Trucks Plus February-March 2023

FRESH TRACKS

Ram 1500 Revolution Battery-Electric Vehicle (BEV) Concept Unveiled at CES 2023

The Ram Truck brand recently unveiled its Ram 1500 Revolution Battery-Electric Vehicle (BEV) at CES 2023 that provides a glimpse into the future of the brand with a ton of innovative features that will be seen in future Ram trucks. A production version is said to be ready in 2024 as the brand moves to offer a portfolio of fully electrified options. “The Ram 1500 Revolution BEV Concept is our clearest signal yet that we’re on the precipice of something extraordinary at Ram and points directly to where we’re going on our electrified journey,” said Mike Koval Jr., Ram brand CEO – Stellantis. “At Ram, we’ve redefined what pickup trucks can be, and we will do so again by pushing past what competitors are offering by delivering the best electric pickups on the market.” The Ram 1500 Revolution BEV Concept features an ultra-futuristic exterior design that offers new features such as a powered frunk for added storage, a powered charge port door, flush-mounted handles and a powered rear step with active diffuser. Familiar Ram features are also prominent including a power multi-function tailgate and a large RamBox. The truck sits on 35-in. tires and rides on 24-in. wheels that are provided plenty of clearance thanks to the suspension’s self-leveling capability. Inside the concept truck, Ram has designed what they are calling a “one space environment” that utilizes one continuous space front to back that allows for several different interior configurations. A significantly more spacious interior and greater cabin length are provided thanks to the proportions of the all-new STLA Frame EV platform on which the Ram 1500 Revolution BEV Concept is built. The truck features all-new mid-gate mounted jump seats with a removable lower section for placement in the bed or outside the vehicle. The Ram 1500 Revolution BEV Concept features all-wheel drive capability and is powered by two electric drive modules (EDMs) which are found toward the front and rear of the vehicle to maximize interior space and are designed to accommodate possible larger capacity EDMs. The truck can add up to

160km of range in approximately 10 minutes with 800-volt DC fast charging at up to 350 kW. Along with the truck itself, Ram also introduced a Ram Charger inductive robot charger that can detect the vehicle’s presence and its charging needs, automatically moving itself into position to begin charging. Lots more information will come out between now and an all-electric Ram’s scheduled 2024 launch, and we will be sure to keep you up to date with the latest and greatest.

Volume 16, Issue No. 1

February / March 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

Benjamin Yong

CONTACT INFORMATION

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

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EMAIL: info@rpmcanada.ca

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Second Class Mailing Agreement #40050183

2023 Chevrolet Silverado ZR2 Named Canadian Truck King Challenge Winner

After extensive testing and comparison, the principals behind the Canadian Truck King Challenge and the Truck King YouTube channel, have decided to award the 2023 Chevrolet Silverado ZR2 its top honour.

“This the best truck, all around, for today,” said Howard J Elmer, founder of the Challenge. “We were impressed with the Silverado ZR2’s overall performance – off-road as well as on. We felt this truck would work five days a week and play on the weekend – and do it all really well.”

For 2023 Chevy added its ZR2 off-road treatment to its Silverado. This truck has front and rear e-lockers, a special fascia and the Multimatic DSSV damped shocks. This is what sets a ZR2 apart from a standard Silverado. These suspension upgrades, enhanced off-road technology and body work developed for off-road performance make it very capable whether desert running or rock crawling. In addition to its functional features, the Silverado ZR2 is distinguished by several aesthetic cues, including a new black hood insert, a unique grille with integrated lighting and a “flow-tie” emblem, ZR2 badges, unique 18-inch wheels and a unique Jet Black/ Graystone leather-trimmed interior, with complementing dark trim. A unique bumper has removable end caps for easier replacement and the dual exhaust has been lifted and ends before the rear bumper to eliminate potential damage. However, note that the ZR2’s off-road traits are counter-balanced with good everyday driving comfort. It is also important to note that this balanced combination of on and off-road performance does not impact payload and trailering. ZR2’s max payload is 1,440 lb. and it will tow 8,900 lb. Inside, the new look and feel of the Silverado interiors are elevated with new colours, seat designs and more premium materials throughout. That’s especially true for the top-level High Country trim.

For all these reasons, we felt the 2023 Chevrolet ZR2 deserved to by our Canadian Truck King Challenge truck of the year.

2023 Chevrolet Silverado ZR2 highlights include the following:

• Standard 6.2L V8 delivering 420 hp and 460 lb.-ft. of torque

• 10-speed automatic transmission

• Multimatic 40mm DSSV spool-valve dampers, which feature:

• Three separate spool valves to control damping

• Three connected chambers for fluid flow

• Uniquely-tuned springs that, with the Multimatic dampers, increase maximum front and rear suspension travel, compared to the Silverado Trail Boss

• Front and rear e-lockers

• Specific off-road chassis and suspension calibrations, including Terrain Mode, which allows one-pedal rock crawling

• 33-inch off-road MT tires

• Unique skid plate package

• New high-approach steel front bumper designed for off-road strength and clearancewith 31.8-degree approach angle Story by Truck King Media

Ford Retains North American Truck of the Year Award for 2023

The Ford F-150 Lightning all-electric pickup has been named the North American Truck of the Year which is the third straight win for Ford in the category. “Earning North America’s Truck of the Year is huge for the team that has been working so hard to build and deliver as many Lightnings as possible, as quickly as possible,” said Jim Farley, Ford president

and CEO. “We’re moving fast to further ramp production to a 150,000 run rate this fall and pushing to improve every aspect of this truck. We’ve started delivering Lightnings from the factory with a fantastic new user interface update to improve the driver experience that we’ll also roll out to all of our Lightning owners over-the-air.” In order to be eligible to win North American Truck of the Year, vehicles must be completely new or substantially changed for the year, and is selected by a jury of 50 professional automotive journalists from across North America. Winners are chosen based on innovation, design, safety, performance, technology, user experience, driver satisfaction and value.

Ram adds 2023 Ram 1500 TRX Havoc Edition to Light-Duty Lineup

Ram Truck has announced the newest addition to its light-duty pickup truck lineup with the 2023 Ram 1500 TRX Havoc Edition that comes with an exclusive new Baja Yellow colour. The truck offers performance truck buyers an even wider selection of unique content for even greater personalization. The Ram 1500 TRX Havoc Edition enhances the TRX Level 2 Equipment group and includes the exclusive exterior colour, 18-in. beadlock-capable wheels, dual pane panoramic sunroof, spray-in bedliner and an LED cab-mounted brake light. Inside, the TRX Havoc Edition includes yellow accent stitching, embroidered TRX logo seats, carbon fibre accents, carbon fibre flat-bottom steering wheel and a unique centre console badge. The truck will of course feature the 6.2L supercharged HEMI V8 engine and is set to become available sometime in the first quarter of this year.

Jeep Adding Pair of Special Edition Models to Wrangler Lineup

For 2023, Jeep will be offering Wrangler High Tide and Wrangler Jeep Beach special-edition models with the Beach model commemorating the 20th anniversary of Jeep Beach in Daytona Beach, Florida which is an annual gathering of thousands of Jeep fans. “Jeep Beach week in Daytona Beach, Florida, is one of the biggest Jeep vehicle events in America, bringing in more than 200,000 Jeep fans and 20,000 Jeep SUVs in 2022 alone,” said Jim Morrison, senior vice president and head of Jeep brand – North America.

“With the Wrangler High Tide and 20th anniversary Jeep Beach

special editions, we get to celebrate our customers’ passion for beach-ready vehicles during this weeklong event.” The Wrangler High Tide is based on the Sport S model and powered by the 3.6L Pentastar V6 and eight-speed automatic transmission and features a long list of special-edition equipment. This includes the Xtreme Recon Package which adds 35-in. BF Goodrich T/A K02 tires, 17x8

beadlock-capable wheels, 4.56 rear axle ratio, 1.5-in. factory suspension lift with uniquely-tuned shocks, plus a body-colour hardtop, LED headlamps and fog lamps, rock rails, sand/slush mats and High Tide hood decals. The Jeep Wrangler Beach model will be even more special edition than High Tide models with only 500 being built and will feature special equipment such as Jeep Beach hood decals, Mopar Katzkin leather seats, body-colour fenders, a special 20th anniversary shifter medallion and a Jeep Beach swing gate.

Eye-Watering Power

The 2023 Ford Raptor R gets 700 hp from its supercharged V8!

The Ford F-150 Raptor is already an F-Series in beast mode. Even when it dropped two cylinders and added two turbos for the 2017 model year, it had all the good stuff that made the Raptor what it was, just with more power and requiring less fuel.

Here’s the thing, though. When it comes to halo vehicles like a version of a vehicle that has been a top-seller – well, the top seller, really – in Canada for over 50 years, people tend to vote with their heart more than their brains. That means that even if the sixer made more power and even if it used less gas and even if they used computers to make

Story and photos by Dan Heyman

it sound like a V8, it was never going to be quite the same. Having driven it, I tend to agree. It’s a great truck, but… …there’s a reason they’ve come out with the “R” version for 2023. It gets a V8, and not just any V8, but a supercharged 5.2-litre “Predator” V8 shared with the most powerful Ford ever to hit showrooms, the latest Shelby GT500 Mustang. That means – wait for it – seven-HUNDRED horsepower and 640 pound-feet of torque. That is an eye-watering number and while the Ram 1500 TRX makes a little more, forget about it. This thing is as crazy as a truck that feels like seven times 100 hp should feel.

The engine has been detuned a little from the GT500 to be better equipped for more “truck” things – like being able to tow up to 8,200 lbs., for example – and the suspension has been modified to be able to accommodate the heavier engine. You do get the Fox Live Valve suspension the standard Raptor gets, though, which means your dampers are reading the ground below in milliseconds and constantly adjusting to what’s going on there. In practice, that means the Raptor R rides almost like a standard F-150 on the road, but can buck up when the time comes to start smashing through sand dunes in Baja mode.

Ahh, Baja mode. What it does is allow for more power to be sent to the rear wheels as well as allow for more slip, meaning hairy drifts are that much easier to pull off. I wasn’t on any kind of fast off-road course but I was driving through snow and had ample opportunity to let the rear end swing out, which is a ton of fun even at slower, more controllable speeds.

Keep in mind, however, that the Raptor R might not be the first choice when it comes time to tackle slow off-roading, Rubicon Trail-style. It has the Trail Turn Assist feature that reduces your turning radius by braking the inside wheel so you can swivel ‘round like a tank, but you can’t disconnect the sway bars like you can in a Ford Bron-

This winter say no to snow and yes to WeatherTech. Just like a snowflake, the WeatherTech FloorLiner has unique curves and contours designed to perfectly fit the floor of your specific vehicle. But instead of leaving you with cold feet and soggy carpets, the WeatherTech FloorLiner will keep your boots clean and your carpets pristine. And with a lifetime guarantee, it’s tough enough to handle any winter adventure for as long as you own your vehicle.

co, for example, or even a Jeep Grand Cherokee Trailhawk. No, the Raptor R is all about ludicrous speed on ludicrous roads.

Indeed, it is just so very satisfying to plant that right foot, hear the supercharger wail as it comes on boil and fling yourself down the road at a pace that can only be described as torrid. When you’re doing that kind of speed on 37-inch off-road tires (your only choice; the 35s found on the standard Raptor aren’t available here) suspended by Fox dampers in Baja drive mode with your hair on fire, there are few words.

It’s hammered to all four wheels via a 10-speed automatic transmission with a manual shift mode, and even the paddles used to operate said ‘box are special, being crafted from real magnesium and measuring six inches if they measure one. Even their action feels like something you’d find in a low-slung sports car.

Same goes for the seats, if not the seating position; these are specialized sports seats developed in partnership with Recaro that are comfortable and supportive. Other interior bits like carbon fibre inserts, some contrast-colour stitching and a steering wheel

DRIVEN TO KEEP YOU MOVING

GROW WITH US

Lordco Auto Parts has undergone many changes over its 48 years, but nothing compared to the opening of its 328,194-square-foot distribution centre in 2022. Designed for today and future growth, the center supports semi-autonomous order pickers and autonomous robotic forks and has room to scale operations by up to fifty percent. More than a state-of-the-art distribution center, the new building symbolizes our commitment to modernize, expand and grow our business alongside yours.

with a red centring band all serve to drive the point home that this ain’t your carpenter’s F-150.

Thing is, depending on how moneyed they are, your carpenter could probably use it as a work truck; it has Ford’s patented bed access system, the tailgate with rulers, c-clamp spots, cupholders

Here’s the thing, though – and we’re not talking about the 20L/100 km of 91 octane it uses in the combined cycle. That thing…is called the Ram TRX. That starts at around the same price the non-R Raptor does (as tested, my truck rings in at about $150,000, 50 grand more or so than the Raptor or TRX), with a V8 that has more power than the R’s does. Even that’s not really the problem, though; both of these trucks are insanely powerful. The problem is that the TRX is just more…everything. It’s louder – especially in the supercharger whine department – it’s more aggressively styled (thank you hood scoop-mounted marker lights), it adds a “jump” setting to its drive modes and has a nicer interior. In this game, words like “louder”, and “wilder” matter and the TRX hits those targets that much harder.

If you’re looking for an extreme off-road pickup that’s more a jack of all trades, then the Raptor R is for you. If you’re looking for max crazy and to save a few bucks, however, the TRX has it.

and iPad holders as well as bed lights and power outlets. Wild as it is, you could see it as a built-for-use pickup.

On top of all that, you also get the interior goods that make the F-150 as popular as it is. Stuff like a 12-inch infotainment display with wireless Apple CarPlay and Bang & Olufsen sound, flat rear floor or the shift lever that folds away to make room for a two-foot long work surface. Not only is it powerful, but I’d argue that it’s almost as practical as any other truck in the line-up and to put a bow on all this, you can drive it around town at pedestrian speeds (with the exhaust note turned to “Quiet”; “Normal”, “Sport” and, of course, “Baja” are also available) perfectly comfortably.

Designed for anyone to install, the Cat-Rap™ catalytic converter security device will help prevent against theft!

BUYERS’ GUIDE

AMP Research Powerstep Smart Series Electric Running Boards

Description: AMP Research has recently introduced the PowerStep Smart Series electric running boards for trucks and SUVs, developed with handheld technology and aesthetics in mind. The design of the boards will complement just about any truck or SUV they are installed on, and the in-app flexibility allows you to override your steps to stay up or down and power the auxiliary LED light system on and off.

Specifications: The boards themselves incorporate a highly-textured, powder-coat step surface for maximum grip, as well as high-strength, die-cast aluminum-alloy components for strength and durability.

Applications: Visit website for application listings.

Website: www.amp-research.com

ARIES ActionTrac Powered Running Boards

Description: ARIES ActionTrac™ boards are the next generation of power running boards. These side steps are unique from other power step designs because they feature a patented step-within-a-step™. They are equipped with a control module for safe, smooth, automated operation; they offer a no-splice and no-drill bracket installation; and they feature weather- resistant, powder-coated aluminum construction assembled in the USA. If you don’t see fitment for your specific vehicle, ARIES also offers universal mounting brackets that provide board attachment points for custom-fabricated brackets.

Specifications: Material: Aluminum. Finish: Carbide black powder coat

Applications: Most models of trucks including Chevy, Dodge, Ford, GMC, Nissan, Ram and Toyota, Jeep Wrangler and Gladiator.

Website: www.ariesautomotive.com

Bestop Powerboard NX for Trucks

Description: Bestop’s Powerboard NX utilizes wi-fi modules attached to the door jams to detect when the door opens and closes to then communicate to the wireless controller to operate the boards independently. This eliminates the need to remove the door panels or cutting into under-dash wiring. The boards drop down about 6-in. and out 2-in. to create a stair-step into your truck, and offer a sturdy 6.25-in. non-slip step area.

Specifications: Integrated LED light kit mounts to linkage or to body and illuminates board and ground below for easier access. Features 600-lb. capacity per side.

Applications: Available for a wide range of pickups. Visit website for complete listings.

Website: www.bestop.com

Dee Zee Louvered Side Steps

Description: Dee Zee’s Louvered Side Steps feature angled cuts to allow mud, snow, water and whatever else you step in to easily pass through.

Specifications: Material: Heavy-duty steel; Finish: Black powder coat board and braces.

Applications: Extended and Crew Cab lengths available for most models of Ford, Chevy, GMC, Dodge/Ram, Jeep, Nissan, and Toyota.

Website: www.deezee.com

Enthuze 4X Series Side Bar

Description: Enthuze’s 4X Series Side Bars are made from durable 4-in. oval tubing and come with custom mounting brackets, aggressive custom polyethylene step pads, OE-style bends for a fully integrated look, and are both E-coated and powder coated. Additionally, the bars feature polished welded end caps to complete the look.

Specifications: Durable 4-in. oval tubing, custom mounting brackets included, aggressive custom polyethylene step pads, OE-style bends, E-coated and powder coated.

Applications: Most models of Chevy, Ford, Ram, Honda, Jeep, Toyota Website: www.enthuze.ca

Go Industries Rancher Rugged Steps

Description: Go Industries’ Rancher Rugged Steps offer an extra-wide stepping surface and feature high-strength, custom steel brackets with a no-drill installation. The steps are manufactured from 1.9-in., 14-gauge round tubing with 2-in., 10-gauge steel runners. Additionally they come in the Ultimate Armor Finish to ensure durability.

Specifications: Constructed out of 1.9-in. , 14-gauge round tubing with 2-in., 10-gauge steel runners.

Applications: Available for a wide variety of trucks. Visit website for complete listings. Website: www.goindustries.com

Havoc HST Black Running Boards for Ford Ranger SuperCrew

Description: The HST Running Boards have a high and tight appearance, adding both superior styling and functionality to your truck. Not only do you get a stepping surface for the entire length of the cabin, but you also get protection to your rocker panel (for the off-road enthusiast). These steps are engineered to perform and built to last, ready for any adventure you choose to go on.

2019 Honda Ridgeline Black Edition

Application: 2019-2023 Ford Ranger SuperCrew

Website: www.havocoffroad.com

Lund’s Crossroads Running Boards

Description: Lund’s OE-styled OE running boards feature a crescent-shaped design with chrome end caps that create a contemporary look and feel, with each running board featuring full-length rubber treads for a safe stepping surface.

Specifications: Crossroads running boards are made from durable yet lightweight extruded aluminum and are easy to install using Lund’s no-drill bracket.

Applications: Available for a wide range of late model pickups. Visit website for complete listings.

Website: www.lundtruck.com

Luverne Grip Step XL Steel Van Running Board

Description: Luverne’s new Grip Step Steel van running board is a high-strength, steel passenger side step that mounts underneath the sliding side door on cargo vans and provides a safe and easy step in and out which is ideal for all-day deliveries or supply retrieval. The step is 9-1/2-in. wide and features rounded corners to avoid injuries, and fleet-approved expanded steel treads.

Specifications: Step bars are finished with a professional-grade, zinc-primed textured black powder coat. Step is supported by reinforced, 7-gauge laser-cut steel brackets.

Applications: Available for select Mercedes Sprinter, Ram ProMaster, Ford E-transit and Ford Transit cargo vans.

Website: www.luvernetruck.com

LUVERNE Side Entry Steps

Description: LUVERNE Side Entry Steps are classic running boards with the functionality of modern running board technology. Their long-lasting stainless steel construction makes them wellsuited for a work setting or the off-road trail. Side Entry Steps are designed to contour to your truck, providing a seamlessly integrated look and extra scratch and scuff protection for the sides of your vehicle. All Side Entry Steps mount with vehicle-specific brackets for a no-nonsense install.

Specifications: Material: Stainless Steel. Finish: Textured black powder coat.

Applications: Most models of trucks including Chevy, Dodge, Ford, GMC, Nissan, Ram and Toyota.

Website: www.luvernetruck.com

N-Fab Growler Fleet Steps

Description: N-Fab’s Growler Fleet Steps feature an aggressive tread design that allows for traction in any condition and provides a 7-in. wide aluminum board and end caps for long lasting durability. The included bolt-on brackets make for an easy installation, while the textured black powder coat finish not only provides a great look but will also ensure long-lasting protection for the steps.

Specifications: Available in cab length configurations.

Applications: Fits most GM, Ford, Dodge/Ram, Toyota, Nissan and Honda trucks.

Website: www.n-fab.com

Rampage Products Patriot Aluminum Running Board

Description: Rampage Products’ Patriot Side Step boards are made of high-endurance T4 aluminum and are a single-piece bar with stylish, custom-moulded end caps that are offered in several lengths to accommodate most trucks and SUVs. They are available in either anodized silver or black powder coat with a full-length non-slip sure-drop step pad.

Specifications: Mounting hardware is sold separately and utilizes existing factory holes to eliminate any need for drilling.

Applications: Available for most trucks and SUVs. Visit website for complete listings.

Website: www.rampageproducts.com

Rugged Ridge Spartan Nerf Bars

Description: Rugged Ridge’s Spartan Nerf Bars feature a 3-in. OD primary tube that fits in a higher position than conventional tube steps which offers a cleaner look and improves ground clearance. The drop-down hoops at each door provide firm footing for an easy exit and entry.

2019 Honda Ridgeline Black Edition

Specifications: Bars are constructed from .084-wall steel tubing and finished with a durable 3-stage textured powder coat. Includes all necessary hardware for installation.

Applications: Available for Jeep Wrangler and Gladiator.

Website: www.ruggedridge.com

Steelcraft HD Sidebar

Description: Steelcraft’s HD Sidebars feature a 2-in. step tube for both durability and strength and have a large step surface with a reverse punch plate for traction when stepping in and out of your truck. They are available in either a semi-gloss black finish or a textured matte black finish in order to integrate seamlessly into most trucks’ exteriors.

Specifications: Sidebars are both e-coated and powder coated.

Applications: Available for a wide variety of late-model pickups. Visit website for complete listings.

Website: www.steelcraftautomotive.com

Steelcraft 4-In. Blackout Series Sidebars

Description: Steelcraft’s Blackout Series Sidebars are made from a durable, 4-in. stainless steel tubing that is dipped, e-coated, and powder coated, giving you the best of both worlds…. a black powder coat finish without the worries of rust and corrosion. The mounting-specific mounting brackets provide a sure fit, while the OE style of the bends will integrate seamlessly with your truck. In addition to a handy step in and out of the cab, the bars also protect the rocker panels from potential road damage.

Specifications: The bars feature aggressive, custom polyethylene step pads. Applications: Available for a wide variety of late-model pickups. Visit website for complete listings.

Website: www.steelcraftautomotive.com

TrailFX Drop-Down Hoop Steps

Description: The TFX Drop-Down Step is a streamlined, modern step design with a wide drop step for secure cab entry. The TrailFX drop-down step design is fully welded with a matte black powder-coated Q235A steel. This step features a no-drill, bolt-on installation with provided brackets and hardware. 25 applications are now available, including the ‘20-’21 Jeep Gladiator.

Specifications: Features a no-drill, bolt-on installation.

Applications: Twenty-five applications available, including the 2020-2021 Jeep Gladiator.

Website: www.trailfx.com

Truck Hardware Gatorgear Nerfboards

Description: Canada’s ultimate running board, these extremely heavy-duty boards are built to last the life of your truck. They offer a superior look and function to protect your vehicle from road debris, and with their ‘no-slip-grip’ step plates, they ensure safety in all weather conditions. Handbuilt to order, with no-drill installation, these unique boards stand out from the rest. Any other step is a step down

Specifications: Made of 18-Gauge Stainless Steel, manufactured in Alberta using premium materials, and featuring fully-welded construction and heavy-duty powder-coated mounting brackets.

Applications: For most full-size trucks; please see website for applications

Website: www.truckhardware.ca

Westin Automotive XTS Rock Sliders

Description: 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.

Specifications: 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.

Applications: Ford Bronco or Jeep Wrangler.

Website: www.westinautomotive.com

Off-Road Performance

Story and photos by Gerry Frechette

You could not overstate how competitive the full-size pick-up market is, with this type of vehicle providing the manufacturers with profits commensurate with the out-sized dimensions of the trucks themselves. No one wants to be left behind in this battle.

At the high-end of each of the manufacturers’ half-ton offerings are the off-road-capable super-trucks, a category started by Ford’s Raptor some ten years ago, joined by the Ram TRX in the last couple of years, and in the last year by the Chevrolet Silverado ZR2. The ZR2, though, is a different approach, with less power and panache than the other two. Can it compete with them?

The ZR2 is based on the Crew Cab (only) with 5-foot 10-inch bed. Think the Trail Boss model, with numerous enhancements to give it real off-road chops. Bigger tires? Check – 33-inch Goodyear Wrangler Territory 275/70-18 size. Lifted? Check - about two inches. An increase in vertical wheel travel over ordinary Silverado’s? Check. Maximum mechanical grip? Check – front and rear electronic locking differentials. Specially-designed front bumper that reduces the chance of damage through contact with terrain? Check. Hill Descent Control? Check. All good stuff.

But the clincher is the shock absorber system that we have seen on the mid-size Colorado ZR2 for a few years, the Multimatic DSSV spool-valve dampers that have an entirely different internal construction that controls up-down movement much more effectively than normal dampers. This is the ZR2’s ‘ace in the hole’ against regular Silverado’s and the above-mentioned rivals, as it

Chevrolet Silverado ZR2

provides both a reasonably composed ride on the road, and maximum control in the rough stuff.

Or at least, we hear from reliable sources that it is good off-road. In the middle of a rainy mid-winter week in Vancouver, and in the face of the inaccessibility of the small off-road area that many used in Richmond, we did not get the ZR2 muddy. As for on the road, considering the big gnarly tires, the ride was indeed somewhat civilized, which could be partly attributed to the very firm body structure of the Silverado. No squeaks or rattles on this one. What we can attest to is that we were able to take speed bumps of all sorts at any darned speed we felt like, and that the suspension just soaked them up with hardly any sensation of change in the road surface.

Under the hood is the biggest gasoline V8 in the GM truck arsenal, the proven 6.2-litre unit with 420 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque. It provided more-than-adequate forward thrust with that pleasing V8 rumble, although moving nearly 6,000 pounds of big boxy truck around the city exacted a great cost in fuel consumption (premium recommended but not mandatory). We saw barely into the 17 litres per 100 kilometres range in very light-footed operation at 60 km/h, but with any sort of speedy acceleration and lots of traffic lights, the number was more like 20+. All this despite active cylinder de-activation and stop-start function. This makes the official NRC Energuide number of 16.7 look quite optimistic.

And highway consumption is only a couple of litres better. This big beast did not endear itself to this driver as a vehicle you’d want to drive in the city any more than you have to..

Having said that, the ZR2’s interior made the drive a more-thantolerable one. It’s certainly attractive to look at, with two-tone grey upholstery of a type that is said to be easily washable, at least the parts that aren’t leather, trimmed with yellow stitching that went well with the exterior’s “Sand Dune Metallic” (most will think of it as being military) paint colour.

Of course, there is much room in all directions, particularly in the back seat, under which had been installed, as a $355 dealer-installed option, an under-seat storage bin that will fit a few small carry-bags. An $83,000 truck ($89,718 as tested) with no covered storage should have that as standard. There are plenty of options in the interior for storage of small items, like a large centre console and big door pockets.

The dashboard had a serious re-design for the 2022 model year, and it is much closer now to the quality and functionality of the Silverado’s rivals. Of particular note, the big 13.4-inch touchscreen is effective and easy to use. The technology features include Bose audio, Bluetooth streaming audio, voice recognition, wireless Apple Car Play and Android Auto, and wireless charging. It’s an impressive package of tech, added to in our tester by the $2,355 Technology Package, which has head-up display and a

camera-based rearview mirror, as well as adaptive cruise control and power tilt/telescoping steering column.

Actual driving comfort will depend on the size and shape of the driver, because the seat, with eight-way power adjust plus lumbar, still felt like it could use a longer cushion and more under-thigh

support, for this longer-legged driver. One has to think that this might especially be a concern in off-road use. But for those a bit wider of beam, there is certainly a lot of seat width to work with in the ZR2.

Out back in the cargo bay, you’ll find spray-on bedliner, 12 cargo tie-down points and a 120-volt AC outlet, which the interior also has one of. The feature that GM pioneered a few years ago is the small tailgate within the larger regular tailgate, which flips open to either give you a little longer and lower load surface (like for

lumber), or a step to climb up into the pickup bed. That last function is made even easier by the CornerSteps built into the rear bumper.

So, back to our initial question. How does the ZR2 compete in the high-end off-road market? It seems to me that it is more suited to the kind of off-roading we see here in the mountains and river valleys, and not as much to the higher-speed, desert-type terrain that the Ford and Ram seem to be aimed at. The ZR2 is certainly more narrow than the others, without the “wide body” look, so that would be to its advantage in tight confines, too. On the other hand, it has quite a bit less power than the top models of Ford and Ram, although the 460 lb-ft of the 6.2 V8 is nothing to sneeze at. And one has to think that GM could install a more powerful engine in it if they wanted too....

The Silverado ZR2 is a bit more lowkey visually, more understated, with a more traditional interpretation of off-road performance, made possible by the DSSV shock absorber set-up. Among the domestic brands, this might be the best full-size 4x4 to kit out for overlanding. If you spend much time driving in the city, though, the mid-size Chevy Colorado ZR2 with the same off-road suspension might be more manageable.

A Great Choice

2023 Nissan Frontier PRO-4X

Story and photos by Benjamin Yong

Launched as an all-new redesign for 2022, the Nissan Frontier is in a carry-over year and particularly in PRO-4X form remains a great choice for both work and play. Though the full-length, fullyboxed frame is essentially unchanged from 2005, it’s a solid and proven base to build upon and almost everything else around it is fresh.

Looking a bit like a baby Titan, the mid-size pickup’s nose is similarly dominated by a massive grille and blocky headlights housing distinctive LED signature lighting. The entire vehicle boasts an

upright stance lending a powerful appearance, and adding to the effect are athletic fenders and matching notched taillights.

PRO-4X models get a bunch of bonus functional and cool accessories such as silver skid plates protecting the engine, oil pan, transfer case and fuel tank; wheel arch flares; 17-inch wheels with all-terrain tires; and Lava Red emblem and tow hooks, among others. Hiding underneath the body work is an electronic locking differential and Bilstein off-road shock absorbers.

Last year Trucks Plus reviewed a Crew Cab variant packing the five-foot bed, and this time around we’re in the King Cab that has the half doors in the back and a longer six-foot bed. Proportionally, the latter is arguably more aesthetically pleasing, and the pair of flipdown second-row chairs still provide usable seating. Those transporting young children may find installing a child seat a bit of a challenge though, given the shallow depth of the bottom cushion.

Making its debut is the snazzy Tactical Green Metallic paint (+ $300) as seen on our media vehicle, fitting in perfectly against backcountry vistas, and is a nice contrast against the black and red exterior details, rear privacy glass and available factory-sprayed bedliner.

Speaking of which, the bed has a bunch of useful en -

hancements letting people secure their stuff in a multitude of ways. Four fixed tie-down hooks allow different-sized gear to be strapped in, and the Utiili-track Channel System comprised of three cross-section rails with built-in sliding cleats accommodates even oddly shaped cargo.

Stepping inside the cabin, occupants will notice additional lava red accenting in the stitching, around the instrument cluster gauge rings and various trim pieces. Some welcome touches include the faux-leather-wrapped centre console, leather steering wheel, manual sliding rear window accessible from the driver’s seat and big nine-inch colour touchscreen display.

The NissanConnect infotainment isn’t the best in the industry but is certainly better than many other examples out there, offering a good mixture of virtual and physical controls as well as integrated Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity.

Another useful digital feature is the excellent Around View Monitor 360-degree camera. The first automaker to showcase such technology back in 2007, it’s now upgraded and highlights moving objects on screen, self-activating at low speeds when the twospeed electronic transfer case is set to 4-LO so as to help avoid scratches and dents on the trail.

Under the Frontier’s hood is a 3.8-litre V6 mill, producing 310 horsepower and 281 lb-ft of torque, originally introduced in the 2020 version of the truck. The performance is quite good whether commuting about town or off the beaten path, and is fairly quiet on the road thanks to the installation of extra insulation, improved rear carpeting and acoustic laminated glass in the front doors. A new nine-speed automatic transmission replaces the outgoing five-speed unit.

Owners who tow should be happy with the 6,490-pound maximum capacity. Trailer Sway Control has been added, which detects sway and mitigates the movement by autonomously applying the brakes. Another system capable of taking care of the braking is hill descent control, where drivers descending down steep grades can simply concentrate on steering and let the computer do the rest.

Mississippi, and starts at MSRP $46,598.

Base price (MSRP): $46,598

Type: Pickup truck

Layout: Front engine, 4-wheel drive

Engine: 3.8-litre V6

Transmission: 9-speed automatic

Power: 310 hp @ 6,400 rpm

Torque: 281 lb-ft @ 4,400 rpm

Brakes: front/rear disc with ABS

Fuel Consumption (L/100km, city/hwy combined): 13.6

The 2023 Nissan Frontier is assembled at the brand’s facility in Canton,

Big, Classy SUV

Story and photos by Gerry Frechette

When you really think about it, what type of vehicle other than a large, premium truck-based SUV combines so many desirable attributes in one place? The GMC Yukon, based as it is on a full-size truck chassis, and equipped like our Denali Ultimate test unit, comes awfully close to doing everything you’d want very well – except for fuel economy, of course.

First, the subjective attributes. It looks classy and understated, especially in the black and chrome of our tester. The 22-inch wheels are shiny and bright as they should be, and the trim is tasteful. The Denali is for those who want to make the kind of toned-down statement that its more flamboyant sister the Cadillac Escalade can’t do. Having said

GMC Yukon Denali Ultimate

that, the Denali brand itself has become a prestige name in its own right, something that GMC does a good job of exploiting.

The interior continues the classy look, as the Ultimate model boasts real wood trim, hand-stitched leather all over, massaging seats, dual 12.6inch rear seat screens, and numerous luxury touches in design and execution that will dispel any notions that riding in a truck is somehow a notch down from a luxury sedan.

It’s certainly not a notch down if you are ensconced in one of those comfy second-row captain’s chairs. Besides the aforementioned touchscreens with a USB (HDMI only, we believe) port for each, there are ambient and seat heater controls, making the trip a nice one for all.

Other than comfort and attractiveness, the interior’s claim to fame is space, and lots of it, in every direction. This is a three-row vehicle, and that third row is actually somewhere an adult would have some room, although the seat itself is not as comfortable as the seats in the first two rows. And behind that third row is a cargo area that offers some 25 cubic feet of space. Fold down the second and third rows and you get 130 cubic feet. Picture a GMC Sierra pickup’s long box, and you get the idea, in all but vertical space of course.

A truck-based vehicle had better have some capability, no matter how much luxury it has, and that the Denali has. Under the hood of our tester was the optional 6.2-litre V8 with 420 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque at a higher-than-you-might-have-thought 4,100 rpm. No turbocharger here to boost the low-end power. Having said that, it is more than adequate to propel the Denali to zero-to-100 km/h times in the six-second range, or to tow 8,000 pounds of trailer.

The drivetrain continues with a 10-speed automatic transmission, and out through a two-speed transfer case to, naturally, all four wheels, which are shod with 275/50-22 mud and snow tires. We didn’t drive this Denali anywhere but on tarmac, but if you were to conclude that, with those tires, this Denali would not get too far beyond gravel and snow surfaces, we suspect you would probably be correct. We can attest that they do give a nice, quiet ride on the highway, assisted by the Air Ride suspension, Magnetic Ride Control dampers, and independent multi-link rear suspension. For a big truck, the Denali sure is a smooth ride.

Driving the Denali is as easy as a large SUV can be, thanks to the suspension mainly. The steering and brakes are as you’d expect – not the most communicative to the driver – but this isn’t a performance vehicle. There are really no concessions to economical driving, beyond the stop-start feature and the engine’s Dynamic Fuel Management that shuts down various cylinders when they aren’t needed, which one has to think is most times. In fact, the available driving modes include Normal, Sport, Off-Road, and Tow/Haul, but not “Eco.” We saw a best of 19.3 litres per 100 km in normal urban use.

A couple of quirks to mention. Despite the third row seat, we noticed the slots and indentations in the cargo area

walls for a cargo cover, but there was not one installed. We would want one of those on our Denali. Strangest of all, the windshield wiper system (not the blades, but the motor assembly) is the loudest we have ever heard on a new vehicle. With every sweep of the blades, there is an audible low groan from the mechanism. You had to crank the audio system to avoid it. We don’t know if it was just our unit that had that, or if all Denalis do. Also, some drivers might consider the push-button gear selector (PRNDL) on the dashboard to be a little different, but I suppose that eliminating the usual gear lever opens up some console space, and it is no worse than the rotary knob we now see on so many other vehicles.

So, the Yukon Denali will liberate $110,000 from your account, but if that and the fuel consumption are not issues, it will comfortably haul your family and most of their luggage, tow a large trailer, and go as far off-road as the tires will permit, all with quiet refinement and high-tech safety. Add in a lot of road presence and envious looks from all but Escalade drivers, and you’ve got a big, classy SUV that does a lot of things well.

BUYERS’ GUIDE

AC Delco Gold Brake Pads

Description: AC Delco’s Gold Brake Pads are the high-quality alternative to OE parts and are manufactured to meet expectations for form, fit and function. The pads follow OE slots and chamfers to deliver optimal performance and noise suppression and offer platform-specific ceramic and semi-metallic formulations that follow OE friction material. Counterweights also follow OE dimensions and specs which also help to reduce noise and vibration throughout the brake system.

Specifications: Backing plates are black powder coated for corrosion resistance.

Applications: Available for most trucks and SUVs. Visit website for complete listings.

Website: www.acdelcocanada.com

Akebono Performance Ultra-Premium Ceramic Brake Pads

Description: Akebono’s Performance Ultra-Premium Ceramic Brake Pads are ideal for light trucks, SUVs, and commercial or municipality fleet vehicles of all shapes and sizes and will provide increased braking performance and longer pad life which results in extended service intervals.

Specifications: The pads are produced from proprietary ceramic formulations for maximum friction, rotor compatibility and unique braking requirements.

Applications: Ideal for use in commercial or fleet vehicles.

Website: www.akebonobrakes.com

Brembo Brake Packages for GM Trucks and SUVs

Description: Brembo’s Performance Brake Upgrade system for GM trucks and SUVs are designed for quiet, consistent operation on the street and dependable, robust stopping when working or towing. The kits use a six-piston caliper that works in combination with a wide variety of GM production and GM Accessory wheels.

Specifications: The rotors are significantly larger than production and the system provides an 84-percent increase in brake pad area.

Applications: Available for the Chevrolet Silverado, Tahoe, Suburban and the GMC Sierra Yukon, Yukon XL and Cadillac Escalade.

Website: www.brembo.com

Hawk Super Duty Brake Pads

Description: What Hawk has learned from working with its mining, construction and military customers, they’ve put into their Super Duty compound for heavy duty on- and off-highway braking. Specially designed to provide the performance light- to medium-duty trucks need to bring heavy payloads to a safe stop, expect extremely-high fade resistance with superior high-temperature rotor and pad wear.

Specifications: Perfect for your ¾- or 1-ton truck which sees consistent towing.

Applications: 3/4 and 1-Ton Trucks.

Website: www.hawkperformance.com

Hawk Talon Rotors

Description: Talon Rotors from Hawk Performance are the high-performance rotor replacements that utilize it to offer longer, stronger performance over the life of your vehicle. All rotors are balanced with CNC-programmed, precision-milled slots to significantly reduce harmonic resonance issues and maintain a clean pad surface.

Specifications: Made using G300 metallurgy which is a superior automotive casting material.

Applications: Jeeps, Trucks, SUVs & 3/4, 1-Ton Trucks.

Website: www.hawkperformance.com

Raybestos R-Line Rotors

Description: Raybestos R-Line rotors are engineered for everyday driving conditions and are developed from OE samples and made with G3000-qualified material which ensures form, fit and function for dependable braking. The rotors meet the SAE standard for tensile strength which provides structural integrity and a maximum service life.

2019 Honda Ridgeline Black Edition

Specifications: R-Line rotors are mill-balanced and 100-percent validated which helps minimize the thickness variation on the rotor.

Applications: 99.8-percent coverage for import and domestic cars, light trucks and SUVs. Visit website for complete listings.

Website: www.brakepartsinc.com

SSBC Front B-Barbarian Caliper Upgrade Kit for Ram Trucks

Description: SSBC’s Front B8-Barbarian A404-10BLK front brake caliper upgrade kits feature eight-piston machined billet aluminum calipers with stainless steel pistons that are designed to fit behind factory wheels and use stock rotors. The calipers are designed to provide substantially more stopping power and come with high-performance severe-duty brake pads and all necessary hardware.

Specifications: Calipers are made from lightweight, large-bore, aircraft-grade T6061 aluminum.

Applications: Available for 2009-2020 (Dodge) Ram 2500/3500 pickups.

Website: www.ssbc-usa.com

StopTech Big Brake Kits

Description: StopTech’s Big Brake Kits exceed stock performance in two key areas: first, with larger rotors that increase heat capacity and second, with stiffer calipers and stainless steel lines that reduce system compliance, which provides consistent pedal feel and confidence-inspiring responsiveness. Every Big Brake Kit is engineered to produce optimal balance using caliper bores and pistons specifically selected and tested for each vehicle application.

Specifications: Patented AeroRotors are included that offer the best airflow for better cooling, less fade and longer rotor and pad life.

Applications: Available for a wide variety of applications. Visit website for complete listings. Website: www.stoptech.com

Wagner SD Brake Pads

Description: Wagner’s SD brake pads are exclusively engineered for vehicles that are driven in extreme environments and are the ideal solution for frequent stopping, gear hauling and heavy payloads. The semi-metallic, carbon-based friction material is engineered by Wagner and the pads are put through rigorous, OE-style on-vehicle testing to ensure optimal braking performance.

Specifications: Features OE-style shims, slots and chamfers and come with stainless-steel hardware kits for key applications.

Applications: Available for a wide variety of vehicles. Visit website for complete listings. Website: www.wagnerbrake.com

Wilwood Aero-DM - Six Piston Direct Mount Truck Front Brake Kits

Description: Wilwood has re-engineered its Aerolite six piston caliper to install directly on the factory mounts on two or four-wheel-drive 1/2-ton trucks and SUVs. These new kits give upgraded stopping and holding power, yet fit under most 17” wheels popular with off-roaders. Complete brake kits include stainless Flexlines.

Specifications: Forged aluminum six piston calipers with OEM style, one-piece 13.38” x 1.25” premium long-grain carbon iron alloy brake rotors. Designed to work with factory rear brakes, master cylinder, and computers.

Applications: 1999-2023 Chevy/GMC Trucks and SUVs; 2010-2021 Ford F-150, Raptor, and Expedition; 2007-2022 Jeep Wrangler, and Gladiator; 2015-2021 Toyota 4Runner

Website: www.Wilwood.com

Wilwood TXR - Six Piston Ram 1500 Big Brake Kit

Description: Huge 16” rotors with six piston Tactical Xtreme calipers deliver added security for towing, hauling, or mountain driving. Greater clamping force, increased brake torque, and more thermal capacity for severe use.

Specifications: Forged aluminum calipers with 16.00” x 1.38” military grade Spec37 iron alloy rotors. Designed to work under most 20” wheels, with factory rear brakes, master cylinder, and computer.

Application: 2019-2022 Ram 1500 two and four-wheel-drive.

Website: www.Wilwood.com

Ready for Adventure

Story by Howard J Elmer, photos courtesy of Palomino RV

Aslide-in truck camper is never going to be the overwhelming choice of the RVing public. But, for a certain camping segment it fits the bill perfectly. Truck campers are not new to the overall selection of units available to the RV buyer, yet the models that are being offered today are different. That fact alone makes it worthwhile to revisit what you might just assume you already know about them.

The key benefit of the truck camper has always been the ability to carry your camper and still be able to tow a substantial trailer behind the truck. So, while this has not changed, there is one other emerging trend that the truck camper is perfect for - Overlanding. This RV seg-

ment caters to off-road, off-grid adventurers and a truck camper on a 4x4 truck can get you further off-road then most of the towed trailers (that are said to be designed for that purpose) ever will.

In the case of the Palomino 2912, it adds one additional feature to the usual truck camper design that is unique to the brand - a drop-down rear patio deck. The 2912 is a larger camper; it’s designed to fit an 8-foot truck bed in a 3500-series pickup truck. It weighs in at 3,600 lb and has a length of 20-feet. This full-on camping capable camper has all the amenities you’d want and expect.

Now, to accommodate that rear deck, the entry door is on the passenger side of the unit. The deck, when lowered, exposes a second in/out door from the unit. This full fold-down 8x7-foot party deck patio also houses a 32-inch TV and small refrigerator built into the rear of the unit.

This unit really caught my attention at the Hershey RV show, not only because it was different, but because it so obviously offered a viewing platform for the events that many owners of these types of truck campers attend, such as horse shows, auto racing, dirt track events, etc. This deck set-up lets them watch and enjoy the events that they towed their horses, cars and powersports to, or just enjoy the view in an out-of-the-way destination far from pavement.

The 2912 is part of the Hard Side Max series and is a Palomino premium product. With the insulated, frameless windows and heated basement, this camper is ready for four-season adventure. A nice feature is the exclusive front cap windshield which opens the large living space to more light and creates an inviting atmosphere.

Standard Features

• LED Interior Lighting

• Vented Battery Box (1 on Soft Sides; 2 on Hard Sides)

• Battery Quick Disconnect

• Exterior Battery Charging Station

• Aluminum Frame

• Ball Bearing Drawer Guides

• Laminated Roof (Hard Side Only)

• Congoleum Flooring

• Mortise and Tenon Hard Wood Cabinets

• Pocket Screw Lumber Core Cabinet Stiles

• 55-inch One-Piece Door (Soft Side Only)

• Solar Prep

• Hi-Gloss Exterior Fibreglass (Option of White or Grey)

• Electric Roof Lift w/Remote (Soft Sides Only)

• Pre-Wired for Electric Jacks

• 20,000 BTU Furnace (Soft Sides Only)

• 3-Way Refrigerator (Soft Sides Only)

• Black Rieco Titan Convertible Jacks (Electric on MAX)

• Maxx Air Vent

• Frameless Windows (Hard Sides Only; Insulated on MAX)

• On Demand Water Heater (Hard Sides Only)

• Hot & Cold Outside Shower (Hard Sides Only)

• Front Cap w/Line X Windshield (Hard Sides Only)

• 12-Volt Tank Heat Pads (MAX Only)

• TV (Max Only)

• AM/FM CD/DVD Player w/Theatre Sound and Exterior Speakers (MAX Only)

• 6 cubic foot 2-Way Refrigerator (MAX Only)

• Heated and Enclosed Basement (MAX Only)

• Integrated Bumper (MAX Only)

• Microwave (MAX Only)

Palomino Construction

• High-Density Block Foam Insulation

• Alpha Super Flex Membrane Roof

• Plywood Substrate

• Decorative Wall Board

• Aluminum Framing - Fully Welded Superstructure (N/A on Soft Sides)

• Heated Insulated Basement (Max Series Only)

• White or Grey Hi Gloss Exterior Fibreglass

Also available is the Optional Badlands package which adds off-grid capability to the Palomino and includes:

• Thule Roof Rack

• 100-Watt Solar Panel w/ Charge Controller

• Second Battery Tray

So, if the idea of Overlanding, or of having a well-equipped RV that can really tow appeals to you, a truck camper is an option worth exploring.

Because They Can

Our first drive of the 2023 Porsche 911 Dakar

Story

by Dan Heyman, photos courtesy of the author and Porsche

The Porsche 911 Dakar is one of those beautiful things in the car world – well, as we’ll see in a minute, “beautiful” is somewhat relative – whose very existence proves that still, even today, OEMs can put all the talk of autonomy and EV aside and just focus on what a car’s like to drive. Sure; you could make the argument that the 911 and others like it already make that point, but this here’s another level.

Make no mistake about it - the point of this 911’s existence is, believe it or not, to ride sand dunes and fast gravel roads; after all, the car is so named for the famous Paris-Dakar off-road endurance race that Porsche conquered in 1984 and 1986. In fact if you wanted to, you can even have your Dakar look like those winners with one of four optional graphics packages including the Martini and Rothmans stand-ins seen here, so tweaked for licensing reasons.

It rides 50 mm higher than the 911 Carrera 4 GTS plus a further 30 mm – that’s 80 mm total – if you raise it up via a button press or by selecting the Offroad drive mode, and it will stay at that height all the way up to 170 km/h. Which, according to Porsche, it should have no problem doing on rough roads. Unlike other 911 models that only get front lift, this gets both front and rear lift. Rallye mode joins Offroad as the two Dakar-specific modes this new 911 gets.

Even without the fancy graphics (or the optional roof rack, spotlights or…tent) it doesn’t take long to see how the Dakar is something different. It rides higher on chunky off-road tires developed specifically by Pirelli for the Dakar and it gets wider fenders and skidplates both front and rear. This does add extra weight, but that’s countered by rear seat delete, lightweight glass and carbon bucket seats, frunk lid and rear spoiler so it only weighs 10 kilos more than a GTS. There’s also further optional underbody protection if you want it, but it isn’t fully necessary.

“The rear axle is protected,” said Achim Lamparter, chassis manager for the 911 Dakar. “And we have double-stiff GT3 engine mounts…for (when) the car is jumping.” Jumping! In a showroom-spec 911!

Power-wise, the Dakar is unchanged from the GTS – that’s 473 horsepower and 420 pound-feet of torque fed to all four wheels via an eight-speed dual-clutch ‘box. There is no manual option. Rear-wheel steering also comes standard and they have tweaked the Porsche Stability and Traction Management (PSM/PTM) systems to work with the new drive modes; Offroad gives you a 50/50 power distribution, while Rallye gives you more rear bias meant for faster gravel work. Power can always be shuffled around if need be.

Indeed, we’d need all the help we could get considering some of the certifiably bonkers terrain we’d be traversing – think 250 metre-high sand dunes.

Even though we were in the middle of the Moroccan desert, we did have to drive to the dunes which meant our drive started out on the kind of surface most 911 models are accustomed to: tarmac. Here, other than the noise from the tires (which is a little louder than what’s emitted by winter rubber), it’s all 911. Sure, you sit a little higher but the 911 already has a pretty upright seating position and windshield, so lifting it up 50 mm doesn’t really tell a tale. Even if the Dakar doesn’t equal the performance of the GTS in more “911” conditions, it doesn’t matter so much because anyone who owns one of the 2,500 they’re building for ’23 (at about $250,000 a pop) probably also has a GTS or Boxster. Or both.

Through the few turns we did have, the Dakar felt planted and communicative, as anything with “911” on its bootlid should feel. It sure doesn’t feel more “Macan” than “911”, and that’s crucial.

Off road, the feeling is almost eerie. You look down at the familiar gauge cluster and interior details and think “what’s the big deal?” but then you look at the road ahead – well, the path ahead, anyway, and the camels currently traversing it – and you’re like “oh, now I see” because what you’re looking at is a terrain no sports car should be on.

It gets eerier still as you start to push forward over loose gravel and softball-sized rocks and feel, well, almost nothing. The suspension and heavy tires are so well tuned that everything is swallowed up with gumption. You’re doing about 70 km/h on this stuff like it’s cotton candy. It’s uncanny – but just wait.

Then you hit the dunes. Like deep snow, the goal here is to not stop because if you do, you will sink into that ultra-fine sand and have to be hauled out by one of the gamely Toyota Land Cruiser Prado SUVs that

The route chosen didn’t feature that many precipitous ledges to tumble off of, so we were able to contently push forth, pulling off bigger and bigger drift angles and using the mass slung out over the rear wheels to whip our tails from turn to turn. All done with nary a complaint from the chassis or steering; you can tell the Dakar was made for this.

As cool as this all is, though, it begs the question: why? How many are going to be bashing through sand dunes in their Dakar? Well, for starters you can swap “bashing through sand dunes” to “sliding through winter” and for many, that makes more sense.

were tagging along. You have to keep those tires spinning to stay atop the sand, which we had no problem doing. Make use of the paddles, keep it in gears 1-3 and mash the throttle, focusing on your steering inputs. There is little I’ve done in the world of performance car driving or off roading that can prepare you for the feeling of drifting a 911 through sand, the front wheels flinging the stuff across your windscreen as your counter-steer your way to the top.

Secondly – it doesn’t really matter. This is a “because they can” or a “because I can” type of vehicle, executed to perfection. People like to know they have something special, even if they never put it fully to use – how many Pagani Huayra owners are ever going to come close to its claimed 238 mph top speed? How many Dodge Demon owners are going to slap on the skinny tires and regularly go drag racing? Well, perhaps a few more than those that will test their Pagani’s V-max but that’s just it; they know they can, and that’s enough. The Dakar, with its liveries and high ride height and rear seat delete is an event, and that’s what matters.

If it Ain’t Broke...

2023 Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro

Story and photos by Benjamin Yong

S

ure, the current fifth-generation Toyota 4Runner is going on 14 years old now — but if it ain’t broke, why fix it? The truckbased SUV is still as off-road-ready as ever and continues to deliver practicality and fun at a relatively reasonable price point.

“Canadians are embracing outdoor getaways like never before, and there’s no better way to explore our magnificent country than in the Toyota 4Runner,” says Cyril Dimitris, Toyota Canada vice president, in a press release. “Regardless of the activity, the weather, or the season, the 4Runner is the perfect vehicle for any adventure. It’s unquestionably capable and rugged yet also surprisingly comfortable and refined.”

The exterior remains the same on the TRD Pro grade Trucks Plus evaluated, featuring that stubby snout with the blacked-out mesh grill, hood scoop, cool metal TRD skid plate, 17-inch TRD wheels wrapped in Nitto A/T tires and a wicked bright green Lime Rush paint colour added to the 2022 option list. Power moon roof, running boards and LED low beam and fog lamps are standard.

If the model’s age shows anywhere, the interior is the place. To be fair I actually prefer a more nostalgic cabin where some physical controls

still exist and everything is easily manipulated, even while wearing gloves as was intentionally designed. The eight-inch Display Audio infotainment system works fine though the fauxcarbon fibre around the centre console area should probably go. The red contrast stitching looks sporty against the dark Softex leather and the available 15-speaker JBL stereo sounds excellent. New for 2023 is a heated steering wheel.

The TRD Pro doesn’t have a third row, but those needing extra seats can purchase either the SR5 ($51,050) or the Limited ($58,500), both providing space for seven. Instead, our test vehicle had lots of storage room behind the rear seat that one-touch folds to accommodate large loads. The backrest is able to recline up to 16 degrees so passengers are able to relax on the drive.

No changes have been made to the trusty 4.0-litre V6 under the hood, mated to a five-speed automatic transmission. The engine note coming out of the TRD Pro exhaust is absolutely beastly and actually caught me off guard the first time I fired up the ignition, and makes the 270 horsepower and 278 lb-ft of torque feel faster. A tow hitch receiver and wiring harness are already built in and towing capacity is rated at 5,000 pounds.

Users may choose between on-demand or full-time four-wheel drive, and combined with the proven body-on-frame chassis, rear differential lock and Fox shock absorbers all around, there’s virtually nowhere this vehicle can’t go. The Multi-Terrain Select Control really helps dial settings down to suit specific surface conditions as well, boasting four modes: Mud, Sand and Dirt; Loose Rock; Mogul and Rock. The 4Runner ate up the gravel trail I threw at it and just demanded more.

Base price (MSRP):

$66,220

Type: SUV

Layout: front engine, 4-wheel drive

Engine: 4.0-litre V6

Transmission: 5-speed automatic

Power: 270 hp @ 5,600 rpm (net)

Torque: 278 lb-ft @ 4,400 rpm (net)

Brakes: front/rear disc with ABS

Fuel Consumption (L/100km, city/hwy): ......... 14.8/12.5

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Our strong, lightweight lock never needs to be removed once installed, providing around the clock tailgate theft protection. No need for any vehicle modifications. The McGard Tailgate Lock fits most pickup trucks!

IN THE TIME IT TAKES YOU TO READ THIS, YOUR TAILGATE COULD BE STOLEN. To see just how quickly a tailgate can be stolen, scan this QR code with your camera app or go to mcgard.com/tgl

The 2023 Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro starts at MSRP $66,220. In addition, a special 40th Anniversary Special Edition ($54,380) is being sold limited to 400 units and packs a heritage grille, retro-inspired pinstriping and bronze details throughout.

McGard Tailgate Lock

GEARING UP

Nitto Nomad Grappler

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 3Peak Mountain Snowflake symbol.

For more information please go to www.nittotires.ca

Road Armor Identity Series Products

Road Armor has recently unveiled its all-new Identity line of exterior accessories including Headache Racks, Step Rails, and Bumpers. The Headache racks feature a one-piece welded core design with bolt-on customizable inserts, and are able to accommodate two 6-in. LED bars. The step rails are available in either cab length or wheel-to-wheel designs, both with aggressive tread plates, paintable panels and treads, and multi-function step lights. Finally, the new Identity bumpers offer a truly modular design with available mesh inserts, a multitude of light options, and optional shackle mounts.

For more information please go to www.roadarmor.com

Holley Classic Trucks Chrome and Silver Grille Inserts for 1972 Ford Trucks

Holley Classic Trucks is now offering new grille inserts for Bumpside-era 1972 Ford Trucks that are available in the original factory silver for a stock appearance or a chromed finish for a premium

UnderCover ArmorFlex

UnderCover’s ArmorFlex is a hard-folding cover designed to protect your truck bed and its contents while maintaining its strength, style, and durability. Heavy-duty panels are coated with a LINE-X® specialty automotive coating designed to provide advanced protection from dents and scuffs, even in the most extreme environments. The dual-action tailgate seal offers universal tailgate operation, allowing you to close the tailgate with the last panel of the cover-up or down. It is available for a wide variety of late-model pickups.

For more information please go to www.undercoverinfo.com

look. The inserts utilize all factory mounting points for an easy installation and are specifically designed to work with the original grille shell. They are moulded from high-quality ABS which is both strong and flexible.

For more information please go to www.holley.com

BD Diesel’s New Actuator Controlled Electronic Exhaust Brake for Cummins

BD Diesel’s Electronic Exhaust Brake will increase towing confidence by creating up to 150 retarding horsepower for 2007.5-2017 Dodge/Ram heavy-duty trucks with the 6.7L Cummins engine option. The electronic inline brake is easy to install and doesn’t require the need for an air compressor or air lines, and features less maintenance when compared to conventional air brakes. BD’s exclusive Variable Orifice Technology creates uniform controlled pressure throughout the RPM range. The brake installs inline into the existing exhaust system and retains the use of the OEM dash button.

For more information please go to www.bddiesel.com

EGR Rugged Fender Flares for Ford Maverick

EGR’s new Rugged Fender Flares for the 2022-2023 Ford Maverick compact pickup truck are manufactured to meet OEM quality and

are robotically trimmed to give you a precise fit. They are made from raw, virgin material and provide an easy, no-drill installation. A UV-protected matte finish is featured that will keep them from fading, and the flares come ready for optional painting. They provide additional tire coverage to protect your vehicle and provide a customized look.

For more information please go to www.egrusa.com

GEARING UP

Bright Source Amber/White Raptor Style LED Marker Light

Eibach’s PRO-LIFT-KIT Performance Lift Springs for Ford Bronco Sport Badlands

Eibach is now offering its PRO-LIFT-KIT front and rear performance lift spring for the 2021-2022 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands, designed to provide a suspension lift for your vehicle without the use of coilover systems or spacer lifts. The Eibach springs allow full range of suspension travel without additional stress on bushings and ball-joints that can often be seen with spacer lift systems. They are designed to not only lift your Bronco Sport, but also to provide balanced ride quality, control and off-road capability. The springs lift your vehicle +2.0-in. in the front and +1.0-in. in the rear.

For more information please go to www.eibach.com

Flex-A-Lite Electric Fan Controllers

Flex-A-Lite’s new Compact Adjustable Electric Fan Cooler and Relay kit is ideal for use with nearly all single fans as well as some dual-electric fan systems. Fan activation is adjustable from approximately 160-degrees F to 220degrees with a small, flat screwdriver and the kit includes a 30-amp relay and inline fuse rated for use with fans having up to 20-amp continuous draw. The potted electronics allow it to be water and vibration resistant and includes a connection to activate the electric fan when A/C is on. A provision is also included for an optional manual override switch. The kit comes with all electrical connectors, fittings and fasteners needed for installation and utilizes higher quality wire for better performance.

For more information please go to www.flex-a-lite.com

Bright Source is now offering new amber/white, Raptor style LED marker lights that are meant to sit in your vehicle’s grille and provide a nice appearance upgrade while also providing more light output which is ideal for dark driving situations. One light is able to change between amber or white and features a waterproof, ultra low-profile design that integrate nicely into your grille. The lights come with three mounting solutions including self-adhesive backing, stainless steel screws or a plastic bracket.

For more information please go to www.brightsource.ca

Tuff Country New Ford and Chevy Upper Control Arms

Tuff Country’s new Upper Control arms with ball joints for 20202022 Chevrolet Silverado 1500/2500/3500, 2020-22 GMC Sierra 1500/2500/3500 and 2021-2023 Ford Bronco will not only improve suspension travel but also eliminate any binding that can be caused by factory ball joints. The arms are made for vehicles with 1- to 4-in. of front lift and will help restore proper suspension geometry which will improve driving and handling characteristics.

For more information please go to www.tuffcountry.com

Mile Marker’s Mission Series Winch

Mile Marker’s new Mission Series Winch is a military-grade, 12-volt electric winch that features customizable options such as body, hook and rope colour which will allow for the best combination to seamlessly integrate into your truck or SUV. The winch features

easy-to-operate mechanics with an optional wireless remote and attaches to your vehicle using a simple, standard 4-bolt pattern. The Mission Series are available in 8k, 10k and 12k capacities with 10 full coverage colours and 4 different patterns to choose from. The winches are fully submersible and come with 92-feet of

www.milemarker.co

MAX Security

STUCK TRUCKS

It looks so lonely out there...

Different kind of stuck, but we’ve all been there.

Is this why groceries are so expensive?

Too bad there wasn’t a snowplow around somewhere to help them get out. Oh wait...

Should’ve stayed on the already cleared road to his right there.

His face suggests he knows he may be getting a face full of sand shortly.

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!