Pickup trucks are often seen as gas-guzzlers, but the landscape is changing. As fuel efficiency becomes a greater concern for drivers, manufacturers are stepping up to deliver 4×4 and AWD trucks that offer impressive MPG without sacrificing capability. If you’re looking for the best of both worlds – off-road prowess and fewer trips to the gas station – you’re in the right place.
This guide, brought to you by the automotive experts at cardiagnosticnearme.com, dives into the top 10 most fuel-efficient 4×4 and AWD trucks of 2024. We’ve consulted the official EPA ratings to bring you a data-driven list that will help you make an informed decision. From traditional gasoline engines to innovative hybrids and all-electric powertrains, the options for a fuel-sipping 4×4 truck are more diverse than ever.
Let’s explore the trucks that are leading the charge in fuel economy for 2024, starting with number 10 and working our way to the most fuel-efficient option.
10. Ford Ranger 4×4 (22 MPG Combined)
2024 Ford Ranger Lariat on display
The redesigned 2024 Ford Ranger 4×4 holds the tenth spot on our list, achieving a combined EPA rating of 22 MPG. This completely new Ranger boasts increased payload capacity, a more spacious cab, and updated technology compared to its predecessor. Despite these enhancements, it maintains the same fuel economy, proving that improvements don’t always come at the expense of efficiency.
Under the hood, the Ranger utilizes a 2.3L turbocharged four-cylinder engine paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. This combination delivers 270 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque, enabling a towing capacity of up to 7,500 pounds and a payload of 1,805 pounds when properly equipped with 4WD. The 2024 Ford Ranger 4WD achieves an EPA estimated fuel economy of 20 MPG in the city and 24 MPG on the highway, resulting in the combined 22 MPG rating. The starting price for a crew cab XL model is $36,365, excluding destination and handling fees.
9. Ford F-150 PowerBoost Hybrid 4×4 (23 MPG Combined)
Ford F-150 Hybrid towing a trailer
Ford’s expertise in hybrid technology extends to their popular F-150 pickup with the PowerBoost Hybrid 4×4. This model secures the ninth position with a combined 23 MPG. Unlike some hybrids that prioritize fuel savings over power, the F-150 PowerBoost enhances performance. It delivers 430 horsepower, 30 more than the non-hybrid 3.5L EcoBoost engine, and a substantial 570 lb-ft of torque, thanks to the electric motor’s boost of 70 lb-ft.
For the 2024 model year, the PowerBoost hybrid V6 powertrain is available across all F-150 trim levels, from XL to Limited, offering broader accessibility. The 4×4 PowerBoost boasts a towing capacity of up to 12,700 pounds and a payload capacity of 1,830 pounds, placing it competitively among full-size trucks in terms of work capability. The EPA estimates the Ford F-150 PowerBoost Hybrid 4×4 to achieve 23 MPG in combined driving conditions, making it a strong contender for fuel-conscious truck buyers.
8. Hyundai Santa Cruz AWD (23 MPG Combined)
Hyundai Santa Cruz compact pickup truck parked outdoors
The Hyundai Santa Cruz AWD shares the eighth spot with 23 MPG combined fuel economy and brings a unique approach to the pickup truck segment. Based on the Hyundai Tucson crossover, the Santa Cruz features a unibody design, blurring the lines between SUV and truck. This compact pickup offers car-like handling and efficiency with the added utility of a truck bed.
Hyundai equips the Santa Cruz with two 2.5L engine options: a naturally aspirated (NA) version producing 191 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque, and a turbocharged variant delivering 281 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and offer available AWD. Interestingly, both powertrains achieve nearly identical fuel economy: 23 MPG combined for the NA engine (21 city/25 highway) and 22 MPG combined for the turbo (19 city/27 highway). The turbocharged 2.5L engine increases towing capacity to 5,000 pounds compared to the NA engine’s 3,500 pounds, while payload capacities are 1,609 pounds and 1,753 pounds, respectively. The Hyundai Santa Cruz starts at an MSRP of $28,400 for the SE trim NA model and $38,460 for the Night trim 2.5T.
7. Chevrolet Silverado/GMC Sierra 1500 Duramax Diesel 4×4 (24 MPG Combined)
Chevrolet Silverado Diesel fuel efficient on road
The Chevrolet Silverado 1500 4×4 and its GMC Sierra twin, equipped with the Duramax 3.0L I6 diesel engine, claim the seventh position with a combined 24 MPG. These full-size trucks demonstrate that diesel power can still be a fuel-efficient choice. The upgraded Duramax turbodiesel engine for 2023 produces 305 horsepower and a robust 495 lb-ft of torque, available from just 1,500 rpm, ensuring strong low-end power.
This diesel powertrain allows the 4×4 Duramax models to tow up to 13,000 pounds and handle a maximum payload of 2,210 pounds when properly configured. The EPA rates the diesel 2024 Chevy Silverado 1500 at 22 MPG city, 27 MPG highway, and 24 MPG combined. This demonstrates that the increased power of the updated engine did not compromise its impressive fuel economy.
6. Toyota Tacoma i-Force Max Hybrid (24 MPG Combined)
2024 Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro off-road
Toyota’s all-new Tacoma i-Force Max Hybrid secures the sixth spot on our list, also achieving 24 MPG combined. This legendary mid-size truck has been completely redesigned with a new chassis and modern powertrains. Every 2024 Tacoma features a 2.4L turbocharged four-cylinder engine, but i-Force MAX models add Toyota’s latest hybrid system for enhanced power and efficiency.
The Tacoma i-Force Max Hybrid, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, delivers 326 horsepower and an impressive 465 lb-ft of torque. The hybrid system contributes to an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 23 MPG city and 24 MPG highway. Despite its fuel efficiency, the hybrid Tacoma remains capable, offering a towing capacity of up to 6,000 pounds and a maximum payload of 1,610 pounds. The starting price for the 2024 Tacoma Hybrid is the Sport trim, from $46,300.
5. Ford Maverick 2.0T AWD (25 MPG Combined)
Ford Maverick compact truck towing small trailer
The Ford Maverick 2.0T AWD takes the fifth spot and earns the title of most fuel-efficient gasoline-powered truck on our list, boasting 25 MPG combined. This compact pickup utilizes a turbocharged 2.0L four-cylinder engine for increased power and torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission for optimal performance and efficiency.
The engine produces 250 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque, impressive figures for a truck in this size class. This power enables the Maverick to tow up to 4,000 pounds with the Max Tow Package and carry a payload of 1,500 pounds, a payload capacity competitive with some full-size trucks. The EPA estimates fuel economy at 22 MPG city and 29 MPG highway. It’s important to note that the AWD Maverick is not available with the hybrid powertrain, which achieves an even more impressive 37 MPG overall (for the 2022 model year). The 2024 Ford Maverick XL with a 2.0L engine and AWD starts at $26,140.
4. GMC Hummer EV (53 MPGe)
GMC Hummer EV electric truck front view
Entering the electric truck segment, the GMC Hummer EV takes the fourth position with an EPA rating of 53 MPGe. Due to its heavy weight (over 8,500 pounds GVWR), official EPA numbers are not mandatory, but GMC has chosen to publish them. Despite weighing over 9,000 pounds empty, the Hummer EV pickup achieves this notable MPGe and offers a range of 314 miles. While its range is on the lower end for electric trucks, it still provides a substantial driving distance.
The Hummer EV delivers a massive 1,000 horsepower and can still handle truck duties with a towing capacity of 7,500 pounds and a payload capacity of 1,300 pounds, despite its weight. Starting at $110,295, the Hummer EV offers both impressive electric performance and truck capability, albeit at a premium price point.
3. Chevrolet Silverado EV (67 MPGe)
2024 Chevrolet Silverado EV RST trim
The Chevrolet Silverado EV secures the third spot with an EPA rating of 67 MPGe, further highlighting the potential of electric trucks for fuel efficiency. GM claims that the high-capacity 4WT model will offer a remarkable 450 miles of range with its standard battery pack, exceeding any other electric pickup currently available in terms of standard range. The current longest-range model, the 3WT-spec truck, boasts a range of 393 miles.
Beyond range, the electric Silverado delivers impressive performance, producing 754 horsepower and 785 lb-ft of torque in Wide Open Watts launch mode, enabling it to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.5 seconds. It also maintains truck functionality with a towing capacity of up to 10,000 pounds. The Silverado EV also incorporates a unique mid-gate feature, reminiscent of the classic Avalanche, which expands the cargo area into the rear seats for added versatility. Pricing for the 2024 Silverado EV starts at $74,800.
2. Ford F-150 Lightning 4WD Extended Range (70 MPGe)
Ford F-150 Lightning electric truck on trail
The Ford F-150 Lightning 4WD Extended Range takes the second position with an EPA rating of 70 MPGe, solidifying Ford’s commitment to electric truck technology and fuel efficiency. The extended-range Lightning, available in XLT and higher trims, produces 580 horsepower, while the standard-range model offers 452 horsepower. Both configurations deliver a massive 775 lb-ft of torque.
The EPA estimates the standard-range Lightning at 68 MPGe with a 230-mile range and a 7,700-pound towing capacity (with the Max Tow Package). Extended-range models achieve 70 MPGe and can travel up to 320 miles on a single charge, with a towing capacity of up to 10,000 pounds with the Max Tow Package. The starting price for the F-150 Lightning Pro trim (standard range only) is $49,995, making it a more accessible entry point into the electric truck market.
1. Rivian R1T Dual Max (84 MPGe)
Rivian R1T electric pickup truck parked outdoors
Claiming the top spot as the most fuel-efficient 4×4 truck is the Rivian R1T Dual Max, with an impressive EPA rating of 84 MPGe. The Rivian R1T was the first all-electric pickup to reach the US market and stands out as a leader in innovation and efficiency.
In its Dual Max configuration, the R1T offers an estimated 410-mile range. The quad-motor Quad Max variant pushes performance even further with 1,025 horsepower and a staggering 1,198 lb-ft of torque, leading the list in both power and torque figures. The Rivian R1T also delivers on truck capabilities, with a payload capacity of 1,760 pounds and a towing capacity of 11,000 pounds. The EPA rating for the Rivian R1T is 91 MPGe city, 77 MPGe highway, and 84 MPGe combined. The 2024 Rivian R1T Dual Standard, with dual motors, AWD, and a 270-mile battery pack, starts at $69,000. The Dual Max Adventure, offering over 400 miles of range, starts at $83,000.
Conclusion: Fuel Efficiency and 4×4 Capability Can Coexist
As you can see, the quest for the best fuel mileage in a 4×4 truck no longer means sacrificing capability or performance. The 2024 market offers a range of choices, from efficient gasoline engines and powerful hybrids to groundbreaking all-electric models. Whether you prioritize ultimate MPG, towing capacity, or off-road adventure, there’s a fuel-efficient 4×4 truck on this list to meet your needs. Visit cardiagnosticnearme.com for more automotive insights and to stay updated on the latest truck reviews and comparisons.
