Welcome to the Car and Driver Testing Hub, where we delve into the nitty-gritty details of vehicle performance. This year, we focused on our Ramp Travel Index (RTI) test, which measures a vehicle’s suspension articulation. The Toyota Land Cruiser impressed us with one of the highest scores, showcasing its capabilities. On the other hand, the Ford F-150 Lightning fell short in our RTI test, highlighting its limitations.
RTI is a measure of articulation, where a vehicle is driven up a standardized ramp at a 20-degree angle until the rear tire begins to lift off the ground. This test helps us understand a vehicle’s off-road capabilities and performance. We meticulously measure and calculate the results to provide accurate data for our readers.
In the mid-size truck category, the Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro stood out with an impressive score, thanks to its innovative features like the disconnectable front anti-roll bar. The Ford Ranger Raptor and Chevrolet Colorado ZR2, on the other hand, scored lower due to their fixed front anti-roll bars. The Tacoma TRD Pro’s off-road prowess was further highlighted by its Trailhunter variant, which outperformed its counterparts.
The introduction of the Toyota Land Cruiser and Lexus GX550 brought excitement to the off-road scene. The Land Cruiser’s superior approach angle and front anti-roll bar disconnect gave it an edge over the GX550 in our RTI test. Despite the differences in their platforms, both vehicles performed admirably, showcasing their off-road capabilities.
Electric vehicles also made their mark on the ramp, with the Rivian R1S and Mercedes-Benz G580 impressing us with their performance. The unique weight distribution in electric SUVs led to interesting results on the RTI test, with the rear tire lifting first in some cases. The Rivian R1S emerged as a frontrunner in the electric SUV category, highlighting its off-road potential.
In the electric truck segment, the Rivian RIT outshone its competitors with a high score, thanks to its innovative hydraulic stabilizer bars. On the other hand, the Ford F-150 Lightning struggled in our RTI test, indicating room for improvement in its off-road capabilities. The evolving landscape of electric vehicles in the off-road market is an exciting development, with more vehicles set to undergo testing in the future.
Overall, our RTI test provided valuable insights into the off-road performance of a diverse range of vehicles. From traditional SUVs to electric trucks, each vehicle showcased its strengths and weaknesses on the ramp. As we continue to push the boundaries of testing, our goal remains the same: to provide readers with objective data to inform their purchasing decisions and enhance their driving experience.