We purchased a new 2012 GMC 4wd Canyon for many reasons, but one was with the some-day intent of flat towing. It's about 4100 lbs, so it's on the heavier side as far as mid-size pickups go. We would have purchased a 2013, but there's one small problem: They don't make 'em anymore. Nor does Ford make the Ranger, and Dodge hasn't built a mid-size or compact for some time. Strange world we live in.
I would have thought any older compact pickup with a manual would be flat-towable, but that's what I get for thinking w/o researching.
Interesting thread....