know I’ve spoken about the year-span coverage of the trucks featured in CTP—like expanding to the NBS models while still focusing on the post-’40s trucks that make up the bulk of the “classic” criteria. But we (me) are about to test some unfamiliar waters.

Chances are, if you drive a classic truck, you also drive a late-model truck, regardless of whether that translates into a brand-new GMC Denali, Ford Raptor, or a RAM TRX. We’re truck people to the core, right? Well, for me, late-model doesn’t translate into anything that isn’t LS-equipped—my 2011 GMC Sierra is probably as new a truck as I’m ever going to own. Unfortunately, when it comes to factory replacement parts, it’s slowly becoming a “classic” as GM slowly phases out parts and accessories. Be that as it may, I treat it more like an early GMC by adding quality aftermarket components.

While noticeably different than the earlier-era Chevy and GMC 1/2-tons, the ’07-14s do share many basic mechanical features, from the drivetrain to the brakes and suspension, and seeing as many of us use this era truck as a tow vehicle or, as in my case, a daily driver, in the very back of the magazine (beginning in the October issue) I’m going to devote some pages to Later Late-Model upgrades, kind of like Truckin’ back in the day, except reverse thinking!

Don’t go getting your chonies in a wad just yet—this isn’t a permanent nor regular thing … we’re just testing the waters, as I mentioned above. I don’t need to be told that a 2011 model isn’t a “classic” by year designation definition—at least not for another 10 years. But the more events and functions I go to and see later late-model trucks commingling with the early classics, well, I figured let’s give it a shot and see if anything sticks to the wall (besides copies of the magazine thrown by disgruntled readers!).

As always, my email is listed above. Feel free to contact me with your gripes, your praise, or anything but unsolicited sales material! I’m all ears, er, eyes, and would love to hear your thoughts on this, or anything else CTP-related.

In the meantime, keep your eyes peeled for a proper later late-model coilover front suspension upgrade as well as a 17-inch disc brake swap.