2024 Guide: The Best Midsize Trucks
When it comes to off-roading, midsize trucks have become a popular choice for those seeking a balance of capability, durability, and affordability. In this article, we'll look at the top midsize trucks for off-roading in 2024, including the Toyota Tacoma, Ford Ranger, Nissan Frontier, Chevy Colorado, and Jeep Gladiator. Each truck has unique strengths and weaknesses, as well as advantages and disadvantages, which we'll explore in detail.
Toyota Tacoma
The Toyota Tacoma is a perennial best-seller in the midsize truck market, and for good reason. Its rugged four-wheel-drive system and high ground clearance and approach/departure angles make it ideal for off-roading enthusiasts. The Tacoma's TRD Pro trim offers a range of upgrades, including a locking rear differential, crawl control, and Bilstein shocks. However, its smaller engine and lack of advanced safety features may be drawbacks for some buyers.
Strengths:
Rugged 4-wheel-drive system
High ground clearance
Approach/departure angles
TRD Pro trim offers upgraded features
Weaknesses:
Ford Ranger
The Ford Ranger is a new entrant in the midsize truck market, but it's quickly made a name for itself with its impressive off-road capabilities. The Ranger's 2.3L EcoBoost engine provides plenty of power for towing and hauling, while its terrain management system allows drivers to adjust settings for different terrain types. The Ranger's available FX2 and FX4 packages offer additional off-road-oriented features, including a locking rear differential and skid plates.
Strengths:
Powerful 2.3L EcoBoost engine
Terrain management system
FX2 and FX4 packages offer additional off-road features
Weaknesses:
Nissan Frontier
The Nissan Frontier is another stalwart in the midsize truck market, known for its rugged reliability and off-road prowess. Its four-wheel-drive system is designed to handle challenging terrain, while its available PRO-4X trim offers upgraded features like a locking rear differential and Bilstein shocks. However, some buyers may find Frontier's interior materials to lack quality and comfort.
Strengths:
Weaknesses:
Chevy Colorado/GMC Canyon
The Chevy Colorado and its sister model, the GMC Canyon, are solid choices for off-roading enthusiasts. They come with an available Z71 trim offering a range of upgrades, including a locking rear differential and skid plates. The Canyon/Colorado's 4-wheel-drive system is designed to handle challenging terrain, while its high ground clearance provides ample clearance for navigating rough trails. However, some buyers may find the vehicle’s towing capacity limited compared to larger trucks.
Strengths:
Weaknesses:
Jeep Gladiator
The Jeep Gladiator is a unique entry in the midsize truck market, with its Wrangler-based design offering unparalleled off-road capabilities. The Gladiator's available Rubicon trim offers upgraded features like a locking rear differential and high-performance tires. At the same time, its high ground clearance and approach/departure angles provide ample clearance for navigating rough trails. However, some buyers may find the Gladiator's towing capacity limited compared to larger trucks.
Strengths:
Weaknesses:
Conclusion
In conclusion, each of these midsize trucks has unique strengths and weaknesses in off-roading. Whether you're looking for rugged reliability (Toyota Tacoma), impressive power (Ford Ranger), or unparalleled off-road capabilities (Jeep Gladiator), there's a midsize truck on this list that's sure to meet your needs. You can find the best midsize truck for your off-roading adventures in 2024 by considering your specific needs and preferences. As always, visit our stores for the best advice on your next build, and don’t forget to follow us on Instagram , Facebook , and YouTube .