body platform while bypassing traditional body-on-frame
truck architecture to deliver subtle driving qualities. Its
transformers-like cargo region features a dual-action
tailgate folding down flat or opening from the side.
No longer a dirty word
While diesel engines traditionally power domestic-
badged medium and heavy duty pickups (delivering
superior low-end torque grunt and scaled up fuel
economy) appearances in light-duty 1500s are
becoming fashionable.
Ram enjoyed great sales success with its
2014 intro of a light-duty V-6 EcoDiesel. Ford
also recently announced a V-6 diesel will be
optional in the 2018 F150. Nissan jumped into
the fray during its Gen Two Titan redesign,
wedging a V-8 Cumming’s diesel in the
revamped Titan XD. In the 2017 model year,
a revised, heart-pumping 6.6-liter V-8 turbo
diesel joined the Duramax family of engines in
medium and heavy duty versions of Chevrolet’s
Silverado and GMC Sierra.
Prime time for trucks
Since the turn of the millennia, the Chicago
Auto Show has served as a springboard of sorts
for introducing all-new or next-generation revamps of
pickup and work trucks to consumers, the media and the
world. Last year, Ram debuted the 2017 heavy-duty (HD)
Power Wagon. Toyota also took the wraps off a 2017
TRD Pro version of the mid-size Tacoma and its standard
double cab. Toyota debuted second and third next-
generation revamps its full-size Tundra pickup (in 2006
and 2013 respectively) here in Chicago. A mid-cycle
Tundra refresh debuts at the show this year.
CHICAGO AUTO SHOW 2017
25
More Car, Les s Money: The LEASE you can do!
