21 MPG combined isn’t going to win any green awards, but for the 2022 Chevrolet Colorado 2WD with the 3.6L V6, it’s a perfectly acceptable compromise. This isn’t a truck bought by people prioritizing fuel efficiency above all else. This is a truck bought by contractors needing to haul materials, weekend warriors towing ATVs, and homeowners tackling projects that exceed the capabilities of a sedan. They accept the Colorado’s thirst for gasoline because it delivers capability without the bulk and expense of a full-size pickup.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the Colorado V6 2WD achieves 18 MPG in the city and 25 MPG on the highway. While the combined figure paints a broad picture, understanding the split is crucial. That 18 MPG city figure reflects the realities of stop-and-go traffic, frequent acceleration, and idling. Conversely, the 25 MPG highway rating suggests that on long trips, you can expect relatively reasonable fuel consumption. Drivers who primarily use their Colorado for commuting or running errands around town will likely see fuel economy closer to the city figure, while those who frequently embark on longer highway journeys can anticipate something nearer the stated highway MPG.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2022 Chevrolet Colorado 2WD V6 at $2,100. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and assumes national average fuel prices. Keep in mind that this is only an estimate; your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits, the type of driving you do (city vs. highway), and the ever-fluctuating price of gasoline. Aggressive driving, towing heavy loads, and living in areas with particularly high fuel costs will all increase your annual fuel expenditure. Use this $2,100 figure as a benchmark, but understand your real-world expenses may differ. See COLORADO MPG across all years to compare different powertrains.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standardized test cycle, real-world fuel economy often differs from the official numbers. Factors like driving style, road conditions, and even tire pressure can influence your MPG. If you tend to accelerate aggressively, frequently tow trailers, or neglect basic maintenance, you can expect your fuel economy to fall below the EPA estimates. Conversely, a smooth driving style, conscientious maintenance, and primarily highway driving can help you achieve or even exceed the EPA figures. The 3.6L V6 is known for its consistent, if not stellar, fuel economy, so diligent driving habits make a difference.

How it compares

The Colorado’s fuel economy is in a competitive range for mid-size trucks with gasoline V6 engines. The Toyota Tacoma, another popular choice in the segment, achieves a similar EPA-estimated combined MPG of around 20 MPG with its V6 engine and automatic transmission. The Nissan Frontier, redesigned for 2022, lands in a roughly equivalent space with around 20 MPG combined. The Ford Ranger, equipped with its 2.3L EcoBoost turbo four, provides a slightly better combined MPG, often achieving around 22 MPG. However, the Ranger appeals to a slightly different demographic, those prioritizing a turbocharged engine’s low-end torque over the smooth power delivery of a naturally aspirated V6 like the Colorado’s. If fuel economy is a top concern, the Ranger might be worth considering, but the Colorado’s V6 offers a different driving experience that some buyers prefer. You can see all Chevrolet fuel economy data on our site.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The Colorado 2WD comes equipped with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Use it to your advantage. Gentle acceleration allows the transmission to upshift smoothly and early, keeping the engine in its most efficient RPM range. Avoid aggressive acceleration, which forces the transmission to downshift and consume more fuel.

Tire pressure is critical. Check your tires regularly and ensure they are inflated to the recommended pressure listed on the sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which reduces fuel economy. Even a few PSI below the recommended pressure can have a noticeable impact over time.

Avoid unnecessary weight in the bed of the truck. Every extra pound you carry requires more energy to accelerate and maintain speed. Remove any items you don’t need from the bed or cab to improve fuel economy. This is especially relevant for contractors who often leave tools and materials in their trucks even when not needed.

Consider using cruise control on the highway. Cruise control helps maintain a consistent speed, reducing unnecessary acceleration and deceleration. This can improve fuel economy, especially on long trips with relatively flat terrain. However, avoid using cruise control in hilly areas, as the transmission may frequently downshift, negating any potential fuel savings.