Trucks Plus October/November 2023

Most of Your best memories come from an old dirt road

Get your FREE CATALOG at LMCTruck.com

1947-13 Chevy/GMC 1948-16 Ford 1972-15 Dodge

LMCTruck.com 800.562.8782

CONTENTS Refreshed TREMOR:

OFF-ROAD:

RANGER:

TRAILSPORT:

2023 Ford Maverick Tremor ... pg 20

2023 Ford Ranger XLT ...pg 22

2023 Chevrolet Silverado ZR2 ...pg 18

2023 Honda Pilot TrailSport ...pg 34

The Ford F-150 has been updated for 2024 ... pg 12

RV-ING

2024 Airstream Rangeline ... pg 26

ALSO INSIDE: Jeep Wrangler Willys -------------------- pg. 31

Fresh Tracks ------------------------------------------ 6

Land Rover Defender 90 --------------- pg. 38

Gearing Up -------------------------------------------- 42

The State of Overlanding ------------- pg. 40

Stuck Trucks------------------------------------------ 46 OCT/NOV 2023 Trucks Plus MAGAZINE

The End of The Road I

t’s been a long and exciting road since we launched our first publication back in 1985, but as they say, all good things must come to an end….and the end has come for our magazine business.

Over the past three years, we have strived to keep the engine running on the stories and information from the auto industry that you love to read, however the challenges have become such that we have made the difficult decision to make this our final issue.

You, of course, are reading this in Trucks Plus or Muscle Car Plus magazines, but these are just a couple of the many publications produced by our company over the past 38 years. It has been a great ride providing what we believe have been some of the best stories and features from some of the best journalists in the business. Our dedicated team of writers, editors, sales, clerical and distribution staff have always taken pride in the content we produce…which I think you would agree, has been reflected in the magazines we have published.

First and foremost, I would like to thank Bertha Walker. Bert, as she was known, had always wanted to be a writer, but her plans were put on hold in her twenties when she married the love of her life and had six children (I was number 5). Thirty years later she seized the opportunity to fulfill that dream when the monthly publication BC Business Examiner came up for sale. She purchased the company in 1985 and set off publishing the Examiner in the offices of Walker Publications in the Gastown District of Vancouver. I had worked part-time helping out Bert until 1990, when I joined the company full-time with the launch of Movie Guide Weekly, a free guide to all the movie theatres in the Lower Mainland. We published the guide until the launch of Sports Vue which we then printed weekly from 1992 until 2000. In that period, we started several other monthly publications that we inserted into the sports weekly, namely; Ice Time, Golfer, Lacrosse Talk, Winner’s Edge and, of course….RPM Magazine.

In 1999, we were encouraged by Gerry Frechette, who had been our automotive content contributor in Sports Vue since its launch, to create an automotive magazine which became RPM. Gerry has been providing informative features ever since and serving in many capacities over the years. He has been an important and much-appreciated team member, receiving many accolades for his work, including being inducted into the Canadian Motorsport Hall of Fame.

By 2001, RPM was our company’s sole focus, and it was then we took the distribution from being a Metro Vancouver only product to BC wide. Shortly thereafter, we expanded into Western Canada, and then Nationally by the end of that decade. All this would not have been possible without the vision and hard work of Associate Publisher, David Symons. David, who joined the company in 1993 in sales, knocked down every door he could to expand the reach of RPM, bringing on key advertising and distribution partners. He was also a major player when we added Performance Plus (which later became Muscle Car Plus), Trucks Plus and Off-Road Plus magazines, making up the roster that replaced RPM Magazine.

There are also so many other long-term, valuable team members that made huge contributions to keep the presses rolling. That Trucks Plus MAGAZINE OCT/NOV 2023

Volume 16, Issue No. 5 October / November 2023 STAFF & CONTRIBUTORS

Publisher: Dean Washington dean@rpmcanada.ca Associate Publisher: David Symons david@rpmcanada.ca Managing Editor Jordan Allan jordan@rpmcanada.ca Distribution Manager: Brenda Washington brenda@rpmcanada.ca Copy Editor: Gerry Frechette gerryf@rpmcanada.ca Advertising Sales: Elaine Fontaine elaine@rpmcanada.ca

includes Elaine Fontaine with over 25 years in sales, Brenda Washington with 20 years heading up distribution, and Jordan Allan who started in graphic design 14 years ago, later becoming Managing Editor.

There are of course many challenges with every business, and potholes along the way, but for the most part, the ride has been a very enjoyable one. They say you need good people to run a successful business, and for the past 38 years we most certainly have! The support we have received by our many advertisers, distribution partners, organizations, manufacturers and of course you, the reader, is what has made this journey so satisfying!

Now that we have crossed the finish line, I would like to personally thank all of the above for taking this ride with us. The publishing industry has opened the door to many incredible experiences and opportunities. As we reflect, I can say with confidence on behalf of everyone involved…we enjoyed every word of it!

Dean Washington Publisher, RPM Media

Contributing Writers / Photographers: Jordan Allan Howard J Elmer Gerry Frechette Dan Heyman Spencer Whitney Benjamin Yong CONTACT INFORMATION

TRUCKS PLUS Magazine is published seven times per year by RPM Media Inc. MAILING ADDRESS: 2506-2789 Shaughnessy Street Port Coquitlam, BC V3C 0C3 TELEPHONE: (604) 629-9669 FAX: (778) 285-2449 TOLL FREE: (888)-500-4591 EMAIL: info@rpmcanada.ca WEBSITE: www.rpmcanada.ca Second Class Mailing Agreement #40050183

OCT/NOV 2023 Trucks Plus MAGAZINE

FRESH TRACKS

Ram Announces Final Edition of Ram 1500 TRX Ram has announced it will be giving the Ram 1500 TRX a proper send-off with the 2024 Ram 1500 TRX 6.2L Supercharged V8 - Final Edition as production of the truck is set to conclude at the end of this year. “The introduction of the Ram 1500 TRX ushered in a significant shift in off-road performance trucks with a halo effect that will last for years to come,” said Tim Kuniskis, Ram brand CEO - Stellantis. “This current chapter in Ram’s high-performance trucks is coming to a close, but it’s not the end of TRX’s story. While we’ll have more news to come at a later date, we’re proud to offer our loyal performance enthusiasts the very special TRX 6.2L Supercharged V8 - Final Edition.” The truck is rated at 702 horsepower and 650 lb-ft. of torque and is paired to a high-torque-capacity TorqueFlite eight-speed automatic transmission that launches it from 0-60 mph in just 4.5 seconds. The Final Edition of the TRX will offer highly exclusive content, such as Satin Titanium bead-lock capable wheels with a matching 6.2-litre hood badge and bed decal. Inside will feature Patina stitching on the dashboard, seats and an embroidered “TRX” seat back logo. A TRX 6.2L Supercharged V8 - Final Edition cluster splash screen, centre console badge showcasing the build number and a dashboard badge are also included. The truck is in production now and will be available towards the end of this year. ​ Trucks Plus MAGAZINE OCT/NOV 2023

Volume 16, Issue No. 5 October / November 2023 ADVERTISER INDEX

BOLT Lock --------------------------------- 11 Bulldog Winch ----------------------------- 37 Dominion Sure Seal ---------------------- 27 Eibach ---------------------------------------- 9 Enthuze ------------------------------------- 47 Ididit ---------------------------------------- 48 LMC Truck ----------------------------------- 2 Lordco Auto Parts ---------------------13,29 Mile Marker -------------------------------- 30 Nitto Tires ---------------------------------- 35 Pat’s Driveline ----------------------------- 45 SPC Performance ------------------------- 24 Steelcraft Automotive - ------------------- 17 Super-Bee ---------------------------------- 43 The Absorber ---------------------------14,15 Toyo Tires ---------------------------------- 23 WeatherTech --------------------------------- 7 Wilwood ------------------------------------ 25 PICK UP LOCATIONS

Ford Pro Expands Charging Solutions with New Lineup of Chargers for Commercial Vehicles Ford Pro, the commercial division within Ford, has revealed new charging hardware has been added to its suite of end-to-end solutions to help make it easier for commercial customers to transition their fleets to electric. The all-new, Series 2 AC Charging Station 80 amp and expanded DC Fast Charger options are designed specifically for commercial vehicle use and couple with Ford Pro’s charging management software. “We’re committed to helping businesses make the transition to electric easy with a single-minded focus on curated commercial charging solutions,” said Ted Cannis, Ford Pro CEO. “With our tailored EV consulting and portfolio of charging hardware and software solutions, we can design, implement and operate solutions for Ford and other brands that will last for many years to come. And we are not afraid to tell customers when electrification is not yet a good fit and support them with other solutions.” The Series 2 AC Charging Station 80 amp comes with features that simplify and improve the charging experience such as enhanced security with RFID that limits unwanted charger access, an improved detachable cable and connector, a wide range of connectivity options and a new LCD screen that displays step-by-step instructions to initiate charging. The operating temperature range has also been extended and the hardware itself is backed by a 3-year warranty.

Ford Announces New Limited-Edition F-150 Lightning Platinum Black Ford has announced it is introducing a new, limited-edition F-150 Lightning Platinum Black that is a monochromatic electric truck that combines the power capability of the high-end

Platinum trim level wrapped in a unique matte black wrap - which will be Ford’s first-ever matte-wrapped production truck. “Ford is no stranger to limited-edition vehicles – and the F-150 Lightning Platinum Black is taking our award-winning electric truck to new levels of Trucks Plus MAGAZINE OCT/NOV 2023

stealth and style. This is the perfect choice for those customers looking to make a statement,” said Dave Pericak, director of Ford EV truck programs. In addition to the matte black wrapped exterior, the truck also adds other subtle black accents such as wheels and lug nuts, black Ford oval badging, power running-boards with gloss black accent, a smoked light bar and a gloss roof that creates a smooth surface and allows the rest of the truck to truly pop. The Platinum Black also features available Ford BlueCruise hands-free highway driving, an optimized towing setup experience and Walk Away Locking. Future capabilities will come available and can be unlocked through software updates. Pro Power Onboard will now work with the truck switched off and features an updated visual appearance so customers can better understand the truck’s power levels. Deliveries of the 2024 Ford F-150 Lightning Platinum Black edition are set to begin early next year.

celebrate this kind of open-air freedom and still do real truck stuff.”

Jeep calls the Gladiator the most capable midsize truck and it’s hard to argue when you consider that it features four available advanced 4x4 systems, best-in-class crawl ratio, water fording of up to 31.5in., outstanding approach and departure angles, and best-in-class payload. The 2024 Jeep Gladiator will be available in Sport, Willys,

Jeep Introduces Updated 2024 Gladiator Midsize Truck Just like the Wrangler before it, Jeep has unveiled an updated 2024 Gladiator midsize pickup truck at the recent 2023 North American International Auto Show in Detroit, that adds great capability, more refinement, new technology and more standard features. “The new 2024 Jeep Gladiator epitomizes the power of the Jeep community and how it continues to push for greater capability, advanced technology and more refinement,” said Jim Morrison, senior vice president and head of Jeep brand North America. “The new Gladiator makes the best even better, with a more advanced and comfortable interior with a standard 12.3-inch touchscreen and available power seats tested for water fording, more safety and technology, including standard side-curtain airbags, and a fresh exterior with a new sevenslot grille, seven new wheel designs and a windshield-integrated trail-ready antenna. Combine all of that with its folding windshield, three roof choices, two different door options or taking the doors off altogether, and Gladiator is the only truck in the business that can 10 Trucks Plus MAGAZINE OCT/NOV 2023

Mojave and Rubicon models each with its own features and capabilities, with the Rubicon obviously providing the most off-road chops.

Under the hood, the Gladiator is powered by the 285-horsepower, 260 lb-ft. Pentastar V6 that is paired to either a six-speed manual or eight-speed automatic transmission. The Gladiator’s seven-slot grille has been slightly updated and a new trail-ready stealth antenna is now integrated into the front windshield and replaces the previous steel mast antenna. Inside, an all-new 12.3-in. touchscreen houses the Uconnect 5 infotainment system that delivers operating speeds five times faster than previous versions.

Over the course of three days, attendees had the opportunity to explore a wide array of electric vehicles of all shapes and sizes, witness live demonstrations, and learn from more than 50 educational and entertaining sessions held on multiple stages. One event highlight was the Test Drive area that included over 40 electric vehicles to try out. The event also featured over 100 exhibitors, each showing off their contribution to the mission of electrification and clean energy.

At least two of them were companies from British Columbia. SC Carts were on hand from Vernon and Kelowna, showing off their full range of low-speed electric carts, with designs ranging from small runabouts to sedans to pick-ups. Find out more at sccarts.ca.

Fully Charged Show a Big Success in Vancouver Debut Fully Charged LIVE Canada, the premier event for electric vehicle enthusiasts and clean energy advocates, held earlier this month at the Vancouver Convention Centre, recorded total attendance exceeding 17,000.

Fully Charged LIVE, which was hosted by BC Hydro, showcased the latest advancements in electric mobility and clean energy technologies. The event took place from September 8th to 10th, and marked the Canadian debut of the show, which had already gained international acclaim for its engaging format and informative content.

On the other end of the size spectrum were the large tractor units built by Edison Motors of Merritt who documented and then presented the electric semi-truck that they had built specifically for the show. Learn more at www.edisonmotors.ca The response from Fully Charged LIVE attendees was tremendously positive and had the power to inspire individuals who attended from both local and distant locations, playing a vital role in overcoming the knowledge gaps that have hindered the widespread adoption of ‘electrifying things’.

The organizers from the Fully Charged LIVE show expressed their gratitude for the warm welcome in Canada and announced their plans to return to Vancouver in 2024 with an expanded brand identity as ‘Everything Electric CANADA.’

OCT/NOV 2023 Trucks Plus MAGAZINE 11

Fine Tuning

The Ford F-150 gets a refresh for 2024 Story and photos by Howard J Elmer, additional photos courtesy of Ford

T

he 2024 Ford F-150 was debuted at the Detroit International Auto Show in September. What we saw on stage was a re-fresh (as the last generational update was made in 2021) that offered some very thoughtful fine tuning on an already good truck.

Talking to the engineers during the presentation of the ’24, it was apparent that they had fixed some deficiencies and tried to best their competitors on other features. Here is a short list of what’s new.

• On the powertrain front, the long-serving naturally-aspirated V6 has been dropped from all models. That puts the 2.7L EcoBoost into that slot. This engine will increase hp and torque on this base offering, as well as price.

• A Class IV trailer hitch is now standard equipment on every truck.

• Ford is also putting an extended range 136 L fuel tank (36 gal) into every truck.

• Ford executives spent considerable time telling us that they have been listening to customers complain about the complexity of the online ordering process. In response, they have revamped the on-line ordering site and it’s said to be 90 percent better. I have not used it, but I’m guessing that many options have been deleted and others tied together into easier-to-understand trim packages.

• Also, under the heading of simplification, the Limited trim package has been deleted. Instead, Platinum has added a new Plus package.

It was always confusing as to which was top – Limited or Platinum – so now it's obvious, and the Plus package keeps the number of trim packages the same. For 2024, Platinum Plus includes an exclusive Smoked Truffle Interior Theme with Bronzed Copper accents.

• Pro Access Tailgate is a mid-gate swing door that Ford is pushing as a solution to bed access when you have a trailer hooked up and can’t drop a normal tailgate. It’s interesting, however it's mostly a response to Ram’s split tailgate and GM’s multi-flex tailgate. Well, Ford has one, too, now.

12 Trucks Plus MAGAZINE OCT/NOV 2023

PHILIPS ULTINON DRIVE 5000 LED LIGHTBARS

POWERFUL BRIGHTNESS Rugged Performance hůƟŶŽŶ ƌŝǀĞ h ϱϬϭϯ> yϭ ͮ ϮϬ ŝŶĐŚ ĚƵĂůͲƌŽǁ > ůŝŐŚƚďĂƌ tŝĚĞ ĂŶŐůĞ͕ ůŽŶŐ ďĞĂŵ ƉĞƌĨŽƌŵĂŶĐĞ

^ƚLJůŝƐŚ ŚŝŐŚͲƉŽǁĞƌ > ZŽďƵƐƚ ĚĞƐŝŐŶ

NOW AVAILABLE AT LORDCO WWW.LORDCO.COM

In addition to the new 2.7L EcoBoost standard engine, just note that F-150 can be ordered with 3.5L EcoBoost, 3.5L PowerBoost, 3.5L High Output (F-150® Raptor®), 5.0L V8 and the 5.2L supercharged V8 (F-150® Raptor R®).

Towing and payload numbers have also changed. The new F-150 has a tow rating of 13,500 pounds (Max) and a payload of 2,445 lb (Max) Also highlighted at the show was the fact that the Pro Power Onboard version of the F-150 continues to offer an available 7.2kW on 3.5L PowerBoost-equipped trucks, and right now, 10 percent of all F-150 trucks sold are hybrids. Ford says it plans to double the mix of hybrid trucks manufactured for the 2024 model year to give even more customers access to this advanced technology Another update is in the digital realm. Ford’s SYNC 4 with a 12-inch LCD capacitive touchscreen is now standard across the lineup and complements a standard 12-inch cluster screen behind the steering wheel in delivering information to the driver.

Also, on the digital front, Ford wants to help owners prevent truck theft. The 2024 F-150 will be the first Ford vehicle available in North America with Ford Stolen Vehicle Services. This connected service can help locate a Ford owner’s stolen vehicle, if a customer opts in to activate it. Once located, local authorities can help find and recover the vehicle. With the help of the call centre, the owner will be updated along the way.

The F-150 with Pro Access Tailgate is a swinging door with built-in stops to hold it in place. It ensures that more items in the bed are within an arm’s reach, as compared to a conventional tailgate in the ‘down’ position. Because the Ford tailgate step can’t be offered with this new tailgate, an available rear bumper step, with added width and depth, comes with the Pro Access Tailgate. Of course, you can still get a standard tailgate.

There are some fascia changes as well on this truck. The classic grille for F-150 has also been redesigned to create what’s being called the coast-to-coast grille. It boasts new materials and colours.

As for changes in trim packages, the entry level STX gets the new coast-to-coast grille which is said to blend more aggressive styling with classic Ford design language.

Also, the upscale King Ranch interior now includes updates such as a bi-metallic colour scheme on the interior and exterior, now with Sinister Bronze paired with chrome.

Popular freestanding options like moonroof, Max Recline Seats, axle upgrades, and tow mirrors can still be ordered outside the package offering.

Of note is that the absolute base price for a new 2024 F-150, regular cab XL (4x2) is now $49,655 in Canada. This is the new bottom price – while the top price lands somewhere around $110,000. (Not including Raptor, which is even more.) Trucks are available to order on-line now.

16 Trucks Plus MAGAZINE OCT/NOV 2023

Capable and Comfortable

2023 Chevrolet Silverado ZR2 Story and photos by Benjamin Yong

N

ot only did last year’s facelift of the Chevrolet Silverado introduce a redesigned interior, fresh tech and upgraded powertrain options, but also introduced the first-ever flagship ZR2 model providing exceptional off-road capability and badass looks right out of the box.

“Chevrolet has been competing on some of the most gruelling, toughest off-road courses with a prototype Silverado ZR2 in the Best in the Desert race series,” says Dom Lester, chief engineer for performance variants, parts and motorsports at GM, in a media release. “We applied what we learned in racing and Moab testing to the new ZR2 to offer a supremely capable and confidence-inspiring package, but one that doesn’t beat you up on the highway with its ride quality. It’s equally capable and comfortable.”

The front fascia is almost completely murdered out, comprised mostly of a chunky 3-D mesh grille. The signature wing-shaped LED daytime running

18 Trucks Plus MAGAZINE OCT/NOV 2023

lights — which boast animated sequences on LT trims and above — are joined to smoked headlamps flanking a black hollow “flow-tie” badge.

Down below, there’s a silver skid plate and a pair of bright red tow hooks.

Interestingly, the forward bumper is designed with removable end caps to facilitate easy removal before tackling obstacle-filled routes.

At the back, enthusiasts can expect the same roll-formed high-strengthsteel bed floor yielding 2,523 litres of cargo space. The 12 tie-downs placed all around guarantee whatever strapped down isn’t going anywhere, and the powered tailgate makes entry and loading a breeze.

Underneath, the dual exhaust pipes end before the rear bumper to prevent potential damage during extreme trail driving.

A nice surprise is how well-appointed the interior is. The 13.4-inch touchscreen takes up much of the dashboard real estate, complemented by a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster. The former runs Google Built-in infotainment that features native apps like Assistant and Maps, though wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are available as well and

The only caveats being parallel parking could be a bit of a pain given the 5,885-millimetre length of our Crew Cab short box press loaner, though the on-screen view afforded by the several cameras installed all around the exterior certainly helps. And the big turning circle necessitating a multi-point manoeuvre to, say, perform a U-turn on a somewhat narrow street.

This Silverado is the first Chevrolet truck to offer General Motor’s Super Cruise. Already implemented in many other models under the automaker’s umbrella, the handsfree-operation technology is compatible

run flawlessly. The two-tone Jet Black/Graystone perforated leather upholstery on the dash, armrest, door cards and comfortable seating is a welcome touch, and it’s nice to see a traditional shifter.

All ZR2s run a standard 6.2-litre V8 engine, making 420 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque, mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission.

The full-size pickup sits on a Silverado-debut Multimatic 40-millimetre DSSV spool-valve damping system, matched to uniquely-tuned springs, maximizing suspension travel.

Other rugged highlights include front and rear e-locker locking differentials, 18-inch wheels shod in 33-inch mud terrain tires, a factory lift, 31.8-inch degree approach angle and a neat Terrain Mode where the computer handles the braking so the person behind the wheel only needs to modulate the accelerator to accommodate more precise activities such as rock crawling.

While the vehicle is quite obviously loaded with off-road-friendly hardware, as mentioned above it actually drives just fine around the city.

on 320,000 kilometres of pre-mapped freeways across Canada and the U.S. If towing a trailer, even the additional drag and increased braking distance are taken into account.

For those who haul often, the Advanced Trailering System adds extra functionality like a Tow/Haul mode that prioritizes a lower gear to optimize torque for pulling heavy loads (maximum weight rating is 8,900 pounds), and bundles a special app allowing users to create a pre-departure checklist, test the trailer light and see the status of the trailer brake.

Built at the GM Fort Wayne Assembly plant in Indiana, the 2023 Chevrolet Silverado ZR2 starts at MSRP $90,429.

Base price (MSRP): ....................................................$90,429 Type: . ....................................................................... pickup truck Layout: ........................................ front engine, four-wheel drive Engine: . .......................................................................... 6.2L V8 Transmission: ...........................................10-speed automatic Power: ....................................................... 420 hp @ 5,600 rpm Torque: .................................................... 460 lb-ft @ 4,100 rpm Brakes: ..................................................front/rear disc with ABS Fuel Consumption (L/100km, city/hwy combined): .........19.2

OCT/NOV 2023 Trucks Plus MAGAZINE 19

Very Useful Truck

2023 Ford Maverick Tremor Story and photos by Dan Heyman he “Maverick” name at Ford may no longer be attached to a semi-sporty two-door coupe, but don’t let that deter you from having a look at the latest small pickup from Ford. Following in the footsteps of the original Ranger – it and the Maverick are about the same size, to say nothing of the current Ranger – the Maverick is here to provide the practicality of a pickup bed at a fraction of the cost – and a doubling-down on efficiency – of your typical pickup. As a bonus, in doing so it has become one of the cooler vehicles Ford currently produces.

T

When seen “in the metal”, the big headlights and taillights and the blacked-out grille all make for a truck that happens to be one of the coolest-looking passenger vehicles out there. In Tremor form, meanwhile, things are kicked up a notch by adding bronze highlights on the grille, wheels and tow hooks as well as the addition of chunkier Falken Wildpeak off-road rubber with some unique graphics splashed across the doors and hood.

Inside, the environs are definitely utilitarian upon first blush. The dash is a square, upright affair, the steering wheel is a basic three-spoke unit but the gauge cluster gets a futuristic partially-digitized treatment and there are precious few buttons and knobs to clutter the dash.

The Maverick may be roughly the size of a previous-generation Ranger, but it rides lower on a unibody so you sit lower and have more headroom as a result. It may look like it has a bit of a chopped top, but sitting inside, you won’t realize it…until you look out the back window. It’s not that tall and since its middle pane opens and closes, Ford has had to build in some extra housing in the form of thick black plastic, reducing rearward visibility further still.

Other than that, though, outward visibility is fantastic – it takes the Hyundai Santa Cruz to the cleaners in this department – thanks to large side windows and squared off corners. Not only is the Maverick easy to steer through tight quarters and park; it’s an absolute joy to do so.

The bins at the base of the centre stack, meanwhile, are given a somewhat tacky coating so anything you store there – sunglasses, smartphones, Nutri-Grain bars, wallets – won’t slide around too much, and the area doubles as a wireless charge pad.

20 Trucks Plus MAGAZINE OCT/NOV 2023

While I appreciate the luxury provided by the synthetic leather seats, I do miss the cool contrast-orange stitching and other surfaces found in the XLT model, but the bronze contrast stitching on the seats does help break the monotony.

The open-ended door pulls are a little awkward to use at first, but they do serve a purpose. Being a small truck, the Maverick doesn’t have the massive door cards the Ranger or F-150 trucks do, so in an effort to maximize storage there, they’ve cut the door pull short so you can more easily store a tall water bottle.

In back, you won’t find a huge amount of legroom, but headroom’s good and there is underseat storage. The bottom seat cushion is actually a bench that folds up as one unit – there’s no split here – to reveal said storage bin. It’s nice to have, but it means no flat load floor and since back seat floor space is already at a bit of a premium, the bin cuts into it even further. Rear set passengers do get their own USB ports, though, which is nice.

age in the bed like the Santa Cruz has, but there is a power outlet and a storage cubby in the passenger-side wall.

When it comes to towing, the Tremor is limited to 2,000 lbs, which should be enough for those buyers that are looking to replace a CUV with this Maverick and need it to tow kayaks as opposed to concrete. If you want a little more, 2.0-litre turbo models that don’t have the Tremor spec get an optional tow package that allows for up to 4,000 lbs. of tow capacity.

The engine makes 250 horsepower and 277 pound-feet of torque, fed to all four wheels via an eight-speed auto. Tremor spec also means a taller ride height for better off-road performance. It’s a snappy powertrain that even gets a sport mode for just that much more responsiveness and I actually found myself using this mode quite regularly during my test.

The powertrain is good but the real star is the ride and handling. In addition to the great inner-city manners we spoke of, the Maverick makes its way through faster highway sweepers with good body control as well and the steering is nicely weighted – and even somewhat feel-

There are, of course, USB ports up front as well – two of them, one USB-A, one USB-C – as well as a standard 8-inch infotainment display.

Which is fine, and Ford’s SYNC system is a good one with big buttons and an easy-to-use interface as well as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

What’s weird is that big space beside the screen. I originally thought it was there because there is a bigger display available and that space would allow for it. Which isn’t the case; that is, in fact, a storage bin with a removable tacky pad that could be removed and washed, that seems somewhat vestigial, as its shape and position don’t seem like it could fit all that much.

Turns out, Ford is all about 3D printing these days, and they’ve actually turned to the 3D printing community – this is a thing, apparently – to 3D print random things that could do work in the Maverick. One of those things is like a kind of vertical webbing that fits in that bin, and can be used to store pens and tire pressure gauges in a reasonably orderly fashion. Without that, though, it looks unfinished.

One of the reasons the Maverick is so easy to park is that it’s not that long – only about 25 inches or so longer bumper-to-bumper than the Bronco Sport, with which it shares underpinnings – and part of that is because the only bed length you can get is a 4.5 footer, meaning the bed is about as long as it is wide. There is a bed extender feature that adds another two feet or so, but there aren’t any bed access aids to speak of – no extra steps, no self-lowering suspension – though the rear bumper does get a grippy topper. Of course, since the Maverick is a pretty low truck to start with, the bed walls aren’t that high and are fairly accessible from the side for even average size adults. There’s no underfloor stor-

some – so you have a good idea about what’s going on beneath you.

The ride, however, turns out to be pleasingly short on the jarring and rear-end bob you get from body-on-frame pickups with leaf springs. The Maverick eschews those for a multi-link set-up and they’ve really tuned the suspension well and for me, who was expecting a choppier ride due to the Maverick’s somewhat workmanlike styling and size, it was a real breath of fresh air.

I promised myself I wouldn’t refer to that Maverick – the Hollywood one – in this review because that’s played out. In the end, though, I couldn’t help myself because while there are faster cars and trucks out there, bigger cars and trucks out there and more technologically advanced cars and trucks out there, Ford has found a combination of all of that and delivered a very cool, very useful truck. Just like the famed pilot-instructor, it’s more than the sum of its parts. It’s great in town, it’s fuel efficient and it looks absolutely boss in this spec.

OCT/NOV 2023 Trucks Plus MAGAZINE 21

Worth Exploring

2023 Ford Ranger XLT Story and photos by Dan Heyman

F

or the longest time, when it was time to add a pickup to the family to complement the minivan, or perhaps to grow your small landscaping company’s fleet, or perhaps even when searching for one’s first car, the Ford Ranger was a great choice. It was practical, durable and actually kind of cool.

The interior is the kind of thing you’d picture if you owned an old F100 truck and were looking a few decades down the road. The cream colouring, the mechanical handbrake and the need to actually twist a key to start it are the old school elements you’d probably have in mind, because you couldn’t picture them any other way. The way they’re surrounded by round surfaces, a big infotainment display and gauge

Today, there’s a similar truck in Ford’s world – only it’s not called “Ranger”, but “Maverick”, and it’s quite good. The Ranger still exists, though, but the arrival of ol’ Mav means its scope is a little different; it’s larger than it’s ever been and more powerful, too – but even with all that, it still manages to walk that line between crossover and pickup.

Allow me to explain.

It starts with the styling; I’m a fan of how, from the front, the Ranger looks very much like a Ford Edge because if you ask Ford – and most other manufacturers that are building small pickups – the Ranger’s job is to show crossover owners or potential buyers that a pickup could work for them as well. Styling matters to those types of buyers which is why the Ranger’s slim headlight lenses, blacked-out grille and clamshell-style hood are important features.

My truck had the FX4 off-road package which adds special off-road shocks, electronic locking rear axle and Terrain Management System which adds four drive modes: Normal, Grass/Gravel/Snow, Mud/Ruts and Sand.

The special suspension settings also make for a higher ride height which is important for all the off-roady things you can do with the FX4.

My tester had the added benefit of some “chrome look” wheels – so not real chrome, but still cool-looking and a nice complement to the Azure Grey exterior colour. Of course, if you want to slant even further off-roadwards, then there’s the $5,250 Tremor package. If you want to go the other way for a more sporty look, Ford has you covered as well with the black and sport appearance packages.

22 Trucks Plus MAGAZINE OCT/NOV 2023

cluster with partial digitization and teal needles, meanwhile, are perhaps the kinds of changes one could imagine. Basically, it’s not especially adventurous in here but there’s enough modernity to keep up with the Joneses, as it were.

When it comes to the body style, meanwhile, I wouldn’t have my Ranger XLT any other way: a SuperCrew cab and five-foot box is just about right, though you can opt for the smaller Supercab if you’re looking for a longer box.

For its part, SYNC3 continues to be one of the best interfaces in the biz.

The menus are intuitive and easy to navigate, the graphics are crisp

and modern without being over-the-top flashy and the touchscreen is responsive. Add standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support and you’ve got a fullsuite of infotainment features that would make anybody who’s ruled-out a pickup in favour of a CUV think twice.

The 2.3L EcoBoost four-cylinder that the Ranger gets is of the turbocharged variety, and it goes about its business in a cohesive, responsive way that is low on turbo lag and high on forward progress. The power is sent to the wheels quickly via the 10-speed automatic transmission and while I did find the Ranger spending a little too much time shuffling through the gears on some steeper climbs, the overall result is a good one that’s befitting of the Ranger’s pickup-for-all vibe.

Still, though; the Ranger does remain a pickup which means that when unladen, you will get some rear axle hop as the rear leaf springs do their best to keep the rear end in check. It does get a live rear axle, though, which is more than can be said of the Ranger’s Toyota Tacoma arch nemesis, and the leader in the North American small truck segment.

Of course, as much as Ford is looking to conquer some CUV buyers with the Ranger, it does have to do the job of a pickup; has to be able to tow and haul and does so to the tune of 7,500 lbs. if you spec the optional tow package my truck has, which adds a 4/7pin wiring harness and class IV hitch.

That’s fine, but I’m less thrilled with the Ranger’s hauling features.

The bed is pretty spartan; you have four tie downs, but my tester had no accessory rails, no bed access features and no supplementary storage bins as you might find in the Tacoma, for example. And since you can only get a five-foot bed with the SuperCrew cab, the length of items you can haul is limited.

Should be fine for dirt bikes and camping gear which will probably do for those in a market for a Lariat-spec truck. If hauling longer items is of more importance, meanwhile, you can always go for an XL-spec truck, but then you consider that you can get a larger F-150 in XLT spec – with the longer box – for similar money to a Ranger XLT. Even with the arrival of the Maverick, however, you’d kind of be missing the point, I fear, if you were looking to the Ranger to be your work truck. It’s styled and specced to be an honest-to-goodness alternative to CUVs or even smaller SUVs and you’re better off going with something larger if work is your goal.

If you’re looking for something with just a little more practicality than a crossover, though – and something different than a Tacoma, which are almost ubiquitous on the road today – and don’t plan on hauling around four adults on the regular, then the Ranger is an option worth exploring.

24 Trucks Plus MAGAZINE OCT/NOV 2023

RV-ING: 2024 AIRSTREAM RANGELINE

Designed for Comfort Story by Howard J Elmer, photos courtesy of Airstream

use in mind. The coach offers dynamic living spaces, flexible storage, and high-performance onboard systems.

A

I’ve reviewed Class B’s that use the Ram ProMaster as a base chassis before. It’s popular with several manufacturers because as a frontwheel drive configuration it has a low step-in height, no driveshaft to contend with, and a reputation for reliability at a decent price. It features the 3.6L Pentastar V6 engine that makes 276 hp. It’s mated to a TorqueFlite nine-speed automatic transmission. This V6 is quite fuel efficient considering the job it’s doing. It’s a nice feature in a Class B – which tends to travel more than most motorhomes. The estimated fuel economy is 12L/100 km.

irstream builds a variety of RVs. The most iconic of course is the shiny, rounded travel trailer. This is something they have been doing since 1931. A fact, a little less known, is that they also build motorized units. And, while this is a smaller portion of their business, they attend to the design and construction of motorhomes with the same quality control they use with their trailers.

Still the build numbers are low, so they can be considered a boutique brand as they don’t build for the masses. Quality and unique design are

With a length of just 21 feet, Rangeline has enough space to bring along the comforts of home but is small enough to easily manoeuvre through parking lots, down backroads, and into driveways.

The main swinging entry door is the hub for your campsite and serves as the pathway for moving in and out. A patio light illuminates this area, under the roof-mounted awning that provides shade and protection from light rains. You can set the awning to your preferred length, regardless

what they are known for. This way of building also equals a premium priced product. But for many, the value is apparent as they are coming up to 100 years in business. They must be doing something right.

New for 2024, Airstream is adding to its Class B offerings with a new model – the Rangeline. Built on the Ram ProMaster 3500 chassis, this European-inspired Class B was designed with comfort and ease of 26 Trucks Plus MAGAZINE OCT/NOV 2023

That was EZ.

EZ Liner Bedliner and Industrial Strength Coating

1. Prep 2. Mix 3. Apply, it’s EZ! The toughest bedliner available to protect your hard earned investment. EZ Liner remains WLYTHULU[S` ÅL_PISL VɈLYPUN [OL ILZ[ HKOLZPVU HUK K\YHIPSP[` VM HU` HM[LY THYRL[ HU[P ZRPK JVH[PUN ,A 3PULY ^VU»[ MHKL HUK ZLHSZ V\[ TVPZ[\YL YLZPZ[Z OLH]` PTWHJ[Z HUK YLK\JLZ YVHK UVPZL (SZV NYLH[ MVY [YHPSLY 9= HUK ÄM[O ^OLLS ^H[LYWYVVÄUN (]HPSHISL PU H JVU]LUPLU[ HLYVZVS MVY [V\JO \WZ HUK YLWHPYZ HZ ^LSS HZ [OL WYV[LJ[PVU VM ZTHSSLY Z\YMHJL HYLHZ

AVAILABLE AT

dominionsureseal.com | 1-800-265-0790

if the sliding door is open or not. It includes spring-loaded tension arms, ensuring a stable and wind-resistant attachment to either the ground or the side of the touring coach. Here you’ll also see a grab handle for mobility, which doubles as a towel rack. Cubbies offer accessible storage for items such as boots and camp gear. The slip-resistant running board reduces the step height while the sliding screen door lets a breeze flow through without the bugs.

When you step through Rangeline’s sliding door, you’ll find an expansive interior with soft wood tones and elegant lines inspired by European RV design. Flexible storage and multi-use functionality are key in this design. Rangeline is designed for a couple – however there is an optional pop-top that expands the sleeping space if desired.

The galley, bathroom (wet bath), dinette and seating are all designed to offer the most flexibility while taking up the least amount of space.

To that end, Rangeline is designed with simplified power and comfort systems. In fact, as far as comfort goes, there is a reference to “always having a bathroom at hand” in their literature. As I get older, that statement resonates with me.

There is no propane on-board; everything from the water heater to the generator runs on gasoline. Any trip prep is now as easy as filling up the gas tank. An intuitive multiplex system makes it easier than ever to monitor and manage resources.

A few other highlights of the Rangeline: • 270Ah lithium battery and 2,000-watt inverter come standard • Generator is standard. Gas-Fueled 2.8 kW Ultra-Quiet w/Remote Start • Solar Power: Single 200-watt Panel • Touch Screen/Touch Pad Electronic Controls with Energy Management System • Converter/Inverter: 100-Amp Charger, 2,000-watt True Sine Inverter • Batteries (Coach) 270 Ah Deep Cycle Lithium Gamechanger Battle Born Battery (LiFePO4) • Shore Power: 30 Amp/110 V Service

28 Trucks Plus MAGAZINE OCT/NOV 2023

Chassis: ........................................ Ram ProMaster 3500 Engine:. .................... 3.6L Pentastar V6 24V VVT Engine Horsepower:................................. 276 HP @ 6,400 RPM Torque: ............................................. 250 lb-ft @ 4,400 RPM Transmission:.................................... 9-speed Automatic GVWR/GCWR:.. ...............................9,350 lbs / 12,000 lbs UBW:........................ 7,661 lbs. (7,994 lbs. with Pop-Top) OCCC:...................... 1,689 lbs. (1,356 lbs. with Pop-Top) Tow Package:................... Class IV Hitch with 7-Pin Plug Tow Capacity:.......................................... Up To 3,500 lb Overall Length:.................................................... 20’ 11” Overall Height:................................. 9’ 5” (Including A/C) Overall Width:..................................................... 8’ 2.25” Interior Height/Width:. ........................................ 6’ 2.25” Tank Capacities:... 28 gals (Fresh), 19 gals (Gray), 12 gals (Waste) Air Conditioner:. ...................... 13,500 BTU w/ Soft Start Furnace:. Gasoline Fired Hydronic Furnace and Hot Water System Heated Tanks:. ........................ Waste and Grey (12 volt)

WWW.LORDCO.COM

DRIVEN TO KEEP YOU MOVING Lordco Auto Parts delivers an exceptional customer experience fueled by quality and expertise driven to keep you moving.

GROW WITH US Lordco Auto Parts has undergone many changes over its 48 years, but nothing compared to the opening of its 328,194-square-foot distribution centre in 2022.

Designed for today and future growth, the center supports semi-autonomous order pickers and autonomous robotic forks and has room to scale operations by up to fifty percent.

More than a state-of-the-art distribution center, the new building symbolizes our commitment to modernize, expand and grow our business alongside yours.

89

STORES

2100 EMPLOYEES

* 17 FEATURING TRUCK CENTERS *

500 VEHICLES

2

MACHINE SHOPS

5

CENTRALIZED DISTRIBUTION CENTER

PRODUCT CATEGORIES

Automotive • RV • Body Shop • Chemicals • Engine Parts • Equipment • High Performance • Tools • Truck Accessories

Lordco Auto Parts is Western Canada’s largest distributor and retailer of aftermarket parts and accessories.

Off-Road Icon 2023 Jeep Wrangler Willys Story and photos by Dan Heyman

T

he Jeep Wrangler is an icon. There’s pretty much no denying it. Cultural icon, military icon, movie icon, off-road icon – you name it, the Wrangler (or its CJ, Willys, TJ and so on forebears) has earned that label. There are few more recognizable vehicles in the world than that.

What’s funny, however, is that even though the Wrangler will always be recognized as such, the brand continues to push the envelope with all manner of special editions and engine combinations. While we’ve seen the 4xe version for some time now, this is the first time we’ve seen it in Willys form. In this spec, Willys is the entry-level model (gas-only Wranglers get a more basic “Sport S” model), meaning a $58,277 cost of entry after $4,500 in Canadian government rebates. Which is about the same as you’ll spend on

a gas-only Willys – a nice surprise, considering the potential fuel savings associated with its plug-in hybrid (PHEV) powertrain.

The 4xe is the brand’s first foray into this sphere for North America and though it’s been followed by a Grand Cherokee 4xe, the Wrangler remains the best-selling plug-in hybrid vehicle (PHEV) in North America. That’s right; they sell more rough-and-tumble, removable-door, folding-windshield Wrangler 4xes than they do Toyota Prius or RAV4 Primes, Kia Sorento PHEVs or Mitsubishi Outlander PHEVs. That’s darn impressive.

Being a PHEV, the Wrangler gets a gas engine – on this case, a turbocharged two-litre – as well as an EV motor for propulsion.

What makes it so attractive is that it can run on full electric power for a claimed 45 km, although I only managed about 38 during my various tests of the tech. But more on that later.

OCT/NOV 2023 Trucks Plus MAGAZINE 31

The 4xe uses its combined power sources to make 375 horsepower and 470 pound-feet of torque, fed through an eight-speed automatic transmission – just like its V6 and four-cylinder siblings – to all four wheels and, in Willys form gets some dark wheels and matching fenders as well as cool “Willys” graphics on the side of the hood. Like other 4xe models, it still gets the blue tint on its various exterior badges and bits such as the winch mounts.

Which, of course, it does and thanks to the instant hit of torque you get with the EV motor, it actually adds to the off-road performance.

It’s not window dressing, either; Jeep took one of these on the famous Rubicon Trail off-road course and managed to complete the 35-km jaunt all on EV power.

To keep the Wrangler 4xe capable, they’ve installed the EV motor between the engine and transmission and put the battery underneath the rear seats and wrapped in an aluminum cage. That way, it doesn’t have to sit in the floor – where it often does in PHEVs – which would likely mean a sacrifice to the ground clearance that the 4xe needs. So instead of losing ground clearance, you lose a bit of storage below the seats. That’s it.

That’s it and that’s all well and good, but as is the case with many PHEVs I test, what I wanted to find out with the 4xe was just how easily everything could be tweaked or modified to get the most out of the powertrain.

Which is something I didn’t have to try too hard to figure out because Jeep has made it so darn easy.

Just above the driver’s left knee sit three buttons marked “hybrid”, “electric” and “e-save”. The first one makes use of everything the powertrain has to offer for forward progress, the second setting is for EV-only driving – that’s what I used in the city during my 38 32 OFF-ROAD Plus MAGAZINE OCT/NOV 2023

km run – while the third acts as a hybrid setting, but will never allow your charge level to drop below what it was at when you first pressed the button. It will also charge the battery as you drive, all the way up to 85 per cent of its capacity.

In addition to that, there’s a button marked with a battery on the centre stack. What it does is allow for full-regen mode, meaning the EV motor runs backwards when you release the throttle to regen as much power as possible. Unfortunately, it isn’t a full one-pedal driving affair as no matter where I tried it – uphill, downhill, flat, in space, under water – it never stopped fully until I went to the brake. It does help with power regen, although I didn’t notice a huge difference in my overall range when I used it, and when I didn’t.

Of course, being a PHEV, all this might be considered moot if you can plug in at the end of the day; do that, and assuming you work a reasonable distance away, you could spend your entire week in EV mode. And, uncharacteristically for a Wrangler, you’d be doing it in a fairly relaxed manner as there’s no powertrain noise. You’ll still have wind noise and the gentle-sometimes-notso-gentle hum of the tires on the pavement below, but this 4xe has done for the Wrangler what I never thought possible – not only has it modernized it, it’s cultured it.

Of course, if you want a little more “Jeepiness” from your Wrangler, you can also get the 4xe powertrain in the Sahara and Rubicon forms.

There’s just something about adding an electrified powertrain that makes it a more accessible vehicle for more people. People, perhaps, that always wanted a Wrangler but couldn’t really justify

its somewhat un-efficient attitude or something along those could be swayed.

This is the thing, really; I have no reason to believe that the Jeep purists won’t love this as much as any other Wrangler, but in addition to that, there could be a whole new customer base it appeals to. Judging by the success of other Jeep models that are already using the 4xe powertrain in other markets, that seems like a darn good bet.

OCT/NOV 2023 OFF-ROAD Plus MAGAZINE 33

Attractive Package

2023 Honda Pilot TrailSport

Story and photos by Gerry Frechette

A

s we wrote last month in Trucks Plus, many of the manufacturers are looking to position their family SUVs as being more off-road capable, or “rugged” if you prefer. There are the appearance upgrades, of course, that shout out “This SUV Is Capable” to others on the road, but of course, it is the mechanical and electronic upgrades that get the job done.

Honda introduced an all-new Pilot mid-sized three-row SUV for the 2023 model year, and a more capable soft-road family rig you couldn’t hope for. But of course, there was room for more capability within the basic limitations of the platform itself. Enter the TrailSport.

Actually, there had been the beginnings of the model in previous Pilots and the smaller Passport SUV, but for the new Pilot, Honda has upped its game with new applications of technology, combined with traditional solutions.

Primary among the latter group are raised ride height (by an inch), softer front anti-roll bar and suspension tuning, skid plates underneath to protect the machinery, and 265/60-18 all-terrain tires with a more coarse tread design. As you might expect, the resulting increased capability off-road is countered by a less refined and capable on-road driving experience.

The ride remains smooth thanks to the softer suspension and 18-inch tires (vs 20-inch on regular Pilots) but the handling composure is a bit compromised.

The aforementioned boost in technology is primarily in the all-wheel drive system. AWD is not typically considered the system to have for serious off-roading, but it can be made to perform beyond snow and gravel environments with electronic

34 OFF-ROAD Plus MAGAZINE OCT/NOV 2023

enhancement, and this, Honda has done. They call the AWD system Intelligent Variable Torque Management, and in Trail driving mode (one of several the driver can choose among), the “Trail Torque Logic” algorithm will send up to 70 percent of torque to the rear wheels, and 75 percent of that rear torque to the wheel with the most traction. We tried it out on a brief off-road course that we might have hesitated to attempt with a ‘normal’ AWD set-up, and the Pilot did very well, although with the longer wheelbase, one should always be concerned with high-centring. This torque-vectoring, as it has come to be known generically, also benefits on-road handling.

We think very few TrailSport owners will push the boundaries of its off-road capabilities, so it has to be the complete package for everyday on-road family use, and it is. It is longer than the last generation Pilot by a few inches, and that length has been put to good use inside, with the third row seat in particular being almost suitable for adults, not something one has come to expect. Of course, with that rear-most seat folded down, as we’d expect most of them to be, the cargo area is quite capacious.

The view from the driver’s seat, which is covered in easy-clean leatherette, shows a lot of analogue controls like knobs and buttons, especially

for the HVAC system, which are much appreciated over digital controls.

Especially given that the touchscreen is towards the smallish side these days at 9 inches. Maybe that is not as crucial, as there is no navigation available on TrailSport. Nor is there a second-row bench seat; the product planners have specified two captain’s chairs, making the TrailSport a seven-seater at most. There are storage bins and cupholders everywhere. The audio is a 225-watt 9-speaker system that is okay, but the premium Bose audio is not available at this level.

The TrailSport, like all Pilots, comes with a full suite of advanced safety gear, including lane-departure warning and keeping assistance, road

departure mitigation, forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert.

Mechanically, Honda has kept with the V6 engine for all its larger vehicles, resisting what seems to be the trend towards large four-cylinders with turbos in the bigger SUVs. Not only that, it is a new design with what we believe to be a first in mainstream V6s for Honda – double overhead cams. Also, it marks the departure of the VTEC system which prioritized high-rpm power. The company says that the new direction is primarily to address current and future emissions standards. It is smooth in a way that no turbo four can be, but those fours put out more torque low down, and you need to rev the V6 a bit to get the acceleration you want, with

peak torque at a lofty 5,000 rpm. Backing it up is a ten-speed automatic, so the engine will stick in the best power range at all times. A towing package is standard, with a 5,000-pound rating.

So, the Pilot TrailSport is Honda’s entry into the ‘rugged’ family SUV arena, and on balance, we think it is an attractive package that gives an active family more opportunity to go off the beaten path for that adventure.

But if you really have no need for capability beyond snow and gravel, take a look at the ‘normal’ Pilots.

MSRP (Base): .............................................................. $60,884 Vehicle Layout: ................... Front engine, AWD, 4-door SUV Engine: ............................................................... 3.5L DOHC V6 Transmission: ....................................................... 10-spd auto Power: ............................................................................. 285 hp Torque: .................................................... 262 lb-ft @ 5,000 rpm Brakes: ..........................................................4-wheel disc, ABS Curb Weight: .............................................................. 2,130 kg Towing capacity: ...................................................... 2,268 kg Fuel Consumption (L/100 km, city/hwy): ................ 13.0/10.3 36 OFF-ROAD Plus MAGAZINE OCT/NOV 2023

Visually Compelling 2023 Land Rover Defender 90

Story and photos by Benjamin Yong

A

fter a long hiatus from the North American market, the Land Rover Defender finally returned in 2020 boasting a perfect blend of heritage and contemporary design. Out of the three currently-offered models (90, 110, 130), the two-door 90 OffRoad Plus tested is a favourite of many due to the short wheelbase providing an aesthetically-pleasing profile and nimble handling.

“The New Defender is respectful of its past but is not harnessed by it. Its unique personality is accentuated by its distinctive silhouette and optimum proportions, which make it both highly desirable and seriously capable — a visually compelling 4x4 that wears its design and engineering integrity with uncompromised commitment,” says Gerry McGovern, Jaguar Land Rover chief creative officer, in a press release.

Just like the original, the SUV retains a boxy, upright stance, thin Alpine light windows on the edge of the roof, side-hinged tailgate and external-mounted spare tire. The half-circle LED daytime running lights inside the rectangular headlamp housings are a nod to the classic round lamps, and “DEFENDER” is still spelled out across the front of the hood.

Our media tester had the Adventure Pack equipped adding a tough-looking silver Gear Carrier storage box covering the rear passenger-side window, mud flaps and scuff plate to protect the bumper when loading and unloading.

Similar to the exterior, the cabin combines a classic stripped-down utilitarian appearance with modern luxury. The exposed bolts on the door panels and 38 OFF-ROAD Plus MAGAZINE OCT/NOV 2023

centre console are inset into plush two-tone leather, and an upgraded 11.4-inch Pivi Pro infotainment screen floats above the centre stack where the gear shifter is innovatively located. Moving the lever to the dash also allows the installation of an optional middle jump seat, serving as yet another throwback.

Unsurprisingly, of the trio of Defenders, the 90 features the least cargo space. There’s only 397 litres behind the second row compared to the

For those who fancy a bit of off-roading, this Defender has the stiffest Land Rover body to date utilizing an all-aluminium monocoque. Approach, departure and breakover angles are rated at 38, 40 and 31 respectively, and if the air suspension is fitted the body can be raised 145 millimetres to clear anything encountered on the route, or lowered 40 millimetres to aid ingress and egress.

The latest generation of the Terrain Response system unlocks detailed fine-tuning of controls —for example the locking of the centre and/or rear limited slip differentials and customizing throttle and gearbox behaviour — and users may save their settings to one of four individual profile slots.

Or, activate the Auto mode and let the computer analyse the surface conditions and adjust accordingly.

In addition, Wade is a new function within the Terrain Response menu that when turned on softens the throttle; sets the HVAC to recirculate; locks the driveline; raises the ride height and shows on screen the depth of surrounding water so whomever is behind the wheel has full confidence while fording a deep puddle or stream as deep as a maximum 900 millimetres.

Bringing a trailer along on the journey? Towing capacity is rated up to 8,200 pounds.

The 2023 Land Rover Defender 90 is sold in four trims (S, X-Dynamic SE, X and V8), and the X-Dynamic SE retails for $88,750.

more-than-double 916 litres found in the 110. Laying the bench flat however opens up the area to 1,563 litres. The big Cross Car Beam jutting up from the floor also makes stacking things like luggage challenging.

A number of different powertrains are available, including PHEV, though the X-Dynamic SE P400 loaner takes advantage of a 3.0-litre six-cylinder mild-hybrid engine producing 395 horsepower and 406 lb-ft of torque.

Mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission, the SUV is quick and an absolute hoot to pilot thanks to the aforementioned short 2,588-millimetre wheelbase, fully independent suspension and intelligent all-wheel drive that helps the vehicle just whip around corners in any weather.

Base price (MSRP): ................................................... $77,300 Type: ........................................................................ 2-door SUV Layout: ...........................................front engine, all-wheel drive Engine: ...........................................3.0L turbocharged inline six Transmission: ............................................ 8-speed automatic Power: ....................................................... 395 hp @ 5,500 rpm Torque: .................................................... 406 lb-ft @ 2,000 rpm Brakes: ................................................. front/rear disc with ABS Fuel Consumption (L/100km, city/hwy combined): . ....... 17.0

OCT/NOV 2023 OFF-ROAD Plus MAGAZINE 39

The State of Overlanding

What does the future hold?

Story and photos by Spencer Whitney, additional photos courtesy of Sofie Rordam, DefenderX

B

ack in 2017, we published a feature in Off-Road Plus asking “What is Overland?” Despite the years that have passed, we still find ourselves revisiting that question. The term may date back to the wagon trains of the 19th century (or perhaps earlier) but the steady rise of vehicle-supported travel over the past 10 years has cemented overlanding as a recreation activity in itself – however mixed with traditional “off-roading” it might be. So, with an unwritten future ahead of us we thought we’d revisit what’s changed in the space, and what overlanding could mean in the future.

In the last few years there has been an explosion of overlanding in the greater automotive market. No longer a hobby restricted to weekendwheelers who want a bit more of an adventure, car manufacturers have now latched on to the trend, along with countless product brands, shops, installers, influencers, and content creators. This saturation of the market has had positive and negative effects. 2020 brought us travel restrictions and boredom, leading to a surge of new participants – many people who had never touched a tire to gravel were now venturing out into the wilderness, equipped with whatever their local shop could fit on their rig.

The number of overland-kitted vehicles roaming city streets today in Canada is impressive – to some, it might evoke memories of the early 2000s, when every other hot hatch was decked out in wheels and wings as if preparing for a lap of the Nürburging. Most of these vehicles never got close to a racetrack, but the enthusiasm was still rampant. It’s no surprise then that some of the most intensely kitted overland rigs on the road today are probably never going to see rough trails – but is there anything wrong with that? For the dedicated off-road crowd, there has never been more choice for components and accessories than today, and that’s largely driven by our mall-crawling friends.

So, is overlanding just upmarket car camping now? There’s no reason why you can’t buy a normal compact SUV, pick up a ground tent and a basic gas stove, and set off in to the unknown. Yet that is the original spirit of ‘extended vehicle-supported travel’ – the original and enduring definition of the automotive “overland” term. Are we breaking the rules by only going camping for a weekend? Does driving a brand-new $75,000 4x4 betray the spirit and sacrifice of those who overlanded before us?

Probably not. In fact, a certain overland club will quickly remind you that “it doesn’t matter what you drive” – and they’re right.

What does this mean for the future? With so many trails, camp sites, and destinations gaining in popularity, it’s inevitable that some of the more intrepid among us will start seeking desolated destinations further afield.

Even though there’s already a well-trodden trail of international overlanders who come to Canada, there are so many places in this country that go unnoticed – most of them are on the paved route to the Arctic Circle, after all. If you want to keep the spirit of overland travel alive, forget about Instagram posts or YouTube videos – you’ll need to find your own spots and create your own routes. The essential tenet of overlanding isn’t vague goals like ‘adventure’ – it’s enjoying the journey itself.

And before you point out that there’s an ever-dwindling number of untouched places on the planet, you need only look at expeditions like Transglobal and Defender X – both groups have made waves in the last year (literally and figuratively) by taking their overland vehicles across

40 OFF-ROAD Plus MAGAZINE OCT/NOV 2023

oceans (assisted by pontoons or ice, of course.) These expeditions harken back to an era of overlanding when the world was much, much wilder – and the fact they can re-ignite that spirit in 2023 is very inspiring.

Aside from watching well-funded overlanders venture across the world, what does the future hold for us average enthusiasts? Since 2020, there has been a surge in interest for overland trailers and pickup truck camper builds. Do these cushy setups go against everything overlanding stands for? In the 1950s, a group of college students managed to drive two Land Rovers all the way from London to Singapore – the famed Oxford and Cambridge Far Eastern Expedition – with little more than household kitchen supplies and a canvas tent. Why the need for ever-complicated rigs? The answer is simple – many owners of these setups say that they’d be more likely to go on an extended trip if they were able to do it in comfort. Part of the enthusiasm for new gear is the promise that it makes our lives simpler, easier, and more comfortable. It’s quite possible that those boys in the ‘50s would have happily agreed to take a couple of Earthroamers on their trip!

Along with all the gear comes overland events. We’ve lost track of how many Overland Expo shows there are each year, along with all of the smaller regional events that take place throughout North America. It’s great to see small businesses finding a place to expose themselves to new customers, but if you attended even two of these events you’d probably find yourself without any time to do your own exploring away from the crowds. If you’re busy chasing down new toys, you might miss out on new places to discover on the road. So, it’s possible that we’ve reached “peak event” and as the hobby starts to level off in popularity over the next few years, a few outlying events might get dropped from the calendar.

The future may play out in the same way that the previously mentioned tuner culture did – a gradual decline based on demographic change, evolving vehicle styles, and a general burnout from too much ‘stuff.’ Our wild guess is that within five years we might start seeing overland travel limited by EVs and alternative fuel vehicles, ushering in an era of ‘back to basics’ – minimalist camping in a basic vehicle without all the gear, very little social media posting, and a personal connection with the trip and the places you might visit. Then again, there’s certainly people out there right now doing exactly that – embodying the spirit of overland travel without feeling the need to shout their daily thoughts from the rooftops.

So, next time you plan a trip, think about what you want the future of overland travel to be – and act on it! Keep the drone at home, forget the extra recovery boards, leave the LED light strings behind, and enjoy the experience.

OCT/NOV 2023 OFF-ROAD Plus MAGAZINE 41

TECH: NEW PRODUCTS

GEARING UP

Toyo Observe GSi6

Wilwood’s Mechanical Parking Brake Caliper Now Available in New Sizes Wilwood has added new MC4 stand-alone mechanical parking brake caliper sizes and are now available for 11.00- to 14.00-in. diameter rotors in .25- to -1.10-in. widths. The larger units are sized for use on the rear of many cars and trucks while the smaller units are ideal for various powersports or similar machines. The calipers are constructed of die-cast and forged aluminum for lighter weight with a steel bracket and lever arm for strength. Both right and lefthanded options are available, each with a lever cartridge that can be clocked in three locations for optimum positioning and ease of cable routing. The caliper bodies are available in gloss red or black powder coat, or Type-III hard anodized coating.

Toyo Observe’s GSi-6 studless performance winter tire features significant performance improvements over its predecessor, utilizing its directional tread design with staggered tread blocks to maximize traction and handling while also improving ride comfort. Crushed walnut shells are embedded into the tire tread compound to dig and bite into the ice or snowy surfaces for improved traction. The tires are available in many different sizes from 14-in. all the way up to 22-in.

For more information please go to www.toyotires.ca

For more information please go to www.wilwood.com

Enthuze Tri Fold Snowmobile & ATV Ramp

Truck Hardware Gatorback Mudflap for 2022-23 Ford Maverick Enthuze’s Tri-Fold ATV/Snowmobile ramp features a heavy-duty, fully welded aluminum construction that has directional traction pads that allow for use in all weather conditions. The embossed holes provide 360-degree anti-skid, while the full-width top plate distributes weight evenly across the tailgate. Made of heavy-duty, fully welded construction with rust-proof aluminum, the ramp has a weight capacity of 1,500 lbs.

Truck Hardware has released its Gatorback heavy-duty mudflaps for the new 2022-23 Ford Maverick pickup truck. These premium rubber mudflaps offer the best protection from stones and road debris.

Measuring 10-inches wide, they provide full tire width coverage.

Available in black or stainless finishes, these mudflaps are a big upgrade over plastic mudguards. They feature custom-fit mounting hardware with no-body drill installation and are available with officially licensed die-stamped logo plates. They are made in Canada using virgin rubber and premium stainless steel hardware.

For more information please go to www.enthuze.ca

For more information please go to www.truckhardware.ca

42 Trucks Plus MAGAZINE OCT/NOV 2023

SPC Jeep Front Lower Control Arm SPC’s direct-fit, stock-length front lower control arm adds strength and articulation flexibility to your stock-height or ‘lifted’ suspension Wrangler or Gladiator. It features SPC’s xAxis™ sealed flex joint at the axle end to provide bind-free ‘twist’ between the frame and axle during off-road articulation and an OE rubber bushing on the frame end to reduce NVH (Noise Vibration & Harshness). The D.O.M. steel construction provides the strength required for large tires and aggressive gearing and the arm is available for 2018-23 Jeep Wranglers and the 2020-2023 Jeep Gladiators.

For more information please go to www.specprod.com

CURT Echo In-Line Trailer Brake Controller with Bluetooth Smartphone Connection CURT’s new Echo in-line trailer brake controller plugs into your vehicle and wirelessly connects to your smartphone which allows you to control and monitor all trailer brake activity directly from your own device whether it be Apple or Android. The Echo comes with a custom-designed app that displays brake control settings and activity and sends you status updates while allowing you to receive incoming calls while the app is still running. The brake controller operates using a triple-axis motion-sensing accelerometer which is an integrated circuit that produces safe, smooth stops every time. It is compatible with two to eight trailer brakes and can be used with low-voltage or PWM wiring systems.

For more information please go to www.curtmfg.com

OCT/NOV 2023 Trucks Plus MAGAZINE 43

TECH: NEW PRODUCTS

GEARING UP

Bright Source Amber/White Raptor-Style LED Marker Light

BOLT Jeep JL Hood Lock BOLT’s Jeep JL Hood Lock rivets into existing holes on your Jeep for easy installation. It comes with a replacement grille insert and secures your under-hood items from theft. The lock’s plate tumbler sidebar prevents picking and bumping. The stainless steel lock shutter keeps out dirt and moisture and comes with a Limited Lifetime Warranty. It is available for the 2018-present Jeep Wrangler JL. For more information please go to www.boltlock.com

Eibach PRO-LIFT-LIT for Ram TRX Eibach’s PRO-LIFT-KIT Springs for the 2021-2023 Ram TRX are developed using championship winning off-road race technology that provides the maximum lift without compromising factory components or ride quality. The kit is designed for use with OE shocks and increases ground clearance as well as fender clearance for larger tires and wheels. Not only will the springs improve off-road performance, but they also provide excellent on-road stability and handling characteristics.

For more information please go to www.eibach.com 44 OFF-ROAD Plus MAGAZINE OCT/NOV 2023

Bright Source is now offering new amber/white, Raptor-style LED marker lights that are meant to sit in your vehicle’s grille and provide a nice appearance upgrade while also providi ng more light output which is ideal for dark driving situations.

One light is able to change between amber or white and features a waterproof, ultra low-profile design that integrates nicely into your grille.

The lights come with three mounting solutions including self-adhesive backing, stainless steel screws or a plastic bracket.

For more information please go to www.brightsource.ca

Nitto Terra Grappler G2 AW Nitto’s Terra Grappler G2 is an all-terrain, all-weather tire that has been designed to provide you with great performance both on- and off-road. It features full-depth siping which not only offers a functional benefit but also helps maintain the appearance of the tread design as the tire gradually wears. The tires feature an all-weather tread which does include the three-peak mountain symbol which is necessary to drive on some Canadian highways during the winter months.

For more information please go to www.nittotire.com

ICON’s New 3-In. Suspension Systems for 2021-2023 Ford F-150 Tremor ICON has announced a new range of 3-in. complete suspension systems for the 2021-2023 Ford F-150 Tremor. All kits feature ICON 2.5 vehicle series front coilovers and rear shocks plus tubular front upper control arms with ICON’s patented Delta Joint PRO. The

Mile Marker Rhino Field Kit Mile Marker’s new Rhino Field kit comes with the Rhino Pull 1000 portable electric winch that features 39-ft. of synthetic rope with a wireless controller that has a backup corded remote for a seamless swap if the wireless remote’s battery falters. The LED display offers real time feedback for the winch that boasts a 1,000-lb. capacity which is ideal to effortlessly transport items across various environments. The kit also comes with a plethora of recovery helpers such as straps, shackles, gloves, accessory bags, a docking station charger and a case that keeps everything organized and easy-to-find.

For more information please go to www.milemarker.com

coilovers provide a 20-percent increase in travel over stock while also providing superior ride quality and off-road handling. The shocks are custom tuned for each specific vehicle and all stages also include tubular or billet front upper control arms to provide bind-free travel and caster correction. There are five separate kits available.

For more information please go to www.iconvehicledynamics.com

OCT/NOV 2023 OFF-ROAD Plus MAGAZINE 45

STUCK TRUCKS He’s in a bit deep here.

Hopefully help is on the way!

First question has to be why were they out there in this thing?

Hopefully he doesn’t have to have the U-Haul back anytime soon.

A final reminder to always check those clearances.

At least he came prepared to possibly get stuck.

Guess it doesn’t take much for a hatchback to get stuck...

We’re sure that most of you have had the misfortune of getting stuck while out on a weekend adventure. So send us your photos of your adventure to stucktrucks@rpmcanada.ca and if we use your photos we’ll send you a cool Trucks Plus hat!

46 Trucks Plus MAGAZINE OCT/NOV 2023

CELEBRATING 35 YEARS

as your go-to source for American Made, Top Quality Steering Columns and Accessories

• American Made • Lifetime Warranty • Engineered for superior fit and finish • Accessories and Install Kits available • Universal, Retrofit, and Custom applications • Unrivaled Customer Service and Tech Support IDIDIT, LLC | 610 S. MAUMEE ST, TECUMSEH MI | 517-424-0577 | ididit.com