By Don Armstrong
Even though our beloved Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo won’t happen again this year due to the pandemic, this is typically the month Bay Area Houston Magazine gets in the spirit with a review of a couple new truck offerings. We’re doing it anyway.
All-new F-150 Lariat in Rapid Red Metallic Tinted Clearcoat.
Ford F-150
The Ford F-150 is still the number 1 selling vehicle in Texas, but did you know that the 2021 model is all-new? Ford wouldn’t dare venture too far from the design that has made this do-all so popular for 44 consecutive years so it may be difficult to spot one.
Although the F-150 boasts 95 percent new content, only a side-by-side comparison would reveal what makes it “all-new.” Ford offers 11 new grilles, mostly dictated by one of the 6 trim levels, 3 cabs, 3 bed lengths and 6 engine choices.
Our all-round favorite is the Lariat SuperCrew with the turbocharged 2.7-liter V-6 with 325-HP and 400-Lb.Ft. of torque. This is plenty for most folks that may tow the boat and haul the camping gear on family weekend getaways, still keeping the price at around $50K.
Where the new F-150 really shines is the interior. The Lariat trim level gets you the optional 12-inch infotainment screen, the centerpiece of its complete redesign.
Check out the new integrated power generator, Max Recline Seats, lockable rear storage or the Tailgate Work Surface.
The 2021 GMC Sierra 1500 and Sierra Heavy Duty feature additional innovative trailering tech that helps drivers tow like a pro.
GMC Sierra Denali HD
For the truck owner that tows, hauls, or both, the Sierra Denali HD is a serious contender.
This heavy duty is a step above the half-ton truck found in most residential driveways and where most serious boat and RV owners reside.
Completely redesigned last year, not much has changed for ’21. The look is bold, and boy is this thing big. If it’s important to fit it in your garage, we’d suggest you break out the tape measure first. Like a Clydesdale, you will need a sidestep to mount this one.
There are two engines available, the 6.6-liter gasoline or a monster diesel of the same caliber that delivers 445-HP and a whopping 910-lb-ft of torque. It’s mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission.
All the talk is about the MultiPro tailgate. It’s standard on the SLT and Denali versions and an option on others. Get it.
Pricing starts at $40,100. Denali trim and options get you into the $60K range quickly.
