15 MPG combined is a stark number, but it’s crucial to understand the 2018 Chevrolet Colorado Cab Chassis 2WD 3.6L 6-cyl is not intended as a fuel-sipping commuter. This is a bare-bones work truck, often purchased by businesses and municipalities who prioritize upfront cost and customization over efficiency. Buyers in this segment accept the fuel economy penalty because the configurable chassis allows it to be easily upfitted for specific tasks, landscaping, plumbing, electrical work, you name it.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2018 Colorado Cab Chassis 2WD 3.6L earns 15 MPG in both city and highway driving, a rare instance of parity. This speaks to the realities of how this vehicle is used. Stop-and-go city routes involve idling and frequent acceleration, both fuel-intensive actions. Surprisingly, the highway number matches, likely because this chassis cab configuration is often heavily loaded with equipment, tools, and materials, negating any potential highway fuel savings. The 8-speed automatic transmission does its best to keep the engine in its sweet spot, but physics ultimately win.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the annual fuel cost for this Colorado Cab Chassis is estimated at exactly $2,900. This calculation is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Of course, your actual fuel expenses will deviate based on your local fuel prices, your individual driving habits, the specific weight and aerodynamic impact of your selected upfit, and how often you let the truck idle. $2,900 gives you a solid baseline to understand the cost of ownership from a fuel perspective. If you are putting far more than 15,000 miles per year on the truck, or you know you will be dealing with higher prices, that number will increase significantly.

Real-world expectations

Forget the EPA sticker once you start using this truck as intended. A heavy load, constant stop-and-go, and long idle times will undoubtedly drag down the real-world MPG. Consider also that many of these trucks are used by multiple drivers, and that driver behavior can have a massive impact on efficiency. Regularly review fuel usage, and counsel your drivers on best practices, smooth acceleration, eliminating unnecessary idling, and keeping tires properly inflated. The 3.6L V6 is a proven and reliable engine, but it will reward a gentle foot and suffer from abuse.

How it compares

The Colorado Cab Chassis doesn’t have direct competitors in the traditional sense, as it occupies a unique niche. However, those considering a similar type of work vehicle might look at full-size trucks with similar upfitting potential. For example, the 2018 Ford F-150 XL with the 3.3L V6 and 2WD is rated at 22 MPG combined, a significant improvement. The Ram 1500 Tradesman from the same year with the 3.6L V6 and 2WD achieves around 20 MPG combined. What these full-size trucks offer in fuel economy, they potentially sacrifice in maneuverability and ease of parking in tight urban environments, advantages of the Colorado. Buyers must weigh fuel costs against the specific needs of their business.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Regular maintenance is critical. The 3.6L V6 responds well to fresh spark plugs, clean air filters, and properly lubricated components. Stick to the manufacturer’s recommended service intervals, and don’t skimp on quality parts.

Tire pressure is often overlooked, but it’s a massive contributor to fuel economy, especially when hauling heavy loads. Check and adjust tire pressure regularly to the pressure listed on the tire placard, usually found on the driver’s side door jamb. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance and reduce fuel efficiency.

Driving style matters more than you might think. Avoid aggressive acceleration and hard braking. Maintain a steady speed, and look ahead to anticipate traffic flow. The 8-speed automatic will smoothly shift to the right gear if you give it a chance. Sudden bursts of acceleration are extremely costly in terms of fuel consumption.

Minimize idling. This is particularly relevant for a work truck that often sits on job sites. If you need to leave the truck running for short periods, keep it brief. Idling burns fuel without covering any distance, and the 3.6 V6 is not particularly frugal when stationary.

Consider the aerodynamic impact of the upfit. Some upfits, like tall service bodies, can significantly increase drag and reduce fuel economy. Evaluate different upfit options and choose designs that minimize wind resistance, if possible. Even a slight improvement in aerodynamics can have a noticeable impact over thousands of miles.

Interested in seeing the all Chevrolet fuel economy data? Or perhaps you’re researching specific COLORADO MPG across all years?