Of all the full-size pickups on the market, the team at Car guide has compiled a list of those that represent the best buys in this category.
In Quebec, a full-size pickup truck has been the top-selling vehicle for several years. Indeed, the F-150 dominates the sales charts, but the competition is not that far behind!
These models, with powerful engines and a more spacious interior than the compact and intermediate models, were first designed for work and towing. But it is also possible to opt for more luxurious variants for everyday use.
Photo: Germain Goyer
In a hotly contested segment, the Ford F-150 takes first place. Available in a wide variety of versions, it can count on several engines – including a hybrid, even if it had some reliability problems when it was released.
The F-150 cuts a fine figure on the road, except for a somewhat bouncy rear end and a low-performance base engine. The team of Car guide prefers the 2.7- and 3.5-liter turbocharged V6s, even if their reliability record isn’t perfect.
For the 2023 model year, Ford is offering a new entry-level Rattler version. At the other end of the spectrum, a new Raptor R version develops 700 horsepower to compete with the Hellcat-powered Ram TRX.
Finally, Ford is the first automaker to sell a full-size, all-electric pickup truck with the F-150 Lightning. Although the range melts like snow in the sun when towing, this version could however be suitable for buyers who do not often need to tow heavy loads.
Photo: Dominic Boucher
The second place in our ranking goes to the twins from GM. For the 2023 model year, we note the arrival of a new luxurious version at GMC (Denali Ultimate). Off-road-focused trim levels are offered, one for the Sierra (AT4X) and one for the Silverado (ZR2).
In terms of engines, the 2.7-litre 4-cylinder is not the most recommendable engine. The two V8s (5.3 and 6.2 litres) remain excellent choices, and demonstrate good overall reliability. The 6-cylinder Duramax diesel is also very good, with high torque. But the significant rise in the cost of diesel compared to gasoline makes it less attractive than before.
Revamped in the course of 2022, the two vans inherit a much more qualitative interior, which is now up to the competition. On the road, the comfort of the suspension is to be emphasized when the latter is normal. This deteriorates when you move on to models dedicated to off-roading, which no longer offer the same serenity on asphalt. This is the price to pay to be able to venture on paths that will remain inaccessible to many vehicles…
Photo: Dominic Boucher
The Ram 1500 finishes on the third step of a podium reserved exclusively for American manufacturers.
With a beautiful interior, the Ram 1500 is pleasant to live in. The multimedia system is intuitive and the quality of finish is at the top of the category. The comfort of the seats is remarkable, as is that of the air suspension which ensures excellent road holding. However, this technology can be capricious because of our harsh climate.
The V6 and V8 HEMI are flexible and efficient engines. And for those who always want more, there is the TRX model whose supercharged 6.2-liter V8 exceeds 700 horsepower.
Although the current model has been sold for a long time, we can turn to the Ram Classic, which is nothing but the previous model. If the appeal of novelty is not essential for you, this is an interesting choice, provided you do not tick too many options, which would increase the bill.
Indeed, paying a Ram Classic the same price as a current Ram would be insane…