If you’re interested in buying a full-size truck, there are loads of excellent options. As one of the leading reviewers and experts, Consumer Reports’ rankings are highly-regarded. Both Ford models managed to crack the top three for the full-size pickup segment. In a crowded class of vehicles, how did the automaker get two models where others don’t have one? Here’s why the Ford F-150 and Ford F-250 full-size trucks both cracked Consumer Reports‘ top three.

Consumer Reports’ top 3 full-size trucks

Consumer Reports‘ top three full-size trucks are the 2022 Ram 1500, 2022 Ford F-150, and 2022 Ford F-250. Ram’s offering is a little ahead of the pack and is the only model recommended by CR. However, both Ford options aren’t far behind the leader. Ford has two models that beat other popular truck industry titans like Chevy, Toyota, Nissan, and GMC.

For CR’s overall ratings, the Ram 1500 received a 75 out of a possible 100. However, the 2022 Ford F-150 isn’t far behind, with an overall score of 60. Its slightly larger brother fell further behind, earning a 56 out of 100. Ford’s trucks are still losing to the Ram 1500, but what’s so great about them to get two in the top three? Ford’s offerings are immaculate compared to models like the Ram 1500 Classic. Ram’s lesser truck received an abysmal score of 39 from Consumer Reports.

Why did both Ford full-size trucks make the top 3?

Firstly, the second-place F-150 is the most popular vehicle in the United States. It’s been that way for so long that we can’t remember a time when it wasn’t. In CR’s review, highlights include quietness and cabin room. Especially with full-size trucks, all that torque with the big engines can make for a noisy interior space. However, the F-150 does an excellent job of silencing those sounds. Additionally, the acceleration is top-notch, providing a bit of pep right out of the gate. Lastly, the F-150 uses the Ford Sync infotainment system and provides users with responsive and intuitive controls for everything.

Next, the third-place F-250 is a little bit different. Since it’s a larger truck, it doesn’t share the same silent cabin or smooth acceleration as its smaller sibling. However, CR loves how much the F-250 can tow, which is 15,000 pounds at its best. Moreover, the cabin is surprisingly roomy, providing even rear passengers with ample space. In addition, the F-250 is reasonably quiet when equipped with a diesel engine, which doesn’t happen very often. Finally, the tailgate is lighter than most, a welcomed feature for all full-size pickups.

Other full-size pickup trucks fall short

Other trucks Consumer Reports reviewed include the Nissan Titan, Ram 1500 Classic, Chevrolet Silverado 1500, and GMC Sierra 1500. Surprisingly, the Nissan Titan came the closest to matching Ford’s offerings in 2022. However, the popular Silverado failed to impress the experts. Most notably, CR doesn’t like the Chevy and GMC twins’ reliability, which has proven low time and time again.

The Titan has a few significant issues finishing just one point below the F-250. One is fuel economy since it still only offers a V8 engine. Although it’s a solid motor, the Titan’s 11 mpg in the city and 22 on the highway isn’t enough to help it against the competition, which all offer hybrid variants. Additionally, the Nissan full-size pickup tends to depreciate more quickly than competitors, making it more challenging to recommend.

Ford trucks stay on top

It’s nothing new to see Ford trucks leading the way. After all, the best-selling truck for forty-something years has been Ford F-Series models. In recent years, only Ram has matched Ford in pickup truck quality. The full-size truck segment has two excellent options from the automaker. According to Consumer Reports, only the Ram 1500 is better than Ford’s two options. However, Ram’s offering starts around $5,000 higher than the F-150 and is almost as expensive as the larger F-250 in its base form.