The best truck depends on your particular needs.
There are a number of different types of trucks such as small, mid-sized or large. Every major brand has a great option and some have more bed space or just a more roomy inside. We'll help guide you through each type and how to choose the best truck.
Top Rated Small Trucks
1. Ford Maverick
If you want a compact truck that looks like a truck, drives like a truck, and feels like a truck — congratulations! You've found it! The 2022 Ford Maverick may not be very exciting to drive, or even to look at, but it's certainly utilitarian.
Pros
- Low starting price on base versions
- Loads of available equipment to enhance towing, off-roading and safety
- Standard hybrid powertrain returns excellent fuel economy
- Quick acceleration from optional turbocharged engine
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Cons
- Bumpy ride quality
- Some features hidden in costly optional packages
- Interior has a low-buck feel to it
- Limited range of adjustment for the driver's seat and steering wheel
Top Rated Midsized Trucks
1. Honda Ridgeline
The Honda Ridgeline is more comfortable than the average midsize pickup, yet it retains nearly all the utility of its workaday rivals. It's true that it can't tow as much or go as far off-road as some traditional trucks, but it's a durable, practical choice with some tricks up its sleeve.
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Pros
- Superior ride and handling thanks to independent rear suspension
- Versatile two-way tailgate and large lockable in-bed trunk
- Spacious crew cab is comfortable and handsomely finished
Cons
- Lacks low-range gearing and underbody clearance of typical trucks
- Sensitive driver aids are distracting
- Less towing capacity than top rivals
2. Toyota Tacoma
The Tacoma lives up to a legacy of tough and rugged small trucks that have thrived in seemingly every inhospitable environment on Earth. A well-mannered chassis and a user-friendly interior make the Tacoma a good daily driver, while baked-in ground clearance and optional off-road equipment make it a smart choice for adventuring.
Pros
- Rugged off-pavement capability
- Composite truck bed has movable tie-down cleats and a power outlet
- Top-level V6 can be paired with a six-speed manual transmission
Cons
- Off-road emphasis results in a tall step-up height
- Steering can seem slow on pavement
Top Rated Midsized Trucks
1. Ford F-150
With hundreds of available configurations, you'll have an easy time finding a Ford F-150 that meets your needs. Class-leading towing and payload capacities and above-average fuel economy make it a top pick for work or play, while the trail-busting Raptor is an icon by itself.
Pros
- Wide selection of engines, including gasoline hybrid and upcoming full electric option
- Eye-popping maximum towing capacity, even from hybrid version
- Easy-to-use infotainment system with large 12-inch screen option
- Many available truck-friendly features, including onboard generator
Cons
- Interior storage spots could be roomier or more versatile
- Available hybrid powertrain is noisy when powering the available onboard generator
2. Toyota Tundra
The latest Tundra pickup has improved in every aspect. The turbo V6 and 10-speed automatic deliver a powerful and smooth driving experience, and the optional 14-inch infotainment touchscreen looks great in the tightly constructed cabin. Real-world fuel economy is disappointing, but otherwise, this is a well-rounded truck for the money.
Pros
- Smooth power from turbocharged V6 engine
- Easy-to-use controls
- Standard composite bed limits dents and scratches
- Available 14-inch touchscreen looks great
Cons
- Base and hybrid engines returned subpar fuel economy in our testing
- No trick tailgate options like on some rivals
Summary
Pickup trucks are hugely popular, and many models offer more off-road and towing capabilities than most people need. The good news is that the resurgence of smaller trucks makes the body style even more accessible pricewise while maintaining a notable amount of versatility and capability. Our editors have put just about every pickup truck sold today through our renowned testing regimen. From performance testing to cargo area measurements and a real-world fuel economy challenge, we do it all. From entry-level work trucks and heavy-duty haulers to hybrid-powered and high-performance models, these pickups are the very best of the breed.
(sources: cnet, truecar, edmonds)