The obsession with pickup trucks is central to American culture. Mid-size trucks, in particular, are a great heavy-duty option for consumers looking for a leading combination of durability and power.  If you’re hauling 2,000 to 8,000 pounds, a mid-size truck is a plenty capable of helping you complete the job.

They also are more affordable and fuel-efficient than full-size counterparts.  To help you navigate your choices in 2020, here are the top mid-size trucks for this year based on functionality and consumer ratings. 

The Old Reliable: 2020 Toyota Tacoma

The Toyota Tacoma is synonymous with great mid-size trucks. The Tacoma has tremendous resale value and is known for its towing and performance capacities, and of course for its off-roading experience. This rugged option is geared for adventure and comes in a wide variety of configurations. The 2020 model comes in two body styles: the access cab and the larger double cab.

The middle range TRD Off-Road priced at  $34,000 is the best value option in the lineup and ready to handle the most challenging of terrains.  If you’re looking for a Tacoma designed for the city, you’ll want to go with the Limited model which is the next level up at $38,790.

The 2020 Tacoma also features two engines. There’s the 2.7-liter 4-cylinder with 159-horsepower and the 3.5-liter V6 with 278-horsepower. The 4-cylinder is only available with a 6-speed automatic transmission while the v6 has an additional 6-speed manual option on 4WD models.  

Other 2020 features for the Tacoma include technology to connect for your Apple and Android phones. The main drawback of this model is the tight cabin space which may be too cramped for some. 

The Most Bells and Whistles: 2020 Chevrolet Colorado

The 2020 Chevrolet Colorado is a higher-performing mid-size truck that offers the greatest towing capability at 7,700 pounds and also provides exceptional passenger comfort.  It has three available engines: 2.5 L 4-cylinder, 2.8 L 4-cylinder diesel, and 3.6 L V6 with a 181 to 308 horsepower range. 

This truck is also pretty fuel-efficient with a combined EPA rating of 23 mpg. The 2020 model comes in three trims: the Base at $21,300, the WV $24,800, and the LT and 27,700. There’s also the new ZR2 truck option that’s designed specifically for off-roading but it’s at a significantly higher price of $41,400.

The Chevy also has awesome interior technology features including a thorough infotainment system with available 4G LTE, wireless charging, and standard Apple CarPlay and Auto Android functionality. Safety features include a standard rearview camera and available forward collision assistance, and lane departure warning. As far as 2020 goes, Colorado is the best all-around mid-size truck as highlighted by the 2020 Kelley Blue Book Best Buy Award.

The Honorable Mention: The 2020 Honda Ridgeline

The redesigned 2020 Honda Ridgeline categorized as a mid-size truck with top safety ratings from many car critics. It can haul up to 5,000 pounds which is the most truck-like thing about it. The Ridgeline’s handling power is similar to that of a car’s. It’s available in four trims with the most standard option priced at $33,900.  It’s not a great-value buy, but it’s a smooth ride that’s actually kind of cute.