20 MPG combined won’t set any records, but for the 2024 Chevrolet Silverado 2WD with the 2.7L turbo four-cylinder, it’s a solid balance of capability and efficiency for a specific type of truck buyer. This isn’t the Silverado for heavy-duty towing or serious off-roading. This is the work truck, the fleet vehicle, the weekend DIY warrior’s companion. It’s designed to be affordable to buy and own, and relatively frugal at the pump, while still offering the utility a pickup provides.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates are 18 MPG in the city and 22 MPG on the highway. These numbers reflect the eight-speed automatic transmission’s ability to keep the engine in its sweet spot, balancing torque and fuel consumption. City driving will be less efficient due to stop-and-go traffic and lower average speeds, while highway driving allows the engine to cruise more efficiently. The fairly narrow gap between city and highway MPG indicates decent real-world performance. The engine’s turbocharging helps maintain fuel economy during highway driving.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the estimated annual fuel cost for this Silverado configuration is $2,200. This calculation is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, the EPA’s combined MPG figure, and the national average fuel price. Remember that this is an estimate, and your actual fuel costs may vary depending on your driving habits, the type of fuel you use, and local fuel prices. For example, if you drive significantly more than 15,000 miles a year, or if fuel prices in your area are higher than the national average, your annual fuel cost will be higher. Likewise, careful driving could lower the annual fuel bill.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a good baseline, real-world fuel economy often varies. Factors like driving style, terrain, and payload can significantly impact the MPG you achieve. If you frequently haul heavy loads or drive aggressively, expect your fuel economy to be lower than the EPA estimates. If you drive conservatively and primarily on flat, open roads, you may be able to exceed the EPA numbers. Some drivers who meticulously track their fuel consumption and adjust their driving style see the most benefit. Check online forums and owner reviews for crowdsourced data on SILVERADO MPG across all years.

How it compares

The key competitor for this Silverado configuration is the Ford F-150. A comparable 2024 F-150 with the 2.7L EcoBoost V6 offers an EPA-estimated 20 MPG combined, the same as the Silverado’s performance. The RAM 1500, with its 3.6L eTorque V6, achieves a similar 20 MPG combined. This shows that within the half-ton, two-wheel-drive truck segment, these trucks are basically tied in terms of fuel efficiency among equivalent trims and engines. The Toyota Tundra stands apart, with the base SR trim achieving only 19 MPG combined with its twin-turbo V6, which gives the Chevy a slight advantage over some competitors. For those who are fuel-conscious, the Chevy performs similarly to its rivals.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Gentle acceleration and braking are crucial for maximizing fuel efficiency in any vehicle, but it’s particularly beneficial for turbocharged engines like the Silverado’s 2.7L. Avoid aggressive starts and stops, as these actions use more fuel to get the vehicle up to speed or to brake. Instead, anticipate traffic conditions and gradually accelerate or decelerate to maintain a steady pace.

Proper tire inflation is important in maximizing fuel economy. Underinflated tires create more rolling resistance, which increases fuel consumption. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate your tires to the recommended pressure specified on the door placard or in the owner’s manual. The correct air pressure will allow your Silverado’s tires to work efficiently.

Minimize idling. Letting your engine idle for extended periods consumes fuel without covering any distance. If you are stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. The Silverado’s engine is designed to start quickly and reliably, so you won’t experience any inconvenience from turning it off and on.

Reduce unnecessary weight and aerodynamic drag. Excess weight increases the amount of energy required to move the vehicle, thereby reducing fuel economy. Remove any unnecessary items from the truck bed or cabin. And consider removing aftermarket accessories that create aerodynamic drag, such as roof racks or oversized tires, when they are not in use. The Silverado will move through the air more easily without these.

Use cruise control on the highway to maintain a consistent speed and avoid sudden acceleration or deceleration. This optimizes fuel efficiency by preventing unnecessary fluctuations in engine RPM. Be aware of varying terrain conditions when using cruise control. Consider disengaging while going uphill to better maintain fuel economy and save gas.