If you’re shopping for a pickup to put to work, and do not care about all the extra frills, then this list of cheap trucks is for you. If you’re not swayed by plush leather seats or high-end sound systems but simply need a durable truck with a high-value price tag, we’ve ranked the best of them to help you make a smart choice. The most basic machines often make do with rugged materials and fewer electronics, but this also means lighter maintenance costs further down the line. Not every well-priced pickup truck is all barebones, though, and some pack in advanced safety features at a palatable price. It is just as well that our reviews cover standard and optional features to enable quick comparisons with key rivals. If value is high on your agenda, you will likely also want to know about warranty coverage and reliability - our team has also taken these aspects into account when assigning each automobile with an overall BuzzScore. Before you spend your money on the wrong vehicle, peruse the top affordable trucks on our list to ensure that you get the most bang for your buck.

Why buy a truck?

Just because you’re not willing to empty your savings account to make a down payment on a top-of-the-range car does not mean that you should settle for just any old jalopy. Before you blow your hard-earned dough, make sure you’re getting your money’s worth by ticking some non-negotiable boxes.

What to Consider Before Buying

You’re probably thinking that there are a lot of cars out there that meet these criteria, and that may be true, especially in the case of some of the more rugged SUVs on the market. But what these cars bring to the table is unbeatable.

Pros

• Hard-to-beat power when properly equipped
• Access to potent diesel powertrains
• Rugged and dependable
• Laser focus on getting the job done
• Genuine 4x4 capabilities as opposed to just 4WD

Cons

• Lackluster fuel economy
• Almost all comforts are limited to expensive top trims
• Not half as much fun in the city as the outdoors

Cheapest pickup truck models that do it right

Now that you know what you’re looking for, here are some examples of brands that offer great new cheap pickup trucks.Ford has a couple of entries at this price point, with the F-150 placing slightly above the Ranger. With only a turbocharged four-pot, the Ranger cannot work as hard, maxing out at 7,500 pounds when equipped to tow. The F-150 hauls a whopping 13,200 lbs in it is most capable guise, but there is a noticeable $4k difference, too, with the more capable machine starting at a higher MSRP of almost $30k.Our top cheapest truck is the Ram 1500, starting at around $32k. Even in its most basic configuration, it is quite capable. It also looks good, too. If you do not wish to spring for the pricier V8, the base engine still handles loads of up to 7,700 lbs. The cabin also seats up to six passengers, depending on the setup, and Ram does a pretty good job of keeping everyone comfortable.

FAQs

What is the cheapest new pickup truck?

When it comes to affordable hard workers, you’re unlikely to find a lower-priced model than the Chevrolet Colorado, with a starting MSRP of just below $23k. But, if you want more than the base four-cylinder engine, you may need to pony up some extra dough.

What is the most expensive truck?

Super heavy-duty trucks like the Ford F-350 and Ram 3500 don’t go for less than $35k, but the F-450 starts even higher, in excess of $50k. If you only need the kind of power these beasts bring to bear on choice occasions, it may be better to consider going the rental route.

Is it worth buying a used pickup?

Since these automobiles are generally quite light on comfort and tech features, you do not really lose out on much by looking at an older model. Where you will pay in excess of $20k for a new 2024 edition, you could probably pick up a 2020 or 2019 variant for sale in the mid-teens.