Top 5 Used Trucks: Affordable & Versatile

Trucks represent some of the most versatile vehicles in the United States. There are trucks designed solely for work in mind, boasting incredible towing strength and large storage space, as well as more luxurious models, perfect for taking the family on a weekend vacation. There are also multiple manufacturers producing trucks, making it even easier to find the perfect vehicle to suit your needs.

While there are many benefits to owning a truck, it can be an expensive investment. If you are looking to save money and still get a reliable vehicle, your best bet is to buy a used truck. Compared to other vehicles, trucks are made with durability in mind. This is a great benefit for anyone looking to buy used. Many truck owners end up upgrading after a few years. Their old truck, which is still in good condition, ends up going on the market for a severely reduced price. There are many used trucks to choose from, but listed below are five of the top choices for 2020.

2013 Nissan Frontier

The Nissan Frontier has been a staple in the trucking community since it was introduced in 2004. The Frontier was almost perfect on release, only receiving a few tweaks and minor upgrades with each subsequent model. As a result, the 2013 model has nearly the same features as a 2020 Frontier. The biggest difference between the 2013 and 2020 models is the 2013 Frontier does not have a rearview camera.

In terms of reliability, it is hard to beat the Frontier. Nissan has ranked high on J.D. Power’s Truck Dependability list for many years in a row. The Frontier works well in multiple environments. With a midsize truck, it works well for hauling equipment, but it also has a large crew cab, with enough seating for five, making it a solid family vehicle. It has a five-speed automatic transmission and a 261-horsepower engine, making it a great fit for city or urban environments. Typically, you can purchase a 2013 Nissan Frontier for between $17,500 and $18,800.

2010 Honda Ridgeline

The Ridgeline is not as rugged as other models of trucks, but what it lacks in strength, it makes up for in comfort and performance. The Ridgeline was built with paved roads in mind. You can take it off road, but it will not do as well as other models of truck. With a V6 engine and all-wheel drive, the Ridgeline performs well in even difficult weather conditions. It has a large crew-cab, with enough space to comfortable fit five.

The 2010 Ridgeline was considered advanced at the time with the number of features it offered as part of the standard model. This includes a six-speaker stereo, air conditioning, cruise control and power-sliding rear windows. There were also options to upscale and add Bluetooth, satellite radio and dual-zone automatic climate control. Many of these features are considered standard now, so these extra features are rarely reflected in the used price listing.
The Ridgeline normally goes for $13,000 to $15,000.

2013 Toyota Tacoma

Toyota’s 2013 Tacoma shares several similarities with the Nissan Frontier. In addition to being released in the same year, both vehicles have undergone few changes since launch, meaning the 2013 model is almost identical to the 2020 version. In some cases, the 2013 is even superior to the newer version. The 2013 Tacoma has a more powerful 4.0-liter engine, making it the superior vehicle for towing. Most of the modern features the 2013 model lack are superficial, such as no Bluetooth options. Because it is such a solid vehicle, the Tacoma does not experience as many price drops as other used trucks, typically costing around $19,000 to $20,000.

2014 Ford F-150

In terms of truck brands, there are few vehicles able to compete with Ford. The Ford F-150 comes in two models. The larger version is the XLT, with the main difference being trunk space. The Ford F-150 is particularly popular among used car enthusiasts. After 2014, Ford switched to aluminum bodies for their trucks. It is also one of the last trucks to use the powerful Coyote 5.0-liter V-8 engine. Another reason it is popular among used car enthusiasts is how easy it is to customize. With a little time and investment, you can add some of the modern-day amenities missing from the 2014 model. Much like the Tacoma, the reliability of the F-150 makes it one of the pricier used car options, typically costing around $19,000 to $20,000.

2013 GMC Sierra

One of the downsides of purchasing a used truck is the older models do not have great safety features compared to newer vehicles. A notable exception is GMC’s 2013 Sierra, which received a 4-star rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. There are two variants available, a standard Sierra and one with an extended cab. With an extended cab, you gain seating for six, though the rear seats are smaller than the rest of the crew cab. Both versions have a powerful, Vortec 4.8-liter V-8 engine, capable of towing over 5,000 pounds. The price for a used Sierra varies more than other vehicles, ranging anywhere from $15,000 to $20,000 depending on where you live as well as whether you want to pay more for the extended cab.