Essential Guide: 4 Key Questions When Selecting a Pickup Truck During a Sale
This comprehensive guide details key questions to consider when selecting a pickup truck during sales events. It covers truck categories, recent market trends like luxury pickup popularity, top models, and budget-friendly options. Understanding these aspects helps buyers make informed decisions suited to their needs, whether for work, leisure, or daily driving. The article emphasizes the evolution of trucks from utilitarian vehicles to premium, feature-rich models that cater to a variety of lifestyles, highlighting the latest industry trends and popular vehicle choices.

Pickup trucks, known for their durable frames and simple interiors, have long served as reliable work vehicles for transporting cargo. Recently, their design and features have evolved, making them suitable for daily commuting and personal use. Modern trucks now include advanced safety tech, sensors, climate controls, and infotainment systems, comparable to sedans but with a rugged look. This shift has broadened their appeal for activities like family travel, road trips, and off-road adventures, blending utility with comfort.
What are the main categories of trucks available for purchase?
Light-duty trucks— These include Class 1 to Class 3 models, with a maximum weight capacity up to 14,000 pounds. Popular examples are Dodge Dakota, Toyota Tacoma, Chevrolet Silverado 1500, GMC Sierra 3500, and Ford Ranger.
Medium-duty trucks— These vehicles carry between 14,000 to 26,000 pounds and fall under Class 4 to Class 6. Notable models include Ram 4500, Peterbilt 352, Chevrolet Kodiak C6500, GMC 4500, Ford F-550, and International Durastar.
Heavy-duty trucks— Rated as Class 7 and 8, these trucks are designed to haul payloads over 26,000 pounds, surpassing 33,000 pounds in some cases. Examples include Autocar ACMD, Ford F-750, GMC C-7500, Peterbilt 389, and Kenworth T600.
Super-heavy trucks— Also called special-duty trucks, classified as Class 9, they transport payloads exceeding 33,000 pounds. Some Class 8 trucks with specialized features are also categorized here. Representatives include Western Star 6900, Autocar ACX 12×6, and International WorkStar.
What was trending in truck sales in 2018?
In 2018, luxury trucks gained popularity, replacing some traditional luxury sedans. Consumers sought trucks with premium features, such as large touchscreens, advanced infotainment, Wi-Fi, sensors, cameras, spacious interiors, and rugged exteriors.
This trend reflects a shift towards combining comfort, style, and capability in pickup trucks, making them suitable for both work and leisure activities. Automakers like Ford, GM, Fiat Chrysler, and Chevrolet expanded their luxury lineup to meet rising demand, with prices often above $50,000.
Top luxury pickup models in sales
Ram 1500 Limited Tungsten Edition— Known for its premium leather interior and high-end infotainment system, powered by a 5.7L V8, with an urban-inspired exterior design.
Chevrolet Silverado 1500 High Country— Available with 5.3L or 6.2L V8 engines, with either a jet black or saddle brown leather interior.
Nissan Titan Platinum Reserve— Featuring a 5.6L V8 engine with 390 horsepower, electronic tailgate lock, and rear-seat entertainment system, embodying luxury and power.
GMC Sierra 1500 Denali— Equipped with a 5.3L or 6.2L V8 engine, boasting a quiet cabin with active noise cancellation for a premium experience.
Affordable options in truck sales
2017 Nissan Frontier King Cab— An economical choice under $20,000, powered by a 2.5L I-4 engine, with the SV trim offering a 4.0L V6.
2017 Chevrolet Colorado Extended Cab— Priced around $20,000, mainly utility-focused with options for more passenger seating in higher trims.
2017 GMC Canyon— Starting at approximately $22,000, featuring a 2.5L I-4, with higher trims offering a 3.6L V6 engine.
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