Modern Pickup Trucks: Powerful and Efficient
The most popular vehicle in the U.S. so far this year is a pickup truck. In fact, four of the top six best-selling vehicles are pickups, and they’re packing a lot of power these days. Today’s pickups have smaller, more efficient engines, but they still deliver plenty of punch.
For a truck brand like Ram, having a flagship model is crucial. Previously, that hero was the wild TRX, with a supercharged Hemi V8 engine. However, for 2025, there’s a new flagship model – the Ram 1500 RHO. Powered by a turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine called Hurricane, it makes 540 horsepower. While not as brutal as the TRX, it’s nearly as off-road capable, uses less fuel, and produces fewer carbon emissions. The starting price of the Ram RHO 4×4 is just over $70,000, nearly $30,000 less than the previous TRX.
The shift to smaller engines is driven by Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) regulations. While electric and hybrid vehicles help improve these numbers, internal combustion vehicles must also comply. Interestingly, the V8 is returning to the Ram 1500 menu for 2026 after a brief hiatus, but V6 engines remain popular in full-size trucks.
For example, Ford’s EcoBoost twin-turbo V6 has been the top-selling engine in the F-150 for years. General Motors’ Duramax six-cylinder diesel engine is optional on the GMC Sierra and Chevy Silverado, producing nearly 500 pounds-feet of torque and a towing capacity of up to 13,000 pounds.
In mid-size pickups, four cylinders are now the norm. However, Ford has introduced a V6 engine option in the new Ranger. The 2.7-liter turbocharged EcoBoost V6 makes 315 horsepower and is a $2,200 upgrade. The specialty off-road Ranger Raptor comes standard with an even more powerful twin-turbo V6.
In the modern era, V6 engines have become a sweet spot for light-duty trucks, providing a balance of power and efficiency. As the automotive industry continues to evolve, it’s clear that pickup trucks remain a dominant force in the U.S. market.
