Cars

Midsize Pickup Comparisons

Midsize pickups like the Toyota Tacoma bridge the gap between work truck and daily driver. They are easier to park and maneuver than full-size trucks, yet they can tow a trailer, carry dirt bikes or lumber in the bed, and handle rough trails with the right equipment.

Configuration matters more here than in most classes. Cab style, bed length, drivetrain and engine all change the numbers, sometimes dramatically. A towing rating is only meaningful for one specific combination, so check the exact configuration you are considering. The base version is rarely the one with the highest rating.

Powertrains range from turbocharged four-cylinders to hybrids and V6 engines. Torque is the figure to watch if you tow or haul, since it describes pulling power at lower engine speeds. Gas mileage is typically lower than a crossover’s because of the truck’s weight, boxy shape and four-wheel-drive hardware.

Off-road trims add skid plates, locking differentials, specialized suspension and all-terrain tires. They improve capability on trails but can cost you some on-road comfort and gas mileage, so pay for them only if you will use them.

Inside, crew cabs seat five with rear room that suits adults on shorter trips, while extended cabs trade rear-seat space for a longer bed. If you are comparing a pickup with an SUV, the key question is whether an open bed and higher towing capacity outweigh the enclosed, weatherproof cargo area and smoother ride of an SUV.

20 comparisons · 7 products