I wasn't real wild about the way the new Chevys look either. I like the Fords better. I've heard pros and cons on both as far as the mechanical aspects go. It's a hard choice to make and they're SO expensive. They cost as much as a small house!
Deaconjim has an old '94 350 LWB ford, its been worked but runs well. It gets 22mpg (Diesel). Goood for pulling trailers! We have looked at some new fords, but like you say, they cost an arm and a leg, and ours might not be the prettiest truck, but you can haul stuff and not worry about scratches or dents! : )