7 Most Powerful 4 Cylinder Pickup Trucks With Great Efficiency & Reliability

4 cylinder pickup truck

In a market flooded with SUVs and small economy cars, it might be tough to locate the 4-cylinder pickup truck for heavy-duty work and adaptable performance. This is especially true if you are buying on a tight budget.

Fortunately, if you know where to search, the pickup truck category has plenty of possibilities. Buying a pickup truck on a budget can be difficult, especially because many of the newer trucks are built to be more high-end than they originally were.

Nevertheless, if you look at some of the entry-level pickups, you should be able to find something that fits both your budget and demands. You can narrow down your search and locate the right pickup truck by learning what the cheapest new pickup trucks are in 2023.

So, let’s get straight into the quick list of the top 4-cylinder pickup trucks in 2023.

Quick List of the Best Pick Up Truck 4 Cylinder

LocarDeals sorted through the data and picked the top trucks available if you’re looking for the best new 4-cylinder trucks on the market. We evaluate trucks based on price, comfort, efficiency, technology, towing, power, and other aspects using our research.

We curate the best trucks in popular categories such as best small trucks, best 4×4 trucks, and best trucks for towing based on this data.

  1. 2023 Ford Maverick
  2. 2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz
  3. 2023 Ford Ranger
  4. 2023 GMC Sierra 1500
  5. 2023 Toyota Tacoma
  6. 2023 Ford F-150
  7. 2023 Chevrolet Silverado 1500

Here Are 3 Different Types Of 4 Cylinder Pick Up Trucks 2023

Numerous manufacturers offer tiny trucks, which are the most affordable. Full-sized pickups, sometimes known as half-ton trucks, are by far the most popular. The numbers 2500 and 3500 for heavy-duty trucks denote higher capacity.

Also, as the number increases, the truck becomes more commercially oriented. Some companies do, however, provide elegant versions of their heavy-duty trucks. Buyers can choose from a variety of engines and transmissions.

A. Compact Pickup Trucks

The available pickup trucks in this class are the Chevrolet Colorado, and Ford Ranger. Like their full-sized counterparts, the majority are made utilizing body-on-frame construction. A variety of v4 pickup trucks and V6 engines are typically available as well.

The least expensive compact truck, a standard 2WD Ford Maverick, starts at roughly $20,000. A top-trim Gladiator can cost more than $50,000, the other extreme. Most of the middle-of-the-road, 4WD crew-cab models cost between $37,000 and $41,000.

B. Full-Sized Pickup Trucks

These are the powerful workhorses of the truck industry. They are larger and more sturdy than compacts and ride higher above the ground. They work well as work vehicles and, for many, serve as the family car.

There are several powerplant options, ranging from turbocharged four-cylinders to antique V8s and even a hybrid. The majority of well-equipped crew-cab 4WD vehicles cost between $45,000 and $55,000.

C. Heavy-Duty Trucks

These massive trucks are identified by numbers such as 2500 or 3500. They are built to carry and muscling huge loads. They are big vehicles designed for the most difficult jobs.

A regular-cab, 2WD, 2500-series works truck starts at around $37,000 before options. A fully loaded, top-of-the-line, 4WD crew-cab vehicle with a diesel engine can easily cost more than $80,000.

Factors To Consider When Choosing Trucks With 4 Cylinder Engines

Four-cylinder trucks have become more common in recent years. It might be difficult to select a vehicle, especially if you are seeking fuel-efficient trucks and expect to perform some off-road driving.

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Trucks are a popular choice due to their broad versatility. They can easily haul people and things and handle off-road adventures like pros. But, before you buy a truck, you should be aware of these six considerations.

A. Cab Size

Extended cabs are far handier even if standard cabs are the least expensive option. Rear seats in extended cabs are frequently fine for children but may be too cramped for grown adults. The additional inside storage is this sort of cab’s key benefit.

B. Bed

A bed is what distinguishes a 4- cylinder truck from other trucks and is one of its most important components. The open cargo bed can be used for significant activities such as transferring bulky appliances.

Unlike vehicles with expanded cabins, full-sized pickups normally have a bed length of 8 feet. A crew cab truck with four doors has a five-foot-long bed. The bed size of a little pickup truck is normally 5 to 6 feet.

C. Access

It may be difficult for people to climb into trucks with tall cabins. Putting a running board on your 4X4 truck can make it easier for passengers to get in and out. Due to the high side rails, it can be difficult to load and unload things from full-sized pickup beds.

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Checking to see if the seat meets your needs is also critical. You should look for trucks with enough room for your passengers and their belongings. Another important thing to consider is the amount of knee, head, and legroom in each seated position.

D. Towing

The towing capacity of trucks can vary greatly. A 4-cylinder truck equipped with the proper attachments can safely transport more than 12,000 pounds. Some, on the other hand, have a reduced capacity and may only be able to transport 5,500 pounds.

A normal compact pickup truck can tow anywhere from 3,000 to 7,000 lbs. Furthermore, most full-sized 1,500-class vehicles can pull cargo weighing between 5,000 and 10,000lbs. Heavy-duty pickup trucks have a towing capacity of 31,000 lbs.

E. Axle Ratio

This topic focuses on the amount of torque delivered to the truck’s rear wheels. The 3.5:1 ratio means that the transmission’s primary drive shaft revolves three and a half times for every rear wheel rotation.

A larger number is appropriate for towing and hauling capacities, while a lower number optimizes fuel economy. If you plan on doing a lot of towing, pick a number in the middle of the range.

F. Fuel Economy

A large four-cylinder engine is commonly seen in modern small pickups. The majority have an optional V6 engine that provides more power yet runs softly and smoothly.

The regular V6 full-sized trucks offer an excellent balance of power and fuel efficiency. Cylinder deactivation features on certain new V8 engines allow them to run on fewer cylinders and consume less gasoline.

7 Best 4-Cylinder Pickup Trucks In 2023 – Efficient & Powerful

Since their modest origins as simple workhorses, 4-cylinder pickup trucks have come a long way. Modern 4-cylinder pickups are efficient, dependable, and deliver a surprising punch. They have higher towing and payload capacities and are more eco-friendly.

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In this part, we’ll look at the top seven 4-cylinder pickup trucks. These trucks offer the best of both worlds in terms of fuel efficiency, utility, and performance.

1. 2023 Ford Maverick

Pick up truck 4 cylinder
  • MSRP: $22,195 – $27,955
  • Engine: 2.5L /2.0L Turbo 4-Cyl
  • Horsepower: 191 – 250 HP
  • Torque: 155 – 277 lb-ft
  • MPG: 22-40 City / 28-33 Hwy

The popular Ford Maverick is an excellent pick up truck with 4-cylinders for individuals seeking true truck capability. The Ford Maverick is a 5-seater SUV with three model options. The XL SuperCrew FWD, which starts at $24,190, is the most popular model.

It has a 2.5L I4 Hybrid engine and Front Wheel Drive. This Maverick is expected to get 23 MPG in town and 30 MPG on the interstate. The Maverick is simple to drive and park, and it gets excellent fuel efficiency.

The Maverick is not like other Ford trucks, which use hefty, old-school body-on-frame construction. The Maverick, on the other hand, is built like a vehicle, with a lighter-weight integrated frame and body structure.

Every Maverick is a four-door (crew cab) vehicle with a 4.5-foot bed. And it can hold four 4-by-8-foot sheets of plywood and a burden of up to 1,500 pounds. Every Maverick is capable of towing 2,000 pounds, and the tow kit increases that to 4,000 pounds.

Pros

  • Pickup capability at a low price.
  • Standard 42 mpg hybrid model.
  • Easy to park and maneuver in urban settings.

Cons

  • Firm ride.
  • The base model feels spartan.
  • All-wheel drive is not available on some models.

2. 2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz

4 cylinder truck
  • MSRP: $25,450 – $40,320
  • Engine: 2.5L/2.5L Turbo 4-Cyl
  • Horsepower: 191 – 277 HP
  • Torque: 181 – 311 lb-ft
  • MPG: 19-22 City / 25-27 Hwy

The Hyundai Santa Cruz delivers an enticing blend of crossover practicality and trucks with 4-cylinder engines features. The truck, which is available in two configurations, is a pleasant daily commuter that is also ideal for weekend escapades.

The Hyundai Santa Cruz is a 5-seater with 5 trim options. The SEL Premium AWD, which starts at $38,935 and comes with a 2.5L I4 Turbo engine, is the most popular model. This Santa Cruz is expected to get 19 MPG in town and 27 MPG on the interstate.

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The cabin of the 2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz seats five passengers. Its interior may easily be mistaken for that of a compact SUV. The Santa Cruz, though, feels like a performance sedan when equipped with the optional 281-horsepower turbocharged engine.

The Ford Maverick is Santa Cruz’s major rival. The vehicles are around the same size, but the Maverick looks and operates more like a standard pickup, whilst the Santa Cruz has a more sporty personality.

Pros

  • Large infotainment displays.
  • Handy size with a useful covered bed.
  • Sport sedan-like performance from a turbo engine.

Cons

  • Lacks a hybrid option.
  • Interior storage spaces are limited.

3. 2023 Ford Ranger

4 cylinder pick up trucks 2023
  • MSRP: $27,400 – $40,945
  • Engine: 2.3L Turbo 4-Cyl
  • Horsepower: 270 HP
  • Torque: 310 lb-ft
  • MPG: 19-21 City / 19-26 Hwy

The Ford Ranger is tough, powerful, and enjoyable to drive a 4-cylinder midsize pickup truck that combines a strong work ethic with a good bargain. It is both smaller and larger than the F-150, as well as larger and more capable than the Maverick.

The Ford Ranger is a four-door car with three trim options. The XLT SuperCrew 5′ Box 4WD, which starts at $38,400 and comes with a 2.3L I4 Turbo engine and Four Wheel Drive, is the most popular type.

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This Ranger is expected to get 20 MPG in town and 24 MPG on the interstate. Large V6 engines are still typical in this class, but the Ranger stands out with a 270-hp, 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine.

The 10-speed automatic transmission of the Ranger is flawless. The Ranger comes in two body designs (extended or crew cab) and with RWD & 4WD. The 2023 Ranger differentiates out in this crowded field by providing excellent overall value and a great driving experience.

Pros

  • Impressive towing capacity.
  • Nimble handling for a pickup.
  • The turbocharged engine is powerful and refined.

Cons

  • The ride is a bit too firm.
  • Not as much interior space as some key rivals.

4. 2023 GMC Sierra 1500

four cylinder trucks
  • MSRP: $31,200 – $81,900
  • Engine: 2.7L Turbo 4-Cyl
  • Horsepower: 277 – 420 HP
  • Torque: 430 lb-ft
  • MPG: 13-23 City / 16-30 Hwy

The robust appearance, large interior, and simple technology of the 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 carve out its own niche. The GMC, which shares its chassis with the Chevrolet Silverado, is more premium in appearance.

The GMC Sierra 1500 is a three-seater car available in eight trim levels. The Denali Crew Cab Short Bed 4WD is the most popular model. It has a 5.3L V8 engine and Four Wheel Drive and begins at $70,895.

This Sierra 1500 is expected to get 16 MPG in town and 20 MPG on the interstate. The GMC Sierra 1500 is a huge vehicle with plenty of trailering technology, wide front seats, and a turbo diesel engine option.

The Sierra is one of the most attractive & new 4-cylinder trucks on the market, but as a luxury car, it falls short of Ford and Ram. The Sierra 1500 is a difficult act to follow as a huge, sturdy truck that can do the most demanding chores while looking sharp.

Pros

  • Macho exterior styling.
  • Best-in-class trailer features.
  • Diesel engine’s impressive fuel economy.

Cons

  • Cabin luxury can’t match rivals.
  • Common driver safety aids are costly extras.

5. 2023 Toyota Tacoma

trucks with 4 cylinder engines
  • MSRP: $27,750 – $49,890
  • Engine: 2.7L 4-Cyl
  • Horsepower: 159 – 278 HP
  • Torque: 180 lb-ft
  • MPG: 17-20 City / 20-24 Hwy

The Toyota Tacoma’s combination of capacity and dependability makes it an excellent choice among four-cylinder trucks. It includes current features, standard safety systems, and versatility that allows it to be used in a wide range of circumstances.

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The Toyota Tacoma is a 5-seater pickup truck with seven model options. The TRD Off Road Double Cab 5′ Bed 4WD V6 Automatic is the most popular model. It has a 3.5L V6 engine and begins at $40,240.

This Tacoma gets 18 MPG in the city and 22 MPG on the highway. It, like most of its competitors, has a four-cylinder engine but also provides a V6 option. The majority of vehicles have automatic transmissions, however a few still have a six-speed manual.

Yearly upgrades have kept the Tacoma up to date with features such as automatic emergency braking and Apple CarPlay compatibility. The cabin of the pickup is also functional, with large knobs and buttons and plenty of storage space.

Pros

  • Above-average off-road capability.
  • Wide range of trim levels and features.
  • Strong reputation for toughness and reliability.

Cons

  • Lackluster acceleration.
  • Low driver’s seating position.
  • Not very refined from behind the wheel.

6. 2023 Ford F-150

v4 pickup trucks
  • MSRP: $34,585 – $84,910
  • Engine: 3.3L V6
  • Horsepower: 290 – 700 HP
  • Torque: 265 – 570 lb-ft
  • MPG: 2-20 City / 2-26 Hwy

The Ford F-150 is the most popular full-size pickup truck in the United States. The F-150 outperforms with strong tow ratings, a big cabin, and a varied selection. It keeps its position by providing vehicle consumers with the configurations and features they want.

The Ford F-150 is a 5-seater pickup truck with eight trim options. The XLT SuperCrew 5.5′ Box 4WD is the most popular model. It has a 3.3L V6 engine and Four Wheel Drive and starts at $54,345 USD.

This F-150 is expected to get 19 MPG in the city and 22 MPG on the highway. With trims ranging from basic to luxurious, it offers strong towing and payload ratings. An economical hybrid engine is available, as is the new electric F-150 Lightning.

The F-150 can be further customized by selecting between RWD & 4WD, 3 beds, and three different cabs. But, the rivalry is fierce: the Ram 1500 has a smoother ride and a more opulent interior. The tailgate of the Chevy Silverado 1500 is multifunctional.

Pros

  • Expansive trim range.
  • Lots of engine options.
  • High tow and payload ratings.

Cons

  • No diesel engine option.
  • Less refined ride compared to Ram 1500.

7. 2023 Chevrolet Silverado 1500

4 cylinder pick up trucks 2023
  • MSRP: $34,600 – $68,400
  • Engine: 2.4L Turbo 4-Cyl
  • Horsepower: 310 HP
  • Torque: 420 lb-ft
  • MPG: 13-23 City / 17-31 Hwy

The tough-as-nails 2023 Chevy Silverado 1500 stays loyal to its heritage. It’s a tough, capable truck and only one Chevy full size truck 4-cylinder that’s well-equipped. There are numerous engine configurations and features to meet a wide range of requirements.

The 2023 Chevy Silverado 1500 is largely a carryover vehicle, but the interior changes feel fresh. In addition, the turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 Duramax diesel engine gained output. It now produces 305 hp and 495 lb-ft of torque.

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This vehicle accelerates quickly and can reach 60 mph in around 5.4 seconds. The diesel engine is a little slower, but it packs a lot of punch. Transmission shifts are also accurate and smooth.

Once fully equipped, the Silverado 1500 can tow up to 13,300 pounds and carry up to 2,300 pounds. Although the bed has a high liftover height, built-in corner bumper stairs, and the Multi-Flex tailgate make access easy.

Pros

  • Extremely capable.
  • Comfortable cabin.
  • Sophisticated turbocharged engine.

Cons

  • Bouncy ride.
  • The Interior feels basic.
  • Dated compared to key rivals.

Top FAQs About New 4-Cylinder Trucks

What Ford 4-Cylinder Truck Is The Most Fuel-Efficient?

The 2023 Ford Maverick is the most fuel-efficient Ford 4-cylinder pickup. This tiny pickup vehicle features a hybrid drivetrain. It is likely to get 40 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the interstate.

In addition, the Maverick has a stop-start system and an Eco mode. These features improve fuel efficiency by altering engine and transmission settings.

Why Are Small 4-Cylinder Trucks Better?

Small 4-cylinder trucks are preferable for a variety of reasons. First, they are more fuel-efficient than larger trucks, allowing you to save money on gas. Second, they are more maneuverable and easier to park in compact spaces.

Eventually, they are less expensive to buy and operate than larger trucks. Ultimately, they can still do most light-duty hauling and towing chores, making them a viable option for a wide range of people.

Which Of The 4-Cylinder 4×4 Trucks Can Haul the Most Weight?

The 2023 Ford Ranger is one of the most powerful 4-cylinder 4×4 trucks. When properly equipped, the 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine can tow up to 7,500 pounds and has a maximum payload capacity of 1,860 pounds.

Furthermore, the Ranger’s terrain management system and optional FX4 Off-Road Package make it a strong off-road option.

Which Compact Pickup Truck Is The Best 4-Cylinder 4WD Truck?

The Toyota Tacoma is commonly considered to be the best compact pickup truck with 4-cylinder 4WD. Its 2.7-liter engine produces 159 horsepower and 180 pound-feet of torque, making it a strong off-roader.

The Tacoma also has a strong towing capacity, with a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 pounds. Furthermore, the Tacoma is well-known for its dependability and durability, making it an excellent choice for a long-lasting and powerful 4WD truck.

What Are Some Popular 2023 4-Cylinder Diesel Truck Models Currently Available?

As time goes on, we will see an increase in the popularity of 4-cylinder diesel trucks. This is most likely because they are more fuel-efficient and emit fewer emissions than their larger equivalents.

If you’re looking for a 4-cylinder diesel truck in 2023, here are some of the most popular options right now:

● Ford F-150 EcoBoost
● Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Duramax
● GMC Sierra 1500 Duramax
● Ram 1500 EcoDiesel
● Nissan Titan XD Cummins

Is Dodge 4-Cylinder Truck Ram 1500 Reliable?

The Dodge Ram 1500 is a 4-cylinder truck that’s been on the market for quite some time. Because of its powerful engine and sturdy construction, it is frequently recognized as one of the most dependable trucks on the market.

It has a towing capacity of 7,600 pounds and a payload capacity of 1,880 pounds. The 4-cylinder engine can tow and transport huge weights while remaining fuel efficient.

How Much Horsepower Does GM 4-Cylinder Engines Produce?

GM 4-cylinder engines range in horsepower from 100 to 400, depending on the engine. The Ecotec 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine from the business generates 275 horsepower.

The 2.5-liter Duramax 4-cylinder turbo-diesel engine in the GMC Canyon, on the other hand, generates a massive 200 horsepower.

Final Thoughts

4-cylinder pickup trucks are a popular choice because they provide a good blend of fuel efficiency and functionality. There is a 4-cylinder pickup truck to suit any driver’s demands, with a vast selection of models and extras available.

If you’re looking for a pickup truck, be sure to look over the list in this article to find the ideal 4-cylinder pickup for you. Begin your search now and reap the benefits of owning a dependable and efficient truck.

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Ritambra

Ritambra is an absolute car fanatic who loves to drive and write about cars. Explore new car launches, automobile technologies, best car deals and more with entertaining, informative and delightful reading that will surely quench your thirst for automobiles.

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