Best Hiking Trails near Flemington, NJ

Posted on June 22, 2015 by Spencer Phillips

For a lot of Washington, Bridgewater, and Somerville, NJ, residents celebrating summer means exploring the great outdoors. And those seeking the best hiking trails near Flemington, NJ, are in luck because nature parks and preserves that offer top-notch hiking trails for a sunrise trek, a midday climb, or an evening adventure surround the town.

Let this guide be a launching point to discovering the local beauty that surrounds Flemington and start checking off your summer hiking trail musts:

Black River County Park Trail | Chester, NJ

Those looking to hike a trail that tells a story will enjoy taking on the Black River Park Trail. Quite the historic hike, this particular trail lies in place of the railroad tracks on which trains shipped the area’s iron ore around the country in the 1800s.

best trails for hiking near flemington, njNow a dirt path enshrouded in a beautiful wooded border, this 6.4-mile trail winds along the Black River by retired mine areas and down to Kay’s Pond. Hikers can take note of historical markers set along the trail that detail the area’s past. Of course, you can weave your own route too by lengthening the loop to 8 miles or strolling a shortened segment from the Cooper Mill visitor’s center to Chubb Park.

Cushetunk Mountain Preserve| Lebanon, NJ

Cushetunk Mountain Preserve is located about 10 miles north of Flemington and offers a tri-color split of marked hiking trails that span 5 miles. The white loop from the parking lot to the meadow is considered a moderate option.

Hikers inspired to take on the challenging Ridge Trail are rewarded with stunning views of Round Valley Reservoir, New Jersey’s deepest body of water. Whether you’re walking your pooch, hiking with friends, or mountain biking, keep your eyes peeled for the preserve’s resident pair of bald eagles as well as many native birds and reptiles.

Echo Hill Park | Flemington, NJ

Those looking for family-friendly hiking and play will enjoy Echo Hill Park. Once home to a summer camp and farm in the early 1900s, the buildings still nestled throughout Echo Hill continue its educational roots by hosting summer nature classes for children and families.hiking trails near flemington, nj

After munching on lunch at the picnic area, meander Echo Hill’s trail circuit that loops around the perimeter of the park, over a mile in length on compacted soil. The trail snakes through habitats rich in wildlife and by a stunning panorama over Prescott Brook.

Washington Valley Park | Martinsville, NJ

Washington Valley Park offers a variety of scenic views accessible through moderate to difficult level trails that sprawl over slightly rocky terrain. Trails wind by two of the park’s reservoirs and Buttermilk Falls. The red, orange, and yellow trails combine to 6.8 miles and get hikers going from the start with a steep upward climb that leads through wooded areas dotted with beautiful overlooks. Pick and choose your own path for an exhilarating hike or biking adventure!

Whether you’re looking for a quick jog or walk or a full day’s quest, Flemington offers a variety of grand hiking trails perfect for exploring nature near Washington, Bridgewater, and Somerville.

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4th of July Fireworks in Washington Township, NJ

Posted on June 15, 2015 by Spencer Phillips

Every year, Americans gather to celebrate their independence with fireworks, barbecues, and festive shindigs. It’s an appropriate way to honor the sacrifices that were made and the new opportunities that were given to each and every American.

As a representation of our freedom and the birth of the United States, no Fourth of July should be without fireworks and fun, and that includes for the citizens of Washington Township, NJ.

4th of july washington, njThe highlight of any Fourth of July celebration is always fireworks, and Washington Township knows exactly how to do that. If you’re looking for some entertainment, visit Washington Lake Park or Washington Township High School, where you can see a fireworks display on Friday, July 3at 9 pm. Admission is free and open to the public. There will also be a variety of live bands playing for your enjoyment.

With new funds to hold the annual Fourth of July parade that accompanies the fireworks, the full celebration will begin at Washington Township High School starting at 6:30 pm.

Flags will be handed out to those who participate and glow toys can be purchased for children or those who are interested.

Whether you’re looking for a relaxing evening with friends and family or simply wish to enjoy the bright display presented by the city, it will be memorable night regardless.

In the event of rain, the makeup date is Sunday, July 5. For more information, call 856-589-0520.

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Best Outdoor Dining in Flemington, NJ

Posted on June 15, 2015 by Spencer Phillips

outdoor dining in flemington , njFlemington is more than shopping, whether it’s for bargains at the outlets and malls or for cars. Excellent restaurant choices abound, including eateries offering outside dining. Some of the best combine peculiar local personalities and original, hearty fare.

Shaker Cafe

Tucked in a storefront at 31 Main Street, the Shaker Cafe features sidewalk dining for sandwiches, breakfast, brunch, and its renowned Mexican Night on Fridays. Featuring the freshest ingredients and original thinking, the Shaker Cafe combines a delightfully quirky interior with great, simple dishes.

Hot lunch selections include the BLTA wrap (bacon, lettuce, tomato, avocado, and chipotle mayonnaise), salsa cheddar hamburger, and grilled turkey with tomato, cheese, and honey mustard.

A sampling of Shaker’s salad offerings include the Combo, which is chicken salad, tuna salad, and egg salad in pairs or all three, and the Venetian chicken salad with tomatoes, onions, hot peppers, carrots, Romaine lettuce, and herbed Italian dressing tossed with chicken.

Friday brings Mexican Night, with a long menu of south-of-the-border offerings. Enjoy posole stew served with a salad and a yogurt corn muffin, grilled fresh salmon tacos with mango salsa and lime slaw served with Mexican rice and black beans, bean and cheese chimichangas served with Mexican rice and beans, and Bunuelos (sweet Mexican sundae) with vanilla ice cream.

The Shaker Cafe is open year-round Tuesdays through Thursdays from 7 am to 3 pm, Fridays from 7 am to 9 pm, Saturdays from 8 am to noon, and Sundays from 8 am to 1 pm. Reach them at 908-782-6610 or contact them online.

Cook-to-Order

A BYOB restaurant and deli, Cook-to-Order (CTO) has an English garden patio that provides a fun but intimate outdoor dining atmosphere. Chef and owner Brendan Stokes comes from Yorkshire, England, bringing with him a healthy respect for classic fare.

From appetizers to pizza to cold sandwiches, CTO provides plenty of light dishes, including coconut shrimp, vegetable samosa, and goat cheese salad. Entrees include the crab cake sandwich, pulled pork barbecue, fish ‘n’ chips, surf and turf, and flat-iron steak

Located at 299 South Main Street, CTO can be reached at 908-284-1172 or online to learn more or discuss catering your next Flemington party.

Matt’s Red Rooster Grill

This contemporary American restaurant ranks equal to or better than many New York City dining spots. Chef, owner, and passion-keeper Matt McPherson uses locally grown ingredients, a wood-fired grill, and a beautifully restored Victorian home to set an ambience that locals and visitors find appealing.

Outdoor dining on the porch gives you a great view and plenty of fresh air. The menu includes appetizers such as the balsamic pickled beet, grilled asparagus with jumbo crab meat, and the farmers’ artisan cheese plate.

outdoor dining flemington, njLighter fare such as their carrot ginger soup, Red Rooster seafood chowder, and signature grilled romaine salad are both healthy and original.

These beginning pieces set up the main course beautifully, which include lemon-grilled lobster tails, 30-day dry-aged steak, cedar plank roasted salmon, wood-fire grilled ahi tuna, and coffee-rubbed pork tenderloin.

If you have room for dessert, the pastry chef strives for fun and toothsome delicacies, with plenty of variety. Matt’s is a BYOB eatery with no corkage fees. Bring your bottle and Matt’s Red Rooster Grill supplies decanters and wine glasses. Keep in mind the constantly changing menu, based on the ingredients available and the innovative mind of Chef McPherson.

Matt’s Red Rooster Grill is open for dinner at 22 Bloomfield Avenue Tuesday through Friday from 5:30 pm to closing, Saturday from 5 pm to closing, and Sunday from 5 to 8 pm. Call 908-788-7050 or visit their website for more information.

No matter where in Flemington, NJ you chose to outdoor dine this summer, we were at Rossi Buick Chevy GMC hope you and your family have a great time!

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Where to take your Dad for Father’s Day

Posted on May 29, 2015 by Spencer Phillips

Fun Facts About Washington Borough, NJ

andrea's in washington, njWashington Borough, NJ, was founded in 1868 after being purchased from Native Americans in 1713. This lively little city continues to delight the people who call it home as well as visitors to New Jersey. Much of its history has been preserved, and you can even take a peek at the outer foundation of the old Washington Trust Company bank vault that was built in 1926.

Dining Out for Father’s Day

The area around Washington Borough has some great places to take Dad for a either a casual or a formal meal for Father’s Day. From diners to elegant restaurants, you can either find it in Washington proper or close by.

• For a mix of old world and modern hip, visit Andrea’s Dining room in Long Valley. The menu has a variety of meals to satisfy your palate, and the staff is friendly and accommodating.

• If Mexican food is Dad’s favorite, be sure to visit Juanitos. The food is fresh, and portions and prices are great. The atmosphere is unique, fun, and colorful.

father's day in washington, nj• Treat the special man in your life with an elegant dinner at Mediterranean Bistro. With holiday specials and a diverse European cuisine, you can be sure that your Father’s Day celebration will be a memorable one.

• Everyone loves pizza and sometimes, even on special occasions, a good pizza place is what you want. Cornerstone Tavern and Grill serves up wonderful pizzas and can accommodate large groups. Specialty drinks and decadent desserts will add to the Father’s Day fun.

Activities

• Does your special man enjoy a good walk or hike or does he like to bike? There are numerous trails around Washington Borough, including the Buckwha Creek Trail, South Bethlehem Greenway, and Nor-Bath Trail. You can find hiking and walking paths for every skill level and length.

fathers day washington, nj• If your guy enjoys art, make sure you visit The 5 East Art Gallery. There will be a mixed media display by artist Mike Brennan throughout the month of June and a special reception on Thursday, June 18 from 6 to 9 pm.

• For the watercolor enthusiast, you can enjoy the Musconetcong Watercolor Group exhibit from Sunday, June 14 through Sunday, June 21 at the Washington Township Public Library.

• Taking Dad to a musical event during Father’s Day week is also an option, and there are several offerings to choose from, including Johnny Campbell & The Bluegrass Drifters and Clambake.

Whatever activity you choose to do for Father’s Day in Washington Borough, NJ, you’ll create a memory that will last forever.

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The Perfect Car Tips for Any Trip

Posted on March 25, 2015 by PattiSue

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Across the country people are planning to take longer road trips this year. If you plan to be one of them, here are five maintenance tips to consider for today’s cars.

* New tires? “For four-wheel drive cars and trucks, buy new tires as a complete set,” says Engineer and Vice President of Rock Auto, Tom Taylor. “Mixing old and new tires or just mixing tire brands can create small differences in tire diameter that may be enough to overheat and damage four-wheel drive parts.”

* What spare tire? Adding air to the spare used to be all that was needed, but many newer cars do not have a spare tire. They may have “run-flat” tires or come equipped with an air compressor and sealant. Become familiar with your vehicle’s spare tire system before you leave town and decide if it is adequate. Maybe you will want to upgrade to a full size spare.

* Why new struts? Pushing down on a fender and counting the bounces is not a good test for the shocks and struts on modern cars. “Some people are happy that their struts seem to be lasting forever but they don’t realize that the struts actually wore out thousands of miles ago,” says Taylor. “Bad struts lead to unnecessary wear on a whole slew of additional parts including the brakes, rubber boots, suspension bushings and engine mounts.” For the safest handling and braking, replace your struts and shocks at 50,000 miles or at the mileage recommended by the manufacturer.

* Just the belt? Modern engine belts last a long time. Most car owners do not resist when their mechanic tells them it is time to replace the belts after many miles or years. “Owners should listen to their mechanics when they are told the belt tensioners need to be replaced along with the belt,” says Taylor. “Those are the spring-loaded pulleys that keep the belt at the correct tension. Putting a new belt on old tensioners can mean premature wear on the new belt or damage to the alternator or other components spun by the belt.”

* Hose looks new? New engine hoses also now last much longer than they used to. Hoses do eventually fail and the damage often starts in the hose’s inner layers where it is out of sight. A burst radiator hose still means a disrupted trip and today’s aluminum alloy engines are often even more susceptible to heat damage. Follow the guidance of your repair manual or mechanic on when to replace hoses.

Some owners may get away with leaving a radiator hose untouched for decades, but for the rest, common sense assessment of risks and rewards shows why these tips are worth following.

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Defeat drowsy driving dangers: Tips for staying awake at the wheel

Posted on March 25, 2015 by PattiSue

 

One in five fatal accidents in America involves a drowsy driver, according to a recent report from the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety. Unfortunately, driving while fatigued is common in today’s business world. Yet the consequences of driving when you’re tired can be tragic.

“Drowsiness is similar to alcohol in how it compromises driving ability by reducing alertness and attentiveness, delaying reaction times, and hindering decision-making skills,” says Dr. Nathaniel Watson, president-elect of the American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM) and national spokesperson for the National Healthy Sleep Awareness Project, which is raising awareness of the dangers of driving while fatigued. “Drowsy driving is deadly, but it can be prevented.”

The Healthy Sleep Project has issued a Drowsy Driving Health Advisory, which urges every driver to take responsibility for staying “Awake at the Wheel.” Drivers should make it a daily priority to get sufficient sleep, refuse to drive when sleep-deprived, recognize the signs of drowsiness, and pull off the road to a safe location when sleepy.

“Rolling down the windows or turning up the music will do little to increase your alertness while driving,” Watson says. “You can drink coffee for a short-term energy boost, but if you catch yourself drifting into other lanes or nodding off, it’s absolutely time to pull over and take a nap.”

Getting seven to nine hours of nightly sleep is the best way to prevent drowsy driving, according to the Healthy Sleep Project. Drivers should also avoid driving late at night or alone, and they should share the driving with another passenger on long trips.

How do you know if you’re too sleepy to drive? If you experience any of these warning signs, you should pull over or have another passenger take the wheel:

* You keep yawning or are unable to keep your eyes open.

* You catch yourself “nodding off” and have trouble keeping your head up.

* You can’t remember driving the last few miles.

* You end up too close to cars in front of you.

* You miss road signs or drive past your turn.

* You drift into the other lane of traffic.

* You drift onto the “rumble strip” or onto the shoulder of the road.

The Healthy Sleep Project also encourages transportation companies to promote public safety by adhering to hours-of-service regulations, scheduling work shifts based on sleep need and circadian timing, implementing an evidence-based fatigue management system, and screening commercial drivers for sleep diseases such as obstructive sleep apnea.

“There is no substitute for healthy sleep – it’s essential to promote personal safety and optimal alertness behind the wheel,” Watson says. “Evaluate your sleep habits, address potential problems with a board-certified sleep specialist, and make sleep a priority to protect yourself, your passengers and other drivers from avoidable, life-threatening accidents caused by drowsiness.”

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2016 Chevrolet Volt Interior Makes EV Driving Personal

Posted on February 12, 2015 by PattiSue
The all-new 2016 Chevrolet Volt electric car with extended range showcases a new brandy interior along with a sleeker, sportier design that offers 50 miles of EV range, greater efficiency and stronger acceleration.

The all-new 2016 Chevrolet Volt electric car with extended range showcases a new brandy interior along with a sleeker, sportier design that offers 50 miles of EV range, greater efficiency and stronger acceleration.

The all-new 2016 Chevrolet Volt’s contemporary passenger environment is designed to be fresh and inviting, with intuitive technology interfaces and attention to detail conveying an upscale ambience.

“The 2016 Volt maintains the high-tech interior design aesthetic of the first-generation Volt, but has more user-friendly elements creating an inviting balance between ambiance and functionality,” said Crystal Windham, Chevrolet Interior Design director. “The new interior will appeal to existing owners, but also to those who will be new to the Volt family because of its integrated, yet familiar technology.”

Like the exterior, the Volt’s cabin flows with sculpted cues, visual jewelry and a greater emphasis on form. The instrument panel, for example, flows into the door panels, while the center portion of the instrument panel flows almost seamlessly into a more ergonomic center console.

Like the exterior, the Volt’s cabin flows with sculpted cues, visual jewelry and a greater emphasis on form. The instrument panel, for example, flows into the door panels, while the center portion of the instrument panel flows almost seamlessly into a more ergonomic center console.

Like the exterior, the Volt’s cabin flows with sculpted cues, visual jewelry and a greater emphasis on form. The instrument panel, for example, flows into the door panels, while the center portion of the instrument panel flows almost seamlessly into a more ergonomic center console.

New colors, blue ambient lighting and softer materials surround occupants and enhanced acoustic performance provides a quieter and refined environment.

Additional customer comfort and convenience features include:

  • Standard rear-vision camera
  • Enhanced charge status indicators – including a light on top of the instrument panel that can be viewed at a glance from outside the vehicle
  • Center armrest that is longer and higher than the current model
  • New storage bin in the front console
  • Available heated rear seats
  • Available heated steering wheel
  • Available wireless smartphone charging

The Volt retains its signature dual digital color displays, with larger, eight-inch-diagonal screens – one in front of the driver for the instrument cluster and driver information center, and the other in the center of the instrument panel that controls the Chevrolet MyLink system and other apps.

The center stack is simple and intuitive, projecting approximately one-third fewer icons, and offering separate climate control knobs. Buttons below the center display offer a clear and convenient operation. Most of the features can be controlled with a single rotary knob and four buttons.

Returning technologies and new amenities include:

  • OnStar 4G LTE with three years of service and standard built-in Wi-Fi hotspot (with a three-month/three gigabyte data trial)
  • Siri Eyes Free and text message alerts (requires compatible iPhone)
  • Bluetooth phone connectivity
  • Automatic climate control
  • Keyless access and ignition
  • Auxiliary 12-volt power outlets and dual USB ports
  • Remote start
  • Leather-wrapped steering wheel
  • Premium cloth seats and available leather-appointed seating
  • Available Navigation and Bose® premium audio
  • Heated driver and front passenger cloth seats
  • Available safety awareness includes front and rear park assist, forward collision alert and lane-departure warning

Seating and trim
A new bench seat design in the rear provides seating for up to three passengers. When the middle seat is not in use, the outboard rear-seat passengers can fold down an armrest.

The standard cloth seats feature a distinctive hexagonal pattern that blends a high-tech appearance with natural biometrics, similar to the pattern at the center of a sunflower. Lighter, natural color tones complement the seats and reinforce the cabin’s warmth.

The available leather-appointed seating features a Volt-exclusive, warm brandy color with jet black accents.

The upscale look and feel of the Volt is reinforced with three interior color choices: jet black, light and dark ash gray and jet black and brandy.

About Chevrolet
Founded in 1911 in Detroit, Chevrolet is now one of the world’s largest car brands, doing business in more than 140 countries and selling more than 4.8 million cars and trucks a year. Chevrolet provides customers with fuel-efficient vehicles that feature engaging performance, design that makes the heart beat, passive & active safety features and easy-to-use technology, all at a value. More information on Chevrolet models can be found at www.chevrolet.com.

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2015 Silverado Offers Custom Sport Package

Posted on January 22, 2015 by PattiSue

With the new

Inspired by Chevy Custom Sport Trucks that helped launch personal-use pickups

Inspired by Chevy Custom Sport Trucks that helped launch personal-use pickups

2015 Silverado Custom Sport special edition, Chevrolet pays homage to one of its most iconic pickups, adding a sophisticated monochromatic look to double- and crew-cab Silverados.

 

The Custom Sport package features body-colored front and rear bumpers and a body-colored grille surround with a chrome-accented black grille. Other accents include 20-inch chrome wheels, chrome door handles and mirror caps, and chrome body-side moldings. The package also includes projector beam headlamps, tow hooks and heated power-adjusted mirrors.

“The Custom Sport special edition was inspired by Chevy Custom Sport Trucks of the late 1960s,” said Sandor Piszar, Chevrolet Trucks marketing director. “Those CST models added a touch of elegance to a great all-around truck, just like the Custom Sport package for the new Silverado.”

The redesigned 1967 Chevrolet pickup entered the market at a time when trucks were starting to move off the jobsites and into the driveways of cities and suburbs. The 1967 Custom Sport Truck, with its bright trim, plush carpet and bucket seats, helped launch a wave of personal use pickups that continues today.

For the 2015 Silverado, the Custom Sport package will be available as LT and LTZ models, including Z71s. LT models will be available in black or white, while LTZs will come in black or White Diamond Tricoat.

Package prices will vary from $1,950 to $2,950, depending on the model. Dealers can place orders starting this month.
Founded in 1911 in Detroit, Chevrolet is now one of the world’s largest car brands, doing business in more than 140 countries and selling more than 4.8 million cars and trucks a year. Chevrolet provides customers with fuel-efficient vehicles that feature engaging performance, design that makes the heart beat, passive & active safety features and easy-to-use technology, all at a value. More information on Chevrolet models can be found at www.chevrolet.com.

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Congrats to the Chevy Colorado, 2015 Motor Trend Truck of the Year

Posted on January 19, 2015 by PattiSue

2015 Chevrolet Colorado

The download on downsizing and creating a great midsize pickup.

It’s rare for any vehicle to get unanimous approval from Motor Trend editors. But the Chevrolet Colorado did just that winning the 2015 Motor Trend Truck of the Year in a landslide.

For me, it wasn’t the nicely loaded Colorado Crew Cab Z71 that convinced me to vote for the Colorado. That’s a great pickup, riding high on those bouncy Goodyear Wrangler All-Terrain tires with a promise of off-road hoopties. It was the least assuming truck out of the 10 vehicles we drove, tested, loaded and unloaded for nearly a week in Arizona. A very basic, extended cab Chevy work truck with a price tag of $23,300.

First, that’s something you rarely hear anymore: A pickup costing less than an addition to your house. This little truck is downright affordable. But it never felt cheap. Many editors noted the interior comfort, the quiet ride and how it seemed the right size for the right price at the right time.

In the Motor Trend story, I note the Texasification of pickups. It’s been an ongoing issue as fullsize pickups continue to grow larger– often out performing heavy-duty pickups from two decades ago. They are truly testaments to engineering capability. (Full disclosure, at one point, we drove the Colorado next to a ‘90s Chevy S-10 and were blown away at how big the Colorado looked.)

But the world is not just one giant construction site or open country where someone needs to wrap chains around a rock and pull it somewhere. There are city streets to traverse, suburban neighborhoods to cruise down, Home Depot parking lots to squeeze into and fullsize pickups can be challenging in tight spaces. Fitting one in your garage can be a hassle if not a physical impossibility. Every time I got out of a fullsize truck and jumped into the Colorado, it was much easier to drive. In fact, it is downright fun with sharp steering feel, nice acceleration and a nimbleness that big rigs inherently don’t possess.

Of course, Truck of the Year testing is not a direct head-to-head comparison. The Colorado did not beat the Ford F-150 or the GMC HD 2500 in a showdown. In fact, if you’re looking to buy a fullsize pickup, the choices are nearly limitless with fantastic pickups from Ram, Ford and GM. But the Colorado did outperform everyone against the testing regiment Motor Trend has in place.

The week of testing includes both instrumented testing and real world driving. There is a day spent on a closed course and another day driving 21-mile loops through the Hualapai Mountains in Arizona. We log hundreds of miles on all of the vehicles during testing. We analyze the numbers and add to it our impressions of all of the trucks. And after we’re done putting every truck through its paces, we have “Real MPG” connect its machines to every vehicle to analyze tailpipe emissions every second during an 88-mile drive loop in Los Angeles to determine a vehicle’s fuel economy. (All of those numbers are available at MotorTrend.com.) No one else is that thorough. No one.

Ultimately, this year, the Colorado was the most impressive to judges – all fulltime editors at Motor Trend – against a rigid set of criteria including: Design Advancement; Engineering Excellence; Efficiency; Safety; Value; and Performance of Intended Use.

Really, the Colorado is a big test for Chevrolet and consumers.

The midsize pickup segment has been shrinking for decades. American pickup makers, Ford, GM and Ram have all said in the past that little trucks never made sense because their price point is too low, they steal business from the more profitable fullsize trucks and why would a person buy a midsize truck when they could get a fullsize truck for the same price.

My answer has always been: Because some people want a smaller truck. And make no mistake, the Colorado is the best midsize pickup in its class. (It should be because the Nissan Frontier and Toyota Tacoma are old.)

Furthermore, the Colorado doesn’t pretend to be a midsize Silverado. It doesn’t tow as much, carry as much or weigh as much. It’s not supposed to. True pickup guys may grumble, but this pickup wasn’t made for them.

Designers took a lot of care to make sure they weren’t creating a baby Silverado. Instead, they designed an aggressive looking pickup and gave it all of those cool Silverado features such as the bumper step, cargo management system and plush interior.

A smaller pickup means it will have a lot more versatility than its bigger counterparts. This is truly a lifestyle vehicle that could handle daily commutes without emptying the tank; weekend camping trips and the occasional run to the hardware store. You may not want to build a new house with this truck, but you can certainly fix the one you live in with it.

Sure, a bigger rig can do many of those things, but downsizing one’s life can certainly include the vehicle you choose to keep in your driveway. Particularly this one, as it takes up a little less space, uses a little less gas and leaves a few more dollars in your wallet than its bigger counterparts.

So congratulations to the Chevrolet Colorado for winning Motor Trend’s Truck of the Year honors for 2015. To the engineers, designers, factory workers and executives who brought new life to a midsize pickup, it’s a well-deserved award for your tireless dedication and work.

Every judge agrees, and that doesn’t happen often.

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How Automated Tech Can Seamlessly Improve Your Drive

Posted on January 11, 2015 by PattiSue

2015 Chevy Colorado interiorSmart accessories – i.e., smart watches, networked thermostats, home automation – are growing increasingly popular with consumers, and it’s easy to see why. Devices like these not only provide unparalleled levels of control, but also adapt to users’ preferences, behaviors and schedules. Although it might be hard to think of a car in the same light, the automobile may very well be the ultimate smart accessory. In fact, there’s plenty of technology within the Chevrolet lineup that proactively works to make your drive a little easier.

-Automatic Headlamps: Ever forget to switch your headlamps on during the early hours of dusk? You’re less likely to do so in a Chevy. From the Spark to the Silverado HD, the majority of new Chevrolets feature automatic headlamp controls as standard equipment, allowing a photovoltaic cell in the dashboard to sense the level of ambient light outside, and automatically switch on exterior lights.

-Memory Keys: Tired of adjusting your seat position mirrors every time you get behind the wheel? You might have noticed many Chevrolet models offer the ability to program these settings into memory, but you might not have noticed how seamless the system truly is. After programming these memory settings into one of two memory banks, simply grab a correspondingly-numbered keyless remote fob, and click the unlock button. Voila – the car adjusts to your settings, meaning you’re ready to roll as soon as you grab the door handle. You can find this feature in everything from the Volt to the Traverse.

-Magnetic Ride: Have you ever wished your suspension could adjust to the conditions of the road surface? Chevrolet models equipped with Magnetic Ride Control can do just that. Sensors analyze the road every millisecond, and can adjust the firmness of the dampers in as little as five milliseconds.

-Adaptive Cruise: Cruise control is great for long journeys, but in dense traffic, drivers may find themselves needing to frequently adjust speed or brake. The 2015 Impala, Tahoe and Suburban can shoulder some of that burden thanks to an available adaptive cruise control system. A forward-looking radar can detect vehicles ahead and allow the vehicle to accelerate or brake in order to maintain a driver-selected “gap.” Although drivers still need to pay careful attention to road conditions and override the system when necessary, studies have indicated adaptive cruise control can safely reduce brake applications on the freeway by 25 times.

-Automatic Parking Assist: Do you repeatedly circle the block in order to avoid parallel parking? Unsure if you can back into a narrow perpendicular spot? The 2015 Chevrolet SS’ new AutoPark system takes the uncertainty out of both maneuvers. A series of ultrasonic sensors embedded in the front and rear bumper fascia begin looking for a suitable space after the driver presses a Parking Assist button. Once the system finds a suitable spot, the driver only needs to control brake, throttle and transmission while the car effortlessly steers itself.

-Tire Telepathy: The Corvette Stingray and Corvette Z06 keep close tabs on their tires. As tire temperature can alter grip and affect traction and handling, both Corvettes actively check the tire temps and adjust traction control, ABS and other settings to maximize performance.

The Corvette isn’t the only Chevy that watches over its tires – in fact, every new 2015 Chevrolet keeps watch over tire pressures, and notifies the driver in case air pressure drops to a dangerous level. On vehicles equipped with OnStar, owners can go a step further via the RemoteLink smartphone app and keep tabs on tire pressures at all times.

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