List Of The 9 Most Fuel Efficient 4×4 Trucks Of All Time In 2023
It used to be difficult to find the most fuel efficient 4×4 trucks of all time that were also at a reasonable cost. Today’s truck market offers full-size vehicles like the Ford F-150 and midsize trucks like the Toyota Tacoma, both of which offer higher fuel efficiency.
Fuel-efficient pickup trucks that come with hybrid powertrains and gasoline and diesel engines are still available today. Even though they don’t have the same EPA ratings as sedans or SUVs.
Over time, pickup truck fuel economy ratings have increased. Therefore, there are fuel-efficient pickup trucks with RWD, AWD, and 4WD for off-road aficionados. Fuel Efficient 4×4 Trucks have numerous variations, including crew cabs, double cabs, extended cabs, and different bed lengths.
You can find a full-size pickup truck or an economical midsize pickup with better fuel efficiency. So, we’ve put together a list of the top 9 fuel-efficient pickup trucks. Each of these pickup trucks is a powerful workhorse with a soft side. This indicates that they are just as effective as family cars.
Top 9 Most Fuel Efficient 4×4 Trucks Of All Time For 2023
You’ve come to the right location if you’re wondering for the most fuel-efficient full-size 4×4 truck. We combed through all the data to present you with the top models in the midsize, full-size, and heavy-duty segments and some of the best diesel.
A truck’s usefulness includes towing, off-roading, and hauling freight. Buyers seeking fuel-efficient trucks have many options to choose from. As a result of improved engines, including turbocharged and diesel options.
We used the most fuel-efficient trim and total MPG rating to rank these full-size 4×4 pickup trucks. The trucks are priced for the most fuel-efficient trim with any required powertrain improvements. Check out these options if you’re looking for the most fuel-efficient trucks of all time.
1. 2023 Ford Maverick
Key Specifications
- Brand: Ford
- Horsepower: 191 HP
- Torque: 151 lb-ft
- Fuel Economy: 23/City, 30/Hwy MPG
- Pedestrian Detection
- Forward Collision Warning
- In-Car Wifi
- Infotainment System
The brand-new Ford Maverick is a new type of pickup that is small, reasonably priced, and fuel-efficient. It is ideal for people who seek a truck’s mobility and city-friendly dimensions.
There are 3 trim options available for the 5-seat Ford Maverick. The XL SuperCrew FWD, with a starting price of $21,490 and a Hybrid 2.5L I4 engine, is the most popular model. According to estimates, Maverick gets 30 MPG on the highway and 23 MPG in the city.
The newest Ford Maverick is the smallest and most affordable pickup truck available. The Maverick is also the most fuel-efficient 4×4 pickup truck available. Maverick comes with a base hybrid engine or an optional turbocharged gas engine.
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It still can tow and haul a payload, and its highly adaptable bed suits virtually every lifestyle. Ford also provides a tough FX4 kit for added off-road ability. There is a spacious cabin with seating for five people and numerous nooks for storage.
2. 2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz
Key Specifications
- Brand: Hyundai
- Horsepower: 191 HP
- Torque: 181 lb-ft
- Fuel Economy: 21/City, 27/Hwy MPG
- Hill Descent Assist
- Lane Keep Assist
- Blind Spot System
- Forward Collision Warning
The Hyundai Santa Cruz delivers a fascinating tangle of benefits and is a cross between a crossover and a pickup truck. It will make running errands possible for city dwellers by having an AWD system and a high-output engine.
The 5-seat Hyundai Santa Cruz is available in 4 model levels. The SEL AWD, which has a 2.5L I4 engine and a starting price of $30,435, is the most popular model. Santa Cruz is predicted to have a city MPG of 21 and a highway MPG of 27.
Santa Cruz offers a five-passenger cabin with immense comfort. That was never an option for mini-pickups. With its optional 281-horsepower turbocharged engine, Santa Cruz provides. The inside features are exactly what one would anticipate from a small contemporary crossover.
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Santa Cruz has a slightly shorter wheelbase and is around 4 inches shorter than the Ford Maverick. Santa Cruz and the Ford Maverick both share several features. Moreover, this truck is one of the most fuel-efficient trucks of all time.
3. 2023 GMC Canyon
Key Specifications
- Brand: GMC
- Horsepower: 200 HP
- Torque: 191 lb-ft
- Fuel Economy: 19/City, 25/Hwy MPG
- Power Trunk/Liftgate
- Infotainment System
- Backup Camera
- Android Auto/Apple CarPlay
The midsize GMC Canyon vehicle comes in several different versions and has many optional amenities. It features a good tow rating and a well-behaved ride. But because of its poor safety scores, it suffers.
There are 4 trim levels available for the 4-seat GMC Canyon. The Elevation Crew Cab Short Box 2WD, which has a 2.5L I4 engine and starts at $33,695, is the most popular model. According to estimates, this Canyon gets 25 MPG on the highway and 19 MPG in the city.
Off-road AT4 and opulent Denali fuel-efficient pickups are available with the GMC Canyon midsize truck. A 6-foot bed is included with the extended cab model, which has four seats. In addition, a 4-door option with a bed that is 5-6 feet long is available. Explore our range of GMC work trucks, including the Canyon midsize truck, offering versatility and reliability for your business needs.
Rear-wheel or four-wheel drive, as well as two gas engines or a turbo diesel, are all options for the Canyon. It is simple to locate a Canyon that meets your demands due to the wide variety of configurations.
A luxurious interior, an extensive multimedia system, and a high tow rating are positive characteristics. However, it fails crash tests and has few standard safety measures. Also, it is one of the most fuel-efficient diesel 4×4 trucks of all time.
4. 2023 Chevrolet Colorado
Key Specifications
- Brand: Chevrolet
- Horsepower: 200 HP
- Torque: 191 lb-ft
- Fuel Economy: 17/City, 24/Hwy MPG
- Proximity Keyless Entry
- In-Car WiFi
- Alarm System
- Backup Camera
Most people are familiar with the Chevrolet Colorado pickup truck. Nevertheless, Chevy has kept the truck modern with a powerful V6 engine, good towing, and off-road prowess.
The Chevrolet Colorado has 4 trim levels and seats 4 people. The most popular model is the Z71 Crew Cab Short Box 4WD, with a starting price of $39,495 and a 3.6L V6 engine. The predicted city and highway MPG for this Colorado is 17 and 24, respectively.
Colorado will give you a comfortable ride, easy maneuverability, and off-road capability that outshines the most fuel-efficient 4X4 trucks of all time.
The midsize truck is available with two cabs (Extended and Crew) and two different bed lengths (5-foot-2-inch and 6-foot-2-inch). Both two-wheel drive and four-wheel drive are options for every model. In addition to the WT, LT, and Z71 trims, there is now a top-of-the-line ZR2 model specifically intended for challenging off-road conditions. Most Colorados have a powerful 306-horsepower V6 under the hood.
Some variants come with a four-cylinder engine, while a more expensive diesel option is also available. Compared to other midsize trucks, the V6 has greater power and accelerates more quickly.
5. 2023 Ram 1500
Key Specifications
- Brand: Ram
- Horsepower: 260 HP
- Torque: 480 lb-ft
- Fuel Economy: 19/City, 24/Hwy MPG
- Running Boards
- Start/Stop System
- Brake Assist
- Remote Keyless Entry
The luxury cabin and comfy ride of the 2023 Ram 1500 easily place it among the finest vehicles in its class. It offers a large selection of engines, including high-performance models. Ram 1500 is one of the best gas mileage 4-wheel drive trucks.
There are 9 trim levels available for the 5-seater Ram 1500. The Laramie Crew Cab 5’7″ Box 4WD starts at $55,335, and a 3.6L V6 engine is the most popular model. The expected city and highway MPG for this 1500 are 19 and 24, respectively.
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It is available in various variants, including those with crew or quad cabs and RWD & 4WD. Additionally, it offers a variety of customized editions and two-bed lengths spanning nine trims.
Maximum payload and towing capacity are up to 2,300 pounds and 12,750 pounds, respectively. High-performance versions of the truck are also available for those who want to take on high-speed off-roading. Pricing ranges from $34,500 for the base trim to $72,000 for the best trim.
6. 2023 Ford Ranger
Key Specifications
- Brand: Ford
- Horsepower: 270 HP
- Torque: 310 lb-ft
- Fuel Economy: 19/City, 24/Hwy MPG
- Remote Engine Start
- Pedestrian Detection
- Blind Spot System
- Lane Keep Assist
The Ford Ranger is a reliable midsize fuel efficient 4×4 truck with rapid acceleration, an agile feel, and good mileage. A bumpy ride and a dated interior are the only flaws in an otherwise strong truck. Ford has always been a known name in the truck industry and makes one of the most fuel-efficient 4×4 trucks of all time.
There are 3 trim options available for the 4-seat Ford Ranger. The XLT SuperCrew 5′ Box 4WD, starting at $37,185 and a 2.3L I4 Turbo engine, is the most popular model. According to estimates, this Ranger gets 19 city MPG and 24 highway MPG.
The Ford Ranger is among the best in its class due to its many available variants and affordable price. With its base 2.0-liter, 4-cylinder turbocharged engine, it provides excellent performance.
The 10-speed automatic transmission complements it well, resulting in a responsive feel and good fuel economy. However, the Ranger has a stiff ride quality, which makes for a bustling ride on bumpy roads.
The Ranger offers a wide variety with its three trim levels, two body types (extended or crew cab), and RWD- or 4WD. The Ranger stands out among its competitors thanks to various option packages with various themes.
7. 2023 Honda Ridgeline
Key Specifications
- Brand: Honda
- Horsepower: 280 HP
- Torque: 262 lb-ft
- Fuel Economy: 18/City, 24/Hwy MPG
- Adaptive Cruise Control
- Fog Lamps
- Keyless Ignition
- Forward Collision Warning
The Honda Ridgeline provides a practical blend of car and truck features. The comfort of a vehicle is provided by its distinctive build, and the bed provides a midsize pickup’s utility. Honda Ridgeline comes out as one of the most fuel-efficient 4×4 trucks ever.
A 5-seater vehicle with 4 trim options is the Honda Ridgeline. The AWD RTL-E is the most popular design, with a starting price of $45,365 and a 3.5L V6 engine. According to estimates, this Ridgeline will get 18 MPG in the city and 24 MPG on the highway.
The Honda Ridgeline is an unusual pickup vehicle and has always been. Ridgeline adopted independent rear suspension and unibody construction. The Ridgeline has an AWD system, a single available engine, and a five-passenger crew cab body.
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Compared to the tiniest Colorado, the Ridgeline is about 2 inches shorter. And compared to the crew-cab Ranger, it is half an inch shorter.
8. 2023 Nissan Frontier
Key Specifications
- Brand: Nissan
- Horsepower: 310 HP
- Torque: 281 lb-ft
- Fuel Economy: 18/City, 24/Hwy MPG
- Pedestrian Detection
- Proximity Keyless Entry
- Keyless Ignition
- Brake Assist
Frontier has a modern, square-jawed design with a segment-best standard 310 horsepower. The new Nissan Frontier is now a strong competitor in the midsize pickup truck market. Nissan Frontier performs great as it looks and is one of the most fuel-efficient diesel 4×4 trucks of all time.
There are four trim levels available for the 5-seat Nissan Frontier. The SV Crew Cab 2WD, starting at $34,085 and a 3.8L V6 engine, is the most popular model. According to estimates, this Frontier will get 18 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway.
The all-new Nissan Frontier provides sheet metal with a square-jawed front end, a large grille, strong flanks, and a broad stance. The exterior is ruggedly beautiful and opens to reveal a chic cabin. Frontier offers the newest driver-assist systems and infotainment tech.
New hydraulic body mounts, quicker ratio steering, and improved handling suspension adjustments are added to the Frontier. King Cab and Crew Cab are the two remaining cab configurations.
A four-passenger extended cab with short, rear-hinged doors is called a “King Cab.” The five-passenger Crew Cab sports four regular-size, front-hinged doors.
9. 2023 Jeep Gladiator
Key Specifications
- Brand: Jeep
- Horsepower: 285 HP
- Torque: 260 lb-ft
- Fuel Economy: 16/City, 23/Hwy MPG
- Convertible Roof
- Keyless Ignition
- Running Boards
- Brake Assist
The Jeep Gladiator offers to the midsize truck market everything customers adore about the Jeep brand. It can participate in off-road activities while carrying out the tasks of a midsize truck. There’s no doubt that the Jeep Gladiator is one of the most powerful pickup trucks, but it is also one of the most fuel-efficient 4×4 trucks of all time.
The Jeep Gladiator has five seats and ten different trim options. The Rubicon 4WD, starting at $50,705 with a 3.6L V6 engine, is the most popular design. The Gladiator’s projected city and highway MPGs are 16 and 23, respectively.
The Jeep Gladiator is a top choice in the midsize truck market if you engage in a lot of off-roading. It features the recognizable Jeep Wrangler style. The spacious pickup truck bed can accommodate a sizable amount of cargo.
Gladiator was created and constructed to be the best off-road pickup truck. There are three different four-wheel-drive systems included with the Gladiator. Nissan Frontier crew-cab short-beds are more than 8 inches shorter than Jeep Gladiator four-doors.
Discover The Different Types Of 4*4 Pickup Trucks In 2023
Many manufacturers provide compact trucks, which are the least expensive. The most popular type is by far full-sized pickups, sometimes known as half-ton trucks. The 2500 and 3500 for heavy-duty trucks indicate the vehicles’ increased capacities.
Additionally, the truck grows more commercially oriented the higher the number. However, these firms do provide luxurious versions of their heavy-duty vehicles. Customers can select extended-cab and crew-cab body styles in 2WD, AWD, and 4WD, and a wide range of engines and transmissions.
A. Compact Pickup Trucks
The available pickup trucks in this class are the Chevrolet Colorado, Ford Ranger, Honda Ridgeline, and Nissan Frontier. Like their full-sized counterparts, the majority are made utilizing body-on-frame construction. A variety of four-cylinder and V6 engines are typically available as well.
With an independent rear suspension, the Honda Ridgeline has a unibody design. As one of the most luxurious truck rides, the Ridgeline benefits from this.
The least expensive compact truck, a standard 2WD Ford Maverick, starts at roughly $20,000. A top-trim Gladiator can cost more than $50,000, the other extreme. Most of the middle-of-the-road, 4WD crew-cab models that CR has examined cost between $37,000 and $41,000.
B. Full-Sized Pickup Trucks
These are the pickup industry’s powerful workhorses. They ride above the ground above compacts and are bigger and more robust. The Ram 1500, Toyota Tundra, and Chevrolet Silverado 1500 are current examples of vehicles in this category.
They operate well as work vehicles and, for many, take the place of the family vehicle. Various powertrain options are available, from turbocharged four-cylinders to vintage V8s and even a hybrid option.
Most well-equipped crew-cab vehicles with the 4WD range in price from $45,000 to $55,000. Any of the various turbo diesel engines will significantly increase the cost. Naturally, there are numerous ways to lose money with these trucks.
C. Heavy-Duty Trucks
Numbers like 2500 or 3500 identify these enormous trucks. They are designed for carrying and muscling heavy loads. These are large vehicles for the toughest jobs.
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Before extras, the base price of a regular-cab, 2WD, 2500-series works truck is about $37,000. Additionally, the price of a fully loaded, top-of-the-line, 4WD crew-cab vehicle with a diesel engine can easily exceed $80,000.
Factors To Consider When Choosing A Most Fuel-Efficient 1/2 Ton 4×4 Truck
Four-wheel drive trucks have become more prevalent in the last few years. A truck can be tough to choose, especially if you are looking for fuel-efficient 1/2 Ton 4×4 truck and intend to do some off-road driving.
Trucks are a well-liked choice because of their general adaptability. They handle off-road adventures like pros and can easily haul people and things. Before purchasing a truck, you need to understand these five points, though.
1. Cab Size
Extended cabs are far handier even if standard cabs are the least expensive option. Rear seats in extended cabs are frequently fine for children but may be too cramped for grown adults. The additional inside storage is this sort of cab’s key benefit.
2. Bed
One of a truck’s most crucial components is what distinguishes it from other automobiles. You can utilize the open cargo bed to carry out large tasks, such as moving heavy appliance items.
Using an SUV or a minivan won’t be possible to complete these chores. The open bed has the drawback of leaving cargo exposed to weather or theft.
Full-sized pickups typically come with a bed length of 8 feet, unlike trucks with extended cabs. The bed of a crew cab truck with four doors is five feet long. The bed size for tiny pickups typically ranges from 5 to 6 feet.
3. Access
Another important factor to take into account when buying a vehicle is access. It might be challenging for folks to climb into trucks with tall cabins. Installing a running board on your 4X4 truck will make it easier for passengers to get in and out.
It can be difficult to load and unload objects from full-sized pickup beds due to the high side rails. The inbuilt steps in the bumper or foldable steps on the tailgate simplify entry for shorter drivers and passengers.
Checking to see if the seat matches your standards and expectations is equally crucial. You should search for trucks with sufficient space for your passengers and your stuff. The quantity of knee, head, and legroom in each seated position is another crucial factor to consider.
4. Towing
A few different aspects of towing determine a truck’s towing capability. Engine output, wheelbase, the size of the cab and bed, and whether or not the truck has a factory towing package are all important.
The towing capacities of trucks can vary significantly. A standard pickup truck with the correct accessories can haul more than 12,000 pounds without risk. However, others have a lower capacity and may only be able to haul 5,500 pounds.
However, a typical compact pickup truck can pull anything from 3,000 to 7,000 pounds. Most full-sized 1,500-class trucks can tow loads between 5,000 and 10,000 pounds. Heavy-duty pickup trucks can tow up to 31,000 pounds.
5. Axle Ratio
The amount of torque the truck’s rear wheels receive is the subject of this discussion. The ratio of 3.5:1 means that the transmission’s main drive shaft rotates three and a half times for every rear wheel rotation. A higher number is ideal for towing and hauling capacities, while a lower number promotes fuel economy.
If you’re doing a lot of towing, it’s advised that you choose a number in the middle of the range. Only those who drive frequently and haul huge items should have a higher ratio.
6. Fuel Economy
Modern compact pickups frequently include a big four-cylinder engine. The majority features an optional V6 that has more power but operates quietly and smoothly.
The standard V6 full-sized trucks provide a fantastic mix of power and fuel efficiency. Some new V8 engines have cylinder deactivation features that enable them to run on fewer cylinders and consume less gasoline.
Top FAQs About Best Gas Mileage 4 Wheel Drive Trucks
Does A 4 Wheel Drive Use More Gas?
Since a 4-wheel drive has more weight and drivetrain parts than a 2-wheel drive of the same make and model, it will consume more gas. A fourth differential, transfer case, and driveshaft are the extra parts found in 4-wheel drives.
These parts increase the weight, friction, and rotational mass, which negatively impacts fuel efficiency.
Do Any Trucks Get 30 MPG?
The Ram 1500 with the torque engine and the Ford Maverick are two pickup trucks that can achieve 30 mpg. Of course, if you’d prefer something a little smaller, the Ford Ranger with the 2.3 Liter EcoBoost is also an option.
On the other hand, these pickup vehicles can now tow a trailer up to 7,500 pounds. Furthermore, they can achieve up to 30 mpg when you are commuting.
Is 15 MPG Good For A Truck?
15 miles per gallon used to be considered an acceptable mileage for trucks. However, 15 mpg would be considered less than it should be due to recent improvements to vehicles. The same type of truck that used to get 15 mpg today should have no trouble reaching above 20 mpg.
Is AWD or 4×4 Better?
AWD reduces some of the drama associated with driving on snow and ice. When dealing with severe snow and ice, 4WD is the way to go. Without a doubt, 4WD is superior if you also want to venture off the beaten path into the wilderness. Additionally, 4WD vehicles often have a far higher towing capacity than AWD vehicles.
Is Less Horsepower Fuel Efficient?
An important aspect of a vehicle’s fuel usage is horsepower. In general, more power results in more fuel being consumed. This means that by selecting a car with less horsepower than you require, you may save money on fuel and lessen your influence on the environment.
What Engine Is More Fuel Efficient?
Surveyors researched to compare the fuel efficiency of gas and diesel engines. On the interstate and in the city, diesel engines were 24% and 29% more efficient, respectively. Nevertheless, you might need to determine the benefit of diesel for your particular driving requirements.
Final Thoughts
When it comes to 4×4 trucks, fuel efficiency is an important consideration. There are a variety of factors that contribute to a truck’s fuel efficiency, including engine size, transmission, and aerodynamics.
This article lists the most fuel-efficient 4×4 trucks of all time in the American market. If you’re in the market for a new truck, be sure to check out these models.
