16 MPG combined isn’t going to win any awards, but the 2015 Chevrolet Colorado Cab Chassis 2WD 3.6L isn’t trying to be a fuel sipper. This is a truck built for a purpose: providing a solid, reliable platform for businesses and individuals who need a customizable work vehicle. Think landscaping companies hauling equipment, contractors mounting specialized service bodies, or even small businesses building mobile workshops. For them, fuel economy is a consideration, but it’s often secondary to capability and versatility.

City and highway performance

Those 16 combined MPG break down to 15 MPG in the city and 18 MPG on the highway. The city rating reflects the stop-and-go conditions and heavier throttle use often associated with commercial applications. The highway number, while not stellar, is probably more representative of how owner-operators use this vehicle on longer trips between job sites or for material runs. The 3.6L V6 delivers adequate power for most tasks, but it does need to work to move the Colorado Cab Chassis, especially when it’s loaded down with cargo or a specialized body.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates an annual fuel cost of $2,750 for this particular configuration of the Colorado Cab Chassis. This calculation assumes 15,000 miles driven per year, using national average fuel prices. Of course, your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits, the actual price of gasoline in your area, and how heavily loaded you typically run the vehicle. Someone using this truck for light-duty tasks and shorter commutes might see a lower annual cost, while a contractor constantly hauling heavy materials will almost certainly exceed that figure.

Real-world expectations

Don’t expect to consistently achieve the EPA numbers in real-world use. The Colorado Cab Chassis, by its very nature, is often heavily customized and subjected to demanding work conditions. The added weight of specialized bodies, tools, and materials invariably impacts fuel economy. Aggressive driving, frequent idling, and stop-and-go traffic will further degrade those numbers. Expect a range of 13-17 MPG in typical work environments.

How it compares

Compared to other mid-size trucks in 2015, the Colorado Cab Chassis isn’t a standout in fuel economy. A similarly equipped Toyota Tacoma Access Cab 2WD with its 2.7L four-cylinder engine managed around 21 MPG combined. Even the Nissan Frontier King Cab 2WD, with its larger 4.0L V6, achieved a comparable 17 MPG combined. What the Colorado Cab Chassis offers, though, is a modern platform and a powerful V6, which some buyers prioritize over marginal fuel savings. For those looking at all Chevrolet fuel economy data, it’s important to compare different configurations of the Colorado. The COLORADO MPG across all years can vary greatly depending on drivetrain and engine options. A four-cylinder, extended cab model will naturally outperform the V6 cab chassis.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Regular maintenance is important. Ensure that your tires are properly inflated, and that the engine is tuned properly. Something as simple as changing a dirty air filter can noticeably impact fuel economy on a vehicle working hard all day.

Drive smoothly and avoid aggressive acceleration. The 3.6L V6 has plenty of power, so there’s no need to stomp on the accelerator. Gradual acceleration and anticipating traffic flow will help conserve fuel.

Minimize idling. Excessive idling wastes fuel and contributes to unnecessary wear and tear on the engine. If you’re going to be stopped for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine.

Consider the weight you’re carrying. Unnecessary weight significantly reduces fuel economy. Remove any tools or materials that you don’t need for the current job.

Plan your routes efficiently. Combining trips and avoiding congested areas can save you both time and fuel. Use GPS navigation to find the most direct and efficient routes.