Gas prices don’t have to be your truck’s biggest problem. Whether you’re hauling gear across Waukesha County or doing daily commutes through town, finding a pickup that won’t drain your wallet at the pump is 100% doable — and Boucher Buick GMC Waukesha has the inventory to prove it. The most economical truck options on the market right now are genuinely impressive, and a few of them might surprise you. Here’s a look at five trucks worth your attention if fuel economy is near the top of your list.
When it comes to the best pickup truck for gas mileage, midsize trucks tend to lead the charge — but some full-size options have seriously closed the gap. The short answer is that the GMC Canyon, Chevy Colorado, and Ram 1500 EcoDiesel consistently rank at the top.
Here’s a closer look at five trucks that stand out for fuel efficiency in 2026. Each one balances MPG with real-world utility — because nobody wants a fuel-sipper that can’t actually do truck things.
The Canyon punches well above its weight class. The standard 2.7L turbocharged four-cylinder produces 310 horsepower and, depending on configuration, can return up to 19 MPG city / 23 MPG highway. That’s strong midsize territory. If you’re not towing heavy and want a truck that’s easy to park and easy on the tank, the Canyon deserves a serious look. It also comes with a polished interior and modern tech that genuinely compete with those of larger trucks. For Waukesha drivers who want a capable daily driver without the full-size fuel hit, this one’s a natural fit.
The Chevy Colorado shares its platform with the Canyon but brings its own character. The 2.7L turbocharged engine (also available in higher-output trims) maintains competitive efficiency while delivering enough grunt for towing and weekend adventures. Expect up to 22 MPG city / 29 MPG highway in base trims. It’s one of the best gas mileage figures in a truck without sacrificing the versatility that makes a truck worth owning. The Colorado also has strong resale value and a wide range of trim levels to match different budgets.
The Sierra 1500 is where full-size capability meets genuinely respectable fuel economy. Equipped with the 2.7L turbo four-cylinder, it can achieve up to 17 MPG city / 17 MPG highway. That might not sound flashy next to a midsize, but for a truck that tows up to 9,500 lbs and carries a full crew in comfort, it’s a legitimate achievement. The Sierra also offers a diesel option (3.0L Duramax inline-six) that delivers 23 city / 30 highway MPG — making it one of the most efficient full-size pickups available. For Waukesha drivers who need a real workhorse but want to keep fuel bills in check, the Sierra 1500 is a smart call.
Ram’s full-size flagship earns its place on any truck fuel efficiency list. The mild-hybrid eTorque system (available on both the 3.6L V6 and 5.7L HEMI V8) gives the Ram 1500 a meaningful edge in real-world efficiency. The V6 eTorque returns up to 20 city / 26 highway. The interior is also class-leading in terms of refinement, which matters when you’re spending a lot of time behind the wheel on Wisconsin roads.
The Tacoma has earned its reputation as one of the most dependable midsize trucks on the road. With the standard 2.4L turbocharged four-cylinder (new for the refreshed generation), efficiency is respectable — around 19 city / 24 highway depending on drivetrain. The Tacoma won’t win a straight MPG race against the Canyon or Colorado. Still, its long-term reliability and lower maintenance costs often make it one of the most cost-efficient trucks to own over time. For buyers considering the total cost of ownership and consistent performance over the long haul, it’s a worthy addition to this list.
Yes, in most cases. Diesel engines are more thermally efficient and typically deliver 20–30% better fuel economy than comparable gas engines, especially on the highway and under load.
It’s one of the better options. The Canyon’s turbocharged engine, comfortable ride, and strong MPG ratings make it well-suited for Wisconsin commutes and weekend hauls without the fuel cost of a larger truck.
Quite a bit. Aggressive acceleration, high speeds, and frequent short trips can drop real-world MPG by 20–30% compared to steady highway driving. Smooth driving and regular maintenance help you stay closer to the EPA estimate.
Yes — towing can reduce fuel economy by 20–40% depending on load weight, trailer aerodynamics, and terrain. Choosing a diesel or turbocharged engine helps offset some of that loss compared to a naturally aspirated V8.
Yes. Boucher Buick GMC Waukesha carries current GMC Canyon and Sierra 1500 inventory with multiple powertrain options. Check the dealership’s website for real-time inventory or stop in to speak with a team member.
