Is America’s love affair with giant pickup trucks starting to fade? Big truck owners are starting to dump their massive rides for smaller options. But why are drivers suddenly deciding that they might not need full-size options anymore? 

About half of big truck owners consider smaller cars 

It’s no secret that Americans love their gigantic pickups. There’s no feeling like the joy provided by that big truck energy. For years, the incredibly popular Ford F-150 has benefited from increasing sales. 

However, drivers may have reached the tipping point. According to American Trucks, 42% of owners would consider downsizing or selling their pickup for convenience. 

Drivers share that the high cost of gas is their primary reason. Others reference tight or small parking spaces. It’s difficult to park in city lots and to find street parking. 

Some full-size options are difficult to navigate on narrow stirrers and in tight urban areas. Plus, big pickups don’t fit in standard garages. Also, there’s a higher risk of dings or scratches that’s paired with higher insurance costs. 

I’m surprised that the high cost of trucks isn’t a factor in this survey. The average transaction price of a full-size model in 2026 is in the $50,000 range. 

About 61% of these owners have a Nissan truck. The Nissan Titan has an awful turning radius and only gets an EPA-estimated 18 mpg combined. Then 60% of owners who consider downsizing own a Honda. 

The Honda Ridgeline is easier to park as it’s a mid-size option. But it’s typically not used as a work truck or off-roader due to having a unibody design. It only tows up to 5,000 lbs, falling behind rivals. 

Also, 33% of Chevrolet drivers would consider downsizing. This is odd to me, as the Silverado has a better turning radius and an efficient diesel engine. But I’ve noted that it has a lacking interior and rougher ride compared to rivals.