The 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 4WD with the 4.3L V6 engine gets 17 MPG combined. It’s important to understand this truck’s purpose before criticizing its fuel economy. It’s not made for fuel-sipping commutes. This Silverado is for a specific buyer: those on a budget who need a capable work truck and don’t prioritize the newest features or maximum towing. For these buyers, the V6 is the entry-level engine, and four-wheel drive provides essential capability for demanding work sites or winter driving. Fuel economy is less important than the initial price and dependability.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates show the Silverado’s fuel consumption in different conditions. The 15 MPG city rating reflects urban driving’s stop-and-go nature, where the truck’s weight and the V6’s modest low-end torque are drawbacks. Highway driving is slightly better, with a 20 MPG rating possible at consistent speeds. However, even small hills or headwinds will reduce that number quickly, especially with an empty truck bed. Keep in mind that the Silverado isn’t aerodynamic.

Annual fuel cost

Expect to spend $2,600 per year on fuel, according to EPA estimates. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with 55% in the city and 45% on the highway, using national average fuel prices. Changing gas prices and personal driving habits can significantly change this number. Frequent heavy towing or aggressive driving will increase your fuel costs. It’s also important to remember that the EPA’s estimates come from controlled testing, so real-world results will likely be different depending on how you drive.

Real-world expectations

Don’t expect excellent fuel economy. Consistent city driving might result in numbers closer to 13 MPG, especially with frequent acceleration and idling. Highway driving can reach 20 MPG in ideal conditions, but expect closer to 18 MPG on average, especially with passengers or cargo. Since this Silverado is often bought as a work truck, it often carries equipment and materials. Extra weight puts more strain on the engine, resulting in even lower MPG numbers.

How it compares

The fuel economy of the 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 4WD 4.3L V6 needs to be considered alongside similar trucks. The Ford F-150 with its base 3.3L V6 and four-wheel drive gets a slightly better 19 MPG combined. The Ram 1500 Classic, an older model often sold with the newer Ram 1500, has similar performance with its 3.6L V6, with an EPA-estimated 17 MPG combined with 4WD. Buyers of this Silverado usually prioritize price and capability over fuel efficiency, so a 1 or 2 MPG difference might not matter much, but larger differences can affect their decisions. If fuel economy is more important, the Silverado’s 2.7L turbocharged four-cylinder version gets a better 20 MPG combined in 4WD form. You can also review all Chevrolet fuel economy data to compare trucks against other Chevrolet models.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Gentle acceleration is important. Avoid sudden starts and stops. The 4.3L V6 works hardest when pushed hard. Smooth, gradual acceleration minimizes fuel use by keeping the engine within its best efficiency range. The 6-speed automatic transmission is set up for fuel economy to a degree, but the driver still controls the rate of acceleration.

Reduce extra weight. Remove any tools or equipment from the bed when they’re not needed. Extra weight has a big impact on fuel economy, especially in a truck. A clean bed means fewer trips to the gas station.

Keep tires properly inflated. Check tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended PSI as shown on the door jamb. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, making the engine work harder and use more fuel. This is especially important on heavy trucks like the Silverado.

Engage four-wheel drive only when you need it. Driving in 4WD on dry pavement increases fuel use because of the added friction and mechanical losses in the driveline. Only use it on slick or rough conditions to maximize efficiency in normal driving. Remember to compare SILVERADO MPG across all years to see if other model years offer better fuel economy for your driving.

Service the engine on schedule. Replacing dirty air filters and performing regular maintenance ensures the engine runs well. A well-maintained engine uses less fuel and produces fewer emissions.