Pickup trucks have come a long way in balancing power, capability, and fuel efficiency. As fuel prices fluctuate and environmental concerns grow, miles per gallon (MPG) ratings—especially highway MPG—have become increasingly important for buyers.
Highway fuel economy reflects how efficiently a truck cruises at steady speeds, which is critical for long-distance drivers, commuters, and fleet operators.
Yet while some trucks have embraced hybrid systems, diesel tuning, or lightweight construction to improve highway MPG, others remain fuel-hungry machines prioritizing raw strength over efficiency.
This contrast is especially evident in today’s market. On one end, we have trucks designed with highway cruising efficiency in mind, featuring streamlined aerodynamics, smaller engines, and fuel-saving tech.
On the other, there are high-performance or heavy-duty models where fuel economy takes a backseat to off-road prowess, towing strength, or V8 power.
In this guide, we’ll explore five trucks with the highest highway cruise MPG, ideal for saving money on long trips.
Then we’ll pivot to five with the lowest highway efficiency, helping buyers understand what they’ll sacrifice for extreme power or size.
Whether you’re chasing fuel savings or towing dominance, knowing both ends of the efficiency spectrum is key to making an informed decision in today’s pickup market.
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5 Trucks With Highest Highway Cruise MPG
Fuel efficiency has become a crucial consideration for pickup truck buyers—particularly those who spend significant time on the highway.
While trucks are often associated with power and towing rather than fuel savings, many manufacturers now offer models optimized for long-distance cruising.
These trucks deliver excellent highway MPG figures, thanks to improved aerodynamics, downsized engines, hybrid systems, or even diesel powerplants. And as more people use trucks as daily drivers or for work commutes, highway MPG matters more than ever.
What’s important to understand is that highway fuel economy tells a different story than city MPG.
Unlike city driving, where stop-and-go traffic reduces efficiency, highway ratings measure how well a vehicle maintains momentum at steady speeds—often the scenario where a well-tuned powertrain shines.
Trucks that top this list aren’t necessarily the lightest or smallest, but they maximize efficiency at 60–70 mph, where wind resistance, engine tuning, and gear ratios play the biggest roles.
In this section, we highlight five pickup trucks that lead the market in highway MPG. These models are ideal for road trippers, business owners who travel between cities, or anyone who wants to lower fuel costs without switching to an SUV or car. Some are hybrids, some are diesel-powered, and others simply reflect great engineering.
Whether you’re a fuel-conscious commuter or a budget-minded buyer who drives long distances, these trucks prove that you can get impressive highway MPG without sacrificing the utility of a pickup.
Each model offers its own blend of performance, practicality, and fuel savings—and they all shine when it comes to steady-state cruising on the open road.
1. Ford Maverick Hybrid – Highway MPG: 37 MPG
When it comes to fuel-efficient pickups, the Ford Maverick Hybrid is in a class of its own. With a class-leading EPA-estimated 37 MPG on the highway, it’s the clear winner for those prioritizing fuel savings—without giving up the utility of a truck.
The Maverick proves that hybrid tech isn’t just for compact cars anymore—it can thrive in a functional, versatile pickup platform.
At the heart of the Maverick Hybrid is a 2.5-liter Atkinson-cycle inline-4 engine paired with an electric motor, producing a combined 191 horsepower.
It’s matched to a continuously variable transmission (CVT) that helps optimize efficiency at cruising speeds. While the Maverick Hybrid is only available in front-wheel drive—something that may be a downside for off-roaders—it excels on paved roads and highways, where it sips fuel like a compact sedan.
Despite its compact size, the Maverick doesn’t feel like a stripped-down economy vehicle. It offers a comfortable ride, quiet cabin, and intuitive tech features like an 8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and Ford Co-Pilot360 safety suite.
There’s room for five inside, plus a 4.5-foot bed with clever storage solutions and 1,500 pounds of payload capacity. It can also tow up to 2,000 pounds, which covers light trailers, small boats, or a pair of dirt bikes.
What makes the Maverick Hybrid shine as a highway MPG champion is its ability to maintain excellent efficiency without feeling underpowered or compromised.
At highway speeds, the hybrid system smoothly balances the gas engine and electric motor to minimize fuel consumption. Aerodynamically, it’s also well-designed for clean airflow, further helping with high-speed efficiency.
The Maverick Hybrid is particularly appealing to commuters and urban professionals who want the flexibility of a truck but drive mostly on-road. It also makes a great fleet vehicle thanks to its low operating costs and reliability.
With a starting price under $25,000, it’s also one of the most affordable trucks on the market—and arguably delivers the most bang for your buck when fuel economy is a priority.
In an era where most pickups hover in the teens or low 20s for highway MPG, the Ford Maverick Hybrid’s 37 MPG stands as a game-changing number. It redefines what efficiency in a pickup looks like—and proves that small doesn’t mean small-minded.
2. Ram 1500 EcoDiesel – Highway MPG: 33 MPG
For buyers seeking full-size capability without full-size fuel bills, the Ram 1500 EcoDiesel offers an exceptional solution.
With a highway fuel economy rating of 33 MPG, this version of Ram’s flagship truck combines long-range cruising efficiency with real-world muscle. Unlike smaller hybrids, the EcoDiesel is built for those who tow, haul, and drive serious miles—yet still want to save at the pump.
At the core of the EcoDiesel is a 3.0-liter V6 turbo-diesel engine, generating 260 horsepower and a stout 480 lb-ft of torque.
That torque figure rivals or beats many V8s, giving the truck outstanding pulling power—up to 12,560 pounds of towing capacity when properly configured. It’s paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission that keeps engine RPM low at highway speeds, contributing to its excellent MPG.
Ram also deserves credit for pairing diesel power with one of the most refined interiors in the segment.
Even in lower trims, the cabin feels well-constructed and comfortable. Move up to trims like Laramie or Limited, and you’re greeted with leather upholstery, a massive 12-inch touchscreen, active noise cancellation, and even real wood accents. This makes the EcoDiesel ideal for long-haul drivers who spend hours on the road and don’t want to feel like they’re in a work truck.
Why does it do so well on the highway? Diesel engines are naturally more efficient than gas when cruising at steady RPMs.
They also generate less CO₂ per mile and deliver longer range per tank—something long-distance drivers value. The EcoDiesel offers 700+ miles of highway driving range, meaning fewer stops and more efficiency on extended trips.
Another factor is Ram’s aerodynamic design. While it’s a full-size pickup, the Ram 1500 benefits from active grille shutters, an available air suspension that lowers at speed, and an overall streamlined silhouette—all of which reduce drag and improve highway MPG.
Although Ram has discontinued the EcoDiesel after the 2023 model year, used and certified pre-owned models remain highly sought after, especially among RV owners, rural drivers, and anyone who needs a long-range cruiser with torque to spare.
In short, the Ram 1500 EcoDiesel proves that you can have diesel strength and highway savings in one sleek, comfortable, and highly capable package.
3. Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Duramax – Highway MPG: 29 MPG
The Chevrolet Silverado 1500 with the Duramax diesel engine is one of the top contenders in the full-size truck category when it comes to highway fuel efficiency.
With an EPA-estimated 29 MPG on the highway, this truck proves that serious towing capacity and long-distance cruising can go hand in hand. It’s ideal for drivers who need a traditional work truck with all the benefits of diesel economy and torque.
Powering this Silverado is a 3.0-liter inline-six Duramax turbo-diesel engine that generates 305 horsepower and 495 lb-ft of torque—a torque figure that outpaces many gasoline V8s. This engine is paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission that helps keep revs low and cruising smooth on the highway.
Thanks to this combo, the Silverado Duramax can tow up to 13,300 pounds, making it one of the most capable fuel-efficient trucks available.
The Silverado 1500 has undergone several updates in recent years, particularly in cabin refinement and tech.
Even in mid-trim levels like LT or RST, drivers enjoy a comfortable, well-designed cabin, touchscreen infotainment with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and available features like wireless charging, premium audio, and trailering tech. Higher trims offer luxury touches that make this diesel truck suitable for daily driving and long hauls alike.
The reason the Duramax model does so well on the highway comes down to efficiency-focused engineering.
Its long-stroke diesel engine is ideal for steady-speed travel, while the Silverado’s aerodynamic improvements—including active grille shutters and a streamlined front end—help reduce wind resistance.
Add in the optimized 10-speed gearbox and optional rear-wheel-drive configuration, and the result is excellent high-speed MPG.
Chevrolet designed this engine not just for raw pulling power, but also for longevity and low operating cost.
Diesel engines generally last longer, and with fewer trips to the pump thanks to its large fuel tank and high efficiency, the Duramax Silverado appeals to high-mileage drivers, ranchers, and fleet owners.
If you want a full-size truck that won’t break the bank on highway fuel, the Silverado 1500 Duramax is a well-rounded choice. It blends capability, comfort, and efficiency with the durability diesel buyers count on—and it does so with nearly 30 MPG at highway speeds.
4. GMC Sierra 1500 Duramax – Highway MPG: 29 MPG
The GMC Sierra 1500 Duramax shares much of its DNA with the Silverado 1500, but brings a more upscale, premium flavor to the diesel-powered efficiency game.
With an EPA-estimated 29 MPG on the highway, it matches its Chevy sibling for long-distance economy, while offering additional luxury and styling appeal. It’s ideal for buyers who want diesel efficiency with a touch of refinement and everyday driving comfort.
At its core is the same 3.0-liter inline-six Duramax turbo-diesel engine found in the Silverado, producing 305 horsepower and 495 lb-ft of torque. It’s mated to a smooth 10-speed automatic transmission, which ensures that the engine stays in its optimal power band at highway speeds.
This setup allows for strong passing performance, effortless towing, and excellent fuel economy—all at once. The Sierra Duramax can tow up to 13,200 pounds, making it a capable hauler for boats, campers, and equipment.
Where the Sierra stands apart is in its design and interior quality. Especially in trims like SLT, AT4, and Denali, the cabin is quiet, luxurious, and tech-rich.
You’ll find premium leather, open-pore wood, and brushed metal accents, along with a massive 13.4-inch touchscreen and 12.3-inch digital driver display.
The infotainment system supports Google Built-In, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and advanced trailering tech. A heads-up display and rear camera mirror are also available, enhancing safety and ease during long hauls.
Highway MPG is further aided by the Sierra’s aerodynamic body structure, active grille shutters, and optional rear-wheel-drive setup. Combined, these features make the truck remarkably fuel-efficient considering its full-size dimensions and strong power output.
Another strength of the Duramax engine is low-end torque delivery and fuel range. With the Sierra’s large fuel tank, drivers can expect 600–700 miles of highway cruising per fill-up, which is particularly useful for cross-country travel or long worksite commutes.
In short, the GMC Sierra 1500 Duramax is a diesel truck that offers the best of both worlds—strong capability and real-world highway efficiency, paired with upscale comfort. It’s built for those who want to save at the pump but do it in style.
5. Ford F-150 PowerBoost Hybrid – Highway MPG: 26 MPG
The Ford F-150 PowerBoost Hybrid is a full-size truck that offers impressive performance and utility without sacrificing fuel economy.
With an EPA-estimated 26 MPG on the highway, it’s one of the most efficient full-size gasoline pickups available today, delivering a perfect balance between capability, innovation, and fuel savings.
Powering the F-150 PowerBoost is a unique 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 engine paired with a 35-kilowatt electric motor, resulting in a combined output of 430 horsepower and 570 lb-ft of torque.
This powertrain is mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission, providing smooth acceleration and optimized gear shifts that support better fuel economy at cruising speeds. Unlike traditional hybrids, the PowerBoost doesn’t feel underpowered—in fact, it offers stronger torque than the standard 3.5L EcoBoost.
In terms of capability, this hybrid doesn’t hold back. It can tow up to 12,700 pounds and handle a payload of up to 2,120 pounds, making it one of the most capable hybrid trucks ever produced.
The added efficiency makes it a practical choice for those who frequently drive on highways for work or travel, yet still need serious muscle for towing and hauling.
What also sets the PowerBoost apart is its integration of smart technology. It includes Ford’s Pro Power Onboard system, which turns the truck into a mobile generator capable of outputting up to 7.2 kW of electricity—enough to power tools, appliances, or even a jobsite.
The interior tech suite is equally impressive, with a 12-inch touchscreen, digital gauge cluster, and Ford’s SYNC 4 infotainment system. Wireless smartphone connectivity, available BlueCruise hands-free driving, and an interior work surface make it incredibly versatile.
Its highway efficiency is enhanced by engine start-stop functionality, regenerative braking, and strategic use of the electric motor to assist the gas engine during cruising. These hybrid systems work together to keep fuel consumption low while maintaining the power and feel of a traditional F-150.
For buyers who want a truck that can truly do it all—work hard, drive far, and waste less fuel—the Ford F-150 PowerBoost Hybrid is a top contender. It proves that hybrid technology can be a performance and efficiency win in even the most rugged of vehicles.
5 Trucks With Lowest Highway Cruise MPG
While pickup trucks have made significant strides in fuel economy over the past decade, some models still burn through fuel quickly—especially on the highway.
These trucks often prioritize raw power, off-road ability, towing strength, or sheer size over efficiency. And when equipped with big V8s, lifted suspensions, oversized tires, or heavy-duty frames, their highway fuel economy suffers significantly—with some dipping into the low teens.
For buyers who drive frequently at highway speeds, poor MPG ratings can mean frequent fill-ups, higher costs, and shorter driving ranges—especially painful when gas prices climb.
While these trucks may be unmatched in capability, they serve as important examples of how not all pickups are created equal when it comes to fuel savings.
In fact, many trucks with the worst highway mileage are the most powerful, heaviest, or off-road-oriented models in their class.
It’s not that these trucks are flawed—they just serve a very specific purpose. If you’re buying a supercharged V8 off-roader like the Ram TRX, you’re likely not concerned about sipping fuel.
But for shoppers who don’t need max towing or rock-crawling performance, it’s worth understanding what these lower-efficiency models will cost you in real-world highway use.
In this section, we explore five trucks with the lowest EPA-rated highway MPG currently available.
These aren’t necessarily bad trucks—in fact, many are among the most popular and powerful—but they highlight the trade-offs between performance and efficiency in the pickup world.
From high-output gas engines to massive HD diesels, we’ll break down what drives their poor mileage, who they’re built for, and why buyers should weigh their priorities carefully.
1. Ram 1500 TRX – Highway MPG: 14 MPG
The Ram 1500 TRX is one of the most extreme pickup trucks ever produced, but it also tops the charts for worst highway fuel economy, with an EPA-estimated 14 MPG on the highway.
Built to dominate deserts, off-road trails, and drag strips alike, the TRX trades fuel efficiency for unrelenting power, off-road capability, and sheer spectacle.
The heart of the TRX is its supercharged 6.2-liter HEMI V8, also known as the Hellcat engine, which produces a jaw-dropping 702 horsepower and 650 lb-ft of torque.
While this gives the TRX sports-car-like acceleration—0–60 mph in 4.5 seconds—it comes at a serious cost at the pump. Combine that power with a heavy curb weight of nearly 7,000 pounds, permanent four-wheel drive, and oversized 35-inch all-terrain tires, and the result is predictably poor fuel economy.
Aerodynamics are also not in the TRX’s favor. Its wide fender flares, aggressive grille, and raised suspension increase drag at highway speeds. Even when cruising steadily, the big V8 consumes fuel at a rapid rate.
It’s not unusual for real-world MPG to dip even lower than the EPA estimates if the truck is loaded, towing, or being driven aggressively.
Inside, the TRX is surprisingly refined. It features premium materials, a 12-inch touchscreen, Harman Kardon audio, and an available head-up display. It’s a luxury cabin wrapped in an off-road racing suit.
But no amount of comfort or tech changes the fact that you’ll be stopping for fuel often—the 33-gallon tank helps extend range, but fill-ups are costly.
To be clear, the TRX isn’t for buyers worried about gas mileage. It’s a niche performance machine aimed at enthusiasts who crave speed, sound, and trail domination. It excels in its mission, and no one buys a TRX thinking it will sip fuel.
But it’s important for shoppers to know that its highway fuel economy is among the lowest in the segment, rivaling some heavy-duty trucks and even older V10 models.
If you want brutal acceleration and Baja-ready capability in a factory-built package, the TRX delivers in spades. Just be ready to pay the price at the pump for every mile of exhilaration.
2. GMC Sierra 2500 HD Denali Ultimate (6.6L Gas V8) – Highway MPG: 14 MPG (Estimated)
The GMC Sierra 2500 HD Denali Ultimate is the pinnacle of GMC’s heavy-duty truck lineup—a luxurious, feature-packed machine designed for towing heavy loads and doing serious work.
But with its massive 6.6-liter gasoline V8 engine, it’s also one of the least efficient pickups on the road today, delivering an estimated 14 MPG on the highway when equipped in its standard rear-wheel-drive configuration—and potentially lower when fully loaded or with four-wheel drive.
Under the hood, the Sierra 2500’s gas-powered 6.6L V8 produces 401 horsepower and 464 lb-ft of torque, mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission. While it delivers solid towing performance (up to 17,200 pounds with a conventional hitch), it’s not designed for fuel economy.
The massive displacement and the weight of the truck—especially in its Denali Ultimate trim, which includes nearly every available luxury and tech feature—means it burns fuel quickly, even during steady-speed highway cruising.
The Sierra 2500 HD Denali Ultimate is packed with features that appeal to buyers who want both power and prestige.
It offers massaging leather seats, open-pore wood trim, a 13.4-inch touchscreen, digital instrument cluster, Bose premium audio, and a MultiPro tailgate.
It also includes advanced towing tools like a transparent trailer view, trailer side blind-zone alerts, and up to 14 camera views, making it ideal for RVers, contractors, or heavy-duty users.
But the downside of this power and tech is its poor highway efficiency. Despite modern transmission tuning and improved aerodynamics compared to older heavy-duty trucks, there’s only so much that can be done to improve mileage when moving a 7,500+ pound luxury workhorse down the highway with a large-displacement V8.
It’s worth noting that the available Duramax diesel version of this truck offers significantly better highway MPG (up to 20 MPG or more), though it comes at a premium price.
Still, for those who stick with gas for lower upfront cost or simpler maintenance, the trade-off is clear: more stops at the pump and higher long-distance operating costs.
If your priorities are comfort, capability, and confidence when towing, the Sierra 2500 HD Denali Ultimate fits the bill. Just know that when it comes to highway cruising, fuel economy isn’t its strong suit—it’s built to move mountains, not conserve fuel.
3. Ford F-250 Super Duty (7.3L V8 Gas) – Highway MPG: 15 MPG (Estimated)
The Ford F-250 Super Duty equipped with the 7.3-liter “Godzilla” V8 is a heavy-duty workhorse that offers tremendous capability and raw power, but it comes at the cost of fuel efficiency.
With an estimated highway MPG of just 15, it ranks among the lowest in highway fuel economy for gas-powered pickups—especially in its heavy-duty segment. This trade-off is expected, given the truck’s mission: delivering unrelenting performance under extreme loads.
The 7.3L V8 produces 430 horsepower and 485 lb-ft of torque, making it one of the most powerful naturally aspirated gasoline engines in any truck today.
Mated to Ford’s 10-speed TorqShift automatic transmission, the powertrain delivers smooth shifts and solid performance, especially when towing or hauling. When properly equipped, the F-250 can tow up to 15,000 pounds conventionally and over 20,000 pounds with a fifth-wheel or gooseneck setup.
On the highway, however, that power comes with a price. The massive engine displacement, heavy curb weight (well over 7,000 pounds in some configurations), and the truck’s tall stance create high aerodynamic drag, which quickly eats into fuel economy. Real-world numbers can dip even further depending on whether the truck is carrying a load or towing.
Inside, the F-250 doesn’t skimp on comfort—especially in higher trims like Lariat, King Ranch, or Platinum. The interior can be outfitted with leather upholstery, advanced infotainment, a digital driver display, and Ford’s full Co-Pilot360 safety suite.
While buyers may choose this truck for its muscle, the comfort and features make it surprisingly livable for long-haul drives—even if the fuel tank needs frequent refills.
Why would someone choose this configuration despite the low MPG? For starters, the 7.3L gas V8 offers a simpler, cheaper alternative to diesel, with fewer maintenance concerns and lower upfront cost.
It’s a popular choice for fleet buyers, contractors, and rural users who need serious capability without the complexity of diesel emissions systems.
But for those logging lots of highway miles without heavy loads, this truck can quickly rack up fuel costs. The F-250 7.3L V8 is designed for powerful performance and rugged durability, not highway fuel savings.
4. Toyota Tundra i-FORCE MAX (Hybrid) – Highway MPG: 20 MPG
It might come as a surprise, but the Toyota Tundra i-FORCE MAX—a full-size hybrid pickup—lands on the list of trucks with the lowest highway fuel economy.
Despite its hybrid badge, the Tundra i-FORCE MAX delivers only 20 MPG on the highway, according to EPA estimates. That number places it well below other hybrid and even some gas-powered competitors when it comes to steady-speed cruising.
This seems counterintuitive at first. Isn’t a hybrid supposed to save more fuel? Yes—but not all hybrid systems are built for the same goals. In the case of the Tundra i-FORCE MAX, Toyota’s primary aim was performance and torque, not outright fuel economy.
The truck combines a 3.4-liter twin-turbo V6 with a 48-hp electric motor, creating a combined output of 437 horsepower and 583 lb-ft of torque. It’s paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, giving it strong acceleration and solid towing capability—up to 12,000 pounds.
On city streets, the hybrid system shines, providing short bursts of electric-only driving and improved stop-start fuel efficiency.
But on the highway, where the truck runs mostly on gasoline power, the system’s benefits are diminished, and its relatively high curb weight—over 6,000 pounds—starts to work against it.
Add in its bold styling, wide stance, and off-road variants with larger tires, and aerodynamic efficiency becomes a challenge.
Inside, the Tundra i-FORCE MAX impresses with luxury-grade features, especially in trims like Capstone, Limited, or Platinum. You’ll find premium leather, a panoramic moonroof, 14-inch infotainment display, and the latest safety tech.
The cabin is quiet, spacious, and beautifully laid out—one of the best in the segment. But again, these comforts also add weight, which further impacts its cruising efficiency.
So why does this hybrid truck make the list? Because it’s a hybrid that doesn’t behave like one on the highway.
Buyers expecting Prius-like efficiency will be disappointed—especially when compared to the Ford PowerBoost hybrid or diesel-powered trucks that routinely exceed 25–30 highway MPG.
The Tundra i-FORCE MAX is a great truck overall, offering torque-rich performance and urban fuel savings. But when it comes to long-distance cruising, its 20 MPG highway rating makes it one of the least efficient pickups in its class.
5. Nissan Titan XD (5.6L V8) – Highway MPG: 18 MPG
The Nissan Titan XD occupies a unique space in the pickup segment—straddling the line between light-duty and heavy-duty trucks. With a 5.6-liter naturally aspirated V8 under the hood, it offers stout performance and work-ready capability.
However, that comes at the cost of efficiency. The Titan XD delivers an EPA-estimated 18 MPG on the highway, placing it among the least efficient trucks in today’s market for highway driving.
The Titan XD’s 5.6-liter Endurance V8 churns out 400 horsepower and 413 lb-ft of torque, and is paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission.
While this engine provides solid acceleration and smooth power delivery, it lacks the downsized turbocharging or hybrid technology that helps newer competitors boost efficiency.
The Titan XD’s extra size and reinforced frame—designed to give it higher towing and payload capacities—make it heavier than typical half-ton pickups, and that added weight directly impacts highway fuel economy.
In terms of towing and hauling, the Titan XD is no slouch. It can pull up to 11,000 pounds and haul around 2,400 pounds, depending on configuration.
It’s built on a beefier frame than the standard Titan, which gives it more durability but also contributes to its thirsty nature on the open road.
The Titan XD also features a comfortable and straightforward interior. In trims like PRO-4X and Platinum Reserve, you’ll find amenities like leather seats, NissanConnect infotainment with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, premium audio, and driver assistance features like blind-spot monitoring and adaptive cruise control.
Yet even with these creature comforts, the Titan XD can’t overcome the fuel penalties associated with its weight and naturally aspirated powertrain.
On the highway, its boxy shape and large tires generate more aerodynamic drag than smaller or more streamlined competitors. Even when driven conservatively, the truck struggles to break 20 MPG, and real-world numbers often dip into the mid-teens—especially when towing.
The Nissan Titan XD is designed for buyers who want something tougher than a light-duty pickup but without the complexity of a true heavy-duty diesel. That’s a narrow market, and unfortunately, it comes with one of the lowest highway MPG ratings in its class.
The modern pickup truck segment offers a fascinating spectrum when it comes to highway fuel efficiency.
On one end, we have trucks like the Ford Maverick Hybrid and Ram 1500 EcoDiesel, delivering close to or above 30 MPG on the highway, ideal for commuters, fleet operators, and long-distance drivers looking to maximize value.
These fuel-sippers demonstrate that with smart engineering—whether through hybridization, diesel optimization, or lightweight design—pickups can be both capable and efficient.
The Maverick Hybrid, for example, redefines what a compact truck can be, offering hybrid economy in a daily-drivable package under $30,000.
Meanwhile, full-size models like the Silverado and Sierra Duramax diesels prove that you can tow serious weight and still enjoy nearly 30 MPG on the highway.
Even the F-150 PowerBoost Hybrid gives buyers a blend of muscle and mileage that was unheard of just a few years ago.
However, at the other end of the fuel economy spectrum are trucks like the Ram TRX, Titan XD, and F-250 Super Duty with the 7.3L V8, which trade efficiency for brute force, size, and capability.
These trucks serve specific roles—whether it’s off-road domination, heavy-duty towing, or maximum interior luxury—but they make clear that fuel economy is not their focus.
While they offer incredible performance and comfort, their real-world fuel usage can be a financial burden for long-distance drivers.
Some hybrids, like the Tundra i-FORCE MAX, sit somewhere in between—showcasing great power and features, but failing to deliver standout highway MPG. This highlights the importance of knowing what a hybrid system is tuned for: not all are built strictly to improve cruising efficiency.
Ultimately, these comparisons highlight the trade-offs buyers face: more MPG often means less power, and more performance usually means more frequent fuel stops. The good news is that today’s market is broad enough to meet a wide range of needs.
Whether you’re a weekend adventurer, a long-distance hauler, or an urban commuter with the occasional need for a bed and tailgate, there’s a truck tailored for your lifestyle—and your highway habits.
By understanding both extremes, buyers can make smarter decisions that balance capability, cost, and efficiency in the ways that matter most.
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