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Pickups these days are expensive. In fact, there are several models on the market today that will have you spending upwards of $30,000. But if you’re shopping on a budget and don’t want to spend more than that? These models make up some of the best affordable new pickup trucks under $30,000, TrueCar reports.

The 2021 Nissan Frontier is an affordable new pickup that won’t break the bank

A 2021 Nissan Frontier at sunset, one of the best affordable new pickups under $30,000
2021 Nissan Frontier | Nissan

When it comes to shopping for an affordable new pickup under $30,000, the 2021 Nissan Frontier is one of the best options, TrueCar reports. This year’s model starts at $27,190 and will have you spending roughly $37,890 at its most expensive. An affordable base price isn’t all this new pickup truck has to offer, either.

As a matter of fact, when properly equipped, this affordable new pickup can tow a maximum of 6,720-pounds. It also boasts a maximum payload capacity of 1,460-pounds. In addition, TrueCar reports that its sturdy build quality is ideal for serious jobs too. Perhaps the only downside to the 2021 Nissan Frontier is that ride quality isn’t the best. Its “interior design lags the category,” too, reports TrueCar.

The 2021 GMC Canyon is one of the best new pickup trucks under $30,000

A white 2021 GMC Canyon AT4 Off-Road Performance Edition
2021 GMC Canyon | GMC

TrueCar also highlighted the 2021 GMC Canyon as one of the best new pickup trucks under $30,000. This year’s model starts at $26,800. Opt for the range-topping Canyon Denali, and you can expect to spend at least $41,200 on this year’s model. Much like the 2021 Nissan Frontier, the GMC Canyon has more going for it than a low base price.

TrueCar reports that this year’s model offers up excellent towing and hauling capabilities. At its strongest, this affordable new pickup can tow a maximum of 7,700-pounds. This year’s model also offers up a comfortable interior with plenty of space for passengers. Its tech is pretty easy to use, too, reports TrueCar. 

The 2021 Chevy Colorado is a good option for budget-conscious shoppers

An orange 2021 Chevy Colorado
2021 Chevy Colorado Z71 | Chevrolet

The 2021 Chevy Colorado is one of the best affordable new pickup trucks under $30,000, reports TrueCar. Starting at just $25,200, this year’s model is a good option for even the most budget-conscious shoppers. Opting for the range-topping ZR2 will, however, have you spending upwards of $41,600. The good news is you can count on this pickup to come pretty well outfitted.

In fact, available with a Duramax 2.8-liter diesel engine, this affordable new pickup can haul up to 7,000-pounds. It also boasts a max payload rating of 1,550-pounds. And when it comes to features? The 2021 Chevy Colorado aims to please with tech-savvy amenities like available Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as an available 4G LTE Wi-Fi Hotspot.

The 2021 Toyota Tacoma is an affordable new pickup packed with features

A green 2021 Toyota Tacoma, one of the best affordable new pickups under $30,000
2021 Toyota Tacoma | Toyota

The Toyota Tacoma is one of the best-known pickups among its segment. The 2021 model is also one of the best affordable new pickups under $30,000. With a base price of $26,400, this year’s new Toyota Tacoma is “tough, compact, and packed with features,” too, reports TrueCar.

Available with a 3.5-liter V6 engine and a six-speed manual transmission, this year’s Tacoma is rated to tow up to 6,800-pounds. Opt for a Tacoma TRD Pro, and this affordable new pickup is also more than capable of spending the day off-roading. And when it comes to features? This year’s model can be had with sought-after features like Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa.

The 2021 Ford Ranger is the best new pickup truck under $30,000

2021 Ford Ranger in red, on the trails
2021 Ford Ranger | Ford

As for the best affordable new pickup under $30,000? TrueCar chose the 2021 Ford Ranger. This year’s model starts at $25,070. At its most expensive, the Ford Ranger will cost you roughly $33,160. For those in the market for an affordable new pickup, the Ranger’s price isn’t all that steep.

An affordable base price isn’t the only reason TrueCar included the new Ford Ranger in its list, either. The organization was also impressed by the pickup’s 7,500-pound maximum towing capacity and its smooth and powerful four-cylinder turbo engine.

Buying a new pickup truck doesn’t have to be expensive

When it comes to shopping for an affordable new pickup, there are plenty of options under $30,000. Whether you opt for the 2021 Toyota Tacoma or find yourself lusting after the 2021 GMC Canyon, there’s no shortage of new pickups under $30,000 to choose from. 

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