What truck is the best off-roader for 2017? We asked all pickup manufactures to submit their best off-roaders for 2017 to compete for the title of the 2017 Gold Hitch best off-road pickup truck.
This year’s contenders represent the midsize, half-ton, and heavy duty segments.
2017 Nissan Frontier PRO-4X
The Frontier PRO-4X has not changed much for 2017. There are a couple of updates with the interior and a new graphics package. The PRO-4X is powered by a 4.0L V6 with 261 hp and 281 lb-ft of torque. The 5-speed automatic sends the power to the 4×4 system with low range and an locking rear differential.
2017 Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro
The TRD Pro Tacoma is all-new for 2017. Naturally, it’s based on the third generation of the Tacoma that made its debut in 2016. This truck has a unique suspension tuning with 2.5-inch diameter Fox shocks. There is a large aluminum skid plate in the front. The truck has a rear locker, a limited slip front differential, and a crawl control system. The 3.5L V6 engine is the same as in other Tacoma trucks. It makes 278 hp and 265 lb-ft of torque, and it’s backed up by a 6-speed automatic transmission.
2017 Nissan Titan 1500 PRO-4X
The half-ton Titan is all-new for 2017. The truck has a unique chassis that is significantly shorter than that on the Titan XD. The PRO-4X version adds Bilstein shocks and an off-road tuned suspension. There are skid plates and hill descent control.
2017 Ford Raptor
This truck needs little introduction. The second generation Raptor is all new. It rides on a new frame, aluminum body helps the truck lose nearly 500 lbs when compared to the first-generation Raptor. Under the hood is a high-output version of the second-generation 3.5L EcoBoost V6 engine. This is the most powerful engine in this group. It produces 450 horsepower and 510 lb-ft of torque. It’s mated to the new 10-speed automatic transmission. The truck has a rear locking differential and a automatically-adjusting Torsen front differential.
2017 Ram Power Wagon
The Power Wagon get several cosmetic updates for 2017. It has a more luxurious interior with a new gauge cluster. On the outside, there is a new grille, powder-coated bumpers, and a new graphics package. Underneath, it is the same Power Wagon with front and rear lockers, disconnecting front sway bar, 6.4L HEMI V8 with 410 hp and 429 lb-ft of torque, and a 6-speed automatic transmission. It is still the only pickup truck that offers a winch from the factory.
