7 Best Trucks For Students Under $7,000 in 2024

You got here just in time! We’ve dug deep into the online marketplace and unearthed the top contenders all for under $7,000.

1. Ford F-150 Heritage

The 2004 Ford F-150 Heritage is a pick-up truck that’s perfect for any student who’s looking to make a statement on a budget! We love its classic design and rugged exterior, this truck is sure to turn heads as you cruise through campus.

The F-150 Heritage impresses with its 4.2-liter V6 engine, which generates an impressive 202 horsepower. So whether you’re hauling your heavy textbooks or equipment to and from school, this truck has got your back! And with its spacious cabin that can comfortably seat up to six passengers, you can easily carpool with your classmates.

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Additionally, the truck bed is spacious enough to accommodate all your sports gear, camping essentials, or even a large piece of furniture if you’re feeling daring.. Overall, the 2004 Ford F-150 Heritage is a reliable and practical option for any student who wants to make a statement without having to sacrifice their ramen!

2. Toyota Tacoma

Truck lovers like the Toyota Tacoma. In fact, one of the owners at WhichCar.org had one in college and 10 years beyond. This truck is built to last, and the Tacoma is an excellent option for students who need an incredibly reliable vehicle to get them to and from class.

A great truck always has a catch, and this is it. You will not win ANY races or beauty contests with this truck, so don’t plan on it. But do plan on making less trips to the gas station and mechanic, because it makes up for it in fuel efficiency and overall practicality. The earlier models (1995-2004) can be found under the $7,000 price point and offer a variety of options when it comes to cabin and bed size. The Toyota Tacoma is a great option whether you require a vehicle for moving or simply need a dependable mode of transportation.

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3. Ford Ranger

Another great option from Ford Motor Company is the 2006 Ford Ranger. The slightly underpowered four-cylinder engine gives the ranger the best-in-class fuel efficiency. The vehicle is equipped with a spacious six-foot bed, making it an ideal choice for hauling your possessions during a move or transporting bulky materials for a job. The car boasts nimble handling and easy maneuverability, making it a breeze to navigate through crowded city streets or tight parking lots.

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4. Chevrolet Colorado

Source: Edmunds

General Motors‘ 2007 Chevrolet Colorado is a flexible, cheap pickup. The Colorado is a great option for those who appreciate the tough and daring appearance of the full-size Silverado, but desire a more compact vehicle with improved fuel efficiency. The engine of the Colorado is impressive as it is a standard four-cylinder, but it’s surprisingly powerful. Additionally, it offers a fuel efficiency of over 25 miles per gallon when driving on the highway. Either way, you’ll have enough power to haul your weight in gold. This truck interior is so cozy, it’s like a hug from your favorite blanket. Plus, with all the bells and whistles like AC and power windows, your daily drive will feel like a joyride.

5. GMC Sierra 1500

The 2003 GMC Sierra 1500 is a full-size truck that’s perfect for those in need of a little extra space and power, compared to light-duty trucks. The car features a more daring and sloping front design than the 2002 model. The interior has been redesigned to enhance both its functionality and aesthetics. The upgraded brakes and cleaner engine are notable improvements. The latest addition to the car’s features is the Bose sound system. The Crew Cab model is a great option for those who desire an entertainment system in the back seat, providing a compelling alternative to an SUV.

Undoubtedly, the majority of these features apply to the Chevrolet Silverado as well, given that it is the GMC Sierra’s mechanical counterpart. In our opinion, the Sierra has a more sophisticated appearance compared to the Silverado. The styling of GMC vehicles is characterized by a more mature and conservative approach, featuring smooth and sophisticated lines. The Sierra boasts the intangible benefit of GMC’s century-long legacy of exclusively crafting top-notch trucks.

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The Sierra pickup truck boasts top-of-the-line engineering and advanced features in its class. This vehicle performs all the traditional functions of a pickup truck, but with improved capabilities for hauling and towing. The Sierra’s ride and handling surpasses any previous pickup truck. In addition to Chevrolet, GMC also provides distinct model and equipment options. These include the opulent and powerful Sierra Denali and a specialized Professional Package tailored to meet the needs of working individuals.

6. Nissan Frontier

If you’re trying to hit the mud after a long class, the 2004 Nissan Frontier is a fantastic option. The Frontier’s bold design and powerful supercharged engine aim to compensate for its shortcomings in terms of performance. Despite the supercharging feature, the acceleration of the car is only average. While this truck is not ideal for a full size family, it would make an excellent truck for any college or high school student. We recommend the supercharged king cab with the manual transmission if you want to “save the manuals” like us.

7. Dodge Ram 1500

We loved this muscular truck body style! This full-sized Mopar truck is perfect for any students on a budget is the 1998 Dodge Ram 1500. It’s easy to work on, reliable, and fun to drive. These vehicles have the potential to last a long time if proper maintenance kept up to date. This truck has more than enough horsepower to haul all your gear to and from school, plus some buddies. It also hosts a spacious cabin that can comfortably seat up to six passengers, so you can load up all your friends and save some gas money.

Bonus // Chevrolet S10

This one holds a special place in my heart, as it was the first truck I ever owned in high school ( it also got me through college too). The S10 is a great choice for students who want a smaller truck that still has plenty of hauling space, especially if you can find a long bed.

This compact pickup truck was produced by General Motors from 1982 to 2004 (I had the ’94). If money is your only motivation, the pre-2003 models are worth considering, since they will be starting at under $7,000. The vehicle comes in regular and extended cab options, which is a practical choice for those who require additional space for passengers or cargo, such as students. The truck is an excellent option for students seeking a dependable mode of transportation to commute to and from school. Additionally, it provides added hauling capacity for infrequent visits to the hardware store or assisting friends with moving.

All in all, there are tons of awesome trucks out there for students ballin’ on a budget. Additionally, do your research and locate a dealer you can trust when looking for a used truck. By doing your due diligence, you can ensure that you find a reliable and safe vehicle that will serve you from school and throughout your career.