What Are the Most Efficient Diesel Trucks?

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Diesel engines produce more energy per gallon of fuel than gasoline, but diesel trucks tend to favor towing prowess and torque over maximizing the MPG rating. They provide low-end torque to move heavy loads from rest with absolute precision. That’s why diesel trucks are often used as construction vehicles. So, how do you find a powerful truck for towing without paying too much for fuel?  Here are the most efficient diesel trucks money can buy:

Most Efficient Diesel Trucks 

1. Chevrolet Silverado 1500 

With a combined 23 to 33 MPG rating and a competitive max towing capacity, the Silverado 1500 can’t be beat. The diesel option is fitted with the Duramax 3.0L Turbo-Diesel and a 10-speed automatic transmission.

2. GMC Sierra 1500

Nearly tied with the Silverado 1500, the Sierra gets between 23 and 30 combined MPG. It also uses the 3.0L Duramax Turbo-Diesel engine and a 10-speed automatic transmission, making it a close second to the Silverado.

3. RAM 1500 EcoDiesel 

Ranging from 21 to 29 MPG, the latest light-duty RAM is a fuel-efficient workhorse. It boasts the longest 4x4 driving range in its class and can travel up to 950 miles on a single tank. It is also B20 biodiesel compatible, giving you more options at the pump.

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4. RAM 2500

Moving up to the heavy-duty class, the heavy-duty RAM gets 19 to 24 MPG. It runs on the turbocharged 6.7-liter Cummins diesel engine but can’t compete with the F-250’s towing capacity. It gets an impressive 410 max horsepower and 850 lb.-ft. of torque, and it can tow up to 19,990 lbs.

5. Ford F-250 Super Duty 

On par with the RAM 2500, the F-250 gets 15 to 20 MPG, according to testing from Car and Driver. It features the company’s signature Powerstroke V-8 diesel engine, netting up to 500 horsepower and 1,200 pound-feet of torque, and the upgraded versions can tow up to 40,000 lbs. to help you make fewer trips. 

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Additional Efficiency Considerations: 

The larger the truck, the more it can tow, but larger engines require more fuel per mile. Upgrading to a heavy-duty option, 4WD or four doors will consume more fuel per mile. Older, used vehicles gradually lose their efficiency. Balance your budget and towing needs against the MPG rating to find your sweet spot. 

Diesel Truck Fuel Efficiency

The average MPG rating estimates real-world applications. Your truck’s actual efficiency rating depends on how you drive and how well you maintain the engine. A light decrease in efficiency can cost you thousands of dollars a year in extra fuel costs as the problem worsens. Diesel vehicles must maintain precise fuel and air pressure ratios to convert the mixture into mechanical energy.

Blockages, leaks and excess friction slow the flow of air and fuel, limiting access to the combustion chamber. Internal sensors monitor fuel and air PSI levels according to specifications. Check the pressure at various RPMs to see how the engine is performing. 

If pressure or efficiency drops, inspect the fuel system, including the fuel pump and injectors where the fuel is pressurized before injection. Replace the fuel pump after 100,000 miles or sooner, and replace the fuel filters to restore the flow. Clean/replace the air filter and inspect the turbocharger for damage to bring in fresh air. The engine must also dispose of and filter out particulate matter from the exhaust before restarting the cycle. Replace damaged exhaust parts to avoid backing up the engine.

Diesel engines last up to five times longer than gasoline engines but need frequent maintenance, including new system parts, to get there. Shop our diesel parts supply to stock up on everything your truck needs to maximize its MPG rating for years to come.

Maintaining your fuel consumption is a labor of love. Use these tips and stats to finish the job using as little fuel as possible.