Truck Buying Recommendations

[Chin Diesel]

It's that time of month. A BY'er canvassing the board for vehicle recommendations.

I'm looking for a full-size pick up truck.

A bit of background. Yes, like 95% of personal truck owners, I will not be using the truck as a truck a majority of the time. It will be used as a daily driver and for weekend chores.

There will be legitimate off road use though. Not just dirt roads but on open fields where mud, ruts and some tree branches are the norm.

I'm far enough south that snow driving isn't an issue.

The mid-size truck market isn't going it for me- I've previously owned a Tacoma but I want bigger.

I'd prefer gas over diesel if for no other reason than long-term maintenance course. Same reason I prefer naturally aspirated over turbo engines. But, I'm willing to listen.

A new truck with the features I want is more than I'm willing to pay. I could pay the price for a new truck, I just don't see the need to do it. So, a used 2022-2024 is a sweet spot for me.

I'm leaning towards a RAM1500 with the 5.7 Hemi and the e-torque electric motor assist.

I can't see myself in a Titan.

So, RAM 1500? F-150? Chevy or GMC 1500? Tundra?

 

[District-Husky]

1981 thru 1988 F150 straight 6 300 ci 4 speed .

Exactly! Regular cab and long bed.

 

[WhereistheDove?]

This is the only rational answer.

 

[Dove]

I have a 13 year old Ridgeline w 200k miles on it and love it. Not a serious off road or towing vehicle but since I don't use it for that, no matter to me. If you are a suburban/country boy who needs to haul mulch or transport a lawn tractor or throw the kids sports equipment in the back, it works great. My buddy is/was a big F150 guy but after driving my Ridgeline he bought one himself. Superior handling and ride. I even drive it into NYC without issue. Never have done anything but regular maintenance, good in the snow in Northern Westchester and pretty good mpg. Not a beast but a very utilitarian vehicle. Spacious, well thought out interior and the under the bed storage bin is a lifesaver. Not what the OP needs but it's great for what I need it for.

@Chin Diesel original post said that he would use the truck for every day driving and weekend chores. Also, occasional jaunts in a mucky field.

Enter the Ridgeline.

 

[husky429]

No matter which full-size pickup you choose, you'll need a stepladder to enter and exit the cab

I lifted my Jeep 3 inches a while back. My 5' wife crawls into it like you would roll over a chain link fence. It's wonderful and hilarious

 

[huskiesNhoos]

I'll be at the SA Toyota factory that makes some of the Tundras next week...I'll be sure to ask them why they suck for folks in this thread

 

[Chin Diesel]

This is the only rational answer.

View attachment 105191

The Honda SUV I had last week in Japan was smaller than that.

 

[Chin Diesel]

@HuskyHawk, since you mentioned The Tracker in the TV binge thread and how he drives an all black truck, I'm testing this one out today.

2023 RAM 1500 Rebel.

 

[DennieEddy]

Shouldn't there be a separate thread for truck buying?

 

[Chin Diesel]

Ended up getting a 2023 RAM 1500 Laramie. 14.3k miles and in great condition. Black on black, leather and all the bells and whistles. Hemi 5.7L with eTorque.
Spent about 10 weeks off and on looking and driving and this was an easy decision.

Pics tomorrow.

 

[Chin Diesel]

Gotta get some side steps and it will be good to go

 

[HuskyHawk]

Gotta get some side steps and it will be good to go

View attachment 105235

Sweet. I like the wheels.