Truck vs SUV: How Do You Choose?

Trucks and SUVs are American staples. But which one is best for you? Check out which vehicles have the best comfort, towing capacity, fuel economy and driveability.
Written by Elaine Duvet
Reviewed by Kathleen Flear
Trucks and
SUVs
are both large utility vehicles that add comfort, convenience, and practicality to our lives. But which one is the best fit for your lifestyle?
Check out the pros and cons of each type of car before you
purchase
your next vehicle.

Why you should get a truck

Known for their impressive towing performance, trucks don’t always have the best fuel economy. When looking for a new pickup, try to aim for an EPA of at least 25 mpg. Typically, the bigger your truck, the less fuel-efficient you can expect it to be.
Consider if you’ll be using your vehicle for work. If part of your job requires hauling building materials, painting supplies, or tools that get dirty, a full-size truck will be your best friend. 
If you don’t need a large towing capacity and have smaller tools, you can get away with a less expensive midsize pickup. An exterior bed is a multi-purpose advantage, but drivers do lose out on roomy seating in the cabin. 
For small children, a larger truck like a crew cab can seat five people. But, since the exterior bed will be shorter, you will have to give up some towing capacity.
If the area you live in is prone to lots of snow, a sedan or hatchback may not cut it. Winter tires can only get you so far. Additional ground clearance is a must for plowing through 10 inches of fresh powder.
Do you seek a life full of adventure and off-roading? Trucks are perfect for those who enjoy taking the road less traveled. Four-wheel drive will ensure that your pickup doesn’t get stuck in rough terrain.  
And if you’re going on vacation, a pickup is certainly an excellent choice to haul a ski boat or Winnebago Hike 100.
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Why you should get an SUV

Though often more expensive than trucks, SUVs provide ample seating and better gas mileage. Drivers who prioritize convenience and driveability love their midsize SUVs. 
It’s tricky to fit more than one car seat in a sedan, so if you’ve got two or more children that need a special seat, an SUV will be much more accommodating. It also has the potential to provide infotainment, USB ports, and Wi-Fi hotspots for the whole family. 
If you have more than five members in your immediate family, it’s pretty clear that you’ll need an SUV with three rows. Three-row vehicles like the Highlander, Honda Pilot, or the Ascent can seat up to eight people. In some cases, you may even need a minivan. 
If four-legged friends are also a part of your family, an SUV can provide much more comfort. And if your dog is a large breed, they’ll appreciate the extra height. 
For elderly family members, an SUV will also be easier to get in and out of, as opposed to a truck with high ground clearance. You’ll also enjoy more maneuverability, as SUVs have a larger turn radius than trucks and softer suspension.

Which is the better vehicle?

There is no wrong answer, as purchasing a car comes down to necessity and personal preference. Are you more interested in towing capacity and powerful performance? Or do you want an SUV with great fuel economy on long family road trips?
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