AutoNews reported that this new program was announced in a memo to dealers last week. According to the memo, Chevrolet vice president Brian Sweeney and GMC vice president Duncan Aldred write, "Through research, we have determined that when purchasing a new vehicle, included maintenance and warranty rank low on the list of reasons why consumers consider a particular brand over another." Some brands and models will still have special warranties such as the Volt's hybrid warranty.
In the most recent J.D. Power and Associates Dependability Study, GM moved up to above average in the industry. Buick was second behind Lexus in the study (though Lexus is way ahead), and Cadillac is now fourth behind Toyota as a brand. In the various vehicle segments, GM matched Toyota's seven segment wins.
This move means that Hyundai/Kia's 10-year/100,000 drivetrain warranty is again a standout in the industry.