Eric Forrester Reunites With Taylor Hayes
Midweek drama hits Los Angeles on The Bold and the Beautiful. In Wednesday’s episode (September 18, 2024), Eric Forrester finally comes face-to-face with Taylor Hayes after her long absence. Their reunion at the Forrester mansion is heartfelt, with Taylor checking in on Eric’s well-being.
Although Eric has often favored Brooke and Ridge’s “Bridge” romance, Taylor’s return stirs up old feelings. Their conversation may start gently, but the undercurrent of Forrester family politics is impossible to ignore.
Taylor Raises Concerns About Hope
Taylor doesn’t waste much time before shifting the focus to her daughter, Steffy, and Hope Logan. With Hope’s choices under scrutiny, Taylor voices concern that Hope may not be on the right path. She also makes it clear that she disapproves of Brooke sharing leadership duties as co-CEO of Forrester Creations.
Eric listens respectfully, but fans know he rarely goes against Ridge’s business calls. Taylor’s warnings, however, could plant seeds of doubt, especially if family tensions continue to escalate.
Brooke Logan Confides in Finn
While Taylor is with Eric, Brooke turns to an unlikely ally. She confesses her worries to John “Finn” Finnegan. During their conversation, Brooke reveals Steffy’s ultimatum to Hope. She admits she doesn’t trust Steffy and fears that Steffy’s influence will upend Hope’s future.
Finn is caught off guard by Brooke’s openness. As Steffy’s husband, his loyalties are already tested. By pulling him into the drama, Brooke risks creating new fault lines in the Forrester family.
Trouble Brewing in Los Angeles
The midweek spoilers highlight a turning point. Taylor’s cautious warnings, Brooke’s surprising confession, and Eric’s role as the family anchor set the stage for bigger confrontations.
Key questions remain:
- Will Taylor’s words change Eric’s perspective?
- Can Brooke sway Finn against his wife?
- And how far will Steffy push in her battle with Hope?
As loyalties shift, the lives of the Forresters, Logans, and Spencers grow even more tangled. Wednesday’s episode promises tension, secrets, and the kind of high-stakes drama that keeps The Bold and the Beautiful fans hooked.
The Reigning Rigs: An Expert’s Look at the 10 Most Iconic Pickup Trucks Dominating the Global Stage in 2025
For over a decade, I’ve navigated the ever-evolving landscape of the automotive industry, with a particular passion for the heartbeat of American—and indeed, global—commerce and adventure: the pickup truck. These aren’t just vehicles; they’re the workhorses, the adventure enablers, and often, the ultimate expression of personal freedom. From bustling job sites to remote wilderness trails, the pickup truck’s unparalleled versatility, robust utility, and increasingly sophisticated technology continue to captivate buyers worldwide.
As we roll into 2025, the global truck market is more dynamic than ever. We’re witnessing a fascinating blend of electrification, advanced driver-assist systems, and a renewed focus on both luxury and rugged capability. While the American market often dictates trends for full-size pickups, the global stage offers a diverse array of mid-size and specialized trucks that have etched their names into automotive history. This deep dive isn’t just a list; it’s a testament to engineering prowess, market adaptability, and enduring appeal. Let’s unhitch our biases and explore the top 10 most iconic pickup trucks that truly define the global landscape, as seen through the eyes of a seasoned truck enthusiast.
Toyota Tundra: The Unflappable Contender
When discussing full-size pickup trucks in the highly competitive North American market, the Toyota Tundra might sit further down the sales charts than its domestic rivals, but its global reputation, particularly for unrivaled reliability and robust construction, places it firmly among the iconic. For 2025, the Tundra continues to solidify its modern identity, moving further away from its V8 past with a refined focus on its powerful twin-turbo V6 and hybrid i-Force MAX powertrain. This setup delivers impressive performance figures, making it a compelling choice for those prioritizing fuel efficiency without sacrificing significant towing capacity or payload.
The 2025 Tundra maintains its aggressive styling and a comfortable, technology-rich interior that makes it a true dual-purpose vehicle: capable on the job site and refined enough for daily commutes or family road trips. Its frame-up redesign in recent years brought much-needed updates to its infotainment and safety features, positioning it as a premium pickup truck option. While it might not lead in raw sales volume against the Ford F-Series or Chevrolet Silverado, its loyal customer base, often citing the truck’s low maintenance costs and exceptional resale value, ensures its continued prominence. The Tundra’s slow but steady rise in popularity, especially with the hybrid option gaining traction among environmentally conscious buyers, confirms its place as a formidable and future-proof full-size contender.
GWM POER: China’s Global Ambition
Stepping away from the traditional stalwarts, the GWM POER (or P Series) represents a significant shift in the global pickup truck market. Hailing from Great Wall Motors in China, the POER has rapidly expanded its footprint across Asia, Australia, and parts of Europe, becoming a truly iconic model in emerging markets. Its diverse offerings—passenger, commercial, and off-road variants—highlight its versatility and adaptability to varied customer needs. From a US expert’s perspective, while not directly available here, the POER’s global impact is undeniable, showcasing how robust, value-driven trucks can capture significant market share.
The POER’s appeal lies in its combination of modern design, comprehensive features, and competitive pricing. For 2025, GWM continues to refine its powertrain options, including advanced diesel and gasoline engines, and crucially, an increasing focus on electrification for future models, mirroring global trends. The GWM POER off-road variant, in particular, with its optional triple differential locks, demonstrates a serious commitment to capability that rivals more established players. It caters to a segment looking for a rugged, dependable, and feature-packed truck without the premium price tag often associated with Japanese or American brands. Its presence on this list underscores the evolving global dynamics and the emergence of new power players in the truck manufacturing landscape.
Ford Maverick: The Game-Changing Compact
Ford’s ingenuity shines brightly with the Maverick, a compact hybrid pickup truck that has successfully carved out a unique niche in the US market and beyond since its 2021 debut. For 2025, the Maverick continues its remarkable run as an incredibly affordable, fuel-efficient truck that appeals to a new generation of truck buyers who might not need the immense capabilities of a full-size rig. Its unibody construction, sharing a platform with Ford’s Bronco Sport and Escape, delivers a car-like ride quality and handling, making it an excellent daily driver.
While its dimensions are notably smaller (around 5,073 mm in length) compared to the behemoths higher on this list, the Maverick’s ingenious FlexBed system and surprisingly ample interior space make it incredibly practical. The standard hybrid powertrain offers phenomenal gas mileage for a pickup, a crucial factor for many consumers in 2025 facing fluctuating fuel prices. The available EcoBoost engine provides more power for those who need it, but the hybrid remains its standout feature. The Maverick has democratized the pickup truck, making ownership accessible and appealing to urban dwellers, weekend warriors, and those seeking a versatile utility vehicle without the typical truck footprint or premium truck pricing. Its impact is iconic because it reshaped expectations for what a pickup could be, and for that, it earns its place.
Isuzu D-MAX: The Undisputed Workhorse of Asia-Pacific
The Isuzu D-MAX might not be a common sight on North American roads, but globally, particularly across Australia, Southeast Asia, and Africa, it stands as an absolute titan. First introduced in 2002, the D-MAX has cemented its reputation as an indestructible work truck—a badge of honor for anyone who truly pushes their vehicles to the limit. For 2025, the D-MAX continues to evolve, offering a blend of rugged capability and increasing creature comforts, reflecting the diverse needs of its vast customer base.
Known for its bulletproof diesel engines, the D-MAX delivers exceptional commercial truck performance and remarkable diesel truck efficiency. Its appeal lies in its simplicity, durability, and low running costs, making it a favorite for fleet operators, tradespeople, and rural communities. While market share might fluctuate in some regions, its core strength as a reliable and capable vehicle remains unchallenged. Recent iterations have seen significant improvements in safety technology and interior refinement, without compromising its core utilitarian DNA. The D-MAX’s iconic status is built on its unwavering ability to tackle the toughest jobs and harshest conditions, making it an essential tool for countless businesses and individuals across the globe.
Ford Ranger: The Mid-Size Master
The Ford Ranger occupies a critical segment in the global truck market: the mid-size pickup. After a brief hiatus from the North American market, its return was met with enthusiasm, solidifying its standing as a truly global player. Often dubbed the “mini F-150,” the Ranger skillfully balances substantial towing and hauling capabilities with a more manageable footprint than its full-size brethren. For 2025, the Ranger continues to impress with its rugged good looks, a significantly upgraded interior, and a strong emphasis on smart technology.
Under the hood, the Ranger typically offers robust gasoline and diesel engine options, providing ample power for both work and play. The new generation, specifically, boasts improved off-road prowess and a more refined ride, enhancing its appeal across diverse user groups. It’s a truck that can comfortably navigate tight city streets during the week and confidently conquer challenging trails on the weekend. The Ford Ranger Raptor, a high-performance off-road variant, has further amplified its iconic status, showcasing the brand’s commitment to pushing performance boundaries in the mid-size segment. For businesses, outdoor enthusiasts, or those who simply find full-size trucks too cumbersome, the Ranger provides a perfect blend of utility, comfort, and Ford’s legendary truck DNA. Its versatility and global presence make it a perennial favorite.
Ram 1500: The Benchmark of Luxury and Comfort
In the fiercely competitive full-size pickup truck market, the Ram 1500 has, in recent years, meticulously carved out a reputation as the segment’s luxury leader without sacrificing an ounce of capability. Dating back to 1981, when it first broke away as its own distinct brand from Dodge, Ram has consistently innovated. For 2025, the Ram 1500 continues to set benchmarks in interior design, ride comfort, and technological integration, making it a standout choice for those seeking a premium truck experience.
What truly sets the Ram 1500 apart is its class-exclusive multi-link coil-spring rear suspension (or optional air suspension), which delivers a ride quality unparalleled by leaf-sprung competitors. This translates into a smoother, more composed journey, whether empty or laden with heavy payloads. The interior is arguably the best in the business, offering luxury pickup interiors with high-quality materials, sophisticated design, and cutting-edge infotainment systems, including massive vertical touchscreens. Powertrain options are diverse, from the efficient Pentastar V6, the legendary HEMI V8, and increasingly, the groundbreaking Ram 1500 REV electric truck coming online, signaling Ram’s commitment to future innovation. The Ram 1500 isn’t just a truck; it’s a statement, offering a blend of brute strength, refined comfort, and advanced features that appeal to a wide array of discerning buyers, from contractors to families.
GMC Sierra: The Professional Grade Performer
GMC has long positioned itself as the “Professional Grade” arm of General Motors, and the Sierra full-size pickup embodies this ethos perfectly. Sharing its fundamental architecture with the Chevrolet Silverado, the GMC Sierra differentiates itself through a more refined design, upscale appointments, and often, exclusive features that appeal to a more discerning buyer. For 2025, the Sierra continues to push the boundaries of luxury and capability, making it a highly desirable option for those who demand both rugged performance and sophisticated comfort.
The Sierra offers a comprehensive range of powerful engine options, including robust gasoline V8s and efficient Duramax diesel engines, all typically paired with smooth 10-speed automatic transmissions. Its advanced trailering technologies and innovative features like the multi-function MultiPro Tailgate enhance its utility, making it a favorite for those who tow heavy loads or frequently use their truck for work. The Denali and Denali Ultimate trims elevate the Sierra into true luxury territory, rivaling some premium SUVs with their exquisite materials, advanced infotainment, and cutting-edge driver-assistance systems. Furthermore, the GMC Sierra AT4 and AT4X variants deliver serious off-road truck upgrades and capabilities, catering to adventurers who demand exceptional performance when the pavement ends. The Sierra’s iconic status stems from its ability to flawlessly blend heavy-duty performance with an upscale experience, truly living up to its “Professional Grade” moniker.
Toyota Hilux: The Indestructible Legend
If there’s one pickup truck that universally symbolizes unwavering durability and go-anywhere capability, it’s the Toyota Hilux. Launched way back in 1968, the Hilux isn’t sold in North America (where the Tacoma holds court), but its global dominance, particularly in Australia, Africa, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia, is legendary. It’s the truck of choice for NGOs, expedition teams, farmers, and anyone who absolutely depends on their vehicle to perform in the harshest conditions imaginable. For 2025, the Hilux continues its legacy of rugged reliability while incrementally adopting modern technologies and improved comfort.
The Hilux’s iconic status isn’t built on cutting-edge luxury or record-breaking power, but rather on its reputation for being virtually indestructible. Its proven diesel powertrains are known for their longevity and efficiency, crucial factors in the remote and challenging environments where the Hilux thrives. While traditionally more utilitarian, newer generations have seen a significant upgrade in interior quality, safety features, and infotainment systems, balancing its workhorse nature with modern demands. Rumors of a Hilux hybrid in development for 2025 further signal Toyota’s commitment to keeping this legend relevant. The Hilux is more than just a truck; it’s a global icon of resilience, a testament to Toyota’s engineering philosophy of quality, durability, and reliability that is cherished by millions around the world.
Chevrolet Silverado: America’s Enduring Challenger
The Chevrolet Silverado, with its deep roots in American truck manufacturing stretching back to 1918, stands as a formidable competitor in the full-size segment. It’s a quintessential American pickup truck, known for its powerful engine options, diverse configurations, and consistent innovation. For 2025, the Silverado continues to evolve, offering a compelling blend of traditional strength with modern technology and improved efficiency, directly challenging its arch-rival, the Ford F-Series.
The Silverado’s strength lies in its wide array of powertrain choices, including powerful V8 gasoline engines, a strong turbo-diesel option, and increasingly, the groundbreaking Chevrolet Silverado EV. This all-electric variant represents a bold step into the future, promising impressive range, towing capacity, and innovative features for the electric truck market. The traditional Silverado excels in providing robust towing and hauling capabilities, making it a popular choice for contractors, farmers, and families alike. Its comfortable interior, user-friendly infotainment, and comprehensive suite of safety features contribute to its appeal. The Silverado also boasts a lower starting price than some competitors, making it an attractive option for value-conscious buyers seeking a powerful and reliable full-size truck. From the basic work truck to the luxurious High Country or the off-road ready ZR2, the Silverado consistently delivers on its promise of powerful performance and versatility, securing its place as an enduring icon.
Ford F-Series: The Undisputed King of Trucks
There’s simply no debating it: the Ford F-Series reigns supreme as the world’s most iconic and best-selling pickup truck for decades running. It’s more than just a vehicle; it’s a cultural phenomenon, a backbone of commerce, and a symbol of American ingenuity. From the F-150 that dominates personal and light-duty commercial use to the heavy-duty F-250, F-350, and beyond, the F-Series ecosystem is unparalleled in its breadth and capability. For 2025, Ford continues to innovate, ensuring the F-Series remains at the absolute forefront of the global truck market.
The Ford F-150, in particular, sets the standard for the full-size segment, offering an incredible array of engine options, including powerful V8s, efficient EcoBoost V6s, a robust PowerBoost hybrid, and the revolutionary Ford F-150 Lightning electric truck. The Lightning’s instant torque, impressive range, and innovative features like Pro Power Onboard have redefined what an electric truck can do, appealing to a new generation of buyers and commercial fleet vehicles. Beyond the powertrain, the F-Series offers cutting-edge technology, luxurious interiors in higher trims, and innovative features like the Pro Trailer Backup Assist and Onboard Scales. The Ford F-150 Raptor, a high-performance off-road beast, further cements the F-Series’ legendary status, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible off the beaten path. Its sheer sales volume, brand loyalty, continuous innovation, and adaptable nature across so many segments and markets make the Ford F-Series not just a leader, but a truly iconic global benchmark against which all other trucks are measured. Its legacy is unmatched, and its future looks equally dominant.
The Road Ahead for Iconic Pickups
The world of pickup trucks in 2025 is a vibrant, competitive arena, where traditional powerhouses battle new innovators for supremacy. Each of these ten iconic trucks, whether a global workhorse or a domestic luxury liner, showcases unique strengths, advanced engineering, and an enduring appeal that resonates with drivers across continents. The evolution towards electrification, enhanced safety features, and increasingly intelligent design points to an exciting future for these indispensable vehicles.
Are you ready to experience the power, versatility, and cutting-edge technology that these iconic trucks offer? Whether you’re seeking a rugged companion for the toughest jobs, a luxurious ride for daily adventures, or an efficient solution for a changing world, there’s an iconic truck waiting to exceed your expectations. Explore the latest 2025 models, compare their class-leading features, and find the perfect rig to drive your ambitions forward today.
