Looking for Your First Truck? Here Are 3 Affordable Models You Won’t Regret

The demand for affordable pickup truck models is increasing every year, but no suitable model can meet this demand. In particular, consumers’ voices are loud about the need for small—to mid-size pickup truck models that are small in size and efficient.

As it takes a lot of money to purchase a pickup truck, pickup trucks that offer cost-effectiveness by lowering the price and size have recently become popular in the US market. We will introduce three affordable pickup trucks that are popular as first vehicles for beginners or entry-level workers in the US.

Colorado with Comfortable Ride Quality
Superior Brake System

The first is Chevrolet’s Colorado. The price is set at $29,500. It supports front-wheel drive and four-wheel drive. The powertrain is equipped with a 2.7-liter 4-cylinder gasoline turbocharged engine that produces a maximum output of 237 horsepower and is mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission. The basic engine may be disappointing compared to the performance expected from a pickup truck, but a more powerful version of the engine is also available. The L3B gasoline turbocharged engine delivers increased performance of 310 horsepower. Combined fuel efficiency is 7.9-8.3 km/l (18.5-19.5 mpg).

The second-generation model slightly increased the length, width, and wheelbase. Although the legroom in the first and second rows was reduced to secure deck capacity, sufficient loading space can be secured. It is relatively quiet inside without much noise, and the ride is evaluated to be sufficiently comfortable as long as there is no luggage. It provides excellent traction and sufficient braking power. The interior has an 8-inch display for the basic model, and the central air vent is lowered to create a clean impression. Most buttons are located in ample space on the center fascia to increase the convenience of operation.

Ford Entry-Level Pickup Truck Maverick
Even the Base Model Delivers High Performance

Next is the Ford Maverick. The 2024 Ford Maverick starts at $25,140 for the lowest XL trim. It supports front-wheel and four-wheel drives and was developed based on the same C2 platform as the Escape and Bronco Sports. In the powertrain case, the 2.0-liter 4-cylinder EcoBoost engine produces a maximum output of 250 horsepower and a maximum torque of 38.3kgf.m. An 8-speed automatic transmission is engaged here.

The hybrid, which can be added for $1,500, is equipped with a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder gasoline engine and an electric motor, producing a maximum output of 191 horsepower. However, only front-wheel drive and CVT transmission are provided for the hybrid model. Combined fuel efficiency reaches 16 km/l (37.6 mpg) for the hybrid and rises to 17.8 km/l (41.9 mpg) for city driving.

Hyundai’s Santa Cruz
Improved Interior and Exterior

The last one is Hyundai’s Santa Cruz. The price of the lowest SE trim starts at $29,000. With the recent launch of a new model (facelift version), it features a more angular and solid masculine design. It supports front-wheel drive and rear-wheel drive. A 2.5-liter 4-cylinder gasoline engine is installed in the powertrain case. This produces a maximum output of 191 horsepower and is mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission. The gasoline turbo engine mated to an 8-speed dual-clutch transmission delivers 281 horsepower. A 12.3-inch infotainment display and an analog instrument panel are applied for the SE trim interior.

Changes were made to the dashboard, center console configuration, and steering wheel. Specifically, the center fascia now includes a panel for the air conditioning system, with physical buttons added above it to enhance the ease of accessing essential functions. The center console features a boot-type gear lever and an electronic parking brake. Hyundai recently developed and launched a facelift version of the Santa Cruz, incorporating the latest design elements into both the exterior and interior.