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From buying a car to helping ensure that said car continues to run smoothly for thousands of miles to come, the dealership you choose matters. While there may be many Chevy dealers in Bethlehem, PA, you should seek automotive guidance and care from a team of auto professionals who have your best interest in mind. But what should you expect from a top-notch, customer-first, dealer? At Raceway Chevy, we are a clear example of why going to a dealership you trust truly pays off. We’re home to a team of automotive experts who will not only help you find the car of your dreams but can help you take care of that vehicle for the long-run. While your local discount auto shop or corner retailer may seem appealing at first glance, we’re here to tell you all of the benefits that can come from frequenting dealers like ours at Raceway Chevy. The Nuances of the Auto Buying Process Whether you’re interested in buying a car brand new or pre-owned, there are a variety of things to take into account when purchasing a vehicle. On top of that, there are a number of benefits that can come from buying at a dealership over purchasing your vehicle from a small local retailer. For one, a dealership can provide you with greater financial resources than your typical individual seller. Your established dealership is going to provide far more in the way of incentives, deals, and financial leeway than many small auto dealers. These incentives can result in reduced pricing, special financing offers, and even potential leasing opportunities. And some dealerships even act as financial institutions, wherein you can finance directly from the dealership. While setting up your auto financing in such a way can come with its own caveats, the option of being able to do so can be incredibly beneficial to anyone who may have a less than favorable credit score. Needless to say, if you’re worried at all about finances, purchasing from a reputable dealership can increase your chances of ending with a deal that fulfills your every budgetary expectation. Purchasing from a reputable dealership is particularly useful for buyers who are considering buying pre-owned. While you may be able to haggle more with someone selling their vehicle, dealerships that also specialize in pre-owned auto retail can better ensure that the car you're getting is reliable. This fact is particularly true if you decide to purchase a Certified Pre-Owned model. Certified Pre-Owned vehicles are pre-owned models that have made it back to the manufacturer for a multi-point inspection. These inspections are incredibly thorough, checking for everything from the headlights to the tires, to ensure that every aspect of the car is functioning properly. By the time it ends up on a dealership lot, you’ll get a car that feels as good as new and can be purchased alongside a pretty comprehensive warranty program. The details of these warranty programs can vary depending on what and where you buy; however, they can provide some serious peace of mind behind the wheel. Of course, one of the major benefits of purchasing from a dealership that you trust is the option to browse a wide selection of vehicles. An established dealership is going to have a plethora of models to choose from, and will also have a team that is dedicated to showing you each vehicle in excruciating detail. These dealers can help you embark on test-drives that allow you to truly analyze whether or not the car in question is the right fit for you. These dealers are trained to put your needs and expectations first and foremost, and at Raceway Chevy, in particular, we emphasize our efforts in helping our customers feel welcomed and confident throughout the car buying process. Whether you’re in need of an auto lease, an auto loan, or if you want to purchase a pre-owned vehicle straight from our showroom with cash, a reputable Chevy dealer, like those found at Raceway Chevy, can help you realize your every car buying vision. Going to a Reputable Dealership for Auto Maintenance A reputable dealership will also go that extra mile to ensure that your car isn’t just a good fit, but they’ll also work to make sure that your car continues to run without issue. While a vehicle may seem reliable and durable at first glance, they undergo quite a lot of wear and tear from the road and will likely require repair at some point or another. Even the Chevy brand cars that we offer in our showroom at Raceway Chevy will at least require regular inspections and check-ups. That said, we also are home to a service and parts center that hosts a team of auto technicians who are well-versed on everything mechanics related. Some of the services that we provide include essentials like oil changes, tire rotations, and transmission flushes. Now at first glance, it can seem tempting to want to seek maintenance from a discount auto shop, and it makes sense. Sometimes, these automotive services can seem rather extensive, and the idea of a potentially cheaper option can appear quite appealing. That said, some of these discount auto shops may not have the equipment to handle your particular vehicle. This fact is especially true if you’re in need of replacement parts. Whether you’re modifying your vehicle for off-roading, or are seeking specific components that your engine requires for day-to-day function, you’ll want to ensure that the replacement component is an OEM or original equipment manufacturer part. Aftermarket or third party components can seem pretty tempting, especially in terms of price, but there’s no guarantee that these components will work with your vehicle. At Raceway Chevy or any other reputable dealership, you can expect their services department to only use OEM parts that will work with your vehicle. A trustworthy dealership will also provide servicing incentives and specials that can make maintenance as affordable as it can be found at any discount auto shop. The Benefits of Shopping at Raceway Chevy Regardless of if you’re buying a new car or looking to service your existing one, you shouldn’t rely on just any dealership or auto services provider. Instead, you should choose a team of auto professionals who’ve got your back no matter what, and you can find just that at Raceway Chevy. We’re more than your average auto provider, and will stop at nothing to ensure that you’re 100% satisfied. As a modern auto dealer, we provide a plethora of services online via our website. When you visit us virtually, you’ll be able to browse our extensive collection of Chevy brand vehicles and discuss things in real-time. We are proud to offer the complete car buying experience online, which means you can purchase a new Chevy brand vehicle from the comfort of your home. All you have to do is browse our online inventory, find the car of your dreams, schedule a test drive, then apply for financing online; it’s really that easy. At Raceway Chevy in Bethlehem, PA, we’re thrilled to help you make the most out of your automotive experience, regardless of what you’re looking for.

Those of us who choose to lease a car have all been there before. We look at the calendar and realize that the lease on our car, truck, or SUV is about to end. Aside from realizing it is time to consider leasing a new car, we also have to start preparing to return our current leased car. Unlike returning an apartment at the end of the lease, it is not as simple as just showing up and handing over the keys along with the car. There are things you must do and steps to take to get ready for the end of lease turn-in. There's an old saying "forewarned is forearmed," meaning that having prior knowledge of possible problems and issues gives you a tactical advantage. At Raceway Chevy in Bethlehem, PA, we understand that returning a leased car can be stressful, which is why we stand ready to help you in this process. Today we are going to go over how to prepare for the end of lease turn-in and what the process looks like. Getting Ready for the Inspection You are nearing the last four months of your lease, and you have decided it doesn't make sense to renew the lease or buy the car. Now you have to get ready for the process to begin. The first step is to do your own inspection of the car. Check to make sure that you have all the parts to the vehicle. Things like spare tire covers, jacks, cigarette lighters, and other removable items can sometimes be misplaced or lost during the years when you had possession of the car. If you cannot locate a missing part, it may be more cost-effective to go to the dealership or an auto parts store to replace the part yourself, rather than pay the fee when you turn the vehicle in. If you notice there is damage on the interior or exterior of the car, you should go to a qualified mechanic to at least get an estimate for the repair of the dent, ding, scratch, or stain. And oftentimes, it is reasonable to have it fixed ahead of time as well. Additionally, if you had any aftermarket parts added to your car by anyone other than the dealer who leased you the vehicle, you should have these parts removed and replaced. For example, many people add aftermarket trailer hitches to their trucks and SUVs. These should be removed by a professional, and the vehicle returned to its original condition. Keep in mind that you can and will be charged for any excess wear and tear on your vehicle. Clean Your Vehicle One thing that is actually much like returning a leased apartment has to do with your belongings. We all accumulate stuff in our cars over time, like maps, napkins, headphones, CDs, and phone jacks. Try to do a thorough job of going through your vehicle to remove all of your personal belongings. In addition, just like returning an apartment swept, take the time to clean the inside of your vehicle. It shouldn't take that long. All you need is a portable vacuum cleaner and a box of wipes. Vacuum all the surfaces and wipe down all the surfaces. It is amazing how a clean car can help when it is time for the inspection. The Inspection About 90 days before the end of your lease, the leasing company will notify you about the end of the lease. Read this notice thoroughly and follow each instruction. In addition, make sure to do everything as soon as possible. If the instructions are to contact your dealer, then call the dealer immediately. If the leasing company is handling the return, then contact them. All of this will be explained in the notice. One thing that will happen is that an independent inspector will come to your home or office to inspect your leased vehicle. Make arrangements to fit this into your schedule. The independent inspector will take the time to do a thorough job, so budget between 45 minutes and one hour for the inspection. You will not be responsible for ordinary wear and tear like reduced tire tread depth. However, the inspector will measure all the damage on the vehicle. That means he or she will check on every interior burn, cut, tear, or stain and every exterior puncture, dent, and ding. The inspector will also check to see if there are any missing or broken parts (including copies of driver's manuals), cracks and stars in the windshield, and cracks in lights and turn signals. Finally, the inspector will make sure there is no malfunctioning mechanical or electronic equipment, that all repairs used standard parts, and that there are no unauthorized modifications. This can include changes in color, modifications to the suspension, any tinting or engraving in the glass, and any changes to the engine or fuel system. After the inspection, you will receive a copy of the report that will list any damages that you will be charged for, including failing to take care of the car with routine oil changes and maintenance properly. That is why if you have kept a maintenance log on your vehicle, you should share a copy with the inspector. If you do not agree with the results of the report, you can undertake to make some of the repairs in the report and then request a second-chance inspection. In most cases, the amounts requested in the inspector's report will be reasonable, especially if you have properly maintained the vehicle during the lease period. What About Mileage? When you first leased the vehicle, you and the dealer agreed on the number of miles you could put on your car during each lease year. Typically, this will range between 10,000 and 15,000 miles per year. Keep in mind that if you bargained for a lower monthly lease payment, it was likely in exchange for lower annual mileage. If you have excess mileage, you will be charged by your leasing company. The amount is not difficult to calculate. Check your lease agreement to find out the per-mile charge. First, calculate the number of excess miles by subtracting the amount on your car's odometer by the number of miles you were allowed under the lease agreement. Then, take this number and multiply it by the per-mile charge to determine the potential excess mileage charge. This should give you an idea about how much you will owe for excess mileage. The Day of the Return Based on the instructions you received, you will either be driving your leased car to the dealership or another specified location. Bring the vehicle to the correct place and take one more look inside the vehicle and the compartments to make sure you have taken out all of your personal belongings. You will then be presented with some documents and walked through what your options are if you want to continue with the dealership through purchase or another lease. Returning a leased vehicle can be extremely stressful. If you prepare for the turn-in day as outlined above, things should go as smoothly as possible. Plus, if you are leasing with Raceway Chevy, our dedicated team will be there to help you every step of the way. Are you at the end of your lease? Visit Raceway Chevy so we can help you find your next vehicle.

So you want to sell your car. Naturally, you'll want to do it for the highest price possible and yet in the shortest amount of time. But what is the best way to go about it? You can try to sell it on your own, or you can sell it through a dealership. There are benefits to selling with each, so whether you decide to sell us your car or you go about it a different way, here are the pros and cons of selling your used car. Advantages of Selling Your Used Car to a Dealership Probably the most telling advantage of selling your used car to a dealership is just how quickly you can do it. Bring your car in, have it inspected, and you'll receive an offer on the spot. When you need money fast, there is nothing faster than that. You might be able to walk out of the dealership with a check in under an hour. If you're looking at buying a new car, you can increase the amount you receive back for your used car. It does depend a bit on what you're interested in, but in terms of selling your vehicle for fast cash, there really is nothing better than going through a dealership. The second major benefit of selling your used car to a dealership is you can avoid communicating with people who visit Craigslist and other listing websites. Not to say you won't meet some nice people through these kinds of sites, but you may end up meeting some less than desirable individuals as well. People will also ask to see your vehicle and then not show up, arrive late, or just flat out waste your time. That will never be the case with selling your vehicle to a dealership. You'll bring your vehicle in, and that's all you need to do to start the process—no dealing with strangers or people who seem a bit shady. Everything is always on the up and up. You might have a vehicle that simply won't sell. Maybe it's extremely old, is loaded with miles, or you have been trying to sell for months with no luck. Well, the dealership is always an option. You'll at least be able to make some money with your used vehicle through the dealership, which is helpful when you need the cash, or you want to have it out of your garage before you're forced to pay another license tag fee. Advantages of Selling Your Used Car Privately If you're able to sell your vehicle privately, you usually will receive more money this way than through a dealership. For a dealership to make money, it needs to list your vehicle at or below the Kelley Blue Book value (unless it is an extremely rare vehicle, so there are exceptions, but usually, this is how it goes). Because the dealership needs to do this and it still needs to make money off of the vehicle, it simply is unable to pay you the actual KBB value. When you sell privately, you act as the dealership. This means you'll be able to ask for closer to KBB value, which allows you to net more money from the sale. Realistically this is the only true benefit of selling your used car privately, but if it works out, you can max out your earning potential. Disadvantages Of Selling Your Used Vehicle To A Dealership As mentioned above, if you can sell your vehicle privately and someone buys it, you'll likely make more money that way. However, you will need to jump through hoops to do that (typically). In general, the one disadvantage of selling your used vehicle to a dealership is the potential to not make as much money during the sale. Disadvantages Of Selling Your Used Vehicle Privately It might sound like a good idea to sell your vehicle privately, and you can always try this first, but several issues arise with this method. For starters, it will likely take a long time to sell your vehicle. With a dealership, you'll get paid within the hour. When listing your vehicle privately, your vehicle may be listed for weeks, if not months, before anyone buys it. In fact, there's no guarantee anyone will show interest. You can't usually ask for more than it is worth (again, unless it is a collector's item), and it needs to be competitively priced when compared to other similar vehicles listed in the area. So do you really want to potentially wait months in hopes of actually selling it? The next issue is the amount of time out of your day you'll need to dedicate to selling it. People will start to contact you. Many of these conversations will not go anywhere. You'll have people screwing with you and wasting your time. You'll have people who are not serious about buying your vehicle, or they will try to extremely low-ball you. You will also have people trying to make odd trades. They might ask if you're willing to trade your used pickup for a washing machine and a box of My-Little-Pony toys. While this scenario is a little far fetched, offers like this can happen. But after you turn down the offer for a trade, you may eventually have some serious offers. Everything is good, right? Not necessarily. They will want to inspect it, which is fine. They'll then want to probably take it to a garage to have it inspected again. Even if you have the CARFAX report or another garage report on hand, they will want to do it themselves. This will take hours, if not multiple days. And if that person doesn't end up buying your vehicle, you'll need to do it all over again later. This represents dozens of hours out of your day. So you'll need to sit down and ask yourself whether the difference between a dealership offer and selling your vehicle privately is even worth it. So let's say everything finally works out. You waited out the several months, and someone is actually buying your vehicle. You now will need to go with them to the bank, and then they will likely need to accompany you to the bank while you deposit your check. You don't want to hand over your vehicle to someone and then have the check bounce. You'll also need to sign over the paperwork for your vehicle. Again, just more steps and more time out of your day. Sell Your Used Car Quickly and Easily at Raceway Chevy If you want to try your hand at selling your vehicle privately, by all means, go ahead. Who knows, it might work out for you. However, when you want a fair, honest offer and you want the cash in hand the same day, why not avoid the hassle and just visit us here at Raceway Chevy in Bethlehem, PA? We're always on the lookout for all kinds of used vehicles. It doesn't matter if you have an old 1987 Ford F-150 with 300,000 miles on it, or you have a 2009 Toyota Corolla, you can sell us your car, which will save you all kinds of time, several headaches, and give you cash, all in one visit to us.

For 2021, Chevrolet will be introducing a new small crossover SUV packed with premium features for an amazingly low price. Slotting between the larger Chevy Equinox and the smaller Chevy Trax, the all-new 2021 Chevy Trailblazer (not to be confused with the midsize Chevy Blazer) will have a starting price lower than either. If you are in the area, be sure to swing by our Chevy dealership and take this stylish and feature-packed vehicle for a test drive. Even if you are not currently in the market for a new SUV, the value of the new 2021 Chevy Trailblazer might just change your mind. And who knows, you may even find something else that interests you among the wide variety of models we currently have available at our dealership. Looking Good, Inside and Out From the outside, no one would guess that the 2021 Trailblazer is Chevrolet’s lowest-priced SUV. With its sharp modern lines, distinctive head and taillights, and trim-specific aluminum wheels, the Trailblazer would already have everything it needs to turn heads. But to add that extra punch, Chevrolet will also be offering the 2021 Trailblazer in a variety of attractive contrasting two-tone color schemes. Altogether, this combination stands out even among all the other modern offerings on our Chevy dealership lot. Of course, the exterior of a vehicle alone is not the only thing that is important when it comes to looks. After all, you spend more time inside your vehicle than you do admiring it from the outside. Fortunately, when you open up the door and step into the 2021 Chevy Trailblazer, its stylish interior fully lives up to the appeal of its exterior. The same clean angular styling that shaped the outside panels has also been applied to the interior trim, while a two-tone color scheme reappears for the dashboard and seat covers. Finally, the new Trailblazer also offers a large sunroof to complete its upscale feel. But style is not the only thing the interior of the Trailblazer offers. Despite its smaller size, it is still a spacious and versatile SUV that has no problem seating five. And unlike some competitors, the 2021 Chevy Trailblazer has plenty of legroom for its back seat. When it comes to moving cargo, the 60/40 fold-down rear seats on the Trailblazer can accommodate up to 54.4 cubic feet. This already impressive cargo space can be further expanded with the available fold-flat front passenger seat, which will allow you to comfortably fit objects up to eight and a half feet long with the tailgate closed. Advanced Entertainment and Safety Immediately catching the eye as soon as you step into the 2021 Chevy Trailblazer is the 7” touchscreen in the center console. Surrounded by plenty of physical buttons for ease of use while driving, this screen operates Chevrolet’s excellent standard infotainment system. Equipped with both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, this system can connect seamlessly to your phone no matter which operating system you prefer. Even better, this connection can be made wirelessly, and it is possible to simultaneously connect two different phones––an incredibly valuable feature if you are often driving with passengers. To get the full wireless experience, the 2021 Chevy Trailblazer also has an optional wireless charging station for your phone in the front console. Finally, if you are not the type who keeps a lot of music on your phone, SiriusXM satellite radio will also be available. But the advanced electronics of the 2021 Trailblazer are not limited to entertainment. Starting with an electronic parking brake, Chevrolet has made numerous modern safety features standard for the new Trailblazer. These include automatic emergency braking for both vehicles and pedestrians at speeds of up to 50 mph, forward collision and lane departure warnings, a backup camera, and a following distance indicator. Together, these features represent simply incredible value for a vehicle in this price range and will make your driving experience safer and more convenient. If the standard features are not enough for you, the 2021 Chevy Trailblazer will also offer even more optional features. Among these are adaptive cruise control, blindspot alert, rear cross traffic alert, rear park assist, and an HD backup camera. Although these optional features may not have quite the same safety value as the standard features on the Trailblazer, they will certainly make your life easier––particularly if you often find yourself on the highway or maneuvering in crowded parking lots. We have certainly found them valuable when moving vehicles around the lot of our Chevy dealership. Trim Levels and Pricing The base L trim of the 2021 Trailblazer will have a starting price of only $19,000, making it among the most affordable SUVs on the market. And unlike many of its competitors, this base trim comes with the full set of standard safety features as well as LED running lights. This makes the L trim one of the best deals we’ve ever seen pass through our Chevy dealership. Stepping up to the LS trim will give you 17” aluminum wheels, the fold-flat front passenger seat, and the option for AWD and a more powerful engine. The starting price for this trim is $21,500, and selecting all-wheel drive adds another $2,000. But if you have experienced the weather in this area, then you know that the extra money may be worth the peace of mind that all-wheel drive can bring. Above the LS trim sits the LT trim. This more luxurious option adds extras such as heated seats, a remote start system, fog lamps, and roof rails. The starting price is $23,600 and, like the LS trim, the LT trim has the options for all-wheel drive and a more powerful engine. Although it is a bit of a step up in terms of price, being able to climb into a warm car on a cold winter day is worth the cost. Finally, there are the Activ and RS trims, which are easily identified by their two-tone color schemes. The Activ trim is intended for off-road use and comes with a modified suspension setup and different tires with improved off-road performance. The RS is the 2021 Trailblazer’s sporty trim and has a dual exhaust, 18” aluminum wheels, a flat-bottom steering wheel, and red interior accents. Both the Activ and the RS will have a starting price of $25,400. No matter which trim is right for you, the 2021 Chevy Trailblazer is an excellent deal. For the sake of comparison, the similar Ford EcoSport starts at $19,995. But at that price, it lacks any advanced safety features, only has 50 cubic feet of cargo space, and comes with a significantly weaker engine. To even get just blindspot warnings on the EcoSport requires choosing both a higher trim and an optional package that adds up to $23,450, and automatic emergency braking is completely unavailable. Do not just take our word for it. Stop by our dealership in Bethlehem, PA, and see the value of the 2021 Chevy Trailblazer for yourself. We are confident that after spending some time with this vehicle, it will win your heart in the same way that it has won ours.

These days, most every truck manufacturer offers an off-road edition of their small and midsize pickup trucks. Yes, we have all seen them with their cool lines and rugged looks. Sure, they all look like they are ready to take on the fabled off-road rallies like Paris to Dakar and the Mint 400, but how many really have what it takes to give you the ultimate off-road experience? In other words, which ones don’t just talk-the-talk, but also walk-the-walk? Chevrolet recently teamed up with the aftermarket off-road experts at American Expedition Vehicles (AEV) to produce the ultimate off-road pickup truck, the Chevy Colorado ZR2 Bison. Built on Chevy’s small truck Colorado platform, the Bison is a special package on the top-of-the-line ZR2 trim Colorado that doesn’t just add cosmetic upgrades to the equation. The folks at AEV have worked with Chevy to produce an off-road truck that moves past the 'for looks only' and pretenders, and gives you the ability to stampede all the other trucks off the toughest off-road terrain. Come visit us at Raceway Chevrolet in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, and test-drive a ZR2 Bison today. You will see first hand why this truck was named 2019 Off-Road Truck of the Year by Popular Mechanics. A Powerful Drivetrain to Move the Bison The 2020 Chevy Colorado ZR2 Bison is equipped with a standard 3.6-liter V6 engine, providing up to 308 horsepower and 275 lb-ft of torque. How powerful is this 6-cylinder engine? The ZR2 Bison is rated to be able to tow up to 7,000 pounds. It also won’t hurt you at the pump, with an estimated 16 miles per gallon in city driving, 18 miles per gallon in highway driving, and 17 miles per gallon combined. Not enough power for you? Then upgrade to the 2.8-liter Duramax Turbo-Diesel. This diesel efficiently uses all four of its cylinders to produce 186 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque, allowing the ZR2 Bison to tow up to 7,700 pounds. Both engines operate on an 8-speed automatic transmission. This gives you the control you need to deal with whatever terrain and the elements may throw your way. You can take your ZR2 Bison anywhere, as it will be equally at home in the forest, out on the sand dunes, or just cruising down the road. Looks to Thrill Chevrolet and AEV have given the ZR2 Bison several distinctive cosmetic features to make it stand out from the pack. It starts with distinctive “CHEVROLET” lettering across the grille, and special wheel moldings. It has special AEV stamped steel front and rear bumpers, which is something only available on a ZR2 Bison. Moving to the inside of the ZR2 Bison, the folks at Chevy and AEV have given this truck special embroidered headrests, and front and rear AEV logo floor liners. This is in addition to the standard interior features on the Colorado ZR2 class truck, including 4-way heated front passenger bucket seats, automatic climate control, and heated leather-wrapped steering wheel. The interior of the ZR2 Bison’s crew cab will give you and your passengers plenty of room to stretch out while you test the limits of the truck. Front row passengers will enjoy 41.4 inches of headroom, 45 inches of legroom, 57.5 inches of shoulder room, and 55 inches of hip room, while the second row passengers won’t feel cramped with 38.3 inches of headroom, 35.8 inches of legroom, and 56.2 inches of shoulder room. You and your lucky passengers will experience incredible comfort in an interior that compliments the rugged looks of the ZR2 Bison. Built for the Off-Road Adventure The engineers at Chevrolet and AEV have designed the ZR2 Bison to handle even the toughest off-road terrain. It starts with the exceptional base features of the 2020 Chevy Colorado ZR2, and then takes them to the next level. The 2020 Colorado ZR2 is the first truck in this line to feature the off-road application of Chevy’s Multimatic Dynamic Suspensions Spool Valve (DSSV) damper technology. This will improve the feel of the ZR2’s suspension system, allowing it to take on tougher terrain without compromising the overall ride of the truck. The ZR2 also features front and rear electronic locking differentials, cast iron control arms to increase strength, and a suspension that has been lifted 2 inches higher than on the standard Colorado truck to improve off-road performance. To improve performance over obstacles such as rocks, Chevy has outfitted the ZR2 with functional rock sliders and better clearance under the front and rear bumpers. Chevy clearly understands that form has to meet function in order for an off-road truck to be able to perform in an optimal fashion. Chevy has also added heated outside mirrors and a Hitch Guidance12 system to complete the 2020 Colorado ZR2 package. A number of key exterior features have been added to make the ZR2 Bison the top off-road truck in its class. First, the Bison is four-wheel drive standard. Chevy and AEV understand that there is no point in making a 2X4 version of a truck that is designed for off-roading. To provide better protection for the vehicle, there are five hot-stamped Boron Steel skid plates. These are located at the front differential, the engine oil pan, the transfer case, the fuel tank, and the rear differential, to guard these key components during your off-road adventures. The Bison also has fog lamps, giving you the ability to better see your way through to your destination regardless of the terrain or the weather. To improve traction, there are AEV-designed wheel fender flares with 17 x 8-inch aluminum wheels. There are winch provisions on the front bumper and recovery points on the rear bumper. An AEV air snorkel is available as an optional aftermarket accessory as well. To make sure you and your passengers are safe throughout your journey, the 2020 Chevy Colorado ZR2 Bison features six airbags, a passenger sensing system for the front passenger airbag, a tire pressure monitoring system, tire fill alert, daytime running lamps, and an HD rear vision camera. The truck also has standard StabiliTrak electronic stability control with rollover mitigation technology, trailer sway control, and hill-start assist. The ZR2 Bison is also connected to Chevy’s OnStar system to provide real-time assistance from Chevy’s team of experts. The ZR2 Bison Meets, and Beats, the Extremes If you are looking for a basic off-road vehicle, then the standard 2020 Chevy Colorado ZR2 should be sufficient. However, if you want a vehicle that you can push to the limits and beyond, then you need a ZR2 Bison. This can handle the extremes of weather, from snowstorms in hill country to high temperatures on the dunes in the desert. If the ZR2 Bison can’t get through it, then nothing that is commercially available will either. The base MSRP for the 2020 Chevy Colorado ZR2 Bison is $47,845, a relative steal for an off-road vehicle of this capability, comparable to other trucks in its class, and less costly than the so-called off-road trucks offered by luxury vehicle manufacturers. Also, this is only a slight $5,000 step-up in price over the base MSRP of $42,490 for the 2020 Chevy Colorado ZR2. Saddle up a ZR2 Bison today, and hit the trail head-on with the best off-road small truck in its class. You’ll be ready to take on whatever nature can throw at you.

In the world of full-size pickups, the Chevrolet Silverado has an undeniable reputation as one of the most popular, most powerful, and most highly-respected vehicles in its class. The Silverado 1500 first appeared on the market in 1999, and quickly gained attention for its towing capacity, high payload limits, quickly surpassing the C and K line trucks it replaced. Just over twenty years later, Chevy has refined the Silverado 1500 into a model that meets the needs of nearly every driver shopping the segment, with eight different trim packages. On top of those trim levels are custom option packages, allowing drivers nearly complete control over the vehicle they design and purchase. Not only does each trim package have a slightly different appearance, with specifically designed grille, fascia, and wheel, but each Silverado trim has a distinct range of capabilities and purpose. For example, the Chevy Silverado Trail Boss vs Silverado Z71 might be of the same model, but they are very different. The Work Truck was designed as a truck that can get any job done with a no-frills sensibility, while the LT is a daily driver with a classic appearance. RST is the sportiest Silverado, designed to get attention wherever it goes, while LTZ and Custom trims lean towards comfort and luxury paired with that workhorse outlook. High Country tops the line with premium everything. But when it comes to off-road, rugged design, the LT Trail Boss, Custom Trail Boss, and Z71 are all terms that those in the market for an all-terrain beast might hear thrown around. So what’s the difference? What makes someone choose one over the other? Let’s take a look at the Trail Boss and Z71 models in further detail. A Tale of Two Trail Bosses The 2020 lineup of Chevrolet Silverado 1500 trucks includes not one but two trim packages with the “Trail Boss” designation. According to Chevy marketing, the LT Trail Boss is “the boss of bosses,” while the Custom Trail Boss “shows the trails who’s boss.” With monikers like that, it’s easy to see why Trail Boss models would be an instant attraction to those who navigate the road less traveled. All Trail Boss models feature engineering that proves helpful when roads get wild and winding. Both include a two-inch suspension lift, giving the more clearance, and Rancho monotube shocks that maintain balance when the going gets tough. The LT Trail Boss includes dual-outlet exhaust integrated into the rear bumper, a feature that is available on Custom Trail Boss models. A high capacity air filter, Hill Descent Control, skid plates, and automatic rear locking differential help both Trail Boss models maintain their composure in mud, rain, rock, and more. The differences between the two are primarily focused on size, power, and features. The LT Trail Boss is available in crew cab only, matched with a short bed or standard bed. Custom Trail Boss is available as crew or double cab, but the double cab is only offered with the standard bed. While each model features the rolled-steel Durabed construction, the LT Trail Boss short bed offers 2,185 lbs of maximum payload, while Custom Trail Boss short bed can accommodate 2,085 lbs. Both models include 62.9 cubic feet of cargo space inside the bed, as well, with seating for six. As far as power supply, the LT Trail Boss comes equipped with a standard 5.3L EcoTec3 V8 engine with Dynamic Fuel Management, paired with a ten-speed automatic transmission. This combination offers 355 horsepower and 383 lb-ft of torque. The Custom version, on the other hand, includes a standard 4.3L EcoTec3 V6 engine with Active Fuel Management, which is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. This engine offers 285 horsepower and 305 lb-ft of torque. Drivers looking for a bit more power can opt for the 6.2L EcoTec V8 with Dynamic Fuel Management, which is an available engine for both models. This engine is paired with a ten-speed automatic transmission and features 420 horsepower and 460 lb-ft—a best in class feat for a V8 engine. Inside, both the LT and Custom Trail Boss models feature 40/20/40 split front seats; however, the LT adds under-seat storage for smaller items. While the LT includes 4G LTE WiFi, drivers of the Custom will have to add this as an option. When it comes to optional packages, the LT Trail Boss offers far more than the Custom Trail Boss. The Convenience Package adds automatic climate control, as well as heated and power-adjustable seats, and a heated steering wheel. The Convenience II Package includes a premium Infotainment system, power rear window, extra USB ports, and premium audio features, including a Bose sound system. The Advanced Trailering Package provides cameras and monitoring systems that can assist in hitching and maintaining trailer safety on the road. Z71: An Off-Road Package Above and Beyond One common misconception is that the Z71 is one of the available Silverado 1500 trim levels. In fact, it’s an option package that is available on the Work Truck, LT, RST, LTZ, and High Country models. As a result, the features available included in the Z71 package differ slightly between models. All Z71-equipped models feature the off-road suspension and Rancho twin shocks included on the Trail Boss models, as well as the Hill Descent Control feature, heavy-duty air filter, and protective all-terrain skid plates. All include Z71-branded all-weather floor mats to handle any of that rough road that makes its way into the cab. All models except the High Country Z71 models include a special badge and two-speed AutoTrac transfer case. An off-road capable vehicle needs all-terrain tires, and Z71 is no exception. LT and RST models equipped with this package include 18-inch aluminum wheels and all-terrain blackwall tires. They are also accompanied by the Protection Package, which offers the Chevytec spray-on bed liner and specialized rear wheelhouse liners. The LTZ models feature 20-inch polished wheels with all-terrain blackwall tires, and also include the Chevytec bed liner. Silverado 1500 LT and RST trims paired with the Z71 off-road package receive a few extras, including automatic locking rear differentials and a dual exhaust. The Z71-style differential is also available on Work Truck trims, while the exhaust also appears on the LTZ models. Making Tough Choices When it comes to selecting the perfect off-road capable Silverado 1500, drivers will need to carefully consider the options. If you’re looking to build the perfect vehicle with one of the Silverado’s capable and powerful trim models, including the Work Truck, LT, RST, LTZ, or High Country, the Z71 package will add the features and protections that transform these trucks into an all-terrain beast. You’ll get the best of both worlds with this option, with all the features of the chosen trim as well as the off-road features of the Z71 package. Alternately, the Custom Trail Boss and LT Trail Boss are specifically designed with many of the off-road features of the Z71 package, including a suspension lift, shocks, and rear locking differentials. Building off the features of the Custom and LT trims, Trail Boss trims allow drivers to choose additional options to customize their vehicle, which is already equipped with off-road capabilities. While the Z71 is the equivalent of adding off-road features to an existing truck, the Custom and LT Trail Boss models are off-road-ready vehicles that can have additional features added. Finding Your Chevy Silverado When choosing a 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 1500, it’s easy to be overwhelmed with the plethora of options on the table. From extra comfort and convenience to increased safety, to trailering and off-roading packages, Chevy seems to have considered every possible scenario you could need a full-size truck for. If off-road capability is at the top of your list of considerations, the Trail Boss trims and Z71 packages will add the necessary features. For those who live off the beaten path, a Trail Boss model might be the first option to consider, while the Z71 package might be the best option for truck drivers who might need the extra features that make occasional or frequent all-terrain driving possible. Either way, Silverado drivers are guaranteed a safe, comfortable, powerful ride. Check one out today at Raceway Chevrolet in Bethlehem, PA. Our sales team is ready when you are!

To lift or not to lift. For some truck owners, that is a very real question. There are many reasons why you might want to consider it, and other times you may just want to sit higher up off the ground. If you are considering a lift, you will first want to consider whether it is best to go with factory lifted trucks or if you should opt for the purchase of used trucks with a lift kit. There are pros and cons with each, so here is what you need to know regarding lifted trucks, both new vs used. What are the Different Lift Options? Before deciding whether you should go with a new or used lifted truck, you should first understand what exactly a vehicle lift does, both in a good way and possibly a not so good way. First, there are a number of different alterations made to trucks (especially aftermarket), and as the names are similar sounding, it is easy to get them confused. There are body lifts, suspension lifts, and leveling kits. Suspension lifts and body lifts do just that: lift the vehicle up. Basically, a body lift adds height between the body and frame of the truck. A suspension lift adds more clearance by either replacing the factory suspension or by spacing out the factory suspension. Most factory lifts are around two extra inches, although aftermarket lifts can jump to 10 inches or more, though the average is 4-6 inches. A body lift is for aesthetics, while allowing for an increase in tire size. However, a suspension lift brings with it some performance advantages. With regards to a leveling kit, most trucks have what is referred to as a raked stance. This means the rear end of the truck is higher than the front end. This is helpful in that if you have a heavy load in the truck bed, it prevents the back suspension from bottoming out. Basically, it gives you some extra space to work with. A leveling kit will lift the front end of the vehicle so it matches the back end. Advantages and Disadvantages of the Different Lifts Each kind of lift comes with both advantages and disadvantages. A suspension lift will give you the greatest flexibility in lift size. It also allows you to put on larger tires and it can increase both the suspension travel and articulation. However, this is the most expensive lift option, and it will likely alter the ride quality. A body lift allows you to put on larger tires than a leveling kit, and it doesn't have the kind of effect on the ride comfort as a suspension kit. However, it doesn't give you much flexibility in the lift range, and there are no performance advantages. It also creates a gap between the body and frame, which is not only unsightly for most, but means some of the salt used on roads during the winter may eat away at the frame faster. Lastly, there is the leveling kit. This is the least expensive option, if you want to do the installation yourself this is the way to go, it gives you a more aggressive stance than a regular lift, and it does give you a bit of extra room for larger tires. However, when compared to the other options, there is very little change in appearance, and the lift amount is minimal. Advantages of a Factory Installed Lift The Chevy ZR2 does offer a slight lift increase over the standard trim levels. You can opt for this is not only the ZR2 but the ZR2 Bison trims. These particular trims will have a lift of up to two inches. The truck also has, what Chevy refers to as an "aggressive stance," which means the front of the vehicle has been slightly lifted to give it a more level stance. It does allow for larger tires and an increase in clearance off the ground. The ZR2 does come with solid undercarriage protection, although if you want a serious lift off the ground, the two-inch height increase may not do it for you. The ZR2 is the Colorado off-road package, while the Trail Boss is the larger Silverado's off-road package. The Custom Trail Boss comes with similar upgrades as the Colorado ZR2, including a 2-inch factory lift, undercarriage protection, plus several small tweaks. Again, this will give you some extra clearance when off-roading, but it may not give you the full clearance you might want. It does, however, maintain the factory warranty and take away some of the risks associated with a lift you install yourself. Used Lifted Trucks You've probably seen the massively lifted trucks for sale on used lots before. Some might be a bit over the top for you, while other lifts may seem just right. Before you go with a used lifted truck, though, there are some elements to keep in mind. First, the lifted truck will likely receive a decline in fuel economy due to changes in aerodynamics and typically increased tire size. Additionally, depending on the lift, you might not be able to tow as much or require a hitch lowering system. With that said, aftermarket lifts will give you additional clearance over what a factory-installed lift offers. If you want just a slight lift, it's usually best to go factory installed with the off-road trims. But if you are looking for something greater than two-inches, you'll almost always need to go aftermarket. Pros and Cons of Each With a factory-installed lift, you know it's done correctly. It's also covered by the warranty when the factory does it. If you go with an aftermarket lift, it may completely void your warranty (not just on the suspension but the entire vehicle). You also want to know your lift was installed properly. So if you are considering an aftermarket lift on a used truck, make sure this has been well documented. A lift kit that was installed in someone's home garage might not be best high-quality or correctly installed, which can lead to performance problems later on down the line. If you buy a used truck that you want to lift post-purchase, we recommend contacting our service department here at Raceway Chevy, or finding a specialized mechanic to install the lift if you're out of the Bethlehem, PA area. Ultimately it is up to you and what you want to do with your truck. There is no right or wrong answer. The beauty of a truck is you can truly make it your own. Just put in the research and look into how the lifts were installed (and have the lift inspected so you know its current state). Then go with what feels right and have fun. New or Used There's a Lifted Truck For You If you're set on a lifted truck, there are options out there for you. You can go with a factory lifted truck, such as the Chevy ZR2 or the Trail Boss, or you may want to lift your pickup aftermarket. There are even factory lifts from GM that can be installed after the fact if you didn't purchase a ZR2 or Trail Boss trim. It is important to keep in mind the benefits of lifting your truck and what to expect as possible side effects. Whatever you decide to do, if you are interested in a new lifted truck the staff at Raceway Chevy can help you pinpoint the exact truck with the added height you're looking for. And if you are interested in lifting the truck but want help, the service department at Raceway can help as well. No matter the direction you go in with your lifted truck, just know you have both customer service and certified Chevy mechanics here to help you every step of the way.

Chevy trucks have a long history of success, dating back to General Motors first pick-up, which was introduced in 1930. Since then, the auto industry has certainly come a long way. The unprecedented power and innovation found in new Chevy trucks is something the original manufacturers at GM could never have imagined. The 2020 Silverado is a great example of this, fully loaded with best-in-class features and capability. The new Silverado 1500 has an astounding max trailering capacity of 13,400 pounds and a max payload of up to 2,250 pounds. It adds a new diesel engine option to its line-up of powerful engine choices that are already available. At Raceway Chevy, we are so excited to share this new powerhouse with you. Let us take you out for a test drive and give you a feel for what it can do. Here are some of the details on Chevy’s latest masterpiece. Engine Options Multiple engine options can be fitted to the 2020 Silverado 1500, depending on your power and towing needs or fuel-efficiency preferences. The first option is a 2.7-liter turbo engine producing 310 horsepower (at 5600 rotations per minute). This can pull 348 pounds per foot of torque (at 1500 rotations per minute). It comes paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. To beat out the competition with the best fuel economy of any pick-up on the market, the 3.0-liter Duramax turbo-diesel I6 engine is your best bet. This engine produces 277 horsepower and 460 pounds per foot of torque. It provides 23 miles per gallon in the city and 33 miles per gallon on highways. It is paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and includes a diesel exhaust brake system. A few variations of EcoTec3 engines are also available for the 2020 Silverado. The first is a 4.3-liter EcoTec3 V6 engine that produces 285 horsepower and 305 pounds per foot of torque. Another similar option is the 5.3-liter EcoTec3 V8 engine. This produces 355 horsepower and 383 pounds per foot of torque. Both of these engines use Chevy’s Active Fuel Management technology and are paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. There’s also a version of the 5.3 liter EcoTec V8 that comes with Chevy’s Dynamic Fuel Management technology. Drivers can upgrade to a 6.2-liter EcoTec3 V8 engine with 420 horsepower and 460 pounds per foot of torque. This employs the Dynamic Fuel Management technology for efficient power. It is paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and rated best-in-class for V8 power and towing. Trim Levels For 2020, the Chevy Silverado 1500 comes in eight different trim levels, including the Work Truck (WT), Custom, Custom Trail Boss, LT, RST, LT Trail Boss, LTZ, and High Country. Customization doesn’t stop at choosing your trim. The Silverado comes in a range of cab bed lengths and powertrains options. The two-door regular cab, four-door extended (double) cab and a crew cab with four regular doors. There are three different bed sizes to choose from, depending on your cab selection. An eight-foot bed is the longest, followed by a 6.6-foot bed and the smaller 5.8-foot bed. Despite being a more basic model, the Work Truck still comes with Bluetooth, a seven-inch touchscreen, Android Auto, and Apple CarPlay. Bumping up to the Custom trim adds power mirrors that are heated, cruise control and front tow hooks. For off-roading, the Custom Trail Boss trim holds supreme with four-wheel drive and the option to add a trailering package and Z71 off-road suspension package. As you move higher up the trim levels, the touch screen gets bigger, the engines get more powerful, and you can find luxury features like leather seats, dual zone automatic climate control and a navigation system. For the LT, RST, LT Trail Boss, and LTZ, you can choose the optional Safety Package, which provides advanced technology like lane departure warning, front and rear parking sensors, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. In addition, on the LTZ and High Country, the Safety Package II brings forward collision warning, adaptive cruise control, forward pedestrian detection with braking, and a safety alert seat to the already provided features in the original Safety Package. The LTZ and High Country as also eligible for the Technology Package, including a head-up display, a 360-degree parking camera, a bed-view camera, and provisions for two trailer cameras. Exterior Features The new Silverado 1500 is available in a variety of ten colors ranging from the vibrant Red Hot and Cajun Red Tintcoat to the more subdued Northsky Blue Metallic and Havana Brown Metallic. Each trim is designed with its own personality and style. The Work Truck is a classic Chevy truck with the iconic Chevy logo stamped on the grille and tailgate. The Custom trim takes style a bit more seriously with signature LED taillamps and 20-inch Bright Silver-painted aluminum wheels. A center grille bar along with deep-tinted glass and body-color bumpers adds an extra touch of class. For a two-inch lift, the Custom Trail Boss elevates your truck above the rest right from the get-go. The LT glows with chrome bumpers, center grille bar, and mirror caps. Flashy 17-inch bright silver-painted aluminum wheels and illuminated LED headlamps and daytime running lamps make this truck truly shine. The RST has high-gloss black mirror caps and slightly larger 18-inch bright silver-painted aluminum wheels. Its EZ Lift power lock and release tailgate make it the perfect companion for all your cargo. It has body-color bumpers, center grille bar, and door handles, along with LED lights in the headlamps, daytime running lamps, fog lamps, and taillamps. The LT Trail Boss gets its bragging rights based on what’s under the hood. Whether you add your choice of the 5.3-liter EcoTec3 V8 engine with Dynamic Fuel Management, or the large 6.2-liter EcoTec3 V8, it’s an off-roading dream. A dual-outlet exhaust with polished tips and an auxiliary external transmission oil cooler keep this beast running at its best in all conditions. The LTZ is filled with stylish details, starting from its 18-inch bright silver-painted aluminum wheels to appealing accents on the mirror caps, beltline, and door handles. The power folding and adjustable mirrors (which are heated) complete the refined look of this desirable trim. Finally, the High Country stuns with a sleek two-toned bronze and chrome finish. Its bold 20-inch wheels and exclusive grille mark the height of design in Chevy trucks. Wheel to wheel assist steps the industry’s first power up and down tailgate enhance its accessibility. Signature curtain LED daytime running lamps, paired with high-intensity discharge LED headlamps make the High Country shine like no other. Making Your Choice Not sure which trim to choose? Raceway Chevy located in Bethlehem, PA, has a great selection of the latest top-of-the-line Chevy trucks, along with several desirable used options to try. Check them out in person to decide which trim best suits your lifestyle and personal taste.

I happened to hear someone ask an interesting question while I was at a Chevy dealer near me: does Chevy make a regular cab truck in 2020? And while this dealership happens to be one I work at, Raceway Chevrolet here in Bethlehem, PA, I think this costumer was on to something. It’s a good question to ask, with most automobile makers now focusing on crew cab and extended cab models. You don’t often find a company emphasizing the basic work truck in their lineup, so it’s not always apparent what your options are when it comes to looking for a truck built solely for the purpose of hard work. Ram and Nissan don’t even carry a regular cab half-ton truck for 2020. We all appreciate the extra space of an extended cab or crew cab, but what if we don’t need it? What if we have a crossover SUV in the garage for the family and just want something that will tow and haul, handle serious payload—something we can beat up a little and not worry too much about. Options They were thinking about putting a rack on a Chevy Silverado so they can haul lumber and build that deck they’ve been dreaming about, and I liked the direction they were going, so let’s approach this search from a similar angle. This regular cab Chevy might just be our ticket to a cold beer on the porch. Well, now that we have all the motivation we need, let’s take a look at what our options are. We know we want to look at Chevy because of its reputation for solid work trucks. Chevy has the truck building know-how we’re looking for, and the 2020 generation is bigger and lighter than ever before. Not only that, it has an unpretentious look we’re after. This is a truck that doesn’t care about being flashy. It has one purpose, and that’s to get the job done. What we’re looking for is pure functionality, built for hauling heavy equipment and serious payloads. How Much Truck do You Need? So the big question now is: how much truck do you need? You might have noticed the 2020 Silverado 1500 is at the top of its class in towing and hauling. With up to 20% more standard cargo volume than the competition, best-in-class bed width, best-in-class bed length, and cargo volume, you’ll have all the room you need to keep up with your projects or meet the demands of a construction job. Chevy calls it the most functional bed of any pick-up, and there’s really no arguing with this. 12 tie-downs are standard, three times more than any other pick-up truck. Also worth noting is the construction of the bed. The bed floor is built from high-strength, roll-formed steel, making it tougher and lighter than previous generations. Lucky for us, it’s only available as a long bed, so Chevy clearly knows what this truck will be used for—work, and lots of it. Performance Features Standard is a 4.3L EcoTec3 V6 engine with 285 hp and 305 lb-ft of torque. That should definitely get the job done. But if you need more power, there is also an optional 5.3L EcoTec3 V8 engine, both with a 6-speed transmission. The 5.3L engine has 355 horsepower and 383 lb-ft of torque, and it costs less than $2,000 to upgrade to this engine. Both engines also have Active Fuel Management technology and a tow/haul mode, so you know the truck was made with work in mind. The tow-haul mode raises transmission upshift points to supply more power to accelerate with a heavy load, and raises downshift points to use engine compression to help slow the truck and go easy on the brakes when you have a heavy load in the bed or are towing a boat to the lake. The starting price for this truck is $29,895, and this includes a rear vision camera and a Chevrolet Infotainment 3 System with a color touchscreen, among many other features, which means you’re getting a lot of truck for under $30,000. Chevy’s pretty much set us up with everything you will need to finish that deck, and now you’ll have the extra money for lumber. You might even consider going with Redwood now and ditch your plans of saving money and using Douglas Fir. Anyways, let’s take a look at some of the other options out there. Need More Power? The next big offering from Chevy is the Silverado 2500HD. This comes as a regular cab long bed as well and is also designed specifically as a work truck. It’s relatively similar in price, starting at $35,695, which is actually $300 less than the 2019 model. All models come with standard trailer tow mirrors, and for even more peace of mind when towing, there's an optional camera system that provides 15 different views. Heavy-duty trucks will give you more size and capability, and they’re surprisingly not much more expensive than their full-size counterparts, starting a touch above what you’d expect to pay for a standard truck. And this one comes with a new direct-injected 6.6L V8 gas engine. The engine is built with a forged steel crankshaft, forged powder-metal connecting rods, and additional high-strength components that add strength and durability. You’ll get 401 hp and 464 lb-ft of torque. There’s also an optional 6.6-liter turbo-diesel V8 producing 445 hp and an impressive 910 lb-ft of torque with a 10-speed transmission. Then there's the 3500, which is available in both single rear wheel and dually configurations. This truck starts at $36,895 for a regular cab in the work truck trim. For perspective, if you want to get a lot more out of your truck, there’s a Silverado 3500HD High Country priced at over $65,000. This truck has all the bells and whistles you could ever want, including a crew cab, dually configuration, and long bed, but we’re trying to keep things simple. If you’re looking to drop its engine in a regular can model, that’s an option. The High Country has a 6.6-liter Duramax diesel V8 and Allison 10-speed automatic transmission, which is capable of towing more than 30,000 pounds, and this is an option for the regular cab as well. The Duramax engine is available for the entire model range. So now we know there are definitely some good options for regular cab trucks at Chevy, and there’s never been a better time to be looking. Chevy really went out of their way in 2020 to make their strongest work truck ever, increasing max towing capability by 52 percent. According to chief engineer Marissa West, Chevy “set out to make the best HD trucks on the market, bar none.” You are in the right place here at Raceway Chevrolet. Lighter, spacious, great handling with increased towing and carrying ability than previous models, the only thing left to do is decide how much truck you need. This is going to be one of the best decisions you have ever made. The 2020 Silverado builds on Chevy’s solid reputation and improves even more on its real-world capabilities, which is just what you’re looking for: an honest, powerful truck built for any situation. Well, what are you waiting for? Get down to Raceway Chevrolet and get moving on building the new deck. Let’s see; first, you’ll have to grab the concrete for the deck footings...

After hearing so much about it, it was hard not to ask, and luckily I was at a Chevy dealer near me and could ask them: What is Chevy MyLink? It sounds interesting on the surface: something that integrates your technology so that you can better focus on driving. That not only sounds useful, but it also sounds necessary. This definitely deserves a closer look at what features we are talking about here. Let’s see what we can figure out about this new technology. On the surface, again, this seems like the kind of game-changing technology that will make us ask the question: How did we ever live without this? Similar to the smartphone, the Chevy MyLink seems to be technology harnessed in a way that is both practical and essential. Imagine not having to worry about your phone when you receive a text message or phone call. With the Chevy MyLink, now you can safely make and receive calls, get text message alerts, all with your cell phone stowed away. So it is certainly phone compatible, but just how compatible is it? Well, the available phone integration allows you to connect directly to a compatible smartphone, which enables select apps from your phone and displays them on the built-in touchscreen display. Very cool, indeed! Functionality This is definitely worth taking a closer look. Let’s see how exactly this works. The heart of the Chevy MyLink is its LCD touchscreen, which comes with either a 7 or 8-inch color display. The touchscreen’s functionality is similar to your smartphone’s. Simply tap, zoom, search, and browse at your leisure. And what can we do with all of this technology placed at our fingertips? It turns out; we can do a lot. Let’s hit the road and check out the features. Features The first feature we see is OnStar Voice Command. With this, you can manage a bunch of OnStar services, from hands-free calling to turn-by-turn navigation. What’s really cool is how you can also turn your car into a hot spot that allows you to connect up to seven mobile devices at once - up to 50 feet away from the vehicle. Say you’re driving and it starts raining—maybe there’s even a distant tornado siren—and you really need to check the weather. Well, what do you know? The answer is right at your fingertips! That’s another feature that will certainly come in handy. With the current weather and forecast information displayed on your touchscreen, you can travel with confidence. Speaking of traveling, navigation is also a great feature to have around, as this comes with the option of OnStar turn-by-turn navigation. If we’re traveling, another concern is safety. The rear vision camera gives you views from the rear of the vehicle and allows you to enable guidance lines and/or rear park assist. Have an iPhone? The Chevy MyLink brings the safety of Siri Eyes Free, an app that allows you to complete tasks such as composing text and emails and storing contacts on your phone, all by using Siri's voice command. Perhaps you have an Android operating system: simply connect to Android Auto, and instantly you have a smart driving companion to help you stay focused and entertained with the Google Assistant. And we haven’t even gotten to the many other features: 3D maps and lane suggestions, an environmental and fuel-cost driving profile, route information with alternate map views, and even more. Speaking of safety, another great benefit of the Chevy MyLink is the Teen Driver technology. While we already know that Chevy makes cars that are fun for the whole family, if you’re a parent, you want peace of mind when your child is on the road, especially if they are a new driver. With this technology, you can establish preselected speeds where the car will give audible and visual warnings when your child exceeds these limits. This will definitely encourage good driving habits and give you the peace of mind your parents never had. There is even an in-vehicle report card you can see when they return home, as well as if safety features needed to be used, such as front collision alert or forward automatic braking. It’s becoming apparent that the Chevrolet MyLink is not just intended to get you where you’re going, it’s built to make the journey the highlight of the trip. With so many bells and whistles, you have everything you need to relax and have a good time. Fire up the tunes via Bluetooth streaming audio or connect your phone to listen to your favorite playlists. It also works with apps such as Pandora, Stitcher Smart Radio, and SiriusXM. Pricing Now that we know the Chevy MyLink is something we can’t live without, what are we looking at in terms of pricing? Well, if you only need the basic connectivity, there is no additional charge. And this includes a number of important features: Vehicle Diagnostics, Dealer Maintenance Notification, Chevrolet Smart Driver, Chevrolet Marketplace, In-Vehicle App Access, and Limited Chevrolet App Access. The Chevrolet Marketplace allows you to find restaurants, hotels, and gas stations when you’re on the road, and the Vehicle Diagnostics sends you a monthly diagnostic report on your vehicle’s vital operating systems. These are great features for no additional cost. The next level—the Remote Access Plan—is at a very affordable $14.99/month, and this adds Remote Key Fob, Vehicle Status, Vehicle Locate, Send-to-Navigation, and On-Demand Diagnostics. The convenience and safety of a remote key fob cannot be understated. With this, you can start and stop the engine, honk your horn if needed, and lock or unlock your doors from nearly anywhere. If you’re anything like me and need to be connected at all times, the Unlimited Access Plan is the plan for you. At $39.99/month, you get unlimited 4G LTE data, Connected Navigation, and Turn-by-Turn Navigation. With Turn-by-Turn Navigation getting directions is as easy pushing the OnStar button and telling the advisor where to go. Directions are downloaded directly to your vehicle and will also be called out for every turn. We already know how convenient and necessary a 4G hot spot is, and with Connected Navigation, you have the ability to see real-time traffic information on your touchscreen. Leave it to safety-minded Chevy to also offer a Safety and Security Plan. This one is $24.99/month, and here you get Automatic Crash Response, Emergency Services, Crisis Assist, Roadside Assistance, Stolen Vehicle Assistance, and Turn-by-Turn Navigation. With these added safety features, you can be sure to know that Chevy is looking out for your well being. Now you have direct access to emergency services and an advisor to help you through any situation or crisis; whether it’s bad weather or a car accident, you’ll be automatically connected to a specially trained emergency-certified Advisor, even if you are not able to call yourself. Built-in sensors will be triggered in the event of a car accident. Remember the tornado siren we heard? With Crisis Alert, OnStar Advisors can help us find our way out the storm’s path, and stay in contact with loved ones in the event of a natural disaster. That’s an incredible variety of features to choose from to ensure we find the plan that makes sense for us. So, getting back to the question we were pondering earlier: How did we ever live without the Chevy MyLink? The answer: No idea. If you have more questions about Chevy MyLink or questions about Chevy vehicles, visit us at Raceway Chevrolet in Bethlehem, PA to learn more.

Although the pickup market might not exactly be flooded these days, there are still quite a few options out there for someone looking to buy a truck. If you’re trying to research what you need, then all of the terms and options can quickly seem overwhelming: full-size, midsize, heavy-duty, light-duty, crew cab, short bed, etc. Here at Raceway Chevy in Bethlehem, located in the Lehigh Valley of Pennsylvania, we have a lot of customers coming to us in a state of confusion, wondering about a 1500 vs 2500 and asking, “Do I need a Super Duty pickup?” Fortunately, that’s a fairly easy question to answer, but you need to think about and know exactly what you need from a truck. This is something only you can really know – after all, you’re the one that’s going to be using your pickup, and you know the kind of work you need it to do. The short answer is this: if you need a truck that can handle a lot of work and haul massive amounts of weight behind it, then yes, you need a super duty. The longer answer depends on the following… Payload vs. Towing Capacity Before we go any further, let’s make sure we’re all on the same page with what some of the most important terms mean when discussing trucks. While you should certainly look at the different engine options and the horsepower and torque they provide, the bigger overall picture really comes down to two things: payload and towing. Unfortunately, a lot of people get these two terms confused or even think they are synonymous – they are not. Payload refers to how much weight you can physically load onto a truck, onto the vehicle itself. This includes anything you place in the bed of the truck, cargo in the cab, and the driver as well as any passengers. Towing capacity, on the other hand, refers to weight not on the truck but instead pulled behind it, usually in a trailer or camper. The weight of the driver and passengers and anything else loaded into the bed of a truck does not usually affect the towing capacity. How Much Payload do You Need? Now that we understand these two specific terms, we can talk about what you are looking for in a truck and whether or not you need a super-duty model, like the Chevy Silverado 2500HD (that HD stands for “Heavy Duty,” which is the same as super duty). The maximum payload capacity of a truck is one of the main differences between a standard and heavy-duty pickup. Something like the Silverado 1500, sometimes just called Silverado, is a standard truck, while the 2500HD is a super duty. Looking at these two trucks, we can see that the 2020 Chevy Silverado 1500 has a maximum payload of up to 2,250 lbs. That means that the absolute most you should ever load onto or in a Silverado 1500 is 2,250 lbs, including the driver and any passengers. Of course, only the right configuration will have that payload limit, and other models will have lower maximums. The 2020 Chevy Silverado 2500HD, on the other hand, as a super duty pickup, has a maximum payload, when properly configured, of up to 3,979 lbs. As you can see, that’s a pretty huge difference in how much weight you can load up onto the 2500HD even if you go with a crew cab and a heavier engine, which both impact maximum payload, the 2500HD can still handle up to 3,553 lbs of payload. So, as you can see, you need to look at how much weight you think you’ll need to load up on your truck and use that to decide on if you need a super-duty or heavy-duty model. There’s a reason these pickups are often preferred by people working in trades – it’s a lot easier to load up stacks of drywall or lumber in a super-duty model than in a standard truck. How Much Towing Capacity do You Need? The second major question to ask yourself is just how much you might need to two behind your truck, as this is also a serious distinction between standard and heavy-duty models. The more weight you tend to haul behind you, the more likely you are to need a super duty pickup to handle it. Once again, let’s look at the Chevy Silverado models to see how they compare. The 2020 Silverado 1500 has a maximum towing capacity of up to 13,400 lbs when properly configured. That includes any weight you pull behind you, including the weight of a trailer itself and all the stuff you have loaded onto it. If that is enough for you, or you need less than 10,000 lbs in general, then a standard pickup will probably be sufficient. On the other hand, if you know you need to pull a lot more weight than that behind your truck, then you probably need a super-duty model. The 2020 Chevy Silverado 2500HD, for example, has a maximum towing capacity when properly configured of up to 18,500 lbs with a crew cab. Even without a crew cab, the 2500HD has maximum towing of up to 14,500 lbs. The least powerful version of the 2500HD for towing can still handle more than the 1500, and at its best, it really blows it away. 2500HD vs 3500HD and Your Best Option So, as you can see, to determine if you need a super-duty truck, you really have to figure out how much weight you are likely to load up on your pickup and how much you want to be able to tow behind you. This can take some work on your part, but it’s well worth it to make sure you can handle anything you need to do. Be sure to be generous with your estimates and err on the side of caution – a heavy-duty truck can always tow less, but you risk seriously damaging a standard truck if you load too much onto it. If you decide that you need a super duty pickup, then you’ll probably notice you actually have a couple of different options for that. In the Chevy lineup, for example, there are two super duty models: the 2500HD that we looked at above and the even-more-powerful Silverado 3500HD. If you need to haul more weight than what the 2500HD can handle, then consider the 3500HD. Looking at payload and towing again, for example, let’s compare these trucks. As we saw, the 2020 Chevy Silverado 2500HD has a maximum payload of up to 3,979 lbs and a maximum towing of up to 18,500 lbs. By comparison, the 2020 Silverado 3500HD has a maximum payload of up to 7,442 lbs when properly configured, and can have a maximum towing capacity of up to 20,000 lbs. So yeah, if you need to handle a lot more weight than a standard pickup can deal with, then something like the 3500HD is definitely the right choice. A Final Word about Gooseneck Towing Those numbers are for conventional towing, by the way. If you are interested in 5th wheel or gooseneck towing, then you get even better performance out of a super-duty pickup like the 3500HD because it is designed for that kind of work. A 2020 Silverado 2500HD with a gooseneck can still only tow up to 18,500 lbs. But a 3500HD can handle up to 35,500 lbs when properly configured and using a gooseneck. Those numbers pretty well speak for themselves. Now you just have to figure out how much weight your truck needs to be able to handle and go from there. When you are ready to purchase your next heavy-duty Silverado, visit us at Raceway Chevy in Bethlehem, PA. We are proud to serve everyone in the Lehigh Valley and beyond. We'd love to discuss what your needs are and put you in the truck that works best for you with the power you need to get the job done.

Contrary to popular belief not all dealerships are the same. While you may find a wide selection of vehicles at multiple providers, there is no guarantee that you should be able to expect the same experience. Whether you’re seeking out a local Chevy dealer in the Lehigh Valley to help with auto repair or you’re searching for a brand new or used Chevy brand vehicle, every dealership has its own process, some good and some bad. To be fair, between Bethlehem, Allentown, and Easton (our amazing Lehigh Valley), there is a wide range of Chevy dealerships to choose from; however, few are willing to put in the extra work for their customers quite like we are at Raceway Chevy. Customers come to us from as far away as Philadelphia to seek out our one of a kind services and wide array of Chevy brand cars. Those who go the distance for our dealership understand that no matter what kind of auto-related services you’re looking for, going to a dealership that you trust truly matters. The Drawback of Going to Just Any Dealership Sure, there is a wide range of Chevy dealerships out there, but can you trust them to give you a worthwhile experience? Car buying, car maintenance, and basic dealership services can be incredibly complicated. A lot goes into making a great dealership experience, and our team at Raceway Chevy understands that it takes more than a good selection of vehicles and a number of automotive services to make a great dealership. If our showroom is a bit of a drive for you, you may wonder, ‘why not just go to the dealership down the road?’ Well, for one, said dealership might not treat you fairly. Far too often, dealers can hassle their customers into making a deal, and as a result, rope them into a deal that may be less than satisfactory. Buying a car, whether used or new, shouldn’t be taken lightly. It’s quite a commitment that in most cases involves several years, if not decades, of ownership; the last thing you want is to be strapped with a deal that doesn’t take your budget and finances into consideration. Another thing to consider when going to just any ordinary non-reputable dealership is the used selection. At Raceway Chevy, we inspect each one of our pre-owned vehicles from top to bottom, from wheel to wheel, and from trunk to hood; not every dealership can say the same thing. By buying from a non-reputable dealership, you can run the risk of sifting through a collection of used cars that have hardly been refurbished or even tested on the road. Like with buying a new car with a bad financial plan, buying an overpriced used car that hasn’t been thoroughly inspected nor repaired, can leave you with a commitment that you may not want in the long-run. Speaking of mechanical issues, one of the main services that many dealerships provide is automotive maintenance. These maintenance services can cover a broad range of areas, from maintaining your motor oil to servicing your tires and transmission. The inter-mechanics of a car can be incredibly complicated, and as such, requires great skill to service and maintain properly. If you go to any local dealership, you run the risk of putting your car in the hands of a technical team that may or may not be fully equipped to handle your car. On top of that, every engine and car is different, and some service professionals may not know what specific things your car needs to run smoothly. Sure, the ending service bill may be cheap, but there’s no guarantee that the work that’s been done on your vehicle will last. Of course, the biggest issue with going to a non-reputable dealership is the customer service factor. Nothing makes a great dealership experience quite like a team of auto experts who put the customer first. Unfortunately, non-reputable dealerships may not focus on the needs and desires of their customers. When you visit a dealership that doesn’t commit itself to the customer experience, you not only run the risk of having a terrible time, but you can end up with a car or final auto deal that is far from what you imagined. No, instead, you should go to a dealership that will bend over backward to fulfill your automotive wish-list, and help you find the car or provide you with the automotive services that exceed all expectations. How We Go the Extra Mile At Raceway Chevy, we always put our customers first. How do we make that possible? Well, when you visit our dealership to purchase a new or pre-owned vehicle, we’ll help you find something that fits your automotive needs like a glove. We believe that every customer that walks through our showroom doors is different, and also that there is a car out there for everybody. To us, the car you drive and your lifestyle go hand in hand. Are you a parent of four? Well, if so, we might suggest something like the 2020 Chevy Tahoe. This beefy three-row full-size SUV is the perfect family car with room enough to fit up to nine passengers. This is no shy SUV either, as optional beneath the hood of the 2020 Chevy Tahoe is a 6.2-liter V8 engine that delivers some truly remarkable power. Safety was a huge deal when designing the 2020 Chevy Tahoe as well, as smart features like automatic emergency braking and forward-collision alerts help protect you and everyone on board. Alternatively, you may be looking for a great commuter car; don’t worry, we’ve got you covered there too. Whether you commute down to Philly or tackle the rush hour traffic in Bethlehem, having a commuter car that is both good on gas and incredibly comfortable is highly valuable. Fortunately, for the regular commuter, we offer the 2019 Chevy Bolt. The Chevy Bolt is a top-ranking hybrid compact sedan that sports an onboard battery that gives drivers a stunning 238-mile range. On top of that, Chevy has outdone themselves, including active safety features in some models, offering things like forward collision alerts, lane keep assist, and rear cross-traffic alerts. No matter what vehicle fits your lifestyle, our team at Raceway Chevy will work tirelessly to help you find the perfect match. That said, we’re more than just the cars we sell and the dealers that help you find them. We also are home to a highly experienced financial team that will put all the effort necessary to help you find a deal that fits your budget. We understand that buying a car can be a huge commitment and that finding an affordable option is crucial in giving you an incredible driving experience. We’re no strangers to excellent auto maintenance either, and strive to hold our spot as one of the top auto maintenance providers in the Lehigh Valley. We understand the ins and outs and nuances of auto servicing and will deliver the expertise necessary to keep your car running smoothly, no matter the make or model. At the end of the day, our goal at Raceway Chevy is to give you the best dealership experience possible and to be your primary source for all of your automotive needs. We understand what makes a great dealership, and will put in the work to help you leave our showroom satisfied and grinning ear to ear.