Ep. 304: The BEST (And WORST) Trucks At SEMA 2025!
About this episode
SEMA Show 2025 showcased an array of exciting trucks, with hosts Casey and Andre exploring Ford's impressive Raptor R and Maverick 300T, both boasting significant power upgrades. They also highlighted unique custom builds, including a Chevrolet 6500 off-road rig and a Toyota Land Cruiser pickup with advanced suspension. The episode features interviews with builders and insights into innovative products like Bestop's electric tops for Broncos and Jeeps. The hosts share their favorites and discuss the overall buzz and creativity at the show, making it a vibrant exploration of the truck scene.
( https://www.alltfl.com/ ) Check out our new spot to find ALL our content, from news to videos and our podcasts! In this episode of TFL Talkin’ Trucks, Kase and Andre hit the floor at SEMA 2025 to check out the best and worst trucks of the show! From wild overland rigs to slammed street builds and everything in between, they explore the most creative (and sometimes questionable) truck creations on display. It’s a full tour of the biggest automotive event of the year.
The guys highlight the craziest custom ideas, clever engineering, and a few trucks that left them scratching their heads. Whether you’re into lifted monsters, off-road beasts, or just love seeing what’s possible when imagination meets horsepower, this episode has it all.
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Ford F-150 Raptor
"...ally what we see looks like a maybe semi-standard Raptor R. Yeah. I mean, you come up with this vehicle h..."
The Ford F-150 Raptor is a special type of truck that can handle rough roads and off-road adventures really well. It's built to be tough and fast, making it popular with people who love outdoor activities.
The Ford F-150 Raptor is a high-performance version of the popular F-150 pickup truck, designed for off-road capabilities and rugged terrain. It features a powerful engine, advanced suspension, and aggressive styling, making it a favorite among enthusiasts and those who require a tough vehicle for adventurous activities.
Whipple Supercharger
"But then you look a little deeper and you do see this Whipple Supercharger on top."
A Whipple Supercharger is a device that helps an engine produce more power by pushing in extra air, making the vehicle faster.
A Whipple Supercharger is a type of supercharger that increases an engine's power output by forcing more air into the combustion chamber, enhancing performance significantly.
horsepower
"They're claiming over 900 horsepower."
Horsepower is a way to measure how powerful an engine is. The higher the horsepower, the more work the engine can do.
Horsepower is a unit of measurement for power, commonly used to describe the output of engines. It indicates how much work an engine can perform over time.
5.2-liter V8
"It's still the same basic 5.2-liter V8, and a lot of the rest of the driveline is mostly unchanged."
A 5.2-liter V8 is a type of engine with eight cylinders that helps cars go fast and perform well. The '5.2-liter' part tells you how big the engine is.
The 5.2-liter V8 refers to an engine configuration with eight cylinders arranged in a V shape, with a total displacement of 5.2 liters. This type of engine is known for its power and performance.
carbon fiber
"some carbon fiber, you know, accessories and touch points like these little vents and the hood."
Carbon fiber is a very strong and light material used in cars to help them go faster and use less fuel.
Carbon fiber is a lightweight and strong material often used in high-performance vehicles for components like body panels and accessories to reduce weight and improve performance.
Ford Maverick
"...tle sporty vehicle for the street? How about the Maverick? There's the other exciting piece of news that i..."
The Ford Maverick is a smaller truck that is easy to drive and great for everyday use. It can carry things in the back like a regular truck, but it's also designed to save on gas, making it a smart choice for many drivers.
The Ford Maverick is a compact pickup truck that combines utility with efficiency, offering a hybrid powertrain option. It is significant for its affordability and versatility, appealing to a younger demographic looking for a practical vehicle without the bulk of traditional trucks.
Ford Mustang
"...s it's got a turbo that's pulled from an EcoBoost Mustang. Yeah."
The Ford Mustang is a famous sports car that people love for its speed and cool design. It's been around for a long time and is often seen as a symbol of American car culture.
The Ford Mustang is an iconic American muscle car known for its powerful performance and distinctive styling. It has a rich history and continues to be a symbol of freedom and speed, often discussed for its cultural significance and engineering advancements.
EcoBoost
"it's got a turbo that's pulled from an EcoBoost Mustang."
EcoBoost is a type of engine made by Ford that uses a turbocharger to give more power while using less fuel. It's meant to be more efficient than regular engines.
EcoBoost is a line of turbocharged, direct-injection gasoline engines developed by Ford. These engines are designed to provide better fuel efficiency and performance compared to traditional engines.
Ford Lobo
"...orsepower, 300, because a lot of people, when the Lobo came around, complained that it didn't have extra..."
The Ford Lobo is basically the same as the Ford F-150 but is sold in Mexico. It's a strong truck that people trust for work and everyday use.
The Ford Lobo is the Mexican version of the Ford F-150, known for its similar features and performance. It is significant in the Latin American market, where it caters to consumers looking for a reliable and powerful pickup truck.
Ram TRX
"...because a TRX is supposed to be coming back. So I think Ford is, of course, understands that. And Ram TRX is coming, supposedly supercharged V8, again, with more horsepower."
The Ram TRX is a special version of a Ram truck that is designed for high performance and off-roading. It has a very powerful engine that helps it go fast and handle tough terrains.
The Ram TRX is a high-performance version of the Ram 1500 pickup truck, known for its powerful supercharged V8 engine and off-road capabilities.
supercharged V8
"...Ram TRX is coming, supposedly supercharged V8, again, with more horsepower. We don't know exactly what Ram is going to do yet, but that's going to be exciting."
A supercharged V8 is a type of engine that has eight cylinders and uses a device called a supercharger to make it more powerful. This helps the vehicle go faster and perform better.
A supercharged V8 refers to an eight-cylinder engine that uses a supercharger to increase air intake, resulting in more power and performance compared to a naturally aspirated engine.
Chevrolet 6500
"I mean, obviously you picked up, is this a 6,500? This is a 6,500, which is a partnership between International and GM."
The Chevrolet 6500 is a big truck made for heavy work, like towing and carrying heavy things. It's used by businesses that need to transport large loads.
The Chevrolet 6500 is a heavy-duty truck designed for commercial use, often utilized for towing and hauling large loads. It is part of a lineup that includes various models tailored for different heavy-duty applications.
Allison transmission
"GM cab, Durmax engine, Allison transmission."
Allison transmission is a type of automatic transmission used in big trucks. It's known for being very strong and able to handle heavy loads.
The Allison transmission is a series of automatic transmissions designed for heavy-duty vehicles. They are known for their reliability and ability to handle high torque, making them ideal for trucks and commercial vehicles.
SEMA
"Something a little standout for SEMA."
SEMA is a big car show in Las Vegas where people show off custom cars and parts. It's a place for car lovers to see new and unique automotive products.
SEMA stands for the Specialty Equipment Market Association, which hosts an annual trade show in Las Vegas showcasing custom vehicles and automotive products. It's a key event for car enthusiasts and aftermarket manufacturers.
Ford Broncos
"... We pull our trailers with jeeps and buggies and Broncos in them. But we'll go 50 to 100 miles from a pav..."
chassis cab
"So it came as basically a chassis cab, right? It came as a chassis cab."
A chassis cab is a type of vehicle that has just the frame and the driver's area, without any cargo area or body. This allows businesses to add their own custom parts, like a delivery box or a tow truck bed.
A chassis cab is a vehicle configuration that consists of a bare chassis and a cab, allowing for customization with various types of bodies or equipment. It's commonly used for commercial vehicles where specific configurations are needed for different applications.
combined weight capacity
"So that's a combined 26,000 pounds, right? 26,000 pounds, yep."
Combined weight capacity is the total weight a vehicle can handle, including itself and anything else it carries. It's important to know this to avoid overloading the vehicle, which can be dangerous.
Combined weight capacity refers to the maximum weight that a vehicle can safely carry, including its own weight and any additional load. This is crucial for ensuring the vehicle operates safely and efficiently without exceeding its limits.
rhino lined
"Well, you rhino lined. I mean, you lined the truck, so it's a little bit more durable."
Rhino lining is a tough coating that is put on the inside of a truck bed or other parts to protect it from scratches and damage. It helps keep the truck looking good and lasting longer.
Rhino lining refers to a type of protective coating applied to the bed or body of a truck to enhance durability and resistance to damage from impacts, weather, and corrosion. It's commonly used in trucks to protect against wear and tear.
buck stop bumper
"Ties into the buck stop bumper. Okay, let's show that, yeah. So this is a buck stop bumper to tie in."
A buck stop bumper is a strong bumper used on trucks and off-road vehicles. It helps protect the front of the vehicle and can hold extra equipment like lights and winches.
A buck stop bumper is a type of aftermarket bumper designed for off-road vehicles, providing enhanced protection and utility. It often includes features for mounting accessories like winches and lights.
warrior winch
"22,000 pound warrior winch. I can get on stock when I need to."
A warrior winch is a strong tool that helps pull heavy things, like a stuck vehicle, out of tough spots. It's often used in off-road driving to help get vehicles out of mud or other obstacles.
A warrior winch is a heavy-duty winch used for off-road recovery and towing. It is designed to pull heavy loads, making it useful for getting vehicles out of difficult situations like mud or steep inclines.
roof rack
"...you got a roof rack on this truck, which is way up high. This truck is big."
A roof rack is something you put on top of your car to carry extra stuff, like luggage or bikes. It helps you fit more things in your vehicle without taking up space inside.
A roof rack is a set of bars secured to the roof of a vehicle, allowing for the transportation of larger items such as luggage, bikes, or kayaks. It enhances the vehicle's cargo capacity without compromising interior space.
Tesla Semi
"...ed the wheels. These are basically custom milled semi truck wheels. Okay."
The Tesla Semi is a big electric truck that is made to carry heavy loads. It's important because it shows how trucks can be more environmentally friendly and use less fuel.
The Tesla Semi is an all-electric truck designed for freight transport, featuring advanced technology and impressive range. It represents a significant shift towards sustainable transportation in the trucking industry and is often discussed for its potential impact on logistics.
22 and a half inch tires
"...So these are 22 and a half inch tires, dump truck tires that are 45 inches tall."
22 and a half inch tires are big tires used on large trucks. They help the truck carry heavy loads and keep it stable while driving.
22 and a half inch tires refer to the diameter of the tire, which is a common size for heavy-duty trucks and trailers. This size allows for better load capacity and stability on the road.
dump truck tires
"...So these are 22 and a half inch tires, dump truck tires that are 45 inches tall."
Dump truck tires are strong tires made for trucks that carry heavy materials, like dirt or gravel. They are built to handle tough roads and heavy weights.
Dump truck tires are specifically designed for heavy-duty vehicles that transport loose materials like sand, gravel, or dirt. They are built to withstand rough terrain and heavy loads.
F-600
"...I bought the Side Story. An F-600 1976 pickup truck. Actually a commercial truck that we want to turn into a pickup truck."
The Ford F-600 is a strong truck made by Ford, often used for heavy work. It was made in 1976 and is known for being tough and reliable.
The Ford F-600 is a heavy-duty truck that was popular in the 1970s, known for its robust build and versatility. It was often used for commercial purposes, including as a work truck or for towing.
liquid spring
"So liquid spring is cutting edge, top of the line suspension. You can see these red struts up here."
Liquid spring is a type of car suspension that uses liquid instead of metal springs. This helps the car ride more smoothly over bumps and makes it handle better.
Liquid spring is an advanced suspension technology that uses a liquid-filled spring system to provide a smoother ride and better handling. It can adjust to different driving conditions, improving comfort and performance.
hydraulic suspension
"It's all hydraulic. It's a compressible hydraulic load or suspension fluid."
Hydraulic suspension uses liquid to help control how a car rides and handles. It can change how the car feels while driving, making it smoother or firmer depending on the situation.
Hydraulic suspension systems use fluid to adjust the ride height and damping characteristics of a vehicle's suspension in real-time. This allows for improved handling and comfort based on driving conditions.
ECM
"it ties into the factory ECM, it feels your acceleration, your braking, pitman arm angle, et cetera."
The ECM is like the brain of the car's engine. It helps control how the engine runs by making adjustments based on information it gets from different sensors.
The Engine Control Module (ECM) is the computer that manages various engine functions, including fuel injection, ignition timing, and emissions control. It processes data from various sensors to optimize performance.
ProTech
"So the bed is a custom bed designed with ProTech. They do some really nice work."
ProTech is a company that makes special truck beds and accessories. They are known for making strong and high-quality products that can be used for different purposes.
ProTech is a company known for manufacturing custom truck beds and accessories, focusing on quality and durability. Their products are often used in various applications, including off-road and commercial use.
custom bed
"So the bed is a custom bed designed with ProTech. They do some really nice work."
A custom bed is a truck bed that has been specially made or changed to fit certain needs. It can help with things like carrying heavy loads or making the truck look better.
A custom bed refers to a truck bed that has been specifically designed or modified to meet certain needs or preferences, often enhancing functionality or aesthetics. In this context, it suggests a bed tailored for specific uses, such as off-road capabilities.
Toyota Land Cruisers
"...cks, boards. And they said, hey, we've got these Land Cruisers. Can you put something together for us?"
The Toyota Land Cruiser is a big, strong SUV that can handle tough roads and off-road adventures. It's also comfortable for families, making it a popular choice for those who like to travel.
The Toyota Land Cruiser is a full-size SUV known for its durability, off-road prowess, and luxury features. It has a long-standing reputation for reliability and is often discussed for its capability in harsh conditions and as a family vehicle.
Jeep Wrangler
"Yeah. We have an example right over here on the Wrangler. This is what we're talking about with a couple ..."
The Jeep Wrangler is a small SUV that is great for going off-road and exploring nature. It has a classic look and is popular with people who enjoy outdoor activities.
The Jeep Wrangler is a compact SUV recognized for its off-road capabilities and classic design. It is a favorite among outdoor enthusiasts and is often discussed for its versatility and ability to tackle challenging terrains.
Ford F150
"It's got a lift, kind of bigger wheels than I would put on it, but man, it makes a statement. Right next to it, there's an F-150 with a hell of a color scheme. Whoa, Andre."
The Ford F-150 is a very popular pickup truck that many people use for work and everyday tasks. It's known for being strong and able to carry a lot of stuff in the back.
The Ford F-150 is one of the best-selling pickup trucks in America, known for its versatility, performance, and range of configurations. It serves various needs, from work to recreation, making it a staple in the truck market.
Nissan Frontier
"...mps out at you the most right off the bat is this frontier. They've got no doors on it, they've got color m..."
The Nissan Frontier is a smaller truck that is tough and can handle work tasks easily. It's a good option for people who want a reliable vehicle without going for a full-size truck.
The Nissan Frontier is a midsize pickup truck known for its ruggedness and capability, often appealing to those who need a reliable workhorse. It has been praised for its value and off-road performance, making it a popular choice among truck buyers.
Nissan XTerra
"I'm not used to seeing an Nissan SUV with this kind of off-road capability and articulation, at least not recently. It's been since the X-Terra, really, here, that we've gotten to see stuff like this. So that's cool."
The Nissan XTerra is a tough SUV that was made for going off-road and exploring. Even though it's not made anymore, many people still like it for its strong design and outdoor abilities.
The Nissan XTerra is an SUV designed for off-road adventures, known for its rugged build and practical features. Although it has been discontinued, it remains popular among enthusiasts for its capability and distinctive styling.
Toyota 4Runner
"...the 4Runner, the Bronco, the Wrangler, and at least the 4Runner has a hybrid as well, right?"
The Toyota 4Runner is a tough SUV that can handle off-road adventures. It's popular for its durability and ability to go places other cars can't.
The Toyota 4Runner is a midsize SUV known for its off-road capabilities and rugged design. It has a strong following among outdoor enthusiasts and is often compared to other SUVs in its class.
Toyota Tundra
"...d, they've got the 3.4-liter twin-turbo V6 from a Tundra. Exactly. And a five-speed manual transmission."
The Toyota Tundra is a big truck that can carry heavy loads and is built to last. It's a good choice for people who need a strong vehicle for work or towing things.
The Toyota Tundra is a full-size pickup truck that combines power with reliability, featuring a robust engine and a spacious interior. It's often discussed for its towing capacity and off-road capabilities, appealing to those who need a dependable truck for heavy-duty tasks.
Toyota Tacoma
"... booth here that we did a video on. And it's the Tacoma H2 Overlander. This is very much a concept."
The Toyota Tacoma is a smaller truck that is good for both work and fun adventures. It's known for being tough and can handle rough roads well.
The Toyota Tacoma is a midsize pickup truck known for its off-road capabilities and reliability. It has a strong following among adventure seekers and is often highlighted for its versatility and durability in various conditions.
Honda Passport
"Yeah, this is obviously very extreme. It says passport on the back of it. But I don't think there's any..."
The Honda Passport is a roomy SUV that is great for families and trips. It has a lot of space inside and is good for driving on different types of roads.
The Honda Passport is a midsize SUV that offers a spacious interior and strong performance, designed for families and outdoor enthusiasts. It is often discussed for its practicality and comfort, making it a solid choice for those seeking versatility.
Shelby Raptor
"It says Shelby across the hood. And then on the top of the hood, we were looking yesterday. It's got a little raptor. It's going to be hard to see, but yeah, it says Raptor."
The Shelby Raptor is a special version of the Ford Raptor truck that is designed for better performance, especially off-road. It has unique features and a powerful engine that make it stand out.
The Shelby Raptor is a high-performance variant of the Ford Raptor, known for its off-road capabilities and powerful engine. It features distinctive styling elements, including the iconic Shelby branding.
Ford Crew Cab
"The body is a 65 Ford crew cap. So, this is the first year that Ford started doing factory crew caps."
The Ford Crew Cab is a type of truck that has extra space for passengers in the back. The 1965 model was special because it was the first year Ford made these trucks directly from the factory.
The Ford Crew Cab is a variant of the Ford truck that features an extended cab design, allowing for more passenger space. The 1965 model was notable for being the first year Ford introduced factory crew cabs, making it a significant part of their truck history.
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