How many miles per gallon does a 4.3 L V6 Chevy 1500 get?
In short, miles per gallon depends on the model year, drivetrain, and configuration. You’ll typically see roughly 18–23 mpg combined, with newer EcoTec3 versions and rear-wheel-drive setups tending toward the higher end of the range.
The following breakdown provides a detailed look at how fuel economy has varied across generations of the Chevy Silverado 1500 (and its sister trucks) when powered by the 4.3-liter V6, along with the factors that influence real-world mileage.
Older 4.3L V6 (Vortec 4300) in Silverado/Sierra 1500 (1999–2006)
Drivetrain options and expected ranges
These early models paired the 4.3L V6 with a 4-speed automatic transmission in both two-wheel drive and four-wheel drive configurations. EPA estimates vary by cab style and gearing, but general ranges are as follows:
- 2WD: approximately 16–18 mpg in city driving and 21–23 mpg on the highway; combined roughly 18–20 mpg.
- 4WD: approximately 15–16 mpg in the city and 20–22 mpg on the highway; combined roughly 17–19 mpg.
Note that payload, towing, and driving conditions significantly affect real-world mileage on these trucks, and older test cycles generally produced lower numbers than modern testing.
Second generation 4.3L V6 (Vortec 4300) in Silverado/Sierra 1500 (2007–2013)
EPA estimates and drivetrain impact
Updated engines and transmissions offered modest efficiency gains, but there remained a clear split between 2WD and 4WD configurations. Typical EPA ranges for common builds were:
- 2WD: about 17–19 mpg in the city and 22–23 mpg on the highway; combined around 19–21 mpg.
- 4WD: about 16–18 mpg in the city and 21–23 mpg on the highway; combined around 18–20 mpg.
As with earlier years, actual mileage depends on towing, payload, terrain, and maintenance, with highway cruising providing the best numbers.
Modern EcoTec3 4.3L V6 in Silverado/Sierra 1500 (2014–present)
Current powertrain technology and real-world results
The modern 4.3L EcoTec3 version (often paired with an 8-speed automatic in many trims) brings improved highway efficiency and better overall economy compared with older iterations. EPA estimates vary by drivetrain and cab configuration but typical figures are:
- 2WD: roughly 18–19 mpg in the city and 24–26 mpg on the highway; combined about 21–23 mpg.
- 4WD: roughly 17–18 mpg in the city and 22–24 mpg on the highway; combined about 19–21 mpg.
Real-world mileage will still depend on factors such as payload, towing, aerodynamics, tire choice, and driving style. Temperature and road grade also influence fuel economy more than you might expect in full-size pickups.
Summary
Across generations, the 4.3L V6 in the Chevy Silverado 1500 offers mid-range fuel economy for a full-size pickup. Expect roughly 18–23 mpg combined depending on year and drivetrain, with 2WD versions generally posting the higher end of the range and 4WD versions trailing by a few miles per gallon. For precise figures, consult the model-year window sticker or the EPA’s online fuel economy database for the exact configuration you’re considering.
Quick takeaway
If you’re shopping used or researching a specific truck, check the exact configuration (year, cab/bed, 2WD vs 4WD, transmission) to see the EPA ratings and consider real-world factors like towing and payload that can swing mileage significantly.
