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Top 2017 3/4-Ton Premium Trucks: Which One Ranks Highest
The Ultimate Three-Quarter-Ton Pickup Truck Showdown
While half-ton trucks dominate sales charts and one-ton models grab headlines for brute strength, the three-quarter-ton pickup segment often gets overlooked. Yet for many buyers, these trucks represent the perfect balance between daily drivability and serious work capability. At MotorVero, we set out to determine which of these underrated workhorses delivers the best combination of power, comfort, and value.
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How We Tested the Top Three-Quarter-Ton Trucks
Our comprehensive evaluation put four premium diesel-powered crew cab 4x4 models through rigorous testing:
- 21 performance benchmarks (empty, loaded, and towing)
- Real-world towing with a gooseneck trailer
- Subjective assessments by five truck experts
- 3,100 total possible points across all categories
Each truck was evaluated on:
- Engine performance and drivability
- Towing and payload capacity
- Braking and handling (loaded and unloaded)
- Interior comfort and technology
- Value for money
4th Place: Nissan Titan XD Platinum Reserve
Key Strengths: Most affordable, best empty braking, lightest truck, best unloaded fuel economy, quietest cabin at speed
The Titan XD proved to be the wildcard of our competition. While it couldn't match the heavier-duty competitors in work-oriented tests, it excelled as a comfortable daily driver. The Cummins-powered Nissan won five empirical categories, particularly impressing with its refined highway manners and value pricing.
However, the XD's limitations became apparent under heavy loads. With the lowest gross vehicle weight rating in the group (and 700+ pounds less payload capacity than rivals), it struggled with trailer stability and heavy towing. The smaller displacement engine also put it at a power disadvantage.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for buyers who need more than a half-ton but won't regularly push maximum capacities. Think of it as a heavy-duty lite option.
3rd Place: Ram 2500 Laramie Longhorn
Key Strengths: Best loaded braking, highest GVWR (tied), strongest bumper towing, best fuel economy while towing
The Ram 2500 came within striking distance of the top spot, demonstrating remarkable capability. Its standout features included class-leading towing specs and an innovative exhaust brake system that excelled in downhill grade testing. The luxurious Western-themed interior with premium materials and clever storage solutions impressed our judges.
Where the Ram faltered was in ride quality. Despite its unique coil spring rear suspension, the truck delivered an unexpectedly harsh ride over rough pavement. The inline-six Cummins engine, while torquey, couldn't match the acceleration of newer V-8 turbo-diesel competitors.
Bottom Line: The ultimate workhorse with luxury appointments. Choose this if maximum capability trumps ride comfort in your priorities.
2nd Place: Chevrolet Silverado 2500 LTZ Midnight Edition
Key Strengths: Fastest acceleration (loaded and empty), highest payload, strongest gooseneck towing, most powerful engine
The Silverado 2500 emerged as the performance leader of our test. Its upgraded Duramax diesel and six-speed transmission delivered shocking acceleration, easily winning every speed-related test. The Midnight Edition package gave it the most aggressive styling of the group, while its pricing represented strong value for the capability.
Chevrolet's weakness came in interior execution. Despite its mechanical brilliance, the cabin felt dated compared to rivals. This cost it valuable points in our subjective scoring, ultimately keeping it off the top podium position.
Bottom Line: The drag strip champion of heavy-duty trucks. Ideal for buyers who prioritize power and value over interior refinement.
1st Place: Ford Super Duty F-250 King Ranch
Key Strengths: Highest GCWR, premium interior, quietest at idle, best overall balance
The redesigned Ford Super Duty claimed victory through exceptional balance. While it didn't dominate specific categories like some competitors, it consistently placed first or second in 14 of 21 tests. The aluminum-body F-250 impressed most with its luxurious, tech-filled interior that our judges unanimously rated as best in class.
Ford's substantial investment in the new Super Duty platform showed in details like the refined powertrain, improved visibility, and thoughtful storage solutions. While not perfect (we noted some body panel inconsistencies and firm ride quality), the overall package set a new standard for the segment.
Bottom Line: The new benchmark in three-quarter-ton trucks. Combines best-in-class interior with uncompromised capability.
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Key Takeaways From Our Three-Quarter-Ton Truck Challenge
Our testing revealed several important insights about today's heavy-duty pickup market:
- Diesel dominance: All competitors used torque-biased turbo-diesel engines, highlighting their importance in this segment
- Technology arms race: Advanced towing aids and driver assistance features are becoming standard even on work-oriented trucks
- Price stratification: Test vehicles ranged from mid-$60,000s to nearly $77,000, reflecting growing premiumization
- Weight matters: Heavier trucks generally performed better in loaded and towing scenarios despite fuel economy penalties
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Which Three-Quarter-Ton Truck Is Right For You?
Choosing between these capable trucks depends on your specific needs:
- Occasional heavy use: Nissan Titan XD offers the best blend of comfort and capability for light-duty heavy truck needs
- Maximum towing: Ram 2500's bumper pull rating and exhaust brake make it ideal for frequent trailer work
- Performance focus: Chevrolet Silverado 2500 delivers stunning acceleration and strong value
- Premium all-rounder: Ford Super Duty F-250 combines luxury and capability better than any competitor
The three-quarter-ton segment offers more choice and capability than ever before. Whether you prioritize power, comfort, or value, there's a truck that perfectly matches your heavy-duty needs.
motorverorachael
Last Updated On Aug, 05-2025