Trucks for small businesses – how do they compare?

Looking at the Philippine landscape for small businesses, it's clear to see that there are a lot of vehicle options readily available to meet the needs of business owners in the country. While more utilitarian-focused offerings are plentiful, some business owners will need a vehicle that can be used for work and as a daily driver. This is where pickup trucks come into the equation as they can be used for both business and play. These vehicles have evolved past their more utilitarian-focused selves and have become lifestyle vehicles that you can use on the farm and off the beaten path. 

Finding specifications for trucks now isn’t as hard as before, since our list of options here at AutoDeal is pretty comprehensive. Also, consider the reviews that we do to get a better idea of the quality and features that each model provides for consumers. There is a multitude of options to sift through, from more premium trucks to the more affordably priced options, there are many options for your hard-earned Peso. The list we’ve compiled is in no particular order since everyone has their preferences, and of course, torque figures are what you need to consider especially if you need to carry heavier items. All of these trucks are in the midsize pickup body style, they also come with diesel engines to ensure fuel savings and hauling capacity.

We start with the Ford Ranger and its many variant offerings. Since the pickup truck is one of the symbols of the United States of America when it comes to cars, let’s kick off this list with something American. It can bear a load as heavy as 1,120 kg. With the technology that the Ranger offers, it is a viable option if you want something that will allow you to get the job done comfortably. While there is a 2.2-liter turbo diesel that is available for the pickup truck, the one to go for is the 2.0-liter bi-turbo power plant. This engine may be small but it is capable of pushing out 500 Nm of torque, you won’t find this truck lacking in almost any situation when you need to bring big and heavy items with you. It also has one of the largest beds in the segment with 1,234 Liters of space to boot. The top-of-the-line trim also comes with features that will keep your family comfortable such as its infotainment system. To top it all off, the interior isn’t too shabby either.

The bread and butter of the industry, the Toyota Hilux stands the test of time, and of course, it is a Toyota, so it will continue to run even in the most demanding terrains and locations. The newest model in the Conquest trim looks the business, and as an all-around vehicle, it can transition from going to family functions to hauling goods for your business. The chassis of the truck allows you to take a load of 1,000 kg. Torque is rated at 450 Nm which makes this truck a capable hauler. All that is coming from a 2.8-liter diesel engine, that is shared between the 4x4 models. Though if you opt for the smaller displacement 2.4-liter diesel found in the 4x2 units, then expect a figure of 400 Nm, which is still sizable for its class. Also quite sizable is the 1,204 liters of space found behind the cab. As a purely practical option, this can take the heat. Though it isn’t the most feature-packed, it does carry a Toyota badge, so that’s another item to consider.

Next on the list is the Mitsubishi Strada, which takes the cake for most radical redesign. It shares the same engine as the Montero, and produces figures that are comparable. Its 2.4L MIVEC diesel engine is capable of a torque figure of 430 Nm. It is also capable of hauling up to 945 kg of payload and has a 1,061L bed. Even if this has a smaller payload, and the space at the back isn’t as large, inside the Strada features a redesigned interior, and looks-wise, it is the most futuristic of the bunch which can be good if you are looking to transition from work to play. The front lends itself well to the atmosphere of higher class environments, and we’re sure it’ll turn a few heads – including yours – for better or for worse. 

On to the popular choice on Autodeal. The Nissan Navara is without a doubt, one of our best selling models in terms of pickup trucks. Many have already gone with this choice, so there has to be a good reason for this. With an engine that is 2.5L, the diesel mill is capable of producing 450 Nm. This vehicle is capable of hauling a total of 964 kg worth of payload, and can fit a total of 1,113L in its cargo area. Now the specs are not class leading, however you would be most comfortable in the Navara. The model has long been praised for having a very car-like ride even if it is a pickup truck. With a multi-link rear suspension it glides effortlessly over bumps and potholes, ensuring a ride that would be the envy of other brands that offer a different suspension setup. 

It's an open secret that the Mazda BT-50 now has Isuzu D-MAX underpinnings. That being said, however, this all works out to the benefit of the pickup truck as it is now sturdier than ever thanks to its new chassis. Under the hood, now sits a 3.0-liter turbocharged diesel engine that produces 187 hp and 450 Nm of torque. While this is a little bit less than its predecessor you can rest assured that this engine will last as it is the same one found in its sister the D-MAX. 

Last but certainly not least we have the Isuzu D-MAX. Known for their near-legendary reliability, these pickup trucks can take a beating and still keep on kicking. The D-Max comes with a 3.0-liter diesel engine that produces 450 Nm of torque, not bad considering the price. With a payload capacity of about 1,058 kg a, it has an edge over its rivals, namely its price point. Reliable performance is not alien to Isuzu, and so is robustness. For those looking for a smaller yet fuel-efficient engine, there is also a 1.9-liter powerplant available for select variants. 

Prices and promos are available and linked in the articles. If you need a capable hauler, that can take you, your wife, and kids to work and school respectively, any one of these trucks would serve your needs nicely. On that note, all these models feature only diesel engines, so no matter what you get, you are assured of the torque and fuel savings regardless of rising gas prices since diesel has always been cheaper here in this country.