For the 1/2 tons, the answer is the F150 3.5L Ecoboost with MaxTow and/or Max Payload. It will have the payload (up to 3k for the 2015's) to handle it. It will have the power (think Diesel power with none of the headaches) to move it and keep it going. Unloaded you'll get about 18-22 MPG and loaded you'll do 9-12 MPG, about what the other V8's get under load. It will outpull every other 1/2 ton on the market.
Only problem is finding one. It is either a factory order if new or as hard as a unicorn to find used. When they are for sale used they go QUICK.