I have a 2001 with a 5 sp. manual. If I drive 55 on the freeway I can usually get 15 mpg. Going 65 drops it down to below 12. Headwinds are killers also, especially with the normal delivery box like many of them have. My camper is a little bit better with the aero cap but not much. Around the city is about the same if you drive it gently, I don't try to keep up with the traffic leaving the lights. I don't know what the finished loaded weight is but it doesn't seem to make too much difference unless I am climbing mountains. Aerodynamics is more important if you can do something to streamline it, or a pop up camper. I believe the 2006 has a more powerful engine so not sure if that will affect it much or not. You will enjoy the increased power when climbing hills! Mine is underpowered. The automatics have more HP but I wouldn't own one. Have you driven one? The clutch takes some getting used to, it is stiff. Not a problem but it isn't like my previous Hondas!
I'm very happy with how the truck drives and handles, it is all stock including the seats.
What are you putting on it? See my build thread from last year, if interested.
Vic
