How many miles per gallon does a Chevy Silverado 3500 diesel get?
In general, the Silverado 3500HD with the Duramax 6.6L Turbo-Diesel delivers about 12–16 miles per gallon combined, with higher highway efficiency and lower city mileage. Exact numbers depend on drivetrain, cab/bed configuration, towing/payload, and driving conditions.
Engine and drivetrain basics
The Silverado 3500HD diesel uses a Duramax 6.6L Turbo-Diesel V8 paired with an Allison 10-speed automatic transmission. This setup prioritizes torque for heavy towing, which influences fuel economy. Fuel economy varies by model year and configuration, so refer to official ratings for your exact build.
What affects the MPG of the Silverado 3500HD Duramax
Several factors influence efficiency more than in lighter pickups. Understanding these can help set realistic expectations for fuel economy.
- Drivetrain: 2WD typically offers better mpg than 4WD due to lower drivetrain losses.
- Payload and towing: Heavier loads increase engine load and reduce efficiency.
- Cab configuration and bed length: Crew cabs and longer beds add weight and affect aerodynamics, impacting mileage.
- Model year and tuning: Minor changes in engines or transmissions can shift EPA numbers slightly.
- Terrain and driving habits: Stop-and-go city driving drains mpg; steady highway cruising is more efficient.
These variables mean your real-world mpg will vary. For precise figures, check the EPA ratings for your exact year, trim, and configuration or consult GM’s official data.
Typical MPG ranges by configuration
Here are representative ranges based on common factory configurations. Use these as a guideline and verify your exact numbers for the precise setup.
- 2WD with standard cab and bed: roughly 13–16 mpg combined; highway may approach 18–21 mpg under favorable conditions.
- 4WD with standard cab and bed: roughly 12–15 mpg combined; highway figures often in the 17–20 mpg range.
- Heavy towing or high payload: combined mpg commonly drops into the low-teens or even single digits under strenuous conditions.
To confirm your exact numbers, input your year, trim, drivetrain, cab style, and bed length into the EPA's Fuel Economy website or review the official window sticker for your build. Real-world results will also vary with towing and driving style.
How to verify exact EPA ratings for your build
EPA ratings are published per configuration. Use the EPA’s Fuel Economy site and GM’s official data to confirm the precise rating for your year, trim, drivetrain, and body configuration. Cross-reference owner reports for real-world averages, especially if you tow frequently.
Tips to maximize diesel mpg
Practical steps can help you squeeze more miles per gallon: keep tires inflated to recommended pressures, minimize payload when possible, plan efficient routes, use cruise control on highways, and perform regular maintenance (air filter, fuel system checks, oil changes). Consistent maintenance and mindful driving yield the best results from a Duramax-powered Silverado 3500HD.
Summary
The Chevy Silverado 3500HD with the Duramax diesel generally delivers about 12–16 mpg combined, with highway performance typically higher and city driving lower. Exact figures depend on drivetrain (2WD vs 4WD), cab/bed configuration, towing/payload, and driving conditions. For precise numbers, consult the EPA ratings for your specific build and corroborate with real-world driving data.
