The 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 4WD 2.7L 4-cyl gets 20 MPG combined, a number that raises eyebrows and invites questions. Is it good? Is it bad? It’s neither, really. It’s adequate, expected even, for a half-ton, four-wheel-drive pickup truck prioritizing capability over ultimate fuel economy. This isn’t the choice of drivers who want lower fuel costs; it’s the choice of those who need a truck bed, the security of four-wheel-drive, and prefer a more fuel-efficient engine to the traditional V8.

City and highway performance

The EPA breaks down the Silverado’s 2.7L fuel economy further, estimating 19 MPG in city driving and 22 MPG on the highway. The relatively narrow spread between these figures suggests the engine and 8-speed automatic transmission are optimized for consistent performance across various driving conditions. Stop-and-go traffic won’t tank your mileage compared to long freeway stretches like it might in less carefully calibrated powertrains. Owners running errands and managing local jobsites will find the city MPG surprisingly useful, while highway MPG offers the possibility of reasonable economy on cross-town runs. This speaks to the flexibility of the turbocharged four-cylinder engine, designed to deliver power when needed and reduce consumption when cruising.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 4WD 2.7L at $2,200. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Individual spending will vary depending on driving habits and local fuel costs, but the $2,200 provides a reasonable benchmark for budgeting. It represents the cost of balancing truck utility with reasonably economical daily use.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates are a good starting point, real-world fuel economy can differ. Factors like driving style, load weight, tire pressure, and weather conditions can all impact fuel consumption. Silverado owners who frequently tow or haul heavy loads will inevitably see a decrease in MPG, while those who prioritize smooth acceleration and consistent speeds may find they exceed the EPA estimates. The 2.7L turbo excels in delivering torque at low RPMs, which supports light-duty tasks with less strain on the engine, but pressing it hard for heavy towing demands will bring efficiency down.

How it compares

When cross-shopping, it’s important to look at the 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 4WD 2.7L in the context of its competitors, particularly the other engine options within the Silverado lineup. The 5.3L V8, for example, typically achieves around 17 MPG combined in 4WD configuration, making the 2.7L a clear winner for efficiency. Against other brands, the Ford F-150 with its 2.7L EcoBoost engine frequently gets closer to 20-21 MPG combined in 4×4 models, edging out the Silverado. Ram’s 1500 with the eTorque V6 hovers around 20 MPG combined as well, creating a very tight competitive landscape. For buyers determined to find the most efficient truck of the bunch, it is important to look at all Chevrolet fuel economy data and see how competitors are doing.

Consider a potential buyer primarily interested in a truck that is capable but also wants the best city mileage possible for frequent trips within the city. For them the 2.7L is a good choice over the V8. It’s about daily efficiency. If they frequently tow more than say 5,000 lbs, it may be better to check SILVERADO MPG across all years and compare other models.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Gentle acceleration and consistent speeds are key to maximizing fuel economy in the 2.7L Silverado. The turbocharger offers a surge of power when needed, but avoiding hard acceleration minimizes fuel consumption. Use cruise control on the highway to maintain a steady speed and prevent unnecessary fluctuations in fuel usage.

Regular maintenance is important for optimal fuel efficiency. Ensure your tires are properly inflated to the recommended pressure, as low tire pressure increases rolling resistance and reduces MPG, and keep up with scheduled oil changes and air filter replacements to ensure the engine is running smoothly and efficiently.

Reduce unnecessary weight in the truck bed. Hauling around extra tools or equipment adds load to the vehicle, decreasing fuel economy. Only carry what you need for each specific trip and avoid using the Silverado as a mobile storage unit.

Consider the impact of aftermarket modifications which can quickly turn the 2.7L into a gas hungry machine. Larger, more aggressive tires look great and add offroad cred, but they also increase rolling resistance and weight. Similarly, lift kits alter aerodynamics, potentially reducing highway MPG.