New Models Make 2006 a Banner Year for Trucks, SUVs and Crossovers

2006 Ford Explorer - A Midsize SUV Class Leader?

To

Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press

look at it quickly wouldn't expose all that Ford has done to improve its top-selling Explorer for 2006, despite a new grille and headlamps, fender treatment and modified taillight lenses. Inside it's an entirely new affair, much more stylish, with much improved plastics and trim, plus extra features like power folding third row seatbacks. Under the skin is an all-new fully-boxed, tube-through-tube frame and enhanced suspension components, plus a new standard 210-hp 4.0L V6 with 254 lb-ft of torque and optional 292-hp 4.6L V8 with 300 lb-ft of torque, the first mated to a 5-speed automatic and the latter featuring a best-in-class 6-speed automatic.

2006 Honda Ridgeline - Serious Performance Truck

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Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press

few years ago who would have thought that Honda would be building pickup trucks? Well, the Japanese giant is doing just that and its 2006 Ridgeline is an innovative trend-setter worthy of the stylized "H" brand in its rectangular grille. Interior accommodations, plus fit and finish are among the best in class, its ride and handling unparalleled and standard 255-hp 3.5L V6 fuel economy Honda thrifty. A nifty trunk hides a spare and luggage space under the cargo bed floor, while its flip-down or swing-out tailgate is also an industry first. Its 2,268 kg towing capacity is commendable and stability when hauling uncanny.

2006 Hummer H3 - A Fuel Efficient Hummer?

Answering

Photo: General Motors of Canada

critics who have come down harshly on the Hummer brand for poor fuel economy, GM has released the smaller, friendlier H3. Based on the Chevy/GMC Colorado/Canyon compact pickup line, the midsized Humvee delivers a fully featured cabin, commendable off-road capability and a more affordable sub-$40K price. Its 220-hp 3.5L inline 5-cylinder with 225 lb-ft of torque is smooth, and 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic robust, but reportedly it struggles to move the 2,132 kilo SUV quickly. Styling? Well, it's all sinew and muscle like every other Hummer. Most either love it or hate it, with few indifferent.