The Top 10 Reasons Why You May want to Buy a 2015 Chevrolet Silverado 1500: Pros&Cons

One of the most enduring full-size pickups on the market, the Chevrolet Silverado 1500 combines excellent power and performance with a long list of convenience amenities. The 2015 model boast a refined interior that is incredibly comfortable, and the ride is very quiet.

The difference between what Chevrolet offers and what the competition dishes up is the amazing amount of configurations from which to choose. Aside from the three distinct body designs - cab, double-cab, and crew - there are plenty of package options. Building one's very own package is as fun a driving the vehicle once it is purchased.

For those wanting lots of towing power, the Silverado 1500 can't be beat. It is also a ruggedly built vehicle that stands up to whatever the driver or nature can throw at it. For the price paid, this is a top-quality vehicle that will, in many cases, provide more than 200K miles of dependability.

What's New For 2015

The uplevel trims come with an available 6.2L engine and an 8-speed automatic transmission. The vehicle itself got a major overhaul just last year, with improvements to the fuel efficiency as well as the interior materials. What was once designated as the 2WT Work Truck trim is now known as the LS.

Top Ten Reasons To Buy A 2015 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 - The Pros

1) Towing Capability


Few competing models can easily tow 6,000 pounds or more. The 2015 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 with its standard V6 engine can haul more than 7,600 pounds. The larger 8-speed automatic transmission paired with the 6.2L engine allows for towing of up to 12,000 pounds, very impressive for any full-size pickup.

2) Three Different Cab Designs


Buyers should have no trouble identifying the configuration that is best for them. The smaller 1500 model standard cab is certainly roomy enough, and the larger extended cab version offers a great deal more storage space. The crew cab model offers the choice of a standard 6.5-foot bed or a shorter 5.7-foot bed. The regular cab has a rather long 8.2-foot bed, with a shorter 6.5-foot bed available as a smaller vehicle size option.

3) Off-Road Z71 Trim Available


This is a variant of the High Country Trim, and has a number of specially designed performance-enhancing features. Specialized shock absorbers, hill descent control, and underbody shielding are a few of the added equipment features of this uplevel version.

4) Plenty Of Horsepower


The standard engine on all but the LTZ trims and special package vehicles is a 4.3L V6 that delivers a total of 285 horsepower. The 24 mpg highway fuel efficiency estimate for the regular cab 1500 equipped with this engine is more than satisfactory. The available 5.3L V8 is optional on all Silverado trims and standard on the LTZ version. The ultra-powerful 6.2L V8, available on the LTZ and package versions, provides a whopping 420 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque.

5) Beautifully Arranged Interior


Not long ago, interiors of even the upscale, hard-working pickups lacked most of the convenience features seen on today's crossovers. The 2015 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 has an exceptionally well-designed interior, with excellent quality materials found throughout the cabin. The bins, cup holders, and storage slots seem to be everywhere, but these pockets do not in any way diminish the roominess of the cab.

The seats are thickly padded, meaning total comfort on even the longest trips. Most trims offer the choice of either bench or bucket front seats. The uplevel packages include a total of five USB ports.

6) A More Comfortable Ride


Last year, Chevrolet introduced a new suspension system and plenty of noise-reduction/dampening refinements. The result is one of the quietest rides of any domestic pickup truck. The suspension is superb, with practically no cabin shock when driving over potholes.

7) Newly Designed Driver Interface


The uplevel trims include a MyLink audio system with a 4.2-inch display screen. The luxurious LTZ trim adds a larger, 8-inch touchscreen that controls the audio system, air conditioning, and satellite radio.

8) Top Safety Ratings


The 2015 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 has earned a perfect score for overall collision protection. The vehicle scored five stars on both the front- and side-impact collision tests. OnStar is now standard on all but the Work Truck trim, and all of the uplevel trims feature the optional safety package that includes a rearview camera and driver alert system.

9) Competitive Price


Price is always the deal breaker when it comes to deciding on a pickup trim level. the 2015 Chevrolet Silverado starts out at around $25,000 for the Regular Cab, and the uplevel trims compete favorably with the competition, with the average dealer price for the double-cab LTZ being around $40,000.

10) Lasting Quality


Unlike some earlier versions, the 2015 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 now competes with all other heavy-duty pickups in the depreciation department. This model holds its value better than most other domestic vehicles in this segment.

Reasons You May Not Want To Buy A 2015 Chevrolet Silverado

1) Lethargic Acceleration When Towing


This model struggles somewhat when towing large loads with the smaller, standard V6 engine. The gear ratios are widely spaced, meaning hesitation and even momentary deceleration.

2) Big Price Jump For The 8-Speed Transmission


This is something that turns many potential buyers away. Those who want the smoother acceleration better not settle for the base trim.

3) Stiff Ride With The Trailering Package


This optional package offers plenty of convenience and practical features, but the handling is strange, with turning requiring a bit more effort.

How It Stacks Up To The Competition

The Silverado 1500 has some competition from the Ford F-150 and RAM 1500. Ford's offering has better outward visibility, although it cannot tow quite as much. The RAM 1500 offers excellent handling as well as good fuel economy thanks to its diesel engine. However, neither of these models offer quite the luxurious interior or trim/configuration combinations that Chevrolet boasts.

Conclusion

The Silverado 1500 has more than proven its worth over the years. It has evolved slowly but steadily, and today's version has all the latest high-tech additions now seen in today's luxury sedans and SUVs. If towing heavy loads and riding in comfort are key, then this is the truck to consider.

News Source: http://www.car-buying-strategies.com/Chevrolet/2015-Silverado-1500.html

2015 Ford F-150 vs. 2015 Chevrolet Silverado: Which Is Better?

There are many reasons that the Chevy Silverado and Ford F-Series are the two most popular trucks, not to mention the two most popular vehicles overall, on sale today. They're versatile, powerful and reasonably priced. They also come in a wide array of configurations and offer a seemingly unending supply of engines and body styles. If you're trying to decide between the 2015 Chevrolet Silverado and the 2015 Ford F-150, which one is better? It's the age-old question that truck shoppers are always asking, so we've created a close comparison between the vehicles to find out the answer. First, let's see what's new with the Silverado and F-150 for the 2015 model year. 

2015 Ford F-150 

The Ford F-150 is fully redesigned for the 2015 model year. In addition to new styling, a new interior and a series of new safety and convenience features, the 2015 F-150 boasts a new 2.7-liter EcoBoost V6 engine and aluminum construction designed to save weight and boost gas mileage. 

2015 Chevrolet Silverado 

 

After a full redesign for 2014, which included new powertrains, new styling, a new interior and more standard and optional equipment, the Silverado is mostly unchanged for 2015. The only revisions are a newly optional 8-speed automatic transmission for the 6.2-liter V8 engine and a newly renamed LS trim level. 

Reliability 

Although the recently redesigned F-150 is too new for reliability experts at J.D. Power to rate, the Silverado earned a reassuring 4-circle score, indicating better-than-average reliability in the firm's Power Circle Ratings. The outgoing F-150 also earned four circles, and we hope the latest model performs just as well.

As for warranty length, the Silverado and F-150 offer the same bumper-to-bumper terms, 3 years or 36,000 miles, though the Chevy boasts a slightly stronger 5-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty to the F-150's 5-year/60,000 mile plan. Still, reliability is too close to call, and we expect impressive long-term dependability from both trucks. 

Fuel Economy 

 

 

Both the F-150 and the Silverado use a wide array of powertrains designed to fill every possible pickup-truck need. In both trucks, the base-level engine is a V6. It's a 283-horsepower 3.5-liter unit in the F-150, capable of 18 miles per gallon in the city and 25 mpg on the highway, while the Silverado's 285-hp 4.3-liter V6 returns up to 18 mpg city/24 mpg hwy. The F-150 also offers an optional 2.7-liter EcoBoost V6 that offers 325 hp and yields up to 19 mpg city/26 mpg hwy.

If you want a larger engine, the Silverado and F-150 each offer two. The Silverado's 355-hp 5.3-liter V8 boasts up to 16 mpg city/23 mpg hwy, while its more powerful 420-hp 6.2-liter V8 returns 15 mpg city/21 mpg hwy. Meanwhile, the F-150's optional powerplants are a V8 and another turbocharged V6. The V8 makes 385 hp and 387 lb-ft of torque and returns 15 mpg city/21 mpg hwy; the V6 puts out 365 hp and 420 lb-ft and returns an impressive 17 mpg city/24 mpg hwy.

The overall theme is that, from entry-level models to the top of the line, the F-150 boasts slightly higher fuel economy ratings than the Silverado does with virtually every engine. As a result, the F-150 is our pick if fuel economy is important to you. 

Safety 

 

Although the F-150 has not yet been crash-tested by the federal government's National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, it will be hard to be beat the Silverado's perfect 5-star rating. We think the F-150 will earn high scores, though, because its predecessor managed a near-perfect 4-star rating.

In terms of safety features, the F-150 and the Silverado offer the same level of standard items: anti-lock brakes, stability and traction control, and side-curtain airbags. The F-150 boasts more overall features, including a 360-degree camera, forward-collision warning with brake priming, a blind spot monitoring system and inflatable seat belts. None of these extras are offered in the Silverado. As a result, safety is a draw: The Silverado boasts excellent crash-test ratings, but the F-150 offers more features. 

Technology 

 

If technology is your thing, you'll find a surprisingly high level of the latest gadgets in both trucks. The Silverado, for example, offers remote starting, a rear-seat Blu-ray player, an 8-inch touchscreen for the truck's MyLink infotainment system and off-road-friendly hill-descent control.

It's the F-150 that really has the last word in high-tech equipment. Ford's full-size truck offers automatic high-beam control, adaptive cruise control, automatic parallel parking assist, power retractable running boards, and LED headlights and taillights. Again, none of these features are offered in the Silverado. As a result, we suspect that technophiles will prefer the Ford to the Chevy. 

Value 

 

From a value standpoint, you'd be hard-pressed to find serious differences between the F-150 and the Silverado. The F-150 can tow a little more, and its payload capacity is a little higher than the Silverado's. Mileage is a little better, too, but the Silverado tends to be slightly cheaper. Most importantly, none of these differences are so severe that we suspect buyers would vastly prefer one truck to another as a result. In the end, a victory in the value category goes to the truck that offers the most stuff for the best price, and that may simply come down to negotiating the best possible price at the dealer.

AutoTrader's Advice 

We really like the all-new Chevrolet Silverado, but we like the slightly newer 2015 Ford F-150 even more. No, the Ford doesn't dramatically stand out over the Chevy in any one area: Fuel economy is just a little better, as are gas mileage, hp, safety features and technology. The same goes for payload capacity and towing capacity. When you add all those up, the F-150 emerges as the clear winner. We wouldn't completely turn our back on the Silverado, but if we were writing the check, our money would go to the Ford dealer.

News Source: http://www.autotrader.com/research/article/car-reviews/234134/2015-ford-f-150-vs-2015-chevrolet-silverado-which-is-better.jsp

Mercedes-Benz G500 4x4² Concept is a mix between the G-Class and G63 AMG 6x6

 
What you get when you try to mix the Mercedes-Benz G-Class with the impressive G63 AMG 6x6? The G500 4x4 of course or the G-Class Squared. Set to make its world debut at the 2015 Geneva Motor Show, the new concept features a simple recipe: the all-wheel-drive powertrain including portal axles from the 6x6 “lost” one axle and was blended with the newly-developed variable chassis and the series-production G-Class body.

A big surprise is found under the hood, as the vehicle uses the brand new 4.0-liter V8 biturbo engine that powers the new Mercedes-AMG GT, delivering 422 hp (310 kW). The first visual impact with the vehicle shows the impressive 22-inch 325/55 R22 wheels as well as the wider track of the portal axles (+299 mm). If you are a fan of nature, you will be happy to know that the G500 4x4² is available with the optional off-road size 37 x 12.5 18-inch MT tyres.

As expected, power is delivered through the permanent all-wheel drive but the concept comes with several goodies, such as an off-road reduction in the transfer case, portal axles and three differentials lockable whilst on the move.
 

Compared with the standard G500, the new G500 4x4² will be easily recognizable thanks to the impressive ground clearance of 450 mm as well as thanks to the height of 2.25 meters and the 2.10 meters width. And this is not all as the concept arrives with LED light strips located above the windscreen, partially painted wheel-arch flarings (both in fine carbon fiber) and with a front bumper as seen on the G63 AMG and G65 AMG models.

Inside, the SUV gets the designo Exclusive package, which means that the The seat bolsters and head restraints as well as the dashboard, centre console and armrests in the doors are styled in black designo leather with white contrasting topstitching. Meanwhile, the seat surfaces and door panels are wrapped in Dinamica microfiber and impress with their diamond-design quilting.

We expect the Mercedes-Benz G500 4x4² to be able to conquer any terrain thanks to the new damper adjustment that is derived from rally sport. The manufacturer says that two spring/damper struts running in parallel are used for each wheel.  
 

 

 

One spring/damper strut works conventionally with set damper characteristics, while the second spring strut has electronically controlled adjustable damping. With this set-up, considerable kingpin inclination is possible between the settings SPORT and COMFORT, which the driver can select using a button in the centre console and switching times takes just 15 milliseconds. 

News Source: http://www.4wheelsnews.com/mercedes-benz-g500-4x4-concept-is-a-mix-between-the-g-class-and-g63-amg-6x6/

The Top 10 Reasons Why You May want to Buy a 2015 Ram 1500: Pros&Cons

Based on consumer reviews and on what folks are saying who take a test drive, the 2015 Ram 1500 comes out on top in the light-duty full-size pickup segment. Ram trucks have been given some pretty big makeovers in the past few years and now compete quite favorably against models from Ford and Chevrolet. The 2015 Ram 1500 is still available in standard, extended, and crew cab configurations, and the diesel engine option delivers better fuel economy than any other similarly designed vehicle.

Ram 1500 series trucks are noted for their rugged build, exceptional materials quality, and quiet ride. Although many consumers are satisfied with their choice of a GMC, Ford, Chevy, or import, most reviewers highly recommend taking a close look at the current Ram model options. The price is right, the safety scores are high, and the customer satisfaction level is stratospheric. 

What's New For 2015

The 2015 Ram 1500 standard, extended, and crew cabs have had very few modifications that set them apart from the previous year's models. The regular-sized cab Sport trim is now available as an R/T version, with larger 22-inch wheels, a 6-foot, 4-inch bed, limited-slip differential, and an enhanced stereo system. Some of the driver info software and viewscreen details have been adjusted slightly. Otherwise, it's the same pickup, available in the same colors as before. 

Top 10 Reasons To Buy A 2015 Ram 1500 

• Diesel Engine Available 

This option is what really sets the Ram 1500 apart from the competition. It is the only pickup in its segment offering a diesel engine. Available on all trims except Express and Sport, this 3.0L turbocharged "EcoDiesel" provides 240 horsepower and will save money on the road. Current estimates are 27 mpg on the highway. This version comes only with an 8-speed automatic transmission, but that is just fine with the overwhelming majority of buyers. 

• Powerful V8 Engine Option

For those who need more muscle under the hood, the 2015 Ram 1500 can be purchased with either the standard V6 or the ultra-powerful 5.7L V8. This larger engine is available on all trims except the HFE and is standard on the Sport, Laramie Longhorn, and Laramie Limited. The 8-speed automatic transmission on these versions is controlled by a rotary knob located on the central instrument panel.

• Auto-Shift From 2WD To 4WD

For those wanting the optional 4WD package, there is an available auto-shift option. The auto 4WD mode senses road conditions and kicks in the switch between 2- and 4-wheel power without the driver having to make the adjustment manually.

• Beautifully Designed Interior

Pickup trucks have come a long way over the past decade when it comes to interior design. More luxurious cabins are now the standard. However, the 2015 Ram 1500 offers one of the most elegant layouts in its segment. The base trims have very nicely arranged consoles and easy-to-reach intuitive controls. The crew cab boasts the most comfortable rear seats of any domestic pickup truck.

• Nice Driver Information Center

The mid-level trims come with a 5-inch touchscreen, satellite radio, and Bluetooth/audio connectivity. The uplevel trims can be purchased with a larger, 8.4-inch viewscreen with touch controls.

• Advanced Coil-Spring Suspension

The 2015 Ram 1500 rides very quietly and responds well to sharp turns of the steering wheel. The coil-spring suspension is very sensitive and makes for enjoyable off-road travel.

• Air Suspension Option

The available air suspension is worth taking a close look at. This suspension system allows the driver to drop the vehicle two inches with a simple flip of a switch. This makes stepping in and out of the truck a bit easier and also makes liftover of items into the bed a more agreeable task.

• Classy Exterior On The Sport Trim

This is a very nicely appointed exterior for the price paid. The Sport Trim features dual exhaust, power-folding mirrors with puddle lamps, projector-style headlights, and LED taillights. Drivers will fall in love with the headlight smoked lenses as well as the LED accents and integrated turn signals.

• Off-Road Version: Outdoorsman

The Outdoorsman trim option has a few extra niceties that make for enjoyable off-road driving. These include fender flares, underbody skid plates, and all-terrain tires. Tow hooks are also included. This version also has a larger fuel tank and the "RamBox" weatherproof bedside bins.

• Good Crash Test Scores

In government tests, the 2015 Ram 1500 scored four stars out of a possible five for overall safety, but earned five stars in side-impact crash testing. The stopping distance for the larger crew cab trims averages about 135 feet, remarkable considering the extra weight on these versions.

Reasons You May Not Want To Buy A 2015 Ram 1500

•  High Cost Of Diesel Engine Option

The fuel savings are impressive, but many buyers will feel the upfront cost is not worth it.

• Better High-Tech Gizmos On Competing Models

The driver information center and audio system on the Ram 1500 please many who choose this model, but those seeking the most advanced safety systems such as driver alerts can find these as standard equipment on some of the competing models.

• Expensive Price For Uplevel Trims

The base trim regular and extended cab are priced lower than most other light-duty pickups, but the Outdoorsman, Laramie options, and Sport trims are more expensive than what most folks want to pay for.

How Is Stacks Up To The Competition

In terms of interior design and available configurations, the 2015 Ram 1500 can't be beat. The closest relatives are the Chevy Silverado, Ford F-150, and Toyota Tundra. All of these models offer about the same gas mileage - except when compared to the Ram 1500 diesel version - and have similarly designed exteriors. However, they cannot match Ram's interior materials quality, and most of the competing models do not offer a choice of suspension system or a truly off-road variant.

Conclusion

Drivers will either stick with a make and model or decide it's time to make a change. Long considered an also-ran when compared to Ford or Chevrolet, Ram trucks - especially the 1500 series - are now getting all of the glowing reviews from owners. This is a fine pick if the most important considerations are comfort, elegance, quiet ride, and base price. 

News Source: www.car-buying-strategies.com/Ram/2015-1500.html

2017 Land Rover Defender Rumors, Release Date

The most capable 2017 Land Rover Defender is reportedly going to make its debut by the end of 2015, while its release date is scheduled for 2016. Here are the latest details and rumors regarding its design and performance.

Exterior and Interior Design  

I don’t know if you guys remember the 2011 Land Rover DC100 Concept model introduced several years ago, but the new 2017 Land Rover Defender will most likely be based on this concept. It might look something like this:  

The automaker has already signed off the car’s final design, so expect to see some official photos in the upcoming months. The production model may differ from the rendering photos posted above and below, if the automaker decide to refresh the exterior design of this model in order to make it more appealing to the audience and customers. I remember that the DC100 Concept wasn’t well received among the audience, so Land Rover have to think twice about what to do with this model.  

What I know for sure is that the 2017 Land Rover Defender will be built on the PLA platform, which include a much stiffer and stronger aluminum monocoque chassis, as well as the bigger wheels similar to those found on the Toyota Hilux or Land Cruiser. It is going to be one of the most capable Land Rover’s ever, ready for driving on any terrain and during different weather conditions.

No word on the vehicle’s interior, but I know for sure that the new Defender will receive luxury and premium materials, such as Nappa leather or Alcantara, as well as modern infotainment system, premium audio system, and satellite navigation.

Below you can see the DC100 Concept introduced in 2011.  

 

Engine Range and Transmission

In this moment there are no details on the engine options. However, some sources speculate that the 2017 Land Rover Defender might be available with both petrol and diesel engines. These will include a turbocharged I-4 and V-6 power units. One rumor claim that there might be one Jaguar-sourced V-6. Anyway, these units will be available with either 8- or 9-speed automatic or manual transmissions.  

2017 Land Rover Defender Release Date  

At the beginning of this article I already said that this off-road model will be introduced by the end of the next year. Its promotion might occur at one of the bigger 2015 auto shows, either in New York, Geneva or Frankfurt. The 2017 Land Rover Defender will go on sale in 2016.

News Source: http://2016releasecars.com/2017-land-rover-defender-rumors-release-date/

Ford F-150 EcoBoost v. Ram 1500 EcoDiesel: Which Engine Should You Pick?

- The Ford F-150 is America’s best selling vehicle, and has been for years. Ram Trucks (don’t call them Dodge) have been clawing their way up from the bottom of the truck sales list. To stay competitive, both manufacturers offer a fuel efficient alternative to a traditional V8 engine that also offers good towing capacity.

Ford calls their turbocharged V6 an EcoBoost engine. This engine makes more power and torque than the 5.0L V8 engine that comes standard with many F-150s.

Ram introduced a V6 diesel engine to their 1500 lineup. Called EcoDiesel, the engine makes more torque than the Hemi V8 that comes with many 1500s.

Both engines are turbo, but they run on different types of fuel. Both are also a unique way each brand is trying to capture new customers from the rest of the competition.

If you are looking at a new truck, which engine option should you look at? If you aren’t already sold on the particular brand, these economical engine options might sway you one way or the other. We take a look at both company’s offerings and recommend what we think is best. Read on to find out.

Ford F-150 EcoBoost

The Ford F-150 equipped with an EcoBoost engine.

Ford’s approach to providing better fuel economy while not sacrificing capability comes in the form of an EcoBoost V6 engine. It makes 365 hp and 420 lbs/ft of torque. Aside from the gas guzzling 6.2L V8 that Ford offers, the EcoBoost V6 makes the most torque in the F-150 line of vehicles. The EcoBoost is a $2,395 option on the Ford F-150.

The turbo V6 gets 22 highway mpg. The mileage is decent, but where the EcoBoost engine shines is with towing capacity. An EcoBoost equipped F-150 has a towing capacity of 11,300 lbs.

Turbo engines are fuel efficient when the driver isn’t working the engine hard. Towing, or rapid acceleration, can dramatically lower the fuel economy of a turbo. When Car and Driver reviewed an EcoBoost F-150, they got 12 mpg.

Turbo engines make a lot of torque, which helps with the towing capacity. Since trucks are usually work tools, extra towing capacity outweighs fuel economy in many buyers’ minds.

Ram 1500 EcoDiesel

Ram 1500 EcoDiesel.

 

Ram’s approach to getting better fuel economy is to utilize a modern, clean-burning diesel engine. The EcoDiesel option for the Ram 1500 adds $2,850 to the cost of the truck over the V8 option. The EcoDiesel makes 10 more lbs/ft of torque than the Hemi V8.

On the road, the EcoDiesel’s 28 mpg highway fuel economy rating bests every other half-ton truck sold. From our experience with diesel engines, getting a higher miles-per-gallon number is easy on long highway trips.

In addition to getting best-in-class fuel economy, the Ram 1500 EcoDiesel can still tow 9,200 lbs of stuff. Buyers have to sacrifice very little in the Ram 1500 to get good towing and fuel economy.

Nick Cappa, head of Ram Truck’s media relations, sums up the EcoDiesel’s success. “The No. 1 unmet need in half-ton trucks is fuel economy,” he says. “Combine that with the long-time request for a diesel engine in the segment and along comes the Ram 1500 EcoDiesel. It not only answers both customer demands, it achieves a best-in-class 28 MPG.”

Diesels aren’t what they used to be. We drove the Ram 1500 EcoDiesel both on and off road last fall and couldn’t really tell we were in a diesel truck.

Verdict

We prefer the EcoDiesel option over the EcoBoost in this comparison.

The EcoBoost in the Ford’s towing capacity of 11,300 lbs is over one ton more than the 9,200 lbs the Ram’s EcoDiesel can muster. The EcoBoost also costs less to equip to a F-150 than the EcoDiesel in the Ram 1500.

We can’t argue with the 28 mpg rating of the EcoDiesel. For someone who drives their truck longer distances, the fuel economy of the EcoDiesel will pay off faster than the EcoBoost’s in the F-150. Diesel engines also behave like normal engines, handling towing without significantly lowering fuel economy.

Both engines make 420 lbs/ft of torque and will meet the needs of many truck buyers. We believe that if towing large loads is the primary consideration, the buyer is probably looking at a Super Duty F-Series or Ram 2500.

Diesel engines make sense in trucks. They’re available in Chevy, Ram and Ford’s heavy duty trucks. Ram is the first company to bring diesel to the half ton pickup truck. If we were looking for an everyday pickup truck that gets good gas mileage, we’d opt for the Ram 1500 EcoDiesel every time.

News Source: http://motorreview.com/ford-f-150-ecoboost-v-ram-1500-ecodiesel-engine-pick

2015 Chevrolet Colorado vs. 2015 Chevrolet Silverado: What's the Difference?

 
The 2015 Chevrolet Colorado and the 2015 Chevrolet Silverado have a lot of similarities. They're both newly redesigned pickups, and they're both built by Chevrolet. They're also similar in size, they offer similar interiors, and they include a lot of the same equipment. Cost is also surprisingly close; a well-equipped Colorado can easily enter the range of a Silverado. So what's the difference between the two pickups? We explain it all below.

Exterior

There's no doubt that the Chevrolet Colorado and Silverado look a lot alike, but if you study exterior details, you'll notice some major differences. Most notably, the Colorado looks a little smaller than the Silverado does, which makes sense because it is smaller. The Colorado has smaller headlights, a smaller grille, and generally less of the brawny, "tough truck" look the larger Silverado sports. The Silverado is boxier, while the Colorado has softer lines designed to help distinguish it from its big brother.

Interior

As you might expect, the interiors of the Colorado and the Silverado are similar in a lot of ways -- but just like the trucks' exterior styling, there are some distinctions. Once again, the Silverado's cabin has a more muscular flair than the Colorado's, with a column shifter, huge door handles and a wide center console being the major differences. Some Silverado models also retain a gap below the dashboard for a middle-seat passenger, while the Colorado has a full center console that runs from the area between the seats all the way to the center control stack. Size is also a key difference. While the Colorado isn't exactly hurting for interior space, it's hardly as roomy as the larger Silverado -- especially in back.

Mechanicals

The Colorado and Silverado may look similar, and some versions might be about the same size, but make no mistake, the two trucks are very different under the skin.

In the Colorado, Chevrolet will offer three engines. Base models will use a 200-horsepower 2.5-liter 4-cylinder, which is available with a manual or automatic transmission. Shoppers who want extra power can upgrade to a 300-hp 3.6-liter V6, which is only offered with an automatic transmission. And for drivers looking to save fuel, Chevrolet plans to offer class-exclusive diesel power, courtesy of a 2.8-liter turbodiesel 4-cylinder.

In the Silverado, the standard engine is a 4.3-liter V6 that makes 285 hp and 305 lb-ft of torque. While that powerplant is adequate for the full-size truck, most drivers will upgrade to a more powerful 5.3-liter V8, which makes 355 hp and 383 lb-ft of torque. At the highest end, Silverado models offer a 420-hp 6.2-liter V8. Unlike the Colorado and its standard manual transmission, all Silverados make do with a 6-speed automatic transmission.

In other words: If you want more power and increased capability from your pickup, the Silverado is definitely the way to go.

Features

Although the Silverado is technically the big brother to the Colorado, the two trucks offer about the same levels of equipment and features. There aren't many items you can't get in the Colorado that you can instead get in the Silverado until you start getting to very high-end versions like the Silverado High Country.

Of course, there are some differences in the capacities of the two trucks. For instance, while General Motors says a properly equipped Silverado can tow up to 12,000 pounds, the Colorado's tow rating is limited to around 7,000 pounds. While Chevy hasn't yet announced the Colorado's payload capacity, we can bet it stands a bit below the Silverado's 2,100-lb figure.
 

Technology

Both the 2015 Chevrolet Silverado and the 2015 Chevrolet Colorado are on the leading edge of high-tech equipment in the usually low-tech world of the pickup truck. Both trucks boast GM's new 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot and the automaker's OnStar telematics system. They also both offer backup cameras, a lane-departure warning system and forward collision-alert technology -- items that aren't often seen on a workhorse pickup truck.

Maybe the trucks' most advanced feature is their MyLink infotainment system. Featuring Pandora and other apps, MyLink allows drivers to stream music, get directions, and perform various other tasks. MyLink also comes with Apple's Siri Eyes Free system, which allows iPhone users to control their phones without taking their eyes off the wheel.

Most importantly, gadget lovers won't need to choose between the two trucks, since they offer about the same level of high-tech equipment -- whether standard or optional.

Safety

In government crash tests, the Silverado earned a 5-star overall score from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), thereby becoming the first full-size pickup truck to do so. We suspect that the Colorado will also earn high marks, given General Motors' strong performance in recent crash tests, but we won't know for sure until just before the truck goes on sale.

What we do know is that the Silverado and Colorado boast a long list of impressive safety features. Not only do the trucks come standard with front-side airbags, rear-side airbags and curtain-side airbags, they also boast GM's OnStar system, which offers stolen-vehicle tracking and roadside assistance. They also include a variety of safety options ranging from simple features, such as a backup camera and park assist, to high-tech equipment, such as forward-collision alert and GM's safety seat, which vibrates if you drift from your lane.

Once again, however, safety doesn't differ vastly between the two pickups; they offer about the same level of equipment. We'll find out soon whether the two trucks offer the same level of crashworthiness once the Colorado is tested by the NHTSA.

Conclusions

Although there are still a few unknowns about the 2015 Chevrolet Colorado (such as crash-test ratings and payload capacity), the differences between the Colorado and Chevrolet's larger Silverado are clear. The Silverado is for those who need a larger pickup, with bulky styling, high-grade capabilities and a larger interior. The Colorado, meanwhile, is for drivers who want something a little smaller and more compact that's easier to drive in an urban setting. Fortunately, those shoppers won't get penalized when it comes to equipment and safety features, since nearly all of the options available in the Silverado are also offered in the Colorado.

Source: www.autotrader.com/research/article/car-reviews/230395/2015-chevrolet-colorado-vs-2015-chevrolet-silverado-whats-the-difference.jsp

Jeep Wrangler Rubicon Vs. Regular Wrangler

When the Rubicon-edition Wrangler was released to the general public in late 2003, it represented a triumph of the lunatic fringe over the bean counters and suits inside Jeep Corporation. Of course, all of us dyed-in-the-wool Jeep enthusiasts and buying public loved the idea and in the 8 years since have snapped up just about every one that Jeep has made.

The Rubicon package boasts a stronger transfer case with a lower low range and front and rear Dana 44s factory-loaded with locking differentials and lower gears. The package also offers some additional rocker protection and off-road-oriented mud-terrain tires.

The Rubicon package embodies what a Jeep should be: uncompromisingly off-road capable. It does this so well that even people who will never use low range or the lockers flock to the Rubicon because it is the quintessential Jeep.

NP241OR

That said, the uncompromising nature of the Rubicon might mean that it won't do what you specifically need it to do. In some situations the lower gears in the T-case and axles can be limiting, the factory tires are specially designed for NVH compliance with skinnier and shorter tread blocks, and the factory lockers can have their own shortcomings too. So, what is right for you-the Rubicon or non-Rubicon? That is really a question only you can answer, but here is how our esteemed editors approached the question.

Wishy-Washy Trasborg 

When my girlfriend was Jeep shopping in late 2005/early 2006, I steered her away from the Rubicon-edition Jeep. Sure, the beefier T-case would have been nice, but realistically she didn't need to spend the extra money for the lower gears she didn't really need. Besides, if we were ever to lift it, we would have just needed new carriers to regear it anyway, and the factory lockers would have had to go away.

Today, the gear companies have stepped in with thicker ring gears for the 4.56 and 4.88 crowd so that you can still run your factory lockers with deeper gears. It is one of those if I knew then what I know now kind of things. To complicate matters, at the time she was shopping for a Jeep she wanted 35s, but by the time we had it up on 33s, she was happy with both looks and off-road performance.

She didn't get a Rubicon, and now we both wish she had. What it comes down to is if you plan on running 33-inch tires or smaller, the 4.10 gears in the axles will work great. But then, the 4:1 in the T-case is really only useful if you are wheeling heavy rocks. For sand and regular trail runs the 4:1 is just too low and 1:1 is usually too high, leaving you high and dry with no decent solution.

Then let's talk axles. The Dana 44s are really more like Dana 39s. They don't have the 1/2-ton strength that a Dana 44 should have. The front axle shares more parts with a Dana 30 than a Dana 44, and the TJ rear axle will bend into a smiley face with just a little abuse. I have seen the lockers in both the JK and TJ die horrible deaths where comparable aftermarket units would have lived. The parts for the lockers and the lockers themselves just aren't easy to come by.

Goodyear Wrangler MT/Rs

The 1-inch-wider flares on the TJs are nice, especially if you live in a state where you aren't allowed to modify fenders or fender flares. The rocker protection is better than no protection, but if you use the Jeep as the T-case gearing demands, you'll destroy the factory rocker guards in short order.

At the end of the day, I guess it comes down to how much more money the seller (whether new or used) is asking for a Rubicon-edition Wrangler and what you are going to do with it. If you are going to put 35s or bigger on it and beat it, the odds are good that the factory axles won't live long anyway and you are really paying for the T-case. In that case you'd be better off in the long run saving the money up front and springing for axles that are built to handle the abuse you plan on dishing out. However, if you are going to run a 33-inch or smaller tire then I could in good conscience suggest a Rubicon to you, that is, if the 4:1 T-case won't crimp your off-road style too badly. Clear as mud? Yeah, me too.

 

Mr. Practicality: Hazel

As both the Technical Editor for Jp magazine and the guy who fields all the Your Jeep questions, I'm asked the Rubicon versus regular Wrangler question at least once a week. My answer always begins, "Well it depends on what you want to do with your Jeep." If you want big tires with beadlock wheels and plan on doing crazy rockcrawling and hardcore trail work, buy a regular Wrangler. If you buy a Rubicon you'll be throwing away good components you already paid a premium for. The same goes for if you just want a cool Jeep to cruise around town in and infrequently-if-ever plan on taking it off-road. Then you paid a lot of money for components you'll never get any use out of.

Let's run through a theoretical build for a rockcrawling TJ Rubicon on 37s. First, you'll want a 4- or 6-inch long-arm suspension. The Rubicon comes with a slip yoke eliminator on the rear of the NVG241OR T-case, but a taller, long-travel lift will necessitate upgrading to a longer rear shaft with more travel in the splines. Depending on the lift, you may also have to lengthen or upgrade the front shaft as well. The TJ Rubicon wheels are 16x8, so to run some decent tires you'll need to step into a 15- or 17-inch rim. There go your Rubicon wheels out the window. Your rocker armor will need upgrading because the factory diamond-plate rockers won't survive repeated and brutal bashings. The factory 4.10 gears won't cut it and the TJ Rubicon Dana 44 shafts will need to be bumped up with some aftermarket alloy parts. You just spent a ton of money to upgrade a set of Dana 44 axles with weak tubes and lockers that most likely won't survive long with 37-inch or larger tires.

Where a Rubicon does make sense is if you're looking for a multi-use vehicle that you can drive on the street and then hit moderately difficult trails with on the weekends. Again, using a TJ Rubicon as an example, you can toss in 2-inch coil spacers and longer shocks on the suspension, install a 1-inch body lift and a set of 1-inch-lift motor mounts, and have plenty of clearance for some 33-inch-diameter 285/75R16 tires mounted on the factory wheels. Add an upgraded steering linkage setup for strength, some off-road bumpers, and a winch, and you've got a vehicle you can take down virtually any popular trail in the country without spending a fortune on aftermarket parts or negatively affecting the on-road drivability. A similarly built regular Wrangler would require upgrading the T-case with a slip yoke eliminator, buying a CV rear driveshaft, swapping axle gears and adding lockers, and adding rocker armor.

Anti-Crawl Cappa

The Wrangler Rubicon is the most capable production vehicle ever offered. But a Rubicon only makes sense for someone who uses it mostly in the rocks or on other slow crawling trails. As both Hazel and Trasborg mentioned, some of the major features are a hindrance for other kinds of off-road use.

A new Wrangler Rubicon costs about $6,000 more than a similarly equipped Sport model. I'll admit that at that price all the Rubicon features are a bargain-if you keep and use them. However, it doesn't make a whole heck of a lot of sense to start chucking components like the Rubicon wheels and tires, 4.10 axle gears, and rocker guards when you start to modify your Jeep. And if you plan on installing tires that are larger than 35 inches and actually take it off-road, you're better off starting with a non-Rubicon. It will probably cost you less in the long run because those stock Rubicon axles won't hold up forever with 37-inch tires.

Personally I think that the non-Rubicons make better all-around 4x4s. The standard 2.72:1 low range ratio found in non-Rubicons is way better for sand, mud, snow, and general off-roading. The 4.1 transfer case found in the Rubicon is really only any good for rocks since the top speed in low range is only about 25 miles-per-hour.

For the same money as a Rubicon, I'd pick up a Sport, add a lift, 35-inch tires, wheel spacers, rocker guards, sway bar disconnects, and a rear locker. I'd still have about $3,000 left in my pocket and arguably a more versatile, generally more capable, and cooler-looking Jeep than a stock Rubicon.

News Source:  http://www.fourwheeler.com/project-vehicles/154-1105-jeep-wrangler-rubicon-vs-regular-wrangler/