Decent gas mileage on a truck?

Question

What truck would get the best gas mileage? It's hard to me to afford gas in what I have now (5.7 v8 Trans am), but I want a truck to pull my pop up. I was originally going to get a civic, but now that I am moving and wont be able to use my moms truck to haul it, I am having second thoughts. What would I be able to pull this with (1800lbs), get decent gas mileage, and not tear up the tranny?

Anyone that drives a SMALLER truck, do you get decent gas mileage? I've checked out forums on different ones, but it seems everyone gets such different MPG. Wish I could afford a commuter and a truck, but up keep on two vehicles is too expensive while I'm in college. Any suggestions/advice/ideas?

Answer 1

My boyfriend has a 66 F100 he modified by installing a 460 big block. Yeah, the truck gets 8 miles to the gallon. Not too cost efficient since we communte 23 miles to work.

His solution was to buy a cheap but gas efficient vehicle which turned out to be an 81 chevy citation with 77k original miles.

its a junker but it runs and gets about 20-23mpg.

Smaller trucks (i.e Rangers) get good gas mileage and the new 08 ranger (V6 4x4) has a towing capacity of 3120 lbs. You obviously sacrifice more mpg when you get the v6 but if you need to tow 1800 lbs, most base model rangers tow 1600 and that's cutting it kinda close. It really depends on the vehicle you want and the oprions it has. do some research and find something you like.

Just check around for some good deals on clunker cars or go for the bad *** small truck.

hope that helps =)

Answer 2

trucks don't get good mileage, especially if you are going to be hauling chit.

get the civic!

Good luck!

Answer 3

Get a big tent,inflatable mattress and a propane stove.I also use a good screened in canopy over the table at most sites.It take me less than 30 min. to set everything up,less to take down.

Borrow some gear and try it,you might be surprised.Your Trans Am should be able to handle the gear in the hatchback.I know it sounds like your downgrading but if you do it right it'll be ok for a couple of years till your out of school.Just don't stop camping.

Answer 4

get a 2008 chevy tahoe. 14 mpg city and 20 something hwy

Answer 5

Ford Ranger with 4 cylinder and 5 speed manual.

It will handle a 2000 lbs trailer.

If you drive very conservatively, it is capable of over 30 mpg.  In mixed driving (40 mile commute in about 50 minutes).  The worst fuel economy I ever got was 17 mpg; big draggy load in the back, heavy front/side wind - it would not hold 60 mph in 5th, and had to use 4th.

Get a 2003 or later, there were some major improvements in 2003.