Finding a truck that balances hauling power with impressive fuel economy can feel like chasing a mirage. Yet, with the latest advances in engine technology and lightweight materials, several models now offer remarkable miles per gallon (mpg) for the hard‑working driver.
In this guide we answer the common question: what truck has the best gas mileage? We dive into the 2024 model year, compare key specs, and give you pro tips to keep fuel costs low.
Ready to discover which truck will save you money on the road? Let’s explore the options.
Light‑Duty Trucks That Deliver the Highest MPG Scores
Light‑duty pickups are the most fuel‑efficient category in the truck segment. They combine cargo capacity with modern power‑train tech, proving that utility and economy can coexist.
Ford F‑Series EcoBoost Models
The newest Ford F‑150 with the EcoBoost 3.0L V6 delivers up to 27 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway. Its turbo‑charged engine balances torque and efficiency.
- All‑wheel drive trims: 26 mpg city / 23 mpg highway
- Standard towing capacity: 10,000 lbs
- Advanced EcoBoost tech reduces weight by 200 lbs
Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Powertrains
Chevrolet’s Powertrains 2.7L turbo engine offers 25 mpg city / 26 mpg highway in most configurations. The new 4-cylinder option can push up to 29 mpg.
- Hybrids unavailable in 2024 but upcoming
- Towing capacity up to 9,500 lbs
- Electric power‑steering enhances handling
Ram 1500 EcoDiesel Variant
Ram’s new EcoDiesel 3.0L V6 claims 30 mpg city / 34 mpg highway—a rare find in a pickup. Its low-end torque is ideal for heavy loads.
- Standard 4WD gives 29 mpg city / 33 mpg highway
- Towing max 10,100 lbs
- Long‑sleeping cab for 4‑person family
Mid‑Size Trucks With Superior Fuel Efficiency
Mid‑size pickups often outperform their full‑size counterparts in miles per gallon, thanks to smaller frames and lighter engines.
Honda Ridgeline Hybrid Preview
Honda’s upcoming hybrid Ridgeline, slated for 2025, promises 32 mpg combined. The gas‑only version already hits 25 mpg city / 29 mpg highway.
- V6 powertrain with 400 lbs weight reduction
- Towing up to 5,000 lbs
- All‑terrain drive with low‑rider suspension
Toyota Tacoma EcoBoost 3.5L
The 2024 Tacoma EcoBoost offers 20 mpg city / 23 mpg highway. Though lower than the Ram EcoDiesel, its 4×4 capability is a plus.
- Standard 4WD: 19 mpg city / 22 mpg highway
- Towing max 6,800 lbs
- Toyota Safety Sense 2.5 for active safety features
Subaru Forester Utility
Subaru’s Forester Utility, a light‑truck crossover, hits 28 mpg city / 31 mpg highway. It blends off‑road capability with fuel economy.
- Symmetrical all‑wheel drive standard
- Towing up to 2,000 lbs
- EyeSight Driver Assist Technology included
Hybrids and Plug‑Ins: Cutting-Edge Efficiency Gains
Hybrid and plug‑in hybrids (PHEVs) are transforming the truck market, offering miles on electric power alone.
Ford F‑150 PowerBoost Hybrid
The PowerBoost Hybrid reaches 24 mpg city / 22 mpg highway combined. Fuel‑cell technology adds an extra 1,000 lbs of torque.
- Electric range: 25 miles on full charge
- Towing max 12,000 lbs
- Standard AWD with 11,000‑lb capacity
Toyota Tundra Hybrid Preview
Toyota’s Tundra Hybrid is projected to deliver 25 mpg combined, a notable leap over the gasoline model.
- Hybrid battery capacity: 6.4 kWh
- Towing max 10,500 lbs
- Integrated Eco Mode for optimal efficiency
Key Factors That Influence Truck Gas Mileage
Understanding what drives fuel efficiency helps you spot the best deals.
Engine Size and Turbocharging
Larger engines can produce more power but often sacrifice fuel economy. Turbocharging allows smaller engines to match or exceed the output of larger naturally aspirated units while using less fuel.
Weight and Materials
Modern alloys, aluminum panels, and composite interiors reduce curb weight, directly improving mpg.
Aerodynamics and Design
Streamlined bodies, active grille shutters, and low drag coefficients keep the engine working harder than necessary, boosting efficiency.
Transmission Technology
Continuously variable transmissions (CVTs) and 10‑speed automatics can keep the engine in its most efficient rpm range.
Comparison Table: 2024 Trucks and Their Fuel Economy
| Truck | Engine | City MPG | Highway MPG | Total Towing Capacity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ford F‑150 EcoBoost | 3.0L V6 Turbo | 27 | 24 | 10,000 lbs |
| Chevy Silverado 1500 2.7L Turbo | 2.7L Turbo | 25 | 26 | 9,500 lbs |
| Ram 1500 EcoDiesel | 3.0L V6 Diesel | 30 | 34 | 10,100 lbs |
| Toyota Tacoma EcoBoost 3.5L | 3.5L EcoBoost | 20 | 23 | 6,800 lbs |
| Ford F‑150 PowerBoost Hybrid | 3.5L V6 Hybrid | 24 | 22 | 12,000 lbs |
| Ram 1500 3.6L V6 | 3.6L V6 | 20 | 22 | 12,750 lbs |
| Honda Ridgeline 3.5L V6 | 3.5L V6 | 25 | 29 | 5,000 lbs |
| Subaru Forester Utility | 2.5L Boxer | 28 | 31 | 2,000 lbs |
Pro Tips for Maximizing Truck Fuel Economy
- Maintain Optimal Tire Pressure: Keep tires at manufacturer‑recommended PSI to reduce rolling resistance.
- Use Low‑Rolling‑Resistance Tires: Modern tires can cut fuel consumption by 2–3%.
- Plan Routes Efficiently: Avoid heavy traffic and use navigation apps that suggest the fastest, most fuel‑efficient path.
- Lighten Your Load: Every 100 lbs adds fuel cost; remove unnecessary gear.
- Use Eco Mode: Activate the vehicle’s Eco or Power Save settings to limit acceleration and engine output.
- Regular Maintenance: Clean air filters, oil changes, and spark plug inspections keep the engine running efficiently.
- Shift to Higher Gears Early: In manual vehicles, shift up at lower rpm to stay in the optimal power band.
- Consider Hybrid Powertrains: Even a modest electric assist can significantly cut fuel consumption in stop‑and‑go traffic.
Frequently Asked Questions about what truck has the best gas mileage
Which full-size truck offers the highest fuel efficiency?
The Ram 1500 EcoDiesel tops the list with 30 mpg city and 34 mpg highway, making it the most efficient full‑size pickup in 2024.
Do any midsize trucks beat the Ram 1500 in mpg?
While midsize trucks like the Honda Ridgeline Hybrid are efficient, the Ram 1500 EcoDiesel still offers the best overall mileage in its segment.
Can a hybrid truck still tow heavy loads?
Yes, hybrids such as the Ford F‑150 PowerBoost can tow up to 12,000 lbs, matching many gasoline counterparts.
Is the Toyota Tacoma more fuel‑efficient than the Chevy Silverado?
The Tacoma’s 20–23 mpg is lower than the Silverado’s 25–26 mpg, but its lighter weight and off‑road capability appeal to a different market.
What’s the best truck for city commuting?
Compact pickups like the Subaru Forester Utility or the Honda Ridgeline Hybrid perform best in urban settings due to their lower weight and higher city mpg.
Do aftermarket upgrades improve fuel economy?
Upgrading to lightweight wheels, installing a cold air intake, or adding a performance chip can give marginal gains but may impact warranty coverage.
How does towing affect fuel economy?
Towing adds weight, often reducing mpg by 1–2 mpg per 1,000 lbs of cargo.
Are there any electric trucks available?
As of 2024, the Ford F‑150 Lightning is fully electric, offering zero emissions but limited range compared to gasoline models.
Will a truck’s horsepower affect fuel consumption?
Higher horsepower generally means more fuel consumption, but modern engines balance torque and efficiency through variable valve timing and direct injection.
Where can I find detailed fuel economy ratings?
Visit the EPA’s official fuel economy website or check each manufacturer’s product brochure for the latest mpg figures.
Choosing the right truck depends on your blend of payload needs, driving habits, and budget. By focusing on trucks that offer the best gas mileage, you can keep your fuel budget lean while staying powerful enough for work or play.
Ready to take the next step? Explore dealer inventories, test drive your favorite models, and compare real‑world mpg data to make an informed decision that saves you money on the road.
