bare minimum truck

...............I'd drive and evaluate a Ford V10 , maybe 2002 up too 2006 ! They get fairly decent milage and they are a real puller when it's time too move or haul a load . A small V6 engine , when worked very hard is going too get V8 fuel milage . My additude is always buy one size bigger than you think , you need . You'll never regret having a little extra truck when a big load needs hauling . , fordy

If you're aiming for new, take a look at the GM trucks, they have some thing now where you can turn off some cylinders for everyday travel, and turn them on when you need more power. I don't know a whole lot about it, just know hubby was peeved that it came out on the '10 models right after we bought our '09.

That's the 5.3 liter.

I have a friend with a new Z71. With a K&N air filter, it gets 18 on the highway.

Meloc
I think you hit a key
What works for you and you are comfortable with.
Me Ive driven millons of miles in manual tranny trucks 13sps, 10,7, 18 20 ,25 and at leas one with over 100 gears.
LOl Ive had my share Ill take a auto.
Better yet ...BEAM ME UP SCOTTY!