Best Pickup Trucks in Ireland: A 2024 Guide

1. Ford Ranger

The Ford Ranger remains a favourite in Ireland due to its balance of power, efficiency, and features. The 2024 model is equipped with the latest 2.0-litre EcoBlue diesel engine, known for its fuel efficiency and low emissions.

The Ranger’s towing capacity of up to 3,500 kg makes it an excellent choice for those who need to haul heavy loads, whether for work or leisure activities like boating or caravanning.

Real-world Insight: One of the key reasons the Ranger stands out is its comprehensive suite of driver assistance technologies, including adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping aid, making it as comfortable on long motorway journeys as on rough terrain.

2. Toyota Hilux

3. Volkswagen Amarok

Renowned for Premium comfort and powerful performance.

The Volkswagen Amarok challenges the conventional pickup truck with its impressive 3.0-litre V6 TDI engine, which can produce up to 258 horsepower, and its luxurious cabin.

It offers comfort similar to a car and a payload capacity that rivals the best in luxury and utility.

The Amarok operates well in any situation thanks to its 4MOTION four-wheel drive system and off-road settings.

4. Isuzu D-Max

The Isuzu D-Max is a no-nonsense workhorse, ideal for those who need a dependable vehicle for tough jobs. The 1.9-litre turbo diesel engine is slightly underpowered compared to rivals, but what it lacks in horsepower, it makes up for in reliability and ease of maintenance.

The D-Max is also one of the few pickups that still offer a manual transmission, catering to drivers who prefer more control over their vehicle.

Real-world Insight: The D-Max’s interior has been updated for 2024 with better materials and more tech features, addressing previous complaints about its somewhat spartan cabin. This makes it more appealing for those who spend long hours behind the wheel.

5. Nissan Navara

The Nissan Navara stands out with its combination of performance and comfort. The twin-turbo 2.3-litre diesel engine is powerful and efficient, making it a practical choice for those who rack up high mileage.

The Navara’s fully independent rear suspension is unique in the pickup segment, providing a ride quality that rivals many SUVs.

Real-world Insight: The Navara is particularly popular among those who use their pickups for work and family duties. Its spacious cabin has features like leather upholstery and a premium infotainment system, making it a versatile choice for diverse needs.

User Scenarios for Choosing the Best Pickup Truck in Ireland

Construction Worker Needing a Durable Workhorse

• Scenario: You’re a builder needing a reliable truck that can handle heavy loads, rough terrains, and long hours on the job site.
• Recommendation: The Toyota Hilux is ideal for transporting materials and tools. It is known for its toughness and high payload capacity.

Outdoor Enthusiast Looking for Off-Road Adventures

• Scenario: You spend weekends exploring off-road trails and need a truck that can handle muddy, rocky, or uneven terrain.
• Recommendation: The Mitsubishi L200 offers advanced 4WD capabilities, making it a great choice for off-road enthusiasts.

Family Person Using the Truck for Mixed Purposes

• Scenario: You need a versatile pickup that doubles as a family vehicle during the week and a utility vehicle on weekends.
• Recommendation: The Nissan Navara offers a comfortable SUV-like cabin with advanced safety features, making it suitable for family use while still being a capable workhorse.

Business Owner Seeking Fuel Efficiency and Low Running Costs

• Scenario: You run a small business and need a pickup with good fuel efficiency to keep running costs low.
• Recommendation: The Ford Ranger, with its EcoBlue diesel engine, delivers excellent fuel economy, making it cost-effective for daily use.

Urban Commuter with Occasional Need for Cargo Space

Recommendation: The Isuzu D-Max is compact enough for urban driving but offers enough bed space and a manageable payload for occasional cargo needs.

Scenario: You live in the city and need a pickup primarily for commuting but occasionally require the bed space for larger items.

Key Considerations for Irish Buyers

When choosing a pickup truck, consider factors like fuel economy, especially with fluctuating fuel prices and road tax, which can vary significantly depending on the engine size. Also, assess the availability of after-sales service in your area, which can impact the long-term ownership experience.

Overview of Regular Maintenance

Several regular inspections and services are required for pickup truck maintenance. Following a maintenance plan keeps your truck operating safely and effectively while extending its lifespan. The following are some typical maintenance tasks you shouldn’t ignore:

• Oil Changes: Routine oil changes are crucial for keeping your engine operating smoothly. Generally, changing the oil every 10,000 to 15,000 kilometres is advised, though this can vary depending on your model and usage.
• Tyre Rotations and Pressure Checks: Tyre rotations should be carried out every 8,000 to 10,000 kilometres to guarantee consistent tyre wear and sustain maximum fuel efficiency. Monthly tyre pressure checks are also necessary for efficiency and safety.
• Brake Inspections: Because pickup trucks are large and heavy, it’s crucial to keep the braking system in good working order. Although yearly inspections are advised, you should get your car checked immediately if you notice any strange noises or changes in how it brakes.
• Fluid Checks: Routinely check and replenish fluids like gearbox, coolant, and brake fluid to prevent costly repairs and breakdowns.

Following through on these maintenance duties assists in the early detection of possible problems, preventing later severe issues.

Cost of Ownership

Owning a pickup truck involves additional expenses beyond the original purchase price. Here is a breakdown of the expenses:

Fuel

Pickup trucks, especially those with larger engines, tend to use more fuel. The price will change based on how much you drive and how fuel-efficient your truck is. Due to their superior mileage, diesel engines can be a more economical choice for longer distances.

Insurance

Depending on the truck’s value, engine size, and usage, insurance for pickup trucks may be more expensive than for regular cars. Costs can be managed by comparing insurance quotes and selecting a plan that best suits your needs.

Tax

The motor tax rate for pickup trucks in Ireland can differ substantially depending on whether the truck is registered for private or commercial use; the rate for commercial use is typically lower.

Maintenance Costs

The cost of routine maintenance can mount up. Budgeting for yearly maintenance, tyre replacements, brake pad replacements and unexpected repairs is a good idea.

Depending on how old and in good shape your truck is, setting aside 500 to 1,000 annually for maintenance is a good place to start.

Understanding these expenses is crucial for efficiently managing your finances and guaranteeing that your pickup truck maintains its value over time.

Even though pickup trucks may cost more to buy and maintain initially than smaller cars, their strength, usefulness, and adaptability frequently make the investment worthwhile when maintained properly.

Final Thoughts

The best pickup trucks available in Ireland combine comfort, performance, and dependability to meet a range of demands and tastes.

This list includes pickups suitable for a variety of uses, including comfortable family transportation, daily work tasks, and tough off-road adventures.

Offering something for every pickup enthusiast, these models stand out in the Irish market thanks to technological, safety, and fuel-efficient advancements.

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