15 MPG combined, that’s the figure for the 2022 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 4WD with mud-terrain tires and the 5.3L V8, and that requires immediate context. This isn’t a hybrid commuter. It’s a purpose-built truck, made for buyers who prioritize off-road capability and reliability over saving money at the pump. It’s a compromise many are willing to make for the offered capability.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for this Silverado configuration are 14 MPG in the city and 17 MPG on the highway. The small overall difference between city and highway figures suggests this truck’s fuel economy is more influenced by its weight, rolling resistance (primarily from the aggressive tires), and aerodynamic profile than by stop-and-go traffic alone. The 10-speed automatic transmission helps optimize engine RPMs at various speeds, but it can only do so much against the realities of a large displacement engine and substantial off-road hardware. The 5.3L V8 is a proven workhorse that balances power and efficiency within its limitations, but physics dictate the results.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates an annual fuel cost of $2,900 for this Silverado. This is calculated assuming 15,000 miles of driving per year and using the national average fuel price at the time of the EPA’s testing. Your actual fuel costs will vary depending on how many miles you drive and current gasoline prices in your area. It’s a data point to consider, especially for buyers who drive a lot, and should be compared against other vehicles that meet your needs because real-world fuel prices fluctuate.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standardized testing environment, real-world fuel economy for this Silverado can change a lot. Expect the 15 MPG combined to be a best-case scenario if you’re doing mostly highway driving, unloaded. Towing, hauling heavy loads, aggressive driving, and frequent off-road trips will all lower the MPG number, potentially below 10 MPG. Payload capacity, a key consideration for truck buyers, heavily impacts fuel usage. Remember that those mud-terrain tires, while excellent off-road, create more rolling resistance on pavement, reducing overall MPG compared to standard all-season tires.

How it compares

Compared to other full-size trucks, the 2022 Silverado Mud Terrain Tires 4WD 5.3L 8-cyl is near the bottom of the fuel economy ratings. A 2022 Ford F-150 with the 2.7L EcoBoost V6 can achieve around 22 MPG combined. Ram 1500 models equipped with the eTorque 3.6L V6 can reach up to 23 MPG combined. Even other Silverado trims using the 2.7L turbo engine get better efficiency, averaging around 19 MPG combined. However, these more efficient trucks often sacrifice some of the off-road capability and V8 sound that Silverado mud-terrain buyers specifically seek. For customers who need mud-terrain tires, the comparison point should be against other trucks with similar tires, such as a Toyota Tundra TRD Pro that also gets 15 MPG. Explore SILVERADO MPG across all years.

Tips to maximize efficiency

While this Silverado isn’t built for maximum less gas, there are still steps you can take to improve your mileage. Ensure your tires are inflated to the pressure recommended on the door jamb. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance and decrease fuel efficiency. You may want to use lower tire pressures when off-roading for better traction, but be sure to reinflate them when you get back on the road.

Drive smoothly and avoid aggressive acceleration or braking. The 5.3L V8 delivers plenty of power, but using it excessively will quickly deplete your fuel tank. Gentle acceleration and anticipating traffic flow can make a significant difference.

Minimize idling. Modern engines do not need to warm up for extended periods. If you’re going to be stopped for more than a minute, turn the engine off. A short period of idling can negate the benefits of all the miles you carefully drove.

Reduce unnecessary weight. Hauling around extra cargo in the bed of the truck will negatively impact fuel economy. Only carry what you need and remove any unnecessary items. Also, consider removing roof racks or other accessories when they are not being used, as they can increase aerodynamic drag.

Consider using cruise control on the highway. Maintaining a constant speed can help prevent unnecessary acceleration and deceleration, optimizing fuel efficiency. Be aware of the speed limit and drive accordingly because fuel economy often decreases over 65 MPH. See all Chevrolet fuel economy data to compare models.