Are you currently searching for your next truck? If so, it can be an exciting process. That is until you see the price tag on new cars these days. You may be able to afford a base model, but what about all the high-tech features you want and need? What if we told you, it’s possible to jump behind the wheel of an affordable truck with plenty of features for a low price? U.S. News says going with a Ford truck would be your best bet.

What brand of truck is the most affordable?

The answer to this question may surprise you, but it’s true—Ford has two models at the top of the list for the 3 cheapest pickup trucks in 2023 according to U.S. News. 

The 2023 Ford Maverick and Ranger come in at the lowest price points for their respective pickup truck classes. The 2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz also earned a top spot. Let’s take a look at what these trucks have to offer and why they’re so affordable.

The 2023 Ford Maverick

$22,195 – $27,955 MSRP

The 2023 Maverick is an all-new model from Ford that offers a unique blend of features and affordability. Under the hood, you’ll find the 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and an electric motor with a combined 191 horsepower and 155 pound-feet of torque. 

Plus, the Maverick can haul up to 1,500 pounds and tow up to 2,000 pounds. Entry-level models include an 8-inch touchscreen, a six-speaker stereo, Bluetooth connectivity, two USB ports, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and Apple CarPlay & Android Auto compatibility.

The 2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz

$25,450 – $40,320 MSRP

The 2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz also makes the list for being one of the most affordable pickups on the market today. This 5-passenger compact pickup truck comes with a 2.5L 4-cylinder engine that produces 191 horsepower and 181 pound-feet of torque. 

It’s mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission. Standard features include 18-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights and taillights, and Apple CarPlay & Android Auto integration.

The 2023 Ford Ranger

$27,400 – $40,945 MSRP

Finally, there’s the 2023 Ford Ranger. According to U.S News, “All 2023 Ranger models are powered by a 270-horsepower turbo-four engine paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission.” 

Rear-wheel drive models get an EPA-estimated 20 to 21 mpg in the city and 26 mpg out on the highway. Inside, the base model comes equipped with a 3.5-inch infotainment display, a four-speaker audio system, Bluetooth connectivity, a USB port, and a Wi-Fi hot spot—all while still maintaining its relatively low sticker price.

Which cheap 2023 pickup truck is right for me?

When it comes to finding an affordable pickup truck option in 2023, it looks like Ford models are leading the pack! Both the Ford Maverick and the Ranger are some of the most cost-effective options available without sacrificing quality or performance. 

With great options available from both Ford and Hyundai, there is bound to be a truck out there that fits your driving needs perfectly—no matter what your budget is.