I understand completely. I love trucks. Like you said about value, shop shop shop, buy low, sell high. the trade sticker shock isn't as bad that way!
Why did I go to the runner. As much as I love trucks, living in my area its hard to park about anywhere! Saw a parking garage in the city said 7' clearance. lucky I looked as they lied and would have lopped the roof off! they had the nerve to ***** me out when I had to back out and block traffic. Trucks are awesome and the runner to me was as truck-like to drive in a smaller package. Can't go wrong whatever you decide unless its the upcoming Tesla truck then you would have to hide in shame