The pure joys of six wheels, six-wheel drive and 1,000bhp
For those about to rock, for those who don’t really see an EV in their buying plans just yet, or maybe for those who are looking for their best bet after the apocalypse, may we present this month’s eye candy?
Having featured the six-wheeler Mercedes G-wagen, NZ4WD now presents America’s contribution to trans-Atlantic détente. Readers of a green persuasion or nervous disposition may wish to look away.
First: the Czech-built Bureko 6X6 is a three-axle take on the Chevrolet Silverado. It blends elements of Silverado 1500 and 2500 to create this behemoth (below).
Using an existing pickup as a starting point means the Bureko keeps all of the Bowtie truck’s interior amenities while offering a radically different look on the outside.
There are no electric motors in the drivetrain. Power comes from the Silverado’s 6.2-liter petrol V8, that starts with 313kW (420 bhp) in stock trim. Bureko offers a variety of power upgrades by adding a supercharger and other components, including versions with 447kW, 485kW, 522kW, 597kW, and 746kW (that’s 1,000 bhp).
Buyers can specify the truck in double cab or crew cab. The longest body is 6.2 metres.
For comparison, the Mercedes G63 6X6 is more than 300mm shorter.
The Bureko 6X6’s interior is identical to a Silverado. Leather upholstery comes standard here. Buyers can even specify an optional driver assistance package with lane keep assist, automatic headlights, automatic emergency braking, park assist, and forward collision alert.
Then last month came news of a 6X6 born in the USA. From the skunk-works of longtime Chev-enhancer Hennessey comes the Goliath (above), directly pitched at the Mercedes and Bureko versions. Based on the current Silverado – and on the Trail Boss launched in New Zealand back in January.