Pickup Trucks That Balance Power and MPG
Pickup trucks aren’t always known for sipping fuel, but modern engineering has changed the game. From hybrids and diesels to cutting-edge EVs, today’s trucks can deliver impressive mileage without sacrificing capability. Here’s a ranking of 25 of the most fuel-efficient pickups on the market today.
#25 – Nissan Titan XD (Gas)
The Titan XD’s 5.6L V8 makes 400 hp and 413 lb-ft, returning around 18 mpg highway. While more focused on strength, Nissan has improved aerodynamics and efficiency compared to older models. For a full-size truck, its respectable numbers still make it a contender for fuel-conscious drivers needing big power.
Ryan Hildebrand, Wikimedia Commons
#24 – GMC Sierra 1500 5.3L V8
With its 5.3L EcoTec3 V8 producing 355 hp and 383 lb-ft, the Sierra 1500 manages up to 21 mpg highway. Active Fuel Management and a 10-speed automatic help efficiency. It’s a good compromise between classic V8 power and decent mileage in a full-size pickup.
The Wikipeadian guy, Wikimedia Commons
#23 – Chevrolet Silverado 1500 5.3L V8
Sharing its engine with the Sierra, the Silverado 1500 posts similar numbers at 21 mpg highway. Chevy tunes the truck for efficiency with cylinder deactivation. It’s a proven, versatile option for those who want a traditional pickup experience while saving a little more at the pump.
#22 – Toyota Tundra i-FORCE MAX Hybrid
The twin-turbo 3.5L V6 hybrid makes 437 hp and 583 lb-ft, yet returns around 22 mpg combined. Toyota’s hybrid system adds torque while keeping fuel use low for a truck this size. It’s a major improvement over older V8 Tundras, showing Toyota’s push for efficiency.
#21 – Ram 1500 5.7L eTorque V8
The HEMI V8 with eTorque mild-hybrid tech produces 395 hp and 410 lb-ft, delivering up to 22 mpg highway. The system improves start-stop smoothness and low-end torque while slightly boosting economy. For buyers who want muscle with a touch of efficiency, it’s a solid choice.
#20 – Ford F-150 5.0L V8
The 5.0L Coyote V8 makes 400 hp and 410 lb-ft while achieving 22 mpg highway. Ford’s 10-speed auto and stop-start system improve fuel use. It’s not the thriftiest, but it balances traditional V8 grunt with better mileage than many rivals.
#19 – GMC Sierra 1500 2.7L Turbo
This turbocharged four-cylinder makes 310 hp and 430 lb-ft, returning around 23 mpg highway. Smaller displacement and turbocharging help efficiency, while still towing over 9,000 lbs. It’s proof that downsized engines can deliver both torque and mileage in a full-size pickup.
2021 GMC Sierra 2.7L Turbo Quick Review: Who Is This Engine For?, Max Landi Reviews
#18 – Chevrolet Silverado 1500 2.7L Turbo
Like the Sierra, the Silverado’s 2.7L Turbo makes 310 hp and 430 lb-ft with fuel economy up to 23 mpg highway. With its strong torque curve, it feels lively while still delivering excellent mileage for its class. It’s a practical full-size choice for everyday drivers.
#17 – Jeep Gladiator EcoDiesel
Powered by a 3.0L EcoDiesel V6 making 260 hp and 442 lb-ft, the Gladiator returns 28 mpg highway. It’s an off-road-capable truck with fuel economy that beats many rivals. For adventurers who want range and efficiency on trails, it’s a unique choice.
#16 – Ram 1500 EcoDiesel
The 3.0L V6 EcoDiesel produces 260 hp and 480 lb-ft, returning up to 32 mpg highway. It’s one of the most efficient full-size diesel pickups ever, offering long range and towing strength. Ram discontinued it in 2023, but used models remain sought-after.
Utahredrock, Wikimedia Commons
#15 – Ford Ranger 2.3L EcoBoost
The Ranger’s 2.3L turbo-four produces 270 hp and 310 lb-ft, returning 26 mpg highway. Its smaller size and efficient turbocharged engine make it ideal for daily driving and light hauling. It’s one of the thriftiest midsize pickups available in the U.S.
#14 – GMC Canyon 2.5L I4
This midsize pickup’s 2.5L four-cylinder makes 200 hp and 191 lb-ft while returning 26 mpg highway. It’s not as powerful as the V6, but its efficiency makes it a smart commuter truck. Great for those who want pickup utility without the fuel bill.
#13 – Chevrolet Colorado 2.5L I4
Sharing with the Canyon, the Colorado’s base 2.5L four-cylinder delivers similar 200 hp and 191 lb-ft, returning 26 mpg highway. Compact and practical, it’s a fuel-efficient midsize truck that still offers useful cargo and towing abilities for daily life.
Tino Rossini, Wikimedia Commons
#12 – Ford Maverick AWD 2.0L EcoBoost
The 2.0L EcoBoost turbo-four produces 250 hp and 277 lb-ft, returning around 29 mpg highway. With its compact footprint and punchy engine, it’s fun to drive while staying efficient. It’s a lifestyle truck with strong appeal for city and suburban drivers.
#11 – Hyundai Santa Cruz 2.5L Turbo
The Santa Cruz’s 2.5L turbo-four produces 281 hp and 311 lb-ft, returning 27 mpg highway. Built on a unibody platform, it drives more like a crossover than a truck. Its efficiency and comfort make it ideal for buyers who want practicality without high fuel costs.
#10 – Honda Ridgeline 3.5L V6
The Ridgeline’s 3.5L V6 delivers 280 hp and 262 lb-ft, returning 24 mpg highway. Thanks to its unibody chassis and car-like design, it offers efficiency unmatched by most traditional trucks. It’s a daily driver favorite for pickup fans who want comfort and low running costs.
User:McChizzle, Wikimedia Commons
#9 – GMC Canyon Diesel
The Canyon’s 2.8L Duramax diesel four-cylinder makes 181 hp and 369 lb-ft, returning 30 mpg highway. It’s smooth, efficient, and ideal for long-distance commuters or light-duty work. The Canyon Diesel shows just how far midsize pickups can stretch a gallon of fuel.
Alexander Migl, Wikimedia Commons
#8 – Chevrolet Colorado Diesel
With the same 2.8L Duramax diesel, the Colorado matches the Canyon’s 30 mpg highway. Offering serious range and torque, it’s great for buyers who want a midsize truck that balances efficiency with towing power. It remains a strong choice for thrifty truck fans.
#7 – Ford Maverick AWD Hybrid
While not as thrifty as the FWD hybrid, the AWD version of the Maverick still returns 37 mpg combined. With 191 hp from its hybrid setup, it’s versatile and efficient. It’s the first hybrid pickup widely available in the U.S., proving trucks can sip fuel.
#6 – Toyota Tacoma 2.7L I4
The Tacoma’s 2.7L four-cylinder produces 159 hp and 180 lb-ft, returning 26 mpg highway. While not the most powerful, it’s reliable and frugal. For buyers prioritizing long-term dependability and efficiency, the four-cylinder Tacoma remains a solid midsize option.
Alexander-93, Wikimedia Commons
#5 – Hyundai Santa Cruz FWD 2.5L I4
The front-wheel-drive Santa Cruz’s 2.5L naturally aspirated four-cylinder delivers 191 hp and 181 lb-ft, with 30 mpg highway. It’s the thriftiest version of Hyundai’s truck, offering SUV-like comfort with pickup utility. A smart choice for drivers who want efficiency above all.
2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz -- Super Cut. Trims, Review, Drive, Night Analysis, MikesCarInfo
#4 – Ford Maverick FWD EcoBoost
The front-wheel-drive version with the 2.0L EcoBoost makes 250 hp and 277 lb-ft while returning up to 30 mpg highway. It’s the balance between performance and efficiency, making it a top pick for compact truck enthusiasts.
#3 – Ford Maverick Hybrid FWD
This 2.5L Atkinson-cycle hybrid makes 191 hp and returns 42 mpg city and 33 mpg highway. It’s the most efficient gas-powered pickup on the market. Its hybrid system makes it both fun and frugal, dominating the compact truck class in economy.
NOTHING COMES CLOSE. 2025 Ford Maverick Hybrid Review and MPG test., Kirk Kreifels
#2 – Rivian R1T
This electric truck offers up to 314 miles of range, with quad-motor setups making 835 hp and 908 lb-ft. Equivalent to over 70 MPGe, it proves EV trucks can be both green and powerful. It’s practical for eco-conscious adventurers.
Photo by Rivian, Wikimedia Commons
#1 – Ford F-150 Lightning
With dual electric motors producing up to 580 hp and 775 lb-ft, the Lightning achieves an EPA-estimated 70 MPGe. Offering 320 miles of range, it’s the most fuel-efficient full-size pickup available today. It’s Ford’s electrified icon that proves big trucks can have big efficiency too.
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