Full story here: T2810017_A horse was trapped between two rocks

The Most Dependable Pickup Trucks of 2026: Ram and Toyota Lead the Pack General Motors trucks have slipped from their dominant position in the large and midsize truck segments. By Billy Rehbock, Manufacturer Photographer, MotorTrend Staff, Ryan Lugo, Illustration March 24, 2026 Most truck buyers prioritize towing and hauling capability, but longevity is just as important. To help shoppers make informed decisions, we’ve analyzed J.D. Power’s 2026 U.S. Vehicle Dependability Study, which surveys original owners about their ownership experiences. For 2026, J.D. Power evaluated 2023 model year vehicles after three years of ownership. Key concerns reported by truck owners this year include software updates, phone integration, and electric powertrains. Based on these findings, here are the most reliable trucks according to J.D. Power’s expert analysis. 2023 Ram 1500 Big Horn 2023 Ram 1500 The 2023 Ram 1500 ranks as the top full-size pickup in J.D. Power’s 2026 U.S. Vehicle Dependability Study. The current-generation Ram 1500 debuted for the 2019 model year and received a refresh in 2025. Our team at MotorTrend has consistently praised the Ram, naming it our Truck of the Year for the 2019, 2021, and 2025 model years. Pros: The Ram 1500 offers a diverse powertrain lineup and delivers an exceptional ride and handling experience. Base models are well-suited for job sites, while higher trims transform into luxurious vehicles packed with technology. The Ram TRX, with its supercharged V8 and off-road prowess, remains a standout option. Adding to its appeal, the Ram 1500 also demonstrates strong reliability. Cons: The Ram 1500’s fuel economy suffers unless equipped with the diesel engine. Towing and payload capacities aren’t class-leading. Moreover, the price tag can escalate quickly when adding optional features. Key Specs: Approximate Price: Starting around $22,000 Safety Rating: 2022 Top Safety Pick (IIHS), 4-5 stars overall (NHTSA) Engines: 3.6L eTorque mild-hybrid V6, 3.0L turbodiesel V6, 5.7L V8 (optional eTorque), 6.2L supercharged V8 (TRX) Fuel Economy: 10-21 mpg city / 14-29 mpg highway Read Our Expert Review of the 2023 Ram 1500 2023 Toyota Tacoma 2023 Toyota Tacoma Renowned for its durability and rugged character, the previous-generation Toyota Tacoma stands out as the most reliable midsize truck in J.D. Power’s 2026 U.S. Vehicle Dependability Study. While the latest model arrived for 2024, the previous iteration was produced from 2016 to 2023. This means the 2023 model represents the last chance to own what may be an all-time great in terms of reliability. Pros: The Toyota Tacoma offers excellent value in the midsize segment. Its timeless styling, wide range of configurations, and robust suite of driver-assistance technologies make it a compelling choice. TRD models deliver impressive off-road capability and aggressive aesthetics. Cons: The Tacoma lacks refinement, sometimes feeling almost agricultural. Except for the TRD Pro with Fox shocks, the ride quality is rough. The automatic transmission felt dated even when new, and the interior is cramped. Key Specs: Approximate Price: Starting around $23,000 Safety Rating: 4 stars overall (NHTSA) Engines: 2.7L I4, 3.5L V6 Fuel Economy: 17-20 mpg city / 20-23 mpg highway Read Our Full Expert Review of the 2023 Toyota Tacoma 2023 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 ZR2 AEV Bison 2023 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 In the full-size truck category, the Chevrolet Silverado 1500 trails only the Ram 1500 in J.D. Power’s 2026 U.S. Vehicle Dependability Study. Chevy updated the Silverado 1500 for 2022, and the 2023 model carried over with minimal changes, though the diesel engine received a power boost. The Silverado ZR2 features serious off-road hardware for tackling challenging terrain. Pros: Chevy’s powertrains are strong and smooth, ranging from the base four-cylinder to the potent 420-hp V8. The diesel option provides excellent torque and remarkable fuel efficiency. Spacious bed configurations and practical features make the Silverado a strong contender for daily use. The ZR2 is an excellent choice for outdoor enthusiasts. Cons: This Chevy won’t be mistaken for a luxury vehicle. Its on-road manners are less refined than its competitors, and the interior feels underwhelming and dated. The front grille design might strike some as ostentatious compared to other trucks on the market. Key Specs: Approximate Price: Starting around $23,000 Safety Rating: 5 stars overall (NHTSA) Engines: 2.7L turbo-four, 5.3L V8, 6.2L V8, 3.0L turbodiesel I6 Fuel Economy: 14-24 mpg city / 17-29 mpg highway Read Our Full Expert Review of the 2023 Chevrolet Silverado 2023 Ford F-150 Tremor 2023 Ford F-150 The Ford F-150 has been America’s best-selling vehicle for nearly five decades, yet it shares third place in J.D. Power’s 2026 U.S. Vehicle Dependability Study with the GMC Sierra 1500. The current F-150 generation debuted for 2021, with evolutionary updates for 2024 that included more base power and larger, improved displays. The all-electric F-150 Lightning was also recognized as our 2023 Truck of the Year. Pros: The full-size Ford F-150 is highly configurable and available with gasoline, hybrid, and all-electric powertrains. Regardless of the powertrain, the F-150 delivers a refined ride whether empty or loaded. The cabin is spacious and equipped with desirable features. Cons: As a sales leader, the F-150 hasn’t needed radical styling to attract buyers, but a bolder design statement would be welcome. While the F-150 offers ample space and compelling technology, the interior materials feel underwhelming. Key Specs: Approximate Price: Starting around $25,000 Safety Rating: 2022 Top Safety Pick (IIHS), 5 stars overall (NHTSA) Engines: 3.3L V6, 2.7L twin-turbo V6, 5.0L naturally aspirated V8, 3.5L twin-turbo V6, 3.5L twin-turbo V6 hybrid, 5.2L supercharged V8 Fuel Economy: 10-25 mpg city / 15-25 mpg highway, 66-40 mpg-e (F-150 Lightning) Read Our Full Expert Review of the 2023 Ford F-150 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 AT4X AEV Front Three Quarters in Action 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 Mechanically identical to the Chevrolet Silverado 1500 but distinguished by higher-end trim and materials, the GMC Sierra 1500 entered its current generation for 2019. The GMC Sierra 1500 ties the Ford F-150 in J.D. Power’s 2026 U.S. Vehicle Dependability Study, ranking behind its Chevy cousin. The GMC Sierra 1500 received a significant update for the 2022 model year. Pros: As is typical in the full-size truck segment, the GMC Sierra 1500 is available with a wide range of powertrains. As a premium truck brand, GMC offers the ultra-luxurious Denali Ultimate trim for top-tier buyers. GM’s excellent Super Cruise hands-free driving technology is available to ease highway travel. Cons: The GMC Sierra’s luxury-focused trims command premium pricing. Unlike many competitors, it is not offered with hybrid or electric powertrain options. Key Specs: Approximate Price: Starting around $30,000 Safety Rating: 2023 Top Safety Pick (IIHS), 5 stars overall (NHTSA) Engines: 2.7L turbo-four, 5.3L V8, 6.2L V8, 3.0L turbodiesel I6 Fuel Economy: 14-24 mpg city / 17-29 mpg highway Read Our Full Expert Review of the 20