The Tool Desk
Outbyte PC Repair FREERepair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Outbyte Driver Updater FREEScan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →In Cars.com’s September 2025 price ranking, the 2025 Ford Maverick XL was the least expensive listed new pickup at $29,840 with destination included. The Hyundai Santa Cruz SE followed at $30,245. These are dated list-price figures, not current dealer quotes; the best truck for you depends on the exact configuration and what you need it to do.
Cheapest new pickup trucks in the September 2025 ranking
Cars.com’s September 2025 ranking compares listed prices for five 2025-model-year trucks, with destination included. The Maverick led the list, but its $405 lead over the Santa Cruz is small enough that equipment, fees, and local offers could matter more to a buyer’s final decision.
| 2025 model and trim | Cars.com listed price | Price basis |
|---|---|---|
| Ford Maverick XL | $29,840 | September 2025 list price; destination included. Cars.com |
| Hyundai Santa Cruz SE | $30,245 | September 2025 list price; destination included. Cars.com |
| Toyota Tacoma SR | $33,185 | September 2025 list price; destination included. Cars.com |
| Chevrolet Colorado WT | $33,595 | September 2025 list price; destination included. Cars.com |
| Nissan Frontier S | $33,745 | September 2025 list price; destination included. Cars.com |
The ranking is a historical price snapshot, not a guarantee that these trims are available at those prices now. Manufacturer starting prices use different bases and may exclude delivery or other fees, so they should not be compared directly with destination-inclusive ranking prices.
Why the listed prices do not all match
Prices can change during a model year, and a manufacturer’s starting MSRP is not necessarily the same figure or fee basis used in a third-party ranking. The following official figures provide context, not a like-for-like replacement for Cars.com’s September list.
#1 Best Overall
- SCALE DETAILS: Precisely crafted 1:46 O scale die-cast metal model of the 2019 Dodge Ram 1500 pickup truck, measuring approximately 5 inches in length
- AUTHENTIC DESIGN: Features detailed black exterior finish, realistic wheels, and accurate body styling matching the full-size 2019 Ram 1500 truck
- CONSTRUCTION: Built with durable die-cast metal construction and high-quality plastic components for long-lasting play value
- DISPLAY QUALITY: Perfect for collectors and enthusiasts, with authentic detailing including grille, headlights, and body contours
- RECOMMENDED AGE: Suitable for ages 3 years and up, makes an ideal gift for truck enthusiasts and young collectors
- Ford Maverick: Ford’s July 31, 2024 launch announcement listed the 2025 standard-hybrid front-wheel-drive Maverick at $26,295 MSRP plus $1,595 destination and delivery. Ford’s later 2025 model page listed the XL starting at $28,145. Ford’s launch announcement and Ford’s 2025 Maverick page
- Hyundai Santa Cruz: Hyundai’s 2025 page listed a $28,750 starting MSRP, excluding freight, tax, title, and license fees. Hyundai’s 2025 Santa Cruz page
- Toyota Tacoma: Toyota’s 2025 page listed a $31,590 starting MSRP and notes that prices may vary by model. Toyota’s 2025 Tacoma page
Which cheap pickup makes sense for your needs?
A low list price is a useful starting point, not a verdict on value. Compare the same trim and fee basis, then check whether the truck’s size, cab and bed layout, powertrain, and rated limits fit your actual use.
Choose the Maverick if efficiency and a low entry price lead
Ford says the 2025 Maverick hybrid with front-wheel drive is EPA-estimated at 42 mpg city. That rating applies to that specific configuration, not every Maverick. Ford also states a maximum towing capacity of 4,000 pounds when properly equipped; the actual vehicle’s configuration and cargo conditions matter, so verify its specifications and labels before towing. Ford’s 2025 Maverick launch details
Rank #2
- REALISTIC REPLICA OF YOUR FAVORITE FORD TRUCK: Our gooseneck hitch Ford truck toys are carefully crafted to include realistic details of real-life trucks. These 3 year old boy toys are safe and durable for young children to play with and fun collectable items for adults to enjoy!
- FEATURES 2 HITCHES TO CONNECT TRAILERS: These Ford toy trucks have not one, but two hitches - one in the truck bed and one under the bumper! The truck hitches will fit any of our Big Country Toys trailers, making these toddler boy toys the perfect addition to any farm, rodeo, or country toy collection.
- WORKING TAILGATE FOR ULTIMATE FUN: The back tailgate on our toy trucks can fold down just like a real truck! Easily open and close the tailgate of our Ford pickups to load livestock, hay bales, and more during playtime for hours of fun.
- 1:20 SCALE COLLECTIBLE: Our Ford F250 toy trucks are replicas of the real-life truck in 1:20 scale. Enjoy these fun collectible farming trucks during playtime with your child or display them on a shelf to admire!
- SAFE & DURABLE FOR AGES 3+: Our Ford Super Duty toy trucks are made of heavy duty yet lightweight plastic that can withstand endless playtime for young children ages 3 years and older. We ensure our replica truck toys not only look authentic and lifelike, but they are also strong and stable for years to come.
Consider the Santa Cruz if comfort is a priority
An Edmunds comparison distributed by the Associated Press on June 4, 2025, characterized the Maverick as the more conventional pickup, with strong fuel economy and hauling limits, and the Santa Cruz as more comfortable and crossover-like. Those observations describe the comparison’s tested and configured vehicles; they are not a guarantee about every trim or driver’s preferences. Edmunds comparison via AP
Check capability against the job, not the nameplate
For hauling or towing, start with the load you expect to carry or pull and check the exact truck’s payload and towing ratings. A maximum figure may apply only to particular equipment and conditions. The five entries in the price ranking are not interchangeable in size or capability, and the cited comparison does not establish that one is best for every work task.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 1:32 Scale, Approx. 8 Inches Long
Rank #4
- CLASSIC DESIGN: Authentic 1:32 scale replica of the iconic 1955 Chevrolet Step Side pickup truck in vibrant paint finish with detailed exterior features
- FUNCTIONAL FEATURES: Working doors that open and close, plus pull-back action mechanism for interactive play value
- QUALITY CONSTRUCTION: Die-cast metal body construction with plastic components and rubber tires for enhanced durability and detail
- PERFECT SIZE: Compact 5-inch length makes it ideal for display or play while maintaining impressive detail and authenticity
- REALISTIC DETAILS: Features authentic styling elements including chrome-look trim, detailed grille, and period-correct wheel designs
Rank #3
- SCALE DETAILS: Precisely crafted 1:46 O scale die-cast metal model of the 2019 Dodge Ram 1500 pickup truck, measuring approximately 5 inches in length
- AUTHENTIC DESIGN: Features detailed black exterior finish, realistic wheels, and accurate body styling matching the full-size 2019 Ram 1500 truck
- CONSTRUCTION: Built with durable die-cast metal construction and high-quality plastic components for long-lasting play value
- DISPLAY QUALITY: Perfect for collectors and enthusiasts, with authentic detailing including grille, headlights, and body contours
- RECOMMENDED AGE: Suitable for ages 3 years and up, makes an ideal gift for truck enthusiasts and young collectors
How to compare prices before you buy
- Match the vehicle: Compare the same model year, trim, drivetrain, cab and bed configuration, and installed options.
- Normalize the quote: Ask whether the price includes destination or freight, and review dealer add-ons, taxes, title, license fees, and any incentives separately.
- Verify the truck’s limits: For a specific vehicle, confirm the payload and towing information on its labels and documentation against your intended load.
- Check local availability: Request current written out-the-door quotes from dealers; the September 2025 ranking does not establish October 2026 inventory, regional prices, or current incentives.
- Consider everyday use: Balance fuel economy and cabin comfort against the dimensions and capability needed for your regular driving and hauling.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
