Ultimate Guide to Top Pickup Trucks (2016-2017): Find Your Perfect Vehicle
Explore the top pickup trucks from 2016 to 2017, featuring a range of options from compact to full-size models. This detailed guide highlights key features, performance, and suitability for diverse needs like towing, off-road, and daily driving. Ideal for buyers seeking reliable, stylish, and powerful trucks for work and leisure, the article provides insights into models such as Chevrolet Colorado, Silverado, Ford F-150, GMC Canyon, Sierra, Honda Ridgeline, Nissan Titan, and Toyota Tacoma. Discover the best truck for your lifestyle and budget with this comprehensive overview.
Ultimate Guide to Top Pickup Trucks (2016-2017): Find Your Perfect Vehicle
Between the years 2016 and 2017, the market for pickup trucks experienced a remarkable surge in popularity and sales. Over the past decade, pickup trucks have undergone a significant transformation from purely utilitarian workhorses to versatile vehicles that combine functionality, luxury, and lifestyle appeal. This evolution has led to increased vehicle prices, particularly for mid-size pickups, which have seen approximately a 6% increase, reflecting their profitability and popularity among consumers. Today, full-size and mid-size trucks are highly sought after, thanks to their adaptability for tasks such as towing, hauling, off-road adventures, and everyday commuting. For prospective buyers and enthusiasts, selecting the right pickup truck requires understanding the options available and what features best suit individual needs. This comprehensive guide explores some of the most popular and capable pickup trucks from 2016 and 2017, highlighting their key features, performance metrics, and suitability for various uses.
Chevrolet Colorado
The 2016 Chevrolet Colorado stands out as a compact pickup truck designed for those seeking power without the bulk of a full-size model. It offers an excellent balance of fuel efficiency and strong performance, especially with its available diesel engine options. The Colorado’s diesel variant returns impressive fuel economy figures — approximately 22 miles per gallon in city driving and up to 31 mpg on highways — making it an economical choice for daily commuting and long trips. This truck boasts a robust 369 lb-ft of torque, which enhances its towing and hauling capabilities, with a maximum towing capacity of up to 7,700 pounds. Its versatile design includes a crew cab configuration, providing ample space for passengers and cargo. Additionally, off-road enthusiasts can opt for packages like the Trail Boss, which enhance capabilities with features such as off-road suspension, skid plates, and all-terrain tires. The Colorado’s combination of fuel efficiency, power, and off-road potential makes it an ideal choice for adventurers and practical users alike.
Chevrolet Silverado
The Chevrolet Silverado remains one of the most popular full-size pickup trucks, renowned for its strength, durability, and luxurious features. By 2014, its redesign introduced more refined styling with a modern grille design, complemented by LED lighting elements especially on premium trims like the LTZ and High Country. These trims offer a host of luxury features, such as leather upholstery, advanced infotainment systems, and driver-assistance options, elevating the Silverado from utilitarian to premium vehicle. Notably, the 2014 update also integrated features like power-retractable running boards, WiFi connectivity, and wireless charging pads, catering to tech-savvy consumers. The Silverado’s engine lineup includes powerful V8 options and efficient six-cylinder variants, providing flexibility for different needs—from heavy-duty work to everyday driving. Its sturdy frame and towing capabilities, reaching up to 12,000 pounds when properly equipped, make it a dependable choice for hauling heavy loads. Whether for work or leisure, the Silverado’s combination of power, comfort, and advanced technology ensures it remains a top choice among full-size pickup trucks.
Ford F-150
The Ford F-150, a longstanding leader in the pickup market, received subtle yet impactful upgrades in 2016. Notable among these was the introduction of a trailer backup system, which simplifies reversing with trailers — a major convenience for towing. The truck also gained a 360-degree camera system, providing enhanced visibility during tight parking or tricky maneuvering, making it particularly appealing for city driving and off-road adventures. The XLT trim, one of the most popular configurations, offers impressive fuel efficiency, especially with the 2.7L V6 engine, which balances power and economy. The F-150 also features innovative options like Pro Trailer Backup Assist, allowing drivers to steer trailers with a simple knob, and stowable loading ramps for easier bed access. Its lightweight aluminum-alloy body contributes to reduced weight and increased payload capacity. Overall, the 2016 Ford F-150 combines modern technology, fuel efficiency, and practical features, making it highly versatile for work tasks, recreational use, and daily driving.
GMC Canyon
The GMC Canyon shares much of its engineering foundation with the Chevrolet Colorado but distinguishes itself through enhanced styling and exclusive features. The 2016 Canyon offered a reliable 2.8L Duramax diesel engine, which provided dependable power and excellent fuel economy, appealing to budget-conscious consumers and those needing a capable work vehicle. The Nightfall Edition, a popular trim, added a distinctive look with a color-matched grille and sporty accents, including optional 18-inch chrome wheels and a short bed configuration suitable for urban environments and lighter hauling needs. The Canyon’s engine options included a 2.5L inline-4, delivering 200 horsepower and 191 lb-ft of torque, along with a smooth-shifting 6-speed automatic transmission. Its capable chassis and towing capacity make it suitable for small business owners and outdoor enthusiasts seeking a practical yet stylish pickup.
GMC Sierra
The GMC Sierra offers a premium experience with its upscale trims, notably the Denali, which epitomizes luxury in the full-size truck segment. The Sierra Elevation trim adds a sporty but refined look with body-colored bumpers, door handles, and mirrors. Under the hood, it offers multiple engine options, including a fuel-efficient 4.3L V6 and a powerful 5.3L V8, providing excellent performance for various tasks. The Sierra is available in both two-wheel-drive and four-wheel-drive configurations, with extended cab options that maximize cargo space and passenger comfort. Its 20-inch wheels and modern styling cues give it a commanding presence on the road. Practical features like hill descent control, advanced trailering systems, and customizable interior options make the Sierra a versatile and luxurious pickup poised to meet demanding professional and personal needs.
Honda Ridgeline
The Honda Ridgeline is known for its car-like ride, offering a ride comfort and handling experience that sets it apart from traditional pickups. Its innovative open-bed design features a dual-action tailgate, which provides easier access and versatility. The Ridgeline also boasts a spacious and flexible in-bed trunk, offering additional storage space for tools and equipment. Fuel efficiency is another strong point; its powertrain emphasizes economy without sacrificing performance. The vehicle's ride quality, combined with its ample passenger space and features like the available in-bed audio system, make it an excellent choice for consumers looking for practicality and comfort in a pickup.
Nissan Titan
Introduced in 2016, the Nissan Titan positioned itself as a capable contender in the light- and heavy-duty truck segments. It features a robust 5.0L Cummins diesel engine rated at 310 horsepower, with 555 lb-ft of torque, making it a strong performer for towing and heavy-duty tasks. The Titan is equipped with advanced features such as integrated brake control, sway control, and downhill assist, enhancing stability and safety during demanding drives. Its premium interior, modern infotainment system, and high towing capacity make it suitable for both commercial applications and personal use. With its combination of durability, technology, and power, the Nissan Titan established itself as an attractive option for those seeking a rugged yet refined pickup.
Toyota Tacoma
The Toyota Tacoma has long been celebrated as the leading midsize pickup truck due to its reliability, performance, and off-road prowess. Powered by a 3.5L V6 engine producing 278 horsepower and 265 lb-ft of torque, the Tacoma is well-suited for a variety of tasks, including outdoor adventures and daily commuting. Its reputation for durability and low maintenance costs makes it a favorite among truck enthusiasts and professionals alike. The Tacoma offers various configurations, including different bed lengths and cab styles, making it adaptable for personal and commercial use. Its rugged design, combined with advanced safety features and a comfortable interior, ensures it remains a top choice in the competitive midsize truck segment, especially for those who prioritize performance and longevity.
