Key Takeaways
- The cheapest trucks include models made by U.S. and foreign automakers.
- Towing capacity, gas mileage, safety features and performance are key considerations when comparing trucks.
- Comparing online and in-dealership prices can help you save money when buying a truck.
Due to inflation and limited demand, prices for new vehicles are at an all-time high, but that doesn’t have to deter you from shopping for a new vehicle. Despite higher prices, many trucks remain affordable. Read on to discover some of the cheapest trucks you can purchase for work or personal use, so you know what models to focus on to stick to your budget.
2023 Nissan Titan
Boasting a 400-hp, V8 engine as a standard feature, the 2023 Nissan Titan doesn’t require you to upgrade to get a powerful vehicle. Despite its rugged build, the 2023 version of the truck first released in 2004 has a comfortable, quiet cabin. The starting price for the vehicle is $39,700, and the base model comes with many standard features, along with an eiight-inch touchscreen infotainment system and automated emergency braking.
Although other trucks beat the Titan in terms of towing capacity, the truck can haul at least 9,240 pounds, which is more than adequate for many tasks. Nissan also offers one of the best limited warranties around, with coverage for five years or 100,000 miles
Source: Nissan2023 Toyota Tundra
Capable of towing up to 12,000 pounds, the 2023 Toyota Tundra is ready to work. At the same time, its advanced rear coil-spring suspension means you enjoy a smooth, comfortable ride on difficult terrain. The base model includes a 12-inch infotainment system with limited connectivity, but you can upgrade it to a massive 14-inch screen and get a Wi-Fi hotspot by paying a little more than the starting price of $36,965.
Toyota provides free maintenance for 25,000 miles or the first 2 years, reducing upkeep costs. For safety, the Tundra includes a host of standard features, including automated emergency braking, lane departure warning, forward collision warning and lane keeping assistance.
Source: Toyota2023 Jeep Gladiator
First released in 1962, the Jeep Gladiator remains the only convertible truck on the market to this day. Its four-wheel drive capability and best-in-class 442-pound-per-foot torque make the 2023 Jeep Gladiator a great pick for anyone who wants to travel off-road and needs a bed for stashing gear.
If you’re transporting passengers, the back seat provides more legroom and space than most competitors. A relatively low 7,700-pound towing capacity means the truck is better suited for recreation than work. However, its price of $38,305 is accessible for those who need a vehicle for weekend adventuring.
Source: Jeep2023 Honda Ridgeline
For those who need the cargo space of a truck but prefer the ride of an SUV, the 2023 Honda Ridgeline provides a compromise. The truck is one of only a few on the market to feature unibody construction with no separate frame. With this innovative design, the Ridgeline offers easy handling and a smooth ride, which has made the Honda Pilot SUV a top seller.
At the same time, the Ridgeline gives you ample storage space with a five-foot bed in the back, as well as a lockable in-bed trunk for valuables. The base starting price of $38,800 includes all-wheel drive, making the pickup ready for inclement weather.
Source: Honda2023 Ram 1500
Since 1981, the Ram 1500 has been one of the most popular trucks in the U.S. The 2023 edition continues to deliver impressive performance with a 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 engine. Safety features, such as electronic stability control, electronic roll mitigation, blind spot monitoring and rear cross path detection, give you peace of mind on the road.
The optional Digital Cluster includes a wealth of high-tech features, such as turn-by-turn navigation, windshield speed display and a 12-inch touchscreen infotainment system. The starting price of the full-size truck is $37,410, but the model is highly customizable, with most special features requiring upcharges.
Source: Ram2023 Nissan Frontier
For 2023, Nissan has made considerable improvements to its midsize Frontier, which debuted in 1997. The latest model is quieter, and the 8-inch infotainment system has been updated to include more connectivity options and more charging ports.
Despite its new tech, the 2023 Nissan Frontier still has a retro boxy build. Many people believe this gives the pickup old-school charm, but others think it appears dated beside more refined options, such as the Honda Ridgeline and Ford Ranger. What isn’t up for debate is that the model is one of the most accessibly priced on the market, starting at just $29,120.
Source: Nissan2023 GMC Sierra 1500
Since returning to the market in 2003, the GMC Sierra 1500 has enjoyed the reputation of being one of the most customizable light-duty, full-size pickups available. The 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 continues that selection, allowing you to custom design your vehicle by mixing and matching cabs, boxes, engines and even infotainment systems. The entry-level 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 Pro boasts a standard 310-hp, 2.7-liter turbo high-output engine and 13,200-pound towing capacity.
To protect you on the road, the truck has tons of standard features, including forward collision warning, lane keeping assistance, automated emergency braking, lane departure warning, blind spot monitoring and rear cross traffic alerts. The price for the vehicle starts at $36,400, which is competitive for trucks of its size.
Source: GMC2022 GMC Canyon
GMC has yet to share the details of the 2023 edition of its compact Canyon pickup truck, but the 2022 model offers plenty of value for the money at a low starting price of $26,800. Like the Sierra 1500, the 2022 GMC Canyon is highly customizable.
Equipped with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, the base model can tow up to 3,500 pounds, while the diesel has a maximum towing capacity of 7,700 pounds, making both a great choice for those who want to downsize without compromising power. The standard infotainment system is highly intuitive and simple to use. However, the vehicle has fewer safety features than other GMC models.
Source: GMC2023 Toyota Tacoma
First released in 1995, the Toyota Tacoma has a legion of loyal drivers, and the 2023 model gives you a glimpse at why the midsize is the only one on the market to outsell its full-size cousin. The Tacoma is built with tough conditions in mind with features such as Crawl Control, electronic locking rear differential and Bilstein shocks.
Although its 6,800-pound towing capacity is lower than some similarly sized pickup trucks, the Tacoma can easily travel where many competitors can’t. Plus, even with the low starting price of $27,250, you get access to desirable safety features, including forward collision warning, automated emergency braking and lane departure warning.
Source: Toyota2023 Ford Maverick
If you’re looking for a compact pickup truck that can double as a family vehicle, the 2023 Ford Maverick may be the model for you. For 2023, Ford redesigned the interior of the truck, which hit the market in 2021. Now, the five-seater has more legroom and headroom for every passenger, and its starting price of $22,195 is budget friendly.
The entry-level XL includes a 2.5-liter hybrid powertrain that has a combined fuel economy of 37 mpg. Automated emergency braking is a standard feature, and lane departure warning and lane keeping assistance features are available as options.
Source: Ford2022 Hyundai Santa Cruz
As of October 2022, Hyundai was still putting the finishing details on the 2023 Santa Cruz, but the 2022 model was still available with a starting price of $24,440. Designed for personal use more than work, the 2022 Hyundai Santa Cruz delivers a comfortable ride with little jostling or road noise.v
The responsive handling and standard features such as forward collision warning, automated emergency braking, standard lane departure and lane keeping assistance make it a safe pick for everyday use. Hyundai also provides excellent protection on your purchase. The truck comes with a 5-year, 60,000-mile limited warranty and complimentary maintenance for the first three years or 36,000 miles.
Source: HyundaiTips for Saving Money on Your New Truck
Getting the best deal on a new truck requires some research. Compare prices at multiple dealerships, both online and in person. Don’t be afraid to negotiate. Shopping at the end of the month when dealers push to reach their sales goals may increase the likelihood of successfully negotiating a lower price. When possible, wait to shop until you can make a down payment of 20% or more, as many financing deals have minimum cash payment requirements.
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