Small trucks

[Don Corleone]

Just wondering if anybody has any insights to offer on the small to mid-range pickup truck class. Here's my needs:

-Has to have rear seating large enough to accomodate 2 car seats.
-Rear doors, at least half doors, a must.
-Has to be robust enough to push a plow.
-Good fuel efficiency.
-Good maintenance record.
-If possible, I'd prefer a manual transmission, but I think they all have those.

Other than that, I'm open to any and all suggestions, and I know very little about the class. From what I've read, I'm torn between a Nissan Frontier (appears to be the best overall on paper) and a Ford Ranger (best fuel economy and Detroit needs the help).

Thanks.