What’s the Best New Pickup Truck of 2023?

Are there any trucks that are new for the current model year? Of these, which one is the best new pickup truck that could become the one you drive every day?

The team at Cars.com selected three trucks that are significantly revised for the latest model year. These pickups offer the most power, capability, and value combined, as judged by this team. You might feel there are a few trucks that should be on the list that aren’t, but we’ll reserve that for a different conversation. These trucks are designed to be functional, and offer impressive payload capacity, towing power, and the desired level of value.

The Ford Maverick hits all the right notes

Cars.com chose the Ford Maverick as the Best Pickup Truck for the second year in a row. Currently, no other trims come at the same low price as the Maverick, making it the truck with the best value. When you need a truck made to get things done, its hard to beat the Maverick, unless you must have a much larger truck. Ford offers an appealing lineup of trims and several excellent features to make the Maverick the compact truck that delivers everything desired.

What are the powertrains of the Ford Maverick

The standard powertrain for this small truck is a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine that mates to a CVT. This setup returns 191 horsepower and 155 lb-ft of torque. You’ll enjoy 42 city/33 hwy mpg, which makes this version a great choice when you need a truck that’s good in the city.

The Ford Maverick is also the best new pickup truck for the upgraded powertrain offered. This system gives you a 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine pumping out 250 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. When properly equipped, this more powerful setup offers up to 4,000 pounds of towing capacity.

How is the 2023 Maverick a better truck?

When you look at the newest lineup for the Ford Maverick, you’ll find an appealing Tremor Off-Road Package. This allows the Maverick to be a much more capable off-road truck. The package includes an improved AWD system, a better cooling system, a new suspension, and improved tires that make this truck much more capable. The cabin area offers the option to have some features custom printed using a 3D printer, and the bed provides several great configurations for carrying various items wherever you need to go.

The Ford F-150 Lightning is a finalist

Although the Ford F-150 Lightning, like the Maverick, was new for 2022, it’s been upgraded to put it in contention for this award from Cars.com. The new F-150 Lightning is one of the best new pickup trucks in the market. As the most popular electric truck offered, the F-150 Lightning is already establishing its place as a leader in this segment. The Lightning isn’t as gimmicky as some might have thought it would be when it first arrived; instead, it’s a fully functional truck that has the strength and capability desired.

Driving range and power for the F-150 Lightning

This Ford electric truck comes in several configurations. Like its gas-powered counterpart, Ford insists you’ll find a version of the Lighting that works great for nearly every job. The power output ranges from 452-580 horsepower, and the driving range offers 240-320 miles. The towing power reaches 10,000 pounds, and you’ll love the added benefits of the massive power frunk. The frunk is a trunk area that’s placed where the engine used to be, giving you a large area to store some items during your drive. This electric truck has everything you need.

You’ll find lots of room inside the Lightning

Electric vehicles offer more room inside than gas-powered vehicles. The movement of the powertrain to the axles removes the need for a transmission tunnel or the engine at the front or rear of the vehicle. The cabin of this new F-150 Lightning is spacious and upscale, making it a wonderful place for you to enjoy a drive. If you’re looking for one of the best new pickup trucks offered, the Ford F-150 Lightning will be on your list. The Pro Power Onboard generator is great for times when you need some power for tools or appliances, and the tech features of this truck are pretty incredible.

The new 2023 Ram 1500 is a great choice

Although the Ram 1500 hasn’t had any major updates in a few years, Cars.com ranks it as a finalist as the best truck of 2023. This truck has a ton of amazing features and qualities, giving you several ways to enjoy a truck that has everything you’re looking for. The Ram 1500 features a high-quality cabin with a top-notch design that makes the cabin better than other full-size trucks. It’s easy to admire the comfort, space, and variety offered for this pickup.

There’s a Ram 1500 for everyone

Ram offers several great powertrains and packages that make it easy for you to enjoy the drive that makes sense. Whether the basic 3.6-liter V6 Pentastar engine with mild-hybrid assist or the Hellcat engine is right for you, this truck has what you’re looking for. You’ll find four different engines offered for this impressive Ram truck. These engines bring names you know, like Hemi and Hellcat. There’s even a hardcore off-road truck that is the most powerful in its class. This truck is the Ram 1500 TRX.

Why is this Ram a finalist over other trucks?

Cars.com chose the Ram 1500 instead of the GM models as a finalist because the Uconnect infotainment system of the Ram 1500 is still one of the best systems in the market. The GM system uses a Google-based package that has some faults that you don’t find in the Ram. The Ram 1500 is one of the best new pickup trucks offered with its variety of trims and appearance packages, including an opulent western-themed model with leather-lined front seats, impressive coil-sprung rear axle, and available air suspension.

Which of these three trucks is the right one for you? The Ford Maverick, Ford F-150 Lightning, and Ram 1500 are all finalists for the best new pickup truck of the year from Cars.com.