Some of these new trucks are VERY nice vehicles. I can understand why people drive them. A truck is easier to enter and exit. There is usually more interior space since trucks are wider than most cars. Comfortable leather seats, a quiet ride. There is a LOT to love about newer trucks.

On the other hand, trucks often cost more to drive than a car. A truck will almost always cost more to purchase. A truck will use more fuel. If a truck is not needed, it is probably not going to be the cheapest option.

If you want a more comfortable vehicle, some of the "near luxury" cars are quite a bit more comfortable than cheaper cars. For example, a Chrysler 300 is a nice car in my opinion. A V6 model will get decent fuel economy.

As some of the other guys have suggested, it would be best to start adding up the projected expenses for a truck and a car to determine the difference. Everybody's situation is different!

Edit: If you want a more economical truck, an older 12 valve Dodge Cummins, 2 wheel drive truck MIGHT be a good choice. The 2 wheel drive trucks do not bring near as much money as a 4x4. Of course, you probably wouldn't want to drive it every day. But it would use less fuel than your current truck, especially when towing. I suspect a 12 valve, 2 wheel drive Cummins will be the cheapest diesel to buy and perhaps to drive. Some of the other guys here could probably give you some better advice on this though.