Top-Selling Class 8 Trucks in the U.S.

The Top-Selling Class 8 Trucks in the U.S.

The top-selling Class 8 trucks in the U.S. are dominated by major manufacturers that include Freightliner, Peterbilt, Kenworth, Volvo, International, Mack and Western Star. Below is a list of the seven best-selling models, based on industry trends and recent sales data:

1. Freightliner Cascadia

The Freightliner Cascadia, now in its 5th generation, continues to lead the list of best-selling Class 8 trucks in the U.S. With an aggressive and aerodynamic front end, the 5th-generation Cascadia is both fuel-efficient and attractive, available in both day cab and sleeper formats.

If you’ve ever driven or even sat in the cab of a Cascadia, you’ll notice that it is highly driver-focused. Add in its fuel efficiency, advanced technology, and a wide range of safety features, and it’s easy to understand why the Cascadia is a favorite among operators of both large and small fleets. This Class 8 heavy duty truck excels in both long-haul and short-haul spaces.

For detailed manufacture information: Cascadia

Freightliner Cascadia Specs Overview:

• Horsepower: 370 – 605
• Engines: Detroit and Cummins
• Manual Transmissions: Detroit or Eaton
• Automatic Transmission: Allison

Standard Safety Features:

• Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) to 0 MPH
• Side Guard Assist 2 (SGA2)
• Front Guard Alert (FGA)
• Lane Departure Warning
• Traffic Sign Display
• Tailgate Warning
• Forward-Facing Camera
• Automatic Wipers/Headlamps
• Intelligent High Beam

Vocation: Primarily used for short-haul and long-haul highway trucking, with occasional use in construction and agriculture.

2. Kenworth T680

The Kenworth T680 is another popular choice known for its fuel efficiency, advanced technology, and aerodynamics.

The highly customizable T680 offers owners the ability to build a truck that meets their specific needs and personal style.

Ergonomically designed, the T680 helps drivers reduce fatigue, enhancing their overall driving experience. The next-generation smart wheel and digital dashboard allow truckers to stay focused on the road, improving safety for everyone.

For detailed manufacture information: Kenworth T680

Kenworth T680 Specs Overview:

• Horsepower: 355 – 510
• Engines: Paccar MX-13 or MX-11
• Transmission: PACCAR TX-12 Automated

Standard Safety Features:

• Digital Mirrors
• 15” Digital Display
• Next Gen Steering Wheel
• Adaptive Cruise Control
• Collision Mitigation
• Side Object Detection
• Lane Departure Warning

Vocation: Mostly used for short-haul and long-haul highway trucking, with occasional use in construction and agriculture.

3. Peterbilt 579

The Peterbilt 579 is the brand’s most popular Class 8 truck for a reason. Drivers appreciate its comfort, while owners value its reliability and fuel efficiency.

Similar to the Freightliner Cascadia and Kenworth T680, the 579’s aerodynamic design in both day cab and sleeper formats has cemented its position as a top seller in the Class 8 market.

The model 579 is popular as an over the road sleeper and in the day cab delivery space, the Pete 579 is often used for vocational applications for hauling aggregate or pulling a tanker.

For detailed manufacture information: Peterbilt 579

Peterbilt 579 Specs Overview:

• Horsepower: 380 – 605
• Engines: Paccar MX and Cummins ISX
• Manual Transmission: Eaton
• Automated Transmissions: Paccar TX, Endurant, Eaton Ultrashift

Standard Safety Features:

• Enhanced Collision Mitigation
• Fusion Stop & Auto-Go™
• Highway Lane Departure Braking
• Multi-Lane Emergency Braking
• Stationary Vehicle Braking

Vocation: Primarily used for short-haul and long-haul highway trucking, with occasional use in construction and agriculture.

4. Volvo VNL Series

The redesigned Volvo VNL Series boasts improved aerodynamics and styling. Known for its smooth handling, the new Volvo VNL has increased its fuel efficiency by 10%, all while upgrading its appearance and the driver experience.

With upgrades to suspension, a stalk-mounted shifter, and new seat controls, the VNL gives drivers more control and comfort. Those who purchase a sleeper will also notice upgrades in both livability and work space.

For detailed manufacture information: Volvo VNL Series

Volvo VNL Series Specs Overview:

• Horsepower: 380 – 605
• Engines: Volvo D11, D13, and D13TC
• Manual Transmission: Eaton
• Automated Transmissions: I-Shift

Standard Safety Features:

• Adaptive Cruise Control
• Forward Collision Avoidance
• Pedestrian Detection
• Active Driver Assist
• Blind Spot Detection

Vocation: Primarily used for short-haul and long-haul highway trucking, with occasional use in construction and agriculture.

5. International LT Series

Designed with drivers in mind, the International LT Series offers a wide range of cabs, including day cab, low-rise, hi-rise, and sky-rise configurations.

While not as technology-driven as some of its competitors, the LT Series still delivers strong performance, comfort, and safety.

For long-haul drivers, the LT Series sleeper cabs provide spacious layouts, excellent visibility, and a smooth ride. The day cabs are maneuverable, making them ideal for city driving.

For detailed manufacture information: International LT Series

International LT Series Specs Overview:

• Horsepower: 400 – 565
• Engines: International S13 and Cummins X15
• Manual Transmission: Eaton
• Automated Transmissions: Eaton Endurant, Eaton Ultrashift

Standard Safety Features:

• Adaptive Cruise Control
• Lane Departure Warning
• Over-Speed Alert
• Stationary Vehicle Braking

Vocation: Mainly used for local and long-haul deliveries.

6. Mack Anthem

When you think of Mack, you think of heavy-duty vocational trucks designed for tough jobs. The Mack Anthem, with its sloped hood and modern aerodynamics, still incorporates the signature Mack toughness with a touch of style.

Available in both day cab and sleeper formats, the Mack Anthem is used for highway applications but is also a favorite in vocational roles.

Mack now offers you a live tour, where prospective buyers can take a video walk around with a Mack specialist. This allows you to see a build as well as the ability to ask questions and receive immediate feedback.

For detailed manufacture information: Mack Anthem

Mack Anthem Specs Overview:

• Horsepower: 345 – 505
• Cab Options: Day Cab, 70” Stand-Up Sleeper, 48” Flat Top
• Engines: Mack MP Series and Cummins (natural gas)
• Manual Transmission: Eaton
• Automated Transmissions: MDrive Automated Manual, Allison Automatic, Eaton Manual

Standard Safety Features:

• Oversized Mirrors
• Collision Avoidance
• Command Steer Driver Assistance

7. Western Star 49X

The Western Star 49X is a versatile vocational truck that has quickly become a top-selling model. Designed for off-road and highway applications, the 49X is tough, safe, and reliable.

The X-Series was built with truck equipment manufacturers in mind, offering easy body installation for a variety of applications, including dump trucks, cranes, and mixers.

For detailed manufacture information: Western Star 49X

Western Star 49X Specs Overview: Cab Options: Day Cab, Sleeper

• Horsepower: 350 – 600
• Engines: Detroit and Cummins
• Manual Transmission: Eaton
• Automated Transmissions: Detroit (automated manual), Eaton Endurant, Allison

Standard Safety Features:

• Active Brake Assist 5
• Side Guard Assist
• Adaptive Cruise Control to 0 MPH
• Dual-Stage Intelligent Headlights