How many miles per gallon does a 2016 Chevy 3500HD get?
For the 2016 Silverado 3500HD, fuel economy depends on engine and drivetrain. A general guidance places gasoline versions around the mid-teens for combined mpg, while the Duramax diesel typically lands in the high teens to low 20s combined. Real-world figures vary with payload, towing, and driving conditions.
The 2016 Silverado 3500HD is a heavy-duty pickup designed for work, so its mpg figures reflect its towing and payload capabilities as much as city commuting. This article breaks down typical EPA ranges by powertrain and explains factors that affect efficiency, along with tips to maximize mileage.
Engine options and their impact on fuel economy
Below are the main powertrains available for the 2016 Silverado 3500HD and the approximate EPA ranges you could expect under typical conditions. Note that exact ratings depend on cab/bed configuration, axle ratio, and whether the truck is two-wheel drive (2WD) or four-wheel drive (4x4).
Gasoline 6.0L V8
- Gasoline 6.0L V8, 2WD: combined roughly 13-15 mpg; city about 10-12 mpg; highway 16-18 mpg.
- Gasoline 6.0L V8, 4x4: combined roughly 12-14 mpg; city about 9-11 mpg; highway 15-17 mpg.
These figures reflect the gas-powered version of the 3500HD, which emphasizes torque for towing and payload rather than fuel efficiency. Real-world numbers will vary with load and driving style.
Duramax 6.6L Turbo-Diesel
- Duramax 6.6L Diesel, 2WD: combined roughly 18-20 mpg; city about 15-17 mpg; highway 20-23 mpg.
- Duramax 6.6L Diesel, 4x4: combined roughly 17-19 mpg; city about 14-16 mpg; highway 19-22 mpg.
Diesel-equipped 3500HD models typically offer the best long-range efficiency, particularly on highway cruising, but towing and heavy payloads will affect these numbers. Actual performance depends on gearing, axle ratio, and application.
Real-world performance and tips
In real-world use, many drivers report fuel economy that differs from EPA estimates due to towing, payload, and driving habits. Here are practical factors that influence mpg and ways to improve it.
- Payload and towing: Heavier loads increase engine work and reduce efficiency.
- Tire choice and pressure: Under-inflated or oversized tires raise rolling resistance.
- Aerodynamics: Payload height and bed contents can affect airflow; keep loads compact when possible.
- Maintenance: Regular oil changes, air filter replacement, and proper engine tune-ups help maintain efficiency.
- Driving behavior: Steady speeds, gradual acceleration, and avoiding excessive idling improve mpg.
For best results, plan trips to minimize stop-and-go driving, keep tires inflated to the recommended pressure, and consider a balanced setup when towing. Diesel models also benefit from clean oil and appropriate fuel filters designed for heavy use.
Summary
The 2016 Chevrolet Silverado 3500HD’s miles-per-gallon varies notably by powertrain and configuration. Expect roughly 13-15 mpg combined with the gas 6.0L V8 (2WD), 12-14 mpg with 4x4 variants of the same engine, and about 18-20 mpg combined with the Duramax 6.6L diesel (2WD), or 17-19 mpg with 4x4. Real-world results depend on payload, towing, terrain, and driving habits. With proper maintenance and mindful driving, you can maximize efficiency within the truck’s heavy-duty design.
