Welcome to a deep-dive into the much-anticipated 2024 Chevrolet Silverado, a vehicle that brings together heritage and modernity. In the world of heavy-duty, hard-working trucks, the Silverado lineage…

What’s New with the 2024 Chevrolet Silverado? A Look into the Future of Trucks

Welcome to a deep-dive into the much-anticipated 2024 Chevrolet Silverado, a vehicle that brings together heritage and modernity. In the world of heavy-duty, hard-working trucks, the Silverado lineage stands tall, and the 2024 model aims to uphold this tradition.

Available in various trims and cab sizes, the 2024 Silverado caters to a range of needs and budgets, with prices starting at an accessible $44,899 and going up to $83,999 for the luxury trim. But what else does this incarnation of the Chevrolet flagship bring to the Canadian market?

Under the Hood: Powertrain Options and Towing Capacity

First, let’s explore under the hood. The Silverado offers a wide range of powertrain options, including a 2.7-litre four-cylinder at 310 horsepower and 430 pounds of torque, a turbodiesel 3.0-litre six-cylinder with 305 horsepower and 495 pounds of torque. A 5.3-liter V8 with 355 horsepower and 383 pounds of torque reflecting its robust capabilities and a 6.2-litre V8 with 420 horsepower and 460 pounds of torque. Of these, the 6.2-liter V-8 engine stands out as the quickest, boasting impressive handling and firm brake feedback.

When it comes to towing capacity, the 2024 Silverado outperforms its rivals such as the Ram 1500 with a maximum towing capacity of 13,300 pounds when equipped with the 6.2-liter V-8 engine this stays competitive with the Ford F-150 which clocks a 14,000-pound towing capacity. This makes the Silverado an ideal choice for those heavy-duty hauling tasks.

Off-Road Capabilities: Exploring the Trail Boss and ZR2 Models

Off-road enthusiasts are in for a treat with the Silverado’s two specialized offerings. The Trail Boss model features upgrades that include a 2-inch suspension lift, 275/65R18 Goodyear Wrangler DuraTrac all-terrain tires, a specific steel bumper for better clearance, large tow hooks, Rancho monotube shocks, and a rear Eaton MLocker automatic mechanical locking differential for improved traction. On the other hand, the Silverado 1500 ZR2 brings in 33-inch off-road tires, Multimatic spool-valve dampers, and a distinctive rugged appearance. It can be equipped with either a 420-hp 6.2-liter V-8 or a 305-hp turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six Duramax diesel, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and four-wheel drive. Additional off-road enhancements include trimmed front and rear bumpers and a tucked muffler. While not as extreme as some competitors like the Ram 1500 TRX or Ford F-150 Raptor, the ZR2 sits more closely with the Toyota Tundra TRD Pro or F-150 Tremor in its off-road prowess. Adventure awaits with the Silverado, no matter the road conditions.

Technology and Luxury Inside: Infotainment and Safety Features

In terms of updates, the 2024 Silverado comes with a few pleasant surprises. New metallic paint options have been introduced for added visual appeal, alongside an active exhaust system for the 420-hp 6.2-liter V-8 models. The luxurious High Country trim also offers the Midnight Edition, adding a new level of sophistication to this hardworking truck.

Inside the cabin, a range of luxury options are available depending on the trim. An upgraded infotainment system is standard across all models, offering wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a mobile hotspot. Higher trims feature a Google-powered voice assistant and Amazon Alexa integration, keeping you connected wherever your journey takes you.

Safety hasn’t been compromised, with standard driver-assistance technology including forward-collision warning, automated emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and lane-departure warning. Additionally, the High Country trim offers GM’s hands-free driving technology, Super Cruise, further enhancing the driving experience.

Looking Ahead: Warranty, Customer Satisfaction, and the Silverado EV

When it comes to warranty, Chevrolet provides three years or 60,000 kilometers of coverage, and a powertrain warranty covering five years or 100,000 kilometers. Complimentary maintenance is also offered for the first visit, showcasing Chevrolet’s commitment to customer satisfaction.

In addition to the remarkable offerings in the Silverado lineup, Chevrolet is also venturing into the future of automotive technology with the introduction of the Silverado EV. This battery electric full-size pickup truck, set to be manufactured by General Motors under the Chevrolet brand, marks a significant step towards embracing sustainable driving solutions. Introduced in January 2022, the Silverado EV is poised to hit the North American market in the fall of 2023 for the 2024 model year. This exciting addition expands Chevrolet’s commitment to innovation, bringing a new dimension to the Silverado’s legacy of power and performance.

In conclusion, the 2024 Chevrolet Silverado marks a significant evolution of this hard-working, reliable truck. Its wide-ranging capabilities, combined with its updated tech and features, maintain its position as a formidable choice in the competitive pickup truck market. So, whether you’re a long-time Chevrolet fan or new to the brand, the Silverado promises something for everyone, and we’re excited to see where this legacy goes from here.

Need detailed information about the Vehicle Specifications? Uncover all of the new features and Discover the Silverado MSRP & Invoice Price right here

It’s true, Nissan is walking away from the full-size pickup truck segment in Canada. The Titan before you, as impressive as it is, will no longer be available north of the 49th, aside from Anchorage…

2021 Nissan Titan Crew Cab Pro-4X Road Test

2021 Nissan Titan Crew Cab Pro-4X
Despite its good looks and impressive capability, the Titan will be discontinued for 2022.

It’s true, Nissan is walking away from the full-size pickup truck segment in Canada. The Titan before you, as impressive as it is, will no longer be available north of the 49th, aside from Anchorage or Fairbanks.

As with most cancellations, it came down to a lack of sales. Nissan sold a mere 1,218 units last year and just 2,807 in 2019, while even at its peak of 2017 the Japanese automaker found just 5,692 Canadian buyers. This is actually bad news for Toyota, because its Tundra will now inherit lowest sales status, despite managing to push out a respectable 11,053 units last year (it’s high of 11,738 was in 2018). Although the Tundra’s numbers may appear lofty when shown next to the Titan’s, even mighty Toyota’s full-size offering hardly matches Ram’s 83,673 full-size pickup truck sales in 2020, or GM’s collective Chevy/GMC Silverado/Sierra deliveries of 104,279 units during the same 12 months, while Ford once again topped them all last year with 128,650 F-Series down the road.

2021 Nissan Titan Crew Cab Pro-4X
This Crew Cab body style is the only way you can still get a new Titan in Canada.

The sad reality is, Nissan’s failure to launch the Titan as a serious full-size pickup truck contender has nothing to do with the vehicle’s quality and capability. It’s one rugged, well-built half-ton, or rather two tough trucks when factoring in its larger Titan XD heavy-half sibling, with its only serious weaknesses being fewer cab/bed options and just one, lone V8 engine and eight-speed automatic transmission combination.

Currently, the Titan is just available as a Crew Cab in Canada, having dropped its smaller King Cab variant for 2020. Both cabs remain in the US, although American buyers can no longer purchase the Single Cab work truck.

2021 Nissan Titan Crew Cab Pro-4X
Done up in Pro-4X trim, the Titan looks as rugged as it is.

The Titan’s sole V8 displaces 5.6 litres and makes 400 horsepower plus 413 lb-ft of torque; the XD’s turbo-diesel was discontinued for 2020. Part-time four-wheel drive is standard in Canada, with no lower priced rear-drive alternative, but it must be said the Titan’s nine-speed automatic transmission certainly gives it an edge compared to some competitors, Toyota’s Tundra only offering six forward speeds. Still, Ford uses a 10-speed automatic in all of its full-size trucks, while GM offers the same transmission (literally) in some of its large pickups.

2021 Nissan Titan Crew Cab Pro-4X
Off-roading comes naturally to this big 4×4 pickup.

Notably, Nissan Canada’s retail site never bothered updating its Titan page with a 2021 model (clearly displaying the 2020 truck instead), even though the brand’s dealers continue to advertise the newer model year, plus third-party car sites, such as CarCostCanada, have integrated all 2021 specs along with the elimination of base S trim, which was $50,498 before, and addition of a new base 2021 SV trim for $63,698. Now (June 30, 2021), Nissan isn’t even showing trucks as an option on its side pull-down menu, strangely hoping would-be 2022 Frontier customers manage find the redesigned model in its “Future & Concept” section.

2021 Nissan Titan Crew Cab Pro-4X
Ground clearance is not a problem.

The just-mentioned 2021 base price doesn’t come anywhere near to matching the entry prices of the Titan’s domestic rivals, by the way, with the class-dominating F-150 starting at just $34,079, which isn’t even as affordable as the base Chevy Silverado 1500’s $32,048 entry point, or for that matter the Sierra 1500’s lowest window sticker of $33,248. The least expensive Ram 1500 Classic is priced just a bit higher at $36,890, and the aforementioned Tundra significantly more at $47,010. Compare those numbers to the Titan’s $63,698 base price, and it’s easy to understand how it might be difficult to get someone’s attention, unless they clearly understood that similar equipment and trim levels sold by all of the above cost around the same.

2021 Nissan Titan Crew Cab Pro-4X
Nice details, such as LED headlamps and driving lights, give the Titan a uniquely upscale look.

Unfortunately, that’s not how we tend to buy vehicles. There’s a reason that dealers advertise a vehicle’s base price, after all. We might initially become interested in a Silverado because it’s the lowest priced truck on the market, but after we get sold on one with more features, we quickly forget about the initial “loss leader” that motivated us to come down to that particular dealer in the first place. Soon it’s all about how much you can afford each month, and the sales team turns you over to the finance department.

2021 Nissan Titan Crew Cab Pro-4X
This beefy wheel and tire combo is standard in Pro-4X trim.

To be clear, the domestic trucks’ lower prices are mostly due to their inclusion of regular cab body styles, multiple engine choices, and a whole lot of additional trims, with the cheapest of each U.S. brand’s truck focused more on attracting high-volume commercial fleet buyers. The sheer volume of such trucks sold actually allows for the seemingly endless cab, bed, engine, drivetrain and trim combinations to exist, making it possible for a buyer to configure a truck exactly the way they want. Most pickup truck consumers, however, would rather buy a well-equipped four-door pickup, which is the key reason Nissan and Toyota only offer such variants.

2021 Nissan Titan Crew Cab Pro-4X
These side steps were designed to slide over and not hang up on rocks, roots or other off-road obstacles.

The Titan I most recently tested was a Crew Cab Pro-4X optimized for off-road work and pleasure. So equipped, it’s priced at $66,998, which is right in the realm of pricing acceptability for this class of truck. As stated earlier, the sales leads enjoyed by Nissan’s rivals have nothing to do with any specific competencies over the Titan. It’s a tough, capable on- and off-roader with better than average expected reliability, beefy towing and payload capacities of 9,270 lbs and 1,580 lbs respectively, plus no shortage of style. I think the Titan’s recently refreshed design, and particularly my Pro-4X-trimmed test model’s upgrades, look great, while Nissan’s interior finishing was even a bit more refined than some of its competitors.

2021 Nissan Titan Crew Cab Pro-4X
This is one sweet looking roll bar.

In detail, the Pro-4X’s dash top was completely covered in a padded soft leather-like synthetic with cool orange contrast stitching, while others only apply hard plastic to this area. This said, Nissan only uses hard-shell composites for the Titan’s door uppers, which makes them uncomfortable for those who like to rest their elbow next to the side window. The Titan does provide nicely padded leatherette door inserts above even more comfortable armrests, also featuring contrasting thread work, while the Japanese model gets even more pampering with a soft, padded bolster ahead of the front passenger.

2021 Nissan Titan Crew Cab Pro-4X
A powered rear window is a nice touch.

The Titan Pro-4X’ seats also include contrast stitching, complete with the model’s “PRO-4X” logo embroidered into their backsides, but their wide, flat shape didn’t allow much side support for my smaller body type. The driver’s seat was multi-adjustable, however, providing good positioning, but its two-way powered lumbar support never met up with the small of my back as well as others do in this class. At least it was roomy and accommodating.

Rear occupants get limousine-like legroom, while seat comfort in back is decent enough. An airy panoramic sunroof made my tester feel even more spacious, while rear outboard passengers get the comfort of a warmer behind thanks a set of seat heaters.

2021 Nissan Titan Crew Cab Pro-4X
The Titan Pro-4X cabin is impressively refined, other than those door uppers that are hard plastic.

Back up front, the Titan Pro-4X’ steering wheel is leather-wrapped with sporty thumb indentations for optimizing comfort and control, plus yet more contrast stitching gave it plenty of style to go along with its heatable rim (not available with every rival), while Nissan’s multi-information display is also larger and filled with more features than some others in the class, but is missing some useful ancillary dials within a primary gauge cluster that’s otherwise analogue.

The Titan’s centre touchscreen is fairly large and plenty colourful too (the permanent blemishes to my test model’s display were due to a previous journalist’s ammonia-infused wipe down), with no shortage of functions either. High-quality switchgear could be found through the cabin as well.

2021 Nissan Titan Crew Cab Pro-4X
The well organized cockpit provides plenty of room to get comfortable.

I learned how to drive using column-shifters, so naturally didn’t mind swapping cogs next to the Titan’s steering wheel. The arrangement (also used by Mercedes for most of its cars) frees space up on the lower console as well. The aforementioned nine-speed auto was updated by two forward gears for 2020, and delivers smooth, positive shifts via fast kickdowns when needing to take off quickly. And yes, the Titan sprints away from stoplights with little hesitation, blasts past slower moving highway traffic with only a hint of provocation, and provides a soul-stirring V8 snarl while doing so.

2021 Nissan Titan Crew Cab Pro-4X
Mostly analogue, but the multi-info display is large and colourful.

Like most trucks in this segment, the Titan rides on a fully-boxed frame and uses an independent suspension up front plus traditional leaf springs in back, which provide good composure over the majority of surfaces. The Ram 1500 is the only large truck that utilizes coil springs all-round, while all trucks in this class use steel for their cabs and boxes, other than the F-150 that’s significantly lighter due to an aluminum out shell.

2021 Nissan Titan Crew Cab Pro-4X
The overhead parking camera was a big help.

Nissan has an enviable 4×4 heritage, which left me with no concerns about going off-road with the Titan. It features a dial for engaging two- and four-wheel drive high, plus four-low when the going got tough, while its electronic and mechanical driving aids not only aid handling during slippery condition on pavement, but help overcome challenges on the trail as well. Therefore, it was easy to crawl over rocks and logs before swamping through ruts and mud-soaked pits, not to mention plenty of deep sandy spits, while generous suspension travel helped make the Titan’s ride comfortable at all times.

2021 Nissan Titan Crew Cab Pro-4X
The Pro-4X’s wide seats should fit most every body type.

When it comes to reliability, plus resale value, the Titan should fare well over time. Yes, I know it’s being discontinued, which never helps when trying to predict the latter, but Nissan has a great reputation for holding values overall, and trucks tend to do better than cars in today’s market. There are even some models that start going up in value, something we’ve seen with well-cared-for examples of the Xterra and earlier off-road capable versions of the Pathfinder in recent years. The Armada may experience similar depreciation resilience if the overland trend continues, so it makes sense that trucks like this Titan will also hold onto their value in the used market.

2021 Nissan Titan Crew Cab Pro-4X
Rear seat spaciousness is generous.

After everything is done and said, the Titan isn’t perfect, but it scores high in all the categories it needs to, particularly its better than average expected reliability, impressive refinement, well-stocked features, thoughtful design, solid construction, and potent powertrain. It’s not even that bad on fuel with a claimed combined city/highway rating of 13.3 L/100km, so you might just want to snatch one up before all the new ones are forever gone from this country.

2021 Nissan Titan Crew Cab Pro-4X
The Titan’s bed gets a grippy surface for safety in wet weather.

Nissan is currently offering up to $6,500 in additional incentives when purchasing a new 2021 Titan or Titan XD, with CarCostCanada members saving an average of $8,500 thanks to dealer invoice pricing, which gives them an edge when negotiating. Find out how this advantage will benefit you when buying your next new vehicle, and also be sure to download the free CarCostCanada app from the Apple Store or Google Play Store now, so you can have all of this vital information at your fingertips when you need it most.

Review and photos by Trevor Hofmann

This is one badass truck. Chevy got the proportions perfect, and along with the Colorado ZR2’s rugged looking styling and beefed up suspension, the General’s most popular brand has created one hell…

2019 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 Road Test

2019 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2
Great looking Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 is even more intimidating when covered in mud. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann)

This is one badass truck. Chevy got the proportions perfect, and along with the Colorado ZR2’s rugged looking styling and beefed up suspension, the General’s most popular brand has created one hell of an off-road race replica. 

Of course, the Colorado ZR2 wasn’t first to this category, and it won’t be the last. Depending on your viewpoint, the Dodge Power Wagon might have been the street-capable off-road race truck initiator, but modern-day enthusiasts will look to the 2010 Ford F-150 SVT Raptor as the segment-busting leader when it comes to OEM custom 4x4s. Not only did it set new standards from assembly line to off-road capability, but the blue-oval development team behind it almost completely changed up the model’s styling so that it came across like a totally separate model. 

2019 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2
The ZR2, just before it get bathed in hood-high brown water and mud galore. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann)

For reasons only Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) can answer, Dodge no longer makes trucks, but the newish spinoff Ram brand answered back with its 2016 to present 1500 Rebel, which is a more aggressively styled take on previous Power Wagons, while Toyota has more recently anted up with its Tundra and Tacoma TRD Pro models, the latter even featuring an ultra-cool snorkel-like air intake that makes it look as if it can literally swim its way across rivers, through mud holes, or any other type of deep, liquid deterrent. I’d be remiss not to draw attention to the new 2020 Jeep Gladiator too, which might be the most capable off-roader in the class (it’s certainly endowed with worthy heritage), while also delivering payload and trailering capabilities that define it as a true pickup truck. 

2019 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2
The ZR2 manages pavement well too. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann)

Other honourable mentions include Chevy’s redesigned Silverado that now comes with a Trail Boss package featuring a two-inch lift kit. It delivers a bit more capability than GMC Sierra Elevation trim, but it’s mostly a cosmetic exercise as there’s not much else to overcome rocks, stumps, bogs and other off-road impediments, while Nissan offers its geriatric Frontier and fresher Titan models in tougher Pro-4X trims, plus Honda antes up with the Ridgeline Black Edition… ah, yah, whatever. 

Only the Gladiator Rubicon and Tacoma TRD Pro appear as dedicated to storming the wild frontier as the Raptor, or for that matter this ZR2 (the GMC Canyon doesn’t provide anything to go head-to-head with the ZR2), the Chevy even more so with its special Bison upgrade package, but all deserve mention (including the Asian-market 2018 to present Ford Ranger Raptor that’s become very popular amongst well-heeled 4×4 fans across the Pacific). 

2019 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2
Say hello to the turbo-diesel powered ZR2. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann)

Of course, the one big differentiator between all trucks mentioned is size, the Raptor, Rebel (plus the Power Wagon), Tundra and Silverado/Sierra being full-size trucks, while the Tacoma, Ranger, Frontier and this Colorado (plus the Canyon) are compact, or more accurately, mid-size pickups. Another significant difference is powertrains, and being that this review is for a mid-size entrant I’ll focus on its key competitors, with most rivals sporting four-cylinder and (when suited up to compete off-road) V6 gasoline-powered mills and the two GM mid-size trucks doing likewise, plus adding a high-torque, fuel-efficient turbo-diesel variant. 

2019 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2
It looks great from all angles. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann)

Let’s take a look at the ZR2’s available powerplants and how they measure up against its two most credible rivals, the Jeep Gladiator and Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro, and after that take a look at some features that make the ZR2 and its competitors more capable off the beaten path. First off, I tested the ZR2 with both engines, starting with the Deepwood Green Metallic painted version (it looks grey) that’s actually a 2018 (I’ll comment on the differences later in this review). This optional colour was discontinued for 2019, but the brilliant 2.8-litre Duramax turbo-diesel four-cylinder behind its blackened grille wasn’t. It’s good for 181 horsepower and a best-in-class 369 lb-ft of torque from just 2,000 rpm, and comes mated to a capable and robust six-speed automatic gearbox. 

2019 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2
And all colours… (Photo: Trevor Hofmann)

Fuel economy is rated at 12.5 L/100km in the city, 10.7 on the highway and 11.7 combined, which is impressive for the class, but maybe not thrifty enough to justify its hefty $4,090 upgrade charge, unless you happen to put a lot of distance between trade-ins, or require the diesel’s much improved efficiency to travel deeper into the woods than gasoline-powered truck owners dare tread, or its tractor-like torque for said wilderness treks. 

Between the front wheel wells of the $495 optional Kinetic Blue Metallic painted 2019 ZR2 is the standard 3.6-litre V6 that’s good for a sizeable 308 horsepower and 275 lb-ft of torque, the latter from 4,000 rpm. Like with the Duramax turbo-diesel, the V6 drives the rear axle or both via part-time four-wheel drive, although the standard transmission is an efficient eight-speed automatic. The combination results in a claimed 15.0 L/100km city, 13.0 highway and 14.1 combined fuel economy rating, thanks in part to cylinder deactivation under light loads, but of course this pales in comparison to the oil burner. 

2019 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2
The ZR2 gets a blackened grill for a sportier look. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann)

By comparison the Gladiator solely uses FCA’s ubiquitous 3.6-litre V6 making 285 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, which is down by a significant 23-hp and 15 lb-ft of torque when pitted against the ZR2’s base engine, while it pushes that power through a six-speed manual (there’s no manual offered with the ZR2) or an eight-speed auto, plus part-time 4WD, and is rated between 10.4 and 14.1 L/100km city/highway combined depending on trims; whereas the Tacoma TRD Pro comes standard with Toyota’s well-seasoned 3.5-litre V6 capable of 276 hp and 265 lb-ft of torque, which is 32 hp and 10 lb-ft less capable than the ZR2’s V6. It comes mated to a six-speed manual or a six-speed auto plus part-time 4WD, and achieves a city/highway combined fuel economy rating that ranges between 11.9 and 12.9 L/100km depending on transmissions and cab configurations. 

2019 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2
A black power dome adds more aggression to the ZR2’s hood. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann)

Of course, all V6 engines outpace the Duramax turbo-diesel’s 181 horsepower by a considerable margin, which is immediately noticeable on the road when testing Colorado models back-to-back, but its 109, 104 and 94 lb-ft torque advantage over the Gladiator, Tacoma and Chevy’s own ZR2 V6 respectively, makes the diesel optimal off-road, and of course its 11.7 combined fuel-efficiency advantage can only be beaten by one Gladiator trim (and I’d be surprised to see the FCA V6 win in a real-world comparo). 

There are other important factors that come into play when off-roading, ground clearance, front and rear overhangs, and wheelbase being paramount. The Tacoma offers up the shortest wheelbase at 3,236 mm (127.4 in), yet its 5,392 mm (212.3 in) overall length means that its overhangs are more exaggerated, which means it will be less prone to get hung up when going over an obstacle, but more likely to drag its front or rear bumper when climbing up or down a steep grade. The Colorado bridges the gap with a relatively short wheelbase at 3,258 mm (128.3 in), and the shortest overall length at 5,347 mm (210.5 in), while the Gladiator has a surprisingly long wheelbase at 3,487 mm (137.3 in) and stretches a full 5,537 mm (218.0 in) from nose to tail. 

2019 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2
The oil burner gets a “DURAMAX DIESEL” insignia along each side of its power dome. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann)

Full disclosure: of the three trucks covered in this review, I’ve only tested the ZR2 and an older 2017 Tacoma TRD Pro (it now includes the aforementioned snorkel and a few other upgrades). As also noted, I spent a week in a 2018 ZR2 with the Duramax Turbo-Diesel, and a week in a 2019 version with the V6, mostly on pavement in town and in suburban, rural areas, but also getting dirty in mud and muck with both, and deep into hood-high water most recently with the latter. I 4x4ed the Taco and it performed well, but considering how far back that was I’d rather spend time with an updated version before commenting. 

2019 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2
Abbreviated bumpers, fender flares and skid plates make for a purposeful looking 4×4. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann)

As for the Gladiator, which I hope to get into this summer, it boasts a disconnecting front sway bar (something first seen with the Ram Power Wagon and now also found in the Rebel), plus a Wrangler-sourced solid front axle that’s preferred over the ZR2’s (and most every other modern pickups’) independent front suspension by most 4×4 purists. Again, I’ll defer comment to a future test. 

Like the initial 2017 Colorado ZR2 and the grey-green 2018 turbo-diesel version shown in this review, the latest 2019 model gets a substantial boost in ride height and therefore ground clearance that’s up by 50 mm (2.0 inches), while any negatives to high-speed handling are offset by a 90-mm (3.5-inch) increase in front and rear track, new stiffer cast-iron lower front control arms, and special 8- by 17-inch alloy wheels cushioned by 31-inch Goodyear Duratrac off-road rubber. Additionally, a new 1.0-inch-diameter solid anti-roll bar replaces the usual 1.5-inch hollow one, which improves suspension articulation, while leaving the best for last are special Multimatic DSSV Position Sensitive Spool Valve Damping Performance shocks designed for cushioning the otherwise jarring impacts of rocks, roots and other obstacles you might find along an ungraded back road or trail (incidentally, the TRD Pro uses Fox-sourced shocks, which are also highly recommended). 

2019 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2
Here’s a closer look at the ZR2’s standard 17-inch alloys. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann)

Easier to see are skid plates below and tubular rocker extensions at each side, both designed to protect vulnerable components and bodywork, but the ZR2 is even more noticeable to passersby thanks to its all-business matte black grille and even beefier black hood dome that serve no purpose but looking good, rugged black bumpers that get chopped down a couple of notches to improve approach and departure angles, and more muscular black fender flares that make way for those just-noted meaty tires. 

2019 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2
Peek behind the wheels and you can see the bright yellow Multimatic shocks. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann)

I took both ZR2s to a local 4×4 playground I use often, only about five minutes from my home. It gave me good opportunity to test it out on some trails that are nowhere near as tough as this truck is, but still fairly intimidating without a spotting crew to guide me through. During the first mostly dry run I was able to hang the rear-mounted spare tire up on a couple of grassy knolls while exiting deep ruts, and also scaled some steep grades, bounced through some oscillating ruts and bumps that left tires hanging in midair, but more so proved that its suspension is firm enough for stability yet plenty absorbent for comfort. 

It was the rainy and muddy during the second mid-winter stint at the same location, which made for more fun, those steep grades now requiring me to lock both front and rear differentials (just like the Gladiator can, but alas not so with the Tacoma that only offers a rear locker) to scale with ease, no doubt helped by its grippy Goodyear Wrangler all-terrain rubber. A 50-foot puddle caught me a bit by surprise when the front end slipped into some deep ruts and the dirty water rushed over the hood and onto the windshield, my tired old heart racing for a moment as I kept a steady foot on the throttle, but the tires gripped and the ZR2 carried me confidently to the other side. The TRD Pro’s snorkel would’ve been comforting in such circumstances, but the ZR2 didn’t need it, at least this time around. 

2019 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2
Subtle decals denote the Colorado ZR2’s nomenclature. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann)

I’d like to try the ZR2 with the Bison package noted earlier, which only comes in Red Hot paint (I’d like it better if you could choose paint colours), gets a unique grille with “CHEVROLET” written across in block letters (not unlike the Raptor’s bold “FORD” emblazoned grille), special AEV (American Expedition Vehicles) front and rear bumpers (the one up front capable of accepting a winch), beefy black extended fender flares, unique 17-inch AEV alloy wheels, fog lamps, contoured front and rear floor liners, and about 90 kilos (200 lbs) of ultra-strong boron steel AEV skid plates (front, transfer case, fuel tank, and rear differential) to better protect its vitals, all for $6,980. 

2019 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2
The Colorado’s interior is roomy and comfortable. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann)

Still, the regular ZR2 is plenty capable all on its own, and quite impressive from a styling standpoint. I find the regular Colorado a bit tame looking compared to most rivals, particularly the new Gladiator and Tacoma, but the ZR2’s bulging domed matte black louvered hood, redesigned matte black front bumpers and rear bumpers, exposed skid plates, robust tubular rocker protectors, and other trim upgrades make it look a lot tougher. Peer behind the machine-finished 17-inch alloys with black-painted pockets and you can just see the yellow Multimatic shocks, unless they’re covered in mud. 

Unfortunately, no side steps help shorter than average folks like me climb up inside, and there aren’t any Corner Steps on the back bumper to aid access to the bed either, the only complaints I have, but it looks fabulous and these special bumpers serve the truck’s pure off-road purpose very well. 

2019 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2
The driver’s cockpit is nicely organized and finished to a higher level than you might expect. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann)

Once up in the comfortable albeit rudimentarily powered driver’s seat, enjoying a view allowed by especially good sightlines in every direction, the V6 is by far the engine to choose if fuel economy isn’t as important as accelerative performance. It jumps off the line and keeps up the pace right past legal highway speeds, whereas the diesel is just as motivated from standstill initially, yet doesn’t maintain the same level of enthusiasm as revs rise. That’s ok for diesel fans like me, because it feels like a work truck capably going about its business, and it pays dividends at the pump, as noted earlier, but those who want more of a sport truck will appreciate the V6. 

Fortunately the Colorado ZR2 handles just as well no matter the engine choice. Even with its jacked-up suspension, or possibly because of it, the ride is reasonably smooth and comfortable, unless going over curbs. Those slightly more rigid Multimatic shocks that work so well off-road help reduce body roll at higher speeds on pavement too, so therefore the ZR2 is surprisingly agile through twisting fast-paced corners, unless trying to go faster than anything so top-heavy and obviously 4×4-focused was designed to go. Braking is decent too, but once again don’t be silly. The ZR2 hits the scales at 1,987 kilos (4,381 lbs), and more when upgraded with the aforementioned Bison package, so keep this in consideration when judging stopping distances. 

2019 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2
The well organized gauge cluster is easy to read in any light. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann)

I only pushed it hard for testing purposes, and no matter what surfaces I drove over or speeds I attained, those comfortable seats noted earlier always adequately supported me. I especially appreciated the lateral support provided by large side bolsters, which stopped me sliding sideways on what could have otherwise been slippery leather upholstery. It was dyed in the usual black shade, by the way, but highlighted with a red embroidered “2” as part of the otherwise black “ZR2” insignia on the headrests. The ZR2 steering wheel gets no such name recognition, but it’s leather as well, and made of a particular soft and comfortable variety, with nice baseball-style stitching for enhancing grip. I’d call it more of a sport steering wheel than the usual truck type, as it could just as easily be found in a performance car despite featuring four spokes, and thanks to a standard tilt and telescoping steering column with excellent reach, the overall ZR2’s overall ergonomics are excellent. This means I was able to sit upright, comfortably, with the steering wheel perfectly positioned for my long-legged, short torso, five-foot-eight, slight-build body type, safely and comfortably with my hands at the optimal nine and three positions, further allowing excellent reach to the pedals and great visibility all around. 

2019 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2
Almost all Colorado trims get this 8.0-inch touchscreen for 2019, and it’s an especially good system. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann)

Likewise, the rear seat of this Crew Cab, short box (the ZR2 is also available in the Extended Cab, long box configuration) provides good roominess for adults (or kids) of all sizes. When the front seat was set up for my just noted body, I still had about five inches ahead of my knees and plenty of space for my feet, plus another three to four inches above my head, and five inches from my shoulders and hips to the door panel, plus I’d estimate there was still room enough for a smaller person in the middle. When three’s a crowd in back, you can pull down a wide, comfortable centre armrest filled with large cupholders that include rubber grips to fasten cups or bottles in place. Other nice features in the rear compartment include twin USB ports and a 12-volt device charger. 

2019 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2
The HD centre display includes a standard HD backup camera with active guidelines. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann)

If a need to keep your gear dry and safe from theft arises, the rear seat headrests flip forward and backrests fold flat so you can lay what-have-you on top, or alternatively you can lift the seat cushion upwards to expose a hidden compartment below, this including all the tools you might need for lowering the spare tire and then removing the flat before bolting on said spare. 

To be clear, seats and leatherette armrests aside, Chevy doesn’t include any fancy soft-touch surface treatments in back, but up front the dash top gets nice soft paint to help absorb some of the sound and make it more appealing to fingertips, as does the instrument panel. I should also point out this isn’t the fanciest version of Chevy’s Colorado, because it’s optimized for off-road, but it’s certainly good enough for this class of truck. Chevy has included some nice metallic trim around the centre stack and lower console, as well as the door handles and armrests. The inner door handles are chromed, as are the insides of some of the rotating knobs on the centre stack. 

2019 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2
This row of toggles includes the two switches for selecting front and rear differential locks. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann)

A highly legible primary gauge cluster is shielded well from sunlight and filled with the usual tachometer on the left and speedometer to the right. Fuel and temp meters fill the top centre position, while just below is a reasonably sized 4.2-inch high-resolution colour multi-information display that provides ample information for the class. You can control it via an arrow button pad on the right steering wheel spoke, which pulls up a bright menu of multicoloured functions including info, audio, phone, navigation, options, and more, while the navigation feature provides directions within the gauge cluster where they’re easier to see without removing eyes from the road as often, with the detailed mapping coming up on the large 8.0-inch infotainment touchscreen atop the centre stack (this larger display is now standard in all Colorado trims except for the base WT or Work Truck that still does pretty well with a new 7.0-inch touchscreen). 

2019 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2
Spacious, comfortable leather-clad seats come standard with the ZR2. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann)

That touchscreen comes standard with Chevy’s nicely laid-out, bright, and colourful HD menu display that appears inspired by Apple’s iPhone, which is a good thing, while it can be made to look even more iPad like by hooking up standard Apple CarPlay, or alternatively Android Auto that doesn’t look anywhere near was nice. At least Chevy gives you these smartphone connectivity alternatives, while it also features an audio system that’s easy to connect up to your phone via Bluetooth wireless streaming, plus you also have the option of satellite radio, and all the usual AM/FM/HD sources. 

I found the navigation system very accurate and associated mapping incredibly detailed and easy to figure out. My only problem were directions that told me when to turn, such as 50 metres or 150 metres from the point I was at, were a tad too small to see and only monochromatic, not colour. I would rather have them pop up larger on the screen in a more visible colour while saying something like “In 50 meters turn right”. The infotainment system also received text messages and provided some stock responses so that I could communicate that I was driving and would contact later. Other apps include OnStar, traffic info, even one for shopping, which I don’t recommend while driving. 

2019 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2
The rear seating compartment is accommodating. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann)

Along with navigation and an excellent HD backup camera with dynamic guidelines (albeit not one as 4×4-friendly as the Gladiator’s, which sports front and rear trail cams that can even be cleaned via the touchscreen), plus some of the other features already mentioned, this truck comes with a device charging pad positioned just ahead of the centre armrest (standard with Z71 trim and above), plus a USB port inside the armrest if your phone needs a wire. Chevy provides two more USB ports (one for the new USB C-type charger) as well as an aux port and an available SD card reader within another storage bin just under the centre stack, so you and your devices should be well taken care of. Lastly, the Colorado gets a second microphone mounted closer to the front passenger to improve Bluetooth hands-free voice quality, while I personally really appreciated the ZR2’s heatable steering wheel rim during some cold mornings, this now standard on all trims above the LT. 

2019 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2
Lowering the seatbacks creates a flat loading surface for your gear. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann)

On that note, standard ZR2 features include GM’s excellent heatable front seats, which not only warm the lower cushion and backrest, but can be set to only heat the latter, which works well for those of us with lower back problems that just want a little temporary relief. On that note, this truck gets single-zone auto HVAC, not the usual dual-zone setup offered by the top-line Tacoma and Gladiator. I think most can live with that shortcoming, while this particular model also doesn’t include pushbutton start or proximity-sensing access. It didn’t have a sunroof either, which might be a bone of contention for those choosing the Jeep for its removable roof, but I couldn’t care less as it’s not something I normally use. The only kind of sunroof I really like are the big panoramic ones anyway, so I say if you’re not going to go all the way, don’t bother at all. I like the padded sunglasses holder in the overhead console, and the reading lights are fine, but take note they’re not LEDs. On the positive, the rearview mirror is an auto-dimming unit, and along with OnStar it features a button for voice activation as well as an SOS telematics button that lets you call for help if needed. 

2019 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2
Lifting up the lower rear seat squab reveals a handy stowage area. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann)

A row of toggles can be found on the centre stack, including stability control off, a bed light, hill descent control, an exhaust brake that’s helpful when trailering, a hazard light, and finally two individual switches for the separate front and rear differential locks mentioned earlier. 

Having just mentioned trailering, the ZR2’s towing capacity is rated at 2,268 kilos (5,000 lbs) no matter the engine, while its payload is 500 kilograms (1,100 lbs) with the four-door short-bed or 528 kg (1,164 lbs) with the extended-cab long-bed, while the Taco TRD Pro is good for a 2,900-kg (6,400-lb) tow rating and a payload of 454 kg (1,000 lbs), and the Gladiator in its most ZR2-fighting Rubicon trim can tow up to 2,040 kg (4,500 lbs) and manage of payload of up to 544 kg (1,200 lbs) with the manual, or tow 3,175 kg (7,000 lbs) of trailer and carry 526 kg (1,160 lbs) on its back with the auto. 

2019 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2
Nicely finished bed provides plenty of hauling capability, but there are no steps to get inside. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann)

I won’t bore you with all the ZR2’s comfort and convenience features, which are readily available on Chevy’s retail website or at CarCostCanada where I sourced all the 2019 Colorado’s pricing information including trims, packages and standalone options, not to mention money-saving rebate info and dealer invoice pricing, but suffice to say it’s very well equipped from just $46,100 for the Extra Cab or $47,600 for the Crew Cab, plus freight and fees of course. 

So which Colorado ZR2 powertrain would I rather have? Being that I keep my vehicles for longer than average, I’d likely opt for the Duramax turbo-diesel, as the extra initial expense would more than likely be recouped by lower running costs over time. I’d also be tempted to spend more for the optional Bison package, because the key reason for stepping up to this truck is its 4×4 prowess, so further protecting vital components underneath only makes sense. I’d also spring for an aftermarket snorkel, if only because it looks so good. Other than that, this Colorado ZR2 is the Raptor for mid-size truck buyers, at least until Ford brings its Ranger Raptor to North American markets.

Thanks to General Motors, the mid-size pickup truck market is once again starting to heat up. Toyota was hardly contested in this market for far too long, but GM reintroduced its Chevrolet Colorado and…

2018 GMC Canyon 4WD Crew Cab SLE All Terrain Road Test

2018 GMC Canyon 4WD Crew Cab SLE All Terrain
GMC’s Canyon offers up a striking design, especially when upgraded to sporty 4WD Crew Cab SLE All Terrain trim. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

Thanks to General Motors, the mid-size pickup truck market is once again starting to heat up. Toyota was hardly contested in this market for far too long, but GM reintroduced its Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon twins in 2015 and has steadily been gaining back market share ever since. 

In fact, after just a year of availability the two trucks combined for 12,652 sales, and by so doing snuck right past the Tacoma’s 12,618. That gap widened in 2017 with 14,320 GM mid-size truck deliveries and just 12,454 for Toyota, while as of September 30 this year the General managed to sell 12,702 Colorados and Canyons compared to Toyota’s tally of 10,703 Tacomas, so as long as the final quarter of 2018 follows suit it should be another banner year for these two domestic pickups. 

2018 GMC Canyon 4WD Crew Cab SLE All Terrain
The Canyon’s good looks wrap right around the entire truck. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

Just in case you forgot (as most people did), Honda and Nissan sell trucks in this segment too. Still, despite an impressive second-generation Ridgeline the motorcycle company that initially started out selling a pickup truck was only able to lure in 3,169 new buyers over the same nine months of 2018, while Nissan, one of the originators of the compact pickup category, could only rally 3,071 of its faithful troops around its Frontier. 

Nissan hasn’t redesigned its Frontier pickup in so long it should be facing child abandonment charges, but the segment’s previous shabby chic offering, Ford’s Ranger, will soon be with us again, albeit much larger, thoroughly modernized and no doubt capable of taking on the top three. What’s more, FCA, the parent company of the Dodge brand that gave up on the Dakota, finally showed the new Wrangler-based Gladiator in production trim at the LA auto show, so this warming small truck market might soon be boiling over. 

2018 GMC Canyon 4WD Crew Cab SLE All Terrain
These complex headlight clusters add a touch of sophistication to the Canyon’s form and function. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

Again, we can thank GM for sticking its neck out with the Colorado and Canyon, because if it weren’t for these two the others wouldn’t have had verified proof that mid-size trucks were still worth investing in, only that buyers were waiting for some decent product to arrive. 

Decent is an understatement with respect to the Colorado and Canyon, mind you. Just look at this GMC Canyon in its 4WD Crew Cab SLE All Terrain setup. I think its design is fabulous, and I always enjoy spending time behind the wheel, especially when its class-exclusive turbo-diesel four-cylinder powerplant is powering all four wheels. Honestly, this is the type of engine Toyota should be putting into its Tacoma, not to mention Ford and Nissan whenever replacements to their pickups arrive. 

2018 GMC Canyon 4WD Crew Cab SLE All Terrain
Satin-silver trim, fog lamps and sharp looking alloy wheels make this mid-range pickup look like top-of-the-line. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

I spend a lot of time in and around Metro Manila, Philippines, my second home (Antipolo City to be exact), and have witnessed all the diesel trucks on offer. The Ford Ranger mentioned earlier is easily one of the best looking pickups there or anywhere, also diesel powered, whereas the Asian-spec Navara is the truck Nissan should’ve imported to North America along with its fuel-efficient turbo-diesel powerplant. The Philippine-market Toyota pickup is dubbed Hilux and diesel-powered as well, while Chevy also sells a diesel-powered Colorado in the Philippines, although the rebadged Isuzu D-Max isn’t even close to North America’s Colorado. 

Duramax Diesel power is the first reason I’d recommend our Canadian-spec Canyon or Colorado to truck buyers here, even over the Tacoma. Some Canadians might pretend that fuel economy isn’t as big an issue now as it was before the oil crash, but a quick study of our current economic situation will show that it’s even more important to find economical transportation now than it was then, especially in a smaller, less-expensive pickup class that’s likely being purchased for financial reasons first and foremost. 

2018 GMC Canyon 4WD Crew Cab SLE All Terrain
These rugged side steps provide a helpful leg up as well as protection to the lower body panels. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

Only this past summer regular 97 octane rose to more than $1.60 per litre in my part of the country, and even our current $1.30 to $1.40 per litre range isn’t exactly cheap. In fact, our new low is considerably higher than just before the bottom fell out of big oil. What’s more, the majority of Canadians should be well aware how these low oil prices hit our collective Canadian gross domestic product (GDP) bottom line, not to mention the wallets of many Canadians’ personally, plenty which come from parts of the country where pickup trucks are a larger percentage of the market, such as Alberta, so it’s probably not a good time to be loose and easy with our fuel budgets. 

2018 GMC Canyon 4WD Crew Cab SLE All Terrain
The GMC Canyon separates itself from the Chevy Colorado by these unique taillights, amongst other exclusive styling details. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

As for where the Canyon and Colorado fit within the overall scheme of things, let’s face the fact that most truck buyers would rather own a full-size Sierra or Silverado than anything mid-size. Bigger trucks deliver more space, comfort, performance and functionality, albeit at a higher price. This need to target entry-level pickup buyers is exactly why the smaller Colorado and Canyon exist, but before I go on let’s make sure we’re both perfectly clear about why these two trucks are succeeding in a market segment where others have failed miserably: they’re sensational. 

I can’t speak for anyone else, but as noted a moment ago I happen to think both trucks look great. I’m a bit more partial to the Canyon than the Colorado, unless the latter is upgraded to new ZR2 off-road race truck spec. Interestingly, styling matters at least as much amongst pickup truck owners as sports car zealots, buyers in this most utile of auto sectors wooed by rugged designs that appear like they could trek across seemingly impassable terrain as if they were domesticated equivalents of an M1A2 Abrams tank, or in the case of this smaller pickup something along the lines of the now-discontinued M551 Sheridan. 

2018 GMC Canyon 4WD Crew Cab SLE All Terrain
The Canyon provides an attractive, high-quality interior with room for up to five. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

Adding an oil-burning variant only ups their go-anywhere character, the 2.8-litre Duramax turbo-diesel under my 2018 Canyon 4WD Crew Cab SLE All Terrain tester’s sculpted hood capable of a stump-pulling 369 lb-ft of torque from just 2,000 rpm, not to mention a very efficient 12.1 L/100km in the city, 8.3 on the highway and 10.4 combined when configured for 4WD, or an even more impressive 10.8 city, 8.0 highway and 9.6 combined with RWD. By the way, it makes 181 horsepower at 3,400 rpm too, but that number isn’t quite as important in pickup truck circles, where useable towing twist is king for some and the ability to delve deeper into the wilderness on a single tank of fuel reigns supreme for others. 

2018 GMC Canyon 4WD Crew Cab SLE All Terrain
This nicely laid out cabin provides excellent driver ergonomics. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

The Canyon’s tow rating ranges from 2,449 to 2,812 kg kilos (5,400 to 6,200 lbs), while diesel models are equipped with an exhaust brake and an integrated trailer brake controller. Additionally, SLE trim gets trailering assist guidelines added to the otherwise standard backup camera, plus a Tow/Haul mode that raises transmission upshift points for more power when needed, and also raises downshift points so you can use the engine for compression braking. What’s more, an optional Trailering Package adds an automatic locking rear differential, a 50.8-mm receiver hitch, four- and seven-pin connectors, a seven-wire harness with independent fused trailering circuits, a seven-way sealed connector to hook up parking lamps, backup lamps, right and left turn signals, an electric brake lead, a battery and a ground.

2018 GMC Canyon 4WD Crew Cab SLE All Terrain
The 4.2-inch colour TFT multi-info display at centre has crystal clear resolution. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

All of that aforementioned torque sounds like it should make for blistering performance off the line, and while the diesel-powered Canyon 4×4 initially jumps forward with enthusiasm it’s not capable of spine tingling acceleration after that. Still, it’s hardly embarrassing on a highway onramp, moves fast enough to get you into trouble in the city or on the highway if you’re not paying attention, and is more than capable of passing motorhomes and big highway trucks when required. The diesel’s standard six-speed automatic downshifts quickly and is plenty smooth as well, but it could use with another gear or two on its way up to higher speeds. 

When off-road, shifting into 4WD high or low is as easy as possible, only taking the twist of a rotating knob next to the driver’s left knee. It’s a fully automated system, not forcing you to get out and lock the hubs, of course, but also not requiring a secondary lever to engage its low gear set, while crawling over rough terrain is this little truck’s forte. 

2018 GMC Canyon 4WD Crew Cab SLE All Terrain
The infotainment interface’s iPhone-influenced candy drop buttons are wonderfully colourful and easy to see in any light. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

As you might expect by looking at its beefy suspension, my tester’s ride was firm when rock crawling as well as when bouncing down inner-city lanes, but it was hardly punishing. A larger truck like the Sierra offers more compliance due to its heavier weight, but certainly this smaller 4×4 was pleasant enough. Likewise, handling and high-speed stability is good for the class, with the Canyon fully capable when the road starts to wind and an enjoyable highway cruiser, but once again the larger Sierra delivers more in this respect. 

The Canyon’s leisurely pace makes it all the easier to enjoy its impressive cabin, and it really is quantum leap above anything GM offered in this class before, and even a step above most competitors. SLE trim offers a mix of premium-level soft-touch surfaces and harder plastics, the latter common in pickup trucks, while the softer detailing includes an upscale padded leatherette with red stitching covering the left and right sides of the dash top as well as much of the instrument panel, whereas the lower dash and door panels are made from the more durable hard stuff. 

2018 GMC Canyon 4WD Crew Cab SLE All Terrain
The 6-speed standard automatic with the base 2.5L four and the 2.8L turbo-diesel isn’t as advanced as the 8-speed that comes with the 3.6L V6. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

Ahead of the driver, a digital and analogue gauge cluster features a fairly large 4.2-inch full-colour TFT multi-information display at centre that’s filled with useful features and superb graphics, while over on the centre stack is GMC’s new IntelliLink infotainment interface, which has become one of the best in the mainstream volume sector. It’s upgraded to the Canyon’s larger 8.0-inch touchscreen in SLE trim, and is easy to operate thanks to nice big ovoid Apple iPhone-style candy drop buttons in various bright colours and the ability to use tablet-style tap, pinch and swipe finger gestures. 

This test truck didn’t include optional navigation with detailed mapping, but GMC includes the very useful OnStar turn-by-turn route guidance system, while the SLE’s infotainment interface was also loaded up with standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone connectivity (although these are even included on the base model’s now larger 7.0-inch infotainment display this year), a decent audio system featuring satellite radio and Bluetooth streaming (a Bose system is optional), text messaging, and of course plenty of car settings. Some buttons below the touchscreen allow quick access to radio, media and audio functions, plus the home screen, while a nicely sorted single-zone automatic climate control interface is set up in the old school button and knob style just below. 

2018 GMC Canyon 4WD Crew Cab SLE All Terrain
The front seats look great and provide excellent comfort with good lower back support. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

On that note, switchgear for GM’s excellent heatable seats can be found just under the HVAC system on a separate interface, these being especially good because they allow the ability to heat both lower and backrest cushions separately, or just the backrest alone, while just above these is a row of toggle switches for trailering, turning off the stability control, the bed light, hill descent control, and the hazard lights. 

A traditional lever gets used for shifting gears, with a plus/minus rocker switch on the knob for rowing through the cogs manually with your thumb. This means no paddle shifters are included, which is the case for most pickup trucks, but the steering wheel is nevertheless a nice sporty design with leather around the rim and more red stitching, while the switchgear on each spoke is very nice with rubberized buttons. The column is tilt and telescopic as well, whereas the seats are powered with fore/aft, up/down, and two-way powered lumbar support adjustments. Only the backrest needs manual actuation, which didn’t make one difference to me over my weeklong test. 

2018 GMC Canyon 4WD Crew Cab SLE All Terrain
Other than seatbacks that are a bit too upright, only really tall folks will complain about being seated in back. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

The upgraded upholstery features both smooth and textured leatherette around the edges with a comfortable cloth in the centre, plus “ALL TERRAIN” combined with a mountain graphic stamped on the backrests. Considering SLE is hardly top of the line, it’s all pretty impressive. 

The rear bench seat gets the same styling high-level treatment, and the outboard positions are quite comfortable other than having somewhat upright backrests due to space limitations. When the driver’s seat was set for my five-foot-eight frame I had about five inches available ahead of my knees when seated behind, so limousine-like wouldn’t be the term I’d use to describe the Canyon Crew Cab’s roominess, but most should still find it spacious enough, especially for this class. 

2018 GMC Canyon 4WD Crew Cab SLE All Terrain
The rear bench seat’s backrest folds flat to provide a good cargo hold. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

The rear seatback can also be flattened for a handy load surface, or alternatively you can pull up the lower bench for stowing taller cargo you might want to keep out of the bed behind to protect from weather or theft, while lifting the seat also allows access to things stored underneath. I only wish GM had split the seat 60/40 for more passenger/cargo flexibility, but it’s hardly a deal-killer. 

A deal-maker, and perhaps a pickup truck game-changer that I absolutely must highlight, is the CornerStep-infused rear bumper, an intelligent design that adds handy toe cutouts to the corners of the back bumper to ease smaller statured and/or maturing folk up onto the cargo bed with more grace and less potential bodily harm, the latter especially relevant when wet weather transforms the otherwise tiny rounded nubs at each corner of every competitive truck’s rear bumper into a slippery accident waiting to happen. I love these, and really appreciated how easy this makes it for climbing onto the bed when the tailgate is lowered. 

2018 GMC Canyon 4WD Crew Cab SLE All Terrain
These rear bumper-integrated CornerSteps come standard, and truly make access to the bed easy. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

Now that I’m talking features I’m realizing that I’ve neglected to go into detail regarding my tester’s standard kit, so over and above the equipment I’ve already mentioned my diesel-powered Canyon 4WD Crew Cab SLE All Terrain was nicely outfitted with 17-inch alloys, a Z71 off-road suspension, skid plates, body-colour bumpers, side steps, remote start, four USB ports, OnStar 4G LTE and Wi-Fi, a sliding rear window, a tow package, and more for an as-tested price of $47,988 plus freight and fees. Of note, the base Canyon starts at just $23,310, but you can spend considerably more than my tester’s nicely equipped tally for a fully loaded version, especially if venturing into top-line Denali trim (to see all 2018 GMC Canyon trims, packages and options, plus rebate info and dealer invoice pricing that could save you thousands, visit CarCostCanada now). 

2018 GMC Canyon 4WD Crew Cab SLE All Terrain
The Canyon can manage heavy payloads and even heftier trailers. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

There’s a lot more I could say, but maybe it’s best to leave something special for you to personally discover. The Canyon is an impressive truck, and totally worthy of all the attention it’s getting from its ever increasing fan base. I recommend the turbo-diesel, but the base Canyon comes with what on paper seems like a reasonably strong 200 horsepower 2.5-litre four-cylinder and six-speed automatic combo, while upper trims can be had with a formidable 308 horsepower 3.6-litre V6 mated to an advanced eight-speed automatic. I’ve tested the latter and really enjoyed the extra power and smooth shifting gearbox, but in the end you’ll need to figure out which powertrain, transmission, driveline setup, body style and trim level you need for yourself, because GMC offers myriad options. This ability to fully personalize your ride really sets the Canyon, and its Colorado sibling apart from any rival, its three distinct engine options at the heart and core of this philosophy. More really is better, and GMC offers the most. Enough said.

Nissan makes one of the more stylish, technologically advanced, and all around modern mid-size pickup trucks in the world, they just don’t bring it here. The Navara, sold in Asia, Europe, and other…

2018 Nissan Frontier Crew Cab Midnight Edition Road Test

2018 Nissan Frontier Crew Cab Midnight Edition
Midnight Edition styling adds a fresh new take on a well-known Frontier design. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

Nissan makes one of the more stylish, technologically advanced, and all around modern mid-size pickup trucks in the world, they just don’t bring it here.

The Navara, sold in Asia, Europe, and other global markets, is now in the third year of its third generation, and it still looks fresh and new. It’s so good, in fact, that it’s the basis for the new Mercedes-Benz X-Class, a luxury truck with no direct rival.

In sharp contrast the North American market soldiers on with Nissan’s particularly well-seasoned Frontier, introduced a baker’s dozen or so years ago in 2005. While still competent, a claim I’ll attempt to prove as this review unfolds, sales haven’t grown as quickly as its competitors.

2018 Nissan Frontier Crew Cab Midnight Edition
This black on white Midnight Edition makes a sporty statement. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

Yes, despite very little in the way of upgrades since inception, the Frontier continues to find favour with plenty of Canadians, its 2017 grand total of 4,260 deliveries actually resulting in its strongest-ever calendar year. That represents a 3.2-percent gain from last year, but more significantly 43.7 percent growth over the past five years and a 97-percent increase since the year before the great recession, 2007 (using depressed 2008 sales numbers would unrealistically skew results).

2018 Nissan Frontier Crew Cab Midnight Edition
Without HIDs, let alone LEDs, the Frontier is a back-to-basics pickup truck that nevertheless drives good value. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

How have others fared? GM, which reentered the market after a short hiatus, is now the clear leader amongst mid-size pickup truck purveyors with 14,320 Chevrolet/GMC Colorado/Canyon sales in 2017 (8,060/6,260), this representing 426.8 percent growth since 2012, the final full year of the previous generation’s availability, while sales growth since 2007 has been a more modest 29.5 percent. Toyota, which sold 12,454 Tacomas last year for a slight dip of 1.3 percent from the year prior, was the segment’s dominant sales leader up until 2015. Still, the Texan-made trucklet experienced growth of 19.7 percent within the past five years, and 31.4 percent over the decade.

2018 Nissan Frontier Crew Cab Midnight Edition
Tiny fog lamps and big black alloys add to the go-anywhere look. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

The Honda Ridgeline, which was the only mid-size truck to suffer slower sales than the Frontier last year, despite its completely overhauled second-generation being the newest vehicle in the segment, grew by 76.6 percent to 4,632 units year-over-year, while its five-year gain was 118.3 percent. Even with the update, the Ridgeline’s 2017 sales weren’t able to surpass the previous generation’s first full-year high of 4,988 deliveries, while its sales growth since 2007 is just 2.5 percent.

2018 Nissan Frontier Crew Cab Midnight Edition
Rugged design details help the Frontier stand out. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

Despite their similar 2017 sales numbers the differences between the Frontier and Ridgeline are night and day, especially when factoring in heritage. Nissan has sold compact trucks since the market segment was conceived, my family having owned multiple Datsun branded 620 series models through my formative years (I’ll always cherish the many wonderful memories spent with my dad in our light blue ’78), while the original Datsun Truck arrived on North American soil in 1958, that 220 series truck solely responsible for establishing the Japanese brand on this side of the Pacific, but take note that its own domestic market benefited from a Datsun pickup in its ranks since 1938. To be fair I should mention that Honda brought a pickup to market in 1963, but it was never sold here and therefore the brand wasn’t able to establish a faithful truck following until the Ridgeline arrived in 2005.

2018 Nissan Frontier Crew Cab Midnight Edition
These 18-inch rims are exclusive to the Midnight Edition. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

Loyalty is a critical ingredient to success in the truck sector, making it difficult to fathom why both Ford and Dodge (now Ram) abandoned their long-established small truck following six and seven years ago respectively. The former will soon reenter our market with the Ford Australia designed and engineered Ranger, which is currently a best-seller in many Asian markets as well as Europe, so competition within the mid-size truck segment will certainly heat up in coming years.

2018 Nissan Frontier Crew Cab Midnight Edition
The Midnight Edition is based on SV V6 4×4 trim. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

While it would be easy to needle Nissan about its obvious lack of investment in this class, we can simultaneously commend them for sticking it out while others have left. What’s more, a sizeable number of Canadians regularly choose to spend their hard earned money on new Frontiers, so the current model clearly has proven appeal. To back this point up yet further, combined January and February year-over-year sales were up an additional 33.1 percent from 2017 to 2018.

The fact is, the Frontier was far ahead of its time when introduced in 2005, allowing it to age well. Certainly, when put next to any of its more modern rivals the Nissan looks a bit dated from the outside and probably more so inside, but unless we start directly comparing their top-line trims it’s not as if the newer models are pampering palaces of luxury in entry-level guise.

2018 Nissan Frontier Crew Cab Midnight Edition
Those black dots on the rear bumper are very helpful parking sensors. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

Let’s face it. We’re talking trucks here, not luxury cars. In fact, you can get into a base 2018 Frontier for just $23,998, plus freight and fees. Before any hate mail from GM zealots starts flooding in, I realize a base Colorado starts at only $22,610 and the Canyon for $23,410, which no doubt has helped propel them up the sales charts. By comparison, the Tacoma begins life at $30,900, whereas the Ridgeline is a rarified luxury truck due to a base price of $37,290, which gives me new respect for the other two Japanese models’ sales numbers.

2018 Nissan Frontier Crew Cab Midnight Edition
The light grey interior is a welcome change to the mid-size truck segment’s usual black. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

The unibody Ridgeline warrants its loftier base price in refinement alone, its cabin mostly pulled directly over from the near-luxury Pilot SUV. The rest of the segment is comprised of traditional body-on-frame pickup trucks, so even though the Frontier is still filled with durable hard plastic surfaces instead of soft, pliable leather-like synthetics, none of the others are either, at least at the lower end.

On that note, I’m going to guess that none of these trucks sell best in their most humble trims, the 2018 Frontier available in King Cab S, $25,548 King Cab SV, and $31,748 King Cab PRO-4X, while the Crew Cab SV starts at $32,498, my tester’s new for 2018 Crew Cab Midnight Edition trim at $35,398, the Crew Cab PRO-4X at $36,798, and top-tier Crew Cab SL at $38,898.

2018 Nissan Frontier Crew Cab Midnight Edition
The Frontier’s interior certainly shows its age, but its classic interior styling was advanced when it debuted in 2005. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

The base Frontier S comes similarly equipped to the rest of its truck-based alternatives, with key features including a direct-injected 2.5-litre DOHC, 16-valve, four-cylinder engine making 152 horsepower and 171 lb-ft of torque, a five-speed automatic transmission, rear-wheel drive, four-wheel disc brakes with ABS, an independent double-wishbone front suspension and leaf-spring, solid axle rear setup, 15-inch steel wheels, an extended King Cab and 1,861 mm (73.3 inch/6.1-foot) bed, a chrome grille, a partial body-colour front bumper and a full body-colour rear bumper, a locking tailgate, a cargo bed light, variable intermittent wipers, illuminated steering wheel-mounted audio controls, cruise control, air conditioning, a hands-free text messaging assistant, a RearView parking monitor (new in standard trim), Bluetooth phone connectivity with audio streaming, 5.0-inch colour display audio with AM, FM, CD, and satellite radio, speed-sensitive volume control, aux and USB ports, fabric seat upholstery, forward-facing rear flip-up seats, second-row under-seat storage, carpeted flooring, tire pressure monitoring, all the usual active and passive safety features, and more.

2018 Nissan Frontier Crew Cab Midnight Edition
The gauge cluster is simple and straightforward, which is just fine for a mid-size pickup truck. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

By comparison the GM twins offer more base power yet they charge extra for an automatic, albeit with one more forward gear, while their more modern entry-level interiors feature powered locks and windows, coloured multi-information displays (MID) within the gauge cluster, larger infotainment touchscreens, slightly better audio quality, powered driver’s seats, and unique rear bumper corner steps for ease of access to the bed. Likewise, the pricier Toyota features more power yet an optional auto with an additional forward gear, a colour MID, larger infotainment, heated front seats, and a host of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) such as auto high beams, adaptive cruise control, autonomous emergency braking with pedestrian detection, and lane departure alert.

2018 Nissan Frontier Crew Cab Midnight Edition
The infotainment display is small at 5 inches, and the backup camera doesn’t have dynamic guidelines. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

While the Frontier doesn’t include any of those ADAS features, loading one up with everything available, such as auto on/off headlights, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, navigation, voice recognition, 10-speaker Rockford Fosgate audio, powered seats, leather upholstery, illuminated vanity mirrors, a garage door opener, a powered moonroof, and more, plus some popular dealer-added accessories, can nudge it over the $40k threshold, but that’s still extremely affordable when comparing it to the fully featured Tacoma that hits the road at $47,625, or the optioned out Ridgeline at $57,605, maxed Canyon at $58,365, and ultimate Colorado at $59,740. Of course, it’s impossible to compare all of these trucks directly as they offer features not available with the Frontier SL.

2018 Nissan Frontier Crew Cab Midnight Edition
Shifting from 2WD to 4H or 4LO is as easy as twisting that big, black dial on the left. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

This mid-range Frontier Midnight Edition is more utilitarian than the SL, but I have to say it still looks good thanks to a design that’s stood the test of time, further dressed up with plenty of sporty gloss black trim in place of cheaper matte black or ritzier metal brightwork, plus fog lamps up front, black step rails and splash guards down each side, not to mention exclusive Midnight Edition blackened 18-inch alloys circled by 265/60 mud and snow all-seasons. All of this gear gets attached to the larger, more accommodating Crew Cab body, making for a handsomely rugged mid-size truck.

2018 Nissan Frontier Crew Cab Midnight Edition
The five-speed automatic might be down a gear or so, but it delivers smooth, quick shifts and decent economy. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

The Midnight Edition model’s key features include Nissan’s direct-injection 4.0-litre DOHC, 24-valve V6 making 261 horsepower and 281 lb-ft of torque, plus standard four-wheel drive with a switch-operated two-speed transfer case, hill descent control, hill start assist, a front tow hook, power door locks with auto-locking and remote access, powered windows, heated power-adjustable side mirrors, a sliding rear window, rear parking sensors, a factory-applied spray-on bedliner, Nissan’s Utili-track Channel System with four tie-down cleats, tilt steering (but no telescopic), micro-filtered dual-zone auto climate control, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, a digital compass, outside temperature display, vanity mirrors, heated front seats, two additional stereo speakers totaling six, and more.

2018 Nissan Frontier Crew Cab Midnight Edition
The front seats look good and provide plenty of comfort. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

The Midnight Edition doesn’t allow for any options packages, but you can get a sliding bed divider for $281 from the accessories catalogue, or a $350 sliding bed extender, $786 sliding toolbox, loads of trailering gear for 2,000-lb, 3,500-lb, 5,000-lb, or 6,500-lb towing capacity depending on trim, plus more.

The interior of my tester was finished in a light, soft grey, which was a pleasant change from the usual dark grey or all black attire of most trucks in this class, and while it’s a back-to-basics utility-first workhorse done in the spirit of days gone by, it’s nevertheless filled with nice design details like the artistically dimpled shroud over the primary instruments, uniquely rounded instrument panel to each side of the centre stack, and corrugated-style lower dash and glove box lid, not to mention some attractive brushed aluminum detailing on the steering wheel, down each side of the centre stack, and garnishing the gear selector. No one will mistake it for a luxury truck, but some bright chromed detailing of key components adds a smattering of bling, while the seat upholstery looked good.

2018 Nissan Frontier Crew Cab Midnight Edition
Rear seat roominess and comfort should be good enough for most peoples’ requirements. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

More importantly those seats were extremely comfortable, and despite not having the telescopic steering wheel noted earlier, driver ergonomics are pretty good. In fact, I enjoyed my test week more than expected, partially due to memories of my early years in the auto writing business when I first came across this model and the Xterra that followed (they shared interiors), but also because everything worked well enough, while providing all necessities with few frivolities.

2018 Nissan Frontier Crew Cab Midnight Edition
The rear cushions flip up and attach to the back wall, providing more room for cargo. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

The primary instruments are simple white-on-black dials with a rudimentary trip computer and graphic display for rear- or four-wheel drive engagement, while the small yet efficient colour infotainment touchscreen on the centre stack featured a simple backup camera sans dynamic guidelines, the usual audio functions, phone setup, vehicle settings, and little else.

The switchgear that surrounds it was all tightly fitted and well damped, while the dials and buttons that make up the dual-zone auto HVAC system were well executed. Nissan finishes off the centre stack with a big, meaty rotating dial for selecting 2WD, 4H and 4LO, plus a row of rocker switches for the two-way heated seats, stability control, and parking sonar.

2018 Nissan Frontier Crew Cab Midnight Edition
Nissan includes small bins for storage under the seats, but a flat folding load floor like the Titan offers would be more useful. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

Funny thing about transmissions, it’s difficult to notice the difference between a well-sorted five-speed autobox and a six-speed unit. The five-speed automatic in the Frontier shifted smoothly, kicking down to select a lower gear quickly when called upon and moving up through its gears without commotion as speeds increased. It basically goes about its duty without issue with the big V6 following suit, punching out solid power when needed, making a wonderful snarly exhaust note when revs climb, but otherwise comfortably loping along in its highest gear to save fuel, which is rated at 15.8 L/100km in the city, 11.5 on the highway and 13.9 combined as tested, with its best-possible efficiency of 13.6 city, 10.7 highway and 12.3 combined coming from the four-cylinder with its most basic five-speed manual gearbox.

2018 Nissan Frontier Crew Cab Midnight Edition
While a bit of a stretch to climb up on when the tailgate is lowered, the spray-on bed liner is plenty grippy. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

How does that compare to its peers? Both engines are thirstier than all of the mid-size trucks mentioned above, but just nominally. In other words, the amount of fuel the Toyota and Honda save will never make up for the initial savings provided by this Nissan, while the thriftiness allowed by the similarly priced base GM trucks inch them ahead in this respect.

Along with the V6 model’s strong straight-line performance, the Frontier also delivers a decent ride. Of course, generous suspension travel helps ease its way over bumps and through ruts or whatever else gets in its way, but lets not forget it’s a pretty beefy little truck with rugged off-road capability so we can’t expect it to be high on the pampering scale. This said it tooled around town well, was quite smooth on the highway thanks in part to a long wheelbase, and took to reasonably paced corners with fairly confident poise.

2018 Nissan Frontier Crew Cab Midnight Edition
The V6 provides good, smooth, energetic power, but some competitors offer a turbo-diesel that improves fuel economy, for a hefty price mind you. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

I mentioned a moment ago that the driver’s seat was comfortable, but neglected to comment on the rear row. When the seat in front was set up for my unusually long-legged five-foot-eight height, I had about three inches left over ahead of my knees in behind, plus about four inches over my head, while it was a bit tight from side-to-side. There’s no flip-down centre armrest in this trim, this reserved for top-line SL buyers, but a set of cupholders can be folded out from the backside of the front console, while the 60/40-split seat cushions can be flipped up and out of the way in order to reveal some useful cargo storage bins underneath, although something more akin to the full-size Titan’s optional rear flat load floor would be better, as its bins feature retractable lids that transform into large, flat, carpeted loading areas when the need to keep smaller cargo safe and dry comes into play.

2018 Nissan Frontier Crew Cab Midnight Edition
Dated yes, but the 2018 Frontier delivers solid value in a well-proven, reliable package. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

As noted earlier, the newer GM trucks provide better bed access when the tailgate is lowered thanks to more innovative rear bumpers with integrated corner steps, but others make retractable steps available that work just as well, or these can be ordered from an aftermarket parts supplier. When up on the bed, the spray-on bed liner was amongst the grippiest I’ve ever experienced, which aids safety yet makes it challenging to clean. My broom wasn’t able to get all of the fallen twigs and dried leaves from under the tracks of the cargo system either, so I’d recommend you purchase a power washer for such situations. Take note the base Frontier can manage payloads of 404 kilograms (890 lbs) while upper trims are capable of 652 kg (1,440 lbs), making it a capable hauler for work and play, even if it does come up a bit short on creature comforts and convenience items.

Of course, any lack of features in the current Frontier will be remedied when its modernized replacement arrives, but for Nissan’s retailers that couldn’t come soon enough. After all, Nissan should sell more mid-size pickups than full-size, this being the usual state of affairs for an import brand, but with a recently renewed Titan in its lineup, filled with plenty of body styles, engine choices, trim levels and design options, not to mention thoroughly up-to-date electronics, it currently has the lead.

Just how competitive are GM’s new Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon mid-size pickup trucks on the Canadian market? Toyota’s longtime best-selling Tacoma is still ahead, but so far this year we’re…

2017 Chevrolet Colorado Z71 Crew Cab 4WD

2017 Chevrolet Colorado Z71 Crew Cab 4WD
If this 2017 Chevy Colorado Z71 Crew Cab 4WD looks familiar, we tested near identical versions in 2016 and 2015. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

Just how competitive are GM’s new Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon mid-size pickup trucks on the Canadian market? Toyota’s longtime best-selling Tacoma is still ahead, but so far this year we’re talking about a sales lead of the finest of margins possible.

Are you sitting down? The Tacoma is just one single solitary truck more popular than the GM twins, with Toyota’s small truck sales at 5,041 units from January 1 to May 31, 2017, and Chevrolet/GMC’s twosome at 5,040 deliveries during the same five months. What are the chances of this? And how much did missing the sales lead by just two trucks hurt at GM Canada’s Oshawa HQ?

Then again, GM Canada can be plenty happy about providing a mid-size truck that’s so impressive they’ve managed to gain an incredible amount of ground against the once totally dominant Toyota since arriving back on the scene in 2014. In fact, the two GM trucks managed to outsell the Tacoma last year with 12,652 sales compared to 12,618, which is again very close.

2017 Chevrolet Colorado Z71 Crew Cab 4WD
A great looking truck, it gets a body-colour rear bumper and trim when upgraded to the LT or Z71. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

Their U.S. counterparts haven’t been so successful due to the GMC variant dragging its heels against the much more popular Chevy, the former brand’s year-to-date sales just 12,372 units compared to the bowtie brand’s 40,670, which combined equal 53,042 units compared to the Toyota USA’s 78,153 Tacomas. Likewise, last year’s total sales were 108,725 units for the Colorado and 37,449 for the Canyon resulting in total combined deliveries of 146,174, which sounds great until compared to the Tacoma’s 191,631 sales.

On a per capita basis it’s quite clear Canadians are much bigger mid-size GM pickup truck fans than our friends to the south—so much for the heartbeat of America.

Having recently driven every new 2017 truck on the market, except for the GMC version (I’ve got one booked for later this month, but it’s mostly the same if you hadn’t already figured that out) and the Nissan Frontier (it’s way too old to consider calling new despite being dubbed with the 2017 model year, although it had its strongest 12 months of sales in more than a decade last year), I can understand why the GM trucks are selling so well. They’ve got styling, performance, efficiency, interior design and execution, infotainment excellence, and those brilliant rear bumper corner steps going for them. And I haven’t even driven the recently added 2.8-litre Duramax turbo-diesel yet (hopefully that’ll be in the upcoming Canyon).

2017 Chevrolet Colorado Z71 Crew Cab 4WD
Yikes! This truck needs a bed liner something bad, as its box paint is still perfect. Fortunately GM offers multiple types, but I’d hate to scratch it up so I had better refrain from hauling anything. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

Behind my 2017 Chevy Colorado Z71 Crew Cab 4WD tester’s smiling grille is GM’s 3.6-litre DOHC, direct-injection V6 with a variable intake manifold and variable valve timing making 308 horsepower at 6,800 rpm and 275 lb-ft of torque at 4,000 rpm, which is three horsepower and six lb-ft of torque more than last year. Suffice to say it moves along quickly enough, but it’s also quite efficient due in part to cylinder deactivation that temporarily cuts fuel to three of its cylinders when coasting or otherwise not required, and auto start/stop that shuts the engine off entirely when it would otherwise be idling, both new to this V6.

Fuel economy remains the same at 13.6 L/100km city, 9.9 highway and 11.9 combined, which is par for the course (the Tacoma 4X4 Double Cab V6 with a similar configuration is good for an estimated 13.1 L/100km city, 10.5 highway and an identical 11.9 combined, despite just 278 horsepower and 265 lb-ft of torque), although that segment-exclusive four-cylinder turbo-diesel mentioned earlier, which puts out 181 horsepower at 3,400 rpm and 369 lb-ft of torque at 2,000 rpm, gets a claimed 12.0 L/100km city, 8.2 highway and 10.3 combined.

My tester’s advanced mode-selectable eight-speed automatic transmission with manual shift capability has much to do with its efficiency, this having the most forward speeds of any pickup truck in the class, plus when the Trailering Package is added it now includes a standard trailer brake controller (previously only available with the diesel), helping it achieve up to 3,175 kilos (7,000 lbs) of trailering weight as tested, whereas the diesel 4×4 can pull up to 3,447 kg (7,600 lbs).

2017 Chevrolet Colorado Z71 Crew Cab 4WD
The Z71 gets a very nice interior that’s highlighted by an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen with the impressive Chevrolet MyLink interface. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

Also notable, GM’s AutoTrac automatic four-wheel drive system is now standard fare with the V6, the old system requiring users to manually select 2WD, 4WD Hi or 4WD Lo.

Strangely, of all the potential variations of cab size (there are three), bed length (there are two), engines (there are three), transmissions (there are two), drivelines (two again), and trim levels (there are many), all of the Colorados loaned to me over the past three years have been almost identical in configuration. The first two Z71 Crew Cab Short Box V6 4WD models were even the same Red Hot colour, while this latest 2017 model is trimmed out nearly the same once again other than its new for 2017 Cajun Red Tintcoat paintjob, although even that’s another shade of red (Graphite grey is also new for 2017, while Laser Blue and Orange Burst were late additions to the 2016 model).

Even their interiors have been the same, with carbon copy black and grey, leatherette and cloth upholstery. They’ve all been very nice, but how about some variety GM? I’d like to try a base truck with the 2.5-litre four, or for that matter the diesel I’ve been going on and on about. The new ZR2, Chevy’s mid-size answer to Ford’s off-road racing replica Raptor, would be a wonderful change. That model with the diesel might be just about perfect.

2017 Chevrolet Colorado Z71 Crew Cab 4WD
From this angle it’s the exact same interior that I’ve tested three years in a row, despite Chevy offering many more Colorado options. It’s still nice, however. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

The diesel was new last year, by the way, with this latest 2017 model having some additions of its own. These include the aforementioned nudge upward in V6 performance, plus a new larger 7.0-inch infotainment touchscreen incorporating an updated Chevrolet MyLink interface with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, available with the base WT (Work Truck) and standard in mid-range LT trim.

My tester received the same impressive 8.0-inch Chevrolet MyLink infotainment system as last year’s version, complete with the previously mentioned features in the 7.0-inch system as well as Bluetooth streaming audio, voice activation, satellite radio, four USB ports, and more.

If you’re wondering what you get for the upgrade to Z71 trim, the features list includes an automatic locking rear diff, hill descent control, an upgraded twin-tube shock infused off-road suspension, a transfer case shield, 17-inch Dark Argent metallic cast aluminum alloys on 255/65 all-terrain tires, a full-size 16-inch spare, projector style headlights, fog lamps, remote start, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, single-zone auto climate control, a powered front passenger seat, powered lumbar support for both front seats, heatable front seats, a sliding rear window, an EZ-Lift and Lower tailgate, and more.

2017 Chevrolet Colorado Z71 Crew Cab 4WD
Spacious and comfortable in back? Come back to find out in an upcoming review. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

The Z71 gets most everything from LT trim too, including the two-speed AutoTrac transfer case noted earlier, body-colour side mirror housings, door handles and rear bumper, remote entry, a tilt and telescopic leather-wrapped multifunction steering wheel, chrome interior door handles, an overhead console, illuminated vanity mirrors, a colour multi-information display, cruise control, the larger 8.0-inch touchscreen, OnStar with 4G LTE Wi-Fi, and more.

Lastly, some notable items that get pulled up to Z71 trim from the base WT (when equipped with the Crew Cab, Short Box, and 4WD) include the V6, eight-speed, four-wheel discs with ABW, traction control and StabiliTrak stability control, front recovery hooks, black beltline mouldings, a cargo box light, GM’s exclusive (and brilliant) CornerStep rear bumper, powered door locks, a locking tailgate, colour-keyed carpeting, carpeted floor mats front and rear, powered windows, front bucket seats, a powered driver’s seat, a split-folding rear bench seat, a floor-mounted centre console, air conditioning, a backup camera, a six-speaker audio system, tire pressure monitoring, all the expected airbags front and rear, and more.

That 2017 Colorado Z71 Crew Cab Short Box 4WD starts at $38,545 plus freight and fees, but was outfitted with yet more gear as-tested including the Cajun paint at $595, upgraded cargo area lamps at $310, and four cargo tie-down rings at $125, pushing the total price up to $39,575.

How do I like it? Have I experienced any problems so far? What would I change? Does it deserve its success? I’ll answer these questions and more in an upcoming review. Until then I recommend you come back for more…

Stories about unprecedented pickup truck sales growth aren’t fully founded in reality, as shown by 2016 Canadian sales stats. Only Ford’s F-150 saw a big improvement last year, with 145,409 units…

2017 Nissan Titan Crew Cab PRO-4X

2017 Nissan Titan Crew Cab PRO-4X
The 2017 Nissan Titan Crew Cab PRO-4X gets less chrome than its siblings for a sportier look. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

Stories about unprecedented pickup truck sales growth aren’t fully founded in reality, as shown by 2016 Canadian sales stats. Only Ford’s F-150 saw a big improvement last year, with 145,409 units out the door compared to just 118,837 in calendar year 2015, but it suffered from production issues that year. Toyota’s Tundra grew its numbers too, from 10,829 deliveries in 2015 to 11,364 in 2016, but compared to the blue oval, Toyota is clearly in the minor leagues when it comes to full-size pickups.

Last year’s losers include the Ram pickup that had its best year ever with 91,195 units in 2015 but fell to 89,666 sales in 2016 (nevertheless that’s its second-best-ever tally), whereas GMC Sierra deliveries dipped from 53,727 units in 2015 to 51,091 last year, Chevy’s Silverado sales dropped from 46,407 in 2015 to 44,932 in 2016, and believe it or not Nissan’s new Titan, which had 3,226 buyers in 2015 found only 2,715 last year, despite an entirely new model.

2017 Nissan Titan Crew Cab PRO-4X
Its rugged exterior can be had in a much brighter array of available colours if you want it to really stand out. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

This dramatic downward drop wasn’t necessarily due to any reduction in interest, but more so a changeover to the new model (which required phasing out the old one) and the lack of a gasoline-powered version (only the new heavy-half “Extra Duty” Cummins diesel was available for 2016).

Incidentally, the full-size pickup truck sales scenario played out similarly in the U.S. last year, with all models south of the 49th moving up and down the sales chart just like here in Canada, except for the Ram pickup and Titan that gained in numbers and the Tundra that lost out.

2017 Nissan Titan Crew Cab PRO-4X
LED lighting elements, body-colour and black trim, and these 18-inch machine-finished alloys add to the PRO-4X look. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

The Titan’s lack of gasoline power has been remedied for model year 2017, and the first four months of the New Year has improved for Japan’s alternative full-size truck brand here in Canada with 1,566 deliveries so far. If extrapolated throughout the year this number would grow to almost 4,700, resulting in the Titan’s best year ever (it’s previous high was 3,499 units in 2012), but we’d better not count these chickens before they’re hatched, as we know how that can turn out in the auto industry.

Still, there are a lot of reasons to be bullish about the new 2017 Titan, especially in standard trim. Those who like the look of the rugged new Titan XD will be happy Nissan kept its façade mostly unchanged with the standard truck, including its bold three-part rectangular grille, massive headlamp clusters, muscularly flared fenders, sporty side engine vents, and acres of chrome (depending on trim).

2017 Nissan Titan Crew Cab PRO-4X
This is a sign of its new base V8 engine, now good for 390 horsepower and 401 lb-ft of torque. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

Actually, the $57,600 Crew Cab PRO-4X in our garage is the sportiest Titan variant, meaning much of its chrome has been swapped out for body-colour, matte black and satin aluminum, resulting in a look that’s much more sophisticated and (to these eyes) much more appealing. Along with the subdued glitter it gets a fabulous looking set of 18-inch machine-finished alloys with black painted pockets and (partial) spokes, these wrapped in 275/65 Toyo Open Country winters on my tester (although the standard 275/70 all-terrains would no doubt prove more capable off the beaten path).

Adding to the PRO-4X model’s trail trekking prowess are Bilstein off-road shocks, an electronic locking rear differential, hill descent control, transfer case and lower radiator skid plates, etcetera, while the interior gets metallic-tone interior accents, carpeted floor mats with PRO-4X logos, front bucket seats with special PRO-4X embroidery and a centre console in place of the standard bench, plus more.

2017 Nissan Titan Crew Cab PRO-4X
This upscale cabin comes as part of both PRO-4X and Luxury package upgrades. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

The standard Titan loses no size to the XD, with both near identical in length, width and height, depending on trim. The Regular Cab body style gets an eight-foot bed, whereas Crew Cab models utilize a five-and-a-half-foot bed. Nissan promises an extended cab model at a later date, but for now only the two cab and bed configurations are available.

I won’t go into detail about our tester’s cabin other than to say the $6,400 Luxury package makes for an impressive off-roader thanks to leather upholstery with white contrast stitching, front seat ventilation, a heatable steering wheel, heatable rear seats, a 360-degree Around View monitor, and remote start.

Our Crew Cab tester was outfitted with Nissan’s Utili-track Channel System with four load-securing tie-down cleats, standard with the PRO-4X, while integrated in-bed lockable boxes are also available. Even more important (depending on your height) is a new retractable Rear Bumper Step Assist system that aids access to the bed for only $399 (although standard with the PRO-4X), while available $1,029 step rails or $1,159 running boards would’ve been helpful too.

2017 Nissan Titan Crew Cab PRO-4X
A 360-degree camera helps with a truck this large. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

Standard PRO-4X exterior features not already mentioned include auto on/off headlights with signature LEDs, “Follow Me Home” functionality and integrated LED DRLs, plus fog lamps, LED under-rail bed and tailgate area lighting, heatable power-adjustable manually-extendable tow mirrors with integrated turn signals and puddle lights, rain-sensing wipers, front and rear parking sensors, blindspot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, a power-sliding rear window with a defroster, a factory-applied spray-on bedliner, a 110-volt power outlet in the bed, an electronic locking tailgate, rear utility bed steps, a Class IV tow hitch receiver with a four-pin/seven-pin wiring harness, trailer brake controller and trailer light check, and more.

2017 Nissan Titan Crew Cab PRO-4X
That’s leather with white contrast stitching, part of the PRO-4X Luxury package. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

Proximity keyless entry with pushbutton ignition gets you inside, where you’ll be met by everything already noted as well as a leather-wrapped steering wheel, dual-zone automatic climate control, NissanConnect infotainment with a 7.0-inch touchscreen featuring a rearview camera, navigation, mobile apps, voice recognition, SiriusXM Traffic and Siri Eyes Free, Rockford Fosgate audio with 12 speakers and a sub, a centre console-mounted household-style 110-volt AC outlet, an eight-way powered driver’s seat with powered lumbar, heatable front seats, a lockable rear-seat cargo organizer, and much more.

The lighter weight regular Titan is an able ranch hand yet not quite the beast of burden of the XD, its maximum payload just 730 kilos (1,610 lbs) compared to the XD’s best 907-kilogram (2,000-lb) rating, and its top tow rating is 4,259 kg (9,390 lbs) instead of 5,443 kg (12,000 lbs). This comes down to a lighter duty chassis with unique spring rates, hubs, brakes, and more.

2017 Nissan Titan Crew Cab PRO-4X
A roomy interior? We’ll tell all in an upcoming review. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

The only engine on offer in the regular Titan is Nissan’s Endurance 5.6-litre V8 capable of a generous 390 horsepower and 401 lb-ft of torque, which adds up to 73 more horsepower and 16 lb-ft of extra torque over the outgoing V8. This new engine is also found in Nissan’s 2017 Armada SUV (and its Infiniti QX80 counterpart), while all variations on the theme are partnered to the same seven-speed automatic transmission.

For comparison purposes, the Endurance 5.6-litre V8 matches up well against the Ram 1500’s 5.7-litre Hemi V8 and Toyota’s 5.7-litre Tundra V8, while it’s stronger than Ford’s 5.0-litre V8 and GM’s 5.3-litre V8.

2017 Nissan Titan Crew Cab PRO-4X
That’s a helpful retractable step under the Titan bumper. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

Four-wheel drive is standard on all but the base Titan Regular Cab S model, which incidentally starts at just $35,498. That price will likely go down when a V6 model is introduced, but so far we only have a promise from Nissan, with no release date.

As for fuel economy, the Titan Crew Cab achieves a claimed 15.2 L/100km in the city and 11.1 on the highway, whereas my PRO-4X tester is less frugal at the pump with a rating of 16.0 L/100km city and 12.0 highway.

I’ll include much more info as well as my driving impressions in an upcoming road test review, so stay tuned for more…