Pickup trucks began their lives as tools of tradesmen. They were used by farmers, miners, and anyone who needed something hauled. Back in the day, they were built with the bare minimum. Things like special features weren’t priority.
Several decades ago, people started to see trucks in a new light. They became more than a simple means of going from point A to point B. Instead, they took on a kind of rugged beauty that led them into the lives of drivers everywhere. Sales took off, and now they are a major focus of the biggest automobile manufacturers in the world.
Today, we’ll look at 8 of the top-selling trucks in the market. Without further delay, let’s take a look.
Ford F-150
8 of The Best Trucks Money Can Buy
Each year, trucks rank the highest in automobile sales, and that trend doesn’t seem to be changing anytime soon. Here are 8 trucks to keep on your radar:
8. The Nissan Titan
The Titan first saw the light of day in 2004, and it barely changed in the slightest over the years, until the announcement of the 2016 Nissan Titan at the 2015 Detroit auto show. This new variation will have a 310 horsepower V-8 engine with a six-speed Aisin automatic transmission.
This model will be showing up in your local showrooms around the middle or late months of 2015. Initially it will only be available with the Cummins V-8 diesel engine, but a gasoline powered V-8 and V-6 model will follow soon after, along with a lighter version.
7. Ford F-150 Raptor
The Ford F-150 is one of the most stylish and formidable trucks on the market. With a sleek design, you would think it was developed by a stylistic Italian car brand, but this model is all American. The 2015 and 2016 versions of the F-150 left out the Raptor, but it’s back now.
There have been some slight tweaks from previous models. Most notably, the engine is now a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V-6 with direct fuel injection. Compare this to the previous model which has a 411 horsepower 6.2 liter V-8.
Despite this change, the Raptor is sporting a new aluminum block, revised heads, and a modified fuel-delivery system.
6. Ford F-150 SVT Raptor
This variation consists of a aluminum body that is attached to a brand new frame based on the F-150’s steel structure. In this version, the frame is far more capable of handling tough terrain and full-throttle jumps. Two wheelbases and cab layouts will be offered ranging from a 133-inch-wheelbase, an extended-cab SuperCab, and a 145-inch four-door SuperCrew.
The four-wheel drive comes standard, along with a new version of Ford’s 10-speed automatic transmission.
5. Toyota Tundra
The Tundra sometimes gets a bad reputation, so it was revamped for the 2014 model. There were a number of body style options, bed lengths, and the choice for two or four-wheel drive. In addition, there were also choices between several engines including a 310-hp or 381-hp V-8 option, with 4.6 or 5.7-liter capacity.
Toyota Tundra
The new design made some bold choices, but ultimately it brought the Toyota Tundra back into the limelight. The new model also included a more modernized interior, and a competitive tow capability.
4. RAM 1500
The RAM began its life as a basic work-truck without any bells or whistles. Today, it’s luxury vehicle with everything from comfortable seats, to leather interior. Luckily, it still retains that usefulness in the form of a strong engine and a lot of storage on offer. The standard engine is a V-6 305 horsepower 3.6 liter.
You can upgrade the power though with a V-8 395 horsepower 5.7-liter Hemi. All of these options include a smooth-shifting eight-speed automatic transmission with options for rear or four-wheel drive. A tw0-door version is also offered with convenient RamBox bedside storage bins.
3. GMC Sierra 1500
Yet another model has seen a full revamp for the 2014 edition. The GMC pickup has everything you expect: power, style, and plenty of bells and whistles. The 4.3-liter V-6 is a massive upgrade from previous versions and offers a great base option. It has 305 lb-ft of torque with a 24-mpg highway rating.
GMC
There are two V-8 options: a 5.3 or 6.2-liter variation. With more than 400 horsepower in these options, you’ll have the power you need for those tough jobs.
2. Chevrolet Silverado 1500
While the truck market has been leaning more towards the side of luxury, the Chevrolet Silverado tries to play its cards close, and sticks to what works. Whatever option you choose in this model, you’ll find accurate steering, great handling, and strong engine power.
The standard V-6 engine brings 24 miles per gallon highway capability, and optional V-8 engines bring greater power for towing and hauling.
1. Ford F-150
The original king still reigns! The new 2015 F-150 uses an aluminum body and bed design that cuts hundreds of pounds off its weight. Truly, this is the secret weapon that keeps this truck at the top of charts everywhere. With strength, durability, and zero extra weight holding it back, this one truly deserves its top spot.
The switch to aluminum was a major change to a car that was already dominating. Still, the choice paid off in spades. I suppose that’s why Ford is still among the best U.S. car companies, and the F-150 remains the best among the pickup trucks on the market.
