Skip to main content

Finding a deal on a new truck can be challenging these days. It doesn’t help that only two pickup trucks start under $30,000, which may limit buying options. If you need a new ride without making your wallet cry then welcome to the compact segment. 

Only 2 pickup trucks are available for under $30,000 

If you want to save with a brand-new truck, then it might be time to think small. Only two pickup trucks start for only $30,000 and they’re compact models. 

However, some people claim that they aren’t real trucks because of their unibody designs. But hey, they still have practical truck beds. 

Anyways, the first option is the 2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz. It starts at $28,235, including the $1,335 destination fee. The top-spec 2.5T Limited trim takes the price up to $42,655. There are two engine options and five trim levels. 

Next up, is the 2024 Ford Maverick. It starts at $25,515, including the $1,595 destination fee. The top-level Lariat trim takes the price up to $36,555. It has two engine options, including a hybrid unit and three trim levels. 

The 2024 Ford Maverick parked near a home
2024 Ford Maverick | Ford

Of course, the Maverick seems a better deal because it’s cheaper. However, the hybrid engine can’t be paired with AWD and may have higher markups due to increased demand. 

Also, the Santa Cruz is a little more specious, more comfortable, quieter, and has more advanced tech. 

The standard 2024 Santa Cruz engine is a 2.5-liter four-cylinder option with 191 hp and 181 lb-ft of torque. 

Upgrade to the turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine for 281 hp and 311 lb-ft of torque. When properly equipped, it can tow up to 5,000 lbs and carry a payload of up to 1,411 bs. 

The standard 2024 Maverick engine is a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with 250 hp and 277 lb-ft of torque. Upgrade to the hybrid system for a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that’s paired with an electric motor to generate 191 hp and 155 lb-ft of torque. 

When properly equipped, the Maverick can tow up to 4,000 lbs and carry a payload of up to 1,554 lbs. I recommend giving both pickup trucks a test drive.

Best in Trucks
Avatar photo
Staff Writer

Allison Barfield

Allison Barfield joined MotorBiscuit in 2020 and covers all things trucks, SUVs, and Jeeps. Having grown up on a farm in Rock Hill, South Carolina, she’s no stranger to the “Best in Class” truck and SUV debates; people in her hometown were always gathering to help work on vehicles together, and deliberation would naturally arise.

Allison graduated from the University of South Carolina with a degree in Media Arts. She has helped bring awareness to issues Women In Trucking face and has promoted Truckers Against Trafficking, an anti-trafficking NGO.

A fan of creatively dark literature, Allison appreciates the works of Shirley Jackson and Emily Dickenson. She lives in a mountainous area of the country and enjoys off-roading and camping. Her dog, Bruce, often joins her in testing trucks and SUVs for our site.