The Top Used Trucks for Commuters That Everyone Will Love

Trucks are an excellent vehicle for a variety of activities, from hauling and towing, as you’d expect, to outdoor activities, like tailgating or camping, long scenic drives, and even commuting back and forth to work, over highways or city roads. But while they are versatile and highly capable, there’s always an option or two that’s better at one activity over another. For example, a heavy-duty truck is always going to beat out the smaller trucks when it comes to towing power; they can handle heavier loads and offer more power for those tough roads, steep inclines, and everything in between. But the point is, if you’re looking for something in particular, like the best used trucks for sale that are awesome for commuting, it helps to have a guide.

When prioritizing a commute-friendly option, you want solid fuel economy ratings, excellent reliability, and a comfortable drive with some modern tech thrown in for a good, in-cabin experience. You also want a solid investment and something that’s going to last for years to come, getting you to work on time day in and day out with no fuss. Here are some of our favorite options that provide just that.

Toyota Tacoma

The more recent models of the Toyota Tacoma bring something a little different to the table than the classic models, with sleek, stylish looks, a modernized cabin with lots of tech, and a powerful engine and powertrain combo. The traditional manual transmission is available even in some of the newer year models, which means those who want full control will fall in love with this one. The Tacoma is also one of those models that delivers a little something for everyone, from casual commuters and professionals to haulers and towers.

Offering an EPA-estimated 20 MPG in the city and 24 MPG on the highway as far back as the 2024 model, you’ll have some room to travel and won’t have to rush if you’re stuck in traffic. 2022 models and up are the sweet spot. These years got a slight refresh in design with more aggressive off-road and rugged styling, such as a heightened suspension lift on the TRD Pro, and improved technologies. They hold their value well and come with a solid balance of modern and accessible options.

Chevy Colorado

If you’re going midsize, the Chevrolet Colorado is right there, revving, and ready to roll. What’s really interesting about it is that it offers the same punchy power and tough engine as a full-size workhorse, with up to 7,700 lbs of towing capacity on many used models, rugged off-road features, and a stunning exterior design. Even models from 2020 can be seen towing up to 7,000 lbs. The Trail Boss and the decked-out ZR2 models will take on any canyon, mountain, or valley. Meanwhile, the entry-level WT and LT trims look formidable, drive smoothly, and can handle a great deal of jobsite and recreational activities, hauling and towing included. Sure, it’s a midsize pickup, but you’re not sacrificing anything by going a little smaller, with the Colorado.

With many used models like the 2023, achieving up to 20 MPG in the city and 25 MPG on the highway in RWD and up to 19 MPG in the city and 23 MPG on the highway in 4WD, you won’t need to hit the gas station more often for those long hauls, or for a commute into the city.

Ford Maverick

What the Ford Maverick offers commuters and drivers is a versatile bed, comparable to a full-size truck, without the full-size truck package. It’s actually a maneuverable, compact pickup, and the towing capacity is lower than something like a heavy-duty option, but it’s plenty useful when you need to bring along a small boat, RV, or camper. The only downside is that there aren’t many generations of the Maverick out there, but there are still plenty of used options available because it’s a popular pickup. They’re also highly accessible and hold their value well with the longevity to match.

As a compact option, the Maverick boasts some remarkable fuel economy ratings. For example, the 2022 Maverick offered up to an EPA-estimated 22 MPG in the city and 30 MPG on the highway in AWD. This year also offered up to an EPA-estimated 42 MPG in the city and 35 MPG on the highway in FWD with the incredible hybrid engine that’s equipped on many used models you can find today. This used model will really go the distance and is your best friend for those tough, drive-through-the-night trips. So, it will do perfectly for a commute, or two, or three.

Hyundai Santa Cruz

With its unique design that takes a lot of style inspiration from a crossover SUV, the Hyundai Santa Cruz is still classified as a compact truck. The bed is big enough for smaller hauls, like carrying some outdoor gear, moving apartments, or stowing some tools. Meanwhile, the 5,000-lb max towing capacity is quite impressive for its size, with a decent payload offering, as well. But during a commute, you wouldn’t be hauling or towing, you’d be taking a less scenic drive into or through the city. It’s small and maneuverable enough that you can get through cramped traffic just fine without any added stress.

That’s why it’s great news that the Santa Cruz offers about 21 MPG in the city and 26 MPG on the highway on average from model year 2022 to 2024, which is more than reasonable for longer drives. It’s absolutely fantastic for commutes. The 2024 model year is an excellent choice as it’s more up-to-date with some reliable upgrades, added comfort, and better standard features like LED lights, newer infotainment tech, and a refined interior.

Ram 1500

The Ram 1500 is a no-brainer for those who want a powerful full-size truck with an exceptional towing capacity, lots of bed space for hauling, and a spacious, modernized cabin. There are also a ton of powerful engines and suspension options, including Ram’s well-known 5.7-liter HEMI V8, which is also great for rugged, off-road travels. The beauty of buying a used Ram 1500 is that you can find those premium models for a more affordable price. The Rebel and the TRX trims are standouts, but the Tradesman, Big Horn, Laramie, and Limited are all fantastic options, as well.

Ram’s power does put the fuel economy up to 20 MPG in the city and 26 MPG on the highway for model years from 2020 through 2024, but that’s just fine for your traditional commute. For the best fuel efficiency on the Ram 1500, you can look for a used model with the diesel engine. Ram is a unique used vehicle case because even older models are still valuable and reliable, starting with the fourth generation from 2009 to 2018. We recommend looking at a fifth-generation model starting with the 2019 to 2024 model years. It has modern, up-to-date entertainment tech like larger displays, improved ride quality through thoughtful performance upgrades, and significantly better interiors with an emphasis on passenger comfort.

Honda Ridgeline

The Honda Ridgeline resembles an older, stockier truck from the early aughts, but it’s reliable, offers some excellent modern tech features, and comes with a host of functionality you’ll love. It’s a healthy midsize truck with sizable towing power for its class, great payload capacities, and plenty of varying trim options—be sure to review the TrailSport and Black Edition models. Stick with 2020 year models and newer, as they come with a nine-speed automatic transmission. But the older models are just fine if you want something a little more nostalgic.

You’re looking at up to 19 MPG in the city and 26 MPG on the highway with the 2020 Ridgeline, and the years that follow share similar EPA estimates, making it a solid investment for a commuter-friendly truck. It’s also highly maneuverable for a midsize option, giving you plenty of wiggle room in those bumper-to-bumper scenarios.

What Makes a Used Truck Great for Commuters?

A stylish design, especially a modern interior with some great tech, solid driver and safety assistance features, and a history of reliability are all important for a truck that’s commuter-friendly. But the crowning glory goes to the fuel economy. If you’re commuting from outside the city in, or from the center to the outskirts, or any other direction that hasn’t been mentioned, you don’t want to stop often to fuel up. That’s why all of the trucks on the list offer you the capability you need from a truck and the fuel economy ratings you need to make owning one worth it, whether that’s a compact or full-size pickup; better efficiency is the way to go.

Of course, they’re also elegant rides that deliver comfortable seating and solid investments all around when you’re buying dependable used models. If you’re in the market for a used, commuter-friendly truck, one of these is the way to go.