CHEVROLET COLORADO

Refreshed 2021 Chevrolet Colorado Breaks Cover

October 11, 2019 by admin 1 Comment

A first look at the refreshed Chevrolet Colorado.

For some time now, we have been expecting GM to update the Chevrolet Colorado, the midsize truck line it relaunched in 2015 along with the GMC Canyon. The automaker hasn’t disappointed us as this week it revealed a fresh look for the 2021 Colorado, which will go on sale next year. A Canyon update will follow, although that news is pending.

The coming changes depend on the trim level, with the WT, LT and Z71 receiving modified center bars, lower fascias, and front skid plates. Further, the WT and LT trims gain all-new gold Chevy bow tie logos, while the Z71 receives a black bow tie logo.

Some of the most significant differentiation covers the range-topping performance ZR2 model as it will receive an all-new, lettered, flow-through “Chevrolet” front fascia. The look is unique to this trim. Chevrolet says the “ZR2’s new front end provides drivers with improved visibility and looks even more aggressive, which adds to its dynamic, “segment of one” appearance.”

Every Colorado trim will feature a revised “bow tie” emblem along with a tailgate embossed with “Chevrolet” lettering that replaces the current bow tie. Chevrolet will showcase the new model at this year’s SEMA show.

Every 2021 Colorado trim features tailgate embossing.

Additional Changes Pending?

With no mention of interior changes, this leaves us wondering if there is more news to follow.

Available in extended and crew cab configurations, the Colorado has seen modest changes since its return after a brief hiatus. In 2018, Chevrolet ditched the original 4.2-inch display screen for a 7-inch touch-screen interface. They also made Android Auto and Apple CarPlay smartphone integration standard equipment.

Beginning in 2019, Chevrolet rolled out updated infotainment software and added more USB ports front and rear. For 2020, the most significant change includes a newly available locking tailgate.

Three Powertrain Combinations

Auto Trends expects the current powertrain arrangements to carry over. Both the standard 2.5-liter gas and the 2.8-liter turbo-diesel engines are likely to stay matched to a six-speed automatic transmission. An eight-speed automatic works with the available 3.6-liter V6 engine.

The current Colorado has a trailering capacity ranging from 3,500 to 7,700 pounds. Its upper end tops the competition, which includes the Toyota Tacoma, Ford Ranger, Nissan Frontier, and the Jeep Gladiator.

2020 Chevrolet Colorado

If you can’t wait for the refreshed Colorado, the 2020 edition is available. This model comes in WT (work truck), LT, Z71, and ZR2 trims. The extended cab model has a 6-foot-2-inch bed, while the crew cab supplies you with a choice of 5-foot-2-inch and 6-foot-2-inch beds. The longer bed is designed to haul 8-foot-long-items with the tailgate down.

Prices range from about $22,000 to just over $53,000, depending on how it is equipped. Chevrolet keeps in place specials that will save you thousands of dollars off the sticker price on well-equipped models.

To date, Chevrolet has sold 520,000 of its current-generation Colorado pickup truck. In current sales, the Colorado sits a distant second to Toyota, but is well ahead of Nissan. However, the Ford Ranger is gaining fast, while the Jeep Gladiator continues to enjoy increased demand. Not bad for a segment that seemed as if it was dying a decade ago.

2020 Chevrolet Colorado Specifications

Chevrolet	2020 Colorado
Segment	Midsize Pickup Truck
Price Range	$21,300 to $47,495
Destination Charge	$1,095
Engine No. 1	2.5-liter, I4
Horsepower	200 @ 6,300 rpm
Torque (lb.-ft.)	191 @ 4,400 rpm
Transmission	6-speed automatic
Engine No. 2	3.6-liter, V6
Horsepower	308 @ 6,800 rpm
Torque (lb.-ft.)	275 @ 4,000 rpm
Transmission	8-speed automatic
Engine No. 3	2.8-liter, turbo-diesel I4
Horsepower	186 @ 3,400 rpm
Torque (lb.-ft.)	369 @ 2,000 rpm
Transmission	6-speed automatic
Seating	5
Curb Weight (pounds)	3,936 to 4,641
Wheelbase (inches)	128.3 or 140.5
Length (inches)	212.7 or 224.9
Width (inches)	74.3
Height (inches)	70.3 to 70.7
Headroom (f,r…inches)	41.4, 38.3
Leg room (f,r…inches)	45.0, 35.8
Shoulder room (f,r…inches)	57.5, 56.2
Hip room (f,r…inches)	55.0, 53.3
Storage (cubic feet)	5-foot-2-inch or 6-foot-2-inch box
Gross vehicle weight (pounds)	5,400 to 6,100
Towing (pounds)	3,500 to 7,700
Payload (pounds)	1,342 to 1,569
Fuel	Regular or diesel
Fuel Tank (gallons)	21
EPA Fuel MPG (city/highway/combined)	20/26/22 (I4); 20/30/23 (diesel)
Manufacturing Plant	Wentzville, Missouri

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

See Also — The 2017 Honda Ridgeline by the Numbers

Photos copyright GM Corp.

Ram Gets a Midsize Pickup Truck

September 17, 2018 by admin 4 Comments

A Dakota replacement is in the works.

Dodge Dakota — The Dodge Ram was the first midsize pickup truck.

Once considered a dying segment, the midsize pickup truck market is showing fresh signs of life. Much credit is due to GM for releasing a pair of new trucks in 2015 — the Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon. Those trucks lifted sales among such competing models as the Toyota Tacoma and Nissan Frontier, and rejuvenated the segment.

Honda Ridgeline, Ford Ranger Return

Early in 2019, the Ford Ranger returns after an 8-year hiatus. About the same time, the Jeep Scrambler joins the market, the first pickup truck from this SUV brand we’ve seen in decades. Honda has the Ridgeline, a crossover pickup truck based on the architecture underpinning the Honda Pilot.

The segment isn’t done yet. A new model from Nissan seems imminent and the Tacoma will likely see a significant overhaul in the next year or two as Toyota seeks to defend its top position in the segment. Next up is a Ram pickup truck, an expected all-new model recently confirmed for production as reported by Automotive News.

2019 Ford Ranger — The Ford Ranger returns in early 2019.

From Dodge To Ram

Not much is known about the Ram, which replaces the Dodge Dakota last produced in 2010 (it was sold as the Ram Dakota in 2011). What we do know is that the Ram will be built at the same Toledo, Ohio, manufacturing plant as the Jeep Scrambler. Both models are traditional body-on-frame and will likely have multiple powertrain, cabin and bed choices available.

But the Ram, like the Jeep, will not be a high volume model. The segment has supported about 500,000 units annually, which is a far cry from the 2.4 million full-size pickup trucks sold every year in the U.S. alone.

Manufacturers, however, may look at midsize pickup trucks as the key to improving overall fuel economy. Yes, full-size pickup trucks from GM, Ford and Ram earn up to 30 mpg highway when motivated by a turbo-diesel engine. But those engines represent only a small portion of the motors powering pickup trucks.

2019 Ram 1500. — 2019 Ram 1500 Rebel (l) and Limited editions (r).

Hybrid Pickup Trucks

Ram is the first manufacturer to introduce hybrids, utilizing mild hybrids in some models. They’re not full-blown hybrids, but they do bring vehicle electrification along with the enhanced power to the segment. We’ll soon see plug-in hybrid pickup trucks, which will only enhance fuel efficiency.

The smaller, lighter midsize trucks may prove the most efficient models as these come with standard four-cylinder engines. Just as Ram has the first hybrid trucks, we’ll see that technology spread to Jeep and to the Dakota replacement, as both brands are owned by Fiat Chrysler.

The Jeep Wrangler, for instance, will soon boast a plug-in hybrid model, arriving on the market about a year after an available turbo-diesel engine debuts next year. It seems likely that whatever the Wrangler gets will head to the Scrambler. And because the Scrambler and midsize Ram share the same architecture, ditto for the Dakota replacement.

2017 GMC Canyon Denali Crew Cab 4×4 short bed.

Ram Pickup Truck Aspirations

Although there isn’t much known about the new Ram pickup, there are a few things we can deduce. For starters, extended cab and crew cab configurations along with two bed size choices are a given.

FCA’s venerable 3.6-liter V6 and a turbo-charged 2,0-liter four-cylinder engine should kick things off. One or both will be paired with a six-speed manual transmission or to an available 9-speed automatic transmission (standard with four-wheel drive). Segment-leading technologies, including infotainment and driver-assist features, will dominate the top-end trims.

In all, the upcoming Ram should only burnish the brand. Given that, the Ram is only possible because of the Jeep Scrambler, which is based on the popular Wrangler. Together, the three models should deliver the profits the automaker requires to justify such models.

A Whole Lot of Awesome:
Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 Bison

September 7, 2018 by admin 12 Comments

A tricked-out truck for the midsize range.

2019 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 Bison — This ZR2 Bison has the attitude and off-road cred to go with it.

Chevrolet just raised the bar in the midsize performance pickup truck category by introducing its latest model, the Colorado ZR2 Bison. The Bison builds on the off-road-ready ZR2 thanks to a collaboration Chevrolet has with American Expedition Vehicles (AEV), a premium off-road aftermarket manufacturer.

The new model goes on sale in January 2019. Here’s what you need to know about this tricked-out Chevy.

1. Five Underbody Skid Plates

2019 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 Bison If you’re a serious off-roader, then you know your pickup truck needs protection. Jagged terrain can puncture a gas tank or destroy expensive moving parts.

The ZR2 Bison gets five underbody skid plates, which is more than the usual three or four typically offered.

The skid plates cover the fuel tank, the engine oil pan, the transfer case and both the front and rear locking differentials. AEV designed the plates, which are made of hard, durable hot-stamped Boron steel. The steel not only protects, but it adds minimal weight.

2. Additional Reinforcing Steel

The ZR2 Bison benefits from reinforcing stamped steel for the front and rear bumpers. The idea here is to provide an additional measure of protection for drivers as they climb obstacles.

3. Lettering and Decal Changes

You’d expect Chevrolet to make the ZR2 Bison stand out in other ways, right? Well, you won’t be disappointed.

It begins with the unique flow-through “CHEVROLET” lettered grille, which replaces the expected bow-tie insignia. It is a look competing manufacturers have successfully employed (Ford and Toyota, for instance) and something customers seem to appreciate.

Other decorative changes include special “Bison” decals on the bed sides along with an “AEV Bison” logo on the tailgate. Inside, AEV logo floor liners and front head restraints complete the look.

(See Also — Ram Gets a Midsize Pickup Truck)

2019 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 Bison

Building on the Best

Go with the Bison and you’re building on the many attributes of the ZR2, including the unique front and rear locking differentials, which no competing model offers. Special Multimatic DSSV dampers are also unique to the segment.

The ZR2 models come with off-road rocker protection, cast-iron control arms and an Autotrac transfer case. Both models have a modified 3.42 ratio rear axle along with front and rear tracks widened by 3.5 inches and a suspension lifted by 2 inches over a Colorado Z71. These models ride on 31-inch tires.

Chevrolet will offer the ZR2 Bison in both extended- and crew-cab configurations. The truck is powered by a 3.6-liter V6 engine or customers may upgrade to the 2.8-liter turbo-diesel four-cylinder engine. Available equipment includes an accessory snorkel, which enhances air filtration on dusty trails.

ZR2 Bison: Looking Ahead

Chevrolet hasn’t shared pricing information yet, but we wouldn’t be surprised if the ZR2 Bison ends up costing at least $45,000. Choose the diesel engine and your final cost might push $50,000. That’s likely in the same territory that a future Ford Ranger Raptor model would cost, based on Ford’s midsize truck, which is also debuting this January.

2019 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 Bison

Ford Opens Order Book for 2019 Ranger

August 15, 2018 by admin 6 Comments

The 2019 Ranger makes an online splash.

Updated Dec. 12, 2018, reflecting newly released performance details.

The wait is nearly over. For the all-new Ford Ranger, that is.

After an eight-year hiatus, the 2019 Ford Ranger is set to return. Indeed, this week Ford opened the online order book, which allows customers to configure a new Ranger on the dealer’s website or through the Ford retail site. That moved revealed several things about the new model, although a few details remain unknown.

Here is what we know about the 2019 Ford Ranger midsize pickup truck:

1. It is larger than the model it replaces.

This isn’t new information, rather it simply underscores what Ford told us early on: the new Ranger is larger than the previous model. Importantly, instead of matching up with the small pickup trucks of the past, the new model is ideally suited to take on the Chevrolet Colorado, Toyota Tacoma, GMC Canyon and the Nissan Frontier. Its arrival comes just ahead of the all-new Jeep Scrambler. Next year, a Ford Bronco SUV variant debuts.

2. You’ll find one powertrain combination.

Whereas the big Ford F-150 has multiple powertrain combinations, the 2019 Ranger has just one. At least for now. Powering every model is a turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine. It works with a 10-speed automatic transmission.

This engine makes 270 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. Notably, the Ranger 4×2 makes an EPA-estimated 21 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway, for a combined 23 mpg. The four-wheel-drive model is rated 20/24 or 22 mpg combined. These numbers are tops amongst gas-powered models in the segment.

The maximum towing capacity is 7,500 pounds, which beats each gas-powered competitor.

3. There are two cab choices available.

To the disappointment of some, but probably only for a small number, the 2019 Ranger will not offer a regular cab model. This isn’t surprising as the market long ago abandoned two-door pickup trucks.

Instead, you’ll find an extended or SuperCab and SuperCrew choices available, with room for as many as five individuals. Now I cannot tell you that five people will fit in comfort, especially if you’re looking at work crew type individuals. Families, however, will likely gravitate to the SuperCrew for its roominess alone.

4. You have a choice of two bed sizes.

Depending on the cab size chosen, you’ll find two bed choices. All SuperCab models have a six-foot bed, while all SuperCrew models come with a five-foot bed. Rumors of an eight-foot bed option are just that. Rumors.

5. There are three trims to start.

Talk of a Ford Ranger Raptor is just that. Talk. At least for the U.S. market. Yes, there is a Raptor in the Ranger fold, but it isn’t available in North America at this time.

Instead, buyers will choose from three trims: XL ($25,395), XLT ($29,035) and Lariat ($33,305). These prices are based on the standard SuperCab 4×2 model and include a $1,095 destination fee. Start with the SuperCrew and you’ll add $2,220 to your price. Opting for four-wheel drive adds $4,160.

We expect additional trims to roll out in the future, including an off-road romping and stomping Raptor.

(See Also — Ford Ranger Fun Facts)

6. It comes with a long list of standard features.

There isn’t a stripped 2019 Ranger to be had. Sure, the amenities list grows as you work your way up the trim and package chain, but the base model is certainly a decent place to start shopping.

Among the standard items are automatic headlamps, a pair of front tow hooks on four-wheel-drive models, 16-inch steel wheels, a cargo lamp and four cargo bed tie downs. Inside, this model has power windows, cloth seats, air conditioning and a four-speaker audio package. You’ll also find a pre-collision assist system with automatic emergency braking, pedestrian detection, forward collision warning and brake support.

Other trims will have such features as heated front seats, leather-trimmed seats, dual-zone climate control and additional power accessories. Then again, as the next section indicates, many of these items will be bundled in a package for lower trim models.

7. Yes, we have packages!

Pickup truck models allow for much customization and the 2019 Ranger is no exception. If you have ever built a Ford F-150, you know that there are millions of ways to craft one. The Ranger will be a bit easier, but it does offer package options that are worth exploring.

On the base model, the 101A Package ($1,135) adds power mirrors, SYNC connectivity, a Wi-Fi hotspot and a six-speaker audio system. The 301A Package ($995), which is available with the XLT, brings in SYNC 3 infotainment with satellite radio and a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shifter. A 302A Package builds on this, adding power-controlled and heated front seats with lumbar support, sport appearance touches, a manual sliding rear window and remote start.

Although the Lariat comes well equipped, there are a few upgrades of note. For instance, the 501A Package ($1,795) brings in the Technology Package and remote start along with rain-sensing wipers and a Bang & Olufsen audio system. Like elsewhere, you’ll find trailer tow, sport appearance and chrome appearance packages.

7. Building Your 2019 Ford Ranger

Have fun building your sample Ranger. With the performance numbers now in, you have enough details to compare this model with the competition.

See Also — Return of the Ford Ranger?

All photos and the configurator screenshot are courtesy of the Ford Motor Company.

New Pickup Truck Shopping Tips

April 3, 2018 by admin 2 Comments

Find the right truck at the right price.

2018 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Centennial Edition. — 2018 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Z71 Centennial Edition.

If you are in the market for a new pickup truck, you may be considering a brand you are already familiar with. That’s a sensible approach as pickup truck buyers are typically brand loyal. In particular, they are more likely to stick with what they already know and like. For everyone else, shopping for a new truck requires research in an effort to make an informed decision. The following points are worth considering as you undertake your quest.

When Size Matters

When shopping or purchasing a new truck, there are essentially three size categories to consider: medium, full-size and heavy duty.

These days, your medium truck options include the Toyota Tacoma, Nissan Frontier, Chevrolet Colorado, GMC Canyon and the slightly larger Honda Ridgeline. Models from Ford (Ranger) and Ram (Dakota) left the market in recent years, although the Ranger is set for a return.

The smaller models offer extended and crew cab choices. You’ll also typically find standard and extended beds.

The main segment for pickup trucks are the full-size models. The Ford F-150, Chevrolet Silverado 1500, GMC Sierra 1500, Ram 1500, Toyota Tundra and Nissan Titan compete in this segment, with each supplying a variety of cabin configurations and truck bed sizes.

The heavy-duty truck market is essentially controlled by the American truck manufacturers. The Ford Super Duty, Chevrolet Silverado/GMC Sierra 2500HD/3500HD and the Ram 2500 and 3500 occupy this segment. Each heavy duty line has oversized gasoline or diesel engines.

Nissan also offers a model that straddles the standard full-size and heavy-duty lines, the Titan XD. This truck has a higher towing capacity than the standard Titan, although models such as the light-duty F-150 now match or beat those limits.

2WD vs. 4WD

What you use your truck for will go far in helping you determine what type of drivetrain layout that is right for you. Two-wheel drive trucks come with the rear wheels while four-wheel drive trucks can activate all four wheels as needed. Choose the latter and your truck can give you the traction and off-road prowess as you desire.

The Honda Ridgeline is the lone exception to the 2WD vs. 4WD debate. This model is all-wheel-drive or powered by its front wheels most of the time with its rear wheels activated as needed.

Payload and Towing

Of big concern to many pickup truck owners is how much weight a truck can carry (payload) and how much weight it can pull (towing). These numbers vary from truck to truck and even from model to model. It is advisable to find the manufacturer’s payload/towing capacity chart, usually supplied right on its sales page.

The payload includes the weight of the driver, his passengers, fluids and what’s stored inside the pickup and in the bed. Towing is the ability of any truck to pull something behind it when hitched — such as a boat, a trailer or a camper. Add towing and payload together and you get your vehicle’s gross vehicle weight.

Consider all three numbers when buying a new truck.

Convenience Features

Today’s pickup trucks come well equipped and outfitted with many of the luxury appointments you can find in a premium sedan, such as leather seats, a heated steering wheel and wood trim. Still, when buying any new vehicle, you should determine which amenities are important to you.

Most pickups offer standard equipment such as an automatic transmission, power accessories, cloth seating surfaces, climate control, an audio system, multiple storage compartments and important safety features such as airbags and antilock brakes.

Popular options include fog lamps, off-road tires, power side mirrors, a navigation system, a rear backup camera, folding rear seats, an overhead console, a rear DVD entertainment system and a lined cargo area.

Truck Fuel Economy

There was a time when buying an economical pickup meant choosing the smallest truck and opting for the manual transmission. These days, your choices have improved considerably, although few trucks get 30 mpg on the highway. These come with a turbo-diesel engine.

What you will usually find are trucks that get 25 mpg on the highway, something both the smaller Toyota Tacoma and larger Ram 1500 achieve. The smaller trucks come with inline-four or V-6 gas engines, while the larger trucks are usually equipped with a standard V-6 or optional V-8 gasoline engines. Again, only select models offer diesel engines.

As for transmissions, you’ll find very few manuals. Most pickups have six-, eight- or even 10-speed automatic transmissions. The few manual gearboxes available come with the median-sized trucks.

Other matters to consider when buying a new pickup is its price, with your cost ranging from just over $20,000 for a basic medium pickup to well over $65,000 for a fully optioned heavy-duty model. Each manufacturer offers a dizzying array of model variations, enabling you to customize your truck to suit your needs and budget.

See Also — How to Buy a Repo Vehicle

Used Cars: Where the Bargains Are

September 20, 2017 by admin 3 Comments

Bargains on used cars are available if you know where to look.

The average price of a new car is approximately $35,000 according to Kelley Blue Book, a price point that’s well beyond the reach of many car shoppers. One way to avoid that high cost is to settle for a lower-priced model, but that may mean making sacrifices on vehicle size, quality, and comfort. Another way to avoid the high cost of a new car is to buy used, particularly cars that are two to three years old, bargains that can be found by weighing the following several important considerations.

Consideration No. 1 — Initial Depreciation

The major drawback of buying any new car is that first-year depreciation can lop 20 to 30 percent off of its vehicle’s value. That means a $36,000 new car may be worth just $25,200 after the first year, a loss that the original owner must take.

That loss should be viewed as an opportunity for used car buyers. While most owners will hold on to their cars for a few years, cars that are leased are typically returned after just two or three years. Leased cars are sometimes resold at auction, but they’re also available for sale through new car dealers to help bolster inventories.

Consideration No. 2 — Larger or Less Popular

Depreciation for more popular models comes in lower than the industry average. That means if you are looking for a bargain, you should turn your eyes elsewhere.

Elsewhere includes models that consume more fuel such as big SUVs or ones that are simply not that popular including vehicles from discontinued brands or models.

Suzuki quit selling its vehicles in the United States in 2012. The company was never a big player on the market, but it did offer several smaller models such as the SX4 that were good on gas.

You can check the market value of any used car for free by visiting Kelley Blue Book. Suzuki may no longer sell its cars in America, but it still is available to service your vehicle and to handle warranty concerns.

Consideration No. 3 — Wear and Tear

If you find a used car that is still under the manufacturer’s new car warranty, then you have a bonus in your hands. However, you must ensure that the warranty transfers to you and at no cost.

Other warranties that may still be in effect include rust and powertrain, the latter sometimes good for up to 100,000 miles. If you are shopping for a used hybrid vehicle, the typical warranty is for eight years or 100,000 miles on your hybrid battery system.

One model, the Hyundai Sonata Hybrid, offers a lifetime warranty, but it is not transferable to a new owner. Regardless of warranty considerations, there is a mileage point where buying a used vehicle makes sense. That point is before major repairs or expensive maintenance takes place.

Used cars that have under 50,000 miles on the odometer and have been well maintained, should go another 50,000 miles before more expensive maintenance and repairs become a factor. Still, tires are generally replaced by 50,000 miles and brakes, oil, air filters, batteries, and fluids will have been serviced or replaced. Costlier repairs such as water pumps, hoses, belts, mufflers, suspension system parts and electronic sensors can happen at any time.

Major work such as engine repair, transmission replacement or body work can usually be avoided if a car has been properly maintained. Ask the owner for car maintenance records and obtain a vehicle history report.

Consideration No. 4 — Consider the Seller Pool

You can find a bargain on a used car by careful shopping. Know that if you choose to buy from a dealer, you will pay the customary mark up to cover the dealer’s expenses and profits. However, you may also receive a limited warranty, something that a private seller may not be able to offer.

New car dealers stock their inventories with newer used cars to supplement their new car inventories. Used car dealers may feature newer cars to much older models. Either way, you will face the dealer’s mark up.

You can also consider a car from a rental car company. Enterprise, Hertz, and Budget are among the companies that sell off their fleets to private buyers, cars that typically have 12,000 to 50,000 miles on the odometer. You will find, however, that there is little room to negotiate on price. What you will receive is a vehicle that has been well maintained. Thus, your bargain may not be on price, but on care.

The best bargains on used cars are typically through private party sellers. These individuals are simply seeking to sell a car they no longer want or need and will price their cars accordingly. You can verify what any vehicle should fetch by checking its private party value through Kelley Blue Book or NADAGuides.com.

Used Cars: The Art of Negotiation

Your best deal on any used car can be had by negotiating the vehicle’s price. With the information you have on hand about its value, you have a good starting point for your negotiation.

Present your best offer, await the seller’s counter offer, then find a middle ground that will satisfy both parties.

See Also — 8 Steps to Buying a Used Car

Premium Truck: GMC Canyon Denali Crew Cab 4×4

April 11, 2017 by admin 15 Comments

GMC brings luxury touches to its midsize pickup truck.

2017 GMC Canyon Denali Crew Cab 4x4 short bed. — 2017 GMC Canyon Denali Crew Cab 4×4 short bed.

It’s been three years since GMC reintroduced its midsize Canyon pickup truck, this brand’s equivalent of the Chevrolet Colorado. Both trucks have been an overwhelming success for GM and the segment’s renewal follows that achievement.

Yes, the Toyota Tacoma remains the class leader. And although the Nissan Frontier is clearly aged, that fact hasn’t kept customers away from the Nissan. Indeed, the Frontier is the value leader with its most expensive vehicle costing about $8,000 less than the competition. Within two years, both Ford and Jeep will soon field trucks in this segment once again.

2017 GMC Canyon Denali

The GMC Canyon Denali is an example of a top-tier truck with a retail price of $42,820 for the Crew Cab short-wheelbase model (plus $995 for destination). Yes, it is possible to top $50,000 with a Denali powered by the optional 2.8-liter turbodiesel four-cylinder engine along with a bed-mounted tubular bar. My test model cost “only” $44,155 — that in itself is a stunning figure. Nevertheless, it is very easy to save thousands of dollars off of the sticker price due to manufacturer incentives alone.’

Read “Denali” and immediately you should recognize the top-trim of the GMC line. Every GMC product features Denali, a line marked by chrome touches across the grille, front skid plate, side mirror caps, window trim, door handles, and the wheels. Inside, you’ll find leather generously used in many places — on the dashboard, the seats, and surrounding the steering wheel. Woodgrain and aluminum trim adds contrast, elevating this model.

The base Canyon truck begins at $21,880, an extended cab, rear-wheel drive model with vinyl floor covering and no rear seat. You’ll also find a 2.5-liter, four-cylinder engine with 200 horsepower and 191 pound-feet of torque. This engine comes with with a six-speed manual transmission. Optionally, a six-speed automatic transmission is available.

2017 GMC Canyon Denali.

Standard Equipment: Exterior and Interior

Standard Canyon Denali equipment includes projector-type headlights with LED signature lights, daytime running lights, front fog lamps, front recovery hooks, and 20-inch ultra-bright machined aluminum wheels. You’ll also find side assist steps, a locking tailgate, corner step bumpers, spray on bedliner, and cargo area lamps. Power side mirrors with a heating function are also standard.

Inside, you’ll find room for five. Of course, the crew cab is best suited for holding five; the extended cab offers limited legroom. Even with space for five, the crew cab is best suited for four grown men. Plush and supportive bucket seats are up front; a 6040 split folding bench seat is in the rear.

The front seats offer four-way power adjustment and power lumbar support. Every model comes equipped with keyless entry, full power accessories, cruise control, a tilt and telescopic steering column, steering wheel-mounted controls, a heated steering wheel, heated and ventilated front seats, and a sliding rear window.

On the connectivity front, the Canyon Denali rocks it. You’ll find no less than four USB ports, OnStar, 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot, Bluetooth, and an available seven-speaker Bose audio system. An eight-inch color display sits at the top of the center stack and acts as the “nerve center” for all things infotainment.

2017 GMC Canyon Denali
2017 GMC Canyon Denali.

The infotainment system comes with navigation and this may be the GMC’s weakest point. The maps are accurate and colorful, but when it comes to understanding voice commands, not so much. Indeed, after more than a half-dozen tries to find my son’s soccer field, we abandoned the system and used our Siri phones to satisfy our needs. And it wasn’t just a recurring local mistake — the IntelliLink system pulled up addresses out of state again and again.

As for standard safety equipment, beyond the usual traction and stability control, anti-lock brakes, and a suite of airbags you’ll find a rearview camera. Lane departure warning and forward collision alert are also included. GMC adds in “Teen Driver,” a function enabling parents to restrict certain behaviors as well as to track the teen’s driving habits.

Two Engine Choices

The four-cylinder engine is not available in the Denali. Instead, GMC supplies a 3.6-liter V6 engine, which is also available in upper trim Canyon models. This engine makes 308 horsepower and 275 pound-feet of torque and comes with with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Two-wheel drive models make an EPA-estimated 18 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway. Four-wheel drive models come in at 17/24 mpg city/highway.

New this year and available with the Canyon Denali is a 2.8-liter turbocharged diesel engine. What’s significant about the turbo-diesel is that the GMC (and Chevrolet) are the only models in this segment to offer one. The TD makes 181 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque and also delivers the best fuel economy in the segment — 22/30 for two-wheel drive and 20/28 with four-wheel drive. This engine comes with with a six-speed automatic transmission.

As for the drive, the Canyon Denali moves away from a full stop with some deliberation. The truck seems heavy and it is — the 4×4 weighs in at just over 4,500 pounds. That’s a lot of mass to move and no wonder the V6 is standard.

2017 GMC Canyon Denali

I was more than a little surprised to encounter some hesitation with the transmission as I applied pressure to the gas pedal. Typically, gears shift smoothly, but in several instances the shift changes came in longer than I expected or wanted. Slight hesitations, but noticeable nonetheless. Notably, the gear changes seemed rough when upshifting, but not when downshifting.

Parting Thoughts

Overall, the ride is as smooth as you would expect for a midsize pickup truck — not horribly bumpy, but not as smooth as a sedan. I don’t think ride quality is the biggest issue with such trucks anyway — payload, towing, and overall versatility rank high.

Off-road capabilities is important to some, but even as a 4×2 the Canyon should satisfy most customers. It doesn’t have the girth of a GMC Sierra and that’s important to some. At the same time, the Canyon isn’t anything like the tiny Chevrolet Luv trucks that once represented the bottom of the segment. Sure, some people would prefer the tiny trucks that once plied America’s roadways, but the “chicken tax” has assured us that nothing of the sort will happen. Instead, we may see a few car-based models appear down the line, with Hyundai reportedly considering one.

All in all, the Canyon Denali is a truck that blends elegance with burliness, but it comes at a steep cost. If you can live without the Denali label, a fully-optioned truck should cost you no more than $35,000. At the same time, you may find that discounting on the larger Sierra comes in steeper, bringing into play a truck you might have thought too big for your needs or at least out of your range.

2017 GMC Canyon Denali

2017 GMC Denali Canyon

2017 GMC Canyon Denali Crew Cab 4×4 Specifications

GMC	Canyon Denali
Segment	midsize pickup truck
Base Sticker Price	$42,820
Price as Tested	$44,155
Standard Engine	3.6-liter, V6
Transmission	Eight-speed automatic
Horsepower	308 @ 6,800
Torque (lb.-ft.)	275 @ 4,000
Seating	2+3
Curb Weight (pounds)	4,545
Wheelbase (inches)	128.3
Length (inches)	212.4
Width (inches)	74.3 (without mirrors)
Height (inches)	70.6
Head room (f,r — inches)	41.4, 38.3
Leg room (f,r — inches)	45.0, 35.8
Shoulder room (f,r — inches)	57.5, 56.3
Hip room (f,r — inches)	55.0, 53.4
Storage (cubic feet)	41.3
Gross vehicle weight (pounds)	5,800
Towing (pounds)	3,500/7,000 (tow package)
Fuel	regular
Fuel Tank (gallons)	21
EPA Fuel MPG (city/highway)	17/24
Manufacturing Plant	Wentzville, Missouri

Honda Ridgeline Strikes Back!

January 14, 2016 by admin 3 Comments

An all-new Honda Ridgeline is poised to hit the market. The latest iteration is conventionally styled while retaining its unibody construction.

The Honda Ridgeline returns this spring after a two-year hiatus. The second-generation midsize pickup truck model debuted at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit this week, making a clean break from the previous edition. At least when it comes to styling.

Second-Generation Honda Ridgeline

What hasn’t changed is the Ridgeline’s unibody construction as it uses a car-like architecture it shares with the Honda Pilot SUV. This means front-wheel drive is standard, while all-wheel drive is optional.

“We are bringing our unique technology and original thinking to the market in a new and challenging concept for a Honda pickup,” said John Mendel, executive vice president of American Honda Motor Co., Inc. “We think we’ve got a better idea, a truck that uses its unibody construction and Honda packaging magic to deliver more of the things that many of today’s truck customers want and need with none of the things they don’t.”

Nevertheless, if you’re looking for the Honda Ridgeline to provide 4×4 off-road thrills along the lines of the Toyota Tacoma or Chevrolet Colorado, you’ll be disappointed. Just the same, Honda designed the new pickup truck to handle all other truck duties, what should satisfy a significant number of consumers.

Your Four-Door Pickup Truck

As before, the Honda Ridgeline is available only as a four door. That shouldn’t be much of an issue, as regular cab sales can be counted in the single digits. Its latest design aligns more closely to today’s crop of midsize models — you will be forgiven if you find yourself comparing its look to the GMC Canyon or the Nissan Frontier.

Like competing pickup trucks, the 2017 Ridgeline has been designed and developed in the United States. It will also be built stateside — at its manufacturing plant in Lincoln, Alabama. That’s the same approach Nissan and Toyota have taken to gain acceptance in this all-American passenger vehicle segment.

To effectively battle in a competitive segment, Honda has to approach potential customers with something different. It already knows that it will not and it can not reach off-road enthusiasts. On the other hand, Honda has designed the Ridgeline to provide excellent on-road utility as well as overall versatility.

Updated Engine and Transmission

What should help Honda is the Ridgeline’s 3.5-liter, V-6 engine, its only engine choice. This direct-injection motor is paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission, forming the only powertrain combination offered.

Honda hasn’t specified numbers yet, but the automaker claims that among midsize V-6 pickup truck models, it expects to lead the segment in a few key areas. Specifically, Honda says the new Ridgeline will offer best-in-class acceleration performance. Further, the automaker expects the Ridgeline to approach the 1,600-pound payload capacity of competing trucks. If this truck matches the previous edition’s 5,000-pound towing capacity, then it’ll provide one more reason for people to consider one.

Multiple and Innovative Features

And if those reasons aren’t enough, the newest Ridgeline returns with one popular feature left intact — its lockable in-bed trunk. The latest design features a fully flat floor and includes a drain plug for easier cleaning and water release. The trunk is flush with the truck bed and has no impact on utility.

Another nifty feature is the Ridgeline’s dual-action tailgate. Not only does it fold down like a traditional tailgate, but it is also hinged on the left side. The side hinge feature makes it easier to climb up and in to the truck bed. It also improves ground access to the bed, which now measures 5 feet wide by 5 feet, 4 inches long. That means you get a full four feet between the wheel arches, ideal for hauling plywood or drywall.

Yet another innovative feature is the Ridgeline’s audio system, designed especially with tailgate celebrants in mind. The new in-bed audio system makes use of six exciters located in the bed walls — replacing conventional speakers — with the sound pumping out from the truck’s audio head unit. That makes for up to 540 watts of musical performance at the ready.

Room for Five

Honda claims the Ridgeline boasts the largest cabin amongst its competitors. With room for five, the pickup has the requisite bucket seats up front and a 60-40 split-folding seat in the rear. That rear seat can house golf clubs underneath or if more interior room is needed, then one or both sections can be raised.

What Honda offers on many of its other vehicles will become a Ridgeline staple too. Such features as push button start, available leather trim, three zone climate control, a full-color center meter, an 8-inch display audio system, and smartphone Android Auto and Google Play compatibility are among its many features. Trim levels and prices will be announced closer to the truck’s release date.

On the safety front, Honda anticipates the new Ridgeline will receive the highest safety scores from the recognized safety testing organizations, including the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. Lane departure warning, collision mitigation braking, forward collision warning, road departure mitigation, and lane keep assist are part of the Honda Sensing technologies.

Honda Ridgeline Potential

As for the Ridgeline’s potential, the new model should be well received. Mike Rabkin, President, From Car to Finish, expects the Ridgeline to do well much in the same way that the latest generation Pilot — introduced in 2016 — has succeeded.

Rabkin noted that one of the problems with the previous model was its long time on the market without a change, “which made it very long in the tooth.” Providing a more acceptable design, along with advanced technologies, an updated powertrain, and robust payload are other factors he believes are in the truck’s favor.

As for its unibody construction, seen by some as a detriment for the Ridgeline, Rabkin doesn’t consider the design choice a problem, “If it’s being used as a work truck, it’s payload capacity will only be improved, and being a work truck doesn’t necessarily require serious off road capability.”

And that’s the market segment where Honda will have to do battle with the likes of Toyota, Chevrolet, GMC, and Nissan this year. It is a segment, incidentally, enjoying a strong rebound since the Colorado and Canyon returned in late 2014.

All photos copyright American Honda.

King of the Pickup Trucks? Why, That Would be GM.

January 7, 2016 by admin Leave a Comment

GM sells more pickup trucks in the US than any other manufacturer.

2015 Chevrolet Silverado Extended Cab.

For the 39th consecutive year, the Ford F-Series was the best selling pickup truck model. For 2015, Ford sold 780,354 units of its full-size truck in the US, once again besting all comers. Ford likes to champion its F-150 model, but the blue oval isn’t the king of all pickup trucks. Instead, that title belongs to GM.

Indeed, GM also had a banner year selling its full-size pickup trucks, but its sales are split between two models: the Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra. Chevrolet registered 600,544 units sold for the Silverado, while GMC sold 224,139 copies of its Sierra. That’s a total of 824,683 full-size trucks, giving GM an edge of 44,329 units over Ford.

GM also sells a pair of midsize trucks in the Chevrolet Colorado and the GMC Canyon. Last year, Chevrolet dealers moved 84,430 copies of the Colorado, while GMC dealers sold 30,077 Canyons. That’s 114,507 midsize pickup trucks Ford doesn’t match as its Ranger was discontinued in 2011.

2015 Ford F-150 SuperCab

GM: King of the Pickup Trucks

Add the 44,329 full-size truck edge for GM to its 114,507 midsize truck sales and GM’s lead widens to 158,836. So, in 2015 GM sold 939,190 pickup trucks to Ford’s 780,354 total and although both are excellent numbers, GM is the indisputable king of pickup trucks.

Ram, like Ford, is another brand that does without a midsize pickup truck. The Ram (formerly Dodge) Dakota was also discontinued in 2011 and there is no replacement pending. Nevertheless, in 2015 Ram sold 451,116 units of its full-size truck, putting it in third-place among pickup truck retailers.

Fourth place belongs to Toyota whose midsize Tacoma pickup truck outsells its full-size Tundra model. In 2015, Toyota sold 179,562 copies of its Tacoma, good for first place in that segment. It also sold 118,880 Tundras, the fifth best selling full-size truck model. Together, the two models accounted for 298,442 Toyota pickup trucks sold last year.

2015 GMC Sierra Denali 2500 4WD Crew Cab

Bringing up the Rear: Nissan Titan

Nissan is another manufacturer where its best selling pickup truck is a midsize model. In 2015, Nissan sold 62,817 copies of its Frontier, finishing behind the Toyota Tacoma and Chevrolet Colorado, but ahead of the GMC Canyon. Its nearly invisible full-size Titan model registered only 12,140 units for the entire year, representing less than a week’s worth of sales for Ford.

Titan took the sixth and final place among the large trucks; Nissan’s truck sales totaled 74,957 units for 2015. The good news for Nissan is that an all-new Titan XD and Titan are rolling out this year. A new Frontier model is expected to follow in 2017.

2016 Nissan Titan XD Crew Cab

Upcoming Honda and Hyundai Offerings

One more manufacturer registered truck sales in 2015 and that was Honda. Last year, Honda sold 520 units of its discontinued Ridgeline, a midsize unibody model dropped in 2014. An all-new 2017 Honda Ridgeline debuts at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit next week.

In the short term, both Toyota and Nissan look to benefit from sales as each brand fields new models. Depending when the Ridgeline appears in Honda showrooms, it will once again register its share of sales, although its overall impact on the market may be minimal.

Hyundai also plans to jump in to the pickup truck market, by offering the Santa Cruz, a model that will compete directly with the Honda Ridgeline. Hyundai is expected to debut a production ready model at a major auto show this year, but we probably won’t see it until 2017. The Santa Cruz is more of a crossover than it is pickup truck, so it won’t be ideal for towing.

2016 Toyota Tacoma TRD.

See Also — US Auto Sales Set New Record in 2015

Photos copyright Auto Trends Magazine.

Ford Ranger and Bronco Now Expected to Return

November 11, 2015 by admin 2 Comments

Ford Ranger fans may get the vehicle they want after all. As a bonus, a Bronco SUV may be included.

Ford truck fans have been growing restless over the past year, particularly as GM reintroduced both the GMC Canyon and the Chevrolet Colorado, a pair of midsize pickup trucks. Both models have reignited a segment some had given up for the dead or at least had ceded to Toyota and Nissan.

Although the Ford F-150 certainly has retained its large following as it transitioned to an aluminum-based body, Ford Ranger fans are still looking for something smaller. Talk that the Ranger might make its return have surfaced in recent months especially as Ford contract talks with the UAW suggest that the Ranger and a Bronco SUV variant are in the works.

Michigan Assembly Plant

Ford Ranger The contract talks have been tentatively approved and certain details have been announced. For example, the union has already won higher wages for the rank and file, but they’re still looking to secure production for at least one of its manufacturing plants, particularly the Michigan Assembly Plant. That plant current produces the subcompact Focus and the hybrid C-MAX, models that will now be produced in Mexico.

The two-model exit means that other models will step in. And as Crain’s Detroit Business and the Detroit Free Press have reported, they’ll be the Ranger and Bronco, appearing in 2018 and 2020, respectively.

What isn’t clear is just what sort of Ranger and therefore what type of Bronco models we shall see. When Ford discontinued its compact Ranger in 2011, it replaced it with a larger, midsize model. The global Ranger as it is known is sold in most markets, but not in the US and Canada. Until recently, Ford had long insisted that the Ranger was gone for good and that the F-150 was its sole truck of choice. Unhappy Ranger fans have been voicing their displeasure with that decision.

Global or North American Ford Ranger

The global Ranger might also be an odd duck for the US market as it is of unibody construction, much like the Honda Ridgeline. Traditional pickup trucks have long maintained body-on-frame architecture (also known as ladder frame) as this has lower replacement costs and is better suited for towing.

Notably, the Ridgeline has never been a strong seller. Discontinued in 2014, a new Honda model is in the works, but it won’t do much to steal Chevrolet Colorado, Nissan Frontier, and Toyota Tacoma owners — or Ford Ranger owners for that matter — looking for a replacement truck.

An all-new model based on body-on-frame architecture exclusive to North America is still possible, despite the enormous cost for producing such a vehicle. Typically, launching a new platform costs at least $1 billion and unless Ford sees the certainty of strong sales, that cost would normally be considered prohibitive.

But by including a Bronco SUV in the mix, Ford gains a second model line. It would also go up against the lone remaining body-on-frame midsize SUV — the Toyota 4Runner, itself based on the Toyota Tacoma.

Cutting Costs, Transferring Models

The $1 billion plus cost of the Ford Ranger and Bronco will be partially offset by transferring much of the make’s car production to low-labor-cost Mexico. Besides the previously mentioned models, the Fusion will also be built exclusively in Mexico. The full-size Taurus may simply be canceled or Ford might do what was once unthinkable — build the Taurus in China and ship those vehicles here.

When will the Ranger and Bronco news become official? Likely once the rank and file has ratified the contract. A vote is scheduled this week and with increased pay and bonuses along with job retention guaranteed, overwhelming approval is likely.