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The compact pickup truck market is only beginning to gain steam and grow. The midsize truck market offers excellent models with various capabilities. Somehow, U.S. News and World Report stuffed these two classes together to provide a list of compact pickups rated the best for 2022. While an admirable effort, this list should be the best non-full-size trucks in the market. Either way, we’ve got some great trucks to discuss.

The 2022 Nissan Frontier is new and affordable

2022 Nissan Frontier midsize truck posed on dirt trail
2022 Nissan Frontier midsize truck posed on dirt trail | Nissan

A new generation of the Nissan Frontier begins with the 2022 model year. This truck remains one of the most affordable in the midsize truck market. Only the Toyota Tacoma has a lower starting price in this class. The new Frontier gives us a more competitive truck that can keep up with the rest of the market. Enjoy the smooth ride, off-road capability, and quality of the Frontier.

2022 Nissan Frontier price range is $27,840-$37,240

Jeep capabilities in the 2022 Gladiator

This is a promo photo of a red Jeep Gladiator Rubicon on a trail.
Jeep’s new pickup is one of the best off-road trucks around | Stellantis

Most of us understand what to expect from a Jeep. The Gladiator doesn’t disappoint or shy away from its brand name. This midsize truck can handle the tough stuff on any trail while pulling a heavy load. There’s plenty of room for the payload you need to bring with you and all of the Jeep features you admire. Sit high and take on the rugged trails in the Gladiator.

2022 Jeep Gladiator price range is $36,085-$48,025

The 2022 Hyundai Santa Cruz is a unique choice

A blue Hyundai Santa Cruz is in the forest.
A blue Hyundai Santa Cruz is in the forest | Hyundai

The smallest truck on this list is the Santa Cruz. This is the first entry into the truck market in America for Hyundai, and it’s an interesting model. This Hyundai offers a quality build, lots of standard technology, and desired safety features. It may feel underpowered to some, and the bed is rather small, limiting the cargo capabilities. Still, this compact truck could fit owners that only need to do truck stuff occasionally.

2022 Hyundai Santa Cruz price range is $23,990-$39,720

Versatility in the 2022 Ford Maverick

Yellow 2022 Ford Maverick at Detroit Motor Show
2022 Ford Maverick | Getty Images

Another compact truck on this list is the Ford Maverick. This Ford is one of the smallest trucks you’ll see, but it has something you don’t find in other trucks. There’s a versatile cargo system for the cabin and the bed. This gives owners the flexibility to configure storage areas to meet their needs. The Maverick is the right truck to drive for those looking for a small truck.

2022 Ford Maverick price range is $19,995-$25,490

The midsize truck best seller is the 2022 Toyota Tacoma

Promo shot of a gray Toyota Tacoma parked in front of a lake and mountains.
2022 Toyota Tacoma | Toyota

Configurable and capable, the Toyota Tacoma continues to dominate the sales numbers, according to MotorTrend. This is a truck you’ve known for many years in many ways. From the base model to the TRD Pro, the Tacoma is a truck you depend on to get things done. You can experience off-road driving at its best, enjoy a user-friendly tech package, or one of the most affordable trucks in the market.

2022 Toyota Tacoma price range is $26,500-$48,640

Power without pizzaz in the 2022 Ford Ranger

A forged green Ford Ranger Splash, the forest edition is one of the 3 special limited editions available. What are the colors?
Ford Ranger Splash – Forest Edition | Ford

If you’re looking for a pickup truck that’s big on power without a lot of extras, the Ford Ranger is the right truck to drive. This midsize pickup truck has an excellent powertrain that can tow up to 7,500 pounds without breaking a sweat. Even though it’s plenty capable, the cabin leaves us wanting more with its basic build and cheap plastic items.

2022 Ford Ranger price range is $25,285-$39,250

The 2022 GMC Canyon is a midsize truck closer to luxury

White 2023 GMC Canyon AT4 on a dirt road
2023 GMC Canyon AT4 | GMC

GMC has offered trucks that reach luxury levels of driving for years. The Canyon is no exception, especially in the Denali trim. This is one of the most comfortable midsize trucks you’ll drive. The seats are supportive, and the suspension easily soaks up road problems. Three powertrains bring you various capability levels during your drive.

2022 GMC Canyon price range is $26,800-$45,500

Tons of amazing packages for the 2022 Chevrolet Colorado

2022 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 kicking up dirt on the trails
2022 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 | Chevrolet

The Colorado is a truck that comes in various trims and packages. The ZR2 off-road package can be taken to a higher level with the Bison features added to the mix. Three powertrains make up the power mix for this truck, similar to the Canyon. This truck brings excellent towing capacity and is one of the most useful midsize trucks in the market.

2022 Chevrolet Colorado price range is $25,200-$44,200

The 2022 Honda Ridgeline is a unibody midsize truck

White 2022 Honda Ridgeline promo photo
2022 Honda Ridgeline | Honda

When you want a truck that drives like an SUV while giving you truck capabilities, the Honda Ridgeline is the right truck. The tow rating is 5,000 pounds, and you’ll find a versatile bed with under-bed storage to use. This truck is comfortable on the roads, but it can also drive on light paths and dirt roads.

2022 Honda Ridgeline price range is $36,890-$44,320

Next, check out the new Toyota Tundra Capstone, or watch a few of the 2022 midsize trucks compared in the video below:

This article was updated on 9/8/2022.

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