17 MPG combined won’t win any fuel economy awards, but it’s what you get with a 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 4WD Trail Boss with the 6.2L V8. This isn’t a truck for commuting or grocery runs. It’s a truck built to tackle trails and look aggressive. Buyers want capability and a head-turning presence more than saving gas. The 6.2L V8 is the best engine available for the Silverado 1500. The Trail Boss trim includes a factory lift and other off-road features. Fuel efficiency isn’t the main concern.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2021 Silverado Trail Boss 6.2L at 15 MPG in the city and 19 MPG on the highway. These numbers show the realities of its engine and intended use. The 6.2L V8, producing 420 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque, needs fuel. The 10-speed automatic transmission helps by offering a wide range of ratios to optimize efficiency at various speeds, but moving a lifted, four-wheel-drive truck with oversized tires requires energy. City driving, with its stop-and-go nature and frequent idling, makes fuel consumption worse. Highway driving is better, but the truck’s shape and rolling resistance still affect it.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 4WD Trail Boss 6.2L at $3,400. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with 55% in the city and 45% on the highway. The calculation uses national average fuel prices, which change, so your costs may vary. However, $3,400 is a good way to understand the financial commitment of owning this truck. Note the EPA’s number assumes regular unleaded fuel, which the vehicle can use, but premium fuel offers the best performance. Premium could increase that annual cost.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standard rating, fuel economy often differs in the real world. Driving style, terrain, weather, and cargo weight affect fuel consumption. Aggressive acceleration, off-roading, and heavy loads will all decrease MPG. A gentle driving style and highway miles might give slightly better results. Owners report different MPG numbers depending on how they drive, but achieving the EPA estimates requires effort and a light foot.

How it compares

The Silverado Trail Boss 6.2L is near the bottom for fuel efficiency among full-size pickups. A comparable Ford F-150 Raptor gets slightly better fuel economy, rated at 15 MPG city, 18 MPG highway, and 16 MPG combined. A Ram 1500 Rebel with the 5.7L Hemi V8 and eTorque mild-hybrid system gets around 17 MPG combined. Even within the Silverado lineup, choosing the 2.7L turbocharged four-cylinder engine results in 20 MPG combined. For buyers considering a dedicated off-road truck, the Jeep Gladiator Rubicon lands around 19 MPG combined. Comparing the Trail Boss to the SILVERADO MPG across all years shows how choosing the bigger engine affects fuel usage. Highlighting the trade-offs in selecting a high-performance, off-road vehicle shows a sacrifice many accept. All all Chevrolet fuel economy data can be found on our site.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The 2021 Silverado Trail Boss 6.2L isn’t fuel-efficient, but owners can minimize fuel consumption. Gradual acceleration and watching traffic can reduce fuel burned. Avoid hard braking and maintain a consistent speed when possible.

Proper maintenance is important. Ensuring the tires are inflated, the engine is tuned, and the air filter is clean can improve fuel economy. Using the recommended oil and following the factory maintenance schedule will help the engine run well.

Remove extra weight in the truck bed. Removing unnecessary tools, equipment, or cargo can reduce the load on the engine and improve MPG. Every pound counts, so carry only what you need. Empty the truck bed.

Consider using the Silverado’s drive mode selector. “Off-Road” mode improves traction on uneven terrain, “Auto” or “2WD” (if appropriate) will offer better fuel efficiency on paved roads. Know the modes and choose the best for the conditions.

Consolidate trips where possible. Combining errands can save fuel by reducing cold starts, which use more fuel. Plan your routes to minimize stop-and-go driving.