GMC Sierra HD

These Burly pickups from GMC are designed, stem to stern, for hard work. But that’s not to say you need to hold a contractor’s license or own a farm to justify their space in the driveway. Folks who like to haul big toys out to play can just as easily appreciate the Sierra HD’s impressive resume. The Sierra HD trucks were introduced last year as part of GM’s push to dominate its competitors in the tough truck segment. I have seen many car games and truck games, but one the most strange thing is I have never seen any GMC vehicles in any famous racing games. Led by a lineup of powerful V8 engines, tough transmissions and a rock solid chassis the HDs are for anyone who needs to take heavy stuff from point A to point B.

There are quite a few models to choose from considering the 2500 HD and 3500 HD are available in various chassis configurations, such as Regular Cab, Extended Cab, Crew Cab, Chassis Cab, long box, short box, 2wd, 4wd… you get the idea. Payloads range from 3301 lb. to 5555 lb, with gross vehicle weight ratings topping out at 11,400 lb. Towing capabilities can reach 16,300 lb. To manage those loads, GMC has outfitted the Sierra HDs with some serious power. The base engine for all models in the Vortec 6000 V8 strong, but shadowed by the optional Vortec 8100 (340 bhp and 455 lb.ft of torque).

Lincoln Blackwood

Mark Hutchins, president of Lincoln Mercury accurately describes the Lincoln Blackwood as ‘a unique American interpretation of luxury’. With a Lincoln luxurious cabin for four, followed by a 26.5 cu.ft, cargo truck that might be thought of as the world’s most ornately trimmed pickup bed, the Blackwood is unabashedly American in concept and execution; Lincoln refers to it as a Luxury Utility Vehicle.

The personality split between luxury and utility appears eve. Despite its decidedly upscale trappings and lowered ride height, the Blackwood remains a capable hauler that counts a built in Class III/IV trailer hitch among its bountiful list of standard equipment and almost used in every truck games as a luxury truck. Spanning the 138.5-in. wheelbase is a ladder frame using an independent unequal length A-arm front suspension teamed with a live axle rear setup combing both leaf and load leveling air springs. Towing capacity is a commendable 8700 lb, made safer by disc brakes that resides at all four corners behind 18x8-in.rims mounting massive P275/55R-18 Michelin Cross Terrain tires developed specifically for the Blackwood.

The 4 wheel antilock brake system in enhanced by electronic brakes, force distribution (EBD) that allows the rear wheels to perform a greater share of overall braking as weight on the rear axle increases. Electronic traction control and a limited slip differential are also standard equipment, but late in the model year a viscous differential called Viscolok will become available.

Ford Expedition

We have seen many outstanding vehicles from the Ford in many car games, mostly in free room car racing games commonly known as Midnight Club and Test Driver Series. Ford built its one millionth Expedition in May 2001, not a bad accomplishment in such a crowded SUV market. It took Ford slightly less than five years to reach this milestone, and the company was so proud they celebrated by giving away unit number 1,000,000 to a luck individual in a special ceremony.

Changes for 2002 are modest, because a 2003 Expedition incorporating several upgrades will make an early debut year. The new gear on the 2002 is mostly limited to the availability of a rear seat entertainment organizer on both XLT and Eddie Bauer versions. The structure includes a 6.8 in. drop down LCD monitor accumulated in the above your head console, a bottom mounted VHS players, two chairs of wireless earphones and game output jacks. A few paint insignia have been deleted, and some of the features of a variety of options packages have been juggled, but beyond that the 2002 Expedition is familiar territory. There are still only two models to choose from, the XLT and Eddie Bauer editions.

Chevrolet Avalanche

You can almost imagine a mad scientist working in his mountaintop laboratory. A Chevrolet Suburban SUV lies connected by wires and tubes to a Chevrolet Silverado pickup. At the smoke of midnight, a bolt of lightning jolts the duo. Amid a shower of sparks and a cloud of smoke, shazammm, the two fuse together and create the Chevrolet Avalanche. It’s alive! Chevrolet is also participating in many truck games like Monster Truck Madness to show there different vehicles to attract the viewers.

With apologies to Mary Shelley and Boris Karloff, the Avalanche represents a new creation. And the villagers appear to be happy, buying every example in sight. Other companies have tried to find the sweet spot for that add commingling of SUV and pickup, but have come away with pickups that won’t carry much or SUV’s that are too truck like.

The Avalanche solves that quandary with a moveable rear bulkhead called the midgate. With the midgate up, the Avalanche is a 5 or 6 passenger SUV with a sort of 5 ft, 3 in. cargo bed. Midgate down, the Avalanche morphs to a 2 or 3 passenger pickup with an 8 ft. 1 in. bed. The conversion involves folding the rear seatback down, removing the rear window and securing it in a holder on the midgate, dropping the midgate down tilting the rear seat cushions forward.

Ford Excursion

The Excursion might look like the Super Duty pickup’s hard working brother on the outside, but things are getting mighty dandified inside. Comfort features abound in Ford’s whopper wagon for 2002. Ford has even developed an Excursion limousine conversion platform for those who simply mush have not only the finer things in life, but also the largest.

Ford, truck, SUV, engine, Excursion Truck include power adjustable pedals, just like on the Expedition. A rear seat entertainment system with DVD play will be a midyear introduction, joining the current VCR entertainment group. The XLT Premium and Limited models get a 6 way power passenger’s seat. Intermittent ‘smart’ front and rear wipers are standard.

The Deluxe steering wheel featuring air conditioning and audio controls on the Limited Ultimate is a good idea, given the vast distances to be traversed in the Excursion’s interior. The limited Ultimate comes with a variety of plush new features, such as heated front seats and the HomeLink system. The dual second row captain’s Nudo leather surfaces and inboard armrests. Other less exotic improvements are shared with the 2002 Super Duty pickups, such as the forward folding trailer tow mirrors and crystalline headlamps.

Ford Escape

After the successful introduction of Ford’s carlike Escape SUV into 2002 with minor polishing and tweaking. The Escape has quickly come to dominate the army of small, maneuverable, relatively economical sport utes that has marched ashore in the US recently. Ford established a new calendar year sales record for small Truck is 2001, selling 121,184 through September, breaking the old record set by the Honda CR-V in 1999.

The template for this class of vehicle, as followed by the CV-R, Toyota RAV4 and other, includes a compact unibody design, 4wheel independent suspension, front wheel drive and 4wd capability, the choice of 4 cylinder or small V-6 engines and a low price. Because many of these vehicles are built on car based platforms, the manufactures rarely bother with low range transfer cases or brawny off road gear. These low fat, eco-savvy urban roustabouts are the politically correct SUVs of the moment.

The Escape brings some traditional Ford Truck brio to the class. Neither the Honda nor Toyota competition offer a V-6, while the Escape can be had with either a 2.0 liter dohc inline 4 or 201 bhp 3.0 liter dohc V-6. The V-6 is now standard equipment on the XLT. The 2.0 liter engine is teamed with a 5 speed manual transmission, while the V-6 comes with a 4 speed automatic.

Chevrolet Suburban

The Suburban’s niche is knack for accommodating a healthy passenger and cargo load, and boasting a towing capacity that falls just this side of a tugboat. Available in ½ ton 1500 Series and ¾ ton 2500 Series platforms, a carefully optioned Suburban can extend its trailer towing capacity to 12000 lb. Maximum payload ranges from 2077lb. to 3153 lb. depending on the series and driveline configuration.

Those impressive weight ratings are due in large part to the Suburban’s muscular engine lineup. The LS and LT 1500 Series models come standard with the Vortec 5300 V8, while the 2500 Series trucks get the beefy Vortec 6000 V8. The serious muscle is found with the 2500’s optional Vortec 8100 engine introduced last year. With 340bhp and a peak torque rating of 455 lb.-ft., an 8100 equipped Suburban can just about move the proverbial mountain? Three transmissions are offered, all electronically controlled 4 speed automatics. The 4L60-E versions optional for the 2500 Series.

One might expect the bruiser like this to come up short in the comfort and handling departments. Not so. The 2000 model year makeover significantly improved the Suburban’s ride quality. The benefits of the precision tuned independent torsion bar front and 5 link coil rear (2500 Series models receive leaf springs and a semi floating rear axle) are further augmented by the Premium Smooth Ride suspension and Autoride shock system.

Chevrolet Tahoe

In spite of their classification, too many sport utility vehicles fall short of their namesake. Too big or rugged for “sport,” too small for “utility.vDon’t count the Tahoe among this group. Thanks to versatile traction control systems, a strong power train, flexible cargo capacity and a smart suspension, Chevrolet’s Tahoe is equally at home climbing mountains or cruising the macadam.

Since its makeover in 2000, Tahoe buyers have gravitated towards the LS and LT trim level offered in both the 2 and 4 wheel drive models, so this year the base trim package has been discounted. A number of features have been added to the now standard LS version, including 6 way power front seats, foglamps, heated outside mirrors, rear heating and window defogger, self dimming driver’s mirror, side steps and a HomeLink universal transmitter.

The real story, however, is in the hardware. The Tahoe LS comes standard with the Vortec 4800 V8, while LT buyers enjoy the Vortec 5300 V8 as standard equipment. These engines offer 275 and 285bhp, respectively. Not a huge difference unless you plan to two big toys, when the 5300’s extra 35 lb.-ft. of torque must be factored in. the 5300 V8 has also been tweaked this year to accommodate both regular and 85 percent ethanol content fuel. Both engines were backed by the reliable 4L60-E electronically controlled 4 speed automatic transmission.

Toyota RAV4

Sailing successfully along since 1996 North American Introduction, Toyota’s funky little RAV4 received a major makeover last year that not only made it roomier and more powerful, but also saw its styling mature to a more mainstream look. The new shape was penned at CALTY, Toyota’s design center in California, and has been likened to a scaled down BMW X5. In other words, funky became handsome.

As might be expected after such a recent and thorough redo, this year’s changes are minimal, consisting of exterior and interior color revisions including the addition of Spectra Blue Mica, Rainforest Pearl and Frosted White Pearl to the available palette on both the base and fully loaded “L” models. Base models contrast body color with gray finish bumpers and body side molding. The upscale RAV4 goes the monochrome route with all bumpers, moldings, door handles and outside mirrors painted body color, and also includes air conditioning, cruise control, AM/FM/cassette/CD with six speakers, power windows and door locks, power actuated heated mirrors, foglamps, rear privacy glass, a tonneau cover, carpeted floormats and distinct badging.

In either trim level, buyers can ponder the choice of a front wheel drivetrain, or a full time 4 wheel drive system that provides additional surefootedness without sacrificing the RAV4’s decidedly sporty handling.

Toyota Land Cruiser

I have driven Toyota Land Cruiser since 1972 and have always found them to be strong and tough. In the early days, they were also noisy and a bit crude, but well suited to their mission of being a serious off road vehicle for those seeking fun and adventure. In recent years, however, the Land cruiser has moved way upmarket and become one of the prestigious sport utility vehicles that many Americans hanker for. And with good reason, for this is an extremely impressive SUV.

Even though the vast majority of SUVs are purchased for use as family wagons, it is nice to know that with Toyota Land Cruiser, you also get serious off pavement ability for your money. And I do mean serious, because the Land Cruiser has proven itself in the toughest going imaginable. So, a run through the snow to your favorite ski lodge is mere child’s play for this Toyota.

Reality is, however, that few will do more than cruiser the highways and byways in the Land Cruiser. And they will find that its ride character is remarkable, the handling is quite decent and the level of comfort and convenience is excellent. On extended trips of several thousand miles, I have found the highway demeanor unsurpassed for steady cruising with little noise intrusion and a great sense of security.

Dodge Ram 1500

Visually, this new Ram 1500 is a lot to take in. with its massive cross hair grille, dome like hood and starting headlamps, it stands out like an NFL Linebacker in a Pop Warner huddle. And you can those really be 20 inch wheels on a ½ ton pickups? Whew. The new Ram still looks like the old Ram, only plenty more so. Maybe the proportions are a bit out of whack, but there’s no denying the impact.

Dodge dispensed with several half measures for this truck, dropping the extended cab and opting for regular cab and 4 door Quad Cab architecture only. The new regular cab is there inches larger than the old. To transform the previous half door Quad Cab into the true 4 door Quad Cab, Dodge filched three inches from the bed and added them to cab. The new Ram 1500 us 3 in. longer overall than the old one, and the long bed is 5 in. longer. You can definitely feel the extra room in the back seat, especially the width.

There’s plenty more going on with this truck than just the vast expanse of new sheet metal. The large scale hardware extends inside and underneath. Four wheel disc brakes are standard, and the rotors are the largest on any ½ ton. The standard P247/70R-17 tires and steel 17.in wheels are, again, the largest to be had in this class. All told, it drives like a sports car among pickups.

Chevrolet Tracker

Small SUVs too often fall short of their utility quotient, as 4 wheel drive does not a utility vehicle make. But with the right chassis, engine, suspension and driveline combination, one can overlook this minor technicality and appreciate the fun and off highway capabilities these little utilities deliver. Consider the Chevrolet Tracker.

The tracker comes in two basic flavors, with just enough toppings to tease the economy minded. For the free spirited, “fun is first” buyer, the 2 door convertible model fits the bill. Available in base or the slightly more upscale ZR2 trim levels, the 2 door Tracker offers, 4 passengers seating with room for a few sandwiches. Stow the rear seat and cargo capacity triples to 33.7 cu.ft. plenty of space for a week-end wilderness escape for two. Optional ski or bike racks make for an even more versatile outing.

A 4 door hardtop version is also available in base or ZR2 trim, and comes standard when ordering the high end LT package, Leg, shoulder and hip room don’t change between the 4 and 2 door models, yet the company gives the 4 door a 5 passenger rating. Cargo volume, however, ramps up to 44.7 cu.ft. with the rear seats stowed.

Chevrolet Blazer

With the increasing diversification of Chevrolet’s SUV model lineup notably with the introduction of the TrailBlazer, the long lived Blazer has been trimmed from five chassis packages (at its 1995 makeover) down to two for 2002. In part, this simplification is to make room in Chevy’s expanding SUV corral; parts is to offer added content wrapped in a lower sticker price.

A midsize SUV, the Blazer is available in 2 doo (five passenger) configurations. The trim level include only the LS-2 and 4 door models, and the 2 door Xtreme. The upscale LT version is no longer offered, although a leather interior package has been stitched onto the LS option list. Both LS versions can also be purchased with a convenience group that includes cruise control, tilt steering, power door locks and windows, and remote heated sideview mirrors.

Autotrac is a nifty 4wd system that engages with the push of a button. It’s automatic, so when activated, it sends power to the front wheels only when added traction is required. Four wheel drive models come with a torsion bar front suspension and anti roll bar, while 2 wheel drive Blazers get an independent unequal length A-arm front end with coil springs. Both models features a live axle with variable rate multileaf springs in back, and ground clearance for each is 7.5 in. combined with its standard 15-in wheels and 4 wheel disc brakes.

Cadillac Escalade

Completely Overhauled in 2001 as a 2002 model, Cadillac’s Escalade continues through 2002 with no changes. As expected, Cadillac’s has put its luxury SUV effort into the new Escalade EXT, the more with the midgate and pickup bed. Naturally the cycle will flip in 2003, with the Escalade going under the upgrade knife.

That’s getting well ahead of the present story, however, as the 2002 Escalade remains Cadillac’s flagship. Built on the 1500 Series GM Truck platform (shared with its Chevrolet Suburban cousin), the Escalade is firmly ensconced in the dreadnought school of SUV design with robust body on frame construction for heavy lift and towing statsus.

The lineup is divided into two models, 2 wheel drive and all wheel drive. The 2wd Escalade is powered by an iron 5.3 liter 285 bhp pushrod V8. Torque is 325 lb- ft, for good, if not tire burning, performance in this 5553 lb. wagon that has earned a 14 mpg EPA city mileage rating.

With Cadillac’s shield and laurel wreath badging is a beefed up aluminium head 6.0 liter V8 found only in the awd Escalade. Pumping out 345 bhp and 380 lb ft. of torque, the 6.0 liter easily makes up for the 5809 lb. weight of the awd Escalade. All Escalades use the same strengthened 4 speed 4L60-E HD automatic.

Buick Rendezvous

Buick’s Rendezvous is designed as a luxurious go anywhere people, hauler. It is a comfortable on the boulevard as it is Aspen plowing through six inches of snow. As long as it stays on conventional roads, it does everything well. With its 7in. of ground clearance it is capable off the road, but that is not its strong built. Like its sister sports utility that shares the same platform, the awkwardly styled Pontiac Aztek, the Rendezvous is practical.

However, where the Aztek proposes rugged adventure, the 4-in, longer Rendezvous is more of a classy people hauler that can handle adverse rows of seats compared to the Aztek’s two. Two more models are being offered by Rendezvous having Color matched body cladding is standard on the CXL, as are a dual climate system, leather seats, an upgraded stereo and 16 in, alloy wheels.

A plethora of options is available for the both CX and CXL, the most useful being the third row bench seat that increases passenger capacity from five to seven. Also available is a head up display, OnStar, a self leveling rear suspension, three levels of leather trim, and parking assist that detects obstacles close to the rear bumper. Traction control is also available on the front drive CX.

BMW X5

BMW X5 Reps Bristle when the X5 Sports Activity Vehicle is compared to more conventional sports utes. For good reasons, too, because this Munich engineered, Spartan burg, South Carolina built vehicle really has more in common with BMW's 5 Series sedan than a Ford Explorer or Chevrolet Trail Blazer. With a unit body, a drive train lowered in the body for more handling friendly center of gravity, a sophisticated fully independent suspension incorporating aluminium links, and tires whose widths and profiles say Autobahn (not Audubon), the X5 does anything but tread lightly around corners, it attacks them mercilessly. Plus, for 2002, Munich’s mavens have crafted an Uber-ute , the X5 4.6is, that raises the bar even higher for sport-ute handling and performance.

But let’s back up and start with the $39,545 X5 3.0i. Powered by the 225 bhp 3.0 liter inline 6 that’s also seen in the engine bays of select 3 and 5 Series cars, it’s mated to either a 5 speed manual or optional 5 speed automatic with Steptronic sequential shift feature. All X5s boast automatic headlights control, an indash single disc CD player and the option of power adjustable rear seat backrest. For further, an adjustable 3 position ride height system in now optional, as is a plethora of Sport and Premium packages and wheel upgrades.

Acura MDX

Since its introduction, Acura’s MDX sport utility vehicle has proven the perfect answer to customer demands for extra space and rugged off-road styling without sacrificing carlike ride and handling. For 2002, this hot selling SUV adds four additional exterior color choices, plus enhancements such as thicker widescreen and roof liner to reduce noise and vibrations felt inside the cockpit.

On the outside, the MDX’s wide stance and chiseled front fenders give it a sporty fenders give it a sporty look. Inside, the Acura offers 7 passenger seating. The second row is 60/40 split bench, and the third row 2-seat combo stows flat on the floor. When the second and third row seats are folded, a generous 81.5 cu. ft. of cargo space is available for weekend runs to the local lumber yard.

Many luxury facilities come average on the MDX. These include 8-way power modification for fine modification the driver location, pelt trim for the first two rows of spacing, an AM/FM stereo with a single Disc player, and an exceptional climate control system offering independent cooling and heating for the back passengers. Acura’s most excellent in the industry 48-state direction-finding structure can be ordered as an option. Dual front and side airbags and 3-point seatbelts for all passengers are also standard.

Ford Ranger

Ford treated the Ranger to a number of power train and appearance upgrades, but the Ranger’s steady evolution from Spartan econo-truck to comfortable, do it all pick-up continues. The Ranger, like the other trucks in Ford’s stable, places renewed emphasis on off-road. The new brush-whackin’ package is labeled FX4, and should keep Ranger owners from having to raid their 401Ks to purchase aftermarket gear. Available on the 2 wheel driver SuperCab chassis, the FX4 option includes an 8.8 in. rear axle with 4.10:1 gear ratio, a Torsen limited slip differential, heavy duty springs, the 4.0 liter V6, a heavier front skidplate and fuel tank skidplate, tow hooks front and rear, FX4 graphics, front rubber ‘Slush’ mats and forged alloy wheels mounted with 31 in. x 10.5 in, BF Goodrich T/A KO tires.

Swimming against the industry tide, Ford has more manual transmissions models available for the Rangers. Each of the Ranger’s three available engines can be teamed with either a 5 speed manual or 5 speed automatic transmission. Off-roading purist will appreciate that the FX4 Rangers with manual transmissions will also come with manual transfer case. Automatic versions come with electronic transfer case. The Ranger is aimed at a younger demographic than many of Ford’s larger trucks, so sound systems matter. The Ranger offers an optional MP3/CD player audio head unit, the first of its kind in a compact pickup.

Saturn VUE

General Motor’s Non-traditional division is introducing a compact sport utility this spring. Embodying such Saturn core values as dent - and chip resistant polymer side panels, space frame body construction and Saturn’s highly rated ownership experience, the VUE launches into a booming SUV market.

What makes the VUE worthy of consideration among so many competitors? Innovation. The VUE is the SUV with standard power assisted rack, and pinion steering and the first to offer an optional continuously variable transmission and side curtain airbags. The VUE is also a good value; its base price starts well under $20,000.

The VUE is also a large valve. About the size of a Jeep Grand Cherokee, defining characteristic of the VUE include a stability enhancing long wheel base, carlike low step in height and a 4 ft. wide rear cargo opening. Yet the VUE offers compact SUV efficiencies and fuel economy. The VUE platform can be configured with front or all wheel drive. Power train choices include a 4 cylinder mated to a 5 speed manual or continuously variable transmission, and a V6 teamed with a 5 speed automatic. The V-6 is available only with all wheel drive.

Volvo XC90

Volvo’s Station Wagons have provided some alternatives for people who prefer not to own a sport utility. Now the Swedish automaker has created its own SUV, and it might well be the sport utility for people who never thought they’d owe one. Styling for the XC90 comes not from Volvo’s design studio in Goteborg, Sweden, but from Camarillo, California. Penned by an American, Doug Frasher, and the SUV’s shape mirrors all the latest design cues from Volvo cars, though exaggerated for this larger vehicle.

Although only 5 in. longer than a BMW X5, the XC90 is a 7 passenger vehicle, thanks to clever packaging. Using transverse inline engines – a 2.5 liter 5 cylinder or a turbocharged 2.9 liter 6 cylinder allowed the power plant, wheels and dashboard to be moved forward. With the rear wheels pushed as far back as possible, designers were able to create a large cabin.

The interior isn’t just big, its also quite flexible to accommodate different configurations. To aid this, the second row of seats can be moved fore and aft. Parents of younger children will appreciate that the centre seat in the second row can be slid forward, to bring the child almost level with the front seat passengers.

Mazda Truck

Mazda did a major rework of its B-Series truck, giving it s distinctive look to go with the brawn of its new optional 4.0 liter V-6. As before, however, the Mazda remains a restyled Ford Ranger. Mazda is burnishing the line’s image as a go anywhere hauler by adding a new Off Road package. The rugged looks of the Mazda Truck are enhanced by 15-in, tear drop alloy wheels sporting 31x 10.5R-15BFE Goodrich tires, tie down rails on top of the cargo box and new side steps. Inside, the cockpit gets a new full length centre console, bucket seats and an AM/FM/CD/MP3 player.

Beneath the skin, Mazda has the goods to back this look up. The top line B4000 (the B-name may be gone, but the model designations remain) is powered by a 207 bhp 4.0 liter V-6 that makes 238lb ft, of torque. Fitted with the standard limited slip differential and Class III trailer hitch, this model is capable of towing nearly 5900 lb. That figure covers numerous midsize travel and utility trailers.

The mid range truck is the B3000. It features a 3.0 liter V-6 that makes 147 bhp and 179 lb-ft of torque. The entry level model is the B2300. It’s fitted with a 135 bhp 2.3 liter inline 4 that produces 153 lb-ft. of torque. A new SE-5 model is offered in this range and includes 15-in. wheels, air conditioning, AM/FM/CD, a 60/40 split cloth bench and full carpeting.

GMC Sonoma

Sonoma roster is slightly downsized from 2001 with the deletion of Regular Cab long box model. That means none of the Sonomas can receive a sheet of plywood with the tail gate up, but a newly available bed extender made for the wide bed models helps when it’s time to haul a big load. Customers have a choice of three Sonoma models Regular Cab, Extended Cab, and Crew Cab. Both the Regular and Extended Cab can be optioned with the 2 Speed transfer case for 4wd operation. The Crew Cab, which features four full size doors and seats five, comes standard with the 4x4 drive train. Additionally, the third door is now standard on all Extended Cabs.

Another area of simplification can be seen in the trim level offerings. It’s now down to two: the base SL and the uplevel SLS. The good news is that some of the old SLE items such as the chrome grille trim and matching wheel centrecaps have been folded into the SLS package. But simplification does not mean a crimp in diversity. Two wheel drive versions are powered by the gas sipping Vortec 2200 4 cylinder, or can be optioned with the stouter Vortec 4300 V-6 that offers a pleasing 19-mpg combined fuel economy rating. The Sonoma’s transmission lineup includes two 5 speed manual, and a 4 speed automatic that comes standard with the Crew Cab.

Toyota Tacoma

After updated styling and a barrage of new model, comparatively calm throughout Toyota Tacoma’s all embracing compact pickup lineup. Maybe that’s good thing, as it gives us a breather to sort through all the Tacoma variants and choices.
Those choices begin with three cab configurations: the regular cab; the Xtracab with its pair of forward facing, fold up rear jump seats; and the 4 door Double Cab, introduced and an optional fiberglass bed cover that Toyota calls the Super Sport Shell. Not to be confused with the 4 door HiLux pickup that Toyota offers overseas, the Double Cab was designed and built entirely for the US market.
Forgetting special models for a moment, ‘regular’ Tacomas come in either 2wd or part time 4wd form. Rear wheel drive models (expect the PreRunner and S-Runner specials) receive a 142 bhp 2.4 liter inline 4 as standard equipment, while 4x4s get a longer stroke 2.7 liter, 150 bhp four with balance shafts.
A 3.4 liter 190 bhp V6 is non-compulsory in either case, and this can be boosted to 260 bhp with a dealer fixed but fully warranted super charger. More decisions to make involve the choice between 5 speed manual or 4 speed automatic transmissions, and whether you want a conventional or StepSide box.

Nissan Frontier

Remember when piling into an import pickup was a “knees and elbows” maneuver? In the old days a compact pickup was just that. Today’s versions have grown considerably to their predecessors and nowhere in this more evident that with the Nissan Frontier. Last year, when Nissan gave its Frontier pickup a significant restyling, that “modern industrial” look is difficult to miss, three basic platforms were offered: Regular Cab, King Cab and Crew Cab. Okay, make it four if you count the Desert Runner, a light weight version of the King Cab.
These platforms are represented in the lineup as well, but not the same ones as before. In keeping with consumer demand for more spacious digs, Nissan has ditched the Regular Cab making the 2 door, 4 passenger King Cab the Frontier’s entry level model. Added to the lineup, however, is the new Crew Cab extended Bed.
The Crew Cab Extended Bed is the answer for those who appreciate the Crew Cab’s 4 door access and 5 passenger seating, but need a bit more hauling space than what the standard Frontier Crew Cab’s 56.3 in. bed provided. The Crew Can Long Bed’ cargo Box is 18.3-in. longer for a total length if 74.6 in. That’s just over the 6ft. mark, and the same length as the King Cab bed. To back up in the increased hauling capability, the payload capacity has been increases by 110 lb. with the GVWR bumping up another 220 lb.

Ford F-150

Now that the Dodge Ram has been revamped, Ford’s curvy F-150 is suddenly the old man of the full size truck club. Chevy’s Silverado was remade, the same year Ford rolled out its line Super Duty Pickups. Difficult as it is to believe, the current F-150, introduced as a model, has achieved seniority over its rivals.
Still, the F-150 hardly qualifies for AARP membership. Despite the spate of new competition, the F-150 appears as fresh, and has maintained its robust sales lead. Part of the F-150’s popularity can be traced to Ford’s aggressive creation of specialty models for niche markets. Fittingly, the changes are mostly at these margins.
Thanks to a new super charged 5.4 liter V-8, the Harley Davidson Super Crew now has the muscle to back its tough guy image. Horsepower jumps to 340 at 4500 rpm; strong although less than the SVT Lightning’s 380 bhp. The Harley F-150 also sports a new color, Dark Shadow Grey.
Base price is $36,495, with no more than 12,000 scheduled to be built. Naturally, there will be ample cross promotional co-branded accessories. The SVT Lightning is mostly unchanged, although a True Blue color option has been added. The leather wrapped King Ranch F-150 is now available in SuperCab configuration as well as SuperCrew.

Chevrolet Silverado

The full size Silverado pickup has been GM’s sales leader for years now, its makeover ensured that position won’t change any time soon. Still, Chevrolet continues to improve the breed with each model years. As in the past, the Silverado comes in a huge choice of chassis configurations, from the Regular Cab Sportside Box to the Extended Cab Fleetside Long Box, and everything in between.
To make things a bit easier on customers, some base Silverado option group packages have been combined based on past customer preferences, and chrome bumpers and grills are now standard on all models. Radio options have also been narrowed and for the first time a CD player is offered on the base models. In similar spirit, the Extended Cab now comes standard with an automatic transmission.
Driveline options for the Silverado mirror the rest of Chevrolet’s truck and SUV models. Four wheel drive versions get the Autotrac transfer case that automatically shifts between 2wd and 4wd depending on road conditions. Two wheel drive buyers with V8 automatics and a locking rear differential can enhance on road performance with the optional Electronic Traction Control system.
The biggest cause for celebration among Silverado fans will be the introduction of the Quadrasteer system. Developed by Delphi and first used in GMC Sierra Denali, Quadrasteer is an electronically controlled front and rear wheel steering system that gives full-size trucks a turning radius similar to that of a small sedan.

Dodge Dakota

Back in the muscle-car era, Dodge marketed its Drat as the jumbo shrimp of small cars, a “Dodge size Compact”. The Dodge Dakota pickup has assumed that position in the modern lineup. What was once a “midsize” truck in now labeled a compact, and viewed in that light it does indeed stand out as a bruiser in the compact truck field.

The Dakota is physically larger than its competitors and offers much larger engines. There’s even a link to Dodge’s past in the Dakota R/T option, which offers young buyers a taste of what was all about. On the other side of the coin, the Dakota costs more than its Ford Ranger and Chevy S-10 rivals and is a bit thirstier at the pump, so size does come with a price. The largest Dakota remains the 4-door Quad Cab, which gets a welcome upgrade to standard P235/75R-15 tires. The Dakota is also sold in Club Cab and regular cab configurations.

The base, Sport and SLT models carry over, and are joined by a new SXT model for regular cab and Club-Cab trucks. The SXT seeks to be a value model combining popular options into a sporty package. It comes with 16-in. alloy wheels with all-season tires on 2-wheel-drive models, and all-terrain tiers on those with 4wd. Other equipment includes a rear anti-roll bar, a graphite metallic tinted grille with matching front and rear bumpers and wheel flares, air conditioning and bucket seats.

Cadillac Escalade EXT

Cadillac’s quest to remake both its product line and image took another step forward with the introduction of the Escalade EXT. This Chevrolet Avalanche in a tux is the newest entry (Sport Utility Truck) corner of the market. The SUTs are a new class of vehicle promising to deliver more than what a simple crew-cab pickup can offer. The balance is tipped more in favor of SUV comfort than pickup utility, especially in the case of the EXT, but GM’s offerings definitely have their practical side. Cadillac’s research shows that nearly a quarter of their customers own full-size pickups, so the cargo box had to be more than an afterthought.

The driving line between truck and SUV is the EXT’s “midgate” feature. The midgate separates the rear seats from the cargo box and can be folded to open up an 8-ft. 1-in, bed. With the midgate up, the EXT’s bed measures 5 ft 3-in. The rear window is removable, allowing the EXT to be opened up further for old-shaped items, or to just catch some breezes. The cargo box itself is a combination of steel and a composite material, with a standard rubber bed mat.

Two lockable storage containers mounted along the sides of the cargo box add utility. The EXT also comes with a 3-piece cargo cover and locking tailgate to further shield and contents of the bed. The EXT comes with Cadillac’s usual package of luxuries such as the OnStar system, ultrasonic rear parking assist, electronic climate control and handsome 17-in. alloy wheels.

Chevrolet S-10

For years, compact pick-ups were favored by the younger, single and economy-minded crowd. Trucks like the Chevy S-10 still figure prominently in this market segment, but the recent trend toward 3 and 4 door crew cab chassis configurations has expanded their appeal beyond traditional demographic boundaries. With five variations on the compact pickup theme, the S-10 stands tall in this realm.

Introduction of the 4-wheel-drive Crew Cab S-10 put this truck in a good market position. Bigger and more versatile than the 3-door, smaller and easier to maneuver than a full-size truck, the Crew Cab filled an empty niche in the S-10 camp. Crew Cab is available with a Graphite leather trim interior and Sandalwood exterior color. The next rung down the S-10 ladder is the extended-cab model, available in 2-or 4-wheel drive.

Additional standard equipment, which has also been added to this and all S-10 retail (non-fleet) models included air conditioning and a tachometer. For added customer convenience, two significant suspension upgrades are available. Two wheel drive models can now receive the ZQ8 Sport Suspension Package, which is, in fact, standard on Xtreme models. This setup features a 2-in-lower ride height and comes with special shocks, springs, anti-roll bars and 16 x 8-in. wheels. Four wheel drive models can go the other direction with ZR2 Wide Stance Sport Performance suspension package, Designed for more than casual off-road driving.

Toyota Tundra

There were more than a few arched eyebrows and knowing smiles back in 1993 when Toyota had the audacity to take on Detroit’s Big Three in the full size pickup skirmishes with the T100. The first foray was assembled in Tokyo by Hino, and came in the form of a regular cab long-bed with 3.0 liter V-6 power. The initial T100 sold to the Toyota faithful, but ran smack into the indisputable fact that North American truck buyers traditionally like their pickups to have plenty of power and cabin room. Size, it would seem, really does matter no these shores. So Toyota responded in 1995 with a large 3.4 liter V-6 and an extended cab, gathering accolades for T100 build quality along the way, if not the sales it was looking for.

Through this initial assault met with limited success, Toyota learned valuable lessons, and regrouped for 2000 with the new Tundra in both regular cab and 4-door Access Cab versions, now built in Princeton, Indiana. The result was the best Toyota product sales first appearance ever, with more than 8000 Tundra going out the door in the first month. For 2002, Toyota hones the Tundra with minor wheel option revisions and, more significant, the availability of a limited-slip differential on V-8 models.