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Best Half-Ton Trucks of 2022

The half-ton truck gets its name not from its weight, but rather from its payload capacity. They are the middle ground between one-ton and ¾ ton trucks, offering more efficiency than the latter and usually less power than the former. Still, the best half-ton trucks offer impressive towing competencies and various body styles to choose from. This makes them ideal for those who don’t need a heavy-duty auto to do the job, but need a workhorse with an adept motor that is generally cheaper to buy.

Half-ton pickup trucks usually come with a selection between gas-fed and diesel powertrains, with the latter typically allowing for better towing figures thanks to the extra torque. Engines from top brands are usually highly reliable and the best ½ -ton truck will be extremely durable. This rugged dependability means you can pick up a good deal on a used model without sacrificing on quality.

See Also:

8 models
BuzzScore
Design
Performance
MPG
Interior
Infotainment
Reliability
Safety
Value
#1
2022 Ram 1500
#1
Ram 1500
$36,500 - $66,285
Price (MSRP)
20/26 mpg
City/Hwy
305 hp
Horsepower
9.3
9.3
BuzzScore
10
Design
10
Performance
8
MPG
10
Interior
10
Infotainment
8
Reliability
9
Safety
9
Value
#2
2021 Ford F-150 Raptor
#2
Ford F-150 Raptor
$64,145
Price (MSRP)
15/18 mpg
City/Hwy
450 hp
Horsepower
9.3
9.3
BuzzScore
10
Design
10
Performance
6
MPG
10
Interior
10
Infotainment
10
Reliability
9
Safety
9
Value
#3
2021 Ford F-150
#3
Ford F-150
$29,290 - $76,530
Price (MSRP)
20/24 mpg
City/Hwy
290 hp
Horsepower
9.1
9.1
BuzzScore
8
Design
9
Performance
8
MPG
10
Interior
10
Infotainment
10
Reliability
9
Safety
9
Value
#4
2021 GMC Sierra 1500
#4
GMC Sierra 1500
$30,100 - $59,600
Price (MSRP)
16/21 mpg
City/Hwy
285 hp
Horsepower
8.5
8.5
BuzzScore
8
Design
9
Performance
8
MPG
8
Interior
9
Infotainment
10
Reliability
8
Safety
8
Value
#5
2022 GMC Sierra 1500 Limited
#5
GMC Sierra 1500 Limited
$31,200 - $60,400
Price (MSRP)
19/22 mpg
City/Hwy
310 hp
Horsepower
8.4
8.4
BuzzScore
7
Design
9
Performance
8
MPG
8
Interior
9
Infotainment
10
Reliability
8
Safety
8
Value
#6
2022 Chevrolet Silverado 1500
#6
Chevrolet Silverado 1500
$34,600 - $68,400
Price (MSRP)
19/22 mpg
City/Hwy
310 hp
Horsepower
8.4
8.4
BuzzScore
7
Design
9
Performance
8
MPG
8
Interior
9
Infotainment
10
Reliability
8
Safety
8
Value
#7
2022 Ram 1500 Classic
#7
Ram 1500 Classic
$29,650 - $47,540
Price (MSRP)
17/25 mpg
City/Hwy
305 hp
Horsepower
8.3
8.3
BuzzScore
8
Design
8
Performance
7
MPG
8
Interior
9
Infotainment
8
Reliability
8
Safety
10
Value
#8
2022 Nissan Titan
#8
Nissan Titan
$38,810 - $60,780
Price (MSRP)
16/21 mpg
City/Hwy
400 hp
Horsepower
7.8
7.8
BuzzScore
8
Design
8
Performance
7
MPG
7
Interior
8
Infotainment
8
Reliability
9
Safety
7
Value

Advice for Choosing the Best Half-ton Trucks

There are many of these high-riders for sale in 2020, so it will be worth your while to peruse all of the specs before signing the papers:

  • Capability - While they aren’t the powerhouses that one-tonners are, they still need to produce enough power for those who want to get some work done. Be sure to research exactly what each powertrain/body combination is proficient at.
  • Fuel efficiency - Normally, you’ll have a choice between a gas-fed or diesel motor. In most cases, the diesel variants deliver higher torque, which means better towing scope. They also have better fuel consumption figures.
  • Interiors - Passenger space depends on the cab type. Most models offer three- or five-seater set-ups. Base models in this segment usually have basic infotainment and convenience features, while top-level trims enjoy premium materials and modern tech for a higher price.

Most Reliable Half-ton Pickup Truck

The GMC Sierra 1500 has had a good run so far, with only two recalls issued for the 2019 model. It received a predictability rating of 3.5 out of five from J.D. Power and the truck has a three-year or 36,000-mile basic warranty and a five-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty. With the 5.8-liter V8 equipped, it hauls over 11,000 pounds.

What to Consider Before Buying

There are many reasons as to why people opt for these high-riding haulers. But there are also a few downsides that are worth noting:

Pros

  • Extensive engine options
  • Good towing aptitude
  • Luxurious interiors on apex grades
  • A host of different body and bed types

Cons

  • Not as fuel-efficient as a smaller option
  • Less accomplished than bigger trucks
  • High maintenance costs
  • Stiffer ride quality

Best ½ ton Truck for the Money

The RAM 1500 is excellent value for your cash and has a reasonable MSRP of just over $32k. While it’s not the most inexpensive of them all, you get notable bang for your buck in comparison, and there are many configurations available. The truck tows up to 12,750 pounds when rigged correctly with the HEMI V8. The range-topping Laramie is the best value proposition and costs upwards of $40k.

FAQs

What is a good model to buy if I’m looking for style and hauling skill?

If your purse strings aren’t particularly tight, the Ford F-150 Raptor is highly recommended. It boasts excellent capability and the all-American style appeals to most buyers. Beyond that, the interior on the upper-end of the lineup is really lavish, too.

How do I know if I have chosen the right one amidst all of the half-ton pickup trucks?

With so many options, it’s easy to be indecisive when the final hour arrives. Try renting a few of your favorites for a week at a time. And, if you want to save some extra cash, think about purchasing a 2019 model.

Check out our reviews for more information.

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