If you're in the market for a used pickup truck, narrowing down the options can feel daunting, but starting with a few well-regarded models can make all the difference. Here, we take a look at six standout choices: the Ford Maverick, Ram 1500, Ford F-150, Rivian R1T, and Toyota Tacoma. Each of these has earned strong marks from Car and Driver, and by understanding their strengths and trade-offs, you can make a smarter decision when shopping for a used vehicle.
1. Ford Maverick
- Car and Driver Rating: 10/10
- MPG: 25–37 mpg (real-world hybrid variants have been reported at ~33 mpg on average)
The Ford Maverick is a game-changer in the used pickup market, especially for buyers who want efficiency over brute force. As a compact unibody truck, it doesn’t haul like a full-size workhorse — but that’s part of its charm. Its hybrid version delivers outstanding fuel economy, and even its gas-powered EcoBoost variant is remarkably frugal for a pickup.
Sales of the Maverick are surging: in Q3 2024, deliveries rose by 33% compared to the same quarter in 2023, highlighting strong demand for its unique blend of usability and efficiency. That means there’s growing availability in the used market, and you may be able to find gently used units that offer great value.
For someone using their truck primarily for daily driving, commuting, or light-duty hauling, the Maverick is hard to beat, especially if fuel economy is a top priority.
2. Ram 1500
- Car and Driver Rating: 10/10
- MPG: 17–22 mpg
The Ram 1500 is often praised for its refined ride, comfortable cabin, and premium feel, qualities that make it feel more like a luxury vehicle than a workhorse. Its coil-spring rear suspension contributes to a smoother ride compared to many leaf-spring trucks.
One thing to note: used Ram 1500 models hold their value well. According to
MotorBiscuit, some retain as much as 92% of their original value after five years, while average retention is around 65.8%, making them a smart choice for buyers concerned with depreciation. On top of that, J.D. Power gives certain Ram 1500 models a reliability score of 80/100, suggesting that a well-maintained one can last well beyond 200,000 miles.
If you want a used truck that feels premium and drives smoothly, the Ram 1500 is one of the best full-size options out there.
3. Ford F-150
- Car and Driver Rating: 9/10
- MPG: 13–25 mpg
The Ford F-150 is practically a household name, versatile, reliable, and ubiquitous. As one of the best-selling trucks ever, it's easy to find used examples across a wide range of model years, trims, and powertrains.
While it doesn’t offer the same fuel economy as smaller trucks like the Maverick, the F-150’s strength lies in its capability. Depending on the generation and engine, you can get strong towing capacity, lots of bed options, and a variety of configurations. For a buyer who wants a workhorse that can double as a daily driver, a used F-150 remains a top-tier pick.
4. Rivian R1T
- Car and Driver Rating: 9/10
- Driving Range: 274–410 miles
The Rivian R1T represents a newer frontier in the used-truck market: electric pickups. With a driving range between 274 and 410 miles, depending on battery pack, it's not just eco-friendly, it’s practical for adventure seekers.
Because Rivian is still a relatively young company, used R1Ts are less common than traditional gas trucks, but they’re gaining traction. Enthusiasts report that resale values remain strong; some owners on forums have noted that their R1Ts are holding value better than typical EVs.
If you’re open to electric, want torque out of every corner, and don’t mind paying a premium, a used R1T can be a compelling and forward-looking option.
5. Toyota Tacoma
- Car and Driver Rating: 9/10
- MPG: 20–24 mpg
The
Toyota Tacoma pickup truck is a staple in the midsize truck world. Known for its rugged reliability and longevity, the Tacoma often serves owners well for hundreds of thousands of miles. Its fuel economy is modest for a midsize, in the range of 20 to 24 mpg, but many buyers accept this trade-off for its durability.
Another strong point: resale value. According to
data, the Tacoma retains value much better than some rivals. For example, compared to the Rivian R1T, the Tacoma’s 5-year depreciation rate is only 28.5%, versus 57.8% for the R1T, giving the Tacoma a strong resale advantage.
If you want a tried-and-true used truck that can handle work, weekend adventures, and hold its value over time, the
Toyota Tacoma pickup truck should be near the top of your list.
6. Why These Picks Make Sense
Here’s why starting your used truck search with these six models, the Ford Maverick, Ram 1500, Ford F‑150, Rivian R1T, and Toyota Tacoma pickup truck, is a smart move:
Diverse Use Cases: Whether you want economy (Maverick), luxury ride (Ram), towing power (F-150), electric performance (R1T), or long-term reliability (Tacoma), there’s something here for almost every use case.
Resale and Depreciation: Several of these trucks retain value well, meaning less risk when buying used.
Fuel Efficiency: From hybrid Maverick to electric R1T, these trucks offer a spectrum of efficiency depending on your priorities.
Availability: Because these models are popular, you’re more likely to find good used examples in a variety of years and trims.
Conclusion
If your goal is to
find a used pickup truck that fits your lifestyle, start your search with the Ford Maverick, Ram 1500, Ford F-150, Rivian R1T, and
Toyota Tacoma pickup truck. Each offers a compelling balance of performance, value, and reliability. Take the time to test drive different options, check maintenance records, and weigh long-term costs, but you’ll be well-positioned to make a decision that makes sense for your needs.
By focusing on these well-reviewed models, you’re not just picking a truck; you’re building a foundation for years of reliable driving.
