Skip to main content

Kelley Blue Book compiled a list of the cheapest pickup trucks 2021 has to offer. These 2021 trucks for sale might not be so cheap if a redesign happens next year, so jump in the deal if it looks good. Plus, why not have a new truck for your summertime adventures?

Is the Ford Ranger a good pickup truck?

The 2021 Ford Ranger pickup truck
The 2021 Ford Ranger pickup truck is one of Kelley Blue Book’s picks | Ford

Kelley Blue Book picked the 2021 Ford Ranger as the cheapest truck you can buy this year. Some of the highlights include that the Ranger has a 7,500-pound tow rating while still getting good fuel economy. It comes with a powerful engine and has a best-in-class payload. Since it is a 2021 model, it has all of the newest technology and features a truck can offer. The Ranger also won the KBB the 5-Year Cost to Own Award for 2021. The estimated cost is $40,532, about $2,308 less than similar trucks.

Some of the downsides include having only one engine/transmission combination and limited bed/cab configurations.

2021 Ford Ranger price: $25,070

What is the best year for the Toyota Tacoma truck?

The 2021 Toyota Tacoma is known for holding its value well over the years. Not to mention the fact that Toyota has a reputation for being reliable. The Tacoma has various ways to customize the truck between beds, trim levels, and other specs. It can go off-road but won’t bore you driving long distances on the highway, either.

The Tacoma hasn’t had a refresh in a while, but that means the design has stood the test of time. Kelley Blue Book gave it the Best Resale Value Award and the Best Buy Award for 2021. Not bad, Toyota.

2021 Toyota Tacoma price: $26,400

What’s better, the Ford Ranger or Chevy Colorado?

If you are looking for a solid choice, the 2021 Chevy Colorado is your truck. The Colorado has various engine options and trim levels to choose from, plus a low cost of ownership overall. It has a diesel engine option and was recently redesigned. KBB says the Colorado is comfortable but handles well on the roads and has best-in-class towing.

To get some of the more modern safety features, you might have to level up on the trim. And although it made the list of cheap trucks to buy, it won’t be the cheapest if you go up the trim ladder.

2021 Chevy Colorado price: $25,000

Are Nissan Frontiers any good?

If you are on the fence about the 2021 Nissan Frontier, maybe this is a good time to consider it. The Frontier is scheduled for a full redesign in 2022, so this is a good time to get a good deal on the truck. Kelley Blue Book says the engine is smooth and powerful.

However, the Frontier looks a bit dated, inside and out. The safety features are lacking, including the small infotainment system. You might be able to get a good deal on the Frontier as we head into the second part of the year.

2021 Nissan Frontier price: $27,190

Kelley Blue Book has a variety of trucks on the list, but these are some of the best deals. Since these trucks are new, you can configure it however will fit your needs. The cost of ownership tends to be lower on a new car or truck anyway, which means you can count on your new vehicle.

Best in Trucks
Avatar photo
Staff Writer

Amanda Cline

Amanda Cline is an avid fan of Formula 1 and joined MotorBiscuit in 2021. A Southwest Floridian, she easily and often finds automotive events to attend in the Tampa, Orlando, and Miami areas.
Amanda is a graduate of the University of Central Florida, where she earned a Bachelor’s in English Literature and a Master’s in Technical Communication. Combining her editorial and digital media expertise, Amanda served as a content creator for FanSided and now provides our readers with a variety of automotive subject matter like pickup trucks and SUVs, including valuable consumer advice.

Amanda closely follows many F1 drivers, including Lewis Hamilton, George Russell, and the Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team. Her all-time favorite author is Shel Silverstein.