The 2024 Chevrolet Silverado 4WD ZR2 with the 3.0L Duramax diesel engine gets 21 MPG combined. It’s understood that ZR2 buyers prioritize off-road capability over fuel efficiency. This truck competes with the Ford Raptor and Ram TRX, but with a different approach to performance. The diesel powertrain offers a good balance of usable torque and relatively reasonable fuel consumption, which allows drivers to travel far without frequent refueling.

City and highway performance

EPA estimates show the Silverado ZR2 diesel achieving 20 MPG in the city and 22 MPG on the highway. These figures are similar, showing the engine’s consistent efficiency across different driving conditions. Stop-and-go traffic impacts fuel consumption, but the Duramax’s low-end torque reduces the need for heavy acceleration, helping to maintain decent city MPG. On the highway, the 10-speed automatic transmission allows the engine to cruise at a relaxed pace, also improving fuel efficiency.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2024 Chevrolet Silverado 4WD ZR2 3.0L diesel at $2,650. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and national average fuel prices. Diesel prices can change based on location and time of year, which will affect real-world costs. Driving habits, terrain, and maintenance also influence the final fuel bill. This figure provides a starting point for understanding fuel costs when considering purchasing this truck. You can research all Chevrolet fuel economy data on our site.

Real-world expectations

EPA estimates are a standard benchmark, but real-world MPG often differs. ZR2 owners often add larger tires, aftermarket bumpers, roof racks, and other accessories that add weight and increase aerodynamic drag, which lowers fuel economy. Off-road driving, especially in sand or mud, puts stress on the engine, resulting in lower MPG. Expect around 17-19 MPG in mixed driving and even less on challenging trails. A careful driver who prioritizes efficiency can get close to the EPA numbers, but that is not typical for ZR2 owners.

How it compares

The ZR2 diesel offers better fuel economy than its gasoline-powered versions. The 6.2L V8 Silverado ZR2 achieves 15 MPG combined. The Ford Raptor with its 3.5L EcoBoost V6 gets around 15 MPG combined, highlighting the diesel’s appeal for those wanting range and efficiency. Even a standard 4WD Silverado with the 5.3L V8 typically gets around 18 MPG combined. The RAM 1500 TRX is not available with a diesel, and its gasoline version has MPG in the single digits. These numbers show the diesel’s position in the off-road truck market, offering fuel efficiency without sacrificing capability. See SILVERADO MPG across all years to see how this stacks up.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Minimize idling time. The Duramax diesel consumes fuel when stationary. Avoid long periods of idling, especially in cold weather, as it lowers fuel economy. Consider using the auto stop/start feature when appropriate to save fuel during short stops.

Maintain proper tire inflation. Low tire pressure increases rolling resistance, making the engine work harder and consume more fuel. Check your tire pressure regularly and match it to the recommended settings on the door jamb sticker. This can improve MPG.

Drive smoothly and avoid aggressive acceleration. Rapid acceleration and hard braking waste fuel. Drive smoothly, anticipate traffic, and maintain a consistent speed. Avoid flooring the accelerator, especially when towing or hauling heavy loads.

Service your vehicle regularly. Routine maintenance, including oil changes, air filter replacements, and fuel filter replacements, keeps the engine running well and efficiently. Neglecting these tasks can decrease performance and lower fuel economy. Follow the maintenance schedule in the owner’s manual.

Consider a tonneau cover. Covering the bed of your ZR2 can improve its aerodynamics and reduce drag, improving fuel economy on the highway. A hard or soft tonneau cover can enhance MPG on long trips.