The Latest Truck Models of 2006: A Comprehensive Review

May 23
00:37

2024

Debbie Pettitt

Debbie Pettitt

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The 2006 truck lineup has introduced a range of new models, from compact to colossal, including the Isuzu i-280 and i-350, Mitsubishi Raider, Honda Ridgeline, and the Dodge Ram Mega Cab. Additionally, two limited-edition models, the Chevy Silverado Intimidator SS and the Ford Harley-Davidson™ F-150, have made their debut. This article delves into the specifics of these new trucks, providing detailed reviews and interesting statistics.

Compact Trucks: Isuzu i-280 and i-350

Isuzu i-280

The Isuzu i-280 is a compact,The Latest Truck Models of 2006: A Comprehensive Review Articles two-door, 2WD truck with an extended cab. It features a 2.8-liter, inline 4-cylinder engine that delivers 175 horsepower and 185 lb-ft of torque. The truck has a maximum payload capacity of 1,532 lbs and comes standard with a 5-speed manual transmission, although a 4-speed automatic is available as an option. Safety features are optional, and the truck offers three optional packages. Pricing starts at $14,239.

Isuzu i-350

The Isuzu i-350 is a more robust, four-door, 4WD model with a crew cab. It is equipped with a 3.5-liter inline 5-cylinder engine that produces 220 horsepower and has a maximum payload of 1,190 lbs and a towing capacity of 4,000 lbs. The i-350 comes with a 4-speed automatic transmission and a range of standard amenities. An optional limited package includes power-heated seats, a 6-disc CD changer, and leather seats. Pricing starts at $24,608.

Mid-Size Trucks: Mitsubishi Raider

The Mitsubishi Raider offers two engine options: a 3.7-liter V6 with 210 horsepower and 235 lb-ft of torque, and a 4.7-liter V8 with 230 horsepower and 290 lb-ft of torque. The Raider is available in both extended cab and double cab configurations, with 2WD or 4WD options. Transmission choices include a 6-speed manual, 4-speed automatic, or 5-speed automatic. The truck features rack-and-pinion steering and can tow up to 6,500 lbs. One notable option is the High Output Audio Package, which includes a 508-watt audio system with a 6-disc CD changer, MP3 capability, 9 speakers, and Sirius Satellite radio. Pricing starts at $19,180.

Unique Trucks: Honda Ridgeline

The Honda Ridgeline stands out as a unique offering in the truck market. It is designed for everyday comfort while also meeting the demands of towing and payload. The Ridgeline is available only in 4WD, with a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 247 horsepower and 252 lb-ft of torque. It has a payload capacity of 1,550 lbs and a towing capacity of 5,000 lbs. The truck seats five comfortably with its four full-size doors and features an 8.5 cubic foot bed. It is the only 4WD pickup to achieve a 5-star government crash test rating for both frontal and side impact tests. The Ridgeline also has a unique dual-action tailgate that swings both down and to the side. Pricing starts at $27,700.

Full-Size Trucks: Dodge Ram Mega Cab

The Dodge Ram Mega Cab is not a new model, but its massive cab size makes it noteworthy. The Mega Cab offers 143.2 cubic feet of interior space and a cab length of 111.1 inches, making it the largest pickup cab ever. It seats six and is available in both 2WD and 4WD configurations. The 5.7-liter Hemi V8 engine produces 345 horsepower and 375 lb-ft of torque, while the 5.9-liter Cummins Turbo Diesel six-cylinder engine offers 325 horsepower and 610 lb-ft of torque. The Mega Cab also features 7.5 cubic feet of storage behind the rear seats and offers luxury options such as a rear-seat DVD entertainment system, power sunroof, and full-screen navigation system. Pricing starts at $32,760.

Limited-Edition Trucks

Chevy Silverado Intimidator SS

The Chevy Silverado Intimidator SS is a limited-edition truck created in collaboration with Dale Earnhardt Incorporated. It features a race-inspired spoiler, unique silver front grille, and a lowered ride height. The truck is equipped with a Vortec 6000 V8 engine that produces 345 horsepower and 380 lb-ft of torque. It also includes performance-tuned suspension, two-stage multi-leaf springs, Tenneco shock absorbers, and a stiffer front stabilizer bar. The exterior is finished in a black monochromatic color scheme with 20-inch chrome wheels. The interior features Dale Earnhardt's signature on the white-faced gauge cluster, black leather seats, and Intimidator badging. Only 1,333 units will be produced, with a portion of each sale going to the Dale Earnhardt Foundation.

Ford Harley-Davidson™ F-150 SuperCab

The Ford Harley-Davidson™ F-150 SuperCab is another limited-edition truck, featuring a 5.4-liter, three-valve Triton® V8 engine with a specially tuned exhaust system that produces 300 horsepower and 365 lb-ft of torque. The truck has a 6.5-foot Styleside bed, smoked-out tail lamps, blacked-out bumper, chrome tie-down hooks, slash-cut chrome exhaust, and a chrome billet grille. It also features 22-inch polished aluminum rims with a split 5-spoke design. The interior is accented with high-gloss piano black and chrome highlights, black leather front captain's chairs, and the Harley-Davidson logo. Ford plans to produce only 10,000 units of this model.

Conclusion

The 2006 truck models offer a diverse range of options, from compact to full-size and limited-edition models. Each truck brings unique features and capabilities to the table, catering to different needs and preferences. Whether you're looking for a compact truck like the Isuzu i-280, a mid-size option like the Mitsubishi Raider, a unique offering like the Honda Ridgeline, or a full-size powerhouse like the Dodge Ram Mega Cab, the 2006 lineup has something for everyone.

For more detailed reviews and specifications, you can visit Edmunds and Kelley Blue Book.

Interesting Stats:

  • The Honda Ridgeline is the only 4WD pickup to achieve a 5-star government crash test rating for both frontal and side impact tests. Source.
  • The Dodge Ram Mega Cab offers 143.2 cubic feet of interior space, making it the largest pickup cab ever. Source.
  • Only 1,333 units of the Chevy Silverado Intimidator SS will be produced, with a portion of each sale going to the Dale Earnhardt Foundation. Source.

This article provides a comprehensive review of the latest truck models of 2006, offering detailed specifications and interesting statistics to help you make an informed decision.