Transporting a large trailer requires raw power and a transmission designed for heavy loads, along with reliable cooling and brake systems that can support its weight.
America’s bestselling pickup trucks provide various configurations with high towing and payload ratings, hybrid engines and electric options available.
Ford F-150
Ford F-150 trucks have long been recognized for their outstanding reliability when hauling and towing heavy loads. Offering powerful engines with towing/payload capacities that meet any task at hand. Constructed of high strength military-grade aluminum alloy, their fully boxed frames provide strength and durability needed to tackle heavy loads with ease.
When buying a used pickup, it’s essential to carefully evaluate its reliability. Pickup trucks tend to be driven harder than other vehicles and thus need additional repairs and maintenance work than most cars or SUVs do; any major issue could compromise driver safety considerably – therefore you should always review a vehicle’s reliability score and crash test results prior to making a final purchase decision.
Ford vehicles have earned a poor reputation for reliability; although Ford is working to address these issues, their impact can still be seen in Consumer Reports’ reliability scores. Luckily, the 2023 F-150 boasts outstanding road test and predicted owner satisfaction ratings – making it an attractive option for shoppers on a tight budget.
However, if you want a truck that will easily surpass 200,000 miles without needing repairs, look elsewhere. 2004-2006 models have experienced engine and transmission issues typical of older pickups as well as poor crash test results and an unfavorable predicted reliability score that make them unwise choices.
Toyota Tundra
Toyota Tundra trucks offer full-size dimensions that make them suitable for work or play, yet can manage heavy workloads. Rated to haul up to 12,000 pounds, their performance compares favorably with most half-ton pickups on the market. Tundra boasts an impressive payload capacity of 1,940 pounds, while its bed features new sheet-molded compound construction to increase strength and resist denting, impact dings and corrosion better than traditional steel beds. Tundra models come equipped with either Double Cab, Crew Cab or standard bed options and feature the Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 suite of driver assistance technologies as standard, including features such as blind-spot monitoring, rear cross traffic alert and integrated trailer brake controller.
Victor Sheppard put his 2007 Tundra built at TMMTX in San Antonio through over one million miles before trading it in for another Toyota model. So impressed was he with its longevity that he gave it back to Toyota engineers to test drive so they could understand more about why its longevity makes this truck perfect for long distance drives.
The Tundra features plenty of advanced tech to keep drivers connected and informed, including an available 14-inch Toyota Multimedia System touchscreen that connects to a panoramic view monitor when towing, plus power vertical-sliding tailgate with key fob control and adjustable tie-down cleats for convenient tying down of trailer. Furthermore, an optional integrated navigation system offers turn-by-turn directions directly from its display on dashboard.
Ram 1500
The Ram 1500 is an exceptionally capable workhorse equipped with many features designed for comfort and efficiency. Its impressive towing capacities make it suitable for towing heavy equipment while its payload of up to 11,000 pounds – more than twice what some competitors can carry – helps drivers keep cargo organized during long trips. Furthermore, available RamBox locking bins located inside its bed help keep driver cargo organized and secure during long travels.
The Ram 1500’s award-winning V8 engine is both powerful and fuel-efficient, boasting an estimated highway mpg rating of 33 mpg compared to some economy cars’ 31. For long road trips, its highway mileage rating rivals that of some economy models. Furthermore, this truck can also be equipped with a mild hybrid powertrain which increases torque while improving efficiency – an effective way to boost performance without further wearing down its mechanical components.
As with any vehicle, the Ram 1500 may occasionally experience problems and recalls. One way to minimize these problems is avoiding certain model years – like 2002 Ram 1500 which is known for having numerous mechanical issues that can become serious over time. Other issues related to the 1500 include its slow acceleration and excessive noise production. Furthermore, engine knocking often triggers the check engine light for no discernible reason and requires costly repairs and replacement parts if left unresolved. Before purchasing a Ram 1500, it’s vitally important to review its reliability ratings. Doing so will provide a full picture of its resilience and help ensure it can meet the demands of your lifestyle. These ratings consider its engine, transmission, electrical systems and mechanical components when making their determinations.
Chevrolet Silverado 2500 HD
The Chevrolet Silverado 2500 HD is an all-around truck, featuring plenty of towing capability and an engine with plenty of muscle. Even its standard 6.6-liter gas V-8 can haul most trailers with ease while an available 6.6-liter turbodiesel adds even more muscle for maximum towing capability of 22,400 pounds when coupled with Allison 10-speed automatic transmission.
The Silverado features an expansive and comfortable cabin, offering ample head- and legroom in its crew-cab form. Furthermore, its convenient bed steps and Multi-Flex tailgate make for convenient work surfaces. An optional 13.4-inch touchscreen in LT trim and higher provides access to apps, infotainment systems and Chevrolet’s built-in technology with Google Assistant.
Although large, the Silverado feels maneuverable on city streets. Its brakes offer short stopping distances for its weight; its ride can feel harsh when unloaded but this is common among heavy duty pickups.
Drivers looking for cutting-edge technology and safety features will love the Silverado 2500 HD, particularly its new Super Cruise adaptive cruise control feature. Not available on any other full-size pickup, Super Cruise adds another level of safety during highway cruising by monitoring both vehicle and trailer to detect when drivers slow or speed up, as well as checking for obstacles in their path.
Cost of insuring the Chevrolet Silverado 2500 HD can depend on factors like location, driving history and the coverage you select. Compare rates to get an idea of your monthly costs; raising your deductibles or switching insurers could reduce these rates further.
GMC Sierra HD
The GMC Sierra HD is an impressive performer that delivers premium on-road comfort and unmatched towing capability. Its cabin is packed with large in-bed tie-downs and its MultiPro tailgate has six functions – load stops and work surface are among them! Furthermore, its bed has plenty of space while rear seats fold down for even more room when required; additionally there’s lots of small item storage in its cabin as well as an easy backseat step up for easier entry/exit.
If you want a powerful pickup truck for towing, opt for the Duramax diesel engine and Allison 10-speed automatic transmission combination of the Sierra HD. This combination has proven itself in terms of towing capacity; boasting over 900 more lb-ft of torque than its standard gas V8 counterpart. In terms of ride quality for its class and highway handling abilities, however, recirculating ball steering may feel vague at high speeds.
Sierra HD’s lineup also boasts two capable off-road models, the AT4 and AT4X AEV Edition. Both rigs use Rancho shocks for an enjoyable trail experience while stamped-steel skid plates help protect vital components from rocks and debris.