Finding used trucks is easy, but finding the best used compact trucks takes a bit of effort. Unsurprising, two trucks sit atop the U.S. News list of trucks for 2018. These two midsize trucks compete in the same class but offer different approaches to the driving experience.

What are the two best used compact trucks from 2018?

If you want a relatively modern compact truck, U.S. News & World Report says you should choose the 2018 Toyota Tacoma or 2018 Honda Ridgeline. If you expected to see one of the GM models, you’ll have to look further down the list. The GMC Canyon and Chevy Colorado ranked third and fourth, respectively, with the Nissan Frontier rounding out the top five.

What makes the 2018 Toyota Tacoma the best of the used compact trucks?

Toyota offers the Tacoma in several configurations, which makes it easy to find this truck with everything desired. Drivers looking for an excellent off-road pickup should turn to this Toyota model and seek out the TRD Pro trim.

U.S. News says the 2018 Tacoma is the best of the used compact trucks because:

• High payload capacity
• Easy-to-use infotainment system
• Lots of standard driver assistance features

The Tacoma has been the top-selling truck in its class for several years, despite being more expensive than most other models.

Is the 2018 Toyota Tacoma reliable?

The Tacoma is considered one of its class’s most reliable pickup trucks. It has an excellent reliability rating from J.D. Power with a 4.5 out of 5.0 score. This reliable truck has six trims, two body styles, and two engines to ensure drivers can easily find the right 2018 Toyota Tacoma to drive.

What makes the 2018 Honda Ridgeline the second-place truck?

The Ridgeline approaches midsize truck driving differently from all other trucks in this class. This is the only unibody truck, sharing a platform and powertrain configuration with the Honda Pilot. This setup allows the Ridgeline to be comfortable and smooth on the road and still offers truck capabilities to drivers.

Is the 2018 Honda Ridgeline a good used truck?

This Honda pickup is a good truck. It ranks second among the best used compact trucks from 2018 and has become a useful vehicle. For consumers looking for a pickup that offers occasional truck capabilities while being a smooth daily driver, the 2018 Honda Ridgeline fits the bill.

U.S. News tells us the 2018 Honda Ridgeline offers:

• A versatile bed with an in-bed stereo and underfloor trunk
• Refined upscale interior
• Spacious passenger area
• Comfortable ride and engaging handling
• Class-leading safety scores

Despite these positive qualities, the Ridgeline only has one engine, doesn’t tow as much as rivals, and is more expensive than most other midsize pickups.

The best used compact trucks offer different ways to handle your driving desires and needs. The 2018 Toyota Tacoma is great on the trails, has several configurations, and is the best-selling truck in this class. The 2018 Honda Ridgeline offers a smooth, comfortable ride, brings unique features, and offers desired safety scores.

Next, check out some affordable new trucks, or learn more about the best used compact trucks in this video below: