Drivers often seek out trucks for their power and performance, counting on them to be reliable out of the shop.
The problem is, not all trucks on the market are smart investments for car owners. Some trucks, as rough and tough as they seem, may actually not be a financially wise decision to make, according to reviews from some buyers.
So, before you drive off the lot, consider the warnings from other buyers about these nine vehicles.
Borrow up to $50k to finally crush your debt
If you have thousands in debt and you’re barely making it paycheck to paycheck, you know how suffocating it is. Debt is always on your mind. It controls your life. And even if you make on-time payments, they’re so expensive that you have nothing left over.
A personal loan could help you get out of this situation and lift your monthly debt burden significantly. You could finally pay off all of your debt at once, get rid of the sky-high interest rates, and slash your debt load to one manageable monthly payment.
AmONE is a marketplace where you can find some of the best personal loans available. They match you with loans up to $50,000 with rates as low as 2.49%. That’s better than most credit cards. And easier than draining your bank account every month. Seeing what you qualify for doesn’t affect your credit score, and if you’re approved, you could get money the next day.
Toyota Tacoma
/images/2025/04/10/toyota-tacoma-trailhunter-adobe.jpg)
MSRP: $31,590
As a smaller truck, the Toyota Tacoma is an attractive option for buyers looking for some support but without extensive features for bigger loads.
However, some consumers complain that the 2025 model is no longer as roomy as it used to be, and prices are rising for the higher trims with standard features. If you're looking for an off-road truck, you'll get basic features here, but more extensive off-road gear and towing capacity will cost you more.
Nissan Frontier
/images/2025/04/10/nissan-frontier-pickup-truck-display-adobe.jpg)
MSRP: $32,050
The Nissan Frontier is a mid-size pickup truck with off-roading capability. It seems to be the ideal choice, especially at a lower price point.
However, the interior is disappointing for some, with limited room in the backseat, making it less useful for a family or team. Reviewers also cite its low towing capacity compared to competitors. The max towing package is up to 7,150 pounds, but it costs much more.
GMC Sierra 1500
/images/2025/01/16/gmc-sierra-adobe.jpg)
MSRP: $38,300
The lower starting point is likely an attractive option, but drivers are not always thrilled with the GMC Sierra 1500 for several reasons. While you can personalize your purchase with features you desire, and several powertrain options are offered, that drives the cost up fast, even for features that you thought were normal.
Jeep Gladiator
/images/2025/04/10/jeep-gladiator-adobe.jpg)
MSRP: $38,695
The Jeep Gladiator tries to combine the cool factor of a Jeep with the workability of a truck. However, its jittery ride and less-than-stable feel make it difficult to use for some drivers.
Reviewers also point out the poor towing management and its loud engine when speeds increase. It is a good off-road vehicle, but if you want a Jeep, stick to the more traditional form.
Toyota Tundra
/images/2025/04/10/toyota-tundra-adobe.jpg)
MSRP: $40,900
Reviewers note that the Toyota Tundra isn't a true competitor in power and performance to big trucks by manufacturers like Ram and Ford. However, it does have improved powertrains for 2025. The most common problems include middling highway fuel economy as fuel costs rise.
Additionally, drivers point out that it doesn't offer enough performance for towing or hauling, which is why many customers might usually purchase the truck in the first place.
Trending Stories
Honda Ridgeline
/images/2025/04/10/honda-ridgeline-trailsport-display-adobe.jpg)
MSRP: $41,150
The Honda Ridgeline is roomy, comfortable, and known for its reliability, but some say it lacks the true "truck features." Consumers have no choice of bed length or cab size. You also have no options if you want to upgrade the powertrain for more power.
According to some, its towing performance is not comparable to that of other mid-sized pickup trucks, coming out as a middle-of-the-road truck with a higher price tag.
Ford F-150 Hybrid
/images/2025/04/10/ford-f-250-display-adobe.jpg)
MSRP: $45,695
Ford's lineup is impressive for what it offers, and the F-150 line is arguably the best-selling truck in the country. However, consumers warn about the Ford F-150 Hybrid, which is a unique combination of the two.
The base model's price is high (and prices climb to over $75,000). However, reviewers cite that the ride quality isn't all that enjoyable, especially at that price, and lags behind that of other trucks, including Ram. It's not as spunky as other models, either.
Ram 3500 Heavy Duty
/images/2025/04/10/red-ram-3500-adobe.jpg)
MSRP: $46,570
The RAM 3500 Heavy Duty is a work truck, but most people don't need the extensive pulling and hauling features it offers. It's an option for commercial trucks, but key concerns for consumers include its low fuel efficiency and high insurance costs.
If you're looking for a heavy-duty truck to pull an RV, be ready to pay for the features you need. Competitors may offer just as much for less.
Rivian R1T
/images/2025/04/10/rivian-r1t-electric-adventure-vehicles-adobe.jpg)
MSRP: $69,900
While the Rivian R1T for 2025 is an improvement over previous years in terms of handling, if you're looking for an EV, there are other options on the market that give you better fuel efficiency and a far lower price point.
Consumers also dislike the missing key features of the infotainment system, such as Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility, and find it less user-friendly.
Earn cash back on everyday purchases with this rare account
Want to earn cash back on your everyday purchases without using a credit card? With the Discover®️ Cashback Debit Checking account (member FDIC), you can earn 1% cash back on up to $3,000 in debit card purchases each month!1 <p>See website for details.</p>
With no credit check to apply and no monthly fees to worry about, you can earn nearly passive income on purchases you’re making anyway — up to an extra $360 a year!
This rare checking account has other great perks too, like access to your paycheck up to 2 days early with Early Pay, no minimum deposit or monthly balance requirements, over 60K fee-free ATMs, and the ability to add cash to your account at Walmart stores nationwide.
Don’t leave money on the table — it only takes minutes to apply and it won’t impact your credit score.
Bottom line
/images/2025/04/10/buyer-visiting-car-dealership-adobe.jpg)
If you're looking for a new truck, you're not alone. According to Statista, light truck sales increased to 12.9 million units in 2024, which is higher than the year prior. But before buying, drivers should consider all factors and take one out for a test drive before making a decision.
And, if you want to save money on car insurance, make sure you check out the safety features, security features, and safety rating before you buy.
- You could save up to $600 with some companies
- Compare dozens of providers in under 5 minutes
- Fast, free and easy way to shop for insurance
- Quickly find the perfect rate for you
Subscribe Today
Unlock the Best Banking Deals and Bonuses
From high-yield savings accounts to cashback checking and sign-up bonuses, we bring you the best banking offers to grow your money smarter.