13 MPG combined isn’t going to win any fuel efficiency awards, but for the 2017 Chevrolet Express 2500 2WD Passenger van with its 6.0L V8, it’s typical. This isn’t a vehicle purchased for its economy; it’s a workhorse. Churches, schools, tour operators, large families, these are the buyers who prioritize passenger capacity and cargo space above all else, accepting the fuel consumption as a necessary cost of doing business or accommodating their needs. They need to move a lot of people and things, and the Express 2500 does just that. It’s about capability first, fuel economy… well, somewhere further down the list.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2017 Chevrolet Express 2500 2WD Passenger 6.0L V8 achieves 11 MPG in the city and 16 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the stop-and-go realities of urban driving, likely made even tougher with a fully loaded van. The highway number is more palatable, but still significantly lower than a modern SUV or minivan.

That 6.0L V8, while strong and reliable, demands its share of fuel, especially when propelling a vehicle that weighs well over two tons. The 6-speed automatic transmission, while offering a degree of refinement, isn’t enough to overcome the inherent inefficiency of a large displacement engine working hard.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2017 Chevrolet Express 2500 2WD Passenger 6.0L V8 to be $3,350. This figure considers 15,000 miles of driving per year, with a mix of city and highway conditions, and uses the national average fuel price at the time of calculation. It’s a stark reminder of the ongoing expenses associated with owning this type of vehicle. While the upfront purchase price might be manageable, the annual fuel bill is a significant factor to consider, especially for budget-conscious organizations like schools or non-profits. This figure should be carefully factored into the overall cost of ownership.

Real-world expectations

Manufacturers’ figures are rarely replicated in the real world. This is even more true for the Express van. How far you keep your foot down and how heavy the load is will significantly affect the MPG you see on the display. With this kind of van, the variation between a driver with a light touch and one with a heavy foot will be very pronounced. Expect to see numbers within a close proximity of the EPA ratings but be aware that it’s very easy to go below those estimates with a heavy load or a driver who puts the engine under too much stress.

How it compares

Compared to other full-size vans, the 2017 Chevrolet Express 2500 2WD Passenger 6.0L V8’s fuel economy is largely in line with its competitors. For example, the Ford Transit 150 with its 3.7L V6 engine managed a slightly better, but still un-spectacular, 14 MPG combined when similarly configured with passenger seating. A Ram ProMaster 1500 with its 3.6L V6 comes in at around 16 MPG combined. These small variances rarely sway buyers in this segment.

Rather, capability, reliability and cost are more important than a single MPG. However, for those who are keen to compare EXPRESS MPG across all years, you can find more detailed information on our site. And for a broader look at fuel figures, you can also browse all Chevrolet fuel economy data.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Aggressive acceleration and braking are fuel economy killers in any vehicle, but especially so in a heavy van like the Express 2500. Anticipate traffic flow and maintain a steady speed whenever possible. Gently ease onto the accelerator and brake smoothly to minimize fuel consumption.

Keep your tires properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and burn more fuel. Check your tire pressure regularly and maintain the recommended inflation level listed on the tire placard.

Reduce unnecessary weight inside the van. Hauling extra cargo that isn’t needed adds to the vehicle’s overall weight, diminishing fuel economy. Remove any items that aren’t essential for the journey to lighten the load.

Consider the route you take. Planning your route in advance to avoid congested city streets and opting for highways with less stop-and-go traffic can improve fuel efficiency. A GPS navigation system can help you find the most efficient route to your destination.

Maintain your vehicle with regular servicing. A well-maintained engine runs more efficiently. This means getting regular oil changes, checking air filters, and addressing any mechanical issues promptly. A tune-up can restore lost fuel economy.