Is Silverado 1500 good on gas?
Yes, the Silverado 1500 can be reasonably efficient for a full-size pickup, especially with the 2.7L turbo gasoline engine or the 3.0L Duramax diesel. Larger V8 options tend to drink more fuel. Real-world mileage varies with drivetrain, cab/bed setup, payload, and towing.
Engine options and EPA estimates
The following figures reflect common configurations and EPA estimates; actual mpg depends on year, trim, tires, drivetrain, and how the truck is equipped.
- 2.7L Turbo gasoline engine (2WD): roughly 23 mpg combined; with 4WD, around 21–22 mpg combined.
- 3.0L Duramax diesel (2WD): roughly 26–28 mpg combined in typical configurations; with 4WD, around 24–26 mpg combined.
- 5.3L V8 gasoline (2WD): roughly 18–20 mpg combined; with 4WD, around 17–19 mpg combined.
- 6.2L V8 gasoline (2WD): roughly 17–19 mpg combined; with 4WD, around 16–18 mpg combined.
In short, the best mileage among Silverado 1500 configurations tends to come from the smaller turbo or the diesel, while the larger V8s are notably less efficient. Always check the EPA ratings for your exact build and consider real-world driving conditions when estimating fuel costs.
Real-world performance and factors that matter
EPA estimates are a starting point, but real-world fuel economy can differ significantly. The following factors commonly influence actual mileage on a Silverado 1500:
- Payload and towing: Carrying heavy loads or towing reduces mpg versus light-duty use.
- Drivetrain: Two-wheel drive (2WD) generally delivers better fuel economy than four-wheel drive (4WD).
- Driving style and conditions: Aggressive acceleration, high speeds, and city driving lower mpg; steady highway cruising improves it.
- Tire choice and inflation: Low tire pressure or larger-than-stock tires increase rolling resistance and reduce efficiency.
- Environment and grade: Warm, flat highway driving is more efficient than hilly, windy, or extremely cold conditions.
Understanding these factors helps buyers set realistic expectations for fuel economy beyond the official numbers.
Practical tips to maximize mpg
To squeeze the most efficiency from a Silverado 1500, consider these practical steps tailored to typical configurations:
- Keep tires inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended pressure.
- Use the Tow/Haul mode when towing to optimize shifting and engine torque delivery.
- Lighten the load and remove unnecessary accessories or roof racks when not needed.
- Avoid prolonged idling and plan routes to minimize stop-and-go driving.
- Drive at steady speeds on highways and use cruise control when appropriate.
Following these practices can yield noticeable gains in real-world fuel economy across Silverado 1500 configurations.
Summary
The Silverado 1500 offers a range of powertrains with varying fuel economy. The 2.7L turbo and the 3.0L Duramax diesel are the most efficient options, while the 5.3L and 6.2L V8s consume more fuel, especially with 4WD or heavy payloads. Real-world mileage depends on drivetrain, usage, and driving habits. For buyers prioritizing gas mileage, aim for a 2WD setup with the turbo or the diesel, maintain proper tire pressure, and minimize heavy towing when possible. Always verify current EPA ratings for your exact configuration and test-drive to gauge expected mileage in real-world conditions.
