Forgotten Chevrolets of the past decade
The automotive world has been buzzing about the 100th anniversary of Chevrolet. The Detroit Free Press, MSNBC and even this Indian auto blog have commemorated the legendary brand. When you think about all the iconic Chevrolet cars over the years the first cars that probably come to mind are the Camaro, the Corvette or perhaps the Silverado.
What about the forgotten cars of Chevrolet’s past? Don’t think long-lost past, just think in the last decade alone. Make the jump to see if you can remember these notorious flops, but don’t feel bad if you don’t because Chevy wants to keep it that way.
Chevrolet Uplander (2005-2009)
It has the body of the minivan and the front end of a sport utility vehicle. On paper it sounds like a winner, in actuality the Chevrolet Uplander never fared well for obvious reasons (see picture above). After a four year life span, it was replaced by the full size Chevrolet Traverse crossover.
Fun Uplander Fact: It was the last minivan produced with a gearshift on the steering column versus the center console.
Chevrolet Classic (2004-2005)
Originally launched as the fifth-generation Chevrolet Malibu in 1997, it was renamed the Chevrolet Classic after the sixth-generation Malibu was released in 2005. People remain puzzled by this decision even today.
Fun Classic Fact: The Classic was originally only for rental and fleet sales which means these cars have been well used. Very well used.
Chevrolet HHR Panel (2007-2011)
Chevrolet hoped to pick up on the hoopla surrounding the Chrysler PT Cruiser by releasing the HHR. Only problem was the PT Cruiser was launched in 2000 and the HHR seven years later in 2007 when the hype for retro wagons was dead. This didn’t stop Chevy from trying though and they even released the panel variant for commercial purposes.
Fun HHR Fact: HHR stands for “Heritage High Roof” and based off the design of the 1949 Chevrolet Suburban.
Chevrolet Colorado (2004-2012)
The Colorado mid-size pickup is the best-looking vehicle out of these forgotten Chevys, but their sales were so bad that the brand considered dropping the Colorado from their lineup indefinitely. Luckily, Chevy is going to make another go at it, announcing a newly-redesigned Chevrolet Colorado that will re-launch next year.
Fun Colorado Fact: The Colorado can go from zero to 60 miles per hour in a blazing fast 9.9 seconds.
Photo credits: chevrolet, howstuffworks
Nov 03, 2011 @ 17:06:00
Colorado is still a sweet looking truck! And a good size for someone who doesn’t actually need a pickup but wants one bcuz theyre COOL!
Nov 03, 2011 @ 18:46:00
Totally agree, C Man. The older Colorado has a more rugged look than even the new one.
Nov 03, 2011 @ 18:53:00
Have the Colorado get better gas mileage and it will sell. Like 28 to 35.
Nov 03, 2011 @ 18:59:00
The Colorado 4 door had a bed that was useless. The regular cab wasn’t big enough for a typical american. I almost bought the 4 door but ended up bying a Silverado instead.
Nov 03, 2011 @ 19:58:00
Let’s not forget the SSR. The Chevy Classic, if you notice the body style, was also the Impala Classic.
Nov 03, 2011 @ 21:21:00
You are better off to buy a full size pick up with a V-6 engine. Similar gas mileage and you can carry a 4 x 8 sheet of plywood, etc.
I think resale is better as well as parts avail. and pricing. So the minor fuel mileage advantage the smaller truck has is lost in the long run. Of course I’m from the full size generation, but my mind is open. I may concider buying a Volt someday but it would be in addition to a Camaro.
Nov 03, 2011 @ 23:21:00
I think the main thing you missed is that a smaller SUV is way more affordable right off the bat than those full size trucks, even with smaller engines