I completely agree with Senor Peetz. I'm on my second pickup and can't imagine not having one. I took a break from them for a V70R and an XC60, but found myself back in one again. Doing a lot of work on my own home, picking up car parts, towing things...it's just too convenient.

I have a 2011 F150 FX4 Ecoboost and LOVE IT!!!. MPG could be a bit better, but with twin turbos and a 4" cat-back, I can't help putting my foot in it. If you don't need a brand-new, full-size truck, I would definitely go with a Dodge. They make the best small truck with regards to size and engine choices. Interiors suck, but oh well. The new Ford Rangers are coming out next year, but will probably be $$.

That being said, I put an 18' car hauler on my insurance policy and it didn't cost me anything. I guess it depends on your company, policy, and coverage levels. But I do have to pay excise taxes and store it someplace. A truck can be parked on the road and left there for a while (unless you live in an anally retentive place), whereas a trailer cannot (ESPECIALLY if you live in an annaly retentive place).