On truck prices, I don't quite understand the dynamics of it, but it's something to do with the EPA and their formula for size:horsepower/fuel consumption. Only way to get a big V8 in any truck is to buy the biggest truck, which necessitates the engine, which drives the cost up, creating headroom for everything else under it to increase in price. Almost all mid-sized trucks are now relegated to a 4banger with a turbo and NO THANK YOU. However, their prices keep increasing as they become less desired or useful. I'm assuming there is an EPA charge to break the threshold, which, drives the prices up.
Nissan has a V6 and they consider the Jeep Gladiator to be mid-sized and so it gets a 6cyl diesel. That's about it besides the Raptor Ranger... for $55k
Also, unless you get a premium Off-Road model anything, you aren't going to find a manual transmission available in nearly ANY truck. I don't even think you can get a manual in a super duty anymore. I think the Tacoma TRD OR is the only one I know of currently. Nobody needs/wants a turbo 4-banger strangled by a 8/10-speed auto. Those two things equate to planned obsolescence, inmy mind. The manual trans is the single most reliable mechanical system in a truck's drivetrain, and they've 86'd it. Why?