By Pamela Rose
The over-century excellent reputation of pickup trucks is well deserved due to their striking aesthetics, adaptability, stability, and robust design. Choosing the right one can be more challenging than many people think. You can’t compare buying a pickup to purchasing a small car – there are many more factors to consider.
Types
With a full-size type, you can haul large loads, go camping, or tow a heavy travel trailer. Unlike the compact ones, they have more ground clearance for effortless off-roading. Full-size models are divided into half-ton, 3/4-ton, 1-ton, medium, and heavy-duty.
A half-ton option is the right choice if you are looking for a vehicle for the whole family. Half-ton trucks are the most common because of their affordability. They offer V-6 and V-8 engines – gasoline and hybrid. The GMC model is one of this type’s best and most reliable choices. Just look at the used GMC Sierra near you in the dealership, take a test drive and enjoy its power, design, and maneuverability.
3/4-ton are more powerful than their half-ton counterparts. The -2500 rating on the Silverado 2500HD, Ram 2500, and F-250, for example, denotes more power. These vehicles offer a great balance between price and powertrain.
If you admire an absolute beast for every task, choose a 1-ton option. They can traverse all types of terrain and tow heavy travel trailers. You can lift your pickup truck for extra off-road capabilities and an even more powerful look.
What to look for when buying
Fuel economy
Whether an organization or an individual, fuel costs threaten finances. The first thing to consider is whether the car uses gasoline, diesel, or hybrid.
Gasoline-powered buddies are usually faster and have a more powerful drivetrain. Their performance is better compared to a diesel engine. Since the cost of gasoline is too high, you will have to spend more than if you opt for a diesel engine.
Engine type
Although the engines used in trucks serve the same purpose, their degree of efficiency varies. If you’re searching for a smaller payload, a 4-cylinder engine is best. It’s less powerful but will save you money on diesel or gasoline.
Heavy-duty ones are more suitable for complex tasks. They are equipped with V6 or V8 engines. The type of engine loaded in your chosen car determines its drivetrain and fuel costs.
Cabin configuration
The cabin configuration is categorized into extended, standard, and crew cab. The configuration determines the capacity.
Transmission
You must consider driving distances and overall costs when choosing between manual and automatic transmissions. Manual transmission vehicles are cheaper and less expensive to maintain.
Most automatic transmissions come with a 4-speed, 5-speed, or 6-speed transmission.
Front / Rear / All-Wheel Drive
For driving on a dirt trail or up steep hills, all-wheel drive is excellent for pulling a vehicle. A rear or all-wheel drive system is more reliable if you plan to use the pickup for heavy-duty tasks.
For lighter tasks, buying an expensive four-wheel drive car is unnecessary. Pickups with a high gear ratio between the wheels are more fuel efficient because the engine doesn’t have to work harder to spin the drive shaft of the wheels faster.
Body size
A four-door truck has a smaller bed compared to traditional two-door models. The type and size of cargo influence this factor you will be hauling regularly.
A standard bed measures 6.3 and 6.6 feet, while a short bed measures 5.5 and 5.7 feet. To haul bulky cargo, consider buying a car with a long bed measuring 8 to 8.1 feet.
Considering the above factors, you will have the right pickup.
