16 MPG combined. Frankly, if you’re choosing the 2023 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 with mud-terrain tires, four-wheel drive, and the powerful 6.2-liter V8, you’re probably not prioritizing fuel efficiency. This truck is built for conquering challenging terrain, hauling heavy loads, and projecting a powerful image. The fuel economy is simply the price of entry for that capability and appearance. This configuration is for the buyer who lives on a long dirt road, frequently tows a boat or trailer, or just wants the most capable and aggressive-looking Silverado available.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2023 Silverado 1500 in this configuration are 14 MPG in the city and 18 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the inherent inefficiencies of stop-and-go driving with a large displacement engine and heavy-duty tires. Expect the engine’s cylinder deactivation system to be less effective in urban environments, as frequent acceleration keeps all eight cylinders firing. The 18 MPG highway rating is more achievable in steady-state cruising, but aggressive acceleration and higher speeds will diminish that number quickly. The aggressive tread pattern of mud-terrain tires creates additional rolling resistance, further impacting fuel economy compared to street-oriented tires.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for this particular 2023 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 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. Remember that this is just an estimate, and your actual fuel costs could vary significantly depending on your driving habits, the type of driving you do, and local fuel prices. If you primarily drive in the city or frequently tow heavy loads, expect to exceed this figure. If you drive fewer miles or live in an area with lower fuel prices, you might spend less.

Real-world expectations

Real-world fuel economy for the Silverado 1500 with this powertrain and tire setup depends heavily on driver behavior. Some owners report figures close to the EPA estimates with careful driving, while others who frequently engage the 4WD system, tow, or drive aggressively see numbers significantly lower, sometimes dipping into the single digits. Mud-terrain tires are designed for off-road performance, not fuel efficiency; their aggressive tread pattern increases rolling resistance and reduces aerodynamic efficiency, especially at higher speeds.

How it compares

The fuel economy of this Silverado configuration is lower than some competitors. A similarly equipped Ford F-150 with the 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 might achieve around 17 MPG combined. A Ram 1500 with the 5.7-liter Hemi V8 and eTorque mild-hybrid system could deliver around 18 MPG combined. The Toyota Tundra with its new twin-turbo V6 is likely to surpass the Silverado’s numbers. However, those trucks don’t offer 6.2 liters of naturally aspirated V8 power. The buyer choosing this Silverado isn’t necessarily cross-shopping those models; they’re likely prioritizing the V8’s specific power delivery and sound over fuel savings. Those seeking better fuel economy could explore SILVERADO MPG across all years, potentially opting for a smaller engine or a two-wheel-drive configuration. For a complete look at all Chevrolet fuel economy data, there are options more tailored to fuel efficiency.

Tips to maximize efficiency

While you can’t fundamentally change the nature of a powerful V8 truck with mud-terrain tires, there are still small steps you can take to improve your fuel economy. First, avoid aggressive acceleration and braking. The 6.2-liter engine delivers plenty of power, so there’s no need to constantly push it. Smooth, gradual acceleration will save fuel and also reduce wear and tear on your tires and drivetrain.

Regularly check and maintain your tire pressure. Mud-terrain tires are sensitive to pressure changes, and running them even a few PSI below the recommended level can increase rolling resistance and decrease fuel economy. Refer to the sticker on your doorjamb for the correct tire pressure.

Minimize unnecessary weight in the bed of your truck. Hauling around extra gear or equipment will increase the load on the engine and reduce fuel economy; only carry what you need. If you frequently tow, ensure your trailer is properly balanced and that you’re using the correct hitch and load distribution system.

Consider switching to a less aggressive tire when you’re not actively off-roading. A set of all-terrain or highway tires will offer lower rolling resistance and improved fuel economy on paved roads. This is a trade-off, you’ll sacrifice some off-road capability.