20 MPG combined is not going to win any awards, but for the person who needs a light-duty, half-ton pickup with genuine V8 power, the 2018 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Hybrid 2WD is a calculated compromise. This truck isn’t for hypermilers; it’s for contractors, tradespeople, and even weekend warriors who occasionally tow or haul and appreciate the capabilities this 5.3L hybrid powertrain brings. They prioritize capability and the traditional truck experience over outright fuel savings.

City and highway performance

The 2018 Silverado 1500 Hybrid achieves its 20 MPG combined rating with an EPA-estimated 18 MPG in the city and 24 MPG on the highway. That city figure is where many drivers will notice the advantages, with the hybrid system’s electric motor providing a boost at lower speeds, reducing the reliance on the gasoline engine during stop-and-go traffic. The 24 MPG highway figure is respectable for a V8-powered truck, especially when you consider its towing capacity. The eight-speed automatic transmission is tuned to optimize fuel efficiency, shifting gears and keeping the engine in its most efficient operating range. The hybrid system also allows for cylinder deactivation, where the engine runs on fewer cylinders when demand is low, further conserving fuel, particularly on long highway stretches.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates that the annual fuel cost for the 2018 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Hybrid 2WD comes in at $2,200. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with a mix of city and highway driving, and using the national average fuel price for regular unleaded gasoline at the time of the EPA’s testing. Of course, your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits, the type of roads you frequently drive on, and fluctuations in fuel prices. Someone who exclusively drives short distances in heavy traffic will likely see a higher annual cost, while someone who does mostly highway driving could potentially see a lower one.

Real-world expectations

While EPA ratings provide a standardized baseline, real-world fuel economy can vary significantly. Expect the 2018 Silverado 1500 Hybrid to deliver numbers close to the EPA estimates if you drive conservatively and avoid aggressive acceleration. Towing and hauling will obviously reduce fuel economy, potentially dipping into the low teens. A light foot on the accelerator, anticipating traffic flow, and minimizing idling are key to achieving the best possible mileage. Owners report that consistent highway driving, without heavy loads, often yields numbers that meet or even slightly exceed the EPA’s 24 MPG rating.

How it compares

The 2018 Silverado 1500 Hybrid’s fuel economy places it in an interesting position compared to its competitors. A similarly equipped 2018 Ford F-150 with the 2.7L EcoBoost V6 engine is rated at 20 MPG combined, mirroring the Silverado Hybrid. However, the Silverado Hybrid offers the strong power and sound of a V8, a key consideration for many truck buyers. The Ram 1500, using its Pentastar V6 engine, achieves similar figures but often requires opting for a higher trim level or adding expensive options to achieve comparable fuel economy. It is important to review all Chevrolet fuel economy data to understand the breadth of options available to Chevrolet buyers. For those seeking maximum efficiency, smaller trucks like the Toyota Tacoma (around 21 MPG combined for the 2WD V6) offer better fuel economy, but at the expense of towing capacity and overall capability. The 2018 Silverado Hybrid offers a sweet spot for those who desire V8 power but want to avoid the worst fuel economy penalties.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Take advantage of the Silverado Hybrid’s regenerative braking system. Smooth, gradual stops allow the system to recapture energy and recharge the battery, maximizing efficiency. Avoid hard braking whenever possible and anticipate traffic conditions to coast more frequently.

Reduce unnecessary weight in the truck bed. Every extra pound reduces fuel economy, so remove any tools, equipment, or cargo that you don’t need. This is especially true for the typical contractor who leaves hundreds of pounds worth of tools in the back.

Monitor your tire pressure religiously. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance and reduce fuel efficiency. Check your tires at least once a month and inflate them to the recommended pressure, typically found on a sticker located on the driver’s side doorjamb.

Plan your routes carefully and avoid peak traffic times whenever possible. Stop-and-go traffic consumes significantly more fuel than steady highway driving. Using navigation apps to identify and avoid congested areas can save you both time and money.

Be mindful of your driving habits. Aggressive acceleration and speeding dramatically reduce fuel economy. Drive smoothly, maintain a consistent speed, and avoid unnecessary idling. Take a look at SILVERADO MPG across all years to understand longer term trends regarding fuel economy.