Gm Cars: Australia's Incoming Lineup

what gm cars are coming to australia

General Motors (GM) is expanding its Australian lineup of subsidiaries in local showrooms, with the GMC brand set to become the third GM brand in Australian showrooms in 2025, joining Chevrolet and Cadillac. This expansion will bring a range of GM products to Australia, including the GMC Yukon SUV, the Chevrolet Corvette C8 Stingray, the hybrid-powered Corvette E-Ray, and the Chevrolet Silverado 1500 and HD models. In addition, the introduction of the GMC brand and all-electric Cadillac models opens the door for more of GM's electric models, such as the Hummer EV and electric versions of the Silverado and Sierra pickup trucks.

Characteristics Values
GM Brands in Australia GMSV, Chevrolet, Cadillac, GMC
Cadillac Models Lyriq, Optiq, Celestiq, Vistiq
Chevrolet Models Blazer EV, Equinox EV, Corvette, Corvette C8 Stingray, Corvette E-Ray, Silverado, Silverado 1500, Silverado EV, Silverado HD
GMC Models Yukon, Yukon Denali, Sierra pickup
Other GM Models Hummer, Hummer EV
Other Brands Mentioned Subaru, Kia, BMW, Audi, Mercedes-Benz, Range Rover, Lexus, Nissan, Lamborghini, Porsche

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GM's expansion plans for Australia

General Motors (GM) is expanding its range of vehicles in Australia, with a focus on electric vehicles (EVs) and sports utility vehicles (SUVs). The company is aiming to compete with other electric car makers such as Tesla, BYD, Ford, Toyota, Hyundai, and Kia.

In addition to GMC, GM is also bringing the Cadillac brand back to Australia, marking the first time in over 60 years that Cadillac will be officially available in the country. The Cadillac Lyriq electric vehicle (EV) SUV will be the first model introduced, followed by other Cadillac EV models such as the Celestiq flagship fastback sedan and the Optiq luxury electric car. The Ultium platform, designed for right-hand-drive markets, enables GM to bring a range of electric vehicles to Australia, including more affordable options from Buick and Chevrolet.

GM's expansion plans also include the introduction of the Chevrolet Blazer EV and the Chevrolet Equinox EV, which will offer affordable and accessible options in the SUV and crossover segments. The Chevrolet Corvette, already available in Australia, will be joined by the hybrid-powered Corvette E-Ray. Additionally, the Chevrolet Silverado 1500 and HD models will be part of GM's expanded lineup, with the possibility of electric versions in the future.

GM's strategy in Australia demonstrates its commitment to the market and its ambition to offer a diverse range of vehicles, including electric options, to cater to the needs and preferences of Australian consumers.

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Cadillac Lyriq electric vehicle (EV) SUV

The 2025 Cadillac Lyriq is an electric vehicle (EV) SUV that is expected to be released in Australia by the end of next year. It is a luxury EV that focuses more on style and comfort rather than power and performance. The Lyriq offers a range of features that make it a competitive option in the EV market.

In terms of performance, the Cadillac Lyriq has a reasonably quick acceleration, reaching 60 mph in 5.7 seconds for the rear-wheel-drive model and 4.6 seconds for the all-wheel-drive model. While this is slower than some of its EV rivals, it is still considered quick for shoppers who don't prioritize performance. The Lyriq's suspension is tuned to favour comfort, providing a smooth ride over smooth pavement, although it may lose some of its smoothness over rougher roads.

The Lyriq's cabin is handsomely styled and upscale, and its infotainment system is straightforward to use. The EPA range estimates for the Lyriq are impressive, cresting 300 miles, although individual results may vary. The vehicle also features an aggressive regenerative braking system that allows for one-pedal driving, as lifting off the accelerator pedal is often enough to slow the vehicle down in most day-to-day driving scenarios.

The Cadillac Lyriq is expected to lead GM's electric car push in right-hand-drive markets, including Australia. The Lyriq's BEV3 EV architecture, dubbed Ultium, has been specifically designed and developed with right-hand-drive applications in mind, making it a suitable option for Australian drivers.

The introduction of the Cadillac Lyriq EV SUV in Australia opens up the possibility for an entire portfolio of related Cadillac EV models to enter the market, including the Celestiq flagship fastback sedan and a range of SUVs and crossovers.

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Chevrolet Silverado 1500 and HD models

The Chevrolet Silverado is a full-sized dual-cab pickup truck that has been remanufactured in Melbourne under the General Motors Specialty Vehicles (GMSV) umbrella. It is one of the most popular GM vehicles in Australia. The Silverado 1500 is a light-duty pickup truck, while the Silverado HD models are heavy-duty pickup trucks. The HD models include the Silverado 2500 HD and Silverado 3500 HD, which offer increased towing and payload capacities compared to the 1500.

The Silverado 1500 and HD models offer a range of powerful engine options, including petrol and diesel variants. They also come with a variety of features, such as a spacious and comfortable cabin, advanced safety technologies, and a range of customisation options. The Silverado 1500 and HD models are known for their durability and versatility, making them popular choices for both personal and commercial use.

In terms of performance, the Silverado 1500 and HD models offer impressive capabilities. The 1500 can tow up to 4,500 kg, while the HD models can tow even heavier loads, with the 2500 HD capable of towing up to 8,000 kg and the 3500 HD capable of towing up to 12,000 kg. In terms of payload capacity, the Silverado 1500 can handle up to 800 kg, while the HD models can manage even heavier loads, with the exact capacity depending on the specific model and configuration.

The Chevrolet Silverado 1500 and HD models offer a range of trim levels and packages to cater to different needs and preferences. The LT Trail Boss and Custom Trail Boss packages offer enhanced off-road capabilities, while the High Country package provides a more luxurious experience. The Silverado HD models also offer a range of specialised packages, such as the CarHauler and Gooseneck packages, which further enhance their towing capabilities for specific applications.

Overall, the Chevrolet Silverado 1500 and HD models offer a unique combination of power, versatility, and customisation options, making them a popular choice for Australian customers. With their impressive capabilities and features, these vehicles are well-suited to the diverse needs and demanding conditions of the Australian market.

Faxing Overseas: Australia from the US

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GMC Yukon SUV

General Motors (GM) is expanding its lineup of subsidiaries in Australian showrooms, with the introduction of the GMC brand, marking the first time in over 60 years that GMC will be available in Australia. The GMC Yukon SUV is the brand's only vehicle confirmed to go on sale locally, giving it a competitor in the full-size SUV market.

The GMC Yukon is an eight-seat SUV, bigger than a Toyota LandCruiser 300 Series or Nissan Patrol. It is one of the largest SUVs sold by GM, with a standard model measuring 5.33 metres long, 2057mm wide, 1943mm high, and riding on a 3071mm wheelbase. There is also an extended Yukon XL that measures 5720mm long. The Yukon shares its underpinnings with the Chevrolet Silverado pick-up, as well as the GMC Sierra pick-up, Chevrolet Tahoe SUV, and the even-larger Chevrolet Suburban and Cadillac Escalade SUVs.

The Yukon's premium interior includes leather throughout, a large 16.8-inch infotainment touchscreen, a panoramic sunroof, a head-up display, and Bose speakers in the headrests. The second row includes captain’s chairs with the same leather seating and Bose speakers in the headrest. The Denali model, which will be available in Australia, is powered by a choice of 3.0-litre inline six-cylinder turbo-diesel and 6.2-litre non-turbo V8 petrol engines.

The GMC Yukon will be remanufactured from left- to right-hand drive in Melbourne by the Walkinshaw Automotive Group, the former parent company of Holden Special Vehicles. It will be sold in General Motors Specialty Vehicles (GMSV) showrooms alongside the Silverado and Chevrolet Corvette supercar. The Yukon is expected to be priced at around $150,000 once imported and remanufactured.

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Chevrolet Corvette C8 Stingray

The Chevrolet Corvette C8 Stingray is a bold new chapter in the history of this iconic American sports car. With its mid-engine layout, striking design, and exhilarating performance, the C8 Stingray breaks new ground while staying true to the Corvette's legacy of power and precision.

The C8 Stingray's bold design is accentuated by iconic Corvette elements, including a prominent front grille, sleek LED headlights, and muscular rear haunches. The mid-engine configuration enhances weight distribution, resulting in improved handling and stability. At the heart of the C8 Stingray lies a potent 6.2-litre V8 engine, producing 495 horsepower and 637 Nm of torque. With the available Z51 Performance Package, the car accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 2.9 seconds. The 8-speed dual-clutch transmission enables lightning-fast shifts and precise gear changes.

The C8 Stingray embraces advanced technology to enhance performance and driver enjoyment. The driver-centric cockpit features a reconfigurable digital instrument cluster and an infotainment system with a large touchscreen. The Performance Data Recorder allows drivers to record and analyse their driving performance, capturing high-definition video, performance data, and telemetry.

The exterior design of the C8 Stingray is a full supercar experience, with colours like Riptide Blue, Cacti Green, and Sea Wolf Grey. The interior is more akin to a fighter jet, with all controls and displays aimed at the driver. The car offers comfort features such as heating, ventilation, and electronic adjustment, as well as safety tech including blind-spot monitoring, lane-keep assist, front and rear cameras, autonomous emergency braking, and a collision warning system.

The 2024 Chevrolet C8 Corvette Stingray 3LT is available in Australia for $215,000 plus on-road costs, backed by a 3-year or 100,000 km warranty.

Frequently asked questions

GM is bringing its GMC brand to Australia for the first time, with the GMC Yukon SUV joining the local range in early 2025.

The Chevrolet Corvette C8 Stingray, the Silverado 1500 and HD models, and the Cadillac Lyriq electric vehicle (EV) SUV are already available in Australia.

Given that the Silverado 1500 range starts at $121,000, the GMC Yukon Denali is expected to cost over $150,000 and possibly close to $200,000.

There have been accusations that GM treated Australian government grants as free cash, taking taxpayer money and sending it back to the US. Some Australians have also expressed their disappointment in GM for shutting down manufacturing and moving it offshore.

GM's presence in Australia provides job opportunities and contributes to the country's economy. Additionally, GM's electric vehicle (EV) offerings provide Australians with environmentally friendly transportation options.

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