Best Compact Trucks for Towing
When it comes to towing, compact trucks have become a surprising powerhouse in the segment so what are the best compact trucks for towing.
While full-size trucks often dominate discussions about hauling and towing, compact trucks offer an impressive balance between power, efficiency, and affordability.
If you need a truck that can handle moderate towing jobs without sacrificing fuel economy or maneuverability, this guide will help you identify the best compact trucks for towing in 2025.
Why Choose a Compact Truck for Towing?
Compact trucks provide several advantages for drivers who don’t need the brute strength of a full-size pickup.
These smaller trucks excel in urban environments, are easier to park, and often come with better fuel efficiency.
Additionally, they offer enough towing capacity to handle trailers, boats, and smaller campers, making them ideal for weekend warriors, outdoor enthusiasts, and light-duty contractors.
Key Factors to Consider for Towing
Before diving into the top models, it’s crucial to consider what makes a compact truck good for towing:
- Towing Capacity – Compact trucks typically tow between 3,500 to 7,500 lbs. Ensure the truck’s maximum capacity aligns with your towing needs.
- Engine Power – Turbocharged engines or V6 options often provide the best balance of power and efficiency.
- Transmission – Automatic transmissions with towing modes help manage heavy loads better.
- Braking Systems – Integrated trailer brake controllers improve towing safety.
- Suspension – Trucks equipped with reinforced suspensions are more stable under load.
- Hitch and Towing Packages – Look for factory-installed towing packages that include hitches, wiring harnesses, and transmission coolers.
Top Compact Trucks for Towing in 2025
1. Ford Ranger
- Towing Capacity: 7,500 lbs
- Engine: 2.3L EcoBoost I4 (270 hp, 310 lb-ft torque)
- Transmission: 10-speed automatic
- MPG: 21 city / 26 highway
- Highlight Feature: Advanced Trailer Tow Package with sway control and trailer brake controller.
- Why It Stands Out: The Ford Ranger leads the segment with its robust towing capacity, making it the top choice for those needing maximum towing performance from a compact truck.
2. Chevrolet Colorado
- Towing Capacity: 7,700 lbs (with turbo-diesel)
- Engine: 2.7L TurboMax I4 (310 hp, 430 lb-ft torque)
- Transmission: 8-speed automatic
- MPG: 19 city / 24 highway
- Highlight Feature: Diesel option provides best-in-class torque for heavy towing.
- Why It Stands Out: The Colorado offers multiple engine choices and a high-output turbo-diesel option, giving drivers a powerful yet efficient truck perfect for towing campers and trailers.
3. Toyota Tacoma
- Towing Capacity: 6,800 lbs
- Engine: 3.5L V6 (278 hp, 265 lb-ft torque)
- Transmission: 6-speed automatic/manual
- MPG: 20 city / 23 highway
- Highlight Feature: Tow Package with Class-IV hitch receiver, oil cooler, and trailer sway control.
- Why It Stands Out: The Tacoma is known for its durability and off-road capability, making it a versatile choice for towing and outdoor adventures.
4. Nissan Frontier
- Towing Capacity: 6,720 lbs
- Engine: 3.8L V6 (310 hp, 281 lb-ft torque)
- Transmission: 9-speed automatic
- MPG: 18 city / 24 highway
- Highlight Feature: Fully boxed frame and intelligent around-view monitor for easier trailer hookup.
- Why It Stands Out: The Frontier offers excellent towing capacity paired with Nissan’s reputation for reliability and low maintenance costs.
5. Jeep Gladiator
- Towing Capacity: 7,700 lbs
- Engine: 3.6L V6 (285 hp, 260 lb-ft torque)
- Transmission: 8-speed automatic/manual
- MPG: 16 city / 23 highway
- Highlight Feature: Off-road capability with strong towing performance.
- Why It Stands Out: The Gladiator blends Jeep’s legendary off-road capability with strong towing performance, making it a favorite for adventure seekers.
Comparison Table
| Model | Towing Capacity | Engine | MPG (City/Highway) | Highlight Feature |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ford Ranger | 7,500 lbs | 2.3L EcoBoost I4 | 21/26 | Advanced Trailer Tow Package |
| Chevrolet Colorado | 7,700 lbs | 2.7L TurboMax I4 | 19/24 | Turbo-diesel with best-in-class torque |
| Toyota Tacoma | 6,800 lbs | 3.5L V6 | 20/23 | Durable and versatile |
| Nissan Frontier | 6,720 lbs | 3.8L V6 | 18/24 | Intelligent trailer hookup system |
| Jeep Gladiator | 7,700 lbs | 3.6L V6 | 16/23 | Off-road and towing blend |
Conclusion
Choosing the best compact trucks for towing in 2025 ultimately depends on your specific needs.
If you prioritize maximum towing capacity, the Chevy Colorado and Jeep Gladiator stand out with their 7,700-lb ratings.
For balanced performance and urban drivability, the Ford Ranger offers exceptional value. Meanwhile, the Toyota Tacoma and Nissan Frontier shine with their reliability and rugged builds.
Compact trucks are proving they can punch above their weight class, offering towing capabilities that rival larger pickups.
With the right choice, you’ll have a capable, efficient vehicle ready for your next towing adventure.
Sources
Ford Ranger Towing Capacity – https://www.ford.com/trucks/ranger/2024/features/towing/
Chevrolet Colorado Specs – https://www.chevrolet.com/trucks/colorado/specs
Toyota Tacoma Towing Guide – https://www.toyota.com/tacoma/features/towing
Nissan Frontier Towing – https://www.nissanusa.com/vehicles/trucks/frontier/features/towing.html
Jeep Gladiator Towing Information – https://www.jeep.com/gladiator/capability.html