10 PICKUP TRUCKS THAT HOLD THEIR VALUE BEST OVER TIME
Pickup trucks are the ubiquitous American vehicles. The top three vehicles sold in America are all trucks, with many of the top ten models sharing similar qualities with a cab, bed, and high riding position. Trucks are made to get things done, whether that’s hauling a heavy trailer, carrying a load of materials for a weekend project, or taking your work crew to the job site. Pickup trucks are great for carrying the family, handling the work that needs to be done, and pulling a trailer filled with outdoor toys to your favorite destination.
Pickup trucks should hold their value over time. These vehicles are made for work and are often built to take a beating during their lifetime. That said, some trucks hold their value better than others. You might find that a larger pickup is a better investment because it should return most of its value after you’ve driven it for a few years.
What Your Pickup Truck Says About You: An Analysis of 10 Popular Models
Stereotypes aren't always accurate and often negative, but some truck models have a signature owner type, and they are nothing but awesome.
Resale value percentages were sourced from IntelliChoice for 2023 model-year trucks. General vehicle information and powertrain specifications were sourced from various automakers. This list is sorted by expected resale value percentage from lowest to highest.
Toyota Tundra
Expected Resale Value Percentage: 65.1%
The 2023 Toyota Tundra is the second year of the new generation that takes on the air of evolution over revolution. This was the first full-size pickup truck to ditch the V8 engine in favor of turbocharging and hybrid powertrains.
Most Popular Powertrain Specifications
| Engine | 3.4-liter turbocharged V6 |
| Transmission | 10-speed automatic |
| Horsepower | 389 hp |
| Torque | 479 lb-ft |
| Driveline | 4WD |
| Fuel Efficiency | 17/23 mpg |
| Payload Capacity | 1,820 pounds |
| Towing Capacity | 11,160 pounds |
Toyota’s reputation for building long-lasting and reliable vehicles ensures the Tundra has a spot among the trucks that hold their value the best over time. The Tundra can get things done and is offered in several trims to make it a great option when you want a dependable truck.
Pros
- Easy-to-use controls
- Standard composite bed limits dents and scratches
- Available 14-inch touchscreen looks great
Cons
- Base engine returns subpar fuel economy
- No trick tailgate options like in some rivals
- Rival pickups are lighter and quicker
GMC Canyon
Expected Resale Value Percentage: 65.5%
New bones and new builds were called for when GM transitioned the 2023 GMC Canyon into its latest generation. This midsize GMC truck has one powertrain, but it’s an impressive setup to give the truck plenty of power to handle all terrain, especially in the AT4X trim.
Most Popular Powertrain Specifications
| Engine | 2.7-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic |
| Horsepower | 310 hp |
| Torque | 430 lb-ft |
| Driveline | 4WD |
| Fuel Efficiency | 17/21 mpg |
| Payload Capacity | 1,550 pounds |
| Towing Capacity | 7,700 pounds |
The new design makes the Canyon look tougher than before. Much of the luxury feeling is gone, and every trim is made to handle the trails, with varying degrees of capabilities across the trims. The single build might be a turn-off for some, but it could be exactly what you need.
Pros
- Plenty of power and an impressive tow rating
- Balanced ride and handling on pavement and dirt
- Roomy interior with an excellent driving position
Cons
- Unimpressive fuel economy rating
- Single cabin style and cargo bed length
- Indecisive transmission shifting
Ford Maverick
Expected Resale Value Percentage: 65.6%
The Ford Maverick hit the scene and reinvigorated a part of the pickup truck market that had been long thought to be dead. The compact size of the 2023 Ford Maverick is all the truck that most people need, giving drivers the desired capability and efficiency in one package.
Most Popular Powertrain Specifications
| Engine | 2.5-liter 4-cylinder hybrid |
| Transmission | EVT |
| Horsepower | 191 hp |
| Torque | 173 lb-ft |
| Driveline | FWD |
| Fuel Efficiency | 40/33 mpg |
| Payload Capacity | 1,500 pounds |
| Towing Capacity | 4,000 pounds |
The Maverick might be fairly new, but it’s expected to continue to hold its value over time, making it one of the most impressive small trucks to come along in a long time. There are many ways to make this truck ideal for all of your adventures.
Pros
- Loads of equipment to enhance towing, off-roading, and safety
- Standard hybrid powertrain delivers impressive fuel efficiency figures
- Quick acceleration from the optional turbocharged engine
Cons
- Bumpy ride quality
- Interior has a low-rent feel
- Limited range of adjustment for the driver’s seat and steering wheel
The Most Reliable Used Pickup Trucks Under $15,000
From Ford, to Toyota, these models offer their dependability at a very affordable rate.
Ram 2500 HD
Expected Resale Value Percentage: 66.3%
When you’ve got some colossal jobs to do, the 2023 Ram 2500 HD could be the right truck for you. This massive beast can give you the driving power and performance that you want and need. Whether you’re pulling a travel trailer or a large machine, this truck gets the job done.
Most Popular Powertrain Specifications
| Engine | 6.4-liter V8 |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic |
| Horsepower | 410 hp |
| Torque | 429 lb-ft |
| Driveline | 4WD |
| Fuel Efficiency | N/A |
| Payload Capacity | 3,230 pounds |
| Towing Capacity | 19,170 pounds |
No matter how you trim it out, the Ram 2500 HD delivers impressive refinement and capability. This pickup truck is powerful and ready to get the job done. If you want more power than the base Hemi engine offers, you’ll want to find a version with the Cummins diesel under the hood.
Pros
- Available diesel engine generates impressive power and torque
- High-tech interior with higher trim levels
- Quiet and comfortable, especially for a large and rugged pickup truck
Cons
- Annoying engine noise from the optional diesel engine
- Some people might find the driving position too high
- High-output diesel engine is not offered on all models
Chevrolet Colorado
Expected Resale Value Percentage: 66.5%
GM upgraded the 2023 Chevrolet Colorado to give us a whole new truck with a bigger build and a more mature feeling. Every trim uses the same powertrain, but various setups are available to give you the power you want and need.
Most Popular Powertrain Specifications
| Engine | 2.7-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic |
| Horsepower | 310 hp |
| Torque | 391 lb-ft |
| Driveline | 4WD |
| Fuel Efficiency | 17/21 mpg |
| Payload Capacity | 1,580 pounds |
| Towing Capacity | 7,700 pounds |
The Colorado shares many of its qualities and features with the Canyon, but the Chevy holds its value a little better than that of the GMC model. If you want impressive off-road driving features in your midsize truck, check out the ZR2 trim.
Pros
- Quick acceleration and strong towing from upgraded engine options
- Composed ride quality for a pickup
- Highly capable ZR2 model for off-roading
Cons
- Not a lot of interior storage space for small items
- Front and rear seats aren’t as comfortable as in rival trucks
- No cab or bed options; one build is all you get
GMC Sierra HD
Expected Resale Value Percentage: 67.0%
If you want an amazing heavy-duty pickup truck that holds its value over time and gets the job done, the 2023 GMC Sierra HD lineup has what you’re after. This truck lineup features three-quarter-ton (2500) and one-ton (3500) models to give you plenty of power and capability.
Most Popular Powertrain Specifications
| Engine | 6.6-liter V8 |
| Transmission | 6-speed automatic |
| Horsepower | 401 hp |
| Torque | 464 lb-ft |
| Driveline | 4WD |
| Fuel Efficiency | N/A |
| Payload Capacity | 3,760 pounds |
| Towing Capacity | 18,500 pounds |
This truck is ready to work hard, and at higher trims, it also comes with upscale and impressive luxury qualities that make it a fantastic pickup to drive and enjoy. Whether you need to pull a large boat or trailer, the Sierra HD can easily get the job done.
Pros
- Optional diesel engine supplies plenty of power
- Helpful in-cab technology and towing camera system
- Configurable MultiPro tailgate option adds versatility
Cons
- Fall short of rivals in maximum towing and payload capacity
- Dated interior design, controls, and materials
- Prices rise fast with options
10 Pickup Trucks With Five Star Safety Ratings
Top-tier safety and rugged ability come together in these titans of the automotive industry.
Chevrolet Silverado HD
Expected Resale Value Percentage: 67.8%
A heavy-duty pickup for the big jobs is a staple of the American landscape. Many choose the Silverado HD to get things done. This truck can tow massive loads to pull everything you need to your destination. If you need more power than the gas engine offers, a Duramax diesel powertrain is available.
Most Popular Powertrain Specifications
| Engine | 6.6-liter V8 |
| Transmission | 6-speed automatic |
| Horsepower | 401 hp |
| Torque | 464 lb-ft |
| Driveline | 4WD |
| Fuel Efficiency | N/A |
| Payload Capacity | 3,760 pounds |
| Towing Capacity | 18,500 pounds |
If you’re searching for one of the heavy-duty pickup trucks that holds its value the best, the 2023 Chevrolet Silverado HD does the trick. This impressive truck has the build and qualities desired to be an amazing truck that should bring you a good return on your investment.
Pros
- Stout power and quick acceleration
- Roomy cabin with plenty of storage
- Trick 15-view camera system makes towing easier
Cons
- Dated interior design
- High, broad hood inhibits forward visibility
- Can’t match best-in-class towing and payload ratings
Ford Ranger
Expected Resale Value Percentage: 69.9%
Older versions of the Ford Ranger would be in the compact truck class today, but the 2023 Ford Ranger is a true midsize truck competitor. This pickup truck gives drivers good power and a comfortable cabin in which to enjoy the ride.
Most Popular Powertrain Specifications
| Engine | 2.3-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder |
| Transmission | 10-speed automatic |
| Horsepower | 270 hp |
| Torque | 310 lb-ft |
| Driveline | 4WD |
| Fuel Efficiency | 20/24 mph |
| Payload Capacity | 1,609 pounds |
| Towing Capacity | 7,500 pounds |
Ford offers the Ranger in a few different configurations, something different from the GM models, and the XL trim with the SuperCab could be the right choice when you’re looking for a value-oriented version of this wonderful midsize pickup truck.
Pros
- Quick acceleration from powerful turbocharged engine
- Many available modern safety features
- Better size for cities than the F-150
Cons
- Unsettling ride over undulating pavement
- Limited in-cabin storage
- Infotainment system isn’t the easiest to use
Jeep Gladiator
Expected Resale Value Percentage: 70.0%
If you want a truck that’s made for serious off-roading, the 2023 Jeep Gladiator is exactly what you’re looking for. This Jeep pickup can handle the job and pull what you need wherever you’re going. The use of a truck bed makes the Gladiator more useful than the Wrangler.
Most Popular Powertrain Specifications
| Engine | 3.6-liter V6 |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual |
| Horsepower | 285 hp |
| Torque | 260 lb-ft |
| Driveline | 4WD |
| Fuel Efficiency | 16/23 mpg |
| Payload Capacity | 1,200 pounds |
| Towing Capacity | 4,500 pounds |
When you get behind the wheel of this Jeep truck, you’re in for a rough ride on the pavement until you get to the trails, where you’ll spend your time tackling the wilderness. The removable roof and doors make it easy to get closer to nature while driving the Jeep Gladiator.
Pros
- Rugged Jeep character and off-road prowess
- The only truck available with a convertible top
- Larger back seat than other midsize trucks
Cons
- Steering is slow and vague
- Ride quality can be tough to handle
- Subpar fuel economy
Dependable Pickup Trucks That Cost Less Than The Average Price Of A New Car In 2024
While new car prices have remained at record highs since 2022, there are some durable trucks out there that undercut the inflation.
Toyota Tacoma
Expected Resale Value Percentage: 73.1%
Through thick and thin, the Tacoma has stood the test of time. If you want a pickup truck that holds its value the best over time, you want to drive the 2023 Toyota Tacoma. This midsize truck does something no other truck in its class can do: it outsells the full-size model.
Most Popular Powertrain Specifications
| Engine | 3.5-liter V6 |
| Transmission | 6-speed automatic |
| Horsepower | 278 hp |
| Torque | 265 lb-ft |
| Driveline | 4WD |
| Fuel Efficiency | 18/22 mpg |
| Payload Capacity | 1,155 pounds |
| Towing Capacity | 6,400 pounds |
The Toyota Tacoma has a fiercely loyal following, which makes it one of the most enjoyable and impressive trucks you can drive every day. The Tacoma has more than 30 variations, which means you could have a truck that’s much different from your neighbor’s model.
Pros
- Rugged off-pavement capability
- Composite truck bed has movable tie-down cleats and a power outlet
- Top-level V6can be paired with a six-speed manual transmission
Cons
- Off-road emphasis results in tall step-up height
- Steering can seem slow on pavement
- Strange seating position