I would suggest to go and try one. It's closer to an suv than a truck as far as height goes
My wife is around 5'4 and she has no problem getting in. My father is 5'3 and drives one too no problem.
I love mine and wouldn't have chosen a lower trim, but I totally understand people choosing the best value instead of the best trim. My father bought a XLT Hybrid and didn't care much about the extras, he is very happy with it.
The adaptive cruise control was non-negotiable for me, also like...
That's a very good way to think about it. This definitely helps me justify to myself that I paid extra basically for creature comfort. I do love my Lariat Hybrid AWD, wouldn't go to a lower trim unless I couldn't afford it.