Trucks are built for one primary reason: to work. That fact remains unchanged, regardless of how many SUV-based, unibody pickups make their way into showrooms. The core function of these vehicles is simple—to help you accomplish tasks.
Whether that means transporting materials for a weekend DIY project or hauling heavy-duty machinery to a job site to transform the surrounding area, the mission stays the same. Like nearly every other type of vehicle, pickup trucks have seen a significant rise in cost over the years.
While it may seem like most models are now priced out of reach, there are still options on the market that come in under the $50,000 mark. These trucks stand out as some of the most budget-friendly choices you can still get your hands on.
2024 Toyota Tacoma
The 2024 Toyota Tacoma comes with a turbocharged four-cylinder engine across all versions, and the i-Force Max trims add a hybrid motor for additional power and enhanced capability. This model is more comfortable than previous versions, making it a significant improvement. T
he Tacoma offers a 2.4-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, producing 278 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque. It has a 4WD driveline, achieving a fuel efficiency of 19/23 mpg, with a payload capacity of 1,380 pounds and a towing capacity of 6,400 pounds.
Toyota has introduced the Trailhunter trim to meet the demands of off-road enthusiasts, offering a more enjoyable off-roading experience. The Tacoma also stands out with a manual transmission option, something that’s becoming rare in modern trucks.
Pros include a wide range of trims and configurations, capable off-road performance with TRD versions, and strong power from the hybrid powertrain.
However, the back seat is smaller compared to some rivals, the engine can be noisy under hard acceleration, and the towing capacity is considered less impressive by some.
2024 GMC Canyon
The 2024 GMC Canyon is designed for off-road adventure, with every model equipped for tackling trails. While the base Elevation trim offers rear-wheel drive, all other trims feature standard 4WD, enhancing their off-road capabilities. The Canyon boasts a spacious and well-designed cabin suitable for all types of roads.
Powered by a 2.7-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine, it delivers 310 horsepower and 430 lb-ft of torque, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. The Canyon has a 4WD driveline, fuel efficiency of 18/25 mpg, a payload capacity of 1,550 pounds, and an impressive towing capacity of 7,700 pounds.
GMC also offers the extreme AT4X AEV version, which is equipped with off-road equipment from American Expedition Vehicles, making it a top choice for serious off-roading. Additionally, lower trims now include an 11-inch digital gauge display, which elevates the driving experience.
The Canyon’s pros include strong towing capabilities, excellent power, a balanced ride on both pavement and dirt, and a roomy interior with a great driving position. However, the high base price, limited cab and bed options, and poorer fuel economy compared to the discontinued V6 are some of its drawbacks.
2024 Chevrolet Colorado
The 2024 Chevrolet Colorado stands out as a midsize truck that remains affordable, with every trim level priced below $50,000. For those seeking a more rugged off-road experience, the ZR2 Bison model is the ultimate choice, featuring the AEV upgrades that give it similar off-road capabilities to the Canyon AT4X AEV.
The 2024 model continues with a 2.7-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, delivering 310 horsepower and 430 lb-ft of torque. It features a 4WD driveline, achieving a fuel efficiency of 18/25 mpg, with a payload capacity of 1,550 pounds and a towing capacity of 7,700 pounds.
Chevy simplified the powertrain options by eliminating one power level, offering only two choices for this midsize truck. While the 2024 model doesn’t introduce major changes, it’s mostly a carryover from the 2023 generational update.
Pros of the Colorado include quick acceleration and strong towing performance from the upgraded engine options, a composed ride quality for a pickup, and the highly capable ZR2 off-road model. However, the base power setup can sound coarse and lacks power, the rear seats are not very comfortable, and there’s only one configuration for the cab and bed.
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2024 Toyota Tundra
The 2024 Toyota Tundra starts at $42,015 and offers a towing capacity of 11,200 pounds. For those who want their Tundra to stand taller, there’s an available factory-installed three-inch lift kit, enhancing its off-road capability and giving it a more commanding presence.
The Tundra is powered by a 3.4-liter turbocharged V6 engine, mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission, producing 389 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque. It features a 4WD driveline and achieves a fuel efficiency of 17/23 mpg, with a payload capacity of 1,820 pounds and a towing capacity of 11,200 pounds.
This new version of the Tundra is the first Toyota truck to completely replace the V8 engine with a smaller, turbocharged V6, marking a shift towards forced induction for better power and efficiency. The Tundra is known for its reliability and strength, making it a versatile choice for those who need a truck that can handle both work and play.
The Tundra’s pros include smooth power from the turbocharged V6 engine, user-friendly controls, and a standard composite bed that resists dents and scratches. On the downside, the base engine isn’t as fuel-efficient as expected, it lacks a trick tailgate option that some competitors offer, and the rear seating can feel tight compared to rivals.
2024 Ram 1500
The 2024 Ram 1500 is a great choice if you’re looking for a work truck that starts under $50,000, while also offering one of the best cabins available in the market.
This powerful and rugged truck provides the necessary equipment and driving experience you need. The 2024 Ram 1500 comes with a 5.7-liter V8 mild hybrid engine, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, delivering 395 horsepower and 410 lb-ft of torque.
It features a rear-wheel drive (RWD) driveline, fuel efficiency of 18/23 mpg, a payload capacity of 1,730 pounds, and an impressive towing capacity of 12,750 pounds. The Ram 1500 is available in various trims and power levels, which allows you to choose the best model for your needs.
If you’re seeking a truck with excellent ride comfort and handling, this is an ideal option. The Ram 1500’s pros include a spacious and quiet interior, with plenty of tech features, electrified V6 and V8 engine options, and the addition of optional RamBox integrated bed storage bins.
However, it does fall short in the towing technology department, has driver assist technology as an optional feature rather than standard, and lacks a full hybrid powertrain for providing power at the worksite.
2024 Chevrolet Silverado 1500
The 2024 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 is typically the second-most popular truck, trailing only behind the Ford F-150. Available in several trims and powertrain options, including a turbocharged diesel engine, this Silverado offers versatility for various tasks.
The Silverado 1500 is powered by a 6.2-liter V8 engine, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, producing 420 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque. It has a 4WD driveline, a fuel efficiency of 16/21 mpg, a payload capacity of 2,280 pounds, and a towing capacity of 13,300 pounds.
While you won’t find the highest towing capacity for under $50,000, the base engine still provides up to 9,500 pounds of towing capacity, making it a reasonable choice for getting work done, along with better fuel mileage.
The Silverado’s pros include a variety of powertrains that meet a wide range of towing and hauling needs, a long cabin that offers excellent rear legroom, and ample in-bed tie-down points, along with a massive bed capacity.
However, some of its cons include a rougher ride compared to its main competitors, the ZR2 off-road trim not matching competitors for off-road capability, and a nice screen that is integrated into an otherwise average interior.
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2024 Ram HD 2500
The 2024 Ram HD 2500 is an excellent value-oriented work truck that starts under $50,000, making it an affordable option for those in need of a heavy-duty pickup capable of handling significant jobs.
This three-quarter-ton truck is equipped with either a coil spring or air suspension in the rear to ensure a smooth and comfortable ride, even when working with heavy loads.
Powered by a 6.4-liter V8 engine paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, it delivers 410 horsepower and 429 lb-ft of torque.
The truck features a 4WD driveline, with a payload capacity of 6,320 pounds and a towing capacity of 19,980 pounds, making it ideal for tasks that require immense towing power. Whether you’re pulling a large travel trailer, heavy machinery, or a full trailer of equipment, the Ram HD 2500 is a reliable choice.
The truck is well-suited for tough job sites where strength is a must. The Ram HD 2500’s pros include the availability of a diesel engine that generates impressive power and torque, a high-tech interior at higher trim levels, and a quiet and comfortable ride, particularly for such a large and rugged vehicle.
On the downside, the optional diesel engine can produce annoying engine noise, the driving position may feel too high for some, and parking can be quite challenging due to the truck’s size.
2024 Ford Super Duty F-250
The 2024 Ford Super Duty F-250 stands as one of the most formidable mass-produced trucks in the world. This exceptionally tough and versatile truck offers numerous ways to meet the demands of both work and recreation.
With excellent power and performance, it is built to tackle even the biggest jobs. The F-250 is equipped with a 7.3-liter V8 engine, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, generating 430 horsepower and 485 lb-ft of torque.
The truck features a 4WD driveline, a payload capacity of 3,923 pounds, and an outstanding towing capacity of 22,000 pounds.
The XLT Premium model comes with a standard navigation system, helping you stay on track without relying on your smartphone. This truck is built to haul and tow heavy loads with ease, making it perfect for both work and play.
The F-250’s pros include a spacious and comfortable cabin, excellent towing and hauling capabilities, and a wealth of available tech to simplify towing.
However, its cons include a quickly escalating price tag, a tall ride height that makes it hard to enter without side steps, and top trims that aren’t as refined as those of its Ram competitors.
2024 GMC Sierra 1500
The 2024 GMC Sierra 1500 is well-known for its towing capabilities, but its most intriguing feature lies in the new diesel engine option. This powertrain offers more power than before, making the Sierra 1500 even more capable of handling any road or trail.
The truck is powered by a 6.2-liter V8 engine, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, producing 420 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque. It features a 4WD driveline, achieving a fuel efficiency of 16/21 mpg, a payload capacity of 2,280 pounds, and a towing capacity of 13,300 pounds.
While there are some revised features for the 2024 Sierra 1500, the truck remains affordable at lower trims, coming in under $50,000. However, the Denali Ultimate and AT4X AEV trims drive the price up, making this a versatile truck that can cater to the needs of many drivers.
The Sierra 1500’s pros include a wide range of powertrains to accommodate different towing and hauling needs, a massive bed capacity, and a touchscreen display that is both attractive and easy to use.
However, some downsides include a rougher ride compared to most other trucks, higher trims being quite expensive, and the broad hood and thick roof pillars, which can reduce visibility.
2024 Ford F-150
The 2024 Ford F-150 holds the title of the most popular half-ton truck on the market and continues to dominate with the highest towing and payload capacities in its class. This makes it the ideal choice for heavy-duty jobs.
The F-150 also stands out with its updated styling and impressive technology, which enhance its appeal and functionality. It is equipped with a 3.5-liter twin-turbocharged V6 engine, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, producing 400 horsepower and 500 lb-ft of torque.
It features a 4WD driveline, offering a fuel efficiency of 16/24 mpg, a payload capacity of 2,455 pounds, and a towing capacity of 13,500 pounds. The F-150 has maintained its dominance for over 40 years, remaining the best-selling model in its class and the top-selling vehicle in America.
Its pros include a wide selection of engines, including hybrid and all-electric options, high towing and payload capacities, and truck-friendly features like an onboard generator.
On the flip side, the interior storage could be more versatile and spacious, the optional hybrid powertrain can be noisy when powering the onboard generator, and the truck can get expensive quickly as you move up through the trims.