21 MPG combined won’t win any efficiency awards, but for the 2016 Chevrolet Colorado 4WD with the 2.5L four-cylinder engine, it’s a reasonable compromise for buyers who need truck utility but aren’t willing to pay more for the more powerful (and thirstier) V6. This is the work truck, the base model, the choice for those who prioritize affordability and capability over outright performance. These buyers understand that they’re not getting Prius-level fuel economy, but they also know they’re getting a truck that can haul building supplies, tow a small trailer, and navigate challenging terrain when needed. It’s a pragmatic choice, and the fuel economy, though not stellar, is part of that calculation.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2016 Chevrolet Colorado 4WD 2.5L will achieve 19 MPG in the city and 24 MPG on the highway. The lower city figure is typical of trucks; stop-and-go traffic and idling take a toll on fuel consumption. The highway number is more respectable, reflecting the engine’s ability to cruise efficiently at steady speeds. While neither figure is amazing, they are within the expected range for a four-wheel-drive truck of this size and configuration. Understand that aggressive driving, heavy acceleration, frequent braking, and high speeds, will significantly reduce these numbers. The 6-speed automatic transmission in this Colorado helps keep the engine in its optimal efficiency range on the highway, but can’t fully mitigate the inherent inefficiencies of driving a truck in urban environments.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the estimated annual fuel cost for the 2016 Chevrolet Colorado 4WD 2.5L is $2,100. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Keep in mind that this is just an estimate; your actual fuel costs will vary depending on the prices you pay at the pump and your individual driving habits. If you drive less than 15,000 miles annually, your fuel costs will be lower. Conversely, if you have a heavy foot or frequently drive in demanding conditions, expect to spend considerably more than $2,100 each year. Fuel prices fluctuate, so what the EPA estimated when the truck was new may not be what you experience today.

Real-world expectations

EPA estimates provide a useful baseline, but real-world fuel economy often differs. Owners of the 2016 Chevrolet Colorado 4WD 2.5L frequently report numbers that vary slightly from the official ratings. Some report achieving figures close to the EPA estimates when driving conservatively and predominantly on the highway. Others, especially those who use their trucks for work or frequently engage the four-wheel-drive system, report lower numbers. Factors such as tire pressure, vehicle maintenance, and the type of terrain driven can all impact fuel consumption.

Expect your average MPG to fall somewhere in the range of 18-23 MPG, depending on your specific driving conditions and habits. If you’re consistently getting significantly lower mileage, it’s worth checking your truck’s maintenance schedule and ensuring that your tires are properly inflated.

How it compares

Among its competitors, the 2016 Chevrolet Colorado 4WD 2.5L’s fuel economy is fairly representative of its class. The Toyota Tacoma, for example, similarly equipped with a four-cylinder engine and four-wheel drive, offers comparable figures – around 20 MPG combined. The Nissan Frontier, another contender in the mid-size truck segment, often lags slightly behind in fuel efficiency, typically achieving around 19 MPG combined with its base engine and 4WD. Upgrading to the V6 in any of these trucks will invariably result in lower gas mileage.

For those seeking better fuel economy, rear-wheel-drive versions of these trucks generally offer a slight advantage. For example, the 2016 Chevrolet Colorado 2WD with the same 2.5L engine gets 22 MPG combined. Buyers should also consider the long-term costs of ownership, which include not only fuel but also maintenance and repair. All Chevrolet fuel economy data is readily available online.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Gentle acceleration and smooth braking are key to maximizing fuel economy in any vehicle, and the Colorado is no exception. Avoid “jackrabbit” starts and try to anticipate traffic flow to minimize unnecessary braking. The 2.5L engine responds well to a light foot, so resist the urge to floor the accelerator unless absolutely necessary.

Proper tire inflation can have a significant impact on fuel economy. Check your tires regularly and inflate them to the pressure recommended on the doorjamb sticker. Underinflated tires create more rolling resistance, which reduces MPG. For the Colorado, maintaining the correct tire pressure is especially important, given its relatively heavy weight and truck-like characteristics.

Avoid unnecessary idling. If you’re stopped for more than a minute, it’s generally more fuel-efficient to turn off the engine. Modern vehicles, including the 2016 Colorado, are designed to restart quickly and efficiently. Excessive idling consumes fuel without any benefit, particularly during cold starts when the engine is working harder to reach operating temperature.

Minimize the weight you carry in your truck. Extra cargo adds strain on the engine and reduces fuel economy. Remove any unnecessary items from the bed of the truck and avoid carrying heavy loads unless absolutely necessary. Every pound counts when it comes to maximizing MPG. If you’re interested in further optimizing the efficiency of your vehicle, check out COLORADO MPG across all years to see if there are any common trends or insights that might be relevant to your specific situation.

Regular maintenance is critical. A well-maintained engine is a more efficient engine. Follow the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule, including oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug replacements. Neglecting routine maintenance can lead to decreased fuel economy and potentially more serious mechanical problems.