Trucks are versatile vehicles providing transportation, utility, and off-road adventures into one package. Mid-size pickup trucks are among the most popular options when shopping for a car to meet your needs. When you begin exploring the market, you’ll discover several mid-size trucks worth the price tag.
Narrowing your options requires time and research to help you get the best deal on a Toyota Tacoma or a GMC Canyon. You’ll enjoy luxury and class from the pavement to the mountain trails. Your research will guide you to the best mid-size trucks for the money.
Fortunately, you’re already a step ahead. You’ve found this helpful resource for learning about the best mid-size trucks. Continue reading to find a reliable mid-size truck today!
1. Toyota Tacoma
The Toyota Tacoma has a long-established reputation for reliability. The third-generation models held firm for eight years, but the fourth generation arrived in 2024. The new Tacoma uses a body-on-frame design that creates a lower center of gravity for a more controlled driving experience.
Lower cowl height and enhanced stiffness are other changes in the new design. Combined with a new powerplant, they will revolutionize the Tacoma into an efficient and reliable mid-size truck.
The 2024 Tacoma will use a turbocharged four-cylinder engine to help drivers reach their destinations using less fuel. A redesigned interior adds to the value of the Toyota Tacoma, helping you get more from your money.
The base engine produces 278 horsepower and 315 pound-feet of torque. The upgraded engine pushes those numbers to 326 horsepower and 465 pound-feet of torque. Both options are capable of meeting your needs when you’re upgrading your ride.
2. Ford Ranger
Mid-size trucks are popular due to their versatility as daily drivers while handling tasks you wouldn’t ask an SUV or sedan to cover. One of the iconic mid-size trucks of previous decades was the Ford Ranger. Truck enthusiasts celebrated when Ford announced the return of the Ranger.
The Ranger used the same look and engine for its first five years in the United States, but the T6 platform is getting significant renovations for the 2024 model year. The 2024 Ford Ranger is getting a needed facelift and new engine options.
With the LXT and Lariat trim options, you can pay more and opt for a 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 engine. The other option is a 2.7-liter turbocharged engine producing 315 horsepower and 400 pound-feet of torque.
Another perk of the Ford Ranger is its styling. Its styling is in line with other Ford trucks, like the F-150. The styling could be good or bad, depending on the shopper. The most controversial aspect of the new design is the C-shaped headlights.
3. Chevrolet Colorado
The 2023 Chevrolet Colorado was the first substantial upgrade to the design since the 2015 models. The 2023 edition uses a new chassis for a body-on-frame design. The chassis is also fully boxed to improve durability when tackling challenging tasks.
Thanks to the newly designed leather interior, you’ll enjoy a luxurious ride when taking your Colorado for a spin. The new engine is another benefit that helps these mid-size trucks pack more of a punch when on the throttle.
The 2.7-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine produces enough power to put down 430 pound-feet of torque, helping you tow without stress or fear. A notable change is the elimination of a mid-tier engine option. Colorado owners will need to choose between the standard or high-output engine options.
The polished design paired with the 11-inch infotainment system makes the Chevrolet Colorado one of the best mid-size trucks to consider. The starting price is $31,095.
4. GMC Canyon
GMC is an auto manufacturer owned by General Motors, falling under the same umbrella as Chevrolet. In many cases, Chevrolet and GMC produce the same models under different names and with various trim packages.
The GMC Canyon falls into that pattern, mirroring several design elements of its cousin, the Chevrolet Colorado. Both pickup trucks are worthy options when shopping for mid-size pickup trucks.
The Canyon’s powertrain options are identical, featuring comfortable and upscale interiors. The primary way to choose between the two trucks is to compare their aesthetics and buy the one you love most.
It’s worth noting that you’ll pay a bit more for the GMC Canyon. GMC is a brand that focuses on providing a more luxurious experience to customers, resulting in quality finishing touches. The result is a mid-size truck that costs $36,000.
5. Nissan Frontier
The Nissan Frontier, with its same design, held down the fort for what felt like a decade until the 2022 model’s redesign. The performance was impressive, but the design had long grown stale. The 2024 Nissan Frontier has evolved and become a top option when comparing the best mid-size trucks for the money.
The revamped 2022 model came with a new chassis, interior, and body to change the look and appeal to mid-size truck shoppers. The angular body design and sleek lines make the Frontier look like a worthy competitor to the Tacoma, Canyon, and Colorado.
It uses a body-on-frame design to improve handling and ruggedness when on the road or hitting the trail. Despite the lack of changes in the previous two model years, the Frontier is an attractive option for those wanting a reliable mid-size truck.
The engine produces 310 horsepower and 281 pound-feet of torque and is paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. The double-wishbone suspension is another perk you’ll enjoy when taking turns and corners in your Frontier.
Another significant win is the Frontier’s price point. It is a few thousand dollars lower than the top competitors. A 2024 Nissan Frontier can be purchased for $29,930, making it the best value for mid-size pickup trucks.
Start Shopping for Mid-Size Pickup Trucks Today
Purchasing a reliable mid-size truck is a wise investment, as these trucks will meet your needs and demands and hold their value when you’re ready to upgrade. The Toyota Tacoma is the most famous option when comparing mid-size pickup trucks, though the Nissan Frontier offers similar performance at a lower price. Other top choices include the Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon.
Shopping for a new car can become stressful due to the number of options available. Read our blog content for guidance and tips for finding the perfect vehicle at the right price today!
