Pickup trucks effortlessly blend functionality and style, so it’s no surprise they’re so popular with U.S. customers. 

In 2023, the Ford F-Series, Ram Pickup, and Chevy Silverado were three of the top five best-selling vehicles in the U.S.¹ That popularity isn’t going anywhere, either—the pickup truck market is projected to grow to over $250 billion by 2028.² 

Modern trucks have sleek, rounded designs that pop, along with ample cargo space. As the market expands, there’s more variety in the amount of passenger seating, bed size, and off-roading capability. This means there are plenty of options that will appeal to consumers. Below are five options worth considering when buying used trucks for your dealership.

Best Used Trucks for Dealers to Stock

1. Ford F-150 (2017)

Few trucks are as iconic as the Ford F-150. Their F-series vehicles are top sellers year after year, and the 2017 model offers true versatility with luxury interior options on top of the performance that drivers have long expected from the brand.³ The 2017 F-150 features a 10-speed transmission and 365-horsepower twin-turbo V-6 engine with rear- or all-wheel drive options. Drivers can also enjoy leather seating and trim with heat and massage upgrades.⁴

What truly sets this model apart? The available Wi-Fi hotspot and 3-prong power outlets make this used truck attractive to drivers looking for reliable access to entertainment and communication.⁵ Customers looking for a business truck will also appreciate being able to keep up with work when off-site.

2. Toyota Tacoma (2019)

Few brands are as synonymous with quality and durability as Toyota. The Toyota Tacoma — affectionately called “the taco” — is an excellent value for the dollar and one of the most reliable trucks available at this price point.⁶ These trucks have a low expected ownership cost compared to similar vehicles and can handle off-road terrain easily. They’re smaller than other pickup truck options on the market, so they’re ideal for customers who prioritize performance over amenities. The 2019 Tacoma does have several modern safety features, including lane and pedestrian detection, adaptive cruise control, and forward collision warning.⁷

The Tacoma isn’t known for smooth handling, but it will drive well on rougher terrain, especially with the TRD Pro upgrade. While fancy add-ons aren't the truck’s strong suit, it still comes with an infotainment screen with voice control. A customer looking to take detours off the beaten path without needing a lot of cargo capacity is sure to be drawn to the Tacoma.⁸

3. Chevy Colorado (2017)

Vehicle shoppers looking for the most reliable used truck should look no further than the Chevy Colorado. The Chevy Colorado is a solid compact option with smooth handling and a comfortable ride. The Colorado comes in various trims, cab configurations, and powertrain options for a customized ownership experience.⁹

The ZR2 option was made for off-road use thanks to its Multimatic shocks and independent rear and front differentials, but any driver will find something to love in this used truck’s suite of infotainment features, including Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™.¹⁰ 

4.  Chevy Silverado (2015)

The Silverado is another well-designed pickup truck from Chevrolet that used vehicle shoppers love. With a comfortable interior and a quiet ride, even on the highway, the Silverado is an excellent choice for long-distance drivers.

It’s powerful, too. A properly equipped Silverado can tow over 7,000 pounds, going up to 12,000 pounds with the 6.2 liter V8 engine.¹¹ The standout safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) also put the Silverado in contention for the most reliable pickup truck, safety-wise. It scored five stars in each testing category except for rollover protection, which received four stars.¹²

5.  Ram 1500 (2018)

The 2018 Ram 1500 is a capable truck with a wide range of amenities. The Tradesman trim has minimal extras, while higher trims can include a heated steering wheel and seats, multi-zone climate control, and wooden accents.¹³ It has a roomy cabin, but the cargo bed and storage inside are smaller than other trucks in its class. Its above-average suspension, optional air suspension, and great handling give it a car-like feel when driving.

The NHTSA gave the 2018 Ram 1500 a safety rating of 4 out of 5 stars, and it includes frontal, side impact, and side curtain airbags.¹⁴ The Ram 1500 is an excellent option for anyone looking for a smooth ride and a flexible range of amenities.

Your Source for Reliable Used Trucks

If you’re in the market for a pre-owned truck for your dealership, join ACV Auctions for access to an extensive dealer auction platform and comprehensive market reporting. Members rely on this online marketplace for high-quality vehicles at transparent and attractive prices. Create a watchlist for the makes and models you’re interested in to ensure your lot is stocked with the vehicles your customers want.

Sources:

1. Capparella, J. (January 5, 2024). The 25 Bestselling Cars, Trucks, and SUVs of 2023. Retrieved July 9, 2024. https://www.caranddriver.com/news/g43553191/bestselling-cars-2023/. 

2. Pickup Truck Market to Touch Valuation of $253.93 Billion by 2028 | Global Sales of Pickup Trucks to Surpass 4.8 million Units by 2028. SkyQuest Technology Consulting Pvt. Ltd. Retrieved June 24, 2024, from https://www.globenewswire.com/news-release/2022/11/21/2559988/0/en/Pickup-Truck-Market-to-Touch-Valuation-of-253-93-Billion-by-2028-Global-Sales-of-Pickup-Trucks-to-Surpass-4-8-million-Units-by-2028-SkyQuest-Technology.html   

3. Kaffl, R. (28 December, 2023). FORD F-Series: America's Best-Selling Truck For 47 Years And Counting. Ford. Retrieved June 24, 2024, from https://media.ford.com/content/fordmedia/fna/us/en/news/2023/12/28/ford-f-series--america-s-best-selling-truck-for-47-years-and-cou.html 

4. 2017 Ford F-150. Car and Driver. Retrieved June 24, 2024, from https://www.caranddriver.com/ford/f-150-2017 

5. Tralongo, J. (8 January 2021). 2017 Ford F-150 Super Cab Review. Kelley Blue Book. Retrieved June 24, 2024, from https://www.kbb.com/ford/f150/2017/

6. Talking Tacos: Watch Real Truck Guys Test the 2016 Toyota Tacoma Off-Road. AutoGuide.com. Retrieved June 24, 2024, from  https://www.autoguide.com/auto-news/2015/12/talking-tacos-watch-real-truck-guys-test-the-2016-toyota-tacoma-off-road.html

7. Jones, C. (19 June 2020). 2019 Toyota Tacoma Review. U.S. News and World Report. Retrieved June 24, 2024, from https://cars.usnews.com/cars-trucks/toyota/tacoma/2019

8. Stafford, E. 2019 Toyota Tacoma. Car and Driver. Retrieved June 24, 2024, from https://www.caranddriver.com/toyota/tacoma-2019

9. Shelton, S. (2 November 2018). 2017 Chevrolet Colorado Review. U.S. News and World Report. Retrieved June 24, 2024, from https://cars.usnews.com/cars-trucks/chevrolet/colorado/2017 

10. Buglewicz, K. (25 November 2019). 2017 Chevrolet Colorado Extended Cab Review. Kelley Blue Book. Retrieved June 24, 2024, from https://www.kbb.com/chevrolet/colorado/2017/

11. 2015 Chevy Silverado 1500 Review. Edumnds. Retrieved June 24, 2024, from https://www.edmunds.com/chevrolet/silverado-1500/2015/review/ 

12. 2015 Chevrolet Silverado 1500. Cars.com. Retrieved June 24, 2024, from https://www.cars.com/research/chevrolet-silverado_1500-2015/ 

13. 2018 Ram 1500. Car and Driver. Retrieved June 24, 2024, from https://www.caranddriver.com/ram/1500-2018

14. RAM 1500 Safety Features. Autoblog. Retrieved June 24, 2024, from https://www.autoblog.com/buy/2018-RAM-1500/safety-features/