Savvy consumers know that buying a used truck is just smart budgeting. It’s an attractive option for those who need a truck but maybe can’t justify the price tag that comes with a brand-new model. Because buying used is such a popular trend, Edmunds offers reviews on some of the best vehicles to consider in the pre-owned market.

There’s one truck they recommend buying as it can provide up to 40% in cost savings. If you’re in the market to find a used truck this year, this model is worth a look.

Reasons to buy a used truck

You know very well that a new truck begins to lose value the second you pull off the lot. For consumers who plan to keep and maintain their truck for a few years, trade-in value down the road can be a consideration. Some folks have a budget in which only a used model makes sense.

Many times, you can buy a used truck only a year or two old, that offers all the tech, safety, and performance you need, without the hefty MSRP. It’s for these buyers, Edmunds reviewed a hotlist of the best, used vehicles to purchase.

How Edmunds determined which used trucks make the cut

In this review, Edmunds focused on today’s best, used cars by category, and more attention to 2016 models for comparison. The most desirable trucks were chosen by the Edmunds experts, along with consumer rating data, reviews, transaction history data, and current pricing. There’s one pickup that is a competent and robust contender, and worth a look if buying used is right for you.

The best model used truck to buy

The best-selling pickup in the U.S. is hands down the Ford F-150. What you may not realize is the F-150 is also one of the best truck to buy used too. There’s a healthy roster of options, from cab size to engine configuration, and competitive pricing that makes the F-150 a best-used buy. According to Edmunds, buying a 2015-2018 model year can offer up to 40% savings.

A closer look at the savings with a 2016 model pickup

This generation of F-150 offers plenty. You can find used models in almost any variation you need, ideal for working, hauling, or family comfort. The redesign in 2016 provided exciting new extras and equipment, including a menu of comfort, convenience, and safety features. The 2016 F-150 achieved a best-in-class crash test rating, as well.

The 2016 F-150 earns an Edmunds expert rating of eight out of 10. Consumer ratings have this truck topping out at 3.9 out of five. If this doesn’t sell you, the price savings might. The average transaction price for a buying a used 2016 F-150 is $30,923. Comparatively, with a similarly configured 2020 model, you could save 40% by buying used.

The 2015-2018 generation amenities

You might be wondering if buying an older model pickup means you’ll have to compromise on amenities, performance, or technology. A used truck within the 2015-2018 model years, you’ll find, offers many of the perks and options that you can find on the window sticker of a 2020 model.

You’ll still have MyFord Touch infotainment and SYNC systems capabilities with these models. You’ll also have your choice of powertrain, bed-length, and cab size. Some might say this collection of model years for F-150 is the sweet spot of pickups.

If a truck is in your foreseeable future, it’s definitely worth considering a used model. You can take advantage of significant cost savings and still get the performance and capability you need.

Of course, as you pursue your search, be mindful of mileage and conditions of the models you test-drive. If you weren’t sure what truck to consider, follow the direction of so many consumers, and Edmunds. The Ford F-150 is a best-seller, both used and new.