Best Half-Ton Trucks | 2025 1/2 Ton Pickups Rated | CarBuzz
The half-ton truck gets its name not from its weight but from its payload capacity. These versatile vehicles are the middle ground between heavy-duty trucks and small pickups, offering better fuel economy than their bigger counterparts but a little more muscle than the more compact trucks on the market. The best ½-ton trucks are competent when it comes to towing, offer various body styles, come flush with on-board tech, and recently, can even be hybridized for a smaller carbon footprint. For those who don’t require the full-fat heavy-duty workhorse but still want something practical and versatile with some towing muscles, half-ton pickups make an ideal purchase. Here is our list of the best half-ton pickup trucks for 2025.
Vehicles are assigned a BuzzScore in relation to their direct segment competitors, and as such, vehicles in this list, while similarly scored, do not necessarily compete directly against one another. Find out more about how the BuzzScore ratings work here. These lists are continuously updated with the latest BuzzScores and vehicles as they become available.
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2025 Ram 1500
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2025 Toyota Tundra
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2025 Toyota Tundra Hybrid
Characteristics Of The Best Half-Ton Pickup Trucks
What traits are needed for a hauler such as this to make it onto our list of the best-rated half-ton trucks? Here are some defining characteristics that set the ½-ton truck apart:
- Power - While they aren’t the powerhouses that one-tonners are, they still need to produce enough power for those who want to get some work done. With this in mind, various engine choices are usually on offer, from turbocharged inline-four engines to high-torque diesel mills. Some manufacturers also offer new models with a hybrid powertrain setup. Some of the most powerful half-ton trucks come with V8s under the hood.
- Capability - With a rugged aesthetic, good ground clearance, and some even boasting trims uniquely focused on going off-road, half-tonners can take the road less traveled. This makes it supremely versatile for those who spend loads of time in the outdoors.
- Fuel efficiency - In the quest for high hauling figures, the half-ton truck with the best towing capacity may need to make a few more stops at the pumps. But, with the addition of hybrid technology to the segment, you can expect lower mpg figures than the more powerful V8 motors offer. Diesel power plants tend to offer slightly better fuel consumption, too.
- Interiors - Trucks of this size typically have large, spacious interiors, although high ride heights can make access trickier for shorter or older occupants. Many half-ton pickups have ultra-luxurious trim levels packed with the latest technologies.
- Price - Ranging from reasonable to expensive, most half-ton trucks start with a workhorse base model that covers just the basics without breaking the bank. Higher up in the range, you’ll find the luxury models that feature leather upholstery, lots of tech, and a boatload of driving assist features - however, they don’t come cheap.
What To Consider Before Buying A ½-ton Truck
Pickup trucks are very popular in the USA, but before signing on the dotted line, there are a few pros and cons to consider:
Pros
- A range of available engine options
- Good towing numbers
- Luxurious interiors on apex grades
- A host of different body and bed types
- High-riding nature is great for visibility and mild off-roading
- Reliable and durable
- Loads of driver assists on top models to keep you safe
Cons
- Stiffer ride quality
- Higher fuel economy on powerful engines
- Entry-level trims can be barebones
- Top-end trims can be costly
Which half-tonner can carry the most weight?
When it comes to deciding which pickup is right for you, you may want to look at the towing and hauling numbers.
What is the best half-ton truck for towing?
With brands like Ford, GMC, Ram, and Chevrolet vying for top honors in the segment, you’ll likely always see competition for the highest tow rating among these competitors.
What half-ton truck has the best fuel economy?
RWD versions of the diesel GMC Sierra and Chevy Silverado can manage 26 mpg, making them much more economical than the average half-ton pickup.
