The 2019 Honda Ridgeline emerged as the unexpected winner in our first-ever Mid-Size Truck Challenge, proving that a comfortable, car-like driving experience and innovative features can outweigh traditional "truckiness" for personal use. In a rigorous test pitting the returning Ford Ranger and new Jeep Gladiator against the established GMC Canyon and Honda Ridgeline, our judges scored 19 categories—from acceleration and towing to cabin comfort and value. The results reveal a clear winner for shoppers prioritizing daily drivability, but the best choice ultimately depends on your specific needs.
How Did We Determine the Best Mid-Size Truck?
Our methodology was designed to evaluate these trucks as the versatile tools they are meant to be. We scored each vehicle on 19 separate categories, combining objective instrumented testing—like 0-100 km/h (0-60 mph) acceleration and braking distances—with subjective judgments on elements like ride quality and interior comfort. Crucially, we tested each truck both empty and loaded with 1,000 pounds of payload to simulate real-world use. Scores were not based on exterior styling or image, focusing instead on measurable performance and day-to-day livability.
#4: 2019 GMC Canyon Denali – Stiff Ride and Dated Tech
The GMC Canyon finished last, feeling outclassed by newer competitors with its stiff ride, numb brake pedal, and lack of advanced safety features. As the oldest design in the test, the Canyon struggled to keep pace.
- The Good: The Canyon posted strong numbers on the drag strip, with quick acceleration times and the shortest braking distances when unloaded. Its cabin was quiet, and the 8-inch touchscreen was praised for its quick response.
- The Bad: The powertrain, a 3.6-liter V-6, felt bogged down in daily driving despite its strong acceleration times. The ride was unforgiving, the interior quality was subpar for the Denali trim level, and it notably lacked push-button start and power seat adjustments—unacceptable on a truck priced at $45,775.
#3: 2020 Jeep Gladiator Overland – Fun but Flawed
The Jeep Gladiator offers unique open-air capability and a premium interior but comes with a steep price tag and significant on-road compromises. Its character is undeniable, but its weaknesses are hard to ignore for $55,840.
- The Good: The Gladiator boasts a high-quality, rugged interior, an excellent user interface, and the best brake pedal feel. Its long wheelbase contributes to a comfortable ride, and its ability to remove the roof and doors is a class-exclusive feature.
- The Bad: It had the slowest acceleration times and the worst handling score, with vague steering that required constant correction. The cabin is tight, in-cabin storage is minimal, and its maximum payload rating of 1,020 pounds is the lowest in the test.
#2: 2019 Ford Ranger Lariat – A Powertrain Powerhouse
The Ford Ranger’s turbocharged engine and 10-speed transmission deliver superb performance and efficiency, though an aging interior and tight rear seat hold it back. It’s the enthusiast's choice for driving dynamics.
- The Good: The Ranger’s 2.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine provides the best acceleration, both loaded and unloaded, and it achieved the highest observed fuel economy at 23.7 mpg. It also won top marks for its sharp handling and has the highest maximum tow rating of 7,500 pounds.
- The Bad: The brakes felt mushy under load, and the stopping distance increased significantly. The rear seat is cramped and lacks air vents, and the interior design feels dated compared to newer rivals.
#1: 2019 Honda Ridgeline RTL-E – The Surprising All-Rounder
The Honda Ridgeline won by mastering the fundamentals of daily driving, offering a serene cabin, exceptional comfort, and clever features that enhance usability. It redefines what a mid-size truck can be for non-commercial buyers.
- The Good: The Ridgeline’s unibody construction pays off with a ride quality that rivals a comfortable SUV. It has the most user-friendly and innovative cargo bed, complete with a lockable, drainable trunk and unique bed-mounted audio speakers. It also came equipped with the most comprehensive suite of standard safety features and represents the best value at $42,965.
- The Bad: The multimedia system is frustrating to use, and the powertrain feels noticeably strained when carrying a full payload. Its maximum tow rating is limited to 5,000 pounds, making it less suitable for frequent heavy towing.
So, Which Mid-Size Truck Should You Choose?
Based on our assessment, your ideal truck depends on your priorities:
- Choose the Honda Ridgeline if your top priorities are daily comfort, family-friendly features, and innovative cargo solutions. It’s the best choice for those who only occasionally need truck capabilities.
- Choose the Ford Ranger if you value performance, high towing capacity, and fuel economy above all else. It’s the sports car of the group.
- Choose the Jeep Gladiator if open-air fun and extreme off-road capability are non-negotiable, and you’re willing to accept on-road compromises and a high price.
- Choose the GMC Canyon if you find a significant discount on a remaining model, but be prepared for a dated experience compared to the competition.
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