16 MPG combined is what you can expect from the 2019 Chevrolet Silverado K10 4WD TrailBoss with the 4.3L V6. It’s clear: nobody buys this truck primarily for fuel efficiency. They buy it for its off-road capability, its distinctive styling, and its strong work capabilities. Fuel economy is simply part of the ownership costs, and for the TrailBoss buyer, one they’re willing to pay.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates 14 MPG in the city and 18 MPG on the highway. The difference, while present in all vehicles, is a little more pronounced here due to the truck’s aerodynamics and weight. City driving, with its constant stop-and-go, requires significant energy to get this heavy truck moving. Highway driving, once at a steady speed, allows the engine to settle into a more efficient rhythm.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA calculates the annual fuel cost for this Silverado configuration at $2,750. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, using a national average fuel price. This is only an estimate. Your actual fuel costs will vary with your driving habits, the terrain you frequent, and fluctuating fuel prices. Plan accordingly.

Real-world expectations

The EPA provides a standardized benchmark, but real-world fuel economy often differs. Expect variations based on your driving style, the types of roads you typically drive (lots of hills?), and even the weather. Towing or hauling cargo will significantly decrease fuel economy, potentially dropping below the EPA estimates. Off-roading, while the TrailBoss’s forte, consumes a considerable amount of fuel. Tire pressure also can be a factor.

Under-inflated tires increase rolling resistance, negatively impacting MPG, so keep them properly inflated.

How it compares

The Silverado TrailBoss’s fuel economy is within the expected range for a full-size, off-road-oriented truck when compared to its competitors. A similar configuration 2019 Ford F-150 with the 2.7L EcoBoost V6 and four-wheel drive might achieve slightly better numbers, perhaps around 17-18 MPG combined, but it lacks some of the TrailBoss’s aggressive styling. Ram 1500 Rebel models from that year, especially those with the 5.7L Hemi V8, often see figures around 15 MPG combined. The Toyota Tundra TRD Pro, known for its reliability but not its efficiency, generally comes in lower around 14 MPG combined.
For buyers primarily concerned with fuel efficiency, these numbers may encourage comparison, but for TrailBoss buyers, the unique advantages outweigh fuel economy concerns. You can compare all Chevrolet fuel economy data here on our site.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The TrailBoss isn’t designed for hypermiling, but some techniques can help you squeeze out a bit more range from each gallon of fuel. Avoid aggressive acceleration and braking; jackrabbit starts and sudden stops waste fuel. Anticipate traffic flow and maintain a steady speed whenever possible.

Consider your tire selection. The factory tires are chosen for off-road performance, but switching to a less aggressive tread pattern, particularly for drivers spending most of their time on paved roads, will reduce rolling resistance and improve fuel efficiency. This will impact the off-road capabilities of the truck.

Minimize idling. If you’re going to be stopped for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine. Modern engines restart quickly and efficiently, and idling wastes significant fuel, especially in a larger displacement engine like the 4.3L V6. Remote starts also consume fuel.

Maintain your vehicle properly. Regular tune-ups, including spark plug replacement and air filter changes, ensure that your engine is running at peak efficiency. A clean engine is an efficient engine. Check your tire condition on a regular basis to make sure they are not overly worn.

Be mindful of cargo weight. Consider whether permanent bed storage solutions, for example, a tool box, are worth the weight penalty. Extra weight requires more fuel to accelerate and maintain speed. Lightening your load, even modestly, can improve fuel economy. Also, check the history of SILVERADO MPG across all years to understand trends in the model’s efficiency.