Top 10 Pickups

Ford Ranger

The Ranger was introduced in 1982, redesigned in 1993, and then received a new exterior design in 1998. While the 2009 Ranger remains unchanged, last year the compact pickup received minor updates including an improved front-bumper design for better fuel-efficiency, more standard safety equipment and service intervals extended to 7,500 miles. The Ranger is available with a 207-horsepower V6 or a 143-horsepower 4-cylinder engine. When equipped with the smaller powerplant, the Ranger is the most fuel-efficient pickup truck available, getting an EPA-estimated 21 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway. This summer, look for a revised 2010 Ranger with a number of new safety features, including AdvanceTrac with Roll Stability Control as well as new side airbags.

Compare pricing and features: Ranger vs. Canyon

Nissan Frontier

Redesigned in 2005, the Frontier midsize pickup takes styling cues from the full-size Titan, and also shares the suspension layout and many component designs with the larger truck. Two powerplants are available, including a fuel-efficient 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine and a more powerful 4.0-liter V6 producing 261 horsepower. For 2009 the Frontier gets exterior updates including a new grille, front fascia, headlight design and 16-inch and 18-inch wheels. The PRO-4X off-road version is added, as well as Frontier Crew Cab LE/PRO-4X Value Truck Packages.

Compare pricing and features: Frontier vs. Dakota

Dodge Dakota

Redesigned for 2008, the Dakota is offered in Extended Cab and Quad Cab versions. At the time it received improved performance, better ride quality and innovative utility, as well as an all-new 4.7-liter V8 engine that produces 302 horsepower and 329 lb-ft of torque while achieving a 5 percent increase in fuel economy. Inside, the Dakota got a new instrument panel, center console and accent finishes. Crew Cabs offer an innovative, collapsible Crate ‘N Go removable under-seat cargo management system. A new Big Horn/Lone Star trim level replaces the SXT for 2009 and features the Crate ‘N Go system as standard equipment.

Compare pricing and features: Dakota vs. Tacoma

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Chevrolet Colorado

The Colorado is Chevrolet’s midsize pickup truck, available in Regular Cab, Extended Cab and Crew Cab versions. It joined the Chevrolet lineup in 2004, replacing the aged S-10 pickup. Buyers have a choice of a 2.9-liter 4-cylinder or 3.7-liter 5-cylinder engine — both providing respectable EPA fuel economy in the low 20s — or a newly available 300-horsepower 5.3-liter V8. Other updates for 2009 include a new brake system for better stopping power and improved pedal feel, as well as an available ZQ8 sport suspension offered with lower ride height, 18-inch split-spoke aluminum wheels, performance tires, color-keyed bumpers, color-keyed grille with chrome surround, unique seats and a standard 5.3-liter V8 engine.

Compare pricing and features: Colorado vs. Frontier

Discuss:  Domestic pickups still dominate the sales charts, but have the imports closed the gap enough to for you to consider making the switch?

GMC Sierra 1500

Twin to the Chevrolet Silverado, the GMC Sierra is available in Regular Cab, Extended Cab and Crew Cab versions with a choice of three different box sizes: 5 feet 8 inches, 6 feet 6 inches and 8 feet. The Sierra received a complete redesign a few years ago with a stronger and stiffer fully boxed frame, restyled exterior and more spacious interior. For 2009, the Sierra gets a new 6-speed automatic transmission paired with the 5.3-liter, 6.0-liter and 6.2-liter engines. A more powerful E85-capable 6.2-liter V8 engine is available on the SLT Crew Cab.

Perry Stern's automotive career began 18 years ago as an advisor at a vehicle consulting firm. One of the original staff members of CarPoint, Microsoft's automotive Web site that launched in 1995, he became editor of the site in 2002, which is now known as MSN Autos. Stern has also contributed to MSNBC and various MSN properties in Canada, Japan and Europe.

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