What You Need to Know About the Latest Mid-Size Trucks

Sometimes you don’t need to go to a big-box store when a smaller one will do just fine. It’s a growing trend in the pickup-truck market, too. Manufacturers have crafted mid-size machines that can tow several tons or haul gear in their open beds without overly punishing owners at the gas pump or being hard to park. Here are three options that are getting attention from truck fans.

The fan favourite: Jeep Gladiator

More than a Wrangler with a bed attached, the Gladiator utilizes a robust frame that stretches a full 75 centimetres longer than a four-door Wrangler. In true Jeep form, it has the off-road abilities of a mountain goat, especially in Rubicon trim. For maximum fun, go ahead and remove the roof, take off the doors and fold down the windshield. And, yes, you can get a manual transmission.

Price: from $45,495

Engine / power: 3.6-litre V6, 285 hp, 260 lb-ft of torque; 3.0-litre diesel V6, 260 hp, 442 lb-ft of torque

The high-tech pickup: Chevy Colorado

Offered in a wide array of configurations, from the two-wheel-drive base trim to macho off-road models, the Colorado can fit many different budgets. Popular four-door Crew Cab 4×4s include a 308-horsepower V6 engine, but a torque-y diesel is also available. The mighty ZR2 trim deploys technology developed for Formula One cars in its suspension dampers, allowing off-roaders to explore with ease.

Price: from $27,000

Engine / power: 2.5-litre I4, 200 hp, 191 lb-ft of torque; 3.6-litre V6, 308 hp, 275 lb-ft of torque; 2.8-litre diesel I4, 181 hp, 369 lb-ft of torque

The big name in mid-size trucks: Ford Ranger

This nameplate truck is back in the modern era with a turbocharged four-cylinder engine. This time around, the Ranger is packed with fresh tech like adaptive cruise control, which is part of an optional technology package. When put to work, a properly equipped Ranger can haul 3,400 kilograms. In Canada, the 2019 Ranger is offered only in four-wheel drive.

Price: from $31,069

Engine / power: 2.3-litre turbocharged I4, 270 hp, 310 lb-ft of torque

Keep reading

Find out how the 2019 Toyota TRD Pro Line does on a rugged off-road course. Plus, take our quiz to see if you can match the famous car to its famous owner.

Image credit: Courtesy of manufacturers