Which mid-size to buy?
 

Hello,
I am in the market for a new vehicle and would like to get a mid-size pickup. I have never owned a pickup truck.

I would like something capable of hauling my Honda Rancher ATV as payload. I would also like something with some off road capabilities. Mostly for getting to ATV trails. I am thinking 4x4 is a must.

I am comparing the following 2010 models:
Nissan Frontier v6 4x4
Toyota Tacoma v6 4x4
Ford Ranger v6 4x4

A little ability to tow is good too because I might get a camper in the future.

So far I am leaning most towards the Tacoma with the access cab. The Ranger seems to offer more options at a comparable price.

I would like advice, and as many comments/comparisons as possible on these vehicles. Other vehicle suggestions are welcome.

I would like something 1/2 way decent on fuel; if possible. I'm not expecting a prius. However, I currently own a 2008 Rav4 and get about 26mpg. So this is what I am comparing to.

I am also up in the air on, which cab to get.

Let the GREAT DEBATE begin!!!!!!!

Thanks.

Forgive me for not completely answering your question, but I am not a fan of midsize trucks. I have never been a fan of the "little trucks".

I feel like in today's world, the difference between a full size and mid-size pickup is so huge that when buying one of those little trucks, you are really buying a car. I feel like I will never be satisfied with a 200hp 4 banger in a truck with a small cab, no leg room, and minimal payload/towing capacity that gets 22mpg is in no way better than a 315hp V8 with a huge cab, comfortable seating capacity, and the ability to throw whatever you want in the back and still get 20 mpg.

As far as I'm concerned, the only upside to a little truck is that it may be a little easier to park and corner.

Welcome to the forum by the way, and I'm sure someone else will be able to comment on this one.

Thanks, but I am not interested in a full size. They cost more ($$$), have worse gas mileage, and is more excessive power than I need. All I need is to be able to haul my ATV, and get back and forth to work. Maybe some off-roading too.

Yeah I gotcha... It's just my opinion on the matter... I don't like to be cramped :) Anyways, hopefully some of the other guys will chime in because I know absolutely nothing about the Japanese trucks and I hate Ford.

I'm not totally against considering the 2010 Silverado. However, I think the 22 mpg for a v8 is a gimmick! Especially with any ability to tow, or with 4x4. That is where I see the big difference between the full-size, and mid-size trucks.

You can get a fully stacked (4x4, tow package, etc) mid-size truck and still get decent MPG. If you get all those options on a full-size, your MPG goes down dramatically.

I would go with the tacoma even though i own a colorado. Unless you feel like dishing out the money for a colorado 4x4 with the 5.3 liter but I don't think they are all that great on gas.

Hello,

All three trucks work for ATV trails and light towing. Pick the one with the cab and bed that fits your needs.

Always get a vehicle inspection report before buying. This will show past issues, accidents, and maintenance history.