4x4x4=ControversyJust how good are today's trucks as off-roaders? This was the question the article was supposed to answer. The vehicles tested were V-8 powered, extended cab, half-ton pickups-on- and off-road. I hope future articles comparing vehicles are not written with the callous disregard to fact as in "Four by Fours...x4!" I've ignored past articles with discrepancies in the comparison test winners, but this takes the cake. In the introduction, you paint the picture you're going to test the 4x4 systems of each new mainstream truck. In your conclusion, you disregard your own findings and post the winner as this year's "Truck of the Year." I don't get it. Are you afraid of what would happen if your TOY didn't win all tests? Take a good look at your statistics on the article.
Besides the "On-Road Evaluation," the Toyota didn't win any other category. In fact, Chevrolet should've been the hands-down winner. I'm not arguing the Toyota isn't worthy of the Truck of the Year title, I just think the editors need to look at why they're doing a test and publish the facts not the opinions of past articles.Michael ConleyRancho Santa Margarita, Calif.
We knew this test of America's workhorses would get your hackles up, but if "almost" winning 34 races in a season is good enough for NASCAR to name its overall champion, then it's good enough for us. Besides, you're forgetting each of the other contestants also are Truck of the Year winners from their launch years: '94, '97, and '99-Ed.
Reading the "Four by Fours...x4!" piece in your May 2000 issue, I'm surprised at your choice for best pick. The article gives me a different impression as to which truck is best. My friend has a 2000 Toyota Tundra, and I have a 2000 Chevy Silverado. When we go out, I run circles around his truck. People who ride in both trucks call my LT, "the Caddy of trucks," while they say the Toyota is "just nice." I had my choice of all the trucks tested (and tested each one carefully), and I feel I made a better choice than your team. My Chevy has the most power, most room, and best handling of all the trucks you tested. Some of my friends, including the one who owns the Toyota, believe your staff is only excited to see Toyota build a full-size to compete against the Big Three. The friend who bought the Toyota (in no small part because he trusted your opinion) is now looking into trading to the Chevy. I think we've both lost a little trust in your opinion.Tim GravertGreeley, Colo.
I think the results of your 4x4 pickup shootout were a bit flawed. If you tested these trucks with off-road packages installed, then it's difficult to see why on-road comfort counted as much as it did. The off-road package on the Dodge Ram, for instance, makes for a harsh on-road feel because the truck is better suited for off-road applications. I've had experience with all of the trucks reviewed and I've never had a problem with the Dodge Ram losing traction. It's always been one of the most sure-footed vehicles I've driven. Also, it seems your test drivers had a problem with the fact that the Ram came standard with rear ABS only. Any true off-roader knows that, in many real off-road situations, anti-lock brakes can be your worst enemy. So, if you want a truck suited to on-road comfort, then get the ABS option and omit the off-road package, but don't judge a vehicle for something it doesn't pretend to be. The Ram is the best truck for its purpose, which in this case would be off-road navigation.Matt PerryKingsville, Md.
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