Modern trucks are entirely different from their predecessors. Gone are the rough and rugged work trucks of the past with bench seats, three-speed automatics, and the ride quality of a Sherman tank. Trucks that are incredibly luxurious, very comfortable, and still plenty capable have replaced them. Yes, we miss the simplicity and easy to fix nature of the trucks of yore. But for something to drive every day or across the country, a new truck is hard to beat.

While modern trucks have made huge strides, they haven’t necessarily become more rugged. The on-going quest to maximize gas mileage have led to thin sheet metal and flimsy bumpers. While that might be great at the gas pump, a front bumper with the strength of a soft pretzel isn’t going to cut it in the dirt. That is why many ditch the factory front bumper the first chance they get and replace it with something significantly stouter.

One of the latest bumpers to come out is the new Matrix series from Fab Fours. Previously, Fab Fours offered the non-winch Vengeance Series for those that wanted a bumper high and tight to the body. The bigger and bulkier Premium series was the one to get if you wanted the capability to mount a winch. Now, Fab Fours has combined the best aspects of both to create the Matrix series. It gives a slim, tight fit to the body while allowing for the use of a Warn Zeon 12,000 lb. (or lower) winch.

Other features include a built-in center mount for a 30-inch light bar along with side mounting slots and tabs for additional lighting. Removable inserts allow for different colors and customization. Sensor holes are integrated into the bumpers to retain the use of collision avoidance systems. The bumpers are plenty stout constructed from 3/16-inch plate steel. They also feature the aggressive style Fab Fours is known for, come with a two-stage powder coat, and are built in the USA. The Matrix series is available for late-model Ford, GM, Ram, and Jeep trucks.