Ultimat e Accesso ries for the Truck

and Jeep Owner and the Outdoor sman.

Winter 2015

Manufacturer & Distributor of The Finest Roll
Covers, Toolboxes & Accessories on Earth!

Also This Issue:

Truck Reviews page 12
Sweepstakes page 23
New Products page 34

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Us On

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WWW.SPORTSMANSGEARMAG.COM

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W W W. S P O R T S M A N S G E A R M A G . C O M 

Contents

www.sportsmansgearmag.com

WINTER 2015

TRUCK COVERS USA ................................................. 8

CAR REVIEWS ........................................................... 40

FEATURES

INDUSTRY NEWS........................................................ 46

eCOOLogical............................................................... 18
BFGOODRICH............................................................. 20

DEPARTMENTS
EDITORS LETTER......................................................... 4
TRUCK REVIEWS....................................................... 12
SWEEPSTAKES.......................................................... 23
SUV REVIEWS ............................................................ 26
NEW PRODUCTS........................................................ 34
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Truck Reviews pg. 12 

Editor’s Letter

W

inter is here folks...even in the
deep south it is cold! This issue,
luckily, is packed full of good
reading material to keep you busy until you
get back out and rolling again!
Have you seen the new trucks on the
market? Starting on page 12, you can get a
good look at the GMC Canyon, the Chevrolet
Colorado and the Nissan Frontier. All are
similar, yet all are very different.
The Nissan Frontier continues to be
a leader in the mid-size truck segment,
combining premium hardware, extraordinary
power and an exceptional level of on- and
off-road performance. The 2015 Chevrolet
Colorado is an all-new midsize pickup with
the style and versatility of a truck and the
refinement, maneuverability and efficiency
of a crossover. And, the 2015 GMC Canyon
is an all-new midsize truck that redefines
the segment and raises the bar for everything
from h o r s e p o w e r a n d e fficie n cy to
refinement – and it gives GMC one of the
only three-truck lineups in the industry.
 Also, check out the new models of Sport
Utility Vehicles like the Cadillac Escalade on
page 26.
The fourth-generation Escalade has
an entirely new exterior design yet is

4

instantly recognizable. Inside, cut-andsewn materials and wood trim, chosen for
elegance and authenticity, combine with the
latest technologies to convey an exceptional
level of luxury. The new cars, beginning
on page 40, gives you a peek at  models
like the award-winning Hyundai Sonata.
The all-new Hyundai Sonata won the 2015
BEST Economic Performance award from
the Automotive Science Group (ASG). The
award recognizes the model that holds the
lowest cost of ownership in its class. In
addition, the Sonata and Santa Fe Sport were
honored as BEST 5 All-Around Performance
models for achieving the highest combined

W W W. S P O RT S M A N S G E A R M A G . C O M

social, environmental and economic
performance scores.
 There are lots of new products (page 34)
and some interesting tidbits in Industry News
(page 46), so read it and pass it on to a friend.
Thanks for your continued patronage!
 
Until next time,
 
 
Becky J. Beall
Editor-in-Chief 

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Truck Covers USA

Manufacturer & Distributor of The Finest Roll Covers,
Toolboxes & Accessories on Earth!
About Truck Covers USA
We are an innovative, focused and highly
motivated organization. Each product we
manufacture is of the highest quality, and
the satisfaction of every customer with said
products is vital to us. Our commitment
to excellence is seen in both our product
range and efficient and friendly customer
service. When it comes to tonneau
aftermarket products, the challenge of
providing a solution and developing an
infrastructure that will manage security,
efficiency, service, function, and still look
good and have exceptional quality is a feat
that few have achieved. At Truck Covers
USA, while accomplishing this, we
challenge ourselves with so much more.
We are dedicated to maintaining the highest
standards in manufacture and distribution of
our quality products, developing new and
exciting products that solve the needs of
customers in the future, training our staff to
remain educated on all levels of company
activities, and to continuing our research and
development so that we make the best even
better.

keyguard lock is more aesthetically pleasing,
and during manufacture all components
are consistently subjected to testing and
improvement where necessary. Built on
Experience; Easy to Install; Superior Style;
Easy to Operate; Textured Powder Coated
Finish; 2-Year Warranty; Durable, Secure,
Convenient. Protects cargo from weather
& theft. Quality, Security & Strength – For
Work or For Play. Built to Last from Truck
Covers USA.
American Work Cover - An industry first
Toolbox & Roll Cover Combination. Two
essential products are combined to create the
ideal work truck combination of the highest
quality. This multifunctional product was
engineered & designed with the work truck
and superior style in mind. Product features
include not only the superior construction
of the American Roll Cover itself, but a
heavy-duty galvanized sheet metal sectioned
toolbox; OEM grade locking mechanisms; 2
removable sliding trays; LED cargo lighting
& remote locking options available. The
American Work Cover is the preferred choice
of America’s Finest Fleets.

Our Products
American Roll Cover - Truck Covers
USA’s signature product is the American
Roll Cover. The American Roll Cover
is the toughest, best-looking, retractable
aluminum cover available today. Striving
to be innovative yet practical, has led to
the inclusion of some unique and exciting
features & changes to our signature product.
This product evolves constantly. Our new
redesigned end slat gives a much more
aerodynamic and modern look; the new

American Work Cover Jr. - With
the success of & awards for our original
American Work Cover product, we were
focused on providing the next stage in
innovation, a smaller version of our original
Toolbox. Again and proudly, an industry
first, this new Toolbox Jr. is able to replace
the American Roll Cover canister lid to
provide the convenience of a toolbox without
any additional loss of bed space. The ideal
product for the journeyman or outdoorsman
to carry tools & other equipment without

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W W W. S P O R T S M A N S G E A R M A G . C O M

the loss of any additional bed space. Keeps
whatever you need to carry safe & secure.
Perfect for new & existing American Roll
Cover customers.
American Truck Rack - Truck Covers
USA introduces the American Truck Rack A multi-purpose ladder rack that can be used
with our roll-top tonneau cover, or as a stand
alone product. It integrates aluminum and
stainless steel design elements to create a
sturdy, yet eye-pleasing mechanical structure.
Using stake pocket holes, installation is easy.
No drilling required. Rack weighs about
60lbs, but carries up to 500lbs. Aerodynamic
crossbars lie flat on top to support loads and
improve airflow and gas mileage. Proudly
designed and manufactured entirely in the
USA.
The Secret to Truck Covers USA’s
Longevity
There is no question that the secret to our
continued success is found in the quality and
durability of our products, our innovation,
and brilliant customer service. The Truck
Covers USA brand is synonymous with
value, excellence, versatility, endurance,
and strength. We believe too, that listening
carefully to customer and dealer feedback
has enabled us to create new products that
are useful and to consistently upgrade
existing products. This keeps us relevant and
flexible as a company, essential in today’s
rapidly changing markets. Having committed
staff that share the Truck Cover USA passion
& vision enables us to work together as
we strive and succeed to provide quality
products with excellent customer service.SG 

Truck Reviews
The 2015 Frontier is offered in both King
Cab and Crew Cab body styles and in 4x2
and 4x4 driveline configurations, along with
five trim grades: Frontier S (4-cylinder and
V6), SV, PRO-4X (4x4 only), Desert Runner
(4x2 only) and SL (Crew Cab only).

2015 Nissan Frontier PRO-4X
Class:Pickup Truck
Fuel Economy: 15/21
Base Price: $32,560
The Nissan Frontier continues to be
a leader in the mid-size truck segment,
combining premium hardware, extraordinary
power and an exceptional level of on- and
off-road performance.

12

For 2015, Frontier receives a number of
enhancements, including:
• Moonroof added as standard on Frontier
SL Long Wheelbase models
• NissanConnectSM with Navigation and
Mobile Apps now standard on PRO-4X
models
• NissanConnectSM with Mobile Apps and
5.0-inch color display now standard with
Frontier SV and Desert Runner grades
• One new exterior color: Arctic Blue
Metallic
Frontier again offers a choice of two
powerplants: a 4.0-liter DOHC V6 engine
rated at 261 horsepower and 281 lb-ft of
torque or a 152-horsepower 2.5-liter inline
4-cylinder engine (King Cab only).

W W W. S P O R T S M A N S G E A R M A G . C O M

2015 Chevrolet Colorado 4WD Z71 Crew
Long Box
Class: Pickup Truck
Fuel Economy: 17/24
Base Price: $34,415
The 2015 Chevrolet Colorado is an allnew midsize pickup with the style and
versatility of a truck and the refinement,
maneuverability and efficiency of a
crossover.
“Many people like the ‘can-do’ spirit of a
truck, but they want a vehicle that is easier to
maneuver in traffic and easier to park at work
or at home,” said Tony Johnson, Colorado
marketing manager. “For them, bigger is not
necessarily better.”
“Also, they don’t want to give up the
latest in convenience and safety features,
which aren’t available on current midsize
pickups. For those customers, the new
Chevrolet Colorado is the perfect choice.” 

Truck Reviews

Traditional truck features such as fourwheel drive and a highly flexible bed with
Chevy’s GearOn™ system are available,
enhancing capability.

The 2015 Colorado is tailored to the
needs of customers in North America
with distinctive design cues and a quiet,
comfortable interior that offers car and
crossover amenities. It also offers innovative
features such as Chevy MyLink with a builtin available 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot, Lane
Departure Warning and Forward Collision
Alert.
Colorado is available in four-door
extended- or crew-cab models, with a choice
of a four-cylinder or a V-6 engine and
offering segment-leading highway efficiency
of up to EPA-estimated 27 mpg highway for
the four-cylinder and 26 mpg with the V-6
(2WD models), when properly equipped. The
Colorado also offers the segment’s highestavailable trailering rating: 7,000 pounds with
the available V-6 engine and heavy-duty
towing package.
14

2015 GMC Canyon 4WD SLE Crew Short
Box
Class: Pickup Truck
Fuel Economy: 17/24
Base Price: $34,010
The 2015 GMC Canyon is an all-new
midsize truck that redefines the segment
and raises the bar for everything from
horsepower and efficiency to refinement –
and it gives GMC one of the only three-truck
lineups in the industry.
“The all-new Canyon is the segment’s
first premium midsize truck, delivering
class-leading capabilities with the brand’s
signature refinement,” said Duncan Aldred,
vice president of GMC Sales and Marketing.
“It’s an efficiently sized, maneuverable
package for customers who want the cargohauling and trailering versatility of a truck
without the size of a full-size pickup.”
Based on a proven global architecture
and engineered for the unique demands
W W W. S P O R T S M A N S G E A R M A G . C O M

and driving conditions of North American
drivers, the new Canyon offers the segment’s
best horsepower – 200 horsepower (149 kW)
from a standard 2.5L I-4 and 305 horsepower
(227 kW) from an available 3.6L V-6 – along
with an available maximum trailering rating
(when properly equipped) of 7,000 pounds
(3,175 kg).
It also offers segment-best highway
efficiency: EPA-estimated 27 mpg for 2.5L
2WD models and 26 mpg for 3.6L 2WD
models, when properly equipped.
Canyon is the only truck in the segment to
offer AutoTrac automatic four-wheel drive,
which allows the driver to select manual
4WD engagement or automatic engagement.
Canyon is offered in base, SLE and
SLT models, in 2WD and 4WD, and with
an aggressively styled All-Terrain package
offered on SLE models. It includes 17-inch
painted aluminum wheels wrapped with allterrain tires, a body-color grille surround
with horizontal chrome bars, a body-color
rear bumper, front tow hooks, hill descent
control and specific suspension tuning. It
also includes a power-adjustable front
passenger seat. SG 

Hammerhead

H

ammerhead™ Armor is a division
of Hol-Mac Corporation based in
Bay Springs, Miss. In the spring
of 2013 Hol-Mac Corporation celebrated
fifty years of superior manufacturing and
engineering excellence. As a privately owned
company, Hol-Mac is well versed in all
facets of manufacturing due to an extensive
history in design, cutting, forming, welding
and machining of 40 to 400 ton mining
trucks for one of the world’s most recognized
mining and construction companies.
Originally founded as Southern Welding
and Machine by Charles B. Holder, the
company provided welding and machine
shop services to the local timber, oil field,
construction, and farming industries.
As Mr. Holder’s resources grew so did
his vision. Led by a sound financial base,
technical expertise and the drive to expand
into a world-class manufacturer, Hol-Mac
Corporation grew from two employees in
one facility to five modern facilities with
over 700 skilled craftsmen and professionals.
Each facility specializes in specific
applications, and Hol-Mac Corporation’s
dedicated manufacturing space exceeds
600,000 square feet.
Hammerhead™ Armor was born in 2009
with a desire to create the best looking
bumper on the market, priced so that all
drivers could enjoy the protection of a
solid steel bumper. Hammerhead Armor
currently has front and rear bumper

designs that cover over 200 truck and SUV
makes and models. Designs include Chevy,
Dodge, Ford, GMC, Toyota, Nissan, and
Jeep.
Hammerhead Armor is committed to
providing drivers innovative designs in
aftermarket truck accessories. The most
recent product addition is the X-Treme Duty
(XD) Series bumper for several models
of Kenworth, Peterbilt and Freightliner
work trucks. In addition to front and rear
bumpers, Hammerhead crafts a variety of
other vehicle accessories including running
boards, Jeep JK spare tire carrier, and fuel
transfer tanks. Hammerhead Armor’s award
winning Jeep JK rear bumper and spare tire
carrier combo is designed to work in tandem
with tailgate for simple, one motion opening.
The tire carrier pivots on twin tapered roller
bearings for smooth operation. In addition, it
accommodates up to a 38” tire and includes
mount for OEM third brake light.
Hammerhead™ Armor strength is infused
into each product manufactured. From the
preliminary design and engineering phase
to paint and packaging, all processes are
completed in-house ensuring customers
always receive world-class, American

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made products. Design begins with CMM
digitized measurements to engineer vehicle
specific products. Hammerhead Armor
maximizes materials and laser precision by
using 90”x60” sheets of A36 pickled and
oiled steel. The thickness of the steel varies
by bumper and by part; Hammerhead Armor
half-ton models consist of ¼” and 5/16”
mounts, 3/4” shackle mounts, 3/16” shell;
three-quarter-ton and larger models consist
of 5/16” mounts, 3/4” shackle mounts, and
3/16” shell. Hammerhead Armor’s solid onepiece shackle mounts are fitted securely to
the frame of the truck, allowing loads to be
transferred directly to the frame of the truck,
instead of the bumper’s shell. Hammerhead
Armor offers these front winch bumpers in
three styles: full brush guard, pre-runner, and
no brush guard. All bumpers and running
boards come standard with a powder coat
primer base and black wrinkle powder coat
finish and range in weight from 120-250 lbs.,
depending on model.
For more information about
Hammerhead™
A r m o r ’s c o m p l e t e
line of American made, premium
aftermarket bumpers and accessories,
visit hammerheadarmor.com or call
855-HHTOUGH. You can also find
Hammerhead Armor on Facebook, Instagram
and Twitter @hammerheadarmor. SG 

Suit Up Your Truck for Your Active Lifestyle

Enhance the utility and style of your truck with these exclusive new products from eCOOLogical

AeroBox:
Rear Mounted Truck Bed Cargo Box
“I was always frustrated with having to
stuff my things in the cab of my truck to
keep them from rolling around and protected
from the weather or theft, when I’ve got
all that underutilized cargo capacity in the
bed,” Evans recounts. “So, we designed the
AeroBox, which is unlike traditional cargo
boxes mounted behind the cab of the truck
because it sits in the back of the bed, against
the tailgate. This provides much easier
access to the cargo, is safe and secure, and
protected from weather. Compared to other
tool/cargo boxes, the AeroBox is geared
more for enhancing the utility of your truck
for everyday use, like going to the grocery
store, or packing your camping gear.” Made
of an impact and weather resistant polymer,
the AeroBox provides the convenience of a
secure trunk for your truck and fits most fullsize pickups.
Traditional truck bed boxes make reaching
your gear difficult and are typically designed
with the contractor in mind. Now you have an
alternative. The AeroBox features a unique,
rear-mounted design, making it perfect
for easily and securely stowing your gear
in your truck bed where you can reach it.
The patented docking system and integrated
wheels also allow easy portability of your
gear closer to your activity site or into the
garage.
You’ll be amazed at how much stuff
you can fit in the 11 cubic feet of AeroBox
storage. You can customize the storage space
to stow large items like tents, camping chairs,
gun cases, or fishing poles, or position the
divider panels to keep smaller equipment
like tackle boxes, gas cans, or sleeping bags,
separated and secured from moving around.
The AeroBox is very secure! The low
profile fits below the rails of your truck bed,
making it almost imperceptible, thus not
advertising your gear like those other shiny
boxes! The AeroBox has two high-quality
keyed locks with specially designed hooked
cam latches to resist prying. In addition, the
door is flush with the tailgate, thus nearly

impossible for someone to get at, especially
with a locking tailgate.
The aerodynamic shape and position at
the rear of the truck bed helps reduce wind
drag on the truck, giving you a little more
distance on a tank of gas. Having the weight
at the rear can also improve traction at the
rear wheels for those slippery roads and trails.
Additionally, unlike most other truck bed
boxes, the AeroBox works great with most
Tonneau Covers and Bed Caps.

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BumperShellz:
Decorative-Protective Truck Bumper Covers
BumperShellz™ are durable thermoplastic
covers formed to fit over your original
equipment truck bumper, like a protective
shell. In order to save weight, today’s
truck bumpers are very thin and vulnerable
to damage. These durable covers not only
add style, but also protect the bumper
fro m ro ck impingement, abras ions ,
and other light impacts. Even a small
pit on a chrome bumper can lead to rapid
corrosion, especially when exposed to
snow and salt. For bumpers with existing
small dents, dings, or rust, BumperShellz
can oftentimes cover the damage to give
the bumper a like-new appearance, similar
to the way new siding improves the look
of a weathered house. Evans explains,
“There are no good ways to repair a chrome
bumper and they are incredibly expensive
to replace, so most people just live with
the damage.” BumperShellz provide a
previously unavailable alternative that is

easy to install, economical, and attractive.”
In addition, rather than investing in a very
expensive aftermarket bumper and disposing
of your factory bumper to get a new look,
BumperShellz can help transform the look
of your truck at a fraction of the cost and
environmental impact. BumperShellz come
in a variety of patterns/colors to choose
from, such as: Carbon Fiber, Brushed Metal,
Camoflauge, Matte or Gloss Black, and
others.
The bumper has long been a space used to
convey messages and express individuality
to other motorists. Now, eCOOLogical, has
introduced the first major advancement in this
popular mobile advertising space in decades
to provide pickup truck owners the ability
to further highlight their message with a
“cool” and unique backlighting affect called
BriteShellz™. This new technology provides
an industry-first ability to backlight images,
logos or messages on a truck’s rear bumper
without any modification by utilizing ultrathin electro-luminescent light panels. This
allows the truck owner to easily apply an
image/logo sticker, such as NCAA, NFL,
favorite brands, etc., within the backlit
window to highlight their message both day
AND night! You can also choose from a
collection of images from eCOOLogical or
request a custom image/logo to shine more
light on your business or individuality. For
more information, visit www.ecoological.
com, or give us a call at 866-300-9606. SG 

BFGoodrich

BFGoodrich® Tires’ Toughest All-Terrain Tire Ever Hits the Market
All-Terrain T/A® KO2 Tire Available At 20,000 Authorized Dealers
BFGoodrich® Tires, the company that
created the first all-terrain tire in 1976, has
launched its most advanced light truck tire
ever with the new All-Terrain T/A® KO2
tire. The tire is now available in 12 initial
sizes to consumers at more than 20,000
BFGoodrich authorized dealers.
E n g i n e e r e d f r o m B F G o o d r i c h ’s
championship off-road motorsports racing
technology, the KO2 delivers exceptional
toughness, treadlife and traction for
traversing harsh conditions, including gravel,
dirt, rock, mud and snow. The new KO2
provides consumers the confidence to take
on the toughest challenges for work or play.
Compared to the already formidable
current KO tire, the new KO2 brings the
toughness, traction and treadlife that
demanding light truck owners require in a
tire.

the tread to reduce drilling into the tire.
• Aggressive Traction: The KO2 also has
a range of tread features for better mud
and snow traction. The improvements
to the legendary all-terrain performance
include 10 percent greater traction in
the mud3 and 19 percent greater traction
in the snow4 compared to the previousgeneration KO tire. Side-Biter lugs in the
sidewall improve traction in mud, snow
and rocks. Raised bars in the shoulder
help release compacted mud for better
traction in soft soil. 3-D sipes create
biting edges for better snow traction.

Key features of the KO2 include:
• Tougher Sidewalls: The KO2 uses raceproven and racewinning CoreGard™
technology developed in the Baja
T/A KR2 for split and bruise-resistant
sidewall rubber and a thicker, extended
shoulder to prevent sidewall failures.
Computer modeling was used to predict
object paths and create a sidewall
designed to deflect protruding objects,
reducing the chances of splits and snags.
Compared to the already formidable
current KO tire, the new KO2 is up to 20
percent stronger in this critical off-road
performance area1. The result is a tougher
tire as consumers take on trails of various
conditions.
• Longer Treadlife: The KO2 has a new
tread design and rubber formulation
that helps it last twice as long on gravel
and 15 percent longer on asphalt than
the previous tire 2, allowing off-road
enthusiasts to extend their adventures and
working professionals to get more use
out of the tire. The tread rubber has been
optimally blended to reduce chips and
tears on gravel. A new footprint shape
and interlocking tread design provide
more uniform wear over the long haul.
Special stone ejectors push objects out of

The KO2 is an all-season tire that will
carry the 3 Peak Mountain Snowflake
symbol, indicating that it exceeds the Rubber
Manufacturer Association’s severe snow
traction requirements.
Building on BFG’s long heritage as an
innovative all-terrain tiremaker, the KO2
incorporates technology developed and
tested through the brand’s legendary off-road
motorsports teams that have earned 80 offroad wins at races in the Baja peninsula – by
far the most by any tire brand.
The KO2 will be released initially in 12
sizes fitting a range of vehicles, including
Ford, Chevrolet, GMC, Dodge, Toyota and
Nissan pick-up trucks and SUV’s as well as
Plus Fitments for a wide variety of vehicles.
The MSRP for the tire starts at $222.

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W W W. S P O R T S M A N S G E A R M A G . C O M

Additional sizes will be released in 2015.
Tire Sizes (available November 1)
LT245/75R16 120/116S TL ALL-TERRAIN
T/A KO2 LRE
LT265/75R16 123/120R TL ALL-TERRAIN
T/A KO2 LRE
LT275/65R18 123/120R TL ALL-TERRAIN
T/A KO2 LRE
LT275/70R17 121/118R TL ALL-TERRAIN
T/A KO2 LRE
LT285/65R18 125/122R TL ALL-TERRAIN
T/A KO2 LRE
LT285/65R20 127/124S TL ALL-TERRAIN
T/A KO2 LRE
LT315/75R16 127/124R TL ALL-TERRAIN
T/A KO2 LRE
LT285/75R16 126/123R TL ALL-TERRAIN
T/A KO2 LRE
35X12.50R18LT 123R TL ALL-TERRAIN
T/A KO2 LRE
LT265/70R18 124/121R TL ALL-TERRAIN
T/A KO2 LRE
LT275/55R20 115/112S TL ALL-TERRAIN
T/A KO2 LRD
LT275/60R20 119/116S TL ALL-TERRAIN
T/A KO2 LRD
For more information, visit www.
BFGoodrichTires.com. SG
Improvement depends on the size of the tire purchased.
20% improvement based on internal sidewall splitting
test results derived from a simulated sidewall aggression
testing machine (patent pending US20120245859A1)
vs. BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO tire in size
LT265/70R17. Actual on-road results may vary.
2
Off-road results based on commissioned third-party
gravel endurance tests vs. BFGoodrich® All-Terrain T/A
KO tire size LT265/70R17. On-road results based on
internal wear tests vs. BFGoodrich® All-Terrain T/A KO
tire size LT265/70R17.
3
Based on internal subjective mud condition traction
tests using SAE ratings and converted to percentage by
competitive analysis programs vs. BFGoodrich® AllTerrain T/A KO tire in size LT 265/70R17. R
4
Based on commissioned third-party tests vs.
BFGoodrich® All-Terrain T/A KO tire in size LT
265/70R17. Standard GM Spin test was used.
1 

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Diamond Tread Dog Box
from Dee Zee Mfg.

Portable Refrigerator/Freezer
from Nautical Air

www.deezee.com

Hossair@aol.com

Handsfree Car Kit w/ Adapter
from Wagan Tech

www.wagan.com

Tail Decker

www.taildecker.com

Super Protectant
from Prolong Protectants

www.prolong.com

Hallmark Cutlery Bundle Pack
from Hallmark

www.hallmarkcutlery.com

Evolution Complete Brake Kit
from PowerStop

DiabloSport Trinity
from DiabloSport

www.powerstop.com

www.diablosport.com

Electric Turkey Fryer
and Seafood Kettle
from Masterbuilt

www.masterbuilt.com
Renegade XT
from Cross Tread

12V LED Spotlight
from Motor City Automotive

www.crosstread.com
24

www.spotlight-led.com

W W W. S P O RT S M A N S G E A R M A G . C O M 

Tool Box
from Phoenix USA

www.phoenixusa.com

Motor Head Grill
from FABgrills

www.fabgrills.com

Wheel Simulator of Your Choice
from Jae Eagle

Portable Searchlight
from Golight, Inc.
www.golight.com

www.jaeeagle.com

Fog Lights
from KC HiLites

4600 Series
from Bilstein

Matrix Angle
from ATS Design

www.bilsteinus.com

Custom Tool Box
from K&W Manufacturing

www.atsdesign.com

www.customtoolboxes.com

Vehicle Hitch-Haul
Leveling Kit
®
The Original
from
Lynx
Corporation
from Masterbuilt

www.lynxlevelers.com
www.masterbuilt.com

www.kchilites.com

W W W. S P O RT S M A N S G E A R M A G . C O M

Ride-Rite
from Firestone

www.firestoneip.com
25 

SUV Reviews

2015 Cadillac Escalade 4WD Premium
Class: Standard SUV
Fuel Economy: 14/21
Base Price: $82,795
From its introduction in 1999, the Cadillac
Escalade quickly became the standard
among luxury SUVs, with a formula of bold
design, powerful capability and luxurious
accommodations. The all-new 2015 Escalade
takes design and technical elements from
Cadillac’s product expansion to elevate the
brand’s signature SUV.
The fourth-generation Escalade has an
entirely new exterior design yet is instantly
recognizable. Inside, cut-and-sewn materials
and wood trim, chosen for elegance and
authenticity, combine with the latest
technologies to convey an exceptional level
of luxury.
The product line includes the standard
Escalade and the extended-length ESV
edition, which offers a 14-inch-longer (355
mm) wheelbase and approximately 20
inches (508 mm) more in overall length,
maximizing space for third-row passengers
and nearly double the cargo space behind the
third-row seat.
Luxury and Premium collections are
available in addition to the base models,
offering higher levels of content and
technology. And all models are offered with
2WD and 4WD drivetrains, as well as a new
6.2L V-8 engine that is more powerful and
more efficient than previous models.
In fact, it’s powerful enough to enable 0 to
60 mph performance in less than 6 seconds
– 5.96 seconds for Escalade 4WD and 5.98
seconds for Escalade ESV 2WD.
The new 6.2L engine also delivers an
EPA-estimated 21 mpg on the highway
(Escalade 2WD/4WD and Escalade ESV
2WD). That’s about 17 percent greater
efficiency on the highway than previous
models, and also about 17 percent greater
efficiency than Mercedes-Benz GL550 (18

mpg) – and nearly 24 percent greater than
Lexus LX 570 (17 mpg).

26

W W W. S P O R T S M A N S G E A R M A G . C O M

2015 Nissan Rogue SV FWD
Class: Small SUV
Fuel Economy: 26/33
Base Price: $24,490
Nissan Rogue’s robust exterior styling
is designed to stand out in its class.
The bold, sharp lines offer a sporty and
confident appearance. Exterior highlights
include halogen headlights with signature
LED daytime running lights, muscular front
fenders and hood, body color outside mirrors
with standard integrated turn signals and rear
spoiler. Also available are LED headlights
with auto levelizer, fog lights, privacy glass,
roof rails, heated outside mirrors, power
panoramic moonroof and a power rear
liftgate.
The premium look and feel continues
inside, with the interior designed to make
everyday activities a little easier. Rogue’s
ample interior roominess offers available
7-passenger seating with the optional

stadium-style, flat-fold 3rd row 50/50-split
bench seat. The reclining 40/20/40-split 2nd
row seat offers 2nd row legroom of 37.9
inches and 9.0 inches of fore/aft adjustability
with the EZ Flex® Seating System.
Rogue also offers the advanced DivideN-Hide® Cargo System providing 18
adjustable variations between the cargo and
occupant areas (two-row models). With the
2nd row seat folded down, the innovative,
class-exclusive*** Divide-N-Hide® Cargo
System creates a flat cargo area. When more
space is needed for carrying taller or bulkier
items, lowering the floorboard creates a
deeper cargo well.
Standard Rogue interior features include
“Zero Gravity” front seats, 5.0-inch center
meter Advanced Driver Assist™ Display,
RearView Monitor, Bluetooth® Handsfree Phone System, Streaming Audio via
Bluetooth® and Hands-free Text Messaging
Assistant (compatible smartphone required).
Also available are Quick Comfort™ heated
front seats, leather-appointed seats, heated
cloth front seats and Bose® audio system
with nine speakers. 

SUV Reviews

Available technology features include
NissanConnectSM with Navigation
and Mobile Apps, 7.0-inch color touchscreen display, Nissan Voice Recognition
for navigation and audio, NavTraffic and
NavWeather, SiriusXM® Travel Link
(SiriusXM® subscription required, sold
separately); class-exclusive**** Around
View® Monitor with Moving Object
Detection (MOD); Blind Spot Warning
(BSW); Lane Departure Warning (LDW);
and Forward Collision Warning (FCW).
Every 2015 Nissan Rogue is equipped
with a responsive 170-horsepower 2.5liter 4-cylinder engine, advanced Xtronic
transmission with Sport and Eco Mode
switches. Rogue is available with an intuitive
All-Wheel Drive system or front-wheel
drive.
2014 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport FWD 2.4
Class: Standard SUV
Fuel Economy: 20/27
Base Price: $24,950
Hyundai’s 2014 Santa Fe Sport earned
the distinction of “Family Car of the
Year” by Cars.com in their 2014 Lifestyle
Awards. Cars.com is an online destination
for car shoppers, offering information
from consumers and experts to help buyers
formulate opinions on what to buy, where to
buy and how much to pay for a car.
The competitively priced Santa Fe Sport
impressed Cars.com editors with its host
of high tech offerings and luxury features
that appeal to both parents and kids. Cars.
com editors also selected Hyundai’s full size
Santa Fe as a top nominee for their “Best Car
of 2014” award.
“The new Santa Fe lineup reinvents the
way we think about family vehicles, offering
kids and parents an optimal driver and
passenger experience,” said Scott Margason,
director, Product Planning, Hyundai Motor
America. “The 2014 model delivers premium
technology and safety features like Blind
28

Spot Detection and rear parking assistance
while still offering a suite of amenities the
entire family can enjoy. It’s the perfect
CUV for the modern day family on the go
and we’re pleased the Cars.com editors
recognized that.”
To qualify for Cars.com Lifestyle Awards,
a car first must be selected as a Best Bet. To
become a Best Bet, a car must have ratings
of Acceptable or higher in Insurance Institute
for Highway Safety crash tests; a reliability
rating of average or higher; strong ride and
handling; and average or better gas mileage
in its segment.
“With loads of high-tech and luxurious
features packed in at a very competitive
price, it would be hard for financially-savvy
and tech-appreciative families to pass over
the Santa Fe Sport,” said Kristin Varela,
Cars.com’s Chief Mom. “Our team of editors
took note and voted this small crossover right
to the top.”
The Santa Fe Sport features a flowing
interior and exterior look, designed for
family functionality and comfort. From the
available heated rear seats and eight-way
power driver seat, to a standard 40:20:40
split-folding rear seat back, both models

W W W. S P O R T S M A N S G E A R M A G . C O M

boast flexibility and a pleasant and safe
cabin for all. Upgraded safety features for
the 2014 model include, Vehicle Stability
Management (VSM), Electronic Stability
Control (ESC), Anti-lock Braking System,
Blind Spot Detection, rear parking
assistance, seven airbags and more. The 2014
model also comes standard with Hyundai’s
industry-leading Assurance Connected Care
program.
2015 GMC Yukon – 2WD SLT
Class: Standard SUV
Fuel Economy: 16/23
Base Price: $54,735
The all-new 2015 Yukon, Yukon XL
and flagship Yukon Denali models deliver
greater capability and refinement, greater
performance, new fold-flat rear seats and
a quieter interior. They’re also betterconnected, with next-generation IntelliLink.
Bold styling and advanced technologies
– including new safety and security
technologies – support Yukon’s greater
capability, while a more comprehensive list 

SUV Reviews

of standard features is designed to broaden
the appeal of one of the industry’s most
popular full-size SUV lineups.
The distinctive Denali models deliver an
exclusive package of design, performance
and upscale interior amenities.
A new family of advanced EcoTec3
engines delivers more horsepower and
torque, with the segment’s best V-8 fuel
economy, including EPA-estimated 23 mpg
highway with the standard 5.3L engine
(2WD models) – a nearly 10-percent
improvement over previous models.
Yukon Denali’s exclusive 6.2L engine
is the most powerful in the segment, with
420 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque.
30

It is matched with an all-new eight-speed
automatic transmission that enhances the
efficiency and refinement of GMC’s
redesigned flagship SUV.
Yukon and Yukon XL share design,
architectural and powertrain elements, but
Yukon XL has an approximately 14-inch
longer wheelbase and is approximately 20
inches longer overall, providing greater
legroom for third-row passengers and more
than twice the cargo room behind the thirdrow seat.
2015 BMW X4 xDrive35i
Class: Small SUV
Fuel Economy: 19/27
Base Price: $48,000
BMW recently confirmed the all-new
BMW X4 Sports Activity Coupe, a new
dimension of the mid-sized premium Sports
Activity Vehicle. Like the X6 before it, the
BMW X4 combines the performance and
capability of a premium Sports Activity
Vehicle, with the style and elegance of
traditional coupe. In the US, the X4 will be
offered with a choice of two TwinPower
W W W. S P O R T S M A N S G E A R M A G . C O M

Turbo engines. The X4 xDrive28i, with a
Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price
of $45,625 (including destination and
handling), will feature BMW’s awardwinning 240 horsepower 2.0-liter four
cylinder while the top-of-line X4 xDrive35i,
with an MSRP of $48,925 (including
destination and handling) will feature
BMW’s venerable 300 horsepower 3.0-liter
inline six. Both models include an 8-speed
Steptronic sport automatic transmission with
shift paddles as well as xDrive, BMW’s
intelligent all-wheel drive system.
The 2015 BMW X4 will make its world
debut at the New York International Auto
Show in April and begin production this
spring exclusively at BMW’s US production
facility in Spartanburg, South Carolina.
The new BMW X4 offers the premium
mid-size segment its first taste of the Sports
Activity Coupe concept. Like its larger
sibling, the BMW X6, the X4 offers a unique
and unmistakable presence on the road. The
X6 has demonstrated the appeal of the Sports
Activity Coupe concept with 250,000 sold to
date. SG 

New Products

Maui Jim’s New Seven Pools Sunglasses
are Inspired by Crystal Clear Waters
Ten miles south of Hana on the lower
slopes of Maui’s Haleakala National Park
are the famous Seven Pools of Oheo. The
crystal-clear waters are fed by natural
streams that start two miles inland and flow
into tiered waterfalls and natural swimming
pools. Inspired by the deep-blue water and
colorful flora and fauna around the Seven
Pools, Maui Jim has unveiled its newest
sunglasses by that name.
Seven Pools (Style $418, $229 US
MSRP) is the newest addition to Maui
Jim’s PureAir™ series of sunglasses that
feature the world’s clearest non-glass lenses
combined with a new ultra-light Grilamid
TR90LX frame technology that produces
some of the lightest sunglasses in the world.
All PureAir frames feature Maui Jim’s
proprietary MauiPure™ lenses which are
the world’s clearest non-glass lenses that
are ultra-lightweight, scratch- and impactresistant. The hybrid, injection-molded,
de-centered lenses are the lightest lens
material in the Maui Jim portfolio and are
optically clear. All Maui Jim sunglasses

use patented
PolarizedPlus2®
lens technology
cuts 99.9 percent of
glare and eliminates 100
percent of UVA and UVB rays
on both sides of each lens. A distinguishing
feature of all Maui Jim lenses is the rich
and vibrant color that you see. This is the
result of using three rare earth elements and
other treatments to white-balance Maui Jim’s
lenses, so the colors you see are pure and
true. MauiPure lenses also are protected
with waterproof and oleophobic coatings to
shed water and snow and to repel grease and
smudges.
Seven Pools offers full coverage for
midsize to large faces. These sunglasses
are distinguished by their translucent
details, especially on the temples and in the
fading color on the frame front. They are
ultra-comfortable frames because of their
lightness and flexibility. However, there is
nothing flimsy about their stability as a result
of strategically positioned rubber temple
inserts and adjustable Rabalon nose pads.
Seven Pools is an 8-base style with an eye

34

W W W. S P O R T S M A N S G E A R M A G . C O M

size of 62 mm, bridge
size of 16 mm, and
temple length of 125 mm.
Seven Pools come in Gloss
Black Fade with Neutral Grey lenses for
bright sunny days. For variable light
conditions, the Rootbeer Fade frame with
comes with HCL® Bronze lenses that
increase contrast on overcast days. For low
light conditions where you want brighter
vision, these styles come in Grey Fade with
Maui HT™ lenses that are a light palm green
color. And if you’re looking for a pop of
color, Purple Fade with Maui Rose® lenses
offer the highest amount of contrast while
making a dramatic statement. The PureAir
Collection is covered by the company’s
standard warranty. MauiPure lenses are
not available in prescription; however,
consumers who wish to have Maui Jim’s
authentic prescription lenses in a pair of
Seven Pools frames may do so with one of
Maui Jim’s other outstanding lens materials:
Maui Evolution® or polycarbonate. For more
information, visit MauiJim.com. 

New Products

Warrior Products
Part #: 4530
Application: 05-11 Tacoma
Description: Front Winch Bumper w/
D-Ring Mounts & Brush Guard
Warrior Products Front Winch Bumper
with D-Rings and Tubular Brush Guard for
2005 – 2011 Toyota Tacoma featuring an
integrated winch plate, d-ring mount, and
brush guard (also available without brush
guard). Designed, manufactured and welded
in the USA from high quality, heavy duty,
3/16” and 11 gauge steel. This bumper also
features a unique light plate system that
allows for use of the OEM Tacoma fog lights
or aftermarket LED lights. A complete fog
light delete kit is also available. Suggested
retail price starts around $1,100.00 for the
non-brush guard version.

Part #: 4530

W W W. S P O R T S M A N S G E A R M A G . C O M

35 

New Products

Part #: 4550

Part #: 4720

Part #: 4810

Part #: 4860

36

W W W. S P O R T S M A N S G E A R M A G . C O M

Part #: 4550
Application: 2005-2015 Toyota Tacoma
Description: Rear Bumper w/ D-Ring
Mounts
Warrior Products Rear Bumper with
D-Rings for 2005 – 2015 Toyota Tacoma
featuring an integrated d-ring mounts and
lockable storage compartment. Designed,
manufactured and welded in the USA from
high quality, heavy duty, 3/16” and 11
gauge steel. This bumper also features a
unique light plate system that allows for
use of aftermarket LED lights. This bumper
includes provisions for aftermarket LED
lights. Suggested retail price starts around
$860.00.
Part #: 4720
Application: 2005-2015 Tacoma – Double
Cab Short Bed Only
Description: Bolt-on Side Steps
Warrior Products Side Steps for the
2005 – 2015 Double Cab Short Bed Toyota
Tacoma feature an easy to install, bolton design that attaches to existing OEM
mounting points underneath the vehicle.
These steps have dimple-dyed top plates
for added strength and traction when
getting in and out of the vehicle. Designed,
manufactured and welded in the USA
from high quality, heavy duty, 2” x 1-1/2”
rectangular tube and 1-1/2” round tube steel.
Suggested retail price starts around $395.00.
Part #: 4810
Application: 2005-2015 Tacoma
Description: Economy Bed Rack System
Warrior Products Economy Bed Rack for
2005 – 2015 Toyota Tacoma featuring an
easy to install, low profile, bolt-on design.
The Bed Rack bolts into the OEM bed rail
tracks and can stand up to the weight of
a large spare tire, camping gear or even a
roof top tent. The size and spacing of the
cross bars are intended to accommodate
most Thule and Yakima universal accessory
mounts for bikes, kayaks, skis, snowboards,
etc. Designed, manufactured and welded
in the USA from high quality, heavy duty,
1-1/4” round tube and 1” square tube steel.
Suggested retail price starts around $550.00.
Part #: 4860
Application: 2005-2015 Tacoma – Double
Cab Only
Description: Platform Roof Rack System
Warrior Products Platform Roof Rack
System for 2005 – 2015 Toyota Tacoma
featuring an easy to install, low profile, bolton design. The Platform Rack bolts into
the OEM roof rails and can stand up to the
weight of a large spare tire, camping gear
or even a roof top tent. The platform is 

New Products
also a great place for mounting aftermarket
lighting. The size and spacing of the cross
bars are intended to accommodate most
Thule and Yakima universal accessory
mounts for bikes, kayaks, skis, snowboards,
etc. Designed, manufactured and welded
in the USA from high quality, heavy duty,
1-1/4” round tube and 1” square tube steel.
Suggested retail price starts around $550.00.
Check out http://www.warriorproducts.com
for more information on this exciting new
Made in the USA product.
Bolt Offers Lock Series for 2015 Ford
F-150 Side Cut Key Design
The patented, breakthrough one-key lock
technology of the BOLT(r) series of locks
by STRATTEC(r) Security Corporation will
be available to work with the side cut, highsecurity key design of the 2015 Ford F-150.
BOLT locks feature > patented technology
that allows them to be programmed to a
single vehicle key, providing convenient
access to multiple locks used on trailers,
tools and gear.
The entire series of BOLT locks is
compatible with the new Ford F-150 side cut
key and includes:

• The weatherproof BOLT Coupler Pin
Lock is designed to secure trailers when
not in tow, fits the 5/8-inch Ford F-150
coupler, and slides easily along stainless
steel pin.
• B O LT ’s 5 / 8 - i n c h R e c e i v e r L o c k
prevents theft of trailer ball mount or
accessories, features a durable, solid
stainless steel lock shutter designed to
keep out elements and debris, and a plate
tumbler sidebar that prevents picking and
bumping.
• The rugged Padlock 2.0, for a range of
applications, features a chrome-plated
hardened steel shackle and a double

W W W. S P O R T S M A N S G E A R M A G . C O M

ball bearing locking mechanism, made
of weatherproof, corrosion-resistant
automotive grade stainless steel.
• Flexible BOLT Cable Locks are made
from six-foot long 1/4-inch black vinyl
coated coiled cable, feature a crushresistant body shell and an auto-return
spring which locks automatically when
key is removed, securing equipment,
cabinets, storage compartments and
more.
• The BOLT Toolbox Latch Retrofit Kit,
which enables a toolbox cylinder retrofit,
helps protect and secure toolboxes with
an automotive-grade cylinder. Comes
with an original factory handle and works
with DeeZee(r), UWS Truck Accessories
and other toolbox brands featuring a
paddle-style handle.
BOLT locks come with a limited lifetime
warranty. Find a BOLT retailer by using the
zip code finder, www.boltlock.com/retailfinder or purchase from the BOLT website
at http://www.boltlock.com/shop. BOLT
locks are also available at 4-Wheel Parts
stores, Advance Auto Parts, Basspro.com,
Cabela’s, Canadian Tire, Pep Boys, and
Summit Racing.com. For more information,
visit www.boltlock.com.SG

37 

Car Reviews

2015 Audi Q3 2.0T Quattro Tiptronic
Class: Compact Cars
Fuel Economy: 20/28
Base Price: $34,600
Since its market launch in fall 2011,
the Q3 model series has been a successful
model for the Audi brand. But Audi is also
constantly improving good and successful
models. New innovations for the A3 are
below:
Engine
The three TFSI and three TDI clean diesel
fourcylinder engines boast higher output
combined with reduced fuel consumption.
CO2 emissions have been reduced by as
much as 17 percent. They displace 1.4
or 2.0 liters and produce between 88 kW
(120 hp) and 162 kW (220 hp). All are
t u r b o c h a rg e d , d i r e c t - i n j e c t i o n u n i t s
and comply with the limits of the Euro 6
emission standard. These consumption and
CO2 reductions are made possible in part
by the Audi cylinder on demand technology.
Thanks to their efficiency, the 1.4 TFSI COD
and the 2.0 TDI bear the “Audi ultra” badge.

Audi designers have honed the details of the
coupelike lines with the characteristic wraparound tailgate. Dominating horizontal lines
up front and in the rear underscore the width
and give the Q3 an expressive design.
2015 Audi A3 Sedan TDI FWD S tronic
Class: Sub Compact Cars
Fuel Economy: 31/43
Base Price: $32,600
The safety of the Audi A3 Sedan and Audi
S3 Sedan gained new top rating from the
two most important arbiters of automotive
safety in the U.S. market. The U.S. National
Highway Traffic Safety Administration
(NHTSA) gave the two cars its highest
overall crash safety rating, a 5-Star
designation, and the Insurance Institute for
Highway Safety (IIHS) chose the Audi A3
sedan as a Top Safety Pick +.
In December, the Audi models earned
the highest crash-test rating available from

Chassis
The chassis of the redesigned Audi Q3
combines agile handling with supreme
safety, and comprehensive fine-tuning
has enhanced comfort even further. Audi
drive select enables the driver to adjust key
technology modules, including the optional
active dampers, to suit his or her personal
preferences. Wheels range in size from 16
to 20 inches in diameter, and the suspension
has been tuned for high rolling comfort.
Hilldescent assist is available as an option.
Design
The premium character of the redesigned
Audi Q3 is apparent at first glance. The
40

W W W. S P O R T S M A N S G E A R M A G . C O M

the NHTSA New Car Assessment Program,
which provides consumers with information
about crash protection and rollover safety
of new vehicles beyond what is required by
federal law. The vehicles are rated from 1
Star to 5 Stars.
IIHS selected the Audi A3 as a Top
Safety Pick +, its highest designation, for
models equipped with the Audi pre sense
front system. The system helps detect
when the driver is making an emergency
maneuver and prepares the vehicle and its
occupant-restraint systems in advance of a
possible collision. Pre sense front is part of
the model’s Advanced Technology Package,
which also includes Audi active lane assist
and Audi adaptive cruise control with stop
& go.
IIHS applies its highest distinction only
to vehicles that have an available frontcrash-prevention system as well as a good
or acceptable rating in the organization’s 

Car Reviews

challenging small-overlap front-crash test
and a good rating in each of the Institute’s
four other crashworthiness evaluations –
moderate overlap front, side, roof strength
and head restraints.
The Audi A3 and S3 offer several
advanced technology features that are
new to the entry-luxury sedan segment,
including standard Audi pre sense basic. The
technologies also include Audi secondary
collision brake assist, which automatically
brakes the car after a collision to prevent
another collision with nearby or oncoming
traffic.
2014 Lexus 9000A ES350 4-DR Sedan
Class: Midsize Car
Fuel Economy: 21/31
Base Price: $36,470
The Lexus ES sedan line has a history
of reshaping the entry-luxury segment, and
the sixth-generation ES models introduced
for 2013 raised the benchmark again, with
increased interior room, a new hybrid, higher
fuel efficiency in the V6 model and even
more flagship-type amenities.
While the ES 300h hybrid has
understandably taken the efficiency
spotlight with its 40-mpg combined EPA
fuel economy estimates, the ES 350, with a
268-horsepower V6, remains the sales leader
in the line and is itself highly efficient, with
a 31-mpg EPA highway fuel economy rating.
New for 2014, the ES 350 gains LED fog
lamps and adds the availability of bamboo
interior trim, which was already offered in
the ES 300h. In addition, customers who
do not prefer leather can now get heated/
ventilated seats in perforated NuLuxe trim.
Genuine leather-trim is available, as is semianiline leather for a more refined look and
feel.
Long a leader in user technology that’s
easy to use, Lexus has integrated Sirii® Eyes
Free Mode, with technology licensed from
Apple®, in the 2014 ES 350. Compatible
with the iPhone® 4S and iPhone 5 models
forward, Siri lets you call contacts, select and
play music from iTunes®, get turn-by-turn
navigation through Siri and Apple maps, and

W W W. S P O R T S M A N S G E A R M A G . C O M

41 

Car Reviews

much more. To help you keep your eyes on
the road and hands on the wheel, Siri can
read notifications, read calendar information
and allow you to add reminders, calendar
appointments and notes.
2015 Jetta TDI SE

Class: Compact Cars
Fuel Economy: 31/45
Base Price: $24,075
In America, the Jetta has held the crown
as Volkswagen’s best-selling car for many
years, a title that has continued to this
day thanks to the success of the sixthgeneration model, released in 2011. Now
for 2015, Volkswagen presents its refined,
redesigned Jetta.
Following the updates that arrived with
the 2014 model, which included a 1.8-liter
turbocharged EA888 engine replacing the
2.5-liter five-cylinder unit, the 2015 Jetta
brings with it a fresh new face and some

42

W W W. S P O R T S M A N S G E A R M A G . C O M

important updates underneath. The subtly
redesigned exterior not only provides the
Jetta with a crisp new look, but also helps
increase the overall efficiency of the car by
improving the aerodynamics. Additionally,
the 2015 Jetta features an updated interior,
a new diesel engine offering, and a host of
newly available driver assistance systems.
Under the hood, the latest Jetta
continues to offer three four-cylinder
gasoline engines (a 2.0-liter naturally
aspirated engine, as well as 1.8-liter and
2.0-liter versions of the turbocharged
EA888 engine), a 1.4-liter turbocharged
hybrid unit, and a new 2.0-liter
turbocharged EA288 TDI® Clean Diesel
engine. 
At launch, Volkswagen will also offer
the Jetta Sport model. This limitededition, athletic take on the 1.8T SE
trim will offer a sport suspension, front
sport seats, RNS® 315 navigation with
rearview camera, two-tone 17-inch wheels,
foglights, and VW Car-Net® connected
car features. When paired with a fivespeed manual transmission, the Sport
starts at $20,895; $21,995 with a six-speed
automatic transmission. 

Car Reviews

2014 Toyota Prius v
Class: Midsize Wagon
Fuel Economy: 44/40
Base Price: $30,395
In the Prius v, generous interior space
and good visibility are complemented by
a high seating position, ample head room
and a roomy 35.9 inches of rear seat leg
room. A low, wide-opening rear hatch
accesses 34.3 cubic feet of cargo space
behind the 60/40 split folding rear seats,
which expands to a generous 67.3 cubic feet
with the seatbacks lowered. The fold-flat
front-passenger seat allows the vehicle to
carry long items. Sliding second row seats
allow for easier ingress and egress and rearstorage flexibility, with a 45-degree recline
for greater comfort. 
The center-mounted instrument panel is
a visually succinct, space-efficient design

that is also easy to use. As with other Prius
models, the driving controls including push
button start, parking switch, drive-by-wire
shift toggle, and driving mode buttons are
immediately at hand. Instrument-panel
controls, including a single dial automatic
climate control, provide an advanced look
and user-friendly function. 
The cabin features a number of storage
spaces, including dual glove boxes, a
center console storage box and utility tray

and five cup holders in large and medium
sizes. Bottle holders are built into the front
and rear door pockets, and most models
feature an overhead storage space suitable
for sunglasses. In addition to the larger
main luggage compartment, there are
storage units built into the sides and under
the cargo platform for storing equipment
such as car wash items or gloves. A special
space for umbrellas is located under the rear
seats.

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Car Reviews
An available seat material called SofTex
is designed for easy cleaning, resisting spills
and wear resistance in a family vehicle that
could see heavy use on a daily basis. Soft to
the touch, SofTex is lighter than leather and
other traditional leatherette-type materials,
and its production generates 99 percent fewer
volatile organic compounds (VOCs) than
conventional synthetic leather production.
2015 Hyundai Sonata Limited
Class: Large Cars
Fuel Economy: 24/35
Base Price: $26,525
The all-new Hyundai Sonata won the
2015 BEST Economic Performance award
from the Automotive Science Group (ASG).
The award recognizes the model that holds
the lowest cost of ownership in its class. In
addition, the Sonata and Santa Fe Sport were
honored as BEST 5 All-Around Performance
models for achieving the highest combined
social, environmental and economic
performance scores.
“The Automotive Science Group
recognizes Hyundai’s continued commitment
to innovation, while holding corporate social
responsibility initiatives as fundamental

pillars of product development,” said
Colby Self, managing director of the
Automotive Science Group. “Maintaining
these commitments, while also producing
vehicles that are the preferred economic
choice for consumers, is indeed a noteworthy
achievement.”
The Sonata was honored as a BEST 5
selection in a group of 64 full-size cars,
while the Santa Fe Sport is a BEST 5
selection in a group of 132 mid-size SUVs.

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ASG rated 2015 model-year vehicles
available in the North American market
by performing data-driven automobile
assessments based on thousands of
algorithmic calculations and data points to
determine the award winners. ASG uses
its proprietary Automotive Performance
Index™, which is a combination of
conventional specifications along with
environmental, economic and social
performance indicators.
“Sonata and Santa Fe Sport being
recognized by the Automotive Science
Group as stand out vehicles in their segments
demonstrates Hyundai’s commitment to
deliver an exceptional lineup for car shoppers
to choose from – whether they are in the
market for a sedan or a crossover,” said Mike
O’Brien, vice president of corporate and
product planning, Hyundai Motor America. 
The all-new seventh-generation 2015
Sonata offers a more refined look through a
new Fluidic Sculpture 2.0 design language,
stiffer body structure, better ride quality,
reduced noise, vibration and harshness and
advanced safety and convenience features.
Sonata truly democratizes the premium
design and convenient technology of the
Genesis sedan for the mid-size class. SG 

JoDog

T

he X-Tend-A-Step® is the only
telescoping hitch step that allows you
access to the bed of your truck/SUV
when the tailgate is down. The 18” x 4” Heavy
Duty step surface telescopes away from the
back of the vehicle creating a step in or out of
the vehicle when the tailgate is down. When
not in use The X-Tend-A-Step® stores in a
collapsed position inside your receiver right
below your bump operating a Full BRAKE
Light and Turn Signal System. The X-TendA-Step® aids in added protection for collision
avoidance and driver awareness. A Theftdeterrent lock and lock bracket set is included.
SG
Fits most 2” hitch receivers
Heavy Duty 18” x 4” anti-slip Utility Step
Full Brake light and Turn signal System
Theft deterrent lock & lock bracket *included
Holds 400+ lbs

*3 Models XT1100, XT2100, XT3100
Bumper protector
3rd Brake light system right below the bumper
Collision avoidance & Bumper protector

W W W. S P O R T S M A N S G E A R M A G . C O M

45 

Industry News

Xtremeplus’ Willy Alcaraz Wins Fourth
Dakar in Polaris RZR XP 1000
Willy Alcaraz made it an unprecedented
fourth time he’d win the Dakar and the third
time riding solo, this time in a RZR XP 1000.
This year ’s Dakar Rally was 9,000
Kilometers, spanning three countries with
140 competitors taking on some of the
toughest geography offered in an off-road
race. Alcaraz, similar to the bike riders,
would run the race without a windshield
and faced the heat, cold, rain, hail, salt,
temperatures below zero, altitude, and at the
end of the race, a storm and mud. He would
not only take his class but also finish in 46th
place out of the 67 remaining cars in the car
category.
“I am exhausted! This Dakar was hard
until the very end, but I am happy to get the
fourth victory in T3 and the third in Solo,”
said Alcaraz. “At the end, in spite of the bad
weather, I was able to manage my distance
and make it to the end. The Polaris RZR
XP 1000 is a well-made machine that has
been magnified by the preparation of one of
the most professional workshops in Pont de
Vaux. I want to thank Nico, Manu, Thierry,
Francis, Sylvain, Alexis, you guys do an
extraordinary work every night to make the
RZR as new, and in a very friendly
environment and good humor which makes
me feel better when I get to the bivouac
every evening. Also, I want to thank Marco
Piana, Norberto Cangani and Steven Griener
in the T4 truck (race truck), because we
know that in case of a problem, they are not
very far.”
Along with Alcaraz, Xtreme Plus’ Team
Munk/Delaunay, also in a RZR XP 1000,
would take second in the T3 category and
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Industry News
55th overall. For a race recap, Dakar fans
can check out Polaris’ new Dakar race page
at http://www.polaris.com/es-al/rzr-side-byside/dakar.
Innovative, Adaptable ArcRV and
ArcHaus from Let’s Go Aero Offer
Expanded RV Living and Storage Space
Outdoor lifestyle experts Lets Go Aero
introduce an innovative way to expand RV
living and storage space with the adaptable
new ArcRV and ArcHaus modular shelters.
These versatile designs allow users to
conveniently add a covered side room,
breezeway or a completely enclosed gear
storage area or pet’s sleeping quarters to
RVs, truck campers or vans.
These unique solutions were developed
by Lets Go Aero, Inc., creator of gear
management solutions for the automotive
and outdoor recreation industries. “The
ArcRV and its related ArcHaus family of
products were created to be a virtual “Swiss
Army Knife type of solution for a range of
RV and outdoor applications,” said Marty
Williams, president of Let’s Go Aero.
Easy to set up and transport, the ArcRV
was engineered to be a durable extension

W W W. S P O R T S M A N S G E A R M A G . C O M

47 

Industry News

that fits snugly around the doorway or rear
area of most RVs. Its sloped, conical shape
is 10 feet wide and six and a half feet high

in the front, rising up to meet the RV door
area with a height of eight feet nine inches. A
sturdy lower valance panel securely attaches

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to the space below the RV door to create a
completely enclosed area for gear storage or
to create a secure and separate living quarters
for pets.
Constructed of 190T ripstop polyester
fabric with a 2,000 mm polyurethane
coating, one of the highest-quality water and
UV-resistant fabric materials among tents,
and with rugged powder-coated steel and
fiberglass poles, the ArcRV is designed for
staying dry in the heaviest of rains and for
years of traveling convenience.
In addition to the ArcRV, Lets Go Aero
offers the ArcHaus, a modular walk-in, walkout tent shelter that can be connected to the
ArcRV or set up independently. ArcHaus
features the same high-quality construction
as the ArcRV, and can be configured with
two zip-on panels for full enclosure with
large screens or used as a sun shade canopy
by removing one or both door panels. This
10-foot long, six-foot wide and six foot
six-inches high shelter can be attached to
the ArcRV with the Zipper Mate, a zip-on
panel option for increased living space or
gear storage. To learn more about ArcRv
and ArcHaus, visit LetsGoAero.com, or call
877-GO-4-AERO. SG