The midgate is no doubt a novel idea. As a classic example of "necessity is the mother of invention," this unique feature extends a pickup truck's bed by allowing the driver to fold down the rearmost seat and connect the bed with the cab through a hinged door or "gate." The innovative setup creates a much longer and larger cargo area for hauling items requiring extra space. As such, the midgate offers more versatility and practicality to the truck ownership experience.
Vehicles With a Midgate
Although the midgate is a simple and ingenious way to allow truck owners to haul longer items without needing a trailer, automakers have not widely integrated them throughout the years. That said, there are a handful of examples, current and past, that utilize the midgate design. General Motors (GM) is the most prevalent manufacturer to employ the midgate in its production vehicles, but there are a few others. Here’s a rundown:
- Cadillac Escalade EXT—A premium version of the Chevrolet Avalanche, the Cadillac Escalade EXT was a luxury pickup with a midgate that could fold down to extend the bed. This allowed for a seamless transition between passenger and cargo configurations, making it a versatile vehicle for both family and work endeavors. Due to declining sales, Cadillac discontinued the Escalade EXT following the 2013 model year.
- Chevrolet Avalanche—Although discontinued following the 2013 model year, it’s impossible to have a relevant discussion about midgates without the Chevrolet Avalanche. The Avalanche pioneered the modern midgate design and brought it to mainstream buyers in the early 2000s. This unique truck offered a combination of SUV comfort and truck utility, thanks to a midgate that significantly increased cargo capacity. It made the Avalanche ideal for a variety of lifestyles and work-related goals.
- Chevrolet Silverado EV—The Silverado EV is the latest model to revive the midgate concept and is currently the only mainstream production vehicle that integrates this feature. This electric pickup truck boasts a Multi-Flex Midgate that can extend the bed length from 5 feet 11 inches to over 9 feet. Combining the midgate with the Silverado EV's lowered tailgate, the total cargo length can reach nearly 11 feet, expanding capacity to accommodate longer items from kayaks and paddleboards to lumber. Like the Avalanche, the rear glass can remain in place, or you can remove and stow it.
- GMC Envoy XUV—This unique SUV could transform into a four-door pickup with an enclosed cab with a nearly 3.7-foot-long exposed cargo space. Drop the XUV's midgate, and the length of its bed grew to more than six feet. GMC discontinued the Envoy XUV in 2005.
- Hummer H2 SUT—Although the Hummer H2 SUT went out of production in 2009, its use of a midgate deserves a mention. This unique SUV/truck featured a 2.9-foot bed that could extend to six feet by folding down the rear seat and opening the midgate, offering a flexible cargo solution to help offset the relatively small bed.
- Subaru Baja—A cult classic among outdoor enthusiasts, the Subaru Baja was a unique SUV and pickup truck blend. It featured a midgate that combined with the lowered tailgate and created a substantial cargo bed that appealed to those seeking a practical and adventurous vehicle. Subaru discontinued the Baja after the 2006 model year.
Pros and Cons of the Midgate
Much like fold-down rear seats in a sedan that gives access to trunk space, the midgate is a somewhat rare feature in its overall design and function. It has obvious benefits, but also comes with some drawbacks.
Advantages of a Midgate
- Increased cargo capacity—The primary advantage of a midgate is its ability to improve a truck's bed size and cargo capacity significantly.
- Versatility—A midgate offers flexibility for various needs. You can lower it to transport large items or create a spacious interior for camping or other outdoor adventures.
- Unique aesthetic—Midgate trucks often have a distinctive and eye-catching design, setting them apart from traditional pickup trucks.
Disadvantages of a Midgate
- Reduced passenger capacity—When you deploy the midgate, it reduces the number of available seats in the vehicle, hindering passenger capacity for larger groups and families.
- Potential for damage—The midgate mechanism has moving parts that are susceptible to wear and tear as well as damage due to misuse or overuse.
- Reduced security—An open midgate can serve as an entry point for an unauthorized person or someone with malintent.
Summary
The midgate is a compelling feature that can significantly enhance a vehicle's versatility. As the automotive industry continues to evolve, we may see more vehicles incorporating the midgate design to provide greater flexibility and utility in trucks and SUVs.
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Jessica Shea Choksey is an experienced writer in the automotive field. In addition to JDPower.com, she was a correspondent for PBS's MotorWeek, and her work has appeared on Autotrader.
