It’s hard to deny the practicality of a pickup. After all, many people need to haul lumber, boxes, or many other forms of cargo. Sometimes, they need to tow heavy equipment around. Of course, some people prefer more compact vehicles that still boast some cargo space. This is the reason why we chose to highlight 10 vehicles that combine cars and trucks.
No. 10 – Subaru Brat
Ah, the Subaru Brat (Bi-drive Recreational All-terrain Transporter). This little vehicle instantly became memorable when it hit the market in 1978. It boasted four-wheel-drive and “jump seats” seats in the bed, which Subaru used to circumvent the “Chicken Tax” on light trucks. President Ronald Reagan owned one, which only made the Brat more memorable.
Like many other vehicles on this list, the Brat didn’t have the most power or cargo-hauling ability. We still put it on the list due to its unique look.
No. 9 – Chevrolet SSR
The Chevrolet SSR was not the most practical vehicle, and it did not have a discernible market. These are reasons why it only lasted from 2003-2006. Yet, we still find this little car/pickup hybrid appealing.
We appreciate the retro styling and the retractable hardtop that converts it into a pickup. Its four-foot bed is less of an issue considering it is only a few inches smaller than the ones on the Ford Maverick and Hyundai Santa Cruz. Plus, it’s hard to argue with a pickup featuring a Corvette engine and a six-speed manual transmission.
No. 8 – Subaru Baja
Like the Brat before it, the Subaru Baja combined the handling of a passenger vehicle with the cargo area of a pickup. According to the designer Peter Tenn, the Baja also paid homage to the unique rally-race trucks that conquer desert environments.
While the Baja isn’t the best-looking vehicle around, it boasted a unique feature. This little car/truck hybrid offered an extended bed, courtesy of the “Switchback” system. Basically, the rear seats of the cargo area folded down while a hatch opened to accommodate larger items. The 41.5-inch bed increased to 75 inches while taking up part of the passenger compartment.
No. 7 – Suzuki Mighty Boy
The Suzuki Mighty Boy did not deliver an abundance of power with its in-line-three engine delivering a whopping 30 horsepower. It also did not boast much cargo space with its 24-inch bed. Does that matter to us? Absolutely not. The Mighty Boy possessed a certain charm with its unique design and manual transmission. Unfortunately, it did not enjoy a robust market. In fact, it only became available in Japan, Australia, and Cyprus.
No. 6 – Datsun 220 Coupe Utility
If you ask Nissan, they will classify the Datsun 220 as a pickup. In fact, they refer to this little vehicle as “the first compact truck in the U.S.” Yet, as MotorTrend explains, this pickup is actually a Bluebird coupe with a truck bed. Honestly, we don’t care how you classify the Datsun 220 as long as you appreciate its classic styling and practicality.
No. 5 – Volkswagen Rabbit Pickup
Like many other vehicles on this list, the Volkswagen Rabbit pickup boasts more personality than power. We are perfectly fine with that. In fact, we prefer having the option to inject more personality with custom wheels, paint, and suspension. The Rabbit pickup looks particularly good when lowered.
It doesn’t matter if the VW has the gas or diesel engine; the little two-seater remains fun to drive. Just don’t expect to get to your destination in a hurry.
No. 4 – Chevrolet El Camino
An icon in the automotive world, the Chevrolet El Camino has legitimate muscle car credentials. It had the memorable design that garnered attention, and it boasted enough power to create a fun driving experience. The original 1959 El Camino had a V8 engine delivering 315 horsepower and a 0-60 mph time around seven seconds. Certain models of the third generation El Camino, which became the most popular, had a 450-horsepower V8.
No. 3 – Ford Ranchero
The Chevrolet El Camino has a substantial fanbase, and for good reason. However, the Ford Ranchero deserves more recognition. It hit the market years before the El Camino, and it delivered a blend of utility and performance. You could haul cargo in this classic while also roasting the tires with ease.
No. 2 – Mini Pickup
We will fully admit that we have an unhealthy obsession with classic Minis, especially those featuring right-hand drive. This obsession also includes the Mini pickup, which pairs a truck bed with the adorable Mini front end.
Can you fit a full sheet of plywood in the back? Not really. Can you haul a ton of cargo to the job site? Sure can’t. Can you take it to the lake or the shore with enough gear for some fun in the sun? Probably. Will you have a massive grin on your face while darting around town on 12-inch wheels? Absolutely.
No. 1 – Holden Ute
Considered by some to be the best of these car/truck hybrids, the Holden Ute became a mainstay in Australia. Some used the Ute for a work vehicle while others used it for weekend adventures. Another group used it for racing.
We aren’t picky. We just love the look of the Ute — all generations — and we appreciate that General Motors made some powerful engines available. Who doesn’t want a vehicle featuring car handling, truck practicality, and a big V8 engine?