The EPA fuel numbers are in, and the 2019 Ford Ranger has achieved best-in-class fuel economy for a gas-powered mid-size pickup.

Ford’s Ranger pickup is just about ready to return to North American dealerships, but just before it arrives the Blue Oval will get a lovely feather to place in the mid-size pickup’s cap.

The EPA has just released their estimated fuel economy findings for the 2019 Ranger, and the numbers are very good. For the Ranger in 2WD configuration with a 2.3-L turbocharged EcoBoost inline 4-cylinder engine and 10-speed automatic transmission (the only engine and transmission that the Ranger will launch with), the truck gets 21 miles per gallon in the city, 26 miles per gallon on the highway, and 23 overall.

That’s actually better than any other gas-powered mid-size on the market and ties the Chevy Colorado diesel for combined mileage.

Compare that with the 2WD Toyota Tacoma at 21 combined mileage, and the Chevy Colorado or GMC Canyon at 22 combined mileage, and the Ranger is looking like the most economical option available.

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Admittedly, truck buyers aren’t always that concerned with fuel economy, but it’s still a nice marketing point for the Ranger that Ford can use to get a leg-up in what is sure to be a very competitive market space.

2019 Ford Ranger Offers Diesel-Like MPG With Gas Engine
via Ford

Fuel economy is also tight for the 4WD Ranger, which gets 20 city / 24 highway / 22 combined mileage. Once again, that’s better than any other 4WD mid-size pickup that sips gas.

Ford is also quick to point out that the Ranger has best-in-class torque at 310 lb-ft and also best-in-class towing and payload at 7,500 lbs and 1,860 lbs, respectively.

The Ranger will arrive at dealerships in January with a starting price of $25,395, but higher trims can easily surpass the $40,000 mark, especially if you opt for any of the 125 aftermarket parts that will also be available when the Ranger launches.

NEXT: CHECK OUT THE 2019 FORD RANGER'S EXTENSIVE LIST OF OUTDOOR ACCESSORIES