Work Trucks Become Family-Friendly, With Added Storage and Infotainment
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Lifestyles
Most pickup trucks these days spend evenings and weekends at home rather than parked at the work site. Recognizing the double-duty nature of today’s pickups, automakers are stretching crew cabs to add leg and hip room in the second row. Ram increased the overall cab length of its 2019 model by four inches, with second-row seats that recline up to eight inches. The seats also flip up stadium-style to create space for larger cargo inside the cabin.
The 2019 Ram 1500 Limited adds space for more second-row comfort. The 2019 Ram 1500 Laramie Longhorn interior, shown at the top of this post, features a high-tech cabin.
The 2019 Chevrolet Silverado offers three inches more of rear seat legroom than the outgoing model. Large storage bins in the second-row seatbacks and a 24-liter storage tray under the second-row seats provide secure storage for groceries, fishing rods, and tackle boxes.
Function and Technology
“Our interior teams focused on three key areas—storage, function, and technology,” said Ryan Nagode, chief interior designer for Ram trucks. “We wrapped these up in trim levels ranging from our entry-level work truck through our luxury segment.”
The Ram's available 12-inch touchscreen incorporates Sirius satellite radio’s - opens in new window or tab. newest digital technology that includes podcasts. The screen also gives users access to the truck’s 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot, navigation, surround-view camera, and Harman Kardon 900-watt audio system using pinch-to-zoom and swipe controls. A configurable center console holds a 15-inch laptop for owners who use their trucks as a mobile office - opens in new window or tab.. Multiple USB ports and 12-volt power points enable multiple occupants to plug in electronic devices. Upper trim levels now include wireless phone charging - opens in new window or tab..
Ford’s F-150 offers upscale leather seats and Wi-Fi hotspots to keep all your passengers connected.
Interiors on the latest Ford F-150s include Wi-Fi hotspots that accommodate up to 10 users. Upholstery options for the latest generation of pickups fit a variety of lifestyles with leather for upscale grades such as the Ram 1500 Limited and Longhorn, Ford F-150 King Ranch and Platinum, and Chevrolet Silverado High Country. Ram designers equipped the off-road Rebel with heavy-duty vinyl and breathable fabric that is easier to clean (and has some grip for securing occupants on the trails).
Upgrade Your Truck for Family Life
Pioneer AVIC-5200NEX
Pickup owners can take inspiration from new light-duty pickups to customize their existing ride. If your truck doesn’t have a rearview camera, consider one of the new wireless models that work via the vehicle’s Bluetooth interface. See “Eliminate Blind Spots with an Add-On Backup Camera - opens in new window or tab..”
An in-dash navigation system is easy to see while driving, adding a measure of safety over mounted cell phones. Budget-priced models such as the Kenwood DDX24BT - opens in new window or tab. cost about $200. The Pioneer AVIC-5200NEX - opens in new window or tab. comes with a touchscreen and receiver for running the truck’s audio system. A built-in DVD player keeps kids entertained on long trips.
Du-Ha’s under-seat storage box
Add an under-seat storage system to your crew cab to create a secure spot for larger items: Du-Ha’s under-seat storage box - opens in new window or tab., Weathertech cargo containment system - opens in new window or tab., and Husky GearBox - opens in new window or tab. are three good options.
If the upholstery is starting to wear, consider custom seat covers - opens in new window or tab.. Styles range from leather to stain and come in water-resistant fabrics perfect for active lifestyles. While you’re at it, add water-resistant floor mats - opens in new window or tab. to protect the carpeting from mud and mold—whether tracked in from a work site or by one of your tykes.
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This article is meant to provide general guidance only. Automotive maintenance, repair, upgrade, and installation may depend on vehicle-specifics such as make and model. Always consult your owner's manual, repair guide for specific information for your particular vehicle and consider a licensed auto-care professional's help as well, particularly for advance repairs.