There are quite a few around my area. They are beyond ridiculous and stupid looking. I cringe every time I see one because I am sure that the guy driving feels so cool when in fact it is just embarrassing.
I think the only thing it's missing out on is box length and ride height? I'm not sure why they didn't reuse the Ranger model name and gave the new ranger a different name.
It's mostly poorly written legislation and Americans wanting bigger and bigger cars. CAFE, or corporate average fuel efficiency, is the main culprit. It's in dire need of an overhaul. I'm hoping we'll get a small electric pickup someday.
As for safety you might be thinking of kei trucks which are gaining popularity in the US, but aren't registerable in most states due to safety regulations.
I miss those little Datsun pickups. About the size of an S10 and you could beat the absolute hell out of them and they'd still run.
Same with the 70s Ford Courrier. My buddy had one that I know for a fact he rolled. Cracked the door so you had to slam it to get it closed. Sumbitch kept running.