Not that many people even care, (I for one sure don't) but with all the IFS crap out there, who honestly makes a mid-size pickup worth buying these days. except to pick up groceries or make a low-rider out of one what real purpose does a mid (just call it mini) size truck serve?  

There are no true "mini" trucks currently on sale in the U.S. as far as I'm concerned. Personally, I like the new Nissan Frontier. Has a nice, sporty feel, good towing/hauling capacity. A lot of people like the new Taco, but I'm not a fan of the high floor, legs-out feel on Toyotas. Dakota, even with the V-8, was a total turd, as far as I'm concerned. I haven't driven the new 302-horse model, but just feels all wallowy and mushy, as opposed to the Nissan's tight, taut feel. The Dakota is an embarrassment off-road as well, at least the standard 4x4 model.  

I would have to say I would go for the "taco" as esanchez put it. (That made me hungry...not a good sign, Monday at 9:30 and I am already hungry.) On to what I was saying, I love that unique to Toyota seat one the floor, legs stretched out layout. I had two 4Runners so I must have gotten used to it. Oddly enough, it was the exact opposite in my Alfa Romeo Spider. In those you sit legs splayed, arms stretched out. Does this mean I am only comfortable in uncomfortable cars?

Also, there is such a huge amount of after market off-road equipment out there for Tacoma trucks. It just seems to look right when a Tacoma is lifted to a socially irresponsible height on 32s or larger. You know, the tires that are so huge you cannot even turn right or left without rubbing the wheel well.  

Mid size truck? Tacoma. Hands down. No question. No contest. The Dakota, Raider, Frontier, or Colorado can't hold a candle to the Tacoma.  

4x4n, if Jeep gets around to actually making it, I think the JT concept would get my vote for the coolest "midsize" pickup. Looks like it might happen. We'll see. Regardless, it needs more power than that weak-sauce 3.8L minivan engine, though. At least the new 24v 4.0 V-6 or the 3.0 CRD turbodiesel.  

Did I mention Tacoma yet? lol  

Yeah, the Taco has a lot of fans. I'm personally not crazy about it, but it's definitely a competent machine. In terms of sheer off-road ability, I still think the JT would be the best, but from a utilitarian standpoint, probably wouldn't be as practical as a Taco or other "conventional" midsize.  

Tacoma? Why? It's a big name, that's all, the frontier has more horse, more torque, a better frame and more hauling/towing capability. By the way, it's cheaper too.  

This is just my impression of the Nissan...there is a REASON why it is cheaper. I always wonder where exactly it is that Nissan extracts the extra profit it gets from each model. If you follow automotive business trends you will see percentage wise the top two car makers for profit per vehicle are Porsche and Nissan. Porsche I understand becauase they charge extra for EVERYTHING. Nissan, I think just cost cuts and puts out an inferior product. Profit before customer care. Same thing that got Ford in trouble years ago. Okay, sorry about that tangential stream of thought.  

i would have to say ranger ( a little bias) but i do agree that there are no real "mini" trucks being made any more. thats why i would def. have to say mid to late rangers and also the nissan hard bodys for lowriders are the best. and rangers would probably be my choice for off road due to the huge following and large aftermarket on the 4.0  

Balboa455:
This is just my impression of the Nissan...there is a REASON why it is cheaper. I always wonder where exactly it is that Nissan extracts the extra profit it gets from each model. If you follow automotive business trends you will see percentage wise the top two car makers for profit per vehicle are Porsche and Nissan. Porsche I understand becauase they charge extra for EVERYTHING. Nissan, I think just cost cuts and puts out an inferior product. Profit before customer care. Same thing that got Ford in trouble years ago. Okay, sorry about that tangential stream of thought.

Inferior product? Doesn't Toyota use a C-channel frame and a plastic bed? Doesn't Chevy has that weak 5 cylinder engine?    

Nope, Toyota (Tacoma at least) frames are boxed.

And the Ranger is not a mid-size, so it wouldn't count here.