If you’re in need of a truck that can tow and haul with ease but don’t want to get swept up in the buzz of purchasing a high-priced, brand-new model, you’re not alone and honestly, I get it.
With inflation running rampant and vehicle prices climbing higher than ever, it’s perfectly reasonable to look for more cost-effective alternatives.
If your goal is to actually use a tough pickup for its intended purpose, the used market offers plenty of capable options that deliver the power and reliability you need.
Maybe you’re aiming to be financially savvy while also minimizing your contribution to new manufacturing, all while still meeting your towing and hauling demands.
To help you navigate the market, we’ve put together a list of trucks that cover a range of price points, sizes, and performance levels.
Trucks Towing 10k Lbs Easily
This guide begins with smaller, lighter-duty pickups and moves up to the more robust heavy-duty workhorses.
Whether you require major hauling muscle or a basic truck to handle smaller moves, there are dependable choices available many of which are far more affordable than you might expect.
2018 Ford F-150
The Ford F-150 has long been considered the gold standard of pickup trucks, consistently setting and raising the benchmark that others strive to meet.
The 2018 model, particularly when equipped with the 3.5-liter twin-turbocharged V-6 EcoBoost engine, boasts an impressive 13,200-pound towing capacity an achievement that places it well above its weight class.
While it may not be the flashiest option on the market, a well-equipped used F-150 can often be found in the mid-$25,000 range, representing exceptional value for a segment leader.
The performance specs of this model include a 3.5-liter turbocharged V-6 engine, a 10-speed automatic transmission, 375 horsepower, 470 lb-ft of torque, 4WD driveline, a 0-60 mph time of 5.1 seconds, a top speed of 107 mph, and a payload capacity of 3,230 lbs.
The F-150 remains Ford’s most popular model, maintaining a V-6 powertrain where others continue with larger V-8s.
By avoiding aggressive acceleration when not towing, the EcoBoost engine can offer reasonable fuel efficiency.
The F-150 is also rich in technology and clever design elements that make towing and hauling more efficient, such as trailer backup assist and a foldable center table that provides a clean, usable workspace.
Among the truck’s advantages are its best-in-class towing capability, luxurious interior, and improved fuel economy compared to V-8 competitors.
However, it can become pricey when loaded with options, the EcoBoost engine has mixed reliability reviews, and its size may feel unwieldy to some drivers.
2022 Ram 2500
It’s Ram, not Dodge! While Ram offers the larger 3500 series to compete with heavyweights like GM’s 3500s and Ford’s F-350s, the 2500 strikes the perfect balance in the heavy-duty pickup market for those who don’t need a dually.
Available in both standard form and the distinctive “Power Wagon” trim, the Ram 2500 caters to various needs while staying within a manageable size.
Powered by a 6.7-liter turbocharged inline-six Cummins diesel engine, it delivers 370 horsepower and an impressive 850 lb-ft of torque.
Paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission and a 4WD driveline, it can go from 0-60 mph in 8.5 seconds and reach a top speed of 118 mph.
With a towing capacity of 20,000 lbs and a payload capacity of 4,012 lbs, it’s a solid performer for the price averaging around $45,000 for used models.
The Cummins engine has a well-earned reputation for longevity and durability, a legacy Ram proudly continues.
Internals are robust, and towing capability is a known strength. While it might not have the absolute top specs in the category, it’s more than capable for most hauling needs.
Pros of the Ram 2500 include its legendary engine, spacious cabin, and multiple trim options.
On the downside, it offers less power compared to some rivals, the interior isn’t as upscale, and the drivetrain tech feels a bit dated.
The Ram 2500 serves as the brand’s offering in the heavy-duty pickup truck segment. For the 2022 model year, it receives a modest update that includes a new infotainment system and refinements to its trim structure.
The truck continues to offer two engine options: a naturally aspirated gasoline V-8 and a turbocharged diesel inline-six. Competitors in this class include the Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD, GMC Sierra 2500HD, and Ford F-250 Super Duty.
Notable updates for 2022 include the standardization of “Uconnect 5,” which replaces the previous infotainment system with faster processing and improved features.
The “New 2022 Ram Heavy Duty Big Horn and Lone Star Silver Edition” brings additional styling choices to the lineup, while the Power Wagon benefits from a “New Level 3 Equipment package,” an “electronic transfer case,” “available Bristol leather seats,” and an “available full console.” For the Limited trim, updates include an “updated Black Onyx interior trim.”
A “digital rearview mirror in tow mode” and “Available Trailer 360 View with four cameras” add modern towing tech, and the “Trailer Tow Group now has a trailer hitch light system.” Additional aesthetic upgrades include a “new unique grille for Heavy Duty Big Horn and Lone Star models” and a new “Harvest Sunrise paint” option.
In terms of overall impressions, the Ram 2500 continues to stand out as the top performer in its category. It won the 2020 Truck of the Year award, and this most recent round of enhancements helps it retain a fresh, competitive edge. The updated infotainment system, Uconnect 5, is significantly faster and more capable than its predecessor.
The Ram 2500 also holds the title for being the most aerodynamic truck in its class and arguably the best-looking. The cabin is thoughtfully designed with premium materials and intelligent packaging, resulting in a comfortable and upscale experience.
Performance-wise, the Ram 2500 can be configured with either a gas or diesel engine. The 6.4-liter naturally aspirated V-8 delivers 410 horsepower and 429 lb-ft of torque, mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. The diesel option, while adding nearly $9,500 to the cost, is a worthwhile upgrade.
The 6.7-liter turbocharged inline-six produces 370 horsepower and 850 lb-ft of torque, making it ideal for towing and hauling heavy loads. Diesel variants come with two transmission options: a standard eight-speed automatic and an optional six-speed automatic at no additional charge.
All Ram 2500 models come standard with rear-wheel drive, with four-wheel drive available. Power Wagon models are exclusively equipped with full-time four-wheel drive. Because it’s a heavy-duty truck, the Ram 2500 is not rated for fuel economy by the EPA.
The 2022 Ram 2500 Heavy Duty Big Horn and Lone Star Silver Edition trims offer unique styling elements that set them apart from the rest of the lineup. These versions feature extensive chrome accents, including tow hooks, belt moldings, door handle inserts, and mirrors.
They also sport a unique grille and black interior trim. Polished aluminum wheels complete the upscale look. The Silver Edition is offered only in crew cab and mega cab configurations.
Safety features across the lineup are strong, with Ram offering a suite of advanced driver assistance systems. The optional Safety Group, available on all trims, includes blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and automatic high-beams. These features contribute to a safer driving experience, whether on the highway or job site.
In terms of cabin space and cargo capacity, the Ram 2500 offers flexibility depending on configuration. Regular cab versions accommodate two or three passengers, while crew cab and mega cab models can seat five or six. Legroom in the front row is 40.9 inches across all models.
In the second row, crew cabs provide 40.2 inches of legroom, while mega cabs increase that figure to 43.1 inches. The standard 6-foot-4-inch bed holds 57.5 cubic feet of cargo, and the optional 8-foot bed increases capacity to 74.7 cubic feet.
On the technology front, all Big Horn and higher trims now come standard with a 12.0-inch Uconnect 5 infotainment screen. This system includes features like Wi-Fi connectivity, tow-specific navigation, and over-the-air updates. The base Tradesman trim features a smaller 5.0-inch display with Bluetooth support.
A six-speaker setup is standard, while higher trims receive 10 speakers, with an optional 17-speaker premium system available further up the range. Additional tech highlights include a 360-degree camera system, a 220-amp alternator, and a 360-degree towing camera view.
The recommended trim for buyers seeking a balanced combination of luxury, performance, and value is the Ram 2500 Laramie Crew Cab 4×4. It offers robust capabilities, refined comfort, and a solid range of standard and optional features. Pairing it with the diesel inline-six engine maximizes towing potential and overall utility.
Though the Laramie costs around $7,000 more than the Big Horn model, the added features and customization options make it a smarter long-term investment. In our evaluation of a 2020 Ram 2500 Laramie 4×4 Cummins, we found it to be a highly capable and well-rounded truck.
2020 GMC Sierra 3500 HD
When you need a truck that can tow a small mountain yet still want comfort and refinement, the 2020 GMC Sierra 3500 HD steps in.
This heavy-duty pickup combines rugged capability with premium design, making it stand out in the segment.
Its 6.6-liter turbocharged V-8 engine produces 445 horsepower and 910 lb-ft of torque, coupled with a 10-speed automatic transmission and 4WD driveline.
It accelerates from 0-60 mph in 7.0 seconds, reaches a top speed of 98 mph, and offers a maximum towing capacity of 35,500 lbs along with a payload capacity of 5,892 lbs.
Although it comes at a higher price than its Chevrolet counterpart, the Sierra HD provides a more luxurious experience with upgraded interior materials and a flashier exterior.
It proves that heavy-duty trucks don’t have to be all work and no play. The Sierra delivers on performance while allowing owners to feel a sense of refinement not typically associated with such powerful vehicles.
Its strengths include an elegant design inside and out, a robust V-8 engine, and a dependable powertrain.
However, it’s less fuel-efficient than some competitors, has notable blind spots, and slightly lags in towing capacity compared to the absolute class leader.
2020 Chevrolet Silverado 3500 HD
The 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 3500 HD mirrors the Sierra in many performance aspects but offers an edge in value and payload.
Like its GMC sibling, it can tow up to 35,500 pounds with a gooseneck trailer, but it leads the class in payload capacity at 6,350 lbs.
With a used average price around $44,000, the Silverado HD presents one of the best values for such high capability.
Performance-wise, it features the same 6.6-liter turbocharged V-8 engine, 10-speed automatic transmission, 445 horsepower, 910 lb-ft of torque, 4WD driveline, 0-60 mph in 7.0 seconds, and a top speed of 98 mph.
The Silverado name has long been synonymous with strength, especially in off-roading and towing. It’s favored for its generally reliable powertrain, making it a top choice for those who want long-term dependability.
Most hauling jobs fall well within its capabilities, and with such strong specs, the Silverado 3500 HD covers nearly all real-world towing scenarios.
Notable advantages include its affordability compared to some competitors, a trustworthy engine and transmission, and a wide variety of models. Downsides include lower fuel efficiency, high maintenance costs, and a more basic interior design.
The Ram 2500 serves as the brand’s offering in the heavy-duty pickup truck segment. For the 2022 model year, it receives a modest update that includes a new infotainment system and refinements to its trim structure.
The truck continues to offer two engine options: a naturally aspirated gasoline V-8 and a turbocharged diesel inline-six. Competitors in this class include the Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD, GMC Sierra 2500HD, and Ford F-250 Super Duty.
Notable updates for 2022 include the standardization of “Uconnect 5,” which replaces the previous infotainment system with faster processing and improved features.
The “New 2022 Ram Heavy Duty Big Horn and Lone Star Silver Edition” brings additional styling choices to the lineup, while the Power Wagon benefits from a “New Level 3 Equipment package,” an “electronic transfer case,” “available Bristol leather seats,” and an “available full console.” For the Limited trim, updates include an “updated Black Onyx interior trim.”
A “digital rearview mirror in tow mode” and “Available Trailer 360 View with four cameras” add modern towing tech, and the “Trailer Tow Group now has a trailer hitch light system.” Additional aesthetic upgrades include a “new unique grille for Heavy Duty Big Horn and Lone Star models” and a new “Harvest Sunrise paint” option.
In terms of overall impressions, the Ram 2500 continues to stand out as the top performer in its category. It won the 2020 Truck of the Year award, and this most recent round of enhancements helps it retain a fresh, competitive edge. The updated infotainment system, Uconnect 5, is significantly faster and more capable than its predecessor.
The Ram 2500 also holds the title for being the most aerodynamic truck in its class and arguably the best-looking. The cabin is thoughtfully designed with premium materials and intelligent packaging, resulting in a comfortable and upscale experience.
Performance-wise, the Ram 2500 can be configured with either a gas or diesel engine. The 6.4-liter naturally aspirated V-8 delivers 410 horsepower and 429 lb-ft of torque, mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. The diesel option, while adding nearly $9,500 to the cost, is a worthwhile upgrade.
The 6.7-liter turbocharged inline-six produces 370 horsepower and 850 lb-ft of torque, making it ideal for towing and hauling heavy loads. Diesel variants come with two transmission options: a standard eight-speed automatic and an optional six-speed automatic at no additional charge.
All Ram 2500 models come standard with rear-wheel drive, with four-wheel drive available. Power Wagon models are exclusively equipped with full-time four-wheel drive. Because it’s a heavy-duty truck, the Ram 2500 is not rated for fuel economy by the EPA.
The 2022 Ram 2500 Heavy Duty Big Horn and Lone Star Silver Edition trims offer unique styling elements that set them apart from the rest of the lineup. These versions feature extensive chrome accents, including tow hooks, belt moldings, door handle inserts, and mirrors.
They also sport a unique grille and black interior trim. Polished aluminum wheels complete the upscale look. The Silver Edition is offered only in crew cab and mega cab configurations.
Safety features across the lineup are strong, with Ram offering a suite of advanced driver assistance systems. The optional Safety Group, available on all trims, includes blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and automatic high-beams. These features contribute to a safer driving experience, whether on the highway or job site.
In terms of cabin space and cargo capacity, the Ram 2500 offers flexibility depending on configuration. Regular cab versions accommodate two or three passengers, while crew cab and mega cab models can seat five or six. Legroom in the front row is 40.9 inches across all models.
In the second row, crew cabs provide 40.2 inches of legroom, while mega cabs increase that figure to 43.1 inches. The standard 6-foot-4-inch bed holds 57.5 cubic feet of cargo, and the optional 8-foot bed increases capacity to 74.7 cubic feet.
On the technology front, all Big Horn and higher trims now come standard with a 12.0-inch Uconnect 5 infotainment screen. This system includes features like Wi-Fi connectivity, tow-specific navigation, and over-the-air updates. The base Tradesman trim features a smaller 5.0-inch display with Bluetooth support.
A six-speaker setup is standard, while higher trims receive 10 speakers, with an optional 17-speaker premium system available further up the range. Additional tech highlights include a 360-degree camera system, a 220-amp alternator, and a 360-degree towing camera view.
The recommended trim for buyers seeking a balanced combination of luxury, performance, and value is the Ram 2500 Laramie Crew Cab 4×4. It offers robust capabilities, refined comfort, and a solid range of standard and optional features. Pairing it with the diesel inline-six engine maximizes towing potential and overall utility.
Though the Laramie costs around $7,000 more than the Big Horn model, the added features and customization options make it a smarter long-term investment. In our evaluation of a 2020 Ram 2500 Laramie 4×4 Cummins, we found it to be a highly capable and well-rounded truck.
2020 Ford F-450
If you’re after the ultimate towing machine, the 2020 Ford F-450 is your answer. It was the first production pickup to break into four-digit torque figures, delivering a staggering 1,050 lb-ft of torque along with 475 horsepower from its 6.7-liter turbocharged V-8 engine.
Matched with a 10-speed automatic transmission and 4WD, it accelerates from 0-60 mph in 7.3 seconds and tops out at 88 mph.
The F-450 offers an astonishing 37,000 lbs of towing capacity and a payload limit of 6,288 lbs, solidifying its status as the most capable truck in this lineup.
The average used price of $71,000 may seem steep, but considering new models often surpass $100,000, depreciation actually makes this powerhouse more attainable.
Ford equipped the F-450 with an upgraded chassis and suspension compared to the F-350, further enhancing its heavy-duty credentials.
Over the years, Ford’s diesel engines have evolved significantly, moving beyond the problems of earlier 6.0-liter and 6.4-liter models.
The F-450 also benefits from clever tech features and, in higher trims, a refined interior that feels more luxurious than one might expect from such a brute.
Pros include its best-in-class towing, advanced technology, and upscale cabin on premium models. However, the trade-offs include poor fuel economy, a high MSRP, and above-average maintenance costs.
Trucks That Struggle When Towing
Today’s pickup trucks are more advanced than ever, boasting bold exterior styling, luxurious interiors, and cutting-edge technology.
Yet, these vehicles were originally designed for a more straightforward mission: hauling loads and getting the job done efficiently.
Their immense practicality, versatility, and sheer capability are what earned them their enduring popularity in the American market.
Over the years, pickup trucks have transformed into more powerful and refined machines, mirroring the evolution seen across the automotive industry.
That said, this transformation hasn’t applied equally to all trucks especially some of the newer entries in the pickup segment.
While heavy-duty models like the Ford F-350 Super Duty can now tow well over 24,000 lbs, many other pickups fall short of expectations, particularly when compared to their segment peers.
If towing capacity is a top priority in your next truck purchase, it’s best to steer clear of the models on this list.
These ten pickups represent the weakest performers in terms of towing ability, with some also facing significant issues that further impact their usefulness in this area.
Ford Maverick
Towing Capacity: 4,000 Pounds
The compact pickup truck category is a rather small niche with limited contenders, and among them, the Ford Maverick stands out as the least capable in terms of towing.
This stylish little truck is priced affordably, with a starting MSRP of under $25,000, and within that price range, the Maverick presents an appealing package filled with numerous features.
Still, it leans more toward being a lifestyle vehicle than a rugged partner designed for serious hauling duties.
The Maverick offers two powertrain options: a 2.5-liter hybrid four-cylinder that produces 191 horsepower and a more potent 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder delivering 250 horsepower.
The base engine supports a modest towing capacity of 2,000 lbs, which increases to 4,000 lbs when the turbocharged engine is selected.
Despite this upgrade, the Ford Maverick still trails behind its only segment companion, the Hyundai Santa Cruz.
Hyundai Santa Cruz
Towing Capacity: 5,000 Pounds
The Hyundai Santa Cruz is arguably the most visually appealing pickup truck in its class and is the only other option available in the compact truck segment.
It surpasses the Ford Maverick in various aspects, including driving dynamics, ride comfort, interior craftsmanship, and overall performance.
As a result, the Hyundai Santa Cruz emerges as the clear winner in this limited category, although it functions better as a multi-purpose pickup rather than a serious workhorse.
Buyers have a choice between two engines: a base 2.5-liter four-cylinder that outputs 191 horsepower and a higher-trim 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder producing 281 horsepower.
When equipped with the base engine, the Santa Cruz can tow up to 3,500 lbs, while the turbocharged version increases towing capacity to 5,000 lbs. This makes it far more capable than the Ford Maverick.
Nevertheless, these towing figures remain underwhelming when compared to midsize alternatives like the Ford Ranger, which, at a similar price, offers an impressive towing capacity of 7,500 lbs.
Honda Ridgeline
Towing Capacity: 5,000 Pounds
While the Honda Ridgeline is classified as a midsize pickup truck, it is built on a unibody platform rather than the traditional ladder-frame structure used by its competitors.
This difference inherently limits its toughness and off-road capability, making it a less formidable choice in a segment where ruggedness is valued.
The Ridgeline does offer a smooth ride and a spacious, comfortable interior, but it lags behind in utility and towing strength.
Powering the Ridgeline is a 3.2-liter V6 engine that produces 280 horsepower, paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive.
Despite the solid power output, the truck can tow only up to 5,000 lbs. In contrast, the Ford Ranger, powered by a 270-hp turbocharged four-cylinder, can tow as much as 7,500 lbs.
Additionally, the Ranger is about $12,000 less expensive and offers superior off-road abilities, highlighting the shortcomings of the Honda truck.
Nissan Frontier
Towing Capacity: 6,720 Pounds
After a significant redesign for the 2022 model year, the Nissan Frontier emerged looking more modern and tougher than ever.
Still, it struggles to keep pace with other midsize pickups when it comes to towing performance.
Now in its third generation, the Frontier is equipped with a naturally aspirated 3.8-liter V6 engine that generates 310 horsepower and 281 lb-ft of torque.
A 9-speed automatic transmission is standard, with both rear- and all-wheel-drive versions available.
Even with these solid output numbers, the Nissan Frontier delivers a towing capacity of just 6,720 lbs. This figure is lower than the 6,800 lbs offered by the long-in-the-tooth 2023 Toyota Tacoma.
Leading the midsize segment in towing capability are the Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon, both capable of pulling up to 7,700 lbs clearly outperforming the Frontier in this key area.
The 2025 Nissan Frontier continues its role as a midsize pickup truck available in two cab sizes and two bed lengths, with either rear-wheel or four-wheel drive. Every Frontier is powered by a single drivetrain setup: a 3.8-liter V6 engine paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission.
The Frontier underwent a complete redesign in 2022, but even with the new look and features, it lagged behind some of its top rivals in key areas. However, Nissan has been steadily refining the model, and the 2025 updates reflect meaningful improvements aimed at addressing past shortcomings.
The Frontier’s smooth ride quality and stable, secure handling are standout attributes, making it a comfortable daily driver and work truck alike. Nissan has also done a good job incorporating practical storage spaces for small items, helping to keep the cabin organized. On the downside, the layout of some controls and the on-screen menus can be unintuitive.
The steering feels unnecessarily heavy, which may be tiring during low-speed maneuvers or longer drives. Additionally, the rear seat space is tighter than in some rival midsize crew-cab pickups, which could be a concern for buyers who frequently carry passengers.
According to these estimates, the Frontier S would cost approximately $185 per month to fuel. In comparison, the average compact truck in this category costs about $213 per month to operate, offering a slight fuel cost advantage for the Nissan. (Calculate my fuel costs)
In summary, the 2025 Nissan Frontier builds on its 2022 redesign with thoughtful updates that address several long-standing criticisms. The new standard telescoping steering column improves driver comfort, the larger touchscreen elevates the cabin’s tech experience, and the expanded bed/cab configurations add versatility.
While there are still some ergonomic quirks and tight rear seating, the Frontier’s ride comfort, towing capability, and updated features make it a stronger contender in the midsize truck segment than before.
GMC Hummer EV SUT
Towing Capacity: 7,500 Pounds
The GMC Hummer EV SUT, a full-size electric pickup, is marketed as a high-performance and highly capable vehicle on and off the road.
It features a powerful tri-motor configuration in its top trim, delivering over 1,000 horsepower and approximately 1,200 lb-ft of torque.
With this massive output, the truck can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just about 3.3 seconds.
Given these extraordinary specs, one would naturally expect the Hummer EV SUT to tow immense loads without breaking a sweat.
Surprisingly, it falls short with a maximum towing capacity of just 7,500 lbs a figure that is shockingly low for its class.
By comparison, the Ford F-150 offers a towing capacity of up to 14,000 lbs, nearly double that of the 1,000-hp electric Hummer, highlighting a major disconnect between its power output and its practical towing capability.
