Best New Pickup Truck Deals Recommended by Consumer Reports

Truck Shopping This Fall

If you have been looking for a new pickup truck earlier this year, you’ve most likely found that some models were either impossible to get or came at a price that did not fit your budget.

And you are not alone. Earlier we reported that one popular pickup truck model---the Ford F-150--- has in price become a “luxury vehicle” based on markups of up to 30% over the MSRP. Technically, the F-150 is also a luxury vehicle as its design has morphed more-so on owner convenience and luxury side and less on the workhorse side of what makes an F-150 an F-150. The end result is the sticker shock of paying between $70,000 and $80,000 this past year.

In fact, F-150 shoppers expressed angry comments about the pricing and the fact that end-of-year fall deals were "no-deals” this year as dealerships made room for the new 2024 models.

However, there are other pickup trucks worth noting that CR analysts offer beyond the Ford F-150…and are much more affordable.

According to a recent Consumer Reports newsletter, “The vehicles highlighted here have an attractive incentive that can save you money, and they’re recommended by Consumer Reports.”

That said, here are the latest recommended best new pickup deals you should be looking at today. Be forewarned, however, as you will want to act soon as these deals have already started, some of which will end on the 14th of November and the other on the 4th of December while supplies last. 

BEST NEW PICKUP TRUCK DEALS

2023 Ford Maverick Hybrid Lariat AWD SuperCrew

MSRP: $28,355

Potential savings below MSRP: 4%+

Incentive expires: 12/4/2023

Predicted reliability: 4/5

Predicted owner satisfaction: 4/5

Number of recalls to date: 2

1. Engine compartment fire risk: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2023 Escape, 2022-2023 Maverick, and 2021-2023 Corsair vehicles equipped with 2.5L HEV or PHEV engines. In the event of an engine failure, engine oil and fuel vapor may be released into the engine compartment and accumulate near ignition sources such as hot engine or exhaust components, possibly resulting in an engine compartment fire.
2. Trailer taillights that do not illuminate as intended can increase the risk of a crash: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2023 Maverick vehicles. A missing electrical circuit may cause the trailer taillights to not illuminate as intended when utilizing the vehicle trailer tow electrical connector. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 108, " Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."

Overall CR comments: “The Maverick is a new small pickup based on Ford’s Bronco Sport and Escape SUVs. Starting around $20,000, it occupies an increasingly popular niche—a small truck that can be bought on a budget. With a civilized ride, handy maneuverability, easy access, and decent fuel efficiency, the Maverick outscores every pickup in its class, other than the larger and more expensive Honda Ridgeline.”

2023 Ram 1500 Big Horn Crew Cab 5'7" Box 4WD

MSRP: $49,720

Potential savings below MSRP: 7%

Incentive expires: 11/14/2023

Predicted reliability: 3/5

Predicted owner satisfaction: 4/5

Number of recalls to date: 3

1. Two “Back Over Prevention” warnings. (#1) The rearview image that does not display while in reverse: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2021-2023 Ram 1500 and 2023 Ram 2500 vehicles. The trailer reverse steering control module (TRSCM) may prevent the rearview image from displaying when the vehicle is placed in reverse. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility." Also: (#2) Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2022-2023 Ram 1500, Ram 3500 Cab Chassis with GVWR less than 10,000 lbs., and 2022-2024 Ram 2500 vehicles. The radio software may prevent the rearview image from displaying. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."

                   3. Fuel pump failure can result in an engine stall: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2021-2023 Jeep Wrangler, Gladiator, and 2022-2023 Ram 1500 vehicles equipped with a 3.0L diesel engine. The high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) may fail.

Overall CR comments: Compared to the competition, the Ram 1500 remains a kinder, gentler pickup truck in this crowded field. This generation drops pounds, improves fuel economy, adds more room for passengers, and raises the bar for interior packaging. In fact, the Ram can satisfy the needs of even the most demanding commercial driver while providing surprising levels of comfort and tranquility.

For a more detailed breakdown of the data, please visit the CR website. Note that while access to some information requires a CR membership, the potential savings make it negligible in comparison when looking for the latest information to aid your car buying research.

For additional news related to Consumer Reports research, check out these three articles:

• Consumer Reports Best Winter/Snow Tires 2023
• Consumer Reports Most and Least Satisfying Winter/Snow Tires
• 10 Cheap Cars Consumer Reports Recommends Update

Timothy Boyer is an automotive reporter based in Cincinnati. Experienced with early car restorations, he regularly restores older vehicles with engine modifications for improved performance. Follow Tim on  “Zen and the Art of DIY Car Repair” website, the Zen Mechanic blog and on Twitter at @TimBoyerWrites  and Facebook for daily news and topics related to new and used cars and trucks.

COMING UP NEXT: Choosing A Classic Car or Truck for Use as a Daily Driver