Why 2015 is going to be a huge year for trucks

Four Reasons Pickups Are More Important Than Ever

Post courtesy of AutoBlog

Nissan chief executive Carlos Ghosn took center stage to introduce the 2016 Titan at theDetroit Auto Show. He spoke of the truck's new features, impressive Cummins V8 diesel engine and the extensive amount of time and money required to build a modern, competitive pickup truck.

"We have done all of this because we see opportunity – an opportunity in the unmet needs of today's American truck customers," Ghosn said.

He was speaking about the Titan, but his thoughts echo the industry's mindset: When it comes to trucks, find an opportunity and attack.

Even with CAFE regulations looming and fickle consumer preferences, investing in trucks is a no-brainer for automakers. Some consumers will always need a truck for their job or lifestyle. And some people will always want one, whether they need it or not.

With that in mind, here are four reasons why the pickup-truck sector is more important than ever and poised for growth in 2015.

The Nissan Titan Is Back

Okay, it never left, but the Titan hadn't been redesigned since its launch in 2003, and Nissan sold more NV200s than Titans in 2014. It's an understatement to say the truck was languishing. That all changes with the 2016 model.

The Titan will come in two variants, a traditional fullsize competitor and the Titan XD. The XD will lead the market launch, and it arrives late this year. It's pitched as a "whitespace" offering, Nissan sales and marketing vice president Fred Diaz said. The idea is to offer something in the general size and price range of a fullsize truck, but also have some of the capability of a heavy-duty truck. The XD uses a fully boxed ladder frame, the chassis design from Nissan's commercial division, and the wheelbase is about 20 inches longer than other Titan models.



The XD, which Nissan is calling the flagship of the line, will be the only model with the 5.0-liter Cummins turbodiesel V8. It produces 310 horsepower and 555 pound-feet of torque, while being able to tow 12,000 pounds. V6 and V8 gasoline models will also be offered on the Titan XD and the standard, non-XD model. When production ramps up, the Titan will be sold with several cabs, beds and trims. New features include trailer sway control, an integrated trailer brake controller, more storage options in the cabin and even laminated front and rear side glass to reduce outside noise. All of this has given Nissan fresh confidence in an area where it admittedly has been lacking.

"We can compete," Diaz told Autoblog. "It's been 12 years since we've updated this truck. It's a huge segment. Are we going to go dominate Ford, Chevy and Ram and just surpass them in sales? We are very reasonable about what our expectations are."

"But can we compete a helluva a lot better than we are right now? You darn betcha we can. Are we going to do well with this truck? In my opinion, my modest opinion, I think we will."

The Midsize Pickup Market Is Going To Explode

New products will fuel the resurgence of this overlooked segment. The Chevy Colorado and GMC Canyon will be on sale for the full year, and the 2016 Toyota Tacoma launches this fall.

The timing has been perfect. Gas prices are low – for the moment – and consumers have shown a willingness to consider midsize trucks as an alternative to crossovers or fullsize trucks.

"It fits the needs for a lot of people," said Bob Carter, Toyota's senior vice president of automotive operations.

While midsize trucks have been overlooked in recent years, they never disappeared. Tacoma sales slipped 2.8 percent to 155,041 units in 2014, but it still outsold the fullsize Tundra by 36,548 units. Meanwhile, Nissan Frontier sales leapt 18.3 percent to 74,323, nearly six times the number of Titans sold last year.

More Options, More Choices

Naturally, new products mean consumers will have more options when they consider their next truck purchase. But they will also have more features. The Colorado and Canyon will get 2.8-liter Duramax diesel four-cylinder engine variants this year. Rated at 181 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque, the diesel models offer a different dynamic for GM's midsizers.

At the opposite end of the spectrum, Ram will offer a Rebel variant this spring, which is marketed at truck buyers who clearly want to stand out. The Rebel's suspension is lifted an inch, rolls on 33-inch tires and the front has a blacked-out grille punctuated by piercing LED lights. It's designed for sporting enthusiasts, like dirt bikers, whose adventures take them off-road. It's not a Ford F-150 Raptor-fighter, and the Rebel will run with a choice of the Ram's usual 3.6-liter V6 or Hemi 5.7-liter V8 engines. The diesel V6 won't be offered. Ram, however, is enhancing the EcoDiesel line with an HFE version that nudges fuel economy up one mile per gallon and allows the Ram to get up to 29 mpg on the highway.

Meanwhile, Toyota already has two TRD variants, a TRD Sport and a TRD off-roader, planned for the 2016 Tacoma. They'll be offered this fall. Similarly, Chevy is considering another sporty off-road variant of the Colorado, and previewed a possible direction with the ZR2 concept at the Los Angeles Auto Show.

The Ford F-150 Hits Full Stride

Last year was a time of transition for the Ford F-150, and the new generation of the truck launched in November. It switched to an aluminum body, but Ford had to close factories to convert them to use the new material. That constrained dealers' inventory, and sales dropped 1.3 percent in 2014, though the F-150 remained the best-selling vehicle in America for the 33rd straight year, tallying 753,851 units.

This year, there are no changeovers in the factories. Ford has a full year to market and sell the F-150, which it's done better than any other truck maker since the Reagan era. In addition to aluminum, the new truck offers a retooled lineup of engines that includes the addition of a 2.7-liter EcoBoost making 325 hp and 375 lb-ft, offering up to 26 mpg on the highway, plus new safety, technology and design features. All of this seems to be working, as the F-150 spent an average of five days on dealer lots in December. It also kicked off 2015 by capturing North American Truck/Utility of the Year honors. Supported by ramped-up factories and a marketing blitz, the F-150 is poised for a strong showing in 2015. And don't forget, in 2016 there's a new Raptor on tap.

VW Golf Review

The VW Golf has been setting the family hatchback standard for forty years. Rivals such as the SEAT leon, Skoda Octavia and Ford Focus narrowly beat the VW for style, practicality and driving fun, but none can quite match the Golf’s blend of talents and upmarket image.

Now in its seventh generation, the evergreen Golf is better than ever. Underpinned by VW’s new lightweight MOB Chassis, the latest version is around 100kg lighter than its predecessor, yet also more refined and sharper to drive. It also comes packed with the sort of cutting edge kit that wouldn’t look out of place on an executive saloon.

Of course, the VW isn’t exactly cheap to buy when compared to the opposition, but if offsets its higher price tag with a high quality cabin, sophisticated driving experience and upmarket image.

The VW also boasts one of the best engine line-ups in the business, with everything from frugal TDI diesels through to the muscular 296bhp petrol used in the flagship R model.

The range starts with the entry-level S, which gets desirable kit such as Bluetooth phone connection, a DAB radio and air conditioning. Move up to the Match model and you benefit from adaptive cruise control and alloy wheels, while the racy GT adds sat-nav and parking sensors.

As ever, there’s an ultra-efficient Volkswagen Golf Blue Motion that combines a new 1.6-litre TDI diesel and slick six-speed gearbox to deliver CO2 emissions of just 85g/km and promised fuel returns of 88.3mpg. At the other end of the performance and efficiency spectrum is the range-topping Golf R, which packs a 296bhp 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine and a grippy four-wheel drive transmission.

However, for most keen drivers, the legendary Volkswagen Golf GTI delivers the best mix of performance, value and fun. Standard cars get 207bhp, but we’d recommend upgrading to the Performance Pack. This addition costs £995 and includes a 10bhp power boost, bigger front brakes and a clever electronically controlled front differential that boosts traction and reduces understeer.

For buyers wanting hot hatch looks but much cooler running costs there’s the GTD. Powered by a 181bhp 2.0-litre diesel, it promises 0-62mph in 7.5 seconds yet will return 67.3mpg at the pumps.

Finally, for buyers who love the latest in cutting edge kit there’s the electrice-Golf. Costing more to buy than Performance Pack GTI, it features a punchy 113bhp motor and a range of around 100 miles

Styling

There's no denying that the latest Volkswagen Golf can't quite match the Mazda 3  or the SEAT Leon for head-turning appeal. What the Golf may lack in the wow factor department, however, is made up in cool Teutonic understatement. 

The Golf manages to pull of the neat trick of looking both classless and classy. This seventh generation car may not appear overly different to the previous Mk6 Golf but changes under the skin are comprehensive and there are key visual tweaks outside too. For example, this latest incarnation of Volkswagen's hatchback now features a bold crease that's cut into the flanks, and this gives it a low, sportier stance.

However, it's the interior of the Golf that's really impressive. The wraparound dash looks a little plain, but look closer and you'll see Volkswagen has laid it out intuitively, putting it together using first-rate materials. Soft-touch plastics feature throughout, while eye-catching metal-effect trim covers the centre console.

Better still, the switchgear in the Golf operates with precision and the car’s low-slung driving position is one of the best in the business. It's also a pleasant surprise to find that the flat-looking seats are surprisingly supportive.

The Golf's understated looks aren't particularly helped by the entry-level Golf S having steel wheels and plastic rims. However, move slightly higher up the range and things get better quickly. The Match model is fitted with 16-inch alloy wheels, plus some tasteful chrome trim for the front grille and lower air intake.

To highlight their performance flagship status, the Volkswagen Golf GTD and GTI models feature bespoke bumpers and 18-inch alloy wheels. The stylish black tartan cloth seats and the golf ball gear knob on both manual and DSG automatic versions are also a nice nod to the hot Golf’s history.

The Volkswagen Golf R comes with 18-inch alloy wheels, too, but you can also opt for 18-inch rims. The Golf R gets a unique body kit, redesigned lights and quad exhausts.

Finally, the electric e-Golf is marked out by its flush fitting wheel trims and its distinctive ‘C’ shaped LED running lights that are set into the front bumper.

Driving

The Volkswagen Golf has always delivered high levels of comfort and refinement and it's good to know the latest Golf Mk7 is no exception.

Even at motorway speeds, the Golf features hardly any wind or road noise and it's almost ghost-like over bumps - it just glides over them. Progress can be made even more fluid by choosing the adaptive damping system as an option.

In addition to the effortless ride, Volkswagen has made the Golf engaging to drive. Drivers benefit from well weighted steering, a precise gearshift and strong brakes, while an electronic differential helps deliver sharp turn-in to corners and extra traction when exiting. Overall then, the Golf is always composed and inspires confidence in its driver.

Furthermore, Volkswagen fits all Golf models with more than 118bhp with a sophisticated multi-link rear axle to help improve handling – although in most situations that standard torsion beam set-up feels equally composed. 

Even better, the eco-friendly BlueMotion models now drive in exactly the same manner as other versions. This is thanks largely to the adoption of a six-speed manual gearbox in place of the old five-speed unit, plus the addition of a smoother and more powerful 1.6-litre TDI diesel.

In terms of gearboxes, both the manual and twin-clutch DSG are precise, and on the latter, there is also the option of steering wheel-mounted paddles. However, the seven-speed unit used on lower powered models in smoother than the six-speed version that’s optional on 2.0-litre TDI and 2.0-litre petrol models.

Reliability

The Volkswagen Golf Mk7 finished a strong 18th in our 2014 Driver Power customer satisfaction, while Volkswagen as a manufacturer finished 19th out of 33 manufacturers.

Overall, the Golf feels well built and it shares its chassis and other mechanicals with the SEAT Leon and Skoda Octavia meaning they're well proven.

Volkswagen has ensured that one area in which the Golf excels is safety. All cars get seven airbags, ESP and post-collision braking, while our SE adds a city safety kit. Extras such as lane-keep assist and an auto braking system are also available - no surprise then that the Volkswagen Golf achieved a five-star Euro NCAP crash test rating.

Practicality

If you’re looking for a significant flaw in the Golf’s make-up, you won’t find it in the practicality department. Once again, Volkswagen’s hatch ticks the important boxes in some style.

Rear passengers get plenty of head and legroom, while the wide, flat bench seat should take three people without too much of a squeeze. 

Elsewhere, Volkswagen has given the Golf lots of handy storage space, which includes a deep cubby under the front armrest between driver and front passenger, a large air-conditioned glove box and numerous cup-holders. Buyers also benefit from vast door bins that are flock-lined to stop their contents from rattling around noisily on the move.

As ever, the large VW boot badge doubles as the tailgate release and opening it reveals a well-shaped 380-litre boot. Better still, there’s a wide opening and low load lip, while below the adjustable height false boot floor is a handy hidden storage area.

Useful additions to the load space include a 12V power supply and a pair of bag hooks, plus there’s a ski-flap for longer items. If you need more room, you can liberate a generous 1,270 litres of capacity by folding the 60:40 rear bench.

Running Costs

Volkswagen has ensured that the Golf is very easy on the wallet - so much so that even the racy 2.0-litre GTI returns an impressive 47.1mpg with CO2 emissions of 139g/km from its petrol TSI engine.

If, however, properly frugal motoring is your thing, then it's worth looking at the Golf BlueMotion. Powered by a 1.6-litre diesel TDI engine, it returns 88.3mpg and emits 85g/km of CO2, meaning it beats the equivalent Ford Focus ECOnetic.

Our choice of engine for the Volkswagen Golf is the 2.0-litre TDI that produces 148g/km and returns an incredible 68.9mpg with 106g/km of CO2. Throw in the automatic DSG gearbox, and figures improve to 72.4mpg with CO2 emissions of 102g/km.
In addition to the 2.0-litre TSI engine found in the Golf GTI and Golf R, there are 1.2 and 1.4-litre TSI units that use the similar turbo charging technology.
The 1.2-litre power plant with 83bhp returns 57.3mpg with CO2 emissions of 113g/km, while the 105bhp variant puts out 114g/km and returns the same mpg. What's more, the 105bhp engine can be mated to the automatic DSG gearbox and when it is, it returns 56.5mpg with CO2 emissions of 115g/km.
The 1.4-litre unit has either 140 or 122bhp. When combined with the latter, it manages 53.3mpg as well as 123g/km of CO2. Again, when combined with the DSG transmission, this figure drops.
The Golf GTD is powered by a 185bhp 2.0-litre TDI diesel engine and it returns 67.3mpg - the 150bhp version of the same engine found on the Golf GT manages the same figures.
For the ultimate in low running costs, then look no further than the electric e-Golf. Powered by a 113bhp electric motor and boasting a range of around 100 miles, the battery-powered machine is a perfect commuting car and costs around £1 to charge from a mains socket. 
Of course, the e-Golf won’t fit in with all types of journey, and for longer trips you’ll be better off with the forthcoming Golf GTE range-extender. Using a combination of 1.4-litre turbocharged petrol engine and electric motor, the plug-in model blends a punchy 201bhp power output with 35g/km CO2 emissions, 188mpg and an electric range of around 30 miles.

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Toyota Mark X Review

If in doubt about which car to buy go for a Toyota, so the saying goes. The accuracy of this statement is debatable, however it does solve the problem of taking chances on an unknown brand and instead prompts one to settle for the tried and tested.

The advice might have been useful a few years ago when cars were rather basic with little technology in the form of advanced lighting, electronic stability control, and intelligent damping systems that judge the condition of the environment and compensate without the driver’s knowledge.
That question about which is the best car to buy has become a difficult one to answer as everyone has specific needs.

Toyota is very successful, thanks to clever positioning. It is an undisputed super-brand in many regions of the world, and justifiably so.
Is a budget Toyota  good for anyone looking for more than a car to move him from point A to B. Well, the proof of the pudding is in the eating.
My sweet tooth pointed me in the direction of a gorgeous white Toyota Mark X that wanted so badly to be a Mercedes Benz. Its owner even imported LED lights used in the current Mercedes E class.
Luckily, they blended into the curvaceous muscular lines that make the Mark X so desirable to the red-blooded testosterone junky. If you are prone to dismissing all Toyotas you may never enjoy the pleasure that this bewitchingly exquisite car delivers.
It does not have the expected thud of a luxury German automobile, but it certainly justifies consideration over brands like Volkswagen and Skoda. The engine in my example is a 2,497cc V6 that pleasingly supplies 204hp at 6400rpm.
The Mark X’s 4GR-FSE engine has 152kW and is able to churn out at least 260Nm of torque at 3,800 rpm. Those figures may impress, but what is the reality? How does the entire experience make one feel while behind the wheel?
As the car pulls away confidently and swerves between lanes like a graceful middle-aged ballerina, you can't help but smile with expectation. It is indeed a worthy replacement of the Mark II that, while a great car, now reminds me of a still-in-shape retired Olympic athlete. Admirable confidence and great on the open road.
Toyota’s success results from 75 years of engineering experience. The brakes are complaint and reassuring, which inspires one to push the pedal a little harder.
Let's put this in perspective. The 2008 Mercedes C 230 V6 with a 2496cc engine manages 150kW at 6100rpm. Its torque is 245Nm delivered between 2900-5500rpm with a top speed of just over 230kph. The Mark X manages 152kW and is able to churn out at least 260Nm of torque at 3,800 rpm. The other more exciting engine is the 3.0 (3GR-FS) that also does service in the handsome Toyota Royal Crown and the luxurious Lexus GS 300.
It manages 252bhp at 6200rpm, and with 314Nm of torque it goes like a bat out of hell. If you decide to go for this model, I suggest that you look for an all-wheel-drive model with a 3.0 litre engine.
If you must put the Subaru brigade in its place, settle for the super charged version with an improved D4D system and a 5-speed gearbox. While it shares engines with the Lexus and Crown models, it is built on a different platform.

The 2006 model comes with a redesigned grill treatment and indicators on the wing mirrors which earlier models did not enjoy. The interior of the Mark X, while not having the leather one would hope for, is refined and conservatively elegant.

The sound system, which can be controlled by the front-seat passenger from the door controls, delivers a concert hall effect.
Should you buy this car? Perhaps not, but the phrase ‘‘never say never’’ has never been more appropriate.