To get the best gas mileage in a 4x4 truck, you should look at trucks with these features:
* Smaller Engine: A 4-cylinder engine or a fuel-efficient V6 will generally provide better gas mileage than a V8. However, engine power and towing capacity may be limited.
* Lightweight Design: Lighter trucks use less fuel to move.
* Automatic Stop/Start Technology: This can improve fuel efficiency in stop-and-go traffic.
* Aerodynamic Design: Trucks with more aerodynamic designs can achieve better gas mileage.
* Hybrid Powertrain (if available): Hybrid versions of trucks often offer significantly improved fuel economy compared to their gasoline counterparts, though they are still relatively rare.
Models that frequently appear on "best gas mileage" lists for 4x4 trucks (though mileage will vary depending on trim and options):
* Smaller Trucks: Models like the Ford Maverick (especially the hybrid), Hyundai Santa Cruz, and Honda Ridgeline often offer better fuel economy than full-size trucks due to their smaller size and engines. The Ridgeline is only available with V6.
* Full-Size Trucks with smaller engines and fuel-saving technologies: Some full-size truck manufacturers offer fuel-efficient engine options and technologies that can improve gas mileage compared to their higher-powered counterparts. However, expect substantially lower mileage than smaller trucks. Check the EPA estimates for the specific trims of interest. Look for models that offer 4-cylinder or smaller V6 engines paired with fuel-saving features.
Important Note: Always check the EPA's official fuel economy estimates for the specific year, model, trim level, and engine of the truck you are considering. Real-world mileage will always vary depending on your driving habits and conditions.
