In this week’s mailbag, we tackle the burning question on many minds: why is it so difficult to find a genuinely cheap pickup truck in the United States? We also explore the enduring appeal of the Mini Cooper and consider whether the rumored Tesla Model 2 can revitalize the electric vehicle giant.
Reader Question: The Frustration of the Missing Cheap Work Truck
Q ([email protected]): I’m following up on a previous question about a potential Nissan competitor to the Ford Maverick. I’m a Nissan enthusiast, but my family also owns vehicles from Buick and Toyota. Actually, my mom bought a Buick Envista based on your review and she loves it!
Anyway, I’m planning to buy my first new pickup truck next year. I considered the Maverick, but even the base model is over $26,000. I need something with more capability, but everything affordable seems to be missing in this country.
I’m not looking for luxury, just a basic work truck. Dealerships don’t seem to offer anything close to $25,000 that fits this bill. Why can’t we have access to well-built, cheap trucks like other parts of the world? It feels unfair!
I refuse to spend $50,000 on a pickup when I earn $60,000 a year. It’s unrealistic, but that’s what truck companies expect us to accept! I love my 2009 Nissan Frontier with over 200,000 miles, but it’s getting old. There’s no affordable new truck to replace it!
– Juan TT
Answer: The Hard Truth About Affordable Pickup Trucks
A: That’s a fantastic and very common question! Affordable new pickup trucks are a hot topic, and depending on what “affordable” means to you, the options are indeed limited.
You’re right, the Ford Maverick is currently the least expensive vehicle with a truck bed available in the US. Ford advertises the base model at just under $24,000, but that doesn’t include the mandatory $1,595 destination charge and a questionable $695 “acquisition fee.” This pushes the actual starting price to over $26,000.
The Hyundai Santa Cruz starts slightly higher at $26,900, reaching $28,295 with “freight” before any options. Having tested both, the Maverick is arguably a better work-oriented truck, while the Santa Cruz leans more towards a comfortable commuter vehicle. Regardless, these are the most budget-friendly pickups on the market, outside of potential dealership discounts.
Occasionally, dealerships might offer significant deals to clear out inventory, which could bring the price of a base-model midsize pickup closer to your target. However, generally, you’ll need to move into the low $30,000 range for base models from Chevrolet, Nissan, Toyota, and Ford.
Full-size pickups generally start in the high $30,000s, and finding one under $40,000 is increasingly difficult.
The Missing Sub-$20,000 New Pickup Truck
A truly new pickup truck for under $20,000 simply doesn’t exist in the US market. The Toyota IMV 0, pictured above, is sold in overseas markets for the equivalent of around $10,000 USD. However, building a truck like this for the US market at that price point is practically impossible.
The primary reasons are production costs, stringent safety regulations, and emissions standards from the EPA and DOT. Many of these regulations are less demanding or non-existent in other countries, significantly reducing the overall cost of production.
Yes, the IMV 0 likely comes with a basic four-cylinder engine, a manual transmission, and minimal options – but that’s precisely what many hardworking individuals need and want. Unfortunately, importing a new vehicle like this isn’t feasible, and you’d have to wait 25 years for it to be legally importable as a used vehicle. It’s a frustrating situation.
There was hope that the rise of cheaper technology and imported components might enable the production of basic, affordable electric pickup trucks in the US. Sadly, this hasn’t materialized and doesn’t seem likely in the near future. Ultimately, it comes down to profit margins for automakers, government policies, and complex regulations.
Exploring the used truck market is the only viable alternative I can suggest. However, even used truck prices are inflated in the current economic climate, making affordability a challenge across the board.
I wish I had better news, Juan.
— N
Reader Question: Mini Love Still Strong?
Q: (Via: NathanAdlen@Twitter/X) Watched your MTTS videos – looked like a lot of fun! Do the TFL team still own a bunch of Minis? I remember seeing six or seven in the past. I have a 2007 Cooper, and it’s my pride and joy!
- Max and Daisy 80
Answer: TFL’s Mini Count and Enduring Affection
A: You’re right, at one point, the TFL Studios team collectively owned close to a dozen Minis!
After I sold my MINI Countryman (which was my wife’s car, but I enjoyed driving it), our current count at TFL Studios is down to two or three. Last I checked, Tommy has two, and Alex might still have one. We definitely have a soft spot for Minis, and I wouldn’t be surprised if another one joins our ranks soon.
In fact, after attending the 2024 MTTS (Mini Takes the States) event, I’m seriously considering getting another MINI as a commuter vehicle here in Los Angeles.
Time will tell!
- N
Reader Question: Can the Model 2 Save Tesla?
Q: (Via: NathanAdlen@Twitter/X) Nathan, do you think the Model 2 will be Tesla’s savior?
I bought a Model 3 Standard Range Plus in 2020 for $39,000 and it has exceeded my expectations. I know you’re sometimes critical of Tesla, especially regarding the Cybertruck – and I understand why! It’s a bit of a mess for Tesla, and I get the criticism. But I appreciate that you acknowledge Tesla’s engineering and technology are impressive. A true hater wouldn’t say that. And I know you’re not an EV skeptic like some other “journalists.”
Just to be clear, I’m an EV owner and a Tesla owner by necessity. My job incentivizes it, and I get significant financial benefits from driving a Tesla. My partner has a Camry hybrid, so we have the flexibility for longer trips when needed.
Anyway, considering Tesla’s challenging year, do you think the upcoming Model 2 will turn things around for the company? I’m not talking about the Tesla taxi or the Roadster – I mean the Model 2! Or will it require Elon Musk stepping down to restore investor confidence?
As an investor, I’m feeling uncertain!
Looking forward to your insights. And thanks for the entertaining and informative reviews!
- A. Hashimoto
Answer: Tesla’s Future Hinges on Affordability and Practicality
A: Tesla is indeed a complex and multifaceted company to analyze.
To be honest, Elon Musk isn’t the primary issue. While a more conventional leader might bring stability, his unconventional style also attracts a segment of buyers. It’s a mixed bag, particularly evident in California, Tesla’s biggest market.
Teslas are incredibly common here.
I agree that Tesla needs to expand its product lineup beyond niche vehicles. The Cybertruck, in my opinion, is more of a novelty item than a mainstream product.
As I mentioned earlier regarding affordable pickup trucks, it would be revolutionary if Tesla could crack the $20,000 price point and produce a practical, reliable, and affordable EV. I suspect we’re more likely to see something starting closer to $30,000 – but breaking the $25,000 or even $20,000 barrier will be extremely difficult.
However, remember that Tesla is fundamentally a tech company that also builds cars. I believe they are actively developing a vehicle that will hopefully offer around 200 miles of range at a price point considered “affordable.” Whether that price will be genuinely affordable for the average consumer remains to be seen.
Thanks for reaching out with your insightful question!
- N
