Finally, smaller is coming back in style. Pickup trucks have taken “full-size” to a whole new level of ridiculous proportions, to the point that it’s tough to get in and out of them, or even squeeze them into parking spots.

Smaller trucks are now sized fairly close to what full-size trucks used to be. That should make them appealing to a lot of buyers who don’t need the extra capability – or the bulk – of a half-ton, but still want something with cargo capacity that isn’t an SUV. The Japanese never left this segment, but the North American automakers are coming back in, with Ford’s new Ranger the latest addition.

Naturally, it’s larger than the old Ranger, which ended its run over here after the 2012 model year. Ford’s small truck remained in production in global markets, and our new one is a version of Australia’s Ranger, but with different suspension tuning, a fully-boxed frame, and different engine and transmission.

That powerplant, the only one currently available, is a 2.3L turbocharged four-cylinder, borrowed from the Mustang EcoBoost and making 270 horsepower and 310 lb.-ft. of torque. It’s mated to a ten-speed automatic lifted from the F-150.

It starts as the SuperCab, with six-foot box, four seats, and small, rear-hinged back doors that require you to first open the front ones. The SuperCrew has a five-foot box, five seats, and four conventionally opening doors. American buyers can opt for two-wheel drive, but all Rangers here in Canada are 4×4.