Not every vehicle can do the job of a truck, especially when it comes to towing. Here are some of the best used trucks under $20,000 that can tow at least 5,000 pounds. Most have higher tow numbers when paired with more powerful engines, except for the Honda Ridgeline pickup. That tops out at 5,000 pounds, but it’s still a good option for buyers who need a light-duty truck.
The 2011 Toyota Tundra is one of the best used trucks under $20,000
When iSeeCars looked at some of the best used trucks, the 2011 Toyota Tundra was at the top of the list. Of the other 2011 Tundras on the road, 2.9% have more than 200,000 miles. The median price for this Toyota pickup is around $18,193, under budget. While there are several ways to configure the Tundra, the average towing capacity is 9,289 pounds.
Toyota is known for its dependable trucks, and the Tundra is a case in point. Buyers can opt for the V6 engine or two V8 engines, the stronger of which can tow 10,400 pounds. The base engine gets 16 mpg city and 30 mpg highway, which is just above average for a full-size truck.
Honda’s 2013 Ridgeline is another of the best used trucks under $20,000
People really like the 2013 Honda Ridgeline for its SUV-like comfort and truck-like capability. About 3% of Ridgelines on the road have 200,000 miles or more, which is the most of any used truck under $20,000. The average price of a 2013 Ridgeline is $18,613, which leaves room in the budget for routine maintenance.
Most Honda Ridgelines trucks have an average towing capacity of 5,000 pounds, which is plenty for most situations. That makes it suitable for most light-duty towing situations. The Ridgeline might not be the best choice if you regularly tow heavy loads. The V6 engine gets 250 hp and is powerful enough for most buyers. Honda also equipped the Ridgeline with features like cruise control, a power sliding rear window, and a backup camera.
Don’t overlook the 2013 Chevrolet Silverado 1500
For the best used trucks under $20,000, you’d be wrong to ignore the 2013 Chevrolet Silverado 1500. iSeeCars says that 2.0% of Silverado trucks on the road have more than 200,000 miles on the odometer. With an average towing capacity of 7,063 pounds, this Chevy pickup is a good choice for buyers. It can tow up to 10,700 pounds when properly equipped.
Median price for the 2013 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 is $18,216. Buyers who want a full-size truck that comes with a few engine options will be happy to know that the Silverado has four options. These options include a 4.3L V6, a 4.8L V8, a 5.3L V8, and a 6.2L V8. On top of that, the Silverado has three body styles and five trim levels to choose from.
Here are the top three options if you need a versatile used truck under $20,000. Whether you need a full-size or light-duty option, one of these pickup trucks from Ford, Chevrolet, and Honda should check all the boxes.