10 Best Pickup Trucks to Buy in 2023

Are you ready to tackle the great Canadian outdoors? Whether you're a weekend warrior or an adventure enthusiast, having the perfect compact pickup truck by your side is essential. With their urban maneuverability, off-road adventures, or hauling gear, these compact pickups have got you covered. 

In this blog, we'll explore the top contenders, highlighting their features, performance, and overall value. 

 

Here are the 10 best pickup trucks to buy in 2023

 

1. Toyota Tacoma

 

The Toyota Tacoma is a top contender when it comes to the best mid-size trucks available. With over 16 years in the market, it has developed a dedicated fan base, thanks to its exceptional off-road performance.

The Tacoma 2022 models offer a choice between the Access Cab version and the Double Cab version, where you have the option to customize your Tacoma with various packages, such as the TRD Off Road Premium and TRD Pro, to enhance both the front and rear suspension. Tacoma's reputation for excellent resale value is well-deserved. It offers engine options, including a standard 2.7-liter 4-cylinder or an optional 3.5-liter V6, providing horsepower outputs of 159 (standard) and 278 (upgrade) respectively.

Furthermore, the Tacoma boasts impressive towing capacity, allowing you to tow up to 6,500 pounds (2,948 kg), and a payload capacity of up to 1,440 pounds (653 kg). These capabilities make Tacoma a versatile and reliable choice for any truck enthusiast.

 

2. Hyundai Santa Cruz 

 

Built on the Tuscon SUV platform, the 2022 Hyundai Santa Cruz blends the best features of an SUV, sedan, and conventional pickup. With its versatile nature, it offers a little bit of everything you need. Whether you're looking for the power of a standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine or the extra boost of a turbocharged upgrade, the Santa Cruz has you covered. It boasts a towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds (2,268 kg) and a payload capacity of up to 1,748 pounds (792 kg), making it capable of handling your hauling needs. When it comes to hauling, the 4-foot truck bed provides ample space for shopping trips or packing gear for weekend getaways. You have a choice between a standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine or a turbocharged upgrade, giving you the power you need.

It offers an impressive 8.6-inch ground clearance, rivaling other go-anywhere crossovers like the Subaru Outback. The 2022 Hyundai Santa Cruz is the perfect choice for those who seek a truck that combines versatility, style, and functionality into one impressive package.

 

3. Jeep Gladiator

 

The Jeep Gladiator combines the beloved features of the Jeep Wrangler with a spacious cargo bed, and meets the practicality of a mid-size truck. With a 5-foot cargo bed, this mid-size truck offers extra room for your gear without compromising on the iconic Jeep experience.

What sets the Gladiator apart is the option for a diesel engine, perfect for those adventure-seekers who desire long-distance journeys with their Jeep. With available engines including a 3.6-liter V6 with a 6-speed manual or 8-speed automatic transmission, and a 3.0-liter EcoDiesel V6 with an 8-speed TorqueFlite automatic transmission, the Gladiator offers power and versatility.

The Gladiator is ready to tackle your toughest challenges with a horsepower of 285 (3.6L/V6), a towing capacity of up to 4,500 pounds (2,041 kg), and a payload capacity of up to 1,600 pounds (725 kg). It also features five-passenger seating, four doors, and four-wheel drive capability. It's available in four trim configurations - Sport, Overland, Rubicon, and Mojave - all catering to the preferences of loyal Wrangler enthusiasts.

 

4. Nissan Frontier

 

The latest iteration of the Frontier boasts a complete interior redesign, silencing the criticism received for its earlier model which debuted way back in 2005. Demonstrating a towing capacity of up to 6,490 pounds (2,943 kg) and a payload capacity of 1,430 pounds (648 kg), the Nissan Frontier highlights its versatility and suitability for various hauling needs.

Frontier features enhancements like Zero Gravity Seating, as well as heated seats and steering wheel. And to cater to different size requirements, the Frontier is available in a King Cab configuration with seating for four or a five-seat Crew Cab option. The Crew Cab can also be transformed into a spacious flat surface for carrying cargo.

When it comes to power, the Frontier offers a robust 310-horsepower V6 engine, providing confidence and performance on any challenging terrain. It should be noted that this engine delivers the most power in the compact truck segment. With its updated interior and powerful V6 engine, the 2022 Nissan Frontier proves to be a compelling choice in the mid-size truck market.

 

5. Chevrolet Colorado

 

Introducing the versatile and capable mid-size Chevrolet Colorado, the perfect choice for Chevy truck enthusiasts who desire a smaller footprint than the Silverado. With its impressive towing capacity of up to 7,700 pounds (3,492 kg), this urban cowboy is ready for any hauling challenge.

In 2023, the Colorado received a complete redesign, along with its GMC Canyon sibling. It introduced exciting new models like the Trail Boss and the even more rugged ZR2. The entire lineup now features a single-engine option: the 2.7L turbocharged engine. Inside the cabin, you'll find four distinct interior trims and a standard 11.3-inch-diagonal color infotainment touchscreen.

For added functionality, the 2023 Colorado offers a redesigned cargo bed with innovative features. It boasts an available tailgate storage system, a mid-position tailgate, and even a 110V power outlet—making it a leader in its mid-size segment, according to Chevrolet.

 

6. Ford Ranger

 

This mid-size truck caters to drivers who prefer a smaller yet capable pickup option without committing to a full-size model like the popular F-150s. 

The Ranger boasts a noteworthy ground clearance of 8.9 inches, providing confidence for off-road adventures. For even greater capability, the Tremor Off-Road Package offers additional clearance along with other all-terrain features such as magnetic-painted alloy wheels, a skid plate, and front and rear tow hooks.

You have a choice between two engines - the standard engine offers a 2.3-liter 4-cylinder, while an upgrade can get you a powerful 4.0-liter V6 engine and an impressive horsepower of 207. Its towing capacity of up to 7,500 pounds (3,400 kg) allows you to confidently haul your cargo, while the payload capacity reaches up to 1,650 pounds (748 kg), further proving that the Ranger can handle a variety of tasks with ease.

 

7. Honda Ridgeline

 

This mid-size truck may not be the most attention-grabbing contender in the market, but it definitely distinguishes itself with its remarkable durability and effectiveness, which are emblematic of vehicles from the esteemed Japanese auto giant.

Across all trims, the Ridgeline is equipped with a formidable 3.5-liter V6 engine, delivering a solid horsepower of 280. One notable feature of the 2022 model is its innovative storage options, offering a lockable in-bed trunk and a dual-action tailgate that provides convenient and secure storage solutions. Additionally, the Ridgeline boasts a power-sliding rear cabin window for added convenience.

While its towing capacity of 5,000 pounds (2,267 kg) might be lower compared to rivals like the Colorado and Ranger, the Ridgeline is still built to handle a variety of outings, be it for work or recreation. Its reliability and versatility make it a worthy choice for those seeking a dependable mid-size truck.

 

8. GMC Canyon

 

The 2023 GMC Canyon is undergoing a complete redesign with a focus on differentiation between models. It features a new 2.7L turbocharged four-cylinder engine shared with the 2023 Chevy Colorado. The outgoing engine options, including the 2.5L 4-cylinder, 3.6L V6, and Duramax 2.8L Turbo-Diesel, are replaced by the new engine. 

The Canyon stands out with its premium styling, highlighted by features like the Denali Black Edition. The redesigned interior showcases noticeable differences between trims, particularly in the AT4X and Denali models. The Canyon also offers impressive horsepower, with 310-hp at 5,600 RPM and towing capacity at 7,700 pounds for models like Elevation, AT4, and Denali, while payload capacities vary across trims.

Overall, the 2023 Canyon represents a significant change, combining performance, differentiation, and shared technology with the Chevy Colorado.

 

9. Ford Maverick

 

While not necessarily known for its stylish aesthetics, the Ford Maverick truly shines in one area - affordability. With a starting MSRP of $25,900, the Maverick stands out as the most budget-friendly option in the small truck market. This affordability is partially due to its smaller size, as it is more compact compared to its counterpart, the Ranger, and significantly smaller than the F-150.

However, this compactness offers advantages for drivers who prioritize easy parking and maneuverability. Additionally, for those concerned about fuel consumption, the Maverick offers a hybrid model. It combines a standard 2.5-liter engine with an electric motor, allowing you to decrease the frequency of costly trips to the gas station while contributing to a more fuel-efficient driving experience.

Despite its economical nature, the Maverick doesn't compromise on capabilities. It provides two engine options, including a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine and a hybrid variant, delivering a horsepower of 191. It boasts a towing capacity of up to 2,000 pounds (907 kg) and a payload capacity of 1,500 pounds (680 kg). The Ford Maverick presents an enticing choice for cost-conscious drivers seeking a practical and efficient truck option.

 

 10. Chevrolet Silverado 

 

Equipped with the optional 3.0L six-cylinder Duramax diesel engine and a 10-speed automatic transmission, the Silverado achieves an impressive 8.8 L/100 km combined (2021), making it one of Canada's most fuel-efficient pickups. With its 277 horsepower, and robust 460 lb-ft of torque, this truck can effortlessly tow up to 9,500 pounds. 

The Silverado offers multiple trim levels, allowing you to choose the one that suits your preferences and needs. Whether you prefer a rugged work truck or a more luxurious and feature-packed model, there's a Silverado trim level for you. It is designed to withstand tough conditions and is known for its long-lasting performance, making it a trusted companion for work and everyday driving.

In summary, the best pickup trucks to buy in 2023 offer a wide range of choices to suit various needs. From off-road prowess to versatility and affordability, these trucks provide options for every truck enthusiast. With features like powerful engines, impressive towing capacities, and innovative storage solutions, these trucks are ready to tackle any challenge while providing a reliable and enjoyable driving experience. Whether you're a weekend adventurer or in need of a practical work companion, these top contenders deliver on performance, style, and overall value.