Road Test: 2006 Chevrolet Silverado 1500, 2006 Dodge Ram 1500, 2006 Ford F-150, 2006 Nissan Titan and, 2006 Toyota Tundra

Relatively speaking, the Titan cabin felt austere, with materials and execution not as well done as those of the Ford and Dodge, with a huge advantage--it's $7000 cheaper than either. Despite the midlevel trim, the Titan had a full-power driver's seat, Rockford Fosgate sound system, adjustable pedals, rear parking sensors, and a transmission temperature gauge. Efficient use of space yields stowage for any size and shape of item and keeps them within reach. We didn't like that the console seemed to move with the shifter, or how the radio display reflected in the rear window after dark, but if the others have floormats, these should be labeled area rugs. The Titan was the most trucklike here and subsequently scored a close second in cab utility and tied for last in comfort.

Our Tundra had the ideal setup for a family on a budget: The driver's seat had manual controls, but the DVD player and huge sunroof are destined for kids to enjoy. There's also a full rolldown rear window, giving a convertible-like openness (that plus a shell makes the ideal combination for dog owners), a power inverter, underfloor cargo areas, and a tactile feel to the controls. The folding rear seat tilts forward, creating a "wall" between it and the front seats, but the center console was small, even before Toyota stuck a DVD drive in the middle of it. Driver John Stewart spoke for most judges by noting the Toyota was "high quality but not the highest comfort" and a capable performer.

As a six-year-old design, the Chevy suffered, but appropriate option selection and more money could solve many ills and limit the impact of others. The Ram and Hemi have their own followers and a new standard of lux to enjoy, but again options are critical (stick with 17s), and a gas pump reading a cost of nearly $75 for 350 miles of driving hurts. Toyota's Tundra does many things well and comes across as a balanced package, only helped by the driveline updates; what comes out of Texas should prove interesting. Rounded off to $40,000, the F-150 was pricey, but your spouse likely won't mind driving it, and no one should complain about riding in it. Our car colleagues at Motor Trend named it Truck of the Year in 2004.

The Winner
But this is Truck Trend, and this is a pickup test done by pickup guys. With usable power, driving enjoyment, and hauling versatility, we name the Titan our winner as best truck for 2005.