DODGE
Dodge has rolled out the completely redesigned Sprinter van and cab-chassis light trucks as 2007 models. The OEM said the newest version of the Sprinter, which was introduced earlier in Europe by parent DaimlerChrysler, is “super sized,” measuring wider, higher and longer than the previous model sold here. It features an all-new V6 diesel as well as an optional V6 gasoline engine for the first time, has a higher maximum gross weight rating and boasts significant new active safety systems added as standard equipment. The new '07 Dodge Sprinter goes on sale in North America this year and will also be offered as a Freightliner model.
Changes for the new Sprinter start with the body, which now features a pronounced hood and more streamlined profile, moving away from the original Sprinter's boxier sheet metal. Two inches wider than the previous model, the 2007 version will be available in three lengths — 233, 273 and 289 in.; two wheelbases — 144 and 170 in.; and three roof heights, including a new 84-in. high “Mega” option
The roll-open side door, which can be spec'd on either side of the body, is now wide enough to handle a standard pallet and the rear doors open a full 270 degrees. Maximum cargo capacity for the 2007 Sprinter goes up to 600 cu. ft. and GVW ratings are offered up to 11,030 lb. for both van and cab-chassis versions.
The truck's new 3.0L V6 turbodiesel produces 154 hp. and peak torque of 280 lb.-ft. It's fitted with a diesel particulate filter to meet 2007 U.S. emissions requirements, but retains the previous model's 10,000-mi. oil change intervals and 30,000-mi. PM schedule, according to Dodge. Available only in the U.S., the new gasoline engine option is a 3.5L V6 rated at 254 hp. and 250 lb.-ft. peak torque. Both engines are mated to a 5-sp. automatic transmission.
The '07 Sprinter is the first commercial light truck to feature DaimlerChrysler's new adaptive electronic stability program (ESP), which compensates automatically for changes in vehicle payload. ESP is integrated with a variety of new safety-related electronic and suspension systems, including roll-over mitigation, skid control, ABS, electronic brake distribution and emergency brake assist, all standard.
Other new Sprinter features of note include 16-in. wheels, high-density halogen headlamps with cornering lights, park assist with both front and rear bumper sensors, power windows and mirrors, and automatic rain and light sensors to control the windshield wipers and headlights.
Refreshed for the '08 model year, the mid-size Dodge Dakota pickup now offers new interior and exterior styling, a bigger cab and longer bed, more towing capacity and more power, thanks to a new 4.7L V-8 engine producing 290 hp. (25% more than its previous engine offering) and 320 lb.-ft. of torque (a 10% increase). The new Dakota will be available starting next month.
No major changes have been announced for the Class 1-2 Dodge Ram 2500 pickup. It carries a GVW rating of 8,800 lb. and maximum payload capacity of 3130 lb. It is powered by the 5.7L Hemi V8 mated to a standard 6-sp. manual transmission. Power options include choice of the Cummins 5.9L HO or 6.7L turbodiesel. Automatic transmissions available are a 4-, a 6- and a 5-sp. high-performance overdrive unit. www.dodge.com
FORD
The biggest changes for Ford's 2008 model year light trucks are largely reserved for its E-Series vans, available as the E-150 (regular length), E-250 and E-350 (regular and extended length).
A new front-end design inspired by the F-Series Super Duty helps improve engine capability by increasing airflow, while an all-new exclusive E-Guard Cargo Protection System adds a double-lock design to beef up cargo security, an option straight from the factory.
This E-Guard design can only be unlocked from outside the vehicle using the key. For example, on vehicles with power lock systems, the key fob or interior switch can be used to lock all doors and double-lock the side and rear cargo doors. While the key fob will unlock the front doors, the cargo doors can only be unlocked with the key.
All models feature a new, steel-reinforced license plate bucket. The E-Guard system installs in the steel bucket for added security, while the lock itself has been re-enforced with a steel flange.
Other improvements include a redesigned steering system, plus changes to the front and rear suspensions that boost driving dynamics and braking performance. AdvanceTrac with roll stability control (RSC) is now standard on E-350 passenger wagons equipped with the 5.4L V-8 engine.
Load-carrying capacity for the 2008 E-Series has been increased, with GVWR now 14,500 lb. Standard side doors are 60/40 swing-out, with a sliding cargo door a no-cost option. Passenger wagons feature all-new seats.
Rear cargo space is 236.5 cu. ft. for standard models and 275.1 cu. ft. for extended versions. The cargo area features a double-wall design that leaves the exterior sheet metal less vulnerable to damage from shifting cargo.
For Ford's F-150 pickup line, a wide variety of body configurations remain available for the 2008 model year, including three cab choices, three box lengths, two box styles and five unique series. New options, features and equipment include a tire pressure monitoring system, enhanced seats, new factory-installed accessories and new colors. The F-150 also offers a modular overhead rail system that allows owners to customize interior storage options.
Maximum tow rating is 10,500 lb. when properly equipped; maximum payload capacity is 3,050 lb.
www.ford.com
FREIGHTLINER
Freightliner Trucks is offering the completely redesigned Sprinter van and cab-chassis light trucks. The OEM said the newest version of the Sprinter, which was introduced earlier in Europe by parent DaimlerChrysler, is “super sized,” measuring wider, higher and longer than the previous model sold here. It features an all-new V6 diesel, as well as an optional V6 gasoline engine for the first time, has a higher maximum GVWR and boasts significant new active safety systems added as standard equipment. The new '07 Freightliner Sprinter will also be offered as a Dodge model.
Changes for the new Sprinter start with the body, which now features a pronounced hood and more streamlined profile, moving away from the original Sprinter's boxier sheet metal. Two inches wider than the previous model, the 2007 version will be available in three lengths — 233, 273 and 289 in.; two wheelbases — 144 and 170 in.; and three roof heights, including a new 84-in. high “Mega” option
The roll-open side door, which can be spec'd on either side of the body, is now wide enough to handle a standard pallet and the rear doors open a full 270 degrees. Maximum cargo capacity for the 2007 Sprinter goes up to 600 cu. ft. and GVW ratings are offered up to 11,030 lb. for both van and cab-chassis versions.
The truck's new 3.0L V6 turbodiesel produces 154 hp. and peak torque of 280 lb.-ft. It's fitted with a diesel particulate filter to meet 2007 U.S. emissions requirements, but retains the previous model's 10,000-mi. oil change intervals and 30,000-mi. PM schedule. Available only in the U.S., the new gasoline engine option is a 3.5L V6 rated at 254 hp. and 250 lb.-ft. peak torque. Both engines are mated to a 5-sp. automatic transmission.
The '07 Sprinter is the first commercial light truck to feature DaimlerChrysler's new adaptive electronic stability program (ESP), which compensates automatically for changes in vehicle payload. ESP is integrated with a variety of new safety-related electronic and suspension systems, including roll-over mitigation, skid control, ABS, electronic brake distribution and emergency brake assist, all standard.
Other new Sprinter features of note include 16-in. wheels, high-density halogen headlamps with cornering lights, park assist with both front and rear bumper sensors, and automatic rain and light sensors to control the windshield wipers and headlights.
www.freightliner.com
GENERAL MOTORS
The upgrades continue for General Motors' line of light-duty vans and pickups, with a focus on safety and performance improvements. The GMC Savana and Chevrolet Express vans now come standard with StabiliTrak on all one-ton passenger models to improve vehicle stability and handling. AWD and the OnStar safety and security system are optional.
The versatility of these trucks, which can serve as both cargo vans and passenger haulers able to accommodate up to 15 people, gets beefed up with the addition of a standard Vortec 5.3L V-8 that delivers 295 hp. and 335 lb.-ft. of torque. The Vortec 5.3L is the standard engine in G1500 and H1500 passenger models, and in H1500 cargo and conversion models. It's also available with the Duramax 6.6L turbo-diesel V-8 that delivers 250 hp. and 460 lb.-ft. of torque, as well as a FlexFuel E85 version of the Vortec 5.3L.
On the pickup side, the Chevrolet Silverado and its GMC Sierra counterpart both offer a new platform that supports a smoother ride and better handling with more power and improved fuel economy. Six powerful, Gen IV small-block V-8 engines complement the stronger chassis to deliver towing capacity of 10,500 lb., 367 hp. and maximum payload capacity of 2,160 lb.
Both the Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra are offered in three cab styles: regular, extended and crew cab. Cargo box lengths are short (5 ft., 8in.), standard (6 ft., 6 in.), and long (8 ft.). Both pickups are available in 2WD and 4WD.
The Sierra is also available in a premium specification, the Denali, with exclusive features such as 6.2L all-aluminum V-8 engine with variable valve timing, and a new 6-sp. automatic transmission. It is available in 2WD and 4WD crew cab models. www.gm.com
HONDA
The half-ton unibody Ridgeline pickup from Honda continues relatively unchanged into the 2008 model year, carrying over a new full independent four-wheel suspension and in-bed truck, introduced during the 2007 model year.
The Ridgeline now also comes with what Honda calls a “value-oriented” RTX trim level that includes a standard trailer hitch. Also standard next year for all Ridgeline models, which includes the RT, RTX, RTS and RTL, are a driver side illuminated vanity mirror and four new exterior colors.
Standard engineering for all Ridgeline models includes a 247-hp., 3.5-L VTEC V6 engine; 5-sp. electronically controlled automatic transmission; advanced Variable Torque Management four-wheel drive system; 5-ft. cargo bed.
Standard comfort and convenience features include air conditioning; tilt steering wheel; power windows and door locks, power sliding rear window; cruise control; keyless entry; automatic heated wiper zone; and 60/40 split lift-up rear seat with underseat storage.
All models also come equipped with transmission and oil coolers, heavy duty brakes, dual radiator fans, an exclusive fresh air intake system for improved towing performance in hot weather conditions and pre-wiring for 4- and 7-pin trailer hook up.
The following safety features are standard: ABS with Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) with traction control; brake assist; advanced dual-stage, dual-threshold driver and front passenger airbags; driver and front passenger side airbags; two-row side curtain airbags with rollover sensor and a tire pressure monitoring system.
www.honda.com
NISSAN
Nissan's Titan full-size pickup is getting some major upgrades for the 2008 model year, including the addition of new Titan Long Wheelbase (LWB) King Cab and Crew Cab models, plus a new PRO-4X grade, which is available in both King Cab and Crew Cab 4WD standard bed configurations.
In all, the 2008 Titan will be offered in four models (XE, SE, PRO-4X and LE), two body styles (King Cab and Crew Cab) in both 4×2 and 4×4 drive configurations, and four bed size options (5 ft. 5 in., 6 ft. 5 in., 7 ft. and 8 ft.). The 2008 Titan is also available with Flexible Fuel Vehicle (FFV) capability so it can operate on E85 Ethanol.
On the styling front, Titan is getting a revised front end and all-new wheel styles. Inside, it features a new seat design and refined meter cluster, with an optional Bluetooth hands-free phone system, XM Satellite Radio tuner, heated leather-appointed bench seat, a revised center stack and a larger, 8-in. DVD screen (up from 7-in. in the previous models).
More importantly for working fleets, however, is the 2008 Titan's redesigned brake system, with larger front rotors, and optional larger standard wheel sizes, including 20-in. alloy wheels on Titan LE models.
The Titan is built on Nissan's F-Alpha pickup platform, featuring a powerful 5.6-L DOHC Endurance V8 rated at 317 hp. and 385 lb.-ft. torque mated to a standard 5-sp. automatic transmission, giving the truck a maximum towing capacity of up to 9,500 lb. for King Cab and 9,400 lb. for Crew Cab, when properly equipped.
www.nissan-usa.com
TOYOTA
The big news from Toyota is its beefed up Tundra pickup, with a new four-door CrewMax full-size option, as well as the Regular Cab and Double Cab versions.
Larger in every dimension, the new Tundra is available in 31 model configurations, with a choice of 4×2 and 4×4 drivetrains, three cab styles, three wheelbases, three bed lengths, three engines and three trim levels.
Powering the Tundra is a 381-hp. 5.7L i-Force V8 engine teamed to a new 6-sp. automatic transmission.
Technological upgrades include Bluetooth cellphone compatibility, high-end audio and an optional navigation system that includes a wide-screen rear backup camera.
The Tow Package for units equipped with V8 engines boosts capacity significantly, up to 10,800 lb., depending on the model and drivetrain. It is standard on the Double Cab long beds and optional on all other models.
In Regular and Double Cab models, a standard 4.0L V6 produces 236 hp. at 5,200 rpm and 266 lb.-ft. of peak torque at 4,000 rpm. The mid-grade option for these models — and standard for the CrewMax — is an enhanced version of the 4.7L i-Force V8 producing 271 hp. at 5,400 rpm and 313 lb.-ft. of peak torque at 3,400 rpm.
Tundra models equipped with the 4.0L engine will have city/highway fuel economy ratings of 17/20 mpg; those with the 4.7L engine will have city/highway fuel economy ratings of 15/18 mpg.
Both the V6 and the i-Force 4.7 V8 feature DOHC 4-valve cylinder heads and Variable Valve Timing; they are teamed with a 5-sp. automatic transmission. An updated flex lock-up torque converter control enhances transmission response and efficiency. For added driver control, the transmission features an uphill-downhill “shift logic” function; all Tundras have sequential shift as standard equipment.
The all-new 5.7 Liter i-Force V8, now available in every Tundra model configuration, offers 381 hp. at 5,600 rpm and 401 lb.-ft of peak torque at 3,600 rpm. Tundra models equipped with the 5.7L engine will have city/highway fuel economy ratings of 16/20 mpg (4×2) and 14/18 mpg (4×4).
www.toyota.com
