Ep. 303: Andre Road-Tripped 6 Trucks This Year - Which One Is the Best?
About this episode
A deep dive into the road trip experiences of six different trucks, focusing on the 2026 Ram 1500 Express as a standout for its affordability and impressive fuel efficiency. The hosts discuss various features, including the truck's Hurricane engine and interior comfort. They also share insights from their travels, including comparisons with other brands like Ford and GM, and highlight unique truck news from events in Japan and Germany. The episode wraps up with personal favorites among the trucks driven, emphasizing the importance of configuration for specific needs.
In this episode of TFL Talkin’ Trucks, Andre looks back on an incredible year of road-tripping six different trucks across the country. From mountain passes to desert trails, he’s driven them all — testing towing, comfort, efficiency, and real-world capability along the way. Now, he’s revealing which one stood out as the best road-tripping truck of the year!
Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
Ram 1500
"...next to the new 2026 Ram 1500 Express that I recently drove just last week from Detroit to Denver for some testing."
The Ram 1500 Express is a type of pickup truck that is designed for both work and everyday use. The 2026 version includes new features that make it more efficient and comfortable to drive.
The Ram 1500 Express is a trim level of the Ram 1500, a full-size pickup truck known for its capability and versatility. The 2026 model year features updated technology and performance enhancements, making it suitable for both work and leisure.
Dodge Ram
"...articular that we're looking at behind us is how Ram is trying to address some of that. So this is a ..."
The Dodge Ram is a big truck that can carry heavy things and is good for work. It's popular because it's comfortable to drive and can do a lot of different jobs.
The Dodge Ram, now known as the Ram Truck, is a full-size pickup known for its strong performance and comfortable ride. It has a reputation for being a reliable workhorse and is often discussed for its towing capacity and features.
Japanese Mobility Show
"And also we have some news of several things going on. For example, Roman and Tommy are in Japan at the Japanese Mobility Show."
The Japanese Mobility Show is a big car exhibition in Japan where companies show off their new cars and technology. It's a place to see what's coming in the automotive world.
The Japanese Mobility Show is a significant automotive event showcasing the latest innovations and trends in the automotive industry, particularly in Japan. It features various manufacturers and their upcoming models, technologies, and concepts.
auto show
"Which is their big major auto show. It's a huge deal."
An auto show is a big event where car companies show off their newest cars and features. People can see the latest models and learn about new technology in cars.
An auto show is an event where car manufacturers display their latest models and innovations to the public and industry professionals. These shows often feature new vehicle launches, concept cars, and advancements in automotive technology.
Ford F150
"Their 2026 F-150 configurator recently went live."
The F-150 is a popular truck made by Ford that is used for work and everyday driving. It's known for being tough and reliable.
The Ford F-150 is a full-size pickup truck known for its durability, versatility, and strong performance, making it a popular choice among truck buyers.
Ram Dude
"...there was a special model of Ram trucks called the dude. That they're bringing back for SEMA specifically. So we could talk about that."
The Ram Dude is a special version of Ram trucks that has unique features and design elements. It's being brought back for a car show called SEMA, where manufacturers showcase new and interesting vehicles.
The Ram Dude is a special trim of Ram trucks that was originally released in the past and is being revived for events like SEMA. It is known for its distinctive styling and features that set it apart from standard models.
Ram 500 Express
"...when you check the Ram 500 Express, you kind of get this a little bit more attractive..."
The Ram 500 Express is a type of Ram truck that looks good and is useful for carrying things. It's designed to be more stylish than the regular models.
The Ram 500 Express is a variant of the Ram pickup truck line, known for its combination of utility and style. It typically features a more streamlined design and additional aesthetic enhancements compared to the base models.
Hurricane engine
"Also, this truck has a Hurricane engine, which is their latest three liter twin turbo straight six."
The Hurricane engine is a type of engine that uses two turbochargers to boost power while being more efficient than older designs. It's a straight-six, meaning it has six cylinders arranged in a line.
The Hurricane engine is a new three-liter twin-turbo straight-six engine developed by Stellantis, designed for improved performance and efficiency in their vehicles.
twin turbo
"which is their latest three liter twin turbo straight six. We'll talk about that a little bit."
Twin turbo means the engine has two turbochargers that help it produce more power by pushing more air into the engine, making it run better and faster.
A twin-turbo setup uses two turbochargers to increase engine power and efficiency by forcing more air into the engine's combustion chamber.
Chevrolet Express
"...ore we go any further. Yeah, so because this Ram Express that we're talking about is meant to be a slight..."
The Chevrolet Express is a big van that can carry a lot of people or things. It's useful for businesses and families who need extra space.
The Chevrolet Express is a full-size van known for its spacious interior and versatility, often used for commercial purposes or large families. It is frequently discussed for its practicality and reliability in transporting people and cargo.
Ram Express
"Yeah, so because this Ram Express that we're talking about is meant to be a slightly more affordable truck..."
The Ram Express is a type of pickup truck that is designed to be a less expensive option compared to other models in the Ram lineup, making it more accessible for buyers.
The Ram Express is a variant of the Ram pickup truck that offers a more affordable option with a focus on value while still providing many features and capabilities.
four wheel drive
"But out here, four wheel drive is pretty important. So we would both spec a truck with four wheel drive."
Four wheel drive means that all four wheels of the vehicle can move at the same time, which helps the car grip the road better, especially in bad weather or rough terrain.
Four wheel drive (4WD) is a drivetrain system that allows all four wheels of a vehicle to receive power from the engine simultaneously. This enhances traction and control, especially in off-road or slippery conditions.
trailer brake controller
"The other thing is this truck as it's spec'ed does not have a trailer brake controller. No, it does have a hitch though with wiring, but no trailer brake controller."
A trailer brake controller helps you control the brakes on a trailer you're towing, making it safer and easier to stop without losing control.
A trailer brake controller is a device that allows the driver to control the brakes of a trailer from inside the towing vehicle. It is essential for safely towing heavy loads, as it helps to prevent trailer sway and ensures smooth braking.
hitch
"No, it does have a hitch though with wiring, but no trailer brake controller."
A hitch is a part on the back of a vehicle that lets you attach a trailer so you can pull it along with your car or truck.
A hitch is a device attached to the rear of a vehicle that allows it to tow trailers or other vehicles. It is a crucial component for towing and comes in various types depending on the weight and size of the load.
incentives
"But a lot of trucks that are already on dealer lots are seeing some pretty big incentives. Especially here locally in Colorado, you're seeing as much as what $7,000 off the sticker price..."
Incentives are ways to save money when buying a car. They can be cash discounts or lower loan rates that make it cheaper to buy a vehicle.
Incentives are discounts or financial benefits offered by manufacturers or dealers to encourage the purchase of vehicles. They can include cash rebates, low-interest financing, or special lease offers.
sticker price
"...you're seeing as much as what $7,000 off the sticker price of a lot of Ram trucks that are for sale locally here."
The sticker price is the price that the car manufacturer recommends for the car. It's what you see on the window when you look at a new car.
The sticker price is the manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) displayed on a vehicle's window. It represents the price before any discounts or incentives are applied.
manufacturer incentive
"Because they changed a lot. But right now at least on the Ram 1500 Express, there's like a $3,000 or $4,000 manufacturer incentive."
A manufacturer incentive is a discount given by the car company to help sell their cars. It means you could pay less for a car than the sticker price, making it more affordable.
Manufacturer incentives are discounts or rebates offered by car manufacturers to encourage sales. These can significantly reduce the purchase price of a vehicle and are often used to boost sales during specific periods or for certain models.
horsepower
"...this truck is really good. But for having 420 horsepower and 469 pound feet of torque and get over 25 MPG, that's remarkable, I think."
Horsepower measures how powerful an engine is. The higher the horsepower, the faster and stronger the vehicle can go.
Horsepower is a unit of measurement that indicates the power output of an engine. It helps determine how quickly a vehicle can accelerate and how much work it can perform.
torque
"...this truck is really good. But for having 420 horsepower and 469 pound feet of torque and get over 25 MPG, that's remarkable, I think."
Torque measures how much force an engine can use to turn the wheels. More torque means better acceleration and the ability to pull heavier loads.
Torque is a measure of rotational force, which in vehicles translates to how much pulling power an engine has. It is crucial for acceleration and towing capacity.
MPG
"...this truck is really good. But for having 420 horsepower and 469 pound feet of torque and get over 25 MPG, that's remarkable, I think."
MPG means how far a car can go on a gallon of gas. The higher the MPG, the less gas the car uses for the distance traveled.
MPG stands for miles per gallon, a measure of fuel efficiency that indicates how many miles a vehicle can travel on one gallon of fuel. Higher MPG means better fuel economy.
Canyon Lake color
"...which comes in a really cool Canyon Lake color, which is a little bit green tint."
Canyon Lake is a special paint color for the Ram 1500 that has a greenish tint. Different colors can make a car look more attractive.
Canyon Lake is a specific color option available for the Ram 1500, characterized by its unique green tint. Color options can significantly affect the visual appeal and resale value of a vehicle.
18 inch wheels
"We still wheels 18 inch wheels, which means we have more sidewall."
18 inch wheels are the size of the wheels on a car. Bigger wheels can help the car drive better, but they might also make the ride feel bumpier because the tires have less rubber around them.
18 inch wheels refer to the diameter of the wheel, which can affect a vehicle's handling, ride comfort, and appearance. Larger wheels often provide better performance but may result in a harsher ride due to less sidewall on the tires.
Mercedes-Benz Sprinter
"Yeah, that's, apparently it's a sculpture of a van. It's a sprinter."
The Mercedes-Benz Sprinter is a large van that can be used for transporting goods or people. It's known for being reliable and can be customized in many ways to fit different needs.
The Mercedes-Benz Sprinter is a versatile van known for its spacious interior and various configurations for cargo or passenger transport. It's popular among businesses for its reliability and customizability.
Mercedes-Benz
"...going back into the, gosh, the 1800s, the first Mercedes commercial vehicle was in 1896."
Mercedes-Benz is a famous car brand from Germany that makes luxury cars and commercial vehicles. They have been making vehicles since the late 1800s.
Mercedes-Benz is a German automotive brand known for luxury vehicles, buses, and trucks. It has a long history dating back to the 19th century and is recognized for its engineering and innovation.
Benz Patent Motorwagen
"...I know Tommy at one point drove the Benz Patent Motorwagen, which is kind of in the first car. Which is similar to that, yes."
The Benz Patent Motorwagen is known as the first real car, created in 1886. It had a small engine and was a big step in making vehicles that didn't need horses to move.
The Benz Patent Motorwagen is widely regarded as the first true automobile, built in 1886 by Karl Benz. It was powered by a single-cylinder four-stroke engine and is considered a significant milestone in automotive history.
Sprinter
"...but in 1995, they created the Sprinter name."
The Sprinter is a type of van made by Mercedes-Benz that started being sold in 1995. It's popular for businesses because it can carry a lot of stuff and be used in many ways.
The Sprinter is a line of vans produced by Mercedes-Benz, first introduced in 1995. It is known for its versatility and is used for various commercial applications.
Toyota IMV Origin
"It's a Toyota IMV Origin. That's the name. Yeah, so this is the build it yourself truck kit that Andre was talking about."
The Toyota IMV Origin is a type of truck that you can customize yourself. It's designed to be flexible and can be built in different ways depending on what you need.
The Toyota IMV Origin is a concept vehicle designed for modularity, allowing users to customize their truck according to their needs. It is part of Toyota's Innovative International Multi-purpose Vehicle (IMV) project.
Toyota IMV prototype
"This, this is interesting. To me, this Toyota IMV prototype, doesn't really look like a truck. It kind of looks like a utility golf cart."
The Toyota IMV prototype is a test vehicle that Toyota is working on. It's meant to be useful like a truck, but it looks different and more like a flat platform than a typical truck with sides.
The Toyota IMV prototype is a concept vehicle designed to showcase Toyota's innovative platform for utility vehicles. It emphasizes versatility and functionality, although its design may not resemble traditional trucks.
Volkswagen Golf
"...ok like a truck. It kind of looks like a utility golf cart. Yeah, but technically, because it's a plat..."
The Volkswagen Golf is a small car that is easy to drive and great for everyday use. It's popular because it has a lot of space inside and is fun to drive.
The Volkswagen Golf is a compact car known for its practicality, performance, and versatility. It has been a significant player in the hatchback segment since its introduction in the 1970s, often praised for its driving dynamics and build quality.
Jeep Willis
"And one way to do it, like the original Jeep Willis. Is by literally offering less truck. Yeah, yeah, that's fair."
The Jeep Willis was a military vehicle used in World War II. It was small, tough, and could be easily moved around, making it useful for soldiers.
The Jeep Willis refers to the original military Jeep used during World War II, known for its ruggedness and versatility. It was designed to be a lightweight vehicle that could be easily transported and deployed in various terrains.
Willys MB
"There's something about a Willys MB that looks a little better than this."
The Willys MB is a tough military jeep from World War II. It's famous for being able to drive over rough terrain and is considered one of the first SUVs.
The Willys MB is a military vehicle that was widely used during World War II, known for its ruggedness and versatility. It is often recognized as one of the first true SUVs, and its design has influenced many vehicles that followed.
electric vehicle
"Yeah, so this is supposed to be electric and you could put the seat either on the right-hand side for driving or left-hand side for driving."
An electric vehicle is a car that runs on electricity instead of gasoline. They are better for the environment and can save money on fuel.
An electric vehicle (EV) is a car that is powered entirely or partially by electricity, using electric motors instead of traditional internal combustion engines. EVs are known for being more environmentally friendly and often have lower operating costs.
PowerBoost
"...Power Boost, it was an XL crew cab, shorter bed..."
PowerBoost is a name Ford uses for their hybrid system in the F-150. It means the truck can use both gas and electricity to run, which helps save fuel.
PowerBoost is Ford's branding for their hybrid powertrain system in the F-150, combining a traditional gasoline engine with an electric motor for improved efficiency and power.
Ford Lobo
"...ight? Because recently Ford introduced the F-150 Lobo, which was a slightly lower truck with a V8 engi..."
The Ford Lobo is basically the same as the Ford F-150 but is called a different name in Mexico. It's a popular truck for many of the same reasons.
The Ford Lobo is the name used for the Ford F-150 in the Mexican market, known for its versatility and strong performance. It is often discussed for its similar features to the F-150 while catering to regional preferences.
Dodge Viper
"...assle, high output hurricane? I was going to say Viper V10. But high output hurricane works, too, yeah."
The Dodge Viper is a super-fast sports car that is really exciting to drive. It's known for its loud engine and cool looks.
The Dodge Viper is a high-performance sports car known for its powerful V10 engine and aggressive styling. It has a dedicated fan base and is often discussed for its raw performance and driving experience.
Toyota Supra
"Yes. And they've got their Mark IV Supra all hopped up, and it's loud, and it spits flame..."
The Toyota Supra is a fast sports car that many people love because it looks cool and can go really fast. It's known for being able to be modified to make it even more powerful.
The Toyota Supra is a sports car that has gained a cult following for its performance and tuning potential, especially the Mark IV model from the 1990s. It is often discussed for its powerful engine and iconic design, making it a favorite among car enthusiasts.
Tesla Semi
"Well, yes, in the Warlock video, too. Is it a semi? It's a 19, I think it's a 1940."
The Tesla Semi is a big electric truck that is meant for delivering goods. It's exciting because it can save money on fuel and is better for the environment.
The Tesla Semi is an all-electric truck designed for freight transport, showcasing Tesla's advancements in electric vehicle technology. It is often discussed for its potential to revolutionize the trucking industry with lower operating costs and zero emissions.
Rolls-Royce Silver Spur
"...s borrow this Gooseneck trailer. So shout out to Silver Spur. That was a pretty amazing deal that we had."
The Rolls-Royce Silver Spur is a very fancy car that is built to be super comfortable and luxurious. It's known for being a status symbol for wealthy people.
The Rolls-Royce Silver Spur is a luxury sedan known for its opulence and craftsmanship. It is often discussed for its status symbol appeal and the high level of comfort it provides to its passengers.
Chevrolet Silverado
"And he brought a Duramax. So he drove our Silverado Duramax there. Our company truck."
The Chevrolet Silverado is a big truck that can carry heavy loads and is great for work or outdoor activities. It's popular because it's tough and can handle a lot of different tasks.
The Chevrolet Silverado is a full-size pickup truck that is known for its durability, towing capacity, and versatility. It is one of the best-selling trucks in the U.S. and is often discussed for its performance in both work and recreational settings.
GMC Hummer EV
"...de. Because to me, like this morning I drove the Hummer EV truck that we have on loan here."
The GMC Hummer EV is a big electric truck that can go off-road and is very powerful. It's exciting because it shows how trucks can be both tough and eco-friendly.
The GMC Hummer EV is an all-electric pickup truck that combines the ruggedness of the Hummer brand with modern electric vehicle technology. It is often discussed for its impressive performance and off-road capabilities.
Ford F350
"...1,000 miles, you know, like you and I drove that F350 duly. A long time ago, yeah."
The Ford F-350 is a very strong truck that can pull heavy trailers and carry big loads. It's popular among people who need a truck for tough jobs.
The Ford F-350 is a heavy-duty pickup truck known for its exceptional towing and hauling capabilities. It is often discussed for its performance in commercial applications and as a reliable work vehicle.
Toyota Tundra
"... only has one axle ratio, if I'm correct, on the Tundra. And by the way, we've done a couple of Toyota t..."
The Toyota Tundra is a large truck that can carry a lot of stuff and is good for driving off-road. It's known for being dependable and comfortable for long trips.
The Toyota Tundra is a full-size pickup truck recognized for its reliability and strong performance. It is often discussed for its off-road capabilities and spacious interior, making it a solid choice for both work and leisure.
Toyota Tacoma
"...ota trips as well. For example, we purchased the Tacoma in Houston, Houston area, Roman and I. We drove ..."
The Toyota Tacoma is a smaller truck that is great for off-road adventures and can carry things like camping gear. It's known for being tough and lasting a long time.
The Toyota Tacoma is a midsize pickup truck that is well-regarded for its off-road capabilities and rugged design. It has a strong reputation for reliability and is popular among outdoor enthusiasts.
Gmc Canyon
"there is a GMC. And in fact, this is not the GMC Canyon that we own. But we do own a GMC Canyon AT4X."
The GMC Canyon Crew Cab is a smaller truck that has room for passengers and can carry things in the back. It's good for people who want a truck that isn't too big but still useful.
The GMC Canyon Crew Cab is a midsize pickup truck that offers a balance of utility and comfort, making it suitable for both work and everyday driving. It is often discussed for its stylish design and practical features.
Ford Model T
"We've got a 1920, what year is it? We've got a Model T pickup as well, if that counts. We had a Ranger ..."
The Ford Model T is one of the first cars that many people could afford. It changed how cars were made and helped more people own cars.
The Ford Model T is an iconic vehicle that revolutionized the automotive industry in the early 20th century by making cars affordable for the average person. It is often discussed for its historical significance and impact on mass production.
Ford Ranger Raptor
"...Model T pickup as well, if that counts. We had a Ranger Raptor before we got the Canyon. So it's actually been ..."
The Ford Raptor Ranger is a tough truck that is built for off-roading and can handle rough trails. It's popular because it's powerful and fun to drive in the dirt.
The Ford Raptor Ranger is a high-performance version of the Ranger pickup truck, designed for off-road adventures. It is often discussed for its powerful engine and rugged capabilities, making it a favorite among off-road enthusiasts.
Honda Passport
"... months, maybe three months. And there's a Honda Passport trail sport. It's bright orange."
The Honda Passport is a family-friendly SUV that has plenty of room inside for people and their stuff. It's good for both city driving and going on trips.
The Honda Passport is a midsize SUV that offers a spacious interior and strong off-road capabilities. It is often discussed for its practicality and comfort, making it a popular choice for families and adventure seekers.
Honda Ridgeline
"...I think that could be a really cool thing for the Ridgeline. I agree, especially for the use case for that t..."
The Honda Ridgeline is a smaller truck that drives more like a car and has some neat features, like storage in the back. It's great for people who want a truck that is easy to handle.
The Honda Ridgeline is a unique midsize pickup truck that offers a car-like ride and innovative features, such as an in-bed trunk. It is often discussed for its practicality and comfort, appealing to those who want a versatile vehicle.
Ford Maverick
"...nk it could be really useful because in the Ford Maverick, for example, that makes that truck that much mo..."
The Ford Maverick is a small truck that is easy to drive and saves gas. It's a good choice for people who want a truck but don't need something very big.
The Ford Maverick is a compact pickup truck that combines the utility of a truck with the efficiency of a car. It has gained attention for its affordability and hybrid option, appealing to a new generation of truck buyers.
Jeep Gladiator
"... very likely that a V8 might make its way into a Gladiator. Yes."
The Jeep Gladiator is a truck that can go off-road like a Jeep and also carry stuff in the back. It's popular because it can handle tough terrains and looks cool.
The Jeep Gladiator is a unique midsize pickup truck that combines the off-road capabilities of a Jeep with the functionality of a truck bed. It is often discussed for its rugged design and versatility in both on-road and off-road situations.
Request an Explanation
Heard something you'd like explained? We'll add it to this episode.
Sign in to request explanations for terms you heard.
Want to learn more?
Browse our glossary for plain-English explanations of automotive terms, jargon, and concepts.
Help improve this episode
See something that's not quite right? Our annotations are AI-generated and can sometimes miss the mark. Click the flag icon on any annotation to suggest a correction.