Carrying 2000 lbs cargo across endless rough terrain or lonely treks along the interstate highway require nothing less than popular picks Chevy Silverado, the Ford F-150, and the Dodge Ram. Each pickup offers its own distinct set of features new for 2011, like the F-150´s SYNC Infotainment stsrtem and the Dodge Ram´s coil over suspension for arguably the best ride in its class.
Let´s take a look into three of the hottest heavy duty pickups on the market.
Chevrolet Silverado
The Silverado squeaks by the Ford F-150 and Dodge Ram as King with tons of options for its engines, bed lengths, and trims. It comes in both two-wheel or four-wheel drive and has three types of beds; regular, crew, and extended. It´s primarily known as a workman´s truck, focusing less on luxury items for standard features as does the Ford F-150 and concentrating more on fuel economy (V6 gets 15 mpg city/20 mph highway) and the smoothest acceleration in its class. It´s hauling is above average, capable of moving 1,880 pounds (1930 pounds with four-wheel drive) However, the Silverado skimps on interior features and has less storage space its competitors are best known for.
Ford F-150
¨Built Ford Tough¨ applies to the F-150, with an impressive line of awards; having won the 2009 North American Truck of the Year and Motor Trend´s 2009 Truck of the Year, an outstanding accomplishment. The 2010 version impresses with better fuel economy, a new 6.2 liter engine reaching 400 horsepower, and interior innovation like its MyKey Safety system which allows speed and audio volume to be controlled (limited) for inexperienced drivers. Audible low fuel warnings, seat belt reminders, and programmed sounds inform drivers when certain speeds are being reached.
The F-150´s interior is also loaded with high tech features, most notably a 700-watt Sony sound system, a SYNC voice controlled command system, and optional navigation. Most impressive is its Work Solutions dashboard (optional); a mini, in-dash computer equipped with wireless keyboard, a touhc screen, and a Bluetooth printer in what arguably makes the most technologically advanced interior in its class.
Dodge Ram 1500
The Dodge Ram 1500 has lagged behind the Ford F-150 and the Silverado in public perception, largely because of its mediocre reliability ratings over the last couple of years. However, a revamped interior, sedan-like acceleration, and cool handling keeps the Ram close.
If you´re in the market for a Dodge Ram, look to buy the 2009 version which is largely the same model as the 2010. What sets it apart is its lifetime powertrain warranty (as opposed to the 2010´s 5-year/100,000 mile warranty) which should ease reliability fears a bit.
