Dear Truck Trend:

I was going to buy a new GMC this year or next, but I read a rumor that the Detroit Three are coming out with smaller diesels in their half-tons or possibly in even smaller trucks. Since I rarely haul a load, I was interested in a smaller diesel truck. I currently drive a 4.7-liter H.O. Dodge Dakota, but I want to return to GM trucks. Have you heard what may be in store around, say, 2010? I'm looking for something that gets around 20 mpg on a regular basis, maybe even 25 mpg.

William McElhaney
Baltimore, Maryland

Dear Reader,

By the time you're ready to buy a truck in 2010, there should be several small diesels from which to choose, including a 4.5-liter Duramax in the Silverado/Sierra, 5.0-liter Cummins in the Ram, and 4.4-liter in the F-150. The Titan and Tundra also will likely have diesels by then. If you're looking for something smaller, the upcoming Mahindra pickup may fill your needs. If you're interested in SUVs, there will be numerous choices as well. Read about these vehicles and more in "Diesel Revolutions" and "Gasoline vs. Diesel" in the September/October issue of Truck Trend, available by visiting our back issues department Web site at www.primediabackissues.com.
            - Truck Trend