2018 Nissan Titan
It’s been just a little over a year since the new Nissan Titan rolled out, and about two for the Titan XD. I’ve personally sung their praises countless times since their release, but the excitement is already dying down. Despite being the sexiest truck (in my opinion), being incredibly capable, and utilizing innovation and technology in unique ways, the Nissan Titan still struggles to be mainstream.
Nonetheless, the 2018 Nissan Titan is going to be impressive. It will reflect the 2017 model year almost exactly – perhaps a color palette update or a feature addition. That’s all right, because it’s loved for the premium leather and wood used inside, the monster sunroof, available heated and cooled seats and steering wheel, decadent leather, and stunning looks.
2018 Chevrolet Colorado
Like its big brother, the Silverado, the Chevrolet Colorado gets a Centennial Edition to celebrate Chevy’s 100 years of trucks. It’ll get a Centennial Blue paint job, heritage bow tie emblems, a spray-in box liner with heritage bow ties, and a few other things. I’m sure it will be fine, but that’s not why we love the Colorado for 2018.
It’s the same reason we love the 2017 model year Colorado, the diesel engine. It just makes sense for this little pickup. The 2.8-liter Duramax diesel engine gets the best fuel efficiency and has phenomenal torque for its size. That’s why it can tow up to 7,700 pounds, almost as much as a full-size truck.
Just whatever you do, don’t select the base or WT trim. You’ll be sorely disappointed by its lack of refinement inside. Go with the ZR2 package for a great offroad-based midsize pickup, but the Z71 and LT trims will do fine also.
2018 Honda Ridgeline
When it comes to new trucks, I’m almost tired of talking about the Ridgeline, but it demands attention. I suppose that means it’s earned its place, right? The new design carries into 2018 with the classic pickup truck look mated to an SUV cabin. But Honda realized that 11 trims and configurations was too much, scaling it down to nine for the 2018 model year.
Aside from adding two color choices to the Sport trim, the Ridgeline stays the same. It’s worth mentioning its unique aspects and key points though. They include the dual-action tailgate, the in-bed trunk (lockable, by the way), in-bed audio system, and built-in power inverter. That’s just the box. Inside, there’s an 8-inch Display Audio infotainment system, available leather, sunroof, and an onslaught of Honda’s driver-assistive technologies.
The 2018 Honda Ridgeline is rated at 5,000 pounds for towing and 1,584 pounds for payload. I’m not sure who tested it, but its unibody design feels much too soft and squishy to try those numbers out.
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