Pickup trucks can be helpful for a number of reasons. Whether you own a business where you’re constantly bringing materials from destination to destination or need the extra trunk room, it can get the job done. These days, there are more pickup trucks on the road than ever before. Gone are the days when these trucks were only driven by construction workers — today, you’ll see these trucks on the road and throughout parking lots.
However, many businesses still use pickup trucks for towing and transporting goods. This is especially true for construction companies or contractors that bring equipment and tools from site to site. Depending on what you’re using the truck for, the right one for you will likely be different, and that’s okay! Everyone has unique needs and different requirements, which means the definition of the best pickup truck will not be the same depending on who you ask.
This might leave you wondering what the best pickup trucks are. There are so many types to choose from, and new models are being developed every day. Whether you need a compact pickup truck or prefer electric pickup trucks to reduce your carbon footprint, there’s one out there for you. With that said, BrokerLink has created a guide to the best pickup trucks around to help you decide which type will work for you. Let’s find out more about these vehicles and what they can do for you.
Key considerations when buying a pickup truck
Before purchasing a pickup truck, you should consider a few factors. Many parts differentiate between a good pickup truck and one with limited capacity. When making this big of an investment, you want to meet your needs while getting great value. Often, spending a little more to get what you want makes a pickup truck an ideal long-term investment. Here’s what to think about before treating yourself to a new pickup truck:
Size of cab and seats
One important thing to think about is how many people you’ll need to drive around in your pickup truck. A smaller truck might only have two front seats and a cab to store your belongings. This wouldn’t work for a large family or construction crew, but it might be for everyday use and transporting small amounts of materials.
Truck bed
Regular cars have trunks to help transport items. However, unlike a car, a truck has a bed, and the size will often vary depending on the configuration of the cab. Modern truck models might also offer under-bed storage, power stations, roof racking, and other storage solutions. If you bring materials like furniture, tools, and equipment from place to place, look for a large truck bed.
Engine type and fuel economy
Different trucks have various engine types, including four-cylinders and large diesels. Hybrids and electric pickup trucks are also rising in popularity. Remember that fuel efficiency will decrease when towing or driving in cold conditions. If these are conditions that you deal with on a regular basis, consider going green to avoid frequent trips to the gas station.
Interior comfort
The interior of your truck can make a huge difference because you’ll see it every time you get into your vehicle. Are you the type to make long commutes? If this is the case, consider a model with leather seats, infotainment systems, power tailgates, a large bed and accessibility accessories. You won’t regret it if you take long trips down the highway on a daily basis.
Truck bed accessories
A truck bed is one of the main reasons people purchase this type of vehicle. That’s why you should consider adding accessories to your truck bed. Loading ramps, LED lights, and tie-down straps can help. If you’re constantly transferring items and equipment throughout the day, truck bed accessories might be of assistance.
There are many aspects to consider when purchasing pickup trucks. However, you need to prioritize what is important to you. Some people may consider storage space and towing capacity, and others will prioritize interior comfort and tech features. No matter what you’re looking for, pickup trucks have many upsides. We’ll discuss those in the next section.
Benefits of purchasing a pickup truck
With so many models to choose from and parts to think about when buying a pickup, you should consider the benefits of owning one. They are some of the most popular vehicles on the road for a good reason. From their power to their ability to transfer large loads that regular cars can’t, there’s so much to admire. Here are the advantages of choosing pickups over traditional vehicles:
Hauling and towing capability
One of the most common reasons people purchase pickup trucks is that they can haul and tow. Your pickup truck will allow you to take your load with you wherever you go, no matter the conditions. The chances are a pickup truck can get the job done. Whether you’re towing a trailer or a boat for your next big adventure, having the right pickup truck can help.
Its versatile nature
Pickup trucks are some of the most versatile vehicles on the market. That’s because you can use it for everything from towing to outdoor adventures. Its off-roading capabilities allow you to explore without the worry of getting stuck in mud. The truck bed also offers plenty of storage, whether you’re transporting a piece of furniture or work equipment.
Safer
You might also want to consider buying a pickup truck for safety reasons. In common car accidents, the one driving a smaller vehicle is more likely to get injured than the person driving a pickup truck. Having 4-wheel drive also allows you to navigate the elements better. From bitter-cold winter roads to mud and gravel, pickup trucks can do it all without the risk of injury or damage to your vehicle.
Storage and sitting space
Unfortunately, smaller vehicles are flawed in the sense that they sometimes feel a bit cramped. You’re often stuck sacrificing either trunk space or leg room. However, even small trucks have more space for storage and seating. When you drive a pickup truck, you get the best of both worlds because you don’t lose either of the previously mentioned qualities.
Amount of customization
Nowadays, pickup trucks offer a certain amount of luxury. From heated steering wheels to satellite navigation, surround sound, and excess space, they have it all. The other advantage you get is height because it gives you a bigger line of vision, allowing you to see other cars and stay clear of accidents. It’s also easy to upgrade pickup trucks if you want to add new features later.
Pickup trucks have many advantages over traditional vehicles. Although their price point might seem high, consumer reports suggest that pickups are growing in popularity. This is likely because the best trucks get the job done and are great for work and leisurely use. Next, we will discuss the types of pickup trucks available.
Types of pickup trucks
As mentioned earlier, there are many types of pickup trucks to choose from. That’s why we have compiled them into a list to help you navigate the buying process. From there, you can get into the specifics like make, model, and colour. Here are the various types of pickup trucks available and what makes them special:
Compact trucks
As the smallest and most affordable of the group, compact trucks are the ones that you’ll see on the road every day. Usually, people use compact trucks for personal transportation and light commercial work. Some of the upsides to these trucks are the ability to navigate smaller spaces, their fuel efficiency and their 4-wheel drive.
Midsize trucks
If you’re ready to take a step up, consider a midsize truck. Because of their larger size, they offer great value and a bit more power. They have the capacity for 2-wheel and 4-wheel drive and offer a plethora of engine options, including 4-cylinders and V6s. The cabins and pickup beds come close to full-size models while offering a slightly better towing capacity than their smaller counterparts.
Full-size trucks
Known for being some of the best sellers, full-size pickup trucks are a little different. They are designed to carry heavy loads and are a construction worker’s best friend. Additionally, they have an even higher towing capacity and can have more powerful V6 and V8 engines. Did we mention that hybrid and electric options are also available, which can save you money on the costs of fuel?
Heavy duty trucks
Heavy-duty trucks are the largest and most powerful trucks on the market. They’re not uncommon in being used for road construction and drilling. They also have the best towing and hauling capabilities of the entire group. However, it’s important to keep in mind that they come with high upfront costs and aren’t necessary for everyday use.
Protect your investment and ensure peace of mind by insuring your pickup truck with BrokerLink. Get personalized service and comprehensive protection tailored to your vehicle. Contact a BrokerLink broker today and drive with confidence!
Get an auto insurance quote [phone]
Top pickup trucks
Whether you're looking for a reliable workhorse or a versatile vehicle for everyday adventures, we've got you covered with all the essential insights. Below, we will delve into a discussion about the best pickup trucks available on the market:
Best small trucks
Not everyone needs the space and storage options offered by larger trucks. Additionally, smaller vehicles cost less and are great for those looking for a vehicle on a budget. After all, bigger doesn’t always mean better. Without further ado, let’s establish the best compact pickup truck options:
Hyundai Santa Cruz
At first glance, you might look at the Hyundai Santa Cruz and think it’s an SUV, but that’s where you’re wrong. Its sleek, lightweight exterior is deceiving.
It’s actually a pickup truck with a massive cargo area that’s a comfortable ride as far as small trucks go. The truck bed is a little short, but it will give you what you need when it comes to transferring basic work materials, equipment, and small pieces of furniture. The truck can also tow up to 5,000 lbs.
Offering plenty of legroom and a high-tech touchscreen you can connect your smartphone to, it’s big enough but still has that modern look that people enjoy. If you’re looking for a truck with a unique look and aren’t quite ready to drive a heavy-duty truck, this one might be just the ticket.
Ford Maverick
As far as compact trucks go, the Ford Maverick is hard to top. Despite its small stature, it looks and drives like a traditional truck. When you think about going back to basics, this vehicle has you covered.
You don’t always find a hybrid powertrain that boosts your vehicle’s fuel economy at this price point. In addition to its bed, there are many interior storage options, including under-seat storage and a massive centre console. The towing and payload capability are 4,000 and 10,000 lbs, respectively.
The seats are fairly supportive, even on bumpy and broken roads. Additionally, you won’t hear the engine much when driving down the highway. If you’re looking to purchase a small truck at a lower price point, you’ve come to the right place.
Best midsize trucks
Midsize pickup trucks are a step below full-size pickup trucks and do a little more than their smaller counterparts. They are still suitable for everyday use but offer more storage and a higher towing capacity, which are common qualities people look for in a pickup truck. Here are the top midsize trucks:
Ford Ranger
Being the right size, having a high-quality cabin, and smoothing out the rough edges of traditional truck ownership are some of the reasons people gravitate towards the Ford Ranger. Its strong engine and off-road capabilities are another bonus.
There’s only one cab and bed configuration. However, they get their job done. There can be up to four feet of space between the wheel wells, which allows for a payload capacity of 1,805 lbs. It can also tow up to 7,500 lbs, and the Pro Trailer Backup Assist system lets the driver reverse with a trailer using a knob in the center console.
Once inside the truck, you have access to several driver-assisting features, including a backup camera and lane departure warning. The touchscreen that connects to your smartphone also allows for voice control. Combining all these features gives you a good bang for your buck.
Chevrolet Colorado
Being easy to control and a strong capability help the Chevrolet Colorado stand out in the crowd. The specialized ZR2 trims make it ideal for offroading. When it comes to midsize trucks, it’s at the top of its game.
Quick acceleration, strong towing and upgradable engine options make it an appealing option. It’s fairly easy to drive because the 2.7 litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine works well for city driving and towing. The door pockets allow for interior storage. As per towing capacity, it’s up to 7,700 lbs, and the payload caps out at 1,685 lbs.
Now, onto the interior. The control knobs on the inside of the truck are big and easy to navigate. When you’re sitting in the vehicle, the blind spots aren’t too bad, either. It’s also simple to use the touchscreen for your tech needs, and the front part of the cabin gives plenty of space for taller drivers and passengers. As a result, you might want to consider this midsize pickup truck.
Honda Ridgeline
If you’re looking for a more refined, luxurious-feeling pickup truck, consider the Honda Ridgeline. Alongside a plethora of storage options, you get the basic tech features. There’s also the option for hauling, towing, and off-roading. You could even look at it as a crossover sport utility vehicle (SUV) based on the way it looks.
One of the best parts about this vehicle is that it doesn’t drive like a traditional pickup. You can make smooth turns but still feel comfortable when driving over bumps. Additionally, if you frequently transport lumber and gravel, it’s your lucky day. The 1,583 lb payload allows you to do so, and the 5,000 lb towing capacity is enough for basic towing tasks.
When you step into the vehicle, you’ll feel comfortable and confident. Cruise control, forward collision mitigation, and lane-keeping assistance will keep you safe. You can also connect all of your devices like you would with any modern vehicle. If you aren’t looking for the best truck but want one that has the capabilities of popular vehicles, this one is here for you.
Best full-size trucks
Although they aren’t always the most fuel-efficient, full-size pickup trucks are known for giving you access to an extended cab and massive towing capacities. They also likely have a great bed length for all your storage needs. Although we can’t name the best full-size pickup truck, we have a couple of suggestions below:
Ford F-150
Power, efficiency, comfort, capability — what more could you ask for in a pickup truck!? The Ford F-150 also offers a variety of configurations and options. With that said, it’s one of the heavy-duty trucks to consider if you’re looking for the essentials.
First, the direct and quick steering makes it feel smaller than it is. However, let’s get into the important parts, like the towing and payload capacity. It can tow up to 13,500 lbs and has a payload of 2,455 lbs. The hybrid powertrain assists with towing and carrying heavy equipment from place to place, making it ideal for workers.
Once you step inside, you will notice just how spacious the pickup is. Alongside the basic tech features, it has something called a Power Pro Onboard. It allows you to turn your F-150 hybrid into a generator, making it perfect for driving off-grid construction jobs or camping. There’s also the BlueCruise hands-free driver-assist program to keep you safe. It’s hard to top, for sure.
Ram 1500
The Ram 1500 is a smooth ride with lots of capability. Its rear suspension design makes it comfortable. Even without a diesel engine, it can still do the towing job that heavy-duty trucks are known for. In the future, an electric model will be available for environmentally conscious drivers.
This vehicle has what you need if you’re after storage, towing, and carrying decent-sized loads. It can carry 11,000-12,000 lbs, which is fairly standard for its size. Additionally, there are locking bins built into the truck bed, which is ideal for storing tools and other expensive equipment. Inside, there’s also a huge centre console and compartments in the floor if desired.
Now, let’s explore some more of the interior features. The 12-inch touchscreen allows you to connect your smartphone, and there are also USB ports. There is also lots of legroom for you and your passengers. The big windows and efficient hood design also make it easy to see. Overall, this truck is a decent pick.
Toyota Tundra
Over the years, the Toyota Tundra has grown in popularity, and that’s for a good reason. It delivers an enjoyable driving experience and a comfortable cabin for your next job or road trip. There are multiple cab styles, two engines, three-bed lengths and various trim levels to choose from.
This vehicle makes braking and offroading easy. Its long wheelbase makes it more than comfortable, and the 3.5-litre V6 more than gets the job done. It can tow up to 11,120 lbs and will do what you need it to do. The truck bed, under seat, and small item storage compartments are also more than enough for the average driver and passenger.
On the inside is the biggest touchscreen on this entire list, clocking in at 14 inches. There’s also a JBL sound system that makes turning up your favourite tunes even better. There’s also the option of a panoramic sunroof and a full-width power rear window. Alongside the spacious seating, you can feel even cooler on hot summer days. This vehicle offers a driving experience unlike any other.
Best heavy-duty trucks
Most people don’t need heavy duty trucks. They are the highest priced trucks on the market and sacrifice comfort for strength. However, this won’t matter for those using the vehicle for work on a regular basis. Their performance is their most appealing feature for those who want to shell out the extra cash. Keep reading to find out more:
Ram 2500
The high-tech features, unmatched towing capacity, and interior make the Ram 2500 one of the top choices when it comes to heavy duty trucks. It’s unique in the sense that the diesel engine is fairly quiet compared to its counterparts.
Starting and stopping the truck isn’t too bad. Its four-wheel drive also makes it great for off-roading. On the other hand, it has a great towing and storage capacity. It can tow as much as 17,740 lbs and has a rear suspension that simplifies trailer hookups. There’s also a big centre console bin to store all your belongings and other interior storage options.
The interior is where the truck really shines compared to other heavy-duty trucks. The buttons and interior controls are easy to use. Additionally, there’s a lot of room to sit down in the front and back seats. Basic tech features include the ability to have steps extend out of your entryways to make getting in a breeze. Overall, it’s a good choice for a heavy-duty truck.
Chevrolet Silverado 2500
If you’re looking for an affordable heavy-duty pickup truck, the Chevrolet Silverado 2500 might be just what you need. It cuts the costs by making some sacrifices when it comes to comfort. However, if you need the high towing capacity without the bells and whistles, it’s a good choice.
The power of this truck alone can be a reason to purchase it. Driving is easy and smooth despite weighing a couple of tons. However, its storage and towing abilities are its highlights. There’s a camera system that simplifies towing up to 22,500 lbs, which works well for those who need to transport large loads from place to place.
On the inside, the vehicle does what you need it to. The seats are soft enough, and the climate control system can heat up or cool down the cabin in an instant. They are also quite high, making it easy to see out the windows. There’s also a 13.4-inch touchscreen with smartphone connectivity and driver-assistance features. If you need a work vehicle, consider this one.
Even the most popular vehicles aren’t perfect. However, there’s still probably a vehicle that fits your price range while suiting your needs. With pickup trucks, there are many types to choose from. The model, make, trim, colour, and everything in between are up to you, but this is a purchase you should think long and hard about. You will also need car insurance, which we will discuss in the next section.
Pickup truck insurance
Whether you own a Ram, Chevrolet or a Ford, you’ll need to insure your pickup truck. Otherwise, you risk paying for damages out of pocket and a massive fine. Insurance companies take into account a few considerations when insuring pickup trucks. It might have you asking, “How much is car insurance per month in Ontario?” That’s why we’re going to supply you with all the information you need to know about when insuring pickups. Keep reading to uncover the key factors insurance companies consider when insuring pickup trucks:
Definition of pickup trucks
With so many vehicles on the road, your insurance company will first determine if you’re actually driving a pickup truck or not. After all, hybrids and SUVs exist. An insurance company will define your vehicle as a pickup truck if it has a closed front cab and an open bed with a tailgate. They are used for various purposes, including everyday use, towing, hauling and business practices. That’s why there are so many types of auto insurance.
Costs of insurance for pickup trucks
Insuring pickup trucks isn’t any different from insuring any other vehicle. However, like with any vehicle, your premiums will vary. As usual, the type of truck, make, model, features, location, driving history, coverage needs, and vehicle use make a difference. Your best bet is to speak with a broker or insurance agent directly to determine the price. This is especially true if you’re looking for Toronto car insurance, which can be quite costly.
Lowering your pickup truck insurance premiums
Insuring pickups is more expensive than their counterparts due to their high replacement costs. However, there are a few things you can do to lower the costs of your insurance premiums. These things can be as simple as choosing a truck with a higher safety rating and installing an anti-theft device. You can also buy used or increase your deductible. Calling around for quotes can also help you find the liability car insurance you need at the right price.
Having the proper car insurance for your pickup truck is essential because the costs aren’t cheap if you get into a common car accident. However, you can avoid incidents by following our safe driving tips. You can get the most out of your pickup truck by taking precautions on the road. After all, you wouldn’t want to damage your vehicle after investing so much money.
Insure your pickup truck by speaking with BrokerLink!
Pickup trucks need insurance like any other vehicle. Not only does car insurance keep you safe on the road, but it also compensates you in the event of an accident. This is true whether you enjoy the convenience of small pickup trucks or the capabilities of full-size pickup trucks.
There are many car insurance policies available to choose from. Some are mandatory, while others are not. This is important to keep in mind because only getting the coverage you need can save you money if you are a safe driver. Here are the common types of car insurance policies that people opt into:
After investing your money into purchasing the best pickup truck, you want to keep it safe. Having the right car insurance policies can help you protect your vehicle and pay for damages to your vehicle if you get into an accident. What are you waiting for? Contact BrokerLink to find the insurance policy that helps you and your pickup truck thrive on the road.
Get an auto insurance quote [phone]
