17 MPG combined isn’t going to win any awards, but it’s the realistic price for the 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 2WD 5.3L 8-cyl. This truck isn’t about hypermiling; it’s about capability. It’s for the buyer who needs to tow, haul, and get work done, and who prioritizes the proven reliability and strong power of a traditional V8 over squeezing out every last mile per gallon. This Silverado configuration caters to a specific demographic: contractors, farmers, and business owners who value dependable performance over ultimate fuel efficiency.

City and highway performance

The 2020 Silverado mentioned above delivers 15 MPG in the city and 21 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the stop-and-go nature of urban driving, where the truck’s weight and large displacement engine contribute to increased fuel consumption. The highway figure is more palatable, as the Silverado settles into a more efficient cruising mode, but still lags behind smaller trucks and SUVs. Consider these numbers within the context of what this truck can do: it can lug heavy materials, navigate challenging job sites, and endure demanding workdays. The fuel cost is viewed as a necessary expense for the utility it provides.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 2WD 5.3L 8-cyl at $2,600. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Keep in mind that this is an estimate, and your actual fuel costs may vary based on your driving habits, the type of driving you do, and the price of gasoline in your area. It’s a benchmark to help drivers understand the cost of operating this specific configuration of the Silverado.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates are a useful starting point, real-world fuel economy often differs. Aggressive driving, heavy loads, frequent towing, and improper tire inflation can all negatively impact MPG. Conversely, conservative driving, sticking to highway speeds, and diligent maintenance can help you achieve numbers closer to the EPA estimates. This Silverado, with its traditional V8 and 6-speed automatic, rewards smooth acceleration and anticipation of traffic. Remember that the EPA numbers are based on controlled testing, not the unpredictable realities of daily driving.

How it compares

Comparing the 2020 Silverado 2WD 5.3L to its competitors reveals its place in the market. The Ford F-150 with the 2.7L EcoBoost V6 achieves a combined 22 MPG, offering a significant fuel economy advantage. The Ram 1500 with the eTorque 3.6L V6 boasts a combined 21 MPG. However, many Silverado buyers find the V8 engine to be a worthwhile tradeoff despite the reduced fuel economy. Check SILVERADO MPG across all years to see how the different generations stack up. And be sure to explore all Chevrolet fuel economy data to confirm your decisions.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Minimize idling. The 5.3L V8 burns a significant amount of fuel while idling. If you anticipate being stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine.

Drive smoothly. Avoid hard acceleration and braking, as these actions waste fuel. Gradually increase speed and anticipate traffic flow to maintain a consistent pace.

Maintain proper tire inflation. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which decreases fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended level found on the doorjamb sticker.

Reduce weight. Excess weight in the bed of the truck places additional strain on the engine. Remove any unnecessary cargo to improve fuel efficiency.

Consider using cruise control on the highway. Maintaining a consistent speed can help optimize fuel consumption during long highway drives. Avoid using cruise control in hilly terrain, where the transmission may shift frequently and negate the fuel-saving benefits.