Tough trucks on display
The North American International Auto Show is known for two things: brawny muscle cars and tons of toughened- up pickups. This year’s show has three big debuts on tap — a new Ford F- 150 Raptor model and an equally tough rival from Nissan, as well as Honda’s revived Ridgeline.
2017 HONDA RIDGELINE
What is it? After soldiering on for way too long, the 2017 Ridgeline has been reworked to deliver what Honda says is the best mid-size truck the market has to offer. In particular, take note of the size and versatility of the cabin, and the fact the mid- size pickup has a 102- millimetre longer bed and four feet of flat space between the wheel wells. Talking of the bed, the Ridgeline is the first and only truck with six built- in ex- citers (in lieu of conventional speakers) and up to 540 watts of power. Party central!
When is i t coming? It will arrive this summer, with a Canadian debut at next month’s Toronto auto show.
Should you buy i t? If you want the utility of a mid-size truck but don’t relish the buckboard-like ride that defines most trucks (regardless of size), then the latest Ridgeline with its rich content list and car-like driving demeanour will suit you to a tee.
FORD F- 150 RAPTOR
SUPERCREW
What is it? According to Ford, the all- new F- 150 Raptor SuperCrew is the toughest, smartest, most capable F-150 ever. It is a high-performance off- roader aimed at those who value ability as much as fun. It certainly has the underpinnings to back up its audacious style. Over the top? You bet it is, but in a manner that is destined to appeal to the ardent mud-bogger.
When is it coming? The Ford F-150 Raptor SuperCrew goes on sale in Canada this fall.
Should you buy it? If you are into bold and brash — the type that takes no prisoners — the Ford F-150 Raptor SuperCrew is right up your alley. It promises to be fast and all but unstoppable, but this side of its overt personality is tempered by the cosseting cabin with enough room for the family.
NISSAN TITAN WARRIOR CONCEPT
What is it? A concept to make the Titan look even more butch than it is. The Warrior concept is 75 millimetres taller, rides on gargantuan 37- inch off- road tires and is 75 millimetres wider to accommodate the new longtravel suspension. A new grille and signature headlights give the Warrior a more menacing look.
Why does it matter? The fact that Nissan is already building a concept on the Titan XD platform shows how much effort Nissan is putting into its new truck.