NADAguides.com Announces 2010 Truck Buying Guide

COSTA MESA, Calif., March 18 /PRNewswire/ -- In the midst of today's roller-coaster economy, incentives and rebates are bolstering America's interest in trucks and current research data proves that the needs remain strong because they serve more than one purpose. Whether hauling concrete to the job-site during the week or towing the boat and toy trailer on the weekends, trucks get the job done. Based on this trend, NADAguides.com identified the top trucks in each category to help consumers choose which trucks play just as hard as they work.

"Trucks are an American phenomenon – rugged, dependable and capable of handling just about anything you can throw at them. They are the perfect tool for those with a work hard, play hard attitude," said Michael Caudill, NADAguides.com automotive expert. "Today's trucks are making a comeback and are a far cry from pickups of the past. While continuing to increase towing and payload capacities, manufacturers have made them more refined, comfortable and efficient than ever before."

Mid-Size: 2010 Toyota Tacoma (MSRP $15,345 - $27,250)

While it may not have the torque or capacity to move mountains, the relatively compact size and fuel efficient powertrain options help the Tacoma strike a good balance between all-out workhorse and comfortable daily driver. The powerful V6 engine returns respectable fuel economy (17 city/21 hwy mpg) and allows the Tacoma to tow up to 3,500 lbs. or haul up to 1,350 lbs., which is more than enough for the dirt bikes, ATVs, personal watercraft or home improvement supplies.

Half-Ton: 2010 Ford F-150 (MSRP $21,820 - $46,500)

Since 1982 the F-Series has been America's best selling truck, and the F-150 is a huge reason why. Equipped with the HD Payload Package the F-150 will tow an astonishing 11,300 lbs. and haul up to 3,030 lbs., making it the most capable half-ton pickup on the road. The standard Trailer Sway Control (TSC) works with the vehicle stability system to keep trailer sway in check through selective wheel braking and engine power management.

Three-quarter Ton: 2010 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 HD (MSRP $27,465 - $43,405)

The Duramax Diesel V8 puts out an earth-moving 660 lb-ft of torque, easily pulling the weight of anything up to its 15,800 lb. tow capacity. Properly equipped, the Silverado 2500 HD also has a maximum payload rating of 3,924 lbs. Combine this powerful engine with the proven Allison 1000 six-speed transmission and you have a rock-solid hauler that can tackle the toughest of jobs.

One-Ton: 2010 Ford F-350 Super Duty (MSRP $26,595 – $43,805)

Order the F-350 with the 6.4L Power Stroke V8 Turbo Diesel and you'll be treated to the seemingly limitless capability of 350 hp and 650 lb-ft of torque at a low 2000 RPM. This powerful engine allows the F-350 to offer a towing capacity of 15,000 lbs. and a maximum payload of 5,690 lbs., meaning it could easily carry the weight of an average half-ton truck in its bed. This is not the soot-spewing monster of the past, however. Ford Clean Diesel Technology includes a particulate filter that helps bring emissions in line with those of a similar size and power gasoline engine.

The trucks in each category were chosen based on towing and payload capacities, engine choices, interior amenities, price and fuel economy. Towing and payload capacities vary based on vehicle options, hitch and load type.

With a plethora of diverse and capable trucks on the market, you can find the perfect truck for your work and lifestyle needs. To find the right truck or the right toys to tow please visit www.NADAguides.com and check out the boat, motorcycle or recreational vehicle sections of the NADAguides.com website.

About NADAguides.com

NADAguides.com (http://www.NADAguides.com) is the largest publisher of vehicle pricing and information for new and used cars, classic cars, motorcycles, boats, RVs, and manufactured homes. NADAguides.com offers in-depth shopping and research tools in addition to the most market-reflective pricing available.  The company also produces print guidebooks, software, web services, raw data and web syndicated products.

SOURCE NADAguides.com