6 popular and reliable pickup trucks to purchase
If one frequently takes a weekend trip to a lake, a road trip through multiple states, or hauls loads for work or passion projects, it is advisable to consider buying a pickup truck. However, the vast pool of automobile brands and models could make it challenging to find the ideal pickup truck. If one cannot figure out which option to go with, here are six top pickup trucks that might be the right fit.
Ford F-150
The Ford F-150 is a long-standing and successful competitor where pickup trucks are concerned. The vehicle starts at about $38,000 and is the ideal combination for a modern buyer interested in a feature-rich workhorse. The pickup truck comes with several engine options. The base model features a 325 hp turbocharged 2.7-liter V6, while customers could also pick the 400 hp hybrid powertrain that includes a twin-turbo 3.5-liter V-6 and an electric motor. All engines come with a 10-speed automatic transmission. As for its ability to haul loads, the Ford F-150 has a maximum towing capacity of about 13,000 pounds, with a payload capacity of about 2400 pounds.
Chevrolet Silverado 1500
Chevrolet makes some of the best vehicles in the industry, and the Silverado 1500 is one of its crown jewels. Customers looking for a durable pickup truck should note that this one comes with a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA. A few notable elements include its standard forward-collision warning and automated emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert, and lane departure warning and lane-keeping assist. Under the hood, the base variant of this full-size pickup truck sports a 2.7-liter four-cylinder TurboMax engine capable of churning out 310 hp and about 430 lb-ft of torque. Customers could also pick the Duramax® 3.0L Turbo-Diesel engine that delivers about 305 hp and up to 495 lb. ft of torque, with two-wheel-drive, which features a maximum towing capacity of up to 13,000 lbs. Coming to the price, the Chevrolet Silverado 1500 starts at around $36,000.
RAM 1500
Starting at $38,000, the RAM 1500 is a reliable pickup truck in its segment. The vehicle is perfect for long journeys with its standard coil spring or optional air spring suspension that offers a comfortable ride to the driver and passengers. The RAM 1500 features 305 hp 3.6 liter V-6 and 395 hp 5.7 liter V-8 gasoline powertrains paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Furthermore, both of these engines get assistance from a 48-volt hybrid system. There’s also a 5.7 liter Hemi V-8 on offer for those who desire extensive power. RAM does well to impress where interiors are concerned. Customers are often attracted to its premium features, such as heated and ventilated seats and a panoramic sunroof. The brand also offers one of the top infotainment systems and connectivity features, including a standard 8.4-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. The Ram 1500 is also one of the safest options to consider with a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA.
Toyota Tacoma
Those interested in a mid-size truck could consider the Toyota Tacoma. The base model starts at about $32,000 and sports an i-FORCE 2.4L turbocharged engine capable of generating about 228 hp. The pickup truck also includes adequate safety elements such as automatic high-beam headlamps, forward-collision warning and automated emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and lane-departure warning, and lane-keeping assist. As for its hauling capabilities, the automatic-equipped iForce powertrain is said to tow about 6500 pounds or haul up to 1705 pounds of payload. Most Toyota Tacomas feature a 7.0-inch digital gauge cluster. However, customers could go for the available 12.3-inch all-digital unit.
GMC Sierra 1500
GMC turns more than a few heads with its Sierra 1500 offering. The vehicle is ideal for those who prefer better customizability. The full-size pickup truck is available as a single cab, double cab, or four-door crew cab, with a price of $39,000. The base trim also comes with a turbocharged 2.7-liter four-cylinder capable of churning out about 310 hp and 420 lb. ft. of torque that functions seamlessly with an eight-speed automatic transmission. On the inside, one could opt for a 13.4-inch touchscreen that runs the infotainment system. This setup comes standard with wireless Apple CarPlay and AndroidAuto. There’s also built-in Google software to let users access an app store, maps, and voice assistant.
Jeep Gladiator
Most pickup trucks from Jeep are unique in their way. The Gladiator is a mid-size pickup truck offering one of the best build-quality among other competitors. The automobile allows customers to remove the top and doors and a fold-down windshield to convert it into a dedicated off-road pickup. The Gladiator has a 3.6-liter V-6 under the hood, which generates about 285 hp and 260 lb. ft. of torque. This pairs with a standard six-speed manual transmission or an optional eight-speed automatic. Based on the setup customers go with, the pickup truck can tow about 7,700 pounds, whereas the base model can still haul an impressive 4400-pound trailer. As for loading it up, the Jeep Gladiators can carry between 1105 and 1700 pounds of payload. Those considering the Wrangler should know the base variant sells for a starting price of about $40,000.