Mini Truck

Mini trucks deliver big performance

Some people are simply truck people. They have always pictured themselves driving a truck and will continue to drive a truck despite rising gas prices. These individuals want comfortable, affordable pickups that they can use as their daily drivers, but with the added benefit of increased utility. Since they don't intend to use their pickups for heavy hauling or towing, the mini truck becomes an appealing choice.

The Mini Truck vs. the Full-Sized Truck

Many people may have trouble deciding between purchasing a small- or full-sized pickup. They may value the larger bed utility of the full-size, but like the affordable price of the mini truck. To help make your decision, check out the pros and cons of both:

PROS

• Affordability - Mini trucks cost less than full-size pickups.
• Better gas mileage - A smaller engine means you'll be spending less time and money at the pumps.
• Easier to maneuver - With a mini, there is less truck to maneuver around obstacles and they'll fit nicer into parking spots and garages.

CONS

• Less power - A smaller truck means a smaller engine with less horsepower and torque.
• Less hauling / towing capacity - Smaller trucks will no doubt get the majority of jobs done, but there are just some tasks that need to be left to the big guys.
• Smaller bed - With a smaller bed than full-sized trucks, you won't be able to fit as much cargo into the back of the pickup.

The Battle of the Minis

Of all the mini trucks on the market, here is the pick of the litter for 2007. These trucks are rated based on performance, style, fuel economy and price:

• Chevrolet Colorado: The Colorado has two engine choices (new for 2007) and a host of options. Choose between the 2.9-liter, 185-horsepower engine or the more powerful 3.7-liter, 242-horsepower engine. The optional goodies include keyless entry, XM radio, bucket seats, fog lamps, running boards, 15-inch chrome-finished aluminum wheels, and power and heated leather seats. If you prefer something that's more of a sport truck, then you'll love the Colorado Xtreme - it comes with lowered suspension, body moldings and a tailgate spoiler. Depending on the model, the Colorado has a fuel economy of 16 to 20 m.p.g. city and 22 to 26 m.p.g. highway. Base Price: $14,770.
• Ford Ranger: The Ranger is Ford's popular compact truck. It's a great choice if all you need is pure utility - you can get a bare-bones model for that. The Ranger has always been one of the best small trucks in terms of gas mileage. Models with the 2.3-liter, 143-horsepower engine manage 24 m.p.g. city and 29 m.p.g. highway. The other engine choices include 3.0-liter, 148 horsepower and 4.0-liter, 207-horsepower. The 2007 Ranger also has three new safety features: SecuriLock anti-theft system, Personal Safety System and tire pressure monitoring. Base Price: $13,970.
• Dodge Dakota: The 2007 Dakota sports a much bigger and tougher design which is very similar to the full-sized Ram. Choices of 3.7-liter V6 or 4.7-liter, 230-horsepower V8 engines are available for 2007, with one V8 able to run on ethanol E85 fuel. Some new features include stain-resistant fabric, a dual-position tailgate and remote start. Choose between the Club Cab and Quad Cab, which is able to seat six passengers. The Dakota has a fuel economy of 15 to 16 m.p.g. city and 19 to 22 m.p.g. highway. Base Price: $20,015.

It used to be we could depend on the reputation and reliability of North American cars to meet our standards - but could it be the times are changing? Here in the U.S., overseas models are continuing to rise in popularity. Find out why!

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