Other trucks
Toyota Tacoma
MSRP: $26,595 The Tacoma is like a punk-rock band — an edgy alternative to more sophisticated, grown-up mid-size rivals. Its iconic off-road cred is demonstrated by definitive trailready trims and packages featuring rugged equipment and impressive capability. The Tacoma has typical pickup-truck versatility with multiple powertrains and body configurations. It also boasts the most standard driver-assistance features in the class, including automated emergency braking and adaptive cruise control.
Chevrolet Colorado
MSRP: $21,495 Call it the Swiss Army Truck: The Colorado can do everything from off-road exploring and hefty towing to running school carpools. Highly configurable and aptly skilled, it offers a trim for every occasion as well as the rugged-and-ready ZR2. It can tow a classleading 7700 pounds with the optional diesel four-cylinder engine — as can its corporate cousin, the GMC Canyon. The Colorado has two cab and cargo-bed styles that pair with several powertrain choices.
GMC Canyon
MSRP: $22,095 The mid-size Canyon is essentially a downsized GMC Sierra, with strikingly similar style and ample ability. It’s quick with the V-6, and the optional diesel four-cylinder boasts a brawny towing capacity. On the highway, the Canyon is stable and relaxed; in town, it requires less of the driver’s attention in traffic than would a less agile full-size truck. Looking for luxe? Check out the Denali, which dresses up the Canyon with chrome cladding, bigger wheels, and better interior materials.
Nissan Frontier
MSRP: $20,035 In spite of being virtually unchanged for more than a decade, the Frontier continues to sell well. Meanwhile, its mid-size pickup competitors have benefited from improvements during their lifespans — or they're all new. While the Nissan has a primitive cabin and tired styling, its cheap-yet-durable interior and configurable cargo box do have a certain appeal for those seeking the utmost in practicality. Likewise, the Frontier offers a comfortable ride and competent towing at an affordable price.