2020 was a pretty big year for midsize trucks. The Nissan Frontier got a new standard V6, the Toyota Tacoma finally got a more modern infotainment system, and the Jeep Gladiator arrived on the scene. For 2021, there are some modest updates to almost every truck in this class including fresh faces, new option packages, and one new diesel option.
Here’s what’s new in midsize pickups for 2021.
Noteworthy changes
2021 Honda Ridgeline
Starting price: $ 37,665 | Rating 4.3 / 5
The Honda HMC, +0.11% Ridgeline gets a thorough mid-cycle refresh for the 2021 model year. Mechanically, it’s still the same unibody V6-powered midsize pickup, but all-wheel drive is now standard. What’s different is its look, which is decidedly more trucklike and less minivan-like than before. It also has an updated infotainment system (with a volume knob!) and a rugged available HPD (Honda Performance Development) appearance package.
2021 Chevrolet Colorado
Starting price: $ 28,295 | Rating 4.1 / 5
The Chevrolet Colorado gets an updated look for the 2021 model year. Its new appearance is a little more in line with the bigger Silverado line while still retaining its own distinct look. The most significant aesthetic change comes to the aggressive, off-road-ready ZR2 model which looks meaner than ever before.
2021 GMC Canyon
Starting Price: $ 29,495 | Rating 4.2 / 5
The midsize GMC Canyon gets a fresh face for 2021 that makes it a better fit with the current design language of the brand. It still looks classier than its mechanical twin — the Chevy Colorado — especially in the ritzy Denali trim. Also, an AT4 model has been introduced for the Canyon, which adds beefy tires, an off-road-tuned suspension, an electronic limited-slip rear differential, and an off-road appearance package with a skid plate.
2021 Jeep Gladiator
Starting price: $ 35,060 | Rating 4 / 5
The latest generation of the EcoDiesel V-6 engine has been spreading through the FCA lineup of trucks and SUVs and it has now made its way to the Jeep Gladiator. This diesel makes the Gladiator the most efficient midsize pickup on the market while retaining standard four-wheel drive and a spacious four-door cab. In the Gladiator, this engine produces 442 lb-ft of torque. Also, 80th Anniversary and Willys packages join the lineup.
Also see: Everything you need to know about full-size trucks
Minor changes
2021 Ford Ranger
Starting price: $ 28,415 | Rating 4.4 / 5
The Ford F, +2.85% Ranger adds a couple of new option packages for 2021. There’s the Tremor Off-Road Package that can be added to the 4×4 variants of the XLT and Lariat trims. This adds a lifted suspension with Fox components, all-terrain tires, and a six-switch auxiliary power pack for managing off-road accessories like light bars and winches. There’s also a Black Package for XLT and Lariat which adds black exterior trim and black 18-inch wheels.
2021 Toyota Tacoma
Starting price: $ 28,155 | Rating 4.6 / 5
After some big changes in 2020 like a thoroughly updated infotainment system, the Toyota TM, -0.08% Tacoma gets some small changes for 2021. Dual-zone climate control now comes standard on every V6-powered Tacoma. Also, there’s a new Trail Edition based on the SR5 Double Cab Tacoma, which adds 16-inch TRD wheels, special interior trim, and lockable built-in bins in the bed. There’s also a new Nightshade model based on the fancy Limited Double Cab adding a blacked-out appearance package.
No changes
2020 Nissan Frontier
Starting price: $ 28,995 | Rating 3.7 / 5
It looks like the long-in-the-tooth Nissan Frontier will skip the 2021 model year. We’re expecting an overdue new generation of the midsize Nissan NSANY, +0.63% pickup to be unveiled sometime in 2021 as a 2022 model. Meanwhile, the 2020 Frontier serves as an affordable V6-powered midsize truck for anyone who needs a workhorse on a budget.
This story originally ran on KBB.com.