Choosing Between Compact and Midsize Pickup Trucks
The US market offers a wide range of pickup trucks from various manufacturers, raising the question: Do you really need a midsize truck, or is a compact truck sufficient? This article compares compact trucks with midsize trucks in terms of capabilities such as towing, cargo, and performance to help you make an informed decision.
Compact Trucks: A Revitalized Segment
Currently, the Ford Maverick and Hyundai Santa Cruz are the primary compact truck options available. These unibody pickups are gaining popularity due to their competitive pricing against SUVs. The segment is expected to expand with new compact pickup trucks from major manufacturers. Compact trucks offer a middle ground for customers who find full-size trucks too large but still want the utility of a pickup.
Midsize Trucks: Good Enough For Most
Midsize trucks, dominated by models like the Toyota Tacoma, Chevrolet Colorado, and Nissan Frontier, offer a balance between drivability and capability. They’re suitable for most users as they’re easier to drive than full-size trucks while maintaining significant towing and performance capabilities.
Towing Capacity: A Key Consideration
Compact trucks generally have smaller engines and lower towing capacities compared to midsize trucks. For example, the Ford Maverick can tow up to 4,000 lbs with the towing package, while the Ford Ranger can tow up to 7,500 lbs. The Hyundai Santa Cruz can tow up to 5,000 lbs, still less than many midsize trucks like the GMC Canyon, which can tow 7,700 lbs.
Payload Capacity: Compact Trucks Are Competitive
While midsize trucks typically have larger payload capacities, the difference isn’t as significant as one might expect. The Ford Maverick can accommodate up to 1,500 lbs, only 305 lbs less than the Ford Ranger. The Hyundai Santa Cruz has a payload capacity of 1,411 lbs. The size of the bed also matters, with midsize trucks generally offering more space.
Bed and Cabin Size: Similarities and Differences
Despite their smaller size, compact trucks have interiors similar to midsize trucks. For instance, the Hyundai Santa Cruz and Honda Ridgeline have comparable interior space, with the Santa Cruz offering slightly more rear headroom. However, midsize trucks have significantly larger beds; the Ford Ranger has a five-foot bed, while the Nissan Frontier offers a six-foot bed.
Performance and Efficiency: Compact Trucks Shine
Compact pickups are more efficient than their midsize counterparts. The Ford Maverick hybrid achieves 38 mpg combined, outperforming the Ranger’s maximum of 23 mpg combined. However, midsize trucks offer higher performance ceilings, with options like the Toyota Tacoma’s 326 horsepower hybrid engine and the Ford Ranger Raptor’s 405 hp.
Summary: Do You Really Need A Midsize Pickup?
For most users, compact trucks offer sufficient capability while being easier to drive and more fuel-efficient. They’re also generally more affordable, with the Ford Maverick being nearly $10,000 cheaper than the Ford Ranger. Test driving both types can help determine which best suits your needs.
Reasons To Buy A Compact Pickup
- Frequent city driving
- Desire to save on gas
- Tighter budget
- Preference for car-like driving dynamics
- Rarely tow or carry heavy loads
Reasons To Buy A Mid-Size Pickup
- Frequent intense off-roading
- Often carry three passengers in the back
- Need to tow or carry heavier loads
- Desire more power
