Looking for a new truck? Don’t know where to start? First: understand what you need; second: continue reading.

If you were to walk in to a dealership and say “I’m looking for a new truck” the reply likely will be “Can you be more specific?” While it used to be that truck buyers were only those who needed a strong load-carrying truck. That hasn’t been the case in years, though. Now, truck shoppers may just want something for the occasional trip to Home Depot, for camping, or just appreciate the utility a truck offers.

This means that there are an enormous amount of options for people looking for a truck, from light trucks, sport utility trucks, to heavy trucks. To then make a recommended list of 2008 trucks, ideally a list would be created for every desire. One for the person who wants to do a little off-roading, one for the contractor who looks at his truck like a valuable employee. So, below is our list of top trucks divided into two categories, Work and Play.

Top 2008 Work Trucks

1. GMC Sierra - The Sierra offers a number of options which help this truck stand out. Though this can greatly affect the purchase price, the resulting vehicle is still a value when considering the low cost of maintenance and overall ownership (as predicted by Intellichoice).

The GMC Sierra offers excellent safety and comfort along with its ability to offer plenty of power with the V8 option. Accelaration and handling are very good. As long as you pony-up for the options you’ll need for the demands you’ll place on the Sierra, it’ll serve you well.

We like the exterior of the GMC Sierra. Considering the similarities with the Sierra and Silverado, the exterior design is what pushed it on top for us.

2. Chevrolet Silverado - It’s almost unfair to list both the Silverado and Sierra since they share so much in common. Like the Sierra you can add options to ensure the truck will meet your needs, from bed variants, 2 or 4 wheel drive, and engine options to add power. The 2007 version won Motor Trend’s Truck of the Year award.

The Silverado shares the basic cost structure with the Sierra as wells, both start at $17,175. Both also get 15 mpg city, and 20 on the highway.

3. Toyota Tundra - The Tundra’s starting price is a good deal higher than our #1 and 2 at over $22,000. It’s a solid truck all-around offering plenty of space. The Tundra performs well, and with it’s own catalog of options like a 5.7L V8 engine, it can compete with the above models. The downside will be price. It does feel like the ride, handling and performance in the Tundra is comparable with our leaders, but you end up paying more.

Top 2008 Play Trucks

1. Hummer H2 SUT - Are we kidding? No. The H2 SUT is a fun truck. The bed isn’t big enough for a lot of demands, but it’ll fit your groceries and new washing machine, and, we have to admit, we think it looks cool. Sure, we’re waiting for the H4 (a Jeep Wrangler competitor) to hit the market and take over the #1 spot, but until then we’ll put the H2 SUT here.

It will empty your pocket with its $54,000+ price tag, and you better not just drive around the city with it! Save up for fuel costs.

2. Honda Ridgeline - The truck that drives like a car. If you are looking for the utility of a truck, but will not be placing major demands on it, the Ridgeline is a great choice. Plenty of room, storage options, comfort and an enjoyable ride make it an easy choice. With a starting price of $28,000 it’ll run you more that most light trucks.

3. Chevrolet Avalanche - If you find the Ridgeline appealing, also consider the Avalanche. It has a heavier feel that Honda’s Ridgeline, and starts at over $32,000. The Avalanche is well-suited for towing and is highly versatile with a fold-down rear midgate, and removable rear window, creating a long truck bed.

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