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Although midsize trucks are not as popular as half-ton pickups, they do still make up a significant portion of new cars sold. And if you are after a smaller truck, you might want something that can tow. Whether you be towing your boat to the lake or trailering a camper, it’s nice to know that you have the proper way to do so. So what midsize truck can tow the most in 2023?

Which small truck tows the most?

When it comes to smaller trucks, there are actually three different models that offer the same maximum towing capacities. With a maximum towing capacity of 7,700 pounds, the Jeep Gladiator, Chevy Colorado, and GMC Canyon tie for the best midsize truck for towing. 

In order to get that 7,700-lb towing capacity, you will have to opt for certain configurations. But as it stands, these three midsize pickups can tow the most in their segment. 

3. 2023 Jeep Gladiator

Since its introduction, the Jeep Gladiator has been Jeep’s take on a pickup truck. It’s actually the only new midsize truck that you can get with a diesel engine. But the diesel V6 will not get you the maximum towing capacity. 

The 2023 Jeep Gladiator is towing a boat.
Jeep Gladiator Diesel | Jeep

For that, you will need to go with the 3.6-liter V6 engine. It makes 285 horsepower and 260 pound-foot of torque. Those who want a midsize truck with a manual might feel a little let down in terms of towing. With the six-speed standard, the 2023 Gladiator can only tow 4,500 lbs. 

2. 2023 Chevy Colorado

For 2023, the Chevy Colorado finally appears to be getting the love it deserves. Sure, its engine options have been cut back, but it looks and feels like a modern pickup. Instead of offering a V6, each Colorado comes equipped with a 2.7-liter inline-four engine. There are various potencies available, with the most powerful making 310 hp. 

A 2023 Chevy Colorado Trail Boss drives off-road.
2023 Chevy Colorado | Chevy

According to Car and Driver, through the Trail Boss and Z71 trims, you can unlock the towing capacity of 7,700 lbs. That is a bit of a bummer because those cost significantly more than the base model. But Chevy has limited the more potent engine configuration to the higher trims. 

1. 2023 GMC Canyon

OK, so mechanically, the Chevy Colorado and GMC Canyon are essentially the same truck. They are both built by General Motors and share the same platform. The Canyon might be more expensive than the Colorado, but it does have a premium feel. And much like the Chevy, its highest towing capacity is also limited to the higher trim levels. 

The 2023 GMC Canyon is a midsize truck with one of the best towing capacities.
2023 GMC Canyon | GMC

In true GMC form, the high point of this midsize truck might be its Denali trim. The 2023 Canyon Denali can tow up to 7,700 lbs and still offers some legitimate luxury features. Those elements set it apart from what you would expect from a vehicle in this class. 

Are midsize trucks good for towing?

Overall, while midsize trucks are not as capable as full-size pickups, they can still do things like towing and hauling. Just not with the same kinds of numbers that the bigger stuff can handle.

Related 5 Best Midsize Trucks for the Money Start Under $35,000

5 Best Midsize Trucks for the Money Start Under $35,000