Best small trucks
Small pickup trucks
Setting your sights on a small truck could boost your work-life balance and then some since they're pleasing to one and all.
We've compiled a list of the 9 best used small trucks with CarMax customers. Learn more about how our lists work.
1. Toyota Tacoma
CarMax owner rating
4.5
Pros
Useful truck bed has power outlet and moveable tie-down cleats Consummate off-road agility Six-speed manual transmission option for the V6 top trim
Cons
Steering feels heavy on urban surfaces Some will find the higher step-up a challenge
2. Nissan Frontier
CarMax owner rating
4.5
Pros
Smooth ride Stable and secure handling Helpful storage spaces for small items
Cons
Limited rear-seat space Cluttered infotainment system Heavy steering
3. Chevrolet Colorado
CarMax owner rating
4.3
Pros
Swift acceleration with upgraded engines Stout towing abilities Capable ZR2 off-road trim
Cons
Lackluster base engine power Uncomfortable rear seats Available only with a four-door cab and five-foot bed
4. Ford Maverick
CarMax owner rating
4.9
Pros
Affordable price Hybrid engines provide impressive economy Off-road Tremor package
Cons
Less towing and hauling capability than midsize rivals Only one cargo bed size Bumpy ride
5. Honda Ridgeline
CarMax owner rating
4.7
Pros
Clever bed configurations Spacious crew cab Upscale interior
Cons
Doesn't offer as much utility as similar vehicles Not very off-road focused Relatively small touchscreen
6. Jeep Gladiator
CarMax owner rating
4.7
Pros
Unique convertible truck Powerful off-road Spacious back seat
Cons
Bumpy on-road ride Disappointing acceleration No diesel option for 2024
7. Ford Ranger
CarMax owner rating
4.4
Pros
Turbocharged engine does not disappoint Dimensions make city driving easier Seating upfront is well-padded and comfortable
Cons
Climate control functionality can be frustrating Bumpy ride Cab storage options are limited
8. GMC Canyon
CarMax owner rating
4.3
Pros
Plenty of trim and feature options Sophisticated handling across diverse terrain Passenger-pleasing interior Intuitive infotainment tech
Cons
No additional cab or bed length options Doesn't go easy on fuel
9. Hyundai Santa Cruz
CarMax owner rating
4.5
Pros
Comfortable ride Capable enough for most truck buyers Lots of standard tech features
Cons
The rear seats are uncomfortable Tough to see out the back Pricier than its main rival
How we ranked this list
To create our "Best Of" lists, our analysts look at CarMax vehicle and sales data over a recent 6-month period, from September 2023 through February 2024. Looking back over a 6-month period allows for the highest sample size possible while also providing up-to-date pricing information. Some articles may include data points with lower sample sizes.
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RepairPal Reliability Ratings are based on the actual cost, frequency, and severity of unscheduled repairs and maintenance on make/model data for select 2006-2020 vehicles. The reliability of a specific vehicle may vary depending on its maintenance and driving history, model year, trim, and features. RepairPal Reliability Ratings are provided by RepairPal and CarMax is not responsible for their accuracy.
Fuel economy figures are based on EPA estimates for when vehicle sold as new. Fuel economy may vary for reasons like driving conditions and vehicle history. Unless specified, figures are for vehicles equipped with an automatic transmission. See fueleconomy.gov.
Range figures are based on EPA estimates for when vehicle sold as new and assume a full battery charge. Range will vary based on things like battery age, vehicle condition and history, driving and charging habits, accessory use, and driving conditions. Battery capacity may decrease with time and use. See fueleconomy.gov for more info.
Ready to find your truck?
We hope you found this information helpful. This content is intended to inform and is not meant to provide legal, financial or investment advice. We make every effort to provide accurate information, but please verify before transacting and consider talking to a qualified professional about your unique circumstances.
Statements of fuel economy or EV range are based on EPA and other third-party estimates for vehicles when new. Fuel economy and EV range will degrade with time and vary based on age, driving conditions, vehicle history, and other conditions. See fueleconomy.gov for more info.
Unless otherwise noted, information related to featured vehicles comes from third-party sources, including manufacturer information. Product and company names may be trademarks or registered trademarks of third-party entities. Use of them does not imply any affiliation with or endorsement by these entities.