The best part? You can buy a Storm or Ranger sized truck without a diesel engine... even if it does it prolly doesnt smoke! ;) The Dakota is avail with a V8.
Enjoy your stay and if you get a chance - travel! Each state can have differences and changes in culture - some even within the state itself.
Trucks: they have them because they "can". If you are gonna drop that kind of cash its possible that it will be your only car AND since Americans are very much do-it-yourself types a truck is very handy. Moving to a new apartment? You call a buddy with a truck or rent one.
Car guy suggestions:
*If you cant get away for some typical tourist things or are too busy, at least stop at some of the national autoparts stores and see how they are (Napa, Advance, O'Reilly's, Autozone, etc). Probably seen a bunch by now.
* Dragstrips - might still be open down south - top fuel nitro... feel the ground shake
* Hooking up with a local car group - you might be amazed at whats out there 4 u
* Nascar? Too expensive I think
* Nissan dealer (if you are a big fanboy)
* Walmart!
Food suggestions:
Mexican food... you can get good Mexican in KL but in general its not as easy
Chinese buffet... sure its "Americanized" but its cheap
Taco Bell!
Arby's
Quiznos
Wendy's (for a frosty too) has an excellent $1 menu
Steaks - if you are a beef eater. Enjoy. The cows are different, cant explain.
Sonic! old school drive in!