The first pickup truck to be released in the U.S. was manufactured by Ford in 1917. Since then, an increasing number of pickup designs have been introduced to the consumer market each year. Today, these reliable and beloved vehicles are at their height of popularity.

Construction crews, plumbers, farmers, office workers, college students, and moms all drive these convenient, casual vehicles both on-road and off. From basic work trucks to heavy-load haulers, these appealing and practical vehicles are sturdy and versatile. Depending on their size and design, they can carry different amounts of cargo, equipment, furniture, or supplies.

They are also in demand for major grocery shopping days and transporting college kids' belongings from home to campus dorms. Many of today's hybrid and top-performing models have streamlined bodies for easy operation while still providing plenty of loading capacity. Everyone knows of the main players in the pickup truck game, but this article will look at additional exciting and popular pickup trucks. 

1 - Ford Maverick

This new streamlined pickup truck brings the name of a 1970s Ford compact car design back into the limelight. Now positioned in the lineup just beneath the medium-size Ranger, the Maverick offers the ultimate sporty style and sophistication. Sitting on a chassis that is identical with the Bronco Sport compact crossover’s chassis. This hybrid Maverick has a standard powertrain that includes a 2.5-liter, four-cylinder engine. Other components are an automatic transmission with constant variability along with front-wheel drive. This stylish small pickup design displays a four-door body with crew-cab style and a 4.5-foot bed.

2 - Honda Ridgeline

This innovative pickup truck design combines some of the top-rated qualities of medium-size trucks and crossovers. The most talked-about feature of this current pickup design is the cargo box, which offers an underfloor trunk as well as a short, wide bed. This truck’s unibody build supports total comfort while driving. Yet, this construction also curtails the vehicle’s off-road operation and maximal tow rating. This model has roomy back-seat space and offers excellent, smooth riding. Designed to include a V-6 powertrain plus standard all-wheel drive, this vehicle travels with deft precision and style. This truck’s smooth, assured handling is supported by the independent rear suspension. This pickup design is very attractive with easy handling and riding.

3 - Jeep Gladiator

This season’s slick, cool Gladiator design abandons some degrees of comfortable ride for updated sporty style and action. Yet, this pickup is much more versatile than the well-loved Wrangler SUV. The Gladiator possesses removable body panels plus the ideal design for mingling with mud, dust and dirt. However, it can haul two tons more than the Wrangler. It also includes a spacious cargo bed. Although the Wrangler provides easier off-road trail driving, yet the Gladiator supports a smoother ride due to its lengthier wheelbase. On the highway, the Gladiator demands attention to steering for steady driving. However, this Jeep’s option of a diesel engine offers greater torque (442 pound-feet) than either the Chevy Colorado or the GMC Canyon. Both have a torque of 369 pound-feet. The Jeep also has a greater combined EPA rating of 24 mpg compared to the Colorado and Canyon’s EPA rating of 22.

4 - Ram 1500 TRX

Most super-size trucks are found mainly on closed courses or in large arenas, yet this monster Ram design can be let out to travel the open roads. This revved-up model is extra wide with an ultra-charged V-8 supplying 702 horsepower. This Ram can whiz to 60 mph in just 3.7 seconds, roaring like a hungry lion in fast pursuit of its prey. This large pickup has no true rival at the moment. However, when the 700-plus-hp Raptor R hits the market, there may be some competitive moments. Yet, the Raptor will lack the Ram's ultra-luxurious interior design and adaptability to mannerly on-road travel. However, attempting to handle this Ram smoothly in heavy traffic or in busy parking lots can cause the driver more than a moment of anxiety. Yet, controlling the antics of any monster cannot be described as an easy task. This monster, however, diminishes all criticisms with its charm and elegant interior and its surprising use for sedate road trips.