Best Used Trucks for Under $25,000
By JOSH JACQUOT, Edmunds Feb 26, 2025
Americans have a longstanding love affair with trucks, and it’s easy to understand why. These vehicles are go-to choices for families, handling everything from daily commutes to adventurous getaways. What’s even better is that you can find excellent used options for under $25,000 that offer a blend of performance, features, utility, and durability. Here are Edmunds’ picks of five outstanding trucks in various sizes and with distinct personalities, offering something for every truck buyer.
2015-2022 Chevrolet Colorado
The second-generation Colorado offers a high degree of utility, thanks to its three engine options. The most common are two gas engines: a 200-horsepower four-cylinder and a V6 with over 300 horsepower. From 2016, Chevy also offered a fuel-efficient diesel engine, which is notable for providing a towing capacity of up to 7,700 pounds. This model is available in extended- and crew-cab configurations, with multiple bed lengths to choose from.
The Z71 off-road trim stands out with its increased ground clearance and a capable suspension that uses unique dampers. Inside, the Colorado has an intuitive infotainment system, with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration available in models from 2016 onward.
Colorado pricing: $18,000-$25,000
2014-2018 Chevrolet Silverado 1500
The Chevy Silverado 1500 has long been a mainstay in the full-size truck market. This generation of Silverado offers robust towing and hauling capabilities, thanks to an engine lineup including a 4.3-liter V6 and 5.3-liter/6.2-liter V8 engines. Depending on the year, the V8 can be paired with either a six-speed or eight-speed automatic transmission. These Silverados offer maximum towing capacities of up to 12,500 pounds depending on the configuration, and were available in three cab configurations with two bed lengths.
Beyond its reputation as a workhorse, the Silverado is surprisingly comfortable. Higher trims offer premium touches like leather seats and advanced infotainment options. Certain trims from 2016 onward benefit from an 8-inch touchscreen and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto connectivity.
Silverado 1500 pricing: $15,000-$25,000
2015-2020 Ford F-150
The 2015-2020 F-150 is notable for its lightweight aluminum construction, which helped improve fuel efficiency and towing/hauling capabilities. A wide array of engines were available, depending on the model year. They include the popular 5.0-liter V8, a 3.3-liter V6, two turbocharged gas V6s in three output levels, and a turbodiesel V6.
Three cab styles are on offer, with three bed lengths available depending on the cab choice. The F-150’s towing capacity ranges from 7,600 to 13,200 pounds, again depending on configuration. Inside, higher trims offer an upscale experience, featuring heated and ventilated leather seats and adaptive cruise control.
Ford F-150 pricing: $16,000-$25,000
2017-2022 Honda Ridgeline
The Honda Ridgeline stands out in the midsize truck category for its car-like ride quality and innovative features. It uses unibody construction, unlike traditional body-on-frame trucks, resulting in better on-road handling and ride quality. The Ridgeline’s in-bed trunk and dual-action tailgate are features unique to this model. Its V6 engine produces 280 horsepower, which is plenty for most buyers. Models from these years also offer advanced driver aids like adaptive cruise control and lane keeping assistance, which are less common in older trucks.
While the Ridgeline’s maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds is lower than some competitors, it is a great pick for buyers prioritizing comfort, practicality, and efficiency over pure towing or off-road prowess.
Ridgeline pricing: $18,000-$25,000
2016-2023 Toyota Tacoma
The Toyota Tacoma has earned a loyal following for its legendary reliability and off-road capabilities. These Tacomas from the third generation come with either a 2.7-liter four-cylinder or a 3.5-liter V6 engine. Two cab styles and two bed lengths are offered.
With its robust V6 engine and standard features like a composite bed that resists dents and rust, the Tacoma is built to last. Upper trims during these years came with useful driver assist features like blind-spot warning with rear cross-traffic alert and rear parking sensors.
Off-road enthusiasts should look for the TRD Off-Road trim, which features Bilstein shocks, a lockable rear differential, and advanced traction control tuned for off-road use.
Tacoma pricing: $16,000-$25,000
Edmunds suggests that these trucks, found at both dealerships and with private sellers nationwide, offer a truck solution for most people’s needs even within a modest budget.
This story was provided to The Associated Press by the automotive website Edmunds. Josh Jacquot is a contributor at Edmunds.
