At 24 MPG combined, the 2022 GMC Sierra 4WD with the 3.0L Duramax diesel is frugal for a full-size truck. It’s a capable workhorse often used for long hauls, towing, and daily family duties. For these owners, fuel economy is a critical part of owning it.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2022 GMC Sierra 4WD 3.0L diesel gets 22 MPG in the city and 26 MPG on the highway. The impressive highway figure results from the engine’s low-revving nature combined with the smooth-shifting 10-speed automatic transmission. The transmission always seems to be in the right gear, keeping the engine in its sweet spot for both power and efficiency. In the city, the diesel’s torque helps get the heavy truck moving without excessive throttle input, contributing to the respectable 22 MPG rating. These numbers show the careful engineering and optimization put into this powertrain.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2022 GMC Sierra 4WD 3.0L diesel at $2,300. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. This is a key data point for potential buyers. While the initial purchase price of a diesel truck is higher, the lower running costs are a definite plus. For owners racking up significant mileage, this fuel economy advantage can translate to real savings over the vehicle’s lifespan.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a useful baseline, real-world fuel economy always depends on driving habits and conditions. With a light foot and mostly highway driving, some owners have reported exceeding the EPA’s 26 MPG highway estimate. Towing, hauling heavy loads, or aggressive driving will reduce fuel economy. Overall, most owners can expect to see figures quite close to the EPA estimates, making the 3.0L Duramax a fuel-efficient option within the full-size truck segment. Those concerned about other options can review all Gmc fuel economy data to compare.

How it compares

In the full-size truck arena, the Sierra 3.0L diesel stands out. The Ford F-150 with the 3.5L PowerBoost hybrid is rated at 25 MPG combined for the 4×2 version and around 23 MPG combined for the 4×4. The RAM 1500 with the 3.0L EcoDiesel, which was discontinued after 2023, was rated around 23 MPG combined. For gasoline engines, the Chevy Silverado and Sierra trucks with the 5.3L V8 achieve around 17-18 MPG combined in 4WD configuration. This puts the Sierra diesel significantly ahead of most gasoline-powered competitors and nearly equal with some hybrid options. The advantage matters significantly to buyers who prioritize fuel efficiency without sacrificing the capabilities of a full-size truck. Buyers concerned about longevity of various models can check SIERRA MPG across all years.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Maintain a steady speed and avoid excessive acceleration. The 3.0L Duramax diesel produces plenty of torque at low RPMs, so you don’t need to push the engine hard to get up to speed. Smooth, gradual acceleration will conserve fuel and reduce wear on the engine and drivetrain.

Use cruise control on the highway whenever possible. This helps maintain a consistent speed and prevents unintentional speed fluctuations, which can negatively affect fuel economy. The Sierra’s adaptive cruise control is useful for maintaining a safe following distance while optimizing fuel consumption.

Keep your tires properly inflated to the recommended pressure. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, causing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Check your tire pressures regularly, especially before long trips.

Minimize idling. Diesel engines don’t need to be warmed up for extended periods of time. Excessive idling wastes fuel and can also contribute to engine wear. Turn off the engine if you’re going to be stopped for more than a minute or two.

Consider using the Sierra’s available drive modes. If your Sierra is equipped with selectable drive modes, experiment with which settings optimize performance versus economy for specific situations. For example, “Tow/Haul” mode will maximize performance while towing a heavy load, whereas “Normal” mode should yield the most efficient fuel burn in daily driving.