by L Baures | Apr 23, 2018 | Automotive News
Got outta Dodge with a top of the line 2019 RAM 1500.
2019 RAM 1500 Limited, Photo: RAM
A soon as I heard that Fremont Motors Fiat, Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, RAM in Casper, Wyoming had a 2019 RAM 1500 delivered I needed to check it out. It has been around 10 years since RAM Trucks (formerly Dodge) has redesigned the body for their half-ton pickup. In an ever competitive segment between truck brands in the industry, there’s a lot a stake when designing a completely new one.
In this video, I took Casey Grisham, a salesman from the store out for a drive to discuss some of the newest and coolest features.
It’s lighter, it’s more aerodynamic, towing capability is up and so is payload. This particular pickup that we drove is a ‘Limited’ spec which is the top level trim line. The engine in this one is the 5.7L HEMI not equipped with the eTorque system (they haven’t arrived yet). Also new on for the Limited spec trucks for 2019 is the removal of the saddle bags. Usually they would be on the back of the driver and passenger seat embellished with a buckle design. Some ornate stitching is still present though. I’m led to believe the saddle bags will still be in the Laramie Longhorn version, along with hand stamped wood branding.
The 2019 models are arriving in showrooms now and will sold alongside the 2018 model year RAM’s. Find out more details on the 2019 RAM 1500 in our earlier article, right here.
Want to see a video of a different vehicle? Let us know but sending a message or comment below.
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by L Baures | Apr 19, 2018 | Automotive News
Best fit for the Rocky Mountain lifestyle.
Dodge Durango SRT. Photo: L Baures
The Rocky Mountain Automotive Press Association has automotive journalists from all over the region including; Wyoming, Colorado, Idaho, Kansas, Nebraska, Montana.
Journalists assessed and critiqued several vehicles in this class to determine a winner. The unique driving conditions of the rocky mountain region were to be taken into consideration. For example, which vehicle would take on a ski trip with snow covered roads, or which one would drive over a high mountain pass in heavy rain during summer.
The 2018 Dodge Durango SRT takes the win for 2018
The award was presented at the 2018 Denver Auto Show by David Muramoto, President of the Rocky Mountain Press Association. Collecting the award was Steve Yandura, Business Centre Director for Fiat Chrysler Automobiles US.
“The depth of refinement, not to mention performance, of this latest SRT product, was impressive to RMAP voters”, said David Muramoto. “This powerful three-row SUV is a vehicle you’d enjoy driving to the mountains, or across the plains, at any time of the year in the Rocky Mountain region.”
2018 Durango SRT
The Durango SRT is currently the fastest 3rd-row vehicle on the market. With 475 hp from the V8 Hemi, the crossover achieves the 1/4 miles in 12.9 seconds! It is also capable of towing up to 8,700 lbs (best in class). Owners also get a free day of driving at the Bob Bondurant School of High Performance Driving.
A muscle car that’s also a family vehicle and extremely practical. To some, it may appear like a ‘sleeper’. The exhaust note in ‘Sport’ or ‘Track’ mode will soon give it away. Don’t worry though, if your kids are in the back and you worried about them being deafened by the exhaust? Dodge fixed that problem. The engineers worked hard on noise cancellation within the vehicle. One of the reasons it may just be a great vehicle also for the rocky mountain region is the ‘snow’ mode. Yes, that right, you CAN have all that power, all those seats, AWD and a mode for driving in snow.
To find out more about the Dodge Durango SRT and read about when we tested it. Click here, or contact your preferred Dodge dealership.
by L Baures | Apr 17, 2018 | Automotive News
What is Apple CarPlay?
Apple CarPlay in the 2019 Toyota Corolla Hatchback
CarPlay is software that was introduced by Apple in 2014. It enables easy integration of a smartphone in a vehicle. Apps such as navigation, music, phone and messaging are displayed on the vehicles center console screen. This means for vehicles that don’t have navigation software already built into the car, smartphone navigation can now be used. Text messaging can be done through voice commands and Pandora can also be used via the touch screen or voice commands.
Why is it a big deal for Toyota?
Toyota are one of the last manufacturers (but not the only one) to integrate Apple CarPlay in to their vehicles. CarPlay has been out for almost 4 years now, but Toyota insisted on sticking with their own version of propriety software (Entune or Enform).
Toyota announced this year that some vehicles WILL get Apple CarPlay, not wireless and not Android Auto compatible (the Google version for Android lovers). At least it’s a start though right?
Denver Auto Show 2018
Which vehicles will get Apple CarPlay?
2019 Toyota Avalon
The Toyota Avalon is a full size sedan. It will be an all new design for 2019 and it get’s Apple CarPlay as standard on all trim levels. Other technology included will be; WiFi hotspot, Qi Wireless charging, Toyota Remote Connect with Smartwatch, and Amazon Alexa Connectivity. The luxury sedan offered by Toyota, will go on sale in late Spring of 2018.
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2019 Toyota Avalon Touring. Photo: Toyota
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Quick facts about the 2019 Toyota Avalon:
- It’s a full size sedan
- FWD
- 3.5 liter V-6 with 8-speed auto transmission or;
- Hybrid (Toyota Hybrid System II)
- Dynamic Auxiliary Turn Signals (lights where individual diodes light up one at a time, and one after the other, to create a sequential signal)
- Toyota Safety Sense P (TSS-P)
- Adaptive Variable Suspension
2019 Toyota RAV4
Also a new design for 2019, the RAV4 is an AWD compact SUV, that will also have Apple CarPlay as standard.
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2019 Toyota RAV4 Photo: Toyota
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2019 Toyota RAV4 Photo: Toyota
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2019 Toyota RAV4 Photo: Toyota
Quick facts about the 2019 Toyota RAV4
- AWD Compact SUV (seats 5)
- 2.5 liter VVT-iE engine or 2.5 liter with an 8-speed transmission or;
- Toyota Hybrid System II with E-CVT (Electronically-Controlled Continuously-Variable Transmission)
- Wheelbase is slightly longer than the previous model (by 1.2″)
- Amazon Alexa compatibility
- Multi-terrain select for off-road capability
- Dynamic Torque Vectoring with Rear Driveline Disconnect
RAV4 Hybrid Review, WY to SD on Half a Tank.
2019 Toyota Corolla Hatchback
Toyota’s quoted in a March 28th press release about the 19 Corolla hatchback, “Other standout features include standard TSS 2.0, a lightweight composite hatch, Entune 3.0 with WiFi Hotspot, Apple CarPlay and Toyota Remote Connect with Smartwatch and Amazon Alexa Connectivity. An Adaptive Front Lighting System and Qi Wireless Charging are also available”
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Apple CarPlay in the 2019 Toyota Corolla Hatchback
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Toyota Corolla Hatch 2019 Photo: Toyota
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2019 Toyota Corolla hatchback. Photo: Toyota
2019 Toyota Corolla Quick facts;
- All new TNGA (Toyota New Global Architecture) powertrain and platform
- 2.0 liter 4 cylinder engine (168 hp, 151 lb-ft torque)
- CVT transmission with ‘launch gear’
- Available sport-tuned suspension
- Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 (inc new tech such as road sign assist and lane tracing assist to keep vehicle centered within the lane)
- Available 6-speed manual transmission with rev matching
For more information on anything Toyota, send us a message, or contact your preferred Toyota dealership.
Toyota Sheridan, Toyota Lander.
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by L Baures | Apr 17, 2018 | Trusted Auto Pros
Pros and Cons of bigger wheels.
Photo: Erik Drost [Flickr]
There are definitely some pros and some cons to putting larger wheels on your vehicle. On a car, for instance, base models will likely come standard with a smaller wheel size such as 16″ rims. When ordering the car from new, the manufacturer will have options to upgrade the rims. Most manufacturers don’t recommend going over 1-2 ” more than the original wheel size (for cars). Check your owners manual for your specific vehicle to be sure. This is due to the space available under the arches. Whilst the bigger rims will look much nicer filling the arches, there still has to be room for the suspension to work. Going over bumps, a ‘washboardy’ dirt road or potholes causes your suspension to move up and down, absorbing the impact. If your wheels are way too big they might hit the inside of your wheel arch.
Weight
This is also true for turning, there is only so much space in that wheel arch, and when you turn on full lock with rims that are too big, they’ll rub. Another factor to consider when larger rims, is that they will be heavier, therefore putting more strain on other components. This is assuming you go from an alloy wheel to bigger alloy wheel. Going from a steel wheel to an alloy wheel will reduce the weight. There are ways around this though. like fitting lightweight (forged or magnesium) rims and adding stiffer suspension, however, this may affect your warranty so check with your dealer first.
Changing wheel size means changing tire size
No they don’t really glow blue, but this highlights what a low profile tire looks like.
When you add larger rims, you will need different sized tires. The tire will need to be shorter in height (aspect ratio) to compensate for space, and to keep the overall diameter the same. To figure out which tire size you’d need for 1″ bigger rims, check out this tire size calculator. Your local dealership parts dept will also be able to tell you. Not having the correct diameter (overall rolling radius) will cause the speedometer to show incorrect readings. Something to also consider is that bigger tires are usually more expensive.
Handling
Challenger Hellcat Widebody comes with bigger lightweight wheels (20×11) vs the standard 18’s that come on a Challenger SXT. Photo: FCA
Assuming you’ve gone 1 or 2″ bigger than the original size, you’re tires are now going to be lower profile tires. This will increase handling performance for spirited driving and cornering. This means that you will most likely experience a bumpier ride. It also means that there is less ‘give’ in the tire. For sportier driving, you won’t get much play in the tire after max grip before it begins to lose complete traction (and you’ll be on a snappy merry go round ride). If your wheel and tire package ends up being heavier, this will affect acceleration and fuel economy. Acceleration will be less and so will fuel economy. Steering may also become heavier.
What about wider wheels?
Again, you’ll have to check your owners manual for your specific vehicle or your contact your dealership to find out if you can add wider wheels. Wider wheels mean wider tires which mean extra grip. However, again this could be a case of extra weight (unless you get lightweight rims) and extra strain on your vehicle. Go too wide and wheel bearings will not be happy!
Summary checklist if you’re upsizing rims
- Stay within the manufacturer recommended size increase (1-2″) so if you have 16″ rims, don’t go bigger than 18″.
- Make sure there’s enough clearance in the wheel arches to turn full lock (both ways) and go over bumps.
- If you go wider and they are protruding out the side of the arches, they are probably too big.
- Check tire prices on your new tire size.
- Go lightweight (if you can).
What about pickup trucks and Jeeps?
It’s a little different for pickup trucks and Jeep Wrangler’s because typically you’re not trying to fill the arches for looks (although I’m sure people do it). Generally these types of vehicles want to improve ground clearance for off-roading and extra grip in the mud/snow. Maybe even extra super-duper grip for rock crawling. This is usually achieved by bigger chunkier tires and maybe a lift kit, not necessarily just the rim size. For more information on outfitting a Jeep with bigger rims and tires, check here or contact Justin Sandback at Fremont Motors Jeep in Casper, Wyoming. Just specializing in building custom Jeeps.
by L Baures | Apr 16, 2018 | Trusted Auto Pros
Wyoming
Wyoming, the Cowboy State, is a western rocky mountain state made up mostly of Pronghorn, Prairie’s and Peaks. The state has a high mean elevation with around 14 mountain peaks reaching over 12,000 ft. Popular activities in include; Hiking, hunting, fishing, floating, ranches, rodeo, skiing, sledding, camping, and canyons are just a few. Get a glimpse of some Wyoming lifestyle by searching for #thatsWY.
It can snow from Oct to April but get over 100°F in the summer.
The Cowboy State is home to the Grand Tetons, Yellowstone National Park, Devils Tower Monument, and…
Dirt roads. Lot’s of dirt roads.
Given that ranching, agriculture, and mineral extraction are big parts of the economy in WY, along with steep mountain passes, extreme weather fluctuations, and dirt roads, this is a lot to ask from a vehicle. What are the top 10 most popular vehicles in Wyoming?
Top 10 most popular vehicles in WY
10th place: Jeep Cherokee
The Jeep Cherokee is a compact crossover SUV that has over 8″ of ground clearance and is 4WD. The Trailhawk (off-road edition) has, even more, ground clearance paired with ‘Active Drive II‘. The 2019 Trailhawk models have a 29.9° approach angle, 22.9° breakover angle and a 32.2° departure angle. These attributes make this Jeep a capable off-road vehicle, with the comfort of an everyday driver. The 3.2L V-6 is EPA rated at 27 mpg on the highway. The 2.4L gets an estimated 25 mpg on the highway. 2019 Jeep Cherokee’s are on dealer lot’s and start at $26,190 MSRP for the 4×4 models.
Features now available on the Cherokee include Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop and Go. Parallel and perpendicular park assist, lane assist and multitude of other safety features. Rain-sensing wipers, LED Lights, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Alexa compatibility pack this car with technology.
10th most popular is the Jeep Cherokee. Photo: FCA
9th place: Jeep Renegade
Another vehicle from Jeep coming as the 9th most popular vehicle in Wyoming. The Renegade is a subcompact crossover SUV available with 4WD. It also has drive modes such as, ‘Sand, ‘Snow’, and ‘Rock’. Equipped with the 2.4L engine, the 4×4 Renegade is EPA rated at 29 mpg on the highway, 21 mpg in the city and 24 mpg combined. The Renegade starts at $19,995 MSRP for the 4×4 Sport model.
No. 9 in the Jeep Renegade. Photo: FCA
8th place: Subaru Outback
Originally the Outback was a station wagon that came from the “Legacy’ model. It has been around since 1989 and features symmetrical AWD. In the U.S. the gas version has either a 2.5L 4 cylinder engine or a 3.6L 6 cylinder engine. It seats 5 people and the 2.5L fuel economy is estimated at 32 mpg on the highway, 25 mpg in the city and 28 mpg combined. The Outback has 8.7″ of ground clearance.
No. 8 is Subaru Outback. Photo: Subaru
7th place: RAM 3500
The economy in Wyoming is mainly built around coal, oil, natural gas, tourism, and agriculture. Most of these trades require the ability to move heavy equipment, and possibly over rough terrain. This requires a big pickup. Coming in 7th place it’s the RAM 3500 pickup truck. For example, the 2017 RAM 3500 SRW Crew Cab Tradesman with the 6.7L Cummins turbo-diesel engine, 4×4, 4.10 rear axle with an 8′ bed can tow up to 30,320 lbs. Payload is 5,690 lbs. RAM Trucks recently added insanely luxurious trim levels to the heavy-duty trucks, including the Tungsten edition.
No. 7 is the RAM 3500. Photo: FCA
6th place: Ford F-350
Another heavy-duty truck makes the top 10 list of most popular vehicles in Wyoming. in 2017, Ford announced that some heavy-duty trucks could now reach around $100,000 in cost. Ford pickup trucks feature aluminum bodies. The Ford Superduty is also 2017 Motor Trend truck of the year. The F-350 comes with the option of a 6.7L V8 Powerstroke diesel, or 6.2L V8 gas. The Powerstroke diesel puts out an impressive 925 lb-ft of torque.
No. 6 is the Ford F-350. Photo: Ford
5th place: Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD
If you’re starting to wonder if Wyoming might be truck country, you’d be right. Next on the list of most popular vehicles in Wyoming is the Chevrolet Silverado 2500. Around 2014, Chevy trucks saw a radical body change going back to the boxy shape. In 2017, an aggressive powerful looking hood scoop was added to the diesel models. Engine choices on the Silverado 250 include the well renowned Duramax 6.6L turbo diesel and the Vortec 6.0L gas engine.
No. 5 is the Chevrolet Silverado 2500. Photo: Chevrolet
4th place: RAM 2500
Surprise! It’s another truck.This time it’s the three-quarter ton RAM. Aside from the regular truck, the RAM 2500 has a couple of unique models including the Power Wagon off-road truck that has the 6.4L Hemi gas engine, factory lift, disconnecting sway bars, and front and rear lockers. Another unique 2500 in the RAM line up is the MegaCab, offering tons of extra room in the cab.
No. 4 is the RAM 2500. Photo: FCA
3rd place: Chevrolet Silverado 1500
Coming in the 3rd popular vehicle in Wyoming, the Chevy Silverado 1500. Paired with the 5.3L gas engine and 4WD, fuel economy is around 22 mpg on the highway. The 6.2L offered by Chevrolet is one of the most powerful engines available on a light-duty pickup putting out 420hp and 460 lb-ft of torque. An all-new Silverado 1500 will be debuting showrooms late 2018. It’ll be wider and longer giving it, ‘best in class cargo box volume‘.
No. 3 is the Chevrolet Silverado 1500. Photo: Chevrolet
2nd place: RAM 1500
You guessed it. It’s a pickup truck. Coming in as the 2nd most popular vehicle in Wyoming, the RAM 1500. The lineup of 1500’s from RAM has 9 different trim levels offering something for everyone. From the Tradesman work truck to the Sport, the off-road Rebel or the super luxurious Limited. The Greater Atlanta Automotive Media Association named the RAM 1500, ‘Family Truck of The Year’ for 2017. Class-exclusive RAM Boxes and 4 corner air suspension are options on some of the RAM 1500’s. The 3.0L EcoDiesel gets an EPA estimated fuel economy rating of 27 mpg on the highway. The RAM 1500 has been long overdue a redesign, but the all-new 2019’s are arriving in showrooms as we speak.
No. 2 is the RAM 1500 Photo: FCA
1st place: Ford F-150
If you’ve read thus far, you’ve probably noticed pickup trucks are a wee bit popular in Wyoming. Most Wyomingites could have guessed this or the 2nd place RAM 1500 are in fact the most popular vehicles in the state. It is the Ford F-150 that takes the win on this one though. In 2015, Ford introduced the aluminum body, to aid in weight reduction. It’s the MotorTrend ‘Truck of the Year’ for 2018, and ‘Most Innovative Truck of the Year for 2018’ award from Edmunds. The F-150’s latest redesign is the 2018 model year with a diesel engine option coming spring 2018.
The Ford F-150 is the most popular vehicle in Wyoming Photo: Ford
What do all these vehicles have in common?
Aside from the fact most of them are pickup trucks, every single vehicle has a 4×4, 4WD function or is AWD. It’s clear that,
Wyomingites demand not only a four-wheel drive/ all wheel drive product, they want vehicles that are capable of much more and can get the job done.
Whilst the Ford F-150 came out number one, RAM Trucks is the only manufacturer to have three (1500/2500/3500) trucks in the top 10. Surprisingly, the Ford F-250 did not make it on the list, but it’s a very close no.11, followed by the Jeep Grand Cherokee and then GMC heavy-duty pickup trucks.
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Data generated from 2017 Wyoming dealer reported sales.
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