Best Used Pickups

Pickup trucks are incredibly popular among UK buyers for being practical machines capable of carrying massive loads for work and transporting your family and friends for play. And if you’re looking for a versatile vehicle with a go-anywhere ability, a used pickup could just be the right choice for you – but which one is best from the previous generations?
Auto Trader’s Tom Roberts has rounded up some of the best pre-loved pickup trucks on sale in the UK today.

Practical, good to drive and competitively priced, the previous generation of the Ford Ranger was easily Europe’s best-selling pickup. What’s more, there’s a Ranger for every need, with a choice of single-cab, super-cab and double-cab configurations to suit different requirements. The latter is the most popular option, offering four doors and seating for five, along with a generous load bay capable of carrying almost 1,200kgs.
Whichever model you go for, you’ll be impressed by the Ranger’s driving experience and on-board technology. There’s also a wide choice of engines, with three 2.0-litre four-cylinder diesel engines delivering between 128bhp and 213bhp, as well as a slightly thirsty 3.2-litre five-cylinder unit badged 3.2 Duratorq 200. Most people will opt for one of the 2.0-litre diesels, with the popular 168bhp variant delivering sprightly performance and strong pulling power from low down in the rev range. While no pickup offers the smoothest ride, the Ranger is one of the best in this regard thanks to its rear coil suspension and feels more settled than firmer rivals like the Toyota Hilux. Overall, it’s a great all-rounder – just look for the dual bar splitting the front grille and you know you’re in the right one. Find a Ford Ranger here.

The sixth-generation L200 was launched in 2019 and builds on the Japanese brand’s renowned reputation for building bulletproof utilitarian vehicles by adding a new-found sense of style.
In this competitive market, the L200 stands out as a great all-rounder, combining a spacious loadbay with excellent off-road capability and affordable running costs. In fact, the latter is one of Mitsubishi’s strongest suits, with the capable 148bhp 2.3 litre four-cylinder diesel engine returning over 40mpg. In terms of practicality, the L200 is available as either a ‘club cab’ or double-cab design. Whichever one is right for you, those chunky tyres and standard four-wheel-drive system mean this is a vehicle you can take almost anywhere. Find a Mitsubishi L200.

Dependability and reliability are two words you’ll probably associate with Toyota, and the Hilux delivers on both fronts while also being spacious, economical and packed with technology.
With a towing limit of 3,200kg and a load bay that can carry more than a tonne, it’s also a model that delivers the practicalities you’d expect from a pickup truck. When it comes to choosing your Hilux, buyers can opt for either a single or double-cab design, along with four trim levels offering varying levels of equipment. Top spec versions get niceties like cruise control, tinted windows, reversing camera and a touchscreen infotainment system. Although there’s only one engine on offer in the UK, it’s a solid performer with reasonable running costs. The 2.4-litre unit has a useful 148bhp, while returning around 40mpg. Overall, it’s a solid choice, with the added peace of mind provided by Toyota’s generous five-year warranty. Find a Toyota Hilux.

Nissan has a long-standing reputation for building dependable pickups, with the latest Navara taking this to the next level by also significantly improving its on-road driving dynamics.
Capable of towing up to 3,500kg, the Navara has a spacious load bay and well-equipped interior, providing you choose one of the higher trims. While basic versions are quite sparse, the popular Tekna model includes all-round parking camera, heated leather seats, dual-zone climate control and LED headlamps. Like many rivals, there’s a choice of either a ‘King Cab’ or double-cab body style depending on your needs. Engine choices include a 158bhp 2.3-litre diesel, along with a more powerful 187bhp turbocharged version that offers even more in the way of performance. It’s economical, too, with a claimed average of more than 40mpg. It’s a top choice if you’re looking for a versatile pickup that’s also smooth and refined. Find a Nissan Navara.

Looking for a pre-loved pickup truck with an interior that’s a cut above the rest? The Volkswagen Amarok of the last generation certainly fits the bill, with a quality feel that few rivals can match.
It’s a practical choice, too, with a large 2.5 square-meter load bay capable of carrying cargo of over a tonne. Inside the cabin, there’s space for five, with luxuries including heated leather seats, stylish 19-inch alloy wheels and parking sensors coming as standard on the Highline trim. For a sportier style, there’s a Black Edition with dark detailing and even higher equipment levels. Under the bonnet, you’ll find a 3.0-litre diesel engine with either 201 or 255bhp outputs. Despite the relatively high capacity, running costs are reasonable, with both versions returning around 35mpg on the official cycle. Four-wheel drive is offered as standard, with the choice of an automatic or manual gearbox. It’s a bit of a beast to say the least. Find a Volkswagen Amarok.

Final Thought

So, if you're looking for a pickup truck for work or play, why not start your search with a pre-loved version of one the models above? From the best-selling Ford Ranger to the tough-as-nails Toyota Hilux, there's bound to be one in there that works for you. My best advice is simple - work out what you want from the vehicle, be sure it checks all your boxes before you commit and you won't go wrong. Happy hunting!