12 Cheap Pickup Trucks That You Can Buy Right Now

The love for pickup trucks is undeniably rising worldwide. Each year, global automobile brands keep unveiling new models with high-end features that keep the international market bubbling. While it's a common trend for most trucks (EV trucks especially) to hike prices a few years after their first debut, there is still a huge demand for pickup trucks that create a unique driving adventure, without a steep hike in prices. In 2021, about 3.3 million automobiles, 11.6 million pickup trucks, and 451,400 heavy-duty trucks were sold in the United States alone. It's important to point out that the majority of these pickup trucks purchased in 2021 were cheap trucks! More specifically, the Ford F series, Ram Pickup, Chevrolet Silverado, Toyota Tacoma, GMC Sierra, etc. took the lead in truck sales in 2021 (via Statista).

Interestingly, these are some of the top cheap pickup trucks we will recommend for you to buy in this article. However, unlike most cheap products, these are in no way of inferior quality. Some of them are also listed among the best trucks to get in 2022. Talk about enjoying the best of both worlds. Whether you are thinking of getting a new cheap truck that would not break the bank, or you are seeking to learn about the next best things in the light truck market, this article is just what you need. Here, we will review some of the best cheap trucks rated for their rising usefulness and sheer driving pleasure. 

There aren't many significant differences between the 2023 and 2022 Hyundai Santa Cruz models. The only notable variation may be the Santa Cruz Night edition, which features various blacked-out accents such as 20-inch black rims, a darker grille, and black door handles. Also, the 2023 base SE trim's starting price has increased by $1010 to $26,745. It now comes standard with a blind-spot monitor and rear cross-traffic alert, which were not previously available on the SE. The SEL Premium trim now has a 10.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, which was previously only available on the Limited trim. It also has additional features such as adaptive cruise control with GPS-based curve control, advanced voice recognition software, and the ability to automatically match the posted speed limit.

The Hyundai Santa Cruz offers two engine options: a standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder that produces 191 horsepower and 181 pound-feet of torque, and an upgraded turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder with 281 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque. The latter engine is preferred due to its added power and more responsive performance. Both engines are paired with eight-speed automatic transmissions, with the turbo option featuring a dual-clutch variety. All-wheel drive is available with both four cylinders. It's important to note that Santa Cruz is shorter and lower than other vehicles in its class, making it easier to handle in urban areas. The top-of-the-line Limited model showcases Santa Cruz's smooth ride and agile handling.

Toyota Tacoma has claimed the title of the top-selling mid-size pickup for the past 17 years, according to Toyota. It may not be the most refined or modern pickup truck, but it is sturdy and capable of getting the job done. The Tacoma is available in a wide variety of trims, ranging from the Sport and Limited models that prioritize on-road handling and comfort, to the Off-Road and TRD Pro models that can tackle rough terrain. Toyota Safety Sense P, which includes a pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, high-speed dynamic radar cruise control, lane departure alert, and automatic high beams, comes standard on all Tacoma models.

Most models come with a four-cylinder engine, but a V6 option is also available. The majority of Tacoma models come with an automatic transmission, but a few models still offer a manual option. This Toyota truck brand has received annual updates that have kept it current with the latest safety and convenience features, such as automatic emergency braking and Apple CarPlay compatibility (via Truecar).  The TRD Sport Double Cab 5' Bed V6 4WD Automatic is the most popular style, which starts at $40,215 and comes with a 3.5L V6 engine and Four-Wheel Drive. Toyota Tacoma also comes in 7 trim levels and is estimated to deliver 18 MPG in the city and 22 MPG on the highway.

The GMC Canyon is a midsize pickup truck that comes in four trim levels, including the off-road AT4 and the luxurious Denali. The extended cab model has seating for four and a 6-foot bed, while the crew cab comes with a 5- or 6-foot bed and seating for five. If you need more space for occupants, you'll have to upgrade to the four-door crew cab, which seats five and starts at $30,895 (via Cars.com). However, the Canyon falls short in crash tests and standard safety features compared to other pickups like the Toyota Tacoma, which received higher marks from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

The GMC Canyon's most budget-friendly Elevation Standard trim costs just under $29,000 and comes with a two-door extended cab that seats four people. Plus the GMC Canyon Elevation Standard has powertrain options that match the Chevrolet Colorado and also offers a turbo-diesel engine. It also comes with a 200-horsepower, 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and six-speed automatic transmission that delivers 191 pounds-feet of torque.

There's also an available 3.6-liter V-6 that's paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and offers 308 horsepower and 275 pounds-feet of torque. The base four-cylinder engine with standard rear-wheel drive gets an EPA-rated 22 mpg combined, and four-wheel drive is available. The base engine has a towing capacity of 3,500 pounds, while the 3.6-liter V-6 can tow up to 7,000 pounds (via USNEWS).

The Chevrolet Silverado 1500 TD is a version of the popular Chevrolet Silverado 1500 pickup truck that has been carried over from the previous year and will be available alongside the newly redesigned Chevrolet Silverado 1500. The 2022 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 features a redesigned dashboard, new technology, and GM's Super Cruise autonomous driving system. It is intended for budget-conscious buyers who are looking for a comfortable and capable full-size pickup but do not need the latest technology. Similarly, the Silverado 1500 LTD features the same five engine options as the previous year, including two V8s and a turbodiesel, and offers a range of bed sizes, cab styles, and trim levels to choose from, including two off-road-ready Trail Boss models.

It offers plenty of interior space, user-friendly trailering technology, and good fuel efficiency for its class, and is a good value compared to its competition, including the Ford F-150, Ram 1500, and the redesigned Chevrolet Silverado 1500.

The release of the updated 2022 Sierra 1500 model has been delayed, leading General Motors to introduce the GMC Sierra 1500 Limited as a temporary alternative. While the 2021 GMC Sierra 1500 and 2022 GMC Sierra Limited share many similarities, there are a few key differences to note. For instance, the base Sierra 1500 trim is now referred to as the Pro model. It is predicted that the 2022 Sierra will undergo a major makeover, with a new grille, headlamps, and interior redesign. In addition, new trim levels will be introduced, such as the AT4X with its rugged Multimatic spool-valve dampers and front/rear locking differentials, and the luxurious Denali and Denali Ultimate trims equipped with the Super Cruise hands-free driver assistance system.

However, Sierra's position as a more upscale option compared to the closely related Chevrolet Silverado 1500 remains unchanged. One notable feature that sets the Sierra apart is its Denali trim, which offers luxurious amenities and transforms the pickup into a high-end vehicle. Conclusively, the Sierra 1500 Limited is available in multiple cab styles and bed lengths and competes with other top models such as the Ford F-150, Ram 1500, Toyota Tundra, and Nissan Titan in the competitive pickup truck market.

Last year, the Toyota Tundra underwent a major overhaul, introducing a plethora of enhancements such as a hybrid engine, an advanced infotainment system, and a modified suspension that greatly improves the ride. The interior also received upgrades to rival those of its competitors. Its top-of-the-line Capstone trim offers a luxurious experience for those seeking a touch of refinement in their rugged truck. You can explore the Tundra in seven different trims, with the option of Double or CrewMax cabs, three-bed lengths, and either rear-wheel or four-wheel drive.

While the Tundra's numerous configurations can handle a range of activities from work to family fun, other trucks in its class also offer a wide array of options. For instance, the Ram 1500 boasts the most refined ride in the segment, with a variety of trims and engine options; Ford F-150 has the highest towing and payload ratings on the market, while the Chevrolet Silverado 1500 offers a range of engines and trims, but its interior may not be as appealing as some of its competitors.

The Toyota Tundra's towing capacity ranges from 8,300 to 12,000 pounds depending on the trim and equipment level. Its payload capacity ranges from 1,745 to 2,290 pounds, which are respectable figures that may be sufficient for most owners' needs, although they do not reach the top of their class.