The midsize pickup segment is experiencing a resurgence, thanks in part to GM’s introduction of the Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon. This renewed interest has spurred innovation and competition, with Toyota refreshing its Tacoma, Honda committed to the Ridgeline, and even Hyundai considering entering the fray with a production version of the Santa Cruz concept. While some models are eagerly awaited, and others are established veterans, the current market offers a diverse range of options. For those looking to navigate this landscape and find the best midsized pickup to suit their needs, a closer look at the current offerings is essential.
Chevrolet Colorado
Chevrolet’s re-entry into the midsize pickup market with the Colorado has been impactful, and the 2016 Chevrolet Colorado model year brought even more to the table with the introduction of a diesel engine. This 2.8-liter, four-cylinder turbo-diesel not only delivers a robust 369 lb.-ft. of torque, enhancing the Colorado’s towing capacity to an impressive 7,700 lbs., but also promises to be the most fuel-efficient engine in the lineup. Despite producing 181 horsepower, this diesel is projected to exceed the already segment-leading fuel economy of the gasoline models, which achieve up to 27 mpg on the highway.
Beyond powertrain enhancements, the 2016 Colorado also received tech upgrades, including Apple CarPlay smartphone integration, leveraging OnStar’s 4G LTE connectivity and mobile Wi-Fi hotspot. For those seeking distinctive styling and off-road capability, the blacked-out Midnight Edition and the Z71 Trail Boss model cater to different tastes and needs.
Toyota Tacoma
The Toyota Tacoma has long been a dominant force in the midsize pickup segment, and the 2016 Toyota Tacoma marked a significant step forward with a comprehensive redesign. Inspired by the full-size Toyota Tundra, the 2016 Tacoma boasts a bolder and more modern aesthetic. Under the hood, a new V6 engine with Toyota’s D-4S injection technology delivers a notable performance increase, adding 42 horsepower compared to the previous V6, resulting in 278 hp and 265 lb.-ft. of torque. Towing capacity also saw an improvement, reaching 6,800 lbs.
Technology enhancements for the 2016 Tacoma include an upgraded Entune infotainment system with JBL audio, navigation, smartphone app integration, and Qi wireless charging. Safety features were also enhanced with a standard rearview camera, and available blind-spot monitor and rear cross-traffic alert. Popular trims like the SR5 and TRD off-road models continued to be offered, appealing to a wide range of buyers.
Honda Ridgeline
The original Honda Ridgeline carved out a unique niche as a unibody midsize pickup, offering car-like handling and ride comfort. Recognizing the evolving market and growing acceptance of crossover-style vehicles and smaller trucks, Honda decided to reinvent the Ridgeline. While details were still emerging at the time of this article, a design study showcased at the Chicago Auto Show hinted at a more traditional truck aesthetic for the next generation. According to Jeff Conrad, Honda division senior vice president and general manager, the new Ridgeline would feature “more traditional truck proportions and styling” while retaining the core strengths of “space efficiency, ride comfort and flexible utility” that earned the original Ridgeline accolades. Enthusiasts eagerly anticipated the calendar-year 2016 debut of this next-generation Honda Ridgeline.
GMC Canyon
The 2016 GMC Canyon shares much of its DNA with the Chevrolet Colorado, which is undoubtedly a positive attribute. The Canyon also stands out as one of the best midsize pickups, benefiting from the same upgrades as the Colorado, including the forthcoming Duramax turbodiesel engine and Apple CarPlay integration. However, the Canyon distinguishes itself with a more premium focus, emphasizing “Professional Grade” design cues that earned it the “Autoweek” Best of the Best Truck title for 2015 and a Ward’s 10 Best Interiors recognition.
Beyond shared features, the Canyon and Colorado also offer the same gasoline engine options: a standard four-cylinder producing 200 horsepower and achieving 27 mpg, and a 305-hp V6 capable of towing 7,000 lbs while still delivering up to 26 mpg. Like other contemporary GM vehicles, the Canyon also features 4G LTE connectivity and a mobile Wi-Fi hotspot.
Nissan Frontier
While the 2016 Nissan Frontier might be considered the elder statesman of the segment, its status as one of the few “true” trucks in the midsize category solidifies its position as one of the Best Midsized Pickups by default for some buyers. Despite its more traditional approach, Nissan has continued to update the Frontier, notably introducing NissanConnect with Navigation and Mobile Apps for the 2015 model year. The 2016 Frontier saw the return of custom-look models like the PRO-4X and Desert Runner, along with new exterior color options including Sunset Orange, Gun Metallic, and Magnetic Black. A moonroof also became standard on the Crew Cab SV trim. Looking ahead, the automotive world anticipated a next-generation Frontier for the 2017 model year, which was also expected to serve as the foundation for future Mercedes-Benz and Renault pickups, indicating the Frontier’s enduring relevance.
Hyundai Santa Cruz Concept
The Hyundai Santa Cruz concept generated significant buzz, previewing a potential “crossover truck” that debuted at the 2015 North American International Auto Show in Detroit. Reports at the time suggested that Hyundai was seriously considering production, with “Car and Driver” indicating potential approval by November of that year. If greenlit, the Santa Cruz would offer a distinctive alternative to traditional best midsized pickups, being a front-wheel-drive vehicle based on the Santa Fe crossover platform. Its concept form showcased a unique design unlike anything else in the truck market, combined with an open bed and an innovative tailgate that could extend the cargo bed to rival the size of midsize pickup beds.
