Owners of the 2020 Chevrolet Colorado 4WD with the 3.6L V6 get 19 MPG combined. It’s a figure that won’t win any awards for cars with lower fuel costs, but it’s a trade-off accepted by those who need the capabilities of a mid-size truck with four-wheel drive. These are buyers who prioritize bed space, towing capacity, and off-road readiness over less gas. They’re often choosing between this Colorado and other trucks in its class, not a hybrid sedan. This Colorado configuration is often chosen by those who frequently tow, haul gear to job sites, or venture off the pavement. They’re willing to spend a bit more at the pump for the extra power and utility.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates paint a picture of a vehicle best suited for highway cruising, relatively speaking. The Colorado 4WD 3.6L manages 17 MPG in the city. This reflects the stop-and-go driving and the engine’s need to work harder to get the truck moving from a standstill. Out on the open road, the highway rating climbs to 24 MPG. This improvement is due to the consistent speeds and the effective use of the 8-speed automatic transmission, which allows the engine to operate at lower RPMs when cruising. These numbers show where the Colorado will perform best, and where its drivers can expect to use considerably more fuel.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2020 Chevrolet Colorado 4WD 3.6L at $2,300. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Remember that this is strictly an estimate. If you drive significantly more (or less) than 15,000 miles annually, your actual fuel costs will vary. Fuel prices are not static and can fluctuate considerably depending on your location and market conditions. However, the $2,300 figure provides a standardized benchmark for comparing the Colorado’s fuel expense with other vehicles. You can find all Chevrolet fuel economy data on our site to further your research.

Real-world expectations

The EPA provides standardized testing, but real-world mileage can differ significantly. Factors such as driving style, terrain, and cargo weight all impact fuel consumption. Aggressive acceleration, frequent braking, and consistently hauling heavy loads will negatively affect MPG. Owners who primarily drive on flat terrain, adhere to posted speed limits, and practice smooth driving habits are more likely to achieve numbers closer to the EPA estimates. One factor that is difficult to control is the amount of idling that occurs. Frequent idling can significantly reduce fuel economy, especially in colder climates.

How it compares

The 2020 Chevrolet Colorado 4WD 3.6L exists in a competitive mid-size truck segment. Consider the Toyota Tacoma 4×4 with its 3.5L V6, which achieves a similar EPA rating of 18 MPG combined. The Ford Ranger 4×4 with its 2.3L EcoBoost engine often boasts slightly better fuel economy, around 20 MPG combined. The Nissan Frontier, with its older V6 engine, lags behind at 17 MPG combined in its 4×4 configuration. These differences, while seemingly small, can add up over time. The Colorado’s buyers accept the middle-of-the-road fuel economy because often they prefer its interior design, available features, or towing capacity compared to the other options. You can view COLORADO MPG across all years on our website.

Tips to maximize efficiency

One simple strategy is to monitor your tire pressure regularly. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Consult the sticker on your driver’s side doorjamb for the recommended tire pressure, and check your tires at least once a month, or before any long trip.

Avoid unnecessary idling. Modern engines do not need extended warm-up periods, and idling for more than a minute or two wastes fuel. If you anticipate a prolonged stop, simply turn off the engine. This is even more critical during the cold winter months, as the temptation to warm up the engine can significantly impact your MPG.

Consider removing any unnecessary weight from the truck bed or cabin. Every extra pound adds to the engine’s workload, reducing fuel efficiency. Remove any tools, equipment, or other items that are not essential for your daily driving needs.

Drive smoothly and avoid aggressive acceleration or braking. Anticipate traffic flow and maintain a steady speed whenever possible. Gradual acceleration and smooth braking not only improve fuel economy but also reduce wear and tear on your vehicle’s components.