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Pickup trucks are generally pretty expensive, but there are a handful of vehicles that are considered "affordable." In fact, there are some that come in below $20,000, which is incredible considering all that these trucks have to offer.
To see what the best new car prices will be in the pickup segment, continue reading after the break...
The Tundra has been embraced since it hit the scene earlier this fall. Edmunds.com commended the i-FORCE 4.6-liter V8 engine, which can pump out 310 horsepower and 327 ft-lbs of torque. The powerful unit is accompanied by a dependable six-speed automatic transmission (with includes overdrive).
The website also appreciated the roomy large double cab, with the wheel base coming in at a bit over 12 feet. With a 19-foot length and six-foot-seven width, the Tundra presents a very roomy driving experience. The interior features 42.5 inches of front leg room and 62.6 of front hip room, and you'll get an additional 62.6 inches of rear hip room and 34.7 inches of rear leg room. The pickup truly features one of the roomiest interiors in the class.
Other 'pros' included the high-tech technology, like the dual zone automatic climate control or center infotainment system, and the off-roading capabilities, which the truck can accomplish via the powerful front brakes, steel wheels, P255/70R18 tires (or optional TRD 17-inch Forged Off-Road Wheels), and TRD Pro Bilstein front and rear shocks.
Of course, the other positive is the price, as the Tundra comes in at $28,510.
On the flip side, Edmunds wasn't so fond of the trucks fuel economy, which comes in at 15 city/19 highway miles per gallon. They also referred to the vehicle's "stiff ride," and despite the extra space, they mentioned that they felt considerably larger than other trucks while driving on tight, narrow roads.
There's not a whole lot of information regarding the upcoming Ram 1500, but we do know that the vehicle will certainly be inexpensive. All reports suggest that the 1500 will come in around $25,660, a very reasonable price considering all of the amenities. Mitch McCullough of TheCarConnection.com luckily got an exclusive look at the pickup in advance of the early-2016 release, so we do have some expert opinion of the vehicle.
The writer appreciates the fuel economy from the two optional engines (and the accompanying eight-speed transmission). The standard 3.6-liter V6 engine delivers a 17 city/25 highway mile per gallon efficiency (it can also produce an impressive 205 horsepower and 269 ft-lbs of torque). For those seeking a diesel engine, there's a 3.0-liter V6 that delivers 20 city/29 highway mpg, while also pumping out 420 ft-lbs of torque. The third engine option (5.7-liter 396 horsepower V8 engine) has no reported economy specs.
To further improve the vehicle's efficiency, engineers included a "lightweight frame that uses high-strength steel, aerodynamic grille shutters, low-rolling-resistance tires, pulse-width modulation for the alternator and power accessories, and a thermal management system." That's all pretty impressive technology, and you can expect some best-in-class economy from the 1500.
McCullough was also particularly fond of the interior, noting the comfortable cabin, eye-catching infotainment system, and the easy-to-access controls. However, he wasn't as positive about the air suspension (which he deemed "too tough" on the highway) or the data service (which reportedly offers limited coverage).
Similar to the other trucks mentioned on this list, the upcoming Tacoma has received positive marks for the engine. The 3.5-liter V6 engine may only pump out 265 ft-lbs of torque and 278 horsepower, but it also delivers a relatively impressive 19 city/23 highway mile per gallon fuel efficiency.
With a high-strength steel design, the Tacoma is one of the toughest and most rugged trucks on the market. The "hot-stamped high-strength alloy" doesn't only help improve performance, but it also improves the vehicle's safety capabilities.
Of course, also like the other trucks on this list, the Tacoma features incredible off-roading abilities. It starts with TRD Off-Road's Crawl Control, which helps "modulate the throttle and brake on five low-speed settings." The Multi-terrain Select allows you to choose from five different modes, which will adapt your vehicle to whatever conditions you're traveling on. The Hill Start Assist Control allows you to comfortably travel on even the toughest hills, as the technology prevents your vehicle from rolling backward. The electronic locking rear differential evenly distributes power to both wheels, and the electronic shift transfer case easily switches between four-wheel and two-wheel drive. And of course, we have to mention the tough, dependable Goodyear Wrangler tires (featuring touch Kevlar material).
Edmunds was also a fan of all the included technology, like the Smart Key (which allows you to operate your engine via the push of a button) and GoPro mount on the windshield (which can help capture all of your favorite off-roading moments). A Qi-compatible smartphone charging dock ensures that you'll always be able to call for help, and the integrated backup camera assures that you'll never back over any undesired object. Finally, the impressive Entune audio system provides you with a JBL amplifier and premium speakers, making for one enjoyable adventure.
None of the features or specs we could mention for the Frontier would rival the incredible price. The upcoming Nissan pickup will likely be the most affordable in the class in 2016, coming in at $17,990.
Now, we don't want to discredit the vehicle, which is mighty impressive. The Frontier will ultimately be known for the towing capabilities, as the V6 engine (which produces 261 horsepower and 281 ft-lbs of torque) offers a maximum towing capacity of 6,500 pounds. If you don't feel like hauling anything, you'll still have plenty of room via the truck's roomy bed or rear under-seat storage bin.
You can be assured that this cargo will always be secure, as the Utili-track cargo-carrying system uses various "channels" to help keep your haul in place. Meanwhile, the cargo bed light helps you see at night, and the "cleverly placed" lock means that nobody will ever get into your goods.
For such an affordable price, you wouldn't expect such an impressive looking vehicle. The interior features a variety of materials that makes for a mighty comfortable ride, and the five passengers would have plenty of room to spread out their legs. The exterior features chrome on the rear bumper and front grille, and rear privacy glass helps give the truck a "touch of attitude." There's also functional fog lights, "Desert Runner" graphics, and the recognizable design of the Frontier. For such a great price, could you really ask for anything more?