Top 6 Most Popular Used Pickup Trucks of 2021
“Semiconductor” is the auto industry’s buzzword of 2021. This type of material is critical to producing the microchips that are found in so many of the electronics we use today, including in our cars. Computers run everything from infotainment to wireless phone charging systems, electronic traction and stability control systems, and much more. Without microchips, cars simply can’t be built to modern standards. And currently, they’re in extremely high demand and short supply, which means that new vehicles are, too.
If you're shopping brand new, you might be having a hard time finding what you’re looking for. This is especially true if you’re trying to buy a pickup: trucks were already among the top-selling vehicles in Canada even before the pandemic and chip shortages hit, and demand is higher than ever as supply keeps getting squeezed tighter.
The shortage of new trucks has a lot of potential buyers considering used vehicles, even if they’d typically buy fresh off the lot. And to that end, depending on your situation, you may also be wondering what’s out there in the used truck market where depreciation is far less hurtful and resale value seems to be very steady for the foreseeable future.
Most popular pre-owned trucks
Recommending trucks is fraught territory, and it’s also often futile: brand loyalists like what they like and don’t tend to care what anyone else thinks. But for those who find themselves shopping around to find the right pre-owned truck, here are the top 5 most popular pickups in 2021 according to Canada Drives' own sales data.
6. Ram 1500 Classic (2019- )
Here’s the truth about the Ram 1500 Classic: it’s a carryover of the generation of Ram 1500 that ended in 2018. Because the truck dropped its single-cab configuration and went significantly upscale from 2019 onward, Ram continued to produce units with the previous generation’s configuration so that it could provide affordable trucks for buyers looking for function over fashion. If that’s you, a used Ram 1500 Classic can be an excellent way to get an unfussy, highly capable truck with relatively low mileage at a reasonable price. And you won't be alone; 7% of all Canada Drives truck sales have been Ram 1500 Classics.
5. Toyota Tacoma (2015-)
Known for its stellar off-road capabilities, the Toyota Tacoma (affectionately known as “taco”) has gained a loyal following since it was launched as a mid-size pickup truck in 2005. The 2nd Generation Tacoma (2015-) comes in six trim levels: the SR, SR5, TRD Sport, TRD Off-Road, Limited, and TRD Pro. The 2.7-litre 4-cylinder engine comes standard, but you can pay a little extra and get a 3.5-litre V6 engine that provides 278 horsepower. You can choose an Access Cab or Double Cab body style, manual or automatic transmission, and 2WD or 4WD. There’s also two bed sizes to suit your hauling needs; standard or long. More than 7% of all Canada Drives truck sales have been Tacomas.
4. Chevrolet Silverado (2014-2020)
Its combination of a fully boxed high-strength steel bed and cab construction with lighter aluminum on the hood, engine block, and control arms strike a balance between capability and efficiency that truck owners are looking for. The same situation applies regarding choosing 2016 models or later with the 8-inch screen to get the latest smartphone integration technologies – and the more reserved, less edgy front-end design on that generation of Silverado versus the most recent one might suit potential owners just fine. 10% of all trucks purchased from Canada Drives this year were Chevrolet Silverados, and the vast majority of those were 1500 models.
3. GMC Sierra 1500 (2014-2020)
The GMC Sierra and Chevrolet Silverado are two closely related trucks built by General Motors. For the Sierra’s part, it’s intended to be a mid-level offering along the lines of what Buick is to GM’s SUV family. Buyers with a budget to play with flock to the Denali grade as it offers some of the most premium features and interior finishes available in a modern pickup.
The model year range we’ve provided here covers two generations: 2014 to 2018 was the fourth generation, which had numerous V6, V8, and diesel engines offered at various points; opt for models from 2016 or later with the 8-inch screen if Android Auto or Apple CarPlay functionality and a wireless charging pad are important to you. From the 2019 model year onward, you’re getting the fifth-generation Sierra with an available turbocharged four-cylinder powerplant, a new AT4 off-road grade, better tech features, and access to GMC’s carbon fibre bed and Multi-Pro tailgate. The GMC Sierra 1500 comprises almost 12% of all trucks that were purchased and delivered to Canada Drives customers in 2021.
2. Ford F-150 (2015-2020)
Ford F-Series trucks are the bestselling nameplate in Canada over and over again for good reason. The most viewed truck in the Canada Drives inventory, and second only to the Ram 1500 in terms of sales (more than 18% of all trucks sold), the F-150 is as beloved by Canadians as poutine or NHL.
In its 13th generation produced between model years 2015 and 2020, the F-150 offered two EcoBoost turbocharged V6 engines with some later examples being paired with an effective and efficient 10-speed automatic transmission. The frame was also built from aluminum rather than steel to reduce the weight, and the concerns that were raised at launch that aluminum might not hold up as well over time appear to have been unfounded as loyal F-150 owners continue to enjoy their trucks years later.
1. Ram 1500 (2013- )
Of all the options out there, we find the Ram 1500 to be the current king of trucks. According to Canada Drives own sales data for 2021, three out of every ten (30%) trucks sold were Ram 1500's.
The 2019- model—with its industry-leading Uconnect infotainment system, comfortable seats, available premium interiors, and the classic Hemi V8—is as close to luxury as pickup trucks currently get. The previous generation Ram 1500 from 2018 and earlier was no slouch, either. Earlier versions of Uconnect and the same V8 power make the Ram 1500 a solid choice all the way back to the fourth generation’s refresh for the 2013 model year, which introduced revised styling and powertrain options.
With Canada Drives, you can shop dozens of certified used trucks 100% online, have your vehicle delivered to your door, and take seven days to decide if it's the right one for you (or your money back)!
