Top 5 Trucks For This Year
Even though more and more Americans are driving SUV's and crossovers, there are still plenty of people out there who won't settle for anything less than a great pickup truck.
Even though more and more Americans are driving SUV's and crossovers, there are still plenty of people out there who won't settle for anything less than a great pickup truck.
Long seen by many as a symbol of what makes America great, today's pickup trucks ride as smoothly as many passenger vehicles and get comparable gas mileage, yet are nevertheless tough enough to tow thousands of pounds and haul all types of cargo. All of this, combined with many design transformations that have turned today's trucks into very stylish and technologically sophisticated vehicles, adds up to a winning combination for many drivers. If you're in the market for a new truck this year, here are a few of the best ones you may want to take a look at when you visit a dealership.
As the best-selling pickup truck in America for decades, the F-150 can be a work truck during the day and still clean up enough to take you out on the town at night. Able to tow 13,200 pounds, it comes with the option of a turbo-diesel engine as well as a V6 engine that allows it to get fuel mileage of 16-25 mpg. To give buyers more options, you can even choose from several different trims, cabins, and bed lengths. Offering as much as 450 horsepower, there's little doubt the F-150 will meet your needs and then some.
If you've loved the Jeep Wrangler and always wished you could turn your Wrangler into a truck, Jeep has fulfilled your wishes by offering the Gladiator. Although its bed is only five feet long, you'll still have plenty of room to haul almost anything. Although its starting price of $35,000 may feel a bit steep for some buyers, it comes with standard four-wheel drive, all-terrain tires, and monotube shocks that make it a great truck to take off-road. With its roomy cabin that has the look and feel of a Wrangler, the Gladiator is indeed a road warrior.
Whether you ultimately select the 2500HD or 3500HD, you're getting a truck that is considered to be the F-150's closest rival in terms of looks and performance. If you want a truck that will provide heavy-duty performance on a farm or elsewhere, the 3500HD is a popular choice. If you go for standard options, you'll get a 6.0L V8 Vortec that can tow up to 14,100 pounds. However, if you need even more power, you might want to look at the 6.6L V8 turbo-diesel. With this engine, you'll be able to tow a staggering 23,100 pounds.
Redesigned, the Ram 2500 is known for its smooth and comfortable ride. Though it does not offer an extended cab, it does offer the crew cab and a Mega Cab that is referred to as "cavernous" and offering plenty of leg and headroom for even the tallest of passengers. Comparable in starting price with other similar trucks at $35,090, you can get it with a bed that measures slightly over eight feet in length, an engine that gives you 410 horsepower, and a towing capacity approaching 20,000 pounds.
Finally, more and more people have flocked to mid-sized trucks in recent years, with the Toyota Tacoma leading the way. Like most Toyota vehicles, the Tacoma has a reputation for reliability and a strong resale value, making it an ideal choice for those who want a vehicle they can keep for many years. If you want the maximum towing capacity of 6,800 pounds, you'll want to opt for the 3.5L V6 engine that is responsive and powerful. Affordably priced at just over $27,000, you can also choose the Access Cab option, four-wheel drive, and even surround view and underbody cameras that enhance off-road visibility when navigating winding mountain roads.
Since each of these trucks offer many attractive options, it may take a few fun test drives before you finally make your decision. However, whether you select a mid-sized truck like the Tacoma or a classic bestseller like the Ford F-150, there is little doubt you will get a truck that is worth the price and able to handle whatever comes its way.
Author: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice regarding health or finances. It is not intended to endorse any individual or company. This article is AI-generated and may contain inaccuracies or unreliable information. Readers should consult a qualified professional for personal advice.