24 MPG combined isn’t going to set any records, but for a full-size, four-wheel-drive pickup truck like the 2023 Chevrolet Silverado with the 3.0L Duramax diesel, it’s impressive. This is a workhorse capable of serious towing and hauling, and those who prioritize capability over fuel costs will find this a surprisingly palatable number.

City and highway performance

The Silverado 4WD 3.0L shines with its fuel economy figures reflecting smart engineering and a modern powertrain. The EPA estimates suggest 22 MPG in the city, a number that benefits from the diesel’s torque-rich nature, allowing it to loaf along at lower RPMs. Highway driving yields an even better 27 MPG. This highway fuel economy is possible thanks to the 10-speed automatic transmission, which keeps the engine in its optimal range at cruising speeds and the diesel powertrain’s inherent efficiency when lightly loaded.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for this Silverado configuration will be $2,300. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Your actual fuel costs will vary depending on how much you drive, where you drive, and current diesel prices. Diesel fuel prices tend to fluctuate more than gasoline, so anticipate possible variance in this annual cost.

Real-world expectations

The EPA numbers provide a good baseline, but real-world fuel economy will always vary depending on driving habits, load, and terrain. If you frequently tow or haul heavy loads, expect your fuel economy to drop below the EPA estimates. But, if you primarily use the Silverado as a daily driver and practice efficient driving techniques, you might even exceed the EPA’s figures. The conditions in which the truck is operated plays a significant role in its fuel economy.

How it compares

The Silverado 4WD with the 3.0L Duramax stands out compared to its competitors. For instance, the Ford F-150 with the 3.5L EcoBoost V6 and four-wheel drive typically sees around 20 MPG combined. The Ram 1500 with the 5.7L Hemi V8 and eTorque mild-hybrid system manages around 19 MPG combined in four-wheel-drive configuration. Even the Toyota Tundra, known for its reliability, generally lags behind the Silverado’s diesel with its non-hybrid options. This difference can add up to significant savings over the lifespan of the truck, a factor that many cost-conscious truck buyers carefully consider when comparing SILVEARDO MPG across all years. The engine configuration makes it one of the more fuel-efficient trucks on the market.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Smooth acceleration is vital for maximizing fuel economy in the Silverado diesel. Avoid sudden bursts of speed, instead gently applying the throttle. The diesel engine produces plenty of torque at low RPMs, so there’s no need to aggressively rev the engine to get up to speed.

Maintaining proper tire inflation is another simple yet effective way to improve fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended pressure listed on the doorjamb sticker. Properly inflated tires reduce rolling resistance, which translates directly to better fuel mileage.

Reduce idling time as much as possible. Even though diesel engines are more efficient than gasoline engines at idle, they still consume fuel. If you’re going to be stopped for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine. It is also recommended you follow the break-in period to ensure that you get the most performance possible out of your truck.

Consider removing any unnecessary weight from the truck bed. Carrying extra weight reduces fuel economy, so clear out any tools, equipment, or other items that you don’t need. Even a few hundred pounds of extra weight can make a noticeable difference in fuel consumption.

Use cruise control on the highway whenever conditions allow. Cruise control helps maintain a consistent speed, which can improve fuel economy. But, remember that cruise control may not be the most efficient option in hilly terrain, as it may downshift unnecessarily to maintain speed.

Find all Chevrolet fuel economy data on the FuelEconomyHub website.