The 2021 GMC Sierra 1500 Crew Cab was ranked the most fuel-efficient truck
for this year. Its engines range from a turbo 4-cylinder to a 6-cylinder diesel and a big V8. Some of them are even able to cut engine power at idle to save fuel using a start/stop system.
Let’s see why Kelley Blue Book (KBB)
chose this truck over the rest of the competition as their top pick for 2022. The 2021 GMC Sierra 1500 Crew Cab offers plenty of options
Though its towing capability doesn’t rival the Ford F-150 or Ram 1500, it does feature enhanced trailering technology.
According to KBB, “It has similar underpinnings and powertrain choices as its Chevrolet Silverado sibling, [but] the Sierra touts more premium flair and design differences.” The full-size pickup offers Wireless AppleCarPlay and Android Audio, as well as active safety features on the base model.
The various 2021 trims include the GMC Sierra, GMC Sierra SLE, GMC Sierra Elevation, GMC Sierra SLT, GMC Sierra AT4, and the GMC Sierra Denali.
“The 2021 Sierra offers a variety of engines that range from GM’s tried-and-true 5.3-liter V8 to a potent diesel, turbocharged 4-cylinder, and big 6.2-liter V8,” KBB notes. You also have plenty of options for different bed lengths and cab configurations. Also, the Sierra AT4 boasts a standard four-wheel drive and a factory lift.
This fuel-efficient truck will start at around $27,000, with most buyers will opt for a crew cab with a short bed, which will set them back about $36,000. If you’ve got a bigger budget, the $50,000 off-roadster Sierra AT4 or fully loaded 2021 GMC Sierra Denali in the $70,000 range might be more your style.
Driving and notable features
MORE: Recall Alert: Chevy and GMC Trucks Are at Risk of Airbags Going Off For No Reason
KBB reviewers were able to test the top-of-the-line Sierra Denali Crew Cab. Their model cranked out 420 hp out of a 6.2-liter V8 engine. “The engine uses Dynamic Fuel Management to control cylinder operation, but [it’s hard] tell when [it’s] working—that’s a compliment to its seamless nature,” according to KBB.
They also noted the power off the line was smooth and quick, a satisfying response from a 10-speed transmission. The 2.7-liter four-cylinder turbo (offered on the SLE and Elevation trims) impressed reviewers with its powerful performance, yet lightweight feel. And the models can tow up to 9,200 pounds!
Another way to go is the “3.0-liter Duramax diesel, a smooth turbocharged inline-6 that gives the Sierra excellent EPA highway fuel economy of up to 30 mpg,” according to KBB. It’s great for everyday use and its towing capabilities are no less impressive. No matter what engine you fancy, you’ll get an even quieter cabin ride with linear and predictable braking.
The Prograde trailering system includes 15 camera angles and the first-ever transparent trailer view. “By combining cameras on the tailgate and a remote one at the back of the trailer, it creates an invisible outline of the trailer, enabling you to virtually see through it,” according to KBB.
The GMC Sierra was the first pickup truck to feature a MultiPro Tailgate. A key fob can power it up and down, and it can be reconfigured in six different ways. This comes in handy for loading, organizing gear, and hosting a weekly tailgate during football season.
Practical yet simple styling
The Sierra and the Chevrolet Silverado have similar mechanics, but their exterior architecture is what really sets them apart. Sierras comes with 12 cargo tie-downs in the bed and convenient side corner steps in the rear bumper. And don’t forget the carbon-fiber bed, GMC’s toughest bed yet.
If you’re looking for adventure, “the AT4 trim has a 2-inch factory lift, dark exterior accents, beefy all-terrain tires, and a pair of red tow hooks in front,” reports KBB.
While the interior is functional, it's not very innovative in terms of design. However, the cabin is spacious with comfortable seats. The 5-passenger Sierra features a large storage compartment in the center console.
Reviewers recommended at least stepping up to the SLE trim. That way you’ll receive a six-speaker audio system, cruise control, keyless entry, and a fancy leather-wrapped steering wheel.
Other fuel-efficient trucks on the top 10 list
Coming in second is the 2022 Ford Ranger SuperCrew. It’s pretty good on gas and also offers buyers lots of variations to choose from. With excellent towing and payload abilities, the Ranger is not a bad alternative.
Next is the compact crossover SUV, the 2022 Hyundai Santa Cruz. It’s Hyundai’s first pickup truck and can tow up to 5,000 pounds. However, the bed is a little short, and safety features like blind spot monitoring or rear-cross traffic alert don’t come standard.
At number four and five on the list, are the 2022 Ram 1500
Quad Cab and the 2021 Ram 1500 Crew Cab. The Quad Cab doesn’t tow as much as a Ford F-150, but it does offer an available diesel engine and 702-hp TRX. The 2021 Ram 1500 Crew Cab has a 6.2-liter V8 engine with 702 hp. The truck also features an optional head-up display, optional digital rearview mirror, and Trailer Reverse Steering Control for the Trailer Package.
The remainder of the list includes the 2021 GMC Canyon Extended Cab, the 2021 Chevrolet Colorado Extended Cab, the 2022 Ford F150 SuperCrew Cab, the 2022 Toyota Tacoma Access Cab, and the 2022 Honda Ridgeline.
Before you dive right into buying a new pickup, check the Fair Purchase Price on KBB’s website
to see what others are paying for their truck. 
4.7
