Yikes I wouldn't say any toyota pickup outside of the tundra has more interior room than a maverick. While it has 5 seats, the usability for them I'd guarantee is less than a maverick.
Source: I'm 6'6" and shopped newer tacos hard for awhile. Also own a 86', 94' 4runner and an 91 pickup. Awesome trucks but it's not on par with cab space with a maverick on any level.
I guess this is where you and I differ. I don't have a prerequisite of can I sleep in the vehicle or not. I have spent a few nights in several vehicles including my 99 f150 reg cab laid out across the 80/20 split bench. But like you I do have my reasons for a long bed. All of which are for transporting big/ long things. What I don't get are why people want a 4dr for room to transport objects. That's what the bed is for!
I like the covertable tops for when I need a covered bed. Prob. 80% open 20% covered. I'll consider moving over to hybrid when they get better at making them. oh I have a trailer too, needed that even when I had my f150.
Let's see, three of the four Rangers I had were regular cab short beds, so yes, I'd consider one. Especially if it gave you a bit longer bed, but a shorter wheelbase too.