2022 Best Midsize Trucks: Featuring Santa Cruz vs Maverick

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More car buyers are purchasing midsize pickup trucks than ever before. Why? The versatility of midsize trucks makes them an excellent option for any buyer. The best midsize trucks are durable, multi-functional, and fuel-efficient. You can take them off-road, commute to work, and tow heavy loads, all in one! but with so many makes and models to choose from, how do you know which option is best for you? 

To help you navigate we have put together a complete guide on the 2022 midsize truck lineup, including a comparison of the new 2022 Hyundai Santa Cruz vs Ford Maverick. Are you still interested? Keep reading to find out more about the best midsize truck on the market. 

Best Midsize Trucks

New pickup trucks have hit the market in 2022, and upgrades in technology have redesigned many models. This year’s lineup is stacked by combining ruggedness with economically friendly and fuel-efficient designs. 

Some of the top midsize pickup trucks include:

Nissan Frontier

Hyundai Santa Cruz

Ford Maverick

Ford Ranger

Toyota Tacoma

Jeep Gladiator

GMC Canyon

Chevy Colorado

Honda Ridgeline

Ultimately, a midsize truck should be lighter and more fuel-efficient than a full-sized truck. This can be a tall order for many brands without sacrificing towing capacity and power. 

Do you want the performance of a midsize or full-size truck with the price tag of a new 2022 model? Used trucks can help you find the car of your dreams. However, forking out a few more dollars may pay dividends in the long run.  

2022 Hyundai Santa Cruz vs 2022 Ford Maverick

This year’s lineup of the best midsize pickup trucks includes the popular comparison of the 2022 Hyundai Santa Cruz vs 2022 For Maverick. These two midsize trucks feature a similarly unique design as well as a few stand out features we haven’t seen before. If you like the unique styles of these trucks, see how they differ to choose the right one for you.

2022 Hyundai Santa Cruz

One thing about the Santa Cruz is its distinct appearance. The Santa Cruz sticks out with a unique design similar to Honda and Jeep models. The sleek interior features high-quality materials while the exterior comes equipped with a unique roll-up tonneau cover that locks. While the Santa Cruz prides itself on interior design and luxury, it doesn’t have any knobs which has been a frustration for many drivers. 

The Santa Cruz does offer great fuel efficiency at 27 mpg on the highway and a spacious interior. Where the Santa Cruz lacks is in its lower performing standard engine. Drivers can upgrade to the turbo engine but at a significantly higher price.

2022 Ford Maverick

One of the distinguishing characteristics of the Ford Maverick is its hybrid option. While buyers can select a non-hybrid option, the hybrid set-up includes a 2.5 L 4-cylinder engine, electric motor, and continuously variable automatic transmission. 

However, the smaller cab and engine of the Ford Maverick could deter some buyers who want a midsize truck with more power and better towing capacity. 

Starting price for the Ford Maverick is $19,995 which comes off as very affordable for a midsize truck, however the higher trims are significantly more expensive.  

2022 Nissan Frontier

The classic truck exterior appeal of the Nissan Frontier appeals to many midsize truck buyers. One of the bigger complaints with older models was the short cab, and Nissan paid attention. 

A more extended cab and updated curb appeal make it a much more competitive option on the market. What else does the new 2022 Nissan include?

  • Smooth interior design
  • 6,720-pound towing capacity
  • 3.8L V-6 engine
  • 310 hp
  • 23 to 24 mg/highway
  • 9-speed transmission

Starting at around $29,000, the Nissan Frontier is reasonably priced and doesn’t disappoint on performance. With 281 pound-feet torque, the Nissan Frontier also offers rear-wheel drive or four-wheel drive options. 

2022 Ford Ranger

One of the most fuel-efficient midsize trucks is the 2022 Ford Ranger. It also boasts a decent towing capacity and a rugged design that appeals to buyers wanting an edgy truck design. 

It sports a turbocharged, 4-cylinder engine, although some might still prefer 6-cylinder capacities. However, users report that the ride seems bumpy, and the interior drags a bit. 

The V6 on the Ranger puts out 260 horsepower and fuel efficiency comes in at 26 mpg on the highway, making it a great choice for fuel efficient trucks.

2022 Toyota Tacoma

The Toyota Tacoma has long since been a fan-favorite due to Toyota’s reliability and the rugged appearance the Tacoma encompasses. The 2022 model includes better safety upgrades, off-road performance, and manual transmission options. 

If you want the aesthetics of a Tacoma, you can’t go wrong with the new model, but it does lag behind competitors when it comes to engine specs, refinement, and interior seating.

The 2022 Tacoma boasts a 278 horsepower engine but sacrifices more in fuel efficiency at 20 to 23 mpg at highway speeds. 

2022 Jeep Gladiator

You probably weren’t expecting Jeep to make a midsize truck list that has long been dominated by Nissan, Ford, Toyota, Chevy, and GMC. However, the new 2022 Jeep Gladiator offers a unique appearance and performance for midsize trucks. 

It looks oddly familiar to the Jeep Wrangler but offers a truck bed. Similar to the Wrangler, the doors and roof are detachable, giving it that Jeep appeal. 

Unfortunately, if you are looking for an affordable midsize truck, this may not be the choice for you. Additionally, if you like the traditional look of a truck, you may not like the exterior design of the Jeep Gladiator. 

2022 GMC Canyon

The new GMC Canyon has become closely tied with luxury trucks. The GMC canyon includes:

  • Fog Lights
  • Aluminum wheels
  • Chrome grille
  • Leather seats

However, it closely resembles the Chevy Colorado and does not offer a new take on specs or performance. Ultimately, if you want the feel of luxury and like the aesthetics of the Canyon, you likely won’t be disappointed. 

It doesn’t offer many safety features like the Toyota Tacoma and other popular models, however, it’s luxury features are something to boast about.

2022 Chevy Colorado

Like the Canyon, the Chevy Colorado has many of the same features. Some might find the backseat cramped, and the V-6 lacks the torque other options have. 

Yet, it has a much more affordable price tag and boasts an impressive 7,700-pound towing capacity. 

2022 Honda Ridgeline

Honda is another brand that snuck its way into the hot market. Honda underwent significant upgrades when it came to its midsize truck. 

It doesn’t appear as rugged or boxy as other options and gives off more SUV appeal. 

Additionally, it handles similarly to an SUV and doesn’t have near the towing capacity that other models offer. If you want quiet, simple, and refined handling, you might find the Ridgeline up your alley. 

Keep in mind – the higher midsize truck price tag can make the 280 horsepower and a 5,000-pound towing capacity not seem as appealing. 

Your Next Midsize Truck

Do you want a new truck? The best midsize trucks are the perfect blend of comfort, ruggedness, and power. 

At Patterson Truck Stop we have an extensive selection of new and used midsize trucks of all makes and models. 

Are you interested? Check out our lineup today!

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