If you’re in the market for a new pickup truck, you’re probably wondering how to find the best deal. With so many options available, it can be tough to know where to start. But fear not, because I’m here to help. In this article, we’ll explore the world of pickup trucks and find out which models are the most affordable.
Table of Contents
Introduction
Pickup trucks are a staple of American culture. They’re tough, rugged, and can handle just about anything you throw at them. From hauling heavy loads to off-roading adventures, pickup trucks are the go-to vehicle for those who need a versatile and reliable ride.
However, pickup trucks can also be expensive. With many models costing upwards of $30,000 or more, it can be challenging to find a truck that fits your budget. That’s where the idea of “cheap” pickup trucks comes in.
When we say “cheap,” we don’t mean low quality. Instead, we’re referring to models that are affordable without sacrificing performance or reliability. In this article, we’ll explore what makes a pickup truck “cheap,” and we’ll take a look at the top six affordable options for 2021. Let’s get started!
Top 6 Cheapest Pickup Trucks in 2021
When it comes to finding an affordable pickup truck, there are plenty of options to choose from. To help narrow down the choices, we’ve compiled a list of the top six cheapest pickup trucks for 2021.
1. Nissan Frontier
The Nissan Frontier starts at just $27,190, making it one of the most affordable pickups on the market. It boasts a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that delivers up to 18 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway.
2. GMC Canyon
The GMC Canyon is another affordable option, with a starting price of $26,400. It offers a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that provides up to 20 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway.
3. Chevrolet Colorado
The Chevrolet Colorado is priced similarly to the GMC Canyon, with a starting price of $26,395. It comes with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that delivers up to 20 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway.
4. Toyota Tacoma
The Toyota Tacoma is a bit pricier than some of the other options on this list, starting at $26,400. However, it comes with a 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine that delivers up to 20 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway.
5. Ford Ranger
The Ford Ranger starts at $24,820, making it one of the most affordable pickups on the market. It offers a 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine that provides up to 21 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway.
6. Ram 1500 Classic
The Ram 1500 Classic is the most expensive option on this list, starting at $29,895. However, it comes with a 3.6-liter V6 engine that delivers up to 17 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway.
No matter which pickup truck you choose, make sure to consider the criteria we discussed earlier to find the best deal for your needs.
Comparison of the Top 6
Now that we’ve taken a look at the top six cheapest pickup trucks for 2021, let’s compare them to see how they stack up against each other.
Price Comparison
When it comes to price, the Nissan Frontier is the clear winner. With a starting price of around $19,000, it’s the most affordable option on our list. The Ram 1500 Classic is the most expensive, with a starting price of around $28,000.
Fuel Efficiency Comparison
In terms of fuel efficiency, the Toyota Tacoma comes out on top. It gets an estimated 20-23 mpg in the city and 23-26 mpg on the highway. The GMC Canyon and Chevrolet Colorado are close behind, with both getting an estimated 18-20 mpg in the city and 25-26 mpg on the highway.
Maintenance Cost Comparison
When it comes to maintenance costs, the Ford Ranger is the most affordable. According to Kelley Blue Book, it has a 5-year cost-to-own of around $38,000. The Ram 1500 Classic is the most expensive, with a 5-year cost-to-own of around $53,000.
Safety Features Comparison
All of the pickup trucks on our list come with a variety of safety features, such as airbags, traction control, and stability control. However, the Toyota Tacoma and Ford Ranger stand out for their advanced safety features, such as lane departure warning and forward collision warning.
Warranty Comparison
In terms of warranty, the Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon offer the best coverage, with a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty and a 3-year/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty. The Ram 1500 Classic has the shortest warranty, with a 3-year/36,000-mile powertrain warranty and a 3-year/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty.
Pros and Cons of Owning a Cheap Pickup Truck
When it comes to buying a pickup truck, affordability is a top priority for many people. However, owning a cheap pickup truck comes with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. In this section, we’ll take a closer look at what you can expect when you own a cheap pickup truck.
Advantages
The most obvious advantage of owning a cheap pickup truck is that it’s more affordable than a more expensive model. This means you’ll have more money in your pocket and won’t have to worry about making high monthly payments.
Another advantage of owning a cheap pickup truck is that it can be easier to maintain. Many of the most affordable models have simpler designs and fewer features, which means there’s less that can go wrong. This can translate to lower maintenance costs over time.
Disadvantages
While there are certainly advantages to owning a cheap pickup truck, there are also some disadvantages to consider. For one, cheaper models may not have as many features as more expensive ones. This means you may miss out on things like advanced safety features or high-tech infotainment systems.
Another potential disadvantage of owning a cheap pickup truck is that it may not be as durable as a more expensive model. Cheaper materials and simpler designs can mean that the truck may not be able to handle as much wear and tear over time.
Tips for Making the Most of Your Purchase
If you do decide to buy a cheap pickup truck, there are some tips you can follow to make the most of your purchase. First, do your research and find a model that has good reviews and a solid reputation for reliability.
Next, make sure you take good care of your truck by following the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule. Regular oil changes, tire rotations, and other basic maintenance tasks can help keep your truck running smoothly and prevent costly repairs down the road.
Finally, consider adding some aftermarket upgrades to your truck to make it even more versatile and functional. From bed liners to towing packages, there are plenty of accessories available that can help you get more out of your cheap pickup truck.
Conclusion
Finding the cheapest pickup truck doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By focusing on key criteria such as price range, fuel efficiency, maintenance cost, safety features, and warranty, you can narrow down your options and find a truck that fits your budget.
In this article, we’ve explored six of the most affordable pickup trucks for 2021. From the Nissan Frontier to the Ram 1500 Classic, these models offer great value without sacrificing performance or reliability.
Before making a final decision, it’s important to consider the pros and cons of owning a cheap pickup truck. While these models may save you money upfront, they may come with higher maintenance costs or fewer features. However, by doing your research and weighing your options, you can find a pickup truck that meets your needs and fits your budget.
Overall, the cheapest pickup truck for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. Use this article as a starting point to explore your options, and don’t be afraid to test drive a few models to see which one feels right for you. With a little patience and persistence, you’ll find the perfect pickup truck at a price you can afford.