With the winners of the 2025 MotorTrend Car and SUV of the Year now announced, it’s time to shine a spotlight on our choice for Truck of the Year.

This year’s Truck of the Year competitors feature an impressive variety, showcasing models from Chevrolet, Ford, GMC, Toyota, Tesla, Ram, Rivian, and even Mercedes-Benz, each utilizing different powertrain options. Notably, the Tesla Cybertruck made waves as one of the most talked-about trucks in recent history. Additionally, several electric truck models from established brands and newer players like Rivian joined the competition.

Our Of The Year awards operate differently than traditional comparison tests that pit multiple vehicles against one another in specific scenarios. Instead, each vehicle in our OTY evaluations is assessed against six essential criteria to compete for the prestigious Golden Calipers. Keep reading for the complete list of contenders vying for the 2025 MotorTrend Truck of the Year title, listed alphabetically.

2025 Chevrolet Silverado EV

The new Chevrolet Silverado EV RST makes a strong impression with its outstanding specifications — delivering a remarkable 440 miles of range powered by a substantial 205-kWh battery, ultra-fast DC charging, and dual motors providing 754 horsepower and 785 lb-ft of torque, all riding on 24-inch wheels. Unlike the Ford F-150 Lightning, this truck isn’t just an electrified version of the Silverado; it is a fully electric vehicle designed from the ground up using GM’s Ultium battery technology. Additional features include four-wheel steering, a four-corner air suspension, and a versatile midgate that calls to mind the classic Avalanche.

2024 Ford Ranger

The brand-new 2024 Ford Ranger has already established itself amongst the 2025 MotorTrend Truck of the Year contenders, with its XLT variant defeating the 2024 TOTY winner, the Chevrolet Colorado, alongside another nominee, the Toyota Tacoma, in a comparison test. Unfortunately, due to the 2023 UAW strike, the Ranger missed last year’s contest, which is why we believe this stylish midsize truck deserves another chance at the title.

2024 GMC Sierra EV

In 2022, the stunning GMC Hummer EV made an unforgettable impression, almost clinching the Truck of the Year title with its dramatic presence. Now, GMC is back with a strong contender: the 2024 GMC Sierra EV Denali Edition 1. For the complete review of the 2024 GMC Sierra,

2025 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter

When discussing Truck of the Year, most people think of traditional trucks. However, full-size vans provide similar utility and even more features. This year, our contenders include the 2024 Mercedes-Benz eSprinter 2500 cargo van, which presents a strong electric option for businesses wanting a greener fleet, alongside the updated diesel-powered 2025 Sprinter 2500.

While there are more thrilling candidates in the race for the Golden Calipers, such as the off-road ready 2025 Ram 1500 RHO and the futuristic 2024 Tesla Cybertruck, two German vans might appear mundane and ready to stay on the sidelines. Nevertheless, after testing them in hauling and off-road scenarios with the team, it’s evident that the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter is more than just a vehicle for regular work hours or the “#vanlife” YouTubers. For instance, the AWD diesel variant displayed surprisingly sharp and responsive steering, and even with its lengthy 170-inch wheelbase, the eSprinter felt impressively agile.

2025 Ram 1500

The Ram 1500 pickup has won MotorTrend’s Truck of the Year award twice and is back with a varied lineup of models, a new turbocharged straight-six engine, and advanced tech features.

There are currently 10 models of the Ram 1500 available, with a staggering $47,000 price gap between the most and least expensive variants. Among these, the Ram 1500 Warlock, RHO, and Tungsten are competing for this year’s Golden Calipers. Out of these options, four are available with two-wheel drive, while six are exclusively 4×4 models, and the Ram 2500 Tradesman HFE is rear-wheel drive only, equipped with a 6-foot, 4-inch box and a 3.6-liter V-6 engine.

2025 Rivian R1T

We were captivated by the Rivian R1T back in 2022, navigating the TransAmerica trail in a pair of pre-production models outfitted for overlanding. Shortly after, it received our Truck of the Year honors. Now, three years later, Rivian is introducing its second-generation R1T, featuring three all-new powertrains designed by Rivian, a markedly improved suspension system, and an innovative zonal electric architecture that minimizes weight, cabling, and response times for all onboard systems.

2024 Tesla Cybertruck

While some may regard the Tesla Cybertruck as outlandish performance art, others appreciate its bold commitment to Tesla’s striking stealth-bomber-refrigerator design and technology-driven identity. But can a vehicle so daringly designed succeed within our Truck of the Year standards? Surprisingly, yes.

Its advancements in design are extraordinary. Whether you love it or loathe it, the Cybertruck stands out from any other pickup truck available currently.

2024 Toyota Tacoma

It’s been twenty years since the Toyota Tacoma transformed from a compact pickup into what we now recognize as a midsize truck. This change took place in 2005, leading to several accolades, including our prestigious Truck of the Year Golden Calipers. Now, entering its fourth generation with its first total redesign since 2005, the 2024 Toyota Tacoma has another chance at the title.