The United States is one of the largest markets for pickup trucks globally, with several major automakers competing fiercely in this profitable segment. To determine the best-selling truck brands in America, sales data from reputable industry sources such as MotorIntelligence and GoodCarBadCar were analyzed, based on new vehicle retail sales for the most recent full calendar year.
Ford has long dominated the U.S. truck market with its F-Series lineup, particularly the Ford F-150, which has been America’s best-selling vehicle (not just truck) for over four decades. In the most recent year, Ford sold nearly 800,000 F-Series trucks, giving it a commanding lead in the segment. Key factors in Ford’s success include a wide range of configurations and trims to suit diverse needs, a reputation for rugged dependability, advanced technology features and premium options on higher trims, and a loyal customer base and strong fleet sales.
Chevrolet’s Silverado is the second best-selling truck line in America, with combined sales of the light-duty Silverado 1500 and heavy-duty 2500/3500 models totaling around 575,000 units last year, securing Chevrolet’s position as a strong challenger to Ford. Chevrolet’s truck success can be attributed to competitive pricing and frequent incentives, a focus on core truck capabilities like towing and payload, a diverse model range including affordable work trucks and luxurious High Country trim, and appealing designs and brand heritage.
Ram, formerly a Dodge sub-brand but now a standalone marque under Stellantis, produces the third best-selling truck in the U.S. The Ram 1500 and its heavy-duty 2500/3500 counterparts recorded around 560,000 total sales last year, narrowly trailing Chevrolet. Ram has gained market share in recent years due to a well-received redesign of the 1500 model with upscale interiors, innovative features like air suspension and 12-inch touchscreen, an emphasis on ride comfort and refinement, and expanding light-duty diesel engine availability.
GMC’s Sierra lineup, which shares platforms with the mechanically similar Chevrolet Silverado, is the fourth best-selling truck nameplate in America with around 250,000 units sold last year. GMC differentiates itself as a premium truck brand, with success factors including upscale positioning with luxurious Denali and AT4 sub-brands, styling differentiation from Chevrolet twins, strong customer loyalty and referral rates, and professional-grade marketing aligning with skilled trades and entrepreneurs.
Toyota’s Tacoma midsize pickup and full-size Tundra round out the top five truck brands. The Tacoma is America’s best-selling midsize truck and recorded over 250,000 sales last year, while the Tundra added around 125,000 units. Toyota’s truck appeal lies in renowned build quality and long-term reliability, excellent resale value and low total cost of ownership, capable TRD Off-Road and rugged TRD Pro models, and safety features like standard automatic emergency braking.
In conclusion, Ford, Chevrolet, Ram, GMC, and Toyota are the sales leaders in America’s highly competitive truck market. Each brand succeeds by offering a distinct combination of capabilities, styles, and trims to meet the diverse needs of truck buyers. Factors like reliability, resale value, and brand loyalty also play crucial roles. As truck sales continue to drive profits for these automakers, they will keep innovating to defend or gain market share in this critical segment.
