beebs
Boy is sitting on a truck tailgate while his smiling father helps him set up his fishing rod.
2021 RAM 2500 Laramie

1. Ram 2500

CarMax owner rating

Price range*
$29,998—$74,998
Estimated combined MPG
(data not available)
RepairPal reliability rating
3 out of 5

RepairPal Reliability Ratings are based on the actual cost, frequency, and severity of unscheduled repairs and maintenance on make/model data for select 2008-2022 vehicles. The reliability of a specific vehicle may vary depending on its maintenance and driving history, model year, trim, and features. RepairPal Reliability Ratings are provided by RepairPal and CarMax is not responsible for their accuracy. These ratings are based on RepairPal Reliability data as of August 2023. Learn more about RepairPal reliability ratings

Pros

  • Impressive engine choices
  • Rebel trim adds new off-road option
  • Useful trailering technology

Cons

  • Cummins diesel engine is noisy
  • High driver position may be challenging for some drivers
  • Fuel economy of only 15-20 mpg in actual use
2020 RAM 1500 Laramie

2. Ram 1500

CarMax owner rating

Price range*
$16,998—$65,998
Estimated combined MPG
12 MPG
RepairPal reliability rating
3.5 out of 5

RepairPal Reliability Ratings are based on the actual cost, frequency, and severity of unscheduled repairs and maintenance on make/model data for select 2008-2022 vehicles. The reliability of a specific vehicle may vary depending on its maintenance and driving history, model year, trim, and features. RepairPal Reliability Ratings are provided by RepairPal and CarMax is not responsible for their accuracy. These ratings are based on RepairPal Reliability data as of August 2023. Learn more about RepairPal reliability ratings

Pros

  • Plenty of useful cabin storage
  • The benchmark light-duty truck for ride quality

Cons

  • Driver-assist technology only offered on upper trims
  • Small rearview mirror
2016 Ford F-250 SD Lariat

3. Ford F250

CarMax owner rating

Price range*
$22,998—$78,998
Estimated combined MPG
(data not available)
RepairPal reliability rating
2.5 out of 5

RepairPal Reliability Ratings are based on the actual cost, frequency, and severity of unscheduled repairs and maintenance on make/model data for select 2008-2022 vehicles. The reliability of a specific vehicle may vary depending on its maintenance and driving history, model year, trim, and features. RepairPal Reliability Ratings are provided by RepairPal and CarMax is not responsible for their accuracy. These ratings are based on RepairPal Reliability data as of August 2023. Learn more about RepairPal reliability ratings

Pros

  • Four-wheel drive is standard on most trims
  • Plenty of standard and available tow tech
  • Four available powertrain options
  • Spacious cabs that prioritize connectivity and comfort

Cons

  • Ride height can be a challenge on entry and exit
  • Downtown maneuvers will be challenging at this size
2021 RAM 3500 Big Horn

4. Ram 3500

CarMax owner rating

Price range*
$31,998—$74,998
Estimated combined MPG
(data not available)
RepairPal reliability rating
2.5 out of 5

RepairPal Reliability Ratings are based on the actual cost, frequency, and severity of unscheduled repairs and maintenance on make/model data for select 2008-2022 vehicles. The reliability of a specific vehicle may vary depending on its maintenance and driving history, model year, trim, and features. RepairPal Reliability Ratings are provided by RepairPal and CarMax is not responsible for their accuracy. These ratings are based on RepairPal Reliability data as of August 2023. Learn more about RepairPal reliability ratings

Pros

  • Massive towing capability
  • Comfortable and quiet cabin
  • Intuitive infotainment system

Cons

  • Diesel can be noisy
  • Can be challenging to park
  • Diesel powertrain is expensive
2022 GMC Sierra 1500 AT4X

5. GMC Sierra 1500

CarMax owner rating

Price range*
$17,998—$73,998
Estimated combined MPG
16 MPG
RepairPal reliability rating
3.5 out of 5

RepairPal Reliability Ratings are based on the actual cost, frequency, and severity of unscheduled repairs and maintenance on make/model data for select 2008-2022 vehicles. The reliability of a specific vehicle may vary depending on its maintenance and driving history, model year, trim, and features. RepairPal Reliability Ratings are provided by RepairPal and CarMax is not responsible for their accuracy. These ratings are based on RepairPal Reliability data as of August 2023. Learn more about RepairPal reliability ratings

Pros

  • Four powertrain options capable of towing and hauling
  • Controls and infotainment are easy to navigate
  • Passenger conveniences are plentiful

Cons

  • Full-size structure inhibits visibility
  • More ride feedback than rival models
2023 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD Custom

6. Chevrolet Silverado 2500

CarMax owner rating

Price range*
$25,998—$62,998
Estimated combined MPG
(data not available)
RepairPal reliability rating
3 out of 5

RepairPal Reliability Ratings are based on the actual cost, frequency, and severity of unscheduled repairs and maintenance on make/model data for select 2008-2022 vehicles. The reliability of a specific vehicle may vary depending on its maintenance and driving history, model year, trim, and features. RepairPal Reliability Ratings are provided by RepairPal and CarMax is not responsible for their accuracy. These ratings are based on RepairPal Reliability data as of August 2023. Learn more about RepairPal reliability ratings

2024 Ford F-350 XLT

7. Ford F350

CarMax owner rating

Price range*
$38,998—$81,998
Estimated combined MPG
(data not available)
RepairPal reliability rating
2.5 out of 5

RepairPal Reliability Ratings are based on the actual cost, frequency, and severity of unscheduled repairs and maintenance on make/model data for select 2008-2022 vehicles. The reliability of a specific vehicle may vary depending on its maintenance and driving history, model year, trim, and features. RepairPal Reliability Ratings are provided by RepairPal and CarMax is not responsible for their accuracy. These ratings are based on RepairPal Reliability data as of August 2023. Learn more about RepairPal reliability ratings

Pros

  • Advanced and capable drivetrains
  • Abundant payload and towing capacity
  • Luxurious, high-tech interior on premium trim levels

Cons

  • Difficult to navigate in urban environments
  • Brake feel isn't as consistent as we'd like
  • All those premium features and advanced technologies will cost you
2022 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 ZR2

8. Chevrolet Silverado 1500

CarMax owner rating

Price range*
$17,998—$67,998
Estimated combined MPG
15 MPG
RepairPal reliability rating
3.5 out of 5

RepairPal Reliability Ratings are based on the actual cost, frequency, and severity of unscheduled repairs and maintenance on make/model data for select 2008-2022 vehicles. The reliability of a specific vehicle may vary depending on its maintenance and driving history, model year, trim, and features. RepairPal Reliability Ratings are provided by RepairPal and CarMax is not responsible for their accuracy. These ratings are based on RepairPal Reliability data as of August 2023. Learn more about RepairPal reliability ratings

2018 GMC Sierra 2500HD Denali

9. GMC Sierra 2500

CarMax owner rating

Price range*
$36,998—$90,998
Estimated combined MPG
(data not available)
RepairPal reliability rating
3 out of 5

RepairPal Reliability Ratings are based on the actual cost, frequency, and severity of unscheduled repairs and maintenance on make/model data for select 2008-2022 vehicles. The reliability of a specific vehicle may vary depending on its maintenance and driving history, model year, trim, and features. RepairPal Reliability Ratings are provided by RepairPal and CarMax is not responsible for their accuracy. These ratings are based on RepairPal Reliability data as of August 2023. Learn more about RepairPal reliability ratings

2023 Ford F-150 Limited

10. Ford F150

CarMax owner rating

Price range*
$14,998—$78,998
Estimated combined MPG
16 MPG
RepairPal reliability rating
3.5 out of 5

RepairPal Reliability Ratings are based on the actual cost, frequency, and severity of unscheduled repairs and maintenance on make/model data for select 2008-2022 vehicles. The reliability of a specific vehicle may vary depending on its maintenance and driving history, model year, trim, and features. RepairPal Reliability Ratings are provided by RepairPal and CarMax is not responsible for their accuracy. These ratings are based on RepairPal Reliability data as of August 2023. Learn more about RepairPal reliability ratings

Pros

  • Plenty of powertrain options
  • High tech, and highly-accessible infotainment system
  • Impressive max towing figures
  • Useful add-on options for a working truck

Cons

  • No diesel engine option, unlike its competitors
  • Hybrid powertrain option is noisy when powering the available onboard generator

Ready to find your diesel-powered pickup?

How we ranked this list

To create our "Best Of" lists, our analysts look at CarMax vehicle and sales data over a recent 6-month period, from September 2023 through February 2024. Looking back over a 6-month period allows for the highest sample size possible while also providing up-to-date pricing information. Some articles may include data points with lower sample sizes.

***

RepairPal Reliability Ratings are based on the actual cost, frequency, and severity of unscheduled repairs and maintenance on make/model data for select 2006-2020 vehicles. The reliability of a specific vehicle may vary depending on its maintenance and driving history, model year, trim, and features. RepairPal Reliability Ratings are provided by RepairPal and CarMax is not responsible for their accuracy.

Fuel economy figures are based on EPA estimates for when vehicle sold as new. Fuel economy may vary for reasons like driving conditions and vehicle history. Unless specified, figures are for vehicles equipped with an automatic transmission. See fueleconomy.gov.

Range figures are based on EPA estimates for when vehicle sold as new and assume a full battery charge. Range will vary based on things like battery age, vehicle condition and history, driving and charging habits, accessory use, and driving conditions. Battery capacity may decrease with time and use. See fueleconomy.gov for more info.

* Price excludes taxes, title, registration, and fees. Applicable transfer fees are due in advance of vehicle delivery and are separate from sales transactions.

We hope you found this information helpful. This content is intended to inform and is not meant to provide legal, financial or investment advice. We make every effort to provide accurate information, but please verify before transacting and consider talking to a qualified professional about your unique circumstances.​

Statements of fuel economy or EV range are based on EPA and other third-party estimates for vehicles when new. Fuel economy and EV range will degrade with time and vary based on age, driving conditions, vehicle history, and other conditions. See fueleconomy.gov for more info.

Unless otherwise noted, information related to featured vehicles comes from third-party sources, including manufacturer information. Product and company names may be trademarks or registered trademarks of third-party entities. Use of them does not imply any affiliation with or endorsement by these entities.