The 2016 Chevrolet Colorado 2WD with its 2.8L Duramax diesel and automatic transmission achieves a combined 25 MPG, a figure that is perfectly acceptable to the type of driver who buys this specific truck. These are people who need a capable pickup for work or weekend hobbies but don’t want the bulk, or the fuel bills, of a full-size rig. They understand they’re buying a tool, and this tool sips fuel compared to the alternatives.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2016 Colorado 2WD diesel achieves 22 MPG in the city and a more impressive 30 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the realities of stop-and-go driving, where the diesel’s heavier weight and the stop/start system (if equipped) are constantly at odds. The highway number highlights the benefit of the diesel’s torque. It allows for relaxed cruising at highway speeds, keeping engine RPMs low and maximizing fuel efficiency. Knowing how and where you intend to drive the Colorado will ultimately determine if those numbers can be achieved.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates an annual fuel cost of $2,250 for the 2016 Chevrolet Colorado 2WD 2.8L diesel. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Of course, the actual cost will vary depending on your driving habits and local diesel prices. Someone who primarily uses their Colorado for short trips around town will likely see a higher annual fuel cost, while someone who does a lot of highway driving may see a lower one. Remember to budget for increased fuel costs if you plan on heavy towing.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a useful benchmark, real-world fuel economy can vary significantly. Several factors influence fuel consumption, including driving style, terrain, weather conditions, and vehicle maintenance. Aggressive acceleration, high speeds, and towing heavy loads will all decrease fuel economy. Conversely, smooth, consistent driving and regular maintenance, such as proper tire inflation and clean air filters, can help you get closer to the EPA estimates. Owners often report seeing highway figures at or above 30 MPG when driving conservatively, but city driving often falls short of the 22 MPG estimate.

How it compares

The 2016 Colorado’s diesel fuel economy is a definite selling point within its segment. The gasoline-powered 2016 Colorado with the 3.6L V6, for comparison, is rated at 18 MPG combined. A similarly aged Toyota Tacoma, another popular mid-size truck, typically achieves around 20-21 MPG combined with its V6 engine. Even the smaller Nissan Frontier struggles to match the Colorado diesel’s efficiency, landing around 19 MPG combined. For prospective buyers needing a work-capable truck that also does well on the open road, especially those who are loyal and check all Chevrolet fuel economy data before buying, the Colorado diesel is an obvious choice. You can assess COLORADO MPG across all years to gain an even better understanding of the model’s fuel economy history.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The 2.8L Duramax diesel delivers its best fuel economy at lower RPMs. Avoid aggressive acceleration and try to maintain a smooth, steady pace, especially on the highway. This will help the engine stay within its optimal efficiency range.

Tire pressure plays a crucial role in fuel economy. Check your tires regularly and inflate them to the recommended pressure listed on the doorjamb sticker. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which reduces fuel efficiency.

The 6-speed automatic transmission is programmed to shift for optimal fuel economy. Avoid using manual shift modes unless you have a specific reason to do so, such as when towing or driving in challenging terrain. Let the transmission do its job to maximize efficiency.

Minimize idling whenever possible. Diesel engines are less efficient when idling than gasoline engines, so avoid unnecessary idling to conserve fuel. Turn off the engine when stopped and waiting for extended periods.

Keep up with regularly scheduled maintenance, including oil changes, air filter replacements, and fuel filter replacements. A well-maintained engine runs more efficiently, which translates to better fuel economy. Paying attention to service intervals will pay dividends at the pump.