Trucks Plus April/May 2023

• Seats come assembled. Seat slider tracks and seat reclining mechanism are included but not installed.

• Seats are universal and require mounting brackets for installation. Mounting brackets are sold separately.

• All steel, TIG-welded frame is electrostatically coated for strength and durability.

• Premium grade vinyl and stitching will stand up to years of wear and tear.

• Ergonomically shaped cushions are made with high-density, injection-molded foam to ensure comfort with the proper support.

FRESH TRACKS

Ram Teases Highly Anticipated

All-Electric Ram 1500 REV

The Ram Truck brand used a fourth-quarter Super Bowl commercial slot to tease the highly anticipated, all-new and all-electric Ram 1500 BEV. The 60-second commercial, dubbed Premature Electrification, featured Emmy-nominated actor Jason Jones addressing electrification anxieties that possible customers may have about purchasing an all-electric pickup truck, such as range, power and payload. “We created this commercial to speak directly to Ram truck owners and potential truck owners to bring some lighthearted humour to the high-tech, EV conversation, which rightfully takes itself very seriously,” said Olivier Francois, global chief marketing officer, Stellantis. “As we open reservations today for a place in line to pre-order the all-electric Ram 1500 REV, we wanted to directly address any potential concerns about EV truck ownership using an approach that we believe will resonate with our truck-buying consumers. The intent of the spot is to let our buyers know that we have listened to their concerns as part of our dialogue with them over the last several years as we prepare to introduce the all-electric Ram 1500 REV to the market in 2024.” Reservations are now opening for a place in line to pre-order the Ram 1500 REV.

Volume 16, Issue No. 2

April / May 2023

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

Gerry Frechette

Dan Heyman

Spencer Whitney

Benjamin Yong

CONTACT INFORMATION

TRUCKS PLUS Magazine is published seven times per year by RPM Media Inc.

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Ford Now Offering Digital Rearview Mirror on 2023 Transit and E-Transit Vans

Ford Pro is continuing to use technology to give commercial vehicle drivers a better user experience with increased safety and awareness, by adding the option of a fully digital rearview mirror on 2023 Ford Transit and E-Transit vans. The digital rearview mirror features a high-definition monitor that displays a panoramic view of the area behind the van, which would quite often otherwise be completely restricted due to a bulkhead, cargo, passengers or windowless rear doors. This allows drivers to remain much more aware of their full surroundings, therefore increasing safety. The new feature is not available on Chassis Cab, Cutaway, Transit Trail or Low Roof models of the Transit van.

Adventure-Ready Version of Nissan Ariya Prepares for Pole-to-Pole Expedition

In Arctic-like conditions in Reykjavik, Iceland, the Pole-to-Pole Expedition and Nissan unveiled an adventure-ready version of the new Ariya electric SUV that is set to undertake a 27,000-km trip from the magnetic North Pole to the South Pole. The epic adventure was set to kick off in March and will put the Ariya through its paces with a plethora of challenging terrain throughout the journey including ice fields, deep snow, steep mountain climbs and desert dunes. Arctic Trucks, who are specialists in polar expedition vehicles, have worked with Nissan design and engineering teams to prepare the Ariya to handle these challenging conditions. Modifications to the vehicle have been purposely minimal, with no changes to the battery or powertrain, and the biggest changes happening with the suspension and addition of 39-in. tires. Chris Ramsey, Pole-to-Pole EV Expedition Leader, commented: “One of the things that underpins all the adventures we do is that we take a standard production EV and aim to make minimal changes to clearly demonstrate its real, everyday

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capabilities, regardless of where you are driving it. Our Nissan Ariya is no different, as the vehicle’s drivetrain and battery have remained factory standard, demonstrating just how capable and versatile the production Ariya is. We’ve modified the suspension and widened the wheel arches so we can benefit from the stable platform and support of the 39-inch BF

Goodrich tires. I’m incredibly excited to get behind the wheel of what was already a brilliant vehicle, but now feels equipped to take on the ends of the earth in style!” Joining Chris on the journey as co-driver will be his wife Julie Ramsey who commented “The planning and preparation for Pole-to-Pole has been such a big part of our lives over the past four years, so I am really looking forward to getting the expedition underway in March. We’re going to discover so many interesting initiatives from communities and individuals who are taking positive action against climate change and I’m looking forward to sharing these experiences and stories with everyone. We are doing something that has never been attempted before, a world-first, and ultimately that is what makes it so exciting.” We will be sure to keep you updated as the journey progresses.

Ford Offering First-Ever Bronco Raptor Off-Roadeo School for Owners

Building off the success of the Bronco Off-Roadeo school, Ford is now offering the same treatment for Bronco Raptor owners beginning this Summer. Owners will be able to put the Bronco Raptor through an Ultra4 Racing-inspired, desert-dune conquering and Baja rockcrawling adventure outside of Las Vegas. The experience is included with the purchase of a 2022 or 2023 Bronco Raptor and customers will receive a full-day of professionally-instructed driving experience at Mt. Potosi, which is the home of Bronco Off-Roadeo Nevada. The experience is jointly designed by the Bronco brand and Ford Performance teams, Baja and King of the Hammers champions and world class drivers such as Vaughn Gittin Jr., Loren Healy and Brad Lovell. “There’s never been a high-performance, off-road SUV like Bronco

Raptor that you can drive from showroom floor to the most remote and challenging places,” said Dave Bozeman, vice president, Ford Customer Service Division, and vice president, Enthusiast Vehicles, for Ford Blue. “Bronco Raptor Off-Roadeo is like the masters level course of our Off-Roadeo experiences. We’re teaching owners the skills needed to experience every bit of capability from their Bronco Raptor so they can gain confidence and responsible mastery in the outdoors.” So far, more than 31,000 Bronco owners and guests have attended or registered to attend Bronco Off-Roadeo at its four locations in Texas, Nevada, Utah and New Hampshire. For more information please visit www.broncooffroadeo.com/broncoraptor

Jeep Celebrates 20th Anniversary of Rubicon with Special Editions of Wrangler Rubicon 4xe and Wrangler Rubicon 392

Jeep is proudly celebrating 20 years of the Wrangler Rubicon and, to mark the occasion, has unveiled 20th Anniversary editions of the 2023 Wrangler Rubicon 4xe and Wrangler Rubicon 392. Introduced at the 2023 Chicago Auto Show, these special editions will be the most capable Wranglers yet and further enhance the Rubicon’s legendary go-anywhere capability. “Twenty years ago, a small group of enthusiastic Jeep engineers affectionately known as the ‘Lunatic Fringe,’ with grit and determination and their personal credit cards, designed, engineered and developed the most capable Wrangler yet – the Jeep Wrangler Rubicon – and overdelivered on everyone’s expectations because they knew it was what Jeep customers wanted,” said Jim Morrison, senior vice president and head of Jeep brand North America. “Today the Rubicon model represents about a quarter of overall Wrangler sales, with more than 700,000 sold worldwide, and include the electrified Rubicon 4xe,

IT’S MORE THAN A TAILGATE. PROTECT IT.

the best-selling and most capable PHEV in America. That same spirit of determination and ingenuity that led to the creation of the Wrangler Rubicon lives on in these new 20th anniversary special editions, which for the first time, bring available 37s to the Wrangler, providing unmatched capability.” Both special edition models feature a long list of equipment such as BFGoodrich all-terrain tires (33-in. for 4xe, 35-in. for 392), 20th Anniversary decals, a new interpretation of the classic seven-slot grille and a wide array of exterior colours, to name a few. Also exclusive to the Rubicon 20th Anniversary

models will be an available Rubicon 20th Anniversary Level II (only 150 units) upfit by American Expedition Vehicles (AEV) which adds 37-in. tires to the Wrangler for the first time and a plethora of other off-road features such as bumpers, tire carriers, skid plates and much more. The Rubicon 20th Anniversary models are scheduled to arrive at dealerships sometime in Quarter 2 of this year with the packages coming with a Canadian MSRP of $10,995 for the 4xe and $12,995 for the 392.

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First Up

Story by Howard J Elmer, photos courtesy of GM Canada

Every once in a long while, the release dates for a new class of trucks line up. This year, that class is a generational update of several midsize pickup trucks. For 2023, the GM Twins, Colorado and Canyon are new. Also, the new Ford Ranger is coming this year. From Toyota we will also see the new Tacoma, though it will probably be released in ’24. Of these trucks, the Chevrolet Colorado is first out of the gate, and I recently had a chance to drive it down in California.

Last updated in 2015, there are significant changes to this mid-sizer, starting with engine choices. There is only one – the 2.7L turbo I-4. The V6 and small diesel options are no more. The 2.7L is matched to a second-generation 8-speed automatic transmission. Despite there being only one engine, it is available in three different outputs as shown below.

This engine strategy (one engine, three outputs rather than three separate engines) is just one example of a production streamlining I noted in the new Colorado. Another example, that was instantly obvious, was the 11.3-inch centre stack screen. This single screen comes in every version of the Colorado - from WT to top-of-the line

ZR2. So rather than changing up screens based on trim level – a single screen makes production easier. In fact, throughout the truck, I noted items that were common on all trims. In conversations with engineers on site, I hypothesized that the pandemic shortages and

shipping issues caused them to review how and where they sourced parts from. The response was yes, to keep the lines running without interruption, they had eliminated potential bottlenecks by limiting

Z71 & Trail Boss

Available: WT & LT

ZR2 (with a max

of 6,000 lbs)

The 2023 Chevrolet Colorado is the first of many updated midsize pickups to debut this year

the number of build variations. Another big change is a move to a single chassis model – crew cab, short box. Whatever you order, that’s the body your truck will be built on. All these changes add up to a simpler build in the factory – which, (hopefully) also keeps costs and wait times in check.

The 2023 Colorado lineup is re-engineered with three distinct chassis setups for everyday tasks and off-road adventures:

• Standard: WT, LT and Z71 trims

• 2-inch Factory-Lifted, Wide Stance: Trail Boss

• High-Performance 3-inch Factory-Installed Lift & Wide Stance: ZR2

All models are built on a new chassis that gives the 2023 Colorado a 3.1-inch-longer wheelbase than the current Crew Cab/short box model. A shortened front overhang contributes to a more aggressive stance and significantly improves the truck’s approach angle.

Within the trim packages, there is also a shift. First, the Trail Boss version is built off the work truck trim – this makes for a much more

affordable, yet distinctly competent off-roader. In fact, I expect this will be the meat of the market. The Z71, which has long been considered Chevy’s mainline off-roader, has migrated to a milder, luxury package. Now at the top of the ladder is the ZR2, a legit dirt brawler that will cost you - with all the expensive add-ons like a 3-inch lifted suspension and upgraded Multimatic DSSV dampers.

The new Colorado’s off-road and trailering capabilities are supported by up to five selectable drive modes (depending on the model). Each is tailored for different driving conditions, accessible using a knob located on the centre console. The five drive modes include:

• Normal: A balanced mode for everyday driving

• Tow/Haul: Transmission shift points, throttle response and additional calibrations for trailering and hauling

• Off-Road: Specific traction and dynamic performance features for general off-pavement driving

• Terrain: Designed for low-speed rock crawling, with three settings

• Baja: Developed for high-speed desert running.

The interior on the Colorado has been fully updated. A common layout runs through each trim model which I found made the WT nicer than before, while the upscale Z71 adds just enough to the interior appointments to set it apart. As you’ll see in the photos, the sheet metal has also been bent to create an angrier look on the Colorado. It’s a striking design and certainly attracts attention. In fact, this seems to be the current trend – though I’m not sure why every new truck needs to looked pissed off.

New and Enhanced Electronic Technologies

Colorado’s new 11.3-inch-diagonal infotainment screen is the gateway to new and innovative technologies — especially when trailering or driving off-road. Highlights include:

• Customizable and configurable screens

• Segment-first available Google built-in. With Google Assistant, Google Maps and Google Play, you get access to hands-free communications, live traffic updates and more.

• All-new Off-Road Performance Display: an available app that monitors real-time off-road performance with different readouts for Overlanding (altitude and GPS guidance), Terrain (pitch, roll and tire pressure) and Baja (g-force, wheel slip indicator and transfer case status) driving situations.

• Up to 10 camera views accessible on the infotainment screen — including a segment-first available underbody camera on Z71 and ZR2.

The new Colorado is now available for order at Canadian dealers, and we can expect trucks on dealer lots shortly. Here is the pricing for the whole line-up.

BUYERS’ GUIDE

BFGoodrich Trail-Terrain T/A

Description: BFGoodrich’s Trail-Terrain T/A features an optimized footprint design, with fulldepth 3D-locking sipes that provide excellent tread-block stability for even wear which results in longer tread life and a quiet, comfortable ride. The tire boasts the three-peak mountain snowflake symbol and is made to resist chipping and tearing during off-road driving.

Website: www.bfgoodrich.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

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 snowflake symbol.

Website: www.falkentire.com

General Tire Grabber A/T X

Description: General Tires’ Grabber A/T X tire provides exceptional off-road capability and durability but is well-balanced with 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.

2019 Honda Ridgeline Black Edition

Website: www.formuladistributors.com

Goodyear Wrangler Duratrac

Description: Goodyear’s Wrangler Duratrac features TractiveGroove Technology that offers enhanced traction in deep mud and snow, and self-cleaning shoulder blocks that clear the tread of debris for enhanced dirt, gravel and mud traction. The tire, which is available in a number of popular sizes, boasts highly-angled centre tread blocks that enhance traction and lateral stability while reducing road noise, and the rim protector helps protect wheels from accidental curb damage.

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

Mickey Thompson Baja Boss A/T

Description: Mickey Thompson’s brand new Baja Boss A/T delivers undisputed on-road handling, performance and tread wear while also dominating in the mud thanks to an asymmetric tread design which is optimized for reduced noise, all-weather performance and offroad 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 Nomad Grappler

Description: The Nitto Nomad Grappler is a versatile all-weather, cross-terrain tire and is made to provide comfort during highway driving with added traction during off-road driving situations. The double shoulder edge design helps stabilize the outer blocks for increased performance and reduces the chance of irregular wear, while the symmetrical tread pattern ensures dependable traction and the evacuation of rain, slush, mud or snow. The tire also features the three-peak mountain snowflake symbol.

2019 Honda Ridgeline Black Edition

Website: www.nittotires.ca

Nitto Recon Grappler

Description: The Nitto Recon Grappler A/T all-terrain light truck tire is able to maximize all-terrain traction while providing a smoother ride on pavement roads compared to other tires in this class. It is available in a good selection of original equipment sizes and a wider range of speed ratings. The combination of wide and narrow grooves in the centre of the tread help evacuate moisture for additional traction, and the large staggered outside tread blocks both add traction and provide an aggressive look.

Website: www.nittotires.ca

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 has 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 Tires Open Country M/T

Description: The light truck Open Country M/T mud terrain tire is designed for enthusiasts who require extra ground clearance, load-carrying capacity and off-road capability. As an added bonus, it also provides great on-road performance. It incorporates new production technology along with Toyo’s award-winning DSOC II Technology. What this means for you is levels of uniformity and durability unmatched by other mud terrain tires. This advanced balance and construction strength provides uncompromised control.

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

Lifestyle-Focused

2023 Rivian R1T

Story and photos by Dan Heyman

The Rivian R1T is one of those vehicles that, if I’m honest, kind of snuck up on me a bit. May not be the greatest admission for a pro car writer, but throughout its gestation, it was such a nebulous affair. What with the intervention – then non-intervention – of Ford, the crazy styling, then the fact that seemingly out of nowhere it arrived, beating Tesla’s Cybertruck to market by – well, we don’t know, really, because at the time of writing, the Tesla is still somewhat vapourware-ish.

Rivian, of course, is very quick to point out that their truck exists while the Tesla still doesn’t, and they are proud of it.

So they should be; their truck is here, after all, it looks great, comes with four EV motors – one per wheel – that produce 831 horsepower and 908 pound-feet of torque, is good for 465-525 km of range depending on spec (the truck seen here is at the lower end of the spectrum thanks to its off-road tires) and can be charged at up to 200 kW. Or, if you’d rather just charge as you drive, you can do so with two levels of brake regen; this can never be fully shut off and as a result, the R1T is in one-pedal drive mode all the time. That means that when at creep speeds (or even a little higher than that), you can simply release the throttle and the R1T will come to a complete stop.

Now, I’ve driven many one-pedal drive modes before, and I can’t recall the last time it felt this natural. It didn’t take me long to get used to when to release the accelerator to come to a complete stop and there were times where I had to remind myself after stopping that I had never actually hit the brake to do so. It even would when at higher speeds on twisty roads, although it will eventually cancel itself out if things get too fast.

Sure, the front-end with its full-width light bar and vertical headlamps is always going to be divisive but at least there’s some style there; the Ford F-150 Lightning, for its part, looks pretty much exactly like a standard F150 and that’s probably fine for many Ford

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PRODUCT CATEGORIES

buyers but here’s the thing - while these are both EV pickups, they are aimed at a pretty different buyer.

The F-150 is, for all intents and purposes, a truck that’s meant to work. It’s got its vehicle-to-load capabilities, its on-board generator, there’s the tailgate that has all sorts of attachment possibilities, and even inside, the shift lever folds away to allow for a massive, flat work surface.

The Rivian has its easter eggs as well, but they’re quite different in scope. Its interior is like a cross between MEC and Matt and Nat; there’s vegan leather everywhere (the company’s CEO, RJ Scaringe,

More practically, the interior is a very open and low-clutter space; like a Tesla, the main display – all 15 inches of it – is your go-to spot for pretty much everything. Your driver aids, your drive modes, your Gear Guard – more on what that is in a minute; that’s all here. Which typically, bums me out as I’m a bit of a traditionalist that prefers “hard” buttons but such is the way of the world these days in cars. At least in the Rivian, you don’t have to deal with a fingerprint-baiting touch panel, just a digital display.

There is one thing, however, that you adjust via the touchscreen that I’ve never seen, and that’s the mirror and steering wheel adjustment – sort of. To do so, you have to first tell the truck via the screen that you want to adjust the mirrors or wheel (it tilts and telescopes), then the two steering wheel buttons – typically reserved for your trip computer or audio adjustment – become your mirror or wheel adjustment. It’s no big deal, except for the fact that there’s no auto tilt-down mirrors when you select reverse. Typically, I’ll tilt them down on my own but since the backup cam takes up the whole display in the Rivian, you can’t immediately access the mirror controls. Apparently, auto tilt-down mirrors will eventually be coming, but this is where we’re at now.

Comfort-wise, the front cabin is a roomy, airy place (aided by a fulllength moonroof) that provides a good seating position and great view out. The rear seat doesn’t have quite the space of the F-150 (or the R1T’s R1S SUV twin), but it is roomy enough for two adults to sit comfortably and they have their own USB-C ports, and since the Rivian features a quad-zone climate control system, each back seat occupant gets their own climate controls, including heated seats.

is a vegan), bronzed buckles on the doors and front seatbacks look like they’re made from a repurposed MSR stove and even the keyfob is in on the deal, because it’s a carabiner. Well, not really, but it looks like one and that’s the point. There’s even a removable Bluetooth speaker with mounted USB-C port that uses the same tech the rest of the Meridian speakers found inside do. That’s another level, right there.

We’ve addressed the front end, but I have trouble believing anyone would have any problems with the rest of the exterior styling. The cabin gets an almost “chopped” look – that looks even cooler when you have the R1T set to its lowest ride height (the four-corner air suspension that allows this also keeps the Rivian flatter through corners) – the off-road wheels and tires on my tester are a good fit and shroud bright yellow brake calipers. That front end? Well, it’s futuristic but with what Kia’s

churning out these days, what Mercedes-EQ is churning out these days and so on, it seems it will be more in keeping with the rest of the car/light truck landscape before long.

Even though the R1T is obviously aimed at a more relaxed/recreational group, that’s not to say it can’t get some work done. The tow rating is 11,000 lbs. and you can get a tow hitch set-up. You can only have a 4.5-foot bed and there is not a bed extension upgrade, but mounted within the bed you have two 240V outlets, tie-downs – even an air compressor. If you decide to opt to skip the full-size spare option and go with the tire repair kit instead, you get additional storage beneath the bed floor that can be sealed if you want to store drinks, wet items and so forth. Theirs is not a real bed-access helper, though, like you might find in the F-150 or with Chevrolet’s CornerStep feature. Instead, Rivian recommends you keep the R1T at its access height before you start loading it.

There’s also a frunk, of course, and while you won’t find a generator there like you do in the F-150, there’s lots of room and additional underfloor storage for even more space.

About that “Gear Guard”: it’s not actually a mechanical feature but part of the infotainment system that uses the exterior cameras to “watch” what’s going on around you and warn you if someone’s approaching the pickup bed to perhaps lift something from it at a stoplight.

Of course, any perp looking to lift your wetsuit better do so before the light turns green because once you dip into the pedal of this thing, you’re flat-out gone. That, of course, is what the instantaneous release of over 800 horses and 900 – nine-hundred! – pounds-feet will do. You are off the line in a hurry and while I wouldn’t call the R1T a performance pickup – it does weigh about 7,000 lbs., after all – it’s fun to dip into that throttle pedal, that’s for sure.

The R1T zips along with gumption and with all that torque you don’t have quite the let-down when at speed as you do in some other EVs that can run out of puff as speeds increase. Less of a problem here, which I was pleased to find out. To show that there is actually some fun to be had when off the beaten track, however, Rivian has provided both Rally and Drift – yes, Drift – modes to allow you to tap into your inner hooligan when on more slippery stuff by changing the power delivery. It works quite well; Rally mode is truly something to behold, as it’s somewhat easier to enjoy than the ultra seat-of-your-pants Drift mode.

What really does it for the R1T, however, even with all that power and torque, is the handling. More specifically, it’s the steering, which feels almost hydraulically assisted as if you were driving a Nissan Frontier. It’s an uncanny feeling not just for a truck, but for an EV of any kind as they really do tend to isolate, isolate, isolate occupants as much as possible and that means making sure no unnecessary vibrations or what have you through the wheel. There’s not really any of that here, either, just a good amount of weight. The one thing I did fight with a little, however, was the lane-centring and lane keep assist system which I found too sensitive and was happy to turn off via iPhone-esque sliders in the menu. Those are just a couple of the functions controlled via that display, as there are no hard buttons to speak of on the dash. That would concern me as a worker that may need to be able to operate their truck with gloves on.

Once again, though, that’s not what the R1T is about. This is a lifestyle-focused vehicle meant to contend with the likes of the Jeep Wrangler 4xe and Land Rover Defender, according to Rivian. That means unique styling both inside and out – indeed, there are few vehicles more unique-looking than the Wrangler or Defender, until now with this Rivian. It is a darn cool thing that turns heads left, right and centre, can lift itself to go off road or lower itself down to be more fuel efficient on the highway. With all that cool kit inside, meanwhile, it is a truck that looks poised to carve its own niche in the fast-growing EV truck world, and is beating quite a few others to the punch while it’s at it.

New Generation

Story and photos by Benjamin Yong

Any Ford F-Series news is big news, and the buzz surrounding the blue oval brand’s Lightning model might just set a record. With the EV finally available on our shores following production delays and supply chain issues, Trucks Plus got a chance to take one out to see if the hype is real.

“For both Ford and the American auto industry, F-150 Lightning represents a defining moment as we progress toward a zero-emissions, digitally connected future,” says Bill Ford, executive chair, Ford Motor Company, in a press release when the variant was initially announced during the pandemic. “F-Series is America’s best-selling truck for 44 years, the backbone of work across the

2023 Ford F-150 Lightning

country, and a trusted icon for generations of customers. Now we are revolutionizing it for a new generation.”

Right off the bat one of the best things about the vehicle is the attention designers have paid to preserving its 75-year heritage. The signature squared-off shape and chiselled panels remain, but novel features are incorporated like the striking LED light bar framing the solid dark grille signalling to oncoming drivers the pickup is something special. And while not initially obvious, the company claims the latest product is the most aerodynamic yet boasting subtle enhancements including a sculpted hood and running boards to reduce drag.

Pressing a button to lift up the hood reveals what is billed as “a

versatile, high-tech mega power frunk offering dedicated storage space that’s secure, lockable and easily accessible by a powered open and close system.” This is no exaggeration — the 400 litres of water-resistant cargo area inside is easily capable of stowing a couple of sets of golf clubs. There are also four electrical outlets hooked up to 2.4 kilowatts of power, two USB chargers and a drainable floor should the desire to host a camping trip suddenly arise.

Elsewhere it’s largely business as usual; the truck is still constructed using copious amounts of aluminum, though the frame and suspension have been tweaked to support the surrounding electric architecture. Independent rear suspension replaces a traditional leaf spring setup and is a first for the segment.

The interior is as practical as ever providing comfortable seating for five and lots of dedicated space for personal belongings throughout the cabin. The rear bench flips, and underneath is a generous compartment perfect for stashing valuables away from prying eyes. Up front, the star of the show is a huge 15.5-inch portrait-oriented display running the SYNC 4A infotainment software.

Now onto the good stuff. Dual electric motors and four-wheel drive are standard. Two different battery versions are sold: a regular 98.0kilowatt-hour helps generate 452 horsepower and 370 kilometres of range, and an extended-range 131.0-kilowatt-hour boosting output to 580 horsepower and total travel distance to 515 kilometres found in our Lariat press loaner. Torque is rated at 775 lb-ft for both and the numbers are no joke — we tested the latter and the straightline performance is palpable. The reported 0 to 100 km/h time is around four seconds.

Another impressive stat is the 10,000-pound towing/2,000-pound payload capacity on extended-range XLTs and Lariats equipped with the Max Trailer Tow Package that improves the vehicle’s cooling systems. And then there’s all sorts of on-board gadgetry to assist haulers such as OnBoard Scales and Intelligent Range, which uses

integrated sensors to estimate the payload and then leverages GPS data to factor in weather, traffic, grade and more to give an accurate estimate of how far the Lightning will travel at any given time.

Those looking to do some off-roading in their $90,000 pickup may do so as an Off-Road setting is one of four drive modes, the other three

being Normal, Sport and Tow/Haul, optimizing throttle response and traction/stability control for driving on low-grip surfaces. Skid plates protect the powertrain, and the battery is housed in a weather-proof and crash-absorption casing.

Citing dramatic increases to raw material costs, the automaker has added $10,000 to the sticker price of the base model. The 2023 Ford F-150 Lightning is available in XLT ($79,000), Lariat ($90,000) and Platinum ($121,000) and orders can be placed at local dealers.

Base price (MSRP): $90,000

Type: pickup truck

Layout: ............................................ front engine, 4-wheel drive

Engine: two electric motors

Transmission: one-speed automatic

Power: ..................................................................... 580 hp (net)

Torque: 775 lb-ft (net)

Brakes: front/rear disc with ABS

Fuel Consumption (Le/100km, city/hwy ): 3.0/3.7

The Future

Winnebago eRV2

Story by Howard J Elmer, photos courtesy of Winnebago

Shown at the Tampa Super RV Show, the Winnebago eRV2 is a new Class B based on the all-electric Ford Transit van. So, while the Ford chassis provides all-electric propulsion, Winnebago adds its own proprietary IonBlade house battery system for an all-electric experience. They say this system could give you up to seven days of boondocking capability.

I was at the show this past January and had a chance to review and drive the eRV2. Let me first say that this is one of the most interesting RVs I’ve driven – that (unfortunately) you can’t buy. Currently the eRV2 is being field tested only.

After showing the eRV last year at Tampa, Winnebago has followed up with this new eRV2. This is now the most advanced all-electric, zero-emission RV anywhere. The point of having it at the show was to offer test drives and walk-thru’s. The comments collected from consumers (and reviewers like me) are just part of the rigorous field testing that will impact the eRV2’s final design before hitting dealerships in the future.

From a driving perspective, I can report two very distinct impressions from behind the wheel. One, the Transit drives like any Class B I’ve piloted before – size-wise and in its road manners. Two, the balance and feel of this Transit is unlike any Class B I’ve driven before. By balance, I mean how the body rides on the chassis; how it corners; and how it handles uneven surfaces. It’s rock-solid and rides dead flat.

The key to this sensation is the placement of the Ford battery pack (and the house battery). Both are placed low in the chassis, and spreading its weight evenly between front and rear axle gives the

Transit a planted feel unlike any other conventionally-powered van. This extreme low centre of gravity literally sticks the eRV2 to the road. It’s been said that it feels like it’s riding on rails – a comment I can attest to.

As to why did they build it? Well, Winnebago says it developed the eRV2 in response to growing demand for more sustainable forms of road travel.

“Our primary goal in building the eRV2 was to help people comfortably explore the world around them with less environmental impact,” said Huw Bower, president of the Winnebago brand. “The user experience was at the heart of this prototype’s development, through the early days of market research and even now as it goes through field testing. The eRV2 embodies our pioneering legacy, representing not only an achievement in design, innovation and sustainability, but also our commitment to continuously evolve with the changing needs of consumers and the world we share.”

Key Features and Benefits of the eRV2

• Both the powertrain and the house systems are powered by electricity, allowing for silent and environmentally responsible travel, and up to seven days of Boondocking, aided in part by 900-Watt solar capacity.

• It’s built on a Ford E-Transit chassis, which promises both powerful torque and smooth handling. The current generation of this chassis has a published range of 108 miles (170 km), well-suited for a pilot program. Winnebago is actively pursuing range extension opportunities to incorporate into a future commercial version.

• Winnebago partnered with Lithionics Battery to create a proprietary IonBlade lithium house battery which is the most powerful, compact and safe lithium battery system available today. It features a 48V system with more than 15,000 usable watt-hours, and a unique thin lay-flat design stored beneath the floor to maximize interior space. It meets the highest safety standards.

The eRV2 is sustainably designed to further reduce the impact on the environment.

• Recycled materials are used extensively throughout the interior, including in the flooring, removable floor mats, WinnSleep mattress system, and trimming around the window frames.

• Cab seat coverings are made with renewable plant-based materials.

• Acrylic countertops are made from biodegradable materials.

• Unique broad colour-spectrum lighting allows users to customize the interior lights from white to red, which helps to reduce light pollution and negative effects on native flora and fauna.

It’s built for maximum comfort and convenience, centred on modern user needs.

• The eRV2 interior is inspired by modern Japandi principles, a fusion of Japanese and Scandinavian design that creates a clean, calm and multi-functional environment.

• This includes a five-in-one sleep/lounge and two adaptable workspaces with built-in charge points and a high-speed Wi-Fi router for optimal data streaming.

Finally, the eRV2 is connected.

• The proprietary Winnebago Connect™ system allows users to easily monitor and control the vehicle’s electrical and energy management systems using a display inside the vehicle or an intuitive app that will work on your smart phone.

Looking at this pre-production model, I have to first compliment Winnebago on building a working electric RV. This eRV2 demonstrates not only what can be done – but it’s also a version of what’s to come. Winnebago is not waiting; they are determined to ride the coming wave. However, at the moment there are still some glaring issues that need to be addressed.

A driving range of 172 km on a full battery charge may work for a last-mile delivery van, but is not practical for an RV. Second, Win

BUYERS’ GUIDE

Anvil 12-Volt 4,500-lb. Winch

Description: Anvil’s 12-volt 4,500 lb. winches are ideal for use with ATVs, UTVs and Car Trailers and are powered by an efficient 3.5-horsepower 12-volt permanent magnet motor with a 3-stage planetary gear. Customers are given the option of a metal cable and 4-way roller fairlead or a synthetic rope and aluminum Hawse fairlead. The winch comes with a wireless remote control, mounting plate, solenoid and handle bar switch.

Capacity: 4,500-lb. capacity.

Website: www.holley.com

Bulldog 12.5k Alpha Truck Winch

Description: Bulldog’s 12.5k Alpha truck winch features a premium six-horsepower serieswound motor with overheating protection, along with an LED feedback light and auto reconnect. The winch features a wired hand control with a 12-ft. lead but has a wireless option available. The three-stage planetary gear train provides incredible pulling power and will help you get out of even the toughest of situations.

Capacity: 12,500 lbs.

Website: www.bulldogwinch.com

DK2 Warrior Samurai Series Winch

Description: DK2’s Warrior Samurai Series winches are electric-powered and have synthetic rope options available. They feature a high-quality series-wound double sealed motor with brass fittings, heavy-duty waterproof contactors, double-sealed drum on maintenance-free bearings, and quiet, efficient full-steel planetary gearing.

Capacity: 8,000 – 20,000 lbs.

Website: www.detailk2.com

Kodiak Winches The Cub EXT

Description: The Cub EXT Winch from Kodiak Winches by Quality Gear is rated at a 2,500lb max rated line pull, with a 3-horsepower, 12-volt DC motor plus a pre-wired handlebar switch with 8-ft of wire. The winch comes with 50-ft. of tough winch cable as well as a roller fairlead and hook. All assembly hardware is included to mount on your ATV or Side-by-Side, plus colour-coded cables for an easy hook up. The free spooling winch comes with the Bear Essentials Kit that feature a winch bag, two shackles, the glide roller, winch gloves and a 2-ton tree saver.

Capacity: 2,500-lb.

Website: www.gearcentre.com

Mile Marker Mission Series Winch

Description: Mile Marker’s new Mission Series winch is a military grade, 12-volt electric winch that has been trusted by the U.S. Military for over a decade. It features easy-to-use mechanics and an optional wireless remote and comes in three capacities including 8k, 10k and 12k. It is also available in 10 full coverage colours and 4 different patterns for a customized look.

Capacity: 8,000-, 10,000- and 12,000-lbs.

Website: www.milemarker.com

Mile Marker SEC15

Description: Mile Marker’s SEC15 premium winch is lightweight yet heavy on power, and features a compact design that is 25-percent less heavy than other winches in its class. The winch is fully-sealed, submersible, and water-, mud- and snow-proof, while the all-metal, 3stage planetary gear train provides the durability and reliability you need.

2019 Honda Ridgeline Black Edition

Capacity: 15,000 lbs.

Website: www.milemarker.com

Ramsey HDP 10000-X

Description: Ramsey Winch’s HDP 10000-X features a long drum and is best used with 7/16-in. cable. It is available with a blocked clutch and air shift and can hold up to 160-ft. of cable.

Capacity: Rated line pull 10,000 lbs.

Website: www.ramseywinch.com

Rugged

Ridge 10,000 lb. Trekker Winch

Description: Rugged Ridge’s 10,000 lb. Trekker Winch features a 5.6-hp series-wound motor that delivers consistent pull strength through a bulletproof 3-stage planetary gear drive. A 212:1 gear ratio provides quicker line speeds while an IP-68 waterproof rating protects the winches from water, dirt and sand. The winch is available with a wireless remote and 26-metre synthetic line or with a traditional steel cable and a weatherproof wired remote.

Capacity: 10,000 lbs.

Website: www.ruggedridge.com

Superwinch Terra 4500SR 12V Synthetic Rope Winch

Description: Superwinch’s Terra 4500SR winch is a truly sealed utility terrain vehicle winch assembly as all seals on the entire winch from the outmost end of the motor to the ergonomic free spool control knob all meet the IP67 rating. The 10-ft. handheld remote and the solenoid are also sealed at the same level which is ideal to keep water, mud, snow and dust from getting in. The 1.8 hp permanent magnetic motor features 3-stage planetary gearing with a 198:1 ratio.

Capacity: 4,500 lbs.

Website: www.superwinch.com

TrailFX Reflex Series Winches

Description: Off-road enthusiasts can tackle the challenges on the trail head with the Reflex Series winch from TrailFX. Pick your capacity - 8,000 lbs, 9,500 lbs, or 12,000 lbs. Crawl with confidence as Reflex Series winches meet IP68 standards for water resistance and feature a die-cast aluminum control box, powerful motor performance, wire or synthetic rope, as well as aluminum or four-way roller fairlead options and a wireless remote control. TrailFX winches have a limited lifetime warranty on mechanical components and a limited one-year warranty on electrical components.

Capacity: 8,000 lbs., 9,500 lbs., or 12,000 lbs.

Website: www.TrailFX.com

WARN AXON

Description: Available in 3,500, 4,500, and 5,500 lb. capacities, the AXON powersports winches from WARN feature industry-first technology called Motactor. This is a combination motor and contactor in one unit, saving massive amounts of time on installation, and keeping all components in one package. The winch is IP68 waterproof, and features an interactive remote that provides motor temperature and load feedback. The unique AXON 45Rc is a short-drum version that’s ideal for bigger UTVs that require a compact winch, too. AXON winches are available with wire rope or Spydura synthetic line.

Capacity: Available in 3,500, 4,500 and 5,500 lb. capacities.

Website: www.Warn.com

Rather Compelling

The INEOS Grenadier will hit Canadian Roads in 2023

Story

by Gerry Frechette, photos courtesy of INEOS

There must be many people out there who lament the move up-market in luxury, price and complexity of the world’s premium 4x4 SUVs. Two or three decades ago, one could buy a utilitarian off-roader with no more than what was necessary to be capable, reliable and comfortable, for the professional who needed a vehicle that could go anywhere.

A few of those people got together in the Grenadier Pub in London several years ago, and one of them, Sir Jim Ratcliffe, was and is the Chairman of INEOS, one of the world’s largest industrial companies, and an offroading fan and adventurer. He and his company had the resources to design, engineer and produce just such a vehicle, and INEOS Automotive Limited was formed and a senior team of automotive professionals assembled to bring the vision to reality with a fresh perspective of 4x4 development and manufacturing. The fruit of their labour, the INEOS Grenadier, is being launched this year in many world markets. We got

to drive it in its home market, the United Kingdom, specifically in the Scottish Highlands in the winter.

The product proposition from day one was that the design concept had to be no-frills, it had to have excellent off-road capability, and it had to be uncomplicated, durable, reliable and not expensive to repair.

Certainly, the Grenadier reminds one of a Land Rover or Mercedes GWagen from decades ago, and one has to think that is no coincidence. The body is all straight lines and flat surfaces, the better to maximize space within it, and to provide mounting points for all manner of offroading gear, some of which will be attached to the optional Utility Belt rail system on each side of the Grenadier. The roof bars and roof strips enable loads to be mounted and secured directly, without a roof rack. There are mounting points, wiring and interior switches already installed for accessory lighting. Just a few examples of how ready this vehicle is for being equipped to go far off the beaten path.

The Grenadier was engineered from the ground up to handle the rough stuff, and get back to civilization. Naturally, it is a body-on-frame design, with said frame being a simple but rugged ladder design to which are attached two beam axles with differential locks (by Eaton), a two-speed transfer case (by Tremec), permanent four-wheel drive, and a recirculating-ball steering system, which is “old tech” these days, but robust. None of this is especially conducive to vivid on-road performance; the Grenadier was solid and stable on the narrow country roads and highways of Scotland, but one was always aware of its slower reactions during cornering. The coil-spring suspension gave a comfortable ride, and the large brakes (by Brembo) were smooth and fade-free.

Under the hood in North America-destined Grenadiers is a BMW-sourced 3.0-litre turbo gasoline straight-six engine with 283 horsepower and 332 pound-feet of torque, backed by an 8-speed ZF automatic transmission with heavy-duty internals. Needless to say, this combination was impressively flexible and capable of moving the big Grenadier quite smartly in any conditions. We had the chance to drive a version with a BMW diesel

six, but unfortunately, since BMW is no longer selling diesels here, nor will INEOS. The company admits to other drivetrains being in development, for release in due course.

The Grenadier’s interior is very much a ‘form follows function’ approach, with all the comfort and safety one would expect, but little of the kind of luxury that other premium SUVs have gravitated to. INEOS has tried to keep things analogue and mechanical, with, for example, large well-spaced twist knobs that can be used while wearing gloves, but of course, there have to be electronics on board, in this case the Central Control System accessed by the 12.3-inch touchscreen, on which all info is displayed. Also, there is Apple Car Play and Android Auto. Available is Pathfinder off-road navigation, a bespoke, waypoint-based GPS guidance system that uses latitude and longitude.

Everyday vehicle controls, such as HVAC, are located in the centre stack under the screen, but look up, and you’ll see the overhead control panel, reminiscent of an old airliner, containing off-road switchgear and functions

such as the Off-Road and Wading Modes, the (optional) axle differential lock buttons, Downhill Assist, as well as prewired auxiliary switches which can be used for options or accessories such as winches or light bars.

The eight-way manually-adjustable cloth-and-vinyl Recaro front seats are very supportive, especially laterally in the backrest, for comfort in the rough going. The rear seats are very nearly as nice to spend time in, with adequate room for two adults (or three smaller folks). The rear cargo area is not huge, but certainly big enough for normal luggage, and accessed via swing-open doors of 70/30 size. As well, there are five drain plugs in the footwells, as the Grenadier’s interior can be hosed out, without risk of damaging electronics or wiring.

So, we mentioned the on-road driving impressions, but the Grenadier is optimized for off-tarmac work, and at this, it shines. We experienced just about every type of off-road low-traction situation you can imagine, from icy boulder-strewn hillsides both up and down, to muddy ruts, to several inches of snow, and the Grenadier handled them all with aplomb. We asked one of the engineers if any consideration had been given to air suspension to raise the body and yield more ground clearance, and he answered in the negative, as it would add complexity and cost, and not measurably improve the Grenadier’s off-road capabilities.

For North America, it is expected that the Grenadier will be available in two versions. The Fieldmaster is the more outdoor adventure-oriented model, with a few items considered luxurious by INEOS, like heated leather seats and alloy wheels. It would be more suited to be an everyday vehicle, while the Trialmaster model is more the hardcore off-roader, with equipment including steel wheels, raised air intake, exterior utility belt, and an auxiliary battery. In addition, it has what INEOS calls the Rough Pack, which adds front and rear differential locks and BFGoodrich All-Terrain KO2 tires. It is this last version that we base our driving impressions on.

All Grenadiers are built in Hambach, France, in the former Mercedes-Benz Smart factory. At this writing, the Grenadier’s Canadian price has not been confirmed, although when INEOS started taking reservations for the Grenadier a year ago, the base price was estimated to be in the mid-$80,000 range. So, one would think that most of the 1,000 or so people in Canada who have their names down for one will be looking at a low-six figure price tag for a well-equipped Grenadier.

Nor have dealers been confirmed. We are told to expect to be able to buy a Grenadier in at least Toronto, Calgary and Vancouver, and one would expect another few cities to be on the roster. The price and dealer info should be available by midyear, with deliveries beginning in the autumn.

In any case, the INEOS Grenadier looks to be a rather compelling 4x4 SUV proposition, for those who want only what is important to reliably and capably get the job done off-road, and none of the expensive frills most premium-brand SUVs have these days.

The Jeep Wrangler’s Electric Future

“4xeis the new 4x4,” says Jeep. With gas prices persisting at never-before-seen levels, and with electricity costs in Canada being some of the lowest in the world, it’s no wonder that more and more drivers are turning to EVs and PHEVs as their next vehicle purchase. Off-roaders seem to be no exception, with all but the most stalwart

traditionalists choosing a plug-in Jeep over existing gas-hungry V6 models. Gone too are the days of a diesel Jeep being the holy grail of performance and efficiency, thanks to unexplained price habits at the pump – and the several thousand dollar premium for the privilege of a diesel engine.

While $2.00 gas could end up being a temporary trend, the days of paying 89.9 at the pump are gone. Jeep is banking on that, too, as the whole model lineup is slowly becoming electrified in some kind of way. Even if gas prices return to ‘normal’ it might still make sense in the coming years to choose a Jeep with a battery, and not just for economic reasons. EV-exclusive features are appearing in 4x4 models all across the industry, in an effort to attract buyers at the upper end of the market toward spending more on an emission-free off-road rig.

It’s long been a fact that most Jeeps are daily driven – gone are the days of CJ-3 and CJ-5 models plying the farmer’s fields of America – and as a result the

Story by Spencer Whitney, photos courtesy of Stellantis

Wrangler has adapted in many ways. Better interiors, a quiet(er) ride, and improved handling, to name a few. But without a shift to independent suspension and a fully enclosed metal body, these models will still be noisy, leaky and unwieldy at freeway speeds. The percentage of Jeep owners who regularly remove their hardtop must be in the low teens, with the number of soft top models sold in Canada likely outnumbered 10-to-1 by their more hospitable counterparts. It’s very likely that Canadians would embrace a hard top Wrangler with open arms – but will they settle for better handling at the cost of off-road features?

Looking at Jeep’s current and future models shows a glimpse of what is to come for the next generation of Wrangler – speculatively code-named JM – and what we see is a trend toward a more comfortable, accessible ride for the car-buying public. 2022 saw a preview of the Jeep Recon EV, which goes on order sometime this spring for around $80,000. Pricey, but still close to what most people would pay for a fully-loaded Rubicon 4xe – a model that Jeep themselves never expected to be so successful. The Recon builds on that success while also testing out a new platform that could easily translate to the JM Wrangler – one that’s fully EV, but still ‘Trail Rated’ and with fun features familiar to any Wrangler owner.

While we may not see one on the streets until 2024, the Jeep Recon is the brand’s bold push toward a new type of 4x4 – and its first fully electric mid-size SUV. On first glance, you might think it’s a modern-day replacement for the classic Cherokee of the 80s and 90s. Looking closer, it features many Wrangler-like attributes, including removable doors, retracting roof, and tailgate-mounted spare tire. While everyone loves a convertible, it’s not often you see a topless Wrangler – hard tops are cumbersome and not easily removed once you’ve added something like a roof rack.

Despite the resistance of many traditionalists, it’s clear that EVs and PHEVs are Jeep’s future – and that’s not necessarily a bad thing (maybe you can convince your TJ-driving Uncle Joe to take a second look.) EVs offer the possibility of independently-powered wheels, a configuration that allows a 4x4 EV to effortlessly transition from 2WD to 4WD in real time, and eliminates the need for locking differentials

– each motor would know exactly how much traction it has and defer power to the wheel with grip. There’s also no need for a low-range transfer case, given the immediate availability of full torque on an electric motor before it’s even completed one revolution.

A fully-electric Wrangler isn’t new - the ‘Magneto’ concept was previewed way back at Easter Jeep Safari in 2021, but was never pushed to market. Essentially just a regular JL with an electric motor

– but they love the look and utility of a 4x4. Instead, we may see the Wrangler diverge in to two similar but distinct products, sharing a body and drive system but with drastically different suspension and axle setups. Could the base-tier Wrangler have fully independent suspension while retaining key 4x4 features thanks to dual motors? What about for the enthusiasts – they might want a design that still reserves the option of gas engine, solid axles, and a traditional transfer case. Keep speculating and even a 2WD Wrangler (last seen in 2010) makes sense as an efficient and cost-effective EV.

The options are indeed limitless but at some point, Jeep will have to decide what the future of the Wrangler is, and how they’ll meet the needs of new customers while keeping existing enthusiasts from looking at other options. With a brand identity that embraces authenticity, Jeep is sure to be sensitive to the needs of its most vocal champions – those who could easily turn on the maker if they don’t hit the mark with the JM. If the past is any indication, Jeep will be successful at this mission – there’s no reason that any future Wrangler wouldn’t be held to the same high standard that the JL series is today.

in front of a stock 6-speed manual transmission, the Magneto is perhaps not a good portrait of what’s to come. Instead, we should look to Europe, where several PHEVs and EVs are making themselves known – last year we saw the subcompact Jeep Avenger EV make its debut, along with 4xe versions of the Renegade and Compass. (The sudden availability of these models is likely due to their shared platform with other Stellantis vehicles already engineered in EV form.) These models may appear in North America based on market needs, but the real focus is on a Wrangler replacement for now.

Could the Recon replace the Wrangler? Short answer – yes. It ticks many of the boxes that adventure-seekers look for in a vehicle that matches their lifestyle. Most of these buyers are not worried about things like lockers, rock sliders, or solid axles with custom gear ratios

Full Value

The Jeep Compass Trailhawk lives up to its name

Story and photos by Dan Heyman

The Jeep Compass has had an interesting gestation.

It started out as a small, funky alternative to the Grand Cherokee and Liberty and that was fine, but awkward front end styling veered a little too far into the soft roader realm and you kind of had a feeling that they tacked the customary Jeep seven-slat grille on there to remind you that it was, in fact, a Jeep.

Then, in 2011 it got a facelift to bring it more in-line with the Grand Cherokee of the era and that was good, but still not quite there.

Fast forward to 2018 and an all-new Compass was released. Once again, they turned to one of its bigger brothers for inspiration – this time, it was the Cherokee – and finally, it hit the mark. It became a great mix of tough and trendy and in doing so, brought the Compass into a more rugged realm. With my tester, that’s taken further thanks to its Trailhawk specification, which is much more than a stylistic upgrade. It rides higher, the Falken Wildpeak off-road tires are chunkier, it gets twin red tow hooks up front

and a single item out back, there are some pretty skookum graphics on the hood and the all-important “Trail Rated” badge on the front fenders, a badge you can get only if you’ve upgraded to Trailhawk spec. With its squared-off fenders, blacked-out grille and two-tone wheels, meanwhile, this Compass may be a compact-slash-subcompact crossover, but it looks like it will take quite a lot to stop it. It looks great, and It seems I’m not the only one; when Toyota released the TRD Trail version of its ultra-popular RAV4, you have to think the Compass made a pretty good target for them to aim at.

Inside the Compass, meanwhile, the Trailhawk comes equipped with premium vinyl seats that get cloth inserts and contrasting red stitching and wouldn’t look out-of-place in something much more luxurious. There is more of the stitching on the dash, steering wheel and armrest, and a 8.4inch display that is just big enough for the environs. The shift lever is a little on the chunky side, though, and all that piano black ‘round said shifter is a dust magnet. The digital gauge cluster, meanwhile, can easily be swapped between analogue and digital looks, and the various information on display there can be cycled through by pressing a button that minimizes everything and lets you browse the menus.

Speaking of that central display, it’s where you’ll find your Uconnect infotainment, which remains one of the better interfaces in the business. The graphics are big, the touchscreen is responsive and a band at the base of the display features shortcuts to your favourite apps and menus. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, meanwhile, are both wireless and CarPlay – which I tried – worked seamlessly, hooking up as soon as I started the engine before I even thought about it. There’s also a wireless charge pad at the base of the centre stack. It works as a charger, but also makes for a handy storage bin if you don’t require it for its native purpose.

The way that all works is a nice microcosm of the rest if the Compass; the cupholders both in the centre area and on the doors are big enough to fit most containers, with the door items fitting water bottles I always have trouble fitting in the same spot on other vehicles. If I had one complaint about the storage, it’s that the bin beneath the armrests between the front seat is on the small size. Not so much in terms of depth; more in terms of the size of the opening itself.

As far as occupant comfort is concerned, both the back and front seats

2022 model pictured

have the space, but it’s more about how the space is used. There are very few sharp edges or corners to strike errant knees or elbows on, so getting in and out is easier – that’s a big deal in smaller vehicles. Even with the full-length moonroof, headroom is also generous enough that adults will be fine in the back for small or even medium-sized folks. The seat padding should be good for most any body size, but I could have used a little more bolstering because with that leather, it can be a little slidey. A small detail, but one I couldn’t quite shake.

Of course, this being a compact crossover, most probably aren’t too bothered about how much they can comfortably wind through sport car-spec backroads. In a vehicle that’s Trail Rated and adorned with those now very recognized Trailhawk badges, they will likely be going off road, and you do need seat support for that application.

Speaking of off-roading: in Trailhawk form, the Compass gets increased approach and departure angles, with the former almost doubling that of the standard Compass. You’ve also got more ground clearance and an improved breakover angle, which is all very indicative of a pretty serious conversion. Add the Jeep Active Drive Low 4x4 system with its 20:1 crawl ratio, and you see just how well – on paper – the Compass Trailhawk should be in off-road settings.

So, naturally, I had to try it out.

I took it on one of my favourite forestry roads where I’ve tested everything from Volvo V90 Cross Country wagons to Nissan Frontier Pro-4X pickup trucks, fully expecting the Compass to give it the Scout’s try. With that short wheelbase, though, and just the fact that it’s a bit of a lightweight, I thought it would be just a little overmatched.

Right away, I found out that it was not.

The beginning of the run is filled with little divots in the washboard surface that tend to rattle and shake a vehicle like nobody’s business, to the point where I’ve had to really grab hold of the wheel lest I get suddenly bounced off the road. In the Compass Trailhawk, though, these were taken with relative ease and no drama. Sure, rustic as it is, the road does get maintained a little and perhaps that pockmarking had been a bit improved, but the bottom line was that I could see the holes, but not feel them anywhere near as much as I thought I would. Hardly any mirror or cowl shake, never hit the bump stops and the Compass just displayed huge confidence pretty much the whole way.

It’s done with little electronic trickery, too; there are four drive modes, but there isn’t one that’s of the “gravel” variety, which is what’s best suited for this surface. The closest would be “snow” mode, so I went with that and it was fine, but that’s more about the suspension and chassis tuning than it was about electronic aids.

On the power front, the Trailhawk doesn’t see any changes over the standard vehicle and makes use of a 2.4-litre Tigershark Multiair four-banger. That’s a pretty fancy sounding name, but at 177 horsepower and 172 pound-feet of torque, I wouldn’t call it a power monster, necessarily. Those

specs are fine, but even though it comes paired with a nine-speed auto, it does get a little stressed when you are really getting on it while passing or climbing at highway speeds. It starts to yell more, starts to hunt for gears more and just feels a bit out-of-sorts. This was never something that bothered me when off-roading or moving through town, though, which is fine but typically when off-roading, you do have to take a highway to get there.

Darned if the Compass Trailhawk isn’t incredibly good in situations in which it’s meant to excel, though. This little baby – well not baby; toddler, perhaps – crossover is full-value for the Trailhawk name and don’t let anyone tell you different. Good on Jeep for taking that badge and the Trail Rated badge and ensuring that any vehicle to which they’re attached is worth the badge, even at this level.

GEARING UP

Truxedo B-Light Truck Bed Light Strips

CURT’s New ActiveLink Innovative Cargo Management System

CURT has recently launched a new cargo management system called ActiveLink that allows for quick and easy installation of a variety of cargo management accessories onto a vehicle’s rear receiver hitch. The system utilizes a unique-quick connect shank that is fully universal and allows a variety of ActiveLink accessories to be quickly installed. The ActiveLink system will feature a variety of accessories for everyday adventures such as cargo and bicycle carriers.

For more information please go to www.curtmfg.com

BOLT Lock Product Line for Ram ProMaster Vans

BOLT Lock is now offering products for the 2014-2022 Ram ProMaster Vans that are specifically designed to work with the centre-cut keys of these vans. Receiver locks, coupler pink locks, padlocks, cable locks and trailer coupler locks are all available and utilize BOLT’s “Breakthrough One-Key Technology” which programs the lock to the vehicle’s ignition key the first time the key is inserted into the lock cylinder. The cylinder will then be uniquely coded with the help of spring-loaded plate tumblers which are specific to each ignition key.

For more information please go to www.boltlock.com

Truxedo’s B-Light truck bed light strips are a flexible, easy-to-use, waterproof lighting solution that can be used just about anywhere. Installation is simple and quick and utilizes the flexible LED strip and 3M adhesive backing. The lights are available in either a 18- or 36-in. strip and its simple nature allows it to be mounted

just about anywhere including truck beds, toolboxes or any dark space. They are powered by 3-AA batteries and feature a 5-minute auto shutoff.

For more information please go to www.truxedo.com

Bully Dog GT Gas and Diesel

Bully Dog’s GT Gas and Diesel tuners unlock more horsepower and torque to meet the unique demands you put on your vehicle. With preloaded tuning, you can plug ‘n play. The built-in “Driving Coach” feature helps improve driving habits for better fuel mileage. Customizable gauges track performance, and a wide variety of hauling and off-roading, all while giving you plenty of power to take on tough jobs, or improved fuel economy for long highway hauls.They read and clear DTCs with ease, and track critical performance data in real-time on easy-to-navigate virtual gauges. They are available for a wide variety of late-model trucks and SUVs.

For more information please go to www.bullydog.com

WeatherTech BumperTopper

WeatherTech’s BumperTopper protects your vehicle’s rear bumper from scratches, scuffs and wear in general caused by everyday loading and unloading of cargo. The product is made of impact-resistant plastic and attaches to your bumper’s surface with adhesive strips. A centre indication mark makes installation easy and accurate and the BumperTopper features an application-specific design for a custom fit. In addition to providing protection, the product can also be used to cover up any already existing damage to the bumper.

For more information please go to www.weathertech.ca

Speed of Air (SoA) Engine Technologies Hyperformance Pistons

Speed of Air Engine Technologies’ new Hyperformance Pistons are made to enhance the efficiency of medium-duty Cummins, Powerstroke and Duramax engines by providing performance and fiscal benefits. They increase torque and horsepower while also reducing emissions and greatly improving fuel economy. These improvements help extend engine life and reduce service intervals. The pistons feature indentations on the piston top called turbulators or dimples that create a thinner, well-attached boundary layer between the air-fuel mixture which allows the combustion flame front to burn much closer to the cool metal walls of the combustion chamber, increasing combustion efficiency.

For more information please go to www.soapistons.com

Pop & Lock CAT-RAP Catalytic Converter Security Device

Catalytic Converter theft is seemingly back on the rise as they can be stolen in less than a minute, leaving vehicle owners with a costly repair. Pop & Lock have recently introduced a new product called the CATRAP which is made to protect your vehicle’s catalytic converter from theft. The CAT-RAP’s innovative design creates individual security loops through each channel of the security plate making it difficult to defeat. The optimized cable length provides flexibility for wrapping techniques while installing, which requires no drilling or welding. The product is made from all stainless steel components and is compatible with many vehicle platforms.

For more information please go to www.vehiclesecurityinnovators.com

GEARING UP

McGard 5-Lock Sets for Exterior Spare Tires

McGard 5-Lock wheel lock sets for exterior spare tires are ideal for vehicles that utilize a rear mounted, exterior spare tire carrier such as Jeeps. The sets are identical in every way to McGard’s legendary 4lock sets but contain the extra one to keep your spare tire safe, and utilize the same matching key for all five locks. The sets are available in a few different sizes and feature either a chrome or matte black finish.

For more information please go to www.mcgard.com

Westin Automotive XTS Rock Sliders

Westin Automotive’s new XTS Rock Sliders provide outstanding protection from rocks and other trail hazards and feature a custom profile to match your Ford Bronco or Jeep Wrangler’s contour for enhanced protection and great styling. The sliders are constructed from 12-gauge steel channel combined with a 1-3/4-in. diameter, .120-in. thick wall round tube for ultimate durability. They come with bolt-on step plates with polyuria texture coated grip surfaces for slip resistance and utilize an electrostatic base coat for superior corrosion resistance.

For more information please go to www.westinautomotive.com

Steelcraft Jeep Spare Tire Relocation Kit

Steelcraft’s Jeep Spare Tire Relocation Kit relocates your Jeep’s OE tire carrier to allow it to fit up to a 25-in. tire and strengthens your tailgate by spreading the load from the centre to the hinges. The kit retains the OE back-up camera location and features a 100-percent bolt-on installation with no drilling required. It is designed to work with both OEM and Steelcraft bumpers and will provide extra clearance between oversized tires and rear parking sensors.

For more information please go to www.steelcraftautomotive.com

Flowmaster American Thunder Cat-Back Exhaust System for Jeep Gladiator Diesel

Flowmaster is now offering its American Thunder Cat-Back exhaust system for the 20212023 Jeep Gladiator trucks with the 3.0L diesel engine. The system is manufactured using durable 409 stainless steel and boasts 3.00-in. mandrel-bent pipes for better exhaust gas flow. The system removes the Gladiator’s muffler for an aggressive to moderate sound level and maximum performance, while also providing additional ground clearance for driving off-road. The system also provides performance increases of 3 horsepower and 5 lb-ft of torque over stock.

For more information please go to www.holley.com

Tuffy Security

Heavy-Duty Storage

Option for Ford Bronco

Tuffy Security

Products is now offering a new line of storage options for the 2021-2023 Ford Bronco that includes a Centre Console Safe, Tailgate Table, a Cargo Drawer and a Security Trunk Lockbox. The products are all custom designed to fit the Bronco and keep valuables out of sight for added security. The Console Safe is made of welded steel with a double bitted cam lock and simply slides in your vehicle’s empty centre console and blends with OEM styling. The Tailgate table is available for both 4- and 2-door models, while the Cargo Drawer is exclusive to 4-door models and the Trunk Lockbox exclusive to 2-door models.

For more information please go to www.tuffyproducts.com

Wilwood Releases Aero6-DM

Direct-Mount Brake Kits for Ford F-150 and Raptor

Wilwood Disc Brakes has engineered direct-mount, bolt-on brake upgrades that are designed to fit most 17-in. or larger wheels on the 2010-2018 Ford F-150 (and related SUVs), 2010-14 SVT Raptor and the 20172022 Raptor. The kits provide more holding power and easier modulation at low speeds and more thermal capacity for all types of highway and offroad applications such as towing, hauling or commercial use. The forged aluminum Aero6DM six piston Aerolite calipers deliver improved clamping force and are compatible with OEM rear brakes, master cylinder, ABS and computer systems. The rotors also substantially increase braking performance when paired with new Wilwood BP-Q ceramic-based, dual-sport SmartPad brake pads that are formulated for everyday or performance driving. The kits include a Wilwood stainless steel braided flexline kit.

For more information please go to www.wilwood.com

STUCK TRUCKS

Might take a couple more trucks to pull this thing out of there.

This is going to be some rescue, that is some thick mud!

The good ol’ boys are on the case!

At least he’s finding some humour in the situation.

At least these guys came prepared.

May have been wise to stay on the trail rather than veer off.

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!