The 2020 Chevrolet Colorado 2WD with the 2.8L Duramax diesel gets 23 MPG combined, which is respectable. This truck isn’t for buyers wanting Prius-like efficiency. It’s for those who need a capable, reliable workhorse providing decent fuel economy for its class. The Colorado diesel appeals to contractors, outdoors enthusiasts who tow small campers or boats, and anyone who values the torque and longevity of a diesel engine in a mid-size package. They accept the fuel consumption as a tradeoff for what the diesel provides.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2020 Colorado 2WD diesel are 20 MPG in the city and 30 MPG on the highway. That 10 MPG difference shows the engine’s strength on long, steady cruises. The highway figure is impressive for a truck, even a mid-size one. The city number is more typical, reflecting the stop-and-go nature of urban driving, which negates some of the diesel’s efficiency benefits. The 6-speed automatic transmission is geared to optimize fuel economy, especially at highway speeds where it helps keep the engine in its sweet spot. A lighter foot during acceleration helps significantly in urban environments.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA calculates the annual fuel cost for the 2020 Chevrolet Colorado 2WD diesel at exactly $2,400. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with a mix of city and highway driving that aligns with the EPA’s combined MPG rating. The calculation assumes a national average fuel price, which will fluctuate throughout the year. Actual fuel costs will vary depending on individual driving habits, local fuel prices, and even seasonal weather conditions. However, $2,400 provides a solid baseline for budgeting annual fuel expenses.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates offer a standardized benchmark, real-world fuel economy can vary significantly. Drivers report numbers slightly above or below the official numbers, depending on their driving style and usage patterns.

Consistently heavy loads, frequent towing, or aggressive driving will decrease fuel economy. Gentle acceleration, anticipating traffic flow, and adhering to speed limits can help drivers achieve or even exceed the EPA estimates. Diesel engines often deliver their best fuel economy after they’re fully broken in, so expect slight improvements after the first few thousand miles.

How it compares

The 2020 Colorado 2WD diesel competes against other mid-size trucks, some of which offer comparable or even slightly better fuel economy depending on configuration and engine choice. For instance, the gasoline-powered Toyota Tacoma 2WD with its 2.7L 4-cylinder engine achieves an EPA-estimated 20 MPG combined. While that’s close to the Colorado diesel’s city figure, the Tacoma lacks the diesel’s torque. The Nissan Frontier, with its older V6 engine, gets around 19 MPG combined in 2WD guise.

Comparing the Colorado 2WD diesel with all Chevrolet fuel economy data reveals its position as one of the most fuel-efficient trucks in the Chevy lineup, specifically designed for those needing capability without sacrificing too much at the pump. Reviewing COLORADO MPG across all years shows how this engine has evolved over time. The Colorado diesel balances fuel economy with the specific needs of its target buyer, a factor other trucks may not equally prioritize.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The Duramax diesel in the Colorado responds well to smooth, deliberate driving. Avoid aggressive acceleration and hard braking, as these actions significantly decrease fuel economy, especially in city driving. Gentle throttle inputs allow the engine to operate in its most efficient range, maximizing the amount of work extracted from each gallon of diesel.

Regular maintenance is critical for optimal fuel economy. Ensure the engine air filter is clean, the oil is fresh, and the tires are properly inflated. A dirty air filter restricts airflow, forcing the engine to work harder. Low tire pressure increases rolling resistance, impacting fuel consumption. Following the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule is money well spent.

Minimize idling whenever possible. Diesel engines consume fuel even when stationary, and prolonged idling wastes gas. If you anticipate being stopped for more than a minute or two, it’s generally more fuel-efficient to turn off the engine and restart it. This is important in urban environments with frequent traffic lights.

Consider the impact of cargo and accessories. Adding a heavy bed cap, roof rack, or carrying unnecessary weight in the bed will reduce fuel economy. Remove any items that are not essential for your daily driving, and prioritize lightweight alternatives when choosing accessories. Even the type of tires used can influence fuel consumption.

Use cruise control on long highway drives. Cruise control helps maintain a consistent speed, reducing unnecessary acceleration and deceleration. This feature allows the engine to operate more efficiently, especially on relatively flat terrain. Disengage cruise control when navigating hilly areas or encountering significant traffic changes.