Top 5 Best Small Pickup Trucks under $35000 in the U.S. for 2025
Small pickup trucks are steadily gaining ground in the U.S., offering the right mix of utility, efficiency, and everyday comfort. Unlike massive full-size trucks, these compact and midsize pickups are easier to drive, more fuel-efficient, and often more affordable—perfect for commuters, weekend adventurers, and light-duty work.
For 2025, several models have been updated with better engines, more tech, and competitive pricing. Based on expert insights, here are the Top 5 Best Small Pickup Trucks under $35000 in the U.S. for 2025.
Best Pickup trucks under $35000 in the U.S.
1. Ford Maverick
The Ford Maverick is one of the best small pickup truck that offer best mpg. It is also the most affordable and efficient compact pickup on the market, making it a favorite among city drivers who want truck practicality without sacrificing fuel economy.
- Price: From $27,000
- Engines: 2.5L hybrid (191 hp) or 2.0L turbo (250 hp)
- Towing/Payload: 4,000 lbs / 1,500 lbs
- MPG: Up to 42 city / 35 highway (hybrid)
Why it stands out: The Maverick’s hybrid powertrain makes it the best choice for fuel-conscious buyers, while the clever FLEXBED system adds versatility. It drives more like an SUV, is easy to park, and even offers light off-road fun with the Tremor trim.
Downside: Smaller bed and tighter rear seating.
Also read: Top 15 best used cars under $10k
2. Hyundai Santa Cruz
Hyundai calls the Santa Cruz a “sport adventure vehicle,” and it’s exactly that—part crossover, part pickup. It’s stylish, comfortable, and packed with features, though the bed is shorter than rivals.
- Price: From $28,500
- Engines: 2.5L inline-4 (191 hp) or turbo 2.5L (281 hp)
- Towing/Payload: 5,000 lbs / 1,411 lbs
- MPG: Up to 22 city / 26 highway
Why it stands out: Refined ride quality, strong turbo option, lockable under-bed storage, and Hyundai’s excellent warranty. It feels more like an SUV inside, making it great for everyday comfort.
Downside: The short 4.3-foot bed limits big cargo, and heavy towing requires an aftermarket brake controller.
3. Toyota Tacoma
The Toyota Tacoma is one of the most trusted names in midsize pickups, and the 2025 model adds modern upgrades without losing its rugged reputation.
- Price: From $33,000
- Engines: Turbo 2.4L inline-4 (278 hp) or hybrid (326 hp, 465 lb-ft torque)
- Towing/Payload: 6,500 lbs / 1,705 lbs
- MPG: Up to 21 city / 26 highway
Why it stands out: Legendary reliability, excellent resale value, and serious off-road trims like the TRD Pro. The new hybrid packs plenty of power for towing and trail use.
Downside: Rear seats remain tight, and fuel efficiency lags behind smaller rivals.
4. Chevrolet Colorado
The Chevy Colorado brings big power and class-leading towing to the midsize segment. With a bold redesign and one strong engine across all trims, it’s built for capability.
- Price: From $31,000
- Engine: Turbo 2.7L inline-4 (310 hp, 430 lb-ft torque)
- Towing/Payload: 7,700 lbs / 1,684 lbs
- MPG: Up to 19 city / 23 highway
Why it stands out: Best-in-class towing, a modern tech-filled interior, and versatile trims from work-ready WT to the off-road beast ZR2.
Downside: Limited cab/bed choices and below-average fuel economy.
Also read: Top 10 Best hybrid cars under $40,000
5. Nissan Frontier
The Nissan Frontier offers a no-frills, dependable approach with strong V6 power standard. For 2025, it gains towing improvements and updated technology.
- Price: From $32,000
- Engine: 3.8L V6 (310 hp, 281 lb-ft)
- Towing/Payload: 7,150 lbs / 1,620 lbs
- MPG: Up to 18 city / 24 highway
Why it stands out: Strong V6 performance, good off-road options (PRO-4X), and multiple configurations. The ride is smooth, and towing is competitive.
Downside: Less efficient than rivals and heavy steering feel.
Quick Comparison: Key Specs
| Model | Price | Max HP/Torque | Max Towing | Max Payload | MPG (City/Hwy) |
| Ford Maverick | $27,000 | 250/277 | 4,000 lbs | 1,500 lbs | 42/35 (hybrid) |
| Hyundai Santa Cruz | $28,500 | 281/311 | 5,000 lbs | 1,411 lbs | 22/26 |
| Toyota Tacoma | $33,000 | 278/317 | 6,500 lbs | 1,705 lbs | 21/26 |
| Chevy Colorado | $31,000 | 310/430 | 7,700 lbs | 1,684 lbs | 19/23 |
| Nissan Frontier | $32,000 | 310/281 | 7,150 lbs | 1,620 lbs | 18/24 |
Final Thoughts
The 2025 small pickup truck lineup has something for nearly every type of buyer. If fuel efficiency and affordability are your top priorities, the Ford Maverick is hard to beat. Want something stylish and SUV-like? The Hyundai Santa Cruz delivers comfort and personality. For long-term durability and off-road adventures, the Toyota Tacoma remains a solid pick. If towing power is what you need, the Chevrolet Colorado leads the pack. And for a straightforward, V6-powered option at a fair price, the Nissan Frontier is a dependable choice.
No matter which you choose, these trucks prove you don’t need a full-size pickup to get big capability.