Choosing the right vehicle for overlanding is a crucial decision, and while there’s no single “best” for everyone, the midsize truck category offers a sweet spot for many adventurers. These trucks balance capability, maneuverability, and efficiency, making them excellent platforms for building your dream overlanding rig.
When selecting a truck for overlanding, several factors come into play. Payload capacity dictates how much gear you can bring, fuel economy impacts your range, and power output ensures you can tackle challenging terrains. Size and footprint are important for navigating trails, while drivability and reliability are paramount for long journeys in remote locations. Affordability, of course, is always a consideration.
In this guide, we’ll dive deep into the Best Midsize Trucks for overlanding, highlighting top contenders and explaining why they stand out. While personal preferences, budget, and intended use ultimately dictate your final choice, understanding the strengths of each model will empower you to make an informed decision.
Top Midsize Pickup Trucks for Overlanding
1. Ford Ranger (Fifth Generation, 2019-Present)
The fifth-generation Ford Ranger consistently earns high marks as a top midsize pickup for overlanding, and for good reason. It outperforms many competitors in key areas, making it a compelling choice for adventurers.
Fifth-Gen Ford Ranger with ARB BASE Rack, demonstrating its suitability for overlanding gear.
One of the Ranger’s significant advantages is its impressive payload capacity, ranging from 1,609 to 1,905 pounds. Comparing it to others in the segment reveals its leadership:
- Toyota Tacoma (Third-Gen): 1,050 to 1,685 lbs (TRD Pro: 1,135 lbs)
- Chevrolet Colorado (Second-Gen): 1,270 to 1,560 lbs
- Nissan Frontier: 1,296 to 1,708 lbs
- Jeep Gladiator: 1,080 to 1,200 lbs
- Honda Ridgeline: 1,509 to 1,583 lbs
This superior payload is crucial when you’re loading up with camping gear, recovery equipment, water, and supplies for extended overlanding trips. The Ranger’s robust, fully boxed frame further contributes to its strength and durability, a feature absent in the Tacoma. Its relatively compact size within the midsize category also enhances maneuverability on narrow trails.
The Ranger’s 2.3-liter EcoBoost turbocharged four-cylinder engine is another standout feature. Producing 270 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque, it surpasses the Tacoma’s 3.5-liter V6 in torque (265 lb-ft) while offering comparable horsepower (278 hp). Paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission (compared to Tacoma’s six-speed), the Ranger delivers responsive power and efficient performance.
While the Toyota Tacoma boasts a larger aftermarket for overlanding gear in some regions, the Ranger benefits from significant international support due to its global presence since 2011. Companies like ARB offer a wide range of high-quality overlanding accessories specifically designed for the Ranger.
For those seeking a capable and well-rounded midsize truck for overlanding, the Ford Ranger stands out as a top choice. Experiencing its performance firsthand is highly recommended before making a decision.
Ford Ranger navigating a trail, demonstrating its compact size and off-road prowess.
2. Chevrolet Colorado (Second Generation, 2014-2022)
The second-generation Chevrolet Colorado secures the second spot as a strong contender in the midsize overlanding truck category. Its diverse powertrain options and versatile configurations make it a worthwhile consideration.
2022 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 showcasing its aggressive stance and off-road enhancements.
A key advantage of the second-gen Colorado is the availability of different cab and bed lengths. The four-door, long-bed configuration is particularly appealing for overlanders, offering a spacious interior and a six-foot bed, approaching the storage capacity of some full-size trucks while maintaining a more trail-friendly width.
For enhanced off-road capability, the ZR2 trim is highly desirable, featuring front and rear locking differentials. While the four-door long-bed configuration doesn’t offer locking differentials outside of the ZR2 trim, the ZR2 itself is available in both four-door five-foot bed and extra cab six-foot bed configurations.
The Colorado also stands out with its engine options, including a diesel variant. While the diesel offers increased torque, the real-world benefits for overlanding, such as fuel economy and towing capacity, may not justify the higher purchase price and maintenance costs compared to the gasoline versions. The 3.6-liter V6 gasoline engine, producing 308 horsepower and 275 lb-ft of torque paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, is a robust and reliable choice for overlanding, offering a balance of power and dependability.
Although the aftermarket support for the Colorado may not be as extensive as the Tacoma’s, reputable brands like CBI offer excellent armor and accessories, enabling you to build a highly capable Colorado for overlanding adventures.
2022 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 conquering a desert terrain, demonstrating its off-road prowess.
3. Jeep Gladiator JT (Second Generation, 2018-Present)
The Jeep Gladiator earns its place on this list due to its exceptional off-road prowess and distinctive open-air driving experience. While it may have some compromises in on-road comfort and interior space, its capability is undeniable.
Jeep Gladiator tackling a challenging rocky trail, showcasing its off-road articulation and solid front axle.
Sharing many components with the Jeep Wrangler JL, the Gladiator benefits from a vast aftermarket support network, offering virtually limitless customization options for overlanding builds. Its solid front axle, disconnectable anti-sway bar, and available soft or removable hardtop contribute to its unique off-road character.
The Gladiator’s on-road manners are less refined than some competitors, and its interior can feel cramped compared to other midsize trucks. However, its off-road capability is unmatched in the segment. The Pentastar V6 engine, producing 285 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, provides adequate power for both on and off-road driving.
For overlanders prioritizing ultimate off-road capability and the iconic Jeep experience, the Gladiator is a compelling choice. Its blend of truck utility and Jeep DNA makes it a unique and fun platform for adventure.
Key Considerations for Choosing a Midsize Overlanding Truck
Beyond specific models, understanding the core attributes of a good overlanding rig is essential. When evaluating midsize trucks, focus on these critical factors:
Payload Capacity
Payload capacity is paramount for overlanding. It dictates the weight your truck can safely carry, including passengers, cargo, and aftermarket modifications. Overlanding gear adds up quickly, so a higher payload capacity provides greater flexibility and safety. Remember to factor in the weight of everything you plan to add to your truck, from roof racks and tents to recovery gear and water tanks.
Ford Ranger bed packed with overlanding equipment, illustrating the necessity of ample payload capacity for extended trips.
Fuel Economy and Range
Fuel economy directly impacts your overlanding range and overall trip costs. While power is important, efficiency becomes crucial on long journeys in remote areas where fuel stops may be scarce. Consider both the truck’s MPG and fuel tank capacity to estimate its range. For extended expeditions, explore options for carrying auxiliary fuel tanks or jerry cans to extend your reach.
Size and Maneuverability
Midsize trucks offer a good balance between cargo capacity and maneuverability. Their smaller footprint compared to full-size trucks can be advantageous on narrow trails and in tight campsites. However, consider your typical overlanding environments. If you frequently encounter heavily wooded trails, a more compact midsize truck might be preferable. If you prioritize interior space and cargo volume, a larger midsize or even a full-size truck might be more suitable.
Drivability and Comfort
Overlanding often involves long highway drives to reach trails and explore different regions. Therefore, on-road drivability and comfort are crucial. Independent front suspension (IFS) generally provides a smoother ride on paved roads compared to solid front axles, which are often favored for extreme off-road articulation. Consider your balance of on-road and off-road driving when evaluating suspension types. Tire choice also significantly impacts both on-road comfort and off-road performance. All-terrain (A/T) tires offer a good compromise for most overlanding scenarios, while mud-terrain (M/T) tires prioritize off-road traction but can be noisier and less comfortable on the highway.
Off-Road Capability
Essential off-road features for overlanding trucks include four-wheel drive (4WD), good ground clearance, and adequate approach, departure, and breakover angles. Locking differentials can significantly enhance traction in challenging terrain. Consider trims and packages that offer these features, such as the Ford Ranger FX4 package or the Chevrolet Colorado ZR2. However, remember that driver skill and experience are often more critical than extreme factory capabilities. Investing in off-road driving training can be as valuable as expensive modifications.
Reliability and Parts Availability
Reliability is paramount for overlanding vehicles. Breakdowns in remote locations can be challenging and potentially dangerous. Research the reliability ratings of different midsize trucks and consider brands known for their durability. Parts availability is also a factor. American-made trucks generally have widespread parts availability in North America, while parts for imported vehicles might be less readily accessible, especially in remote areas. Regardless of your truck choice, carrying essential spare parts and tools and knowing basic vehicle maintenance is highly recommended for overlanding.
Affordability and Budget
Your budget will inevitably influence your midsize truck choice and overlanding build. Consider not only the purchase price of the truck but also the cost of necessary modifications, maintenance, fuel, and insurance. Overlanding can be enjoyed at various budget levels. Starting with a reliable base vehicle and gradually upgrading components as needed is a practical approach for many. Used midsize trucks can also be excellent and more affordable options for overlanding, allowing you to allocate more funds to modifications and gear.
Conclusion
Selecting the best midsize truck for overlanding depends on your individual needs and priorities. The Ford Ranger, Chevrolet Colorado, and Jeep Gladiator each offer unique strengths and cater to different overlanding styles. By carefully considering payload capacity, fuel economy, size, drivability, off-road capability, reliability, and affordability, you can narrow down your choices and select the ideal midsize truck to embark on your overlanding adventures. Remember to prioritize user experience and ensure your chosen truck meets your specific requirements for both on and off-road travel.
