17 MPG combined isn’t going to win any awards, but for the 2018 Chevrolet Silverado C15 2WD with the 6.2L V8, it’s simply the price you pay. This truck isn’t about fuel efficiency; it’s about effortless power, impressive towing capacity, and that unmistakable V8 rumble. The buyers of this particular Silverado configuration aren’t necessarily prioritizing fuel economy above all else. They want the biggest, baddest engine available in a half-ton truck, and they’re willing to live with the consequences at the pump.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2018 Silverado C15 2WD 6.2L V8 are 15 MPG in the city and 21 MPG on the highway. That’s a pretty significant spread, and it reflects the nature of the engine. Around town, the big V8 is always ready to unleash its considerable power, and that translates to lower fuel economy. Open it up on the highway, and the eight-speed automatic transmission can settle into a more fuel-efficient gear, allowing for a slightly better showing. The difference between city and highway MPG really highlights that those who do more highway miles driving should consider this powertrain over the alternative smaller engines.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for this Silverado at $3,400. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with fuel prices reflecting a national average. It’s a useful metric to compare against other vehicles, but ultimately, your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits, the type of driving (city vs. highway), and the current price of gasoline in your area. Consider this figure a benchmark, not a guaranteed outcome.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a baseline, real-world fuel economy can vary quite a bit. If you frequently tow heavy loads, expect to see significantly lower MPG figures than the EPA estimates. Aggressive driving, stop-and-go traffic, and even tire pressures can all impact fuel economy. Conversely, driving conservatively on long highway stretches can sometimes yield slightly better-than-EPA results. The quoted figures are a guide, not a guarantee under all conditions.

How it compares

Compared to other full-size, half-ton trucks, the 2018 Silverado 6.2L’s fuel economy sits on the lower end, especially compared to trucks with smaller engines or those equipped with diesel powertrains. For example, the Ford F-150 with the 2.7L EcoBoost manages around 22 MPG combined, while the Ram 1500 EcoDiesel can achieve close to 24 MPG combined. Even the Silverado itself, when equipped with the 5.3L V8, sees a mild improvement closer to 19 MPG combined. But none of them deliver the same raw horsepower of the 6.2L and that’s what attracts this Silverado’s buyer who likely isn’t comparison shopping with a diesel. Those considering a Nissan Titan XD with the 5.6L V8, though, might find the Silverado’s fuel-economy similar while offering a more refined driving and owner experience.

Tips to maximize efficiency

While this Silverado isn’t designed to be a fuel miser, there are still ways to improve your fuel consumption. Avoid rapid acceleration and hard braking. The 6.2L engine delivers its power readily, so there’s really no need to floor the accelerator at every opportunity. Smooth, gradual acceleration will help conserve fuel.

Keep your tires properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which reduces fuel economy. Check your tires regularly and maintain the recommended pressure, which can usually be found on a sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb.

Minimize idling. Letting your Silverado idle for extended periods burns fuel without moving. If you’re going to be stopped for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine. Modern starters are more than capable to restart the vehicle hundreds of times without issue.

Use cruise control on the highway. Maintaining a steady speed on the highway can help improve fuel economy. Cruise control helps prevent unnecessary acceleration and deceleration, which can waste fuel. Also avoid excessive speeding, as wind resistance grows exponentially at higher speed.

Consider removing any unnecessary weight from the truck bed. Hauling around extra weight reduces fuel economy. If you’re not using it, take it out. If you’re curious about all Chevrolet fuel economy data or want to dive deeper into the SILVERADO MPG across all years, we’ve got you covered.