2015 GM Model Changes

Let’s take a look at what’s new for GM for 2015:

BUICK:

Verano: For 2015, the base model Buick Veranos get newly-styled seventeen-inch alloy wheels. A manual transmission option is now only available on the Turbo Premium model.

Regal: For 2015, the Buick Regal sees no changes.

LaCrosse: For 2015, the Buick LaCrosse sees no changes.

Encore: For 2015, some of the Buick Encore models get new equipment packages.

Enclave: For 2015, the base price of the Buick Enclave increases due to the discontinuation of the Convenience Group (the Leather Group is now the base model Enclave).

CADILLAC:

ATS: For 2015, the Cadillac ATS Sedan is joined by a Coupe model. All models get a new front grille as well. A glove box-mounted CD/MP3/DVD/DVD Audio player is now available on the Cadillac CUE System-equipped ATS Coupes and Sedans.An ATS-V model will debut for 2016.

CTS: For 2015, the CTS-V Coupe gets one final run with a Special Edition. The CTS-V Sedan and Sports Wagon are both discontinued, as are the regular CTS Coupe and Sports Wagon.  The front grille is changed on the Sedan model, and new wheel options are available. A glove box-mounted CD/MP3/DVD/DVD Audio player is now available on the Cadillac CUE System-equipped CTS Sedans. The CTS-V Sedan model returns for 2016.

ELR: For 2015, the ELR sees no changes, as it was an all-new model for 2014. The ELR, however, may see a new front fascia, as all Cadillac models are being restyled for 2015.

XTS: For 2015, the XTS sees no changes, other than a new front grille.

SRX: For 2015, the SRX sees no changes, other than a new front grille midyear. 

Escalade/ESV: For 2015, the Cadillac Escalade and Escalade ESV are both fully redesigned. Later in the year, Platinum models debut, and the front grilles on both models are revised.

CHEVROLET:

Spark/EV: For 2015, the Chevrolet Spark and Spark EV see no changes.

Sonic/RS: For 2015, the Chevrolet Sonic RS sees no changes.The MyLink Entertainment System and six speaker sound system option is no longer available on the base 1LS models. An RS-style rear spoiler is available on all models.

Cruze/Eco/Diesel: For 2015, while the rest of the world sees an all-new, second-generation Chevrolet Cruze, the North American model Cruze only gets restyled in the front and rear ends, and gets a slightly new interior. The previously-available Pioneer Premium Audio System on the Eco model is no longer available. The Pioneer Premium Audio System continues to be available on all models but the 1LS and Eco, though it is only available as part of the Sunroof and Sport Package. 2LT and higher models get new standard tire and wheel combinations. Expect to see the formal debut of the all-new, second-generation 2016 Chevrolet Cruze at the 2015 North American International Auto Show.

Malibu: For 2015, the Chevrolet Malibu Eco model is discontinued.The Pioneer premium sound system is no longer standard on the LTZ (1LZ/3LZ) models, and is now only available as part of a Navigation and Entertainment Package on these models.A new base L model slots below the previously-base LS (1LS) model, and is only available with the six-speed manual transmission, lowering the base price of the Cruze. The Diesel model is also no longer available with the six-speed manual transmission.

Impala: For 2015, the Chevrolet Impala Eco model is discontinued.

Camaro/ZL-1/Z-28: For 2015, the Chevrolet Camaro lineup sees little changes.

Corvette Stingray/Z-06: For 2015, the high-performance Chevrolet Corvette Z-06 is reintroduced, and for the first time ever with either an automatic or a manual transmission as options. Regular Chevrolet Corvette Stingray models see a new eight-speed automatic transmission to replace the old seven-speed automatic transmission. On base Corvette Stingray models, options from the Z-51 Performance Package can be optioned up individually. Valet Mode is now an option, though it will be available later in the Model Year, as it was required to be updated in order to meet federal standards.

SS: For 2015, the new-for-2014 Chevrolet SS sees little changes, though sports-car enthusiasts can now rejoice: a six-speed manual transmission is now available on the SS. New exterior paint colors are also available on the SS for 2015. 

Trax: For 2015, the Chevrolet Trax is introduced to North America. An all-new model that shares a platform with the Buick Encore and Opel/Vauxhall Mokka, the Trax is aimed at customers wanting the fuel economy of a compact sedan, but the versatility of a compact SUV.  It will be available early 2015.

Equinox: For 2015, the Chevrolet Equinox sees no changes, though the Chrome Package is now available on some models.The base LS (1LS) model also sees standard black-painted side view mirrors, replacing the previously-standard exterior color-painted side view mirrors.

Traverse: For 2015, the Chevrolet Traverse sees no changes.

Suburban/Tahoe: For 2015, the Chevrolet Suburban and Tahoe are both all-new, along with their Cadillac and GMC siblings. A Z/71 Off-Road Edition Package for the LT and LTZ models will be available midyear 2015.

Colorado: Along with its GMC Canyon sibling, the Chevrolet Colorado is reintroduced for 2015, with more power and features than ever before. It arrives fall 2014 as an early 2015 model.

Silverado 1500: For 2015, the new-for-2014 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 sees available appearance packages. The door handles and side-view mirrors on 1LT models that were painted black for 2014 are now color-keyed to the exterior paint color for 2015. The 2W/T model is renamed the 1LS model, and therefore, the 1W/T Appearance Package is now discontinued.

Silverado HD: For 2015, the Chevrolet Silverado HD, along with its GMC sibling, is fully redesigned, with design cues from the light-duty Chevrolet Silverado 1500.

Express City: For 2015, Chevrolet gets a compact cargo van to compete with the likes of the Ford Transit Connect, but it’s not a Chevrolet. In fact, its basic design, aside from the Chevy Bowtie styling cues, is shared with the Nissan NV200 Compact Cargo Van that has been on sale in North America since 2013. The van will go on sale in late 2014 as an early 2015 Model Year vehicle.

Express: For 2015, the Chevrolet Express 1500 and the 4.3L V6 are both quietly dropped. Power windows and door locks are now standard on all models, though they can still be deleted for credit. An A/M-F/M stereo with auxiliary audio input jack is now standard on the LS (1LS) Passenger Van models.

GMC:

Terrain/Denali: For 2015, the GMC Terrain and Terrain Denali see no changes.

Acadia/Denali: For 2015, the GMC Acadia and Acadia Denali see no changes.

Yukon/XL/Denali/XL Denali: For 2015, like their Cadillac and Chevrolet siblings, the GMC Yukon lineup is fully redesigned for 2015.

Canyon: For 2015, joined by its Chevrolet Colorado sibling, the GMC Canyon is reintroduced. Unfortunately, a Denali model is not yet planned.Crew Cab models will initially only be available, though Extended Cab models will join the Crew Cab models in early Fall 2014.

Sierra 1500/Denali: For 2015, the new-for-2014 GMC Sierra 1500 and Sierra 1500 Denali get only appearance packages.

Sierra HD/Denali HD: For 2015, like their Chevrolet siblings, the GMC Sierra HD lineup is fully redesigned for 2015, with styling cues from the light-duty GMC Sierra 1500 lineup.

Savanna: For 2015, the GMC Savanna 1500 and the 4.3L V6 are both quietly dropped. Power windows and door locks are now standard on all models. though they can still be deleted for credit. An A/M-F/M stereo with auxiliary audio input jack is now standard on the LS (1LS) Passenger Van.

2015 Ford and Lincoln Model Changes

Let’s take a look at what’s new for Ford and Lincoln vehicles for 2015:

FORD:

Fiesta/ST: All-new for 2014, the Ford Fiesta doesn’t get any changes for 2015.

Focus/Electric/ST: For 2015, the Ford Focus gets a mid-cycle restyling with a new front end, new tire and wheel combinations, and a revised interior. A three-cylinder turbocharged EcoBoost engine is due to debut midyear 2015.

Fusion/Hybrid/Energi: For 2015, the Ford Fusion gets little changes. The base S model trades its sixteen-inch steel wheels with wheel covers for stylish sixteen-inch alloy wheels.The SE model, when equipped with the 2.0L EcoBoost Turbocharged I4 engine, gets standard eighteen-inch sport-style alloy wheels.

Mustang: For 2015, Ford debuts their all-new sixth-generation Mustang, just in time for its 50^TH anniversary, which is commemorated by a 50^TH Anniversary Appearance Package. Also, 1,964 2014.5 Mustangs will be manufactured. Engines carry over from 2014, though a 2.3L EcoBoost turbocharged I4 is new, and the 5.0L V8 gains more power and torque. The Shelby GT500 model is gone for now, but the Shelby GT350 model debuted at the 2014 Los Angeles Auto Show, which will go on sale in mid 2015 as an early 2016 Model Year vehicle. The Coupe model is renamed the Fastback. Ford SYNC is now standard across all Mustang models, as is SIRIUS-XM Satellite Radio.

C-Max/Energi: While the rest of the world gets a restyled Ford C-Max for 2015, the North American model remains unchanged.

Taurus: For 2015, the Ford Taurus gets no changes, though the Sony premium surround-sound system is no longer standard on the Limited and SHO models. 

Escape: For 2015, the Ford Escape S model gets optional seventeen-inch alloy wheels.A new SE Chrome Edition Package adds exclusive nineteen-inch chrome-plated alloy wheels, chrome door and tailgate handles, and chrome mirror caps, as well as chrome front fascia accents and chrome-accented roof rails, to the base SE model. An SE Leather Package now allows SE buyers to have powered and heated leather seating surfaces on the model. The Sony Premium Sound System is now no longer available on the SE model. Eighteen-inch chrome-plated alloy wheels from the Titanium model are now available on the SE model, regardless of package choices.

Edge: For 2015, Ford unveiled its all-new second-generation Ford Edge, which will go on sale in early 2015.

Explorer: For 2015, the Ford Explorer gets little changes; though the Base model trades its eighteen-inch steel wheels with wheel covers for the eighteen-inch alloy wheels found on the XLT model. The 2015 Explorer will have a short production run, though, as a newly-restyled 2016 model, which debuted at the 2014 Los Angeles Auto Show, offering a new 2.3L EcoBoost Turbocharged I4 engine and a new Platinum model with unique features, will go on sale in mid-2015.

Flex: For 2015, the Ford Flex doesn’t get any changes.

Expedition/EL: For 2015, the Ford Expedition and Expedition EL get their first restyling since their 2007 introduction, but the biggest news is the introduction of a new 3.5L EcoBoost supercharged V6 to replace the 5.4L Triton V8 previously available.

Transit Connect: Redesigned last year, the 2015 Ford Transit Connect gets no changes.

Transit: Proven successful in Europe for six decades, the Ford Transit replaces the Ford E-Series for 2015, which hadn’t been redesigned since 1992, as hard as it is to believe. Three engines are available: a 3.5L naturally-aspirated V6, a 3.7L EcoBoost turbocharged V6, and a Power Stroke 3.5L turbocharged I5.

E-Series: For 2015, the Ford E-Series has been discontinued, replaced by the Ford Transit.

F-150: For 2015, the Ford F-150 is fully redesigned, and is now in its twelfth generation. Offering three engine choices, an aluminum construction (the frame is still steel, of course), and more options to choose from, the new F-150 should be a hit.

F-Series Super Duty and Chassis Cabs: For 2015, the Ford F-Series Super Duty and Chassis Cabs are improved, with an improved King Ranch model and more power and torque for the 6.7L Power Stroke turbocharged diesel V8.

LINCOLN:

MKZ: For 2015, the Lincoln MKZ Hybrid is no longer priced the same as the standard gasoline-only MKZ models.A new 'Lincoln Black Label Collection' allows an MKZ buyer to choose from additional exterior colors with unique interior color schemes, and four unique 'collections'. Buyers of these vehicles also get concierge services not regularly offered to Lincoln buyers, including restaurant reservations, in-home delivery, and personalized service options.

MKS: For 2015, the Lincoln MKS is not expected to get any changes.                    

MKC: The Lincoln MKC is an all-new vehicle for 2015, based on the Ford Escape. As Lincoln’s first compact SUV, the MKC is the least expensive Lincoln model offered, and provides the luxury features that even the Ford Escape Titanium doesn’t offer. The 'Black Label Collection' allows an MKC buyer to choose from additional exterior colors with unique interior color schemes, and four unique 'collections'. Buyers of these vehicles also get concierge services not regularly offered to Lincoln buyers, including restaurant reservations, in-home delivery, and personalized service options.

MKX: For 2016, the Lincoln MKX, like its Ford Edge sibling, enters its second generation, and will go on sale in Spring 2015. In the meantime, the 2015 MKX gets additional options and packages and a lower starting MSRP. The 2015 MKX will have a short production run as production of the 2016 MKX starts up in early 2015.

MKT: For 2015, the Lincoln MKT gets no changes.

Navigator/L: For 2015, like their Ford Expedition and Expedition EL siblings, the Lincoln Navigator and Navigator L get their first restyling since their 2007 introduction, but the 5.4L Triton V8 that was previously available is now replaced by a  new 3.5L EcoBoost turbocharged V6.

2015 Chrysler, Dodge, Fiat Jeep, and RAM Changes

For this week’s installment of Vincent’s Auto Reviews, we’ll be reviewing the changes to Chrysler’s 2015 vehicle lineup.

CHRYSLER:

200: For 2015, the Chrysler 200 gets a redesign, with an all-new platform based on the successful Dodge Dart’s Compact U.S. Wide platform, which, in turn, is based on the Alfa Romeo Giuletta platform. With a new I4 engine, a class-exclusive nine-speed automatic transmission as standard equipment, and standard keyless access with push-button start, there’s no doubt that the newest 200 will sell in large numbers. V6-equipped models get Stop-Start as standard equipment.The previous S Package is now a separate trim level for 2015, and a 200 C is available.

300: The restyled 2015 Chrysler 300 was unveiled in December 2014, and is scheduled to go on sale in January 2015. The new 300 will retain the class-leading standard features, such as leather seating surfaces and a touch-screen audio system, but gains Chrysler's latest-generation U Connect infotainment systems, and larger, eighteen-inch standard alloy wheels. All-wheel-drive is still available, though only on V6-powered models. All models get the eight-speed automatic transmission. The SRT Core and SRT Premium models are discontinued for now, along with the 6.4L HEMI V8 MDS/VCT V8 engine, though Dodge's SRT Hellcat models take their place.

Town and Country: For 2015, the Chrysler Town and Country reintroduces its previously-discontinued LX model, offering a lower price point and more standard features. The price of the LX model will match that of the 2015 Dodge Grand Caravan R/T. The 30^TH Anniversary Edition model is now dropped. The top-of-the-line Limited model is renamed Limited Platinum.

200 Convertible: For 2015, the Chrysler 200 Convertible has been discontinued due to slow sales.

DODGE:

Dart: For 2015, the Dodge Dart SXT gets new standard sixteen-inch alloy wheels and exterior color front fascia, replacing the previously-standard black-finished front fascia. The base model SE’s price is increased, but more standard features now come as part of the SE Convenience Package.

Avenger: For 2015, the Dodge Avenger has been discontinued due to slow sales, though it is slated to reappear in 2016 as a rear-wheel-drive performance sedan. The Dart Aero gets the standard 8.4-inch U Connect touch-screen radio, and on all models, the previously-standard CD/MP3 player is now optional.

Challenger: For 2015, the Dodge Challenger gets even better. A new SRT Hellcat model adds a high-performance V8 engine, while new packages are available. Audio system options are revised, and so are the tire and wheel combinations and interior style and color options. A new split front grille pays tribute to the original 1971 model. Automatic transmission-equipped models are now eight-speed and six-speed manual transmission option remains, of course.

Charger: For 2015, the Dodge Charger gets a mid-cycle restyling, featuring a new front end and revised rear tail lamps. The audio system options are also revised, as are tire and wheel combinations. A new SRT Hellcat model adds a high-performance V8 engine, and the eight-speed automatic transmission becomes standards across all Charger models. All-wheel-drive continues to be available, though only on V6-powered models. The R/T is now a single model, with Plus and Premium Packages available, though the R/T Road and Track Edition remains. The SRT and SRT Hellcat models are late availability, due to be available in Spring 2015.

Grand Caravan: For 2015, the Dodge Grand Caravan SE and SXT 30^TH Anniversary Edition models are dropped.

Journey: For 2015, an all-wheel-drive option for the SE model is now available, and a Chrome Appearance Package is now available on AVP and SE models.

Durango: Restyled for 2014, the Dodge Durango gets no changes for 2015.

FIAT:

500/500c/Abarth: For 2015, the Fiat 500, 500c, and Abarth models get revised front styling and a color instrument cluster display, though the color instrument cluster display is optional on the 500/500c Pop models. The Abarth models finally get an automatic transmission option. The 500S is no longer available for 2015. A new Ribelle model, based on the base Pop model, is now available for the 500 Hatchback, and adds black-finished alloy wheels and a red-painted roof.

500e: For 2015, the Fiat 500e gets no changes, as it was all-new for 2014.

500L: An all-new model for 2015, the Fiat 500L is expected to not get any changes for 2015, though the no-cost Value Packages for the Easy, Trekking, and Lounge models are no longer free of charge packages on these models.

500X: Based on the Jeep Renegade, the all-new Fiat 500X is an all-new model that will go on sale in late 2015 as an early 2016 Model Year vehicle.It is the first Fiat model that is available with four-wheel-drive in the United States.

JEEP:

Compass/Patriot: For 2015, the Jeep Compass and Jeep Patriot get a High Altitude Edition model.

Renegade: The Jeep Renegade is an all-new model for 2015, introducing younger buyers and international buyers as well into the Jeep lineup. It will share its platform with the all-new 2015 Fiat 500X, which will be unveiled in late 2014 as an early 2015 new model. The Altitude and High Altitude Edition models get a 4X4 option.

Cherokee: Introduced in 2014, the V6-equipped Jeep Cherokees get Stop-Start as standard equipment. Light Frost Beige replaces Iceland Gray as an interior color option.

Grand Cherokee: Restyled for 2014, Active Noise Cancelling is now an option on the Jeep Grand Cherokee. The SRT model gets more power, despite having an SRT Hellcat model available (at least not yet). The Altitude Edition and Limited models now has a standard six-speaker non-premium sound system, with the Alpine premium surround-sound system option becoming optional.The SRT model gets a Red Vapor Package, which adds Satin Carbon-painted twenty-inch alloy wheels and a red-and-black two-tone leather/suede interior to the base SRT model.

Wrangler/Unlimited: For 2015, a standard tool kit makes roof removal on the Jeep Wrangler and Jeep Wrangler Unlimited easier. The Alpine premium surround-sound system available on other Chrysler models is now available on every model of the 2015 Jeep Wrangler and Jeep Wrangler Unlimited. The base Wrangler Sport gets an optional Bridgestone Dueler Wheel/Tire Package, which replaces the standard sixteen-inch silver-painted steel wheels and standard tires with 31"x16" Bridgestone Dueler All-Terrain tires and sixteen-inch black-painted steel wheels. The Rubicon X model is renamed the Rubicon Hard Rock, and the Willy's Wheeler and Willy's Wheeler X get the previously-optional Connectivity Package as standard equipment for 2015, which adds U Connect Bluetooth Hands-Free, an A/M-F/M stereo with CD/MP3 and auxiliary input jack and USB port, plus SIRIUS-XM Satellite Radio with a one-year trial subscription.

RAM:

1500: For 2015, the RAM 1500 is expected to not get any changes.

2500/3500: For 2015, RAM 2500 and RAM 3500 models equipped with the Cummins Turbo Diesel engine have increased power and torque.

Chassis Cabs: For 2015, RAM Chassis Cab models equipped with the Cummins Turbo Diesel engine have increased power and torque.

ProMaster: For 2015, the RAM ProMaster is expected to not get any changes, as it was all-new for 2014.

C/V: For 2015, the RAM C/V is expected to get no changes.

ProMaster City: For 2015, a Fiat Doblo-based Ram ProMaster City will compete with Ford’s Transit Connect and Nissan’s NV200 Compact Cargo Van, available early 2015.