Pickup Trucks Evolve: A Look at 2025’s Top Models

The pickup truck has transformed significantly over the years, evolving from a tool primarily for blue-collar workers to a versatile vehicle favored by diverse drivers. In 2025, pickups serve roles beyond traditional work, appealing to families, outdoor enthusiasts, and urban dwellers alike. This article explores several noteworthy models that illustrate this evolution.

Ford’s Dominance and Innovation

Ford has long been synonymous with pickup trucks, having established its legacy over a century ago with the Model T. Today, the Ford F-150 continues to be Canada’s best-selling vehicle, maintaining this title for the past 15 years. In recent years, Ford introduced the Maverick, a four-door compact truck that has captured attention for its practicality and efficiency. Launched in 2022, the Maverick offers a choice of turbo or hybrid engines, with the hybrid variant, featuring a 2.5-litre engine, outselling its turbo counterpart despite being $2,000 pricier.

The appeal of the Maverick lies not only in its fuel economy—averaging 6.2 L/100 km—but also in its user-friendly design. With room for five passengers and car-like handling, it combines utility with comfort, making it an attractive option for a wide range of consumers. The base price starts at $35,114.

Hyundai and Ram’s Competitive Entries

Hyundai made its entry into the North American pickup market with the Santa Cruz, which debuted three years ago. This compact model stands out with its unconventional styling, resembling a surf wagon more than a traditional work vehicle. The 2025 Santa Cruz features a new exterior design and is powered by a 2.5-litre turbo engine that delivers 281 horsepower and 311 lbs.-ft of torque. With a focus on outdoor adventure rather than heavy-duty tasks, the Santa Cruz is ideal for those seeking a stylish yet functional vehicle.

For 2025, Hyundai has updated the Santa Cruz with modern technology, including a curved panoramic screen with two 12.3-inch displays and enhanced safety features. The fuel economy stands at 10.7 L/100 km, with a base price of $44,794.

The Ram 1500 remains a key player in the pickup segment, offering a wide range of options with over a dozen different models. Prices range from $56,462 for the base Tradesman to $110,399 for the top-tier RHO. Known for its durability and advanced technology, the Ram 1500 includes features such as an active-level four-corner air suspension and an electronic full-time 4WD transfer case.

Luxury is also a focus for Ram, with high-end trims featuring premium leather seating, a stunning 14.4-inch infotainment touchscreen, and a dual-pane panoramic sunroof. The fuel economy for the Ram 1500 is rated at 11.2 L/100 km.

Chevrolet’s Electric Future

The rise of electric vehicles has not left the pickup segment untouched. The Chevrolet Silverado EV represents a significant advancement in this area, offering an impressive full-charge range of up to 720 km. This vehicle maintains a conventional pickup appearance, distinguishing itself only through its EV badging and a unique front trunk capable of accommodating three suitcases.

Chevrolet offers a variety of models within the Silverado EV lineup, starting with the Work Truck Standard at $67,633 and going up to the RST Max Range at $121,333. With a fuel economy rating of 0.5 L/100 km, it reflects a growing trend toward sustainability in the automotive industry.

The pickup truck market in 2025 is characterized by diversity and innovation, appealing to a broad spectrum of consumers. As these vehicles continue to evolve, they remain essential for both personal and professional use, proving that their utility and versatility transcend traditional boundaries.

Andrew McCredie, Driving Editor at The Vancouver Sun and The Province, provides insights into these developments and the impacts they have on consumers today.