How many miles per gallon does a 2013 GMC 3500 diesel get?
The typical range for the 2013 GMC Sierra 3500HD with the Duramax 6.6L diesel is about 15–21 miles per gallon, with a combined figure usually in the high-teens. The exact number depends on cab/bed size, drivetrain, and how the truck is used (towing, payload, terrain, and driving style).
What counts as miles per gallon for this heavy-duty pickup can be nuanced. The EPA publishes separate city and highway estimates, and the overall efficiency fluctuates by configuration: two-wheel drive versus four-wheel drive, Regular/Crew Cab, bed length, and whether the truck is set up for towing. Real-world results often dip below the highway number when the truck is loaded or pulling a trailer.
EPA estimates by configuration
Below are typical EPA-style ranges for common 2013 Sierra 3500HD Duramax configurations. Keep in mind that exact numbers depend on the cab/bed setup and drivetrain.
Common configurations
- Two‑wheel drive (2WD) configurations, such as Regular or Crew Cab with a long bed, are commonly rated around 15 mpg city / 21 mpg highway, with a combined figure near 17–18 mpg.
- Four‑wheel drive (4x4) configurations, including Crew Cab with long bed, typically show about 14–15 mpg city and 19–20 mpg highway, with a combined around 17–18 mpg.
These figures provide a general sense of official ratings for typical setups. Real-world mileage will vary based on load, towing, terrain, and driving habits.
Real‑world considerations and tips
Several everyday factors can swing actual fuel economy well above or below the EPA numbers. Here are the main influences to consider when evaluating your own 2013 Sierra 3500HD’s mpg:
- Towing and payload: Heavier loads dramatically increase fuel consumption, especially on grades and during acceleration.
- Terrain and altitude: Stop‑and‑go city driving lowers mpg more than steady highway cruising at moderate speeds.
- Driving style: Aggressive acceleration, high speeds, and frequent braking waste fuel; smooth, steady driving helps.
- Maintenance and tire inflation: Underinflated tires and neglected maintenance reduce efficiency.
In practice, owners report a wide range of real‑world figures depending on how the truck is used. Expect lower mpg when towing or fully loaded, and higher mpg on highway-only, light-load runs.
Bottom line
For the 2013 GMC Sierra 3500HD with the Duramax diesel, a typical answer to “how many miles per gallon” is: about 15–21 mpg depending on configuration, with a common combined range in the high teens. For an exact figure, consult the EPA ratings for your specific cab/bed/drivetrain configuration or check the window sticker from the time of purchase. Real-world mileage will vary with towing, payload, and driving conditions.
Summary
The 2013 GMC Sierra 3500HD diesel delivers fuel economy in the high-teens to low-20s range, largely driven by drivetrain and usage. Two-wheel-drive setups tend to edge higher in highway efficiency, while four-wheel-drive configurations and towing reduce mpg. Always refer to EPA estimates for your exact build and consider real-world factors such as payload and towing to gauge expected fuel economy.
How many miles per gallon does a 3500 diesel get?
Efficiency leaders: Chevrolet/GMC 2500/3500 Duramax 6.6L, Ford F-250/F-350 6.7L, Ram 2500/3500 6.7L. Unloaded highway runs often deliver 17–20 mpg when geared sensibly.
How many MPG does a 6.6 Duramax diesel get?
One owner of a third-generation 2006 LBZ – the very engine that gave the 6.6 Duramax an edge over competing diesel powerplants – noted that when unloaded, their diesel engine gets between 17 and 18 mpg of fuel economy. But when towing, those numbers drop to around 10 to 12 mpg, depending on weight and road conditions.
How many miles per gallon does a GMC 3500HD diesel get?
A GMC 3500 diesel's real-world fuel economy is typically between 14–18 mpg highway and 10–14 mpg in the city, but can vary significantly based on driving conditions. For example, highway speeds over 75 mph often result in lower MPG, while towing heavy loads can bring mileage down to 8-11 mpg or lower, and city driving averages 11-16 mpg.
You can watch this video to see a real-world MPG test of a GMC Sierra 3500: 59sJB ReviewsYouTube · Nov 13, 2022
General fuel economy
- Highway: Expect around 14–18 mpg when driving unloaded on the highway. Some drivers report higher figures, up to 20 mpg, with sensible gearing at lower speeds.
- City/Mixed: Real-world city or mixed driving typically results in 11–14 mpg.
- Towing: Fuel economy drops significantly when towing. Numbers can range from 8–11 mpg or lower depending on the weight of the trailer and driving conditions.
Factors that influence MPG
- Driving habits: Aggressive acceleration and hard braking will decrease fuel economy.
- Towing: The heavier the load, the lower the MPG will be.
- Tire pressure: Keeping tires properly inflated can improve efficiency.
- Maintenance: Regular maintenance, including oil changes and air filter replacements, helps keep the engine running efficiently.
- Speed: Driving at higher speeds, especially over 75 mph, can decrease fuel economy.
How to maximize fuel economy
- Drive smoothly, avoiding rapid acceleration and braking.
- Use cruise control on the highway to maintain a consistent speed.
- Ensure tires are properly inflated.
- Reduce unnecessary weight and drag on the vehicle.
- Keep up with regular engine maintenance.
What is the towing capacity of a 2013 GMC 3500 diesel?
23,000 pounds
The heavy-duty versions of the Sierra give buyers significantly more towing capacity — up to 23,000 pounds — when properly equipped. They also offer an optional 6.6-liter Duramax diesel engine.
