Section 179 Deduction

[ncrunch32]

I have about 7,000 lbs to tow based on total trailer + tractor + implement weight. I am currently towing using my Jeep Cherokee Limited with 6200 lb tow capacity (just local and very slowly early in the morning). I am thinking of taking advantage of the federal deduction of up to $25,000 for a new pickup with more than 6500 lbs gvw.

I also would like to run occasional 300 mile trips to DC or Buffalo NY for personal use (my other vehicle is a 2002 Forester with 120,000 miles) so I would like the pickup to be as economical as possible. I might do 6 trips per year like this.

Any suggestions as to a reliable and "fuel efficient" pickup greater than 6500 lb gvw, and that can tow 10,000 lbs?

Joe

 

[Diamondpilot]

You are a prime candidate for a F-150 Eco Boost. My father has one and its got the 3.5 L Twin Turbo Eco Boost motor, 4x4, SuperCrew Cab, and 3.73 gears rated to tow 11,300# with a GVWR of 7,700#. Its FX4 trim package and is about the most comfortable vehicle I have ever driven, car or truck. Its got just over 13,000 miles and has averaged about 18.5mpg since new. It will do about 4 mpg better than my 08 Nissan Titan with the 5.6L V8 either loaded or unloaded. This has been verified a few times with boats, 20' box trailers, car haul trailers, and just plain unloaded.

I have driven it on 60 mph state highways and seen about 23 mpg but on the freeway at 75 mph its about 18 mpg.

Take a look, you will be impressed and at the end of the day you will get the same or better mpg then your Cherokee with much much more capability.

Here is some info on one of our tows. http://www.tractorbynet.com/forums/trailers-transportation/241897-f-150-eco-boost-towing.html

Chris

 

[TheGoose]

Mine gets about 16 mpg at 75 mph. We do have 10% ethanol. I'm avg. about 17 mpg overall.

 

[ncrunch32]

Thank you for your comments. I think I will check out this eco boost!

Joe

 

[mikehaugen]

just about any new 1/2 ton will do better than your cherokee for fuel mileage. Everyone I know that has one (with a v8 anyway) complains that they get around 14-15 mpg average- whether it be 5.2, 5.9, 4.6, or hemi- none of them are good.