When you’re in the market for a truck, fuel efficiency might not be the first thing that comes to mind, but it’s a crucial factor that impacts your wallet and time on the road. Miles per gallon (MPG) is the standard measure of fuel economy, indicating how far a vehicle can travel on a single gallon of gasoline. Higher MPG translates to fewer trips to the gas station and significant savings over time. If you’re seeking the versatility and power of a truck without the burden of excessive fuel costs, you’re in the right place.
This guide will explore the trucks offering the best gas mileage in the current market. We’ll cover both brand-new, fuel-efficient trucks, including cutting-edge hybrid models, and reliable used trucks that have consistently delivered impressive MPG. Whether you’re leaning towards the latest technology or a proven, budget-friendly option, we’ll help you discover the best truck to maximize your fuel savings without compromising on capability.
New Trucks Leading in Fuel Efficiency
The automotive industry is rapidly evolving, and truck manufacturers are increasingly focusing on fuel economy. Hybrid technology is at the forefront, offering remarkable MPG figures previously unheard of in the truck segment. However, advancements in traditional gasoline and diesel engines also provide solid fuel-efficient choices.
Top Hybrid Trucks for Fuel Economy
Hybrid trucks represent a leap forward in fuel efficiency. By combining gasoline engines with electric motors, these trucks deliver exceptional MPG, particularly in city driving. Here are some of the best hybrid trucks available:
- 2025 Ford Maverick Hybrid: Leading the pack with an impressive 42 MPG city and 33 MPG highway. The Maverick Hybrid is a standout for its compact size and remarkable fuel economy, making it ideal for city dwellers and those prioritizing efficiency.
- 2025 Toyota Tacoma Hybrid: The redesigned Tacoma Hybrid offers a strong balance of capability and efficiency, achieving up to 23 MPG city and 24 MPG highway. Known for its reliability and off-road prowess, the hybrid Tacoma adds fuel savings to its list of desirable features.
- 2025 Ford F-150 Hybrid: For those needing more power and capability, the F-150 Hybrid still delivers excellent fuel economy for a full-size truck, with up to 22 MPG city and 24 MPG highway. This hybrid powertrain option in America’s best-selling truck proves that you don’t have to sacrifice power for efficiency.
Front quarter view of a black Ford Raptor truck parked inside a warehouse, showcasing its rugged tires and headlights, emphasizing its off-road design and capability.
Best Gas-Powered Trucks for Fuel Economy
If you prefer a traditional gasoline engine, there are still excellent options that provide commendable fuel mileage. These trucks demonstrate that gas-powered engines can be efficient without sacrificing performance:
- 2025 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Diesel: While technically not gasoline, the diesel Silverado 1500 offers gas-like convenience with superior highway MPG, achieving up to 23 MPG city and an outstanding 33 MPG highway. Diesel engines are known for their efficiency, especially in towing and highway driving.
- 2025 GMC Sierra 1500 Diesel: Sharing the same engine as the Silverado, the GMC Sierra 1500 Diesel also boasts up to 23 MPG city and 29 MPG highway. The Sierra offers a more premium feel while maintaining the fuel efficiency of its Chevrolet counterpart.
- 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz: This unique “Sport Adventure Vehicle” offers car-like handling and fuel economy in a truck format, achieving up to 19 MPG city and 27 MPG highway. The Santa Cruz is perfect for those who need occasional truck utility but prioritize daily driving efficiency.
Fuel-Efficient Used Trucks to Consider
For budget-conscious buyers, the used truck market offers numerous fuel-efficient options. Depreciation makes these trucks more affordable, while their proven MPG ratings provide long-term savings. Here are some recommended used trucks known for their good gas mileage:
- 2014-2022 Ram 1500 EcoDiesel: The Ram 1500 EcoDiesel, produced during these years, consistently delivered excellent fuel economy, reaching up to 22 MPG city and 32 MPG highway. This diesel engine provided a great balance of power and efficiency in a comfortable and capable truck.
- 2016-2022 Chevrolet Colorado Diesel: The Chevrolet Colorado Diesel offered impressive MPG for a mid-size truck, achieving up to 20 MPG city and 30 MPG highway. This truck was a strong contender for fuel-conscious buyers needing a smaller, more maneuverable truck.
- 2019-2024 Ford Ranger: The recently redesigned Ford Ranger, in its 2019-2024 iterations, provides solid fuel economy for a gas-powered mid-size truck, with up to 21 MPG city and 26 MPG highway. The Ranger is a versatile and fuel-efficient choice for everyday use and weekend adventures.
FAQs About Maximizing Truck MPG
1. What is the absolute most fuel-efficient truck you can buy in 2025?
Currently, the 2025 Ford Maverick Hybrid holds the title for the most fuel-efficient truck. Its estimated 42 MPG city and 33 MPG highway are unmatched in the truck segment. It surpasses the average hybrid truck’s fuel economy by a significant margin, offering 34% better MPG than the 26 MPG combined average for hybrids. Even the gas-powered Ford Maverick is highly fuel-efficient, making it a top choice in both hybrid and non-hybrid categories.
2. In the diesel vs. gas truck debate, who wins on MPG?
Generally, diesel trucks offer superior fuel economy compared to their gas counterparts. Diesel engines are inherently more energy-dense, meaning they extract more energy from each gallon of fuel. This advantage is particularly noticeable in highway driving and when towing heavy loads, where diesel trucks often shine in fuel efficiency.
3. What MPG should you realistically expect from a modern truck in 2025?
The average MPG for trucks in 2025 is improving, but it’s still highly variable depending on the truck type, engine, and drivetrain. Many new trucks now achieve a combined MPG in the range of 21-25 MPG. The most fuel-efficient models, particularly hybrids and certain diesel options, will exceed this average, while larger, more powerful trucks will typically fall below it. Resources like fueleconomy.gov offer detailed MPG ratings for various truck models.
4. Are hybrid trucks a worthwhile investment for fuel savings in the long run?
Yes, hybrid trucks can absolutely be worth the investment if fuel savings are a priority. While hybrid trucks often have a higher initial purchase price compared to their gasoline counterparts, the long-term fuel savings can offset this initial cost. Studies, such as the one by Consumer Reports, indicate that hybrid vehicle owners can save thousands of dollars in fuel costs over the vehicle’s lifespan compared to similar gas-powered models.
5. How significantly does towing impact a truck’s gas mileage?
Towing has a considerable negative impact on truck gas mileage. For every extra 100 pounds of weight being towed, fuel efficiency can decrease by approximately 2%. Towing increases the engine’s workload and aerodynamic drag, leading to higher fuel consumption. While techniques like maintaining consistent speeds and avoiding aggressive acceleration can help mitigate the impact, a reduction in MPG when towing is inevitable.
Experience Fuel-Efficient Trucks Firsthand
The best way to determine if a fuel-efficient truck is right for you is to experience it in person. At Mathews Ford, we offer a wide selection of fuel-efficient trucks, including the Ford Maverick, F-150 Hybrid, and Ranger. Visit our dealership today to explore our inventory and speak with our knowledgeable team. Schedule a test drive online and discover how much you can save at the pump without compromising on the truck capabilities you need.
