Owners of the 2016 Chevrolet Silverado K15 4WD with the strong 6.2L V8 get 17 MPG combined. No one buys *this* Silverado looking for Prius-like efficiency. This powertrain is for those who prioritize raw power, effortless towing, and the throaty rumble of a classic American V8 over squeezing every last mile from a gallon of gasoline. It’s a truck for weekend warriors, job site supervisors, and anyone who wants to know they have the capability to haul just about anything, anytime.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2016 Silverado 6.2L 4WD break down to 15 MPG in the city and 21 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the realities of stop-and-go traffic, where the engine spends more time idling or accelerating from a standstill. This engine’s displacement and horsepower require a lot of fuel when working hard. The highway number is more palatable, and reflects the benefits of the 8-speed automatic transmission, which allows the engine to cruise at lower RPMs at higher speeds. Still, even on the open road, the Silverado’s weight and aerodynamic profile make it a thirsty beast.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA calculates the annual fuel cost for this particular Silverado configuration to be $2,600. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with 55% of those miles driven in the city and 45% on the highway. It also assumes current national average fuel prices. Of course, actual fuel costs will vary significantly depending on your driving habits, location, and the prevailing price of gasoline. If you primarily use your Silverado for short trips around town, expect to spend significantly more than the EPA estimate. Conversely, if you do a lot of long highway drives, you might get closer to, or even slightly better than, the estimate. Consider that gasoline prices have changed greatly since the original release, so the original figure is a guideline.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA numbers provide a baseline, real-world fuel economy for the 2016 Silverado 6.2L 4WD often falls short. Owners frequently report numbers closer to 13-14 MPG in mixed driving conditions, especially if they regularly tow or haul heavy loads. Aggressive driving, short trips, and cold weather can also negatively impact fuel economy. Also, larger, heavier aftermarket wheels and tires are a common modification for trucks like this and can further reduce MPG. Remember that this truck has power if you need it, but also has a large appetite for fuel when you unleash its potential. Anyone considering this Silverado should factor in higher-than-advertised fuel costs into their budget.

How it compares

Compared to its rivals, the 2016 Silverado 6.2L 4WD isn’t exactly a fuel-sipping champion. A similarly equipped 2016 Ford F-150 with the 3.5L EcoBoost V6 (rated at 17 MPG combined) might offer slightly better fuel economy for similar performance. The Ram 1500 with the HEMI V8 lags behind, and may get the same or slightly worse fuel economy as the 6.2L Silverado. For buyers prioritizing fuel efficiency, a smaller engine or a different truck altogether might be a better choice. However, for those who want the maximum power and towing capacity offered by the Silverado ecosystem, the 6.2L’s fuel economy is often considered an acceptable trade-off. See all all Chevrolet fuel economy data on our site.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The best way to conserve fuel in your 2016 Chevrolet Silverado 6.2L 4WD is to adopt a gentle driving style. Avoid rapid acceleration and hard braking, as these actions burn significantly more fuel. Anticipate traffic flow and maintain a steady speed whenever possible. The 6.2L has abundant power, so there’s no need to constantly push the accelerator.

Ensure your Silverado’s tires are properly inflated to the recommended pressure. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which reduces fuel efficiency. Check your tire pressure regularly, especially during temperature changes, as pressure can fluctuate with the weather. This simple check can noticeably improve fuel economy performance.

Regular maintenance is critical for optimal fuel economy. Keep your truck properly tuned, and ensure that the air filter is clean. A clogged air filter restricts airflow to the engine, which can reduce efficiency. Following the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule will both preserve the longevity of your vehicle, and ensure the best gas mileage possible.

Minimize idling time whenever possible. If you’re stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. Idling consumes fuel without moving you anywhere. While modern engines are more efficient than older ones, excessive idling still wastes fuel, so turning off the engine in prolonged stops will translate to increased miles per gallon. Considering a used truck? See our guide to SILVERADO MPG across all years before purchasing.