At Jim Butler Chevy of St. Louis, the 2024 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 ZR2 doesn’t just play in the off-road pickup game—it owns it. While other trucks settle for mediocre fuel efficiency, the Silverado ZR2 raises the bar. Rival brands can keep trying, but the Silverado’s 3.0-liter Duramax turbodiesel I-6 engine blows past the competition, boasting an EPA-estimated 20 mpg that leaves others in the dust. The Silverado ZR2 proves that power and efficiency can go hand-in-hand, delivering impressive performance without compromise.
After eight months and 16,000 miles behind the wheel, the Silverado ZR2’s performance has been impressive, averaging 18.8 mpg. During a 2,600-mile stretch with the truck at full towing capacity, it achieved 20.9 mpg. On long highway trips, fuel economy even climbed into the mid-20s. The Motor Trend journalist crew, intrigued by the impressive range, embarked on a road trip to test its limits, setting their sights on the Oceano Dunes State Vehicular Recreation Area as their destination.
The Oceano Dunes Adventure
Oceano Dunes is a unique spot for off-roading, as it’s the only coastal area in California allowing off-highway vehicles like motorcycles, ATVs, and side-by-sides. While exploring the dunes was tempting, the primary goal was to test the Silverado ZR2’s fuel efficiency. With an EPA highway rating of up to 27 mpg, the crew aimed for 25.8 mpg. The truck's 24-gallon fuel tank set the range target at 648 miles.
The planned route to Oceano Dunes covered 686 miles. To enhance fuel efficiency, the trip was conducted at a steady 58 mph, just above California’s truck and trailer limit, and air conditioning was turned off, with windows closed to improve fuel economy by 3-10%.
Prepping for the Trip
Before setting off, the Silverado underwent a 15,000-mile service that included an oil change, tire rotation, and the addition of Hot Shot’s Secret Diesel Extreme fuel additive. A hard-folding Extang Endure ALX tonneau cover was added to secure the truck bed and improve aerodynamics. An infotainment update enhanced route planning, syncing with Google Maps for precise navigation.
On the Road
Departing at 4:00 a.m. amid a record-breaking heatwave, the Silverado started strong. After 100 miles, it averaged 35 mpg, which rose to 35.9 mpg by the 150-mile mark. Although a diesel particulate filter (DPF) regeneration cycle temporarily affected fuel economy, the Silverado remained well above its 27-mpg target. Scenic routes along Route 101 and Highway 1 provided stunning ocean views and a quick beach stop for a refreshing break.
By the 340-mile mark, the truck was still cruising with an impressive 33.1 mpg. Though it hadn't quite reached the halfway point, the Silverado pressed on, tackling high temperatures and miles of varied terrain with ease.
Home Stretch
The next day, the Silverado mirrored the first, setting out again at 4 a.m. and completing another DPF regeneration cycle around mile 550. When the "Low Fuel" light appeared at 759 miles, it was clear that the truck had surpassed expectations. The trip reached 800 miles as the Silverado switched from freeway driving to city streets for the final stretch.
The moment of truth arrived at 826.8 miles when the truck finally coasted to a stop. With a quick gallon of diesel, it was back on the road, but drivers are advised not to let diesel engines run dry, as it can strain the engine.
Breaking New Ground in Fuel Efficiency
Chevy’s 3.0-liter Duramax diesel engine has a strong reputation for fuel efficiency, and the Chevy Silverado 1500 ZR2 exceeds it by achieving 34.1 mpg, more than 12 mpg above its EPA highway rating. This performance underscores that fuel economy in the 30s is possible, especially on flatter terrain. The Silverado ZR2 redefines fuel efficiency for full-size trucks, making it a top choice for off-road adventures and daily driving.