Pickup trucks are generally not known for their fuel economy, but the efficiency of some midsize trucks in 2021 may surprise you. There are several diesel options on the market that combine impressive power and torque figures with better fuel economy than their gas-powered counterparts.
Here are the most efficient mid-size trucks for 2021, based on EPA ratings.
6. 2020 Nissan Frontier 2WD
EPA city / highway / combined fuel consumption: 18/24/20 mpg
The Nissan NSANY, -4.67% Frontier is a good truck if you’re looking for an affordable pickup that gets the job done, but its value proposition is weighed down by its below-average efficiency. As with any other truck, there is a fuel economy penalty if you choose to upgrade to all-wheel drive.
See: Prepare to spend more on gas this year
5. 2021 Honda Ridgeline
EPA city / highway / combined fuel consumption: 18/24/21 mpg
The Honda HMC, -2.07% Ridgeline is getting a pretty significant update during the cycle for 2021, giving it a rugged new look and an updated infotainment system. The car-like unibody construction of the Ridgeline makes it a smooth and comfortable family vehicle. However, the 2021 is no longer available as a two-wheel drive truck, so fuel consumption is lower.
4. 2021 Toyota Tacoma 2WD
EPA city / highway / combined fuel consumption: 19/24/21 mpg
The Base Inline-Four and the optional under-hood V6 on the Toyota Tacoma deliver the same combined fuel economy of 21 mpg, according to the EPA. The four-cylinder is a bit more efficient in city traffic (20 City / 23 Highway), while the more powerful V6 is a bit more efficient on the Autobahn (19 City / 21 Highway).
See also: These electric vehicles are coming soon – here are the prices, how far they will go and how much they will tow
3rd 2021 Ford Ranger 2WD
EPA city / highway / combined fuel consumption: 21/26/23 mpg
The most efficient mid-range pickup without diesel is the 2WD variant of the Ford F, -1.35% Ranger. Each Ranger is equipped with the same in-line EcoBoost turbocharged four-engine. The Ranger has a premium payload and can pull up to 7,500 pounds. For an efficient truck that is not afraid of a little work, the Ranger is a well-rounded workhorse.
2. 2021 GMC Canyon 2WD Duramax
EPA city / highway / combined fuel consumption: 20/30/23 mpg
The GMC Canyon is mechanically identical to the next truck on this list, so it’s not surprising that the fuel economy figures are the same. The Canyon is available with the impressive Duramax turbodiesel, which offers great efficiency on the highway.
2nd 2021 Chevrolet Colorado 2WD Duramax
EPA city / highway / combined fuel consumption: 20/30/23 mpg
The Chevrolet Colorado has the best highway fuel economy in its class when equipped with two-wheel drive and turbo diesel engine. This engine provides ample torque and towing capacity of up to 7,700 pounds.
More: Here is an overview of mid-size trucks in 2021
1. 2021 Jeep Gladiator EcoDiesel
EPA city / highway / combined fuel consumption: 22/28/24 mpg
The economical king of mid-size pickups is also one of the best off-roaders. The 2021 Jeep Gladiator EcoDiesel not only offers the best mileage in its class, but is also equipped with all-wheel drive and a four-door cabin as standard. The diesel V6 engine delivers 442 lb-ft of torque but comes with a $ 6,000 premium.
This story originally ran on KBB.com.
