2026 Chevy Silverado Fuel Economy: 1500, 2500 HD, 3500 HD, and EV
You drive Louisiana roads from Coliseum Blvd to the jobsites around Cenla. Fuel economy matters, and the Chevy Silverado lineup gives you a wide range of options. Southern Chevrolet carries the full Silverado family. Let's break down the Silverado fuel economy numbers for the 1500, 2500 HD, 3500 HD, and the Silverado EV. Each model approaches efficiency differently, so knowing the specifics can help you choose the right configuration for your Alexandria commute or workweek.
Quick look: Silverado MPG and range at a glance
- 2026 Silverado 1500 – Up to 29 MPG highway with the Duramax diesel. Gas models range from 16 to 22 MPG depending on engine and drivetrain.
- 2026 Silverado 2500 HD & 3500 HD – No EPA ratings. Real-world numbers: 11-17 MPG combined, with diesel versions getting better mileage.
- Silverado EV – Up to 450 miles of range on select configurations. Perfect for drivers ready to move away from fuel entirely.
Still unsure? Come see us at 5845 Coliseum Blvd, Alexandria, LA 71303 and we will show you real differences in person. Contact us to schedule a test drive.
How does Chevy measure truck fuel economy?
Light-duty trucks like the Silverado 1500 receive official EPA fuel economy ratings. These numbers cover city, highway, and combined driving. Heavy-duty trucks like the 2500 HD and 3500 HD do not receive EPA ratings because of their weight class. Their fuel economy is measured through real-world testing and owner reports. Fuel economy varies based on axle ratios, cab size, bed length, tire choice, and towing load. A truck with a lighter configuration and highway tires will return better gas mileage than one equipped for heavy towing.
How fuel-efficient is the 2026 Silverado 1500?
The 2026 Chevy Silverado 1500 offers several engines, and each has its own fuel economy profile. Here is what you can expect from each powertrain.
2.7L Turbo Engine
The 2.7L Turbo delivers strong torque and competitive mileage for a full-size truck. EPA-estimated numbers are around 18 MPG city / 22 MPG highway on 2WD models. 4WD models see slightly lower numbers, typically 17 city / 20 highway [citation:1].
5.3L V8
The 5.3L V8 is a good choice if you are looking for a balance of power and efficiency. EPA estimates are roughly 16 MPG city / 21 MPG highway in 2WD. 4WD models typically land 1 MPG lower in each category [citation:3].
6.2L V8
The 6.2L V8 focuses on performance, so its fuel economy reflects that. EPA estimates are about 15 MPG city / 20 MPG highway on 4WD models [citation:3]. This engine is not commonly paired with 2WD.
3.0L Duramax Diesel
The Duramax diesel engine stands out for its long-range fuel efficiency. EPA estimates reach up to 23 MPG city / 29 MPG highway on 2WD models. Even 4WD models can reach 27 MPG on the highway [citation:13][citation:14]. It offers best-in-class highway diesel fuel economy.
2026 Silverado 1500 MPG by trim and drivetrain
Since the 2026 Silverado 1500 is available with 4 engines and 2 drivetrains, its efficiency varies depending on the exact configuration you choose. For example, if you opt for a 2WD model, you can expect slightly better fuel economy around Alexandria. Here are the EPA-estimated mpg ratings by trim level and drivetrain:
| Trim | Drivetrain | City / Highway / Combined MPG |
|---|---|---|
| WT | 2WD | 18 / 21 / 19 |
| WT | 4WD | 17 / 20 / 18 |
| Custom | 2WD | 18 / 21 / 19 |
| Custom | 4WD | 17 / 20 / 18 |
| Custom Trail Boss | 4WD | 16 / 17 / 16 |
| LT | 2WD | 18 / 21 / 19 |
| LT | 4WD | 17 / 20 / 18 |
| RST | 2WD | 18 / 21 / 19 |
| RST | 4WD | 17 / 20 / 18 |
| LT Trail Boss | 4WD | 17 / 20 / 18 |
| LTZ | 2WD | 16 / 21 / 18 |
| LTZ | 4WD | 16 / 19 / 17 |
| High Country | 2WD | 16 / 21 / 18 |
| High Country | 4WD | 16 / 19 / 17 |
| ZR2 | 4WD | 20 / 23 / 21 |
Note: Fuel economy ratings are based on EPA estimates and may vary. Actual mileage will vary depending on driving conditions, driving habits, vehicle maintenance, and other factors.
Regardless of which configuration you choose, you will have access to the Automatic Stop/Start feature that helps boost your efficiency on the streets of Alexandria. With this feature, your engine shuts off automatically anytime you are at a complete stop. When you remove your foot from the brake, the engine restarts on its own.
What about the 2026 Silverado 2500 HD fuel economy?
Heavy-duty trucks don't receive EPA ratings, but real-world testing provides reliable estimates. The 2026 Silverado 2500 HD is built for work, and its fuel economy reflects that capability. The 6.6L Gas V8 delivers around 12-14 MPG combined depending on load and driving conditions. The 6.6L Duramax Diesel remains the preferred choice for towing and hauling. It typically achieves roughly 15-17 MPG combined, with highway numbers reaching 18 MPG during light load travel. Payload and trailer weight have a noticeable impact on HD truck mileage.
Learn more about the 2026 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD in Alexandria, LA.
How does the 2026 Silverado 3500 HD compare?
The Silverado 3500 HD mirrors the 2500 HD in engine choices but has heavier capability. Dual-rear-wheel setups add stability for towing, but reduce gas mileage. The 6.6L Gas V8 typically delivers around 11-13 MPG combined. The 6.6L Duramax Diesel achieves roughly 14-16 MPG combined, with highway numbers occasionally higher during unloaded travel. The 3500 HD is built for maximum towing, so its fuel economy reflects its purpose.
What is the Silverado EV range and efficiency?
The Silverado EV measures efficiency through driving range rather than MPG. Estimated range reaches up to 450 miles on select configurations. Range varies based on wheel size, battery pack, and towing load. Heavy trailers reduce range more noticeably than they do on gas or diesel trucks. Charging efficiency depends on battery temperature and charging speed. DC fast charging can add a lot of range in a short session, making longer trips more manageable.
Which Silverado is right for your Central Louisiana drive?
If you want the best fuel economy for daily driving and long hauls, the Duramax diesel 1500 is the clear winner. If you need heavy towing capability, the 2500 HD or 3500 HD with the Duramax diesel offer the best balance of power and efficiency. And if you are ready to go electric, the Silverado EV gives you impressive range for a full-size truck. Come test drive your favorite at Southern Chevrolet. We are right on Coliseum Blvd, ready to help you compare.
Frequently Asked Questions about Silverado Fuel Economy
The best Silverado fuel economy comes from the 3.0L Duramax diesel engine, which achieves up to 23 MPG city and 29 MPG highway on 2WD models. This makes it the most efficient option in the lineup [citation:13].
No, heavy-duty trucks like the Silverado 2500 HD and 3500 HD do not receive official EPA fuel economy ratings due to their weight class. Real-world estimates are typically used instead.
The Silverado EV offers an estimated range of up to 450 miles on select configurations. This range can vary based on wheel size, battery pack, and whether you are towing.
Yes, the 2026 Silverado 1500 includes an Automatic Stop/Start feature that helps improve fuel efficiency in city driving. The engine shuts off at complete stops and restarts when you release the brake.
For many drivers in Central Louisiana, the Duramax diesel is worth it. The fuel savings over time, especially for highway driving and long-distance towing, can offset the initial cost. It also provides best-in-class highway diesel fuel economy [citation:13].
Find your perfect Silverado at Southern Chevrolet
Visit Southern Chevrolet on Coliseum Blvd in Alexandria, LA. We have new Chevy Silverado 1500, 2500 HD, and the Silverado EV. Let's take a test drive on the streets you know. No high pressure, just honest advice from a hometown dealership.
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