Buyers of the 2025 Chevrolet Silverado equipped with mud-terrain tires, four-wheel drive, and the 3.0L Duramax diesel probably won’t prioritize 23 MPG combined. This is not a Prius. This is a truck built for capability: towing, hauling, and off-roading are the priorities. Fuel economy is a factor to be managed.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the Silverado’s fuel economy at 21 MPG in the city and 24 MPG on the highway. Stop-and-go driving versus consistent cruising speeds explain these figures. The engine consumes more fuel in urban environments because it spends more time idling and accelerating. The Silverado uses its 10-speed automatic transmission on the highway to maintain optimal engine speeds, resulting in slightly improved fuel efficiency.

Mud-terrain tires add significant rolling resistance compared to highway tires, impacting both city and highway numbers. Drivers who spend most of their time on the highway may achieve figures closer to the EPA estimate. Those mostly in urban settings should anticipate results closer to 21 MPG, maybe even a bit lower.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA pegs the annual fuel cost for the 2025 Chevrolet Silverado Mud Terrain Tires 4WD 3.0L 6-cyl at $2,400. This is calculated based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Your actual fuel costs may vary depending on your driving habits, local diesel prices, and the specific conditions in which you operate the truck. Someone who frequently tows heavy loads or travels off-road will likely exceed this estimate. To view all Chevrolet fuel economy data, see our detailed make and model pages.

Real-world expectations

The EPA provides a standardized benchmark, and understanding real-world expectations is critical. Factors like driving style, terrain, and weather conditions can significantly influence fuel economy. Aggressive acceleration, frequent braking, and sustained high speeds will all reduce MPG. Mud-terrain tires create more rolling resistance than other tire types, diminishing fuel economy on paved roads. Temperatures below 20 degrees can also create problems for diesel engines. Drivers should also consider load. Carrying heavy cargo or towing will noticeably decrease fuel efficiency.

Expect a range of results, potentially dipping below the EPA estimates in demanding situations and occasionally exceeding them during relaxed highway driving.

How it compares

The Silverado’s mpg holds its own in the realm of full-size, four-wheel-drive trucks equipped for off-road adventures. A comparable Ford F-150 with the 3.5L EcoBoost V6 and four-wheel drive achieves around 20 MPG combined. Ram 1500 models equipped with four-wheel drive and the 5.7L HEMI V8 fare similarly. The Toyota Tundra, with its i-FORCE 3.5L Twin-Turbo V6 is rated around 19 MPG combined with four-wheel drive. The Silverado’s 3.0L Duramax diesel engine offers a fuel economy advantage over these gasoline-powered rivals, and that translates to fewer trips to the pump for those who use their trucks for long-distance travel or work. For data on SILVERADO MPG across all years, check our truck database.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Maintain a steady speed while highway driving. Avoid sudden acceleration or braking because they consume extra fuel. Anticipate traffic flow and maintain a safe distance, allowing you to coast when possible. Using cruise control on level stretches of highway can help maintain consistent speed and improve fuel economy.

Ensure your Silverado’s tires are properly inflated to the recommended pressure. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, decreasing fuel economy. Check tire pressure regularly, especially before long trips. Tire pressure can change with variations in outside temperature, so check often if possible.

Minimize idling time. If you are stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. Modern vehicles are designed to restart quickly, and reducing idling can save a noticeable amount of fuel over time. Also make sure to only warm up the vehicle for a minute or two even in freezing conditions. The fuel waste from extended idling can add up.

Reduce aerodynamic drag by removing unnecessary items from the truck bed or roof rack. Carrying extra weight or creating wind resistance decreases fuel efficiency. Regularly clean the bed and remove roof racks if they are not needed. A tonneau cover can also smooth airflow in the bed.

Service your vehicle according to Chevrolet’s recommended maintenance schedule. Regular oil changes, air filter replacements, and tune-ups ensure your engine runs efficiently. Addressing maintenance issues promptly can prevent them from negatively impacting fuel economy.