Trucks have historically been judged largely on their ability to haul and tow. In these times of steep gas prices, however, fuel-efficiency certainly merits a place in the mix, and some trucks have the goods to meet this challenge. The 10 pickups that follow are the best examples. These are the 10 trucks offering the best gas mileage.

Our rankings were arrived at using the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) miles-per-gallon ratings for city and highway travel. We utilized the EPA's combined fuel-economy formula: 55 percent of city mpg rating plus 45 percent of highway mpg rating. The rating listed for each pickup is shown in mpg as a city/highway ratio. All ratings apply to base models equipped with manual transmissions.

1. Ford Ranger — 21/26 (tie)
   The Ford Ranger comes with a low price tag; in its four-wheel-drive iteration, it also offers off-road competence.
   
   Mazda B-Series — 21/26 (tie)
   Though the Mazda B-Series loses points for its dated design, its compact size endows the truck with nimble handling.



2. Toyota Tacoma — 20/25
   With excellent build quality and a well-appointed interior, the Tacoma is a Toyota to the core.



3. Nissan Frontier — 19/23
   The Nissan Frontier is a standout, offering a smooth highway ride and a chassis built to take on off-road challenges.



4. Chevrolet Colorado — 18/24 (tie)
   Impressive crash test scores and poised handling are the hallmarks of the Chevrolet Colorado.
   
   GMC Canyon — 18/24 (tie)
   Like its corporate twin, the Colorado, the GMC Canyon feels composed on pavement.
   
   Isuzu i-Series — 18/24 (tie)
   The i-Series offers a lot given its low price; expect confident handling and a long list of standard features.



5. Mitsubishi Raider — 16/22
   Look to the Raider for a roomy cabin and intuitive controls.



6. Dodge Dakota — 16/20
   The Dakota is known for offering a strong engine lineup and agile handling.



7. Dodge Ram 1500 — 16/19
   Experience the Dodge Ram 1500, and it becomes clear that this truck masters the roles of accommodating daily driver and undaunted workhorse with equal aplomb.