2018+ full size truck...

going to be lunging head-first into the market in the very near future, so i've been "internet researching" and such for a period of time that seems like forever to my pudding brain. i'd really like some input on, i'll call it "the optimal configuration" i should be looking for... looking for a tow rating of around (as close to or rated at) 10k lbs, the rest is just "gravy"- looking to go used.

thanks gang.

 

You need a 2500 or 3500. If you use the truck mainly for towing in the mountains, you will be happiest with the Duramax diesel. If the towing is occasional and not that much mountain driving, a gas engine would probably be OK and save you a lot of money. GMs towing rating are not accurate for mountain driving. Subtract about 20% from the rating if you want to drive the speed limit in the mountains.