Looking for a New Ride

Yeah living in New England I need something that is 4x4 or AWD. So I'm still thinking small truck or SUV. The Tacoma's aren't bad.

Heavymetal - I probably don't lug plywood or sheet rock a whole lot, but usually every couple months.

If you're doing it that often I'd probably go truck. An SUV is way more versatile but you'd need a small trailer. Depends on the room you have and what you have to haul on a regular basis. Keep in mind that a 4x8 sheet will not fit between the wheel wells in a Tacoma or Ranger bed. It'll also hang out the back. But, that's the same w/ any small truck.
 
Well this is probably a long shot but what about a jetta wagon tdi? Still have a lot room in the back for all your detailing supplies, and for any home renovation projects. And you get 60 mpg, cant beat that!
 
I have to second the GMC or Chevy Colorado/Canyon Get the 4 door and put a teauno on the back or a bed cap... Get the 4x4 version with the I5 any you are set to go aprox 25hwy mpg and cool looking...
 
If you're doing it that often I'd probably go truck. An SUV is way more versatile but you'd need a small trailer. Depends on the room you have and what you have to haul on a regular basis. Keep in mind that a 4x8 sheet will not fit between the wheel wells in a Tacoma or Ranger bed. It'll also hang out the back. But, that's the same w/ any small truck.


Yeah I know it will hang out some which is OK. I'd rather do that then have to cramp it into an SUV. However, I do like some SUVs. I don't know.

I think I just need to go test drive some of the smaller trucks, and check out the new F150 with the V6.

Thanks for the ideas and thoughts. Much appreciated
 
Jason,

I used be of the same mindset; if a 4X8 sheet of plywood didn't fit in the bed with the tailgate shut I didn't want it..

I had to ask myself; just how many sheets of plywood and sheet rock was a carrying a year? The answer was simple, not enough to warrant the additional size of the truck along with the added expense...

The Ford Ranger seems to be the best in fuel economy but don't overlook the diesels. Gallon for gallon diesels get about 30% more fuel economy all else equal. Now the price of diesel is more expensive and not as readily available as gas so you have to do the math.

4 wheel drive also detracts from the mileage...

2011 Ford Ranger Truck | Sturdy, Robust & Capable Pickups Built Ford Tough | Ford.com

Today and for some time now I drive a 1999 Dodge Dakota SLT 4X4. It's a V6 and averages 18mpg from April through October and 15mpg from November through March...or the colder winter months.

It's an in between or mid size and carries quite a lot. I've found it to be very reliable and comfortable and quite frankly hope it lasts another 10 years.....and maybe it will...or not.. :laughing:
 
OR smaller suv and get a personalized trailer to hitch it up to for hauling necessities.

Not sure about your area but I have seen Escapes, Nitros, Liberties, ball park 2008-09 definately less than 20k with all the fixings
 
Jason,

I used be of the same mindset; if a 4X8 sheet of plywood didn't fit in the bed with the tailgate shut I didn't want it..

I had to ask myself; just how many sheets of plywood and sheet rock was a carrying a year? The answer was simple, not enough to warrant the additional size of the truck along with the added expense...

The Ford Ranger seems to be the best in fuel economy but don't overlook the diesels. Gallon for gallon diesels get about 30% more fuel economy all else equal. Now the price of diesel is more expensive and not as readily available as gas so you have to do the math.

4 wheel drive also detracts from the mileage...

2011 Ford Ranger Truck | Sturdy, Robust & Capable Pickups Built Ford Tough | Ford.com

Today and for some time now I drive a 1999 Dodge Dakota SLT 4X4. It's a V6 and averages 18mpg from April through October and 15mpg from November through March...or the colder winter months.

It's an in between or mid size and carries quite a lot. I've found it to be very reliable and comfortable and quite frankly hope it lasts another 10 years.....and maybe it will...or not.. :laughing:

I just don't like the newer Dakotas. I've looked at a few and just don't like the way they look. If I'm going to have to drive this thing every day I want to like it! lol

I really don't like any of the small trucks. After they have been spruced up with some rims or accessories they look good, but the stock versions are just not me. I don't need anything flashy I just want something that has a good look to it and is clean looking. Rims can't be the "work truck" rims that come stock on the new F150s that are under $30k. I'm not looking to drop $45k on a truck! Nor could I even afford to.

Right now I think I'm leaning towards some sort of SUV I think. No clue what though. I'll probably change my mind 100 times before I actually find something I like. We'll see.
 
The good thing about the new F150 V6 version is that it has the eco-boost system on it so you will get the mileage of a V6 and when you need it the power of a V8. That's a pretty nice setup for under 30k but since it's Seejay's money and not mine I say get what you like Seejay and good luck.
 
The good thing about the new F150 V6 version is that it has the eco-boost system on it so you will get the mileage of a V6 and when you need it the power of a V8. That's a pretty nice setup for under 30k but since it's Seejay's money and not mine I say get what you like Seejay and good luck.

LOL I'm not ruling it out yet. I want to at least go test drive one. If I like it I'm sure the dealer can add one some options.

Like I said I can't decide what I want to do. I really like the Jeep Wranglers, but then I'm basically really out for storage and lugging things around. The Tacoma isn't bad either...
 
Right now I think I'm leaning towards some sort of SUV I think. No clue what though. I'll probably change my mind 100 times before I actually find something I like. We'll see.

Check out the RAV4. I have the V6, plenty of power and I get 29 on the highway, around 24 combined. Has enuf room for all my junk with the rear seats down and sits 4 adults and luggage very comfortably. The Honda CRV is also very nice, as is the Ford Escape. Slap a small trailer on it and you got your plywood and hauling for mobile detailing. Bill the trailer to the business.
 
Now Jay, if you are looking at Wranglers, have I got a deal for you. A silver 2007 4 door with the modular hardtop. Power everything, a/c, etc. I accept cash.
 
Now Jay, if you are looking at Wranglers, have I got a deal for you. A silver 2007 4 door with the modular hardtop. Power everything, a/c, etc. I accept cash.


LOL You gonna fix all the leaks first?
 
It was only one little leak and I finally figured out where it came from. Problem is solved. Just put on brand new Goodyear Silent Armour Tires and just paid the car off. I will also accept a cashiers check or a personal check with two forms of ID.
 
It was only one little leak and I finally figured out where it came from. Problem is solved. Just put on brand new Goodyear Silent Armour Tires and just paid the car off. I will also accept a cashiers check or a personal check with two forms of ID.

....would give me an excuse to go to Florida too....
 
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