january-february

8 I n recent years, themidsize truckmarket has stepped up its game to show that size isn’t everything. From utilitarian functionality, off-road prowess, and nimble handling to uber-luxurious trim levels with less shocking of a sticker price, midsizers deliver just as much capability and reliability as their big siblings. Indeed, even towing and payload capacities have become competitive. These little guys have come a long ways... and so have the aftermarket products for these trucks. Consumers get all the features and benefits with less up-front cost, giving them a cushion to invest those extra dollars with you in aftermarket personalization. 2019 GMC Canyon Like its Chevy platform mate, the GMC Canyon sees only minor changes for 2019. But with a consistently comfortable ride, respectable towing abilities, and a robust V6, the model remains a solid and stable choice within the midsize truck market. The 2019 Canyon gains a new infotainment system and upgraded rear view camera, optional parking sensors, heated steering wheel and 6-way power adjustable seating features, boosted WiFi charging, and a new 17 inch wheel design. Engine options remain the same: a 2.5-liter inline-4, 3.6-liter V6, or a turbodiesel 2.8-liter inline-4 offering up 30 mpg highway driving and 7,700 pounds of towing capacity. In fact, the 2.8-liter Duramax, which was designed specifically for trucks, is also the cleanest diesel truck engine GM has ever produced. And even among the gasoline engine options, fuel economy ratings are at the top of the class. It’s true, the Canyon often gets criticized for simply being a Chevy in a sharper suit. And yes, it can be hard to make the argument for purchasing one over its very capable (and more affordable) bowtie-badged sibling. At the end of the day it comes down to preference, andGMC fans will appreciate the premium touches and efficient power of the Canyon, as well as the extra cachet and dose of exclusivity that comes with purchasing something a little further upmarket. 2019 Chevy Colorado +ZR2 While Chevy seems to be puttingmost of its eggs in the 2019 Silverado basket, the automaker has saved one or two for the Colorado. The popular midsize truck stays mostly unchanged for 2019, save for an upgraded infotainment system, HD Rear Vision Camera, Ultrasonic Rear Park Assist safety additions, and a few new colors and USB ports. However, amid all the champagne toasting and resolution making, a beefy new performance variant will arrive on scene—the ZR2 Bison. Alright, so a “bison” might not immediately draw your attention when compared to such highly-marketable names as Raptor, Trail Boss, Rebel, and Power Wagon, but don’t let the mental image of that slow-grazing bovine fool you. Originally realized as a concept truck for SEMA 2017 by Chevy and American Expedition Vehicles (AEV), the 2019 Colorado ZR2 Bison is expected to go on sale in early 2019. Expanding upon the ZR2’s already well-stocked list of off-road equipment, the Bison adds a 2.0” suspension lift, larger fender flares covering 17×8-inch aluminum wheels, a comprehensive skid plate package, a Chevrolet-lettered exclusive grille, and an optional snorkel. There are also new steel bumpers—the front accommodating that WARNwinch and fog lights, while the rear sports integrated recovery hooks. Altogether, this truck rolls in a little under $50K, adding about $6,000 to the standard ZR2 price and making it a worthy turnkey off-road contender that could appear on the market. If you’re looking for something big and bold to ring in the new year, this is it. Midsize Segment Steps Up Its Game