Quick look: The 2026 Silverado 1500 with the 3.0L Duramax diesel leads traditional MPG at 23 city / 29 highway. The Silverado 2500HD and 3500HD are not EPA-rated, but the diesel versions deliver ~14-17 MPG unloaded. The Silverado EV offers up to 493 miles of range on select configurations. Fort Washington Chevrolet serves Marlow Heights, Alexandria, and Waldorf.
How do the 2026 Silverado models compare on fuel economy?
Fuel economy is not a one-size-fits-all answer for the 2026 Chevrolet Silverado lineup. The Silverado 1500 offers EPA-rated MPG with multiple gas and diesel engines. The 2500HD and 3500HD are heavy-duty trucks, so they do not have official EPA ratings. The Silverado EV measures efficiency in miles of range. Here is how each model stacks up for your commute around Fort Washington, Marlow Heights, or Alexandria.
What is the MPG for the 2026 Silverado 1500?
The 2026 Silverado 1500 offers several powertrains. The most efficient option is the 3.0L Duramax Turbo-Diesel, which delivers an EPA-estimated 23 MPG city and 29 MPG highway on 2WD models. That is genuine long-haul efficiency for highway driving. Gas engines are honest but less efficient. The 5.3L V8 delivers about 16 city / 21 highway, while the 6.2L V8 focuses on performance with 15 city / 20 highway. The 2.7L Turbo provides a solid middle ground at 18 city / 22 highway.
For drivers in Waldorf or Alexandria, the Duramax diesel makes the most sense if you cover a lot of highway miles. The fuel savings over time can offset the initial cost, especially with diesel prices stabilizing.
| Engine | Drivetrain | City MPG | Highway MPG |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2.7L Turbo | 2WD | 18 | 22 |
| 2.7L Turbo | 4WD | 17 | 20 |
| 5.3L V8 | 2WD | 16 | 21 |
| 5.3L V8 | 4WD | 15 | 20 |
| 6.2L V8 | 4WD | 15 | 20 |
| 3.0L Duramax Diesel | 2WD | 23 | 29 |
| 3.0L Duramax Diesel | 4WD | 22 | 27 |
EPA-estimated figures. Actual mileage will vary based on driving conditions, towing, and vehicle configuration. 2WD models typically achieve slightly better MPG.
Why do the Silverado 2500HD and 3500HD not have EPA ratings?
The 2026 Silverado 2500HD and 3500HD are classified as heavy-duty vehicles with a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) above 8,500 pounds. The EPA does not test them for fuel economy because their fuel consumption changes so much based on load and towing. So what can you expect? Real-world reports typically put the 6.6L gas V8 in the 11-14 MPG range. The 6.6L Duramax diesel is usually better, averaging around 14-17 MPG when unloaded. These numbers drop quickly when you are towing or hauling heavy loads.
If fuel economy is your top concern, consider the 1500 or the EV. But if you need to tow a 15,000-pound trailer or haul construction materials, the HD trucks are built for that job, not for MPG bragging rights.
How far can the 2026 Silverado EV go on a charge?
The 2026 Silverado EV is a completely different approach. You do not buy gas, but you need to think about range. EPA data shows that some configurations offer 493 miles of total range. Other trims offer ranges around 385 to 424 miles. That makes it a viable option for daily drivers and even some longer trips. However, range estimates are ideal numbers. A cold Maryland winter, high-speed driving on I-495, or a heavy trailer will reduce your range significantly. If you do most of your driving around Fort Washington, the EV is a great choice. But if you routinely tow heavy loads, a diesel 1500 or HD might be a safer bet.
Silverado MPG & range at a glance
| Model | Best Fuel Economy / Range | EPA Rating? | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1500 3.0L Duramax | 23 City / 29 Highway MPG | Yes | Commuting, light towing, long road trips |
| 1500 Gas V8 (5.3L/6.2L) | 15-17 MPG combined | Yes | Daily driving with classic V8 power |
| 2500HD / 3500HD | ~14-17 MPG (diesel, unloaded) | No | Heavy towing, payload, construction, farm work |
| Silverado EV | Up to 493 miles range | Yes (MPGe) | Daily commuting, local trips, gas station avoidance |
All figures based on manufacturer and EPA estimates. Actual mileage will vary based on driving conditions, towing, and vehicle configuration.
How does towing affect Silverado MPG and range?
Towing is the great equalizer. A properly equipped 2026 Silverado 1500 can tow up to 13,300 pounds. That is a lot of boat or camper. But when you hook up a trailer, the MPG goes down. You might see 14-16 MPG on flat ground with the diesel, and considerably less in hilly terrain. The 2500HD and 3500HD are not rated for MPG, but their diesel engines are designed to handle heavy loads without straining, which helps maintain reasonable fuel consumption compared to the gas V8s. EV range can drop by 50% or more with a heavy trailer, so plan your charging stops accordingly.
Find your Silverado at Fort Washington Chevrolet
We are located at 11001 Indian Head Hwy, Fort Washington, MD 20744. We know that a truck needs to handle the roads around Marlow Heights, Alexandria, and Waldorf. We carry a large inventory of 2026 Silverado models, including the 1500, 2500HD, 3500HD, and the new EV. Our team is here to help you compare Silverado fuel economy and real-world range for each model. Come see us and take a test drive.
Sales: 240-724-1006 | Service: 240-724-4130
Frequently asked questions about Silverado MPG
The 2026 Silverado 1500 with the 3.0L Duramax diesel and rear-wheel drive offers the best traditional fuel economy. EPA estimates show it can achieve up to 29 MPG on the highway.
Heavy-duty trucks like the 2500HD and 3500HD have a GVWR over 8,500 pounds and are exempt from EPA fuel economy testing. Their fuel consumption is highly dependent on load and towing, so a single MPG number would be misleading.
According to EPA data, some 2026 Silverado EV configurations offer up to 493 miles of range, while others provide 385 to 424 miles, depending on the battery pack and equipment.
Yes. Towing significantly reduces both MPG in gas/diesel models and range in the EV. A 1500 Duramax that gets 29 MPG unloaded might see 14-16 MPG when towing. EV range can drop by 50% or more with a heavy trailer.
When properly equipped, the 2026 Silverado 1500 can tow up to 13,300 pounds. This makes it a versatile choice for towing boats, campers, and car haulers around the Fort Washington area.
For many drivers in the Fort Washington area, 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.
*The Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price excludes destination freight charge, tax, title, license, dealer fees and optional equipment. Click here to see all Chevrolet vehicles' destination freight charges. Dealer sets the final price.
EPA-estimated MPG for 2026 Silverado 1500. Actual mileage will vary. Heavy-duty Silverado 2500HD and 3500HD are not EPA-rated. Silverado EV range estimates based on EPA testing. Actual range will vary based on driving conditions, towing, battery age, and temperature. Towing capacity requires proper equipment. Always consult the owner's manual and verify with your dealer.