Pickups are widely recognized for their durability, excelling both on and off the road.
With their sturdy build, reliable mechanics, and work-focused design, these vehicles provide exceptional capability particularly for those who depend on a rugged, hardworking truck for daily use.
However, while pickups emphasize toughness, they don’t always match the safety levels offered by cars or SUVs.
To help buyers find the safest options, we’ve compiled a list of ten pickups that have achieved a Five-Star Overall Safety Rating from the NHTSA.
These models, featuring top choices from GM, Ford, Toyota, and others, offer not only powerful performance but also peace of mind.
10. 2025 Toyota Tundra
NHTSA Overall Safety Rating: 5/5
NHTSA Crash Ratings
- Overall Frontal: 5/5
- Overall Side: 5/5
- Rollover: 4/5
The third-generation Toyota Tundra, introduced in 2022, has consistently received strong reviews and recognition.
The latest 2025 model continues this trend, offering enhanced standard features and additional package options.
With the refined iFORCE and iFORCE MAX hybrid powertrains, the Tundra balances power and efficiency effectively.
- Recalls: 0
- NHTSA Investigations: 0
- Awards: N/A
Since this truck is still relatively new, IIHS has not yet conducted crash tests on the 2025 model.
However, the 2024 Tundra was awarded a Top Safety Pick, reinforcing Toyota’s reputation for producing safe, reliable, and well-built vehicles.
9. 2025 Ram 1500
NHTSA Overall Safety Rating: 5/5
NHTSA Crash Ratings
- Overall Frontal: 4/5
- Overall Side: 5/5
- Rollover: 4/5
The Ram 1500 has built a reputation as a powerful workhorse, with the 2024 model boasting a robust V-8 engine capable of towing up to 12,750 pounds.
Its rear coil spring suspension ensures a smooth, comfortable ride even when towing heavy loads while also contributing to impressive off-road capability.
- Recalls: 3
- NHTSA Investigations: 0
- Awards: KBB Consumer Choice Award
Inside, the Ram 1500 features a spacious and well-equipped cabin, complete with clever storage solutions and a quiet interior.
Its base powertrain is a 305-horsepower mild-hybrid V-6, delivering a blend of efficiency and performance with the assistance of Ram’s eTorque system.
Buyers can also opt for the 5.7-liter V-8, available with or without eTorque, producing 395 horsepower.
For those seeking maximum power, the supercharged 6.2-liter V-8 in the Ram 1500 TRX unleashes an astonishing 702 horsepower to all four wheels, making it one of the most aggressive and high-performance pickup trucks on the market today.
8. 2024 Ford F-150
NHTSA Overall Safety Rating: 5/5
NHTSA Crash Ratings
- Overall Frontal: 5/5
- Overall Side: 5/5
- Rollover: 4/5
As North America’s most beloved pickup, the Ford F-150 continues to set the benchmark in the segment, refusing to let competitors steal the spotlight.
The 14th-generation model debuted in 2021, and since then, multiple model years have earned five-star safety ratings. This solidifies the F-150’s position as a leader in both domestic truck excellence and safety.
- Recalls: 2
- NHTSA Investigations: 0
- Awards: 2024 North American Truck of the Year
With a wide range of powertrains, trims, and customization options, buyers can tailor their F-150 to meet their exact requirements.
The lineup includes a high-output turbocharged V-6, available outside the Raptor trims, as well as a fuel-efficient hybrid setup that pairs the turbo V-6 with an electric motor for impressive performance.
For those seeking extreme power and off-road prowess, the Raptor and Raptor R models stand out, delivering unmatched capabilities provided buyers are willing to pay the premium.
Also Read: 10 Affordable Used Trucks Under $10,000 That Offer Power and Reliability
7. 2025 GMC Sierra 1500
NHTSA Overall Safety Rating: 5/5
NHTSA Crash Ratings
- Overall Frontal: 5/5
- Overall Side: 5/5
- Rollover: 4/5
The 2025 GMC Sierra 1500 is a recent addition to the market, meaning it lacks the extensive track record of some older models.
However, its predecessors have built a reputation for reliability, durability, and safety qualities the latest iteration appears to uphold.
With a five-star safety rating, the 2025 Sierra 1500 continues GMC’s legacy of producing secure, high-performing trucks.
- Recalls: 0
- NHTSA Investigations: 0
- Awards: NHTSA 5-Star Safety Rating
Buyers have a variety of powertrain options, including a turbocharged four-cylinder, a Duramax six-cylinder diesel, and a 6.2-liter V-8, allowing for extensive customization based on performance needs.
While all engine choices provide sufficient capability for demanding tasks, those looking to achieve the maximum towing capacity of 13,300 pounds will need to opt for the Duramax diesel engine.
6. 2024 Chevrolet Silverado 1500
NHTSA Overall Safety Rating: 5/5
NHTSA Crash Ratings
- Overall Frontal: 5/5
- Overall Side: 5/5
- Rollover: 5/5
When it comes to dominance in the domestic pickup market, the Chevy Silverado consistently stands toe-to-toe with the Ford F-150 and Ram 1500.
While Ford’s offering often takes the lead, the Silverado remains a formidable competitor, never far behind.
Beyond the rivalry, the Silverado 1500 is a powerhouse in its own right, and its latest iteration reinforces its standing in the segment by securing a five-star NHTSA safety rating.
- Recalls: 1
- NHTSA Investigations: 0
- Awards: Cars.com “Best Pickup for Towing”
The base engine is a turbocharged four-cylinder that balances power and towing capability with respectable fuel efficiency.
However, those aiming to experience why Cars.com awarded the 2024 Silverado the title of “Best Pickup for Towing” should consider the 420-horsepower V-8 or the six-cylinder diesel option both of which provide the truck’s maximum 13,300-pound towing capacity.
For those who don’t require the highest towing numbers, it’s reassuring to know that every 2024 Silverado 1500 model is capable of towing up to 8,900 pounds.
5. 2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz
NHTSA Overall Safety Rating: 5/5
NHTSA Crash Ratings
- Overall Frontal: 5/5
- Overall Side: 5/5
- Rollover: 4/5
Despite facing criticism from traditional pickup enthusiasts for being an unconventional entry in the segment, the Hyundai Santa Cruz has cultivated a dedicated following, particularly among hobbyists and outdoor adventurers.
Since its introduction in 2021, the Santa Cruz’s popularity has only grown, thanks to its unique blend of versatility, maneuverability, capability, and efficiency.
While it may not be the best choice for those needing a workhorse, it excels for those seeking a practical, adventure-ready vehicle.
- Recalls: 1
- NHTSA Investigations: 0
- Awards: IIHS 2024 “Top Safety Pick”
Say what you will about the Santa Cruz, but major automotive outlets such as J.D. Power, IIHS, and Cars.com have praised its safety, adaptability, and overall performance.
Two four-cylinder engine options are available: a naturally aspirated unit and a turbocharged version, depending on the selected trim.
All-wheel drive (AWD) is available across most trims, except for the SE, providing added traction and capability.
Regardless of the choice, Hyundai’s refinement and commitment to the compact pickup segment shine through in every model.
4. 2024 Honda Ridgeline
NHTSA Overall Safety Rating: 5/5
NHTSA Crash Ratings
- Overall Frontal: 5/5
- Overall Side: 5/5
- Rollover: 4/5
The Honda Ridgeline is often grouped with the Hyundai Santa Cruz due to its unconventional pickup design, which sometimes sets it apart from the traditional truck market.
However, changing trends in the industry have seen a new generation of truck buyers seeking more than just raw power.
With its unibody construction and independent rear suspension, the Ridgeline offers a smoother, more comfortable ride, though it sacrifices some towing capability in the process.
- Recalls: 1
- NHTSA investigations: 0
- Awards: J.D. Power 2024 “Best Midsize Pickup”
Since the debut of its second generation in 2017, the Ridgeline has continuously evolved to stay competitive in the ever-demanding truck segment.
The 2024 model remains part of this second-gen lineup but comes equipped with modern updates such as a larger touchscreen and a fully digital gauge cluster.
All 2024 Ridgeline models come standard with all-wheel drive and are powered by a 280-horsepower 3.5-liter V-6 engine paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission.
3. 2022 Ram 1500
NHTSA Overall Safety Rating: 5/5
NHTSA Crash Ratings
- Overall Frontal: 4/5
- Overall Side: 5/5
- Rollover: 4/5
The 2022 Ram 1500 is a well-designed and refined pickup that has earned praise from the NHTSA, Car & Driver, J.D. Power, and other industry leaders.
Beyond its strong safety ratings, the Ram 1500 is known for its smooth, capable ride and upscale interior.
It features a spacious cabin with generous storage options and advanced technology as standard, while higher trims introduce luxurious materials and premium accents.
- Recalls: 13
- NHTSA investigations: 2
- Awards: J.D. Power APEAL 2022 “Best Large Light-Duty Pickup”
Under the hood, the Ram 1500 offers several powertrain choices, including a mild-hybrid V-6, two HEMI V-8s one with a mild-hybrid system and one without and a 3.0-liter EcoDiesel capable of delivering 480 pound-feet of torque.
While its maximum towing capacity of 12,750 pounds doesn’t quite surpass the Ford F-150, it remains a highly capable figure, making the Ram 1500 a strong contender in the full-size truck market.
2. 2022 Ford F-150
NHTSA Overall Safety Rating: 5/5
NHTSA Crash Ratings
- Overall Frontal: 5/5
- Overall Side: 5/5
- Rollover: 4/5
The 14th-generation Ford F-150 had already been introduced in 2021, giving truck enthusiasts a chance to familiarize themselves with the new design before the 2022 model arrived.
While smaller crossover pickups continued to gain traction, full-size trucks still dominated the market, with the F-150 leading the charge.
- Recalls: 14
- NHTSA investigations: 1
- Awards: 2023 North American Truck of the Year
A diverse selection of body styles, bed lengths, engine configurations, and trim levels makes the F-150 a highly customizable pickup.
Nearly every conceivable feature is available, ensuring that the truck caters to a broad range of buyers.
While competitors like the Ram 1500 and Toyota Tundra are always in close contention, Ford’s balance of modern technology, premium amenities, rugged capability, and overall affordability keeps the F-150 at the forefront of the segment.
Also Read: 9 Things You Should Know Before Buying a Honda Civic and Its Legacy of Value
1. 2022 Honda Ridgeline
NHTSA Overall Safety Rating: 5/5
NHTSA Crash Ratings
- Overall Frontal: 5/5
- Overall Side: 5/5
- Rollover: 4/5
The launch of the 2022 Honda Ridgeline wasn’t without its fair share of skepticism, but that didn’t prevent it from standing out in the increasingly popular compact pickup category.
Its smooth, crossover-like driving dynamics made it an appealing option for those who didn’t need the imposing road presence of a full-size truck but still wanted extra cargo space and hauling capability.
- Recalls: 2
- NHTSA investigations: 1
- Awards: J.D. Power APEAL 2022 “Best Midsize Pickup”
The SE and SEL trims come equipped with a standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission.
Front-wheel drive is standard on these lower trims, while all-wheel drive is available as an option.
The upper trims, SEL Premium and Limited, feature a 281-horsepower turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with standard all-wheel drive, along with upgraded cabin technology and premium materials for a more refined experience.