I'm a bit slow because I have missed the point:-( my trailer and car weigh about 1650kg and my ute is a 6sp manual and I cruise at 110 effortlessly. If it breaks something ill fix it , but I don't use sixth at all, if I come to a hill put it back a gear and use the power, thats what its for. As for fuel, yeah it uses it but I guess I'm lucky my kids are grown up, just me and wifey so it doesn't bother me, it's like eating an evil nesscesity.
I chose this ute because I like to travel in comfort, in comfortable seats and ride. I've driven plenty of late model navaras, hiluxs, rangers etc and they are rough riding uncomfortable trucks. Just my opinion :-)