If you’re searching for an easy to operate and fuel efficient pickup, look no further than the 2023 Honda Ridgeline. Its unibody design and agile handling redefine what driving a truck means.
It also boasts numerous special bed features, such as a lockable trunk and dual-action tailgate.
Chevrolet Colorado
Eight years ago, Chevy’s Colorado was introduced as a breath of fresh air into a stagnant small truck segment. Today, with its 7700-pound maximum towing capacity and stylish new look, it remains one of the best pickups available to drivers who seek both adventure and hauling capacity.
The 2023 model features an updated, powerful, and versatile drivetrain in five trim packages with three distinct power output versions of its 2.7-liter turbo engine. Work Truck and LT models boast 237 horsepower and 259 pound-feet of torque; Trail Boss and ZR2 variants increase this to 310 horsepower and 430 pound-feet of torque respectively.
No matter which package they select, the Colorado offers plenty of features tailored for modern drivers like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, Wi-Fi hotspot capability and an advanced infotainment system. Furthermore, its crash tests show excellent results; earning it an outstanding 5-star rating from experts.
Honda Ridgeline
Honda’s Ridgeline is one of the only small trucks to feature AWD as standard, unlike F-150 which uses four wheel drive. Honda’s AWD system continuously directs power towards wheels it thinks need it most, making this an excellent feature in bad weather and basic off-roading situations.
The Ridgeline feels more like a crossover SUV with truck bed than traditional body-on-frame competitors, and excels at driving comfort. Its coil-sprung independent rear suspension and meaty tires create a carlike ride quality over uneven terrain.
The Ridgeline provides a quiet and spacious cabin for five, with an surprisingly generous cargo area of 36.7 cubic feet. Powered by its 280hp V-6 engine paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive; safety features include forward collision warning, lane departure warnings, adaptive cruise control and forward collision prevention technology.
Toyota Tacoma
Toyota’s Tacoma small trucks are among the most beloved in America. Offering manageable size that’s easy to maneuver on tight trails and unparalleled off-road capability, their reliability ensures strong resale values when sold secondhand.
The Tacoma’s high ground clearance makes it possible to traverse rough terrain without bottoming out on rocks and other obstacles, saving costly repairs in the future.
Tacoma V6 models feature an adjustable 10-way driver’s seat to provide long-term comfort. Additionally, this seat helps reduce highway wind noise; however competitors such as Colorado and Ridgeline provide smoother rides. You can further increase its capability with Multi-Terrain Select and Crawl Control capabilities that let its robust suspension tackle tough conditions with ease.
Ford Maverick
Ford Maverick is currently the only truck on the market offering a standard hybrid powertrain, employing an Atkinson cycle four-cylinder aided by an electric motor to produce 191 horsepower that powers its front wheels via a continuously variable transmission.
The Maverick is designed for city dwellers looking for a small pickup vehicle. With a 40-foot curb-to-curb turning radius and ample cargo capacity in its 4.5-foot FLEXBED cargo box, this pickup is sure to meet everyone’s needs.
It also comes equipped with two 400W 110V outlets and an 8.0″ infotainment touchscreen featuring Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration, capable of seating four passengers comfortably; although its compact size limits rear legroom to 35″.
Hyundai Santa Cruz
Hyundai’s 2022 Santa Cruz stands out in the compact pickup segment as an unconventional unibody truck with utility bed. Targeted towards customers looking for cargo-carrying capability but without high step-in height, jiggly ride, or subpar fuel economy from traditional trucks, its design appeals to buyers seeking open cargo capacity without high step-in height, high step-in height or poor fuel economy associated with traditional pickups.
Hyundai’s Santa Cruz sedan stands out from its competition thanks to its sleek modern styling and an array of tech features, making it a tempting option for city driving or weekend excursions into mountains or beaches. Hyundai’s advanced HTRAC AWD system also gives drivers access to different drive modes to customize it according to task at hand.
The Santa Cruz is capable of towing up to 5,000 pounds with its standard turbo engine. However, for maximum performance you will require the upgraded Turbo Package as well as Trailer Prep Package plus trailer brakes.