As you're traveling around the Raleigh-Durham-Chapel Hill area, you're probably passing by quite a few midsize trucks. Midsize trucks are outstanding choices for many different travelers. They're efficient daily commuters and capable work companions, and many don't back down when it comes to off-road adventure. When it comes to versatility, practicality, and capability, these trucks check all these boxes on your pickup truck wishlist. At Hendrick Automotive Group, we're proud to showcase an extraordinary selection of midsize trucks at our various dealerships, and as your top truck dealership near Raleigh, we want to help you find the truck that meets your needs. Here are some of our favorite midsize truck models that we believe will meet, if not exceed, your expectations for a new truck.
Chevy Colorado: Ready for Anything
Can you name a more versatile truck than the Colorado? From a dutiful workmate to a seasoned explorer, the Colorado can do just about anything you throw it at. It showcases an outstanding array of powertrains, impressive off-road capabilities, and plenty of trims to choose from to help you create the ultimate experience on board. From a no-nonsense work truck to a fully loaded off-road adventurer, the Colorado arsenal appeals to a multitude of Raleigh travelers, and with a maximum towing capacity of 7,700 lbs, handling anything from a boat trailer to a load of work materials is no sweat for this Chevy winner.
Everyday commuters are also drawn to the 2024 Colorado, with its 2.7L turbocharged four-cylinder able to get up to 24 MPG on the highway. Opt for the new ZR2 Bison model to enjoy ultimate off-roading potential, with 35-inch mud-terrain tires—the largest in its class—and best-in-class ground clearance of 12.2 inches, with class-leading under-body protection to add more confidence to your time off the pavement. The Chevy Colorado is the most awarded midsize pickup of 2024, and when you want to enjoy optimal capabilities, no matter what challenge you're taking on next, this truck is a solid choice.
GMC Canyon: Luxuriously Capable
When you want to cruise past Holladay Hall in absolute style, you may be drawn to a luxury option like the GMC Canyon. Not only does the Canyon offer the same capabilities and versatility you'll find in the Colorado, but it also showcases an alluring style that can't be replicated. This is especially true when you opt for the Denali trim, which features premium elements to enhance the quality of your drive like you never imagined. From perforated leather-appointed seating and open-pore wood trim to a first-in-class multicolor head-up display and an 11.3-inch center touchscreen, the Canyon Denali is simply exquisite.
For those who yearn to get out into nature, you'll want to look closely at the AT4 and AT4X models. Features like an off-road-tuned suspension system, selectable front and rear e-locking differentials, and Multimatic DSSV dampers make the Canyon a worthy option for experienced off-roaders. It's easy on the eyes, capable, and ready to help North Carolina travelers complete the most demanding challenges, whether the ground beneath them is gravel, mud, dirt, or anything in between.
Jeep Gladiator: Unbridled Exhilaration
There are pickup trucks designed to work, and then there are pickup trucks designed to play. The Gladiator can do both, with a powerful engine capable of towing up to 7,700 lbs and legendary off-road capabilities that could only be found in a Jeep. With Wrangler style attached to a pickup truck bed, the Gladiator is ideal for those who seek out their fair share of thrills both on the road and off. The ground clearance is 11.6 inches, which allows you to roll over obstacles with certainty, and with iconic adventuring capabilities, you can expect a one-of-a-kind experience in the wilderness.
From Trail Rated and Desert Rated off-road capabilities to impeccable articulation, water-fording abilities, and traction control, there's nowhere the Gladiator can't travel throughout Wake County and beyond. Front and rear Tru-Lok electronic locking differentials allow you to tackle dangerous terrain with agility, while rock rails and skid plates provide the protection you're looking for when the environment turns treacherous. Segment-exclusive heavy-duty Dana 44 axles provide exceptional strength and durability to your ride, and with a multitude of tech designed for the trails, the Gladiator is the ideal explorer when you're looking to discover uncharted territories in the Greater Raleigh area.
Nissan Frontier: Rugged Good Looks, Exceptional Value
If you're in the market for a reasonably-priced truck that's rugged, practical, and good at every task it takes on, the Frontier is hard to beat. Its 3.8L V6 can easily complete tasks on the construction site, allowing it to tow up to 6,640 lbs and offer a payload capacity of 1,620 lbs. There are plenty of trims to choose from in the Frontier's inventory, from everyday travelers to off-road-ready explorers. The Frontier PRO-4X, in particular, will appeal to those seeking to go off the grid for some time in the woods, offering Bilstein off-road performance shocks and vibrant red accents to excite your journey.
With a massive refresh for its 2022 model year, the Frontier can now keep up with the demands of today's busy travelers looking for more interior comforts. With Zero Gravity seats, a heated steering wheel, and more quality appointments than models of its past, the Frontier also becomes an ideal commuter, allowing you to easily head into the North Hills and enjoy every moment you're behind the wheel.
Toyota Tacoma: A Crowd Pleaser
The Toyota Tacoma has been a top-selling midsize truck for years, and for good reason. Aside from boasting the best maximum performance numbers out of all of the trucks we've talked about today, we know that it's reliable, capable, and can easily take on work tasks, adventures, commutes, and so much more, thanks to its dizzying amount of trims. It can handle daunting terrain and take on the daily commute, and it proves to be a dutiful workmate out in the wilderness and in the city, which begs the question—is there anything the Tacoma can't do?
With the Trailhunter model in the lineup, the Tacoma takes its off-road chops to new levels. From Old Man Emu shocks to a high-clearance front bumper and more durable elements, the Tacoma is a force in the wilderness. With a new 2.4L i-FORCE MAX turbocharged hybrid powertrain, clocking in at a monstrous 326 hp and 465 lb-ft of torque, anda smooth eight-speed automatic transmission, the Tacoma is revolutionizing the experience on the road. When you want a truck that's ultra-dependable and can quite literally do it all, the Tacoma is a fan favorite.
Which Midsize Truck Is Right for Your Raleigh Adventures?
There's a midsize truck designed for every Raleigh driver, especially when you have high standards and versatility in your mind. The Colorado is an outstanding choice for those who are seeking out a hard worker, commuter, or adventure mate with excellent power and capabilities to handle anything your day tosses its way. The Canyon takes Colorado's power and elevates your experience with lavish appointments and phenomenal ride quality through the Denali trim. When you want to take advantage of superior off-road prowess, the Gladiator won't disappoint with legendary 4x4 capabilities and durability that can't be matched.
The Frontier is an outstanding pick for those looking for an affordable and capable everyday truck, while the Tacoma's performance, reliability, and reputation of excellence in the industry make it a top pick for drivers near and far. When you want to enjoy your time as you travel through the Triangle, any of these midsize trucks can provide you with an unforgettable experience.
