2000 Chevrolet S-10

This S-10 is Chevy's compact pickup for 2000, the one that slots below the full-size Silverado and competes with the Ford Ranger and Toyota Tacoma. The S-10 feels tough and handles well, especially off-road, and it pulls hills without hesitation even when loaded. Inside, you get a roomy cab for a compact truck, though the plastics are cheap and crack easily, and the extended cab's rear seats are tight for adults. Owners report the fuel pump and alternator are common trouble spots, and rust can be an issue in salt-belt states. This base S-10 is the one to pick if you want a simple, no-frills work truck; the LS adds more comfort features, but the base keeps the price down and the weight low. The 2.2L I4 pairs with a five-speed manual or a four-speed automatic, and it's rear-wheel drive, so you get decent fuel economy but modest towing capacity. The base trim skips the tachometer and carpeting, so expect a vinyl floor and a sparse interior that's easy to hose out after a muddy job.