CONTENTS A/T TIRES:
TOYO TEST:
FRONTIER:
WHEELS:
All-Terrain Tires Buyers Guide ...pg 14
2022 Nissan Frontier Debuts ...pg 22
Toyo Open Country H/T II ...pg 26
Wheels Buyers Guide ...pg 30
Ram 1500 TRX
Powerboost The Ford F-150 now has a hybrid powertrain option ...pg 10
RV-ING
What’s new in RVs for 2021? ... pg 34
ALSO INSIDE: Fresh Tracks -------------------------- 4 Our first drive of the all-new Ram 1500 TRX ...pg 19
Gearing Up --------------------------- 42 Stuck Trucks------------------------- 46 APRIL/MAY 2021 Trucks Plus MAGAZINE
FRESH TRACKS
Ford Super Duty Receives Smart and Stylish Upgrades for 2022
F
ord has recently released details and photos of the 2022 F-Series Super Duty trucks that will see an increase in customer convenience, connectivity and personalization. First, likely as a response to Ram’s giant infotainment display, the Super Duty adds a 12-in, landscape-oriented centre touchscreen that comes standard on Lariat and above models with physical controls below for quick access to commonly used functions. The screen is able to be split to see navigation, music, truck features and the new digital owner’s manual. The all-new SYNC 4 system features twice the computing power of SYNC 3 and can wirelessly connect smartphones without a USB cord for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. Also new for 2022 is a new stylish Lariat Sport Appearance Package that includes body-colour bumpers, exterior mirrors and grille plus a chrome exhaust tip and black running boards. The Black Appearance package is now available for XLT models and includes the 20-in. Ebony Black-painted premium wheels, body-colour bumpers, grille bars, black running boards and even black Ford oval logos. New colour options are also available including a Baja interior for Lariat, a Navy Pier and Light Slate interior for Limited and an Atlas Blue exterior colour. The current generation Super Duty was introduced in 2020 and offers an available 6.7L Power Stroke diesel V8 engine option that delivers 1,050 lb-ft. of torque and 475 horsepower. The 2022 Ford Super Duty will be available by this summer. Trucks Plus MAGAZINE APRIL/MAY 2021
Volume 14, Issue No. 2 April / May 2021
STAFF & CONTRIBUTORS
Publisher: Dean Washington dean@rpmcanada.ca Associate Publisher: David Symons david@rpmcanada.ca Managing Editor Jordan Allan jordan@rpmcanada.ca Distribution Manager: Brenda Washington brenda@rpmcanada.ca Copy Editor: Gerry Frechette gerryf@rpmcanada.ca Advertising Sales: Elaine Fontaine elaine@rpmcanada.ca Contributing Writers / Photographers: Jordan Allan Howard J Elmer Dan Heyman Russell Purcell CONTACT INFORMATION
TRUCKS PLUS Magazine is published seven times per year by RPM Media Inc. MAILING ADDRESS: 2460 Kingsway Avenue Port Coquitlam, BC, Canada V3C 1T4 TELEPHONE: (604) 629-9669 FAX: (778) 285-2449 TOLL FREE: (888)-500-4591 EMAIL: info@rpmcanada.ca WEBSITE: www.rpmcanada.ca Second Class Mailing Agreement #40050183
Trucks Plus MAGAZINE APRIL/MAY 2021
AJAC Names Ram 1500 as 2021 ‘Best Full-size Pickup’ The Automobile Journalists Association of Canada (AJAC) has named the Ram 1500 as “Best Full-size Pickup Truck in Canada for 2021” beating out the Chevrolet Silverado and Nissan Titan to wear the crown. The “Best Full-Size Pickup” category is one of eight categories voted on by AJAC members, the winners of which are eligible to win the 2021 Canadian Car of the Year or 2021 Canadian Utility Vehicle of the Year, which have also since been presented. For the second straight year, the Mazda3 is the 2021 Canadian Car of the Year, while Canadian Utility Vehicle of the Year was the Genesis GV80. Due to the pandemic, the 2021 program was a bit different in that vehicles that are newly designed, refreshed or carried over from previous model years were considered if a minimum number of ballots were submitted by AJAC journalists. Usually the vehicle has to be all-new or significantly refreshed, but the decision was made to widen the field. For more information on the other category winners, or AJAC itself, visit www.ajac.ca.
Retrax Sells 500,000th Tonneau Cover Retrax, which is a Truck Hero company, has recently announced that it has reached a significant milestone with the sale of its 500,000th retractable truck bed or tonneau cover. Since its inception in 1997, Retrax – which is based in Grand Forks, North Dakota - has been a major player in the retractable truck bed cover market and the company says it is continuing to strive for excellence in every facet of design, development and manufacturing. “This accomplishment is really all about the ingenuity, dedication, and incredible work ethic of our team members,” said Jon Fargo, Retrax General Manager. “We have a great product, with strong support from our customers and a well-established reputation for producing high-quality retractable covers. All of which is a direct result of all the hard work that our teams put in day after day. I couldn’t be prouder of our team.” Visit Retrax.com for more information on Retrax Truck Bed Covers.
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Volume 14, Issue No. 2 April / May 2021
ADVERTISER INDEX
Air Design USA ---------------------------- 37 BAK Industries ------------------------------ 5 CURT --------------------------------------- 40 Dominion Sure Seal ---------------------- 41 Enthuze ------------------------------------- 35 Extang -------------------------------------- 33 Iron Cross Automotive ------------------- 31 LMC Truck --------------------------------- 29 Lordco Auto Parts ------------------------ 43 McGard ------------------------------------- 32 Permatex ----------------------------------- 45 Rugged Ridge Trail Access Program ----- 7 Steelcraft ----------------------------------- 48 Toyo Tires ---------------------------------- 47 TrailFX -----------------------------------24,25 Truck Hardware ----------------------------- 9 Truxedo - ----------------------------------- 39 UnderCover -------------------------------- 15 UWS ------------------------------------------ 2 WeatherTech ------------------------------- 17 PICK UP LOCATIONS
Trucks Plus MAGAZINE APRIL/MAY 2021
Ford Announces All-New 2021 F-150 Police Responder Ford has introduced the all-new 2021 F-150 Police Responder, which they call North America’s one and only purpose-built, pursuit-rated pickup truck. The truck is built on the all-new 2021 F-150 SuperCrew platform and is made to meet a wide range of needs with good towing and payload capacities, utilizing the 3.5L EcoBoost engine that makes 400 horsepower and 500 lb-ft of torque, which is ideal for high-speed pursuits. The engine is paired to the 10-speed SelectShift automatic transmission and both are uniquely calibrated to meet rigorous law enforcement use. The truck sits on specially-developed Goodyear LT265/70R18 LRC BSW Wrangler Enforcer all-terrain tires which are made to handle fast acceleration, high speeds and aggressive cornering on paved roads without sacrificing off-road capability. A new torque-on-demand transfer case includes 4-Auto mode with an electrically actuated clutch that automatically adjusts torque as needed for seamless terrain transition. On high-friction surfaces, like pavement, the system runs in two-wheel drive for maximum performance but once you reach any slick or loose surfaces, the system simultaneously directs power to all four wheels. Other new features include Police Engine Idle, which lets the officer remove the key from the ignition and exit the truck while the engine is still running, and the all-new SYNC 4 system with cloud connectivity. The Ford F-150 Police Responder will be arriving in fleets later this fall.
RAM Announces New, More FuelEfficient Version of EcoDiesel Engine Ram has announced the addition of a newer, more efficient version of its EcoDiesel engine found in the Ram 1500 which delivers a best-in-class highway rating of just 7.1L/100km, which is an astounding number for a half-ton, non-electrified half-ton. The new version is called the HFE (High Fuel Efficiency) EcoDiesel and also uses just 10.4L/100km in the city and 8.9l/100km combined. “Ram is committed to innovation and powertrain leadership, and as the no-compromise benchmark for efficiency and performance, we continue to listen to customer input by offering unsurpassed fuel economy,” said Mike Koval Jr., Ram Brand Chief Executive Officer – Stellantis. “The Ram 1500 is North America’s most powerful half-ton diesel pickup with 480 lb-ft of torque, and the most capable light-duty diesel with towing capability up to 12,560 pounds, and delivers over 1,600 kilometres of range on a single tank of fuel.” The Ram 1500 Tradesman EcoDiesel is available on Crew Cab four-door models with a 5-ft. 7–in. bed and 20-in. aluminum wheels plus a black bumper and grille, tonneau cover, side steps and cloth bucket seats.
Electrified! The all-new 2021 Ford F-150 Powerboost
Story and photos by Dan Heyman
Y
ou might not know it from looking at it, but the 2021 F-150 is being called an “all-new” truck by Ford. Indeed, you have to look pretty closely to see why – there are 11 grille styles, some new wheels, some detailing around the side grilles (finished in a classy matte black on my tester), new colours, and the DRLs are new, but otherwise, it’s a familiar shape. The reasons this makes sense are twofold: first of all, the F-150 has been the biggest-selling passenger vehicle in North America for around 50 years now and Ford’s never going to be one to rock the style boat too much, for fear of alienating its loyal customers. Secondly, ask any designer and they’ll tell you that SUVs and pickups – especially pickups – are some of the hardest things to style. Plus, there’s always the soon-to-be-released F-150 Raptor if you really want to kick things up a notch (or seven) in the styling department. 10 Trucks Plus MAGAZINE APRIL/MAY 2021
Another big notch in the “all-new” column is the addition of my truck’s Powerboost Hybrid powertrain bringing the total available engines to six: two turbocharged sixes, a naturally-aspirated six, a turbodiesel six, a V8 and the hybrid which, at 430 horsepower and 570 lb-ft, is the most powerful F-150 you can get at the time of writing. While the exterior styling may be evolutionary more than revolutionary, the interior is much more of a departure especially considering its power-folding shift lever. What that means is that with the press of a button, you can fold the console-mounted shifter into a small storage bin, leaving room for the armrest to transform into an entirely flat work surface perfect for a laptop, tablet or sandwich while on the job. It’s a great feature, though I wonder if it would have made more sense to be able to fold it mechanically with the release of a pin or something along those lines. I guess there is the lingering fear in the back of my mind that this electric motor is just another source of
maintenance. I also wish that if left in “flat” mode after you park and lock, it would automatically deploy once you start up again. That’s assuming, of course, you’ve left the folding work surface stowed. Other new interior bits include SYNC4 infotainment, displayed across a massive 12-inch touchscreen display with Android Auto and wireless Apple CarPlay; a new digital gauge cluster with one of the more unique instrument clusters you’ve ever seen; optional fold-flat front seats and even head restraint speakers for the B&O audio system on higher trims. There’s also more use of high-class materials for the various panels and it is one roomy cabin. My truck’s SuperCrew cab gets a flat floor in the back for great legroom and gear storage (there’s also lockable under-seat storage) while size-wise, it’s almost identical to the second row of the Expedition SUV with which it shares a platform. There’s actually more legroom in the pickup. Put simply: it feels massive inside the F-150 and does justice to the “SuperCrew” name.
Speaking of crews and work surfaces: the interior system is one thing, but Ford has also paid special attention to the bed. It has all the requisite anchors and accessory rails, but it also gets bonuses like power-retracting side steps that extend beyond the back of the cab, so you can use them to help access the front of the bed. The tailgate is power-operated on my Lariat tester and when it’s open, it becomes a workbench complete with etched-on ruler, c-clamp mounts, holders for your phone, table and coffee, and a smart bed access system. It’s a two-step process to open first the step then the hand-hold, but once done, it provides the easiest access of any pickup bed I’ve come across…which is pretty much all of what’s currently out there so yeah, Ford’s system is a good one. It’s not the piece de resistance when it comes to the pickup bed, though; that’s left for something called Pro Power Onboard (PPO), which is a fancy name for an on-board power generator. It comes as standard on any truck with the Powerboost hybrid powertrain, but can be added to any truck in the line-up as long as you’ve got either APRIL/MAY 2021 Trucks Plus MAGAZINE 11
the 5.5-foot (seen here) or 6.5-foot bed length; it’s not available with the 8-foot bed. On gas-powered trucks, it’s a 2.0-kW generator, but the Powerboost hybrid’s battery allows for a 2.4 kW as standard and can be optioned up to 7.2 kW, which means not only can you power a bandsaw at the job site or a television at a nice socially-distanced tailgate party, you could probably also power a house. Or a tiny village. Well, maybe not but the bottom line is that not only do you have power generation wherever you go (there are four 120V outlets and one 240V outlet), but you don’t have to waste precious bed space to accommodate a separate generator. It’s a great addition that adds a ton of functionality. Speaking of functionality: while the Powerboost is the most powerful F-150 you can get (for now), it does give up some capability in terms of towing and hauling to the Ecoboost; the latter can tow 14,000 lbs and haul 3,250 lbs, while the former drops to 12,700/2,120 when similarly equipped. It does drive a treat, though. Power comes on nice and smoothly and the transition from EV power to gas power is subtle; no real vibration as the gas engine comes online, just a smooth transfer of power and gutsy progress down the road ahead. There are eight drive modes to choose from including Eco at one end of the performance spectrum, and sport on the other, interspersed with tow/haul, mud/rut, slippery and so on. These play with the various electronic driver aids, the transmission and the engine to provide optimal progress over any terrain and under any form of duress. Some of the modes, meanwhile, will rely more on the gas engine
12 Trucks Plus MAGAZINE APRIL/MAY 2021
while others – Eco, for example – will rely more heavily on the EV motors. Power is transferred to all four wheels, meanwhile, through the same 10-speed automatic transmission as the gas trucks get. It’s a fantastic powertrain, it really is. While Ford doesn’t offer any form of adaptive suspension and the rear suspension is still a leaf-spring set-up, it is of the two-stage variety to help meter out the bumps and undulations found on the city streets, the job sites and the forestry roads which these trucks will regularly be traversing. What of the Powerboost hybrid’s cost, though? Well, it costs $4,850 to upgrade from the Lariat’s 2.7-litre V6, and that’s the least-expen-
sive way you can get into the hybrid. I absolutely love the power it delivers, and love the fact that it gets the more powerful PPO options, but the 12.7L/100 km I saw is a 3-litres per 100 jump over what Ford claims for it and as is often the case with hybrids of almost any stripe, you’ll have to drive a lot to earn back the savings in fuel. Driven more conservatively – and for a longer spell than I did – I’m sure the advantages would come more into focus and I wonder if more buyers will just be happy with the extra power it delivers. The 3.5L Ecoboost will likely be the big seller of the bunch, but this hybrid is a very compelling alternative and one that I think folks who use their trucks as a family hauler as well as a gear hauler will appreciate.
APRIL/MAY 2021 Trucks Plus MAGAZINE 13
PRODUCTS: A/T TIRES
BUYERS’ GUIDE BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2
Description: BFGoodrich’s toughest all-terrain tire is derived from BFG’s race-proven Baja T/A® KR2 tire, with CoreGardTM technology providing increased toughness. Increased rubber thickness protects more of the critical sidewall failure zone. Specially formulated tread rubber is optimally blended to reduce chip and tear for superior gravel road endurance. The advanced tire footprint shape results in more evenly distributed stress for longer, more uniform wear. Mud-phobic raised bars in the shoulder tread area help release compacted mud for enhanced traction in muddy and soft soil conditions. Locking 3-D sipes provide more biting edges for significantly increased snow traction. Website: www.bfgoodrichtires.ca
Bridgestone Dueler A/T RH-S Description: Bridgestone’s Dueler all-terrain tires provide your truck with versatile performance during both on- and off-road situations and are designed for a comfortable ride. They allow drivers to remain confident while driving on wet and dry surfaces, and are armed with technologies that help deliver durability with a good tread life. Website: www.bridgestonetire.ca
Cooper Discoverer AT3 4S Description: Cooper’s Discoverer AT3 4S tire is a true four-season tire that features adaptive-traction technology that grips the surface whether it be rocky or smooth and even under the most severe weather. The tire perfectly marries on-road comfort with off-road durability and will provide maximum grip and handling on wet roads. During the snowy season, the tire utilizes its snow groove technology which traps the white stuff in the tread to provide snowon-snow traction. Website: ca.coopertire.com
Dick Cepek Trail Country EXP Description: Dick Cepek’s Trail Country EXP tire features a hybrid design that sits between a mud-terrain and an all-terrain for the best combination of a smooth ride and great traction. The silica-reinforced compound improves cut and chip resistance and also wet traction, while the large, deep tread elements provide excellent on- and off-road capability and wear. The high-tensile body ply cord enhances the sidewall strength while also reducing ride harshness and weight. Website: www.dickcepek.com
Falken WILDPEAK A/T3W Description: Falken’s WILDPEAK A/T3W combines aggressive off-road ability and rugged terrain driving without compromising on-road performance. The optimized tread design combined with a silica tread compound enables it to excel in many situations, and the tire features Falken’s patented 3D Canyon Sipes and an all-new proprietary lower sidewall. It also features the Three Peak Mountain Snow Flake symbol. Website: www.falkentire.com 14 Trucks Plus MAGAZINE APRIL/MAY 2021
General Tire Grabber A/T X Description: General Tires’ new Grabber’s A/T X tire provides exceptional off-road capabil2019 Honda Ridgeline Edition ity and durability but is well balanced withBlack impressive on-road performance as well. The tire features the three-peak mountain snowflake designation which makes it great in all weather conditions. The tire’s DuraGen technology improves its off-road durability and the comfort balance technology provides a comfortable, quiet ride on the street. Website: www.generaltire.com
Gladiator X-COMP A/T Description: The X-Comp A/T has cutting-edge tire design. This tire has an aggressive design but is well suited for everyday driving conditions. The X-Comp A/T is all-season-rated and is mountain/snow flake marked. This tire is very quiet with a smooth controlled ride for all driving conditions on- and off-road. Website: www.formuladistributors.com
Goodyear Wrangler Duratrac Description: Goodyear’s Wrangler Duratrac features the three-peak mountain snowflake symbol and provides TractionGroove Technology that offers enhanced traction in deep mud and snow. The self-cleaning shoulder blocks clear the tread of debris for better dirt, gravel and mud traction, while the highly-angled centre tread blocks lead to enhanced traction and lateral stability while reducing road noise. The tire is available in a wide variety of popular sizes. Website: www.goodyear.ca
Kumho Road Venture AT51 Description: The Road Venture AT51 combines the supreme command of rugged terrain with an exceptional all-terrain ride. The aggressive 3.5-rib tread and angled chamfer deliver a deep grip in the mud and snow, and even more biting edges on ice. It was manufactured with an advanced design and materials and delivers long lasting comfort. Website: www.kumhotire.ca
Maxxis Bravo AT-771 Description: Maxxis’ Bravo AT-771 is a premium all-terrain tire that provides an outstanding balance between on-road and off-road performance thanks to the tread pattern and sidewall lug design that is made to offer excellent all-terrain traction. The stiff yet conformable carcass improves off-road stability and handling, while the compound and pattern design improves tread wear, wet traction and hydroplaning resistance. Website: www.maxxiscanada.com
Michelin LTX A/T2 Description: Michelin’s LTX A/T2 tire has been specifically created for trucks and SUVs with a compound that has been designed to resist chipping and tearing, while providing excellent durability when the pavement ends. It features Michelin’s Comfort Control Technology which uses computer-optimized design and precision manufacturing to offer greatly reduced vibrations and road noise. Website: www.michelin.ca 16 Trucks Plus MAGAZINE APRIL/MAY 2021
Don’t worry. We have you covered.
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Mickey Thompson Baja Boss A/T Description: Mickey Thompson’s brand new Baja Boss A/T delivers undisputed on-road 2019 and Honda Ridgeline Black handling, performance trend wear while alsoEdition dominating in the mud thanks to an asymmetric tread design which is optimized for reduced noise, all-weather performance and off-road traction. The new Extreme Sidebiters are 150-percent deeper than the Baja ATZ P3 and create a bold look with extreme off-road traction. Website: www.mickeythompsontires.com
Nitto Terra Grappler G2 Description: Nitto’s Terra Grappler G2 is an all-terrain light-truck radial tire that has been designed to provide you with great performance both on- and off-road. It features full-depth siping which not only offers a functional benefit but also helps maintain the appearance of the tread design as the tire gradually wears. Most of the tire size options are available in an all-weather tread which does include the three-peak mountain symbol which is necessary to drive on some Canadian highways during the winter months. Website: www.nittotire.com
Pro Comp A/T Sport Description: Pro Comp’s A/T Sport tire features a unique all-terrain rubber compound as a result of Pro Comp’s years of all-terrain tire experience, and is specially formulated for the perfect balance of on- and off-road use. The sweeping groove technology increases traction and stability in all road conditions, and the alternating tread blocks reduce pitch noise, as the noise from one block pitch is cancelled by another. Available in a number of popular sizes, the Pro Comp A/T Sport tire has a Q speed rating. Website: www.procompusa.com
Toyo Open Country A/T III Description: Toyo’s all-new Open Country A/T II Is a tough and durable all-terrain tire that focuses on true, all-weather performance and features the Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake symbol. The new tire features advances in tread design, construction and all-new compounding, resulting in significant performance improvements in wet and dry conditions while maintaining long tread life. The Open Country A/T II is available in a full-range of 133 unique size, load and sidewall combinations for wheel diameters ranging from 15- to 22-in. Website: www.toyotires.ca
Toyo Open Country R/T Description: Toyo’s Open Country R/T is not only designed to be aggressive in off-road adventures, they also provide a smoother on-road driving experience. The Open Country R/T combines the best features found in the Open Country A/T II for all-terrain and paved road performance, while blending many of the off-road features found in the legendary Open Country M/T. Website: www.toyotires.ca
Yokohama Geolandar A/T G015 Description: The newest addition to the Geolandar family. This all-terrain tire is designed with traction and grip in mind. Its outstanding off- and on-road handling, combined with its longer mileage capability, make this tire a true performer. Capable of handling extreme and diverse weather conditions. Website: www.yokohamatire.com
18 Trucks Plus MAGAZINE APRIL/MAY 2021
Hear Me Roar
The 2021 Ram 1500 TRX is a truly special truck Story and photos by Dan Heyman
T
he numbers are colossal. 702 horsepower. 650 pound-feet of torque. Eight forward gears. 13-inches of suspension travel from speciallytuned Bilstein remote reservoir adaptive shocks. 0-100 km/h time of about 4.5 seconds (not colossal in the typical sense of the word, but you catch our drift). $94,770 base MSRP. These are special figures for a special truck, but that’s only the tip of the iceberg. It’s what we see now, on the spec sheet, but in this day and age, it’s amazing that Ram actually built the TRX at all. We’ve been seeing concept versions of this now Hellcat-powered pickup for a few years now, dating all the way back to the Texas State Fair in 2016. Since that day, we’ve seen concepts of the TRX appear in a number of auto shows but in a pipe dream kind of way; the more years went by, the more FCA/Stellantis vehicles started getting all that crazy power – but not the Ram. Which is strange, because the Ram’s SRT-10 ancestor was one of the finest performance trucks we’d ever seen, and to deprive the world of a production version of this bloody great big take on what the Ram has become would be a bit of a kick in the pants for the red-blooded big-engine muscle freaks and fanatics that we should all thank for keeping big eights and sixes running in this day and age of hashtag-hybrid-all-the-things. Including pickups, as is the case with the 1500’s crosstown Ford F-150 rival. There’s none of that here, though; this is a whining supercharged V8 no-holds-barred assault on all that is holy and that makes sense in the car world today, and I’ll be doggoned if this isn’t one of the most exciting trucks we’ve seen in a decade. Or ever. Except, you won’t fully realize it from looking at it. That’s because as a rule, Ram already makes some pretty brash trucks, especially the Rebel version, and as a result, the TRX is actually less ostentatious looking APRIL/MAY 2021 Trucks Plus MAGAZINE 19
on my tester, which comes at a $1,695 premium) as far as the hand can reach from any given spot in the cabin – which, incidentally, can only be of the four-door Crew Cab variety – and a vertical Uconnect4 infotainment display measuring 12 inches in length (it’s huge, which is just about right for the TRX). The display’s dual panes can be configured to show everything from your climate controls to your Performance pages because truck or not, this is part of Stellantis’ performance line of vehicles. Which is good, because this infotainment interface is one of the absolute best in the biz thanks to clear graphics, intuitive menus and just the sheer amount of data that can be displayed there. There, and between the gauges where you’ll find an additional display where you can pack
than one might think it should be considering those stats. In fact, though it has wider track and wider bodywork than the 1500, I’d be hard-pressed to see the difference between this and the Rebel unless they were, say, side by each. That’s by no means an affront to the TRX; rather, it’s a commentary on just how wildly they styled the more “pedestrian” – if you can call it that – 1500 Rebel. Look more closely at the TRX, though, and the details that make it special start to emerge. There are, of course, the requisite graphics on the hood and on the sides of the pickup bed, but the way the TRX snarls at you with marker lights mounted inside the big hood scoop presents a properly imposing presence. Then you move ‘round back, pop open the tailgate to reveal an optional trophy truck-style spare tire mount and you start thinking “Rebel? What’s a Rebel?” This is a serious truck, a special truck – it’s the kind of truck that just doesn’t come along that often and you will very quickly start to understand why it costs what it does. Inside, the adventure continues with a pleasing, properly high-class and flash black and red interior with leather and suede (as well as carbon fibre
20 Trucks Plus MAGAZINE APRIL/MAY 2021
on yet more data still. Seems kind of strange for such an old-school no replacement-for-displacement (and forced induction) pickup to have all this tech but it doesn’t stop there, as there is a heads-up display on top of all that. Easter eggs like a print of a T-Rex chasing a Velociraptor (take that, Ford!) nestled in the storage bin are just icing on the cake. All of this chuffing excitement, and we haven’t even fired it up yet. Which, it has to be said, is an absolute event. The starter engine sound is one we’ve come to know and love from various fast Dodges, Jeeps
and Chryslers; loud, throaty and purposeful, it’s a great preview for the fireworks ahead. After that, it’s a bassy rumble from the dual potato cannon-sized exhaust system with – and this is the kicker – that telltale supercharger whine, making itself heard in the background just above the din. Then, you plant the throttle (after selecting drive with a somewhat finicky electronic shift lever – I feel like something a little more pistol grippy and traditional would be a better fit here) and that background whine leaps to the foreground like a cheetah on a gazelle and feels like it pretty much engulfs your entire being. It is so present and loud that you’d think it was aftermarket, but it isn’t. It’s 100 percent factory-backed and it is a glorious sound for gearheads. As stated before; with a sub-five-second 0-100 km/h time, you are up and running in a hurry. At over 6,300 lbs., the TRX is a heffer but don’t mistake that for “slow.” It is still wicked-fast, this thing, and even if it weren’t as loud and ostentatious as it is (prompting a Tacoma driver to basically pull me over to chat about the truck), its blistering speed would more than make up for it. Lordy, there is just something so satisfying about towering over the traffic around you and staring out over that bulge of a hood ahead of you that in the TRX, you just know that you’re in a vehicle that is not entirely of this world.
tweaks the stability control, shocks, steering and 4x4 system – even the responsiveness of the (somewhat oddly shaped) paddle shifters to give you maximum traction on loose surfaces should you plan on activating maximum attack. Big power or no, this here’s an off-roader throughand-through and it does seem like there’s very little that will stop it from getting pretty much wherever it wants to go. “Off-roader.” “Performance product.” “Purposeful.” All great words, but I realize that I haven’t really called it a pickup anywhere in this story. And that’s because it’s not really a pickup truck, now, is it? I mean, it is, obviously in that it has a bed, albeit one that’s limited to 5.7 feet and is taken up by a trick tire mount in my truck and that’s just it; this is a toy, this is – though the bed step and flat floor in the rear do provide at least some added practicality. This is not something your plumber is going to show up in and if he does, you had better double-check that quote he’s given you because it’s not like there’s a “work truck” version of the TRX. If you’re getting one of these, you’re getting one because any shine that any other truck has will dim faster than the curtains can close as soon as they enter your realm. I am TRX! Hear me…well, you know.
After all, what kind of truck has both launch control and a Baja mode?!?! What about one that provides not only the power and shock travel to launch and stick a jump, but also the tech that can actually sense you’re in mid-air and make instantaneous adjustments to the throttle, suspension and traction control systems to ensure you have a proper landing?!?! How did they even think of engineering that? Well, they did and that fact alone might make this the most bonkers performance product FCA/Stellantis has ever released. No wonder it too them so long. Speaking of Baja mode: it’s not as if this truck, with its huge travel, 3.55 rear axle and back-off 35-in. beadlock tires needed any more help, but Baja mode is here to drive the point home even further. It APRIL/MAY 2021 Trucks Plus MAGAZINE 21
Long Awaited 2022 Nissan Frontier Debuts With Chunk Styling, New Engine
Story by Dan Heyman, photos courtesy of Nissan Canada
C
an you believe it’s been almost eleven years since we saw significant change in the Nissan Frontier? And even then, the change was little more than skin deep and was otherwise a carryover from when the Frontier was last given a full redesign for the 2005 model year. In Canada, meanwhile, the wait for some significant Frontier news has been even longer; when the 2020 model received a new powertrain, the Canadian market was skipped.
Well, wait no more because we now have that powertrain, only that’s just a small part of the story, as it’s wrapped ‘round an all-new truck for 2022, one that’s a whole lot bolder looking and more purposeful than previously. It starts with the grille; actually, it starts with the whole front fascia, really, as it’s been crafted to look as if taken from a single block of steel. And plastic, I guess – but I digress. For the areas that required fastening – say, where the fender meets the headlamp lens or taillamp lens – the panels have been given a kind of tongue-in-groove look, which is actually pretty original and unique. Although not totally unique as lead designer Hiran Patel says that the Nissan hardbody truck from the ‘80s was the inspiration that led to that “as one” look. The larger space between the windows and rocker panels, meanwhile, also serves to recall the older truck and really adds a nice level of chunkiness to the proceedings. The bedwalls are also taller to ensure they properly meet the bottom of the side windows. Other great details abound, especially on the Pro-4X package which gets underfloor skid plates that cover the gas tank and transmission, red tow hooks and a new take on the new Nissan emblem that sees it painted red. In Canada, all trims come standard with 4WD unless you include the 2WD special order King Cab S truck that is reserved for fleet customers. Other than
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that, no 2WD, as according to Nissan, 2WD just doesn’t sell in Canada, meaning we get 4WD at base. Which is mostly good, though we won’t see the 3,408-kilogram tow rating the U.S. is reporting, because their figures are based on 2WD trucks. With 4WD, the base S (and burliest tower) is good for 2,944 kilos. Still plenty for jet skis and the like. Both King Cab and Crew Cab are available for every model except base S, which gets only a King Cab option, and only in Canada can you get a Pro-4X with the smaller King Cab. All King Cab models get a six-foot bed, while Crew Cab spec means a five-foot bed unless you select the SV long-wheelbase model (3,550 mm as opposed to 3,200 mm), which opens up enough space for a Crew Cab and the longer box. A manual transmission, it seems, is also no longer in the cards, as every Frontier sold both in Canada and the U.S. gets the exact same powertrain: a 3.8-litre V6 good for a generous 310 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque, fed through a nine-speed automatic transmission. On the subject of transmissions and powertrains: since every Canadian Frontier gets AWD, every truck gets a shift-on-the-fly 4WD system with 2WD, 4HI and 4LO modes that are connected to an electronically-controlled transfer case. There’s also hill start assist and hill descent control, while the Pro-4X model provides an electronic locking differential. Of course, it doesn’t stop there for the Pro-4X, as it also gets special Bilstein shocks and those aforementioned underbody panels. For those looking for even more performance bits, Nissan did confirm that its Nismo performance division is already working on installable upgrades for the new Frontier. Inside, we find more of the chunky, blocky styling language that’s been applied to the exterior. The dash, for example, looks to be divided in two but held together by an x-brace that also doubles as the centre stack – if you look closely, you can see more of the tongue-in-groove styling used for the head- and taillights. The interior is also finished in materials and colours chosen to reflect outdoors gear – think neon oranges and flat greys – and the materials
have been chosen for their durability. It should come as little surprise that Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard, while wireless charging (but no wireless CarPlay) is an added option along with a Pro-4X-specific nine-speaker Fender audio system. All that is controlled, meanwhile, by an eight-inch touchscreen while a nine-incher is available as an option. In addition to getting the bonus Pro-4X King Cab option in Canada, we also get Nissan Safety Shield 360 tech as standard which adds rear auto-braking and cross-traffic alert, automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, blind spot warning, lane departure warning and high beam assist, as well as intelligent adaptive cruise control. This being a Nissan, the Frontier also gets the brand’s very good Around View parking camera. That’s some pretty good kit for a base truck, but don’t ask us how much all that’s going to cost; Nissan hasn’t announced that as of yet. The 2022 Nissan Frontier is scheduled to go on sale in summer of ’21.
APRIL/MAY 2021 Trucks Plus MAGAZINE 23
TIRE TEST: TOYO OPEN COUNTRY H/T II
Smooth, Responsive, and Ultra Quiet Story and photos by Russell Purcell
T
oyo is a brand on the rise. The innovative tire company has worked hard to expand its product line and increase its global capacity in an effort to claim a larger share of the North American tire market. It seems to be working, as I have noticed an increased presence of Toyo products as OEM tires on press evaluation vehicles as of late - which proves that the company is utilizing top quality components and production methods.
The Toyo Open Country H/T II has been designed to deliver a comfortable ride, which makes it a terrific choice for everyday driving conditions and long distance cruising. The ride is soft, but the design responds well to steering inputs and proved excellent at maintaining grip under most conditions. I initially broke these tires in with a late spring journey from Vancouver to Kelowna. This 800-kilometre round trip included plenty of mountain passes, long climbs, steep descents, and speeds ranging from 50 to
Recent trips to my favourite off-road recreation area revealed that Toyo has caught the attention of the light truck and utility crowd, as Toyo products wrapped the wheels of at least half the vehicles I came across. If anyone needs to be able to trust the build quality of a tire, it’s definitely this latter group. Recently, I had the opportunity to evaluate a set of Toyo Open Country HT II all-season tires on a first generation Honda Ridgeline. The truck has new suspension and brakes, and a four-wheel alignment was performed shortly after the tires were fitted. After several months of use I had put 5,000 kilometres on the tires in a wide variety of road, weather and terrain conditions. First Impressions: The tires replaced a more aggressive all-terrain tire so it was no surprise that the first thing I noticed was how quiet the Toyo’s are. This truck’s odometer had just ticked over 100,000 kilometres, and in reaching that milestone it has operated on no less than a dozen different tires. I can safely say that these Toyo’s are the quietest of the bunch, as I could hear wind noise around the window seals rather than tire noise when travelling at highway speeds. That’s impressive. 26 Trucks Plus MAGAZINE APRIL/MAY 2021
130 kilometres an hour. Lots of light truck tires tend to chatter and drone once you hit triple digit speeds, but the H/T IIs remained quiet for the duration of the trip. Wet Weather Performance On wet surfaces, these tires inspired confidence, as the tread pattern incorporates wide grooves and sipes that efficiently evacuate
water, slush and debris from the contact surface. Grip was retained as I travelled on damp roads, and braking was only marginally longer on slick summer oil deposits. I experienced two heavy rainstorms during my test period. Both of these storms were daylong affairs and resulted in substantial amounts of water flowing off the mountains in my region. One stretch of my commute places me on a narrow, two-lane stretch of highway that winds between a sheer rock face and the Harrison River. This section is a pleasure to drive on most summer days, but with the continuous deluge of rain these rock faces had become waterfalls, and the water had overcome the drainage ditch that parallels the highway. Pools of water were lapping into the westbound lane and I could feel a hint of hydroplaning upon entry and a mild tug to the wheel as the submerged tire slowed and attempted to track to the right. I pride myself on being an attentive and alert driver, so I could react by correcting the wheel and powering through or slowing my speed and correcting as needed. Both techniques worked and I remained confident in the abilities of the Toyo tires - even under such extraordinary conditions. Off-road Capable? The Toyo Open Country H/T II has been designed to serve primarily as a highway tire and has been manufactured using a compound that should deliver extended mileage and tread life. However, light truck and SUV owners tend to be an active bunch, so these tires will prove quite effective on the gravel and forestry-service roads that they use to get to their favourite fishing, camping, or adventure spots. I live at the base of a mountain that is used as the launch point for the mad men and women that like to hang-glide and paraglide. The drive to the launch area is a five-kilometre crawl up a rarely maintained service road that incorporates lots of switchbacks, shallow angle drainage cuts and lots of potholes. The loose gravel can cause vehicles to skate and slide, so operating in four-wheel-drive is preferred for safety. I found that the Toyo Open Country H/T II tire seemed to carve a path through the deeper peripheral stuff without drama, and I was able to make it all the way to the launch site without having to engage low-range.
Many of the visitors to this site make it to the top of the hill in regular vehicles - albeit ones with taller clearance - but few, outside of proper four-wheel drive vehicles, will brave the steep wooded descent to the launch area parking lot. I have done it many times in my truck, but with a burlier tire. I have also used this stretch to test vehicles such as the Jeep Wrangler and Gladiator, as well as Toyota’s 4Runner. The real challenge is the steep climb from the summit parking area to the main road on the return trip, as this 200-foot stretch is very steep and riddled with enormous tree roots and ruts. To be honest, I was surprised by how well the Toyos performed here, as the ruts are deep, and have been carved out by the struggling wheels of hundreds of vehicles, most of which were sporting serious off-road rubber. I took my time, and chose a line of attack based on my previous experience, and with the help of four-wheel drive, we made it back to the top. I don’t know if I would have been so bold if the road surface had been wet, but I will admit that I came away more than impressed with how well a street-focused tire could perform here. Daily Driver With the Covid-19 pandemic putting many business activities on hiatus, I wasn’t booking many test vehicles, as most of the manufacturers had parked their fleets. This gave me the chance to spend more time with this tire, as my truck was being used on a regular basis. I found that the Toyo Open Country H/T II offers exceptional dry and wet handling (under normal conditions), as well as confident braking wet or dry. I performed several panic stops in succession (in a controlled environment) to see how they would hold up under stress. This revealed that as they got hot, they got grippier, and I am sure my brakes would fatigue long before these tires would. On twisty roads and gravel, the tires offered good lateral stability and excellent steering feedback. The one exception was on my trip down the gravel service road where my higher speeds caused the tire to slide over the surface rather than dig in, but remember, this is a streetbiased tire. On a more compacted, high-use, well-maintained gravel road, the tire performed with more confidence. 5,000 Kilometres At the 5,000-kilometre mark, I can say that the tires have performed very consistently. They have proven to be robust, are performing as new, and seem to be good at self-cleaning - meaning they don’t pick up a lot of stones in the tread. As an all-season design, they make perfect sense for our mild, west coast climate and would be an excellent choice as a replacement tire for most light trucks and utility vehicles. APRIL/MAY 2021 Trucks Plus MAGAZINE 27
PRODUCTS: WHEELS
BUYERS’ GUIDE American Racing AR901 Description: American Racing’s AR901 wheels feature a satin black-painted finish and centre cap, and are available in a number of different widths and offsets. They come in either 5-, 6-, or 8-lug bolt patterns and will instantly boost the look of your stock or lifted truck or Jeep. Specifications: Manufactured from cast aluminum. Applications: Available in 17-, 18-, and 20-in. diameters. Website: www.americanracing.com
Ballistic Off-Road Wheels Description: Ballistic Off-Road Wheels offer a wide variety of finishes, sizes, and fitments available in unique designs that support the ever-changing market demands. Rugged off-road inspired styles and solid dependable performance. Specifications: Available in a variety of different styles and sizes. Applications: Made to fit a wide variety of Trucks, Jeeps and other SUVs. Website: www.ballisticoffroad.com
Cali Off-Road Sevenfold Wheels Description: Cali Off-Road’s Sevenfold wheels are made with an advanced construction that helps provide the very strong wheels with very high load ratings. They are available in a number of different finishes and sizes which allow them to integrate into many truck designs. Specifications: Available in a Gloss Black/Milled or Polished finish. Applications: Available in 20-, 22- and 24-in. diameters. Website: www.calioffroad.com
DAI Peak Description: The Peak from Direct Auto Import (DAI) features a classic, 5-spoke design and comes available in a gloss black finish that is able to integrate into just about any vehicle. They are available in a few different size options. Specifications: Features a gloss black finish. Applications: Ideal for late model trucks; visit website for complete listings. Website: www.directautoimport.com
Dick Cepek Matrix Description: Dick Cepek’s Matrix wheel boasts a tough, edgy, multi-dimensional, eight-spoke design and has been engineered for the ultimate durability. The wheels offer an impressive style upgrade to your truck and are available in a number of different sizes to fit today’s trucks and Jeeps. Specifications: Features a sophisticated two-stage matte black finish. Applications: Available in 17-, 18- and 20-in. sizes. Website: www.dickcepek.com 28 Trucks Plus MAGAZINE APRIL/MAY 2021
It’s Up To Us KEEPING GENERATIONS ON THE ROAD ™
If you’re reading this, there’s a good chance trucks are a big part of your life … and your family’s. You may even be driving your dad’s truck – or your granddad’s. Hopefully, your kids will drive it at some point down the line. But for that to happen, it’s up to you to teach them what it means to drive a truck. dŽ ƵƐ͕ ĚƌŝǀŝŶŐ Ă ƚƌƵĐŬ ŵĞĂŶƐ ƉƵƫŶŐ ŝŶ ĂŶ ŚŽŶĞƐƚ ĚĂLJ͛Ɛ ǁŽƌŬ͘ /ƚ ŵĞĂŶƐ ĚƌŝǀŝŶŐ Ă ŚĂƌĚ ďĂƌŐĂŝŶ ĂŶĚ ƐĞĂůŝŶŐ ƚŚĞ ĚĞĂů ǁŝƚŚ Ă Įƌŵ͕ ůŽŽŬͲĞŵͲŝŶͲƚŚĞͲĞLJĞ ŚĂŶĚƐŚĂŬĞ͘ /ƚ ŵĞĂŶƐ ŚĞůƉŝŶŐ ƉĞŽƉůĞ ǁŚŽ ŶĞĞĚ ŝƚ͕ ŬŶŽǁŝŶŐ ƐŽŵĞĚĂLJ͕ ŝƚ ŵŝŐŚƚ ďĞ LJŽƵ ŶĞĞĚŝŶŐ ƚŚĞ help. For us, trucks are part of who we are because trucks are all we do. Simply put, we live, breathe and love trucks – everything ĂďŽƵƚ ƚŚĞŵ͘ /ƚ͛Ɛ ǁŚLJ ƚŚĞƌĞ͛Ɛ ŶŽƚŚŝŶŐ ŵŽƌĞ ŝŵƉŽƌƚĂŶƚ ƚŽ ƵƐ ƚŚĂŶ ŬĞĞƉŝŶŐ ŐĞŶĞƌĂƟŽŶƐ ŽŶ ƚŚĞ ƌŽĂĚ͘ Get your FREE CATALOG at LMCTruck.com
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Enthuze Riddler Black with Red Spoke Description: Enthuze’s Riddler wheels feature a black design with red accents on the spoke and bead locks to create a wheel design that really pops. Made for lifted applications only, the 20x10 wheels are offered in a 5x127 or 5x139.7 bolt pattern with a -25 offset and 87mm centre bore. Specifications: Wheels feature a load rating of 2,500 lbs. Applications: Available in 20x10 size. Website: www.enthuze.ca
FAST HD Summit Wheels Description: FAST’s HD Summit Wheels feature a beadlock-type look that comes in a variety of sizes to ensure it will work with your rig. Their blacked-out, satin black finish will integrate into just about any build while also being fully winter rated so that they will not rust if used all year round. Specifications: Available in 5- or 6-lug bolt patterns. Applications: Available in 17- and 18-in. diameters. Website: www.fastwheels.ca
Fuel Off-Road Block D750 Description: Fuel Off-Road and legendary racer/drifter Ken Block have joined forces to create the Fuel Block D750 wheel that is finished in a highly durable satin black. It features a 17-in. diameter and 9-in. width and is available as either a 5- or 6-lug bolt pattern. The six-spoke wheel gives your truck or off-road SUV an aggressive look that is both stylish and subtle. Specifications: Wheels are rated for 2,500 lbs. Applications: Available for vehicles with a 5- or 6-lug bolt pattern that can fit 17x9 wheels. Website: www.fueloffroad.com
ICON Alloys Compass Description: ICON Alloys’ new Compass wheel features a modern, 8-spoke design, sharp lines, a vented rock ring, and optimized dimensions. The 17-in. wheels have been engineered to maximize caliper clearance and optimize wheel position for uninterrupted suspension travel and steering function. Backspace and wheel offset dimensions have been strategically developed to reduce scrub radius. Specifications: Available in all-new Satin Brass and classic Satin Black finishes. 2,750 lbs. load rating. Applications: Ideal for trucks, Jeeps and SUVs. Website: www.iconvehicledynamics.com
LRG Gamer 107 Wheels Description: LRG’s Gamer 107 are 12-spoke alloy wheels with a clean yet bold style that will immediately complement the look of your truck. The rim is available with a satin black finish or with a machined face and black outer lip that will make a bold statement. Specifications: Available in satin black, or machined with satin black finish. Applications: Available in 20x9 diameter with -12, 18 and 25 offsets. Website: www.lrgrims.com
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Mickey Thompson SD-5 Wheels Description: Mickey Thompson’s new SD-5 wheel line is designed to offer the perfect combination of style and function for today’s trucks and Jeeps. The wheels feature a diamond-cut face with milled accents, a tough satin black finish and a corrosion-resistant centre cap. 2019 Honda Ridgeline Black Edition Specifications: Available sizes include: 15x8 (3.6-inch backspace, -22mm offset); 15x10 (3.6-inch backspace, -45mm offset); 17x9 (4.5-inch backspace, -12mm offset); 18x9 (5.8-inch backspace, 18mm offset); 20x9 (5.5-inch backspace, 12mm offset); and 20x9 (5-inch backspace, no offset) in 8x170 and 8x6.5 bolt circles. Applications: Made for modern Trucks and Jeeps. Website: www.mickeythompsontires.com
Pro Comp Series 5044 Syndrome Description: Pro Comp’s Series 5044 Syndrome wheels are built with a low-pressure casting technology that is used to provide unsurpassed wheel strength and style. The wheels are offered in either a black or grey finish and have a maximum load rating of 2,500 lbs. Specifications: 2,500 lbs. load rating. Applications: Available in 17x9 or 20x9 sizes with different offsets and bolt patterns. Website: www.procompusa.com
Rugged Ridge Jesse Spade 17x9-Inch Aluminum Wheel - Bronze Finish Description: Now the classic styling of the Jesse Spade wheel is blazing a whole new trail with a new bronze powder coat finish. Designed specifically for today’s modern Jeep, the Jesse Spade aluminum wheels feature a special hub-centric mounting pad that delivers the best fitment possible. With an ideal 17x9-in. sizing and 4.53-in. backspacing, this wheel was built to deliver the predictable handling that your Jeep’s performance demands, while offering the best design and quality possible for the new 2020 Jeep Gladiator, as well as 20072018 Wrangler JK and 2018-Present Wrangler JL models. Specifications: Cast aluminum alloy with powder coat finish Applications: 2020-2021 Jeep Gladiator, 2007-2018 Wrangler JK and 2018-Present Wrangler JL models Website: www.ruggedridge.com
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2021 Holiday Rambler - Nautica 35MS
2021 RV Preview Story by Howard J Elmer, photos courtesy of the manufacturers
W
ith a new year comes new hope and a renewal of energy for all of us. Frankly, this statement, along with promises to diet, exercise and quit smoking are perennial fixtures for each of us at every New Year’s. So, in other words – what’s old is annually new again. This year though, we truly have something new to hope for – an end to the COVID-19 pandemic. This is a universal hope for sure. But, while we wait for the end, we should also acknowledge that during this past year, we still lived, we worked, and managed as best we could. COVID was top-of-mind, but curiously, we also started to return to those personal and family pursuits that many of us had forgotten or left behind before COVID-19. RVing is one of these. In the Spring, when none of us really knew what this new reality would look like, (even before we were shut down) people were already looking for escape. What could be a safe, open air, family experience? Well, camping has always been that – and people started to come back to it in droves. RV dealers I spoke to were overwhelmed by the demand for units. New RVers, old RVers - and, in this era of urban condo living, folks completely new to camping - came and discovered the joys of the great Canadian outdoors. So, with this new year, we hope that this is the beginning of the end of COVID-19, but it’s not likely to be the end of the joy of camping that’s come out of this past dark year.
2021 American Coach – American Eagle 45K 34 Trucks Plus MAGAZINE APRIL/MAY 2021
Please enjoy this overview of RV units for 2021. This is just a sample cross-section of the market. Something to whet your appetite as we wait for winter to reveal the spring camping season.
CLASS A 2021 American Coach – American Eagle 45K Built on the Freightliner XCM chassis, this diesel pusher has an all-new exterior, front cap and décor choices inside for 2021. For
instance, you’ll find streamlined European-style cabinetry, residential Samsung appliances throughout and custom-designed seating. The spacious living area has opposing seating, a chef-friendly galley and a Family Hub refrigerator. A large master suite gives way to a master bath with dual sinks and a large shower. www.americancoach.com 2021 Holiday Rambler - Nautica 35MS Class A’s from Holiday Rambler are turning heads for all the right reasons. The Nautica 35MS is built on the all-new Delta Foundation chassis. The quad-slide 35MS features a large master-suite
(the largest in its class, according to the company) at the rear of the coach with spacious wardrobe storage across the rear of the coach. The 35MS has a patio-side dinette, full-featured residential galley and a great amidships entertainment centre. www.holidayrambler.com
AUTOMOTIVE ACCESSORIES TONNEAU COVERS /// WHEELS /// TOOL BOXES /// LED LIGHT BARS /// LED HEADLIGHT BULBS /// LIFT KITS /// LEVELING KITS /// FENDER FLARES /// MUD GUARDS /// JEEP ACCESSORIES /// HITCHES /// BIKE RACKS /// SIDE STEPS /// SNOW PLOWS /// RAMPS /// FLOOR LINERS ///
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CLASS C 2021 Coachmen Concord For 2021, the Concord has been completely redesigned to feel more like a diesel pusher – while retaining its nimble driving profile. It features rear Air Ride suspension, while the zero-overhang fibreglass molded front cap now has a panoramic auto-glass window. Built on the Ford E450 or Chevy 4500 gas-powered chassis, there
are several floorplans. Most feature full-body paint, and chrome wheels and mirrors add to the feeling of a much higher-priced coach. Inside, you’ll find solid-surface countertops, a freestanding dinette and a galley that includes a two-burner induction cooktop, overthe-range convection microwave and 10-cu.ft. refrigerator. Other new features include wireless phone charging station, instant water heater, 50-amp shore power with energy management station and dual low-profile A/Cs. www.coachmenrv.com
2021 Winnebago Revel Built on the new Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 4WD chassis, it just might go anywhere. This function-fueled design is powered by the reliability of a 3.0L turbo diesel engine and has the freedom of on-demand 4WD. The 2021 4WD Revel features livability enhancements designed to make adventure more luxurious than ever. Inside, cabinet and dinette improvements enhance the optics. The redesigned galley features improved storage, a flip-up counter extension and a relocated, 20-percent larger fridge than before. Also new is a hydronic heating system and Bluetooth-controlled awning, plus an exterior table has been added. www.winnebago.com 2021 Roadtrek Play
CLASS B 2021 Leisure Travel Wonder For those who like to bring their bikes along, the nimble 2021 Wonder rear twin bed features a pass-through storage garage large enough to fit two full-size bicycles. Inside are separate areas to live, eat and sleep with a three-piece dry bathroom, a large galley and a table that can be mounted in the front living space as well as the rear bedroom. New standard features for 2021 include a pull-out pantry, flip-down towel bar in the shower, new baggage compartment latches, magnetic accessory rail in the galley, a rear storage power receptacle, dual 6V AGM batteries with 2,000-watt pure sine wave inverter, soft-close drawers, surge protector and a touchscreen control system with smartphone connectivity. New options for 2021 include dual 12V lithium coach batteries, a cashmere cabinetry colour, and a 4-KW generator with auto start and auto changeover. www.leisurevans.com
Roadtrek has introduced three new Class B’s for 2021. Of these, the Play is an entry level coach offering a practical, reliable and easy to service design. The Play is built on the 3500 Ram ProMaster chassis and has all the comforts and conveniences you need after a day of
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B R O N C O S P O R T R U G G E D PAC K AG E N O W AVA I L A B L E - OFF ROAD READY FOR OUTDOOR ACTION! - INSTALL READY HOOD SCOOP, FENDER FLARES, CAB SPOILER AND DOOR ROCKER PANELS COME FACTORY PAINTED IN SATIN BLACK FINISH - NO DRILLING, NO PAINT WEAR, NO RUST. - FENDER FLARE INTEGRATED MUD FLAPS HELP KEEP YOUR BRONCO SPORT CLEAN! - NO HASSLE LIFETIME WARRANTY! “Available throughout Canada from your local Accessory Retailer”.
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travelling. Features like: retractable power awning, outdoor shower, easily accessible hookups, heavy duty magnetic bug screens for rear and passenger side sliding door, 11,000 BTU air conditioner, solar ready and a step bar for ease of entry into coach. www.roadtrek.com
Travel Trailers 2021 Grand Design Imagine XLS 17MKE The Imagine line of trailers offer a variety of floorplans; however, the new 17MKE maxes out its space by offering a fold-up Murphy bed. At 21-feet in length, it has a GVWR of 6,395 lb, making it tow-
able by half-tons and SUVs alike. Standard features and available packages make it well appointed. The kitchen has stainless steel sink, sink cover, residential countertop, three-burner range with oven, microwave and double-door refrigerator. This trailer can also be outfitted with a four-season package that includes: heated and enclosed underbelly with suspended tanks, heat ducts through subfloor, roof insulation with attic vent, floor moisture barrier, double insulated roof and front cap, and heated dump valves. www.granddesignrv.com 2021 Cross Roads Hampton HP364MBL (*Destination Trailer) If you plan on an extended stay at a park, consider the Hampton series of trailers. With an eye to creature comforts, Hampton has
been designed and engineered to feel like home. Rich stainless steel residential-style appliances, 8-foot ceilings, hardwood raisedpanel cabinetry, and abundant storage are found in every Hampton floorplan. The HP36MBL has a unique bunkhouse loft and overall will sleep eight. At 40 feet 7 inches long, it boasts a GVWR of 13,710 lb. Standard features in each Hampton include: 15,000 BTU A/C & 13,500 BTU A/C, awning, custom tub surround, LP detector, microwave, power vent in bathroom, quilted bedspread, smoke detector, TV antenna and water heater bypass. www.crossroadsrv.com 2021 Lance 2285 travel trailer This 27-foot trailer has two entries. At a lean 4,930 lb, this is a lot of trailer for its size! The aft door opens to a great room while the 38 Trucks Plus MAGAZINE APRIL/MAY 2021
large corner galley has two windows. The “Super Slide” dinette is opposite a full-size sofa bed. The trailer sleeps four. The entire space is conveniently situated for viewing the centralized entertainment centre. Forward is a private bedroom with bath, vanity, walk-around queen-sized bed and a second entry door. Lance construction includes aluminum framed sidewalls/floor/ceiling, Azdel interior panel walls, block foam insulation throughout and a tapered exterior roof design. www.lancecamper.com 2021 Forest River R Pod RP-171 Ultra Lite Small and lightweight, the RP171 is perfect for weekend getaways. At just over 18 feet and 2,500 lb with all your essential camping needs. It sleeps 3 or 4, has TV, two-burner cooktop, refrigerator, furnace, air conditioner, convection microwave and wet bath, all of which make this a great floorplan for those looking to get out
and enjoy the great outdoors but who want the conveniences of home.For 2021, these new features have been added to the R Pod lineup: Azdel composite panels, One-piece fibreglass roof, Largest refrigerator in class, Black glass entrance door, Tufflex PVC roofing, Soho seamless countertops, Central vacuum system, Solar panel prepped/back up camera, Torsion Axle (independent suspension), Enclosed tanks. www.forestriverinc.com 2021 Rockwood Geo Pro 19FBS The Rockwood Geo Pro lineup of trailers tow well with today’s smaller, fuel efficient SUVs. For example, the 19FBS is a rear entry couple’s coach with a small slide that offers so much great space.
The large bathroom is one of the best features of this small couple’s coach. The 72-in. pull-out sofa also makes for a great guest bed. At 20 feet and 3,075 lb, it tows small but lives big. New to the lineup for 2021: Dexter TORFLEX suspension axles with standard Off-Road package, 6-Sided Aluminum Framed Construction, Fully laminated Azdel side& back walls, roof and slide-outs, 5/8-in. residential tongue & groove plywood floor, 190W roof-mounted expandable solar panel & 1,000W inverter, Tire pressure monitoring system, Showermiser water saving system, Keyed A-Like system, Frameless windows. www.forestriverinc.com
ANY PURPOSE. ANY SEASON.
TRUXEDO - LEADING THE INDUSTRY WITH INNOVATIVE SOFT ROLL-UP COVERS
• Xtra-low profile - flush mount look • Premium matte black fabric • Single trigger latch release
• Full bed access • Leather grain vinyl
Inside mount rails with single trigger latch release
TRUXEDO.COM
Top mount rails with dual trigger latch release
FIFTH WHEEL TRAVEL TRAILERS 2021 Heartland Big Country 3460 GK This is a new floorplan, added to the Big Country lineup. At 38 feet 10 inches, it has a GVWR of 16,500 lb. Definitely a long-stay, snowbird fifth wheel trailer. As such, Heartland has packed the Big Country with residential conveniences. www.heartlandrvs.com 2021 Jayco Eagle HT24RE This is Jayco’s shortest half-ton towable fifth wheel, designed to fit all American State and National park sites. This small couple’s coach has a large pantry, lots of natural light, large windows and a “Whisper” quiet A/C system. Auto-levelling system is standard as is a rotational pin box. Some popular options are the 10-cu.ft. 12V refrigerator, LED fireplace and the theatre seating. These are in addition to a long list of standard interior equipment, such as: • Solid hardwood fascia • Handcrafted doors, drawers and trim • 5/8-in. tongue-and-groove plywood floor decking • Vinyl flooring in slide outs • LED interior lighting throughout • Central command centre with built-in tank monitoring www.jayco.com 2021 Highland Ridge Silverstar Limited 292BH This Silverstar Limited features the RidgeLINK Bluetooth system, ample storage space and plenty of seating for the entire family. Each unique floorplan offers flush floor slides, a PVC roofing membrane, solid swing-down steps, solid surface countertops and more. This lineup offers durability, style and decent content. The unit shown
here is the 292BH. This trailer has a length of 34 feet 9 inches and a GVWR of 9,995 lb. Here is an example of the standard features found in the bedroom and bathroom of the Silverstar. • Two hanging shirt closets • Two night stands with drawers • Double-over-double bunks with 600-lb capacity in the BH model www.highlandridgerv.com 2021 Crossroads Redwood RW4001LK The Redwood is a luxury fifth wheel. This is the market niche it’s aimed at – and it hits the mark. The RW4001LK has a length of 42 feet 10 inches and a GVWR of 17,616 lb. With unique rear kitchen design, one-and-a-half baths, four slide-outs and beautiful décor, the Redwood is special. It comes standard with an aerodynamic profile, solid hardwood cabinets, solid surface countertops, and many best-in-class features. Because these are luxury products, you will have a feeling of comfort only found at home. For instance, here is the list of standard features found just in the Kitchen: • 22 cu.ft. residential refrigerator with 1,200W inverter • 30-in. convection microwave with exhaust fan • EGS steel-backed cabinet anchors • Hardwood stiles pre-drilled & screwed together • High rise faucet with pull-out sprayer www.crossroadsrv.com 40 Trucks Plus MAGAZINE APRIL/MAY 2021
That was EZ.
EZ Liner Bedliner and Industrial Strength Coating
1. Prep 2. Mix 3. Apply, it’s EZ! The toughest bedliner available to protect your hard earned investment. EZ Liner remains WLYTHULU[S` ÅL_PISL VɈLYPUN [OL ILZ[ HKOLZPVU HUK K\YHIPSP[` VM HU` HM[LY THYRL[ HU[P ZRPK JVH[PUN ,A 3PULY ^VU»[ MHKL HUK ZLHSZ V\[ TVPZ[\YL YLZPZ[Z OLH]` PTWHJ[Z HUK YLK\JLZ YVHK UVPZL (SZV NYLH[ MVY [YHPSLY 9= HUK ÄM[O ^OLLS ^H[LYWYVVÄUN (]HPSHISL PU H JVU]LUPLU[ HLYVZVS MVY [V\JO \WZ HUK YLWHPYZ HZ ^LSS HZ [OL WYV[LJ[PVU VM ZTHSSLY Z\YMHJL HYLHZ
AVAILABLE AT
dominionsureseal.com | 1-800-265-0790
TECH: NEW PRODUCTS
GEARING UP
BOLT Locks Ideal for Securing Trailers and Gear BOLT Locks add security and peace-of-mind to any towing adventure with their patented one-key technology that works with any vehicle’s ignition key which codes the lock to that specific key after
Rugged Ridge All-Terrain Floor Liners Rugged Ridge All-Terrain Floor Liners are made from a durable OE-quality thermoplastic material that can withstand the rigours of daily abuse. Each liner is perfectly contoured to your vehicle’s floor for precise secure fitment using OE floor hook attachments where applicable. The raised outer lip captures all spills, water, and debris, keeping your interior pristine. Features a chevron-shaped inlay with patented deep tread technology for an off-road appeal and protection that is hard to beat! For more information please go to www.ruggedridge.com
Sinister Diesel Stainless Steel Muffler Sinister Diesel’s Stainless Steel Mufflers will help reduce road drone in your cab while maintaining the deep tone you want from your exhaust kit. Available with 4- or 5-in. inlet/outlet, the 30-in. overall
length muffler is a universal fit for all diesel pickups, and features a core that is built to last a long time and high density packing that helps reduce the noise heard in the cab. For more information please go to www.sinisterdiesel.com 42 Trucks Plus MAGAZINE APRIL/MAY 2021
just inserting the key into the lock. The BOLT lineup includes a Coupler Pin, Receiver Locks, Off-Vehicle Coupler Locks, Padlocks and Cable Locks, all of which feature an automotive-grade lock shutter for protection against weather and debris. Additionally, a six-plate tumbler sidebar prevents picking and bumping. For more information please go to www.boltlock.com
Bully Dog Thruster Throttle Enhancement Device When your vehicle’s throttle isn’t what you need, it’s time for a boost with the Bully Dog Thruster. This device is easy to install inline between your vehicle’s pedal position sensor and the vehicle harness. Adjust on the fly and really feel the change as you drive. It’s ideal for off-road vehicles with its waterproof design, but it will give your vehicle just the boost it needs. Visit website for full application listings. For more information please go to www.bullydog.com
We deliver an exceptional customer experience fueled by quality and expertise driven to keep you moving WHAT WE DO
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Anzo USA’s LED Tail Lights for Dodge Ram Anzo USA has released new LED Tail Lights for the 2002-2005 Dodge Ram 1500 and 2002-2006 Ram 2500/3500 that are 100percent street legal and aftermarket DOT compliant. Superior high-
K&N Cold Air Intake System for 2015-2017 Ford F-150 with 5.0L V8 Engine K&N’s Performance Air Intake Systems are now available for the 2015-2017 Ford F-150 with the 5.0L V8 engine option and include a larger-than-stock fresh air scoop behind the front grille to increase airflow to the enclosed air box filter assembly. A high-density polyethylene rotationally-molded tube helps increase the volume of airflow to your engine and provides a guaranteed increase in both horsepower and torque. The High-Flow Air Filter is fully washable and reusable and features oiled cotton filter media. For more information please go to www.knfilters.ca
power SMD LEDs are used and are manufactured to meet or exceed OEM specifications. The lights are fully operational in extreme cold or hot temperatures and are fully sealed to keep moisture out. They feature a fully plug-and-play installation and an internal constantcurrent and waterproof inductive driver. For more information please go to www.anzousa.com
MagnaFlow Street Series Cat-Back Performance Exhaust System for 2017-2020 Ford F-150 Raptor
Bak Industries Introduces All-New Revolver X4s Tonneau Cover MagnaFlow’s Street Series Black Cat-Back performance exhaust system for the 2017-2020 Ford F-150 Raptor delivers your truck dyno-proven power with a performance exterior sound and comfortable interior sound. The dual-exit exhaust is made from 3-in. diameter stainless steel tubing and features black tips that will easily integrate into any Raptor. In addition, the exhaust features a completely bolt-on installation.
Bak Industires new Revolver X4s hard-rolling tonneau cover features a premium matte black finish from top to bottom while an aluminum underbody, protective aluminum slats cap covers and rear tailgate seal caps further add to a modern, stylish appearance. The Revolver X4s features a patented rotational locking system that secures the X4s for the entire length of the bed for strength and security. Finally, the cover rolls up effortlessly and secures tightly at the cab, leaving you with full bed access and no interference on your third brake light.
For more information please go to www.magnaflow.com
For more information please go to www.bakindustries.com
44 Trucks Plus MAGAZINE APRIL/MAY 2021
Westin Automotive’s New Pro-Series Front Bumper Westin Automotive’s Pro-Series Front Bumper for full-size trucks is an attractive, heavy-duty, winch-capable upgrade that maintains your OEM features while providing better looks and functionality. The bumper was engineered to improve both approach angles and ground clearance for increased off-road capability and is constructed with a 10-gauge steel bumper shell for strength and durability. A heavyduty ¼-in. steel centre section is capable of holding a 12,000-lb. winch while also having provisions for the factory proximity sensors and either a single- or double-row 20-in. LED light bar. For more information please go to www.westinautomotive.com
Air Design USA’s New Ram 1500 Super Bolt Fender Flares Air Design USA’s new Ram 1500 Super Bolt Fender Flares are molded using high-tech multilayer black ABS brought in from Austria, and top coated with OEM-approved 2K Satin Black paint. They are one of if not the only fender flare that feature a mechanical fixation to the body line to eliminate all vibration and paint damage. They also incorporate a Mud Flap “Anti-Splash” contour that widens the bottom of the flare, protecting the sides of the vehicle from road debris. The Super Bolt system adheres to any smooth surface allowing the part to be mechanically fastened without having to drill. For more information please go to www.airdesignusa.com
Hawk Performance LTS Brake Pads Hawk’s LTS brake pads are specifically engineered for today’s trucks and SUVs, using fleet and military applications. The Ferro-Carbon friction material delivers more braking power and fade resistance than OE pads. They are virtually noise-free and have an excellent pad and rotor life. The pads are ideal for import and domestic full-size trucks, vans and half-ton SUVs with moderate towing and hauling duty. For more information please go to www. hawkperformance.com
APRIL/MAY 2021 Trucks Plus MAGAZINE 45
STUCK TRUCKS
Wet sand really is no fun.
They better hurry up or that thing could float downstream.
This guy has some good friends!
Must’ve been Fed-Ex’s first time at this place, and probably last. Been a minute since we’ve seen one of these.
Built Ford tough? 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! 46 Trucks Plus MAGAZINE APRIL/MAY 2021
