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Different strokes for different folks! Opinions vary wildly about trucks and which one is best as segment leaders cater to various needs. Critics can’t seem to agree on the best mid-size truck for 2024, but the top models were both redesigned for the year. 

Critics disagree about the best mid-size truck for 2024 

Declaring the best mid-size truck for 2024 comes down to user testing and top scores based on performance, comfort, safety ratings, and more. 

But is the best truck the 2024 Toyota Tacoma or the 2024 Ford Ranger? Edmunds and U.S.News list different models as the best options. 

U.S.News lists the 2024 Tacoma and the 2024 Honda Ridgeline as the best mid-size options. Both models earned a score of 8.1 out of 10. 

I’m focusing on the Tacoma for now because it’s arguably truckier than the Ridgeline. Also, the 2024 Ford Ranger is in fourth place with a score of 7.6. 

Meanwhile, Edmunds lists the 2024 Ranger in the top spot with a score of 8.2 out of 10, and the 2024 Tacoma is listed in fourth place with a score of 7.8. 

The 2024 Ford Ranger near a scenic view
2024 Ford Ranger | Ford

U.S.News ranks the Tacoma highly for its powerful and efficient new powertrains, including a hybrid engine, it’s more refined on the pavement, and the cabin is modern and comfortable. Potential drawbacks include the low tow rating, small back seat, and loud engine noise. 

The 2024 Ranger ranks well for its potent engines, refined road manners, and spacious interior, But the steering is numb, the infotainment system is distracting, and it has a high price for the class. 

Edmunds praises the Ranger for its stout towing capacity, comfortable ride quality, beastly Raport model, and convenient tech. But it’s more expensive than rivals and only offers one bed configuration. 

Positives for the Tacoma include its wide variety of trims and configurations, the off-roading TRD models, and a powerful and efficient hybrid powertrain. Potential negatives include a noisy engine and a tight backseat. 

So, the Ranger is more spacious and can tow more, but the Tacoma offers more configurations and a hybrid powertrain.

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Staff Writer

Allison Barfield

Allison Barfield joined MotorBiscuit in 2020 and covers all things trucks, SUVs, and Jeeps. Having grown up on a farm in Rock Hill, South Carolina, she’s no stranger to the “Best in Class” truck and SUV debates; people in her hometown were always gathering to help work on vehicles together, and deliberation would naturally arise.

Allison graduated from the University of South Carolina with a degree in Media Arts. She has helped bring awareness to issues Women In Trucking face and has promoted Truckers Against Trafficking, an anti-trafficking NGO.

A fan of creatively dark literature, Allison appreciates the works of Shirley Jackson and Emily Dickenson. She lives in a mountainous area of the country and enjoys off-roading and camping. Her dog, Bruce, often joins her in testing trucks and SUVs for our site.