Off Duty, Automotive - Army Times

Tops for 2010: Best new full-size trucks

• 2010 Ford F-series

Base MSRP: $21,380

GM 1500 series trucks pack more power; Dodge Ram 1500s are quicker — but neither can do the work an F-150 can, including pull a class-best 11,300 pounds. Even when equipped with the impressively potent 5.7-liter Hemi V-8, the Ram 1500 can still only pull a maximum of 9,100 pounds. GM’s pick-up is better, with a max rating of 10,700 pounds — but the Ford still wins easily.

The F-truck has the stronger standard engine — a 4.6-liter, 248-horsepower V-8 (even in base “work truck” versions) — versus the V-6s that come standard in the Dodge and Chevy. Yet all are priced about the same, despite deficits in power and towing.

The biggest news is that Ford is reportedly going to offer a diesel engine later in the model year, as well as an “eco boost” version of its 4.6/5.4-liter gas V-8s. Also, for performance-minded buyers, a new (2WD) SVT Raptor with 400-plus horsepower (final stats not yet available), six-speed transmission and sport suspension will be available later in 2010.

• 2010 Toyota Tundra

Base MSRP: $23,155

Major updates for 2010 include a more powerful version of the optional step-up 4.6 liter V-8, which now rates 310 hp and increased towing capacity (up to 10,800 lbs. with the top-of-the-line 5.7 liter, 381 hp V-8). A new “work truck” version with one of the strongest standard V-6s in 1500 series truck (236 hp) also joins the lineup for 2010.