The 2023 Chevrolet Silverado Cab Chassis 2WD with the 5.3L V8 gets 16 MPG combined. It’s not a grocery-getter; it’s a purpose-built machine designed for commercial use, often heavily laden and working hard. Fuel economy is a consideration, but capability and reliability typically outweigh the desire for Prius-like efficiency among buyers in this segment.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates put city driving at 15 MPG and highway driving at 18 MPG. Keep in mind that these figures represent a lightly loaded, fully compliant, and professionally driven test vehicle. The real-world numbers for a Silverado Cab Chassis, invariably hauling equipment or towing materials, will often be lower. The 10-speed automatic transmission does its best to keep the engine in its most efficient operating range, but the demands placed on the 5.3L V8 will dictate the fuel consumption. The engine’s efficiency features like cylinder deactivation are only used when not actively towing.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the annual fuel cost for the 2023 Chevrolet Silverado Cab Chassis 2WD 5.3L is estimated at $2,750. This figure assumes 15,000 miles of driving per year, using the national average fuel price at the time of calculation. If your annual mileage is higher, or if fuel prices in your area are above average, expect to pay more. Businesses using this truck should accurately track fuel expenses for budgeting and tax purposes.

Real-world expectations

Don’t expect to consistently achieve EPA numbers on the road. Payload, towing, driving style, terrain, and even tire pressure will impact fuel economy. Drivers who prioritize smooth acceleration, maintain proper tire inflation, and minimize idling will see better results. Owners should also track their own fuel consumption over time to establish a realistic baseline for their specific usage patterns. Averages may rise when the truck is unloaded, but this is unlikely to be the normal condition for this kind of vehicle.

How it compares

The Ford F-350 XL Regular Cab with the 6.2L V8 can achieve around the same at 15 MPG combined. The Ram 3500 Tradesman with the 6.4L V8 is also in the same range. For buyers in the market for a work truck, fuel economy is often secondary to other factors. A buyer likely cares more about payload capacity, towing capability, and total cost of ownership. Marginally better fuel economy might be appealing in theory but the Silverado Cab Chassis’s strong build and readily available parts can be advantages. See all Chevrolet fuel economy data.

Tips to maximize efficiency

This Silverado responds well to gentle acceleration. Avoid stomping on the gas, especially when starting from a standstill. Gradual acceleration allows the transmission to shift smoothly through the gears, keeping the engine in its optimal efficiency range and reducing unnecessary fuel consumption. You’ll also reduce overall wear and tear on the vehicle.

Monitor your tire pressure regularly. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which decreases fuel economy. Check the sticker on the driver’s side doorjamb for the recommended tire pressure, and ensure your tires are properly inflated before each workday, especially while heavily loaded. Ensuring they are properly inflated will also improve handling.

Reduce unnecessary idling. Idling for extended periods consumes fuel without covering any distance. Instead, turn off the engine when parked for more than a minute or two. Modern engines restart quickly and efficiently, making this a simple way to save fuel. Limiting the idle time can save thousands of dollars per year in fuel costs, depending on how much the truck idles.

Plan your routes strategically. Combining multiple errands into a single trip minimizes cold starts, which are less fuel-efficient. Also, avoid peak traffic hours whenever possible. Stop-and-go traffic is a fuel economy killer. Taking efficient routes can save both time and fuel.

Consider the weight you’re carrying. Unnecessary weight increases fuel consumption. Remove any tools or equipment that aren’t needed for the current job. Less weight translates to less strain on the engine and improved fuel economy. This does not always equate to removing equipment, though, sometimes the equipment IS the payload! More information on SILVERADO MPG across all years.