The 2021 Chevrolet Colorado 2WD with the 3.6L V6 gets 21 MPG combined. This isn’t a fuel-sipping compact; it’s a capable mid-size truck. Buyers in this segment prioritize utility, payload, and ruggedness over outright efficiency, accepting the fuel cost. They’re often stepping up from a smaller, less capable vehicle, or downsizing from a full-size truck that proved overkill for their needs. The Colorado offers a good mix of capability and maneuverability.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates 18 MPG in the city and 25 MPG on the highway for this specific Colorado configuration. The city figure reflects the stop-and-go nature of urban driving, which constantly interrupts the engine’s most efficient operating range. Highway driving, with its steady speeds and fewer accelerations, allows the engine to settle into a more economical rhythm. However, even on the highway, remember that aerodynamics become a significant factor at higher speeds. Carrying loads or using accessories like roof racks will further impact your mileage.

Annual fuel cost

The Environmental Protection Agency pegs the annual fuel cost for the 2021 Chevrolet Colorado 2WD 3.6L V6 at $2,100. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Remember that your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits, the type of driving you do, and the fluctuating price of gasoline in your area. Consider this $2,100 figure a benchmark rather than a guaranteed cost.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standardized estimate, real-world fuel economy is rarely identical to the sticker. Aggressive driving, frequent short trips, and carrying heavy loads will all reduce your MPG. Gentle acceleration, consistent highway cruising, and diligent maintenance can help you achieve figures closer to, or even slightly exceeding, the EPA estimates. Pay attention to your driving habits; they have a tangible impact on your fuel bills.

How it compares

The Colorado’s fuel economy compares well against its competitors, though some offer advantages. The Toyota Tacoma, another popular mid-size truck, achieves around 20 MPG combined with its V6 and automatic transmission in 2WD configuration. The Nissan Frontier, prior to its 2022 redesign, languished around 19 MPG combined with its V6. The Ford Ranger, with its 2.3L EcoBoost engine, boasts slightly better numbers , typically around 23 MPG combined in 2WD form. These relatively small differences in MPG can influence the buying decision for those highly sensitive to fuel costs, but other factors like capability, reliability, or personal preference often dominate.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Minimize aggressive acceleration. The 3.6L V6 offers ample power, but using it liberally translates directly into wasted fuel. Smooth, gradual acceleration allows the engine and transmission to operate in their most efficient ranges. Anticipate traffic flow and avoid hard braking whenever possible.

Maintain proper tire pressure. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Check your tire pressure regularly, ideally every week, and inflate them to the pressures recommended on the sticker inside your driver’s side door. Also, consider the type of tires you use. A tire with a more aggressive tread would typically have a lower MPG due to added friction.

Avoid extended idling. Idling consumes fuel without covering any distance. If you’re stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. Modern vehicles are designed to restart quickly and efficiently, making excessive idling a drain on your fuel tank.

Lighten your load. Excess weight reduces fuel economy. Remove any unnecessary items from the bed and cab of your Colorado to reduce the burden on the engine. Even small amounts of extra weight can add up over time.

Consider your driving environment. Hilly terrain and frequent starts/stops will significantly reduce MPG. If possible, plan routes that minimize these factors. Even seemingly small changes in altitude can have a large effect on efficiency.

Interested in seeing all Chevrolet fuel economy data? Or perhaps you would like to examine the COLORADO MPG across all years?