Owners of the 2024 Chevrolet Silverado 4WD with the 2.7L turbocharged four-cylinder engine get 18 MPG combined. This isn’t a groundbreaking number, but it’s acceptable to many buyers of this configuration, given the truck’s capability. They’re likely drawn to the Silverado for its utility, workhorse nature, and modern features, accepting the fuel economy trade-off for the ability to haul, tow, and navigate challenging terrain. The higher price points of diesel trucks or the specific operational needs of a hybrid may also deter them.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the Silverado 4WD 2.7L gets 17 MPG in the city and 19 MPG on the highway. The difference is small. While highway MPG is *usually* significantly higher, this Silverado’s aerodynamic profile doesn’t allow it to stretch its legs much relative to city driving. The 8-speed automatic transmission helps keep the engine in its optimal power band, but the vehicle’s weight and frontal area limit the possible efficiency gains at higher speeds. For owners who primarily use their Silverado for commuting or short trips around town, expect to see numbers close to the city rating. Those who frequently embark on longer highway drives might see figures closer to 19 MPG, but aggressive driving will quickly negate any potential savings.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates an annual fuel cost of $2,450 for this Silverado configuration. This calculation is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Your actual fuel costs could be higher or lower depending on your driving habits, the type of gas you buy, and local fuel prices. Those who tow frequently, drive aggressively, or live in areas with high fuel costs will likely exceed the $2,450 estimate. More conservative drivers who log fewer miles might spend less. This cost is important, but should be considered alongside insurance, maintenance, and overall vehicle expenses.

Real-world expectations

EPA estimates provide a good baseline, but real-world MPG often varies. Driver feedback and independent tests show many Silverado 4WD 2.7L owners report MPG figures that are within 1-2 MPG of the EPA estimates, as long as they’re not consistently using the vehicle for heavy-duty tasks. Hauling heavy loads or towing will put a significant strain on the engine, causing fuel economy to plummet. Factors such as tire pressure, vehicle maintenance, and ambient temperature can also influence your truck’s efficiency. Monitoring your fuel economy through the vehicle’s trip computer or a fuel tracking app can provide valuable insights into your driving habits and identify areas where you can improve.

How it compares

In the competitive full-size truck market, the Silverado’s fuel economy positions it in the middle of the pack for 4WD models. The Ford F-150 with the 2.7L EcoBoost engine achieves around 20 MPG combined in 4×4 configuration, offering a slight advantage. The Ram 1500 with the eTorque 3.6L V6 gets around 21 MPG combined, showcasing the benefits of its mild-hybrid system. Even the Toyota Tundra, while known for its reliability, achieves only around 19 MPG combined in its base 4×4 configuration. For those focused on fuel efficiency above all else, these alternatives might be worth considering. However, the Silverado has competitive pricing, interior features, and towing capacity, making it a balanced choice for many buyers who want a truck for all facets of their lives. You can also review SILVERADO MPG across all years to see how this truck measures up historically, and check all Chevrolet fuel economy data for a complete model range comparison.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The turbocharged nature of the 2.7L engine means it’s responsive to throttle input. Avoiding hard acceleration and maintaining a steady pace can improve fuel economy. Learn to anticipate traffic flow and use the accelerator pedal carefully, letting off the gas early to coast whenever possible. Consistent speeding with a heavy foot will eliminate any potential fuel savings.

Regular maintenance is critical for optimal fuel economy. Ensure that your Silverado’s tires are properly inflated to the recommended pressure, as under-inflated tires increase rolling resistance and reduce efficiency. And keep up with scheduled oil changes and air filter replacements, as these factors can impact engine performance and fuel consumption. Follow the maintenance schedule in your owner’s manual for the best results.

Minimize unnecessary weight in your truck bed. Carrying around heavy items that you don’t need will negatively affect fuel economy. Clean out your truck bed regularly and remove any tools, equipment, or materials that aren’t essential. Remember that every extra pound contributes to increased fuel consumption.

Consider using cruise control on long highway drives. Maintaining a consistent speed can help optimize fuel efficiency by preventing erratic acceleration and deceleration. Use cruise control on relatively flat stretches of highway to help the truck maintain a steady speed and reduce fuel consumption, but always stay alert and be prepared to disengage cruise control when necessary.

When towing, use the Tow/Haul mode carefully. While this mode optimizes the transmission for towing, it can also negatively impact fuel economy when not needed. Only use Tow/Haul mode when you are actively towing a trailer or carrying a heavy load. Otherwise, leave it in normal driving mode to maximize fuel efficiency.