4 2025 Pickup Trucks the Middle Class Should Avoid Buying
Written by
Laura Beck
Edited by
Zuri Anderson
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A pickup truck used to mean just a simple work vehicle. Now it’s something that could totally wreck your family’s budget.
Carmakers today are creating these massive trucks that might cost more than your house.
“Trucks have evolved a lot,” explained Chris Pyle, auto expert at JustAnswer. “Used to be a truck was just a vehicle with a bed. Now they are very rigid, very expensive, have high HP/TQ engines, can haul a lot of weight, and can tow a lot of weight.”
If you’re on a budget, think twice before buying a truck like this. Here are four trucks from next year’s models that you should avoid.
2025 Ford F-450 Super Duty
The Ford F-450 Super Duty is made for heavy-duty work, so naturally, its towing and payload capacities are impressive. However, all that power that comes with trade-offs that you might not want if you’re just an average driver.
“If you are not going to use the truck for its purpose (tow and haul 90% of its lifetime), then do not spend your money on a half-ton or bigger truck,” advised Pyle. “They cost too much, the fuel mileage is not all that great and they ride rough.”
He added that diesel trucks like the F-450 are especially expensive to operate and maintain. And if you live or drive in a city, a big truck like this can be more of a liability than not. Just parking and maneuvering it around can be a hassle.
2025 Ram 3500 Heavy Duty
The Ram 3500 Heavy Duty is not a bad truck. But, like the Ford F-450, it’s overkill for most people.
“The 2025 Ram 3500 Heavy Duty is another formidable truck aimed at commercial users and serious off-road enthusiasts,” explained Frank Bisciotti, expert at RealTruck.
He also pointed out the low fuel efficiency and higher insurance premiums you’ll pay, all of which make ownership cost more than just what you pay at the dealership.
2025 GMC Sierra 2500HD Denali
GMC has mastered the art of building trucks that will devastate your bank account. The Sierra 2500HD Denali is a prime example of style over financial sense.
The design is focused on luxury, which comes at a price. Starting MSRPs are expected to be around $80,000 or more. And the truck is filled with unnecessary premium features that don’t add much practical value.
“The Denali’s sophisticated technology and premium materials also mean higher repair and maintenance costs,” explained Bisciotti.
For the average buyer, the Denali is definitely a questionable decision. Not only do you probably not need a truck this large, you don’t need a luxury model, either. And when it’s time to sell, the resale value probably won’t justify your original investment, either.
2025 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD High Country
The Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD High Country is another truck that combines heavy-duty capability with luxury. Like the Sierra Denali, it’s targeted toward buyers who want a work truck with a premium experience.
But for middle-class buyers, that luxury means it’s probably unattainable. At least, not if you’re trying to make good financial decisions.
Bisciotti described the 2025 Silverado as more of a financial burden than a benefit for middle-class consumers.
“Especially those prioritizing budget and practicality,” he added.
“The smaller trucks, though, are a good buy and worth it as long as you do not need a workhorse,” Pyle recommended. “If you need a larger and more powerful truck, I would suggest the middle class seek a used one.”
Photos are for representational purposes only.
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