16 MPG combined isn’t going to win the 2022 Chevrolet Silverado 4WD 6.2L any fuel-sipping awards, but that’s not the point of this truck. This truck is for the buyer who needs serious towing capacity, loves the rumble of a naturally aspirated V8, and isn’t afraid to pay at the pump for the privilege. It’s the truck for hauling equipment to the job site during the week and bringing the boat to the lake on weekends.

City and highway performance

The EPA ratings for the 2022 Silverado 6.2L 4WD break down to 14 MPG in the city and 19 MPG on the highway. That city figure is realistically achievable if you’re spending a lot of time in stop-and-go traffic. That smooth-shifting 10-speed automatic transmission does its best to keep the engine in its sweet spot. The highway number, however, demands a light foot. The big 6.2L can easily dip below 19 MPG if you’re consistently running at higher speeds or battling headwinds. Remember this is a full-size truck with a very powerful engine, so aerodynamics aren’t exactly its forte.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the annual fuel cost for the 2022 Chevrolet Silverado 4WD 6.2L is estimated at $3,600. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with 55% of those miles driven in the city and 45% on the highway, using national average fuel prices. Of course, your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits, the type of roads you frequent, and prevailing fuel prices in your area. That $3,600 figure provides a useful benchmark for budgeting purposes.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates offer a standardized baseline, real-world fuel economy will always fluctuate. If you regularly tow heavy loads, expect significantly lower MPG. The 6.2L V8 is a powerful workhorse, but it requires extra fuel to haul trailers. Conversely, if you do a lot of open-road driving at consistent speeds, you might see slightly better than the EPA highway figure. Keep in mind that factors like tire pressure, ambient temperature, and even the weight of cargo in the bed can all impact fuel consumption.

How it compares

The Ford F-150 with its 3.5L EcoBoost V6 offers a more fuel-efficient alternative, with EPA ratings of 18 MPG city and 24 MPG highway for the comparably equipped 4×4 version. But for buyers prioritizing the sound and feel of a naturally aspirated V8, and who are willing to accept a fuel economy hit for it, the Silverado 6.2L still holds appeal. Ram’s 1500 with the 5.7L HEMI offers a similar experience to the Silverado’s 6.2L, with the eTorque version achieving close to the same 17 MPG combined.

These differences matter to the person who understands that truck ownership is about more than just MPG. It’s about the right tool for the job. Someone who needs max towing capacity may be willing to sacrifice a few MPG to get it. You can easily compare all Chevrolet fuel economy data to see how this specific configuration stacks up against the broader Chevrolet lineup. Be sure to check the SILVERADO MPG across all years to see how this model has evolved over time.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Aggressive acceleration is a major fuel economy killer in any vehicle, but especially in a large displacement pickup. The 6.2L V8 loves to rev, but try to ease onto the throttle, particularly from a standstill. Gentle acceleration will significantly improve your city MPG.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires create more rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder. Check your tire pressure regularly and maintain the recommended PSI listed on the door jamb.

Reduce aerodynamic drag by removing any unnecessary accessories from the roof rack or bed. Even open bed configurations can reduce fuel economy at highway speeds, especially if you have oversized tires installed.

Be mindful of your driving routes. Avoiding stop-and-go traffic and choosing routes with consistent speeds can noticeably improve fuel economy. Consider using navigation apps that provide real-time traffic updates and suggest more efficient routes.

Regular maintenance is key. Ensure your engine is properly tuned and that all filters are clean. A well-maintained engine operates more efficiently, saving you money at the pump in the long run.