2023 Chevrolet Silverado 1500
Full-size trucks split into two camps: Light-duty and heavy-duty.
Your neighbor probably owns a light-duty truck since they’re among the top-selling vehicles in America, and they offer a timeless mix of value, capability and equipment. Heavy-duty models are more specialized workhorses, required when you expect to tow and haul heavy loads. If your neighbor builds houses or tows a massive travel trailer, it’s probably a heavy-duty in the driveway.
Among light-duty trucks, the Ram 1500 is a standout. It offers the smoothest ride in the class and expertly mixes rugged capability with an upscale interior. Ram also offers the TRX, a supercharged off-road performance truck.
Another top pick is the F-150, which can be configured as a basic work truck, a luxurious toy hauler, an extreme off-road machine, or almost anything in between. It offers a half-dozen engine choices, including a hybrid V6, and the most towing and hauling capacity of today’s light-duty pickups. The F-150’s sheer versatility makes it one of our favorites.
The Chevrolet Silverado 1500 holds its own with a wide mix of engines and configurations, and the mechanically related GMC Sierra 1500 Denali sets the standard for pickup truck luxury with its chrome-encrusted exterior and opulent cabin.
The recently redesigned Toyota Tundra is a legitimate alternative to the American truck brands. The new Tundra has fresh, rugged style, a turbo V6 with more power and better fuel economy than the former V8, and updated comfort and tech. The Nissan Titan is another option, although it’s limited to a single V8 engine with fewer trim levels and less capability than its competitors. It does offer a generous warranty, however.
Heavy-duty trucks are up for nearly any task: If you need to haul earth, rock or building materials, or tow horse trailers, fifth-wheel campers or even other trucks, you’ll need an HD pickup. The maximum capabilities of heavy-dutys are pretty evenly matched, and the differences between models are not as significant as those between midsize or light-duty full-size pickups. The main factors typically involve engine type (gas or diesel), towing receiver (gooseneck or tongue hitch), bed length, wheel size and axle ratios, among other details.
When picking from the current crop of heavy-duty trucks, which include the Chevrolet Silverado HD, GMC Sierra HD, Ford Super Duty and Ram Heavy Duty lineups, it’s best to look for the features and technology that help you get the job done rather than the official maximum towing and payload ratings. Preferred styling and interior comfort play a role here too.
The Nissan Titan XD is an alternative for some buyers. The Titan XD sits between light- and heavy-duty capabilities, offering the comfortable ride and road manners of the former with the extra muscle of the latter. The XD hasn’t been updated for several years, however, and most light-duty trucks now eclipse its tow ratings. The Titan XD doesn’t cost quite as much as other heavy-duty trucks, though, so it could be an option if your trailering needs aren’t extreme.