16 MPG combined is the fuel economy for the 2024 Chevrolet Silverado Cab Chassis 2WD with the 5.3L V8. No one expects Prius-like efficiency in this workhorse. This is a vehicle bought primarily for raw capability. Contractors, tradesmen, and upfitters purchase it to build the exact truck they need for their business. Fuel economy is a necessary cost of doing business, a tax on the power and potential.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates 15 MPG in the city and 18 MPG on the highway. These figures reflect the inherently inefficient nature of a large displacement gasoline engine moving a heavy, commercially-focused vehicle. The 10-speed automatic transmission optimizes the power delivery and keeps the engine in its sweet spot, but physics dictates the outcome. Expect the city MPG to potentially drop further if you are frequently loaded down with heavy equipment or navigating stop-and-go traffic. On the highway, maintaining a steady speed will help you achieve numbers closer to the EPA estimate, but aerodynamic drag is always a factor with these boxy chassis cabs.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the estimated annual fuel cost for the 2024 Chevrolet Silverado Cab Chassis 2WD 5.3L 8-cyl is $2,750. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and assumes current national average fuel prices. This is just an estimate, and your actual fuel costs may vary depending on your driving habits, the types of roads you drive on, and gasoline prices. Those who rely on this vehicle for their livelihood will likely exceed the 15,000 mile mark, increasing the yearly cost. See all Chevrolet fuel economy data to see how the broader Chevrolet lineup fares.

Real-world expectations

The EPA numbers are a useful benchmark, but real-world fuel economy will vary. Payload, towing, and upfitting significantly impact fuel consumption. The more weight you add, the harder the engine has to work, and the more fuel it burns. Aggressive driving, frequent idling, and neglecting routine maintenance will also negatively affect your mileage. Owners looking at SILVERADO MPG across all years might be coming from older trucks rated far lower, which gives them some perspective on progress. Regional variations in fuel blends and driving conditions can also play a role.

How it compares

It’s important to understand where this Silverado Cab Chassis stands compared to competitors. The Ford F-350 Chassis Cab with its standard 6.8L V8 is rated at 14 MPG combined. Ram’s 3500 Chassis Cab with the 6.4L Hemi V8 offers an identical 16 MPG combined figure, matching the Silverado. These vehicles all exist in the same performance space because they’re designed for similar tasks. Diesel options exist, and they do improve fuel economy, but at a significant upfront cost premium. The buyer of the gas-powered Silverado Cab Chassis is choosing a more accessible entry point, they accept the fuel economy penalty.

Tips to maximize efficiency

While the Silverado Cab Chassis prioritizes capability over fuel efficiency, there are steps you can take to improve your mileage. Regular maintenance, including air filter replacements and timely oil changes, ensures the engine runs optimally. A clean air filter allows the engine to breathe easier, and fresh oil reduces friction, which contributes to better fuel economy.

Tire pressure plays a significant role in fuel efficiency. Make sure your tires are properly inflated to the recommended pressure, which can be found on the tire placard typically located on the driver’s side doorjamb. Underinflated tires create more rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder.

Reduce unnecessary weight. Hauling extra tools or materials that aren’t needed for a particular job adds to the vehicle’s load and decreases fuel economy. This is especially relevant since you’re probably adding a heavy body or equipment package to begin with.

Practice smooth driving habits. Avoid rapid acceleration and hard braking, as these actions consume more fuel. Anticipate traffic and maintain a steady speed. Using cruise control on the highway can help you maintain a consistent speed and improve fuel efficiency.

Minimize idling time. Idling burns fuel without covering any distance. If you anticipate being stopped for more than a minute or two, it’s best to turn off the engine. Restarting the engine consumes less fuel than idling for extended periods.