The method used to estimate pickup truck fuel economy ratings changed in 2008, but it still doesn't reflect the actual mileage you'll get when you drive your truck -- and never will, since vehicles aren't tested in the real world and because everyone's driving habits differ. But comparing ratings within a class gives you a good idea which vehicles in that category performed best. With the cost of gas where it is, fuel economy is an important feature to consider when it's time to buy a pickup truck.
1. 2010 Chevy Colorado Trucks
Colorado's fuel economy ratings vary depending on the model you choose, with the highest in the 18 city / 25 highway range and the lowest at 15 city / 20 highway.
2. 2010 Chevy Silverado Trucks
© Chevrolet
Fuel economy ratings for the 2010 Chevy Silverado (not hybrid) include stats for the company's XFE truck, a Silverado that's been enhanced to get slightly better highway fuel mileage.
3. 2010 Chevy Silverado Hybrid Trucks
The stats are pretty straightforward -- one spec for 2WD Silverado hybrids and other for 4WD trucks. All Silverado hybrids are flex fuel compatible.
4. 2010 Dodge Dakota Trucks
The Dakota lineup doesn't include a 4-cylinder truck, so you won't see it ranked among the top pickup fuel economy estimates. It's 4-speed automatic limits the 6-cylinder truck's ability to achieve high ratings.5. 2010 Dodge Ram 1500 Trucks
© Dodge
Fuel economy ratings for Dodge Ram trucks are somewhat lower than you'll find when you check the ratings of its competition. The Hemi equipped Ram figures in to stats at 13 city / 18 highway.
6. 2010 Ford F-150 Trucks
Photo of 2010 F-150 Harley-Davidson Truck @copy; Ford Motor Co.
Ford and Harley-Davidson introduce their 14th collaboration, this black and red truck with retractable running boards and a sport suspension. The truck doesn't look like your typical F-150, but the differences don't affect gas mileage. The estimates for this year's lineup are fairly consistent with past models, but with a bump up in mileage expected for 6 cylinder trucks equipped with a 6-speed automatic.
7. 2010 Ford Explorer Sport Trac
It's a mid-size truck, but the Sport Trac's fuel mileage estimates are closer to (and sometimes lower than) the stats you'll see when you look at full-size vehicles. Ford's new EcoBoost engine will hopefully improve Sport Trac's fuel economy.8. 2010 Ford Ranger Trucks
© Ford Motor Co.
Ranger retains its title as the pickup truck with best fuel economy ratings. That title belongs to 2.3 liter 4-cylinder 2WD trucks equipped with a 5-speed manual transmission. As you'd expect, increase engine size and fuel economy ratings go down.
9. 2010 GMC Canyon Trucks
The GMC Canyon shares identical fuel economy estimates with its cousin, the Chevy Colorado pickup truck.
10. 2010 GMC Sierra Trucks
Sierra's fuel economy ratings match those of the Chevy Silverado. This document covers the non-hybrid Sierras available for the 2010 model year.
