Small Trucks Rise Up: Every New Model to Know About

Compact but capable, small trucks are redefining utility and style.

This guide is continuously updated for relevance, accuracy, and the most recent info.


Mid-size trucks have come into their own. Once diminutive little pickups with a lack of style and actual capabilities, the latest small trucks hitting the market have turned a new leaf. They’re much bigger, look bolder than ever, offer improved powertrains with around 7,500 lbs towing on average, and possess interiors filled with tech and premium touches. This guide covers:

  • Toyota Tacoma 
  • Chevrolet Colorado
  • GMC Canyon
  • Honda Ridgeline
  • Hyundai Santa Cruz
  • Nissan Frontier
  • Ford Maverick
  • Jeep Gladiator
  • Ford Ranger

Toyota Tacoma

2024 Toyota Tacoma Limited in red front view
The redesigned 2024 Toyota Tacoma Limited. Photo: Amee Reehal

Key features:

Next-generation 2024 model with new i-FORCE MAX hybrid

First-ever Tacoma Trailhunter factory-spec overlander

New 14-inch touchscreen & 12.3-inch gauge cluster

The Toyota Tacoma received a significant redesign in 2024, introducing a standard i-FORCE turbocharged 2.4L 4-cylinder engine across its lineup, delivering 228 hp in the entry-level SR trim and 278 hp in higher trims, all matched with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Highlighting its advancements, the Tacoma now features a hybrid model with the i-FORCE MAX engine, producing 326 hp and 465 lb.-ft. of torque, showcasing a substantial power and efficiency increase over its predecessor.

Visit our Tacoma page for the latest, including first-drive 2024 Tacoma reviews.


Slight overhead view and action shot of ZR2 kicking up dirt down a desert hill.
The burly 2024 Colorado ZR2 Bison. Photo: Chevy

Key features:

New 2.7L turbo engine with more power

First-ever Colorado Trail Boss and ZR2 Desert Boss

Interior gains 4 new trims with a 11.3-inch colour touchscreen

The Chevrolet Colorado sets a high standard for comfort in the mid-size pickup segment, boasting a spacious cabin and smooth ride. The 2023 model year introduced the ZR2 Desert Boss and Trail Boss models, part of a comprehensive redesign that includes four new interior trims. It now features a potent 2.7L turbo engine from the Silverado, available in three output levels, and shifts away from the regular cab, offering extended and Crew Cab configurations, setting a new tone for utility and comfort.

Visit our Colorado page for more reviews and news.


The 2024 Canyon AT4X AEV Edition front view off roading in the wild
2024 Canyon AEV. Photo: GMC

Key features:

2023 full redesign inside & out

First-ever Canyon AT4X

New 2.7L turbo engine across the lineup

GMC’s Canyon underwent a complete overhaul for 2023, introducing a rugged new look, an all-new interior, and enhanced off-road capabilities with a standard factory lift and widened track. The lineup now includes the Canyon AT4X and the 2024 AT4X AEV Edition, both designed for off-road enthusiasts and featuring a 2.7L turbo engine optimized for high torque. New drive modes to tackle various terrains establish the Canyon as a top contender for off-road performance and luxury.

Visit our GMC Canyon page for the latest.


The more adventure-ready 2024 Ridgeline TrailSport. Photo: Honda

Key features:

Side- and bottom-hinged tailgate

Best-in-AWD standard payload & towing capcity

Optional cargo bed “exciters” that turn the truck into one big speaker

The Honda Ridgeline, often criticized for not being a “real” truck, proves its worth with a significant 2021 redesign and maintains its appeal with a 280-hp, 3.5L VTEC engine and 9-speed transmission. The 2024 TrailSport edition enhances off-road capability with all-terrain tires, a tuned suspension, and steel underbody protection. It features advanced cabin comforts, including a 7-inch digital instrument panel, a 9-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and an innovative bed design that supports 4-foot-wide loads without a liner, secured by eight 350-pound tie-down cleats.


2023 Santa Cruz Night parked outside in front of trees
The stealthier-looking 2024 Santa Cruz Night. Photo: Hyundai

Key features:

270+ horsepower turbo engine

Small truck cargo with CUV drivability

Open bed with lockable tonneau cover

Dubbed a Sport Adventure Vehicle (we still call it a small unibody truck), Hyundai’s sleek-looking Santa Cruz first arrived in 2022: a mid-size pickup with compact crossover agility. For 2024, Hyundai introduces the Santa Cruz XRT, positioned just below the Limited trim, replacing the SEL Premium for an elevated driving experience with advanced features. Other 2024 updates across the lineup include standard Bi-LED projector headlamps, dual-zone automatic temperature control from the SEL trim, and a 10.25” Navigation system from the SEL with Activity Package and above. The NIGHT trim adds Black H-Tex seating surfaces, and steering wheel haptic feedback is now featured across all trims, enhancing functions like Lane Keeping Assist (LKA) and Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist (BCA).


2024 Nissan Frontier Hardbody Edition front view parked on a hill outside
The 2024 Frontier Hardbody Edition pays homage to its past. Photo: Nissan

Key features:

Full model redesign with rugged looks

New Pro-4X and off-road performance

New infotainment system with 8- and 9-inch screens

The Nissan Frontier received a long-awaited redesign for 2022, upgrading to a 310-hp, 3.8L V6 engine paired with a new nine-speed automatic transmission, and continues to impress into 2024. The Pro-4X variant is tailored for off-roading, featuring a rear-locking differential, Bilstein shocks, and skid plates, available in 2WD and 4WD configurations. The 2024 model introduces the Hardbody Edition, a nod to its 1980s predecessor, alongside a modern interior with new infotainment options and a slight adjustment in towing capacity to 6,490 pounds, solidifying its position as a durable and capable mid-size truck.

RelatedNissan Frontier Vs. Toyota Tacoma: When Options Matter


Ford Maverick

2023 Ford Maverick Tremor parked on a dirt hill
2023 Ford Maverick Tremor. Photo: Ford

Key features:

2.0L EcoBoost is now standard, replacing the 2.5L

Most fuel efficient truck on the market

First standard full-hybrid pickup in North America

Ford is riding the current wave of small truck popularity with the introduction of the 4-door Maverick — a compact pickup with impressive fuel economy thanks to a standard full-hybrid powertrain, a nimble size for easy maneuverability, storage space, and enough cabin capacity to accommodate five passengers comfortably. The premium Maverick Lariat is even more impressive for such a small truck.

2024 Ford Maverick in white parked at night near building
2024 Ford Maverick. Photo: Ford

For 2024, a significant change is the standard 2.0L EcoBoost paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, replacing the then standard 2.5L, 4-cylinder, where the 2022 Maverick offered up to 2,000 pounds of towing capacity. Also, the 2.5-liter Hybrid (FWD only) with Automatic Continuously Variable Transmission becomes an optional choice on all trims. Features such as the 400-watt inverter and Remote Start are no longer standalone options but are included in the XLT Luxury Package and Lariat Luxury Package. Additionally, new exterior colors Azure Gray Metallic Tri-Coat and Terrain are introduced, while Carbonized Gray Metallic and Iconic Silver Metallic become fleet-only options on XL.


Jeep Gladiator

2024 Jeep Gladiator Rubicon on stage at the Detroit Auto Show booth
2024 Jeep Gladiator Rubicon X. Photo: Graham Heeps

Key features:

Capable four-wheel drive system

Powerful diesel engine option

Removable top panels create a convertible feel

Introduced as a 2020 model, the Gladiator brings the off-road prowess and iconic appeal of the Wrangler SUV to the mid-size pickup segment. At the time, it was the third truck in this class to offer a diesel engine, a 3.0L V6 with more power than the four-cylinder in the Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon models. From the Wrangler, the Gladiator inherits underpinnings designed primarily for off-road driving, so performance on paved surfaces is less impressive than other trucks in this class. The cargo bed is also shallow compared to that of other pickups.

2024 Jeep Gladiator off roading in the dirt
2024 Jeep Gladiator Mojave X. Photo: Jeep

In 2024, the Jeep Gladiator receives a substantial refresh, introducing two new off-road models, the Mojave X and Rubicon X, both equipped with integrated off-road cameras. The iconic midsize truck showcases a unique seven-slot grille, optional power seats, and a standard 12.3-inch Uconnect touchscreen radio. With a maximum towing capacity of up to 7,700 pounds and a best-in-class maximum payload of 1,725 pounds, the Gladiator offers impressive performance. Inside, advanced technology features include 12-way power-adjustable front seats and a Uconnect 5 system featuring a 12.3-inch touchscreen.

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Ford Ranger

2024 Ford Ranger XL STX Lariat and Ranger Raptor XLT Sport
2024 Ford Ranger XL STX Lariat (left) and Ranger Raptor XLT Sport (right). Photo: Ford

Key features:

New Ranger Raptor arrives for 2024

Ford’s blind spot monitor will cover the entire length of a truck and trailer

First mid-size truck with a 10-speed transmission

One of the best-known names in pickups came back after an eight-year hiatus as the 2019 Ford re-entered the mid-size segment. Before leaving us, the Ranger was initially designed for the Australian market and modified for North American production. 

2024 Ford Ranger Raptor driving through the dirt and sand
2024 Ford Ranger Raptor. Photo: Ford

The 2024 Ford Ranger, redesigned for robust adventure, features a standard 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine and an optional more potent 2.7-liter EcoBoost V6. Equipped with new driver-assist technologies, it enhances both on- and off-road driving experiences. The Ranger introduces advanced towing tech, including Pro Trailer Backup Assist, an integrated trailer brake controller, and a 360-degree camera. Additional enhancements include an Integrated Box Side Step, fold-flat rear seats, increased width between wheel wells for cargo versatility, and in-bed and in-cab outlets for powering tools. As part of Ford’s global truck portfolio, the Ranger contributes to the brand’s status as the leading pickup manufacturer worldwide, available in over 180 markets.

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There you have it: all the latest mid-size trucks available right now. Next, take a look at all our latest truck reviews here.

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Author:
Chris Chase
Chris Chasehttps://chrischasescars.com/
Chris has been writing professionally about cars since 2004, in print and online. He lives in Ottawa with his wife and two feline tyrants. In rare quiet moments, he can be found travelling or playing one of his way-too-many guitars. Chris is also a journalist member of the Automobile Journalists Association of Canada (AJAC).