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New Smaller Trucks From The 2016 Chicago Auto Show

Drivers who are becoming more conscious of gas milage and those who are concerned with fitting in smaller parking spaces are consistently considering smaller alternatives to larger trucks. The Chevrolet Colorado, GMC Canyon and Toyota Tacoma are amongst the smallest trucks around. As alternatives to the F-150 and Dodge Ram, the smaller trucks are gaining popularity as people purchase them to have an off-road capable vehicle or truck bed. These smaller trucks are great for those who might need the capability but do not consistently tow large loads. Amongst rumors of other small trucks like the Ford Ranger making a comeback, the segment is exploding with attention. These vehicles are available to check out at the 2016 Chicago Auto Show.


Photo by Robert Mathius

Toyota Tacoma

The little brother of Toyota's Tundra pickup, the smaller pickup maintains popularity due to Toyota's track record of reliable vehicles. The Tacoma comes standard with a 2.7 liter four cylinder, which produces 159 horsepower. The smaller, more efficient engine is great for those looking to have the look of a pickup along with the truck bed, but avoid the high price at the pump. For those looking for a bit more power, the 3.5 liter direct-injection V6 delivers performance and efficiency rated at 278 horsepower. This option is great for those who like to spend some time off-roading, have rough job sites to get to or who want to pass up slower traffic on a quiet commute downtown. The Tacoma comes with Qi-compatible wireless smartphone charging, an available Smart Key System with push button start and a new reinforced skeleton which makes the vehicle more ridged. The added strength makes the A-pillar of the truck three times stronger, too.


Photo by Robert Mathius

GMC Canyon

The GMC Canyon is a midsize pickup which features an available new Duramax I-4 2.8 liter turbo diesel. With 181 horsepower and 369 pound feet of torque, the Canyon is small enough to navigate downtown traffic but tough enough to tow a boat. The Canyon is a more upscale truck, which means it has available leather seats and a more adult feel to the interior. Further, the Canyon has lots of features to make life easy for drivers. Active grille shutters close automatically on the front of the truck to improve aerodynamics. This, in turn, saves money on the monthly fuel bill as it improves efficiency. A cornerstep rear bumper, along with integrated hand grips, makes getting in and out of the truck bed easy. 


Photo by Robert Mathius

Chevrolet Colorado

The Chevrolet Colorado is an old nameplate recently brought back to life. The cousin to the GMC Canyon, the Colorado is a more utilitarian option for a smaller pickup. Paired with the same turbo diesel that is featured in the Canyon, the Colorado features the same performance stats. The Colorado has best-in-class fuel economy and towing with 22/31 MPG and 7,700 pound ratings, respectively. The Colorado even has available 4G LTE wifi, just like the Canyon, which allows for a seamless working experience for passengers who need internet access. 

The 2016 Chicago Auto Show is the host to many smaller pickup trucks. It runs through Feb. 21, showing off plenty of the large truck alternatives for those who demand off-road and performance capability but do not always need it.

Robert Mathius is a Chicago suburb native who currently lives in Tinley Park. He has a passion for the automotive industry in addition to journalism and works to blend his two passions in his writing. Additional automotive reporting by Robert can be found on Examiner.com.

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