In the world of trucks, size matters, and when it comes to hauling heavy loads or conquering rugged terrain, full-size trucks are the kings of the road. With a wide range of available options, finding the best full-size truck that suits your needs can be daunting. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the most popular 2023 full-size trucks based on consumer rankings.

Consumer vs. expert ratings of 2023 full-size trucks

If you are looking for a full-size truck that can handle your towing and hauling needs, you might be interested in comparing the consumer scores of four popular models: the Ford F-150, Ram 1500, GMC Sierra 1500, and Toyota Tundra.

These scores are based on the ratings and reviews of Edmunds users who have driven or owned these vehicles. Here is how they rank according to the consumer scores on Edmunds:

1. 2023 Ford F-150: 4.8 out of 5 stars (based on 13 reviews)
2. 2022 GMC Sierra 1500: 4.6 out of 5 stars (based on 12 reviews)
3. 2022 RAM 1500: 4.2 out of 5 stars (based on 47 reviews)
4. 2022 Toyota Tundra: 3.6 out of 5 stars (based on 31 reviews)

These rankings are different from the expert rankings by Edmunds editors, who evaluate these trucks based on their performance, comfort, technology, utility, and value. Here is how they rank according to the expert scores on Edmunds:

1. 2023 Ford F-150: 8.5 out of 10
2. 2022 RAM 1500: 8.4 out of 10
3. 2022 Toyota Tundra: 8.0 out of 10
4. 2022 GMC Sierra 1500: 7.7 out of 10

As you can see, the consumer scores and the expert scores do not always agree on which truck is the best. Let’s explore some reasons this can happen.

Why consumer and expert rankings for full-size trucks might differ

The differences between consumer scores and expert scores for these full-size trucks can be attributed to a variety of factors. First, consumers tend to rate vehicles based on their personal experiences and preferences, which can be influenced by factors such as brand loyalty, past ownership, and individual needs and priorities.

For example, a consumer who prioritizes towing capacity might rate the Ford F-150 higher than the Toyota Tundra. In contrast, a consumer who values horsepower and torque might rank the Toyota Tundra higher than the F-150.

Meanwhile, expert scores are typically based on more objective criteria and standardized tests, such as acceleration, braking, handling, and fuel economy, as well as subjective evaluations of interior quality, ride comfort, and technology features. Experts also tend to have more experience with a wide range of vehicles and can provide a more balanced perspective on the strengths and weaknesses of each model.

Another factor that could contribute to the differences in scores is the model year of the vehicles. Consumers might rate a newer model more positively than an older one, while experts might take into account the long-term reliability and resale value of each model.

The significance of car test drives

The discrepancy between consumer scores and expert scores for full-size trucks highlights the importance of test-driving a new car for yourself before making any decisions.

While expert reviews can provide a comprehensive overview of a vehicle’s features and performance, they cannot account for personal preferences and driving experiences. The same truck may receive high scores from experts but lower scores from consumers with different priorities or expectations.

By test driving a vehicle, you can get a firsthand experience of how it feels to drive, how comfortable it is, and how well it suits your needs. This can help you make a more informed decision about which vehicle is right for you. Don’t rely solely on reviews, whether they’re from experts or other consumers; test driving is an essential part of the car-buying process.