Efficient Workhorses: The 10 Most Fuel

Save money and reduce emissions without compromising power. Discover the ultimate fuel-efficient trucks of the last 10 years.

Pickup trucks constitute over 20% of the passenger vehicle market in the United States. People adore pickups as these automobiles excel in numerous facets, including towing, performance, off-roading, practicality, and reliability. But for the longest time, trucks have struggled in the fuel economy department, earning the infamous "gas guzzler" tag. Thus, it's unsurprising that fuel-efficiency ranks as a vital criterion for truck buyers searching for a capable pickup.

Automakers have gotten wind of car enthusiasts' love for frugal pickups. The result? An inflow of pickup trucks leaving the manufacturing lines with efficient diesel, regular gasoline, and hybrid powertrains. Some vehicle manufacturers are taking things further with electric trucks that don't require gas; notable mentions include the Chevrolet Silverado EV, Ford F-150 Lightning, Chevrolet Silverado EV, and the Tesla Cybertruck.

Despite the appeal of electric pickups, gas-powered iterations remain at the forefront due to the former's restrictive range. Without further ado, let's take a peek at 10 of the most fuel-efficient trucks in the last decade.

Since the Tacoma's 1995 introduction as a replacement to the Toyota Hilux (AKA Pickup Truck), it has lived up to expectations by offering the perfect blend of reliability and capability. The 2017 variant of this top-tier mid-size truck is home to numerous technological add-ons, most notably a touchscreen-enabled infotainment system compatible with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.

Powertrain Option

2WD, 3.5L, 6 Cylinder, Automatic

Fuel Type

Regular gasoline

EPA-Estimated Fuel Economy

21 combined (19 city, 24 highway)

EPA-Estimated Range

443 miles

Annual Fuel Costs

$2,550

Tank Capacity

21.1 gal

The Tacoma's 6-cylinder 3.5-liter engine rated at 278 horsepower and 265 pound-feet of torque can seamlessly tow 3,500 pounds without hassles. Additionally, this powertrain delivers a decent 19 MPG in the city and 24 MPG on the highway for a combined 21 MPG.

RELATED: 5 Most Innovative Features Of The 2024 Toyota Tacoma (5 We Don't Like)

The 2018 Nissan Frontier ranks among the nameplate's second generation. Although it offers a comfortable ride and has a trim tailored towards off-roading endeavors, this truck didn't resonate among gearheads as it was tagged outdated compared to most of the mid-size truck competition. Despite not being perfect for car enthusiasts seeking a whiff of modernity, it's a great pick for those seeking a fun and utility truck.

Powertrain Option

2WD, 2.5L, 4 Cylinder, Manual

Fuel Type

Regular Gasoline

EPA-Estimated Fuel Economy

21 combined (19 city, 23 highway)

EPA-Estimated Range

443 miles

Annual Fuel Costs

$2,550

Tank Capacity

21.1 gal

The standard 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine fielding a 5-speed manual transmission is the thriftiest in the 2018 Frontier's entire lineup. Delivering a measly 152 horses and 171 pound-feet of torque, this engine has a fuel economy of 19 MPG in the city and 23 MPG on the highway. However, the 2018 Frontier doesn't come close to being featured on our exclusive list of trucks with the highest towing capacities, as its base engine can only pull a maximum of 3,500 pounds.

The 2017 Honda Ridgeline is the perfect fit for those looking for pickup trucks offering performance and comfort. To aid comfy rides, the truck utilizes a revolutionary four-wheel independent suspension that cushions bumps easily. Top-tier driver aids like lane departure warning with lane keeping assist, forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking, and cross-traffic alerts are available to ward off mishaps.

Powertrain Option

FWD, 3.5L, 6 Cylinder, Automatic

Fuel Type

Regular gasoline

EPA-Estimated Fuel Economy

22 combined (19 city, 26 highway)

EPA-Estimated Range

429 miles

Annual Fuel Costs

$2,450

Tank Capacity

19.5 gal

The 2017 Honda Ridgeline has a powerful 3.5-liter V6 engine mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission. This setup churns out a whopping 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. The FWD variant of the Ridgeline is the most frugal, delivering 19 MPG in the city and 26 MPG on highways; however, it has a rather disappointing maximum towing capacity of 3,500 pounds.

The RAM 1500 epitomizes incredible drivability in the full-size pickup segment. Although the 2017 iteration of this nameplate made its debut with an exterior design that looked a tad dated, its capabilities are off the charts. For context, the 2017 RAM 1500's interior is draped with diverse technological add-ons, including an intuitive Uconnect system, Wi-Fi hotspot capability, and power-adjustable pedals. The pickup also hosts a myriad of safety-themed extras, including hill-start assist, anti-lock disc brakes, and trailer-sway control. Bump-free rides also reign supreme, thanks to the presence of a state-of-the-art coil spring rear suspension.

Powertrain Option

2WD, 3.0L, 6 Cylinder, Automatic

Fuel Type

Diesel

EPA-Estimated Fuel Economy

23 combined (20 city, 27 highway)

EPA-Estimated Range

598 miles

Annual Fuel Costs

$2,500

Tank Capacity

26 gal

Fitted under the hood of the 2017 RAM 1500 is a 3.0-liter EcoDiesel V6 that releases 240 horsepower and 420 pound-feet of torque. This valiant engine doesn't earn a gas guzzling rep, boasting 20 MPG in the city and 27 MPG on the highway. What's more? It can tow up to 9,210 pounds when properly equipped.

Since its inception in 1962 as a 1963 model, the Jeep Gladiator has etched itself as one of the most capable and rugged trucks of all time. For 2021, the Gladiator sticks to its founding principles, hosting great ground clearance and traction required to traverse numerous terrains without difficulties. Despite letting in a considerable amount of road noise, the 2017 Gladiator's interior wields supportive seats, an effective climate control system, and a responsive infotainment system.

Powertrain Option

4WD, 3.0L, 6 Cylinder, Automatic

Fuel Type

Diesel

EPA-Estimated Fuel Economy

24 combined (22 city, 28 highway)

EPA-Estimated Range

N/A

Annual Fuel Costs

$2,400

Tank Capacity

18.3 gal

The 2021 Gladiator has a "torquey" 3.0-liter turbocharged EcoDiesel V6 engine that's good for 260 horsepower and 442 lb-ft of torque when mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. It also receives an estimated 22 MPG in the city and 28 MPG on the highway (24 MPG combined). The 2021 Jeep Gladiator (EcoDiesel) has an impressive towing capacity of 6,500 pounds.

RELATED: Here's Why Gearheads Are Begging For A 2-Door Jeep Gladiator

Chevrolet has been known for creating stellar trucks for decades. The 2016 Chevrolet Colorado doesn't deviate from the Bow-Tie automaker's impeccable track record due to its top-tier performance and luxurious interior — a potent combination.

Powertrain Option

2WD, 2.8L, 4 Cylinder, Automatic

Fuel Type

Diesel

EPA-Estimated Fuel Economy

25 combined (22 city, 30 highway)

EPA-Estimated Range

N/A (Chevrolet pegs this figure at 651 miles)

Annual Fuel Costs

$2,580

Tank Capacity

21 gal

The 2016 Chevrolet Colorado's most fuel-efficient engine is the 2.8-liter four-cylinder Duramax diesel that produces 181 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. Despite the powertrain's "torquiness," it delivers a mind-boggling fuel economy of 22 MPG in the city and 30 MPG on the highway. The Duramax also offers an amazing towing rating of 7,700 pounds.

When giving credence to the most revered vehicle within the United States, Ford's F-Series come to mind. This lineup ranks as America's best-selling truck for 46 consecutive years. In 2022, one F-Series pickup sold every 49 seconds! For context, the most revered alternative in the model line is the Ford F-150.

For 2019, the F-150 retained its family-friendly versatility with a spacious interior featuring opulent fittings. It also excels in the technological department with an infotainment system compatible with smartphones (Android and iOS) alongside seamless Wi-Fi connectivity.

Powertrain Option

2WD, 3.0L, 6 Cylinder, Automatic

Fuel Type

Diesel

EPA-Estimated Fuel Economy

25 combined (22 city, 30 highway)

EPA-Estimated Range

575 to 650 miles

Annual Fuel Costs

$2,300

Tank Capacity

26 gal

The F-150's 3.0-liter Power Stroke V6 Turbodiesel engine puts out 250 horses and 440 pound-feet of torque and sends power to the wheels via a smooth-shifting 10-speed automatic. This powertrain is also good for towing loads maxing out at 11,400 pounds; EPA fuel economy estimates on the 2019 F-150 is 22 MPG in the city and 30 MPG on the highway (for a combined 25 MPG).

The full-size pickup truck segment is rife with competition. However, the 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 aims to stand out with a well-sculpted exterior, comfy and opulent interior, and top-of-the-line tech add-ons like the Super Cruise (a system that aids hands-free driving).

Powertrain Option

2WD, 3.0L, 6 Cylinder, Automatic

Fuel Type

Diesel

EPA-Estimated Fuel Economy

26 combined (24 city, 29 highway)

EPA-Estimated Range

624 miles

Annual Fuel Costs

$2,200

Tank Capacity

22 gal

The GMC Sierra 1500 also makes its presence known with an enhanced 3.0-liter Duramax Turbodiesel engine that can generate 305 horsepower and 495 lb-ft of torque when mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission. 2WD Sierra 1500s wielding this engine have a combined fuel economy of 26 MPG (24 MPG in the city and 29 MPG on the highway). What's better? The engine has the required pep to tow 13,200 pounds without impediments.

At this juncture, you might have noticed that diesel-engined pickups fare better in the fuel economy department than their counterparts running on regular gasoline. The 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 joins in on the parade with a 3.0-liter inline-6 Duramax Turbodiesel engine that delivers 277 horses and 460 pound-feet of torque when paired to a Hydra-Matic 10-speed automatic transmission.

Powertrain Option

2WD, 3.0L, 6 Cylinder, Automatic

Fuel Type

Diesel

EPA-Estimated Fuel Economy

27 combined (23 city, 33 highway)

EPA-Estimated Range

648 miles

Annual Fuel Costs

$2,100

Tank Capacity

22 gal

According to the EPA estimates, this engine delivers a stellar fuel economy of 23 MPG in the city and 33 MPG on the highway, paving the way for a 27 MPG combined MPG summary. 2WD model owners will also be able to tow a maximum of 7,600 pounds.

RELATED: From Classic To Cutting-Edge: The Evolution Of The Chevrolet Silverado

The 2023 Ford Maverick Hybrid got tongues wagging not only for its cost-effective pricing but its super amazing combined fuel economy of 37 MPG. However, it's pertinent to note that these high numbers stem from its unibody construction and hybrid engine.

Powertrain Option

HEV FWD, 2.5L, 4 Cylinder, Automatic

Fuel Type

Regular gasoline

EPA-Estimated Fuel Economy

37 combined (40 city, 33 highway)

EPA-Estimated Range

511 miles

Annual Fuel Costs

$1,450

Tank Capacity

13.8 gal

Mated to the 2023 Maverick Hybrid is a 2.5-liter inline-4 engine aided by an electric motor to generate a combined 191 horsepower and 155 lb-ft of torque. This powertrain structure helps the truck achieve a mesmeric 40 MPG in the city and 33 MPG on the highway. However, the Maverick's hybridized power has one significant limitation — it can only tow a maximum of 2,000 pounds.

Benson's love for automobiles isn't waning anytime soon. Having ghostwritten for multiple automotive-themed sites for the last three years, he's decided to pitch his tent at HotCars -- churning out stellar content bound to keep you immersed.