Top 10 Full-Size Pickup Trucks 2019 — Best Overall + Best Value

1. Ram 1500 (Fifth Generation)

The all-new Ram 1500 earned Best Overall by leading in nearly every category that mattered. Its 5.7-liter Hemi V8 made 395 horsepower and 410 pound-feet of torque, and the available eTorque mild-hybrid system smoothed stop-start while nudging fuel economy toward an EPA-rated 17/22 mpg in many 4WD builds. Properly equipped, it towed up to 12,750 pounds and carried up to 2,300 pounds of payload.

This is the truck for the buyer who wanted the most well-rounded half-ton of the year, winning both Motor Trend and North American Truck of the Year. It trades away nothing significant, though top trims climbed past $54,000 quickly. Compared to the Ford F-150 below it, the Ram offers a far more refined cabin and ride but slightly less maximum towing capacity.

2. Ford F-150 (3.5 EcoBoost)

The F-150 remained the capability king of 2019, ranking second for its class-leading towing and payload. With the 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 making around 375 horsepower and 470 pound-feet of torque and a 10-speed automatic, a properly configured F-150 led the segment with up to 13,200 pounds of towing and an enormous 3,230 pounds of max payload. Its aluminum body kept weight down, and EPA ratings reached 18/25 mpg with the EcoBoost.

This is the truck for the towing-and-payload maximizer who prioritizes numbers on a hitch and a scale above all else. It trades away interior refinement, which felt a step behind the redesigned Ram's cabin. Compared to the Ram 1500 above it, the F-150 offers superior capability but a less plush ride and dated interior design.

3. Chevrolet Silverado 1500 (Redesigned)

Fully redesigned for 2019, the Silverado leaned into capability, earning third place for its V8 grunt and payload value. The familiar 5.3-liter V8 made 355 horsepower and 383 pound-feet, while the optional 6.2-liter V8 delivered 420 horsepower and 460 pound-feet with a 10-speed automatic. Max towing reached 12,200 pounds and payload topped out near a class-leading 2,543 pounds.

This is the truck for the buyer who wanted V8 power and big payload value without paying a luxury premium. It trades away interior quality, as reviewers dinged the plasticky cabin versus the Ram, and the ride was firmer. Compared to the Ford F-150 above it, the Silverado offers a more traditional V8 experience but less maximum towing capacity.

4. GMC Sierra 1500 Denali (CarbonPro)

The Sierra shared the Silverado's redesign but aimed upmarket, and the Denali trim was its statement, ranking fourth for its luxury-leaning tech showcase. The 6.2-liter V8 produced 420 horsepower and 460 pound-feet through a 10-speed automatic, good for 12,100 pounds of towing, with a 0-60 around 5.7 seconds. Denali introduced the segment-first MultiPro tailgate and the optional CarbonPro carbon-fiber bed that shaved about 62 pounds.

This is the truck for the luxury-leaning buyer who wanted a tech showcase and didn't mind paying for it. It trades away interior material quality, which fell short of its luxury price point. Compared to the Chevrolet Silverado above it, the Sierra Denali offers more exclusive features like the MultiPro tailgate but at a significantly higher cost.

5. Ram 1500 Classic

Ram sold the prior-generation truck alongside the new one as the 1500 Classic, and it was the smartest value play of 2019, ranking fifth overall. The base 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 made 305 horsepower and 269 pound-feet, while the optional 5.7-liter Hemi V8 brought 395 horsepower, 410 pound-feet, and up to 11,610 pounds of towing. Starting near $28,200, it undercut the redesigned models by thousands of dollars.

This is the truck for the work buyer who wanted Hemi capability for the least money, making it the 2019 Best Value pick. It trades away the new 1500's refined coil-spring ride and modern interior, but offers a cheaper path into a capable V8 half-ton. Compared to the GMC Sierra Denali above it, the Ram Classic is far less luxurious but delivers comparable towing for a fraction of the price.

6. Ford F-150 Lariat (3.5 EcoBoost 4WD)

Stepping up to the Lariat trim turned the F-150 into a well-equipped daily hauler without going full luxury, earning sixth place. Paired with the 3.5-liter EcoBoost and the 10-speed automatic, a 4WD Lariat still towed in the 11,000-to-13,000-pound range depending on configuration and carried over 2,000 pounds of payload. EPA ratings near 17/23 mpg were respectable for the output.

This is the truck for the buyer balancing capability with everyday comfort, offering the sweet spot of the F-150 lineup. It trades away the top-end luxury of a Platinum or Limited trim, but keeps the essential towing and payload numbers. Compared to the Ram 1500 Classic above it, the Lariat offers a more modern interior and better ride, but at a significantly higher starting price of around $41,700.

7. Toyota Tundra (5.7 i-Force V8)

By 2019 the Tundra was aging, but its reputation for durability carried it to seventh place. The 5.7-liter i-Force V8 made 381 horsepower and 401 pound-feet through a six-speed automatic, towing up to 10,200 pounds with payload up to 1,730 pounds. EPA ratings were thirsty at roughly 13/17 mpg, but what you gained was legendary mechanical longevity. This is exactly why used Tundras command stubbornly high prices today.

This is the truck for the buyer who prized long-term reliability over modern specs, making it the durability pick of the segment. It trades away fuel economy, a dated six-speed transmission, and the lowest tow and payload figures of the V8 contenders. Compared to the Ford F-150 Lariat above it, the Tundra offers superior long-term reliability but far worse efficiency and capability.

8. Nissan Titan (5.6 Endurance V8)

The Titan made its case with one engine done well, earning eighth place as the underdog value of the segment. The standard 5.6-liter Endurance V8 produced 390 horsepower and 394 pound-feet through a seven-speed automatic, with no four- or six-cylinder to water it down. Half-ton Crew Cab towing landed around 9,400 to 9,660 pounds, with a smooth, effortless highway cruise.

This is the truck for the value buyer who wanted standard V8 power without paying for a domestic badge premium. It trades away higher towing capacity than its domestic rivals and has a thin dealer and used-market presence. Compared to the Toyota Tundra above it, the Titan offers more modern features and a smoother ride, but less proven long-term reliability. Heavy depreciation makes used examples genuinely cheap, making it an overlooked V8 bargain for budget-focused shoppers.

9. GMC Sierra 1500 Elevation (5.3 V8)

For shoppers who liked the redesigned Sierra but balked at Denali pricing, the Elevation trim offered monochromatic styling and the 5.3-liter V8, ranking ninth. The 5.3 made 355 horsepower and 383 pound-feet with the eight-speed automatic, towing roughly 11,200 pounds with sensible payload. EPA ratings near 16/22 mpg were acceptable for the output. It skipped Denali's CarbonPro and leather but kept the MultiPro tailgate availability and modern bones.

This is the truck for the buyer wanting a blacked-out look without Denali money, splitting the difference between work-truck pricing and loaded-luxury depreciation. It trades away the 6.2-liter V8's extra power and the Denali's upscale cabin, but keeps the capable 5.3 V8 and modern platform. Compared to the Nissan Titan below it, the Sierra Elevation offers better towing and a more recognizable badge, but suffers from the same interior-plastics gripe as the Silverado.

10. Ford F-150 Raptor (3.5 EcoBoost High-Output)

The Raptor was the wild card of 2019, ranking tenth as a less a work truck than a high-speed off-road weapon. Its high-output 3.5-liter EcoBoost made 450 horsepower and 510 pound-feet, paired to the 10-speed automatic, with Fox Live Valve shocks and massive suspension travel. It hit 60 mph in about six seconds flat, but the desert focus capped towing near 8,000 pounds and fuel economy at roughly 15/18 mpg.

This is the truck for the off-road enthusiast who wanted a factory desert runner, making it a purpose-built specialist rather than an all-rounder. It trades away towing capacity and fuel economy for extreme off-road capability and a thrilling driving experience. Compared to the GMC Sierra Elevation above it, the Raptor offers far more performance but is significantly more expensive and less practical for work duties.

How we ranked these

We ranked the 2019 full-size pickups by weighting towing and payload at 25%, reliability and durability at 20%, value at 15%, powertrain and efficiency at 15%, ride and interior at 15%, and used value at 10%. These weights reflect what a real buyer prioritized that year, combining period road tests from Edmunds, Car and Driver, and KBB with manufacturer specs and later resale data.

We deliberately ignored subjective brand loyalty and nostalgia, which often skew reviews. We also excluded dealer incentives and regional pricing variations because they fluctuate too much to rank fairly. Peak horsepower was downweighted because real-world towing and daily comfort depend more on transmission, axle ratio, and ride quality than on the biggest dyno number.

What to look for

When choosing between these 2019 trucks, verify the exact configuration's tow and payload ratings, since cab, bed, axle ratio, and 2WD vs. 4WD swing numbers by thousands of pounds. Check the transmission behavior—GM's 8-speed had shudder issues, and Ram's eTorque was first-year tech. Compare used prices: Titans and Sierras depreciated hard, while Tundras and Raptors hold value.

The mistake most buyers make is fixating on the highest tow rating or horsepower without considering how the truck will actually be used. A Raptor tows only 8,000 pounds, and a Tundra's thirsty V8 costs more at the pump. The Ram 1500 Classic offers the best capability per dollar, while the F-150 maximizes payload—match the truck to your real needs, not the brochure.

Related questions

What was the best full-size pickup truck of 2019?

The all-new Ram 1500 was the best overall, winning both Motor Trend and North American Truck of the Year. It combined a smooth coil-spring ride, a class-leading 12-inch touchscreen, and strong capability with up to 12,750 pounds of towing and 2,300 pounds of payload, making it the most well-rounded half-ton of the year.

Which 2019 full-size truck had the highest towing capacity?

The Ford F-150 with the 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 led the segment with a maximum towing rating of 13,200 pounds. Properly equipped with the 10-speed automatic and max tow package, it also offered a class-leading 3,230 pounds of payload, making it the top choice for heavy hauling.

What was the best value full-size pickup in 2019?

The Ram 1500 Classic was the best value, starting near $28,200 with the 5.7-liter Hemi V8. It delivered 395 horsepower and up to 11,610 pounds of towing, offering maximum capability per dollar. It was a proven, older-generation truck sold alongside the new model at a significant discount.

How did the 2019 Chevrolet Silverado compare to the Ram 1500?

The redesigned Silverado offered better payload (up to 2,543 pounds) and a strong 6.2-liter V8 with 420 horsepower, but its interior plastics and ride quality lagged the Ram. The Ram won on cabin refinement, ride comfort, and technology, making it the more balanced overall choice.

Is the 2019 Toyota Tundra a good used buy?

Yes, if you prioritize reliability and resale value. The Tundra's 5.7-liter V8 and six-speed automatic are proven and durable, and it holds value exceptionally well. However, it has the lowest towing (10,200 pounds) and worst fuel economy (13/17 mpg) among V8 rivals, so it's not the most efficient choice.

What are the pros and cons of the 2019 Nissan Titan?

The Titan's pros include a standard 390-horsepower V8, smooth highway manners, and heavy depreciation that makes used examples cheap. Cons are lower towing (about 9,660 pounds) than domestic rivals and a thin dealer network. It's an overlooked V8 bargain for used shoppers.

Why is the 2019 Ford F-150 Raptor so popular?

The Raptor offers a high-output 3.5-liter EcoBoost with 450 horsepower, Fox Live Valve shocks, and massive suspension travel for desert running. It hits 60 mph in about six seconds and holds value well due to enthusiast demand, but towing is limited to 8,000 pounds and fuel economy is poor.

What should I check when buying a used 2019 Ram 1500?

Verify the health of the eTorque 48-volt system and battery, as it was first-year technology. Also check the Hemi's service history for oil changes and spark plugs. Inspect the bed and frame for work wear, since many were used as tools. The coil-spring ride is a plus, but confirm no suspension issues.

FAQ

What was the best full-size pickup of 2019 overall?

The all-new fifth-generation Ram 1500, which won both Motor Trend Truck of the Year and North American Truck of the Year for its blend of ride quality, capability, and interior tech.

Which 2019 full-size truck towed the most?

The Ford F-150 with the 3.5 EcoBoost led the segment at up to 13,200 pounds, with the Ram 1500 close behind at 12,750 pounds.

What was the best value full-size truck in 2019?

The Ram 1500 Classic with the 5.7 Hemi — it started near $28,200 yet still towed over 11,000 pounds, making it the cheapest path into a capable V8 half-ton.

Which 2019 pickup is the most reliable used buy?

The Toyota Tundra earns the durability nod and holds resale value accordingly, though its old drivetrain and thirsty 5.7 V8 are the trade-offs.

Was the redesigned 2019 Silverado better than the old one?

Yes on capability — payload rose to about 2,543 pounds and the bed grew — but reviewers still preferred the Ram's cabin and ride.

What is the GMC Sierra Denali CarbonPro?

It's a 2019 Sierra 1500 Denali with an optional carbon-fiber bed that saves about 62 pounds. It also features the MultiPro six-way tailgate and a 420-horsepower 6.2 V8, but the interior doesn't fully justify the high price.

How much does a 2019 Ford F-150 Raptor cost used?

Used Raptors hold value well due to enthusiast demand, so prices remain high—often in the $50,000 to $60,000 range depending on condition and mileage, despite the original MSRP of $52,855.

What are common problems with 2019 GM trucks?

Some early 2019 Silverado and Sierra models with the 8-speed automatic experienced a torque converter shudder. Also, interior plastics were criticized for feeling cheap. The 6.2 V8 and 10-speed combo is generally solid.

Is the 2019 Ram 1500 eTorque worth it?

Yes, the eTorque mild-hybrid system smooths stop-start and adds low-end torque while improving fuel economy slightly (17/22 mpg). It's a first-year system, so check its health, but it's a worthwhile feature for daily driving.

What is the payload capacity of the 2019 Ford F-150?

With the 3.5 EcoBoost and proper configuration, the F-150 offers a maximum payload of 3,230 pounds, which is best-in-class. This makes it ideal for heavy loads in the bed, though the exact figure depends on cab, bed, and options.

Sources

• https://www.edmunds.com/ram/1500/2019/review/
• https://www.caranddriver.com/ram/1500/2019
• https://www.kbb.com/ram/1500/2019/
• https://www.motortrend.com/news/2019-ram-1500-motor-trend-truck-of-the-year/
• https://www.caranddriver.com/ford/f-150/2019
• https://www.edmunds.com/chevrolet/silverado-1500/2019/review/
• https://www.caranddriver.com/gmc/sierra-1500/2019
• https://www.toyota.com/tundra/2019/
• https://www.nissanusa.com/vehicles/trucks/titan.html
• https://www.cars.com/research/ford-f_150-2019/

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