The older the classic truck, the less likely we are to associate it with good fuel mileage. As for miles per gallon, classic pickups from the 1990s and early 2000s weren’t exactly known for their frugality, offering excellent fuel economy and affordable maintenance costs. But contrary to common belief, not all older trucks are gas guzzlers.

Regarding used truck buyers, nothing is more crucial than fuel efficiency. Buy a truck with great MPG and save thousands over time as fuel prices rise. From a reliable workhorse to a daily driver and even an adventure-ready pickup, an older fuel-efficient truck gives you both power and affordability. They are also a sound investment because used trucks typically have lower prices and insurance costs.

Here are a few of them from the 2010s. What 2010s Model Trucks Offer The Best Fuel Economy? The best fuel-efficient pickup trucks are from a small pickup that offers an outstanding MPG to a full-size truck balancing that balances.

Here are some of the best secondhand high-MPG trucks that still hold value today.

1990s Fuel-Efficient Trucks

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#1. 1995 Ford Ranger

Engine: 2.3L 4-cylinder, 24 MPG combined

The Ford Ranger is an ideal starter compact pickup truck with a great value for its price.The Ranger is powered by a 2.3L 4-cylinder engine with 100 horsepower and 133 lb-ft of torque under most models. This engine is rated at 24 MPG combined with a 5-speed manual transmission or a 3-speed automatic, making it an excellent option for everyday driving. A lightweight structure gives the Ranger good fuel economy, while an aerodynamic shape and fine-tuned engine calibration help.

Regarding reliability and durability, the Ford Ranger has an excellent reputation. Given the proper maintenance, many Rangers have been reported to travel over 200,000 miles without too much hassle. Easy to Repair and Maintain As for its simplicity in design and sturdiness in construction, the truck is also straightforward to repair and maintain.

A Ford Ranger in decent shape will sell for between $2,500 and $4,000 on the used market, depending on mileage and local areas. The Ford Ranger is a good pick for someone looking for a budget-friendly work truck or daily driver.

#2. 1998 Toyota Tacoma

Engine: 2.4L 4-cylinder, 25 MPG combined

The Toyota Tacoma is a small pickup truck that has aged like a fine wine, providing the best compromise between economy and muscle. It is powered by a 2.4L 4-cylinder cranking out 142 hp and 160 lb-ft of torque while reaching an impressive 25 MPG combined. With this exceptional combination of power and efficiency, it’s no wonder the Tacoma has been a truck fan favorite.

That leads us to the first of many reasons that keep the Toyota Tacoma afloat as a choice amongst used-truck shoppers exceptional fuel efficiency and resale value. Assuming proper service, many Tacomas have seen over 300,000 miles with few big problems. Moreover, Tacoma has always been known to be reliable and durable, retaining its value well over the years. It is purchased for buyers looking for an everyday driver or reliable work truck.

With its ruggedness, versatility, and off-road capability, it’s no wonder the Toyota Tacoma continues to be favored over a quarter of a century after it was new. The Tacoma has been a reliable, capable partner for everything from hauling stones to towing trailers or climbing at work. Toyota Tacoma Bulletproof reputation, excellent fuel economy, strong resale. Slow, lackluster ride, used truck shoppers’ choice qualification history to establish a place at the top of the consideration list for so many used truck buyers, the Toyota Tacoma had to be good.

#3. 1997 Chevrolet S-10

Engine: 2.2L 4-cylinder, 23 MPG combined

Chevrolet S-10 is a compact pickup that combines affordability with reliability and good gas mileage. Our example features a 2.2L 4-cylinder that produces 118 hp and 130 lb-ft of torque while returning an excellent 23 MPG combined. The information here makes it an excellent vehicle to have been put in service in the mine for work or play.

Low running costs also are an advantage of the Chevrolet S-10. The S-10 is gentle on the budget with a fuel-efficient engine and compact size. Moreover, its simplicity and sturdiness make it a reliable option for buyers who need a no-nonsense workhorse.

The Chevrolet S-10 is also packed with features that make it worthwhile but versatile. It can also stack up light loads into its trim bed, and it has a towing capacity good enough for a trailer and/or little boat. The S–10 features an attractive, sensible cabin with standard amenities such as an air conditioning system and stereo system.

This low-cost, reliable, fuel-efficient pickup truck checks the boxes for anyone looking for a cheap workhorse to add to the driveway, especially the Chevrolet S-10. It’s also a significant investment in a truck that will last for years, whether you’re working, playing, or driving it around.

2000s Fuel-Efficient Trucks

#1. 2005 Toyota Tacoma

Engine: 2.7L 4-cylinder, 23 MPG combined

The Toyota Tacoma is a compact pickup truck, more challenging than ever, with redesigned looks and improved fuel mileage. Tacoma– 235 HP 164 / 183 lb-ft of torque at 3400 rpm 23 MPG combined 2.7L 4-cylinder.This makes it the perfect daily driven car for work or play.

One of the highlights of the Toyota Tacoma is its updated interior, which offers a roomier and more practical cabin. The Tacoma is also in ample size for its class, with a small bed, tow rating, and available four-wheel drive, making it an ideal utility vehicle. The only downside here is Tacoma’s transmission and engine, which some owners have experienced problems with, and the overall reliability can fall under them.

Even with these problems, the resale value and long-term reliability are good on the Toyota Tacoma. Some Tacomas are even able to reach 200,000 miles with little in the way of serious repairs. Plus, the Toyota Tacoma was long known for its rugged and reliable image, so it’s no wonder it held its value well over the years, making it a smart buy for a good used truck.

#2. 2007 Chevrolet Colorado

Engine: 2.9L 4-cylinder, 22 MPG combined

The Chevrolet Colorado is a reliably mid-size pickup truck, offering good all-around value and fuel economy. With Colorado, we get a 2.9L 4-cylinder engine with a combined stellar 22 MPG, perfect for your daily driver. Colorado stacks up closely with competitors in terms of fuel economy, such as Toyota Tacoma and Ford Ranger.

A solid youth model year when buying used, the Chevrolet Colorado offers desirable features such as a crew cab and 4X4. Finally, the Colorado has proven to be a reliable, long-lasting vehicle, making it a smart choice for used truck buyers looking for something dependable. Alternative model years include 2006 and 2008 Colorado, which feature the same capabilities and offerings.

The Chevrolet Colorado is a good choice for buyers looking for a used truck that delivers fuel economy and reliability. To top it all off, the Colorado’s excellent fuel economy, long list of amenities, and uncompromising build quality come at a great price. The Colorado is still a fantastic option for the work truck or daily driver spectrum of buyers.

#3. 2003 Ford Ranger

Engine: 2.3L 4-cylinder, 24 MPG combined

The Ford Ranger is a solid, fuel-sipping, dependable pick for those needing a hardy work truck. The Ranger is a solid option for daily driving, boasting an impressive 24 MPG combined from the 2.3L 4-cylinder engine under the hood. The Ranger’s small footprint and nimble handling make it right-sized for city streets and tight job sites.

On top of that, another strong point for this Ford Ranger is that you already know it will be cheap to maintain and repair. Because the Ranger is such a simple truck built of rugged components, it’s an easy vehicle to maintain and repair, making it a natural choice for those on a budget. The Ranger is also known to be reliable and rugged, with many owners reporting over 200,000 miles on their rigs with little more than oil changes. Purchase a good one for only $1,300 and put a few hundred into it for a usable truck that will last many years.

Ford Ranger is an ideal entry-level work truck that is easy on gas and wallet. It is fuel-efficient, low-maintenance, and built to last. The Ranger is a bargain. It is well worth a look if you are a contractor, landscaper, or small business owner.

2010s Fuel-Efficient Trucks

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#1. 2012 Toyota Tacoma

Engine: 2.7L 4-cylinder, 21 MPG combined

The Toyota Tacoma represents an important step in transitioning to more modern fuel-saving technologies. With a 2.7L 4-cylinder engine under the hood, the Tacoma gets a respectable 21 MPG combined, making it an excellent option if you are looking for a reliable used truck that can save you some money at the gas pump. The Tacoma is designed for extreme wear and tear, perfect for those who use their vehicle for work or play.

Durability and reliability are among the main reasons the Toyota Tacoma is on the list of best-used trucks on the market. With regular maintenance, Tacomas can quickly reach over 200,000 miles. New inserts and upgraded bushings help tame Tacoma’s occasional misbehavior when navigating tight city streets and job sites becomes more effortless.

The Toyota Tacoma also has a range of modern equipment, including a comfortable and practical interior, advanced safety features, and a host of convenience features. From contractors to those needing a rugged used truck, the Toyota Tacoma is a contender.

#2. 2015 Chevrolet Colorado

Engine: 2.5L 4-cylinder, 22 MPG combined

The Chevrolet Colorado is a radically different beast, with aerodynamically sculpted bodies and more efficient engines. Colorado gives good 22 MPG combined performance from its workhorse 2.5L 4-cylinder with 200 hp, so you shouldn’t sacrifice gas savings for a hard-work truck. The Colorado design is very stylish and aerodynamic, which reduces air resistance and improves fuel efficiency.

The tech suite is a key feature distinguishing Chevrolet Colorado from its competitors. Colorado provides a level of sophistication unmatched in its class, with features including a touchscreen infotainment system, rearview camera, and forward collision alert. Combining a solid, robust towing capacity and optional 4×4, the Colorado is a work truck for almost any task.

Also impressive about the Chevrolet is the more comfortable and larger cabin, with nicer materials and more safety features. The Chevrolet is undoubtedly worth a look if you’re in the market for a work truck, whether a contractor, weekend warrior or someone who always needs much of their stuff.

#3. 2017 Honda Ridgeline

Engine: 3.5L V6, 22 MPG combined

Mind-blowing pickup trucks offer a unibody design and incredible fuel economy. A 3.5L V6 motivates the Ridgeline to 22 MPG combined, making it an excellent workhorse if you’re looking for a capable truck that won’t empty your tank. Sporting a revolutionary unibody format, the Ridgeline drives more smoothly and car-like than rival body-on-frame pickups.

The Honda Ridgeline’s main strength is how good it is to drive. The Ridgeline differentiates itself from traditional trucks with its more refined and civilized ride, which makes it ideal for a daily driver. Plus, the Ridgeline’s cabin is spacious, filled with features, and comfortable for passengers. The Ridgeline has many advanced safety features, including Honda Sensing, providing added peace of mind while on the road.

However, for buyers seeking something a little different, the Honda Ridgeline is a unique pickup truck that makes a case for its impressive range of talents, fuel economy, ride comfort, and driving experience. The Ridgeline is an all-in-one pickup truck designed for all types of purposes, from work and play, with stylish looks, good fuel economy, and above-average comfort—not an option to be overlooked.

Key Factors Affecting Fuel Efficiency in Older Trucks

These are core factors that influence the fuel consumption of aging trucks. Engine type and size may be the most significant considerations. In general, smaller engines with fewer cylinders are more economical than larger engines with more cylinders. Engine type also matters since diesels generally provide better fuel economy than gas engines.

For older trucks, fuel efficiency is also influenced by the vehicle’s transmission type. A manual transmission translates into lower fuel consumption in city driving or heavy-load transport than an automatic car. However, automatic transmission usually performs better than manual ones and helps improve highway fuel economy.

True, but you know what else is vehicle weight and aerodynamics. Heavier trucks have extensively low fuel economy, but a car with a sleeker design can cut through the air more efficiently with a smaller air resistance and move with a lower fuel economy.

Most fuel-efficient older trucks will need regular maintenance of various components, like regular oil changes, tire pressure checks, and air filter replacements. In addition, a lot more critical than gasoline mileage is your driving pattern — gentle acceleration, driving as uniformly practical, and no longer idling the engine can also lead to greater gasoline utilization. These key pointers, when taken into consideration and with simple maintenance and driving measures, can help truck owners improve the fuel economy of their truck over 15 years old and reduce operating costs.

Conclusion

All in all, we’ve looked back to present a selection of top-performing older trucks, each offering a unique blend of quality, performance, and fuel efficiency. From the iconic 1997 Chevrolet S-10 to the groundbreaking 2017 Honda Ridgeline, these trucks represented the best of the best in their class.

If looking for the most budget-friendly options, striking a balance between features and affordability 2003 Ford Ranger and 2007 Chevrolet Colorado bring numerous positive attributes, including stellar fuel economy ratings and low maintenance costs. Alternatively, buyers looking for a more modern and techy truck might consider the 2012 Toyota Tacoma or 2015 Chevrolet Colorado.

The truck for you will of course, very much depend on your individual needs and desires. We encourage you to study each model, read reviews, and take your favorites for a test drive before committing to a purchase. With a little due diligence and finding a decent truck, you will discover years of reliable service alongside impressive MPGs.

So, what are you waiting for? Begin your search for the ideal used truck now and experience the freedom and versatility that only a good pickup can offer.

Top Older Trucks with Excellent Gas Mileage (1990s to 2010s)