Pickup trucks have come a long way in the last decade. Long gone are the days when this vehicle type was only a workhorse suitable for demanding daily jobs at construction sites or the countryside. Today’s pickup trucks are practical, convenient, and luxurious, making a strong case for themselves as daily drivers. Some of the best pickup trucks for all-around purposes include the Toyota Tacoma, Ford Ranger, Ford F-150, and Toyota Tundra, but there are other great choices.
UPDATE: 2023/09/27 by Ron FP
Last 2022,
pickup trucks accounted for roughly 20% share
of the US passenger car market. Despite the prevalence of crossovers and SUVs in the country, many Americans still prefer to have pickup trucks due to their flexibility for both casual commutes and universal utility. HotCars has updated this article to give potential buyers a shortlist of the best pickup trucks for these purposes.
We used cross-referenced vehicle reliability, maintenance, customer satisfaction, and pricing data from manufacturer websites,
J.D. Power
,
Kelley Blue Book
(KBB),
Edmunds
,
Repairpal
,
CarEdge
,
Carsurvey
,
CarComplaints
, and
Consumer Reports
(CR) to give you 13 of the best pickup trucks that are great for both work and daily drives.
So, if you need a vehicle for work use and daily commuting, you can now get it all in one unit. Although it’s nice to have a ride for every purpose, such as an efficient sedan or hatchback for everyday driving and a heavy-duty pickup truck for work, getting a single vehicle for these purposes can prove more cost-effective. Moreover, modern pickup trucks now have much to offer to prospective buyers, and they can be just as good daily drivers as their smaller rivals.
If getting an efficient pickup truck as a work and commuter vehicle sounds appealing, check out our following picks. The best new trucks of 2023 and 2024 we selected for this article are full of features to help you tackle demanding jobs and ensure comfort in your daily whereabouts.
13 2024 Ford Maverick
Don’t let its smaller size fool you — the Ford Maverick is a workhorse that will help you get your job done without sacrificing daily comfort and convenience. With efficient powertrains, excellent fuel economy, superior space and comfort (for the size), and many customizable comfort and tech features and components, the Ford Maverick is a versatile and utilitarian truck you need for everyday use. On top of everything, you can get it without breaking the bank.
2024 Ford Maverick Price And Specifications
|
2024 Ford Maverick |
Values |
|---|---|
|
Starting MSRP Range |
$23,400 – $34,855 |
|
Engine Options |
2.0-liter EcoBoost I4 or 2.5-liter Hybrid I4 |
|
Horsepower Range, hp |
191 – 250 |
|
Torque Range, lb-ft |
155 – 277 |
|
Max Towing Capacity, lbs |
4,000 |
|
Max Payload Capacity, lbs |
1,500 |
|
EPA-Estimated Best Fuel Economy, MPG |
37 |
|
Drive Configuration |
FWD/AWD |
12 2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz
Although its design may not be everyone’s cup of tea, the utility and capability of the Santa Cruz will definitely appeal to many prospective buyers. Firstly, this mid-size pickup truck drives like a car while providing the abilities of a pickup truck. Secondly, the Santa Cruz has a long list of features to boost performance, convenience, and everyday comfort.
With great quality, reliability, driving experience, and resale value, the Hyundai Santa Cruz is a top everyday choice that will keep you satisfied for most light to medium-demanding daily tasks.
2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz Price And Specifications
|
2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz |
Values |
|---|---|
|
Starting MSRP Range |
$25,700 – $40,570 |
|
Engine Options |
2.5-liter I4, 2.5-liter Turbo I4 |
|
Horsepower Range, hp |
191 – 281 |
|
Torque Range, lb-ft |
181 – 311 |
|
Max Towing Capacity, lbs |
5,000 |
|
Max Payload Capacity, lbs |
1,411 |
|
EPA-Estimated Best Fuel Economy, MPG |
23 |
|
Drive Configuration |
FWD/AWD |
11 2023 Honda Ridgeline
One of the best midsize pickup trucks for 2023 is the Honda Ridgeline, a vehicle with unibody construction that provides a refined and comfortable ride as well as respectable work capabilities. Although not the toughest or best for off-roading out there, the Honda Ridgeline is a decently capable pickup truck with great fuel economy, a nicely appointed cabin and tech, top safety ratings, and much more. For some light work and daily commuting, it will more than suffice.
2023 Honda Ridgeline Price And Specifications
|
2023 Honda Ridgeline |
Values |
|---|---|
|
Starting MSRP Range |
$38,800 – $46,230 |
|
Engine Option/s |
3.5-liter V6 |
|
Horsepower Range, hp |
280 |
|
Torque Range, lb-ft |
262 |
|
Max Towing Capacity, lbs |
5,000 |
|
Max Payload Capacity, lbs |
1,583 |
|
EPA-Estimated Best Fuel Economy, MPG |
21 |
|
Drive Configuration |
FWD/AWD |
10 2024 Ford Ranger
Redesigned for 2024, the Ford Ranger features a new exterior inspired by the best-selling F-150. Offered exclusively in crew cab layout, the 2024 Ford Ranger also comes with notable infotainment system and driver assist upgrades.
In terms of powertrain options, the 2024 Ranger will still offer the base 2.3-liter turbocharged I4 engine and the range-topping 3.0-liter V6 (for the Ford Ranger Raptor), but a new 2.7-liter twin-turbo V6 engine now joins the lineup as the mid-spec option. The truck will come with a 10-speed A/T and a choice between RWD or AWD configurations.
2024 Ford Ranger Price And Specifications
|
2024 Ford Ranger |
Values |
|---|---|
|
Starting MSRP Range |
$32,565 – $55,365 |
|
Engine Options |
2.3-liter I4, 2.7-liter V6, 3.0-liter V6 |
|
Horsepower Range, hp |
270, 310, and 405 |
|
Torque Range, lb-ft |
310, 400, and 430 |
|
Max Towing Capacity, lbs |
7,500 |
|
Max Payload Capacity, lbs |
1,805 |
|
EPA-Estimated Best Fuel Economy, MPG |
23 |
|
Drive Configuration |
4×2, 4×4 |
9 2023 Chevrolet Colorado
Redesigned for the 2023 production year to be more modern and convenient, the Chevrolet Colorado is an excellent all-around truck. With an inline-four engine providing three levels of power outputs, the latest technology ensuring fun and convenience, and the various features (e.g., driving modes and off-road equipment) boosting performance and capability, the Chevy Colorado is all about versatility.
Alongside providing top-notch comfort for daily commuting with its quality and tech-loaded roomy interior, the Chevrolet Colorado has a maximum towing capacity of 7,700 pounds to help with daily work tasks. Moreover, this pickup truck has high reliability ratings, which means it should not have any significant defects or issues.
2023 Chevrolet Colorado Price And Specifications
|
2023 Chevrolet Colorado |
Values |
|---|---|
|
Starting MSRP Range |
$29,200 – $48,295 |
|
Engine Options |
2.7-liter turbo, 2.7-liter turbo high-output |
|
Horsepower Range, hp |
237 – 310 |
|
Torque Range, lb-ft |
260 – 430 |
|
Max Towing Capacity, lbs |
7,700 |
|
Max Payload Capacity, lbs |
1,684 |
|
EPA-Estimated Best Fuel Economy, MPG |
22 |
|
Drive Configuration |
4×2, 4×4 |
8 2023 Nissan Frontier
The Nissan Frontier received its fair share of upgrades in 2022 and remains largely the same for 2023. Thanks to the Nissan Frontier’s standard V6 engine, a 6,690-pound towing capacity, a four-wheel drive, a steel front skid plate, Hill Descent Control, and various other components and features, this pickup truck makes an excellent work unit.
The advanced tech, safety, and comfort features help make this pickup truck an efficient and fun daily driver, although the rear seats are a little cramped. What’s also essential to mention is that Nissan offers deductions on the Frontier for businesses. If you get this pickup truck for work-related purposes, you may be able to deduct a percentage of the price.
2023 Nissan Frontier Price And Specifications
|
2023 Nissan Frontier |
Values |
|---|---|
|
Starting MSRP Range |
$29,570 – $39,100 |
|
Engine Option/s |
3.8-liter V6 |
|
Horsepower Range, hp |
310 |
|
Torque Range, lb-ft |
281 |
|
Max Towing Capacity, lbs |
6,690 |
|
Max Payload Capacity, lbs |
1,620 |
|
EPA-Estimated Best Fuel Economy, MPG |
21 |
|
Drive Configuration |
4×2, 4×4 |
7 2024 Toyota Tacoma
Completely redesigned for 2024, The Tacoma now uses the Toyota New Global Architecture – F (TNGA-F) platform – the same one underpinning Toyota’s full-size models like the Tundra, Sequoia, Land Cruiser 300, and Lexus LX. The 2024 Toyota Tacoma comes with a turbocharged 2.4-liter inline-4 i-FORCE powerplant as its base engine, as well as a hybrid powerplant that’s optional for lower trims and standard for higher variants. The i-FORCE MAX Hybrid system – a combination of the 2.4-liter i-FORCE engine and a hybrid electric motor (48 hp, 184 lb-ft) draws power from a 1.87-kWh battery pack to produce a total system output of 326 hp and 465 lb-ft of torque.
Toyota USA is still selling the 2023 Tacoma in its dealerships, but the 2024 Tacoma i-FORCE gasoline trims will be available in late 2023 and the hybrid i-FORCE MAX Tacomas will hit the streets early in 2024.
2024 Toyota Tacoma Price And Specifications
|
2024 Toyota Tacoma |
Values |
|---|---|
|
Starting MSRP Range (estimate) |
$28,000 – $50,000 |
|
Engine Options |
2.4-liter turbo I4, 2.4-liter turbo hybrid |
|
Horsepower Range, hp |
228 – 326 |
|
Torque Range, lb-ft |
243 – 465 |
|
Max Towing Capacity, lbs |
6,500 |
|
Max Payload Capacity, lbs |
1,709 |
|
Estimated Best Fuel Economy, MPG |
30 |
|
Drive Configuration |
4×2, 4×4 |
6 2023 Rivian R1T
Now, one of the best trucks from the EV scene is the Rivian R1T. A unique ride aims to provide capability, utility, and comfort for all kinds of situations, from on- to off-road. To cater to customers in need of work units, the 2023 Rivian R1T has a potent powertrain and super useful components and features. Did we mention the 350–400 miles of driving range and up to 11,000 pounds of towing capacity?
2023 Rivian R1T Price And Specifications
|
2023 Rivian R1T |
Values |
|---|---|
|
Starting MSRP Range |
$75,000 – $87,000 |
|
Propulsion System Options |
Dual-Motor or Quad-Motor |
|
Horsepower Range, hp |
533 – 835 |
|
Torque Range, lb-ft |
610 – 908 |
|
EPA – Estimated Max Range, miles |
352 |
|
Max Towing Capacity, lbs |
11,000 |
|
Max Payload Capacity, lbs |
1,764 |
|
EPA-Estimated Best Fuel Economy, MPGe |
78 |
|
Drive Configuration |
e-AWD |
5 2023 Ford F-150
Of course, the Ford F-150 – America’s best-selling pickup truck for 46 years now – makes it to our list of the best pickup trucks for work and daily drives. This vehicle sports some serious capability and allows you to configure it as you see fit, available with various powertrains, packages, features, and accessories. Of course, if you’re looking for performance, there’s the supercharged Ford F-150 Raptor R with 700 hp and 640 lb-ft of torque – the most powerful production F-150 Raptor ever.
Generally speaking, the Ford F-150 is a perfect workhorse that you can use for the most demanding jobs. Considering it also sports a refined and tech-oriented interior for daily comfort, the Ford F-150 makes an efficient and comfortable everyday ride.
2023 Ford F-150 Price And Specifications
|
2023 Ford F-150 |
Values |
|---|---|
|
Starting MSRP Range |
$33,835 – $109,145 |
|
Engine Options |
3.3-liter V6 (base) up to 5.2-liter supercharged V8 (Raptor R) |
|
Horsepower Range, hp |
290 – 700 |
|
Torque Range, lb-ft |
265 – 640 |
|
Max Towing Capacity, lbs |
14,000 |
|
Max Payload Capacity, lbs |
3,235 |
|
EPA-Estimated Best Fuel Economy, MPG |
25 |
|
Drive Configuration |
4×2, 4×4 |
4 2024 Toyota Tundra
Redesigned in 2022, the Toyota Tundra is the Japanese automotive giant’s full-size representative in the pickup truck segment. Although it hasn’t sold as well as the traditional American full-size trucks (Ford F-Series, GM Silverado and Sierra, Ram Trucks), the Toyota Tundra has established itself as a worthy competitor in the segment. Built on Toyota’s TNGA-F platform, the 2024 Toyota Tundra comes with 2 engine options – a 3.5-liter turbo V6, and a powerful hybrid powerplant based on the same V6 engine.
2024 Toyota Tundra Price And Specifications
|
2024 Toyota Tundra |
Values |
|---|---|
|
Starting MSRP Range |
$39,965 – $78,845 |
|
Engine Options |
3.4-liter Twin Turbo V6 and 3.4-liter TT Hybrid V6 |
|
Horsepower Range, hp |
358 – 437 |
|
Torque Range, lb-ft |
406 – 583 |
|
Max Towing Capacity, lbs |
12,000 |
|
Max Payload Capacity, lbs |
1,940 |
|
EPA-Estimated Best Fuel Economy, MPG |
22 |
|
Drive Configuration |
4×2, 4×4 |
3 2023 Chevrolet Silverado 1500
Refreshed in 2022, the Chevrolet Silverado is one of the most popular full-size truck nameplates in America. The half-ton Chevrolet Silverado 1500 rolls on to 2023 with a more powerful Duramax diesel engine option compared to the previous model year, but it carried over most of the other features and specifications of the 2022 redesign, including a 13.8-inch infotainment screen, a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster, driver assist and safety packages, and of course, the off-road ZR2 trim.
2023 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Price And Specifications
|
2023 Chevrolet Silverado |
Values |
|---|---|
|
Starting MSRP Range |
$36,300 – $73,395 |
|
Engine Options |
2.7-liter I4, 5.3-liter V8, 6.2-liter V8, and 3.0-liter I6 |
|
Horsepower Range, hp |
305 – 420 |
|
Torque Range, lb-ft |
348 – 495 |
|
Max Towing Capacity, lbs |
13,300 |
|
Max Payload Capacity, lbs |
2,250 |
|
EPA-Estimated Best Fuel Economy, MPG |
26 |
|
Drive Configuration |
4×2, 4×4 |
2 2023 Ram 1500
Previously called the Dodge Ram until 2010, the Ram 1500 is a good choice for an everyday pickup truck. Although not all trims are equally efficient and convenient for daily use, Ram lets you pick between various configurations and designs to find the most suitable one for your needs.
Additionally, the Ram 1500 offers a mix of traditional and modern interior touches to compliment the rugged exterior design and impressive specs. Buyers can get excited about a variety of tech, comfort, and safety features that make this pickup truck an excellent contemporary choice.
2023 Ram 1500 Price And Specifications
|
2023 Ram 1500 |
Values |
|---|---|
|
Starting MSRP Range |
$38,555 – $85,700 |
|
Engine Options |
3.6-liter V6 (base) up to 6.2-liter Supercharged V8 |
|
Horsepower Range, hp |
260 – 702 |
|
Torque Range, lb-ft |
273 – 650 |
|
Max Towing Capacity, lbs |
12,750 |
|
Max Payload Capacity, lbs |
2,300 |
|
EPA-Estimated Best Fuel Economy, MPG |
24 |
|
Drive Configuration |
4×2, 4×4 |
1 2023 Ford F-150 Lightning
Finally, the Ford F-150 Lightning – a truck with a storied name – completes this list. Alongside looking all futuristic and tech-loaded for ultimate comfort on daily rides, this all-electric pickup truck is very practical and work-friendly. With the ability to handle heavy loads, impressive cargo space, an admirable range and efficiency, and many other features and benefits, the Ford F-150 Lightning is the EV to buy for the best convenience in just about all situations.
2023 Ford F-150 Lightning Price And Specifications
|
2023 Ford F-150 Lightning |
Values |
|---|---|
|
Starting MSRP Range |
$49,995 – $91,995 |
|
Electric propulsion options |
Dual-motor, standard-range/extended range battery |
|
EPA – Estimated Range, miles |
320 |
|
Horsepower Range, hp |
426 – 563 |
|
Torque Range, lb-ft |
775 |
|
Max Towing Capacity, lbs |
10,000 |
|
Max Payload Capacity, lbs |
2,235 |
|
EPA-Estimated Best Fuel Economy, MPGe |
70 |
|
Drive Configuration |
e-AWD |
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