17 MPG combined is what you get with the 2019 Chevrolet Silverado K10 4WD with the 5.3L V8, and it’s a number that isn’t going to excite everyone. This isn’t a Prius, and it’s not trying to be. The K10 designation, a throwback to older trucks, makes it clear that this is a truck built for work, for hauling, and for navigating tough terrain where fuel economy isn’t a high priority. People buy this Silverado configuration when capability and durability are most important. Ranchers, construction crews, and anyone who needs a dependable workhorse understand the trade-off, and they factor gas costs into their budget. They need a truck that can get the job done, and this one delivers, but you’ll be stopping at the gas station often.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2019 Silverado K10 4WD 5.3L V8 gets 15 MPG in the city and 20 MPG on the highway. This difference, while not huge, shows what it’s like to drive a full-size truck. Stop-and-go traffic makes fuel consumption worse because of the vehicle’s weight and the engine having to work harder to accelerate. The six-speed automatic transmission is generally reliable, but it doesn’t have as many gears as newer transmissions, which could help improve efficiency at lower speeds. On the open road, the Silverado does a little better, but its boxy shape still hurts mileage. Keeping a steady speed on the highway helps, but expect that 20 MPG number to drop quite a bit when towing or hauling a heavy load. The engine’s cylinder deactivation system tries to improve gas mileage when the engine isn’t working hard, but it doesn’t make a huge difference in real-world driving.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2019 Chevrolet Silverado K10 4WD 5.3L V8 at $2,600. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with a mix of city and highway driving, and using the EPA’s national average fuel prices when they made the calculation. This cost is a big expense for owners, especially if they use the truck every day or for long trips. Owning a full-size, four-wheel-drive truck with a V8 engine means there are going to be financial considerations. Knowing this cost beforehand is important for budgeting and planning, particularly for businesses with multiple vehicles.

Real-world expectations

EPA estimates are a helpful guide, but real-world fuel economy can vary. Drivers who regularly haul heavy loads, or often drive in difficult off-road conditions, will probably see numbers below the EPA’s 17 MPG combined estimate. Driving aggressively, like accelerating hard, will also negatively impact fuel economy. However, drivers who mostly use the Silverado for lighter tasks and focus on smooth acceleration and consistent speeds may see numbers closer to the EPA’s estimates, or even a little better. It’s important to keep track of your own fuel consumption over time to get a realistic idea of what to expect in your specific driving conditions.

How it compares

The Silverado’s fuel economy is similar to its competitors in 2019 with similar configurations. The Ford F-150 with its 5.0L V8 and four-wheel drive gets around 16 MPG combined. The Ram 1500 Classic with its 5.7L Hemi V8 and four-wheel drive is also in the same range. Newer trucks with more advanced engines and transmissions, such as the F-150 with the 2.7L EcoBoost V6 (up to 20 MPG Combined) or updated Ram 1500 models with the eTorque mild-hybrid system, get slightly better fuel economy. Remember to find all Chevrolet fuel economy data to compare across models. The older six-speed automatic transmission in the 2019 Silverado K10 4WD 5.3L V8 contributes to its lower mileage. People shopping for a work truck like this may prioritize capability over small fuel savings. If fuel costs are a big concern, looking at newer models or different engine options is worth it. You can check SILVERADO MPG across all years to see the efficiency improvements over time. Many of these other options sacrifice towing power or truck bed space, which are reasons people choose this Silverado.

Tips to Maximize Efficiency

Accelerate gently. The 5.3L V8 responds well, but avoid flooring the gas pedal unless necessary. Smooth, gradual acceleration uses less fuel.

Anticipate traffic and avoid sudden stops, this forces the engine to work harder to get back up to speed.

Keep your tires properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which makes the engine work harder and reduces fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended pressure listed on the door jamb.

Reduce weight. Carrying around extra weight in the bed of the truck or in the cabin hurts fuel economy. Remove any unnecessary items to lighten the load and improve efficiency. This is especially true for heavy tools or equipment that aren’t needed for daily driving.

Consider switching to a lower viscosity oil. Using the manufacturer-recommended engine oil is important for engine health, but a lower viscosity oil within those guidelines can reduce friction and slightly improve fuel economy. Check your owner’s manual or a trusted mechanic for recommendations.

Minimize idling. Idling uses fuel without going anywhere. If you’re going to be stopped for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine. Modern engines are designed to restart easily, and the fuel saved adds up.