American car buyers have always had a strong preference for pickup trucks, making them the best-selling vehicles in the United States year after year. This trend also extends to the used car market, where trucks continue to be a popular choice. In 2024, there are several great options for those looking to buy a used truck.
One of the best options for a used truck under $10,000 is the 2005-2011 Dodge and Ram Dakota. This truck offers decent hauling and towing capabilities at an affordable price point. For those in need of a larger truck, the 2008-2012 Nissan Titan with its 5.6-liter V8 engine is a solid choice.
If you have a bit more to spend, any Toyota Tacoma under $15,000 is a reliable and durable option, despite its cramped interior. For a full-size truck in the same price range, a 2013 or newer Ram 1500 with the 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 engine is a good choice.
Moving up to the $20,000 range, the 2014-2018 Chevrolet Silverado offers affordability and durability, with solid V8 engine options. The 2015-2019 Ford F-150 is another great option in the same price range, offering impressive capabilities and a lighter weight construction.
For those looking for a compact pickup truck under $25,000, the 2016-2019 Toyota Tacoma is a popular choice, despite being less refined than its competitors. If you prefer a more car-like ride, the 2017-2019 Honda Ridgeline offers comfort and efficiency, although it may not match the towing capabilities of a full-size truck.
In terms of overall sales, the Ford F-150, Chevrolet Silverado, and Ram 1500 are the top three used trucks in the market. The Toyota Tacoma is the best-selling midsize pickup, outselling its larger sibling, the Toyota Tundra. The GMC Sierra, which shares many similarities with the Silverado, also performs well in terms of sales.
While trucks dominate the used vehicle market, there are other models like the Toyota Camry, RAV4, and Honda Civic that outsell even the most popular trucks. As gas prices rise, consumer preferences may shift towards smaller, more fuel-efficient vehicles, potentially impacting the sales of larger trucks in the future.
Overall, the used truck market in 2024 offers a variety of options for buyers, from affordable workhorses to more comfortable, car-like models. Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly truck or a more capable full-size option, there are plenty of choices to suit your needs and preferences.