27 MPG combined is impressive for a full-size, half-ton pickup truck, and the 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 2WD with the 3.0L Duramax diesel proves that capability doesn’t have to mean poor fuel economy. This isn’t a truck for hauling granite boulders up a mountain, it’s a truck that appeals to the ranch owner who needs to tow a horse trailer, the contractor who needs to haul tools and materials to a job site, the family that needs to tow a boat, or anyone who appreciates the utility of a pickup but doesn’t want to visit the gas station every other day. It’s a truck for using, but one that respects your wallet.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2020 Silverado 2WD 3.0L diesel at 23 MPG in the city and a remarkable 33 MPG on the highway. These figures are strong for a truck, owing much to the engine’s inherent efficiency and the smooth 10-speed automatic transmission designed to keep the engine operating in its optimal range. The highway number, in particular, makes this Silverado a comfortable and relatively economical choice for long-distance driving, whether you’re commuting, road-tripping, or hauling equipment to a distant job. Owners have reported that the engine is quiet and potent, making for generally pleasant driving.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA calculates the annual fuel cost for the 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 2WD 3.0L diesel at $2,050. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. It’s a useful benchmark for comparing the Silverado’s running costs with other vehicles, but your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits, the type of driving you do (city vs. highway), and the price of diesel fuel in your area. Someone who primarily drives in stop-and-go traffic will likely spend more, while someone who mostly drives on the highway may spend less.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a standardized comparison point, real-world fuel economy often differs. Several factors can impact the MPG you actually achieve. Aggressive driving, carrying heavy loads, towing trailers, using four-wheel drive (if equipped), and even tire pressure can all affect fuel consumption. Many owners report that achieving the EPA’s highway number is quite realistic in ideal conditions, but city driving can be more challenging, especially with frequent stops and starts. Expect some variation, but the diesel’s inherent efficiency generally allows Silverado 3.0L owners to see impressive fuel economy for a truck of this size. Keep an eye on your trip computer and driving habits.

How it compares

The 2020 Silverado 2WD 3.0L diesel’s fuel economy stands out in the full-size truck segment. For example, a 2020 Ford F-150 with the 2.7L EcoBoost engine and 2WD is rated at 20 MPG combined, while the 5.0L V8 model is significantly lower. A comparable Ram 1500 with the 3.6L eTorque V6 achieves similar fuel economy to the F-150. Even the Ram 1500 diesel is comparable to the Silverado, making its strong fuel economy on par with the newest trucks on the market. This comparison matters because buyers in this segment often need to balance capability with operating costs. The Silverado 3.0L offers a blend of both, giving drivers a practical truck at a lower cost. You can research all Chevrolet fuel economy data to get a more complete picture of the lineup’s performance.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Gentle acceleration and braking are key factors in maximizing fuel economy for any vehicle, but especially for larger vehicles like the Silverado. Avoid aggressive starts and sudden stops, as these actions waste fuel and reduce efficiency. Anticipate traffic flow and maintain a steady speed whenever possible; the diesel engine is most efficient at a consistent pace.

Tire pressure plays an important role in fuel economy. Check your tires regularly and ensure they are inflated to the recommended pressure, found on a sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which forces the engine to work harder, reducing fuel economy.

Minimize unnecessary weight in the truck bed or cab. The more weight the Silverado carries, the more fuel it consumes. Remove any items that aren’t needed for your daily driving to reduce the load and improve fuel efficiency. This is a critical step people overlook after using their trucks regularly.

Consider using cruise control on the highway to maintain a consistent speed and prevent unintentional acceleration. Maintaining a steady speed can significantly improve your highway fuel economy, especially over long distances. A steady foot helps the 3.0L diesel do its best work.

Stay on top of scheduled maintenance. Regular oil changes, air filter replacements, and other maintenance tasks help ensure that the engine is running efficiently. A well-maintained engine consumes less fuel and operates more smoothly. For more about Chevy trucks, research SILVERADO MPG across all years.