The Last Half-Ton Diesel Pickup in America: 30 MPG and Big-Truck Capability

In a market that has largely abandoned diesel for half-ton pickups, one manufacturer still offers a compression-ignition option: the 2025 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Duramax. It stands alone as America’s only new half-ton diesel pickup, a distinction that makes it a fascinating case study in efficiency and capability. During a recent drive, the truck impressed with a remarkable 30 miles per gallon on the highway and a towing experience that rivaled larger, heavier-duty models.

Under the hood sits a 3.0-liter inline-six Duramax diesel engine, producing 305 horsepower and 495 pound-feet of torque. That torque figure is the key to its hauling prowess. Mated to a smooth-shifting 10-speed automatic transmission, the powertrain delivers effortless acceleration and confident passing power, even when loaded. The EPA rates the Silverado 1500 diesel at up to 26 mpg combined (23 city / 31 highway) in two-wheel-drive form, but real-world highway runs can exceed 30 mpg under light loads. That’s a significant advantage over gasoline V8s, which typically return mid-to-high teens in combined driving.

What makes this truck so compelling is its blend of efficiency and work ethic. With a maximum trailering rating of up to 13,300 pounds when properly equipped, the diesel Silverado can handle tasks that would strain many half-ton gas trucks, yet it does so without the thirst. The inline-six’s low-end torque allows it to pull away from a stop with minimal drama, and the exhaust brake feature helps control speed on descents. Inside, the cabin is quiet and comfortable, with minimal diesel clatter—a testament to modern NVH engineering.

Of course, the half-ton diesel segment has shrunk dramatically. Ram discontinued its EcoDiesel V6 in 2023, and Ford dropped the Power Stroke V6 from the F-150 lineup after 2021. That leaves the Silverado as the sole survivor. For buyers who prioritize fuel economy and towing capability, it’s a standout choice. But it comes at a premium: the Duramax engine adds roughly $2,500 to $3,000 over the standard 5.3-liter V8, and it’s only available on higher trim levels. Still, for those who rack up highway miles or frequently tow, the fuel savings and effortless torque could justify the cost.

As automakers pivot toward electrification, the half-ton diesel’s days may be numbered. But for now, the Silverado 1500 Duramax proves that diesel still has a place in the light-duty truck world—delivering the kind of real-world efficiency and capability that few gasoline or electric trucks can match today.