It is a huge decision for most people; choosing a vehicle which fits your needs. And remember we said needs, not necessarily desires. Though certainly both areas should be considered as you contemplate this important purchase.
So what are the most important qualifications when it comes to the features of your next pickup.
There are 3 sizes of truck
Compact truck – Which is smaller than a full size truck with usually up to a 3,000 lbs towing capability. If you plan on hauling any thing heavier you need to step it up to a mid size truck.
Mid size - This truck is a mix of compact and full size with a towing range from 3,000 to 7,000 lbs . Mid size trucks are great middle of the road choice for many buyers.
Full size – ‘King of the road’ This truck is what you will need to haul those heavy loads. Perfect for farmers and construction workers at 8,oo0 to 18,000 total lbs. of total towing capability these vehicles can handle pretty much anything you throw their way.
Engine Selections
In most compact vehicles you will find 4 cylinders and 6 cylinders. These engines save you at the pump but can limit the owner when it comes to horsepower and towing capabilities.
In most full size trucks you’ll have six, eight, and even ten cylinders. These truck are work horses trucks not just for daily driving; they are perfect for hauling heavy trailers, towing and hauling materials. These trucks generally rate poor on gas mileage but deliver performance that there smaller counterparts simply cannot.
Drive train options
Most trucks on the market are available with either a manual or automatic transmission and your choice of two wheel drive or four wheel drive. You’ll find many trucks offer limited-slip or locking differentials and electronic traction control. Improved safety options are becoming increasingly popular on new pickup trucks.
The right truck for your seating needs
Standard – No second row seat and very little storage room. This cab hold s 3 people safely.
Extended – This cab usually has a bench seat in the back. It has good storage room and the truck can hold six people safely though when loaded down with passengers they might find themselves a little cramped.
Crew cab – This option has full second row seating with 4-doors that swing open towards the front. Crew cabs are gaining in popularity as more and more buyers use pickup trucks as their primary vehicle. Some even have enough room for the back seats to recline. This cab holds six people comfortably.
Truck bed configurations
Step side - These trucks have flared fenders with the flares providing space for the rear wheels. Stepsides have straight edges along all interior bed sides but you will lose the short spaces in line with the wheel arches in a standard box.
Straight bed -A typical truck cargo box has fairly straight exterior sides with arched areas just inside the bed to accommodate the rear wheels. There’s room to tuck shorter cargo in the spaces in front of and behind each arch.
How long should your truck bed be?
Pickup trucks are available in variety of bed lengths from about five to eight feet.
You’ll need a long bed truck to haul building supplies or other cargo of significant length. If you haul heavy and bulky items most owners can get by with a shorter bed, but you’ll need a truck that will handle the weight.
Lets talk budget
Yes, we have to. Like anything truck prices have a wide variance , with full size base models and some compacts starting well under $20,000. Luxury and performance trucks typically cost considerably more (although you’ll find some deals during the current economic downturn our country is facing). It might be a good idea to ask yourself if you really need a truck for hauling or for typical driving when trying to make a decision regarding the price tag.
Whatever the choice your selection of the right truck for you is often not just an indication of your needs but also a direct reflection on your personality.
