Many drivers are finding a midsize pickup a right mix of functionality and performance. Such trucks are simpler to move as compared to full-size models but can offer the power of moving trailers, boats, or equipment. Engineering gains over the past few years have extended their performance, offering buyers high towing capacity with everyday usability. If you desire a pickup truck that can tow without overwhelming you with size, these are the trucks you should become familiar with.

Understanding the Numbers

Prior to delving into individual trucks, there’s some towing jargon that needs explaining. Towing capacity is what weight the truck can lawfully and safely tow, provided that it’s equipped with the proper engine, axle ratio, and towing package. Payload capacity defines how much weight the truck itself can have in the bed and cabin, passengers and cargo included. The trailer brakes, the hitch capacity, and even the cooling systems are all factors for determining whether or not a truck reaches its top rating. In most cases, the top capacity requires specific configurations over the base model.

Best Midsize Trucks to Tow

1. Chevrolet Colorado / GMC Canyon

These corporate relatives are among the most powerful in the class. Fitted correctly with the high-output 2.7-liter turbocharged four-cylinder and the Advanced Trailering Package, they can pull up to 7,700 pounds. The package includes an integrated trailer brake controller and hitch guidance technology to make towing heavy loads simpler. Without the package, the capacity significantly declines, so the trim is crucial to get right.

2. Ford Ranger

The most recent Ranger still leaves an impression with the highest tow rating of 7,500 pounds. With its 2.3-liter turbocharged inline-four and lower trims, it achieves solid torque and the upper trims include the option of a 2.7-liter twin-turbo V6. Ford also has enhanced driver assistance and trailer swaying control that are good to have on highways or in rainy seasons.

3. Jeep Gladiator

The predominance of the off-road nature gifts Best the Gladiator with the capability of a tow machine. It achieves the equivalent of 7,650 pounds when using the Max Tow Package and 3.6-liter V6 with the 4.10 rear axe ratio. The package includes heavy-duty cooling system and stronger rear axle, both of which are requirements in terms of long distances. The capability of the Gladiator to blend trail capability and aggressive towing sets it apart.

4. Nissan Frontier

The Frontier uses a naturally aspirated 3.8-liter V6 that delivers solid power. Well-optioned, it can tow up to about 6,700 pounds. While not the segment leader, it provides an excellent option for those who need the V6 reliability without the hassle of complex turbocharging setups. Its simple design appeals to those who prefer simple mechanics.

5. Toyota Tacoma

A perennial bestseller in the midsize category, the Tacoma offers 6,500 to 6,800 pounds of towing when equipped with its higher-powered engines and tow package. Four-cylinder base models are much less so, so those who plan to tow will want to choose the V6 or the newer hybrids. The Tacoma is also known to hold up over the long haul, which gives heavy towing a boost of confidence.

6. Honda Ridgeline

In contrast to the others, the Ridgeline has a unibody platform like an SUV. Its greatest tow rating is 5000 pounds, and this is less compared to others here. That said, it excels in comfort and ride quality, and suits those owners who oftentimes only tow smaller trailers, yet use their truck in everyday family washing.

Selecting the Best Fit

The best midsize truck to tow with is your choice. The Chevrolet Cole, GMC Canyon, Ford Ranger or Jeep Gladiator are the best providing that you frequently need to move trailers that weigh more than 6,000 pounds. In this case, the Toyota Tacoma or the Honda Ridgeline can be more viable because they are less rough, both comfortable and easier to use in daily life. Other factors include the resale value and reliability; the Tacoma, in its case, still performs quite well both in the former and in the latter.