While 2011 brings no new entries or full redesigns among large pickups, some models have significantly revised powertrains or newly added features. Although all the domestic makes offer ¾- and one-ton versions of their large pickups, we’ll be concentrating on the light-duty "half-ton" models here.

Changes For 2011

Government-mandated fuel-economy improvements are beginning to have an effect on powertrain offerings. While the light-duty diesel engines rumored a few years back have yet to materialize, some trucks have recently shown improved EPA figures due to new or revised engines or transmissions with more speeds. Also, every truck now offers at least one “flex fuel” engine capable of running on E85 ethanol-blended fuel, though in the case of the Nissan Titan, it’s available only in certain states. Continuing with the best fuel economy figures in the class are hybrid versions of the Chevrolet Silverado and similar GMC Sierra.

Although the change occurred last year, it bears noting that large Dodge pickups are now badged as Rams. The Dodge name is reserved strictly for cars, SUVs, minivans, and the compact Dakota pickup, while the Ram moniker is applied to the manufacturer’s large pickups and yet-to-be-introduced commercial vans.

Payload and Towing

Payload capacity on the half-ton models covered here generally starts at about 1,300 pounds, but in most cases can be increased significantly with optional heavy-duty suspensions. Standard towing capacity ranges from about 4,500 pounds to 8,700 pounds, but most models offer optional trailer-towing packages that increase that to about 10,000 pounds or more. Be warned that raising the payload rating generally requires stiffer rear springs that tend to result in a rougher ride and more lateral skipping in bumpy corners, traits that are already a problem in lightly loaded pickups.

Drive Wheels

All pickups are available in rear- or 4-wheel drive, but not all these systems are created equal. Rear-drive versions benefit from traction control, which limits tire slip when accelerating on slippery surfaces; it's now standard on all large pickups. The standard 4WD setup offered on all is a “part-time” 4-wheel-drive system that should be switched off on dry pavement to avoid driveline binding and excessive wear. But GM's “full-time” Autotrac 4WD--available on the Chevy Avalanche/Silverado and the GMC Sierra--can be left engaged on dry pavement, as can Ram's available all-wheel-drive system offered on the top Laramie trim level.

Ford also offers an all-wheel-drive system, but only on the Harley-Davidson model. Nissan and Toyota offer only part-time 4WD. Note that GM’s Autotrac 4WD is available on Chevy Silverado and GMC Sierra models starting at about $30,000. The Chevy Avalanche with Autotrac starts at about $40,000, as does the Ram 1500 Laramie. The Ford F-150 Harley-Davidson tops $50,000.