I'm trying to decide between an XLT with the 2.7 Ecoboost and 5.5' bed (302a package) and an XLT with the 3.5 Ecoboost and 6.5' bed (302a package).

Looks like the price difference would be about $1200, but that isn't my biggest concern.

How I'll use the truck: Commuting, light towing (2 jetskis or up to 4 dirtbikes). I like the larger bed for hauling dirt bikes with the tailgate up, but I think with the truck doing more commuter duties, and parking in a parking garage every weekday that the shorter bed may work better. Also gas savings of the 2.7 vs the 3.5.

Anyone out there that went through a similar decision process? Any regrets/praises for what you decided? Was going to order today, but am still undecided enough that I'm waiting until tomorrow morning.

 

This thread...

fwayne was pretty thorough in his approach in my opinion. May shed some light on your situation.

 

I was in a similar situation aside from the bed length when I bought my truck. I ended up with the 2.7 based on the fact I don't see ever needing to tow over 7000lbs and I really liked the way the 2.7 engine drives. The start stop took a while to get accustomed to but I really don't notice it anymore.

 

Having a 2.7 4x4 with the 3.73 gears I don't need anything else. I don't tow much and also the gas mileage isn't that different from the 3.5. Because the 2.7 has the capability of ha ring higher boost, this can easily lower mpg. I am super happy with the 2.7. As for the bed, I have the 5.5' with the undercover swing case. Parking is a breeze, but the u-turns are horrible, I don't know if that has anything to do with it being 4x4 or not. Overall I love my truck and can't wait for what's to come of it.

 

For your use I would go with the 2.7, 302 package with 5.5 bed. The 6.5 bed truck just don't look right to me. Just my opinion. The 5.5 beds look so much better. Need a longer bed at times, get the bed extender.

Good luck with your purchase!

 

I have 3.5 w/ 5.5 and wish I had gone 3.5 w/ 6.5 bed. I don't think there's really a huge mileage difference between the engines, and I'm a firm believer that it's always better to have 'a little too much truck' rather than 'not quite enough truck'.

 

I'd go 6.5' bed since you'll be hauling stuff. And I'm opposite of the previous poster. I think the 5.5' bed looks funny.

It really depends on what you think of each one and how you'll use it.

 

The 6.5' bed looks pretty funny on the trucks. But if you really need a bed that long and will use that length often, it could make sense. I also like the 2.7 as I learned about how it was built and what changes they made to capitalize on their knowledge of the 3.5 (they had some videos at the dealer). With my 4x4 and 3.55's I averaged 19.6mpg over the first 3 tanks, probably 75% city (not stuck in traffic city, but not freeway). Now, i've since added a 6" lift, wheels/tires so my mileage has dropped about 3mpg. But the power of the 2.7 is certainly not lacking. Consumer reports tested (supposedly) an identical 2.7 vs 3.5 and found the 2.7 to be quicker 0-60 every single time. This is by no means a bash on the 3.5, but I liked the $1200 savings over the 3.5 which paid for my lift. :-)

 

Regardless of looks, did you drive them both? Maneuverability concerns? Parking concerns?

Personally, I think the 6.5' makes the truck look balanced, with the rear tire in the middle of the bed, not at the front.

 

Been there, done that....a matter a fact just today changed my order. Definitely go with your second option. If you're like me then you'll regret not getting the 302a and the 6.5 box.

A screw with the 5.5 box looks more like a SUV with a storage area in back. 6.5 box is a standard bed length for a truck. If you get the sport option the 302a price is cut in half.