Which Midsize Truck Is Best For Daily Driving And Weekend Adventures
Midsize trucks are the sweet spot for many drivers: they’re more maneuverable than full-size pickups, yet still offer impressive capability.
The 2024 model year brings a slew of redesigns and updates, making the choice tougher than ever.
Let’s dive into the details of five major contenders to help you find the perfect truck for your needs.
The Contenders:
| Truck | Ford Ranger | Chevrolet Colorado/GMC Canyon | Toyota Tacoma | Nissan Frontier |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Starting MSRP | ~$28,000 | ~$30,000 | ~$29,000 | ~$29,000 |
| Engine Options | Turbo 4-cyl, V6 | Turbo 4-cyl, Turbo 2.7L I4 | Turbo 4-cyl, Hybrid | V6 |
| Max Payload | ~1,900 lbs | ~1,600 lbs | ~1,700 lbs | ~1,600 lbs |
| Max Towing | ~7,500 lbs | ~7,700 lbs | ~6,500 lbs | ~6,700 lbs |
1. Ford Ranger: The Well-Rounded Performer
- Fuel Economy: Decent, but not class-leading.
- Interior Comfort: Spacious and comfortable, but design feels dated compared to some rivals.
- Technology: Features Ford’s latest SYNC 4 infotainment system, available with large touchscreen and digital instrument cluster.
- Off-Road: Raptor trim is a beast, with Fox shocks, upgraded suspension, and Terrain Management System.
- Pros: Excellent handling, comfortable ride, wide range of trims and powertrains
- Cons: Interior design a bit dated, base engine lacks power
The Ranger excels in everyday driving. Its turbocharged V6 is a blast, and the Raptor variant offers extreme off-road prowess.
The interior, while functional, lags behind some rivals in terms of modern design.
2. Chevrolet Colorado/GMC Canyon: Twins with Attitude
Fuel Economy: Good for the power on tap, especially with the base turbo 4-cylinder.
- Interior Comfort: Modern and tech-forward, but rear legroom can be tight in crew cabs. Canyon Denali offers luxurious appointments.
- Technology: Available with Google Built-In infotainment, digital instrument cluster, Super Cruise (hands-free driving on select highways).
- Off-Road: ZR2 models offer impressive capability, with Multimatic DSSV dampers, electronic locking differentials, and skid plates.
- Pros: Powerful turbocharged engines, tech-forward interior, upscale Canyon Denali trim
- Cons: Firm ride, cramped rear seats in crew cab models
These twins share underpinnings, but the Canyon leans more luxurious than the Colorado.
The 2.7L turbo I4 is a beast, and the ZR2 models are off-road ready. However, ride quality isn’t as plush as some competitors.
3. Toyota Tacoma: The Endurance Champion
- Fuel Economy: Best in class with the new i-Force Max hybrid powertrain (estimated 24-28 MPG).
- Interior Comfort: Improved for 2024, with more premium materials and better ergonomics.
- Technology: New 14-inch touchscreen infotainment system available, digital instrument cluster, upgraded safety tech.
- Off-Road: TRD Pro models are legendary, with Multi-Terrain Select, Crawl Control, locking rear differential.
- Pros: Legendary reliability, available hybrid powertrain (2024), rugged off-road capability
- Cons: Conservative styling, limited towing capacity compared to some rivals
The Tacoma’s redesign brings a much-needed tech upgrade and the first hybrid option in the segment.
It’s built to last and can conquer challenging terrain. However, its design is evolutionary rather than revolutionary.
4. Nissan Frontier: The Value Proposition
- Fuel Economy: Lowest of the bunch, expect to fill up more often.
- Interior Comfort: Surprisingly plush seats and good sound insulation make for a comfortable ride.
- Technology: Straightforward and functional, but not as cutting-edge as some competitors.
- Off-Road: Pro-4X trim is capable, with Bilstein shocks, electronic locking rear differential, and skid plates.
- Pros: Strong V6 engine, comfortable interior, straightforward tech
- Cons: Limited powertrain choices, dated platform
The Frontier is a solid, no-nonsense truck with a powerful engine and a surprisingly comfortable ride.
It lacks the latest tech and advanced powertrains of some rivals, but its affordability makes it an attractive option.
Which One is Right for You?
The “best” truck depends entirely on your priorities:
- Prioritize Off-Road Prowess: Ranger Raptor, Colorado ZR2, or Tacoma TRD Pro
- Want Maximum Power: Colorado/Canyon with the 2.7L turbo I4
- Value and Reliability: Nissan Frontier or Toyota Tacoma (non-hybrid)
- Daily Driving Comfort: Ford Ranger or GMC Canyon Denali
Beyond the Specs:
Don’t forget to consider factors like:
- Dealership Experience: Test drive multiple trucks to see which feels best.
- Resale Value: Tacomas typically hold their value well.
- Fuel Economy: The Tacoma Hybrid promises excellent efficiency.
Sources
- Car and Driver: https://www.caranddriver.com/rankings/best-pickup-trucks/mid-size
- Ford Official Website: https://www.ford.com/trucks/ranger/
- Chevrolet Official Website: https://www.chevrolet.com/trucks/colorado
- GMC Official Website: https://www.gmc.com/trucks/canyon
- Toyota Official Website: https://www.toyota.com/tacoma/
- Nissan Official Website: https://www.nissanusa.com/vehicles/trucks/frontier.html
The 2024 midsize truck market is rich with options. With thorough research and test drives, you’re sure to find the perfect truck to haul your gear and adventures for years to come.
We hope you enjoyed this information and apply it to your next buying needs and let us know in the comments below you thoughts on Which Midsize Truck Is Best For Daily Driving And Weekend Adventures.