I'm all for that, and I thank you for thinking of us :D Don't forget the plant that just closed in Wisconsin, the others in shreveport, etc.Quote:
Originally Posted by Mark75H
Picture for sho305
http://www.flint.lib.mi.us/gallery/b...KPLANT_jpg.jpg
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I'm all for that, and I thank you for thinking of us :D Don't forget the plant that just closed in Wisconsin, the others in shreveport, etc.Quote:
Originally Posted by Mark75H
Picture for sho305
http://www.flint.lib.mi.us/gallery/b...KPLANT_jpg.jpg
Strange things happen in Flint, heck it was noon and I pulled up by the hospital and here people are smoking crack in a little rusty old grand am next to me with the windows down...that was normal. Parts of South Detroit might beat them for nasty, but on average Flint is just so bad because the whole place is ugly.
That plant is HUGE. I clocked it at the time but I forget now what is it like a mile long? I remember going a long ways and finally at the end there were 20 cars in a little lot, this in the middle of any weekday. You have to see it to realize. Of course that is not the only empty rusty building there you could hide battle ships in. I see it on google satellite but can't figure out what one it was.
People have been leaving this state, for a while Uhaul had no trucks here and I'm not kidding. We are losing a house seat....and here the democrat friends of mine at the lake were telling me our six year governor was doing a good job a couple weeks ago. They actually said that, I was amazed. Of course one is on disability and the other works for the state. I couldn't find new population numbers last time I looked.
Someone told me the Mexicans (illegals) have been going back home? I have not looked that up yet, if there is any news about it. Said there is nothing for them to do here.
this one here....
I see that, did they take it out finally? Yeah look at the parking lot to the left of it, solid cracks, not been used in a long time.
Where do you draw the line? If you are a big, greedy, poorly managed company that employs lots of folks, does that qualify you for a bailout?
We do not need selective socialism.
Let GM &/or Ford go bankrupt and come out of bankruptcy with a plan or sell out to new owners with a plan. Maybe then LOAN the new owners money to get started. Operative word is LOAN not bailout and not status quo.
Management has had almost 30 years to turn this around and what's happened---more country club management.
Also, condition the LOAN on US factories employing US workers. Far too much manufacturing in Mexico by the big 3.
Just my $.02
froggy
This warehousing of people is what I saw here in Jax. Everyone who buys a big three car/truck is paying for this. Now they want the taxpayers who are too smart to buy them to pay also.Quote:
Originally Posted by RED ALERT
if our government would back off on some of the corporate taxes and other fees and taxes they put on industry in this country they wouldn't take the jobs overseas. the president-elect talked about jobs and in the next breath talked about raising corporate taxes. he needs to pick which one he wants cause imo you don't get both.
I thought the bailout was a loan, or you get some kind of security in return?Quote:
Originally Posted by froggy
Why would they be in this shape if there had not been a credit crunch by the banks, if the government would have controlled speculation in energy markets? They have high costs like many businesses in the US but they make hybrids and new models just like anyone else, they are competitive enough to stay in business when there is a market to sell to...but that market was taken away by some idiot democrats we can't blame, and idiot republicans and regulators that looked the other way.
The government did this and they better fix it without bending over millions more American workers. I for one can see just how good a job they have done the last decade, can you? You can say it will not affect you, lots of people been saying that for a long time, and I hope none of them have kids and grandkids. When these good paying jobs leave they don't come back, there is no recovery of them and no initiative to do so because "it does not affect me". How about when you pay more for healthcare than taxes and fica, how about when all you can get is $10/hr, how about when SS and medicare/etc go under? My health insurance is about $1160/month right now for a family, and we don't even use it. One could buy a fairly nice HOUSE here for that money. You don't make the money, then you don't afford all that good stuff. We just saw what happens when you borrow too much because you can't afford it, how stupid are people the country as a whole is doing the same thing. If we don't get back to creating wealth with high profit multiple manufacturing and cutting costs we are...so screwed.
I don't think taxes and fees are the big ones for out-sourcing labor aside from payroll, I think health insurance and other regulations/overhead are larger contributors. How much do you think health care and pension plans cost a company in China? If you want that care here you better make a better mousetrap. Same with education here in the US, we pay more than anyone and the quality is low...why is that? Why do we pay for the most expensive legal system in the world? We just can't afford all this stuff plain and simple, even if we could nobody is interested in making enough to do it because it is easier to leave. Either way all those costs come out of yours and my pocket, that is money you could still have in your pocket if this country had some management.
So the question is do we solve this problem by making more money, or by Americans paying more money and taking on a lower standard of living.
Do ya think?Quote:
I been reading there in a money crunch
Troll.Quote:
Originally Posted by neveragain
I think we have a small case of multiple-logins here.
You don't say :DQuote:
Originally Posted by Scream And Fly
Is that the old Buick City plant that was torn down?Quote:
Originally Posted by UP_ROKTOY
Quote:
Originally Posted by froggy
I agree with you on the country club management and what should have been done years ago. The unions are like a big tick on the ass of society and should be ditched ASAP. Move everything south, I say.
Sell out? Sell out? To who? The friggin Japs?
You cant have it every way you want. Sure we need to build them in the US, but guess what, the unions will skunk the companies even beyond where they stand and jack up labor costs from all the benies and 35 dollar an hour floor sweepers. Well then guess what, the cost of our American cars and trucks will be even further out of reach and we'll have to resort to the imports. For anyone to say let the US auto sector die does not understand the impact it will have. This is the last real Icon the US has in manufacturing. What about all the pensions? Dont forget about the thousands and thousands of retiree's that will have to be covered. Bankruptcy is not an option and Paulson basically doesnt have time to consider what happens to the Auto industry now. He is too busy worring about covering all the insurers that cover more paper across the world than anyone can possibly fathom. I hate to say it, but I am glad to see Pelosi actually do something right by going to bat for the auto industry.
Its time to kill the Unions people.
I heard on a radio show their was an article in the Wall Street Journal that compared the GM employee's pay and beni's to the Toyota employee's that were working at plants in Texas and the GM employees pay and beni's averaged out to 80 bucks an hour and the Toyota employee's averaged out to 40 bucks an hour. Anybody see the article?
Similiar, but from 2005.Quote:
Originally Posted by Hydrophobic guy
http://www.npr.org/news/specials/gmvstoyota/
Quote:
Profitability per Vehicle
Source: 2005 Harbour Report
GM:
Loses $2,331 per vehicle
Toyota:
Makes $1,488 per vehicle
Quote:
Average Hourly Salary for Non-Skilled, Assembly Line Worker
Source: Center for Automotive Research
GM:
$31.35/hour
NOTE: Includes idle workers still on payroll and those on protected status.
Toyota:
$27/hour
NOTE: Includes year-end bonus.
Quote:
Average Labor Cost per U.S. Hourly Worker
Source: GM & Toyota
GM:
$73.73
Toyota:
$48
I believe so, its been a while since I have driven through there, but I do know there are still some plants still standing.Quote:
Originally Posted by transomstand
I must say, and so what's wrong with this pic.? I don't hear much NATIONALISM from the people that say they live in this country ,sad all we seem to hear are faults not real reasons, anyways i'll keep reading though my int. is waning for sheeple....Quote:
Originally Posted by Hydrophobic guy
RichardKCMo
GM has been taking a $hit long before the credit crisis hit. Back in 2005 - 2006 they were shutting plants down. The credit crunch may just be the final nail in the coffin, something would have probably happened soon anyway.Quote:
Originally Posted by sho305
My whole point is; I and a lot of other Americans voted with our checkbooks not to support bad management and radical unions by not buying a sub-quality product at too high of a price.
Now it looks like the Government Democrats and their Union bosses are going to make an end-run around our choices and take our tax money and GIVE it to them to support their radical views of how to do business.
The Unions buying Democrat politicians on the commodity market is not how our tax money should be used.
This is the same situation as my Wife and me being forced to support the radical Teachers unions [another miserable failure] even if choosing a private school.
so you bought a sub quality product that supports slave labor AND a foreign country. :rolleyes: congrats.Quote:
Originally Posted by JR IN JAX
http://www.nlcnet.org/article.php?id=562
http://www.iht.com/articles/2007/07/...ss/sxlabor.php
http://piggington.com/ot_the_darker_...man_trafficing
So instead you bought a sub-quality product from a foreign manufacturer and took away american jobs.Quote:
Originally Posted by JR IN JAX
Do some research on initial quality, recalls, warranty claims and overall quality. You sound fairly ignorant.
This is great, by your espousing my ignorance, you have proved your willingness to make assumptions that exposes yours.
If you had deductive reasoning you would at least found out the I had bought a Canadian made Honda [a fantastic vehicle]. "Slave labor" is also forcing taxpayers to support overpaid thugs that use paid-for politicians to support their Communist "dream".
Instead you chose to blindly defend the losers that have to cry for my tax money since they don't know how to run a business. The word for this type of behavior is called "EXTORTION".
Get a real grip on reality, not just trying to protect the communist Unions and the management that "Enables" them and you.
Get a real job, then get a "Life".
I've said it through out this entire thread, you need to do some research and understand much more about imports, exports, domestic vehicles, transplant vehicles, part content, where the raw materials come from, taxes, tarriffs, loopholes, etc. Clearly you don't.Quote:
Originally Posted by JR IN JAX
You do have the right to choose to purchase a Honda, no argument there, but your grip on reality is underinformed.
The only ignorance that I continue to believe you have is the thought that domestic quality is poor compared to foreign quality. You prove the rest on your own.
I have bought two Hondas and both have been phenomenal vehicles. My Kids drive Toyotas and love them. They drove Fords before and grew to hate them.
I have/have bought a whole fleet of Ford Trucks, before that a fleet of Chevys.
They are/have been very disappointing in initial/residual quality.
Am I ignorant because I recognize something that is blatantly plain.
The Few WELL PUBLICIZED issues with Toyota came from the problem of them over-expanding due to their popularity. They recognized this and made apologies/good repairs to their customers.
They must not have abused their customers too bad since the consumers worldwide are flocking to buy their products.
They also are not asking the taxpayers to be forced to support their mistakes either.
Companies come and companies go. Their people get new jobs unless they get the power to extort money from people who would not buy from them.
LOL ignorance is bliss
:iagree:Quote:
Originally Posted by UP_ROKTOY
Dodge guy never had any serious issues on my 12th now.
Just sold a 2500 P/U with 275K was still goin strong.
Gotta take care of them.
http://www.caranddriver.com/news/car...kings_car_news
http://www.jdpower.com/autos/article...and-Large-Cars
Quote:
Highest Ranked: 2008 Chevrolet Malibu
Disproving the theory that all-new or redesigned models can’t achieve high levels of initial quality, the Chevrolet Malibu is the highest-ranking midsize car in initial quality in the 2008 IQS. By offering a clean exterior design and a stylish, rich-looking interior, the all-new, 2008 Chevrolet Malibu has impressed consumers and the auto-enthusiast press alike.
Based on the same platform as the Saturn Aura and Pontiac G6, the midsize 2008 Chevrolet Malibu is 6 inches longer than the 2007 model and, at 112 inches, is the longest Malibu ever and the same size as the 2008 Chevrolet Impala. The Malibu is available in four trim levels: LS, LT (1LT & 2LT), LTZ and Hybrid. Standard equipment highlights include remote keyless entry, power driver’s seat, Driver Information Center with oil-life monitor, OnStar and XM satellite radio. Options on the 2008 Malibu include electronic stability control; a variety of wheel packages; premium audio package; power seats; remote vehicle starter; and power-adjustable pedals.
Powering 2008 Chevrolet Malibu LS and LT models is a 169-hp, 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine, paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission. This powertain achieves 22 mpg city/30 mpg highway. The Malibu Hybrid is also powered by the same 2.4-liter, 4-cylinder engine, coupled with a special hybrid electric propulsion system. It generates 164 hp. EPA fuel-economy estimates for the Malibu Hybrid are 24 mpg city/32 mpg highway. Malibu LTZ models come equipped with a 252-hp, 3.6-liter V-6 engine and a 6-speed automatic transmission with a TAPshift feature, which enables the driver to shift manually with steering wheel-mounted shift controls. The 3.6-liter engine/6-speed automatic transmission powertrain combination is also available on 2LT models. EPA fuel-economy estimates for the Malibu LTZ are 24 mpg city/32 mpg highway.
Quote:
Ranked No. 3: 2008 Ford Fusion
Wow, you don't say, 5 out of 6 spots domestic?
Quote:
Large Car Segment
Highest Ranked: 2008 Pontiac Grand Prix
Following the departure of the Bonneville after the 2005 model year and until the recent arrival of the potent G8, the Grand Prix was the de facto “flagship” sedan of the Pontiac brand, if for no other reason than it was simply the largest, most powerful car in the model lineup. Alas, the G8 has arrived and Grand Prix production has officially ceased (2008 is the final model year). But there’s still some good news for anyone considering a Grand Prix purchase. For the third consecutive year, the Pontiac Grand Prix is the award recipient for highest initial quality in the large car segment.
As can be expected with any model in its final year of production, changes to the 2008 Pontiac Grand Prix are minimal. Most notably, the GT trim has been dropped, leaving only the base and high-performance GXP models. Also, a tire-pressure-monitoring system and OnStar are now standard, and three new colors are available. Standard equipment of note on base 2008 Pontiac Grand Prix models includes a power driver’s seat, remote keyless entry, and power windows and door locks. The GXP adds, among other items, fog lamps, a performance-tuned suspension, tire-inflation kit, heated front seats, dual-zone air conditioning, leather-wrapped steering wheel, Monsoon 9-speaker audio system, remote vehicle start, head-up display, dual chrome-tip exhaust, and a rear sport spoiler. Stability and traction control and 4-wheel ABS are standard on GXP, with all but stability control available on the base Grand Prix.
The base 2008 Pontiac Grand Prix is powered by a 200-hp, 3.8-liter V-6 engine. GXP models get a 303-hp, 5.3-liter V-8 engine with cylinder-deactivation technology. A 4-speed automatic transmission is mated to both engines. EPA fuel-economy estimates for the V-6 engine are 18 mpg city/28 mpg highway, while the V-8 engine gets 16 mpg city/25 mpg highway.
2008 Pontiac Grand Prix prices
2008 Pontiac Grand Prix photos
Get a price quote on a 2008 Pontiac Grand Prix
Ranked No. 2: 2008 Mercury Sable
The Mercury Sable, known until last year as the Montego, ranks No. 2 in the large car segment in the 2008 IQS. Along with the name change comes the addition of a bigger Duratec engine, upgraded interior and exterior styling cues, and features and options that are a step above its Ford brethren. The 2008 Mercury Sable comes in two trim levels—base and Premier—both offering front- or all-wheel drive. The 2008 Mercury Sable is powered by a 263-hp, 3.5-liter V-6 engine. The engine is mated to a new 6-speed automatic transmission that replaces the CVT from the Montego.
Ranked No. 3: 2008 Mercury Grand Marquis
The Mercury Grand Marquis and its twin, the Ford Crown Victoria, are two of the oldest models still being produced for the U.S. market. However, the Grand Marquis remains popular among full-size sedan buyers. And, according to consumers, the Grand Marquis also offers a high level of initial quality, as evidenced by its No. 3 ranking in the large car segment in the 2008 IQS. The standard 224-hp, 4.6-liter V-8 engine—the only engine choice for both the GS and LS trims—is a flex-fuel engine that can run on gasoline, E85 ethanol, or any mixture thereof. It is mated to a 4-speed automatic transmission.—Jeff Youngs
Not Bad, two more domestics in the top 3.
http://www.jdpower.com/autos/article...-Vehicles-(MAV)
Quote:
Large Premium MAV Segment
Highest Ranked: 2008 Lincoln Navigator
Improving one rank position from last year’s No. 2 segment ranking, the Lincoln Navigator receives the award for highest initial quality in the large premium MAV segment in the 2008 IQS. The Navigator continues into 2008 with added standard features. Since the model had an extensive refreshing in 2007, including the addition of a longer-wheelbase model, no major changes have been made for 2008. The Navigator was one of the first luxury SUVs on the market, and shares its platform with the Ford Expedition. With its full-size truck frame, the Navigator is capable of towing a maximum of 8950 pounds.
The 2008 Lincoln Navigator comes in regular- and extended-wheelbase (L) models. Both are available in rear-wheel-drive or 4-wheel-drive (2WD or 4WD) models. Standard items on this upscale SUV include genuine wood trim, high-intensity-discharge headlamps, dual-zone climate control, 10-way power seats for driver and front-seat passenger, power-adjustable pedals, keyless entry keypad, power liftgate, and 18-inch machined aluminum wheels. The extended-wheelbase “L” version adds 25 more cubic feet of cargo space over the short-wheelbase model, a cargo management system, and power running boards that fold in when the doors are closed.
The 2008 Lincoln Navigator features six air bags, including side curtain air bags, and Ford’s AdvanceTrac stability control system with Roll Stability Control is optionally available. Both features are designed to help the vehicle stay on the driver’s intended path and prevent it from rolling over during sudden maneuvers. A 300-hp, 5.4-liter V-8 is the only engine for both the regular- and long-wheelbase models. It is mated to a standard 6-speed automatic transmission.
2008 Lincoln Navigator prices
2008 Lincoln Navigator photos
Get a price quote on a 2008 Lincoln Navigator
Ranked No. 2: 2008 Infiniti QX
The Infinti QX ranks No. 2 in the large premium MAV segment in the 2008 IQS. The largest offering in the Infiniti lineup, the QX56 is a full-size SUV with up to 8-passenger seating accommodations. Consumers are offered a choice of 2WD or 4WD. Launched in 2004, the QX56 shares body-on-frame platforms and engines with the Nissan Titan pickup and Nissan Armada SUV. For 2008, Infiniti significantly refreshed the QX56. The interior was enhanced and updated with additional features and technology, and the exterior was upgraded with new front and rear fascias, new wheels and a new roof rack. The sole powerplant in the 2008 Infiniti QX56 is a 320-hp, 5.6-liter V-8 engine.
Ranked No. 3: 2008 Cadillac Escalade
Achieving the No. 3 ranking in the large premium MAV segment in the 2008 IQS is the Cadillac Escalade SUV. All new for 2007, the Escalade lineup gets a boost in 2008 with the addition of the Platinum limited-edition model, equipped with Magnetic Ride Control technology, LED headlamps, and new exterior and interior styling. For 2008, the Escalade and new Escalade Platinum are available in 2-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive configurations. Powering the 2008 Cadillac Escalade models is a 403-hp, 6.2-liter V-8 engine. A heavy-duty, 6-speed automatic transmission with two overdrive gears and tap up/tap down manual shift mode transfers the power to the wheels.—Jeff Youngs
What do you know, domestics one and two.
http://www.jdpower.com/autos/article...ckups-and-Vans
Will it ever stop? Domestics take 1 and 3 Toyota sandwiched in the middle....Quote:
Midsize Pickup Segment
Highest Ranked: 2008 Dodge Dakota
Improving two rank positions from last year’s No. 3 segment ranking, the Dodge Dakota captures the midsize pickup segment award in the 2008 IQS. For 2008, Dodge amps up the Dakota’s performance with a new 4.7-liter V-8 engine that can run on E85 ethanol fuel, classifying it as a Flexible Fuel Vehicle (FFV). The Dakota Crew Cab has the most interior room in its class, Dodge claims, with 37 cubic feet, and seating for up to six. Dakota also has the largest standard cargo bed in its class, and best-in-class towing capability (up to 7050 pounds), according to the manufacturer.
For 2008, the Dodge Dakota lineup includes two body styles—Crew Cab and Extended Cab—and six trim levels: ST, SXT, SLT, TRX, Sport and Laramie. All are available in 2- or 4-wheel drive. There are two cargo bed options: with the Extended Cab, the cargo bed is the longest standard in class at 78 inches, while the Crew Cab has a 64-inch cargo bed. Both feature built-in utility rails and a dual-position tailgate. Revised exterior styling includes new front fascias with available fog lamps, sleeker fenders, and a rear spoiler that Dodge says aids fuel economy.
The 2008 Dodge Dakota lineup features two different engines: a 210-hp, 3.7-liter V-6 unit coupled to a 6-speed manual transmission (standard on all V-6 engines except Sport and Laramie); and an all-new, 290-hp, 4.7-liter V-8 engine with Flex Fuel capability (able to operate on E85 ethanol fuel and classified as an FFV) connected to a standard 6-speed manual transmission. A 5-speed automatic transmission is available on the V-8.
2008 Dodge Dakota prices
2008 Dodge Dakota photos
Get a price quote on a 2008 Dodge Dakota
Ranked No. 2: 2008 Ford Ranger
The Ford Ranger is the No. 2-ranked model in the midsize pickup segment in the 2008 IQS. Originally introduced in 1983, the Ranger has not seen a significant design update since 1998. It comes in two cab styles: regular cab and extended SuperCab. The SuperCab is available with 2 or 4 doors, including two rear-hinged rear access doors. SuperCabs come with a 6-foot cargo bed, while regular cabs also offer a longer 7-foot bed. Regular cabs have seating for 3, while SuperCabs can seat 5 with two fold-down rear jump seats. One 4-cylinder and two V-6 engines are offered, and the Ranger is available with rear-wheel drive or 4-wheel drive. The Ranger shares its platform with the Mazda B-Series.
Quote:
Large Pickup Segment
Highest Ranked: 2008 Chevrolet Silverado LD
Redesigned for the 2007 model year, the Chevrolet Silverado light-duty pickup is ranked highest in the large pickup segment in the 2008 IQS. With three cab styles, three box lengths, four engines, and a maximum towing capacity of 10,500 pounds, Chevy’s popular pickup offers some minor refinements to pique consumer interest in 2008. Improvements include new brighter-lit instrument pointers, a new optional integrated trailer brake controller, and a new optional power seat on Regular Cab models, while XM satellite radio and one year of OnStar are now standard.
For 2008, consumers can choose a Chevrolet Silverado 1500 in Regular Cab, Extended Cab or Crew Cab, in rear-wheel drive (RWD) or 4-wheel drive (4WD) configurations. Three box lengths are offered: 5-ft. 8-in., 6-ft. 6-in., and 8-ft., along with five trim levels. The basic Work Truck (WT) is a short box, available as a Regular, Extended or Crew Cab. The LS trim (Crew Cab only) adds features such as remote keyless entry, power windows/door locks/mirrors, 17-inch chrome styled-steel wheels, and black foldaway, power heated, outside rearview mirrors. Silverado 1LT models (Reg., Ext. & Crew Cab) have V-8 engines (depending on model) and an auto-dimming inside rearview mirror with compass and temperature display. Silverado 2LT adds, among other items, 6-way power adjustable front seats with memory; dual-zone automatic temperature controls; steering wheel-mounted audio controls; fog lamps; and 17-inch custom aluminum wheels. LTZ models add heavy-duty trailering equipment; an automatic locking rear differential; leather front bucket seats; 10-way power adjustable front seats with memory; a Bose sound system; remote vehicle start; and a heated windshield washer fluid system.
Engine choices for the 2008 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 vary by model and include a 195-hp, 4.3-liter V-6; 295-hp, 4.8-liter V-8; 315-hp, 5.3-liter V-8 with an iron or aluminum block and with flex-fuel capability; and a 367-hp, 6.0-liter V-8. All engines are mated to a 4-speed automatic transmission with tow/haul mode. A super-duty transmission is optional for LT and LTZ models, and the manufacturer provides a 5-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty.
2008 Chevrolet Silverado (LD) prices
Get a price quote on a 2008 Chevrolet Silverado (LD)
Ranked No. 2: 2008 Toyota Tundra
After a rocky 2007 launch that resulted in several recalls for quality problems, the Toyota Tundra ranks No. 2 in the large pickup segment in the 2008 IQS. All-new for 2007, the 2008 model receives a handful of features added as standard equipment, and has added 13 additional models for a total of 44 offerings. The 2008 Toyota Tundra comes in three cab styles: Regular, Double Cab and CrewMax, and in 2- or 4-wheel drive. Buyers can opt for standard-bed or long-bed length, and base Tundra, SR5 or Limited trim levels. The base powerplant for the 2008 Toyota Tundra is a 236-hp, 4.0-liter V-6 engine. The entry-level V-8 engine is a 276-hp, 4.7-liter V-8. Toyota also offers a larger, 381-hp, 5.7-liter V-8 engine. The V-6 and 4.7-liter V-8 engines are mated to a 5-speed automatic transmission, while the 5.7-liter V-8 engine is paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission.
Ranked No. 3: 2008 Chevrolet Avalanche
Achieving the No. 3 ranking in the large pickup segment in the 2008 IQS is the Chevrolet Avalanche. The 2008 Avalanche is carryover from 2007, when it was redesigned, but does offer a few enhancements for 2008. Avalanche’s main claim to fame is its unique Midgate, which opens a panel between the cabin and bed to extend the bed from 63 to 99 inches. With the rear seat up and Midgate closed, the Avalanche has 6-passenger seating. Available in rear-wheel drive or 4-wheel drive, the Avalanche offers two V-8 engines (a standard 320-hp, 5.3-liter V-8 and an optional 366-hp, 6.0-liter V-8), including an E85 flexible-fuel version. A 4-speed automatic transmission with overdrive is standard on all 2008 Avalanche models.
You gotta be kidding me, domestics take two of the top three again?
Quote:
Van Segment
Highest Ranked: 2008 Ford E-Series
Improving two rank positions from last year’s No. 3 segment ranking, the Ford E-Series receives the award for highest initial quality in the van segment in the 2008 IQS. Ford's E-Series has been the best-selling full-size van in the U.S. since 1980, according to Ford. The 2008 model year marks the first major alteration to the E-Series since 1992, and only the fifth major revision since Ford introduced its first flat-nose van nearly 50 years ago. The 2008 E-Series is not a completely new design. Though all sheetmetal forward of the windshield pillars is new, Ford notes that other sheetmetal, including doors and seat mounting points, are unchanged. The E-Series also received suspension, steering and braking changes for 2008.
Ford offers the 2008 E-Series van in several configurations. Passenger versions are available in E-150 and E-350 Super Duty (SD) form, as well as the extended-length (15-passenger) E-350 SE, and come in XL and XLT trim levels. The XL includes front air conditioning, AM/FM radio, and vinyl seats and floor covering. An interior upgrade package adds cloth seats and carpeting, power windows and locks, better sound insulation, and improved interior trim. The XLT includes cloth seats and carpeting, CD player, power mirrors/windows/locks, and cruise control. A new XLT Premium package replaces the 2007 model’s Chateau trim level. It includes front and rear leather captain's chairs, a power driver's seat, remote keyless entry, alloy wheels, and running boards. Cargo vans come in E-150, E-250 SD, and E-350 SD forms as well as extended-length E-250 SE and E-350 SE.
2008 Ford E-Series prices
Get a price quote on a 2008 Ford E-Series
Ranked No. 2: 2008 Nissan Quest
The top-ranked minivan in the 2008 IQS, the Nissan Quest ranks No. 2 overall in the van segment, below the Ford E-Series. Nissan completely redesigned the Quest for the 2004 model year. The Quest received a facelift in 2007 that redesigned the front fascia and the dashboard. In 2008, Nissan has added more standard features to several of the models, and added a new exterior color. The 2008 Nissan Quest is offered in four different models: Quest 3.5, Quest 3.5 S, Quest 3.5 SL and Quest 3.5 SE. All models share the same powertrain—a 235-hp, 3.5-liter V-6 engine and a 5-speed automatic transmission. The model differences are found in the equipment levels, cosmetics and passenger seating configurations.
Ranked No. 3: 2008 Chevrolet Express Achieving the No. 3 ranking in the van segment in the 2008 IQS is the Chevrolet Express. The full-size Express is little changed from 2007. All-wheel drive is available in 1500 Passenger and Work models only, while rear-wheel drive is standard. Passenger models offer 8-, 12- and 15-passenger seating configurations and come in LS and LT trim levels. LS, popular for fleet service, includes intermittent wipers, air conditioning, AM/FM stereo, enhanced driver information center, and a theft-deterrent system. The more family-oriented LT trim includes rear air conditioning, power windows and door locks, rear window defogger, full-floor carpeting, remote keyless entry, custom cloth upholstery, and front bucket seats
Those damn mis-managed domestic automakers putting out pure crap...I cant believe them.
Hydrophobic I am a chevy guy, had nothing but great luck with my chevy trucks, ZERO complaints from me. I've owned 6 of them.
I owned one toyota, I learned that lesson.
You will always find an unhappy owner of every vehicle, and a happy owner of every vehicle, so you and I arguing about who's car is the best is fruitless.
I just can't believe the ignorance and un patriotic behavior of someone who could care less about american companies, american workers, american job loss and the american economy and takes such an elitist attitude about it.
But then again what do I know.
And they are more foreign than my Honda because it is assembled in Canada ;)Quote:
Originally Posted by UP_ROKTOY
OK, now it's time to hear from somebody that's been in the auto industry for over 18 years. I've been everything from a salesman, used car manager, new car manager, finance manager, finance director, and General Sales Manager. I'm currently a finance director at a Honda Store. The current state of affairs for the domestic brands has nothing to do with quality. They are currently building the best products in their history and have done so for the last 6 years. I will put up any GM/Chrysler/Ford vehicle to any import..and the quality, fit and finish, and technology is there. The crisis arrises from the publics perception and bad media rap. The media thrives on beating the domestic auto industry to death. Yes, at one time the domestic vehicles were inferior to the imports but it hasn't been that way for some time. GM builds more economical cars than all the imports put together..but is that publicised by the mass media..NO! GM's factories have recieved more awards and recognition by JD Powers & assoc. than any import factories..is that publicised by the mass media..NO. When Toyota or Honda or Mazda have a recall, they make no big fuss about it..but the minute GM, Ford or Chyrsler have a recall..NEWFLASH, it spead all over the world in a heartbeat....and the minute word gets out that sales are down and rumors start spreading that the us auto makers are losing money, the public looks elsewhere to buy their cars...and the us automakers lose even more money. IT'S A SNOWBALLING EFFECT, and a very sad one. It's the US auto industry that this nation was built on. It was the US auto industry that jumped in and produced much of what was built during WWII to save our asses...and yet we buy Japanese cars (and German cars) WTF!!! If I didn't need a paycheck, I would not be working for Honda..but unfortunately, my multi franchise dealership sends me where the most business is. As far as I'm concerned, if you want to save this great nation, throw every import; Toyota, Honda, Mazda, Lexus, Infinity, Hyundai, Kia, VW, etc. out of this country, CLOSE THE GATES..the hell with fair trade and the import/export market. Half these cars are not even built in the countries they are titled from yet the American $$$$$ goes to those nations. Again, WTF!! We now have Hondas sold in America that are being built in India because the labor is so cheap there..so lets see, the ignorant American is buying a Honda (or Toyota, etc,) because they have been brainwashed into thinking that the import is better and gets better fuel economy. Honda is using the $$$ from the ignorant American to pay some poor cheap Indian laborer in a foreign country to build this "Japanese" car. The money Honda saves goes to Japan...who already owns most of the US anyway!!!! And if all these imports are such great cars..why do they have service departments??? Just like the domestics...all cars, no matter where they are made, eventually break down.
Hey, all you pro-domestic guys, look to your right, and look to your left, see those walls? Good, because you would get them to talk back to you before the america haters agreed with anything you say.
They say 1 in 10 jobs is connected to the auto industry. Just today they said GM alone spends $2 Billion a year in advertising. You want to see chaos, if they go down you will see it. This is mostly a matter of the credit crunch not allowing people to buy cars just like in housing. Any large item needing credit has been hit hard by this financial system failure, in addition to credit a company uses to implement daily business. Sure the automakers have done a poor job of dealing with unions, but they have reduced big pay union workers by huge numbers. Most they just moved out of the country, a loss for the worker! They need to do more but that is not today's issue that is hurting them. Some of you need to take an economics class before you say things, right now you are talking about another great depression happening and you DON'T want to live through that. We need to save these companies and need to keep people in their mortgages, and stimulate the economy; the flow of money. If we don't you can be guaranteed your life will be tough for some time and you can kiss boating and whatever you American dream is goodbye for a while. GM makes money outside the US, they are even the largest automaker in China.
I am amazed nobody wants to blame the people that caused this financial mess and fix the underlying issues. Our lives could well turn to complete *&%# if this does not happen soon, I figure once Christmas shopping season is over we are hosed if no action is taken. If the consumer is 66% of the economy and 10% of them lose their jobs (providing only automakers go under) just what do you think will happen? Yes, another big round of mortgage defaults to kill financials again as well. We already have layoffs starting and no large companies have hit the dirt yet, that means unemployment is already higher than stated. That adds up to double digits easy, not a pretty situation.
I don't think protectionism is the answer, I think it is mostly a matter of government (I mean lack of) policy on health care and pensions/etc. US companies can't operate well under that weight and so you get outsourced labor. The government taking some small steps towards fixing this could have larger effects, such as reducing health care costs, government waste and corruption, energy market speculation, and so on. Of course this has little to do with the financial meltdown they largely set in motion.
Here is typical example of the state government here: A while back they had a big union go around with the auto makers, on how many plants would go away and what pay would be. From what I heard they came up with X plants would close and present workers left still get the big money but not any new workers they get half pay or something....same deal they always make; save the old farts at the cost of jobs. The democrat governor could have gone in there and tried to save jobs by keeping the plants here and getting the union to deal but no, she stayed far away. She helped the unions and us by letting thousands of great jobs go out of the state, didn't she? Once they shutter that plant do you know what it takes to open one again? Those are the best paying blue collar jobs in the state, so just what is this state government trying to do? So of course, that means higher taxes for the rest of us or less services. Automakers are the economic base of this state and the government here is happy to wave bye-bye to them, they have taken lessons from the federal government is the only thing I can figure out.
Hate America is right, and we are gonna pay for it too.
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Originally Posted by JUPITER PULSARE
Good post, I emphasized a few things for our slow readers.
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Originally Posted by JUPITER PULSARE
I cut to the chase. :DQuote:
Originally Posted by UP_ROKTOY
beautious :D:thumbsup:Quote:
Originally Posted by Hydrophobic guy
Pretty good post:thumbsup:Quote:
Originally Posted by JUPITER PULSARE
I have 37 years in the industry, about 30 of those in fixed operations. I gave up with these arguments a long time ago, because as you say, your not arguing against reality, your arguing against a perception.
So because I [and most others] don't want to buy a car that is mostly made in Mexico and the rest is by a radical Union that supports everything I am against, I am an America Hater?
Get real.
Surely you all can come up with a better reason than that to Steal Tax money and give to your Union Bosses.
I support my country but not the Communists who want to take over it's Government.
I will continue to buy American..including Mercury, MerCruiser, and Evinrude!!!!:thumbsup: If you want to buy Japanese..buy freakin TV or clock radio or electric razor...........but leave the car buying within the USA!!!!!;)