SIX TRUCKS TO GET EXCITED ABOUT
With the Ford Ranger, and Ram and GM’s HD trucks on deck, these new year pickups should be a big deal
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 halftons, 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. Expect that number to go up to claim best-in-class towing. The 2020 HD Rams also appear to have adopted many of the interior features of the new 1500, including the monster centre screen, but go without the rotary-dial shifter in favour of a traditional column-stalk shifter.
GMC SIERRA HD AND CHEVROLET SILVERADO HD
Only months after GM’s half-ton trucks hit the market, the heavy duty threequarter-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. Built at the assembly plant in Flint, Mich., the new Silverado HD is significantly different in appearance than the 1500, a switch from when the two versions had similar looks. Indeed, except for the roof, every panel on the new HD Silverado is exclusive. Like the Silverado 1500, the HD gets some extra legroom on crew cab models and a taller seating position. While we’d prefer the interior to advance more than the 1500 class, don’t hold your breath. 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. Expect towing to exceed 13,600 kilograms (30,000 lbs.) for specific models.
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. An eight-speed transmission is also expected. If the past is any guide, watch for a 2020 Tundra to appear at the Chicago Auto Show in February.
2020 JEEP GLADIATOR
Arriving in the second quarter of 2019, the 2020 Jeep Gladiator will be powered by either a 285-h.p. Pentastar V6 or FCA’s 3.0-L EcoDiesel V6. And, like its Wrangler Rubicon sibling, the Gladiator will be a true off-roader, available with 33-inch off-road tires, Dana 44 axles, Tru-Lok 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. A fold-down windshield, soft and hard tops, and the ability to remove all four doors make the Gladiator completely unique. If the pricing is right, expect a long wait to get one in the colour you want.
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 and will have a boxy shape like its predecessors. Ford has also said there will be a hybrid option, and the truck will be based on the 2019 Ranger medium-size truck that gets a fully boxed, high-strength steel frame. With Jeep introducing removable tops on its new Gladiator, expect the Bronco to get a “sky roof ” or removable top as an option. Engine choices are still classified, but reports have speculated a manual transmission is in the works to appeal to enthusiasts, with first gear a classic “granny gear” for crawling over rocks. Ford has a wide arsenal of engines it could use for the Bronco, with many hoping for the 2.7-L EcoBoost V6 that produces 400 lb.-ft of torque.
2019 FORD RANGER
Arriving early in 2019 and starting at $31,000 before fees and taxes, the 2019 Ford Ranger is a true truck, about a third smaller than an F-150, riding on a fully boxed steel frame. All Rangers in Canada will get the same engine and transmission pairing as the F-150: a direct-injection 2.3-L turbocharged four-cylinder mated to a 10-speed automatic. With 270 h.p. and 310 lb.-ft of torque, the turbo Ranger has more power than its closest competitors. Three trims are offered. Depending on trim, the Ranger can be a four-door SuperCrew or twodoor-plus-half-doors SuperCab. SuperCabs get a six-foot box, SuperCrews: five-foot. All Rangers can tow up to 3,400 kg (7,500 pounds).