Photo : Caleb White via Unsplash
In 2020, pick-up truck sales accounted for nearly 64% of the global market revenue, experiencing a 1% growth compared to market revenues in 2015.
In the US (unlike in China or Europe) pickup trucks are commercially available for the public. They have an important place in the passenger car market.
Passenger trucks are classified into key market segments: heavy-duty, full-size, mid-size, and mini. With so many options available, choosing a pickup truck can sometimes be challenging. So, how do you buy a truck the smart way?
1. Consider Access Features
Getting into a larger pickup truck can sometimes be a challenge because of its height. If you’re looking to buy a heavy-duty, 4-wheel drive pickup truck, make sure it has a side-step or running board to help you and your passengers get into it.
Of course, you can add this feature and others after purchasing the pickup truck. But that’s an unnecessary expense that’ll put a dent in your pocket. So, invest in a truck with a running board to help you get in and out-and easily load items in the cargo area.
2. Buy the Truck You Need
Compared to cars and sports utility vehicles (SUVs), trucks cost an arm. That’s because they are designed to handle hard work. Also, they’re more durable and feature more materials than the light trucks , which include vans and SUVs.
In 2020, Americans bought more pickup trucks than non-luxury passenger cars. In essence, pickup trucks will increase in popularity. So, buy a pickup truck you can use now and in the years to come-a truck that best suits your needs.
Also, choose the best pickup truck you can afford, one that’s within your budget. You can also lease a car and buy it at the end of the lease term. Use a car lease calculator to estimate your monthly payment. It’s a simple way of comparing quotes by different dealerships.
3. 4WD or AWD?
Before you buy a pickup truck, consider whether you want an all-wheel-drive (AWD) or a 4WD. This will depend on where you currently live. Weather conditions play an integral role in choosing a pickup truck that suits your needs. In 2019, sales of 4WDs soared to 49.4% compared to 43% in the preceding year. In other words, their popularity is growing rapidly over the years.
Most buyers go for a cost-effective two-wheel-drive (2WD) pickup truck. But those living in areas that snow prefer a 4WD to an AWD or 2WD. That’s because 4WD systems are more robust and can handle rough terrain with ease.
4. Consider the Towing Capacity
Pickup trucks might look the same on the outside-with an enclosed cabin in the front and an open cargo area in the back-but they differ in towing capacity. Your truck’s towing capacity is the maximum weight it can safely pull.
This capacity changes slightly, depending on the load to tow or how much weight you distribute on the truck. So, it’s prudent to choose a specific model that suits your hauling needs. Always go for a pickup with a higher towing capacity than you need-to avoid causing damage to the vehicle when you exceed its hauling capabilities.
Keyword: How to Buy a Truck the Smart Way