Heavy-duty pickups are engineered to withstand the toughest conditions. They feature a high-strength steel frame, which comes in handy when hauling and towing big loads. Enhanced off-road capabilities make these trucks even more rewarding. If you need a heavy-duty truck for the job site, consider these five models.
2019 Nissan Titan XD
Those who enjoy a relaxing driving experience should definitely check out the 2019 Nissan Titan XD. Edmunds gives this heavy-duty workhorse an 8.0 out of 10.0 rating in comfort. Owners rave about the Titan XD’s smooth highway ride and cushy Zero Gravity seats. Even after a long day on the road, passengers will enjoy traveling in the Titan XD. Tall drivers can especially take advantage of the pickup’s extra front legroom.
Although the Titan XD isn’t the strongest model in the class, it still packs enough muscle for most tasks. A brawny V8 engine with 390 horsepower and 394 horsepower comes standard. You can step up to a diesel engine, which develops 310 horsepower and a noteworthy 555 lb-ft of torque. When called upon, this truck can confidently tow up to 12,760 pounds.
A robust 4×4 system with low-range gearing is available for folks who need more traction. Equipped with off-road shocks and skid plates, the Titan XD’s Pro-4X trim is made to tackle rougher terrain. Hill descent control also helps drivers to safely crawl down steep slopes.
Some nice entertainment features are offered. The available 12-speaker Fender audio system provides an enclosed subwoofer for stronger bass. Keep in mind that even the base model receives a color touch screen with built-in Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone connectivity.
2020 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD
The 2020 Chevy Silverado 2500HD is another great heavy-duty truck that can definitely handle the rigors of a job site. There are two capable powertrains to choose from. While the truck’s V8 gasoline engine develops 401 horsepower and 464 lb-ft of torque, Chevy’s Duramax diesel engine cranks out 445 horsepower and 910 lb-ft of torque. Furthermore, no other pickup in the segment has a larger cargo box.
You can expect the Silverado 2500HD to handle well for a full-size pickup. Upper trims feature an Active Hydraulic Assist steering system. It’s designed to make the truck easier to control on the road.
If you routinely travel with a team, they’ll especially appreciate the Silverado 2500HD’s excellent passenger room. Crew cab versions of the truck have an especially spacious backseat. Four full-size doors also enable everyone to easily climb inside.
The latest technologies are available on the Silverado 2500HD. Whether you’re working at a job site or taking an out-of-town trip, its available 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot allows you to stay connected to the web. Up to seven electronic devices can access the hotspot at once, which means every passenger can log into the internet. Drivers can also take advantage of the truck’s easy-to-use infotainment system. It only takes a few seconds to connect your smartphone to the interface.
Don’t forget about the pickup’s helpful towing technologies. Featuring a total of eight cameras, Chevy’s Advanced Trailering System takes the driver’s visibility to the next level. Meanwhile, a convenient trailering app enables you to perform a trailer light test and check trailer tire pressure.
2019 Ram 2500
The 2019 Ram 2500 is arguably the most comfortable pickup on this list. It feels more like a luxury vehicle as opposed to a heavy-duty truck. It offers a quiet and relaxing ride on the open road. Trims featuring a Mega Cab body style also provide a lot of space to spread out. With more than 45 inches of rear legroom, even the tallest of people can stretch out.
When at a job site, the Ram 2500’s available RamBox cargo management system will make things easier. It features two lockable storage compartments, which are integrated into the sides of the truck’s bed. From tools to emergency supplies, you’ll be able to tuck away a lot of extra stuff. These insulated storage compartments can even double as an ice chest, thus allowing you to keep cold beverages on hand.
Ford offers two engines on the Ram 2500. The standard Hemi V8 engine develops a competitive 410 horsepower and 429 lb-ft of torque. However, upgrading to the Cummings diesel engine enhances the truck’s towing capabilities. It develops a monstrous 1,000 lb-ft of torque, which gives you more grunt when pulling heavy cargo.
The Ram 2500 impresses with its smooth driving dynamics. A special air suspension is on the truck’s list of optional equipment. Not only does this class-exclusive suspension enhance ride quality, but it also improves handling when hauling big loads.
2019 GMC Sierra 2500HD
The 2019 GMC Sierra 2500HD is similar to the Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD. These two trucks are built on the same platform and share the same powertrain options. However, GMC builds the Sierra 2500HD to offer a more upscale driving experience. Among this pickup’s available premium amenities include perforated leather seats with contrast snitching, noise-control technology, and a heated steering wheel.
Even the Sierra 2500HD’s standard V8 engine feels potent during day-to-day driving. However, expect the Duramax diesel engine to pack more muscle. According to Kelley Blue Book, the diesel-powered Sierra 2500HD barely breaks a sweat when towing a 10,000-pound trailer uphill.
If your job site is in a rural area, the Sierra 2500HD’s optional All Terrain HD package will help you to overcome the rough conditions. This package comes with off-road shocks, metal skid plates, and all-terrain tires.
There are some intelligent safety technologies available for the Sierra 2500 HD. Forward collision alert helps prevent you from crashing into the rear of another vehicle. Meanwhile, a vibrating Safety Alert Seat warns drivers of a potential road hazard.
2020 Ford F-250 Super Duty
Few pickup trucks can rival the Ford Super Duty‘s superior towing capabilities. This is why it remains a favorite among drivers who need to routinely haul heavy loads. The pickup’s standard V8 gasoline engine is suitable for most towing tasks. However, Ford’s available Power Stroke diesel engine delivers the maximum pulling power with 1,050 pound-feet of torque.
The Super Duty’s optional Tremor Package will interest drivers who need to reach a remote work site. According to Car and Driver, it effectively increases the pickup’s ground clearance to 10.8 inches. Along with the package comes a Tremor Off-road Package, which automatically controls throttle and braking when driving over rough landscapes. Large mud tires and off-road shocks are included as well.
Like most of the trucks in this segment, the Ford Super Duty is spacious on the inside. Whether traveling locally or taking a long road trip, passengers should experience comfort. While even the base trim receives a 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot, technology lovers will enjoy using Ford’s SYNC 3 infotainment system.
At some job sites, the typical light-duty truck is not your best option. You need a truck that’s more durable. These five heavy-duty driving machines are certainly made to handle the extra workload.
