17 MPG combined is what owners of the 2020 Chevrolet Silverado Cab Chassis 2WD with the 4.3L V6 actually experience. This truck isn’t purchased for its fuel efficiency. It’s a workhorse, a bare-bones hauler designed for upfitting into something far more specialized than your average pickup. Landscapers, contractors, and delivery services choose this vehicle for its payload capacity and customization potential. They accept the fuel economy as a cost of doing business.

City and highway performance

The Silverado Cab Chassis 2WD earns an EPA-estimated 15 MPG in the city and 19 MPG on the highway. The lower city figure is predictable. Stop-and-go traffic and frequent idling are fuel-economy killers for any large vehicle, especially one that’s likely to be heavily loaded with equipment or materials. The highway MPG is slightly better, reflecting the inherent efficiency of steady-state cruising, but even that number is modest. The 6-speed automatic transmission, while durable and reliable, isn’t geared for maximizing fuel savings like the more modern 8- or 10-speed units found in some other trucks.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for this Silverado configuration at $2,600. This figure is calculated 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 at the time of calculation. It’s critical to understand that this is an estimate. Your actual fuel costs could be higher or lower depending on your driving habits, the type of work you’re doing with the truck, and local fuel prices. For example, operating this vehicle regularly in a city with high fuel costs will increase your expenditure. Heavy towing or hauling will also increase your costs.

Real-world expectations

17 MPG is the EPA number, but those who use the 2020 Chevrolet Silverado Cab Chassis 2WD in the real world often find that number to be optimistic. The fuel consumption must be weighed against its capabilities. This is a truck chosen for its ability to be transformed into a specific tool for a particular job. Whether it’s a flatbed for hauling equipment, a box truck for deliveries, or a service body for on-site repairs, the added weight and aerodynamic drag of the upfit will inevitably impact fuel efficiency. Don’t be surprised to see numbers closer to 14 or 15 MPG in mixed driving conditions, especially if you’re constantly running near the truck’s maximum payload capacity.

How it compares

When comparing the Silverado Cab Chassis to other vehicles in the same class, the fuel economy doesn’t vary significantly. The Ford Transit Cutaway, another popular choice for similar applications, yields comparable MPG figures in its base configuration, around 16 MPG combined. The RAM ProMaster Chassis Cab typically offers similar combined mpg figures. The key difference lies in the specific powertrain configurations and upfitting options available. The 4.3L V6 in the Silverado, while not the most fuel-efficient engine, is known for its reliability and relatively low maintenance costs. Someone considering this Silverado isn’t cross-shopping a Toyota Prius. They are weighing the trade-off between fuel consumption and the specific capabilities needed for their business or application. Access all Chevrolet fuel economy data to broaden your comparison.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Given the limitations of a heavy-duty work truck, optimizing fuel efficiency requires a strategic approach. Start by minimizing unnecessary idling. The 4.3L V6 burns a significant amount of fuel when idling, so shutting it off during extended stops, even short ones, can make a noticeable difference.

Regular maintenance is important. Ensure your tires are properly inflated, as underinflated tires increase rolling resistance and reduce fuel economy. Also, keep up with scheduled oil changes and air filter replacements. A clean engine runs more efficiently. Refer to your service manual for recommended intervals and specifications.

Driving habits have a significant impact. Avoid aggressive acceleration and hard braking, as these actions waste fuel. Anticipate traffic flow and maintain a steady speed whenever possible. Using cruise control on the highway can also help to improve fuel efficiency.

Consider modifying your upfitting strategy. Opt for lightweight materials and aerodynamic designs when selecting your body or equipment. Reducing unnecessary weight and minimizing wind resistance will contribute to less gas use. Even small changes can add up over time.

Carefully evaluate your need for four-wheel drive. This particular Silverado is a 2WD model, which offers better fuel economy than a 4WD version. Unless you absolutely require the added traction of 4WD, sticking with the 2WD configuration is the more fuel-efficient choice. Check SILVERADO MPG across all years if you need to compare against 4WD models.