Depends on which truck. Before choosing, check out the capacities and ratings for each truck you are considering. Some small trucks are more capable than others. Newer models are a lot more capable than small trucks from the 1970s and 1980s.
Equipment choice can be crucial, factory towing packages might add 1000-1500 pounds to tow ratings and 150-250 pounds to allowable tongue weights. My 2001 Ranger was limited to 2500 pounds, could have been 4000 properly equipped.
Since the 2000s when small pickup 4-cyl engines got into the 2.5 liter range with 150-200 HP, towing capacities could be as much as 3500 pounds for a 4, sometimes 6000+ for a V-6. You'll usually have at least 600-800 pounds load capacity to deal with passengers, cargo and tongue weight, maybe a lot more for lighter trucks (e.g. regular cab).
In recent years, small 4-cylinder trucks have gotten hard to find new, as formerly compact lines have been sized up to mid-size four-door models, with 3.5 to 4.0 V-6 engines as standard equipment, except maybe the occasional work truck. Nissan and Chevrolet/GMC are still putting a 4 in their mid-size trucks, but dealers don't carry many in stock, more likely to order for fleet buyers.
Do you have a particular truck in mind? New Colorado has a 200 HP four, rated to tow 3500 pounds with the tow package.
Tom Test
Itasca Spirit 29B
