Make no mistake about it, the most popular vehicle in America for over three decades has been the pickup truck. It has nearly become synonymous with the American man, to the point where people who wear ties and suits to work have even gone out and purchased a pickup. But do they really need a heavy pickup with a 10,000 pound carrying capacity?

Probably not, which could be why the Windsor Star reports that Dodge is mulling the idea of a light-duty “lifestyle” urban pickup for production, and it could draw its influence from the 2006 Dodge Rampage concept (pictured above.)

The “Lifestyle” truck is being designed to compete with the Honda Ridgeline, which is more of a toy truck for those who need something utilitarian and at the same time comfortable and not overly-qualified for the job at hand. While the Pentastar is staying mum on the subject, suppliers have been let known that just such a vehicle could be on the way, even as sales of pickup truck themselves are on the downturn due to the spike in gas prices.

So what would we like to see from a Lifestyle truck? For one, a gutsy motor that still delivers decent highway fuel economy (say in the mid-20’s?) Something that has a lot of options as well, anywhere from a cheap, efficient utility vehicle to a completely chromed-out look-at-me-I’m-here truck. Since nothing is set in stone, we’re letting our imaginations run a little wild…so what would you like to see in a new Dodge small pickup?