18 Light Trucks That Lift More Than Expected — Small but Strong

The demand for compact and mid-size trucks is booming. These vehicles allow people to enjoy numerous benefits and features without taking up the responsibility of a full-size pickup truck. Their durable nature and off-road features that allow them to conquer any terrain have brought them under the spotlight. They showcase immense power and offer an incredible towing capability, blending functionality and comfort. Here are 18 light trucks that lift more than expected.

Ford Ranger

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The Ford Ranger is a true workhorse that debuted as a light and compact pickup truck in 1982. It is one of the best in its class, with a towing capacity of around 7,500 lbs and a payload of 1,860 lbs. Off-road features such as the Terrain Management System make it capable on all rugged and uneven surfaces. A 2.3L EcoBoost engine powers it and delivers around 270 horsepower.

Toyota Tacoma

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A durable and reliable truck, the Toyota Tacoma is a small but strong and efficient vehicle. It is powered by a 3.5L V6 engine, producing around 278 horsepower and having a towing capacity of 6800 lbs. It is a favorite off-road vehicle, thanks to its Multi-Terrain Select and Crawl Control system that ensures stability and traction. From its innovative storage system to various bed options, the Tacoma is a standout pick.

Chevrolet Colorado

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The Chevrolet Colorado has a record of lifting more than expected. It is a reliable vehicle that is fit for off-road ventures. Despite its relatively small size, its 2.8L Duramax turbo-diesel engine paves the way for a towing capacity of 7700 lbs. A more extreme variant of this vehicle, the ZRU, might be a better pick for fierce adventures, but the Colorado is loved by businesses and farmers.

Nissan Frontier

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A popular nameplate that has earned the reparation of a capable and reliable workhorse, the Nissan Frontier can lift more than expected. It has a towing capacity of 6720, making it one of the best in the mid-size pickup segment. Moreover, its l 3.8L V6 engine produces around 310 horsepower, emerging as the highest in its class. This highly appealing vehicle has a comfortable interior and an 8-inch digital display.

Honda Ridgeline

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The Honda Ridgeline is the ideal pickup truck, offering immense utility and functionality despite its small size. It was first produced in 2006 and remains a popular mid-size pickup truck. It is powered by a 3.5L V6 engine that provides enough power to tow around 5000 lbs. Features such as the dual-action tailgate and innovative in-bed trunk enhance storage and make it very convenient.

Jeep Gladiator

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The Jeep Gladiator’s unmatched performance and legendary status make it a great off-road vehicle. Its powerful 3.6L V6 engine produces around 285 horsepower and has a towing capability of 7650 lbs. Not only does it have the best towing capacity in its class, but it also showcases exceptional features. These include the removable roof and doors, a 4×4 system for enhanced traction, and rock crawling mode.

GMC Canyon

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The GMC Canyon is an incredible blend of durability and efficiency. It is a light truck that lifts more than expected. The 2.5L four-cylinder engine gives it immense power to tow and accelerate smoothly. It has a towing capability of 7000 lbs. The Duramax version has a diesel engine that delivers a similar performance. This is a compelling option with an upscale interior with leather upholstery and heated steering.

Ford Maverick

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The Ford Maverick is an excellent light compact hybrid truck produced in 1970. Its hybrid nature provides useful features such as regenerative braking and enhanced fuel economy. It is powered by a 2.0L EcoBoost engine that allows it a towing capacity of 4000 lbs. It is a small but strong vehicle, and the storage options, such as the Flex Bed system, make it ideal for urban businesses.

Ram 1500 Classic

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The Ram 1500 Classic has a strong build and is renowned for its exceptional power and value. Its towing capacity is 7660 lbs, lifting more than expected. The suspension and engine can be upgraded for enhanced performance depending on the various configurations. Features such as the RamBox storage system provide a lot of bed storage, making loading and unloading things easier.

Chevrolet Silverado 1500

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The Chevrolet Silverado is a practical choice and one of the best trucks in over twenty years. It has come a long way since its humble origins. Its  2.7L turbo engine produces around 310 horsepower. One of its most notable features is the Super Cruise driver assistant technology, which assists the vehicle’s off-road adventures, and the multi-flex tailgate. Its advanced trailing technology also makes towing easier, with 15 camera views to avoid crashes.

Hyundai Santa Cruz

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The Hyundai Santa Cruz is a versatile light pickup truck with hidden storage compartments. This innovative bed truck features weatherproof storage compartments and a lockable tonneau cover for maximum security. It is powered by a 2.5L turbocharged engine that produces around 281 horsepower and has a total towing capacity of 5000 lbs. Its blend of cutting-edge technology and comfort makes it an attractive option.

Isuzu D-Max

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The Isuzu D-Max is designed to withstand some of the roughest terrains. It is a vehicle built for adventure. It is small but lifts more than expected. Equipped with a 1.9L turbo-diesel engine, it has a total towing capacity of 7716 lbs. With a standard four-wheel drive and reinforced chassis, the truck pushes its limits in terms of durability. The D Max is a go-to option with plenty of space for passengers and a vast bed size.

Mitsubishi L200

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The Mitsubishi L200 is ideal for anyone seeking a blend of durability and extreme adventures. It is powered by a 2.4-liter turbocharged diesel engine with a towing capacity of 7700 lbs. The vehicle’s Super Select 4WD-II system and its advanced driver assistance system provide a smooth and engaging experience. Since changing various modes is not an issue, it is widely used for commercial work in the urban and outskirts.

GMC Sierra 1500

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The GMC Sierra 1500 seamlessly blends performance and cutting-edge technology, presenting a deadly truck. It has a towing capacity of 9500 lbs and is the most sought-after vehicle for rough jobs. With powerful V8 engine options, this vehicle’s Multipro Tailgate provides the utmost loading convenience. Moreover, the Carbon Bed Pro is highly durable, protecting the items on the bed and resisting scratches.

Volkswagen Amarok

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Its comfort and practical features mark a high-end mid-size pickup truck, the Volkswagen Amarok. These include 4Motion all-wheel drive for traction paired with a 3.0-liter V6 TDI engine for immense power. It is an incredible off-road vehicle that can navigate harsh terrains, and its Hill Assist and emergency autonomous braking pave the way for a smooth ride. The Amarok can lift more than expected with a towing capacity of 7716 lbs.

SsangYong Musso

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The SsangYong Musso is a reliable Korean mid-size pickup truck that has been around since 1993. It has conquered the most extreme terrains. Its 2.2L diesel engine produces around 202 horsepower and has a towing capacity of 7700 lbs. It has a relatively longer bed than others, and it stands out with its anti-lock and electronic braking distribution.

Fiat Fullback

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The Fiat Fullback is powered by a 2.4L diesel engine. It is a small, strong, mid-size pickup truck that can lift more than expected. It has a towing capacity of 6945 lbs and is a great option for people who do not want to manage a full-size truck. It has a four-wheel drive system paired with a 6-speed manual transmission and provides a stable driving experience.

Mazda BT-50

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The Mazda BT-50 is a mid-size pickup truck that has been in production since 2006. It is a workhorse that never quits, equipped with a 3.2L turbo-diesel that generates nearly 200 horsepower. It features a four-wheel drive system, stability on harsh terrains, and an advanced safety suite. With a towing capacity of 7716 lbs, this small yet powerful vehicle is a trusted choice for commercial purposes.

12 Cars That Are Known for Their Unbreakable Reliability — They Just Don’t Quit

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Reliability is a core feature that defines a vehicle. Over the last few decades, some vehicles have emerged as a reliable and durable option, standing out as workhorses that never quit. These vehicles not only prove themselves in terms of performance but transcend their role and become reliable partners, always fulfilling their role. Here are 12 Cars known for their unbreakable reliability.

12 Cars That Are Known for Their Unbreakable Reliability — They Just Don’t Quit

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