Toyota Tacoma’s Competitors: 7 Best Small Pickup Trucks in 2021
Toyota Tacoma is a leading small pickup truck with off-road trims and the towing/hauling strength most shoppers need. The small-truck segment prioritizes usability—strong horsepower, good fuel economy, and practical cargo space—without the bulk of larger full-size trucks. Here’s a quick roundup of the best midsize pickups from great to good.
Toyota Tacoma
The most well-rounded small pickup combines durability for hard work and towing with a refined, tech-forward interior.
Easy to maneuver around town and more efficient than bigger trucks
Standard driver-safety and infotainment features (learn more)
Seats five; popular TRD Off-Road Double Cab 5' Bed V6 4WD Automatic
Pros: Strong hauling/towing in compact size; abundant standard safety/tech; TRD Pro off-road capability.
Cons: Tight rear seat in extended cab; base engine is modest; upper trims can get pricey.
Click here to get the best price on a used Toyota Tacoma.
Ford Ranger
Durable and strong in a small, affordable package.
Available driver-safety systems; great for light-duty owners
270-hp turbocharged 2.3L inline-four; 10-speed automatic
2WD models deliver excellent fuel economy for the segment
Pros: Impressive 7,500-lb towing for its size.
Cons: Cabin design trails rivals; top Lariat could offer more tech.
Read more about Ford Ranger vs. Tacoma.
GMC Canyon
Comfort, strength, and style with work-ready capability.
Pros: Excellent towing/hauling; comfortable, spacious interior; user-friendly tech; strong diesel torque.
Cons: Some rivals have more refined interiors; Denali trim isn’t as luxe as larger trucks.
Learn more at Car and Driver
Chevy Colorado
From work-truck spec to serious off-road, with near full-size capability in a midsize package.
Modern, good-looking infotainment system
Many body/equipment combinations; ZR2 brings impressive off-road tech
Pros: Spacious, comfortable cabin; strong and efficient engine options; wide configuration choice.
Cons: Rivals offer more standard driver assists; upper trims can miss some high-end features.
Learn more at Car and Driver
Jeep Gladiator
Wrangler looks and rugged chops with pickup practicality.
Standard 4WD; available locking diffs; luxury interior on higher trims
3.6L V6 (manual standard) or 260-hp diesel with 442 lb-ft torque
Max 7,760-lb towing and ~1,700-lb payload
Pros: Best-in-class off-road ability; strong towing/hauling; roomy seating.
Cons: Fewer optional driver aids; on-road handling lags some rivals; pricey top trims.
Read more about Gladiator vs. Tacoma.
Honda Ridgeline
Everyday-use midsize truck with car-like comfort.
Shares unibody chassis with Odyssey, Passport, and Pilot
Standard AWD; 280-hp V6 with 9-speed automatic; tows up to 5,000 lbs
Class-leading rear cargo space; a Car and Driver “10Best” winner
Pros: Car-like ride/handling; standard safety tech; clever cabin/bed features.
Cons: Not as off-road capable; lower tow rating than some; upper trims can get expensive.
Read more about Ridgeline vs. Tacoma • Ridgeline at Car and Driver
Hyundai Santa Cruz
A versatile, comfortable 5-seater adventure truck.
Pros: Excellent cabin comfort/refinement; included driver-safety tech; multipurpose bed and storage; available AWD.
Cons: Lower tow rating; no dedicated 4WD system; polarizing styling.
Tacoma remains a favorite for off-roaders of all levels thanks to its rugged design, proven powertrains—including stick-shift availability—and class-leading standard driver-assist features.
As the leading Used Toyota Tacoma Dealership in Long Beach, Car Plus Finance offers many model years of Toyota Tacoma. If you choose a used Toyota Tacoma—or any other used car—do not hesitate to Contact Us.
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