The 2023 Chevrolet Silverado with mud-terrain tires, four-wheel drive, and the 3.0L Duramax diesel gets 22 MPG combined. That’s a respectable figure, but it’s critical to understand what this Silverado is. This configuration isn’t about maximizing fuel economy; it’s about capability. This Silverado is built for those who need to conquer rough terrain, pull heavy loads, and venture far from paved roads. The fuel economy is simply a necessary consideration for buyers prioritizing ruggedness and functionality over efficiency. These owners accept the trade-off.

City and highway performance

The EPA breaks down the 22 MPG combined rating into 21 MPG in the city and 23 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the realities of stop-and-go traffic and the added resistance of the mud-terrain tires. The highway number is slightly better, as the Duramax diesel’s torque allows for relaxed cruising at higher speeds. It’s important to remember that these are EPA estimates, and real-world driving conditions can significantly impact these numbers. Hauling heavy payloads or navigating challenging off-road trails will inevitably reduce fuel economy.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for this specific Silverado configuration at $2,550. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, using the national average fuel price for diesel at the time of calculation. It’s a helpful benchmark, but individual fuel costs will vary based on driving habits, fuel prices in your region, and how the truck is used. Someone primarily using this Silverado for short commutes in the city will likely see a higher annual fuel cost than someone who primarily uses it for long highway trips.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standardized rating, real-world fuel economy will depend heavily on driving style and operating conditions. Owners who frequently tow or engage in off-road activities will likely see numbers closer to the low end of the spectrum, while those who primarily use their truck for highway driving may achieve figures closer to, or even slightly above, the EPA estimate.

Terrain also plays a significant role. Driving on flat terrain will generally result in better fuel economy than driving in hilly or mountainous areas. Maintaining proper tire pressures and adhering to recommended maintenance schedules are also critical for optimizing fuel efficiency. For all Chevrolet fuel economy data, see here.

How it compares

Compared to other full-size trucks in similar configurations, the 2023 Silverado with the diesel engine and mud-terrain tires holds its own, but isn’t class-leading in economy. A comparable Ford F-150 with four-wheel drive and the 3.5L EcoBoost V6 typically achieves around 19 MPG combined. Ram 1500 models with the 5.7L Hemi V8 come in around 17 MPG or 18 MPG combined. The key is understanding that buyers opting for mud-terrain tires are prioritizing off-road grip and durability, accepting the fuel economy penalty for the added capability. These buyers also aren’t cross-shopping with the Silverado’s 2WD models that get better mileage. For more details on SILVERADO MPG across all years consult this page.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Given that this Silverado is often used for demanding tasks, focusing on gentle acceleration and smooth braking can make a noticeable difference. Avoid aggressive driving habits, as they significantly impact fuel consumption, especially with the added rolling resistance of the mud-terrain tires.

Proper tire inflation is critical for maximizing fuel efficiency. Regularly check and maintain the recommended tire pressure to reduce rolling resistance. A few PSI can easily lower gas mileage.

Minimize unnecessary weight in the truck bed. Carrying heavy loads increases fuel consumption, so remove any items that are not essential for the task at hand. A clean bed is good for your wallet.

Consider using cruise control on the highway. Maintaining a consistent speed can help optimize fuel economy, especially on long trips. The 10-speed automatic transmission does its part in reducing engine speeds.

Adhere to the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule. Regular oil changes, air filter replacements, and other routine maintenance tasks can help keep the engine running efficiently. Do not skip services.