The Complete Guide to Truck Sizes: From Compact to Heavy Duty
Truck Size Comparison
| Truck Size | Key Features | Best For |
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| Compact Truck | Great fuel economy, easy to park, lower price point | City driving, light hauling, daily commuting |
| Mid-Size Truck | Balanced capability, comfortable ride, versatile bed size | Weekend projects, outdoor adventures, moderate towing |
| Full-Size Truck | Powerful engines, spacious interiors, heavy towing capacity | Serious hauling, large families, work sites |
| Heavy Duty/Super Duty | Maximum towing, commercial-grade strength, diesel options | Commercial use, extreme towing, heavy payloads |
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Compact TrucksCompact trucks offer the perfect blend of utility and maneuverability for drivers who need truck capabilities without the bulk. These smaller trucks typically feature:
While they may not handle the heaviest jobs, compact trucks are ideal for daily drivers who occasionally need to haul gear, make home improvement store runs, or enjoy outdoor activities. |
Examples of Compact TrucksThe compact truck segment has seen exciting new entries in recent years. Some of the most popular models include:
At McKie Ford, we're particularly excited about the Ford Maverick's combination of efficiency, smart packaging, and surprising capability in a compact package. |
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Mid-Size TrucksMid-size trucks strike an excellent balance between daily drivability and work capability. These trucks typically offer:
For many buyers in the Rapid City area, mid-size trucks provide the perfect combination of weekend adventure capability and weekday practicality. They're large enough to handle most recreational towing needs (boats, campers, ATV trailers) while still being easy to live with every day. |
Examples of Mid-Size TrucksThe mid-size truck market offers several excellent options, including:
The current Ford Ranger stands out with its advanced technology features, including available Ford Co-Pilot360™ driver-assist technologies and an impressive maximum towing capacity of 7,500 pounds when properly equipped. |
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Find Your Perfect Truck at McKie Ford
As Rapid City's trusted Ford dealer since 1938, we're here to help you find the ideal truck for your needs and budget. Visit our showroom at 2500 W Main St, Rapid City, SD or contact us today to schedule a test drive.
Schedule a Test Drive Contact Our Truck Specialists Browse Our Truck Inventory
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Full-Size TrucksFull-size trucks represent the most popular segment in the truck market, offering:
For families who need both passenger space and hauling capability, or contractors who need serious work capacity without stepping up to heavy duty, full-size trucks are the ideal solution. Modern full-size trucks offer car-like comfort with unmatched capability. |
Examples of Full-Size TrucksThe full-size truck segment is highly competitive with several outstanding options:
The Ford F-150 continues to lead the segment with its military-grade aluminum-alloy body, 12 available engines including hybrid and upcoming electric options, and maximum towing capacity of 14,000 pounds with the proper configuration. |
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Super Duty TrucksFord Super Duty trucks (F-250, F-350, F-450) represent the pinnacle of heavy-duty capability:
For commercial operators, ranchers, or anyone who regularly tows heavy trailers (large boats, horse trailers, construction equipment), Super Duty trucks provide the strength and durability needed for the toughest jobs. These trucks are built to work hard day after day while still offering impressive comfort and technology features. |
Examples of Super Duty TrucksThe heavy-duty truck segment is dominated by three main players:
The Ford Super Duty lineup stands apart with features like the available 7.3L gasoline V8, Tremor Off-Road Package, and industry-first Pro Trailer Hitch Assist that makes connecting to trailers remarkably easier. |
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Ford Trucks at McKie Ford
As your trusted Ford dealer in Rapid City, SD, McKie Ford offers a comprehensive selection of new and used trucks across all size categories. Here are some of our most popular Ford truck models:
Frequently Asked Questions
These terms originate from payload capacities but have evolved. Today, half-ton trucks (like the F-150) typically handle payloads of 1,500-3,000 lbs, three-quarter-ton (F-250) 3,000-4,000 lbs, and one-ton (F-350) 4,000+ lbs. Modern trucks far exceed these original classifications.
Consider your heaviest trailer (including cargo) and add a safety margin. For example, if your boat trailer weighs 6,000 lbs loaded, look for a truck rated for at least 7,500-8,000 lbs. Our McKie Ford sales team can help you calculate your exact needs.
Compact trucks can perform well in winter with proper tires and optional AWD/4WD systems. However, mid-size or full-size trucks typically offer more weight and stability in severe conditions. We recommend test driving different sizes to see what feels most comfortable for your needs.
Compact trucks typically achieve 22-30 MPG, mid-size 18-24 MPG, full-size 17-22 MPG, and heavy duty diesels 14-20 MPG. However, specific engines make a big difference - our EcoBoost engines often deliver better mileage than larger V8s while maintaining strong performance.
Both have advantages. New trucks offer the latest features, full warranties, and often better financing rates. Used trucks cost less upfront but may lack recent innovations. Our McKie Ford team can help you evaluate the total cost of ownership for your specific situation.
