This guide is a compiled list of the top-performing 2008-model year large pickups in J.D. Power and Associates’ key automotive research studies. The studies include the 2007 Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS), the 2007 Automotive Performance, Execution and Layout (APEAL) Study, and the 2007 Initial Quality Study (IQS). All models are listed alphabetically by manufacturer.
Chevrolet Avalanche: Combining elements of a pickup and an SUV, the Chevrolet Avalanche ranked among the top three large pickups in the 2007 APEAL study, which measures owners’ delight with their vehicle’s performance and design. Essentially an offshoot of Chevrolet’s big Suburban SUV, the Avalanche adds a folding midgate and a small cargo bed, making it equivalent to a crew cab pickup. For 2008, Chevrolet added standard curtain air bags to each model. Offered in three trim levels with a 5.3- or 6.0-liter V-8 engine, the Avalanche comes with rear-wheel drive (RWD) or 4-wheel drive (4WD). Electronic stability control is standard.
Get more information on the 2008 Chevrolet Avalanche
Chevrolet Silverado: Redesigned for 2007, the Chevrolet Silverado ranks among the top three models in the large pickup segment in the 2007 APEAL study. For 2008, Silverado models gained standard XM satellite radio, as well as a revised gauge cluster and seats. Silverado is similar to GMC’s Sierra series, offered in three cab styles with a V-6 engine or choice of three V-8 engines. Silverados come with RWD, 4WD, or all-wheel drive (AWD). Chevrolet has abandoned the Silverado Classic, which temporarily continued the prior design when the Silverado was redesigned.
Get more information on the 2008 Chevrolet Silverado
Ford F-150: A truck-buyer’s favorite for decades, the Ford F-150 ranked among the top three models in its segment in the 2007 IQS, which reflects high design quality as well as low numbers of defects and malfunctions during the first 90 days of ownership. Also in 2007, the F-150 ranked among the top three models in its segment in the 2007 VDS, which considers the number of problems original owners reported after three years of ownership. A factory-installed Cargo Management System is available for 2008, as is a rearview camera. A new XL Super Crew model has a Styleside cargo box, and a Lariat Limited package is available. A 450-hp supercharged V-8 engine goes into the new Chip Foose edition. Ford’s F-150 has been the top-selling model in the U.S. for over twenty consecutive years.
Get more information on the 2008 Ford F-150
GMC Sierra: Closely related to Chevrolet’s Silverado, the GMC Sierra earned a top ranking in its segment in the 2007 APEAL study. Sierra also ranked among the top three model in its segment in the 2007 IQS. A new All Terrain model for 2008 builds upon the Z71 Off Road package. XM satellite radio is now standard in all models, and 22-inch wheels are available. Three cab styles are offered, with a V-6 engine or choice of three V-8 engines.
Get more information on the 2008 GMC Sierra
Toyota Tundra: Launched early in 2007 amid a flurry of TV commercials portraying it as a burly,
potent competitor to traditional domestic-brand large pickups, the Toyota Tundra ranked highest in its segment in the 2007 VDS. Toyota added 13 Tundra versions for 2008, for a total of 44, increasing availability of Double Cab and CrewMax body styles. Selected models have gained standard equipment this year. Tundras may have a V-6 engine or a choice of two V-8 engines, topped by a 5.7-liter model that generates 381 hp.
