Take a look at the new truck market and you’ll see there are lots of models that have space and power in abundance, but a price tag to match. Full-size trucks like the Chevy Silverado, Ram 1500, and Ford F-150 are great options, but they might not be the best car to choose if you need something more affordable that can haul cargo yet is relatively easy to park.
Thankfully, after small trucks faded away for a little while, consumers now have more choices than ever at the dealership. In addition to familiar midsize pickup trucks like the Ford Ranger, Nissan Frontier, and Honda Ridgeline, there are genuinely compact models such as the Ford Maverick and Hyundai Santa Cruz so there are options to suit a variety of needs and budgets.
Read on to check out our guide to the best small pickups you can buy.
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The Best Small Pickup Trucks of 2026
- 1. Toyota Tacoma
- 2. Ford Maverick
- 3. Hyundai Santa Cruz
- 4. Ford Ranger
- 5. Honda Ridgeline
- 6. Jeep Gladiator
- 7. Nissan Frontier
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1. Toyota Tacoma
CarGurus expert rating: 7.8 out of 10 CarGurus user rating: 4.4 out of 5 Percentage of Good and Great Deals available on CarGurus: 32.4% Overall CarGurus rating: 4.6 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Excellent reputation for reliability | Noisy cabin |
| Great off-road capability | Manual-adjust seats can be troublesome |
| Standard advanced driver-assistance tech | Interior skews functional even in the top trim |
The 2024 Toyota Tacoma marks the start of its fourth generation with a complete redesign, now sharing its platform with the larger Toyota Tundra. Offered in six trim levels—all powered by a 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine (up to 278 hp and 317 lb-ft of torque)—the Tacoma is more powerful and efficient than ever, with a hybrid version on the way. Toyota has reworked the cabin with a blockier look, improved materials, and a focus on function, including strategic MOLLE panels for accessories and increased rear-seat comfort thanks to the expanded Double Cab. The new XtraCab replaces the old Access Cab, prioritizing lockable cargo space behind the front seats.
For daily usability, the Tacoma offers a choice between a 5-foot or 6-foot bed, increased bed volume, and more versatile storage throughout the cabin. Technology is much improved, with a standard 8-inch or available 14-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and advanced driver-assistance features like lane-centering and proactive driving assist. Fuel economy also sees gains, with most trims achieving 20–23 mpg combined—competitive for the class. These updates, combined with Toyota’s strong reliability reputation and a host of standard safety tech, make the Tacoma one of the most well-rounded midsize trucks on the market.
The CarGurus Verdict: "Toyota has earned its reputation for longevity, and no doubt some of the audience for this new truck will be made up of early Tacoma drivers finally ready to upgrade. For many, the midsized Tacoma is the sweet spot." - Natalie Harrington
Read our most recent Toyota Tacoma review
2. Ford Maverick
CarGurus expert rating: 7.8 out of 10 CarGurus user rating: 4.4 out of 5 Percentage of Good and Great Deals available on CarGurus: 30.3% Overall CarGurus rating: 4.4 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Standard hybrid powertrain | Price has crept up |
| Charming and functional interior | Advanced safety features are not standard |
| Fun-to-drive Lobo model | Excessive touchscreen controls |
The 2025 Ford Maverick continues to shake up the compact truck segment by blending car-like comfort with real truck utility. For 2025, Ford introduces new features like an all-wheel-drive (AWD) hybrid and a performance-oriented Lobo trim, alongside a refreshed look with a more open grille and unique wheel options. The truck's platform, shared with the Escape and Bronco Sport, allows for clever space solutions—like multi-size door cubbies and a 4.5-foot bed that fits up to 18 sheets of 4x8 plywood with the tailgate angled as a tie-down. Inside, even the base XL trim feels fun and functional, with exposed screwheads and practical storage touches throughout the cabin.
When it comes to performance, the Maverick offers a standard hybrid powertrain (191 hp, 155 lb-ft of torque) with impressive EPA ratings of up to 38 mpg combined, or a punchier 2.0-liter turbo-four (238 hp, 275 lb-ft of torque) for those seeking more power. While towing maxes out at 4,000 pounds with the 4K Towing Package, that's still below some rivals like the Hyundai Santa Cruz. Tech upgrades for 2025 include a big 13.2-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, plus available trailer-assist features borrowed from Ford's larger trucks. However, advanced safety features aren't standard on all trims, and the base price is now much higher than when the Maverick first launched—a key consideration for budget-focused shoppers.
The CarGurus Verdict: "The Maverick is still a great vehicle, but it’s not quite the bargain it once was." - Stephen Edelstein
Read our most recent Ford Maverick review
3. Hyundai Santa Cruz
CarGurus expert rating: 8.2 out of 10 CarGurus user rating: 4.6 out of 5 Percentage of Good and Great Deals available on CarGurus: 30.0% Overall CarGurus rating: 4.4 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Fun to drive | On-pavement handling with all-terrain tires |
| Impressive technology | Cramped back seat |
| Great warranty | Not much cargo space |
The 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz stands out as a compact sport truck that excels at everyday practicality and weekend adventures, rather than heavy-duty hauling or serious off-roading. Built on the Hyundai Tucson platform, the Santa Cruz is ideal for light-duty tasks like hauling home improvement supplies, tackling DIY projects, or carrying outdoor gear. For 2025, it receives fresh styling, modernized tech, and off-road enhancements—especially in the XRT trim, which comes with a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine delivering a robust 281 hp and 311 lb-ft of torque. Inside, you’ll find a new high-tech dashboard featuring two 12.3-inch digital displays, refined interior materials, and clever storage solutions—including a practical shelf for the front passenger and a locking in-bed trunk.
Daily driving is a breeze thanks to its compact size, comfortable ride, and user-friendly infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. While rear seat space is tight and the cargo bed isn’t the largest in its class, features like a retractable tonneau cover and adjustable tie-downs add real-world versatility. Hyundai equips every Santa Cruz with a suite of advanced safety and driver-assistance features, and Bluelink+ connected services are free to the original owner for life. The Santa Cruz may not be the cheapest or roomiest option among small trucks, but its fun-to-drive character, standout tech, and warranty coverage make it a smart pick for buyers who value comfort and innovation over brute strength.
The CarGurus Verdict: "Zippy, enjoyable to drive, and equipped with tech you can’t find in rivals, it’s a good little sport truck if that’s what you seek." - Christian Wardlaw
Read our most recent Hyundai Santa Cruz review
4. Ford Ranger
CarGurus expert rating: 7.2 out of 10 CarGurus user rating: 4.2 out of 5 Percentage of Good and Great Deals available on CarGurus: 32.7% Overall CarGurus rating: 4.3 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Multiple powertrain options | Interior materials feel cheap |
| Great handling | Sluggish touchscreen response |
| Quiet cabin | Advanced safety features are not standard |
The 2024 Ford Ranger returns with a complete redesign, delivering more choices than ever for midsize truck shoppers. This year, the Ranger lineup gains multiple new engines, including a robust 2.7-liter twin-turbo V6 with 315 hp and 400 lb-ft of torque for serious towing, as well as the high-octane Ranger Raptor with up to 405 hp and 430 lb-ft (or even 455 hp and 536 lb-ft with an optional tune). Every Ranger is now a four-door crew cab with a five-foot bed, providing more space and comfort for both passengers and cargo. Interior upgrades include a roomier rear seat that folds flat for extra storage flexibility, and handy features like large door pockets, a wireless charging pad, and a damped tailgate for easier loading.
On the tech and safety front, the Ranger impresses with a standard 10-inch touchscreen (12-inch on upper trims), smartphone integration, and available features like a 360-degree camera and Bang & Olufsen sound. Higher trims add advanced driver assists, though the base XL skips most safety tech. The ride is quiet and composed, with thoughtful details like side bumper steps and Ford’s Zone Lighting for working after dark. However, shoppers should know that interior material quality still trails some rivals, and the most advanced features require stepping up to pricier trims.
The CarGurus Verdict: "With new V6 engines and a Raptor trim, the 2024 Ford Ranger offers greater choice and capability to finally match the Chevrolet Colorado, GMC Canyon, Nissan Frontier, and Toyota Tacoma." - Clifford Atiyeh
Read our most recent Ford Ranger review
5. Honda Ridgeline
CarGurus expert rating: 7.8 out of 10 CarGurus user rating: 4.6 out of 5 Percentage of Good and Great Deals available on CarGurus: 29.1% Overall CarGurus rating: 4.3 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Comfortable | Limiting towing capacity for a midsize pickup |
| Great handling | Outdated technology |
| Standard all-wheel drive |
The 2025 Honda Ridgeline stands apart in the midsize truck segment thanks to its car-like unibody construction and clever, practical features. Unlike most rivals that use a traditional body-on-frame setup, the Ridgeline’s platform is shared with Honda’s crossovers, giving it a smoother ride and more refined handling. Under the hood, every Ridgeline comes with a 3.5-liter V6 making 280 hp and 262 lb-ft of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic and standard all-wheel drive. The cabin is thoughtfully designed for durability and usefulness, with features like tri-zone automatic climate control and a rugged layout that’s easy to keep clean.
When it comes to everyday usability, the Ridgeline shines. The only available configuration is a roomy four-door crew cab with a 5-foot, 4-inch bed—practical for families and work alike. The dual-action tailgate and a huge, lockable 7.3-cubic-foot in-bed trunk (complete with drain plug) make loading, hauling, and tailgating a breeze. While towing capacity tops out at 5,000 pounds—less than some rivals—the Ridgeline compensates with ample payload, smart storage, and a suite of standard safety features. Tech is straightforward, with a 9-inch touchscreen and wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, even if the interface feels dated compared to competitors. Fuel economy is a solid 21 mpg combined for most trims, and Honda’s reputation for reliability and value remains intact.
The CarGurus Verdict: "It doesn’t offer the towing capacity or off-road capability of more traditional trucks, but the Ridgeline is much easier to live with." - Stephen Edelstein
Read our most recent Honda Ridgeline review
6. Jeep Gladiator
CarGurus expert rating: 5.3 out of 10 CarGurus user rating: 4.7 out of 5 Percentage of Good and Great Deals available on CarGurus: 34.9% Overall CarGurus rating: 4.2 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Top and doors come off | Poor fuel economy |
| Fun to drive | Uncompetitive towing/payload capacity |
| Impressive off-road | Advanced safety features are not standard |
The 2025 Jeep Gladiator stands out in the midsize truck world by blending classic Jeep off-road capability with the open-air fun of removable roof panels and doors—a rare combination among pickups. While the base Sport trim can tow up to 7,700 pounds and haul 1,725 pounds of payload, those numbers drop as you move up the lineup and add off-road features or luxury touches. The only engine option is a tried-and-true 3.6-liter Pentastar V6, putting out 285 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque through an eight-speed automatic transmission. Four-wheel drive is standard, and the Gladiator’s unique five-link rear suspension helps it live up to its truck credentials, even if its proportions can look a bit unconventional.
Inside, the Gladiator delivers decent front legroom and comfort, especially with power-adjustable seats on higher trims like the Mojave X. Rear seat space is typical for the class—tight for adults but workable for shorter trips. The latest Uconnect 5 system features a large 12.3-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, though voice recognition can struggle in the Gladiator’s noisy cabin. Safety tech is hit or miss: some essentials like adaptive cruise control and forward collision warning are only standard on higher trims, and the Gladiator’s crash test ratings are mixed. If you want a pickup that lets you drop the top, hit the trails, and enjoy a truly different driving experience, the Gladiator is in a class of its own—just know there are other trucks that tow and haul more for the money.
The CarGurus Verdict: "Unique among pickup trucks, the Jeep Gladiator is an appealing alternative to the status quo. That’s especially true if you value open-air driving or you plan to tackle untrodden territory. But for serious towing and hauling tasks, there are better choices than the Gladiator." - Christian Wardlaw
Read our most recent Jeep Gladiator review
7. Nissan Frontier
CarGurus expert rating: 6 out of 10 CarGurus user rating: 4.4 out of 5 Percentage of Good and Great Deals available on CarGurus: 28.2% Overall CarGurus rating: 4.1 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Powerful V6 engine | Low payload rating |
| Comfortable driver’s seat | Cramped back seat |
| Impressive Fender stereo | Outdated technology |
The Nissan Frontier occupies a refreshingly straightforward niche in the midsize pickup segment: no turbocharged four-cylinder, no hybrid system, no gimmicks—just a stout 3.8-liter V6 producing 310 hp and 281 lb-ft of torque, mated to a nine-speed automatic and geared for real-world pulling power right off the line. That engine is the Frontier's biggest differentiator, delivering a refined, confident driving experience that feels more capable than the numbers suggest, and it backs it up with a 7,150-pound tow rating that bests the Toyota Tacoma's maximum by 650 pounds. The Pro-4X trim is a particularly compelling off-road package, adding standard 4WD, Bilstein shocks, an electronic locking rear differential, all-terrain tires, front and underbody skid plates, and a new Terrain mode selector for 2026—everything a serious off-road enthusiast needs without having to option-build from scratch. Pricing starts at $33,845 including destination, making it one of the most affordable entries in the segment, and the interior's traditional control layout—large knobs, sizable buttons, clearly marked switchgear—is genuinely well-suited to gloved hands and muddy job sites alike.
On the road, the Frontier exudes a sense of solidity and indestructibility that's increasingly rare in a segment trending toward car-like refinement. Freeway cruising is impressively quiet, fuel economy of around 18–21 mpg combined is competitive for a V6, and the driver's seat proved comfortable over multi-hour stints. The Pro-4X now comes standard with heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and remote engine start—welcome upgrades for cold-weather buyers—and an available 10-speaker Fender audio system is a genuine highlight. The trade-offs are real: the back seat is cramped and lacks rear climate vents, the ride over rough pavement is firmly old-school, and the native voice assistant is best ignored in favor of wireless Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. A three-star NHTSA frontal crash rating is also worth noting for safety-conscious shoppers. But for buyers who want a no-nonsense, V6-powered midsize truck with legitimate off-road chops, the Frontier makes a compelling and underrated case.
The CarGurus Verdict: "We like the 2026 Nissan Frontier despite its old-school nature. It feels solid, it's simple, it exudes quality, and it's reasonably fuel efficient. Plus, it can tow more than a Toyota Tacoma. An obtuse digital assistant and a concerning crash-test rating are primary reasons to consider alternatives." - Christian Wardlaw
Read our most recent Nissan Frontier review
The Best Small Pickup Trucks of 2026: FAQs
What is the most fuel-efficient small pickup truck?
The Ford Maverick with its standard hybrid powertrain is the most fuel-efficient small pickup, offering an EPA-estimated 37 mpg combined.
Which small truck is best for off-roading?
The Jeep Gladiator is arguably the most capable off-roader straight from the factory, with features like locking differentials and an electronic sway-bar disconnect. The Toyota Tacoma, particularly in TRD Pro and the new Trailhunter trims, and the Ford Ranger Raptor are also exceptionally capable off-road.
What's the difference between a unibody and a body-on-frame truck?
Unibody trucks, like the Ford Maverick, Hyundai Santa Cruz, and Honda Ridgeline, have their body and frame built as a single piece, similar to a crossover. This generally results in a more comfortable ride and better handling. Body-on-frame trucks, such as the Toyota Tacoma, Ford Ranger, and Jeep Gladiator, have a separate frame and body, which is more traditional for trucks and typically allows for higher towing capacities and more rugged off-road capability.
Which small trucks offer a hybrid powertrain?
For 2025, both the Ford Maverick and Toyota Tacoma offer hybrid powertrain options. The Maverick comes standard with a hybrid system, while the Tacoma offers the powerful i-FORCE MAX hybrid on several trims. Jeep has also announced that a Gladiator 4xe plug-in hybrid will be added during the 2025 calendar year.
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