How to Compare Gas Mileage in Pickups

Pickup trucks can provide all of the payload, towing capacity and power drivers need, but when it comes to fuel economy, gas mileage can vary depending on truck size, engine, transmission and other factors. You can compare trucks to establish best fuel economy in each class.

Truck Segment

Automotive manufacturers build two segments of trucks: full-size models, including the Ford F-150, Toyota Tundra and Dodge Ram 1500; and compact models, including the Ford Ranger, Toyota Tacoma and Dodge Dakota. Compare trucks within the same segment to determine gas mileage.

Effects

Compare 4x4 and 4x2 trucks with respective similar models. Narrow your search to similar-sized engines and transmission choices, such as manual or automatic.

Fuel Economy

Visit the Fuel Economy website and click on "Find A Car" in the navigation bar (see References). In the pull-down menu, select "Compare Side-by-Side" followed by "Select Model Year." Choose the brand of truck and then select the model you want to compare. Click on "Compare side-by-side" next to the picture of the truck to select another truck to compare it to. Repeat this process two times to review up to four models side-by-side. Take note of city, highway and combined fuel economy to compare models.

References

• U.S. News: Best Compact Pickup Trucks
• U.S. News: Best Full Size Pickup Trucks
• Fuel Economy: Compare Side-By-Side