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The 6 best full-size trucks of 2019
Compare these pickups based on reliability, price and horsepower.
If you’re planning on hooking up a trailer or hauling some serious cargo, these full-size trucks may help round out your list of potential candidates.
How did we choose these trucks?
We selected these trucks based on the starting MSRP of the basic trim, their reliability and safety ratings and the power behind each vehicle. While warranty should play a role in your final decision, note that each manufacturer on this list offers a limited five-year, 60,000-mile powertrain warranty — but the bumper-to-bumper coverage may vary.
Top 6 full-size trucks of 2019
These trucks offer plenty of power at a relatively competitive starting price.
2019 Ford F-150
- Starting MSRP: $28,155
- Engine: 3.3L Ti-VCT V6
- Horsepower: 290
2020 Chevrolet Silverado 1500
- Starting MSRP: $28,300
- Engine: 3.3L Ti-VCT V6
- Horsepower: 355
2019 Nissan Titan
- Starting MSRP: $30,690
- Engine: 5.6L Endurance V8
- Horsepower: 390
2019 Toyota Tundra
- Starting MSRP: $31,670
- Engine: 4.6L Aluminum i-FORCE V8
- Horsepower: 310
2019 Ram 1500
- Starting MSRP: $33,440
- Engine: 3.6L V6 24V VVT
- Horsepower: 305
2019 GMC Sierra 1500
- Starting MSRP: $37,495
- Engine: 4.3L EcoTec3 V6 engine
- Horsepower: 285
2019 Ford F-150
- MPG: 19/25
- JD Power reliability rating: 3 out of 5 stars
- NHTSA safety rating: 5 out of 5 stars
The Ford F-150 is a classic option, but not the most reliable or powerful. Still, its basic trim is the least expensive on the list and it’s one of the most fuel efficient on and off the highway. Plus, it’s the safest truck on this list — earning 5 out of 5 stars by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
2020 Chevrolet Silverado 1500
- MPG: 15/20
- JD Power reliability rating: 4 out of 5 stars
- NHTSA safety rating: 4 out of 5 stars
Chevy has already unveiled the 2020 model of the Silverado 1500, but there’s not much info on it. And while its estimated fuel economy is relatively low compared to the other options on the list, the 2019 model scored 4 out of 5 stars for both reliability and safety. Hopefully, you can expect similar ratings when the 2020 model is reviewed.
2019 Nissan Titan
- MPG: 15/21
- JD Power reliability rating: 3 out of 5 stars
- NHTSA safety rating: 4 out of 5 stars
The Nissan Titan comes in just over $30,000. And with its powerful engine and decent safety score, it could be a steal for the price. However, it isn’t the most reliable full-size out there, and U.S. News reported that it doesn’t have the hauling or towing power other trucks in its class are capable of.
2019 Toyota Tundra
- MPG: 15/19
- JD Power reliability rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
- NHTSA safety rating: 4 out of 5 stars
The Toyota Tundra lacks some of the more modern features found in other trucks, and its below-average fuel efficiency for both city and highway driving could mean you’ll end spending more at the pump. But if you’re looking for a reliable truck, it’s hard to beat the Tundra. Just keep in mind that while the NHTSA gives it a high safety rating, it didn’t score well on some of the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) tests.
2019 Ram 1500
- MPG: 17/25
- JD Power reliability rating: 4 out of 5 stars
- NHTSA safety rating: 4 out of 5 stars
The Ram 1500 came in first place on U.S. News and World Report’s list of best full-size pickup trucks. With high safety and reliability ratings and decent highway fuel economy, it’s easy to see why. But the basic trim only comes with a V6 engine. If you’re looking for more power, it will cost you to upgrade to a more luxurious trim.
2019 GMC Sierra 1500
- MPG: 17/23
- JD Power reliability rating: 3.5 out of 5 stars
- NHTSA safety rating: 4 out of 5 stars
The GMC Sierra 1500 offers a few engine options with each of its trims. And while it’s not the most reliable full-size truck out there, it scores high safety ratings and has relatively good fuel efficiency. However, the high price point may make its performance and interior — which is about equal to its less-expensive rivals — not worth the extra cost.
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What should I look for in a good full-size truck?
It depends on your needs, though you might want to pay close attention to the following factors when comparing your options:
- Cab size. While we selected the basic trims for our comparison, you may find that you need more than a double cab. Just remember that the larger your cab, the smaller your bed will be.
- Power. You need your truck to work with you, not against you. Find out how much power it has by looking at the engine size. And consider the maneuverability it offers by looking at its steering, cruise control and brake force distribution.
- Security. Check for features like central locking, an engine immobilizer, the number and location of airbags, an alarm system and central locking, fog lights and other exterior protectives. Many come standard with new vehicles or are available at an extra cost.
- Cost. Look at not only what you’ll pay up front, but ongoing costs in terms of fuel economy as well. Find out if the features on more top-of-the-line models are worth the jump in price before you buy.
- Warranty. Most manufacturers offer a standard five-year, 60,000-mile limited powertrain warranty, but bumper-to-bumper coverage and other warranties may differ.
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Updated November 18th, 2019
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Bottom line
A new full-size truck can be a powerful addition to your personal and work life. But before you settle on dealership rates, compare car loans first to get the best deal available to you.
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