Jun 20, 2024

Fuel efficiency has become increasingly important for truck buyers in recent years. As gas prices fluctuate, many consumers seek a pickup that can handle their daily driving needs and work demands without breaking the bank at the pump. The 2024 GMC Sierra 1500 aims to meet this demand by offering a range of powerful yet efficient engine options and various advanced technologies designed to optimize fuel economy.

Red GMC Sierra 1500 parked in the dirt
Image from gmc.com

As one of the most popular full-size trucks on the market, the Sierra 1500 is well-positioned to appeal to a wide range of buyers. Whether you’re a contractor who needs a reliable workhorse for the job site, a weekend warrior who loves to tow your boat or camper, or simply someone who appreciates the style and comfort of a well-appointed pickup, the Sierra has something to offer. And with its impressive fuel efficiency, it’s a truck that can save you money in the long run.

The 2024 GMC Sierra’s Fuel Efficiency

According to the EPA fuel efficiency reports, no full-size pickup truck is going to sip gas like a small sedan, but the Sierra 1500 is positioned comparatively against offerings by the leading manufacturers. The 2024 GMC Sierra 1500 offers four engine options, each with different fuel economy numbers. The base engine is a 2.7-liter turbocharged four-cylinder, which GMC has dubbed the “TurboMax.” This engine produces a respectable 310 hp and 420 lb-ft of torque paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission.

The 2.7-liter TurboMax engine in rear-wheel drive, according to the EPA, is rated at 18 mpg city, 22 mpg highway, and 20 mpg combined. With four-wheel drive, those numbers drop slightly to 17 mpg city, 20 mpg highway, and 18 mpg combined.

If you need more power, GMC offers a 5.3-liter V-8 engine. This naturally aspirated V-8 produces 355 hp and 383 lb-ft of torque and is paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. Fuel economy for the 5.3-liter V-8 is rated at 16 mpg city, 20 mpg highway, and 18 mpg combined in the rear-wheel drive configuration. With four-wheel drive, those numbers decrease to 15 mpg city, 19 mpg highway, and 17 mpg combined.

The most powerful engine available is a 6.2-liter gas-powered V-8, which produces an impressive 420 hp and 460 lb-ft of torque. The 6.2-litre V-8’s fuel economy is rated at 15 mpg city, 19 mpg highway, and 16 mpg combined.

If you prioritize fuel efficiency above all else, GMC offers a 3.0-liter turbocharged diesel inline-six engine. This engine produces 305 hp and 495 lb-ft of torque and is also paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. In rear-wheel drive, the diesel engine is rated at an impressive 23 mpg city, 29 mpg highway, and 25 mpg combined. For the four-wheel-drive model, those numbers go down slightly to 23 mpg city, 27 mpg highway, and 24 mpg combined.

Comparing MPG Across 2024 GMC Sierra Models

When examining the fuel efficiency and miles per gallon (mpg) of the various trims of the GMC Sierra, it’s evident that the type of engine significantly influences performance.

  1. Sierra Pro, SLE, and Elevation:
    • Engine: Standard 2.7L Turbo I4 (2WD)
    • Fuel Efficiency: This configuration provides a commendable balance between power and efficiency, delivering 19 mpg in the city and 22 mpg on the highway.
  2. Sierra SLT and Denali:
    • Engine: Standard 5.3L V8 (2WD)
    • Fuel Efficiency: These trims sacrifice some fuel economy for improved power, achieving 16 mpg in the city and 21 mpg on the highway.
    • You can upgrade to this engine for the Pro, SLE, and Elevation trims.
  3. Sierra AT4, AT4X, and Denali Ultimate:
    • Engine: Standard 3.0L Duramax Diesel I6 (2WD)
    • Fuel Efficiency: The diesel engine greatly enhances fuel efficiency, offering an impressive 23 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway, making it the most fuel-efficient option among the trims.
    • You can upgrade to this engine for the SLE, Elevation, SLT, and Denali trims.
  4. Optional Upgraded Engine for Sierra SLT, AT4, Denali, and Denali Ultimate:
    • Engine: Upgraded 6.2L V8 (4WD)
    • Fuel Efficiency: This powerful engine option is the least fuel-efficient, delivering 15 mpg in the city and 19 mpg on the highway. Though it offers substantial power, it does so at the cost of higher fuel consumption.

Factors Influencing Fuel Economy in the 2024 GMC Sierra

Several key factors influence the fuel economy of the 2024 GMC Sierra 1500. One of the most significant is the truck’s aerodynamic design. GMC has made several tweaks to the Sierra’s exterior to help it slice through the air more efficiently, including a redesigned grille, active aero shutters, and a more streamlined overall shape.

Another critical factor is the Sierra’s weight. While full-size trucks are inherently heavy vehicles, GMC has tried to reduce the Sierra’s curb weight wherever possible. It’s achieved this by using lightweight materials, such as aluminum and high-strength steel, and advanced manufacturing techniques that allow for a more optimized structure.

The Sierra’s engine technology also significantly contributes to its fuel efficiency. All available engines feature direct injection, variable valve timing, and Active Fuel Management (which can deactivate cylinders when they’re not needed to save fuel).

Of course, the Sierra’s towing and hauling capabilities also impact its fuel economy. When the truck is transporting heavy cargo or pulling a trailer, its efficiency will naturally take a hit. However, GMC has equipped the Sierra with several features to mitigate this, including an available trailer brake controller, trailer sway control, and an integrated trailer tire pressure monitoring system.

How the 2024 GMC Sierra Stacks Up Against Competitors

The 2024 GMC Sierra 1500’s fuel efficiency is comparable to its rivals in the full-size pickup truck category.

2023 Chevrolet Silverado 1500

  • 2.7L Turbo I4: 19 mpg city / 22 mpg highway
  • 5.3L V8: 16 mpg city / 22 mpg highway
  • 6.2L V8: 15 mpg city / 20 mpg highway

2023 Ford F-150

  • 3.3L V6: 20 mpg city / 24 mpg highway
  • 2.7L Turbo V6: 20 mpg city / 26 mpg highway
  • 5.0L V8: 17 mpg city / 23 mpg highway

2023 Ram 1500

  • 3.6L V6: 20 mpg city / 25 mpg highway
  • 5.7L V8: 17 mpg city / 23 mpg highway
  • 5.7L V8 eTorque: 18 mpg city / 23 mpg highway

2023 Toyota Tundra

  • 3.5L Twin-Turbo V6: 18 mpg city / 24 mpg highway
  • Hybrid Twin-Turbo V6: 20 mpg city / 24 mpg highway

Driving Tips To Maximize MPG in Your 2024 GMC Sierra

If you want to get the most out of your 2024 GMC Sierra 1500’s fuel efficiency (and save some money), you can follow a few simple tips. First, try to maintain a steady speed whenever possible. Accelerating and braking frequently can have a significant effect on your mpg, so it’s best to use cruise control on the highway and anticipate stops in city driving.

Another important factor is tire pressure. You should always make sure that your tires are inflated to the recommended pressure, as underinflated tires can cause your engine to work harder and burn more fuel. In addition, avoid carrying unnecessary weight in your truck, as this can also reduce your fuel economy.

If you’re towing a trailer or hauling a heavy load, there are a few additional steps you can take to maximize your efficiency. First, ensure your trailer is properly balanced and your load is secured. This will help reduce drag and improve stability. You should also use the Sierra’s available Tow/Haul mode, which adjusts the transmission shift points and throttle mapping to optimize towing performance and efficiency.

Finally, consider using the Sierra’s available drive modes to optimize your fuel economy in different driving conditions. For example, the Eco mode can help you save fuel by adjusting the throttle response and transmission shift points, while the Off-Road mode can help you maintain traction and stability on rough terrain.

With these tips, you can improve your fuel efficiency, fill up less often, and save money.

Experience the Fuel-Efficient 2024 GMC Sierra at Meadowland GMC

If you’re in the market for a full-size pickup truck that comes with impressive capability, advanced technology, and outstanding fuel efficiency, the 2024 GMC Sierra 1500 is worth a closer look. At Meadowland GMC, you’ll find a wide selection of Sierra 1500 models, including the fuel-efficient TurboMax and Duramax diesel options. So why wait? Contact us today to arrange a test drive. Check out our new vehicle specials for great deals. Our knowledgeable sales staff can help you find the perfect truck to meet your needs and our finance team can make sure it fits your budget, and our state-of-the-art service center can make sure you keep your Sierra running at peak efficiency for years to come.