13 MPG combined isn’t going to impress anyone looking for lower fuel costs. The 2015 Chevrolet Express 2500 2WD Passenger van is about hauling people and their gear, and doing it reliably for years. This van is a workhorse, plain and simple, and fuel economy is often a secondary concern for those who need it.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2015 Chevrolet Express 2500 2WD Passenger with the 4.8L V8 are 11 MPG in the city and 17 MPG on the highway. These numbers reflect the van’s inherent compromises. The city figure suffers from the constant stop-and-go driving and the van’s weight, with the engine working to get it moving from a standstill. The highway figure is slightly better, but still nothing to brag about. Wind resistance and the engine maintaining speed with a heavy load affect this. The six-speed automatic transmission helps optimize efficiency, but physics do play a role in the final MPG.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the estimated annual fuel cost for this version of the Express van is $3,350. This figure assumes 15,000 miles of driving per year and is based on the national average fuel price at the time of calculation. If you drive more miles, or if fuel prices increase, expect this number to increase. This is a reality for those who rely on this van, but it’s a predictable expense they often factor into their operating costs. Understanding and budgeting for the EXPRESS MPG across all years can be incredibly beneficial.

Real-world expectations

EPA estimates provide a baseline, but real-world fuel economy can vary depending on driving habits, load, terrain, and maintenance. A heavily loaded van driven aggressively in hilly terrain will see lower MPG than an empty van driven conservatively on flat roads. Tire pressure, regular maintenance, and avoiding excessive idling will contribute to the best possible fuel economy. If you frequently tow with this van, expect a drop in MPG.

How it compares

The fuel economy of the 2015 Chevrolet Express 2500 is best viewed alongside its competitors. The Ford Transit 250 with its base 3.7L V6 gets around 14 MPG combined, and a Ram ProMaster 2500 with its 3.6L V6 achieves roughly the same. These numbers are slightly better than the Express, highlighting that large, utilitarian vans are inherently thirsty vehicles. A smaller, more fuel-efficient minivan will achieve significantly better MPG, but it won’t offer the same cargo and passenger capacity. For example, the Chrysler Town & Country minivan could get around 20 MPG combined, but someone needing the space of the Express would never cross-shop it with a minivan. Anyone researching Chevrolet fuel economy data should bear in mind the tradeoffs between capability and efficiency. The decision comes down to prioritizing needs versus fuel costs.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Gentle acceleration and braking are critical for maximizing fuel economy in a vehicle like the Express. Avoid sudden bursts of speed and anticipate stops to minimize hard braking, as this van requires a lot of energy to get moving and bring to a halt. Gradual changes in speed will conserve fuel.

Proper tire inflation is essential. Check your tire pressures regularly and maintain them at the recommended levels, which can be found on the driver’s side doorjamb. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance and reduce fuel economy.

Minimize idling, If you’re going to be stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. Idling consumes fuel without moving the vehicle, which is important in stop-and-go traffic.

Consider reducing the overall weight the van carries. Hauling unnecessary cargo will negatively impact fuel economy, so remove any items you don’t need. Lessening the load will make it easier on the engine.

Stay on top of preventative maintenance. Regular oil changes, air filter replacements, and tune-ups will keep the engine running efficiently. A well-maintained engine consumes less fuel and performs better.