Best Fuel Mileage Diesel Trucks: Top Picks And Tips

what diesel truck gets the best fuel mileage

Diesel trucks are known for their power and efficiency, offering a blend of high torque output and good fuel economy. While diesel engines are not as efficient as gasoline or electric engines, they are still a popular choice for those who frequently haul large loads. When it comes to fuel mileage, there are a few diesel trucks that stand out. The Chevrolet Silverado, for example, is known for its fuel efficiency, with the 2023 model offering an EPA-estimated 23 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway. The GMC Sierra, a close competitor, offers similar fuel efficiency, with an average of 23.7 mpg. For those looking for a more powerful option, the Ram 3.0 EcoDiesel produces 260 hp and 480 lb-ft of torque while still offering good fuel economy. Other notable mentions include the GMC Canyon, which offers a combined fuel economy of 23 mpg, and the RAM 1500, which offers 22 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway. It's worth noting that real-world fuel economy may vary depending on driving conditions, terrain, and usage.

Characteristics Values
Best diesel trucks for fuel economy Chevrolet Silverado, GMC Sierra, Jeep Gladiator, GMC Canyon, Chevrolet Colorado, RAM 1500, and RAM 2500
Chevrolet Silverado's mpg 23 mpg in the city, 29 mpg on the highway, and 26 mpg combined
GMC Sierra's mpg 23 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway
Jeep Gladiator's mpg 22 mpg in the city, 28 mpg on the highway, and 24 mpg combined
GMC Canyon's mpg 20 mpg in the city, 30 mpg on the highway, and 23 mpg combined
Chevrolet Colorado's mpg 24 mpg
RAM 1500's mpg 22 mpg in the city, 32 mpg on the highway, 21 mpg in town, 29 mpg on the highway, and 26 mpg combined
RAM 2500's mpg 20 mpg
Calculating mpg Divide the total miles driven by the gallon amount it took to fill the tank

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The Chevrolet Silverado is a top-selling vehicle with impressive fuel efficiency

The 2025 Chevy Silverado 1500 takes it a step further with an EPA-estimated fuel efficiency of 23 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway, for a combined rating of 26 mpg. This impressive fuel economy is achieved with the 3.0-liter Duramax turbo-diesel engine and 2WD. The Silverado's fuel efficiency is further enhanced by its aerodynamic design, featuring a bold front grille and aggressive LED headlights.

The Chevrolet Silverado also impresses with its towing capabilities. The 2024 model has a maximum towing capacity of 13,300 pounds, surpassing competitors like the Ram 1500. The 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 is also noteworthy, offering exceptional power and towing performance while achieving a maximum of 23 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway.

The Silverado's engine options contribute to its impressive fuel efficiency. The 2024 model offers a range of engines, including a 2.7-liter four-cylinder TurboMax, a 5.3-liter EcoTec3 V-8, a 6.2-liter EcoTec3 V-8, and a 3.0-liter Duramax Turbo-Diesel. The 2025 Silverado 1500 also provides engine choices, including gas and diesel powertrains, each designed to balance power and fuel efficiency.

The Chevrolet Silverado is a top-selling vehicle that delivers an impressive combination of style, performance, comfort, and fuel efficiency. With its advanced technology features, spacious interior, and powerful engine options, the Silverado is an attractive option for those seeking a versatile and efficient truck.

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The GMC Canyon is a popular pickup truck with good fuel economy. It is a mid-size truck with a rugged interior and a bold, athletic exterior. The Canyon offers a variety of trims, including the Elevation, AT4, AT4X, and Denali. It is known for its class-leading towing capabilities and has a maximum towing capacity of 7,700 lbs.

In terms of fuel economy, the GMC Canyon performs well for a pickup truck. The 2025 GMC Canyon with rear-wheel drive has an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 19 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway. The four-wheel-drive models have a slightly lower estimate of 18 mpg in the city and 22 mpg on the highway. Real-world data from GMC Canyon owners has shown fuel economy figures ranging from 14.7 mpg to 23.1 mpg.

The GMC Canyon's fuel efficiency can be attributed to its engine options. The Canyon is available with a TurboMax™ engine that delivers 310 horsepower and 430 lb-ft of torque. This engine is known for its fuel efficiency and performance, contributing to the Canyon's good fuel economy.

Additionally, the GMC Canyon offers a range of features that enhance its fuel efficiency. These include an off-road suspension system, a rear automatic locking differential, and an Autotrac two-speed transfer case. The Canyon also provides a suite of safety and driver-assistance features, such as Rear Pedestrian Alert, which can help improve fuel economy by preventing sudden stops or collisions.

Overall, the GMC Canyon is a popular pickup truck that offers a good balance of performance, functionality, and fuel economy. Its EPA estimates and real-world data demonstrate its ability to provide relatively high fuel efficiency for a vehicle in its class, making it a desirable option for those seeking a combination of power and fuel efficiency.

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The RAM 1500 offers good mpg depending on the model year and configuration

The RAM 1500 is a powerful and versatile truck that offers good fuel mileage. The 2023 model, for example, can achieve up to 26 mpg with the RWD diesel engine. This means you can enjoy extended drives without worrying about frequent refuelling.

The RAM 1500's fuel efficiency varies depending on the model year and configuration. For instance, the 2024 RAM 1500 can deliver up to 20 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway. This model year offers three engine options, each providing unique benefits to cater to different driving needs.

The 2025 RAM 1500 continues the trend of impressive fuel economy, achieving up to an EPA-estimated 20/26 MPG (city/highway) with the 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine and eight-speed automatic transmission. The 4WD setup yields slightly lower figures at 19/24 MPG (city/highway). The 2025 model also introduces the 3.0-liter Hurricane engine, which unlocks the truck's maximum towing capacity of 11,550 pounds while still offering good fuel efficiency.

The RAM 1500's design, transmission, and features like the Active Air Dam also contribute to its fuel efficiency. The raised hood and carefully placed cooling vents minimize the drag coefficient, enhancing the truck's overall fuel mileage.

Additionally, the RAM 1500's eTorque system, a mild-hybrid technology, further improves fuel economy without compromising performance. This system replaces the alternator with a 48-volt belt-driven motor, resulting in enhanced performance and better mileage.

Overall, the RAM 1500 offers a balance of performance, versatility, and fuel efficiency, making it a great choice for those seeking a capable and fuel-conscious truck.

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The Jeep Gladiator has good mileage, similar to the 2023 RAM 1500

The Jeep Gladiator is a compact truck that was introduced in 2018 and is perfect for off-roading. It offers muscular gas and diesel V6 engines, a 5-foot bed, and a best-in-class payload capacity of 1,700 pounds. The Gladiator has a maximum towing capacity of 7,700 pounds and gets 19 miles per gallon combined (16/23 city/highway).

The 2023 RAM 1500 is a full-size pickup truck with a maximum payload rating of 2,300 pounds and a maximum towing capacity of 12,750 pounds. The RAM 1500 provides 61.5 cubic feet of cargo bed volume and offers five different powertrains, including V6, V8, and diesel engine options. The 2023 model is more fuel-efficient than the Gladiator, getting 22 miles per gallon combined (20/25 city/highway).

Both trucks have the latest technology, performance, and safety features, but the RAM 1500 offers a wider range of engine options and better fuel efficiency. The Jeep Gladiator, on the other hand, has better off-roading capabilities and a higher payload capacity.

When it comes to fuel mileage, the RAM 1500 outperforms the Jeep Gladiator, but both trucks have their unique strengths and are suited for different lifestyles and needs. The Jeep Gladiator is perfect for those who prioritize off-roading capabilities and payload capacity, while the RAM 1500 is a better choice for those who require higher towing capacity and better fuel efficiency.

Additionally, it's worth noting that fuel estimates for light-duty cars and trucks are readily available, making it easier to determine their fuel efficiency. However, heavy-duty trucks are not required to publish EPA mileage estimates, making it more challenging to compare their fuel efficiency directly.

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The GMC Yukon has improved towing capability and a classy interior

The GMC Yukon is a full-size SUV that offers a blend of capability, comfort, and luxury. Its impressive towing capacity, spacious interior, advanced technology features, and smooth ride make it a versatile and desirable vehicle for a wide range of drivers.

The 2025 GMC Yukon has an available max towing capacity of 8,400 pounds. It is powered by a 5.3L V8 engine, an available 6.2L V8 engine, or an available enhanced Duramax 3.0L Turbo-Diesel engine for even more torque. The new Yukon now has a more powerful version of the available Duramax 3.0L Turbo-Diesel engine, and the first-ever premium off-road-ready AT4 Ultimate trim has been introduced to the lineup. The AT4 Ultimate trim adds Active Response 4WD and a 4-corner Air Ride Adaptive Suspension, which adjusts suspension stiffness and pressure for enhanced ride comfort and includes selectable and automated ride height options to improve ground clearance and aerodynamic performance.

The GMC Yukon's interior is designed with flexible seating options that can easily be adjusted to maximize cargo space. The cargo capacity of the Yukon is impressive, with 25.50 square feet of cargo volume behind the third-row seats, 72.60 square feet behind the second-row seats, and 122.90 square feet behind the front seats. The 2024 GMC Yukon interior offers a spacious, luxurious, and high-tech full-size SUV experience. It combines luxurious materials with practical features that enhance every journey, whether it's a commute or a long trip. The standout comfort and convenience features available in the Yukon SUV include advanced climate control, heated and ventilated seats, and power-adjustable seating.

The GMC Yukon's interior is also designed with both driver and passenger comfort in mind. The premium interior offers authentic materials and high-end amenities to create an elevated travel experience. The 2024 GMC Yukon lineup features a state-of-the-art cabin with 10-way power front seats and a cavernous space with seating for up to nine people. The new 2025 Yukon is everything a luxury GMC SUV should be, with features like Woodland Mahogany full-grain leather seating surfaces and 16-way power front seats with a massage feature.

Frequently asked questions

The GMC Canyon has a fuel economy rated at 20 mpg in the city, 30 mpg on the highway, and 23 mpg combined. The Chevrolet Silverado with a 3.0 L Duramax Turbo diesel engine gets 23 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway. The GMC Sierra does slightly better than the Silverado at 23.7 mpg. The RAM 1500 EcoDiesel gets 21 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway.

Diesel trucks have been found to burn significantly less fuel at highway speeds, averaging 20% better fuel economy than gasoline trucks. Diesel trucks averaged 18 mpg, while gasoline trucks averaged 15 mpg.

You can calculate the fuel mileage of your truck by dividing the total miles driven by the number of gallons it took to fill the tank. For example, if it took 12 gallons to fill your tank and you drove 250 miles until empty, your truck's mpg is 20.8 mpg.

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