The Best Midsize Pickups in 2025
Looking at all the midsize pickups on the market, the team at The Car Guide has identified the three models that represent the best buys for 2025.
There have been multiple redesigns and updates in this segment in recent years. As a result, our top 3 has largely changed, even compared to 2024.
- Also: Civic Hybrid, Ranger, ID. Buzz Win 2025 NACTOY Awards
- Also: The Most Expensive Toyota Tacoma Hybrid Will Cost You Over $86,000
1. Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon
GM’s Chevrolet Colorado/GMC Canyon duo have moved up from the third step of our podium all the way to the top this year. The bowtie brand is more accessible and focused on work, while GMC emphasizes luxury.
Similar to nearly every competitor, the Colorado and Canyon offer just one configuration—crew cab with a 5.5-foot cargo bed. But that doesn't stop them from featuring a spacious interior, even for rear-seat passengers. On the practical side, maximum towing capacity is a class-leading 7,700 lbs. Payload is 1,490 lbs (Colorado) or 1,590 lbs (Canyon).
Three output levels were initially available with the turbocharged 2.7-litre four-cylinder engine, but in order to simplify things for customers, only the top one (TurboMax) now remains, producing 310 hp and 430 lb-ft of torque. It's a joy to operate, although fuel consumption is high.
Whether in the city or on the highway, these trucks shine with a refined driving experience. Precise steering and confident braking performance are among the elements that make them easy to appreciate. And if you're looking for solid off-road capability, the Colorado ZR2 and Canyon AT4X do a terrific job, too.
2. Toyota Tacoma
The latest Tacoma represents a major evolution from the previous generation, and Toyota has simultaneously seized the opportunity to increase the number of top-of-the-range models, including a Tacoma Trailhunter selling for over $85,000.
The cabin is much more attractive than in the past, and more importantly better laid out. The seats are comfortable, ergonomics are impeccable and the available features are plentiful. However, you'll likely be disappointed by the lack of legroom in the rear.
In Canada, Toyota has chosen to offer a lineup where the least expensive models have a 6-foot bed. Unfortunately, this means that to get a 5-foot bed, you have to opt for the TRD Sport and its six-speed manual gearbox, or fork out $61,000 for a TRD Off-Road Premium with automatic transmission. The other option, of course, is to select the rather expensive hybrid powertrain.
Also worth mentioning is the formidable TRD Pro model, equipped with a Fox suspension that's equally at home on the road and in extreme situations, and the i-Force Max hybrid powertrain, which boasts 465 lb-ft of torque. The turbocharged four-cylinder that comes as standard is certainly more pleasant than the old V6, but its fuel consumption disappoints.
3. Ford Ranger
The 2025 North American Truck of the Year completes our top three. Ford's truck-building expertise is evident here. The comfortable Ranger is equipped with nicely padded seats, and the suspension effectively mitigates road imperfections. Steering is precise, giving the impression of driving a smaller vehicle. Added to this are a host of features, including a responsive and cutting-edge multimedia system.
Under the hood, the turbocharged 2.3-litre four-cylinder engine delivers interesting performance. For those who want more power, we recommend the 2.7-litre EcoBoost V6, especially since the extra cost is reasonable.
Finally, if you can afford it, the Ranger Raptor is a thrilling machine with a feisty twin-turbo V6. This one will tackle major obstacles without any real difficulty but is particularly at ease at high speeds.
For more information and ratings, don’t miss our Best Buys section.
