19 MPG combined isn’t amazing, but for the 2019 Chevrolet Silverado C10 XFE 2WD with the 5.3L V8, it’s an expected tradeoff. This is not a hybrid or an economy trim. It’s a work truck, designed for buyers who value capability and strong performance over the best possible fuel economy. These are contractors, small business owners, and weekend warriors who need to haul materials, tow trailers, and get work done, and for them, the Silverado XFE offers a reasonable compromise.

City and highway performance

The Silverado C10 XFE gets 17 MPG in the city and 24 MPG on the highway. The 17 MPG in the city reflects stop-and-go traffic and the engine’s need to overcome inertia, a common issue for full-size trucks. On the open road, the 8-speed automatic transmission allows the engine to run efficiently, contributing to the 24 MPG figure. Highway driving also lessens the effect of the truck’s weight and aerodynamics. These figures aren’t class-leading, but they’re typical for a V8-powered, rear-wheel-drive truck of this size.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2019 Chevrolet Silverado C10 XFE 2WD at $2,300. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with 55% of those miles driven in the city and 45% on the highway, using the national average fuel price for regular unleaded gasoline at the time of the calculation. Of course, individual fuel costs will change based on driving habits, local fuel prices, and the actual miles driven. For owners who use their Silverado mostly for shorter trips or heavy hauling, the $2,300 may be too low.

Real-world expectations

The EPA provides an estimate, but actual fuel economy can change a lot. Heavy loads, frequent towing, aggressive driving, and tire pressure affect the MPG you get. Silverado C10 XFE drivers who spend a lot of time idling or in traffic should expect fuel economy closer to the city estimate, while those who mostly drive on the highway will likely see numbers closer to, or even better than, the 24 MPG rating.

How it compares

The 2019 Silverado C10 XFE’s fuel economy is about average for its class. A comparable Ford F-150 with the 2.7L EcoBoost V6 and rear-wheel drive gets a combined MPG of 22, making it a slightly more fuel-efficient option. The RAM 1500 with the 3.6L eTorque V6 and rear-wheel drive offers a combined MPG of 21. These trucks may not offer the hauling performance of the XFE trim. Buyers often accept slightly lower MPG for the proven reliability and power of the 5.3L V8. For comparisons, you can see SILVERADO MPG across all years to see how the XFE differs.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Avoid quick acceleration and hard braking. The Silverado is a heavy truck, and speeding up or slowing down quickly uses more fuel. Accelerate gently and watch the traffic to save gas.

Keep tires inflated. Low tire pressure increases rolling resistance, making the engine work harder and burn more fuel. Check your tire pressure and inflate them to the pressure listed on the doorjamb sticker.

Reduce weight. Carrying tools and materials adds weight, decreasing fuel economy. Remove extra cargo from the bed and cab.

Use Eco mode. The 2019 Silverado XFE has an Eco mode that adjusts the engine and transmission to improve fuel efficiency. It may reduce performance a bit, but it can help improve MPG, especially on the highway.

Use cruise control on the highway. Keeping a constant speed on the highway can optimize fuel economy. Set the cruise control at a reasonable speed to save fuel.

For a wider view, you can see all Chevrolet fuel economy data to compare the Silverado’s MPG to other Chevrolet models.