There are a slew of amazing midsize truck models for 2022 to consider. But before making any buying decisions, you’ll likely turn to online reviews from auto critics, which show first drives and general opinions on which trucks are better, Chevy, Hyundai, or Nissan.
One of the most recent reviews rates it from a pro-consumer perspective. JD Power considered the data, which includes quality, performance and attractiveness, to formally rank and certify its favorites. As useful as these ratings may be to you, the ideal truck will boil down to which you find most important – quality or attractiveness.
It will have its own unique strengths and weaknesses. And trying to sort them out collectively is a challenge. In this study, the evaluation process was divided into two distinct lenses, quality, and attractiveness. From there, each pickup model was reviewed and assigned a rank within the specified categories.
When JD Power rates vehicles, it does so based on the tens of thousands of surveys it sends out to new, verified vehicle owners. These surveys ask about your likes, dislikes, best features, and worst problems.
From there, those opinions contribute to the millions of data points used to analyze each car contender. For the truck segment, there is one clear winner in the annual Initial Quality Study and Resume Performance, Execution and Planning Study ratings. And spoiler alert. It’s not the same truck in every class.
Best mid-size truck in terms of initial quality
If you’re one of those would-be truck owners who values quality over everything else, you need a test. This midsize truck takes the cake in JD Power’s study for being the “Highest Quality Midsize Truck” of the year.
Most 2022 Ford Ranger owners appreciated the selection of cab configurations and trims, including an extended cab and crew cab, along with XL, XLT, and Lariat trims. They also praised the Tremor Off-Road Package which brings more capability to the already impressive four-wheel drive system.
The turbocharged four-cylinder engine is powerful enough, too, harnessing 270 horsepower and delivering 310 lb-ft of torque. It has a towing capacity of 7,500 pounds and up to 1,905 pounds of payload parts.
New for 2022, Ford Ranger fans get the Orange Accent Edition of the Ranger Splash Appearance Pack. The STX Special Edition offered 17-inch all-black aluminum wheels as well. And for those looking for a vibrant color for your Ranger, Ford has brought Hot Pepper Red Metallic paint to the color palette.
Other critics, myself included, weren’t necessarily as impressed with this truck. But the owners of the ranger spoke up. It is the best in quality.
Best performing and most attractive mid-size truck
If appeal lures you to your ideal vehicle, JD Power says you should consider . It is rated as the most attractive, with its new model introduced last year.
You might notice the similarities to the Hyundai Tucson, and you’d be right. This midsize truck is based on Hyundai’s popular compact crossover. This truck only comes as a crew cab with a short cargo bed.
Consumers can choose from four models, with the mid-size pickup being offered with a turbocharged four-cylinder and AWD system. The 2022 Hyundai Santa Cruz may win the sexiest contest in terms of performance and overall style, but it’s also quite capable. You’ll appreciate 5,000 pounds of towing and 1,411 pounds of payload versatility.
What fans really love about the 2022 Santa Cruz is the SUV-like feel of the pickup. It’s attractive because it’s the best of both worlds with interior amenities, smart comfort features, and the potential for off-pavement adventure.
So, if you have a truck-loving heart set on a 2022 midsize or compact truck, consider the Hyundai Santa Cruz. You will decide which is most suitable based on which characteristic is more important, quality or attractiveness.
