The 2015 Chevrolet Colorado 4WD with the 3.6L V6 engine gets an EPA-estimated 20 MPG combined. It’s the expected fuel efficiency for a versatile mid-size truck, offering capability that full-size truck owners often don’t even need. This Colorado configuration is good for buyers who want a truck bed, occasional 4WD, and the power of a V6, but who also want better maneuverability and better fuel efficiency than you can get with a full-size Silverado. They understand compromise, and this fuel economy fits their requirements.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2015 Chevrolet Colorado 4WD 3.6L achieves 17 MPG in city driving and 24 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects stop-and-go conditions where the truck’s weight and the engine’s fuel consumption become more apparent. The highway number is more acceptable, suggesting reasonable fuel consumption during longer trips. The six-speed automatic transmission helps, by optimizing engine speed for decent efficiency at cruising speeds. However, that 3.6L V6 needs to work to overcome the aerodynamic challenges of a truck, even a mid-size truck, especially with four-wheel drive. Without 4WD, the rear-wheel-drive version gets a slightly better 18 city / 26 highway MPG.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA calculates the annual fuel cost for this Colorado configuration at $2,200. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with a mix of city and highway driving that reflects the combined MPG figure. It also uses the national average fuel price, which changes, so your actual cost could be higher or lower depending on local prices. The $2,200 annual fuel expense should be considered when deciding if the Colorado is right for you, balancing it against the capability and practicality it provides.

Real-world expectations

Achieving the EPA numbers may be difficult for many Colorado owners. Hauling cargo, using four-wheel drive, or frequently driving in hilly terrain will reduce fuel economy. Expect the combined MPG to drop into the high teens under these conditions. However, careful drivers who mainly use the Colorado for commuting and errands, and who drive efficiently, may get closer to the EPA estimates. Tire pressure, vehicle maintenance, and driving style all affect real-world fuel consumption.

How it compares

The 2015 Chevrolet Colorado’s fuel economy is competitive. The Toyota Tacoma, with its 3.5L V6 and four-wheel drive, has similar EPA estimates of around 18 city / 22 highway MPG, proving the trucks are very similar. The Nissan Frontier, although an older design, also gets around 16 city / 22 highway MPG with its 4.0L V6 and 4WD. For those considering a full-size truck, the Chevrolet Silverado 1500 with its 4.3L V6 and 4WD offers similar real-world fuel economy to the Colorado, but its larger size makes it less practical as a commuter for many buyers. Check COLORADO MPG across all years since later model years received updates that incrementally improved the fuel economy.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Avoid using four-wheel drive unless needed. Operating in 2WD reduces drivetrain friction and improves fuel economy, especially on paved roads. The Colorado’s part-time 4WD system isn’t designed for continuous use on dry pavement, so only engage it when necessary for traction.

Keep proper tire inflation. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Check your tires regularly and inflate them to the pressure specified on the doorjamb sticker.

Avoid aggressive driving habits. Rapid acceleration, hard braking, and high speeds drastically reduce fuel economy. Accelerate gradually, anticipate stops, and maintain a steady speed on the highway. The Colorado’s V6 is responsive, but using its power will reduce fuel efficiency.

Reduce unnecessary weight. Carrying extra cargo increases the vehicle’s load, impacting fuel efficiency. Remove any unnecessary items from the truck bed or cabin to lighten the load and improve MPG.

Consider a lightweight tonneau cover for the bed. A tonneau cover can slightly improve aerodynamics by reducing turbulence and wind resistance in the bed, which could result in a small increase in fuel economy. Keep an eye on all Chevrolet fuel economy data to stay apprised of new fuel saving tips.