The 2023 Chevrolet Silverado 4WD ZR2 with the 6.2L V8 gets 15 MPG combined. This truck isn’t a Prius. It’s a serious off-road machine, designed to conquer terrain and look imposing. The ZR2 appeals to a specific buyer, someone who prioritizes capability, durability, and a V8 rumble over saving money at the pump. Fuel economy is a consideration, but it’s lower on the list than ground clearance, suspension travel, and the ability to ford streams.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the Silverado ZR2 are 14 MPG in the city and 17 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the inherent inefficiencies of stop-and-go driving, which is hard on a large displacement engine hauling a heavy truck. The ZR2’s aggressive tires and off-road tuned suspension contribute to lower city MPG. On the open highway, the 10-speed automatic transmission helps to optimize fuel consumption at cruising speeds, but the truck’s aerodynamics limit its efficiency. Don’t expect to consistently achieve or exceed 17 MPG unless you’re maintaining a steady speed on flat terrain.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2023 Chevrolet Silverado ZR2 4WD 6.2L V8 at $3,850. This calculation is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using the national average fuel price. Fuel prices fluctuate, and your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits and where you live. If you drive significantly more or less than 15,000 miles per year, your fuel expenses will scale accordingly. Someone using this truck primarily for short commutes or weekend off-roading trips might see a lower annual cost, while someone regularly towing or hauling heavy loads will likely exceed the $3,850 estimate.

Real-world expectations

EPA estimates are a helpful benchmark, but real-world fuel economy often differs. The ZR2’s 6.2L V8 is responsive to throttle input, and its sound encourages drivers to use it liberally. This, with the added rolling resistance of knobby off-road tires, means that achieving the EPA numbers requires a conscious effort and conservative driving habits. Some ZR2 owners report averaging closer to 12-14 MPG in mixed driving conditions. Aggressive acceleration, frequent off-roading, and towing will all decrease fuel economy.

Understand what you’re buying and drive accordingly.

How it compares

Compared to other off-road-oriented trucks, the Silverado ZR2’s fuel economy is in line with expectations. The Ford F-150 Raptor, with its boosted 3.5L V6, achieves a slightly better 15 MPG city and 18 MPG highway. The Ram 1500 TRX, packing a supercharged 6.2L HEMI V8, delivers a dismal 10 MPG city and 14 MPG highway. A more direct comparison is the standard Silverado 1500 with the same 6.2L V8 but without the ZR2’s off-road modifications, which manages around 16 MPG combined. The ZR2 buyer sacrifices a couple of MPG for enhanced capability. If fuel economy is an important concern, prospective owners can research all Chevrolet fuel economy data or the SILVERADO MPG across all years to find more efficient options within the Silverado lineup or other brands.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Minimize aggressive driving. The ZR2’s powerful V8 is tempting, but every hard acceleration reduces fuel economy. Control your throttle input and avoid unnecessary bursts of speed. Anticipate traffic flow and maintain a steady pace.

Maintain proper tire inflation. The ZR2’s large, aggressive tires benefit from being properly inflated. Check your tire pressure regularly and ensure it matches the recommendations on the doorjamb sticker. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance and negatively impact fuel economy. You might also consider switching to a less aggressive tire if you’re doing mostly on-road driving.

Reduce unnecessary weight. Hauling around extra cargo adds weight and reduces fuel economy. Remove any unnecessary items from the bed and cab of the truck. Emptying the truck of unnecessary equipment can have a small but noticeable impact.

Avoid extended idling. Idling consumes fuel without covering any distance. If you’re stopped for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine. The ZR2’s engine is designed for easy restarting, and avoiding prolonged idling saves fuel and reduces emissions.