The 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 4WD TrailBoss with the 4.3L V6 gets 16 MPG combined. This isn’t a truck for those seeking the best gas mileage. It’s a workhorse designed for those who prioritize off-road capability and strong styling over fuel efficiency. Understanding this trade-off is important for the TrailBoss buyer, someone who needs a truck that can handle tough terrain and isn’t overly concerned with trips to the gas station.

City and highway performance

The TrailBoss’s fuel economy breaks down to 14 MPG in the city and 18 MPG on the highway. The city figure highlights the impact of stop-and-go traffic on a heavy truck with a naturally aspirated engine. You’ll see those numbers plummet further when hauling materials. On the open road, the 6-speed automatic transmission helps to somewhat mitigate the inherent inefficiency, allowing the engine to cruise at lower RPMs. However, the truck’s aerodynamics, or lack thereof, and hefty tires continue to be major drags on fuel consumption at higher speeds. Consider these figures a ceiling rather than a floor, especially if you drive aggressively.

Annual fuel cost

Owning a 2020 Silverado TrailBoss 4WD 4.3L comes with an EPA-estimated annual fuel cost of $2,750. This figure is calculated based on driving 15,000 miles per year, using a blend of city and highway driving, and factoring in the national average fuel prices prevailing at the time of calculation. It’s a useful benchmark, but remember that your actual fuel expenses may vary significantly depending on your driving habits, location, and prevailing gasoline prices. Aggressive driving, frequent towing, and living in an area with higher fuel costs will all increase that number.

Real-world expectations

Don’t expect to consistently match the EPA estimates in real-world driving. The TrailBoss’s aggressive tires and raised suspension create more wind resistance than a standard Silverado, impacting fuel economy. The 4.3L V6 engine, while dependable, needs to work hard to move the truck’s weight, particularly when accelerating or climbing hills. Most owners report seeing figures slightly below the EPA estimates, especially those who spend a significant amount of time off-road or use the truck for heavy-duty tasks. Carefully tracking your fuel consumption with each fill-up is the only way to understand your own true cost-per-mile.

How it compares

The 2020 Silverado TrailBoss 4WD’s fuel economy lags behind some of its competitors. For example, a comparable 2020 Ford F-150 with the 2.7L EcoBoost V6 and 4WD achieves around 20 MPG combined. Even the Ram 1500, known for its comfort and ride quality, manages slightly better figures with its available eTorque mild-hybrid system. The Toyota Tundra, while renowned for reliability, offers similar fuel economy to the TrailBoss with its V8 engine. Choosing the TrailBoss is therefore a conscious decision to sacrifice some fuel efficiency for its specialized off-road equipment and unique styling. Buyers can review all Chevrolet fuel economy data to put this model in context.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Resist the urge to accelerate quickly. The 4.3L V6 works hardest when pushed to its limits, and aggressive acceleration significantly impacts fuel consumption. Instead, aim for smooth and gradual acceleration, allowing the engine to build momentum without excessive strain. Planning your routes to avoid unnecessary stops and starts also contributes to better mileage.

Maintain proper tire inflation. The TrailBoss’s knobby tires are designed for off-road traction, but they also create more rolling resistance than standard highway tires. Ensuring that your tires are inflated to the recommended pressure reduces this resistance and can improve fuel economy by a small but noticeable margin. Check your tire pressure regularly, especially during temperature changes.

Reduce unnecessary weight. The heavier the truck, the more fuel it consumes. Remove any unnecessary items from the bed and cab to lighten the load. Every pound counts, especially when combined with the truck’s already substantial weight. Think about removing any cargo that you only use occasionally.

Be mindful of your speed on the highway. Aerodynamic drag increases exponentially with speed. Driving at a consistent and slightly lower speed (65 mph rather than 75 mph, for example) can significantly reduce fuel consumption on long trips. Avoid sudden bursts of speed when overtaking, and engage cruise control when appropriate.

Consider driving in 2WD when off-road capability isn’t needed. The 4WD system adds weight and drivetrain loss, both of which reduce fuel economy. Unless you’re facing challenging terrain, keep the truck in 2WD for better efficiency. Remember to check SILVERADO MPG across all years to understand how your TrailBoss compares its stablemates over time.