If you’ve recently made up your mind about buying a new pickup truck, there are a few things you need to consider before you make your purchase. Here, we tell you what factors should affect your decision.
Usage
You need to understand what you will be using your truck for. For instance, if you intend to use your truck to tow large vehicles, you’ll need to buy a larger truck. But, if you just need a truck for driving around town, a small truck would be your best bet.
Towing Capacity
A number of people purchase trucks so they can tow trailers, campers, and other such large vehicles. Not all trucks are built the same way. For instance, the Ford F-150 has a towing capacity of up to 10,000 lbs, while the Tacoma can only tow around 3,500 lbs. That’s a big difference and one that you should take into consideration.
Gas Mileage
Trucks are pretty infamous for having really bad gas mileage, so this is something you should factor in unless you want to be stuck with a gas-guzzling vehicle. Get a truck that gives you at least 31 mpg on freeways and 22 mpg in city driving conditions.
Passenger Capacity
No, trucks are not a good choice if you tend to travel with several co-passenger. But, it’s a good idea to check just how much passenger space the truck offers. Larger models will offer more space, but most trucks are two-person vehicles. If you need enough space for multiple passengers, you may want to get a larger cab model.
Two-Wheel vs. Four-Wheel Drive
A four-wheel drive costs more than a two-wheel drive. But, a four-wheel drive is a good choice if you frequently drive in inclement weather conditions. If you don’t use your truck too often and primarily drive in pleasant weather conditions, you can opt for a two-wheel drive and save money.
Apart from these factors, it’s also important to consider the bed size especially if you frequently move lumber and other such materials, whether the vehicle is automatic or manual, and what features are included with the truck.
