The 12 Most Unattractive Pickup Trucks in History
Although pickup trucks are designed with practicality in mind, that doesn’t justify them being visually unappealing. Compared to sleek sports cars or classic luxury vehicles, it’s challenging to craft a stylish truck. Yet, it’s worth noting that a truck doesn’t have to be ugly. The following dozen models sadly missed that memo. From a variety of manufacturers and decades, these trucks might have unique features, but they all have one characteristic in common: they rank among the ugliest trucks ever made.
1961-1965 Chevrolet Corvair Truck ‘Greenbrier’
The Corvair 95 series was based on the Chevrolet Corvair compact car, available in several forms, including the cargo-focused Corvan, the Greenbrier passenger wagon, and simply the Truck. Regardless of the variations, they all shared a peculiar nose that seemed to cry out for cosmetic surgery. Moreover, with a rear-mounted, air-cooled flat-six engine, the bed height was impractically elevated. On the brighter side, the Corvair Truck featured a “rampside” version that allowed the bed walls to fold down to ground level, enhancing ease of loading items like motorcycles.
- Built From: 1961–1965
- Unique Feature: Air-cooled flat-six engine at the rear
- Shortcomings: Awkward nose design, high bed floor
- Current Value: $10,000–$30,000
International Harvester Travelall Wagonmaster
Though not among the best-known pickup brands, International Harvester was known for its innovative ideas. The Travelette pickup was one notable success, being the first crew-cab truck with a full-sized bed. However, the Wagonmaster, a modified version of the Travelall SUV, failed to impress. Its roofline appeared poorly cut, and with its short, integrated bed, it was not particularly functional.
- Built From: 1973–1974
- Unique Feature: One-piece body design
- Shortcomings: Unappealing body design
- Current Value: $15,000–$40,000
Dodge Rampage/Plymouth Scamp
Produced between 1982 and 1984, the Dodge Rampage and Plymouth Scamp represented Chrysler Corporation’s response to the Chevrolet El Camino. Unlike this larger competitor, both models were built upon the compact platform shared with the Dodge Omni and Plymouth Horizon. The Rampage and Scamp could handle a payload of 1,145 pounds, but the lackluster 84 hp from their 2.2-liter four-cylinder engine diminished any performance expectations, matching the unappealing design.
- Built From: 1982–1984
- Unique Feature: Compact efficiency with half-ton capacity
- Shortcomings: Odd styling, underwhelming engine
- Current Value: $3,000–$6,000
Lincoln Blackwood
After the success of the Lincoln Navigator, Ford’s luxury division hoped to capitalize on that momentum with the Blackwood, based on the F-150. However, it didn’t enjoy the same success. Although a crew cab design seemed promising, the Blackwood was only available with rear-wheel drive, and its small, carpeted cargo area – concealed by Dutch doors and a power-operated cover – resembled a sedan trunk more than a truck bed. The overall proportions and faux wood paneling added to its awkward appearance.
Lincoln managed to sell around 3,400 units, a mere fraction of Navigator sales. Its unattractiveness led to many remaining unsold in dealer lots long after production ceased in 2002, though it has gathered a niche following today.
- Built: 2002
- Unique Feature: Luxurious interior with wood-like accents
- Shortcomings: Small carpeted cargo area, unusual console design
- Current Value: $3,000–$6,000
Chevrolet Avalanche
Chevrolet sought to recreate the chopped-SUV style seen in the International Wagonmaster with the Avalanche, introduced in 2002 and sharing a chassis with the Suburban. The Avalanche featured a midgate that allowed extension of the bed area into the passenger compartment. However, this model was plagued by styling issues reminiscent of the unattractive Aztek, characterized by bulky plastic accents and a face that seemed overly aggressive in design. Thankfully, the second generation in 2007 considerably improved its appearance.
- Built From: 2002–2006
- Unique Feature: Midgate design expanding cargo space
- Shortcomings: An unattractive overall look
- Current Value: $8,000–$20,000
Chevrolet SSR
The Chevrolet SSR, which stands for Super Sport Roadster, marked Chevrolet’s first foray into the retro design trend of the early 2000s. Drawing inspiration from the 1947 Chevy Advance Design pickup, the SSR aimed to be a sportier choice rather than a traditional work truck, featuring a power-operated hard top to transform it into a convertible.
Unfortunately, unlike the low and aggressive hot rod pickups of the 1950s and 60s, the SSR’s higher stance and bulky body made it appear awkward. Coupled with a lackluster base engine, it struggled to find success in the market. However, Chevrolet did offer an upgrade to a 6.0-liter V-8 with a six-speed manual option that gave it a boost in performance.
- Built From: 2003–2006
- Unique Feature: Hot rod styling with retractable hardtop
- Shortcomings: Heavy build, expensive, lacking sportiness
- Current Value: $20,000–$35,000
Subaru Baja
In a bid to capture the pickup market in the 2000s, Subaru introduced the Baja, which shared a platform with the second-generation Outback. However, the pickup variation proved less versatile than the wagon. With a cargo bed measuring less than 3.5 feet, the Baja fell short in practicality, even with rear seats that could fold down.
Aesthetically, it was far from pleasing, boasting an extended rear overhang that resembled a platypus. Despite its unconventional look, it garnered some collectors’ interest, particularly since it was available with an optional turbocharged flat-four engine found in the WRX STI. Nonetheless, it remains one of the least attractive and practical pickups ever produced.
- Built From: 2003–2006
- Unique Feature: Optional turbocharged engine
- Shortcomings: Odd design, small bed
- Current Value: $6,000–$20,000
Nissan Titan
The initial effort at creating a full-sized pickup truck had several impressive features. The Titan was equipped with a robust V-8 engine generating 317 horsepower, offered optional secure storage compartments along the sides of the bed, and the crew cab version boasted a roomy interior with a roll-down rear window, creating an airy atmosphere within the truck. Its striking design made a bold statement for its time—featuring a sloping hood, angular headlights, and a sweeping roof that distinctly contrasted with traditional truck aesthetics. The first-generation Titan is undeniably an interesting truck, though its appearance might not appeal to everyone.
- Years Built: 2004–2015
- Why It’s Cool: Standard V-8, unique storage options
- Why It’s Not: Unconventional styling
- Value Today: $8,000–$20,000
Honda Ridgeline
Honda is renowned for its innovative engineering, and the first-generation Ridgeline is packed with such ideas. As Honda’s first truck in the U.S., it included a locking, waterproof trunk built into the bed and a tailgate that could either flip down or swing open for easier loading. Built on the Pilot SUV platform, the Ridgeline also provided a roomy interior for five passengers. However, its somewhat boxy front end and the pronounced buttress-shaped bedsides gave it a resemblance to the Chevy Avalanche, which may not have been the best design to imitate.
- Years Built: 2006–2014
- Why It’s Cool: Waterproof in-bed storage, versatile tailgate
- Why It’s Not: Uninspired styling
- Value Today: $6,000–$13,000
Chevrolet Silverado HD
Today’s vehicles are larger than ever, making a significant impact in the full-size truck segment. The current Chevrolet Silverado HD is one of the most prominent examples, featuring a flat, bulky front that’s imposing on the road compared to most cars. While Chevy made some cosmetic improvements for the 2024 model, the 2020–2023 iterations not only obstruct your view but also carry an unappealing aesthetic. The trapezoidal grille and segmented headlights evoke an insect-like appearance, and the oddly shaped mirrors resemble an outdated Microsoft screensaver.
- Years Built: 2020–2023
- Why It’s Cool: Powerful Duramax diesel
- Why It’s Not: Bulky and unattractive design
- Value Today: $30,000–$60,000
Jeep Gladiator Sport
Not every Jeep Gladiator is made the same. While the Mojave and Rubicon variants showcase rugged styling geared toward off-road performance, the base Sport model presents a silhouette that’s long, low, and flat—reminiscent of an aircraft carrier. The basic Wrangler suspension isn’t particularly flattering for the extended Gladiator, so unless you truly need the impressive 7,700-pound towing capacity offered with the Sport S model, it might be better to opt for a taller version—if for nothing else but aesthetics.
- Years Built: 2020–present
- Why It’s Cool: Excellent off-road capabilities, removable roof and doors
- Why It’s Not: Aesthetically unappealing design
- Value Today: $25,000–$35,000
Tesla Cybertruck
The unconventional Tesla Cybertruck stands out on the road with its unique design, earning some credit for injecting creativity into traffic. However, it doesn’t outperform more traditional competitors like the Chevrolet Silverado EV and Ford F-150 Lightning. With its stainless-steel exterior that collects fingerprints easily and sharp angles that can cause injury, the Cybertruck seems to prioritize novelty over functionality, making it less appealing.
- Years Built: 2024–present
- Why It’s Cool: Groundbreaking design
- Why It’s Not: Design that can cause injuries
- Value Today: $60,000–$100,000