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TOWING

Highlights of the 2020 Ford Edge

March 10, 2020 by admin 1 Comment

The Ford Edge ST has a specially-tuned turbocharged V6 engine.

The Ford Edge is a midsize, two-row utility vehicle, one of the earliest models in what was once a segment dominated by three-row models. The 2020 Edge is part of the second-generation line introduced for the 2015 model year. This year, dual-zone climate control is now standard. Also, the audio system no longer includes a CD player.

The Edge sits between the compact Escape and the three-row Explorer in Ford’s utility vehicle lineup.

Highlights of the 2020 Edge

Mainstream to premium to performance. The Ford Edge comes in SE, SEL, Titanium, and ST trims. The base model aligns with what you’d expect in this segment, with soft-touch materials, brightwork trim, and cloth seats included. Move up the Titanium trim and Ford upgrades the appearance, by including real chrome, leather-trimmed seats, and upgraded technologies. The ST model is the performance leader and reflects that look with special ST embroidery and other demarcations.

Room for five with ample storage. Front or back, the Ford Edge offers generous passenger space with room for five. There is no penalty seat in the house, although the passenger sitting in the middle position on the rear bench seat might argue otherwise. In any case, there is enough room to stretch and move about. The Edge supplies 39.2 cubic feet of standard storage space and 73.4 cubic feet with the rear seat folded.

Two strong engine choices. Ford supplies the Edge with a standard 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 245 horsepower and 275 pound-feet of torque. Power routes to the front or to all four wheels by means of an 8-speed automatic transmission. Customers will also find a 2.7-liter turbocharged V6 engine, which is exclusive to the ST, an all-wheel-drive model. This one throws down 335 horsepower and 380 pound-feet of torque and works with an 8-speed transmission.

Infotainment done right. Ford knocked it out of the park with the Edge’s infotainment system. Every model comes with its highly useful SYNC 3 system which seems lightyears ahead of everything before it. This voice-controlled system is bundled with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone compatibility, Bluetooth, six speakers, two USB ports, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. Among the upgrades, you’ll find a 115-volt power outlet, wireless device charging, and 9- and 12-speaker audio packages.

Lots of safety tech. You’ll find active lane control, blind-spot monitoring, and automatic emergency braking on every 2020 Edge model. Among the additional features available (and offered separately) are 180-degree front camera system, adaptive cruise control, and the industry’s only inflatable rear safety belts.

Average towing, at best. If you’re looking to tow, a properly equipped Edge will pull 1,500 pounds with the base engine. That’s certainly not outstanding. Choose the V6 model and it can pull up to 3,500 pounds, which should suffice for many owners. But if you require more robust towing capabilities, you may want to turn to the three-row Explorer as this model pulls from 3,000 to 5,600 pounds, depending on how it is equipped.

Making the Grade

The Ford Edge holds its own, thanks to handsome styling, two strong engine choices, varying trim levels, and utility. Prices can move well above $40,000 when well equipped, which pushes it into luxury territory, but without the brand cache. Fortunately, Ford discounting is typically very generous, with strong savings available whether you pay cash, finance or lease.


2020 Ford Edge Specifications


Ford 2020 Edge
Segment Midsize SUV
Price Range $31,100 to $43,265
Destination Charge $1,095
Engine No. 1 2.0-liter, I4
Horsepower 250 @ 5,500 rpm
Torque (lb.-ft.) 275 @ 3,000 rpm
Transmission 8-speed automatic
Engine No. 2 2.7-liter, V6
Horsepower 335 @ 5,500 rpm
Torque (lb.-ft.) 380 @ 3,000 rpm
Transmission 8-speed automatic
Seating 5
Curb Weight (pounds) 3,958 to 4,525
Wheelbase (inches) 112.2
Length (inches) 188.8
Width (inches) 75.9
Height (inches) 68.3
Headroom (f,r…inches) 40.2, 40.3
Legroom (f,r…inches) 42.6, 40.6
Shoulder room (f,r…inches) 60.3, 60.5
Hip room (f,r…inches) 55.9, 57.5
Storage (cubic feet) 39.2, 73.4
Gross vehicle weight (pounds) NR
Towing (pounds) NR
Payload (pounds) NR
Fuel Regular
Fuel Tank (gallons) 18.4
EPA Fuel MPG (city/highway/combined) 21/29/24, 19/26/21
Manufacturing Plant Ontario, Canada

Data compiled by Tom Keegan. Specifications supplied by the manufacturer.


See Also — New Ford Edge Scores and Soars

Photo copyright the Ford Motor Company.

Filed Under: Specifications Tagged With: Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, crossover, Ford, FORD EDGE, SUV, TOWING, turbo, utility vehicle

Introducing the Fourth-Generation Toyota Highlander

December 18, 2019 by admin 2 Comments

The 2020 Toyota Highlander is handsome and elegant.

We, consumers, are enamored by crossover utility vehicles, which have largely replaced sedans and minivans as the family vehicle of choice. Big on passenger space and cargo room, crossover SUVs have simply won us over.

In the midsize sector, there are some two dozen models to consider, with three-seat models outnumbering two-seat versions by a 2-to-1 margin. Toyota is well represented in the sector by the Highlander, a three-row crossover that rolled out in 2001. In fact, the Highlander effectively overhauled the segment, which was dominated at the time by a few truck-based models, including the Ford Explorer and Dodge Durango. Utilizing a car-based platform has worked wonders for Toyota and others as it affords owners with more interior room, better handling, and optimum fuel economy.

With the Highlander, Toyota has vigorously carved out a significant slice in the segment and remains one of the best-selling models and for good reason. The Highlander represents attractive styling, efficient powertrains, and generous advanced technologies.

This month, a fully redesigned 2020 Highlander debuts, followed by a Highlander Hybrid in February. Toyota invited this writer to San Antonio to test-drive various Highlander versions, covering my airfare, the hotel stays, and food, for this event. My comments are based on an initial preview; hence these are first impressions only. That said, there was enough time allowed to gain an appreciation for what consumers will soon experience first-hand.

Generation Four: 2020 Toyota Highlander

First things first: the 2020 Highlander is available in L, LE, XLE, Limited, and Platinum trims. The Highlander Hybrid has four trims, beginning with the LE. Pricing starts at $34,600 for the base L front-wheel-drive model and reaches $48,000 for the Platinum all-wheel drive. The hybrid model now includes front-wheel drive; each corresponding trim costs $1,400 more than its gas version. Prices do not include the mandatory $1,120 freight charge, nor are taxes, tags, and related closing expenses added until later.

The latest Highlander is slightly larger than the outgoing model, with an additional two inches between the wheels. All that extra space is for cargo room, which enables the Highlander to compete more effectively in the segment. The new model is also built on Toyota’s global architecture, which means it shares its underpinnings with the Camry and Avalon sedans as well as smaller crossovers, including the RAV4 and C-HR. It’s a cost-saving move that allows Toyota to share many of the expenses in vehicle development across its model line.



Toyota Highlander Powertrains

As before, Toyota offers a 3.5-liter V6 gas engine that develops 295 horsepower and 263 pound-feet of torque. This engine works with an 8-speed automatic transmission and features automatic stop/start technology. Choose this powertrain and you’ll enjoy a 5,000-pound towing capacity, which is just ahead of the GMC Acadia (4,000 pounds), but behind the Nissan Pathfinder (6,000 pounds).

Since 2006, Toyota has offered a hybrid variant of the Highlander, the only model in the segment with gas-electric technology. Although that’s changing as Ford, Dodge, and others enter with their own choices, the Highlander Hybrid has once again upped its game.

Where the gas engine is unchanged with the 2020 Highlander, the hybrid powertrain is stronger and more efficient than before. The current version bangs out a combined 243 horsepower with its 2.5-liter gas engine and electric motors, which is 82 percent of the performance of the V6 engine. Power travels to the front or all four wheels by means of a continuously variable automatic transmission with a pair of electric motors also at work.

Where V6 fuel economy improves by 1 mpg since 2019, the Highlander Hybrid boasts a 24-percent increase in efficiency. Indeed, the EPA rating is a combined 36 mpg, which is outstanding. In our various test drives we averaged as high as 33.9 mpg, which is about 5 mpg more than what the previous model offered. Keep this model’s efficiency in mind when considering the Highlander. Oh, before we move on, the hybrid has a 3,500-pound towing capacity, which matches the V6-powered Honda Pilot.

Updated Design

One look at the new Highlander and the design changes are easily to identify. Up front you’ll find a black gaping grille, surrounded by chrome on the Limited and Platinum trims. The two top trims add chrome embellishments on the lower fascia too.

Other noticeable changes include relocated side mirrors and a more robust, even truck-like hood line. Sculpted panels, pronounced body lines, and new wheel designs are apparent. From the rear, all models now include standard LED lights. Toyota says the liftgate is lighter and opens and closes faster.



Space for Seven or Eight

Inside, Toyota supplies seating for seven or eight, depending on the trim. In models equipped with eight seats (L and LE), the second row is a bench seat, which is instead of the captain’s chairs in the other three trims. Both seats move forward and fold flat, enabling improved ease of access/egress to/from the third row. Yet, the third-row space is still quite small.

The Volkswagen Atlas supplies the best-in-class legroom and can hold full-size adults in comfort.

As for the rest of interior, the space is otherwise open, with clean lines, soft-touch materials, and ambient lighting present. Plastic is utilized too, mostly below eye level and in out-of-the-way places.

The dashboard is a conversation starter with its large chrome-like surround with a thick bar jutting out from the right side of the panel and splitting the upper and lower sections. For better or for worse, it draws a lot of attention to the center console, which has a standard 8-inch screen. On the top-trim Platinum, you’ll find a 12.3-inch screen, the largest in the segment. The only thing we’d like for Toyota to work on is removing glare – there are times when the screen is difficult to read. As for fingerprint buildup, expect to wipe down the screen as you do your smartphone or tablet. You do wipe these screens, right?

The front seats are supportive, although an inch or two of additional thigh support would be welcome. On some trims the driver seat adjusts up and down and supplies lumbar support, but not so with the passenger seat. That’s a deficiency we don’t expect in a crossover costing $40,000 or more.

We give Toyota credit with supplying ample storage compartments in the doors, the center console, and in the rear compartment. Oddly, Toyota sticks the Qi-compatible charger in the armrest/storage compartment, where it is difficult to reach (or remember when taking a long drive). Making space at the bottom of the stack seems like a much more sensible approach.

Tech & Safety

We’ve already touched on some of the tech features, especially as it relates to interior design. But there is much more to report, including now standard Apple Car Play, Android Auto, and Alexa In-Car compatibility. Toyota also includes Waze, SiriusXM, and Wi-Fi connectivity.

Where a six-speaker audio system is standard; Toyota once again turns to JBL to supply an enhanced audio experience with an 11-speaker arrangement. That system represents 1,100 watts of power coursing through the cabin. If you want navigation, it appears with the Limited trim, although your smartphone app should be enough.



One area where Toyota excels is in safety technology. The automaker’s Toyota Safety Sense (TSS 2.0) package pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, full-speed range adaptive cruise control, lane departure alert with steering assist, automatic high beams, lane tracing assist, and road sign assist.

You’ll also find blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert standard on the LE trim and above. Rear cross traffic braking is available with clearance sonar on the Limited and above. All in all, Toyota battles well in tech features and excels in all things safety.

Initial Impressions

So, which powertrain should you choose? The hybrid is a stronger contender than before, thanks to its improved performance and efficiency. That said, we quickly discovered that the added weight of the hybrid powertrain and available all-wheel drive mean that it isn’t as nimble as it could be.

Step-off acceleration and passing power in the gas model is robust, with a willing transmission finding the right cog for the occasion. The steering is adequately weighted, and this SUV’s handling is what you’d expect: it simply gets the job done. When driving the hybrid, you can feel the system straining under hard acceleration, which is no surprise for a vehicle designed to maximize efficiency. We think, however, that under full load, the hybrid will have to work extra hard to keep up. That’s a by-product of using a four-cylinder engine and electric motors to power this vehicle – its optimized for efficiency, not performance.

In all, we were impressed with the Highlander’s smooth ride and relatively quiet interior. In some ways, though, the Kia Telluride and Hyundai Palisade are more comfortable, although we give the Toyota’s engine the edge in this department. We’ll be better positioned to gauge these differences once we have a production-ready Highlander to test for a week.

Getting It Done

The all-new Highlander should gladden the hearts of Toyota faithful and win a few converts along the way, including anyone interested in a hybrid. As for a potential plug-in hybrid to take on the Ford Explorer, Toyota is mum there.

As for the competition, consumers have more choices than before and they’ll look hard at the offerings. Toyota delivers the quality, efficiency and reputation you’d expect, but falls behind in third-row seating which could cost it some sales. For most shoppers, however, the third row is for children and if that’s the case for you, then the Highlander should meet or even exceed your expectations.


2020 Toyota Highlander Specifications


Toyota 2020 Highlander
Segment Midsize Three-Row SUV
Price Range $34,600 to $48,000
Destination Charge $1,120
Engine No. 1 3.5-liter, V6
Horsepower 295 @ 6,600 rpm
Torque (lb.-ft.) 263 @ 4,700 rpm
Transmission 8-speed automatic
Engine No. 2 2.5-liter, I4
Horsepower 186 @ 6,000 rpm
Torque (lb.-ft.) 175 @ 4,400 rpm
Transmission CVT
Seating 7 to 8
Curb Weight (pounds) 4,145 to 4,595
Wheelbase (inches) 112.2
Length (inches) 194.9
Width (inches) 76.0
Height (inches) 68.1
Headroom (f,r…inches) 39.9, 39.4, 36.1
Legroom (f,r…inches) 40.4, 41.0, 27.7
Shoulder room (f,r…inches) 59.0, 58.7, 55.0
Hip room (f,r…inches) 57.2, 57.0, 45.6
Storage (cubic feet) 16.0, 48.4, 84.3
Gross vehicle weight (pounds) 5,830 to 6,000
Towing (pounds) 3,500 (hybrid); 5,000 (gas)
Payload (pounds) 1,405 to 1,685
Fuel regular
Fuel Tank (gallons) 17.1 (hybrid), 17.9 (gas)
EPA Fuel MPG (city/highway/combined) 21/29/24 (gas); 36/35/36 (hybrid)
Manufacturing Plant Princeton, Indiana

Data compiled by Tom Keegan. Specifications supplied by the manufacturer.


See Also — Electrify This: Toyota Opens Vehicle Patents to Advance Global Electrification

Exterior photos copyright Auto Trends Magazine; Interior photos courtesy of Toyota Motors.

Filed Under: New Models Tagged With: all-wheel drive, crosssover, front-wheel drive, SUV, TOWING, Toyota, TOYOTA HIGHLANDER, Toyota Highlander Hybrid

Truck Payload and Towing:
What’s the Difference?

July 30, 2019 by admin 3 Comments

Shop for a pickup truck and you’ll find a bunch of numbers associated with that vehicle. And we’re not just talking about sticker price, packages, and options. Indeed, the numbers that count most for some include payload and towing. The first one may be more of a mystery than the second, but both feature certain characteristics that make these figures interesting.


2017 Nissan Titan XD vehicle
This 2017 Nissan Titan XD is designed to pull up to 12,000 pounds.

Truck Payload, Towing, and More

Truck payload

A truck’s payload is measured by a few things, including the weight of the passengers and the gear inside the vehicle as well as the weight of everything in the truck bed. In some cases, manufacturers add the weight of the fluids (e.g., motor oil, transmission fluid, coolant) to determine the safest carrying weight possible. You should know that the payload is an important factor in truck sales.

So, if you have a five-passenger pickup and the published payload limit is 1,250 pounds, then the weight of the passengers combined with the gear inside the cabin and the truck bed should not exceed that number. Any amount above that limit could adversely affect steering, handling, and the suspension system. Therefore, it is both a safety and structural issue.

Towing capacity

Pickup trucks typically tout their tow ratings, front and center. Moreover, like payload, a truck’s towing capability is an important factor for consumers.

Manufacturers routinely supply towing limits based on several factors, including the vehicle’s drivetrain (i.e., two- or four-wheel drive), engine size and type (i.e., gasoline or diesel), cab size, axle ratio, cargo box volume, and standard v. hitch towing. Certainly, the numbers can vary greatly from model to model, but even within the same model range, you’ll find some enormous differences.


A dual rear axle pickup truck offers robust towing capabilities.

For instance, peruse any pickup truck towing guide from a manufacturer and you’ll find a detailed chart outlining a model’s conventional towing capability. Typically, conventional towing covers truck’s with a trailer hitch receiver, one that is usually installed at the factory.

With full-size pickup trucks, you may find a second set of numbers under 5th-Wheel or Gooseneck Hitch. A gooseneck hitch (welded or mounted on a rail in the truck bed) is for recreational uses, while a 5th-wheel hitch is for industrial purposes. As for the 5th-wheel hitch, it connects to a hitch by means of a king pin along with a plate that sits on top of the fifth-wheel hitch plate. The towing numbers for both are similar, although not always the same. In any case, consult the manufacturer’s towing chart to determine the correct capacity.

GVWR

While payload and towing numbers are fairly straightforward, you may run across another term, GVWR that seems strange. GVWR stands for “gross vehicle weight rating” and is the maximum value for what your vehicle can safely weigh, including payload. For instance, if your truck weighs 4,500 pounds and has a payload of 2,000 pounds, then its GVWR is 6,500 pounds. Keep in mind that GVWR has nothing to do with what a truck can tow.

What You Should Know

Before you consider towing, there are a few matters you should know.

1. Opt for a separate braking system. Some manufacturers recommend consumers opt for a separate braking system, especially if they’re pulling a certain weight, such as 1,500 pounds or more per the Ford Motor Company. This could be electronically controlled brakes, electric-over-hydraulic (EOH) trailer brakes, or surge brakes.

2. Tow only after your truck’s break-in period is over. Don’t buy a truck with the idea of towing immediately. Like any vehicle, your pickup truck has a break-in period, usually covering the first 1,000 miles.


The Chevrolet Silverado offers outstanding payload and towing limits.

3. Weigh your truck. When you’re ready to tow, weigh it. This means you’ll want to head to the nearest scale with your truck, trailer, passengers, and everything in it. For a nominal fee ($10.50 for the first weigh, $2.00 for the second weigh on a CAT Scale as of this writing), you can find out if you’re within the weight tolerances.

4. Consider your other equipment. Besides a separate braking system, you need to ensure the trailer has a set of authorized lights not connected to the truck’s standard lighting system. The correct trailer wiring harness and safety chains are also essential. Finally, verify that all tires have sufficient air, at least one conventional spare matching the other tires is present, and the weight is evenly distributed.

Pickup Truck Chatter

So, there you have it. A primer about payload and towing differences with GVWR and tow tips are thrown in. We’ll take a deeper dive about all things towing in a future article. Meanwhile, be safe out there and practice towing before you hit the road.


See Also — Ram Chassis Cab is Here and Brings With it Class-Leading Numbers

Photos copyright Auto Trends Magazine. All rights reserved.

Filed Under: Special Tagged With: 5th-wheel towing, gooseneck towing, GVWR, PAYLOAD, PICKUP TRUCK, scale, TOWING, trailering

2019 Chevrolet Silverado & a Turbo Four

April 29, 2019 by admin

2019 Chevrolet Silverado LT
The Chevrolet Silverado is all new for 2019 as is the engine powering this example.

Chevrolet surprised us this year with a new engine for the Silverado and, no, it isn’t the 3.0-liter inline-six turbo-diesel we’ve long expected. Yes, that compression-ignition engine is on its way, but it isn’t due until this summer.

What Chevrolet rolled out with the all-new 2019 Silverado is a turbocharged gas engine displacing 2.7 liters. It sounds like a small-block V6, right? Well, it isn’t. Instead, what parent GM developed for Chevy and GMC was a large-block inline-four. This engine is now an integral part of the Silverado’s current five-strong engine family (including two versions of its venerable 5.3-liter V8).

One, two, three, and four…who could ask for anything more? Well, call me skeptical because I couldn’t imagine anything less than six cylinders powering a full-size pickup truck. Even then, a V6 is usually reserved either for a work truck unless it is imbued with turbochargers to behave like a V8.

With four cylinders and a turbocharger, you have an engine that acts similar to a small V6. Or at least that’s the thinking of some.

2019 Chevrolet Silverado: Turbo Four

GM supplied a 2019 Chevrolet Silverado LT four-wheel-drive double cab for my review. At first, I didn’t know what was under the hood as I was eager to jump in and go to one of my favorite destinations to take photos. But soon, I heard an unusual whine coming from underneath the hood and quickly realized that the new gas engine was motivating the big truck.

And that fact led me to make it my Friday driver to the beach, a day trip my wife and I had planned. With an opportunity to put about 300 miles on the odometer and mostly highway miles at that, that trip would supply me with ample opportunity to gauge the engine’s effectiveness.

Instead of my customary review of the Silverado (which you can read here), my thoughts here cover the new engine and its paired transmission.


Chevrolet Silverado turbocharged 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine.
GM’s newest engine is this turbo-powered inline-four, designed exclusively for trucks.
[Photo copyright GM Corp.]

Highlights of the Chevrolet Silverado’s Turbo Four

The following are some of the main features of the turbo four:

1. It represents a clean-sheet design.

GM’s new engine is a fresh design. It doesn’t represent a cut down from an inline-six nor is it based on an existing four-cylinder architecture. GM says the engine was built specifically for trucks, particularly with the Chevy Silverado and GMC Sierra in mind.

Might we eventually see this engine in the Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon midsize trucks? I suppose that’s something under consideration. I could also see this engine as an integral part of GM’s hybrid strategy, but we’re not there yet.

2. There is lots of power at the ready.

The new engine produces 310 horsepower and 348 foot-pounds of torque. Compare these numbers with the V6 (285 hp & 305 torque), the 5.3L V8 (355 hp & 383 torque), and the 6.2L V8 (420 hp & 460 torque), and its power quotient is firmly in second place. Importantly, you’re not seeing a big leap in power to the small block V8.

The turbo engine has a long piston stroke of 4.01 inches, which improves combustion and delivers a higher compression ratio. A longer stroke usually causes friction, but GM added an offset crankshaft to alleviate the problem. To handle the enormous pressure created by a turbo, the crankshaft and connecting rods are made of forged steel and the pistons are comprised of a durable aluminum alloy with a cast iron ring groove insert. The engine features an aluminum block and cylinder head. In other words, you have a modern designed engine.

3. It comes paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission.

GM uses a variety of automatic transmissions, including six, nine, and 10 forward gears. With the turbo four, you’ll find an 8-speed automatic. Chevrolet utilizes active fuel management technology with the turbo as two of the cylinders shut down under light loads. So, just think of this: at certain times this big Chevy is motivated by just two cylinders!

This powertrain combination delivers an EPA-estimated 20 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway for a combined 21 mpg. For four-wheel drive, each number falls by 1 mpg. On paper, the turbo is the most efficient gas engine in the Silverado, beating the small block V8 by 2 mpg and the V6 by 4 mpg.

4. It tows more than you might expect.

Big truck. Small engine. With this combination, you might not expect the turbo engine to have strong pulling power. You’d be partially correct in that assessment.

You can’t get the turbo with the regular cab, but you will find it available with both the double and crew cabs. The double cab with the standard box and two-wheel drive has the highest trailer weight rating: 7,000 pounds. Choose the standard box with four-wheel drive and it is rated at 6,700 pounds.

Crew cab short or standard box models come in at 6,900 (2WD) and 6,700 (4WD) pounds, respectively. These numbers are just a few hundred pounds lower than the V6 (7,300 to 7,900 pounds).


2019 Chevrolet Silverado LT

2019 Chevrolet Silverado LT


On the Road

Under steady driving, the turbo-powered Silverado is quiet. But the moment you engage the accelerator pedal the turbo spools up and the noise level increases with it.

No, the inline-four doesn’t produce a racket, but it does have a noticeable whine.

Press hard on the accelerator and every bit of this engine’s power quickly becomes evident as the dual-volute turbo quickly spools (it features a pair of separate chambers with two exhaust gas inlets and two nozzles to drive the turbine). The RPM gauge pushes very close to redline territory, falling short by just a few hundred RPMs.

As the engine does its thing, the automatic transmission willingly joins in. This transmission shifts cleanly and not once does it hunt for gears. its the kind of drama-free reaction we want and, happily, it fully complies.

My off-road antics were limited to a two-mile stretch of dirt road. I switched to four-wheel-drive to manage the front wheels as I navigated one stretch of road that dipped and curved. The Silverado held ground, delivering the extra measure of assurance (and confidence) I wanted. Had an opportunity to travel off the beaten path presented itself, I would have felt confident pursuing that too.


2019 Chevrolet Silverado LT


The Verdict Is In

The turbocharged four-cylinder engine delivers mixed results. On the one hand, its power quotient is undeniably strong. The fast-spooling turbo essentially eliminates lag, enabling this engine to reach full power quickly. It’s more powerful than the much larger V6 engine and that’s a credit to GM’s engineers.

On the other hand, the Silverado isn’t nearly as efficient as you’d expect. Even with copious amounts of highway driving with cruise control engaged, I averaged about 20 mpg or 19.1 mpg for the entire time I drove this truck. So, whatever efficiencies are touted, they just did not materialize.

I know some people are concerned about the reliability and durability of the turbocharger, based in part on past experience. For instance, in the 1980s, we saw a number of cars outfitted with turbos and these didn’t hold up under the stress. Fortunately, the technology has advanced tremendously since then as we’re seeing a wider application of modern boosted engines than ever before. Witness the success Ford has had with its twin-turbo engines powering the F-150 — there haven’t been any problems to speak of with these engines.

Another factor to consider is towing power. If your needs are relatively modest, then the boosted four should be up to the task. But keep in mind that if you regularly drive with a full payload (including passengers and bed gear) and tow, your fuel mileage will take a significant hit. That’s why the small-block 5.3-liter V8 engine remains a favorite among Silverado and Sierra fans, a proven engine with strong towing capabilities, one designed to get the job done.


2019 Chevrolet Silverado LT

2019 Chevrolet Silverado LT


 2019 Chevrolet Silverado Turbo Four Specifications


    • Silverado LT Double Cab 2WD, price from $38,495 (plus $1,595 destination charge)
    • Price as tested: $49,365
    • Seats five or six
    • Engine: 2.7-liter turbo I4 gas
    • 310 horsepower @ 5,600 RPM
    • 348 foot-pounds of torque @ 1,500 RPM
    • 8-speed automatic transmission
    • Wheelbase (inches): 147.4/5 (double); 147.4/5 or 157.0/1 (crew)
    • Length (inches): 231.8 (double); 231.7 or 241.2 (crew)
    • Width: 81.2 inches
    • Height: 75.6 to 78.5 inches
    • Passenger volume: NR
    • Storage volume: 5-foot, 8-inch or 6-foot, 6-inch or 8-foot box
    • Towing capacity: Up to 7,000 pounds
    • EPA: 20/23/21 mpg city/highway/combined
    • Fuel Type: Regular gasoline
    • Fuel tank: 24.0 gallons
    • Curb weight: 4,474 to 5,008 pounds
    • IIHS safety rating: N/A
    • Limited vehicle warranty: 3 years/36,000 miles
    • Powertrain warranty: 5 years/60,000 miles
    • Corrosion warranty: 6 years/100,000 miles
    • Vehicle assembly: Fort Wayne, Indiana and Silao, Guanajuato MEXICO

2019 Chevrolet Silverado LT


See Also — Happy Centennial: 2018 Chevrolet Silverado 1500

Photos copyright Auto Trends Magazine. All rights reserved.

Filed Under: New Car Reviews Tagged With: Chevrolet, Chevrolet Silverado, Chevy, four-wheel drive, GM, inline-four, PICKUP TRUCK, TOWING, turbo four

Ram Chassis Cab is Here and Brings With it Class-Leading Numbers

February 8, 2019 by admin

2019 Ram 5500 Chassis Cab Limited.
2019 Ram 5500 Chassis Cab Limited.

Ram pickup trucks are tearing up the market, thanks in part to an all-new model that’s “bringing it” to the segment. That model is none other than the Ram 1500, which is the brand’s standard full-size truck.

But the 1500 is also joined by a pair of heavy-duty models, the 2500 and 3500. These two vehicles help Ram claim the highest performance, payload and towing numbers in the business.

Ahead of the Chicago Auto Show this week, we began to hear rumblings of something new from Ram. One rumor was quickly confirmed — an available 60/40 split tailgate, giving Ram a viable option to GMC’s “trick” gate.

All-New Ram Chassis Cab

Fortunately, Ram isn’t stopping there. Fiat Chrysler’s truck brand announced that it is releasing all-new chassis cab models. These updated trucks (3500, 4500, and 5500) come with a Cummins 6.7-liter turbo-diesel six-cylinder engine with an output of 360 horsepower and 800 pound-feet of torque. Buyers can also select a 6.4-liter gasoline V8 engine. Both engines work with an 8-speed automatic transmission.

Yes, these diesel performance numbers are lower than what the standard Ram 3500 delivers, but that’s okay — the real proof of what the new chassis cab does is in another set of numbers.

And those numbers put Ram Commercial at the top of the segment as this pickup truck has a Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) of 43,000 pounds. Moreover, the new Ram supplies 35,200 pounds of towing and a payload capacity of 12,510 pounds. Thus, Ram can claim top numbers ahead of its competitors: Ford and Chevrolet/GMC.

2019 Ram Chassis Cab

Upfit and Outfit

At the press conference announcing the new models, a Ram spokesman noted the new trucks may be outfitted to serve in a variety of ways. As such, Ram displayed models that included a bucket truck, a crew cab with a horse trailer, and other work vehicles. The spokesman also suggested the chassis cab could be converted into an ambulance and that’s something we don’t usually see from Ram.

The new chassis cab is stronger and lighter than before thanks to the truck maker utilizing 97-percent high-strength steel frames. Thus, torsional rigidity is up, while weight is down — by approximately 120 pounds.

Tech and Style Highlights

Ram equips the chassis cab with UConnect 4C with a 12-inch display. The package includes the latest audio entertainment with SiriusXM with 360L. Other updates include a “reimagined” center console with a functional workspace featuring more than a dozen different storage layouts. It also has a wider docking area for optional wireless charging and has three USB ports (with two more in the rear).

A pair of available 115-volt three-prong plugs is designed to handle up to 400 watts for charging electronic devices or power tools. Moreover, folding up the rear bench seat reveals an additional contained storage space with under-seat compartments.

Four different grille styles accompany the 2019 Ram Chassis Cab, with not a crosshairs look to be found. The new bumper has larger openings, which supply greater airflow to the turbo intercooler. Ram also integrated proximity sensors to make them less obvious. You’ll find three headlamp variations, including an adaptive front lighting system. Finally, a new shark antenna handles radio, Wi-Fi, navigation and SiriusXM 360L.

Ram Commercial Truck

The Hit Parade

Ram continues to chalk up big gains and that’s a reflection of an automaker anticipating customer needs. Despite all the superlatives gushed at the news conference (e.g., massive, big, best-in-class, powerful) Ram appears to put up with those claims. That’s another salvo fired across the bow of both Ford and GM.


Photos copyright Fiat Chrysler Automobiles.

Filed Under: Auto Shows, New Models Tagged With: Chicago Auto Show, GVWR, PAYLOAD, PICKUP TRUCKS, RAM, Ram chassis cab, TOWING, turbo-diesel, V8 engine

Midnight Edition: 2018 Nissan Titan

May 21, 2018 by admin 5 Comments

On the road with the Titan of all trucks.

2018 Nissan Titan Crew Cab SL Midnight Edtion.
2018 Nissan Titan Crew Cab SL Midnight Edtion.

Pickup trucks are the meat of the auto industry, supplying the profits manufacturers need to shore up their operations. This fact is much more pertinent to the traditional US truck manufacturers — GM, Ford and Fiat Chrysler — than to competitors such as Nissan, Toyota and Honda.

Indeed, all three traditional Japanese companies have done well with cars and their respective luxury brands, but they also must supply pickup trucks to meet customer demand.

Nissan has two offerings in the mix: its midsize Frontier and full-size Titan/Titan XD. The latter pair fulfills most of the models customers want. Like Toyota, Nissan still leaves the heavy-duty market to the Big Three, with maximum tow ratings and dual axles among them.

2018 Nissan Titan

Nissan Titan: Then and Now

The Nissan Titan rolled out in 2004 and was the first full-size Japanese pickup truck capable of taking on the Chevrolet Silverado, Ford F-150, GMC Sierra and the Dodge Ram 1500.

Initially, demand was strong, although sales never approached Detroit levels. Nissan kept with this model for 12 long years, with sales bottoming out at 12,140 units in 2015 — less than one-seventh of the peak number attained in 2005.

Fortunately, two new models were in the planning stages, beginning with the 2016 Titan XD, a vehicle occupying the white space between light- and heavy-duty pickup trucks and the 2017 Titan, the official replacement for the first-generation model. Nissan did not offer a 2016 Titan.

2018 Nissan Titan

2018 Nissan Titan Overview and Updates

The 2018 Nissan Titan delivers a few changes, including an all-new King Cab, joining the previous Crew and Single Cab models. A few appearance packages are new too, including the Midnight Edition on my test Titan Crew Cab SL model.

Nissan offers the 2018 Titan with standard rear-wheel drive (4×2) and available four-wheel drive (4×4) configurations. The bed length availability varies by cab length. Nissan supplies one powertrain choice: a V8 engine paired with an automatic transmission.

As I have covered this model and the Titan XD extensively before — here, here and here — this time we will drill down and review some of the finer points about Nissan’s largest model. As you might imagine, there is a wealth of details of interest to pickup truck shoppers.

1. A Titan of Flavors

While the first-generation Nissan Titan offered extended (King) and Crew Cab configurations, it lacked a Single Cab option. It was not a big deal for most shoppers as only a small number opt for regular cab models anyway. Still, to be considered a serious player in this business, offering all three means Nissan has something for everyone.

The single cab offers a three-place bench seat, the King Cab has bucket seats up front and a three-place bench seat in the rear (although the rear seat can be deleted), while the Crew Cab matches the King Cab and delivers more cabin room to go with it.

Naturally, the Crew Cab is the roomiest of them all, delivering large knobs, big storage areas and lots of room to maneuver. If you are making the move from a competing brand, you will find the Titan matches up nicely with the best. It stops short of some of the excess offered (here is looking at you, F-150 Platinum), but you can get leather, heated seats and a heated steering wheel.

2018 Nissan Titan

(See Also — A Whole Lot of Awesome: Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 Bison)

2. Choose Your Trim

Most Nissan products offer upwards of four trims. With the Titan, you have five: S, SV, PRO-4X, SL and Platinum Reserve. On SV and SL models, you can layer the Midnight Edition trim, but only on Crew Cab Models.

The Midnight Edition is new this year, advancing a now common “blacked out” look found on special editions of most full-size pickup trucks. Here, you will find a body-color grille with dark insert, dark headlamps, black fog lamp finisher, black exterior badging, black mirrors and door handles, 20-inch black wheels, body color front and rear bumpers, black step rails and a dark charcoal interior trim. The ME supplies an aggressive look, although some may find it too overpowering for their tastes.

I generally avoid recommending the base model for any vehicle and that holds true for the 2018 Titan. The base model lacks the chrome exterior trim, available satellite radio and trailer sway control common to this segment. Therefore the SV is a good place to start, with the SL offering perhaps the best bang for the buck. That said, expect your sticker price to approach $50,000 for a Crew Cab four-wheel drive model. Discounts are available, so educate yourself about the current offers.

3. One Powerful Powertrain

2018 Nissan TitanChoose a full-size pickup truck and you will find a powerful engine paired with a capable transmission. Nissan keeps things simple by offering just one powertrain combination: a 5.6-liter V8 engine with 390 horsepower and 394 pound-feet of torque. A seven-speed automatic transmission routes power to the wheels.

This combination delivers the performance you need, moving the Titan a long at a steady clip. Of course, this model weighs nearly three tons, so the engine must be up to the task. We have been waiting for Nissan to sign off on a V6 engine for the Titan, but it has not happened yet. Likely, it will be most suitable for lighter duty applications, but we shall see.

Nissan makes it easy to dial in four-wheel drive, with the expected high and low ranges available. The one thing about taking the Titan off-road is that this truck is so darn big! It can handle light and moderate off-road work just fine, but if you intend to punish it, then opting for the PRO-4X version equipped with all-terrain tires, Bilstein shocks, and an electronic locking rear differential with the included active brake limited slip (ABLS, what senses wheelspin and brakes accordingly) is the best course of action.

4. Payload and Towing

2018 Nissan TitanPayload and towing are important numbers for any pickup truck. When it comes to the full-size Titan, the big numbers are where you expect to find them: with the Single Cab.

The Single Cab delivers a payload rating of 1,940 pounds (1,950 with 4WD) and towing of 9,740 pounds (9,470 with 4WD). King Cab payload numbers are 1,600/1,630 pounds and towing comes in at 9,400/9,240 pounds. With the Crew Cab, your numbers are 1,590/1,610 pounds for payload and 9,400/9,230 pounds for towing. Customers expect at least a 1,500-pound payload limit and trailering of at least 8,000 pounds with their big trucks. Happily, the 2018 Titan gets the job done.

As a side note, if you need payload pushing 3,000 pounds and towing of about six tons, the Titan XD is your better choice.

5. A Mixed Bag of Technologies

What is the Nissan Titan’s weakest link? Surely, all manufacturers have one. In this case, I found the infotainment interface disappointing. Ram and GM offer much better and easier to use systems; Ford has come along way with its SYNC interface. Toyota is perhaps the weakest of all, especially with its available Scout GPS directions app. That app is not dependable as our family has learned with our 2017 RAV4.

As for the model at hand, the screen is smaller than what we like and has a dated appearance. The standard screen measures five inches, while the available larger screen measures seven inches. You still cannot have Apple CarPlay or Android Auto smartphone compatibility and there is just one USB port at the ready. The standard six-speaker audio system is what you would expect to find in a pickup truck. The available 12-speaker Rockford Fosgate package turns things up nicely.

Bluetooth is standard and a 110-volt power outlet is an option. Navigation is another option. All models have a rearview monitor and you can get blind spot warning with rear cross-traffic alert.

2018 Nissan Titan
The optional Titan boxes are located on inside of the cab. Both boxes holds dozens of drinks and ice.
A drain on the bottom lets water out.

Parting Thoughts: 2018 Nissan Titan

So, where does the Nissan Titan stand in a highly competitive segment? In some areas, the Titan is in the thick of things with its powerful V8 engine. Its transmission, however, now trails some models, including Ford with its 10-speed automatic.

Moreover, if you want a different engine choice, you are out of luck. Toyota offers two V8 engine choices, while the US competitors have as many as five options for consumers, including a turbo-diesel. The Cummins diesel in the XD might work here, but it is geared toward power, not efficiency. Notably, Ford, GM and Ram each offer a 3.0-liter turbo-diesel V6 engine available with highway mileage approaching 30 mpg.

Although the Titan gets it done in most areas, it trails the top competitors. That fact might not matter much with Nissan faithful, but it makes it nearly impossible for Nissan to poach shoppers from the Big Three.

2018 Nissan Titan

2018 Nissan Titan Crew Cab Specifications

Nissan 2018 Titan Crew Cab
Segment Full-size pickup truck
Base Sticker Price $35,680 ( plus $1,295 destination charge)
Price as tested $51,610 (SL Midnight Edition 4×4)
Standard Engine 5.6-liter, V8
Horsepower 390 @ 5,800 RPMs
Torque (lb.-ft.) 394 @ 4,000 RPMs
Transmission Seven-speed automatic
Seating 5
Curb Weight (pounds) 5,911
Wheelbase (inches) 139.8
Length (inches) 228.1
Width (inches) 79.5
Height (inches) 76.0
Head room (f,r…inches) 41.0; 40.4
Leg room (f,r…inches) 41.8, 38.5
Shoulder room (f,r…inches) 63.3, 63.6
Hip room (f,r…inches) 60.8, 60.3
Storage (inches) 66
Gross vehicle weight (pounds) 7,300
Towing (pounds) 9,230
Payload (pounds) 1,610
Fuel Regular
Fuel Tank (gallons) 26
EPA Fuel MPG (city/highway) 15/21
Manufacturing Plant Canton, Mississippi

See Also — Bestseller: 2018 Nissan Rogue

2018 Nissan Titan photos copyright Auto Trends Magazine. All rights reserved.

Filed Under: New Car Reviews Tagged With: 2018 Titan, 2018 trucks, Chevrolet Silverado, CREW CAB, FORD F-150, four-wheel drive, GMC SIERRA, Midnight Edition, NISSAN, Nissan Titan, Nissan Titan XD, PAYLOAD, RAM 1500, TOWING, TOYOTA TUNDRA

Care Tips for Your New Vehicle

May 1, 2018 by admin 6 Comments

How to keep your vehicle running smoothly for years to come.

You have just driven off the dealer’s lot and are in possession of your first new car in some time, perhaps in many years. Likely, you will own this vehicle for the long haul, perhaps keeping it for a decade or longer.

Today’s cars typically do not have a formal break-in period that older models once had. That is due to cars being engineered differently as current technologies such as computer chips control everything from engine performance to emissions. Still, there are some things you can do to pamper your ride, protecting the average $36,270 investment that Kelley Blue Book says we are making as of January 2018.

Volkswagen Atlas
This Volkswagen Atlas is a three-row, midsize crossover SUV.

Read the Owner’s Manual

The best place to start when desiring to become familiar with your car is with the owner’s manual. This book is usually found in the glovebox and is often overlooked by car owners.

Your owner’s manual was developed by the manufacturer, who best understands how your car operates. You will find everything you need there, including how to operate that complex navigation system, explain warranty information and answer just about every question you have about your vehicle. Consider it your car’s “bible” or the book of wisdom when it comes to your vehicle.

Know the Oil Change Intervals

Your owner’s manual shows oil change intervals that may be much higher than what you were accustomed to performing in the past. Today’s engines mean that you may be able to put 5,000 to 7,500 miles on the odometer between changes, saving you money.

New engines, however, should have an oil change soon after you buy the car. Mike Allen, writing for Popular Mechanics, advises changing the oil after 20 miles and again after 1,000 miles. The goal here is to rid the engine of residual metal flakes that can appear in new engines. Follow your manufacturer’s recommended oil change intervals after that.

2017 Ford Mustang
The Ford Mustang remains America’s best-selling sport coupe.

Normal vs. Severe Driving Operation

Perhaps your manufacturer insists that there is no break-in period for your new car. Even so, you may want to spend the first several hundred miles easing up on the accelerator and brakes. Familiarize yourself with the way that your new car moves away from a dead stop. Shift your transmission into gear, release the brake, and gradually press down on the accelerator. Bring your car up to the locally posted speed and maintain your speed as you drive.

By carefully accelerating and maintaining your speed you will also learn how to maximize your vehicle’s fuel economy. When stopping, gradually press down on the brake until you come to a full stop. Driving at high speeds can cause your brakes to wear out faster too as more energy must be used to slow down your car. If possible, reduce your speed by coasting before applying the brakes advises Edmunds.com.

Understand Vehicle Technologies

There was a time when a car equipped with an AM/FM radio with cassette player was considered “loaded.” Today’s cars have far more features standard or available including power windows, door locks and side mirrors; an infotainment system; a navigation system and other technologies that were not available the last time you bought a new car.

This can mean you are unfamiliar with what is in your car and how these technologies work. Refer to your owner’s manual and acquaint yourself with your vehicle’s operation. Test every system, familiarizing yourself with the way each one works. If you detect a problem, you will be covered under your manufacturer’s bumper-to-bumper warranty plan, but only if you inform your dealer of your findings.

2017 Nissan Titan XD vehicle
This 2017 Nissan Titan XD is designed to pull up to 12,000 pounds.

Trailer-Towing Guidelines

Perhaps you bought a car, truck or an SUV because of its towing capabilities. Towing, however, should wait until you have driven your vehicle for a while.Your owner’s manual will probably advise you when towing can may begin. For example, Ford advises owners to “…drive your new vehicle at least 1,000 miles before you tow a trailer.” Too much pulling way too early in the vehicle’s life may prove too much for the engine and the transmission.

You can also keep your car looking new by washing and waxing it. Remove bird droppings as soon as possible to protect the paint. After a major winter weather event, wash your car to eliminate corrosive road salt. Vacuum and wipe down the interior regularly, apply sealant to the dashboard and across the doors, and keep your tires properly inflated at all times.

Beyond the First Few Years

Finally, if you plan to keep your car for many years beyond the warranty coverage period, purchasing an extended warranty may be smart. However, we advise you making this purchase just before the original warranty elapses to ensure you’re not paying for duplicate coverage. Warranties are pricey, so shop around.


See Also — My Car Maintenance Schedule: Normal or Severe?

Photos copyright Auto Trends Magazine. All rights reserved.

Filed Under: Special Tagged With: car care, car maintenance, CAR REPAIRS, extended warranties, FORD MUSTANG, Nissan Titan XD, OWNER'S MANUAL, TOWING, Volkswagen Atlas, wash, wax

Bigly Pickup Truck: Nissan Titan Crew Cab

April 19, 2017 by admin 8 Comments

Nissan’s all-new Titan strikes a responsive chord.

2017 Nissan Titan SL Crew Cab 4x4
2017 Nissan Titan SL Crew Cab 4×4.

Of the six major automakers with a presence in the US, Nissan is easily outpacing the other five. General Motors, Ford, Fiat Chrysler, Toyota and Honda looked on in envy last year as Nissan posted double-digit sales gains. Even as the market begins to pull back slightly, Nissan continues to outpace the pack.

The Nissan Rogue is the biggest contributor to the brand’s success, so much so that March’s sales tally was close to 40,000 units. Through the first quarter this year, Nissan has sold more than 111,000 Rogues, outpacing the Toyota Camry — America’s perennial best-selling car.

Not all models sell anywhere near as close to the Rogue, but not a few are contributing records sales. The Nissan Titan, a full-size pickup truck, topped 5,500 units sold last month, a record. Although this number is roughly equal to the number of F-150 trucks Ford sales every three days, it is still noteworthy.

After all, until the 2017 Titan redesign — following the introduction of the Titan XD in 2016 — achieving monthly sales of 1,000 units was no small feat. Today, large pickup truck shoppers see the Titan/Titan XD and like what the duo offers.

2017 Nissan Titan SL Crew Cab 4x4

Nissan Titan or Nissan Titan XD

I’ve spent ample time driving and reviewing both the Titan XD and the Titan. If you follow these pages, you already are familiar with my explanation outlining the differences between the two — the Titan is the standard pickup truck, while the Titan XD fills the white space between light- and heavy-duty full-size pickup trucks.

That also means Nissan isn’t participating in the heavy-duty class, continuing to allow Ford, Chevrolet/GMC, and Ram to control the market. At the same time, the Titan XD provides upwards of 12,000 pounds of towing capacity without the steep price of the heavy duties.

Following the Titan XD’s introduction in 2016, the redesigned Nissan Titan launched in 2017. The first-generation model lasted an uncommonly long 12 years — from 2004 to 2015 — there was no 2016 model.

2017 Nissan Titan SL Crew Cab 4x4

2017 Nissan Titan Trims

The 2017 Nissan Titan comes with standard rear-wheel drive and available four-wheel drive. Single and crew cab options are available; there is no extended cab. At least not as of this writing.

The Titan single cab is available in two trims: S ($29,580) and SV ($32,460) plus a $1,195 destination charge. Add $3,030 for four-wheel drive.

2017 Nissan Titan SL Crew Cab 4x4The Titan crew cab is available in five trims: S ($34,780), SV ($37,670), PRO-4X ($45,020), SL ($46,380) and Platinum Reserve ($52,310). The same destination charge applies here, but the four-wheel drive premium ranges from $3,030 to $3,090, depending on the trim. The PRO-4X does, by the way, come in four-wheel drive only.

My test model was the four-wheel-drive crew cab dressed in SL trim. Nissan was tame with the packages, including offering only the towing convenience package ($360), pushing the final price to $51,015. At this trim, there are three other packages available: chrome ($1,200), Texas ($1,250), and off-road ($400). I should point out the chrome and Texas packages are an either or proposition — both make important changes to the exterior, with one geared toward fanciness along the lines of GMC’s Denali trim and the other advancing a southwestern look commonly available in this segment.

The off-road package is, by the way, rolled into the chrome and Texas packages. All told, you could pay as much as $52,265 to drive away in a 2017 Nissan Titan Crew Cab SL 4×4.

My test model came with a broad front fascia amplified by LED lights, a massive hood, side vents with “Endurance” badging, and alloy wheels. At the rear is a locking tailgate with a retractable step bumper. A bed management system with rails and hooks is also present.

If there is anything of concern I would have about the exterior is the strength of the retractable step. It held my near-200 pound weight just fine, but some of you guys are beefier, topping 300 pounds…easily! I couldn’t find any information about a weight limit. Personally, I like GM’s corner step bumpers the best in this segment.

2017 Nissan Titan SL Crew Cab 4x4

Sizable Interior and Generous Amenities

The Titan Crew Cab seats five with generously portioned and comfortable bucket seats up front and a 60/40 split fold-up seat in the second row. That second-row seat also conceals an in-floor storage compartment, ideal for hiding tools and other pricey items out of the sight of prying eyes. Sure, you could still use an in-bed toolbox, but if you’re concerned about theft, the in-floor storage compartment is a nifty feature.

Full-size pickup trucks offer the most interior room of any two-row vehicle on the market. Nearly everything seems larger too — from the massive instrument cluster to a sizable center stack. I especially liked the oversized covered storage area between the seats — it is a great place to stash a laptop or a purse. You’ll also find in-door storage areas with two drink holders and a storage pocket. Four cup holders and seatback pockets are also present.

The Titan SL comes well equipped, adding leather seats, heated front seats, a 12-speaker Rockford Fosgate audio system, a power-sliding back window with defroster, and a power tilt and telescoping steering column to the list of features.

This model already comes with full power accessories and six airbags. You’ll also find trailer sway control, blind spot warning, rear cross traffic alert, and a front and rear sonar system for ease of parking.

Under the Hood and On/Off the Road

For now, the lone powertrain choice is a 5.6-liter, V8 gasoline engine, also available in the Titan XD. The V8 makes 390 horsepower and 394 pound-feet of torque and comes paired with a seven-speed automatic transmission. A V6 engine arrives later, but it will be available with the single cab only. The EPA rates this model at 15 mpg in the city and 21 mpg on the highway.

2017 Nissan Titan SL Crew Cab 4x4No, the Cummins 5.0-liter turbo-diesel available in the Titan XD is not available in the standard Titan. I asked a Nissan spokesman about this discrepancy and his answer was decidedly noncommittal. That means either the diesel will stay with the larger model or arrive later. Personally, I think Nissan would do well to make the Cummins as widely available as possible.

As for the V8, it is entirely suited for the task. No, I didn’t have anything to tow, but with 9,730 pounds of towing capacity and a 1,930-pound payload limit, for the single cab, you have a hard worker at the ready. Choose the crew cab and those numbers fall to 9,390 and 1,610 pounds, respectively. But still highly competitive.

Some pickup truck engines seem to strain under the load or offer long shift points between gears. Not so with the Nissan. The Titan isn’t quick off the mark, but as speed builds, it moves with authority. Passing power is excellent and I imagine if you were to tow, you’d be happy with the Titan just as you would with a Ford F-150, Ram 1500, Chevrolet Silverado, GMC Sierra or Toyota Tundra.

If you choose the four-wheel-drive model, you’ll find a switch-operated two-speed transfer case for shift-on-the-fly action — at speeds up to 60 mph. I’ve taken both the Titan and Titan XD off road several times and can vouch that each one is up to the task.

Parting Thoughts

The 2017 Nissan Titan in Crew Cab form should meet the needs of most buyers. It is a highly capable truck with a ladder frame and the on- and off-road credentials to go with it.

As with any large truck, prices can jump very quickly. For a well-equipped four-wheel drive model, expect to shop in the $45,000 range. At the same time, discounting in this segment is rampant — knocking $5,000 off your price shouldn’t be that difficult, especially as we head further into the model year.
2017 Nissan Titan SL Crew Cab 4x4

2017 Nissan Titan SL 4WD CC Specifications

Nissan Titan
Segment Full-Size Pickup Truck
Base Sticker Price $49,460
Price as Tested $51,015
Standard Engine 5.6-liter, V8
Transmission Seven-speed automatic
Horsepower 390 @ 5,800
Torque (lb.-ft.) 394 @ 4,000
Seating 2+3
Curb Weight (pounds) 5,684
Wheelbase (inches) 139.8
Length (inches) 228.5
Width (inches) 79.5 (without mirrors)
Height (inches) 77.2
Head room (f,r — inches) 41.0, 40.4
Leg room (f,r — inches) 41.8, 38.5
Shoulder room (f,r — inches) 63.3, 63.6
Hip room (f,r — inches) 60.8, 60.3
Storage (bed length) 67.0 inches
Gross vehicle weight (pounds) 7,300
Towing (pounds) 9,230 (tow package)
Payload (pounds) 1,620 (tow package)
Fuel regular
Fuel Tank (gallons) 26.0
EPA Fuel MPG (city/highway) 15/21
Manufacturing Plant Canton, Mississippi

2017 Nissan Titan SL Crew Cab 4x4
2017 Nissan Titan SL Crew Cab 4x4
2017 Nissan Titan SL Crew Cab 4x4
2017 Nissan Titan SL Crew Cab 4x4
2017 Nissan Titan SL Crew Cab 4x4
2017 Nissan Titan SL Crew Cab 4x4
2017 Nissan Titan SL Crew Cab 4x4
2017 Nissan Titan SL Crew Cab 4x4

Filed Under: New Car Reviews Tagged With: 2017 trucks, Chevrolet Silverado, FORD F-150, four-wheel drive, GMC SIERRA, Nissan Titan, Nissan Titan XD, PAYLOAD, PICKUP TRUCKS, RAM 1500, TOWING, TOYOTA TUNDRA, V8 engine

New 2017 Ford Super Duty Lifts the Bar

July 19, 2016 by admin 5 Comments

Payload, towing, and engine performance levels take a hike.

2017 Ford F-350 Lariat Crew Cab 4×4
2017 Ford F-350 Lariat Crew Cab 4×4.

The Ford Super Duty is the heavy duty version of the Ford F-Series, the best-selling pickup truck line in America. Along with the F-150, the Super Duty has enabled Ford to maintain its leadership in the segment for nearly four decades.

The F-150 was overhauled in 2015 and two years later the Super Duty gets its turn. The all-new model goes on sale this fall and Ford says that it will leave its competitors behind. Those competitors are comprised of the Ram 2500/3500, Chevrolet Silverado HD, and the GMC Sierra HD. Toyota and Nissan have full-size trucks too, but they’re absent from the heavy-duty market.

2017 Ford Super Duty

Like the current-generation F-150, the 2017 Ford Super Duty is outfitted with high-strength, military-grade, aluminum alloy as well as high-strength steel. The transition to the current metals means Ford was able to reduce vehicle weight by up to 350 pounds, an effort that allows the truck maker to enjoy benefits elsewhere.

Ford says the truck’s neoteric fully boxed frame is composed of more than 95 percent high-strength steel and is up to 24 times stiffer than the previous model. As a result, the 2017 Super Duty will see marked improvements in towing and hauling capacities.

Topping the Towing Charts

For Super Duty trucks powered by the 6.7-liter, Power Stroke V-8 Turbo Diesel engine, gooseneck towing rises to 32,500 pounds up from 31,200 pounds for the 2016 model.

Fifth-wheel towing capacity is now 27,500 pounds, up from 26,500 pounds. Conventional towing climbs to 21,000 pounds, up from 19,000 pounds. The maximum payload capacity is now rated at up 7,630 pounds, providing a significant boost over the previous 7,050-pound limit.

Other changes can be found in engine performance. The turbo diesel makes 440 horsepower and 925 foot-pounds of torque (previously 860 lb.-ft.). The 6.2-liter, gasoline V-8 also gets a performance upgrade and will make 385 horsepower and 440 foot-pounds of torque (previously 405 lb.-ft.). Each of these numbers applies to the F-450.

With the all-new model, Ford claims leadership in a number of categories. Without naming its competitors, Ford says the 2017 Super Duty now claims a gooseneck towing edge of 1,290 pounds over the next closest model. Further, the Ford has a 2,500-pound lead in fifth-wheel towing and a 1,000-pound edge in conventional towing.

As for F-250 and F-350 Super Duty models, the maximum conventional towing with the F-250 equipped with an all-new trailer tow package and the F-350 with a single-rear-wheel tops out at a class-leading 18,000 pounds.

New Safety Technologies

On the technology front, the 2017 Super Duty becomes the first truck to offer adaptive cruise control and collision warning with brake support for heavy trailers, a technology the company says enables truckers to negotiate steep mountain grades while sustaining speeds even when trailering 32,500 pounds.

The Super Duty also offers a center high-mounted stop lamp camera, what provides visibility into the cargo box. This feature is particularly beneficial when connecting both gooseneck and fifth-wheel trailers. The “Ultimate Trailer Tow Camera System” is composed of four digital, high-definition cameras to provide the driver with a 360-degree bird’s-eye view surrounding their Super Duty.

Also, “Trailer Reverse Guidance” supplies visual cues and tips to help ease backing up a trailer. Moreover, a first-ever factory-available trailer camera can also be custom-placed on a trailer to improve visibility while backing up.

Light or Heavy Duty Truck

Ford is on pace to sell 800,000 F-Series this year as sales are up by more than 10 percent in a segment where sales are up just over 7 percent. An all-new Super Duty should help matters, enabling Ford to put more distance between the F-150 and Chevy’s Silverado, and extend its sales streak to 40 years.


Further Reading

Ford: All-New 3.5-Liter, V-6 Engine Offers Significant Power Boost

Aluminum Super Duty: 2017 Ford F-350 Platinum 4WD

Photo copyright the Ford Motor Company.

Filed Under: Automotive News Tagged With: 2017 SUPER DUTY, 2017 trucks, CHEVROLET SILVERADO HD, FORD SUPER DUTY, HEAVY-DUTY TRUCK, PAYLOAD, POWER STROKE, RAM 2500, TOWING, turbodiesel

Ford: All-New 3.5-Liter, V-6 Engine Offers Significant Power Boost

July 13, 2016 by admin 2 Comments

Best-in-class performance from Ford’s largest EcoBoost engine.

2017 Ford F-150 Lariat Crew Cab.
2017 Ford F-150 Lariat Crew Cab.

The Ford Motor Company continues to provide reasons for customers to consider its best-selling F-Series pickup truck line. Its main model, the popular F-150, is endowed with countless configuration options and offers four gasoline engines for the choosing.

Second-Generation EcoBoost Engine

One of those engines is a turbocharged 3.5-liter, V-6 and come this fall the second-generation version will be released. The new engine will be paired exclusively with a 10-speed automatic transmission Ford developed in partnership with its chief rival, GM. The new transmission will also appear in other models, including the 2017 Mustang.

Benefitting the new engine is an increase in performance, with horsepower boosted from 365 hp to 375 hp. The most significant change, however, is in pulling power as torque rises from 420 foot-pounds to 470 foot-pounds. Notably, the extra power places the engine on top of the performance heap as it surpasses all diesel and gasoline competitors, including V-8s.

“The 2017 Ford F-150 now delivers the best torque in the segment,” says Raj Nair, Ford executive vice president, Product Development, and chief technical officer. “This class-leading torque arrives with a transformative 10-speed automatic that improves nearly every aspect of F-150 performance.”

New Power Plant Combination

Of the new power plant combination, Ford says it will supply improved acceleration and performance when compared with the current engine and six-speed transmission. Specifically, the second-generation engine “…provides better low-end and peak engine performance, ideal for hauling heavy payloads and towing heavy trailers.”

Depending on just how the truck is configured, Ford data reveals that the beefy V-6 can currently pull from 10,600 to 12,200 pounds. Data for the second-generation engine has not yet been released. The current fuel economy ratings of 17 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway are expected to improve.

Additional Engine Choices

The standard F-150 engine is a normally aspirated 3.5-liter, V-6 paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. This engine makes 282 horsepower and 253 foot-pounds of torque and replaced the previously used 3.7-liter V-6. It also has the lowest tow rating amongst the four engines offered, ranging from 5,000 to 7,600 pounds.

A smaller EcoBoost engine is also available, this one displacing at 2.7 liters. Paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission, its power ratings are 325 horsepower and 375 foot-pounds of torque. This truck has a tow rating ranging from 7,600 to 8,500 pounds. Along with the larger turbo engine, the two EcoBoost engines represent approximately 60 percent of all F-150 sales.

The only V-8 engine offered displaces at 5.0 liters and is paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Power ratings are 385 horsepower and 387 foot-pounds of torque with a tow rating ranging from 8,300 to 11,100 pounds.

Holding Off the Competition

The new power plant combination enables Ford to keep its F-150 product line fresh. Completely overhauled in 2015 and now featuring an aluminum body, truck sales for Ford have been strong this year. Indeed, the F-150 is experiencing the strongest growth in the segment as it is up 10.7 percent through the first half of the year according to GoodCarBadCar.net. Ford continues to enjoy strong sales despite a Chevrolet ad campaign poking holes at its aluminum body.

On the other hand, sales for the second-best selling Chevrolet Silverado are down 0.8 percent through the same period. Other models in this segment include the Ram Pickup (up 8.8 percent), the GMC Sierra (up 5.6 percent), the Toyota Tundra (down 9.9 percent) and the Nissan Titan (up 8.8 percent). The Nissan is the newest model in the segment with its latest edition rolling out this calendar year.


Recent News — Baseball, Apple Pie, and the Toyota Camry?

2017 Ford F-150 Lariat photo copyright the Ford Motor Company.

Filed Under: Automotive News Tagged With: 10-speed automatic transmission, 2017 trucks, EcoBoost, FORD F-150, GM, HORSEPOWER, TORQUE, TOWING, V-6 ENGINE

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