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What does LTZ stand for on a Chevy Truck?

Chevy Silverado LTZ | Rydell Chevrolet Buick GMC of Grand Forks

The Chevy Silverado 1500 LTZ is a great fit for so many drivers in and around Grand Forks. Chevy trucks have been enabling work and play all over North Dakota and Minnesota for generations, but the newest iteration is special. Thanks to intelligent use of high-strength steel, it's stronger yet lighter. Plus it has an engine for every need. At Rydell Chevrolet GMC, we understand why the Silverado is more popular than ever.

The LTZ trim is a very common choice. In Chevy lingo, LT means "Luxury Touring." The Z means nothing specific, but is a nod to Corvette designations like Z51 and Z06. Maybe the Z means "Zoom." How does a Silverado LT compare to an LTZ? Basically, the LT comes with the most popular performance equipment. The LTZ adds luxury elements to the basic truck. Yet the LT and LTZ only start the conversation. The Silverado can get fancier, simpler, or more powerful.

LT to LTZ Upgrade

Image via Flickr by RL GNZLZ via CC BY-SA 2.0

The Silverado LT can do most everything the average person needs it to do. The standard 310 horsepower 2.7-liter turbo four-cylinder delivers plenty of punch with surprising economy. Need more power? You can achieve nearly double the displacement by swapping out the standard engine for a 355 horsepower 5.3-liter EcoTec V-8. Both engines are paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Towing increases from 9,500 to 11,500 pounds when you make the switch. The LT also comes nicely equipped with features such as heated front seats, a heated leather-wrapped steering wheel, a 10-way power driver's seat, and dual-zone climate control.

But what about the Z? Step up to the LTZ trim, and you'll get the Bose premium sound system, leather seats, a Chevytec spray-on bedliner, a larger driver information center, navigation, LED headlamps, and more. Chevy's Infotainment 3 Premium and wireless charging make the LTZ a classy mobile office. It's ready for white collar and blue collar work. But do you every feel like you're piling firewood in the back of a luxury car? What happened to the humble trucks?

All About Business

Sometimes the best tool for the job is a simple one. We enjoy the comfort of the modern executive pickup, but when it comes to trucks and luxury, sometimes less is more. The Silverado WT ("work truck") gets back to the truck's dirty roots. You get two naturally aspirated engines: the 5.3-liter V-8 or the 4.3-liter EcoTec V-6 for more fuel efficiency. A six-speed automatic transmission comes standard. Basic features like a regular cab, 8-foot bed, vinyl seats, halogen headlamps, and a smaller information cluster will remind you of a simpler time for trucks. Thanks to Bluetooth and a back-up camera, though, the WT it still up-to-date.

Looking for more connectivity and capability without all the fanciness of the LTZ? Choose the Silverado Custom. Get cargo bed lighting and the trailering package to pull nearly 6 tons. You'll get OnStar, keyless entry, SiriusXM, and a 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot. This trim enjoys some modern touches, but it still has cloth seats and rubberized floor mats so it's comfortable at the job site. Work truck configurations, with or without a bed, are customizable and endless.

So Many Engines

You've already seen mention of three engine choices for the 1500, but there are three more. Picking the right Silverado might begin with falling for an engine and transmission combination. What can you put under the hood?

  • 2.7-liter Turbo I4: 310 horsepower and 348 pound-feet of torque with the eight-speed automatic.
  • 3.0-liter Duramax Turbo-Diesel I6: 277 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque with the eight-speed automatic.
  • 4.3-liter EcoTec3 V-6: 285 horsepower and 305 pound-feet of torque with the six-speed automatic.
  • 5.3-liter Ecotec3 V-8: 355 horsepower and 383 pound-feet of torque with the six-speed automatic.
  • 5.3-liter EcoTec3 V-8 with Dynamic Fuel Management and Auto Stop/Start: 355 horsepower and 383 pound-feet of torque with the eight-speed automatic for increased fuel economy.
  • 6.2-liter EcoTec3 V-8 with Dynamic Fuel Management and Auto Stop/Start: 420 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque with the 10-speed automatic. Tows up to 13,300 pounds.

Silverado's engine choices allow you to strike the perfect balance between power and economy. You can achieve that elusive target of just enough engine. So what do you tow? What do you haul and how much does it weigh? Know how much capability you require, then browse until you find the powertrain you love.

Going Heavy Duty

Chevy 2500 Logo with dried mud on it
Image via Flickr by Tony Faiola via CC BY 2.0

Maybe a Silverado 1500 just isn't big enough for your ambitions and camping plans. In that case, you may need to step up to the three-quarter-ton Silverado 2500 HD or 1-ton 3500. With a towing capacity of up to 36,000 pounds, choosing one of these models means you can say yes to every towing and hauling job. 

More good news: LTZ means just about the same in HD. Special heavy-duty touches include a power lock and release tailgate and hitch guidance with hitch view. The LTZ is a refined beast. You still have the practical options of WT, LT, or Custom trim. However, the best-equipped HD is the High Country. Get special 16-spoke, 20-inch polished aluminum wheels, a power up and down tailgate, the Bose sound system, heated rear seats, and extensive leather and wood throughout the interior.

Your engine choices are simpler. Choose the 6.6-liter gas V-8 with a six-speed automatic to tow up to 17,370 pounds. Get serious with the 6.6-liter Duramax Turbo-Diesel and 10-speed Allison transmission combination. Some serious truckers will only tow and haul with a Duramax and an Allison. Seat up to six and carry everything with the double cab, long bed version. 

The Chevy Silverado LTZ is a great choice, but far from the only one. In the Silverado family, you have an amazing array of engines, options, and special features. That's before looking into the HD range, where the Silverado becomes a work hero. Buying a house doesn't involve this much choice. Contemplate your next truck thoroughly. Bring your trade down to Rydell Chevrolet so we can talk trucks.

No amount of research replaces a quality test drive. Driving is why so many of our veteran staff are in the business. They love to share the joy of driving the right machine. Consider all the options you have with the Silverado name alone. To find the perfect truck, you'll need the right guide. You can meet your guide at Rydell Chevy today.

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What are the Pros and Cons of Buying or Leasing a Vehicle?

Deciding whether to buy or lease a vehicle is one that many individuals encounter at some point in their lives. Both options have their advantages and drawbacks. It's essential to carefully consider your priorities before making a choice. There are many pros and cons of buying and leasing a vehicle, and various factors that can influence your decision. Ultimately, the choice you make should align with your financial situation, lifestyle, and long-term goals. Defining these goals can ensure that you get the most out of your investment in a mode of transportation. more Buying a Vehicle Advantages of Buying a Vehicle Ownership and Equity: When you buy a vehicle, you become the owner. This means the vehicle is an asset that you fully own once the auto loan is fully paid off. Your vehicle builds equity with each monthly payment, which means you are investing in an asset that can hold value over time. You can tap into this equity if you decide to sell or trade in the vehicle. No Mileage Restrictions: You can have unlimited driving with no mileage restrictions when you own the vehicle. You have the freedom to drive as much as you want without worrying about exceeding any limits or incurring extra charges. Personalization: As the owner, you have the liberty to make any customizations or modifications to your vehicle to suit your preferences and needs. As a result, you can paint it, upgrade the sound system, or add aftermarket accessories. Disadvantages of Buying a Vehicle Higher Initial Costs: Buying a vehicle typically requires a significant downpayment, which can be a large upfront expense. The initial cost can strain your finances, making it challenging for some buyers. You can apply for financing through our website. Value Depreciation: Vehicles lose value over time due to factors like wear and tear, mileage, and market fluctuations. When you buy a vehicle, you bear the full brunt of this depreciation, which can result in a substantial loss in resale value. Maintenance Costs: As the vehicle owner, you are responsible for all maintenance and repair costs. Over time, these expenses can add up, especially if the vehicle experiences significant issues or requires major repairs. Leasing a Vehicle Advantages of Leasing a Vehicle Lower Monthly Payments: Lease payments are typically lower than loan payments for the same vehicle. This can make it more affordable for individuals with tighter budgets to drive a newer car. You can use our payment calculator to estimate your monthly payment. New Vehicles Regularly: Leasing Allows you to drive a brand-new car every few years. This means you are consistently driving a vehicle that's under warranty, which can minimize repair costs. Limited Repair Costs: Most lease agreements include warranty coverage for the duration of the lease. This means that you can be protected from unexpected repair costs as long as you stay within the terms of the warranty. Disadvantages of Leasing a Vehicle No Ownership: When you lease a vehicle, you are essentially renting it for a specific period. While leasing, you do not build equity, and at the end of the lease term, you do not own the vehicle. Mileage Restrictions: Lease contracts come with mileage restrictions that typically range from 10,000 to 15,000 miles per year. If you exceed these limits, it can result in costly excess mileage fees. Limited Customization: Leased vehicles often have restrictions on modifications and customizations. You may not be able to make significant changes to the car's appearance or performance. Making Your Decision Consider Your Lifestyle Consideration: When deciding between buying and leasing, consider your daily driving habits and plans for the next three years. Buying: Ideal for those who prefer long-term ownership and driving without restrictions. Leasing: Suiting for those who want a new car every few years, with lower monthly payments, and minimal repair hassles. Financial Evaluation Budget: Determine what you can comfortably afford in terms of down payment and monthly expenses. buying often requires a higher initial budget while leasing offers lower initial costs. Long-term Goals: Consider your long-term financial goals. Buying may provide a more significant investment over time, while leasing offers short-term affordability. Whether to buy or lease a car involves careful consideration of these pros and cons, as well as your individual preferences and financial situation. Take the time to evaluate your priorities, conduct research, and consult with a financial advisor if needed. Your choice should align with your needs, ensuring that your next car is a perfect fit for your life on the road. Contact us at Rydell Chevrolet GMC in Grand Forks, North Dakota with any questions you may have.

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Top 6 Holiday Vacation Rentals in Thompson

Traveling for the holidays can feel completely overwhelming, especially when you're trying to find the perfect accommodations. Staying in a hotel can sometimes be frustrating, especially if you're a light sleeper who wakes easily when people open and close nearby doors. Sometimes your best bet might be to find a condo, duplex, or home that you can rent. Luckily, if you find yourself in the Thompson, North Dakota, area, you can stay at one of these six perfect holiday vacation rentals. more Comfortable Condo Image via Flickr by SFU - Communications & Marketing CC by 2.0 Found in Grand Forks, this one-bedroom condo is close to the University of North Dakota and the Alerus Center. The condo includes a queen bed and sleeper sofa as well as access to a hot tub, indoor pool, and 24-hour fitness center. Use the free Wi-Fi and curl up to watch your favorite shows on the flatscreen television. Heading into the kitchen you'll find a dishwasher, stove, microwave, refrigerator, and coffee maker. Complimentary parking is available along with self-serve guest laundry facilities. Guest Suite Basement Apartment This comfortable guest suite basement apartment in Grand Forks sits directly below the owner's main house. When you arrive, you'll walk through the shared laundry area that includes a bathroom and shower stall. From there, you'll find the private entrance to your guest suite. Straight ahead is the living room, which includes workout equipment you're welcome to use. The apartment also includes a kitchenette for all your cooking needs. The bedroom with a walk-in closet is to the right of the kitchenette which includes a queen bed and an air mattress. After a long day celebrating the holidays, unwind and watch some television with access to Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, HBO Max, HULU, Netflix, and Roku. The apartment also includes fast Wi-Fi with 52 Mbps. Families will enjoy the board games available, and those traveling with infants or toddlers can use the high chair and travel crib. If you're bringing a vehicle, you can park in the driveway or utilize the free street parking. Longer-term stays are available if you are planning to be in the area for a while. Historic Brick Duplex Found near Riverside Park, this historic brick duplex is fully furnished and well maintained. You'll have access to two bedrooms, both with queen beds, and one bathroom in this second-floor apartment. The balcony overlooks the backyard, and since the home is on a corner lot, you can gaze out at the nearby park. Its kitchen is completely stocked with dinnerware and cookware and includes a refrigerator, microwave, dishwasher, stove, oven, and coffee maker. Curl up with a blanket in front of the indoor fireplace and the 48-inch television. You can also use the free washer and dryer in the building. Park your vehicle in the on-site garage or use the free street parking. For your convenience, the owners allow you to drop off or store luggage if you have an early arrival or late departure. Long-term stays are allowed. Charming Two-Bedroom Home Situated near the University of North Dakota's campus in Grand Forks, this two-bedroom, two-bathroom home is in a quiet neighborhood within walking distance of several restaurants, bars, and stores. Each bedroom has a queen bed, and the kitchen includes a refrigerator, oven, stove, microwave, coffee maker, as well as dinnerware and cookware. A full-size washer and dryer are available for you to use. Wi-Fi speed is up to 100 Mbps, so up to two people can connect as many as six devices. If you need a little time to decompress, catch up on some shows on the smart television. Parking is available on the street for free; otherwise, you can park your vehicle in the private garage for an additional fee. Also, depending on the weather, you can use one of the included bicycles and ride around the area. Long-term rentals are available. The Keeper's Inn This one-bedroom duplex in Grand Forks is the perfect spot to stay during the holidays while you visit with your family or just want to get away for a bit. The Keeper's Inn is conveniently situated near grocery stores, shopping, and restaurants, giving you ample opportunity for some downtime. The rental features one queen bed and a sleeper sofa as well as a kitchen stocked with a microwave, refrigerator, stove, oven, cooking utensils, and dishware. Stay connected thanks to free Wi-Fi, and relax while watching television connected to standard cable. It includes a separate entrance as well as a backyard. Free parking on the premises and the street are provided, and if you need to stay longer, you can reserve the residence for 28 days or more. Quaint Country Retreat Located just 5 miles from a plethora of shopping, restaurants, and other types of entertainment, this 1930s country home found in Grand Forks is an ideal spot to celebrate the holidays. You have access to privacy outdoors since it's surrounded by trees and farmland, with the nearest neighbor about 0.25 miles away. You can use the front deck, back patio with charcoal grill, and fire pit, depending on the weather. Stay warm in its on-site private sauna. You can even bring your furry family member as the rental allows pets to stay. Stepping inside, you'll notice plenty of antiques, all of which belonged to the owner's great-grandparents. Two of the three bedrooms contain a queen bed, while the third bedroom has a double bed. This family-friendly rental also includes a high chair, books and toys, a travel crib, baby safety gates, and outlet covers. The kitchen includes a refrigerator, microwave, stove, oven, dishwasher, and coffee maker as well as all cookware and dinnerware. You can also use the rental's laundry. This is another rental that allows for longer stays if needed. Finding the perfect accommodations in Thompson for the holidays doesn't have to be time-consuming or frustrating. Any one of these six-holiday vacation rentals, which Rydell Chevrolet GMC highlighted, can give you the perfect place to rest your head and recharge for festive celebrations. If you're familiar with the area and believe we've missed a rental worth checking out, reach out to us so we can add it to our list.

Chevy silverado

All About the 2022 Chevy Silverado

The 2022 model year Chevrolet Silverado lineup is one of the most capable, versatile, and powerful truck lineups in the United States today. We'll go into detail below on three of the six Silverado sizes: 1500, 2500HD, and 3500HD. more The Silverado 1500 This pickup can tow up to 13,300 pounds and sports 89.1 cubic feet of cargo space. It is most popularly powered by a Duramax 3.0-liter turbo-diesel six-cylinder granting 277 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque, but three other engines are available. This engine setup includes an improved exhaust system, a tuned-air induction system, and special sound-absorbent materials. The 1500's advanced trailering system monitors tire trailer pressure, lighting, and other factors so that you tow safely every time. Camera packages with up to 15 units are available, so you'll be able to see everything around your truck on the road ahead. The 1500's trim levels include the Work Truck, Custom, Custom Trail Boss, LT, RST, LT Trail Boss, LTZ, and High Country. The second engine option is a 2.7-liter turbo four-cylinder with automatic stop and start and an active fuel efficiency management system. It gets 310 horsepower and 348 pound-feet of torque. The third engine option is a 5.3-liter V-8 EcoTec3 engine granting 355 horsepower and 383 pound-feet of torque. It has the same special features like the 2.7-liter but is also available without automatic stop and start. The fourth available engine is a 6.2-liter EcoTec3 V-8, providing 420 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque. It is also available with and without automatic stop and starts. The Silverado 2500HD The Silverado 2500HD can tow up to 18,510 pounds and comes with a more heavy-duty grille. Two 6.6-liter V-8 engines are available with this truck: one diesel and one regular gas. The diesel version provides 445 horsepower and 910 pound-feet of torque. The regular gas version grants 401 horsepower and 464 pound-feet of torque. The diesel engine comes with a range of special attachments, including a special exhaust brake, an engine block heater, a winter grille cover, and capped fuel filler. The gas engine comes with a six-speed automatic transmission, while the diesel comes with a 10-speed Allison automatic transmission. The 2500 HD comes in five trim levels: the Work Truck, LT, Custom, LTZ, and High Country. Its standard exterior features include high-visibility vertical trailering mirrors, an integrated BedStep unit, 17-inch wheels, tinted solar-absorbing glass, and 12 cargo tie-downs that can handle 500 pounds each. It comes with the Chevrolet Infotainment 3 system, which includes a 7-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth, voice command activation, and app mirroring through Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. The Silverado 3500HD The 3500HD version can tow up to 36,000 pounds and comes with a metallic grated grille and a body-colored front bumper. The 3500HD comes with the same engine options and transmissions as the 2500HD. An Autotrac 2-speed transfer case with push-button controls is standard, as are brake pad wear indicators, chrome recovery hooks, digital variable steering assistance, and Durabed heavy duty bed lining. The trailer brake controller is integrated, the StabiliTrak system greatly increases stability and traction, and skid plates are available. If you want to off-road drive on top of your heavy-duty work, go with the suspension package for maximum ride quality. The Silverado 3500HD comes in four trim levels: the Work Truck, LT, LTZ, and High Country. It comes with 18-inch wheels, black beltline bolting, cargo area cab lamps, 12 cargo tie-downs, and a CornerStep rear bumper. Its interior features include vinyl upholstery, a pair of USB ports, a 12-volt DC power outlet, and an exterior temperature display. It comes with the same infotainment system as the 2500HD, but it can be upgraded to carry the 360L premium version of SiriusXM satellite radio, which can be played through its crystal-clear seven-speaker Bose sound system. Exterior Paint and Interior Upholstery Options The 2022 Silverado 1500 and the HD Series 3500 and 2500 trucks have different options where exterior paint and upholstery are concerned. The 1500 is available in Cherry Red Tintcoat, Oxford Brown Metallic, Shadow Grey Metallic, Black, Summit White, Silver Ice Metallic, Northsky Blue Metallic, Satin Steel Metallic, Red Hot, and Iridescent Pearl Tricoat paint colors. Upholstery options for the 1500 include Jet Black Cloth, Jet Black Leather-Appointed front seats, Gideon Very Dark Atmosphere Cloth, and Gideon Very Dark Atmosphere Leather-Appointed front seats. The 2500HD and 3500HD share sets of available paint colors and upholstery options. Their available paint colors are Northsky Blue Metallic, Iridescent Pearl Tricoat, Red Hot, Silver Ice Metallic, Summit White, Black, Mosaic Black Metallic, Greenstone Metallic, and Cherry Red Tintcoat. Their upholstery options include Jet Black leather front seats and cloth back seats and Gideon Very Dark Atmosphere leather front seats and cloth back seats. Towing Package, Suspension Systems, and Training Systems If you're going to be towing, choose the Trailering Package. It comes with a 7-pin connector, a trailer hitch, and a hitch guidance system. 1500 comes with a new four-leaf spring rear suspension system. The 2500HD comes with multi-leaf spring suspension in the back and short and long arm suspension in front. The 3500HD has short and long arm suspension reinforced by torsion bars in front with a three-stage multi-leaf suspension in the back, granting it far more stabilizing power than the other Silverado versions. The Chevrolet Teen Driver Technology safe driver training system is programmed to help you teach positive driving habits to your young driver or trainee. This system allows you to set maximum speed limits, maximum radio volume, and maximum range limits. When the new driver is done with their trip, the system will generate a driving report card to send to your personal smart device. This report card will aid you in refining the new driver's skills. No matter which tier of 2022 Silverado you choose to tackle your work with, you're making a solid decision. They can handle incredible loads and carry you in comfort. Contact us at Rydell Chevrolet GMC in Grand Forks, North Dakota, to find out more about these amazing vehicles. Our kind and attentive staff will happily guide you through our impressive inventory to the truck of your dreams.