Hooniverse Asks: Which truck models should return?

I think your classification of the current Colorado/Ranger/Tacoma as “small/mid” is incorrect. These are absolutely midsize trucks, and closer in dimensions to full than compact size. The discontinued true compact pickups were considerably smaller and cheaper.

Comparing a 2011 Ranger, 2019 Ranger, and 2019 F150 (all 2WD XLT supercabs, base engines, and 6′-6.5′ beds), here are the percentage comparisons of the Rangers to the F150:

Measurement: Ranger 2011 / Ranger 2019 (vs F150)
Bed volume: 60% / 83%
Bed width: 83% / 94%
Bed width between wheel wells: 80% / 89%
Overall length: 88% / 91%
Curb weight: 72% / 94%
Payload: 73% / 95%
Price: 59% / 74% (2011 adjusted to 2019 dollars)

So, depending on how you choose to compare them, the compact truck is between 60-88% of the full-sized truck for 59% of the cost. The mid-sizer is between 83-95% of the full-sized truck for 74% of the cost. Those are both relatively excellent deals.

Now, I can’t argue with your 4’x8′ statement, but dimensions never prevented me from hauling plywood in my short box ’97 Ranger (I just tipped it on its side, and rarely got more than a dozen sheets at a time anyway). Nor can I completely fault your mpg argument. However, the 2011 Ranger I compared here weighs nearly 1000 lbs less than the 2019 Ranger and a new compact could use the same engine to pull less weight or use a thriftier engine to begin with. Either might net mpg gains.

Regardless, there is a market for a true compact pickup that doesn’t involve hauling lumber or riding lawn mowers. When my kids are out of the house, I would happily use a compact pickup as a daily driver, one that could also haul things that I would be reluctant to stuff into the trunk of a car or the hatch of an SUV or minivan.

Bring back the Courier!