17 MPG combined. That’s the fuel economy reality for the 2018 Chevrolet Silverado K15 4WD equipped with the strong 6.2L V8. This isn’t a Prius. This truck is built for serious work, substantial towing, and those who prioritize capability and performance over low fuel consumption. The Silverado 6.2L appeals to buyers who need its impressive 420 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque, and are willing to accept the fuel bill.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2018 Silverado 6.2L at 15 MPG in the city and 20 MPG on the highway. These figures reflect stop-and-go traffic and maintaining higher speeds on the open road with a full-size, four-wheel-drive pickup. The city number, representing around-town driving, is particularly relevant to those who use their Silverado as a daily driver or for work in urban environments.

The highway figure, while slightly better, still lags behind competitors with smaller engines or more focused efficiency efforts.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for this Silverado configuration at exactly $3,400. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. It’s a substantial expense, and one that prospective owners should factor into their budget.

Fluctuating fuel prices can significantly alter this calculation. When fuel prices are higher, the annual cost will rise accordingly, and vice versa.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standardized estimate, real-world fuel economy can vary significantly depending on driving habits, load, and terrain. Aggressive acceleration, frequent towing, or driving in hilly areas will decrease fuel efficiency. Drivers who adopt a more conservative approach and minimize heavy loads may see results closer to the EPA highway figure.

Many factors contribute to individual MPG, but the 6.2L V8 prioritizes brute force; efficiency is a secondary concern. You can also find SILVERADO MPG across all years on our site.

How it compares

The 2018 Silverado 6.2L isn’t a leader in fuel economy within its class. For example, the 2018 Ford F-150 4×4 with the 3.5L EcoBoost V6 is rated at 19 MPG combined. Even some Ram 1500 models, particularly those equipped with the eTorque mild-hybrid system, can achieve slightly better numbers. The Toyota Tundra, with its standard 5.7L V8, posts similar numbers to the Silverado, but the Tundra’s aging platform lacks some of the modern efficiency technologies found in its American counterparts.

For the Silverado 6.2L buyer, however, outright capability often outweighs the marginal fuel savings offered by these rivals, and you can view all Chevrolet fuel economy data on our website.

Tips to maximize efficiency

While the 6.2L V8 isn’t designed for hypermiling, owners can take steps to reduce gas consumption. Gentle acceleration and anticipating traffic flow can minimize the engine’s workload. Avoid abrupt braking and maintain a steady speed whenever possible. The 8-speed automatic transmission is programmed to find the highest possible gear for fuel conservation, so let it do its job.

Proper tire inflation is often overlooked, but it plays a critical role in fuel efficiency. Check your tires regularly and maintain the recommended pressure, which is typically listed on a sticker inside the driver’s side door. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consuming more fuel.

Reduce the load whenever possible. Hauling unnecessary weight will invariably impact fuel economy. Remove any items from the bed of the truck that aren’t needed for the current trip. While a truck bed cover can improve aerodynamics, only add one if you regularly have lightweight items in the cargo bed that the cover will protect.

Consider using the Silverado’s available drive modes. Many modern trucks, including the Silverado, offer different driving modes that optimize various parameters, including throttle response and transmission shift points. While it won’t radically transform the fuel economy, selecting the “Eco” or “Tour” mode can help promote more efficient driving. Pay attention to the specific programming of that drive mode; using “Tow/Haul” mode when unladen will negatively affect fuel economy.

Finally, ensure the vehicle is properly maintained. Regular oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug maintenance are essential for optimal engine performance and fuel efficiency. A well-maintained engine will run more efficiently, extracting the most power from each gallon of fuel. A neglected engine, on the other hand, will gradually lose efficiency over time.