COSTA MESA, Calif. — Dealers who specialize in trucks will again see familiar models when reviewing the 2010 Truck Buying Guide recently announced by NADAguides.com.

Taking the spot in the highly competitive half-ton category was the 2010 Ford F-150. Site analysts also picked a Ford unit in the one-ton segment, going with the 2010 Ford F-350 Super Duty.

Earning the mark among midsize trucks was the 2010 Toyota Tacoma, while the remaining position in the guide went to the 2010 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 HD in the three-quarter-ton segment.

NADAguides.com stressed that the trucks were chosen based on towing and payload capacities, engine choices, interior amenities, price and fuel economy. Analysts conceded that towing and payload capacities vary based on vehicle options, hitch and load type.

"Trucks are an American phenomenon — rugged, dependable and capable of handling just about anything you can throw at them. They are the perfect tool for those with a work hard, play hard attitude," explained Michael Caudill, NADAguides.com automotive expert.

"Today's trucks are making a comeback and are a far cry from pickups of the past," Caudill continued. "While continuing to increase towing and payload capacities, manufacturers have made them more refined, comfortable and efficient than ever before."

NADAguides.com also offered more commentary about each of the trucks selected for this guide.

Mid-Size: 2010 Toyota Tacoma (MSRP $15,345 – $27,250)

"While it may not have the torque or capacity to move mountains, the relatively compact size and fuel efficient powertrain options help the Tacoma strike a good balance between all-out workhorse and comfortable daily driver," analysts believe. "The powerful V6 engine returns respectable fuel economy (17 city/21 hwy mpg) and allows the Tacoma to tow up to 3,500 pounds or haul up to 1,350 pounds, which is more than enough for the dirt bikes, ATVs, personal watercraft or home improvement supplies."

Half-Ton: 2010 Ford F-150 (MSRP $21,820 – $46,500)

"Since 1982 the F-Series has been America's best selling truck, and the F-150 is a huge reason why," analysts explained. "Equipped with the HD Payload Package the F-150 will tow an astonishing 11,300 pounds and haul up to 3,030 pounds, making it the most capable half-ton pickup on the road. The standard Trailer Sway Control (TSC) works with the vehicle stability system to keep trailer sway in check through selective wheel braking and engine power management."

Three-quarter Ton: 2010 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 HD (MSRP $27,465 – $43,405)

"The Duramax Diesel V8 puts out an earth-moving 660 lb-ft of torque, easily pulling the weight of anything up to its 15,800-pound tow capacity," analysts pointed out. "Properly equipped, the Silverado 2500 HD also has a maximum payload rating of 3,924 pounds. Combine this powerful engine with the proven Allison 1000 six-speed transmission and you have a rock-solid hauler that can tackle the toughest of jobs."

One-Ton: 2010 Ford F-350 Super Duty (MSRP $26,595 – $43,805)

"Order the F-350 with the 6.4L Power Stroke V8 Turbo Diesel and you'll be treated to the seemingly limitless capability of 350 hp and 650 lb-ft of torque at a low 2000 RPM," analysts found. "This powerful engine allows the F-350 to offer a towing capacity of 15,000 pounds and a maximum payload of 5,690 pounds, meaning it could easily carry the weight of an average half-ton truck in its bed. This is not the soot-spewing monster of the past, however. Ford Clean Diesel Technology includes a particulate filter that helps bring emissions in line with those of a similar size and power gasoline engine."