Used Truck Gas Mileage Compared (2026): MPG & Fuel Cost
Among popular used pickups, the 2020 Ford F-150 leads on fuel economy at 24 mpg combined, while the 2020 Toyota Tundra is thirstiest at 15 mpg (about $4,150 a year). Full ranking on EPA data:
| # | Vehicle | Combined MPG | City / Hwy | Est. annual fuel cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 2020 Ford F-150 | 24 | 21 / 28 | $3,250 |
| 2 | 2020 Ford Ranger | 23 | 21 / 26 | $2,700 |
| 3 | 2020 Chevrolet Colorado | 22 | 19 / 27 | $3,117 |
| 4 | 2020 Ram 1500 | 21 | 18 / 26 | $3,450 |
| 5 | 2020 Toyota Tacoma | 21 | 20 / 24 | $2,950 |
| 6 | 2020 Toyota Tundra | 15 | 13 / 18 | $4,150 |
Engine choice is everything on a truck
Fuel economy varies more by engine and drivetrain within a single truck than between models. When you find a used truck you like, verify the exact engine and 2WD/4WD configuration — and run the VIN for open recalls, which are common on high-volume pickups.
Methodology & sources
Figures are official EPA estimates from fueleconomy.gov: combined MPG (or MPGe for electric), estimated annual fuel cost (EPA's 15,000-mile/year assumption at recent national fuel prices), and EPA driving range for EVs. Where a model offers several drivetrains we show the model average, so treat these as at-a-glance comparisons, not a substitute for the exact trim's window sticker. Data snapshot July 2026. Free to cite with a link to this page.
Fuel economy is only half of ownership cost. Before you buy, also check the car's recall record and run its VIN with Carchieve for open recalls, owner complaints and safety ratings.
Check the exact car before you buy
These are model averages. The car in the driveway has its own history — run its 17-character VIN through Carchieve for open recalls, complaint patterns and safety ratings, then use our 24-point used car buying checklist.
Frequently asked questions
Which used pickup gets the best gas mileage?
Among popular used pickups, the 2020 Ford F-150 leads at 24 mpg combined. Mid-size trucks generally beat full-size, and engine choice matters a lot within a model.
How much does a thirsty truck cost to fuel?
A lot: the 2020 Toyota Tundra runs about $4,150 a year in fuel at 15,000 miles, versus $3,250 for the most efficient here — a difference that adds up fast over years of ownership.
Do diesel or hybrid pickups save money used?
They can cut fuel use meaningfully, but diesels add maintenance complexity and emissions-system repair risk. On any used truck, check the recall and complaint history for the drivetrain before buying.
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