2021 Chevy Silverado 1500 Gas vs. Diesel

The 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 is one of the most versatile light-duty pickup trucks in its class, offering four gas engines and one turbo-diesel engine. Although you can expect class-leading performance across the board, there are some differences between each of these engines to note. That’s why John Megel Chevrolet has put together the following comparison to help you decide which is right for you! Compare the new Silverado 1500 gas vs. diesel engines below to learn more about their individual specs, mpg ratings, and towing capacities. 

Silverado 1500 Gas vs. Diesel: Engine Options 

If you’re shopping for a regular, tried-and-true gas-powered engine, the Chevy Silverado 1500 offers the following engine choices: 

6.2: EcoTec3 V8 with Dynamic Fuel Management™

• 420 hp 
• 460 lb-ft of torque 
• 10-speed automatic transmission 
• Available on the High Country, LTZ, LT Trail Boss, RST, Custom Trail Boss configurations 

5.3L EcoTec3 V8 with Dynamic Fuel Managment™

• 355 hp 
• 383 lb-ft of torque 
• 8-speed automatic transmission (10-speed for the LT Trail Boss and High Country 4×4)
• Standard on the LT Trail Boss, LTZ, and High County configurations 
• Available on the LT and RST configurations 

4.3L EcoTec3 V6 with Active Fuel Managment™

• 285 hp 
• 305 lb-ft of torque 
• 6-speed automatic transmission 
• Standard on the WT, Custom, and Custom Trail Boss configurations 

2.7L Turbo with Active Fuel Managment™

• 310 hp 
• 348 lb-ft of torque 
• 8-speed automatic transmission 
• Standard on the LT and RST configurations 
• Available on the Custom and WT configurations 

Duramax® 3.0L I6 Turbo-Diesel 

The Chevy Silverado 1500 has one diesel engine in its lineup, which is available on four trim levels. Its specs are as follows: 

• 277 hp 
• 460 lb-ft of torque 
• Auto-stop/start technology 
• Available for the LT, RST, LTZ, and High Country configurations 

Silverado 1500 Gas Mileage 

One of the many benefits of diesel engines is increased fuel economy. As a light-duty pickup truck, the Silverado 1500 already achieves impressive mpg ratings due to its build. When you couple that with diesel technology, you can cruise right past Gainesville gas stations with a need for fewer fill-ups. Compare mpg ratings below: 

• 6.2L EcoTec3 V8 w/ Dynamic Fuel Management™: TBD 
• 5.3L EcoTec3 V8 w/ Dynamic Fuel Managment™: 16 mpg/21 mpg highway (LT Trail Boss; 4WD) 
• 4.3L EcoTec3 V6 w/ Active Fuel Managment™: 16 mpg city/21 mpg highway (WT; 2WD)
• 2.7L Turbo w/ Active Fuel Managment™: 20 mpg city/23 mpg highway (LT; 2WD) 
• Duramax® 3.0L I6 Turbo-Diesel: 23 mpg city/33 mpg highway (with 2WD) 

Silverado 1500 Gas vs. Diesel: Towing Capacities 

The Silverado 1500’s highest towing capacity is achieved by its 6.2L EcoTec3 V8 engine. This engine, paired with the Double Cab/Standard Bed RST 4×4 configuration, the Max Trailering Package, and 20-inch wheels, can tow up to 13,300 pounds. The Duramax® Turbo-Diesel engine can tow up to 9,500 pounds when paired with the Double Cab/Standard Bed/2WD or Crew Cab/Short Bed/2WD configurations. No matter which engine you choose, the Silverado 1500 makes towing a breeze! 

Test Drive a Silverado 1500 at John Megel Chevrolet! 

Now that you’ve had a chance to review the Silverado 1500’s diesel and gas engine specs, it’s time to get behind the wheel! Whether you want higher mpg ratings or a greater towing capacity, we’ll help you choose the perfect engine for Alpharetta roads or the job site. Contact us online or call us at (706) 525-7007 with any questions or to schedule a test drive in Dawsonville. Explore our new vehicle specials for great offers on brand-new Chevrolet trucks, such as the Silverado 1500!