How many miles per gallon does a 6.6 gas Chevy 2500 get?
The typical fuel economy for a Silverado 2500HD powered by the 6.6-liter gas V8 sits in the mid-teens miles per gallon combined, with actual numbers varying by configuration and driving. In practice, expect roughly 13–15 mpg combined, depending on setup and conditions.
Official EPA estimates by configuration
EPA fuel-economy figures for the 6.6L gas engine in the Silverado 2500HD vary by cab, bed, drivetrain and other options. The ranges below reflect common configurations and provide a baseline for planning.
- 2WD with typical cab/bed setups: roughly 13–15 mpg combined.
- 2WD with Crew Cab and longer bed: roughly 14–15 mpg combined.
- 4WD configurations (Crew Cab, standard or longer bed): roughly 12–14 mpg combined.
For the exact figure for a specific build, check fueleconomy.gov for the model year, cab/bed combination, and drivetrain, or review the window sticker at purchase.
Notes on year-to-year variation
Fuel-economy ratings can shift slightly from year to year due to changes in gearing, tires, or other equipment. Always verify the exact rating for the precise configuration you plan to buy or own.
Driving habits and conditions that affect mpg
Fuel economy on a heavy-duty gas pickup like the Silverado 2500HD is heavily influenced by how it's used and driven. Weight, towing, terrain and driving style all play a major role.
- Payload and towing weight: Heavier loads reduce mpg compared with unloaded driving.
- Driving style: Aggressive acceleration and high speeds raise fuel use; smoother, steady speeds help.
- Terrain and elevation: Hills and mountainous routes typically lower mpg more than flat highways.
- Maintenance and engine condition: Clean air filters, proper spark plugs, and timely oil changes help preserve efficiency.
- Tire pressure and aerodynamics: Underinflated tires and roof racks or other drag add to fuel consumption.
In real-world use, mpg often falls short of EPA estimates, especially when towing or carrying heavy loads, though careful driving and good maintenance can improve efficiency.
Tips to maximize mpg with the 6.6L gas engine
Owners can take practical steps to improve efficiency without sacrificing capability.
- Keep tires inflated to the recommended pressure.
- Schedule regular maintenance, including air filters and spark plugs, per GM recommendations.
- Use steady, moderate speeds and cruise control on highways when appropriate.
- Minimize unnecessary weight in the truck bed and cab.
- Plan efficient trips and avoid stop-and-go driving when possible.
Following these practices can help push real-world mileage toward the upper end of the typical range while maintaining towing and payload capability.
Reality and notes for buyers
It's important to remember that the 6.6L gas V8 prioritizes power and payload capability. If maximizing highway fuel economy is a priority, Chevrolet also offers diesel (Duramax) variants in the 2500HD, which often deliver better highway efficiency when towing heavy loads, though they come with different upfront costs and maintenance considerations.
Summary
Overall, the 6.6L gas-equipped Chevy Silverado 2500HD typically delivers about 13–15 mpg combined, with exact numbers depending on configuration, drivetrain, and load. For precise figures, consult the exact model-year EPA rating or the vehicle’s window sticker, and temper expectations with real-world driving factors such as towing, payload, and driving conditions. Proper maintenance and smart driving practices can help you approach the upper end of the range.
