Widely considered the first real pickup truck, the Daimler Motor-Lastwagen (lastwagen directly translates as load cart, or load vehicle, but we’d say truck or lorry) first appeared in 1896. But in the 21st century, America is where the pickup truck has truly made its home, and whatever your budget, there are now several options to choose from in varying sizes and with diverse equipment offerings.
Some trucks are old-school in their approach to practicality, some have adopted the relatively novel technology of electrification, and some live on both gas and electricity. And there are still some diesel options, too.
In this article, we’re going to discuss the best pickup trucks for under $40,000 (and we totally understand if you take issue with calling some of these options trucks), the best pickup trucks between $40,000 and $70,000, and the best pickup trucks for $70,000 or more. We’re not necessarily only going to focus on base MSRP; we’re going to consider what is best at each budget level, even if that means configuring a relatively cheap truck heavily enough to qualify – as long as that truly is the best choice. Without any further delay, let’s jump in.
Best Pickup Truck Under $40,000: Toyota Tacoma
Toyota
The Toyota Tacoma has an immense fanbase, and that is reflected by the wealth of aftermarket upgrades on offer, but you needn’t visit a third party. The 2026 Toyota Tacoma is beloved for its legendary reliability reputation, which supports strong resale values, and thanks to the new TNGA-F platform, it rides and handles better than before, blending ruggedness and comfort with style. Thanks to this platform, we now have access to an i-FORCE MAX hybrid powertrain that is powerful, torquey, and efficient. Along with several safety features on all trims, the Tacoma is one of the finest all-rounders for pickup trucks under $40,000.
Toyota
The base trim starts at just $32,445 (plus $1,745 for destination and delivery), but you can easily double that with the TRD Pro and Trailhunter trims. The entry-level 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder makes 228 horsepower and 243 lb-ft of torque, going to the rear or all four wheels through an eight-speed automatic transmission found across the lineup (a six-speed manual is also available with this non-hybrid setup). The i-FORCE powertrain steps those numbers up to 270 hp and 310 lb-ft or 278 hp and 317 lb-ft, depending on trim, while the top-tier i-FORCE MAX hybrid generates 323-326 hp and 465 lb-ft of torque.
There’s also choice in the body style department, with an XtraCab model (two-seater with extensive storage) featuring a six-foot bed and double cab options (with seating for five) providing a choice between five- or six-foot beds. It’s not perfect, but it’s one of the safest and most dependable options on offer, and if you need a truck but wanted a car, this is more useful than some smaller alternatives.
Toyota Tacoma Pros
- Excellent reliability and resale reputation
- Improved ride and handling compared to previous Tacomas thanks to coil-sprung rear end
- Hybrid powertrain blends performance with economy
- Wide variety of trims catering to multiple budgets
- Numerous standard Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 driver aids
Toyota Tacoma Cons
- Four-cylinder turbo engine is not as characterful as a V6
- Towing and payload capacities trail Chevy, Ford, and Jeep
- Range-topping models approach full-size pricing without matching luxury touches
- Rear-seat double cab space trails class-leaders
Toyota Tacoma Scores
- Value: 4.5/5
- Ownership Cost: 4.5/5
- Overall Recommendation: 5/5
Who’s It For?
The Tacoma is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and those who value dependability over maximum capability. It will also appeal to families seeking a versatile truck that is comfortable to commute in but still competent off-road. Or anyone who wants a manual pickup.
Recommended Trim
We recommend the TRD PreRunner as the best sub-$40k Tacoma, but it’s an XtraCab model, so you may be willing to settle for the SR5 ($36,535 plus destination), as this is also available as a double cab, and it gets the coil-spring rear suspension. The TRD Sport ($40,315 plus destination) is the true sweet spot in the range, with off-road chops, all the necessary modern tech, and even the option of a manual transmission, but it’s a fraction too expensive to win.
Runner-Up 1: Chevrolet Colorado
Cole Attisha/Autoblog
Another fine mid-size pickup truck is the Chevy Colorado, which is available in five versions and is capable of towing up to 7,700 lbs, a best-in-class figure. This starts at $32,400 (plus $2,095 for destination) and delivers best-in-class torque of 430 lb-ft from its 2.7-liter TurboMax four-cylinder, which was originally developed as a Silverado 1500 engine. 310 hp is routed to the rear axle or both of them through an eight-speed auto, and it’s relatively quick, reaching 60 mph in around 6.0 to 7.5 seconds, depending on variant. Inside, the cabin is practical and modern, combining tech with a clean, ergonomic layout.
Cole Attisha/Autoblog
The Colorado also offers segment-exclusive Multimatic DSSV dampers in the ZR2 model, but its drawbacks include interior materials that are not as nice as in a Ford Ranger, a single cab and bed configuration, and a tight rear seat. You also don’t get the comprehensive safety suite offered by Toyota, with some key safety features requiring higher trims or packages. Get the right trim, however, and the Colorado is a strong competitor, with excellent torque and towing capacity alongside a number of off-road upgrades. In other words, it’s a straightforward, rugged mid-size pickup, but you will have to accept rough edges.
Chevrolet Colorado Pros
- Class-leading torque at 430 lb-ft
- Class-leading 7,700-lb maximum towing capacity
- Five trims aimed at work and off-road use cases
- Standard 11.3-inch touchscreen with Google Built-In
- ZR2 provides segment-exclusive Multimatic DSSV dampers
Chevrolet Colorado Cons
- Interior materials are better in the Ford Ranger
- Only one bed and cab option
- Rear seat can feel cramped
- No V6, diesel, or hybrid option
- Some key safety upgrades are paywalled behind higher trims or packages
Chevrolet Colorado Scores
- Value: 4.5/5
- Ownership Cost: 4/5
- Overall Recommendation: 4/5
Who’s It For?
The Colorado is for someone who needs a strong work truck or a capable off-roader but doesn’t want the unwieldiness of a full-size truck.
Recommended Trim
The LT (4WD) represents strong value at $38,095 (plus destination), including the StowFlex tailgate, alloy wheels, remote start with keyless entry, and access to the Convenience Package. This adds wireless charging, a rear center armrest, imitation leather, a heated steering wheel, some safety upgrades, a 120-volt bed outlet, and more USB ports, but that also adds $3,570 to the cost. If it came standard, this might have ranked higher. For the record, adding 4WD to the WT or LT costs $3,300.
Runner-Up 2: Ford Maverick
Cole Attisha/Autoblog
If you prefer compact dimensions and a car-like driving experience, the unibody Ford Maverick is perfect, and at a starting MSRP of $27,145 or 2026 (plus $1,845 for destination), there’s room for a particularly nice spec without breaking the $40k ceiling. It has a 4.5-foot bed, a 1,500-lb payload, and a 4,000-lb towing capacity, yet it drives almost like a hatchback. Both a gas-sipping 2.5-liter 191-hp hybrid and a performance-minded 2.0-liter turbo-four with 250 hp are offered with your choice of either FWD or AWD.
Ford
In the cabin, there’s a respectable 35.9 inches of rear legroom, and in front, a 13.2-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto also provides WiFi. For 2027, we expect the XLT to be priced below $31,000, and it will be the best value option in the range, adding 18-inch wheels, a power liftgate lock, push-button start with keyless entry, nicer cabin trim, cruise control, power mirrors, a hitch receiver, and access to more options than the base XL. With that being said, it’s also worth noting that the most luxurious Lariat trim starts at just $35,570, and the sporty Lobo street truck is $35,930.
Ford Maverick Pros
- Outstanding gas mileage, up to 38 mpg combined
- Sub-$30k starting price
- Easy to drive
- Innovative FLEXBED system
- Space for five adults
- Trim variety includes work trucks, sporty Lobo, well-appointed Lariat, and off-road-biased Tremor
Ford Maverick Cons
- Towing capacity is only 4,000 lbs
- Only one bed and cab configuration
- Basic cabin materials on most trims
- Rear legroom is snug for taller individuals
- Top trims flirt with some full-size trucks’ price levels
Ford Maverick Scores
- Value: 4.5/5
- Ownership Cost: 4.5/5
- Overall Recommendation 4.5/5
Who’s It For?
Someone who needs an easily maneuverable pickup that is efficient, fun to drive, and cheap.
Recommended Trim
We recommend the XLT to give you the most bang for your buck, but if you don’t mind spending more and your priorities lie in fun, the Lobo provides a truly unique experience. It’s like a hot hatch, but more practical and therefore cooler.
Honorable Mentions Under $40,000
Ford Ranger
Ford
A simple, well-rounded vehicle that provides a good blend of agility, comfort, and capability, the Ford Ranger is more comfortable on the road than its Colorado and Tacoma rivals, and its 2.3-liter turbocharged EcoBoost four-cylinder engine’s 7,500-lb towing capacity is respectable, while the available and thirsty twin-turbo 2.7-liter V6 delivers addictive straight-line performance, albeit without increasing the tow rating. The interior is well-made and features nice finishes, and the infotainment system is very easy to get along with.
However, it’s only available in a single configuration, and while a starting price of $33,550 for MY2026 (plus $1,895 for destination) isn’t horrific, it’s more than a Tacoma or Colorado, and you need to spend extra to get several of the driver aids. We recommend the XLT 4×4 ($39,470). You get a nicer exterior, rear parking sensors, wireless device charging, and access to the optional 2.7-liter V6.
Hyundai Santa Cruz
The only direct rival to the Ford Maverick, the Hyundai Santa Cruz has to work hard to earn your approval, so it starts at $29,750 (plus $1,600 for destination) and can tow up to 5,000 lbs in XRT and Limited forms, a thousand more than the American. Unfortunately, its distinctly car-like styling puts many off, but those who do try it will be impressed by the turbocharged 2.5-liter engine, producing a healthy 281 hp and 311 lb-ft of torque, which hits all four corners via an eight-speed automatic. The base 2.5-liter NA engine is less exciting, generating 191 hp and 181 lb-ft, but it can be had with FWD. Whatever you choose, the powertrain warranty (10 years/10,000 miles) is unmatched. Drawbacks include a small bed (52.1 inches long), just 20 mpg combined with the turbo AWD setup, an upright and snug rear seat, and a scary $41,000 asking price for top trims. We’d stick with the SEL Activity with a few utility add-ons for under $35,000, leaving some change to add AWD if necessary.
Nissan Frontier
Nissan
One of Nissan’s most popular offerings in the U.S., the Frontier ($32,150 plus $2,245 for destination) looks good and is good. A naturally aspirated 3.8-liter V6 produces 310 hp through a nine-speed automatic, which can feed either the rear wheels only or all four. It’ll tow up to 7,150 lbs, so it’s not as capable as some rivals, but it’s very comfortable and is happy off-road, particularly in Pro-4X form. Buyers can choose from a King Cab with a six-foot bed, a Crew Cab with a five-foot bed, or a Crew Cab with a six-foot bed. We like the punchy and responsive engine, the smooth transmission, the cabin you can spend hours in, and the balance of tech and function in the cabin. Fuel economy leaves a little to be desired; having only one engine may deter some, and the interior materials on lower trims may not be up to scratch, but the Frontier is reliable, solidly built, and simple. Sometimes, these factors matter most, and in the Frontier, you get what you see.
Chevrolet Silverado 1500
Chevrolet
If you want a full-size pickup, the Chevrolet Silverado 1500 is hard to beat. But before we go any further, we should point out that it’s just had a redesign for 2027, and prices are not yet available. Therefore, we’re basing this recommendation on the 2026 model year, which comes in 9 model variants and starts at just $36,900 (plus $2,795 for destination). A Ford F-150 starts on the brink of $40k before destination, but the Silverado leaves you a little room for options without exceeding $40k, and for 2026, four engine options are available, with a 2.7-liter TurboMax I4 (310 hp/430 lb-ft), a 5.3-liter EcoTec3 V8 (355 hp/383 lb-ft), a 6.2-liter EcoTec3 V8 (420 hp/460 lb-ft), and even a 3.0-liter Duramax I6 diesel (305 hp/495 lb-ft). Granted, you won’t get the biggest screens, leather, heated or ventilated seats, or a nice sound system, but all trims have WiFi. In terms of value, a full-size pickup for under $40k is a steal.
Best Pickup Truck Between $40,000 And $70,000: Ford F-150
Ford
The F-150 starts just under $40,000, with a base MSRP of $39,585 (excluding $2,795 for destination) for 2026. That means the $40,000-$50,000 bracket is its sweet spot. V8s are no longer going to be offered for the 2027 lineup’s top trims, but it will still be offered alongside a 2.7-liter EcoBoost V6 with 325 hp/400 lb-ft and an 8,400-lb towing capacity. The 5.0-liter V8 makes 400 hp and 410 lb-ft and is capable of towing up to 12,800 lbs, while the 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 makes the same horsepower but 500 lb-ft, enabling a maximum towing capacity of 13,500 lbs. Finally, the 3.5-liter PowerBoost V6 hybrid makes 430 hp and 570 lb-ft, with its tow rating capped at 11,600 lbs.
Ford
Inside, a 12-inch touchscreen with wireless smartphone integration is standard, but you have to spring for the XLT to get a 12-inch driver cluster. One of the F-150’s attractions is that the shifter folds to create a flat work surface, and another is that there’s variety in more than just the powertrain offering, with interiors ranging from hard-wearing and utilitarian to luxurious leather-trimmed cabins on the top end. That said, the complexity of the range can be confusing, but you can take comfort in the knowledge that however you spec the F-150, it’ll work hard and easily attract a new owner when it’s time to move on.
Ford F-150 Pros
- Up to 13,500-lb towing capacity
- Four engine choices, including a hybrid
- Numerous trims and configurations
- Pro Power OnBoard generator capability
- BlueCruise hands-free driving is available
Ford F-150 Cons
- Pricing rises quickly with options and 4WD
- Lower trims have basic interior materials
- Configuration complexity can be overwhelming
- Some rivals’ standard powertrains are more efficient
Ford F-150 Scores
- Value: 4.5/5
- Ownership Cost: 5/5
- Overall Recommendation: 5/5
Who’s It For?
Somebody who wants a capable, well-equipped full-size pickup that has a proven reputation and is easy to live with.
Recommended Trim
The pick of the F-150 bunch is the XLT, which starts at $44,695 before destination and has access to multiple engine and appearance package options. Even with 4WD, it’s possible to get this at a fraction over $50k. Want something special? The range-topping Platinum trim starts at $68,800.
Runner-Up 1: Chevrolet Silverado 1500
Chevrolet
While the 2027 Silverado’s pricing has not yet been revealed, it’s safe to say it will start around 40 grand, so spending between $40,000 and $70,000 will get you a very good-looking, capable, well-appointed truck. The redesign brings more sharply defined styling, a new digital cockpit with a 12.2-inch driver’s display and a 16.3-inch touchscreen infotainment display as standard, and new V8 engines. On ZR2 and High Country models, there’s even an 11.5-inch passenger screen, and you can also have a head-up display and a digital rearview mirror. As for the powertrain lineup, a 2.7-liter TurboMax four-cylinder engine is offered alongside a 3.0-liter DuraMax six-cylinder turbodiesel, a 5.7-liter V8, and a monstrous 6.6-liter V8.
General Motors
The range includes a relatively sparse work truck, mid-range models with decent all-round capability, and off-road- and luxury-focused trims. A panoramic sunroof is now offered, and the reconfigurable Multi-Flex center console is useful, but one of the biggest highlights is the offer of Super Cruise with hands-free towing, as this is the only truck in its class with such a system. Because pricing and detailed specifications have not been revealed yet, this can’t be our winner, but it’s clear that the 2027 Chevrolet Silverado is better than ever, and if you have more than $40k to spend on a truck, this one will provide good looks, advanced tech, and ruggedness in a modernized but familiar package.
Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Pros
- Capacious cargo bed
- Over 13,000 pounds of towing capacity
- Four powertrains, including frugal yet powerful diesel powertrain option
- Available Super Cruise hands-free driving and towing
Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Cons
- Base turbo four-cylinder feels underpowered
- Entry-level trims are basic
- No hybrid
Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Scores
- Value: 4/5
- Ownership Cost: 4/5
- Overall Recommendation: 4/5
Who’s It For?
Somebody who wants a handsome, tech-forward pickup that retains an easy-to-use, rugged solution to the full-size pickup question. If you appreciate hands-free driving on the highway, this is especially attractive.
Recommended Trim
A full trim breakdown of all seven trims is not yet available, but the Silverado 1500’s Silverado trim, which replaces the LT, is expected to offer the best overall value and will likely cost roughly $50,000, if not a little less.
Runner-Up 2: Toyota Tundra
Toyota
Riding on the TNGA-F body-on-frame architecture, the Toyota Tundra comes with a 3.4-liter twin-turbo V6 on all trims, with an i-FORCE MAX hybrid version also offered. All of these use a 10-speed automatic and direct their power to either the rear wheels or all four, with outputs ranging from 348 hp and 405 lb-ft at the bottom of the lineup to a 389-hp/479-lb-ft offering in the middle and the range-topping hybrid at the top, with 437 hp and 583 lb-ft. 0-60 mph is possible in as little as 5.5 seconds, and towing capacity goes as high as 12,000 lbs. Thanks to a coil-spring suspension setup in the rear, the Tundra rides better than some leaf-sprung rivals. And for the 2027 model year, an off-road-biased Trailhunter version is also available.
Toyota
Inside, the Tundra comes standard with a 4.2-inch driver display complemented by an 8.0-inch touchscreen for infotainment. Higher trims get a fully digital 12.3-inch cluster and a 14.0-inch touchscreen, but all versions support wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Tundra is relatively efficient for its size, achieving figures as high as 20/24/22 mpg on the EPA’s city/highway/combined cycles, but the powertrain is tuned to prioritize torque, not fuel economy, so don’t expect to make huge fuel bill savings compared to a similar V8.
Toyota Tundra Pros
- All powertrains are torquey, with benefits for daily driving and towing
- Hybrid is responsive at the low end
- Settled ride thanks to coil-spring rear suspension
- Composite bed deals with dents and corrosion better than steel
- Competitive interior tech and intuitive controls
- Silky transmission
Toyota Tundra Cons
- Some rivals provide better towing and payload figures
- Hybrid is not as efficient as you might expect
- Visibility can be a challenge due to thick roof pillars
- Upper trims become expensive quickly
Toyota Tundra Scores
- Value: 4.5/5
- Ownership Cost: 4.5/5
- Overall Recommendation: 4/5
Who’s It For?
Someone who wants a solid, refined, torquey truck that rides comfortably and provides good tech backed by a reputable brand.
Recommended Trim
We recommend the Toyota Tundra Limited CrewMax 4WD, which starts under $60,000 and has the best balance of tech, comfort, and capability without luxury pricing.
Honorable Mentions Between $40,000 And $70,000
Ram 1500
Ram
The new Ram 1500 lineup brings V8s back in a big way. The 5.7-liter HEMI is here, and there’s even a 777-hp 6.2-liter supercharged model, but if V8 power isn’t a deal-breaker, you can also have a choice of two twin-turbocharged inline-six engines. The Ram 1500 delivers segment-leading luxury, multiple powertrains, a remarkably resolved ride, and excellent interior tech, along with a fantastic warranty, but beware of options, as the Ram 1500’s base price is typically higher than that of competitors. Also, it goes without saying that not all the engines are frugal. Another drawback is that there’s no Regular Cab option, but if you prioritize comfort, tech, and V8 power, no other truck is quite as capable.
Honda Ridgeline
Honda
The badge may put some of, as may the car-like unibody approach to a truck, but the Honda Ridgeline is a fine daily driver, with a refined 3.5-liter V6 delivering 280 hp to all four wheels as standard through a nine-speed automatic. Like the Ford Maverick and Hyundai Santa Cruz, this is a pickup that emphasizes comfort and ease of use above ruggedness and outright capability, and with a towing capacity of up to 7,000 lbs, it’s more capable than the Maverick or Santa Cruz. The 5’4″ bed is also big enough to fit 4×8 plywood sheets flat, with the dual-action tailgate simplifying loading. Yes, the 9.0-inch touchscreen is small, and 36.7 inches of rear legroom make the rear seats a little tight, but you get tri-zone climate control as standard, interior storage is smart, and even the most expensive trim falls short of $50,000.
Jeep Gladiator
Stellantis
The Jeep Gladiator is not the typical choice for those seeking a truck, but if something different is what you’re after, this is one of the most rugged trucks on sale, with excellent off-road ability. A 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 sends 285 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque to all four wheels through an eight-speed automatic, and while it’s not the most powerful or efficient powertrain out there, it’s certainly one of the most reliable. The removable doors and roof are unique, and with up to 7,700 lbs of towing capacity, it’s a decent getaway companion. This truck is geared more at the serious off-road enthusiast and the style-conscious weekend warrior than the industrious blue-collar worker, yet it’s relatively basic inside. We suggest getting the Sport S trim, as this adds power windows, a bigger infotainment screen than standard, adaptive cruise control, and access to more options.
Best Pickup Truck Above $70,000: GMC Sierra 1500
GMC
If you have over $70,000 to spend on a truck and think a Tesla Cybertruck is too vulgar, the GMC Sierra 1500 may be the ideal choice. The GMC badge lets everyone know you could have bought a Silverado, but you had the money for something truly luxurious, and for over $70,000, it combines the excellent attributes of the Silverado, including its tech and engine lineup, with a more refined, upscale design. You have a MultiPro tailgate and access to the innovative CarboPro bed, over 13,000 lbs of towing capacity, and a range of engine options, including new 5.7-liter and 6.6-liter V8s. And as a premium GM product, it also gets access to SuperCruise, which is one of the best systems of its kind on the market.
Inside, a new 16.3-inch infotainment display and an 11.5-inch passenger display are the largest in the class. These are paired with a 12.2-inch digital cluster, and a 15-inch head-up display can be optioned, as can a Bose sound system with 12 speakers. Pricing starts around $41k for the 2026 model year (2027 pricing will follow nearer the launch at the end of this year), but since our budget here is from $70,000 onwards, the $72,695 Denali is available. With the 6.6-liter V8, tri-coat paint, 22-inch wheels, and every option package, the GMC Sierra is still expected to come in below $90k. That’s a lot of money, but you get one of the finest full-size luxury experiences on the market.
GMC Sierra 1500 Pros
- Superb interior refinement and upscale materials
- Diverse range of powertrains
- Class-leading cabin space and comfort
- Super Cruise hands-free driving tech is available
GMC Sierra 1500 Cons
- Higher pricing for what some may consider “just a fancy Silverado”
- Fuel economy lags behind hybrid rivals
- Complex trim structure can be overwhelming
GMC Sierra 1500 Scores
- Value: 5/5
- Ownership Cost: 4.5/5
- Overall Recommendation: 4.5/5
Who’s It For?
In a way, a luxury truck is for posers, as it’s too nice to get dented and dirty on the work site. However, the prestige, luxury, and style of opting for a GMC Sierra, particularly in range-topping form, are tough to beat.
Recommended Trim
In this price bracket, we recommend the Denali Ultimate Crew Cab, but the SLE Crew Cab is a great all-rounder if you don’t have over $70k to spend.
Runner-Up 1: Ram 1500
Stellantis
The Ram 1500 is widely regarded as one of the nicest trucks on the market, and it narrowly misses out on winning this category, but the GMC Sierra’s access to Super Cruise gives it the edge. Nevertheless, the Ram 1500 isn’t much of a compromise. The powertrain lineup is particularly impressive, with a base 3.0-liter straight-six turbo (420 hp), a High Output version of the same engine (540 hp), a 5.7-liter V8 (395 hp), a 6.4-liter 392 V8 (470 hp), and a 6.2-liter supercharged V8 (777 hp). The Ram 1500 is also offered with a 3.6-liter V6 eTorque setup generating 305 hp. 0-60 mph is as low as 3.4 seconds with the Rumble Bee, while the twin-turbo straight-sixes complete the sprint in between 4.8 and 5.4 seconds and the 5.7-liter V8 and 6.4-liter V8 take 6.1 and 5.2 seconds, respectively. Maximum towing capacity is 11,610 lbs, unlocked with the Hurricane straight-six.
Stellantis
Inside, the Ram 1500 is luxurious, refined, and well-made. You can have ventilated massaging seats, over 50 inches of combined screen area, including a screen for the front passenger, a surround-view camera, and an integrated trailer health monitor. There’s also a trailer reversing guidance system, with dynamic gridlines helping you place the vehicle and whatever you’ve hitched to it. With options ranging from basic to luxurious, from hardcore off-roader to savage street truck, the Ram 1500 range is diverse, but all of them (besides the base model) feel premium.
Ram 1500 Pros
- Segment-leading luxury and comfort
- Multiple powertrain options
- Exceptional ride quality
- Outstanding interior technology
- Fantastic powertrain warranty
Ram 1500 Cons
- More expensive than some rivals
- Economy ratings trail turbodiesel rivals
- Complex trim lineup
Ram 1500 Scores
- Value: 4/5
- Ownership Cost: 4/5
- Overall Recommendation: 4/5
Who’s It For?
The Ram 1500 lineup is typically overshadowed by the supercharged V8 models, but most trims, even those without a V8, are defined by their comfort and luxury. The buyer who prioritizes refinement and relaxation, and maybe V8 power, will find something worthwhile here.
Recommended Trim
The range-topping Tungsten starts at almost $90,000, so we’d recommend the Limited Longhorn ($76,900 for 2026, plus $2,795 for destination). It gets most of the luxury features in the Ram 1500 range and has access to features like a dual-pane sunroof, body-color bumpers, and optional driving aids.
Runner-Up 2: Rivian R1T
Rivian
With the arrival of the Rivian R2, the cheapest versions of the R1T and R1S have been discontinued, which means that for 2026, the R1T now starts at $79,990 (plus $1,895). Between 533 and 1,025 hp is available, with all versions powering both axles, and adaptive air suspension delivers up to 14.6 inches of ground clearance. Depending on trim and configuration, up to 420 miles of range is possible with the 140-kWh battery, and the range has a maximum tow rating of up to 11,000 lbs. Smaller than a full-size truck but bigger than a mid-size one, the Rivian R1T sits in an unusual space, but being nearly maintenance-free is a boon for some.
Rivian
Inside, a 15.6-inch touchscreen is found alongside a 12.3-inch driver display, and there’s a 6.8-inch screen in the back. Heated and ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, a heated steering wheel, and quad-zone climate control are all standard, as are wireless charging and several USB-C ports. Another key feature is Autonomy+, which costs $2,500 but provides lifetime access to the brand’s hands-free driving technology. Some may be deterred by the lack of CarPlay and Android Auto, but the native integration experience is pretty good once you get used to it. An electric pickup isn’t for everyone, but when a GMC Hummer EV and a Tesla Cybertruck are too vulgar, this blends electric power and control with an inoffensive design.
Rivian R1T Pros
- Up to 420 miles of range
- Strong off-road chops, standard air suspension
- Quad-motor powertrain offers up to 1,025 hp
- Native NACS port allows access to Tesla Supercharger stations
- Upscale interior features premium materials
Rivian R1T Cons
- No Apple CarPlay or Android Auto
- Shorter bed than traditional full-size pickups
- Firm ride over rough terrain
- Efficiency falls away when towing
Rivian R1T Scores
- Value: 4/5
- Ownership Cost: 5/5
- Overall Recommendation: 4.5/5
Who’s It For?
Someone who wants a premium, capable electric pickup that is as at home on overland trails as it is ferrying you to a steakhouse.
Recommended Trim
It’s easy to cross into six-figure territory with the R1T, but the quad-motor setup is overkill, especially at over $120k in Launch Edition guise. We recommend the R1T Dual with the Large battery, which starts just under $80,000.
Honorable Mentions Over $70,000
Ford F-150 Raptor R
Kyle Edward/Autoblog
With a big budget, you get access to serious machinery, and for blasting across desert dunes, the Ford F-150 Raptor R is one of the meanest monsters out there. A 5.2-liter supercharged Predator V8 replaces the regular Raptor’s EcoBoost V6 and sends the truck to 60 mph in under four seconds, with an electronically limited top speed of 114 mph. The R package adds nearly $32,000 to the base price of $79,005, meaning you’ll pay $114,420 (including $2,795 for destination), but that gets you 720 p going to all four wheels through a 10-speed automatic. Fox Live Valve shocks, 15 inches of suspension travel, and 37-inch BFG rubber make the Raptor R ready for any terrain, and while a truck like this is not for shrinking violets, the Raptor R somehow has a little more restraint than a supercharged Ram truck.
Toyota Tundra Capstone
Toyota
2027 images of the Tundra Capstone have not yet been released, so the above is an SR5 model, but if you have more than $70k to drop on a lavish truck, the Tundra Capstone, which starts at a little over $80,000 before destination, combines the car-like comfort of the Tundra with premium materials and a torquey hybrid powertrain. For those who want something different from a Lariat, King Ranch, or Denali, the Tundra Capstone mimics those luxury-focused trucks closely but combines their best attributes with Toyota reliability and popularity. Sure, the Tundra isn’t quite as fancy as some full-size pickups, but it won’t lose as much on resale, either.
Chevrolet Silverado EV
With the discontinuation of the F-150 Lightning, the Chevy Silverado EV has no direct competition. Pricing starts as low as $55,895 (plus $2,595 for destination), but if your budget starts at $70k, the LT Extended Range is a good place to begin. A 17.7-inch drive display, access to 22-inch machined-face wheels, and an EPA-estimated range of 410 miles make it a decent all-rounder. The Silverado EV range offers up to 760 hp and 775 lb-ft of torque, and the Trail Boss variant is the first factory off-road EV truck offering. The lack of air suspension on most trims and the lack of CarPlay and Android Auto on all trims are drawbacks, as are the hard plastics in the LT Max Range, but even the range-topping RST Stars and Steel Edition – Max Range is cheaper than a top-tier Rivian. Granted, you get less power, but the Chevy badge is more trusted.
Ram 2500 Heavy Duty
RAM
Nobody does luxury in a pickup quite as well as Ram, and with the size and cost of the 2500 Heavy Duty, Stellantis has more room to raise costs and therefore quality. It starts at around $47,000 in Tradesman form, with a destination charge of $2,795, but that doesn’t concern us. We like the Power Wagon ($73,250) and the Limited and Limited Longhorn ($74,320), and access to the 6.7-liter Cummins turbodiesel, with 430 hp and a staggering 1,075 lb-ft of torque, also makes the 2500 HD more appealing. If you need to tow tens of thousands of pounds without breaking a sweat and feeling as comfortable as you would in a luxury SUV, the Ram 2500 HD is the king.
Chevrolet Silverado 2500 HD High Country
General Motors
Chevy also plays in the heavy-duty space, with prices for the 2026 Silverado HD starting around $63,000 before destination. Torque from the standard 6.6-liter V8 is an impressive 446 lb-ft, more than the base Ford Super Duty gas engine, and the versatile Multi-Flex tailgate is a drawcard. In range-topping High Country form, you’ll pay over $85,000, but you get a 12.3-inch reconfigurable driver display, a 13.4-inch touchscreen infotainment display, wireless charging, and standard OnStar Basics for eight years, along with fancy wood trim and contrast-stitched leather. Seat padding isn’t as good as Ford or Ram, but this still feels upmarket.
Ford F-250 Super Duty
Ford
The 2027 Ford F-250 Super Duty starts at just over $45,000 before destination, but the entire Super Duty family is expansive. Engines include a 6.8-liter naturally aspirated gas V8, a 7.3-liter NA V8, a 6.7-liter turbodiesel V8, and a high-output version of the latter. These produce 405 hp, 430 hp, 475 hp, and 500 hp, respectively, with up to 1,200 lb-ft of torque in the top diesel engine. Up to 40,000 lbs of gooseneck towing is possible; the trailer tech can weigh your load, and the top trims are exceedingly comfortable. On the downside, the gas engines are very thirsty, a well-specced model easily exceeds $80,000, and the unladen ride is very truck-like. But as a single-vehicle garage filler that can work as hard as some 18-wheelers while still providing plenty of comfort, it certainly has its place.
Conclusion
Numerous trucks are available at every price point, but perhaps not enough. The Maverick and Santa Cruz are decent, though the Maverick is more popular, but they’re alone. The Frontier is a fine mid-size truck, but Nissan doesn’t yet offer a full-size big brother. Electric trucks that are worth considering are few and far between, and in the heavy-duty space, nobody dares try to compete with the homegrown heroes. However, this article shows that there are still differing approaches to the truck market, each with unique attributes and drawbacks, catering to every budget level and lifestyle preference. As more affordable electrified options begin to emerge, the truck landscape continues to evolve, and next year, we’ll have even more options to share with you.
About the author
Sebastian Cenizo
Senior Editor, Autoblog