The world of pickup trucks is a dynamic and essential segment of the automotive industry, renowned for vehicles that seamlessly blend utility with everyday usability. While full-size trucks often grab headlines with their astronomical towing figures, it’s the midsize segment that truly offers a compelling sweet spot for a vast array of consumers. These trucks, as versatile as they come, strike a unique balance between raw capability and practical daily drivability, making them incredibly appealing for both arduous work tasks and adventurous leisure pursuits. From hauling heavy equipment to effortlessly towing a camper for a serene weekend escape, the best midsize trucks for towing in 2026 are engineered to exceed expectations.
What truly distinguishes midsize trucks in the current market is their ability to perform demanding tasks without the cumbersome footprint or higher operating costs often associated with their larger counterparts. They are, by design, easier to maneuver through urban landscapes and on tighter trails, generally more fuel-efficient, and frequently come with a more accessible price point. The 2025 models, which serve as the foundation for the 2026 outlook, showcase significant advancements, integrating sophisticated towing features such as trailer sway control and advanced integrated brake controllers. These technological enhancements are not merely luxury add-ons; they are crucial components that elevate the safety and manageability of towing, particularly when dealing with substantial loads, offering peace of mind to drivers.
In this comprehensive guide, we delve deep into the elite echelon of midsize pickup trucks of 2026, meticulously evaluating them based on their formidable towing capacities, diverse engine options, and an array of features that enhance performance and utility. Our aim is to provide an in-depth, expert-backed analysis to help you navigate the choices and pinpoint the ideal vehicle that perfectly aligns with your specific towing requirements and lifestyle. Each truck presented here has been rigorously assessed for its overall performance, the sophistication of its technology, and its inherent suitability for a wide spectrum of towing tasks, ensuring you gain power and capability without compromising on the daily driving experience.
1. **2025 Chevrolet Colorado: The Towing Leader Redefined**The Chevrolet Colorado consistently claims the top spot on many lists, including ours, for the Best Midsize Trucks for Towing in 2025, and its performance sets a high bar for the 2026 outlook. It proudly boasts a class-leading towing capacity of up to 7,700 pounds, a figure explicitly detailed on the official Chevrolet Colorado page, underscoring its exceptional pulling power. This remarkable capability is primarily driven by its potent 2.7-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, which churns out an impressive 310 horsepower and a commanding 430 pound-feet of torque. This robust powertrain ensures that whether you’re hitching a hefty trailer for a job or a boat for a recreational outing, the Colorado handles it with authority and confidence.
Further enhancing its towing credentials is the Colorado’s sophisticated eight-speed transmission, a key component that ensures smooth and responsive performance, particularly when navigating challenging terrain or steep grades. The truck’s engineering is not just about raw power; it’s also about intelligent integration. Edmunds’ 2025 Colorado test specifically highlights its user-friendly towing technology, which includes an optional camera system designed to simplify the often-tricky process of hitching a trailer. This feature, combined with others like blind-zone steering assist with trailering, makes the towing experience less stressful and significantly more efficient for drivers of all experience levels.
Beyond its sheer strength and advanced tech, the Colorado offers impressive versatility. Its compact size contributes to enhanced agility, making it easier to maneuver in tight spaces, a distinct advantage over larger trucks. Available in a range of trims, such as the rugged ZR2, it adeptly caters to both rigorous work demands and thrilling off-road adventures, proving its adaptability. With a starting price from $33,595, as noted in Car and Driver’s Colorado review, it stands out as one of the most affordable options among the top contenders, offering a compelling blend of power, technology, and value. The ability to achieve a 7,700-pound towing capacity with various trim levels and drivetrain options further solidifies its position as a standout.
The 2025 Chevrolet Colorado, which was all-new just three years ago, has truly redefined expectations for the midsize truck segment. All Colorado models are powered by that same 2.7-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine, providing consistent and reliable power across the lineup. To achieve the maximum towing capacity, even the Work Truck (WT) trim can be configured by adding the Advanced Trailering Package. This package bundles essential features such as the TurboMax engine, a 2-inch hitch, a trailer brake controller, an automatic locking rear differential, and the innovative In-Vehicle Trailering App, along with blind-zone steering assist with trailering, all for an additional $1,095. This comprehensive package ensures that drivers have all the necessary tools for safe and efficient towing.
Car Model Information: 2021 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2
Name: Chevrolet Colorado
Caption: 2024 Chevrolet Colorado Z71
Manufacturer: General Motors
Production: 2003–2012, 2014–present (US),2004–2020
(Thailand),2011–present (Brazil)
Class: Pickup truck,Pickup truck
Layout: Front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout
Predecessor: Chevrolet S-10,Chevrolet D-Max,Holden Rodeo,Holden Ute
Aka: GMC Canyon,Holden Colorado
Categories: 2010s cars, 2020s cars, All-wheel-drive vehicles, All articles with dead external links, Articles with dead external links from November 2016
Summary: The Chevrolet Colorado (sharing mechanical commonality with the GMC Canyon) is a series of compact pickup trucks (mid-size since second generation) marketed by American automaker General Motors. They were introduced in 2004 to replace the Chevrolet S-10 and GMC S-15/Sonoma compact pickups. The Colorado is named after the U.S. state of Colorado, while the Canyon took its name from the deep chasm between cliffs.
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Brand: Chevrolet Model: Colorado
Price: $37,766 Mileage: 47,457 mi.
2. **2025 Ford Ranger: Versatile and Tech-Forward Towing**The Ford Ranger, an all-new model introduced last year and serving as a strong contender for 2026, presents itself as an exceptionally well-rounded midsize truck, blending versatility with advanced technology. It offers a commendable towing capacity of up to 7,500 pounds, placing it just slightly below the segment leaders but still more than capable for a wide range of towing requirements. At its core, the Ranger is typically powered by a 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine, which delivers a robust 270 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque, providing ample strength for hauling. For those seeking even greater performance, the Ranger Raptor elevates the experience with its 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6, boosting output to an exhilarating 405 horsepower, though its maximum towing capacity is 5,510 pounds, prioritizing off-road prowess.
The Ranger’s commitment to practical towing is evident in its standard features. Every Ranger comes equipped with a standard trailer hitch receiver, streamlining the process of setting up for towing tasks right from the factory. MotorTrend’s midsize truck rankings highlight the Ranger’s impressive suite of advanced technology, including Ford’s Co-Pilot360 driver-assist features and a prominent 13.2-inch touchscreen display, which make both driving and towing more intuitive and safer. This integration of modern tech with traditional truck capability makes the Ranger an appealing choice for drivers who value both connectivity and utility, offering an experience that is both sophisticated and practical.
Priced starting at $34,000, the Ford Ranger skillfully balances affordability with significant capability, making it a highly competitive option within its segment. The truck’s high-quality cabin design, which received an overhaul last year, combined with its smooth ride characteristics, further cement its position as a strong contender. Its versatility, whether configured for daily commutes, adventurous excursions, or demanding work, firmly secures its spot among the best midsize trucks for towing in 2025 and beyond. The ability to build a Ranger with either the 2.3-liter or 2.7-liter engine to achieve the 7,500-pound towing capacity provides flexibility for buyers to tailor their truck to their specific needs.
The 2025 Ford Ranger, despite being all new last year, maintained its engine and frame largely from the previous generation, which, as the context notes, was perfectly acceptable given the age of the body and bed it replaced. The redesign brought a wider body and a cabin brimming with up-to-date technology, all encased in a much tougher-looking design. For the most affordable path to maximum towing, starting with the 2-wheel-drive XL model and adding the $495 Trailer Tow Package, which includes wiring harnesses and a Class IV hitch receiver, is the way to go. If the 2.7-liter engine is desired for its increased power, 4-wheel drive is required, with the most affordable combination being the 4-wheel-drive XLT, also with the $495 Trailer Tow Package, bringing the price to $43,880. This strategic bundling ensures that even entry-level models can be equipped for serious towing tasks.
Car Model Information: 2021 Ford Ranger XL
Categories: All set index articles, Articles with short description, Cars introduced in 1982, Commons category link from Wikidata, Ford vehicles
Summary: The Ford Ranger is a compact or mid-size pickup marketed globally by Ford over a series of generations, varying between both in-house or outside development and manufacturing — and with a hiatus in North America from 2011–2018.
Debuting as a compact pickup in North America in 1982 for the 1983 model year, the Ranger was later introduced in some South American countries. From 1998 to 2011, the Ranger nameplate was used for models developed by Mazda for sale outside the North American market. In 2011, Ford introduced the first Ranger based on the T6 platform. Considered a mid-size pickup truck, the model was developed in-house by Ford Australia. In that same year, the North American-market Ranger was discontinued, leaving the T6 platform-based Ranger as the sole Ranger model worldwide.
For the 2019 model year, the Ranger was reintroduced in North America using the globally-marketed T6 model. It is manufactured at the Michigan Assembly Plant at Wayne, Michigan. The Ranger is smaller than the F-150 and larger than the Maverick in the Ford North American pickup truck range, while for markets outside the Americas it is typically the only Ford pickup offered for sale.
The second generation of the T6-based Ranger was released in 2021 for worldwide markets, using a revised T6 platform.
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Brand: Ford Model: Ranger
Price: $24,950 Mileage: 34,853 mi.
3. **2025 GMC Canyon: Premium Towing Performance and Luxury**As a close relative to the Chevrolet Colorado, the GMC Canyon stands out as another premier selection for the Best Midsize Trucks for Towing in 2025, offering a premium experience. Matching the Colorado’s impressive 7,700-pound towing capacity, the Canyon achieves this feat with its identical high-output 2.7-liter turbo engine, ensuring robust pulling power is consistently available. However, where the Canyon truly distinguishes itself is through its elevated sense of luxury and refinement. It boasts a more sophisticated interior and is available in premium trims like the Denali, which offers an upscale cabin environment that rivals many SUVs, providing comfort without sacrificing capability.
The Canyon comes exceptionally prepared for towing tasks right from the factory, as its standard trailering package is comprehensive. This package includes a robust 2-inch receiver hitch and versatile connectors, ensuring compatibility with a wide array of trailers. For those whose adventures extend beyond the paved road, the AT4X trim is engineered to excel in off-road towing scenarios, combining rugged durability with significant hauling prowess. MotorTrend’s midsize truck rankings frequently commend the Canyon for its refined ride quality and outstanding towing capabilities, underscoring its dual nature as both a comfortable daily driver and a formidable workhorse.
Adding to its utility, the innovative MultiPro tailgate, a signature GMC feature, provides unparalleled versatility for securing and managing loads in the truck bed, from lumber to gear. Starting at an approximate price of $40,000, the GMC Canyon positions itself as a premium offering in the midsize truck segment. It delivers a superior driving and towing experience, justifying its higher price point with an enhanced level of comfort, advanced features, and a more luxurious feel. The Canyon’s seamless integration of capability and comfort makes it a clear leader among the Best Midsize Trucks for Towing in 2025.
Benefiting from the same foundational updates as its sibling Chevrolet Colorado just two years prior, the 2025 GMC Canyon showcases renewed styling and an impressive range of trim levels, including the highly capable AT4X, which is the Canyon’s most formidable off-roader to date. All Canyons uniformly rely on the potent 2.7-liter turbo 4-cylinder engine, producing 310 hp and 430 lb-ft of torque, ensuring consistent and powerful performance across the lineup. The inclusion of GMC’s trailering package as standard equipment across all trim levels—including a 2-inch receiver hitch, 4- and 7-pin connectors, and a trailer brake controller—means that maximum towing capability is readily accessible. The Elevation, AT4, and Denali trims are all capable of being outfitted to tow 7,700 pounds, with the rear-wheel-drive Elevation standing as the least expensive option to achieve this maximum capacity.
Car Model Information: 2018 GMC Canyon SLE
Name: Chevrolet Colorado
Caption: 2024 Chevrolet Colorado Z71
Manufacturer: General Motors
Production: 2003–2012, 2014–present (US),2004–2020
(Thailand),2011–present (Brazil)
Class: Pickup truck,Pickup truck
Layout: Front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout
Predecessor: Chevrolet S-10,Chevrolet D-Max,Holden Rodeo,Holden Ute
Aka: GMC Canyon,Holden Colorado
Categories: 2010s cars, 2020s cars, All-wheel-drive vehicles, All articles with dead external links, Articles with dead external links from November 2016
Summary: The Chevrolet Colorado (sharing mechanical commonality with the GMC Canyon) is a series of compact pickup trucks (mid-size since second generation) marketed by American automaker General Motors. They were introduced in 2004 to replace the Chevrolet S-10 and GMC S-15/Sonoma compact pickups. The Colorado is named after the U.S. state of Colorado, while the Canyon took its name from the deep chasm between cliffs.
Get more information about: Chevrolet Colorado
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Brand: GMC Model: Canyon
Price: $21,785 Mileage: 135,840 mi.
Read more about: Decoding ‘Worst’: A Consumer Guide to Understanding Reliability Ratings for 2025 Pickup Trucks
4. **2025 Honda Ridgeline: Comfort-First Towing with Ingenious Utility**The Honda Ridgeline carves out a distinct niche within the midsize truck segment, renowned for its unibody construction which provides a notably car-like ride quality and superior on-road comfort. While its towing capacity of 5,000 pounds is lower than that of its body-on-frame rivals, the Ridgeline remains perfectly capable for lighter towing tasks, such as hauling small trailers, boats, or recreational vehicles. Powering this unique truck is a reliable 3.5-liter V6 engine that generates 280 horsepower, delivering smooth and efficient performance that complements its refined driving dynamics. This engine is well-suited for its intended purpose, offering a balance of power and efficiency.
Utility is a hallmark of the Ridgeline’s design, highlighted by its innovative in-bed trunk and a dual-action tailgate. The in-bed trunk provides secure, lockable storage underneath the bed floor, which can even be drained, making it ideal for everything from tools to ice-filled coolers. The dual-action tailgate can either drop down conventionally or swing open to the side, offering unparalleled flexibility for loading and unloading cargo. These thoughtful features enhance its practicality for both work and leisure activities, making it highly adaptable to various needs and situations.
With a starting price of around $39,000, the Honda Ridgeline makes a clear statement by prioritizing comfort, refinement, and unique utility over sheer, raw towing power. Its smooth handling characteristics, coupled with a spacious and well-appointed cabin, make it an excellent choice for urban drivers and families who appreciate a comfortable and composed ride without fully sacrificing the utility of a truck. The Ridgeline stands as a unique and compelling entry among the Best Midsize Trucks for Towing in 2025, particularly for those who seek a sophisticated and comfortable truck experience that blends seamlessly into daily life.
The 2025 Honda Ridgeline is celebrated for its unique blend of SUV-like amenities and truck functionality. Every trim level of the Ridgeline is inherently prepared to tow its maximum 5,000-pound capacity; the only additional requirement is the installation of the $240 trailer hitch towing kit. This straightforward approach means buyers don’t need to navigate complex configurations or expensive packages to achieve the truck’s full towing potential. The Ridgeline’s innovative design, including the underfloor storage area that can be drained, further enhances its appeal for those who value smart functionality and versatile use beyond just towing. It truly offers a distinctive proposition in the midsize truck market, providing capabilities that cater to a different set of priorities compared to its more rugged, body-on-frame competitors.
Continuing our exploration into the most capable midsize pickup trucks for 2026, we now shift our focus to the remaining contenders that blend formidable towing prowess with distinctive features tailored for various demanding needs. The market for midsize trucks is more diverse and competitive than ever, offering a spectrum of options from rugged off-road specialists to sophisticated electric workhorses. Each model presents a unique philosophy, ensuring that whether your priority is navigating challenging trails, maximizing fuel efficiency, or embracing cutting-edge electric power, there’s a truck meticulously engineered to meet your specific criteria and exceed expectations for both work and leisure.
Car Model Information: 2023 Honda Ridgeline Black
Name: Honda Ridgeline
Manufacturer: Honda
Caption: 2022 Honda Ridgeline
Production: 2005–early 2015,2016–present
ModelYears: 2006–2014,2017–present
Assembly: Alliston, Ontario
Class: Pickup truck#Mid-size pickup truck
BodyStyle: 4-door pickup truck
Layout: ubl
Categories: 2010s cars, All-wheel-drive vehicles, All Wikipedia articles written in American English, Articles with short description, CS1 maint: multiple names: authors list
Summary: The Honda Ridgeline is a mid-size pickup truck manufactured and marketed by Honda since the 2006 model year, over two generations in a unibody, crew–cab, short-box configuration with a transverse-mounted engine.
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Brand: Honda Model: Ridgeline
Price: $31,997 Mileage: 46,675 mi.
5. **2025 Jeep Gladiator: The Off-Road Towing Expert**When the trail calls and a trailer needs to come along, the 2025 Jeep Gladiator answers with an unmatched blend of rugged off-road capability and solid towing performance. Distinctly positioned in the midsize segment, the Gladiator offers a formidable 7,700-pound towing capacity in specific configurations, a figure confirmed by TrueCar’s towing capacity guide. This makes it an ideal choice for adventurers who require both the iconic open-air freedom of a Jeep and the practical utility of a pickup, allowing them to haul everything from ATVs to small campers deep into the backcountry.
At its heart, the Gladiator is powered by a robust 3.6-liter V6 engine, generating a healthy 285 horsepower, which provides more than enough grunt for serious towing tasks. Furthermore, for 2025, Jeep is introducing a new 4xe plug-in hybrid variant, promising enhanced torque that will further benefit its towing capabilities, making it even more appealing for those who seek a balance of power and efficiency. This integration of a hybrid powertrain underscores Jeep’s commitment to evolving its lineup while staying true to its adventurous roots, offering a forward-thinking option for the eco-conscious enthusiast.
The Gladiator truly differentiates itself through its unique convertible design and an extensive suite of off-road features, including highly capable locking differentials. While its towing manners may be considered less refined compared to the General Motors offerings, its unparalleled prowess when the pavement ends is undeniable. Trims such as the Rubicon and Mojave are specifically engineered to appeal to hardcore adventure-seekers, providing exceptional ground clearance, robust suspensions, and specialized tires that make light work of challenging terrains, all while maintaining significant hauling ability.
To unlock the maximum towing capacity for the lowest price, buyers should consider the Gladiator Sport trim, paired with the $1,895 Max Tow Package. This package automatically bundles the Trailer Tow and Auxiliary Switch Group for a total of $3,290. This comprehensive upgrade includes essential components like a 4.10 rear axle, a 240-amp alternator, 17-inch wheels shod with all-terrain tires, a locking rear differential, a Class IV hitch, and upgraded engine cooling, alongside heavy-duty Dana 44 front and rear axles, ensuring the Gladiator is fully equipped for the most demanding towing expeditions.
Car Model Information: 2021 Jeep Gladiator Sport
Name: Jeep Gladiator (JT)
Aka: Jeep JT (Mexico)
Manufacturer: Jeep
Production: April 2019–present
ModelYears: 2020–present
Assembly: Toledo, Ohio
Designer: Taylor Langhals
Engine: ubl
Transmission: List of Aisin transmissions#Longitudinal rear-wheel drive,Manual transmission
Class: Mid-size,pickup truck
BodyStyle: 4-door pickup truck with removable roof and doors
Related: Jeep Wrangler (JL)
Layout: Front-engine, four-wheel-drive layout
Predecessor: Jeep CJ#CJ-10,Jeep Comanche
Weight: convert
Wheelbase: 137.3 in
Abbr: on
Lk: on
Length: 218.0 in
Width: 73.8 in
Height: convert
Categories: All-wheel-drive vehicles, Articles with short description, CS1 Japanese-language sources (ja), Cars introduced in 2018, Commons category link is on Wikidata
Summary: The Jeep Gladiator is a mid-size pickup truck manufactured by the Jeep division of Stellantis North America (formerly FCA US). It was introduced at the 2018 Los Angeles Auto Show on November 28, 2018, and went on sale in the spring of 2019 as a 2020 model. Based on the same platform as the Wrangler JL, the Gladiator is Jeep’s first pickup truck since the Comanche was discontinued in 1992, although the very similar dual-cab AEV Brute was custom-made using the Wrangler platform from 2013 until 2017 by American Expedition Vehicles under license.
The first markets outside the Americas were Australia and New Zealand. It is now also marketed in China, Japan, South Korea, South Africa as well as in selected nations in South America, Europe, and Southeast Asia.
Get more information about: Jeep Gladiator (JT)
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Brand: Jeep Model: Gladiator
Price: $29,900 Mileage: 46,541 mi.
6. **2025 Toyota Tacoma: The Reliable Workhorse**The Toyota Tacoma has long held a revered status in the midsize truck segment, celebrated for its unwavering durability, exceptional resale value, and impressive off-road prowess. For 2025, the all-new Tacoma continues this tradition, offering a competitive towing capacity of up to 6,500 pounds when equipped with its potent 2.4-liter turbocharged i-Force engine. While this figure is slightly less than some of its rivals, it remains perfectly adequate for a vast majority of recreational and light-duty work towing needs, solidifying its position as a go-to choice for reliability-conscious buyers.
The new Tacoma’s powertrain strategy introduces a sophisticated 2.4-liter turbo engine that generates a robust 278 horsepower. For those prioritizing efficiency, the iFORCE-MAX hybrid variant is available, though it slightly lowers the maximum towing capacity to 6,400 pounds, underscoring its focus on fuel economy. This blend of traditional robust power and advanced hybrid technology allows buyers to choose a Tacoma that best fits their specific priorities, whether that’s maximizing towing capability or optimizing daily driving efficiency, without significantly compromising on either front.
Built on the robust TNGA-F platform, the 2025 Tacoma boasts improved handling characteristics, offering a more refined and stable ride both on and off the road. The truck’s legacy of durability is further enhanced by modern features and a comfortable cabin, though it’s worth noting that rear-seat space can be somewhat limited compared to some competitors. Enthusiasts will appreciate the availability of a six-speed manual transmission and the purpose-built Trailhunter trim, which elevates its off-road credentials to new heights, making it an even more formidable companion for adventurous escapades.
Achieving the maximum 6,500-pound towing capacity is straightforward with the 2- or 4-wheel-drive XtraCab equipped with the 278-hp i-Force engine. Moving up to the SR5 trim level grants access to this powerful engine as standard, along with a Class IV hitch receiver and other essential towing aids. For an even more optimized towing experience, we highly recommend adding the $1,825 SR5 Upgrade Package, which includes a crucial trailer brake controller, further enhancing safety and control when hauling significant loads. The Tacoma starts at approximately $38,785, offering a compelling blend of capability, technology, and Toyota’s legendary reliability.
Car Model Information: 2022 Toyota Tacoma TRD Sport
Name: Toyota Tacoma
Caption: 2020 Toyota Tacoma TRD Off-Road
Manufacturer: Toyota
Production: January 1995 – present
ModelYears: 1995–present
Class: unbulleted list
Layout: Front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout
Predecessor: Toyota Hilux (N80)
Categories: 2000s cars, 2010s cars, 2020s cars, All-wheel-drive vehicles, All Wikipedia articles written in American English
Summary: The Toyota Tacoma is a pickup truck manufactured by Japanese automobile manufacturer Toyota since 1995. The first-generation Tacoma (model years 1995 through 2004) was classified as a compact pickup; subsequent models are classified as mid-sized pickups. The Tacoma was Motor Trend’s Truck of the Year for 2005.
As of 2015, the Tacoma was sold in the United States, Canada, Mexico, Costa Rica, Bolivia, Bermuda, and the French overseas collectivity of New Caledonia. Most markets across the world receive the Toyota Hilux in lieu of the Tacoma.
The name “Tacoma” was derived from the Coast Salish peoples’ name for Mount Rainier in the U.S. state of Washington.
Get more information about: Toyota Tacoma
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Brand: Toyota Model: Tacoma
Price: $30,867 Mileage: 39,447 mi.
Read more about: The 15 Unstoppable Trucks: Engineering Excellence That Conquers 300,000 Miles and Beyond
7. **2025 Nissan Frontier: The Budget-Friendly and Capable Option**The 2025 Nissan Frontier makes a compelling case for itself as a budget-friendly yet highly capable midsize truck, presenting a robust towing capacity of up to 7,150 pounds. This figure, particularly achievable in its King Cab S configuration, positions the Frontier as a strong contender for those who need significant hauling power without a premium price tag. Its brawny looks and a straightforward, functional approach to truck ownership make it an attractive option for both work and casual use, proving that capability doesn’t always have to come at a steep cost.
Powering the Frontier is a reliable 3.8-liter V6 engine, which delivers a substantial 310 horsepower. While this engine provides ample power for towing and daily driving, some might find its overall feel somewhat less modern compared to the more recently updated powertrains found in some of its key rivals. Nevertheless, its proven track record for dependability makes it a solid choice for buyers who prioritize consistent performance and straightforward mechanicals, offering a no-frills yet effective approach to truck utility.
While the Frontier’s interior and overall handling characteristics might lag slightly behind some of its more contemporary competitors, it offers a comfortable and refined cabin environment that belies its accessible starting price. It’s a truck designed to get the job done efficiently and reliably, making it an excellent option for those whose primary need is a dependable towing truck without requiring the latest high-tech gadgets or an overly plush ride. The Frontier truly rounds out the choices for value-conscious buyers looking for solid performance and utility.
For those aiming to achieve the maximum towing capacity with the most economical outlay, the 2-wheel-drive King (extended) Cab S is the optimal choice, starting at an attractive $33,560. To fully equip it for its 7,150-pound maximum, the $525 Tow Package is essential. This package includes a Class IV hitch receiver, a 4-pin/7-pin wiring harness, and connections for both trailer lights and trailer brakes, ensuring comprehensive readiness for various towing scenarios. For buyers who prefer a Crew Cab, the highest towing capacity available is 7,040 pounds, found in the 2-wheel-drive short-wheelbase S Crew Cab with the Tow Package, priced at $35,485.
Car Model Information: 2017 Nissan Frontier SV-I4
Categories: All set index articles, Articles with short description, Nissan vehicles, Set index articles on cars, Short description is different from Wikidata
Summary: The Nissan Frontier is a nameplate used on three different pickup truck models by Nissan:
Nissan Frontier (international), an alternative nameplate for the NP300/Navara on some markets.
Nissan Frontier (North America), a rebadged NP300/Navara from 1997 to 2021, then became a separate model since 2021.
Nissan Frontier Pro, a rebadged Dongfeng Z9 that will be available from 2025. Available as both a diesel and plug-in hybrid, with the latter being the initial variant.
Get more information about: Nissan Frontier
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Brand: Nissan Model: Frontier
Price: Not Priced Mileage: 63,351 mi.
8. **2025 Rivian R1T: The Electric Powerhouse**The 2025 Rivian R1T boldly redefines the midsize truck segment, not just as a capable vehicle, but as a fully electric powerhouse built for both adventurous exploration and rigorous work tasks. With an astonishing maximum towing capacity of 11,000 pounds, the R1T dramatically surpasses every other midsize truck on this list, entering territory typically reserved for full-size and even some heavy-duty offerings. This impressive capability, combined with a robust payload capacity of up to 1,764 pounds, makes it an exceptionally versatile tool for a wide range of needs.
Beyond its sheer strength, the R1T boasts an incredible estimated range of up to 420 miles, offering unprecedented freedom for an electric truck (though it’s important to note that towing heavy loads will naturally impact this range). Its impressive nearly 15 inches of ground clearance ensures that venturing deep into the backcountry on off-road adventures is not just possible, but encouraged. The R1T seamlessly integrates sustainable power with extreme utility, providing an environmentally conscious option without compromising on performance, challenging traditional notions of what a pickup truck can be.
Rivian has engineered the R1T with thoughtful features specifically designed to enhance the towing experience. Upon connecting a trailer, a dedicated ‘Towing mode’ intuitively appears on the vehicle’s central screen, allowing drivers to precisely adjust the trailer brake controller. Crucially, this mode also displays the estimated range directly on the driver’s screen while towing, providing essential real-time feedback for trip planning. The truck’s fully independent suspension is another standout, automatically leveling the ride height when a heavy trailer is hitched, and can even be lowered manually to simplify the process of disconnecting the trailer from the truck. Every R1T comes standard with a robust 2-inch Class V receiver, ensuring immediate towing readiness.
To unlock the maximum 11,000-pound towing capacity, customers will need to move up one trim level to the R1T Dual Large, which is configured to deliver this extraordinary pulling power. With a starting base price of $71,700 and a configured price of $78,700 for the Dual Large, the Rivian R1T represents a significant investment. However, for those seeking the ultimate in electric truck performance, unparalleled towing capabilities, and cutting-edge technology wrapped in an adventure-ready package, the R1T stands as an unrivaled option in the midsize segment for 2026.
Car Model Information: 2022 Rivian R1T Adventure
Name: Rivian R1T
Manufacturer: Rivian
Production: 2021–present
ModelYears: 2022–present
Assembly: Rivian Automotive,LLC
Designer: Jeff Hammoud
Class: Mid-size car,luxury car,pickup truck
BodyStyle: crew cab
Layout: unbulleted list
Related: Rivian R1S
Motor: Alternating current,Permanent magnet motor
Transmission: Single-speed
Battery: kWh,lithium-ion battery
ElectricRange: unbulleted list
Abbr: on
Charging: unbulleted list
Wheelbase: 135.9 in
Length: 217.1 in
Width: 81.8 in
Height: 75.7 in
Weight: cvt
Sp: us
Powerout: unbulleted list
Chassis: Body-on-frame
Categories: All Wikipedia articles written in American English, All articles with vague or ambiguous time, Articles with short description, Commons category link is on Wikidata, Electric trucks
Summary: The Rivian R1T is a battery electric mid-size light duty luxury pickup truck produced by the American company Rivian. The first production R1T was manufactured in Illinois on September 28, 2021, and was delivered to a customer. The official EPA range for the Rivian R1T (MY 2022–2024) ranges from 255–420 miles (410–676 km), depending on drivetrain, battery pack capacity and wheel size.
Get more information about: Rivian R1T
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Brand: Rivian Model: R1T
Price: $54,461 Mileage: 25,879 mi.
As we conclude our comprehensive journey through the best midsize pickup trucks for towing in 2026, it’s clear that the automotive landscape is brimming with innovation and diversity. From the rugged, trail-blazing capability of the Jeep Gladiator to the quiet, electric might of the Rivian R1T, and the steadfast reliability of the Toyota Tacoma, alongside the budget-conscious appeal of the Nissan Frontier, each truck carves its own unique path. This segment truly offers a vehicle for every preference, whether your driving demands lean towards arduous work, thrilling off-road exploration, or a sophisticated blend of daily comfort and occasional heavy hauling. Ultimately, selecting your ideal midsize truck for towing comes down to a thoughtful alignment of your specific needs, adventurous spirit, and practical requirements with the exceptional capabilities these remarkable machines bring to the table. The perfect blend of power, technology, and utility is waiting to be discovered, ready to empower your next adventure or tackle your toughest tasks with confidence and ease.
