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Contents
Pickup Truck Preview
See what’s new and upcoming in the world of pickups for 2015 ...pg 12
Tundra The Tundra gets a styling upgrade for 2014 ...pg 20
Colorado
Winter Tires The 2014 Trucks Plus Winter Tire Guide ...pg 25
Porsche
GM hopes to take a stranglehold on the mid-size pickup market ...pg 35
ALSO INSIDE
Yukon
Fresh Tracks---------------------------------------- 4 New Wheels: 2015 Ford SuperDuty------------42 New Wheels: Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV ----50 Off-Roading: Geiser Bros. Trophy Truck ------52
The Macan is destined to become one of Porsche’s biggest sellers ...pg 32
The 2015 GMC Yukon is chock full of upgrades ...pg 46
RVing 2015 Coachmen Brookstone BKF375FL ...pg 58
Off-Roading: Dirt Riot Series ------------------- 56 Off-Roading: Lone Wolf Wheeling ------------- 62 Gearing Up----------------------------------------66 Stuck Trucks--------------------------------------70
OCT / NOV 2014
Trucks Plus
FRESH TRACKS Volume 7, Issue No. 5 October/November 2014 Publisher/Editor: Dean Washington
Fastest Land Rover Ever Debuts at Pebble Beach
dean@rpmcanada.ca
Associate Publisher: David Symons david@rpmcanada.ca
Managing Editor Jordan Allan jordan@rpmcanada.ca Circulation: Brenda Washington brendaw@rpmcanada.ca Copy Editor: Gerry Frechette gerryf@rpmcanada.ca Sales & Marketing Elaine Fontaine elaine@rpmcanada.ca Contributing Writers/Photographers: Jordan Allan Howard J Elmer Gerry Frechette John Harwood Arch Linsao Russell Purcell Albert Vandervelde Benjamin Yong
MAILING ADDRESS: 2460 Kingsway Avenue, Port Coquitlam, BC Canada V3C 1T4 TELEPHONE: (604) 629-9669 FAX: (778) 285-2449 TOLL FREE TEL: 1-888-500-4591 EMAIL: info@rpmcanada.ca WEBSITE: www.rpmcanada.ca Trucks Plus is published six times per year by RPM Media Inc. Second Class Mailing Agreement #40050183
Trucks Plus
OCT / NOV 2014
Land Rover has debuted its fastest vehicle ever and the first to wear the new SVR badge which is to be worn by future Land Rover and Jaguar high performance models. The Range Rover Sport SVR was unveiled at an event at Pebble Beach, and thanks to the well-known 5.0-litre V8 supercharged engine, it pushes out an impressive 550 horsepower which allows it to go from 0-100 km/h in just 4.5 seconds. With an electronically limited top speed of 162 mph, it ran the Nurburgring Nordschleife in just 8 minutes and 14 seconds which is one of the fastest times ever recorded by a production SUV. In addition to the a powerful drivetrain, the Range Rover Sport SVR also sees some visual enhancements to further add to the performance-oriented nature of the vehicle, such as larger intakes on the front, and noticeable quad-tipped exhausts on the back. The SVR Sport uses an all-aluminum monocoque (a first in the segment) which reduces weight by 39 percent when compared to its predecessor, but without sacrificing any of its strength.
2015 GMC Sierra Adds Sporty Carbon Edition
GMC has recently added a new 2015 Sierra Carbon Edition to its lineup which adds a sporty and distinctive style to the mix. It’s based on the 2015 version of the Sierra and is offered in three different versions. First, the Sierra Carbon 22 Edition which is offered in both SLE double and crew cab models adds two carbon fibre appearance graphics on the hood, and another on the tailgate panel. Additional exterior features include a black painted grill, body-coloured door handles and mirror caps, four-inch tubular black assist steps, and unique 22-inch black alloy wheels. The Carbon 20 Edition of the Sierra is only offered as a Sierra SLE double cab and uses the same painted grill and carbon fibre appearance accents as the Carbon Edition and rides on 20-inch wheels. The standard Sierra Carbon Edition uses the Sierra 1500
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FRESH TRACKS double cab model and shares the same black-painted grill, carbon fibre graphics and body-coloured trim with the other Carbon Edition examples. All models are available with two- or four-wheel drive, while the 4.3-litre EcoTec3 V6 engine is standard with the more powerful 5.3-litre EcoTec3 V8 being optional.
2015 Toyota Tacoma Pricing and Details Announced
Ford to Offer Segment-First Seamless Sliding Rear Window
When the completely redesigned 2015 Ford F-150 hits showrooms, it will feature a segment-first seamless sliding rear window that conceals the vertical seams that mark the edges of regular sliding windows, creating a smooth opening when viewed from the outside.
The window, which was developed by global automotive supplier Magna International in association with Ford, sets a new trend for power sliding rear windows by reducing component needs and improving the overall functionality of the window. Most sliding rear windows consist of three pieces of glass; left and right panes that are immobile and the sliding portion in the middle which all are held together by a support structure that requires a few components. This new design uses only two pieces of glass and eliminates many of the components, creating a cleaner, more contemporary look. Not only does it improve the look, but the new design of the window uses a lighter control module which contributes to the overall weight savings which is a huge selling point of the next generation F-150.
2015 Porsche Cayenne Trucks Plus
OCT / NOV 2014
The 2015 Toyota Tacoma recently went on sale in Canada and now is available in 23 configurations and includes more standard features than ever before. Four-cylinder Tacoma models all feature a 2.7-litre engine that packs 159 horsepower and 180 lb-ft of torque, paired to the customer’s choice of five-speed manual transmission or fourspeed automatic. The four-banger models feature the four-person access cab design and a choice of two- or four-wheel drive drivetrains. If more power is what you’re after, the V6-powered Tacoma features a 4.0-litre V6 engine that delivers 236 horsepower and up to 266 lbft of torque combined with either a six-speed manual or five-speed automatic tranny with lock-up torque converter. All V6 models offer 4x4 drivetrains and a choice of the four-person access cab or fivepassenger Double Cab. In terms of new standard features for 2015, the Tacoma will feature six airbags plus Active Front Headrests with Whiplash Protection, tether anchor points for child seats and a tire pressure monitoring system.
Porsche Unveils Mid-Cycle Refresh for 2015 Cayenne
When the refreshed 2015 Porsche Cayenne hits showroom floors in late 2014, it will be available in four versions - Cayenne Diesel, Cayenne S, Cayenne Turbo and the all-new Cayenne S E-Hybrid which is the first plug-in hybrid in the premium SUV segment. The Cayenne S receives an all-new 3.6-litre twin-turbo V6 engine that
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FRESH TRACKS produces an impressive 420 horsepower and 406 lb-ft of torque. On the exterior side of things, the front end, front fenders, and hood are completely new, as are the airblades which are used to guide air into the intercoolers. The rear part of the Cayenne was also updated, as the layout of the rear lights now creates a 3D effect, and the horizontal lines were re-designed in order to give the Cayenne a fuller stance on the road. On the inside, the Cayenne receives a new steering wheel with standard shift paddles, and has a lot of its looks and functions based on the 918 Spyder. Additionally, the rear seats are now more comfortable and also have the option for seat ventilation. The all-new Cayenne S E-Hybrid features a lithium-ion traction battery which enables pure electric driving. The power of the electric motor is now at 95 horsepower which can get you up to 78 mph (126 km/h) on pure electric power. When combined with the 3.0-litre supercharged V6 gas engine, the system has a total power of 416 horsepower.
the previous model. The new Red Vapor special edition package brings in unique exterior and interior styling cues to enhance the performance oriented looks of the Grand Cherokee SRT and comes available in three colours - Redline Red Pearl Clear Coat, Brilliant Black Crystal Pearl Coat and Bright White Clear Coat.
GM Admits to Stripping Certain Features When Calculating Payload Numbers
You may recall Ford got into a little trouble a few years back by admitting they strip certain features off their pickup trucks in order to calculate the highest payload capacity possible. When this happened, both General Motors and Ram denied that they would do anything of the sort. Now, according to a report from Automotive News, GM
2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT Gets Power Boost As Well as a Few New Features
Jeep has unveiled the 2015 edition of the Grand Cherokee SRT and with it comes a power boost, a Red Vapor special edition package and the addition of Active Noise Canceling (ANC) technology. On the power side of things, the Grand Cherokee SRT receives a gain
has admitted that they do remove the rear bumper and swap out to an optional wheel choice on some models if it helps shed some weight, which would therefore increase the payload rating. These deletions are justified to GM by the fact that those delete options could be ordered by a customer. Some have suggested that perhaps the only way of keeping truck makers honest when calculating these types of things is to have a set of specific rules that each one has to abide by. of five horsepower and five lb-ft of torque out of its 6.4-litre Hemi V8 engine, paired to an eight-speed automatic. This allows the large SUV to go from 0-60 mph in just 4.8 seconds and clock in an impressive quarter-mile time in the mid 13s. Towing capacity of the 2015 model is rated at 7,200 lb. (3,266 kg) which is a 44 percent increase over
2015 Toyota Tundra TRD Pro Trucks Plus
OCT / NOV 2014
Toyota Tundra to Ditch V6 Engine Option for 2015 Model Year
For the 2015 model year, Toyota has decided to ditch the V6 engine option in the Tundra, opting to make the 4.6-litre iForce V8, which pushes out 310 horsepower and 327 lb-ft of torque, the standard
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engine. The popular 5.7-litre iForce V8 that doles out 381 horsepower with 401 lb-ft of torque will still be available, with both being paired to a six-speed electronically-controlled automatic transmission. On top of that, Toyota will be offering a TRD Pro off-road model for 2015 which brings a special blackout grille, TRD Pro bed panel stamping, a skid plate, matte satin black badges and black headlight bezels. It will feature 18-inch TRD black alloy wheels wrapped in off-road tires, plus a TRD dual exhaust system that’s sure to get a deep sound out of the 5.7-litre V8 engine. For the redesign in 2014, the Tundra became the first truck to have a standard back-up camera, and now Toyota is further stepping up the safety bar by making Blind Spot Monitoring with Rear Cross Traffic Alert available on some models.
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Ram Begins Production of 2015 Heavy Duty Models
Ram has recently begun production of the 2015 Heavy Duty model and with it comes claims of best-in-class power, towing capacity and payload capacity. The popular 6.7-litre I6 Cummins turbodiesel engine now makes 15 more lb-ft. of torque, bringing the total number up to a whopping 865 lb-ft. The 3500 model continues to lead in towing capacity at 13,608 kg (30,000 lb) and now is the leader in payload with a capacity of 3,352 kg (7,390 lb). Other engine options for 2015 include the standard 5.7-litre Hemi V8 engine, as well as the 6.4-litre Hemi V8 that is able to deliver best-in-class torque among pickups with gasoline engines. All models of 2015 Ram HD trucks feature frames built with high-strength 50,000 psi steel, including eight cross members, hydro-formed main rails and fully boxed rear rails for maximum strength. On the suspension side of things, the Ram 2500 borrows the five-link coil rear suspension that is made to deliver exceptional ride and handling when either loaded or unloaded. Additional new features include a cargo camera, power rear sliding window, central locking, and SmartBeam headlamps, just to name a few.
Sales of Automotive Specialty Equipment Products Reaches $33 Billion for 2013
2014 TOYOTA TUNDRA
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OCT / NOV 2014
It was announced recently that sales of automotive specialty equipment products reached $33 billion in 2013, which is a 6.7-percent increase over the previous year, and marks the fourth consecutive year of growth, according to the SEMA Annual Market Study. Sales of street performance products accounted for 26 percent of sales, which was greatly helped by the renewed focus on performance models by OE manufacturers such as Scion FR-S, Ford Mustang, and Dodge Challenger. Another market that experienced a boost in sales was light trucks, which grew 8 percent in 2013 and posted its best sales since 2007. New truck sales have continued to climb over the years, helped in large part by the major redesigns of several popular models. Another aspect of why the light truck market has seen continued growth is the SUV/CUV market, which allows aftermarket part manufacturers to diversify and expand their offerings. Due to the overall growth of the aftermarket parts market, the 2014 SEMA Show is shaping up to be the biggest yet, as the attendance is trending upward and attendees will see more exhibitors and products than ever before..
NEW WHEELS
2015 Pickup Truck Preview
Story by Howard J Elmer, photos courtesy of the manufacturers
U
nless you’ve been living an unplugged life in a cave somewhere, you know that Ford is bringing the all-aluminum F-150 to market in 2015. And while this first-of-its-kind pickup is making waves (while creating headlines), it really isn’t the big news story for the coming model year. That distinction falls to the Heavy Duty pickups, primarily because the war of the heavyweights continues to rage. Ford and Ram have routinely taken pot shots at each other in the media, constantly trying to one up the other. Ford has tried to pass off its F-450 as a one-ton truck so as to claim the top towing capacity truck, while Ram just recalibrated its 6.7litre Cummins diesel to squeeze out 15 more lb-ft of torque – to just edge out Ford’s Power Stroke. GM, while opting out of this King-of-the-Hill childishness, may well come out with top honours anyway, for its new, completely integrated electronic system that controls a towed load like never before. What follows is a quick hit of what 2015 is bringing down in trucks. 2015 Ram Truck HD 2500 and 3500 & PowerWagon 2014 saw the Ram HD add upgrades to an already good truck.
2015 Ram HD 3500 12 Trucks Plus
OCT / NOV 2014
This comes on the heels of the massive jump to a top tow rating of 30,000 lb, which ignited the war with Ford. The fishy part of this announcement was the lack of a SAE J2807 certification. This testing formula for determining tow ratings was accepted by
Ram PowerWagon all manufacturers – but then not used. So, who was really telling the truth? Well, that is what 2015 finally brings us - transparent usage of the new SAE testing methods by all the builders. Now, this has not ended the swaggering bravado when it comes to who can tow what – it just makes it more believable. For 2015, Ram (which has been constantly updating and improving year in and year out) has added air suspension to 2500 and 3500 models. Also offered are a five-link coil rear suspension on the 2500 and a new integrated fifth-wheel/gooseneck hitch from the factory. Alternators are improved, 18- and 20-inch wheel packages are offered and the Ram PowerWagon is re-released with an all-new 6.4-litre Hemi V8 under the hood. This gas engine is now also available in the HD trucks. By the numbers, for 2015, Ram has the best-in-class torque in its diesel engine
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Ford’s PR machine has been churning out pre-launch information on the aluminum-body F-150 since last year. That’s a long run-up,
but then, there is a lot to show off. First, yes the body and box are all aluminum alloy. For those of us living in the rust belt, this alone is good news, but the truck also saves 317 kg of weight over a steel body, and that will equal fuel savings. Aluminum is also (pound for pound) stronger than steel, and also less prone to dents, a feature that will be welcomed in the cargo bed. The frame on the new truck, though, is still all-steel, though it, too, is lighter than the previous model by utilizing high-strength steel (70 percent now), which is more durable yet thinner. Under the hood, Ford will continue to offer the veteran 5.0-litre V8 and the 3.5-litre EcoBoost V6 engines. New for 2015, though, is a third option - a 2.7-litre EcoBoost V6. This displacement should have obvious fuel economy benefits. As a curious side note, the new styling on the 2015 F-150 employs two heritage design cues, a headlamp shape and horse collar grille surround that speaks to the first 1948 Ford F-1.
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NEW WHEELS 2015 Chevrolet Silverado 3500 HD
2015 GMC Sierra 2500/3500 HD & Chevrolet Silverado 2500/3500 HD For the coming year, these twins (both of which are already good HD trucks) finally get an inside update to match its technical prowess. Borrowing from the interior of the new 2014 1500-series, the HDs get quieter inside and are now very well appointed. In addition, all its screens, electronics, buttons and controls are updated. However, the single greatest leap in technology is invisible, as it’s found in the software programming of the computer. The best description of this new system is a Fully Integrated Cruise Control. Using the cruise control while towing now takes the safety and stability systems and knits them together with the ABS, traction control, sway control and exhaust brake. The effective outcome is that the truck holds its set speed uphill as well as downhill. The driver never need touch the brakes – the computer maintains speed using exhaust, disc brakes and transmission automatically. Very slick and currently one-of-a-kind. Like the 1500s, the new HDs also get 6.5- and 8-foot boxes with standard CornerStep bumpers, EZ Lift & Lower tailgates, and inbox lighting.
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2015 Ford SuperDuty F-250 – F-450 For 2015, what Super Duty is showing off is the new second generation of the Power Stroke diesel. What’s changed (and these are more refinements than outright changes) are the placement and size of the turbocharger, and the engine block material. The first is larger and more responsive and the second is lighter and
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more wear-resistant. The net results of these changes are new output numbers for the 6.7-litre turbo-diesel of 440 hp and 860 lb-ft of torque. (Which, of course, Ram felt the need to beat by a scant 5 lb-ft of torque). So, with more power, Ford of course has pushed up its payload and towing numbers, the most important
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one of which is a max fifth wheel/gooseneck rating of 31,200 lb that beats out the current heavyweight leader – Ram. However this is on the F-450, so it’s hardly apples to apples with Ram’s 3500. What Ford is not saying right now (but is obvious to me) is that many of these changes were made to accommodate the coming F-650 and F-750. This re-entry into the larger commercial market will be happening in the next year and the Power Stroke in these Class 6 & 7 trucks will require (and get) the hp and torque that is now being bestowed on F-250 thru F-450. Also new for 2015 is a standard gas engine available in the F-250 and F-350, the 6.2-litre V8. This powerplant makes 385 hp & 405 lb-ft of torque. Certainly power enough, and a cash savings for low-mileage users who can’t justify the extra cost of the diesel.
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Trucks Plus 17
NEW WHEELS
Big Rig The 2014 Toyota Tundra CrewMax Platinum
Story and photos by Russell Purcell
T
oyota has revised the styling of its full-size Tundra pickup for 2014 in an effort to keep up with the likes of its main rivals, Ford, General Motors and Ram. Those familiar with Toyota’s big rig will notice substantial revisions inside and out.
The dash and console are well-designed and all gauges and switchgear fall readily to both hand and eye. Seating is for five adults, and as the truck is extra wide, the passenger compartment proved very spacious. There are lots of grab handles on hand for when the going gets bumpy, and storage cubbies seemed to be everywhere. Heavy rubber floor liners help keep dirty boots from making too much of a mess, and oversized weather stripping does an excellent job of keeping dirt, dust and water from migrating into the cabin. The Toyota catalogue now features ten Tundra models – based on SR, SR5, Limited and Platinum grades – and a total of 30 available configurations to choose from.
The outgoing Tundra looked like a large truck, but the new bodywork on the 2014 model makes it look even larger. There are more aggressive fender flares and a bold Tundra badge is emblazoned across the tailgate. Up front, this rolling monster sports a bold new grille design that is much larger in size than that of the previous model, and with the amount of chrome it carries, it looks like a custom piece. The truck’s enormous hood is perched a little higher as it now incorporates a more pronounced air intake. Larger headlamps have been added to all Tundra models, but the ones fitted to the Platinum and new western-themed 1794 Edition also incorporate LED daytime running lights. The design and layout of the Tundra’s interior is decidedly upmarket, especially on the Platinum edition which has been outfitted with all the niceties one would expect in a near-$60,000 truck. This includes luxurious leather seating, a sweet sounding JBL audio system, dualzone climate control, and a level of fit-and-finish unexpected in a pickup truck. Highlights from the long list of standard safety equipment include Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Active Traction Control (A-TRAC), Trailer Sway Control, Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA), tire-pressure monitor, rear view camera, and a Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert (RCTA). 20 Trucks Plus
OCT / NOV 2014
There are still two gasoline-fed V8 engine offerings available, with the 4.6-litre i-Force variant being the standard one. This smoothoperating engine produces 310 horsepower and a healthy 327 pound-feet of torque. My test vehicle was a fully-loaded Tundra Platinum which features the 5.7-litre i-ForceV8 under the hood. This potent powerplant delivers 381 horsepower and 401 lb-ft of torque to the ground, and proved to be a strong performer under all conditions.
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There are no major revisions to the drivetrain for 2014, but it is rumoured that a Cummins diesel engine option will arrive for 2016. This news doesn’t help you if you need a truck now, but a short term lease may be a consideration if you like the sounds of a diesel down the road. The driving experience is very un-truck-like. This is due to the fact that the Tundra’s long wheelbase and well-sorted suspension deliver a surprisingly refined ride both on road and off. The Tundra’s suspension setup features a double wishbone-type up front, and beefy multi-leaf springs in the rear, both fitted with heavy-duty gas shock absorbers.
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Handling was impressive for such a large vehicle, and the wide-rimmed, leatherwrapped steering wheel allowed for very precise driver inputs whether commuting down the highway or tearing up a gravel trail. Outward visibility is hampered due to the width and height of this truck, especially when navigating a city lane or narrow trail, but tall windows, huge side mirrors and a rear camera are on hand to reduce your stress.
Power delivery is controlled and consistent, and I appreciated the fact that I always had access to a healthy reserve of power when the road became slippery, or I found the need to clamber over an obstacle.
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When you venture off-road, the driver can select either a high- or low-range setting using Toyota’s One-Touch 4WD system. While simple to use, the system still requires you to come to a complete stop and shift into neutral before letting you engage either four-wheel drive setting.
The Tundra tackled steep grades with ease when I engaged the fourwheel drive system’s low-range setting, and wheel slippage was kept to a minimum by the Automatic Limited Slip Differential. The Tundra’s capable suspension made short work of small rocks, shallow potholes and light road debris, and the damp mud surface of the road to my lakeside retreat was no match for the One-Touch 4WD system. Gravel roads were rendered smooth by the quick reaction of the springs and shocks, and the wheel hop usually associated with travelling at speed in an unloaded pickup truck seemed non-existent in the Tundra. Toyota has made the Tundra a solid truck, and an excellent all-round performer. Add to this the benefit of Toyota’s reputation for legendary reliability, and the Tundra takes its place high on the Trucks to Consider List.
SPECIFICATIONS: Base price (MSRP): ........................................................$53,700 Price as tested: ..........................................................$55,524.25 Type: ....................................Front-engine, 4WD, full-size pickup Engine: . ...............................5.7L i-FORCE, DOHC, 32-valve V8 Power: .........................................................381 hp @ 5,600 rpm Torque (lb-ft): . ...........................................401 lb-ft @ 3,600 rpm Transmission: . ...............................................6-Speed automatic Brakes: ................................................Four-wheel disc with ABS Fuel consumption (L/100km): ................. City 16.3L; Hwy 11.9 L
24 Trucks Plus
OCT / NOV 2014
WINTER TIRE GUIDE Not nearly all. Not even anywhere close to all. They’re so much more than that. Which is why, from now on, you’re not going to call them snow tires. You’re going to call them ‘winter tires.’ See what I did there? Let that sink in for a minute. Seriously, just think about it. If you start thinking of them as winter tires as opposed to just snow tires, it completely changes the way you think of them, and probably also changes your opinion on the need for them in a city that doesn’t see a whole lot of snow (in comparison to some of our neighbours to the north and to the east).
Winter Tire Guide Story by Arch Linsao, photos courtesy of the manufacturers
F
or all you ‘Westcoasters’...
Yes, that’s right. This year’s edition of my winter-tire-rant is dedicated to my fellow Westcoasters. And in particular, my beloved Vancouverites. Those who seem to find enjoyment in making me cringe with those ear piercing words, “Oh, we live in Vancouver, it barely ever snows here. We don’t need snow tires.” These words that I hear every year have pretty much become the bane of my existence. So here is how I respond. Firstly, I’m going to start by changing what you call these ever-soimportant pieces of rubber. And by changing what you call them, I’m going to change the way you think about them. And by changing the way you think about them, I will make you eat those dreaded words. And at some point in that process, I’ll have blown your mind. Okay, are you ready? Wait for it... stop calling them ‘snow tires.’ It’s as simple as that. If you think of them as just snow tires, you’re missing the whole point. Yes, they do quite well in the snow. But that’s not all.
And why should you think of them as winter tires? Well that’s because that’s exactly what they are. Tires meant for use during the winter. Not only in the snowy winter, but ALL WINTER. They’re meant to be used during winter... when it’s cold. Too cold for the regular all-season tire or summer tire that hardens up and turns into a hockey puck in the winter. They’re designed to withstand those cold temperatures and stay soft and flexible, giving you traction when it’s cold... when it’s wet... when it’s icy... when it’s slushy... and yes, when it’s snowy. I realize we don’t get a lot of snow in the lower mainland, but we sure as heck get all the other things I just listed. And we need winter tires specifically for those conditions. In all honesty, it’s worse here with the lack of snow because of how wet it is and how cold it gets. The combination of wet weather and freezing temperatures doesn’t always result in snow, but is surely does result in slippery ice. And without winter tires, you don’t have a chance. I don’t care how good of a driver you are, or how good your vehicle’s all-wheel drive system is, you don’t have a chance. It doesn’t take much. Just one small patch of ice will send you (or one of the cars around you) in a direction you didn’t intend to go. Just one small patch of ice will prevent you (or one of the cars around you) from stopping when you need to. With winter tires, you’ve got that much more control, that much more stopping power, that much more confidence, and that much more peace of mind. So there you have it. Changing one word in your vocabulary can change the way you look at tires. Get rid of the ‘snow’ in front of tires and replace it to ‘winter.’ Now that changes the whole definition from something you don’t think you need, to something you can’t imagine not having.
Featured: Winter Slalom KSi
State-of-the-art looks and the ability to take you where you want to go throughout the winter make the BFGoodrich® Winter Slalom® KSI Key Snow & Ice the RIGHT tire for all types of cold weather adventures. The KSI features winter regenerating compounds, which are micro-pores that provide grip mechanism for continued traction on snow and ice. The optimized sipe configuration offers better block stability for improved handling and wear, plus enhanced cornering and braking on snow, ice, slush, wet and dry roads. More hydroplaning resistance and deep snow traction comes from full lateral grooves and increased tread voids. BFG’s Etec System, or equal tension containment system, is available on most sizes which basically provides a consistent footprint and maximum tread contact under any speed, giving you better control on the road no matter what the weather. OCT / NOV 2014
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WINTER TIRE GUIDE Featured: Blizzak DM-V1
The Blizzak DM-V1 stands out from other winter tires due to its versatility. The new Tube Multi-Cell and NanoPro-Tech rubber compound help improve snow, ice, wet and dry performance by making the tire more flexible to changes in conditions. The centre multi-z tread pattern and 3D sipes improve water drainage, thus increasing biting edges and enhancing snow, ice and wet traction. Continuous lugs also enhance snow traction and water evacuation.
Featured: ExtremeWinterContact
Performing superbly on dry and wet pavement in cold temperatures, the ExtremeWinterContact is built to conquer the road with confidence - even in the coldest winter weathers. Its compact outside tread with elevated lateral grooves and inclined longitudinal grooves provides improved dry handling and the high sipe density and highly flexible compound allow for swift removal of water in wet conditions and reduced braking distances in snow and ice. Maximum void and grip edges in the centre contact patch with traction ridges within the grooves allow for excellent traction and braking in the snow.
Featured: Grandtrek WT M3
Dunlop winter tires feature specialized tread compounds and advanced tread designs that help provide superior traction on ice, slush and snow. The Grandtrek WT M3 is a winter tire for luxury SUVs. Highperformance winter traction helps provide powerful grip in all weather conditions. Directional tread pattern with high density sipes helps enhance handling in winter conditions. Lateral zigzag sipes and independent tread blocks help bite through ice and snow. An increased contact patch helps enhance the tire’s ice grip and promote long tread life. Featured: Winterforce UV
The Firestone Winterforce UV is “siped and studdable” for good winter performance. Its directional, computermodelled tread design helps to deliver confident snow, wet and ice traction. The Firestone Winterforce is designed to deliver a quiet and comfortable ride to get you to your destination regardless of the weather conditions. Its directional tread pattern optimizes wet and dry performance and its high sipe density three-dimensional tread pattern makes for confident snow, ice and wet traction. Also being pinned for standard studs provides additional traction potential for severe conditions. The Firestone Winterforce UV is designed for light trucks, SUVs and CUVs to deliver a quiet and comfortable ride to get you to your destination - regardless of the weather conditions. Featured: Altimax Arctic
The Altimax Arctic has unique grooves and sipes, combined with a modern compound, offering high performance at low temperatures. Its innovative Quad-Tech Smart Tire Technology provides improved handling and exceptional traction on snow and ice. It also features a multi-angle sipe system with 270 degrees of sipes and biting edges that maximizes traction in any direction of travel. The directional tread pattern with its centre stability rib provides enhanced straight-line stability and water evacuation, while the Reactive Contour Technology reacts to different road conditions to maintain optimum contact with the road surfaces. And of course, its silica tread composite allows for cold-weather flexibility for increased snow and ice performance. 26 Trucks Plus
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The Best Tires For The Worst Days
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Great tires – great price With TOYO winter tires you can rest assured you’re driving on cutting-edge technology, designed to handle any cold weather condition. Plus, with this limited time offer, you’ll also know you drove a good deal. Ask your TOYO Dealer for details. TOYO TIRES …engineered for the real world. R E BATE O FFE R E N DS D ECE M B E R 15TH , 2014
toyotires.ca
WINTER TIRE GUIDE Featured: Ultra Grip Ice WRT LT / SUV
Goodyear improves on its already impressive winter lineup of the Ultra Grip SUV with the Ultra Grip Ice WRT (Winter Reactive Technology) SUV and WRT LT. The WRT Series is available from commuter cars to light trucks and SUVs and crossovers, featuring two-dimensional blades in the centre zone which offer enhanced stopping and starting power on snow and ice, and three-dimensional tread lock technology blades in the shoulder zone which offer enhanced wet and winter traction as they lock together for confident grip in turns. The directional tread pattern helps channel water and slush away from the tire for enhanced winter traction and handling. Featured: I*Pike RW11
Hankook continues to be a strong force in the winter tire market, offering a great lineup of tires that are comparable with many premium manufacturers but at a fraction of the cost. The i*Pike RW11 is a premium studdable winter SUV/Light Truck tire designed for excellent traction on snow and ice. i*Pike RW11 takes the lead in stronger braking power and superior traction in snow conditions. More powerful driving and braking forces will give you confidence on wet or frozen roads. The winter stud tire for light trucks and SUV vehicles that provides the best traction and braking performance on snowy and icy roads, maximized snow traction implemented with the Edge Block at centre, and enhanced ice performance with the pin arrangement optimized through computer simulation. Featured: I’Zen RV Stud KC16
Weather or not, here you come in the I’Zen RV Stud KC16. This tire features cross-linked sipes to maximize traction and steering precision, five wide channel grooves to improve water evacuation for wet roads, and saw blade sipes to maximize snow and ice performance.
Featured: Latitude Alpin LA2
Designed for today’s CUV and SUVs, the MICHELIN® Latitude® Alpin® LA2 tires provide you with winter safety and mobility, winter after winter. A new generation formula of full silica-based rubber Helio Compound 3G, allows the MICHELIN® Latitude® Alpin® LA2 tire to remain flexible in low temperatures for better winter performance. 3-D Stabiligrip Technology™ with variable geometry sipes, rigid tread block reinforcement, adding firmness for more precise and better handling. MICHELIN® Comfort Control Technology™ helps deliver one of the most comfortable rides in the industry by using computer-optimized design and precision manufacturing to offer greatly reduced vibrations and road noise, plus the longevity you expect from Michelin®. MaxTouch Construction combined with the interlocking action of Michelin’s siping technology deliver impressively long wear life by providing exceptional tread block rigidity while optimizing the tire’s contact with the road during acceleration, braking and cornering.
Featured: Winguard WinSpike SUV
The Winguard Winspike SUV tires from Nexen are molded for installing studs that are able to dig into snow or ice for better traction on those hazardous surfaces. They have an optimized arrangement of sipes and block rigidity to maximize handling and traction on ice in combination with the v-shaped tread pattern. Noise is often a problem with studded tires, but Nexen addresses this by the calculated placement of twelve multi-random stud lines. 28 Trucks Plus
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BFGoodrichCanada
WELCOME TO PLAYGROUND™
EARTH . 70
$
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WITH THE PURCHASE OF 4 BFGOODRICH® LIGHT TRUCK TIRES.
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Whether you need tires that can take a pounding over rough ground or offer exceptional traction and handling, BFGoodrich® tires will take you to the things you love to do. They’re your ticket to Playground Earth™. Ask your dealer how you can take control with BFGoodrich® tires, and get the driving performance you can count on. Eligible light truck tires: Long Trail T/A® Tour, Radial Long Trail T/A®, Rugged Terrain T/A®, Rugged Trail T/A®, All-Terrain T/A® KO, All-Terrain T/A® KO2, Mud-Terrain T/A® KM2, Mud-Terrain T/A® KM, Commercial T/A® All-Season, Commercial T/A® Traction and Krawler T/A® KX. TM
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© 2014 MNA(C)I. All rights reserved.
TM
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WITH THE PURCHASE OF 4 BFGOODRICH® PASSENGER TIRES.
October 6 to December 15, 2014. See claim form for details.
October 6 to December 15, 2014. See claim form for details.
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Winter Slalom® KSI
Advantage™ T/A®
Mud-Terrain™ T/A® KM2
All-Terrain T/A® KO2
WINTER TIRE GUIDE Featured: Exo Grappler AWT
The brand-new Exo Grappler AWT (All Weather Traction) tire is made to meet the all-weather demands that are often demanded of off-road truck enthusiasts. Whether your journey takes you through off-road trails, gravel, or the worst of winter conditions, the Exo Grappler is built for four seasons of 4x4ing. The tires feature an all-new chip-resistant all-weather compound, three-ply sidewall construction, and large thick sidewall lugs. The Exo Grappler AWT provides the ultimate armour to combat all of the elements.
Featured: Scorpion Winter
Scorpion Winter has been designed to fit modern SUVs and CUVs, with a special focus on the high-end segment, and provides an important contribution to the drivers’ safety as it guarantees maximum stability and control in snow, wet and dry conditions. Featuring best-in-class performance on snow (braking, handling and traction), excellent braking and handling (in wet and dry conditions at low temperatures) and lower noise and rolling resistance, the Scorpion Winter was rated highest overall in terms of braking, handling, traction in snow conditions, compared with its main competitors. A directional and symmetrical tread pattern, modular block geometry, enhanced sipe layout and circumferential grooves allow this tire to achieve such a high rating. Featured: Open Country C/T
The Toyo Open Country C/T light truck tire is designed for on-off road winter driving conditions, combining winter performance with commercial durability and traction. The Open Country C/T delivers optimum traction in all off-road conditions including dirt, gravel, mud and snow, while providing a quiet, comfortable highway ride. The tire features a brand new compound that balances cut/chip resistance with improved winter performance. This was achieved without sacrificing durability, tread life and wet/dry handling, while delivering a quiet, comfortable ride that you would not expect from an all-terrain light truck tire. Featured: Laredo HD/T
The Laredo HD/T gives you serious on- and off-road traction in the winter for long-lasting durability. Aggressive tread design. Improved traction on ice is achieved through heavy-duty DuraShield construction. Studdable shoulder design (size #16 studs, where permitted by law) gives you extra traction in extreme conditions. The Uniroyal Laredo HD/T tire has been designed specifically for use in cold weather and severe snow conditions, certified by the marking of the pictograph of a mountain with a snowflake on it.
Featured: iceGUARD iG51v
The new iG51v is the latest addition to Yokohama’s iceGUARD family line. Designed with the latest developments in winter tire technology, such as micro diagonal slush and lightning grooves, 3D sipes, and a high-density reinforced compound, this tire has an aggressive performance-oriented tread pattern, making it ideal for Canadian winter driving conditions. The tire’s unique compound and construction delivers not only great handling but also unexpected long term durability, more even tire wear and improved fuel consumption. 30 Trucks Plus
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NEW WHEELS
Entering the Game
Porsche joins the mid-size crossover segment with the Macan Story and photos by Gerry Frechette
W
ith all the action in the mid-size crossover segment, Porsche was one of the last manufacturers to finally bring one to market. It comes as no surprise that the famous German sports car manufacturer would build the sportiest, fastest and most expensive such vehicle, because that is just what the Macan Turbo is.
with 340 horsepower, while the Turbo gets a 3.6 with 400 horses. The latter was our test subject. These days, 400 hp doesn’t sound like a lot in a two-ton vehicle, but Porsche has a way of building cars that maximize every bit of power, and the Macan Turbo certainly does that. First off, there is the 7-speed PDK twin-clutch manumatic transmission, which is found across the Porsche range, and it performs as expected – smoothly and quickly, making one not regret the absence of a full manual box. Power is sent to all four wheels, and Porsche’s system drives the rear wheels primarily, enhancing the overall performance of the Macan, while the front wheels are given as much torque as the system determines is needed. The steering, while electric, is linear and direct in the Porsche tradition. The brakes...well, what can you say, this is a Porsche, and the 14-inch rotors clamped by six-piston calipers are more than most drivers will ever need. The optional air suspension provides a great combination of ride and handling, and the ability to lower the body at speed, or raise it for off-road work.
The recipe for its creation sees a bit of the Audi Q5 platform on which it is based, the experience of building the Cayenne SUV for a dozen years, and of course, the soul of one of the world’s most revered sports cars, the 911. The Macan comes in two flavours for the moment, the S and the Turbo. Both are powered by a twin-turbo V6 based on the family V8 found in Cayenne and Panamera. The base S is a 3.0-litre unit 32 Trucks Plus
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NEW WHEELS $104,665. The most expensive option, and the one which does the most to make the Macan an object of vehicular lust at first glance, are the imposing 21-inch wheels from the 911 Turbo. The other significant options of a technological nature include Porsche Torque Vectoring Plus, which is said to reduce understeer to virtually nothing at the limit, and the Sport Chrono Package, familiar to Porsche enthusiasts, and the key to transforming the Macan into an SUV you can drive all day on a track. The throttle, damping, steering, transmission and drivetrain are all given an energy jolt, transforming the feel of the car. About the only practical aspect of the Macan, besides the usefulness of AWD in low-traction situations, is the rear cargo compartment. With the rear seats up, the space Yes, we did say off-road. We didn’t do any of it, unfortunately, but reports say that the Macan is reasonably competent, given its wide performance rubber. Inside, those familiar with any other Porsche model will feel right at home, as the cockpit has the same wide centre console with dozens of buttons that looks like it was lifted from an airliner. The seats are adjustable in 18 directions, so you will find a comfortable position. They are mounted lower in the car than other SUVs, primarily because the roofline is inches lower than any other SUV. All Porsches, while undoubtedly well-equipped as base models, are renowned for having many expensive options available. Our tester had no shortage of them, raising the already daunting base price from $82,200 to a lofty
OCT / NOV 2014
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NEW WHEELS back there is noticeably less than other mid-size SUVs, even the Audi Q5 on which the Macan is based. Blame the lower roof and more-sloped rear window. Those seats fold down, of course, yielding more room. Driving the Macan Turbo, you are hard-pressed to remember you are driving an SUV, so competent it is on the road. It is fast, for one thing. Porsche’s stopwatches claim a 0-to-100 km/h run in 4.8 seconds, and it is capable of speeds in excess of 260 km/h.
SPECIFICATIONS: MSRP: . .........................................................................$82,200 Price as tested: ...........................................................$104,665 Vehicle Layout: ...................................Front engine, AWD CUV Engine: . ............................. 3.6L DOHC 24-valve twin-turbo V6 Transmission: . ................................... 7-speed PDK twin-clutch Power: . ...........................................................................400 hp Torque: ..........................................406 lb-ft @ 1,350-4,500 rpm Brakes: . ..............................4-wheel ventilated disc, ABS, EBD Curb Weight: ................................................................ 1,925 kg Fuel Efficiency: (L/100 km, city/hwy) ..........................14.2/10.1 and four-cylinder gas models. But no current Porsche combines performance, luxury, style and utility quite like the Macan Turbo does. It is the Porsche for enthusiasts who might not have ever dreamed of owning a crossover SUV, and it is destined to become the marque’s biggest seller.
The Macan S, with 60 fewer horsepower, gives up very little of the Turbo’s quickness – 0-to-100 in 5.4 seconds – but costs a significant $28,000 less in base price. So, the Porsche enthusiast now has another option, and if he or she can only have one vehicle, the Macan Turbo is the decathlete of the group that does the most things well. He/she can have even more performance, for more money, in a Cayman or 911. More room and better efficiency in a Cayenne diesel or hybrid. Better efficiency at a lower price in the rumoured upcoming V6 diesel
34 Trucks Plus
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NEW WHEELS
Becoming a Benchmark The all-new 2015 Chevrolet Colorado/GMC Canyon Story and photos by Jordan Allan
O
ver the past few years, the mid-size pickup truck market has become almost a non-factor here in North America with the only current offerings being the Toyota Tacoma and Nissan Frontier, both of which have remained relatively unchanged for the better part of a decade. A few years ago, it seemed almost every manufacturer had an offering in this segment, but due in large part to the growth of the SUV/CUV markets over the years, most have done away with mid-size pickups. General Motors obviously saw this as an opportunity, as they have decided to bring back the Chevrolet Colorado/GMC Canyon for 2015 after a three-year hiatus. During a recent media event in Del Mar, California, I had the opportunity to spend plenty of time behind the wheel of both vehicles.
twins in every way, the front ends do look quite a bit different from each other and if I had to choose I would go with the boxier Canyon’s looks over the Colorado. The interiors of the mid-size twins are again very reminiscent of the Silverado/Sierra full-size models, and feature a clean look that makes controlling just about anything a breeze. An available 8-inch centre-mounted touch screen has a great interface that won’t take long to figure out, plus many great new technology features such as Siri Eyes Free for iPhone users, and segment-first 4G LTE Wi-Fi Hotspot connectivity that allows you to connect up to seven devices. The climate controls all boast large knobs and simple buttons to ensure your eyes won’t be off the road long for something as simple as turning the fan down. The driver’s chair seats you in a high-up comfortable position, there are great sightlines all around, and the back seat has enough leg- and headroom for an adult to sit comfortably for a long period of time. Another thing about the interior that cannot be left out is the noise reduction features that GM added in order to make sure they were
For the exterior, GM decided to go with the “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it” mantra, and based many of the styling cues from the very popular current generation Silverado/Sierra full-size pickups. That isn’t to say these are the same trucks on a smaller scale, but the similarities are impossible to ignore, especially in the rear. Many features of the new exterior were engineered to provide the Colorado/Canyon with world-class aerodynamics, such as active air shutters located under the grill that are designed to close when high speeds are reached in order to reduce drag and improve fuel economy. Although the trucks are nearly OCT / NOV 2014
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bringing these new pickups to a new level of quietness and refinement. The doors are triple-sealed, a fibrous wheelhouse liner has been added to reduce road noise, and a liquid-applied sound deadener provides another layer of noise reduction. Additionally, a large underfloor tunnel acoustic absorber is able to shield the inside from road and powetrain noises coming from underneath. Under the hood, there are two options available - an EcoTec 2.5-litre 4-cylinder that is better suited for those who are after optimal fuel
economy, and a 3.6-litre V6 that is no slouch in efficiency but has that extra power when needed for towing or hauling. The 4-cylinder makes a competent 200 horsepower and 191 lb-ft of torque, while the V6 pushes out an impressive 305 horsepower with 269 lb-ft of torque. Fuel consumption numbers are fairly similar between the two engines with only a 0.5L/100 km combined city/highway difference between them in the 4WD versions. With that said, the V6 appears to be the better engine, as it makes almost the same fuel numbers
38 Trucks Plus
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NEW WHEELS Colorado and Canyon in order to get a very good idea of what would be offered across the entire lineup. Each model had a car-like feel when driving around town, but still did enough to not let you forget you were behind the wheel of a pickup. The ride quality was incredibly smooth while encountering all types of roads, and both engines provided adequate power which is especially needed when merging onto the fast moving freeways of Southern California. Towing a speedboat or a set of jet skis was a breeze with the V6 model, and my 6’4� frame was able to remain comfortable during some long hauls up and down the coast.
but will have that extra power if needed. Both engines are paired to a smooth-operating 6-speed automatic transmission, with a 6-speed manual available on select extended cab models. The Colorado and Canyon both feature innovative and durable beds thanks to use of advanced high-strength steels that provided increased payload capacities but reduce the overall mass of the truck. On the functionality side, the CornerStep rear bumper allows the ultimate access to your box, and the EZ Lift and Lower tailgate further enhances accessibility. GM’s patented GearOn Accessories System provides an individually configurable storage system that features two-tier loading, four tie-down locations, utility rack stanchions, and cargo dividers, which give you the most versatility out of your pick-up bed. During the well planned-out media event down in SoCal, I was able to test a seemingly unlimited number of configurations of both the
All in all, GM has improved on the previous generation Colorado/ Canyon in just about every way, and they are sure to be setting the new benchmark in the mid-size pickup truck segment, which has certainly become stale over the last few years. It’s a safe bet that these pickups will sell well, as you would be hard-pressed to find another vehicle with its unique combination of drivability, ruggedness, practicality, and performance.
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NEW WHEELS
2015 Ford Super Duty Refresh
Story and photos by Howard J Elmer
T
he truck wars continue. No, that’s not a headline, just a fact. This war has been heating up year after year for over a decade with offensives, new fronts and black ops campaigns. But what is the most consistent weapon of mass destruction the manufacturers toss at each other in this war? Weight. As in, how much will my truck carry and haul?
material. The first is larger and more responsive and the second is lighter and more wear-resistant. The net results of these changes are new output numbers for the 6.7-litre turbo-diesel of 440 hp and 860 lb-ft of torque. Boom! Another shot across the bow of the competition. So, with more power, Ford of course has pushed up its payload and towing numbers, the most important one of which is a
Frankly, when it comes to pickup trucks, the weight gains across the brands mimic the obesity epidemic across North America – the difference is that buyers want pickups that will consistently carry more weight; for 2015, the Ford Super Duty pickups will oblige them. West Virginia is a tough place to tow. The highways that wind through the mountains are rarely straight, and the grades are so long the DOT even requires mandatory stops for tractor trailers halfway down – to let their brakes cool. These roads strain every component of a truck, and it’s here that Ford brought me to haul the most weight they have ever towed with a pickup. The test section of highway (I-64) they chose had a grade of seven percent and it climbed for over eight kilometres. We went down with the trailers pushing the trucks and turned around and pulled back up with the trucks straining. Over and over in the rain. So, how did they do? In a word – well. Then again, a manufacturer never sets up a test like this unless they know that it will end well. It’s still a good demonstration, though. What Super Duty is showing off primarily is the new second generation of the Power Stroke diesel. This is the first update to the engine that Ford now builds entirely on its own (International built the first twenty years of Power Strokes). What’s changed (and these are more refinements than outright changes) are the placement and size of the turbocharger, and the engine block 42 Trucks Plus
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maximum fifth-wheel/gooseneck rating of 31,200 lb that beats out the current heavyweight leader – Ram. At this point, readers should be questioning the ability of the chassis to support over 15 tons. To that point, Ford showed me where they had changed, upgraded and/or strengthened most under-truck components. The Super Duties carry new commercial-grade wheels, tires and brakes for 2015. The U-joints and suspension are upgraded, specifically with new leaf springs, front and rear stabilizer bars and shocks.
NEW WHEELS What Ford is not saying right now (but is obvious to me) is that many of these changes were necessary to accommodate the coming F-650 and F-750. This re-entry into the larger commercial market will be happening in the next year and for the Power Stroke at least, these Class 6 & 7 trucks will require (and get) the power and torque that are now being bestowed on F-250 thru F-450. I’ll mention here that the standard gas engine available in the F-250 and F-350 will be the 6.2L V8. This powerplant makes 385
hp & 405 lb-ft of torque. Certainly powerful enough and a cash savings for low mileage users who can’t justify the extra cost of the diesel. The gas motor does haul less, but not by a huge amount. Both engines use the same TorqShift HD six-speed automatic with SelectShift, which offers manual control of the transmission – something I experimented with extensively on those long West Virginia grades. A few months ago, I drove the new Chevy Silverado HD trucks on similar highways in the mountains of northern Arizona. What GM was showing off in its new trucks was a slick system of
integration between the Cruise Control, engine exhaust braking, tow-haul and transmission shifting. In short – with the cruise set, the loaded truck held its speed, without braking, even on the longest downgrade. Ford has now added a similar integration to its Super Duties. With the first series of tests (3500 trucks from Ram, Chevy and Ford) towing 12,000-lb fifth-wheel RV trailers, each held nicely on the grades without any input from me – except the setting of the cruise and engine exhaust brakes. And, of course, with those new engine numbers, it pulled away from its competitors each time on the up-hills. But then, that’s not really a lot of weight, so Ford also offered the chance to tow flat-bed trailers loaded down with concrete blocks. This load really put some strain on the components with weights in the 24,000 lb range. Here, the combination of transmission gearing, exhaust brake and cruise control helped manage the load, and my anxiety in the pouring rain playing hopscotch with tractor-trailers on I-64. A point of interest is the axle ratios that Ford offers. With its gas engine, your choices are a 3.73 or 4.30. However, with the diesel, four choices offer an even broader range - 3.31, 3.55, 3.73, 4.30. The amount of tow weight offered by each changes significantly. Of course, choice is what Ford is really good at when it comes to trucks and in that vein, they are also offering a new trim level (new to Super Duty, that is), the Platinum. This opulent package (along with the King Ranch), despite its price, promises to be a strong seller. Canadian pricing for Super Duty starts at $36,949 for the F250. F350 starts at $38,849 and F450 DRW at $61,499. Once you start adding options and upmarket packages, you can easily add $15,000 to these base prices. Orders are being taken now for the 2015s, and they should arrive in dealers by late September.
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OCT / NOV 2014
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NEW WHEELS
Making a Statement
The 2015 GMC Yukon Story and photos by Gerry Frechette
T
he PR folks from General Motors of Canada tell a fun story about the day they arrived in Whitehorse with their fleet of GMC Yukons for journalists to drive at the media launch event, and how that coincided with Prime Minister Harper’s annual visit to the Yukon city. Most of the local folk thought that GM’s Yukons
in SLE, SLT and Denali models, with the ‘base’ SLE available in two-wheel drive. Not only is the XL 14 inches longer in wheelbase, its body stretches more than six inches further to the rear. Both bodies have room for a third-row seat, but the XL is cavernous and has lots of room for luggage behind it. You’ll never miss your minivan with this SUV. We began our drive up to Dawson City in the Yukon SLT, and if an SUV of this size and weight could be nimble, this was it. Driving on the sometimes rough secondary roads was a very comfortable experience, led by our first big impression – how very quiet this very large vehicle is at highway speeds. The seats are
were the PM’s Yukons, given the RCMP security detail tends to employ the spacious and rugged SUVs for their escort duties. Many of the same qualities – minus the armour plating – the government-owned Yukons possess transfer straight into citizen use, as the truck-based, full-frame SUVs are popular with active families who want both total comfort and towing/hauling capabilities, as well as upwardly mobile single folks looking to make a statement. To be able to appeal to all those people takes two different size vehicles, and in three different trims. The ‘regular’ 116-inch wheelbase Yukon and the 130-inch wheelbase Yukon XL come 46 Trucks Plus
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wide and comfortable, if not all that firm, and the interior is very attractively styled, much more so that even the last generation Yukon. GM has come a long way in this regard. The SLT comes only with the 5.3-litre Ecotec V8, and for most people in normal urban driving, 355 horsepower is plenty of
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FUN COUNTRY power, especially in the lighter regularwheelbase body. But, if you tow, or load up the Yukon with people or luggage, and especially if you do those things with the longer Yukon XL, you are going to probably be happier with the 6.2-litre 420-horsepower V8, that is only available in the upmarket Denali model. Backing up both engines is the proven six-speed automatic transmission which did its job imperceptibly, but manufacturers are moving to even more ratios, and soon to come will be a new eight-speed unit, first behind the 6.2, and later with the 5.3. You will gain some acceleration and fuel efficiency with two more gears, but this is as much about keeping up with the competition as it is with anything else. An automatic twospeed transfer case gives you a low range for more challenging conditions. Fuel efficiency is probably not top of the list on most Yukon buyers’ priorities, but these latest Ecotec 3 engines have all the tricks to maximize each litre of gasoline. Direct injection, cylinder deactivation, and variable valve timing all contribute to a rating of 16.2/11.4 for the Yukon Denali model, claimed to be a 12-percent improvement over the previous generation Yukon. While the base and mid-line SLE and SLT models will appeal to active
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families, especially in the longer XL body as a minivan replacement, it is the Denali that is the statement of style and quality, according to GM, and more of a prestige purchase. In this sense, its direct competition is its cousin the Cadillac Escalade. The Denali is essentially the same mechanically, has a more professional and rugged image, and costs many thousands less when equipped the same.
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NEW WHEELS inch Driver Display are standard, as are the very useful power adjustable pedals, a necessity for shorter drivers. Optional is rear-seat entertainment, and power glass sunroof. The secondand third-row seats fold flat. The pace of electronic technology in both safety and infotainment is accelerating at a dizzying pace, and it is vehicles like the Yukon Denali to which GM applies its full range of gizmos. On the safety side, the new 2015 model sees all the latest active assistance to help prevent getting into a collision in the first place. Lane Departure Warning, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Side Blind Zone Alert, Crash Imminent Braking.....through the wonder of radar and associated technology, the Yukon has a virtual protective blanket around it. This is where safety is going. The GMC Yukon, in basic concept, is a pretty simple vehicle, one which GM has been building for decades. Take a full-size pick-up frame and platform, and build a people mover that is the anti-minivan, so-to-speak. With the new Yukon, GMC has made a proven success story even better, with more of everything you’d want to have in a big SUV. The Denali has many unique features compared to the regular Yukon, besides the bigger engine. A big one is Magnetic Ride Control, found now on many high-end GM vehicles, a damping technology that gives the big truck its remarkable composure on all surfaces. The exterior has a lot more chrome trim, including on the unique grille and the bigger 20- and 22-inch wheels. HID projector beam headlamps are standard. Illuminated, powerretractable assist steps are optional, and recommended for climbing up into this big SUV. Inside, there is real aluminum and wood trim, plus premium perforated leather seats, adding a lot of class to the very attractive new design. Bose Surround Sound Audio and an 8-
SPECIFICATIONS: Base MSRP: .................................................................$73,540 Price as tested: .............................................................$83,560 Vehicle Layout: ...................... Front engine, AWD, 4-door SUV Engine: . ................................................................6.2L OHV V8 Transmission: . ..........................................................6-spd auto Power: . ...........................................................................420 hp Torque: ....................................................460 lb-ft @ 4,100 rpm Brakes: . ........................................................4-wheel disc, ABS Curb Weight: ................................................2,216 kg (5,784 lb) Towing capacity: ..........................................3,674 kg (8,100 lb) Fuel Consumption (L/100 km, city/hwy): . ................... 16.2/11.4
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NEW WHEELS sported the original third-gen styling. The main appeal of the Plug-in, however, is not how it looks but rather how it works. “The days of high-power gas Mitsubishis are over — we’re moving towards electric,” says public relations manager John Arnone. The Japanese automaker has already taken big strides in that department with its zero-emissions i-MiEV, which provides some of the technology that makes the PHEV possible. In fact, the two vehicles share the same rear motor.
Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV preview
The hybrid Outlander can operate on three different modes, automatically selecting the most efficient one: the self-explanatory electric driving mode that is powered solely from the 12 kilowatt-hour lithium-ion battery offering a maximum output of 80 horsepower and top speed of 120 km/h; hybrid driving, which utilizes the 2.0-litre gasoline engine to generate electricity when the battery runs low and is ideal for lower speeds below 60 km/h; and parallel hybrid driving that asks the engine to directly power the front wheels when a higher speed, or load, is necessary bumping max output to a calculated 200 hp. Just below what Mitsubishi calls the joystick, or gear lever, the driver can also activate a Battery Charge function that forces the PHEV
Story and photos by Benjamin Yong, additional photos courtesy of Mitsubishi
O
n a rainy late summer afternoon, Mitsubishi Canada offered a sneak peak at a vehicle that won’t hit our shores for a while yet: the Outlander PHEV. That stands for Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle, and it will be the first of its compact SUV class when it arrives as a 2016 model. Already available in other parts of the world, the examples presented were
to use the engine to charge the battery, or Battery Save to have the engine drive the car to conserve electricity. Aside from the different power plant, the hybrid Outlander still resembles its conventional cousin in many ways with a few exceptions. It can carry five passengers and not seven, due to the battery pack residing where the third row normally would. It retains Super All Wheel Control (S-AWC), but the system is electronically controlled rather than mechanically. And it still has paddles behind the steering wheel, although they are used to adjust regenerative braking strength to feed kinetic energy back to the battery rather than for shifting gears. Netherland-spec 2014 Outlanders specially brought over to be picked and prodded at by journalists. The regular gasoline-consuming versions have been available for quite some time, and are the company’s third best-seller behind the RVR crossover and Lancer sedan, respectively. The preview was timed with the release of the MY2015 refresh that includes a return to a more aggressive wide-mouthed front bumper, new black wheel arch mouldings and revised fog lamps, although the Euro PHEVs still 50 Trucks Plus
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When it comes time to plug-in the Plug-in, total charge time using a standard 120-volt household outlet is 6.5 hours. Reduce that to about 4 hours if you have a Level 2, 240-volt power source handy. And if you’re lucky enough to have access to a DC Fast Charger, 80 per cent capacity can be reached in only 30 minutes. Bear in mind that numbers and features are still subject to change between now and the time the Canadian vehicle launches. Stay tuned for full specifications and pricing information when that happens late next year.
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OFF-ROADING
Geiser Bros. Trophy Truck
Story by John Harwood, photos courtesy of Vincent Knakal of Mad Media and Nick Hatcher
mph over dirt roads with six foot-deep whoops! It does this while maintaining a Cadillac like ride! (Seat belt required).
T
So by now you’re thinking, yea, that sounds great! Show me this truck! First, lets take a look at who the Geiser Brothers are and what a Geiser Trophy Truck is.
ruck enthusiasts spend countless hours deciding on the best truck and aftermarket parts to fit their needs. Some require heavy-duty trucks for pulling trailers and carrying big payloads, while others look for lighter recreational 4x4 trucks to install lift kits and bigger tires for trail bashing. Maybe all that is needed is a great handling truck with the right number of seats and a GPS system for moms to get the kids to soccer practice safely. Whatever the truck enthusiast’s case may be, the Geiser Bros. Trophy Truck is probably NOT the truck that fits your needs! However, if you are looking for a truck to win the most brutal offroad endurance races in the world, like The Baja 1000, The Mint 400 and The Vegas to Reno Race, then not only will a Geiser Bros.
Trophy Truck meet your needs, it will take your off-road driving to a whole new level. It will actually teach you driving skills as you let go of your fears and inhibitions and trust the wild beast under you. It can fly across a dry lake bed at 140 mph and do 100 52 Trucks Plus
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The Geiser Brothers are the real life brothers Rick and Jeff Geiser. from Phoenix, Arizona. The Geiser Bros. fabrication shop has been building trophy trucks and short course trucks for over 20 years. More than 50 trophy trucks have been built there as well as many winning short-course race trucks and luxury prerunners. The brothers build these trucks from cut chromoly tubing, TIG welded together on their trophy truck jig. Safety is the most important aspect of the design. The cage is designed to keep the occupants in place while the rest of the truck breaks apart during horrific crashes. The shop designs and fabricates many of the parts in house and tests them extensively for optimal performance. A trophy truck is the name given to the class of desert race trucks that have no restrictions on engine size or suspension travel. A Geiser TT (trophy truck) typically produces about 800 horsepower
and has about 26 inches of suspension travel in the front and about 36 inches in the rear. The drivetrains in the Geiser TT’s are built by the very best in the desert racing industry. They include names like Dougans Racing Engines, Kroyer Racing Engines, Culhane Racing Transmissions and Tubeworks Rear Ends. Seventygallon fuel cells are typical. The front suspension utilizes huge Geiser Built upper and lower control arms with upright spindles and four inch-diameter Fox or King racing shocks. Steering is by way of a massive Howe Performance rack-and-pinion steering system.
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Booth #33159 At the back, they come with a four-link suspension system including Geiser Built trailing arms, stabilizers and Fox or King Racing Shocks. The trucks normally ride on 39-inch tires like Toyo Open Country M/Ts or BFG Baja T/As on 17-inch wheels. Inside the cab, they are equipped with top-of-the-line Kenwood Communication Systems to keep you in touch with your team. A couple of Lowrance GPS systems for driver and navigator are strategically located to keep the glare of the sun off the
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screen allowing both to know exactly where they are and where the next danger zones are on the course. All of the fibreglass body panels are designed and fabricated at the shop and cool fresh air
Horsepower and suspension travel aside, the thing that makes the Geiser TT the greatest truck to ever compete is the passion and dedication that Rick and Jeff have in design quality, craftsmanship and support. Every owner of a Geiser TT can count on pre-race preparation and support during any race to keep these amazing machines in their finest form. When all is said and done, Geiser Bros. Trophy Trucks have won more races than all other trophy trucks combined! They remain the trophy truck choice of champion desert racers like Andy McMillin (McMillin Realty), Jesse Jones (Jones Motorsports), and Bryce Menzies (Red Bull), and that doesn’t look to change anytime soon. So now that you know what a great truck the Geiser Bros. Trophy Truck is, you will undoubtedly want one. For many of us, the best way to acquire one is to keep buying lottery tickets until we hit the jackpot. For the few, who have the means and a bucket list with extreme adventures on it, I would suggest a test drive at this year’s Baja 1000. It runs November 12th to16th from Ensenada, Baja California to La Paz, Baja California Sur, a distance of approximately 1,130 miles. Most race teams are down in the Baja weeks before the race, prerunning the course.
is pumped into the driver/co-driver’s helmets while strapped into the safest and most comfortable race seats by four-point safety harnesses.
54 Trucks Plus
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Contact Rick at Geiser Bros. for further inquiries. Whether you are in the market for a championship race truck or just want to see them in action, The Baja 1000 is an incredible adventure and I highly recommend attending!
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OFF-ROADING
Dirt Riot Racing Series
Story and photos by Albert Vandervelde
W
hat is the Dirt Riot racing series? Think rock crawling meets Baja racing. Take the speeds of Baja racing, toss in lots of rocks and drivers of steel and you have a very unique off-road sport. A little race in Southern California less than ten years ago in a spot called Johnson Valley lit off one of the fastest-growing off-road racing series ever. For years, the world of off-road racing was split between extreme rock crawling done at very low speeds on tight
Same rules apply in all classes – each competitor leaves the start line at 20 second intervals – expect to be passed if you’re slow or get into trouble.
race for the first time last year. Like any expanding race series, additional classes have been created to allow more entry-level competition for those not quite in the $200,000 club of race cars, and they didn’t disappoint, but of course, once the big-horsepower cars To even out the playing field, Dirt Riot runs several classes so almost anyone can afford to take part in the Dirt Riot racing series. From near stock to 500+ hp, dedicated racing cars took part in the Dirt Riot race at Area BFE in Moab, Utah.
intricate courses, and Baja-style races run in open desert at speeds reaching 200 mph! Dirt Riot and the premier event, the King of the Hammers in Johnson Valley, is the end result of this blend. Not long ago, the top 4,400 Class was nothing but modified Jeeps and rock crawlers, but the top competitors now run “cars” with values exceeding $200,000.00 each. I took in the Dirt Riot race on the final Saturday of the Easter Jeep Safari this past year, and the Canadian duo of Dave and Curt Warner were on hand to have fun after completing the King of the Hammers 56 Trucks Plus
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In the lower classes, the rigs look a lot more like they do off the showroom floor.
OFF-ROADING
Dave and Curtis Warner from Canada built two of these cars and while one was destroyed racing, Daveâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s car went on to complete the King of the Hammers race in Johnson Valley.
The course was split into an upper area which provided close-up viewing, and the lower bowl area where the competitors stretched out using other trails inside the park boundary.
Safety is the name of the game â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 5-point harnesses and helmets along with roll cages are required to keep drivers and spotters safe.
hit the track, the speeds were higher and the tires were coming off the ground as they beat their way up the rocks on the course. The track was spread over the private wheeling park Area BFE, open to the public every day of the year. Literally, the cars were off the track and the local wheelers moved in to have their fun as well. Area BFE was the result of the ever-popular Upper Helldorado trail area being sold off as â&#x20AC;&#x153;school trust lands.â&#x20AC;? These are areas in Utah held in trust to provide income to the educational system in the state when auctioned off.
This 4400 car gets some air time as the lap times get faster near the end of the race and times become important.
Big Rich of Werock Motorsports puts on the Dirt Riot series along with races for the more technical Rock Crawling rigs, and races are held all over North America and even a race in Japan in 2014.
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Trucks Plus 57
RV-ING
2015 Coachmen Brookstone BKF375FL Story and photos by Howard J Elmer
T
he first time I saw an upside-down refrigerator, I remember thinking how peculiar it was. Who would put the freezer on the bottom? The more I looked at it, though, I began to realize that this feeling had nothing to do with the design being wrong; no, it was because I had just never considered the possibility of the freezer going anywhere but on top. It was unfamiliar and a change to an item that I considered “finished and unchangeable.” That was a decade ago, and these types of refrigerators are commonplace now and frankly a very practical innovation. I just had to open my mind to it.
Inspired Package. The thinking is obvious - why do without just because you’re on the road? This unit also makes use of multiple slideouts (five in this case) to create as much living space as possible. For instance, both the front living room and rear bedroom have opposing slides that offer lots of
I’m telling this story because the first time I saw a front living room in a fifth-wheel trailer, I had exactly the same feeling. Bedrooms belong up front, my sense of familiarity told me – not salons. Yet, this topsyturvy design not only made sense, but in the past five years or so that they have appeared, they have inspired manufacturers to offer a host of these designs. Still, the majority of fifth wheels still have the bedroom up front, but having this choice has opened my mind to the possibilities in never limiting design options. Now, climbing into Coachmen’s Brookstone FL (front living room) still flicks at me with a momentary hesitancy when I see the fireplace in the nose, but only for a moment. Frankly, I’ve become a fan. The Brookstone family is made up of seven models ranging in length from 34’8” to 39’6”. Of these, only one is a front living room layout. However, each version has certain elements in common, the first being residential-sized bathrooms. Each has a large shower with sliding glass doors, full vanity and a linen closet. A neat feature is a revolving pet food and water bowl holder under the vanity cupboards. There is also an outside leash anchor provided. Coachmen says more than 70 percent of full-timers travel with pets. The list of these “”just like at home” features is detailed below under the Consumer 58 Trucks Plus
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floor space. In the bedroom, this fact creates another lounge space as the wardrobe slide also carries the 32-inch HD TV and vanity counter area. While there are no other chairs in this space, the optional King bed in my tester came with a memory foam mattress that could incline the head of the bed, providing a comfortable reclining position for reading or viewing. This bed is easily walked around and being in the rear of the coach, offers a high ceiling and large opening window across the back of the trailer. Of course, it also has its own door to the bathroom as well as a passage door.
RV-ING Another interesting note is the headroom in the nose. While itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s less than a rear living room setup, I found it ample. I think in part, this is helped by the arched ceiling that visually opens the space up, plus the windows that flood the area with light. The middle of the coach houses the kitchen. This is also where the main entry door is (though there is a second door that opens into the bathroom). This puts the high-traffic area squarely onto the vinyl flooring (which looks like a wide-plank barn board complete with surface undulations). The stove, complete with burner covers, is housed in the fifth slide, while the double sinks are 90 degrees to the right. This two-tiered counter has a reasonable amount of space and a nice feature is that someone working here is facing the front living
The word residential comes up often in the company literature. I take it to mean that amenities are like those at home. Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s no surprise for a unit that is meant to be a full-timer RV, but Coachmen has included a few features that others often miss - a full-size kitchen garbage can, for one, as well as a dedicated spot for a laundry hamper and the rough-ins for a stackable washer/dryer and second A/C unit. The kitchen can also be equipped with a large 12-cubic-foot refrigerator with ice maker. All these things are items youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d have at home, so why not in your RV? The living room is a sizable entertaining space with opposing couches in the slides plus an oversized rocking recliner. Everything is anchored by the 50-inch Smart television that has its own keyboard (it can stream the internet). This TV is centred in the beautiful cabinetry that takes up the entire front wall including a built-in electric fireplace. One of those couches is also a Lane Hide-A-Bed Sofa. This also effectively puts overnight guests at the other end of the unit for more privacy.
room, making it easier to carry on a conversation. Another benefit to this design is the high ceiling in the kitchen, where dining occupants can be cooled by the overhead ceiling fan. The Brookstone is a four-season trailer, so special attention has been paid to insulation, heating, thermal windows, heated tanks and
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RV-ING SPECIFICATIONS: 2015 Coachmen Brookstone BKF375FL Dry Weight: .................................................................12,290 lb GVWR: . ......................................................................15,500 lb Length: .............................................................................. 39’6” Height: . ............................................................................12’11” Width: . ................................................................................. 96” Fresh Water: ....................................................................70 gal Grey Water: . ....................................................................90 gal Black Water: . ...................................................................45 gal Awning: ............................................................................. 17 ft.
an enclosed underbelly. For the same reason, basement storage is large, ample and also pass-through. Slam latches are a nice feature and the doors are insulated as well. As for towing, the Brookstone is a large trailer and needs an appropriately sized truck. Mine was a single-rear wheel Ford F350 with the Power Stroke diesel engine. This was more than ample, not just for power, but also for the feeling of confidence that comes with a heavy chassis towing a heavy trailer. Pin placement on the Brookstone offered 90 degrees of turning (handy with a trailer this long) and the 7,000-lb Dexter axles carry 16-inch tires. The trailer also has a system called “Correct Track Suspension Alignment.” Along with the Mor/Ryde suspension, it tracks straight, turns easily and covers uneven ground in the campground while staying close to level. A nice towing trailer, over-all. As you’ll see by the accompanying lists of features, this is a packed unit, and of course, the price reflects that. If you are in the market for an upscale fifth-wheel (for full-timing or otherwise), have a look at the Brookstone line.
50 YEARS OF COACHMEN
his year Coachmen is celebrating 50 years of building RVs. What T started in 1964 in a 5,000-square foot plant in downtown Middlebury, Indiana, has now grown to manufacturing facilities now occupying over
220 acres with more than 23 acres under one roof alone. That first year, Coachmen built 12 travel trailers, a single truck camper and 80 truck canopies. Since then, over three quarters of a million Coachmen recreational vehicles have been produced. Now, while the name is 50 years old, the company has changed hands, most recently bought by Forest River, Inc., a Berkshire Hathaway company, in 2008.
This brings a point to mind that I’ll voice. Many brand names in the RV business have been around for decades; however, to construe this as statement on quality is misleading. Names are bought and sold, so the company behind a brand name may change over and over. When researching a purchase, treat each unit as if you’ve never heard of the brand before. However, to this point, I’ll add another. The dealer relationship in any RV purchase is so much more important than, say, with an automobile. The why of this is two-fold. First, minor repairs and adjustments will all be made by the dealer’s service department – and there will be some. Second, for any warranty issues, the dealer is an advocate for you. They will be doing the work and they will go to bat for you with whoever owns the brand name. Choose carefully. 60 Trucks Plus
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Pricing Base Price:............................................................... $56,832.75 Journey Package:...................................................... $5,075.00 Consumer Inspired Package...................................... $3,625.00 Options Frameless Windows...................................................... $862.75 Six-point electric auto-levelling system...................... $2,718.75 Bedroom 32” HD LED TV............................................. $797.50 Low profile ducted (2nd) 13,500 BTU A/C.................... $761.25 12-cu-ft stainless steel refrigerator w/ ice maker....... $2,537.50 Central Vacuum............................................................ $572.75 Electric Fireplace.......................................................... $797.50 MCD roller day/night shades......................................... $435.00 King Bed....................................................................... $290.00 Generator ready (Onan 5.5kW).................................... $717.75 CSA upfit....................................................................... $398.75 Roadside Assistance...................................................... $43.50 Canadian MVSA.............................................................. $25.00 Total Options:........................................................... $19,658.00 Price as tested:........................................................ $76,490.75
Unit provided courtesy of Globetrotter RV Inc. Bolton, ON.
OFF-ROADING
Lone Wolf Wheeling
Story by Albert Vandervelde, photos courtesy of the manufacturers
W
e all know that four-wheeling, similar to any extreme-type sport, is always safer in a group. Every message board and club always promotes never wheeling alone. But what if you’re the type who just likes to get away from everyone? There is nothing better than a campsite on your favourite mountain with no one there but yourself or your own family group. The only one to fish that river as the sun comes up or canoe a lake with the water like glass and only loons and beavers as company. I’m right there with you!
it’s even more important to be self-sufficient with the ability to repair your rig or recover your vehicle from a stuck situation – and of course, to be able to survive for a couple of days if you get stuck enough to require help. The list here is by no means a be-all list, and I won’t get into camping gear, but I live by the following recommendations.
While I like a good group wheel, I also like a solo blast down a back road in the middle of the week with no one around – but
First, we will cover essential gear for the “lone wolf” wheeler – and really, I don’t outfit my rig much differently for a group run, so this really does go both ways… Recovery gear Tug straps and come-alongs be damned – you need a winch and a recovery kit to go along with your winch. This should be your first investment if you travel alone. There are a wide array of brands on the market, but its even more important if you go out solo to buy the best winch you can afford. Your winch should be 62 Trucks Plus
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OFF-ROADING rated to pull 2X the weight of your vehicle, and you need to add a good high-quality battery capable of supporting the winch’s amp draw. Warn used to be the go-to company for winches, and for premium quality, it still is, but there are good options from Super Winch, Quality Gear, KingOne and others. The key here is to buy a quality unit, because when you need it, you usually really need it! Good quality tires On my last trip out, I was with a fairly new four-wheeler on what I would consider your average trail you would run trying to find that remote lake or camp spot you want to get to. So, what happened? A two-inch cut in his sidewall midway into the trail. While this can happen at any time, in this case, a good quality off-road tire with thick sidewalls would not have cut. You can only carry so many spares. There are reasons certain tires sell well to true off roaders. Again, there is no one brand that takes the cake; some are better on ice and snow, others better in mud, so buy to match the conditions you generally drive in, but stick with companies such as Goodyear, BF Goodrich, Yokohama, Toyo, etc. for a durable all-round trail tire, and others such as Pitbull, Interco and Mickey Thompson for larger, more aggressive tires.
Buy an assortment of other hand tools; hammers, pliers, electrical test light, bow saw, chainsaw etc. are a must. You can never have too many tools. Jack Love them or hate them - a hi-lift jack should be part of your tool kit. Make sure there are spots you can lift off of on your vehicle, as well. That little under-seat jack will not do you much good in snow or a spot that has your vehicle in a compromised position. Spare parts Have I got strange stories of things that have broken that you would never expect. My spare list includes parts that can fix almost anything and don’t take up a lot of space. A spare fan belt that fits my vehicle, spare oil filter, a handful of muffler clamps. A couple of lengths of different size hose, enough fluid to do an oil change, brake fluid, extra lug nuts, fuses, tranny fluid, a gallon of water (you can drink this part too), tire Schrader valves (one rock and you have a hole in your rim), hose clamps, electrical wire and crimp fittings, radiator Bars Leak, one long spark plug wire, a fuel pump, driveshaft and axle shaft U-joint... you get the idea. Stuff breaks - be prepared for what your vehicle needs. And of course, for long trips - extra fuel. Protect yourself Be prepared for any weather. You might be able to go quite a few days without food (always pack extra), some time with water (you and your vehicle both need it, so pack at least a gallon), but bad weather can take you out in mere hours. If traveling in
Tire repair – you need air! No one should venture off on their own without a way to refill tires. This means some type of portable air compressor. There are lots of premium compressors on the market capable of filling up a flat, or refilling tires after reducing tire pressure for trail traction, but a good tire repair kit containing tire repair tools and tire plugs is a must, as well. Companies such as ARB and Viaair make very
good electric compressors, while those with more ambition can convert an air conditioning compressor to supply engine beltdriven compressors with larger air volumes. Tools This is a no brainer – you need tools that fit your vehicle, and leave them in there! Purchasing a clamshell-type tool kit from any retailer keeps your ratchets and sockets safe and easy to reach. 64 Trucks Plus
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the winter, expect to survive with no heat in –20 (this goes for highway travel as well). Pack multiple sources of fire starter, some way to keep yourself warm and dry are imperative, and a smoking fire can be spotted from the air with ease. If you suffer a compete vehicle breakdown, stick with your vehicle if you do not have a clear direction and walkable route out. You need to inform someone before you head out, your general route and plans; this can save days of searching if you have kept close to those coordinates. A GPS running and tracking your course is such an easy tool these days and quite inexpensive. A fullycharged cell phone, and if you’re really adventurous, nothing wrong with investing in a satellite phone.
GEARING UP Bully Dog now Offering All-in-One GT Platinum Tuner Bully Dog has recently decided to take all of the features from all previous GT Gas products, and packaged them into one powerful unit called the GT Platinum. The new GT Platinum tuner contains the off-roading Trail Tool features for Jeep owners, customization for Toyota owners, unique features for Hemi owners, plus the GT solution for Ford, GM, and Dodge products. The all-in-one tuner has multiple on-board power levels that ensure a gain in fuel economy in horsepower that can be used for a multitude of things like towing, off-roading, or simply everyday driving. For more information please go to www.bullydog.com
Toyo Introduces the Open Country C/T Tire
New HDX Swing-A-Way Tire Carrier Rear Bumper From OR-Fab
Toyo introduces its newest light truck tire, the Open Country C/T. This tough 3-ply sidewall, commercial duty tire can boast chip resistant tread compound, deep grooves with stone ejectors and an aggressive looking tread and sidewall design to boost the look of any vehicle. In addition, Toyo stepped it up to deliver an on/off-road tire that will handle the summer months, right into the winter season without compromising toughness. The Open Country C/T comes with the mountain snowflake symbol, and in Toyo fashion, exceeds Transport Canada’s requirements for winter driving. Durability and traction, for “all” weather conditions.
New from OR-Fab is the HDX Swing-A-Way Tire Carrier rear bumper that provides Jeep Wrangler JK owners added convenience and improved styling. It features an angled design that extends under the vehicle’s quarter panels to provide added protection. The tire carrier is able to hold up to a 37-inch tire and swings open and closed with the Jeep’s tailgate. In addition, the tire mount is adjustable and comes with a high-output LED third brake light. The bumper is made from 3/16-inch thick steel plate and comes with all necessary hardware for an easy installation.
For more information please go to www.toyotires.ca
Stampede Automotive Accessories Releases Tape-Onz Sidewind Deflectors The Tape-Onz Sidewind Deflectors from Stampede Automotive Products are designed to expedite airflow through the cab while protecting from you from the elements as well as road debris. In addition to also reducing wind noise, the deflectors will also enhance the look of your vehicle. They are specifically made for each vehicle with a contoured exact fit, are quick and easy to install, and are scratch resistant. They are available for a wide variety of vehicles and come in a number of different colours such as clear, chrome, Mossy Oak, and Realtree. For more information please go to www.stampedeproducts.com 66 Trucks Plus
OCT / NOV 2014
For more information please go to www.orfab.com
Flow-Max Fuel Lift Pump Now Available From BD Diesel The new Flow-Max Fuel Lift pump from BD Diesel is made to deliver ample fuel flow for an output of more than 600 horsepower in late-model Cummins and Duramax diesel engines. The pump features a quiet motor design which is able to utilize vibration isolators and the versatile frame rail mounting clamps to make installation easy. The fully modular design of the pump allows for the addition of water separator and/or high efficiency low-micron filters using non-proprietary cartridges that can be purchased almost anywhere. For more information please go to www.dieselperformance.com
GEARING UP Titanium Tonneau Cover From Truxedo The Titanium Tonneau Cover from Truxedo is custom-made to fit your vehicle and is able to provide bed security to your truck without compromising any style points in the process. The Titanium combines the best features of both hard and soft covers by using a layer of interlocking aluminum slats and an easy rollup design that allows full use of your bed. To top it off, Truxedo has thrown in a nice-looking high-grade vinyl top. Installation is a breeze and requires absolutely no drilling.
HOOD PROTECTORS AND SIDEWIND DEFLECTORS Easy Installation / Maximum Protection
For more information please go to www.truxedo.com
Jeep Wrangler JK Axle-Back Exhaust System From Rugged Ridge
The all-new Rugged Ridge Jeep Wrangler JK Axle-Back Exhaust System is made for 2007-2015 models and features 2-1/4â&#x20AC;? mandrelbent pipes that are able to provide a smooth exit without the constrictions often found in crush-bent pipes. This allows for a decrease in back pressure which results in increased horsepower. The dual exhaust system boasts slash-cut and rounded oval tips for a rugged look, and comes with all necessary mounting hardware for an easy bolt-on installation. For more information please go to www.ruggedridge.com
LED Technology For Light That Lasts from GE GE Nighthawk LED lamps are able to provide a bright, white light thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s virtually maintenance free and offer real advantages over other lighting technologies. They have a long life with the only up-keep being normal lens cleaning, and they produces a light with a colour temperature that is very close to daylight for exceptional visibility in even the darkest of settings. The lights come with a 3-year warranty and are made in the USA.
DESIGNED / ENGINEERED
2FIT At Stampede, form meets function. We create products that are not only more aerodynamic, but provide an integrated style that compliments your vehicle. And keep in mind, our products FIT LIKE A GLOVE.
800.858.5634
StampedeAutomotiveAccessories.com
For more information please go to www.gelighting.com OCT / NOV 2014
Trucks Plus 67
GEARING UP All-New ICI Magnum Bumpers Released for 2014 Ram HD
ICI has recently released new Magnum Bumpers for the 2014 Ram HD full-size pickup. The bumper is constructed from premium grade cold rolled steel and boasts a 2-stage powder coat finish. The front bumper has two 4-inch square light hole pickets, forced air ventilation, and is compatible with the OE tow hooks. The Magnum Rear Bumper comes in two forms, one that is compatible with the factory back-up sensors and one that is not, while both models are able to use the factory hitch. For more information please go to www.icionline.com
68 Trucks Plus
OCT / NOV 2014
DOOR MIRRORS Look & Fit Like Original!
CHEVY/GMC 1967-69 Truck
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1970-72 Truck
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'73-87 Chevy/GMC Truck '73-91 Chevy/GMC SUV
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1988-98 Truck 1992-99 SUV
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"KEEP'EM ON THE ROAD"
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Why on earth would you ever take a Camaro in the mud.
These ladies won’t have much trouble finding some help.
That’s a lot of wheels spinning. Perftect time to pose for a picture.
You’d think a vehicle like this wouldn’t get stuck.
A lot of people here willing to get dirty to get this truck out.
We’re sure that most of you have had the misfortune of getting stuck while out on a weekend adventure. So send us your photos of your adventure to stucktrucks@rpmcanada.ca and if we use your photos we’ll send you a cool Trucks Plus hat! 70 Trucks Plus
OCT / NOV 2014