The 2022 GMC Sierra 2WD with the 5.3L V8 engine gets 18 MPG combined. While this isn’t the best fuel economy, most Sierra buyers are aware of it. This truck isn’t bought for saving money on gas; it’s purchased for its capability, comfortable ride, and strong presence. Typical buyers include contractors, people who use their truck for weekend activities like hauling boats or campers, or those who simply want a full-size pickup. They prioritize towing capacity, bed size, and interior space over fuel efficiency.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2022 GMC Sierra 2WD 5.3L V8 at 16 MPG in the city and 21 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the frequent stops, starts, and idling in urban environments, where the big V8 is less efficient. The highway number is better, but you need to drive carefully and maintain consistent speeds to reach it. The ten-speed automatic transmission helps save on fuel by keeping the engine near its ideal RPM, but it can’t overcome the inherent thirst of a V8 in a heavy truck.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA says the annual fuel cost for the 2022 GMC Sierra 2WD 5.3L V8 is $2,450. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with 55% of those miles in the city and 45% on the highway, using national average fuel prices. Your actual fuel costs will change depending on how and where you drive, and on the current price of gasoline in your area.

Real-world expectations

The EPA provides a standard estimate, but real-world fuel economy often differs. You can expect to see numbers close to the EPA’s if you drive conservatively and mostly on the highway. However, if you often tow, haul heavy loads, or drive aggressively, your mileage will likely be lower. The Sierra’s fuel economy also drops in cold weather, especially during short trips when the engine doesn’t fully warm up. Keep these factors in mind.

How it compares

The 2022 GMC Sierra 2WD 5.3L V8’s fuel economy is typical for its class. The Ford F-150 with the 2.7L EcoBoost V6 gets a slightly better 20 MPG combined. Some buyers prefer the low-end torque and traditional feel of the Sierra’s V8. The Chevrolet Silverado, which is similar to the Sierra, has the same fuel economy numbers with its 5.3L V8. The Ram 1500’s eTorque mild-hybrid system helps its 5.7L Hemi achieve 19 MPG combined. If fuel costs are important, check all GMC fuel economy data on FuelEconomyHub’s resource pages to choose the right trim and engine. Also, compare SIERRA MPG across all years to find the right balance between fuel efficiency and value.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Avoid quick acceleration and hard braking. The Sierra is a heavy vehicle, and aggressive driving greatly reduces fuel economy. Accelerating gently and anticipating stops can improve your gas mileage.

Keep your tires properly inflated. Underinflated tires create more rolling resistance, which reduces fuel efficiency. Check your tire pressure often and inflate them to the level on the sticker inside the driver’s side door.

Reduce idling time. Idling wastes fuel, especially with a large engine like the 5.3L V8. If you’ll be stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine.

Use cruise control on the highway. Maintaining a constant speed optimizes fuel economy. Cruise control can help you avoid speeding and keep a steady pace, which results in better gas mileage on long drives. Disable cruise control in hilly areas because constant gear changes can hurt fuel economy.

Consider using a tonneau cover. Some studies suggest that a tonneau cover can improve aerodynamics, which might slightly improve highway fuel economy. This is especially helpful if you often drive at higher speeds.