Mercedes Mullins
If you're looking for a diesel truck with good fuel economy, there are a few things to consider. Firstly, light-duty trucks generally have better fuel efficiency than heavy-duty trucks, as they require less power and fuel to run. Secondly, the way you drive and maintain your truck can also impact its fuel economy. For example, trucks used for towing or hauling will typically have reduced fuel efficiency. When it comes to specific models, the Chevy Silverado 1500 with the 3.0L Duramax engine stands out for its blend of power and economy, offering up to 33 mpg on the highway and 23 mpg in the city. Other good options include the GMC Sierra 1500, which has the same engine and fuel economy as the Silverado, and the Ram 1500 EcoDiesel, which achieves up to 32 mpg on the highway and 22 mpg in the city. For heavy-duty trucks, the Ford F-250 Super Duty and the Chevrolet Silverado 2500 HD are popular choices, although exact fuel economy figures may vary depending on real-world conditions and usage.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Best MPG | Chevy Silverado/GMC Sierra 1500 3.0L Duramax: 23.3 MPG |
| RAM 1500 EcoDiesel: 22.6 MPG | |
| GMC Sierra: 23.7 MPG | |
| Chevy Silverado 1500: 23.2 MPG | |
| Ford F-250 Super Duty: 15.1 MPG | |
| Chevrolet Silverado 2500 HD: 14.3 MPG | |
| Ram 2500: 15.7 MPG | |
| Diesel Chevy Silverado 2500 HD: 18 MPG in the city, 21 MPG on the highway | |
| 2018 Ram 2500: 20 MPG | |
| 2023 Ford F-250 Super Duty: 20 MPG | |
| Fuel economy factors | Weight, condition, age, usage, driving techniques, maintenance, and more |
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What You'll Learn
Light-duty trucks vs. heavy-duty trucks
Light-duty trucks, or Class 1-3 trucks, are typically non-commercial vehicles such as minivans, cargo vans, SUVs, and pickup trucks. They are more generalized and versatile and are perfect for daily driving due to their smaller size and better manoeuvrability. They have a payload capacity of around 1,500 to 3,000 pounds and can tow around 12,000 pounds. Light-duty trucks are also more affordable than heavy-duty trucks.
Historically, light-duty trucks with smaller iterations of the Cummins, Powerstroke, and Duramax diesel engines had the best fuel economy. However, diesel engine options have become scarce in recent light-duty truck models. Light-duty trucks are subject to certification and compliance from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), which includes providing an estimated fuel economy. As such, it is easy to determine which light-duty vehicle has the best fuel economy.
The Chevy Silverado 1500 with the 2nd gen 3.0 (LZ0) can get up to 30 miles per gallon (mpg) with the right driving conditions. The GMC Sierra, which has a similar engine, does slightly better at 23.7 mpg. The Chevy Silverado 1500's predecessor, the "Baby Duramax," offered 277 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque, while the newer model offers an upgrade at 305 horsepower and 495 pound-feet of torque.
Heavy-duty trucks, or Class 7-8 trucks, are specialized for heavy-duty tasks and have a much larger size. They offer a payload capacity of over 6,500 pounds and a towing capacity of over 20,000 pounds. Due to their heavier weight, heavy-duty trucks tend to have lower fuel economy figures than light-duty trucks. However, heavy-duty diesel trucks have been found to burn significantly less fuel at highway speeds compared to their gas-fed counterparts.
While heavy-duty trucks are not required to report their fuel economy, publications like Consumer Reports or Car and Driver conduct independent testing. In a test of 22 heavy-duty pickups, diesel trucks averaged 18 mpg, while gas-fed models averaged 15 mpg. Only two diesel trucks, the 2018 Ram 2500 and the 2023 Ford F-250 Super Duty, achieved over 20 mpg.
Overall, when choosing between a light-duty and a heavy-duty truck, consider your specific needs and budget. Light-duty trucks are ideal for daily driving and offer better fuel economy, while heavy-duty trucks provide more payload and towing capacity for specialized tasks.
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Real-world fuel economy tests
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) requires light-duty vehicles to have an efficient MPG average to be certified. However, heavy-duty trucks are not required to report their fuel economy, making it challenging to determine which HD truck has the best mileage. Nevertheless, publications like Consumer Reports or Car and Driver conduct real-world testing to gather independent data.
Car and Driver tested 22 heavy-duty pickups on their HFE route, with the diesel trucks averaging 18 mpg and the gas-fed models averaging 15 mpg. This means the diesel trucks achieved 20% better fuel economy. Of the 22 HD pickups tested, only two diesels achieved over 20 mpg: the 2018 Ram 2500 and the 2023 Ford F-250 Super Duty.
The Chevy Silverado 1500 with a 3.0L LZ0 engine achieves an average of 23.2 mpg in real-world results on Fuelly, while the GMC Sierra does slightly better at 23.7 mpg. The Ram 1500 EcoDiesel achieves an average of 22.6 MPG. The Ford F-250 Super Duty achieves 15.1 MPG in real-world conditions.
It is important to note that mpg varies depending on driving conditions and usage. Trucks used for towing or hauling will have reduced fuel economy. To get a more accurate mpg estimate, it is recommended to run multiple tests under different conditions.
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Improving fuel economy in diesel trucks
Diesel trucks are not known for their impressive mileage, but there are ways to improve their fuel economy.
Firstly, it is important to note that the mileage varies depending on the truck's usage and where it is driven. Trucks used for towing or hauling will have reduced fuel economy. Driving style also plays a significant role in fuel efficiency. Braking and accelerating cause energy loss, so maintaining a steady speed is crucial. Using cruise control can help with this, especially on highways, but it is important to remain vigilant and adjust speeds according to traffic flow and road conditions. Additionally, driving at high speeds increases aerodynamic drag and fuel consumption, so staying within the speed range of 55-65 mph is optimal for fuel economy.
Secondly, keeping the truck well-maintained is essential. Regular tune-ups, oil changes, and cleaning of residue buildup can help the engine perform at its best. Proper tire maintenance is also vital. Under-inflated or over-inflated tires reduce fuel efficiency, so keeping them at the recommended pressure levels is important. Additionally, using low rolling resistance tires designed for fuel efficiency can improve mileage.
Upgrading to more fuel-efficient engines and transmissions can be beneficial. Aftermarket diesel parts can improve airflow and fuel flow efficiency, but it is important to consult a certified diesel mechanic before purchasing, as some products may not improve mileage. Advanced air intake products can improve engine performance, and cold air intakes can enhance long-term engine durability.
Finally, some simple adjustments can make a difference. Reducing wind resistance with covers and tarps can lower drag and improve fuel economy. Minimizing the use of air conditioning and heating can also help, as they can reduce fuel economy.
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Top-rated diesel trucks
The best fuel economy diesel trucks will vary depending on how they are being used, where they are being driven, and their weight, condition, and age. Light-duty trucks tend to have better fuel economy than heavy-duty trucks, as they require less power and fuel to drive. Heavy-duty trucks are often used for tougher tasks, like hauling and towing.
The Chevy Silverado 1500 with a 3.0L LZ0 engine stands out for its blend of power and economy. It can achieve 23 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway. The GMC Sierra 1500 has the same engine and can reach up to 33 mpg on the highway. The Ram 1500 EcoDiesel is another efficient option, with an average of 22.6 mpg and 32 mpg on the highway.
The Ford F-250 Super Duty is a popular heavy-duty truck, achieving around 15.1 mpg in real-world conditions. The Ram 2500 is another turbocharged, heavy-duty option, with an average of 15.7 mpg.
It's worth noting that aftermarket parts and good maintenance can improve a truck's fuel economy. Additionally, driving techniques, such as maintaining proper tire pressure and avoiding excessive idling, can also impact fuel efficiency.
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Best diesel trucks for off-roading
When it comes to diesel trucks with the best fuel economy, the Chevy Silverado 1500 with the 2nd gen 3.0 (LZ0) engine is often recommended. It can achieve up to 30 miles per gallon (mpg) on the highway, and even more on longer road trips. The GMC Sierra, with a similar engine, can achieve slightly better fuel economy, at 23.7 mpg. The Chevy Silverado 2500 HD, with its 6.6-liter V8 Duramax engine, also offers good fuel efficiency, with 18 mpg in the city and 21 mpg on the highway.
Now, if you're specifically looking for diesel trucks that are suitable for off-roading, there are a few options that stand out. The Chevy Silverado 1500 ZR2 and the GMC Sierra 1500 AT4X are both full-size off-roaders from General Motors. They offer impressive off-road capabilities, with features like Multimatic DSSV spool-valve dampers, rock sliders, and Terrain mode for one-pedal trail driving. These trucks are powered by a choice of engines, including the 3.0-liter Duramax diesel inline-six. The Ram Power Wagon is another option for off-road enthusiasts. It's a heavy-duty 4x4 truck with a 6.4-liter gasoline Hemi V-8 engine and features like locking front and rear differentials, skid plates, and an electronic disconnecting front anti-roll bar, making it capable of tackling challenging terrain. For those seeking a diesel engine in a Ram truck, the 2018 Ram 2500 with the S/O Cummins diesel engine is worth considering. It achieved 20 mpg in real-world testing and is a capable heavy-duty pickup.
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Frequently asked questions
The Chevy Silverado 1500 with a 3.0L Duramax engine offers up to 33 MPG on the highway and 23 MPG in the city, making it one of the most efficient trucks in its class. The GMC Sierra 1500 has the same engine and achieves similar mileage.
The Ram 1500 EcoDiesel achieves up to 32 MPG on the highway and 22 MPG in the city. The Ford F-250 Super Duty is another popular choice, although its real-world MPG average is 14.3.
Light-duty trucks generally offer better fuel economy than heavy-duty trucks as they require less power and fuel to drive. Heavy-duty trucks are designed for tougher hauling and towing tasks.
There are several ways to improve the fuel economy of your diesel truck:
- Ensure your tires are inflated to the recommended pressure.
- Do not overload your vehicle beyond its maximum weight capacity and distribute weight evenly.
- Optimize your routes by considering distance and traffic conditions.
- Perform regular maintenance and address any potential issues.
- Minimize idling and accelerate smoothly to reduce fuel consumption.
- Use cruise control when driving at a constant speed on flat terrain.
