Small trucks are having a moment in Canada. With full-size pickups continuing to balloon in physical size and price, more Canadians are taking a closer look at the compact and midsize segments, where they can still find genuine utility, reasonable fuel economy, and the kind of footprint that actually fits in a downtown parking spot. Whether they need a weekend hauler for trips to the cottage, a capable off-roader for backcountry exploration, or a daily driver that can occasionally tackle a Home Depot run, today's small truck market has more variety than ever.
From unibody compact pickups with hybrid powertrains to rugged body-on-frame midsizers built for serious work, the options below represent the best small trucks available in Canada right now. We've factored in expert reviews, owner feedback, and real-world pricing data to bring shoppers a ranked list that reflects what truly matters: capability, comfort, value, and owner satisfaction.
About this guide
The cars in this guide have been selected to represent the best options currently available. Our recommendations are the result of a unique three-part scoring system that takes into account real-world tests from our team of expert reviewers, ratings from real-life owners who live with these cars every day, and an analysis of market data from CarGurus to identify which models offer the highest percentage of good and great deals. This combined approach ensures our list highlights cars that are not only great to own but also good value to buy. For more information, scroll to the bottom of this page.
Best Small Trucks in Canada for 2026
CarGurus expert rating: 8.0 out of 10
CarGurus user rating: 4.7 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 28.4%
Overall CarGurus rating: 4.4 out of 5
| Pros |
Cons |
| Fun to drive |
On-pavement handling with all-terrain tires |
| Impressive technology |
Cramped back seat |
| Great warranty |
Not much cargo space |
The Hyundai Santa Cruz brings a refreshingly modern attitude to the small truck segment, and it's a smart pick for Canadians who want pickup utility without sacrificing crossover comfort. Built on the same platform as the Tucson, the Santa Cruz comes with a four-foot bed that includes a lockable in-floor trunk and an available retractable tonneau cover, ideal for protecting valuables from prying eyes and changing weather.
Power comes from a turbocharged 2.5-litre four-cylinder producing 281 hp and 311 pound-feet of torque, sent through all-wheel drive as standard equipment. That setup is good for confident year-round traction and a respectable amount of pep. Inside, the cabin is more SUV than truck, with a sleek panoramic display housing two 12.3-inch screens, wireless smartphone connectivity, and built-in navigation. Its compact dimensions also make city parking refreshingly painless.
The CarGurus Verdict: "Zippy, fun to drive, and equipped with tech you can't find in rivals, it's a good little sport truck if that's what you're after." - Christian Wardlaw, CarGurus contributor
Read our full Hyundai Santa Cruz review
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CarGurus expert rating: 7.7 out of 10
CarGurus user rating: 4.7 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 27.8%
Overall CarGurus rating: 4.3 out of 5
| Pros |
Cons |
| Comfortable |
Limited towing capacity for a midsize pickup |
| Great handling |
Outdated technology |
| Standard all-wheel drive |
|
The Honda Ridgeline takes a different path than most midsize pickups, and that approach pays real dividends for everyday drivers. Its unibody construction delivers car-like ride quality and surprisingly composed handling, while the 5'4" bed measures 127 centimetres between the wheel wells—wide enough to lay 4x8 sheets flat. A dual-action tailgate and a 207-litre lockable in-bed trunk round out a clever package that prioritizes practicality.
It's fitted with a smooth 3.5-litre V6 engine making 280 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque, mated to a nine-speed automatic and standard all-wheel drive—a welcome feature for Canadian winters. Towing capacity tops out at 2,268 kilograms (5,000 pounds), which won't suit heavy-duty haulers but covers most weekend warriors. The cabin is built with no-nonsense materials, sensible physical controls, and plenty of room for passengers and gear.
The CarGurus Verdict: "It doesn't offer the towing capacity or off-road capability of more traditional trucks, but the Ridgeline is much easier to live with." - Stephen Edelstein, CarGurus contributor
Read our full Honda Ridgeline review
CarGurus expert rating: 7.8 out of 10
CarGurus user rating: 4.5 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 29.0%
Overall CarGurus rating: 4.3 out of 5
| Pros |
Cons |
| Powerful V6 engine |
Low payload rating |
| Comfortable driver's seat |
Cramped back seat |
| Impressive Fender stereo |
Outdated technology |
While many rivals have downsized to turbo four-cylinders, the Nissan Frontier sticks with a tried-and-true 3.8-litre V6 engine that puts down 310 horsepower and 281 pound-feet of torque. Paired with a nine-speed automatic and standard four-wheel drive on Canadian models, the result is effortless acceleration and the kind of mechanical character that traditional truck buyers appreciate.
The Canadian Frontier lineup is streamlined to off-road-focused Pro-4X and Pro-4X Luxury trims, both of which come ready for adventure with Bilstein off-road shocks and an electronic locking rear differential. Buyers can choose between a 5-foot bed or, on the Luxury, an available 6-foot bed, each finished with a spray-on liner and the versatile Utili-track tie-down system. Maximum towing comes in at 3,240 kilograms (7,150 pounds), the seats are comfortable, and there's an impressive Fender audio system.
The CarGurus Verdict: "We like the Nissan Frontier despite its old-school nature. It feels solid, it's simple, it exudes quality, and it's reasonably fuel efficient." - Christian Wardlaw, CarGurus contributor
Read our full Nissan Frontier review
CarGurus expert rating: 6.8 out of 10
CarGurus user rating: 4.8 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 32.4%
Overall CarGurus rating: 4.3 out of 5
| Pros |
Cons |
| Top and doors come off |
Poor fuel economy |
| Fun to drive |
Uncompetitive towing/payload capacity |
| Impressive off-road |
Advanced safety features are not standard |
There is no midsize truck quite like the Jeep Gladiator. It marries the iconic open-air freedom and trail-conquering DNA of the Wrangler with a usable 5-foot steel cargo bed, creating a vehicle that's equally at home cresting a rocky climb or hauling firewood to the chalet. Removable doors and a removable top are unique party tricks, too.
Power comes from a 3.6-litre V6 making 285 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque, sent through an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard four-wheel drive. The Gladiator's specialized suspension is built to absorb rough trails and broken pavement, though that off-road bias means highway manners and fuel economy are not strong suits, and combined consumption is 12.3 L/100 km. Some advanced safety features aren't standard, either, whereas they are with rivals.
The CarGurus Verdict: "Unique among pickup trucks, the Jeep Gladiator is an appealing alternative to the status quo. That's especially true if you value open-air driving or plan to tackle untrodden territory." - Christian Wardlaw, CarGurus contributor
Read our full Jeep Gladiator review
CarGurus expert rating: 6.5 out of 10
CarGurus user rating: 4.5 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 30.4%
Overall CarGurus rating: 4.2 out of 5
| Pros |
Cons |
| Standard hybrid powertrain |
Price has crept up |
| Charming and functional interior |
Advanced safety features are not standard |
| Fun-to-drive Lobo model |
Excessive touchscreen controls |
The Ford Maverick continues to redefine what a compact pickup can be, and remains a strong choice for Canadian buyers who want real truck functionality without a full-size footprint—or a full-size fuel bill. Riding on a unibody platform, the Maverick offers up to 680 kilograms (1,500 pounds) of payload capacity and a tailgate that props at an angle to support 4x8 sheets of plywood.
Buyers can choose from two powertrains depending on their priorities. The standard hybrid combines a 2.5-litre four-cylinder with an electric motor for 191 horsepower and a frugal 6.2 L/100 km combined. The available turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder and offers 238 horsepower along with a max towing capacity of 1,814 kilograms (4,000 pounds) when the 4K Towing Package is added. New street-focused Lobo and off-road Tremor trims give the lineup added breadth, while a 13.2-inch touchscreen with standard wireless smartphone connectivity headlines the freshened cabin.
The CarGurus Verdict: "The Maverick remains practical, fuel efficient in hybrid form, and pleasant to drive. The Lobo is a worthy addition to the lineup for buyers willing to pay a little bit extra." - Stephen Edelstein, CarGurus contributor
Read our full Ford Maverick review
CarGurus expert rating: 6.2 out of 10
CarGurus user rating: 4.2 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 28.4%
Overall CarGurus rating: 4.2 out of 5
| Pros |
Cons |
| Stylish design |
Poor fuel economy |
| Fun to drive |
Interior materials feel cheap |
| Easy-to-use technology |
Poor ergonomic design |
The Chevrolet Colorado makes its case in the midsize segment with a simplified lineup and serious capability. Available exclusively in crew-cab, short-bed configuration, the Colorado ranges from the work-focused WT to the trail-ready ZR2, giving buyers a clear ladder of choices. Every model is powered by a turbocharged 2.7-litre four-cylinder making a stout 310 horsepower and 430 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission.
That powertrain unlocks a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 kilograms (7,700 pounds) and a payload rating of 837 kilograms (1,846 pounds), backing up the Colorado's truck-tough character. Tech is a high point, with an 11-inch digital driver display and an 11.3-inch touchscreen running Google built-in support wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Fuel economy isn't a strength at 11.1 L/100 km combined for rear-wheel-drive models, but the Colorado's authentic truck feel and off-road chops make it a compelling option.
The CarGurus Verdict: "In most ways, the Colorado is an impressive midsize truck. However, it plays runner-up to the Toyota Tacoma, which is not only more versatile and available with a wider range of dealer accessories but also trades on its legendary reputation for long-term reliability." - Christian Wardlaw, CarGurus contributor
Read our full Chevrolet Colorado review
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CarGurus expert rating: 7.0 out of 10
CarGurus user rating: 4.3 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 31.7%
Overall CarGurus rating: 4.2 out of 5
| Pros |
Cons |
| Stylish design |
Poor fuel economy |
| Fun to drive |
Cramped back seat |
| Impressive technology |
Poor value for money |
The GMC Canyon represents the more upscale and rugged take on GM's midsize truck platform. Available only as a crew-cab, short-bed model with standard four-wheel drive in Canada, it ranges from the well-equipped Elevation to the trail-conquering AT4X, which adds sophisticated Multimatic DSSV dampers and 27.2 centimetres of ground clearance. Maximum payload reaches 886 kilograms and towing tops out at 3,500 kilograms—respectable numbers for buyers who need to put their truck to work.
Under the hood is the same turbocharged 2.7-litre four-cylinder shared with the Colorado, producing 310 horsepower and 430 pound-feet of torque through an eight-speed automatic. Inside, the Canyon's cabin steps things up with premium materials and a tech suite that includes an 11-inch digital cluster, an 11.3-inch touchscreen with Google built-in, and wireless smartphone integration. Pricing pushes into premium territory, however, and back-seat space is tight for tall adults.
The CarGurus Verdict: "The GMC Canyon isn't a bargain, but it's an undeniably appealing truck. Good looks, a stout powertrain, user-friendly tech, and terrific off-road capability are the selling points." - Christian Wardlaw, CarGurus contributor
Read our full GMC Canyon review
FAQ
What is considered a small truck in Canada?
Small trucks generally fall into two categories: compact pickups such as the Ford Maverick and the Hyundai Santa Cruz, which are built on unibody platforms shared with crossover SUVs, and midsize pickups such as the Chevrolet Colorado, the GMC Canyon, the Toyota Tacoma, and the Nissan Frontier. Both groups are smaller, more maneuverable, and typically more fuel efficient than full-size trucks such as the Ford F-150 or the Ram 1500.
Which small truck has the best fuel economy?
The Ford Maverick hybrid leads the segment on efficiency, achieving a combined fuel consumption rating of about 6.2 L/100 km thanks to its standard hybrid powertrain. That makes it a strong choice for Canadian buyers who want truck utility without the fuel costs typically associated with a pickup.
Can a small truck tow a trailer?
Yes, although capacity varies widely. Compact unibody trucks such as the Ford Maverick can tow up to 1,814 kilograms (4,000 pounds) with the proper towing package, while the Hyundai Santa Cruz and Honda Ridgeline can handle around 2,268 kilograms (5,000 pounds). Midsize body-on-frame trucks such as the Chevrolet Colorado, GMC Canyon, and the Nissan Frontier can tow 3,200 to 3,500 kilograms (roughly 7,000 to 7,700 pounds), making them suitable for boats, ATVs, and small travel trailers.
Are small trucks good in Canadian winters?
Most small trucks offer either standard or available all-wheel drive or four-wheel drive, making them well-suited to snowy and icy conditions. Models such as the Honda Ridgeline and the Hyundai Santa Cruz come with all-wheel drive as standard, while the Nissan Frontier, the GMC Canyon, and the Jeep Gladiator include standard four-wheel drive on Canadian-market trims. Adding a good set of winter tires further improves traction and safety.
Which small truck is best for off-roading?
For serious off-road use, the Jeep Gladiator Rubicon, the Chevrolet Colorado ZR2, and the GMC Canyon AT4X stand out, with dedicated suspensions, locking differentials, and significant ground clearance. The Nissan Frontier Pro-4X is also a capable trail companion.
Should I buy a compact or midsize truck?
It depends on what it will be used for. Compact pickups such as the Ford Maverick and the Hyundai Santa Cruz are ideal for city dwellers who want occasional truck utility, easy parking, and better fuel economy. Midsize trucks such as the Colorado, the Canyon, and the Frontier are better suited to buyers who tow heavier loads, regularly haul cargo, or want serious off-road capability.
What Makes CarGurus Best Cars Guides Different?
Most car-buying websites publish lists of the best cars across a variety of categories, with recommendations driven primarily by editorial expertise. Here's what makes our best cars guides different: we combine the insights and verdicts of our team of car-testing experts with other factors that we know matter to buyers—real owner experiences and current market value.
Our expert reviewers come from some of North America and Canada's most trusted automotive publications, bringing hands-on experience testing vehicles. They put each car through its paces and create detailed reviews covering everything from form and function to performance and cost effectiveness.
But we don't stop there. We also analyze hundreds of thousands of used car listings on CarGurus.ca to track which models consistently offer the highest percentage of great deals relative to how many are listed for sale. Then we factor in user reviews and ratings gathered on CarGurus to hear from people who actually live with these cars every day. Our best cars algorithm combines expert ratings, user reviews, and the percentage of listings rated as good or great deals into a final Overall CarGurus Rating—a three-way approach that reveals not just which cars excel on paper, but which ones deliver real satisfaction and value when you're ready to buy.
*The CarGurus market data in this guide was last updated in June 2026. Values were accurate at time of publication and should be used as a guide only.*
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