The Number of Pickup Trucks Per State and Best Used Models to Buy
The popularity of pickup trucks has soared across the U.S. due to their versatility, capability and functionality. According to iSeeCars, last year pickup trucks accounted for 16.6 percent of all vehicles on the road. In fact, the top three most popular cars last year were pickup trucks, namely the Ford F-150, the Chevrolet Silverado 1500 and the Ram Pickup 1500.
In its recent analysis of over 1.9 million used car sales from June 2021 through May 2022, the car search engine found the top 10 states with the highest share of light-duty pickup trucks are all mountainous states. Wyoming has the most pickup trucks and has 2.3 more pickup trucks on the road than the average state or account for 37.6 share of vehicles in the state, followed by Montana, North Dakota, Idaho, Alaska, South Dakota, West Virginia, Nebraska, Vermont and Oklahoma. Iowa ranks the 12th state with the most pickups, roughly comprising 24.3 percent of all vehicles, with the Ford F-150 as the most popular pickup in the state.
Due to their popularity, it may be possible for used car buyers to find good 10-year models. Consumer Reports did just that and searched for the best and most satisfying used trucks among 2012 models, according to reliability and decent fuel economy in comparison to most trucks.
In the category of compact pickups, the consumer resource picked the 2012 Honda Ridgeline , with a $15,500-$18,100 price range, noting the Ridgeline rides and handles like a good sedan. It is roomy and has many unique innovations, including a tailgate that opens vertically or horizontally and a lockable trunk. Second in this category is the 2012 Toyota Tacoma , whose price ranges from $12,350 to $20,475. CR says the 2012 Tacoma, while showing its age, has a “smooth and punchy” V6 powertrain and excels in hauling, towing, and off-road use.
Among large pickups, CR picked the 2012 Toyota Tundra, priced between $14,275 and $23,400. While larger in size than its previous model, the 2012 Tundra, was once considered the Camry of pickups. Just be aware that it is dated and its ride is not the smoothest.
Should you spot and decide to purchase any of these used models, due to their age, make sure they are up to date on past recalls.
When in the market for a used car, stop by Carousel Preowned. Carousel Preowned serving Iowa City, Cedar Rapids, Davenport, North Liberty, Marion, and Coralville, IA, is proud to be an automotive leader in our community. We do our best to ensure your complete satisfaction every time you step into our car dealership. This is why we offer the widest selection of used and pre-owned cars, trucks, and SUVs and provide true ease of purchase in Iowa.