What the 2018 Motor Trend Truck of the Year Was and Is
Every year, Motor Trend names a Motor Trend Truck of the Year to recognize the pickup or SUV that best combines capability, efficiency, value, and everyday usability. The 2018 award signaled a shift toward modern powertrains, refined comfort, and technology-forward design in the truck segment. For buyers, the title served as a practical guide in a class where towing, hauling, fuel economy, and resale value matter more than headline-grabbing horsepower alone.
Criteria Used to Judge the 2018 Motor Trend Truck of the Year
Motor Trend evaluates trucks on multiple dimensions, not just peak power or towing capacity. Common criteria include:
- Driving dynamics and on-road manners
- Off-road capability when applicable
- Fuel efficiency and real-world usability
- Value, features, and cabin comfort
- Technology, safety, and infotainment
- Daily drivability and long-term ownership appeal
These factors reflect how most owners actually use their trucks: for commutes, road trips, work tasks, and family life. The award aims to balance performance with practicality.
Test Process and Conditions
Motor Trend typically subjects contenders to thousands of miles of varied driving, including city streets, highways, and backroads. Test crews evaluate noise, vibration, smoothness, visibility, parking ease, and ergonomics. The process is repeatable and comparative, designed to highlight meaningful differences rather than momentary impressions.
The 2018 Winner: Chevrolet Colorado ZR2
The 2018 Motor Trend Truck of the Year was the Chevrolet Colorado ZR2, a midsize pickup focused on off-road ability without sacrificing daily usability. The decision underscored a growing interest in trucks that can handle serious terrain while remaining competent on pavement. The ZR2 highlighted how specialized capability can broaden a truck’s appeal beyond traditional work or family buyers.
Key Specifications and Features
| Specification | Detail | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Platform | Midsize pickup | Based on GMT T1XX platform |
| Engine | 2.8L Duramax diesel (optional) | Strong low-end torque for off-road use |
| Drivetrain | Available 4WD with Multi-Mission Select System | Off-road modes and settings |
| Cab configurations | Regular and extended cab | Flexibility for different needs |
| Towing capacity | Up to ~7,700 lb | Impressive for segment |
| Notable tech | Available head-up display, trailering aids | Aimed at both work and leisure use |
Comparison with Other Contenders in 2018
Several strong trucks were contenders, including the Ram 1500, Ford F-150, Nissan Titan, and Toyota Tundra. Each offered distinct strengths:
- Ram 1500: Class-leading comfort and mild-hybrid efficiency
- Ford F-150: High sales volume, aluminum-intensive construction, broad trim range
- Nissan Titan: Bold styling and competitive pricing
- Toyota Tundra: Proven reliability and strong resale value
Motor Trend ultimately chose the Colorado ZR2 for its focused, capability-first approach, while other picks addressed different priorities such as comfort, efficiency, or value.
What the Award Meant for Buyers
For mainstream shoppers, the Motor Trend Truck of the Year label often points toward balanced engineering, segment-appropriate features, and strong ownership experience. The 2018 Colorado ZR2 appealed to adventure seekers, small businesses, and DIY enthusiasts who wanted a truck that was at home on hiking trails yet manageable in urban settings. However, buyers prioritizing maximum towing, lowest fuel use, or premium interiors might have found other trucks better aligned with those goals.
Practical Considerations Before Choosing
- Intended use: daily driving vs. occasional heavy hauling or off-road trips
- Payload and towing needs relative to cabin and bed size
- Fuel economy and ownership costs
- Technology, safety features, and warranty coverage
- Resale value and brand service network proximity
Long-Term Impact and Industry Influence
The 2018 award highlighted the growing importance of off-road-oriented midsize trucks. Manufacturers responded with more available four-wheel-drive systems, terrain modes, and adventure-focused trims across segments. At the same time, mainstream buyers gained a clearer benchmark for comparing comfort, technology, and capability in a crowded market.
Wrap-Up: Is the 2018 Winner Still Relevant Today?
The Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 remains a notable truck for buyers who value off-road hardware combined with daily usability. While newer generations and competing models have introduced updated powertrains and technology, the 2018 Motor Trend Truck of the Year selection continues to illustrate how targeted capability can broaden a truck’s appeal beyond traditional work or family buyers.
Tags: motor trend truck of the year 2018, chevrolet colorado zr2, truck awards analysis