SUV or Pickup: Which Is Right for You?

On February 16, 2025 By newsroom Topic: Automotive

Choosing between an SUV and a pickup truck depends on your specific needs. Here's a detailed breakdown of key factors to help you decide.


Key Comparison Factors

1. Drivability

  • Large SUV: Handles better and more responsively due to a shorter wheelbase.
  • Best SUV:Ford Expedition Max
  • Best Truck:Ram 1500

  • Midsized SUV: Superior maneuverability, quieter cabin.

  • Best SUV:Chevrolet Traverse
  • Best Truck:Honda Ridgeline

2. Seating & Comfort

  • Large SUV: Comfortable for families with third-row seating; ideal for long trips.
  • Best SUV:Ford Expedition Max
  • Best Truck:Ram 1500

  • Midsized SUV: Seats up to eight with three-row options; better for child seats.

  • Best SUV:Honda Pilot
  • Best Truck:Honda Ridgeline

3. Access

  • Large Vehicles: Both SUVs and pickups sit high, making entry challenging.
  • Winner: Tie (SUVs easier for rear access, pickups excel for cargo.)

  • Midsized SUV: Easier entry with spacious doors and optimal seat height.

  • Best SUV:Honda Pilot
  • Best Truck:Honda Ridgeline

4. Fuel Economy

  • Large Pickup: Slightly more efficient than SUVs due to lighter weight.
  • Best Truck:Ford F-150

  • Midsized SUV: Better overall efficiency than compact pickups.

  • Best SUV:Toyota Highlander Hybrid
  • Best Truck:GMC Canyon Diesel

5. Towing Capacity

  • Large Pickup: Superior towing, often exceeding 10,000 pounds.
  • Best Truck:Ford F-150

  • Compact Pickup: Edges out midsized SUVs for towing capacity.

  • Best Truck:GMC Canyon Diesel

6. Ride Comfort

  • Large SUV: Smoother ride than pickups, especially on highways and uneven roads.
  • Best SUV:Chevrolet Suburban Premier
  • Best Truck:Ram 1500

  • Midsized SUV: More refined ride than compact pickups; less jostling for passengers.

  • Best SUV:Subaru Ascent
  • Best Truck:Honda Ridgeline

Which Should You Choose?

  • Choose an SUV if:
  • You prioritize seating, comfort, and smoother rides.
  • You often travel with family or need three rows of seating.

  • Choose a Pickup if:

  • You need higher towing capacity.
  • You haul cargo regularly and prioritize bed utility.

Each vehicle type has strengths, so the best choice depends on your lifestyle and priorities.


Next: Read 2500+ consumer guides to shopping, electronics, appliances, home services, cars, money and more.
If you liked all this, consider supporting us by checking out Tiny Skills - 250+ Top Work & Personal Skills Made Easy

The Success Manuals


The Career Advice Bible

100+ Most Important Career Questions
Finally Answered

318 Pages | $5 | PDF & EPub, Kindle Ready

250 Top Work & Personal Skills Made Easy

The First & Only Encyclopedia of Self Help,
Self Improvement & Career Advice

250+ Easy-to-Follow Guides
5000+ Proven Tips

13 Types of Essential Skills Covered
Get The Value of 100+ Best Books in 1 Book.

502 Pages | $5 | PDF / EPub, Kindle Ready