15 MPG combined is the reality with the 2024 GMC Sierra 1500 4WD when you choose the 6.2L V8 and the mud-terrain tires. Let’s be clear: nobody choosing this configuration is prioritizing fuel efficiency. This is a truck built for serious off-road capability, towing heavy loads, and making a statement, and the fuel economy reflects that focus.

City and highway fuel economy

The EPA estimates for the 2024 GMC Sierra with this specific engine and tire setup come in at 14 MPG in the city and 17 MPG on the highway. These figures highlight the impact of stop-and-go driving and the rolling resistance of the mud-terrain tires. Highway driving, while better, is still constrained by the truck’s weight, aerodynamics (or lack thereof), and the inherent inefficiencies of a large-displacement gasoline engine. The 10-speed automatic transmission does its best to keep the engine in its most efficient operating range, but ultimately, physics prevail.

Annual fuel cost

Owning and operating a vehicle like this comes with a cost, and the EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2024 GMC Sierra 6.2L 4WD with mud-terrain tires at $3,850. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with 55% of those miles driven in the city and 45% on the highway, using national average fuel prices. Keep in mind that fluctuations in gasoline prices and your personal driving habits will directly impact your actual fuel expenses. For drivers who rack up significantly more than 15,000 miles a year, or those living in areas with higher fuel costs, expect to pay even more at the pump. If you are curious to compare all all Gmc fuel economy data, we have them all cataloged here.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standardized benchmark, real-world fuel economy often varies. Aggressive driving, frequent towing, and challenging off-road conditions will decrease fuel economy below the EPA estimates. Conversely, careful driving on long highway stretches might yield slightly better results. However, don’t expect miracles. The nature of this truck, with its powerful engine and specialized tires, is such that fuel economy will always be a secondary consideration. The Sierra’s 6.2L V8 delivers effortless power and a throaty exhaust note, and many owners find the tradeoff in fuel economy a worthwhile one.

How it compares

Compared to other full-size trucks, the 2024 Sierra 6.2L 4WD with mud-terrain tires sits near the bottom of the fuel economy spectrum. A Ford F-150 with the 3.5L EcoBoost V6 can achieve around 20 MPG combined, and even the Ram 1500 with the 5.7L Hemi V8 typically manages a slightly better 17-18 MPG combined in 4WD configuration. The Toyota Tundra with its i-FORCE MAX hybrid powertrain sees real world numbers surpassing 20 MPG regularly. The Chevrolet Silverado, mechanically similar to the Sierra, will likely have identical numbers. However, these trucks don’t always offer the same level of off-road capability or raw power as the Sierra with this specific configuration. For those looking to see the SIERRA MPG across all years, resources exist to compare them closely. The buyer of this Sierra knows what they’re getting and is willing to pay the price at the pump for the performance and image it provides.

Tips to maximize efficiency

While fuel economy might not be the primary concern for Sierra 6.2L owners, there are still ways to minimize consumption. Avoid aggressive acceleration and hard braking. The instant torque of the V8 is tempting, but gentle inputs will save fuel.

Ensure that your mud-terrain tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, significantly reducing fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate to the recommended PSI, even if it means sacrificing a bit of ride comfort.

Reduce unnecessary weight. Hauling around extra gear can negatively affect fuel economy. Remove any items you don’t need from the truck bed or cab. Every pound counts, especially when accelerating from a stop.

Plan your trips efficiently. Combine errands into a single trip to minimize cold starts, which consume more fuel. Avoid peak traffic hours when possible to reduce stop-and-go driving.

Consider using cruise control on long highway drives. Maintaining a consistent speed can improve fuel economy compared to constantly fluctuating your speed with the throttle.