Category: Trucks

Aug 19

The Last Stand of Light-Duty Diesel Trucks: General Motors Leads the Way

The Rise and Fall of Light-Duty Diesel Trucks

Once dominated by industrial applications, diesel engines found their way into pickup trucks, transforming from heavy-duty workhorses to more versatile, light-duty options. Over the past few decades, automakers have worked to develop lighter, more efficient diesel engines for cars and SUVs, primarily targeting international markets. The introduction of these engines to the American pickup truck scene led to the creation of some of the most fuel-efficient trucks ever made, but stringent emissions regulations and limited consumer demand have pushed light-duty diesel trucks to the brink of extinction.

The Age of Light-Duty Diesels

Not long ago, buyers had a variety of light-duty diesel options. Chevrolet and GMC offered a 3.0-liter turbocharged diesel I6 in their half-ton models, while Ford and Ram featured their own 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 engines in similar trucks. General Motors also pioneered the midsize diesel market with the 2.8-liter Duramax turbodiesel in the Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon starting in 2016, setting new standards for efficiency and performance in this segment.

The Decline of Diesel Options

Despite their initial appeal, light-duty diesel trucks have become increasingly rare. Ford discontinued its diesel option for the F-150 ahead of the 2022 model year to focus on hybrid alternatives. Ram followed suit by dropping its EcoDiesel V6 at the end of 2022, though it continued to offer this engine in the Jeep Gladiator until 2023. General Motors also removed the diesel engine option from the redesigned GMC Canyon and Chevy Colorado for the 2023 model year, signaling a shift away from diesel-powered light-duty trucks.

The Last Remaining Light-Duty Diesel Truck

Currently, General Motors is the only manufacturer still offering light-duty diesel engines in its half-ton pickups. The company’s 3.0-liter Duramax I6, co-developed with Opel, delivers up to 305 horsepower and 495 lb-ft of torque. Available in various models, including the Chevrolet Silverado 1500 and GMC Sierra 1500, this engine adds approximately $2960 to the base price. The EPA estimates fuel economy for these trucks at 24 city/29 highway mpg (26 combined), with even higher efficiency reported under optimal driving conditions.

By continuing to offer its Duramax diesel engine, General Motors maintains a niche market for light-duty diesel trucks, despite broader industry trends shifting away from diesel options. This commitment reflects the enduring appeal of diesel engines for certain drivers who value their unique blend of power and efficiency.

Aug 19

4 Midsize Trucks the Ford Maverick Is More Popular Than

Love them or hate them, it appears that hybrid trucks are here to stay. Looking at recent auto sales figures, it seems that the Ford Maverick is the most popular one right now. In fact, consumers are buying this truck over its non-hybrid (and sometimes brawnier) alternatives. Here are some pickup trucks that are struggling to keep up with the Ford Maverick.

The Nissan Frontier can’t compete

The Ford Maverick finished out the second quarter of this year with 21,021 units sold. With almost 42,500 units sold so far in 2023, its total yearly sales are up by about 10% compared to 2022. The Nissan Frontier hasn’t been as successful, losing about 21% of its popularity over the past year.

One might think that its recent redesign would make it more appealing, but the Nissan Frontier still has a few unattractive qualities. Edmunds says that this truck’s infotainment system looks outdated and the Crew Cab option doesn’t give adult riders enough legroom. It offers a little over 33 inches, while the Ford Maverick’s rear row has nearly 36 inches. The Maverick also offers slightly more legroom for front-seat riders, plus its crew cab is standard for all trims.

The Chevy Colorado is trailing the Maverick too

This midsize pickup truck has moved 33,165 units this year, nearly a quarter less than what it had sold at the end of Q2 2022. The Chevy Colorado is far stronger than the Ford Maverick, able to tow up to 7,700 lbs when properly equipped. Even when optioned with the newly available turbo-four engine, the Ford Maverick can only tow 4,000 lbs. With its base hybrid setup, it can tow 2,000 lbs.

However, the Maverick might have the Colorado beat in terms of cabin quality. Even on the pricier models, it’s easy to spot all the black plastic panels inside. The Maverick has no shortage of these either, but the overall layout looks more eye-catching compared to the Colorado’s.

The Jeep Gladiator is struggling

The Jeep Gladiator has sold more units than many of its rivals this year, but its overall popularity is down by nearly 30%. It’s also the most expensive truck in the segment, with its base price set at $38,995. The 2023 Ford Maverick is currently just $22,595 to start. Even a fully-loaded Lariat will cost less than the cheapest Jeep Gladiator.

Unlike the competition, the Jeep Gladiator does come standard with four-wheel-drive and innate off-roading prowess. However, because the entire vehicle is 218 inches long, it may be difficult to maneuver on tight trails or parking spaces. The Ford Maverick is barely 200 inches in length.

With the exception of the Toyota Tacoma, every midsize pickup truck is currently experiencing a downtick in YTD sales. Meanwhile, it appears that more drivers are noticing the appeal of trucks that are only slightly smaller. If the Ford Maverick can keep up its current pace, it may be able to outsell some of its most notable rivals before the end of the year.

Jul 21

Used Honda Ridgeline Prices Are Rapidly Decreasing

We’re starting to wonder if the Honda Ridgeline is in trouble because prices for used models are dropping at an alarming rate. While used truck prices are dropping across the board, used Honda Ridgeline prices are falling the fastest.

Is buying a used Honda Ridgeline worth it?

Yes, buying a used Honda Ridgeline is an excellent way to save on an upscale truck that’s practical, comfortable, and spacious. It often ranks as the best mid-size truck because of its SUV-like handling, loaded interior, and abundant passenger space.

Because the Ridgeline is such a high-ranking option, it’s a little odd for used models to be decreasing at a faster rate compared to rivals.

iSeeCars analyzed over 1.8 million used vehicles in the market that are between one to five years old to determine the biggest price differences between June 2022 and June 2023.

The study found that the average price for a used Ridgeline in June was $34,617, which is a 4.1% decrease or $1,469 less compared to the same time period last year.

The average price for a used Toyota Tacoma in June 2023 was $37,300, which is a 2.5% decrease or $937 less than it was in June 2022.

This is interesting because the Ridgeline is more modern and comfortable than the Tacoma, and it has a higher starting price. But on the other hand, the Tacoma is built for more durable off-roading applications.

How reliable is the Honda Ridgeline?

The 2023 Honda Ridgeline has an average reliability rating. It has a score of 80 out of 100 from J.D.Power. Scores between 70 and 80 are average, while anything between 81 to 90 is above average.

It missed the above-average category by one point! Used Honda Ridgeline models from this generation have a similar score because this truck has been more or less the same since 2017. Also, rivals like the Toyota Tacoma have an above-average reliability score.

You can expect the average Ridgeline truck to last between 200,000 to 250,000 miles. Some Ridgeline models have made it over 300,000 miles. Proper maintenance and regular care is the key to survival, so carefully review the history of your used Ridgeline model before buying it.

If you drive an average of 15,000 miles per year, then your Ridgeline could provide around 17 years of service on the road.

Does the Ridgeline have a good resale value?

The Honda Ridgeline doesn’t have the best resale value. This could be why used Honda Ridgeline prices are dropping. Anyway, the Ridgeline only retains about 56.9% of its resale value after five years.

If a Ridgeline depreciates by about 29% after five years, then it should have a resale value of about $32,457. Since the Ridgeline had a mid-cycle refresh, sales have been up.

It’s possible that used Honda Ridgeline models are dropping in price because leases are ending and there’s more inventory available. Also, truck sales are starting to slow due to rising inflation rates.

Having an average reliability rating and weak resale value probably doesn’t help. This comfortable truck still deserves a chance, though. Stay tuned as we continue tracking trends among used vehicles.

Jul 20

Upgrading to 4WD on the 2023 Chevy Silverado Work Truck: What You Need to Know

Pricing and Value of 4WD on the 2023 Chevy Silverado Work Truck

The 2023 Chevy Silverado Work Truck is a top contender for those seeking a dependable and cost-effective work truck, but adding four-wheel drive (4WD) to this model can significantly increase the price. For instance, opting for 4WD will set you back an additional $4,000, with the base model’s 2WD starting at $43,895, and the 4WD version climbing to $47,195. The V8 engine models see an even steeper rise, with the 2WD at $45,835 and the 4WD at $49,135.

Evaluating the Necessity of 4WD

Deciding whether you need 4WD depends largely on your driving conditions and needs. If you live in an area prone to heavy snow or icy roads, the additional $4,000 might be well worth the investment for improved traction and control. On the other hand, if your driving mainly occurs on well-maintained roads, the standard 2WD might suffice, saving you money while still offering robust performance.

Features of the Chevy Silverado Work Truck

Beyond the drivetrain options, the 2023 Chevy Silverado Work Truck includes a variety of standard features designed to enhance functionality and comfort. It comes equipped with a durable Durabed liner, automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and a user-friendly infotainment system. For those concerned with fuel efficiency, the 4WD version offers 18 mpg in the city and 21 mpg on the highway, while the 2WD model delivers slightly better fuel economy.

Jul 20

Why the Used Nissan Frontier is Experiencing a Surprising Price Surge

A Surprising Trend in Used Truck Prices

If you guessed that popular models like the Toyota Tacoma or Ford Maverick are leading the charge in used truck price hikes, you’d be mistaken. The real surprise is the used Nissan Frontier, a truck that’s not usually in the spotlight. Despite often being overlooked in rankings, the Frontier’s prices are on the rise, defying the broader market trends.

Factors Driving the Price Increase

Recent data shows that while the average price for a used Nissan Frontier in June 2023 was $30,097—an increase of 4.3% or $1,248 from the previous year—the Honda Ridgeline, known for its value, saw a price drop. This unusual trend could be attributed to supply constraints: sales of the Frontier plummeted by 24.5% year-over-year, leading to fewer available models. With reduced inventory, prices naturally climb, but the question remains: is there growing demand for the Frontier?

Is a used Frontier worth buying?

Evaluating the Nissan Frontier’s Value

The used Nissan Frontier stands out in the crowded truck market due to its relatively recent redesign and modern features. With a 3.8-liter V6 engine producing 310 horsepower and 281 lb-ft of torque, it offers impressive standard power compared to its competitors. The Frontier also benefits from a high reliability score of 83 out of 100 from J.D. Power, indicating it’s a solid choice for buyers looking for a dependable used truck. As the market shifts, the Frontier’s modern amenities and robust engine make it a compelling option for those seeking a newer feeling truck at a used price.

Jul 20

Elon Musk Criticizes Ford F-150 Lightning Price Despite Tesla’s Delays

Elon Musk’s Take on the Ford F-150 Lightning

Elon Musk, known for his outspoken views, recently voiced his opinion on Twitter about the Ford F-150 Lightning’s pricing. He acknowledged that the Lightning is a good vehicle but expressed concern over its cost, particularly in light of current high-interest rates. Despite his critique, it seems peculiar since Tesla’s own Cybertruck has yet to make its debut on the market.

Pricing Details of the 2023 Ford F-150 Lightning

The 2023 Ford F-150 Lightning Pro now starts at $49,995 before additional fees, reflecting a significant reduction from its previous price near $60,000. Ford’s recent price cuts aim to make its trucks more accessible, though the Platinum trim still commands a hefty $92,000. While this price reduction is a step in the right direction, it has not entirely swayed Musk’s opinion.

Anticipated Cost of the Tesla Cybertruck

Given Musk’s remarks about the Lightning, one might expect the Cybertruck to be priced below $49,995. However, with limited information on the Cybertruck’s specs, trims, and pricing, such assumptions remain speculative. Musk’s social media comments often mix speculation with facts, so it’s wise to approach these statements with caution.

The Future of Electric Trucks: Production and Competition

For electric trucks to become more affordable, increased production is key. Ford aims to reach an annual production rate of 150,000 units, a substantial increase from its early 2023 sales figures. Tesla, with its significant number of Cybertruck reservations, is likely working towards similar production goals, though it faces its own challenges, including past issues with production quality.

Will the Cybertruck Outshine the Ford F-150 Lightning?

Predicting the success of the Cybertruck versus the Ford F-150 Lightning is challenging. Tesla has a history of delays and unmet promises, yet its early successes in the EV market suggest it shouldn’t be discounted. Conversely, Ford’s longstanding reputation and robust manufacturing capabilities make the F-150 Lightning a strong contender in the electric truck arena.

Jul 20

The 2023 Chevy Colorado Rocks the Toyota Tacoma in 1 Critical Area

The Chevrolet Colorado has been trying to catch the Toyota Tacoma for years, but it has one undeniable advantage. The revamped 2023 Chevy Colorado has the muscle to finally dethrone the 2023 Toyota Tacoma, and it still beats the remodeled 2024 Tacoma too.

Can the 2023 Chevy Colorado tow more than the Toyota Tacoma?

Yes, the 2023 Chevy Colorado can tow more than the 2023 Toyota Tacoma. When properly equipped, the 2023 Colorado can tow up to 7,700 lbs and carry a payload of up to 1,684 lbs. It matches what the Jeep Gladiator can tow.

The 2023 Toyota Tacoma can tow up to 6,800 lbs and can carry a payload of up to 1,685 lbs. So, the Colorado can tow up to 900 lbs more, which isn’t that big of a difference. But hey, size matters.

Plus, the 2024 Tacoma can tow up to 6,500 lbs. It actually lost 300 lbs of towing power. So, the Colorado can tow 1,200 lbs more than the new Tacoma. That’s a much better-looking figure. Also, the redesigned Tacoma can carry a payload of up to 1,709 lbs.

Does the Colorado or Tacoma have more power?

The standard Colorado has more power than the entry-level 2023 Tacoma. The Colorado kicks things off with a turbocharged 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine that churns out 237 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque.

With the standard 2023 Toyota Tacoma, you get a 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine with 159 hp and 180 lb-ft of torque. But you can upgrade to the 3.5–liter V6 engine for 278 hp and 265 lb-ft of torque.

The Turbo Plus variant of the Colorado provides 310 hp and 391 lb-ft of torque. The High Output variant boosts the torque to 430 lb.

With the 2024 Tacoma, the standard turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine provides 228 and 243 lb-ft of torque. It’s tuned to provide 278 hp and 317 lb-ft of torque on higher trim levels.

The Tacoma Hybrid benefits from the new i-FORCE Max powertrain, which pairs the 2.7-liter engine with a battery pack and an electric motor to generate 326 hp and 465 lb-ft of torque.

So, the Colorado has more power than the 2023 Tacoma and the gas-powered 2024 Tacoma models. However, the Tacoma Hybrid squeezes in a win with 16 more hp and 35 more torque.

The 2023 Colorado can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in about 7.0 seconds, and the 2023 Tacoma gets there in roughly 7.7 seconds, but it has been clocked as low as 6.6 seconds.

Does the Colorado or Tacoma have more space?

The 2023 Chevy Colorado provides more interior space than the 2023 Toyota Tacoma. You’ll find that taller adults fit more comfortably in the front and rear of the Colorado. However, the rear seat is still pretty tight.

If you want more passenger space, then consider going for the Jeep Gladiator or Honda Ridgeline. They have the largest backseats in the segment. Also, the Colorado has more storage capacity.

It has a larger center console and glove box. The rear seats are easier to fold up in the Colorado as well. However, the 2024 Tacoma boasts increased space and storage capacity. It could have more passenger room too.

For now, we can determine that the Chevy Colorado has more muscle than the Tacoma. It can tow more than the 2023 and 2024 models. Stay tuned for updates as we get behind the wheel of the 2024 Tacoma to compare its new features.

Jul 12

Urgent Recall Alert: Ram Issues ‘Do Not Drive’ Order for Affected Older Pickup Trucks

Immediate Action Required for Older Ram Pickups

Stellantis has issued a critical “Do Not Drive” order for older Ram pickups following a tragic incident where a Takata airbag explosion resulted in a fatality. This decision comes as part of an extensive recall effort addressing the notorious Takata airbag defects, which have led to over 100 million vehicles being recalled globally. The recent fatal accident on May 13 has spurred this new round of urgent recalls, impacting nearly 30,000 2003 Ram trucks whose owners had previously ignored recall notices.

Impact and Next Steps for Affected Vehicle Owners

The Takata airbag recall remains one of the largest in automotive history, with over 385,000 2003 Ram trucks initially recalled in 2015. Despite this, approximately 84,000 trucks still have unreplaced airbags, with around 30,000 still on the road. The NHTSA strongly urges owners of these vehicles to halt driving immediately until their airbags are replaced, emphasizing that this free repair could prevent serious injuries or fatalities. For more information or to schedule a repair, vehicle owners should visit the Ram or NHTSA websites, or contact Stellantis’ customer service at 833-583-0144.

Jul 12

2023 Ford Ranger Trims: Why the XLT Stands Out from the Rest

A Look at the Ford Ranger’s Lineup

Returning to the U.S. market in 2019, the Ford Ranger has quickly become a standout in the midsize pickup category. With its robust 7,500 lb towing capacity and versatile configurations—either the four-door SuperCrew with a five-foot bed or the two-door SuperCab with a six-foot bed—the Ranger meets a variety of needs. The 2023 lineup offers three distinct trims, each catering to different preferences and requirements.

Breaking Down the 2023 Ford Ranger Trims

The 2023 Ford Ranger comes with a price range of $27,400 to $35,500 before additional fees. The base XL trim starts at $27,400 and features a 2.3-liter EcoBoost® engine with 270 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque. While functional, the XL trim lacks many luxury features found in higher trims.

The mid-level XLT, priced at $31,460 for the SuperCab and $33,420 for the SuperCrew, builds on the XL with enhanced comfort and safety features. The XLT’s improved cabin, advanced safety technology, and superior exterior enhancements make it a popular choice among buyers. Fuel efficiency stands at an estimated 21 mpg city and 26 mpg highway.

At the top of the range, the Lariat starts at $35,500 and offers a premium experience with features like LED fog lights, leather-trimmed seats, and a 10-speaker Bang & Olufsen sound system. The Lariat trim also includes intelligent keyless entry and advanced comfort features, distinguishing it from the lower trims.

Why the XLT Trim Is the Most Popular Choice

Among the 2023 Ford Ranger trims, the XLT has emerged as the most popular, reflecting its balance of cost and features. Buyers are drawn to the XLT for its superior value, which includes significant upgrades over the base XL trim. These upgrades include plush carpeting, dual-zone electronic climate control, and a larger, more advanced touchscreen infotainment system.

The XLT trim also includes the Ford Co-Pilot 360 suite of driver-assist features, which enhances safety with front parking sensors, adaptive cruise control, and improved navigation. For off-road enthusiasts, the optional Tremor Off-Road Package offers specialized suspension and terrain management capabilities, making the XLT a versatile choice.

Expert Recommendations

Car and Driver suggests the 2023 Ford Ranger XL SuperCab for those prioritizing value and performance, noting its efficiency and quick acceleration due to its lighter build. However, their top recommendation is the XLT SuperCrew with four-wheel drive. Adding features like a bed liner, off-road suspension, and the 302 package enhances the XLT, making it a well-rounded option with luxury and practicality in mind.

This analysis underscores why the XLT trim remains a top pick for many Ford Ranger shoppers, offering a blend of advanced features and excellent value.

Jul 11

Chevy Pulls the Plug on Affordable Silverado EV Work Truck

Chevrolet made waves with the Silverado EV RST First Edition. However, there was another important model that was set to make its debut in 2023, and that was the entry-level WT, or work truck, aimed at fleet customers.

Chevrolet had high hopes that this truck would be the vehicle that introduces electrification into fleets. It was to be similar to the consumer-level Silverado EV, but there were to be several differences for the fleet vehicle. However, those plans were canceled. In this article, we will look at the cancelation and some plausible reasons for it.

Chevy’s plans for a more affordable Silverado EV work truck

The Chevy Silverado EV WT was going to share the same Ultium platform with a 24-module battery pack with the rest of the Silverado EV lineup and was going to offer the same estimated range. Like the Silverado EV RST, the WT would have had a two-motor setup, but the output would have dropped from 664 horsepower and 780 lb-ft of torque in the RST to 510 horsepower and 615 lb-ft. Most importantly, it was going to be offered at an affordable $39,900.

The focus would have been on fleet customers, so the crew cab-only Silverado EV WT interior would have been rather plain in its all-black colorway. An 11-inch center screen would have replaced the 17-inch screen that is currently on the RST, while the reconfigurable driver’s display would have shrunk down to 7 inches from the 8-inch screen found in the RST. The WT would also have had a durable metal roof instead of a glass roof.

An uncertain future for the Silverado EV

According to GM Authority, the Chevy Silverado EV will now start in the $50,000 range, likely offering up a lightly equipped work truck variant, perhaps a 2WT model, as the entry-level model.

This new entry-level trim is expected to slot in under the 4WT and 3WT already announced, arriving after the 4WT and 3WT officially launch. The main difference between these two is that the 4WT has a larger battery and an EPA range rating of 450 miles per charge and the 3WT will have a rating close to 400 miles.

For reference, the first Chevy Silverado EV out of the gate is 4WT, followed by the 3WT. Just like the original Silverado EV WT, the 3WT and 4WT are only available to fleet customers. The good news is that if you’re getting either of the two WT variants, both models are eligible for the $7,500 federal tax credit of the Inflation Reduction Act since they still cost under $80,000.

Possible reasons for the canceled plans

One of the reasons the plans were canceled was likely due to the inability to bring it in for an affordable price. During a media first drive event of the Silverado EV, Chevrolet representatives told InsideEVs that the $39,900 Silverado EV WT won’t be offered anymore, but at the same time promised that they would offer “competitively-priced” variants starting in 2024.

This means that you are now left with just two trims of the Silverado EV WT with the base price now climbing to $74,800.

Simply put, a $74,800 fleet vehicle is simply too expensive for most businesses. Here is a rundown of the other models available and their cost:

  • Silverado EV 3WT: $74,800 (Available after the 4WT’s launch)
  • Silverado EV 4WT: $79,800 (Already available)
  • Silverado RST: $106,895 (Available this Fall)

The price increase isn’t shocking because the EV industry as a whole has been under pressure to increase prices over the past three years.