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Compact trucks are an excellent balance between drivability and truck utility. They’ve become trendy, and a few new models entered the segment for 2022. A few pickups get far better gas mileage in the class than the others. Fuel economy is vital now that gas prices are at an all-time high. Here are four compact trucks that get over 20 mpg.

The 2022 Ford Ranger gets 20 mpg

The Ford maverick is one of four compact trucks that get over 20 mpg. Fuel economy is king in the pickup segment.
The 2022 Ford Ranger pickup truck in the dirt | Ford

According to Consumer Reports testing, the 2022 Ford Ranger gets 14 city and 27 highway miles per gallon. That’s good for a combined 20 mpg, making it the fourth-highest among compact trucks. However, it’s the third-ranked truck on CR’s list of best overall compact models. While it isn’t fuel-efficient enough to blow anyone’s mind, it’s better than five other compact truck models, including the Toyota Tacoma.

In addition, CR recommends buying the 2022 Ford Ranger. On top of decent fuel economy, the reviewer noted great maneuverability, plenty of storage space, and excellent predicted reliability. As the larger of Ford’s two compact pickups, the Ranger has a lot to prove with its upcoming 2023 redesign.

Consumer Reports’ top-ranked compact truck gets 20 mpg

The 2022 Honda Ridgeline is the highest ranked pickup truck with excellent fuel economy.
2022 Honda Ridgeline | Honda

Consumer Reports highest-ranked truck in both the compact and full-size segments is the Honda Ridgeline. The publication loves this model, with an impressive score of 82 out of 100. The Ridgeline averages 13 city mpg and 29 on the highway for fuel economy. Combined, Honda’s lone pickup gets 20 mpg, making it tied for third in the compact truck segment.

However, the Honda Ridgeline shines in many other categories. Most prominently is the road test, on which Honda’s truck scored an 83 out of 100. The compact truck has a quiet, upscale cabin, a comfortable ride, innovative pickup features, and more. We love the Ridgeline’s in-bed audio system, which seems like it should be a more common truck feature.

The 2022 Ford Maverick is in second for combined mpg

The 2022 Ford Maverick gets over 20 mpg and is one of the best compact pickup trucks available.
Ford Maverick | Ford

In the compact truck segment, the Ford Maverick ranks second overall in fuel economy. Additionally, its CR’s second-favorite model behind the Ridgeline. CR says it gets 16 mpg in the city and an impressive 32 mpg on the highway with its standard hybrid powertrain for a combined 23 mpg. However, according to FuelEconomy.gov, the Maverick gets 42 city and 33 highway for a combined 37 mpg, putting it in first place.

Furthermore, the 2022 Ford Maverick is a recommended model by the reviewer. Combining excellent fuel economy, a fantastic ride and handling, maneuverability, visibility, and more, the Maverick is a great option. Most importantly, the Maverick is a very well-priced model. Starting at $20,000, it’s the most affordable compact pickup truck available.

2022 Hyundai Santa Cruz: Best combined fuel economy

Although it placed fourth on CR’s compact truck rankings, the Hyundai Santa Cruz gets the best gas mileage. Averaging 16 city and 34 highway mpg, the Santa Cruz takes the cake with 24 mpg combined. In the compact truck segment, it’s challenging to lead in any category. Edging out popular models like the Toyota Tacoma isn’t easy, no matter the measurement.

However, as the fourth-ranked truck from CR, there’s a bit the publication dislikes. Despite its class-leading fuel economy, the Santa Cruz has a small bed and poor rear visibility. Moreover, with peppy acceleration, car-like driving, and great modern controls, Hyundai’s truck remains a viable option. It’s not too expensive either, starting at just $24,440.

There are a few compact trucks that get over 20 mpg

If you’re tired of paying too much at the pump with your pickup, choose one of these models. The Ford Ranger, Ford Maverick, Honda Ridgeline, and Hyundai Santa Cruz average 20 or more combined mpg. Fuel economy is kind in every vehicle segment in 2022. Consumer Reports’ favorite truck, the Ridgeline, gets the third-best fuel economy, while its fourth-ranked model’s average is the highest. Which compact truck is the best option for you?

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