The Top Used Trucks For Towing, Performance and Fuel Economy

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When shopping for a used pickup truck, a one-size-fits-all approach often leaves a lot to be desired. Buyers often have vastly different needs from one another—and that means their trucks should be uniquely equipped to best suit their needs. Some drivers certainly value fuel efficiency, others appreciate a luxurious cabin, while many prioritize performance and capability above all the rest. To better help you determine which 2020 pickup is right for you, this article will explore which trucks provide the best towing capability, fuel efficiency and best overall value on the used market.

Best Used Trucks for Towing

1. 2020 Ford F-450 Super Duty

The best one-ton HD truck for towing is undoubtedly the 2020 Ford F-450 Super Duty. Featuring a 6.7L Power Stroke diesel V8, the F-450 produces a 475 horsepower and an unheralded 1,050 lb-ft of torque. This results in class-leading 37,000 max towing capacity—more than the weight of the aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford’s 30,000-pound ship anchor. 

2. 2020 Chevrolet Silverado/GMC Sierra 2500 HD

The Silverado and Sierra 2500 HD are two three-quarter-ton pickup trucks very well suited for towing. That’s largely due to the available 6.6L Duramax diesel V8 engine rated at 445 horsepower and 910 lb-ft of torque. When equipped with the Duramax, the Silverado and Sierra 2500 HD transform from ordinary pickups into earthmovers. With a 18,500-pound max towing capacity, that’s the equivalent of hauling three African forest elephants to your nearest zoo.

3. 2020 Ram 1500

If you need a half-ton pickup to get down and dirty, the 2020 Dodge Ram 1500 is certainly up for the task. When equipped with the legendary 5.7L Hemi V8 engine with eTorque hybrid technology, the Ram 1500 can haul loads up to 12,750 pounds. With 395 horsepower and 410 lb-ft of torque on tap, the Ram 1500 never feels labored even with a loaded trailer behind it. 

Best Used Trucks for Fuel Efficiency

1. 2020 Dodge Ram 1500 EcoDiesel

While it’s hard not to opt for the 5.7L V8 in the Ram 1500, the innovative and fuel-efficient 3.0L EcoDiesel V6 will make you forget all about the Hemi as you continue to drive past fuel-stations with seemingly endless range. In RWD configuration, the Ram 1500 EcoDiesel is rated at an astonishing 22-mpg city and 32-mpg highway. If 4×4 is needed, you can still expect 21-mpg city and 29-mpg highway—figures simply unimaginable in a truck a decade ago.

2. 2020 Honda Ridgeline

The Honda Ridgeline is one of the most fuel-efficient midsize trucks on the market. As the only truck in the segment to feature unibody construction in favor of a traditional body-on-frame chassis, the Ridgeline has a smoother ride and more responsive handling than many of its competitors. With its 3.5L V6 engine producing 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque, the Ridgeline achieves an impressive 19-mpg city and 26-mpg highway fuel economy rating.

3. 2020 Chevrolet Colorado

In rear-wheel drive configuration, the Chevrolet Colorado can achieve car-like fuel economy ratings when equipped with the 2.8L Duramax diesel four-cylinder engine. Rated at 20-mpg city and 30-mpg highway, the Duramax-powered Colorado isn’t sacrificing capability for efficiency either with an equally impressive 7,700-pound towing capacity when properly equipped. These fuel efficiency figures diminish only slightly in 4×4 configuration, with an EPA-estimated 19-mpg city and 28-mpg highway.

Best Used Trucks Overall

1. 2020 Ford Ranger

The 2020 Ford Ranger is perhaps the best overall midsize pickup on the used market. With its powerful 2.3L EcoBoost four-cylinder engine producing 270 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque, the 2020 Ford Ranger is equally as capable as it is efficient. Rated at up to 21-mpg city and 26-mpg highway, the Ranger is the most fuel-efficient gasoline powered midsize truck available. It also features a best-in-class maximum 1860-pound payload rating and 7,500-pound towing capacity.

2. 2020 Ram 1500

The 2020 Ram 1500 is simply too versatile to leave off the best overall list. If power and capability are what you’re seeking, the 395-horsepower Hemi V8 certainly delivers it in spades. If maximum fuel-efficiency is what you need, then the Ram 1500 EcoDiesel is the undeniable choice. With two different personalities and the most luxurious cabin in its class, the Ram 1500 can be configured to accommodate almost any need.

3. 2020 Chevrolet Colorado 

Like the Ford Ranger, it’s hard to go wrong with a 2020 Chevrolet Colorado if you’re looking for a well-rounded midsize pickup. Available in a variety of trim levels that span from an everyday-work truck to the off-road savvy ZR2 kingpin—the Colorado is extremely customizable. The available 3.6L V6 delivers a best-in-class 308 horsepower, while the available 2.8L Duramax four-cylinder provides a best-in-class 7,700-pound max towing capacity and up to 30-mpg highway.

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