Driving through Texas is nothing like driving through California. Nor do those who live among snowy mountains buy the same vehicles as those who spend hours trapped in urban traffic.

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And precisely that is reflected in the new map of car sales by state in the United States, a fairly precise x-ray of how the tastes of millions of drivers are changing.

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Giant pickups continue to rule in much of the country, especially in rural regions or regions linked to heavy work. But at the same time, compact and hybrid SUVs are advancing at full speed and are beginning to capture markets that previously seemed impossible for this type of vehicle.

The result is a much more divided scenario than a few years ago. There is no longer a single absolute king. Now each region has its own favorite and that reveals how the American automotive market is evolving.

The Ford F-150 continues to be the queen of pickups

The Ford F-150 continues to dominate much of the North American map. States such as Texas, Oklahoma, Kansas, Montana or Wyoming continue to rely on large, resistant trucks prepared for long distances or demanding tasks.

Ford's pickup maintains a huge advantage thanks to its variety of configurations, load capacities and a very wide mechanical offering. In addition, the brand managed to modernize the model with more technology and hybrid options without losing the essence that always made it strong.

In places where the vehicle is part of the daily work, the F-150 remains almost a natural choice. That is why it continues to lead in much of the center and south of the country.

Compact SUVs are gaining more and more ground

While pickup trucks remain strong in rural areas, compact SUVs are consolidating in more urban states or where fuel consumption weighs much more in the purchasing decision.

The Toyota RAV4 is probably the best example. The Japanese SUV dominates in states like California, Washington, Oregon and Hawaii thanks to a formula that is very difficult to match. It has family space, low consumption and hybrid versions that attract those who still do not want to make the definitive leap to an electric car.

Honda is also taking advantage of this change in trend. The CR-V appears as the leader in several northeastern states, including New York, New Jersey and Pennsylvania.

Many buyers look for comfortable vehicles for everyday use, easy to park and with more reasonable operating costs than a large pickup truck. That's where models like the RAV4 and CR-V are making important differences.

Tesla begins to break traditional dominance

A few years ago it seemed impossible to imagine an electric car leading sales outside of California. That has already changed.

The Tesla Model Y managed to become the best-selling vehicle in states like Colorado and Utah, a fairly clear sign of how electric vehicles are beginning to gain ground in different regions of the country.

Tesla continues to rely on its fast charging network, competitive autonomy and a very strong technological image among young buyers. The growth is still far from dethroning pickup trucks in domestic volume, but it does demonstrate that the U.S. market is transforming faster than expected.

Chevrolet, Ram and Subaru maintain their strengths

Chevrolet Silverado 1500 continues to be a strong reference in states like Florida, Nevada and Arizona. The formula is quite similar to Ford's, with powerful engines, off-road versions and an approach closely linked to work and adventure.

Ram also retains a very strong base, especially in Illinois and Michigan, where many buyers value the Ram 1500's ride comfort and interior quality over rival pickup trucks.

Subaru, for its part, maintains a very special connection with mountainous regions and areas with complicated climates. Models like the Crosstrek continue to perform especially well thanks to all-wheel drive and its good reputation on snow and rough roads.

The map reflects an increasingly divided market

The big message this map leaves is quite simple. The United States no longer revolves solely around traditional pickups.

Efficient SUVs are growing, hybrids are multiplying and electric vehicles are beginning to occupy territories where they previously had no relevance. Even so, full-size trucks remain essential in much of the country.

That contrast is precisely what is most interesting about the US market. While some drivers prioritize electric autonomy and low consumption, others continue to opt for large engines and cargo capacity.