Five trucks to get excited about
Last year was definitely the year of the truck, and 2019 is shaping up to be the year of the HD truck. In 2018, GM and Ram led the way with their all-new half-tons, and Ford introduced a new diesel engine in the F-150. But 2019 brings on the big bears, a full suite of HD trucks from Ram and GM, as well as two new trucks from Ford and one that’s overdue for an update from Toyota. Here are the six most highly anticipated trucks coming next year.
RAM HD 2500/3500
Spy shots of completely undisguised 2020 Ram HD models surfaced recently, suggesting the truck is ready for its grand debut at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit in January. On sale since 2010, the design of current Ram HD trucks is almost a decade old, although they got a facelift in 2014. The 2020 Ram HDs appear to have many of the same good looks as the 2019 Ram 1500 trucks. Engine specs are still unconfirmed, but current models include a 383-horsepower 5.7-litre Hemi V8, a 410-hp 6.4 L, and a 6.7-L Cummins turbodiesel in-line six rated at 385 hp and 930 lb-ft of torque.
GMC SIERRA HD AND CHEVROLET SILVERADO HD
Only months after GM’s half-ton trucks hit the market, the heavy duty three-quarter-ton versions appear ready for full reveals in Detroit. The new HD trucks are true work trucks, used primarily for hauling and towing. First up is the Chevrolet Silverado HD, to be followed by the GMC Sierra HD, which is yet to be revealed. Like the Silverado 1500, the HD gets some extra legroom on crew cab models and a taller seating position. Unique (and handy) “bedsteps” in front of the rear wheels join those in the rear bumper. Two new powertrains are on the books: an all-new gasoline engine with direct injection mated to a six-speed transmission, and the Duramax turbodiesel V8 with 910 lb-ft of torque paired to an all-new Allison 10-speed transmission.
2020 TOYOTA TUNDRA
This year’s model is a carry-over year for the Toyota Tundra, a truck that hasn’t seen a real generational change since 2007. Even though Tundra sales have remained consistent following a refresh in 2014, GM, Ford and Ram have all introduced new technology in new trucks. Dealers have suggested 2020 is the year for an extensive makeover for the full-sized Tundra. Expect a new Tundra to get Toyota’s D -4S fuel-injection system, which uses direct and port fuel injection.
2020 JEEP GLADIATOR
Arriving in the second quarter of 2019, the 2020 Jeep Gladiator will be powered by either a 285hp Pentastar V6 or FCA’s 3.0-L EcoDiesel V6 later in the year. And, like its Wrangler Rubicon sibling, the Gladiator will be a true off-roader, available with 33-inch off-road tires, Dana 44 axles, TruLok electric front- and rear-axle lockers, a Trac-Lok limited-slip differential, and an electronic sway-bar disconnect system. It also has true mid-size truck capability, able to tow 3,475 kg (7,661 lbs) and carry 725 kg (1,600 lbs) in a five-foot bed..
2020 FORD BRONCO
Scheduled to make its debut in Detroit in January, the all-new, sixth-generation 2020 Ford Bronco awakens from a 20-year hibernation in the middle of a Michigan winter to warm the hearts of many who have waited a long time for the storied SUV. As with the GT that was kept a complete secret until the day of its reveal, Ford has been mum with details other than confirmation that the Bronco will, like the Jeep Wrangler, be available with either two or four doors. Ford has also said there will be a hybrid option.