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If you aren’t interested in a brand-new truck, these options from 2021 can be found lightly used for a better deal. The best midsize off-road trucks come from Toyota, Chevrolet, and Jeep. Not just an old pickup truck will do in the dirt, so make sure you make the right off-road-ready choice.

A used Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro is one of the best midsize off-road trucks

The best midsize off-road trucks includes this 2021 Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro
The 2021 Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro | Toyota

When Edmunds ranked some of the best trucks to buy lightly used, the 2021 Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro is an obvious choice. The 3.5-liter V6 engine gets 278 hp and 265 lb-ft of torque, which is enough to power the Tacoma on and off-road. Edmunds notes that its excellent approach and departure angles add to its utility.

Fox internal bypass shocks and all-terrain tires don’t hurt, either. A Lockable rear differential and Bilstein shock absorbers are also part of the TRD Pro’s offerings. It is worth considering the Multi-Terrain monitor system if you plan to go off-roading regularly.

Engine: 3.5-liter V6

Horsepower: 278 hp @ 6,000 rpm

Chevrolet’s Colorado ZR2 is another option for the best midsize off-road trucks to buy used

Edmunds says the 2021 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 is the best version to buy for off-roading, even if the other options are less expensive. Chevrolet offered numerous creature comforts like leather seats, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The ZR2 has upgraded bumpers and a lifted suspension for more effortless off-roading. Bigger tires and a spray-in bed liner don’t hurt, either.

Edmunds recommends the standard V6 in the Colorado ZR2, even if there are other options like the four-cylinder diesel. It provides plenty of acceleration and is still cheaper, so you can spend more on off-road necessities. That makes the ZR2 one of the best midsize off-road trucks.

Engine: 3.6-liter V6

Horsepower: 308 hp @ 6,800 rpm

Check out the Jeep Gladiator Rubicon

Even if it might not be the average Jeep product, the 2021 Jeep Gladiator Rubicon has plenty to offer buyers. While it identifies as a crew cab pickup truck, it is also a Wrangler with a truck bed and off-road capability. The Gladiator Rubicon is ready for the dirt with good approach/departure angles and four-wheel drive standard. Edmunds says you don’t need to upgrade from the V6 engine because it is competent, but the EcoDiesel 3.0-liter V6 engine is also available.

The Gladiator can tow 7,650 pounds too, which is enough weight for whatever you might need over the weekend. People enjoy driving the Jeep Gladiator Rubicon, and these are just some of the reasons why.

Engine: 3.6-liter V6 or 3.0-liter turbodiesel V6

Horsepower: 285 hp @ 6,400 rpm (gas), 260 hp @ 3,600 rpm (diesel)

The best midsize off-road trucks from Ford, Jeep, and Chevrolet won’t leave you regretting your decision. Depending on what your goals are with your new pickup truck, you’ll be ready for your first adventure as soon as you hop in the front seat.

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