{"id":13552,"date":"2025-04-15T05:32:16","date_gmt":"2025-04-15T05:32:16","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/finderica.com\/?p=13552"},"modified":"2025-04-15T05:32:16","modified_gmt":"2025-04-15T05:32:16","slug":"pickup-truck-buying-guide-truck-types-and-basics","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/finderica.com\/?p=13552","title":{"rendered":"Pickup Truck Buying Guide: Truck Types and Basics"},"content":{"rendered":"
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Pickup trucks have come a long way from their humble, utilitarian beginning. Today\u2019s trucks offer a wide range of trims, sizes, engine options and features \u2014 with some models more rugged and work-focused and others more family-friendly. <\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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Whether you\u2019re buying your first truck or upgrading, this guide can help you determine what type of pickup truck will work best for you.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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Understanding the different truck segments can help you determine the type of truck most suitable for you. <\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n

Full-size pickup trucks <\/span><\/h3>\n
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Also called large trucks, this segment is the most popular in the U.S. They\u2019re built for towing heavier loads, such as campers, trailers, boats or work equipment. They\u2019re often used for work, but they also include luxury trims that can rival high-end SUVs. <\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n

Mid-size pickup trucks <\/span><\/h3>\n
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Slightly larger than compact trucks, mid-size trucks provide a balance of capability and comfort. They can tow moderate loads and offer off-road-focused trims without being too cumbersome for everyday use. <\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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    Notable advantage:<\/span><\/span> When compared to a full-size truck, mid-size trucks can be easier to maneuver and park.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n

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    Examples:<\/span><\/span> The Toyota Tacoma, Ford Ranger and Chevrolet Colorado.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n

    Compact pickup trucks<\/span><\/h3>\n
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    This is the smallest type of truck on the market, and there are relatively few models available. Compact trucks have a unibody construction making them more like a <\/span>crossover SUV<\/span> with a bed for hauling. Drivers who want a vehicle that handles more like a car, as well as more hauling space without the size of a larger truck, may find compact trucks to be a good fit. <\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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      Notable advantage: <\/span><\/span>They\u2019re the least expensive truck type and offer excellent fuel efficiency.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n

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      Examples:<\/span><\/span> The Ford Maverick and Hyundai Santa Cruz.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n

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      Light duty vs. heavy duty trucks: What\u2019s the difference?<\/span><\/h2>\n<\/div>\n
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      In addition to segments, pickup trucks have classifications of light duty and heavy duty based on the gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR). The GVWR is the maximum weight a vehicle can safely carry \u2014 including its passengers, cargo and fuel \u2014 as specified by the manufacturer. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, trucks with a GVWR less than 8,500 pounds are considered light duty, and trucks with a GVWR more than 8,500 pounds are heavy duty<\/span>