Rough, rugged, and ready to roll: new pickups for 2019
Thee full-size models are redesigned, and one midsize truck returns to market
Pickup trucks remain among the hottest things going in the new-vehicle market. Whether for business or pleasure, U.S. drivers just can’t get enough of these rough-and-tumble rides. And 2019 is shaping up to be a banner year for pickups, with three full-size models receiving major makeovers, and an old — yet all-new — model heading to dealer showrooms.
The latter would be the midsize Ford Ranger, which hasn’t been sold in the U.S. since the 2011 model year. It rides on a new platform and features curvy and youthful styling that sets it apart from its larger sibling, the F-150.
The Ranger is available in extended SuperCab and fourdoor SuperCrew configurations, and packs a 2.3-liter turbocharged, V6 engine that comes mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission. An FX4 off-road package includes assorted trail-ready equipment. This includes a terrain management system similar to the one in the Ford F-150 Raptor, with separate modes to optimize traversing grass, sand, gravel, snow, mud and ruts.
As befits a contemporary pickup, the Ranger offers an array of high-tech safety systems, with Ford’s Sync 3 media system (with Apple, Android and Alexa interfaces) and full Wi-Fi compatibility also available.
Meanwhile, fully redesigned versions of the half-ton Chevrolet Silverado 1500 and its equivalent at GMC, the Sierra 1500, arrive for 2019. Each is larger, though lighter and more aerodynamic than before, and come wrapped in expressive new brand-distinctive styling that gives each a burlier appearance.
Noteworthy is the fact that the Silverado and Sierra are the first full-size pickups in the U.S. to offer a turbocharged four-cylinder engine. Standard on select trim levels, this 2.7-liter unit generates an impressive 310 horsepower and comes with active fuel management that allows it to run on only two cylinders at cruising speeds for improved fuel economy.
Other available engines include a 4.3-liter, 285-horsepower V6; a 5.3-liter, 355-horsepower V8; and a 6.2-liter, 420-horsepower V8. Joining the line in early 2019 will be a muscular 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder turbodiesel. Automatic transmissions come with six, eight, or 10 speeds depending on the version. Towing capacity tops out at 12,200 pounds. Sierra AT4 and Silverado Trailboss models are new, and include the 5.3-liter V8 and a host of off-roadspecific equipment.
Short, standard, and longbox cargo beds are more voluminous than before, and include 12 fixed tie-downs. An optional power tailgate is new. A long list of available equipment includes many advanced anti-collision features. As before, the luxurious Silverado High Country and Sierra Denali models lead the line in equipment, comfort and sophistication.
Finally, a redesigned rendition of the full-size Ram 1500 pickup is lighter, longer, wider and engineered to be more durable than its predecessor (which continues to be sold as the Ram Classic). It features fresh styling that sheds the truck’s former “big rig” look for a more upright and purposeful appearance.
The base 3.6-liter, V6 engine produces 305 horsepower, while the available 5.7 Hemi V8 puts 395 horsepower to the pavement. Both include a new 48-volt “eTorque” mild-hybrid system for better gas mileage. An eight-speed automatic transmission is standard with four-wheel-drive optional.
The Ram 1500’s trailer towing capacity is 12,750 pounds when properly equipped, yet it rides well and handles easily, especially with the optional air suspension. As before, it comes in a wide
range of cab configurations and bed lengths, and trim levels that run from basic to opulent and off-road ready.
A long list of safety features and amenities are available. A new active noise cancellation system helps create in-cabin serenity, while an optional 900-watt audio array has the opposite effect.