Compact Powerhouses: A Comprehensive Overview of Mini Trucks in the Year 2025
The automotive industry is gearing up for a significant shift in the compact pickup truck market. In the coming years, we can expect an influx of new models that are more affordable, capable, and technology-forward, with a clear focus on hybrid and fully electric options.
New Affordable Compact Pickups from Major Brands
Toyota is set to launch three new budget-friendly compact pickups in 2026—the Toyota Stout, LiteCruiser, and Tacoma Mini. These trucks aim to offer serious value, efficiency, and modern tech, targeting the growing demand for sub-Tacoma size pickups. They will be built on Toyota's TNGA platform, featuring hybrid drivetrains, to compete with the Ford Maverick[1].
General Motors is also joining the fray with the Chevrolet Montana compact pickup, scheduled for release in 2026. This truck will focus on reliability, budget-conscious buyers, and everyday practicality. It may include off-road-inspired trims and blend capability with affordability, aiming to shake up the smaller truck market[2][3].
Increasing Availability of Electric and Hybrid Options
The trend towards electric and hybrid compact pickups is gaining momentum. These vehicles offer a smaller footprint, urban maneuverability, and lower operating costs compared to full-size EV trucks. Examples include the hybrid Ford Maverick and new EV models like the Telo MT1 and Slate truck[4].
The small EV pickups market is expected to expand due to demand for vehicles that combine versatility and affordability in an electric powertrain, filling a gap for urban and smaller fleets often underserved by full-size EV pickups[4].
The Hyundai Santa Cruz and Ford Maverick: The Main Players
Two standout models in the compact pickup truck market are the Hyundai Santa Cruz and the Ford Maverick. The Santa Cruz, with its 1,749-pound payload capacity, surpasses the Maverick, making it ideal for hauling heavy items like dirt bikes or landscaping supplies[5]. However, the Maverick can tow up to 4,000 pounds and carry 1,500 pounds of payload[6].
Both vehicles have received high praise from critics. The Hyundai Santa Cruz has been rated 8.5/10 by MotorTrend and 9/10 by Car and Driver[5]. The Ford Maverick, on the other hand, has impressed with ratings of 9.1/10 from MotorTrend and an impressive 10/10 from Car and Driver[6].
The Future of Compact Pickups
In 2026 and beyond, compact pickups will focus on affordability, hybrid and electric powertrains, smart designs, and practical urban/off-road capabilities. This shift reflects a market move towards smaller, greener, and more accessible trucks for a wider range of buyers[1][2][3][4].
Moreover, electric options are emerging in the compact pickup market. For instance, Slate Truck aims for a $20,000 EV by 2026, while the Alpha Wolf promises 350 miles of range[7].
As the compact pickup trend continues to escalate, with potential entrants like Toyota's Stout, Chevrolet Montana, and Ram Rampage (sold in Brazil), it's an exciting time for consumers seeking a blend of style, practicality, and efficiency in their vehicles.
[1] https://www.motortrend.com/news/2026-toyota-compact-pickup-trucks-tacoma-mini-stout-litecruiser/ [2] https://www.motortrend.com/news/2026-chevrolet-montana-compact-truck-spy-shots/ [3] https://www.caranddriver.com/news/a36622934/chevrolet-montana-compact-truck-spy-photos/ [4] https://www.autoblog.com/2022/02/09/compact-electric-pickup-trucks-will-fill-a-gap-in-the-market/ [5] https://www.motortrend.com/cars/hyundai/santa-cruz/ [6] https://www.motortrend.com/cars/ford/maverick/ [7] https://www.greencarreports.com/news/1135047_compact-electric-trucks-are-coming-soon-from-slate-truck-alpha-wolf-and-others
- The industry's focus on electric and hybrid powertrains is evident in the upcoming GM Chevrolet Montana compact pickup, which will likely include an electric version aiming to shake up the smaller truck market.
- The expansion of the compact pickup market in the automotive industry not only includes mainstream brands like Toyota but also emerging players such as startups like Slate Truck, offering budget-friendly electric options.
