All posts tagged toyota tacoma

The Most Popular Trucks on the Road Today: A Comprehensive Guide

by Carsurfer Admin on 2025/12/19 in Trucks with 1 Comment
popular trucks

For many drivers, a truck represents more than just a vehicle; it embodies capability, freedom, and a readiness for whatever life throws your way. Whether you are hauling supplies for a weekend renovation, towing a boat for a family getaway, or simply navigating the daily commute with a sense of security, the right truck becomes a reliable partner.

If you look around on any highway today, you will notice a diverse array of pickups, from rugged workhorses to sophisticated family haulers.

Understanding the landscape of popular trucks helps you appreciate the engineering marvels that keep our communities moving. The current market is dominated by long-standing full-size favorites that have earned their reputation over decades of hard work.

However, there is also a vibrant ecosystem of midsize options perfect for urban adventurers, and a burgeoning class of electric vehicles redefining what it means to be powerful. This guide explores the most common models you will see on the roads, offering insight into why they continue to capture the hearts of drivers across the country.

Dominating the Road: Full-Size Pickups

When we talk about the most popular trucks in America, the conversation inevitably centers on the full-size segment. These vehicles are the backbone of American industry and recreation, offering the highest towing capacities and spacious interiors that rival luxury sedans.

  • Ford F-Series (F-150)

    The Ford F-Series is not just a popular truck; it is a cultural phenomenon. Consistently ranking as the best-selling vehicle in the United States for decades, the F-150 is the model you are most likely to encounter at a stoplight. Its ubiquity stems from an incredibly wide range of configurations, from basic work trucks with vinyl seats to the plush Platinum trims that offer massaging leather chairs.

    Ford has mastered the balance of aluminum-body efficiency and high-strength steel durability, making the F-150 a top choice for both fleet managers and families. Its reputation for innovation, particularly in towing technology and onboard power generation, keeps it firmly at the top of the sales charts.

  • Chevrolet Silverado

    Right on the heels of the F-Series is the Chevrolet Silverado. This truck commands a massive loyal following, often passed down through generations of drivers who swear by the "Bowtie" brand. The Silverado is instantly recognizable by its aggressive, boxy front end and dependable performance.

    Drivers often praise the Silverado for its range of engine options, including efficient turbocharged four-cylinders and powerful V8s that provide the distinct rumble truck enthusiasts love. Its practical bed features, such as the multi-flex tailgate, demonstrate how Chevrolet listens to the needs of users who actually work out of their trucks every day.

  • Ram 1500

    If you notice a truck with a particularly smooth ride and a luxurious interior, it is likely a Ram 1500. Ram disrupted the market by replacing traditional leaf-spring rear suspension with coil springs, and optional air suspension, resulting in a ride quality that is far superior to many competitors.

    This focus on comfort has made the Ram 1500 a favorite for those who use their truck as a daily driver or a long-haul family vehicle. The interiors of the higher trim levels are often cited as the best in class, featuring premium materials and massive infotainment screens that rival high-end luxury SUVs.

  • GMC Sierra

    Often described as the more upscale sibling to the Chevrolet Silverado, the GMC Sierra shares the same mechanical DNA but presents it in a more sophisticated package. You will often see the Sierra Denali on the road, a trim level that has become synonymous with luxury trucking.

    The Sierra differentiates itself with unique styling cues, such as its distinctive C-shaped LED lighting and the available CarbonPro bed, which is made of carbon-fiber composite to resist dents and corrosion. It appeals to professionals who need a rugged vehicle that looks appropriate pulling up to a job site or a nice restaurant.

  • Toyota Tundra

    While domestic brands have historically dominated this segment, the Toyota Tundra has carved out a significant and growing niche. Known for legendary reliability and resale value, the Tundra is the truck of choice for drivers who plan to keep their vehicle for hundreds of thousands of miles.

    The recent redesigns have modernized the Tundra, replacing the old V8 with potent twin-turbo V6 powertrains, including a hybrid option. These updates have made it a more common sight on the roads recently, as loyal Toyota owners upgrade to the latest technology and improved towing capabilities.

The Versatile Middle Ground: Mid-Size Trucks

Not everyone needs to tow a horse trailer or haul a pallet of concrete. For many, the midsize truck offers the perfect blend of utility and maneuverability.

These trucks are easier to park in city environments and often provide better fuel economy, while still offering an open bed for weekend projects.

  • Toyota Tacoma

    In the midsize world, the Toyota Tacoma is the undisputed king. It has a cult-like following among off-road enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers. You will frequently see Tacomas equipped with roof racks, campers, and aggressive tires, ready for a camping trip.

    Its reputation is built on an unshakeable chassis and the ability to hold its value better than almost any other vehicle on the road. While it may not have the towing capacity of a full-size truck, its durability and "go anywhere" attitude make it the default choice for active lifestyles.

  • Ford Ranger

    After a hiatus from the American market, the Ford Ranger returned and quickly re-established itself as a common sight. It bridges the gap for drivers who love the Ford brand but find the F-150 too large for their garage.

    The Ranger is praised for its punchy turbocharged engine and impressive payload capacity for its size. It serves as a capable work truck for small businesses and a fun recreational vehicle for weekend warriors, offering a balance of power and efficiency that resonates with modern buyers.

  • Chevrolet Colorado

    The Chevrolet Colorado is a versatile performer that offers something for everyone. It is unique in offering a wide variety of setups, from basic work trucks to the high-performance ZR2 off-road variant.

    The Colorado feels robust and planted on the road, providing a driving experience that feels closer to a full-size truck than some of its competitors. Its popularity is bolstered by its stylish design and the availability of features that make towing small trailers or jet skis a breeze.

  • GMC Canyon

    Similar to the dynamic between the Silverado and Sierra, the GMC Canyon serves as the premium counterpart to the Colorado. It appeals to buyers who want the maneuverability of a midsize truck without sacrificing premium features and distinct styling.

    The Canyon is often seen in its AT4 trim, which blends off-road capability with a refined interior, or the Denali trim, which focuses on comfort and chrome. It is a popular choice for empty nesters who want a nice vehicle for gardening supplies or light towing.

  • Nissan Frontier

    The Nissan Frontier is the steady, reliable veteran of the midsize class. For a long time, it was the affordable, no-nonsense option. A recent major overhaul updated its styling and technology, making it a much more competitive and common sight on the road today.

    Drivers appreciate the Frontier for its powerful V6 engine, which comes standard, and its comfortable "Zero Gravity" seats. It remains a strong value proposition for those who want a classic truck experience with modern safety features.

The Future is Now: Electric Trucks

We are witnessing a shift in the automotive landscape as electric trucks move from concept sketches to driveways.

While they still represent a smaller portion of the total truck population compared to gas and diesel models, their visibility is increasing rapidly in urban and suburban areas.

  • Ford F-150 Lightning

    The F-150 Lightning is significant because it looks and acts like a standard F-150, but with an electric powertrain. This familiarity has helped it gain traction quickly. It features a massive "frunk" (front trunk) where an engine would normally be, offering lockable, weather-proof storage that traditional trucks lack.

    You might spot one by its distinct light bar running across the front. It is becoming a favorite for fleets looking to reduce fuel costs and homeowners who value the ability to power their house during an outage.

  • Rivian R1T

    The Rivian R1T is distinct and easy to spot with its unique, vertical oval headlights. Unlike the Lightning, which is adapted from a gas truck, the Rivian was built from the ground up as an electric adventure vehicle.

    It is slightly smaller than a full-size truck but packed with innovative storage solutions, like a "gear tunnel" behind the cab. It attracts a different demographic, often appealing to tech-savvy outdoor enthusiasts who want extreme performance and sustainability.

  • Emerging Electric Models: Silverado EV and Sierra EV

    General Motors is also entering the electric arena with the Silverado EV and Sierra EV. These trucks are built on a dedicated electric vehicle platform, allowing for unique designs and impressive range estimates.

    While just starting to appear on roads, they represent the next wave of electric trucking, offering features like four-wheel steering and expanding truck beds. As production ramps up, expect to see these futuristic interpretations of classic nameplates becoming regular fixtures in traffic.

Finding the Right Truck for You

The diversity of trucks on the road today is a testament to the varying needs of drivers. Whether it is the sheer capability of a Ford F-150, the off-road spirit of a Toyota Tacoma, or the forward-thinking innovation of a Rivian R1T, there is a model designed to support every lifestyle.

These vehicles are more than just tools; they are enablers of work, play, and family memories. As technology evolves and preferences shift, the truck market will continue to adapt, but the fundamental appeal of a versatile, open-bed vehicle remains as strong as ever.

image credit: envato.com

Resource Citations

Need a Truck, but Don’t Want to Pay a Fortune for Gas? 5 Models with Reasonable Gas Mileage

by Carsurfer Admin on 2015/03/02 in Auto Manufacturers with Comments Off on Need a Truck, but Don’t Want to Pay a Fortune for Gas? 5 Models with Reasonable Gas Mileage

A pickup truck is a versatile workhorse that can fulfill a variety of duties. Unfortunately, pickup trucks have never been known for delivering good fuel efficiency. This can put you in a bind if you need a truck to support your business or lifestyle, but don’t want to pay a fortune for gas. If you are thinking about buying a truck, but would like a reasonable gas bill every month, you might consider a few of the following models with the best mileage:

Toyota Tacoma

With an EPA fuel economy rating of 21 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway, the 2015 Toyota Tacoma proves to be an efficient daily-driver. Although a V-6 engine is offered, the four-cylinder engine is clearly the most efficient option. Some of this truck’s standard features include an anti-lock braking system, a five-speed manual gearbox, a four-speaker sound system, and electronic traction control.

Dodge Ram 1500

The 2015 Dodge Ram 1500 offers two very efficient engine choices. Despite the V-6 engine’s strong performance, it still manages an impressive fuel economy rating of 25 mpg on the highway. On the other hand, the optional Eco-diesel engine is rated at 20 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the open road. According to Topspeed.com, the diesel-powered Ram 1500 actually delivered 33 mpg when cruising along the highway.

Ford F-150

For good reason, the F-150 has remained the top-selling truck in America. In an effort to boost gas mileage, all F-150 models are now constructed using lightweight aluminum. While the F-150 offers several engine choices, the new 2.7-liter EcoBoost engine has been specially tuned for efficiency. Gas mileage stands at 19 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway. Amazingly, the 325-horsepower engine is strong enough to tow about 8,500 pounds.

2015 GMC Canyon

Equipped with a peppy four-cylinder engine, the newly-redesigned GMC Canyon offers an exciting blend of power and efficiency. Drivers can expect to get 20 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the freeway. As a testament to the 2015 Canyon’s outstanding performance and build quality, Autoweek named the Canyon as their “Best of the Best Truck”. Some of the truck’s standout features include LED running lights and a rear CornerStep bumper.

2015 Chevrolet Colorado

Featuring essentially the same chassis as the GMC Canyon, the 2015 Chevrolet Colorado also offers excellent gas mileage. While the four-cylinder model is rated at 27 mpg on the freeway and 20 mpg in the city, the V-6 version is almost as impressive. When fitted with a powerful V-6 engine, the new Canyon can still return a commendable 26 mpg on the highway.

No longer do truck owners have to suffer from poor fuel efficiency. These five truck models will definitely keep fuel consumption to a minimum, while allowing you to get the job done.

The information for this article was provided by the professionals at Tonka 4-Wheel Drive Ltd., who specialize in truck accessories in Edmonton.

6 Trucks that Seamlessly Blend Comfort and Functionality

by Carsurfer Admin on 2015/01/14 in Auto Buying Tips with Comments Off on 6 Trucks that Seamlessly Blend Comfort and Functionality

Today’s trucks aren’t your grandad’s rusted out old rig; they offer all the comforts of a highway car. These new trucks handle everything from towing trailers and hauling heavy loads to comfortable commuting and vacation travel for the whole family.

1. Car-like Comfort: 2014 Chevrolet Silverado

With its car-like ride and luxurious interior, the Silverado handles daily commutes or long road trips in comfort. It can tow a trailer, carry a big load, or go off-road. Engine choices range from more economical 6-speed automatic V6s to an eight-speed automatic 6.2-liter V8 with a 12,000-pound tow rating.

2. Chrysler Ram 1500: Comfort and Performance

With a comfortable ride, widely-praised interior styling, and a well-designed cabin, the Ram’s smooth-shifting standard 8-speed automatic balances power with comfort. Choose 2WD or 4WD, V6 or V8, diesel or gas, and a variety of cabin styles and trim levels.

3. Ford F-150: The Most Popular Choice

The Ford 150 remains the best-selling truck in North America. This full-sized workhorse tows up to 11,300 pounds and carries 3,120 pounds, with a 81.3 cubic feet cargo box, several V6 and V8 engine choices, and a six-speed automatic transmission with a haul/tow mode. You can choose standard, extended or crew-style cabins. 

4. Chevrolet Colorado: Best Gas Mileage

With a top-rated 20 mpg city and 27 mpg highway, the Chevrolet Colorado is the mid-size truck of choice for high-mileage drivers. With a choice of automatic or manual transmissions, V4 or V6 engines, and standard, extended or crew cabins, this versatile truck can carry up to 1,590 lbs. of payload and tow trailers up to 7,000 pounds.

5. Toyota Tacoma: Economical Off-Roader

The Tacoma is an economical performer, compact enough to fit in small parallel parking spaces and navigate narrow jeep trails or sandy washes equally well. Its quickness and agility make it the choice for drivers who need to navigate both urban traffic and backcountry wilderness.

6. Nissan Frontier: Most Affordable

The compact Nissan Frontier offers a low sticker price and good gas mileage. You can choose 2WD or 4WD, manual or automatic, and V4 or V6 engines, with a maximum 1,524 pounds payload and 6,500 pound trailer. It offers a state-of-the-art infotainment system including hands-free text messaging.

Although you can research trucks on the internet, what matters most is how they feel on the road and how they suit your driving style. Expressway Dodge can configure trucks for your needs.

The Six Most Economical New Pickup Trucks

by Carsurfer Admin on 2014/05/30 in Auto Maintenance with Comments Off on The Six Most Economical New Pickup Trucks

In the past, owning a pickup truck meant that you had to deal with extremely poor fuel economy. Today’s automakers have taken major steps to improve the gas mileage of their pickup trucks. Certain pickup trucks are actually able to surpass the fuel efficiency of some cars. The best part is that these trucks are also very affordable—the following is a list of the most economical of the newest pickup trucks:

Dodge Ram 1500

Very few trucks can match the Dodge Ram 1500’s rare combination of brute strength and efficiency. The new EcoDiesel engine rewards the owner with a highway fuel economy rating of 28 mpg on the highway. However, the V-6 version of the truck is a tad bit cheaper to buy.

Toyota Tacoma

A brand new Toyota Tacoma can be obtained for less than $20,000. While its four-cylinder engine is not capable of pulling extremely heavy loads, it is perfectly suitable for light-duty applications. The driver will certainly appreciate the Tacoma’s gas mileage rating of 21 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway.

Chevrolet Silverado 1500

The Chevy Silverado’s new 4.3-liter, V-6 engine helps it to average 24 mpg on the highway. Amazingly, the base Silverado is still able to tow a commendable 7,200 pounds. The entry-level Silverado has all of the basic essentials, including a six-speaker sound system, air-conditioning, and Bluetooth phone connectivity. The 2014 Silverado, due to these features and its combination of high performance and high safety ratings, has been declared the 2014 Truck of the Year at the North American International Auto Show.

Ford F-150

While the Ford F-150 offers several engine choices, the 3.7 engine is the most cost-efficient option. The 302-horsepower engine revs with enthusiasm while returning a fuel economy rating of 17 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the freeway. You will be hard-pressed to find a better pickup truck for $24,200. The F-150, as one of the most popular models on the current market, is both easy and inexpensive to repair, as you will experience no shortage of experienced Ford mechanics and replacement parts.

GMC Sierra 1500

Based on the same platform as the Silverado, the GMC Sierra offers great fuel economy and unmatched durability. Although you will have to forgo options, such as a rear-view camera and remote starting, the Sierra can be obtained for as little as $26,000. One of the 1500’s best, most economical new features is its considerable lightness compared to other pickups in its class. This has significantly improved fuel economy, making the Sierra one of the most efficient vehicles on this list.

Nissan Frontier

The Nissan Frontier’s base price of $18,850 is very economical. When equipped with four-wheel drive, the Frontier transforms into one of the most capable pickup trucks on the market. The rear-wheel drive model, according to a Drayton Valley truck body specialist, is able to deliver an impressive 23 miles-per-gallon when traveling on the open road.

Becoming the owner of a pickup truck does not have to be a financial burden. Each one of these capable pickup trucks offers great gas mileage and an attractive price tag.

Informational Credit to Western Truck Body Mfg

About the 2014 Toyota Tacoma Access Cab

by Carsurfer Admin on 2013/11/04 in Toyota with Comments Off on About the 2014 Toyota Tacoma Access Cab

The small pickup truck market has steadily shrunk since the 1990s as shoppers choose larger trucks that offer more power, higher payloads, tremendous towing capabilities and fairly competitive fuel mileage. Mitsubishi, Isuzu, Chevrolet, Ford and Dodge have left the market with only Toyota and Nissan remaining.

The Toyota Tacoma controls two-thirds of the small pickup truck market, fielding regular and extended cab models including the Access Cab, a truck with two standard doors and dual, large rear hinge access doors. Its the middle model in the Tacoma line up, priced from $20,515 and sold in 4×2, 4×4 and PreRunner configurations.

Engines and Transmissions

The standard engine with the 2014 Toyota Tacoma is a 2.7-liter inline four cylinder, a 16-valve motor with direct fuel injection. This engine makes 159 horsepower at 5,200 rpm and 180 foot-pounds of torque at 3,800 rpm. It measures 3.74 bore by 3.74 stroke and has a 9:6-to-1 compression ratio. A five-speed manual transmission is standard; a four-speed automatic transmission is available.

Buyers can also choose a 4.0-liter V-6 engine, a 24-valve motor that is also outfitted with direct fuel injection. This engine makes 236 horsepower at 5,200 rpm and 266 foot-pounds of torque at 4,000 rpm. It measures 3.70 bore by 3.74 stroke and has a 10.0-to-1 compression ratio. A six-speed manual transmission is standard; a five speed automatic transmission is available. 

Technical Information

The Access Cab is a 4×2 model or it can be equipped with part-time 4×4. It comes with a coil spring independent double wishbone suspension up front and a leaf spring rigid suspension in the rear. This model has rack-and-pinion power steering, ventilated front disc brakes, leading-drum brakes in the rear, and is outfitted with standard 15-inch steel wheels.

Optional wheels include 15- and 16-inch styled steel wheels, and 17- and 18-inch alloy wheels. All season tires are standard; mud & snow rated tires are also available. This truck is equipped with an anti-lock brake system, electronic braking distribution, brake assist, stability control, and traction control. 

Vehicle Dimensions

The Toyota Tacoma Access Cab sits on a 127.4-inch wheelbase and measures 208.1 inches long, up to 70.3 inches tall and as much as 74.3 inches wide. It comes equipped with a 6-foot bed.

This model has a ground clearance of 7.9 to 9.1 inches. Its payload ranges from 1,255 to 1,500 pounds. Standard towing capacity is 3,500 pounds. Choose the optional V-6 tow prep package and that limit pushes up to 6,500 pounds. The Tacoma is outfitted with a 21.1-gallon fuel tank and is rated as high as 21 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway, and as low as 15 mpg in the city and 19 mpg on the highway. Regular grade gasoline is recommended.

Key Features

The Toyota Tacoma Access Cab comes equipped or has available the following exterior features: mud guards, an engine skid plate, variable speed wipers, fog lights, bed tie downs, and a full spare tire.

Inside, Toyota equips this model with air conditioning, fabric-trimmed front seats, fold up rear seats with under seat storage, power windows and power door locks, LED-illuminated gauges, a tilt and telescopic steering wheel, rear seat heat vents, two 12-volt outlets, two bottle holders up front, and up to five cup holders.

An Entune audio system is standard across the model line. The multimedia package features an AM/FM/CD player. a 6.1-inch touchscreen, iPod connectivity, hands-free phone access, voice recognition, Bluetooth wireless technology, and an auxiliary jack. An upgraded package with SiriusXM satellite radio is available as are navigation and app suite package upgrades.

Tacoma Considerations

The Toyota Tacoma made its debut in 1995, but Toyota has been building trucks for decades. The previous model was simply known as "Pickup." 

Several special equipment packages are available including SR5, TRD Off-Road, TRD Sport Package and a Limited package. Equipment upgrades include a front tow hook, a 115-volt outlet, chrome grille surround, upgraded seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, an integrated backup camera a and special graphics. Chrome cladding, color-keyed bumpers and heated front seats are among the other available upgrades.

Photo courtesy of Toyota.

Author Information
Harrison Plamer is a professional blogger that provides information on CDL truck driving and owner operator truck driving jobs. He writes for BestDriverJobs.com, the best place to find a truck driving job nationwide.