SANTA BARBARA, Calif. -

There is no vehicle, industry-wide, that has a stronger residual value forecast than the Toyota Tacoma, according to ALG.

But there is one automaker, in particular, that aims to “take on” this residual kingpin with its pair of model-year 2015 midsize pickup launches.

That would be General Motors and its 2015 Chevrolet Colorado/GMC Canyon duo.

“Where other brands have conceded defeat in the midsize pickup segment, GM sees an opportunity to take on the Toyota Tacoma, which has the highest residual value forecast of any vehicle in the industry,” said Eric Lyman, vice president of editorial for ALG.

“GM is hoping that the U.S. market will reflect the global demand for the segment and as such are launching their global models, reportedly with diesel in 2015, into the domestic market.”

Amid the buzz of the Los Angeles Auto Show this week, ALG shared its insight on new models being introduced at the show, including the aforementioned Colorado/Canyon.

The automaker has done a better job at distinguishing these two pickups than before, ALG suggests, and it has led to a “more unique brand identify for both GMC and Chevrolet.”

Going back to Lyman’s note on diesel models, ALG also points out that diesel-engine vehicles generate “significantly higher” residual values than gas-powered vehicles. What’s more, consumers here in the U.S. are becoming more educated about and accepting of diesel engines.

Because of this, GM gains “a competitive edge versus other midsize pickup entries,” ALG noted.

Elsewhere, Lyman also offered his thoughts on the 2015 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class.

“The small premium CUV set has heated up, and Mercedes is eager to stake its claim here,” said Lyman. “More competitors equals more supply, leading to overall declines in residual values for the segment.”

“With the all-new CLA winning ALG’s Residual Value Award for 2014, Mercedes is finding some initial success going down market, proving that inspired design can diffuse concerns about an overall drop in price.”

Editor’s Note: Stay tuned to Auto Remarketing for more residual value insight from ALG and others as the LA Auto Show continues.