Pickup trucks have been a part of the American automotive landscape for generations, and modern models offer a wide range of sizes and capabilities. But when it comes to choosing the smallest pickup truck you can buy, you’ll have to narrow your search down to a few specific models.
Chevrolet Colorado – The Chevrolet Colorado is one of the most popular midsize pickups on the market, and its size makes it ideal for those looking for a smaller ride. The Colorado offers two engine options: a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with 200 horsepower and 191 lb-ft of torque, or an available 3.6-liter V6 with 308 horsepower and 275 lb-ft of torque. Both engines come paired with either a six-speed manual or eight-speed automatic transmission. Maximum payload capacity is 1,590 pounds, while maximum towing capacity is 7,000 pounds when properly equipped.
Toyota Tacoma – The Toyota Tacoma is one of the most iconic compact pickups in existence and has been around since 1995. It’s available in three cab styles: regular cab, extended cab (Access Cab) and crew cab (Double Cab).
There are also two bed lengths available: a 5-foot bed or 6-foot bed option. Under the hood is either a 159 horsepower 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine or 278 horsepower 3.5L V6 engine paired with either a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission depending on trim level selected. The Tacoma boasts up to 6800 lbs maximum tow capacity when properly equipped with 4WD, while payload capacity maxes out at 1,175 lbs regardless of configuration chosen.
Nissan Frontier -The Nissan Frontier has been around since 1997 as one of the oldest compact pickup trucks on the market today and is still going strong today thanks to updates made over its long lifespan. Like the Tacoma, it’s offered in both regular cab and extended cab body styles as well as two bed lengths: 5 foot or 6 foot beds depending on trim level chosen. Underneath its hood is either a 152 horsepower 2.5L four cylinder engine or 261 horsepower 4L V6 engine mated to either six speed manual transmission or five speed automatic transmission depending on trim level chosen . Maximum payload capacity for the Frontier is 1120 lbs while maximum tow rating tops out at 6500 lbs when properly equipped with 4WD.
Conclusion: When shopping for the smallest pickup truck available, your choices are limited but you still have some great options such as the Chevrolet Colorado, Toyota Tacoma and Nissan Frontier that offer everything from powerful engines to impressive payload capacities and maximum tow ratings when properly equipped!
