Here at the beginning of 2026, I have to ask if we really need all the features added to tailgates over the last 5+ years. From split openings to tailgates on tailgates, are these features needed or just a sales gimmick?
GM Multi-Flex/Multi-Pro Tailgate
Perhaps the biggest innovation in the tailgate game comes from GM, the Chevy Multi-Flex and GMC Multi-Pro tailgates are essentially tailgates within the tailgate. Allowing up to six different positions, including a load-stop that allows for longer items in the bed of the truck without falling out
Optional Kicker speakers add some extra functionality to the rear of the truck. The most useful feature is the step functionality that, in addition to the corner step in the bumper, makes it that much easier to climb into the bed of a GM truck.
Pros:
- Built-in step
- Optional speakers
- Six different positions for flexible functionality
Cons:
- Beware of trailer hitches
- No power open/close function
- Added complexity
Ford Pro Access Tailgate
With the 2024 updates to the F-150, the best-selling vehicle in the States, Ford has two entries on this list: the Integrated Tailgate Step and the new Pro Access Tailgate.
Ford started the tailgate wars with its integrated tailgate step that deploys from the top of the tailgate. Now, Ford also offers its 37-inch-wide Pro Access Tailgate that swings open like a door, but is still mindful of potential hazards at the back of the truck, like trailers. With stops at 37º, 70º, and 100º, this door should stay in place no matter the circumstance.
Pros:
- Three different indentations to keep the door from swinging
- Convenient for grabbing items without dropping the whole tailgate
- Improved bed access
Cons:
- Still not ideal if towing
- Overrides the integrated step tailgate
- Added complexity
Ram Multifunction Tailgate
Much like the Ford Pro Access Tailgate, the Multifunction Tailgate from Ram opens like a door, except Ram splits its tailgate 60/40 and is a double door mechanism that still allows the tailgate to lower down normally as well. When opened, the tailgate doors allow owners to walk right up to the bed of the truck. I was able to have a pallet loaded in the back of a Ram with this tailgate very easily, without having to add forklift extensions or to push the pallet across the tailgate
Pros:
- 60/40 split opening allows unprecedented access to the bed
- Convenient for grabbing items without dropping the whole tailgate
- Doesn’t change the tailgate design too much
Cons:
- Still not ideal if towing
- Sometimes you really have to slam it closed
- Added complexity
Toyota Power Tailgate
Toyota is the furthest behind in overall tailgate tricks. Most of the functionality you will find on its most feature-rich Tundra tailgates will also be found on the other brands’ entries without the features mentioned above. Where Toyota stands out is the hidden switch on the driver’s side taillight. Bumping this button with your elbow while carrying something heavy will power deploy the tailgate down while allowing you access to the bed hands-free. Like the other brands’ power tailgate offerings, the Tundra tailgate can be lifted slightly by your knee, if you are unloading the bed and have your hands full, and the tailgate will close by itself. Another way to power close the Tundra tailgate is using the bump switch on the taillight again.
Pros:
- Simple Design
- Power open and close
- Bump switch for hands-free operation
Cons:
- The simplest functionality
- No “quick access” ability
- Not very unique in the segment
Final Thoughts
Your use case may differ in what you need from your truck, but these tailgate options definitely raise the bar for what used to be a simple hunk of metal that would slam down when opened. I do appreciate how all brands do still offer simple tailgates without all the complexities listed above, but if you are in need of these features, you can option your pickup truck accordingly.
Are these options needed? No, but it sure is great when you find the perfect time to use and show off your expensive tailgate.
The post Modern Truck Tailgates Compared: Useful Innovation or Just a Gimmick? appeared first on Pickup Truck +SUV Talk.
