Midsize trucks have gradually evolved into a very important space within the automobile industry, and the competition within the segment is almost as fierce as what goes on in the full-size pickup market. They offer the utility of the full-size trucks but in a slightly smaller package and for several customers, that is just perfect. Available four-wheel-drive options and a host of terrain management systems means they can be just as capable off-road or even better than their larger siblings. Some of them also boast impressive towing capacities, ideal for that customer who needs a proper work truck.
The major players in the midsize truck segment have always included carmakers like Ford, GM, and Toyota; but now, other names are beginning to take an active interest in the segment. For 2021, here are some of the best new midsize trucks that are in a hot battle for market share.
8 Honda Ridgeline
The Ridgeline may not be at the level of its more established rivals but it is still a very decent truck with plenty to offer. It lacks true off-roading credentials but the Ridgeline will still shine at most day-to-day tasks. The 2021 model comes with a visual refresh that should make it more striking and visually appealing.
It also boasts class-leading interior space and packs a comprehensive suite of driver assistance technologies and clever additions like adaptive cruise control and a multi-function tailgate. A 5-star rating from National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is another big plus in the Ridgeline's favor.
7 Jeep Gladiator
This imperious American pickup is as rugged as they come; with a formidable off-roading capability that's one of its key strengths. This is made possible with features like the impressive 10-inch ground clearance, skid plates, and rock-crawling axle ratios.
Removable body and roof panels only add to the truck's versatility and when you consider the fact that the Gladiator can tow up to 7,650 pounds, you have a real winner here. The Gladiator is not perfect; fuel economy is unimpressive and the steering can be quite fussy on highways but these are minor downsides to an otherwise excellent machine.
6 Toyota Tacoma
The 2021 Tacoma is offered in up to 6 different trim levels, ensuring that there's something for everyone in the market shopping for a capable work truck. It's a strategy that's helped propel the Tacoma to the top of the charts, out-selling every competitor by a comfortable margin in 2020. There's even a manual transmission option available with the TRD options, making this a real bargain for those who can afford it.
The Tacoma also comes standard with the carmaker's highly capable Toyota Safety Sense P (TSS-P) suite that includes driver-assist and safety features like lane departure warning, emergency braking, and automatic high-beams. This is a truck that ranks among the best in its class with its rugged off-road capability and day-to-day practicability.
5 Chevrolet Colorado
This is another midsize truck offered in a variety of trims and configurations; from the base Work Truck trim to the premium ZR2 at the other end. The Colorado disappoints somewhat with an interior where the materials feel cheap and subpar compared with other rivals in its class.
The base 4-cylinder engine is also rather underwhelming with less than 200 lb-ft of torque however things improve rapidly as you move up through the engine options. The Colorado also shines with well-mannered steering and a comfortable ride experience. Then there's the cargo bed that offers one of the largest spaces in the midsize truck segment.
4 Ford Ranger
Granted, this is not the Raptor variant but there's still plenty to love about the 2021 Ford Ranger. There's adequate power in the form of a turbocharged 4-cylinder powerplant that transfers up to 270 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque to either the rear wheels or all 4 wheels via a 10-speed automatic transmission.
The Ranger can also be had with a clever Terrain Management System that allows you to adjust things like the engine responsiveness to get the best out of the truck in various types of terrain. The interior could do with a refresh but the Ford Ranger remains a very capable contender in its class.
3 GMC Canyon
The Canyon, like the Chevrolet Colorado, are both manufactured by General Motors and are based on the same platform. It makes sense then that the GMC Canyon also has a comfortable ride and handling that's well above average.
In the end, it all boils down to customer preferences even though the Canyon is slightly better equipped. There's also a premium Denali trim complete with chrome grille, 'diamond-cut'-style aluminum wheels, and leather upholstery that the nicest Colorado trims can't match.
2 Nissan Frontier
There is little doubt that the Frontier is aging and lags behind its competitors by a fair margin especially in terms of its equipment loadout; you don't even get adaptive cruise control as an option. It had its debut in 2005 and very little has changed since then.
Thankfully, there should be a new model for 2022. For now, the 2021 model makes do with a refreshed powertrain - a 4.0-liter V6 that makes over 300 hp. It is not enough for a complete rebranding but it should still satisfy customers who just require a basic work truck for everyday tasks.
1 Hyundai Santa Cruz
Hyundai has been flirting with the idea for some time but will finally take the 'leap of faith' into the pickup segment with the Hyundai Santa Cruz, set to hit the market sometime in 2021. It will not be easy but the feisty-looking pickup seems poised to give a good account of itself.
The Santa Cruz offers agile crossover agility but that open bed rightly qualifies it as a pickup as well. A host of innovative features and a capable powertrain should hopefully appeal to potential customers and help the Santa Cruz gain a loyal following.