The most affordable new medium-duty truck models cost less than $33,000.
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- Several midsize pickup trucks, including the Toyota Tacoma and Chevrolet Colorado, will start under $35,000 in 2026.
- Although Nissan models are the cheapest, the Ford Ranger and Toyota Tacoma often rank higher overall on car review sites.
The cheapest light pickup truck on the market is undoubtedly the Ford Maverick, but what about the midsize segment?
Ford’s Maverick compact pickup truck shocked the nation when it first debuted in 2022. Although its price has increased since its debut, it remains the most affordable new pickup truck, starting at $28,145.
Although new midsize pickup trucks cost significantly more than the Maverick, there are still models that sell for less than the average new price of about $50,000.
What is the most affordable midsize pickup truck model for American drivers in 2026?
Nissan will be the cheapest mid-size pickup truck in 2026
2026 will see several new affordable midsize pickup trucks, but the Nissan Frontier takes the top spot as this year’s most affordable truck. Pricing for the 2026 Nissan Frontier starts at $32,150, excluding taxes and surcharges.
Nissan’s Frontier medium-duty truck uses a 3.8-liter V6 engine that produces 310 horsepower. It gets 19 miles per gallon in the city and 24 miles per gallon on the highway.
Crew cab models seat five people, and king cab models seat four. Frontier’s standard bed length is 59.5 inches, which is just about 5 feet long. Maximum towing capacity is 7,150 lbs.
Is the 2026 Nissan Frontier a good truck?
According to Edmunds’ vehicle reviews, the 2026 Nissan Frontier offers a “smooth ride,” as well as “stable and safe handling” and “convenient storage space for small items.” Benefit from mid-cycle refresh.
According to a vehicle review on car review site The Car Connection, Nissan’s mid-sized pickup truck also features “strong V6 power” and “advanced safety features.” Although a solid truck, the Frontier does have its drawbacks.
Crew cab models may feel cramped in the back row of seats. Additionally, some rivals have better interior quality than the Frontier.
What is the cheapest medium-duty truck in 2026?
There are several brand new mid-size trucks with starting prices under $40,000.
Cheapest mid-size truck under $40,000
- 2026 Nissan Frontier ($32,150)
- 2026 Toyota Tacoma ($32,245)
- 2026 Chevrolet Colorado ($32,400)
- 2026 Ford Ranger ($33,350)
- 2026 GMC Canyon ($38,900)
- 2026 Jeep Gladiator ($39,300)
Four of the six mid-size pickup trucks listed above have a starting price of less than $35,000 before taxes and surcharges. Each has trim options that add even more features for an additional cost.
What are the best new medium-duty trucks for the money?
While the Nissan Frontier is appealing as the most affordable new midsize truck, there are several alternatives that have higher overall ratings on car review sites. Edmunds lists the Ford Ranger, Toyota Tacoma, and Honda Ridgeline as its top three best midsize pickup trucks of 2026.
Digital auto marketplace TrueCar.com also named the Ford Ranger and Toyota Tacoma as two of the best midsize trucks of 2026. The Ford Ranger is known for its durability and versatility. Toyota’s Tacoma has earned a reputation for its high value retention and off-road ability.
If you’re in the market for an affordable brand new midsize pickup truck in 2026, there’s no shortage of competitive options.
