Hey all, been dreaming of a raptor for some time and now might be the time...
I just got a killer promotion and will be moving to West Texas. Also in the same week my wife and I found out we are having a baby. My '14 extended cab Sierra needs to go in exchange for something with a crew cab.
I'm torn, however. While I still drool over the raptor, it doesn't scream "family vehicle". This will be the only vehicle my wife and I have, other than my company car. Primary usage will be around town, frequent 4+ hour road trips, and the occasional trip into the mountains to hunt. Hoping there's some opportunity to hop into NM for some off-roading if I go the Raptor route.
Also in consideration is a Sierra 1500 AT4 with the 3.0 Duramax. Total budget for either vehicle is around $60k. This would get me a used '19 Raptor or a new AT4 with every bell and whistle. The AT4 is appealing from the standpoint of fuel economy (let's assume diesel and 91 octane are the same price) and towing capacity. While I like the idea of towing a travel trailer, it's not something that will likely happen anytime soon. Below are a few highlights that stand out to me:
Raptor:
Pro - Power and torque are both higher
Pro - appears to have more spacious back seat
Pro - off road capability is vastly superior
Con - fuel economy
Con - will be purchased used
Sierra AT4:
Pro - brand new with warranty (would likely put an aftermarket warranty on raptor as well)
Pro - fuel economy
Pro - the 3.0 Duramax I've driven is really nice - tons of torque at low rpm
Pro - more "family oriented"
Con - not great offroad
Con - Doesn't have as much cool factor
What do y'all think? Convince me that I need the Raptor!