Trucks are fantastic vehicles. They are so popular that according to KBB, 47% of American car owners drive one. There is a reason for this. Trucks are very useful for everyday driving and have the power to offer serious utility for work and play. Today, trucks are also a lot more comfortable than the old one on your Grandpa’s farm.
Here are 15 reasons why you should consider owning a truck, even if you never thought about it before.
They’re Great for Towing…
Trucks are the kings of towing. Depending on the model and package, you could tow over 10,000 pounds. That’s enough to handle most work-and-play situations, including pulling a boat or packed trailer.
Car manufacturers also equip trucks with specific technology to make towing easier. These can include cameras and sensors that help correct and adjust the trailer and your driving.
… And Hauling
Modern trucks have sizable beds. A truck bed is the perfect place to store things that otherwise wouldn’t fit in an SUV or car. Add a tonneau cover to keep your things out of sight when in the back. We suggest getting tie-downs, too. Lots of new trucks are equipped with rigging to hook in tie-downs quickly.
The Ride Height is Awesome
Who doesn’t like to see as much of the road as possible? Trucks sit higher than most SUVs and sedans, allowing you to see over traffic to tell what’s going on, making you feel safer.
They Offer Added Safety
Truck passengers remain safer in the event of an accident. According to the IIHS, larger vehicles are safer than smaller ones in collisions due to the higher ride height and overall bigger body. You also have lots of options when it comes to automatic safety systems that drivers enjoy.
Good Gas Mileage
Admittedly, trucks used to have less than excellent gas mileage. But thanks to turbos and evolving engine technology, you can travel much further on a tank of gas. For example, the Hyundai Santa Cruz, Chevrolet Colorado, and Toyota Tacoma get 24 to 25 miles per gallon.
They Have Excellent Off-Roading Abilities
Trucks are better at going off-road than most other vehicles. They are built with more ground clearance, allowing you to avoid obstacles and remain stable on uneven roads. Trucks also have the power and drivetrain to get you through tough situations, even if you get into them on purpose. It’s hard to deny that these are fun vehicles to drive.
Added Luxury
Like most cars, trucks used to be pretty straightforward, but modern trucks have many amenities. Some are practically mobile offices with space for a laptop on the center console. Some models offer heated and ventilated leather seats and state-of-the-art sound systems. There is no shortage of luxury in some trims.
Lower Depreciation
All vehicles lose value over time. It happens the moment you drive away from the dealership. However, trucks lose value more slowly than sedans and SUVs. Part of the reasons for this is their larger, often longer-lasting engines and consistent utility.
They Offer Flexibility
Manufacturers have made trucks much more accessible to drive. Some larger SUVs are even based on truck chassis. They used to be seen strictly on country roads, but now they’re just as suited to urban environments. Whether you live in the country and frequently go off-road or reside in the city, a truck will have you covered.
Trucks Go To Work
Trucks offer lots of work potential. Whether you need to haul an extensive tool collection to the job site or tow a trailer with a riding lawnmower, a truck will be your best friend. An excellent full or mid-size truck is the ultimate work tool for contractors and builders.
Trucks Look Good
There’s something timeless and handsome about trucks. Although some look boxy and square, they certainly grab your attention. Also, did you know that women report being more attracted to men who drive pickup trucks?
They’re Good for Snow
With high ground clearance, sturdy tires, and four-wheel drive, trucks make great vehicles to get through snow easily. Trucks today also have smarter drivetrain systems, which help deliver the right amount of power to the right tires. These are pretty helpful in getting you out of sticky or wet situations.
They’ve Gone Electric
SUVs and sedans aren’t the only vehicles powered by batteries these days. The Ford F-150 Lightning, Chevrolet Silverado EV, and many other trucks need recharging instead of refueling. These trucks still offer serious tow capacity and hauling ability minus the price of gas. We suggest trying one out alongside a gas-powered vehicle.
Work Area
Many trims offer so much flexibility tailored to the tailgate and bed that they become functional work areas. The tailgate on GMC and other car makers’ vehicles transforms into a step to make the bed much easier to access. Some trucks are also equipped with exterior lighting or convenient power plugs located in the bed so you can see what you’re doing at night.
Room for the Family
You might be surprised at how much room you’ll get in the backseat of a crew cab truck. Trucks used to be known for their tiny, sometimes ‘sideways’ back seating. Now, many models are more than capable of fitting three grown men in the back, which is good news if you have a small family. They’ve really come a long way from being farm vehicles.
Would You Consider Owning a Truck?
Trucks have changed a lot over the last couple of decades. These machines were once primarily built for utility purposes. Now, they offer serious comfort, flexibility, and better hauling and towing abilities. Plus, they’re easy on the eyes, too.
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