25 MPG combined isn’t going to win any awards for lower fuel costs, but for the 2016 Chevrolet City Express Cargo Van 2.0L, it’s a perfectly acceptable figure. Let’s be honest, no one buys a compact cargo van hoping for Prius-like efficiency. The City Express exists to haul tools, equipment, and deliver packages efficiently around town, prioritizing utility over fuel sipping. This is a workhorse, not a show pony, and its fuel economy reflects that.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2016 City Express at 24 MPG in the city and 26 MPG on the highway. These numbers are fairly close, reflecting the van’s intended use case: urban and suburban deliveries. The 2.0L 4-cylinder engine, coupled with its continuously variable transmission (CVT), is tuned for low-end torque and smooth acceleration, ideal for navigating stop-and-go traffic. The CVT, while not always the most exciting transmission, helps keep the engine in its sweet spot for fuel efficiency, especially at lower speeds. Don’t expect quick acceleration, but it gets the job done without excessive fuel consumption. The slightly higher highway MPG suggests it’s reasonably efficient for longer runs, but its boxy shape inherently limits its aerodynamic efficiency at higher speeds.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2016 Chevrolet City Express at $1,750. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits, the type of driving you do, and local fuel prices. For example, if you primarily use the City Express for short trips in heavy traffic, your fuel costs could be higher. If you do a lot of highway driving, you might see lower yearly fuel expenses than the EPA’s estimate. This $1,750 estimate allows business owners to get a realistic understanding of the fuel budget required for this vehicle.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a useful benchmark, real-world fuel economy often differs. The 2016 City Express is typically loaded with cargo, which impacts its fuel consumption, particularly in city driving. Aggressive driving habits, such as rapid acceleration and hard braking, will also negatively affect fuel economy. However, careful and consistent driving, coupled with regular maintenance, can help you achieve numbers closer to the EPA estimates. A fully loaded van making frequent stops will inevitably see lower MPG than an empty van cruising on the highway. Plan routes and budget fuel costs accounting for this.

How it compares

Compared to other small cargo vans, the 2016 Chevrolet City Express offers competitive fuel economy. The Ford Transit Connect, with its 2.5L 4-cylinder engine, achieves around 24 MPG combined. The Nissan NV200, which shares many components with the City Express, offers similar fuel economy numbers, hovering around 25 MPG combined. The Ram ProMaster City, with its 2.4L 4-cylinder engine, comes in slightly lower, at around 24 MPG combined. Buyers considering these vans often prioritize cargo capacity, maneuverability, and price, sacrificing higher fuel efficiency for practicality. For those buyers, similar CITY MPG across all years and competing models is important.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The 2016 Chevrolet City Express isn’t designed for hypermiling, but you can still optimize its fuel efficiency. Regular maintenance is key. Ensure the tires are properly inflated, the engine is tuned, and the air filter is clean. These simple steps can prevent unnecessary fuel consumption.

Avoid unnecessary idling. The 2.0L engine consumes fuel even when the van is stationary. If you anticipate being stopped for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine. This can add up to significant fuel savings, especially during deliveries.

Drive smoothly and anticipate traffic flow. Avoid sudden acceleration and hard braking. Gradual acceleration and maintaining a consistent speed minimize fuel consumption. Use the van’s momentum to your advantage by coasting when possible.

Minimize cargo weight whenever possible. Unnecessary weight increases fuel consumption, especially in city driving. Remove any tools or equipment that are not needed for the day’s tasks. This is particularly important if the vehicle is regularly loaded to near its maximum payload.

Pay attention to weather conditions. Strong headwinds can significantly decrease fuel economy, especially at highway speeds. Consider adjusting your speed or route to minimize the impact of headwinds. Also, avoid using the air conditioning excessively, as it places an extra load on the engine.

While the 2016 City Express may not be the most fuel-efficient vehicle on the road, it provides a practical and affordable solution for businesses needing a compact cargo van. Understanding its strengths and weaknesses, and implementing these simple tips, can help maximize its fuel efficiency and minimize operating costs along with all Chevrolet fuel economy data.