevrolet and Buick, as well as quality used models from other manufacturers.

Do you need your current vehicle fixed? That is not a problem at all with the help of our on-site service center. From regular maintenance to major repairs, our skilled technicians can handle any work you need. We’re located at 1020 Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, right off Highway 68, making us easy to reach from anywhere in the Lexington area. Visit Dan Cummins today to get ready for a more comfortable commute.

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The cost of a new electric vehicle (EV) has been steadily dropping over the years; many are now very competitive with gas-powered vehicles. With the ever-lower purchase price of an electric vehicle and lower fuel and maintenance costs, it is now very affordable to buy and operate a Chevy EV. At the very least, it is definitely something that is worth looking into. Years ago, electric vehicles were niche products rarely seen on the road and often were the source of myths and stigma. But recently we have seen increased popularity and sales of electric vehicles. From the factory to the streets and highways, EVs emit a fraction of global warming pollutants as gas-powered vehicles and are already displacing millions of gallons of oil globally on a daily basis. But if you do own an electric vehicle, it is important to keep it properly maintained. Here are a few tips on maintaining a Chevy EV.

EV Maintenance isn’t as Expensive as You Think

Contrary to what you may have read or heard, maintaining your Chevy EV is not expensive. The truth of the matter is that it is far less complicated and expensive to maintain than a gasoline engine. You see, a gasoline engine contains hundreds of moving parts and other components, while an electric engine contains far fewer parts, around 20 to be more precise. Better still, the parts and components of an electric engine don’t wear out as quickly as parts and components in gas engines, and they are far easier to replace.

Gas engines have many parts that rub against each other, which causes them to wear down over time; the parts in electric engines don’t rub against each other and will last a long time. But while there are fewer parts and components in an electric engine, they still need to be serviced on a regular basis to ensure your electric car runs at peak performance level and gives you years of reliable service.

How Do EVs Work?

There is a very simple concept behind electric-powered vehicles; electricity is stored in a battery pack and used to power the car. Since the EV relies on electricity to move, you will need to plug it in to charge it, just like your phone. And just like your phone, you don’t need to go anywhere special to charge it. Chevy EV can be easily plugged in at home at left to recharge overnight. But as you all know, there are times when you will travel a long distance and need ways to recharge your Chevy EV.

Thanks to the fact that electric cars are becoming increasingly more popular, charging stations are no longer a rare sight. All across the nation, charging points are popping up everywhere. There are over 26,000 charging stations in the United States, and that number grows exponentially every year. In addition, the battery packs in electric cars are getting better, and battery ranges are getting longer, which means you can drive farther on a full charge. The 2021 Chevy Bolt EV and 2021 Chevy Bolt EUV offer over 250 miles of range on a single charge, giving you plenty of range for commuting and road trips.

EV Battery Life

Gas-powered cars are equipped with lead-acid batteries, but electric cars utilize lithium-ion battery packs. This is the same type of battery you have in your smartphone, tablet, or laptop. There are a few benefits of lithium-ion battery packs; for example, they tend to hold their charge longer, even when they are not being used. They also provide a much greater energy density, which means that they store far more electricity for the same amount of weight. Trying to get hundreds of miles of range out of lead-acid batteries would result in your EV being the size of an eighteen-wheeler.

Every Chevy EV sold in the United States comes with a battery warranty that lasts for at least eight years or up to 100,000 miles. It is important to remember that every battery slowly loses capacity over time, but in a Chevy EV, this loss is so small that the battery pack will last longer than many gasoline engines. The is because Chevy uses technologies like liquid-cooled battery packs and advanced battery-monitoring software to ensure that its EVs do not overheat or overcharge the batteries. Because of this detailed engineering, you can safely treat your Chevy EV the same way that you would treat any other Chevy and expect it to last for a long time.

Basic Maintenance Rules for EVs

Just because you own an EV, it doesn’t mean that you should ignore basic car maintenance rules. Since you do drive an electric vehicle, you don’t have to worry about oil changes or changing out the spark plugs, but there are other things that need to be checked. For example, you still need to have your tires checked for proper air pressure and have them rotated just like you would on a gas-powered vehicle.

If you own an EV, you also still need to have your brakes inspected regularly. However, Chevy EVs have regenerative braking systems; they use motor resistance to slow the vehicle down and send the recaptured energy back into the battery pack. This type of braking system is easier on the brake pads, and they should last longer than the pads on gas-powered cars. Still, the brake pads will still wear down over time, so it is important to have them checked and replaced as necessary.

Your electric car has fewer fluids than its gas-powered brothers, but they still need to be checked and topped-off as necessary. This means you need to keep tabs on the windshield wiper fluid, brake fluid, and coolant. Check your owner’s manual and get a coolant system flush when recommended. Overall, EV maintenance is cheaper and covers fewer items, but it still needs to be performed regularly.

Where to Get Your EV Serviced

When it is time for maintenance, your Chevy EV should be taken to your authorized Chevy dealership service center. You can count on your dealership service center to provide the best maintenance for all vehicle types, but it is particularly important to visit them if you own an EV. Very few private mechanics are properly trained or equipped to work on EV, and you are taking a risk relying on a local garage to maintain your electric car. It just makes more sense to have the professionals at your dealership look after your Chevy EV.

At Dan Cummins Chevrolet Buick, you will be sure of getting the service you need. Our team of friendly, knowledgeable, and experienced staff works together to ensure you enjoy the ultimate Chevy experience. We are not here to simply meet your expectations; rather, we are here to exceed your expectations. And we do this by delivering the best possible service. Dan Cummins is also your premier destination for parts, tires, and accessories. Indeed, we are your one-stop-shop for anything that has to do with Chevy EVs and Chevy cars, trucks, and SUVs in general. If you have been considering an EV or looking for a place to maintain your current EV, don’t hesitate – head on over to Dan Cummins Chevrolet Buick and see what we can offer.

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The only problem with searching for a used Chevy 1500 for sale is choosing between the surplus of available options. There’s a reason these dependable workhorse full-size pickups are snatched up almost as quickly as they hit the market: they’re high-quality, reliable trucks that get the job done. Thanks to a wide range of trims, powertrain options, and capabilities, there’s also something for everyone. This is a trend in the full-size pickup truck category, and the buyer is the big winner.

We particularly love the lineup of full-size light-duty Silverado 1500 pickups during its third generation phase. Model years 2014 to 2018 represent a zenith of technology and grit, along with a strong thread of luxury woven throughout the upper-level trims, while still remaining affordable. In the third generation series, Chevy managed to elevate the Silverado from work truck to bona fide upscale family vehicle.

Why buy used? New full-size pickup trucks are pricey – a new, fully-loaded 2021 Silverado 1500 High Country can set you back over $70,000. A similarly-equipped three-year-old 1500 is more likely to hover in the mid-$40,000 range. That’s big savings in exchange for sacrificing that new car smell and an excellent option for budget-minded truck buyers. Essentially, the first owner absorbed the loss in value for you, leaving you with the best deal in the industry.

The third-generation lineup of Silverado 1500 pickups was launched with a choice of three different engines and evolved over its five-year run with upgrades and enhancements to the powertrain, designed for ever-increasing towing and payload capabilities. Chevy also tweaked tech over the span of that five years, putting the focus on connectivity and seamless smartphone integration.

There’s a lot to like about the Chevrolet Silverado 1500 lineup throughout each model year of its five-year third-generation production run. There’s a reason it took home the North American International Auto Show’s coveted Truck of the Year award when it was introduced in 2014. Let’s look at the Silverado’s highlights so you can get on with the process of finding yours!

Powertrain and Capability

The completely redesigned 2014 Chevy Silverado 1500 saw the addition of an all-aluminum hood, engine block, and control arms, reducing the truck’s mass and contributing to better fuel economy. A special roll-formed steel bed replaced Chevy’s traditional stamped steel bed, which made the truck even lighter.

Over its five year run, the third generation of 1500 pickups saw four different engines, including the use of Chevy’s EcoTec and eAssist technologies. At the time of its launch, the EcoTec lineup of engines used for the third generation 1500 series promised a technology no other truck maker can match – a promise that Chevy delivered on. The 4.3-liter V6, 5.3-liter V8, and 6.2-liter V8 engines in the EcoTec3 lineup were designed to deliver low-end torque and horsepower while contributing to better overall fuel efficiency. GM achieved this seeming dichotomy of power and fuel efficiency via an advanced combustion system that operates with a higher 11.0:1 combustion ratio. In short, the engines are more efficient, smaller, and better engineered.

The EcoTec3 engines are also capable of seamlessly switching to four-cylinder-only power when additional torque and horsepower aren’t needed. The system essentially deactivates some of the cylinders, a process called Active Fuel Management, in just 20 milliseconds, so the change is imperceptible to the driver. When extra power is needed, the system reactivates the dormant cylinders, again, virtually imperceptibly. While it was only available on the 5.3-liter V8 engine after 2016, Chevy also offered the eAssist mild hybrid system, which supplemented the engine with a small electric motor for additional torque and a 13-percent increase in fuel economy.

Interior Features of the Third-Generation

Chevrolet first added the upscale High Country trim during the Silverado’s third generation. Popular among luxury-minded buyers, the High Country trim included such plush extras as saddle brown leather seating and navigation. An upgraded Bose audio system, power-adjustable pedals, and a heated steering wheel were also part of the luxury add-ons.

Throughout the third generation production run, Chevy introduced several special edition packages. These packages added special equipment to both the exterior and interior, distinguishing them from the ordinary trim lineup. Possibly the most unique edition was the 2018 Centennial Edition, which celebrated the 100th anniversary of the founding of Chevrolet. With special Chevy badging and all the features of the luxurious LTZ trim, this special edition is worth buying if you find one used.

The Silverado 1500 was offered in several different cab configurations during its third generation, making it a versatile choice for a large variety of buyers. These included regular cab, double cab, and crew cab body styles, all available with four-wheel drive. Five standard trims – Work Truck (WT), LS, LT, LTZ, and High Country – meant customers could dial in a truck that met their specific budget and equipment needs.

One great feature all Silverado 1500 models share is the abundant storage space throughout the interior cabin. The redesigned locking center console is even wide enough to accommodate most laptops. It also includes room for hanging files and integrates five USB ports, a 110-volt outlet, and a special cubby for storing cell phones.

Modern Tech in a Used Truck

The 2014 Chevy Silverado 1500 came with an array of tech features that portended the wave to follow in the next several model year rollouts. Every third generation Silverado 1500 came equipped with OnStar technology, offering drivers an available subscription-based 24/7 concierge and roadside assistance plan. The plan also included a 4G Wi-Fi hotspot. In addition, smartphone audio streaming, via a standard USB port, was also included.

In 2016, the third generation ushered in the Silverado’s first 8-inch infotainment touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, as well as an available wireless charging pad with certain trims and seating configurations. Bluetooth was standard, as was HD radio, and a series of high-end Bose audio systems were included in equipment packages.

For the 2018 model year, Chevy made the available 7-inch screen and rear vision camera standard. Other driver-assist safety technologies include an Enhanced Driver Alert Package, available on the LT and LTZ trims and standard on the High Country. The package includes automatic high beams, Forward Collision Alert, a Lane Keep Assist system with Lane Departure Warning, a very helpful park assist feature that works when pulling in and backing out, and Low Speed Forward Automatic Braking. The 2018 Chevy Silverado also has Chevy’s Teen Driver System standard, which monitors the vehicle for speed, the number of times the driver-assist system issues alerts, and more.

A High-Value Used Pickup

The third generation Silverado 1500 represented a turning point in Chevrolet’s impressive truck heritage. The addition of connected features, along with several design tweaks and engine improvements, means that even today, this 2014-2018 series of Silverado models truly offers something for everyone. With the third generation Silverado series, Chevy demonstrated its understanding of how the pickup truck fits in with today’s buyer, including its relevance for families. Between the Silverado 1500’s impressive capabilities and the potential to equip it with tech and comfort features, the universe of buyers is instantly expanded and redefined. It’s a trend we expect will continue in the segment because the full-size pickup truck has earned a spot in many driveways that were previously occupied by an SUV.

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Have you been searching for a Chevy EV Dealer in Lexington? If so, visit Dan Cummins Chevrolet Buick in Paris, KY, to explore all the latest Chevy EV models. We are particularly excited about the recently-revealed, all-new 2022 Chevy Bolt EV. For months, there had been constant rumors and general speculations on what this second generation of the beloved Bolt EV would bring to the table. Now that the info is out in the open, does the new electric vehicle live up to the promised hype of making gasoline-free driving more affordable and available to the average driver? Let’s check it out.

On the surface, the new 2022 Bolt EV has very slight changes made to the exterior, and while the new look may be preferable to others, you won’t be second-guessing yourself on whether or not it’s a Bolt EV. The 2022 Bolt EUV that was announced alongside the redesigned Bolt EV brings SUV-like versatility to an electric vehicle for Chevy’s lineup. As a new model, the Bolt EUV is slated to be a popular-hit amongst Chevy fans, namely due to its ability to grant identical performance to the Bolt EV while retaining its larger size. The only downside to the Bolt EUV at the moment is a slightly shorter range, which caps out at about 250-miles on a single charge.

The most notable improvement of the new 2022 Bolt EV by far has to be its lower price point. Last year’s Bolt EV started with an MSRP of $36,500, and it’s been confirmed that the new model will be far cheaper with a starting price of just $31,995. This new level of accessibility grants millions of drivers an opportunity to get their foot in the door for electric vehicles, as many manufacturers have confirmed a substantial shift over to electric powertrains in the not too distant future.

Performance Capabilities

Given the already stellar performance of the updated 2021 Bolt EV, Chevy focused on improving other aspects of the 2022 model and reducing costs. What this ultimately means is that the 2022 Bolt EV will continue to have a range of 259-miles on a single charge. However, the previous generation of the Bolt EV already saw a range update a few years after launch, and we can expect the new Bolt EV to be updated over time as well. As previously mentioned, the 2022 Bolt EUV will provide 250-miles instead, which is a small tradeoff to get a larger vehicle.

This power plant is still capable of being recharged from any standard 120-volt household power outlet, and can be charged even more quickly from an option 240-volt three-prong outlet. However, Chevy is now promising to help drivers cover the cost of installing a 240-volt charging station, making driving an EV even easier than ever before.

Powering the 2022 Bolt EV is a combination of a motor and a 65-kWh battery pack, the latter of which is responsible for the vehicle’s excellent range. This duo makes for the same 200 hp and 266 lb-ft of torque as models that preceded it, giving the 2022 Bolt EV the same impressive performance and surprisingly quick acceleration as in previous model years. It’s worth noting that it’s been confirmed that the new 2022 Bolt EUV will output the same 200 hp as the Bolt EV, although the larger size of the vehicle will result in slightly reduced performance.

Interior Enhancements

Sitting inside of the new 2022 Bolt EV is when things start to feel a tad different. No longer is the steering wheel a regular circle shape – it now boasts a sporty design that flattens out on the bottom. Aside from looking spectacular, there are general benefits to driving with a steering wheel like this, such as better awareness of the positioning of your wheels. Also, if you happen to be a taller driver, this will grant you more spacious legroom, which is always a benefit.

Other interior enhancements include old favorites from the lineup, such as the energy-conserving One Pedal Driving along with a paddle behind the left side of the steering wheel for a feature called Regen on Demand. These two features work in tandem to help you regain and preserve energy while on the road. This year, Bluetooth and a 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot are still included for wireless media playback and a secure internet connection. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are back as well, but this time can be activated wirelessly, meaning all you’ll need with you is your smartphone, no tether required. Like previous years, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto both grant additional functions to your infotainment centers, such as hands-free phone calls and messaging, navigation, and more.

Ultimately, the infotainment center remains virtually unchanged for the most part against its predecessors. You’ll still find a standard 10.25-inch screen integrated into the cabin, which is still excellent, even by today’s standards. This is also the case for the new Bolt EUV as well, which is an excellent inclusion. Fortunately for Chevy, there was no real reason to upgrade this any further as it’s already ahead of the curve in a few ways. Screen size is an important factor that many drivers don’t consider when shopping for a vehicle with an infotainment center. A larger screen means greater reachability on the screen and offers far more screen visibility.

Even in the current day, many new vehicles are releasing with infotainment centers that range in screen size, whether it’s 5, 7, or 8-inches diagonally. Often, manufacturers will hold off on these features until you pay extra for a higher-tier trim. Regardless of this lack of changes, the 2022 Bolt EV still has one of the most feature-rich interiors within the price range.

Getting Ready For Launch

We hope you’re equally as excited about the launch of the 2022 Bolt EV and EUV as we are. If you’re looking for the perfect Chevy dealership to shop for one at, then come visit us at Dan Cummins Chevrolet Buick. New vehicles such as the upcoming 2022 models are accompanied by an assortment of pre-owned models, including CPOs. Our dealership is unlike any other in the area, and our selection is one of the best around, and our prices are competitive too. We’ve garnered a reputation in the greater area of Lexington, KY, and have earned our customers’ trust because both our vehicles and the service we offer are of equal quality.

At our dealership, we also offer an on-site service center, where you can get servicing jobs done on your vehicles, such as an oil change, tire alignment, or even more intense repairs. Our certified mechanics are always at the ready, and we also offer an on-site parts center should you be looking to order some extra vehicle parts for repairs or separate projects at home. In addition to our service center, we also have an on-site finance center for those who would like to apply for financing. Do you have an old vehicle you don’t want anymore? We can estimate your trade-in value and help you put it towards the purchase of your new Bolt EV or EUV. The future looks bright and clean with these new EV vehicles, and we can’t wait to share them with you.

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If you love to adventure among the mountains of America, you need a vehicle that is going to take you the extra mile. As your used auto dealer near Lexington, KY, we know the value of having a good truck that can take you to the Appalachian Mountains or to your favorite fishing spot. Kentuckians love to head off-road in a vehicle with power and aesthetic appeal. That’s why Chevy trucks are the trucks that Kentucky adventure enthusiasts need. Whether you’re looking for something small to off-road with, or you’re more interested in power and size, we’ve got you covered. Let’s dive in!

The Chevy Colorado

The Colorado is Chevy’s smaller truck option. You can get this model in either a two-door or four-door body with two-wheel drive or four-wheel drive. The standard Colorado is a good option if you like the truck life without the fuel economy pain. For example, a two-wheel drive 2017 Colorado can get as much as 22 miles per gallon in the city and 30 miles per gallon on the highway.

However, if towing capacity is important to you, a 2019 Z71 Colorado can tow as much as 7,600 pounds when fully equipped. They’re available in 4-cylinder, V6, V8, and diesel engine options, leaving room to go in either direction. The diesel variant is a nice happy medium between fuel economy and power, so keep that in mind if you’re open to driving a diesel.

We also expect that you are interested in off-roading, right? If that’s the case, any of these Colorado trims and years will work, but the Colorado ZR2 is designed specifically for the dirt and mud. This trim variant debuted in 2017, and it’s been going strong ever since. It has a standard V6 engine that produces up to 308 horsepower, it tows up to 5,000 pounds, which means it’s your go-to for pulling ATVs out of the mud, and its sprayed bedliner makes it perfect for hauling off-roading equipment and vehicles. Its rear vision camera is also nice for trailer hitching and mudding adventures. You can get this trim in either short or long box options.

If you visit your used auto dealer in Lexington, and you really want to go old school, the Colorado dates all the way back to 2007. These older versions still perform well, getting as much as 19 miles per gallon and towing as much as 4,000 pounds. This is a situation where going older doesn’t mean you’re hardcore downgrading.

Additionally, all Colorados come in a variety of colors, including beautiful forest greens and burnt orange shades. Oh, and if size matters when with smaller trucks, the good news about Chevy trucks is that they come in many different size options. So, if you want a short bed with a regular cab or a long bed with a double cab, you can make that happen. There are multiple configurations available for each model year. We highly recommend the Colorado for casual truck drivers who like to hit the dirt on the weekends.

The Chevy Silverado

If you thought there were a lot of options for the Colorado, you’ll be mind-blown about the Silverado. Let’s start by looking at the Silverado 1500. Overall, if you want something average-sized, this is your best bet. The Silverado 1500 can tow up to 13,300 pounds when properly equipped. It comes with many engine options, including a diesel engine, which is best for both towing and gas mileage. The Silverado 1500 has also been around since 2007, so there’s plenty of used Silverado variety out there. It really just depends on what aesthetic you’re looking for and what technology you prefer.

Basically, the newer your used model, the better when it comes to the Silverado’s appearance. For example, a 2016 Chevy Silverado 1500 comes in 8 different colors, including White Diamond Tricoat, Deep Ruby Metallic, Victory Red, Rainforest Green Metallic, Brownstone Metallic, Siren Red Tintcoat, Red Hot, and Iridescent Pearl Tricoat. An older model like the 2009 Silverado 1500 comes in Deep Ruby Metallic, Imperial Blue Metallic, Silver Birch, Victory Red, and Graystone Metallic, to name a few.

Newer Silverado models offer many add-on options, and they come with multiple wheel choices. These include black wheels, larger wheels, and chromed-out wheels. Many Silverados also include options for Chevy’s Midnight Edition package and its Sport Edition Package, which includes special aesthetic body additions. You can also find Silverados with the Z71 off-road package to get an off-roading aesthetic mixed with upgraded gear such as skid plates, dual exhaust, and much more.

Now, let’s go big. The Silverado HD is a powerhouse. If you want to show off, if you’re a farmer, or if you just really like jumping up into tall vehicles, this model is for you. The Silverado HD comes in 2500 and 3500 variants. The 2500 HD is the midpoint between the 1500 and the 3500 HD. Essentially, the 2500 HD provides all the strength that most people will need. However, the 3500 HD is the most powerful of all Chevrolet trucks. It’s built to work and work hard. These beasts can tow up to 36,000 pounds when properly equipped.

Like the smaller 1500 Silverado, the diesel engine performs best here, outperforming competitors in relation to fuel economy. These trucks are built solid with the latest tech and safety features. The Silverado HD also comes with trailering equipment options and a tow/haul mode, which protects the Silverado’s transmission, providing a safer towing experience.

If you’re interested in customizing this monster, you’re in luck. There are multiple trim options, and several package additions, along with singular add-ons. You can customize the aesthetic, sure, but you can also add trailering options such as 5th wheel hitches, ball mounts, and receiver hooks. When buying used, you won’t necessarily get to pick these out for yourself, but the good news is that someone else always has before you. If any specific customization options or packages stick out to you, talk to one of our sales reps, and they’re guaranteed to hook you up.

Which Truck Is Right for Me?

There are several appealing factors to each Chevy truck model we listed, so how do you pick which one is right for you? Most used auto dealers in Lexington will tell you to go big or go home, but we want you to consider what’s best for you. If the Colorado appeals to you the most, then that’s the truck you need to buy. There are many benefits to buying smaller trucks, like their better fuel economy, they’re easier to maneuver and park, and they provide more safety than a car. They’re still off-road capable, and they’re safe to drive during poor weather conditions, just like the Silverado is. In fact, their lighter weight can actually be better when driving in icy conditions.

However, if smaller trucks just don’t cut it for you, Silverados can do the trick. There’s a lot of variety with the Silverado model, starting with the 1500 and going all the way up to the 2500 and 3500 Silverado HDs. For those who are seeking average power, the 1500 and 2500 are great options, but the 3500 is best for those who plan to really put their truck to work. No matter what type of truck you want or need, we can help you find it. Visit our dealership and browse our amazing used truck inventory today.

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It’s easy to look at modern vehicles and assume that they have only been around a few decades, at most. In reality, however, when looking at something like a used Chevy Suburban, you can go back nearly 100 years and find a Suburban available. The Chevy Suburban is actually the longest-running model in the industry since it goes all the way back to 1933 and has been available every year since without interruption. That being said, the Suburban that first hit the road in the 1930s was more than a little different than the one we have available today, although not quite as different as you might expect.

Today, we thought it would be fun to take a look at the earliest models of the Chevy Suburban, as well as the most recent 2021 model, and see how they compare. We’ll tell you right now: there are some massive differences here, especially when it comes to performance. As you might expect, engines and other technology have come a long way in the last almost-90 years, and modern vehicles offer power that would’ve been unimaginable in the 1930s. But there are a few surprising similarities between these vehicles divided by such a long span of years.

The 1933 Chevy Suburban

To start with, let’s go all the way back to 1933 and the very first Chevy Suburban model, which was a far cry from the SUV we know today. That being said, if you saw this vehicle on the road, you’d probably call it an SUV, though it also looked quite a bit like a large station wagon. It was designed as competition to wagons being built by other manufacturers at the time, like Studebaker and Dodge, which is why it has the general look and feel of a large wagon.

The original 1933 Suburban featured mostly wood construction – the body was mainly made of wood and certainly doesn’t match what we expect from a vehicle today. That wooden body was built on a half-ton truck frame, much the same as modern SUVs (remember that crossover models are built on a car platform rather than a truck). So decades before the term “Sport Utility Vehicle” was being used, that’s exactly what the original Suburban was: an SUV. It was a large model with enough interior space for up to eight passengers, but it was not designed for use by the general public.

This original Suburban was meant for use by the Civilian Conservation Corps and the National Guard. So while this is officially the first Suburban, it wasn’t the first available for consumer sale. Similarly, the 1934 model was not generally available to the public, but it introduced a sheet metal body rather than the mostly wooden body of the 1933 model. It was known as the “Carryall Suburban” and featured a rear tailgate, not entirely unlike modern SUVs.

The 1935 Chevy Suburban

While the Suburban got its start in 1933, the 1935 model is considered by many to be the true first generation for the Suburban since this was when it started being produced and intended for sale to the general public. The functionality and benefits of such a large vehicle became clear pretty quickly, and the Suburban of the 1930s was just as popular with big families as the Suburban of the 2020s is today. Just like the previous models, the 1935 Suburban had seating for up to eight people: three in the front, two in the middle row, and three more in the rear seats.

One of the things that made this such a functional vehicle is that many of these seats were designed to be removable. So if you had a relatively small family of four, you could load up everyone and everything you needed for a picnic or weekend away with the kids. But you could also have plenty of seating for a night out with friends or social groups, making it very attractive to drivers in the 1930s. While a lot of the Suburban’s competitors still had mostly wooden bodies, the 1935 model retained its steel construction.

In terms of power, the Suburban of this time was impressive for its day, though it would not exactly be considered a beast now. The 1935 Chevy Suburban featured a 207 cu.in. (that’s about 3.4L) engine with an I-6 design (called the Blue Flame Six) that delivered up to 80 hp. Yes, that’s right: this light truck with seating for eight people could get up to 80 hp. Like we said, not exactly a powerhouse by today’s standards, but it did the trick 80+ years ago.

The 2021 Chevy Suburban

So how does all of that compare to the modern Chevy Suburban – or even a very recent used Chevy Suburban that you might find at a dealership? Well, let’s look at the 2021 model to fully appreciate just how far the Suburban has come. The 2021 Chevy Suburban is a large SUV, which is built on a truck platform just like its ancestors nearly 90 years ago – like we said, some things haven’t changed all that much.

It has seating for up to nine people these days – at least some models do; some have seating for eight or seven people instead. Depending on the trim and options you look at, a modern Suburban might have three rows of three-person seating, or a pair of front seats with two rows of three-person bench seats behind, or captain’s chairs in the front and second row, with a third-row bench seat. These seats can be lowered or even removed in some cases, giving you a ton of interior cargo space or passenger space – much like the original Suburban.

Perhaps the most noticeable change compared to the 1935 model is the engine (we’ll get to some tech features that would’ve been unimaginable 86 years ago in a moment). The modern Chevy Suburban has three different engines available, all of which are just slightly more powerful than that old Blue Flame Six. The standard engine is a 5.3L V8 that delivers up to 355 hp, while an available Duramax 3.0L Turbo-Diesel offers up to 277 hp and 460 lb-ft of torque. Finally, an available 6.2L V8 engine provides an impressive 420 hp, with a 10-speed automatic transmission that gives you a smoother drive than the manual on the 1930s I-6.

And of course, there’s all the technology that you’ll find in the 2021 Chevy Suburban. Every model comes with a 10-inch Infotainment display standard, with an available 8-inch digital driver information center, available 15-inch head-up display projected onto the front windshield, and an available Bose 10-speaker CenterPoint surround sound system. Remember that the first demonstrations of early televisions were in the 1920s. In 1933, people still primarily listened to radios at home, and color movies were barely even a thing – The Wizard of Oz was still 6 years away.

The idea of multiple HD displays and information projected onto the windshield would’ve been quite literally inconceivable to drivers at the time. Not to mention seatbelts, airbags, and active safety features like automatic emergency braking, rear park assist, and front pedestrian braking, all of which are standard on the 2021 Suburban. We’ve certainly come a long way.

Jump Behind the Wheel of History

Whether you’re interested in the latest model or prefer the idea of a used Chevy Suburban, we can help you find it. A 1933 model might be out of our reach, but come visit us for something a bit more modern. When you get behind the wheel of a Chevy Suburban of any year, you are getting behind the wheel of history in a vehicle that has seen the evolution of features and capability and still made it through. Visit us today and see what models of the Suburban we have in stock, test drive your favorites, and see why the Chevy Suburban has been able to persevere and stay in the hearts of drivers for almost 90 years.

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One of the biggest objections to embracing all-electric vehicle technology is the price. Early electric vehicles (EVs) were premium-priced and out of reach for most consumers, causing them to cross them off the consideration list early. Luckily, the first round of used EVs – like the used Chevy EV, the Bolt – are about to hit the market, creating an opportunity for budget-minded buyers.

EVs continue to become more affordable for buyers, but because battery technology is still evolving, manufacturers haven’t yet reached that sweet spot between innovative tech that works and price. It’s the same principle of how laptops and flat-screen TVs were expensive when they first launched but are now much more affordable thanks to manufacturing efficiencies and broadly available technology. EVs are beginning to be produced at a faster rate and in a broader scope, so pretty soon, prices for new models will drop into a more affordable price bracket.

General Motors has committed to manufacturing an all-electric vehicle lineup by 2025, which means the company is heavily focused on practices that will make these vehicles more affordable by default. They recently devoted an entire facility to the development and production of their Ultium line of scalable batteries, the same battery technology used in the Bolt EV. Luckily, consumers don’t have to wait for new vehicle prices to dip to budget-buyers’ threshold. The incoming used inventory of Bolt EVs are a great entry point, and with a range of over 200 miles, opting into the ever-growing family of all-electric vehicle owners has never made more sense.

The Bolt: Launched in 2017

2017 marked the year the all-electric Chevy Bolt hit dealerships. In that year, Chevrolet dealers sold 23,297 Bolts. Many new Bolt buyers elected to lease because Chevy offered a national 36-month lease deal of $329 a month to boost sales. Because of that, many of the 20,000+ end-of-lease 2017 Bolt EVs are returning to dealers as customers trade up for newer technology.

The 2017 Chevy Bolt is a technological marvel, but EV technology is changing so fast that older models quickly become less attractive to enthusiasts. That doesn’t mean you’ll compromise, though, because even at its launch, the Bolt EV offered impressive range and DC fast-charging options that made owning an EV convenient and easy.

And, because the Chevy Bolt EV lease program capped annual mileage at 15,000, this round of used 2017 Bolt EVs have plenty of life ahead of them. In fact, you can consider them ‘gently’ used. From a style perspective, the Bolt EV hasn’t changed, so your 2017 model looks as current as the newest model. We expect a serious redesign sometime in the not-too-distant future, but the most Chevy has planned so far is a refresh for the 2022 model year, giving the Bolt EV a mildly sportier look and a few extras on the interior.

Transition to EV

Buyers looking to abandon gas-powered cars for an all-electric version are in for a treat because owning an EV has so many perks. First and foremost, you will never – ever – visit a gas station again unless you’re buying a Gatorade or a bag of M&M’s for your road trip. There’s nothing quite so satisfying as driving by the fuel pump.

Next, because the national network of charging stations is growing exponentially, charging your EV is more convenient than ever. With the Bolt EV, your over 200-mile driving range means that you’ll likely go days without needing to charge, and road trips are easy, thanks to GM’s myChevrolet mobile app and Energy Assist. Energy Assist lets drivers plan routes, project range, and locate charging stations along the way.

GM has added EVgo, a pay-as-you-go solution that links your bank account and lets you pay conveniently at eligible charging stations. So how many charging stations are there? Currently, there are over 40,000 stations nationwide, many of which are equipped with DC fast-charging capability, but that number is growing all the time.

Driving an EV doesn’t mean you’ll sacrifice performance. In fact, the 2017 Bolt EV delivers impressive off-the-line acceleration. The truth is that EVs offer much of the same capability as their regular gasoline counterparts, and as technology gets better, so too does performance. In fact, the 2017 Bolt EV reaches sixty miles an hour from zero in just 6.3 seconds.

Last, EVs don’t need motor oil. In fact, EV technology eliminates a couple of dozen mechanical parts that require routine maintenance. Skip the spark plugs, oil filter, and belts. They’re all in the past. Your EV will still need regularly scheduled maintenance but expect to do about two-thirds less than you would with a gas-powered car.

What to Expect When You Buy Used

One unexpected factor with used EVs is their rate of depreciation. Some calculate that EVs depreciate faster earlier, probably because of the rapid technological advancements the industry sees every year. Either way, this is great news for used Bolt EV buyers. Buying new means you’ll take on the depreciation – primarily in the first year of ownership. If you’re buying a one, two, or even three-year-old vehicle, that stage has passed. The vehicle’s value will stabilize, and you’ll end up getting a great bargain.

Also, as a first-time EV buyer, you shouldn’t be as concerned with getting cutting edge technology. You’re dipping your toe in the EV waters, so it’s probably enough in this first ownership round to have a car that delivers in range and charging speed, a car like the Bolt EV. That way, you can pay a budget price and leave the pain of depreciation to the early adopters.

Don’t worry too much that the rapid depreciation is a sign that the vehicles aren’t valuable; in fact, the numbers don’t tell the entire story. When EVs were first launched, many states – and the Federal government – offered purchase incentives and rebates that significantly lowered the price of the vehicle. These incentives were designed to bridge the gap between the cost of manufacturing and the EV’s high early price tag, encouraging buyers to give them a try. So that premium price was offset and not a reflection of the vehicle’s actual value.

Enter the EV Market in a Used Chevy EV

It’s a great time to enter the EV market. With one of the world’s largest automakers committing to an all-electric lineup by 2025, it’s a guarantee that charging facilities will continue popping up across the country, making ownership convenient. The ongoing quest to reduce our carbon footprint starts with reducing emissions, so every EV buyer gets us closer to a zero-emission future.

The new EV market is still made up of mostly higher-end, high priced vehicles. However, we expect technological advancements and manufacturing innovation to continue driving prices down, but until then, seeking a used all-electric car is a great way to get your feet wet. The line of Bolt EVs is widely-recognized for impressive range, reliability, and adorable styling, so it’s a great place to start.

Get Your Used EV at Dan Cummins Chevrolet Buick

The 2017 Chevy Bolt EV marked a turning point in General Motors’ history. As the first mass-produced, mass-appeal, budget EV, the Bolt EV put electric vehicle technology within reach of most buyers. In other words, the Bolt EV made electric cars mainstream. The Bolt EV’s 60 kWh lithium-ion battery takes you roughly 238 miles per charge, and the on-board display tells you the average based on your driving (speed, incline, etc.). Thanks to DC fast charging, you’ll power up at a rate of 90 miles per 30 minutes of charge, meaning the entire country is yours to explore without ever worrying about running out of battery.

If you are ready to make the switch to electric power, then come visit us and let us find you the perfect used Chevy EV. Our outstanding sales team can help you find the EV that will fit your lifestyle at a price you can actually afford. Plus, our service team can help you keep it running smoothly while you own it. Visit us at 1020 M.L.K. Jr Blvd in Paris, KY, and step into the future of vehicle technology.

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