The 5 Best Small Pickup Trucks to Buy in 2023

Best Small Pickup Truck used

When searching for a compact or midsize pickup truck to purchase in 2023, top options include the Toyota Tacoma, Ford Ranger, Chevrolet Colorado, Honda Ridgeline and Nissan Frontier. These small trucks provide excellent capability, efficiency, and versatility for daily driving and weekend adventures. Key factors to compare are towing capacity, gas mileage, off-road performance, safety ratings, interior space and tech features. Reviews show these pickup trucks excel at balancing utility, comfort and value. For shoppers wanting a truck that’s easy to maneuver and park, the small truck segment offers great choices for both fleet and personal use.

1. Toyota Tacoma

The Toyota Tacoma has long been one of the most popular compact pickup trucks in America. With its reputation for reliability, off-road capability, and wide range of configurations, the Tacoma is a smart choice for many truck buyers.

Key features of the 2023 Toyota Tacoma:

  • Powerful engine options including a 2.7L 4-cylinder or 3.5L V6 engine
  • Available TRD Pro trim optimized for off-roading
  • Up to 6,800 lbs maximum towing capacity
  • Toyota Safety Sense bundle of active safety features

The Tacoma offers proven Toyota build quality and retains its value very well. For a midsize truck that can handle work duties and off-road adventures, the Tacoma is tough to beat.

Small Pickup Truck

2. Ford Ranger

The Ford Ranger makes a compelling case in the compact pickup segment with its modern design, responsible performance, and smart technology. The available turbocharged 2.3L EcoBoost engine provides a nice blend of power and fuel efficiency.

Key features of the 2023 Ford Ranger:

  • Standard 2.3L EcoBoost turbocharged engine
  • Ford Co-Pilot360 suite of advanced driver aids
  • Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capability
  • Up to 7,500 lbs max towing capacity in certain configurations

With its balance of utility and comfort, the Ford Ranger is an excellent choice as an everyday pickup truck for many drivers. It’s no surprise it has been a strong seller since making its return to the US market.

Small Pickup Truck

3. Chevrolet Colorado

The Chevy Colorado is a versatile compact pickup that offers impressive capability across different trims and configurations. From work truck to off-road machine, the Colorado can be tailored to meet specific needs.

Key features of the 2023 Chevy Colorado:

  • Available 2.5L 4-cylinder, 2.8L turbodiesel, or 3.6L V6 engines
  • Wide range of trim levels from base Work Truck to feature-packed ZR2
  • Up to 7,700 lbs max towing when properly equipped
  • Available safety features such as lane departure warning and forward collision alert

With traditional truck strengths and modern connectivity, the Colorado appeals to both fleet buyers and everyday drivers looking for a pickup with personality.

small pickup trucks

4. Honda Ridgeline

The Honda Ridgeline takes a different approach than traditional body-on-frame pickups, with its unibody construction and independent rear suspension delivering car-like comfort and handling. This makes it one of the most  enlightened compact pickups.

Key features of the 2023 Honda Ridgeline:

  • 250 hp V6 engine with intelligent variable torque management
  • In-bed trunk for added cargo utility
  • Available AWD with Intelligent Traction Management
  • Standard Honda Sensing suite of safety features

For buyers who want the versatility of a pickup along with excellent daily driving manners, the Ridgeline stands out as a compelling choice.

small pickup trucks

5. Nissan Frontier

The Nissan Frontier is a solid, value-focused compact pickup option. With its recent redesign, the Frontier now offers improved performance, technology, and comfort while maintaining its reputation for reliability and function.

Key features of the 2023 Nissan Frontier:

  • Standard 261 hp 3.8L V6 engine
  • Available advanced driver aids through Nissan Safety Shield 360
  • Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration
  • Up to 6,720 lbs max towing capacity

For shoppers looking for an affordable, no-frills pickup truck that still offers modern essentials, the Frontier is worth a look. Its combination of capability and value make it easy to see why it’s a popular choice.

small pickup trucks

Finding the Right Compact Pickup Truck

When shopping for a compact pickup, consider what you plan to use it for — commuting, hauling, towing — and how much off-road ability you need. Review key specs like horsepower, tech features, safety equipment, and payload capacity. Take test drives to get a feel for overall comfort and driving dynamics. With so many excellent compact trucks today like these top 5, you’re sure to find one that perfectly fits your needs.

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