Jeep Gladiator
This is the first time since the 90’s that Jeep has offered a pickup with a cargo bed. Jeep’s Gladiator is essentially the flagship Jeep Wrangler with more utility and versatility. The mid-size pickup truck is tows more, with a 7760 pound limit compared to 3500 pounds with its SUV counterpart. Arguably, its longer wheelbase also provides better ride comfort. It does however, feel more difficult to control than the relatively nimbler Wrangler. Along with a 3.6L V6 engine paired to a stick shift, Jeep also offers a torquier diesel option. It can get relatively pricier, but it attempts to compensate with increased utility.
Ram 1500
The feature-packed and refined Ram 1500 is a contender for being the best in its class, with multiple awards and accolades to back it up. This is a pioneer of sorts; a pickup truck focused more on being refined and comfy while being capable, instead of the usual ruggedness that pickups are judged off of. With a luxury-spec interior and above par ride comfort, the Ram 1500 is a notch above its competition with exclusive options like its air suspension, built-in cargo-bed bins, split-folding tailgate, 12 inch infotainment. Along with a 6cylinder torquey diesel engine, Ram enhances its standard V-6 and optional Hemi V-8 with hybrid systems.
Honda Ridgeline
Honda’s pickup truck is a bit unconventional in its approach, as comparing it to competition would more than likely make it seem less capable – tows less than its competitors, who also offer legit off-road models, not to mention its below par braking performance. But it shines in providing a refined road experience, more practicality for a day to day experience and proper reliability as one would expect from a Japanese automaker. Moreover, a package of a multitude of features like its assortment of driver assists and multi-function tailgate makes the 2021 Honda Ridgeline a capable machine indeed. Powering the 4 wheels is a 3.5L V6 engine.
Ford F150Raptor
It’s not a pickup truck list without mentioning the F150 Raptor. Still as capable as ever, fitted with sophisticated offroad technology to help it do what it was meant to do best. For 2021, Ford refined the F150 and made it beefier, in order to compete with the Ram 1500 TRX, which took its crown recently this year. Still, the mighty twin turbo V6 outputs 450hp via a 10speed automatic transmission to all wheels, who are wrapped in 38-inch all terrain tyres so you can go anywhere, anytime.
RAM 1500 TRX
The most headturning pickup of the 2021 model year is undoubtedly the RAM 1500 TRX, the new king of pickup trucks. This is in essence the RAM 1500, but beefed up to the moon witha Hellcat powered 6.2L V8 outputting to all wheels. This 702hp pickup is as mighty and capable as it is luxurious and tech-packed on the inside. A machine not meant to be messed with.
Toyota Tacoma
The Tacoma is a fan favourite, and for good reason. It has served its consumers for a long time now ever since its inception and is truly Toyota with all its practicality and reliability. However, at face value its competition is certainly more capable on the offroad, and its interior leaves a lot to be desired. Fans are unyieldingly loyal though, and is still a popular option. The I4 and V-6 engine options aren’t all that impressive, but the TRD models are notably capable off the roads.
