22 MPG combined is an acceptable figure for the 2020 Chevrolet Colorado 4WD with the 2.8L Duramax diesel. Nobody buys this mid-size truck expecting Prius-like efficiency, but for its reliable towing capacity, its ability to navigate challenging terrain, and the diesel engine’s low-end torque. The fuel economy is simply a cost of doing business, a trade-off for capability that many owners gladly accept.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates provide a glimpse into the Colorado’s behavior in different driving environments. The 19 MPG city rating reflects the stop-and-go nature of urban driving, where the diesel engine’s weight and the automatic transmission’s shifting contribute to decreased efficiency. The 28 MPG highway rating is where the Colorado shows its potential. On long stretches of open road, the engine settles into a more efficient cruise, showcasing what the diesel powerplant can do when it’s not constantly accelerating and decelerating. These figures are based on standardized testing, and your personal results will vary.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2020 Chevrolet Colorado 4WD 2.8L diesel at $2,550. This figure is calculated based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with a mix of city and highway driving, using the national average fuel price for diesel. This is just an estimate. Your actual fuel costs will depend on how many miles you drive, the type of driving you do (city vs. highway), and, most importantly, the price of fuel in your area. Aggressive driving habits will also negatively impact your fuel bill.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA ratings offer a benchmark, real-world fuel economy often tells a different story. Drivers who primarily use their Colorado for commuting in congested areas are likely to see figures closer to, or even below, the 19 MPG city rating. Those who frequently embark on highway road trips could potentially exceed the 28 MPG highway estimate, especially with a light load. The key takeaway is that driving style and conditions play a significant role in determining the fuel efficiency of this truck. Towing, of course, will dramatically reduce fuel economy, expect to see numbers in the low teens or even single digits when hauling heavy loads. Off-roading will also negatively affect your MPG. Always check COLORADO MPG across all years to compare this year and engine to others.

How it compares

The 2020 Colorado’s fuel economy is competitive within the mid-size truck segment, especially when equipped with the diesel engine. The Toyota Tacoma, a perennial favorite, struggles to match the Colorado’s highway MPG, with the 4×4 V6 model achieving approximately 18 MPG city and 22 MPG highway. The gasoline-powered Colorado 4WD offers a similar combined MPG to the diesel, but lacks the same low-end torque. The Nissan Frontier, while a more affordable option, falls short in efficiency, with the 4×4 V6 delivering around 16 MPG city and 22 MPG highway. The Jeep Gladiator, known for its off-road ability, sacrifices some efficiency for its ruggedness, achieving around 19 MPG city and 22 MPG highway in its 4×4 configuration. These discrepancies highlight the trade-offs involved in choosing a mid-size truck, where factors like towing capacity, off-road capability, and fuel economy all come into play. If you are concerned about fuel economy, check out all Chevrolet fuel economy data.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Avoid aggressive acceleration, especially from a standstill. The diesel engine delivers its peak torque at low RPMs, so there’s no need to floor the accelerator to get up to speed. Gentle acceleration and smooth transitions will significantly improve fuel economy.

Maintain a consistent speed on the highway. Using cruise control can help prevent unnecessary speed fluctuations, leading to more efficient fuel consumption. Anticipate traffic flow and avoid sudden braking whenever possible, as this wastes energy.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which reduces fuel efficiency. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the manufacturer’s recommended pressure, typically found on a sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb.

Reduce unnecessary weight. The heavier your truck, the harder the engine has to work to move it, which in turn lowers fuel economy. Remove any unnecessary items from the bed and cab of the truck to reduce weight and improve efficiency.

Consider using a fuel additive designed for diesel engines. Some additives can help improve fuel combustion, resulting in better fuel economy and reduced emissions. Research different additives and choose one that is specifically formulated for diesel engines.