Gas pickup trucks have long been popular for their power, versatility, and rugged design, but not all models live up to their reputation. Some gas-powered pickups are plagued with issues like poor fuel economy, low reliability, or overpriced features that offer little real value.
To help you avoid making a pricey mistake, I’ve made a list of gas pickup trucks that are simply not worth the investment.
This list is based on expert reviews, owner feedback, and my own experience in the automotive field, ensuring you get the most accurate and reliable insights.
1. Chevrolet Silverado 1500 (Base Gas Engine Models)
While the Chevrolet Silverado 1500 is a popular truck, its base gas engine models have been criticized for lackluster performance and poor fuel economy. According to U.S. News & World Report, the standard 4-cylinder engine struggles with towing and hauling, delivering neither the power nor the efficiency expected in this class.
Owners have reported frequent maintenance issues and a lack of durability, especially in the lower trims. Given the Silverado’s relatively high price point, many buyers find that they could have gotten a more capable and reliable truck from a competitor. Unless you opt for a more powerful engine option, the base gas models of the Silverado 1500 are often seen as a waste of money.
2. Ford Ranger
The Ford Ranger may appeal to buyers looking for a midsize truck, but its gas-powered versions have left many customers underwhelmed. According to Consumer Reports, the Ranger suffers from a harsh ride, lackluster cabin quality, and a turbocharged engine that doesn’t deliver on its fuel economy promises.
While the Ranger’s compact size makes it easier to maneuver, its underwhelming engine performance and less-than-stellar reliability ratings make it a poor choice for those who need a truck with consistent performance. Additionally, the Ranger’s high starting price makes it less competitive compared to rivals offering better features for the same cost.
3. Toyota Tundra (Previous Generation Models)
The Toyota Tundra is known for its durability, but the older gas models suffer from poor fuel efficiency and outdated technology. According to Edmunds, the Tundra’s gas mileage is among the worst in its class, with real-world numbers often falling below the already low EPA estimates.
Furthermore, previous-generation Tundras lack the advanced safety and convenience features found in newer models, making them less appealing for modern buyers. While it may offer reliability, the high cost of ownership, due to frequent fill-ups and lower resale value, makes the older Tundra models a questionable investment.
4. Ram 1500 Classic
The Ram 1500 Classic is marketed as an affordable full-size truck, but its outdated design and below-average reliability make it a poor value. According to Car and Driver, the Classic lacks the refinement, technology, and fuel efficiency of the newer Ram 1500 models.
The Classic is essentially a continuation of the previous generation, with fewer features and lower build quality. Buyers might be tempted by its lower price point, but the long-term costs associated with its subpar performance and frequent repairs quickly add up, making it a waste of money in the long run.
5. Nissan Titan
The Nissan Titan has consistently lagged behind competitors in sales, and for good reason. The Titan’s gas-powered models have been criticized for their poor fuel economy and limited towing capacity. According to MotorTrend, the Titan offers one of the least efficient engines in its class, making it an impractical choice for those concerned about fuel costs.
Additionally, the Titan’s interior materials and outdated infotainment system fail to match those offered by other brands in the same segment. With a higher starting price and limited dealership support, the Titan is a tough sell, especially when compared to more popular and reliable options.
6. GMC Sierra 1500 (Base Models)
The GMC Sierra 1500, particularly in its base models, offers little to justify its premium price tag. According to Kelley Blue Book, the base engine lacks the power needed for serious towing or hauling, and the fuel economy is far from impressive.
Moreover, the lower trims lack many of the comfort and safety features available in similarly priced competitors. If you’re in the market for a powerful and reliable truck, you’re likely better off avoiding the Sierra 1500’s base gas models and looking at more capable alternatives.
7. Honda Ridgeline
The Honda Ridgeline is often marketed as a versatile midsize truck, but its gas engine struggles to meet the expectations of traditional truck buyers. According to J.D. Power, the Ridgeline offers a car-like ride, which sacrifices off-road capability and towing power that many truck owners desire.
While it does have some innovative features, such as in-bed storage, the Ridgeline’s limited towing capacity and high cost make it less appealing than other midsize trucks that offer more capability at a lower price point.
8. Chevrolet Colorado (Base Models)
The Chevrolet Colorado, particularly in its base gas models, suffers from a lack of power and poor reliability ratings. According to Autotrader, the base engine is underwhelming, and the truck’s interior feels outdated compared to newer competitors.
Buyers often find themselves needing to upgrade to a more expensive trim to get a truck that meets their needs, which negates any initial savings from purchasing the base model. For those looking for a capable midsize truck, the base Colorado models are not a wise investment.
9. Jeep Gladiator
The Jeep Gladiator may have the iconic Jeep look, but its gas models are known for their poor fuel economy and questionable reliability. According to CarFax, the Gladiator struggles to provide a smooth ride on highways, and its gas mileage is among the worst in its class.
While it has off-road capabilities, the Gladiator’s high starting price and additional costs for essential features make it a less practical choice for most buyers. Unless you’re specifically looking for a niche off-roader, there are better truck options available.
10. Ford F-150 (Base V6 Models)
The Ford F-150 is a legendary truck, but its base V6 models often disappoint in terms of performance and fuel efficiency. According to Road & Track, the base engine lacks the towing capacity and acceleration expected from an F-150, leaving many buyers wanting more.
The base models also come with fewer features and lower-quality interior materials, making them a poor value compared to higher trims or competitors’ offerings at the same price range. For a more satisfying F-150 experience, opt for a higher trim with a more powerful engine.
11. Toyota Tacoma (4-Cylinder Models)
The Toyota Tacoma is known for its off-road prowess, but its 4-cylinder gas models are underpowered and lack the fuel efficiency to make up for it. According to Motor1, the 4-cylinder engine feels sluggish, particularly when towing or carrying a full load.
Buyers often find that they need to upgrade to the V6 model to get the performance they expect from a Tacoma. For those who need a capable truck, the 4-cylinder versions don’t offer enough power or value.
12. GMC Canyon (Base Models)
Similar to its sibling, the Chevrolet Colorado, the GMC Canyon’s base models don’t offer enough power or features to justify the cost. According to Edmunds, the base 4-cylinder engine is sluggish, and the truck lacks the build quality and tech found in other models.
Most buyers will find they need to opt for a more expensive trim level to get the performance and features they want, making the base Canyon a poor choice for those looking to save money on a new truck.
13. Ram 1500 EcoDiesel
Although not strictly a gas-powered truck, the Ram 1500 EcoDiesel often disappoints due to its high maintenance costs and below-average reliability. According to Consumer Reports, the EcoDiesel models have had issues with engine failures and high repair costs, which diminish their appeal.
While it may offer good fuel economy, the potential for costly repairs and frequent maintenance makes the Ram 1500 EcoDiesel a risky purchase. Buyers should consider more reliable alternatives in the gas-powered segment.
