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The GMC Graphyte is a refined SUV with all the capability expected in a four-wheel drive SUV, but with 25% improved fuel economy enabled by GM's latest two-model full hybrid propulsion system.
"The promise of the Graphyte's hybrid technology is guilt-free performance," said Terry Johnsson, Managing Director, GM Middle East. "It provides a real and dramatic improvement in fuel economy - 25%, without compromising the reasons customers want to use their SUV."
The midsize Graphyte uses a two-mode full hybrid system mated with a Vortec 5300 V-8 engine with Displacement on Demand (DoD) technology, to deliver strong, continuous power in all driving conditions.
The two-mode full hybrid system is based on the multi-patented diesel-electric technology first used by GM in buses. With a combination of full electric propulsion and gasoline engine power, the first mode provides fuel-saving capability for low-speed, stop-and-go driving - the kind of driving typical of urban commuting.
The second mode optimizes fuel economy at higher speeds, while providing full engine power when conditions demand it, such as trailer towing or climbing steep grades. It works synergistically with other technologies such as Displacement on Demand to reduce fuel consumption at highway speeds.
"GM feels it is best to employ hybrid technology first on large vehicles, such as buses and SUVs, because they generally are the largest consumers of fuel," said Johnsson.
"With the Graphyte, we've demonstrated its integration into a type of vehicle where its fuel-saving technology will do the most good, while maintaining all the utility for which GMC SUVs are known."
The Graphyte has the built-in strength of an SUV, including a full ladder-type perimeter frame, with a strut-type front suspension and a five-link rear suspension. The driver can adjust the suspension ride height by up to 120 mm, with the lowest height providing improved aerodynamics and enhanced fuel economy, and the raised height providing extra ground clearance for off-road driving.
The Graphyte takes GMC's design language to new levels of elegance. Despite its aerodynamic appearance, the vehicle incorporates strong SUV cues such as minimal overhangs, tight wheel-to-fender openings, and an upright grille.
Aerodynamics also plays an important role in the vehicle's design, as a slippery shape enhances fuel economy. The Graphyte's fast, 40-degree windshield, swept headlamps and tapered roofline convey a wind-driven look, while the underbody cover reduces drag.
Details such as jeweled Xenon headlamps (which rotate left, right and vertically to follow the attitude of the vehicle) and LED tail lamps complement the new, metal-frame grille design and convey a sense of solidity. The Graphyte's gray exterior color was carefully selected to convey both professionalism and urban chic. Another clever exterior detail is the cargo area hatch/tailgate system. The tailgate operates independently of the upper hatch for ease of loading.
From its commanding driving position, the Graphyte's interior has a crafted, airy environment that is enhanced by the large skylights. Mokanto wood veneer and anodized and polished aluminum trim accent the Spiral Grey leather upper section of the interior. The wood veneer and aluminum theme extends to the front seatbacks, which are mounted on pedestals rather than conventional tracks to provide more legroom. The lower section of the instrument panel, lower door panels and seats are covered in Prairie Sandalwood-color leather.
The rear seats have a unique 1-2-3 folding capability, which allows the seatbacks of each three seating positions to be folded flat independently. The rear seat cushion can also be adjusted to increase cargo space or to provide extra legroom for passengers.
The intuitive drive-by-wire controls for the hybrid drive system are located in the center console. Instead of moving a lever to select a gear, for example, the driver simply pushes a button to select drive, reverse or park. An LCD screen in the console shows how the hybrid system is working, while a two-bin instrument panel in front of the driver provides conventional analog readouts. The console screen also provides access to the vehicle's satellite navigation system and other infotainment options. A second screen folds down from an overhead console for the convenience of rear seat passengers.
Posted by Anne-Birte Stensgaard, Senior News Editor
