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What is the gas mileage on a Chevy Silverado 2500 HD?

Gas mileage for the Chevy Silverado 2500HD with a gasoline engine is typically in the low- to mid-teens in combined driving, varying by configuration; expect roughly 13-15 mpg in city driving and 17-21 mpg on the highway, depending on 2WD vs 4WD and model year.

How fuel economy is measured for a heavy-duty pickup

The Silverado 2500HD is a heavy-duty work truck designed for towing and payload capacity. Its fuel economy labels reflect EPA testing that accounts for engine choice, drivetrain, cab/bed configuration, and tires. Real-world results can differ significantly from laboratory estimates due to load, terrain, and driving style.

Engine options and mpg estimates

Gasoline 6.6L V8

Note: EPA estimates vary by year and configuration; the following numbers reflect recent model years (2020-2025) with two-wheel drive (2WD) and four-wheel drive (4WD).

2WD (gasoline 6.6L V8): 13-15 mpg city, 18-21 mpg highway; combined around 15-17 mpg.

4WD (gasoline 6.6L V8): 12-14 mpg city, 17-19 mpg highway; combined around 14-16 mpg.

Real-world mileage varies with payload, towing, terrain, tire size, and driving style, so individual results may fall outside these ranges.

Context: gasoline vs diesel (for reference)

Diesel versions of the Silverado 2500HD generally deliver better highway efficiency and different towing characteristics. The following figures are provided for context and are not a replacement for gasoline-specific numbers.

Diesel (Duramax) 2WD: higher highway mpg and potentially lower city mpg compared with gasoline.

Diesel (Duramax) 4WD: similar trend with improved highway efficiency, depending on gearing and load.

For an exact comparison, consult EPA fuel economy data for the specific model year, cab configuration, bed length, axle ratio, and drive layout you’re considering.

Real-world mileage and factors that affect it

Fuel economy for the Silverado 2500HD with a gasoline engine is influenced by how the truck is used. Payload and towing drive cycles can dramatically affect mpg. Terrain, weather, tire type and pressure, and driving habits (accelerating gently, maintaining steady speeds, and minimizing idling) can shift mileage toward either end of the EPA estimates.

Payload and towing: Heavier loads reduce mpg; the truck is optimized for capability, not fuel economy.

Terrain and driving style: Hills, stop-and-go driving, and aggressive acceleration lower mpg; steady highway driving improves it.

Tire choice and condition: Properly inflated, low-rolling-resistance tires help economy slightly.

Overall, real-world mileage for the gasoline Silverado 2500HD typically sits in the mid-teens, with occasional improvements on long, light-tow highway trips and reductions when towing or climbing grades.

What to look for when researching mileage

To get exact numbers for a specific configuration—year, cab style, bed length, axle ratio, and driveline—check the EPA’s fuel economy data for that exact setup and model year. GM’s official estimates and owner experiences can also provide useful context for how numbers translate to everyday use.

Summary

The Silverado 2500HD with a gasoline engine offers solid capability at the cost of fuel economy relative to lighter-duty pickups. Expect EPA-based estimates in the mid-teens overall, with city driving typically in the low to mid-teens and highway driving in the high teens to low twenties, depending on drivetrain and year. For precise numbers, reference the EPA’s official ratings for your exact configuration and model year.

What is the difference between 6.6 L Duramax and 6.6 L gas?

The primary differences are that the 6.6L Duramax diesel provides significantly more torque for heavy towing and better fuel efficiency, especially when hauling, while the 6.6L gas V8 has a lower upfront cost, potentially lower maintenance costs, and is generally a better choice for lighter towing and everyday driving. The gas engine has higher horsepower but much less torque, while the diesel is slower off the line without a load but much more capable with one.
This video compares the performance and features of the 6.6L Duramax diesel and 6.6L gas V8 engines in a Chevy Silverado HD: 58sJB ReviewsYouTube · Sep 14, 2021

Feature	6.6L Duramax Diesel	6.6L Gas V8
Torque	Much higher (e.g., 910-975 lb-ft)	Lower (e.g., 464 lb-ft)
Horsepower	Higher (e.g., 445-470 hp)	Lower (e.g., 401 hp)
Towing/Hauling	Superior due to high torque	Capable for moderate loads
Fuel Efficiency	Better, especially when towing or under load	Lower, especially when towing
Upfront Cost	Higher (costs thousands more)	Lower
Maintenance	Higher potential costs, but can last longer	Lower potential costs
Performance	Effortless acceleration and grade climbing when loaded	Good for everyday driving, but slower with a load
Noise	Noisier, but modern trucks have good cabin insulation	Quieter

You frequently tow heavy loads or need maximum towing capacity.
You do a lot of long-distance highway driving, as it offers better fuel economy in those scenarios.
You prefer the effortless pulling power and performance under load.

Choose the 6.6L Gas V8 if:

Your towing needs are occasional and involve lighter loads.
Your budget is a primary concern, as the upfront cost is significantly lower.
You prioritize lower potential maintenance costs.
You use your truck primarily for daily driving tasks.

This video explains the differences in fuel economy and performance between the 6.6L Duramax diesel and the 6.6L gas V8: 1mJB ReviewsYouTube · Jul 27, 2024

Is the Chevy 2500 HD gas better than the diesel?

A Chevy 2500 HD gas engine is better for those with lighter workloads and lower upfront costs, offering cheaper maintenance and better acceleration, while a diesel engine is superior for heavy towing and long distances, providing much more torque, better fuel efficiency under load, and longer engine life. The choice depends on your specific needs: if you frequently haul heavy loads or drive long distances, the diesel is the more capable and potentially cost-effective long-term choice despite its higher initial price. If your needs are less demanding, the gas version is a more budget-friendly option.

Chevy 2500 HD gas vs. diesel
This video explains the difference between a gas and diesel engine in a Chevy Silverado 2500 HD: 1mTruck MasterYouTube · Sep 4, 2025

Feature	Gas Engine	Diesel Engine
Performance	Better acceleration and horsepower on the road.	Significantly more torque, which is ideal for heavy towing and hauling.
Towing & Hauling	Sufficient for occasional and lighter loads.	Superior for heavy-duty towing and hauling, with better performance under load.
Fuel Efficiency	Lower fuel economy, especially when towing.	Better fuel efficiency, especially under heavy load and for long-distance driving.
Upfront Cost	Lower initial purchase price.	Significantly higher initial purchase price.
Maintenance & Repairs	Routine maintenance is typically less expensive.	More expensive routine maintenance and potential for higher repair costs, particularly for major components.
Other Factors	More readily available fuel and service stations.	Requires Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF), which is an added cost and maintenance consideration.
Best For	General use, light hauling, and occasional towing.	Frequent heavy towing, long-distance driving, and work-related applications.

How many miles per gallon does a Chevy Silverado 2500 HD get?

The Chevy 2500 HD's MPG varies by model year and configuration, with many 2024 models getting around 16-18 mpg in the city and 18-21 mpg on the highway, while 2025 models are estimated to get 13-14 mpg city and 17-18 mpg highway. Fuel efficiency depends on factors like the engine (gas vs. diesel), trim level, and driving conditions, such as towing or carrying heavy loads. Official EPA ratings are not provided for heavy-duty trucks.

You can watch this video to learn about the 2024 Chevy Silverado HD's MPG: 48sGetty's GarageYouTube · Oct 30, 2025
2024 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 HD

Gas Engine:
- City: 16-18 mpg
- Highway: 18-21 mpg
Diesel Engine:
- City: 16 mpg
- Highway: 20 mpg

2025 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 HD

Estimated MPG:
- City: 13-14 mpg
- Highway: 17-18 mpg

Key factors affecting fuel economy

Engine: Diesel engines often provide better fuel economy, especially when towing.
Driving conditions: Towing a heavy load or driving in stop-and-go traffic will reduce fuel efficiency.
Towing: When towing, diesel engines tend to hold their efficiency better than gas engines.

This video explains the fuel economy of the 2025 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 HD Duramax: 59sAutoMotive InquiriesYouTube · Oct 12, 2025

How do you get 30 MPG on a Duramax?

General Tips for Better MPG

Don't let your truck idle for long periods of time if you can help it. Idling burns a lot of fuel and your gas mileage will take a hit.
Don't be heavy on the gas.
Watch your tire pressure.
Service and maintain your Duramax truck regularly.

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.