17 MPG combined. That’s not winning any hypermiling contests. But the 2019 Chevrolet Silverado C10 2WD with the 4.3L V6 isn’t about saving fuel; it’s about providing dependable, affordable workhorse capability. This is a truck for contractors, small business owners, and anyone who needs to haul equipment, lumber, or landscaping supplies without a huge initial purchase price. Fuel economy is a consideration, but it often takes a backseat to functionality and overall cost of ownership.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the Silverado C10 at 16 MPG in the city and 21 MPG on the highway. These ratings reflect stop-and-go traffic and sustained cruising speeds. The 4.3L V6, while not the most powerful engine in the Silverado lineup, offers adequate torque for most everyday tasks. The six-speed automatic transmission is a reliable performer, offering smooth shifts that prioritize durability over fast acceleration. Drivers will find the highway MPG achievable on long, flat stretches, but expect it to drop when towing or carrying a heavy load. In urban environments, the frequent stops and starts will inevitably pull the average down closer to the 16 MPG mark.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the annual fuel cost for the 2019 Chevrolet Silverado C10 2WD 4.3L V6 is $2,600. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Keep in mind that your actual fuel costs may vary depending on your driving habits, the type of driving you do (city vs. highway), and the price of gasoline in your area. If you predominantly drive in the city or frequently tow heavy loads, you can expect to spend more than the EPA estimate. Conversely, if you primarily drive on the highway and maintain a conservative driving style, you might be able to beat the $2,600 figure. The $2,600 estimate provides a good benchmark for comparison, but should not be taken as an absolute guarantee of your individual spending.

Real-world expectations

While EPA ratings provide a standardized baseline, real-world fuel economy can differ significantly. Owners of the 2019 Silverado C10 with the 4.3L V6 often report MPG figures within a range of 14-19 MPG combined, depending on their driving style and usage. Those who frequently use their truck for work, carrying tools or hauling materials, tend to see lower numbers. Conversely, those who primarily use it as a daily driver with occasional light-duty tasks often report figures closer to the EPA estimates. Tire pressure, vehicle maintenance, and weather conditions can also play a role in fuel efficiency.

How it compares

Compared to other full-size trucks in 2019, the Silverado C10 2WD 4.3L V6’s fuel economy is competitive with base-engine offerings. For example, the Ford F-150 with its base 3.3L V6 offers similar MPG figures, typically around 19 MPG combined. A comparable Ram 1500 with its 3.6L V6 also achieves in the region of 20 MPG combined. Stepping up to larger V8 engines in any of these trucks will inevitably result in lower fuel economy, often dropping into the 15-17 MPG range. If fuel economy is a top priority, buyers might consider the Chevrolet Colorado or GMC Canyon with their available diesel engines, which can achieve significantly better MPG numbers, but for those who need the full-size capabilities of the Silverado, the 4.3L V6 offers a reasonable compromise between performance and fuel consumption. See SILVERADO MPG across all years.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Use cruise control whenever possible on the highway. Maintaining a consistent speed helps to minimize unnecessary acceleration and deceleration, which can significantly impact fuel economy. Avoid aggressive acceleration and braking, as these actions consume more fuel. A smooth and steady driving style is key to maximizing efficiency with the 4.3L V6.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which forces the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended level, which can be found on the sticker inside your driver’s side door.

Reduce unnecessary weight. Carrying extra weight in the truck bed puts additional strain on the engine and reduces fuel economy. Remove any items that you don’t need for your daily routine and only load the truck with what’s necessary for the task at hand.

Consider using a tonneau cover for the truck bed. While the impact can vary depending on driving conditions, some studies suggest that a tonneau cover can improve aerodynamics and slightly increase fuel efficiency, especially at highway speeds. This is more impactful on newer models like the 2024 Silverado, but can still provide measurable benefits.

Pay attention to maintenance. A well-maintained engine runs more efficiently. Follow the recommended maintenance schedule for oil changes, air filter replacements, and other essential services to ensure optimal performance and fuel economy. You can compare this truck’s numbers against all all Chevrolet fuel economy data.