It's been a trend in the auto industry -- what used to be compact vehicles are turning into more spacious models. But now, that trend is changing, at least for pickups.

In the '70s and '80s, compact pickup trucks became a significant segment -- practicality in droves and easy and inexpensive to own. But then, trucks like the Toyota Tacoma, Ford Ranger and Nissan Frontier got larger over the years to suit larger Americans.

"People grew, and they want more shoulder room, is what kinda happened," said Tim Esterdahl, who operates the website PickupTruckTalk.com, as well as a related podcast.

With former compact models having grown into mid-size, Ford did something interesting a few years ago by introducing the Maverick . It was the return of the compact truck, the success of which surpr

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