The 2017 Chevrolet Silverado K15 4WD with the 5.3L V8 gets 18 MPG combined. While a Prius owner might be shocked by this number, Silverado buyers often see it as a trade-off. This isn’t a vehicle meant for efficient grocery runs, but it is a reliable workhorse, a weekend adventurer, a lifestyle enabler. The K1500 with four-wheel drive and the strong 5.3L is for those who need to tow a boat, haul equipment, navigate rough terrain, or simply want the commanding presence of a full-size truck. Fuel economy is still a consideration, but capability and durability take priority.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2017 Silverado K15 4WD 5.3L are 16 MPG in the city and 22 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects stop-and-go driving where the truck’s weight and engine size are a disadvantage. Expect lower numbers with frequent heavy traffic or aggressive driving. The highway figure is more achievable on long, steady trips. The six-speed automatic transmission helps the engine maintain an efficient RPM at cruising speed, but the aerodynamic profile of a pickup truck is always a disadvantage.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for this Silverado configuration is $2,450. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. This is just an estimate. Your actual fuel costs will vary based on your driving, the type of driving you do, and the price of gasoline in your area. However, this provides a baseline to understand potential ownership costs.

Real-world expectations

The EPA provides a standardized benchmark, but real-world fuel economy can vary. Silverado owners have reported slightly below the EPA estimates, particularly in combined driving. Towing, hauling, and off-road driving will greatly reduce fuel efficiency. The truck’s age and condition also matter. Proper maintenance, including regular oil changes and tire inflation, can help maintain fuel economy. Driving style is also important. Avoiding quick acceleration and maintaining a steady speed can improve economy.

How it compares

The 2017 Silverado K15 4WD 5.3L performs around the middle of its class of full-size trucks. A similar Ford F-150 with the 5.0L V8 often gets similar or slightly better numbers, around 17 MPG combined. Ram 1500s with the 5.7L Hemi V8 are typically in the same range. The Toyota Tundra, with its less fuel-efficient engine, usually gets around 15 MPG combined. These comparisons are important in the truck-buying process. Buyers are looking for the best balance of capability, reliability, and fuel economy. For more information, read SILVERADO MPG across all years.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Gentle acceleration will save fuel. The 5.3L V8 has plenty of torque, so avoid pressing hard on the gas pedal. Smooth, steady acceleration will help the engine stay in its most efficient range. The more you accelerate, the more fuel you use.

Tire pressure is critical. Inflate your tires to the manufacturer’s recommended pressure, found on the sticker inside the driver’s side door jamb. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance and reduce fuel economy. Check tire pressure regularly, especially when the temperature changes.

Minimize idling. Modern engines are efficient when running, but idling wastes fuel. If you expect to be stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine to save some fuel.

Use cruise control. On long highway drives, cruise control maintains a consistent speed. This helps reduce unnecessary acceleration and deceleration, leading to better fuel economy compared to manually controlling the throttle. Be mindful of road conditions and avoid using cruise control in heavy traffic or bad weather.

Keep up with maintenance. A maintained vehicle runs more efficiently. Regular oil changes, air filter replacements, and tune-ups ensure the engine runs at its peak. Make sure to grease all chassis zerk fittings so that your truck is running optimally. Poor maintenance can reduce fuel economy and cause mechanical issues. For more general data, read all Chevrolet fuel economy data.