The US pickup truck market remains fiercely competitive. Manufacturers invest heavily in top-tier design, engineering, and cutting-edge technology to enhance their pickups, significantly advancing this category of vehicles far beyond its originally modest and utilitarian beginnings.
And it’s not just the full-size trucks making waves mid-size models have seen a resurgence in recent years, and now, even efficient and capable compact trucks have found a place in the US market.
Regardless of which pickup on this list happens to be your personal favorite, one thing is certain: This is a fantastic time for anyone interested in stylish, powerful, and well-equipped trucks.
5. Toyota Tundra
78,454 Units
Toyota’s full-size pickup is enjoying a slightly stronger performance this year compared to its consistently popular mid-size sibling.
Tundra sales have increased by over 31 percent compared to the same period last year, when 59,735 units were sold in the first half of the year.
The Tundra recently underwent a redesign that introduced a host of new technologies and a twin-turbo V6 engine.
Much like the Tacoma, the Tundra is available in a wide range of trims, starting from the $40,000 base version and going all the way up to the high-end $79,000 Capstone.
The Toyota Tundra is a full-size pickup truck built to rival American staples like the Ford F-150, Chevrolet Silverado, and RAM 1500. Known for its durability and off-road capability, the Tundra has long benefited from Toyota’s reputation for reliability.
However, with the third-generation redesign in 2022, that reputation has seen some challenges. The 2022 refresh marked the first full overhaul since 2007 and brought major changes, especially under the hood.
Toyota ditched the traditional V8 in favor of a 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6, which produces 389 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque. There’s also the i-FORCE MAX hybrid option that boosts output to 437 horsepower and 583 lb-ft of torque.
Cab configurations vary, with extended and crew cab options paired to short or long beds. The interior is a massive leap from the previous generation, especially on higher trims.
Features like a 14-inch touchscreen, digital gauge cluster, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, premium audio systems, and upscale materials make it far more competitive in today’s market. The TRD Pro and Capstone trims come especially well-equipped, aimed at off-roaders and luxury buyers respectively.
However, Toyota’s hybrid technology has proven dependable in other models, and many expect these early problems to be ironed out in later model years.
The Tundra’s off-road capabilities are further enhanced in the TRD Off-Road and TRD Pro trims, which include features like skid plates, upgraded suspension, and crawl control.
While it doesn’t go toe-to-toe with extreme performance trucks like the RAM TRX or Ford Raptor, it strikes a solid balance between everyday drivability and rugged capability.
Pricing for the Tundra starts around $40,000 for the base SR trim and can climb north of $75,000 for the TRD Pro and Capstone with all the options.
Overall, the Toyota Tundra is a modern, capable, and feature-rich pickup that blends Toyota’s engineering with bold updates.
While the initial years of the new generation had their hiccups, the Tundra remains a strong contender for those wanting a high-tech full-size truck that doesn’t skimp on performance or versatility.
Also Read: 12 Classic Cars That Are Popular for DIY Restorations
4. GMC Sierra
148,785 Units
One noticeable detail is the significant increase in sales figures between the fifth and fourth spots on this list. As has been the case for decades, full-size pickups continue to dominate in popularity over compact or mid-size models, and that trend remains strong in 2024.
GMC Sierra sales which include both the 1500 and Heavy Duty versions are down by just over 14 percent compared to the previous year, when 143,008 units were sold during the first six months.
Nevertheless, when you combine the sales figures of the GMC Sierra with its platform sibling, the Chevy Silverado, General Motors’ full-size pickups comfortably surpassed the Ford F-series in total sales.
The GMC Sierra is a full-size pickup truck that serves as the more premium sibling to the Chevrolet Silverado. Built with a focus on performance, comfort, and upscale features, the Sierra caters to buyers who want rugged capability with a bit more refinement.
The truck competes directly with the Ford F-150, RAM 1500, and Toyota Tundra, and it’s known for offering a wide range of trims, strong towing capability, and advanced technology.
Under the hood, the 2023 GMC Sierra offers multiple engine options depending on the trim. These include a 2.7-liter turbocharged inline-four making 310 horsepower and 430 lb-ft of torque, a 5.3-liter V8 with 355 horsepower, a 6.2-liter V8 putting out 420 horsepower, and a 3.0-liter Duramax turbo-diesel inline-six producing 305 horsepower and 495 lb-ft of torque.
These engines are paired with either an 8-speed or 10-speed automatic transmission, and most trims are available in both rear-wheel and four-wheel drive.
Towing capacity is one of the Sierra’s strengths, with max towing reaching up to 13,200 pounds when properly equipped. Payload capacity is just over 2,200 pounds, depending on configuration. The Sierra’s trim lineup includes the base Pro, SLE, Elevation, SLT, AT4, Denali, AT4X, and Denali Ultimate.
As you move up the trims, you get more luxury features, advanced driver-assistance systems, and premium materials. The Denali and Denali Ultimate are especially upscale, with leather-wrapped interiors, real wood and aluminum trim, massaging front seats, and a 13.4-inch infotainment system powered by Google Built-In.
3. Ram Pickup
179,526 Units
The full-size pickup segment continues to be a constant battleground among the Big Three American automakers, and at the moment, Ram finds itself in a surprisingly distant third place.
Sales for 2024 have dropped by nearly 20 percent compared to the same period last year, when 223,050 units were sold, including the 1500, 2500, and 3500 models.
An all-new, redesigned Ram 1500 is set to debut for the 2025 model year, and it’s clear that Ram is counting on the updated version to spark a rebound in sales.
The 2023 Ram 1500 offers a wide range of engines to suit different needs and budgets. These include a 3.6L Pentastar V6 with eTorque mild-hybrid tech, a 5.7L HEMI V8 (also available with eTorque), a now-discontinued 3.0L EcoDiesel V6, and the extreme 6.2L supercharged V8 in the TRX, which cranks out a massive 702 horsepower.
Depending on the configuration, the Ram 1500 can tow up to 12,750 pounds and carry over 2,300 pounds of payload, putting it right in line with the best in the segment.
Inside, the Ram 1500 arguably has the most upscale interior of any full-size pickup. Higher trims like the Limited and Longhorn feature real wood, premium leather, and class-leading tech, including a massive 12-inch touchscreen, digital instrument cluster, and an optional Harman Kardon sound system.
The Uconnect infotainment system is one of the most user-friendly on the market. Even base trims are well-equipped and practical for daily use or work duties.
The Ram 1500 also holds its own in the safety and tech department. Available driver-assistance features include blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, and lane-keep assist.
It balances modern safety tech with the toughness and durability truck buyers expect. For heavy-duty needs, Ram offers the 2500 and 3500 HD models, with towing capacities exceeding 37,000 pounds when paired with the legendary 6.7L Cummins turbo diesel.
2. Chevy Silverado
277,842 Units
Chevy Silverado sales have increased by nearly 5 percent compared to the first half of last year, when 268,291 units were sold.
For 2024, the Heavy Duty models received an interior refresh that added a range of new comfort and technology features.
Buyers of the Silverado 1500 have several engine options to choose from, including a turbocharged four-cylinder, a small-block V-8, and a light-duty diesel.
The 2023 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 lineup offers a variety of powertrains to suit different needs. These include a 2.7-liter turbocharged four-cylinder, a 5.3-liter and 6.2-liter V8, and a 3.0-liter Duramax turbo-diesel inline-six.
The 6.2L V8 is the most powerful option, making 420 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque, while the Duramax diesel is praised for its fuel efficiency and strong torque for towing. When properly equipped, the Silverado can tow up to 13,300 pounds, making it one of the most capable trucks in its class.
On the inside, the Silverado has made big improvements in recent years. The 2023 model, especially in the LT and higher trims, features a redesigned interior with a much more modern look, larger digital displays, and better materials.
It now includes a 13.4-inch touchscreen and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, along with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The top trims, like the High Country and ZR2, offer a premium experience with leather seating, open-pore wood trim, and high-end technology.
The Silverado also comes with a full suite of available safety features, such as forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, lane keep assist, blind spot monitoring, and more.
Chevrolet’s Super Cruise, a hands-free driver-assistance system, is available on select trims, making the Silverado one of the few trucks to offer semi-autonomous driving on the highway.
1. Ford F-Series
352,406 Units
It comes as no surprise: The Ford F-series has held the title of America’s best-selling vehicle for over forty consecutive years, and in 2024, this iconic pickup continues to lead the market.
Although sales are down nearly 8 percent compared to last year’s total of 382,893 units, this year’s figures still outpace the rest of the full-size segment by a comfortable margin.
The F-series lineup boasts an impressive variety of models, ranging from the all-electric F-150 Lightning to the supercharged V-8-powered Raptor R, along with the heavy-duty Super Duty versions that extend up to the F-450.
Then there’s the F-150 Raptor, Ford’s ultimate off-road variant. It features a high-output version of the 3.5L EcoBoost V6 with 450 hp, long-travel suspension, Fox shocks, and rugged all-terrain capabilities.
And sitting at the top of the performance ladder is the F-150 Raptor R, powered by a supercharged 5.2L V8 making 700 horsepower—directly aimed at the Ram TRX.
Above the F-150 are the Super Duty trucks (F-250, F-350, and F-450), designed for serious towing, hauling, and commercial use. These trucks offer massive diesel engines, heavy-duty frames, and features tailored for big jobs and fleet buyers.
The 2023 Super Duty lineup introduces more tech and better interiors while pushing the envelope on torque, towing capacity (over 40,000 pounds with a gooseneck), and productivity tools like onboard scales and trailer backup assistance.
In short, the Ford F-Series continues to be a leader in power, capability, innovation, and versatility. Whether you’re a contractor, farmer, weekend warrior, or family road-tripper, there’s a Ford truck built to get the job done—and make you feel like a boss while doing it.
5 Trucks That Nobody Wants
When it comes to collecting whether it’s artwork, automobiles, or anything in between the value of an item can shift dramatically over time.
Often, that value is largely subjective; a vehicle that is mechanically sound and historically significant might still fall out of favor with the majority of collectors, even if there’s nothing inherently wrong with it.
This ever-changing dynamic certainly applies to the world of classic pickup trucks. As time passes, once-beloved models can slip into obscurity, no longer enjoying the admiration they once commanded.
However, as the saying goes, one man’s trash is another man’s treasure. The waning interest in certain trucks could create a prime opportunity for the astute buyer.
With that in mind, here are classic pickup trucks that collectors aren’t particularly interested in anymore and that are in serious need of some TLC.
Also Read: 10 Best First Cars for New Drivers and 5 to Avoid
5. Nissan Hardbody Desert Runner
Most of the Nissan Hardbody trucks you come across today are typically beat-up, damaged, and show heavy signs of wear from years of tough use and high mileage.
The Hardbody Desert Runner, on the other hand, stood out not only because it looked like more than just an inexpensive Japanese pickup it also had the appearance of a stylish, compact utility vehicle that could rival competitors like Jeep.
While you might catch glimpses of these trucks in a few photos or movies, that’s about the extent of their presence these days.
The Nissan Hardbody Desert Runner is a special edition of the classic Nissan Hardbody pickup truck, originally gaining recognition in the late 1980s and 1990s for its rugged durability and boxy, aggressive styling.
The “Desert Runner” variant was introduced as a 2WD, off-road-themed trim, inspired by Nissan’s participation in off-road racing, particularly in events like the Baja 1000. It was designed to give buyers the looks and feel of a 4×4 off-road truck—without the cost or complexity of four-wheel drive.
The Desert Runner came with beefed-up suspension components, bigger tires, sportier graphics, and skid plates, giving it more visual aggression and improved off-road capability over the standard 2WD Hardbody. While it lacked true 4WD, it was a favorite among enthusiasts who wanted a capable and affordable truck with strong styling and moderate trail capabilities.
4. Chevrolet SSR
What on earth was Chevrolet thinking when they came up with the design and production of the SSR? Sure, it was the early 2000s, but that doesn’t necessarily justify following the trend of wild, unconventional styling.
The SSR was an interesting concept one that probably should have remained just that: a concept.
Initially, collectors believed the Chevy SSR would become highly valuable over time, making its over $50,000 price tag seem like a worthwhile investment. Unfortunately for them, that prediction didn’t pan out.
The Chevrolet SSR (Super Sport Roadster) was one of the most unique and unconventional vehicles ever produced by General Motors.
Built between 2003 and 2006, the SSR was a retro-styled convertible pickup truck that blended hot rod aesthetics with utility, but it ended up being more of a collector’s oddity than a mainstream success.
Visually, the SSR stood out with its curvy, throwback design inspired by Chevy’s late-1940s Advance Design trucks. It featured a retractable hardtop roof—an impressive engineering feat for a pickup—and a two-seat cabin with a surprisingly refined interior for its time.
The truck bed was covered with a lockable tonneau and offered more style than practical utility. In essence, the SSR was built more for show than for towing or hauling.
3. Hummer H2 SUT
While some might argue that the Hummer doesn’t qualify as a pickup truck, the SUT versions (Single Unit Truck) clearly make the case that it does.
Regardless, the H2 is considered a truck in this context but that hasn’t done anything to prevent Hummer’s decline in popularity. These days, no one not even collectors seems eager to go near these fuel-thirsty beasts.
The Hummer H2 SUT (Sport Utility Truck) was a bold, brash, and unapologetically over-the-top pickup variant of the standard H2 SUV.
Produced by General Motors from 2005 to 2009, the H2 SUT took everything people either loved or hated about the original H2 and gave it a functional twist by adding a truck bed to the back of the hulking body.
At first glance, the H2 SUT looked nearly identical to the SUV version from the front—massive grille, high stance, wide body, and unmistakable military-inspired design borrowed from the original Hummer H1. But from the B-pillars back, it transitioned into a four-door crew cab pickup, with a short, 4.5-foot cargo bed at the rear.
To compensate for the limited bed space, GM added a Midgate—a fold-down rear wall between the cab and bed—allowing the bed to extend into the cabin when the rear seats were down, increasing its utility.
Under the hood, the H2 SUT came with a 6.0-liter V8 engine in early models, producing around 325 horsepower, which was later upgraded to a 6.2-liter V8 in 2008, putting out 393 horsepower.
Power was sent through a 4-speed automatic (upgraded to a 6-speed in later years), and the SUT featured full-time four-wheel drive with a low-range transfer case, making it genuinely capable off-road despite its size and weight.
2. Studebaker Champ
In the past, Studebaker was far from a forgotten name it was one of America’s leading car manufacturers during the 1940s and 1950s.
However, out of all the vehicles in Studebaker’s lineup, pickups were few and far between, which is why they created the Champ: a modernized and upgraded truck for its time (the year it was produced).
Unfortunately, the Champ couldn’t withstand the company’s eventual downfall and quickly became part of the automotive industry’s forgotten past.
The Studebaker Champ was a pickup truck produced by the Studebaker Corporation from 1960 to 1964, and it’s often remembered as a quirky and somewhat ahead-of-its-time vehicle in the American truck market.
Studebaker, primarily known for its cars, wanted to make a splash in the competitive pickup segment, so it created the Champ to compete with the likes of Ford, Chevrolet, and Dodge.
The Champ was designed to appeal to a variety of buyers, offering styling, practicality, and solid performance. What set it apart was its unique and modern design for its era.
The truck had a clean, sleek look, with a more rounded front end and a sloped windshield, which was different from the traditional square-edged pickups common at the time. The curved styling of the Champ was considered innovative, giving it a more streamlined appearance compared to other trucks.
1. Subaru Brat
Anyone who experienced the 1970s and 1980s can tell you all about the Subaru Brat. During its time, the Brat was the ideal small, economical hybrid between a truck and a car.
It was a common sight on the roads, affordable for the middle class, and extremely practical. Over time, however, the car community may have grown weary of the Brat, leading to its eventual disappearance and the negative opinions that it now faces among enthusiasts.
The Subaru BRAT (Bi-drive Recreational All-terrain Transporter) was a quirky, compact utility vehicle produced by Subaru from 1978 to 1987, designed to combine the practicality of a pickup with the nimbleness of a small car.
It was essentially a 4×4 car-based pickup, built to appeal to those who wanted a practical, off-road capable vehicle with the fun factor of a car. The BRAT’s unique design and performance made it a cult classic and a notable part of Subaru’s history.
The Subaru BRAT was based on the Subaru Leone, a small car that formed the basis for many of Subaru’s early models. The BRAT featured a short, two-door pickup body, with a distinctive bed at the back that could carry small loads.
But its most unique feature was the rear-facing jump seats in the bed, which allowed passengers to sit in the truck bed (something not common in pickup trucks), adding to its fun, offbeat appeal. The BRAT’s design was practical, yet quirky, and it made a lasting impression in its time.
Under the hood, the BRAT was powered by a 1.6-liter flat-four engine, which was Subaru’s signature boxer engine. The engine produced around 70 horsepower, which was more than enough for its compact size.
It was offered with either a 4-speed manual or a 3-speed automatic transmission, and it came with Subaru’s famous all-wheel-drive system for off-road capability. The BRAT had decent ground clearance and could handle light off-roading with ease, making it a versatile vehicle for rural and outdoor enthusiasts.
