The 5 Best Compact Trucks for Towing in the USA

Compact trucks are larger than they used to be, and many of them are great for towing.

These smaller trucks are also known as midsize trucks, and many of them have plenty of power under the hood. In fact, some of today’s compact trucks can tow more than 7,000 lbs.

This is good news for RVers. It means you don’t need a monster of a truck to tow a travel trailer.

What is a Compact Truck?

The term “compact truck” is a relative one used to describe the smallest trucks on the market. These days, there are two basic sizes of trucks, full-size and mid-size, and compact is another term for a mid-size truck.

That wasn’t always the case, however. Originally, compact trucks were a lot smaller than other kinds of trucks. They came along in the 1970s when there was a demand for small vehicles with better gas mileage.

They are not as big or powerful as full-size trucks, but they have a few advantages. For instance, they handle easily, get good mileage and can fit into tight spaces.

5 Best Compact Trucks for Towing

1. Ford Ranger

MSRP: Starting at $28,000
Towing Capacity: 7,500 lbs

The Ford Ranger consistently ranks as one of the best compact trucks for towing. Its 2.3-liter turbocharged EcoBoost engine cranks out 270 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque, allowing it to handle up to 7,500 pounds of towing capacity when equipped with the towing package.

Add in excellent fuel efficiency for its class, and you’ve got a versatile, powerful truck that performs both on the highway and off-road.

Bang for Your Buck:
With one of the highest towing capacities in the compact truck category and a starting price under $30,000, the Ford Ranger gives you excellent value without breaking the bank. It’s a solid investment for towing enthusiasts who need a reliable truck that doesn’t compromise on fuel economy.

2. Chevrolet Colorado

MSRP: Starting at $29,000
Towing Capacity: 7,700 lbs

The Chevy Colorado boasts impressive towing power thanks to its 2.8-liter Duramax turbo-diesel engine. If you opt for the diesel version, the towing capacity jumps to an outstanding 7,700 pounds.

Even the gas-powered model still delivers respectable towing, making it a popular choice among those needing both towing power and everyday drivability.

Bang for Your Buck:
The diesel engine upgrade is what makes the Colorado a towing powerhouse. For those looking for serious towing power without stepping into the full-size truck category, the Colorado is worth every penny—especially when you need a workhorse that can handle heavy loads.

3. Jeep Gladiator

MSRP: Starting at $38,000
Towing Capacity: 7,650 lbs

The Jeep Gladiator is not only a towing champ but also an off-road beast. With a 3.6-liter V6 engine, the Gladiator can tow up to 7,650 pounds, making it more than capable of handling trailers, boats, and even lightweight RVs.

Plus, it comes with the iconic Jeep versatility, so when you’re not towing, you can take it off the beaten path with ease.

Bang for Your Buck:
While the Gladiator comes with a slightly higher price tag, it’s packed with capability and flexibility. You’re essentially getting two vehicles in one—a serious towing machine and an off-road adventurer. If you’re looking for a truck that offers the most versatility for the money, this is it.

4. Toyota Tacoma

MSRP: Starting at $29,400
Towing Capacity: 6,800 lbs

The Toyota Tacoma has long been a favorite in the compact truck world. Its 3.5-liter V6 engine offers a towing capacity of up to 6,800 pounds, making it a reliable option for towing boats, trailers, and more. Known for its durability, the Tacoma’s build quality and reputation for longevity make it a trusted choice for those who tow frequently.

Bang for Your Buck:
The Tacoma may not have the highest towing capacity on this list, but its legendary reliability means it holds its value well over time.

The combination of good towing power and resale value makes it a smart financial choice for those in it for the long haul.

5. Honda Ridgeline

MSRP: Starting at $39,000
Towing Capacity: 5,000 lbs

The Honda Ridgeline may not have the highest towing capacity, but it stands out for its comfort, car-like ride, and innovative features like its dual-action tailgate and in-bed trunk.

The Ridgeline is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine, offering a solid 5,000 pounds of towing capacity, making it ideal for towing smaller trailers and campers.

Bang for Your Buck:
While the towing capacity is slightly lower than its competitors, the Ridgeline excels in versatility and everyday driving comfort. If you’re looking for a truck that can tow decently while doubling as a daily driver with luxury features, the Ridgeline offers great value in that regard.

Bang for Your Buck: Which Compact Truck Should You Choose for Towing?

When it comes to getting the best bang for your buck, it’s all about finding the right balance between towing capacity, price, and versatility. Here’s a quick rundown:

Best Overall Towing Power: The Chevrolet Colorado takes the crown with a max towing capacity of 7,700 pounds. If towing heavy loads is your top priority, the diesel version is worth the investment.
Most Versatile Truck: The Jeep Gladiator offers not only great towing power (7,650 lbs) but also unbeatable off-road capabilities. It’s the go-to for adventurers who need both.
Best Value for Everyday Use: The Ford Ranger combines solid towing power (7,500 lbs) with a more affordable starting price, making it the best all-around compact truck for towing on a budget.

No matter which truck you choose, these compact options are all towing champs in their own right. Now it’s just a matter of finding the one that suits your towing needs and budget best.