2024’s Top 10 Fuel-Efficient Pickup Trucks: Changing the Game

In the realm of automotive stereotypes, pickup trucks have long been associated with poor fuel economy, especially the full-size models. However, this perception is gradually shifting as automakers embrace advanced technologies to make their trucks more fuel-efficient without compromising performance.

Historically, pickup trucks lagged behind in fuel efficiency, often outperformed even by high-performance sports cars with thirsty V10 and V12 engines. This trend persisted as larger trucks with powerful engines and high towing capacities dominated the market. However, recent years have witnessed a significant transformation in the pickup truck segment.

One notable example is the Ford Maverick, a compact pickup truck that defies the traditional notion of gas guzzlers. Equipped with a 2.5-liter hybrid powertrain, the Maverick achieves an impressive 42 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway, setting a new standard for fuel efficiency in the pickup truck category.

Ford’s commitment to fuel efficiency extends to its full-size lineup as well. The Ford F150, a staple in the pickup truck market, now offers a 3.5-liter turbocharged V6 engine paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, delivering a remarkable 22 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway. This demonstrates that even larger trucks can achieve respectable fuel economy with the right technology.

Turbocharging has also played a crucial role in improving fuel efficiency in diesel-powered trucks. The Chevrolet Silverado 1500, for instance, boasts a 3.0-liter V6 diesel engine that delivers an impressive 23 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway, along with a robust towing capacity of up to 13,300 pounds. This combination of efficiency and capability makes it an attractive option for those seeking both power and fuel savings.

The rise of electric powertrains has further revolutionized the pickup truck segment. Electric pickups, such as the Rivian R1T, offer a glimpse into the future of sustainable transportation. The Rivian R1T achieves an EPA-rated equivalent of up to 91 mpg in the city and 77 mpg on the highway, all while being able to tow up to 11,000 pounds when properly equipped. While their real-world range may be impacted by heavy towing, these electric pickups represent a significant step towards reducing our reliance on fossil fuels.

Despite these advancements, some pickup trucks still prioritize performance over fuel economy. The Ram 1500 TRX, for example, features a supercharged V8 Hellcat engine that delivers a staggering 702 horsepower but comes at a cost of just 10 mpg in the city and 14 mpg on the highway, highlighting the trade-off between power and efficiency in the pickup truck market.

In conclusion, the landscape of pickup trucks is evolving rapidly, with manufacturers embracing new technologies to make their trucks more fuel-efficient than ever before. Whether through hybrid, turbocharged, diesel, or electric powertrains, pickup trucks are becoming more environmentally friendly without compromising their utility and performance, marking a significant shift in the perception of these vehicles.