The 2023 GMC Sierra 4WD with its 2.7-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine gets 19 MPG combined. While this isn’t the best in its class, remember what the Sierra is: a capable pickup truck. These trucks are often bought by people who need a reliable build for work, towing, or recreation. For many, fuel economy is less important than capability and value. This Sierra is often a worksite tool, a weekend hauler, or both.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates that the Sierra 4WD 2.7L will get 18 MPG in the city and 20 MPG on the highway. The combined number gives a useful overview, and the separate city and highway numbers show how driving style affects fuel use. Stop-and-go city driving uses more fuel, while steady highway speeds let the engine run most efficiently.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates an annual fuel cost of $2,300 for the 2023 GMC Sierra 4WD 2.7L. This number is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Your costs may be different depending on local fuel prices and driving habits. The $2,300 is a good starting point for budgeting fuel costs for this Sierra model. Remember that if you mainly use your Sierra for short trips, heavy towing, or off-road driving, you’ll likely spend more.

Real-world expectations

EPA estimates come from standardized tests done in labs. How you actually drive is affected by your driving style, the terrain, weather, and how much you’re carrying in the vehicle. Driving fast, braking often, carrying heavy loads, and driving into the wind can lower fuel efficiency. Owners who drive smoothly, avoid idling, and keep their tires properly inflated will likely see results closer to the EPA estimates. Also, aftermarket wheels and tires affect economy in predictable ways.

How it compares

The Sierra 4WD’s fuel economy is about average for full-size pickup trucks. The Ford F-150 with its 2.7L EcoBoost V6 engine gets a bit better, at 22 MPG combined in 4×4 configuration. A similar Chevrolet Silverado with the same 2.7L turbo gets the same 19 MPG combined rating. The Toyota Tundra with its i-FORCE 3.5L Twin-Turbo V6 gets around 19 MPG combined, but that number goes down a lot when towing. The Sierra 2.7L is a worthy compromise for those who need four-wheel drive and want a full-size truck but don’t want the poor fuel economy of V8-powered trucks. Check SIERRA MPG across all years to see how this model compares to previous generations.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The turbocharged four-cylinder offers decent economy for a full-size truck, and there are ways to get even better fuel efficiency. Take out any extra weight from the truck bed or cab. Extra weight makes the engine work harder and use more fuel. Keeping the bed mostly empty, unless you’re using the truck for work, will improve gas mileage.

Avoid driving aggressively, such as accelerating quickly and braking hard. The Sierra’s automatic transmission is designed to shift smoothly and efficiently. Smooth and predictable driving lets the transmission choose the best gear for fuel economy. Watch the traffic and drive at a steady speed to use less fuel.

Proper tire inflation is important for fuel efficiency. Regularly check tire pressures and inflate them to the levels listed on the doorjamb sticker. Under-inflated tires create more rolling resistance, which lowers fuel economy. Doing so also improves tire wear and overall handling.

Consider using cruise control on the highway to keep a steady speed. This reduces unnecessary acceleration and braking, leading to better fuel economy over long distances. Be ready to turn off cruise control if the road is hilly or the traffic is changing, to drive safely.

Make sure all scheduled maintenance is done on time. A well-maintained engine and transmission will run more efficiently. Regular oil changes, air filter replacements, and tune-ups all help to maximize fuel economy. Browse all Gmc fuel economy data to see how different models perform.