The 2022 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 4WD with the 3.6L V6 gets 17 MPG combined. It’s not class-leading, and if lower fuel costs are your primary concern, this isn’t the right truck. Most ZR2 buyers are prioritizing off-road capability. They want a capable off-road truck straight from the factory, fully warrantied and ready to tackle tough trails. The cost of fuel is simply part of owning this truck.

City and highway performance

The ZR2’s EPA-estimated fuel economy is 16 MPG in the city and 18 MPG on the highway. That single MPG difference between city and highway driving indicates the ZR2’s intended purpose. This truck isn’t designed for long highway trips. Its knobby tires, off-road suspension, and aggressive design all increase rolling resistance and aerodynamic drag at higher speeds. It’s better suited to crawling over rocks and navigating tight trails, where that 16 MPG city rating is a more realistic reflection of its daily use.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2022 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 at $2,600. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, using a national average fuel price. Your actual fuel costs will vary based on your driving habits, the terrain, and fuel prices. If you’re often in 4-Low on challenging trails, expect that annual figure to climb higher. Budget accordingly. That’s the price for off-road performance.

Real-world expectations

EPA estimates are a baseline, and ZR2 owners often report slightly lower figures, especially if the truck is modified with larger tires, a roof rack, or additional armor. Aggressive driving, frequent off-roading, and short trips can quickly decrease fuel economy. Consider checking tire pressures and ensuring the truck is properly maintained if you’re consistently seeing numbers below the EPA estimates. Understand that the ZR2’s design favors off-road capability over fuel efficiency.

How it compares

The Colorado ZR2 isn’t the only fuel-hungry truck. The Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro, another off-road-focused midsize truck, gets an EPA-estimated 18 MPG combined from its 3.5L V6. The Jeep Gladiator Rubicon gets 19 MPG combined with its 3.6L V6 and automatic transmission. Even a full-size truck might not give you much better fuel economy. A comparable Chevrolet Silverado with a smaller lift and a Z71 package can struggle to hit 20 MPG combined. These numbers show that off-road performance usually means you’ll get worse mileage, regardless of truck size or manufacturer. For those interested in all Chevrolet fuel economy data, or specifically COLORADO MPG across all years, there is a wealth of information available. This shows the ZR2 buyer’s trade-off: lower fuel economy for off-road capability in a mid-size truck.

Tips to maximize efficiency

While the ZR2 drinks gas, some driving habits can help improve your MPG. Avoid aggressive acceleration and braking. The ZR2’s weight and suspension encourage a smoother driving style, which will improve fuel consumption. Plan routes to avoid stop-and-go traffic.

Ensure that your tires are properly inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended pressure. Low tire pressure increases rolling resistance and reduces fuel economy. The ZR2’s all-terrain tires are particularly sensitive to pressure changes.

Minimize extra weight. Hauling around extra gear adds to the ZR2’s weight, forcing the engine to work harder.

Consider the type of fuel you’re using. The ZR2 doesn’t require premium fuel, but using a higher-quality gasoline can sometimes improve performance and efficiency, especially when towing or off-roading.