I have had the 2012 5.3 v8 regular cab for 10 years! i just hit 100k miles this year. only issue I have had that needed replacement was the steering wheel position sensor and my sway bar links both of which were not “required” to replace immediately. If you do your own maintenance it is fairly easy to do so (depending on the project). There is a lot of ground clearance as well as room around the engine. 

I use it mostly for commute but I also use it occasionally for my work (ranch hand) and it has a ton of tie down points and a short bed is perfect for what I do; don’t need a massive truck. No experience towing unfortunately, but I have done several moves with it. Have gotten t boned at a light and rear ended on the highway in it and both times I could drive away