Trucks are among the most versatile vehicles on the road today, but their real value isn’t just in towing, hauling, or off-roading it’s in how well they hold up over time. In a market where depreciation can quickly erode your investment, some pickups manage to retain over 60% of their original value even five years down the line.
This list spotlights 10 affordable trucks from 2023 that stand out for their long-term value. Whether you’re looking for a compact city runabout or a heavy-duty workhorse, these trucks are wise choices for anyone who wants to spend smart and hold on to value.
1. Toyota Tacoma: The Value Retention Leader
Despite its outdated design and underwhelming tech, the 2023 Toyota Tacoma leads the pack in resale value at 73.1%. Known for its legendary reliability, the Tacoma continues to attract buyers who prioritize durability over creature comforts.
Though it’s cramped, inefficient, and shows its age, its reputation keeps demand strong in the used market. With a completely redesigned 2024 model arriving soon, the 2023 version still holds strong. For value-focused buyers, the Tacoma offers peace of mind and proven worth even if it’s no longer class-leading in performance or innovation.
2. Jeep Gladiator: Rugged Charm with Staying Power
The 2023 Jeep Gladiator blends the Jeep Wrangler’s off-road DNA with pickup utility, creating a uniquely desirable truck. With a resale value of 70.0%, it excels at keeping its worth. Its appeal lies in removable doors, open-air freedom, and distinctive design.
Though it’s not ideal for serious towing or luxury interiors, its adventure-ready character resonates with buyers. The base Gladiator Sport holds 71%, while even the rugged Rubicon hovers near 70%.
This truck is for those who value personality and off-road fun as much as long-term investment potential making it a standout in the resale game.
3. Chevrolet Silverado HD: Utility that Pays Off
For those who need serious towing muscle without losing their shirts on depreciation, the 2023 Chevrolet Silverado HD is a solid pick. Retaining 67.8% of its value, this heavy-duty truck balances work-readiness with good resale. Entry-level Work Truck, LT, and LTZ trims perform best, topping 69%.
Even the upscale High Country version holds steady at 65%. Designed to do real jobs without excessive frills, the Silverado HD is more than just muscle it’s smart money for buyers who want capability and value retention in one durable package.
4. Ford Maverick: Compact Size, Big Savings
The 2023 Ford Maverick continues to turn heads as a compact truck with a budget-friendly price and high resale value averaging 65.6%. Its hybrid model offers impressive fuel economy, while its truck bed and smart design make it perfect for city dwellers or weekend DIYers.
The base XL FWD hybrid tops the charts at 67.5%, and the adventurous Tremor AWD follows closely at 67.3%. Whether you’re downsizing from a full-size pickup or upgrading from an SUV, the Maverick offers capability, efficiency, and long-term savings, proving that great things do come in smaller, more affordable packages.
5. GMC Sierra HD: Balanced Luxury and Strength
For buyers who want their truck to be both tough and classy, the 2023 GMC Sierra HD delivers. It retains 67.0% of its original value on average, making it a solid financial decision in the heavy-duty segment.
While Denali models appeal to luxury-minded buyers and hold about 65%, the real value champions are the midrange 3500 SLT trims, with retention surpassing 68%.
The Sierra HD’s blend of refined styling and rugged ability makes it a dual-purpose vehicle that performs equally well on job sites and date nights all while holding strong in the resale market.
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6. Chevrolet Colorado: Redesigned and Resale-Ready
With its bold new redesign, the 2023 Chevrolet Colorado brings style, functionality, and value into a single midsize package. Holding 66.5% of its value, this versatile truck sees its best performance in the entry-level Work Truck trim with 4WD, which retains 68.5%.
Built with a single crew cab, short bed configuration and a four-cylinder engine, the new Colorado is more feature-rich and youthful than its predecessor. The trail-ready ZR2, though slightly lower at 65.4%, still holds up well. For drivers wanting a stylish midsize truck with long-term value, the Colorado makes a compelling case.
7. Ram 2500 HD: Heavy-Duty Value That Lasts
If you’re after a heavy-duty truck with upscale appeal and lasting value, the 2023 Ram 2500 HD is a smart bet. With an average resale retention of 66.3%, this truck combines power, polish, and practicality. The best performers are the Lone Star and Big Horn Mega Cab trims, holding 68.5%.
Even the Laramie and off-road Rebel trims retain close to the average. The Ram 2500’s muscular build, refined cabin, and strong powertrains make it a standout for long-term owners who need serious capability without compromising on interior quality and overall refinement.
8. GMC Canyon: Small Truck, Strong Performer
The 2023 GMC Canyon is redesigned with a tougher stance and improved features, earning it a 65.5% resale value. Available only in a crew cab, short bed setup, the Canyon caters to everyday users and off-roaders alike.
The AT4 trim holds the most value at 67.9%, while the luxury Denali trim and budget Elevation models also perform well between 64% and 66%. Its appealing design and upgraded tech make it a practical midsize option with enduring worth.
Whether you’re seeking adventure or weekday functionality, the Canyon proves that smaller trucks can still deliver big-time value retention.
9. Toyota Tundra: Reliable and Resale-Savvy
Toyota’s 2023 Tundra lives up to its reputation for dependability, retaining 65.1% of its original value. Redesigned in 2022, the Tundra features bold styling, a modern interior, and a hybrid option. While it may not lead the class in towing or ride comfort, its resale strength is driven by Toyota’s brand loyalty.
The SR Crew Cab with RWD and short bed retains a notable 73.8%, while the TRD Pro dips to 63.6%. For those looking for long-lasting quality from a full-size truck, the Tundra is a reliable pick that rewards smart buyers with strong resale.
10. GMC Hummer EV: Electric and Unexpected
While it may not be your typical work truck, the 2023 GMC Hummer EV Pickup earns a place on this list with a resale value of 65.0%. Built more for showmanship and thrills than practicality, the Hummer EV turns heads with its size, power, and futuristic electric platform.
Though not great at towing or payload, its status as a pop-culture icon and limited First Edition production help preserve its value. As GM’s flagship electric truck, the Hummer EV offers a unique blend of off-road capability, speed, and style making it one of the more surprising trucks with long-term value retention.
Choosing an affordable truck isn’t just about what you pay upfront it’s about what you get back down the line. These 10 trucks prove that with the right brand, configuration, and use case, it’s possible to enjoy years of dependable service and still hold on to a major portion of your original investment.
Whether you’re drawn to electric innovation, compact practicality, or heavy-duty might, there’s a truck on this list for every budget and lifestyle. In the long run, smart truck buyers know that value retention isn’t just a bonus it’s a key part of buying wisely.
