Long-distance driving demands more than just a powerful engine and a big bed. You need comfort, reliability, and a cabin that won’t leave you aching after hours on the highway. But not all trucks deliver on these promises. Some models that excel at hauling cargo or conquering trails fall flat when it comes to extended road trips. If you’re planning cross-country adventures or regular long commutes, certain trucks will turn your journey into an endurance test. Here are five trucks you should avoid for long-distance travel, based on reliability data, comfort issues, and real-world owner experiences.
1. Jeep Gladiator: The Rough Rider
The Jeep Gladiator looks tough and handles off-road trails like a champ. But highway comfort? That’s a different story. This truck suffers from a jarring ride quality that becomes exhausting on long drives. The short wheelbase and stiff suspension transmit every bump directly to your spine. Wind noise is relentless at highway speeds, thanks to the removable doors and roof design.
The seats lack proper lumbar support and contouring. After an hour behind the wheel, you’ll feel pressure points in your lower back and tailbone. Taller drivers sit too close to the dashboard, while shorter drivers struggle with pedal reach. The steering wheel offers limited adjustability, forcing awkward arm positions. According to reliability data, the Gladiator has a history of multiple reliability issues, making it a risky choice for long-distance travel. With an MSRP ranging from $39,790 to $64,890, it’s also hideously overpriced for what you get.
2. Toyota Tacoma (Pre-2024 Models): The Back Breaker
The Tacoma has earned praise for off-road capability and reliability over the years. But older models have a glaring flaw: an uncomfortable driving position. Pre-2024 Tacomas force drivers into a “sit-on-the-floor” posture due to low seat mounting. Your legs stretch forward at an awkward angle, placing unnecessary pressure on your hips and thighs.
The seats are flat and firm with almost no lumbar support. Your spine gets no help in maintaining proper alignment. On extended drives, this leads to aching backs, sore shoulders, and restless legs. Drivers over six feet tall face minimal legroom and tight pedal angles that increase foot fatigue. The steering wheel has very limited telescoping movement, restricting how far back you can sit without overextending your arms. While the 2024 refresh addressed many issues, millions of older Tacomas on the road continue to provide one of the least comfortable experiences in the midsize truck segment.
3. Chevrolet Silverado 1500 (V-8 Models): The Unreliable Workhorse
The Silverado 1500 offers impressive capability and a refreshed interior. But reliability concerns make it a risky choice for long-distance travel. The V-8 engines have created serious problems for owners. At the time of this writing, the 6.2-liter V-8 is under a nationwide stop sale for engine failure concerns. This is the beginning of a large recall affecting tens of thousands of owners.
There have also been concerns over lifter issues with V-8 engines. Consumer Reports members have reported a range of electrical issues, including problems with lights, gauges, USB ports, and automatic headlights. Seat comfort is abysmally poor, with many drivers complaining about inadequate support on long drives. Some trims lack a two-speed transfer case, instead offering only a terrain mode. When you’re hundreds of miles from home, the last thing you want is an engine failure or electrical gremlins. With an expected MSRP range of $40,000 to $90,000, you deserve better reliability.
4. Ram 1500 (2025 Models): The Complicated Cruiser
The Ram 1500 has undergone significant changes for 2025, and not all of them are beneficial for long-distance travel. The 5.7-liter V-8 Hemi engine has been replaced by the new 3.0-liter inline-6 twin-turbocharged Hurricane engine. While powerful, this engine has had its share of issues. Online forums report owners experiencing melted catalytic converters, especially in the RHO trim.
Consumer Reports states its members found many issues with in-car electronics not working right. Cameras, audio systems, and GPS have been problematic. The Ram has a checkered history on reliability and the worst resale value in its class. While the styling is attractive and the Hurricane high-output rips with 540 horsepower, these problems can leave you stranded on a long trip. The lackluster exhaust note from the new engines also takes away from the driving experience. With an MSRP ranging from $42,270 to $89,070, you’re paying premium prices for questionable reliability.
5. Ford F-150 PowerBoost Hybrid: The Troubled Hybrid
The F-150 is America’s best-selling truck for good reason. It offers class-leading towing, payload capacities, and useful technology. But the PowerBoost hybrid version has serious reliability concerns. Consumer Reports gave the PowerBoost a rating of 1 out of 5, taking the unusual step to break this out from the rest of the F-150 lineup.
Members have reported a variety of in-car electronic issues. The 10-speed automatic transmission has been dogged with problems. Engine reliability concerns include turbo and cam phaser issues. While the PowerBoost offers the fan-favorite on-board power system and impressive fuel economy, these reliability problems make it a poor choice for long-distance travel. You don’t want to be stuck on the side of the highway with a hybrid system failure. The non-hybrid F-150 models score better for reliability, but the PowerBoost specifically should be avoided for extended road trips.
Think Beyond the Brochure
Trucks have gotten more expensive and complex. Repair costs have skyrocketed thanks to their technology. When planning long-distance travel, reliability and comfort are more important than horsepower or towing capacity. These five trucks might look great in the showroom, but they’ll leave you sore, frustrated, or stranded on the open road.
Before committing to a truck for long-distance travel, take an extended test drive. Pay attention to seat comfort, noise levels, and driving position—research reliability ratings from multiple sources. And remember: the best truck for long-distance travel is one that gets you there comfortably and reliably, not one that looks tough in your driveway.
What’s your experience with long-distance truck travel? Have you owned any of these models and found them uncomfortable or unreliable on extended trips?
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The post Consumer Reports: The 5 Worst Trucks for Long-Distance Travel appeared first on Clever Dude Personal Finance & Money.
