How to Determine Small Truck Towing Capacity
You can determine small truck towing ability.
The Toyota Tacoma is the best-selling small pickup truck model.
Big pickup trucks such as the Ford F-150, Dodge Ram and Chevy Silverado are prized for their power and towing capacity while small trucks such as the Ford Ranger, Toyota Tacoma and Nissan Frontier deliver superior fuel economy. Yet, properly outfitted, small trucks can also tow everything from campers to small boats.
Compact Segment
Small trucks are defined as vehicles from compact to midsize. Models include the Toyota Tacoma, Nissan Frontier, Chevrolet Colorado, Ford Ranger and Dodge Dakota.
The Tacoma and now retired Dakota are clearly in the midsize truck range.
Truck Basics
Smaller trucks offer four- and six-cylinder engines and are available in two- and four-wheel drive. Some trucks offer an extended cab or lengthier bed as well.
Small trucks feature gas engines only; diesel engines are currently not available though that will change when the Mahindra TR20 and Mahindra TR40 are introduced to the U.S. market for the 2011 model year.
Towing Capacity
In the March 2010 issue of Truck Trend, maximum towing capacity for small pickup trucks was published. Towing capacity ranges from 5,600 pounds to 7,050 pounds depending on the make and model truck.
If fuel economy is an important consideration for you, then check out the small pickup truck guide published by the Environmental Protection Agency. Compare trucks by engine size, transmission offerings and 4×2 versus 4×4. The GMC Canyon and Chevrolet Colorado are twins as are the Nissan Frontier and Suzuki Equator.
Photos: Wikipedia public domain pictures
See Also — Speculation Abounds Regarding Ford Ranger Replacement
