SUVs and trucks dominate the American automotive landscape, and among these workhorses, 6-cylinder engines have emerged as a compelling choice. Offering a strong balance of power, size, and capability, these engines are a popular option. Whether it’s a V6 or an inline-six, the six-cylinder configuration is revered for its performance potential, delivering the necessary power for hauling and utility. Here’s a look at the best 6-cylinder pickup trucks for sale in the USA for 2025. BuzzScores are assigned relative to direct segment competitors, and as such, vehicles on this list may not directly compete with one another.
2025 Ram 1500
BuzzScore: 8.7/10 Base MSRP: $40,275 Engine: 3.6L V6 Gas, 3.0L Inline 6 Gas Horsepower: 305-420 hp
The Ram 1500 takes the top spot on this list. While other full-size trucks continue to offer V8 options, the Ram 1500 has embraced the future by leaving the V8 behind, and now offers a 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged straight-six-cylinder “Hurricane” engine that produces 420 horsepower and 469 lb-ft of torque. There’s also a high-output version of that engine, which delivers a staggering 540 hp and 521 lb-ft, alongside a 3.6-liter V6 rated at 305 hp and 269 lb-ft. A properly equipped Ram 1500 can tow up to an impressive 11,580 lbs. The Ram 1500 offers a premium feel and is packed with innovative features, including a classy interior. From basic work trucks to the luxurious Tungsten and off-road-ready RHO trims, there’s a Ram 1500 for nearly every pickup buyer.
2025 Ford F-150
BuzzScore: 8.1/10 Base MSRP: $38,710 Engine: 2.7L V6 Turbo | 5.0L V8 | 3.5L V6 Turbo | 3.5L V6 Turbo Hybrid Horsepower: 325 hp (2.7L) | 400 hp (V8 and 3.5L V6) | 430 hp (3.5L V6 Hybrid)
The Ford F-150 has been a mainstay of the American automotive market. With a wide range of engine choices, including a 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 generating 400 hp, a 3.5-liter PowerBoost V6 hybrid producing 430 hp, and a 325-hp EcoBoost V6, the F-150 offers something for every owner. When properly equipped, the Ford F-150 can tow up to 13,500 lbs, outperforming the Ram. The F-150’s broad lineup and diverse capabilities have made it a favorite for many years.
2025 Toyota Tundra
BuzzScore: 8.1/10 Base MSRP: $40,090 Engine: 3.4L Twin-Turbo V6 | 3.4L Twin-Turbo V6 Hybrid Horsepower: 358-389 hp (V6) | 437 hp combined (V6 hybrid)
The Toyota Tundra is another top contender in the 6-cylinder truck segment. This truck has also moved away from V8 options, but it doesn’t sacrifice capability. The base SR trim features a 3.4-liter twin-turbo V6 that makes 358 hp and 406 lb-ft of torque, with other trims getting an engine rated at 389 hp and 479 lb-ft. The hybrid version of the Tundra produces 437 hp and 583 lb-ft of torque. Compared to competitors, the Tundra presents a competitive pickup truck option.
2025 Nissan Frontier
BuzzScore: 7.8/10 Base Trim Engine: 3.8L V6 Gas Base Trim Horsepower: 310-hp Base MSRP: $32,050
The Nissan Frontier offers a lot of truck for the money. Powering every configuration is a 3.8-liter V6 engine producing 310 horsepower and 281 lb-ft of torque. Depending on the configuration, the Frontier can tow up to 7,160 pounds. The Frontier’s engine provides a smooth driving experience and delivers plenty of passing power.
Other 6-Cylinder Pickup Trucks
The following six-cylinder pickup trucks will be added to our list once their 2025 BuzzScores become available:
- 2025 Honda Ridgeline
- 2025 Ford F-150 Raptor
- 2025 Ford Ranger Raptor
- 2025 Ram 2500
- 2025 Ram 3500
- 2025 Jeep Gladiator
Characteristics Of The Best 6-Cylinder Pickup Trucks
- They are usually mid-size or larger
- They have impressive horsepower and torque figures
- They can tow heavy loads without a struggle
What to Consider When Buying 6-Cylinder Pickup Trucks
Pros
- Better fuel efficiency than eight-cylinder options
- Potent outputs with loads of torque
- Good towing capacity and payload figures
- Six-cylinder diesel options are strong and frugal
- More refined than four-cylinder options
Cons
- Thirstier than four-cylinder or hybrid versions
- More expensive to buy off the bat
- Maintenance costs can be a little higher due to added complexity
What are the cheapest 6-cylinder pickup trucks available in the US?
At $32,050, the base Nissan Frontier is the cheapest six-cylinder pickup truck you can buy for the 2025 model year.
Are trucks with V6 engines reliable?
One of the benefits of the V6 setup is that these engines tend to be durable and hardy, so expectations for their reliability are high. V6-powered trucks benefit from the same new car warranty that other engines do, and manufacturers catering to the heavy-duty truck segment want their products to be able to go forever, thus prioritizing reliability. All that being said, turbocharged or hybridized six-cylinder engines come with added complexity that could affect long-term maintenance and reliability.
